A/N: I realize this chapter starts off kind of slow, but I promise, when things pick up (and it will sooner than you think), everything's going to get crazy real fast. But first, I must introduce you to this dystopian, fantasy world and its characters before I can really delve into the heart of the plot, which is why I'm starting this chapter off with our core female protagonists :)

I also just want to warn you because this plot is much, much more ambitious than anything I've ever tried before: I'll make my fair share of mistakes, despite my meticulous note-taking to avoid any mistakes, so if you ever see anything incorrect, never hesitate to correct me via PM or in the reviews. The reviewers who did that for my last story, constantly questioning the morals, motives, and ethics of my story and its characters, as well as my basic writing/plotting skills, remain close to my heart; they have helped me grow as both a writer and a person- something for which I am forever grateful.

Additionally, if you ever get confused by anything, I know I've included a crash course two chapters before this, but always feel free to ask questions. :)

Disclaimer: All rights to Rick Riordan, whose characters I'm borrowing for the sake of storytelling, and all rights to Victoria Aveyard, whose Red Queen series inspired me to create my own story. Additionally, all rights to Cassandra Clare (my all-time-favorite YA writer), who often inspires certain scenes and/or witty one-liners. Not every chapter will include her brilliant effect on me, but I'd just like to give her some credit before I even begin to write.

Annabeth

"But Princess-" the boy with golden sunshine locks of hair and lightning blue eyes attempted to keep up with her long, defiant strides; though lean and elegant, she was not taller than him as the way she carried herself may have one believe. Even at the disadvantage, her footsteps were purposeful and lengthy as she paraded through the stone corridors. Yet, she made no sound, just as she'd been taught to act like royalty, her haughty demeanor and frizzy curls the only things defying her etiquette classes. The steel-eyed young woman could only sneer, imagining what Madame Reme would say, had she seen Annabeth flouncing about through the castle.

A lady must not stomp, Your Highness. She would have wrinkled her nose as if she had caught a whiff of something horrid, something akin to swamp water or the poorer sides of the kingdom. One does not desire to draw such attention to oneself. We are not trolls, Your Highness, she surely would have chastised. Delicate, nimble, light steps. Princesses should be seen, not heard. And your hair, dear lord. How many times must I remind you to tame that wild hair, at the very least wrapping it tightly in a bun to keep those wretched curls from springing out?

Annabeth, of course, thought that was a whole load of horse shit. Seen not heard, her ass. If anything, this princess would be seen and heard, oh she'd show them all. And as for her hair, she quite liked it. Annabeth sniffed, turning her nose up in the air; her hair was wild and untamable, much like her.

"Princess!" her guard's calls snapped the blonde out of visions to stick it to the patriarchy. "The Queen will have a hissy fit if you don't calm down," he tried to reason with her, to no avail.

"The Queen's been off her rocker since she sat on that throne," Annabeth hissed. "You damn well know that, Jason."

The young man couldn't help but crack a smile at that, his eyes lighting up with mirth, and the small scar running along the curve of his lip morphing with his charming and toothy grin. "I can neither confirm nor deny that statement, Your Highness," Jason chuckled, refusing to give in and accept that she was right, as she always was, but also too exhausted to chide her for the disrespectful words. Though he was her bodyguard, supposedly serving no purpose other than her protector, Annabeth had grown close with him and if held at gunpoint, she might have even admitted that she thought of him as a friend, another brother, rather than just some muscle. Besides, Annabeth had found that she could raise hell all by herself. "But in all seriousness, I would advise going back to the throne room," Jason cocked a perfect blond eyebrow at her. "Storming out because the council refused to listen to your ideas, simply because you're young, only makes you appear more childish," he spoke truthfully.

Annabeth, blinded by her hubris, refused to acknowledge the last comment, knowing full well that he was right. Like hell she'd give him the satisfaction of admitting so.

"Shut up," she delivered her classic line flawlessly, effectively causing Jason to fall silent as he followed behind her, diligently escorting her to her next destination. His palm rested on the hilt of his sword easily, his gaze never veering from the princess. Annabeth strode down various stone corridors, all similar in color, shape, and size, not to mention, all drafty and cool. She turned a sharp corner, stopping before a large set of dark, wooden French doors, complete with winking rubies embedded in the heavy, golden-hoop handles. Pushing her small frame against the weight, she swung the doors open. Her shoulders immediately fell, relaxing as if on their own accord. Something about the musty scent of the papers buried for centuries mixed with the rich pine fragrance of wood comforted her like nothing else. Or perhaps it was simply because when she wasn't spending her time running around the castle and starting trouble, she stayed holed up like the bookworm she was, learning as much as she could, as much as her brain would allow before it exploded.

