So I'm back! Yeah, I know it's been forever since I've updated, but it's here now. Life happens sometimes and when it does things like fanfic stories tend to get pushed to the back burner as far as priorities go. On a brighter note the things that have prevented me from writing for nearly the past year are in the past and I expect to have much more time to dedicate to writing in the future, so that's good! However I'd like to apologize to all my readers for taking so long to update, I'll try my hardest not to let it happen again.

Anyway, here's the next chapter, and as always I don't own PJO.

Percy (Nearly one year later; May 2021)

Percy blew his whistle and shouted. "You need to work on that turn Caleb. You'll have to do better than that at State!" The swimmer in question turned in Percy's direction, and nodded. In a moment he was back in the water, stroking his way across the pool as his peers cheered him on. Percy felt like smiling, but instead kept his stoic mask in place. Despite everything that had happened the past few years, he still wasn't good at showing his emotions to anyone but Artemis. Still, he was in a good mood. His fourth season as the swim team coach at Boulder High School, and he already had three different swimmers going to the State Championship meet. No too bad if I do say so myself, he thought. Now if only I was able to manage the same success in the war he thought, mood suddenly darkening slightly.

Since the attack on their apartment the year before, both he and Artemis had taken more direct, if meaningless, roles in the war preparations. He'd gone patrolling for Giants a number of times in various places around the country with his Father, Artemis, or Will and Apollo, and even once with Clarisse and Ares. All to no avail. Despite the Minotaur's warning of the Giant King rising, no evidence of any Giant or army of monsters could be found anywhere. Not since the Twins anyway, Percy thought. The silence from their enemy was growing deafening, and had most of the Olympian forces on edge.

"Not bad for a mortal child," a strong, sonorous male voice said from behind, cutting into Percy's thoughts. "You've taught them well Perseus," the deep voice said.

Percy turned slowly to find one of the last people he'd expected. A tall, well-muscled man, wearing a sleeveless t-shirt and swimming shorts, with tanned skin, familiar black hair and blue eyes stood leaning against the arena's wall. The body he was wearing looked to be close to Percy's in age, and despite the man's advantage in bulkiness, looking at him was eerily similar to looking in a mirror. "Triton," Percy said, and nodded in way of greeting. "What are you doing here?" Percy noted with annoyance he'd unconsciously dropped his voice lower in order to match his brother's pitch.

Triton smiled slightly, but the emotion did not reach his eyes. "There are a few things we much speak of," he said in his deep voice. "If I may have a few moments that is."

Percy nodded again. "Of course," he said. "Hold on a sec though." Turning back to the practice he blew his whistle three times in rapid succession. Quickly, the team made their way to him and gathered around. "Everyone take a break," he told them. "Good work so far today, go get hydrated and rest for a few minutes." Tilting his head in Triton's direction he added, "My brother and I will be talking in my office if you need me." Percy smiled at their surprised expressions. Yeah I have a brother, Percy told them silently. And my family is more screwed up than you'll ever know. To Triton he said, "This way."

Entering the small office situated in one of the corners of the arena, Percy gestured to a chair before taking his own behind the desk. "What is this about?" he asked without preamble. They'd both gotten their father's personality, Triton wouldn't appreciate dissembling talk any more than Percy would. "I doubt that this is a social visit, so what is it?"

Again Triton smiled that small smile that didn't reach his eyes. He's worried about something, Percy realized. Worried and trying to hide it. "Several years ago," Triton said carefully, "Father gave you a great deal of political power in the seas. You haven't done anything with that power yet, but in light of recent events I thought it in my best interest to find out what your intentions are."

"Political power?" Percy asked in confusion, and then answered his own question. "Ohh, you mean when he told Artemis in the seas my word was law?"

Triton's mouth tightened slightly. "That is the incident I was referring to, yes." Ohh gods, Percy realized, remembering a warning Artemis had given him that day on the beach so long ago. He thinks I mean to usurp him.

Percy shrugged nonchalantly in an attempt to put his godly brother at ease. "I don't plan to do anything with it," he said. "I don't want your position Triton. All I want is to be able to visit Atlantis on occasion." After a moment the other part of Triton's statement came back to him. "What do you mean in light of recent events? Has something happened to Father?"

Triton's eyes narrowed suspiciously. "No," he said. "Nothing like that. Father is fine."

Percy sighed. "Would you like me to publically renounce any claim I have to being Father's heir?" he asked. "I will if it will put you at ease. Just guarantee me and mine access to the seas for as long as we wish, and I'll do it."

Triton studied Percy a moment longer. "You truly have no thirst for power do you?" he asked suddenly. "Mother said you didn't, but I didn't believe her."

