Responses to my awesome reviewers-
Nutmeg Loves Books- Holy Hades! XD Thank you for all the pointers! That is a LOT of amazing ideas! Some might actually be incorporated {teehee}
shadoweater22 AKA Cassie - Correct! And thanks!
kaiseroflight- Awwwww that's so sweet! Thank you!
Solangelover- Exactly! That would've just made me look like I was making a feeble attempt at scraping a chapter together quickly!
ConnwaersonofThantos- I am OBSESSED with Fallout Boy, so I have nearly every song from them XD And I'm updating as frequently as I am because I really feel terrible for not updating in so long with Evil Minds!
Cheetah2613- I do too. That's why I created her. XD She reminds me of my little sister.
aero546- That's okay! And thanks!
ninja4166- Why thank you!
The search for Perseus Jackson ceased as there was a new purpose for all demigods, gods and nature creatures in the mortal world.
To prepare for war.
Order has made his presence known very well once he made a single attack on Olympus 600 years before. It destroyed nearly every temple and reduced the throne room to rubble. This was a sign, a sign that once Order came, that would be the end of civilization.
That is unless they found Percy Jackson. But all hope was lost in that manner, it seemed as if the boy had fallen off the face of the earth.
After Athena and a group of her most successful children rebuilt the Throne Room as quick as possible so that it may be used once more to discuss the attack.
It was something Order found quite enjoyable to watch. As the gods scrambled to put up weak defenses against a second attack. He almost wanted to just demolish them now, but... Not. Just. Yet.
Though he hated to admit it, the attack he initially enacted weakened him to the core. Most of his army was demolished or injured gravely and he himself was weak from all the power he used. So he needed to multiply his strengths until they were impenetrable.
Before, he did have a few lingering doubts with attacking Earth. They had quite the protector... That Perseus boy was most certainly the biggest threat he's ever encountered. But like the amazing luck he seems to have, the greedy gods took Perseus's power for granted, using him like a toy soldier. They destroyed him even before Order could lift his finger!
Now that Perseus was gone from the face of the universe, not a single sign of his memorable glory returning, Order had everything he ever needed.
An army. The power of millions of past villains and monsters right beneath his thumb.
His universal powers. Only Chaos could ever compete against him. Yes of course, his second in command could also, but Chaos being the indecisive, goody-two-shoe brother, that spot would never be filled.
And last but not least, no potential threats. This would be the easiest thing he's ever done.
Percy POV- {About 600 years after disappearance}
"Percy! Put the crown on now!" Silena yells at me as I duck away from her. The other Counselors laugh as they watch Silena and I run around the outside training room, me trying to get away from Silena while she chases me with that crown. I have to go to yet another diplomatic meeting with Devonia, my least favorite planet. And whenever I go to a meeting, I have to wear that blasted crown.
Devonia is a fiery planet, literally, they are made of volcanoes and fiery rivers. That's where Aerin came from, no shock in that. But their leaders were so annoying. Always turning a topic into a big dramatic scene. And of course Chaos puts me in charge of representing Paraíso in every major meeting.
There's more than the accounted 8 planets in our universe. There's 12. You already know of Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. I've visited those planets at least 4 times in my lifetime.
Mercury {or its actual name Devonia} is the closet to the sun. Which means it's the hottest... And its population consists of a bunch of hotheads. They take pride in their fiery personalities, which can be annoying sometimes. But don't make an enemy of them, they are beasts on the battlefield, I should know since I've lead them into war a few times. Everyone in that planet has the power over fire, some are stronger, some are weaker. But it would still be scary to mess with one.
Venus {or Archaea for its actual name} is the quiet planet. There are some serious introverts in that place, it's creepy. Every time I go there, I feel as if my footsteps could be heard from Neptune! The Archaeans shun upon the idea of verbal communication, but rather use sign language. Talking (verbally) is illegal so when I first went to Archaea, I accidentally started talking to the High Ruler, which resulted in me getting shot over a hundred times with sleeping darts. Lights go dim pretty quickly under that stuff. But anyways, they are the ones that control sound. And when I say sound, I mean everything about it. They can make someone believe they are hearing a symphony while the person next to them hears claws dragging against a chalkboard.
One of the Counselors, Sean, is from Archaea. He was banished from Archaea after he accidentally shouted for someone to move during a battle. Chaos found it simply stunning that he was willing to break the millennia old rule just to save someone. Sean is still quiet, talks only when absolutely necessary. But when he does talk, everyone listens because hearing an Archaean talk is simply hypnotic.
Now onto the next planet. Skipping earth, next is Mars, or also known as Neogene. They are probably most like Earthen humans. The Neogenen's are a collective group of diverse personalities, but they are very prideful people. Insult their pride and that's the last word you'll ever say. It's almost impossible to get your way during a meeting, but there are a few ways to manage it. They have complete control over all emotions and the earth, they can make someone feel so sad the enemy will just off them self. It's quite scary. Don't even get me started on their earthly powers, some of them are just surreal. No one on our Counsel is from that planet, as they treat one another as equal and no one has stepped up or away from that to be different, it's odd.
