WE DID IT Y'ALL! A PJO SHOW IS COMING TO DISNEY+ AND RICK AND BECKY ARE WORKING ON IT! If you don't follow Rick Riordan on Twitter I'm telling you now that is the fastest way you will get updates on everything. He's been working so hard and has even started the draft of the script for the pilot so when this comes out a few years from now PLEASE support it! They are taking the time to do this reboot correctly so let's get out there and show them it's worth their time! (Also I'm hoping if it gets big enough they'll make a theme park for it and that would just be *chef's kiss*)

Also, just curious… If I posted one of those "Interview with the Author" type things as a one-shot where I talked about this story (like how I wrote it/why I made the choices I did with how it turned out), how many of you would actually want/read it? Because I may or may not have already started one lol. (Please answer the question, even if you can only leave a guest review because I really don't wanna post it and then not have anyone read it.)

All that aside, I hope everyone is still doing well and staying healthy. Also support equal rights 3

One more chapter left. Enjoy :)

Chapter 19

After Gaea's defeat, her remaining spells faded from existence. In her cave at the bottom of the ocean, the little brown creatures- remnants of merpeople- sighed with relief. The death of their captor meant their freedom.

Their bodies glowed and expanded. One by one, each mermaid and merman rose up from the floor and spun back into life, their bodies restored to their natural states. They rejoiced with ecstatic energy before fleeing the cave, swimming home to their families after years of captivity.

At a spot far from the cave, closer to shore, the trident and crown slowly sank to the rocky bottom. King Poseidon stared up at them in his withered form before he, too, sprang up from the ground. He grabbed his trident and placed his crown on his head.

Percy and the others had done it. They had defeated the Sea Witch Gaea and brought peace to the ocean.

He looked up at the water's surface, knowing that somewhere up there, his son would be waiting. He pressed his lips together and braced himself for the moment. He swam up and raised his head above the water, slowly making his way toward the shore.

When he eventually found the group his son was with, he froze. The teenage warriors were casually mingling with humans. As if such a thing had been happening for centuries. He never thought he'd see it.

He floated in place, uncertainty filling him. He couldn't just go in and intrude on them. Not when he'd kept them apart for years. Not after they'd pulled their strength together and fought an incredible battle- one he had caused by his own ignorance.

Poseidon quickly came to the conclusion that it was best to wait for morning. He would talk to Chiron before making any decisions; then he'd let the kids know. But until the stars disappeared in the sky, he stayed quiet and watched, waiting for the sun to come up.

As night turned to morning, there was little action on the strip of beach by the palace. Hedge had corralled all the wedding guests into the castle while the battle was going on, then quickly ran outside to watch the teenagers fight Gaea.

Mellie had come out of the water by the wedding boat, not caring if she was seen by humans. Fearing she might not even survive the night, she found it pointless to keep her existence a secret. Then Hedge caught sight of her. He kept her and the others safe by the palace while the fight dragged on, assuring her and Chiron that his pupils were well prepared to fight when needed.

Chiron took the opportunity to explain their situation. Tyson had many questions about the chaotic circumstances, so Grover aided in the storytelling. Ella would occasionally mumble statements under her breath, like "not smart- definitely not smart," or "Poseidon will be angry," which didn't contribute to the mood.

When Gaea was finally killed, they grew impatient waiting for everyone to return to land. Chiron was about to swim out to the wreckage when Frank, Nico, and Jason appeared, tugging the lifeboat carrying Will, Piper, and a very seasick Hazel. Soon after came Calypso and Thalia in the water, then Leo in the sky, Reyna and Annabeth his passengers.

Last was Percy, who had been stuck farthest away from the shore. When he saw that Annabeth was alive, he cried out in relief. He wanted to go up and hug her and tell her that they didn't have to worry about anything ever again. But the second he moved forward in the ocean, he realized that he couldn't. He was a merman again. His brief, wonderful, life-changing experience with legs was over.

He felt himself grow weak again. He found the nearest rock and sat himself on top, staring at the conversing humans in a daze he wished he wasn't in. He couldn't swim up there and talk to them. How could he? He had just put them all in mortal danger, throwing them into the most intense battle they would ever fight. On top of that: his father knew about everything. If he were to talk to any of his human friends again, it would be to say goodbye.

On the beach, his friends were quickly realizing this fact. Now that the battle was over and their only threat was eliminated, there was nothing left that allowed them to stay together. But once everyone had come together onshore, they were forced into busywork that kept them from facing reality.

