Dear Readers,
I wanted to take a moment to thank you all for your incredible support and enthusiasm for this story. Your comments and feedback have meant the world to me, and I'm thrilled that you've been enjoying the journey so far.
I will be taking a break before diving into the next arcs. I do not know how long it will take me, but my vacation is coming to an end, and I will go back to work. As I will be very busy in the next months, it is why I've been updating so much this last week. I wanted to have at least ACT IV out for all of you to enjoy.
This story is planned to have seven arcs in total, spanning across 100 chapters. ACTS II through VI will focus on the events of the Percy Jackson & the Olympians series, while ACT VII will serve as a wrap-up, laying the groundwork for the final four chapters that will introduce the next generation of heroes.
Please note that this fanfiction will not cover The Heroes of Olympus series or the Second Giant War. I hope you've enjoyed the story so far and are looking forward to what's to come. Thank you for your patience and continued support—I can't wait to share the rest of this adventure with you.
Best wishes,
KURENOHIKARI;)
The return to Olympus was bittersweet, the group of demigods and their Goddess leader carrying the weight of their victory alongside the heavy burden of their loss. The grandeur of Olympus, with its towering marble columns and the glittering expanse of the Gods' domain, felt distant and cold as they landed on the platform, their hearts still raw from the events that had unfolded.
Artemis led the way, her usual regal stride softened by the grief she carried for Zoe. The moment they arrived, Apollo was there, his usual playful demeanor absent as he rushed to his sister's side. The relief on his face was palpable, and without a word, he pulled Artemis into a tight embrace, the tension of the past few days melting away.
"I'm so glad you're okay," Apollo murmured, his voice uncharacteristically soft. Artemis, usually reserved, allowed herself to lean into the comfort of her brother's embrace.
As the twins reunited, the other Gods began to appear, drawn by the return of their children and the news of their victory. Aphrodite was the next to arrive, her worry evident as she rushed to Silena's side. The Goddess of Love took one look at her daughter's white streaked hair and pulled her into a fierce hug, her eyes brimming with tears.
"Oh, my sweet Silena," Aphrodite whispered, her voice choked with emotion. "I was so worried about you. I knew you were strong, but to go through something like this…"
Silena melted into her mother's embrace, the weight of her experiences catching up to her. "It's over, Mom," she whispered back, her voice trembling. "But Zoe… she didn't make it."
Aphrodite's face softened with sorrow, and she held Silena tighter, as if trying to shield her from the pain. "She's among the stars now, my sweet pearl," Aphrodite said gently, glancing up at the sky. "She'll be watching over you."
Meanwhile, Annabeth stood a little apart from the others, her eyes flickering over the scene as if trying to absorb everything at once. She felt a presence beside her and turned to find Athena standing there, her usual stoic expression softened by something Annabeth had rarely seen on her mother's face: pride.
"Annabeth," Athena said quietly, her voice laced with affection. "You've done well. I'm proud of you."
The words sent a warm rush through Annabeth, even as she felt a pang of guilt for feeling anything positive in the wake of Zoe's death. But she managed a small smile, her heart swelling at the rare display of emotion from her mother. "Thank you, mother," she replied softly, leaning into the brief, rare embrace Athena offered.
Across the platform, Hades appeared, his dark form standing out against the gleaming white of Olympus. His gaze immediately found Bianca, and without hesitation, he crossed the distance between them. The usually intimidating God of the Underworld showed none of his usual aloofness as he wrapped his arms around his daughter, holding her close.
"Bianca," Hades murmured, his voice low and filled with emotion. "I'm so glad you're safe."
Bianca, who had faced more than her fair share of darkness, finally allowed herself to relax in her father's arms. She might not be as close to him as Nico is, but the comfort eased some of the tension she had been carrying. "It was tough, Dad," she admitted, her voice small. "But we made it."
Persephone appeared beside them, her ethereal beauty almost glowing as she reached out to touch Bianca's hair, smoothing it gently. "You've grown so strong, Bianca," Persephone said softly, her eyes filled with warmth. "We're both so proud of you."
As the Gods and their children shared these moments of reunion, the background noise of chatter, embraces, and reassurances all faded into a dull roar for Thalia. She stood apart from the others, her usually fierce expression clouded with guilt and sorrow. The events of the battle played over and over in her mind, the image of Zoe taking that fatal blow meant for her seared into her memory.
Zoe had died for her.
Zoe, who Thalia had misjudged, who she had clashed with, had sacrificed everything to save her. The realization felt like a knife twisting in her chest, and she couldn't shake the overwhelming sense of guilt that came with it. She should have seen Zoe for who she truly was sooner, should have made peace with her instead of fighting. But now it was too late, and that knowledge was crushing.
