Chapter 8- War Games

"Strategy without tactics is the slowest route to victory. Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat."

Sun Tzu

Hera shimmered into Olympus after watching the child of Hephaestus's progress. She had been going under her husband's nose for many years now since Gaia had attempted to rise. She, along with a few other gods, had understood the Prophecy of Seven was slowly coming into play, one of the most dangerous prophecies that had been spoken. It was woven in such a way that only the exact right circumstances, the right shifts in time, the right pieces had to be played at the right time to ensure it worked in their way. She knew Zeus (or Jupiter) would hold her responsible for interfering but she knew that she had to, for the sake of her family. There was just too much at stake and whatever she did was warranted.

Leo Valdez had just started his journey. He was on the run in the mortal world. She wondered why the Fates had chosen him, but she knew he would play a vital part in the prophecy. The fire and the fuel of the journey. Soon, he would join his Greek brethren and learn the truth about his life.

"But till then," she thought, "keep surviving my little hero. Show me why they chose you,"

She then moved to the more pressing issue. Her father. It was finally dawning upon them. Her father, the man who kept her in that godforsaken stomach for Chaos knows how long, was attempting to rise. She finally got Jupiter to listen to reason. That itself was a large task but now for them to act. That was the next mission. She hoped her brother would convince them at the next meeting, but she could never be sure with her husband's moods.

CLANG CLANG!

Percy rolled to the side as a water spirit stuck forward before twisting his wrist and crossing his legs, meeting the next strike intended for his shoulders. Percy then raised his right leg, launching it at his lower abdomen before swinging Interitum at a downwards arc on his knees. The spirit fell on his knees before swinging his sword downwards, knocking Percy onto the floor. As Percy readied himself to defend, a sharp voice cut through

"That's enough for now," Salacia's voice rang as the water spirit bowed to her. He immediately sped off into the distance and Percy steadied himself.

"That was a good run Perseus," Salacia said as she watched Percy heal himself using the water around them. They were currently in the sea, not too far from Camp but far enough to make sure they could battle with full strength.

"Your offense is quite well made, but you need practise on your defence. As I am sure you remember from your battle just recently," she spoke and Percy rubbed the lower half of his ribs. The damn titan had really laid a hard attack with sword there.

"When someone is aiming for your legs as an under-swipe attack, you have to either dodge it or deflect it. Dodging would be preferable considering you don't use a spear so your blade isn't long enough. What I'd suggest is using their body to your advantage. When they try to arc on your legs, throw your sword forward, use your right hand and push against their shoulders, which should disrupt their hand movement and use the weight to flip over them. If done perfectly, you should be able to launch yourself over them, dodging the attack, catching your sword and being able to counterattack," Salacia explained. She summoned some length of water and formed it into a dummy crouching downwards, gesturing for Percy to try.

Percy got into stance and attempted to do what she had told him. It took him quite a few tries before understanding the rhythm of the technique.

"You're grasping it, after a bit more practise, it should be second nature to you," Salacia told him as he sat down, catching his breath.

"I think that's enough for now. Now for your divine training," Salacia said as Percy's sword shimmered back into a ring.

"We'll work on your water training for now. You still need more understanding on your base powers before attempting to improve your storm and earth abilities. But no worries, those powers will coincide with what we're doing today so this should still prove useful," Salacia explained to him as he nodded.

"Now tell me Percy, have you ever tried using water in different forms?" Salacia asked her champion who's face furrowed in confusion

"What do you mean?" Percy asked

"I mean have you ever tried using the water in different states. Such as ice or vapour?"

Percy eyes widened as he heard what she said. The kind of concentration needed for that was immense and he wasn't entirely sure he could do that. Regardless, he knew he needed to learn it if Salacia was asking him.

"Not really. But I do know that it requires a lot of energy and concentration," Percy told her.
"And I suspect I probably won't be able to do that till I'm older,"

Salacia smiled and shook her head.

"That's what you demigods think. You need to understand how limitations work Perseus. Most demigods grow more powerful as they get older because their body start maturing allowing for them to stand more capacity in their divine blood. But have these half bloods ever tried continuous training with their divine blood?" Salacia asked to which Percy thought about it for a moment.