Jupiter, or Permia, are probably the loudest bunch of people you'd ever meet. Party animals are what I like to call them. They are the party gods. Loud and exciting. Not that bad to be around except for the fact that they have a very short attention-span. Either the Devonian representative or I have to snap our fingers in front of their face to get their attention every 5 minutes. That's probably why they are wicked warriors since they jump from one enemy to the next in a matter of seconds. Permians have the power of super-sonic speed, which is the reason they're so hyperactive.
Saturn is a dead planet. Order literally sucked the life out of that place at the beginning of time, jealous that Chaos was loved most by everyone. The war between the brothers caused massive destruction, including Saturn to turn to a barren landscape.
Uranus, or for a more appropriate name that doesn't cause the giggles, Holocene. Holocene is probably the calmest of all the planets. Wise and intelligent people, they could all possible be good leaders in any nations. Though they have the power of intelligence, physically all of the Holocenen can turn invisible. Another Counselor, Sorcha, is from Holocene. She reminds me of someone I know, her light blonde hair regally spiraling down her back and her striking grey eyes always lost in thought. Though it's very rude of me, I try not to look at her much. She reminds me too much of Annabeth, my so-called love of my life. It's been so long, but I can't get over any of them yet. I can't just forget my life before this place, not yet.
Neptune, or commonly known as Triassia, is the water planet. They control the element of water and it seems as if they all live by the beach. Laid-back and chilled, it takes a lot to get them up. Triassians and Permians are always at it during meetings, since Permians really try to get some kind of excited energy from the Triassians. It gets annoying to watch after dealing with it for centuries.
Now the other planets are Paraíso {obviously}, Mesos, Ordovicia, and Ediacara.
Mesos is the dark planet, mainly made of goths. They are all very dark and mysterious except when they're with one another. It's odd to be in the same room as them sometimes, but I try not to show my discomfort. Naturally, they have power of the balance of light and dark, which can also lead to messing with someone's vision. Very scary.
Ordovicia is like a whirlwind constantly, winds constantly blowing all day and night. It's cold there, very very cold. I hate going there because everyone there acts like they're high all the time. "You have chill man!" Is the one phrase that will probably cause me to explode if I hear again. The Ordovicians have the power over both wind control and winter. Some can even create a hell of a blizzard!
And there's Ediacara... There's not much to say about them. They are very strict and unforgiving people, and no one is allowed out of line without heavy punishment. The Ediacarans have complete control over life and death, though they very rarely use it. And it takes heavy payment for them to even consider using their powers to bring back someone from the dead. I'm sadly one of the only few people they'll actually allow on their planet, which makes me very uncomfortable.
Paraíso is a mix of all of those planets, well most of them at least. Anyone who is in Chao's army resides here. Only the best of the best live here, it's quite exhilarating. So that means there isn't any real similarities on this planet, but that doesn't matter.
The Counsel consists the bravest, most honest, and greatest warriors found in this universe. We all have a certain power or connection to at least one of the planets. Aerin, Sean and Sorcha are attached to their home planets only. Sorcha being the 9th in command, Sean in 6th of command and Aerin in 2, behind me of course. The Earthens are spread apart as well. Zoë in 3rd command attaches to Neogene. Luke in fourth command attaches to Permia. Bianca takes 7th and an attachment to Mesos. Silena {8th} goes to Ordovicia and Beckendorf {5th} takes care for Triassia. And they each are extremely powerful in those domains, it's the ones they are experts in.
Now I'm sure you're wondering, what about me? Well lucky ole Percy here, like Chaos, obtains power from each of them. I hate having so much of it! It just constantly makes me feel as if I am in control of everyone here, when I'm not. It just makes me feel more and more scared that if I just lose my temper, I could demolish everything around me.
My thoughts go reeling as I feel something get shoved on top of my head. I try ducking, but the crown was already on my head.
"Haha! I win!" Silena sticks her tongue out at me before sprinting away. I roll my eyes and I decide not to follow.
"Yeah maybe this time you did! Wait until next time!" I call before turning on my heel and heading up to my room-
Only to run right into Zoë.
We both tumble backwards, but I manage to catch myself before I fall on my butt. And with the twist of my wrist, a puff of air supports Zoë before she hits the ground.
"I'm sorry." I say hurriedly once the former huntress stands firmly on her feet again. She sends me a quick glare before clearing her throat. The Counselors quickly quiet down and look at Zoë.
"Lord Chaos has requested our presence in the throne room." She says before heading back inside. I quickly take off my crown as I follow right behind Zoë and I can hear the light shuffle of feet as the others follow.