She'd always felt something that resembled disappointment when she thought of all the books in the world, of all the knowledge she would never learn. Surely, she would run out of time before she could acquire it all, effectively becoming the most powerful person in the universe. Still, she cherished the library and nothing else held a candle to her love of learning. Annabeth had always taken pride in the knowledge that this library, it was the biggest out of all the kingdoms with the largest selection of archives. To everyone else in her family, the library might as well have been Annabeth's, and hers alone. Though they occasionally referred to it for the unusual fact or two, they would never understand Annabeth's love for it. Not even Malcolm, not even her big brother, whom Annabeth loved dearly, holding close to heart- closer even than Frederick, the beloved King, and Athena, the graceful Queen, notorious for her elegance and eloquence.

Jason was momentarily forgotten by Annabeth as he slipped into the shadows like usual, close if she was in trouble, but not hovering over her to the point where it was uncomfortable. Annabeth hardly noticed, surrounded by her lifelong friends instead. She sat at her desk, sweeping her pineapple yellow dress neatly under her. She was fairly certain that Athena would call Madame Reme immediately for extra lady classes if Annabeth was not seated elegantly, and Annabeth would do almost anything to avoid more of those wretched sessions.

The blonde discreetly itched her wrist in frustration. The frock was irritating her skin, with its lacy trim and stiff material. Still, the Queen insisted that Annabeth always look her best, even at the price of her own comfort. Additionally, Annabeth had found that though it kept her spine straight, corsets were very much restricting, especially when she needed to slap a fool or two. Frowning, the blonde recalled Athena's forceful efforts to tame her stubborn, curly hair. However, her attention was immediately diverted when her gaze landed on the fat book in front of her, thicker with random loose-leaf pages inserted throughout.

Much to Annabeth's curiosity and suspicion, Athena had informed her only an hour ago that there would be a royal ball that very night. And what's more, the royals were coming! The Kings, Queens, Princes, Princesses, Dukes, and Duchesses of the surrounding countries would be there in their castle that evening.

Annabeth had decided long ago that she wasn't particularly fond of any of them. Some were ridiculously egotistic and others had more money than sense, in her opinion. Some were quite patronizing and others found every opportunity to display their immense wealth, much to Annabeth's annoyance. Some continuously used malapropisms, effectively trying and failing to impress her with all her linguistic knowledge, and finally, many were just downright foolish; Annabeth had no tolerance for sheer ignorance and stupidity.

However, Annabeth was nothing if not prepared. She had decided right there and then, standing in front of Athena, that the rest of her afternoon would be dedicated to research. She had yet to brush up on her knowledge of the kingdoms and rulers. Annabeth refused to be caught at a disadvantage. In fact, it was often the other way round, so much so that her companions typically found themselves flushing from embarrassment- something for which her mother admonished her. Athena rarely threw spontaneous balls, and what's more, Annabeth was always the first to know. Surely, Athena was up to something and Annabeth intended to find out. Annabeth was an expert strategist herself and she full well knew Athena was no different: like mother, like daughter. Their resemblance, though not physical save the eyes, was uncanny.

"It is vital, Annabeth, to make a good impression on House Calbourne. And you, Malcolm, you must do the same for House Pevanshire."

Annabeth scowled at the memory. What was the Queen's game? Calbourne? Pevanshire? The rulers of Thasite and Jirot, respectfully? They were royals of neighboring countries and rarely did they ever speak. Instead, these balls were held for the high houses in their own country of Ashington, the houses that served in the royal council along King Frederick, and the rich houses whose children had married into other countries' royalty. To put all these leaders in one room, albeit a grand ballroom that would more than provide enough space… it was sure to be a bloodbath. So much bad blood, so much history. Many had been on the brink of war at some point, actually in war, or feuded/still were feuding.

Was Athena purposefully trying to have them all tear each other apart? On one hand, Annabeth could see how that could be smart. Let them tear each other apart, and then, House Ashington, her house, could sweep up the broken glass and take over it all. Annabeth's irises darkened. She had never been wildly fascinated with acquiring more power, not like most of the wealthy and royal, but she could certainly how it would appease to the Queen.

