Child of the Huntress Master of Heroes

by Weirdo03

An anomaly. An unexpected entity. That's what he was. He didn't like what was happening in the world. So he sets out to change it. His birth mother didn't want him but that's fine. The one that raised him. That's who he consideres his mother. And with the heroes of every age at his side as his allies, he has nothing to fear. I only own my OC's.

5. Chapter 4

I do not own Percy Jackson or Fate/Grand Order

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Percy Jackson was not having a good time. It was in fact the exact opposite. This entire week had been like something from a nightmare or some sick joke. First Mrs. Dodds turned into some weird bat thing, a fury if he remembers correctly. Then he had an odd dream about an eagle and horse fighting to the death, with a dark voice urging them on to kill each other. Then he lost his mother. One of the only people who cared about him. He could still remember that dreadful feeling when she disappeared, the sudden emptiness that appeared in the pit of his stomach. The incredible, seething anger. And as if that wasn't enough, it turned out that Greek gods are real, they have children who get sent to some summer camp, and he is apparently one of them. The son of Poseidon to be precise. One would think that being the son of a god would be a reason to celebrate and be happy. And mayhap it would have been something for Percy to celebrate had it not been for the fact that he was being accused of a crime he had no way of committing. More precisely, stealing Zeus' symbol of power, the Master bolt. The very thing he was on the quest on in order to find and bring back to Olympus before an all-out civil war breaks out. Only to be attacked by Mrs. Dodds and her sisters again and later have all of their supplies and transport destroyed by a bolt of lightning. So his frustration was well justified in his opinion.

A sudden tap on his shoulder caused the young demigod to be snapped out of his thoughts and look to his right. Where one of his quest-mates stood. She was, in his opinion, a spitting image of a typical Californian girl, the image only ruined by her stormy grey eyes. With tan skin and blond curly hair like a princess. With a slender athletic build. Annabeth Chase, one of his quest companions that he met at camp half-blood.

The daughter of Athena donned an irritated look, evidently trying to get Percy's attention for some time now.

"What?" Asked Percy, not really in the mood right now to listen to more of the girl's whining about him 'not behaving like a proper demigod should'. He never asked for this life.

Annabeth could only groan in annoyance. "I asked are you ok? You haven't spoken a word since the bus incident." Said the blond Demigod.

Percy winced slightly as Grover tried to play his reed pipes once again. Not stopping, he turned back to Annabeth. "I'm fine. I was just thinking." Said the son of Poseidon, though not very convincingly.

Annabeth scoffed but didn't say anything else.

They have been walking for a few hours since the bus incident and were in pretty low spirits. The sun was also beginning to set, reducing visibility and causing Percy to bump into a few trees and trip over a few roots. But after some time, they saw something ahead of them.

An old Neon sign that was barely functioning. And behind it a few buildings, with only one looking to be inhabited and in decent condition. An old billboard advertising some 90's movie stood overhead, though barely. But the demigods and satyr were more focused on something else.

"Do you smell that?" Asked Percy, his eyes slightly glazing over, as if in a trance.

Annabeth took a second to smell the aroma and made a conclusion that made both her and Percy smile unconsciously. "Smells like Burgers." Said the daughter of Athena with excitement.

Both quickly made their way towards the building, with Grover following behind, not too certain that it was a good idea. As they got closer, they noticed a few garden gnomes placed in a few spots. The closer they got to the building; the more gnomes seemed to appear, statues as well. And they slowly went from waving and smiling, to horrified and panicked, with postures that conveyed confusion. There was one statue of a little girl trying to cover her face. That one greatly unnerved the group.

Grover walked up to one of the statues, one which resembled an elders Satyr playing some reed pipes. "Come on guys! Don't tell me this place doesn't creep you out. This statue looks like my uncle Ferdinand!" Exclaimed the young satyr, turning to his friends.

The pair of demigods didn't respond, instead moved closer to the door. Just as Annabeth was about to knock Grover stopped her.

"Don't knock! I smell a monster. A very powerful one!" Exclaimed the satyr in a hushed whisper. His eyes pleading and panicked.

"Your nose is still clogged up from the Furies Grover. All I smell are burgers. Aren't you hungry?" Asked Annabeth, her hunger overpowering her normally rational thinking.

"Meat!" Exclaimed the satyr scornfully, "I'm a vegetarian."

Percy gave his friend an odd look. "You eat cheese enchiladas and aluminium cans." He said with a straight, somewhat deadpan tone.

"Those are vegetables!" Said Grover, a sudden chill going up his spine. "Come on guys. Let's leave! The statues… they're looking at me. And I know I smelled a monster in there!"

Just as Annabeth was about to retort, the door opened. There stood a tall woman whose appearance seemed to be European. She looked to be young, no older than around twenty-five, with long lavender hair that almost reached the ground. She had lilac eyes that were behind a set of oval glasses. She wore a black sweater and some black jeans. She had slightly tanned skin, barely noticeable in fact and wore a small smile. Her beauty was breath-taking, with Percy and Grover feeling their faces heat up slightly, even Annabeth paused for a moment to admire the woman's beauty.

When she noticed them, a look of surprise flashed across her face, as if she was expecting someone else, but she quickly hid it, not that any of the demigods or satyr noticed it.

"Children? What are you doing out here at such a late hour? Are your parents nearby?" She asked kindly, her smile putting them at ease.

The children all suddenly froze up. In their hunger failing to forge any sort of backstory.

"They're, um…" Stuttered the child of Athena,

"We're orphans" Quickly said Percy, hoping it was enough for the woman.

The lilac-eyed woman frowned, only slightly though. "Orphans? Surely not." She stated, looking over the three.

"Yes! We, um… We got separated from our Circus Caravan." Said Percy, causing his two companions to look at him oddly. "Our ringmaster told us to meet him at the gas station if we got lost, but he may have forgotten or he meant a different gas station."

The woman had a small, amused look in her eyes, but none of the children noticed. "Is that so?" She asked, keeping her face straight. "Would you like to come in? The weather has been rather erratic lately, and you three look famished." Asked the woman, a gentle smile returning to her pretty face.

Before Grover could protest both Percy and Annabeth walked in, the daughter of Athena whispering to the son of Poseidon; "A circus caravan?"

Grover dropped his head slightly, a chill traveling down his spine when he heard the door to the warehouse close behind him.

"At the back of the warehouse there is a dining area. Go straight there please." Said the lavender haired woman. Though her voice was soft, Percy, Annabeth and Grover could hear her clearly.

As they went further into the warehouse, the statues became more human like, people in different poses, wearing different clothing, with different expressions on their faces. All life-sized, as if they were once human and someone turned them into stone. Grover whimpered slightly, but it didn't seem to have an effect on either of his friends.

When they got to the dining area, the three quest members were surprised at the state of it. It was much cleaner than what they expected, not a speck of dust, damage or stain to be found anywhere, as if the place never closed and was being maintained to a high standard. Though, Percy's hunger affected brain could only focus on the food related things. Such as the fast-food counter with a grill, a soda fountain, a pretzel heater, and a nacho cheese dispenser. All you could want from a fast-food place. And the machinery looked to be in brilliant condition, as if recently bought, or restored by a professional, though he didn't focus on that for long, both his ADHD and hunger clouding his mind.

There were also a few steel picknick tables. With the lavender haired woman gesturing to one of them. "Please sit, I'll go prepare you something to eat." Said the woman, still kindly smiling. Somewhat reminding Percy of his mother, Sally.

She and the woman seemed to have the same aura around them at this moment, something that caused Percy to almost tear up at the reminder of his mother but quickly squashed it down and instead replied with a happy and excited; "Awesome!"

"Um." Grover said reluctantly, just as Annabeth and Percy were about to sit down. "We don't have any money ma'am."

Just as Percy was about to jab Grover in the ribs the woman only smiled brighter.

"No, there's no need for money. It's my treat. What sort of monster would I be to let children starve when I could help them instead? I was getting the fryers and grills prepared anyway. There's no need to worry about anything." Said the woman kindly her eyes radiating a certain warmth.

"Thank you, ma'am." Said Annabeth politely.

The woman's eyes flashed over to the daughter of Athena, pausing for a moment but quickly regaining her previous demeanour. However, none of the children noticed it.

"It's quite alright, Annabeth." Said the woman. None of the children noticing that they somehow knew the girls name despite not introducing themselves. "You have such beautiful grey eyes." Simply stated the woman.

At first, Annabeth wanted to compliment the woman's own pretty lilac eyes, but something unnerved her about how the woman paid attention to that detail.

The hostess quickly disappeared behind the snack counter and start of cooking. The three quest members heard the hissing of the fryers and the slight clattering of utensils, before they even knew it, the woman returned with three trays worth of food. Heaped with double cheeseburgers, vanilla milkshakes and XXL servings of fries, with a few dips including BBQ, tomato ketchup and garlic mayonnaise. Annabeth and Percy wasted no time with grabbing the closest thing to them while Grover was a lot more reserved and hesitant to even touch the food provided.

Percy was already through his first burger before he remembered that he needed to breathe. Annabeth slurped her milkshake a bit noisily, temporarily forgetting her manners. Grover picked at the fries with uncertainty, glancing at the tray's waxed paper liner, as if contemplating whether to eat that instead. He was simply too nervous to eat anything.

"What's that hissing noise?" Suddenly asked the satyr, drawing everyone's attention to him. Percy listened but didn't hear anything. Annabeth also shook her head.

"Hissing? You're probably hearing the deep-fat fryers. I've put in more fries in case you wanted some more to eat. You have very good hearing Grover." Said the woman, turning her attention to the unsettled satyr.

"I take vitamins. For my ears." Quickly replied Grover, starting to nervously munch on another fry.

"That's very admirable. But try not to overdo it. Otherwise, your ears will become too sensitive and might cause you problems in the future." Said the woman, somewhat teasingly. "But please, relax."

It was only then that Percy realized that the woman ate nothing. She simply sat there looking over them, glancing in the direction of the door they came through, as if expecting someone else to come knocking.

She looked back to us and Grover, who still was reluctant to eat. "Grover, you have barely eaten anything. Would you like me to bring you something else? I could bring you some salad or perhaps something healthier if you want?" Asked the woman innocently, her friendly smile never leaving.

"N-no." Stuttered the satyr. "No need. I like it!" he said, a bit panicked, and started to eat the fries with more enthusiasm. The woman seemed to be briefly amused by his reaction but quickly returned her face to gentle neutrality.

His mind-numbing hunger being satisfied, Percy decided to try and engage in some small talk with their hostess.
"So you sell gnomes." Said the son of Poseidon, trying to sound interested.

The woman briefly looked around the place, through there were fewer of the statues in the dining area, there still we're a few noticeable ones.
"I used to." Said the woman calmly. "Gnomes, animals, people. Anything that one would put in their garden. Sometimes, 'custom' orders. Statuary was very popular with many individuals." Calmy stated the woman, though unnoticed by the children, her gaze and voice seemed, regretful.

"Used to? Didn't you get a lot of business on the road?" Asked Percy.

The woman shook her head. "No, well. It is a part of the truth. Ever since the highway was built, many people stopped using these roads. I also started to get bad memories whenever I looked at some of the statues I have…made."

Idly, Percy looked around the room. And noticed a peculiar statue that sent a small shiver down his spine. A statue of a little girl holding an easter basket. The detail was incredible, leagues above anything would see in other garden statues. But what made Percy shiver was the statues face. It was twisted into a terrified expression of alarm and fear.

