Author Note: This is purely a work of fanfiction, and this author does not own any recognizable character's from Harry Potter, Percy Jackson or Avengers.

The Law of Three

Prologue

It has been three days since Neo returned from Olympus and everything was more or less the same as before he had left. Most of the campers still thought that his Norse heritage meant he didn't belong there. Then there were others who thought that the Asgardians were lesser gods than those from Olympus so they took the chance to test his strength whenever they could. It wasn't a bad thing though, in the end Neo got the exercise and training he needed but that didn't change the fact that every one of the campers who had been his training and sparing partners were still "unable" (more like scared) to continue lessons. One good thing that had stayed the same was Constance, she was happy to see him because he was the only one she wanted riding her. The Pegasus had become loyal to him and only him.

Even his living arrangement was almost the same as before. Neo hadn't moved back into Cabin Eleven with all of the other demigod children acting strange around him still. It seemed Neo was destined to be separate from this group of people he was a part of just like he was in the Wizarding World, but this time he wouldn't even have "house mates". That didn't really bother him though because he much preferred the company of Loki, Jormungandr and Fenrir over the demigods of Camp Half-Blood, even with the odd behavior of the two Sons of Loki.

He sighed as he let his thoughts stew while he ate his breakfast. The other three in the room glanced at his melancholy form before returning to their own meals knowing they should just let him think. At least something's were different, even though any changes could be counted on one hand. One change involved the three new guests to his tent, whom had fallen into a routine around him.

Loki would stay in the tent for a few hours after breakfast and enjoy his time as he studied and learned new types of magic from the books Neo would loan him from his trunk. In the afternoons he would spend time training Neo in Æsir magic and anything he had learned from what he read beforehand. Neo knew Loki would usually leave before noon and not return until those lessons. He decided that Loki must be keeping an eye on Asgard because sometimes he would return with something that was alien to Earth, or with a very sour attitude which was usually accompanied by a lack of a small trinket. But as Loki never cared to share his activities with Neo, the young god figured that it was better to not ask about them.

Jormungandr and Fenrir both chose to spend time running around in the woods. Fenrir had commented once that he found it exciting to kill the monsters that lurked around the camp, and Jormungandr explained that because the woods where thick that many of the Greek monster took up refuge in the trees and away from mortals. But, just like Loki, Fenrir and Jormungandr took the chance to continue Neo's training.

The wolf god took his cousin for runs after his training with Loki where they ran the perimeter of Camp Half-Blood. Fenrir loved being able to change into his wolf form when they ran. The first time they ran together was a surprise for both of them. It was the same pace they had left off on before their trip to the Lotus Casino, but Fenrir soon found out it was too easy of a pace. The new god found himself having to exert himself less than before, so Neo ran faster and faster until he disappeared in a flash. As the Son of Hermes Neo was able to travel as fast as his Dad, and when he tried to stop in shock he tripped and tumbled across the ground for a long time before he came to a stop as he collided with the base of a tree. He had only received a few scraps but his clothes had been torn and were no longer wearable. Luckily the jacket he always wore was fine. The tree wasn't well either, and had a dent in its trunk. After that they worked on controlling his speed, agility, reflexes and running skills that would improve his foot work and help him dodge or change course without losing speed. Fenrir was still able to keep up with Neo but he didn't know how long that would last because the wolf was sure that his cousin kept getting faster and faster.

Jormungandr kept teaching him hand-to-hand and they had just finished the basic striking and grappling/wrestling techniques where he learned weak points. He was also making Neo practice meditation along with gymnastic moves and stretches, as a cool down after his runs to help him focused and balance his energies while keeping him limber. For the next few weeks Neo would learn more formal techniques like western Boxing, Taekwondo, Karate, Muay Tai, Judo, Sumo, Aikido, Brazilian Jiujitsu and even Tai Chi plus anything else that Jormungandr felt Neo could learn and master. And thanks to Neo's physique he had the potential for a lot of things; because he was both strong thanks to Thor's genetics increasing his muscle strength without giving him unnecessary bulk, and agile due to his inheritance from Hermes. The older and larger god had showed him a few Muay Tai moves that he practiced on trees. When Jormungandr broke a pine tree in half Neo was impressed. The Midgard Serpent was even more impressed with Neo when they started training again, because since his ascension into godhood Neo had become even stronger and more skilled at picking things up quickly. He knew that it would only be a matter of time before Neo had developed his own style of fighting, which would be the next step once he mastered what Jormungandr had to teach him.

Besides the addition of the three new gods and his extra training only three things had significantly changed at camp; (1) Luke was spending even more time with him than before meaning they worked on weapons training and Luke gave him a crash course in being a normal teenager by doing almost everything Neo had never done before such as skateboarding, water skiing, going into the city to play at the arcade, and anything else they could think of while they were out; (2) once Hephaestus had sent Clarisse's spear and Neo placed a very strong unbreakable charm on it, he gave it to Clarisse who showed her gratitude by rendering one of her brothers unconscious when he made the mistake of talking badly about Neo where Clarisse could hear, but when Neo found out about it Clarisse was very insistent that it didn't make them friends because she was just "teaching him some respect", and (3) Percy wasn't as distant as before and they had quickly gone from allies to friends thanks to Neo's generally friendly attitude toward people and his ability to accept anyone he met because no matter what, Grover would always be Percy's best friend.

Percy was happy that he had another friend. He liked talking to Neo and when the other would tell him about the Wizarding World Percy would feel like he was listening to some story plot for a fantasy novel, even though he had seen the gods of Olympus who weren't supposed to exist either. It shocked Percy that people beside his Mom could be as nice and understanding as Neo, but that wasn't all; Neo was strong, smart, loyal, always fought fair, and even though he could stop a boulder like it was nothing Neo was always careful when they were sparing.

Their sparing matches were something else that Percy liked. Neo was a really good instructor which was probably because it was just him and Percy working together, but Percy always felt like he had gotten more out of the lessons with Neo than anyone else. He could see the difference between Neo and Annabeth the most when he compared how they acted while sparing. Neo was more concerned about Percy and if he understood the lesson. In the end Annabeth may have been teaching him how to fight, but Percy was sure she was more concerned about showing off what she knew and proving that she was more experienced than him.

