Authors Note: Well...oh just read the chapter, i have nothing to say here lol.
Chapter 26: Wedding Season! (Poor Hephaestus and Aphrodite)
"Tartarus dear, can you be helpful and get some rags for me? Polybotes has spilled some poison again." Gaia said as she burped the baby. "And while you're at it, can you get more cloth for Thoon over here? Kid really likes to unravel string for some reason.
Tartarus sighed as he pinched the bridge of his nose and hurried off. He was really trying hard not to be a jackass of a parent like Ouranos was, and to prove to Gaia that he can be a kind and caring father. But taking care of a dozen of kids was hard work, like seriously hard. Props to Nereus for dealing with those fifty daughters of his. Or was it one hundred?
"I'm getting close to convincing Typhon to attack the Olympians. But he needs at least a couple of weeks to fully go out, and wants to create two batches of monster kids with Echidna. In the meantime, we will focus on developing, training, and caring for our newborns because they need it."
"Yes ma'am." Tartarus said with a sigh as he handed the things Gaia wanted. "Hello little Alcyoneus, still interested in my stygian iron hand aren't you." Tartarus said, picking up the golden metallic baby giant.
"I still can't believe you managed to get stygian iron without Erebus noticing. He's going to choke slam you to the ground again once he finds out." Gaia replied.
"He won't. Besides, I've been doing this for like a year now. He has a lot of deposits; one tiny deposit won't phase him." Tartarus muttered.
"Tartarus, I think there's something wrong with Foteinós. She looks quite weak to me." Gaia said worriedly.
Tartarus raised an eyebrow. "Weak huh, then maybe we should chuck...check! Check to see if there's anything wrong with her. We can't let anything bad happen tour giant daughter."
Gaia nodded. "You're right, maybe I should take her up to my domain. The fresh air and sunlight may do her good. I wouldn't blame her if this place does not agree with her."
Tartarus blinked. "What's wrong with my place?!" he cried.
"Tartarus, this is the literal definition of hell. And this place reeks of hydrochloric acid. In other words, it smells of puke."
"I think the smell is nice." He muttered, getting up. "I have some business to attend to in the dungeons, I'll be back in a while."
"Okay, have fun." Gaia replied. "No Thoon, that rag is covered with poison, don't touch it!"
"Kylotes, come with me." Tartarus said, the cyclops quickly scrambling up to join his master. "I want you to bring the tool for the prisoner, and be quick."
Tartarus then made his way to the dungeons, where he passed a couple of Arai and cyclops, until he reached a vault, where the most dangerous were kept.
"How is the prisoner doing?' Tartarus asked the dracaena on guard.
"He hasss ssstoped ssscreaming milord. But now he isss sssinging sssongsss about the one up above." The dracaena replied.
Tartarus grunted. "Let me in." he said. The vault then swung open, revealing a man bound in chains everywhere. "Glory to him! Glory to him! Gloryyyy to the highhhh oneeee!" the prisoner sang.
"Do you want me to get a knife to cut out your tongue? I'll even heat it so you won't fell anything." Tartarus growled.
"...I can't...feel...anything though. Hellfire...screwed me over." the prisoner whispered.
"This is the twelfth time you mentioned hellfire ever since you got regenerated in my realm, Mados. Tell me, how did you come in contact with the hellfire?"
"I was a lovely little angel, with a lovely little family." Mados cackled, licking his lips. "BUT HE! HE WAS AN ANGEL FROM DARKNESS! But I was a lovely little angel, who dearly loved his master."
Tartarus sighed. "I still don't know if this is you sane, or unhinged. But I have a job for you."
Mados twitched. "A job? I'm not an angel for hire."
"It's a good one. In a few weeks' time, Typhon is going to be set loose on the mortal world. And while the gods are bust trying to defeat him, I want you to personally target a god and separate him from the rest. Bring him dead or alive, I don't care, he needs to be in my realm."
Mados sniffed. "An Olympian god huh. Who is it."
"It's a fairly new Olympian. I'm not sure if you heard of him, it says his name is Perseus and-"
"HAAGHH, HAAGH, HAAAGH, HAAAGH, HAAGH, HAAAGH, HAA-"
"What the fuck is wrong with you!" Tartarus shouted, slamming Mados's head back against the wall.
"He's the angel of darkness! He's the one to make the sky bleed red! He's the one who would look cruelly down on you, as he extends his wings from hell and burns everything to the ground! Even you!"
Tartarus slowly blinked as he released his hold on Mados. "Perseus...is this angel of darkness? Is he...is he the one that has the hellfire?" Tartarus asked. When Mados didn't reply, he slammed the wall behind him. "ANSWER ME!"
"His wings are from hell, his wings are from hell, his wings are from hell." Mados continued to chant.
"He's definitely unhinged, probably needs a dive into the Phlegethon. If he wasn't carrying vital information, I would have dunked him into the Lethe and made him my mindless soldier." Tartarus muttered.
"Milord? I got what you asked for." Kylotes replied, handing Tartarus the package.
"Look Mados, I have a gift for you that you can use to destroy Perseus. A new shiny set of wings." Tartarus said, revealing a set of stygian iron wings. "Would you like these."
"I can...destroy the angel?" Mados asked.
"If you undergo some tests and experiments. And I will guarantee you that you would be able to crush that Olympian like a bug. For he is no match for the angel from up, right?"
Mados slowly grinned as he relaxed into the chains. "Wings...wings for me? And yes, no one can compare to the beautiful angels of Ouranos. I will fight the bug in his name."
Tartarus closed his eyes. "And what about me?"
Mados smiled. "You, the opposite of my master. I will kill him in your name."
CLANG
SHINK
"OW!"
"Perseus, are you in the back right now?" Hestia asked as she stepped in the backyard. Perseus was there, sparring with an automaton which was provided to him by Hephaestus.
"Hey, mom. Just one second, let me just finish this thing up." Perseus replied, swinging his sword at the automaton, who raised his as well to block it. But at the last second, Perseus sidestepped, swiping his sword and cut the automatons head clean from the shoulders. A couple of sparks and a spurt of oil came out from the neck as the disembodied machine fell down, a small fire soon erupting from the hole.
"So, what's up?" Perseus said, as he made his sword absorb into the braces.
"Wouldn't Hephaestus be mad that you already destroyed his creation after two hours of use?" Hestia asked.
Perseus scoffed. "Twenty minutes actually. But I did go through the full set of automatons in two hours." Perseus replied, glancing at the pile of destroyed automatons. And on the contrary, Hephaestus will be elated, if it means making more of them and improving upon them. These things are meant to be disposed of. Though I should ask him for more challenging automatons, like Ares's level. Or Poseidon's level, he's good with a blade. Or my level..." he replied.
Hestia sighed. "Very well."
"So, any reason you're here or...?"
"Actually, yes. You got mail." Hestia replied, handing Perseus a sea-green colored envelope, which distinctly smelled like the sea. Perseus opened it and began to read the contents of the letter when his eyes widened."
"Poseidon and Amphitrite finally settled on a date? About time really, I was wondering when the wedding will be." Perseus said with a grin.
"I agree with you. Plus, it's been a while since we had a wedding from Olympus. An actual wedding, that is, not what happened one week ago with Hephaestus and Aphrodite." Hestia replied.
"Wait, does Amphitrite know about what happened with Poseidon when...you know...Aphrodite showed up?" Perseus asked.
Hestia rolled her eyes. "Your uncle Zeus has officially stated that even as a 'what happens in the throne room, stays in the throne room' situation. So, I doubt anyone outside the council will know about this."
