Hey peoples! Guess who's baaack!? I am!

Anyway, sorry it took so long. I've had a lot of personal and school trouble, and then my computer broke down; so of course I had to wait and get a new laptop.

But, I'm back now! So, hopefully I should be able to update more now that Summer is on the way!

Warning: This story contains strong LGBT themes, and has mild sexual situations(PG-13).

Disclaimer: I do not own Percy Jackson and the Olympians or the Heroes of Olympus series. The only thing I own is the OCs and the plot.

Everyone remained silent; their eyes staring at the two newcomers.

Hera stood unmoving by her throne; her hands covering her mouth, and her eyes were leaking tears.

Just as she found the will to speak, a huge clashing sound echoed around the amphitheater, and a note floated down into the older newcomer's hand.

She read it silently before hesitantly speaking up, "It-it says I can introduce myself, but R- she-" The woman pointed at the other arrival with her hand, "Has to wait until the end of the chapter, and no hints about who she is can be given until then."

Hera had a huge smile on her face, as the other listeners began whispering to each other about the identity of the eldest newcomer, "Well then, introduce yourself ma'am."

The lady smiled and stepped forward. She had light brown hair, hazel eyes, and a glowing skin tone; she looked early thirties maybe late twenties. All in all, she was beautiful. The first thing she did was bend down, and touch the soft grass; picking up a stone and turning it in her hand, as if she didn't believe it was real, "I'm really here..."

Zeus glowered in his seat, and lightning flashed across the sky. The king of the gods glared at the woman hatefully, "We don't have all day mortal."

Hera turned and smacked him on the arm, before looking back as the woman began to introduce herself.

"I'm Susan Holt," she bowed respectfully to the gods, and turned and nodded at the half-bloods.

Shocked gasps resonated in the air, and Hera let out a happy laugh before running to the woman and lifting her in her arms; spinning her around in a circle and peppering kisses on her face.

Zeus growled loudly, and Hera stopped and turned to face him, "Break. Now."

The sky god got an offended look at being ordered around, and glared, "What? So you can go off with your girlfriend? I don't think so."

Instead of getting angry, Hera simply smirked and shook her head, "I don't care what you think. I already know what's going to happen. I don't have to be here and listen, and neither does Susan. Either you give a break, or we leave anyway."

The demigods all shuffled nervously; the last chapter was a long one, and they were itching to get up and stretch their legs. Many threw pleading looks to the king.

Zeus huffed and crossed his arms, "Fine! 15 minutes! Meet back in the amphitheater once the break's up."

The demigods all cheered and jumped out of their seats. Hera and Susan both hugged the second newcomer, then went and disappeared into the marriage goddess's cabin.

The other mystery person just kind of stood there awkwardly, and looked around. The Seven and Nico, Reyna, and Thalia were the only ones left in the amphitheater with her, as the gods all flashed to their cabins too.

"Umm, should we introduce ourselves?" Piper asked; curiously watching the other girl.

Thalia shrugged and began walking towards the mystery girl, "Why not?"

Leo grinned and followed, "You know, I bet that's Hera's demigod daughter right there. Maybe that's why her identity has to be kept secret; Zeus would see her very existence as an insult to his power."

Annabeth sighed, "Whatever the reason for keeping her identity secret, I suggest we go along with it. You don't want to anger the fates."

The others nodded and followed along. As they got closer they noticed more details about the woman's appearance. She had straight brown hair cut at the shoulders, a medium skin complexion, and was tall and lean. But what really alerted them to the fact that she was most likely a half-blood, was the fact that she had several scars and a prosthetic arm starting right below her elbow. And not just any arm, it was made out of celestial bronze and looked as real as her other. The only way they even noticed it, was because it was a different skin tone compared to the upper part of her arm.

Leo was bouncing on the balls of his feet, "Oh this is so cool! Is that made out of celestial bronze!? Can you use it as a weapon?!"

The other girl watched as Leo grabbed her arm and began poking and prodding at the joints of her mechanical hand. Piper quickly pulled Leo back, before smacking his head and turning to apologize, "I'm sorry about that. Leo doesn't know the meaning of personal space."

The girl smiled and shook her head, "No it's fine. It's understandable for a son of Hephaestus to be intrigued by this handiwork."

Reyna narrowed her eyes skeptically, "How did you know he was a child of Vu-Hephaestus?"

She shrugged, "I can sense it. I know all about you guys just from looking. It's a gift I was born with."

Nico cocked his head to the side, "Interesting. How did you lose half of your arm?"

Hazel hissed and elbowed Nico in the gut, before turning back to face the no-name girl, "Sorry about him."

She just held up a hands, "Hey it's fine; I don't mind questions. And, I lost half my arm in a monster attack when I was younger."

Percy and Frank winced, "That sucks."

"I don't mind. Now I can kill monster's with one punch. It worked out fine for me."

Jason held back a laugh and turned and looked around, "Well, it look's like people are returning to the amphitheater already. We should go back to our seats."

Thalia pointed back to where the Hunters were sitting, "You're welcome to sit with the Hunters. Since you're new and all."

She grinned slightly, and walked with Thalia to where the Hunters were gathering, "Sure. You can call me One for now. It's what my girlfriend calls me."

Thalia raised an eyebrow, "You have a girlfriend?"

One nodded and looked at the daughter of Zeus, "That's not a problem is it?"

Thalia shook her head, "No it's not. Just curious."

As, everyone returned to the area; Hera and Susan showed up, and the queen of the gods turned her throne into a loveseat so that Susan could stay and sit with her.

Zeus scowled at them, but did not say anything.

Hazel held up the book and gestured to everyone, "May I start reading now?"

The gods nodded and Hazel opened up the book.

Chapter 7

Arriving back at my cabin estate was a relief to me that night. Since the time zones were different in New York and California, I got back by nine o'clock; even though it was nearly midnight in New York at the moment.

Annabeth nodded, "They are different. It can take some getting used to if you move or travel a lot."

So, I had some free time before bed.

"To spend with Susan!" Apollo teased; making annoying kissy faces which made said woman blush and Hera glare.

Artemis smacked him. Hard.

As soon as I closed the front door, I was greeted to being tackled by a overly-happy pregnant woman, "Hera!"

Susan looked at her immortal lover, "When was this?"

