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Chapter Text

Note: Percy is 18 years old in this story.

Percilla Jackson thought the war was over. After the defeat of Kronos, she hoped for a semblance of normalcy, maybe even a chance to enjoy a summer without impending doom. Yet, peace for a demigod is a fleeting luxury, and as she stood on the beach at Camp Half-Blood, staring out at the rolling waves, a sense of unease gnawed at her.

The ocean was her sanctuary, a place where she felt the presence of her father, Poseidon, strongest. But today, the sea seemed different. The waves were restless, crashing against the shore with unusual ferocity. Percy could feel the power behind them, an ancient energy that called to her in a way she couldn't ignore.

"Percy," a voice called, soft but commanding. Percy turned to see Anthony approaching, his gray eyes filled with concern. "You've been out here for hours. What's going on?"

"I don't know," Percy admitted, running a hand through her long dark hair. "I feel like something's pulling me out there." She gestured to the vast expanse of water. "Like I'm supposed to go."

Anthony frowned. "Do you think it's Poseidon?"

Percy shook her head. "It doesn't feel like him. It feels... different. Stronger."

Before Anthony could respond, a massive wave surged up, crashing down on the shore and drenching them both. As the water receded, Percy felt a powerful tug, as if the ocean itself were trying to drag her in.

"Percy!" Anthony shouted, grabbing her arm. But it was too late. The water enveloped her, pulling her under with an irresistible force. She saw Anthony's panicked face for a split second before everything went dark.

When Percy awoke, she found herself lying on a cold, rocky floor. The air was thick with the scent of salt and something else, something metallic. She pushed herself up, her body aching, and looked around. She was in a cavern, the walls shimmering with a faint, eerie light.

"Welcome, Percilla Jackson," a voice echoed through the chamber.

Percy spun around to see a figure emerging from the shadows. He was tall and imposing, with golden-blonde hair that flows like waves and icy blue eyes that glowed with an intensity that made Percy's heart race. The man donned an ornamental patterned golden choker and dark blue clothing with a golden border that covers the entire upper half of his body, revealing his abdomen and chest. Around his biceps, he wore a pair of golden rings. This was not the Poseidon she knew. This was someone else entirely.

"Who are you?" Percy demanded, reaching for Riptide, but finding her sword missing.

The figure smiled, a predatory glint in his eyes. "I am Poseidon," he said, his voice smooth and hypnotic. "But not the one you know. I come from another realm, a place where gods and mortals clash in a battle for survival. And I have chosen you, Percy."

"Chosen me for what?" Percy asked, trying to keep her voice steady.

Poseidon's smile widened, showing shark-like teeth. "For my champion. My beloved. In my world, gods do not simply command respect; we take what we desire. And I desire you, Percilla Jackson."

What did he just say?! Desire me?!

Percy's heart pounded rapidly in her chest. This Poseidon was different, more intense, more possessive. She took a step back, but the god moved faster, closing the distance between them in an instant.

"You don't have to be afraid," Poseidon whispered, his hand brushing Percy's cheek. "I will protect you, cherish you. You will never want for anything."

Percy shivered at the touch, a mix of fear and something else swirling within her. "I don't belong here," she said, her voice shaking. "I need to get back to my world, to my mom and friends!" She jerked away from his touch. "And I have a boyfriend!"

Poseidon's expression darkened. He lashed out, grabbing her arm with a tight grip. "Your world is no longer your concern, especially that insignificant half-breed! You are mine now, Percilla, and I will not let anyone take you from me!"

Percy struggled, but this Poseidon's strength was overwhelming. She could feel the god's power, an ancient and unyielding force that wrapped around her like the ocean's depths.

"You will come to love me," Poseidon murmured, his lips inches from Percy's ear. "In time, you will see that this is where you belong."

Tears of frustration and fear welled up in Percy's eyes. "I'll never love you," she spat.

Poseidon chuckled darkly, a sound that sent chills down Percy's spine. "We shall see, my beloved. We shall see."

As the god's arms wrapped around her, pulling her closer, Percy knew she was trapped. But she also knew one thing for certain: she would find a way to escape. She had to. For her friends, her family, her world, and freedom.

The ocean's embrace was cold and unrelenting, but Percy Jackson was not one to give up easily. She would fight, no matter the cost.

Chapter Text

Poseidon raised his hand, and the cavern around them dissolved into a blur of colors and light. In an instant, Percy found herself in a different place entirely—Poseidon's domain. The environment was ethereal, with towering pillars of coral, bioluminescent plants, and a vast ocean stretching infinitely around them.

Percy continue struggling in Poseidon's hold, her anger and fear fueling her movements. She tried to fight him off, twisting and turning, but his grip was unyielding.

"Let me go!" Percy screamed, her voice echoing through the watery expanse.

Poseidon's grip tightened momentarily before he gently set her down on a platform of shimmering seashells. "Please, Percy. Listen to me."

Breathing heavily, Percy glared at him. "Why do you want me? What makes you think you can just take me away from everything I know?"

Poseidon's gaze softened slightly, and he released his grip just enough for Percy to step back. He sighed, an ancient weariness in his eyes, and began to speak.

"It is not an easy story to tell," he said. "But you deserve to know the truth."

Percy folded her arms, keeping a wary distance. "Then tell me."

Poseidon turned away, his golden-blonde hair shimmering in the cavern's eerie light as he began to recount the tale.

"It began with Chaos, the first primordial being, the origin of all things and creator of the universe. Chaos looked upon the world and saw the gods' dispassion, our lack of empathy for the mortals we were meant to guide and protect. Chaos decided to intervene, to teach us the value of understanding and compassion."

Percy listened, her curiosity piqued despite her fear.

"Chaos chose you, Percy," The sea god that is not her father continued. "Your life, from the moment you discovered your true heritage, was shown to us on a grand screen. We watched you grow, face dangers, and overcome insurmountable odds. Chaos believed that by watching your struggles, triumphs, and pains as a demigod, we would learn to...empathize with mortals."

Percy's eyes widened. "You...you watched my entire life?"

Poseidon nodded. "Not entirely, but from the moment you found out you were a demigod, through every quest, every battle. We saw your courage, your loyalty to your friends, and your unwavering spirit."

Percy's mind whirled, the realization sinking in. "So, Chaos did this to make you more empathetic with mortals despite me being half mortal?"

"Yes," Poseidon replied. "Chaos wanted to instill in us a deeper understanding of humans and why us gods should not prepare to destroy them. But for me, it went beyond just mere empathy."

Poseidon eyes locked onto Percy's with a profound intensity. "As I watched you, I felt something I had never experienced before. I saw your strength, your resilience, and your heart. I saw you, Percy Jackson, and I fell in love with you."

Percy took a step back, her pulse racing. "But you don't even know me. You've just... watched me."

"I know it sounds strange," Poseidon said gently. "But through watching your life, I came to understand you in ways words cannot express. Your spirit, your essence—it captivated me. I could not help but fall for you, despite the distance between our worlds."

Percy shook her head, trying to process everything. "This is insane. I really need to go back. I can't stay here with you."

Poseidon's expression darkened once more. "You belong here with me, Percilla Jackson. I will not let you go."

"You can't just keep me here!" Percy shouted, her frustration boiling over. "I have a life in my world with the people who care about me! I will not abandon them!"

Poseidon's eyes remained unyielding. "I understand your feelings, but my love for you is boundless. I will do whatever it takes to protect you and keep you by my side. In time, you will see that this is where you are meant to be."

Her chest ached with a mix of fear and determination. Percy couldn't deny the overwhelming power Poseidon wielded, but she also couldn't abandon her friends, her family, Anthony, and everything she fought for.

"You may think you can keep me here," Percy said, her voice steady. "But I will find a way to go back. I won't give up on my world, no matter what you say."

Poseidon sighed, a mixture of sadness and admiration in his eyes. "Your spirit is truly remarkable, Percy. I can see why Chaos chose you. But know this: I will not give up on you either. I will do everything in my power to make you see that my love for you is true."

Chapter Text

Note: Chapter unedited

Take place before Poseidon stole Percy from her world. Most of the conversations are like in the manga.

Inside the parliament building of the Council of Valhalla:

Poseidon, Greek god of the sea, earthquakes , and horses drummed his fingers against the armrest of his throne in a mix of boredom and annoyance as his idiot younger brother Zeus lectures on about the fate of humanity.

He tapped his fingers more impatiently when the deities talks amongst themselves about deciding on the fate of mankind. Though he is on the side with wiping out all the mortal filth from the earth, he found the meeting unnecessary despite being held once every 1,000 years. In his view, the deities across different pantheons had long been in agreement on this matter. As the god of the sea, he knew well the depths of human folly and their impact on the natural world. Yet, Poseidon also understood that the balance of power among the gods required a united front, even if the decision seemed obvious.

As Zeus's voice echoed through the hall, Poseidon made eye contact with his brother Hades, the Greek god of the Underworld and the most respected god across pantheons. Hades's expression was unreadable, his eyes flickering with a hint of resignation. They shared a silent exchange, a tacit understanding of the complexities and burdens of their divine roles.

Across the room, Poseidon's gaze then met Odin's, the wise and weathered Allfather of the Norse gods. Odin's single eye gleamed with a mixture of solemnity and contemplation, a reflection of the weight of the impending decision. Poseidon respected Odin's wisdom and often found common ground with him in matters of governance and the fate of mortals.

"Let me ask." Zeus continued, "Now, should we put an end to them? Or...should we forgive them? Regarding the survival of mankind for the next 1,000 years."

"Of Gods, show me the will."

"Let's just give them the doomsday already, alright?" Shiva spoke, the Hindu god of creation and destruction laying on his mat with his arms crossed behind his head. "Mankind doesn't seem to have any intention to repent at all. Trying to guide them is such a pain in the ass. Once we've erased them all, let's try evolving some other animal this time!"

"True..." Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of beauty joins in. She sat perched on her stone golems with her huge *ahem* assets being held. "It's just as Lord Shiva says. In the last 1,000 years, the Earth has become too ugly. Seas are filled with wastes and oils. Forests are gone and living beings have become extinct one after another. So to speak...mankind is the most dangerous living cancer on earth, a disaster that will bring earth to its destruction. Isn't that true?"

All the deities listening in the council murmured their agreement.
"Aphrodite is right."
"Mankind is harmful and evil."
"There is no saving them anymore."
"That's right."

Zeus strikes the gavel to call back their attention.

"I guess, we have come to an agreement. Then, the end of mankind is decid—"

"PLEASE WAIT A SECOND!" Someone shouted, cutting Zeus off; a tall woman with long black hair and piercing green eyes.

"Huh?"
"Valkyrie?"
"That's a Valkyrie right?"
"Hey hey, what's up with her?"
"OI! WHERE ARE YOU GOING TO?!"

Poseidon narrowed his eyes at the sight of the commotion caused by the interruption. He turned his gaze towards the source of the disturbance and saw Brunhilde, leader of the Valkyries, striding confidently towards the center of the council chamber. Her presence commanded attention, which he can respect.

Brunhilde halted before the council, her expression resolute yet tinged with urgency. "Pardon my intrusion, furious gods," she began, her voice unwavering. "But there is one thing I have to say."

Zeus raised an eyebrow, but didn't say anything to stop her.

"MIND YOUR MANNERS BRUNHILDE!!!" Muninn, the white raven perched on Odin's left shoulder screeched at Brunhilde. Huginn, the black raven, glared at her on Odin's right.

"You imbecile half -god!" Muninn yelled.

"How dare you open your filthy mouth in this conference of gods!" Huginn added, flapping his wings.

Brunhilde ignored them, looking unbothered as she continues her speech.

"It is true that mankind is unbearably vulgar and violent. But, to destroy them like that...isn't that a bit...boring?"

Odin perked up, now interested with his Valkyrie's words.

Even Poseidon and the other gods became interested.

"Whether the survival of mankind has any value or not...with the might and mercy of gods...why don't we test them?"

Huginn and Muninn threw questions at her.

"Test them? How? Do you wish to flood the earth?"
"Or perhaps send them an ice age prematurely?"

Brunhilde shook her head, "No, but I have a more effective way to test them."

"Oh?"
"What is it?"
"What do you plan to do, you imbecile!"
"Say it now!!"

"RAGNAROK."

"Ra...Ragnarok?" Her younger sister Göll stuttered out in shock a distance away.

"Valhalla constitution," Brunhilde continued, "Article No.62 explained in paragraph 15 of the super special clause. 1 vs 1 showdown between Gods and Mankind."

As Brunhilde explains the clause, Poseidon looks thoughtful.

"A test," he mused silently. "A confrontation between gods and mankind? The notion was intriguing, but it reeked of arrogance. Did she truly believe that mortals could stand against the divine?"

Brunhilde's words about mankind being vulgar and violent rang true to him. He had seen firsthand the destruction and chaos wrought by humanity upon the seas and the earth. Yet, her suggestion to test their survival through combat intrigued him.

"Ha!" Muninn squawked out, "I don't know what you're thinking, but it seems you Valkyrie really don't understand a thing!"

"The mankind is no match against the gods!!" Huginn declared passionately.

"Your proposal is pointless." Both ravens said simultaneously.

"That's right!" Agreed a random god. "It wouldn't even be child's play."
"Why bother fighting them at all? This is ridiculous." Said another.
"I don't even remember that we have such an old law."

Brunhilde closed her eyes and said calmly, "So...the wills of the gods is to destroy mankind, and also...to avoid direct confrontation with humans. Am I right?"

"Huh?" Huginn and Muninn squawked in surprise.

"We want to destroy mankind without fighting them. We don't want to be put in the same ring as them." The Valkyrie said mockingly. "Hmm...don't tell me..."

"Are you chickening out."

"What did you just say?!" a random god shouted.
"How dare you speak to us gods that way?!"

Many gods either yell angrily at the lowly Valkyrie or murmured between each other.

Poseidon crushed the armrest of his throne in anger, scaring the minor gods. That Valkyrie dare to insult the gods?!

Brunhilde pretended not to notice the commotion she caused and ignored Göll, who tried to stop her.

"Uh...big sister..." Göll tried to call her worriedly.

"If so, then I did an unnecessary thing, sorry mah bad. Go ahead, don't listen to me. Let's just forget about the whole Ragnarok stuff..."

"P-please stop! What are you trying to say?!!" Göll pleaded to Brunhilde desperately, tears streaming her face. "Forget about mankind, you will be executed first!! Let's apologize big sister. Big sister!!"

The major gods like Zeus, Shiva, and Aphrodite chuckled at the audacity. Hades, Poseidon, and Odin look on expressionlessly.

"Hohoho...Ragnarok huh..." Zeus chuckles as he petted the snout of his pet dragon beside him.

Brunhilde watch him silently.

"Quite an interesting proposal. Well said, your proposal was an absolute...f*cking..." The Greek god of the sky, thunder, and lightning suddenly gripped the dragon's snout harshly to the creature's shock.

"UNIT!"

"BESIDES, DON'T YOU THINK IT'S BEEN A LONG TIME SINCE WE HAVE SEEN THE MIGHT OF GODS!"

"EVERYBODY, WHAT DO YOU THINK? SHALL WE HOLD A SHOWDOWN BETWEEN THE GODS AND MANKIND?" Looking absolutely like a crazy old man, Zeus spread his arms wide in front of all the deities in the council.

All the deities except the quiet ones like Hades, Poseidon, and Odin shouted out their agreement.

"Hell yeah!!"
"Bring it on!!!"
"Let's show these human pests the might of gods!!!"

As Zeus grabbed the gavel again and prepared to strike on the block to declare Ragnarok, his arm suddenly froze.

"W-what? I can't move..." Zeus stuttered in shock.

Just then, a deep, dark, and commanding voice is heard, vibrating through the walls of the Council of Valhalla:

"There Will Be No Ragnarok."

Chapter Text

A palpable hush fell over the chamber, the shock and confusion evident on the faces of the gods. The authority in the voice left no room for defiance. Even Poseidon and Hades, who had never encountered such resistance, found their own will subdued by the overwhelming presence. Poseidon looked furious by the submission.

I hate feeling weak! The temperamental god thought.

The air shimmered and warped as the figure of Chaos, the primordial entity, materialized in the center of the council. His form was a swirling mass of darkness and light, an embodiment of creation and destruction, embodying the very essence of the universe. The gods, powerful as they were, instinctively recoiled at the presence of a being that predated their existence.

"LORD CHAOS!" All the deities exclaimed in surprise.

Chaos's voice resonated through the hall once more, deep and ancient. "The cycle of destruction and rebirth is not yours to command, Zeus. The fate of mankind, of all creation, lies beyond the whims of gods."

Zeus, feeling curious, straightened in his seat. "Why do you intervene, Lord Chaos?" he asked, his voice uncharacteristically respectful. "What do you see in mankind that we do not?"

Chaos's form shifted, tendrils of energy flickering as he regarded the king of the Greek gods. "Mankind is flawed, yes, but they are also capable of growth, of change. The trials they face, the conflicts they endure, are the crucible in which they forge their destiny. To destroy them outright is to deny them the chance to evolve, to transcend their limitations."

Odin, ever the seeker of wisdom, leaned forward, his single eye gleaming with interest. "What do you propose, then, ancient one? If not Ragnarok, how shall we test their worth?"

"Oh, there will be no test."

"WHAT?!!!" Most of the gods in the room yelled out in shock. Even Brunhilde became wide-eyed, with Göll trembling in fear of the powerful being.

"What a letdown," muttered Shiva.

Aphrodite sighs in disappointment.

Poseidon narrowed his eyes, while Hades frowned.

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN THERE WILL BE NO TEST?" Screeched out Muninn, flapping his wings ferociously. The white raven would have continued if Odin hadn't grabbed his beak warningly.

"Shut up Muninn! Do you want to be obliterated by Chaos?" Hissed out Huginn.

"Oh? Then do you have a different approach to deal with mankind, Lord Chaos?" Zeus asked the primordial.

Chaos ignored everyone's reactions. "You see, I don't want the gods and humans to fight. I am actually against the destruction of humanity." The great being continued.

"HUH?!!!" everyone said in shock.

"Y-you are on the side of the humans?" Zeus stuttered out. "But why? Humans destroy everything on the Earth! We have the right to wipe them out!"

"I understand your feelings Zeus, as well as every deity in this room, but you all forgot yourselves," said Chaos.

Hades, who had been listening intently to the primordial's words, raised a brow wondering what the entity meant.

Chaos's form pulsated with a deeper intensity, casting shifting shadows across the chamber. "Forgot ourselves?" Zeus echoed, a hint of defiance in his voice. "What do you mean by that?"

Chaos's voice was steady, resonant. "Humans, in their flaws and cruelty, mirror the gods themselves. They inherit your tempers, your ambitions, your desires. Their wars, their strife, their destructiveness—these are reflections of the divine conflicts that shaped the cosmos."

A murmur rippled through the assembly. The gods, immortal and powerful, had never considered such a perspective. Odin's eye gleamed with a mixture of curiosity and understanding. "Are you suggesting, Lord Chaos, that in condemning humanity, we condemn ourselves?"

Chaos's gaze seemed to pierce through each deity present. "Indeed. To destroy them for their imperfections is to deny the very essence of your existence. It is a rejection of the chaos and order that birthed not only them but also you."

Poseidon, his anger now tempered by thought, leaned forward. "If not destruction, and if not a test, then what would you have us do?"

"Nothing."

Again, everyone is surprised. Some gods fell out of their seat.

"So...you want us to leave the humans alone?" Zeus said hesitantly.

"Precisely. But I do want you all to do one thing."

Every god leaned forward to hear closer.

Chaos's form glowed brighter, drawing the gods' attention even more intensely. "I want you to understand and empathize with the mortals you judge. To do this, I will show you the life of a single mortal being, someone who exemplifies humanity with their struggles and their potential for greatness."

The gods exchanged puzzled glances. "And who is this human?" Hades asked, his voice steady but intrigued.

But to his surprise, Chaos chuckled.

What is so funny? Hades thought, confused why the primordial thought his question is humorous.

The primordial's form shifted slightly, and a large grand screen appeared in the center of the room. "Her name is Percilla Jackson. Through her eyes, you will witness her trials and triumphs despite her mortality. You will learn what mankind is capable of through her, such as their resilience, their capacity for love, and their indomitable spirit."

"Percilla Jackson?" Poseidon repeated, finding the name strange, yet his interest is piqued. "What makes her so special?"

But Chaos didn't answer immediately.

Poseidon wanted to scream at the ancient immortal for wasting his time with his silence, but knows not to anger the being that is much more powerful than him.

Finally, Chaos answered. "Percilla Jackson is special because she is the strongest demigod to ever exist."

"............."

"Wait..."

"Did he just say...?"

"DEMIGOD?!!!!!" Almost everyone screamed out.

"Oh, so she is like Hercules," stated Zeus.

Hearing his name from his adopted father's lips, Hercules look up from his seat in interest.

"Not quite. You see, unlike Hercules who was human before ascending to godhood, dear Percilla is an offspring of a god and a human."

".............."

"SAY WHAT NOW!" Shouted Zeus in disbelief.

The gods erupted into a cacophony of voices, disbelief and astonishment echoing through the chamber.

"A demigod that is an offspring of a mortal and a god?" Said Athena, goddess of wisdom, war, strategy, and crafts. Her calm demeanor faltered, her sharp mind racing with possibilities.

"Who is her divine parent?" Hera, Zeus's wife and the goddess of marriage, women, and childbirth demanded. Her eyes narrowed with suspicion.

Chaos remained silent for a moment, allowing the weight of his revelation to settle. "Her father is none other than Poseidon."

The room fell into a stunned silence.

Note: One more chapter before getting back to Percy

Chapter Text

After a moment, everyone broke out of their stupor.

"WHAT? NO WAY!"
"DID I HEAR RIGHT?!"
"POSEIDON HAS A KID?!"

"No f*cking way did I hear what was just said,"Adamas, the Greek god of conquest said disbelievingly. He hid himself way in the back of the council room. The reason is that he didn't want anyone to know that he is alive, especially his younger brother Poseidon. Only his eldest brother Hades and mother Rhea knows. He had been observing the proceedings of this council of gods since it started.

"That ice block cannot possibly have his own demon spawn!"

Poseidon's expression shifted from shock to fury. What Chaos said is utterly ridiculous! He has never bedded a mortal in his eons of existence! There is no way he would lower himself to conceive with a mortal. The idea repulsed him.

"My daughter?" he said icily, his tone causing the minor gods to shiver in fear. He tried to rein in his temper to not provoke the primordial despite how he felt.

Zeus's gaze flickered between Poseidon and Chaos. "You expect us to believe that Poseidon would conceive a child with a human? My brother despises mankind like the rest of us. Perhaps, even more so."

"Lord Chaos, you must be mistaken. I have never bedded a mortal. How would I have a demigod daughter?" Poseidon told Chaos respectfully.

Chaos's form remained unwavering, the shifting darkness and light reflecting his ancient calm. "Your disbelief is understandable, Poseidon. However, Percilla Jackson is indeed your daughter. Just...not exactly from your seed."

Now everyone looks confused.

"How can this demigod be Poseidon's daughter if he never sired her?" Athena questioned, her analytical mind seeking a logical explanation.

"Because she is sired by Poseidon from an alternate world."

"WHAT?!!!" Many deities shouted.

Some of the gods sighs with a tired look, resigned with the primordial keeping on throwing surprises at them.

Brunhilde already went back to her previous spot with Göll. She had been listening intently to Chaos since his arrival.

"A-another Poseidon?!" Göll stuttered, trembling at the thought of another cold-blooded tyrant of the gods.

"An alternate world..." muttered Brunhilde, looking thoughtful. She really wanted Ragnarok to happen to give humanity a chance, but if this demigod can bridge the gap between gods and mortals, maybe there's a way to save mankind.

Another deity have a different thought.

An alternate reality? Thought Beelzebub, Lord of the Flies. If I have access to that dimension, maybe I can finally end myself.

"How interesting," said Hades, twirling a piece of his silver hair in thought. He sat on his dais with one leg crossed over the other, looking majestic. "So you are saying there are other realms where the gods exist differently?"

The entity seems to shimmer, cosmic energies swirling around him. "Indeed. There are countless realities, each with its own version of the gods and mortals. In one such reality, Poseidon fathered a demigod daughter named Percilla Jackson."

Poseidon's fury did not abate. "Alternate world or not, I refuse to believe that another version of me would consort with a mortal. And how does a half-breed sired by my alternate self be my daughter as well?" He demanded.

"The convergence of realities has created a unique bond. Percilla Jackson, though born of another Poseidon, shares the same essence as you. Her existence bridges the gap between your world and hers, making her your daughter in more ways than one."

Once Chaos stopped speaking, the gods muttered between themselves again.

"Oh, this is good!" Loki, the Norse god of mischief, trickery, and deception said gleefully. Loki's eyes sparkled with mischief as he leaned back in his seat, clearly enjoying the unfolding drama. "So, Poseidon has a daughter from another reality. Things are getting interesting!
Imagine the stories that will come from this!"

Thor, the Norse god of thunder and lightning sitting beside Loki, rolled his eyes. "This is no time for your games, Loki. If what Chaos says is true, this could have serious implications for all of us."

Ares, the Greek god of war, clenched his fists. "It is hard to believe that any version of Poseidon would sire a child with a mortal. This could be a trick."

"Chaos has never been one for tricks, Ares. His words carry weight beyond our comprehension. If there is an alternate Poseidon who fathered a child with a mortal, we must accept this as a possibility," said Apollo, Greek god of the sun, music, and prophecy who sat beside the war god. On his other side are his sister Artemis, goddess of the hunt and moon, and his mother Leto, the titaness of motherhood.

Buddha, the founder of Buddhism and one of the Four Sages in the Dharmic pantheon, laid on his mat while licking his lollipop with a bored expression.

So alternate realities huh? How troublesome. Wonder what this Percy girl is like to catch a primordial like Chaos attention. He thought.

Zeus raised his hand to silence the murmurs. "Enough. We will not dismiss Lord Chaos's words so easily. If there are indeed other realities with versions of ourselves, we must understand the extent of this convergence and its impact on our world."

Hera spoke up. "And what of this Percilla Jackson? If she truly is Poseidon's daughter, what role does she play in this convergence?"

Chaos's voice resonated with authority. "Percilla Jackson is a key figure in maintaining the balance between the worlds. Her actions and choices will influence not only her own reality but yours as well. By understanding her, you will gain insight into the potential for growth and unity within both gods and mortals."

Poseidon, still seething, finally spoke again. "Very well, Lord Chaos. If this girl truly is my daughter, then we will observe her. But do not expect me to accept her so easily."

Chaos's presence began to fade, his final words echoing through the hall. "This is not just about acceptance, Poseidon. It is about understanding and embracing the connections that bind all realities. Only then can you hope to avert the chaos that threatens to engulf you all."

As Chaos vanished, the grand screen hovering in the middle of the council room remained in his place.

Suddenly a title is revealed on the screen:

Percy Jackson and The Lightning Thief

"Are we truly going to watch the life of a mortal demigod?" Hera asked.

"It seems so my dear," Zeus said as the screen once again changes.

Chapter Text

The title on the screen disappeared, then another one appears:

I Accidentally Vaporized My Pre-Algebra Teacher

The gods look at each other in confusion.

Loki bursted out laughing.

"Hahahahaha, this is hilarious! What kind of title is that?!" Said the god of mischief, slapping his knee.

Thor frowned, crossing his arms over his chest. "It seems we will watch in the demigod's point of view.

Still giggling, Loki added, "If that is true, Poseidon's kid already sounds like a riot!"

"Ohoho! My niece having a sense of humor? Now that is a surprise!" Chuckled Zeus, knowing how his brother is like.

Hearing that, Poseidon glared at Zeus and Loki, which the former pretended not to notice. The latter froze in fear and immediately shut up.

"Loki," Odin warned.

"Poseidon, curb your anger," Hades said.

"I. DO NOT. HAVE. A DAUGHTER." Poseidon gritted out towards Zeus.

Athena narrowed her eyes with concentration. "The title suggests a humorous tone, but the concept of vaporizing a teacher may implies some sort of magical or divine intervention."

"I think you are right Athena," Apollo agreed.

The screen flickered again, revealing a tan skinned young girl with waist length jet-black hair, big sea-green eyes framed by long lashes, and pink pouty lips on a heart-shaped face.

Most of the gods dropped their jaws at the sight of the girl.

"Oh my!" Aphrodite exclaimed. "What an adorable looking girl!"  She cooed. The goddess of love can tell that the girl will grow up to be a great beauty that can attract many admirers. Hestia, Demeter, and Leto cooed at the sight of the girl.

"Is that the demigod girl we are supposed to watch?" Hera asked, looking between the screen and Poseidon. "She doesn't look like Poseidon at all."

All the gods nodded in agreement.

Hades, Zeus, and Adamas flinched and gave a nervous glance at their brother.

Poseidon narrowed his eyes at the sight of the demigod that is supposed to be his daughter.

