A.N all rights belong to Rick Riordan.

Gonna try a different format of the layout, let me know if you guys prefer the regular long paragraphs or this kind.

Ch.15

As dusk settled over the camp, Percy and Calypso disembarked from the raft with quiet steps, mindful not to draw attention to their arrival. Percy led the way, his hand outstretched to assist Calypso as she stepped onto the shore, taking her suitcase with a reassuring nod.

As they ascended the hill towards camp, Percy scanned the surroundings, surprised and unsettled by the absence of campers. Turning to Calypso, he whispered, "Hold onto your suitcase, I need my spear." Calypso nodded silently, taking the suitcase as Percy reached for his necklace, summoning his spear with practiced ease.

They proceeded cautiously through the camp, Percy's senses on high alert. Suddenly, he spotted smoke billowing from the amphitheater. Tension coiled in his chest as he approached, preparing for the worst.

However, as they drew closer, Percy's apprehension melted away. The campers were gathered around the amphitheater, solemnly burning a burial shroud. Percy's heart sank at the sight of the silver fabric, fearing it was a somber tribute to a fallen huntress

But then he noticed the distinct green trident emblazoned on the shroud, and realization dawned on him. His eyes widened in disbelief as he realized the shroud was for him.

Listening to Chiron's somber speech, Percy felt a heavy weight settle in his chest. "With no word from Percy or the gods, it's safe to assume he has passed. Lady Artemis kindly created a shroud for him," Chiron's words echoed in Percy's ears, each syllable carrying the weight of finality.

Percy glanced around the gathered campers, his heart aching as he saw Aurora sitting with Zoe, the two of them locked in a comforting embrace. Guilt gnawed at him as he realized the pain his absence had caused, knowing he had been gone for a week, leaving his friends and loved ones to grieve in uncertainty.

But he figured a dramatic entrance would help ease the tension of his return. Thinking to himself, he called out to his dad. "Hey Dad, do you think you could create a holder for my trident like yours on my back? He felt a warm feeling through his head as a holder appeared on the back of his hoodie. "Thanks, Dad." Percy could swear he could feel his dad smiling.

As the flames of the burning shroud flickered in the darkness, Percy turned to Calypso with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Watch this," he whispered, a playful grin tugging at his lips. With practiced ease, he assembled his trident, each movement purposeful and deliberate.

Taking a step back, Percy launched his trident into the air with a powerful throw, his gaze fixed on the descending weapon. The campers watched in astonishment as they heard the trident fly through the air, their eyes darting around in search of the unseen assailant. Only Artemis wore a knowing smile, her eyes sparkling with recognition.

Gasps of awe filled the air as Percy's trident descended with precision, piercing directly through the heart of the burning shroud. The flames faltered and died in an instant, extinguished by the divine touch of the trident.

As the moonlight bathed the scene in its ethereal glow, the trident began to emit a soft, radiant light. The campers stood in awe, mesmerized by the mystical display unfolding before them.

A few moments later, Percy materialized beside his trident, standing on the shroud with a confident grin. With a swift motion, he extracted the trident from the fabric and the concrete table it had pierced, effortlessly spinning it before securing it on his back.

Turning to face the stunned campers, Percy's expression was nonchalant, as if his dramatic entrance was nothing out of the ordinary. "What? I'm not a fan of burning something beautiful like this," he remarked casually, shrugging off the awe-inspiring feat as if it were a minor inconvenience.

The campers erupted into a cacophony of excited chatter, their voices blending together in a chorus of disbelief and amazement. Artemis watched with a smile, her gaze full of pride, while Zoe, Amelia, Annabeth, and Thalia each displayed varying degrees of relief and joy.

Chiron's expression softened with relief, a silent acknowledgment of Percy's return and the sense of stability it brought to the camp. Meanwhile, Percy's attention turned to the girl still enveloped in Zoe's comforting embrace, his heart swelling with affection and concern.

Jumping down from the table, Percy approached Aurora with steady steps, his heart brimming with emotion. As he crouched down in front of her, he greeted her with a gentle smile. "Hey you," he said softly, his voice filled with warmth and reassurance.

Aurora's eyes widened in shock before filling with tears, and without hesitation, she flung herself into Percy's waiting arms. He embraced her tightly, offering her comfort and support as she sobbed against his chest. "I thought you died," she choked out between sobs, her voice trembling with emotion.