"Think of your divine abilities as a muscle. As you grow older, so do your muscles over time. But if you train them continuously, even at a young age, they grow more powerful. The same applies for your divine abilities. If you keep practising them continuously, you'll be able to perform those feats at a younger age. I won't deny, it'll be hard and it'll take patience but it will also pay off," Salacia told him as he nodded, his face formed in determination.

"What do I need to do?" Percy asked his stepmom

"Right now, we're in the sea so it should help energise you. I want you to focus. I want you to really feel the sea around you. Connect to the water, feel the vibrations around the sea, the rocking of the waves. Feel your senses extend across the water," Salacia instructed him as he closed his eyes in concentration. He could feel the power of the sea, wild and strong. The water connecting to his mind, responding to his thoughts, ready to obey him. He could feel the small waves flowing through, the water circulating around him, extending his own senses like a third eye. Salacia noticed this and continued.

"Now concentrate on the water in its base form. Feel it in its purest form, the very structure that makes up the water as it is shown,"

Percy concentrated. He could feel his strength slowly starting to heave, his head creasing with sweat and his legs tensing but he held himself.

"Now attempt to change it,"

Percy tried and immediately the earth around them shook. He collapsed immediately, his strength fading instantly as fell onto the base of the sea. Salacia rushed to him, summoning some nectar for him to drink as he recovered his strength. His vision had blurred slightly but it started clearing up within minutes.

"That…was…something," Percy spoke in between breaths. Salacia shook her head in amusement as she gave her champion some time to recover.

"Why did the earth shake?" Percy questioned

"Your powers as the earth shaker are similar to your water powers. Both of them rely on vibrations and disrupting them to bend to your will. I think subconsciously you remembered what it was like to cause earthquakes due to your little quest."

Percy nodded in understanding as he checked his watch for the time. It was evening. Tonight was war games and he wanted to rest up. Salacia glanced at his watch before speaking.

"I think that's enough for today. I'll let you know of our next lesson. Well done on today. You've made good progress," Salacia told him as she waved at him. The water picked up around her as she disappeared within a few seconds. Percy stayed there for a few more minutes to recover before shooting off towards Camp Jupiter.

Percy, despite the stoic look on his face, was thoroughly excited throughout dinner. He had finally been inducted into the legion and in about 15 minutes, he was going to participate in his first war games. He was finally going to show everyone that the Fifth Cohort was capable of winning and he was going to make sure they claimed victory.

Up ahead, the Praetors were preparing for the war games. They both had shared a glance, knowing that the war game was going to be a different one. The son of Neptune was going to participate. If Cassie was honest, she didn't know what to think of Percy. At age 12, a bit childish at times but a formidable warrior nonetheless. Trained with Lupa since the age of 4 and managed to hold his own against a Titan and help his patron give the finishing blow. She had to admit, she was slightly unnerved by him. If it wasn't for his slight shyness yet eagerness to prove himself as a good warrior, she would've doubted his loyalties but she knew that was just her paranoia. He had been raised by Lupa. There wouldn't be someone more loyal to Rome than Percy. Still something about him intrigued her. Given the opportunity, he'd certainly surpass many legendary warriors and rise above, well, all the legionnaires of Rome along with Jason. David appeared to be in slight awe of Percy. Despite not showing it, she knew her boyfriend had taken a good interest in Percy and was fascinated by what his capabilities were. Well, they were about to witness it first-hand tonight.

Percy gathered himself as they began getting ready for the match. His mind wondered off to the conversation he had with Mother Lupa earlier

Percy was walking through the forest towards the Wolf House. He knew where Lupa normally resided and since he had the day off, he decided to visit her quickly. As he walked through, his senses extended. The wild was a familiar area to him now and he could hone his senses for miles here. There were 2 wolves lurking on the edges, he could hear the slight prodding of footsteps. Lupa had taught him to use his body as the ultimate weapon, his ears sharp, his eyes clear and his mind always ready. He knew they were watching him.

As he walked forward, he could see 2 figures ahead. 2 wolves. They snarled at him quietly as he held his ground. The first thing when encountering a wolf, stand your ground. They respect bravery and strength. One of them stepped forward, sniffed him before realising who it was. After all, nearly all the wolves here knew him, being raised alongside them. He met their eyes, his own eyes steeling with coldness as they recognised the half blood. The wolves parted and walked off and Percy walked on.

