Chapter 37
The exhausted feeling from the battle had not left Percy in the days that followed. On the first day they buried the fallen. Sigils were held the length of New Rome, and words were said about every fallen comrade. The second day brought rewards, and a celebration of victory. It wasn't as rowdy as past celebrations had been. Everyone had lost someone in the battle, and the mood was much more somber than when they had defeated the Trojan Sea Monster, or prevented war on Olympus.
To start off the rewards Jason and Nico had both been given a phalere for their efforts in defeating Kampe, and every legionnaire that participated in the battle were presented with honors ribbons for their part in the battle. It had been a long and tedious process, but Percy had been sure to personally hand out every single ribbon, and pin it to each respective member's armor of every cohort. He wanted his people to know that he appreciated their service, and told every single man and woman that fought the truth that victory would've been impossible without them.
Before the award ceremonies had begun Cassie had promptly stepped down from the position of Praetor. She sighted mental health reasons, and claimed that she felt others could do the job better. She admitted to not being the greatest warrior, and certainly not having the military mind to lead the legion into battle. She refused to name a successor she would like the legion to support, and claimed that her door would be open to any that would seek her advice while she was in retirement.
In truth Percy could not fault the girl. She had summoned him to her quarters late the day after the battle, and had offered her apologies for failing him and Rome in its hour of need, and told him that she was going to step down. They had talked late into the night about what had been ailing her, and that she felt she just could not match the power of those in the Guard, nor could she claim to have the Military mind to command the troops. She was a peacetime leader, and they both knew it.
This is what led Percy to the senate chambers on the third day after the battle. The people of New Rome, and the majority of the cohorts were waiting outside the halls to hail a new Praetor, and if rumor had it elevate the son of Neptune to Consul.
Percy sat alone at the front of the old court room, and watched as Octavian, along with a group of his stooges attempted to spearhead him into the other open position of leadership, "I have been a loyal Roman for over seven years of service. My family history is wrought with leadership and-"
"The augur is sacrosanct Octavian. I would think your ascension to the position of Praetor would interfere with your abilities to remain neutral in the position of Augur." Michael Kahale said with his arms crossed against his toga looking slightly irritated.
Octavian turned red, but immediately rebutted, "It is not historically unprecedented for an Augur to rise to the position of Praetor."
"It would be in times of war." Percy said pointedly, "I have a lot of respect for your position Octavian, but I would hate to see it lose a single bit of your attention in a time where the future could be the difference between victory and defeat."
"Surely you will not deny me the right to at least see the senate put it to a vote Praetor Jackson?" Octavian asked stubbornly.
"Of course not Augur. When we have our nominated candidates the vote will be conducted with your name on the ballot." Percy said diplomatically, but the eye roll that came from most of the Guard showed Percy that the likelihood of this idiot being elected to Praetor was pretty slim.
Before Percy could ask for the next candidate to be announced Jason stood in the front with his hands behind his back waiting to be called. Percy looked at his cousin warily as he refused to meet his eyes. Taking a deep breath Percy addressed the son of Jupiter, "Yes Centurion Grace, you wish to nominate a candidate?"
The move surprised Percy, because he was certain the boy would be nominated if he waited. If Jason nominated someone however he would be unlikely to win the election, but Jason had a different answer, "No sir. I merely wish to inquire about your plans on answering the cry that took up the field after the battle. Everyone in this room was there when the cohorts demanded your appointment to consul of Rome. I think it would be prudent to resolve this issue to determine if two Praetors need to be elected or not."
The son of the sea stirred uncomfortably as all eyes fell upon him, "I was humbled after the battle that my brothers and sisters in arms had started that chant Centurion Grace, but I do not believe now is an appropriate time to elect such an official. The Great Prophecy is around the corner, and the war with the Titans seems to be coming to an imminent climatic point. Having three leaders at a time like this seems to be-"
"Forgive my interruption Praetor, but having three leaders in a time like this seems vastly important." Michael Kahale interjected.
Percy stared at the older demigod he had long respected with a questioning look clearly displayed on his face. The Primus Pilus broke character for a brief moment flashing him a grin when Dylan stood and asked, "Primus Pilus I am afraid I don't understand your position on this matter. Why would three leaders be important in war time?"
Michael's straight face returned, and he turned his back on Percy addressing the senate, "Three is a sacred number to our people, and many other cultures. There is a certain power to it. Also Praetor Jackson has proved to be something of a hot commodity on Olympus. He has been summoned away to answer the call to Olympus on three separate occasions now, and the leadership of Rome must be able to cope without his presence. With all he has done for our people I concur with Centurion Grace. A vote must be held."
