Let's hop right in. I think you'll like this one, I had fun writing it the entire time.

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters ( except the OC's) Percy Jackson & The Olympians, Heroes Of Olympus, or Trials Of Apollo. All of that belongs to Rick Riordan.

On with the seventh chapter.

7. We Get Fired

Percy

Can't say I ever expected this to happen. All my friends at camp, chasing after me with swords.

Technically they were chasing Levi, but seeing as I technically defended him, and I'm running away from the angry mob with said son of Nemesis...it's safe to say they don't like me too much right now.

Defended him.

I wouldn't say I did that. When push came to shove it was Matt and sort of Aiden trying to calm everybody down. I fully expected Harper to pull that whole fight to the death thing. That's just her style. I've seen it before, this same attitude and outlook, in the face of my friend Thalia before she joined the hunt. It's a shame the two had never talked, they would probably be best friends.

But changing her mind at the last minute over a red leaf. That I didn't expect.

Sure, that leaf probably has some kind of significance, but I'm a little surprised. From what I've heard, Levi not only killed their father, but tried to kill Harper multiple times. And judging from the way she's always talked about getting revenge, I figured she'd take the shot, no exception.

But then again, that's her brother. It makes sense that no matter what, she'd have hope in getting that old relationship back. If Tyson were to get on the wrong path, ruin our relationship, but then try to mend things after a couple of years...i can't be hypocritical, I'd try to fix things with him.

All of this ran through my head, as I literally ran across camp.

Talon looked back at them, "Damn, they're really pissed!"

I took a gander myself, and saw a pretty terrifying sight. The friendly faces I'd always known were now demons, running full speed at us with weapons raised in the air, roaring and chanting death. Their combined charge sounded nothing short of a rhino stampede.

Good thing we were faster. But where the heck were we going to go?

"Uh guys, what's the plan?" I said.

"We can't exactly stop and make one!" Annabeth retorted. "Harper, I hate to sound judgemental. But I hope you know what you've just done!"

"Thanks!" Harper said sarcastically, "Wouldn't want to sound judgemental!"

I had no idea where we were going with this, but it seemed we were in it together. If we were going to keep running around camp all day, that probably wouldn't work in our favor. I'm not sure about keeping Levi in...action, but if that's the consensus, then we need to get him out of here.

Matt's eyes flickered with thought in front of me, and I could see the invisible gears turning.

"What?!" I asked him. He glanced behind him and back at me.

"Stop running. Everyone stop running, trust me!"

His voice was loud, and we were kind of like chickens with their heads cut off, so we were ready for any suggestions, no matter how crazy it sounded. We all skidded to a stop on the ground, turning a one eighty towards the rampaging crowd.

Matt stepped in front of all of us and undid his necklace. A black string with a small bronze lion's head on the end. I knew what was coming next, he was about to draw that weird looking club of his, Viribus.

The lion's head disappeared in his palm and reappeared as a three-foot club.

"Uh, what are you gonna do with that?" I asked nervously, not sure if he was about to attack the campers. It was unlike him, but at this point, I don't know what he's thinking.

Instead, he brought Viribus over his head in an arc, from one side to another, like he was trying to paint the sky. The ground rumbled beneath us, and dirt started to act on its own. It seeped up and piled on top of its own piles, quickly, until it built up so much, it rose over our heads. Finally, we were concealed within a rocky, earthy dome.

It only took about two seconds for the entire thing to shake with impact. The campers had ran right into it. Several clangs could be heard on the outside as they tried to bust through, but surprisingly, their voices were mostly muffled. I could make out a few death threats to Levi though.

We all breathed heavily and stayed silent for a moment.

That is until I broke it, "Well, this is quite the evening, huh?"

"How did you just do that?" Levi asked Matt.

Matt gestured to Viribus, "Gaea's energy is imbedded in this thing. Allows me to control and manipulate rocks, soil, stuff like that." He gave a once over to the dome, and winced at the constant clanging of swords outside. "But it won't hold up for too long. We need to make a plan, fast. What are we going to do, guys?"

Talon scoffed, "I still don't know what the hell's going on, or why we're actually protecting this fucker." He pointed to Levi, "Far as I'm concerned, the crowd wants him. If they get him, this all stops, and we can go back to normal."

Harper stepped forward, "Talon, no. He needs to come with us on this quest."

Talon didn't look at her, he just glared at Levi. "I don't know what that leaf bullshit was all about, but you've got her blinded by something." He swiftly reached behind him and pulled his revolver out, seemingly from nowhere, and aimed it at Levi's head. "I, however, ain't so blind."

At this, we all widened our eyes and looked at each other. Levi didn't seem fazed by this, he just took it, like he did the beating in the arena.

Harper however, stood in front of the barrel, between it and her brother. "Talon, stop! I know it seems crazy, but this has to happen. It's the only way he can prove he's changed!"

"I made you a promise." He said, "I told you we'd get him. On my life, remember?"

At that, Harper closed her eyes and nodded, seemingly remembering the event. I, along with Matt didn't know what she was talking about. Matt seemed even more confused than me, probably at the fact the two had agreed on something, much less made a promise to each other.

"I know you did." She said, "And I know what I said, but things are...different now. I want to try and work this out."

Talon's eyes seemed to do a single dart between her and Levi. He tightened his lips in frustration. "And if you get hurt? If the camp never wants us back? What then?"

She shook her head slowly, "That won't happen. I'll make sure of it."

Talon didn't put his gun down, instead, he moved it to the side a little, away from Harper's head and instead at Levi's. "You mute or something? How do you feel about this?"

Levi shrugged, "I know I deserve it. I'm not going to beg for life. If you want to shoot me, then shoot me."

Talon nodded, "Alright then." He cocked back the hammer and put his finger on the trigger.

Harper shouted, "No!" She lunged forward and grabbed his forearm with both her hands, jumping back in the line of fire. I could tell Talon was surprised, as his eyebrows raised behind his sunglasses.

"Get out of the way, dammit!" He said, "I'm doing this for you! Can't you see, he's going to betray you again!"

She tightened her grip on his arm as he struggled, "No, he's not! He's changed! And I want to forgive him!"

At that, Talon stopped struggling. He looked down at her with wide eyes, realization hitting him, and us, at Harper's declaration. We were all seeing now just how badly she wanted this. In truth, it was probably her deepest desire, to have her brother back to normal.

"I know what he did was awful." She said, "I know that. But I want to at least try." She looked up at Talon with pleading eyes. Even the blind one, held emotion. "Talon...please."

Talon's look softened, then hardened in frustration. He gritted his teeth and lowered the gun, squeezing the handle with anger.

He took his sunglasses off, walked past Harper, and stood face to face with Levi. The cowboy was seething, and with a flash, his eyes turned a faint red. I felt a sense of bloodlust enter the dome, and absolute dread filled over me. Like we were about to enter a battle that we knew we wouldn't win, all of us were going to die, guaranteed. Talon rarely used this ability nowadays, but I recognized it, and it wasn't even aimed at me.

He put a finger to Levi's chest, "Give me a reason to think you'll hurt her, and I'm pumping your skull full of lead. Got that?"

His tone brokered no argument, and Levi nodded. "I understand."