No one spoke as we walk, a request like this from Chaos usually meant that we were either needed in a battle or we were in trouble. And I really hope we're not in trouble. Teaching 5 year olds how to handle a dagger is never fun, never ever will it be.
Chaos sits on the edge of his throne as we all enter quickly. One by one we all go down to one knee as we respectively bow to him. He takes a moment before realizing that we were in front of him. Blinking, he looks at us and smiles nervously.
"Rise." He says softly and we do so, watching him carefully as he slowly gets up and begins to pace. I think my hopes have been right, but I'm not quite sure if I want to be right in this situation.
"Lord Chaos? Why have you requested our presence at this time?" Luke asks in concern.
No one says anything as we watch him pace a little longer. Finally, he faces all of us with a grave expression.
"I do have a new assignment. But it will require all of you to attend to." He starts, obviously trying to gain some confidence.
We all quickly exchange a glance. Chaos usually assigns one or two Counselors to one thing. But all 9? That's not common, at all.
Chaos sighs and begins to speak again, though he occasionally casts a sympathetic glance at me as he paces.
"You all know of my brother, Order." He continues. Nodding silently, the Counselors and I watch our leader struggle to talk.
"For the past 600 years, he has been rising an army. An army so strong... So strong that it may just be able to demolish what we have been trying to protect all our lives. And luckily, we have placed a spy in Order's army, she has told us where he plans on attacking first." He pauses, casting a glance at all of us who were Earthens.
"He plans on attacking Earth first, doesn't he?" I ask before anyone else has the chance to open their mouth. I don't take this topic lightly and I've always tried to veer away from dealing with the planet whenever I can. Too many memories from that place, just too many.
But now, as Chaos nods his head, I know I can't prevent this anymore. I have to go back now, I have to protect all of those who have betrayed me.
"When will we be leaving?" Aerin asks, not paying attention to everyone else, who were all looking over at me in pity. At least the others did have much of a betrayal, but I will never hold that against them.
"In one hour. So I suggest you prepare." Chaos says, which was a polite way of saying 'get out'. We all take the hint, walking out, me being the first one out and down the hall.
Thalia's POV-
It's been 600 years. 600 fucking years and no sign of an attack. It's driving everyone crazy just waiting for blood to be shed! Apollo keeps swearing and declaring that there will be an attack soon. But when? No one knows.
The gods decided to make all the veterans of the Giant War and Titan War immortal so that they may train new demigods to be ready for this war.
And the gods have become more involved with our lives. Zeus finally let that ancient law dissipate. So that helps a ton, but I still don't think we are ready.
But then again, when would we ever be ready for a war? Lives are going to be lost and hopes crushed. It's not like angels are going to fall from above and save us.
The hunters were asked to pit stop at Camp Half-Blood for a little while, just for extra protection. It's nice to be able to be in my old home, even if I've been a tree for most of my residence here.
It was a nice day today, but that could just be because of the magical barrier around the camp. But nothing like the present!
As an old tradition, the hunters are going against the campers in the classic Capture The Flag. I still don't get why we do it, the hunters are always going to win.
But it's nice to momentarily forget about all the worries of a war, to just play a fun game as such. Even if I am bored out of my mind right now.
Guarding the flag means just waiting around, listening to the faint cries of pain or cheers of success. Even as Lieutenant I can't even have a say in where I am! It's always Lady Artemis who chooses who goes where. And she has complete faith that I can guard the flag with no one else. Oh joy.
Zeus's Fist is the perfect place to hide a flag, cause you can only see it from one angle. So our glistening silver flag now lays in the rocks.
Perched in a tree right by the rocks, I listen intently for anyone. But naturally, there isn't anyone near. My fellow sisters are taking good care in maiming every camper they can find.
"Can someone please just blow the horn already?" I mumble to myself as I look around for the millionth time. There is nothing here! Absolutely nothi-
The snapping a twig catches my attention. Finally! A target! I draw back my bow string with a blunt arrow notched on the string. "Come and get it." I whisper barely, grinning greatly.
"Thou should not shoot, Grace." A familiar voice says beneath me. No, no it can't be her. I shake my head to clear my thoughts, I must be going crazy.
"What will stop me?" I ask before releasing the arrow, knowing not even a hunter could stop the arrow at this speed.
The arrow suddenly freezes in air, trembling slightly for some reason. "I believe thy friends would be able to stop thee." The voice continues casually.
I jump down from the tree, careful not to be near the floating arrow. I notch another arrow onto my string, this one as sharp as a razor.
"Show yourself." I demand to the dark foliage in front of me. 9 figures gracefully walk out from the forest. They all have cloaks on that hide their face.
One from the middle walks forward, and with the flick of their wrist, their hood falls. My heart stops as I look at my friend, who I thought perished under her father's behalf. Zoë Nightshade.