Perseus sighed. "Well, I'm sure the rest of the gods are going to be happy to hear that everyone will not know that they made a fool of themselves. Though that does help with blackmail material..."
"Though I do feel a bit bad for Aphrodite. Poor girl, she was just introduced to the Olympians and ten minutes later, got married to someone she may not like. I seriously don't know what Hera was thinking back then." Hestia said sadly. "She came to me that night when you went out with your friends. Asked me where her 'brother' had gone." Hestia then smiled. "I jokingly asked her if that would make me her mother. Next thing I knew, I was being hugged by her as she shouted 'yes' over and over again."
Perseus really didn't know what to make of this situation. "That sounds...weird? But a good weird, I think."
"She's quite sweet really. Though very naïve I might add. She did try to drink the nectar I offered her from her palm."
Perseus blinked twice. "Huh?!"
"Well, she poured a bit of nectar in her palm from the glass, and then drank it from there." Hestia replied, mimicking the motion. "She didn't even know what a glass was."
"Yeah, she's a bit naïve." Perseus said with a chuckle, knowing very well it was far from that as he remembered the time he first introduced her to a sandwich. Which she ate piece by piece, one slice of bread, a piece of tomato, and a piece of chicken at a time.
"Formal clothes, gifts not mandatory...say in advance if you have a fear of any aquatic creatures?" Perseus said, as he read out a loud the contents of the invitation.
"Sea serpents?" Hestia said innocently.
Perseus frowned. "I'm not afraid of them, just don't like them." he muttered as he continued to read the invite. "Bring someone if it's fine, but separate invite needed. ...What does that mean?" Perseus wondered out loud.
"It means, you can bring a date for the wedding. But the person needs a separate invite as well." Hestia replied, and then smiled. "Are you thinking of taking someone?"
"Hmm?" Perseus hummed, glancing up at Hestia and then back at the invite. "Um...maybe?"
Hestia's eyes widened as a full-blown smile appeared on her face. "Really? You're actually thinking of taking someone?" Hestia asked as she wiped an imaginary tear from her eye. "*sniff* My baby boy is growing up!"
"Moooom."
"So, who is it? Do I know this lucky lady? Is it by any chance...Artemis?" Hestia asked.
Perseus blushed. "Uhh...if she says yes."
Hestia immediately squealed, and then clamped her mouth shut with her hand as Perseus gave her a bewildered look. "Sorry, I just got a little too excited." Hestia said, a bashful look on her face. "But are you going together as friends, or-"
"Mom, stop you don't have to know about all this. Please don't tell me Aphrodite corrupted you or something when she visited!" Perseus complained as he dashed into the house. "I don't even know if she will go with me!"
"Oh, she definitely will." Hestia thought, internally smirking, as she followed Perseus into the house. "I'm your mother, and I need to make sure you won't make a fool out of yourself on your first date. And with the company you keep, can't blame them though, there may be some traits you may have-"
"Mom, you would literally chuck me into Tartarus if I don't pull the seat for my date to sit on when eating. I got this, really!" Perseus cried.
"Oh! We have to pick clothes for you! And I may have to brush up on your etiquette, see if you haven't slacked off with it-"
"I'm going out, bye!" Perseus yelled, dashing outside the house. He kept on running until he was outside Athena's house.
"Huh, wonder what Athena is up to." Perseus wondered as he made his way to the front door. Before he could knock, the door swung open, revealing a tired Athena who almost crashed into Perseus.
"Whoa, easy there 'Thena...you okay? You look like shit." Perseus commented as he inspected Athena's frazzled appearance.
"Too tired to look pretty, what are you even doing here Perseus?" Athena asked. It was then Perseus noticed a golden box in Athena's arms. With the way she was cradling it, one would think there was something fragile inside it. "What's in the box?" Perseus asked.
Athena held the box close to her chest as she took a step back. "Nothing at all." she replied. "Okay fine." she then said on seeing Perseus's raised eyebrow. "There is something, but it's nothing of importance."
"Rightttt. The fact that you're holding it like it's a baby." Perseus commented, not noticing Athena's quickly paling face as he stared at the box. "Makes me think it is something of importance. Especially when you said it was not."
Athena huffed. "Since when did you become so nosy? There's nothing important in the box, now shoo."
Perseus scoffed. "I am not one of your many owls you 'shoo' away. But you are acting really suspicious right now, since you would usually tell my ear off with what you have-"
"Hissssss."
Perseus immediately jumped back. "What was that?!" he asked, his voice almost cracking.
Athena blinked, and then slowly grinned. "Well, since you're so insistent. I have a python inside this. And a few of its eggs. Want to touch it?"
Perseus immediately paled. "Python... . Heh, I'm good, no need to touch them. Or see them."
"Are you sure? Cause I can show you how to defang a snake it's quite interesting if you want to extract its venom. Oh, and I can go on and on with how lovely its patterns look, and its eyes. I think I should open the box, so you will get a good loo-"
"Athena, I will burn that thing if you dare open the box." Perseus threatened, his hand catching hellfire.
Athena pouted. "What a baby. Anyway. Are you here to see me? If you are, then please wait for at least ten minutes for I have to deal with this baby. ...Python! Baby python, and the eggs. Not the pythons' eggs, that's dumb. Okay I'm going to go now." Athena said quickly as she flashed off, not giving Perseus a chance to reply. Perseus shrugged as he stepped into the house, making himself home. Exactly ten minutes later, Athena flashed into her home, finding Perseus browse through her selection of olive oil.
"Why do you have all this out in the living room? You selling them or something?" Perseus asked.
"Not my finest selection that is. And I was trying to find a properly aged and fermented bottle of olive oil for the lovely couple getting together in a few days." Athena replied.
"Wow, does that mean this is going to be the first time Poseidon is going to receive a gift from you? How sweet." Perseus cooed.
"Shut up." Athena muttered, picking up a bottle. "This is for Poseidon and Amphitrite. So it's not fully for him."
"He's still included though." Perseus said with a chuckle, as a thoughtful look came on his face. "But didn't the invitation say that gifts were not mandatory?"
"What?!" Athena exclaimed, rushing to a table and picked up the invite. After giving it another read, she glanced up, a smile on her face. "No gifts for Barnacle Beard, hurray! No way he's going to have my special olive oil!"
"Poor Amphitrite. And stupid me." Perseus muttered, but then frowned. "But wouldn't it look bad that an Olympian member of the council turned up to a big wedding without a gift?"
Athena immediately stilled. "But...but the invite said no gifts." she protested.
"Still, it would look bad on you. The only Olympian, who came without a gift." Perseus replied with a smirk.
"My special olive oil is on the line!"
"Your reputation is on the line!"
"Fine, Poseidon will get his gift." Athena said through gritted teeth as she once again began to inspect the bottles.
"And Amphitrite?" Perseus innocently asked, receiving a huff in response. "You want my help in choosing?"
"You don't even know how olive oil is extracted, and you want to help me in finding the best batch." Athena pointed out.
"Hey, I know how its extracted. Its extracted...by squeezing olives. Simple. And I have a knack for picking out fresh stuff. Mom drilled it into my head." Perseus replied.
"Very well. By the way, what happened to Apollo exactly last week? I know he got badly beaten up, but no one even knows how. And I don't think it's because he stole the Olympian brew from Zeus's locker, right?" Athena asked.
Perseus shrugged, though he did look a bit mad. "I think it's because of that light show he made in Delphi. Probably pissed off someone."
