A/N-I'm kind of sad about posting this-I worked so hard on it and it's been sitting in my docs for around two weeks so seeing it so often, I was really proud of it. Anyway, it has 11k+ words so settle in and grab some tea if you dare read this in one sitting.

Month One

3rd Person-

"How are you feeling, Percy?" Artemis asked the demigod, leaning above him.

"Much better." He confirmed, propping himself up on both elbows. "I don't feel like stabbing anyone."

The goddess smirked. "That's good. Apollo made sure that potion would work."

"Did he ever find out what Gaea had me under?"

"When Morpheus put you in that coma, Gaea twisted images within your mind making you believe we were bad and the titans were good."

"I figured as much." Percy peered up at the goddess. "Listen, Artemis-I'm sorry I tried to kill you and attacked the camps. I didn't know what I was doing-I want to fix i-"

"Shhh." Artemis interrupted. "It's okay. No one blames you for anything that happened that night. You know what, you can fix it by helping us in the war. Help us win this war."

Percy nodded then swung his legs over the bed, getting up.

"W-what are you doing?" The goddess asked, bewildered.

"I'm going to train, what else is there to do?" Percy brushed off his Camp Half blood t-shirt and denim jeans before heading to the door.

Artemis had a handle on the door. "The former heroes have a rigorous program in store-I think it's best if you wait a while. You just took a potion barely five minutes ago-what if there are side affects?"

"Are you always this worried?" Percy chuckled. "I'm fine. I can do this. I want to do this."

Artemis searched into his sea green eyes which held absolute determination. "Promise me one thing."

"Anything."

"We need a safe word. Whenever you want to stop or don't feel safe, say it-I'll be there."

"Right..." Percy thought for a while. "How about blue moon?"

"Blue moon it is." The goddess smiled. She opened the door and let Percy out.

Before she closed the door, Percy looked back at the goddess. "Will you come back later tonight? I just want to talk-it gets pretty lonely by myself."

Artemis' heart threatened to break. "I'll be here."

Percy was on Olympus training with Adonis. Zeus, Artemis, and Apollo stood by, watching his progress.

"Let's try again," Adonis prompted. "Here's an apple-look me in the eyes and say 'take this apple'."

Percy turned the green apple in his hands a few time before looking into Adonis' eyes. They were a rich, deep brown much like his curly haired that framed his face.

"Take this apple." The demigod put as much persuasion into his voice as he could muster. Adonis' hand started drifting towards the object but the former hero shook his head.

"Not quite. Try again."

Percy exhaled, summoning whatever power he had within him. "Take. this. apple." He repeated, adding infliction on every word.

Adonis' hand lurched forward involuntarily but they stopped short of Percy's palm. "You're getting close. Say it as if your life depended on it."

The boy nodded, feeling a warm feeling spread throughout his body. "Take this apple."

Adonis' fingers grasped around the apple. "Nice job."

Percy smiled but it was clear that he was worn out. He was used to being thrown into battle and his ADHD taking over so simply charm speaking involved a logical process which was new to him.

"Alright," Adonis clapped his hands gleefully. "Let's go again."

Percy nodded and took the apple back into his hands, prepared to start again.

The goddess of the moon was bewildered, looking around at the men the room. They weren't protesting.

"No-he did what you asked him to do. He needs his rest." Artemis objected, shaking her head. "We've been at this for nearly six hours-no breaks. I think it's time to call it quits."

"He can push through it." Adonis insisted, his jaw locking. He didn't trust her. "Come on Percy, again."

Percy stared into Adonis eyes, his mouth opening. "Take this ap-"

"Look at him-he's clearly exhausted. He's just a teenager."

"Artemis." Her father snapped. "He's a teenager with fate of Olympus resting on his shoulders. Perseus-again."

"Wow, no pressure or anything." Percy chuckled nervously. "I can do this, Artemis. Don't worry."

The goddess wanted to protest but the demigod threw her a reassuring smile, causing her worry to fade away.

"I know you can, Percy." Artemis sighed. "Alright-let's go again."

"Take one," Percy clapped his hands like a clapper board from a movie take then faced Adonis. "Take this apple."

Adonis' grasp almost reached the apple but not quite. "Again."

This cycle went on and on until Percy managed to charmspeak Adonis into taking the apple consistently. It was past midnight and all of the gods had left, leaving Adonis and Percy.

"I think we're good here." Adonis concluded. "You've got the hang of it. Get some rest, kid-you look terrible."

It was true. For an eighteen year old, Percy had gray bluish bags underneath his eyes and his face was pale. "Okay. I'll see you tomorrow."

"Bright and early!" Adonis yelled as the demigod walked past the throne room, down the elevator, and to the hotel.

Percy drifted toward his bed, exhaustion taking him over.

Five hours later, Percy heard a knock at the door.

He sat up in bed and yawned. "It's open!" He yelled.

The door creaked and the silver eyed goddess emerged. "Hey-I'm sorry about the hour."

Percy grinned. "It's fine. You came."

Artemis shook a large brown bag in front of him. "I brought spaghetti and garlic bread. I figured you might be hungry."

Percy's stomach growled in response which caused the goddess to smile. "I'll take that as yes." She closed the door and made her way over to the bed. Percy helped set out the food and they began to eat.

The demigod noticed how stunning the goddess looked in the moonlight. Her raven hair cascaded past her shoulders and her silver eyes illuminated.

A warmth spread across her cheeks. He was staring at her. She hoped she didn't have anything stuck in her teeth. "What?"

Percy shook his head, looking away. "Hey," He smiled, nudging her with a breadstick. "What do you call a fake noodle?"

Artemis shrugged, smiling.

"An impasta."

The goddess laughed at the terrible joke as did the demigod, both letting their troubles slip away and enjoying the company of one another.

"Okay-I've got one. You ready for it?" Artemis smirked.

"Shoot." Percy dared.

"What do Italians eat on Halloween?" She paused and when there was no response, she continued, "Fetuccini A-fraid-o."

Percy chuckled. "Good one. I didn't know you had it in you."

Artemis tipped her invisible hat. "You can't be the only funny person around."

"That's true." Percy stretched out, lying down on the bed. The goddess joined him and together, they stared at the white ceiling.

"Look at us, Artemis." Percy smiled lopsidedly. "Here we are, practically in a cease fear with Gaea and her giants, eating spaghetti and staring at a blank ceiling. I've been so used to being in danger that it's the strangest thing-acting normal."

"I'm sorry about all this Percy. I know you didn't ask for all these quests and saving the world part two. You should be off to college and being stressed over finals, not saving the world."

"College? Me? Artemis, please-enough with the jokes. I can't take it anymore." Percy grinned and the goddess giggled.

"No, but seriously," Percy turned his head to face her. "I wouldn't trade this for anything the world. It gets dangerous and scary at times but look on the brightside, I got to meet you."

A blush spread across her cheeks. "That's true."

"I mean, who else would bring me spaghetti at 6 in the morning?"

Artemis smiled then nodded. "I do understand where you're coming from, Percy. I think you need some more normal moments."

"Like this?" Percy questioned.

"Like this."

"Tell me something no one else knows about you."

"Hey, just because we shared pasta jokes doesn't mean we're there yet." Artemis laughed. "Okay...um, got one. I like to watch reruns of Disney movies."

Percy threw his head back, laughter escaping his lips. "OK, wow-I didn't see that one coming. What's your favorite Disney movie?"