"Seems you haven't changed one bit, Thalia Grace." She smiles a little. I stare at her in shock, gaping like a fish.
"Take us to your leader." Someone beside Zoë says in a fake robotic voice. It's male, and very familiar as well.
The figure beside the speaker elbows him in the stomach. "Not the appropriate time for games, you nit wit." The figure says.
"Geez Silena, I was just playing." He grumbles like a little kid. My eyes widen even more once I realize who that is.
"L-Luke?" I stutter. In any other scenario, this would have been hilarious to observe. But, but these people are suppose to be dead.
Luke pulls down his hood and smiles at me sadly. I stare at him in utter shock.
"I am so sorry, Thals. I-" Whatever he was going to say never came as I hug him tightly. Tears begin to stream down my face as I cling onto him. I miss him so much, and he just appears like this! He hugs back lightly.
Pulling away from the hug eventually, I look up at him. But without thinking, I slap him hard across the face, shocking him with electricity also.
"If you ever pull that stunt again, or anything like that. I will kill you myself. Are we clear?" I ask in a faint whisper, barely containing my anger. He nods quickly, not wanting to get hit again. The other figures around were laughing hysterically... Most of them at least. Two of them stand to the side, not saying a single word or even making some kind of indication they were not stone.
Ignoring the oddness of that, I smile at Luke and Zoë. "You two have a lot of explaining to do." I say before looking at the others.
"Though I would love to get to reunite with any of my other friends. We need to get to Chiron. And..." One of the silent figures whispers to the other. The other one steps forward and takes his hood down before tapping Zoë's shoulder. He started communicating to her in sign language. I slowly trail off as I watch. I've never seen that boy before, and I don't even think he's from this planet.
He has silver hair, as if someone spun strands of pure silver to make his hair. And his eyes, they were bright lavender, which shocked me to the core. Not even an Aphrodite child could ever have eyes that shade. Very tall and lean, as if he's accustomed to sneaking around with expert spy like talents. Not something I've ever seen before...
"Sean is right." Zoë says, snapping me out of my thoughts. "We must go to the throne room immediately. Thalia, do thy mind leading the way?" She asks. Gods, not even her vocabulary has changed.
I nod and start walking towards camp. Most of the figures follow... Except one. It was the other silent figure, the one who whispered to Sean. He stands in front of the Hunter's flag, his head tilts to the side curiously.
"Come on, Ace! We haven't got all day!" Luke calls to the silent figure, Ace. It takes a moment before Ace finally turns away from the flag and follows us.
I try not to think about why he was staring at the Hunter's flag. Males, I think to myself, always doing strange things without an explanation.
I totally forgot the game was still going on, so the group and I run into Valerie. She's currently fighting against a demigod, someone from the other team. It's obvious that it's a daughter of Aphrodite, since she moves with grace and shouts lilting commands at Valerie. Her long curly blonde hair is tied into a tight but yet stylish ponytail, I doubt she even tried to make it like that. She's tall for a teen, but it made sense since she's one of the campers who were made immortal, of course once she reached an age she felt appropriate to stay as, rather than being an immortal 5 year old.
Mae manages to trick Valerie before tripping and tackling the hunter to the ground. She's grinning victoriously as Valerie growls at the immortal teen.
I smirk and turn to my friends... And the other dark figures. "You guys stay here for a moment, I need to go embarrass my friend." I say before quickly going over to the two girls.
Third Person POV-
Once the daughter of Zeus left the Counselors, Percy, or Ace, turns to the other Counselors. His expression remains blank, any normal person wouldn't have thought there was something up. But those of the Counsel who knew Percy the longest could see the flickers of pain and fear playing in his sea-green eyes.
"We need to go to Olympus now. There's no time to play around." Percy says quietly to them. The Counselors nod in agreement.
"Someone should tell Thalia that we are leaving." Silena whispers. Everyone turns to Luke with a begging expression. He's probably the only one beside Percy who can not be shocked to the core if they interrupt her... If she's at least in a good mood.
He sighs and nods. "I'll meet you guys up at the throne room." He says before following where Thalia just disappeared.
Percy quickly creates a Portal and the throne room can be seen through the doorway. Percy gestures for everyone to walk through. One by one, the Counselors walk through. Bianca is last, but she stops for a moment, facing Percy.
"You know you're going to have to drop the charade soon, right?" She asks him quietly. The son of Poseidon nods and smiles a little at Bianca.
"I'll be fine. I just need some time, that's all." He says simply. Bianca sighs and nods before gently tugging Percy's hood forward a little more.
"Then make sure to keep that hood up at all times. I was starting to see your eyes." She says and Percy laughs lightly.
"Yes ma'am." He says before Bianca smiles and walks through the portal.