Percy held her close, his own heart aching at the thought of causing her such anguish. With a tender smile, he gently lifted her up, her arms and legs wrapping around him in a tight embrace. Percy carried her towards Chiron.

"Chiron, we have a visitor at the top of the hill. Please go get her settled in. I need to take care of this one," Percy instructed, his voice steady as he gestured towards Aurora. Chiron nodded in understanding, recognizing the urgency in Percy's tone.

With Aurora securely held in his arms, Percy turned and made his way out of the amphitheater before vanishing in a silver light with Aurora.

They reappeared in Percy's room, the familiar surroundings offering a sense of comfort and safety. Percy lowered himself onto the edge of the bed, still holding Aurora close to him. "Sunshine, it's fine. I'm here," he whispered softly, his voice a soothing melody in the dimly lit room.

Aurora remained silent, her grip on Percy tightening as if she feared letting go would make him vanish once more. Percy sighed softly, his heart heavy with empathy for her pain. Leaning in, he rested his chin on her shoulder, his hand gently rubbing her back in a comforting rhythm.

Time seemed to stand still as they sat together, enveloped in a cocoon of shared solace. Percy felt Aurora gradually relax in his arms, her tense muscles slowly loosening their grip on him.

Finally, she looked up at him, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. Percy's heart clenched at the sight of her vulnerability. "I thought I lost you. I don't know what I would do if..." Her words trailed off, lost in a wave of emotion, and she dissolved into tears once more.

Without hesitation, Percy pulled her back into his embrace, holding her tightly against his chest. "I know, babe, I know," he murmured softly, his voice filled with understanding and reassurance. Gently rocking her back and forth, he offered her the solace she desperately needed, his presence a calming anchor.

They remained entwined in each other's arms, finding solace in the silent embrace, until the rhythm of Aurora's breathing gradually softened into the gentle cadence of sleep, Percy watched over her with tender affection.

Percy gently disentangled himself from Aurora's grasp, careful not to disturb her peaceful slumber. After removing her shoes and tucking her into bed, he took a moment to freshen up before climbing back into bed beside her.

The next morning, Percy awoke to find Aurora snuggled closely against him, his arm wrapped around her stomach with her holding his arm in place. A fond smile graced his lips as he admired her serene sleeping form, feeling a warmth spread through his chest at the sight of her.

Attempting to shift and rise from the bed, Percy found himself thwarted by Aurora's firm grip on his arm. Chuckling softly to himself, he abandoned the idea of moving, content to remain where he was, basking in the comforting presence of his girlfriend.

Just as he was contemplating their next steps, a soft knock echoed through the room. "Open the door," Percy whispered as quietly as he could, not wanting to disturb Aurora's peaceful slumber.

The door creaked open, allowing Zoe to cautiously poke her head into the room. With a silent step, she slipped inside, gently closing the door behind her. "Hey, Zoe, what's the latest?" Percy inquired, his curiosity piqued.

"Felix's friend Rachel, a clear-sighted mortal, and our key to navigating the maze, is due to arrive today," Zoe announced, her voice tinged with excitement and anticipation.

Percy's nod conveyed his understanding and readiness for the upcoming task. As he glanced over at Aurora, who was stirring from her slumber, he couldn't resist planting a tender kiss on her cheek before returning his attention to Zoe. Her smile reflected the relief she felt witnessing Aurora's peaceful sleep after the tumultuous week of barely sleeping.

"We'll be prepared shortly. Did you manage to check in on Calypso?" Percy inquired, his concern evident in his voice.

Zoe's brows furrowed in confusion. "But isn't she trapped on her island?" she asked, her tone laced with bewilderment. Percy shook his head firmly. "No, I brought her back with me. Her island is where I've been for the last week. Poseidon freed her after I threatened to stay there and leave Zeus to fight Kronos alone unless she came with me."

Zoe's eyes widened in astonishment, her shock evident. However, her expression softened into a smile. "You're unlike most men. Not many would dare threaten the gods' existence like that." Percy shrugged nonchalantly. "I couldn't bear to leave her to suffer any longer, especially since she's your sister and Aurora's," he explained.

Zoe's smile widened at the mention of family ties. "Thank you," she said softly before turning to leave, her heart lighter knowing her sister was safe.