How can this half-breed be my daughter? He thought with annoyance. She doesn't look like me.

She is not perfect.

The screen changes to another scene, and the gods hear narration from the screen.

Look, I didn't want to be a half-blood.

"Is that her voice? It sounds beautiful," Apollo said dreamily.

"Good! Who wants to be a half-blood?!" A random god shouted.

Hercules, Brunhilde, and Göll flinched.

"It is definitely better than being a human though," said another.

If you're reading this because you think you might be one, my advice is: close this book right now. Believe whatever lie your mom or dad told you about your birth, and try to lead a normal life.

"HUH?" Many of the gods said at the same time.

"Why would a demigod want to live a normal life?" Ares asked in confusion.

"There's a book?" Athena asked.

Being a half-blood is dangerous. It's scary. Most of the time, it gets you killed in painful, nasty ways.

If you're a normal kid, reading this because you think it's fiction, great. Read on. I envy you for being able to believe that none of this ever happened.

But if you recognize yourself in these pages—if you feel something stirring inside—stop reading immediately. You might be one of us. And once you know that, it's only a matter of time before they sense it too, and they'll come for you.

Don't say I didn't warn you.

My name is Percilla "Percy" Jackson.

Some of the gods gasped in shock.

Hercules look horrified, "K-killed? Demigods get killed in her world?!"

"It kind of sounds like there are more demigods besides her, but we don't know for certain," said Shiva, his three wives and son Ganesha agreeing beside him.

Without realizing it, Poseidon gripped the armrests of his throne so hard that he crushed it to dust. Hades and Zeus noticed and met each other's eyes in silent communication.

I'm fourteen years old. Until a few months ago, I was a boarding student at Yancy Academy, a private high school for troubled kids in upstate New York.

The scene changes again. At this point, Percy's life will be shown like a movie while there is narration at the same time.

Am I a troubled kid?

Yeah. You could say that.

"Oooh a child of Poseidon with issues, now that is not a surprise!" Zeus cackled.

Again, Poseidon glared at his younger brother.

I regret not disposing him with Adamas. He thought.

I could start at any point in my short miserable life to prove it, but things really started going bad last May, when our sixth-grade class took a field trip to Manhattan— twenty-eight mental-case kids and two teachers on a yellow school bus, heading to the Metropolitan Museum of Art to look at ancient Greek and Roman stuff.

I know—it sounds like torture. Most Yancy field trips were.

But Mr. Brunner, our Latin teacher, was leading this trip, so I had hopes.

Mr. Brunner was this middle-aged guy in a motorized wheelchair. He had thinning hair and a scruffy beard and a frayed tweed jacket, which always smelled like coffee. You wouldn't think he'd be cool, but he told stories and jokes and let us play games in class. He also had this awesome collection of Roman armor and weapons, so he was the only teacher whose class didn't put me to sleep.

I hoped the trip would be okay. At least, I hoped that for once I wouldn't get in trouble.

Boy, was I wrong.

Some of the deities actually look concerned; like Zeus, Hades, Adamas, Apollo, Leto, Hera, Hestia, and Demeter.

"What's going to happen to her?" Hestia said worriedly.

With Poseidon, no one can tell what he is feeling as his expression remained stone-cold.

See, bad things happen to me on field trips. Like at my fifth-grade school, when we went to the Saratoga battlefield, I had this accident with a Revolutionary War cannon. I wasn't aiming for the school bus, but of course I got expelled anyway. And before that, at my fourth-grade school, when we took a behind-the-scenes tour of the Marine World shark pool, I sort of hit the wrong lever on the catwalk and our class took an unplanned swim. And the time before that... Well, you get the idea.

Many of the gods laughed, the loudest being Loki and Anubis, the Egyptian god of funerary rites.

"Oh, she is so fun!" Said Anubis, laughing like a hyena.

"We would definitely get along well," commented Buddha, eating his snacks.

As usual, Poseidon didn't react.

This trip, I was determined to be good.

All the way into the city, I put up with Nancy Bobofit, the freckly, redheaded kleptomaniac girl, hitting my best friend Grover in the back of the head with chunks of peanut butter-and-ketchup sandwich.

"Ewww, human food is gross," said a random god in disgust.

"Wasting food, another reason to destroy humanity," said another. The gods nodded in agreement.

Brunhilde clenched her fists. There is too many petty reasons the gods make for condemning humanity.

Grover was an easy target. He was scrawny. He cried when he got frustrated. He must've been held back several grades, because he was the only sixth grader with acne and the start of a wispy beard on his chin. On top of all that, he was crippled. He had a note excusing him from PE for the rest of his life because he had some kind of muscular disease in his legs. He walked funny, like every step hurt him, but don't let that fool you. You should've seen him run when it was enchilada day in the cafeteria.

Seeing the way this Grover person ran, some of the more perceptive gods narrowed their eyes in suspicion. Among those gods are Hades, Poseidon, Adamas, Susano'o no Mikoto, and Beelzebub.

"There is something strange about that mortal," commented Susano'o, the Shinto god of swords.

Anyway, Nancy Bobofit was throwing wads of sandwich that stuck in his curly brown hair, and she knew I couldn't do anything back to her because I was already on probation. The headmaster had threatened me with death by in-school suspension if anything bad, embarrassing, or even mildly entertaining happened on this trip.

"I'm going to kill her," I mumbled.

"She should," Shiva said, chuckling in amusement.

"This is gold!" Loki giggled, "I like her!"

The god of mischief suddenly shivered and turn to see Poseidon giving him a death stare. Loki gulped and immediately turn his head away.

What's the ice prick's problem?! I thought he doesn't care about the girl!

Grover tried to calm me down. "It's okay. I like peanut butter."

He dodged another piece of Nancy's lunch.

"That's it." I started to get up, but Grover pulled me back to my seat.

"You're already on probation," he reminded me. "You know who'll get blamed if anything happens."

Looking back on it, I wish I'd decked Nancy Bobofit right then and there. In-school suspension would've been nothing compared to the mess I was about to get myself into.

The last part made the gods more alert.

"I have a bad feeling about this," said Ares. The other gods nodded in agreement.

Mr. Brunner led the museum tour.

He rode up front in his wheelchair, guiding us through the big echoey galleries, past marble statues and glass cases full of really old black-and-orange pottery.

It blew my mind that this stuff had survived for two thousand, three thousand years.

He gathered us around a thirteen-foot-tall stone column with a big sphinx on the top, and started telling us how it was a grave marker, a stele, for a girl about our age. He told us about the carvings on the sides. I was trying to listen to what he had to say, because it was kind of interesting, but everybody around me was talking, and every time I told them to shut up, the other teacher chaperone, Mrs. Dodds, would give me the evil eye.

Mrs. Dodds was this little math teacher from Georgia who always wore a black leather jacket, even though she was fifty years old. She looked mean enough to ride a Harley right into your locker. She had come to Yancy halfway through the year, when our last math teacher had a nervous breakdown.

Seeing the appearance of the math teacher, Aphrodite curled her lips in disgust.

"Ugh, what an ugly looking human!"

Hades narrowed his eyes. There is something about this math teacher that doesn't seem right.

From her first day, Mrs. Dodds loved Nancy Bobofit and figured I was devil spawn. She would point her crooked finger at me and say, "Now, honey," real sweet, and I knew I was going to get after-school detention for a month.

One time, after she'd made me erase answers out of old math workbooks until midnight, I told Grover I didn't think Mrs. Dodds was human. He looked at me, real serious, and said, "You're absolutely right."

"I think that Grover kid knows something," commented Buddha.

"There is a possibility that he is not mortal," Zeus added.

"I think so as well," Hades agreed.

Mr. Brunner kept talking about Greek funeral art.

Finally, Nancy Bobofit snickered something about the naked guy on the stele, and I turned around and said, "Will you shut up?"

It came out louder than I meant it to.

"That Nancy girl is quite disrespectful," Athena said, scowling. "It is good that Percilla spoke up."

Unbeknownst to himself, the corner of Poseidon's mouth lifted a second before he replaced it with a frown.

The whole group laughed. Mr. Brunner stopped his story.

"Miss Jackson," he said, "did you have a comment?"

My face was totally red. I said, "No, sir."

Mr. Brunner pointed to one of the pictures on the stele. "Perhaps you'll tell us what this picture represents?"

I looked at the carving, and felt a flush of relief, because I actually recognized it. "That's Kronos eating his kids, right?"

Silence.

Then suddenly, the entire council room erupted in an uproar.

"WHAT DID SHE JUST SAY?!" Zeus yelled in outrage. "DID I HEAR RIGHT? DID SHE F*CKING SAY THAT KRONOS ATE HIS KIDS?!!"

Loki dropped his jaw to the ground. "W-what?!     This cannot be serious! Right?" He turn to Odin and Thor.

Odin frowned, his ravens Muninn and Huginn looked ready to throw up.

"I am not sure," Thor replied, not looking well himself.

The gods, especially from the Greek pantheon, looked at each other in a mixture of shock and horror.

"NO! THAT CANNOT BE RIGHT!" Shouted Hera.

Hades showed an unsettled expression.

Poseidon sneered. "Pathetic mortals! How dare they falsify the origin of the Greek gods!"

"Yes," Mr. Brunner said, obviously not satisfied. "And he did this because ..."

"Well..." I racked my brain to remember. "Kronos was the king god, and—"

"Pffft, that demigod is so wrong." Said a random god.

"God?" Mr. Brunner asked.

"Titan," I corrected myself. "And ... he didn't trust his kids, who were the gods. So, um, Kronos ate them, right? But his wife hid baby Zeus, and gave Kronos a rock to eat instead. And later, when Zeus grew up, he tricked his dad, Kronos, into barfing up his brothers and sisters—"

Everyone look horrified.

Some of the Greek gods looked like they are about to puke themselves, especially the goddesses like Hera, Hestia, Aphrodite, and Athena.

"Ewww! Is that really how you Greek gods came to be!" Shiva said in disgust.

"NO!" The Greeks yelled simultaneously.

"That is absolutely NOT how we were born!" Hera shouted angrily.

Hades, Zeus, and Adamas look like they want to pulverize something.

"Mother Rhea will not like this," muttered Adamas.

Poseidon look absolutely livid. Suddenly, the temperature in the room became freezing cold, making everyone shiver.

"These insects dare!" The blonde tyrant growled out.

"Poseidon, calm down!" Hades told him sternly.

Upon his eldest brother's order, Poseidon reluctantly did so.

"Eeew!" said one of the girls behind me.

"—and so there was this big fight between the gods and the Titans," I continued, "and the gods won."

"At least the gods won," Zeus remarked.

Some snickers from the group.

"Why is that funny?" Hera asked in annoyance.

Behind me, Nancy Bobofit mumbled to a friend, "Like we're going to use this in real life. Like it's going to say on our job applications, 'Please explain why Kronos ate his kids.'"

"And why, Miss Jackson," Brunner said, "to paraphrase Miss Bobofit's excellent question, does this matter in real life?"

"Oooh, she got in trouble," Loki mocked, grinning mischievously.

"Busted," Grover muttered.

"Shut up," Nancy hissed, her face even brighter red than her hair.

At least Nancy got packed, too. Mr. Brunner was the only one who ever caught her saying anything wrong. He had radar ears.

I thought about his question, and shrugged. "I don't know, sir."

"I see." Mr. Brunner looked disappointed. "Well, half credit, Miss Jackson. Zeus did indeed feed Kronos a mixture of mustard and wine, which made him disgorge his other five children, who, of course, being immortal gods, had been living and growing up completely undigested in the Titan's stomach. The gods defeated their father, sliced him to pieces with his own scythe, and scattered his remains in Tartarus, the darkest part of the Underworld. On that happy note, it's time for lunch. Mrs. Dodds, would you lead us back outside?"

The Greek gods dropped their jaws to the floor.

"WHAT. THE. F*CK." Zeus worded slowly.

"Is that really how they kill our alternate selves's father?" Said Hades in shock.

"After all of that, how is that a happy note?!" Squawked Muninn.

The class drifted off, the girls holding their stomachs, the guys pushing each other around and acting like doofuses.

"Males," Athena and Artemis sneered.

Grover and I were about to follow when Mr. Brunner said, "Miss Jackson."

I knew that was coming.

I told Grover to keep going. Then I turned toward Mr. Brunner. "Sir?"

Mr. Brunner had this look that wouldn't let you go— intense brown eyes that could've been a thousand years old and had seen everything.

"Something about him is not right along with that Grover kid," said Apollo.

"You must learn the answer to my question," Mr. Brunner told me.

"About the Titans?"

"About real life. And how your studies apply to it."

"Oh."

"What you learn from me," he said, "is vitally important. I expect you to treat it as such. I will accept only the best from you, Percilla Jackson."

I wanted to get angry, this guy pushed me so hard.

I mean, sure, it was kind of cool on tournament days, when he dressed up in a suit of Roman armor and shouted: "What ho!'" and challenged us, sword-point against chalk, to run to the board and name every Greek and Roman person who had ever lived, and their mother, and what god they worshipped. But Mr. Brunner expected me to be as good as everybody else, despite the fact that I have dyslexia and attention deficit disorder and I had never made above a C– in my life. No—he didn't expect me to be as good; he expected me to be better. And I just couldn't learn all those names and facts, much less spell them correctly.

"A demigod with dyslexia and attention deficit disorder? That doesn't make any sense to me," Said Zeus.

"It may be because of her mortal half," answered Hades.

I wonder what could be the reason, thought Beelzebub, feeling like he wants to experiment on the demigod.

Poseidon frown deepened.

Such faultiness, I refuse to believe I have a daughter that is nothing like myself, he thought.

I mumbled something about trying harder, while Mr. Brunner took one long sad look at the stele, like he'd been at this girl's funeral.

He told me to go outside and eat my lunch.

The class gathered on the front steps of the museum, where we could watch the foot traffic along Fifth Avenue.

Overhead, a huge storm was brewing, with clouds blacker than I'd ever seen over the city. I figured maybe it was global warming or something, because the weather all across New York state had been weird since Christmas. We'd had massive snow storms, flooding, wildfires from lightning strikes. I wouldn't have been surprised if this was a hurricane blowing in.

"That seems quite unusual," commented Thor.

Nobody else seemed to notice. Some of the guys were pelting pigeons with Lunchables crackers. Nancy Bobofit was trying to pickpocket something from a lady's purse, and, of course, Mrs. Dodds wasn't seeing a thing.

"Humans are so selfish and immature," sneered a random god.

Grover and I sat on the edge of the fountain, away from the others. We thought that maybe if we did that, everybody wouldn't know we were from that school—the school for loser freaks who couldn't make it elsewhere.

"Detention?" Grover asked.

"Nah," I said. "Not from Brunner. I just wish he'd lay off me sometimes. I mean—I'm not a genius."

Poseidon frowned upon the girl saying she is not a genius.

How can she be my daughter when she does not contain my intelligence?

Grover didn't say anything for a while. Then, when I thought he was going to give me some deep philosophical comment to make me feel better, he said, "Can I have your apple?"

I didn't have much of an appetite, so I let him take it.

I watched the stream of cabs going down Fifth Avenue, and thought about my mom's apartment, only a little ways uptown from where we sat. I hadn't seen her since Christmas. I wanted so bad to jump in a taxi and head home. She'd hug me and be glad to see me, but she'd be disappointed, too. She'd send me right back to Yancy, remind me that I had to try harder, even if this was my sixth school in six years and I was probably going to be kicked out again. I wouldn't be able to stand that sad look she'd give me.

"She really loves her mother," Leto said, nodding in approval.

Mr. Brunner parked his wheelchair at the base of the handicapped ramp. He ate celery while he read a paperback novel. A red umbrella stuck up from the back of his chair, making it look like a motorized cafe table.

I was about to unwrap my sandwich when Nancy Bobofit appeared in front of me with her ugly friends—I guess she'd gotten tired of stealing from the tourists—and dumped her half-eaten lunch in Grover's lap.

"That is mean," said Hestia, Greek goddess of the hearth in disapproval.

"Oops." She grinned at me with her crooked teeth. Her freckles were orange, as if somebody had spray-painted her face with liquid Cheetos.

"Ugh!" Aphrodite scoffed, "that girl needs a heavy makeover!"

I tried to stay cool. The school counselor had told me a million times, "Count to ten, get control of your temper." But I was so mad my mind went blank. A wave roared in my ears.

Everyone in the room gasped or have expressions of shock.

"DID YOU SEE THAT?!"

"WHAT THE F*CK JUST HAPPENED?!"

"DID SHE JUST SUMMONED WATER?!"

"THE F*CK!" Loki, Adamas, Shiva, and Buddha shouted at the same time.

"Ohhoho! So she used her powers huh?" Zeus chuckled. "Seems that she really is the daughter of Poseidon."

"Zeus," Hades said warning and glanced at Poseidon.

Too the death god's surprise, Poseidon's eyes became solely focused on the screen.

I don't remember touching her, but the next thing I knew, Nancy was sitting on her butt in the fountain, screaming, "Percy pushed me!"

Mrs. Dodds materialized next to us.

Some of the kids were whispering: "Did you see—"

"—the water—"

"—like it grabbed her—"

I didn't know what they were talking about. All I knew was that I was in trouble again.

As soon as Mrs. Dodds was sure poor little Nancy was okay, promising to get her a new shirt at the museum gift shop, etc., etc., Mrs. Dodds turned on me. There was a triumphant fire in her eyes, as if I'd done something she'd been waiting for all semester. "Now, honey—"

"I know," I grumbled. "A month erasing workbooks."

That wasn't the right thing to say.

"Come with me," Mrs. Dodds said.

"Wait!" Grover yelped. "It was me. I pushed her."

"He is quite protective of her," Hades commented.

I stared at him, stunned. I couldn't believe he was trying to cover for me. Mrs. Dodds scared Grover to death.

She glared at him so hard his whiskery chin trembled.

"I don't think so, Mr. Underwood," she said.

"But—"

"You—will—stay—here."

Grover looked at me desperately.

"It's okay, man," I told him. "Thanks for trying."

"Honey," Mrs. Dodds barked at me. "Now."

Nancy Bobofit smirked.

I gave her my deluxe I'll-kill-you-later stare.

For some reason Hades, Apollo, Loki, Beelzebub, Thor, Susano'o and even Poseidon looks riveted at the sight of Percy's stare.

"Oh my!" Aphrodite squealed excitedly, seeing the looks directed towards the demigod. There is already a small spark of attraction ignited with some of the gods.

"You know, she kind of looks like Poseidon with that expression," Zeus remarked, gaining nods.

That snapped Poseidon out of his daze.

"I already said she is not my daughter Zeus," he told him coldly.

Hades shook his head and sighs in exasperation, "You are just being in denial Poseidon."

Poseidon ignored him.

Then I turned to face Mrs. Dodds, but she wasn't there. She was standing at the museum entrance, way at the top of the steps, gesturing impatiently at me to come on.

How'd she get there so fast?

The gods look surprised.

"What the hell?!" Shiva exclaimed. "That lady is not human!"

"Wonder what creature she is," said Susano'o.

Odin and Thor became more interested in the scene.

"Hmm," said Hades thoughtfully.

Poseidon glared at this so called 'Mrs. Dodds', which the observant Hades took notice.

I have moments like that a lot, when my brain falls asleep or something, and the next thing I know I've missed something, as if a puzzle piece fell out of the universe and left me staring at the blank place behind it. The school counselor told me this was part of the ADHD, my brain misinterpreting things.

I wasn't so sure.

I went after Mrs. Dodds.

Adamas sighs, " That girl seems to be walking into danger. I hope that is the only time she does." While he doesn't care about the girl, it troubled him for the kid to be so unaware.

Halfway up the steps, I glanced back at Grover. He was looking pale, cutting his eyes between me and Mr. Brunner, like he wanted Mr. Brunner to notice what was going on, but Mr. Brunner was absorbed in his novel.

"Definitely sus," said Buddha.

I looked back up. Mrs. Dodds had disappeared again. She was now inside the building, at the end of the entrance hall.

Okay, I thought. She's going to make me buy a new shirt for Nancy at the gift shop.

But apparently that wasn't the plan.

I followed her deeper into the museum. When I finally caught up to her, we were back in the Greek and Roman section.

Except for us, the gallery was empty.

Mrs. Dodds stood with her arms crossed in front of a big marble frieze of the Greek gods. She was making this weird noise in her throat, like growling.

"Oooh, is she going to attack her?" Asked Loki, leaning forward in excitement.

Even without the noise, I would've been nervous. It's weird being alone with a teacher, especially Mrs. Dodds. Something about the way she looked at the frieze, as if she wanted to pulverize it...

"You've been giving us problems, honey," she said.

I did the safe thing. I said, "Yes, ma'am."

Some of the gods chuckled.

"That's the safe thing?" Shiva asked with a raised brow.

She tugged on the cuffs of her leather jacket. "Did you really think you would get away with it?"

The look in her eyes was beyond mad. It was evil.

She's a teacher, I thought nervously. It's not like she's going to hurt me.

I said, "I'll—I'll try harder, ma'am."

Thunder shook the building.

"We are not fools, Percy Jackson," Mrs. Dodds said. "It was only a matter of time before we found you out. Confess, and you will suffer less pain."

"Confess?" Asked Sunano'o.

I didn't know what she was talking about.

All I could think of was that the teachers must've found the illegal stash of candy I'd been selling out of my dorm room. Or maybe they'd realized I got my essay on Tom Sawyer from the Internet without ever reading the book and now they were going to take away my grade. Or worse, they were going to make me read the book.

Some of the gods laughed.

Buddha, Shiva, and Adamas smirked. The girl will definitely get along with them.

"Well?" she demanded.

"Ma'am, I don't..."

"Your time is up," she hissed.

Then the weirdest thing happened. Her eyes began to glow like barbecue coals. Her fingers stretched, turning into talons. Her jacket melted into large, leathery wings. She wasn't human. She was a shriveled hag with bat wings and claws and a mouth full of yellow fangs, and she was about to slice me to ribbons.

For the second time, the entire council went into an uproar.

"WHAT THE F*CK IS THAT THING!"

Göll screams in fear then fainted. Brunhilde just watch the screen impassively.

"Is that creature from our alternate's pantheon?" Zeus questioned no one in particular.

Suddenly, a wind passed by him and whispered:
Fury.

"Wait...that's a Fury?!" Zeus exclaimed.

"Did you say Fury?!" The gods shouted.

"No way does a Fury look like this!" Yelled Ares.

"Such a vulgar sight!" Exclaimed Aphrodite.

Poseidon gritted his teeth. His dais started to show cracks.

Then things got even stranger.

Mr. Brunner, who'd been out in front of the museum a minute before, wheeled his chair into the doorway of the gallery, holding a pen in his hand.

"What ho, Percy!" he shouted, and tossed the pen through the air.

"A PEN?!!!" All the gods shouted.

Poseidon looked displeased.

"Why the hell is that mortal throwing a pen?! What good will it do?!" Huginn shouted, flapping his wings.

Mrs. Dodds lunged at me.

With a yelp, I dodged and felt talons slash the air next to my ear. I snatched the ballpoint pen out of the air, but when it hit my hand, it wasn't a pen anymore. It was a sword—Mr. Brunner's bronze sword, which he always used on tournament day.

Everyone became surprised.

"The pen just turned into a sword!" Said Apollo.

The battle-hungry gods like Zeus and Ares jumped in their seats giddily in excitement. Hera scowled at her husband for acting like a kid.

Hades narrowed his eyes. It seems his suspicions was proven true after all about that Mr. Brunner.

Poseidon stayed completely focused on watching the scene, his eyes not missing any detail.

Mrs. Dodds spun toward me with a murderous look in her eyes.

My knees were jelly. My hands were shaking so bad I almost dropped the sword.

She snarled, "Die, honey!"

And she flew straight at me.

Absolute terror ran through my body. I did the only thing that came naturally: I swung the sword.

"NATURALLY?!" Many gods shouted.

"I don't think that girl used a sword before. How could she think it will come naturally to her?" Susano'o muttered to himself.

Every gods eyes are now glued to the screen.

The metal blade hit her shoulder and passed clean through her body as if she were made of water. Hisss!

Mrs. Dodds was a sand castle in a power fan. She exploded into yellow powder, vaporized on the spot, leaving nothing but the smell of sulfur and a dying screech and a chill of evil in the air, as if those two glowing red eyes were still watching me.

The council room was so quiet you can hear a pin drop.

"S-she just killed a Fury with one swing..." stuttered Ares in disbelief, breaking the tense silence.

"Impressive!" Roared Zeus. "She got some fight in her!"

"Indeed," Hades said, nodding approvingly. "She has potential."

Poseidon remained stoic, but there is a sort of spark in his eyes if looked closely.

I was alone.

There was a ballpoint pen in my hand.

Mr. Brunner wasn't there. Nobody was there but me.

My hands were still trembling. My lunch must've been contaminated with magic mushrooms or something.

Had I imagined the whole thing?

"You definitely did not," said Buddha.

I went back outside.

It had started to rain.

Grover was sitting by the fountain, a museum map tented over his head. Nancy Bobofit was still standing there, soaked from her swim in the fountain, grumbling to her ugly friends. When she saw me, she said, "I hope Mrs. Kerr whipped your butt."

"Who is Mrs. Kerr?" Asked Apollo. His fellow gods shrugged.

I said, "Who?"

"Our teacher. Duh!"

I blinked. We had no teacher named Mrs. Kerr. I asked Nancy what she was talking about.

She just rolled her eyes and turned away.

I asked Grover where Mrs. Dodds was.

He said, "Who?"

"How could those mortal not remember their math teacher?" Questioned Odin, finally speaking out.

Apollo scoffed. "That Grover kid is a bad liar."

But he paused first, and he wouldn't look at me, so I thought he was messing with me.

"Not funny, man," I told him. "This is serious."

Thunder boomed overhead.

I saw Mr. Brunner sitting under his red umbrella, reading his book, as if he'd never moved.

I went over to him.

He looked up, a little distracted. "Ah, that would be my pen. Please bring your own writing utensil in the future, Miss Jackson."

"He's acting weird," stated Loki.

I handed Mr. Brunner his pen. I hadn't even realized I was still holding it.

"Sir," I said, "where's Mrs. Dodds?"

He stared at me blankly. "Who?"

"The other chaperone. Mrs. Dodds. The pre-algebra teacher."

He frowned and sat forward, looking mildly concerned. "Percy, there is no Mrs. Dodds on this trip. As far as I know, there has never been a Mrs. Dodds at Yancy Academy. Are you feeling all right?"

Just then, the screen turned black.

"Huh?"

"Why did the screen stopped playing?!"

Suddenly, all the deities felt a familiar suffocating presence.

"What do you gods think of Percilla Jackson?" Said Chaos, appearing once again.

Chapter Text

Everyone was stunned by Chao's sudden return.

Zeus cleared his throat. "Lord Chaos, we didn't expect you to come back within a short time. We thought you have left us gods to ourselves."

Chaos flared his aura of amusement. "Ah, Zeus, you should know by now that I am nothing if not unpredictable. I have been watching you all reacting to Percilla's first fight against a monster without my presence here. So back to my question, what do you all think of her?"

Hades spoke next, his expression cautious. "Percilla Jackson is an exceptional mortal, Lord Chaos. Her action have caught the attention of many of us."

Chaos nodded slowly. "Exceptional indeed. Her fate is intertwined with powers beyond her understanding."

"She possesses qualities rarely seen in mortals. Courage, intelligence, and a resilience," said Odin.

Ares, leaning casually against his seat, smirked. "She's a warrior, no doubt about that."

Chaos would have smiled if he shown a face. "A fitting description. Her potential is vast, but her path is fraught with danger. Now I want to know what is Poseidon's opinion of her." 

The Primordial and every deity turn their attention to the silent sea god.

Poseidon just showed a deadpan expression.

"Brother, stop your stubbornness and answer him," Hades urged warningly.

Poseidon's eyes flickered with annoyance before he finally spoke, his voice like the rumble of distant thunder. "Percilla Jackson is a child of the sea, though she may not yet know it. Her strength and resolve are commendable, but she treads a fine line between bravery and recklessness."

Chaos seemed to consider Poseidon's words, his aura shifting slightly. "As expected, she has already made an impression on the ruler of the seas. Now let's return to the screen." The primordial disappeared again.

A new title appears on the black screen:

Three Old Ladies Knit The Socks Of Death

"Another weird title?!" Exclaimed Apollo.

Athena rolled her eyes. "It's symbolic Apollo. We should all expect these titles would have a deeper meaning."

Loki snorted. "Stop being such a smartass."

Athena glared daggers at the god of mischief for his comment.

The first scene appears.

I was used to the occasional weird experience, but usually they were over quickly. This twenty-four/seven hallucination was more than I could handle. For the rest of the school year, the entire campus seemed to be playing some kind of trick on me. The students acted as if they were completely and totally convinced that Mrs. Kerr—a perky blond woman whom I'd never seen in my life until she got on our bus at the end of the field trip—had been our pre-algebra teacher since Christmas.