Percy grunted and muttered, "I'm not so sure your mother likes me very much, but she's right." Percy sighed and leaned back in his chair, locking his hands behind his head. "The closest thing I've ever had to a brother sacrificed himself to save me," he told Triton, voice just slightly tinged with sadness. "You and I may not be close, but you're still my brother. I'm not going to try and steal your birthright from you."

Triton was silent for a long while before speaking. "So all you require is continued access to the seas and you'll swear publically not to attempt a usurpation?" At Percy's nod he rose and held out a hand. "I'd be a fool not to accept those terms."

Percy grinned slightly and shook the proffered hand. "What recent events were you referring to?" he asked again.

"Nothing of consequence now," Triton said lightly. "My foster-daughter came to me and asked if she could bring your mortal sister to Atlantis. Evidently she's been teaching…Ava is it?...about architecture. Athena wants her to learn about Atlantean structures as well as mortal ones it seems. I thought you might be coming with her as her guardian, so I thought it best to get this conversation out of the way." He paused and quirked an eyebrow, "She didn't tell you?"

Percy sighed and covered his face with his hands. "I swear that woman loves to torture me," Percy muttered. In a louder voice he said, "No Triton, she didn't tell me. But if Ava is going beneath the waves I'll be there with her. Do you by any chance know when this expedition is supposed to be? It'd have to be in the next week. Summer classes begin after that, and Athena would never let Ava miss school."

Triton chuckled fondly. "No she wouldn't, would she?" He shook his head, "No, she didn't tell me, but if she does I'll let you know."

Well that's progress, Percy thought. Though he probably just wants me to make the announcement as soon as possible. "Thanks," he said, and then nodded toward the door. "I better get back out there before they drown themselves," he said, and then paused. "You're welcome to stay around for practice if you want."

Triton laughed again. "Very well brother," he said. "Let's see just how well you've done with these mortals."

Triton followed him back into the arena, and Percy raised his whistle to blow the signal to gather only to find he didn't need to. The team was sitting on the edge of the pool outside his office. "What's this?" Percy asked in mild amusement. "Trying to eves drop on me and my brother Caleb?"

The senior team captain stood, grinning sheepishly. "No Coach Jackson," he said and waved a hand behind him to take in the entire team. "We just wanted to meet your brother is all. We've only ever heard you talk of Ava and Miss. Zoe."

Before Percy could answer Triton stepped past him, a mischievous glint in his eye, and extended a hand toward Caleb. Percy groaned inwardly. Not another meddling god in my life, he pleaded to no one in particular. Please, Apollo is bad enough.

"I'm Triton," his brother said in his deep voice, and grinned slightly looking over his shoulder toward Percy. "I see my baby brother has trained you well despite him never being more than an adequate swimmer."

Percy quirked an eyebrow and grinned back. This is a very different Triton than I remember, he thought. This Triton I just might be able to tolerate. "Is that a challenge, Brother, or are you just getting arrogant in your old age?" he asked, ignoring the shocked expressions and raised eyebrows among his swimmers. They knew some of what he could do.

Triton waved a dismissive hand, "You wouldn't even stand a chance." He turned back to the team. "What do you think," he asked Caleb, "want to see a race between two long lost brothers?"

In no time at all Percy and Triton were lining up to race as his swim team lined the edge of the pool cheering their encouragement. "Racing a lowly demigod Triton?" Percy asked under his breath, letting just a touch of sarcasm color his voice. "Isn't this a little beneath the Prince of the Seas?"

Triton shrugged. "We're not in Atlantis," he responded just as quietly. "I can relax a bit here." He grinned suddenly, "Plus I've always wondered just what Father's favorite son was capable of. Today I find out." Percy felt himself stiffen slightly and opened his mouth to offer protest, but Triton waved it aside. "I'm not bitter Percy. Maybe in the old days I would have been, but in these times powerful demigods are more important than heirs. I know Father loves me. That is enough."

Percy considered for a moment then nodded. "Very well," he said. "Now let's get back to me kicking your ass." Triton just grinned and got set. Percy followed suit, and from the side of the pool Caleb blew a whistle. Both brothers launched themselves at the water.

Artemis

Artemis looked from her work behind the counter as a small bell rang announcing someone was entering the bakery. Mrs. Evelyn, seated in a cushioned rocking chair brought down from her apartment above cut off her story about the grandson of a friend that Artemis had only been listening to with half an ear. She picked up her knitting to allow Artemis time to deal with the customer, a practice that was quickly becoming ritual for them. Despite Apollo's attentions, age had finally caught up with the elderly woman. I'm going to miss this woman when she's gone, Artemis thought to herself, already dreading the day. She now ran the bakery in Evelyn's place, and the elderly woman came down only a few hours a day to speak with Artemis as she worked. Not an ideal situation, but they made the most of the time they had left together.

Artemis quirked an eyebrow in surprise as a figure appeared in the doorway. What in the world is Athena doing here?