"But he let himself get beaten up?!" Athena exclaimed.
"He was super drunk, probably didn't register anyone hitting him since he was already numb." Perseus replied nonchalantly.
Athena narrowed her eyes. "Righttt. So, how are you and Artemis doing? Anything...interesting happened?"
Perseus blushed. "Uh, yeah. We, hang out now more often than ever. And I think I had a moment with her hat time." he muttered.
"What was that? I couldn't catch that last sentence." Athena asked.
"Nothing of importance, just my daily musing that's going through my head right now. How about this bottle of oil, I can tell the flavor will be rich." Perseus replied.
"Maybe, but it's too thick. Also, what's this I have heard of Aphrodite being your sister? You haven't replaced me or what. Or, is she actually your sister? Her birth is still unknown, for now."
Perseus sighed. "Don't ask me, ask her. But she's nice...kinda. A bit touchy though. But why are you even asking?" Perseus asked, then grinned. "Feeling jealous?"
Athena laughed. "Of that lady?! No way, she can't even hold a book properly. Tore a bunch of pages for crying out loud. Me, jealous of her. Speaking of Aphrodite, I wonder what she is up to."
Well, speaking of Aphrodite, the love goddess was frolicking around the gardens, picking flowers and grass left and right, and then eating them. After she puked a couple of times (sand tastes way better!), she was finally chased out by a bunch of irritated dryads. After dodging a bunch of lovestruck gods, she then made her way to the hill where the main Olympian gods palaces were located. Aphrodite then decided to visit Perseus, to see if he would accompany her dress shopping for the wedding (and possibly give some tips for asking out Artemis!). He wasn't home however, though that didn't stop both Hestia and Aphrodite from gushing over cute baby images of Perseus, courtesy of the hearth, iris message, and Hestia's memories. She then later made her way up the hill, and after inspecting her palace in construction, decided to visit Artemis. The two of them had yet to have a single proper conversation at all, and if Perseus were to get with her, then it was high time Aphrodite should know and meet her brother's potential lover.
Soon enough, Aphrodite was at Artemis's palace doorstep, having been told by Hestia that she had moved here just yesterday. After a couple of knocks, she waited patiently outside, admiring the moonlace plants that adorned the front yard. The front door slowly opened, revealing a weary and bed haired Artemis, who was staring at Aphrodite experimentally licking a moonlace.
"What in my father's name are you doing here?!" Artemis shouted.
"Artemis, hello! I don't we have properly met and talked." Aphrodite exclaimed, as she skipped over to the moon goddess. "As you know, I'm Aphrodite, and I was wondering if I can-"
"No." Artemis muttered, closing the door. Aphrodite just blankly stared at the shut door, shrugged her shoulders and then blasted the doors open with her godly powers. She then went inside, brushing past a stunned Artemis as she made her way to the living room.
"Ugh, your place looks so bo-ring! I know that you moved yesterday, but you couldn't have at least made t look more presentable?" Aphrodite asked.
"...Who gave you the right to barge in like that?!" Artemis shouted.
"Me?" Aphrodite said, picking up a vase. "Why is this glass so big? Is it for special occasions?"
"That's not a glass. And you have sixty seconds to leave the premises." Artemis said through gritted teeth.
"But I need to talk to you. And this involves Perseus, so I'm not budging."
Artemis just stared at Aphrodite, her mind registering her words. "What about Perseus?" she asked with a glare.
"Well, since Percy is my brother, and since I'm quite fond of him, I would really like to see that he would live the best life possible." Aphrodite explained.
"You aren't even his actual sibling-"
"Ah, ah, ah, I'm still talking. And, one of the best and most obvious way I can see to that is through his love life. Which comes to my first question." Aphrodite said, leaning forward. "Do you have feelings for Perseus?"
Artemis was still glaring at Aphrodite, but a soft smile did come across her face. "Yes, yes I do. But that still does not explain why you are even-"
"Perfect! Now, I either have to get Percy's head out of his ass, or yours, and see to it that you two will get together as soon as possible! And I know the perfect way for you to catch his attention, in a romantic way if you get my drift. And to warrant a love confession as well."
Artemis had a look of doubt on her face on hearing that. "You do? And why are you so invested in-"
"Poseidon's wedding! And it would honestly be quite romantic as well. And imagine, the beautiful underwater scenery, the soft neon light illuminating from the wildlife as you and Perseus bask in it. Ahhhhhh! I'm getting goosebumps just thinking about it!" Aphrodite exclaimed as she jumped up and down on the sofa.
"Poseidon got a date for the wedding? When?" Artemis asked.
Aphrodite's smile immediately faltered. "Huh? That's what you got out of my babbling?!" she cried.
Artemis sighed. "I'm not going to discuss all this lovey-dovey stuff with you. Especially you."
"But who better than the goddess of love!" Aphrodite whined. "And who will you even discuss lovey-dovey stuff with then, hmm?"
"My mother?"
"Pfftt, your mother. Sweetie, you need experts. No offense, but your mother only had one romance, and that was with Olympus's top dog in infidelity. And I, am clearly the best possible option when it comes to love. Heck, not even possible. The only option."
Artemis groaned as she slumped down on the sofa. "Can you please get out of my palace. I need to get ready for the hunt."
But I'm helping you!"
"And I don't need any help. Now go." Artemis replied, dragging the love goddess out. Artemis then opened the door, only to find Perseus at the entrance with his arm raised, presumably to knock on the door.
"Oh hey Artemis, perfect timing. I was won-" *SLAM!*
Artemis immediately slammed the door on Perseus's face as she leapt back, while breathing heavily.
"Perseus...saw me look like a mess...why!" Artemis cried, as she hurriedly tried to straighten her hair.
"Heh, it seems like you have a penchant to slam doors on people's faces. And ow, that grip of yours hurts." Aphrodite replied, massaging her wrist
"Oh shit, oh shit, I slammed the door on his face! You, get out now!" Artemis hissed, summoning her bow. Aphrodite yelped in fear and disappeared in a flash of light. Artemis stared at the spot where the love goddess was and then let out a heavy sigh. She then jumped when she heard knocking on the door, and then slowly opened it to find a bewildered looking Perseus.
"Hey Perseus, you came quite early." Artemis said. "Any particular reason you came here. Not that I mind you coming here, you did come quite early. Not that I mind that as well I just...will shut up now."
Perseus chuckled as he rubbed the back of his neck. "I wanted to ask you something, and I wanted to know fast so...yeah. By the way, was that Aphrodite inside with you?
"Yeah, but I kicked her out." Artemis replied.
"Huh. You know, Apollo was right, you do have a massive case of bed hair. But you do look cute like this." Perseus said with a grin.
"What?" Artemis said, only now realizing she still looked the same when she came out of bed. She yelped, disappearing in a flash of light and once again left Perseus standing outside awkwardly. Perseus shuffled his feet and then made his way in the house when he saw Artemis come down the stairs and motioned him to come inside.
"So, what's so important that you had to come all the way to see me to tell me?" Artemis asked as she led Perseus to the kitchen. "You want tea?"
"Yes please. So, you heard that Poseidon's wedding was coming up, right?" Perseus asked.
"Yep. I just checked the invite. What about it?" Artemis replied.
Perseus opened his mouth, and then closed it. Only to open it again. "Well, I was wondering...that..."
"Yes?" Artemis asked.
"Uh..." Perseus said, as he felt his stomach literally tie into knots. "What gift are you giving Poseidon and Amphitrite!" he shouted, grabbing the cup of tea and then began to drink it.
