Chapter 17: A Hero's Journey
Percy POV, Camp Half-Blood
One Month Later
October had come without him even realizing it. The remnant of warmth that still persisted in the air was gone. Now there was nothing but the cold. Maybe it was Earth's way of mourning the current devastation.
Chaos had shattered the United States, it would not even be accurate to call it a civil war. It is just anarchy. The work of Desmos and Phobos, the twins of panic and fear. Or maybe it was just a wider extension of the conflict erupting in the demigod world.
Now was the time, while the city was still burning. The titans would put the city to sleep using the power of Hypnos and subsequently lay siege to it. Olympus would fall.
Monster armies were gathered, the hundred or so demigods in Camp were readied. From what he had heard so were the Romans. It was war, and this time the chance of avoiding casualties was slim. Monsters were rather weak and ineffective, they were a smokescreen for the demigods only.
As for the demigods, this month had been barely enough time to outfit them with proper equipment. They looked more like a professional army now, reflecting their Greek roots. With the incredulous help of Pallas, he had trained them as best he could.
Training consisted of rehearsing battle formations, alongside familiarizing the demigods with a chain of command.
He had dug up old Greek military tradition, the phalanx primarily. With that came the particulars of the training, 'othismos' – roughly translated as 'the push of shields' was one. It was a way to make the phalanx denser by having those in it push their shields to the backs of their fellow soldiers.
Deep in the attic of the Big House, he had even uncovered documents pertaining to the first Demigod Civil War. An occasion where the Greeks and Roman demigods fought each other in a bloody battle, something he had learned after Prometheus revealed their existence.
It revealed that dense formations were the key to countering Roman legions. With it, the Greeks had beat back the Romans, albeit with a pyrrhic victory. Considered incorporation of Godly power would make sure a slaughter like that would not happen again.
He had heated debates with some of the other demigods over the matter. But eventually, they came to a clear resolution on their battle tactics.
Children of Ares would make up the vanguard force. Not because of Percy's personal hatred toward their father, but because they were the most spirited for combat. Their extreme stamina and mastery over weapons would destroy the spirit of the Romans. At least in theory.
Behind them would be a conglomeration of children of Hecate and Hermes. Hermes demigods who lacked fighting skills would make up the med-evac squadron, transporting injured soldiers toward the backline.
As the attack was planned to occur during the night the Children of Hecate were handpicked by who was the most capable in combat. Unlike most demigods, their skills differed greatly, with some having an aptitude for more support oriented abilities. Hannah was an example of that, her healing abilities awed even Apollo campers.
But Alabaster was unmatched in terms of raw skill. He had learned what seemed to be hundreds of spells, collecting them all in the notebook always at his side. His role was to lead and command his half-brothers and sisters. He knew their strengths and weaknesses far better than Percy ever could.
As for the other ranks, they were made up of other combat readied demigods. Apollo campers made up the backline, being both the fire support and medics.
All in all, everything was carefully considered. The army would go in behind a large horde of monsters, the plan being to exhaust the Romans with the monster hordes.
Victory would be theirs. Percy could finally see Olympus fall before his feet.
Destroying Ares was his true goal in the battle. To show him that he was no longer that defenseless young child, but a monster. A monster he created.
Anticipation filling him from head to toes he returned his attention to his external reality. Inside the Big House was where he was left in silent contemplation. He had come here to look for any more documents about the war before they marched on the city.
The centaur that had run the camp before refused to speak to them about it. After he was taken away along with Artemis on Kronos's orders, they were left with no time to extract information from him through 'extra-curricular' means.
As he was rummaging through a dusty collection of miscellaneous items that looked to be a decade or so old he suddenly felt a cold chill run down his spine. It was recognizably different from the usual chill that permeated through the air.
His eyes narrowed, peeking through the darkness as they came over what he instinctively felt to be the source of the strange energy.
The Oracle.
Her mummified corpse sat on a wooden chair, leaned forward. Cautiously he arose from his crouching position and walked toward it, compelled by some strange sense of fate.
Now only a foot away, the Oracle's head suddenly jerked upward. Its eyes glowing blue. From its slightly agape jaw erupted a green vapor. Percy looked at it in awe, his eyes meeting its.
"|A sea of souls shall be taken as toll.
A life revoked and prophecy undone.
A hero arisen to choose life or death.
Progeny of Olympus gathered to face their final test.
Against time they shall fight a war that cannot be won.
The death of Fate shall be the final law.|"
Percy's eyes widened as he found himself taking a step back.
What was this? A prophecy?
He was told the Oracle stopped giving out prophecies. So why did she did do it now?
Realization hitting him he quickly scrambled toward a collection of notebooks sitting inside a cardboard box. Taking a pencil from a convenient pile of writing utensils he wrote down what the Oracle said.
Trusting his memory was not a viable option, it was known to be decieving. His heart beat intensely as he looked back at the mummified corpse over his shoulder. It was back in the state it had been earlier, limp and slumped over.
He stared at it, entering a trance as he repeated the words of the prophecy over and over in his mind.
This was not something insignificant. It was important beyond his comprehension, a fact he warily realized. Whatever it meant, he did not know.
Then a sharp and familiar voice broke him from his thoughts.
"Percy?"
His eyes widened as he quickly put the paper into his coat pocket. When he saw that the voice was Alabaster's he let out a relieved exhale.
The Son of Hecate eyed the Oracle with a jerked brow, "Is it just me or is there some sort of energy coming off her?"
Percy ran a finger through his raven black hair.
"There was," he admitted, somewhat apprehensive. "It gave me a prophecy."
Alabaster's eyes widened as he turned his gaze toward Percy, "Prophecy? What was it?"
Percy walked toward him, digging the crumpled paper from his coat. After straightening it out he handed it over to Alabaster, who read it over with an intense expression.
"Percy," Alabaster said, a strange emotion layering his voice. "This is big, really big. I don't know what in the Hades it means but I know it isn't anything small."