Hera turned and whispered in her ear, so that other's would not hear and learn any spoilers.

A look of understanding came over the mortal woman's face, and she smiled and nodded.

I laughed and spun her around; capturing her lips in a gentle kiss, "Hello love. Miss me?"

Susan grinned and shook her head, "No it's not that. Something's happened!"

Instantly, I became paranoid, "What!? What happened!? Are you hurt? Is the baby hurt? Do I need to hurt someone else?"

Hephaestus grunted, "You're very protective aren't you mother?"

Hera grinned and nuzzled Susan's neck, "I have reason to be."

'One' mimicked throwing up.

Sue giggled beautifully, "No silly!"

Leo giggled stupidly, "Hah, she called you silly."

Piper and Jason rolled their eyes.

"Then what is it?" I asked.

"That's what we want to know," Will said.

The mother of my child took her hand, grabbed mine, and pressed it against her swollen stomach, "Just feel."

Athena raised an eyebrow.

Susan smiled as she remembered the event they were reading about.

Immediately, a prominent 'thump' vibrated against the palm of my hand.

A few people perked up at that, and beamed at the couple sitting in Hera's couch-throne thing.

One had a small smile on her face.

As another 'thump' was made evident, I kneeled down in front of her stomach and pressed an ear to the baby bump.

Ares sighed and shook his head, "Greaaat, another sibling to add to the long list."

Hera smirked at her son, "You have your father to thank for that."

Zeus blushed and looked away from everyone's teasing faces, before sending a glare to his wife.

'Thump.'

I pulled away from Susan's abdomen and looked up at her, "The babe's kicking! I just felt our baby kick!"

Aphrodite put down her hand-held mirror and smiled, "I love feeling kicks. It proves there is life inside me."

Artemis cocked her head to the side, "Wow. Who knew you could be smart for once?"

"Oh, I can be many things sweetie," the love goddess smirked at the now enraged huntress.

Artemis grabbed her brother's remaining shoe, and hurtled it at the smug goddess.

Aphrodite dodged, before stopping once Zeus sent her a warning look.

Susan smiled and looked down at me, "I felt the first kick an hour after you left, and it continued for a while. But, the moment you came back he just went insane!"

Poseidon raised an eyebrow, "The baby sensed you? He must be powerful for that to happen."

Hera smiled proudly, a smug light appeared in her eye, "Oh my child is very powerful."

I grinned happily and shot up; kissing my wonderful girlfriend lovingly, "That's cause he sensed his 'daddy.' I got a powerful half-blood in the making."

"I sure do."

"This already happened Tia."

"Quiet boy."

"Daddy?" Susan smirked, "So you're gonna stick with daddy?"

I shrugged, "I don't care. I am the sire. So dad isn't really a bad thing to call me."

"Yet, most goddesses already said that they preffered to be called sire," Reyna looked thoughtful. "Perhaps it is because you are the goddess of families?"

"Maybe," Hera shrugged. "Honestly, I just don't really care."

Susan grinned impishly, before heading back towards the living room (or at least one of them). "Well then, I do believe it's movie night!"

Apollo grinned devilishly, "Oh, but we already know what happened at the last movie night!"

Hera sent a sharp glare at her step-son, and Artemis elbowed him in the ribs.

The sun god shut up.

I followed without hesitation, "Well, you would be correct, my lady."

Sue smirked back at me, "What would you like to watch, my queen?"

I reached the living room seconds after her, and bowed regally in front of her, "The choice is yours, my goddess."

"I hate those nicknames," Susan muttered; crossing her arms.

Hera laughed.

Sue rolled her eyes, but smiled none-the-less. "We never did get to watch the Great Outdoors."

"Hmm," I ran my eyes up and down her body. "I do believe we were a bit occupied that weekend."

Zeus grumbled in his throne; pouting like a child.

His siblings all rolled their eyes at him, however Susan watched him warily.

The demigods all giggled.

Susan blushed and threw a pillow at me, "Just play the movie."

I laughed and did as told, simultaneously kick-starting the fireplace. Then I grabbed a huge handmade quilt, and cuddled up to the wondrous woman beside me, "Enjoy the movie babe."

Said babe sighed and leaned into me; resting her head on my chest and listening to my heartbeat. We watched the movie comfortably, laughing at the humorous parts.

"Ahh," Travis sighed. "I love comedies."

Hermes and his children nodded in agreement with the prankster.

Susan fell asleep midway through the movie, so I adjusted her position to make her more comfortable; resting my hands on her stomach and kissing the sensitive part of her neck (which caused her to momentarily squirm in her sleep).

Percy blinked, "You seem to kiss her neck a lot."

Hera shrugged, "Her neck is so smooth and pale. I don't know, I have a thing for necks I guess?"

"You're a pervert Tia."

"No one asked you brat."

Susan smacked the queen of the gods.

Then, I leaned down and whispered lovingly in her ear, "You're everything to me. My whole world now revolves around you. I will always protect you, and love and cherish you like no other. I've fallen in love with you Susan Holt, and to me nothing else matters."

Aphrodite and her children all gushed and awed.

Susan blushed majorly.

Zeus growled violently, and Hera uneasily pulled Susan closer to her.

"Do you really mean that?"

I jumped slightly and looked down at my not sleeping girlfriend, "Of course I do! Why would I lie about that?"

"That would be a horrible thing to lie about," Aphrodite shuddered. "Love is not something to be kidding about! It's sacred and holy and should be held with the utmost respect!"

Artemis scoffed, "Hah! That actually almost made sense! Too bad you don't follow your own rules."

Aphrodite frowned. Artemis smirked.

Susan had a sad look in her eyes, "I've read the myths. Gods don't normally stay around to long."

The gods' eyes darkened; Apollo leaned forward in his throne and actually frowned, "Yes, but that's not our decision. The ancient rules prevent us from interfering or staying around. We have to obey."

A few demigods scoffed, and Thalia rolled her eyes, "Didn't seem to stop Hera."

"Well, the situation is a bit different when you got the creator of the universe looming over your shoulder," Athena mused. "Not even the fates interfere with that primordial."

"And other times, they make their lovers immortal; so that they may spend eternity with them," I pointed out; gently kissing the sleepy woman.

"Like Ganymede," Piper said; causing the Grace siblings to shiver and Zeus to squirm bashfully in his seat.

