LAST TIME

"Yeah," I nodded. "Top secret. This doesn't go outside us three and Annabeth. Am I understood?"

"Totally." Malcolm nodded. "But we cannot stop there."

"Of course, we can't," I said. "The Titan Lord didn't wait for some four-five thousand years to be foiled by broken bridges and collapsed tunnels. We would be in for the fight of our lives when it takes place. The last time a Great Prophecy came to pass, it was World War Two. This is similar, but much more divine."

"Well, ain't we special?" Clarisse said sarcastically.

I smiled.

"Well, Clarisse, there is a reason why demigods are called heroes. And it is when the villains are the baddest, the strongest heroes emerge."

"I like that," Malcolm grinned. "But we seriously need to figure more stuff out, guys. We are eighty demigods or so now. Add in the hunters, we are a good hundred. A hundred and fifty with the Satyrs, maybe two hundred with the nature spirits."

"That's not enough," Clarisse said. "We would be facing armies of monsters and not to mention, Titans. We cannot win by playing fair."

"This is war, Malcolm. Fair is not a word in war."

Ch. 43 The Fifteenth Birthday

The golden hands crawled forward, ticking closer to four in the afternoon.

"You aren't already bored of me, are you, Percy?" Paul grinned from the driving seat as he weaved through the Manhattan traffic.

"Nothing like that," I shook my head. "I just hate traffic."

"Tell me if you get bored," Paul glanced at me. "I know Sally said it would be good for us— but if you are not liking it, we can turn back."

'In all actuality we should,' I told Alexander. 'But my mom told me to go with it.'

#Don't be this grumpy.# Alexander said. #It shows on your face.#

"You're taking me to see the fencers' club," I said out loud. "Nothing like that, is there?"

"Yeah," Paul nodded. "We have had many Olympic champions in the past. A lot of state champions and national champions are amongst us currently. Rumor is that a couple might even represent the U.S. at the next Olympics."

"Interesting," I commented half-heartedly.

Now, don't get me wrong. But my mom's boyfriend was taking me to a fencing club. A place where the people made a sport of sword fighting— a fight with rules, done for entertainment rather than training. Even with it bearing several champions of what-not tournaments, including the Olympics, I could probably wipe them all off in minutes.

After all, I doubted if any of them had wielded a sword to save their lives. Or learnt sword fighting from the god of swordsmanship. Or regularly faced Titans and monsters from the myths.

'Maybe I should get in,' I told Alexander. 'Get a shot at winning a gold at the Olympics. Maybe I can get one for swimming as well. With all the sub-categories, I could get about fifteen-twenty golds for the US. Maybe even set a few world records.'

#It would be massively unfair to each and every one of your opponents,# Alexander snorted. #But I don't see why we can't do it. A little mist here and there, and you will be in.#

"I was a state champion myself, you know?" Paul said, drawing my attention. "Won it twice. Your mom said you do some fencing yourself and are pretty good at it."

"I am decent," I commented.

"So, I hear you learn this at the private school you go to," Paul shifted the topic. "Sally said they teach you all kinds of things there— horse riding, fencing, archery, Ancient Greek and what not."

I smiled. Trust my mom to lie without lying.

"It is fun," I said. "I suck at archery though, but I have several friends who excel at it. We even call one the goddess of archery."

"Really?" Paul's voice got a sliver of interest in it. "What's her name?"

"Artemis."

"You're kidding," Paul guffawed.

"Not one bit."

"Then the name does make sense," Paul grinned. "Anything else I should know about her."

"She has a penchant of turning annoying males into animals," I stated with a straight face.

Paul laughed loudly at that.

"You know your mythology, don't you?" Paul grinned. "Good man. Everyone should take their studies seriously."

I just nodded and we rode in silence for a few minutes until Paul cleared his throat loudly.

"Yes?" I asked.

"Well," Paul hesitated. "Your mom told me that your fifteenth birthday is approaching."

"So?"

"Well, um, I thought that we should celebrate it," he said. "Invite over your friends. Have some cake. Party games. And all of it. It is not everyday that a young man turns fifteen."

"You could say that for every birthday," I commented. "And every other day of the year."

"Yes, yes, of course," Paul nodded, his fingers drumming over the steering wheel. "But it is just a suggestion. If you want to celebrate your birthday, we can hold a small party at the apartment."

I contemplated the idea.

The end of summer had not been the greatest for the camp this year. All of us had lost a friend or more. Too many campers had been martyred during the Battle of the Labyrinth as the gods had called it.

Even some of the gods were distraught over the loss of their children— or in case of Artemis, her hunters.

Artemis had taken her hunt to what she did best. Hunt.

And every monster on the East Coast had felt her wrath. She had systematically demolished the ranks of monsters, at times, killing more monsters than me and the hunt combined.

In times like this, throwing a party would seem insensitive.

'But then again, it might be the last one I ever throw,' I mused.