He nodded grimly, "I know. Do me a favor and don't tell anyone about this, now isn't the time to be distracted."
Alabaster nodded, giving the paper back to him.
"Maybe we should ask my mother about this after the battle, she might know."
Percy shook his head, "Hecate has all but vanished. Only the titans have spoken to her, I don't know what your mothers been up to. I think it'd be best to keep this between us, seeing as Luke is no longer around."
The last sentence made a pang of hurt go through his body. He missed Luke a lot, not just because in his absence he was given full responsibility over the demigods. But because he was like a brother to him.
Maybe he should have stopped him. That is something he will always regret. But the look in his eyes and the sound of his voice that day stopped him. Everyone must make their own decisions, else they wouldn't be truly living.
"You're right," Alabaster uncomfortably conceded. "I don't know what is happening with my mom, we use to talk nightly. But now..."
Percy nodded, understanding the hint of pain lingering in his voice. Whatever was happening with Hecate he doubted it was good, she was hard to understand. Everything she did seemed like it was for some wider purpose.
At first he believed it all was so he would join the titans, but her recent behavior made wonder. Her apprehension at the fact he saved Calypso, the obvious change in demeanor she exhibited around him.
It was all so strange.
But that didn't matter now, what mattered was the war at their doorstep.
"I didn't find any more documents about the Civil War. Either they are very well hidden our that journal is all we have."
Alabaster shrugged, "Likely was the only one. I doubt they'd want to keep anything around that could expose the existence of the Romans. All it would take is one Son of Hermes snooping around."
"Yeah, we should count ourselves lucky we even found the Journal," Percy agreed, suddenly changing the subject. "Since you came looking for me down here I assume the campers are ready to march?"
Alabaster nodded in affirmation, "Yep, at least on a surface level."
Percy inhaled in anticipation, "Well, we can't ask any more of them. Let us go, we shouldn't keep the Manhattan waiting."
Percy POV, New York City
The crisp air of the chilly October night nibbled at his exposed flesh. If only it was a beast, he lamented. At least then he could slay it and relieve himself of the discomfort it wrought. If only all his problems could be cut down with a blade.
Even though there were many that existed beyond a blade's reach, Olympus was not one. With the entire city asleep the eve of battle was awaiting them.
Following the plan laid out by the titans, they had spread their forces spread their forces across the entrance to Manhattan. Trouble occurred though as it was found out that the Olympians had decided to destroy all the bridges leading into the city.
Unable to take Olympus by aerial means they would have to take it on the ground. So the true conflict here would be gaining dominance over the East River.
And frankly it already looked like a battle had taken place in the streets. Pavement was dislodged, fires were strewn around. The result of the protests that had engulfed the city in the months before.
"What do you think Percy, what is the plan?" Questioned Malcolm to his side. They alongside a handful of other demigods had secured the Midtown tunnel, making sure Olympus was not planning any sneak attacks on their main camp.
Taken away from his thoughts he turned his attention toward the Son of Athena. They had formed what could be considered a friendship over the last month. In a way he reminded him of Luke, maybe due to them both being blonde. As superficial as that sounded.
He looked toward the large map stretched across the fold-out table in front of him. His pointer finger fell on the diamond district on New York.
"The Monsters under the command of the Titan's are stationed in the Lincoln Tunnel to the west. Alabaster and the bulk of the demigod army are encamped on Roosevelt Island. We didn't expect them to go as far as to blow up the bridges, so a direct attack will have to wait. Oceanus and his army will meet the Atlantean force in the Upper Bay. Their success is important, we need to control the rivers."
"So we can't find another way across?" Malcolm questioned.
Percy shook his head, "They blew up the bridges with calculated intent. It's likely a trap, I wouldn't doubt they have some sort of explosives waiting for us on the few crossings still left."
Malcolm blinked, his face somewhat mesmerized. Not even he realized that possibility.
"I see, so you'll help Oceanus in winning control over the bay so our speedboats can move across freely."
"That's exactly right," Percy nodded, pausing for a moment before he continued. "Then we'll burn Olympus to the ground."
He spoke with a chilling tone, envisioning the sweet taste that will enter his mouth at the sight of Olympus's halls in ruin. Finally he could fulfill his quest for revenge. Now was the time, he could not let it escape him.
Retracting his attention from the map in front of him he turned his gaze toward the river that flowed not so far away. He could feel the forces of both old and new Atlantis gathering. It was far away, yet still so close.
"If you see any sign of demigods report the movement to Alabaster immediately. I'm going to rally with Oceanus's forces now."
Malcolm nodded, "Good luck Apollyon."
The Son of Poseidon smirked, "If we survive this start calling me Percy."
Malcolm grinned toothily and nodded.
Percy POV, New York City, Upper Bay
When he made it to the shoreline he had been met by an armored merperson, sent by Oceanus to guide him in his mission. It was, as he had been told a task of assassination. While Oceanus led an assault on Atlantis's underwater fortifications he'd go after their general.
Triton, Percy's half-brother, as well as the sole heir of Atlantis was apparently put in charge of the entire army by their father for this fight. The God of the Sea himself was needed to combat the disastrous odds Olympus was currently facing.
Seeing as new Atlantis outnumbered the old by a large margin they were confident in their supposed victory. They also had the advantage of preparing in advance for their foes attack.
But Percy would never dream of passing up a chance at destroying those who served his father. The man who had abandoned him and let his mother die was on his list of those he wanted to ruthlessly torture.
What would be a more devastating blow then knowing your prized son and heir was killed ruthlessly?
"My lord," bubbled the Merperson before him. "The heir of the usurper is beyond this expanse, below the great statue."
Percy narrowed his eyes as he took cover behind a large boulder, using his power over the ocean to improve his vision. There was a long trench a mile or so away, manning it were a few hundred merpeople.