Even though Luke was finally out of Cronus' control, Clarisse was being civil for once, and Percy was quickly becoming his friend, things hadn't really changed. If the last three days had taught Neo anything it was that nothing was going to change. So there he was eating breakfast in a tent next to a Camp that wasn't as homey as it was before and wondering what he was still doing there.

Chiron was still teaching him but the lessons were later that morning and gave him three hours that he would have to wait. It wasn't actually that long of a wait and he could usually find something to do, but Neo was starting to get that feeling again. The one that makes him antsy, and he usually gets it just before some life threatening adventure. It's like an early warning signal and it always goes away as soon as the danger presents itself.

Today that feeling was pulling him toward something he couldn't describe. He pushed it to the back of his mind just like he usually did, but something happened this time that had never happened before. Neo had just finished breakfast and was stepping out of the tent when he felt a sudden strengthening of the connection between him and Death that caused him to almost trip before he heard Death speak to him.

"Neo! I need your help, come quickly!" Death was almost screaming in his head but she was graciously suppressing her message so that it didn't hurt him.

'What are you talking about? Where…,' but he hadn't even finished the thought before he felt a shift under his feet and he was suddenly standing in the middle of the desert.

"Bollocks," he whispered as he looked around at what was happening. A small battle was being waged between what Neo understood as a possible terrorist cell (because he was pretty sure that normal people didn't camp out in remote locations with that much fire power sitting all over the place) and a big robot.

After quickly observing the fight he realized that his sudden presence had gone unnoticed, which was definitely a good thing with all of the bullets flying around because that was dangerous enough without people actually pointing the weapon at him on purpose. Neo quickly ducked behind a crate and finally his gaze landed on Death who appeared next to his crouched form.

"Get down," he said and pulled her arm making her kneel to keep from falling. "What's going on?"

"Don't worry, Master. I made sure that we can't get hit. When I pulled you here I activated the Death Ring with the intention of being incorporeal, didn't I tell you it could do that?" she asked sheepishly.

Neo stared at her with his mouth open for a moment before he answered, "No I'm pretty sure you forgot to mention that part."

"Oops, the ring doesn't just turn you invisible, like the cloak did; it can put you between the Realms of the living and dead where you won't be affected by anything. Mortals call it Limbo, and you could even walk through walls, it's like we're ghosts. I do it all the time," she smiled and stood up before she stepped into the path of one of the gunmen and he passed right through her. "Anyway, I'm here to claim the souls of these terrible men and I'll be putting them to good use when I get back to my Realm. But I need your help to keep that man alive," she told him then pointed at what he had thought was a metal robot earlier which was using a flame thrower to set everything on fire.

"Are you talking about that hunt of junk?" he questioned, his tone clearly showing confusion.

"It's not junk, it's a work of genius or a genius if you wanted to get technical. There's a man in that suit of armor and he built it out of spare missile parts while he was being held captive and tortured by these men," she waved around at the terrorists, "who were supposed to kill him but instead they kept him alive and were trying to force him into building a very powerful missile for them. He is currently succeeding in his escape and I think he is doing a very good job given the circumstances."

"Alright I get your point, but uh…what am I doing here? You kinda forgot to mention that," he noted with a sarcastic smirk.

"Oh! Well like I said, I'm here for those souls that will be passing on, but a last minute change in schedule has left quite a problem. You see he should have escaped by now but he stopped when his fellow prisoner was shot and he will still be able to escape but the biggest problem is what will happen after. The same energy powering the suit is what's keeping him alive so when that energy is gone he will die. But he must live," she reached out and took his hand. "I'm asking you, please keep him alive."

Neo really didn't have to think about it. He knew if Death said that this guy was supposed to live then it was important and Neo would do everything possible to make sure whoever it was stayed alive. But there was one question he needed answered first. "I'll do it, but who is this guy anyway?"

"His name is Anthony Stark," she stopped when a roaring noise started to come from the direction of the suit of armor. A cloud of hot dirt was gathering around the feet of the giant metal suit as it began to lift into the air, "and he's leaving, hurry."

Neo nodded and took off into the air but didn't get far before Death sent a message through the connection again, "One more thing. These men still have the possibility of living, but they should die," Death was quiet after that and she gazed meaningfully into Neo's eyes communicating without words what she meant.

Neo flinched back when he understood. Was she really asking him to give the order to kill everyone here? Neo suddenly felt cold, he was no stranger to people dying or even taking a life, but to order Death was a big step. Neo understood that he would eventually have to make this decision, when Death had first hinted at his responsibilities as Master of Death and how anything he decided to command Death to do she would have to, but he didn't know what to do now.

He thought over his answer carefully before saying, "I'm not you, and I don't know what's best. I can't see into the future or measure the value of a soul, all I can say is…I give you permission to do what you think is right."

He could see the smile on Death's face as she told him, "Well said, now go."

Neo silently turned and followed the smoke trail left by the armor's rockets, and even though his mind was a little numb he could feel a spark of warm pride blossom in his chest but he soon figured out that it was coming from the other side of his connection with Death.

He silently followed Anthony for awhile until the man and suit started to fall to the ground. Neo acted quickly, while deactivating the ring he flew toward the suit grabbing it before it picked-up too much speed. Holding the hulking armor as he let his power over the wind lower them slowly to the ground, Neo thought it was odd that the armor didn't weigh that much. With its size though the armor should be heavy, so Neo guessed it must be him. Had he really gotten so strong? With his feet touching the ground Neo gently lowered his cargo onto the sand.

Death had said that some energy was powering the suit but he couldn't sense any electricity coming from it. There wasn't any noise coming from the man inside the suit so he must have been unconscious or dead. That thought set Neo into action.

He searched for some way to get the man out but he could see that the suit was bolted together. In desperation he grabbed the metal helmet with his hands and tore it off. Neo checked for a pulse and placed his hand over Anthony's face to see if he could feel air. Nothing. Neo grabbed the neck and shoulder and ripped off the chest plate. That was when he saw something that would have disturbed his dreams if he still dreamed like a mortal. In the middle of the other mans chest was a small round machine. It must have been the power source because Neo could feel a faint spark coming from the disc, but that was slowly dwindling as time passed.