"Ah" Said the woman sadly, "You noticed, though I guess it's a bit difficult not to. They always seemed to come out like that. It was quiet, discomforting, even to me."

"Did you make the statues yourself?" Asked Percy, grabbing a few more fries.

The woman seemed to perk up at that slightly. "Yes, for some time I did. But I had my sisters to help me earlier on. But they decided that they wanted to do something else instead and left. They bullied me a lot and often teased me about anything I did. But I love them, nonetheless. I continued to make statues because of my loneliness. But I stopped. They started to become very difficult for me to keep making." The woman ended with a sombre tone.

Percy couldn't help but feel sorry for the woman. He doubted that he would be able to withstand anything like that. Wanting to change the subject the dark-haired boy asked her:
"What do you do now then?"

The woman perked up slightly, her eyes sparkling with a bit of excitement. "Oh. I started to work for a private security and protection company. We act as bodyguards mainly, but we have a few other roles that are available to us. Both of my sisters also work there but they have a much more…reserved in their role. I am expecting for my client to be here soon. So imagine my surprise when instead of them I find three children instead." Finished the woman, chuckling slightly teasingly to herself at the end.

Percy was happy that the kind woman at least found herself a new job that she looked to enjoy, judging by the happy expression on her face and how her eyes lit up when talking about the job.

Annabeth suddenly stopped eating and leaned forward slightly; eyes wide.
"Two sisters?" She asked, an underlayer of fear in her voice that didn't go unnoticed by the woman, who gained a teasing gleam in her eyes.

"Yes." She replied, a light smirk on her lips. "Though it's quite a tragic story, not one for children. You see Annabeth, there was once a Woman who held a lot of pride for herself and considered herself as a righteous one. I used to work for her you could say. I was young. Naïve. And I fell in 'love' with someone. My…boyfriend, wasn't very liked by the woman. And she was very determined to break us apart. And punished me and my sisters, who also worked for her. My sisters stayed with me and supported me in their own ways. The woman started to send people to attack us. And we eventually got tired of it. We we're constantly tormented, but eventually we fought back. Showed that we would not simply allow ourselves to be tormented. And eventually, me and my sister have managed to live a somewhat peaceful life. They did still bully me quite often though." Finished the woman, gaining a somewhat nostalgic look.

Annabeth's eyes were wide with fear. Grover started to impatiently twitch every so often. And Percy could only feel even more sorry for the woman. Who would want to hurt such a kind person?

Three sudden consecutive beeps broke the silence that settled over the group. The woman perked up at the noise, her entire demeanour changing in an instant.
"Ah, seems like the next portion is ready." Said the lavender haired woman, her voice, eyes and smile all gentle, just like she first appeared. "Would you like another portion of fries?"

"No!" Quickly said Annabeth, standing up. She looked over to Percy, who was looking at her as if he said something extremely upsetting. "We should get going. I mean, the ringmaster will be wating for us." She said, her body tensing up slightly.

Percy looked at her with eyes full of disbelief. He looked over to Grover, only to find the Satyr to nervously munching on the waxed paper off the tray and started to fidget. If the woman found this odd, she didn't show it. Instead, she simply looked at Annabeth for a second, then looked over me and Grover, who suddenly jumped out of his seat, his ears going red and a slight stutter appearing in his speech as he managed to bleat out:
"Yes! The ringmaster is wating. We must hurry!"

Percy looked at his companions irritated. The woman offered them food, a temporary break from the madness he was thrust into and was nothing but kind to them.

Just as he was about to protest the woman stood up, her smile not wavering in the slightest.
"Very well. But please, stay just a bit longer. I will only be a moment." Said the woman, swiftly disappearing behind the counter.

Annabeth grabbed both him and Grover by their wrists and started to drag them towards the direction of the door they came through.
"Quick! We must get out before she returns!" Panicky whispered Annabeth, fear evident in her grey eyes.

Grover didn't need to be told twice and also started to move as quick and quiet as possible to the door, but Percy wasn't so cooperative.

With a glare, he yanked his wrist free from Annabeth's hold and glared at the two. Causing the daughter of Athena and the Satyr to skid to a halt on the tiled floor.
"Percy! What are you doing? We must leave now!" Hissed Annabeth, glancing back to the counter, where slight shuffling could be heard.

Percy almost glared harder but instead opted to simply say what was on his mind.
"Why do you have to be so rude? The woman fed us for free and this is how you thank her? What is wrong with you two!" Asked Percy in a hushed tone. Observing both of his companions as Annabeth stared like he had made her eat a really sour lemon, while Grover skittishly kept glancing between the door and the bar.

"Percy!" Hissed Annabeth, her stormy grey eyes glaring harshly at the black-haired son of Poseidon. "If we stay, we will all die! The quest will end, and a civil war will break out. We might even end up in someone's garden!" Said Annabeth, losing her patience to the son of Poseidon.

Percy could only look at her like she grew a second head. "What are you talking about?"

Annabeth quickly lost her patience. "Percy! She's Me-"

Whatever the daughter of Athena was about to say died in her throat. A sudden presence was felt by the three children. A shiver went down Grover's and Annabeth's backs. Percy however, simply felt as if someone he didn't know was there previously revealed themselves.

"Is there a problem?" Came the calm Voice of the lavender haired woman, who was only an armlength away from them.

She stood innocently and gained a look signifying slight teasing enjoyment when witnessing Annabeth's startled face. The blond demigod reaching for her knife.

The woman held two rucksacks in her arms, both of which seemed to be filled to their limits, with what, the demigods and satyr weren't sure. Noticing their curious gaze, mainly Percy's, the woman began to explain.
"I have packed you some food and drinks here. I also managed to get you some money as well as a map. A 'thank you' token for spending a bit of time with me." Said the woman, smiling down at the three children.

Annabeth was still guarded, her eyes darting around, trying to find every viable escape route possible. Grover nervously took one of the backpacks. Percy blushed slightly and took the second bag and looked up to the woman with eyes full of gratitude and a smile.

"Thank you!" He exclaimed. "But are you sure? You've already done so much for us!"

The woman only smiled and shook her head. "I'm sure. I'm sure they will be of more use to you than they are to me. And Percy…" The mentioned boy perked up. "Please be more wary of strangers. Someday, someone could take advantage of you because you didn't see the danger lurking underneath the water." Said the woman in a lecturing tone, her eyes hardening at the son of Poseidon, who could only look at her in confusion.

A few quick knocks on the door behind them broke the pregnant silence that fell upon the group. The woman perked up, her smile returning to her pretty face.
"Ah, I think that might be my client." She turned back to the children. "Again, thank you for keeping me company. It was most enjoyable."

The Woman swiftly moved to the door, not making a single sound. Something that only Annabeth and Grover managed to notice. She quickly unlocked the door and opened it.
"Oh? So, you're the one babysitting him this time?" Asked the woman, amusement clear in her voice.

"Well, someone has to. Everyone else is busy so I'm forced to keep the little brat out of trouble." Responded a feminine voice with a rather masculine tone. Though Annabeth could detect a slight teasing tone hidden within.

The quest mates then heard another voice, young, probably similar age to them and most likely that of a boy. And they didn't even need to see his face to know that he was pouting. "I can hear you. I don't like being called a brat you know. It's rude." Said the voice in a soft-spoken manner, as if not really offended.

The woman outside gave a snort of amusement. "Until you've outgrown me, I'll continue to call you a brat."

Only Grover managed to hear the soft groan-like noise that the younger stranger made. But all three campers could hear the clearly amused laugh from the lavender haired woman.
"How about you come in? I have some food ready and I'm sure you'd rather discuss the terms of the transfer inside." Said the woman, stepping aside for the strangers outside to come in.

All three quest mates had slightly flushed faces, though for different reasons.

The first person to come in was a young-looking woman of average height. With short ink black hair, pale skin and black eyes that could only be described as a 'clear void'. Her choice of clothing was rather odd to the quest mates. She wore a red leather jacket over a yukata-like, single piece kimono, and black laced-up boots. By her appearance, Annabeth deducted that the woman was of Asian origin. And most likely Japanese, judging by the clothes she wore and slight accent. She was, to simply put it, beautiful.

The other person was quite different in appearance. It was a young boy, who could not be older than twelve. With quite a 'girly' appearance. He had long, flowing black hair that reached his mid-back, with the tips being a fire-like auburn, though it didn't seem to be dyed. His skin was light, only slightly darker that the skin of the woman he arrived with. His eyes were most probably the most striking feature. With his left being silver in colour and his right being a striking yellow. Both rather unusual eye colours, noted the group. He was dressed quite casually. Wearing a grey hoodie with a depiction of three ravens sitting circling around each other, jeans-like trousers and a pair of black Nike's.

His lips were spread into a small smile that seemed to put anyone at ease. His eyes were gentle. Almost like his mothers' Percy noted. And while the black-haired woman had a feel of being slightly unapproachable and distant, they boy almost radiated an aura of innocence and friendliness.

Grover was staring at the boy, perplexed. As if he saw something that completely baffled him beyond words.

Percy also noticed that when Annabeth looked at the boy, her face reddened slightly. Not as much as she did with Luke, but to see the normally stoic and calculation face of the child of Athena be replaced by a slight flush of the cheeks was still surprising.

The black-haired woman looked at the three, then turned to the lavender haired woman with an odd look. "When did you find the time to get yourself a kid, never mind three?" Asked the Asian woman in a flat tone, like she didn't actually care.

"Oh? No, they're not mine. They are children I let stay and rest here. And they were just leaving." Calmly stated the woman. She then turned back to the children, her warm smile never faltering. "Once again, thank you for keeping me company. I hope you find what you seek." Said the woman gently, shuffling out of their way of the door to let them pass.

Annabeth and Grover quickly snapped out of their trance and started heading for the door.
Percy started to follow behind them. As he passed the young boy, he gave him a sideways glance. The boy apparently noticed and gave a small wave.

Percy waved back and just as he was about to pass through the door, he turned to face the woman who hosted him and his friends.
"Thank you miss. The food was great. Hope your new job goes well!" Said Percy with a smile, closing the door behind him.

After a few seconds of silence, the lavender haired woman spoke up.
"What nice children."

She turned to her new guests and smiled down at the younger of the pair. "So? What is it you need of me, Mihaly?"

The child of Echidna reached into his left trouser pocket. He Pulled out a small notebook and presented it to Medusa. "In here are the names and address of people for you to pick up and bring back to camp. The huntress and her followers have ended their hunt for you by the order of the king. You may have more breathing room but that doesn't mean you should be careless." He said giving the book to her.

Medusa opened it and quickly flipped through the pages, where rows of consisting of names, age address', and the names of gods. Medusa closed the book and placed it into a small pocket in her sweater.
"Thank you. Though, I must admit that it is a bit odd for her to call off a hunt. And for the eagle to be the cause is even more odd. But tell me, is this really all you came for?" Asked the servant, a teasing smile spread across her face.

Mihaly made a humming noise and shook his head, his smile becoming a fraction wider.
"Yep! Sorry to disappoint you Medusa, but that's all I came here for. There's a few more things I need to do today. Mother wants to meet up with me tomorrow so we can spend a bit of time together. It has been two years since we saw each other last after all."