Hedge tried insisting they go back to the palace for proper treatment, but some of them (mainly Annabeth and Hazel) were too weak to travel up the beach. Leo made round trips with Will on Festus to retrieve supplies from the castle and bring them back to their makeshift camp. Everyone else waited for the sun to rise and provide them with proper light.

When morning finally came, the merpeople immediately spotted King Poseidon further back in the water, waiting. Tyson, Ella, Juniper, and Grover swam over to him first, not having any purpose in staying to talk to the humans. Chiron gave them a quick goodbye before going into the water.

Mellie sighed as she watched them move over to the King. "I guess that's my cue." She turned back to Hedge. They'd been exchanging stories about working jobs that dealt with chaotic royalty. She flashed him a smile. "Well… I'm glad I got to see you. Again."

"Yeah." He returned her smile. "Me too. I just wish y'all could stay longer."

She nodded, trying to ignore her sinking heart. "Me too…" She stared at him, feeling a sense of loss she didn't know she could have. She tried to shake it away. "Take care of those kids, okay?"

Hedge stood up straighter and put his fist over his heart. "You can count on me."

Mellie let a laugh escape her before she could stop it. She gave him a last wave of her hand. "Goodbye, Gleeson." Then she turned around and joined the King, not wanting to stick around and make it harder on herself.

Down the beach, Calypso spotted Leo standing in the surf. She had been floating in the water next to Thalia, waiting for him to get back from his last round at the palace. She must have missed his arrival while she watched Tyson and Grover swim over to Poseidon. She slowly swam up to him, her scarlet tail tracing the sand in the water. She nodded her head toward Annabeth, who was still lying down on the beach, wiped out from being under Gaea's spell and delivering the final blow in battle. "How is she?"

He exhaled loudly, also clearly exhausted from their long night. "A little water-logged. Again. But nothing she can't handle. Will has it all under control."

She nodded her head. "I'm glad to hear it."

Leo looked at her with sad eyes, but tried for a smile. "We really did it, huh?"

She smiled back at him. "Yep."

"We defeated a giant magic octopus that tried to kill our friends and take over the ocean."

"Yes." Then she added as an afterthought, "No thanks to you."

He lightly brushed her arm in a halfhearted, playful punch. "You didn't help much either." He stared at her features, soaking in the way the morning light bounced off her damp hair. "So…" he sighed. "I guess this is it?"

Her face fell. She tried to ignore the lump in her throat. How could she care so much about him? She didn't think she'd ever understand it. After a solemn pause, she spoke softly. "I wish it didn't have to be this way."

Leo blinked his eyes. "We could always try having secret rendezvous," he said. "We could keep in touch-"

She shook her head. "You know it can't be that way…" She rubbed her face with her hands, her gaze falling to the water. "I'm so sorry Leo- our deal that we made… I'll never be able to bring you-"

"Hey." He grabbed her shoulders with both hands. Calypso looked back up at him, surprised at his comforting touch. "Forget about celestial bronze. Forget about those promises. What matters is that everyone is safe." A brief light flickered behind his eyes. A small ounce of a dangerous thing.

Hope.

"I will see you again," he said. "I don't care how long it takes or how impossible it may be. I will see you again. That's a real promise I can, and will, keep."

She gaped at him, her chest swelling with emotion. She silently cursed him for being incredible. She grabbed his face and pulled him into a kiss. All thoughts left her mind. All she could understand was the truth in his words, and the impossibilities they faced.

Leo's body was paralyzed with the most wonderful feeling he'd ever experienced when she finally pushed herself away. He didn't want to let go of her. It was wrong.

Calypso rubbed tears out of her eyes. "Goodbye, Leo Valdez." She turned her back to him and swam to Percy's side at the rock, waiting for the others to say their farewells. But Leo stayed frozen in place, the circuits in his brain fried from the lingering tingle on his lips.

Even farther down the beach, Hazel and Will prepared to say goodbye to Nico and Frank. The girl tried her best to hold back tears as she waded into the surf and embraced her brother. "Take care of yourself. Hang in there." She pulled back and took him in. His pale skin almost glowed in the sunlight. The scales on his black tail shimmered like obsidian stones. She hated that she wouldn't see him again. "I'm sure the King won't punish you. Not after what you did last night."

"I hope not." He tried for a smile. He'd just found Hazel- and now he was saying goodbye. It didn't seem fair. None of it did. "You take care of yourself too. No more boat rides for a while. Promise?"