"Quite strange for a random teacher to suddenly appear," remarked Buddha. 

"What is stranger are the students acting like this Mrs. Kerr has been around," Shiva pointed out.

"It could be that our alternate selves are involved," said Hades.

Everyone nodded their heads in agreement except   Poseidon, who is still as a statue.

Every so often I would spring a Mrs. Dodds reference on somebody, just to see if I could trip them up, but they would stare at me like I was psycho.

It got so I almost believed them—Mrs. Dodds had never existed.

Almost.

Loki smirked. "Heh, smart girl."

But Grover couldn't fool me. When I mentioned the name Dodds to him, he would hesitate, then claim she didn't exist. But I knew he was lying.

"She is perceptive too," commented Apollo.

Beelzebub nodded. "It is quite obvious that he knows something."

"Right, this Grover is acting weird around her," said Ares.

"So that boy is hiding something from her," said Artemis with a derisive tone. "Only a male would be foolish to keep secrets from someone like Percilla."

Poseidon cracks his armrest again. (It was destroyed, then reformed.)

Zeus and Hades look at each other, seemingly asking each other 'what's his deal?'.

Something was going on. Something had happened at the museum.

I didn't have much time to think about it during the days, but at night, visions of Mrs. Dodds with talons and leathery wings would wake me up in a cold sweat.

"Her visions are concerning," said Morpheus, Greek gods of dreams.

Aphrodite looks grossed out at the sight of Mrs. Dodds again.

The freak weather continued, which didn't help my mood. One night, a thunderstorm blew out the windows in my dorm room. A few days later, the biggest tornado ever spotted in the HudsonValley touched down only fifty miles from Yancy Academy. One of the current events we studied in social studies class was the unusual number of small planes that had gone down in sudden squalls in the Atlantic that year.

This scene caught Zeus's attention.

"Wait...could this be my alternate self's doing?" 

Hades frowned, his eyes narrowing as he considered the events unfolding. "It is possible, Zeus. The disturbances and unusual weather patterns are not coincidental. If your alternate self is involved, then he is putting Percilla's life at risk."

Cracks!

"Poseidon, that is the second time you crushed your armrest!" Scolded Hades, looking like a tired older sibling.

But does his younger brother care? No.

Adamas and Beelzebub have similar thoughts as they observed Poseidon.

What the f*ck is up with the ice prick?! He has been showing weird behavior. There is no way he is starting to care about the girl, right?Thought Adamas.

Hmm, it seems Poseidon is affected by the threats to Percilla's life. Despite not having met her personally, he is started to show more emotions after eons. Thought Beelzebub.

On the other hand, Poseidon is caught by surprise of his slipping of control.

What is wrong with me?! Why am I reacting this way to an insignificant half-mortal?! I still do not believe I am any relation to her! However, I am showing more emotions than I ever intended!

  I started feeling cranky and irritable most of the time. My grades slipped from Ds to Fs. I got into more fights with Nancy Bobofit and her friends. I was sent out into the hallway in almost every class.

Hearing the grades, Poseidon and Athena frowned.

Finally, when our English teacher, Mr. Nicoll, asked me for the millionth time why I was too lazy to study for spelling tests, I snapped. I called him an old sot. I wasn't even sure what it meant, but it sounded good.

"BWAHAHAHAHAHA!"

Zeus, Loki, and Anubis laughed uncontrollably. The other deities (except Poseidon) chuckled.

Apollo shook his head with a smirk. "Calling a teacher an old sot? Bold move, even for a mortal."

Athena frowned, her gaze stern. "Percilla needs to control her temper."

Maybe Percilla and my brother is more alike than any of us care to admit, thought Hades.

 "Sometimes a little rebellion is necessary, Athena. It shows she's spirited and won't back down easily." Said Hermes, the Greek messenger god and god of travels.

Hera, observing quietly, finally spoke. "Spirit is one thing, but wisdom and restraint are also crucial. Percilla must learn to balance her emotions if she is to fulfill her potential."

The headmaster sent my mom a letter the following week, making it official: I would not be invited back next year to Yancy Academy.

Fine, I told myself. Just fine.

I was homesick.

Some goddesses, especially Hestia, Leto, and Aphrodite cooed at the cute girl missing her mom.

  I wanted to be with my mom in our little apartment on the Upper East Side, even if I had to go to public school and put up with my obnoxious stepfather and his stupid poker parties.

  And yet... there were things I'd miss at Yancy. The view of the woods out my dorm window, the Hudson River in the distance, the smell of pine trees. I'd miss Grover, who'd been a good friend, even if he was a little strange. I worried how he'd survive next year without me.

I'd miss Latin class, too—Mr. Brunner's crazy tournament days and his faith that I could do well.

As exam week got closer, Latin was the only test I studied for. I hadn't forgotten what Mr. Brunner had told me about this subject being life-and-death for me. I wasn't sure why, but I'd started to believe him.

 Poseidon scoffed, "She doesn't need to learn Latin. It is a useless language from an empire that tried to imitate us before we wiped them out. She is part Greek anyway."

"Good riddance for that," said the members of the Greek pantheon.

 The deities from the other pantheons glanced at each other. They know the Greeks HATED the Romans for trying to made up their own deities that copied the Greeks. They also hate Italy, considering it was the heart of the empire that once dared to challenge its supremacy.

 But why was Italy the country not wiped out also?

 Italy was not wiped out because, despite their animosity towards the Romans, the Greek deities recognized the land's significance and potential. They understood that Italy's strategic location and rich resources made it too valuable to destroy completely. Moreover, the Greeks knew that many of their cultural influences had spread throughout Italy, making its destruction akin to erasing part of their own legacy. Thus, while they harbored deep resentment, they chose to let Italy endure.

 Some of the Greek gods will get mad if a member of their pantheon eats Italian food.

 Adamas began to sweat nervously.

 Sh*t! I hope they never find out I eat pizzas everyday!

 "Since you said she is part Greek, do you admit Percilla is your daughter?" Said Zeus teasingly.

"Don't push me idiot," replied Poseidon, scowling and turning back to the screen.

  The evening before my final, I got so frustrated I threw the Cambridge Guide to Greek Mythology across my dorm room. 

 Athena gasped. "How dare she treat a book that way?!"

"Well, it is a book of Greek mythology, which means likely the humans made up the stories about us. So I wouldn't mind that kind of book getting beat up," said a new voice, which happens to be Dionysus, Greek god of wine and pleasure.

  Words had started swimming off the page, circling my head, the letters doing one-eighties as if they were riding skateboards. There was no way I was going to remember the difference between Chiron and Charon, or Polydictes and Polydeuces. And conjugating those Latin verbs? Forget it.

"Who the hell is Chiron and Polydeuces?" Asked Zeus.

The Greeks look at each other and shrugged.

"It seems those two only exist in that world," said Hades. "There are probably many others too that our universe don't have."

"Like what uncle? Our own demigod blood children?" Apollo said jokingly.

All the deities reacted startlingly.

"W-what?" Hercules stuttered.

"Wait, I was joking! Chaos did not mention any other demigods besides the girl!"

"Well, there could be a possibility though..." Shiva muttered.

 Zeus looked unsure. "Son...you may be on to something here..."

Hera scowled and clenched her fists.

 Ares laughed nervously. "Even if we have our own demigod children in that universe, at least there won't be Roman gods right?" He said, trying to ease the tension. Everyone resumed watching the screen.

I paced the room, feeling like ants were crawling around inside my shirt.

  I remembered Mr. Brunner's serious expression, his thousand-year-old eyes. I will accept only the best from you, Percilla Jackson.

  I took a deep breath. I picked up the mythology book.

  I'd never asked a teacher for help before. Maybe if I talked to Mr. Brunner, he could give me some pointers. At least I could apologize for the big fat F I was about to score on his exam. I didn't want to leave Yancy Academy with him thinking I hadn't tried.

I walked downstairs to the faculty offices. Most of them were dark and empty, but Mr. Brunner's door was ajar, light from his window stretching across the hallway floor.

I was three steps from the door handle when I heard voices inside the office. Mr. Brunner asked a question. A voice that was definitely Grover's said "... worried about Percy, sir."

  I froze.

"Oooh, those two are talking behind her back!" Loki snickered.

 Poseidon gritted his teeth, glaring hatefully at those two lower life forms.

  I'm not usually an eavesdropper, but I dare you to try not listening if you hear your best friend talking about you to an adult.

"True," many of the deities agreed.

I inched closer.

"... alone this summer," Grover was saying. "I mean, a Kindly One in the school! Now that we know for sure, and they know too—"

 "Kindly one? Is that how they called the Fury?" Asked Susano'o.

 Odin nodded. "Seems to be so."

"We were right that Grover kid was sus," said Buddha.

"We would only make matters worse by rushing him," Mr. Brunner said. "We need the girl to mature more."  

"But she may not have time. The summer solstice deadline— "

 Summer solstice deadline? The Greeks thought simultaneously.

"Will have to be resolved without her, Grover. Let her enjoy her ignorance while she still can."

"Sir, she saw her... ."

"Her imagination," Mr. Brunner insisted. "The Mist over the students and staff will be enough to convince him of that."

"The Mist?" Said Hades with a raised brow. "Is that something to blind mortals from seeing monsters?"

"Seems to be so brother," said Zeus.

"Sir, I ... I can't fail in my duties again." Grover's voice was choked with emotion.  "You know what that would mean."  

"You haven't failed, Grover," Mr. Brunner said kindly. "I should have seen her for what she was. Now let's just worry about keeping Percy alive until next fall—"  

The mythology book dropped out of my hand and hit the floor with a thud.  

"Uh-oh! She dropped her book!" Squawked Huginn.

 "She is on the verge of exposing herself," stated Shiva.

  Mr. Brunner went silent.

  My heart hammering, I picked up the book and backed down the hall.

  A shadow slid across the lighted glass of Brunner's office door, the shadow of something much taller than my wheelchair-bound teacher, holding something that looked suspiciously like an archer's bow.

"Looks like she was mistaken for an enemy," commented Thor.

  I opened the nearest door and slipped inside.

  A few seconds later I heard a slow clop-clop-clop, like muffled wood blocks, then a sound like an animal snuffling right outside my door. A large, dark shape paused in front of the glass, then moved on.

 "F*cking sh*t! That sounds like the steps of a Satyr!" Growled out Zeus.

"A Satyr!" The gods cried out in disgust. 

"One of those guys is a Satyr?!" Apollo exclaimed.

 "Abhorrent creatures!" Poseidon sneered.

How dare that filthy life form threaten to hurt my— Poseidon stopped himself.

A bead of sweat trickled down my neck.  

Somewhere in the hallway, Mr. Brunner spoke. "Nothing," he murmured. "My nerves haven't been right since the winter solstice."

 "Winter Solstice?" Questioned the gods.

"What are they talking about?" Asked Ares, confused.

"Mine neither," Grover said. "But I could have sworn ..."

  "Go back to the dorm," Mr. Brunner told him. "You've got a long day of exams tomorrow."

  "Don't remind me."

The lights went out in Mr. Brunner's office.

I waited in the dark for what seemed like forever.

Finally, I slipped out into the hallway and made my way back up to the dorm.

Grover was lying on his bed, studying his Latin exam notes like he'd been there all night.  

"Hey," he said, bleary-eyed. "You going to be ready for this test?"

  I didn't answer.

"You look awful." He frowned. "Is everything okay?"  

"Just... tired."

  I turned so he couldn't read my expression, and started getting ready for bed.

 "Wait a second! They have her and this Grover boy share a room?!" Artemis exclaimed in anger. Athena and some other goddesses looked angry as well.

Now Poseidon feels the urge to kill that Satyr even more.

I didn't understand what I'd heard downstairs. I wanted to believe I'd imagined the whole thing.

"You definitely did not imagine it,"said Buddha.

But one thing was clear: Grover and Mr. Brunner were talking about me behind my back. They thought I was in some kind of danger.

 Surprisingly, some of the gods look worried, especially Hades, Zeus, and Adamas.

 Meanwhile, Poseidon remain impassive. No one can tell what he is feeling inside.

  The next afternoon, as I was leaving the three-hour Latin exam, my eyes swimming with all the Greek and Roman names I'd misspelled, Mr. Brunner called me back inside.

  For a moment, I was worried he'd found out about my eavesdropping the night before, but that didn't seem to be the problem.

  "Percy," he said. "Don't be discouraged about leaving Yancy. It's ... it's for the best."

  His tone was kind, but the words still embarrassed me. Even though he was speaking quietly, the other kids finishing the test could hear. Nancy Bobofit smirked at me and made sarcastic little kissing motions with her lips.

"Bitch!" Loki insulted. "Percy should have killed her."

I mumbled, "Okay, sir."

"I mean ..." Mr. Brunner wheeled his chair back and forth, like he wasn't sure what to say. "This isn't the right place for you. It was only a matter of time."

My eyes stung.

The sight of Percy on the verge of tears...it actually affected Poseidon.

 He crushed his armrests into dust again.

"Insolent fool," he muttered angrily.

"Poseidon!" Shouted Hades.

"It seems that teacher is saying those words to protect her," Odin stated, which Susano'o nodded in agreement.

Here was my favorite teacher, in front of the class, telling me I couldn't handle it. After saying he believed in me all year, now he was telling me I was destined to get kicked out.

"Right," I said, trembling.

"No, no," Mr. Brunner said. "Oh, confound it all. What I'm trying to say ... you're not normal, Percy. That's nothing to be—"

"Thanks," I blurted. "Thanks a lot, sir, for reminding me."

  "Percy—"

  But I was already gone.

  On the last day of the term, I shoved my clothes into my suitcase.

The other guys were joking around, talking about their vacation plans. One of them was going on a hiking trip to Switzerland. Another was cruising the Caribbean for a month. They were juvenile delinquents, like me, but they were rich juvenile delinquents. Their daddies were executives, or ambassadors, or celebrities. I was a nobody, from a family of nobodies.

They asked me what I'd be doing this summer and I told them I was going back to the city.

What I didn't tell them was that I'd have to get a summer job walking dogs or selling magazine subscriptions, and spend my free time worrying about where I'd go to school in the fall.

"A demigod shouldn't even have a job. Just where the hell is her father?" Zeus said in disapproval.

At the thought of his alternate self not taking care of the girl, Poseidon's expression became even more murderous.

 He should not feel this way.

"Oh," one of the guys said. "That's cool."

They went back to their conversation as if I'd never existed.

The only person I dreaded saying good-bye to was Grover, but as it turned out, I didn't have to. He'd booked a ticket to Manhattan on the same Greyhound as I had, so there we were, together again, heading into the city.

  During the whole bus ride, Grover kept glancing nervously down the aisle, watching the other passengers. It occurred to me that he'd always acted nervous and fidgety when we left Yancy, as if he expected something bad to happen. Before, I'd always assumed he was worried about getting teased. But there was nobody to tease him on the Greyhound.

  Finally I couldn't stand it anymore.

I said, "Looking for Kindly Ones?"

 "Oh sh*t!" Exclaimed a random god.

"She is going to corner him," said another.

 "Finally, something will get explained," said Beelzebub. 

  Grover nearly jumped out of his seat. "Wha—what do you mean?"

  I confessed about eavesdropping on him and Mr. Brunner the night before the exam.

  Grover's eye twitched. "How much did you hear?"

"Oh ... not much. What's the summer solstice dead-line?"

He winced. "Look, Percy ... I was just worried for you, see? I mean, hallucinating about demon math teachers ..."

"Grover—"

"Just tell her the truth you b*stard!" Someone shouted in frustration.

 Everyone is tired of the girl not knowing anything and are fed us with this Grover guy keeping things from her.

  "And I was telling Mr. Brunner that maybe you were overstressed or something, because there was no such person as Mrs. Dodds, and ..."

  "Grover, you're a really, really bad liar."

 "Finally, she called him out!" Apollo yelled, looking impressed.

 Hades and many other gods nodded in approval.

  His ears turned pink.

  From his shirt pocket, he fished out a grubby business card. "Just take this, okay? In case you need me this summer.

  The card was in fancy script, which was murder on my dyslexic eyes, but I finally made out something like:

  Grover Underwood

  Keeper

  Half-Blood Hill

  Long Island, New York

  (800) 009-0009

  "What's Half—"

  "Don't say it aloud!" he yelped. "That's my, um ... summer address."

"He is still deceiving her," Hermes stated

My heart sank. Grover had a summer home. I'd never considered that his family might be as rich as the others at Yancy.

  "Okay," I said glumly. "So, like, if I want to come visit your mansion."

He nodded. "Or ... or if you need me."

"Why would I need you?"

  It came out harsher than I meant it to.

  Grover blushed right down to his Adam's apple. "Look, Percy, the truth is, I—I kind of have to protect you."

  I stared at him.  

"He doesn't look like he can protect her," Ares remarked.

  All year long, I'd gotten in fights, keeping bullies away from him. I'd lost sleep worrying that he'd get beaten up next year without me. And here he was acting like he was the one who defended me.

"Weakling," Poseidon stated, looking at Grover's form in disdain. To him, this boy looks like a coward.

"Grover," I said, "what exactly are you protecting me from?"

There was a huge grinding noise under our feet. Black smoke poured from the dashboard and the whole bus filled with a smell like rotten eggs. The driver cursed and limped the Greyhound over to the side of the highway.

  After a few minutes clanking around in the engine compartment, the driver announced that we'd all have to get off. Grover and I filed outside with everybody else.

  We were on a stretch of country road—no place you'd notice if you didn't break down there. On our side of the highway was nothing but maple trees and litter from passing cars. On the other side, across four lanes of asphalt shimmering with afternoon heat, was an old-fashioned fruit stand.

  The stuff on sale looked really good: heaping boxes of blood red cherries and apples, walnuts and apricots, jugs of cider in a claw-foot tub full of ice. There were no customers, just three old ladies sitting in rocking chairs in the shade of a maple tree, knitting the biggest pair of socks I'd ever seen.

"The fuck," said some gods at the sight of the giant socks.

I mean these socks were the size of sweaters, but they were clearly socks. The lady on the right knitted one of them. The lady on the left knitted the other. The lady in the middle held an enormous basket of electric-blue yarn.

All three women looked ancient, with pale faces wrinkled like fruit leather, silver hair tied back in white bandannas, bony arms sticking out of bleached cotton dresses.

The weirdest thing was, they seemed to be looking right at me.

 All the deities suddenly felt a cold sensation at the sight of the old ladies.

 Hades and Beelzebub narrowed their eyes. Something doesn't seem right about those three old women.

I looked over at Grover to say something about this and saw that the blood had drained from his face. His nose was twitching.

"Grover?" I said. "Hey, man—"

"Tell me they're not looking at you. They are, aren't they?"

"Yeah. Weird, huh? You think those socks would fit me?"

"Hahahaha! She is too funny!" Laughed Anubis, clutching his abdomen and wiping a stray tear.

  "Not funny, Percy. Not funny at all."

The old lady in the middle took out a huge pair of scissors—gold and silver, long-bladed, like shears. I heard Grover catch his breath.

 "Um...please don't tell me what I think they are," said Ares in a mix of fear and nervousness.

"We're getting on the bus," he told me. "Come on."

"What?" I said. "It's a thousand degrees in there."

"Come on!'" He pried open the door and climbed inside, but I stayed back.

  Across the road, the old ladies were still watching me. The middle one cut the yarn, and I swear I could hear that snip across four lanes of traffic. 

"SH*T!!!" Everyone cried out.

"T-those three are the Fates!" Yelled Apollo.

Suddenly, the entire council room became chillingly cold, worse than the first time. Everyone in the room shivered.

"POSEIDON!"

 The sea god stopped controlling the temperature.

  Her two friends balled up the electric-blue socks, leaving me wondering who they could possibly be for—Sasquatch or Godzilla.

Every god bursted into laughter, the tension dropping a bit.

 Even the corner of Poseidon's mouth lifted before he stopped himself.

  At the rear of the bus, the driver wrenched a big chunk of smoking metal out of the engine compartment. The bus shuddered, and the engine roared back to life.

"The encounter with the Fates was preplanned," stated Hades.

  The passengers cheered.

  "Darn right!" yelled the driver. He slapped the bus with his hat. "Everybody back on board!"

  Once we got going, I started feeling feverish, as if I'd caught the flu.

  Grover didn't look much better. He was shivering and his teeth were chattering.

  "Grover?"

"Yeah?"

  "What are you not telling me?"

"Yeah! What are you not telling her mortal?!" Shouted a random god.

  He dabbed his forehead with his shirt sleeve. "Percy, what did you see back at the fruit stand?"  

"You mean the old ladies? What is it about them, man? They're not like ... Mrs. Dodds, are they?"

"They are worse kiddo," Shiva said sympathetically.

His expression was hard to read, but I got the feeling that the fruit-stand ladies were something much, much worse than Mrs. Dodds. He said, "Just tell me what you saw."

"The middle one took out her scissors, and she cut the yarn."

He closed his eyes and made a gesture with his fingers that might've been crossing himself, but it wasn't. It was something else, something almost—older.

He said, "You saw her snip the cord."

"Yeah. So?" But even as I said it, I knew it was a big deal.

"Definitely a big deal," said members of the Greek pantheon.

"This is not happening," Grover mumbled. He started chewing at his thumb. "I don't want this to be like the last time."

"What last time?"

"Always sixth grade. They never get past sixth."

"Fucking tell her what is going on!" Snapped Hera, to the surprise of her family.

"Grover," I said, because he was really starting to scare me. "What are you talking about?"

"Let me walk you home from the bus station. Promise me."

This seemed like a strange request to me, but I promised he could.

"Is this like a superstition or something?" I asked.

No answer.

"ARE YOU F*CKING KIDDING ME!" The Queen of the Greek pantheon shouted furiously. The other gods shared the same sentiment.

"Grover—that snipping of the yarn. Does that mean somebody is going to die?"

He looked at me mournfully, like he was already picking the kind of flowers I'd like best on my coffin.

The scene ended.

A trident was thrown towards the screen before it was blocked by an invisible barrier.

Chaos appears again.

"Now now Poseidon, there is no need to throw a tantrum. I can guess you all have some questions for me."

Chapter Text

(Present)

As Poseidon's words hung in the air, the tension between them grew palpable. Percy's mind raced, searching for a way out, but the god's powerful presence was overwhelming. Suddenly, Poseidon again raised his hand and summoned a shimmering, golden trident, which he planted firmly into the ground. The cavern began to shift and change once more, and before Percy could react, they were transported to a grand underwater palace.

The palace was awe-inspiring, with walls of coral and mother-of-pearl, illuminated by the gentle glow of bioluminescent algae. Many colorful fishes swam gracefully through the water, and the floor was made of polished shells and stones, creating an intricate mosaic.

Poseidon gestured for Percy to follow him, his demeanor calm but unyielding. "Come," he said. "I will show you your new home."

Percy reluctantly trailed behind, knowing that she can't do anything against a god like him. However, her eyes kept darting around for any possible means of escape. They passed through grand halls and chambers, each more magnificent than the last, until they reached a large room adorned with intricate tapestries depicting scenes of the ocean's grandeur.

"Wait here," Poseidon commanded. "I will summon Proteus to prepare you for dinner."

Before Percy could protest, Poseidon turned and left the room, the heavy doors closing behind him with a resounding thud. Percy immediately rushed to the doors and tried to open them, but they wouldn't budge.

"F*ck!" She cursed. She was trapped.

Her mind raced as she paced the room, trying to come up with a plan. She knew she couldn't stay here, she had to find a way to get back to her world. But how could she escape the grasp of a god?

The sound of footsteps echoed through the hall, and the doors opened once more. A tall, slender elderly man with neatly slicked back hair and fins for ears along with markings near under his eyes. This was Proteus, the god of rivers and Poseidon's most trusted servant.

Proteus regarded Percy with a curious expression. "You must be Percilla Jackson," he said, his voice smooth and melodic. "My Lord has spoken of you."

Percy squared her shoulders, refusing to show any emotion despite the man giving a kind fatherly aura. "It's Percy. And I don't belong here. I need to get back home."

Proteus smiled faintly. "Lord Poseidon is quite taken with you. He believes you are destined to be with him."

"I'm not some prize to be won," Percy retorted. "I have my own life, my own choices. Poseidon can go f*ck himself!"

Proteus gasped, his expression filled with shock and a hint of sadness. " Such defiance is unwise, my lady. I understand your feelings, but my duty is to serve Poseidon. Come with me, and I will prepare you for dinner."

Begrudgingly, Percy followed Proteus through a series of corridors until they reached a smaller chamber filled with garments and accessories that shimmered with an otherworldly beauty. Proteus selected a flowing dress of sea-green silk and handed it to Percy.

"Put this on my Queen," he instructed. "Dinner will be served shortly."

"I am not your Queen!" She yelled, but Proteus pretended to ignore her and left.

"Damn it!"

Percy took the dress, her mind still racing with thoughts of escape. As she changed, she considered her options. She knew she couldn't overpower a god, but maybe she could outsmart them somehow. She needed to look for any opportunity to slip away.

When she was ready, Proteus came back and led her to a grand dining hall where Poseidon awaited. The table was laden with an array of what looks like delicious Greek and Mediterranean dishes. There are foods such as moussaka, horiatiki, tzatziki, saganaki, fasolakia, feta-stuffed peppers, and gigantes plaki. Poseidon rose to greet her, his eyes lighting up with admiration as he took in her appearance.

"You look stunning," he said, offering her a seat, which is very near the god. "I was unsure what mortals eat, so I had the chef make a variety of selections. I know how much you love food."

You are such a creep! Percy inwardly yelled, knowing he knows this about her because he watched her life.

With a frown, she sat down with a hardened resolve. "This doesn't change anything," she said firmly.

Poseidon sighed, his expression showing frustration. "Must you resist so fiercely, Percy? I only wish to make you happy."

Percy met his gaze unwaveringly. "I told you, I don't belong here. No matter what you do, my feelings won't change."

Poseidon looked away, a shadow passing over his face. "Forget this matter. For now, let us dine."

No way will I let this matter go! Thought Percy resentfully, but she did as he said since she is hungry anyway.

As they ate, Percy promised to herself that she would find a way to escape. She would not let Poseidon's twisted sense of love trap her in this underwater palace.

She would fight, even a powerful god like him.

—————————————————————————

After dinner, Poseidon escorted Percy back to her chambers, his gaze lingering on her with a mixture of admiration and frustration. He paused at the door, his expression unreadable.

"Rest well, Percy," he said softly. "Tomorrow, we will explore more of your new home."

Percy forced a smile and nodded. "Goodnight, Poseidon."

The moment the door closed behind him, Percy sprang into action. She surveyed the room, noting the delicate coral lattice windows and the sturdy shell-encrusted door. There had to be a way out. She moved to the windows, pressing her hands against the cool coral, but it was unyielding.

She paced the room, her mind racing. Then, she remembered the dress she had changed out of earlier. Its fabric was lightweight yet strong, perhaps strong enough to fashion a makeshift rope. She quickly retrieved it and began tearing it into long strips, knotting them together with the skill she had learned in survival training back at Camp Half-Blood.

With her makeshift rope ready, she tied one end to the leg of a heavy shell sculpture and approached the window again. This time, she tested the coral lattice with her shoulder, using her full strength. The coral gave a little, but not enough. Frustration bubbled up inside her, but she pushed it down. She couldn't afford to lose hope.

She scanned the room for anything else that could help. Her eyes landed on a small, ornate knife that had been left on a table. It was more decorative than functional, but it was her best option. She grabbed the knife and began to chip away at the coral lattice, her hands shaking with the effort.

Minutes turned into an hour, and finally, she had created a hole large enough to squeeze through. She secured the rope and lowered it out the window, the shimmering palace below making her dizzy. Taking a deep breath, she began her descent, her heart pounding in her chest.

As she reached the halfway point, she heard footsteps approaching her door. Panic surged through her veins. She quickened her pace, her hands burning as they slid down the rope. Just as she reached the ground, the door to her chamber burst open, and Poseidon's furious roar echoed through the palace.

"Percilla!" His voice was a thunderous command, reverberating through the water.

Percy didn't look back. She sprinted through the palace grounds, dodging guards and slipping into shadowed corridors. Her lungs burned with the effort, but she kept going, her mind focused on one thing: freedom.

She burst out of the palace and into the open ocean, the cold water a shock to her system. She swam with all her might, her legs churning through the water as fast as they could. She could feel the palace's magic trying to pull her back, but she fought against it, her determination like a beacon.

Just when she thought she might actually make it, the water around her began to churn violently. A powerful current dragged her backward, and she was flung through the water until she crashed back into the palace courtyard, sprawled on the ground.

Poseidon stood over her, his trident glowing with a menacing light.

He look PISSED.

"Did you really think you could escape me, Percilla?" he demanded, his voice low and dangerous. "You underestimate my power."

Percy struggled to her feet, defiance blazing in her eyes. "Let me go Poseidon," she spat. "You can't keep me here forever with you!"

Poseidon's expression remain hardened. "You will learn to accept your place here," he said, his voice cold. "But until then, I will ensure you cannot run."

