Chapter 13
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"Ummm…where did they go?!" Annabeth practically shouted, "Percy didn't look he was in any condition to be moved."
"The Pegasus as probably taken him to be healed, most likely back at his home" assumed Zoe
"And Thalia" added Annabeth
"I have no idea" replied Zoe before she was engulfed in another hug from her mistress
"How…how are you still alive…which I'm glad about don't get me wrong it just not even my father has that sort of authority and power?!" asked a puzzled Artemis
"I assume… that Perseus used his powers… over time to…. well go back in time and change the events of my death. That was probably why the Fates were so pissed off at him" Zoe stated
"I…I should have thought of that before jumping to conclusions and attacking him." Said Artemis holding her head and shaking it "what was wrong with Thalia? She seemed awfully defensive about him for some reason?" Artemis inquired
Rolling her eyes, Zoe answered her mistress "it appears that the daughter of Zeus has a crush on the prince. Foolish girl." muttering the last part
At these words, an odd feeling seemed to stir inside of the moon goddess, it almost felt like jealousy. But that was impossible she had nothing to be jealous about…did she?
Ridding her mind of such thoughts, Artemis called for her chariot before turning to the rest of the group and saying "come we must make for Olympus, so I can inform the council of what has transpired here." No sooner had she said that when a magnificent chariot made of the purest silver, being pulled by four golden horned deer appeared.
"Excellent timing" muttered Annabeth and with that the group of females boarded the moon chariot and made their way to Olympus, leaving Atlas yelling in pain and misery from his place under the sky.
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It was upon their arrival to the magnificent city that the gods called home, that they found the gods were already in the midst of the winter solstice meeting. Artemis threw open the beautiful but heavy doors which shattered a bust of Zeus making him grumble before taking notice that his daughter had finally returned.
"Artemis! You are free, are you unharmed?" he inquired. Zeus may be arrogant and power hungry but he loves his daughters like they are the most precious things in the world, even more so than his master bolt, although he would never admit to it.
"I am good father, thank you. I was freed by Per...the demigods and my hunters." Started Artemis before turning to look at Zoe "that reminds me where is Atlanta?"
"Oh….ahhh… Perseus sent her back to camp as they had a… difference of opinion and she would not listen to him" answered Zoe
Tipping her head in acknowledgment, Artemis grew to her godly height and went and sat on her throne whilst Zoe knelt by her side.
Unsure of what to do Annabeth stood there like a lost child in the mall before her mother smiled gently and motioned for her to join her at her side.
Coughing as regally as one can, Zeus opened his mouth ready to restart the meeting before he was interrupted by Hades.
"You were going to start without me...again?! You were, weren't you?!" he exclaimed accusingly as he materialized out of the shadows, quickly taking a seat in a makeshift throne opposite of Zeus
"What no, no, no" Zeus replied laughing nervously "of course not" as he rubbed the back of his head under Hades pointed look. "Let's just get started shall we?" Zeus said much to the relief of everyone else that was present. "As you all know the Titans are rising and war will soon be upon us," Zeus said as he paused dramatically while looking around the throne room at his fellow deities before continuing "and thankfully Lady Chaos as seen fit to lend us aid through the Asgardians. Unknown to all but a few, Perseus took me to Asgard a few days back to meet with his father, Lord Odin the King of Asgard. Perseus's father and I had a discussion about the future of our realm and that of the universe. Lord Odin showed me possible future outcomes of what could happen if… certain actions are not taken in order to stop certain things from happening in the future."
Before Zeus could continue, a familiar crash of thunder and magnificent flash of rainbow colored lights filled the air as the Bifrost opened in the Olympian throne room, before quickly vanishing leaving in its wake Lord Odin the mighty King of Asgard. Odin stood there looking as regal as a king could look as the throne room floor cracked under his power. He was clothed in immaculate clothing and armor similar to that of Perseus and in his right hand, he held Gungnir the spear of the heavens. The spear that has defended Asgard and the universe since the beginning of time.
Now everyone was looking a tad suspicious and apprehensive at the sudden arrival of Lord Odin, afraid of what their king has agreed to, with only Athena summoning the courage to voice her thoughts which happened to mirror those of everyone else.
"And what did you and Lord Odin both agree to father?" Athena asked looking between her father and Lord Odin
"An alliance Athena… a strategic and permanent alliance between Olympus and Asgard. An alliance that will help safeguard this realm, as well as that of the universe" replied Odin his voice although soft carried ancient power in it that seemed to make his statement a command that was to be obeyed
"Just how will this alliance come about?" Inquired a nervous Artemis
"Marriage…through marriage between the royal families" Zeus replied looking directly at Odin with a small smile on his face
At this, a number of reactions took place, Hera was positively delighted at the prospect of a marriage between the two pantheons (she is the goddess of marriage after all) thinking of all the different wedding plans she had to choose from as well as learning the wedding customs of a different pantheon. Aphrodite who herself had been returned to Olympus just hours earlier, had that look on her face,… enough said about that. Demeter just kept griping about cereal and its wonderful properties, Athena had a look of intense concentration on her face as she tried to work out who would be getting married, whereas Hestia just smiled softly, already knowing what was going to happen although no one knew how she knew, not even the writers themselves.
Whereas the men just groaned at the long and tedious process that some poor soul is going to have to endure.
"Quiet!" ordered Zeus flaring his power "the All-father and I have both agreed that a marriage between our two pantheons will not only unify us against the Titans more effectively but usher in a new era of peace as well."
"And have you selected any candidates for the marriage father?" inquired a smirking Athena
"Yes, there are two, and they will both marry the prince" answered Zeus
"So I take it that the prince to be married is Perseus, is he aware of… this alliance?" asked Athena who was jumping for joy on the inside
"Yes Athena, you are indeed correct that it will be Perseus that will be the male suitor, as for whether he knows of the alliance or not, I am sure his father has already… mentioned it to him" Zeus answered looking at Odin who smiled happily as he knew his son was fated to be with these two women.
"Why does Perseus need to marry two women if I may ask?" Athena once again voicing everybody's thoughts
At this a portal suddenly opened in the throne room and out walked a stumbling and tired looking Perseus, quickly followed an irate Thalia.
