Chapter Eleven: My Declaration

Disclaimer: I do not own Rick Riordan's
Percy Jackson and the Olympians
and the Heroes of Olympus Series, and I do not
own the songs I put into this book either.
I only own my fan made characters and of course
the plot line.

Added Songs – In Order of Appearance
My Declaration - Eliza Bennett

~Author's Note~
Well guys here we are, the part I call the official start of the main story arch. All the previous chapters were building up to the full overall developmental body of the story and honestly, I admit that I have probably gotten far to serious in my back and forth editing of the overall plot but to me it's worth it because I did not feel satisfied. I wanted to complete this story with an overall plot that I myself was completely happy with. I admit I was never this serious when it came to writing Lies of the Wandering Soul but now this story I am letting my years of learning dictate where I want to go with this story. This references a lot of mental issues and personal experiences that I went through from the time I first started writing Lies. And time wise I have no set dates for chapters honestly because writing comes from inspiration and sometimes I could wack out 2 chapters in under a week, but with this story the chapters are gonna be longer for some plot coverage purposes but I hope you enjoy this journey with me because I know I will enjoy it with all of you. Please enjoy this chapter. Forgive any mistakes if I missed any. I did go through it for consecutive days xD.

A Few Days Later…

The vividly loud slice of the never-ending midnight sky had all but captured Annabeth's full attention with all it's splendid and glorious rapture. The usually loud, rambunctious city beneath the roof of Apollo records felt somewhat quieter than she was used to. It would probably be loud and booming with the trembling of the nightclub music that would pulsate every Friday night when the youth of the city celebrated their freedom of the tense work week. Although Annabeth had not been keeping a consistent track of the days as the world passed by, she still wondered where time had gone since her conversation with Zoe on this very roof, under this very tree. A conversation that had been constantly at the forefront of her mind ever since it had happened, and yet she enjoyed the freedom that came from letting her thought consumed mind get lost in the effortless wondering, especially when sleep eluded her.

It was obvious to Annabeth that she could not really stomach falling asleep for a variety of reasons ranging from insomnia, to traumatic nightmares, to the over clustering of rampant thoughts racing in her mind. For a time it was manageable but after her conversation with Zoe, Apollo had approached her and the foreboding words he left with her had been eating away at her. 'I know you have a lot on your mind right now Annabeth, but we do need to talk.' Those words she knew would lead to a harsh reality and intense discussion on her future. On her decision about if she would make another album, if she would take a temporary leave of absence from the industry, or the biggest question of all, was whether she was well and truly retiring from music. Those were just some of the questions she knew Apollo wanted to ask her after their screaming match when Calypso had showed up at Apollo records and been told she and Annabeth would be working together. Honestly, Annabeth was not ready to confront those questions. The biggest thing on her mind was trying to figure out how she was even going to write a love song for Will and Bianca's wedding.

She had spent hours, days, pawing through her old materials and sources. Possibly hundreds of pieces of paper scribbles, files on the computer, music sheets. Annabeth had even gone as far as to obtaining Hazel and Luke's laptops from her music control room and sifted through their music files from editing her music, as well going as far as to play around with the sound boards and music programs to try piece a sound or something together… nothing connected. Annabeth had yet to touch a musical instrument, she had not touched even her guitar since that day in Percy's apartment because the mere thought of touching it left her trembling and panicking from the stress of the onslaught of memories that would come.

Annabeth had been trying to put those memories away so she could focus but also because she wanted to forget because she couldn't overcome that fear. She could remember how the strings of her guitar felt beneath her fingertips, how the strap felt against the back of her shoulder, the smell of the wooden frame of her guitar as she cradled the neck and made magic from nothing. Talking with Zoe had somewhat helped her step closer to maybe picking up her instrument but the thoughts, everything, it was just too much. There was so much wrong with her, so much that needed to be fixed that she could not do on her own. A little encouragement would only go so far, it was clear to Annabeth she needed professional help.

She had not been to see her therapist she had once seen in over a year and a half, and thankfully Annabeth still had the contact number. The minute her therapist had picked up, the soft timbre voice saying, "I've been waiting for your call Miss Chase. Shall I schedule a home, work or hospital environment visit." Annabeth did not hesitate in scheduling an appointment for Monday, here in Apollo records. It would not be the first time her therapist had to come to Annabeth, considering most of the time it was to protect Annabeth's reputation as a celebrity musician. Annabeth knew she would be lying to herself if she said that the thought of walking out the building did not cause her anxiety to flare. She needed the help, because maybe once her mind was clear she could find her inner musician again.

The silence she found on the roof tonight was a true and beautiful and tender comfort for the destruction and chaos running rampant in her mind. It took everything within herself to focus on the calm in the storm, what made it easier was closing her eyes but her head was still a mess. She was still a mess and wished she could find the peace she used to have once upon a time. "Gods Annabeth you really did fucking mess everything up didn't you." She growled as she reached up and pressed the heel of the palms of her hands into her eyes and growled in frustration. "I'm just such a weak, pathetic human being who just fucking ruins everything and everyone's lives. All for a pointless dream. If I hadn't met Apollo that day I wouldn't have ruined or destroyed so many people's lives." She said as she draped her left arm over her eyes and she slammed her right fist onto the ground next to her, her anguish and guilt slowly continuing to eat her alive.