With a wave of his trident, chains of shimmering water wrapped around Percy's wrists and ankles, binding her in place. The magic sapped her strength, and she fell to her knees, unable to fight against it.

"Take her to our chambers," Poseidon ordered, and two guards stepped forward to carry her back inside.

"Our?! What do you mean our?!" She yelled angrily.

"I thought it best to place you in your own quarters until you are comfortable and ready, but CLEARLY you cannot be alone." He stressed the word.

"What do you mean ready?! Ready for what?!" But internally, Percy knows what he meant, which she dreaded.

Poseidon didn't bother to answer her. He just turned swiftly away and swam back to the palace.

As she was dragged by the guards, Percy vowed to herself that she would not give up. She would find another way to escape, no matter how many times it took. She is NOT his possession!

Chapter Text

(Present)

Percy tried to clear her mind as the guards led her through the grand corridors. The weight of the chains felt oppressive, each step a reminder of her captivity. She forced herself to stay calm, knowing that panic would only make things worse.

The guards stopped in front of an ornate door, and with a heavy creak, it swung open to reveal Poseidon's chambers. The room was even more lavish than her own, with grand furnishings made of gold and coral, a very large bed draped in sea-green silks, and a view of the underwater realm through a wide window.

Poseidon stood by the window, looking out over his domain. His posture was tense, his trident clutched tightly in one hand. He turned as they entered, his eyes darkening at the sight of Percy in chains.

"Leave us," he commanded, and the guards quickly departed, leaving Percy alone with the god.

"Release me," Percy demanded, struggling to free herself from the binds. "You can't keep me like this!"

"I can and I will if you attempt to escape from me again," Poseidon replied, his voice cold and unwavering. "I need you to understand that you are mine. Any further defiance will only bring more hardship upon yourself."

"I am NOT yours!" Percy screamed at him angrily. "I told you before that I already have a boyfriend!"

Poseidon seemed unbothered by her outburst and approached her slowly, his expression unreadable. "From now on, you will sleep here within my chambers. I cannot trust you to be on your own," he said, his tone leaving no room for argument. "You will remain by my side, where I can keep you safe and ensure you do not attempt another escape."

"I don't need you to keep me safe! I can protect myself!"

"I know that you can protect yourself Percilla. It is yourself you needed to be protected from." Poseidon said, a trace of concern underlying his stern tone.

"What do you mean by that?! You're the one holding me captive!" Percy growled out angrily.

The god's eyes flashed with amusement. "You are strong-willed," he began. "It's one of the things I admire about you. But from what I have witnessed of your life, you tend to constantly put yourself in danger."

"Since you have seen everything of me, then you should know that putting myself in danger is what HEROES do!" She glared at him, her frustration palpable. "And right now, my biggest danger is being stuck here with you!"

The sea god's gaze became intense. "Yes, you are a hero Percilla. You are the strongest demigod of your universe, but you are not invincible."

"I know I am not invincible, but I rather not stay in the same room as you!"

"You have no choice in the matter Percilla. Do not force my hand if you choose to defy me again," Poseidon said, his voice firm.

Percy glared at him, knowing that she have no choice but to accept his terms. Right now, she is powerless. She couldn't even make herself get out of her binds.

Somehow, I will get out of this, she promised herself in her mind.

"Fine, I will stay in this room with you," she gritted out reluctantly.

Poseidon smirked. "Excellent."

"But you better not touch me!" Percy added, her voice a mix of fear and cautiousness.

The god's expression softened slightly, though his eyes remained sharp. "Do not worry Percilla, I have no interest in forcing myself upon you. I will make sure you will come to me willingly."

"NEVER!" Percy yelled.

Poseidon's gaze remained steady, unruffled by her outburst. "You are free to resist Percy, but you will only make things more difficult for yourself."

He turned and walked toward the large bed draped in sea-green silks, gesturing for her to follow. "For now, settle yourself. I will not intrude on your space, but I expect you to remain here and respect my rules."

"Will you please release me from these chains?" Percy asked.

Poseidon paused, his gaze shifting to the chains binding Percy. "Very well," he said after a moment. With a wave of his hand, the chains on her wrists and ankles glowed with a soft, blue light before vanishing.

Percy rubbed her wrists, wincing at the lingering sensation of the chains. She looked up at Poseidon, her eyes wary. "Thank you," she said, though the gratitude in her voice was laced with skepticism.

Poseidon smiled, his eyes glinting. "You are welcome, Percy. Now, you need to get out of that tattered dress."

With another wave of his hand, a delicate nightgown materialized in the air, floating gently down until Poseidon caught it. It was made of shimmering sea-green fabric, matching the silks of the bed. The gown's design was elegant, with intricate patterns resembling ocean waves.

"Wear this after you cleanse yourself." He held the nightgown toward's her. "You will find it comfortable for sleeping."

Percy stared at the nightgown, feeling a pang of discomfort. He calls this comfortable? It looks like a sheer babydoll with a cut that exposes the cleavage, too revealing for her liking.

"Um...can I wear something more...modest?" She asked hesitantly.

The god sighs in disappointment but complied. He materializes another garment, this one a more modest and simple tunic of soft, plain fabric.

He handed it to her. "This should be more to your liking."

Percy took it and thanked him again.

"I will go to my office to finish some paperwork. I expect you to still remain in this room once I get back, understood?" Poseidon said firmly.

The demigod wordlessly nodded.

But Poseidon preferred to hear her voice. "I need you to say it Percy."

"I understand," Percy forced out, irritated by his command.

Poseidon gave a satisfied nod. "Good. Remember Percy, I will be watching. Behave yourself while I'm gone."

With that, he turned and exited the room, leaving Percy alone once more. She watched him go, her mind racing as she tried to think of her next move. The opulent surroundings felt oppressive, but she knew she had to remain calm and focused if she was to find a way out of her situation.

Chapter Text

(Present)

Poseidon sat at his desk, the soft glow of bioluminescent algae providing gentle illumination in his office. The room was a stark contrast to his grand chambers, with its subdued, practical decor. Scrolls and documents were scattered across the desk, evidence of the god's numerous responsibilities.

His mind, however, was not on his work. He found it difficult to concentrate, his thoughts repeatedly returning to the stubborn demigod in his chambers. Percy's defiance was both infuriating and fascinating. He admired her spirit, yet he needed her to understand her place.

With a heavy sigh, Poseidon dipped his fountain pen into the ink well, then resumed focusing on the reports before him. The political tensions between various underwater realms required his immediate attention, but his mind keep wandering back to Percy's fiery eyes and the fierce determination she radiated, even in chains.

"She is even more beautiful when bound," he said to himself, his expression turning lustful.

He would have thrown her on the bed and run his hands over every inch of her body while she begged and struggled in his hold, but he restrained himself. His brother had advised him that he should never be forceful with a woman, which was hypocritical of him to say considering how his relationship with Persephone began.

In order for the woman you love to return her affections, you need to go slow.

So for now, he will be patient with Percilla.

But the question is: how long can he remain patient if his daughter continues to oppose him?
————————————————————————-

Percy entered the bathing room after Poseidon left. The room was as opulent as the rest of the chambers, adorned with smooth, iridescent tiles and a large, sunken tub filled with warm, glowing water. The light from the bioluminescent fixtures cast a soft, calming glow, but Percy found little comfort in the luxurious surroundings.

She approached the tub cautiously, unsure of what to expect. The water looked inviting, but she was wary of its true nature. Hesitantly, she dipped her fingers into the water and found it pleasantly warm.

Nearby, she spotted bottles of shampoo and body soap with intricate designs, along with a few towels.

Percy stares at the bottles, wondering if she should use them of not. There were no other options, and they likely belong to Poseidon.

"Oh great! If I used these, I am going to smell like Poseidon!" She said sarcastically. But she felt icky, and reluctantly, she decided to use them.

She uncapped the bottle of shampoo and smelled it. The smell is a complex, oceanic scent. It made her imagine a fresh sea breeze, with hints of salty seawater, marine algae, and subtle undertones of deep, exotic spices or rare underwater flowers. It was both invigorating and calming.

Admittedly, she like it.

"F*ck! He has good taste in shampoo!" She muttered, reluctantly accepting that Poseidon's choice in personal care products was surprisingly pleasant.

Sighing, she removed her tattered dress, wincing as she noticed the marks left by the chains on her skin. As she settled into the tub, the warm water soothed her aching muscles and calmed her frayed nerves. For a moment, she allowed herself to relax, letting the gentle currents wash away the tension.

As she massaged the fragrant shampoo into her hair, the rich lather and soothing scent provided a brief respite from her anxiety. The body soap, with its delicate, foamy texture, further eased her stress as she washed away any the grime on her body.

As she bathed, her thoughts raced. She couldn't afford to let her guard down, no matter how comfortable the surroundings. Poseidon's intentions were clear, and though he claimed he had no interest in forcing himself upon her, she had a feeling that his behavior was unpredictable and dangerous.

From what she had learned back in her world, she knew never to trust a god.
—————————————————————————-

After quickly completing all of the necessary paperwork, Poseidon decided to see if she had truly behaved while he was gone.

He summoned a shimmering, translucent orb, which floated gently above his desk. With a wave of his hand, he activated it, revealing a magical projection of the bedroom.

To his surprise, she was not there.

For a moment, Poseidon panicked, thinking she might have escaped again, even though he hadn't feel any breach in the barrier. But soon realized she must still be taking her bath.

Then, the sea god wondered if he should still observe her while she was in the bathing chamber.

It should not be wrong for me as her lover to make sure that she is safe. Plus, I needs to ensure she doesn't attempt to escape again while she is in there. Poseidon thought, trying to justify his actions.

With a subtle wave of his hand, he altered the projection, shifting the focus to the bathing room. The shimmering orb adjusted its view to reveal Percy in the tub.

The sight before him was captivating.

The warm, glowing water highlighted the delicate curves of her figure as she moved, her skin glistening under the soft light. Poseidon watched as she massaged his shampoo into her hair, the rich lather cascading down her back. He watched as she used his body soap to cleanse her skin. The foamy bubbles sliding over her body with each movement, leaving her skin sparkling in the gentle light. The luxurious bubbles seems to add an extra layer of intimacy to the scene.

As he observed Percy, Poseidon's gaze grew intense. The sight of the warm water and the soft light played off her skin ignited a burning desire within him. Her movements, slow and deliberate as she rinse the soap away, accentuated her curves and highlighted her vulnerability.

His thoughts grew increasingly aroused. The delicate curve of her neck, the way she tilted her head to let the water cascade down her back, and the soft sensual expressions as she washed, all combined to stir his desires.

Poseidon's fingers twitched, a mix of frustration and longing flooding him. He can almost feel the heat radiating from her, even through the magical projection. He imagined what it will be like to be in that room with her, to touch her, to feel her warmth against his skin.

But he knows that he couldn't touch her.

Not yet.

She needs to come to me willingly, he reminded himself with a tortured expression, feeling the hardness of his rising desire.

There is only one other option he could use to relieve himself of the torment.

So he unfastened his pants.

And began to aggressively pump his c*ck.
—————————————————————————

When Percy finished, she emerged from the tub and dried herself off with a soft towel. The modest tunic Poseidon had provided was laid out on the bed. She slipped into it, feeling slightly more secure in its simplicity compared to the nightgown.

Now, she is undecided if she should just lay on the bed or wait for Poseidon.

"You know what, I'm just going to wait for him so that I can set some boundaries," she told herself and sat on the edge of the bed.

Shortly after she said that, the door opened slowly and Poseidon stepped into the room.

His eyes immediately found hers.

Chapter Text

" You are right Lord Chaos. We do have some questions," replied Zeus.

"Then ask away." Said Chaos expectantly.

"Firstly, are there more demigods besides Percilla in that universe?"

Chao's form seems to sparkle, as if the question amused him. "Yes, Zeus. There are indeed more demigods in that universe. Percilla is not alone in her divine heritage. There are many others, each with their own unique abilities and destinies intertwined with ancient prophecies and the will of their gods."

A murmur ran through the assembled gods.

"Does that mean our counterparts have demigod children?!" Apollo gasped out.

"Correct." Answered Chaos.

"WHAT?!!!" The Greek pantheon (except Hades and Poseidon) and all other deities shouted. Adamas was also about to yell before shutting his mouth lest he gets himself noticed by Poseidon (although he knows he is still alive anyway).

"T-that means...they are our children too!" Ares stuttered out.

"No way!" Shouted Loki in disbelief.

"Well actually...not all of your counterparts have children. Out all of the Olympians in that universe, Hestia, Hera, and Artemis have none."

Hestia didn't know what to feel about it, while Hera and Artemis sighs in relief.

In all honesty, the gods shouldn't be surprised. If Poseidon's counterpart can have a demigod child, why can't they?

They don't know if they should feel disgusted that their children from the other universe are half-mortal, which is strange because this is not supposed to be debatable. They should be mad at the idea of having half-mortal children.

Brunhilde look hopeful.

If the gods care for their demigod children, then there is hope for mankind to be saved. She thought.

Chaos took pleasure in the gods' astonished reactions. Zeus, recovering his composure first, raised his hand to quiet the murmuring assembly.

"Lord Chaos, these demigod children...what are their abilities like?" Zeus asked, his voice steady but tinged with curiosity.

Now every god in the room became curious or interested (except a certain blonde god who could care less).

I wonder what my demigod children are like? Thought Hades.

Chaos's form flickered, the cosmic energy within him swirling in intricate patterns. "Their abilities vary greatly. Some have unique skills born of their mortal experiences. It is their versatility and unpredictability that make them formidable."

"Do we have counterparts with demigod children as well?" Asked Odin on behalf of the other pantheons.

Chaos's form shimmered with a blend of cosmic light as he responded. "Indeed, Odin, your counterparts do have demigod children as well. Just as with the Olympians, their offspring inherit a blend of divine and mortal traits, each possessing a mix of their divine parent's powers and their own unique attributes."

A murmur of interest spread among the gods of the other pantheons.

"Are they as formidable as those from the Greeks?" Susano'o inquired, his tone both respectful and inquisitive.

"Quite so," Chaos answered. "Their abilities are varied and often unpredictable, much like those in the Greek pantheon. They are shaped by their divine heritage as well as their mortal experiences, making them powerful in their own right." (In this story, other pantheons have demigod children, even those that are not mentioned by Rick.)

The gods considered this information, some intrigued, others wary or disgusted. The realization that they, too, had demigod offspring in another universe brought a mix of emotions.

"If you have no other questions, I will take my leave."

Chaos left once there are no more questions. However, Ares cursed himself for forgetting to ask if there are Roman gods.

A new title appears on the screen:

Grover Unexpectedly Loses His Pants

Silence.

"You know what, I am not going to question these titles anymore." Said Loki with a blank face.

Poseidon looks ready to attempt to destroy the screen again since the title indicates that foul creature would flaunt his phallus in front of hi- the half-breed.

Zeus, maintaining his composure, glanced around at the others. "Perhaps we should just proceed. It seems we have no choice but to continue."

As the screen flickered to life, the gods braced themselves for whatever peculiar spectacle awaited them.

Confession time: I ditched Grover as soon as we got to the bus terminal.

"Good." The gods nodded in approval.

I know, I know. It was rude. But Grover was freaking me out, looking at me like I was a dead man, muttering "Why does this always happen?" and "Why does it always have to he sixth grade?"

"What happened in sixth grade?" Asked Loki in wonderment.

Whenever he got upset, Grover's bladder acted up, so I wasn't surprised when, as soon as we got off the bus, he made me promise to wait for him, then made a beeline for the restroom. Instead of waiting, I got my suitcase, slipped outside, and caught the first taxi uptown.

"East One-hundred-and-fourth and First," I told the driver.

A word about my mother, before you meet her.

"So we are going to learn about her mother," stated Hades.

Zeus jumped excitedly in his seat to Hera's annoyance. "Ooooh! Will we finally get to see the woman that is Poseidon's type!"

"Shut your trap Zeus before I kill you!" Poseidon growled out threateningly, but Zeus was unfazed.

"Hey, I wasn't talking about you! I meant the other Poseidon!" Zeus said jokingly.

Her name is Sally Jackson and she's the best person in the world, which just proves my theory that the best people have the rottenest luck. Her own parents died in a plane crash when she was five, and she was raised by an uncle who didn't care much about her. She wanted to be a novelist, so she spent high school working to save enough money for a college with a good creative-writing program. Then her uncle got cancer, and she had to quit school her senior year to take care of him. After he died, she was left with no money, no family, and no diploma.

"How sad," Hestia commented sympathetically. Even some gods like Hades and Zeus felt bad for her.

Other gods like Thor and Beelzebub are just indifferent. Poseidon couldn't care less about the mortal woman.

"Who cares," said Loki with a roll of his eyes.

The only good break she ever got was meeting my dad.

"Finally, something about her father!" Zeus exclaims, leaning forward. The others doing the same.

There is a spark of interest in Poseidon's eyes.

Hmph! Let's see what my counterpart look's like. He thought arrogantly. Would his alternate look perfect as himself?

I don't have any memories of him, just this sort of warm glow, maybe the barest trace of his smile. My mom doesn't like to talk about him because it makes her sad. She has no pictures.

Poseidon frowns in disappointment of his alternate self not being shown.

"So he didn't stay with them," Hades remarked with disapproval.

Now whatever Poseidon's opinion had of his counterpart dropped.

Does his counterpart not claim his child with his own ichor?! How dare he left her living with mortal filth!

"Aww man! I wanted to see what Poseidon's counterpart looks like!" Zeus whined impatiently.

Hades, Hestia, and Adamas sighs.

"Stop acting like a child!" Hera scolded her old hermit looking husband.

See, they weren't married. She told me he was rich and important, and their relationship was a secret. Then one day, he set sail across the Atlantic on some important journey, and he never came back.

Lost at sea, my mom told me. Not dead. Lost at sea.

Loki chuckled. "Really? That's his cover story?"

Poseidon's opinion of his counterpart became worse.

She worked odd jobs, took night classes to get her high school diploma, and raised me on her own. She never complained or got mad. Not even once. But I knew I wasn't an easy kid.

Finally, she married Gabe Ugliano, who was nice the first thirty seconds we knew him, then showed his true colors as a world-class jerk. When I was young, I nicknamed him Smelly Gabe. I'm sorry, but it's the truth. The guy reeked like moldy garlic pizza wrapped in gym shorts.

Some gods shivered at the thought of the smell.

"Ugh, pizza," said a minor Greek god.

Adamas glared at the god, knowing that they never tried it.

Between the two of us, we made my mom's life pretty hard. The way Smelly Gabe treated her, the way he and I got along ... well, when I came home is a good example.

I walked into our little apartment, hoping my mom would be home from work. Instead, Smelly Gabe was in the living room, playing poker with his buddies. The television blared ESPN. Chips and beer cans were strewn all over the carpet.

"Humans are pigs," said a random god disdainfully.

"But aren't they monkeys?" Another god asked, not getting the reference.

"They might as well be," the first god replied with a sneer. "Or better yet, humans are both."

Hardly looking up, he said around his cigar, "So, you're home."

"Where's my mom?"

"Working," he said. "You got any cash?"

That was it. No Welcome back. Good to see you. How has your life been the last six months?

Hestia and Hades frowned at the stepfather's character.

"What a scumbag," Buddha insulted.

Gabe had put on weight. He looked like a tuskless walrus in thrift-store clothes. He had about three hairs on his head, all combed over his bald scalp, as if that made him handsome or something.

Seeing the image of the human walrus on the screen, Aphrodite and others gagged in disgust.

"That is the ugliest mortal I have ever seen," said Shiva, looking grossed out.

Loki snorted. "That human looks like he never showered!"

He managed the Electronics Mega-Mart in Queens, but he stayed home most of the time. I don't know why he hadn't been fired long before. He just kept on collecting paychecks, spending the money on cigars that made me nauseous, and on beer, of course. Always beer. Whenever I was home, he expected me to provide his gambling funds. He called that our "secret." Meaning, if I told my mom, he would punch my lights out.

"WHAT?!!!" Shouted many gods in the room.

Zeus, Hades, Hera, Hestia, and Leto look murderous.

"That mortal trash abused her?!" Shouted Parvati, the Hindu goddess of love and beauty and one of Shiva's wives.

"It is not right to hit a child!" Kali said angrily, the Hindu goddess of death and another wife of Shiva.

"If I ever came across that mutated hippo, I will gut him!" Growled out Durga, the Hindu goddess of war and Shiva's third wife.

They don't care about mortals, but these three wives of Shiva are against child abuse of any sort.

Someone released a deadly aura, causing everyone's eyes nervously turn to the source.

Poseidon.

No one can see his face clearly because his head is down, but everyone felt his emotions.

Clearly he is affected by the demigod's treatment by her stepfather.

"I don't have any cash," I told him.

He raised a greasy eyebrow.

Gabe could sniff out money like a bloodhound, which was surprising, since his own smell should've covered up everything else.

"Ewww." Someone said.

"You took a taxi from the bus station," he said. Probably paid with a twenty. Got six, seven bucks in change. Somebody expects to live under this roof, he ought to carry his own weight. Am I right, Eddie?"

"He can do math," Athena muttered in disbelief.

Eddie, the super of the apartment building, looked at me with a twinge of sympathy. "Come on, Gabe," he said. "The kid just got here."

"At least there is someone that pities her," Hades said with a relieved expression.

"Am I right?" Gabe repeated.

Eddie scowled into his bowl of pretzels. The other two guys passed gas in harmony.

Hades grimaced and regretted his words.

"Filthy mongrels," Poseidon sneered in contempt.

"Fine," I said. I dug a wad of dollars out of my pocket and threw the money on the table. "I hope you lose."

"Your report card came, brain girl!" he shouted after me. "I wouldn't act so snooty!"

I slammed the door to my room, which really wasn't my room. During school months, it was Gabe's "study." He didn't study anything in there except old car magazines, but he loved shoving my stuff in the closet, leaving his muddy boots on my windowsill, and doing his best to make the place smell like his nasty cologne and cigars and stale beer.

All the gods have the urge to kill the nasty human.

"Humans are so dirty..." muttered Hermes, critically eyeing the mess. He is the clean freak of the Greek pantheon.

"Ugh, I don't get the deal about beer. Wine is so much better," Dionysus scoffed.

I dropped my suitcase on the bed. Home sweet home.

Gabe's smell was almost worse than the nightmares about Mrs. Dodds, or the sound of that old fruit lady's shears snipping the yarn.

But as soon as I thought that, my legs felt weak. I remembered Grover's look of panic—how he'd made me promise I wouldn't go home without him. A sudden chill rolled through me. I felt like someone—something—was looking for me right now, maybe pounding its way up the stairs, growing long, horrible talons.

Susano'o, Hades, Hestia, Hercules, and Morpheus frowned in concern.

"The experience with the Fury was quite traumatic for her," Hades stated.

"Hopefully, she won't let it affect her abilities," said Susano'o.

Then I heard my mom's voice. "Percy?"

She opened the bedroom door, and my fears melted.

My mother can make me feel good just by walking into the room. Her eyes sparkle and change color in the light. Her smile is as warm as a quilt. She's got a few gray streaks mixed in with her long brown hair, but I never think of her as old. When she looks at me, it's like she's seeing all the good things about me, none of the bad. I've never heard her raise her voice or say an unkind word to anyone, not even me or Gabe.

"She is quite beautiful despite her age," Aphrodite complimented.

Zeus smiled broadly, " I can see why Poseidon would copulate—"

A trident was thrown towards him, which he dodged seconds away from his head being impaled.

"I WAS NOT TALKING ABOUT YOU BROTHER!"

Having younger siblings is tough, thought Hades and Hestia simultaneously.

"Oh, Percy." She hugged me tight. "I can't believe it. You've grown since Christmas!"

Her red-white-and-blue Sweet on America uniform smelled like the best things in the world: chocolate, licorice, and all the other stuff she sold at the candy shop in Grand Central. She'd brought me a huge bag of "free samples," the way she always did when I came home.

We sat together on the edge of the bed. While I attacked the blueberry sour strings, she ran her hand through my hair and demanded to know everything I hadn't put in my letters. She didn't mention anything about my getting expelled. She didn't seem to care about that. But was I okay? Was her little girl doing all right?

I told her she was smothering me, and to lay off and all that, but secretly, I was really, really glad to see her.

"Awww, how adorable," the goddesses cooed.

From the other room, Gabe yelled, "Hey, Sally—how about some bean dip, huh?"

Everyone scowled at the stepfather's appearance. Their moods have dropped.

I gritted my teeth.

My mom is the nicest lady in the world. She should've been married to a millionaire, not to some jerk like Gabe.

For her sake, I tried to sound upbeat about my last days at Yancy Academy. I told her I wasn't too down about the expulsion. I'd lasted almost the whole year this time. I'd made some new friends. I'd done pretty well in Latin. And honestly, the fights hadn't been as bad as the headmaster said. I liked Yancy Academy. I really did. I put such a good spin on the year, I almost convinced myself. I started choking up, thinking about Grover and Mr. Brunner. Even Nancy Bobofit suddenly didn't seem so bad.

"I feel bad for her," Artemis said in concern.

Until that trip to the museum ...

"What?" my mom asked. Her eyes tugged at my conscience, trying to pull out the secrets. "Did something scare you?"

"No, Mom."

I felt bad lying. I wanted to tell her about Mrs. Dodds and the three old ladies with the yarn, but I thought it would sound stupid.

"It is understandable for her to think her mother would not believe her," said Ares.

"But Poseidon's counterpart did f—" Loki began to say.

"Loki," said Odin and Thor warningly.

She pursed her lips. She knew I was holding back, but she didn't push me.

"I have a surprise for you," she said. "We're going to the beach."

My eyes widened. "Montauk?"

"Three nights—same cabin."

"When?"

She smiled. "As soon as I get changed."

I couldn't believe it. My mom and I hadn't been to Montauk the last two summers, because Gabe said there wasn't enough money.

Gabe appeared in the doorway and growled, "Bean dip, Sally? Didn't you hear me?"

"Can't this piece of shit just go away?!" Said Shiva angrily.

I wanted to punch him, but I met my mom's eyes and I understood she was offering me a deal: be nice to Gabe for a little while. Just until she was ready to leave for Montauk. Then we would get out of here.

"They both should just kill him!" Said Loki.

"They won't do that Loki due to their morals," Thor stated.

"Well that is just stupid! Humans have too many dumb rules!"

The deities mumbled their agreement.

"I was on my way, honey," she told Gabe. "We were just talking about the trip."

Gabe's eyes got small. "The trip? You mean you were serious about that?"

"I knew it," I muttered. "He won't let us go."

"Of course he will," my mom said evenly. "Your stepfather is just worried about money. That's all. Besides," she added, "Gabriel won't have to settle for bean dip. I'll make him enough seven-layer dip for the whole weekend. Guacamole. Sour cream. The works."

"Guacamole is good," Chicometcoatl, the Aztec goddess of agriculture, commented.

Gabe softened a bit. "So this money for your trip ... it comes out of your clothes budget, right?"

"Or course he is cheap," Apollo said in disdain, scowling.

"Yes, honey," my mother said.

"And you won't take my car anywhere but there and back."

"We'll be very careful."

Gabe scratched his double chin. "Maybe if you hurry with that seven-layer dip ... And maybe if the kid apologizes for interrupting my poker game."

Maybe if I kick you in your soft spot, I thought. And make you sing soprano for a week.

Everyone chuckled.

Even Poseidon, surprisingly.

Zeus, Loki, and Anubis couldn't help themselves and laughed boisterously.

"I can't! I just can't with her!" Choked out Loki humorously, clutching his abdomen.

But my mom's eyes warned me not to make him mad.

Why did she put up with this guy? I wanted to scream. Why did she care what he thought?

"That's right," Aphrodite nodded in agreement, "why would she stay with an ugly male like him? There are many other men that can treat them better out there."

"I'm sorry," I muttered. "I'm really sorry I interrupted your incredibly important poker game. Please go back to it right now."

Gabe's eyes narrowed. His tiny brain was probably trying to detect sarcasm in my statement.

Beelzebub is surprised that mortal even has a brain.

"Yeah, whatever," he decided.

He went back to his game.

"Thank you, Percy," my mom said. "Once we get to Montauk, we'll talk more about... whatever you've forgotten to tell me, okay?"

For a moment, I thought I saw anxiety in her eyes—the same fear I'd seen in Grover during the bus ride—as if my mom too felt an odd chill in the air.

The gods glanced at each other.

"Wait, does she know about the dangers towards her daughter?!" Ares exclaimed.

One of the more perceptive gods, Odin answered, "I am sure she does."

But then her smile returned, and I figured I must have been mistaken. She ruffled my hair and went to make Gabe his seven-layer dip.

An hour later we were ready to leave.

Gabe took a break from his poker game long enough to watch me lug my mom's bags to the car. He kept griping and groaning about losing her cooking—and more important, his '78 Camaro—for the whole weekend.