"You were told to stay in bed and rest Percy!" Thalia yelled
"I am fine. Besides, I cannot rest as long as I have a realm to protect." Perseus replied
"Perseus! What is the meaning of this?!" Odin bellowed
"Father…you have tasked me with keeping the realm of Midgard safe. I cannot do this lying in bed on Asgard." Perseus responded
"You also cannot protect Midgard if you unable to move due to injuries!" Odin retorted.
Again another portal opened in the throne room as another Asgardian stepped forth.
The unknown Asgardian bowed to Odin and said "father, please forgive my intrusion but I come bearing news."
"Rise Thor…my son. What is this news?" Odin inquired
The god now known as Thor stood and turned towards Perseus "he has escaped and he is coming for you, Perseus."
"Fuck!" Perseus exclaimed "I ask you to do one thing brother, one simple little task. See if I help you out with Sif next time."
"Simple task? Brother, surely you are jesting, keeping that…that animal at bay for this long is a success." Thor said smirkingly
"What… is there something wrong Lord Odin?" Zeus asked
"Hmm… oh yes, but it's something that Perseus must deal with." Odin answered
A sudden "EEEEEEE" echoed throughout the throne room as Aphrodite rushed towards Thor jumping into his arms "Thor you came to see me!"
"Aye, I always keep my word, especially to my betrothed," Thor replied with a small bow to the goddess of love.
"WHAT THE FUCK IS THIS!" Yelled an irate god of war as he flashed over to Aphrodite and grabbed her arm. "THE BITCH IS MINE!"
"YOU SHALL REMOVE YOUR HAND FROM OFF HER AND THEN APOLOGIZE TO HER FOR ACTING IN SUCH A BRUTISH WAY!" Thor yelled
"As if you could do anything to me!" Ares said snapped back
"Ares!" Zeus bellowed
"No father! She is mine and I will not give her over to some pathetic god from another pantheon!" Ares hissed at his father
"I DO NOT BELONG TO YOU!" Aphrodite shouted as a bright light shown throughout the throne room. Once the light faded there stood Aphrodite in a beautiful but deadly armor.
The gods sat there in stunned silence as they have never seen this side of Aphrodite before.
"A set of armor doesn't make you a warrior… bitch!" Ares said angrily as he reached back to hit the goddess of love.
Thor only smiled as he knew of Aphrodite's recent training and waited to see the look on the war god's face.
As Ares' fist flew forward he was shocked to find that Aphrodite had caught his fist. What surprised him, even more, was the fact she was glowing a bright pink and crushing his hand.
"For too long… for too long I have been a joke to this council! But no more! Perseus was correct I possess more power than I knew! I am not your Ares, I belong to no one but he who I am fated to be with and that is not you!" Aphrodite exclaimed as she threw Ares into the wall. "Just so you know I faked all my orgasms with you."
At this Aphrodite walked over to Hephaestus's throne curtsied and said "dear Hephaestus, I apologize for all of these long years of hurting you. It was not right to take my anger out on you by sleeping with your brother. I was angry because I did not and do not love you. I am fated to be with someone else. Please let us end this vicious cycle and part as friends so that we both may find the love we are looking for."
A despondent Hephaestus slowly nodded in approval as Aphrodite approached his throne and whispered "fear not dear friend, you will soon find who you have been waiting for. I have seen it." As she kissed his cheek
"Ahem… ahh….yes Apollo revive your brother so that we may continue." Zeus ordered
As Apollo went to heal Ares a loud BOOM! Came from the throne room doors.
"What Now!" Zeus exclaimed as the throne room doors flew open to reveal a pitch black Pegasus. "Fuck not him!"
Blackjack cantered into the throne room looking for one person in particular. He smirked as he heard Zeus exclamations when he entered but became angry when he observed the goddess that caused the injuries to his boss. Blackjack neighed angrily at her as he cantered forward coming face to nose with his boss.
"What did I say, Boss?" Blackjack neighed questioningly in an agitated tone "Did I sound like I was joking when I told you to stay in bed?"
"Blackjack…I…I…I told you that I have a realm to protect. As much as I would have liked to, I cannot remain in bed." Perseus replied in Blackjacks mind.
"You remember last time, boss? You member, don't ya?" Blackjack asked his tone turning evil.
Perseus raised his hands as he said "No…now…now…Blackjack. There is a no…no need for that. We can work something out can we not?" Perseus responded
"Your right boss, we can work something out," Blackjack said as he approached Perseus
Perseus just smiled until he realized what Blackjack was about to do. As with Artemis, Blackjack reared his head back and head-butted Perseus in the nose breaking it and splattering blood throughout the throne room.
"What the Fuck! Blackjack!" Perseus exclaimed holding is nose
"See we worked something out, boss." Blackjack neighed sarcastically "Now the next time I say stay and rest what does that mean boss?"
"Stay and rest," Perseus said meekly
"Good boy, boss," Blackjack replied
With the exception of Odin and Thor the throne room was stunned silent once again. Never had they seen a sacred animal take such liberties with their master.
Finally, a deep booming laughter echoed throughout the throne room. Everyone turned to see that it was coming from Poseidon.
"Lord Poseidon, please do not antagonize Blackjack…it will not end well," Odin instructed
Poseidon just laughed even harder believing that as Lord of the horses, this Pegasus would not harm him.
The throne room watched as Blackjack cantered to the front of Poseidon's throne and gave him a glare that would send Ares running.
"What the fuck are you laughing at… fish-face?!" neighed an irate Blackjack
"Careful horse. I am your creator and you will respect me!" Poseidon ordered
"Yo…you…you did not just…say that!" neighed an angry Blackjack
"Leave before I destroy you!" Poseidon demanded
Blackjack looked back at Perseus who just held his hands up as if to say he's all yours. Blackjack got up in Poseidon's face and neighed "look ass-hat I don't know who you are or who you think you are but you did not create me. I was created for my boss by The Presence and if you think I'm gonna let you laugh at us or put us down you got another thing coming!"
"As if an insignificant animal such as yourself co…" was all Poseidon got out as Blackjack head-butted him in the nose spraying ichor all over his throne.
At this Poseidon went to stand but regretted it as Blackjack had quickly spun around and back-kicked Poseidon as he stood up sending him up and over his throne. Where he landed groaning in pain.
"You want some more?" Blackjack asked Poseidon threateningly
Poseidon just shook his head as he held his bleeding nose.