#Don't say that.# Alexander cut in harshly. #I didn't spend seven years training you only for you to die in the end. You will win Percy. And live to tell the tale. You have killed Titans before. This is just another Titan.#

"I think it would be a great idea," I told Paul.

"Great," Paul beamed. "You can call as many friends as you want. Just tell us how many so we can make arrangements accordingly."

"Of course," I nodded as Paul parked his Prius outside a building.

"This is the oldest fencing club in the whole Western Hemisphere, Percy," Paul said as we walked in.

I listened to him with half an ear, as he went off, rambling facts about the club.

"—And this is Naomi," Paul said as we stopped next to a dark skinned, short woman. "Naomi, this is Percy. Sally's son."

"Hey man," she grinned. "Nice to meet you."

"Nice to meet you too," I nodded.

"She was the state champion last year," Paul said. "And is going to play the nationals in two months. One of our best fencers, really."

"You flatter me, Paul," She grinned.

"It's all true," He thumped my back. "Percy here is good at fencing or so I am told."

"Really?" She cast a glance over me. "He does have a good body for it."

"I swim, thank you," I said nonchalantly. "But you should get back to practice. I really don't want to disturb you."

"Nonsense," she waved me off. "I would always be happy to entertain a friend of Paul's. Go on. Get dressed. Ask Ross for a spare suit."

"Right," I said slowly.

A few minutes later, I returned, dressed in a fencing uniform and picked a saber from a nearby rack.

'A terrible balance,' I gave it a swing. 'But it will do.'

#You just need to touch the tip to her chest or neck. #

I walked to the piste where Paul and Naomi were standing, my helmet held in my arm.

"A saber," Naomi grinned, holding her own up. "Let's play, shall we? Paul, you are the referee."

Paul grinned at me and stood at the side of the piste.

"En Garde!" Paul said loudly.

Naomi put her helmet on and I quietly replicated what she was doing. A moment later, she gave me a salute, which I returned.

"Ready?" Paul asked as we took our stance. "Fence!"

Naomi instantly went on the offensive, but I slapped the blade away almost lazily, thrusting mine toward her chest.

Naomi stepped back, avoiding the jab and swinging the sword toward my neck.

I blocked the strike again, pushing her back.

Our swords clanged once more as Naomi unleashed a rapid series of thrusts and slashes. I parried each and every of her moves, jabbing the saber at her occasionally.

I raised my eyebrows as the woman flipped back from one of my slashes, before thrusting again.

I deflected the strike with the pommel, swinging the blade.

Naomi, did a flip and went sideways, avoiding it.

I had to give this to her. The girl fought with theatrics to impress Zeus himself.

#Keep playing around, Percy,# Alexander said. #A few seconds more at least. It should look natural.#

I blocked another slash from Naomi's saber. Taking a step back, I deflected another.

As she thrust her saber for the third time, I went down on a knee, avoiding the blade entirely and thrusting my own at her neck.

Naomi froze in her movements as soon as the tip touched her neck.

"Point, Percy." Paul announced, sounding impressed.

I stood up, backing a step away and holding my sword in a stance like Naomi's.

Why? Because I didn't actually have a 'stance' of my own. I was used to fighting in the moment, while using a real sword— One capable of killing gods.

At Paul's gesture, Naomi charged again. I was tempted to just disarm her and be done with it. But I deflected the strike instead.

Naomi launched into a series of slashes, trying to get through my guard. Her strikes this time were sharper, faster, and much more precise than they had been in the first round.

#She is good for a mortal# Alexander commented. #She could defeat a handful of demigods from the camp in a swordfight. And give a fair fight to quite a few.#

'Most children of Apollo, maybe.' I told Alexander as I deflected two rapid slashes from Naomi. 'And those from the Aphrodite cabin who never train. But many who are bad at sword fighting are great at archery or spears. And in a straight fight for their lives, the demigods will still win.'

#That's because you all are hard-wired for that kind of stuff.# Alexander reminded as I blocked a strike. #Had she been a demigod, she would've been much like Clarisse.#

'Sherman, at the most,' I argued, blocking a thrust from her. 'Maybe Silena or Katie. They're both good with a sword.'

#True. Clarisse is really good now since you trained her.# Alexander conceded. #If she gets the blessing of Ares or gets a real good hang of summoning his powers, she will be a very dangerous opponent in battle. Enough to take down someone like Thalia or Zoe.#

'Really?' I ducked under a swing of Naomi's saber. 'Even with their powers?'

#Yep. The blessing of Ares will make her invincible.# Alexander said. #And very high on energy. Most will tire out before she even becomes breathless. A child of Ares bathed in a red glow and having red eyes is not someone you mess with. Even for you.#

'Right,' I said. 'Don't make Clarisse mad at me. At least not enough to get her red.'

As Naomi twirled around and bought her sword down on me, I slashed my own.

Naomi's saber clatter to the ground. I pointed my sword at her chest to complete.