Thalia's hands clenched into fists, her nails digging into her palms as she tried to hold back the tears that threatened to spill over. She felt awful, guilty beyond words, and she didn't know how to make it right.
"Thalia?"
The voice pulled her out of her spiraling thoughts, and she looked up to see Annabeth standing in front of her, concern etched on her face. "Are you okay?" Annabeth asked gently, already knowing the answer but needing to hear it from her friend.
Thalia forced a nod, though she knew Annabeth could see right through her. "I'm fine," she lied, her voice strained. "Just… thinking."
Annabeth's eyes softened with understanding. "Zoe made her choice, Thalia," she said quietly. "She did it because she believed in you, in all of us. You can't blame yourself for that."
Thalia's resolve cracked, and she looked away, her voice breaking. "But I do, Annabeth. I misjudged her. I pushed her away, and when we finally started to get along… she dies for me. How can I not feel guilty?"
Annabeth reached out, placing a comforting hand on Thalia's arm. "You can feel guilty," she said softly. "But don't let it consume you. Zoe wouldn't want that. She saw something in you worth saving, Thalia. Honor her by being the person she believed you could be."
Thalia swallowed hard, her emotions a tangled mess inside her. But she nodded, knowing Annabeth was right. Zoe's sacrifice couldn't be in vain. She had to find a way to make peace with this, to carry Zoe's memory with her, not as a burden, but as a source of strength.
"Thanks, Annabeth," Thalia murmured, her voice thick with emotion.
Annabeth offered her a small, supportive smile. "We're all here for you, Thalia. You don't have to carry this alone."
Thalia nodded again, feeling a flicker of comfort in Annabeth's words. The pain was still there, the guilt still gnawing at her, but maybe—just maybe—she could find a way to live with it.
It was a vow she intended to keep, no matter what the future held.
Thalia was still lost in the whirlwind of her thoughts, when a sudden, booming voice snapped her out of her reverie.
"Let's bring this session to order," Zeus commanded, his voice echoing through the grand hall of Olympus, bringing silence to the gathering.
The other Gods shifted in their seats, their attention focused on the King of the Gods. Persephone, who had been standing beside Hades, offered one last comforting glance to Bianca before she was dismissed from the proceedings, as her place was not among the Olympians. With a graceful nod, she disappeared, leaving the rest to their council.
Zeus, standing tall and imposing, turned his gaze to the four demigods who had just returned from their harrowing quest. His expression was stern, but there was a glimmer of approval in his stormy eyes. "You have done well," he began, his voice carrying a weight of authority. "The success of your quest has brought honor to Olympus, and for that, you have our gratitude."
The four demigods stood at attention, their emotions still raw from their recent loss. Thalia, for her part, felt a strange detachment, like she was watching everything from a distance. Zeus's praise felt hollow, as if it couldn't reach the parts of her that were still grieving Zoe.
Zeus's gaze shifted to Silena, who stood beside Aphrodite, her shoulders slightly tense. "I am aware," Zeus continued, his voice heavy with the weight of his words, "that you were used against your will, daughter of Aphrodite, as a spy for Luke Castellan. But your bravery in defying him, and your unwavering support for Artemis while she was trapped, has not gone unnoticed. For your actions, your sins will be forgiven."
Silena let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding, her shoulders relaxing as relief washed over her. Aphrodite, who had been watching her daughter with an anxious expression, smiled contentedly, her eyes shining with pride. She placed a hand on Silena's shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze.
"You did well, my dear," Aphrodite whispered, her voice filled with affection.
Silena smiled up at her mother, the tension finally easing from her features. "Thank you, Mom," she said softly, the weight of guilt she had been carrying for so long finally lifting slightly.
Apollo, who had been leaning casually against his throne, straightened up with a grin. "Well, since we're handing out praises," he said with his usual flair, "I've got something for you guys, too." With a flourish, he produced a set of scrolls, each bearing the insignia of the sun.
"These," Apollo said, handing one to each of the demigods, "are your letters of recommendation. You've earned them, and then some. Seriously, you guys kicked butt out there."
Thalia accepted her scroll with a small nod, though the usual excitement she might have felt at receiving such an honor was tempered by the sadness still weighing on her heart. She tucked the scroll into her belt, her mind elsewhere as Zeus continued.
"And now, Thalia," Zeus said, his voice taking on a more serious tone. "Your sixteenth birthday is next week."