"Good. Oh, one thing. You see that cute little philly over there?" Blackjack said describing Thalia.
Poseidon nodded and asked, "yes why?"
"My boss likes her, and it would be helpful if she could understand me. So I want you to bless her so she can. Capeesh?"
"I will never bless a child of my…" Poseidon started to say as Blackjack got right in his face and said: "So you do want some more."
"N…no…no. I guess it would be alright just this once." A cowering Poseidon said to the Pegasus
If a Pegasus could smile, then Blackjack would be smiling ear to ear as he cantered over and took the sleeve of Thalia's shirt and motioned her over to Poseidon.
Thalia walked nervously as she was unsure of what was going on. "Uncle what is going on?" Thalia asked as she bowed
Poseidon looked at the Pegasus and back to Thalia and said "um… we believe that it is in our best interest that I bless you so that you can understand and talk to Blackjack here."
Thalia looked on in shock before turning to look at Blackjack who just nodded.
Poseidon placed his hand on her shoulder and she glowed sea green for a brief second.
"Hey, little philly can you hear me?" Blackjack asked
"Yes!" Thalia thought back in surprise. "This is so awesome. Thank you so much."
"No need to thank me little philly, you just keep taking care of and blowing my boss and we're even." Blackjack neighed laughingly
Thalia just stood there as her face turned beet red and said nothing.
At this Blackjack cantered back to the center of the throne room and neighed "anyone else got a smartass comment?"
"He wants to know if anyone else has a smartass comment," Perseus said translating
A round of no's murmured throughout the throne room as Blackjack turned with a final glare at Perseus and left.
"This meeting is in recess for 30 minutes." Zeus bellowed as he flashed away to get a drink.
During the break in an undisclosed room
"Brothers, sister, I am glad that you could join us, we have some important matters to discuss before the meeting resumes," Zeus said to his siblings
"What could be so important brother," Hades responded in a suspicious tone
"Peace Hades" came a voice from the side that belonged to Odin "Zeus is trying to make amends and preserve life as you know it. Please just hear him out."
"Very well Lord Odin. You may proceed brother" said Hades
"I want to say to all of you that I am sorry. I have been a terrible ruler and have been more interested in staying in power than doing what was right for the kingdom and family. My recent trip to Asgard has shown me how a true ruler acts, and what I saw shamed me because I have done the exact opposite and acted like our father." Zeus said with his head bowed.
"Wh…wha…what are…yo…you saying…brother?" asked a stunned Poseidon
"I have been the cause of extremely unnecessary pain towards each of you and your families and I am sorry for this. I know that there is nothing I can do to make this up to each of you but from this day forth I promise to be a better king and treat each god fairly and equally. To begin this period of healing I am ordering a cabin be built at Camp Half-Blood for your children brother." Zeus said looking at Hades
"What!" exclaimed Hades
"Your children have never been given the opportunity that other demigods have had in training and making friends, again that is my fault for being paranoid of how powerful they are. From this day forth they shall be welcome in Camp Half-blood along with all other demigods." Zeus decreed "Please except this brother I know of no other way to try and make amends."
Hades started at his brother for a moment before nodding and saying "very well brother we shall as the mortals say give it a go."
"Thank you, brother. Next, I want to right a wrong that should have never taken place. Sister, brother, if you so want I am offering you positions on the Olympian council." Zeus said to Hades and Hestia
Hestia and Hades stood there with their mouths gaping open and shut like fish when suddenly a loud bellowing laugh rang out. It was Poseidon who then said still laughing "the look on your faces. You look just like a cod."
"Bro…brother…are yo…you sure?" Asked Hestia
"Yes, sister. The things I have seen has shown me that things must change for if they don't the consequences will be devastating." Zeus replied, "I beg you, please help me, help me become a better ruler and help us save the future."
"Why now? After all of these millennia's, why do this now?" Hades questioned
"In the past brother, I may have had an ego problem that contributed to the way I ruled. I was recently shown by Lord Odin how that ego has alienated demigods, gods, and most importantly family. If my ego had not become so large there is a chance, we would not be facing the crisis we are now." Answered a shameful Zeus.
"Olympians, I have indeed shown Zeus how his actions have had repercussions that are currently affecting Midgard. I have also shown him how a kingdom can prosper under a just and fair leadership, please allow him this one chance to make amends and do what is right." Odin said to the assembled Olympians
"I want to believe you brother, I really do but what assurances do we have that after this conflict you will not resort to your tactics of old?" Poseidon questioned
Zeus looked down as his face was heavy with shame and worry and said "I do not blame you, any of you for believing that I would do this. To be truthful I would expect the same thing if I were in your place. However, what you do not yet know is that there will be more than just this war. And each war more difficult than the last, but as I expected this question I have discussed it with Lord Odin and have asked a favor of him; if I return to my old ways of ruling Lord Odin will remove me from my position and help install a ruling body that will lead Olympus to untold heights and glory. I have also asked him to clear this with Lady Chaos and The Presence."
"Su…sure…surely yo…you…jest?' Hestia stuttered out
"No my beloved sister, the situation is dangerous enough that I do this gladly and willingly for our very existence is at stake. Will you please allow me to try to make up for what I have done and to try and be a better ruler?" Replied Zeus
"Lord Odin is what our brother said true?" Hades asked
"Aye, it is. I wish it was not so but the situation is far more dangerous than first thought. If Zeus had of been unwilling to listen during our talk, I would have had to step in and take action. However, he has been open and seems willing to change and he understands what will happen should he return to his former tyrant ways." Odin responded
The three Olympians gathered together and talked quietly for a few moments before saying "thank you, brother, we will gladly accept your offer. Just know that if you become that ass-hat again we will help Lord Odin kick your ass off your throne." Hades said
Zeus started laughing at what his oldest brother just said and replied "fair enough brother, fair enough" and hugged his family for the first time in many millennia's
30 minutes later (after the secret meeting, all the healing, and cleaning up the blood in the throne room)
"This meeting is once again called to order," Zeus stated
"Now, what were we discussing before all of the interruption's?" Zeus asked
"Father before we get to that, what did Aphrodite mean when she said that she is the betrothed of… Thor, is it?" Athena asked
"That is a fine question Athena, one I am eager to find out the answer to as well." Replied Zeus looking at Aphrodite
Aphrodite still standing beside Thor said "Well…I went to visit Perseus during the quest. I…I wanted to thank him for his kind words upon meeting him. Unfortunately, I…I let my lust get the better of me and tried to take him."