Finally, he reached the wolf house. On the rock stood the she wolf, her dark grey coat reflecting across his eyes, her silver eyes reflecting the light of the moon. Her mouth forming into a slight smile as Percy walked to her.

"I am glad to see you have succeeded my young destroyer," she spoke to which Percy nodded. In front of Lupa, he felt comfortable to be himself. It was weird but, in a way, after living with her, he felt as though he could let down his mental barriers.
"You have prevailed for now. But your true test will come soon. But I suspect you have a few questions you wish to ask me?" Lupa asked knowing that he was starting to understand the direty of what was happening.

"What is this so-called prophecy about me? Everyone has been hinting about it, telling me there's greatness ahead of me, but also tragedy. What is the prophecy? What is in store for me?" Percy asked with a frown. Lupa sighed. It was inevitable that Percy find out and she couldn't hold it for much longer.

"I do not know the full details fully myself my pup, but from what I know, this era seems to be one of the most dangerous. There are risings, of beings and spirits that haven't been seen since the beginning of this age. It appears to be a new tiding where old enemies are awakening. As you already know of the titans rising, there are other things that have grabbed the attention of the gods. The prophecy wasn't clear, but there would be half-bloods that would wake to meet the challenge because fate demands them to do so. It is very likely you are one of those half-bloods. A child of your father is very rare as you know and generally, as seen in the past, are victim to large portions of change in the godly world. Now the fates have brought you in as a challenge to these tidings. One can only assume, that you, Jason and a few others are a part to play against this and that it may be your responsibility to help bring peace to Olympus once again. Why do you think the gods are taking more part in your destiny Percy? Salacia, Juno, Vesta, even Jupiter, have taken an interest in you," Lupa told him as he was lost in thought.

"If not guided properly, you could be a dangerous piece. That's why there are certain few that are wary of you," Lupa continued

"Why not just let me die then?" Percy asked curiously

"While some believe that'd be the easy way out, they fear of offending Neptune. Should he be angered, regardless of what the Olympians say, they'd be in deep trouble. And many of the gods are intrigued. They believe that you could prove useful. You have been trained well. You could be a valuable asset to them, to bring those monsters to bay and usher peace once again," Lupa explained.

Needless to say, that was a lot to take in for Percy. He hid it well, but he was slightly nervous and angry. An entire burden put onto him just because it was willed. He looked at Lupa whose eyes narrowed. No doubt she could sense him emotions. To her, she could practically sniff out his feelings.

"Life isn't fair pup. You know that better than others," she said in a hard voice. Percy nodded as she looked at him with slight sympathy.

"But you don't have to carry this burden alone. There is a legion for a reason. There are people who will fight alongside you Percy. You just need to trust in them," she told him as she observed him. Percy nodded; his eyes still slightly glazed but slightly reassured.

"Now go on pup. We'll talk later I promise. But for now, I have elsewhere to be,"

Percy's thoughts were cut as he heard Jason calling for him.

"You ready for your first game?" Jason asked him as he had a slight smile on his face. Jason noticed this. He told Dakota he would be back in a moment before grabbing Percy by the shoulder towards a corner, surprising him.

Once they were slightly secluded, Jason turned to his cousin

"Alright what's up?" Jason asked and as Percy opened his mouth, he was cut off
"And don't say it's nothing. I know you well enough to see something is bothering you," Jason said looking at Percy with concern. Percy was quiet for a moment before his shoulders slumped, a sigh coming from his mouth before telling him what Lupa had told him and what he had learnt about their future from the Nereid. Jason was quiet for a few moments before turning to his cousin.

"Ok. There's a prophecy about us. We have to fight off some evil. Percy, as you said, that's the life of a demigod. And something you need to understand is you're no longer alone. I know you like to play the lone wolf, but this prophecy, it says demigods, not demigod. Me, along with others, are all here to help you. To work together. You aren't alone in this bro. So, stop worrying that you'll fail. You won't fail, none of us will. All of us will make it through and protect each other," Jason told him in a firm voice. Percy listened to what Jason said as a small grin appeared on his face, almost as though some weight had been taken of his shoulders.

"Thanks Jason," Percy said as Jason gestured for them to walk back.

The match was the first three cohorts against the Fourth and Fifth. Percy heard a lot of snickers from them, some people saying it was an easy win for them. He frowned at that. He swore silently that he'd ensure their victory today.

