All rights belong to Rick Riordan

Chapter 42

Judgment

(Percy)

When I opened my eyes after I guessed we reached our destination to avoid the disorientation of the travel, I found myself far above the Earths surface at the back of Artemis's chariot. As soon as we arrived Diana let go of my hand which was a good thing because she immediately reached for the reigns from the drowsy demigod who had been holding them.

Reyna looked exhausted which was unsurprising after all she had probably been up since this time yesterday, had fought in a battle and then been dragged to Orthrys before finally supervising the moon chariot all night. It was no wonder she looked ready to drop from tiredness.

'Thank you Milady.' She said stifling a yawn as she leaned back against the side of the chariot before noticing me.

'Well look who's back from the dead. Though I could have sworn you were taller.' She said trying to sound playful but instead ruining by letting her head drop as she finished barely able to hold it up.

'Err yeah, a lot happened I guess.' I replied. She would not know how much happened though as their were certain things I was not prepared to tell any of the hunters/huntresses.

'Well at least you are alive or at least you are until Thalia gets a hold of you.' She said with a grin.

'That's the best bit, she can't actually do it now.' I said in reply happily though she would probably sure as hell try.

Reyna's eyes widened as she digested what I had just said but she was interrupted by Diana who turned back towards us apparently happy judging by the smile on her face.

'You did well Reyna all considered though I am sorry you had to stay here for so long on your own.' The goddess praised and the daughter of Bellona gained a smile on her face.

'It was the least I could do for you Milady, you were needed more down there than I could have been and clearly it paid off if Percy is here now.

'Nevertheless you should get some rest, Perseus wait here while I take Reyna back to the camp so she can go to bed then we will go to our next stop.' She commanded firmly grabbing the huntresses hand before disappearing in a blaze of light.

I though it was strange she did not take me with her but then again if I returned now the inquisition of Thalia would begin and that could wait. As much as me and Tania did not get on, I was loathe to leave her in the underworld longer than necessary after all Hades did not need to lay a hand on someone to torture and break them, his shear presence enough was bad and that was not even including his symbol of power causing me to shudder at the memory of the helm of darkness. It was a malignant device even when not being worn.

So instead I was left to stand in a empty chariot in high orbit waiting for my girlfriend to return so we could parole a prisoner from the underworld.

(Thalia)

I had woken up early expecting Artemis to be back with first light as per usual but instead the only god in sight was Nico who was standing on the far side of the hearth talking to a little girl who carried a small pot with her, who I knew was no camper otherwise I may have questioned why she was out so early but fortunately I recognized the girl as Hestia.

I had seen Nico return last night but he had refused to tell me where Artemis and Reyna were, the little zombie was lucky he had the ability to fade into shadows otherwise he would have a dozen arrows imbedded in his immortal ass.

I had no idea what the pair were discussing but I gathered it was something to do with the hunters or Artemis by the fact Nico would occasionally nod his head towards our cabin though he remained unaware of me watching him back.

Eventually though the pair finished talking and after a small bow from Nico the goddess simply disappeared in a column of flames.

I was about to step out of the cabin when he too disappeared leaving me disappointed, I wanted to ring the truth out of his scrawny little neck.

'It is rude to pry in a gods affairs you know.' A voice said to my left and sure enough he had reappeared in the shadows cast by the early morning sun alongside the cabin.

'Shut up death breath and tell me where Artemis is, so she can tell me where to find Percy and I can kill him myself for lying to me. Then after that I am going to kill you for hiding the truth.' I growled out quietly conscious of my sleeping sisters behind me through the open door.

'I have a better idea, how about you ask her yourself when you next see her and you can't kill what you can't touch so have fun.' He said laughing and I went to take a swing at him intending to put my fist down his throat only for it to strike the side of the cabin when he faded out of the way leaving me alone with nothing but a bruised set of knuckles.

'Thalia do you mind not punching my cabin, you will wake up the others.' A familiar voice said and I turned to find my sister/mistress helping to support a weary looking Reyna by the shoulder.

Forgetting the pain in my hand for the moment I ran over to help Diana and grabbed Reyna's other arm.

'Milady is she ok, what happened to her?' I asked as we slowly made our way to the cabin entrance.

'She has just had a long night after yesterday, she needs to rest but other than that she is fine. I will answer some of your question when we are back outside.' She said and respectfully I stayed silent for the sake of those that were sleeping as we made our way in the cabin before depositing Reyna on the empty bed next to my own.