"You bitch!" Artemis yelled
"Oh, defensive are we Arty?" Aphrodite asked in a singsong voice
"No…no…I…just do not want to see a decent man such as Perseus tainted like that" Artemis responded
"You should not have worried Arty, he quickly bound and gagged me so nothing happened," Aphrodite said in a positive tone
"Except for placing a curse on me," Perseus muttered out
"Oh… that's right I forgot about the 'curse' I placed upon you. I have heard through the love grapevine that young Thalia has been helping you deal with that." Aphrodite said as she winked at the blushing demigod daughter of Zeus
At this everyone in the throne room turned to look at the demigoddess who tried to hide behind Perseus.
"Where were we, oh yes I was bound and gagged. Well, Perseus explained to me that I was breaking the law by trying to force myself on him and make him violate his domain of loyalty. After he broke the door off the limo, he summoned Sif who took me back to Asgard for training. During our training, Thor stopped by to help and once I saw him I knew immediately that it was he who I have been waiting for." A starry-eyed Aphrodite said
"And I you, sweet one." Replied Thor in romantic type voice
"One day hopefully soon I will become his second wife but first, I must prove myself to Sif, she wants to be sure that I have changed my ways." Said a saddened Aphrodite
"Ha! Like a bitch like you could ever change!" Bellowed Ares
"WHOOM!" was all that was heard as Ares was sent flying out of his throne and a hammer returned to Thor's hand. "I warned you war god the next time you make that mistake it shall be your last!" Thor exclaimed
"Apollo would y…no… you know what, stay where you are. Hestia would you be so kind as to summon some nymphs to remove Ares and attend to this please." Zeus asked
"Certainly brother," Hestia said with a small bow
"We will continue the meeting as if Ares is here and being quiet." Zeus said, "Alright we have our explanation from Aphrodite (good luck by the way) now what?"
"I believe we wanted to know why Perseus needs to marry two women." Athena reminded the assembled gods
Unfortunately, everyone but Perseus failed to notice the look of pure heartbreak on Thalia's face as she began to cry and ran from the throne room.
At this question, Zeus merely looked to Odin, as he has more knowledge on the subject. "Asgardian tradition requires an Asgardian prince marry two women that will help him during his rule" Odin stated while looking at Athena who blushed slightly. Before she asked another question "and must these women possess certain qualities?"
"Yes, my dear they do. However, it is different for each prince or king. The most important part is finding someone who is able to resonate and accept the prince's domains. Then they must strong willed and have no qualms of fighting and defending not only their families and kingdom but should the time come, they must fight alongside their husband in the defense of the innocents throughout the universe. And lastly, due to Perseus's unique domains his intended must be pure virgins, child free so when the time comes for them to consummate their marriage they will bond with each other fully in body and soul." Answered Odin.
"And who has been chosen to wed Perseus?" Athena finally asked although in her smug mind she knew that she would be chosen alongside her sister Artemis as they were the only two goddesses that qualified as Hera is married and no longer a virgin, Demeter is no longer a virgin, and Hestia although a virgin is a peaceful goddess.
Whilst in Artemis's mind she knew what was coming and was dreading it. Although for some reason she didn't fear it as much as she thought she would. She was strangely attracted to Perseus; it was as if it was her destiny?
"And what if these two women do not wish to be married to Perseus? Will he force himself on them?" Artemis asked interrupting Athena's question.
This question Perseus answered himself "then they will not have to marry me, I will not force a person into marriage that does not wish to be married to me"
"Back to the question at hand if we don't mind, who will Perseus be marrying?" asked a smiling Athena
"My son if you would?" asked/commanded Odin turning to look at Perseus
Stepping forward and standing with his back straight Perseus look around the room before declaring his first wife. "For my first wife, that I wish to be married to is…Artemis" although everybody knew it was coming they still turned and looked at Artemis who looked like she would shatter at the slightest touch.
"B…Bu…but father, I should not have been eligible due to my oath" replied Artemis trying for some reason to come up with an excuse
"I will speak with Lady Styx about the situation," said/commanded Odin banging his spear gently into the floor creating a resonating boom throughout the throne room
"Lord Zeus if I may, is there any chance that I can talk with Lady Artemis in private so that I can allay her fears?" asked Perseus
"May I ask why you would want to talk with Artemis in private" replied Zeus
"Certainly Milord, the situation is difficult enough for Lady Artemis and having everything play out here in front of the counsel is most likely embarrassing for her as well. It was not and is not my intention to embarrass her, so I thought she would be more at ease if the two of us discussed this… privately." Replied Perseus
"I see, you make an excellent point young Perseus, however as King of Olympus and Artemis's father I demand to be kept apprised of the situation." Stated Zeus
"Of course Milord" replied Perseus. "Oh and please Milord call me Perseus."
"All council members with the exception of Artemis are dismissed for the time being" Zeus bellowed as he disappeared in a flash of lightening.
Quickly the remaining council members flashed out of the throne room until only Perseus, Artemis, and surprisingly a stern looking Apollo were left in the throne room.
Artemis and Apollo looked at each as if they were having a conversation before Apollo flashed out of the throne room as well.
"Alright boy, what is it you want to say?!" Artemis asked harshly
"I beg your indulgence Milady, but is there anywhere that we may be able to talk in private? This matter is between the two of us and discussing it here in the throne room will be like us talking with all of the council members in the room." Said Perseus
Artemis sat in her throne contemplating the request of the Prince of Asgard when she finally said "fine, but understand this boy, if you try anything I will castrate you before ending your miserable male existence."
"Milady, I can assure you that this is just a talk." Replied Perseus
Artemis moved from her throne to where Perseus was standing and proceed to place her hand on his shoulder as a bright silvery flash erupted in the throne room. A second later the two gods arrived in a room that was built of pure silver. Upon seeing this Perseus immediately assumed that they were in Artemis's palace.
"Thank you, Mila…" Perseus started to say before he was rudely interrupted.
"Know this BOY!" Artemis exclaimed loudly. "You are a male, and as such you are not to be trusted, as men are vile and loathsome creatures who will lie to get their way!"
"I see," responded Perseus. After a minute of silent contemplation, Perseus asked: "Milady, is there anything that I can do which will allow you to believe that I am being truthful to you?"