"Hercules." The goddess answered immediately then smiled. "Just kidding-The goofy movie. Hands down."

"I have to say-eye to eye is a pretty catchy tune."

"Ok-your turn. What's your favorite book?"

"Do I look like I read? Girl, please."

"My b-I know you have a reputation to uphold-gods forbid someone catches you reading." Artemis rolled her eyes. "Hmmm...Favorite actor?"

"Good question," Percy commented before snapping his fingers. "Got it! Logan Lerman."

"You know, he kind of looks like you."

"I know right!" The son of Poseidon exclaimed. "It's like he could even play me in a movie or something. In fact, I've even got a title-Percy Jackson and The Olympians: The Lightning thief."

Artemis laughed at his reference to his first quest. "Hmm I think I'd skip it. I mean, honestly, mortals screw up everything when it comes to Greek mythology."

"True, I mean what if the movie included a goddess-let's say Persephone-that wasn't even in the first book. That'd be insane."

"Oh now you're saying there would be books about you?"

"Of course. One for each of the quests I've gone on."

"Ah yes then the books would be made into movies."

"Yep." Percy popped the 'p.'

Thunder clapped twice and Artemis sighed. "I have to go."

Percy smiled sadly, his sea green eyes bearing into the goddess'. "Okay."

Artemis began to glow but before she could leave, Percy reached out for her hand.

"Hey-um thanks for stopping by. I know you've got better things to do but I appreciated it."

"I enjoyed spending time with you. I think sometimes, even a goddess needs a break from the supernatural."

Percy nodded then diverted his eyes and soon, Artemis was gone.

So far, the training with Adonis was downright tortuous. The former hero would wake him up at any given hour and today was no exception. Percy Jackson was up at the glorious hour of 3:45 a.m. He had trained all morning and all night only to be awoken again.

"Now," Adonis started, tossing his apple into the air a few times. Percy glared at the fruit; he hated it with a passion.

"You've mastered the art of charmspeak on people, now it's time you learned how to do it on an object."

Percy's face morphed into one of confusion but before he could say anything, his vision caught sight of an object hurling towards him at an inhuman speed. The demigods' reflexes kicked in and his right hand shot it, capturing the object just inches away from his face.

"You did not just throw that apple at my face."

"And you did not stop it like I asked."

Percy was about to retort with a sarcastic comment but just then the goddess of the moon walked in, followed by her twin brother and her father. They took their respective seats in their thrones and Artemis met Percy's eyes, giving him a reassuring nod.

"It's a little early to be training isn't it?"

"Ah but Lord Zeus, if Gaea doesn't rest; we don't rest."

"I see," The King of the Gods adjusted his tie before nodding in Adonis' direction. "Proceed."

Percy threw the apple back at Adonis who caught it immediately.

"Alright Perce, this is our last week of instruction together."

"Thank the gods."

Adonis cracked a small smile at the comment before continuing. "I've managed to teach you a lifetime worth of skill in just four weeks. You done everything I've asked of you with minimal complaints. Now, this last trick will definitely save your life."

"I do like staying alive." Percy said.

"Must be nice." Adonis glared at Artemis who threw back a proud smile. "Anyway, I'm going to throw this apple at you. Repeat the word stop in your head a few times and it should-"

"Stop." Percy finished. "Got it."

"On 3, Percy." Adonis pulled back his dominant hand, prepared to launch the object. "1…2!"

Percy reflexively caught the ball. "What happened to three?!"

"Expect the unexpected."

The son of Poseidon sighed, threw the apple back to Adonis, and prepared himself mentally. Without hesitation, the apple propelled toward his face and for the first few milliseconds, Percy thought 'stop, stop, stop!' but when it came to close for comfort, he ducked.

The apple barely grazed his shoulder before rolling on to the floor. Percy jogged in front of it, capturing it between his heel and the floor. Had the apple rolled any further, it would've fallen off the edge.

"Careful, Perce, we can't have you falling off Olympus again." Adonis chuckled.

Artemis glared at the former hero until his laughter faded. He cleared his throat.

"Let's try that again."

Percy nodded and threw the apple back to Adonis who threw it right back once more.

The son of Poseidon repeated the word 'stop' several times but when the apple kept advancing; he caught it.

"We're not playing baseball here." Adonis said. "You managed to slow it down though, and that is progress."

Percy threw the fruit back and Adonis returned the action. Percy managed to slow it down once more but he turned his shoulder slightly which caused the apple to bounce off of him, rolling back towards Adonis. Adonis used the top of his toe to throw the apple back into the air, then bounced it off his knee a few times before catching it.

Percy gave a small smile at the action; it reminded him of the time he and Annabeth had played hacky sack during his first quest. Artemis was transfixed by his smile and sighed. She'd give anything to know what he was thinking about.

"Artemis, do you mind if I borrow your knife for a sec?"

The goddess raised an eyebrow at Adonis' request but nonetheless unsheathed her hunting knife from her waist then handed it to me.

"Thanks." Adonis said quietly before facing Percy. "I'm thinking we need a different plan, perhaps you've grown weary of the apple."

"You think?" Percy's voice was filled with sarcasm.

Adonis smiled, pacing around a few times. "You know, I get it. It's five in the morning, you don't want to be here—I don't want to be here. I'm thinking we need a different approach-a quicker one, if you will."

Zeus and Apollo shared a similar frown—they knew charmspeaking an inanimate object was nearly impossible; it could take years to master. What could Adonis possibly do to speed up the process?

"You ready?"

"Sure." Percy shrugged nonchalantly.

The former hero smiled then cocked his arm back. Percy squinted to see the object and noticed light reflecting off the sharp edge of the metal. Then the butcher knife was flying straight at his chest. A scream caught in his throat. He threw up his hand, practically screeching 'STOP!' in his mind. The knife stopped in midair, just hairs away from his face. It just stayed there; suspended.

Adonis clapped, his amber eyes shining. "I knew it!"

Percy stared at him as his critical thinking skills slowly trickled back. "What the hell, Adonis?"

Several things happened all at once. Now that Percy's concentration was broken, the knife clattered to the floor, harmless. Zeus joined in on Adonis' clapping; thoroughly impressed. Percy let loose several curses that would've caused his mother to cry and Artemis, who was shocked by Adonis' action, snapped out of it.

Artemis shot off her throne like a rocket, simultaneously morphing into her godly form. A heartbeat later, she had Adonis pinned up the wall, swathed in an intense golden light that lit up the throne room.

Apollo craned his head and whispered, "Holy smokes."

"Whoa! Whoa!" Adonis yelled, arms failing in the light. "You need to check yourself. Percy wasn't in any danger."

Thrones began to tremble and the sky was cloaked by darkness. Artemis' golden light flared and for a moment, Percy thought she had killed Adonis. Again.

"Artemis!" Percy shrieked, darting to them. "Stop!"

There was a crackling sound, like air heated and charged after a lightning strike. Zeus had his master bolt in hand, glaring at his daughter.

Artemis remained in her godly form but jerked free, letting Adonis go. The former hero landed on his feet and staggered to the side as he rose.

The goddess hummed and started toward Adonis, but Percy stood firmly in the middle. "Okay. You two need to freaking stop."

Adonis straightened his shirt. "I'm not doing anything."

"You threw a freaking knife at me," Percy shot back which caused Artemis to tremble in anger. "Please, stop."