It was a large army, one that could have a large impact on the Battle of Manhattan if victorious here.
Looking toward where his companion had beckoned toward he was somewhat surprised to see above them the towering sight of the Statue of Liberty. Positioned in between a few other large rocks was a large blue colored tent. Perfectly nestled where approaching it without being noticed was an impossible venture.
"I don't take it Triton goes for strolls?" Percy jeered slightly.
The merman didn't seem to find humor in his comment, taking it at face value.
"From our intelligence reports he never leaves the palace. So I do not believe that to be the case."
Percy chuckled, "Too bad for us."
"Do not worry my Lord, soon the conch shell will be blown and the invasion will begin."
He nodded, turning his gaze back toward the frontline. It was an impressive set up they had. They'd essentially turned the shallow waters of the Upper Bay it's a defensive valley. Not that it would matter, lack of leadership would destroy their ranks.
As time passed, Percy wondered if Oceanus's army had lost their will. As he was about to inquire on the long wait to the merman standing next to him, he was interrupted.
A loud shrill screech erupted through the waters. It was like the mating call of some extinct megalithic beast.
Percy's eyes widened as he saw over the horizon a sudden line of darkness set it. The mermen on Atlantis's side immediately scrambled around, some yelling orders. Before they could get into their proper positions a long tentacle emerged from the darkness of the sea, grabbing a merman on the front lines.
He was dragged into Hades knows where as a long line of ranked merpersons emerged from the darkness, marching in ranks.
"Go time?" Percy questioned.
The merman nodded, "If you mean it is time for our mission to be put into action then yes. It is time."
Percy reached for his blade, using his super-speed under the sea to accelerate forward. His sword in hand he made a b-line to the command tent, not wasting time to see if the merman was behind him.
A trail of bubbles followed him as he suddenly stopped, now just in front of the tent's entrance. Two mermen guarding it looked at him in surprise, sharing confused gazes.
"You…" One started.
Percy brought down Bloodtide in a diagonal arc, slicing through the exposed chink in the guard's armor. This caused the other one to charge at him, but he met a similar fate.
Two elite mermen were downed within a blink of an eye. Percy could feel his predator instincts gushing through him like a wild sea. They wanted desperately to be unleashed. Blood rose from the bodies of the mermen upwards, carried by the iron inside it.
Then a voice spoke up as the entrance to the tent was opened.
"What is…?"
He saw his prey. Long raven black hair, a look that resembled a merman in every way. Except instead of having one tail, he had two. Golden armor adorned his upper body and he held a trident in his left hand.
It was Triton, his 'brother'.
Not leaving time for conversation he thrust his blade forward, causing a look of surprise to cross Trition's face. The prince barely had enough time to block the strike as another was brought down on him.
Thrusting forward he gained enough time to escape from the lock Percy had gotten him in.
"You!" Triton roared hotly as he repositioned himself a foot or so away. "Who are you?"
Percy narrowed his darkened eyes, "I am an echo of the past."
An intense wave shot around him as he flew forward, this time attacking Triton with all the strength he could muster. A shockwave emitted as the dark-red of his blade met the bright gold of his half-brother's trident.
"You're not a mermen, maybe a Son of a Minor God?"
Soon Triton realized his words could lead him to an early grave, as he clumsily blocked a series of attacks. He shoved his free hand forward, palm first. Behind Percy, he could feel an upcoming entity.
Turning his head slightly he saw it was a great white shark, likely summoned by Triton. Copying the movement Triton had done earlier he stopped it, making his half-brother's eyes widen.
"That isn't possible! The creatures of the sea are under my command!"
Anger flashed in Triton's eyes as he moved forward, attempting to skewer Percy. Even with the insane speed, he had in the sea, it was not enough to catch him.
Percy sidestepped the attack, bringing down Bloodtide onto Triton again. Where sparks should have flew bubbles instead appeared as their weapons met each other in standstill.
"Your father never told you of me?" Percy jeered, having it in his mind to play with Trition's emotions so he would make a mistake.
Triton frowned, "What are you speaking of curr? My father would never parlay with such a reprehensible land walker."
Percy chuckled, "Maybe it is better you die in ignorance then."
He kicked the bottom of Triton's trident with the side of his shoe, causing the block he had to be broken. Bloodtide slid forward naturally, it's speed quickened by forethought manipulation of the water.
Triton tried to slow it but his attempts proved too weak. A loud scream was let out as the blade passed through his cheek, creating a shallow wound. It would have gone through his skull if not for a quick dodge.
Rushing back he held the injury with his right hand, shock on his face. Percy's calculated attack proved too quick for him to counter, even with dominion over the waters.
"How can you control the seas better than me? I have trained all my life!" Triton growled, frustration erupting from his lips like a volcano.
"You've never left the palace, have you? Never seen what was like beyond the sea. How can you claim to control something if you don't even know what exists beyond it? Your connection to the sea is just superficial, you don't understand it at all, Prince."
Rage appeared on Trition's face, he beckoned toward the shield of one of the down merman guards. It flew toward his hand in seconds, and as it did he rushed forward. A loud battle cry escaped his lips.
Percy let him take the offensive, blocking his attempts to impale and stab him with a scientific rhythm. Even Triton seemed to realize he was being played with.
Enraged, his attacks seemed to gain twice the speed. Their bout soon spilled over toward the main conflict, where mermen were engaged in a bloody battle for the sea. Tens of mermen were caught in the whirlwind that surrounded the fighting Sons of Poseidon.
Percy believing he adequately memorized Triton's technique decided to turn the momentum back onto him. Dodging under a quick stab he grabbed the trident just under the three-pronged stock.
A look of terror crossed Triton's face as he realized he had overreached, becoming too comfortable in his attacks. With an intent that promised death Bloodtide flew toward him. Now the prince had no way to dodge.