Percy reclined, relishing the comfort of his bed until he felt Aurora's gentle squeeze on his arm. He greeted her with a warm smile as she turned to face him. "Good morning, Sunshine. How'd you sleep?" he inquired, his voice soft and affectionate.

Aurora paused for a moment, her gaze meeting his before she buried her face into his chest, playfully punching his arm. "Shut up, Seaweed Brain," she mumbled, her words muffled against his chest.

"Ow! What was that for?" Percy protested, feigning hurt. "I come back after being blown out of a volcano, and I get abused? What kind of crap is that?"

Aurora's punch landed on his arm again, slightly firmer this time. "That's for leaving me for a week not knowing if you died. Do it again, and I will kick your ass," she warned, her tone carrying a hint of seriousness.

Percy nodded quickly, his eyes wide with mock fear. "Yes, ma'am, consider me warned. No more potentially dead-vanishing acts," he promised, grinning in amusement.

Aurora nestled her head into his chest once more, a satisfied smile playing on her lips. "Good. Glad you know your place," she teased.

Percy rolled his eyes affectionately, a fond smile adorning his face as he embraced the playful banter Aurora.

"So, are you ready to go meet up with everyone? The sooner we go, the sooner we get to come home," Percy urged, a hint of anticipation in his voice. Aurora shook her head stubbornly. "No, I'm comfortable where I am," she stated firmly, clinging to him as if unwilling to let him go. Percy looked at her incredulously. "You're not gonna let me go, are you?" he asked, half-jokingly.

Aurora responded with a silent shake of her head, her expression resolute.

With a resigned sigh, Percy rested his chin on her head, silently acknowledging her reluctance to part ways.

When Aurora finally relented and released him, they both got up and began to prepare to meet up with the others to greet Rachel, whom Percy still had no idea about. Zoe had mentioned that Rachel was their way through the maze, a fact that puzzled Percy, but he trusted Zoe's judgment enough not to question it.

They left the house in search of the others, assuming they would either be gathered together or attending their separate activities. After searching for a while, they decided to check the war room.

Upon arrival, they were taken aback to find everyone engaged in a serious discussion, the atmosphere notably somber compared to the usual lively debates Percy was accustomed to witnessing during war meetings. When they entered, all heads turned towards them, and the room fell silent

"What's going on?" Percy inquired, his brow furrowing with concern. Felix, looking visibly nervous, turned to face him. "Ummm, hi, Percy," he greeted hesitantly. Percy regarded him with a slightly cooler expression. "Hey, Felix. What's happening?"

Felix hesitated before responding, his tone uneasy. "Well, some of the campers aren't pleased that you disappeared for a week and returned with a titan. Somehow, they managed to get Lord Zeus's attention, and he demands that Calypso be brought to Olympus."

Percy stood there in silence for a moment, his eyes beginning to glow with a fierce mix of silver and sea green. The campers watched in fear, gripping onto their seats as the Big House trembled under an unseen force. "They... did... what," Percy uttered, his voice devoid of its usual warmth, replaced instead by a chilling coldness.

In that tense moment, a brilliant flash illuminated the center of the room. Hermes materialized, his expression a mix of bewilderment at the fearful faces of the counselors and concern as he noticed the trembling of the house. Following their gaze, he turned to lock eyes with Percy. Confronted by the furious demigod, Hermes swallowed nervously before taking a cautious step forward. "Percy, Lord Zeus has no intention of harming Calypso. He only wishes for her to return to her island until the war is over," he explained hastily.

Percy's eyes dimmed, the fierce glow subsiding as Hermes let out a sigh of relief. "No," Percy stated firmly. Hermes looked taken aback, stepping back cautiously. "What do you mean, no?" he asked tentatively. "I mean no. Calypso is not going back to that island. Did my father convey my sentiments to the council?" Hermes nodded in response.

"Okay then. Now that Zeus knows my stance, does he still demand her return?" Percy inquired, his tone unwavering. Hermes closed his eyes briefly before answering, "Yes. He insists that while she does not need to be confined by a barrier, he still wishes for her to be contained to ease the concerns of the campers."

Percy stood silently for a moment, contemplating the situation. Finally, he nodded. "Very well. Aurora, come with me. If Zeus insists on her return to that island and refuses to heed my words, then I will comply with his wishes." Thunder rumbled ominously outside as Hermes smiled and nodded. "I will await your return here," he said.