The youngest gorgon sister's smile faded slightly, her eyes turning downcast. "I see."

Noticing her friends' plight, Shiki decided to change the topic. "By the way, have you managed to find anything? Hades is starting to get impatient, and Hundred personas has reported that the furies have failed again."

Medusa perked up slightly, though her eyes hardened, and her smile was replaced by a frown. "The child of Poseidon does not have the master bolt nor the helm, nor does he have a scent on him to associate himself with said items, those items are much too powerful for them not to leave a scent, if that is what you're asking."

Shiki didn't say anything, her neutral expression not shifting even slightly. She shifted her eyes to their Master, who decided to pull out a chair and sit down, his hands folded politely in his legs.

Mihaly made a quiet humming noise, his eyes slightly lowered to the ground. "Well, it's not like we didn't already know this, but it's better to be safe. However, given the nature of his quest, it would still be beneficial to monitor him. Hassan."

A figure shrouded in a dark cloak that covered its entire body appeared in front of the boy, as if coming out of one of the few dark corners of the room. A white skeletal mask was the only thing that was not covered in darkness.

"You summoned me, lord mage?" Asked the figure, it's voice eerie yet friendly. To the boy at least.

"Could you please tail them? Only for the duration of the quest of course, and could you please record everything that happens? And once finished, present the report to me?" Asked the child of Echidna, smiling at one of the old men of the mountain.

The assassin gave a hearty laugh. "It seems you have not changed at all my lord. Such a task is a trivial matter. It shall be done."

With a small bow of the head, Hassan of the Cursed arm disappeared back into the shadows.

Shiki huffed. "Guess that's now done with. Oi Master, do you mind if we stay for a few minutes, I could do with something to eat."

"Of course," said the boy without hesitation. "I'm feeling a bit starved myself. I'm sorry to bother you Medusa, but would you mind if we used your kitchen?"

"Yes, I do mind." Said the purple haired gorgon, a frown marring her pretty face. "I've already prepared both food and drink for you, and I'll not have it wasted. So sit there while I bring it. You too Shiki-san."

She glared harshly at both, before turning away and heading to her kitchen. Confusing Mihaly, who simply looked in the direction of where Medusa had gone to.

He turned his gaze to the assassin class servant sitting opposite him.
"Did I say something out of place?" Slowly asked Mihaly, his eyes becoming slightly downcast.

The ends of Shiki's lips twitched upwards just slightly. Her cold impassive eyes softening with unspoken affection as she looked at the boy. The expression quickly disappeared, however. Almost as fast as it came.

She shrugged, her gaze turning away from him.
"Don't worry too much about it."

The boy's mood brightened slightly, a smile once again blooming across his lips. He brought his chair a bit closer to the table. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a pen, as well as a blank piece of paper as well as an envelope.

The feint scribbling of the pen was the only thing sound that could be heard on the large dining area. Shiki glanced at her master from time to time, before staring off once again and idly noticing that the sun is beginning to set behind the horizon.

The soft clicking of shoes against a tiled floor caused both to pause momentarily and look towards the direction of the noise. Medusa set down three trays of food, one for each person.

Mihaly's own trey had a medium portion of chips as a side and a burger as a main course. The burger having two battered chicken fillets instead of beef burgers. With a healthy portion of lettuce, tomato and red onion. On the side was a large glass of water with a lemon and lime floating in it.

Mihaly thanked Medusa for the food and started eating, occasionally wiping his hands clean and writing down a few words.

"Is there something wrong, Shiki-san?" Asked Medusa, feigning innocence. Causing Mihaly to pause eating and turn to his companions.

He stifled a laugh when he saw it. The usually stoic woman had a small frown on her face as well as her eyes glaring lightly at Medusa. The cause of her seemingly upset mood was a small pink tub that remained untouched on her trey, a small spoon beside it.

"I don't like Ice cream." She said plainly. An almost unnoticeable pout formed on her face. Her glare never wavering.

"That's a lie." Replied Medusa, an amused glint entering her eyes as well as a smirk spreading across her lips.

The Japanese woman's glare hardened. The simply sat in a tense silence for what seemed to be a few minutes. Before Shiki huffed in agitation and turned her gaze away. Opening the small pot of strawberry Ice cream.

Medusa smirked victoriously while Mihaly laughed softly into his hand. He placed the now written letter into the envelope and it disappeared a few seconds later, leaving behind the smell of freshly bloomed flowers.

Both women glanced in his direction. Medusa arching an eyebrow in question.

"A letter to lady Persephone. She told me to keep her and Hades updated on my progress regarding both the helm and master bolt. I simply told her thar young Percy doesn't have either and has not been in contact with either. Though that is not to say it's not worth keeping an eye on them." Explained the child of Echidna. Before standing up and pushing the chair back under the table.

The other two followed suite. Shiki finishing off the last of her Ice Cream and adjusted her leather jacket. She made sure her knife is still present and nodded to herself, satisfied.

"Thank you for your hospitality Medusa. The food was great, as always." Said Mihaly, smiling at the rider class servant.

She smiled right back at him. Inclining her head slightly.
"Of course. You're welcome any time, Master." She teased at the end. Winking at him playfully.

Mihaly only shook his head. Already used to the teasing of most of his friends. Medusas included.

He was about to head towards the entrance before suddenly stopping.
"Ah yes! I knew I was forgetting something!" He suddenly exclaimed, spinning on his heel to face Medusa.

Said woman looked at him with interest, tilting her head slightly to the side.

Mihaly reached down into one of his pockets and pulled out a book. Said object was much too big to be able to fit inside the boy's trouser pockets and yet that is undoubtedly where the boy pulled out the object from.

It was red, depicting a woman in a Victorian dress facing away from the reader. In bold fancy letters the title read, The Art of Dying.

"I heard that you enjoyed the first entry, The Way of All Flesh, so I thought I'd get this for you. I hope you enjoy it." Said Mihaly, presenting the book to Medusa.

She took it with a smile on her face, a faint red rising to her cheeks.
"Thank you. I've been trying to find a copy for a while now. Honestly. It was quite frustrating." She places the book on a nearby table and walked up to Mihaly.

She kneeled down and embraced him in a tight hug, a content smile upon her lips.
"Thank you, Mihaly. We are truly blessed to have you as a master. Isn't that right, Shiki?"

Her eyes flick over to the assassin class servant standing a few feet away from them. A small smirk on her lips.
"Yeah, I guess we are." She says evenly, shrugging her shoulders.

Medusa let Mihaly go after a few more seconds. The boy giggling innocently. His smile as bright as ever.

"It's no problem Medusa. I. I just want to show that I appreciate what you do for me, and that I care. For all of you." He said, his cheeks reddening slightly with embarrassment, as he looked at both Medusa and Shiki.

Shiki's smirk grew and so did her urge to tease.
"You might want to stop now. Else you'll be a real heartbreaker when you're older."

Mihaly tilts his head in confusion. His eyes glazing over for a second before returning to normal.
"What do you mean Shiki?" He asks.

The woman only huffs in response.
"Ah, forget it." She dismissed. Though a small smile bloomed on her face.

Mihaly made a quiet humming noise. But decided to leave the matter for now.
"Anyway. We should get going. Penthesilea doesn't like to be kept waiting and I really do not wish to 'spar' with her any time soon." Said the black-haired boy. Shuddering slightly at the memories of the Amazon Queen's harsh training.

After saying their goodbyes, both groups went their separate ways, Medusa disappearing into motes of blue light.

As both Shiki and Mihaly travelled down the old unused road, a comfortable silence settled over them.

---

Meanwhile, somewhere Paris

Aphrodite yawned lightly finding herself bored out of her mind. Her earlier date with Ares was cut short because on one of her husbands' contraptions. Not that she minded in all honesty. Ares had stopped entertaining her for a long time now. But because of that, she found herself incredibly bored. She idly wondered whether to search for a mortal to sire another child with.

Ah. Her children. What she wouldn't give to spend some time with them. Even a little. She silently cursed Zeus and that specific ancient law. Her mood soured even more when she saw an Amazon delivery van drive past the window of Café de Flore.

A frown marred her face. She loathed the Amazons. No. That wasn't quite right. She was disappointed. Yes. Much better. Much more accurate. The disappointment she felt stemmed from the background slavery of young children, specifically young boys.

The tea that she sipped suddenly tasted incredibly bitter. She set the cup down and tapped her finger against the table impatiently. How many times has she discreetly suggested for something to be done about it? How any times has she brought the topic up, only for it to be dismissed? For 'more important topics' such as who was Rhea's favourite or an argument between Athena and Poseidon or Hera yelling at Zeus for siring another child out of wedlock. The last one was quite entertaining at first, but it quickly became old.

She even tried to get Artemis to do something about it. At first it was difficult to even speak to the Silver eyed goddess. But even when she managed to bring the matter up with her, she was dismissed with an insult or threat. What truly angered the goddess of love, was that Artemis was supposed to be a guardian of children, no matter the gender. And Aphrodite had a slight nagging suspicion, that it was because it was boys that we're being sold as slaves and having their wills taken away. If it were girls, Artemis would no doubt through a tantrum of some sort and immediately try to free them. Being a little daddy's girl, she'd probably get Zeus to not only free the girls but probably enlist them as her hunter and get Zeus to punish whoever did it or do it herself.

Aphrodite sighed and pushed her tea to the side. No longer in the mood for it. She was starting to lose hope. While she might have built herself an image of being a loose woman, someone that would drift from man to man, to whoever would strike her fancy. Notorious for creating tragic love. For being petty. For being manipulative. For not understanding the principles of 'love' other than the one that leads to a rough night in bed. But that was false. She knew of all love and spread all love. Romantic, familial it didn't matter. Both mortals and gods prefer to remember the darker side of the moon. Not caring if it's the truth or not, as long as it abided by how they view things.

She supposed she can't exactly blame others for thinking so. If she started to act naturally, no doubt it would cause the whole of Olympus to be flipped upside down. A small, amused smirk formed on her face. Only briefly though.

She loved children. And not just her own. Luckly, none of her children had been taken. If they had, nothing would have protected the Amazons from her wrath. There was once a hunter of Artemis that shared her view with the goddess, that children should be protected. Though, the huntress might have become a bit too obsessive with the ideal, but she meant well. A shame what became of her really.

She flipped her wrist and looked at the hands of the elegant watch on it. She admitted she was quite early. But she had nothing better to do. So, she waited patiently. Something she wasn't exactly known for by her fellow gods.

She scowled once again when the exact same Amazon van once again drove past the window, as if mocking her. Her mind unwillingly went back to her depressing dilemma. Oh! If only Hippolyta or Penthesilea were still in charge. They'd never allowed for something like this to happen under their watch as queens of the Amazons.

Just when she thought that all hope was lost, when even sweet Hestia said that she couldn't do anything, her fire was rekindled by a most unlikely source.

"Hey! Sorry I'm late. Needed to finish off a few things that took longer than expected. But nothing that I couldn't easily do." A voice sounded to her right. Smooth as silk and sweet like honey.

Ah, speak of the devil and he shall appear. Well, more like she-devil. Aphrodite mused.