"Game, Percy," Paul blinked.

"Damn, kid," Naomi removed her helmet. "You are good."

"Thank you," I said. "You're good too, ma'am."

"You cleaned me out kid," she shook her head. "Where did you learn to fence like that?"

"At school," I removed my helmet. "This was fun."

Naomi beamed.

That was when I felt it. A very peculiar presence.

The presence of a god. A powerful god.

I turned around to see a blonde man leaning against the doorframe. The man grinned blindingly at me.

#Well, it looks like work calls.# Alexander said.

'More like a crisis.' I thought dryly

"I think I see someone I know," I handed the saber to Paul. "Excuse me please."

I walked toward the god with a frown.

"Percy!" His grin seemingly widened. "Fencing in a mortal establishment, I see. Are you planning on playing for the US? If you do, tell me. I will bet massively on you winning."

"Apollo," I said. "Why are you here?"

"Ouch," Apollo clutched his chest dramatically. "Are you so—"

"Apollo."

"Okay, fine," he huffed. "I have a task for you."

"Does it involve us flying over the U.S. firing at target boards?" I asked dryly.

"Not today," He grinned. "But if you're up for it later—"

I narrowed my eyes and he stopped.

"Right. We might have a slight problem." Apollo cleared his throat. "I am not sure when exactly it will happen but it will take place before dawn tomorrow. Staten Island— the area touching the New York Bay is about to be attacked by Katoblepones."

"I am sorry, what now?" I tilted my head.

"Katoblepones," Apollo repeated. "They look like cows but are the size of an elephant with really big horns. Their breath is poisonous and they almost overran Rome a few centuries ago."

"Right," I said. "And you want me to kill them off?"

"Zeus has tasked Artemis and you to protect Staten Island," Apollo said. "The hunt has another mission to hunt down rogue wind spirits in DC."

"Led by Thalia," I deduced.

"I guess," Apollo shrugged. "She is his daughter, and has control over the winds and stuff. So it makes sense. Anyhow, we need you urgently."

"Alright," I sighed. "I will need to inform Paul that I have work or make something up."

Apollo grinned, snapping his fingers. A wind ripped through the area.

"Taken care of," Apollo gave a bow to an imaginary audience. "Anyhow, now I need to send you to Artemis. Ta!"

Before I could say anything, I felt the world twist around myself, bright golden light searing my eyes.

A moment later, I crashed into something solid. Pain shot through my torso as something beneath me snapped.

I fell a few feet, crashing through things I couldn't quite place.

Then, I hit something very solid. A very solid body, decidedly female; as she gave a painful yelp below me and pain flared in my ribs.

A few moments later, the smell of cinnamon and the forest floor filled my nostrils as my senses began to return.

And I was lying on someone.

A goddess to be precise.

"Percy?" Artemis's sharp voice had me blinking my eyes open.

"Damn Apollo," I muttered as Artemis's face swam into view, bathed in blinding lights.

I rolled off her, rubbing my eyes.

My ears rang and my head spun.

"What the hell, Percy?" Artemis asked.

"Blame your brother," I ground out. "I still cannot see properly."

A moment later, my vision miraculously cleared and I saw Artemis lying beside me on the floor.

She was heaving heavily, her face flushed.

"What happened?" I asked.

#You crashed into her.# Alexander said. #Painfully.#

"You crashed into me," Artemis wheezed. "And we fell off a tree. You are heavier than you look."

"Sorry," I murmured. "I didn't even have time to comprehend when he sent me here."

"Why did he send you here?" Artemis sat up, swaying slightly.

"Oh, Staten Island is about to be overrun by—" I frowned, trying to remember the name.

#Katoblepones# Alexander prompted.

"Katoblepones," I repeated. "Apollo said they're big bulls with poisonous breath."

"I know," Artemis slowly got to her feet, dusting her clothes. "I will gather my hunt."

"Oh, no. They need to get to DC." I wheezed, remembering Apollo's words. "Rogue wind spirits or something."

"Oh, not again," Artemis groaned, helping me up. "You alright?"

"Sort of," I said. "My head is still spinning."

"Forced teleportation is bad," Artemis laughed. "My brother makes it all the more worse by adding sunlight to it."

"That explains why I feel like my clothes were just ironed," I shrugged. "But not how my fencing uniform disappeared."

"Right," Artemis huffed. "I will have a word with him about throwing you at me."

"Yes, but I think we should go to Staten Island first," I reminded. "And send the hunt to Washington DC."

"Yeah," Artemis nodded. "Zoe is going to be pissed."

"I sense a story here," I frowned.

"Don't ask," Artemis waved off. "But Zoe hates wind spirits. So does Phoebe."

"Bad experience?" I winced.

Zoe had been hunting alongside Artemis for more than two millennia. If something had pissed her off, I didn't want to even think about what had happened.

"Very bad," Artemis shook her head. "Let's get going. As Apollo has delivered the message, he probably has had one of his visions. And if we don't stop it, something BAD is going to happen. Or they won't be sending us."