An arm appeared in the golden light and fingers brushed along Percy's cheek. The touch was soft and brief, so quick that no one but Percy noticed it. Artemis' light flickered out. She stood in her human form, trembling with barely restrained rage, her eyes glowing and sharp like silver icicles.

"What the hell were you thinking? Wait, I know-you weren't!"

"He wasn't in any danger! If I thought for a second that he couldn't do it, I wouldn't have thrown it at him!"

Artemis sidestepped the demigod, her hand curled into a fist. "But there was no way you would've known he could do it! Not one hundred percent-you risked his life!"

Adonis shook his head, turning to Percy. "I swear you were never in any danger, Percy. If I thought you couldn't stop it, I wouldn't have done it."

Artemis cursed and Percy moved, blocking her.

"Dude, you're really pushing it." Apollo slid in behind his sister.

"I should turn him into a jackalope." The goddess growled.

Adonis' jaw jutted out. "Okay. I'm sorry but if he hadn't been able to stop it, I would've. Just like you would've if you could. No harm. No foul."

A whirlwind of rage was building inside Artemis and even Zeus doubted he could stop her if she went after the former hero. Zeus cleared his throat, descending from his throne.

"I think that's enough excitement for tonight."

"But my Lord—"

"Adonis, I really think you should leave." Percy said meaningfully. "Okay? I think you need to go."

"Alright." Adonis started toward the elevator then stopped. "You did great, Percy. I don't think you realize how amazing that was."

Percy didn't look up but exhaled deeply when the elevator doors shut.

"No more," Artemis turned to her father, voice low. "Absolutely no more."

"The fates have chosen this path for Perseus. It is part of the prophecy and therefore, out of my hands." Zeus sighed. "I'm sorry, Percy. Good luck on the remainder of your training."

The teen nodded and diverted his eyes as the god flashed out. Apollo shot his sister an apologetic look before flashing out as well.

Artemis shook her head, walking to the hearth stiffly.

Slowly, Percy turned around. In the fire, her eyes still glowed. Up close, they were sort of beautiful—odd but really striking.

"He could've killed you, Percy. He had no right to do that-we expected him to train you, not kill you. I'm going to give him back alley plastic surgery." Artemis' jaw locked. "I can't—"

"Artemis." Percy whispered.

"—believe he did that." All of the sudden, Percy wrapped his arms around her, hauling her against his chest. By some miracle, Artemis let him. "Gods, Percy, he could've hurt you."

"But he didn't." Percy pointed out, stroking her hair. "I'm fine."

"Percy, I don't want you to do any more training. You've saved Olympus once; maybe you should sit this one out." Artemis muffled into his chest, resting her hands on his shoulder blades.

"Artemis."

"What?" She asked softly, raising her chin.

"I froze it."

"Huh?"

"I froze the knife." Percy disentangled his arms from the goddess' waist. "I didn't just stop it, but I froze it. It was just hovering in the air."

Artemis nodded. "That's…that's a big deal."

Excitement hummed through him. "We can't stop training."

"Perc—"

"We can't! I'll admit; I wasn't stoked at having a knife thrown at me. But it worked-we're getting somewhere."

"What part of 'He could've killed you' don't you understand?" Artemis snapped, backing off. "I don't want you training with him. Not when he's putting your life in danger."

"We can't stop," Percy reasoned. "When these three months are over, I'll be able to control these powers. I can help fight in the war."

"Percy, I know you want to help but you just got back from being captured for weeks and you're being rushed to train for the war. You know what happened to Piper. You're not invincible."

The boy flinched at the sound of his deceased friend's name. "That's exactly why I need to fight. Gaea knows about my powers-she'll try to take me out first. I'll fight her and if I can't then at least I've bought you guys more time."

"Stop being the hero for one second, Percy! I don't care if you can stop the world from spinning—you're not going to fight Gaea on your own."

Percy tried to push down the onset of anger. "I'm not of your hunters, Artemis. You can't tell me what to do."

"If I must, I'll train you myself. I don't want you training with Adonis or any of those heroes anymore."

"Why do you care so much, Artemis?" Percy asked, eyes sharp. "Why are you so hell bent on protecting me? I'm constantly in danger-it's just the way life is."

"Because I don't want you in danger—how about that? Is that damn good enough for you?" She shouted and Percy jumped. She looked away, drawing in deep breaths. Percy softened, his anger melting away.

"I'm not stopping." Percy said softly.

Artemis' stared at him, her eyes threatening to water. "Does it even matter to you that I don't want you in that kind of danger?"

"This is the way my life is, Artemis." Percy stated. "It matters-you matter. I want you in my life but not if you going discourage me from doing the things I want to do. Even if my life is at risk."

Artemis looked away, not answering.

Percy felt like he needed to take the weight of the world off her shoulders again. "What will it be, Artemis?"

"Okay." She muttered quietly then she looked him steely in the eye. "I'm only supporting you because I don't want to lose you. You mean a lot to me too, Percy."

Percy shot her a lopsided smile and Artemis grinned.

"Bring it here, Jackson. I should get going."

Percy pulled the goddess into him, breathing in her scent.

"Hey Artemis," He murmured quietly into her ear.

"Yeah?" She responded, burying her face into his shoulder. He smelled nice, like spice and man.

"I'm glad you haven't turned me into a jackalope."

Artemis' laughter was muffled by his chest. "Close your eyes."

When the demigod did so, the goddess separated herself from him; stepping back. She studied his face intently, tracing his jaw with a delicate finger. She tilted his chin towards her; staring at his lips.

Artemis leaned in, their noses touching. Percy's breath hitched and he awaited her to make the first move. Artemis stood on the balls of her feet; his scent on her tongue. The lips barely brushed and Percy's eyes fluttered open at the slight contact only to be met with an astoundingly bright light. He flinched, closing his eyes and when he opened them, Artemis was gone.

Month Two

3rd Person-

The son of Poseidon sat on his bed, dialing a number into the hotel phone. The other line rang a few times before it picked up.

"Hello?" The woman's voice echoed into Percy's mind causing him to smile.

"Hey mom," Percy said softly. His palms were sweaty; he hadn't seen her in a month. And the last he saw her, well, he wasn't quite himself.

"Percy Jackson," Sally sighed in relief. "You know very well you're not supposed call me—the next thing you know monsters will be at your doorstep!"

Percy chuckled; that was his mom—always worried. "It's okay, mom—Zeus made the phone untraceable. I'm okay now; not crazy."

"That's good, Percy. I wanted to come see you but I know how important it is that you stay focused on training. I was really worried when you were, uh…when you were out of it."

Percy laughed at her phrasing. "Just regular old me again."

"Thank the gods," Percy heard her sigh in the background. "How's training going?"

"It's…hard, but I can handle it. I got a knife thrown at my face last week, that was fun."

Percy imagined his mom's jaw dropping. "You're joking, right?"

"Actually, no I'm not." He then explained the events in exact order and detail; leaving out the almost-kiss with Artemis. His mother did not need to know that information.

At first, Sally was speechless which caused Percy to frown.

"Mom? You still there?"

"Huh? Yeah, I'm here. I just can't believe he threw a knife at your face-he could've literally made you a half blood."

Percy snorted at her joke but listened as his mother continued. "I-I mean, at first I was a little mad but I think Artemis dealt with him accordingly. I was silently praying for Adonis when you told me she had him pinned against the wall, poor guy. What did she say to you afterwards?"

