Hey guys! Before you kill me for leaving you on a cliffhanger for a week, let me explain. I had finals, a tournament, and injuries, and I tried my best to get this up on monday, but it just didn't work out. I decided to make this 7.5 thousand word chapter for you all. It is action packed and awesome, in my opinion :). I hope you guys like it as well.
Thanks for all the supporters. I have over 12,000 views, almost 80 reviews, 80 favorites, and over 100 followers! Thanks for all the support, it really means a lot.
Now on with the story!
Disclaimer: I do not own PJO or HoO, I only own my OC's and plot ideas.
Third Person PoV:
"I am Percy Jackson."
The throne room was silent. Not a noise was made. It sounded like a calm, tranquil place, but the tension could be felt in the air. Percy raised an eyebrow at his expressions.
Shocked faces were upon the many gods and campers present during the Olympian Council meeting. Nervous glances were exchanged. The great Hero of Olympus, Percy Jackson, had escaped from the great abyss of Tartarus? It seemed unlikely. Very unlikely. Zeus was dumbfounded. Athena kept a poker face, but it was apparent that she was just as astonished as the rest of the room. Annabeth, already knowing of Percy's whereabouts kept a blank expression, but she was still stunned that Percy would appear in front of those he hated so much. But the person in the room who showed the most emotion was none other than Percy's father himself, Poseidon.
The Lord of the Seas had tears streaming from his eyes, and an ashamed look on his face. He looked like the lost part of him had been found, but he felt poorly for what he did not do five years ago; stand up to his younger brother Zeus. Poseidon began to rise from his seat when an angry voice caused him to flinch.
"Sit down, father," he spat at the old god, anger clearly shown on his face and in his eyes of darkness. Poseidon looked shocked, but knew it was coming. He sat down reluctantly, but did as his son said.
"Percy, I-"
"Don't even say it dad. You stood idly by while your brother Zeus tossed me down into the deepest, darkest place in the world. For a crime I didn't even commit," Percy snapped. He turned away from his father, who was still full of grief. Although his son had returned and managed to somehow escape Tartarus, (which they didn't know how), he had changed, and it seemed he had no love for his father anymore.
After several minutes of awkward silence, Zeus cleared the anger he was feeling when seeing the person who he thought killed his son, and calmed himself before speaking to his nephew. Percy still stood in the center of the room, his body emanated a powerful aura and sly smirk and eyes looking around the room. He made eye contact with each god and goddess. Although Percy was not as powerful as the Big Three, he was still very powerful indeed, oblivious to the gods, though they could tell he had gotten stronger.
"Percy Jackson, what brings you here," Zeus asked, still trying to contain his anger. Percy looked at the man who had ruined his life, hatred coursing through his veins as he replied back to the God of the Skies.
"I heard you were looking for me. It has come to my attention that I am needed for a war against Erebus and Tartarus," he said. When the name Tartarus was spoken, the room grew cold and evil was clearly present. Percy grinned wickedly as the feeling retreated. The gods gasped. They knew not of Tartarus' involvement. They only knew of Erebus. Percy concluded this from the expressions on the gods and goddess' faces.
"Oops, sorry to spoil the surprise," he said mockingly. He turned and winked at Annabeth, who shrunk down in her seat, trying to avoid attention.
"How do you know of this information?" Athena asked. Percy looked at his cousin, before shrugging innocently.
"We'll get to that later."
"Are you here to help us?" Zeus asked hopefully. Percy glared at Zeus, his black eyes pulsing with fury and ire. He almost laughed before he finally said words that the gods would dread forever.
"Of course not." Poseidon looked down. Zeus was rising from his seat as Percy flashed a dangerous look at him.
"I will not be aiding you. I have new masters now. Much more...what's the word... ah, powerful masters. I will not fight for you, as I am now known as the Champion of Erebus and Tartarus. Know this throughout the war, that all your efforts will be in vain and futile. There is no way you can win this war ahead of you, for you need me. Zeus, do you think I have forgotten what you did? Do you think I have forgiven? You took everything from me, and now, you shall feel my wrath as we tear down Olympus brick by brick and stone by stone," Percy Jackson spat as the lights grew dim in the room. The gods looked fearful, but Zeus' anger just grew and grew. Poseidon felt as if he was to blame, and Annabeth had a single tear, coursing its way down her face. Percy turned to her and his anger retreated ever so slightly.