PERCY POV

A soft wind tugged at my jacket as I rubbed my temples. The New York Bay stretched in front of me, an orange ferry swimming past us.

"I hate teleportation," I decided. "I much prefer my mist travel."

"It is different when done under your own power," Artemis tucked her hair behind her ears with a grin. "If you learn to teleport other people with the mist, you would say the same."

"Right, of course," I cracked my fingers. "Now, where are those bulls?"

"They're closer to cows, technically," Artemis said. "But they're a whole different species, so no point, really."

"Right. And where are they?" I asked.

Artemis knelt to the floor to touch the tarmac. A moment later, I shivered as power spread like a halo over the city.

"Nowhere," Artemis stood up a few moments later. "There are a couple of scores of monsters around, but none to be too concerned about."

"Apollo said they'll attack before dawn." I frowned. "And as they can overrun a city, it means—"

"They do come in hordes," Artemis sighed. "And they breed as fast as rabbits. Thankfully, they are easy to kill from a distance. One well aimed arrow is all it takes."

"I will use my guns and knives then," I shrugged. "Or fireballs. Everything works."

Artemis smiled before looking around. "Well, what do we do till then?"

"Err…" I hesitated. "Sightseeing?"

Artemis shrugged. "Why not?"

I felt a grin curl up on my face.

"Let me set up a few nymphs and dryads on the lookout," Artemis walked to a nearby tree. "If the Katoblepones show up, we will know immediately."

"Cool," I said. "I will arrange for a ride for us."

I removed a box from my pocket. Placing it on the ground, I pressed a button before backing away.

The box de-shrunk from pocket-mode into my Aston Martin, ready to be used.

I turned to look at Artemis, who was talking to a tree.

Shaking my head, I got into the driving seat and started the engine.

"Phoenix, get me a list of places to sightsee in Staten Island."

A list popped up on the screen as Artemis opened the door and got in.

"What's up?" She asked.

"Just seeing where we can go," I shrugged. "I have never really been sightseeing except for school trips. Also, I have no idea what to sightsee in New York. It is all buildings and of course, the Statue of Liberty but you have to take a ferry."

"How about we get a coffee?" Artemis asked. "With something nice to eat and camp out? I don't really want to sightsee in New York. It is all buildings, as you said."

"True," I nodded. "Set course to the nearest Starbucks, Phoenix."

"Yes, sir," the AI said and the car began to move on its own.

"So," Artemis said as the car moved through the streets. "How was the last week of the camp?"

"The same old. End of the camp ceremony took place with fireworks on the beach and stuff." I shrugged. "Ares cabin won the last capture of the flag. Hephaestus' cabin got the chariot race. And we all got a new bead."

I pulled out my Camp necklace, containing three beads now, representing my three summers at camp—a trident, the Golden Fleece, and the latest: an intricate maze, symbolizing the Battle of the Labyrinth.

"Are those…" Artemis squinted, leaning forward. "Names?"

"Yeah," I nodded. "Name of those who fell. You can read them?"

"Not exactly, but I can make out a few of the letters," she said. "It's nice."

I put the necklace back as the car stopped at a red light.

"How're things on Olympus?" I asked.

"Tense," she leaned back on the seat. "Many minor gods have turned against Olympus. Morpheus, Hecate, Janus… Zeus knows how many more."

Thunder rumbled in the sky, making Artemis look up.

"Okay, not even he knows all of them," She sighed. "But yes. Things are bad. Someone would think that they would at least be scared of you."

"Me?" I raised my eyebrow.

"You are the child of the prophecy," Artemis said. "The whole council knows there is no one else we did trust more to have that responsibility. And, you have already killed more Titans than the majority of the council put together."

"That's because you never faced the Titans. You were all born in the era of gods." I said. "Well, except the Elder Olympians of course."

"That doesn't excuse the fact that it is true," Artemis shrugged. "Believe me, had it not been for the war, you would've gained godhood the day you rescued me from Othrys."

I shrugged uncomfortably.

Godhood was not something I desired. Not really and at least, not now. But I had dedicated a huge part of my life to Olympus.

Still, seeing my friends— at least the demigod ones die and be helpless due to the Ancient Laws was not something I desired.

#Maybe you can become an immortal hero. I think that may not be far with your current biology. What you will need is a slight push though.#

"I don't want to become a god," I told Artemis. "At least, not like Ares or Athena. Maybe, like you… with leeway from the Ancient Laws. Or just, you know? Immortal but still demigod."

"So you can still fight," Artemis smiled softly. "And don't have to watch helplessly as your friends die."

"Yeah," I nodded. "You gods have way too many restrictions. The sea doesn't like to be restrained."

Artemis chuckled as we stopped in front of a Starbucks.

"I will get us coffee," I said. "Frappe for you, right?"

Artemis just smiled in response.