"I beg to differ, you know." A familiar voice spoke in the distance, surprising Annabeth at the fact that someone other than her was here this late at night. Annabeth remained frozen as she heard the person step closer before they stopped just above Annabeth's head. "Come on princess. Let me see those pretty eyes."

"I thought I told you not to call me that. I don't even have long hair anymore." Annabeth said as she removed her arm from over her eyes and stared up at the dimly lit face of Clarisse La Rue when she first met her now Clarisse Rodriguez a few years down the line considering the drum player and overall badass was a mom and hard working individual that Annabeth found herself constantly looking up to. The woman's brown eyes were always a different state, sometimes those brown eyes were intense, then sometimes they were just embodied the aura of an epic badass and then at times they were nothing but the gentleness of a loving, kind hearted mother who wanted to protect those she cared about.

"Not sorry but since I met ya, you're gonna always be called Princess, no matter what you do to your looks." Clarisse mused as she smirked with amusement. "I was hoping to share a bed with a pretty gal tonight. Chris had a job outside town so he took the little man with. Spending it at a hotel. Will be back in the morning. Personally I didn't wanna rock up to an empty house so figured I'd room with ya. Didn't think I'd find ya up here again, just grateful I remembered that one time I saw you punch your code in." The tall, built woman shifted and sat cross legged against the tree that Annabeth was lying under. "And I wasn't fucking with ya Chase when I said I beg to differ when you said you'd ruined or destroyed everyone's lives. It's a matter of opinion to be frank."

Annabeth sat up and hugged her Jean covered legs to her chest. "Well coming from the person who tore up two families, broke a man's heart and soul, fucked with everyone's work and livelihood and ruined a band and destroyed countless friendships, I think my opinion on the matter is pretty accurate." She huffed in thinly veiled annoyance. "Rooms all yours. I'm probably just gonna stay up here. Can't really sleep-" Annabeth took a heavy sigh trying to figure out exactly what she was willing to share, but in the end she just but her tongue and decided to be honest, "Nightmares, insomnia, guilt, anxiety, self-loathing and hatred. The whole works if I'm being honest with myself. Probably more shit wrong with me than even I can admit to myself." Annabeth said as she looked at Clarisse.

"I'll admit two things. You're mouth certainly runs away from your brain and thinking side a lot more. Got to say I love your slight rebellion. To be honest I'd have done exactly what you did, cut my hair, got pierced, maybe a few tattoos, hair dyed, changed myself." Clarisse said as she leaned against the tree and gave a chuckle, "Hard to give you a hard time when you're going through a shit tonne and I get it. But running away from who you were, the things you did, stuff you said, won't change the present moment. Regardless, people are gonna have an opinion and judge or support you. It there is one thing I can say to you right now Annabeth, it's that you are still the same person I met when you were seventeen years old." Clarisse said with a fond smile.

"I honestly do not see how I could be the same person I was at that age. A lot about me had changed." Annabeth defended with a slight hug as she leaned her chin in her knees as she held her legs to her chest.

"No matter how much you try deny it, you know I'm not wrong, Princess." Clarisse said with a smile as she reached into her pocket and pulled out piece of paper that looked so aged and worn from being folded and refolded hundreds of times. "I lie, I saw you the first time when you auditioned against Calypso. You didn't remember me but I was the one with the bruised knuckles from punching the wall cause I was panicked and stressed and just had a fight with Chris and my family. I so desperately wanted to prove them wrong, that I could make money off the limited knowledge of music genres I had. I looked like an innocent little girl in my shorts and hoodie."

Annabeth's eyes widened in recognition, "I do remember you but what relevance does that have. I was a very different person back then. So were you. Maybe not drastically but you changed too." Annabeth challenged with a frown, not sure what the point was. She just wanted her silence back.

"I'm getting there blondie. Just chill." Clarisse said with an exasperated breath, "The things I put up with honestly." She mumbled as she unfolded the piece of paper. "You remember we met after and I told you they called me back for another round of auditions," Clarisse didn't wait for Annabeth to respond, she continued speaking, "I asked if you thought I'd make it. You told me that a long time ago you wrote this statement, this declaration and promise to yourself. You gave it to me and to this day, when I was stressed or questioning anything in my life, I read that declaration. I used to wonder why you didn't turn it into a song… because it certainly always showed me what I knew about you."

"And what was that Clarisse?" Annabeth asked as she looked up at her work colleague and fellow musician.

"That the girl who wrote these words was one of the bravest and strongest people I've ever known ." Clarisse said with a soft smile on her face as she passed the paper to Annabeth. "You think you've changed but you've faced so many challenges… and one of the bravest things I've seen you do is question whether or not you will change if you leave music. Who would you be without music… you'd still be you. Crazy, amazing, creative, beautiful, kind, compassionate and brave, the qualities of a princess. You're unafraid to stand up for yourself, no matter what was thrown your way. Those lyrics weren't just pointless ramblings of a young girl… those were your words no matter what age because that's exactly who you are. Read them, sing them, do whatever but look at them and remember them because those words are you in a nutshell." Clarisse said with a smile.

Annabeth hesitantly accepted the piece of paper. Yes the words had faded and been written over multiple times but it was her words. She didn't remember writing them but she remembered once someone very special to her once upon a time told her she always needed to have something to remind her of her promises to herself. She stared at the title, "My Declaration - By Annabeth Marie Chase," the words that spoke a thousand meanings but this was her promise, to herself.