Harper watched on with slight disbelief. We all sort of did. Talon wasn't drunk anymore, he was talking normally and keeping up with us fine, so that threat was all him. It surprised us, that he seemed to care about Harper so much. From being around Camp, you'd think the two hated each other, but clearly that wasn't the case.

Another series of loud clanging erupted outside, and one of the swords even broke through the rock.

"Okay, I hate to ruin the moment, but we seriously need to start planning here!" Annabeth said.

Matt shook out of his daze, "R-Right. Um...I'm trying to think. Um...can we even call it a quest without consulting Rachel or Mr. D?"

"Matt!"

"Okay, sorry! The quest then, is to travel to San Francisco, defeat Ouranos while he's weak, somehow defeat Atlas too, and rescue Malachi and Sera, right?"

We all nodded, except for me. I suddenly remembered a kind of important detail.

"Wait, guys. There's something else too, remember? Oceanus."

Their faces fell at that, completely forgetting the fact that we had another titan on our tails, or at least, on mine. A freaking underwater war was raging, and I forgot about it, go figure.

But in all seriousness...I couldn't go. I have to help my dad; I have to help all those people down there. I have to be here for the camp, even if it hates me now.

Matt looked at me with concern, "You'll have to stay, won't you?"

I nodded, "I'm sorry, man. Dad needs me, and well...the camp needs me to. You guys go ahead, I'll be fine."

Annabeth put a hand on my shoulder, "I'm staying too."

I furrowed my eyebrows, "No, Annabeth. They need your help. Go to San Francisco with them, I got this."

She smirked at me and shook her head, "No, Seaweed Brain. Whether you want to admit it or not, you need me. We're a team, remember? Where you go, I go."

I smiled at her statement, feeling my heart swell in my chest. Man, I'm so lucky to be with her.

Annabeth shrugged, "Besides, they have Harper. That's all the brains they need. Um, no offense guys."

They didn't seem to take offense. Harper stepped forward and hugged Annabeth tightly, the latter returning the embrace with a bittersweet grin. I had to remember just how much they talked and hung out. They were kind of like sisters, in a way.

"We'll be back soon." Harper said, pulling away. "Be careful, Annie."

"I will."

I turned to Matt, and both of us gave our signature awkward shrugs and neck scratches at the same time. After a moment, we clasped forearms.

"Again man, I wish I could come." I said, "But you know, where there's one disaster, there's another nearby."

He smiled, and shook his head, "Nah, man. No need to be sorry. You've got your own mission, and that's okay. Good luck with it."

"Same to you."

A few more goodbyes took place, Talon, Annabeth and I, and none involving Levi. It was odd, because I wanted to say something to him, but I just didn't know how, or what. Something kind of clicked in my head though, looking at him. He...had changed, and call it instinct or something else, but I swear I could sense his emotions, and he was sincere about this. He wanted to help.

Matt addressed his group, "Alright guys, on the count of three, I'm opening this dome. When it does, everyone run and get what you need. Essentials only. Clothes, ambrosia, or any supplies you absolutely need. I'm going to call Kyros out of the infirmary, and we're flying out on him."

Harper intervened, "Wait, I thought he was hurt. Are you sure he can fly all of us right now?"

Matt didn't seem so sure, "He's a tough bird. I hate to do it, but we don't have much of a choice. If he's not doing so good, we'll stop in the city or something. But right now, we need him to get out of here."

They all agreed, and we prepared ourselves for departure.

"Alright, here we go. One."

"Two."

"THREE!"

Just as he said it, the dome opened, and all the rock returned to the ground. We were greeted with swarms of campers around us, all yelling and slashing their weapons. Some of them fell on their rears and jumped back when the dome opened, allowing Matt a half second of a head start.

They took it. All of them nearly disappeared from view and ran to their respective cabins. Levi must've followed Harper to the Nemesis cabin, because several campers caught sight of him, and changed their direction. People were running over each other, bumping into one another, it was chaos.

Out of nowhere, Aiden fell from the crowd at our feet, his lip bleeding.

I reached down to help him up, "You alright, man?"

He coughed, "They're crazy! How are you guys going to stop them?!"

Annabeth looked on with horror, probably thinking the same thing. "They'll stop...but in a few minutes, they won't be very happy."

It was true. Before we knew it, Matt and everybody else were taking off. Matt emerged from the cabin hill and let out a loud, piercing whistle. Not a second passed before Kyros came soaring from the infirmary, changing back to his larger form mid take off.

"Guys, let's go!" He yelled, projecting his voice across camp.

Harper and the others didn't wait up. Kyros swooped by where Matt was, and the son of Hercules jumped on with stride. Kryos did the same thing with everyone else, and they were quick enough to get on, save for Levi.

In his weak state, his reaction time must've been worse than normal, because he jumped a little too late, and ended up hanging off Kyros by a feather on the eagle's leg.

Kyros cawed in annoyance and slowed down, allowing enough time for a legion of Campers to hound Levi. Several people climbed on top of each other just to get to him, and one person even grabbed his leg.

From the group, I heard Nico. "DON'T LET HIM GET AWAY! KILL HIM! KILL HIM NOW!"

Harper tried to reach down from the saddle, but it was too far a distance. Even with both hands outstretched, she was still inches away from his fingers.

"Someone has to do something!" Annabeth said, "They'll drag Kyros down with them!"

I hardened my expression and looked at the lake to our left. I'd get a lot of hate for this, and everyone would probably never respect me again. But if this was a matter of saving the quest and stopping Ouranos...then I'd do it.

"I got it."

Annabeth and Aiden looked at me, shocked, and probably going to ask what I meant. But I'm a shower, not a teller.

I ran towards the crowd trying to drag Levi down and raised my hand level with the lake. My palm was in line with the water, and off the bat, I could feel it's mist dancing around my fingers. The familiar sensation pulled on my gut, I heard splashing, and eventually that force against my muscles. I had locked on.

"Sorry about this!" I said, and swiped my hand in the air, like I was swinging a baseball bat with one hand. Several gallons of water erupted from the lake's shore and plummeted towards the crowd. Campers got soaked and the force of the blast sent them tumbling, the camper that had a grip on Levi's couldn't withstand the resistance.

"Go, Kyros!" Matt ordered, and the bird obeyed. With a loud screeching caw, it kicked it's leg in the air and threw Levi in the saddle. A single wing flap secured their takeoff. Wind blew all around us as Kyros ascended to the sky. His figure got smaller and smaller in the distance, and before I knew it, I was looking at clear sky.

"Good luck, guys." I muttered, to them, and kind of too myself. I didn't pray all that much to any Olympian, and when I did, it was mainly to my dad. But now I was holding out for some kind of miracle. If it took me praying to Ares, I would do it, as much as I dislike that guy. I wanted them to succeed in rescuing our friends and taking down Ouranos. And while they realistically can't beat Atlas, I still wanted them to blind his other eye for good measure.

"What the hell, Jackson?!" A voice roared behind me. Several more joined in and cursed my name.

I turned and saw a LOT of angry, wet campers, glaring me down. With swords in their hands, all facing me like an army about to attack...I didn't feel so good at the moment.