Once the daughter of Hades walks through the portal, he takes a moment to peek through the trees. Mae was talking and laughing with Thalia and Valerie. Percy couldn't help but smile as he remembers the little girl he saved. From here, he could see that she still wears his old CHB bead necklace. She really does stick to her word.
Before the Counselors could get suspicious, Percy quickly walks through the portal, arriving at Mount Olympus. He arrives in the throne room and is shocked to see the condition it's in. Some of the pillars were cracked and crumbled. The ground has holes that were in serious need to be patched up.
The Counselors were all in the center of the throne room, waiting patiently for Percy. He sighs quietly, still not used to all the attention. "Let's call the gods-"
Just as Percy finishes speaking, Zeus appears on his throne. He looks down at the Counselors, a bewildered expression gracing his face.
But before the king of the gods could speak, Aerin steps forward. Her black eyes bore into Zeus's in a menacing matter. "We are here from the Counsel of Chaos. His brother, Order, has already attacked this planet, hasn't he?" Aerin asks in mock sympathy. Zeus, still in shock from the amount of power pulsing from this small group, nods numbly.
"May I suggest we call for a meeting, Lord Zeus? We will explain everything." Bianca cuts in softly before Aerin could blow the faint welcome they were starting to slowly obtain. The normally prideful god just nods before shooting a lightning bolt into the sky.
Aerin steps back into the line of Counselors just as the gods begin to appear. Most appear with a basic flash of color, but the Big Three like Hades appears from the shadows and Poseidon arrives in fine sea mist.
But Poseidon... He looks as if he aged a century. His usually vibrant sea-green eyes were hollow and nearly clear. There's gray streaks in his midnight black hair and his posture was broken and slumped. The Olympians all look at the sea god with sad eyes. Ever since Percy disappeared, Poseidon blamed himself for never being more involved with Percy's life or making sure his son was alright.
Percy glances away from his father so that he wouldn't run up to his father and hug him. It's almost unbearable to just see him like this. It brings tears to Percy's eyes, but he blinks them away hastily.
The Counselors already have their hoods up once more, so the gods could not see their faces just yet. The Olympians all glance at the Counselors wearily, too tired to even comprehend why these powerful beings are here... Except Athena, who was bursting with questions.
"I proclaim that the camps and other groups should also be here." Bianca suggests. The gods nod in agreement and so do the Counselors.
Zeus nods and snaps his fingers. Reyna, Frank and the rest of Camp Jupiter appear first. Then Chiron and Camp Half-Blood's head counselors. Then finally the Hunters, Amazons and nature creatures arrive. Percy couldn't help but pinpoint all of his old friends, who were all made immortal 600 years before.
"Welcome back." Zeus says to everyone. But they pay him no attention as they analyze the Counselors.
Before any questions could be asked, Zeus continues. "We are all well aware of the threat of war. And our enemy's brother, Lord Chaos, has allowed his most powerful and respected warriors to aid us when this war comes. Now," He faces the Counselors again. "I believe you owe us an explanation. Athena will fade if you don't do so." He adds.
Since Percy asked to not reveal himself automatically when they were still at Paradíso, Aerin steps forward since her hood was already down. "Calm down, we'll explain. No need to get your knickers in a twist." She says to Zeus.
Zeus turns bright red. "How dare you-"
"How dare I?" Aerin cuts him off with a short laugh. "You need to learn some manners before you even try talking to me like that." She snaps.
"Now," Aerin says before Zeus can yell. Small chuckles can be heard around the room. "I'm pretty sure you all know the original 8 planets? Well there are actually 12." She smirks at the sight of the shocked expressions.
After a brief explanation of all 12 planets and what their actual existence is, Aerin explains what the Counselors do. Everyone looks at the group in awe and respect. Zeus, realizing how much more powerful they are, slinks back in his throne.
"And now, I'm sure you would all love," Aerin says with a hint of sarcasm. "To meet our Counselors. It's been agreed we will start with out ninth in command and end with our second in command." She says before stepping back.
Sorcha steps forward, smiling just as always. Her grey eyes come into focus as she begins to speak. "Hello, my name is Sorcha and as for my last name, much too arduous to speak of." She says simply. "I am from the Holocenen civilization and that is the planet I am the representative of. I am in 10th of command behind Lord Chaos, but only ninth in command behind our beloved Prince." She smiles and curtsies to the gods before stepping back. Athena stares at her in wonder and awe, someone she would have loved to talked to anytime.