Without even meaning to, her eyes stared at the words, remembered the day those words came out of her, how that promise to herself made her feel, how such meaning could come from a few simple words on a piece of paper. And she didn't even realize it but the more she read them over and over and over again, the more the words resonated within her. Had she made mistakes in her near 9 year music career? Yes she absolutely had. She'd had her heart broken, broken people's hearts, hurt people but she'd been hurt too… yet she was still here.

Without even meaning to, she opened her lips and started singing those words to an old tune from her memory, "I'm gonna be someone, I'm gonna give something, I'm taking it on, I'm taking it on," She sang it in almost a breathless whisper, as if talking to the deepest part of herself, "It's gonna be my life, so I'm gonna live each day and each night, Taking it on, I'm taking it on."

Annabeth could feel her own eyes welling as she read her own words, the youthful and naive promises she had made and then she took her eyes off the paper and her life moved before her own eyes, the mistakes, the heartaches, the regrets… it all came effortless, as did the words that weren't written on the page but in her heart and she caught the shock and surprise in Clarisse eyes as Annabeth sang a new part of her declaration, "'Cause I can't keep hiding, no I can't keep hiding, and I can't keep running away, So I'm gonna be stronger, I'm gonna be better made, I'm gonna give everything, Just to bring me back again."

Annabeth could feel her eyes heavy with a layer of tears as realization had hit her. For years she wondered who she was, what she was trying to accomplish as a musician. She'd forgotten her own declaration and promise to herself. As the gentle wind blew, a light gust of wind came and carried the piece of paper out of Annabeth's hand causing her to reach out to catch it as it drifted away and landed on the still water of the quiet water feature that had been switched off for the night. Annabeth had always believed in a slight cosmic power, that signs were important. The world was telling her something.

She finally knew what that was.

"Argh damn I loved that thing and now it's ruined." Clarisse said with a huff but was thrown off when a body collided with hers and she found Annabeth hugging her tightly, face buried in the space between her head and shoulder, crying into her neck, clinging to her like she was the most valuable treasure in the world. "Chase? What's wrong?" Clarisse asked in confusion as she wrapped her arms around Annabeth and held her in a gentle embrace that seemed to sooth Annabeth even though she was crying.

"Thank you. Thank you for giving me the answer I needed." Annabeth said as she held her friend close. It was true that Annabeth and Clarisse were very different but Clarisse had somehow always been the hidden support and comfort and guidance that Annabeth never knew she had when she thought she had no one. When Luke broke up with her and Thalia was so busy, Clarisse was there for Annabeth. When Thalia needed Annabeth, Clarisse pushed her back in the right direction. "Thank you for always being there Clarisse… thank you for everything." Annabeth said with a soft voice as Clarisse held her.

"I always got your back, Princess." Clarisse said in a soft reassuring voice. "Now you said I gave you the answer you needed… what can I do to help?" Clarisse asked as she gently pushed Annabeth back so she could see Annabeth's face and for a moment she flashed back to all those years ago where Annabeth told her about the personal declaration she made that kept her on her path to this day.

"I need you to help me tell my story… I need to see everyone tomorrow, today, I need everyone's help for this." Annabeth said as she looked at her friend. "I finally know what I'm going to do for my album and you helped me figure that out and how I'm going to tell it." Annabeth said with a smile.

"Well guess we'd better go and figure out how to tell everyone." Clarisse said as she stood up and helped Annabeth to her feet. "Let's go share your story Princess." Clarisse said with a smile as she took off to the door and for a moment Annabeth stopped and stared up at the night sky for moment, as the breeze blew gently, it made her smile as if the wind was giving her a hug because she didn't feel cold, but felt warm in that cool night.

As she stood there she couldn't help but remember fondly and gratefully…

Annabeth couldn't contain her nerves or every growing anxiety as she waited for her friend to arrive. With her music audition a few days away, she felt her nerves continue on its path of disrupting her once calm mind, she was grateful to hear the knock on her bedroom door. "Annie, Lukas is here." She heard her father say in a teasing tone followed by a groan.

"Sir, my name is Luke." Said a young male in an exasperated voice, still not able to get the elderly man to get his name right even though Mr. Chase lived for teasing Luke. Annabeth looked up to see her blonde bear friend in the doorway with an exhausted look on his face, "I hate you for telling him my full first name. I swear when I'm older I'm changing it permanently to Luke." He said with a grown as Annabeth stood up and went to her friend who hugged her and gave her a kiss on the top of her head with a tender smile on their spaces respectively.

"Have fun you two. Don't do anything naughty you two." Mr. Chase teased and left the two blushing furiously and groaning at the old man and his relentless teasing.

"Honestly… I often wonder how your dad and mom ever even got together. They are so different." Luke said as he slid his backpack off his back and removed his white jersey he was wearing over his football uniform since he'd stopped by on his way home from practice.

" It baffles me too but somehow they did and here I am." She said with a chuckle before her racing mind caught up with her. She hadn't told Luke or Thalia about this opportunity she had to sing an audition. "Luke… I need help… I have a secret that I only told my dad who supports me completely… I haven't told Thalia yet but I figured you might be able to help me more. You're far more level headed than Thalia sometimes… also better at giving solid logical advice which I need right now." Annabeth said as she crossed her arms over her chest and looked at her feet.