Hades and Poseidon rolled their eyes.

"But you're married," Susan reminded;

Zeus grumbled in his seat, and glared at Susan. "Yes. She is."

The mortal woman grimaced and looked down; just in time to miss the horrifying look Hera threw at her husband, while simultaneously wrapping an arm around her lover.

causing me to freeze up in anger as my thoughts drifted to my stupid husband.

Demeter snickered, "Well, he is rather unintelligent sometimes, isn't he?"

Zeus narrowed his royal eyes at his sister.

I growled lowly in my throat, "You just had to remind me didn't you?"

Susan sighed and shook her head, "You're such a drama queen sometimes."

"HEY!"

Susan glared and smacked my arm, "I'm being serious here Hera. You are married, and making me immortal isn't really an option because of it."

"Zeus did it."

I raised an eyebrow elegantly, "And why not? Zeus has had a lot of immortal lovers in the past, I mean just look at Ganymede; he made that boy immortal."

"See!?"

"No one disagreed with you there wise girl."

"Shut up Percy."

"Yes ma'am."

Susan sighed softly, "Yeah, but you're the goddess of marriage."

"There are many types of marriages in existence. Just because a two people relationship is the normal standard, does not mean that it is the only thing Hera presides over," Nyx stated.

Many of the demigods widened their eyes, and began feverishly discussing this new information.

Hera, meanwhile, threw the goddess a thankful look.

"I am," I chuckled lowly; beginning to trail kisses up and down her pale neck.

"Oooohhhh," Hermes snickered. "Hera's in a mood."

The prankster god's stepmother threw her step-son a glare, and the other immature attendees all broke out in laughter.

Susan sunk in her seat, and tried to hide behind Hera.

"Which means, I decide what is acceptable in marriages; so, who's to say I can't simply make having a permanent lover okay in my own marriage?"

"Because, it isn't fair for me," Zeus muttered.

Hera scoffed, "And it wasn't fair to me when you cheated a thousand times!"

He didn't respond.

Susan's eyes slowly began to glaze over as I continued to kiss and nibble on her neck, "We'll talk about it later?"

Aphrodite squealed loudly; causing many to groan and cover their ears, "Susan likes it!"

Said woman blushed horribly and hid her face in her hands.

Hera sighed and shook her head, "Stop mortifying her Aphrodite."

"No promises."

I sighed softly against her skin, causing a jolt to run down her spine, "Later."

"Hera! The movie!"

"Well, lets move that to later too."

Ares grunted as he sharpened his knife for the millionth time that day, "You know, Mom can be smooth when she wants."

"Why thank you, my son."

Time went on, and before I knew it; months had pasted. In no time at all, we had reached the last day of May.

I myself was in a very good mood. In fact, I spent most of my time bouncing off the walls nowadays; which seemed to actively amuse Susan.

Susan chuckled and looked at Hera, "It was adorable. I'd never seen you so hyper."

The queen of the gods smiled and turned to kiss her girlfriend, "I was excited. I was going to be a proud parent any day. It happens."

"Hera," Susan lay on the bed lazily; since, the baby was now due any day, I was adamant on her getting her rest. "Calm down, I don't think I've ever seen you so hyper. Not quite how I pictured the great queen of the gods."

"Not quite how anyone would have pictured the great queen of the gods I think," Hestia teased lightly.

Hera grinned at her sister, and the hearth goddess noticed how much happier her little sister looked once Susan arrived.

I hopped off the mini trampoline I had brought up to our room,

"Seriously?" Leo laughed, "A mini trampoline?"

"Shut up."

and pranced over to Susan's bedside; jumping onto the bed, and wrapping my arms around her now very swollen abdomen. "I can't help it. The baby is due any day now, and my birthday is tomorrow!"

"Wait!" Katie held her hands up, "Your birthday is June 1st?"

Hera nodded, "Well, there is a reason June is my special month, you know."

"Right."

Susan laughed and pulled my lips to hers, capturing my senses in a sweet kiss, "I still can't believe your birthday is June 1st."

"That's what I thought."

I grinned against her lips, and pushed her onto her back, "Well, it is my sacred month babe."

"Huh," Susan smirked lightly. "I thought it was Juno's."

"It is," Annabeth mumbled.

Susan smiled bashfully.

Almost immediately, I felt the familiar tugging sensation as Juno stirred within me.

"Uh oh," Apollo sang. "Some wants to be let out."

"Is that a good idea though?" Reyna mused. "I mean the woman is pregnant with your greek child. But, you don't seem to have the greek vs. roman problem."

One held back a snort, and Hera actually laughed, "No. That's never been a big problem for me. Family is family after all."

The demigods all exchanged looks, and Jason and Percy looked around at the gathered half-bloods. Even if they weren't happy with the queen switching them, they did know that the plan was crucial in defeating Gaea.

I winced slightly at the ferocity she was showing, and obeyed her request to be let out; my greek persona receding, while the queen of Rome surged forth.

"Queen of attitude you mean," Aphrodite giggled.

"Just shut up. Don't you even speak."

Susan yelped and pushed me off the bed; her surprise at my sudden change of appearance was clear.

"It was surprising," Susan remembered. "One second you're one person, and the next second you're someone else."

"Sorry," Hera chuckled and kissed her forehead. "I probably should of warned you about that."

"That would have been appreciated."

My mind settled into Roman mode, and I simply stood up and stared at the female holding her pregnant abdomen protectively and moving away from me in fear, "Who... who are you!? What happened to Hera!?"

"It's still Hera. Well, kind of. In a way it is."

"Shut up Travis."

"Sorry Katie."

I cocked my head to the side curiously and stared; after a few seconds I was hit by the sudden rush of memories of Susan from my greek form. Love immediately flooded my senses, and I gently crawled onto the bed, "It's me Sue."

"Well, it's kind of you. You're just, you know, roman at the moment," Hermes commented.

"Oh really? I didn't know that at all," Hera replied, rolling her brown eyes.

"You should work on that step-mother," Hermes stated; professionally nodding his head in agreement with his words.

"Hermes?"

"Yeah dad?"

"Please be quiet son," Zeus said; giving his son an annoyed look.

"Okay, sorry. I will."

