Disclaimer: I don't own Percy Jackson or the ATLA universe because I'm a broke-ass college student. Sue me you won't get anything.
Previously:
"Are you saying no?" Azula asked with a pointed eyebrow raise.
"Of course not my lady," he replies teasingly as he crunches on a piece of bacon.
"You may be regretting agreeing to it in the long run. In case you didn't notice, I can be rather demanding Perseus," she warns him playfully.
Percy leans back in his chair, meeting her gaze, "I think I can handle you."
Azula once again raises her eyebrow at this, "That sounds like a challenge," she said as her lips curled into a smile, "What makes you think you can handle me?"
Percy answered with his own smile, "Demigod."
A smile crosses Azula's face before she stands and holds her hand out to him. Percy stood and looked at her questioningly as he took it.
Azula let out a predatory smile, "Let's test that," she said as she pulled him back over to the bed.
( - )
Percy stood at the prow of the ship, taking in the air as the Fire Nation cruiser cut through the water on the way back home. He felt amazing, being at sea always brought a sense of joy and calm that nowhere else on the planet seemed to. He closed his eyes as the wind ruffled his hair and clothing. They were moving at 35 knots, not bad for a military ship even if the ones on his homeworld would put it to shame. He smiled as he felt Zuko approaching him.
He remained silent as Zuko came and stood at his side for a minute as they stood in companionable silence before speaking, "You work fast."
Percy smirked, "I try sometimes."
Zuko glanced sideways at his friend who seemed so relaxed and carefree at the moment, he wasn't sure he'd ever seen Percy so calm before. Usually, he was always twitching or doing something, this controlled energy was unusual, to say the least.
"That was some announcement," Zuko said dryly with sarcasm clear in his tone.
"You liked that huh?" Percy chuckled.
"Nothing quite like Azula demanding everyone's presence before walking up, kissing you, and telling everyone that you're together and to deal with it."
"To be fair, it is Azula, she doesn't do anything halfway," Percy said with a laugh.
"No she doesn't."
( - )
Moonlight trickled through the cabin window onto two people in bed. One of them was deep in slumber while the other was awake. Azula listened to the steady rhythm of Percy's heartbeat as his chest rose and fell. She gazed intently at his sleeping form as she brushed a bang off his forehead before tracing a finger down his jawline. Now that she had him, it was hard to keep her hands off him, he had the looks of a god after all.
They'd decided not to tell anybody else about his true origins yet. Percy was going to tell Piandao what he'd learned in the library when he got home, but not Ty Lee and Zuko, not yet at least. Selfishly, Azula liked being the only one who knew his secrets. She felt special and important to know that it was just her who knew just what her boyfriend was and where he came from.
However, they had chosen to tell their friends about their new relationship. It would have been too much effort and guilt to lie to them or attempt to hide it. From the rest of the Fire Nation though? Azula knew they needed to hide their feelings. Ozai would be furious and that wasn't even getting into the political implications with Raijin. She would walk the unspoken line in the sand and manipulate whoever she needed to so that she could have Percy. She wasn't too worried though, she was a great actor and Percy was her own personal bodyguard.
He'd be around her all the time, not to mention with the addition of the Dai Li she'd have even more eyes and ears around. She had only brought a dozen aboard the trip back home, the rest would be needed in controlling Ba Sing Se. But having her own legion of bodyguards was definitely appealing, for the moment she had them blocking off the entire corridor where her and Percy's rooms were at. Nobody would be getting by them and finding out about how their sleeping arrangements were slightly different.
She sighed as she curled into Percy's side. He was a lot of trouble to go for but he was worth it.
( - )
The group had spent almost the entirety of the last few days together. Messing around aboard the ship, playing different games, getting food, or just talking. The chemistry between the group had been great and Percy was happy to see Zuko fit right in like he hadn't missed a beat. It was only on the last day before they got back home that an uneasy mood seemed to descend on the group.
Zuko had been agitated and despite Percy's best efforts, he couldn't avail his fears. Zuko was about to see his father for the first time in four years. The last time he'd seen the man, he'd been scarred for life and exiled. Percy could understand his fear. Azula had been extra touchy, definitely something he wasn't complaining about, but he knew she was wrestling with the fact that tomorrow she wouldn't be able to do so openly for a long time. For Percy, he missed his father. Unlike Azula and Zuko, Piandao was a good man and a better dad. He hadn't visited him in a very long time now, perhaps Azula would come along as well? However he was a bit nervous about what his father would say to him, he had just helped kill the Avatar and conquer Ba Sing Se after all. His father had never directly stated it, but Percy got the unspoken feeling that he didn't agree with the Fire Nation's conquest of the world.
( - )
Zuko stood alone, peering at the moon. He couldn't sleep. Not now, not when in just a few hours he would be back home and have to see his father again.
"Aren't you cold?" a soft voice called out.
Zuko glanced as Mai walked up to him with a smile on her face, "I've got a lot on my mind. It's been over four years since I've been home. I wonder what's changed, I wonder how I've changed," he said solemnly.