He watched as his fellow legionnaires began building a fortress as their defence. Percy realised something. While their opposition had more cohorts, they had the advantage of surprise. The opposing teams were located on a slightly rocky side of the land, meaning that if attacked properly, their structure could be destabilised and crush their defence. But then Percy frowned. He knew how the First Cohort worked. They would have back up teams kept at the back for emergency and they would be able to provide assistance at a moments notice. In the distance he could see archers that were ready to shoot along with some cannons.

Suddenly Percy remembered something. Lupa had made him memorise the structure of Camp Jupiter, including the tunnels underneath. And he had access to a son of Jupiter. He ran to Julia who was preparing their cohort for march as they readied to attack but he stopped her

"Percy what are you doing here? You should be in your formation?" Julia asked him.

"I have an idea. Our opponents are located on a slightly rocky land which gives us an advantage. Or me specifically. I can use the old tunnels underneath, using the river as a navigation beacon. If I can get across undetected, I can use my powers to destabilise it giving you the opportunity to attack. Also, we have Hannibal. He could lead the charge allowing you to attack upfront," Percy told her. He could see Julia in thought as she pondered over what Percy said

"But what about the frontal guards. There's most likely going to be 3 to 4 people at the front of their defences relaying signals to their cohort," Julia asked Percy. Percy thought about it for a moment before remembering the water cannons.

"That won't be an issue. There are water cannons which I can use to my advantage," Percy explained. Julia thought about it for a moment. The plan was quite risky, it completely relied on Percy being successful at the start. But then again, this plan was different to what they normally did. And their normal tactics didn't really get them victory. And plus, this was coming from a kid who managed to last against a titan for a few minutes at a young age. She had access to two children of the Big Three. She would be a fool to not use the advantage. She turned to Percy and nodded.

"Very well. I don't see why not. None of our usual plans work out and hopefully this one will. I'm counting on you Percy," Julia told him as she walked off to relay new orders.

Percy looked around for the son of Jupiter and motioned for him to come. He explained the strategy he had come up with.

"Ok so what do you need me to do?" Jason asked

"When I break their defences, the First Cohort's back up team will try to deflect us with their numbers and they have cannons and archers at their disposal on both sides. I need you to summon lightning and strike it at their back right structure. I'll do the same for the left one. If struck with enough power, they'll lose their water cannons and aerial support for the archers and hopefully the destruction should hold off the foot soldiers on their back up, giving us the advantage to take down the rest," Percy explained as Jason looked at him slightly impressed at the plan he came up with at quick speed.

Percy immediately found one of the cracks to the tunnel and walked through. He could feel the river above him, almost acting as a compass for him as he walked through. He walked on for a few minutes before he felt the river slightly diverge, signalling he was near. He looked around for a moment before seeing the shine of the moon from the side. He walked through and found himself in a clearing. He could see the First and Second Cohort in the distance, readying themselves to charge. He needed to act quick.

He quickly identified the 4 guards at the front. He summoned Turbulence, took a deep breath before aiming it at the furthest guard. He used a normal steel arrow to not injure him too hard. It flew through, hitting his helmet with enough force to knock him out. He did the same to the 3rd guard before cursing himself. The second guard saw him crumple and walked cautiously towards his friend. Percy acted quick. He looked at one of the water cannons and reached his arms out. The water inside obeyed, flowing out of the cannons, forming into a ball just levitating next to him, following him. Percy dashed to the first guard, summoning Shadow Crown and throwing it with quick speed as the guy noticed him. The dagger hit his shoulder and Percy launched himself, using the side of his palm to hit him on the skull and using his legs to kick him down, knocking him out cold on the floor. He saw the second guard rushing towards him and he narrowed his eyes, a lupine grin forming on his face. He dashed his arms out forward, almost like jabbing the air. The ball of water responded immediately, flying at a quick pace, hitting him directly in the chest. Percy grabbed his dagger and pounced and used the hilt to hit him, as the guy groaned in pain, clearly unable to do much.