Aphrodite turned her head, her eyes landing on a beauty that she'd admit freely, rivalled her own. Long blackish hair that cascaded down her back, reminded Aphrodite of a night sky filled with stars. Eyes red, like the shiniest of rubies that sparkled with slight mischief and an air of superiority. Tanned skin that still somehow seemed to glisten under the sunlight. Delicate features of a woman in the prime of her youth, a body that would befit a goddess. A gold necklace with an embedded crimson jewel in the centre that complimented her eyes. Two bracelets, one on each hand housed a dark sapphire jewel in their centre. If Aphrodite didn't know better, she'd assume that the woman before her was one of her descendants that possessed all of her good features. But she knew better.

Aphrodite smiled earnestly, glad that the one person, except Hestia of course, that she didn't need to hold her façade up for was here.

"It's no problem at all dear. Come and sit! I'll call over a waiter to get you something to drink." Said Aphrodite. Leaning back into her chair.

The woman nodded and sat down elegantly, propping her right arm on an armrest and resting her head in her palm. The woman sighed in relief, as if forced to do a mountain load of physical labour a just a few minutes ago.

"Honestly. That boy really knows how to work someone to the bone. But that's a topic for later. So, how are you doing?" Casually asked the woman. Looking straight at the Greek goddess of Love.

Aphrodite felt tension leave her body. She sighed through her nose and presented a weak smile.
"I'm afraid that I'm no better since we last met. I haven't managed to even bring it up in any of the more recent council meetings. Never mind make any progress to stop it. I'm really starting to lose hope. So, please. Please tell me that you can do something about it." There was desperation in her voice. No longer caring for her image at this point.

The woman's eyes softened. She reached across the table and gently took Aphrodite's hands into her own.

"Calm down. You're making a scene." Gently chided the woman, her smile comforting.

She took her hands back after a moment. Placing her left hand slightly in front of her mouth in a haughty way. The smirk that spread across her face was terrifying. Almost devil like. "After all, we finished the preparations. All we have to wait for now is the all clear from the master."

Aphrodite stilled. Her expression rigid. She almost collapsed back into her chair, unaware that she stood up. A joyous laugh escaped her throat, a tear fell down her cheek. It ruined the makeup she put on, but she couldn't care less.

Finally, some hope.

"And how long is that going to take?" Asked the goddess. Her voice steady.

The woman turned and looked at the clock that hung from one of the walls. Her smirk receded into a smug smile.
"Well, if my calculations are right. Three, maybe four hours."

Aphrodite smiled. A sigh of relief escaped her lips as she took the now cold cup of tea and sipped it slightly.

"Of course. We were going to do this even if you didn't want to. However, seeing as you are, can we hope for your 'patronage' from now on?" Asked the woman, her smile became even more smug.

The love goddess could only smirk to herself.
"My, aren't you a manipulative she-devil? And after all we've been through together?" Cooed Aphrodite, almost like a dove. "Of course. You have my full support. Besides, your services have proved to be much…safer."

A soft silence fell as the two women took the small moment to take a breath. A waiter came up to their table. With the red-eyed woman ordering a fruit-based tea, and Aphrodite ordering a fresh green tea for herself.

"Before we conclude this meeting." Suddenly spoke the woman, shifting one leg over the other. "I'd like to ask you for a favour. As a friend, not a member of my group."

Aphrodite perked up slightly.

Noticing that she has her companion's attention, the red-eyed woman continued, a somewhat solemn expression on her face.
"I'd like for you to help someone fall in love."

Aphrodite stilled. Her eyes slightly wide. She composed herself. An intrigued glint made its way into her eyes, and her smile grew terrifying.

"Oh? Is that so? I must say, you've caught my interest. So, tell me. Who is it that I'm supposed to charm? I'm very curious right now. Of course. I'll do it no matter who it is. If it's for you, my dear friend. Ishtar."

The red-eyed woman's smirk grey to match that of the Greek goddess of love.

---

Percy shivered slightly as he got into the elevator that was supposed to take them up on top of the Arch. On Annabeth's insistence to see the giant monument. Which ended up with him, Annabeth and Grover, to enter the elevator that was a bit cramped and caused him to be a bit claustrophobic.

Accompanying them in the elevator was a young woman, with brown wavy hair done up in a ponytail and eyes that were the colour of gold. She was fair skinned and held a chihuahua in her arms. She was also quite tall, pretty much towering over him, Grover and Annabeth. Her face was a mixture of both annoyance and happiness. As if looking forward to something but not liking where she currently is. Percy guessed she didn't like cramped spaces like him. She wore a simple white shirt and stylish denim jeans.

Though, he was certain that pets were not allowed onto the Arch. Maybe it was a seeing-eye dog. Though, the lady didn't seem to be blind. Percy felt his ADHD kick in and he forgot about the matter entirely.

As the elevator started to ascend, Percy started feeling slightly ill, never being on an elevator that travelled in a curve.

"No parents?" Suddenly asked the woman next to them. Her voice admittedly soft but it didn't match her expression, which remained unchanged.

"They're down below." Quickly said Annabeth with confidence. "Scared of heights."

"Is that so? Quite a shame. The view is quite lovely from up top." Said the woman. A small smile appearing on her face as she started to stare off into space.

The chihuahua stared to growl viciously. But quickly ceased to as its owner curled her hand around it's neck.

"Now, now Sonny. Behave." Spoke the woman with a slight hiss. Causing the small dog to whimper slightly. His companions didn't seem to find this suspicious.

"Sonny. Is that his name?" Percy asked.

"No." said the woman, with a somewhat strained smile. Though Percy didn't notice this.

The rest of the elevator ride was in silence. After reaching the top, the doors opened. Him and Grover were quickly dragged along by a very giddy Annabeth. The observatory deck reminded Percy of a tin can with carpeting. With rows of small windows looked out over the city on one side and the river on the other.

The view was okay in Percy's opinion. But he wasn't exactly thrilled with the idea of being in a confined space two hundred meters in the air. Annabeth on the other hand didn't seem to care. She kept talking about the specifications of the Arch, it's structural supports, how she'd make the windows bigger and how she'd design a see-through floor. Percy didn't doubt that she could have stayed here all day and continue to ramble. But luckily for Percy, the park ranger said that the observation deck would close in a few minutes.

Percy didn't hesitate to start to drag his companions to the exit, he loaded them both into the elevator and was about to get in himself when he noticed that two other visitors were already in the cart.

"The next car sir." Said the Ranger politely. To which Percy nodded.

"We'll get out." Quickly said Annabeth, ready to step back onto the observation deck. "We'll wait with you."

Percy shook his head. At this point, it'd only complicate things.
"Naw it's ok. I'll see you guys at the bottom."

Both Grover and Annabeth reluctantly let the elevator door close, and it started its descent.

Now the only people on the observation deck were Percy, the park ranger, a small child with his parents and the woman with the chihuahua.

Percy smiled a bit uneasily at the young woman. Who in turn smiled back, but it was obviously strained.

Suddenly the woman's chihuahua escaped from her arms and started aggressively yapping at Percy.

"Stop." The woman said, clearly angry. "Now's not the time." She looked back at the other people, who turned to see what the commotion is about.

Time? Time for what? Percy didn't know, but his gut was telling him that it was nothing good. He faintly heard the small boy saying 'doggy' and trying to approach it but was quickly pulled back by his parents. Percy barley registered it, his attention solely on the dog in front of him.

The chihuahua didn't listen. Instead, it yapped even louder, baring its teeth, foam leaking from its black lips.

The woman's face twisted into a snarl as she looked down onto at the still barking dog.
"You'll be punished for this later, my son."

Percy froze for a moment.
"Did you just call that Chihuahua your son?" Asked Percy, shivering slightly as said dog's eyes turned bloodshot.

"Not chihuahua boy. Chimera." Said the woman, her anger obvious.

A sudden thud alerted Percy, causing him to look away for a second. The park ranger and small family were laying on the floor. There was no blood, but Percy knew he couldn't focus on that right now.

He looked back to the Chihuahua and the woman. The dog's barks were getting louder by the second as it started to grow in size. First to the size of a Doberman, then a lion. The barks turned into roars. The tail elongated into a body of a serpent. The head was now that of a lion, with a blood-caked mane. Back legs were hooved, like that of a goat. The Chimera was so tall that it's back scrapped across the roof.

Percy's hands grew numb. He couldn't manage to uncap his sword, Riptide, as he knew that the Chimera in front of him would lunge even at the slightest movement from him. His eyes quickly shifted back to the woman, who had not moved an inch from her spot.

Her pupils were now slitted, her eyes glaring. Making Percy feel as if he's looking into the eyes of a horned desert viper. Dark scales appeared over her arms, her fingernails turning into claws. A forked tongue broke out between her lips before quickly disappearing back into her mouth.

"That old bastard Zeus wanted for one of my children to test you Perseus Jackson. I suggest you take up your weapon and prepare yourself. I am the mother of monsters, Echidna. Now stand and fight, Hero!" She hissed, the Chimera roaring viciously.

Percy stared. Unable to move, but he did manage to spout out the thought running through his head.
"Isn't that a type of anteater?"

After saying that, all Percy heard was the growls of the Chimera and the beating of his own heart.

Echidnas' expression was hard to describe. But Percy immediately knew that he did something wrong. If his trembling arms were anything to go by.

"Yes. Indeed, it is. A rather foolish son of Hermes decided to poke fun at me and name that creature 'in my honour'. He did not live long past that. And I suggest that you stop playing a jester Percy Jackson. I am in a very foul mood. You'd do well not to worsen it. I have given you a chance to take up arms and you simply stood there. Most foolish. No more chances. Go my son. But do not think I forgot about your punishment." Said Echidna slowly, glaring at both the child of Poseidon and the Chimera.

The monster charged, lion teeth gnashing. But Percy managed to leap aside and dodge the bite. Percy quickly uncapped the pen, which turned into a gleaming bronze blade. He quickly ran at the monster, taunting it.
"Hey, Chihuahua!"

The Chimera turned faster than Percy thought possible. Before he could even swing his sword, the chimera opened its maw and a column of flame shot out. Percy dived through the explosion. The carpet under him burst into flames. The heat so intense that it seared off his eyebrows.

He looked back to where he once stood, only to see a massive, gaping hole in the side of the Arch. As the chimera turned around, Percy slashed down on its neck, but the blade bounced back harmlessly off of the rhinestone collar around the Chimera's neck.

Percy was too focused trying to regain his balance and completely forgot about the snake tail that the Chimera possessed. He didn't manage to react in time as the snake bit into his calf. Percy felt like his entire leg was just set aflame. He bit back the pain and tried to jam his sword into the chimera's open maw, only for the snake tail to wrap around his ankle and pull him off balance, his blade falling out of his hand, spinning out of the hole in the Arch and into the Mississippi river below.

He managed to get back on his feet, but he knew it was for nothing, he had lost. Without the weapon, he didn't stand a chance. If that wasn't bad enough, he could feel the burning sensation reach his chest, meaning that the poison most likely got into his heart by now.

He backed up to the hole in the side of the Arch. The chimera Advanced, growling, smoke curling from its lips. Echidna hadn't moved an in from her spot. And was giving him a look of disappointment.

"You're supposed to be a son of Poseidon? Seems it's not just the hunters. They don't make 'heroes' as they used to it seems." She muttered to herself, but it was loud enough for Percy to hear.

The chimera growled. And just as it was going to release another column of flame from its maw, it was suddenly batted down onto the floor by its mother.