Mai yawned into her hand, "I just asked if you were cold, not your whole life story," she teased as she placed her arms around his neck as Zuko stared at the moon again.
"Stop worrying," she ordered as she pulled him in for a kiss. After a short period, she pulled back, "I don't know about you but I'm tired. There's room in my bed when you get done staring at the sky," she said with a wink before walking away. She hid a smile as she heard Zuko's footsteps following her, it seemed Azula wasn't the only one who could bend a man around her finger.
( - )
Percy didn't know what he had been expecting when their ship pulled into the capital port, but the massive crowd flocked outside wasn't it. A path had been cleared from their docking spot to the royal palace and Percy couldn't help but be reminded of the parades on tv as a kid. People flocked around the street as floats made their way through except now these people were waiting to see him and his friends.
Zuko stood beside him and Percy could see beads of sweat on his forehead. He had both his swords strapped to his back and was garbed in a vibrant red cloak with a gold outline. A bold statement but Azula had been adamant that Zuko looked the part of a prince returning home. Percy would've preferred his armor but since it had been crushed during the battle of Ba Sing Se, he had to make do. He had refused to wear anything red and eventually settled on a black vest with red buttons. It showed off his muscular frame and powerful arms, not to mention with Riptide strapped to his back he looked quite intimidating. Azula, Ty Lee, and Mai were all dressed for show as well, their beauty only accented by their choice of clothes.
Percy reached over to give Zuko's shoulder a comforting squeeze as the ramp touched down and the group began their descent down. The Dai Li flanked them but not even a pair of earmuffs could have drowned out the thunderous noise. The royal siblings had returned home after capturing Ba Sing Se and the people clamored for a view of them as royal guards kept them from being swarmed like celebrities. People tossed flowers and all sorts of gifts at the group as they made their way up to the palace. Percy wasn't sure who or how it started, but a chant rose from the crowd, "Spirit slayers! Spirit slayers!"
It took Percy a second to place that they were cheering the group for killing the Avatar, the spirit bridge, and when he did he felt sick. For the first time, he felt regret for conquering Ba Sing Se.
( - )
"Your son has returned home my liege," Fat informed the man sitting cross-legged drinking his tea.
"Unharmed and victorious I presume?" Piandao asked.
"The village locals are singing his praise for conquering Ba Sing Se."
Piandao hummed as he thought to himself. He was proud of his son, of that there was no doubt. The young boy that Iroh had brought to him had been a bundle of energy and joy in his life as he watched him grow. He had molded him, trained him to the best of his abilities. His son had raw power only spoken about in legendary figures, yet his heart remained open to all. He knew Percy would accomplish great things, he just didn't know they'd be for the Fire Nation. Perhaps he should've influenced the boy more, tried to persuade him to the White Lotus. Although Piandao didn't like the idea then, and he still didn't now. Everyone should be able to make their own decisions without outside influence, even if it met meeting on opposing sides. He sighed deeply before speaking, "And the rumors of Iroh's capture?"
"True it would seem. He is under intense scrutiny, any messages sent would be read aloud first and the messenger cast under suspicion. I would advise not sending any letters yet," Fat informed Piandao.
Piandao nodded, "I trust we still have contacts that could secure us a secret meeting with the old general though no?"
"Yes my liege."
"Good. I need to have a talk with my old friend about what happened in Ba Sing Se and our plans moving forward."
( - )
The walk up to the palace went quickly and they had no problems with the guards keeping the crowds out of the path. So naturally, it went wrong once they reached the steps of the palace.
Ozai didn't address anyone out of the group besides Azula who was standing at Ozai's side as he gave a speech to the crowd. Zuko had tensed but Ozai had yet to speak with him. No, the problem came from Raijin.
Percy, Zuko, Ty Lee, Mai, and the Dai Li stood about 10 yards behind the podium Ozai and Azula were at to address the crowd gathered at the palace steps. Percy noted Raijn standing just off to the side with some of the royal guards but didn't put much thought into his presence there.
It was only when Ozai finished his speech and Raijin approached the podium that warning bells went off in his head. However, he was taken aback as he watched the noble smile broadly at Ozai before turning to Azula. Then he was kissing her in front of the entire crowd who began cheering.
Percy didn't even realize he was moving until he felt Zuko wrapped around his left arm, Ty Lee tugging on his right, and even Mai was clinging at his waist. The only thought running through Percy's mind was to fuck Raijin up. He pulled his friends forwards as they tried to hold him back as his green eyes locked on Raijin's figure still touching his girlfriend. He was six yards away from the podium before Ty Lee became desperate and jabbed her fingers into his right leg. Percy sagged as his right leg gave out before she pinched the nape near the bottom of his neck and his entire body slumped. Quickly, the trio dragged Percy backward and off the stage as thunder boomed overhead.
"Ty Lee get him out of here," Zuko ordered as he gazed at the limp form of his best friend who's green eyes glared at him with murderous intent.