No one vetoed the senior officers' words. No one spoke at all. Everyone just stared at their only standing Praetor. Percy's eyes darted from each of the Praetorian Guard, and attempted to get an understanding for what was happening, but each provided a blank mask. Finally sighing, and accepting his fate he called out, "Jacob."
A younger man in the back stood up, and came running down the middle of the Senate Hall at Percy's beckoning. The legions eagle bearer stood at attention in front of the Praetor, and stared straight ahead awaiting instruction. Thinking for a long moment the son of Neptune sighed before saying, "Senatus, I first put the vote to you. My peers. My friends. My family. If you believe I am worthy of a title that has not been bestowed to a Roman in over six hundred years then cast your votes. If we pass with an overwhelming majority then we will put the vote to the people."
Percy shook his head, "A show of hands. To the left is not in favor, and to the right is in favor."
Jacob nodded in understanding as he turned to face the senate, "Senatus." The entire room stood to their feet and held two fists together. Some like Ocativan looked unhappy to be in the position, but no one protested, "Votume Projice."
As soon as the hands shot out Percy knew it was done. It was an overwhelming majority. There were only three who had voted against him, and surprisingly Octavian wasn't one of them. He half wondered if the boy knew he had a better chance at being elected with two spots open instead of one, but dismissed the thought knowing it was irrelevant.
With barely a glance Jacob turned back towards Percy with a slight smile, "Praetor the results are overwhelming. 17 to 3."
Shaking his head, but feeling the slightest smile begin to twitch across his face the Praetor spoke directly to the eagle bearer, "Go straight to Madame Aquilla's shop, and purchase whatever parchment she has. Bring it back here, and await the Primus Pilas to come out and make the announcement. Once the announcement is complete, allow one hour for Rome to cast its vote. Then I need you, Octavian, Centurion Larry, and a random citizen to do a vote count. If that is successful by a 75% margin then we will have our answer. I suggest we adjourn to allow everyone to pray for the Wisdom of Olympus to guide Rome."
A series of rumbles followed as many of the Senate members departed towards the exit of the chambers, while the Guard remained behind now giving cheeky grins to Percy. The young man sighed when they were alone, "Okay whose idea was this?"
Dylan the fourth cohort Centurion shrugged in response, "The twelfth legions. You heard the pleas on the field. While I think you successfully scared the shit out of everyone on the battlefield that day there is no question that Rome has always respected power. What you did that day Percy...is something I will never forget."
Jason nodded his head, "He's right Perce. I've seen you do some crazy thing with your powers over the years, but that...that was a godly level of power you displayed. I still am not even sure how you did it."
"That makes exactly two of us." Percy said, shuddering from the memory of exertion, "I just felt the rage overtake me. When I reached out for him I wanted his blood, and I could feel the air around me like it was solidifying. I am not so sure I could replicate the feat."
Nico in a purple toga strode from the back of the room with a slight grin tugging at the corners of his mouth, "No son of Neptune or Poseidon had ever done what you did that day on the battlefield. I have communed with the dead in search for answers, but none were forthcoming. I am with Centurion Grace, the level of power you displayed was terrifying, and I wanted to discover how you did it. No answer was forthcoming."
Bianca looked at her brother in surprise. He had been appointed the ambassador of Pluto during the awards ceremony the day before, so was granted an honorary role in the Senate if he was here during the session. Finally she responded, "No son of the sea has ever been pushed as hard as Percy. We all know he received training from Triton since he was eight years old. It's been nearly eight years since he's been training with the Heir of Atlantis. We shouldn't be surprised that something like this happened, or when it happens again. From the dead I communed with in the past none of the other sons of the sea controlled the Earthshaker abilities that Percy has so effortlessly wielded."
"You will need to be careful Praetor Jackson. An exertion like that could one day burn up your mortal form. You have enough divine blood in you that you have lived thus far through your exertions, but when I was watching you choke the life out of the one who bathed in the Styx I could see your aura begin to turn gold...I can assure you that's not a good thing." Nico said carefully.
"I haven't heard from my brother since the battle." Percy said as an afterthought, "But I thank both of you for looking into this matter. I haven't had a lot of time to give it the thought it deserves, but I'll take your words under advisement ambassador."
Nico smirked at his title, but offered a short bow of his head, "Whatever you think is best Praetor."
When Jacob returned heaving for breath and holding massive stacks of paper Percy gave a nod towards Michael who grumbled, "I hate public speaking. If anyone nominates me to Praetor I will box your ears."
The large man began making his way down the hall, and disappeared with Jacob shortly after. The room fell to silence as they heard the announcement get made, and the cheers that followed made Percy's heart swell with affection for his people. They had seen his efforts and heroics over the years. He had not taken it very seriously when the cry of Consul had been made on the battlefield, but for the first time he began to wonder if it was possible that the election would be successful.