I put my hands up, "Guys, I know it looks bad, and seems crazy. I'm sorry about all of this, but it's the right thing to do."

"Right thing to do?! Shut the hell up!"

"What was that crap about Ouranos anyway?!"

"He's in San Francisco." I explained, "And he's weak right now. They're going on a quest to stop him, once and for all."

A bunch of angry shouts followed, and I couldn't catch them all, but the main consensus was that they weren't happy.

Out of it, I caught; "Yeah, and that's what they said about Scandinavia!"

"Why are they taking that son of a bitch with them, then?!"

"You're our leader! How could you let them do that?!"

"I looked up to you, Percy!"

The voices became too much, and I'll admit, I started to crack under all of it. I'd never received such backlash before. I mean, in this leadership position, I've had a couple of complaints, but never anything like this. They were really mad, a few of them even clenching their weapons. Were they actually going to try and hurt me?

Well, I technically just doused them with water. But that wasn't even that bad. They looked like they wanted to run me through with a spear.

I felt Annabeth's shoulder brush up against mine, and I instantly felt better, having her stand next to me.

"Listen, everyone! It wasn't Percy's decision to make! We just need to accept this and hope they succeed!"

"Bullshit!"

"He just attacked us!"

"He saved that murderer!"

"Chiron was like a father to you, and you just let that monster get away!"

There was much more where that came from. Despite Annabeth's argument attempts and protests, she was just one person. No matter how long she'd been here, or her shared title of Camp Leader, the crowd was furious, and they didn't care. It got to the point where they started advancing on us, slowly. Annabeth and I were backing up without even knowing it, losing our ground.

"EVERYONE, SHUT UP!"

We all looked to the source of the outburst, to see Aiden standing a few feet away from us, his face red with frustration.

He addressed the mob, "Seriously, everyone needs to shut the hell up and calm down for five seconds! Look in the mirror, guys! You look like a tribe of cavemen!"

Nico appeared at the front of the crowd all of a sudden, pushing aside the people already there. He pointed his finger at Aiden. "Aiden, get away from them."

"NO!" Aiden retorted, "I'm going to speak my mind, and you are all going to listen!"

Nico's eyes widened, and he lowered his finger. Everyone was a little taken aback, and for a second, they all seemed to stop, and just study Harper's half-brother. This kid was usually quiet, reserved and not involved in too much. But now here he was, standing up for us and taking on an angry group.

"Do you people have any idea how much they've done for this camp?!" He asked, "Huh, any of you?! Matt, Harper, and Talon have risked their lives for this freaking place, time and time again. They've made calls that you sheep could never make! They've held weight on their shoulders that most of you could never carry! And you're going to chase them around for making a near impossible decision?!"

Everyone was dead silent at Aiden's rant. I was too and watching on with genuine shock. He was really giving it to them right now, and speaking coherently, no stutters, no paused. Aiden had really grown up.

"I know Levi is a horrible person, and what he did...was awful, and maybe irredeemable. But that's Harper's brother! And despite what you think, she remembers a time when he was good! All she wants in her heart, and really all she's ever wanted is to get that relationship back! Now she has a chance, and you're going to blame her for trying?! Give me a fucking break."

"That monster deserves justice." Nico said, "I know Harper's had a tough time, and her wanting to make things right is understandable. We're not blaming her. We just know that what he did, the crimes he committed, are beyond her desires. When Levi killed Chiron and...Will, he drug all of our emotions into the mix. Can you blame us for wanting to see him dead?"

Aiden took a breath at that one and pondered it for a second. It was clear he was having a tough time thinking of things to say, and maybe even questioning whether this was worth it at all. He glanced at me and found a little resolve.

"I don't blame any of you. Hell, I hated the guy too, and to be honest, I still do. But I saw the look on his face, I saw the way he just took the beating in that arena. He hates himself and wants to die. That's a genuine want for change! If he proves himself on this quest, then we need to accept that!"

"After all of our talks about Will, and how dead inside I felt after that. I can't believe you'd even support the idea of letting him walk free." Nico said, a little hurt and betrayed.

"I never meant it like that."

The son of Hades scoffed, "Yeah well, it came off as such." He looked at me, "And you. I know we've had our differences over the years, but you know that I respect you. Both of you. Now...I'm not so sure that you're fit to lead the Camp."

Several of the campers muttered their agreement. I just shook my head, "Nico, you're being controlled by your anger. Just take a minute and think about what you're saying."

"Oh, I'm well aware of what I'm saying."

"You want us to step down?" Annabeth asked. "Look everybody, I know you're mad, but that's not a wise move. This camp needs leaders, especially now."

"We know." Someone in the middle said, "It just shouldn't be you."

I looked at the crowd in disbelief. Were they actually kicking us out?

"Who's gonna be the leader then?" I asked, a little angrily, "Mr. D? Come on guys, let's be real. I know I'm not anything special, but Annabeth is smart, and she knows how to run this place. Let me step down, that's fine, but keep her."

"She's right there with you, dude!"

"It's unwise to let that piece of shit into the world. For a daughter of Athena, going along with that makes no sense."

I couldn't believe how they were acting right now. Anger is one thing, but this? This was downright insane. Most of the decisions around here are made by Annabeth. She's the one that's been protecting us, giving us better rules, changing things that needed to be changed, keeping things in line. And they want to get rid of her?

Annabeth herself looked stressed out of her mind. Her hands were dying to cover her ears, and her legs were yearning to run to the Big House and never come out. I could tell she was embarrassed, and maybe even a little guilty.

"If that's what everyone wants." Annabeth said, "Fine. But you'll see where it leads. A camp without a leader will only end up in anarchy."

"Annabeth, no!" I said in a whisper yell. "Fight for it! Don't let them intimidate you!"

"It's okay." She said, "Trust me. If this is for the worse, they'll realize it, and if it's for the best...then so be it." She raised her voice and talked directly to the camp. "There is a rule I implemented last year when we became Camp directors, that in the event the majority feels we have become unfit to lead, or find our actions tyrannical, they can kick us out of our position. Are you all invoking that right?"

There were some more murmurs, some people shook their head, and some even seemed to snap out of their trance, and actually thought about what they were agreeing to. They seemed to study us, and I could tell they were gauging our worth. A lot of the new campers at least.

Finally, after the exchanging of looks, Nico gave it to us straight. "Yeah, we are. Not permanently, but for now. We just need to see how this works."

I forced a slow nod and looked at the ground, trying my best not to clench my fists. What were they thinking? I mean seriously, getting rid of Annabeth? That's not going to work out for them in the long run, believe me.

"Fine then." Annabeth said, forcing a stern voice. I could tell this had her upset. "We'll step aside, and you guys can do your thing."

With that, she stormed off, leaving me facing the crowd on my own. Aiden gave me a helpless shrug.

"You just made a mistake, man." I told Nico.

"We'll see."

I shook my head, disappointed, and followed Annabeth to the big house.

Coming through the door, I didn't find her in the living room. Instead, I heard footsteps and clattering upstairs, in our bedroom.

"Annabeth?"

No answer. I walked up the stairs and turned the corner, finding the bedroom door wide open, and Annabeth packing a suitcase.

I knit my eyebrows, "What are you doing?"