"I don't remember telling you to finish him off yet did I? No wonder you all have grown arrogant. If this is supposed to be the child of Poseidon…Your ego's have been fed from killing weak demigods such as this. Pathetic." She hissed, holding down the chimera with one hand as it whimpered, terrified.

Percy looked back over the edge of the hole, where the river glittered down below. He hesitated.

"If you are a child of Poseidon." Said Echidna, turning her head towards him. "Then you would not fear the water below us. Jump. Show me that the water will not harm you. Jump and retrieve your weapon. Prove your bloodline!"

Once again, he hesitated. His breath caught in his throat. He quickly glanced back down. It was his mistake.

He couldn't even see her move. Was what Percy thought as he gripped onto the clawed hand that wrapped itself around his neck and dangled him over the two-hundred-meter drop. He felt himself slowly getting chocked as he desperately gasped for air.

"You are Faithless." Echidna said, tightening her grip around his neck. "You do not trust the gods. I cannot blame you, child. The gods have no faith in you as well. You will not last long in this world. Better you die now. The poison has long since gotten to your heart. I wonder, would Poseidon weep for your death?"

With that she let go, dropping the young demigod into the depths of the river below. After a few seconds she heard a faint splash. Satisfied she turned around, only to see that the Chimera was about to start eating the knocked-out mortals.

Echidna silently walked behind her son. When close enough, with a single motion she tore off the snake tail. Causing the beast to cry out in pain.

"Who gave you permission to eat those mortals?" She hissed, eyes glowing. "Do not think for a second that I've forgotten about your punishment. Perhaps a few years down in Tartarus will remind you how to behave and listen to your mother."

The chimera whimpered for a moment. But quickly, rage overtook its senses. It lunged at its mother. Claws outstretched and ready to maim.

Echidna merely stepped forward and put her arm out, catching her son by his throat. She immediately crushed his throat in her hand. The beast gave a final muted roar before it burst into golden dust. Leaving behind only a claw and a fang.

Echidna snorted in displeasure.

She turned around and stared at a dark section of the Arch and maintained her gaze for a few seconds.
"I know you are there. Come out."

A dark figure leapt out of the shadow, the white skeletal mask covering their face.
"I assume that Mihaly sent you to follow them?" She asked plainly, staring down the assassin.

"Indeed." Was their simple reply. The robed man looked around the area, first to the unconscious people, then to the hole in the side of the Arch. "It may not be my place, but I must ask; was there not a simpler way to resolve this?" Asked Cursed arm. Tilting his head in curiosity.

Echidna scoffed. "That old fool Zeus wouldn't have settled for anything that was not to his dramatic taste. He told me to kill the boy, but I couldn't care less. I'm no longer obliged to follow his orders."

Thunder rumbled in the distance. Black clouds suddenly appeared over the area.

"Throw a hissy fit all you want Zeus! I'm sure Rhea is proud that her son is being an immature little shit because his favourite toy was stolen!" She yelled back, coming up to the hole in the wall.

Lightning struck without warning. Causing cursed arm to jump back. As the flash of light cleared. It revealed Echidna. Her clothes completely destroyed. Yet Echidna herself was unharmed. Draconic wings sprouted from her back. She curled them around herself to preserve most of her modesty.

She smirked as she looked up to the sky again.

"Is that all? Seems that without your little toy, you don't amount to much, Zeus. Go on. Try again." She taughtened. Smiling smugly, exposing her sharp fangs.

Thunder rumbled again. An angry, agitated sound. But no lightning struck, and the black clouds vanished.

Echidna scoffed again. Turning back to the assassin who stayed quiet and watched the event transpire.

"You have grown truly terrifying. Mother of monster. A fitting title." Said the skeletal assassin. Slight admiration at his voice.

Echidna said nothing for a while. She turned around and started walking away.
"If you do not hurry, then you will lose their trail."

Was all she said before she disappeared completely.

Cursed arm chuckled. "What a terrifying woman."

---

She huffed as she sat down on a bar stool. After completing the assignment set by Zeus, she got dressed again. Something more appropriate for when she met her son. Just thinking about him made her happier.

"Time sure flies by." She muttered to herself.

After a while of indecision of what to wear. She settled on a plain black shirt and light blue jeans. An unzipped red leather jacket over her black shirt. She didn't bother putting on any makeup or anything. She found it annoying, and her son didn't especially care how she looked.

"Can I offer you anything to drink madame?" Asked a smooth, aged voice.

She looked up and spotted the bartender in front of her. An aged gentleman in a dark uniform. A blue, white dotted tie around his neck neatly went into his undershirt. His hair was white and hung loosely, yet elegantly. With a white moustache, neatly trimmed.

Echidna's face remined impassive. She discreetly looked around the bar, 'The spiders web', she was the only patron in the building. For now, at least.

"And what can you offer?" She asked, her voice remaining even.

The bartender smiled. "Only the finest assortments of Cocktails, Ales, Ciders and Wine." He said with pride. Gesturing to the numerous spirts bottles lining the shelf behind him. "I assure you, anything you choose will be to your taste."

"Oh?" She feigned intrigue. "In that case. How about a Boulevardier?" She said with a small smirk.

The bartender smirked back. "Excellent choice."

As the bartender started to prepare the cocktail, she decided to look around a bit. The place was well lit. Walls shifting between a dark and light blue. The stool she sat on was admittedly comfortable. The bar table was well polished wood. And although there was nobody there except for her and the bartender, the atmosphere was quite pleasant.

"Voilà!" Said the bartender, presenting the finished Boulevardier. The liquid had a soft red colour, with a twisted orange peel as a garnish.

She picked it up and took a small sip. Savouring the flavour of the cool cocktail. She set her glass down.
"It's been a long time since I had a good cocktail. Especially a Boulevardier. Consider me surprised." She gave her verdict. Taking another sip.

The bartender simply smiled.
"I'm afraid that the art if lost with many of the younger generations. They act too hasty, don't let the drink to set. And don't put enough soul and heart into it. Truly a sad time."

"For such an 'evil' mathematical genius. You sure do make a good barman. And good Boulevardier. Quite unexpected. Then again, I didn't know you even existed until recently." She complimented. Setting her drink down.

The bartender quirked an eyebrow.
"Is it really that unexpected?" He asked, more to himself than to her. "Well, I'd like to say that it's unexpected for the one known as the 'Mother of Monsters' to be a connoisseur of finer drinks, but that would be a lie. It was well within my calculations." He stated. Taking an empty glass from the counter, before inspecting it and starting to clean it.

"Careful now. That arrogance will get you into something you won't find a way out of." She taunted. Sucking on the orange peel lightly, relishing the tangy taste it provided.

"It is not arrogance my lady. Merely experience and thorough calculations." Replied the bar tender, closing his eyes as he continued to clean the glass.

She heard the main door open and close. A small bell chiming quietly. She half turned around, wanting to only spare a glance. But once she saw who it was, she turned around fully. Seeing a familiar sight of long black hair with auburn tips, and grey/yellow heterochromia eyes.

She couldn't contain her happiness and a genuine smile bloomed across her face. Ah, she didn't realise how much she missed him until he was right in front of her.

"Are you sure you are in the right place, young man?" She teased. Standing up from her stool and walking up to him, meeting him half-way.

He smiled right back at her, eyes sparkling.
"I was told to meet here with my mother. I didn't see anyone waiting outside so I came in." He said. His voice slightly giddy.

He stepped forward and wrapped his arms around her. Pulling himself into her embrace. She returned the gesture, wrapping her arms around his smaller body, pulling him in slightly. It cost almost all her willpower to prevent herself from shouting in joy and lifting him up.
"It's good to see you, mother." He said quietly looking up.

Because of the height difference, her son only reached just below her chest. Then again, she was above average in height right now by mortal standards.

"It's good to see you too, my beloved child." She said quietly, leaning down and planting a small kiss on his head.

Only after had they separated from their embrace, did she notice the second person that entered after her son. Familiar black hair and equally dark eyes. Wearing her signature leather jacket and kimono combo.

Shiki had a small smile on her face. Her eyes visibly softened as she looked at the scene. Echidna smirked and discreetly winked towards the Asian woman.
"Has he been behaving himself?" She asked, still smirking.

Out of the corner of her eye, she could see Mihaly looking up at her, slightly confused.

Shiki smirked back. Though, hers was slightly less visible, and a bit strained, obviously not used to making this expression.
"Hmm. Well, he was being a bit bratty on the way here. And he kept running off every now and again. He's been quite a headache to be honest."

"Is that so?" She feigned surprise. Looking down at the still confused boy. "Seems that I'll have to ground you. I don't remember raising a disobedient little delinquent."

As if it finally clicked in his head, Mihaly pouted. Causing the two women to laugh.
"Not funny." He sulked.

She ruffled his hair lovingly. "It is a bit." She admitted. Taking his hand into hers and brought him over to the bar counter. He climbed onto the stool next to hers and only once he was comfortable did, she let go.

Seeing that her job was Shiki disappeared into motes of blue lights. A small smile on her lips.

"So, tell me. How have you been? You're still eating properly, right? No one's causing you problems, right? Have you found a girl that you like yet?" She asked, sly smile on her lips.

At his mother's rapid-fire questions, Mihaly couldn't help but shake his head. Of course, that's what she'd ask first.
"Yes, I'm still eating properly mom. Miss Boudica and Miss Raikou pay especially close attention to make sure I do. No one's bothering me. Well, no one that I know anyway. There have been a few rude people, but no one that I know. Everyone is working hard right now. And with the bolt and helm stolen, we've been set back a bit." Said Mihaly. Echidna nodding along and smiling. "Though I don't understand your last question." Finished Mihaly, a cute, thoughtful expression on his face.

Echidna laughed and shook her head.
"Oh Mihaly, what am I ever going to do with you?"

Mihaly simply looked at her, still confused.

She shook her head. "Forget about it. It was a small joke on my part."

Mihaly said a quick 'ok' and forgot about it entirely. Much to Echidna's bemusement.

"And what poison for the young man?" Asked the bartender, who had been standing off to the side, allowing the two some privacy.

"I suggest you don't give him any of your 'poison' if you know what's good for you." She hissed with a glare. Her pupils turning slitted just briefly.

If the old man was disturbed by this, he didn't show it.
"Ah. My apologies. I merely meant to ask whether the young man wanted something to drink. A slip of the tongue, I assure you."

She huffed, turning back to her son. Her eyes returning to normal and her expression softening.

'It is incredible, how she shifts from open, suffocating hostility, worthy of a monster, to a doting mother, ready to spoil her child rotten. Truly fascinating.' Absently thought the bartender. Setting down the glass he was cleaning.
"So? Would you like anything to drink, young man?" He asked again.

"Water please." Politely stated Mihaly. Earning a nod of approval from his mother.

It only took a few seconds for the bartender to return with a pint glass of water. After which he excused himself and started to clean a few tables in the back corners of the bar.

They stayed silent for a moment. Content with enjoying each other's company for now. After a while, Echidna gently placed her hand on the side of his head and kissed him gently on the cheek.
"I love you. Mihaly. Never forget that." She said softly. Smiling down at her son.

Mihaly smiled back.
"I love you too mom."

She shifted around in order to face him properly.
"So, how did it go with the Amazons?" She asked. Lightly sipping her Boulevardier. But her whole attention was solely on him.

Mihaly smiled brightly. His eyes lit up in pure joy and he quickly sucked in a breath of air. Like a child that was about to tell their parents about the how fun their first day at school was.