Sister, she asked mentally, why have you come to this place?

Athena smiled sadly as she made her way to the counter. I wished to meet this daughter in law of mine you've grown so fond of, she replied, a hint of pity in her silent sending. Apollo wanted me to warn you her time was short, Hades confirmed this to me when I asked. She paused for a moment, and then added, I must make a request of you as well, but not now. Later.

Artemis felt a cold knot form in the pit of her stomach. Gods no, not already, Artemis nearly pleaded.

I'm so sorry, Sister, Athena said sadly. But even Hades cannot defy the Fates. You know this.

How long? Artemis asked.

This very hour.

Fighting down tears, Artemis nodded and turned to Evelyn. "Mrs. Evelyn," she said as warmly as she could manage. The elderly woman looked up smiling, oblivious to the silent exchange.

"What is it my dear," she asked glancing between Artemis and Athena. There was no recognition in her eyes that Artemis could see when she glanced at Athena.

There's someone who that wants to meet you," she told the elderly woman, as she waved Athena around the counter to join them. "This is my sister, Athena" she said, and grinned slightly at the widening of Evelyn's eyes. "Who just so happens to also be your mother in law."

Evelyn stared up, in wide eyed surprise for a moment, and then made as if to stand. "Please Mrs. Evelyn," Athena said quickly, kneeling down before Evelyn's rocking chair and placing a calming hand on her shoulder. "Remain seated. There is no need to strain yourself."

Evelyn hesitated for a moment before nodding slightly and settling back. "My Lady," she breathed, eyes slightly watery, "It is a pleasure to finally meet you."

Athena smiled warmly. "To you Evelyn," she said, "I am simply Athena. We are family after all, you and I. I come today to finally meet the woman who has given both my son and my sister so much happiness over the years."

Evelyn smiled warmly in return. "I promise you Athena, the happiness both Richard and Artemis have given me over the years dwarfs anything I could have possibly given back to either of them."

Athena smiled sadly in return. "I can see why my son loved you so," she murmured softly. "And why my sister cherishes you most among mortals." She paused a moment before continuing, "I wish I'd come to meet you sooner."

Evelyn's eyes widened slightly at that, and she glanced toward Artemis. Artemis's heart broke, and though she tried to keep it from her face, she was sure she failed. "I see," Evelyn murmured, and then smiled. "I'll get to see Richard again," she said, eyes bright with excitement.

Despite herself, Artemis smiled through her tears and stepped forward. Athena rose to move aside, and Artemis took her place, kneeling before Evelyn. "I'm going to miss you Mrs. Evelyn," Artemis said softly.

Evelyn lifted a hand, and cupped Artemis's cheek. "Ohh My Dear," she murmured, "you'll know where to find me if you ever need to talk. I've done all I can for you, Percy, and Ava, little as that may be. I think I'll finally welcome the rest."

"You've done more for me than you can ever imagine," Artemis said, once again smiling through her tears. "Say hello to your husband for me."

"It's time," a calm deep voice said from the shadows. A figure stepped forward resolving into Hades himself. Artemis saw Athena's eyebrows rise at the honor their Uncle was showing the mortal woman by coming to retrieve her himself.

Thank you, Uncle, for the warning she sent him silently, as she rose and backed away. I needed to say goodbye.

He nodded his acceptance as he approached Evelyn. She bowed her head in respect and murmured, "My Lord."

For one of the rare moments in her long life Artemis saw a hint of a smile quirk the corner of her Uncles mouth. It was gone in an instant, but it had been there. "Your husband awaits you at the gates of Elysium," he said in that same calm voice. "Shall I take you to him?"

"Yes, My Lord," Evelyn said with a contented smile.

Hades nodded. "Then close your eyes."

Evelyn looked to Artemis one last time before obeying. "Goodbye, My Dear," she said softly, still smiling. "I know you'll do well." Then she sat back and closed her eyes. Hades placed a palm against her forehead, and after a moment her chest grew still. Artemis bit back a sob.

The room grew still. "I'm sorry, Artemis," Hades murmured into the silence. "I gave her all the time I could." He disappeared, engulfed in shadows.

Artemis fought down her sorrow with effort, and turned to Athena. "Will you watch Ava this afternoon?" she asked softly.

Athena nodded. "She'll spend the night on Olympus with me. I'll have her back for school tomorrow."

"Thank you," Artemis breathed, and then flashed away.

Percy

Percy opened the front door to the apartment and dropped his bag muttering to himself. He was still somewhat annoyed Triton was able to beat him, if only by a fraction of a second, in their race. "That won't happen again," he muttered. Still, for a lowly half-blood facing off against a god he knew he'd done well. I'll challenge him again sometimes, he promised himself. He smiled thinking back on the team's reaction to the two Princes of the Seas swimming for all they were worth. They'd never actually seen him cut loose like that, and their reactions had been satisfying to say the least. I wonder how many record the two of us just broke, he mused as he walked through the foyer and into the kitchen.