He didn't want to apply pressure to the man's chest incase he accidently broke the device or damaged the other's ribs, so traditional CPR was out but Neo remembered that you could use electricity to restart a heart. So he slowly channeled magic and felt for his connection with lightning then summoned a small lightning bolt that hit the device. The still body suddenly jerked and the device gave a small glow. 'Just a little more,' Neo thought as he sent another jolt into the device. This time it was a little brighter. Neo changed tactics and used his power to send a rhythmic pulse of power into the machine and as it slowly started to get brighter the jolt was stimulating the heart. The device powered up and the man started to breathe again. Neo heaved a sigh of relief and his shoulders sagged as he relaxed.

"Well don't you look worse for wear," Neo said as he sat back and looked at the man. Anthony's lips where chapped and his face was covered in dirt, bruises in different stages of healing, and abrasions. Neo knew what had happened because he could read the patterns of the bruises, they were almost circular and concentrated on the cheek and jaw area. The man in front of him was dehydrated, probably malnourished and had been used as a punching bag but he was still alive and he had escaped on his own. Anthony Stark was not a push over that's for sure. Neo smiled grimly, he was quickly being reminded of the Wizarding War, and he was drawing too many similarities between himself and this man.

"Well you owe me one Anthony," Neo said and viewed the surroundings, "but you're not out of the woods yet. We need to find help."

With the older man still unconscious Neo started to strip the armor off. When he was done Neo packed it up into his locket, and praised his paranoid tendency of keeping most of his things with him wherever he went because the only thing he didn't have right now was his tent. Armor packed he hefted his unconscious traveling companion onto his back and with his instinctual sense of direction he got from Hermes, Neo started walking.

*Break*

Tony had a few moments where he swam through the thick fog of unconsciousness into consciousness, but he couldn't make sense of what was going on. He felt like he was moving but no one was hitting him awake so he hadn't passed out from torture again.

He was a little more coherent the fourth time and when he saw the light of day he tried to make a run for it hoping he could get away from whoever had him. But all he succeeded in doing was falling onto the sand. He didn't feel so good after his landing and he knew he was being pulled back into unconsciousness again but a shadow passed over him again and he struggled to open his eyes. Tony saw the most beautiful long black-lashed emerald eyes he had ever seen before he was out like a light, and the last thing he thought was that he had defied his expectations and made it into heaven.

Neo knew it wasn't good. It seemed that Anthony had a concussion. As he knelt over the downed man Neo saw him open his eyes for a few seconds before he passed out again. Running his hands soothingly through the dirty black hair of the other man Neo wished he knew healing spells that could work. But thanks to the books from Hecate he knew that magic could work without an incantation if the intent was strong enough, so Neo focused on what he wanted. Heal, repair, renew, with his focus on these simple words magic flowed out in golden swirls and sunk below the skin under his fingers. Seeing that it was working Neo moved closer and then bent down to cradle Anthony's head in his hands as he moved the man's torso onto his lap. He let his magic fulfill his wish. When the magic started to feel like it was slowing Neo moved his hands down Anthony's arms and over his chest avoiding the metal in the center. It knit the torn muscles back together, repaired the broken blood vessels, and mended the fractured and cracked ribs. Neo could feel it, he had been developing a deeper connection to his magic and he could feel it moving through the other man's body.

Magic had always been a part of his life but Neo felt like it was evolving into something more than it was before. Just like his Mage Sight had slowly grown to be able to do more, his magic kept changing. It was like it was connected to his nerve endings now and when it moved he could feel what it was touching like it was his own hand, his own senses.

While he was meditating during a lesson with Jormungandr he found out something strange, his magic was semi-sentient. After that Neo had been thinking about it often. His magic was being connected to his instincts; it was like his unconscious thoughts had been tied to his magic and sometimes it had even reacted without him using a spell. He remembered the stray arrow that had almost shot him in the back of the neck just the day before. His instincts told him that there was incoming danger and before he could utter the shield spell a strong shield appeared and a protective feeling thrummed through his core.

After that day he noticed how his senses would find possible dangers and his magic would awaken at his slightest thought. His mind and magic were becoming one and he didn't know how to feel about it before, but as he embraced the feeling of his magic healing Stark it seemed to solidify into place and balanced out. Neo felt his magic like he felt his fingers.

When he was done healing Anthony, Neo tested his magic. Instead of thinking about a spell he thought about moving it like a hand as he decided on making sparks in the air he saw small flashes of light appear in front of his face. The he thought of conjuring a bird and out of thin air a small finch appeared and flew away.

Neo's eyes widened that had never happened before, "Wow," he muttered and then a childish grin spread across his face. 'One more test,' he thought. Then he thought about something he wanted to happen.

A small mound of sand started to swirl in a little tornado, and then it turned into a small sandy dog that started to bounce around in the air. As he willed it to change shape Neo felt like a little kid again. He gathered more sand with a thought and turned them into different animals making them run around through the air and play tag. He laughed out loud but decided that that was enough. Most of the sand fell back onto the ground but a small ball of sand came closer, and Neo watched as his magic turned it into a tiny copy of the armor that he had in his locket before the sand became glass. He plucked the figurine out of the air and put it in his pocket.

"Now that's magic," he whispered as he smiled down at the sleeping man before a pout showed on his face, "and you weren't even watching. You're such a bad audience Anthony," Neo teased the unconscious man.

He realized he had taken enough of a break and lifted the sleeping man into his arms carrying him like a bride as he continued toward what he hoped was a place where he could find help. To fight off the heat, Neo beckoned a cool breeze to follow them as they traveled and he formed a sand cloud to shade them from direct sunlight.

Soon after that he heard a helicopter in the distance and he could almost see a small spot on the horizon, but it was still very far away. It seemed to be circling around and would soon be heading in their direction.

Neo laid Anthony on the ground and slowly woke him up with his magic. As the older man's eyes opened Neo looked into his eyes and cast a memory spell on him, "You walked here from where you crashed after your escape. Right now you're very exhausted from the long walk and you're going to sleep for a little while."

Deep in a trance, Anthony nodded and slowly sunk back into the sand as he closed his eyes. Neo sat there and provided shade until the helicopter started getting close enough that the men inside would see them. He banished the cloud and hid under an illusion that made him look like a sand dune and watched as Anthony was picked up by a man who seemed to be his friend.

Seeking out Death through there connection he told her, 'I'm finished here, so I'll be heading back to camp before I'm late for my lessons with Chiron.'