"What about everyone else?" Ty Lee asked in a worried voice even as she slung Percy over her shoulders.
"I'll tell them he got sick and you went with him. Nobody is gonna notice right now with everything going on. I'll cover for you guys, now go!" he ordered firmly.
Ty Lee nodded before she began making her way away from the crowds and guards into the palace with the enraged demigod slung over her shoulders.
( - )
Azula was caught completely by surprise when Raijin kissed her. It definitely wasn't mutual, the piece of shit had ambushed her in front of the entire crowd and her father. His breath was rank–like demons had been nesting on his tongue. It was utterly revolting like she was kissing a filthy worm. When he finally stopped Azula was pretty sure nothing could make the moment any worse. At least until Raijin stepped up to the podium and his ugly mug announced their betrothal. Even though her father had told her they wouldn't announce it until her 18th birthday. Agni her 17th birthday wasn't for another fucking week.
The sheep in the crowd lapped it all up like an incredible accomplishment. Rage burned through her entire body. White-hot anger that screamed at her to burn everyone to ash. She couldn't believe it, that the bastard had not only dared to touch her but to kiss her, soiling her lips. That she, the crown jewel of the Fire Nation, had been humiliated in front of the entire city, but also Percy. Her anger turned to worry as felt like she was going to hurl. Percy had seen that, what had he thought? She looked around for him, except he was gone. So was Ty Lee too.
"Burn them all Azula, show them the true power of the princess of the Fire Nation. Burn them all and rise from their ashes like a phoenix."
She tried to ignore the voice inside her head as she fought the urge to blast Raijin with lightning in front of the crowd.
( - )
Ozai stepped back up and said a few words after Raijin's announcement before dismissing the crowd. After that, he turned and walked up to Azula's still form before placing a hand on her shoulder and speaking to her, "I am very proud of you Azula. You have proved the might of the Fire Nation and struck a crucial blow in our favor. You even brought your wayward brother back home. I am most pleased with you daughter. I will speak with you later in the throne room."
And then he was gone, walking towards the palace surrounded by his elite guard. Words Azula had trained and worked towards her whole life, and yet now they seemed empty. Hollow and useless. She felt like she was a piece of glass and if somebody hit her she would shatter.
She moved towards Zuko and Mai, not noticing that Raijin was following her path. Mai stepped forward and wrapped her in a hug as Zuko stepped in front of her, locking eyes with Raijin.
( - )
Raijin watched Azula intently as Ozai finished his speech. His intended seemed shocked and was staring at the ground. She had known this was to happen for nearly a year now, he thought she would've gotten comfortable with it by then. No matter. He would talk with her afterward.
Ozai finished and Raijin paused as the Fire Lord shared words with his daughter before stepping away. He began making his way towards her even as she walked into the embrace of one of the noble girls, Mai. Suddenly Zuko stepped in front of his intended, blocking his vision as he locked eyes with the prince.
What he saw surprised him. Raijin had been expecting the weak and easily cowed prince from his youth. However, the prince's golden gaze met Raijin's bronze one and bore into him. Years spent in exile had hardened him and the threatening gaze with the determination to carry it shone through. Even so, Raijin was not impressed, but he wasn't going to challenge the crown prince here and now. Later he would deal with the upstart. And that ridiculous waterbender Perseus. Both would feel the power and anger of Raijin, favored of Agni.
( - )
By the time Azula had finished talking with Mai, she felt better. Nowhere near good, but enough where she didn't feel like she was going to break down and cry or murder somebody to release her anger. She needed to see Percy. Needed to talk with him, feel him, let him know what was going on inside her head.
She made her way down the palace corridors towards Percy's room. She turned the corner to see Ty Lee standing outside Percy's door, blocking anyway from entering. Ty Lee shot a forced smile at her friend as she made her way towards her. Azula came to a stop, gazing at Ty Lee who had seemingly appointed herself as Percy's bodyguard. Her normal sparkling gray eyes were solid like stone.
"I need to see Percy," she addressed her friend.
Ty Lee nodded, "You do, but not right now."
"Ty Lee! I need to see him! Don't you understand—"
"—I do understand Azula. But if you go in there right now, you two will fight. He's still enraged that I chi blocked him so he didn't attack Raijin. Like I said, not a good time."
Azula stared at her friend, surprised to see such steel in her refusal. She flinched as a loud bang sounded out from the doorway 10ft behind Ty Lee who didn't move. Obviously, whatever Percy was doing there he must have been at it a while if Ty Lee was used to it.
"Azula, you're my best friend. And Percy's my brother. I know the two of you better than almost everyone. I helped guide you two together when you guys were too stubborn to admit the feelings you guys both had. Percy will calm down, just give him a minute," Ty Lee paused as she gazed at the expression on her friend, "Look Azula I know you want to talk with him. Just wait a little bit okay? You're gonna have to trust me on this."