PERCY POV

Two days after Artemis and my 'Katoblepones' killing expedition, it was my birthday.

Our hunt had gone well, as we had eliminated nearly hundred of the horrendous monsters within half an hour.

It had turned out to be a diversion as several forges of Hephaestus had been attacked by the Titan forces. Some had been successfully defended against by the creations of the god. But six had been ransacked thoroughly.

"Hephaestus says it is nothing to be too worried about," Hestia informed me, sipping on a Pepsi. "But he is angry at the Titans for destroying his creations."

"Still many weapons were taken," I pointed out. "Most were enchanted."

"They were his pastime creations," Hestia shrugged. "He can fashion a sword in seconds, Percy. A minute if he wants to make it a little special. His true projects are all on Olympus or with him. Nothing important, or dangerous was taken."

I hummed.

The doorbell rang, and my mom answered.

"Mrs. Jackson!" Tyson's voice boomed. "It is so nice to see you again."

I got up to greet him, only to see him standing with another figure at the door.

Kymopoleia gave me a wave from behind Tyson.

"Welcome, Tyson. And you must be…" my mom trailed off, looking at Kym.

"Kymopoleia," she said. "You must be Percy's mom."

"Oh, I have heard all about you, dear," my mom beamed. "Come in."

It was all Tyson needed to hear as he barreled past her, engulfing me into a crushing hug.

"Easy, big guy," I wheezed as my ribs protested.

"Happy Birthday Percy!" He yelled, spinning me around like a doll.

"Yeah, thanks," I said, wrenching myself away from the hug.

I took a deep breath as blood pounded in my ears.

At times, Tyson forgot he was a cyclops and had super strength.

"Hey Percy," Kymopoleia said, peering at me through her luminous locks. "Happy birthday."

"Thanks," I smiled. "Can't believe you actually came."

Kymopoleia fiddled with her thumbs, giving me a smile.

"Kymopoleia! It has been years since I saw you!" Hestia emerged from the kitchen. "How have you been, dear."

Kymopoleia blinked, gulping involuntarily as she saw who it was.

"L-Lady Hestia. I— I am good," She said. "How— how do you do?"

"I am doing brilliantly," Hestia beamed. "No need to be nervous, dear. And please, call me Hestia."

I gave an encouraging nod to Kymopoleia, who had looked at me for guidance.

She slowly moved to go with Hestia, leaving me alone with Tyson.

"Let's join—" I stopped as the bell rang again. "That's probably Artemis."

I opened the door to find Artemis standing outside with Thalia and Annabeth.

"Happy birthday, Kelp Head," Thalia and Annabeth grinned, holding up a box.

"Thanks," I said. "Come in, guys."

"Happy birthday, Percy," Artemis said softly as Thalia and Annabeth disappeared into the kitchen.

"Well, welcome to my home," I said.

"I have been here," Artemis said. "I have met your mom."

"Really?" I blinked. "When?"

"The Saint Helens incident. We needed a way to contact Rachel Dare."

"Ah," I nodded. "That explains it. Come on in."

Together we went in.

Tyson was blowing up the balloons with Annabeth and Thalia.

Hestia was helping my mom with the food, while Kymopoleia sat awkwardly at the table.

She rose as soon as she saw Artemis, bowing. "Lady Artemis."

Even Tyson blinked his one huge eye before getting up on a knee.

"Please," Artemis waved them off. "This is a celebration. I am here as Percy's friend."

Kymopoleia nodded, sitting back down.

"Percy," My mom called. "Call Paul and ask if he got the cake yet!"

"Yeah," I said, moving to the telephone and dialing Paul. But the man didn't pick up.

"He is not picking, mom," I replied. "Probably driving."

"Alright guys," I put the receiver down. "My mom's boyfriend is coming over and he doesn't know about the godly stuff. I do not want it to be a very awkward birthday."

"We can just manipulate the mist if we slip up," Annabeth suggested. "Faster, you know?"

I rolled my eyes but didn't say anything.

"Where's Grover?" Thalia asked.

"He's coming," I tilted my head. "Also, those are way too many balloons."

"They are for the game," my mom replied from the kitchen as the smell of cookies wafted through the house.

"Those smell heavenly," Thalia said.

Behind her, Kymopoleia nodded.

That was when the doorbell rang.

Grover and Paul stood at the door, holding a huge box.

"Let me get that," I said, effortlessly lifting the cake and putting it on the kitchen table.

"Oh, hello," Paul said behind me. "You all must be Percy's friends. Grover said he was running late already."

"Yes," I said. "Artemis, Thalia, Annabeth, and Kymopoleia. That's Aunt Hestia."

"Strange," Paul said. "A lot of you have very Greek names… Like Percy— Perseus."

"Well, coincidences. Or maybe not." I shrugged. "Many of our dads are the alumni of the school I go to. It has a very heavy influence of Greek culture, you see?"

"So, your dad wanted you to go there?" Paul frowned.