"I am sorry love. But this must be done," he said. Annabeth began to sob as her brother Malcolm held her reassuringly. Zeus, now fuming with rage, stood from his throne and commanded the Olympians to restrain Percy.
"If you do not wish to help us willingly, we will do it forcefully. SEIZE HIM!" Zeus yelled. Ares rose from his seat, still slightly shocked at everything that had happened. Artemis drew her bow, and Athena rose. Poseidon stayed where he was, watching the event play out. He was still shaken up from everything that had happened.
Many of the Olympians stood ready to attack, when Percy whistled and grinned.
A deafening roar was heard throughout Olympus. Many of the campers looked fearful as they knew what was going to happen. Annabeth was wide-eyed, as some of the gods looked confused at their children's worry, when all Hades broke loose.
A wall on the side of the throne room collapsed, exposing the room to the outside air. A single, 80 foot long black dragon had broken through the barriers of Olympus. Percy grinned wickedly. Artemis let an arrow fly at the demigod, but he disappeared into the shadows. The gods looked for him until they spotted Percy Jackson atop the dragon.
"Thank you Moros," he said in the dragon's ear. Moros snorted smoke from his nostrils as he got ready to take off, his blazing eyes daring anyone to attack him. Lucky for them, and much to the dragon's discontent, they did not. "Remember what I said. I SHALL TEAR OLYMPUS APART, AND BURN IT TO THE GROUND!" Moros breathed a streak of red fire into the sky as he flew away, out of the view of the gods. All eyes turned to Zeus, staring wide-eyed at the gaping hole in his throne room, as his eyes flared with fury. He opened his mouth, authority clear in his voice.
"Send word to everyone. If Percy will not fight for us, so be it. He will fight for no one. Percy Jackson is now to be killed on first sight!"
The Next Day:
"Is that all you've got, Adrastos?" Percy challenged as he an his friend sparred in hand-to-hand combat. Adrastos smiled before throwing a three punch combo: a right hook, left jab and then a huge right uppercut. Percy shook his head, clearing away any pain he had felt, before grinning wickedly at his friend. "Now that's, what I'm talking about," Percy said, as he threw a few punches at his friend.
"You aint seen nothing yet, Perce," Adrastos replied. He sidestepped Percy's first punch, but got hit hard by a right jab. But he didn't back down, and retaliated with a barrage of jabs and upper cuts. Percy took the first few before getting knocked onto his butt. He kipped back up to his feet just like they do in the movies, before winking at Adrastos. He was greeted with another punch to the face. Percy punched back but was knocked over from an incredibly powerful right hook to his temple.
"Are you gonna let those treacherous bastards win you over, Perce?" Adrastos asked his friend in a challenging way, trying to rile him up yet prepare him for the war. Percy's eyes glowed dangerously. "Are you going to let them toil with you? Are you going to run back and redeem yourself in their eyes? HUH?" Adrastos yelled.
"NO!" Percy jumped at Adrastos, punching him with a huge right hook before he landed. He then dodged several combos from his friend before bombarding him with punches until Adrastos was on the ground, holding his head. Percy calmed down and took a step back.
"Sorry bud. I... I lost it," he apologized, but Adrastos cut him off, grinning like a madman. Percy put out his hand to help him up, and Adrastos took it gladly. He patter his friend on the back.
"No, don't apologize; it's good that you're riled up. You are ready," he said grinning. They fist-bumped before getting ready for the mission assigned the previous day by Erebus and Tartarus, to go into the depths of the pit and sway the great Wryms to fight for their cause. There were some rogue and renegade monsters down there, ancient and evil, but not in allegiance to the Primordials, so they were taking an elite task force of assassins and members of the Order of the Primordials, Percy being the leader and Adrastos as second in command.
They grabbed their weapons and armor, strapping each other in and making sure everything was intact. They were heading into what was known as the lawless part of the pit, meaning that although Tartarus was the spirit of the abyss, he had no control over the monsters and evil-doers roaming around or being tortured there. Because everyone who was going was blessed by Erebus and Tartarus one way or another, they could see in the dark to some extent. Percy didn't notice this until Adrastos mentioned why Percy could see at night and in their headquarters which was part of the lawful section of Tartarus' domain.
Percy opened the door to the briefing room where he was met with 5 demigods standing at attention. Percy immediately noticed the assassin who had delivered the messages to him the previous day. He nodded his head to Percy as the Champion stepped to the center of the room.