"Artemis," he called. "Ava, I'm home." He grabbed a glass, poured himself some water, and then frowned. Where are they, he thought, as he made his way up the stairs, intending to take a shower. He stuck his into Ava's room and frowned. I guess Athena came by for her, he thought and shook his head ruefully. That woman really needed to start letting them know when she was going to be taking Ava away. It would get rid of a lot of his needless worrying.

Percy opened the door to their bedroom and froze. Artemis was face down on the bed, shoulders shaking. He stood staring, unsure what was going on, until he heard a sob come from her direction. Percy was at her side in an instant, not even remembering crossing the room, and pulled her into his arms. She clung to him with a frightening intensity, and cried into his chest as he rocked her back and forth, smoothing her hair, and murmuring. "Shh, love. It's going to be alright. Why don't you tell me what happened," he asked, already fearing he knew what her answer would be.

Artemis didn't answer, but she didn't have to. Only one thing would bring Artemis to such a state, and it was the one thing neither of them could fight. Not even the Olympians can fight time and fate, he reflected sadly. So Percy did the only thing he could. He held her as she cried, just as she'd done for him so many times before.

Percy (Two years later. June 2023)

Poseidon gave an encouraging wave goodbye as he disappeared in a column of salt water, and Percy turned around to face the door. He took a deep breath and steeled himself to do what he'd been wanting to do for years now. I have to do this, he told himself firmly. For Artemis, I have to. His determination grew with the thought, but his anxiety did as well.

"Where have you been Kelp Head," a feminine voice asked from behind. He turned to see a figure in burnished orange armor approaching, spear clicking on the cobbles with each stride.

Percy grinned, "Patrolling down on the Texan coast with Father and Triton," he said, thankful for the distraction. "Triton got word of a lead on a Giant there." Percy felt his smile turn into a slight scowl. "It didn't pan out. Three years we've been searching for that damn Giant King and nothing. What about you Thals? Aren't you supposed to be guarding the Hearth or something?" he teased. Realizing where they were he felt his eyebrows draw down, "And what in the world are you doing here? Apollo's palace is the last place I'd think to find you."

Thalia reached up to remove her helmet, shook out her sweaty hair, and then rolled her eyes. "Part of the job," she muttered in a distinctly dissatisfied tone. "If I'm going to guard this place I need to know what's going on around Olympus." She sighed heavily and looked up at the shining golden palace. "Unfortunately that means here too."

Percy laughed and stepped forward to pull her into a hug, carefully keeping an eye on the woman's knives. Frankly, at the moment the risk was worth it. He needed the reassurance. Thankfully she didn't reach for them; she still would on occasion, depending on her mood. "It's been too long," he said. "I don't want to keep you from you duties, and I have business with Apollo, but I promise to come by the barracks before I leave."

Thalia hugged him back lightly, and then stepped back smiling. "You and Apollo huh?" she asked. "I better go get a few more of the girls to help me clean up whatever mess the two of you make." She waved and walked off to continue her rounds.

Percy smiled at her retreating back. "See you soon Thals," he called after her. He then took a deep, calming breath, and turned to climb the steps and knock on Apollo's door.

The door opened before he even reached it and he heard Apollo's distant voice call, "Come on in Perce."

Percy rolled his eyes and entered the blindingly bright palace. Through squinted eyes he could just barely make out the décor. Golden marble and golden fixtures everywhere, opulent beyond belief and hot enough to make sweat begin to prickle his skin. Yep, Percy thought, about what I'd expect from him.

"Geez Apollo," Percy called back. "Cool it will you? I'm about to roast alive." From another room Percy could hear Apollo laugh, and the temperature and brightness suddenly dropped to a more bearable level. "Thanks," Percy muttered as he walked to the room he'd heard Apollo's voice from. He found the god there, lounging in a golden chair Percy could only describe as a throne, and fiddling with some type of harp like instrument on his lap. "Please tell me that monstrosity you're sitting on isn't pure gold," Percy asked the god as he approached. "That'd be too ridiculous even for you."

Apollo looked up and grinned. "What's the point of being a god if you can't enjoy a few perks?" he asked in return. He looked back down and plucked a few strings on the instrument, frowned, adjusted something Percy couldn't see, and then plucked a few more strings. This time he smiled to himself, though for the life of him Percy couldn't tell a difference in the notes from the ones before. "So what can I do you for, cuz?" Apollo asked, then paused. "Or bro? You know I'm never really quite sure what to call you anymore."

Percy rolled his eyes and sat down in a slightly less opulent throne across from Apollo. He leaned back and threw a leg across one of the armrests trying to appear calmer than he felt. "I need your help," he said slowly.