Susan froze in surprise, and I carefully pulled her to me; softly kissing her lips and wrapping my arms around her waist in an effort to get her to see that I was still her Hera. She put her hands on my face, and smiled, "Okay. There's only one person I know who can kiss that well. Is it really you?"

"Isn't Hera the only person you've ever kissed?" Hermes asked; casually scratching his back with George and Martha.

Owww. Owww. Stop.

Or at least give me a rat.

"Oh, sorry. And, no rat for you."

Susan meanwhile blushed and looked own, "Yeah, she is."

I nodded, "Of course it's me. I'm just in my roman form at the moment. I go by Juno when I'm like this."

Sue grabbed at my hair, "Your hair color is darker. You're more tan, and your eye's are darker too. You're kind of intimidating."

The romans all nodded in agreement with the mortal's words, "Oh yeah. You're one of the highest respected gods of Rome. Everyone knows how intimidating you can be."

Hera simply raised an eyebrow, "That's how you chose to see me. You build up a picture of a perfect queen, and imagine me like that. Even when my true personality may be more different than you all know."

One smirked, "Don't we all know it."

I kissed her temple lightly, and grinned. "Sorry. I don't change much in this form. The appearance is actually probably the only major thing. Other than that, I'm pretty much the same."

"Interesting..."

Susan pulled me down for another kiss and smirked against my lips, "Good. You're still a loser then."

"HEY!"

Everyone broke out laughing at that, while Susan sent Hera an apologetic look.

The queen of the gods smiled at the mortal woman, and the hearth rose a full foot at her happiness.

I was awoken by the sounds of screams around midnight;

Susan paled and turned to face Hera, "Is this when...?"

Hera nodded, a small light in her eye.

Susan smiled slightly.

Susan's screams to be exact, "Hera! HERA!"

"What happened!?" Malcolm asked. "Did you get hurt!?"

Susan shook her head, "No, no. Just read, and I'm sure everything will be explained soon enough."

A flash lite up some goddesses eyes, as they began to understand what was happening to Susan. Demeter and Hestia threw their little sister estatic smiles.

Zeus glowered in his throne childishly.

Immediately, I jumped out of bed and went to her side of the mattress, "What is it? What's wrong!?"

Her eyes were clenched shut, and despite the cool air; she was covered in a thin layer of sweat. She tried to talk, but a wave of pain hit her, and she groaned and clutched her massive stomach.

By now everyone had caught on to the situation, and let out a collective sigh.

"Oh! She's in labor!" Leo realized; when a thought occurred to him, and he turned to face his siblings, "Dudes! We're gonna have a new aunt or uncle that we can actually hang out with!"

Zeus cleared his throat, and gestured towards Thalia and Jason, "You have my side of the family. They are your aunt and uncle."

Hera rolled her eyes, "Zeus you have so many children, it doesn't count for you anymore."

I knew what was happening right then, "Did your water break?"

Susan managed a pained nod, before letting out a soft cry of pain, "It hurts!"

Artemis winced as she remembered the pain her mother had went through, so that she could give birth to Apollo, "Childbirth is very painful."

All the women who had kids nodded in agreement.

I kissed her forehead gently, before standing and calling for a servant. After that, I rushed to the closet and pulled out a large sweater for her, before dressing myself. The nymph who answered helped Susan pull the sweater over her pajamas, while I went and grabbed all the necessary paper work from my office.

Susan smiled and leaned against Hera, "You were so wonderful and attentive. I don't know how I managed without you."

Athena narrowed her eyes, "What do you mean 'without you?' Did something happen?"

The two women flinched, and their eyes turned stormy.

Hera threw a horrific glare at her unfaithful husband.

Once everything was collected, I flashed downstairs to the garage. Susan was already sitting in the passenger seat of the car, nymphs surrounded her and gave comforting words.

Demeter tilted her head slightly and grinned, "Nymphs are so helpful and great."

Persephone rolled her eyes, "You're just saying that cause you got lucky with the rose nymph from the White House gardens last month."

The agriculture goddess blushed, while all her half-blood children looked extremely embarrassed.

Lysander sat in the backseat, a baby bag was next to him.

"Good bird."

I walked through the crowd, the nymphs parting respectfully. I closed the passenger door, and turned to the mob, "Baby proof the house. After that everyone gets the month off; with pay."

They all nodded excitedly, and went back into the house. Maia was the only one who didn't. She gave me a hug, and smiled at Susan. "Good luck. I can't wait to me the little monster!"

One grinned and hid her face as best as she could, but those who looked closely could see how she kept peering at Susan Holt. How she watched her like she couldn't believe she really existed.

Aphrodite noticed and let out a sad sigh.

I grinned at the mother of Hermes, "Me too. I will call every six hours on updates. Make sure everything runs smoothly while I'm gone."

The immortal nymph smiled impishly, "Don't I always?"

"Apparently," Hermes whispered; a longing look on his face as he stared at the book in Hazel's hands.

The greek and roman prankster spawns all had the same expression while they pondered what their paternal grandmother was like.

They were dying to know.

We laughed and separated. Maia went back inside, while I went to the driver's seat of the car. Susan was waiting patiently, and kissed me once I had buckled in, "Let's go."

The drive to the hospital was nerve-wracking for me.

"I can imagine," Dakota widened his eyes. "I mean you're gonna be a parent again! A baby is on the way! A new life-! OW!"

Everyone turned to watch as Gwen smacked the irresponsible centurion upside the head.

Dionysus raised an eyebrow, and shot a quick disapproving look at the daughter of Venus, before disappearing back behind his magazine.

Everyone else cracked up.

Susan slept mostly, I had given her a relaxing blessing to help with the pain,

Hestia nodded, "That was a good idea sister."

"Thanks. I guess..." Hera replied. She was still on iffy terms with her siblings.

Hestia frowned slightly, and Demeter gave her elder sister a sympathetic look.

and Lysander stayed mostly quiet. Although, he would squawk every now and then at some bird or deer he saw.

"Aww!" Lacy smiled; while Drew rolled her eyes, "How cute! He's like a dog!"

Hera cocked her head to the side, "He certainly acts like one sometimes."

I was lost in my thoughts (which isn't smart to do while you're driving if you're not a god), since this was my first demigod born in nearly six-hundred years. It was a big freaking deal for me.

"It would be for anyone," Nyx said. "The birth of your child is something you will remember for the rest of your life. It is a big deal."