Hazel nodded, squeezing his hands. "Promise."

Nico placed a kiss on her forehead. "Good." Hazel reluctantly stepped away from him and turned to Frank, afraid that if she stood with Nico any longer, she'd completely break down. Nico took his chance to say goodbye to Will.

"I'm surprised you haven't passed out yet," he said. "Between wedding planning and taking care of my sister."

"What? Letting exhaustion get the best of me? Never heard of it." He cracked Nico one of his warm smiles. "Your sister is tough. Always has been. Now that one over there-" he nodded his head at Annabeth, who was laying on a sheet in the sand, recovering from relentlessly being thrown underwater. "That one is stubborn. At least Hazel knows when to accept help."

"Will she be okay?"

"Yeah. It's not like this is the first time she's been in a shipwreck." He looked back at Nico. "Besides, I have it all under control."

The merman nodded. "I know you do." Annabeth suddenly gave a harsh cough, prompting Hedge to rush to her side.

"Ah- I better go. Duty calls." He made to walk away, but abruptly stopped. "I'm glad I got to meet you, Nico. I wish it didn't have to end this way."

He left to attend to the Princess, leaving Nico with an empty feeling in his chest. "Me too."

At the same time, Hazel was stepping back from Frank. "Keep training hard. I know you'll save more lives if you keep at it."

Frank beamed at her. "I will. I promise. And you make sure everyone stays out of trouble."

She flashed a teary smile. "I will." Frank moved back in the water, reluctantly leaving with Nico to join Calypso at the rock.

King Poseidon watched them gather by his son, who was still staring at Annabeth laying in the sand. He sighed, giving in to what he knew was the inevitable. If he'd learned anything while anxiously waiting for his son's return, it was that he never gave Percy enough credit. The kid knew what he wanted in life, and nothing would stop that passion. "He really does love her… Doesn't he, Chiron?"

The crab nodded. "Well, it's like they always say, Your Majesty: children must be free to lead their own lives."

The King briefly questioned where Chiron would have heard someone say that, but then thought better of it. There was rarely ever arguing with the crustacean. "Then… I guess there's just one problem left."

Chiron raised his brow. "And what's that, Your Majesty?"

Poseidon tightened his hold on his trident, growing sad. He stared over at his son, who seemed to have grown up faster than he could have imagined. After days of panic and worry, they were finally reunited. But if that meant his son would be miserable, then he would never forgive himself for passing this opportunity. "How much I'm going to miss him."

It took a second for this sentence to register with Chiron. There was no way the King would be willing to change his ideas so fast… Was there?

While he tried to process what was about to happen, Piper was saying goodbye to Jason and Thalia. She stood in the water and rubbed her arms, ridding herself of the anxiety that came with farewells. After she'd just started getting to know the teenagers from Atlantica, they were being forced back into their secret kingdom.

Piper let her thoughts slip through her lips. "You know, it's kinda funny." Maybe it was from the comfort Jason brought with him, allowing her to have peace, if only for a few moments. She spoke gently, "I've heard stories about Atlantica for years… and here you are. Right in front of me…" She took in a deep breath of salty sea air. "I wish I could see what it's like. Experience it all for myself."

Jason responded with a soft smile. "I wish you could see it too." He shrugged. "Plus, I think you'd make an amazing mermaid." Piper stared at him. "I mean, you've already got the voice for it, so, it's almost as if you were born for it." He gave a little laugh, rubbing the back of his neck with his hand. He was failing at hiding his nerves around her- she didn't mind. "In a way, I mean." He met her gaze, her eye color as mesmerizing as ever. It allowed him to finish his train of thought. "I know you would like it."

If possible, her smile grew softer. "I know I would too."

Thalia rolled her eyes at their exchange. "Okay, you two. Say goodbye. We haven't got all day."

Piper took another deep breath and opened her mouth, only to immediately be cut off by another voice. "Uh, sorry to interrupt."

Leo waded up to Piper's side, rummaging around in his toolbelt. "I, uh, grabbed something from the palace for you on one of my trips back." He held out an object toward Jason. It was made of thin wires and two glass circles.

He put them on Jason's face. "They're called glasses. I noticed you struggling in battle last night and thought maybe these would help." Jason blinked several times, scanning his friends and his sister and the environment around them. "If those aren't helping, I have another pair that might-"

"No, no! It's…" He shook his head in disbelief. "I had no idea I was having trouble with my eyesight. These are perfect. How did you-" he looked up into Leo's face and suddenly realized the red tint in his eyes. "Leo- have you been crying?"