However, there was a small flaw in Annabeth's theory regarding Athena's sudden plans for a ball: Ashington, though not in an outright feud, was also involved, especially with House Calbourne. The King of Thasite and possibly the most notable figure of House Calbourne, King Poseidon himself, had always found himself in nasty arguments with the Queen of Epresh, Athena of House Ashington. Annabeth had always found a little childish, but she loved her family more than anything else- even power- and she would loyally remain by Athena's side for all of eternity if need be. It would be torture to be kind to the Calbournes, but she need she must. Athena herself had demanded her to be cordial.

Nonetheless, this only added to Annabeth's confusion. If her family was involved as well, they couldn't stand by and watch the other countries tear each other apart like power-hungry wolves. It didn't make any sense, meaning that this endeavor of Athena's there was no way it was a power-driven motive.

Still, Annabeth couldn't fight the sinking feeling in the pit of her stomach. Athena was very political (though she was much quieter about it than her daughter), and everything she did, it was always, always a cold, calculated move intended to grant themselves more leverage. Somehow, someway this involved more. More land, more power, more wealth, Annabeth wasn't quite sure yet, but she was determined to crack the case.

Pursing her lips in concentration, the blonde carefully opened the book, cautious not to slam her fingers with the heavy stack of paper inside. Her orbs shifted quickly across the papers, absorbing the words quickly- like a sponge desperate for information. She read about Thasite, Jirot, and Sumisu, she read about House Calbourne, House Pevanshire, and House Raya, she read about ships, ports, and harbors, about expensive silks, satins, herbs, and deadly plants, she read about mining, gold, silver, and other precious metals. She read until her eyes stung, so much so that she feared they would be bloodshot and Athena would reprimand her for her unladylike appearance. She read until she could read no more, her eyes moving and interpreting much quicker than the average human, and then she read more.

The royals wouldn't know what hit them.

Bianca

"Tighter, my Lady?"

Bianca glanced down at her handmaiden through a curtain of her dark hair. "No, thank you." The servant nodded, not meeting her in the eye, and fastened the corset. She reached for a silk black gown and heavy, chunky platinum jewelry, holding it up for the Princess of Jirot to see. Bianca nodded absentmindedly, her mind wandering somewhere else.

The servant got to work, altering the dress to fit Bianca perfectly. Bianca, however, was in another world entirely. She couldn't help the bad feeling she got in the pit of her stomach every time she thought about the ball.

The Queen of Epresh herself, Athena, had sent out invitations just that morning. It was awfully last minute and Bianca wasn't sure how much of this she should trust. House Ashington and House Pevanshire, her own house, had always gotten along fairly well, probably the best out of any of the kingdoms. Epresh and Jirot were already in the trading business together, Jirot producing precious metals for Epresh's military usage, but a ball thrown together with haste? It was practically unheard of.

And then there was Nico, her younger brother. Bianca bit her bottom lip, her hands feeling cool and clammy. She had always been a worrier, but the stress seemed to finally getting to her. There were dark circles under her eyes that the maidens had concealed well with makeup, and her face was paler- paler than usual.

Nico was to become King of Jirot soon enough, but that wasn't the issue. Bianca had no doubt in her mind that he would be a just ruler, just like their father, Hades. But Persephone, their mother, kept pushing him, and pushing him. Bianca feared he was bound to shatter, sooner rather than later, and she wasn't anxious for his mental breakdown to say the least. It was tradition, she knew as much, but Nico was adamant that he didn't want to marry any of young women Persephone pushed in his path. Part of Bianca wished her little brother would just pick someone, it didn't hardly matter who- he would be King after all, the highest power in the land- just so Persephone would be pleased and he could become King without any issues or objections. Of course Nico would become King regardless of if he married or not, there were no rules against that, so he wasn't exactly running out of time, but Persephone was supremely pissed, and Kings were expected to marry at the most, a couple months into their rule. Hades had married Persephone a few weeks before his coronation and they had lived happily ever since- a shock to Bianca as she grew up. Most rulers married for power, not for love. Her parents had been very lucky to fall in love with someone of the right status, and they were a rare exception indeed.