"Um...I don't know? What can you even give a god?"
"It's the thought that counts." Perseus mumbled. "I was thinking of a fishing rod."
Artemis wrinkled her nose. "A fishing rod? He probably has a bunch of those."
"Because he's a collector. And it'll be more advanced, hopefully." Perseus stated.
Artemis nodded. "That sounds reasonable. Guess I have to piggyback on your gift then."
Perseus laughed. "Yeah, no. Go get something else, you and Apollo are always piggybacking on my gifts."
"No I don't!"
"You and Apollo literally stole the birthday card I made for my mom and gave it to her as an original gift. The green color did not fool her!"
"That was just one time!" Artemis said, shaking her head fondly. "But Perseus." she said, sitting down next to him. "I'm guessing a gift discussion was not the only thing you wanted to ask me, right?"
Perseus chuckled nervously. "Would you believe me if I told you gift discussion was in the forefront of my mind?"
"No. I bet you thought of it on the whim." Artemis said with a deadpanned voice.
Perseus gulped. "Okay. I was actually wondering...if you want to go to Poseidon's wedding."
Artemis raised an eyebrow. "Of course I'm going ash brain, why wouldn't I-"
"No, I meant that...if you would like to go to the wedding with me. The two of us, together." Perseus said seriously, as he stared at Artemis.
Artemis's eyes immediately widened on hearing this as a light blush appeared on her face. "You mean, we go together as each other's dates?"
"Yeah, as my date. That is, if you are fine with that. We could as friends, or not at all, or-"
"No, I would love to go as your date." Artemis said, a full-blown smile threatening to split her face. "I would really love that."
Perseus unknowingly let out a breath he didn't know he was holding in. "That's awesome. Holy shit, that's better than awesome." Perseus said with a laugh, Artemis joining him as well. "Man, now I seriously can't wait for our date."
"You just asked me out two minutes ago." Artemis replied with a laugh. "But I'll be lying if I say I don't feel the same."
Perseus smiled in response, as he glanced at the sun outside. "Looks like it's about eight. Want to head to camp now?"
"Not now, let the hunters get a break for now. They do have a big day today. But you can help me with moving in my stuff around the place. It's honestly a mess.
"Sure. Though I'm surprised you moved in so quickly. Apollo being too much to handle?"
"And my mom basically kicking me out. Plus, I need the peace and quiet. Hey Perseus, if I'm going as your date, does that mean I can piggyback off your gift this time?"
"Absolutely not."
"Okay everyone, listen up. You guys have learnt quite a lot this past week, and I'm really happy to see that you guys have made a lot of progress. Which comes to our first ever assessment for you all. How, are you all, going to incorporate your various skills when you all participate in a hunt. Would you set the traps, be the archers, or help in tracking down the animals. We're going to see all that today." Artemis stated.
"And hunter of the week, which we will see after this assessment, and will get to be the first person to try my favorite black currant pancakes for breakfast. And I will tell you it's definitely worth a treat." Perseus stated. "So, any questions?"
Acantha raised her hand. "Won't we burst in to flames and simultaneously combust if we try the food of the gods?" she asked.
Perseus cocked his head to the side. "Uh, no. It's going to be regular black currant pancakes, prepared by me. Ok sure, it will have a bit of nectar in it but not too much so you won't combust."
Ajax then raised his hand. "But won't we still combust if we try the food of the gods? That is what the priests said."
"You will combust if you are mortal. But since you all are now partial immortals, and have the blessings of me and Perseus, you get to try our normal food. But not too much, your bodies aren't built for that. Even with partial immortality." Artemis replied.
"I see..."
"I'm not sure if I will win, but I'm definitely sure Arius will come last." Celyn said with a grin.
"Hey! I'm quite good with a bow now you know. I can take aim." Arius muttered.
"But not as good as all of us." Celyn pointed out.
"Guys, no fighting okay. Now, take your positions, we are going to see how efficiently you guys work as a team so move out." Perseus said, ushering the hunt out of the clearing. "You have the equipment ready for them?" Perseus asked Artemis.
"Yeah. Now we just have to wait and see." Artemis replied, jumping on top of a tree as she made her way through the forest. Perseus merely stepped into the shade and fell into the shadow, immediately popping up at a deer clearing. However, Perseus hoped they wouldn't go for those; it would be quite tough at their level of experience. Artemis had soon joined him, frowning when she saw he had already reached before her.
"Afraid to fall from the treetops?" Artem is asked.
"If you're there to catch me when I fall, then I'm not afraid." Perseus said, making Artemis blush.
"Clumsy dork." she muttered, but nonetheless smiled.
Meanwhile, the hunters were trying hard to find suitable animals to hunt for their game. Perseus and Artemis did say that rabbits were acceptable, but they were mostly aiming for dear at least. Celyn was at the front as the lead archer, her bow already out while Clio and Acantha were her backups. Phoebe and Ajax were helping track the prey. While Arius was...lookout. It could be worse though.
"Do you two have any leads? Forest seems unusually quiet today." Celyn asked Phoebe and Ajax.
"I wouldn't be surprised if it was lady Artemis and Perseus's doing. In order to make the game a bit challenging. But no, so far no tracks." Ajax replied.
"Do you think they're sleeping? Like that long kind of sleep which I heard animals sometimes do." Clio asked.
"That's usually in the cooler months, but it's spring now so I don't think so." Phoebe said, as she brushed off the leaves and twigs from the ground. "There are snake tracks over here. Maybe we should follow them."
"Why would we want to follow snakes?!" Arius squeaked. "We're searching for rabbits."
"Well, maybe the snake tracks would lead us to the rabbits. Don't snakes eat them? This one might have gone hunting for some, and who knows, might lead to a burrow as well."
"A good observation Phoebe. I think this will work in our favor." Ajax replied.
"I have a bad feeling about this." Arius muttered as he followed the group. After some walking, and a brief stop to take down some birds, the tracks finally led to a burrow, which Phoebe was positive was a rabbit hole.
"Look how big it is. I bet there has to be something inside. But how are we going to lure them out?"
"By jumping up and down?" Acantha asked.
"That's stupid. Maybe we should blow up the hole?" Celyn asked.
"That's even stupider. And with what resources?" Ajax asked.
"Guys, I think I can hear something moving inside. Maybe it's going to come out." Clio said, as she leaned closer to the hole. "i can definitely hear some rustling."
"Hissssss."
"And hissing. What did I tell you guys, what did I tell you?" Arius exclaimed as everyone jumped back on hearing the hiss.
"Do you think we will get extra points if we kill snakes? I'm sure Perseus would be happy to see some dead snakes." Phoebe replied.
"Guys, we're wasting time. It's almost nine, we don't have time to coax something that might not come out." Clio said, glancing up at the sun.
"Don't forget they might be poisonous. And then we'll get bitten, and then Percy and Artemis will get mad and none of us will get to try pancakes!" Arius whispered yelled.
"Clio is right. And Arius...kinda. We can't waste time so let's move hunters." Celyn announced as she moved ahead, the rest quickly joining her. They once again trudged through the forest as they tried to find some suitable prey. After some forest mishaps, and a thorough convincement that a boar was not worth the trouble to hunt down, it wasn't long until they reached a clearing, which was fully overrun by rabbits hopping everywhere.
"Look at this place! It's a bunny paradise. And open season for us." Celyn exclaimed as she nocked an arrow.
"Wait Celyn, don't shoot. What if this is a trap?" Arius said nervously.
"Huh?" Celyn said as she and the rest stared at Arius incredulously. "What in the world are you talking about. A trap, from Perseus and Artemis?"