"What?!" Leo wiped his eyes with his fingers. "No! I've just been- ah- really sleep-deprived, that's all. All of this planning and fighting has worn me out. I can't help it if I have bloodshot eyes."

Piper put her hand on his arm. "Leo-"

"It's fine! I'm fine! Everything's fine!" He started to retreat back to the beach. "Anyway, those should work just fine underwater. Take care of yourself, I'll miss you, all that other jazz."

Piper turned back to Jason and Thalia once he was out of earshot. "He's always weird, I promise it's not because of you two."

They laughed and pulled her into a hug. Piper wrapped her arms around their shoulders. They were cool to the touch from being under the water. She opened her mouth to say goodbye, but was once again cut off: this time by movement behind their embrace.

She pulled back from them and furrowed her eyebrows. "What…?" Jason and Thalia followed her gaze.

Poseidon's trident was glowing brighter than the morning sun. He placed the three-pronged end flat against the surface of the water, each point directed at Percy sitting alone on his rock. A trail of light seeped out of the weapon and moved towards the Prince.

Everyone watched as it reached the rock and engulfed it, climbing up the sides and encompassing Percy's body. Only then did he notice it.

Percy stared down at his glowing body, shocked at the feeling that was suddenly taking over him. Every cell tingled and changed, but unlike when he was undergoing Gaea's spell, it felt pleasant and welcoming. Like a familiar blanket being wrapped around his body. He looked up at his father, his eyes reflecting surprise and joy.

Poseidon gave a small nod, but it spoke more to Percy than any words could have. He grinned and jumped off his rock, diving headfirst into the water, moving towards the shore.

In the sand, Will shook Annabeth's shoulder. "Um, Annabeth? You might wanna try to stand now."

Annabeth groaned and rubbed her face with the palms of her hands. Her body was still very sore, but her limbs weren't the only things that were aching. Her heart was torn. Her brain was mush. She'd been under a spell for nearly 24 hours, had to fight in a battle for a boy she wanted a chance with, and now said boy was likely out of her reach forever. "Will, you've been telling me to lay down and recover all night- and NOW you want me to stand?"

Hedge let out a frustrated grunt. "My gods, Princess- will you just look?"

Annabeth scrunched her eyebrows at this. She sat up with reflexes so fast it gave her a head rush. She rubbed her forehead and blinked spots out of her eyes. Then she had to squint through light. What was causing…?

Then her eyes widened. Percy's body dimmed down as he rose further and further out of the water. He was walking at first, the waves making it difficult to move. But as the water narrowed down to the strip of dry sand Annabeth was sitting on, he sped up faster and faster.

Annabeth used Will and Hedge to stand up before matching Percy's speed. When they finally met at the water's edge, she flung her arms around his neck and he picked her up by her waist, spinning her around like he'd never be able to use his arms again. She pressed her face into his shoulder and laughed into his white shirt- somehow dry despite him being in the water only seconds ago. His black pants and blue waistband were just as impossibly dry.

Percy put her down and stood back to look at her. Her tunic was a blue that reminded him of the clouds. Her sleeves were torn and her hair was a tangled mess down her back. He didn't care.

"Annabeth," he started, still in disbelief. "I'm… I'm so so sorry-"

"Percy." She laughed and pressed her forehead against his. "It's okay. There's still a lot you need to tell me… but…"

"Yeah." He grinned at her. "I know." He stared into her grey eyes, hoping he would never forget the emotions flashing behind them. "Um…" he cleared his throat, squeezing her fingers in his. "Do you wanna try this again?"

Annabeth grinned. "Third time's the charm."

Percy laughed and leaned down and kissed her. All the secrets and yearnings and fighting and excitement that had built up over the past week seemed to flow through his body, giving him new life. Annabeth smiled against his salty lips before pulling away and taking in his presence, still unconvinced any of this was real. She didn't think she'd ever let go of him.

Over by the rock, Calypso's body tingled with new anticipation. The future that seemed so impossible a few minutes ago now flashed across her mind as she watched Percy and Annabeth embrace.

She turned to Poseidon. "My King," she said. He pulled his eyes off his son and looked at her. "If it's not too much, I would like to ask to be turned human as well."

Poseidon stared at her for a moment, slightly taken aback. "You too, Calypso? I wasn't aware that you felt the same as Percy."

"I do indeed, Sire." She straightened her shoulders before glancing at the water, muttering, "I just hid my feelings better."