Yet something still nagged at the dark-haired young woman. She turned at her maid's request, her chocolate brown eyes thoughtful and troubled. There must be something Nico wasn't telling her. There must be some reason why he was so against marriage. He had always been stubborn, she knew that too, he had always held grudges with everything in him when they were little, but there was no reason he would fight their mother's propositions so angrily and repetitively if there wasn't something else to it…

Bianca herself had met some of his options. Lovely girls, most of them anyways. Persephone's third proposition in particular had been her own favorite: a sweet Duchess who would make a fine Queen some day, with a kind heart and genuine intentions. Bianca had approved immediately and though Nico had seemed to like her well enough, he had once again turned down Persephone's suggestion. It perplexed Bianca.

Naturally, she'd had her own hand in choosing a suitable future Queen of Jirot. If Persephone was going to be so set on finding the Crown Prince of Jirot a Crown Princess, Bianca was determined to try her best to make her brother acquiesce. She'd suggested a Princess- someone who would know what they were doing, someone strong enough to stand up to Nico's often stubborn, blinded side, someone compassionate enough to thaw Nico's cold, hidden heart, someone intelligent enough to keep up Nico's quick wit, someone who knew when to talk- and when to keep quiet in the presence of the silent Crown Prince. There was only one woman by her knowledge who met all these traits, and though she was a bit hot-headed, Bianca thought that Princess Annabeth of House Ashington would make the perfect match. Their families got along so well, so why not? She had not yet been betrothed yet and as far as Bianca knew, Athena was still searching and deciding. It could only improve their trading relationship, and it would cause no political rifts. It was perfect… or so she had thought.

"Don't be ridiculous," Persephone waved her hand dismissively, making Bianca blink in confusion.

"Why, what's wrong?" she inquired.

"Athena has other plans. In fact, I'm awaiting her letter of confirmation as we speak."

"Confirmation? Of what?"

"Nothing, Bianca. Be a dear and find me your father, please," the Queen requested, reaching for the tray of pomegranate seeds in front of her. She plucked a juicy red seed- the same color of her blood red lips- from the center and popped it in her mouth.

Bianca stood up slowly, bewildered, and went in search of Hades.

Even now, Bianca could not fathom for the life of her what that letter was about. Seeing as that conversation was more than a week ago, she could only assume that Queen Athena had confirmed all she needed to and that Persephone had received her answer, whatever that was for.

"-do you approve, Princess?" her handmaiden's soft voice cut through her thoughts like a knife.

Bianca blankly stared into cool glass in front of her. "That'll do, Margaret, thank you." The petite woman nodded, dipped her head, and briskly left the room at the Princess's dismissal.

Bianca blinked at the mirror, gazing at her reflection carefully. She wondered, briefly, how Nico's fitting was going. She wondered if he was as stressed as she was, if he too was thinking of Persephone's suggestions, if he was nervous to become king- though he would never dare show it, if he too shared Bianca's suspicions of the ball, if he believed in love and that's why he didn't like any of these arranged marriages. Bianca had once believed in true love, a delusional quickly squashed at a young age when she learned she would be married away to be someone else's Queen. Nico was not the emotional type, but perhaps, deep down in his hidden soul, he believed in loving someone with your entirety, in loving them with every fiber in your body. Maybe he just wanted a love like their parents'.

Brushing her pale fingers across the cool platinum jewelry in her ears and heavy on her collarbones, Bianca stepped off the pedestal in front of the mirror. Her raven-black hair swept up into a bun felt oddly uncomfortable: tight and stiff, pinned up with riches only the royals in Jirot could own. She adjusted the bracelet that had risen up her forearm and exhaled a deep breath.

She was probably overthinking this like she did for everything else and this ball would probably turn out to be nothing, like usual. Balls were so predictable, always the same routine at every one. Always the same pretentious people with the same false smiles, smiles that hid their power-hungry jealousy. Bianca practiced a smile in the glass, a cordial, kind, yet distanced expression. She'd been to these events a million times. After all this time, nothing could surprise her.

But perhaps that was just wishful thinking.

Piper

Standing next to her sister, Piper only felt more sorrow over her eldest sister's departure. Silena had left both Drew and her a while back, marrying Charles Beckendorf of House Haersley, the new King of Sumisu, and the old Duke of Baca. Her own father, Tristan, was no longer the ruler, and though Charles and Selena should have been here in Sumisu, ruling together, Silena was off in France to study fashion. Their house, House Raya, had always had a huge hand in the fashion of the royals all over the world, seeing as they possessed the most expensive of silks. France had apparently come across a revolutionary idea, a fashion week held in Paris, and they were planning to release the first of many such events in the early 1900s if all went well.