"Not a scratch on this car, brain girl," he warned me as I loaded the last bag. "Not one little scratch."

"Idiot," muttered Buddha. "She is just a kid."

Like I'd be the one driving. I was fourteen. But that didn't matter to Gabe. If a seagull so much as pooped on his paint job, he'd find a way to blame me.

Watching him lumber back toward the apartment building, I got so mad I did something I can't explain. As Gabe reached the doorway, I made the hand gesture I'd seen Grover make on the bus, a sort of warding-off-evil gesture, a clawed hand over my heart, then a shoving movement toward Gabe. The screen door slammed shut so hard it whacked him in the butt and sent him flying up the staircase as if he'd been shot from a cannon. Maybe it was just the wind, or some freak accident with the hinges, but I didn't stay long enough to find out.

"I am surprised that she can do that gesture," said Zeus.

"Wonder what else she will surprise us with," said Hades.

Poseidon didn't comment anything. But whenever his so-called demigod daughter displayed her abilities, he would pay close attention to it.

I got in the Camaro and told my mom to step on it.

Our rental cabin was on the south shore, way out at the tip of Long Island. It was a little pastel box with faded curtains, half sunken into the dunes. There was always sand in the sheets and spiders in the cabinets, and most of the time the sea was too cold to swim in.

I loved the place.

Poseidon subtly nodded in approval. Anywhere near the ocean is good in his books.

We'd been going there since I was a baby. My mom had been going even longer. She never exactly said, but I knew why the beach was special to her. It was the place where she'd met my dad.

The sea god scowled at the mention of his counterpart. Maybe he should change his mind about how he feels of that place.

As we got closer to Montauk, she seemed to grow younger, years of worry and work disappearing from her face. Her eyes turned the color of the sea.

We got there at sunset, opened all the cabin's windows, and went through our usual cleaning routine. We walked on the beach, fed blue corn chips to the seagulls, and munched on blue jelly beans, blue saltwater taffy, and all the other free samples my mom had brought from work.

"Wow, she really likes blue. Like a certain someone I know," commented Zeus.

Poseidon glared at his fool of a brother.

"Both of you don't fight," Hades scolded with a sigh.

I guess I should explain the blue food.

See, Gabe had once told my mom there was no such thing. They had this fight, which seemed like a really small thing at the time. But ever since, my mom went out of her way to eat blue. She baked blue birthday cakes. She mixed blueberry smoothies. She bought blue-corn tortilla chips and brought home blue candy from the shop. This—along with keeping her maiden name, Jackson, rather than calling herself Mrs. Ugliano—was proof that she wasn't totally suckered by Gabe. She did have a rebellious streak, like me.

"It seems that her mother is showing solidarity with her," Athena stated.

When it got dark, we made a fire. We roasted hot dogs and marshmallows. Mom told me stories about when she was a kid, back before her parents died in the plane crash. She told me about the books she wanted to write someday, when she had enough money to quit the candy shop.

Eventually, I got up the nerve to ask about what was always on my mind whenever we came to Montauk—my father. Mom's eyes went all misty. I figured she would tell me the same things she always did, but I never got tired of hearing them.

"Okay, can we finally hear more important info about her father this time?" Apollo said impatiently.

"He was kind, Percy," she said. "Tall, handsome, and powerful. But gentle, too. You have his black hair, you know, and his green eyes."

"So she have more of her father's features," commented Zeus, "that is like the total opposite of yours, brother."

The sea tyrant looks ready to attack him.

"Shut up, Zeus!" Yelled Hera angrily.

Mom fished a blue jelly bean out of her candy bag. "I wish he could see you, Percy. He would be so proud."

I wondered how she could say that. What was so great about me? A dyslexic, hyperactive girl with a D+ report card, kicked out of school for the sixth time in six years.

"How old was I?" I asked. "I mean ... when he left?"

She watched the flames. "He was only with me for one summer, Percy. Right here at this beach. This cabin."

"But... he knew me as a baby."

"No, honey. He knew I was expecting a baby, but he never saw you. He had to leave before you were born."

"But she saw him though, right?" Asked Ares, unsure. He was referring to the memory she had shown.

"She may have dreamt of him," Morpheus suggested.

I tried to square that with the fact that I seemed to remember ... something about my father. A warm glow. A smile.

"No, her memory is too accurate to be a dream," Odin refuted.

I had always assumed he knew me as a baby. My mom had never said it outright, but still, I'd felt it must be true. Now, to be told that he'd never even seen me ...

I felt angry at my father. Maybe it was stupid, but I resented him for going on that ocean voyage, for not having the guts to marry my mom. He'd left us, and now we were stuck with Smelly Gabe.

Poseidon unconsciously clenched his fist, but upon realizing it he stopped.

That half mortal does not matter to me! He reminded himself.

"Are you going to send me away again?" I asked her. "To another boarding school?"

She pulled a marshmallow from the fire.

"I don't know, honey." Her voice was heavy. "I think ... I think we'll have to do something."

"Because you don't want me around?" I regretted the words as soon as they were out.

"Oh no..." Spoke Göll worriedly, standing beside Brunhilde.

"Oh my..." Leto feels sad for her. She understood that children don't want to disappoint their mother.

My mom's eyes welled with tears. She took my hand, squeezed it tight. "Oh, Percy, no. I—I have to, honey. For your own good. I have to send you away."

Her words reminded me of what Mr. Brunner had said—that it was best for me to leave Yancy.

"Because I'm not normal," I said.

The entire council room at this point became quiet.

"You say that as if it's a bad thing, Percy. But you don't realize how important you are. I thought YancyAcademy would be far enough away. I thought you'd finally be safe."

"Safe from what?"

"She definitely knows her daughter is in danger," Buddha stated.

She met my eyes, and a flood of memories came back to me—all the weird, scary things that had ever happened to me, some of which I'd tried to forget.

During third grade, a man in a black trench coat had stalked me on the playground. When the teachers threatened to call the police, he went away growling, but no one believed me when I told them that under his broad-brimmed hat, the man only had one eye, right in the middle of his head.

"A Cyclop!" The Greek gods exclaimed.

"What is that creature's reason for being near her?" Questioned Zeus.

"The Cyclops are part of Poseidon's domain, so he must be there to watch the girl by the order of her father," Hades answered.

Poseidon continues to look displeased.

Before that—a really early memory. I was in preschool, and a teacher accidentally put me down for a nap in a cot that a snake had slithered into. My mom screamed when she came to pick me up and found me playing with a limp, scaly rope I'd somehow managed to strangle to death with my meaty toddler hands.

The deities, including Poseidon, looked impressed.

Thor smirked in approval.

"Even as a little tot, she can strangle a snake," said Shiva in amusement.

In every single school, something creepy had happened, something unsafe, and I was forced to move.

"Seems that the monsters kept coming after her," Beelzebub said observantly.

Poseidon suddenly feels uneasy.

I knew I should tell my mom about the old ladies at the fruit stand, and Mrs. Dodds at the art museum, about my weird hallucination that I had sliced my math teacher into dust with a sword. But I couldn't make myself tell her. I had a strange feeling the news would end our trip to Montauk, and I didn't want that.

"I've tried to keep you as close to me as I could," my mom said. "They told me that was a mistake. But there's only one other option, Percy—the place your father wanted to send you. And I just... I just can't stand to do it."

"My alternate self wanted to send her somewhere?" Said Poseidon curiously.

"My father wanted me to go to a special school?"

"Not a school," she said softly. "A summer camp."

"A summer camp?!" The gods exclaimed in confusion.

My head was spinning. Why would my dad—who hadn't even stayed around long enough to see me born— talk to my mom about a summer camp? And if it was so important, why hadn't she ever mentioned it before?

"I'm sorry, Percy," she said, seeing the look in my eyes. "But I can't talk about it. I—I couldn't send you to that place. It might mean saying good-bye to you for good."

"For good? But if it's only a summer camp ..."

"Is there something special about a summer camp?" Questioned Artemis.

She turned toward the fire, and I knew from her expression that if I asked her any more questions she would start to cry.

That night I had a vivid dream.

It was storming on the beach, and two beautiful animals, a white horse and a golden eagle, were trying to kill each other at the edge of the surf. The eagle swooped down and slashed the horse's muzzle with its huge talons. The horse reared up and kicked at the eagles wings. As they fought, the ground rumbled, and a monstrous voice chuckled somewhere beneath the earth, goading the animals to fight harder.

"That looks prophetic," said Apollo. "I wonder what it could mean."

The gods look thoughtful, trying to figure it out.

I ran toward them, knowing I had to stop them from killing each other, but I was running in slow motion. I knew I would be too late. I saw the eagle dive down, its beak aimed at the horse's wide eyes, and I screamed, No!

I woke with a start.

Outside, it really was storming, the kind of storm that cracks trees and blows down houses. There was no horse or eagle on the beach, just lightning making false daylight, and twenty-foot waves pounding the dunes like artillery.

With the next thunderclap, my mom woke. She sat up, eyes wide, and said, "Hurricane."

I knew that was crazy. Long Island never sees hurricanes this early in the summer. But the ocean seemed to have forgotten. Over the roar of the wind, I heard a distant bellow, an angry, tortured sound that made my hair stand on end.

"Huh, weird. Maybe my counterpart is angry," Zeus remarked.

Then a much closer noise, like mallets in the sand. A desperate voice—someone yelling, pounding on our cabin door.

"Who the hell is yelling?!" Yelled out Muninn, flapping his wings in annoyance.

My mother sprang out of bed in her nightgown and threw open the lock.

Grover stood framed in the doorway against a backdrop of pouring rain. But he wasn't... he wasn't exactly Grover.

"It's the damn Satyr," Poseidon said angrily.

"Not exactly Grover, huh? Come on, show her!" Loki said giddily on the edge of his seat.

"Loki...." Again, Odin and Thor said warningly.

"Come on! We know he is a Satyr already! I just want to see if he is really going to show her his—"

"STOP, LOKI!" Cried out Huginn and Muninn.

"Look at Poseidon," Huginn whispered harshly, gesturing with a wing towards the Greek sea god.

Poseidon is looking darkly at Loki.

The god of mischief gulped fearfully.

Okay, I should shut up.

"Searching all night," he gasped. "What were you thinking?"

My mother looked at me in terror—not scared of Grover, but of why he'd come.

"Percy," she said, shouting to be heard over the rain. "What happened at school? What didn't you tell me?"

I was frozen, looking at Grover. I couldn't understand what I was seeing.

"O Zeu kai alloi theoi!" he yelled. "It's right behind me! Didn't you tell her?"

"What did he say?" Asked Izanagi, the Shinto god of creation in confusion. The non-Greek pantheons also showing the same expression.

"He said 'Oh Zeus and the other Gods!" Apollo answered him.

I was too shocked to register that he'd just cursed in Ancient Greek, and I'd understood him perfectly. I was too shocked to wonder how Grover had gotten here by himself in the middle of the night. Because Grover didn't have his pants on—and where his legs should be ... where his legs should be ...

He better not flash her....Thought all of the deities in the room.

My mom looked at me sternly and talked in a tone she'd never used before: "Percy. Tell me now!"

I stammered something about the old ladies at the fruit stand, and Mrs. Dodds, and my mom stared at me, her face deathly pale in the flashes of lightning.

She grabbed her purse, tossed me my rain jacket, and said, "Get to the car. Both of you. Go!"

"Yep, she knew," stated Buddha.

"I believe by having her daughter go to different schools, she is trying to keep her safe," stated Hades.

Grover ran for the Camaro—but he wasn't running, exactly. He was trotting, shaking his shaggy hindquarters, and suddenly his story about a muscular disorder in his legs made sense to me. I understood how he could run so fast and still limp when he walked.

Because where his feet should be, there were no feet. There were cloven hooves.

The screen turns black again, signaling the end of the scene.

"So obviously, we knew he is a Satyr from when he was running before," said Athena. "The ending of this scene was no surprise."

"Where is his d*ck?!" Exclaimed Anubis.

Chapter Text

The members of the Egyptian pantheon stiffened.

"Anubis!" Ra-Horakhty, the Egyptian god of the sun yelled, glaring at Anubis with a burning intensity.

"What? I am just curious! The Satyr was not wearing underwear, so I'm quite concerned why—"

"Enough you fool!" Before Poseidon kills you!

Said sea god is staring at them with chilling intensity.

The members of the Egyptian pantheon shook their heads tiredly.

The next title appears:

My Mother Teaches Me Bullfighting

"Hey, Chaos didn't appear again this time," Apollo realized. "Shall we wait or..."

Zeus stroked his beard "Hmm, I guess he either is preoccupied or doesn't feel like popping up this time. Let's all just continue with watching."

We tore through the night along dark country roads. Wind slammed against the Camaro. Rain lashed the windshield. I didn't know how my mom could see anything, but she kept her foot on the gas.

Every time there was a flash of lightning, I looked at Grover sitting next to me in the backseat and I wondered if I'd gone insane, or if he was wearing some kind of shag-carpet pants. But, no, the smell was one I remembered from kindergarten field trips to the petting zoo— lanolin, like from wool. The smell of a wet barnyard animal.

"Can't the damn Satyr put his f*cking pants back on!" Artemis complained.

"She is a girl. Why is she so casual about the Satyr being basically nude at the bottom?" Athena frowned, crossing her arms. "It's highly inappropriate."

Poseidon looks ready to explode.

If I ever get my hands on that Satyr, I will rip his c*ck out and shove it down his throat! He thought savagely.

All I could think to say was, "So, you and my mom... know each other?"

Grover's eyes flitted to the rearview mirror, though there were no cars behind us. "Not exactly," he said. "I mean, we've never met in person. But she knew I was watching you."

"Watching me?"

Ice forms around the windows of the, then suddenly the glass shattered, startling everyone.

"Uh...who did that?" Asked the scared Göll.

The stoic Brunhilde didn't answer but she glanced at where Poseidon sat, who looks like he is not having a good time.

"Her mother approves of this Satyr watching her?! Well, he better not have watched her take her clothes off!" Yelled Durga.

"Or showered!" Added Artemis, still not comfortable about those two being roommates in that school.

Hades and Poseidon's face darkened.

"Keeping tabs on you. Making sure you were okay. But I wasn't faking being your friend," he added hastily. "I am your friend."

"He is actually being sincere," said Apollo.

"She doesn't need a Satyr as a friend. He is worthless," Poseidon stated in contempt.

Ares and Apollo shared a look.

"I think he is starting to care for her," whispered Ares to Apollo since they sat next to each other.

"Definitely, but he likely won't ever admit it," Apollo whispered back.

"Urn ... what are you, exactly?"

"That doesn't matter right now."

"It doesn't matter? He should tell her now!" Shouted Loki.

"It doesn't matter? From the waist down, my best friend is a donkey—"

The gods snorted in amusement.

Grover let out a sharp, throaty "Blaa-ha-ha!"

I'd heard him make that sound before, but I'd always assumed it was a nervous laugh. Now I realized it was more of an irritated bleat.

"Goat!" he cried.

"What?"

"I'm a goat from the waist down."

"You just said it didn't matter."

"Blaa-ha-ha! There are satyrs who would trample you underhoof for such an insult!"

"Try it on my niece, and I'll obliterate those Satyrs to smithereens," Zeus said threateningly.

"She is not your niece," Poseidon snapped.

Zeus rolled his eyes. Whatever you say brother.

"Whoa. Wait. Satyrs. You mean like ... Mr. Brunner's myths?"

"It is not a myth my dear," chuckled Hades.

Persephone, the Greek goddess of spring perked up hearing the term of endearment from her husband.

She had hoped someone else would catch his attention so that she can get a divorce. Staying by his side for eons, she had been sick of him for the past millennium. The 6 months thing was getting annoying.

But she then sighs in disappointment because she realized the word was just directed to a 14 year old girl, so it was not expressed romantically.

Her hopes of ever getting her freedom is dashed further.

"Were those old ladies at the fruit stand a myth, Percy? Was Mrs. Dodds a myth?"

"So you admit there was a Mrs. Dodds!"

"Of course."

"How annoying," said Shiva.

"Then why—"

"The less you knew, the fewer monsters you'd attract," Grover said, like that should be perfectly obvious. "We put Mist over the humans' eyes. We hoped you'd think the Kindly One was a hallucination. But it was no good. You started to realize who you are.

Interesting, thought Hades, Odin, and Susano'o.

"So this Mist is a sort of glamour," Hades stated. "I wonder how it is done since we don't have it here."

For some reason, the Mist caught the attention of Hecate, Greek goddess of magic and necromancy. It felt like something she would have created.

"Do you think they put Mist to hide their gods from human eyes?" Asked Susano'o.

"If that is true, then it is hella stupid! Us gods shouldn't hide ourselves from mere mortals!" Loki scoffed.

"Who I—wait a minute, what do you mean?"

The weird bellowing noise rose up again somewhere behind us, closer than before. Whatever was chasing us was still on our trail.

"Wait a minute...something was chasing them?!"Zeus exclaimed.

"When did that started?" Said Hephaestus, the Greek god of blacksmithing in confusion.

Poseidon gripped his armrests again.

"Percy," my mom said, "there's too much to explain and not enough time. We have to get you to safety."

"Safety from what? Who's after me?"

"Oh, nobody much," Grover said, obviously still miffed about the donkey comment. "Just the Lord of the Dead and a few of his blood-thirstiest minions."

"Lord of the Dead...he is talking about your alternate self brother!" Zeus pointed out to Hades.

Hades narrowed his eyes. "Why would my counterpart sent monsters after her?"

"Grover!"

"Sorry, Mrs. Jackson. Could you drive faster, please?"

I tried to wrap my mind around what was happening, but I couldn't do it. I knew this wasn't a dream. I had no imagination. I could never dream up something this weird.

My mom made a hard left. We swerved onto a narrower road, racing past darkened farmhouses and wooded hills and PICK YOUR OWN STRAWBERRIES signs on white picket fences.

"Where are we going?" I asked.

"The summer camp I told you about." My mother's voice was tight; she was trying for my sake not to be scared. "The place your father wanted to send you."

"So they are heading to the summer camp. I hope we learn more about it since it seems so important," said Athena.

"The place you didn't want me to go."

"It is suspicious why her mother is reluctant to send her to this summer camp despite the other Poseidon wanting her to," said Odin. "Clearly it is not a normal place."

"Please, dear," my mother begged. "This is hard enough. Try to understand. You're in danger."

"Because some old ladies cut yarn."

Dionysus snorted. "They are not just some old ladies."

"Those weren't old ladies," Grover said. "Those were the Fates. Do you know what it means—the fact they appeared in front of you? They only do that when you're about to ... when someone's about to die."

The deities gasped.

"So she is about to die?!" Yelled Ares.

"That poor child," said Hestia pityingly.

Hades, Zeus, and Adamas look worried while Poseidon has a blank expression. He seems to have froze.

"Whoa. You said 'you.'"

"No I didn't. I said 'someone.'"

"You meant 'you.' As in me."

"I meant you, like 'someone.' Not you, you."

"Okay, that is enough," chuckled Buddha, chewing his snacks.

"Children!" my mom said.

She pulled the wheel hard to the right, and I got a glimpse of a figure she'd swerved to avoid—a dark fluttering shape now lost behind us in the storm.

"Is that something that was chasing them?" Asked  Artemis.

"I think it was sister," replied Apollo.

"Hopefully, it's gone," said Leto.

"What was that?" I asked.

"We're almost there," my mother said, ignoring my question. "Another mile. Please. Please. Please."

I didn't know where there was, but I found myself leaning forward in the car, anticipating, wanting us to arrive.

Outside, nothing but rain and darkness—the kind of empty countryside you get way out on the tip of Long Island. I thought about Mrs. Dodds and the moment when she'd changed into the thing with pointed teeth and leathery wings. My limbs went numb from delayed shock. She really hadn't been human. She'd meant to kill me.

"Obviously," Loki said.

Then I thought about Mr. Brunner ... and the sword he had thrown me.

"Oh yeah, that pen! I totally forgotten about that," said Zeus. "That unremarkable looking pen thrown by that weird teacher had changed into a sword in her hands."

"It will likely appear again," spoke Hades. "I have a feeling it will be very important to her."

Before I could ask Grover about that, the hair rose on the back of my neck. There was a blinding flash, a jaw-rattling boom!, and our car exploded.

"SH*T!!!" Shouted everyone in the room.

"Did she just die?!" Cried out Aphrodite.

"NO!!!" A unexpected voice screamed out. Everyone turned their heads towards the source.

Poseidon.

He had abruptly stood up from his seat. To everyone's surprise, his usually blank eyes are wide and trembling.

I remember feeling weightless, like I was being crushed, fried, and hosed down all at the same time.

I peeled my forehead off the back of the driver's seat and said, "Ow."

"Percy!" my mom shouted.

"I'm okay... ."

Unexpectedly, all the deities sighs in relief. Even Poseidon previously tensed body relaxed a bit, and he sat back down.

I tried to shake off the daze. I wasn't dead. The car hadn't really exploded. We'd swerved into a ditch. Our driver's-side doors were wedged in the mud. The roof had cracked open like an eggshell and rain was pouring in.

Lightning. That was the only explanation. We'd been blasted right off the road. Next to me in the backseat was a big motionless lump. "Grover!"

He was slumped over, blood trickling from the side of his mouth. I shook his furry hip, thinking, No! Even if you are half barnyard animal, you're my best friend and I don't want you to die!

"That is sweet of her," Hestia remarked.

"To help a Satyr?" Said Hera in disgust, "She should've left that garbage."

Poseidon agrees. That Satyr is useless baggage.

Then he groaned "Food," and I knew there was hope.

"Percy," my mother said, "we have to ..." Her voice faltered.

I looked back. In a flash of lightning, through the mud-spattered rear windshield, I saw a figure lumbering toward us on the shoulder of the road. The sight of it made my skin crawl. It was a dark silhouette of a huge guy, like a football player. He seemed to be holding a blanket over his head. His top half was bulky and fuzzy. His upraised hands made it look like he had horns.

"Ugh! What is hell is that?!" Aphrodite shouted, looking disgusted

I swallowed hard. "Who is—"

"Percy," my mother said, deadly serious. "Get out of the car."

My mother threw herself against the driver's-side door. It was jammed shut in the mud. I tried mine. Stuck too. I looked up desperately at the hole in the roof. It might've been an exit, but the edges were sizzling and smoking.

"Climb out the passenger's side!" my mother told me. "Percy—you have to run. Do you see that big tree?"

"What?"

Another flash of lightning, and through the smoking hole in the roof I saw the tree she meant: a huge, White House Christmas tree-sized pine at the crest of the nearest hill.

"That's the property line," my mom said. "Get over that hill and you'll see a big farmhouse down in the valley. Run and don't look back. Yell for help. Don't stop until you reach the door."

"Mom, you're coming too."

Her face was pale, her eyes as sad as when she looked at the ocean.

"She is not coming with her," stated Leto sadly. Zeus and Hades felt bad for them.

"No!" I shouted. "You are coming with me. Help me carry Grover."

"She should just leave him," said Beelzebub. "He will only slow her down."

"Food!" Grover moaned, a little louder.

"Incompetent fool," Poseidon sneered.

The man with the blanket on his head kept coming toward us, making his grunting, snorting noises. As he got closer, I realized he couldn't be holding a blanket over his head, because his hands—huge meaty hands—were swinging at his sides. There was no blanket. Meaning the bulky, fuzzy mass that was too big to be his head ... was his head. And the points that looked like horns ...

"Horns...another Satyr?" Questioned Ares.

"I don't think so. The horns are way longer and curved. And his lower body is still hidden. I am trying to remember what creature it would matched in our universe," said Apollo.

Poseidon remained still, eyes glued to the screen.

"He doesn't want us," my mother told me. "He wants you. Besides, I can't cross the property line."

"He wants her? That must be one of the monsters sent by the other Hades," said Zeus.

Hades frowned. He is starting to view his counterpart negatively. But is that monster sent to capture her or to harm her?

"But..."

"We don't have time, Percy. Go. Please."

I got mad, then—mad at my mother, at Grover the goat, at the thing with horns that was lumbering toward us slowly and deliberately like, like a bull.

"A bull..." mumbled Apollo. "Could it be?"

I climbed across Grover and pushed the door open into the rain. "We're going together. Come on, Mom."

"I told you—"

"Mom! I am not leaving you. Help me with Grover."

Hera and Leto smiled approvingly at the girl not willing to abandon her mom.

"They shouldn't have to bring the Satyr," muttered Adamas.

I didn't wait for her answer. I scrambled outside, dragging Grover from the car. He was surprisingly light, but I couldn't have carried him very far if my mom hadn't come to my aid.

Together, we draped Grover's arms over our shoulders and started stumbling uphill through wet waist-high grass.

Glancing back, I got my first clear look at the monster. He was seven feet tall, easy, his arms and legs like something from the cover of Muscle Man magazine—bulging biceps and triceps and a bunch of other 'ceps, all stuffed like baseballs under vein-webbed skin. He wore no clothes except underwear—I mean, bright white Fruit of the Looms—which would've looked funny, except that the top half of his body was so scary. Coarse brown hair started at about his belly button and got thicker as it reached his shoulders.

Aphrodite gagged at the ugliness of the creature.

"That creature is the Minotaur!" Apollo yelled, finally figuring it out.

His neck was a mass of muscle and fur leading up to his enormous head, which had a snout as long as my arm, snotty nostrils with a gleaming brass ring, cruel black eyes, and horns—enormous black-and-white horns with points you just couldn't get from an electric sharpener.

I recognized the monster, all right. He had been in one of the first stories Mr. Brunner told us. But he couldn't be real.

I blinked the rain out of my eyes. "That's—"

"Pasiphae's son," my mother said. "I wish I'd known how badly they want to kill you."

"She knows what that thing is," stated Beelzebub.

"But he's the Min—"

"Don't say his name," she warned. "Names have power."

"Really? Names have power over there?" Questioned Zeus.

The pine tree was still way too far—a hundred yards uphill at least.

I glanced behind me again.

The bull-man hunched over our car, looking in the windows—or not looking, exactly. More like snuffling, nuzzling. I wasn't sure why he bothered, since we were only about fifty feet away.

"Food?" Grover moaned.

"Seriously?! Is that all he can say right now?! He needs to f*cking get up!" Said an annoyed Loki.

"I don't think that creature can protect them if he tries," sneered Artemis.

"He is deadweight," added Shiva.

Poseidon is just angry at the sight of the useless trash. Percilla should just left him for dead.

"Shhh," I told him. "Mom, what's he doing? Doesn't he see us?"

"His sight and hearing are terrible," she said. "He goes by smell. But he'll figure out where we are soon enough."

"Her mother is quite knowledgeable about the creature," stated Athena approvingly.

As if on cue, the bull-man bellowed in rage. He picked up Gabe's Camaro by the torn roof, the chassis creaking and groaning. He raised the car over his head and threw it down the road. It slammed into the wet asphalt and skidded in a shower of sparks for about half a mile before coming to a stop. The gas tank exploded.

Not a scratch, I remembered Gabe saying.

Oops.

Suddenly, everyone bursted into laughter.

"Heh," Poseidon chuckled, again to everyone's surprise.

"That blob of flesh of a stepfather deserves it," said Buddha in amusement.

"Percy," my mom said. "When he sees us, he'll charge. Wait until the last second, then jump out of the way— directly sideways. He can't change directions very well once he's charging. Do you understand?"

"How do you know all this?"

"Yeah, how do you know all this?" Repeated Muninn.

"I've been worried about an attack for a long time. I should have expected this. I was selfish, keeping you near me."

"So she studied the monsters to prepare herself for an attack in order to protect her daughter. How astute of her," complimented Hades.

"Of course that woman is selfish," Poseidon suddenly spoke up, "a mortal cannot protect her daughter from the supernatural. Her lover should have claimed his daughter and keep her in his domain."

"So are you going to do it," Zeus piped up without thought.

Hades, Hestia, and Hera smacked their foreheads.

Poseidon bared his teeth, "Watch your tongue, Zeus. We may be brothers, but I will not hesitate to end you."

You should've listened to me and we could've ended him together, thought Adamas grudgingly.

"Keeping me near you? But—"

Another bellow of rage, and the bull-man started tromping uphill.

He'd smelled us.

"Uh-oh," said Huginn and Muninn.

The pine tree was only a few more yards, but the hill was getting steeper and slicker, and Grover wasn't getting any lighter.

"I understand she doesn't want to abandon her friend, but still," said Artemis with a hint of worry.

The bull-man closed in. Another few seconds and he'd be on top of us.

My mother must've been exhausted, but she shouldered Grover. "Go, Percy! Separate! Remember what I said."

I didn't want to split up, but I had the feeling she was right—it was our only chance. I sprinted to the left, turned, and saw the creature bearing down on me. His black eyes glowed with hate. He reeked like rotten meat.

He lowered his head and charged, those razor-sharp horns aimed straight at my chest.

All eyes widened. Some gods held their breath.

Poseidon eyes fixed on the screen, unwilling to miss any detail of anything that comes next.

