As he dodged a swipe from the Minotaur's massive hand, Percy's thoughts wandered. This was supposed to be a simple journey home, a brief respite to celebrate his birthday with his family and friends. He had been looking forward to it, a rare moment of peace amidst the chaos of his life.
He spun around, slashing Riptide across the Minotaur's leg. The beast howled in pain, but Percy barely flinched. His mind drifted back to the past seven years. After the defeat of Python and the temporary peace that followed, he and Annabeth tried to build a normal life. But the gods had other plans.
No matter how many times he saved the world, the Olympians always had another quest for him, each one more dangerous than the last. Each quest had pulled him further away from Annabeth, straining their relationship to the breaking point. Annabeth eventually moved to Mount Olympus, taking on a prestigious position as an architect, while Percy adopted a nomadic lifestyle, always on the move, always fighting.
The Minotaur charged again, and Percy sidestepped, thrusting Riptide into its side. The beast roared and collapsed, disappearing in a cloud of golden dust. Percy stood there, panting, staring at the spot where the Minotaur had been. Even now, he couldn't escape the monsters, couldn't escape the call to be a hero.
He sheathed Riptide and continued his journey home, his thoughts heavy. Despite everything, he still felt a deep sense of duty, a need to protect the world, even if it cost him his happiness.
Flashback: The Last Seven Years:
Percy's thoughts drifted back to the days after the defeat of Python. For a brief time, it seemed like they might have peace. He and Annabeth moved into a small apartment in New Rome, trying to live like normal people. But the gods were never far away and they wouldn't let Percy rest.
Post-Apollo Peace:
The first year had been the easiest. They had enjoyed the quiet, spending time with friends and family, especially with his mother, Sally, and her new family. Estelle had been born, and Percy adored his little sister. Life was almost normal. Even Zeus in recognition of all he had done allowed Percy to enter his domain. Flying in peace for the first time in his life.
Olympian Interference But then the calls began. Zeus needed him to deal with a rogue giant in Canada. His father Poseidon requested his help in the Pacific Ocean. To try and calm down Pontus who had grown tired of his Oceans growing dirtier and dirtier. Each request came with dire warnings about what might happen if he refused. Annabeth had been supportive at first, understanding his sense of duty, but as the years went on, the constant danger wore on them both.
Strain on Relationships Every quest took a piece of him, and every return home felt shorter. Annabeth watched him leave time after time, each departure more painful than the last. She had her own dreams and her own ambitions, but it seemed like the gods always demanded more from Percy.
Annabeth's Career Then, the offer from Mount Olympus came. Annabeth was to design new structures that blended ancient and modern styles. It was her dream job, but it meant living on Olympus and accepting the gift of Immortality, already drifting away from Percy, She took it without even consulting him, as he was on yet another mission, and while Percy supported her upon his return, the physical distance between them mirrored the emotional gap that had grown over the years. Percy would never admit it but the betrayal he felt for her choosing the life he had given up to be with her, had begun to eat at him as well.
The Breakup:
Eventually, the strain became too much. They had a long, tearful conversation, realizing that they were on different paths. They loved each other, but love wasn't enough to bridge the divide. Annabeth moved to Olympus, and Percy continued his nomadic life, taking on quests that no one else could handle.
Percy's thoughts returned to the present as he approached his mom's apartment. It was his birthday, and he was determined to enjoy it, even if just for a moment. Sally greeted him with a warm hug, and for a little while, the weight on his shoulders lifted.
Poseidon Visit:
As the evening went on, a familiar shimmer appeared in the air, and the smell of the sea filled the room as Poseidon materialized in the living room. "Happy birthday, Percy," his father said, smiling. He handed Percy a wrapped gift, which turned out to be a beautifully crafted shield made of celestial bronze with driftwood inlays. "For protection, and a reminder that you're never alone."