His eyes closed as Bloodtide cut cleanly through his dominant hand. When they opened again, surprised he was alive, it took a few moments for him to ascertain the damage.
When he realized his hand was cut off, he let out a loud guttural cry. It was like a school kid who had been pushed over by a bully. Tears poked from the corners of his eyes as he fell onto the ground.
"HOW?!" He roared. "I TRAINED ALL MY LIFE. I AM A PRINCE, YOU ARE NOTHING!"
Percy's eyes narrowed as he stared down on the pathetic form of his half-brother. Bloodtide was aimed at his throat. Around him mermen stopped fighting, mesmerized by their duel.
"That's right. You are a prince, and I am nothing. That is why I have won."
With that he delivered a final blow, cutting Triton's head off in a single stroke. He rose the blood-red garnet on his ring toward his corpse. An etheric red energy exploded from Triton, part of his energy was consumed. But not all of it, as doing that was too intensive.
Poseidon was now heirless, it could take Triton hundreds of years to reform, if at all. Percy, a mere bastard had killed the true Son of Poseidon.
Around him loud cheers erupted, mermen on Poseidon's side threw their weapons onto the floor at the sight of Triton's loss. Their fighting spirit was entirely deadened. Percy was victorious, and by extension so was Oceanus.
Mermen on Oceanus's side began to roar out cheers. They slammed their weapons into their spears, making a loud symphony that carried itself through shallow Upper Bay.
Percy was surrounded on every side by mermen, celebrating his victory with gleeful looks on their faces.
Poseidon, something told him that the God knew of what had just transpired. It was only a thought, but he had learned long ago to not discount his thoughts.
Percy POV, New York City, Roosevelt Island
Percy stood at the head of the demigod army, his eyes narrowed at the eerily empty streets before them. Demigods had begun to be pooled over East River using speed boats. Since they only had four of them it was going to take a few trips.
Victory in the Upper Bay secured the passage for them, making the Olympians destruction of the bridges pointless.
Though he could feel an inkling of fatigue setting in, it was not enough to impede him. The battle was not as hard as he feared it would be. Maybe that was due to it being underwater, where he naturally regenerated energy.
Either way, he had enough in reserve to not fear running out any time soon. The pure thrill of finally marching against Olympus was enough to stimulate him further if need be.
"Hey."
A voice came from behind him, interrupting his scenic view of the river below. He tilted his head to see Hannah, a face he hadn't seen in a while.
"Hannah? What is it, need me to go over your mission again?"
She shook her head, "No, just saw you acting like a loner over here. What's wrong, cold feet?"
Ignoring her insult he shook his head.
"No, just thinking about something that happened earlier. Nothing for you to worry about."
"You mean what happened in the Upper Bay?" She asked, moving closer and invading his personal space.
Percy took a step away, causing her to pout.
"Something before that. It's nothing for you to worry about, just get ready to cross."
With that he walked past her, ignoring her advances. He did not know if she was seductive by nature or if it was a side she only showed to him. If her feelings were real then he could never return them.
His heart belonged to somebody else, or at least he thought it did. Love was not a course Pallas ever taught him in.
Hannah followed him as he made his way toward the returning speedboats. He gave a slight nod to the demigod manning it, taking a seat. This trip would bring over the last of the demigods.
Alabaster had gone first so he could organize their ranks in advance. It was nice to have him around, he was a useful asset and a good friend.
Hannah shrewdly took a seat next to him as their speedboat crossed the river. Percy was silent, and the intense look on his face showed that he wanted it to stay that way. He looked past the empty streets, where strangely enough there was a large number of cars. More than he thought would be here.
It sort of worried him, a part of him did not want more mortals to die. Maybe it was due to his growing ability of empathy, something he had long since lost. He didn't know exactly, it was not something he was used to struggling with.
As the speedboat docked on the opposite side of the bay he exited with a serious look on his face. It was no longer a time to play games, battle, the true battle was anxiously waiting for their arrival. All they had to do now was wait for an iris message from Kronos.
His feet met the cool cement of New York's river bay. To his right was a large plant with a large cement tower. Alabaster had corralled the demigods in its wide parking lot, mostly devoid of cars.
About to make his way over, he was suddenly interrupted by a voice. It spoke with a loud and firm tone. A hint of familiarity was in it, one he could barely pick up on.
Turning his head he saw a shimmering visage of Luke just above the water. No—not Luke, the shining golden irises told him that it was Kronos.
"Lord Kronos, do we march?" Percy asked, his expression hardening like clay.
The image nodded, a devilish smirk upon its face.
"We do. Rejoice Apollyon, soon there will be rivers of blood and ichor. Fight well and your wildest dreams will be granted to you after this fight."
Percy wryly nodded. Fighting for materialistic pleasure was not his goal, though it would not be wise to back talk Kronos over such a small detail.
"I will lead the demigods to victory, my Lord," Percy affirmed, turning his gaze toward the encampment. Luke's face had started to disturb him. Like a ghost he could feel Luke staring back at him, asking him why he did not talk him out of it.
"Good, our army is a thousand strong. Move the demigods in now and rally behind our strike. The Titans are ready to lay siege to Olympus themselves."
Percy nodded, suppressing his surprise that the Titans themselves would be fighting. The destruction that could occur as a side effect could be massive. But he would be a hypocrite if he were to complain about something like that.
Luke's face slowly was consumed by the flowing river, the misty message had gone. Kronos's devilish smile persisted in his mind though.
At times he wondered if this was truly his fate. To follow Kronos, one no less evil than the Olympians. He had never thought of it before he had gotten the prophecy. Kronos was a means for him to fulfill his vengeance, therefore he always overlooked his obvious evil nature.
Evil. Was he himself evil?
No. Now was not the time to think about good and evil. War needed to be the only thing allowed room in his psyche.
Forcing a stoic expression onto his face he turned toward the demigods, beginning a cold march toward them.
He swore that the beating of his heart sounded like a drum of war.