Hera bowed her head at the primordial, "I know Nyx."

After another hour of mental torment, annoying bird squawking, and soft snoring;

A few people laughed at that.

I pulled into the hospital parking lot. However, once I looked in the review mirror, I cursed my femaleness.

Athena smirked and actually laughed.

Apollo, Hermes, and Poseidon let out shocked noises at the sight, and exchanged looks. "She's laughing! The stick-up-her-butt goddess is actually laughing!"

Athena glared at the three, before explaining the reason for her amusement. "I was laughing because of the situation our step-mother is in. She cannot just walk into the hospital in female form and say, "Hey I'm a woman, and I sired a child with another woman!" Mortal minds cannot comprehend what godly blood can do!"

Hera nodded, "Exactly. Thank you Athena."

"You are welcome."

How could I walk in their and say I fathered the child?

"You'd get sent to crazy town."

"I know."

Mortals would never understand.

"True that." Percy mumbled.

Rachel glared, "You know I am sitting right here!"

"Oh, yeah. Sorry."

So instead, I closed my eyes and focused on changing my appearance. When I opened my eyes and looked in the mirror once more, I was pleased to she a male appearance staring back at me.

Artemis crossed her arms and scowled.

Chiseled face, dark shaggy hair, and my signature chocolate brown eyes. Yep, this will do.

"Ooooh!" Aphrodite squealed, "Can we see? Please, please, please, please?"

Hera sighed and leaned back, "Why? It's not very important what I looked like. You already know the base details."

"Still," the love goddess whined. "I want to see!"

"Fine." Hera groaned, before her appearance started to morph into a male form.

The first thing everyone noticed, was that her male form was tall and lean; as obvious, but not bulging muscles, were visible underneath her shirt. Her hair was a dark brown, and shaggy.

Aphrodite and her children all squealed; the gods and demigods mouths dropped open, and Zeus stared unbelievably at his wife, "You look like that?!"

Hera shrugged and morphed back into her regular form, "Yeah. So?"

Zeus immediately dropped his eyes to the ground, "Nothing."

Everyone rolled their eyes at the king of the gods.

One, however, was thinking. 'Looks like Victor. Now I know where he got his attributes from.'

Hazel cleared her throat and continued to read.

Walking to the passenger's side, I opened the door and picked Susan up out of the car. Lysander grabbed the bag and hung it around his neck, before obediently following me into the hospital. On the way in, Sue leaned into my neck as another contraction hit her, and let out a muffled sound of pain. I marched into the emergency room, and went straight up to the front desk, "Aaron Holt. We talked a few days ago on the phone."

Hera smiled sheepishly as everyone turned to her, "It will explain in a few sentences. Calm down."

Zeus raised a eyebrow angrily, "Aaron Holt?!"

"Yeah? So?"

Zeus just turned and fumed in his throne.

The nurse gasped and nodded; pointing down the hall, "Of course sir. Your hospital room is straight down that hall, take a right at the third hallway, and it's the fourth door on your left."

I gave my thanks before carrying Susan down the hallway to the room. Once inside, I helped her get into a hospital bed, and change into the gown that the staff had provided.

Susan blinked the sleepiness out of her eyes, "You called ahead?"

"Of course she did," Percy muttered. "She always has a plan."

His comment was practically oozing with contempt, and despite previously wearing a mask of indifference; Hera started to visibly wince whenever anyone seemed to show anger towards her.

Others also began to notice the queens gradual change in character.

One clenched her fists, and bit down on her lip. Her eyes narrowed as she glared angrily at the son of Poseidon.

Susan grabbed Hera's hand in comfort.

"Yeah," I smirked a bit smugly. "I bought the hospital."

"You did?" Nyssa let out a long whistle, "Where you get the money? I can't believe a hospital comes cheap."

Hera smiled and shook her head, "No they do not. And when you're an immortal goddess; you save up quite the fortune."

"That's cool."

Sue shook her head at me, before her whole body stiffened. "Contraction."

I held her hand tightly in my own and kissed it lovingly, "It's okay. I'm right here."

Eventually, the pain passed and she let out a soft laugh, "Oh, I don't like childbirth."

I pressed a kiss to her forehead, "No one does my love."

Susan looked at me, before grinning, "You're very handsome as a man."

I smirked childishly and puffed out my chest, "I know."

"Someone sure is smug," Leo laughed.

Piper smirked, "Like you're any better, repair boy."

"Don't be jealous beauty queen."

Susan watched the two bicker with amusement; then leaned towards Hera, "Reminds me of the twins."

Hera eyes softened considerably, and she gently pressed a kiss to her girls' temple, "Do you miss them?"

Sue's eyes darkened, and she let out a small sigh, "I miss all of them. So, so much."

"Don't let it get to your head," Susan warned, wagging her finger at me. "I like how you naturally look better."

"The natural look is always more appealing to your true love!" A daughter of Venus gushed, causing everyone to roll their eyes.

Zeus growled, "True!? Love!?"

Hera smiled and pulled Susan closer, "I believe it."

I smiled, "Me too."

She laughed a bit, then lay back down on the bed. Her eyes closed and she promptly fell asleep. I sat in the chair next to her bed, and did my best to follow her example.

Ten minutes later, the doctor came in and gave an estimate of labor time. Nine to twelve hours to be exact.

All the goddesses gave approving looks at the estimate; Artemis cocked her head, "Nine to twelve hours isn't bad for your first child. Most women suffer for much longer."

Aphrodite scrunched her face, "Yep. Eros took 36 hours to come out. Twelve hours seems like heaven."

Hera scoffed, "Try Ares and Enyo! Ares alone took over 35 hours, and Enyo was an extra 14! It was horrible!"

Demeter, who had been Hera's mid-wife, nodded, "I remember that. It was a terror to witness. I'm just grateful Persephone only took six hours. All my births have been rather easy."

While the goddesses all complained about childbirth, the gods wisely stayed quiet. After all, most of them had fathered a good number of the goddesses children.

Which wasn't too bad compared to what I had to go through with Ares and Enyo.

"Tell me about it."

So, I hoped for a peaceful birth.

Oh, how wrong I was.

"Yes you were," Susan mumbled; looking over at where 'One' was sitting with the Hunters.

A few of the smarter individuals caught her look, and raised an eyebrow.