"Yes, he did." I replied, glancing at Thalia and Annabeth who were keeping a straight face.

"Enough talk," my mom cut in. "The cake's here. We should begin!"

I nodded, taking the diversion to cut open the box to reveal the cake beneath.

The words, 'Happy Birthday Percy' shone against the blue frosting of the cake.

"Let me get the candles," Hestia said.

Then, the doorbell rang.

My mom frowned. "Who could that be?"

I extended my senses, only to feel a powerful sea deity outside.

Before I could say anything, my mom opened the door and gasped.

It was my dad. He was wearing Bermuda shorts and a Hawaiian shirt and Birkenstocks, like he usually did. His black beard was neatly trimmed and his sea-green eyes twinkled. He wore a battered cap decorated with fishing lures. It said NEPTUNE'S LUCKY FISHING HAT.

"Pos—" My mother stopped herself. She was blushing right to the roots of her hair. "Um, hello."

"Hello, Sally," Poseidon said. "You look as beautiful as ever. May I come in?"

My mother made a squeaking sound that might've been either a "Yes" or "Help." Poseidon took it as a yes and came in.

Hestia and Artemis raised their eyebrows at him, while Kymopoleia's face turned to stone.

Poseidon shared a glance with each one of them, his face jovial as ever.

Paul was looking back and forth between us, trying to read our expressions. Finally he stepped forward.

"Hi, I'm Paul Blofis."

Poseidon raised his eyebrows as they shook hands. "Blowfish, did you say?"

"Ah, no. Blofis, actually," Paul corrected. "Percy made the same mistake."

My dad gave me a discreet wink.

"Oh, I see," Poseidon said. "A shame. I quite like blowfish. I am Poseidon."

"Like the Greek God of the sea?" Paul asked.

"Exactly," Poseidon grinned as I felt a salty tang in the air.

"Well!" My mom interrupted. "Um, we're so glad you could drop by. Paul, this is Percy's father."

"Ah." Paul nodded, though he didn't look real pleased. "I see."

Poseidon turned to me. "There you are, Percy! If this were Sparta, you would be a man today."

"That's true," Paul said. "I used to teach ancient history."

Poseidon's eyes twinkled. "That's me. Ancient history. Sally… would you mind if I borrowed Percy for a moment?"

He put his arm around me and steered me out of the kitchen without waiting for an answer.

With a snap of his fingers, I felt magic encase us.

He turned to me, a slight smile on his face.

"How are you, Percy?" He asked.

"Good," I smiled. "I… didn't really expect you to come for my birthday."

Poseidon's smile wavered, his eyes turning sad. "I would wish you a happy birthday, Percy. But whenever I think about it, my thoughts go to the prophecy."

"This time, next year, the fate of Olympus would've likely been decided, for better or for worse." I felt like a sharp knife was tugging at my heart.

Poseidon laid a hand over my shoulder. "I could never be prouder, Percy. What you've done— At this point, I cannot put it in words of how proud I am of you."

"That means a lot," I smiled.

"I have faith in you, Percy," He said. "Don't doubt yourself. There is no one even Zeus would trust more if the fate of Olympus hung in the balance."

I nodded. Artemis had told me the same thing.

Everyone kept telling me the same thing.

"You're a good kid, Percy," Poseidon continued. "Even a greater hero."

I nodded quietly.

Silence ensued for a moment before I cleared my throat.

"Dad, I…" I hesitated. "I have told the council about Luke. He has bathed in the Styx. Is there anyway—"

"The only weakness of the curse of Achilles is the mortal spot of the body," Poseidon answered before I could complete. "The Achilles heel, as it is called. It is a very powerful blessing— or a curse, Percy. Even something like my brother's master bolt won't kill the boy. Not directly."

"But he can be injured, right?" I asked.

"Not really, son," Poseidon grimaced. "But, what my father has done is, well, never happened before. A mortal shell, even one with the power of Styx, cannot house a foreign being of such power in its entirety. It will overwhelm the shell sooner or later."

"You mean…"

"There is a pretty good chance that Luke's body will be burned to ashes when my father returns to full power." Poseidon confirmed.

"Then it will be easier to kill him," I said. "Behead him like the other Titans. Simple."

Poseidon shook his head. "Percy, pray that he never gets a true form. Even we both will have difficulty defending ourselves against someone like him at full power. Try to find a way to kill Luke before the titan lord emerges, Percy."

#Oh, OH!# Alexander suddenly yelled in my head but didn't say anything further.

'What?' I asked.

#I will be away for some time, Percy. A few days.# He said urgently. #I need to confirm something.#

'Confirm what?' I asked.

#I might've found a way. A way to kill Kronos. But I need confirmation.#

I felt our connection break away. Alexander was still there, but not present, in a way.

"Anyhow," Poseidon said, drawing my attention. "I have come to you for something important."

"Yes?"

My father summoned his trident in response, making a sea breeze ruffle through the room.