This made Poseidon laugh. "Yes… Percy was never good at hiding it. But neither of you should've had to hide what you felt. I just have to ask..." He showed concern for her. "Are you sure about this?"

She looked back at the shore, her eyes locking with Leo's, if only for a split second. He'd been watching her, his face now cautiously hopeful. She turned back to Poseidon. "Yes, Sire."

The King bowed his head, speaking with his gesture.

As you wish.

He pointed his trident at her, as he did with Percy. The same tingling feeling filled her body, and she suddenly found herself consumed in a similar light. Then she was kicking in the water with two limbs. She moved towards the shore, her bare feet digging deep into the wet sand.

A long scarlet dress suddenly billowed around her in the coastal winds. Her body wasn't even entirely out of the water when she found herself moving faster. Leo was coming towards her with greater speed. Her legs wobbled as her ankles felt the shallow waves splash around her and she threw her arms around the boy. She didn't wipe away her tears this time.

In the water, Poseidon sighed and looked at Chiron. "Things will be very different at the palace."

Chiron coughed and pointed his staff at the rest of the teens. "From what I've seen this past week, Sire, I think you should ask them the question."

He pursed his lips and nodded at the crab. "Yes- let's see who else will be leaving us today." He squared his shoulders and spoke with a loud voice, "Trainees." The remaining teens in the water lined up in front of him on instinct.

Poseidon held his trident perpendicular to the water's surface. "I know that life in Atlantica may not always be suitable for everyone. And after everything you've been through the past few days, it wouldn't surprise me if you've found a greater interest in human life. If you wish to join the others on land, I will grant it to you." Then, very lowly muttered under his breath, "Before I change my mind."

They gaped back at him, shocked. Nico had to remind himself that it was rude to stare with your mouth open. His brain grew numb as he tried to process what was being laid out in front of him. A chance at a human life…

He glanced back at Hazel, who was standing at the edge of the waves, wearing an expression that showed she was just as surprised as he was. For the first time since that night on the dock, they were being given the chance to live a life together. As brother and sister.

Movement behind her caught his attention. Will stood up from his spot by the makeshift infirmary and dusted his hands free of sand. Something flashed across Nico's mind: something he wasn't ready to admit out loud. He sent a determined smile at Hazel. They had a chance. And he would take it.

Before he could even open his mouth to accept Poseidon's offer, Frank spoke up. "I wish to become a human, too." Just when the others thought they couldn't be more surprised, Frank proved them wrong.

His ears grew red as he realized all eyes were on him. "It's just that… a life where you can change how you look every day and train without water slowing you down and experiencing things we were never able to experience before… I can't pass that up."

Nico patted his friend's shoulder, then looked at the King. "I'd like to join them too, Sire. I've already lost one sister. I can't lose another."

Poseidon raised an eyebrow at this and looked down at Chiron for an explanation. The crab scratched his chin. "Um, long story, Your Majesty. But yes- Nico has a half-sibling onshore."

"Really?" He looked between Nico and the group of humans on the beach. "It seems that I've been wrong about humans for quite some time then… Very well. If it's what you two wish, then you may join them."

He lowered his trident for the third time that day, sending a powerful light that encompassed the mermen. Nico and Frank's bodies morphed just as Percy and Calypso's had. They exchanged elated looks before diving under the water and propelling toward the shore.

Hazel was already soaked to her knees in the waves when Nico popped up first, falling into her arms. He lifted her up and squeezed her so hard he had to step back and make sure he hadn't hurt her. Her torn dress flapped against his black pants in the morning breeze, colored like honey in the sunlight. He grinned at her. "Hi, Sis."

She smiled back. "Hi." She helped him walk out of the waves. "Are you feeling okay?"

Nico tried to balance on his new feet. "Yeah. I got this, I think." He let go of her and took three steps forward before tripping. He stumbled sideways and crashed into Will Solace's chest. He hadn't realized the boy had come over to join them.

"Woah!" Will looked down at him. "Take it easy. Your body needs time to adjust to having legs."

Nico tried to ignore the bundle of nerves in his stomach. "No kidding."

Frank chose that moment to pop out of the water.

"Frank!" Hazel tackled him in a hug, which led to both of them falling into the shallow water. "You're a human! This is amazing!" She pulled away from him. "But…" she furrowed her brows. "Why?"

"Well, it's like you said last night." He helped her up and tugged at his purple waistband. "I'd be a pretty good archer if I stayed on land, wouldn't I?"