Azula took a long breath before she opened her mouth to respond to her friend but was cut off when two guards turned the corner and addressed her, "Princess Azula, your father is requesting to meet with you."
Azula pinched the bridge of her nose and dismissed the guards with a wave. She let out a deep breath before her shoulders slumped. She didn't look like the intense princess of the Fire Nation, more like the 16-year-old girl who was trying to balance too many things at once. She looked into the eyes of her best friend and decided to listen, to trust her. She turned to begin making her way towards the throne room as the royal facade fell back into place. Shoulders back, chin up and walking confidently as her face betrayed no expression. She reached the end of the corridor before looking back over her shoulder at Ty Lee, "Just… make sure he's okay alright?"
"I will Azula," her friend promised as she nodded before beginning the trek through the palace to the throne room.
( - )
She walked down the last corridor towards her father's throne room. She nodded at the guards outside before taking a small breath as she composed herself. She pushed open the ornate doors and strode inside. She moved into the depths of the room before dropping to a knee in front of her father's throne, waiting to be addressed first as was the custom.
"My cherished daughter, it pleases me to see you again."
"Likewise father," Azula responded automatically.
Her father was silent for a moment as he regarded her, "You have questions."
"Yes father."
"Speak freely daughter, you have earned my favoritism with the capture of Ba Sing Se, what bothers you."
Her father spoke of talking freely but Azula knew better than anyone what a trap that could be so she turned over her words carefully, "Father… you said that we would not announce my betrothal until my 18th birthday and I officially became a woman. My 17th is just next week, what has changed?"
Ozai stroked his goatee as he regarded his daughter, "Things have changed while you have been away daughter. Raijin has proven to be an acceptable replacement for your brother during your travels. I had no knowledge that your brother had rejoined our glorious family so I gave my word to Raijin that he could announce your betrothal when you arrived home."
"What about your word to me!?" Azula screamed inside her head internally as her father continued on.
"Obviously with your brother coming home, he will retake his place as my heir. This… complicates things as you know. However, an alliance with perhaps the strongest noble family and Raijin still benefits the royal family. You have my word though daughter, you will not be wed until you have become a woman and are ready. The Fire Nation is bolstered even more by your victory in Ba Sing Se, only the remaining Earth Kingdom forces and Northern Water Tribe stand in our way of my illustrious vision."
"Benefits the royal family? No father, it only benefits you," Azula thought to herself as she composed herself before speaking, "I understand father, thank you for sharing your insight with me."
Ozai watched his daughter, but sensed nothing beyond sincerity in her words and smiled, "Now daughter, please regale me with your capture of Ba Sing Se."
Azula nodded before she launched into a retelling of their time away from home. However, her version of events left out some details like Percy leaving the group to go to the library, his earthquake in the catacombs, and his bloodbending ability. Those were her secrets to keep, if her father found out Percy's true power, he would most likely have him killed.
She continued her story before pausing, "Father I don't know whether or not any attack can come with the Avatar dead, but the Earth King spoke of an eclipse where we would be helpless and his forces would storm our capital."
Ozai's eyes widened at the information, "And when will this eclipse occur?"
Azula shrugged, "I don't know for certain, but sometime before the end of summer. I'm sure our scientists can figure it out."
Ozai nodded in agreement, "I will have them find out immediately, we cannot be too cautious with such an event. You've exceeded my expectations daughter, please continue," he said with a wave of his hand.
Azula continued her story and when she got to the battle beneath Ba Sing Se, she omitted some parts and changed others entirely. She made no mention of Percy's earthquake tearing down the catacomb and the battle with Aang went a bit differently, "The Avatar blasted me backward, into a stone pillar. I rose and turned to see Percy trying to immobilize the Avatar in midair. He turned the Avatar's own water back on him, circling it into a watery cyclone, trying to contain him. The Avatar fought against it and Percy struggled to keep him contained. Suddenly, lightning flashed and the Avatar was blasted out of the sky. It was Zuko, blasting him before he could escape Percy's watery prison."
"Zuko?" her father questioned in surprise.
She nodded, "I was surprised as well father, but it was a blessing from Agni upon us. My arm was dislocated and I couldn't perform the kata. Percy was struggling to contain the Avatar's power, and Zuko was in the right place at the right time," she paused to make sure she had her father's attention, "The Avatar's power was astounding. He barely seemed affected by our strongest attacks, I can see why Sozin feared him so much."
"Yes, Sozin knew better than any just how dangerous the Avatar could be. But even the Avatar cannot survive the touch of Agni's wrath himself. The fact the Avatar's allies got away with his body is meaningless, they carry a corpse. What interests me is Perseus, you say he actually managed to contain the Avatar?"
"I wouldn't say contain, more… slowed down for a moment?"
Ozai leaned forward, "Impressive. The Avatar is an unstoppable force, it's why Sozin exterminated the entire Air Nomad population, to prevent such power from opposing his goals. To even slow it down, much less stop it, is a testament to his strength. And he is strong no?"