"She said and I quote, 'I'm going to give him back alley plastic surgery'"

"Wow," Sally breathed into the phone. "I've never heard of a god acting that way. It's just so human, you know?"

The son of Poseidon found himself nodding. "She's unlike any god—dare I say person—I've ever met before. Years ago, when Zoe died, she showed so much grief; it was unbelievable. Remember the time Apollo interviewed you? That same day, the gods were deciding whether to kill me but she stood up and defended me. She even brought me dinner once. She's really kind, Mom."

"Anyone who brings you food is nice, Percy." Sally laughed before pausing, her tone somber. "Do you…do you like her?"

Percy's face felt like it was on fire. "Like that?"

"Like that."

He rubbed the back of his neck nervously. "I-I mean, I guess you could say that. I'm not completely sure but s-she's nice and pretty and all but…" Percy trailed off, taking a breath. "I've no chance in hell. She's a maiden goddess and immortal. Besides, you know how I feel about Annabeth—we've been through a lot together."

"Sweetheart, I know you two are canon. I get it. Totally. But I think it's time you let Annabeth go. It's true, you've gone through a lot together but Percy, sweetie, you keep disappearing on her and you're in constant danger. There's only so much she can take."

"I've been off the radar a few times but you're still here." Percy pointed out.

"I'm your mother. I've got no choice." Sally chuckled. "Advice from a woman, we don't like waiting."

"She's my best friend. I can't hurt her like that—I'm not entirely sure about what I feel for Artemis but it doesn't matter, she's a maiden and immortal. Two things I am not and one I'll never be. I feel something for Annabeth, maybe it's not love but I'll be there for her. I want to be there for her."

"I used think that about your father. That he was my only true love; that I couldn't ever love someone else. Then I met Paul and Percy, love isn't a grandiose event. It's subtle. I started falling for him over the smallest things-his passion when he spoke about teaching, his smile, his eyes, his laugh. Percy, it's seems to me that you've found all those things in Artemis."

"Sweetheart, take a chance and if you regret it, I'll have all the blue cookies and waffles waiting for you at home."

"Apollo once told me that Artemis loved me-it was from a curse though. And those can be just as ambiguous as prophecies." Percy's throat burned, his heart heavy.

"Oh now you've got to take a chance!" Sally exclaimed.

"I don't know, Mom. I'll think about it."

"I wish I could meet her, Percy." Sally said wistfully. "I've never met a goddess before."

"Me too, Mom."

After a slight pause, Sally sniffed as if she could smell her son. "Percy Jackson, you have showered today, correct?"

"Yeah….."

"Get in the shower, son."

Percy grinned. "I'll talk you to later, Mom. Love you."

"Goodbye, Percy. I love you too." And with that, the mortal hung up the phone.

The demigod stepped out shower, put on a fresh change of clothes before opening the bathroom door. As he did so, several different scents surrounded his nose-cinnamon, blueberry, bacon were the most dominant.

The moon goddess was in the kitchen, making breakfast. Her hair was pulled back into a pony tail with a few wispy edges falling into her face delicately. A bead or two of sweat clung to her forehead and occasionally, she fanned her hand across her face to disperse the heat.

"Hey," Percy grinned; chuckling to himself. Artemis gave a him small smile and beckoned him over.

"Good morning-how would you like your eggs?"

Percy walked over to the small kitchen, leaning over the goddess' shoulder. "Umm in a cake."

"I'm afraid my culinary skills aren't that gifted. You have a choice of scrambled or..." Artemis glanced at the egg then back at the pan. "scrambled."

"What a hard decision-I'll have to go with scrambled then."

Artemis cracked the egg against the side of the pan before releasing its liquid contents onto the sizzling pan. While she prepared the eggs, Percy set the food out and was soon joined by the silver eyed woman.

Percy decided to go counterclockwise on his plate-first he'd have a go at the bacon, before moving onto the pancakes, then he would tackle the hash browns before concluding with the eggs.

Artemis laughed as she watched the demigod execute his carefully planned attack. "Men." She muttered quietly.

"So," Percy started, reaching for second slice of bacon. "Do you, um-would you like to meet my mom?" He winced, awaiting her answer. He wasn't sure what prompted him to ask-he enjoyed spending time with Artemis and he thought his mother would appreciate a third companion.

Artemis sucked in a sharp breath, trying to decipher what he meant. "Sure, I'd love to meet her."

The demigod didn't hear her and laughed nervously. "I-I mean she was coming anyway, I just figured you two should meet. I told her a bit about you and she said she wished she could meet you. But if you don't, it's cool-in fact, forget I aske-"

Artemis interrupted by planting a kiss on his cheek. "Percy, I'd love to meet your mother."

The back of Percy's neck felt warm and he had a feeling that warmth was visible on his face. "I'd like that."

The goddess pulled away, picking at her food. "Soo...you told your mom about me." Her voice rose at the end, almost as if the statement was a question.

The demigod blushed, looking down. "Uh, yeah. Nothing bad, of course...n-not that there's anything bad about you."

"Oh, I wish." Artemis said sadly. "Anyway, how's the training going?"

"Oh it's going alright. Had my last practice with Adonis yesterday-no knives thrown at my face, thank the gods."

"I should hope not. I'm kind of impartial to your face."

Percy laughed and her comment reminded him of the close contact they had shared last week. "Look Artemis, if you want to talk about last week-we can."

The goddess stiffened, shaking her head. She wasn't ready to talk about and Percy nodded, understanding.

After a pause, Artemis waved her fork in the air. "I'm afraid that it's only going to get worse from here on out. We started off with Adonis because we thought it'd be easier."

"It's fine; he's prepared me for the war. There's little time but so much to do, you know?"

Artemis nodded, sharing his sentiment. "The camps are getting ready. You won't have to face Gaea and the Giants alone-we're here to help."

"I don't doubt you guys will." Percy smiled. "How's the hunt under Thalia?"

"Great, actually." Artemis' face soured. "It's like they don't even need me."

"Hey," Percy reached for her hand, running his thumb across her slender fingers. "They need you. Without you, none of them would be there. This is just temporary."

"I know." Artemis said quietly, lacing her fingers throw his.

"Besides," Percy smiled, a smile reaching his emerald eyes. "If she hadn't taken over, you wouldn't be here with me."

"Good point, Jackson." The goddess smirked then looked down at their intertwined hands. "There's something I need to tell you."

Percy breathed heavily, voice low. "Same here. You go first."

Artemis' heart pounded violently inside her chest. Her fear wanted to consume her but she pushed it aside. She had to tell him. "I'm Persia's mother. Two centuries ago, I fell in love with Adonis and unknowingly had a child. He told me and we got into an argument, that's what you heard the other day on the balcony."

Artemis looked at his expressionless face. "That's not all; I told the other gods that I had broken my vow. As a result, I am no longer a ma—"

The door swung open, revealing a tall man dressed completely in armor. "My namesake—it's about time we meet."

The former hero flipped his helmet up and raised his eyebrows. "Well? Let's get to it then."

"Perseus." Artemis sighed.

Percy stood up, letting go of her hand. "I really should've taken a shower later. I get the feeling that I'm about to get really sweaty."

The demigod muttered a farewell to the goddess then followed Perseus out, toward Olympus.

"So am I getting suited up or…." Percy drifted off, pointing to Perseus' armor.