"It went great. We managed to do a complete take over quite easily. Well, I say 'we', but in reality, it was just Penthesilea. She managed to install herself as the Queen again, as well as tore down the slave market so fast that none of the amazons could get a word in. She quickly made it clear that she's going to make some changes and…and I think this is the first time she's been happy since her sister's death." Mihaly voice was filled with enthusiasm and joy, as if retelling an epic hero story.

Echidna perked up slightly at the last part.
"Oh? What makes you say that?" She asked, slightly intrigued.

Mihaly smiled softly and said.
"Well, after her rule had been established, she took me to, now her, royal chambers that the Amazons have in apparently every major location. She smiled at me. Openly. She thanked me and congratulated me for doing a good job. Even though I didn't really do anything." He muttered slightly at the end.

Echidna sat still. A smirk slowly forming on her lips. She chocked back a laugh that built up in her throat. She took a moment to compose herself. Taking another sip of her still cold cocktail.

"And how did she establish her right rule exactly my son?" She already knew the most likely answer, she just wanted to be sure.

Mihaly perked up, straightening his back slightly.
"As, trial through combat. A death match against the former queen. Though, we managed to avoid the death part." He answered softly. A small amount of relief entering his eyes.

"Of course." She grunted. Finishing her Boulevardier. "Well. Tell me what else has happened. I haven't seen you for two years and I'm keeping you to myself for today." A tone of finality entered her voice. Making it clear that it wasn't negotiable.

Not that Mihaly minded.

"Well, Lady Persephone introduced me to Lady Demetre and…"

---

Ares smirked to himself as he watched the scene play out on his phone. He sent the three quest brats to get caught into a trap set up by his brother and good lord did they look pathetic. He chuckled to himself and put his phone away. The little bastards would probably be coming back now, but he had a few minutes to spare.

He took a step forward and felt himself bump into someone. He looked down and saw that he knocked over some small white-haired girl. With a scar over her left eye and garbed in dark clothes. She looked up at him with wide green eyes. A small frown on her lips.

Ares frowned.
"Beat it kid." He growled.

Normally children would run from his appearance alone, he'd expect the little girl to be pissing herself and running as fast as her pathetic little legs would let her with the amount of his divine energy that he was releasing along with some bloodlust. This wasn't the case with right now.

The girl simply stood up and blankly stared at him.
"It's your fault for not looking where you're going and walking into us."

Ares stayed silent. Before grunting in agitated fashion. A scowl appearing on his face.
"Mouthy little shit, are you? Guess I have to teach you to respect your betters."

He reached down to grab the white-haired girl but before he could touch her a large hand wrapped itself around his wrist.
"Oi, the hell you think you're doing ya bastard?" A loud rough voice sounded next to him.

The god of war looked up. Holding his wrist was a large man. Standing at almost two meters tall. Well-muscled and obviously used to combat. He was young looking, with spiky crimson hair that was swept backwards into a high ponytail. His fringe covering his right eye. Despite the man's height and body-type he was clearly of Asian descent.

The man was glaring at Ares with his one visible red eye. The grip on his wrist tightening.
"Well? Gonna talk, or do ya only pick on little kids? How about someone yar own size for a change?" Yelled the man pulling in the god of war with a surprising amount of strength.

Ares smirked.
"Heh? My own size? Are you suggestion yourself? You don't look like much. And I suggest you let go of me if you know what's good for you." Taunted the war god, trying to rip out his wrist from the mortal's hand, only to be surprised that he was unable to do so.

The blood-haired man scowled.
"The hell d' you say? You wanna start? I ain't lettin' go of nothing till you apologise to the kid."

Ares laughed.
"And why the hell would I apologise to a little brat that got in my way. Besides. You won't like it when I get pissed off buddy. You might not live much past here. So, fuck off if you know what's good for you."

The man bristled slightly.
"Oh? What's wrong. Too much of a coward? The whole bad boy look all for show? Can't even apologise when yer in the wrong or man up to take the blame? Or are yer just too thick to understand. What a moron-"

The man was cut off by a punch to the face from Ares, who landed a mean left hook to the side of the man's head.
"Should've listened when you had the chance runt. Now things are gonna get ugly." Ares taunted again, trying to pull his hand away. Only to find that his wrist was still grasped tightly by the giant man. The grip somehow being even tighter and was causing the War god some discomfort.

"Oi, is that all you got?" Said the young man, voice oddly calm and his head cocked back, not giving Ares a clear view of his face.
"Cause that ain't how you throw a hit. This is!"

Before Ares could react, he found his head suddenly flying back, his sunglasses clattering on the floor. He quickly reorganized himself and straightened himself. Only to get hit in the face again and kneed in the gut.
"C'mon. You were so confident just a few seconds ago, what happened?" Taunted the red-haired man. An intense expression on his face.

Ares got pulled up by his wrist again. Just as the red-haired man prepared another hit, Ares' head suddenly snapped forward in a headbutt. Landing it successfully, an audible crack was heard. The grip on his wrist loosened, Ares smirked and pulled himself free, before proceeding to grab the young man by his black leather coat.
"You said something punk?"

Ares began pummelling the man. Landing hit after hit. Till the man's face was bloody. Just as Ares was about to hit again, his fist got deflected and an unseen fist landed an uppercut on his lower jaw, clamping it shut and almost causing him to bite off his own tongue.

"That's more like it!" Shouted the man. Looking straight at Ares.

His entire face was red, blood dripped from his chin and onto the ground and his clothes, even seeping into his already blood red crimson hair. But the man didn't seem to be bothered by it.

There was a mad gleam in his eye, that almost seemed to glow a bloodthirsty red, a maniac grin threatening to split his face. He roared savagely and first hit Ares in the stomach, then kneed him in the exact same place. The god of war stifling the grunts of pain, fury in his flaming eyes.

The red-haired man suddenly frowned and made a grunt of displeasure. Three quick hits later and Ares was kneeling on the floor.

He yelled in fury as he got up ready to kill the mortal who dared to humiliate him like this, only to find the giant red-haired man nowhere to be seen. He reached up and wiped his mouth, gold ichor flowing from it like a waterfall.

He whirled around searching. Still searching for the man, only to find Percy, Grover and Annabeth a few meters away from him, the son of Poseidon holding his shield.

Ares grunted and snatched the shield from the boys' hands and walked over to his motorcycle. He threw them a blue bag and gestured to a truck parked in the small cafes' parking lot.
"That's your ride west. Hope you little shits have a nice journey since I've been more than kind to you as it is. Now fuck off!" He yelled revving the motorcycle's engine.

"Wait!" Yelled Percy. "You promised me information about my mother!"

"She's alive" Yelled back Ares. "Pray that we never see each other again, punk."

And with a roar of an engine the god of war took off.

A grunt of discontent was faintly heard from a nearby alleyway.

"He's gone. And the bastard didn't notice it was missing. Good." Spoke the red-haired man, blood still dripping from his face.

Beside him was the little white-haired girl. A black ski-hat in her arms.
"Are you ok?" She asked innocently, climbing onto his shoulder and started to stich up the open wounds.

The man laughed. "Ha! I've survived worse. This looks worse than it actually is."

The girl only hummed in response. "You wanted to keep fighting."

The man grunted. "Yeah. I was really getting into it. But master gave us a job. Even a mad bastard like me knows that the job comes first. 'sides. Master would probably upset if we failed."

The girl shook her head.
"Brother wouldn't be upset at us. He'd find another way"

The man didn't say anything, only releasing a small 'hmm' before allowing the girl to continue stitching up his head.

After she finished, the girl simply sat on the giants' shoulders.
"So, should we head to the underworld now?" She asked, head tilting cutely.

The man grunted.
"Naw' it'll be quicker to just give it to master. Sides' I really don't like that place. Gives me the creeps. And I'm a berserker for fuck's sake!"

The girl merely nodded in response. A smile across her face.
"We'd like to see brother again. Brother is warm and kind."

The red-haired man roared with laughter.
"We'll then. Let's set off, shall we? Don't wanna keep master or Hades waiting now do we?"

---

Percy stood in awe, his lower jaw on the floor as he stared at the marvel in front of him. He could tell that Annabeth and Grover were much the same. The Lotus Casino and Resort was truly an impressive sight.

To start off with, the whole lobby was a giant game room. An indoor slide snaked around the glass elevator, which went up at least forty floors. There was a climbing wall on the side of one of the buildings, and an indoor bungee-jumping bridge. At the far side of the lobby, Percy spotted some kids in virtual-reality suits, with working laser guns. And hundreds of video games, each one being the size of a widescreen TV.

At a farther entrance deeper into the main building. Percy spotted a large gold and green sign, on it were what seemed to be letters of Solid gold that radiated a golden light on their own. It was complete murder on his eyes, and he forced them away.

"Hey G-man. Can you read what it says over there?" He asked his friend, pointing to the golden letters.

The satyr squinted his eyes slightly. And after a second responded with.
"Casino…Camelot?"

Both Percy and Annabeth turned their head to him, perplexed.

"Camelot? I thought it was the Lotus Casino and resort. And isn't that…" Started Annabeth, her eyes already having that intense look when she tried to figure something out.

"Indeed" said a voice behind them. Soft, yet regal at the same time.

They turned around immediately and all three could feel themselves blush. Behind them stood a tall woman. With golden hair like a lion's fur and piercing emerald eyes. She wore something akin to a single piece bunny suit that left absolutely nothing to imagination. The upper part pristine white with golden accents and the bottom part a royal blue. A golden mini crown sat atop her head, on said crow were also two white bunny ears.

All three campers were taken aback by the absolute beauty standing before them. And while Percy couldn't tell why, he felt like he was standing in front of Royalty, that was the sort of feeling he got from the woman before him.

"Welcome, to the Lotus Hotel and Casino Camelot. Here is your room key and Lotus Cash Cards. Your room is on the top floor 4001. Just take the elevator and you'll be there. I hope you enjoy your stay. And for your information young lady, me and my friend recently bought the properties and split it between us." Said the woman, a bright smile on her face that had Percy mesmerized at how much kindness and sympathy it radiated.

Before the woman left, he quickly snapped himself back to reality and called out.
"Excuse me, but we…"

The woman simply kept smiling and shook her head.
"You do not need to worry yourself over anything. The bill has already been taken care of. No extra charges, no tips needed. If you need anything, such as extra bubbles for the hot tub or perhaps skeet targets for the shooting range, or food delivered to your room, then feel free to call the front desk. Oh, and the cards work in all the facilities. Restaurants, games, The indoor theatre and Cinema as well as the rides." She explained. And although Percy was sure she had done this hundreds of times, she did so with a genuine smile on her face.

"And what's the limit?" He asked, holding up his card.

Percy knew there was some sort of mistake here. They were probably mistaken for some millionaire's kids.

The golden-haired woman just laughed. It was beautiful, Percy thought.
"That was quite amusing. But off you go now. You and your friends are no doubt tired and in need of proper rest. Again. Enjoy your stay, Percy Jackson, Annabeth Chase, Grover Underwood." She said walking off.

Percy's eyes widened to the size of dinner plates, his jaw on the floor.

"Come on seaweed brain!" Said the daughter of Athena, who started to drag him towards the elevator.

"Wait! How do you…" Percy shouted looking to where the woman walked off to, only to find her gone.

