Chapter 40

It wasn't the first time Percy had woken up under water. It was the first time he woke up under water to half a dozen different sea creatures staring at him in wonder. Before he could start taking an account of who was looking at him the pain in his body nearly made him black out. An odd sensation gripped his arm hard, and Percy looked up to see a blue ichthyocentaur staring at him intently, "Hang on little prince. We need you to keep those lights on so we can heal you. Lord Deplhin it's now or never."

Percy blinked hazily as a large dolphin floated over him and placed a fin to his forehead. A burning sensation began creeping through Percy's body, and immediately he let out a scream of agony, "Triton, Bill, hold him!"

The world spun faster as he tried to register the voice in the room, and Percy could see nothing but gold in his vision. He thrashed and fought against the grips that were pinning him to a long table, and flashes of his life were passing his vision. He wondered if this is what it would feel like when he finally died. Would he go to the fields of punishment for failing in his task the gods had set for him? Or would he be rewarded for going out heroically. The physical pain quickly reminded him of the mental anguish he experienced before he tried to sink the Princess Andromeda. He had killed Dylan. He hadn't meant too. He was trying to stab the Titan Lord, but when he disappeared…his trident had pierced through his friend like butter. The table he sat on began to shake, and he heard a voice yell, "No Perseus. Don't give up. Don't lose control."

Percy however blocked out the words. The image of stabbing Dylan in the chest played through his mind on repeat. The look in Gwen's eyes when he lost her. The blank stare of Mark when he was killed on Mount Tam. It was a replay of many horrible moments of his life, but the voice reached out to him again, "Percy they need you. The Romans. Your friends at camp. Jason. Bianca. They can't do this without you."

The words made the images in his head falter. Suddenly an image of Jason and himself sitting on the beach with two cokes took over instead. It was peaceful. Then an image of the Praetorians all having lunch outside of Yosemite. It had been a successful mission. They had decimated the enemy, and they were enjoying a rowdy lunch of excitement from another successful mission. They were all there, alive and happy. Then there was a moment with Bianca. They were smiling as they spared before the Gladiatorial Challenge. Huge infectious smiles. It had just been a normal training day, but they were loving every second of it. Then their kiss flashed before his eyes, and suddenly the chair he was on stilled. The feeling of serenity engulfed him, and the world stopped shaking.

Sighs of relief were heard around him, and Percy opened his eyes once again. This time he was able to take in the six figures. The blue Ichthyocentaur was clearer now. The creature was monstrous, and intimidating the first of his kind Percy had truly encountered up close. Then there was Lord Delphin, which Percy recognized easily enough. Next to him was a large Mer-Man, a Cyclops, a demigod that the son of Neptune instantly recognized as Achillies, and his brother Triton.

"What's your prognosis Lord Delphin?" Triton asked the Dolphin.

The Dolphin Lord chattered quietly, "He seems to be stabilizing my lord. I believe he will survive."

"Then my son has taken enough of your attention. My lords, my friends, thank you for coming to his aide, but our people can go no longer without your assistance on the battlefield." Came a much deeper and powerful voice in the back of the room.

It was a voice Percy would have recognized anywhere. The voice of his father Neptune. A voice that held so much power it always humbled Percy, but also made him feel strong. The room began to clear until it was just Triton and a merman that clapped his brother on the shoulder saying quiet words before departing. It was just the three power houses of the Ocean after that, and Triton touched Percy's head with the back of his hand as the young man continued to lie flat on the metal table, "I don't know how you did it. I don't know how you survived. We were fighting below you, and trying to break Oceanus' hold on the Ocean so you could sink the ship. Nothing we did was working. I had the best heroes of Atlantis on it. We were fighting below when I thought father had intervened, and saved you, but it was you. You broke the Titan's hold on the area. Not alone, but you did it. A feat I believe no mortal could have achieved."

"You nearly killed yourself doing it Percy." Neptune said, his voice seeming closer than before.

Percy blinked the lights out of his eyes as he shook his head gently feeling every bit as injured as he likely looked, "When I cried out for the Lords of the Ocean to help me I intended it to kill me. I thought that was the sacrifice necessary to break Oceanus' hold and sink the boat. We were dead either way."

"My father is more powerful than we imagined in this mortal host's form he has taken. It is a good thing you survived. I am unsure our side would've held out long enough for the son of Jupiter to reach sixteen." Neptune said carefully.

"I can't beat him dad. He is too powerful. He nearly killed me on our home turf. If he marches on Olympus…we won't be able to stop him." Percy said as he tried to sit up.