She ignored me and kept packing. She didn't even put her items in like she normally does, neat and in order. This time she was frantic, and just shoving things in.

I kneeled next to her and put a hand on her shoulder. "Hey, what are you-"

I stopped talking when I saw her face. She was crying.

My breath hitched in my throat, and anger filled my chest. "Alright, that's enough of this crap. I'm going back out there and telling them we're not stepping down. They'll just have to deal with it and pout on their own free time."

I started to get up, but Annabeth stopped me. "No, Percy. You know that'll only make things worse. I'm fine, really."

"No, you're not. Stop packing and tell me what's going on."

She hesitated and held the clothes for a moment. I urged her with my eyes to put them down, and she eventually did. It always works, these eyes are like keys.

She sighed and sat cross legged on the hardwood floor. "I just...gods, Percy, the whole camp hates us now. We literally got fired from our director position."

I reached out and rubbed circles on the back of her hand, "Hey, everything will be fine. They just need a week or two to cool off."

She shook her head, frustrated. "No, it won't. In their eyes, we just helped a murderer escape, which...isn't far from the truth. They won't forget that."

"I know."

"I just think..." She sniffled, "Have we failed him? He trusted us, Percy. He trusted us to lead this camp effectively, and make sure everything turned out alright. But things aren't alright, they're awful. This place was downright depressing for months, and just when we started to boost morale back up, rebuild the cabins and recruit new campers, this happens."

I knew she was referring to Chiron, and that made my heart drop to my stomach.

"Yeah, part of me does feel that way, that we're, or at least I'm not living up to his expectations."

We sat in silence for a moment, not sure of what to say. Both of us felt this way, so what was there? Nothing. We just move on, I guess.

Annabeth started to pack again, this time slower and neater. "I need to get away for a couple of days, and just...get my mind off things. I feel like my head's going to explode."

"Okay. Where were you thinking?"

She shrugged and wiped her cheeks, "Your apartment...if that's alright. Will Sally be okay with that?"

I chuckled, "Pfft, she loves you. You know you're always welcome there."

She smiled, "Thank you."

I sighed and looked at the wall, "I guess I should get away too. Good time to see what's going on with dad."

I got a stern look from that, "Be careful, Percy. And don't be gone for two weeks with no word. I hate it when you do that."

"When have I done that?"

"Mount St. Helens. Your little Achilles Curse trip with Nico. Those ring a bell?"

"Well, that second one was only like two days, so doesn't count."

We both laughed and smiled at each other. At the end of the day, we couldn't hold grudges against each other, or be mad at one another. We were a team, hopefully soon an eternal team.

Hey...that's where I could go! I could finally ask Annabeth's dad for his blessing!

Okay, road trip, let's go.

At this, my smile turned a little giddy, and I had to hide it so she wouldn't get suspicious. So, I leaned forward and kissed her. Yep, good save.

When we parted, I moved my hand to her cheek.

"Alright wise girl, let's take a vacation."

Matt

So this is officially happening.

We're going on another quest. Just like that. Yay.

Actually no, I mean that yay. A chance to get Malachi and Sera back, a chance to take down Ouranos. I'm always up for that. You better believe I'm giving this my all.

I thought about all of this as I took my chest plate out of my bag and put it on. We'd all brought enough supplies to last us for a while. Clothes, ambrosia, nectar, the works. Besides, if we needed anything specific, we could always ask Talon to just create something with his abilities.

I put both limbs through the armor and looked at the horizon in front of us. It held so many possibilities. On the other side, was waiting a great victory.

Or a great loss...

But that wouldn't happen again. I wouldn't let it.

"Hey!" I heard Harper shout. I turned and saw the wind blowing her hair wildly. "Could you block the wind out?!"

"Oh yeah, sorry!" I forgot the wind was probably bothering them. I'd gotten so used to it that I didn't think twice.

I unsheathed Viribus and stuck it out in front of me, willing the wind to form a shield around us. It did, and soon everything was quiet.

Talon sighed, "Finally, thank you."

We all took a moment to breathe. It had been crazy back there, once that dome was dropped. I hightailed it to my cabin and got what I needed, while everyone else did the same. Levi had almost been taken off Kyros, what with all those campers trying to drag us down with them.

We were all wondering what was going on there now. It was no secret that we left Percy and Annabeth in a sticky situation, and it sucked. Guilt was wiped on our faces.

Harper looked back in the direction of camp as we flew over the city. You couldn't see it from here, but you could see the large forest that inhabited it.

"I hope they're okay." She said, "Things were downright zombie-like back there."

From my left, Levi slumped and hugged his knees to his chest.

"It's all my fault. I shouldn't have come here."

Talon snorted, "Yeah, got that right."

"Hey, if he didn't then we wouldn't know that Ouranos stayed in San Francisco, and that he still has Malachi and Sera. Yeah, things were bad back there, but the potential good outweighs it."

Talon started with a retort but held it and shook his head.

"Look guys, I'm not gonna avoid the elephant on the saddle. I know having Levi with us is weird, but we need to accept that right now, he seems to be on our side. So, we all need to get on the same page, or we're gonna die in an instant. And I don't know about you, but I want to take down this bastard."

I tried to make it like I was talking to Harper too, but really, I was trying to get to Talon. Harper was the one that decided to keep Levi alive, it was just Talon that needed convincing. Even though that'll never happen, based on what he said back there, he would always be suspicious.

What he said back there, it had also been running through my mind. He threatened Levi on Harper's behalf, protectively. It was kind of unexpected, for me at least. Talon and Harper are arguing with each other ninety percent of the time, so seeing Talon want to kill Levi, in the thought that it would keep her from getting hurt...well, it's just surprising.

"Whatever." He grumbled, "As long as we got a shot at getting Malachi and Sera back...then I don't care if he comes."

Harper nodded, "Good. We need all the help we can get anyway, and with his inside knowledge, it should give us an advantage."

"Inside knowledge?" Levi said.

"Yeah. You know how Ouranos thinks better than anybody, and besides, you've seen their base up close. You can tell us where Sera is kept, and who Ouranos recruited from that prison in Tartarus."

Levi raised his eyebrows in shock, "How do you know about that?"

"I had a vision." I said, "And besides, that magician looking guy didn't come from the local 'rent a bad guy' store, did he?"

Levi shook his head grimly, "No, he didn't. But I don't know that much about him, only that he's a son of Hecate, and he uses magic to fight."

Talon made a mocking ghost like noise, "Oooh, dangerous. What does he do, summon pigeons and throw playing cards at you?"

"Maybe. But I'd guess he has a few lethal tricks up his sleeve." Levi narrowed his eyes in thought, "When I was spying on them, I could've sworn I overheard something about an ancient massacre, and that he was involved in it."

"Ancient?" Harper said, "There's no way. The dude looked like he was thirty in your memory."

"That's just what I heard."

Talon was interested now, and leaned forward, "Any more you wanna tell us about?"

"Well, there was one more, but I didn't get a good look at him. He or rather it was in the back of the cave...struggling with something."

"Struggling?"

"I imagine, since it screamed and groaned the entire time. Not out of pain, but more like...sadness."

"What did it sound like?"