"I'm afraid not." His voice was slightly echo-y due to the armor.

"Dude, from what I've heard, you're going to pulverize me. I should at least get armor to prevent some harm."

"Armor makes one inflexible. It's too stiff; ideal for one on one combat but unrealistic for battle. You need to be able to extend your arms and weave through the field easily."

"Okay, I get it. That doesn't explain why you're dressed up in armor though."

"Everyone else will be so consequently, I am." Perseus unsheathed a sword about three and a half feet long with a glistening, silver hilt. "Come at me, Percy."

Percy pulled out Riptide, charging the man. He sidestepped effortlessly, knocking Percy to the ground with the hilt of his sword.

Percy jumped back to his feet, wiping blood from the corner of his mouth. The former hero looked at him expectantly and Percy tried a different tactic but yet again, his face collided with the cold floor. This cycle repeated twice more until the demigod decided he didn't want to be best friends with the floor anymore.

"Problem, Percy?"

"Yeah, dude. Problem-I can't feel my jaw anymore." Percy growled, charging once more. He swung his sword in a high arc and it collided with Perseus' sword.

Perseus smiled as his sword clattered to floor, rendering him defenseless. Riptide was pointed his chest, its owner breathing heavily.

"You're ready."

Percy frowned. "We just got started."

"Well, we've got a ways to go but Percy; you abandoned all technique and charged. You must do the same with my instruction. It's vicious and spontaneous but I have a feeling it's up your alley."

Percy lowered his sword. "Oh."

"Alright, give me fifty push-ups."

Percy groaned but dropped to the floor, beginning the first set of push-ups.

Throughout the day, Perseus subjected his namesake to grueling exercise and sword duels. Percy was pushed to his limit and then some over but at the end of the day, Percy felt grateful for the training.

Throughout the month, Percy's routine had become like clockwork. Perseus met him on Olympus at 12 am and they trained till 12 pm. Percy came back to the hotel room, sore but sometimes Artemis was waiting for him, usually with food. They never spoke about their near kiss nor of the morning of the first day he had trained with Perseus. It was if the world were suspended, staying still.

The last day of training with Perseus would change all of that. Percy woke up that morning, anxious. Today was the day he'd combat Perseus, one on one. Not for training but it would be uninterrupted, intense one-on-one.

Percy got ready then made his way across the street, over to Olympus. When he stepped out of the elevator, the bright face of the sun god greeted him.

"You ready for this Perce?" Apollo asked.

"As ready as I'll ever be." Percy looked around the throne room, nodding to the new comer.

"Uncle Hades," He greeted. "You made the trip over here to see lil ol me?"

"Oh Jackson, this fight should go down in history. It's a Perseus off." The god said excitedly.

"Pay no mind to him, Percy." Zeus said. "Good luck against my son today. May the gods be with you both."

Zeus snapped his fingers and the throne room disappeared, replaced with a coliseum.

"I thought it was fitting for the occasion." Zeus explained.

Percy gave a small smile and walked over to the other side of the arena. The moon goddess sat in the stands, nervously biting her fingernails.

"Slow down there, Artemis. You might chop off your hand."

"Haha." Artemis smiled, peering up at the demigod. "It's a nervous habit."

"Didn't think a god could get nervous."

"It's possible alright," Artemis sighed. "I can't believe you're going through with this, Percy. Honestly, this is insane."

"I know right. I can't believe you're letting me do this."

"Support." She reminded him.

"Thanks for coming today, Artemis. I could use all the support I can get."

"It's not a problem, Percy." From the corner of her eye, she saw Perseus emerge into the arena. "I think that's your guy."

"And so it is." Percy gazed at the former hero. He wasn't wearing armor, only wielding an imperial gold shield and sword.

Percy jumped over the railing and into the arena. "Let's hope I can make it out of this in one piece."

"You can." Artemis encouraged. "Go get him, Jackson."

The demigod grinned at her before strolling over to the center of the arena. He placed himself opposite of Perseus, their eyes—electric blue against sea green—clashed with each other.

Zeus, Hades, and Apollo made their way over to the goddess where the view was better.

"You two know the rules: neither maiming nor killing. Powers are allowed. Good luck to you both." After his announcement, Zeus sat down, staring intently at the demigods.

At an unseen signal, they charged.

Not at each other but instead, they ran sideways to their right, trying to interpret each other's technique. Percy noticed Perseus' zigzag running pattern. Every few yards, he moved a little to his left. It was like the rhythmic beating of the heart. It was flawless; leaving no room for Percy to use a sideways slash so he used an alternative technique.

Running at full speed, Percy was able to gain a little on Perseus before moving to the right and turning around, holding Riptide in front of him. Perseus simply smirked as he jumped up and landed on the flat of Percy's blade, using it as a leverage point. The former hero jumped several meters into the air before summoning the wind to bring him down.

Percy ran at the nearest wall, pushing off it to gain height. As he approached the ground, he used gravity to gain momentum then came down with a heavy stomp. Faster than the eye could follow, Percy came down and delivered a powerful kick that it sent shockwaves throughout the arena, causing a cloud of dust that went up several feet in the air.

There was no sign of Perseus when the dust cleared. Percy frowned as he looked down at the dented shield.

The arena was silent, the audience holding their breath.

Suddenly, Percy's ear twitched and he quickly turned around, just in time to block an abdominal stab with the shield. Perseus stepped back as Percy slashed where his head previously been. The former hero delivered a strong kick which made Percy step back then he plunged his sword into the dented shield. The shield's shape turned into that of an inside out umbrella, leaving Percy's wrist exposed as Perseus slashed at it.

Percy countered by pulling the shield back just as the sword came down. Percy twisted the shield hard enough to make Perseus lose his grip on his sword, rendering him weaponless. Perseus used the momentum provided by the twist to launch himself into the air and delivered a brutal roundhouse kick to Percy's head.

Percy wheeled around slightly, trying to gain some balance.

Apollo whistled. "He's definitely going to feel that in the morning."

Percy threw his sword down and delivered a dropkick to the descending Perseus that sent him flying. Perseus recognized the trick and he plunged a dagger deep into the soil, slowing his flight. Perseus wrenched his dagger out of the soil, stalking towards the demigod. He hacked away at Percy who wasn't expecting it and as such was unable to properly parry the blow. Perseus found an opening and with that he disarmed his namesake by hooking the hilt of his dagger into Riptide's hilt and jerked it out of Percy's grip.

Percy retreated slightly, waiting for his sword to return to him. He kicked sand into Perseus eyes, leaving the former hero unable to see. When his pocket felt heavy again, Percy uncapped the pen and slammed the sword against Perseus' dagger, disarming him. He then sent a small blow to Perseus' abdomen and placed Riptide against his neck.

"Do you yield?"

The small audience leaned in, awaiting the former hero's answer.

"I yield."

Percy took a step back, lowering his weapon. Perseus smiled at the demigod, a proud look in his eyes.

The gods clapped and the coliseum reverted back into the throne room.

"Remarkable performance, Percy." Zeus noted. "Perseus taught you well."

"A little too well." Perseus smirked then joined his father and uncle on the other side of the throne room.

"Are you okay?" Artemis rushed over to the demigod, her brother by her side. "Percy, you did amazing out there."

The son of Poseidon smiled, panting hard. With the assistance of Apollo, he managed to sit down. "I'm starting to think this was a bad idea."