She laughed lightly as she watched the son of Poseidon get dragged away. She turned to the entrance of her casino before a familiar voice stopped her.

"Are you having fun, Supreme Lion king?" Asked her amused colleague and co-owner.

She turned her head to the side. Standing only a few feet away was the 'Caster of Midrash'. A woman slightly taller than herself, with dark skin and baby-blue eyes. Wearing a red robe with golden accents. She wore fancy jewellery all around her body. Gold and rubies. She looked like some sort of Arabic princess. Utterly stunning.

"I don't know what you're talking about. I'm merely doing my job greeting guests and answering questions." She responded with a sly smile.

The Queen of Sheba was not convinced. Her eyes gained a certain shine to them.
"Hmm. I don't believe you. I guess I could overlook this, but it's going to cost you." She said in a sing song tone. Grinning.

She raised a delicate eyebrow. Amusement filtering to her face.
"Oh? Then how about we play for it then?" She suggested, bringing out a pack of cards, from which one of each kind started levitating and started forming a semi-circle around her.

The dark-skinned woman paled slightly. Her expression turning nervous.
"Now, now. No need to get hasty." She chuckled. Her expression suddenly being drained of any previous amusement and nervousness. "All fun aside, good job getting them into the building. The caster version of Gilgamesh said that we're derailing too much and too early. This should give master ample time to get the helm back to Hades and give a full report. Assuming of course that Persephone doesn't start fussing over master again. Ah, Clairvoyance is truly a blessing."

She simply nodded along. "Indeed. It's quite surprising, how much support the king of heroes has been offering." She muttered to herself.

Suddenly a Card floated in front of her, king of hearts. The Depiction faded away and was replaced by a few short lines of text.

She picked the card from the sky. Smiling gently by the end of it.
"It's from Master." She told her curious companion. "He says that the helm has been returned to Hades as well as a report of the entire situation has been given. He's coming here to check up on the Di Angelo siblings. So, he'll be here in about an hour, our time."

Her companion nodded.
"Well then. I'm off! I'll see you later Lion king. I have to go count tonight's profits!" Excitedly stated the dark-skinned woman, happily walking off with a skip in her step.

She shook her head at her co-owner's antics, before heading over to her usual poker table.

After a few very disappointing games, for the patrons and guests not for her, she noticed Percy and his friend quickly heading towards the Entrance/Exit. She looked at a nearby clock and nodded. It was about the correct time. Utilizing her natural speed, she seemingly appeared out of nowhere for them. The same smile as she last wore.

"Leaving so soon?" She asked, her tone not betraying anything.

Percy and Annabeth had a slightly panicked expression set on their faces, legs twitching as if prepared to run past her if need be.

"Yes. Sorry. It's a great place, but we really need to go." Hastily said the son of Poseidon, already positioning himself to run past her with his friends.

She stepped aside, allowing them a clear path to the exit.
"In that case, I hope you've enjoyed your time here. Thank you for visiting us and we hope you'll come back again." Her tone was professional and pleasant. And no sooner did she say those words, the three campers took off, Percy shouting a 'thank you' on the way.

---

Percy could say with full certainty, that he got tired of all the shenanigans that the demigod life had to offer. He really wished he could return to his normal life. His normal life, with his mother there, still smiling and comforting him when he needed him. With her being happy and not living with smelly Gabe.

But no. Life is never easy. After leaving the Lotus Hotel and Camelot Casino, they got a taxi by Annabeth's suggestion. And sped all the way down to L.A. At Santa Monica beach, Percy was slightly disappointed at not being able to see his father.

And now they were getting chased by some local posh white kids down the alleyways of west Hollywood.

Annabeth managed to find a still open store in which we hid in. Which brings us to the situation at hand.

With both Grover and Annabeth tied to waterbeds by rope around their ankles, mid-section and under their armpits.

Procrustes, under the guise of 'Crusty' had tricked them into 'testing' his water beds, only for them to start getting stretched because they 'did not fit' his required specifications of Six foot.

Percy was in the process of tricking Procrustes into his own trap, when the giant suddenly collapsed. Making Percy jump and the rope tying and stretching Annabeth and Grover suddenly slackened, as if dead.

A black throwing knife was imbedded deep in the giant's head. So deep in fact, that if they rolled him over, they'd see the tip poking out of the other end, the blade clattering quietly on the floor. The body turned to dust shortly after. Annabeth and Grover wasted no time getting off the cursed beds.

"What happened?" Asked the daughter of Athena, biting back a pained groan as she rubbed her back.

"I don't know, but I don't want to stay to find out either! Come on, I know where the entrance to the underworld is, it's only a block away." Said Percy, quickly heading towards the door.

"Hold on. Gives us a minute, we were almost stretched to death there." Whined Grover.

After they left, from underneath a shadow of one of the waterbeds, a dark robed figure with a skeletal mask emerged.

They picked up the knife and started to wipe it on their robe.
'I was only supposed to observe and create a report, but I'm sure lord mage intended for them to survive, so it shouldn't cause too much of a problem.' Mused the assassin.

He turned the blade over and inspected it.
'Truly curious, blades made from Stygian Iron, light and precise, especially deadly to monster of the Greek world. I must thank lord mage for commissioning them.'

---

As Percy looked down into the polluted river that their barge was traveling on. The water was dark and oily, swirling with bones, dead fish and other strange things- plastic dolls, crushed carnations, soggy diplomats with glint edges.

"The River Styx," Whispered Annabeth, her tone a combination of fear and disbelief. "It's so…"

"Polluted." Finished Charon, his semi-British accent gone replaced by an eerie, echoey voice. "For thousands of years, you humans have been throwing in everything you come across – hopes, dreams, wishes that never came true. Irresponsible waste management if you ask me. Although, what you're seeing right now is much better than what It used to be. Look there."

Percy looked to where a bony finger was pointing. It was a bit deeper into the river, but he could still see it clearly. A few blobs of clear, see-through water. They were getting bigger, very, very slowly. Almost as if something was pushing the outer layer of the clean water and purifying whatever it touched. A stack of dirty gold got cleaned and shined brightly, a broken bicycle got repaired and a crumpled up wet family photo became dry and clear. Showing a smiling Father, Mother and two daughters.

"Amazes me every time." Idly added the ferryman of the dead.

Percy turned to see the reactions of his friends. As someone new to this side of the world, he didn't know what was appropriate. Both Grover and Annabeth were completely astonished. The satyr was making some sort of exited bleating noise, muttering something about 'Pan', 'goddess' and 'it feels like her presence'.

Annabeth was trying to absorb every bit of detail with her eyes, which rapidly moved from place to place, before she turned to Charon with a questioning gaze.

The ferryman laughed eerily after noticing. "Want to know, don't 'cha? Well, old Styx-" Suddenly a blast of water came from the river, striking the ferryman and dampening his clothes. "Ahem. Styx took an interest in a certain boy that came here a bit ago. From what I know the boy somehow managed to start cleaning the river with great success. They struck some kind of deal, don't know what kind though. And I have no idea how the kid does it. And the old hag seems to always be in a good mood when he's here." As he said that a large bone flew out of the river at incredible speed, almost knocking Charon into it.

The ferryman of the dead cursed under his raspy breath. And before they knew it, they were standing on the black sand of the underworlds shore. They noticed Charon look around, as if searching for someone.

After a while he sighed.
"Seems like old bone-face is somewhere else. Mind you, he isn't exactly the easiest to talk to. Oh well. You might actually have a chance now. Ha! Chance!" He laughed and started to lead the boat back to the mortal world.

Percy had one thing running through his mind.'Things can't get any worse'

---

He really wished he could take back those words right about now. He was in the throne room in Olympus. Before him, quite possible the strongest beings in existence. Twelve grand thrones set in a 'U' shape. The seats of the Olympian gods. Currently only two gods were present.

In the middle throne, Zeus, lord of the gods. He wore a dark blue, pinstriped suit. He sat on a simple throne of solid platinum. He had a well-trimmed beard, marble grey and black like a storm cloud. His face was proud and handsome and grim. His eyes, rainy grey. He radiated power and authority and there was an unmistakable scent of ozone around him.

The god sitting next to him was his brother, without a doubt, but he was dressed very differently. He reminded Percy if a beachcomber from Key west. He wore leather sandals, khaki Bermuda shorts, and a Tommy Bahama shirt with coconuts and parrots all over it. His skin was deeply tanned, his hands scarred like an old-time fisherman's. His hair was black like Percy's. Their faces had the same brooding look that often got Percy branded a rebel. But the sea gods' sea-green eyes were surrounded by sun-crinkles that indicated that he smiled a lot.

His 'throne' was a deep-sea fisherman's chair. The simple swivel kind, with a black leather seat and a built-in holster for a fishing pole. Instead of a fishing pole, the holster held a bronze trident, flickering with green light around the tips.

After returning the bolt and telling of his quest, Percy found himself kneeling, face down. The two gods were conversing with each other in ancient Greek. And while Percy couldn't understand much of what they were saying, he managed to wrap his head around one word, 'father'.

It looked to Percy that Poseidon was about to try and argue a point across, but Zeus cut him off.
"We will speak of this no more." Said Zeus. "I must personally go to purify this thunderbolt in the waters of the Lemnos before the solstice meeting. To remove the human taint from its metal."

He rose and looked down at Percy, the Lord of the skies' expression softened by the tiniest of margins. "You have done me a great service, boy. Few heroes could have accomplished as much."

"I had help sir." Said Percy. "Grover Underwood and Annabeth Chase-"

"To show you my thanks, I shall spare your life. I do not trust you Perseus Jackson. I do not like what your arrival means for the future of Olympus. But for the sake of peace in the family, I shall let you live."

"Um…thank you, sir." Said Percy, slightly shook.

"Do not presume to fly again. Do not let me find you here when I return. Otherwise, you shall taste this bolt. And It will be your last sensation." Promised the god of Thunder.

He turned to his brother. "The meeting shall be called soon brother. I hope you are satisfied." Grumbled the god.

Thunder rumbled the palace, and with a blinding flash of lightning, Zeus was gone.

---

Artemis appeared in the Throne room in a flash of silver light. She knew that this meeting would most likely be a long and tiresome one, so she might as well get comfortable. As she looked around, she noted that her father, Hera, Poseidon, and Athena were already here. And only a few seconds after she appeared, more flashes appeared around the room. By the point she got herself comfortable enough to sit through the, no doubt, many arguments that would break out, most of the council have assembled. Only Ares and Aphrodite not being present to no one's surprise.

She noticed that her father had his Master bolt back. Meaning that the son of Poseidon had completed the quest after all. She scoffed to herself. How was it that the son of her uncle managed to find something that neither she, her sister Athena, her idiot brother Apollo, and that meathead Ares could not?

A sudden flash in broke her out of her musings. She immediately scowled when it turned out to be the goddess of love, who had very happy expression on her face. She was practically radiating positive energy and love to the point of it being comparable of the Chernobyl incident.

Such an odd phenomenon had all the gods, in the room staring slightly slack-jawed. Zeus and Hera subconsciously started to hold each other's hands. Poseidon suddenly got a giant urge to see his wife, Dionysus being much the same.

Hephestus looked at his 'wife' in mild surprise and the faintest of blushes. Unable to take his eyes away.

Apollo and Hermes had red faces. Demetre stopped talking about all wheat-cereal and actually paid attention. Even Athena was blushing for some reason!