Bianca was at his side as the group began chatting quietly about upcoming training exercises, and what they could do to begin planning an offensive against the Titans. She had subtly taken his hand somewhere along the way, something that clearly wasn't missed by the other females in the guard as they all began casting her sly looks that Percy promptly ignored. The only one who didn't look pleased was Reyna.
From the time Percy had met the daughter of Bellona he knew she was extremely ambitious. In a few years she herself might actually make a fine Praetor, but being in only her second year of service made this unlikely. He had no doubt the girl would've attempted to pursue him romantically if it meant her chances of being Praetor would increase, but that was something that had driven Percy away from the girl instead of closer. He would always have to wonder about her intentions, and though he had grown to respect, and befriend the girl the feelings would not go beyond that. Especially while the dark eyed beauty next to him was in the picture.
An hour had passed quickly. Talks of the next Praetor was specifically avoided as was the results of the election that would be following shortly. Larry had departed the group after the hour was up to join the others in the counting, and the anticipation in the room seemed to have increased after his departure. Everyone knew it would be a matter of moments at this point.
When the four counters entered, the grip on Bianca's hand increased, and the group went to take their respective seats in the Senate Chambers. Percy himself had returned to his chair at the front of the chambers, and motioned for Jacob to enter the court side of the room, and address the Senate.
"Before you read us the results, Eagle Bearer, please know that I will not think of Rome any differently regardless of the outcome of this vote." It became suddenly clear to Percy though that this was something he had wanted. At one point it was for other reasons, and different dreams, but now as the young man prepared to hear the results his stomach tied itself into knots, "Jacob please read us the result."
"Senatus." The eagle bearer announced, "The people of Rome have spoken in its decision to raise Praetor Jackson to the position of Consul. The official vote is as follows. There are 1548 citizens of New Rome who are either legionnaires, or full citizens with voting privileges. The final count of this vote was 1462 in favor, and 86 not in favor. Congratulations, Consul Jackson on your appointment."
Jacob offered an immediate bow of his head, while the rest of the Senate rose and offered a bow as well before Jason called out, "Ave Consul Jackson!"
"AVE!" The senate cried out in return.
Percy held out a hand motioning for silence when he shook his head with a smile feeling the nerves from earlier dissipating, "I will save the big speech for the people, but I am beyond honored having been elected into this position. As I have in my position as Praetor I will do my best to use what power, knowledge, and wisdom I have to guide Rome to the best of my abilities. Now before we give the public the news let us decide on our Praetors. We have two spots to fill, and only one nomination."
Reyna shot to her feet, "I nominate Jason Grace."
A banging of hands immediately came from the Praetorians, and Jason stood with a look of pride, and a huge smile on his face, "I accept this nomination."
Percy smiled at his cousin, "As Consul I full heartedly support this nomination as well. Jason and I have been fighting together since we were young boys. Rome needs a good warrior to lead them, and I can think of none better."
"I nominate the Primus Pilus, Michael Kahale!" Summer said, standing up with a wicked smirk on her face.
Michael looked murderous as snickers followed the announcement. The man stood up quickly, nearly knocking over the table in front of him, "I am honored by my fellow Centurions nomination, but I do not feel I possess the correct abilities to be Praetor. I wish that any who would support me instead look to another. I nominate Bianca Di Angelo to Praetor."
The shock on Bianca's face was clear to see, and Dylan smacked his fist two times on the table, "I second the nomination!"
Giving the girl a moment to get to her feet Percy stared at her waiting for her to move. When she didn't he decided to help her out, "Centurion Di Angelo you have been nominated to the position of Praetor. Will you stand before your peers for evaluation? Or would you like to reallocate the nomination."
Quickly the girl shot to her feet, "No Consul I accept this nomination with pride that our first file shows such faith in me."
Percy gave her a nod, and she remained standing, "Are there any other nominations?"
When silence fell over the senate Percy nodded, "Jacob please pass out the remaining paper you have. Senators you may each vote for two Praetors. Whoever has the majority will be appointed. May the gods guide your votes with wisdom."
As the papers were passed out Percy began attempting the math in his head. The thought of having Bianca, and Jason at his side was much more appealing than having to deal with Octavian. He had grown to respect the young man's political acumen, but he knew a snake in the grass when he saw one. As far as military leaders went he couldn't have asked for much better than the two he had started his first real world journey on. They had the real world experience, and understanding of military destruction that the others outside the guard may not have had.
The moments passed quickly, and three Senators were selected to tally up the votes. Jacob once again stood in front of the senate looking at his final piece of paper, "Jason Grace has been unanimously voted into the position of Praetor!"