"A monster." He confirmed without hesitation. "For sure. No human could sound like that."

His tone was eerie, and held a sense of danger to it. Whatever that thing he was talking about was, it didn't need to be underestimated.

"Alright." I started, "So Ouranos's new group is Malachi, Atlas, a son of Hecate, and the monster in the cave. We know what we're dealing with now."

I listed it pretty casually, but one of those guys was powerful enough to fight me to a stalemate, and the other was powerful enough to utterly destroy me, and even break my back with ease. The other two could potentially be just as dangerous, we didn't know. Since our last quest, I've acquired a new outlook; Assume everyone you come across is stronger than you and could kill you. That way you never underestimate them, and you're always ready. Call it paranoia if you want, but I think it's tactical.

Talon's eyes widened, "Wait...Atlas?! That guy works for Ouranos now?!" At my nod, he just laughed humorlessly and groaned, "Of course. Why not! Atlas, no big deal, none at all."

Harper looked to the horizon, now behind a vast sea, and the city behind us. "Now it's a matter of getting there. Does Kyros know where San Francisco is? Or that we're even supposed to go there?"

I tapped my temple with my finger, "Already told him. And Kyros knows the entire country like one of his feathers. Remember, he's hundreds of years old."

Right after I said that his flight wavered a bit, and he nearly lost his position in the air. We held on to the saddle in time to not be thrown off though.

"Sounds like this bird needs to take a load off." Talon said, "He hungry?"

"No. He's...still hurt. When we were in the city, Atlas attacked Kyros and nearly killed him. I got to him in time, but I don't think Viribus can fully heal it."

I kneeled down, and with my unoccupied hand I touched Kyros's head.

You alright, buddy? I asked with my emotions.

Can fly. He urged. But rest soon.

I nodded and turned to the others. "He says he's good for now, but we'll probably have to stop somewhere soon."

"Wait, you can speak to that bird?" Levi asked, genuinely curious. "With your mind?"

"Well, it's more of us just reading each other's emotions. But technically, yeah."

He studied me for a moment, then let out a puff of breath. "I'd expect no less from you, Matt. It's no wonder he fears you."

I reared my head back a little. He fears me? Who?

"Wait a second. Who? Who fears me?"

Levi didn't say anything. He just reached in his jacket pocket and dug around for something.

After a second, he pulled out the Heavenly Diamond knife, the one that we put on the table in the Big House.

Talon backed away and pointed at the weapon like it was going to explode. "Hold on! What the fuck is that! Is that what I think it is?!"

"I grabbed it just before we took off. Figured you could use it."

I wanted to know what he was going to say, more specifically who was afraid of me. But feeling the presence of Heavenly Diamond must've broken my thoughts, and the fact that I was impressed with Levi, a tiny bit. Grabbing the knife while being chased by an angry mob, no less upstairs in the Big House couldn't have been easy.

He held it out to me, and I started to take it. But something stopped me.

"You know what...you can hold on to it."

Everyone, even Harper was fairly shocked. Talon looked at me like I had three heads.

"Are you insane?! You're gonna let that loose cannon hold on to something that dangerous?! Let me take it, or let goth girl take it, or let-"

"I trust him." I said, louder than Talon to get my point across. "If we're going to work together, we need to have some trust. Besides, I don't want to touch Heavenly Diamond. I dislike it, a lot."

Levi sat there for a moment, thunderstruck at my response. But I meant it. He wanted to prove he'd changed, fine. If he didn't betray us by stabbing me or Talon in the back with that knife, literally, then that was a start. I knew it was a big gamble, but I had faith in this decision.

He nodded, a little grateful, and stuck the knife back in his pocket.

"Alright then." I turned away from everyone and focused my eye ahead. "Get comfortable everyone, because we've got a lot of flying to do."

Percy

I don't care what anyone says. I like my Prius.

Call it a girl car, say that a demigod like me should be driving a Mustang or something, I don't care. This thing gets insanely good gas mileage, and believe me, that's worth it in the long run.

After I said goodbye to Annabeth, she had Argus drive her to my mom's apartment in the city. Argus was a nice guy, and one of the few people that hadn't turned against us. He's one of our camp guards, and a really good one at that. If you don't already know, Argus has hundreds of eyes all over his body.

Afterwards, I decided to take off myself. Everyone at Camp didn't object to us leaving, as they kept quiet, and even shot some distasteful looks our way. Whatever.

I went back inside and got my keys from the nightstand. On my way out the door, I had a little conversation with my favorite god, Mr. D.

He had been sitting on the porch rocking chair, waiting for me to come out.

When I did, I saw him, and tried to keep walking.

"Mr. Johnson. Leaving so soon?"

I should've kept walking and ignored him, but something possessed me to stop and actually respond. I knew I'd regret it.

"Yeah, I've got some things I need to take care of."

He ignored that, "Heard you and Annie belle got kicked out."

I didn't even let it get to me. I just let his words bounce off of me like a ricocheting bullet.

"We're not kicked out. We just...aren't the camp directors anymore, for right now."

Mr. D picked up his glass of wine and sipped it, "And so that's it? You two are just going to take off and cry for a few days?"

Now that, I heard. I furrowed my eyebrows and got annoyed. He was just baiting me, I knew it, but at the same time, it was hard to ignore him, to not retort with anything.

I walked up to the bottom step of the porch, "We're not crying. We just need some time off, that's all."

He nodded mockingly, "Ah, I see. Time off. Is that what you're calling it?"

"Hey man, what's the problem? They made their freaking choice, and there's nothing we can do about it."

"See, that's where your wrong, Son of Poseidon." He said, leaning forward. His tone got deeper, and I was a little taken back. He wasn't drunk, and for a second his pudgy figure flashed something different, something I'd never seen before. For a moment he looked almost...god-like. Like the pictures and statues I'd seen of him.

"Instead of running away, you can address these heathens, and tell them the truth. That you are their leader, and they have to live with it. Tell them that they are going to disagree with you, that's normal, but that shouldn't diminish their respect of you, or the title of authority." He raised a finger, "If you leave now, that's a sign of weakness. Without a protest for your position, it makes it seem like you don't want it at all."

What he was saying made sense. In the back of my mind, I wanted to do it, I wanted to fight for our spot. But...at the same time, I wanted a break. I wanted to get away from the stress for a while, and I hated that. I knew I shouldn't think that way.

"They want us gone, Mr. D. Besides, Annabeth made a rule saying that if they saw us unfit to lead, they could demote us. We can't go back on that."

"Wake up, Jackson. Realize that this is not a game and forget a stupid law like that. This place, as much as it pains me to say it, needs you and that girl. You know it, you grew up here, and you are fit to lead it. Chiron...trusted you with this place. Do you think everyone agreed with him all the time? No. With this many people, it will never happen. You have to accept that and endure."

I gritted my teeth and tried my best to remain facing him. I wanted to turn away from it all, and just go sit in a corner for the rest of the day.

"Since when do you care about this place?" I said, "I thought you hated it here!"

He glared at me, his eyes a fiery purple, like I'd seen them many times when he was angry. He sat back in his chair and looked across the camp, in the direction of the lake, and more specifically, Chiron's grave.