"You think?" The sun god muttered, handing him some ambrosia and nectar.

Percy nibbled at the ambrosia; gaining some strength back.

"You should get some rest." The goddess said, concerned.

"You're right, Artemis." Percy got up, a bit shaky but still up. "I'll see you guys later." The demigod said a hasty goodbye to his uncles and Perseus before returning to his hotel.

The son of Poseidon crashed onto his bed, exhaustion sweeping him away. He sighed, soon he would start his last month of training and he had no idea what he was in for.

Month Three

3rd Person/Artemis-

"Oooh, who you getting all dressed up for?"

The goddess blushed, straightening out her silver A-line dress. "If you must know, I'm meeting Percy's mother today."

"Meeting the parents-that's serious." Apollo grinned mischievously. "So you two are together together?"

"No, he just suggested that I meet her and I accepted. It's simply just a meeting." Artemis' frown was visible in the hotel lobby's mirror. "Hair up or down?"

"Down." Her twin answered. "You sure are trying hard for a 'simple meeting.'"

Artemis didn't answer but instead fidgeted with pleats in her dress. "You think she'll like me?"

"She'll love you, baby sis." Apollo's eyes were bright; encouraging.

"I hope so." The goddess walked over to the elevator, pressing the 'up' button. "How's Persia?"

"She sure could use a cabin..."

"I know. I know." Artemis shook her head. "I haven't even told the huntresses yet. It's so hard, you know?"

"I know." Her brother prodded her into the elevator. "Good luck, Artemis."

The goddess smiled nervously, letting the elevator doors separate the two siblings. When it opened to Percy's floor, Artemis briskly walked over to his door, pausing.

"She'll love you. She'll love you." Artemis repeated before raising a trembling fist to the door. Artemis' heart caught up in her chest and she knocked.

After a few seconds, the door swung open, revealing the son of Poseidon.

"Hi."

"H-Hi." Percy stuttered. "You, um, you look-"

"You look really nice, Lady Artemis." Sally finished. The goddess was fascinated by her eyes-they changed colors but always reverted back to blue. She had brown hair and a kind face, no doubt something she passed onto her son.

"Just Artemis, please. Thanks, Ms. Jackson." (A/N-I know she's married to Paul but I thought it'd be easier to address Percy and Sally as 'the Jacksons' when I needed to.)

"Just Sally, please." Sally smacked her son's shoulder. "Stop staring at her, Percy. It's rude."

Percy blushed and grinned lopsidedly, making Artemis' breath hitch. "Sorry. Come on in, Artemis."

Sally motioned to a small table in the center of the room. "I made cookies."

"Are they the famous blue cookies I keep hearing about?" Artemis stepped inside and Percy closed the door behind her.

"I don't talk about them that much."

"Yes, you do." Both women said simultaneously.

Sally chuckled, "Oh yes, I think we'll get along just fine."

The goddess shot a smile at the demigod, beaming. Somewhere between cookies and small talk, Sally brought out a photo album.

"Mom, what's that?" Percy pointed to the album, his eyes widening as if it were the depths of Tartarus.

"Is that a baby album?" Artemis asked, gasping. Sally nodded and smiled, opening to the first page.

"Nope, nope, nope." Percy attempted to shut the book from across the table but his mother was quicker, shoving Percy's hands away.

"Look at baby Percy," Sally cooed. It was a picture of him, in nothing but his diaper, a pacifier in his mouth.

"Awww, Percy. You were so cute." Artemis smiled. "What happened?"

The Jacksons snickered and Sally flipped to the next page. "Oh! This one-this one was taken the day I got a call from Percy's nursery, he had strangled a snake with his bare hands. Gods, that was scary."

"No way." Artemis' eyes were wide.

"What can I say? My meaty toddler hands were a force to be reckoned with."

"Wow, you're so humble, Percy."

The group laughed at Artemis' joke and Sally sighed, content. Artemis was more than just impressive, she was stellar. The mortal could tell she truly cared for her son but still managed to not put up with his humorous antics.

Halfway through the photo album, Sally's phone buzzed. She excused herself and went to the back of the room. Meanwhile, Artemis subjugated her son to more baby pictures.

When Sally finished the phone call, she returned to the group, a look of dismay upon her face.

"That was my editor-I have to run." Sally looked at the goddess apologetically. "It's been nice meeting you, Artemis. I see why Percy is so fond of you-you're a great person."

Artemis' face flushed. "Thank you, Sally. I enjoyed meeting you too."

"Oh darn, no more baby pictures." Percy got up, walking his mother to the door. "Whatever shall I do?"

Sally smirked, leaning into her son's ear. "Keep her close, Percy Jackson. She's a keeper."

His mother closed the door on Percy's blushing face, leaving the goddess and the demigod alone.

"I have a surprise for you." The demigod stated, his eyes shining.

Artemis raised an eyebrow as the demigod walked over to the closet, grabbed something on the top shelf, and then returned, hiding the object behind his back.

"It's not a knife, I swear." Percy grinned, moving towards the television.

"Good. What is it then?"

"Why, it's your favorite Disney movie." Percy smirked as 'A Goofy Movie' began playing on the screen. The goddess' eyes shone and she smiled at the demigod.

"I can't believe you remember something I told you months ago."

"I try." Percy grinned and offered a hand. The goddess took his hand and he led them to the bed. Artemis rested her head on Percy's shoulder and they sat in this perfect picture, watching the movie.

Seventy-eight minutes and an embarrassing sing off between the two later, Artemis frowned.

"Percy?" She asked, pulling away from the boy. "Did you leave the hotel to get this DVD?"

"Shhh...don't tell Zeus."

3rd Person-

"He drools." The son of Zeus cocked his head. "Huh."

"Oh look," The other hero pointed to the demigod. "He's waking up."

Sure enough, Percy's eyes fluttered open and when he saw the two men leaning over him, he shot up, also hitting his head against the headboard. "Ow."

Percy looked to his right, trying to focus on the onyx-haired man with blue eyes.

"About time you woke up." The man said.

"Hello to you too, Hercules." Percy nodded to his left. "Hey, Theseus."

"Hey baby bro." Theseus grinned, helping Percy up. "Alright, get dressed. We've got alot to do today."

Percy yawned, stretched and went to the bathroom to change. A few moments later, he was out and felt slightly more refreshed. The two men led the boy down to the main lobby and through a few halls before finally reaching their destination.

"The gym?" Percy asked, puzzled.

"Yep." Hercules popped the 'p' before picking up a few weights.

"Hey Hercules, do you even lift?"

The former hero looked at the boy with complete seriousness. "Yes. Yes, I do."

"Okay..." Percy looked around, there were no mortals. "So, what are we doing?"

"Shoulders and arms." Theseus answered. "Next week, chest and back. Then the third week, strength and endurance."

"What about the fourth week?"

"Oh you'll see." Theseus had a mysterious glint in his eyes.

Before Percy could ask what he meant, the son of Zeus motioned to a barbell with no weights. "Pick that up-begin three sets military presses. Exhale as you lift the barbell. Then lock your shoulders briefly before inhaling and returning the bar to starting positions. Four sets of twenty reps."

Percy picked up the equipment and began the exercise. Somewhere between the third sets and last few reps, his muscles began to ache.

"You got this, baby bro!" Theseus encouraged. "One more set."

"I...feel...like...dying."

"Good!" Hercules crowed. "That means its working."