"No need to bow, soldiers. Now, I'm sure you all know why we are here?" he asked the room. None of the soldiers had a clue what was happening. One of the members, who had gold hair, identical to the glow of the sun, rose his hand.
"No sir, we were to understand you would brief us on the mission," he said formally.
"No need to sir me, soldier. Just call me Percy or Champion. Now, before we get into the briefing, I think it would be best to learn each other's names. I know this seems stupid, but we could be down there anywhere from 4 hours to a full day, and we are certainly going to be spending time with each other, so it's for the best. I'm sure you all know me. I am Percy Jackson, Champion of Tartarus and Erebus," he said. Adrastos stepped forward.
"I am Adrastos Godfried, son of Prometheus, Second in Command to Percy," he said confidently. Percy smirked at the act he was putting on before the son of Prometheus glared at him. He looked tough and sure as hell acted it during battle, but was a big softie on the inside.
The assassin who Percy had interacted with stepped forward.
"I am Evan Mason, son of Hermes and an Assassin of the Order," he said pridefully. Being an Assassin was a great honor, and only the best and stealthiest made it as one. You had to be adept, agile, sly (which him being a son of Hermes wasn't a challenge), and very skilled. They didn't just kill either; they were trackers, spies, and the top fighters working for Tartarus and Erebus. Percy Jackson nodded and grinned slightly. He could tell that Evan Mason was very skilled. He looked to be about 18 years old.
Evan sat back down, and the boy who had answered Percy's question earlier stood up. His eyes blazed like miniature suns, and he had golden blonde hair. He had a muscular build, like a basketball player. He stood about six feet tall, and had a scar running from under his eye to his nose.
"My name is Steven, but my friends call me Sonny. I am a son of Helios, who was Hyperion's son, and an Assassin of the Order," he said. Percy held back a smirk. Percy was sure he was mocked by his nickname a lot, but it was clear that you did not want to mess with him. He sat back down, and a girl who had blood-red eyes and a lean build stood up. She resembled Clarisse in a way.
"I'm Caitlin Carlson, daughter of Ares. I am also a warrior and soldier of the Order," she said. She had a massive broadsword sheathed on her back, and black and red-painted armor that was immensely intimidating. It looked like blood had been sprayed on her armor. She smiled smugly as she sat down, almost challenging anyone to a fight. To her sadness, no one did.
When she sat down, two people, a girl and a boy, stood up. They both had sandy-blonde hair and carried hunting knives at their sides and golden bows with large quivers on their backs, both standing at around five feet ten inches.
"My name is Tristan," the boy said, right before the girl opened her mouth, "and I'm Trinity," she said. They both then spoke in unison, "and we are twin children of Apollo, and the best archers in the Erebus and Tartarus' army." They smiled at each other before sitting down. Percy could tell the two of them most likely preformed this introduction whenever they met new people, and that they had a lot of personality.
Percy stood back up and got everyone's attention.
"Now that we know each other's names, I will begin the briefing," he said. Adrastos muttered something that sounded like, "about damn time," but shut up after Percy shot him a playful glare. "We are going to find and sway the great Wryms, ancient, long forgotten dragonkin beings that are in some of the deepest, darkest parts of Tartarus. Remember, we are going into the lawless area, or whatever you want to call it, of the pit, and we will not be greeting friendly monsters. It will be dark. It will be dangerous as well. I am sure you all can hold your own in a battle, otherwise you wouldn't be here right now, but you have to be more than aware down there. There are reasons us members of The Order of the Primordials venture down there only on special and necessary occasions. Today, is one of them," Percy announced. Everyone was listening intently.
"Remember to bring provisions, supplies, and water into your enchanted backs, for we may be down there anywhere from four hours to a full day, as I said earlier." Everyone nodded. Each warrior or member of the order had a special magical pack that was weightless and could fit a couple hundred pounds of stuff in it. It was a special creation from Tartarus, as he is the Primordial of Emptiness as well as evil and the spirit of the pit.
"Last thing everyone, just sit tight, we are almost through this. The Wryms, based on what Tartarus has told me, are prideful and restless creatures. They never sleep, and although are types of dragons, they have no wings, but instead four legs and an upper body, similar to a centaur but lizard-like. If you are to insult one of them or engage in combat with them, regardless of what they may say or do, you will doom us all. They can breathe small amounts of fire, wield weapons, and they have razor sharp claws and massive teeth. That's it everyone, we leave in five minutes," Percy said to the group. Everyone got up to get ready and pack their bags, when Adrastos stood up and got their attention.