The words hung in the air like a heavy cloud, drawing the attention of everyone in the room. Thalia stiffened, her heart skipping a beat as she realized where this was going.
Zeus's gaze bore into her, his expression intent. "You know what this means," he said. "You could be the child of the prophecy. The one who brings victory for Olympus."
Across the room, Hades and Poseidon both rolled their eyes at their brother's melodramatic proclamation. Hades, in particular, looked unimpressed, his focus more on Bianca than on Zeus's speech.
Thalia felt a surge of anxiety rising within her, but it was quickly replaced by a wave of clarity. She knew what she had to do. There was no question in her mind anymore.
Steeling herself, Thalia stepped forward, meeting her father's gaze with a newfound resolve. "Father," she began, her voice steady but firm, "I have no desire to be the child of the prophecy."
Zeus's eyes widened slightly, a flicker of surprise crossing his features. "What are you saying?" he asked, his tone a mix of confusion and wariness.
Thalia took a deep breath, her next words coming from the deepest part of her heart. "I want to honor Zoe by becoming a huntress. I want to serve Artemis, to protect those who can't protect themselves, just like Zoe did."
A murmur of surprise rippled through the assembly, but Artemis's expression softened with understanding. The Goddess stepped forward, her gaze warm as she regarded Thalia. "You have made a wise choice, Thalia Grace," Artemis said, her voice gentle. "You will be welcomed among the Hunt as a sister, as Zoe would have wanted."
Thalia's heart swelled with a mix of sorrow and pride as she met Artemis's gaze. This was the right path for her, the one that would allow her to honor Zoe's memory and forge her own destiny.
"I accept," Thalia said, her voice strong with conviction.
Artemis nodded approvingly, then turned her gaze to Annabeth, who had been watching the exchange with a contemplative expression. "What about you, Annabeth?" Artemis asked. "Would you like to join the Hunt as well?"
Annabeth hesitated, her thoughts racing. She glanced at Thalia, now standing proudly as a new Huntress, and thought of Zoe's sacrifice, something shifted inside her. Zoe had given everything to protect them, to protect the world, and now Thalia was following in her footsteps. Annabeth realized that this was an opportunity to be part of something bigger, to honor Zoe's legacy and to carve out her own path.
She looked up at Artemis, her decision made. "Yes," Annabeth said, her voice clear and resolute. "I would be honored to join the Hunt, Lady Artemis."
A ripple of surprise passed through the gathered Gods and demigods, but Artemis smiled warmly, clearly pleased with Annabeth's choice. "Welcome to the Hunt, Annabeth Chase," Artemis said, her voice filled with approval. "You will be a valuable addition to our sisterhood."
Thalia, standing nearby, gave Annabeth a supportive nod. "You made the right choice," she said softly, and Annabeth felt warmth spread through her chest.
As Artemis welcomed Annabeth into the Hunt, Aphrodite shifted uncomfortably in her seat, her concern now focused on her own daughter. When Artemis's gaze turned to Silena, Aphrodite's anxiety spiked.
Artemis' expression unreadable as she regarded the daughter of Aphrodite. "And what about you, Silena? Would you consider joining the Hunt?"
Aphrodite, who had been watching the proceedings with a mix of interest and concern, practically leapt from her throne. "Hold on just a moment!" she exclaimed, her voice tinged with panic. "That's my daughter you're talking to, Artemis. I will not have you turning one of my precious girls into an eternal maiden!"
Silena laughed, a light, genuine sound that cut through the tension. "No worries, Mom," she said, her voice teasing. "I've got a boyfriend I love, and I plan on returning to him."
Aphrodite visibly relaxed, a satisfied smile spreading across her face. "That's my girl," she cooed, brushing the lock of white hair out of Silena's face.
Artemis nodded in acknowledgment, understanding the depth of Silena's commitment to her mortal life. "Very well," she said, then turned her gaze to Bianca. "Bianca di Angelo, you have shown great courage and wisdom on this quest. Would you accept the position of my new lieutenant?"
Bianca's eyes widened in shock, her gaze flickering to her father, Hades, who stood nearby. Hades's usual stoic demeanor cracked, revealing a glimmer of pride in his dark eyes. He gave Bianca an encouraging nod and a soft smile.
After a moment of contemplation, Bianca squared her shoulders and stepped forward. "I would be honored, Lady Artemis," she said, her voice filled with determination.
Artemis smiled warmly. "Then it is done. You will be my new lieutenant, Bianca. You will lead the Huntresses and guide them as Zoe did before you."