As the hours passed, Susan spent most of her time either braving through contractions or cursing my very existence.

"You cussed me out. More than once." Hera deadpanned.

Susan shrugged, "I was in pain, and it was your fault. What did you expect?"

"Oh, I don't know. Maybe 'Thank you for giving me the gift of motherhood Hera!' That would of been acceptable."

"Yeah, you wish I was that nice," Susan smirked.

Lucky for me, Aphrodite came to my rescue.

"That's something I never imagined myself saying."

"HEY!"

"Hello!"

Susan, who was making threats on my life,

"Pleasant."

stopped midsentence and smiled at the prancing love goddess as she walked into the room, "Aphrodite! What are you doing here?"

"Probably wants to be witness," Annabeth said; looking towards said individual.

"It seems likely," Athena nodded, agreeing with her daughter.

Aphrodite sat herself in one of the chairs and grabbed Sue's hand, "Well for support of course! I couldn't dare miss this! The first demigod born to the queen of Olympus in over five-hundred years! No way am I going to miss this historical event!"

"Wow," Octavian muttered, a cruel gleam in his eye. "She's right. Think of all the ways Rome could benefit from acquiring this half-blood. He would be a very powerful addition to the legion."

One snickered quietly and shook her head, as the greeks all glared at the auger. Katie spoke up, "The baby is greek! Not Roman! If anything the child would be a helpful addition to Camp Half-Blood!"

The gods watched nervously as the two groups of half-bloods glared at each other, although almost unbelievably, the romans eventually backed down.

An audible sigh of relief echoed across the amphitheater.

I felt sick as Aphrodite's words hit me. She was right. This was the first child born to me in a long time. Oh man, I was so out of practice; I could only hope I didn't screw up again. "You're right."

Susan beamed at me, "You're going to do great Hera. I know it."

Her confidence in me, caused a smile to appear. "I hope so."

Percy sighed and smiled at Susan, "You remind me of my mom. She always seemed to have the same effect on everyone."

All the demigods who had met Sally nodded excitedly, and Poseidon's eyes seemed to brighten at the mention of his former lover.

After about an hour of chatting, Susan gave in to her tiredness and fell back asleep.

"Labor is very exhausting," Nemesis grinned. "A perfect payment for the gift of life."

The demigods rolled their eyes, as the Nemesis children all voiced their agreement.

Aphrodite moved to where I was sitting and grabbed my hand. "You alright?"

"Wow," Artemis muttered. "Who knew Aphrodite could be considerate of others?"

Aphrodite glared, although the way Piper seemed to beam at her for checking how Hera felt, made it worth it.

I sighed and leaned back in my chair; my free hand ran through my hair once, before I let out a tired sigh, "Yeah. I'm fine."

Aphrodite raised an eyebrow elegantly; clearly she didn't believe me, "You sure? You seem nervous."

"Oh, I was very nervous." Hera groaned, "I may be the goddess of motherhood, but demigods are kind of a unknown factor for me."

Susan grinned and whispered in the queens' ear, "Don't worry. I know you did great!"

Hera smiled.

I groaned, "Is it that obvious?"

"Oh yeah," the love goddess smiled. "It's obvious."

"It must of been if Aphrodite noticed."

"You just shut your mouth."

I buried my face in my hands, "I just don't know what to do. I've never been this involved with a mortal before; even back when my other half-bloods were born. I don't know if I'm prepared for this."

Everyone stayed silent, as they watched Hera stare at the ground.

They could see how hard it was for her to let everyone read about some of her innermost thoughts.

Aphrodite waved a dismissive hand, "What are you talking about!? Of course you're prepared for this! The goddess of family and motherhood, and I believe that's parent material!"

"Yeah," A Vulcan demigod mumbled. "Nothing says 'parent material' like throwing your own son off a mountain."

Hera visibly flinched, and the responsible demigod smiled smugly, "That's what I thought, grandmother."

The audience watched unbelievably as the half-blood insulted the queen of the gods, and was left unharmed.

However, there was one person who refused to leave him be, "Who the hell do you think you are!?"

The voice caused everyone to turn and stare at 'One' as she stood up, and narrowed her eyes at the roman half-blood, "You don't know anything about Hera! Anything. So you better shut you idiotic mouth, before I shut it for you."

Complete silence was the only noise in the amphitheater, and the cause of it turned and addressed the other members of the audience. "And that goes for everyone! You may think you can get away with subtle insults, but not anymore. And if you try, I will not hesitate to put you in your place."

She looked at the Seven especially, "Trust me. I am the one half-blood you cannot beat."

With that said, she turned and sat back down with the Hunters; who regarded her with new respect.

I smiled for a moment, but my happiness faded in a flash, "And what about the ancient rules?"

"I hate those rules."

The love goddess stiffened for a moment, "You have told her, haven't you?"

"Told her what!?" I spat hatefully, "That I have to leave and dump a newborn on her!? Of course I haven't!"

Susan winced and Hera turned and kissed her, "Never again. I promise."

Zeus glowered, and Demeter decided to introduce her foot to his shin.

Her foot made quite the impression.

Aphrodite shifted uncomfortably, "So, she doesn't know then?"

"No I did not," Susan said, crossing her arms and pouting in her seat.

I crossed my arms stubbornly, and glared at the floor, "No and I'm not telling her."

"You really need to work on that."

"Yeah, I know."

"But Hera!" Aphrodite had a look of disbelief on her face, "You're just going to up and abandon her?! Without any warning at all!?"

Many gods flinched and stared at the floor, as they watched a few of the older and braver demigods establish a look of anger on their face.

They still believed the gods should take more responsibility for their actions, and be around for their kid's life.

Oh, it was hard to be a half-blood.

"NO!" I exclaimed, before wincing and checking to make sure my outburst had not woken Susan up,

Hestia smiled from her place at the hearth, "You certainly are considerate with her, sister. I'm impressed."

Hera grinned momentarily, before turning away from her eldest sibling.

Her thoughts were a bit preoccupied at the moment.

"I am not leaving her!"

Zeus rolled his eyes, and grumbled in his throne.

Aphrodite blinked, "W-what? You're not?"

"I have to admit, that did surprise me a little," Aphrodite said; fixing her makeup.

"I refuse to leave her like that! I refuse to just run off!" I whisper harshly; my glare boring holes into the ground, "I could never hurt her like that."