"Tell me what's up Annie. I got your back." Luke said with a tender warm smile as he cupped her chin and ripped her face up so she was looking at him and gave her cheek a stroke with his thumb. Annabeth blushed, same with Luke but she still smiled anyway. She couldn't lie and say her best friend wasn't handsome but she was certain Thalia was thinking the same thing since Thalia hated other girls staring at Luke during his games or practices. Especially the dumb cheerleaders. Stupid Luke for being such a handsome devil.

"I have a music audition… at a somewhat newer music company but it's owned by a big name… Apollo Solace. He owns Apollo Records… in New York City… two weeks ago he happened to be here and he heard me sing, convinced me to introduce him to mom and dad… he convinced them to let me audition and mom will be in New York next week… she's letting me do it." Annabeth said nervously as Luke's eyes widened and a face splitting smile appeared on his face as he scooped her up and spun her round as she shrieked in surprise.

"Oh My Gods Annabeth that's amazing! Congratulations yiure gonna be amazing Annie." Luke said as he set her on her feet and cupped her face in his hands, his proud and beaming smile growing even more. "This is something you've dreamed of for years. You're gonna be a star! I couldn't be prouder of you." Annabeth's eyes widened when she saw tears in Luke's eyes and her heart soared. He was so happy for her and she was so happy that he was happy for her. "Sorry sorry sorry, I'm so excited for you but you said you needed some solid advice… so what's wrong are you nervous or are you worried about something else." He asked softly as he encouraged her to sit down on her bed.

Annabeth sighed, "I've always known I've loved music and part of me always wanted to do it to spite my mother but I've grown so much love for it… but is loving something good enough." She said with a soft voice. "I mean I have no idea if I'll be a solo artist or in a band or if I'll even be more than a backup singer. Will that ever be good enough for me? I had this idea of being a singer but now that I have the chance… I don't know if I'm in over my head or if I'm really sure this is what I want." Annabeth said with a sigh as she leaned forward and rested her head on his chest."Am I sure this is what I want to do?"

Luke reached up and pressed a hand to the back of her neck and played with her light, golden curls. "Annie, you already know the answer." He said as she lifted her head and stared up into his beautiful shining eyes with her slightly tear filled eyes as he gently placed his hand over her, his gaze tender and gentle. "Music is here Annabeth… every day you make music, not just with an instrument or with your words. You are so brave and kind. When we first met you made this declaration to me, and I'm going to make you make it again because you seem to have forgotten your routes and promise to yourself. So you miss high school extraordinaire, listen well and write this down." He said as he gave her a notebook, one that she had no idea she'd carry with her for the rest of her life.

"Alright, I'm listening." She said as she grabbed her lucky pen and opened the first page of the notebook.

"Years ago you told me you didn't want to be just someone who followed a path set before you. You told me you wanted to be more, so be someone, to give something incredible to the world, so be something special. That every day and night, no matter what was thrown at you, you were going to take it head on." Luke spoke with the most gentle and comforting conviction that made Annabeth listen to everything he said. And the words came out as he spoke, the smile on her face grew as she looked up at him and knew at that moment she believed that she was in love with her best friend and hoped one day he'd see it, but instead of telling him that, she opted to say something else instead.

She whispered…

"Thank you Luke… for reminding me of my declaration… I won't let you down." She said softly as she closed her eyes as she wiped her eyes and dried her tears before she ran inside after Clarisse and the two settled into a busy schedule of preparing everything for the day ahead…

Later in the afternoon…

Annabeth didn't know if she was ready for this but she knew she had done everything she could to be prepared. For hours people had seen her and Clarisse locked in the largest board room, papers strewn on the table, blinds down on the glass corridor window. What they were doing had attracted the attention of many but they left Annabeth undisturbed, only when a staff member came with a cater cart with lunch meals and beverages did Annabeth realize how close it was to the time she'd proposed the meeting.

Recipients: 21 Received
From: Annabeth Chase
Location: Apollo Records, Floor 19, Boardroom 1
Date: Friday 31 October
Time: 2PM

Subject: Urgent Meeting

Dear fellow colleagues

There is an urgent meeting that your presence is requested for. It is regarding urgent matters concerning my current status of a multiple of items such my album status, my employment status at Apollo Records, but also personal matters. I heavily implore and request your attendance as it regards everyone one of the recipients of this mail. Meals and beverages are provided so please do attend. It is urgent.

With Love and Gratitude

Annabeth Chase

And as she had hoped, shortly after she lifted up the blinds and had the adorning rooms cleared since it was a private meeting. Annabeth was ready at the large table with 22 seats total for the gathering of her fitness and colleagues. Clarisse was in the corner settling her beautiful little son for his afternoon nap with her husband Chris who was here early. They had been chatting and conversing when the first person to arrive left Annabeth breathless and nervous.

Standing there in the doorway, looking so different from the person Annabeth knew was her best friend Thalia Grace who dressed in a pair of smart black trousers and a blue button up shirt with long sleeves, but there was something odd about the way Thalia walked. Neither said anything to each other as Thalia grabbed her seat at the furthest part away from Annabeth who was sitting on the short side closest to the projection screen. Following shortly behind her looking winded but smiling calming was Nicolas James Pluto aka Nico, Thalia's boyfriend. He gave Annabeth a quick hug and thanked her for including him in this meeting as he took a seat on the long side closest to Thalia who was sitting at the corner of the long table.