Neither Neptune or Triton tried to stop him, but his vision swam with pain as his sore body sat up, "How long have I been out?"

"Three days." Triton said sadly, "I sent a messenger to the Praetor's to let them know you were in critical condition. You were touch and go the entire time, and we lost you half a dozen times. Percy…you used a power no mortal son of Poseidon has ever called on before. Your power has exceeded every expectation we ever could have set. We all saw what you did to the son of Hercules…Theseus and Orion combined didn't have the power to execute what you did."

"You trained him well Triton you should be proud. Now the world has seen what my children could do with the proper guidance." Neptune said with pride in his voice.

The words warmed Percy's chest, but there was still so much he didn't understand, "My friend…the man that was with me…is he-"

"His body was returned to camp. The messenger I sent delivered the body fully intact so he could receive proper burial rights from his people. I am sorry Perseus. He died with honor, and it was undoubtedly his death that caused you to reach for the strength that nearly burnt your mortal essence away." Triton said sadly.

"Is that what happened to me?" Percy asked warily.

"Yes." Neptune answered, "No demigod has ever done so, but you were the closest in history. The godly power you exerted completely overtook your mortal form. It burnt away much, but with the help of the Ocean, and our best healers we brought you back from the brink of death. I fear if not for this prophecy lingering over your head the fates would have snapped your chord my boy."

"You have been pushing the bounds of your powers for sometime now. I think you are breaking thresholds that demigods were never meant to. First at the volcano in Washington, and then again on the battlefield against the demigod that bathed in the Styx." Triton said warningly, "You will not survive if you continue on your current path."

Percy looked from his father to Triton, and he had a feeling they were expecting him to say something about what he would do differently to survive, but the truth was he didn't have a clue. He was so far out of options it wasn't even comical. Nico's idea was something, but it wasn't a guarantee it was… At that moment it hit Percy. It was desperate, but there was no doubt they were desperate. Saturn had wiped the floor with him twice now. One time he was saved by his brother. The other time it was literally in the Ocean and the water saved him. He wouldn't be so lucky a third time. He needed a divine move, and he needed something that was going to keep his mortal form from burning up, "Will it allow me to use my powers more freely?"

Triton and Neptune exchanged looks, and the man sighed, "I must go. Oceanus approaches. He is angry after you defeated him, Perseus, and he will be looking for recompense. You embarrassed him in front of his brother, and the rest of the Titan army. I suspect you will need to be more careful than usual around unfriendly sides of my domain….Triton remember the ancient laws. Too much could ruin everything." Turning back to Percy the Lord of the Oceans smiled, "Good luck my son. I will see you on Olympus one way or another."

With those ominous words the man disappeared in a golden light leaving Triton and Percy alone. The lime green humanoid godling shook his head, "We don't have a lot of time, and you need to get back to your people. Your question earlier is difficult. No demigod of your caliber has ever attempted a bath like you are thinking about. I could only imagine the effects it could have. Trust your friends Perseus. That's all I can tell you. I have said enough as is."

Percy could only nod as he stood to his feet feeling shaky. Triton frowned, "I know you aren't fully healed. I will see what I can do to get you fast and reliable transport back to Camp. Rest for a few days, and prepare for the inevitable. The assault on Mount Othrys has to begin soon, and you will need to cripple Saturn's power before even daring to attack him again. Even with the bath you could take it wouldn't matter if his throne is intact." The heir of Atlantis seemed to be stewing words over in his mind as he shook his head resolving himself, "Perseus. This is the last time we will speak until the war is over. One way or another. Be strong, and remember your teachings. No matter the outcome…I am proud to have been your teacher, and…your brother."

Percy wanted to get choked up at the sentiment his brother was showing, but his mentor looked deeply uncomfortable so the son of Neptune flashed him a grin, "Well if we lose maybe they will let us share punishments in Tartarus when the Titans toss us down there as a family."

The effect was instant. A shudder passed through Triton, and then a slight grin tugged at the corners of his mouth, "As if I would want to get stuck with you for eternity. I only put up with you because your fleeting mortal life will end eventually, and I will reap the rewards of training the greatest mortal warrior in history for eternity."

Trying his best not to blush at his brother's backhanded compliment Percy offered the Atlantean a twisted smirk, "Maybe one day the world will just know you as my brother."

Triton rolled his eyes, and seemed to contemplate what should happen next he stepped forward making Percy think he was about to receive his first hug from his brother, but the Prince of Atlantis seemed to think better of it. Instead he offered a hand, "Good luck Percy Jackson. Win or lose I will make sure Atlantis never forgets your story."

Percy took the hand, and offered a bow when their hands separated, "Thank you for everything Lord Triton."