Percy nodded in acknowledgment before turning to leave the room, Aurora following closely behind him.

Zoe, seated in the Artemis chair, furrowed her brow in confusion. She couldn't fathom why Percy would ever agree to such a demand. However, she knew there had to be a reason behind his actions, and she was determined to uncover it. After what felt like an eternity of waiting, Percy still hadn't returned. Hermes' concern was palpable, evident in the furrow of his brows and the tension in his voice.

Just as Hermes contemplated leaving the room to search for Percy, Chiron entered. "Ah, Chiron, have you seen Percy and Calypso?" Hermes inquired urgently. Chiron's response was immediate. "Yes, my lord. Percy, Calypso, and Aurora all just teleported out of the camp, courtesy of Aurora. I do not know where they went."

Zoe's confusion deepened, her mind racing with questions. Where could they have gone, and why? The uncertainty hung heavy in the air as the campers exchanged worried glances, realizing that something significant was unfolding.

Hermes' complexion turned paler, his expression reflecting the gravity of the situation as he nodded in acknowledgment. With swift movements, he exited the room, leaving behind a lingering sense of apprehension among the demigods. A sudden urgency gripped Zoe as she heard the voice of her mistress resound in her mind, commanding her to return to the safety of Artemis's cabin without delay.

Zoe's heart raced as she leaped from her seat, propelled by a sense of duty and foreboding. Ignoring the curious gazes of the other counselors, she dashed out of the room with determination, her mind consumed by the need to act swiftly before Zeus became aware of the unfolding events.

When Zoe entered the cabin, she found all the huntresses gathered inside, including Thalia, who was adorned in hunter gear—a sight that perplexed her until she realized the gravity of the situation. Artemis emerged from her quarters, and upon seeing Zoe, a smile of relief graced her features. "Good, now that we are all here, let us go," Artemis declared, her tone resolute.

Before the huntresses could voice their inquiries, Artemis swiftly transported them out of the cabin. As they reopened their eyes, they were met with a breathtaking sight. Gasps escaped their lips as they beheld the beauty of the island surrounding them. However, their astonishment deepened upon noticing the grandeur of the mini-mansion situated in the heart of the island, its imposing presence visible above the lush canopy of trees.

"Quickly, let us regroup with the others at the house," Artemis urged, her voice brisk. The huntresses nodded in unison, swiftly falling into step behind their leader as they sprinted towards the front door. As they approached, the sight that greeted them only heightened their awe. The house radiated a soft, silvery glow, adorned with intricate moon designs etched into its exterior—an unexpected marvel that left the Huntresses puzzled, even Zoe, who assumed it was Artemis's home.

Upon stepping inside, they found themselves immersed in a realm of breathtaking beauty. The interior seamlessly blended modern elements with ancient Greek design, evoking a sense of timelessness that captivated their senses.

When they reached the main room, they paused in the doorway, taking in the grandeur before them. The expansive space was adorned with various seating arrangements and a well-equipped kitchen. Yet, what caught Zoe's attention the most was the sight of Percy reclining on one of the couches, with Aurora nestled beside him. Across from them sat a woman with ethereal silver hair and eyes—Selene, whom Zoe immediately recognized. Beside her sat a man crowned with a flaming laurel wreath, unmistakably Helios, Selene's twin. Nearby, Calypso tended to a collection of flowers by a windowsill.

As Percy caught sight of them entering, he sat up, eliciting a protest from Aurora, and greeted them with a warm smile. "Ah, there you guys are. Welcome to my home." Artemis stepped forward, her curiosity piqued. "Percy, when did you acquire such a splendid residence?" Percy chuckled before reclining again, gesturing for the huntresses to find seats wherever they pleased.

Artemis and her Huntresses exchanged surprised glances, puzzled by Percy's unexpected consideration for them. "But why would you involve the Huntresses, Percy? You hardly know most of them," Artemis inquired, her curiosity evident.

Percy's smile widened as he explained, "Because they are Zoe and Amelia's family. I couldn't rescue my two friends and leave their sisters behind to face a losing battle, especially not at the risk of their lives. Besides, I anticipated that Zeus might attempt to use the other Huntresses as leverage if I only brought Zoe and Amelia, so I brought all of you as a precaution."