Percy smiled, grateful for the gesture. As he grabbed the handle, he could feel the connection instantly. It was more than a simple shield, but Percy couldn't figure out how. Poseidon smiled with a knowing look on his face. "Push the button," he suggested. As Percy touched the button, the shield morphed into a ring with a trident seal on its head. Percy smiled, "I love it!" he said happily. They talked about the sea, family, and old times. Poseidon's presence was a comfort, a reminder of his roots and the love his family had for him.
As the night drew to a close, Percy knew this moment of peace was fleeting. The next morning, a message would come, another quest, another threat. But for now, he allowed himself to enjoy the warmth of his family, a brief respite in his endless journey.
Chapter 2: The Summoning:
The Summons came that night in his dreams. Lightning flashed as a booming voice spoke. "Perseus Jackson, You are needed. Make your way to Mount Olympus with Haste."
Percy as ever decided to keep them waiting. He took Estelle to the Zoo the next day. Only heading to the Empire State Building the day after that.
Percy made his way towards the elevator that would take him to Olympus. The guard barely glanced his way, already used to Percy's frequent ventures to Olympus. It had been two days since his birthday, and the weight of Zeus's summons was heavy on his mind. He knew he had kept the gods waiting, a deliberate act of defiance born from frustration and weariness. As he made his way towards the throne room, he couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction at having made them wait, a small act of rebellion against their constant demands.
Upon entering the throne room, Percy was met with a mixture of expressions from the assembled gods—some displaying thinly veiled annoyance, while others wore expressions of curiosity or concern. He ignored the judgmental stares and focused instead on the imposing figure of Zeus, seated regally upon his throne.
"Percy Jackson," Zeus boomed, his voice echoing throughout the chamber. "You grace us with your presence at last."
Percy met Zeus's gaze head-on, refusing to back down in the face of the god's imposing presence. "Apologies for the delay, Lord Zeus," Percy replied evenly, his tone betraying none of the frustration that churned within him.
Zeus's expression remained impassive, though Percy could sense the simmering tension that lingered beneath the surface. "Your tardiness is noted," Zeus said, his voice clipped. "But we have more pressing matters to attend to."
Percy resisted the urge to roll his eyes at Zeus's thinly veiled reprimand. Instead, he squared his shoulders and prepared himself for whatever task the gods had deemed necessary for him.
"Two days ago, You celebrated your birth, an important moment for our world" Zeus began, his tone grave. "But today, we have a matter of grave importance to discuss."
Percy's stomach clenched as he braced himself for the revelation of his next quest. He knew that whatever task lay ahead would not be easy, but he was determined to face it head-on, regardless of the consequences.
"Nyx, the primordial goddess of night, has begun to stir once more," Zeus continued, his voice echoing with the weight of the news. "Her resurgence threatens to plunge both mortal and divine realms into darkness."
Percy's mind raced as he absorbed the gravity of the situation.
Not Tartarus he thought, anywhere but there.
But instead, he said, "if I am to go back there I don't know If I will return. It was pure luck that I and Annabeth made it out last time. I'd have to consult Nico and Uncle H first.
Even then I'm doubtful, Nyx was not to be taken lightly, her power immense and her motives inscrutable."
He knew that facing her would be no small feat, but he was prepared to do whatever it took to protect both worlds from her wrath. Zeus ever so slightly paled. Even he as an Elder god and one of the big three did not enter the pit lightly.
Just then a voice cold and yet warm spoke. "Consult me now Nephew, but not about entry there. The Council would never send anyone there, especially a mortal" Percy Looked to his uncle and smiled weakly, only now letting fear take him as he no longer needed to be brave. "Good I am grateful, I feared that would be the request, anything other than that will be simple in comparison". Hades smiled slightly, imperceptible to all but the few who knew him or his children well enough. And Percy knew Nico far too well to miss it.
"What would you have me do, Lord Zeus?" Percy asked, his voice steady despite the turmoil within.