"No, not from them. Like a, general monster trap."
"Arius, you have one minute to talk sense with me. And it better be good."
"Well...there's an awful lot of rabbits. Like, this place is literally chalk full of them. And they are all white! Not brown or grey in color. What if, these are not regular rabbits? They may look cute and all from the outside, but what if they are actually demonic monstrosities that will rip our limbs piece by piece?! I don't know why, but I can really imagine them having blood-stained mouths for some reason." Arius said.
A long stretch of silence overcame the group as the hunters all stared at Arius as if he had said something grandiose. Clio broke the silence by letting out a small giggle, and soon enough, everyone had erupted into laughter.
"Arius, remind me to ask Percy and Artemis if they can check your head. Because that was the stupidest thing you have ever said." Phoebe said with a laugh.
"It's a valid question! You never know if they could be monsters. Look, they are not even scurrying around in fright on hearing our laughter. It's like we aren't here!" Arius protested.
"Oh shush. Arius, be in lookout. Archers, aid me when I say necessary. Phoebe, Ajax...just watch, I guess." Celyn said, as she took aim. She then launched the arrow, only for it to miss. Celyn again tried, only for her shots to miss.
"You know, they aren't reacting to the arrows coming at them. I was already expecting the clearing to be empty by now but it's not. And they seem to be quite fast." Phoebe noted.
"Demonic rabbits." Arius whispered, only to receive a knock on his head.
"All of you all, shush! They might run." Celyn hissed. But the rabbits didn't seem to be fazed by it.
"I wonder..." Acantha said, stepping into the clearing. It was only then the rabbits reacted, all of them glancing up to stare at Acantha. Acantha continued to slowly walk towards them. She then kneeled next to a rabbit and brought her hand out for the rabbit to sniff. The rabbit did it, and soon enough it was rubbing its cheek against Acantha's palm.
"Aww, you're so sweet." Acantha cooed as she tickled the chin of the rabbit.
"Acantha, we're supposed to hunt them down, not befriend them." Celyn grumbled as she walked into the clearing. "What even made you go out there?"
"They are so harmless though. Why do people hunt rabbits again?" Acantha asked.
Phoebe shrugged. "Ask our dead ancestors. Aww, look, they are cuddling up to me."
"They seem creepy, why are they staring and watching our every move." Arius nervously said as he finally stepped into the clearing.
"Oh stop being a crybaby. Here, hold one and tell me now if you find bunnies' creepy." Celyn said, placing a rabbit into Arius's arms. "Dammit, now I don't have the heart to kill them now. We are so going to fail this assessment."
"So much for hunter of the week and god made pancakes then." Arius muttered as he stared at the rabbit. "The bunny is cute though."
"They seem very tame though, for being wild animals. And they definitely do like nuzzling my neck." Clio said as she replaced a rabbit one by one down from her lap.
"I must say, the amount of them in one place is startling. Maybe because its mating season?" Ajax wondered out loud, making everyone frown.
"Really Ajax, mating season? Why would animals need a mating sea-"
"AHHH, demonic bunnies!" Arius cried as he chucked the rabbit into a tree. "It's teeth, it's eyes, they-they-they-"
"Arius what the hell is wrong with you today?!" Celyn shouted. She was going to say something else when Phoebe suddenly screamed out loud. Celyn spun around to find Phoebe holding out the rabbit at arm's reach. She dropped the rabbit, only for it to jump up higher than a normal rabbit as it went for presumedly the neck. Luckily, Phoebe managed to catch it once again in the nick of time.
"Kill it now, don't just stand there!" Phoebe shouted as she tried to pin it down with her foot.
Celyn then heard a peculiar noise, like a something was being drawn out from its sheath. She glanced down to see a rabbit, staring at her with its mouth open. And inside its mouth was a clear circular set of razor-sharp teeth. The rabbit made some sucking noise and it then jumped at Celyn, aiming for the neck. Celyn was paralyzed with fear as she tried to do something to block the upcoming strike, but to no avail. But to her shock and surprise, an arrow impaled the rabbit from its side. The rabbit tumbled on the ground, as it began to twitch and make choking noises repeatedly. Celyn whipped her head to the direction where the arrow came from, only to see Arius holding his bow out with a dumbfounded expression on his face.
"Everyone run! These things are preparing to attack!" Ajax yelled as he took his knives out and made a dash towards Phoebe in order to help her out. Clio and Acantha hurriedly got up as they swiped the rabbits aside, as all f them started to brandish their teeth out. Suddenly, the hunters felt the ground beneath their feet to rumble, and before they knew it, all of them were launched in to the air, but not that high. The hunters then fell a considerable distance away from the demon rabbits, as they watched with widened eyes as an earthen wall erupted from the ground, blocking the demon rabbits from the hunters.
"Perseus." Phoebe whispered as the hunt slowly got up, only to immediately back away in fear as loud noises were heard from the other side. The hunters watched in alarm as a bunch of rabbits were seen on top of the wall. A set of spikes then erupted from the top of the wall, impaling the rabbits, only for more of them to appear in the top. The cycle continued for a bit as the wall slowly expanded in size and height, as it tried to contain the rabbits.
"What are you guys waiting for? Get out of there and follow the silver beacon now!" Artemis yelled inside their heads, breaking the hunters from their trance. They immediately ran to the opposite side, and sure enough, there was a silver beacon that was waiting for them. The hunters were soon following the silver beacon and sometime later, turned up at their camp. All of them were panting hard as they fell to the ground, trying to get the horrifying event from before out of their minds.
"You...you saved me..." Celyn gasped out as she stared at Arius. Arius looked up from the ground he was lying in to glance at Celyn, and then fell back down. "I told you, I can aim." he said, and then groaned. "Ow...I think I pulled a muscle."
"You can't pull what you don't have Arius." Ajax said, as a series of light chuckles floated around the hunters.
"Everyone alright?!" Perseus shouted as he and Artemis flashed into the camp. "No one's hurt right? And please don't say it's just scratches because I really want to make sure no is hurt."
"We're fine, but we are so sorry Perseus for being distracted back there." Phoebe began to say. "And that we couldn't complete our hunt, and we-"
"We don't care, we're just glad you guys are all alright." Artemis said as she and Perseus scooped up everyone into a big group hug. The hunters immediately stilled as they were not used to physical affection, but they slowly relaxed into the embrace, some even returning it.
"And I must say, that was a wicked shot Arius. Fluke or not, it was brilliant." Artemis said, making the boy blush as he mumbled a thank you.
The hunt stayed like his for a few minutes till it was broken up. "Well, that was not how I expected your first hunt to go. And I'm definitely going to exterminate that rabbit infestation back there. Don't want any of them come so close to us." Artemis muttered.
"Count me in. Though we sadly won't be able to make rabbit stew out of them." Perseus said.
"So...we lost our hunting game, right?" Clio asked.
Perseus shrugged." Kinda? Not really, all of you have taken part in your roes very well. And some of you'll have acted more logical than the others. The demon rabbits was an unfortunate detour, but it definitely teaches us the 'appearance can be deceiving' moral. But we do have a hunter of the week, and yes, the hunter will receive the pancakes." Perseus said, gaining the hunters attention. "Artemis, if you may."
"Right. The hunter of the week, who has definitely exceled in their work...is Arius!"
"Huh?!" the hunters said together as they stared at Arius, who looked more shocked than Zeus when a lady refused his advancements.