Percy ran to the middle of the structure before closing his eyes in concentration. Immediately the earth responded; he could feel the vibrations of the earth, slowly thumping across in small bounces. He stomped his foot and immediately the ground roared in response, the pillars crumbling with more than enough force. He could hear the surprised cries of the Second Cohort and Percy reacted quickly

Up above he could see a large cloud forming, signalling that Jason was readying a bolt. Percy drank a few sips of nectar from his flask and concentrated. He could feel the clouds responding to him. They sky above darkened, responding to both children of the big three, commanders of the storms. Percy could feel electricity crackling of his skins and the usual smell of ozone and taste of metal formed. Percy focused more intensely. He needed to summon a bolt more powerful than usual. Immediately, small sparks started to emerge from him skin, shooting the earth around him as the skies darkened even more dangerously.

Some of the archers noticed this as they shouted in fear but it was too late. As though rehearsed, both Percy and Jason tugged and a split second later, the sky obeyed, a large clap of thunder shook through Camp Jupiter and two divine bolts of lightning shot from the heavens simultaneously, one larger than the other, but still hitting their targets with the force of an artillery shell. All of Percy's hair stood on their end as a large ringing sound pierced through the air followed by the sound of pillars and bricks breaking and the sound of shock from people.

Percy felt his breathing become laboured as he collapsed to the ground, his body soaked in sweat, clearly extremely tired from what his display of power. He remembered what Salacia had told him about his abilities and their toll and hoped that his Cohort would reach in time.

Julia watched as Jason closed his eyes in concentration, his forehead creasing followed by two bangs of lightning. She looked in shock and awe as they managed to completely destroy the back hands of the First Cohort and noticed Jason was breathing slowly as Dakota supported him.

"Go to Percy quickly. I'm sure he needs assistance after what he has just displayed. We'll catch up with you in a moment," Julia told Jason.

Jason held onto Dakota as he summoned the winds, both of them shooting off into the sky towards Percy.
She looked to her soldiers before shouting her commands. Immediately they locked into formation and marched on forward quickly

Jason shot across the field as he singled out Percy, sitting on the floor, clearly drenched in sweat and tired on the ground. He angled downwards, reaching towards Percy. Dakota immediately took out a block of ambrosia and fed it to Percy as he recovered quickly. Jason handed him a bottle of water which Percy drank and poured on himself. Dakota then looked ahead to see a group of 5 to 8 people rushing towards them. He readied his sword but found out he didn't need to.

Jason saw them and smirked.

Bring it boys

He looked to the sky and called it immediately. The sky darkened again slightly, and Jason shot his hand forward punching the air, a gust of wind following his movements hitting a few of them with enough force to push them back. He shot his hand upwards and a bolt of lightning came down again, not as large as his first one, but still powerful enough to knock them several yards back.

"Nice shot cuz," he heard behind him as he smirked at Percy
"Thought I should introduce myself to them huh," Jason replied as he took a sip of nectar.

Behind them the roar of an elephant came through as the Fourth and Fifth Cohort charged through. A roar of cheering came across as they began to fight through, taking down those who tried to challenge them.

Percy grinned as he saw this. He had recovered enough to be able to fight alongside. He tapped his ring, his trusty sword shimmering into existence and Jason flipped his coin, a lance forming. Dakota took a swig of his Kool-Aid before taking his sword out of his sheath. Together, those three joined their Cohort but found that they were splitting into small groups to take out the others.

Percy grinned as he saw 3 members of the Second Cohort rushing towards him and Dakota. He took his stance before rushing forward with Dakota to meet their strikes. Dakota managed to duck for a swipe aimed at him before rolling to the side, hitting him in the ribs and kicking him in the back before striking ahead, hitting him directly into the floor. Percy pounced to the left but at the very last second, tensed his left leg, knocking into the guy in the middle and kneeing him in the stomach before elbowing the guy on his left.

"Nice try dude," Percy said as he hit him in shoulder. His eyes tensed as he saw a downward hit aiming for his legs. Salacia's words rang through his head at their training session earlier. Almost on pure reflex, he threw his sword above, pushed his hands on his shoulders, launching above his opponent and catching his sword in a split second. He rotated his legs before launching a kick to his face, knocking him out cold. Percy grinned to himself. He managed to do it. He hoped Salacia had seen it and was proud of him.

He looked behind to see Dakota looking at him, slightly impressed as they both marched on.

Jason rolled to the side, ducked underneath a spear aimed for him as Gwen jumped over him, hitting Octavian in the nose as he lunged from underneath hitting Michael in the face and landed behind him. He immediately turned around, and thankfully for the long range of his lance, managed to deflect the blade aimed for him by Michael. Jason kicked him in the chest with enough force as Gwen swept under his feet, knocking Michael to the floor.