Thalia scowled and looked at the Olympians, "Well that makes one of you. What's your excuses?"

The addressed gods squirmed uncomfortably in their seats, thoroughly weirded out by her electric gaze.

A smile appeared on the love goddess's face, "Well, aren't you just full of surprises."

"I'll say."

I scoffed, "What did you expect? The goddess of family to abandon her own children?"

The Hephaestus cabin all paled in their seats, as One turned to stare sweetly at them.

"No, no." Aphrodite looked serious for once; a sad light shined in her eyes,

Piper sighed. She knew their was more to her mother than just love and good looks.

This book seemed to be, hopefully, proving her right.

"Still, the gods are becoming restless.

"Of course we were," Poseidon smirked and jabbed a thumb at Zeus. "You left us with that one."

"Be silent."

"Yeah whatever, little brother."

Zeus can barely keep order up there without you.

Nyx scoffed, "That's not surprising."

Zeus glared, but did not argue out of fear for his health.

Nyx could be scary when angered.

You're going to have to limit your time with Susan, and return to Olympus. Otherwise, the others may come looking; your infidelity may be discovered."

"Ugghhh," Hera groaned and fell back in her chair; throwing an arm over her face. "I appreciate the warning, but maybe waiting until after the baby was born would of been a better idea."

"I can't visit every day, you know." Aphrodite giggled, "I had dates and love to give to the world."

Artemis sighed, "If only you didn't do that. The world would of been a much better place."

"Just shut up."

"I know," I sighed. "Believe me, I know. Still, I'm staying for one more month; then I will return. Hopefully, I will still be able to visit her quite often."

Susan smirked and whispered something in Hera's ear.

Much to everyone's disappointment, no one was able to identify what she had said.

Although, the way Hera's face turned red, told some they didn't want to know.

Except, Aphrodite and her children of course.

Aphrodite smiled wistfully, "I wish I had your courage. I wish I could break the rules and see my children like you do. Alas, the consequences are harsh, and the fates are cruel to demigods. I fear for the horrors they may think up if I defy the rules."

All the gods with children nodded and sat up straighter in their seats. They wished that the half-bloods would understand that Zeus wasn't the only one to enforce the ancient rules, and that the Fates were a far crueler enemy than the king of the gods could ever be.

The Aphrodite cabin all smiled sadly at their mother.

They knew she did care for them, which was all that really mattered.

I sighed tiredly, "My fate was decided long ago. My children are watched by Chaos. The Fates cannot punish them for my mistakes, for Chaos is the one deity they cannot control.

"That's still amazing," Reyna murmured. "The creator of the universe. I didn't know she even had a real form. It's amazing and terrifying to think there is a being with that much power out there."

Yet, there is an enemy far worse than the Fates out there for my demigod children, and she is the only one they must fear."

A violent shiver went up everyone's spine, and Athena, who was piecing together all the clues, widened her eyes.

She truly is a horrible enemy.

Aphrodite shook her head, "I still cannot believe your patron is Chaos. That's amazing."

"We know."

I shrugged, "It's not that amazing. My patron is actually the biggest nerd you will ever meet."

"Really?" Annabeth asked; casually picking at her curls. "Chaos is nerdy?"

"Oh yeah. A total fangirl really."

Percy cocked his head and looked at his girlfriend, "I wonder if I have any fangirls?"

Annabeth laughed, "I wouldn't count on it seaweed brain."

"Seriously?"

I laughed lightly, "Seriously."

The love goddess seemed to mellow a bit and looked out the small window, "Do you ever think about them?"

"Think about who?" Jason asked, a look of confusion evident on his face.

"Think about who?"

Leo cracked up, "You think like your step-mother, super boy!"

Jason smirked, "Better than thinking like you."

"Your half-blood children," Aphrodite replied; nervously wringing her hands.

I looked down, "Yes. Every day."

"Me too. I think about them all the time," Aphrodite took a shuddering breath. "I hate the fact that I'm immortal, and they're not. I hate that they will pass one day, and there's absolutely nothing I can do to stop it. I hate the fact that as time passes, they might fade from my memory."

There was absolute silence, as the demigods took in this information.

Her confession startled me, causing me to stare wide-eyed at her.

Aphrodite smiled sadly, "You haven't had as many children as I have, so chances are you will remember each and every one of them. So promise me this; Cherish your children. Love your children. Remember you children. Do it for me, do it for all the gods who cling to the memories of our departed offspring in fear of the day they slip from our hands. Please."

Lacy blinked and looked at her mother, "Mom... You..."

Aphrodite smiled sadly at her greek and roman children.

The other gods all had their heads bowed.

A silence fell over us, and I gave my friend a sympathetic smile, "I promise."

Hestia glanced at her sister, "That was really nice of you Hera."

Hera sighed, and looked down, "I know."

The love goddess grinned and patted my arm, before standing up and stretching. "Well, I must be on my way now. I have a meeting with some fashion designers I cannot afford to miss."

I watched as Aphrodite went and stood by Susan's bedside; placing a hand on her forehead, and muttering a blessing. "Will you be back?"

The love goddess grinned, "I'll visit once the babe's been born. Plus, I've placed a blessing on the child and Susan for a safe delivery. I can't do to much since childbirth isn't really in my domain, but I can guarantee their assured safety."

"Thanks," I chuckled and held up a mangled hand. "Now do you have something that will keep Susan from breaking my hand?"

Susan blushed and looked at Hera, "Did I really break your hand?"

Hera laughed and rubbed her hand as if she could still sense the break in her bone. "Oh yeah. It was painful."

Athena cocked her head to the side, "It's interesting that you actually let her hurt you. Usually, the reaction wave is released in the event of an injury."

Katie widened her eyes, "What's a reaction wave?"

Ares grunted, "It's a shockwave that's released after a god is injured. It takes an immense amount of willpower to be able to cancel it out."

Percy smirked, "Like what happened when I fought you at the beach?"

"Watch it punk."

Aphrodite laughed and shook her head, then waved and stepped out of the hospital room. I looked sideways at Susan as she slept; significantly more peacefully though.

The hours once again dragged on.

"I hate waiting," Harley stated; bouncing in his seat as he worked on a small mechanical engine.

Leo grinned and high-fived his little brother, "Me too bro. Me too."