"Not only did you display tact in the game, but you have actually exceled quite a lot since the past week. And that is really saying something since you couldn't hold an arrow with a bow properly. And while others may have done great as well, they weren't at the bottom where you were Arius. So congratulations." Artemis said with a smile.
The hunters immediately shook themselves out of their stupor as they congratulated Arius on his win, who was still stunned. Perseus was glad to see there wasn't any signs of animosity among them. Competition was fine of course, just not the toxic kind.
"Alright then, as promised, one batch of black currant pancakes coming right up. And don't worry hunters, you get to try Artemis's smoked bacon, and that's also another dish to die for."
All the hunters cheered as they rushed to the tables for breakfast. Perseus was going to join them when Artemis pulled him aside.
"Why did you direct the arrow which Arius shot to meet his mark? I'm guessing it was to save Celyn, but I feel there's something else."
Pereus smiled. "Yep. Arius needs the confidence; kid hardly even believes in himself. And with how well he is actually doing, I don't want that confidence to waver. Plus, he has to start believing in himself somewhere, and I took the perfect opportunity. Granted I would not be doing it all the time, but still."
"That...I think was actually one of the sweetest things you have ever done." Artemi said.
"I've done a lot of sweet things. But is this in my top ten?" Perseus asked with a grin.
"Maybe, but I doubt there's enough for a top ten."
"Hmm, then I guess I have to up my ante. And our first date might be just the place."
"Don't you dare push it, there's only so much sweetness I can handle, and enough head inflation that you can handle."
"Not everything will be sweet." Perseus breathed out.
"Are you alluding to something, Perseus?" Artemis replied.
"Maybe. Maybe not. But I-"
"Helloooo, we are all hungry over here!" Phoebe called out, as the other hunters waved them over.
Perseus and Artemis sighed. "Kids, am I right?" Perseus simply said, making Artemis laugh. "We're coming Phoebe, no need to be mad."
"If I was mad, I would have said I was hangry. But I'm starving." Phoebe complained, a plate of smoked bacon soon appearing on the table. "Thank you so much."
"No problem, Phoebe." Perseus said as he and Artemis sat together at the head of the table, giving him a good view of their hunters. "No problem at all."
"Choose...a...color! Sea foam green, or hot pink?"
Perseus sighed. "I think the sea foam-"
"I'm taking both!" Aphrodite announced, as she dumped the dresses on a pile of clothes on the counter. Aphrodite then began rummaging through the head band section, muttering to herself. "Perseus, help me find something with pearls on it!"
Perseus let out a groan as he got up and walked up to Aphrodite. "Aphrodite, you just have to pick one dress, one! You're already on your second pile, and cleaning out the shop."
"I know, but I still can't find the perfect one. And I like those dresses, so you're buying them. I won't wear it for the wedding, but I can definitely wear it elsewhere. Are these pearls or rounded marbles?"
"They definitely look like marbles. ...Wait, I'm buying all that stuff?! Why me! I'm not your husband, and heck, you already have one!" Perseus exclaimed.
"If you love your sister, then please don't mention him again. Plus, you're a god, you have everything covered. Not to mention, you do need my help in picking out your clothes as well." Aphrodite pointed out, as she skipped over to the counter. "The jewelry is bad, but the dresses are quite nice. Anyways, we're going to take our leave. Come on Perseus, it's your turn. And don't forget my dresses!"
"I hate you so much mom." Perseus muttered as he trudged to the counter. Minutes later, the two were in another shop where Aphrodite was holding out robe after robe on Perseus, and tossed it aside.
"Yeesh, how difficult is it to find clothes for us two? But then again, we are the most beautiful deities in existence." Aphrodite said as she picked up a purple robe. "Purple looks quite nice on you."
"I feel that purple will look nice on you, just need the right shade of it. And I don't remember having the domain of beauty under me." Perseus said.
"It's your hidden domain, one too powerful for the common to comprehend." Aphrodite said, picking up a black chiton. "You seriously look good with black and blue, but I'm guessing you're tired of those colors."
Perseus shrugged in response.
"You need a color upgrade! Something to make you pop out, and in a good way! Who's the best person for that though..."
"I doubt there's anyone like-"
"I got it! The answer was right in my head. Come on Perseus, we're going for a trip out of the country." Aphrodite exclaimed, grabbing Perseus's hand.
"Wait, what about your clothes-" Perseus shouted, only to be flashed off along with the love goddess. After some stops, the two finally reached their location, which Perseus immediately recognized to be Cyprus, and the very same beach where he and Aphrodite had their walk and talk with Pontus. Perseus didn't realize that Aphrodite had already moved on, as she waddled along the water on the beach.
"Grandpa P! Your grandchildren need your assistance!" Aphrodite shouted.
"Aphrodite, shush! Someone can hear us!" Perseus hissed. He wasn't sure if Pontus would be able to hear them properly here, but lo and behold, Pontus immediately popped out of the water like a dolphin as he made his way to the coast.
"Heya Frothy and Kelpie! How's it going." Pontus said with a grin.
"Hi..." "HIIIIII!"
"So, what is the assistance I am needed for?" Pontus asked.
"Me and Percy need dress robes for Poseidon's wedding. But nothing compliments us at all. So we decided to ask the expert." Aphrodite replied brightly.
"Ah yes, Poseidon and Amphitrite. About time I must say. And I will actually be there, since Amphitrite is my grandchild. But from a safe distance of course." Pontus heartily replied.
"Couldn't bother her? And how is Pontus a fashion expert?" Perseus asked.
"I have you know Kelpie, that I am quite a fashion enthusiast." Pontus replied with pride in his voice. "I was quite the looker back in my prime. I still am, but yeah."
Perseus sighed. "This is either going to go well, or horrible."
"Well, since you're a bit skeptical, you first Perseus!" Pontus said, motioning him over which Perseus obliged. After giving him a full look over, Pontus hummed in response and then clapped his hands. The seawater then shot up and engulfed Perseus's body, as it churned around. The water then fell down, revealing a silvery-grey chiton. It was paired with a black robe that had purple accents as well.
"This...actually looks really nice." Perseus said, turning around. "I'm actually quite surprised."
"See, I still got it." Pontus said with a chuckle. "Okay Frothy dear, you're up next."
"Oh I'm so excited." Aphrodite squealed. "Make me look fabulous grandpa!"
"You got it." Pontus said, once again clapping his hands. The seawater once again rose up to engulf Aphrodite. A few minutes later, the water dropped, revealing a purple dress, sequenced with pearls which also made wave patterns around the dress. There was even some jewelry added as well, which Aphrodite seemed to adore.
"Oh Grandpa P...this is amazing." she said, giving Pontus a hug. "Thank you so much!"
"Yeah, thanks a lot Grandpa...Pontus. Still not saying P. this is actually really good." Perseus replied.
"Anything for you two of course. Wow, you two look fabulous I must say. I think this is my best work yet." Pontus said, blowing a low whistle.
"Now all I need is the perfect date, and tonight will be magnificent." Aphrodite said with a dreamy sigh, her eyes suddenly perking up. "Percy, why don't you be my date? We can go as siblings!"
Perseus rolled his eyes. "I'm already going with Artemis, who mind you, you helped me with. Besides, you have Hephaestus to actually take you with, not me or anyone else."
"Hephaestus the fire god? What's his connection with Frothy." Pontus asked with a bit of edge in his voice.
Aphrodite sighed. "He's, my husband. And you believe the nerve of Hera and Zeus, marrying me off not even an hour until I was introduced, and to someone who not only I don't know, but immensely ugly?! Ridiculous, utterly ri-diculous."