Percy POV, Fifth Avenue NYC
Like an orchestra the sounds of monsters and soldiers marching echoed through the empty streets of New York.
A direct assault on the Empire State Building, that was the plan. From afar the look of the Roman blockades was blocked by the swarm of Kronos's beastly forces.
Cyclopes, hellhounds, empousai. It was a force seemingly unstoppable. At least from the current point of the view of the Romans. An army of Greek demigod's following them on top of that already monolithic force just seemed unfair.
As they were only a few streets away from direct combat, the large monster hordes readied to swarm on the Romans. Loud guttural echoes vibrated from the frontline, causing some of the demigods to go wide-eyed.
Percy made a sudden halt as he saw conflict begin. Throwing up a hand sign that signaled for the demigods to stop he barked out orders loudly.
"On me, we will flank the Romans from the east!"
He motioned toward the street to his left with two fingers. Leading the demigods through its empty streets, he felt himself reaching for Bloodtide.
Flanking the Romans, that was the most efficient plan they eventually came up with. Monsters did not have very good receptors when it came to telling apart friends and foes. Hades, most of the time they couldn't tell their own kind apart.
Carefully peering his eyes for any abnormalities in the street he continued the march, seeing a sign that showed they were now on Madison Avenue.
A curse escaped his lips as he saw a group of Romans awaiting behind a feeble blockade. It was made up of mainly furniture, likely scavenged from surrounding buildings. It was a cohort if he had to guess. Judging from the surprised look on some of their faces he guessed they did not expect such a large force on their doorstep.
"Apollo campers, on me!" Percy yelled loudly, watching the Romans scramble to battle positions. They formed a loose shield wall at the bulwark of their defenses.
It did not take long for him to uncover an obvious flaw in their defense. Something they likely had overlooked.
"Those with power over flame light your arrows and aim for the furniture. Others aim for the enemies back line," Percy commanded with a firm voice.
Some of the camper's eyes went wide, likely at the possibility they could kill somebody. But they followed orders anyway.
A storm of arrows flew through the sky. The fire arrows found their targets with perfect precision. While others just found their way into the enemies shields.
Where the flame arrows lodged suddenly came roaring flames. As if the fire was alive it consumed the furniture, spreading as if it had made contact with gasoline. He had to guess that the fire made by Apollo demigods was especially powerful.
"Now, form lines! Ares campers form a phalanx at the vanguard, everyone else follow the orders of your group commander."
Demigods then scrambled in mass, as the Ares campers moved past all the others. Percy joined them, staying just behind their formed line. He would make sure this battle was won with as little death as possible on their end.
Smoke filled the air as the flames quickly died down, consuming the furniture whole. What was left was a blackened line of residue across the street.
Like a sly lion the Greeks moved in slowly but decisively onto the wimpish looking Roman legion. Their line was stretched thin as they no longer had blockades to tighten the field of battle. Seeing as the street was already somewhat tight a Greek victory was all but assured.
No matter what they tried the Romans would never break the phalanx in such an enclosed space.
His assertion was readily tested as the two armies met, it came with a languid Roman charge. Likely realizing that they'd be ruthlessly slaughtered if they kept their inadequate shield wall formation.
Returning with a loud roar of battle the Ares campers met their charge with the outstretched spears of the phalanx. Sickened cries and shouts of death filled the air as Romans met the end of Greek weaponry.
Some Romans made it past due to the sacrifice of their comrades, and when that occurred Percy ordered the phalanx to be broken and sword drawn. He himself pushed past a black haired demigod, taking a timed slash at the throat of a Roman.
"Slaughter them!" Percy roared loudly as the smell of blood hit his nostrils, a familiar companion.
Full chaos erupted, with battle tactics no longer being utilized by either side. It was just slaughter. And a one-sided one at that.
Exerting almost no effort he cut down at least five Roman demigods. Ignorant of who it was they were challenging they charged him. Young faces, his age or younger. After he cut them down he could feel them asking him why he had done it.
Why did he take away their lives? Who was he to decide when they died?
He ignored their ghastly echoes, gritting his teeth. Anger filled him. This wasn't his fault, they were the enemy. He had to kill them, it was Zeus's fault for making him do this.
It wasn't his…
Soon he found the battle to be over. Eyes full of terror stared at him. Without even realizing it had pushed himself past the front line, leaving carnage in his wake. Bloodtide now truly lived up to its name.
Thick red liquid dripped from its pointed edge as if it were a paint brush. Tens of demigods wearing Roman armor laid at his feet, dead.
At least the voices stopped, he thought as he turned his deadpanned gaze toward the triumphant Greek forces.
At a glance, it looked as if the Romans had barely made a dent in their line. He could see familiar Are's campers being taken toward the back line by designated medics.
His berserker's rage had perhaps saved their lives, but at what cost?
'Never mind the cost'
A voice of anger shouted at him from deep inside his subconscious. It was a voice he could not deny.
"Continue the march!" He roared, the ego of anger taking hold. "Olympus falls tonight."
With the avenue won they continued their march unimpeded, stepping over their fallen foes. Earlier vigor had been lost in their ranks, likely at the sight of what true war was.
Blood and regret was all that awaited a soldier. Honor was a myth, created by those who were unwilling to accept reality.
In a true war such truths became evident. They were things one could not learn until they ruthlessly took an enemy's life.
Such things did not matter now, as the Greek forces came into view of the main Roman army. Valiantly they fought against a horde of monsters, commanders shouting out orders. They looked as if they were on the cusp of breaking.
Unexpectedly there were hundreds of other soldiers as well, making up the back line. Satyrs, dryads, and naiads.
One satyr seemed to notice the Greeks, looking with wide-eyes as he seemingly realized the cohort sent to protect the backline had been broken.
"Attack!" Percy roared, throwing strategy out of the window. Carefully looked plans and meticulously planned strategy did little good when it came to the real thing.