Still, Piper couldn't help but long for her older sister. Though she was the youngest herself, Drew didn't act like Silena, she didn't care for Piper like she'd always big sisters would. It was hard not to feel alone and out of place.

Piper carefully sipped from her cup, trying her best not to wrinkle her nose at the tea. She'd never taken a liking to the Asian delicacy- one Europe had happily adopted. House Raya often indulged in more European traditions, like regular afternoon tea, considering their close bonds to Paris and London- fashion staples of the world. But Sumisu was the biggest fashion country in the world, without a doubt. However, the brunette had never really liked European and Asian traditions, though she did admit that the Asian lifestyle was remarkably healthy.

Piper liked coffee, a good American beverage, and, much to her mother's dismay, American-brewed beer- a drink she snuck up to her room when Aphrodite wasn't looking. Or Drew, for that matter, the snitch. Piper didn't like wandering the infamous Sumisu lush gardens- they were known for their plants as well, she didn't enjoy dressing in extravagant gowns, she didn't like being in the center of attention, she didn't like European traditions, she didn't like learning etiquette.

Piper wanted her freedom from this pompous lifestyle. She wanted her own life, her own schedule, and more than anything else, she wanted someone who understood.

As much as she adored Silena, she knew her sister would never comprehend Piper's wish for another life. Silena adored the fancy life, Drew practically hogged the spotlight for Gods' sake, and Piper was, as usual, alone with her own thoughts. Perhaps a friend would be nice. A friend who could be like a better sister, a friend who too felt trapped.

Piper pondered upon the appealing thought for some time, purposefully not tasting the tea. She picked up a scone, attempting to rid her tongue of the disgusting taste. Aphrodite watched disdainfully as Piper picked at the scone, not really involved in the conversation between her mother and Drew. Little did Aphrodite know that Piper was somewhere else entirely. She was not trapped here in small talk, not between the two women's gossip. No, she was riding a beautiful white stallion outside, her hair loose and flowing in the wind, away, far, far away from this life. She was sword fighting with the pirates of her story books and singing with mermaids and shrinking to the size of a faerie and kicking Prince Charming's imperious ass- the Prince of her mother's choice. She was in a plain surcoat, selling bread in the town, she was hunting with her fairytale big brother, she was running from the monarchy's stupid guards, she was breaking through those wretched chains-

"-and you too, Piper. You too shall be very kind to House Calbourne," Aphrodite said sweetly.

Piper blinked, not really paying attention. "Yes, mother," she mildly concurred. Someday, someday she would be there, someday she would wield her deadly dagger and then no one will be able to touch her.

But for now, the pirates would have to wait another day.

Drew

Drew's eyes gleamed as she stepped out of the carriage. Feet first, just a little ankle showing, and then gracefully take your time getting out. Hand in the footboy's for support, chin up pridefully, an indifferent expression on your face.

Drew quickly snatched her gloved-hand back from the servant, letting the long train of her emerald green dress majestically trail behind her. She rested her dark purple umbrella, decorated with emerald jewel droplets on the edges, neatly on her left shoulder. Her eyelids were a subtle lavender, complimenting her fair skin and dark, sleek hair. Tonight she would get everything Aphrodite had promised. Tonight she would finally outshine Silena as the best daughter. She had prepared her entire life for this moment, the years of etiquette class clearly displayed in her extraordinary elegance. Not only would she be perfectly amiable with the Calbourne brothers, just as her mother Aphrodite had instructed, but she would seal the deal- the deal Athena, Persephone, Medusa, and Aphrodite had agreed on.

Drew seriously doubted that everyone involved knew about the deal and she delighted that Aphrodite had told her everything, she pasted a placid smile on her face and waltzed into the castle of Epresh. First things first, she must greet the host. Her dark eyes scanned the room quickly and efficiently located Queen Athena, dressed head to toe in silver and orange. Just as Drew had suspected, it was indeed a political ball, very meticulously planned by the sly Queen.

"Queen Athena," Drew dipped her head pleasantly, curtsying low to the ground without a hitch. Normally Queens would not bow to other Queens. Kings and Queens were at the top of the monarchy, they bowed for no one, not even Kings and Queens of other lands. But even Princesses and Princes had to bow to these superiors, though they did not have to for each other, nor Dukes and Duchesses. Drew was not Queen. Well, not yet.