The fear in my stomach made me want to bolt, but that wouldn't work. I could never outrun this thing. So I held my ground, and at the last moment, I jumped to the side.

Many deities gasped at how quick the demigod dodged the monster.

"She is very fast," commented Thor, looking intrigued.

The bull-man stormed past like a freight train, then bellowed with frustration and turned, but not toward me this time, toward my mother, who was setting Grover down in the grass.

"Oh no," said Hestia worriedly.

We'd reached the crest of the hill. Down the other side I could see a valley, just as my mother had said, and the lights of a farmhouse glowing yellow through the rain. But that was half a mile away. We'd never make it.

The bull-man grunted, pawing the ground. He kept eyeing my mother, who was now retreating slowly downhill, back toward the road, trying to lead the monster away from Grover.

"Run, Percy!" she told me. "I can't go any farther. Run!"

"Yeah run! Just leave her and that Satyr!" Shouted Loki.

Hestia, Hera, and Leto glared at Loki for suggesting she leave her mother.

But I just stood there, frozen in fear, as the monster charged her. She tried to sidestep, as she'd told me to do, but the monster had learned his lesson. His hand shot out and grabbed her by the neck as she tried to get away. He lifted her as she struggled, kicking and pummeling the air.

Some of the gods actually look worried, even Hades and Zeus.

"I can't watch this," said Hestia, turning away from the scene.

"Mom!"

She caught my eyes, managed to choke out one last word: "Go!"

Then, with an angry roar, the monster closed his fists around my mother's neck, and she dissolved before my eyes, melting into light, a shimmering golden form, as if she were a holographic projection. A blinding flash, and she was simply ... gone.

Silence.

"What the f*ck just happened?" Said Shiva in disbelief.

"Hey, where did that lady go? She is dead right?" Anubis asked in confusion.

"Her mother just disappeared!" Hera exclaimed in shock.

Hades and Zeus shared a look, wondering what could have caused such the sudden vanishing act.

"It is hard to tell if the Minotaur actually killed her," Susano'o spoke up.

Poseidon couldn't care less what happened to the woman. The only one that matters is—

He stopped himself from thinking further.

"No!"

Anger replaced my fear. Newfound strength burned in my limbs—the same rush of energy I'd gotten when Mrs. Dodds grew talons.

The bull-man bore down on Grover, who lay helpless in the grass. The monster hunched over, snuffling my best friend, as if he were about to lift Grover up and make him dissolve too.

"Do it you hideous bulk of furry muscle! You will be doing us a huge favor!" Cheered Loki. The other gods voiced their agreement.

I couldn't allow that.

"Hey, don't stop him girl!" Shouted the trickster god.

I stripped off my red rain jacket.

"Now what she is planning to do?" Wondered Ares.

"Hey!" I screamed, waving the jacket, running to one side of the monster. "Hey, stupid! Ground beef!"

Some gods laughed.

Zeus and Hades let out a small chuckle.

"She needs a more colorful insult than that," said Buddha, smiling amusedly.

"Raaaarrrrr!" The monster turned toward me, shaking his meaty fists.

I had an idea—a stupid idea, but better than no idea at all. I put my back to the big pine tree and waved my red jacket in front of the bull-man, thinking I'd jump out of the way at the last moment.

But it didn't happen like that.

The bull-man charged too fast, his arms out to grab me whichever way I tried to dodge.

Time slowed down.

Now, everyone was intent on not missing a single detail.

My legs tensed. I couldn't jump sideways, so I leaped straight up, kicking off from the creature's head, using it as a springboard, turning in midair, and landing on his neck.

All the deities look stunned at her, their expressions showing a mix of disbelief and awe.

Even Poseidon looked speechless.

"I don't think she has done those moves before. I doubt she had any training before this," said Ares, still shook from the scene.

How did I do that? I didn't have time to figure it out. A millisecond later, the monster's head slammed into the tree and the impact nearly knocked my teeth out.

The bull-man staggered around, trying to shake me. I locked my arms around his horns to keep from being thrown. Thunder and lightning were still going strong. The rain was in my eyes. The smell of rotten meat burned my nostrils.

The monster shook himself around and bucked like a rodeo bull. He should have just backed up into the tree and smashed me flat, but I was starting to realize that this thing had only one gear: forward.

"Smart thinking," complimented Apollo.

Meanwhile, Grover started groaning in the grass. I wanted to yell at him to shut up, but the way I was getting tossed around, if I opened my mouth I'd bite my own tongue off.

"Food!" Grover moaned.

"That Satyr needs to shut up or die!" Yelled out a random god.

The bull-man wheeled toward him, pawed the ground again, and got ready to charge. I thought about how he had squeezed the life out of my mother, made her disappear in a flash of light, and rage filled me like high-octane fuel. I got both hands around one horn and I pulled backward with all my might. The monster tensed, gave a surprised grunt, then—snap!

Again, gasps are heard in the entire council room.

"What the—?!" Shiva yelped out in shock.

"She snap that creature's horn!" Said Zeus in surprise.

"What strength for being only being half mortal," said Hades in awe.

Hercules seems to have stars in his eyes.

"How formidable of her," commented Odin. Thor and Susano'o nodded in agreement, looking amazed.

When he saw what Percilla did to that creature, Poseidon couldn't believe it.

For a half-divine being, and a child at that, she was astonishingly powerful.

He was....impressed.

The bull-man screamed and flung me through the air. I landed flat on my back in the grass. My head smacked against a rock. When I sat up, my vision was blurry, but I had a horn in my hands, a ragged bone weapon the size of a knife.

The monster charged.

Without thinking, I rolled to one side and came up kneeling. As the monster barreled past, I drove the broken horn straight into his side, right up under his furry rib cage.

Many of the deities cheered.

"YES! KILL HIM!!" Screamed Zeus, jumping on his throne with a bloodthirsty look.

"Sit back down you fool!" Yelled Hera at the immaturity of her husband.

The bull-man roared in agony. He flailed, clawing at his chest, then began to disintegrate—not like my mother, in a flash of golden light, but like crumbling sand, blown away in chunks by the wind, the same way Mrs. Dodds had burst apart.

"What?! That monster disappeared too!" Shouted Ares.

"No way! I wanted to see blood! Did it at least die?" Said Zeus in disappointment.

The monster was gone.

The rain had stopped. The storm still rumbled, but only in the distance. I smelled like livestock and my knees were shaking. My head felt like it was splitting open. I was weak and scared and trembling with grief I'd just seen my mother vanish. I wanted to lie down and cry, but there was Grover, needing my help, so I managed to haul him up and stagger down into the valley, toward the lights of the farmhouse. I was crying, calling for my mother, but I held on to Grover—I wasn't going to let him go.

"I admire her perseverance," complimented Hercules, finally speaking up.

"She should have still leave the Satyr though," Loki sneered, voice dripping with disdain.

The last thing I remember is collapsing on a wooden porch, looking up at a ceiling fan circling above me, moths flying around a yellow light, and the stern faces of a familiar-looking bearded man and a attractive boy, his blond hair curled like a prince's. They both looked down at me, and the boy said, "She's the one. She must be."

"Silence, Anthony," the man said. "She's still conscious. Bring her inside."

"Who the f*ck are they?" Asked Zeus.

"The blonde boy's name is Anthony," Hades stated.

"Had they been watching her this whole time?!" Said Athena angrily.

"And what did the boy mean by 'she's the one'?" Asked Odin.

Poseidon became angry that those two insignificant bystanders didn't bother to help Percilla and just stood on the sidelines.

He would kill them.

As usual, the screen blackened, signaling the end of the scene.

Chapter Text

The atmosphere in the room became serious.

"Does anyone have an idea why those two have been watching her instead of helping her?" Asked Hera, with a hint of irritation. "And to reiterate Odin's question, what did that boy mean by his statement?"

Athena's eyes flicked over to Hera. "It's clear they have an agenda involving Percilla, but what it is remains uncertain. Their behavior suggests they see her as pivotal to something, but we lack the details."

"It is likely that they are demigods like Percy," said Apollo.

Zeus nodded in agreement, "That's a good observation, my son. It would make sense."

Hera scowled at the sight of her husband praising Leto's spawn.

Hades leaned forward, his expression serious. "I've heard of individuals that are believed to be part of significant events or prophecies. If these two see Percilla as central to such a destiny, their interest in her might be due to some anticipated role she is supposed to play."

Odin stroked his beard thoughtfully. "It would make sense if they were waiting for her arrival. They might see her as a key player in their scheme, whatever it may be."

Zeus's eyes narrowed. "And they did nothing to help her. They merely observed. This is troubling. If they have such a vested interest in her, their inaction could mean they're trying to manipulate the situation to their advantage."

As Poseidon silently listened to the conversation, there is one thing that bothers him:

She called that boy attractive.

A unknown feeling welled up in his chest.

The screen resumes playing with a new title:

I Play Pinochle With A Horse

"BWAHAHAHAHAHA! I just imagined it in my head," laughed Loki, slapping his knee.

Some of the other gods laughed as well, especially Buddha, Shiva, and Anubis.

Odin and Thor sighs tiredly.

I had weird dreams full of barnyard animals. Most of them wanted to kill me. The rest wanted food.

"That is quite strange," said Morpheus in concern.

I must've woken up several times, but what I heard and saw made no sense, so I just passed out again. I remember lying in a soft bed, being spoon-fed something that tasted like buttered popcorn, only it was pudding. The boy with curly blond hair hovered over me, smirking as he scraped drips off my chin with the spoon.

For some reason, Poseidon have the urge to rip that boy's lips from his face.

When he saw my eyes open, he asked, "What will happen at the summer solstice?"

"Summer solstice?" Questioned the gods.

"What is this about a summer solstice?" Asked Zeus, confused.

Hades and Poseidon shared a look, looking confused as well.

I managed to croak, "What?"

He looked around, as if afraid someone would overhear. "What's going on? What was stolen? We've only got a few weeks!"

"What the hell is that boy talking about?" Asked Mórrigan, the Celtic goddess of war and fate.

"It seems something was stolen, but he is acting like Percy would know," said Apollo, looking annoyed.

"I'm sorry," I mumbled, "I don't..."

Somebody knocked on the door, and the boy quickly filled my mouth with pudding.

The next time I woke up, the boy was gone.

A husky blond dude, like a surfer, stood in the corner of the bedroom keeping watch over me. He had blue eyes— at least a dozen of them—on his cheeks, his forehead, the backs of his hands.

Hera narrowed her eyes. That thing reminded her of something.

Zeus chuckled, " It seems that Percilla has a thing for blondes, judging by the way she described them."

"ZEUS!" Poseidon growled out.

Zeus raised his hands up in a surrendering motion, laughing nervously.

"I am just stating what I have observed! She called this guy husky and the boy from earlier attractive!"

A piece of the armrest was thrown towards the god of the sky's head, which he quickly avoided.

The deities noticed that Poseidon had not been his usual self more and more since watching the demigod's life.

He never learns, Hades, Hera, Hestia, and Adamas had the same thought toward Zeus.

When I finally came around for good, there was nothing weird about my surroundings, except that they were nicer than I was used to. I was sitting in a deck chair on a huge porch, gazing across a meadow at green hills in the distance. The breeze smelled like strawberries. There was a blanket over my legs, a pillow behind my neck. All that was great, but my mouth felt like a scorpion had been using it for a nest. My tongue was dry and nasty and every one of my teeth hurt.

On the table next to me was a tall drink. It looked like iced apple juice, with a green straw and a paper parasol stuck through a maraschino cherry.

My hand was so weak I almost dropped the glass once I got my fingers around it.

"Careful," a familiar voice said.

Grover was leaning against the porch railing, looking like he hadn't slept in a week. Under one arm, he cradled a shoe box. He was wearing blue jeans, Converse hi-tops and a bright orange T-shirt that said CAMP HALF-BLOOD. Just plain old Grover, Not the goat boy.

Seeing the shirt the Satyr was wearing, the gods figured the girl was at the summer camp now.

"Camp Half-Blood? What an interesting name for a summer camp," commented Zeus.

"I believe the shirt indicates the place is a camp for demigods," said Hades.

Hearing this, everyone in the council room became interested to see more demigods.

Poseidon, meanwhile, didn't care.

So maybe I'd had a nightmare. Maybe my mom was okay. We were still on vacation, and we'd stopped here at this big house for some reason. And ...

"Aww, the poor dear," said Leto sympathetically.

"You saved my life," Grover said. "I... well, the least I could do ... I went back to the hill. I thought you might want this."

Reverently, he placed the shoe box in my lap.

Inside was a black-and-white bull's horn, the base jagged from being broken off, the tip splattered with dried blood. It hadn't been a nightmare.

"Oh, it's the horn she broke off from the Minotaur's head!" Ares exclaimed in surprise.

"How nice of him to go back and get it for her," said Hestia kindly.

"He is still a stinking Satyr," sneered Apollo.

"The Minotaur," I said.

"Urn, Percy, it isn't a good idea—"

"That's what they call him in the Greek myths, isn't it?" I demanded. "The Minotaur. Half man, half bull."

"No longer a myth," Dionysus stated boredly.

Grover shifted uncomfortably. "You've been out for two days. How much do you remember?"

Göll gasped, "She's been out for two days!"

"My mom. Is she really ..."

He looked down.

Many gods felt pity for her.

But Poseidon is indifferent to the fate of her mother.

I stared across the meadow. There were groves of trees, a winding stream, acres of strawberries spread out under the blue sky. The valley was surrounded by rolling hills, and the tallest one, directly in front of us, was the one with the huge pine tree on top. Even that looked beautiful in the sunlight.

My mother was gone. The whole world should be black and cold. Nothing should look beautiful.

The atmosphere in the room became somber.

"What is happening to her?" Zeus asked, a note of concern in his voice.

Hades looked away, clearly troubled. "It seems that she is in a state of denial or shock. The contrast between the serene environment and her inner turmoil is striking."

Poseidon remained silent, his gazed fixed on the screen, but his thoughts were turbulent. He struggled with a mixture of emotions—anger, confusion, and a lingering sense of unease about the girl's situation.

"I'm sorry," Grover sniffled. "I'm a failure. I'm—I'm the worst satyr in the world."

"That we can agree on," said Loki in a mocking tone. "But cheer up Grover, at least you're not boring."

He moaned, stomping his foot so hard it came off. I mean, the Converse hi-top came off. The inside was filled with Styrofoam, except for a hoof-shaped hole.

"Oh, Styx!" he mumbled.

Thunder rolled across the clear sky.

Then the Greek deities got into an uproar.

"Are my ears deceiving me?! Did I hear what I think he just said?!" Shouted Zeus, getting up from his seat.

"Stupid Satyr! Don't say that in front of her!" Cried out Apollo.

"It's a good thing it's not the whole oath, but he shouldn't be so careless around the girl, or else she learns to say it too!" Yelled Hera angrily.

Hades's expression is set in a grimace. "That Satyr needs to be more cautious. If she says the full oath, it could be disastrous."

Poseidon looked ready to kill.

The Satyr must die!

"Um...what are you guys talking about?" Asked Anubis in confusion, causing gasps around the room.

"What?"

He was then smacked on the back of his head by Ra-Horakhty.

"Idiot! Can't you tell this could be a sensitive topic?!" He scolded. "You should've learned about the other pantheons instead of asking!"

Other deities like Odin, Thor, Susano'o, Brunhilde, and Beelzebub knows what the Greeks are talking about.

Anubis rubbed the back of his head, "Geez, it is just a simple question."

Hephaestus, the Greek god of blacksmithing who had been quiet, finally spoke up. "Anubis, you're not entirely out of line with your question. The 'Styx' is part of a powerful oath sworn by the gods of our pantheon. Using even a part of it can have severe consequences."

He continued, his voice firm, "The oath is bound to the ancient magic of the River Styx. It's a promise made by gods or demigods, and uttering parts of it can invoke its power. If Percilla learns it, it could bring about unforeseen problems."

Hades's eyes flashed with intensity. "Exactly. We've seen before how dangerous it can be when such oaths are invoked recklessly."

Anubis nodded slowly in understanding "Okay, I get it now. Thanks for explaining."

As he struggled to get his hoof back in the fake foot, I thought, Well, that settles it.

Grover was a satyr. I was ready to bet that if I shaved his curly brown hair, I'd find tiny horns on his head. But I was too miserable to care that satyrs existed, or even minotaurs. All that meant was my mom really had been squeezed into nothingness, dissolved into yellow light.

I was alone. An orphan. I would have to live with ... Smelly Gabe? No. That would never happen. I would live on the streets first. I would pretend I was seventeen and join the army. I'd do something.

"She should never have to live with that wretched mortal!" Poseidon unexpectedly thundered, shocking everyone in the council room.

Grover was still sniffling. The poor kid—poor goat, satyr, whatever—looked as if he expected to be hit.

"I wish she hit him," mumbled Loki.

I said, "It wasn't your fault."

"What is she talking about? It is his fault for being useless!" Shouted Huginn, which the gods agreed.

"Yes, it was. I was supposed to protect you."

"He did a terrible job at that," sneered Artemis.

"Did my mother ask you to protect me?"

"No. But that's my job. I'm a keeper. At least... I was."

"A keeper?" Questioned Susano'o.

"But why ..." I suddenly felt dizzy, my vision swimming.

"She needs to rest more," said Apollo worriedly.

"Don't strain yourself," Grover said. "Here." He helped me hold my glass and put the straw to my lips.

I recoiled at the taste, because I was expecting apple juice. It wasn't that at all. It was chocolate-chip cookies. Liquid cookies. And not just any cookies—my mom's homemade blue chocolate-chip cookies, buttery and hot, with the chips still melting. Drinking it, my whole body felt warm and good, full of energy. My grief didn't go away, but I felt as if my mom had just brushed her hand against my cheek, given me a cookie the way she used to when I was small, and told me everything was going to be okay.

"What in the world is she drinking?" Asked Demeter, Greek goddess of agriculture and Persephone's mother.

"Liquid cookies? Is that even possible? Maybe I should make one myself," said Heset, Egyptian goddess of food and drink in curiosity.

Is it possible she is drinking nectar? Thought Hades.

Before I knew it, I'd drained the glass. I stared into it, sure I'd just had a warm drink, but the ice cubes hadn't even melted.

"Was it good?" Grover asked.

I nodded.

"What did it taste like?" He sounded so wistful, I felt guilty.

"Sorry," I said. "I should've let you taste."

"She better not share her saliva with him," said Aphrodite in a disapproving tone.

Poseidon gritted his teeth. His d- The girl shouldn't share anything with the damn Satyr.

His eyes got wide. "No! That's not what I meant. I just... wondered."

"Chocolate-chip cookies," I said. "My mom's. Homemade."

He sighed. "And how do you feel?"

"Like I could throw Nancy Bobofit a hundred yards."

"That's good," he said. "That's good. I don't think you could risk drinking any more of that stuff."

"What do you mean?"

"Risk? Is that drink dangerous?" Questioned Hades worriedly.

The god of the sea narrowed his eyes towards the Satyr on the screen.

Is that imbecile trying to poison her!

He took the empty glass from me gingerly, as if it were dynamite, and set it back on the table. "Come on. Chiron and Mr. D are waiting."

"We will finally get to see who Chiron is!" Zeus exclaimed excitedly.

"I hope he treats her better than Mr. Brunner," said Ares.

"But who the hell is Mr. D?" Asked Dionysus curiously.

The porch wrapped all the way around the farmhouse.

My legs felt wobbly, trying to walk that far. Grover offered to carry the Minotaur horn, but I held on to it. I'd paid for that souvenir the hard way. I wasn't going to let it go.

"That is good parallelism," commented Hermes.

"Agreed," nodded Athena.

As we came around the opposite end of the house, I caught my breath.

We must've been on the north shore of Long Island, because on this side of the house, the valley marched all the way up to the water, which glittered about a mile in the distance. Between here and there, I simply couldn't process everything I was seeing. The landscape was dotted with buildings that looked like ancient Greek architecture—an open-air pavilion, an amphitheater, a circular arena—except that they all looked brand new, their white marble columns sparkling in the sun. In a nearby sandpit, a dozen high school-age kids and satyrs played volleyball. Canoes glided across a small lake. Kids in bright orange T-shirts like Grover's were chasing each other around a cluster of cabins nestled in the woods. Some shot targets at an archery range. Others rode horses down a wooded trail, and, unless I was hallucinating, some of their horses had wings.

"Ah, so this is the famous camp," said Zeus with a bemused smile. "A camp where demigods and magical creatures coexist. Quite a spectacle. The architecture, though reminiscent of our ancient structures, has a distinctly modern twist to it. And look at those children—so full of energy and life. It's fascinating how they've managed to blend our world with their own in such a picturesque way."

Down at the end of the porch, two men sat across from each other at a card table. The blond-haired boy who'd spoon-fed me popcorn-flavored pudding was leaning on the porch rail next to them.

The man facing me was small, but porky. He had a red nose, big watery eyes, and curly hair so black it was almost purple. He looked like those paintings of baby angels— what do you call them, hubbubs? No, cherubs. That's it. He looked like a cherub who'd turned middle-aged in a trailer park. He wore a tiger-pattern Hawaiian shirt, and he would've fit right in at one of Gabe's poker parties, except I got the feeling this guy could've out-gambled even my stepfather.

The deities laughed.

Aphrodite cringed at the sight of the man.

Dionysus guffawed, "her thoughts are quite amusing! I am going to guess that is the Chiron guy?"

"That's Mr. D," Grover murmured to me. "He's the camp director. Be polite. The boy, that's Anthony Chase. He's just a camper, but he's been here longer than just about anybody. And you already know Chiron... ."

He pointed at the guy whose back was to me.

First, I realized he was sitting in the wheelchair. Then I recognized the tweed jacket, the thinning brown hair, the scraggly beard.

"Mr. Brunner!" I cried.

"Mr. Brunner?!" Shouted the gods in surprise.

"He's Chiron?!" Exclaimed Hera.

The Latin teacher turned and smiled at me. His eyes had that mischievous glint they sometimes got in class when he pulled a pop quiz and made all the multiple choice answers B.

"Ah, good, Percy," he said. "Now we have four for pinochle."

He offered me a chair to the right of Mr. D, who looked at me with bloodshot eyes and heaved a great sigh. "Oh, I suppose I must say it. Welcome to Camp Half-Blood. There. Now, don't expect me to be glad to see you."

The gods exchanged incredulous glances at Mr. D's greeting.

Zeus's brow furrowed. "Is this how the camp director greets new arrivals? That is rather unceremonious."

Hera's lips curled in disapproval. "The way he spoke, it's as if he's begrudgingly performing a duty. How could anyone respect a leader who shows such disdain?"

Hades frowned. "His manner is troubling. If he's a leader of this camp, his attitude could affect the morale of the campers."

Poseidon's eyes darkened as he clenched his jaw. "His dismissive tone is infuriating. The girl deserves better than that." He stated, to the surprise of everyone else.

Hestia looked pained. "The lack of warmth or genuine concern is disheartening. She needs kindness and support, not a cold reception."

"Uh, thanks." I scooted a little farther away from him because, if there was one thing I had learned from living with Gabe, it was how to tell when an adult has been hitting the happy juice. If Mr. D was a stranger to alcohol, I was a satyr.

Buddha and Shiva snorted in amusement, while Loki and Anubis bursted out laughing.

"Anthony?" Mr. Brunner called to the blond boy.

He came forward and Mr. Brunner introduced us. "This young man nursed you back to health, Percy. Anthony, my boy, why don't you go check on Percy's bunk? We'll be putting her in cabin eleven for now."

Anthony said, "Sure, Chiron."

He was probably my age, maybe a couple of inches taller, and a whole lot more athletic looking. With his deep tan and his curly blond hair, he was almost exactly what I thought a stereotypical California boy would look like, except his eyes ruined the image. They were startling gray, like storm clouds; pretty, but intimidating, too, as if he were analyzing the best way to take me down in a fight.

He glanced at the minotaur horn in my hands, then back at me. I imagined he was going to say, You killed a minotaur! or Wow, you're so awesome! or something like that.

Instead he said, "You drool when you sleep."

"That boy dares to watch her sleep!" Poseidon roared angrily, startling the gods.

Göll screamed and jumped in the air in a panic. Brunhilde, meanwhile, observed the sea tyrant's change of expressions throughout the reaction. Beelzebub and Adamas doing the same.

Zeus and Hades exchanged glances.

At this point, it's obvious that their brother feels something for the demigod he denied as his daughter.

Then he sprinted off down the lawn.

"So," I said, anxious to change the subject. "You, uh, work here, Mr. Brunner?".

"Not Mr. Brunner," the ex—Mr. Brunner said. "I'm afraid that was a pseudonym. You may call me Chiron."

"Okay." Totally confused, I looked at the director. "And Mr. D ... does that stand for something?"

Mr. D stopped shuffling the cards. He looked at me like I'd just belched loudly. "Young man, names are powerful things. You don't just go around using them for no reason."

"That name thing again," said Shiva.

"Oh. Right. Sorry."

"I must say, Percy," Chiron-Brunner broke in, "I'm glad to see you alive. It's been a long time since I've made a house call to a potential camper. I'd hate to think I've wasted my time."

"House call?"

"My year at Yancy Academy, to instruct you. We have satyrs at most schools, of course, keeping a lookout. But Grover alerted me as soon as he met you. He sensed you were something special, so I decided to come upstate. I convinced the other Latin teacher to ... ah, take a leave of absence."

"No wonder he was acting strange. He was keeping an eye on her along with the Satyr," stated Athena.

"I bet the other Satyrs are watching the other demigod children," said Artemis with a frown.

I tried to remember the beginning of the school year. It seemed like so long ago, but I did have a fuzzy memory of there being another Latin teacher my first week at Yancy. Then, without explanation, he had disappeared and Mr. Brunner had taken the class.

"You came to Yancy just to teach me?" I asked.

Chiron nodded. "Honestly, I wasn't sure about you at first. We contacted your mother, let her know we were keeping an eye on you in case you were ready for Camp Half-Blood. But you still had so much to learn. Nevertheless, you made it here alive, and that's always the first test."

As the screen flickered with the latest scene, the gods watched with mixed emotions. The reactions ranged from intrigue to concern.

Hera's eyes narrowed. "Chiron's role is becoming clearer. He was undercover as Mr. Brunner to protect and monitor Percilla, which explains his peculiar behavior."

Zeus's expression shifted from curiosity to irritation. "It's clear there's more at play here than we initially understood. Chiron's actions were meant to prepare her for something, but why keep it so secretive?"

Hades's gaze was fixed on the screen, his thoughts weighed down by the revelation. "It appears Percilla's journey is far from over. Her survival thus far was just the beginning of a much larger and more complex fate."

Poseidon remained stoic, but his eyes seems to betray a storm of emotions.

"Grover," Mr. D said impatiently, "are you playing or not?"

"Yes, sir!" Grover trembled as he took the fourth chair, though I didn't know why he should be so afraid of a pudgy little man in a tiger-print Hawaiian shirt.

Loki giggled.

"You do know how to play pinochle?" Mr. D eyed me suspiciously.

"I'm afraid not," I said.

"I'm afraid not, sir," he said.

"Sir," I repeated. I was liking the camp director less and less.

"Well," he told me, "it is, along with gladiator fighting and Pac-Man, one of the greatest games ever invented by humans. I would expect all civilized young men to know the rules."

"Ugh, he is praising humans," a random god muttered in distaste.

"But Pac-Man is fun though," said another.

"I'm sure the girl can learn," Chiron said.

"Please," I said, "what is this place? What am I doing here? Mr. Brun—Chiron—why would you go to Yancy Academy just to teach me?"

Mr. D snorted. "I asked the same question."

The camp director dealt the cards. Grover flinched every time one landed in his pile.

"The Satyr is a coward. I don't see anything scary about that man," scoffed Loki.

Chiron smiled at me sympathetically, the way he used to in Latin class, as if to let me know that no matter what my average was, I was his star student. He expected me to have the right answer.

"Percy," he said. "Did your mother tell you nothing?'

"She said ..." I remembered her sad eyes, looking out over the sea. "She told me she was afraid to send me here, even though my father had wanted her to. She said that once I was here, I probably couldn't leave. She wanted to keep me close to her."

Hera, Leto, and other goddesses gave looks of understanding.

Poseidon scoffed, believing her mother was being selfish by keeping her close. A human cannot protect a demigod.

"Typical," Mr. D said. "That's how they usually get killed. Young lady, are you bidding or not?"

"What?" I asked.

He explained, impatiently, how you bid in pinochle, and so I did.

"I'm afraid there's too much to tell," Chiron said. "I'm afraid our usual orientation film won't be sufficient."

"Orientation film?" I asked.

"No," Chiron decided. "Well, Percy. You know your friend Grover is a satyr. You know"—he pointed to the horn in the shoe box—"that you have killed the Minotaur. No small feat, either, lass. What you may not know is that great powers are at work in your life. Gods—the forces you call the Greek gods—are very much alive."

"Shocker," Buddha said sarcastically.