"Wait, wait, wait, everybody; one last thing. Stay with each other down there, and let's kick some ass."
1 Hour Later
"That was too damn close guys. We need to be more careful next time," Percy yelled over the noise being emitted from the pit. Growling monsters and screams of agony echoed throughout the chasm, which was quite disturbing to say the least. The squadron of 7 demigods continued to trek through the abyss, but had many near-death encounters all ready. They had not only run into ghastly apparitions of deadly beings, which had tried to possess several of the demigods and like the sirens convince them to plunge themselves into the darkness, but they also ran into massive rock giants similar to Magmordians giants that were being housed in the Chamber of Monsters. These rock giants had just brought down a cliff the group of warriors had stood on the edge of. Tristan almost fell off and Caitlin had a massive gash across her leg. Lucky for her, Trinity, being a daughter of Apollo healed her up with ambrosia and nectar fast, making her good as new.
Percy led the way, following the instructions of Erebus as to where to find him. The Primordial had told him to search for a slightly volcanic area at the bottom of one crevasse, for the Wryms loved hot climates and fiery surroundings. They were almost there as well; the temperature was increasing rapidly and the air was becoming more arid.
"It is so damn hot," Evan complained. Adrastos scowled at the assassin, clear annoyance on his face.
"Complain again and I'll feed you to the Wryms," Adrastos threatened. That shut him up, and while Evan's face was white the rest of the group was chuckling.
Percy's eyes quickly snapped back to the air in front of him. The rest of the task force was laughing, and bonding closer through the experience, but Percy Jackson knew something was wrong. He felt it in the air, although he could not see it. His instincts and senses were acting up, and he knew plenty well to trust his instincts, albeit to what others may have told him.
"What's the matter, Perce? Live a little," Adrastos mused before patting him on the back. Percy held up a hand to silence him, and Adrastos knew at that moment something was wrong. The air grew colder. A raspy voice stretched through the darkness, encircling the group, chanting in an unknown language.
"BATTLE POSITIONS!" Percy yelled. He put up Riptide and Adrastos took at his hulking mace. Tristan and Trinity drew their bows, glancing about their perimeter, searching for anything unusual. That's when all Hades broke loose.
A twisting vortex emerged before the group of demigods. The purple ripple in the air spat out a being, and it definitely wasn't human.
It stood at about fifteen feet tall. It had faded purple skin, almost borderline gray, and it look like it could bench-press a bus. It's torso was exposed, and the demigods looked at the largest eight-pack they had ever monster had shoulder pauldrons, bracers, a helmet that spiked up into the darkness, a waist guard and metal combat boots as armor. It wielded a gigantic two-handed war axe, which was serrated; made to kill and separate flesh. But that wasn't the intimidating part.
It's eyes blazed green fire, menacing and piercing through the darkness. It opened its mouth and roared, revealing its sharp fangs. Sonny gulped.
It spoke in an incomprehensible language, before cocking its head to the side.
"English, perhaps?" he boomed. His voice was deep and menacing, like Atlas' when Percy fought him, but filled with much more evil. Percy nodded in response. The monster grinned wickedly.
"What are you doing down here, mortal?" he asked. Percy stepped forward, showing no fear on his face, although he was having second thoughts about whether or not they could take down the monster. It looked more demonic than like a monster, though.
"We are seeking an audience with the Wryms, so that they may join the cause of Erebus and Tartarus," Percy said. The demon laughed maniacally, causing most of the squadron to flinch.
"You fools! The Wryms are too stubborn and headstrong to take orders from anyone. You will never succeed in your task," it said.
"What are you?" Adrastos asked in curiosity. The demon regarded the son of Prometheus, green eyes blazing with life.
"I am a the Overseer of Death, an ancient being long forgotten. I am a Wrath-Bringer, banished into the pit for an eternity, the only one who still remains. I have been down here for eons, restless, and waiting for vengeance. I take my anger out on petty souls who venture too deep into Tartarus. My brothers are in a slumber far too deep to awake from. The first-born of the Wrath-Bringers, my name is Brutallus, the eldest son of Gaea," he said.
"Gaea?" Percy asked. The demon rolled its eyes.