Apollo's grin grew sly, but he kept his eyes on the instrument in his lap, still plucking strings. The music really was beautiful, even to Percy's untrained ear. It was a calming melody that he was certain Apollo was playing on purpose. "For what," he asked after a moment.

Percy sighed. "You know what, Mr. God of Prophecy," a bit more testily than he intended. "Are you gonna help me or not? I want at least some backup when I talk to your father, and having you there will make me feel like less of a coward than if I ask my own father." Percy paused, and then continued, "Plus you're her brother, and she loves you. I figured if anyone came with me it should be you."

Apollo finally looked up and smiled. "You're asking the King of the Gods for one of his favored daughter's hand in marriage," he said just as calmly as if he hadn't killed people in the past for even contemplating the thought. "What's more, you're asking me of all people to help you do it. Coward isn't the word I'd use to describe you Perseus Jackson." The smile turned back into a sly grin. "Plus," he said lightly as he rose, "you and I both know what the answer is going to be. This is just a formality from an age long past. Come on." He waved Percy to follow, and reluctantly he rose to do so. "I've waited too long for this day," he said as they walked toward the door and the Hall of the Gods. "No way am I giving you the chance to back out, we're doing this now."

"You've waited like 14 years," Percy muttered, "and leave it to you Apollo to make your sister's prospective marriage all about you."

The sun god only grinned as they left his palace, and turned up the hill toward the Hall.

A short time later a very relieved Percy and grinning Apollo were leaving a beaming Zeus behind in the Hall of the Gods. "Hera!" Zeus's voice boomed from behind them as they descended the hill. "Hera! Come quickly! I have news for you." Thunder boomed and lightning struck. Percy glanced over his shoulder to find Zeus's throne empty.

"I guess he just couldn't wait to tell her," Apollo said lightly, and clapped Percy on the shoulder. "Now when exactly do you plan on asking her bro? Me and D are gonna need some time to get the engagement party together!"

Percy glanced at the sun god and winced, turning away again. "Apollo you're blinding me again," Percy muttered, still coming down from his nervous high.

"Sorry Bro," Apollo beamed for a moment longer, and then dimmed slightly, but the smile remained. "Just excited you know?"

Percy finally smiled weakly back at the god. "No problem man," he said, and held up his quivering hand. "Gods I'm shaking like a leaf," he breathed. "I think I need to sit down."

Apollo laughed. "Nerves or excitement?" he asked as they continued walking down the hill.

"A whole hell of a lot of both," Percy said feeling his grin grow stronger. Excitement finally starting to win out inside of him, and he felt himself growing giddy. "I need to talk to Hephaestus," he said. "I'm going to need a ring." Not wanting to waste any more time, Percy broke into a trot. "You coming?" he called over his shoulder at Apollo.

"Not this time bro," Apollo called back laughing. "This one you should do on your own!" He disappeared in a bright flash of golden light, and the sunlight from above suddenly became more intense. Percy thought he could almost hear the roar of the sun chariot's engine above as Apollo took the thing for a celebratory joy ride.

Percy dashed past palace after palace, dodging around the immortal occupants of the godly city, until he found the place he was looking for. Striding up to the front door of Hephaestus's palace he knocked without hesitation. The door opened immediately to reveal a dazzlingly beautiful woman nearly bursting with excitement. Percy took a step back. "Lady Aphrodite," he breathed, and made as if to bow.

He never even had the chance, as she let out a squeal of excitement and threw herself at him, engulfing him in a hug. Percy tried to pull back, but it was no use. He adamantly tried to ignore how good the feel of her body pressed against his felt, even as the intoxicating smell of her perfume clouded his thoughts. The embrace lasted just a moment too long before Aphrodite jerked back as if burned. She smiled and Percy's breath caught. "No," she pouted playfully, swatting her own hand. "Bad Aphrodite. He's Artemis's, so hands off." She clapped her hands together and bounced up and down looking for all the world like a child on Christmas morning. "I'm sorry Percy," she said in a voice that somehow managed to be sultry and excited at the same time. Percy had to force himself to breath. "I'm just so happy this is finally happening! Over three thousand years I've been working on that girl and finally you come along! Ohh I could just…"

"Wife," a deep, rough voice cut in. "Perhaps you should let the boy in. No telling what Artemis would do if she found out you touched her demigod." Percy pulled his eyes from Aphrodite, which took more effort that he was willing to admit, the goddess simply oozed sexual appeal, and his eyes found Hephaestus.

"Thank you, My Lord," Percy forced out, and he stepped forward as Aphrodite stepped aside.

The goddess huffed. "Ohh you know I'd never do anything to harm such pure love, Husband. I'm just so excited!"