"You are to seek out any information regarding Nyx's resurgence," Zeus commanded, his tone brooking no argument. "Gather what allies you can, for this task will not be easy."
Percy nodded in understanding, his resolve hardening with each passing moment. He may have kept the gods waiting, but he was determined to make up for lost time by throwing himself wholeheartedly into the task ahead.
But before he could turn to leave his father spoke,
"So yet again you deem to send my Son into danger, nay not just danger but certain death. Over and Over again you do this, he has given enough to Olympus. Let him rest brother".
Percy hadn't expected this, nor did he expect the sincerity in his father's voice or the anger in his eyes. But before he could speak, Hades beat him to it.
"Brother, Zeus has come to me. To my very palace, He has taken counsel with me about your request. We have both concurred that your desire shall be granted.
The three stand United in purpose not seen since the first war against our father. Your request is granted" Poseidon looked shocked. "Truly?" Zeus answered him this time, and whatever Percy expected it was not what was said next. "You're right brother, I will follow your lead on this one. After all he has done for us, yes, I concur." Poseidon smiled.
"Very well. It's settled then" The sea god spoke. "What is settled?" Percy asked. "Not yet son, finish this last quest and all will be revealed." With that Percy knew better than to press it. The meeting was done.
As Percy turned to leave, he felt a hand on his shoulder, and he turned to see Poseidon standing behind him, his expression a mixture of pride and sadness. "You will do us proud, Percy," Poseidon said, his voice soft but tinged with emotion.
Percy searched his father's eyes for answers, but Poseidon simply offered him a reassuring smile before turning away. With a heavy heart, Percy exited the throne room, as he made his way down back towards the mortal realm he heard his name.
"Percy!" cried Apollo, "Lester!" Percy called back, and then he saw her, Artemis was scowling at Percy. "Why do you call him that? It's disrespectful." Artemis said with disdain.
"Sorry," Percy muttered, Most gods he'd give a rude retort or even roll his eyes but Artemis, well Artemis is one of the few gods besides his Father, Hestia, and Apollo that he respects.
Unlike most gods, she's active in the world of the mortals, and she was a friend to Zoe.
"Be nice Arty, it's a compliment. It means I've not become the jerk I was and most gods still are.
You ok Perce? You look sad." asked Apollo "I'm fine, just a memory of an old friend." Percy answered. "Who?" Apollo inquired.
"Someone I should think about more often, strange what time does to you as it passes…."
Artemis looked uncomfortable and Apollo looked angry. "See this is what I was talking about Arty, They have no concern for anyone but themselves. Heroes like Percy lose and lose and what is their reward? More loss!"
"Apollo, Artemis said exasperated, I just got you back, please shut your mouth before they turn you into something worse than Lester."
"I liked Lester." Said Percy.
Artemis scowled, "of course you did." she said. "and I understand your anger Apollo, but Percy chooses this life, he wants to save others, it isn't fair but So many people are alive today because of Percy."
"He Chooses this life? What choice did we give him? Hey Percy, do this suicidal quest or we'll have to give it to one of your friends or worse one of the new generation of demigods, you know the ones you found, saved, and trained, thanks! We should do this again soon! How about next week!?"
Artemis got really uncomfortable, Percy could tell, he felt bad for her, "Hey Apollo its cool really, I don't want you and Artemis fighting on my account."
"And what if he dies?" Continued Apollo, His mother, his friends, and Olympus help me but I'm his friend aswell, I won't lose anyone else, not like Jason. why do they have to take from everyone? It isn't fair. He lost Annabeth and a chance at true happiness because we can't just leave him alone!" Artemis scowled at her brothers last remark, she was getting angry and so was Apollo.
"Hey guys, I'm still here, Percy said trying to remind them it's rude to drudge up his personal life.
"But honestly, I gave up minding a long time ago. I'm content with my fate" Percy said sadly before waving goodbye and leaving.