"Yes father, he is undoubtedly one of the strongest benders I've ever met."
Ozai smiled at his daughter's words, "And if he was surrounded by a large body of water what do you think he could do?"
"Well I can't say for certain since usually every fight we've been in together there hasn't been a large quantity readily available for him to use, but if he was surrounded by his element, he could probably wipe a town off the face of the earth."
"And you say he turned the Avatar's own water on him?"
"Yes, why do you ask father?"
"I am simply curious to know of his strength. I believe he may be the key to conquering the Northern Water Tribe daughter. There will be no massive fleet needed with the aid of him. And his fight against the Avatar could be very useful in our propaganda. The Fire Nation's very own waterbender turning the power of the Avatar against him. What better way to prove our influence makes the world better? We have successfully trained and used a half-blood waterbender to great success. None of the other nations would dare to even think using a firebender against us, but we recognize strength when it is shown," Ozai revealed to his daughter gleefully as a wicked smile snaked across his face, "What are your opinions of this daughter?"
Azula internally reeled from the revelation, she knew her father had a reason for allowing Percy to be her personal bodyguard, she just didn't know that he planned on using her boyfriend as a weapon of mass destruction. She thought quickly before answering, "I can see the appeal, but I would be hesitant to fully commit to this plan," she said slowly.
"And why is that?" Ozai asked with a raised brow.
"Well before our trip outside the Fire Nation, Percy didn't have much real combat experience. He has not practiced large-scale attacks, focusing more on single fighting as my bodyguard. And I believe he would be… adverse to wiping out an entire city like the Northern Water Tribe."
"So you think he needs proper… motivation?"
"Along the lines of that, yes?"
"What would you suggest?"
Azula hid a smile as Ozai played into her hand, "Well… I think we need to tie him more tightly to the Fire Nation. Maybe promote him to general? Favor Piandao? I'm not sure what would exactly make him tick and I'd rather not seduce him," she said with a disgusted expression.
"You will do whatever the Fire Nation requires."
"But father–" she began protesting.
"—Azula you will listen to me. Perseus is key to my plans to conquer the entire world for the Fire Nation. You will do as I command."
"What about Raijin father? Surely you cannot expect me to pursue such methods with my betrothed around."
Ozai frowned as he stroked his goatee as he hummed thoughtfully, "You are correct. Raijin will become a problem, although, with the return of your brother, his value has greatly diminished," he pondered slowly before continuing, "I will try alternative methods. A promotion for Persues and more favor in Piandao's direction. However, if this fails I will expect you to fulfill your duty to this nation. Worry not, I will deal with Raijin should we reach that."
"Yes father."
( - )
Percy remained on a knee with his head bowed in front of the wall of flames for a minute before the Fire Lord spoke, "Rise Perseus."
Percy rose to his feet, standing tall and firm with his shoulders back and hands clasped behind him. Once again, he couldn't see the Fire Lord past the wall of flames but he could feel his eyes on him.
"I have spoken with my daughter, she spoke highly of you throughout your journey and of your feats underneath Ba Sing Se."
"Thank you, your majesty."
"She said that you nearly beat the Avatar, a remarkable display of power."
"With all due respect my lord, I believe she may have exaggerated such accounts. I was barely able to keep him contained at all within a watery cyclone."
"Of course, I misspoke, she did tell me of that," Ozai remarked casually.
Percy gripped his hands together tightly, there was not a chance that he'd misspoken, he was simply testing their story to see if everything lined up. The Fire Lord was clever, of that there was no doubt. Azula hadn't drilled everyone on the story she would tell the Fire Lord on the ship for nothing, she knew that Ozai would test them. He remained silent as he waited on Ozai to speak again.
"I do wonder how you were able to turn the Avatar's water against him though," Ozai questioned aloud.
"It was simple, your majesty. The Avatar is still young, only 16, he has much to learn about water. He treated it like a tool, something to throw at his enemies. But water is much more than that, it is life, the soothing touch that makes plants grow and nourishes our bodies. But to have complete power over your element you must master it, the boy did not have such a level of control."
"Are you saying that water holds more power than firebending young one?"
Percy clenched his hands behind his back, "Of course not my lord, power such as yours would surely dwarf my own. However, I would respectfully argue that those not at your level could easily fall to waterbending." He of course, internally disagreed. He was pretty sure he could take Ozai right now. Like 85% certain. But telling the Fire Lord that his element wasn't the strongest was not the best idea and Percy could use flattery to get the man off his back. He waited as the Fire Lord sat quietly for a minute before speaking again.
"I have concluded that a position such as a mere bodyguard to my daughter is no longer worthy of your strength. I would like to promote you to the commander of the entirety of the royal guard here within the palace."
"My lord?" Percy asked in confusion.
"You have protected my daughter faithfully for years. Ba Sing Se would not have fallen without your aid. Your loyalty has been admirable, and it is time you were rewarded for your efforts. You will be in charge of the guards within the palace, their rotations, shifts, and above else, the protection of Azula and Zuko. I believe the return of both my children will bring threats to our door and you have proven yourself capable of keeping Azula safe."