It did not matter that she was still fully clothed and armored because she was asleep by the time her head hit the pillow, however I knew that she was bound to have some serious discomfort when she awoke.

Fortunately Diana noticed this and with a snap of her fingers was able to magically remove her armor and place it on a mannequin between our beds.

The goddess seemed content to leave her as she was before making her way back towards the door and I swiftly followed her desperate for some answers.

Surprisingly she began to walk towards the beach, I thought she would want to talk at the dining pavilion as it was isolated but then again perhaps she did not want to risk being overheard.

When we arrived at the beach the tide was fully in obscuring the majority of the sand leaving only a narrow strip above the surf barely wide enough to walk along however to my surprise Diana simply raised a hand towards it and the sea moved back as if in response to some command by the goddess before she lay down on the now greatly expanded area of beach looking towards the rising sun.

(Diana)

As I looked at Apollo's chariot I could not help but think of Perseus who I had left in my on the other side of the planet however it would be easier to overcome some of Thalia's pent up annoyance and curiosity without him being here to antagonize her and her to assault him in response.

I had been surprised with the ease at which I had been able to control the local tides. I had simply wanted the tide to travel outwards and it had reacted to my desire. I could even tell which inhabitants were living below the waterline including the three naiads a few hundred feet away by the pier. It felt strange that so much could change in the space of a few hours and all because of one man.

This time yesterday I had been planning on how I could avoid him for the rest of the day hoping that he would be distracted by the return to CampHalf-Blood but now I felt sad to be separated from him and using my new powers over our joint domain served as a reminder of him being left alone.

I was interrupted from my thoughts when Thalia roughly crashed out on the sand next to me very ungracefully looking at me expectantly.

'So Milady can you tell me what the hades is up with Percy? Because no one else will.' She said almost demandingly which was bemusing as I knew that she was desperate to know the truth.

'What do you want to know about him? I will tell you what I am able to.' And willing to I thought with a hidden smile.

'Is he Ok? Is he dead?'

'He is fine for the moment; Apollo was able to heal him after we found another arrow to cure him.'

'Good because that means I can kill him myself, what is this madness about him being a Titan how is that even possible? How can a demigod become a Titan?' She asked her voice tinged with anger at being left in the dark.

'Yes he is a Titan, He was made a partial Titan by Kronos while he was in Tartarus before the end of the last war, after the war he traveled to Orthrys where he was made a member of the Titan council though he remained still partially mortal and with godly descent. That was why it was still possible for him to die.' I explained simply.

'So what he gets made an immortal by his own worst enemy and then the rest make him the equivalent of an Olympian?' She asked slack-jawed.

'Pretty much, though one tried to kill him only to lose the battle and his domains. That is why he now has wings if you were wondering though he gave back one of them.'

'What domains does he have then? I guess he has time from Kronos. That would explain some of the times where he would be able to appear in two different places extremely quickly.' She asked surprisingly astute though I had noticed the same several times.

'He also has Light, Constellation, the Hunt and formerly Air.' I told her and her eyes lit up as she comprehended the magnitude of what he was actually capable of. Unlike most of my siblings I did not crave power though of course I would not turn it down if it was offered to me like this morning; whereas Thalia had the classic look Father has when he tries to visualize himself as being more important and powerful.

'Wait you said the Hunt, as in Hunting? Is that some sort of Joke? Percy is the worst and most clumsy hunter I could imagine and that is without using a bow therein he becomes downright dangerous to everything except his target.' She said playfully though it was generally truthful, sure he had been working hard lately to hunt the theoretical side of the domain but he was still useless at the practical.

'Sadly it is the truth I share a domain with him, which was one of the reasons I accepted him as your guardian besides him being a better person than Heracles, I plan on making him worthy of it.' I said happily and from now on I meant it, there was no more avoiding it, he was going on one hell of a crash course when we got back.

'He has to survive that long Milady as you said he can still die. Now can you tell me where he is so I can beat the rest of the truth out of him?' She said cricking her neck and then her knuckles, to bad she didn't know that he was now immortal properly.

'Well unless you want to fly to my chariot you are out of luck.' I said playfully and I watched her pale at the thought of heights and flying. Truthfully she probably could as I had tried to get her to harness the air currents like our younger brother but she was terrified by the shear thought of it.

'Then can you go get him now so I can begin by frying him with a lightning bolt again?' She said sadistically and I was worried to think whatever else she had planned for my boyfriend.

'No not yet, I and he have to take care of some matters first but then you can talk with him when we get back. We will not be long and do not disturb Reyna she needs the rest, which means no asking her questions. Perseus will explain to you all, so until then do not tell anyone else what I have told you.' I said warningly.

