Chapter Fifteen: Part 2 - The Return to Olympus

Arrival at Olympus

As Percy, Annabeth, and Deno stepped through the gates of Olympus, they found themselves in a realm of breathtaking splendor. The architecture was a blend of classical Greek temples and futuristic elements, with towering columns and golden structures shimmering in the divine light. The air was filled with the scent of ambrosia and the soft hum of celestial energy.

Meeting the Gods

In the grand hall, they were greeted by the Olympian gods, who stood in a semicircle around a massive throne. Zeus, the king of the gods, sat at the center, his presence radiating power and authority. On his right was Poseidon, and on his left, Hera. The rest of the gods, including Athena, Apollo, and Hermes, watched with interest.

Zeus's voice boomed through the hall. "Welcome, Percy Jackson. You have returned the master bolt."

Percy stepped forward, holding the astrape with both hands. "I have, Lord Zeus," he said, his voice steady despite the awe he felt. "I return it to you."

Zeus stood and took the bolt, his expression inscrutable. "You have done well, Percy. Your bravery has averted a war among the gods."

Poseidon, stepping forward, looked at Percy with a mix of pride and concern. "Son, I am proud of you. You have proven yourself as a true hero."Percy met his father's gaze, emotions swirling within him. "Thank you, Father."Zeus nodded.

"You may have a moment with your father." With that, the other gods stepped back, giving Percy and Poseidon a semblance of privacy.

Percy and Poseidon's Conversation

Poseidon placed a hand on Percy's shoulder. "I wish I could have been there for you more, Percy. But the rules of the gods are strict."

"I understand," Percy replied, his voice tinged with both longing and acceptance.

"But I still have a lot of questions."Poseidon smiled gently.

"You will find your answers in time. For now, know that I am always watching over you."

A Private Audience with Zeus

As Percy and Poseidon finished their conversation, Zeus turned his attention to Deno.

"Deno, son of Silvius, I would like a word with you."Deno felt a knot tighten in his stomach but nodded.

He followed Zeus into a private chamber, the door closing behind them with a soft thud. The room was grand yet intimate, adorned with celestial maps and ancient artifacts.

Zeus, in a display of humility, shrunk his form to that of an average human."You are the son of Silvius," Zeus began, his tone thoughtful.

"Your father was a member of our pantheon until 5600 years ago. He helped us build this realm and fought alongside us. He was a good friend."

Deno's eyes narrowed slightly. "So you exiled him because you feared him."

Zeus's expression darkened for a moment. "That is not how one speaks to a god," he boomed, his voice reverberating through the chamber.

Deno's heart skipped a beat, and he felt an unspeakable fear grip him.

Seeing Deno's fear, Zeus's demeanor softened. "Listen, kid. Your father and I, along with my brothers, were friends. We did not exile him. He chose to leave. He found this solution on his own. Your father was a mystery, involved in many pantheons. After he left, we created our own lunar deity, but no matter how many lunar gods different pantheons bring forth, your father will always be the original."

Zeus leaned closer, his eyes intense but kind. "He was curious, and so are you. That curiosity can be dangerous. Remember, 'curiosity kills the cat.' Safety is paramount. Do not show off until you are very strong. It could threaten your life. Your father made pacts with every pantheon he joined, ensuring that his children could be part of them too. So do not worry, just be careful."

Deno, feeling a mix of awe and gratitude, nodded. "Thank you, and I'm sorry for my earlier words."

Zeus shrugged it off with a small smile. "Be blessed, Deno. Take this." He handed Deno a beautifully crafted short sword. "This is my 105,008th short sword, made from divine metal by elves. A gift and i have no need fot it actually any of them except 563."

The Return to Camp

With their mission complete, Percy, Annabeth, and Deno returned to Camp Half-Blood. As they walked through the camp, they were greeted with cheers and applause.

The camp was alive with celebration, a testament to the bravery and heroism of the three friends.Percy and Annabeth recounted their journey to the underworld and back, sharing the perils they faced and the triumphs they achieved.

Deno, in turn, told his story of awakening his powers and the encounter with Zeus. The campers listened in awe, their respect for Deno growing with each word.

As the sun set, the camp was filled with music and laughter.

The campers celebrated not just the return of the heroes but also the bonds of friendship and the spirit of resilience that defined them.

Epilogue

As the festivities continued, Deno found himself reflecting on the words of Zeus.

His curiosity was both a blessing and a curse, a driving force that led him to great discoveries but also posed great risks.

He knew that his journey was just beginning and that many challenges lay ahead.

But for now, he allowed himself to bask in the warmth of friendship and the joy of triumph, knowing that whatever the future held, he was ready to face it with courage and determination.

The chapter and arc end here, marking a new beginning for Percy, Annabeth, and Deno as they continue their adventures in a world where gods and heroes walk among mortals.