A feeling of thanks came with Death's reply, "That's good news, thank you, Master."

With that he was gone, teleporting back to the entrance of Camp Half-Blood.

*Break*

Tony Stark sat in his private plane trying to drink away the last few days and the memories were slowly starting to dull for a minute, but he couldn't bring himself to close his eyes and it wasn't actually flashbacks to the cave. It wasn't the pain either, because he was feeling fine and he had gotten his butt kicked plenty of times while he was in school thanks to his attitude.

Every time he closed his eyes he saw the most beautiful pair of green eyes he had ever seen. But the thing keeping him awake was the sound of a voice. He couldn't remember the words but when he closed his eyes he could see those two shining emeralds, and he heard that soothing voice again. But the harder he tried to remember the more he got frustrated that he couldn't remember and it was keeping him awake.

Sometime later Tony had finally succeeded in falling asleep and he dreamed of green eyes and a soothing voice while a feeling of peace kept him from waking.

*Break*

Elric followed after his young Lord as they exited the bank they had been in for the last two hours. His young master had all of his affairs in order now. A sizable amount of money in the billions had been put into an account that Neo was given a card to (and he still had the infinite money on the Lotus Casino card). That's when Elric thought back to the conversation he had with Lady Death.

*Flashback*

"That folder contains all of the correct documentation for one Neo Evan Thorson; a 17 year old young man with dual-citizenship in Britain and America, who's Father and Mother died in a home invasion and has been taken care of for the last 16 years by his guardian while they traveled around the world. Thankfully I have ways of making sure that the paperwork is not questioned. It lists Neo as a recently emancipated minor who was under the care of Azrael Nightshade until he turned 17. Even the world Governments will find everything in order. I ask that once you arrive you make sure that Neo receives the folder, and that he goes to the bank listed to have those accounts turned over to him, as soon as possible. These accounts are under the Aliases for his parents and have been set up as an inheritance, it is already stipulated that when he turns 17 he will have access to those accounts. Here take this," she handed over a photo, "It's the alley next to the bank so Neo will be able to just "pop in". Everything is his and his alone," she turned to look Elric in the eye. "I will hold you responsible for punishing anyone who dares to trick him into giving his money, or anything else, to an unworthy cause."

"Of course, I would never let my young Lord be taken for a fool by a plebian, mortal or otherwise," Elric responded.

"Good once he has his money situated I will leave the decision up to him if he wants to invest it or not. You may leave now. I trust you remember where to find him?" Death finished.

"Yes, Lady Death," with a final bow Elric was gone.

Elric had gone straight to Camp Half-Blood after his meeting with Death. The Spirits arrival was quiet as he passed through the barrier of the Camp, and he was able to find his young Master quickly.

It was when he decided to announce his presence to his new Master that the trouble started.

Elric walked out from the shade of a tree as he watched his Master move gracefully while he spared with another teenager. Neo wasn't the first person to notice him though.

Luke had a group of younger kids he was teaching and he was the first one to notice the white haired guy step out of the shadows and when he started to walk toward Neo while his brothers back was turned Luke moved to stop him. As he ran to intercept the new man, Luke saw how his eyes never left Neo.

'This guys giving me bad vibes,' Luke told himself. And the man's eyes set off his instinct to kill a threat, because Luke had only seen eyes like that on a monster.

Luke swung his sword at the monster trying to kill it while it was distracted but in a blur the man brought his arm up and intercepted his sword with a small dagger.

While Luke was putting as much pressure into the blade his opponent seemed to barely exert himself and thankfully that was when Neo noticed something wrong as all the other kids started to react to the stranger.

Neo turned and saw what was going on. "Stop," he yelled hoping that Luke would listen to him, but Luke was not the first one to react to his command.

Elric jumped out of Luke's range and sheathed his dagger in its hiding place so quickly no one saw exactly where it had disappeared to.

The spirit bowed to his Master, which angered Luke due to being so casually dismissed as a threat.

The young god stopped his half-brother from striking out at the spirit again, before he quickly explained why Elric was there by saying he was a gift/bodyguard and was there to work as his servant.

Luke apologized to Neo instead of the one he attacked like he would have, which was a notion that passed over the spirits head, as he was under the belief that as a guardian the attacker was supposed to apologize to the Master that the servant belonged to. It was a case of cultural difference and Neo was pretty sure he was the only one who got it.

*End of Flashback*

After the incident at camp Elric gave the folder to Neo and they had quickly left for California, Neo hoping they could avoid any more trouble and Elric loyally following his Master's orders.

After saving a man the day before Neo wasn't looking forward to today since it had started out so badly. The worst part was that he still had that bad feeling.

As they stepped off the sidewalk to cross the street Elric saw a car coming toward them, they were the only two crossing and the car tried to stop but it would have hit them if Elric hadn't grabbed his young Lord and quickly got them both out of the way.

Elric let Neo down on his feet and they both glanced at the two men who were getting out of the car.

Happy Hogun's heart was still pounding as he got out of the vehicle to see if the two men he had almost hit were alright. Tony got out of the other side of the car and they both walked to the men on the sidewalk.

"I'm so sorry, are you alright?" Happy asked.

Neo gave a blasé smile, "I'm fine, it's a good thing my new bodyguard is very good at his job," he laughed. It was actually funny because he really hadn't needed Elric's help but it did keep him from having to use magic in public. He thought it was ironic to be more worried about what would happen if he had tried to save himself than the fact he had almost been run over.

They stood there in silence which Happy felt was weird, since he knew his boss hated awkward silences. Happy looked over and noticed that the genius was standing there with a shocked look on his face.

Of course Tony was shocked he hadn't expected the emerald eyes and voice that had been haunting his dreams to show-up on an attractive male face and coming from a man his bodyguard had almost run over.

Tony Stark being the man he was, wasn't left speechless for long, "That's good because it would be a terrible thing to have a bodyguard that was bad at his job. I mean Happy here may occasionally try to run over strangers but he's still my go to guy."

"Gee, thanks Boss," Happy spoke in a melancholy tone.

"No, don't worry. Honestly, it is fine and I'm sure it was a mistake," he gave the older man a reassuring smile, "It's Happy, right?" He held out his hand and when the driver nodded Neo made the proper introductions, "I'm Neo Thorson and this is my butler and bodyguard Elric Graves."