'Ok Milady but please hurry I can't wait to begin 'questioning' him.' She said using air quotes to highlight her sarcasm as if it was not obvious enough to start with.

'Oh don't worry I don't plan on wasting time in getting back, this is one thing I want to watch though you should try and avoid killing him as there will be a lot of sad and angry people if you do. Now you should go wake the others and get them ready for the day. The captured campers will be brought back soon and you should remind Phoebe that those Stoll boys may be among them, you know how much she like them.' I said remembering the reign of terror she inflicted on the pair as a means of getting over her grief of last year and as a means of revenge for the pairs centaur blood prank.

'Yes Milady, I am sure she can't wait almost as much as me.' She said with a grin rising from the floor and brushing the sand off her outfit.

'We should be back within an hour or two so until then behave.' I warned her to which she reluctantly nodded before turning back towards the camp. As soon as she did and was hidden from sight I relaxed my control of the tides before flashing away just before the water reached my legs, I just did not fancy being a Mermaid goddess at the moment.

(Percy)

I could get used to hanging out up here in the moon chariot, at first I had been annoyed that Diana had just taken Reyna and flashed away leaving me here but then after a few minutes of standing around doing nothing I had decided to look at the earth below me and to my surprise I found I was able to observe everything below me if I looked hard enough.

I saw the Guards of New Rome patrolling the cities perimeter while the rest of the city remained silent in the early hours. I saw the vast expanse of my father's kingdom as I beheld the entirety of the Pacific Ocean and saw just how much of the world he actually controlled. I spent a while looking at the Neon haze that was Japan and thought that it reminded me of Times square but as an entire city, perhaps one day I could actually visit the place as it looked cool.

I did not focus on anyone specific though as that would be creepy I guess, to be able to spy on peoples lives from Orbit. Sure enough I could have focused on the figure of Leto as usual standing on the roof of Orthrys waiting for the sunrise but instead I simply looked away to find the next interesting scene as I passed time.

It was a shame the sun had risen over Camp Half-Blood as it meant I could not observe what was happening there as I wanted to know what was taking Diana so long though I suspected my Agitated cousin had something to do with it although I did not know if that was still technically true. After all I had been purged of my fathers godly DNA though of course he had re-adopted me as a work around of the condition but did that mean that Zeus was still my uncle and by extension Diana and Thalia still my cousins. It was pretty weird to think that I was now dating my direct cousin at least Annabeth had been a cousin once removed. Perhaps it was a good thing if I was no longer directly related to her by blood.

I was broken out of my strange thoughts of inbreeding when the goddess in question appeared back alongside me.

(Diana)

I still found it strange to see Percy in his new shorter form though I suppose it is more of his natural height pre partial Titan. I had become used to him towering over me though sure it had caused issues of awkwardness. He was leaning against the side of my chariot with a thoughtful look when I arrived which soon changed to one of embarrassment when I planted a light peck on his cheek.

'Err hello Diana.' He said nervously.

'Considering I am supposed to be the nervous one about relationships, I seem to be far more comfortable and open with us than you are.' I said putting my hands on my hip pouting, which only served to make him look even more nervous.

'Your not the one your father will try throwing lightning bolts at if he found out.' He defended which I suppose was true though I would not let that happen.

'He may be the lord of the sky but even he does not control what is up here, no one can see us. So stop being so nervous.' I chastised teasingly.

'I know but it is still strange to think that we are finally actually dating, I thought I was doomed to an unattainable dream but now here we are.' He said relaxing slightly.

'Your right we are, so how about you actually kiss me for once like a responsible boyfriend.' I said demandingly noticing the colour drain from his face as he froze.

'What am I not good enough?' I said locking eyes with him taking note of the return of the surrounding sea green to his eyes.

'Err no you look beautiful honestly.' He stuttered out, and I internally basked in the compliment though outwardly I remained looking at him intimidatingly.

'I am still waiting you know.'

I watched him nervously move away from the side of the chariot towards me reluctantly removing his hands the rail around it as his face neared mine I stood unmoving forcing him to come to me until at last his lips met mine gently before I stopped resisting and kissed him back as intensely as I knew how to and to my relief he suddenly found the ability to operate his hands effectively as one was wrapped around my waist while the other cupped my head and held me close to him.