"Are you hard of hearing, mortal? Yes, Gaea! In fact, me and my two brothers were born before the Titans, the three great Cyclops and the Hekatonkheires, but we were long forgotten, cast down here into the depths of Tartarus for being to gruesome and violent. Our own parents thought we were demons and monstrosities. Of course, they were right, but it still hurt," he sighed. The fire in his eyes died down a little, and Percy almost felt bad for Brutallus, but didn't show it.
"So, why are you here?" Percy asked, lowering his sword slightly. Adrastos kept his mace up though, ready for anything, and Caitlin held her broadsword at the ready. Sonny had his spear at the ready, and Tristan and Trinity had two arrows knocked on their bows. Brutallus' eyes quickly relight, flaming back to life.
"Ah, yes. I wish to fight the "great Percy Jackson," myself. I want to see if the rumors are true about the rumors of you being the greatest swordsman of all time," he said. Percy winced ever so slightly, but it went unnoticed.
"What's the catch?" Percy asked. Brutallus smiled evilly.
"If you win, I will let you pass and get on with your quest. Hell, I might even fight for you in this upcoming war I've heard of," he said. Percy waited for him to go on.
"And if he loses?" Adrastos asked. Brutallus' grin grew.
"Why, I will kill him and all of his friends, of course." Adrastos stared wide-eyed at Percy. Percy stayed composed, though he knew the greatest fight of his life was about to occur.
"Perce... You don't have to do this-" Adrastos started.
"No. I want to," he said. He gestured for Adrastos to come closer, and Percy then whispered in his ear, "If I lose, there is no way you all can win. Try to slow him down and get the hell out of here." Adrastos nodded grimly. Percy took his bag off and held Riptide out in front of him, staring at his sword he had used for over ten years. He started talking to Anuklusmos. "Ready for another battle, old friend?" he asked, before turning to face Brutallus.
"Percy Jackson, are you ready to meet your demise?" Brutallus asked, swinging his massive axe before the young demigod. Percy smirked.
"Are you?" he asked. Brutallus' eyes glowed dangerously, before he laughed, and grabbed his war axe. He began pulling on the weapon, until it split into two massive axes, and he wielded one in each hand They were just as menacing and deadly as the large axe and look even more intimidating as two weapons. Percy's eyes widened.
"Foolish mortal. Prepare yourself for your eminent doom!" he yelled before charging at Percy. Percy spun Riptide around his hand, and yelled a battle cry as he met Brutallus' charge, both moving with blinding speed.
Somewhere in the USA:
Artemis and her hunters had been sent by Zeus to find Percy and any unknown, awakened monsters and eliminate them immediately. They had been searching for these monsters for five years, but now they knew for sure what was happening. They were being awakened by Tartarus so that they could fight in the war that was supposed to happen very soon. Artemis looked around, sensing that nothing was nearby, as they stumbled across a clearing in the lush wooded forests of Montana. The trees soared upward hundreds of feet, and the chirps of birds and animals could be heard throughout the pleasant air.
"Alright girls, I think this is a good spot to set up camp," Artemis said, putting down her pack. The girls proceeded to set up camp, being ordered around by their lieutenant Thalia and her second in command Phoebe. They started unpacking their bags, and quickly set up their silver tents. Their hunting wolves and falcons circled the camp, ready to alert the hunters of any impeding danger. Artemis paced back and forth, still having bad feelings about what happened in the council. Why Percy? Why? She thought to herself, clear distress on her face. Thalia noticed and made her way to Artemis.
"Milady, what seems to be the matter?" the daughter of Zeus asked. Artemis regarded her lieutenant with sad eyes, a grave expression on her face. She had not told the hunt of what had happened the day before at the council, and how it was clearly apparent that they would lose the war, lest Percy Jackson was killed.
"I have bad tidings from Olympus, Thalia, and I will inform you all of them after dinner tonight. Do not fret though, my dear," she said. Thalia nodded, not satisfied with, as she left to socialize with the hunters. Artemis sighed and went into her tent, lying down to take a quick nap before dinner.
Later that Night:
The fire glowed warmly, as Artemis and the Hunt gathered around to share news and stories. The girls were talking about their favorite monster kills or favorite moments where they had hurt boys, when Artemis silenced the group. The hunters quickly stopped talking and regarded their lady with respect.
"Girls, I know you all know I was on Olympus the other day, and what I have learned and what happened was not in the slightest good," she started. The hunt exchanged nervous looks, before Artemis continued talking. "We were told, as you all know, that Percy Jackson was to be the deciding factor in the war with Erebus. What we didn't know was that Tartarus was also awakened and leading the enemy, and that all these waking monsters are his doing. But it gets worse," she said. The hunters grew pale. How could anything be worse than that.