Pontus was silent for a while, but Perseus noticed that he was slowly breathing heavily, as an orange glow began to cover him.
"This is preposterous? What were those two thinking?! Ugh, if I could only go to Olympus and smack some sense in to the gods, but no! Gaia will be mad and she will then try to reduce the water bodies."
Perseus had a sympathetic look on his face. I don't agree with it either. But sadly, I can't smack them silly, even though I want too sometimes."
"Maybe I can disrupt their evening tonight, during the wedding. Yeah, that might work. I would have to be very discrete, but it will be worth it." Pontus said with a grin.
Perseus smiled. "If you want, I can help with the minor ones. But I have a favor."
Pontus raised an eyebrow. "Shoot."
"...Can you make sure no sea serpents come my way? I'm too embarrassed to tell Poseidon myself so..."
"Don't worry sonny, I got your back." Pontus said, showing off a thumbs up. "Actually, shouldn't you be going now? Guests are supposed to arrive in thirty minutes."
"Holy scallops you're right. Wait a minute, where are my clothes?!" Aphrodite shrieked.
Perseus sighed. "I was going to tell you back then, but then you flash-"
"See you later Grandpa P, and thanks again for the clothes. Bye!" Aphrodite yelled, grabbing Perseus's hand and once again flashed off with him mid-speech. After the clothes debacle was settled, Perseus made his way to his new palace to get ready, or house really as it wasn't as grand as the others. But it fit him, large but quaint and quite practical as well. After he was done, Perseus made his wa to Artemis's palace, bumping to Apollo and Hermes along the way.
"Damn Perce, if you weren't taking my sister, I would have definitely been convinced that you were going to go and get the ladies." Apollo said with a chuckle as he swung an arm around Perseus's shoulder.
"Thanks Apollo. You and Ourania still on a break huh, since she's not here." Perseus noted.
Apollo was silent for a moment and then let out a heavy sigh. "We broke up, for real. Which means I'm a single little tingle."
Which also means that us bros will stick together. And slay all the ladies." Hermes said, moving his eyebrows in a suggestive way.
"You know, my mom may have a point. The company I keep sometimes may be bad for me." Perseus said, getting two indignant 'Hey!'. The trio finally made their way to Artemis's house, that was until Perseus faltered back a bit which didn't go unnoticed by the two.
"Looks like someone has the jitters." Hermes chuckled. "Relax Perce, It's just Artemis, your best friend!"
"Yeah, just Artemis, my best friend. Who's going with me as my date. My first ever date with the woman I may actually love. Of course I'm not nervous." Perseus said with a cracked voice.
"Hopefully he'll get out of it. I IM'd Artemis a while back, she said she would be out any minute...now!" Apollo said. As soon as he finished his sentence, the door opened to reveal Artemis. An Artemis that almost made Perseus lightheaded.
For she was wearing a royal blue dress, a color which Perseus immediately realized matched the blue ring on his iris. It definitely highlighted her lite athletic figure with her toned arms, and she seemed to float in the dress as well. Her hair was fully down and curled up as well, cascading down like a waterfall. Her skin was literally glowing as she came out, and her silver eyes looked like a pool of molten metal which Perseus seemed to get sucked in. She had a nervous smile on her face, but on seeing Perseus, it changed to one where she was positively beaming. Perseus felt right then and there that he was slowly melting, and if Artemis were to even touch or talk to him, he would faint, and never wake up again due to embarrassment. Unless Artemis kicks him awake.
Unknown to him, Artemis was having a similar reaction on seeing Perseus. His hair was very much messy hair looked to be tousled in one place, instead of being everywhere. His silver-grey chiton definitely highlighted his physique, which took Artemis by surprise since she rarely saw him sleeveless due to the coat. His black eyes seemed to shine brightly, he blue ring around the pupil actually glowing which Artemis noted. Steeling her nerves, she took a couple of steps forward, and then made her way to Perseus. And her brother and Hermes as well.
"Hello Perseus, you look quite dashing." Artemis said softly.
"Uh...huh...huh."
"What?"
"Don't worry sis, just your average case of nerves." Apollo grinned, snapping his fingers in front of Perseus's face. "But I must say, I'm glad you got a date because you are definitely going to be hounded by guys all over. Even Perseus with the girls, so good thing you two will look out for each other. And because-"
"You're smoking hot!" Hermes yelled, a dopey smile on his face. Apollo sighed, whacked Hermes's head, and then dragged him away, giving Perseus and Artemis some alone time.
"Artemis! You look...stunning. And beautiful, like really beautiful. And stunning, did I already mention stunning?"
"Thank you, Perseus. And you of course look very handsome as well. And...wow." Artemis said with a laugh.
"Yeah...wow...you too." Perseus said, internally shaking himself from his stupor. "No time to act like a drunk satyr, focus!" Perseus thought as he held out his arm. "Shall we, Artemis?"
"We shall, Perseus." Artemis replied, linking her arm with his. The pair made their way down where a pissed Apollo and a sulking Hermes were waiting. After giving their compliments to each other, they crushed the water-resistant pearls provided to the guests and flashed to Poseidon's underwater palace. And while Perseus had been plenty of times to the palace, this instance took his breath away. For the palace was definitely decked out to the brim. Greek fire adorned the torches as luminous jellyfish floated everywhere. Schools of fishes were making huge patterns everywhere. The group made their way to the main entrance, where they soon met up with other guests as well. Perseus spied Nereus, the old man of the sea, talking with one of his many daughters. There was a bunch of Ichthyocentaurs, creatures with the waist up body of a man, but the forelegs and the tail of a fish, as well. They were half-brothers of the centaur Chiron, and said centaur was also with the group, trying out a piece of brownie handed to him. Delphin was at the center, entertaining the godlings with his acrobatic skills. Perseus spotted his mother and Doris, the wife of Nereus, chatting together.
"Perseus, Artemis, oh you two look so cute together. And your dresses. Oh, my baby boy has really grown up." Hestia said, sniffing loudly.
"Mom, your baby boy will blatantly ignore you if you don't stop that." Perseus said with his teeth clenched, while Artemis was trying hard not to laugh.
"Of course sweetie. But let me get a really good look at you two, I definitely need this image ingrained in my mind right now. Oh, you two really look so wonderful together!"
"Well, well, well. Is this my little brother on his first date. And with the girl he likes? Nice one Perseus." Ares said with a grin, as he slapped Perseus's back hard. "Though you should have come to me for tips, which idiot did you go to to ask the girl out?"
"PERCYYYY!"
"That one, though she came to me." Perseus muttered. Ares looked to where Perseus was looking, only to get shoved aside as an excited Aphrodite clutched Perseus's shoulders. "You came! I missed you so much!"
"You literally saw me thirty minutes ago!"
"And Artemis dear, you actually took my advice and went with the blue. So...what was his reaction? Did he fumble with his words?" Aphrodite asked Artemis.
Artemis shook her head fondly. "Yep, he kinda looked like a gaping fish as well." she said, making Aphrodite squeal.
"I'm right here you know." Perseus muttered. The lights in the room dimmed down, and a spotlight was shown on Poseidon and Amphitrite, as they slowly descended down the stairs. The newlywed couple was beaming with joy as the crowd cheered loudly. After the vow recitals, ad Hera officializing the marriage, the couple then made their way to the center of the room where they had their first dance. More people soon joined them on the floor as they danced around.