This was easily the best kiss I had ever had and I was enjoying the proximity our bodies had to each other when I felt his mouth open slightly and I felt his tongue brush against my lips as if hoping to gain entrance. I knew what he was hoping to do but I liked to set the pace of this relationship and so while he was intently focused on his goal I flashed us out of the chariot and to the entrance of the underworld. Oh and I also changed aspect with a smile in my head at what was about to occur.

(Percy)

I had been so engrossed in the kiss that I actually failed to notice changing location as I had subconsciously closed my eyes. However I did find it strange that I had to tilt my head slightly downwards so I decided to open my eyes and investigate the fact that Diana's head had gotten lower despite the fact I was still holding her.

It was quite a surprise to find myself suddenly making out with a 15 year old goddess on the side of a road in LA. I rapidly pulled away before someone saw me and assumed I was some sort of Pedophile or something. I may only be 17 in reality but I sure as hades no longer looked it, sure I may no longer be so gods damned tall anymore thankfully but it would still look strange to a passerby.

Thankfully it was still the early hours of the morning on the West Coast so there was no one on the street.

'Aargh don't do that Artemis, I have enough things going on without having to consider my girlfriends alter ego is a immortal girl scout.' I said feeling extremely embarrassed at just how oblivious I had become during our kiss, though it had been worth it.

'What's wrong with the girl scouts, the mortals based it upon my hunters you know.' Artemis said narrowing her eyes.

'Nothing I suppose other than the fact you look like a school girl in that aspect, this is far less awkward when you are Diana.' I said desperate to cover my tracks but failing epically.

'Oh so as my natural persona I am not good enough to be seen with you?' She said before giving me the look that told me to tread carefully.

'No of course not but I feel more comfortable making out with you as Diana than Artemis but you are still cute no matter who you appear as.' I said desperately hoping she would let me off. Fortunately after a few more seconds she finally relented and relaxed.

'Your lucky you are a seaweed brain and that I like you.' She said with a smile and I was glad to be back on her good side though I still felt awkward knowing I was about to enter the underworld with my girlfriends as a young teenager.

'You do know you can't call me that no more.'

'Why not?' She asked in a high pitched irritated tone.

'Well technically you're a sea goddess as well now.'

'Yeah but your father is Neptune so yours is guaranteed.'

'Anything you say Little Mermaid.' I said teasingly noting the irony of her even having a shade of red hair. However Artemis seemed to gain a look of panic on her face as she understood the implication that having a tail made her vulnerable to the nickname.

'If you tell anyone that nickname I won't have to worry about ever breaking my oath because you certainly wont be able to.' She threatened and I felt myself pale as I considered the consequences.

'Ok then Arty I will keep that one between us.' I said and I watched her eye twitch at her abbreviated nickname though she failed to protest at my use of it.

'So can you change back into Diana now or at least appear older please, I don't want to enter the underworld with a pre-pubescent godly girlfriend.' I protested.

After a moments pause she slowly changed appearance becoming taller and more developed. She was still Artemis but at least she had Diana's figure. I suppose Hades might have considered it strange if she came into his domain in her Roman aspect.

'Come on then, or are you scared of being seen with me?' She said walking towards the familiar entrance of DOA studios as I hurried to follow her. At the early hour everywhere else may have been closed but the Underworld is open for business 24/7.

(Artemis)

Percy caught up with me just as I reached the entrance doors to the Underworld's 'waiting room' before opening the door for me, at least he had manners even if he was a total imbecile most of the time.

As I passed the crowds of shades who were forced to linger in here, I brooded over the fact that he had managed to make me a new nickname and truthfully there was little I could say in reply to it. Thank the gods there was no sign of a talking crab anywhere though that reminded me of the fact I could probably understand marine life now.

I was still thinking of ways to get him back when we reached Charon's desk.

'Well well well if it isn't Perseus Jackson come back down here, let me guess drowned in the hot tub while cavorting with your girlfriend here.' The spirit said sarcastically. Even so the only thing stopping me shoving a arrow through his throat was the fact he was only a spirit and impervious to physical assault.

'Not quite though you should really be more respectful to Titans and goddesses. Me and Artemis here need to speak with your boss so you may need to re-arrange the ferry bookings and tell him we are coming.' Percy stated simply and if it were possible the ghoul paled as he slowly recognized who I was before reaching under his desk and pulling out a walkie-talkie and beginning a rapid fire conversation that I could not hear before turning back to us.

'Lord Hades is expecting you, one moment please.' He said politely before turning to his intercom.