Hazel laughed and kissed his cheek, not caring that their height difference made it difficult. His face flushed. "Yes, yes you would."

Back in the water, Jason grew nervous. And Thalia could sense it. One advantage she had being his older sister was that she could read him like an open book. The way his hand was twitching at his side, how the scar on his lip was quirked up- he wanted what his friends had. But he wasn't sure he'd be willing to make such a large decision.

Thalia grabbed his hands in hers. "Hey." She met his gaze. "Do what's best for you. No matter what that means."

Jason scanned her face incredulously. He would never not be grateful for a sister like her. Supportive and caring. He tightened his grip on her fingers. "It's just… I-"

"Um, Your Majesty, King Poseidon, Sir?"

Thalia and Jason whipped their heads around. Piper was knee-deep in the water, standing behind them awkwardly with a confused look on her face, as if she herself was wondering why she was in the water. "Is it possible for you to do that trick in reverse?"

Jason let go of Thalia and swam closer to her. "Piper, are you sure-"

"Jason." She grabbed his wrists. "What I have here… it isn't perfect. It never has been. I mean I love all of them," she gestured at the members of Annabeth's royal staff, "But beyond that… there hasn't been much. I have an overbearing mother that's controlled every aspect of my life- sent me to the palace, got me my job, made sure Hedge would always be there to protect me… It's a lot. And I've had way too many scuffles with my siblings…" She smiled at him. "But this. This I'm sure of."

She turned back to Poseidon, who was acting much calmer than she expected. "So, um, if it's not too much to ask- I would be honored if I could join your kingdom."

He sent her a warm smile. "My dear, any friend to Jason and Thalia is welcome in Atlantica." He gave her a bow and wielded his trident. He sent a surge of light at her that consumed her body, merging her legs into a tail and allowing her to breathe both under and above the water. Her tunic faded away like a mist.

She stared down at her body, a crisp raspberry color reflecting up at her through the waves. She flicked her tail out in front of her and stared at her fins, which were only a few shades lighter than the body of her tail. A matching pair of raspberry seashells replaced the top of her tunic. Her hair floated around her shoulders.

Jason stared at her tail, his nerves returning. "How do you feel?"

"I feel…" She propelled back in the water, surprised at her own strength. "Good. Really good. A little exposed," she rubbed her bare shoulders, "but, really, really good."

Jason swam to her side and grinned, relief washing over him. As much as he liked the idea of being human, being in the ocean felt perfect. He didn't think there was a better place in the world. And he was thrilled Piper would see it. She looked like the world had been lifted off her shoulders. "I'm glad," he breathed.

Thalia jetted past them. "Alright- hurry and have your moment. We've gotta start saying goodbye to people. For real, this time. No more second chances."

Her brother gave an embarrassed laugh as she left, wondering if he was really being that obvious. He turned to Piper. "Um, so-"

Piper pulled Jason towards her and kissed him. Something about him and whatever the future held in Atlantica- it was there, in her soul. And no amount of skepticism could make her doubt otherwise.

Thalia found Reyna through the bustle of bodies on the beach. "Hey." She gestured at Poseidon. "You could join us, you know. Fight in our army and stuff. You'd make a great candidate."

Reyna smiled at the offer. "Thank you, but… I've already pledged my allegiance to the throne. To Annabeth. I know this kingdom and its people. I love what I have here."

Thalia nodded. "I feel that. A lot." She shrugged her shoulders. "But the offer's there, in case you ever want to take it."

Reyna gave her a small bow, serenity somehow finding its way into her body. "Thanks."

King Poseidon sighed at the teens, hugging each other and exchanging farewells. He smiled at Tyson squeezing Percy, who was trying to pat him on the head despite his large size. "It puts a bit of a dent in our training program, doesn't it?"

"Yes…" Chiron looked at Piper. She had moved to the shore and was holding Leo in a tight embrace. "Though I must say… I think our new friend has much potential."

"Do you?" Poseidon scratched at his beard. "You know… Clarisse and her siblings are still very qualified candidates-"

"You have not met the girl. Or her brothers and sisters. Frank is lucky he is only their half-sibling."

"Gwen and Dakota are also-"

A cough stopped their conversation.

Gleeson Hedge stood waist-deep in the water (which, for the others, wasn't very deep) looking at the King anxiously. Piper and Jason came up to his sides and nudged him forward. "Your Highness… I know that I'm of no importance to you or your Kingdom, but I am important to this girl here." He put a hand on Piper's shoulder. "I've been trusted to take care of her, and I swore I'd do anything for her. I hope it's not too much trouble if I ask to continue being her protector in Atlantica."