A few moments later Charles and Silena Beckendorf along with Silena's mother Venus walked in and gave Annabeth and Clarisse smile filled greetings before grabbing their seats. Following them was Phoebe and Zoe, the latter going to Annabeth and inquiring if everything was alright to which Annabeth responded with a calm nod and a hug. The next guest snuck in quietly and took his seat, looking much better than he had in the hospital when Annabeth saw him. Leo Valdez gave a quiet wave as he tried to sink down lower into his seat, his arm still in a sling but the plaster on head was gone leaving a minor scar.

It was a little more time before Piper McLean and her mother Aphrodite arrived and took their seats after some quiet and light greetings. Piper looked worse for wear, her sad eyes speaking volumes since she'd arrived with her mother and not Jason. The room grew a little more tense when Hazel Levesque walked in, her face looking better than when it had when Annabeth saw her in the hospital. "Apologies for being late… Hazel was delayed in her discharge from the hospital." Said the voice of Frank Zhang who walked in behind Hazel, pushing a baby pram.

Annabeth glanced at Hazel who avoided Annabeth's gaze and quietly took a seat and sat in silence, also avoiding Leo's gaze since he was sitting diagonally across from her. Frank ended up sitting directly opposite from Leo and the two avoided looking at each other. "Thank you for coming." Annabeth said to Hazel and Frank who gave a mod as they left their daughter Frankie with Chris and Clarisse who were watching over their little two year boy Christopher. The door opened and revealed a youthful Calypso Greaves who was dressed very formally in a black trousers and a blouse, her hair in a plait. She greeted Annabeth and looked round the room and quietly sighed as she nervously took the one available free seat that was next to Leo and gave him a soft smile and greeting which he hesitantly returned.

They waited quietly as the door opened and revealed the main members Annabeth was waiting for. In walking the twins, Artemis Solace was as formal and observant as ever, giving a slight reprimand at this sudden urgent meeting that was scheduled but after some reassurance from Annabeth understood as she took her seat. Apollo gave a silent greeting to Annabeth as he took his seat next to Artemis. A few minutes later Jason Grace walked in and Annabeth had to admit to herself she could see how much his own thoughts and feelings were weighing on him. He had obviously tossed and turned over attending this meeting and reluctantly took his seat in between Calypso and Phoebe, avoiding Piper's gaze who was seated opposite from her

Shortly after, Will Solace arrived and in tow was his fiancé, Bianca Di Angelo who greeted everyone and grabbed their seats, with Bianca sitting next to Thalia and Will next to his father.

"Well I believe that should be everyone. Shall we take out seers and bring this meeting to a start." Apollo said as everyone got comfortable in their seats and brought forward the small folders that had been placed in front of them courtesy of Clarisse who smiled.

"Thank you everyone for coming. I know this was last minute but it was urgent and of the utmost importance not just for myself but to all the individuals present today." Annabeth said as she bit her bottom lip and breathed. "Before you is some compiled information that pertains to the events we shall be discussing to-"

Knock knock

Annabeth frowned as she stood up, apologizing to everyone. She was certain everyone had arrived and no one without that email was allowed in the area for the meeting. She opened the door and her eyes widened in surprise, a few gasps sounding behind her as she stared at the familiar face before her. "Hey Annabeth." Said a nervous and slightly confused and awkward Percy Jackson who seemed to not be certain.

"What are you doing here?" She asked softly as Percy but his lip and handed her his phone showing the open text thread. She'd sent him a message to come. "Oh dear I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to send you that… but if you want to stay, you're welcome to… I… this isn't exactly the kind of meeting I was making it out to be… ummmm… damn I'm sorry it's so awkward right now. I had wanted to talk to you about that song so this gathering is also addressed to you in a way so I'd appreciate it if you'd stay. " She rambled nervously and like an idiot as she tried to gain the composure she had prepared for this meeting.

"It's alright… I figured it was an accident… but… I mean if I'm not intruding I'll stay." He said as Annabeth invited Percy in, closing the door behind him. "Sorry everyone, this… is Percy Jackson. Thalia, Jason and Bianca's blood cousin… and the person I was seeing as Anna…" She said as she introduced Percy to everyone.

"My apologies for intruding, it's nice to meet you all. I'm sorry for interrupting." Percy said in a nervous breath, highly intimidated by the people in the room and this situation. He didn't know if this was a mistake, staying but he still followed Annabeth to where he ended up sitting next to her as she took her seat and gave him a file as well.

"Well that is everyone." Annabeth said in a nervous voice as she took a sip of water to calm her nerves. "Anyway, it's not a secret that what happened several months ago has left scars on many of us, some more than others… but regardless of that fact, once upon a time we were a team, a family. Sadly one of those people is no longer here with us, and no matter how many mistakes he made, they weren't all his fault. Everything that happened began and ended with me and my actions." She said as she wrung her hands together.

"Several days ago I said a statement… that I was going to leave this industry and company but I was not certain if I would make an album before I left. I've thought about it long and hard and with some guidance from several individuals," She glanced at Zoe then Clarisse and finally Percy who gave a soft and encouraging smile, "I have decided that yes… I will write one final album… but it's not going to a simple task. I used to write songs because I loved music as a whole… but I didn't always love or have a connection with the music I wrote. I wrote what I felt… especially after the break up and falling out with Luke but the day I met Percy was the first time in a long time I wrote a song I loved… about a person I grew to love." Annabeth glanced at Percy who bit his lip as he listened to her speak.