Artemis didn't know what was happening. But the sheer power and presence Aphrodite was releasing was enough to even affect her.

She thought of her lost son.

Zoe had recently returned from her journey to find him. Empty handed. Her lieutenant was greatly distraught by this, no matter how many times she told her not to worry. After many months of begging Artemis finally allowed her friend and pseudo-daughter to search for her lost child.

She gave the girl three years, but alas, no success. Zoe did mention that she feels like she came close many times only for him to slip away. But Artemis felt that she wasn't as sad as she would have been. Apparently, she had made a friend on those travels.

Her thoughts were cut short when the doors to the Throne room were thrown open. And an incredibly agitated Ares walked through, cursing under his breath so much and releasing such a murderous aura that he completely ruined the, admittedly, pleasant atmosphere.

As her half-brother sat on his throne, she watched as their father stood up and used his master bolt to summon a great pillar of lightning that struck Ares. Causing the war god to yell in pain.

After the bright light vanished, it revealed Ares, his hair sticking up, tips smoking. Ugly burn marks were spread out across his body, and he was slumped in his throne as if unconscious or dead. But the pained groan quickly dismissed that pleasant thought.

Zeus huffed and sat back on his throne.
"That was only a temporary punishment, my son. Now, to start this solstice!" His voice boomed across the room. Causing many to sigh and groan at the dramatic habit of the god.

And so, the meeting began. As expected, the main topic was the recently completed quest, which Artemis didn't pay much mind to. Since it ended up being another shouting competition as always, after that topic was concluded, other matters started to be discussed.

Throughout the whole ordeal, Artemis noticed something that stood out from normal. Aphrodite, as usual, didn't contribute much to the meeting. But instead of doing her makeup, painting her nails or making out with Ares like she usually did, she simply sat there, head tilted down slightly, a dreamy expression on her face and the smile she came in with hadn't wavered the slightest. It made Artemis slightly uncomfortable.

And now that she looked properly, it seems that she was completely ignoring Ares's catcalls, winks, and any attempt to get her attention. Huh. That's new.

Many hours passed, and Athena had come to an end of her monologue. She rolled up a scroll that wrapped the whole room. Now, Artemis loved her sister. She was one of the only deities that she could get along with, shared many views and opinions, as well as being fellow virgin goddesses. But by their father, could she simplify her points and not draw out the already long meetings?

Barely half of the council was even awake, those being herself, Athena, Poseidon, Zeus, and Aphrodite. Even Hera was nodding off.

Shaking himself into full lucidity. Her father slammed his Master bolt down. Waking up those who fell asleep.

"Ahem." He cleared his throat and turned to Athena. "Thank you for the…detailed analysis daughter. I shall take all that you said into consideration." Said Zeus, hoping to appease his daughter.

Which worked, as Athena beamed slightly and sat back down in her throne.

The lord of the sky huffed tiredly, wanting the meeting to be over. The recent days have been tiering enough.
"Does anyone else have anything to present at this solstice meeting?" He asked.

"While it may not be appropriate, I'm sure many of us are wondering about one thing." A soft voice said from the near hearth. Warm like a cosy blanket that you wrapped around yourself during harsh winters.

All gods and goddesses turned their attention to the hearth. A seemingly eight-year-old girl sat next to the fire. With mousy brown hair, and fire-red eyes that were warm and cosy. Wearing a simple brown dress with a scarf over her head.

The entire room instantly brightened up.

"Hestia! Apologies dear sister, we didn't notice you there." Said Zeus jovially suddenly full of energy. Much like the rest of the gods.

The goddess of the Hearth waved her hand dismissively. She turned to the goddess of love. Noticing this, Aphrodite straightened herself slightly.

"You came here in quite a pleased mood Aphrodite. I'm not saying it's a bad thing. It was rather pleasant in fact. It's been a long time since I've seen you so happy. Would you mind sharing what's gotten you in such a great mood?" Asked Hestia politely.

Aphrodite smiled in return, her posture slackening slightly.
"Oh, Hestia dear, how nice of you to notice. It's nothing big, but I guess I could announce it now rather than later." Said the lady of Doves. Eyes fluttering slightly.

Artemis scoffed to herself. The love goddess was probably going to brag about how she had the greatest time with some boy who she had sex with or about a new child of hers.

"I'd like to announce that the Amazon slave trade of young boys has been completely annihilated!" Giggled Aphrodite, covering her mouth slightly and having an all too happy expression on her face.

The gods didn't expect this. Some even face faulted.

"Ahem" Zeus coughed into his hand. "And how did it happen?" He asked, perplexed, not knowing how this is relevant to anything. He didn't even know that something like that existed. Not that it mattered either way.

Aphrodite just leaned back into her throne, waving her hand dismissively.
"Oh. Apparently, there was an Amazon that didn't agree with some policies and laws that have changed over the years. So, she challenged the current- oh sorry! Former, Queen to an Amazon death match. She won and took over. The changes have been implemented almost immediately. I went and congratulated the new Queen myself! Nice girl, if a bit boorish." Finished Aphrodite.

"I see." Said Zeus disinterested. It didn't affect him, and it was of no threat to Olympus.

Artemis, meanwhile, was interested in the prospect of a new Amazon Queen. Perhaps she could meet her and establish an alliance of some kind.

She noticed that her Aunt Demeter was looking thoughtful and muttering something under her breath that she just barely caught.
'Maybe I should bake him a cake? I wonder if he likes karidopita?'

Huh. So, someone caught her aunt's interest.

"Is there anything else?" Asked Zeus, hand on his forehead.

"Yes, there is." Said the Queen of gods, her expression neutral. Her back straight and her appearance dignified.

All attention was immediately given, pleasing the wife of Zeus.

"There has been unrest among the minor gods as of the recent years. It seems that there is a topic that is commonly spoken of between them, but I was unable to find the topic itself. They always became silent and shy away whenever I or another Olympian walked past or was in the Area. I'm sure you noticed, Athena." Said Hera, turning her gaze to her husband's bastard child.

The goddess of wisdom held a thoughtful expression for a second, her grey eyes becoming focused and intimidating. Realization finally struck her.

"Yes. Not only that, but according to Chiron, there has been a drastic decrease in unclaimed demigods returning and arriving to camp. As well as children of Minor gods have also started to disappear from the camp or have stopped returning for the summer. This is quite troubling. And it is unlikely that these events are not connected in some way." Mused Athena, speaking to herself more than anyone else.

Thunder rumbled faintly, a few eyes turned to Zeus, who had a grim expression on his face. He gripped his master bolt tightly, knuckles becoming white. It was obvious that the king's paranoid mind was working overtime right now.

"Apollo!" He bellowed, directing his gaze to the god of the sun.

Said God jumped in fright slightly.
"I swear this has nothing to do with me!" He said, waving his hands frantically.

"Fool! The prophecy! Has the prophecy changed or has it been altered perhaps! Is there any mention of father rising?" Bellowed the enraged god. Lightning sparking off of his body and the bolt in his hand.

All elder Olympians present snapped their heads towards Zeus, save for Poseidon who merely raised an eyebrow and muttered under his breath; 'We will speak of this no more, my ass.'

The blonde god of Prophecies paled drastically all of a sudden. Sweat dripping down his brow and he fidgeted in his seat slightly. It wasn't a good sign and it worried Artemis slightly to see her idiotic, annoying, buffoon of a brother like this.

"Ah, well. The Prophecy. Well…you see-" Fumbled the god, as if trying to find an appropriate an appropriate way to say it.

Artemis groaned. "Just say it Apollo. Stop trying to make things difficult for once."

Her brother grimaced for a fraction of a second, as if genuinely hurt. But it was too subtle for anyone to notice. There was a tense silence as everyone's attention was solely on Apollo.

"The prophecy is gone." Stated Apollo. His face set into a stony expression.

There was no sound in the room other than the crackling of the hearth. Taking this as a sign to continue Apollo cleared his throat slightly.
"It happened not that long ago. Just before the meeting in fact. The prophecy stopped having any sort of power and disappeared completely. I still remember it of course, but it's like it's no longer active. No longer in effect."

Still silence, many differing expressions ranged throughout the throne room. Some of disbelief, others of thoughtfulness. However, there was one reaction that stood out among the rest.

The joyous laughter, almost a mad cackle, of Zeus. It was obvious that the god was ecstatic. A wide smile spread across his face. The previously dark eyes lit up, like a sudden change from a thunderstorm to a bright sunny day.

"Great news!" Said the god. "A possible downfall of Olympus has been avoided. Celebration! Celebration! This calls for a celebration!" Chanted the god ecstatically.

A few followed. But some, mainly Poseidon, Athena, Hera and Artemis had a thoughtful expression on their faces. Brows furrowed; Poseidon stroked his beard uneasily. Something wasn't right.

"Father!" Yelled Apollo. A frantic look in his eye. "Another has replaced it!"

The joyous mood immediately shattered, Zeus' face changed from jovial, to confused, confused to despaired, despaired to enraged.

"What!" He yelled, lightning striking around him. "How! Has not enough tragedy befallen us! What more can they take! I better like this Apollo, otherwise I'll send you down to Tartarus myself!" Threatened the god, pointing his weapon at his son.

His view of the slightly cowering sun god was met with a very enraged Poseidon as well as Artemis, Athena and Hermes, who tried to placate their father.

"Do not be foolish Zeus. You know very well that Apollo has no control over the prophecies he spouts." Said Poseidon, gripping his trident. His eyes intense and face set in a frown.

"Father please. Apollo is not to blame for whatever the prophecy entails. Let us hear him out first." Pleaded Athena. Trying to calm her father before things could get out of hand.

Artemis and Hermes didn't say anything, but their standing was clear. Just as Zeus was about to speak, a hand found itself on his shoulder. He looked to the side and saw that it was Hera who held his shoulder firmly. The stern glare his wife was giving him made him reconsider his earlier train of thought. He admitted that he acted rashly. Even for him.

He huffed, leaned back in his throne and sighed.
"Very well. I will not send Apollo down to Tartarus. No matter what the prophecy." He conceded. His grip on the master bolt slackening.

Satisfied. Those who defended Apollo went back to their respective thrones. The sun god nodded, grateful for the assistance he received. Athena nodded back with a smile. So did Poseidon, raising his hand as if to say: 'no problem'. Artemis just huffed and crossed her arms.

"Tell us brother." Encouraged Athena.

The god of Prophecies relaxed slightly. He cleared his throat and prepared to recite the prophecy, he looked at Artemis' direction for a second eyes filled with worry before turning his gaze away, his head shaking slightly. It confused her slightly, not liking the action being pointed at her when another great Prophecy was about to be given.

"Heroes of all eras head his call."

"Unless forgiveness is earned, The Moon shall Fall."

"The Earth's shadow unbound and mad."

"The fall of Olympus is already had."

"Yet when her child's time is nigh."

"The primordial mother shall answer its cry"

"By innocence grace."

"Olympus shall be spared in a kind Embrace."

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Authors notes.

I know that it's a pretty beefy chapter, but that's what happens when you try to condense an entire book into one chapter as well as trying to add some original ideas. The next chapter will also probably a bit long but other than that they should shorten after.

I do apologise if it took a bit of time, but I wanted to pick up the book series for direct reference as well as simply not being in the mood, or correct mindset to write.

Anyway. Hope you enjoyed. Review if you want. If not, don't. And stay safe.