"I need to connect you with my trident," He said.

"Connect— what?"

"My trident, Percy," My father grimaced. "The war beneath the ocean escalates. Oceanus is getting desperate now. And he will attack. In case we lose— or I die, the trident will come to you."

"Wait, why?" I exclaimed. "Shouldn't it go to Triton. Or Amphitrite?"

"Percy," my father said patiently. "The Trident represents the power of the sea. It holds the key to its absolute control. The rule of the sea. I cannot let this fall in Oceanus's hand under any circumstances. If I send it to you, Oceanus has a way less chance of controlling the ocean. He won't face you on land, Percy."

"If you need help I can come," I blurted. "I could—"

"You've done enough for Atlantis, Percy," Poseidon cut in. "Your work is here. Protecting Olympus. I cannot risk you."

"Then get Kymopoleia back!" I said. "You said she is a great fighter. You just have to say sorry."

"Maybe, I am counting on her to be away," Poseidon smiled mysteriously. "Please Percy. I will be at rest if I know the trident won't go to Oceanus if I lose."

I opened my mouth before closing it.

Here was my father, telling me that the command of the ocean would come to me in case he lost. Or worse.

He was preparing for the war.

For a very real possibility.

"What happens if I die too?" I asked softly. "The prophecy says it. The hero's soul, cursed blade shall reap. A single choice shall end his days."

"Prophecies are mysterious, Percy," Poseidon smiled sadly.

"But it is a very real possibility, isn't it?"

My father closed his eyes.

"Percy, if you lose to my father, the world is already doomed. Atlantis won't matter if Olympus falls. Please, do this. For me. Maybe this will be the last time we meet. Please don't say no."

I nodded, a tear rolling down my eye.

My father smiled sadly. "Hold the trident, Percy. I will do the spell."

I took the trident from his hand.

Suddenly, I felt a surge of power through my body. My senses opened and I understood what he meant by the command of the sea.

I could feel every ocean in the world. I could feel the waves. The creatures of the sea. Its vast, endless power. The power in every single drop of water.

I could sink islands with a thought. I could sink cities. I could cause a storm anywhere in the world.

Then, the feeling subsided to a gentle throb like the waves of the sea.

My father smiled and the trident disappeared from my hands.

"Intoxicating, isn't it?" He smiled. "Thank you, Percy."

He pulled me into a hug, patting my back.

"For all it is worth, I know you will win, my son," he whispered. "And remember. The sea will always be within you."

"Yes, father."

Poseidon broke the hug, looking at me sadly.

"If there is anything I can do to help, Percy, just say." He said. "We needed all we had to defeat my father. If you do, all you have to do is ask."

I smiled softly before removing my pendant.

"Please take this to Briares and the enchanters of the sea," I said. "If Luke is invulnerable, I will need all the protection I can get."

"You will get this back by the end of the week," Poseidon said. "The greatest armor possible. Anything to help you."

"Thank you," I said. "And for all its worth, I will win."

PERCY POV

Artemis sat on the ledge of the terrace, under the bright beams of moonlight peeking through the clouds.

The slight wind blew strands of her auburn hair onto her face. She looked over her shoulder as I approached, a soft smile curling onto her face.

"Hey," I held up the two plates of cake. "I thought you might want some cake."

She nodded slightly, taking a plate from my hands.

"Thanks," she brushed away a strand of hair, tucking it behind her ear. "Happy birthday once again."

I climbed onto the ledge beside her, glancing up at the starless sky. The only source of light over the terrace was the moon that shone, seemingly closer than ever.

"So," I said. "I thought you would be enjoying the party with everyone there. But instead here you are."

Artemis cut through the blue frosting and the green P of Percy, digging her spoon into the chocolate cake beneath.

"I— I just wanted some time alone," she spooned some cake into her mouth, her gaze distant.

"Are you missing them?" I asked softly. "Agnes, Katie, Sophia and Eurydice?"

She froze, her spoon dangling between her fingers.

"I—" She licked her lips. "You know? It was Katie who planned most parties in the hunt? She was the most… well—"

"I know," I said softly. "She was cheerful. Too cheerful, some might say. But well, she was a joy to be around."

A wistful smile curled on Artemis's face as she placed the plate of cake over the ledge.

"I miss them," she whispered. "All of them. I have lost many huntresses over the centuries. It never hurts any less."

"They were your family," I nodded. "Not exactly by blood. But still, family."

Artemis nodded shakily. "Sometimes, immortality feels like a burden. For mortals, all this ends when they die. And then, they start over. But us gods? We live with the burden. The pain."

A silver tear rolled down her cheek.

"My brother tells me they died for something greater than themselves," she stared into the sky. "And I should be proud of them. I am proud of them. But whenever I think of them—"

"It pains you," I nodded. "Like a fist curling around your heart."

Artemis nodded, wiping her tears.

"I am sorry," she gave a watery smile. "It is your birthday, and I am here, crying. I really shouldn't ruin it."