"When I was first assigned here, I will admit, I hated this place. I genuinely hated it, and the campers. I was bitter, and angry at my father for punishing me over something so stupid. But over time...yes, I grew to care for this place. Chiron was my friend, and he's gone. I watched countless campers give their life for this place, but somehow the number always returned. This camp has endured through much, and it will stay that way. I'm giving you this advice, because through it all, I think you are a good hero, perhaps one of the greatest. I have witnessed you battle gods, monsters, even Kronos, without giving up. So the thought of you cowering from a bunch of people who simply disagree with you, is sickening."

I stood there, mouth open slightly. I was completely taken aback by his rant, and hearing his true feelings towards the camp. I never knew it. I mean, I always had some inkling that he cared about Camp, a tiny bit, but I never knew it was that big of a deal to him.

I wanted to stay, I did. But now I couldn't. I had to help my dad, and I had to get away from all of this. I wasn't leaving, not at all.

"I'm not leaving." I said, "Okay, I'm not. And I won't give up on our position. But right now, I do have things to take care of. My dad needs help."

He seemed like he wanted to press further, but he just sighed and studied me. His eyes challenged me to keep that declaration and come back to reclaim my spot.

That was an hour ago.

Now, I was in my car, driving to Virginia. And I already know what you're going to say. Percy, if you're going to see Annabeth's dad, shouldn't you be going with Matt and the others to San Francisco?

Yeah, he lived in San Francisco for a while, and he still does. But last year, Annabeth's dad and stepmom bought a house in Virginia, which is where Annabeth originally grew up. I think it had something to do with some kind of project down there. Her dad loves planes and old wars, so I figured he was building one down there, or attending some kind of convention. He used to have this table with all these army figurines on it, in position to reenact whatever battle he thought of that day. It was kind of cool.

I had entered his address in the GPS when I got in the car, and now I was just coasting along the New York countryside, watching the trees and sky go by. A couple of times I tried to rehearse what I was going to say, because this was a huge deal after all. Asking any dad for permission to marry his daughter is nerve wrecking, mortal or not. My palms were pretty much slick since I left Camp.

"Mr. Chase, I have something I need to ask you."

I cringed, "No, no, what if he wants to make small talk? Gotta think of some small talk first. Can't just barge in."

"Yeah Mr. Chase, that's a cool airplane. Nice figures too- Hey! Is that a new dress Mrs. Chase?"

"Did you guys get a cat?"

"I really like the yard, Mr. Chase. Do you use turf grass, or do you just mow it regularly?"

This went on for a while, me talking to myself in the car like a lunatic. Nothing I said to myself felt right, and I just decided to stop. It's worse to have rehearsed lines anyway. No, I just needed to speak from the heart. Yeah, that's what I would do. I'd look him in the eye and tell him how much I love Annabeth, and how serious I am about asking her to marry me.

Heh, I've got this in the bag.

Smiling ear to ear, I turned on the radio. I wasn't about to listen to ambient noises for the whole ride, I had to have some tunes.

It took a minute to find a station I liked, but when I did, it was smooth sailing from there. I kept one hand on the wheel, turned when I needed to, and made sure the speedometer clung to fifty-five.

Everything was normal, until it wasn't.

At no particular point, on a straightaway, this flash of light appeared in the middle of the road.

"WHOA!" I yelled and slammed on the brakes. The car slid and swerved to the side, making a horrible screeching noise in the process.

BOOM!

The flash of light became an explosion, and I ducked down in my car. I heard a few pieces of the pavement hit the side of the car, the air pressure from the blast shook it and nearly turned it over. All the while I guarded my head and kept my eyes closed. What the heck was going on?

When everything cleared up, and I could actually see again. I got out of the car, finding myself waving my hand wildly in front of me to block out any smoke.

What happened? Did someone wreck, or fall from the sky?

I stepped closer to the wall of dust and saw...a figure standing in the middle.

"Hey!" I shouted, cupping my hand over my mouth, "Are you okay?!"

The figure's head turned to me, and there was a moment of recognition it seemed. Like it was saying yep, I found the right person.

The dust cleared at the figure's will, like literally whooshed away behind it. It, or rather him stepped out and confronted me.

Triton.

"Hello, brother." He said, "Going somewhere?"

"What the crap are you doing here?!" I shouted, delirious. "A-And why would you just crash into the road like that?! Where did you even come from?! How-"

He held a hand up and scrunched his face in annoyance, "Okay, okay, enough. Jeez, you talk more than my ex-girlfriend."

I gestured angrily to the scratch marks on my car. "Well excuse me, but I think I have a decent reason to be upset! Dude, you just crashed into the freaking road like it's a normal thing!"

"Gods travel by teleporting. And since you were moving at a constant speed, I had to pick a spot in front of where you were going. There, explained. Happy now?"

I grumbled, "My car has scratch marks on it."

"Forget about the vehicle. I came to talk to you about something."

Talk to me? Never would I have thought Triton would go out of his way to find me, on...mortal ground no less. Speaking of which, seeing him on land and not underwater was really, really weird. First of all, he had two legs, and no merman tail, like a normal person, and he was dressed in relatively normal clothes. Dark jeans, boots, and a trench coat over a tee. Around his neck were several necklaces, on each end some kind of fish part. I made out a couple of shark's teeth, and even a little sand dollar.

"And you couldn't have waited until I stopped driving, then?"

"No."

The way he said it, it held actual importance. This wasn't a joke.

"Alright fine. But whatever it is, we can talk about it in the car. I'm going to Virginia to do something important."

"What is it?"

I started to say it but bit my lip. Should I tell him? First of all, I don't love the guy, and I barely know him, so revealing the personal details of my life isn't exactly an ice breaker for brotherly bonding. Second of all, if he finds out I intend to marry a daughter of Athena, he'll probably get mad and tell our father. And I'm not quite ready for him to know.

But he doesn't know who Annabeth is. For all he thinks, she's a regular mortal.

I went with that. "I'm asking my girlfriend's dad his permission to marry her."

Triton raised his eyebrow in surprise and crossed his arms. "Hmm, that's quite honorable of you."

"Well, I think it's the proper thing to do."

"That it is. Nice to hear that mortals still follow tradition."

"Yeah, and I'd like to go ahead and get this tradition over with. I've been delaying it long enough." I started to get back in the car, but he stopped me by putting his hand on the door.

"No need. I will take you there myself. We can talk afterwards."

I reared my head back, "Wait, you'll take me there? What, by teleporting?"

He nodded. "Yes. Just tell me the address and I should be able to picture it."

I was a little anxious about teleporting again. Last time I'd been involved in that, it messed my stomach up for a few hours. I think I even threw up.

But if it got us there quicker...

I took my hand off the car door. "Alright, fine." I told him the address, and he caught every word of it, nodding and motioning for me to grab his arm.

I did, and he warned me, "Brace yourself, and close your eyes."

"Wait, what-"

"Just do it!"

I shut up and closed my eyes. No sooner than I did, I felt myself seemingly shrinking, breaking into a million pieces and being put back together again. The sensation wasn't painful, just...odd. It was like being on a really tall, fast roller coaster. You get dizzy, and your stomach goes in your chest.