A wave of Greeks charged into Roman lines, loud screams of death rang out alongside steel. Percy headed the charge, creating a pincer movement between the Romans and monsters.
Cutting down a dyad that crudely attempted to take his life he cut down many more. Then he felt a pull to his left, near the Empire State Building. As chaos enraptured the field of battle he felt a need to go toward it. Maybe it was Kronos calling, victory was practically in their hands.
Creating a passage for himself through enemy lines he moved toward the steps of the Empire State Building. His eyes caught Alabaster, commanding the children of Hecate just behind the vanguard line.
Moving toward him he called out his name, "Alabaster!"
The Son of Hecate looked surprised, seeing Percy covered in blood.
"Now's not a good time," He retorted.
Percy shook his head, "You have command over the troops. I believe the battle between the Titans and Olympians has begun. I need to go."
Alabaster's eyes widened, "Don't you go dying on me."
The Son of Poseidon let a small smirk pulled at the side of his lip.
"Worry about yourself first."
He moved back toward the Empire State Building, where he saw a couple of burnt corpses at its entrance.
That's when he heard an extremely loud explosion from high up, likely a sign that battle had begun. Titans against Olympians. A chill went down his spine, thinking of how devastating the battle likely would be.
As he entered the Empire State Building he noticed how empty the lobby was. Not a single soul lurked inside of it like it was a part of some ghost town.
That was until he noticed the figure standing in the center of it, staring toward the elevator. His armor was ancient and Greek, it was unlike anything he had seen before.
A golden symbol of a wild boar was attached to his blood-red pauldrons. He had a blood-red Greek on his head, a plum stained with blood fell down to his back. It looked like the armor had been soaked by blood rather than forged to be such a color.
The mere sight alone of the figure awoken a deep festering rage in Percy.
Could it be?
Slowly the figure turned around, and that rage inside of him exploded.
It was…
Ares stood before him. Red eyes burning like flames gave away his identity. They were the same as he had seen them nine-years ago. Burning like two balls of etheric hatred and rage.
"You…" Percy rumbled, gripping Bloodtide with such intensity that he thought he would pop a knuckle out of place.
The God looked at him, darkness all but covering his face. But those eyes. No darkness could ever steal their vigor.
"Hmm?" Echoed Ares, eyeing Percy. "Another traitorous demigod? I was just about to deal with the rest of your kind."
The rage inside Percy almost spilled over, below him he could feel a slight tremor moving across the earth.
How dare he forget the boy whose mother he took from him.
"Say her name," Percy roared, a certain hatred lacing his words like poison. "SAY IT!"
Ares pulled up his spear and shield, narrowing his eyes. Suddenly they widened as if realization came over him.
"You are the demigod everyone was speaking about? Looks like I'll enjoy crushing you all the more."
A flash moved across the lobby and in seconds Ares was thrown through the reception desk, causing the entire building to shake. Percy in his rage that Ares did not remember him threw himself at the God with all his strength.
Anger fueling his strikes Percy let out a roar that echoed through the empty halls. His eyes grew blood-red and his hair white as slammed his blade into Ares as if it was a lion's claw. Even though his attacks were the quickest they had ever been, Ares blocked them all with deadly precision.
Seemingly growing annoyed the God of War then moved in for a counter-attack, braving strikes from Percy's blade as he grabbed Percy's head. Unable to break the monstrous grip the Son of Poseidon soon felt himself thrown into the air.
His teeth grit as he felt his body break through the hardness of a surrounding wall. When his eyes opened next he saw himself in the midst of a street, rumble surrounding him and the sounds of battle not far away.
Having no time to recover he saw an incoming shape jumping at him. Even though his body felt as if it had been slammed with a jack hammer a hundred times he still had it in him to dodge.
Ares created a crater where he landed, smoke arising. Percy would have been completely destroyed if he had not dodged the attack.
"You are weak, how dare you even try to strike me down." Jeered Ares, fiery hatred in his tone.
His taunting made a column of raw loathing expand up his spine. A burst of energy filled his aching body as he dashed forward, a loud cry escaping from his lips. Ares looked somewhat surprised, likely at the fact the demigod could still move.
Ares thrust his spearhead at Percy's midsection, a quick turning of his equilibrium ensured the strike did not meet its intended target. Taking the little opportunity that presented itself with the God's wasted movement he readily moved his blade in a diagonal arc.
A long clank roared through the air as Ares brought his large shield to defend against the strike. Percy foreseeing such an occurrence manifested a blood-red dagger in his right hand, using the energy he consumed from Triton earlier.
Momentarily stopping the Olympian's movements he threw the dagger at a chink the God exposed by moving to block the strike. A loud growl of pain came from deep within Ares's stomach as the knife lodged itself into his arm-pit. Disappearing momentarily after, letting out a small flow of ichor.
His victory was short-lived though as Ares slammed his shield into him. He flew back a couple feet, this time able to catch himself.
Both of their red-eyes met each other, sharing a common hatred and bloodlust.
"Got a few tricks up your sleeve, think that will let you beat me? I am the God of WAR!"
Like a boar Ares charged at Percy, giving no time for the demigod to recover his barings. A red aura blazed around the God, promising destruction.
Percy knew fighting him head-on would be suicide. Olympus was overhead, while the echoes of battle were not far away. Ares would be empowered by both factors. This wasn't like when he fought Artemis.
Rage, he had to fully embrace it. If he didn't, he would die. Time seemed to slow as he saw Ares charging him.
His mother's face, the one he saw many years ago. When the policeman carried him away. Broken, lifeless. The paleness of her exposed flesh.
What he had lost. What was taken from him.
The reason he still persisted even with such gnawing pain. Vengeance.
Long ago he forfeited the right to live as a human. He had become an avatar of revenge, driven by a pure raw instinct. That was who he was, he'd never escape it until he satiated its bloodlust.