Elric nodded, "Pleasure," he said in his deep silky tone.

"Likewise," Tony said with a raised eyebrow, "Is it a prerequisite for butlers to be so formal, because even my A.I. Jarvis sounds like that, but I designed and programmed him." Tony turned to Neo, "So where were you headed before you met me? Which should be the highlight of your day, really, meaning it's all downhill from here. Tony Stark, just call me Tony," Tony gave Neo a confident smile as they shook hands, and that was when Happy got the feeling his boss was flirting with the guy standing in front of him.

"Neo, and actually I wasn't really planning on going anywhere. Maybe just walk around the city and then grabbing something to eat before I find a hotel. I'm from New York…" Neo was cut off in the middle of his cover story by Tony.

"Well then, why don't I give you a ride? I have a quick press conference but after that I can take you out to lunch as an apology? How does a burger sound?" Tony offered. He didn't know why this guy was stuck in his head but he wouldn't let him leave after literally meeting "the man of his dreams".

"Uhm," Neo hesitated and looked at Elric.

Thinking he was helping Elric informed his Master, "There is nothing else planned for this morning. You are free to join Mr. Stark."

"So that's a yes?" Tony wheedled.

"Yes," Neo replied, as he admired Tony's charisma of a man who is so used to getting what he wants. It was also good to see that he was doing well considering the first time Neo met him the day before but there were shadows darkening his eyes. As expected Tony was suffering from his captivity, and Neo could see the front that Tony was putting up so he took down a mental note to break down that particular mask.

They were all in Tony's car with Happy and Elric in the front before Tony asked, "I can tell that you're from England. Are you just in California sightseeing?"

"Oh no, I recently moved to New York, but I had to come to the west coast for business. Though I won't be here for long I have to head back to New York soon, you see my Uncle and Cousins are coming to visit and I plan to travel back with them when they head home. I'll stay a little while at their place. It's a small vacation really, before I come back to the U.S. and see what I will do with the rest of my life."

"So I am guessing you moved? What brings you here? Family?" Tony asked hoping to get more information out of the younger man.

"Oh no. I've been living with a guardian since I was small and we've been traveling, but I turned 17 a little while ago and decided that I would take my inheritance and settle down for a few years hopefully." Neo replied.

"And you chose New York?"

Neo just smiled, "Someone suggested it." And he was starting to think that the reason he had to travel across the whole United States of America wasn't such a coincidence, Death was up to something.

Their conversation continued until Neo asked Tony what he did for work to afford a "fancy car and driver". Tony saw the honestly curious look on Neo's face and was surprised that someone actually didn't know him.

"Well I'm Tony Stark. Most people call me a genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist, and they seem to be impressed," he gloated.

"Well that does sound impressive, but what do I care about what other people think. If we're going to be friends Tony, I think you should now that I do not put my faith in what other people say. I was well know and a little bit of a celebrity while I was living in London, and the only things popular opinion taught me, were people give their opinions on things they know nothing about while most of the time news papers say whatever they have to, to sell issues. I didn't ask what other people say about you, I asked you about what you do." The smile that spread across Neo's face made Tony falter for a moment, it was teasing and sarcastic and completely genuine. At that second Tony promised himself that if his attitude didn't scare Neo off, he would keep the other around.

"I used to work on designing weapons for my company," Neo noticed the tone of Tony's voice change.

"Used to?" he questioned.

"I'm thinking about changing things, it will probably have the board members jumping ship but I'm not going to back down. That's part of the reason for the press conference."

"Hmm…well I don't know too much about it, but if your company starts loosing investors I know what I'll be investing in," Neo glanced at the front passenger seat, "My guardian did express her wishes for me to invest my money, right Elric?"

"Yes, my Lord," the white haired man replied.

Tony looked surprised, "You don't need to do that I'm sure I'll be able to pick the company back up with some of the projects I can come up with."

"I know that. I just want to stick it to them by buying up the stock they will be selling cheep and then watch as you make my investment triple later. I'm a little vindictive when it comes to dealing with disloyal people, and the fact that I will never sell those shares back makes me happy inside." Neo gave his imitation of the grin he learned from Magnum, it was almost scary with how vicious it seemed.

"That's a lot of faith from someone who doesn't know me," Tony said questioningly.

"I'm a good judge of character, and that's because it doesn't take me long to understand people. So far I know that you are a different man from who you were before, and right now you're trying to figure out whom that new man you saw in the mirror this morning is. I may not know you and you may need some time to know yourself, but there's nothing about you that tells me I can't trust you, and until I feel otherwise I won't be changing my mind."

Tony was speechless for a minute before the car came to a stop outside of the building Tony's press conference would be held in. They all got out of the car and walked inside.

Neo and Elric were introduced to Ms. Pepper Potts before the conference began, and stood near her waiting for Tony to give his speech.

That's how they met one Agent Phil Coulson with the Strategic Homeland Intervention Enforcement and Logistics Division. It seemed that the agent was hoping to "debrief" Tony on how he escaped, which Neo understood as them asking questions that seemingly had no relevance and then putting it in a file that would hopefully never see the light of day again. It was the reason Neo really did not like governments, most of the time a governments priorities were not the things he would spend time focusing on. Instead of worrying about how Tony escaped, they should be wondering how Tony was caught. Usually a countries military would be prepared for an attack on foreign soil so how did the ambush happen in the first place? Neo knew something was wrong but he didn't have any information, yet. But the agent left quickly and the conference started.

There was so much that Tony hadn't said, Neo knew, and it looked like there were even more things he had been carrying with him about his father. The end of Tony's speech wasn't a surprise to Neo because Tony had mentioned it before. Still Neo turned to Elric, "Are you familiar with the stock market of this world?"

"Yes, my Lord. I have been to this world before and I have learned everything I would need to in order to serve my Master. I assume you would like me to start buying those shares?" he informed Neo.

"Yes, all the shares that come available. Tony will need someone to help keep his Company financially stable and as much as Mr. Stane seems willing to run interference, I think it would be best to lend a hand. Once you have bought all available stock I would like you to arrange for any stock owned by parties who are only concerned with the future of the company due to their own financial gain, to be bought as well."