Maybe half a second passed and we were on solid ground, just like that. I felt concrete under my shoes, and the temperature slightly colder, maybe by a couple of degrees.

"You can open them now."

I slowly, carefully opened my eyes. When my vision cleared, I gasped in shock. We were in Virginia, at the exact address I told him. I'd been to this house once before when Annabeth's dad and stepmom moved in, and it hadn't changed a bit. It was in the middle of a private community type place, with a sidewalk connecting multiple houses and mailboxes. Their place was regular sized, with two stories and a nice brick design on the outside.

"Whoa, we're actually here..." I said, in a sort of awe. "I mean, Hera transported us once too, but her being the Queen of Olympus and all, I didn't think twice about it. But you...well, it didn't feel any different."

Triton nodded, "Teleportation is commonly misinterpreted as a god's trait. People think that you immediately receive it if you are born as a god, or if you become one. But in actuality, it's a technique that can be learned."

I turned to him, "A technique?"

"Of course. You don't just get it when you become a god. You have to learn how to do it, how to use it without getting hurt or blasted to another realm. It takes years, even decades to fully master. With father's help though, it took me no longer than eight months."

"Eight months?! And you can go anywhere?"

He cocked his head, "Well...I wouldn't say that. But nearly."

"So even I could do it if I learned how?"

"Yes. Though it would be much, much harder, it is possible for a demigod to learn such a technique."

I racked my brain, and remembered that in fact, I had seen someone my age do it. Malachi. He had the exact same ability. He could teleport himself through lightning, and even bring numerous others with him.

I was so overtaken with this new information that I forgot why I was even here in the first place. Until a familiar voice broke my thoughts.

"Percy?"

I looked up to see Annabeth's dad, standing in the doorway. He had on his bathrobe over a shirt and pajama pants. It kind of confused me until I realized it was probably late in the evening, and close to being dark.

"Uh, hey Mr. Chase. Can I...talk to you for a second?"

He was still trying to process the fact that I was standing in front of his house. He peered out the door and gave the road a once over. "You...how did you get here? I don't see a car."

"Oh uh, Triton here gave me a ride." I gestured to Triton, who nodded his head at Mr. Chase.

He looked at Triton and whispered his name like he was trying to discern whether that was some kind of Greek name. When he recognized it, Mr. Chase nodded. "Ah, well...alright then, come in."

"Stay here." I told Triton, "And don't do anything weird."

"Define weird."

"Just don't move!"

I turned away from him and nervously walked to the door. I was internally glad that Triton didn't say anything about me throwing his name out there casually. He must've thought all mortals knew about the gods and what not, since he's probably centuries old, and stuck in the past. Well, hard to keep track of everything when you live underwater, I guess.

I walked in the door, and immediately felt cozy. It reminded me of the first time I walked into Mr. Chase's home, the one in San Francisco. There had been toys laid out everywhere, and his kids had been playing on the floor. Annabeth's half-brothers.

Well now things were a bit different. Instead of toys being laid out, and the two brothers being little, they had grown up quite a bit, and were sitting on the couch, playing split screen on what looked like an Xbox.

"Go that way, Matthew!"

"No, you go that way! We already went through this, you distract him and I kill him!"

They were playing some third person shooter game, all colorful and wacky it seemed. Huh, weird. But I guess I can't judge, I've never really gotten into video games.

Mr. Chase motioned for the boys to get off the couch, "You two, in your rooms. I need to talk with Percy alone."

They lit up and looked at me, "Percy's here?!"

I waved at them and smiled, "Hey guys."

They dropped their controllers and ran over to me, holding out their hands for high fives. I obliged.

"Hey Percy! Annabeth said you guys were going to college! Is that true?!"

"Yeah, we've been going for a while now."

"School sucks! Why would you want to keep going?"

"I don't know, just seemed like a good idea."

"Can we see Riptide?! Is it really a pen that turns into a sword?!"

"Uh, maybe later guys. Probably shouldn't unsheathe it in the house-"

"Wanna play Xbox with us?!"

Mr. Chase grabbed both of them on the shoulder, "Alright you two, up to your rooms, now. I think Percy's had enough questions to last him the entire day."

They both simultaneously awed and trudged up to their rooms. When Mr. Chase heard them shut their door, he clapped me on the shoulder and led me to the couch.

"So, what did you want to talk about?"

We both sat down, but I didn't lean back. I kept my elbows on my knees and fidgeted with my fingers, I was so nervous.

"Well, nothing really. Actually er, that's not true. It's pretty important. Is...Mrs. Chase here? I kind of wanted to talk to both of you."

He raised an eyebrow at that but nodded. "Yes. She's in the kitchen making dinner, but I can call her in here." He turned his shoulders, "Honey! We have a visitor!"

"Who is it?" I heard from the kitchen, but before Mr. Chase could answer, Mrs. Chase already popped through the opening, smiling when she saw me. She was actually a pretty nice lady, despite what Annabeth used to say about her. I don't doubt that maybe their was some tension or maybe a misunderstanding between her and Annabeth when she was younger, but the two seem to be on good terms now.

"Hi, Percy." She said, "This is an unexpected surprise. What are you doing here? Did you drive all this way?"

"No, honey. Apparently, Triton did." Mr. Chase gave a curious nod, "Forgive me if I'm wrong, but isn't he also a Son of Poseidon?"

"Yes. And well, he didn't drive, he sort of- ah, you know, it doesn't matter." I fumbled, feeling my palms start to heat up at the fact I was here. I was actually here, and about to do this. No more planning, no more preparing, I was asking them. "I was going to drive down here, but he needed to talk to me about something, but we haven't yet, because I told him I needed to talk to you about something, so he took me here, and he's outside waiting for us to talk, while we're talking in here-"

Mrs. Chase sat down next to Mr. Chase, and put a comforting hand over mine, "Are you alright? You look like you're burning up."

"Get him some water, honey."

I gave a dismissive wave, "Oh no, no, that's okay. Really, I'm fine. I'm just really nervous, that's all."

"Why on Earth would you be nervous?" Mr. Chase asked, almost offended. "Percy, you're like family to us. Whatever it is you need to talk about, we'll listen. Just take a deep breath and let it out."

I was breathing pretty heavily now that I noticed. "Take a deep breath and let it out?"

He nodded, "Take a deep breath and let it out."

I did what he said and took some deep breaths. Eventually calming down enough to where I stopped sweating and freaking out on the inside. The comment about me being like family to them made me feel a little better too. I mean, what could go wrong here? They were nice, and even if they didn't give me permission, they'd do it in a polite way. I had nothing to worry about.

"That...worked. I feel a lot better now."

"Good. Now what was it you wanted to tell us?"

They sat patiently, looking at me with awaiting eyes. This was it, the moment of truth.

I let out a final exhale and mustered the courage to look Mr. Chase in the eye. With a clear voice, I said, "Mr. Chase, I've been thinking about it for a long time, and I'm finally ready to take the next step with Annabeth. She's...everything to me, I wouldn't be where I am without her. I love her so much, and if it's okay with you...I'd like to ask her to marry me."

There was a moment's delay. Mr. Chase's eyes widened a little in shock. He put his hand to his chin, and thought for a second, then looked at Mrs. Chase, who just smiled and nodded.