He felt it, the source of that energy. It nestled deep in his subconscious, never did he fully realize its potential.
But now he would embrace it.
Everything went black as he felt it completely take over. Time's flow also returned to its normal state, as everything stopped playing in slow motion.
Instinct completely took over as he met Are's charge, exercising in full his power over blood he did his best to constrict the God's sharp movement. Working as a momentary act of surprise he slid between the God's open legs.
Bloodtide found its mark in the exposed Achilles heel of the God. Ares, unable to hold back the expansion of pain on left foot let out a loud bellow of pain.
Attempting to follow it up with a strike at the God's midsection his blade this time was met with a timed block. Ares, consumed entirely by rage began a flurry of strikes with his spear.
Like two wild animals engaging in a life or death fight for dominance, the two exchanged blows. Shallow cuts were opened on the right side of Percy's face and arm. Unable to completely keep up with the maddening speed Ares exerted.
Every strike held with the possibility of death, something that exerted a deep dormant instinct for survival in the demigod. Adrenaline pumped so heavily through his veins that he couldn't feel his face, much less his body.
Taking advantage of a sudden overreach by Ares, Percy slid Bloodtide cooly through the air. A wave of ichor flew through the air as a successful strike just below the God's cheek guard was levied.
Ares tried to slam the shaft of his spear into Percy's temple, but expecting the attack he masterfully dodged under it. Leaning his entire body weight forward he was able to make a deep strike into the God of War's thigh.
Following it up he used the generated mass of his body to dodge, narrowly missing being slammed with his bronze shield.
"You fucking mouse!" Ares yelled, as a bright energy started to emanate from under his armor, like a vaporous mist.
It surrounded him in a thin layer, including his spear and shield. Immediately Percy realized it was divine energy, the plan he had been setting into motion without even fully realizing it suddenly made sense.
He moved his fist forward, aiming his ring directly at Ares who currently was winding up an attack from above. Percy tried to tap into the power of the ring, consumption of divine energy.
It was not something he used often, but he needed it's power now more than ever. He focused on it intently, trying to remember the sensation he felt when he used it other times. But it wasn't the same, consumption of such raw energy seemed unstable.
As the shadow of Ares spear loomed overhead he closed his eyes, putting all his faith in this single attack. He had come too far to die, that was something he knew for sure.
That's when he felt it, an intense burning energy coming from his ring finger. It was so hot he was convinced his finger would be burned off by it.
His eyes opened just in time to see bright red energy explode in front of him. Its radius was like a cone, it consumed Ares entirely. The God of War was thrown like a ragdoll into the side of large building just behind him. The wall collapsed onto him, creating a dust cloud its wake.
Percy felt as if his body had just been consumed by molten lava. The after effect of using the God's own energy against him was extremely painful. But it was not so bad that he could not fight against it and win. On the bright side, if he felt like this he could only imagine how much it damaged Ares.
Gripping his blade with a newfound intensity he moved toward the rubble that had swallowed the God of War, ready to finally put an end to his immortal life.
Nico POV, New York, One World Trade Center
Atop the tallest skyscraper in New York Nico stood, Hecate only a foot away. In the distance, below the aerial distortion of the sky could be seen the unfolding conflict. Though it was so far away that all the combatants looked like ants, he as the Son of Death could feel it on a much more personal level.
Souls being claimed by his father's domain. Demigod's dying by each other's hand, it should have been disturbing. But Nico had long since moved past such mortal emotions. Hecate had shown him the true path toward a perfect world.
Death was a gateway to it. Those who died now would be satiated with all of their wildest dreams once Hecate's plan is successful and Phanes is revived. Peace on earth, free of sin. Humanity would return to the biblical Eden.
What was to happen tonight would only be the beginning.
"When will you activate it?" Nico asked out loud, his question clearly aimed at Hecate.
The Titaness smiled slightly.
"Soon my champion. The seals you placed across New York City are not perfect. A certain amount of blood must be shed before they activate."
Nico nodded apprehensively. Hecate had given him the quest of planting five ominously red colored gems across New York City, representing the five points a pentagram.
The purpose of such an act would have made him sick if he did not already evolve past his previously weak and pathetic state. It was to use all of the mortals in New York City as a sacrifice. A sacrifice that would destroy the mist entirely. Those holding the blood of God's would not be affected by the blast.
Mankind would no longer be blinded to the supernatural world around them. They would be able to see it clearly.
When they did then change could finally occur, chaos and death were required to awaken Phanes. Turning the world into a state of Primordial Chaos was the only way to spur the World-Egg to hatch.
It needed to be done, for the greater good. That which is imperfect and sinful needs to be shed away, like the skin of a snake. After all, it is the symbol of Phanes.
Suddenly his thoughts were interrupted, Hecate spoke up with a chilling tone.
"Look, it is finally happening."
Through the clouds he could see it. Five bright red columns erupting toward the heavenly firmament. The sight was awe-inspiring, it completely mesmerized Nico. Never before had he ever seen something so hauntingly majestic.
A red energy emitted from the sides of the beams, projecting into each other with straight lines. It looked like something out of a sci-fi movie, completely out of what should be possible. Yet here it was, occurring before him in a monolithic fashion.
"Is it..." Nico started.
"It is," Hecate confirmed, a sick smile on her face as she nodded. "Now, it finally begins."
Percy POV, Empire State Building NYC
His blade was aimed at the neck of a defeated Ares, who's flaming eyes had started to become faint. Golden ichor covered his body and large portions of his armor was completely blown off his body, including his helmet. It was a pathetic but worthy state for such a sick and twisted God.
"Her name was Sally Jackson," Percy said coldly. "You killed her along with my innocence."
Ares chiseled face was twisted, likely still disoriented from the energy he had been blown back with. All of his rage had been beaten out of him and consumed by Percy.
"Sally...Jackson?" Ares muttered under his breath. "What are you…?"