Meanwhile, back at Camp Half-Blood, the sun was beginning to set, casting a warm, golden light over the camp as Mr. D returned with Silena. The moment she stepped off the chariot, the Aphrodite Cabin erupted in cheers, rushing to greet her. Among them, Charles pushed his way to the front, his face a mix of worry and overwhelming relief.
"Silena!" Charles called out, his voice cracking with emotion. Without a second thought, he pulled her into a tight embrace, holding her as if he'd never let go. Silena, who had been holding herself together through sheer force of will, finally allowed herself to relax in his arms, feeling the tension drain away.
"I'm okay, Charlie," Silena whispered, though her voice wavered with the weight of everything she'd been through. "I'm here."
Charles didn't say anything, just held her tighter, his face buried in her hair. The rest of the Aphrodite Cabin surrounded them, chattering excitedly, but giving the couple a respectful distance. Even Drew seemed content with having her older sister back, which was big considering that Drew would be losing power. They were just happy to have their sister back safe and sound.
Mr. D, ever the picture of disinterest, finally spoke up, addressing the gathered demigods. "Yes, yes, all very touching," he drawled, waving a hand dismissively. "But let's not forget the real news here. My sis' lieutenant was slayed by her Titan of a father, inspired by her sacrifice Annie Girl and Pine Girl have both joined the Hunt."
A murmur ran through the crowd, with the huntresses present lowering their heads in solemnity for their fallen lieutenant, Zoe. The weight of her sacrifice still hung heavily in the air, a reminder of the cost of their victories.
Nico stood a little apart from the others, his expression pensive. Percy noticed his friend's quiet demeanor and moved closer, sensing that Nico had more to say.
"What's going on?" Percy asked, his voice soft so as not to draw too much attention.
Nico glanced up, his dark eyes meeting Percy's. "Bianca," he began, his voice tinged with a mix of pride and something heavier, "she's the new lieutenant of Artemis."
Percy blinked, processing the news. "That's… that's huge," he said, trying to wrap his head around it. He could see the pride in Nico's eyes, but there was also a shadow of something else—perhaps a recognition of how much had changed, and how much more lay ahead.
Nico nodded, his gaze drifting to the horizon. "My parents are throwing a party in the Underworld to celebrate her success," he continued. "They're really proud of her. And, well, I need to shadow travel the Hunt there so they can join the celebration."
Percy watched Nico as he spoke, noticing the way his friend's shoulders tensed slightly, the way his expression shifted between pride and something deeper, something more somber. There was a lot going on beneath the surface, but Nico was always good at keeping things close to the chest.
"Guess that means you're heading out soon, then," Percy said, trying to keep his tone light, but feeling a pang of something—maybe loneliness, maybe something else—at the thought of Nico leaving again so soon.
Nico gave a small nod. "Yeah. It won't be long, but… you know how it is."
Percy did know. Life as a demigod was never still, never simple. And now, with Bianca a Huntress and Annabeth and Thalia gone as well, everything felt different. More… final.
"Hey," Percy said, reaching out to clap Nico on the shoulder, "tell Bianca congratulations for me, okay? And… have fun at the party."
Nico managed a small smile, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "I will," he promised, his tone sincere.
As Nico turned to gather the Huntresses for their journey, Percy felt a strange, heavy weight settle in his chest. He watched as the group gathered, then, in a swirl of shadows, they were gone. Percy stood there, as realization hit him like a wave crashing onto the shore. He was the last one left. The last remaining child of the Big Three.
Zeus had Thalia, Hades had Bianca and Nico. But the Fates had sworn that Nico was not the child of the Great Prophecy, and the girls would be eternal maidens which means they would never turn sixteen.
Percy was now the last option remaining.
The weight of the prophecy—the prophecy that had loomed over his head for years, that had dictated so much of his life—pressed down on him with a force that nearly stole his breath.
All this time, he'd tried to push it to the back of his mind, to focus on the here and now, on the battles and quests that kept him busy. But now, it was like there was nothing left to distract him from the cold, hard truth.
It was him. It had always been him.
Percy felt his heart pound in his chest, a mixture of fear, anger, and something else—something almost like resignation. This was his burden to bear, and it always had been. But now, with everything that had happened, with everyone else moving on to their new roles, the weight of it all felt heavier than ever.
The prophecy… it loomed over everything.
As the evening settled into twilight, Percy stood there, lost in thought. He knew he couldn't avoid it forever. The prophecy was still out there, waiting for him, and one day, he'd have to face it head-on. But for now, all he could do was keep moving forward, one step at a time. Because that's what heroes did, even when the weight of the world was on their shoulders.
Even when they were the last ones left.
- END OF ACT IV -