'All those that are booked on the 5:30Am ferry are to remain in your seats, the ferry has been delayed due to VIP arrivals anyone caught protesting will be sent to Tartarus by order of the management. Thank you.' He said through a series of speakers around the room.

'Ok then will you follow me.' He said walking around his desk towards a elevator on the far side of the room, the crowds parting before him. Evidently they knew to stay clear of the ghoul or risk being here for an eternity. However one remained in the way oblivious of us approaching much to Charon's annoyance as he grabbed the spirit by the shoulder.

'I told you before no freeloaders, and don't give me that excuse about your business going broke because of some kid. No money no ferry this is not a charity I am running.' Charon said pushing the shade to the floor as it fell I made out the details on its ugly male face and planned on ignoring it, it was not my concern what happened down here. My hunter had all been guaranteed Elysium or rebirth.

However someone else did recognize the shade.

(Percy)

It had been 5 years since I lost saw this pitiful excuse for a human being. At least this time I could no longer smell him as the shades remained only barely visible.

I would have thought Gabe had already reached the underworld after all it had been years since my mum petrified him using Medusa's head. Hell he did more for us in death than he ever in life as a 'Sculpture'. Considering how I disliked letting others get hurt I could never feel sorry for the fact that I played a part in this piece of trashes death, if anything I was glad that I helped my mum get over him and get someone who truly appreciated her.

As I looked at the fallen shade I realized that an eternity in this waiting room was to good considering the personal hell he put me and my mother through.

'Percy are you Ok? Do you recognize him?' Artemis said from my side and I realized I had begun to tense up and my nails were cutting into my own palms and a small amount of Ichor was seeping through my clenched hands.

'Sure he was my old step-father, before my mum petrified him using Medusa's head.' I spat out not meaning to take out my anger on her.

'Wait so the kid who bankrupted him was you?' Charon said putting 2 and 2 together.

Gabe however had finally noticed the two living deities and was looking at us as if to appeal for help. Clearly the bastard had failed to recognize me which was no surprise after all I was no longer the skinny kid he used to threaten.

'Yeah I promised everyone in the city outside a free appliance from his store after I got out of here the first time.' I told the ghoul who smiled evilly.

'Well if you want you could always pay his ferry now and I would take him across with us. He may get lost though and end up in the wrong queue towards Punishment perhaps?' The ghoul said suggestively.

'Oh don't worry I will pay his debt though I don't have any drachmas on me I think you will find this will do.' I said forcing my wings to reappear before ripping a handful of feathers out of a pair barely conscious of the discomfort it caused as I handed the Imperial gold quill over to the ghoul who looked at them appraisingly before tucking all but one in a pocket and I watched as he transformed the last into a golden pen before conjuring a clipboard out of the air.

'Well would you look at that Mr. Ugliano someone has volunteered to pay your trip, if you would like to follow me onto the ferry. When we reach the underworld may I suggest you keep to the left hand lane until you reach your destination.' The ghoul announced before swiping his card through the slot and stepping inside the elevator as my long dead step-father hurried after him.

'Percy you need to calm down, this is not you. This is the emotionless person you become on the battlefield. He is not worth lowering yourself any further. You got over him and look at you now, both you and your mother.' Artemis said pleadingly.

If only we had been alone I could have kissed her or hugged her in thanks but instead all I could do was nod as I stepped inside the elevator keeping as far away from the human filth as possible.

(Artemis)

The journey across the Styx was uneventful if you excluded the angry looking female spirit I thought we sighted below the waterline. I would have thought I imagined it were it not for the deathly pale look Percy had taken as he looked at the same area of the river. He remained the same until after the ferry had made it to the shore and I was pretty certain no one had ever been more relieved to reach the barren shores of the Underworld. Well except one deceived lost soul who happily made his way towards eternal torment.

After reaching the shore we followed the path towards EZ Death line and Asphodel. Now on the very few trips I had ever taken to my uncles kingdom I had never liked approaching its guardian but at the sight of the three headed dog Percy seemed to cheer up.

I was about to ask him if he was Ok now when he disappeared under a black mass of fur which surprised me as Cerberus was still up ahead.

(Percy)

For the second time in as many hours I found myself crushed though at least this time it was by a furry assailant and not an armored Cyclops.

'Good girl. Now please get off me.' I called out to the overly friendly hellhound hoping she could hear me. Thankfully she did remove her bulk from my chest though unfortunately she compensated by drawing her tongue up the length of my body so by the end my hair was stuck on end before she sat down wagging her tail so hard the ground audibly thumped with each beat.

Behind her I could hear Cerberus barking with all three heads at once.