With that Percy turned and walked towards the exit of the throne room, and pushed off the ground as if he were in zero gravity, and began heading towards the open sea.

With his injuries it took longer to return to Camp then what his normal abilities would've allowed. It was definitely more than a day, but in the water Percy's energy took a lot longer to expend. Something told him a great need for a nap would be upon him when he returned to the Surface World. He also realized that his time in the water had been a massive help in his healing factor. His father's domain seemed to be desperate to protect, and heal him, which made the Consul of Rome proud to be a son of the seas.

Arriving in the Tiber Percy recognized the change in domains. It was subtle, and the water would always answer his call to arms, but even still he could tell that he had entered another deity's neck of the woods. The little Tiber river goddess had never manifested in front of Percy, but nonetheless he knew she was there. The water seemed to warm at his arrival as if in greeting, and Percy shot out of the river with a final burst of speed breaking out into the light of day.

Behind the son of Neptune the Caldecott Tunnel was just on the other side of the river. He knew a lookout would be down there, and remembered his arrival at Camp Jupiter all those years ago. Fighting through the river, and joining Jason for the first time in battle. It was a lifetime ago in Percy's mind, and would never forget he was once just a weak little child running from the monsters in his closet.

Shaking his head Percy began to stroll forward. His injuries weighed on him, but he kept his head held high. It took no time at all before people began to notice him. Whispers followed his waking path towards the Praetoria. He caught some of them. Some were whispers of reverence. The Consul of Rome had walked away from another encounter with the Titan Lord, and this time he had been partially victorious. They had after all completed their objective in destroying the Princess Andromeda, but at the same time they paid a heavy price for victory.

Percy arrived via Principia with a crowd continuing to follow behind him. None approached him out of respect. They all must have known he had not been given a chance to pay his respects to his fallen friend. They must now all know what mission had been conducted in total secrecy. He had no doubt Jason and Bianca had told the Senate, and the cohorts what combat exercise the Consul and his chosen Centurion had conducted. Romans had a large value on paying their respects to the fallen. Especially to those who died in service of the people. There was no doubt the cause in which Dylan Payne had fallen for.

The two guards at the front doors separated at his arrival in salute, neither going to greet the young man before them. When he entered the building he immediately saw Bianca and Jason looking over a map. At his entrance they both looked up in alarm, but their looks softened at the site of him. Bianca ran to him, and embraced him tightly. Percy gripped the girl for all she was worth. For the first time the magnitude of what had happened fell upon him. The fact that he had survived was a miracle. The second miracle in such a short time. He had no doubt the fates would not grant him a third if serious action wasn't taken.

When they separated she offered a sad reassuring smile to her boyfriend, while Jason came forward embracing the man who was like his brother, "We thought we lost you."

"You damn well nearly did. Triton and the other Atlanteans had me on the operating table for three days straight. I was told that I nearly slipped away multiple times, but that is hardly anything new these days is it?" Percy said with a sad smile at his best friends.

The two Praetors shook their heads, and Bianca took his hand, "Will you tell us what happened?"

"I will tell everyone what happened. Rome needs to honor its fallen hero." Percy said leaving no room for argument in his tone.

Neither Jason, or Bianca protested. Percy stood in thought for a moment while Jason scratched the back of his head, "We already gave Dylan his burial rights. Yesterday. We had no idea when you were coming back so-"

"Please Jason, you don't have to explain yourself. I understand. I will do my own thing for him. For all of Rome to see. He sacrificed himself for our way of life, and he will be honored by me in any way I can manage. I owe it to him." Percy said, feeling his heart hammer with regret.

The pain in his voice was clearly evident as Jason and Bianca exchanged weary looks. It was a look Percy only saw in the days following Gwen's death. He knew what they must be thinking, but he shook his head, "Come on guys. I have to do this."

They fell in behind him as he walked back out onto the Principia. The guards once again saluted the trio as they came out together, and it seemed more and more people were falling into the crowd waiting to get an address from their leaders. Percy however ignored them, and went towards the fourth cohort barracks on his left. The crowd watched in anticipation as the young man entered the building. He passed a few Roman legionnaires along the way, and each quickly offered him a salute. It was not long at all before a young woman was greeting him from a salute. Her eyes were puffy like she had been crying for days, but she still stood in a strong position, "Consul. You honor us with your arrival. What can the fourth cohort do for you?"

Percy looked the chestnut hair colored girl in the eyes, "Centurion Leila Dang, I have come to pay respects to my friend. Your counterpart. Where can I find his Centurion sword, and helmet?"