Silena smiles and steps forward, her hood still up. "Now I believe I should begin with telling my story, the short version of course." She laughs lightly, her tinkling laugh bringing smiles to most. "My home was here, and it was a very lovely one. I had the boy of my dreams, the greatest friends that I could ever ask for and a family that was most certainly unique, but just what I always wanted. I was blackmailed into going against my loved ones, and I could never let them be hurt if I could have prevented it! So, against my will, I spied against those I loved and gave the information to the enemy. Just before my death, I confessed it all and Chaos brought me into his Counsel just because of my willingness to do what's right." She says before gently removing her good. Aphrodite gives a small cry of realization as she sees her daughter. "My name is Silena Beaurgard and I am in 9th of command behind Lord Chaos but only eighth in command behind our charming Prince." She flashes a smile before Aphrodite squeals quite loudly and hugs her beloved daughter. Silena starts crying just when Aphrodite starts crying and they whisper how much they love one another before Hephaestus eventually has to pull away the sobbing goddess back to her throne.
Silena steps back, wiping away her tears just as Bianca steps forward. She nervously wrings her hands together before beginning. "My story is shorter, but just as bitter as my friend Silena's. My brother and I were saved by the Hunters of Artemis and Perseus Jackson." All the gods and campers flinch ever so slightly at the mention of the boy's name. "Instead of going straight to camp with my brother, I decided to be a Hunter of Artemis, a chance to be free from all responsibilities of being an older sister. Little did I know that I wouldn't last more than a month after taking the oath. I would die trying to receive an action figure for my brother." Bianca slowly removes her good and Hades sucks in a sharp breath. "My name is Bianca Di Angelo. I am eighth in command behind Lord Chaos, but only seventh in command behind our brave Prince. I am the sole representative for Mesos." She says before Hades stands up from his throne.
"My dear child, is it really you?" He asks softly. Bianca nods and Hades quickly hugs her just as any father would have. They stay like that, silent but undeniably happy to see one another. Hades is the one to pull away and offer a small sincere smile to Bianca before he returns to his throne.
Bianca steps back into line just as Sean steps forward. He doesn't meet any of the gods eyes as he raises his hands to begin his part. "I do not speak, but rather use my hands for communication. As you can tell, I am from Arcaea, and I am their representative despite my banishment. I accidentally spoke during combat to warn my friend. I am never allowed to see my family, nor set foot on my home, because I saved a life. I will not bore you with my humiliating sob story. My name is Sean Bolaji and I am in seventh in command behind Lord Chaos but only sixth I'm command behind our beloved Prince." He finishes before removing his hood since everyone's doing it and stepping back. The gods look at Sean with pity and sadness, Ares seems especially angered by this, to be punished for being an honorable warrior? Unacceptable.
Beckendorf slowly walks up from the line, very uncomfortable with the amount of attention he's receiving. "I'm not very good with words like my fellow Counselors are. But I died before the Titan War, trying to prevent it and save my friends. My name is Charles Beckendorf and I am in sixth in command behind Lord Chaos and only fifth in command behind our Prince. I control Triassa as their representative." He removes his hood and looks up at the gods, who were all grinning, especially Hephaestus, who grins the greatest.
"I am so proud of you, my boy." The forge god says gruffly. But everyone knows that was said with all the love in the world, even if he was married to a love goddess. Beckendorf smiles and nods respectively to his father before stepping into line again, taking Silena's hand.
Luke steps forward. He takes a moment to himself before continuing. "My home was here, and... And I did not treat it as a home. I betrayed all of those I love, I started a war that could have been prevented and because of that, many lives were lost." He says, not a quiver in his voice. Percy and Luke would always talk, and Percy eventually convinced Luke that he was a hero even after all he did.
"I never did know why Lord Chaos gave me the position on his Counsel, but I finally found the reasoning thanks to a very good friend of mine." He finishes before removing his hood. Hermes falls out of his throne in shock. "My name is Luke Castellan and I am fifth in command behind Lord Chaos, but only fourth behind our Prince. I control Permia as their representative." He manages to finish before Hermes hugs his son tightly. There was a silent moment as the Counselors and gods watch the son and father reunite. Luke pulls away from the hug, smiling sincerely at his father, who smiles back before returning to his throne.
Luke steps back as Zoë steps forward, a giant smile on her face. "I was well known on my home planet, but my fate was anything but deserving. I perished at my own father's hand." She starts strongly, ignoring the curious glances coming from the gods. Reaching up and removing her hood, gasps sound from all around the throne room. "My name is Zoë Nightshade and I am fourth in command behind Lord Chaos, but only third in command behind our beloved Prince. I control Neogene as their representative." She says, refraining from speaking her usual ways in an attempt to sound modern.
Artemis gets up from her throne and quickly crosse the room, enveloping the former huntress into a tight hug. Silvery tears fall down her face as the two reunite. Zoë also has a few tears in her eyes, but they don't shed. Zoë clears her throat quietly and Artemis breaks the hug. The moon goddess still has a look of disbelief on her face. Finally, Zoë gestures for Artemis to sit, in which she does reluctantly.