Bloodtide's edge sunk into his throat slightly, causing the God to stop his attempts at speech.
"Don't you dare fucking lie, you coward. Admit what you did, I saw you murder her. You told me to get strong, to become a murderer. This entire time I have lived to destroy you. I am the Son of Poseidon who you were sent to murder."
Ares coughed painfully, spewing a collection of blood onto the pavement next to him. He looked completely in pain, but even so he tried to utter a reply.
"On the Styx, I swear I was never sent to kill you. Poseidon never would have let you die without destroying all of Olympus as revenge. Let me live, plea—"
His plea was stopped short as a series of slashes cut at his face. Loud cries echoed from his shivering lips.
He was lying. He was lying. He was lying.
Like a mantra, he repeated it.
But as familiar thunder boomed in the distance and Ares form remained unchanged. His mind all but stopped working. Like a computer overloaded with more information than its processing could handle.
What?
That wasn't possible. Ares had done it, he killed his mother.
Why didn't the Styx take his soul, was there some sort of trickery at play?
"Say it again, this time more clearly," Percy ordered.
Ares looked up at him, his face covered in golden ichor.
"I swear on the Styx," He coughed slightly. "I didn't kill your mother. I never told you to become a murderer, I swear it on the Styx!"
Thunder boomed again as a look of existential terror crossed Percy's face. Bloodtide dropped onto the floor, and his reddened eyes and white hair returned to normal. Slowly he backed away, his eyes looking at his bloodied hands.
Everything, was it all a lie?
Who did this, how could something like this happen? It wasn't possible.
A light in the distance caught his attention, mouth agape he looked toward it. Bright red energy formed in a column, an energy that reminded him of his ring. They had formed across the skyline, connecting to each other by faint red links.
What was this feeling he had?
It drew a memory from his subconscious. One he had all but forgotten.
The noble figure amidst a ruined New York City. Desolation, death. A pale white snake. Was this what he was warning him about.
A loud shrill yell a few feet away caught his attention. It was a little girl, crying in a fetal position.
That wasn't possible either, all of the mortals had been subconsciously guided out of Manhattan before the battle. They shouldn't be awake either. What was this?
Suddenly he felt it, intense energy permeating through the air, a thick wave of pure bloodlust. He felt it before, countless times. His eyes widened he dashed towards the girl, taking her in his arms while covering her small figure with his body.
Their eyes met. A ghost stared back at him. This girl was identical to Mary, the little sister he had while living with Mary and Alice. She had died because of him, he had practically murdered her. A chill went down his back.
A forlorn voice spoke from his subconscious, murmuring something that caused his entire body to chill.
'A sea of souls shall be taken as toll'
No, no, no. This couldn't be happening. Those words were meaningless.
He prayed. For the first time in his entire life, he prayed.
Please, any God, anywhere. Take my life instead, don't let this girl die. Please, send me to hell.
Tears filled his eyes as a bright flash of red blinded him. Everything around him was consumed by the same red energy he'd callously used as a tool before. Never thinking twice of how evil it was to consume another's soul, monster or not.
A silent aeon passed by. Sounds of battle halted. New York City was truly silenced.
Percy's entire body shook as he bravely started to open his eyes. Still in his arms, was the still figure of the little girl he had picked up.
But only it wasn't truly her. It was ash. Like the victims of Pompei. Her entire existence was snuffed out before she could realize it.
A lone tear fell from Percy's cheek onto the girl, causing her figure to crumble in his hands.
Shocked and terrified he rose up, fear striking at his heart like a demon. It was as if he was still a small child, mourning over his mother's death.
Looking at the empty street before him he saw a wave of ash, pushed away gently by the slight wind of the dark night.
It was the same street he had seen in his dream on Ogygia. A picturesque duplicate of the eerie sight. Only the bright figure was missing, the spot he was supposed to be in was instead filled with a cloud of ash.
His eyes closed, followed by a deep inhale.
This was his fault. He could have stopped it, if only he was not blinded by rage.
All of this was his…
No.
No more self-pity. His entire life was lived in pity of his unfortunate circumstances. Always subtly controlled by his emotions, blinded by hatred. It was pathetic
He took off the ring Hecate had given him years ago off his finger, throwing it onto the ground. His gaze was cast toward where the demigods had been fighting. Many were still alive, he could see that a majority of the Greeks still stood. From what he saw even a large portion of Roman's lived.
Albeit in a daze. Though it seemed the blast had destroyed the monsters as well. His eyes then looked towards the crumbled form of Ares. Completely defeated he looked as if he had passed out, still covered by debris.
Then, a final gaze was cast toward the Empire State Building, triumphantly reaching into the heavens above.
No longer would he be a villain, nor a hero.
He began to walk away from it all. Grasping at the corinthian helmet on his head, holding the insignia of Kronos, he readily threw it off. A loud sound of steel meeting concrete echoed through the streets.
A promise made a long time ago resonated through his clouded yet strangely clear mind. Yet this time something new accompanied it.
He would become a runaway, wild like the sea and as wrathful as bloodshed by a blade. Saving people, as many as possible. That's what he would do. No more attachments to blind him.
In the distance beams of red shot over the darkened horizon. The sun had finally begun to rise, and with it, Percy's promise was set in stone. This time, he would not break it.
A/N
Well damn. My longest and most plot intensive chapter yet. All of the subtle foreshadowing culminating finally into this final work. Once I started writing, I could not stop. Lots of plot twists unveiled, a lot of them hinted at earlier in the story. This chapter stopped just shy of ten thousand words. So their may be some grammatical errors I overlooked. I would have broken it up into two parts but I felt like it would have ruined the suspense, plus I don't care much for cliff hangers.
Please review and tell me what you think, this was a really big chapter for me. Both literally and mentally. Anyway beyond my shameless plea. I hope you all enjoyed, have a good day/night and see you next chapter(coming somewhat soon).