Jason looked ahead as a smile came on his face. Reyna stood just a short distance from him. He was looking forward to this fight. Behind him Gwen stood, ready to back him but Jason spoke first

"Leave her to me," Gwen raised an eyebrow before smirking and dashing off.

Reyna ran towards him her sword forming in her hand. Jason retracted his lance and flipped his coin again, a gladius shimmering and ran towards her. They met in between as their blades met with a loud clang. The smell of static electricity formed between them as they charged against each other, both of them moving at very quick speeds, each strike being met by another as both of them swept around each other swiftly, trying to gain the advantage. Jason used a technique Percy had taught him, baiting Reyna to the left before striking to the right, hitting her in her ribs. Reyna grunted before her elbow shot out at his head and she used her other hand to hit him in the shoulder

As quick as light, she rolled underneath him, hitting him in the chin before getting up. Jason immediately responded, using the side of his palm to hit her in the chin and struck his leg out, hitting her directly in the shin and using his gladius for an under swipe knocking her. Without missing a beat, Reyna, with incredible strength, used her hands to push her body upwards, grabbing Jason with her legs by surprise and knocked him to the floor, using her head to hit him in the shoulders.

Jason landed onto the floor with a groan. Remembering the wrestling he had with wolves when he was younger, he brought his legs into his chest before jumping upwards into Reyna, surprising her. Jason brings out his gladius as Reyna is forced into defence but was slightly disorientated. Jason feinted for a left but since Reyna was dazed, she fell for it. Jason immediately bucked to the right, hit her with enough force and she fell to the ground, a gold gladius aimed at her throat

"Yield?" he asked

"Yield," she grumbled but smiled at him. Jason was impressed. Reyna had definitely given him a good fight. Had it not been for the fact that Jason had trained for far longer, he had a feeling that the match would've ended differently. With a bit more time and training, he had no doubt that Reyna would surpass many of the officers. He yelped as he fell to the ground. He looked at Reyna who had an innocent look on her face as she looked at the sky. He glared at her as she gave him a smug smile before both of them started laughing.

Percy raced across the field, Julia, Dakota, Jake (Princeps Posterior), Leila (a girl from the Fourth Cohort who Percy had become friends with recently) raced across the field towards where the banner was kept. Right behind them, Hannibal lumbered across, with Gwen on top of him as they covered for their team. Percy encountered a few people who tried to stop them but Percy struck forward, deflecting a hit as both of them tried to overpower each other by their swords. Percy managed to emerge victorious but then saw a dagger aimed for him as he side stepped and brought his sword downwards, knocking him downwards. Another person went for him but Leila intervened, her sword managing to knock him as she punched him in the face. Jake, Julia and Dakota jumped over them as Dakota disposed of the last person, grabbed the banner and threw it to Jake, who caught the banner and threw to Julia. Julia threw it to Gwen and Hannibal turned around, running across the field back to their side as the other 5 raced behind them. Jake roared to his cohort as they all scrambled to cover Gwen as they raced across. Some people tried to intercept them but behind them, water cannons erupted, stopping them in their tracks. Cheers erupted throughout the battlefield as Gwen crossed the line, signalling their victory.

From above, Cassie's voice rang

"The game is won! Assemble for honours!"

Slowly, everyone grouped at the Field of Mars, some wrapped in bandages, some with black eyes and some drenched in water. Percy had been very active. There were others who had smoke around them. Clearly Jason had been as well.

"The game goes to the Fourth and Fifth as they successfully managed to charge through and retrieve the banners!" David addressed the legion. There was a round of applause across the field as people were slowly treated for.

David was about to continue before a hand raised from Centurion Jake Smith

"Yes Centurion?" Cassie asked

"Praetors. I have something to announce. This victory would not be possible if not for a certain individual. As we were readying ourselves to march across, I had received new orders from Centurion Queen who asked me to wait and halt on our charge for a few moments. She told me that a certain legionnaire was going in alone to disable the defences of our opponents by his lonesome to give us a window of opportunity. At first, I was slightly wary of this plan, because it strayed from our usual tactics and was completely dependent on one person but to my amazement, it worked perfectly. This one person managed to take on 4 guards and create an opening for us to charge through their defences and win us the victory of this match and as a Roman, I believe that this soldier should get the recognition he deserves else It isn't fair," Jake addressed the legion and pausing for a moment

"The person who I am talking about is Perseus Jackson of the Fifth Cohort, the son of Neptune, who singlehandedly infiltrated and destroyed the defences of the first three Cohorts and I propose that as a recognition for his bravery and smart thinking that he is given the award of a Mural Crown," Jake spoke loudly across the field. There was silence for a moment before some complaints were shouted but were immediately drowned by cheering and applause in agreement. Jason looked to see Percy's face which was wide eyed and filled with shock, his mouth slightly open. He grinned at his cousin's expression. Percy deserved the award.