"A man appeared during our talk. It was Percy," she said. The hunters looked almost happy, as Percy was the only decent male alive, and although still male they tolerated him. But their expression changed to one of curiosity, for Artemis said that was a bad thing.
"Lady Artemis, how is that bad news?" Phoebe asked. Artemis sighed once more.
"Percy Jackson was the one who told us about Tartarus' involvement. Also, when Zeus asked if he would fight for us, he said no. We thought he wasn't going to take sides, when we learned the horrible truth. Percy Jackson is now the Champion of Tartarus and Erebus, and will be leading the enemy in the war to come," she said. Some of the girls gasped. Thalia started to cry. Her best friend had fallen to darkness, and she had stood idly by as it happened. She thought she should have stood up to her father, but her fear of what would happen and the craziness of that entire situation with her deceased brother Zade had stopped her from doing this.
"Girls, that is not it. We have been ordered by my father Zeus that we are not only hunting these ancient monsters, but we are to kill Percy Jackson on first sight."
In Tartarus:
The sound of metal screeching against metal echoed throughout the pit. Percy and Brutallus had just met each other's weapons in their initial charge. Brutallus attacked Percy with impossible speed, forcing the son of Poseidon on the defensive. He hacked away at the young demigod with his two battle axes, using them in perfect harmony as he ripped through the air. Percy knew he had to get under his guard, but did not know how. He needed more time. Brutallus brought both axes up, intending to slash down at Percy, but was confused when he vanished.
"Show yourself, coward!" the demon roared. Percy stepped out of the shadows behind the son of Gaea, and slashed at his back with Riptide. Brutallus sensed the sword striking at him from behind, and parried at the last second. Percy was flabbergasted; no one he had fought before possessed such skill. Brutallus then pushed Percy back into a wall, trapping him. The demon snapped his fingers, and a strange aura filled the air. Percy was confused at what had happened.
"There. Now no magic can be used in this area, by you or me. We shall continue to fight, weapon against weapon," he said. Percy nodded grimly, knowing that it would only get harder from here. He would have to rely on his skills and technique, and only that.
Percy squatted down, he strong legs flexing as he got ready to jump. Brutallus put his axes up in a defensive stance, waiting for Percy Jackson to make the first move. Perseus then jumped high, higher than it was humanly possible to jump. So high he surprised himself. He elevated about eight feet off the ground, before stabbing at Brutallus' chest. The Wrath-Bringer tried to parry with one axe, but the force from Percy's strike was too much for anyone, even this ancient being. The demon made contact with Riptide, but Percy still made a cut in his chest. Brutallus roared in pain, but only looked pissed off, not hurt.
Percy attacked with new-found confidence. Although he had not injured his opponent, he had still made contact, and that was a great feat alone. He began slashing at the unprotected areas of his enemy, which were his thighs and torso, for his armor only covered his shoulders, waist, head, and his legs up to his knees. Brutallus was forced on the defensive once more, until Percy made his mistake.
The Champion of Erebus and Tartarus tried to stab at the Wrath-Bringer's torso, but realized his mistake only when it was too late. He had no shield, and having thrust his sword arm forward, he was leaving his body exposed and was in no condition to make any sudden movements. Brutallus noticed this and knocked Percy's sword out of his hand. Percy tried to dive to his sword, but Brutallus was too fast. He brought one of his axes down hard, making a gash that ranged from Percy's neck to his navel. Percy stumbled back and fell over.
"PERCY!" Adrastos yelled as he tried to run to his friend's side. When he was about five feet away, he was knocked away from Percy with such force that he flew against a nearby rock, completely shattering the stone. His eyes rolled back into his head as he slipped out of consciousness. Trinity and Tristan immediately ran to Adrastos' side, trying to force-feed him ambrosia.
Percy's just was gushing blood, and he knew he would bleed out soon. If I am to die here, I will go down with honor, he thought to himself. He knew his sword would reappear in his pocket if he didn't pick it up, but time was precious, and he needed to kill some.
"Get up Perseus. Prove to me that the rumors are true. Fight me like a man!" Brutallus roared. Percy's eyes glowed dangerously as he got up, still bleeding. He stumbled over to his sword, and surprisingly, the eldest son of Gaea didn't try to stop him. Percy picked up his sword, before falling over. He was losing too much blood.