"Yes, there is one way that I can be assured of your being truthful, but I doubt you have the guts to agree to it." Said Artemis
"And what would this be Milady?" asked Perseus
"As you may or may not know my brother Apollo is the god of truth, which means he knows when someone is lying. Allow him to be here with us and if he says you are speaking the truth then I will believe you." Artemis replied
"Is that all? And here I was thinking it would be something difficult. I agree to your terms Milady, please summon Lord Apollo." Said Perseus
Artemis was shocked. She did not think for one moment that the Prince of Asgard would agree to her demand, however since he did she closed her eyes for a moment and silently summoned her brother.
Soon a golden flash appeared in Artemis's palace as the sun god had arrived.
"Artemis, are you alright? Where is that pathetic god wanna be?" asked Apollo with a scowl on his face.
At that, Artemis's eyes widened as she knew that Perseus had just heard what Apollo said about him. She cleared her throat interrupting the ranting of the sun god and pointed to a place behind him.
Slowly, Apollo turned with the scowl still on his face to see the Prince of Asgard the man who intends to defile his sister standing there with a smirk on his face.
"What are you doing in my sister's palace Asgardian!" exclaimed an increasingly irate Apollo
"Peace, Lord Apollo and I shall explain" replied Perseus. "I asked Artemis if there was some place private we could talk, as I believed that if we were to talk in the throne room others may try and spy on our conversation, and I do not want Artemis to become anymore upset or embarrassed than she already is."
"Alright, I must admit I can understand your reasoning and appreciate your thinking of my sister's feelings." Replied Apollo "However, why am I here if the two of you want to talk in private?"
"Unfortunately, Artemis does not believe that I will speak the truth to her as I am a male. So I asked her under what circumstances would she believe that I am being truthful. It was then she said that you are the god of truth and if I allowed you to be present for our conversation she would believe I am being truthful as long as you confirm it. As I have nothing to hide or be untruthful about I gladly accepted her terms." Perseus said
"I see. So I am to act as a lie detector for Artemis. Know that I will tell her if you lie. I do not like how she was put into this position and will do everything in my power to help her." Stated Apollo
Perseus looked silently at Apollo for a moment before saying "I understand and I want you to know that I have no intention of lying to you or Artemis. However, before we get to Artemis and myself I feel that I must apologize to you Lord Apollo."
At this Apollo was stunned silent before finally saying "wh… wha… what do you…mean you owe me an apology?"
"One of my domains is loyalty. Due to this, I can sense how loyal a person or god is to his or her spouse, king, children and so forth. When the chaos first erupted in the throne room at the announcement of our engagement I believed the reason that you were upset was likened to that of Ares and Hermes. But just now I felt the loyalty that you have for your sister and now realize that you trying to protect her due to that loyalty and love." Explained Perseus
"Dude! You really thought I wanted to put the moves on my own sister? That's just sick. Owww!" Apollo said before Artemis smacked him on the back of his head.
"Again, I apologize Lord Apollo, it is just with the small amount of knowledge I have of the Olympian gods I have discovered that desiring one's brother or sister is almost common place. Look at Lord Zeus and Lady Hera, they are brother and sister so I mistakenly assumed that you and Artem... OOOWWWW!" said Perseus as he received the same slap as Apollo had the moment before.
"AND THEY WONDER WHY I STAY AWAY FROM OLYMPUS!" Yelled Artemis
"My apologies Lady Artemis, I did not mean to demean your honor," said a bowing Prince of Asgard. "Slap! OOWW! What was that for?"
"Do not make that mistake again or I shall show you why I am goddess of the hunt!" exclaimed a still upset Artemis
"Yes Milady" replied Perseus as he rubbed the back of his head as Apollo snickered in the corner
"Okay, okay, let's get begin so we can see what is what," said Apollo
"Fine," said Artemis as she looked intently at Perseus. "Perseus, did you choose me to be your wife so that you could boast that you were the one to break my oath?"
"What!" exclaimed Perseus? "Milady is that what you believe. I'm sorry if I gave you that impression but no the fact that you're are a virgin goddess had nothing to do with me choosing you."
Artemis looked over to Apollo who nodded affirming that Perseus had indeed spoken the truth.
"Do you think that I am beautiful?" asked Artemis
"Yes, Mila…" Perseus started to say but was interrupted
"AHA!" exclaimed Artemis. "I knew you just wanted me to add another notch to your Asgardian bedpost!"
"Milady, please!" said a slightly irritated Perseus. "You are jumping to conclusions before I finish answering the question. I relented to your condition of having Apollo present to judge how truthful I am, so let me answer the questions so that he may perform his task."
"Sorry" Artemis mumbled under her breath
"Now as for your question, yes Milady you are indeed a very beautiful woman, however, the other goddess are beautiful as well. To pick one goddess based on beauty is impossible." Said Perseus
Apollo nodded as Artemis looked to him for assurance that Perseus is being truthful.
"What about Athena? She is a virgin goddess as well and is beautiful." Said Artemis
"You are correct Athena is technically a virgin goddess, however, she has found a way to be with different mortal men and to me it says I cannot trust her to remain loyal and committed to me if I had chosen her". Said Perseus "But then again part of the problem could be that with Poseidon as my biological father, their rivalry is affecting my judgment
"Why did you not choose Hestia instead of me?" asked Artemis
"Hestia is indeed a beautiful and kind woman. In my opinion, almost any god would be lucky to wed her. However, Hestia is a pacifist and marrying into the royal family of Asgard means that should we be attacked my betrothed must be willing to fight by my side in defense of Asgard. Fighting goes against Hestia's principles and beliefs and I will not in good conscience place her in that position. Then there is the fact that I felt nothing there for us to build on." Replied Perseus
"Can you expand on that last part?" asked Artemis
"Mmm… let's see, as you know when the announcement about me marrying a goddess to build trust between Asgard was made, I took the opportunity to search each goddess and determine how loyal she is and fair she is in dispensing justice, and perhaps most important was if I felt something towards the goddess that would enable us to build a life on. When I came to you I developed a feeling in my stomach, which is something I've never felt before, it was like butterflies flying around in my stomach." Said Perseus
"He is telling the truth," Apollo said to Artemis
"Are those the only reasons?" Artemis asked
After a moment of contemplation, Perseus said "No, th…
"Aha! I knew, I… started Artemis
"Artemis" yelled Apollo "let him talk your jumping to conclusions again."