Outside, the grandeur of Mount Olympus seemed to mock him, a stark reminder of the weight of his responsibilities as both a demigod and a son of Poseidon. But Percy squared his shoulders and set his jaw, determined to face whatever dangers lay ahead with courage and determination.
The quest for Nyx had begun, and Percy Jackson would stop at nothing to ensure that light triumphed over darkness and Olympus once more stood triumphant.
Chapter 3 - (POV) Artemis:
"Sorry," Percy had muttered, an unusual deference in his voice. Most gods would have received a rude retort or an eye roll from him, but not Artemis, Percy respected her, one of the few gods besides his father. "Be nice, Arty," Apollo had said, attempting to lighten the mood. "It's a compliment. It means I've not become the jerk I was and most gods still are."
Apollo looked at his friend "You okay, Perce? You look sad."
"I'm fine, just a memory of an old friend," Percy had answered, his voice tinged with melancholy.
"Who?" Apollo inquired.
"Someone I should think about more often, strange what time does to you as it passes…." Percy's voice trailed off, and Artemis felt a pang of discomfort. Apollo's expression had shifted to one of anger.
"See this is what I was talking about Arty, They have no concern for anyone but themselves. Heroes like Percy lose and lose and what is their reward? More loss!"
"Apollo, Artemis said exasperated, I just got you back, please shut your mouth before they turn you into something worse than Lester."
"I liked Lester." Said Percy.
Artemis scowled, "of course you did." she said. "and I understand your anger Apollo, but Percy chooses this life, he wants to save others, it isn't fair but So many people are alive today because of Percy."
"He Chooses this life? What choice did we give him? Hey Percy, do this suicidal quest or we'll have to give it to one of your friends or worse one of the new generation of demigods, you know the ones you found, saved, and trained, thanks! We should do this again soon! How about next week!?"
Artemis got really uncomfortable she felt a pang of regret, she cared deeply for him, though she wasn't sure if he knew that or not. She had been confused about him ever sense he broke up with Annabeth. She had been actively avoiding him since. She had been one of his loudest advocates on the council and she wondered if he had noticed her coolness lately. "Hey Apollo it's cool really, I don't want you and Artemis fighting on my account." Why must he be like this, he hasn't changed. He's the same wonderful person he was back when he took the weight of the sky from her.
"And what if he dies?" Continued Apollo, His mother, his friends, and Olympus help me but I'm his friend aswell, I won't lose anyone else, not like Jason. why do they have to take from everyone? It isn't fair. He lost Annabeth and a chance at true happiness because we can't just leave him alone!" Artemis scowled at her brothers last remark, she was getting angry and so was Apollo.
"Hey guys, I'm still here, Percy said trying to remind them it's rude to drudge up his personal life.
"But honestly, I gave up minding a long time ago. I'm content with my fate" Percy said sadly before waving goodbye and leaving.
Artemis watched Percy's retreating figure she remembered that perfect day after he defeated Kronos and freed her mother. She noticed how the grandeur of Mount Olympus stood stark against the sky, a symbol of the Olympian's power, and yet despite this power they seemed to continue to heap responsibility after responsibility upon Perseus's shoulders. She sighed, a rare sound from her, and turned her gaze to Apollo.
"See," Artemis had said, attempting to reassure herself more than her brother. "He's fine."
"You know, sister, it used to be me who was deaf to others' feelings. Looks like we traded places." Apollo had teleported away, leaving Artemis alone with her thoughts.
As Percy left, Artemis tried not to think of the troubles she and her kin had added for him to shoulder. But Percyas always merely squared his shoulders and set his jaw, determined to face whatever dangers lay ahead with courage and determination.
Artemis's mind wandered back to their conversation and then further back to the first time she had met Percy. He had been a brash young demigod, full of energy and hope. His sea-green eyes had sparkled with mischief and determination. His black hair had been short and unruly, matching his carefree spirit. He had asked her who she thought she was, and Zoe had been offended for her mistress's sake.