The girl looked surprised at the question, and the formal addressal, "Sir those items can be found in Centurion Payne's office….another has not been moved into his position yet even though his optio is capable and ready."

"We will solve that tomorrow, Centurion. Today we must honor a great hero. Please give me a moment, and go outside with the others. I will begin paying my respects publicly, and telling the story of his sacrifice shortly.

The girl nodded in understanding, and she started to walk by, but Percy put an arm out to stop her. He couldn't form the words, and she looked at him in confusion before asking in a soft voice, "Consul?"

Percy blinked hard, but steeled his resolve, "I am sorry you are in this position. I know Dylan and yourself had been friends for a long time, and have served as Centurions together for years. Of all the people I owe an apology to you are sitting damn near the top of my list. I'm sorry Leila. Dylan was one of the greatest Romans I ever had the privilege of fighting beside. His sacrifice was not in vain."

They never met eyes. Percy couldn't look into hers. He had always suspected a romantic relationship between the two, and the hammer that hit him in the gut when he saw how red her eyes were answered the question. He had seen that kind of grief before. In the mirror everyday when he had lost Gwen. No other words were said, and he lowered his arm walking towards the man's office.

Percy had visited the office many times over the last two years. They would often talk about strategy, and abilities together. They didn't have much in common outside of the legion. They had different interests, and different goals, but still their friendship was solid. A picture of the Praetorian Guard group together after their assault at Yosemite was framed on his desk. Percy stood next to Dylan with an arm around the boy. It had been a good day. They had done good work in the field, and on their way home they had all stopped at a diner where this picture was taken for dinner.

His heart ached at the site of his fallen friend, but he looked up at the wall to see the man's armor hanging. A Centurion Gladius was hung above it. Dylan rarely used the sword in kill missions, and would only use it during cohort exercises. It was more of a badge of honor than a weapon to Dylan, and Percy knew it.

Easily he dismounted the sword and helmet, and walked out of the office closing the door with a final glance at the picture on the desk. The fourth cohort barrack was empty now. When he exited he saw what had to be the entirety of the legion. At least those that had not been on perimeter patrol. He ignored all of them carrying the items that he had wrapped in a purple SPQR banner on his way out, and made his way towards the Field of Mars with whispers at his back.

It was a short walk, and finding the area where they must have burnt his shroud was easy. In that very spot Percy drew the sword and drove it straight through the ground. It cut through the Earth like butter, and Percy went down to both knees and placed the helmet on the hilt of the sword. He then took the purple SPQR banner, and neatly folded it placing it in front of the sword, and helmet. He folded his hands inward, and offered a prayer to Lord Pluto, and Lord Thanatos. He begged for swift passage into the Underworld, and quick judgment. When he finished his prayers he placed his forehead to the helmet, and rose to his feet turning to address the crowd that had gathered.

"I know Centurion Payne's burial rights were yesterday, but I owed this man one step further. A man who followed me across the country, and into enemy territory to leave a devastating mark upon the enemy. I apologize to my fellow Romans for the secrecy, but I had hoped by leaving it among the Praetor's myself, and our trusted Centurion that it would minimize the risk of our plan being discovered." Percy explained with a heavy heart. He went on to explain the plan, and the intelligence they had received from Triton. He explained the perfectly executed plan, and then the fight with Lord Saturn. His fist clenched in memory of the Titan Lord playing with them, and then ultimately making Percy kill his friend. Percy met the eyes of many in the crowd, and it was clear they were shocked by the story, "The Titan Lord is powerful of that there is no doubt, but in turn he gave me the power to destroy his base of operations. He gave me the power to buy our allies time to prepare a defense of New York, and Olympus. The sacrifice Dylan made by going with me on this suicide mission was a braver act than I ever could've asked of any Roman. I owe him my life, and I will never forget his sacrifice. I will remember the rage I felt when my trident pierced my friend's chest. I will remember the fury I felt when I retook control of my fathers domain and laid waste to our enemies. I will remember all these things when I lead our forces, and burn the Black Fortress to the grounds."

Turning to face the mark of the soldier Percy said in a much quieter voice with fist clenched once again, "And I swear I will do what it takes to make sure I make those bastards pay for it. I swear to you Dylan I am going to pave the starways in their blood for this."

With his words being said he walked back towards the barracks. A hole formed in the crowd allowing him to pass through, and he could tell that many were in awe of his abilities. Hearing rumors of their victory, and then hearing the story first hand from a survivor was a totally different experience. They heard his tenacity, his rage, and there wasn't a man, woman, or child in the crowd that did not believe Percy would get his pint of blood for their fallen comrade.