"I thought you would be on my side Apollo?" said a sullen Artemis
"I am on your side Artemis, but he hasn't lied once and you keep interrupting him before he can finish talking. I know this is difficult for you but you need to hear him out." Said Apollo
"Thank you Lord Apollo," said Perseus. "Now where was I… oh yes, no Lady Artemis those were not the only reasons I chose you. Milady, you may not realize it but you possess the qualities of an Asgardian goddess, and I find these qualities pleasant and desirable." Said Perseus
"Can you list these qualities for me?" Artemis replied
"It would be my pleasure Milady. You possess a warrior's spirit like the goddess's of Asgard. You remind me of Brunnhilde and the Valkyries as you are independent, headstrong and have your own version of the Valkyries in the form of your hunt. All fine and desirable qualities for a goddess marrying into the royal family of Asgard." Stated Perseus
"Still telling the truth lil sis." Said a smirking Apollo
Artemis nodded in understanding and then asked "what about your girlfriends? How will they take the news that their boyfriend is getting married or are you intending to keep them?"
"Milady, I do not have any girlfriends" replied Perseus
"What! Surely you must be joking?" Artemis questioned as she looked to Apollo for verification to the truth of his statement.
"Even I as a virgin goddess can clearly see and admit that you are indeed a very handsome god and you expect me to believe that you do not have a girlfriend? What about ex-girlfriends?" Asked Artemis
"Uh…uh…mmm" Perseus muttered
"Speak up Prince of Asgard have I finally found something you will lie about?" asked Artemis
"No, Milady… its… it's just embarrassing." Said Perseus
"What! Are you going to tell me you have never had a girlfriend?! Artemis exclaimed as she looked at Perseus who slowly nodded his head
"WHAT!" Both Artemis and Apollo yelled at the same time
"Dude! How can you have never had a girlfriend? Even I think you're hot" exclaimed Apollo
"Uhhh… thank you I guess Apollo, but I don't want to marry you just your sister." Said Perseus
"Is he telling the truth Apollo?" asked Artemis
Apollo stood there in shock and slowly nodded
"How is it possible that in the millennia's that you have been alive that you have never had a girlfriend?" Artemis asked in astonishment
Perseus's face turned beet red as he tried to regain his composure before finally saying "Do you remember what I told you about my domain of loyalty? What you may not know is that domains for Asgardian gods are extremely powerful even more so than those of the Greek gods. If I were to have a girlfriend, then my domain of loyalty would make it so that I would be loyal to her no matter what. It would actually cause me pain if I tried to date someone else after her, so I would have to stay with her and she could do anything she wanted such as cheat on me and I could nothing about it. I would then be in a relationship much like that of Zeus and Hera's and I do not want that." Stated Perseus
"HOLD ON!" yelled Apollo
"What is it Apollo is he lying?" asked a stunned Artemis
"What you are saying…" Apollo started to say
"Please don't" begged Perseus whose face was turning even redder than it was before
"What Apollo? What is it?" begged a demanding Artemis
"Since you have never had a girlfriend that means you're still a… a… virgin!" Apollo exclaimed as he rolled on the floor laughing.
"Hmm" snickered Artemis as Perseus turned to face her with his bright red face. Once she got a good look at how red he was she couldn't hold it back any longer and started laughing as hard as Apollo was.
Perseus stood there shaking his head trying to regain his composure once again.
"If you two are finished laughing at the fact I'm still a virgin can we continue?" asked Perseus as the two gods erupted in laughter once again
After a few moments have passed the twin archers begin to recompose themselves.
"I'm sorry Perseus it never crossed my mind that you never having a girlfriend meant that you were still a virgin." Said Artemis
"Well it's not due to a lack of my brother trying, but yes I am." Said Perseus
"One more question and then we will be done." Said Artemis "Why must you have two wives?"
"As it was explained to me it is a tradition that is passed down through the royal family. My father once had two wives but during one of the many wars that Asgard has fought in one of them was killed. From what I understand, her death hit father extremely hard and if it was not for his second wife he may have well faded. As his sons Thor and I will also have two wives as tradition dictates there is nothing I can do about it, just know that I will learn to love and care for you to the best of my ability." Said an emotional Perseus
As Perseus finished speaking Artemis looked towards Apollo who said: "it's the truth he has not lied once."
At this Apollo walked over to Perseus and placed a hand on his shoulder and said: "Although, I'm still not too happy about this if Artemis has to marry someone I'm glad it's you."
"Thank You" replied Perseus. "Lady Artemis?"
"I must admit for a male you are not totally repugnant and after a little training, you may even be acceptable." Said a smiling Artemis as Apollo once again started laughing
"Of course Milady, of course." Replied Perseus
"You may leave us now Apollo whilst I ask Perseus another question that won't require your abilities," said Artemis
"Are you sure Artie?" teased Apollo
"Yes" seethed Artemis
"Very well, catch you too love birds at the council meeting," said Apollo causing the pair to blush before flashing off
"What was your other question Lady Artemis?" asked Perseus politely
"May I know who you intend to ask to be your second wife?" Artemis gently said, "Is it, Athena?"
"By The Presence NO," Perseus practically shouted catching Artemis off guard
"May I ask what is wrong with my sister?" said Artemis looking slightly miffed at the bo…man in front of her insulting her sister
"I mean no disrespect but that woman rubs me the wrong way, her hubris stops anything good coming from her and due to her already having children, it goes against my domain of loyalty as she has actively sought out numerous men to be with even if she has not sexually been with them" explained Perseus
"Understandable, so if not Athena who?" Artemis repeated her question
Rubbing the back of his neck Perseus responded "I…I was… going to ask Thalia, like you I feel a connection with her. But she ran out of the throne room crying for some reason, I will have to track her down" started Perseus before being interrupted by Artemis
"Well say no more, who better at finding a missing demigod than I, the goddess of the hunt" stated Artemis
"Are you sure you don't mind?" asked Perseus
"Of course not Thalia is my sister and I wish to be there when you ask her to be your wife alongside I" replied the goddess
"Very well, shall we," said Perseus standing up and holding out his hand which was promptly slapped away by Artemis causing Perseus to chuckle
/\/\/\/\/\
"I can't believe I ever loved him, how could I be so foolish. He's a god… of course he would marry two goddesses, not some lowly demigod" cried Thalia as you mercilessly wiped at her eyes trying to stop the tears that cascaded down her cheeks "Stupid, stupid, stupid!" she continued before she was interrupted by the very voice of the man she loved
"Thalia why are you crying? Is there something wrong?" Perseus quickly asked finally finding her which admittedly didn't take long thanks to Artemis
"Wrong, there's nothing wrong" hissed Thalia
"Then why are you crying?" countered Perseus
"Because I wanted to. Happy?" Thalia replied sarcastically
"Of course not, I would never be happy with your crying, why would you think that?" asked Perseus
"Doesn't matter" mumbled Thalia "where are your new wives, shouldn't you be with them now?" Thalia asked anger clear in her voice
"Well, that's why I'm here actually…" began Perseus before been interrupted by Thalia "Why is Artemis here?!"