Zoe... She had formed an unexpected friendship with Percy, even receiving her blessing to wield her old sword. Though Artemis would never admit it, she harbored intense feelings for Percy that both confused and frightened her. She couldn't forget how he had freed her mother and the other peaceful Titans after the war with the Titans, using his wish selflessly. He had been adamant that the gods needed to see his wish threw, he ensured their release. She still remembers Seeing her mother again for the first time in many years, and the first time when her mother was free. She struggled with her emotions, she had tried to keep her distance from Percy, to ignore what he had done. She was confused and angry at Apollo for putting her in such an awkward position. But her mother had scolded her. Artemis smiled at the memory, Leto forced her to go with her and Apollo to dinner with Perseus near her new home in Florida. To thank the Son of Poseidon properly. Artemis was not happy with her mother, but in the end, it became one of her fondest memories of her entire immortal life. He like always handled the situation with humility. He impressed her mother greatly and Artemis has had to suffer through many a family dinner hearing her mother go on and on about the humble and dashing Perseus Jackson.
Now, years after that war, Percy had changed a lot, gone was the young man who sailed to Greece with the Seven. She looked him over noticing the changes he'd undergone, his hair was long, often tied into a bun, and he sported a thick beard. His eyes still held their characteristic brightness, but they were tinged with a weariness and sadness that spoke of countless battles and losses. The boy she had first met was now a man, a hero burdened by the weight of the world.
Apollo's words echoed in her mind. "Heroes like Percy lose and lose, and what is their reward? More loss!" She couldn't deny the truth in her brother's words. Percy had sacrificed so much, and the gods continued to demand more from him.
Artemis sighed again, She admired Percy's resilience, but she couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt. She had always believed in the greater good, in the necessity of sacrifice for the survival of many. Yet, maybe she was being a hypocrite, seeing Percy struggle so much made her wish to pawn the quests off on some other hero, one she cared nothing for. She wondered if they were asking too much from him.
She respected Percy deeply, not just for his deeds but for who he was as a person, as a man. He was one of the rare mortals who had earned her genuine respect and the list that had earned her respect who were also men, was well short.. But respect did not ease the burden of her role or the guilt that gnawed at her when she saw the toll their demands took on him. Could Apollo be right? Were they forcing Percy to help them? Were they taking advantage of his fatal flaw? Was she complicit in the destruction of the Greatest hero Olympus has ever seen, were they tricking him? She didn't know, she hadn't accepted her feelings, how could she judge her kin. Artemis glanced around the throne room, her gaze landing on the empty thrones of her fellow Olympians. She knew they all had their reasons, their justifications for why Percy was the one to face Nyx. But as she stood there, alone with her thoughts, she couldn't shake the feeling that they were all complicit in the suffering of a hero who had already given so much.
With a heavy heart, she left the throne room, her mind filled with thoughts of Percy Jackson and the unfair burdens he bore. She vowed to herself that she would do everything in her power to ensure that this quest would not break him. Because heroes like Percy deserved more than just loss; they deserved a chance at happiness and peace.
Chapter 4: Gathering the Seven:
Percy stood at the edge of the woods, looking out over Camp Half-Blood. The familiar sights and sounds filled him with a bittersweet sense of nostalgia. It had been six days since his birthday, four days since he had made the gods wait for him on Mount Olympus. Now, he had a new quest, a daunting task that weighed heavily on his mind. But first, he needed to gather his friends—the Seven, the ones who had fought by his side in the most challenging battles.
The camp was bustling with activity as demigods trained and prepared for their daily routines. Percy made his way toward the Big House, where he knew Chiron would be. As he approached, he spotted Nico di Angelo standing by the porch, his usual dark attire making him stand out among the campers.
"Nico!" Percy called out, waving.
Nico turned and gave a rare smile. "Percy, it's good to see you."