"Why are you here," Hephaestus asked gruffly, sparing his wife only a single glance. "Though by Aphrodite's reaction I don't suppose I really need to ask."

Percy took a deep breath, trying to clear his head. It didn't work very well, but he went on anyway. "I intend to ask Artemis to marry me," Percy said plainly. "I need you to make me a ring."

Hephaestus considered Percy for a long moment before answering. "And what do I get out of this exchange," he asked bluntly.

Aphrodite swatted his arm. "Don't you dare start bargaining here, Hephaestus" she scolded. Gods she even looks sexy doing that, Percy thought. "If you ever want a chance to sleep with your wife again you'll do this for me."

Percy felt his face blush crimson and looked away, as Hephaestus cursed under his breath. Percy thought he heard the word "Ares." "Very well," he said aloud in his gravelly voice. "Follow me." Hephaestus turned toward a set of stairs that lead down to a long dark corridor.

Percy made to follow, and Aphrodite fell in beside him, still smiling as brightly as ever. Percy stifled a groan, and had to remind himself to breathe. "You know," she said, "I've been planning your wedding for centuries now. I didn't know it would be for you of course, but I just knew one day that stubborn, young, mood goddess would finally give in to love. It's just going to be perfect! I can't wait! When do you plan on asking her? How long do you think you'll want to wait before the ceremony? I'm going to need to know these types of things so I can set up a proper schedule, and I'm babbling aren't I?"

Percy blinked at the onslaught, his clouded mind couldn't process the information fast enough. "Umm, My Lady," he said slowly, his voice strained, and shook his head trying again, and failing, to clear his thoughts. "Do you think that maybe you could reign in your power a little? At least until I'm gone." Aphrodite laughed, a more melodious sound than he'd ever heard in his life, but his thoughts cleared somewhat. She was still the most undeniably beautiful woman he'd ever seen in his life, but the nearly unbearable sexual attraction was gone. Now he could almost believe she was just another woman. Almost. Percy sighed. Gods that was uncomfortable, he thought. "Thank you," he said.

"I'm sorry, Percy," Aphrodite murmured, still smiling, and finally seeming to get control of her excitement. It was a warm, friendly smile now, where before he could only see the invitation. "After all you've done sometimes I forget you're still only a demigod. I'll try to remember in the future to be careful around you. The last thing I want is to ruin the love I've been working to forge for so long." She patted his upper arm and grinned. "I did tell you long ago you'd have an interesting love life, did I not?"

Percy smiled back weakly, the excitement he'd been feeling earlier starting to return. I'm really going to do it, he realized. I'm going to ask Artemis to marry me. Together they followed the hulking form of Hephaestus silently, each lost in their own thoughts, Percy's wrapped up in Artemis, and Aphrodite's he assumed wrapped up wedding plans, down a dark twisting staircase into what Percy assumed was a basement of some kind. "My Lady," he ventured after a while, and the beautiful goddess turned to him and arched a perfect eyebrow in a slightly familiar way. "Don't you think Artemis will want to be involved in planning her own wedding?"

Aphrodite laughed, the melodious sound drifting up and down the cramped corridor. "Percy believe me," she said still laughing. "Artemis may not like me very much, but she's smart enough to trust me to do what I do best. On your wedding day you should be focused on each other, not on logistics." As her laughter died away, a thoughtful look replaced the mirth on her face. "Tell me Percy, what do you see when you look at me?"

"What do you mean, My Lady," Percy asked in confusion. Is this some kind of trick he thought?

"I mean look at me," she said seriously. "Really look at me, and tell me what, or who, it is you see."

"You look a lot like Artemis," Percy said immediately, finally pinpointing exactly what it was that had seemed so familiar about the goddess earlier. "A lot like Artemis. Though I can see some of Annabeth in you too, and even a little Calypso." He paused then asked, "Why is that?"

Aphrodite smiled, and shrugged. "I'm beauty personified," she told him plainly. "The fact that you see Artemis in me is promising."

Percy nodded slowly and then looked up as they exited the dark corridor and entered a large, low ceilinged room with a glowing forge in the center. Aphrodite patted his arm, and waved in the general direction of one wall. "You go sit over there," she said absently. "Let me and my ogre of a husband do what we do best." Percy smiled and obeyed.