His eyes briefly flickered over to Mellie. She gave him an encouraging smile. "I'll take whatever job you can give me. I'll work hard. All I ask is that I can stay by Piper and support her."

Poseidon and Chiron exchanged looks. "Well," the King beamed at Hedge. "It just so happens that we're expecting new recruits for our training program at the Palace. Chiron here is going to need all the help he can get."

Chiron held out his claw. "Welcome to the ocean, Gleeson."

The goodbyes weren't forever. Before leaving back to Atlantica, Poseidon declared that meeting points would be arranged at the surface above Atlantica once a month. (Leo promised to construct a boat that had a low deck, allowing for easy communication between the two groups.) After everyone disappeared in the water, Will and Reyna led the group back to the palace. Rooms were assigned to the newcomers until proper arrangements could be made, though it was likely everyone would grow attached to their new accommodations by morning.

Several days went by. Under the water, Poseidon initiated a new group of teenagers into the training program in an elaborate ceremony, Piper being the first sworn in. The King took the opportunity to explain everything to the kingdom, declaring Tyson as the new heir to the throne. Hedge quickly got the hang of working under Chiron, and when he wasn't occupied with training, he was spending time with Mellie, even if it meant helping her with her job, too.

On land, Reyna became the new trainer for the royal guard, replacing the position previously held by Hedge. Will had to do damage control for the aftermath of the disastrous wedding, which eventually led to him writing an outline for a speech Annabeth would give to the kingdom.

During the speech, she apologized for the hasty plan she'd thrown everyone into. She explained what had been going on since the shipwreck on her birthday, and presented Percy as an official royal suitor, promising that no last-minute weddings were planned for the near future. She also made Calypso her new lady in waiting, filling the spot Piper had left.

Before retreating back into the palace, she announced that a ball would be held for the newcomers and would serve as a celebration of the Princess picking a suitor.

A few more days went into planning. Suits and ball gowns had to be made. Food had to be prepped. Decorations had to be set. But when the night of the party finally came, there wasn't a single face without a smile.

Hazel gushed as she led Frank down the stairs to the ballroom. "Oh, and you'll love the orchestra. I'm sure you didn't have music like this in Atlantica. It's absolutely-"

"But, I don't know how to dance."

Hazel stopped. She didn't know why this fact never occurred to her. Of course Frank didn't know how to dance. He'd been human for just over a week. It's not like the chance had jumped out at them the past few days. Hazel straightened her coral colored dress. "I'll teach you. I promise I'll be patient-"

"It's not that- I know you'd be a great teacher. But…" he gestured into the busy room. A dozen skirts were already fanning out on the dance floor, Annabeth's one of them. The Princess' teal fabric sheets swayed to a beat that hadn't even arrived yet. Percy twirled her around, his boots keeping pace with everyone else. His royal blue suit didn't seem to constrict him.

"Oh… I see." Hazel turned back to him. "Frank- who cares about them? Percy had a head start, remember? You'll be fine." She stood up higher in her heels and kissed him.

He stood in shock for a long moment before growing disappointed at her pulling away. "Come on." She linked her arm with his. "Let's go find Leo and Calypso- I saw a peek of her dress yesterday. It's a gorgeous orange- almost like a fire opal…"

They disappeared inside. As the night went on, countless people moved in and out of the room, carrying plates of food or stepping outside to appreciate the view of the ocean from the courtyard.

Will was starting to make his way around the room, checking on the food and guests, when he caught a glimpse of Nico alone out on the long balcony.

He slipped outside, the chatter and music growing quiet as he approached the boy. Nico's suit was made of black fabric and gold embroidery, custom made from the royal tailors. The sight made Will's heart thump a bit harder in his chest.

"Hey," he said. He placed his arms on the edge of the balcony next to his, blue sleeves contrasting black. The last time he'd been out here was the night Annabeth was hypnotized by Kronos. He tried not to think about it. "What are you doing out here?"

Nico glanced back through the doors. He shrugged. "I've never really liked parties."

"But it's for you."

"And the others… mostly Percy…" He turned back to look at the ocean, his face growing emotionless.

Will quirked his lips and looked out with him. "You don't even want to make sure Hazel is okay? She and Frank haven't stopped dancing since they brought in the orchestra."

"Frank is the biggest softie I know." Nico gave a light smile. "I'm not worried about her."