Zoë reluctantly steps back just as Aerin steps forward, her hood already down. "I've made myself well known by now. But I'm Aerin, just Aerin." She adds firmly. "I come from the planet Devonia. I am third in command behind Lord Chaos, but only second in command behind our Prince. I control Devonia as a representative. " She says, stepping back just as Zoë steps forward, her hood still up.
The gods all look at the final Counselor, who makes no indication that he's going to introduce himself. Under the hood, Percy watches as all of the gods look at him. If only they knew. He thinks to himself.
"Well? Who are you?" Artemis asks, finally breaking the silence.
"Lady Artemis," Zoë starts. "And all of the Olympians. Our beloved Prince wishes to take silence for some time. Due to a bounty on his head, he needs to make sure that there are no potential enemies on this planet. His name is Ace, and that's all that will be established for the sake of our safety." She says.
"So your prince is a convict?" Annabeth asks, looking at Percy strangely. Percy refrains from flinching by just hearing her words. She seems to have not changed at all as she stands beside James, holding his hand.
"He is not a convict." Silena snaps, which causes all the gods to stare at her in shock. Releasing Beckendorf's hand, she steps forward. "This man has saved all of our lives countless times, even if it was risking his own, he would do it. He has the bounty on him because he's made himself known to universal enemies. Do not call him lowly names, or I will tell Lord Chaos myself that this planet is not worth saving."
"Now I know being diplomatic hasn't always been your strength, Silena, but is that anyway to treat your family?" A familiar voice asks jokingly from the back of the room. The Counselors start laughing as they see Silena turn bright red. The gods, campers and others look towards the back of the room curiously.
Chaos steps forward, a casual smile on his face. All the Counselors, once they calm down from laughing, get down to one knee and bows their heads. Everyone else immediately copies them.
"Rise please." Chaos says and everyone complies. He smiles once more and steps in front of the gods.
"Now I am sure you know my Counselors. They are to be trusted with the utmost respect because they have more certainly earned it." He says and most of the gods nod in understanding.
"Now as for how they can help. I believe it would be best to station at least one in every group. Olympus, Camp Half-Blood, Camp Jupiter, the Amazons, and with the Hunters. Does anyone have a better idea?" He asks, looking around. Athena shakes her head, already agreeing with Chaos.
He smiles and nods. "Okay. Now, may I have a word with my Counselors so that I may decide who goes where?" He asks.
"Of course, Lord Chaos." Hera says and Chaos smiles.
"Good. Now, if you'll excuse us." He says, gesturing for the Counselors to exit the throne room. They do so and he follows behind them.
Percy POV-
Now that was scary. I was sure I would have taken down my hood, shouting "I am alive!" Or something like that. But thankfully I didn't, which I give myself some praise for.
The Counselors and I exit the throne room with Chaos right behind us. I'm just about ready to collapse, I need to just break away from all of this. It's killing me to just be in the same room as my old friends stare at me like I'm an alien.
"Now, I believe I already know where I will be placing all of you." Chaos begins. We all nod in understanding.
"For Camp Half-Blood, I will be assigning Beckendorf and Silena." He says and I relax just a tad. I know he did that on purpose, because I wouldn't last a day in camp without breaking down. Silena squeals happily and kisses Beckendorf's cheek.
"For Olympus, Luke and Sean will be stationed there." Luke and Sean exchange a glance and nod.
"Sorcha and Bianca will be assigned to the Amazons." Chaos continues. The two girls high five one another, l smile at them. But then it comes to me as I realize what the final position is.
"Aerin and Zoë will go to Camp Jupiter." Aerin and Zoë just nod. Aerin's expression didn't change the slightest but Zoë continues to smile.
"So that means Percy will be assigned with the Hunters." He finishes. I can literally feel my stomach drop at those words.
"And Perseus, before you ask, they are the most vulnerable group and they're going to need the most protection. Understand?" He asks and I nod. Disagreeing with Chaos is a big no-no, I don't have to see it to believe it because I've seen Chaos when he's angry. He almost blew up Saturn by accident.
"Come now, before they get suspicious." Chaos says, ushering us all back inside. I sigh quietly as I walk back in. No one speaks as we renter the throne room, creepy.
"So I'm presuming you have made your decision." Zeus finally says and Chaos nods.
"Indeed I have." He nods. "Luke and Sean will remain here on Olympus." Hermes grins greatly at this, he'll finally be able to bond with his son. I'm happy for Luke, everything's starting to go right for him. He deserves it.
"Silena and Beckendorf will be going to Camp Half-Blood." Chaos continues. Some of the head Counselors cheer happily, they'll get to see their old friends again.
"Aerin and Zoë will be with Camp Jupiter." The Romans smile and wave hi to their new protectors. Though I'm sure the Corhorts believe they don't need extra protection.
"Sorcha and Bianca will be accompanying the Amazons." The group of women all nod respectively to the two Counselors, who beam happily. I have no doubts that Bianca and Sorcha will have a lot of fun with the Amazons.