Elric gave a small bow and left. He seemed to disappear in the crowd and reached the bank that they had left earlier in the next second. By the time he left Neo would have a 39% investment in Stark Enterprises. The other 61% belonging mostly to Tony and 10% of that to Obadiah Stane, which eliminated the board members from the equation and would drive Obadiah crazy trying to get into contact with the man who had bought the rest of the company shares.

A couple of seconds after Elric left Neo, Tony had taken Neo back to the car through the chaos of the reporters. They sat in silence for a second before Tony turned to Neo.

"So about that burger?"

Neo laughed, "Sounds good, but you're buying, alright?"

"You got it. Happy we're going to make a stop on the way back to the house," Tony announced and Happy just nodded and kept an eye out for a drive-thru burger joint.

"Oh but, I would hate to impose and I would need to find a place to stay before it gets too late," Neo tried to excuse himself but Tony wasn't worried.

"Then I guess you and your bodyguard will just have to stay at my place," he grinned. "I think that it's the least I can do for what happened before. Right, Hap?"

The man in the driver seat just nodded, "Whatever you say, Boss?"

*Break*

They had been at Tony's home, which was on a cliff to Neo's surprise, for an hour before Elric showed up. Neo had felt bad that Elric hadn't eaten yet but his servant just dismissed it with his usual charm and humility and went to the kitchen to get something from the fridge. Neo could hear Elric talking to who he thought must be Jarvis; Neo was introduced to the A.I. when they arrived. It was a lovely home and Tony quickly decided that he would show his wide-eyed guest the rest of it. They had gone up to the floors above the ground floor before making their way to the basement.

When they entered Tony's workshop Neo was having the time of his life. It was so surprising to see the things Tony had made for his home and when he saw all of the inventions lying around on the work tables it was like walking into the genius' head. There were fascinating and interesting gadgets and Tony was wearing a smug look as Neo marveled at everything.

Neo laughed in childish joy when he bumped into a small machine that turned out to be a cute little robot who made mechanical noises like it was talking. It seemed that the robot was just as curious about Neo, when it started using its metal arm to prod gently at his arms and it raised its camera high enough to see Neo's face and then it got close enough that Neo had to move back before he got hit on the noise by accident.

"Would you stop that," Tony chided. The small robot made an unhappy noise but it soon turned into happy noises as it did the same thing to Tony which had Neo laughing again.

"I think he's cute and he reminds me of a friend, his name was Dobby," Neo said.

"Yeah, well this is Dummy and he takes after his namesake."

"What a coincidence, their names almost sound the same," Neo smiled as he looked over to Tony. The spark of happiness in his eyes and his flushed cheeks made Tony smile. "Did you make him?"

"Yeah I made him when I was a kid. I should have scraped him a long time ago but I keep him around." Tony walked over to his computers and started pulling up different information. Tony hadn't told him to leave but Neo decided to say, "I can leave if you're busy, or stay and help if you need an extra set of hands?"

"Not right now, I'm only in the designing stages so I have a lot of data to put into the computer, but you don't have to go." Tony walked away from the computers and up to Neo, "Excuse me," he said while reaching for a tablet that he had left on a bench that the younger man was standing in front of. Neo didn't have time to move and Tony's chest brushed against his arm. An electric shock hit the metal ring in Tony's chest and they both jumped.

"Sorry," Neo said, "I must have built up some static, I guess?"

Tony cleared his throat, "Yeah."

"It looks like it's a little crowded for two," Neo licked his lips and Tony glanced at the now shining lips. "I'll just get out of your way I'm sure I can find something to do up stairs." Neo said and quickly retreated out of the room before Tony could stop him. The genius was conflicted between his need to start work and the want to follow after the younger man. Tony finally decided that he would work now and play later, which was unusual for him.

Neo set his foot down on the 1st floor and pulled out his phone deciding that he would text Loki who was the only other number programmed into his phone besides Hermes.

*I won't be able to make it back tonight, don't wait up. – N*

*Why? Nothing's wrong I trust? – L*

*Not, yet. – N*

*I just told the others the distressing news. They have expressed how terribly they will miss sleeping with you :) – L*

*That sounds so wrong and you said it on purpose! – N*

*I am a god of Mischief and Chaos, it's in my nature. Be safe and call if you need anything. – L*

*I will, see you when I get back. – N*

With Loki's accepting attitude and the way he tended to let Neo do his own thing it was easy for them to get along. But he also had to send a message to Remus who would tell Sirius, Chiron, Luke and Percy. He told Jarvis he was taking a quick walk outside to look around and he would be back, while he was out he sent the message that would reach them in a few minutes. His phone buzzed a little later and he looked to see a new message.

*Hey, bro. I guess I forgot to give you my number. Remus just told me you would be gone for awhile. It wouldn't have anything to do with a girl, would it? ;) Don't worry you don't have to tell me, just have a good time and stay safe. I'll see you later. – Luke*

Neo just rolled his eyes and sent a message back,

*No, sorry for bursting your bubble but I just got caught up in something. I'll be fine so I'll see you when I make it back. – N*

He programmed Luke's number into his phone bringing the total number of contacts to a whopping three. He felt kind of cynical about it when he realized that three was the most he had ever had.

Neo walked back inside and into the kitchen to find Elric. It seemed that the resourceful Spirit had found the supplies to make tea. A plate of cinnamon cookies that must have come out of a box sat on the table, and actually complimented the ginger and chamomile tea that Elric had given Neo. All of those ingredients insured whoever enjoyed them would feel very comfortable, and probably fall asleep.

"Should I take some to Mr. Stark, sir?" Elric asked indifferently, which was a dead giveaway of his intentions; it seemed that Elric was a mother hen.

The thought made him smile and Neo was going to reply when he was interrupted by the front door opening. He went to check the entrance through the kitchen door and found Obadiah Stane walking in with a pizza box. Jarvis must have told Tony that Obadiah was there, because the genius came upstairs a few minutes later. The two long time friends started having a chat.

It was difficult not to hear what they were saying and after a few minutes Neo didn't care, he started listening intently as Obadiah questioned Tony about his escape and the machine that he had built. Obadiah tried to get Tony to share his research but the younger refused.