"Drew Tanaka of House Raya, Crown Princess of Sumisu," the older woman acknowledged, politely nodding. Drew stood back up, flushing with pride at Athena's emphasis- the latest addition to her title. Normally, Athena would have not uttered her entire title- she had already met Drew before many, many times for tea- but Drew immediately recognized Athena's intention, her not-so-subtle hint at her plan. The Queen was well aware that Queen Aphrodite had informed Drew of the entire ball. Drew could not smother down the genuine smile on her face. She wondered if he knew he was betrothed yet, if he knew that she was to be his Queen, that she would soon rule alongside him, that she too would share his incomparable power.

"Though I have seen your ballroom before, I must say it looks absolutely spectacular, lavishly decorated for tonight. And your ball gown, my Queen, though you need no dress to accentuate your natural beauty, only showcases your radiance," Drew managed to compliment eloquently.

Athena smiled, though it was not genuine. Nobody here was truly at ease, truly happy. It was all a political motive, nothing more, nothing else. No matter what allegiance you formed, you were taught from an early age to watch your back with utmost vigilance, for anyone can betray anyone. Drew had even heard of royal spouses turning on each other, leaving nothing but destruction in their wake. Drew returned the impassive expression, a master of concealing her true emotions.

"And you, Lady Tanaka, the mint green of House Raya suits you well, my dear."

Drew skillfully allowed a fractionally bigger smile in acknowledgement. "You are much too kind, Queen Athena. I am sure you have other guests to attend to, so now I bid you farewell," she said finally, graciously accepting the compliment, however pretend, and simultaneously smoothly excusing herself. As she extracted herself from the interaction, Drew held her spine straight- her corset assisting her with her poise- and she refuted a shiver. House Ashington and House Raya had never perfectly gotten along, but with their countries on the brink of war against bigger enemies, what choice did they have but to unite? The knowledge did not shake Drew of her uneasiness regarding the steel-eyed and quick-witted Queen of Epresh.

Disguising her disgust of House Ashington, Drew pushed forward, adroitly introducing herself to other royals. Dukes, Duchesses, Princesses, and Princes together scanned her twice, soaking in her expensive ball gown, full, carnation-purple lips, and impossibly glossy, black hair. It felt good to be envied, as it always had, it felt good when she knew just how hard she'd worked to be here, to be the most beautiful, the most glamorous, the most poised, and overall the best. Drew did not miss the green-eyed glares of the other women, nor the dropped jaws of the men, tripping over themselves to win her favor. Bless their poor souls, bless those who believed they had a chance with her. She was already betrothed and therefore, she was already in line for power unimaginable.

He would fall at her feet too, eventually. She'd heard he was a tough one to crack, in love with his kingdom and his people, with the crown too, merciful, powerful, and eager for some change. She'd heard rumors about him adding women to the royal council, one of the first countries to make this change- right after Epresh of course.

But he would fall too, she knew. Everyone did. He would fall for her beauty and charm and when he realized, it would be all too late. She would have a firm grasp on his kingdom and soon she would be the sole ruler behind doors, she would whisper her wishes in his ear and he would do as she said, no more, no less, no argument. She alone could make him kneel before her. They all saw what they wanted and she knew it better than anyone else, and moreso, she knew how to manipulate their want until they wanted what she wanted them to, until they would do anything to get their desires. Drew was a sorceress, a temptress, and they all fell for her delicious words, for her mysterious eyes, and her cunning mind. After all, the apple did not fall far from the tree.

Drew scanned across the room once more, a sweeping gaze like she had been taught, and fixated her gaze on one figure in particular. There he stood, proud, tall, and… unknowing. Even though it was ridiculously tempting to spill the news to him herself, the corner of her mouth twitched in amusement and, feigning ignorance, she turned a cheek to his presence, choosing to greet his father before she even approached him. Though strong, she couldn't help but feel he was a bit innocent, a bit naive. Not that she had any issue with that, it only made Aphrodite's instructions easier to execute. Little did he know, mercy didn't exist, not in war, not in love, not in hate, not in life.

And this was only the beginning.

A/N: *relieved sigh* That was hard. I've found that the first few chapters of a story are always the most difficult. I know it was a bit short, but it is only the introduction, after all. Nevertheless, I hope it was intriguing and you plan to stick with me to the end. :)

Next chapter, the ball will take place, and that's when things will hopefully start to get fun. It'll also include Percabeth's first interaction. ;)

Thanks for reading and let me know what you thought! Until next time~

Fangirl xx