The senate was on their feet at the appointment applauding happily while Jason stood to his fist raising a fist in the air in triumph. The chaos went away after a moment while Jacob cleared his voice, "Our second Praetor appointment was much closer. With a 13 to 8 margin...Bianca Di Angelo has been elected to the position of Praetor."
Percy immediately joined the senate on their feet in applause. Octavian looked like he had swallowed a lemon, but joined in the handshakes, and celebrations. When Percy descended from his area he brought both his long time friends into big hugs congratulating both of them on their appointments. It was then decided that they had kept the people in suspense long enough, and the son of Neptune led them out of the Senate house to steps where the entire population seemed to be waiting.
The green eyed young man offered a smile to the assembled audience, "Romans. The dye has been cast, and it seems I am once again in debt to the people of Rome. The people have spoken, and the Senate has granted me the rank of Consul."
A thunderous applause followed the news, and it took several moments before it died back down to a point where Percy could speak again, "I am humbled by this appointment, and for it to have been so overwhelming instills a gratitude in my heart that I cannot even begin to describe. Our good news does not end here. After my appointment to Consul it was realized by the Senate that we would need not one, but two elected Praetors to the position."
Reaching out to grab Jason's hand first, and then Bianca's he brought the two forward to stand at his side, "Rome I present you Praetor Jason Grace, and Praetor Bianca Di Angelo."
The appreciation of the crowd was clear. Jason and Bianca had proven themselves in different times to Rome, but their status would not be questioned by the people, and for that Percy was grateful, "I have spoken to this body of people many times before. So I will skip the speeches of grandeur for once, and allow my lifelong friends to give you a few words."
Nodding to Jason, Percy stepped back and allowed the young man to come forward, "Romans I have been beside you my entire life. I was practically born into the fifth cohort. Over the years I have met with nearly everyone in this city at one point or another. I have dedicated my life to Rome, and its people, and I am beyond honored to be standing next to the greatest friends I ever had. The only family I have ever known." He took a moment and a deep breath before continuing, "I know things are scary right now. Just a few days ago our way of life was attacked, and only intervention from the Divine allowed Rome to live for another day, but my faith in Rome and Olympus has not wavered. My faith in our newly elected Consul has not wavered. Together myself, Percy Jackson, and Bianca Di Angelo have brought the blood of our enemies to these hallowed grounds, and we will continue to do so until this war is brought to an end. I swear to all of you that we will return the era of peace to Rome through any means necessary. I swear to you that we will protect the Roman way of life with everything we have, and I swear to uphold the Roman Legacy with honor, strength, and whatever wisdom the gods decide to give me."
Cheers, and applause followed the young man's speech, and he smiled, taking a step back from the crowd, and allowing Bianca to step forward taking a visibly deep breath, "Romans. I have not been here my entire life like Jason. I wasn't born into this lifestyle, but I would like to believe I have adapted to it well. When I first came here I was an outcast. A lot like Consul Jackson I was frowned upon by my heritage. I didn't let that discourage me though. I took the friendship of our leader, and began learning to be the best warrior I could. I am humbled to have been nominated by the legions Primus Pilus, someone I have looked up to, and respected since my arrival at Camp Jupiter. I am honored to have been selected by the Senators, many of whom I have fought beside in the Praetorian Guard, or on the battlefield following the Battle of the Labyrinth. Now I stand before you with undying gratitude to have been chosen to lead you in a time of fear and uncertainty. Praetor Grace, someone I see as family, was one of the few who I bonded with upon my arrival here at Camp, and I am blessed to be standing up here with him, and a man I have come to deeply care for. For the first time in history the legion will be led by a child of Pluto, Jupiter, and Neptune, and when this news reaches our enemies that the eldest gods' children stand together they will cower in fear. I leave you all with this. History will be kind to us for I intend to write it with each and every Roman at my side."
The girl raised a fist in the air, and many matched her stance in a sign of respect. It was far from silent however as the people showed their faith in the leaders that they had elected. Percy stepped forward and grabbed each of his Praetor's hands and raised them into the air for the world to see. The cousins would stand together, and make any enemy of Rome that might stand against them pay for it in blood.
(A/N) Hello everyone, and welcome to the final push! The events of The Last Olympian will start to unfold in the next chapter. If you want to read that chapter TODAY, you can join me over on Discord where I will be sharing some advanced content for this story, and all my others as well. The easiest way to find my discord is to look up my username at OrionB15, or I will try to provide a link below to see if will break my URL again. Regardless I hope you all enjoyed this rise to power, and realize that this was my plan from the beginning. Cheers everyone, and I will see you all on the 28th!
Discord.
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A shout out to James Marx for beta approving this chapter. We are in the Endgame now.