I stared at the others around the table.

I waited for somebody to yell, Not! But all I got was Mr. D yelling, "Oh, a royal marriage. Trick! Trick!" He cackled as he tallied up his points.

"Mr. D," Grover asked timidly, "if you're not going to eat it, could I have your Diet Coke can?"

"Eh? Oh, all right."

Grover bit a huge shard out of the empty aluminum can and chewed it mournfully.

Zeus look surprised, "Weird. Didn't expect the satyrs in that universe can eat metal."

"Wait," I told Chiron. "You're telling me there's such a thing as God."

"Well, now," Chiron said. "God—capital G, God. That's a different matter altogether. We shan't deal with the metaphysical."

Some deities look intrigued or amused.

"Didn't God have a son named Jesus that is against the annihilation of humanity in our universe?" Asked Morrígan.

Her fellow pantheon member Cú Chulainn, a Celtic demigod, nodded.

"That's correct, Morrígan. Jesus is indeed the son of God who is seen as a savior to the humans. I have heard many tales of him preaching love, compassion, and the preservation of humanity. His teachings stand in stark contrast to notions of destruction and annihilation we gods sometimes espouse."

"Metaphysical? But you were just talking about—"

"Ah, gods, plural, as in, great beings that control the forces of nature and human endeavors: the immortal gods of Olympus. That's a smaller matter."

"Smaller?"

The Greeks gods look offended.

"Yes, quite. The gods we discussed in Latin class."

"Zeus," I said. "Hera. Apollo. You mean them."

Said gods perked up upon hearing their names.

And there it was again—distant thunder on a cloudless day.

"I am really betting that is my counterpart's doing," scowled Zeus. "He must really be angry about something."

"Young lady," said Mr. D, "I would really be less casual about throwing those names around, if I were you."

"But they're stories," I said. "They're—myths, to explain lightning and the seasons and stuff. They're what people believed before there was science."

"Science!" Mr. D scoffed. "And tell me, Percilla Jackson"—I flinched when he said my real name, which I never told anybody—"what will people think of your 'science' two thousand years from now?" Mr. D continued. "Hmm? They will call it primitive mumbo jumbo. That's what. Oh, I love mortals—they have absolutely no sense of perspective. They think they've come so-o-o far. And have they, Chiron? Look at this girl and tell me."

The gods mumbled their agreement with Mr. D. Mortals are eons behind the gods when it comes to scientific discoveries.

I wasn't liking Mr. D much, but there was something about the way he called me mortal, as if... he wasn't. It was enough to put a lump in my throat, to suggest why Grover was dutifully minding his cards, chewing his soda can, and keeping his mouth shut.

"She is quite perceptive," commented Susano'o.

"Percy," Chiron said, "you may choose to believe or not, but the fact is that immortal means immortal. Can you imagine that for a moment, never dying? Never fading? Existing, just as you are, for all time?"

I was about to answer, off the top of my head, that it sounded like a pretty good deal, but the tone of Chiron's voice made me hesitate.

"You mean, whether people believed in you or not," I said.

"WHAT?!!!" Exclaimed everyone in the room.

"No way do the gods over there depend on humans believing in them to stay alive!" Zeus said in shock.

"If that is true, then the gods over there are weaker than us!" Poseidon growled.

How pathetic!

"Exactly," Chiron agreed. "If you were a god, how would you like being called a myth, an old story to explain lightning? What if I told you, Percilla Jackson, that someday people would call you a myth, just created to explain how little girls can get over losing their mothers?"

The gods frowned in disapproval at how coldly this Mr.D spoke to her and mentioning her mother.

My heart pounded. He was trying to make me angry for some reason, but I wasn't going to let him. I said, "I wouldn't like it. But I don't believe in gods."

"Oh, you'd better," Mr. D murmured. "Before one of them incinerates you."

I'll destroy them before they try, Poseidon thought immediately, without thinking.

Grover said, "P-please, sir. She's just lost her mother. She's in shock."

"A lucky thing, too," Mr. D grumbled, playing a card. "Bad enough I'm confined to this miserable job, working with girls who don't even believe.'"

He waved his hand and a goblet appeared on the table, as if the sunlight had bent, momentarily, and woven the air into glass. The goblet filled itself with red wine.

Seeing what the pudgy man just did, the gods widened his eyes.

Especially, Dionysus.

"Could that man be...." Hades trailed off.

"No, no, no! I refuse to believe it! That fat man cannot be—!" Dionysus shook his head in denial.

My jaw dropped, but Chiron hardly looked up.

"Mr. D," he warned, "your restrictions."

Mr. D looked at the wine and feigned surprise.

"Dear me." He looked at the sky and yelled, "Old habits! Sorry!"

More thunder.

Mr. D waved his hand again, and the wineglass changed into a fresh can of Diet Coke. He sighed unhappily, popped the top of the soda, and went back to his card game.

Chiron winked at me. "Mr. D offended his father a while back, took a fancy to a wood nymph who had been declared off-limits."

"A wood nymph," I repeated, still staring at the Diet Coke can like it was from outer space.

"Yes," Mr. D confessed. "Father loves to punish me. The first time, Prohibition. Ghastly! Absolutely horrid ten years! The second time—well, she really was pretty, and I couldn't stay away—the second time, he sent me here. Half-Blood Hill. Summer camp for brats like you. 'Be a better influence,' he told me. 'Work with youths rather than tearing them down.' Ha.' Absolutely unfair."

Mr. D sounded about six years old, like a pouting little kid.

"And ..." I stammered, "your father is ..."

All the gods leaned forward in anticipation.

"Di immortales, Chiron," Mr. D said. "I thought you taught this girl the basics. My father is Zeus, of course."

"So what does the D stand for?" Asked Hephaestus, though he already had an idea.

Dionysus gripped his arm forcefully, sweat dripping from his temples.

I ran through D names from Greek mythology. Wine. The skin of a tiger. The satyrs that all seemed to work here. The way Grover cringed, as if Mr. D were his master.

"You're Dionysus," I said. "The god of wine."

Dionysus screamed.

"NOOOOO!"

Then fainted next to a startled Hephaestus.

"I can't believe that is Dionysus's alternate self," said Zeus in disbelief.

"He looks so hideous," stated the shallow Aphrodite.

"Now I wonder if our alternate selves look similar to him," said Hades, frowning in irritation.

"I don't even want to know," shivered Artemis.

"My counterpart better be handsome! But not more handsome than me!" Shouted Apollo, pointing at the screen angrily.

Mr. D rolled his eyes. "What do they say, these days, Grover? Do the children say, 'Well, duh!'?"

"Y-yes, Mr. D."

"Then, well, duh! Percilla Jackson. Did you think I was Aphrodite, perhaps?

"Ewww no!" Shouted Aphrodite in disgust.

"You're a god."

"Yes, child."

"A god. You."

Buddha, Shiva, and Beelzebub smirked in amusement.

Loki and Anubis broke into laughter as usual.

After Hephaestus shook him, Dionysus woke up and returned to watching the screen.

He turned to look at me straight on, and I saw a kind of purplish fire in his eyes, a hint that this whiny, plump little man was only showing me the tiniest bit of his true nature. I saw visions of grape vines choking unbelievers to death, drunken warriors insane with battle lust, sailors screaming as their hands turned to flippers, their faces elongating into dolphin snouts. I knew that if I pushed him, Mr. D would show me worse things. He would plant a disease in my brain that would leave me wearing a strait-jacket in a rubber room for the rest of my life.

"You know what, that maybe make up for my counterpart's appearance," said Dionysus.

"You want him to scare her?" Poseidon asked him coldly.

Dionysus sweated bullets. "Um...no," he said in a mix of fear and nervousness.

"Would you like to test me, child?" he said quietly.

"No. No, sir."

The fire died a little. He turned back to his card game. "I believe I win."

"Not quite, Mr. D," Chiron said. He set down a straight, tallied the points, and said, "The game goes to me."

I thought Mr. D was going to vaporize Chiron right out of his wheelchair, but he just sighed through his nose, as if he were used to being beaten by the Latin teacher. He got up, and Grover rose, too.

"I'm tired," Mr. D said. "I believe I'll take a nap before the sing-along tonight. But first, Grover, we need to talk, again, about your less-than-perfect performance on this assignment."

Grover's face beaded with sweat. "Y-yes, sir."

Mr. D turned to me. "Cabin eleven, Percilla Jackson. And mind your manners."

He swept into the farmhouse, Grover following miserably.

"Will Grover be okay?" I asked Chiron.

Loki scowled at her concern for the satyr.

Chiron nodded, though he looked a bit troubled. "Old Dionysus isn't really mad. He just hates his job. He's been ... ah, grounded, I guess you would say, and he can't stand waiting another century before he's allowed to go back to Olympus."

"Pathetic," sneered Poseidon.

"Mount Olympus," I said. "You're telling me there really is a palace there?"

"Well now, there's Mount Olympus in Greece. And then there's the home of the gods, the convergence point of their powers, which did indeed used to be on Mount Olympus. It's still called Mount Olympus, out of respect to the old ways, but the palace moves, Percy, just as the gods do."

"Is he talking about that universe's Mount Olympus....moving?" Asked Odin in bewilderment.

"So it doesn't stay in one spot over there," Athena stated, but also looking confused.

"You mean the Greek gods are here? Like ... in America?"

"Well, certainly. The gods move with the heart of the West."

"Heart of the West?" Echoed the deities questionably.

"The what?"

"Come now, Percy. What you call 'Western civilization.' Do you think it's just an abstract concept? No, it's a living force. A collective consciousness that has burned bright for thousands of years. The gods are part of it. You might even say they are the source of it, or at least, they are tied so tightly to it that they couldn't possibly fade, not unless all of Western civilization were obliterated. The fire started in Greece. Then, as you well know—or as I hope you know, since you passed my course—the heart of the fire moved to Rome, and so did the gods. Oh, different names, perhaps—Jupiter for Zeus, Venus for Aphrodite, and so on—but the same forces, the same gods."

"Hmm, it is interesting to know that our counterpart comes by different names when their palace moved to Rome," said Hades

"It's a relief the Roman gods are not separate entities then," said Ares with a sigh.

"And then they died."

"Died? No. Did the West die? The gods simply moved, to Germany, to France, to Spain, for a while. Wherever the flame was brightest, the gods were there. They spent several centuries in England. All you need to do is look at the architecture. People do not forget the gods. Every place they've ruled, for the last three thousand years, you can see them in paintings, in statues, on the most important buildings. And yes, Percy, of course they are now in your United States. Look at your symbol, the eagle of Zeus. Look at the statue of Prometheus in RockefellerCenter, the Greek facades of your government buildings in Washington. I defy you to find any American city where the Olympians are not prominently displayed in multiple places. Like it or not—and believe me, plenty of people weren't very fond of Rome, either—America is now the heart of the flame. It is the great power of the West. And so Olympus is here. And we are here."

It was all too much, especially the fact that I seemed to be included in Chiron's we, as if I were part of some club.

"Who are you, Chiron? Who ... who am I?"

"You are Percilla Jackson, the strongest demigod in your universe," said a familiar ancient voice, booming the entire room.

"LORD CHAOS!!!" The gods shouted.

"Lord Chaos, have you returned?" Asked Zeus in surprise, but the primordial didn't respond.

Chiron smiled. He shifted his weight as if he were going to get up out of his wheelchair, but I knew that was impossible. He was paralyzed from the waist down.

"Who are you?" he mused. "Well, that's the question we all want answered, isn't it? But for now, we should get you a bunk in cabin eleven. There will be new friends to meet. And plenty of time for lessons tomorrow. Besides, there will be s'mores at the campfire tonight, and I simply adore chocolate."

And then he did rise from his wheelchair. But there was something odd about the way he did it. His blanket fell away from his legs, but the legs didn't move. His waist kept getting longer, rising above his belt. At first, I thought he was wearing very long, white velvet underwear, but as he kept rising out of the chair, taller than any man, I realized that the velvet underwear wasn't underwear; it was the front of an animal, muscle and sinew under coarse white fur. And the wheelchair wasn't a chair. It was some kind of container, an enormous box on wheels, and it must've been magic, because there's no way it could've held all of him. A leg came out, long and knobby-kneed, with a huge polished hoof. Then another front leg, then hindquarters, and then the box was empty, nothing but a metal shell with a couple of fake human legs attached..

I stared at the horse who had just sprung from the wheelchair: a huge white stallion. But where its neck should be was the upper body of my Latin teacher, smoothly grafted to the horse's trunk.

"What a relief," the centaur said. "I'd been cooped up in there so long, my fetlocks had fallen asleep. Now, come, Percy Jackson. Let's meet the other campers."

Silence.

"Yoooo, that Chiron dude is half horse!" Said Indra, the Hindu god of lightning.

"He's a centaur!" Exclaimed the Greeks in shock.

Then the screen blackens.

Chapter Text

"Seriously? That man is a centaur? They're as horrible as the satyrs!" Zeus exploded.

"Not only does the poor girl have to be near the satyr, but now there's another disdainful creature too!" Hera added.

Poseidon broke a piece of his armrest in anger. Abominable creatures! They shall be eradicated! he thought. They shouldn't be near my Percilla.

Then he widened his eyes in shock at the last part of his thoughts.

"Both creatures are disgusting and awful due to their depravity! Why didn't we annihilate them eons ago?" Athena asked.

Hermes sweated. "Um... the satyrs are my sons..."

Loki side-eyed him across the room. "You must be a terrible father then, to raise such disreputable beings," he finished with a smirk.

Hermes glared at him heatedly.

"You need to straighten out your sons, Hermes," Zeus ordered, and Hermes quickly nodded.

"Then what about the centaurs, Father?" Apollo asked.

"We'll deal with them after the viewing of Percilla's life is over. Are we all in agreement?"

All the Greek deities nodded.

A new title on the screen appears:

I Became Supreme Lord Of The Bathroom

"I have a feeling Percilla's water abilities will be involved in this new scene," said Hades.

Every deity straightened themselves, prepared to see more of the girl's divine powers.

Once I got over the fact that my Latin teacher was a horse, we had a nice tour, though I was careful not to walk behind him. I'd done pooper-scooper patrol in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade a few times, and, I'm sorry, I did not trust Chiron's back end the way I trusted his front.

"That's rather amusing," Apollo commented, "though it's clear Percy's discomfort is genuine."

We passed the volleyball pit. Several of the campers nudged each other. One pointed to the minotaur horn I was carrying. Another said, "That's her."

"Looks like she's already the talk of the camp," Hermes noted. "Though it's understandable, given her recent arrival."

Most of the campers were older than me. Their satyr friends were bigger than Grover, all of them trotting around in orange CAMPHALF-BLOOD T-shirts, with nothing else to cover their bare shaggy hindquarters. I wasn't normally shy, but the way they stared at me made me uncomfortable. I felt like they were expecting me to do a flip or something.

Poor girl," Hestia said with a hint of sympathy. "It's quite a lot to take in all at once."

I looked back at the farmhouse. It was a lot bigger than I'd realized—four stories tall, sky blue with white trim, like an upscale seaside resort. I was checking out the brass eagle weather vane on top when something caught my eye, a shadow in the uppermost window of the attic gable. Something had moved the curtain, just for a second, and I got the distinct impression I was being watched.

"I've got a bad feeling about that attic," Dionysus murmured. "There's definitely something not right about it."

"What's up there?" I asked Chiron.

He looked where I was pointing, and his smile faded. "Just the attic."

"Somebody lives there?"

"No," he said with finality. "Not a single living thing."

"He is actually telling the truth," Apollo remarked.

"But it is obvious there is someone in the attic," said Ares.

I got the feeling he was being truthful. But I was also sure something had moved that curtain.

"Come along, Percy," Chiron said, his lighthearted tone now a little forced. "Lots to see."

Buddha narrowed his eyes, " I am getting fed up with his act around her. He is still being evasive since the beginning."

Hera nodded, her expression stern. "It's clear he's hiding something. We must keep a close watch on his actions."

The other deities murmured in agreement, their focus sharpening on Chiron and the mysterious attic.

We walked through the strawberry fields, where campers were picking bushels of berries while a satyr played a tune on a reed pipe.

Chiron told me the camp grew a nice crop for export to New York restaurants and Mount Olympus. "It pays our expenses," he explained. "And the strawberries take almost no effort."

He said Mr. D had this effect on fruit-bearing plants: they just went crazy when he was around. It worked best with wine grapes, but Mr. D was restricted from growing those, so they grew strawberries instead.

Dionysus sighed, now more accepting of the fact that Mr. D is his counterpart in the universe shown before him. There was a mix of amusement and exasperation in his eyes. "Of course, everything goes wild with my counterpart around. He's a force of nature, whether he likes it or not," he said, referring to himself as well.

I watched the satyr playing his pipe. His music was causing lines of bugs to leave the strawberry patch in every direction, like refugees fleeing a fire. I wondered if Grover could work that kind of magic with music. I wondered if he was still inside the farmhouse, getting chewed out by Mr. D.

Loki scowled, "She is thinking about the satyr way too much," he said, his tone indicating a hint of irritation and....envy? "She should focus on other things."

Odin and Thor gave him strange glances.

"Grover won't get in too much trouble, will he?" I asked Chiron. "I mean ... he was a good protector. Really."

Poseidon scowled. He looked displeased at her defending the satyr.

"Uh huh. You tell yourself that," commented Isis the Egyptian goddess of funerary rites towards the girl on the screen. "The satyr did nothing."

Chiron sighed. He shed his tweed jacket and draped it over his horses back like a saddle. "Grover has big dreams, Percy. Perhaps bigger than are reasonable. To reach his goal, he must first demonstrate great courage by succeeding as a keeper, finding a new camper and bringing him safely to Half-Blood Hill."

"But he did that!"

"What is a keeper? Was that explained previously?" Hercules finally spoke up after keeping himself silent for a while.

Hades raised an eyebrow. "It was mentioned very briefly before, but the details were not made clear. My guess is that a keeper are satyrs that are responsible for guiding and protecting demigods and plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and integration of newcomers towards the camp."

"Sounds like they are better than the satyrs we have," commented Demeter.

"I might agree with you," Chiron said. "But it is not my place to judge. Dionysus and the Council of Cloven Elders must decide. I'm afraid they might not see this assignment as a success. After all, Grover lost you in New York. Then there's the unfortunate ... ah ... fate of your mother. And the fact that Grover was unconscious when you dragged him over the property line. The council might question whether this shows any courage on Grover's part."

"Obviously a big f*cking NO," sneered Shiva. "What courage is there to question?" His wives and son Ganesha nodded in agreement.

I wanted to protest. None of what happened was Grover's fault. I also felt really, really guilty. If I hadn't given Grover the slip at the bus station, he might not have gotten in trouble.

"She shouldn't feel guilty for him at all," Susano'o interjected. "Sometimes, the circumstances are beyond anyone's control. The Satyr didn't try to protect her at all. Grover's actions are not a reflection of Percy's choices or reflections."

"Indeed," Odin agreed. " It's clear that Grover's missteps were not within her control. The girl shouldn't blame herself for the situation's outcome."

"He'll get a second chance, won't he?"

Chiron winced. "I'm afraid that was Grover's second chance, Percy. The council was not anxious to give him another, either, after what happened the first time, five years ago. Olympus knows, I advised him to wait longer before trying again. He's still so small for his age... ."

"How old is he?"

"Oh, twenty-eight."

"What! And he's in sixth grade?"

"Satyrs mature half as fast as humans, Percy. Grover has been the equivalent of a middle school student for the past six years."

"Not much different from the maturity of my sons," mumbled Hermes.

"That's horrible."

"Quite," Chiron agreed. "At any rate, Grover is a late bloomer, even by satyr standards, and not yet very accomplished at woodland magic. Alas, he was anxious to pursue his dream. Perhaps now he will find some other career... ."

"I have a suggestion for Grover's career," began Loki mockingly, "he should be a professional disappointment. He seems to have a knack for it."

His fellow gods snickered.

"That's not fair," I said. "What happened the first time? Was it really so bad?"

Chiron looked away quickly. "Let's move along, shall we?"

Apollo scowled in irritation. "He is dodging her question."

"Whatever happened 5 years ago must be serious if the centaur is avoiding it," said Beelzebub. He has been keeping himself silent, writing down on a notebook. "But the girl deserves to know."

But I wasn't quite ready to let the subject drop. Something had occurred to me when Chiron talked about my mother's fate, as if he were intentionally avoiding the word death. The beginnings of an idea—a tiny, hopeful fire—started forming in my mind.

"I believe her mother is not dead," said Hades. "I know for sure that humans do not die just by vanishing into light. Her disappearance is the interference of the divine."

"Please let her mother still be alive," prayed Hestia and Leto.

Poseidon scowled at the idea of that woman not being dead.

"Chiron," I said. "If the gods and Olympus and all that are real ..."

"Yes, child?"

"Does that mean the Underworld is real, too?"

Hades perked up in interest at the mention of the Underworld.

Chiron's expression darkened.

"Yes, child." He paused, as if choosing his words carefully. "There is a place where spirits go after death. But for now ... until we know more ... I would urge you to put that out of your mind."

"What do you mean, 'until we know more'?"

Hades and the other god sighs in disappointment at not getting to know more.

At this point, it's getting really annoying how much the girl's questions are left unanswered.

"Come, Percy. Let's see the woods.". . ..

As we got closer, I realized how huge the forest was. It took up at least a quarter of the valley, with trees so tall and thick, you could imagine nobody had been in there since the Native Americans.

"How wonderful," said Atira, the Native American Pawnee earth goddess.

Chiron said, "The woods are stocked, if you care to try your luck, but go armed."

"Stocked with what?" I asked. "Armed with what?"

"A summer camp has an armory?" Asked Thor with a raised brow.

"You'll see. Capture the flag is Friday night. Do you have your own sword and shield?"

"My own—?"

"No," Chiron said. "I don't suppose you do. I think a size five will do. I'll visit the armory later."

I wanted to ask what kind of summer camp had an armory, but there was too much else to think about, so the tour continued. We saw the archery range, the canoeing lake, the stables (which Chiron didn't seem to like very much), the javelin range, the sing-along amphitheater, and the arena where Chiron said they held sword and spear fights.

"This camp is like a battle arena and training ground all in one," Ares remarked with a hint of approval.

"Indeed," Athena agreed. "A well-rounded training regimen is crucial for preparing demigods. I can see the value in these activities."

Hestia's expression softened. "It seems like the camp is well-equipped to handle its duties, even if it's unconventional."

Demeter raised an eyebrow. "I suppose it's fitting for demigods to be prepared for all kinds of challenges."

Zeus looked excited. "Oooh. I hope to see some bloodshed in the camp!"

"Sword and spear fights?" I asked.

"Cabin challenges and all that," he explained. "Not lethal. Usually. Oh, yes, and there's the mess hall."

"Non lethal?! Awwww," Zeus groaned.

Hera harshly smacked the back of his head.

"Ow!"

Chiron pointed to an outdoor pavilion framed in white Grecian columns on a hill overlooking the sea. There were a dozen stone picnic tables. No roof. No walls.

"What do you do when it rains?" I asked.

Chiron looked at me as if I'd gone a little weird. "We still have to eat, don't we?" I decided to drop the subject.

"The centaur needs to die!" Poseidon growled.

The perceptive gods like Hades, Odin, Susano'o and Beelzebub realized that he was angry on the girl's behalf. Though, the sea tyrant didn't realize it himself.

Finally, he showed me the cabins. There were twelve of them, nestled in the woods by the lake. They were arranged in a U, with two at the base and five in a row on either side. And they were without doubt the most bizarre collection of buildings I'd ever seen.

Except for the fact that each had a large brass number above the door (odds on the left side, evens on the right), they looked absolutely nothing alike. Number nine had smokestacks, like a tiny factory. Number four had tomato vines on the walls and a roof made out of real grass. Seven seemed to be made of solid gold, which gleamed so much in the sunlight it was almost impossible to look at. They all faced a commons area about the size of a soccer field, dotted with Greek statues, fountains, flower beds, and a couple of basketball hoops (which were more my speed).

Specific gods suddenly felt drawn to specific cabins.

Hephaestus to Cabin 9, Demeter to Cabin 4, and Apollo to Cabin 7.

In the center of the field was a huge stone-lined firepit. Even though it was a warm afternoon, the hearth smoldered. A girl about nine years old was tending the flames, poking the coals with a stick.

For some reason, Hestia became drawn to the girl tending the hearth.

The girl is tending the hearth like how I would, she thought.

The pair of cabins at the head of the field, numbers one and two, looked like his-and-hers mausoleums, big white marble boxes with heavy columns in front. Cabin one was the biggest and bulkiest of the twelve. Its polished bronze doors shimmered like a hologram, so that from different angles lightning bolts seemed to streak across them. Cabin two was more graceful somehow, with slimmer columns garlanded with pomegranates and flowers. The walls were carved with images of peacocks.

"Zeus and Hera?" I guessed.

"So the cabins are based on the aesthetic of the Olympians," Odin stated.

Zeus puffed out his chest, clearly pleased. "Naturally, my cabin would be the most impressive." He said, even though it's his alternate's cabin.

Hera, on the other hand, eyed her counterpart's cabin with a critical expression. "At least they got the peacocks right," she muttered, her voice tinged with mild dissatisfaction.

Athena observed quietly, nodding in approval at the craftsmanship. "They're fitting representations of their respective deities."

Aphrodite, who had remained silent up until now, scoffed lightly. "How predictable," she murmured, her eyes flickering between the two cabins. "Grandeur and elegance... always vying for attention."

"Correct," Chiron said.

"Their cabins look empty."

"Empty?!" The deities, especially Zeus and Hera, exclaimed in surprise.

"Several of the cabins are. That's true. No one ever stays in one or two."

"Why?" Questioned Zeus with a raised eyebrow.

Okay. So each cabin had a different god, like a mascot. Twelve cabins for the twelve Olympians. But why would some be empty?

"Did she just compare us Olympians to a mascot?" Said Artemis in disbelief.

Apollo chuckled, amused his sister's reaction."It's our counterparts she is making the comparison to sister," he reminded her. "But I suppose us gods have our own brand of appeal if we were to be one."

Hera huffed, clearly not amused. "We are far more than mere symbols," she said, her tone sharp.

I stopped in front of the first cabin on the left, cabin three.

It wasn't high and mighty like cabin one, but long and low and solid. The outer walls were of rough gray stone studded with pieces of seashell and coral, as if the slabs had been hewn straight from the bottom of the ocean floor.

Poseidon narrowed his eyes at the sight of the cabin. It is obvious it belongs to his counterpart.

He won't admit it, but they have similar tastes in decor.

I peeked inside the open doorway and Chiron said, "Oh, I wouldn't do that!"

Before he could pull me back, I caught the salty scent of the interior, like the wind on the shore at Montauk. The interior walls glowed like abalone. There were six empty bunk beds with silk sheets turned down. But there was no sign anyone had ever slept there. The place felt so sad and lonely, I was glad when Chiron put his hand on my shoulder and said, "Come along, Percy."

Most of the other cabins were crowded with campers.

Number five was bright red—a real nasty paint job, as if the color had been splashed on with buckets and fists. The roof was lined with barbed wire. A stuffed wild boar's head hung over the doorway, and its eyes seemed to follow me. Inside I could see a bunch of mean-looking kids, both girls and boys, arm wrestling and arguing with each other while rock music blared. The loudest was a girl maybe thirteen or fourteen. She wore a size XXXL CAMP HALF-BLOOD T-shirt under a camouflage jacket. She zeroed in on me and gave me an evil sneer. She reminded me of Nancy Bobofit, though the camper girl was much bigger and tougher looking, and her hair was long and stringy, and brown instead of red.

Ares paled, suddenly having a bad feeling about this scene.

As usual, Aphrodite looked disgusted.

I kept walking, trying to stay clear of Chiron's hooves. "We haven't seen any other centaurs," I observed.

"No," said Chiron sadly. "My kinsmen are a wild and barbaric folk, I'm afraid. You might encounter them in the wilderness, or at major sporting events. But you won't see any here."

"You said your name was Chiron. Are you really ..."

He smiled down at me. "The Chiron from the stories? Trainer of Hercules and all that? Yes, Percy, I am."

"That's interesting. Unlike his counterpart, my son was self-taught," Zeus said proudly.

Hercules beamed.

"But, shouldn't you be dead?"

Chiron paused, as if the question intrigued him. "I honestly don't know about should be. The truth is, I can't be dead. You see, eons ago the gods granted my wish. I could continue the work I loved. I could be a teacher of heroes as long as humanity needed me. I gained much from that wish ... and I gave up much. But I'm still here, so I can only assume I'm still needed."

The gods were taken aback by Chiron's profound revelation.

Zeus's brows furrowed with a mixture of respect and curiosity. "So his existence is bound by a divine wish. That's quite a unique fate."

Hestia's eyes softened with empathy. "It must be both a privilege and a burden to be bound by such a promise."

Athena looked thoughtfully at Chiron. "His dedication to his role is admirable. It seems the gift he received carry both great responsibility and great sacrifice."