"Is this how the former Hero of Olympus is going to die? Like a coward?" The Wrath-Bringer taunted. Percy pushed himself up, getting onto his feet slowly, still struggling to stay standing. He knew he was going to die, but he couldn't just die now. He had a mission. He had an army to lead. And for those reasons he didn't.
Percy looked down at his chest, as the wounds were closing up on their own. Brutallus was astonished, and rage filled his eyes. Even Percy was shocked.
My Champion, you cannot fall here. Tartarus' voice said in Percy's head. I have healed you, but the blood you lost is still a lot. You will feel light-headed after your fight, but go! Win! Bring honor upon the Order of the Primordials! he boomed. Percy smiled.
"What trickery is this?! Brutallus roared. Percy grinned wickedly before charging the demon with vigor. The demigods cheered for him, and Percy felt completely rejuvenated. Brutallus was still shocked, but when his opponent charged him, he yelled a battle cry before charging with regained strength. Percy jumped, bringing Riptide down on the Wrath-Bringer's helmet, leaving a huge dent in the metal. Brutallus roared, ripping the helmet off, revealing his purplish-gray head. He had no hair, but had demonic harm sticking up from his skull.
Percy landed, cracking the stone beneath him, as he charged again. Brutallus swung both axes at the demigod, who rolled out-of-the-way, and slashed at his thigh. Riptide pierced through the demon's flesh, leaving an incredibly deep wound in the bulky thigh of the Wrath-Bringer. His cry echoed across the abyss so loudly, that the demigods held their ears. Brutallus, grabbed his injured leg, as his black blood oozed out of his cut. His leg was not supporting his weight well, and, taking advantage of this, Percy swept his legs out from under him. The son of Poseidon leapt upon Brutallus' chest, point his blade at his neck.
"I believe I win," Percy said. Brutallus was furious, but held up his end of the bargain grudgingly. He dropped his weapons and held up his hands, admitting defeat, albeit his reluctance to do so.
"So be it, Percy Jackson. I have not had a fight like that in eons. I will hold up my end of our agreement. You may pass," he said, as he hobbled onto his feet. Percy nodded his head in thanks, stumbling as a wave of nausea hit him. He had lost an immense amount of blood.
"Will you fight for us?" Percy asked. Brutallus shrugged his massive shoulders.
"Perhaps, young one, in due time. We shall meet again, Perseus," the Wrath-Bringer said as he disappeared in a flashing purple light. Percy sighed in relief, before falling onto his back. Tristan and Trinity rushed to his aid, as a light-headed Adrastos hobbled over to his friend. Caitlin, Evan, and Sonny had huge grins on their faces.
"That was incredibly, Champion Percy!" Caitlin congratulated. Percy smiled weakly, as Tristan chanted in ancient Greek, holding his hand over Percy's chest. Trinity fed him ambrosia and nectar, causing Percy to be able to stand again.
"Dude, I knew you were good. But that, was amazing," Evan said. Adrastos patted him on the back. Percy just smiled and laughed at them, but knew in his heart that he would have lost if not for Tartarus' help. Brutallus was the fastest, strongest, and most skilled fighter he had ever seen, not to mention the magic skills he surely possessed. Percy opened up his shirt and looked at the massive scar on his chest. It was diagonally range across his torso, starting up by his color bone, and going all the way across his abdomen and to the side of his navel.
"Holy shit, that hurt," he gasped, wincing as he touched his new scar. Adrastos grinned wickedly, and Percy raised an eyebrow.
"You may not like it," Adrastos said, pointing at his scar. "But I think it's badass!" he exclaimed, earning hearty chuckles from the group. Percy let them all laugh a little, before getting back to business.
"We literally have been down here six hours, and we still haven't gotten to the Wryms. Let's hurry up so we can get back to base and have a feast in our honor," he said to the group, who agreed that would be nice. They put their packs on once more, and began to trek down the switch-back leading to the fiery glow in the darkness below.
They climbed down the cliff side for what seemed like hours, before they really started to notice how hot it was.
The temperature was now upwards of 140 degrees, and they were all sweating like pigs. This volcanic are of Tartarus was truly the worst-place on earth, in Percy's eyes. The only person not bothered by the heat was Sonny, because he inherited resistance of heat from his father Helios. they continued to walk deeper into the volcanic area, careful to avoid the lava flowing around them. They made it across the small valley of magma towards what looked like buildings made of obsidian and lava-rock. They were going to go inside when Percy stopped his friends, holding up his arms. They backed up from the door, as about fifty creatures walked out, clad in armor with weapons. They looked even scarier than their description, and Percy noticed that Tartarus was wrong. These creatures did have wings.