'Arty meet Mrs. O'Leary and I think you probably know Cerberus back there.' I said hoping she would get the slobber treatment but instead she simply brushed a hand along the hellhounds flank as she panted happily at the gesture.

'Now why can't all your kind be as friendly as you are?' She said rubbing behind Mrs. O'Leary's ears.

The hellhound replied by whining sadly as if to say she was saddened by her brethrens aggressiveness.

'Hey girl we need to see Hades can you give us a lift?'

'Percy you have to be kidding right?' Artemis said turning from the now laying down monster she had stopped rubbing.

'No. How does it sound girl.' I replied before asking the hellhound who barked happily before resuming her tail pounding as I walked alongside her before jumping on her back.

'Are you coming or would you rather walk the rest of the way?' I asked sarcastically offering a hand out.

'Your going up front, I am not letting anyone see you with your arms around me.' She said refusing my hand before nimbly running up the hellhounds back paw and flipping onto her back before grabbing hold of me loosely.

'Oh yeah because this is entirely different when you hold me'

'Well someone has to pull you back down to earth, now come on lets go.' She said from behind me and Mrs. O'Leary responded by bounding forward towards her mate. Despite her size the three headed Rottweiler still towered over her as we passed by and he whined until I summoned a trio of perplexed deer in front of him as compensation which immediately disappeared in three colossal bites at once.

We quickly made our way across Asphodel and Mrs. O'Leary seemed to make a game of running at one of the black poplars before vanishing into its shadow only to reappear at another up ahead as we approached the black palace until she stopped before the gates where I saw the three furies all standing on the battlements above before they swooped down and landed on the gate.

'Perseus Jackson I see you have managed to find a way of staying out of my grasp, such a shame I had the perfect punishment of making you attend classes for all time' Alecto crooned saddened by my immortality.

'Wait that was it? I would have been stuck with you as a teacher forever?' I said actually surprised by the simplicity of her planned punishment of me considering I had killed her and her sisters.

'While sitting in magma.' Her sister added with a smile, which looked really creepy on the ugly creature.

'And there it is. I knew that was too nice to be true.'

'See Perseus you know me so well, perhaps those hours spent cleaning erasers was good for you after all. Lord Hades will see you inside now if you will excuse us we have to go punish a lost soul who blundered into the fields.' My former math's teacher explained before flapping her wings and flying off towards Punishment and my former step-dad.

My two least favourite people as a 12 year old both in one place and I couldn't be happier about it.

'Come on then let's go free my attempted murderer.' I said surprisingly upbeat considering the context as the palace gates opened by invisible means.

'Only you could make small talk with the Furies and walk away from it with a smile.' Artemis said shaking her head in exasperation before following me inside.

After my dozen or so trips to the underworld with Iapetus to visit Nico I knew the layout pretty well as I walked past the assembled skeleton guards of all Eras until I reached the throne room door which the same two RPG wielding skeletons stood before promptly saluting and opening them as we approached.

(Artemis)

As we walked through the dark throne room I thought it was strange to see two figures ahead seated in their thrones. Normally Persephone only came down here extremely reluctantly because she was forced to spend time with Hades. But instead here my sister was and she actually looked happy to be spending time with her husband as she lacked the usual pale luster she had while down here. I realized that with Hades no longer practically banished down here from Olympus she was probably a lot happier as well.

'Lord Hades. Lady Persephone' Percy said doing a small bow to the king and queen of the underworld.

'Perseus, Artemis.' They both said synchronized with a nod of the head on Hades part.

'I see you are back in good health Perseus, it is a shame I was looking forward to your father Poseidon giving my dear nephew Ares a beat down, but nevertheless I can wait until you do it yourself again.' Hades said with a chuckle which sounded strange coming from the usually grim god.

'Technically my father is Neptune now.' Percy stated drawing a intrigued look from the pair.

'First you become a Titan and now you are saying you have become a Roman, Next you will be saying you are marrying one of the virgin goddesses, no disrespect Artemis.' He said looking towards me apologetically though he was far closer to the truth than he knew.

'Of course uncle, I have to keep some goals for the future.' Percy said jokingly and I was tempted to not beat the shit out of him but that would have given something away.

'Keep dreaming Seaweed Brain.' I hissed at him barely audible.

'Indeed we all have to strive towards something though I gave up on being the biggest arrogant fool on Olympus when I saw the competition I had in my own brother. Was a sad day for me to be beaten by my own little brother.' Hades said feigning sadness.