When Percy finished, the son of Zeus patted his back. "Good job-alright, next-lateral pulldowns. Grab that cable, pull it to your upper chest before releasing it."

As the demigod got into position, Theseus called out, "How much resistance?"

"The highest amount." Hercules replied.

"You're kidding right?" Percy's eyes widened. "I won't be able to pull it down."

"You've got my strength, kid. You'll be fine."

Theseus set it to high resistance and Percy pulled the cable down with minimal effort. "It's not bad."

"Good because you need to do four sets of twelve reps." Hercules smiled.

"Great." A few minutes later, Percy had finished the exercise and moved onto the next. Throughout the day, mortals came in and out but Percy and the former heroes remained, working on different machines.

For the rest of the month, Percy worked on every body part. His agility, strength, and endurance increased greatly-Percy was more than ready for the upcoming battle.

Now there was only one more test he needed to pass.

Late in the evening, there was a knock at Percy's door.

The boy frowned; he wasn't expecting anyone. "It's open!"

The sun god let himself; flashing a beaming smile. "It's time, Percy."

Percy inhaled deeply before following the cheery god out of the room and across the street to Olympus.

The son of Poseidon paled as he saw the former heroes of Olympus in full armor. He wasn't aware this would be a cumulative test.

"Percy," The goddess of the moon laid a hand on his shoulder.

"Hey," The demigod smiled then frowned. "Here to watch?"

"Nope." Artemis pointed to the armor she wore. "I'm going to fight you."

"Artemis, I-I can't fight you." Percy didn't want to hurt her. She was goddess and a great fighter but he also used to hate her. He didn't want to lose control of himself.

"Afraid you'll get beat?" The goddess retorted.

Before Percy could respond, Zeus strolled over to the trio. "Artemis, you should be in your position."

"See you on the field, Jackson." Artemis left, dragging her twin along with her.

"What field?" The son of Poseidon frowned.

"Why, this one." The King of the Gods snapped his fingers and the throne room disappeared, transforming into an autumn colored forest.

Suddenly, the god vanished; leaving Percy alone. The boy doubled over; feeling some sort of pull. An image flashed before his eyes-it was a deer.

They wanted him to find a deer.

Percy frowned but followed the tug; using it as a compass. He wandered for a while before bark flew into the air. An arrow had struck the tree next to him. Percy knew this was his test of speed and dexterity-Theseus and Hercules would often send arrows flying after him and Percy would have to run and dodge them before they pinned him down.

Percy wasted no time. He bolted further into the forest, his feet slapping against the forest floor roughly. He ducked under a branch, hopped over a small creek, sidestepped a boulder, and exited the dense trees. He was now in a clearing and no arrows followed him. Percy glanced behind him and he saw a tall figure with a bow in hand; standing at the edge of the forest.

Theseus nodded at the boy approvingly. He had passed the first labor.

Once in the clear, Percy continued to follow the tug simultaneously looking for the deer.

Suddenly, all sounds from the forest ceased. Perseus stood in front of his namesake, sword drawn. Percy recalled all of his training, shifting his feet into a proper athletic stance and positioning his upper body in a defensive stance, ready to parry an attack. Percy drew Riptide and waited for Perseus to attack; opting for the defense.

After a moment, Perseus lunged.

Percy swung instinctively, their blades colliding. Perseus quickly withdrew his blade and knocked Percy upside the head. Percy groaned as he got back up, almost smashing into a boulder. Perseus took that as an opportunity to charge his hand full of electricity, and fling a destructive lightning bolt. The son of Poseidon rolled over; barely missing the bolt. In one swift move, the demigod got up, kicking Perseus feet from underneath him.

Percy picked up Riptide and pointed it at the former heroes' chest. "Do you yield?"

"I yield."

The son of Poseidon retracted his sword, helping his cousin up. Perseus nodded and turned around, heading back into the forest.

Percy smiled and recapped riptide, sighing. He had passed the second labor.

Once again, Percy followed the pull that would lead him to the deer. He sniffed-there was a roasting smell, like the aroma of a grilled hamburger. Percy frowned. First of all, where was the smoke coming from? Second of all, why would someone be grilling food in the middle of nowhere? Unless . . . Percy's heart leapt up into his throat, causing his ears to pound along with the sped-up beat of his heart. Was someone being cooked? Or maybe the deer?

Percy's blood seemed to freeze and a horrible feeling arose in his stomach. He continued walking quickly, hoping to get closer to the source. Percy moved closer to the location from which the smell had originated, and came to a small glade. The clearing was infested with waist-high grasses, making Percy feel like he was looking at a petite wheat field. Towards the middle of the overgrown dell, an enormous man was throwing logs and sticks of all sizes into a roaring inferno, each one making the flames rise a bit higher.

The man, if one could even call him that, was rotten and decaying, flies swarming around him like moths would swarm a beacon of light during a murky night. The skin was a pale buttery hue, and the veins a deathly onyx shade. The dirty and dead-looking man was a stark contrast to the ethereal forest that Percy was in: black and white, dead and alive.

Upon closer inspection, Percy noticed the man only had one eye. It was a cyclops.

Percy gritted his teeth-of course the former heroes would put him in danger. It was probably Adonis' idea.

Next to the fire, an unconscious person was tied to a stake. Percy's eyes widened when he realized who it was.

It was...it was Annabeth.

Before Percy could comprehend his own actions, he charged from the brush in which he hid, mindlessly advancing through the glade and toward the hideous beast that dared touch the daughter of Athena. Percy felt the earth rumble and he plunged his sword into the ground, sending thousands of shock waves through the cyclops.

"WHO DARE INTERRUPT MY DINNER? I WILL EAT YOU TOO, INTRUDER!" The beast bellowed, trying to regain his balance.

Percy stood and charged, catching the unbalanced Cyclops off guard. He thrust Riptide into the monster's thigh, eliciting a scream of pain. The Cyclops grabbed a club from his belt and swung sluggishly—but powerfully. Percy ducked just in time, feeling his hair shift from the powerful gust of wind in the wake of the Cyclops's attempted attack.

Percy stepped back agilely as the Cyclops tried to kick him, and swung the blunt part of the sword towards the Cyclops's exposed stomach. The Cyclops lashed out with his free hand, striking Percy's right eye at the same time the butt of Riptide connected with Cyclops's side.

The fingernails on the Cyclops's hands were so sharp that the attack left behind a bloody wound that stretched from his eyebrow down to his cheek, thankfully missing his eyeball. Percy cried out in pain and wiped the blood from his cheek as he turned, surprised that the Cyclops hadn't finished him in his moment of feebleness. Percy's breath hitched in his throat as he saw that the Cyclops had gotten Annabeth in a headlock, a rusty dagger pressed up against her vulnerable neck.

The Cyclops grinned cruelly, showing Percy his dilapidated and yellowed teeth.

"Not her. Anyone but her." The son of Poseidon began trembling with anger. He was livid. The former heroes could put his through all the labors they wished. They could throw him back in Tartarus for all he cared. But they made a colossal mistake when they used Annabeth and for that, they were going to pay.

The Cyclops opened his mouth to reply, but Percy didn't give him a chance to. Percy reared back and hurled the sword through the air, desperately willing it towards the Cyclops. Time seemed to slow and all the noise of the ethereal forest ceased to be, as it all the animals, insects, and plants were spectating the entire event with an uncharacteristic interest. Percy could hear his heart thump in his ears, and felt all his senses sharpen drastically, as if Zeus himself had charged him with lightning. Percy could see the tensing muscles of the Cyclops as his eye widened towards the incoming projectile, and could see every slight direction change of the sword.