"You...want to marry Annabeth?"

"Yes sir, I do. I'm serious about this, and I want it more than anything in the world."

He studied me, and for a second, I thought he was about to say no and tell me to leave his house. But that second fleeted when he slowly smiled ear to ear and pulled me into a hug.

I was a little taken back, but I returned the hug.

"Of course you can." He said, "You have my blessing."

I backed away, surprised. "Wait, you're serious? You're okay with it?"

He nodded, and I could see that his eyes were getting watery. "I'm very okay with it. You're a great man Percy. I can't think of anyone else I'd want my daughter to be with for the rest of her life."

I couldn't help but grin. He actually said yes! I mean, I kind of expected it, over the godly parents of course, but just hearing it made me feel giddy inside. I was slowly making my way up the ladder, telling people and getting ready for the big event. It was exciting.

"I always knew they would end up together." Mrs. Chase said, smiling widely at me. "When she came home for the first time in years, all she could talk about was some boy she met at summer camp. Who knew that some boy would turn out to be her husband!"

I blushed and scratched my neck, "Well, that's only if she says yes."

"She'll say yes." Mr. Chase assured. "I never thought Annabeth would become boy crazy, but believe me, she has it hard for you."

"Thank you both." I said gratefully. "I really appreciate this." A thought hit my mind and I did a double take, "Oh! And um, sorry I don't have a ring. I'm still kind of working on that, haven't picked out one yet."

Mr. Chase shook his head, "Don't worry. You take as long as you need. Only ask her when you're good and ready."

"I will, sir."

I didn't expect it to be that quick at all, but it was. Just like that, they knew, and I had permission. It made me feel so warm and fuzzy inside, I loved it.

When we all got up, Mrs. Chase gestured to the kitchen, "Would you like something for the road? I can put something in a container for you."

"Oh, no thank you. I'm full, and I'm with my half brother, so I should get going."

Mr. Chase walked me to the door and opened it, I walked outside and we exchanged waves.

"Thanks again, sir. I'll keep you updated."

"Alright, Percy. You stay safe!"

With that, he closed the door, and I walked down the small driveway to where Triton was standing, unmoved.

"That was fast. Did you get his blessing?"

I grinned goofily, "Sure did."

It may have just been a trick of the evening air, but I thought I saw Triton's lip nearly upturn. "That's good. So you're finished, then?"

"Yeah, we can talk now."

"Good. In that case, I'm going to be upfront and straight to the point." His gaze turned grim, "Oceanus is going to win this war."

After he spoke the words, the air seemed to get a few degrees colder, with the wind blowing on cue, making it seem downright freezing out here. The sunset darkened behind him as he said the name Oceanus. Names held power, especially now.

"What do you mean? Why?"

"Because Father is convinced of it. With many of his forces missing and dead, Mother nowhere to be found, and Oceanus with much more power than he's ever had, things look grim. Father is not in his right mind, and he's losing sight of what needs to be done."

"And...what needs to be done?"

"I've been travelling the ocean and talking to old allies of mine. Word has it that Oceanus still has many of our men, held captive, along with...mother. We need to rescue them, gather our available forces, and deliver a strike to the titan."

"That sounds like a good idea." I said, "But why would Dad say no to the rescue mission? Doesn't he want Amphitrite and his forces back?"

"He does." Triton grumbled, "But he says it's too risky, and that we don't know for sure if they are actually there. The other reason is..."

He trailed off, and broke his stare. He was holding something back.

"What? What's the other reason?"

"I suggested that we grant your request, and train you. That way you could help us fight, and we could go on the rescue mission together."

He pointed at himself and me. I'll admit, I was shocked at his statement, but excited at the same time. This is exactly what I wanted, I wanted to help, I wanted to get back in the fight. If things were going to be this way, I'm not just going to sit by and do nothing like a helpless little kid.

"That sounds great." I said, "But he didn't want that?"

"No. He doesn't want you getting hurt."

"Figures." I said, a little annoyed. But I couldn't be too mad, he's just doing what any parent would do. He was worried about me. I raised an eyebrow at Triton, "So you suggested it? Why? I thought you didn't want me involved either."

He looked like he didn't want to admit what he was about to say, but I cornered him into it. He sighed, "At first, I didn't, but now I realize that you are an asset, and you have potential. You already have experience, and great accomplishments. If you were to receive Atlantic training, you could become a lethal threat to very powerful beings, not just monsters."

"You mean like my aura?"

He nodded, "Among other things."

It all sounded great, but Dad didn't want me to do it, so how would I?

"I would train you." He declared, probably reading my mind. "At least, for a while. Father will find out eventually, but until he does, I will show you a few things that can help you out. Basic Atlantic techniques."

I had to admit, Triton wasn't as annoying as he used to be, and I was kind of starting to like him. Kind of. He was a god himself, and Dad's right-hand man. Training from him, even if a small amount, could make me far stronger than what I am right now.

I straightened myself and looked him in the eye. "When do we get started?"

He smirked at my tone and enthusiasm. "Right now, of course."

I didn't even have time to react. He grabbed my arm, and in an instant, we were in a kaleidoscope of colors, shapes, and streaks of neon. My stomach got queasy again, and my eyes started burning. I was looking at something...incredible. It was like moving through time and space itself, and it was incredible.

The shapes of reality, I can't really describe them. Just imagine everything known to man, in one tunnel.

But as soon as it started, it stopped, and I was on the ground.

In sand.

I plopped face first into sand and felt some get in my mouth. I pushed myself up and spat it all out, having to even wipe my tongue to get it all off.

Wherever we were, it was bright, and hot. It took a moment for my eyes to take in everything and adjust to the brightness of the now towering sun. It was obviously some different time zone or country, because in Virginia, the sun was setting.

"Stand up." Triton ordered, "Cover your eyes with your hands for a minute. It will allow them to adjust."

I stood up with shaky legs and did what he said. I closed my eyes and covered my hands over them. In my head I counted up to sixty seconds, and let go. Just as he said, they were perfectly adjusted.

We weren't in Virginia anymore.

Before me, was one of the most massive things I'd ever seen. But it wasn't a monster, or a god, or anything supernatural. It was the desert. We were in the middle of it, it seemed. For miles upon miles, we were surrounded by nothing but orange sand and tall dunes. The one we were standing on though, was the tallest. It had to have been ninety degrees out here, as the sun was high in the sky, and I was already sweating bullets.

I looked around at the gigantic landscape, finding absolutely no end in sight. What...were we doing out here? When I heard Atlantic training, I thought of the sea, the water, or even sand on a beach. Definitely not the opposite.

I turned to Triton, who stood opposite of me on the dune. "Wh-where are we?"

He smirked and spread his hands out to his side. "Welcome to the Sahara, brother. Your training is about to begin."

(000)

Okay, I had a lot of fun with that one. Writing the tension between Percy, Annabeth, and the Camp was really exciting, and the interactions between Percy and Triton were very cool. I can't wait to further their relationship.

Also, if you can't tell, Percabeth is my favorite ship, ever. Hope I'm doing it justice in this story.

Stay tuned, because we're not even close to the destination yet.

Until Next Time.