"Artemis… has agreed to become one of my wives" Perseus let Thalia swallow that bit of information as said girl looked shocked that Artemis would agree but before she could continue Perseus moved on "and I was hoping that you… would accept… that you would…" coughing awkwardly Perseus began to rub the back of his neck making Thalia fluster at having to wait "will you be my wife alongside Artemis?"
White was all Thalia could see at hearing these words, the mortal saying 'on cloud nine' came to her mind.
"Tha…Thal…Thalia are you ok" she heard through her mind
"What…oh yes sorry" replied Thalia
Coughing into his hand Perseus waited…and waited
"Thalia, do you accept Perseus's proposal?" asked Artemis noticing she had yet to answer
"Proposal? Asked Thalia confused
"Will you be my wife alongside Artemis?" repeated Perseus
It was real, thought Thalia before a smile threatened to split her face before she squealed "YES!" then proceeding to leap into Perseus arms causing Artemis to roll her eyes.
"Come, I think we should inform the council," said Artemis as the three of them flashed back to Olympus
/\/\/\/\/\
"Ah my son you have returned with your wives I presume," asked Odin quietly to his son as he returned to the packed throne room which had every immortal on Olympus in it
"Umm…yes, I have chosen, asked, and they have accepted." Answered Perseus before looking at all the people present "why are the citizens of Olympus here father?"
Laughing at his son's shyness Odin answered "Lord Zeus thought it only right to inform all of Olympus of the impending wedding"
"Did he now" muttered Perseus
"Come now my son, wait until we inform our citizens back on Asgard, the parties will last for weeks" Odin chuckled
"Don't remind me?" said Perseus before hearing his name been called by Zeus
"Have you chosen your wives Prince Perseus?" asked Zeus regally always the flair for drama
"I have, my choices if they accept my proposal are Artemis daughter of Zeus…and Thalia Grace daughter of Zeus as well" declared Perseus
Before anyone could continue a shrill voice shouted;
"WHAT?! You chose a demigod over me, I demand to know why!" said Athena
"I am afraid Pallas Athena" started Odin causing her to flinch at her full name "you and my son are not compatible"
"How are we not compatible?!" shouted Athena to which Perseus answered
"You have had children with other men. Even if they are born from your mind you have still sought out the company of numerous men to accomplish this. Because you have done this, your actions conflict directly with my domain of loyalty. Whereas Artemis and Thalia have not."
"Athena enough!" Warned Zeus knowing Athena would continue with her argument "Perseus has made his choice. Artemis do you accept the hand of Perseus in marriage?" asked Zeus looking at his daughter
Smiling nervously Artemis said "I do father"
Smiling gently at his daughter Zeus nodded his head in acceptance before turning to look at his demigod daughter. "Thalia Grace my daughter. Do you accept Perseus's hand in marriage?"
Smiling brightly Thalia said "I do, father"
Once Thalia had agreed Zeus and Odin stood and shook hands before congratulating their respective children. Before been congratulated by everyone else as the throne room went into an uproar as everyone cheered. Except Athena who sat sullenly on her throne thinking of a way to make Perseus hers.
"Well Artemis congratulations, you too Thalia my dear," said, Aphrodite
"Thank you," said Artemis narrowing her eyes in suspicion
"Why are you looking at me like that?" asked an innocent looking love goddess
"What are you up to?" demanded Artemis
"Me nothing…" Aphrodite said before receiving a glare from both Artemis and Thalia "fine, fine, I wish to talk to the two of you in my palace, Freyja the Asgardian love goddess will be joining us, so do not be late." And before either woman could protest, Aphrodite sauntered off to who knows where probably to see Thor.
"Thalia I must see our father and talk about what will happen to the hunt now that I will have… other duties to attend to" said Artemis quietly which received a nod from Thalia before working over to her father
"Ah there's my baby girl," said Zeus in a joyous tone, as he pulled Artemis in for a rare hug making said goddess blush "what is it you need my daughter?"
"It…it is… about my hunt. What will happen to my girls now that…I…I…will be indisposed?" asked Artemis quietly
"Have no fear Artemis. Odin and I have already discussed this and he has recommended that the Nightshade girl becomes a goddess and take over leading the hunt in your stead. I am sure Perseus will have no qualms with you visiting your girls so there's no need to leave them." Said Zeus gently
"You will allow for Zoe to be a goddess?" asked Artemis surprised her father will allow the daughter of a Titan to be a god
"If it makes you happy my daughter, then it is perfectly fine with me" smiled Zeus causing tears to come to Artemis eyes which will remain unshed, she had a reputation to uphold after all
After the eventful winter solstice which included the promise of a polyamory wedding. The newly engaged trio proceeded to thank the citizens of Olympus for their kind words and well wishes (although most were too afraid to approach Artemis) and most of the ladies were congratulating Thalia on catching the eye of the handsome prince while some were giving her ideas that would have made Aphrodite blush.
Once the citizens of Olympus had departed the throne room the gods were once again able to convene the meeting so that they could discuss important events, which at the moment the topic of discussion was the great prophecy and who the prophecy child could be. However, they were interrupted momentarily as Perseus, Odin and Thor returned to the throne room.
"Good evening Asgardians," said Hades respectfully
"Good evening Hades, Olympians" returned Odin "I must return to Asgard soon, I was just wondering if there is anything that I may be of help with?"