Then in one climatic moment, the sword pierced Cyclops's head, going all the way through before bursting out the back of his head. Some sort of gold goo splattered on the forest floor, while Annabeth fell to the ground, still unconscious and oblivious to all that was happening.

The gold goo glowed slightly then it separated, taking the shape of two people. Once the figures solidified and the goo became flesh, the former heroes stood in its place.

Percy delivered a jaw breaking punch to both Adonis and Hercules. "You two had NO right to put her in danger. She had nothing to do with this!" Percy snarled, rage holding him hostage.

"Woah, woah!" Hercules reared back, cracking his jaw back into place. "We didn't use her. She's fine and at camp."

"I think you broke my nose." Adonis tried in vain to straighten the crooked organ.

Percy glanced at Annabeth whose body slowly morphed into one of a picturesque lady, with vivid silver eyes and long dark hair. The woman slowly floated down until her feet touched the ground, her silver eyes connecting with his sea green ones.

"Artemis." Percy gasped.

"Surprised?" The goddess smirked then sighed. "I would never let them use Annabeth, Percy. I-I know how much she means to you." Her voice faltered at the end of her sentence and she looked down. For a while, she thought he had begun to see her the same way she saw him but today proved her wrong. He loved Annabeth and no matter how hard Artemis tried, she could never replace her.

The goddess waved her hand and the former heroes disappeared, leaving the two alone. "Congratulations, Percy. You've passed the third labor. Now onto the fourth and final labor."

Before he could respond, a deer shot out into the clearing and ran into the forest.

"I believe that's my deer." Percy started towards it but Artemis laid a hand on his chest.

"I'm afraid not, Jackson. You see, that's my sacred deer." Artemis manifested her silver bow and notched an arrow. "You're going to have fight me for it."

Percy sucked in a sharp breath; she had said that earlier. Now Percy remembered why he dreaded fighting her. "Look Artemis, I don't want to fight you. I might hurt you."

Artemis scoffed and responded by releasing her arrow, pinning him to the nearest tree.

A flash of red crossed before eyes and Percy wrenched the arrow from out the tree. As he looked at the hole in t-shirt, Percy growled.

His eyes widened. Calm down. Don't lose control. He thought to himself but his actions had other plans. In an instant, Percy had his hands at Artemis's throat. She dropped her bow and her eyes grew wide.

"P-Percy?" She stuttered, struggling to get out of his vice grip. "You're...you're hurting me."

Percy grimaced; he was fighting with himself. His body wanted to choke her but his mind was restraining it.

"Fight it. Gaea can't hold you captive any more. You can fight this."

Percy frowned and his grip lessened but his hands were still coiled around Artemis neck. Her breathing was shallow but she looked into his eyes determinedly, she wasn't going to let him go.

The son of Poseidon closed his eyes; thinking of times he and Artemis had shared. He had to settle this once and for all.

Dinner and Pasta jokes.

Percy's grip loosened.

The almost kiss and breakfast.

Percy's eyes met Artemis' and he took another breath.

She met his mom. 'She's a keeper', his mother had said.

"You are." Percy realized and Artemis was able to take an entire breath without wheezing.

The goofy movie. The way her eyes lit up watching the final scene.

Percy gritted his teeth; his hands were still around her throat.

Love. You're in love with her.

Immediately, his hands flew back to his sides.

Artemis doubled over and gasped for air. Percy bent down; his sea green eyes swirling with worry.

"Are you oka-oof!"

Artemis smirked and pinned him against the tree. "I'm fine. Now, where were we?"

Percy smiled and looked into her eyes. He found another way to get the deer. "Artemis," His eyes were smoldering and his voice was seductive. The goddess' smirk faded and she held onto his every word.

"Summon the deer and give it to me."

"W-what are you doing?" Before Artemis could react, her head snapped in the direction of the forest and the animal came running out.

"Give. me. the. deer." Percy purred; intoxicating the goddess.

When the deer came near, Artemis coaxed it toward the demigod; surrendering.

Percy laid a hand on the deer and the forest dissipated; replaced by the throne room.

The deer disappeared and Artemis smiled. "Nice job, Jackson."

"Indeed." Hades grinned at his nephew from his throne. "You've gone beyond our expectations."

"The sexual tension was real." Apollo commented, winking at his twin who blushed.

"Well done, nephew." Zeus nodded approvingly. "You've passed the four labors and proven your loyalty to Olympus."

Percy looked down humbly, shifting his feet. "Thank you, Lord Zeus. Thank you all for giving me a second chance. I didn't deserve it. Not after what I did in the last battle."

"Nonsense." Perseus smiled at his namesake, the other heroes nodding in agreement. "You're a great and powerful hero, Percy. Nothing you did that night can erase the good you've done for Olympus. Nothing."

"You've saved the world once and now you're doing it again." The son of Zeus winked at his cousin.

"Hercules is right, Percy. Your actions are noble." Theseus offered.

"Apollo, could you fix my nose?" Adonis asked and the other heroes glared at him. "Oh and hooray for Percy. You're all that and a bag chips."

The sun god chuckled but strolled over to the former hero.

Artemis threw her arms around the demigod. "What were you thinking? You know, when you were..."

"Trying to choke the daylights out of you?" Percy finished her thought. He wrapped his arms around her; breathing in her scent. "You. I was thinking about you."

Artemis was speechless which caused Percy to chuckle. "Surprised?"

"That's...that's an understatement." Artemis recovered; trying to find the right words. "I just didn't think you cared about me that much. The way you acted when you saw Annabeth-or me, rather-you were so protective. Loving."

Percy's could hear his heart beating rapidly in his chest. It was now or never. "I get...confused when it comes to you and Annabeth. I feel something for you...it's overwhelming. It's doesn't matter though-you're a maiden goddess."

Artemis pulled away, tiling her chin so he could see her genuine expression. "I tried to tell you earlier, but Percy-I'm not a maiden goddess. My vow was revoked as a consequence of siring Persia. I want to be with you but I know Annabeth..."

"Annabeth makes me happy. But so do you. Possibly more." Percy breathed. "I just don't know what to do."

"Figure it out, then." The goddess encouraged. "If it's her you truly want, then be with her. I want you to be happy; no matter who you choose."

"I can't lose you." He said desperately. "If I follow my heart; I'll lose one of you. I can't live with that."

"You won't lose me, Percy. I will always be there for you, no matter what. Remember, I promised to support you."

"I don't deserve either of you. I hate picking between the two of you-you're not objects."

"Follow your heart. If Annabeth loves you; she'll stand by you-no matter who you chose."

"I'd do the same for her, if the situation were reversed." Percy's raven hair fell into his eyes. "I will admit, Pertemis sounds alot better than Percabeth."

"True. Then again, I'm a little biased." Artemis grinned then frowned. "Hold up. Why is your name in front?"

"Blame the fandom."

A/N-I enjoyed writing this fic and I'm really sad it's coming to a close. After this goes up, there will be three chapters left and then we're done! I haven't written the last chapter yet but looking at my outline, it'll end on a good note. I hope to give a well rounded end to the story so fingers crossed. As usual, please leave a favorite, follow, and review if you liked it and I'll see you guys next week!