Artemis

Artemis tossed and turned, unable to fall asleep, and alone in the big bed she and Percy normally shared. It'd been years since she'd last slept alone, even when Percy had been patrolling without her before he always came home at night, and now that she'd been forced to do it again after so long sleep was elusive. I guess I've come to rely on Percy more than I thought I did, she thought as she rolled over trying to find a comfortable position. Percy had been gone with his Father and Triton for a week so far, chasing their first promising lead on the Giant King in over a year, and each successive night had been more restless than the last. Knowing Ava, the girl she'd come to think of as a daughter in a lot of ways, was sleeping just down the hall had given he some comfort in the beginning, but Athena had showed up that very afternoon wanted to take the young teenager on another one of their excursions. So now, for the first time in years, Artemis was truly alone. Her mind was racing with thoughts of Percy, her senses were in overdrive, and suddenly she found the sheets stifling. Throwing them off with a muffled curse she muttered, "This is useless," to the open air, and she sat up in the bed looking around. "What the hell is wrong with me tonight?" You know exactly what it is, she told herself. You miss him. One week without him is all you can bear. When did I get so weak?

Artemis shrugged uncomfortably at her own foolishness, and the strap of the sports bra she always wore to bed dug into her shoulder. "I can't breathe with this thing on," she growled to herself as she tore off the silver-silken tank top and then the bra. The bra went to the floor immediately, and she considered a moment before slipping the tank top back on. The silk was soft and cooling against her flushed skin. She sighed softly at the freedom, and then her shorts followed the bra to the floor. Laying back in the bed she pulled the silver sheet up to her chest and rested her head on the pillow. After a moment she reached out and pulled Percy's pillow into a hug. It smelled faintly of the sea. The soft silk of the sheets cooled her the flushed skin of her long legs and she finally began to relax. That's a little better at least, she thought to herself as she finally began to drift off to sleep. What would Percy do if he came home tonight and found me like this? she asked herself with a smile just before slipping into a dream where he did just that.

Percy

Percy slipped into the bedroom on silent feet, and smiled at the sight of Artemis asleep on her stomach and face buried into the pillow. In her sleep she'd somehow managed to pull his own pillow to her, and was hugging it with one arm. That was odd, he thought to himself. Artemis rarely tosses in her sleep. Quietly, he crossed the room to remove his pajamas from a drawer. Smiling, he dug around in his pockets for a moment before coming out with a small silver box that quickly disappeared into the drawer. Silently he left the room. With Ava gone he intended take a shower in her room to keep from waking Artemis. The hot, steaming water washed the weariness of the last week from his muscles. He stood beneath the cleansing flow for a long time, before finally washing, drying, and dressing in the green silken pants Artemis had given him what seemed like so long ago now.

Making his way to their room, Percy sighed wearily. Another useless quest, he thought. This lack of information regarding Gaea's forces had him on edge. At least I can finally get back to the team though. The thought brought a smile to his face. Opening the door as quietly as he could, Percy slipped into the room. Artemis had shifted again, and one bared leg now stuck out from beneath the silver sheet exposed almost to the hip. Percy's eyes widened and he felt his pulse quicken. Stop that, he told himself firmly. She didn't expect you to be home tonight is all. A glitter of silver fabric on the floor next to the bed caught his eye, and his eyebrows rose. Well, he thought after a moment, this should be interesting.

Slowly, careful not to wake her, Percy climbed into the bed, and crawled over to Artemis. Bending down he kissed the side of her neck, and whispered in her ear. "Hey beautiful, I'm home." She stirred, woke slowly, and then turned over beneath him. Her eyes were on fire with desire.

Artemis

Artemis woke from a dream where she and Percy had been doing some very interesting things together to the sound of Percy whispering in her ear. "Hey beautiful, I'm home." She felt herself smile deeply, and the hunger for him that she'd been unconsciously suppressing for years came alive within her. Whether it was the time apart, the dream, or a combination of the two she did not know, but she needed him. Now. Turning over slowly, she let the sheet slide away, and looked up into his sea-green eyes. The same desire she felt within burned in his eyes, and she couldn't wait anymore. She wrapped one hand around the back of his neck and pulled him roughly into a deep, passionate kiss. She heard herself moan softly as his body pressed against hers, and before she knew what she was doing she was tearing at his pants with her free hand. Percy grabbed her hand roughly, and forced it over her head, pinning her arm to the bed. She heard herself unconsciously moan again, and lifted her hips to press her body closer to his. She felt him then, hot and hard against the top of her thigh, and started grinding against him. His free hand found its way to her hip, and he pushed her back down to the bed pinning her in place. She moaned a third time. Percy broke the kiss suddenly. "Stop," he breathed roughly. "You have to stop that."

"Like hell I will," Artemis growled, and kissed him again. "Percy I'm ready for this."

Again Percy forced her down roughly, pinning her to the bed, and her lust for him only grew. "I can see that," he forced out the gritted teeth. He looked to be fighting himself to force out every word. "But I'm not."

Artemis's desire fled in a flash. "What?" she asked incredulously, trying to ignore the stinging pain of hurt the words caused.