"I've made my mistakes… we all have but we're all still human and the reason I called this gathering is not just because I wanted to talk about my plans for the future but because my actions hurt people, good people and broke apart a family." Annabeth said as she pressed a button on her laptop and an image appeared on the screen, one that made everyone have a small fond smile on their faces. It was a team photo they took shortly after Luke was fired. They were smiling, laughing, and they were happy…

"When I was sixteen years old and came to audition for a contract here, Luke reminded me of something I forgot along the way. And it reminds me of everyone in this room. We are our own person, we have our strengths and weaknesses, we have our own paths, but we still came together and made magic together. If I were to die tomorrow, or in a week or even in a year, I want to at least have had the honor and privilege of making magic with you all one more time." Annabeth said softly as she glanced around the room. "I've made a promise to a dying friend that I wish to keep…" She said softly as she glanced at Zoe who gave Annabeth a nod of understanding as she sighed and stood up.

"I have a confession to make." Zoe said as she reached up and pulled her wig off much to the shock of everyone in the room as she took a face wipe and removed the makeup she was wearing to reveal her pale skin. "I'm dying… short and simple. There is no cure, no length of time that can change what will inevitably happen to me. I haven't known for long but it's been hard to come to terms with the fact that I will die… but I cannot die knowing this family that I came into has been broken. No family is ever truly broken and I believe this one can be fixed. So I apologize for using Annabeth to do this but I had no other choice. This is a home and I want to see it be magic again."

Zoe took her seat once more as Annabeth stood up and pressed the button on her laptop and revealed a PowerPoint presentation of a compilation of pictures she had prepared.

"My name is Annabeth Chase and this is my family… I was sixteen years old when I found my way here by chance and choice. I am twenty five years old now, and I want to tell a story with music. Not just any music, the kind of music that I share with all of you. To share my story… this story. I can't tell it without your help… I need everyone's help… please… help me share our story." Annabeth pleaded softly as she looked at everyone in the room whose eyes were looking down at the table, uncertain and confused by this. They weren't sure what to do and it was a person they didn't expect to speak up that took the initiative to speak first above everyone else.

"No family is ever truly broken…" Percy said as he looked at everyone in this room. "Regardless of what happened, you all came here for one reason… you loved music or you came to love it after coming here." He said as he looked at Annabeth, "I've dealt with a torn apart and broken family… and if that one could be saved… this one could be too. And whilst this happened because Annabeth fell in love with me, I know it's not my fault or Annabeth's completely… love is a powerful thing and shapes the world. I loved her music for years… and some part of me still loves her." He said as he glanced at Annabeth who had tears in her eyes, "I think that's worth fighting for… so if I can help her love music and help her tell her story… then I will. I'm sorry for my part in breaking this family even if I was unaware but don't let hurt stop you from being family because tomorrow you all could be gone tomorrow. It's pointless living with regrets… don't leave here today regretting it tomorrow." Percy said softly.

Hazel stood up and took in a shaky breath, "Annabeth… I'm sorry for what I did… I'm sorry to everyone for my part in this mess. I was stupid and afraid when I should have been honest from the beginning." Hazel said with a deep conviction as tears welled in her eyes. "The truth is I myself was a coward in not being honest about what happened between Leo and myself that night, and I'm sorry Frank found out about it the way he did. He and I have spoken and we've both come to an understanding and are going to move back in together for Frankie and we are going to try a relationship again. I know I did something horrific in taking those photos Annabeth but I swear to you I never gave them to him. He broke into my home and stole them. I was going to tell you what he made me do and I'm sorry for betraying your friendship and trust. I hope you accept my apology one day and allow me the chance to help you create your magic once more." Hazel said softly as she looked at Annabeth who walked round and gave Hazel a hug.

"I know that now. I know you were trying to protect me… thank you Hazel for giving me a second chance as well." Annabeth said as she hugged Hazel tightly.

"I'm sorry I hit you that day Leo." Frank said as he looked at Leo who finally met the man's gaze. "I'm sorry for the words I said, the things I did. Since that day you took care of Hazel and Frankie and I truly am grateful. Thank you for taking care of my family. I really am sorry for hurting you." Frank said as he looked at his once friend and brother.

Leo glanced up and gave a slightly bigger smile. "I'm sorry I kissed Hazel. I was a stupid boy, not a man and took advantage of the situation. I swear it never went further than a kiss and it never went further than that. I stopped ever thinking about her that way after that day. Even today, I have no feelings for her, I love someone else." Leo said softly as he glanced at Calypso who gave him a soft smile back, reading his confession in his eyes and she reflected back. "But also… I'm sorry Jason… for abandoning you and the band when we should have stayed and talked things out." Leo implored his best friend of many eyes who was staring helplessly at the table.

"I'm sorry, Jason." Frank said in a heavier voice as he hoped his apology was going to reach his best friend.

Jason finally looked up at everyone in the room, his glasses resting in the bridge of his nose, slightly cracked in the corner of one lense, his eyes watery and red like he was trying to hold everything together. His eyes refused to meet Piper's who were equally as wet. "I don't want to make anyone feel guilty… but losing the band… it broke a part of my soul I can never get back." He said in a shaky voice. "When I was younger, in that household I was suffocating, heartbroken and alone but I couldn't show weakness. I was a fucked up kid… and I pushed everything away… Piper, my friends, Thalia… I swore when I woke up that I would never let that happen again."