"I would be honored, my lord."
"Congratulations Commander Perseus, I look forward to working with you more closely as we bring this war to an end."
Ozai smiled as the young man walked out of his throne room, this was only the beginning of his machinations. He would have the man as his weapon and if it cost him his daughter, then so be it. Everyone was expendable when it came to his power.
( - )
Zuko dropped to both his knees, prostrating himself before the wall of flame his father sat behind as he waited for him to speak.
"You have been away for a long time. I see the weight of your travels has changed you. You have redeemed yourself, my son."
Zuko looked upwards as his father strode through the flames to stand in front of him, regarding him intently.
"Welcome home my son."
"It is good to be home father," he replied as he stood to his feet as well in front of his father, choking back a sigh of relief.
Ozai regarded him a moment longer before he began pacing around Zuko in a circle, "I am proud of you Zuko. I am proud because you and your sister conquered Ba Sing Se. I am proud because when your loyalty was tested by your treacherous uncle, you did the right thing and captured the traitor. And I am proudest of all, of your most legendary accomplishments, you slayed the Avatar."
"How did you—"
"Azula told me everything. She said that she was amazed and impressed with your power and ferocity. At the moment when the Avatar was about to escape your friend's watery entrapment, you acted and struck down the biggest threat to the Fire Nation. I knew you would be powerful, you are much like me my son, a late bloomer it seems. But no matter, you are home, and I am most pleased with you."
"Thank you father."
"I don't suppose you would be opposed to showing your father a demonstration of your lightning?"
If it wasn't for Azula grilling him onboard on what to say, Zuko would have probably been busted on the spot. "Of course not father, although I would rather show you during an Agni Kai. I'm sure some doubt my strength since I have not been home and I do not wish to reveal my abilities yet."
Ozai smiled at his son, "It seems you are becoming more adept in politics my son. Never reveal one's true strength, always have a plan, an option, a power, that they know not. And when they think they have you figured out, that is when we strike. So fast and strong that they will never have a chance to live and learn that the royal family always carries secrets."
( - )
Percy made his way towards Azula's room. He was careful and cautious, now that his temper had calmed he realized how bad things would have gone if it wasn't for Zuko and Ty Lee. He'd have to properly thank them later, but first, he needed to see Azula. To make sure she was okay.
He paused in front of the doorway for a long moment, before knocking gently. It was late, but hopefully, Azula was still up. He was surprised when the door opened almost immediately and he was yanked inside.
Azula looked stunning, her hair was down and she was obviously in her sleeping attire. A long red robe covered her, not unlike the one she'd worn during their second dinner at Ba Sing Se.
"Azula—" he started.
Before he was interrupted as she kissed him hard. This wasn't slow and loving like their first kiss, it was fast and passionate. She wanted him.
He gasped for breath as he finally came up for air from Azula's hunger, "Azula wait, I want to talk to you—"
"We'll talk later okay? But right now I need you. I had that filthy fucking animal kiss me and I hated it. I just want to feel you, here and with me okay?" Azula asked and Percy was surprised to see a vulnerability in her golden eyes. She was right, they would talk later, right now Azula needed reassurance. That he was with her and wasn't ever leaving her side. Percy made sure to lock her door before kissing her as he scooped her up in his arms and deposited her on her bed.
( - )
Despite the time, Zuko made his way through the halls to talk with his sister after speaking with his father for the first time in 5 years.
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Author Note - Alright everyone so this is the end of chapter 17 of Percy Jackson & The Sapphire Flame and I hope y'all enjoyed it. Give it a review or follow if you'd like to stay up to date on this story. A few things I'd like to address as usual
- It's my birthday today. I wanted to give ya chapter 17 early so I grinded on it. I appreciate you all and wanted to show my appreciation for all the support and kind words. I thought what better way than to upload a new chapter for my 19th XD
- I am almost done with my semester, just have finals to go. When summer hits I will be back to full-time work but I should have more time to write and I have been brainstorming a host of ideas. I'm gonna put the basic ideas and summaries for them below. PLEASE let me know what ideas you'd like to see next from me. Just leave a review with your top 2 choices. I will probably make a poll between those two and have you guys vote on it. Right now I am leaning towards Percy/Young Justice.
So I have a lot of ideas for other stories that I would like to start writing so I'm going to list them down below. These will simply be brief summaries of what I'm thinking.
Listed in order of thought I've given to them and interest in writing atm
- Percy & Young Justice → After the war with Gaea, Percy is sent by the Fates themselves into another dimension. Percy soon stumbles into a group of superheroes and before he knows it, he's one of the founding members of the team. Percy finds himself leading mission after mission with his teammates to prevent the ulterior motives of the secret organization known as the Light. Culminating in fighting a mind-controlled Justice League, Percy, and his squad work together to save their mentors. All seems well after that, at least until his superpowered girlfriend is kidnapped by Darkseid. It isn't until he faces the Dark God that he realizes just how badly he needs to unlock his newfound godhood if he ever wants to stand a chance. However, Darkseid doesn't have the patience to wait for the mysterious godling to unlock his power. Perhaps Doomsday will force his hand, and if the monster kills Superman in the process then all the better...