Percy clasped Nico's hand in a firm handshake, pulling him into a brief hug. "You too. We've got a lot to talk about."
They walked together into the Big House, where Chiron greeted them with a warm smile. After a brief catch-up, Percy explained his new quest and the need to gather their old friends.
"Are you sure about this, Percy?" Chiron asked, his voice tinged with concern. "It's been a long time since the Seven have been together. Their circumstances have all changed, they all live very different lives, they may not come."
"No they will come they won't abandon each other not after all we've been through," Percy replied, determination in his eyes. No one said anything about Annabeth and how she couldn't come even if she wished to. They didn't want to hurt Percy any more than he was already.
Nico nodded in agreement. "I'll contact the others. They'll want to know what's going on."
They spent the next few hours reaching out to their friends. Piper McLean and her boyfriend, Jason Grace, had once been part of the Seven, but Jason had tragically died in battle. Piper was now living a quieter life, trying to find peace away from the chaos. Hazel Levesque and Frank Zhang were in New Rome, helping rebuild the Roman demigod community. Leo Valdez and Calypso were traveling the world, exploring new places and finding adventure.
One by one, they responded, each expressing their willingness to join Percy on this new quest. However, there was a noticeable absence—Annabeth Chase. She had chosen the immortal life on Mount Olympus, trading the life of a hero for a different kind of responsibility. Percy respected her decision, but it still hurt to think about her being so far away, living a life he couldn't be a part of.
As they waited for the others to arrive, Percy and Nico walked around the camp, reminiscing about old times. It was a bittersweet walk down memory lane, filled with laughter and moments of silence as they remembered friends they had lost along the way.
Two days later, the Seven were reunited. Hazel and Frank arrived from New Rome, their presence bringing a sense of strength and stability. Piper showed up with a quiet determination, her eyes reflecting the pain of losing Jason but also the resolve to keep fighting. Leo and Calypso appeared last, their arrival marked by a burst of laughter and a flurry of hugs.
"Looks like the gang's all here," Leo said, grinning widely. "Well, almost."
Percy nodded. "Almost. Annabeth won't be joining us. She's got her own responsibilities now."
There was a moment of silence as everyone absorbed this news. Annabeth had been a crucial part of their team, and her absence was deeply felt. But they understood her decision and respected it. Calypso looked at Percy, both sadness and anger in her eyes. She remembered their time spent on her island and all he had given up to be reunited with the daughter of Athena. He and the others may not hold a grudge against her, but Calypso did—Leo as well, He came to see her point of view once he realized her feelings came from a place of friendship and nothing more. After their many talks during their worldwide adventure, he began to feel bad for his friend and grew rather protective of the Son of Poseidon.
"We've got some new faces to help us out," Percy said, breaking the silence. "Clarisse La Rue and Will Solace will be joining us. They're strong fighters, and we're going to need all the strength we can get."
Clarisse, the headstrong daughter of Ares, and Will, the skilled healer and son of Apollo, stepped forward. They had been friends and allies in many battles, and their addition to the group brought a renewed sense of purpose.
"Alright, let's do this," Clarisse said, her voice filled with determination. "We've got a world to save."
Will nodded. "And I'll be here to patch you all up when you get hurt."
Percy smiled, feeling a surge of hope. Despite the losses and the challenges ahead, he had his friends by his side. Together, they had faced unimaginable dangers and emerged victorious. This time would be no different.
They spent the rest of the day planning and preparing, each of them contributing their unique skills and knowledge. As the sun set over Camp Half-Blood, they gathered around the campfire, sharing stories and strengthening their bonds.
"So Nico, any rumblings from the land down under?" Asked Percy. Nico smirked at Percy's name for his father's kingdom, "Sadly no, But also perhaps that is good. No mass monster breakout. No rebellions. The Underworld is a realm of Order at the Moment." Percy stroked his beard. "I'd like to say that is good, but perhaps Nyx learned from Gaia, maybe she's working from the shadows." Clarisse groaned. "Really seaweed brain?" Percy laughed. "Nico and Will should lead this quest. They have the most experience dealing with Nyx."