Annabeth glanced over at Thalia who looked like she was going to die at that moment, like she wanted the world to swallow her up whole and make her not exist. "Jason, you know you aren't alone." Thalia mumbled softly, "We're all still here." She implored him as Jason let out a sad chuckle.

"You can only make so many mistakes before the people you love hate you." Jason said as he pulled out a ring box and showed the ring in it which made Piper look away, "I told my sister I hated her for destroying our family… I pushed her away, I started drinking, I fell into this big black hole and finally Piper had enough and left. I don't blame her, it's my own fault. I hate myself too. The things I've done and said can't ever be taken back." Tears rolled down his face as he chuckled and shook his head, "I begged the both of you… messages, voice mails… and you both left and all I wanted was my friends, my brothers back…" Jason said as he rested his hands against his head, "I've been waiting months for you to come back… so I beg you, please come back, Leo, Frank please come back." He pleaded as the tears rolled down his face.

Frank and Leo didn't even need to say a thing, they just stood up and went and hugged Jason, denying they were crying between laughs as they said yes to their friend who hugged them desperately like they were going to take back their promise. It took a moment before they regained their composure and took their seats although Jason was still crying. "Percy… I'm sorry… what I did was unforgivable and all I wanted was to tell you everyday, but it wasn't my secret to tell but I'm sorry. I should have told you… you deserved the truth about Annabeth and I'm sorry I hurt you. I hope one day you will be able to forgive me." He said softly as he looked at his cousin and Percy let out a soft breath as he thought.

"It may take some time… but I believe and know I can. You're my family." Percy said as he glanced at Thalia who was leaning her head on the table, her shoulders slightly shaking.

"I'm sorry too Piper… I-" Jason was interrupted by Piper who raised her hand and took a deep breath, trying to gain her composure.

"I know you are. I was waiting for you to finally wake up. I'm sorry I made you sink further Jason." Piper said as she stood up and reached over and took the ring box and looked at the ring, "I won't lie. It hurt breaking up with you and I confess, I dated around to try and feel like myself." Jason looked like he wanted to be sick but was holding himself together somehow, "I dated this girl Shel who made me realize that love isn't easily replaced or easy to forget. She reminded me that you weren't gone or out of reach… just lost, that you'd come back. My mom even agreed," Piper took the ring and put it on the fourth finger of her right hand, "I love you, and I still need time… I want to start again, dating, wooing, better than what you did in high school. When I'm ready, this ring will go where you put it on Valentine's day. Okay." She said with a soft smile as Jason's smile grew and he nodded.

"Thank you Piper… for giving me the second chance I know I don't deserve." Jason said grateful as Leo rubbed Jason's shoulder as he finally felt like he could breathe again.

"I'm sorry…" Thalia mumbled as she stood up and walked to the glass window and looked out the window, "I owe a lot of apologies so don't apologize to me Jason. I owe you an apology for bringing you into the mess in the first place." She said with teary eyes.

"I pushed you away Thalia. The things I said, you didn't deserve them." Jason pressed softly.

"I did. I've done and said so many things that I deserved to be punished for this." She said as she let out a shaky breath as she let the tears roll down her face. "I've always been sheltered, but I've always had these thoughts in my head that if anything went wrong, it was my fault somehow. I owe so many more apologies than we have time for. I hurt too many people… Annabeth, Percy, Jason, Nico, my family and friends… I deserve their hate but I hate myself more than their hate combined." Thalia turned round and let out a heavy breath. "Jason… I'm sorry for hurting you, for not fighting to be there for you. I was too consumed by my own self destruction and head to realize you were testing if I'd stay and fight for you or walk away from you again like I did when we were kids. I'm sorry I abandoned you again. I should have come back sooner." Thalia said with a heavy heart as tears rolled down her face.

Annabeth had always known herself, especially since finding out about what happened between Thalia, Bianca, Percy and Jason's family. She had learned that her best friend always held a lot in but she couldn't have imagined her best friend was holding this much pain in. She could hear it in her voice and whilst some of the things Thalia had said hurt her greatly, the sight of her usually tough, loudmouth best friend crying and bowing her head in a way that conveyed nothing but remorse, regret and a deep plunge pool of sorrow had Annabeth's heart catching in her throat and slowly suffocating her as she watched her oldest childhood friend breaking down in this way.

"I've been a monster honestly to people I care about." She said with a wet chuckle as she shook her head, "Fuck i guess it's time to air the dirty laundry." Thalia said as she looked up but her gaze was at Frank which shocked a few people, "Thanks for helping me find a way to punish myself. I wouldn't have coped without your help Frank." Thalia said with a gulp.

"What is she talking about Frank?" Jason asked, staring at his sister in confusion and then at his friend.