Piper shook her head at the two.

Lysander, for his part, spent his time wandering around the hospital; leading security on a wild-goose chase, and leaving doctors wondering how the hell a peacock got into the building.

Nico cracked a tiny almost nonexistent smile, "That is something I want to see. Sounds like the bird has some attitude."

"Yes he does," Percy laughed, and looked at Nico.

The son of hades avoided his gaze as rigorously as he could.

He was such a good boy.

Hera nodded, "That he is."

Then, after sixteen long hours of labor, the doctor announced that Susan was ready to push.

Susan groaned and hid her face in Hera's shoulder, "No, no, no. Don't remind me of that painful experience."

All the females gave her sympathetic looks.

She broke my hand. Twice.

The amphitheater was completely overtaken by waves of laughter.'

Hera sent a mock glare at the woman cuddled into her side.

I guess I deserved it for knocking her up and all that, but still. Twice. She was scary.

"That's a good way to describe her," One commented; leaning forward in her seat.

"HERA! I'M GOING TO KILL YOU! YOU'RE DEAD! DO YOU HEAR ME!? DEAD!"

Apollo whistled, "Damn! She's pissed."

Hera sighed and shook her head, "Don't I know it."

I flinched and offered her my left hand, as I heard the telltale snap in my right; effectively signaling that my right hand was once again broken, "I know. I'm dead."

"That sucks," Hermes shuddered. "Man that really sucks."

"I know. I lived it."

Susan gripped on to my hand, as the doctor told her to push once more. She screamed and gave me a look that said 'You're sleeping on the couch, and not getting laid until the next century.'

Hera smirked and kissed Susan's temple, "Yeah we know how well that worked out."

"HERA!"

"Well, it's true isn't it?"

"Shut up."

A few rogue tears trailed down her face as she whimpered, "It hurts. I don't think I can do this."

"But you did," Hera whispered in Susan's ear. "And I'm so proud of you Sue."

Susan smiled and kissed the queen of the gods.

I kissed her forehead, and whispered encouragement as the doctor spoke up, "Just one more push! One more push and the baby is out!"

Now more and more of the demigods were leaning forward in their seats; obviously anxious to hear about the new demigod about to be born.

The gods were honestly no better than their children at the moment.

Susan gasped and pushed once more; a small pain filled moan escaped her throat. Just as I thought my hand would break, Susan slumped back against the bed; a sigh of relief on her lips.

By now, they were basically bouncing in their seats.

Then, a shrill cry of a newborn echoed around the room.

Hera and Susan smiled, as the other demigods and (the immature gods) broke off into excited laughter.

Thalia gasped and fell back into her seat, "I can't believe it. A child of Hera. A child of Hera. This is insane."

Jason nodded, "I never thought I would see the day Hera ever stepped out on dad. Now there is proof."

Zeus grumbled in his throne; thunder and lightning raged across the sky.

My godly senses went haywire, as I recognized the new life.

The gods all smiled as they remembered a similar situation they once were in. Hecate grinned, "I remember when I had a son off a heiress in the 20's and I was able to sense his presence half-way across the world. It was a wonderful feeling."

The queen of the gods nodded, "That's so true."

The doctor tied off the umbilical cord, and handed the squirming baby to a nurse to clean.

Hebe squealed and hugged her sister Enyo, "Oooh! This is awesome! We have a new sibling! And it's actually not one of Dad's for once!"

Zeus let out a offended gasp, and his brothers all rolled their eyes at him.

Within a minute, the nurse returned with a crying, clean, and squirming baby in her arms. She handed me the newborn, and smiled, "Congratulations! It's a baby girl!"

The entire Aphrodite cabin broke out in squeals, "A daughter! How cute!"

Hera had the hugest smile anyone had ever seen present on her face, "She's my little pride and joy."

Ares and Hephaestus exchanged glances, as their sisters Hebe and Eilitheiya broke out into frenzied squeals and sandwiched Enyo between them, "A sister! We got a little sister!"

One smiled at the goddesses.

A huge smile appeared on my face as I gazed down at the crying child. She calmed a bit as I cradled her to my chest.

Aww's echoed across the area, as everyone grinned at the proud looking Hera.

Susan leaned into Hera's side once more.

Susan sat up in the bed and tiredly beckoned me over. Swiftly, I went to her side and handed our crying daughter to her mother.

Aphrodite smiled at the mortal woman, "Your daughter was such a sweetheart."

Susan sent the love goddess a appreciative look, "Thank you Aphrodite."

Tears appeared in Susan's eyes as she gazed at her child, "Look how beautiful she is. We have a daughter Hera. A beautiful baby girl!"

More Aww's appeared in the amphitheater.

I laughed joyfully, all my nervous energy was banished from my body. "I have a daughter! A gorgeous little baby girl."

Demeter smiled at her younger sister happily, "Someone's a proud mama."

"Of course I was," Hera replied. "I will always be proud of everyone of my children!"

Hephaestus looked up from the invention he was working on.

The babe actually seemed to smile up at us,

Mitchel grinned, "That's adorable."

as a nurse approached with some paperwork, "Excuse me, have you two picked out a name yet?"

Athena pursed her lips, "Names are important. I hoped you picked wisely, step-mother."

"Thanks for the confidence Athena," Hera deadpanned.

Susan and I exchanged looks, and then she smiled and nodded. I turned to the nurse after kissing my daughter on the forehead and grinned, "Rhea. Rhea Holt."

Hades raised his eyebrows in surprise; his voice had an octave of surprise, "You named her after mother?"

Hera nodded, "I'm always looking for ways to honor our mom. I thought it was fitting."

Poseidon let out a sniffle, "That's so sweet!"

"Oh, come on now. Don't cry you baby-"

A sudden clanging noise startled everyone, as they turned to look at the note slowing floating down near the Hunters. One grabbed it out of the air, and smirked as she read the contents, "Well then. It says I'm allowed to formally introduce myself now."

Hera smiled at the girl and nodded, "Then get on with it soldier."

One sighed and moved toward the center of the amphitheater so everyone was able to see her, "Okay, allow me to introduce myself! My name is Rhea Holt; Daughter of Hera, Pariah of Chaos, and defeater of the Python."

So, what did you guys think?

Remember to review and tell what your favorite part was! I promise I will update faster this time.

Have a good one!