"And finally, Ace will travel with the Hunters." Chaos finishes. The hunters all look at me with hate in their eyes. I keep my chin tilted high, but I look away from them.
"With all due respect, Lord Chaos, wouldn't it be more reasonable to have a female Counselor travel with the hunters due to their tradition?" Athena asks, extremely curious.
"Like I told Ace previously. The Hunters are the most vulnerable group out of them all. Ace is our strongest warrior, so it's best if he is with them." Chaos says. Athena nods and so do the other Olympians... Except Artemis.
Before she can say anything, Zeus stands from his throne. "Well, it's settled then. We shall continue our preparations for war with the new help from Lord Chaos and his Counsel." He says. "Good luck." He disappears in a giant lightning bolt and I stop myself from rolling my eyes. He always has to have a dramatic flair.
The gods and goddesses begin to flash away. Hermes and Luke are in a deep conversation, their expressions serious. I can't help but smile at them, it's good that they are settling things once and for all. Hades gives Bianca one last hug before disappearing in the shadows.
I can't help but look at Poseidon once more, he remains on his throne, looking down at his hands. He looks so broken... So alone. I take one step in his direction, wanting to help him feel better. But someone else takes the chance before I can.
Hestia places her hand on Poseidon's shoulder and whispers something that I can't hear. He nods to whatever she said.
"I miss him." He whispers, but I manage to pick it up. Ignoring all of the side chatter, I discreetly take a step closer to them so I can hear.
"I miss him too. But you need to have faith that he's alright." Hestia whispers back. Poseidon nods again as he looks up at his sister.
"But it's been 6 centuries, Hestia. How can I not think of the possibility that he is dead? That my dearest child is never coming back?" He asks quietly.
Hestia sighs softly, but smiles warmly at him. "I don't think he's gone, Poseidon. I think he's managed to pull off the impossible, like he's always done. Like the great hero he is." She says encouragingly.
Poseidon smiles faintly. "He's always managed to do what no other has done." He agrees quietly.
"Just have faith, my brother. And if you ever feel lost, just come to the Hearth and we can talk again." She promises before walking to the Hearth. But before she disappears in the flames, she turns and looks at me for just a moment. A knowing smile crosses her expression before she walks into the flames.
She knows it's me. But how? I've made sure that my face is hidden and I don't make any indication it's me. How can she know?
Someone places their hand on my shoulder, snapping me out of my thoughts. I turn and I see that it's Zoë.
"Take good care of Lady Artemis. She deserves as must respect as possible. Understand?" She asks me sternly.
I nod and she smiles a little. "But if thy sisters become a pain towards thee. Tell me and thy will set them straight." She chuckles a little and I smile as I nod once more.
She pats my shoulder before joining Camp Jupiter and Aerin as Chaos creates a portal for them to walk through. The same is done for the Amazons and Camp Half-Blood. But Artemis stops Chaos from making one for the Hunters.
"It's alright, Lord Chaos. I can transport my girls and I to our camp." She says and Chaos nods.
"Alright. I'll leave you to it then. Ace, don't fail me." He says to me before disappearing in a flash of black. Artemis looks towards me and scowls.
"I guess I have to transport you as well. Come now." She orders and I oblige without hesitation. From previous experience with her, I know she has zero tolerance for disobedience.
I stand to the side as Artemis closes her eyes. A silver glow surrounds us all and the next thing I know, we're in a forest.
Though it doesn't compare to the beautiful forests in Paradíso, it comes fairly close. The tall redwood trees stretching miles above us with lush canopies of dark green leaves. Night has already fallen at some point, so only the stars and moonlight from above light the camp. Silver tents were pitched up all around us, glittering and gleaming at every angle from the reflection of the silvery light.
But a thought comes to me. Weren't the hunters just at Camp Half-Blood? Maybe Artemis chose to leave since they now have two Counselors watching over the camp. It makes sense, I think.
"Alright. Girls time for bed." Artemis announces. A chorus of "yes Lady Artemis" sounds before the hunters all go to their designated tents. Once all the hunters disappear in their tents, Artemis turns to me.
"I do not care if you are a prince. I do not care if there is a bounty for your head. If you are to be a part of this group, you are going to pitch in just as each and everyone of the members do. Are we clear?" She asks, not a single emotion could be picked out from her tone, only ice.
I nod understandingly and she nods as well. "Pitch your own tent and get some rest, for tomorrow you start to earn your keep, boy." She snaps before walking to her tent.
This is going to be fun.
Boom! End of this chapter! XD I can't believe I wrote so much! Holy hades! XD I just kept writing and writing!
Well this has taken me all week, because of school and the sudden attack of the flu {yuck XD} but it's Spring Break now! Woo hoo!... And it's snowing..., oh the irony in that!XD But I will update as soon as possible! Bye for now!