*Percy & Supergirl pairing (from Batman/Superman: Apocalypse)
*I have found a story I have deemed acceptable to build upon as I did with Percy & The Sapphire Flame. It hasn't been updated in nearly 2 years now so I will adapt it and modify things to my liking before getting into my own new creative ideas like the Darkseid & Doomsday arc, as well as a different roster for the Light organization.
- Percy/Invincible → Percy Grayson is the oldest twin, born 12 minutes before his brother Mark. Sons to the most powerful man on the planet, they can't wait for their Viltrumite powers to kick in and follow their father's legacy. Focusing around the brothers adapting to their power while meeting new heroes, protecting the world, and discovering just what their father is really here for. The kick? One brother has heat vision, the other has frost breath. Both powers haven't been possessed by a Viltrumite since emperor Argall himself, as if they didn't have enough to worry about without being descended from the last royal blooded ruler to control Viltrum.
*This isn't so much a crossover as it's putting Percy characters in the Invincible universe and adapting them there. Plus I mean Percy would have the powers of Superman, you know how wild shit will get?
*I will put other characters from the PJO universe into the Invincible universe as heroes with their own set of powers including the love interest for Percy in this, Zoe Nightshade, the daughter of the Immortal and Warwoman
*Percy & Zoe pairing
- Percy/Harry Potter → Percy should've known something was wrong when the Fates themselves show up in the throne room demanding he keeps Kronos scythe as a trophy against Zeus's protests. When Lou Ellen wishes to run some tests on the blade Percy agrees, it's not getting much action hanging on his cabin wall. One minute he's supervising Lou chant over the scythe, the next minute he's been whisked back 30 years in time with Lou. This gains the attention of the Fates and Lou's mom, Hecate. Percy can't help but feel like the Fates set him up on purpose but they promise to return him to his time if he helps another child of prophecy, Harry Potter. After a summer on crash course magic by Hecate, Percy & Lou attend Hogwarts. Percy competes in the Triwizard tournament, looking out for Harry throughout the time. When Voldemort returns, he comes back to Hogwarts as a professor, to help Dumbledore & Harry prepare for what's to come. However, even with the great power of his animagus form, they can't help but retreat as Voldemort takes over Britain and Hogwarts. Now Percy needs to help Dumbledore and Harry finish Voldemort off for good and retake Britain from the Dark Lord's clutches.
*Percy & Lou Ellen pairing
*Percy's animagi form will have a large role to play in this series; I'm talking about stuff like fighting a dragon, a werewolf pack, a giant basilisk, and devouring a fleet of warships. It's gonna be crazy.
- Percy/MCU → Persues is the eldest son of Odin. He was there for Hela's downfall. For the betrayal of his friend Thanos when he attempted to murder him. For the great flood that wiped mortals off the face of the Earth. So when his wife goes missing and Frost Giants attack the brothers' crowning ceremony, he knows something is wrong. A meeting with the Ancient One confirms his suspicions, Thanos is plotting something big. Percy helps Earth repel a Chiturai invasion from his fallen younger brother but Thanos never shows. After Dark Elves kill his mother, he sides with his father against his brothers. Asgard needs to be prepared for what's to come. Let Malekith take the Reality Stone, Thanos will deal with the Dark Elf. Thor disagrees and breaks out Loki to stop him. After his failure, Percy is forced into action to prevent the corruption of the 9 Realms. Loki takes the throne from Odin, but Percy is aware of his treachery, allowing it to pass for now. Nightmares of Asgard alight in flame haunt his vision so together, Perseus and Thor set out to stop Surtr before he can attack. However, Odin's death causes a new threat to arise as his older sister Hela attacks the brothers, scattering them across the planet Sakaar as she marches on the remaining Asgardian gods, slaughtering them. Percy & his brothers evacuate Asgard as they put Ragnarok into motion, taken by surprise when Thanos makes his move. Taking the space stone and killing Loki in one motion as he leaves Perseus and Thor to die.
*As stated, Perseus is a millennia-old god with a mysterious history. Most events that Thor plays a role in Perseus will too.