Artemis smiled warmly before walking over and shaking Percy's hand. "Thank you, Percy, for looking out for my Huntresses, even though you didn't have to." Percy returned the smile before nodding. "Of course, Artemis. Eventually, if need be, I will bring all my close friends here, mainly Annabeth."

As soon as he finished speaking, the sky shook with lightning booming overhead. The Huntresses glanced up nervously, while Percy fixed his gaze defiantly at the skylight. "Try it, crybaby!" he yelled. Everyone looked up in shock at the sky, witnessing a massive lightning bolt hurtling down towards the skylight before it deflected off, far above the mansion room. The group stared at Percy in astonishment, who grinned at their expressions.

"This palace is protected by my father's realm as well as my uncle's during the day and my mother's during the night. Zeus has no power here, but he can try all he wants. It's futile," Percy explained confidently. The group chuckled until Artemis glanced up.

"Zeus is calling a meeting. I shall return soon. Selene, you may need to be prepared to bring Percy," Artemis said, her tone serious. Selene looked up in surprise but nodded in acknowledgment. With that, the group fell silent as Artemis glowed silver before flashing away.

(Olympus)

Artemis arrived and quickly took her throne. Everyone else was already present, except Poseidon, who arrived a few seconds after Artemis had taken her seat.

"Good, now that everyone is here, we can start. We need to decide what to do with the titan traitors!" Zeus exclaimed. Poseidon looked confused before his expression hardened.

"What do you mean, the titan traitors?" he said with an edge to his voice. Zeus turned to look at him.

"I mean the fact I ordered the loose Titaness to be put back on her island, and instead of dropping her off with Hermes, Percy, and Aurora teleported out of the camp with her instead. When I found out they were on the island with Calypso in a mansion, I tried destroying it only to have my bolt bounce off as if the barrier was still up."

Poseidon listened to Zeus's speech before leaning forward, his expression colder than Artemis had ever seen. "Well, this will be interesting," she thought to herself. "You mean to tell me that you ignored what I told you not 24 hours ago, and now you're upset that Percy followed through with his threat? You know as much as I do what my children's fatal flaw is. What made you think Percy wouldn't follow through?" Poseidon's voice was sharp and laced with disdain.

"I have to admit, he's got a point," Artemis thought as she watched the exchange. Zeus looked at Poseidon angrily. "I don't care what your flaw is, I want to know why the house is protected from my bolts." Poseidon leaned back on his throne. "Because the island is in my domain, you dumbass. It's protected by my power, as well as Lady Selene and Lord Helios during their respective times of power. That island is as untouchable by you as Atlantis is." Poseidon's voice dripped with scorn and authority.

Zeus, at this point, was turning red in the face with sheer anger and jumped up off his throne, holding his master bolt threateningly. "HOW DARE YOU PROTECT THE TRAITORS FROM ME! IF YOU WANT TO HIDE THEM, THEN I WILL TAKE IT OUT ON THEIR FRIENDS! HERMES, RETRIEVE AURORA'S SISTER AND THAT HUNTER GIRL FROM THEIR QUEST." Hermes nodded grimly before flashing away.

At this point, Artemis realized who he was going after. Jumping off her throne, she protested loudly.

"Leave my huntresses alone! They did nothing to you!" Poseidon jumped off his throne, leveling his trident at his brother. "You make any move against my nieces' huntresses, and you won't live to fight the battle with our father." At that moment, Hermes flashed back empty-handed.

"They aren't at camp, father." Zeus turned to look at Artemis. "Where are they, daughter?" Artemis looked defiantly at her father. "They are on the island with Percy because he suspected you might try this." Zeus bellowed with rage before leveling his bolt at Artemis. "Then I will take it out on your remaining hunters. You will learn not to defy me." At that, Poseidon threw his trident at his brother's hand, knocking the bolt out of it and pinning it to the far wall.

"Geez, you are slow. My son may be a bit dumb at times, but he's not stupid. All of my niece's huntresses are there because he knew you would try going after them to force him to give up Zoe and Amelia." I don't know who was more surprised, Zeus, who was looking at his symbol of power pinned to a wall, or Artemis over the fact her uncle knew her huntresses' names.

Poseidon turned to Artemis, smiling, all hatred gone from his face. "My dear, return to your huntresses. We will deal with this idiot." She nodded and flashed away as she heard her father bellowing something about not allowing anyone to leave.