Her emotions must have shown on her face because Percy rolled off of her, and cursed himself. "I'm a damned fool," he muttered. He turned to look at her after a moment and his eyes lingered on her body before rising to her face. Artemis looked down and blushed. The thin silk hid little, and her nipples were clearly visible standing hard against the shirt. Below the waste she wore only a small pair of silver panties. Her hand twitched for the sheet but she stopped herself. I will not cover myself, she thought fiercely. Let him see what he's refusing. Percy seemed to have to force himself to meet her gaze. "Call me old-fashioned," he muttered, "but after waiting as long as we have I'd rather we be married first." His eyes fell to her body again. "You're sure as hell not making it easy though," he said after a moment.

Artemis's anger subsided somewhat, but confusion, and a little amusement, took its place. "Old fashioned?" she asked. "I'm a thirty-five hundred year old maiden Greek goddess. What's more old-fashioned than me?"

Percy's quirked a small grin, and the rest of Artemis's anger died. "Well I'm American," he said with a soft chuckle, "and we tend to be prudes about such things."

Artemis found herself laughing with him. This man has my emotions so twisted I don't know what to expect, she thought in wonder. From desire, to hurt, to rage, and now I'm laughing. All in a matter of seconds. "Well I of all people won't pressure you if you don't want to," she told him as she pulled his arm around her and nestled into his side. She rested her head on his shoulder as he pulled her close, and then she gave him a quick jab to the ribs with a clenched fist. He grunted in pain. "But if we're not married soon I swear on the Styx I will kill you," she said seriously. She raised a finger cutting off his reply. "And I will not make it easy on you," she said looking down at her clothes again and grinning. "This is the most you'll catch me wearing in bed from now on."

Percy's grunt turned into a soft chuckle. "You won't find any arguments here."

Artemis closed her eyes and breathed in Percy's scent. As always he smelled of the sea, a scent she'd come to love these past few years. "It's good to have you home," she said softly. They lay like that for a while before Artemis raised herself on an elbow to look down at Percy. "I learned something about myself today," she said. Percy's eyes opened and he quirked an eyebrow at her questioningly. "I think we're going to need a pair of Celestial Bronze handcuffs for the honeymoon."

Percy didn't respond immediately. Instead he continued to stare as if he hadn't heard her, and then he burst into disbelieving laughter. Artemis found herself smiling as he laughed. Finally, when laughter began to die down he was able to gasp, "What?"

Artemis shrugged uncomfortably. This is Percy, she chided herself. You don't have to fear telling him anything. "When you had me pinned against the bed just now," she said, "I kind of liked that feeling of vulnerability. I want to try it again."

Percy's eyebrow rose, and amusement still danced in his eyes. "Vulnerable," he said as if testing the word. "You liked feeling vulnerable? Now that's the last thing I ever expected you to say."

Artemis laid back down next to him, and rested her head on his should again before answering. "My whole life I've been the goddess," she said slowly. "The final authority, the ultimate power, the bearer of responsibility." She ran an arm across his chest and pulled herself closer to him. "With you I don't have to be that. When you look at me you just see a woman." She felt her lips turn up into a smile. "I like that, and whether it's true or not I think I like the illusion of being powerless with you."

Percy was silent for a long time. "Vulnerable," he said again. "Well if you can do it then so can I. Give me your hand Artemis." Percy untangled his arm from hers and turned onto his side. She raised a questioning eyebrow at him, but he just gestured for her hand. She gave it to him and he guided her hand to a spot on the small of his back. When her fingers brushed it she felt him shiver. "That's where it is," he said softly.

Artemis felt her brow crinkle in confusion. "Where what…" she began before the question died on her tongue. She felt her eyes grow wide with realization, and before she knew it she as kissing him again. Not with the frantic passion of moments earlier, but in a way that she hoped conveyed the depths of her love for him. She felt him smile against her lips, then he wrapped his arms around her and was kissing her back. They stayed like that, wrapped in each other's arms for the rest of the night.

So there it is. Lots of ups and downs in this chapter. Evelyn's death is something I spent a lot of time debating on how to handle, and in the end I decided to kind of have it come quickly and unexpectedly. That's how death happens in real life in my own experience. Having just recently lost my own grandmother, who was about Evelyn's age, this was a difficult section to write but it needed to be done.

Triton is someone I've spent a lot of time debating on how to handle as well, and I still haven't made up my mind. I may leave the relationship how it is or go any number of different directions. Why don't you guys tell me what you think?

As for everything else. Percy has made plans to propose you guys! Freaking finally right? Expect the proposal sometime in the next chapter or two followed shortly by the wedding. I don't plan on spending a lot of time on either of those things however, because I believe there are more interesting plot points in the future that with make for a better story. However, they are both still important, so I will give them their due course. Smaller plot points like the funeral and trip to Atlantis in the chapter happened off screen. This is already a pretty long story, and if I show every little thing that doesn't have much plot significance I'd never be able to finish.

So that's it. As always, please leave a review and let me know what you think!