The Wryms walked out of the building, and Percy got a good look at them. They were about the size of a small elephant, with black and red reptilian skin. They resembled dragons, for they had small wings upon their backs. They also had the head of a dragon, but their body is where they were different. They had muscular torsos, and four legs, similar to the configuration of a centaur. They had long dragon-like tails that emerged about five feet from their rear-ends, and had sharp teeth and menacing claws. They had arms, giving them six limbs total, and each wielded either a sword, mace, axe, or a combination of the three.
One Wrym stepped forward. He was clearly their leader, being the biggest one of them all. He wielded a massive sword and shield, and was clearly ready to fight at any moment. His ancient voice boomed over the valley, and although he was part dragon, he could surprisingly speak.
"Who dares entire my domain?!" he boomed. Percy stepped forward, and made eye contact with the large Wrym.
"One who demands your allegiance!" Percy rumbled back. Although looking inferior to the monster, the leader of the Wryms could see the dangerous eyes of Percy, and it could feel the intensely powerful aura he was emitting.
"You fool! You think that you can waltz in here, and demand my respect! Who sent you, courier?" he asked. Percy began to grow angry. He was no courier; he was the greatest fighter alive, even greater than the mighty Achilles.
"Oh, Only Erebus, Lord of Darkness and Tartarus himself, who is so kind as to let you all live here in peace!" Percy snapped. It was clear that the Wryms hesitated at their words, but their pride was too great to take orders from the young demigod.
"And why, might I ask, that they demand we fight?" their leader asked.
"Because we are overthrowing the Olympian gods, and we will succeed. It is fated that we will win, because I am fighting for the Primordials," Percy said. The leader of the Wryms was curious as to whom he was speaking to.
"Who are you?" he asked. Percy smiled.
"Percy Jackson, former Hero of Olympus and the Champion of Tartarus and Erebus," he said confidently. The massive Wrym's eyes widened. Percy was almost shocked that they had heard of him this far down in the pit. "Who are you?" asked Percy.
"I am King Draken of the Wryms. If you are Percy Jackson, then we have made our decision. We shall prepare for war, for it is clear that you will emerge victorious. But what's in it for us?" King Draken asked. Percy shuffled nervously. He had not been given any orders as what to tell them, but he thought of something on the spot.
"You and your people will become the immortal rulers of any volcanic domain, and shall be deemed the Lords of Fire," he thought. It sounded corny to him, but it sure worked. King Draken smiled, revealing sharp teeth, as he exchanged happy looks with his colleagues. He turned back to Percy.
"Tell your masters we will fight. Warriors, prepare for war!" he roared, breathing small bursts of fire into the air. The other Wryms did as well. It sure was an intimidating war-cry. Percy looked around the civilization, seeing other blasts of fire going up into the air, revealing where the other Wryms were. There were probably around two thousand total, which was a huge force. Percy bowed before the king, and his friends did as well, before turning and leaving the fiery place.
The way back was much less treacherous as before. They only had two encounters with deadly monsters, and although they wouldn't of been able to take them alone (except for Percy), they worked well as a unit to bring them down quickly.
When they finally came back to headquarters, they went to report to their masters the success, which was taken well by the happy Primordials. They then had a feast in their honor, and went to their respective rooms. Percy took a shower, before falling onto his bed. He was so exhausted at another long day, and they had been gone around 16 hours.
"Sleep tight, Perce," he said to himself, as he slipped into the dreamless sleep he deserved.
How was that! My longest chapter yet. The other characters, the demigods, will make minor appearances, but will still be part of the story. I thought you guys would like this chapter, and I was feeling like making up the whole Brutallus and Wrath-Bringer thingy because it is always fun to put your own twist on mythology. I mean, there really is no telling what you can do with myths and legends, and I really love that. Sorry it took so long to update; I had a tournament, and finals in school, and injuries and it was just awful. I felt really bad and decided to write a really long chapter for you guys.
Thanks for the support, be sure to review! Review! Review! :)! They are much appreciated, and so is critisicm. Anything to make me a better writer.
I may start another story, but not yet. I will probably start it closer to the end of this one, which is about 2/5 of the way done. See you guys soon! I'll try to update a lot this weekend.
Review Please!