Even if he had been intentionally eavesdropping on the conversation, Neo was very relieved when Obadiah left. It was one thing to meet someone who gives off bad vibes, but it's a whole different story when you meet someone that makes you want to leave the country. It was almost as bad as the first time he met Luke while he was being possessed.

With Obadiah gone Tony headed back to the lab, something was up and it made him wonder what his dad's old partner was up to. He had just started working on the specs for the original suit he built in the desert again, when he heard Jarvis.

"Sir, I believe you have a visitor."

Turning, Tony saw Neo and Elric standing behind him. The latter was carrying a tray with a steaming cup and what looked like the cookies Pepper usually bought and stashed in Tony's kitchen. Elric held out the cup and Tony thinking it was coffee accepted it and took a sip. He had to stop himself from spitting it back out, he had not been expecting tea.

A mischievous grin slowly spread across Neo's face as he watched Tony's eyes widen. Tony was an American and Neo knew that most of them drank coffee because they ran on caffeine and couldn't appreciate a good cup of tea. Tony saw his face and gave a mild glare, causing Neo to laugh.

"It's just a little snack before you go to bed, Anthony. You don't need coffee at this time of night," Neo informed his somewhat surly companion.

"I'm pretty sure the last time I checked, I was an adult so I know when my bedtime is, thanks. And I'm pretty sure that I've pulled more all nighters than you. I know what I'm doing." Tony said before he got a curious look on his face when he noticed something Neo had said. "I never told you my name was Anthony. I try not to mention that to people because I prefer Tony."

"That would be my doing. Earlier I informed, my Lord, of what I had found out about you. Among the things I mentioned, was the fact your name is Anthony Edward Stark. After all, you did express that you where well known and I thought that some factual information should be shared now to get it out of the way later." His voice had remained the same and even Tony's high tech security hadn't called Elric out on his blatant lie.

"Yeah, but someone also said that he didn't care what other people thought," Tony turned to Neo.

The new god just rolled his eyes, "I don't care for gossip, but I'm sorry if you're angry, Tony. I just wanted to know you a little better," Neo said while pointedly looking away from Tony.

'Ugh, you did it again, real smooth Tony,' the billionaire scolded himself. He didn't know what to say so he went with, "I don't think Pepper will be happy when she sees her snacks are gone."

Neo laughed then turned and walked to the door, "I'll be sure to get her some more than, oh and Tony…you're welcome."

Two hours later, Neo felt he had been nice to let Tony work this long. He could tell that Tony was very willing to pull an "all-nighter" and it was up to Neo to make sure he got some sleep. It was ironic that, being younger than most of the people he knew, Neo was the most put together.

"Jarvis, is Tony still awake?"

"Yes, Mr. Stark is still in his workshop. Is there something I can help you with?" the A.I. voiced in his usual polite tone.

"No, on the contrary Jarvis, I'm helping you. At this rate you and Tony will be working all night and he will lose sleep, so I'm going to go down and make sure he goes to bed. Could you make sure everything gets saved and shut down?" Neo said while walking down the stairs and Jarvis gave an affirmative to his request as the glass door to Tony's workshop opened automatically.

Watching the eccentric genius imputing data Neo smiled. Most of what Tony was doing was going over his head, but he could see a partially finished 3D model of the original suit of armor being pieced together by the bits of information. Loud rock music was vibrating through the sound system Tony had installed. Tony seemed to party as hard as he worked, and he was passionate about his inventions. Neo was reminded of Fred and George as he watched the quick hands of the older man glide across the keyboard.

"Jarvis turn the music down, please?" he practically had to yell over the music but it was quickly gone. Neo sighed in relief because his sensitive ears no longer had to take the abuse.

Tony stopped his work and looked around until he noticed Neo standing there with a smug smirk that screamed, 'your A.I. listens to me, so haha'. "I was listening to that, and I don't like it when people mess with my stuff. Jarvis turn the music back on!"

"No, Jarvis. Tony you need to get some sleep. I know you've had a long day because I was around for some of it, so just take a break. Everything will be here in the morning, and when you wake up you'll be ready with even more brilliant ideas and won't be so tired. Come on," Neo said then nodded to the door indicating that he wanted Tony to leave first.

"The offer does sound tempting but I've got it handled."

Neo sighed in annoyance this time, "Fine, I didn't want to have to resort to this, but I don't know what else to do," he walked over to the inventor, and before Tony could stop him Neo had hoisted the man out of his chair then carried him out of the room and up the stairs.

Tony shouted in surprise but was quick to demand the he be put down.

As they passed the living room where Elric had been cleaning, said Butler dropped the polishing rag and stepped behind his Master to follow up the second flight of stairs leading to the bedrooms. "Should I help you, Master?"

Neo thought about it, "Yes, start a shower for Mr. Stark and, if you must, make sure he washes up. I'll make some tea and a light sandwich, hopefully that will make sure he doesn't wake up hungry. Once Tony is out of the shower he needs to get ready for bed, again I am giving you permission to make sure he does so."

"Right away, my Lord," Elric assured as he moved passed them in the hallway to make it to Tony's room first. He left the door open and Neo walked into the bedroom seconds after but he could already hear the water running.

"Look, I appreciate the concern and all, but I'm done playing around," Tony said his breathing had gotten a little faster and Neo realized before the billionaire that Tony was having a mild panic attack.

Neo set Tony on his feet and looked him in the eyes. "Just breathe with me Tony, deep breaths," Neo started to exaggerate the movement of his shoulders and breathed louder so Tony could see and hear his breathes, after a minute it had worked and Tony was back to breathing normally.

Neo made sure that when he spoke his voice was calm and gentle, "I understand what it's like, I may not know the details but I can tell. You grew up learning to do things on your own, and even though there were people around you, many of them never bothered to make sure you were alright. The people around you seem to think that you don't need advice or help, but that's not true is it. You've learned to be independent but you really never learned how to take care of yourself properly. You worked hard and it became normal to work until it was done, no exceptions, even if you didn't sleep, eat or drink for days. And now, everyone around you keeps demanding more from you, they add stress with their demands and harp on you to get the job done while being who they want you to be, but when you're not acting or doing what they expect they abandon you and curse you.