Will grinned. "Yeah…." He thought about the merpeople-turned-humans. They gave up everything in Atlantica to be here. Even if they were happier, he couldn't help but wonder… "Do you miss it?"

Nico raised an eyebrow. "The ocean? I'm sure I will."

"You don't right now?"

"Not really… I lost my other sister before I could even know her. My father- well, it's a long story. There wasn't anything left for me down there. Hazel was a chance for me to get a new start. I think I'll like being human."

"How can you not?"

"I know Percy does."

Will looked through the doors. He spotted Percy with a plate of blue food, saying something to Annabeth. She laughed and stole one of her boyfriend's cookies.

"I'm glad she finally found someone," he said. "I was beginning to worry."

"You really wanted her to find a suitor, huh?"

"Well, I guess I just... I wanted her to start looking at suitors, not dismissing them without a glance like she had been."

"You didn't…" Nico hesitated, fear suddenly racing through his mind without apparent reason. "You didn't love her like that, right? You never wanted to be considered?"

"What? Gods, no!" Will started laughing. "No, no. Annabeth is definitely a sister figure. I've known her for years- we've been through a lot. I'm happy she and Percy are dating." He leaned his head in his hands. "Besides, girls aren't really my type."

He said this casually, as one would say, I don't really like strawberry ice cream.

Nico staggered in disbelief. "Really?"

"Yeah…" Will straightened back up. "But enough about me." He tapped Nico's shoulder. "Tonight is about you guys!"

"Oh, no, that's-"

"No, c'mon. I'm being rude." He gave another bright smile. "Tell me: what are you going to do, now that you're human?"

"You know… I've actually been thinking about it a lot. I want to join Reyna and the guards- stay a soldier, of sorts. Become a knight. I saw her during the battle- I think she has a few moves she can teach me."

"And take care of your sister, too, I assume? After all, she's the reason you became human."

"Yes, but…" Nico thought about Hazel. She'd practically been alone for over thirteen years. She worked at the palace, had a proper home, and was surrounded by a group of loving friends. The girl could obviously manage herself. "Hazel doesn't need to be looked after. I'm just here for support."

Will nodded in understanding.

Nico looked down at his feet (something he never thought he would do) and took a deep breath. The sea air and moonlight made the human world seem better than he ever could have imagined. "I really am here for a new start, though," he said. "On the beach a week ago, I realized that there's a lot this world has to offer. I think deep down I saw this as an opportunity to find a way to be accepted."

He looked at Will. His blue eyes somehow seemed brighter than when he first saw them two weeks ago. Was something like that even possible?

He forced himself to continue. "Form new friendships and stuff like that."

Will's smile evolved into something else- softer, more genuine. "Friendships?"

Nico tried to remember how to breathe. "Maybe Hazel isn't the only one I became human for."

He didn't remember getting so close. Will's faint freckles dotted his nose bridge. His breath smelled like apple cider.

Nico could feel him leaning closer before a clock inside chimed to declare the passing of a new hour, the noise cutting through their moment with several loud dings. Will gave a disappointed smile before taking a step back. "Um…" He gave a small laugh. "I should get back inside. Make sure there's still enough food out."

Nico looked down, his heart sinking. "Yes- of course. I'm sorry I distracted you."

Will grinned. "Don't be." He reached out and took Nico's hand and bowed down in a royal manner, placing a kiss on his fingers. "Until tomorrow."

He turned and walked inside, leaving Nico's face bright red as an era of peace began between the land and the sea.

I'm sorry it took so long to post this chapter. I had to rewrite most of the epilogue because what I had done before was really bad and short. Anyway, in this chapter I tried to incorporate a little bit of how Reyna and Thalia became good friends in the Blood of Olympus… I hope it worked out.

Heads up, there's a Magnus Chase spoiler in the last chapter. But if you paid any mind to my rant about MagnusxAlex sounding better as Malex and not Fierrochase… then I guess you know what the spoiler is XD (And those who have left reviews saying their ship name is Beatrice… I truly appreciate your existence. Really. You have to be DEDICATED to know that/where it comes from. I love y'all.)

I'm not sure if I've said this before in this story, but if you've seen Andi Mack on Disney Channel I have a series of Tyrus one-shots going if you want to read those :D just go to my profile.

Again, congrats to the entire fandom because we've got a reboot in the works! And, again, I hope everyone is still safe and practicing social distancing. And again, again, again, haha, please answer my question from the beginning of this chapter- I would really appreciate it!

~Reader4ever1