"Milady, may I have this dance?" Perseus asked hand out and bowing down. Artemis smiled at him as she took his hand. Perseus then led her to the dance floor where they slowly recreated their dance bac in Delphi. And while the scenario may have been different, the mood was definitely setting in as Perseus and Artemis gazed at each other with a mix of fondness, and something else.
"Ahem, are you two just going to move in the same pattern forever until you both drop dead or what?" Hecate asked, interrupting the couple.
"Hecate, hey. Glad you came by. But...what do you mean move around forever?" Perseus asked.
Hecate snorted. "You two have been literally dancing for six songs straight. Even Poseidon got tired. Now shove off Artemis, I get he's your man but I want at least two dances with him. And both fast!" Hecate exclaimed, grabbing Perseus. "Hit it Muses!"
An upbeat tune was soon being played as Hecate twirled Perseus around. Perseus tried to keep up with the fast tempo as he glanced at Artemis only for help, only to find her laughing at him. Two dances later, Perseus was then intercepted by Aphrodite and Athena, who both wanted a dance with their 'brother'. After an argument that looked like it was going to escalate quickly (shouting cat-fight will not help Hermes!) Perseus managed to convince the two that he can always dance with both individually. Though he did get a real kick out of it when he managed to prank both Zeus and Hera on the dancefloor. He then distinctly heard some walrus like laughter in his head, as he stared into the distance where a glowing orange orb was hanging around, flashing away as son as Perseus made eye contact with it. Apollo on seeing the sight of Perseus dancing with his sister like figures, dared Artemis to dance with him, who shrugged in response and commented she would still do it dare or not. That left Apollo quiet for a few minutes.
After finally dancing with Athena, Perseus made his way to Artemis only to get intercepted by Hestia this time, who innocently asked if her son would like to dance with his mother, unless he would be embarrassed. Perseus groaned internally and then sighed, accepting the dance. Though it seemed like 'Daddy's little girl' was also in a similar situation as Zeus talked his ear off with a slightly grumpy Artemis.
"Finally, together, but I'm too tired for a dance. Want something to drink?" Perseus said.
"Yeah, I'll join you." Artemis said, and the two made their way to the bar. After getting their drinks, the two made their way to their friends, who were all staring at Aphrodite drink soup from a glass.
"Why are you guys looking at me like that? I'm just having a drink. A quite salty drink."
"Aphrodite, that's literally soup. You do drink it yes, but with a spoon, not from a glass." Hecate said.
"But this is not food, it's a drink. So you should have it with a glass, right?"
"Aphrodite no. You're supposed to have it with a spoon, and the soup is in a bowl." Perseus said tiredly.
"Food is so weird. You eat with hand and a spoon. But only some dished. What's next, you can eat food from a stick?" Aphrodite asked.
"Uh..." Apollo and Hermes said together, glancing at the table that was packed with skewers and toothpicks on food.
"Okay, how should I eat these chicken pieces?" Aphrodite asked.
"With a fork. Here you go." Artemis said, handing the fork to the love goddess. Aphrodite just stared at the fork, and then at Artemis, and then back at the fork again. "This is mini comb." she finally said.
"What, no! That's a-"
"Mini comb, see." Aphrodite said, twirling the fork around her hair. "I can comb my hair."
"Thank the Fates she's hot, otherwise no one would have looked at her at all." Apollo muttered as he watched Hermes introduce her to the tooth pick. "Why would you use teeth picking instruments for eating?!"
The wedding was slowly coming to critical mass peak as some of the guests had really hit it off with the alcohol. Perseus and Artemis managed to escape the crowd, especially when Hermes managed to convince everyone to do something called the 'limbo'. Perseus took the opportunity on taking Artemis on an improv tour of the palace grounds, where he introduced her to training grounds, armed canons, and the dolphin cove where Perseus and Artemis decided t do a sneaky dolphin race with those available and happy too.
"That was a narrow win for me, your dolphin had bigger snout." Perseus complained.
"Well don't try to point out different landmarks when we're having a race ash brain. Though I bet I would still beat you if the odds were against me," Artemis replied.
"That literally did not make sense at all, and you know it." Perseus pointed out as the two made their way to one of the many terraces.
"Alright, this place is my favorite. A full grand view of the city and gardens, and we're directly facing the fireworks so we are definitely in for a treat." Perseus said with a grin.
"Nice and quiet. Just the way I like it. Until, a big flash of light and noise will interrupt it." Artemis said, glancing at the fireworks.
"Well, we have a lot of time actually until that happens." Perseus replied leaning on the rail. "So until then, what would you like to do?"
"Well, I'm already with you, so that's checked off. I guess, you can hold me?" Artemis replied, cuddling against Perseus who wrapped his arms around her. The two remained standing in a comfortable silence as they watched the sights down below. At some point, their fingers had interlocked with each other as the two moved closer together.
"You're like a big fluffy blanket all over me." Artemis said as he snuggled closer. "All soft, and warm, really cuddly."
"You are the cuddle monster of course. The one who hogs all the pillows." Perseus said, thinking back to that one sleepover.
"Oh shush." Artemis simply said. A few minutes later, she spoke up again. "Percy?"
"Yeah?"
"I may be wrong...which would be really embarrassing. But I just can't get this thought out of my head from the past few days."
"What is it?"
"...Since you asked me to be your date for the wedding, I'm guessing that...you might like me in some way? Or..."
Perseus stilled for a moment, and then let out the breath he didn't know he was holding. "I would be lying if I said I don't feel something for you. And if my suspicions are true, then...whoa. But...what about you? Do you feel something for me...or..."
"Yes. Yes I do." Artemis said softly, turning around to look at Perseus. "And frankly, I don't think I can keep this to myself any longer."
Perseus blinked as a smile threatened to be permanently etch on his face. "So, you do like me."
"And you like me as well. What a surprise. And I'm really happy to know that." Artemis said as she gave a small chuckle.
"Well, since we both really like each other, and if you don't mind...would you like to have a dance with me?"
Artemis raised an eyebrow. "A dance Perseus? And here I thought you were going to ask me the one thing I've been dreaming about for quite a while."
"I just want to do what we did back in Delphi. But this time, properly. And who knows, maybe we might see that dream become a reality." Perseus said, offering his arm. "Shall we?"
"We shall." Artemis replied, clasping her hands around Perseus's neck while Perseus did the same, but around her waist. The two slow danced around the terrace as they gazed fondly at each other, slowly leaning more and more forward. And when the fireworks were lit off in the distance, that didn't stop them from continuing their dance as their lips finally met at the end, the two softly kissing each other as a sea of people indirectly cheered for them. And they didn't mind, for they were lost in their moment. And up above the waters, the moon was glowing a brilliant silver, as it slowly turned into a blood moon and remained as it was for the rest of the night. A beautiful, lunar eclipse.
Well, we did it everyone. The kiss...has happened. I have nothing to say, except it was definitely something I'm sure people were waiting for, and I really hoped you guys enjoyed that scene. And I really can't do wedding scenes lo. But I have to practice for a potential one for our favorite couple maybe ;)
I've watched Monty Python two days ago, seriously hilarious movie. So those who have watched Monty Python and the Holy Grail, I'm sure you guys got the reference to the bunnies XD. and Mados has returned! Did you guys expect it, or no? I hope it was surprising lol.
Also, looks like this was a (very late) weekly update. I'm not confirming that this is permanent, I could probably do Wed updates again. But maybe for now, just think I'm going to stick with a Sat update, so you'll won't get disappointed :P. Thank you guys so much for reading the chapter, follow, fav and rev if you all haven't, and I will see you guys in the next update. Bye!...\/