"But there are people who are completely different and will stick by you to help you. Those people may be few but they genuinely care. It's easy to keep those people at arm's length too, and just like others you're afraid to let them in because you worry that they will abandon you in the end. It's hard for you to accept help. I know how that feels, and it took awhile for me to open up too. But I need you to trust me, Tony, I'm not here to hurt you and as long as you'll accept it I will be here to help."

Tony was speechless and a little uneasy. This kid he had just met had nailed most of his bad traits in one go but he hadn't listed them as reasons to hate Tony, just as facts. While glossing over the fact that Tony's family had been less than great, the genius had felt that the younger wasn't just talking about him, and then Tony understood. Like the saying goes, 'it takes one, to know one'.

"Yeah, well I don't need a nanny so you can ease up on the orders. Unless you're really aiming for something else, then I would be happy to let you help me in the shower," Tony said letting his usual flirty manner shine through.

Neo rolled his eyes, "Just get in the bloody shower you incorrigible show pony," the words may have been harsh but his playful tone and smile told Tony that Neo was just teasing.

"Alright, but it's your lose," Tony said to Neo's back as he left.

Neo walked back in a little while later with a sandwiches and tea for three. The thought that Tony's house was riddled with cameras had stopped him from using magic but he had become an expert at quickly preparing food since he was a child, so he didn't take long. Tony was still in the shower. Neo set the tray with the food down before he peeked in. He saw Elric facing toward the door as their eyes met and Neo could have sworn Elric was giving him a pleading look.

The water shut off and Elric stiffened before he said, "Do you require help Mr. Stark? It has only been four minutes." Neo snickered.

"All I needed was four minutes," Tony said from the other side of the frosted glass.

"I would question the truth of that less if I had not seen the state you were in before getting in Mr. Stark, but I suppose I could check if I must," Elric had reached for the shower door handle and was opening it slowly and deliberately.

"Only if you promise to be gentle," Tony joked before he caught the movement of the door and quickly grabbed it and shut it closed, "On second thought, I think I'll just take some time to double check."

The shower turned on again, "I'm sure the only reason we're having this conversation is because you like my bathroom and need an excuse to stay. You know I could have the other ones remodeled if that would make you feel better?"

"Oh yes, it's terribly fascinating, especially with its white walls and the company is so delightful. How could I ever depart such an amazing place?" sarcasm dripped from Elric's words. The white haired man then turned to his young Master, and they had matching sparks of mirth in their eyes.

It was only another six minutes until the water turned off again but it seemed to appease the Guardian Spirit, who didn't say anything this time.

Tony stepped out of the shower and noticed Neo, he gulped, it was new for him to feel self-conscious but he had a giant hole in his chest and scares he really didn't want to think about. The young man didn't stare though, and seemed more concerned with the chain hanging from the leather band around his own right wrist. So the billionaire quickly got dressed.

Neo of course didn't stare because he had already seen it, but his thoughts as he looked down started to actually distract him as Tony got his clothes on. The chain that had wrapped itself around his wrist along with the ancient sword was still a puzzle. Why had they suddenly shrunk and attached themselves to Marvápn? Why did the chain seem to have a psychic connection to him? Neo had been puzzled and awed when it had suddenly responded to his subconscious wish, but he still hadn't figured out how and it was something that had been on his mind more frequently.

A comfortable silence fell as Elric left them to finish what he had started down stairs and whatever else the Spirit occupied his time with. They sat and ate for a while and a casual conversation started. It was almost half an hour before Neo realized he wasn't helping Tony get any sleep by keeping him awake.

"I think I'll do a bit of reading before I go to bed, night," Neo commented as he started to rise from his seat.

"You don't have to leave on my account," Tony joked, "besides you're already sitting down," he pointed out the chair Neo was sitting on that was in front of a matching desk.

It was more than that, Neo understood, so he decided he would indulge this hidden request.

"Thanks, mate," Neo said, and then asked Jarvis to call for Elric so he would bring up the book Neo had left on the kitchen counter. Elric left again, which let Tony and Neo talk for a while but it wasn't long before they were yawning, and it was only a minute later that the god and inventor were asleep.

He had been resting peacefully across Tony's desk until something woke him up, that's when Neo turned to find Tony tossing fitfully. Even if he was still half-asleep, Neo knew better than to shake him awake.

"Tony," Neo said, just above a whisper, "Hey Tony, wake up."

It worked and Tony woke with a start and sat up.

"Deep breathes," he said tiredly. When he heard the man's breathing steady Neo asked, "Nightmares?"

"How…"

"Do you want to know what I did, when I used to have nightmares every night?" he paused for a few seconds, "I embraced it. You have to feel it, understand it, and then you accept it and move on. But don't hide it. You're going to carry your memories and fears with you for the rest of your life. If you try to bury them they just get worse, festering like a wound. Then they come back with a vengeance at the worst times usually as panic attacks or hallucinations. So don't fight them. It's okay to be afraid, fear is natural, but you can't let that fear rule you. Everyone gets nightmares you just can't be afraid of going back to sleep."

Tony just rubbed his face and said, "It sounds like you have a death wish. Not many people would say they embrace fear."

"Oh no, don't get me wrong, I'm afraid of Death and it's a healthy fear, so a little word of advice, don't call Death a liar," Neo smirked at Tony's puzzled look, "But we both know that there are worse things to fear than death, like never-ending pain. There are monsters out there that will cause as much pain as they can to someone, before that person eventually dies one way or another. It happens and you can be afraid of it, like someone can fear drowning, falling, flying in an airplane, getting hit by a car, or just walking out of their house. The fact is people go to the beach or swim in a pool, they go skydiving or jump off a swing, and thousands of cars and planes transport people across the world every day and all of those people have to build up the courage to walk out their front door in the morning. In the end those people face their fears and are better for it. There will always be two kinds of fears, good fear and bad fear. Bad fear can stop you from rational thought, and most of the time it will get you killed. But good fear makes you more cautious and protects you from danger, because it's our self-preservation instinct and makes us both smarter and stronger. Tony, that," he says pointing at the glowing circle in the other mans chest, "proves you are strong. That says you are strong enough to not let death stand in your way, and strong enough to not let your fears make your decisions for you."

Neo sighed and started to leave, "Sure, I could say something like 'it will get better' and 'time heals all wounds', or I could try and tell you how to get over it. But that's up to you, you have to choose what you're going to do...So, what are you going to do Tony?" he said just before he left the room.