'It is not just Olympus I am afraid dear.' Persephone said jokingly much to my surprise at actually seeing the pair enjoying each others company and joking together.

'So what brings you here then other than to recount about your change in status?'

'How did you know I had become a true Titan anyway?' Percy asked.

'I knew the moment you stepped into the lobby above and entered my domain or did you forget immortals need another's permission before they can enter their domain. Which reminds me of something you have probably forgotten about. You no longer bear Achilles curse do you?' Hades said going of on a tangent.

'No why?'

'Did you forget that some of your weapons are at least partially composed of Stygian Iron? Just because you may be an immortal does not mean the metal will not attack your essence if you wield it. Therefore I Hades, Lord of the Underworld give Perseus my blessing.' He suddenly announced causing the room to darken temporarily as the shadows lengthened towards Percy as if attracted towards him before the room brightened.

'Ok that was weird, so what does that mean in English.' He said looking at our uncle confused and I tried not to sweatdrop at his stupidity. Seriously he gets someone's blessing then asks them what it means.

'Perhaps you should ask for Athena's blessing because you clearly need the help.' Persephone stated while Hades simply face palmed before looking at Percy with a look of teacher talking to a simpleton.

'You can now enter my domain, wield Stygian Iron, and shadow travel though I do not think you will need it because you can flash around, as well as physical touch a spirit such as the Roman Lares. You can also technically call on the dead; though I would not suggest it as they will know you are not a child of mine and are unlikely to follow your instructions and would probably rebel unless myself, Nico or Hazel instructed them otherwise.' Hades explained.

'So if I wanted to take a stroll through Elysium?' Percy said inquisitively.

'No, Leave the dead to their own devices and if you are thinking of Athena's daughter then certainly not, The fates forbid it and I do not think they are in a good mood at the moment with you if I know brother trying to get what he wants. I do not know how you became as you now are and truthfully I would rather wait to find out though I think I am probably right in thinking he had something to do with it and that he stepped on a few toes to get it done.' He said surprisingly astute of Neptune's Modus Operandi on the matter.

'Of course then Lord Hades, Back to your original question we are here to retrieve Artemis's hunter.'

'About her are you sure, you could just leave her here.' Hades said turning surprisingly sheepish.

'What have you done to my hunter?' I demanded loudly actually fearful for Tania's safety.

'Physically nothing, she is fine, though she is a little screwed up in the head. Turns out she had a lot of fears and troubles in her head and my presence may have released them and her sanity.' The god said apologetically as I felt angry at what he had done though I knew that there was always a possibility ever since I saw him arrive in the throne room wearing his helm of darkness.

The girl had had a trouble life and he had simply brought it all back at once, it was no surprise her mind had cracked.

'Bring her here.' Percy demanded sounding both saddened and angry at the same time.

'It is no use Perseus, it would be kinder to end her misery.' Hades replied sympathetically though Percy did not seem to care.

'I do not care uncle, I will not allow another to be hurt because of me. I swore to protect the hunters and I will uphold that promise, no matter the cost to myself. So once again bring her here.' Percy said practically shouting the demand.

'Now Perseus there is nothing you can do, she is beyond healing even Dionysius would be unable to heal her of her own self-torture.'

'I don't care what you say about not being able to help her, just bring her here and let me try something.' I could tell he was becoming agitated when his eyes blazed golden and his wings reappeared on his back. Hades narrowed his eyes at the sight while Persephone began to look afraid which was no surprise after all she was only the goddess of springtime and would have stood little to no chance when he had just been a demigod let alone as a five domain Titan with the blessing of two of the three big three gods including her husband.

'Do not make demands of me in my own palace Perseus, I have told you that before. Fine take the hunter but I am telling you it is no use.' Hades said back to his familiar cold persona as he spoke matter of factly before waving a hand and summoning a golden sphere containing my hunter before she was deposited on the floor in a huddled whimpering ball.

Percy looked at the girl with a saddened expression despite what she had done to him and I understood that he truly meant what he said about not letting anything happen to me or the hunters. He was taking responsibility for his own would be killers current condition despite not having any part in it.

'This was not necessary, she surrendered willingly. She was not one of the souls doomed to the fields, she is a living person who made a mistake and you were too cruel in your treatment. Even I could have worked out why she acted as she did without having to practically torture the information out of her.' Percy lectured as he slowly approached the girl who looked at him curiously before trying to recoil away in fear from him.

I watched curiously as Percy raised a hand and the girl froze in her exertions suddenly as if someone had used a pause button on her and I realized that was closer to the truth than could be expected when I caught a quick flash of his eyes and saw them still truly golden.