Looking around most of the gods had the same question on their minds, finally, Hera spoke up. "Do you know who the prophecy child is and if so could you possibly tell us who the child is Lord Odin?"
At this Odin was surprised as he asked: "You don't know who the child is yet?" With the looks of confusion and surprise on the gods faces, Odin could tell that they did not know who the child of prophecy was. "Thalia Grace is the child of prophecy" Odin declared causing everyone to look upon the poor girl who shrunk back at all the stares
"Why did you think we would assume it would be Thalia as unfortunately there is also Max to consider," said Hera mumbling the last part
"Max is not and has never been a part of the equation; Thalia is eighteen…" said Odin before Apollo cut him saying Thalia was only sixteen off causing Odin to glare making Apollo tug nervously on his shirt. "Actually, Kronos has been using the time stone to essentially halt her aging process. Mainly from her unfortunate time as a tree"
"What! I'm actually eighteen?" squeaked Thalia
"Yes my child" replied Odin kindly
"So…like…how do I… I become my correct age?" asked Thalia
"With your father's permission and the help of your fiancé, I will use Perseus time powers to break the 'curse' that Kronos has placed on you," said Odin who looked to Zeus and received a nod of approval not that he needed it but liked to be respectful. Perseus who blushed slightly along with Thalia from being called her fiancé clasped his father's shoulder and imbued a portion of his time powers into his father, who struck the floor with his spear and recanted an ancient spell. "Vedhjelpavkraftenavtidfra Perseus Odinson, i min far oghans far før, kommandoenjegherved at denneforbannelsensomblefeilaktigplassertpå Thalia nådefjernes." Once he finished Thalia was engulfed in a brilliant golden glow before the first of many changes in her started to be noticed. First, her height grew slightly, her muscles grew a bit more defined and flexible. Her beauty seemed to increase along with her breasts size that grew in proportion to her height giving an ample size to them, slightly bigger than average yet it still made Apollo and Hermes's jaws drop causing Perseus to grind his teeth and not smash them with storm breaker.
Once finished Artemis knew Apollo would say something so she beat him to it. "Apollo open your mouth and I will crush your balls" making him snap his mouth shut.
"Well Thalia, I didn't think you could get any sexier but *wolf whistles*," said Aphrodite causing Thalia to blush "you, Artemis and Perseus are in for a hell of a time" making all three blush
"Aphrodite" hissed Artemis as everyone except Athena started chuckling
"Just stating the facts" smirked the love goddess
"Well now that we know my daughter is the child of the prophecy, let us continue" stated Zeus as the gods and three Asgardians continued on with the meeting.
/\/\/\/\/\
"What are our next steps milord?" asked Luke as he stared upon the golden sarcophagus where the king of the Titans lay
"Send a squadron of demigods, along with some monsters, and find a way to transverse the labyrinth. There must be an entrance to that damned Camp Half-Blood that I can use to send my armies through and destroy that cannon fodder the gods call children. Find Daedalus, convince him to give you Ariadne's String, promise him anything, this will allow my armies to move through the labyrinth unhindered." Commanded Kronos in a grave tone
"Yes milord" sniveled Luke before practically fleeing from the room
Suddenly one of the stone guard statues glowed green before revealing the form of Loki who simply chuckled. "Are you sure it is wise, sending that pathetic weakling to do your orders, you know he will fail"
"Perhaps, but his success or failure rate is not what why I keep him around, all I need is his body to use as a vessel until I assume my true form" informed Kronos
"I know, but with his every failure, my brother gains more knowledge, it would be unwise to underestimate him in battle Kronos," Loki said to Kronos in a serious tone
" I gain important knowledge as well. With his every battle I am able to study him so that I can prepare myself for the final battle in which I will crush him and show everyone who the true Lord of Time is" growled Kronos
Laughing softly Loki responded "If you say so" before glowing green and disappearing yet again
Back on Olympus
"Finally for our last order of business for the day, I…I… would like to apologize to this council for my behavior and the tantrums I have been guilty of in the past. I would also like to thank Lord Odin for showing me how important it is for family to stand together, especially in a time such as this. So as of now Hades and Hestia are now members of the Olympian council and a cabin will be built for the children of Hades at Camp Half-Blood. To alienate anyone due to some preconceived status is foolish and is something I have been guilty of for far too long and has placed us in the situation we are currently in, so from this day forth all gods whether they be minor, major, or Olympian will be treated with respect and honor as will their demigods. As such the Athena and Hephaestus, cabins will immediately begin the planning and building of cabins for the demigod children of all the major and minor gods. As unfortunate as it sounds we will have to fight some of these gods as they are rightfully bitter at their treatment by me. To try and apologize for words would be useless as I have done too much for them to believe any apology I can offer, so I and hopefully you as well can prove that these changes are genuine and real through our actions." Stated a passionate Zeus
At first, the council room was silent and then cheering could be heard as two new thrones rose up from out of the floor. The first was a pitch black throne made from Obsidian, it's arms encrusted with skulls that had glowing rubies for eyes, whilst around the base were scenes of death, fitting images for the Lord of the Underworld whereas the second throne was the complete opposite, it was a soft color orange that emitted warmth and hope that seeped into the bones of everyone present. Its arms were a nice velvet red and around the base where images of mortals showing compassion and feeling hope in situations where there was none. For the first time in many centuries, the throne room was happy and full of joy. Happy at the prospect of the Olympians becoming the family they once were and joy and the impending nuptials of Perseus, Artemis, and Thalia. Everyone with the exception of three people was happy, Ares because he had his ass handed to him yet again and Annabeth and Athena at the fact Perseus was marrying Artemis and Thalia.
Athena daughter of Zeus, Goddess of Wisdom, Battle Strategies and Crafts sat on her throne with a blank expression, unfortunately, for three certain people she is PISSED! She has known since Hoover Dam that there was a possibility of an alliance being formed between Olympus and Asgard. She even knew that a marriage between the royal families would most likely be a part of the conditions for the alliance. But never did she think that a demigod… a lowly fucking demigod…would be chosen as a viable bride over her. It…it's…just asinine for such a thing to occur. Admittedly the shock had caused her to throw a bit of a tantrum but once she recovered from the shock Athena knew what needed to be done, and to accomplish this she would need a plan. If there is one thing everyone knows about Athena it is that she always always has a plan.
/\/\/\/\/\