"Fighting…" Annabeth whispered as everyone turned and stared at her. "Frank needed money… so he started fighting somewhere…"

Thalia nodded, "I was drunk one night, yeah I started drinking but before anyone judges me, it was an accident the first time. I drank so heavily I ended up with alcohol poisoning. Frank had found me that night and taken me to the hospital. Told me if I needed to hurt, I needed to vent, he'd show me a place. " Thalia said with a sigh," I only took it up after Jason and I fought and I walked away. I needed to feel pain, needed to hurt and rather than self harm, I figured I'd use my fists." Thalia said as she rolled her sleeves and revealed a large number of different shade bruises. "I'm wearing makeup so you can't see the ones on my face, but yeah, I got into the ring to punish myself, because I hated myself and I was to blame, no one else, just me." Thalia said as she reached up and wiped her eyes, "It was meant to be temporary, but it became the only coping mechanism I had on top of the drinking." Thalia said as she glanced at Nico who was taking a heavy breath himself.

"I found out about it and I tried to make her stop. I thought she had been assaulted when I got a call that she ended up in the Emergency room with a dislocated shoulder." Nico said as he gripped his hands into fists. "I got tired of the woman I loved hiding from me, pushing me away and I did something I regret." Nico said as he looked at Thalia who was avoiding his gaze, "I walked out on her, left our apartment and got into an accident whilst riding home. She came to see me in the hospital, came to tell me she was sorry but I told her to leave, that I did not need her… and she left." Nico said with a sigh, "Thals, I'm sorry I walked away, especially when you needed me the most."

"You had every right to walk away, everyone who walked away from me had every right to walk away. They weren't obligated to stay." Thalia said with a shrug, "All I can say at this moment is I am sorry. I am sorry I walked away from all of you, from Jason, from Nico… from Annabeth." Thalia said as she looked at her best friend. "I swear Jason, if you forgive me, I will always be there. Nico, I swear on everything in my heart and soul that I love you unconditionally and I have stopped. The drinking, the fighting, sleeping in the hallway instead of in a bed, the pain addiction and self punishment, I will stop it all. I promise, just please stay. Please…" She pleaded weakly as her shoulders shook, "I promise I'll do better."

Nico didn't hesitate as he stood up and pulled Thalia into his arms and held her shaking form, "I won't leave you ever again. I promise Thalia. It's okay, everything will be okay." He promised. Jason came up behind and hugged his sister from behind and reassured her as well.

"Whatever help you need to get better Thalia, we will do it." Apollo said as he stood and rested a hand on her shoulder. For this moment, they weren't employees of Apollo Records. They were friends, companions, they were family.

Thalia pulled away and looked at Annabeth, "I'm sorry Annabeth…" She whispered and Annabeth looked at her best friend with a soft, teary eyed smile and moved to her friend and embraced Thalia who embraced her back as fiercely and desperately as Annabeth did.

"We will talk properly about everything. I promise." Annabeth reassured her friend as they clung to each other. Thalia nodded as she held her friend, just holding each other in the silence before Thalia pulled away and looked at Percy who was looking at his cousin with teary eyes.

"Percy words cannot express my regret and sorrow for hurting you. Words escape me because for months I've tried to figure out what to say if you give me the chance to talk to you," Thalia said as she approached her cousin as wiped her eyes, "I'm sorry Percy. I'm so sorry for everything, Percy." Thalia said as she knelt down in front of her cousin who was trembling. "Hate me, shout at me, tell me everything so I can earn the right to be a part of your life again, so that somehow I can try to earn your forgiveness, Percy."

Percy let out a shaky breath as he gripped his hands tight, "I don't know what to say, I might never know what to say Thalia. I love you and Jason but lying to me, yes, it betrayed me but I can't blame you for it because you were trying to protect me, you were trying to protect your friend, and I guess it makes it a bit easier to try to forgive you." Percy said with a shaky breath as Thalia's breath stuck in her throat as her bottom lip trembled, "You're so loyal and protective… I can't fault that. So I want to try, I need time but I want to forgive you, and I think I can do that Pinecone face, just don't try to rush me okay." Percy said with a shaky smile as Thalia all but burst into tears again and hugged her cousin who hugged her back.

Annabeth smiled, tears rolling down her face as she looked at the ceiling for a moment. It was an emotional step but in this moment, she'd extended the bridges so they can be repaired. She had offered the path to try and mend the fences of their sheltered hearts, but instead of letting everyone go back to sheltering themselves, she'd helped them knock down their walls of self isolation. She had managed to finally start bringing her family back together and it made her so happy.

"Annabeth, if I may say something." Apollo said softly as Annabeth looked at her boss and friend. "I believe we all have come to the same conclusion here… that we all want what you want. To help make magic again, not just music. I believe I speak for everyone when I say I will help you bring your story to life. All in agreement, please, do voice it."

Annabeth watched with tear filled eyes as one by one everyone stood up and gave a nod, even Calypso who gave her a wink and a thumbs up but the fact that Percy gave a nod made her heart lift out of the pit of darkness. Tears rolled down her face as she cupped her hands over her mouth. "Thank you… thank you everyone." She said as they all came and embraced her in a group hug that meant more than everyone would ever know.

For the first time Annabeth felt that beauty was coming out of ashes, that this second chance was not going to be forgotten and she was going to make the most of it.

Today was a new beginning and she wouldn't take it for granted ever.

Let's get on with this long awaited continuation of this story shall we.

Hope you enjoyed it, see you next time with the next chapter. And also damn, just short of 10k words damn hahaha, oh well this chapter is done and now its time to move on to the next chapter. See ya next time. Kudos to me since I wrote this and edited it all on mobile. Gotta run now. Love ya all.

~Michaela~