- Percy/Star Wars → After wandering around Tartarus for what seems like years, Percy has had enough, he throws himself into the void not expecting to come out of it. When he wakes up he's in the room of the Jedi Council, in the body of his younger self. The Jedi take the boy as a gift from the force, but they won't let a 12-year-old be trained by just any Jedi. Enter Mace Windu, the perfect master to help the boy control the obvious darkness lurking within him rather than being controlled by it. When Percy returns from the cave with two purple kyber crystals in hand, the Jedi know they made the right choice in his master. However, the Jedi's rigid stance causes rifts between Percy and other younglings, at least until Anakin Skywalker that is. Their friendship soon grows into a brotherhood that grows into a legend as they shine on the battlefield of the Clone Wars. At least until Percy is sent a padawan, Ashoka Tano. Reluctantly Percy takes the 15-year-old togruta under his wing. However after Ashoka is framed and leaves the Jedi Order, her master follows her with. The force has been calling him about her for a long time now, even as he buried his feelings for her under the pretense of a typical master/padawan bond. Free from the Jedi Code and with Ashoka by his side, how can Percy affect the end of the Clone Wars. Can he save Anakin before it's too late or is he destined to watch another prophecy unfold in front of his eyes?
*Percy & Ashoka pairing
- Percy/Kane Chronicles → The Kane twins first meet the green-eyed teen in the 1st Nome. He's on an ordered vacation, Zia tells them both. So then why is he helping the siblings escape, bond with the gods inside them, and seem excited to fight Set? And why does Zia's stomach seemingly fill with butterflies when Percy shoots a troublemaker grin her way? She doesn't like him, not even a little bit she swears aloud. After watching the Egyptians almost let a giant chaos cobra escape from a magical prison, Percy decides that maybe he should stick around a bit longer. Besides, Zia is hot, especially when she's threatening to burn him with her fire magic.
*Percy & Zia pairing
- Percy/Jason Bourne → Percy wakes up on a boat that picked him up from the sea with one small problem, he can't even remember his name. After visiting a secret bank account, he finds money, fake Ids, and a gun. Just what the hell is going on? What is Operation Trident and who is he exactly? Is he a CIA assassin or is he a patriot forced into a very bad situation? Meanwhile, the CIA scrambles to cover up the problems their rogue agent is causing. It's only when Annabeth Chase is assigned to track down Percy Jackson that she realizes just how much her mother (CIA Director - Athena) has been hiding from her.
*This would have lots of PJO characters in it as it's a mortal au. Probably 20+ godly or demigod figures will be featured throughout in a variety of different roles
*Percy & Calypso pairing (before she's murdered)
*Percy & Annabeth pairing
- Percy/Marvel → After Annabeth's death, Percy just wants out. Out of the godly world and the ridiculous quest and never-ending monsters. Hasn't he lost enough? Reluctantly the gods grant his wish, removing the scent from him. He's happy for the first few months, but pretty soon he gets bored, at least until Shield comes knocking with a job offer that is. He didn't plan on doing covert ops in countries halfway across the world, but he can't say he doesn't enjoy it. At least until the agents he's working with suddenly try to kill him that is. However, before he can investigate it he's dragged into the Battle of New York. After helping Cap and Natasha in fighting Hydra, he's dragged into cleanup duty as they retrieve Loki's scepter. Until Tony creates a murder bot and Percy finds himself getting tugged in the direction of the redhead Wanda Maximoff when she joins the team. Despite swearing to himself he wouldn't love again, he finds himself more and more at Avengers HQ with the mystical witch. When Tony tries to lock her inside HQ, Percy's there to bust her out, and then give Tony a piece of his mind at the airport too. Getting out of the raft was easy, who puts a demigod in the middle of his home turf? Living quietly with Wanda is peaceful, at least until they are attacked by aliens and Percy watches Wanda dissolve to dust in his arms. So when Cap comes to him with a chance to bring her back he takes it.
*Percy & Scarlet Witch
- Percy/Hunger Games → Percy's dad died when he was a kid. He's been fending for his mother and brother his whole life. He trains relentlessly under Finnick so he can enter the Hunger Games, so he can finally get his mom and brother some actual comfort in life. He is selected for the 73rd Hunger Games and he wins. When the 74th Hunger Games are about to start, he's being paraded around the Capitol, the defending champ from last year. It's there that he meets Katniss Everdeen. He didn't know what to expect from the girl from District 12 but it sure wasn't the stunning badass in front of him. After her victory, Percy can't help but pursue the mysterious archer. They begin a relationship and keep it secret until they are both dragged back into the Quarter Quell. Percy is captured by the Capitol while District 13 rescues Katniss. Separated from his lover, Percy is tortured until he can barely remember the name Katniss without thinking about pain. Is there any chance the old Percy is still in there?
*Percy & Katniss pairing
- Anyways what are your thoughts on this chapter? Are we all on board the kill Raijin train now or whatttt
- Doing each separate meeting with Ozai was fun. Finally, get some more of the big baddie himself and the way he talks to each character and what he wants from them.
- Also I know it's a bit shorter than the avg chp length but it hasn't even been a week since I last updated so I think you'll be fine. Also the next chapter will be larger with focus being around Azula's birthday.
- As usual, I want to say thank you for the support y'all give. If you have any questions just send me a PM.
- Finally, please leave a review, guys! A follow or favorite would mean a lot for me too. I'm always open to advice on being a better writer and I'm looking forward to what new stories are to come.
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