Jason looked at Octavian, whose face was purple with rage and he snickered quietly to himself. Percy getting an award right after being inducted to the legion was a blow to him.

Percy stepped forward as David handed Cassie the Mural Crown who pinned it to Percy's chest.

Percy walked back towards Jason and Julia who looked at him with a smile, pride shining through Julia's eyes.

"Well done kido. You earned it," she told him with her hands on his shoulders. He stiffened for a moment before relaxing as he responded to her with a smile on his face. He looked at Jason before giving him a bro hug as Jason grinned at him after getting over his shock.

"Smart play there," He told him
"Just glad it worked," Percy responded as people started heading back in, Percy and Jason followed Julia back to their Cohort

Author's Note: Whew! 6101 words. A pretty good chapter if I may say so myself. So this chapter was mainly based on War Games. SOrry if it wasn't too interesting, I just really wanted to post this chapter. Also you can see Percy is slowly learning to interact with others. After all, he's been raised in the Wild for almost 8 years so interacting with people is still a new thing for him and he's trying to adjust, which is why he gets a bit defensive when people touch him but now he's getting used to it and it learning to mingle with people normally. Also, because Percy is Roman, he has slightly more discipline in him, so I plan on making him more powerful as time goes on compared to the actual PJO series and show how he uses his abilities in normal combat against monsters.

Also lastly, just so people reading this can understand, I'm planning to make this into a proper long story. So, unlike other Roman Percy stories, there's not going to be large time gaps in between chapters. I am planning to give Percy a full story so around 3-4 proper quests, really show how Percy grows up in Camp Jupiter and how he fights against the Titans. I know it may make the fanfic a bit long and some people might get bored at points but I wanted to be one of the few who wrote an entire story on Roman Percy.

Also I am happy to see more people taking an interest in Percabeth to a point that it rivals Preyna and might even surpass.

Thanks to ashblaze03, ShadowThanatos, Hail Hydra (love the name lmao), RageSage, aDarkKindOfCalm, HumbleZeus, JoJo Jesus and LondWolf229 for reviewing. I know I've said this a lot but reviews do mean a lot to me, because it helps making me a better writer and encourages me to write more knowing the people are enjoying my story so if people take the time to review then it is really appreciated!

A few responses to your Reviews:

LoneWolf229: Yes I know my character descriptions are somewhat similar to Rick's in terms of the Gods but I just want to capture their appearance as accurately as possible. Also I presented Neptune in battle armour rather than regular clothes to show his Roman Side along with a crown. Hope it doesn't affect too much.
Also yes I do mention every one who reviews in my story just as a word of gratitude. Thanks for reviewing and hope you enjoyed the chapter.

JoJo Jesus: Yes that was a typing error. I meant Preyna, my bad lol. Thanks for reviewing still :)

aDarkKindOfCalm: Hopefully, and most probably, it'll be a percabeth.

Hail Hydra: Yes I do plan for Percy to get Battle Armour. Maybe from Vesta, that's not a bad idea. Also just a little spoiler, Vesta and Juno will both be taking a slight role in Percy's life. People may be surprised as to Juno but just wait, there's a good reason and it's a pretty interesting one

ashblaze03: If by Percy centric you mean completely centered around Percy, then no. Obviously Percy is the main character here but I do plan to have other perspectives from other characters, including gods and goddesses.

I am quite sorry if there questions which I missed from others. If you just ask them again, then I'll respond to them in the next chapter. Or if you're in my discord server, then you can ask me something there at any time and I'll respond as soon as possible.

Hope you all enjoyed the chapter

Discord Server: VUMM3Sb

Enjoy the Chapter

That's all from me for now

SpiritsOfTheWorld