'You were right about not being able to heal her, though it is still possible to cure an illness if you return to a time before the problem ever existed. Artemis take her back to the hunt, I need some time alone.' He said turning towards me quickly and I noticed a trail of gold down his face before he suddenly faded into the shadows of the room leaving all of us in total confusion as we stared at the spot he had been standing where now only a sitting demigod hunter now sat in complete confusion as she looked between the god and two goddess who were staring in her direction in shock.

'Ok where the hades am I? And why are you all staring at me? Lady Artemis did I miss something?' The girl asked hostilely. Yep she was definitely back to normal.

'Watch whose name you say like that girl.' Hades cautioned, breaking out of the fact that Percy had just done a vanishing act using the very power he had only received a few minutes ago.

I was less concerned about the fact that someone who was written off as beyond help was now fine and more with the fact my secret boyfriend had just vanished to parts unknown.

'Milady why does it look like we are in the Underworld? I remember a fight at CampHalf-Blood but then that is all.' Tania asked confused and I realized Percy actually had altered time for the demigod. She was as she was before she ever wounded him, she would not know what she did or went through afterwards.

'We are in the Underworld Tania, a lot happened after though you wont remember any of it luckily for you. All you need to know is you made a mistake and Perseus saved you.' I said simply not willing to explain the events of the last day.

'As if I would need his hel-.' Tania said about to scoff at my words when surprisingly Persephone reappeared alongside her and administered a slap to the girls face.

'Girl you would do well to watch your words, were it not for Perseus being who he is you would be dead for what you did.' She warned the daughter of Ares who paled at the implication.

'Well then where is he so I can thank him for fixing whatever it was I supposedly did?' Tania said aggressively and I was beginning to think how she could be so dense at to not just shut up.

'You need to more than just thank him girl, as so much apologize as well after all you tried to murder him and almost succeeded. Your actions almost caused a war with both sides after you. So you would do well to be quiet until you get out of my domain or I will return the condition you were in formerly and this time Perseus will not get a chance to heal you.' Hades threatened and the words seemed to have some effect as she paled at the implication.

'Artemis find him, I would rather not have another renegade Titan Lord on the loose, I know he will calm down with 'time' but he has been through enough today I should think despite the early hour. I suspect you are the only one who could probably find him.' Hades said turning towards me and I saw Tania's eyes widen at the Percy's Titan implication and she went to say something only to remember the goddess standing next to her before wisely deciding to keep quiet.

'As for your brash, impulsive hunter. My son will return her to the Greek demigod's camp, though she will be kept separated from the rest. I am still not convinced that she deserves the good fortune of Perseus's forgiveness.' He said derogatively before waving a hand and once again she disappeared inside a golden containment orb before vanishing.

'How am I supposed to find him if he shadow traveled out of here.' I said towards my uncle.

'I traced him heading towards a shielded location which means it would be Olympus, Atlantis or Orthrys bearing in mind what he is. I would suggest the third option.' He explained and I guessed it made sense; he would go where he knew.

'Here take these they will help.' Persephone said summoning a bunch of moonlace flowers to hand before walking towards me and holding them out.

'Are these supposed to help me find him because I thought you had Carnations for that?' I said confused as I regarded the flowers.

'I do. These are a gift and an apology for not believing in him. We should have known, there is nothing that can between that man and what he hopes to achieve when he set his mind to it.' My sister said as she gently deposited them in my arms. I was a little incredulous I did not think Percy was one for flowers.

'I would hurry up if I was you before he moves again, he will need to take a break between journeys using shadow travel so I would try and catch him before then.' Hades said and I realized I was now just wasting time, I needed to find him both because I liked him and because I knew that something had upset him beyond the fact we had all doubted his ability to save Tania as ungrateful as she had been.

'Yes uncle and this time don't do anything to my hunter leave her on her own, so she can reflect on what she has learned just now. I want her to get along with Perseus not to scorn him further or this is doomed to repeat.' I asked before leaving the pair before they could reply as I flashed out I search of my missing boyfriend.

AN. sorry about the delay with this chapter, I have been struggling with time all week to finish it and I was reluctant to break it down into smaller chapters as I don't like short ones. Yes as a result of him now being a full Titan he can control time for a person and speed it up or rewind it like he used too with Nemea though it does not work on immortals or the dead.

I also now would like to thank you all for the 150,000 views I have as of today and having over 750 reviews. half way there to my next goal.

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