Nico sighed. "We have the most experience running from Nyx, but if that is what you want Perce we've got your back brother." Percy smiled and looked around at his friends, feeling a deep sense of gratitude. They were more than just allies; they were family. And no matter what lay ahead, he knew they would face it together.
Chapter 5: Seeking Answers:
The Seven, now reunited and bolstered by the addition of Clarisse and Will, spent the next few days at Camp Half-Blood. Their initial joy at being together again was quickly tempered by the seriousness of their mission. They dove into research, scouring ancient texts and consulting the camp's wisest inhabitants to uncover any clues about the rising threat of Nyx.
Percy and his friends huddled in the Big House library, poring over dusty tomes and scrolls. Nico di Angelo, always a figure of mystery and determination, seemed particularly driven. He had an idea that might lead them to answers.
"Nico, you seem to have something on your mind," Hazel said, looking up from a thick book of prophecies.
Nico nodded. "I think it's time we called on someone who might have inside information. I'm going to try to get Nemesis's attention."
"Nemesis? The goddess of revenge?" Frank asked, his eyebrows rising. "Are you sure that's a good idea?"
Nico shrugged. "We need answers, and she might have them. Besides, she has a unique perspective on the balance of power among the gods and titans. If anyone knows about Nyx's plans, it could be her."
Percy glanced around at his friends. They were all tired but determined. "Alright, Nico. Let's give it a shot."
They made their way to a secluded spot by the camp's lake. Nico stood at the water's edge, concentrating. He pulled out a gold drachma and raised it high.
"O Iris, goddess of the rainbow, accept my offering," Nico intoned, then tossed the coin into the lake. A shimmering rainbow appeared, and Nico called out, "Nemesis, we seek your wisdom. Please, show yourself."
For a moment, nothing happened. Then, the water rippled, and the image of Nemesis appeared. Her stern face and piercing eyes sent a shiver through the group.
"Nico di Angelo," she said, her voice echoing with power. "Why do you call on me?"
"We need information," Nico replied. "Nyx is rising, and we need to know what she's planning. Specifically, we need to know about her first strike."
Nemesis's eyes narrowed. "Nyx's plans are dark and far-reaching. But I will tell you this: her first target will be Iapetus, the traitorous titan. You must seek him out."
"Iapetus?" Percy asked, surprised. "Why him?"
"He betrayed his own kind to help the Olympians," Nemesis said. "Nyx considers him a threat to her power. Find him, and you may find the answers you seek."
"Thank you, Nemesis," Nico said, bowing his head slightly. The goddess's image faded, leaving the group with more questions than answers.
"Who's Iapetus?" Clarisse asked, looking confused.
"He's a titan who sided with us during the last major conflict," Percy explained. "He lost his memory and was known as Bob for a while. But he regained his memory and decided to help us anyway."
"We need to find him," Piper said. "If Nyx is targeting him, he might be in danger—and he might have crucial information."
The group agreed, and they quickly began making plans to locate Iapetus. Nico used his connections to the underworld to track the titan's whereabouts. After a few hours of intense concentration and consulting with spirits, Nico found a lead.
"He's on the West Coast, near San Francisco."
A murmur of surprise went through the group. San Francisco was familiar territory, but it still posed its own set of challenges.
"Then that's where we'll go," Percy said, his voice steady.
The others nodded, their resolve hardening. They spent the next few hours gathering supplies and preparing for the journey. As the sun set over Camp Half-Blood, they stood together, ready to face the unknown once more.
With a final glance around the camp, Percy led his friends toward the entrance to the mortal world. The path ahead was fraught with danger, but they were determined to find Iapetus and uncover Nyx's plans. Their journey was just beginning, and they knew they would need every ounce of courage and strength to succeed.