"Nah," I shook my head, putting my plate away. "You're doing nothing wrong. Plus, I did rather sit with a friend and talk than celebrate."

Artemis smiled, her gaze wandering back to the sky.

I slowly lifted her hand from the ledge and curled my fingers around hers. She glanced at me, squeezing my hand.

We sat in silence, our legs dangling over the edge.

"I am sorry," I said after a few minutes. "I shouldn't have thrown a party so soon but well—

Artemis frowned. "Well, what?"

"Well," I grimaced. "We might not be doing this next year."

Artemis froze, her eyes suddenly blazing.

"You're not going to die, Percy," she hissed. "Don't even think about it."

"Everyone knows it," I looked away from Artemis's penetrating silver eyes. "Most are just not ready to admit it yet."

"Don't say that," Artemis grabbed my chin and turned my head. "You have always defeated the odds, Percy. And this time, the odds are in our favor."

I gave out a slight laugh. "Many have told me this. My mom. My dad. Al— Athena. Hestia. All of them. But in the end, they all know that it is a possibility. The war is here, Artemis. And it rings through every domain. Some, a lot closer than the others."

"What do you mean?" Artemis frowned.

"My dad… he just did some spell over me. A spell that will send the trident to me in case he loses," I stared into her eyes. "Or worse. The possibility is very real, Artemis. And you know it deep down too."

Artemis looked away, her grip over my hand tightening.

Something lurched in my chest seeing her in such a state.

I scooted closer to her, gently tugging her shoulder, making her look into my eyes.

"Artemis," I whispered. "I promise I will do all I can to make sure that it doesn't happen. I will do everything in my power to see that my family survives. That I survive."

"And if you don't?" Artemis's eyes turned watery. "Haven't I lost enough?"

"Then perhaps these are the moments to remember me by," I wiped her eyes with my sleeve, giving her a grin. "And you're a goddess. You can always visit me in afterlife, I guess."

Artemis's grip over my hand tightened further, and I winced.

"Don't say that, Percy," her voice cracked. "You won't die. You will save Olympus. And you'll live. Maybe even one day, you will get married— have kids. But you won't die. I won't allow it."

I said nothing, touching my forehead to hers.

"I will try my best not to," I said, feeling Artemis's warm breath over my lips. "But if I do, I will always be grateful to have a friend in you."

There was no response for a moment.

Then, I felt a pair of lips press against mine. Soft fingers curled round the back of my head. The sweet taste of cake drifted onto my taste buds through my lower lip.

I melted into it, losing track of everything else around us.

A moment later, Artemis pulled back, her face flushed and her eyes wide.

"I— I am sorry," she murmured. "I shouldn't have done that."

Her body glowed silver and she melted away into the moonlight, leaving me alone on the terrace.

AND… DONE! I hope you all liked the chapter!

So… yeah. Pertemis begins!

I really hope you all liked it and I have justified the relationship enough! Next chapters will have more Percy-Artemis scenes and this is just the beginning. Let me know your thoughts in the reviews!

As for the monster hunt, I was going to write the scene, but decided against it. Percy killing horses of monsters has been seen enough. With Artemis, it would've been a clean thing without fuss.

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Fugy: The reveal is still a little away. But it will be there.

FrozenColt: The reason is simple. I am avoiding an over dependence on Alexander. But he will be important when it matters.

Perseus140 : yeah she did.

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That's all for now! Thank you for your reviews!

A huge thanks to Mughil and Nanu for betaing this chapter, that too at such last moment notice!

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I have also created a discord server with the help of my two very good friends. I really hope to see you all there and have fun with you all. There, you can communicate with me, ask me questions regarding my fics, look at the character images, get sneak peeks, give your own theories, and even... wait, why should I tell you everything here? Come over and check it all out yourself!

Discord Server Invite Link: discord . gg / 4qfP3fxdQ4 [Remove the spaces please]

I would love it if you guys came to my server and interacted with me there. If you have some of your own theory or wish to see something in this fic as the journey progresses, you can tell it to me on the discord server!

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As of this moment, I have six main stories. They are:

1. The Rise of the Last Potter: My Novel length Harry Potter fic which is already 300k+ words long and it is a work in progress. Updated Regularly.

2. The Legend of the Son of Poseidon: A Novel Length Percy Jackson fic which is already 250k+ words long and it is a work in progress. Updated Regularly

3. Loved Ones Skipping Stones and Ice-cream: A fluffy Haphne one-shot. It is completed obviously.

4. SECRETS: Another romantic one-shot I published recently. Complete as well.

5. Agent Potter: The Wizard of W.A.N.D. - My spy!Harry fanfic which I implore you all to read!

6. Guardian of the Soul: Infinity Saga – My newest fic. An HP–MCU crossover. Novel length, in progress.

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Stay Happy! Stay Safe! Keep Smiling! Keep Reading!

HPfanfictioner66