Hades raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the notion of a wish that granted such a lasting purpose. "A continuous role as a teacher... That is indeed a significant commitment."

I thought about being a teacher for three thousand years. It wouldn't have made my Top Ten Things to Wish For list.

"Hah!" Loki burst out.

"Doesn't it ever get boring?"

"No, no," he said. "Horribly depressing, at times, but never boring."

"Why depressing?"

Chiron seemed to turn hard of hearing again.

"Maybe he has too much ear wax in his ears," Anubis remarked.

"Anubis, stop saying stupid things,"Ra-Horakhty said.

"Oh, look," he said. "Anthony is waiting for us."

The blond boy I'd met at the Big House was reading a book in front of the last cabin on the left, number eleven.

"Ugh, him again," scoffed a random god.

The Greek god of the seas glared at the sight of the blonde boy.

When we reached him, he looked me over critically, like he was still thinking about how much I drooled.

Never before had Poseidon wanted so badly to slash someone into pieces.

I tried to see what he was reading, but I couldn't make out the title. I thought my dyslexia was acting up. Then I realized the title wasn't even English. The letters looked Greek to me. I mean, literally Greek. There were pictures of temples and statues and different kinds of columns, like those in an architecture book.

"Anthony," Chiron said, "I have masters' archery class at noon. Would you take Percy from here?"

"Yes, sir."

"Cabin eleven," Chiron told me, gesturing toward the doorway. "Make yourself at home."

Out of all the cabins, eleven looked the most like a regular old summer camp cabin, with the emphasis on old. The threshold was worn down, the brown paint peeling. Over the doorway was one of those doctor's symbols, a winged pole with two snakes wrapped around it. What did they call it... ? A caduceus.

Inside, it was packed with people, both boys and girls, way more than the number of bunk beds. Sleeping bags were spread all over on the floor. It looked like a gym where the Red Cross had set up an evacuation center.

Hermes looked visibly uncomfortable at the sight of the cabin, but didn't know why.

"It must be the condition of the cabin," he mumbled to himself, since he is a known clean freak.

Chiron didn't go in. The door was too low for him. But when the campers saw him they all stood and bowed respectfully.

"Well, then," Chiron said. "Good luck, Percy. I'll see you at dinner."

He galloped away toward the archery range.

The gods looked shocked at the state of the cabin.

"Wait, is the centaur really leaving the girl to stay in that overcrowded cabin?!" Shiva said in disbelief.

Hades frowned. "The cabin is a mess. It looks like they haven't had a proper cleaning in years."

Demeter turned her nose up at the sight. "It's practically falling apart. This isn't what I expected for a place meant to house demigods."

I stood in the doorway, looking at the kids. They weren't bowing anymore. They were staring at me, sizing me up. I knew this routine. I'd gone through it at enough schools.

"I can foresee she is going to get into trouble soon," said Buddha.

"Well?" Anthony prompted. "Go on."

"How dare he push her," Poseidon said with a scowl, annoyed by the boy's tone.

So naturally I tripped coming in the door and made a total fool of myself. There were some snickers from the campers, but none of them said anything.

It bothered Poseidon the audacity of these imbeciles to dare laugh at her. He feels like ripping the heads of all those fools.

Anthony announced, "Perc illa  Jackson, meet cabin eleven.

"Regular or undetermined?" somebody asked.

I didn't know what to say, but Anthony said, "Undetermined."

Everybody groaned.

"What does regular or undetermined mean?" Asked Odin.

"I am not sure, but it could be related to the classification of the demigods," Susano'o responded.

A guy who was a little older than the rest came forward. "Now, now, campers. That's what we're here for. Welcome, Percy. You can have that spot on the floor, right over there."

The guy was about nineteen, and he looked pretty cool. He was tall and muscular, with short-cropped sandy hair and a friendly smile. He wore an orange tank top, cutoffs, sandals, and a leather necklace with five different-colored clay beads. The only thing unsettling about his appearance was a thick white scar that ran from just beneath his right eye to his jaw, like an old knife slash.

"Oh another blonde," Zeus casually remarked.

His brother glared at him.

Hera pinched the bridge of her nose in frustration.

"What? I am just saying there are too many blondes in the camp," Zeus said with a laugh.

Poseidon did not believe him one bit.

Hades and Hermes felt uneasy at the sight of the boy, and it is not because of his scar. Something about him didn't sit right.

"This is Luke," Anthony said. "He's your counselor for now."

"For now?" I asked.

"You're undetermined," Luke explained patiently. "They don't know what cabin to put you in, so you're here. Cabin eleven takes all newcomers, all visitors. Naturally, we would. Hermes, our patron, is the god of travelers."

"Hey...since Percilla would be Poseidon's daughter in that universe," Zeus began to say until Poseidon cut him off.

"Damn you Zeus! I already said she is not mine!"

Zeus ignored him. "Then that boy would be..."

"He is my son!" Hermes exclaimed in shock.

"And some of those kids in that cabin as well," added Ares.

Hermes looks like he is about to faint, just like Dionysus before.

"Ooh I can't wait to see my children!" Aphrodite squealed excitedly.

The other Olympians wondered if they will see their children from that universe as well.

I looked at the tiny section of floor they'd given me. I had nothing to put there to mark it as my own, no luggage, no clothes, no sleeping bag. Just the Minotaur's horn. I thought about setting that down, but then I remembered that Hermes was also the god of thieves.

Hermes kept rubbing his face, still reeling from the revelation.

"How could they not give her anything to make her more comfortable?!" Parvati, one of Shiva's wives shouted angrily. "She shouldn't have to sleep on that small space!"

I looked around at the campers' faces, some sullen and suspicious, some grinning stupidly, some eyeing me as if they were waiting for a chance to pick my pockets.

"They are definitely Herme's kids," said Apollo.

"How long will I be here?" I asked.

"Good question," Luke said. "Until you're determined."

"How long will that take?"

The campers all laughed.

"Why is that funny?" Asked Hestia with a frown.

"Come on," Anthony told me. "I'll show you the volleyball court."

"I've already seen it."

"Come on." He grabbed my wrist and dragged me outside.

Poseidon wants to cut off that hand.

I could hear the kids of cabin eleven laughing behind me.

When we were a few feet away, Anthony said, "Jackson, you have to do better than that."

"What?"

He rolled his eyes and mumbled under his breath, "I can't believe I thought you were the one."

"What's his problem?" Asked the Chinese god Sun Wukong, aka The Monkey King.

"What's your problem?" I was getting angry now. "All I know is, I kill some bull guy—"

"Don't talk like that!" Anthony told me. "You know how many kids at this camp wish they'd had your chance?"

"To get killed?"

"To fight the Minotaur! What do you think we train for?"

Hercules gasped. "The demigods in that universe are trained to kill monsters?! But they are just kids!"

Zeus scowled. "There must be something wrong with our alternates to allow children to fight."

Hades's face darkened. "It's one thing to train for battle, but to have children risk their lives—"

Poseidon's eyes were cold and furious. "How foolish of our counterparts!"Although he doesn't care about the other demigods, it's the idea that Percilla will be risking herself that enraged him. The thought of her facing such danger, unprepared and without proper support, made him feel both anger and frustration.

Brunhilde clenched her fists in anger.

Göll look at her sister worriedly. "Sister...are you alright?"

But Brunhilde was not listening.

How could the damn gods in that universe allow children to fight monsters?! I would have thought by having children, they'd have a deep sense of morality. They are no better than the gods here! She thought.

I shook my head. "Look, if the thing I fought really was the Minotaur, the same one in the stories ..."

"Yes."

"Then there's only one."

"Yes."

"And he died, like, a gajillion years ago, right? Theseus killed him in the labyrinth. So ..."

"Monsters don't die, Percy. They can be killed. But they don't die."

"HUH?!" Every deity exclaimed.

"You gotta be shitting me! The monsters don't die over there ?" Shiva yelped.

"So what? They regenerate or something!" Loki yelled.

"Oh, thanks. That clears it up."

"They don't have souls, like you and me. You can dispel them for a while, maybe even for a whole lifetime if you're lucky. But they are primal forces. Chiron calls them archetypes. Eventually, they re-form."

Odin stroked his beard thoughtfully, his one eye gleaming with ancient wisdom. "Archetypes, yes" he murmured, "enduring beyond time and space and the essence of what we represent cannot be destroyed, only reshaped."

I thought about Mrs. Dodds. "You mean if I killed one, accidentally, with a sword—"

"The Fur ... I mean, your math teacher. That's right. She's still out there. You just made her very, very mad."

"How did you know about Mrs. Dodds?"

"You talk in your sleep."

"You almost called her something. A Fury? They're Hades' torturers, right?"

Everyone glances at the God of the Underworld.

"My Furies punish those who commit crimes. However, I am unsure why the one in that universe was after the girl, since she had no knowledge of the divine before encountering her," said Hades.

Anthony glanced nervously at the ground, as if he expected it to open up and swallow him. "You shouldn't call them by name, even here. We call them the Kindly Ones, if we have to speak of them at all."

"Kindly my a*s," snorted Buddha.

"Look, is there anything we can say without it thundering?" I sounded whiny, even to myself, but right then I didn't care. "Why do I have to stay in cabin eleven, anyway? Why is everybody so crowded together? There are plenty of empty bunks right over there."

I pointed to the first few cabins, and Anthony turned pale. "You don't just choose a cabin, Percy. It depends on who your parents are. Or ... your parent."

"It's obvious the girl needs to stay at my counterpart's cabin," stated Poseidon.

He stared at me, waiting for me to get it.

"My mom is Sally Jackson," I said. "She works at the candy store in Grand Central Station. At least, she used to."

"I'm sorry about your mom, Percy. But that's not what I mean. I'm talking about your other parent. Your dad."

"He's dead. I never knew him."

Anthony sighed. Clearly, he'd had this conversation before with other kids. "Your father's not dead, Percy."

"And he was not around to protect her," said Poseidon angrily, making his fellow gods blink in surprise.

Or well, they shouldn't be surprised anymore since clearly the God of Gods felt something for the girl.

"How can you say that? You know him?"

"No, of course not."

"Then how can you say—"

"Because I know you. You wouldn't be here if you weren't one of us."

"You don't know anything about me."

"No?" He raised an eyebrow. "I bet you moved around from school to school. I bet you were kicked out of a lot of them."

"How—"

"Diagnosed with dyslexia. Probably ADHD, too."

"Hmm, so there is a pattern among the demigods," said Zeus in wonder. "Interesting."

"But why do the demigods have dyslexia and ADHD specifically," Questioned Hades.

I tried to swallow my embarrassment. "What does that have to do with anything?"

"Taken together, it's almost a sure sign. The letters float off the page when you read, right? That's because your mind is hardwired for ancient Greek. And the ADHD—you're impulsive, can't sit still in the classroom. That's your battlefield reflexes. In a real fight, they'd keep you alive. As for the attention problems, that's because you see too much, Percy, not too little. Your senses are better than a regular mortal's. Of course the teachers want you medicated. Most of them are monsters. They don't want you seeing them for what they are."

"That explains it," said Hephaestus.

"You sound like ... you went through the same thing?"

"Most of the kids here did. If you weren't like us, you couldn't have survived the Minotaur, much less the ambrosia and nectar."

"Ambrosia and nectar."

"The food and drink we were giving you to make you better. That stuff would've killed a normal kid. It would've turned your blood to fire and your bones to sand and you'd be dead. Face it. You're a half-blood."

"Oh, it was nectar that she drank?!" Heset exclaimed in surprise.

Hades nodded to himself. He was right to think it was nectar given to her.

A half-blood.

I was reeling with so many questions I didn't know where to start.

Then a husky voice yelled, "Well! A newbie!"

I looked over. The big girl from the ugly red cabin was sauntering toward us. She had three other girls behind her, all big and ugly and mean looking like her, all wearing camo jackets.

Aphrodite cringed.

The bad feeling returned to Ares.

"Clarisse," Anthony sighed. "Why don't you go polish your spear or something?"

"Sure, Mister Prince," the big girl said. "So I can run you through with it Friday night."

''Erre es korakas!" Anthony said, which I somehow understood was Greek for 'Go to the crows!' though I had a feeling it was a worse curse than it sounded.

"Go to hell!" Apollo translated.

"You don't stand a chance."

"We'll pulverize you," Clarisse said, but her eye twitched. Perhaps she wasn't sure she could follow through on the threat. She turned toward me. "Who's this little runt?"

"Percilla Jackson," Anthony said, "meet Clarisse, Daughter of Ares."

The Greek war god started to sweat nervously again as everyone turn their heads toward him.

"So she is your daughter," stated his lover Aphrodite, who raised a brow at him.

"Uh...Dite, she is my counterpart's daughter remember! Well she is kind of my daughter as well but still....!" Ares stammered.

The love goddess turned away. "Well, she needs a decent makeover."

I blinked. "Like ... the war god?"

Clarisse sneered. "You got a problem with that?"

Every deity in the room frowned. So far, they did not like this half-ling one bit.

Ares glanced fearfully at Poseidon, who is focused on watching the screen.

"No," I said, recovering my wits. "It explains the bad smell."

Most of the gods bursted into laughter.

Clarisse growled. "We got an initiation ceremony for newbies, Prissy."

"Percy."

"Whatever. Come on, I'll show you."

"Clarisse—" Anthony tried to say.

"Stay out of it, wise boy."

"Percy is going to get into trouble!" Squawked Muninn.

"I saw it coming," said Buddha, taking a bite of a potato chip.

Ares painfully bit his lips as he watched the screen.

Anthony looked pained, but he did stay out of it, and I didn't really want his help. I was the new kid. I had to earn my own rep.

"That's right! The girl should stand her ground!" Zeus shouted, then a sound of a smack was heard, followed by a yelp.

Thor and Beelzebub nodded in approval.

Hades and Hestia looked worried.

Poseidon turned the dust from his crushed armrests into nanoparticles.

I handed Anthony my minotaur horn and got ready to fight, but before I knew it, Clarisse had me by the neck and was dragging me toward a cinder-block building that I knew immediately was the bathroom.

I was kicking and punching. I'd been in plenty of fights before, but this big girl Clarisse had hands like iron. She dragged me into the girls' bathroom. There was a line of toilets on one side and a line of shower stalls down the other. It smelled just like any public bathroom, and I was thinking—as much as I could think with Clarisse ripping my hair out—that if this place belonged to the gods, they should've been able to afford classier johns.

"Are the gods in that universe that cheap, Papa?" Asked Ganesha, the elephant-headed son of Shiva and Hindu god of luck.

"Seems to be so, my son," responded Shiva, wrapping his two left arms around him.

Clarisse's friends were all laughing, and I was trying to find the strength I'd used to fight the Minotaur, but it just wasn't there.

"Like she's 'Big Three' material," Clarisse said as she pushed me toward one of the toilets. "Yeah, right. Minotaur probably fell over laughing, she was so stupid looking."

"Big Three?" Questioned Hades curiously.

Her friends snickered.

Anthony stood in the corner, watching through his fingers.

"Wimp," sneered Loki.

Clarisse bent me over on my knees and started pushing my head toward the toilet bowl. It reeked like rusted pipes and, well, like what goes into toilets.

Ares began to shake.

"Ewww!" The gods gagged.

I strained to keep my head up. I was looking at the scummy water, thinking, I will not go into that. I won't.

"Yes, please! Summon your powers!" Cheered Zeus.

All the gods held their breath and waited in anticipation.

Poseidon watched the scene with rapt attention.

Then something happened. I felt a tug in the pit of my stomach. I heard the plumbing rumble, the pipes shudder. Clarisse's grip on my hair loosened. Water shot out of the toilet, making an arc straight over my head, and the next thing I knew, I was sprawled on the bathroom tiles with Clarisse screaming behind me.

Many gasps can be heard in the room.

I turned just as water blasted out of the toilet again, hitting Clarisse straight in the face so hard it pushed her down onto her butt. The water stayed on her like the spray from a fire hose, pushing her backward into a shower stall.

She struggled, gasping, and her friends started coming toward her. But then the other toilets exploded, too, and six more streams of toilet water blasted them back. The showers acted up, too, and together all the fixtures sprayed the camouflage girls right out of the bathroom, spinning them around like pieces of garbage being washed away.

"The water she summoned is more powerful than how she did it previously!" Exclaimed Hera.

"She is truly the daughter of Poseidon!" Zeus yelled.

The most surprising thing is this time, Poseidon didn't argue with Zeus.

As soon as they were out the door, I felt the tug in my gut lessen, and the water shut off as quickly as it had started.

The entire bathroom was flooded. Anthony hadn't been spared.  He  was dripping wet, but  he  hadn't been pushed out the door.  He  was standing in exactly the same place, staring at me in shock.

I looked down and realized I was sitting in the only dry spot in the whole room. There was a circle of dry floor around me. I didn't have one drop of water on my clothes. Nothing.

"Good," Zeus said, visibly pleased. "Looks like she's getting the hang of it."

Hades and Hestia exchanged relieved glances, while Poseidon's eyes seems to shone with....pride?

"She's got the potential." Said Hera, a hint of satisfaction in her voice.

I stood up, my legs shaky.

Anthony said, "How did you ..."

"I don't know."

We walked to the door. Outside, Clarisse and her friends were sprawled in the mud, and a bunch of other campers had gathered around to gawk. Clarisse's hair was flattened across her face. Her camouflage jacket was sopping and she smelled like sewage. She gave me a look of absolute hatred. "You are dead, new girl. You are totally dead."

"I'd like to see her try," yelled Loki, still cheering for the Ares girl's failed scheme.

I probably should have let it go, but I said, "You want to gargle with toilet water again, Clarisse? Close your mouth."

Buddha smirked. "Nice comeback."

Her friends had to hold her back. They dragged her toward cabin five, while the other campers made way to avoid her flailing feet.

Anthony stared at me. I couldn't tell whether he was just grossed out or angry at me for dousing him.

The boy's stare irked Poseidon.

"What?" I demanded. "What are you thinking?"

"I'm thinking," he said, "that I want you on my team for capture the flag."

The screen stopped playing.

"Ooh I can't wait for the next scene!" Shouted Zeus excitedly, jumping up and down like a kid.

"Not yet Zeus," said a familiar ancient voice.

"LORD CHAOS!" Everyone exclaimed in unison.

The primordial black void of nothingness suddenly appears in the room.

"Why have you returned my lord?" Asked Zeus respectfully, his earlier excitement replaced with reverence.

"I have decided to show you all glimpses of the demigods's powers."

Chapter Text

These are the demigods and characters I picked for Chaos to show in the next chapter. I spent a lot of time thinking of this. It is impossible for me to write about all of them. So I divided the list by "Detailed" and "mentioned".

All of these characters are either demigods or humans/mortals.

If you guys think I should make changes in the character list, leave a comment.

Detailed:

1. Poseidon/Neptune- Korra, Utakata, Kisame, Tobirama Senju (I decided not to show Percy because the regular reactions already does that)
2. Zeus/Jupiter and Thor (similar powers)- Thalia, Jason Grace, Gunilla, Lars Alhstrom, Static Shock, Sasuke, Cole McGrath, Killua Zoldyk
3. Hades/Pluto -Nico & Bianca di Angelo, Hazel Levesque, Raziel (Legacy of Kain), Spawn, Riku, Sung Jin Woo
4. Apollo/Phoebus - Will Solace, Stephen Strange, Silver Surfer, Quicksilver
5. Loki - Samirah Al-Abbas, Alex Fierro, The Joker, Light Yagami
6. Hermes/Mercury- Luke Castellan, Travis & Connor Stoll, Carmen Sandiego
7. Athena/Minerva- Anthony Chase, Lelouch, Edward & Alphonse Elric, Kiyotaka Ayanokoji

Mentioned:

Greeks/Romans

1. Hera/Juno - Cersei Lannister, Regina Mills, Queen Ramonda
2. Hestia/Vesta - Morrigan (dragon age), Katara, Molly Weasley
3. Demeter/Ceres- Katie Gardener, Poison Ivy, Flora
4. Aphrodite/Venus - Piper McLean, Tengen Usui, Loid Forger
5. Artemis/Diana - Katniss Everdeen, Buffy Summers, Mulan
6. Hephaestus/ Vulcan - Charles Beckendorf, Leo Valdez, Tony Stark, Winry Rockbell
7. Ares/Mars- Clarisse La Rue, Frank Zhang, Levi & Mikasa Ackerman, Captain America

Norse

8. Frey -Magnus Chase
9. Tyr - Thomas Jefferson Jr.
10. Freya - Blitzen
11. Frigg- Mallory Keen

Hindu

12. Indra - Aru Shah
13. Dharma Raja - Yamini-Kapoor-Mercado-Lopez
14.Vayu - Brynne Rao
15. Nasatya - Nikita
16. Dasra - Sheela

Mayan

17. Hurakan - Zane Obispo
18. Pacific - Ren Santiago
19. Nakon - Marco
20. Ixchel - Serena
21. Ixtab - Alana, Adrik
22. Ah-Muzen-Cab - Kenji
23. Akan - Diamante
24. Yohualli - Ezra

Mesopotamian

25. Ninsun - Gilgamesh

Egyptian
Note: Egyptian deities cannot have demigod children. Instead they have human hosts to stay in the mortal world.

26. Anubis - Walt Stone
27. Horus - Carter Kane
28. Isis - Sadie Kane
29. Nephthys - Zia Rashid
30. Osiris - Julius Kane
31. Set - Amos Kane

Chapter Text

Every deity immediately quieted, their eyes wide in surprise at Chao's words.

Glimpses of the demigods's power? That would mean I can see the abilities of my children, thought Hades.

This a waste of my time, Poseidon thought in annoyance.

Zeus continued, his tone careful and curious, "My Lord, what made you decide to reveal the abilities of the demigods from the other universe to us?"

Chaos, an entity so ancient that even the oldest gods were like mere children before him, hovered in the center of the room. His presence was overwhelming, a swirling mass of darkness with hints of distant galaxies and stars twinkling within his form.

"To have you all witness their strengths and potential," Chaos intoned, his voice echoing like a thousand whispers from the beginning of time. "Their powers are growing. They are destined to shape the future of their world and beyond. But before they do, you must understand the magnitude of their abilities."

The deities listened with rapt attention.

"But not only the demigods of that universe I will show. I will also allow you all to witness the abilities of other mortals across universes as well."

Gasps echoed across the room.

"Other mortals?!" Exclaimed Shiva in surprise.

"My Lord, by 'other mortals', do you mean...humans?" Hera asked tentatively.

"Indeed, Goddess of Marriage," Chaos responded, his tone laced with amusement. "You will see even those who are not born of divine blood can possess powers and potential that rival, and sometimes surpass, the gods themselves."

The room fell silent, the gravity of Chaos's words sinking in. The idea that mortals without an trace of divinity could hold such power was unsettling to the gods. They were about to witness a truth that had been hidden from them for eons—a truth that could alter their understanding of the cosmos and their place within it.

With a subtle gesture, Chaos waved his powers, and the screen flickered to life once more.

"I will first show you mortals with similar abilities to Poseidon and Percilla." Said Chaos.

Hearing his name, the sea god snap his head to attention.

Mortals with abilities like my own, impossible! They are nothing like my daughter and I!

He scowled at his thoughts, then internally berated himself. The girl will never be any relation to him.

Poseidon and the rest of the deities turn their attention back to the screen.

The first person appeared on the screen, a young woman standing in the center of a vast ocean. Korra, the Avatar, effortlessly manipulated the water around her, creating whips and tendrils of liquid that danced to her will. She executed a series of fluid movements, transitioning seamlessly from waterbending to the other elements—earth, fire, and air—demonstrating the full breadth of her Avatar abilities. But her true mastery lay in the water, where she was most at home. She formed a massive water dome around herself, using it as both a shield and a weapon, showcasing her raw power and incredible skill.

Poseidon watches the scene with no indication of emotion on his face.

Next came Utakata, a shinobi from another world, known for his use of the Bubble Ninjutsu. Standing near a waterfall, Utakata blew a series of bubbles that shimmered with an ethereal light. The bubbles floated gently in the air before suddenly hardening into spheres of destructive power, capable of leveling mountains. His connection to the Six-Tails, Saiken, made his water-based techniques even more formidable, and the screen showed him summoning a tidal wave of corrosive bubbles, erasing a battalion of enemies in a single strike.

The screen then darkened, and a menacing , blue, shark-like figure emerged—Kisame Hoshigaki, the Monster of the Hidden Mist. Wielding his infamous sword, Samehada, Kisame manipulated vast quantities of water with ease. He stood in the midst of a battlefield, transforming the environment into a massive ocean. As he clashed with his opponents, Kisame merged with Samehada, his form becoming more shark-like, and the water around him surged with devastating force. His enemies were overwhelmed by his relentless attacks, proving why he was feared as one of the most dangerous shinobi in his world.

Just as the deities marveled at the display of power, the screen shifted once more, revealing a silver-haired figure in the midst of a raging river.

Tobirama Senju, the Second Hokage, known for his mastery of Water Release, stood calmly in the eye of the storm. With a single hand sign, the water around him bent to his will, forming colossal walls that towered over the battlefield. His Water Dragon Jutsu roared to life, spiraling through the air with terrifying speed and precision, obliterating everything in its path. Tobirama's expression remained stoic, his eyes calculating as he effortlessly controlled the river, transforming the terrain into a deadly weapon. His prowess was unmatched, and even the gods felt a pang of unease as they watched him wield the water with such cold efficiency.

Poseidon's eyes narrowed at the sight of Tobirama, sensing the mortal's deep connection to the element he so fiercely commanded. This human... he is no mere mortal. His control over water rivals even mine, Poseidon grudgingly admitted to himself.

The gods murmured in awe as the screen faded to black.

"What do you all think of these mortals?" Asked Chaos.

The deities exchanged looks of astonishment and contemplation, their usual composure rattled by the display they had just witnessed.

Zeus couldn't hide his curiosity. "Their abilities are remarkable. It seems they have harnessed forces akin to those of our own domain."

Hades, leaning forward, nodded in agreement. "Indeed, the sheer power they wield is impressive."

The Primordial turn to the silent sea god.

"Poseidon, I want to know your opinion on these mortals."

Poseidon narrowed his eyes but relented, knowing he could not defy Chaos. "Their powers are impressive, though their origins are far from divine. It is clear that they possess abilities that could rival those of the gods. I would be remiss not to acknowledge their potential."

The gods dropped their jaws in shock at his answer.

Chaos gave a satisfied hum. "I didn't expect your opinion to be so positive, Poseidon. This suggests you're beginning to understand the significance of mortals. Next, I'll show you mortals who bear a striking resemblance to both Zeus and Thor, as they share similar abilities. The first two are Zeus's demigod children—one by his alternate self and the other by his alternate self's... counterpart."

The gods exchanged confused glances.

"Are you talking about the Roman gods, Lord Chaos?" Ares asked.

"Precisely, God of War," Chaos confirmed.

"Wait... the Roman gods... aren't they just our alternate versions with Roman names?" Apollo asked, uncertainty lacing his voice.

"Yes and no," Chaos replied.

The deities erupted into murmurs, their confusion only growing.

"Lord Chaos, what do you mean?" Zeus demanded, his voice carrying the weight of authority.

"The Roman gods of that universe are separate entities."

"WHAT?!!!" The exclamation rang out, with the Greeks shouting the loudest.

Hades and Poseidon exchanged looks of disbelief.

Ares fainted.

"Please explain, my lord," Hades requested, his tone carefully controlled.

Chaos continued, "When the Greek deities in that universe were adopted by Rome, they gained another aspect. They became both more and less than what they originally were. They exist as separate entities due to their ability to be in multiple places at once, embodying both their Greek origins and their Roman forms simultaneously."

The room fell into stunned silence as the gods tried to process this revelation.

Zeus narrowed his eyes, his mind racing to make sense of Chaos's words. "So, you're saying that in this alternate universe, my Roman counterpart isn't just my alternate with a different name, but a completely different god?"

"Exactly," Chaos replied. "Jupiter, the Roman king of the gods, is not just merely a reflection of you, Zeus. He possesses his own thoughts, motives, and personality, separate from your own. The same goes for the other Roman deities. They are independent beings, despite sharing origins with your Greek counterparts."

Poseidon frowned. "If what you say is true, then there are essentially two of us—two versions of each god—operating within that universe. Doesn't that create conflict?"

Chaos nodded. "It does, and it has. The two pantheons are not always aligned, and their differing interpretations of their roles have led to clashes. However, this duality has also made them more powerful in certain respects. They can draw from both the Greek and Roman aspects of their domains, making them formidable beings."

The room fell into a heavy silence as the gods absorbed this information. A new understanding was dawning upon them, one that challenged everything they knew about their own identities and powers.

"Also, you all must remember that the demigods from that universe are different than the ones here. The demigods in that universe are all offsprings of gods," added Chaos.

Hercules and Chu Chulainn listened attentively. What Lord Chaos said astounded them since they are the demigods of this world. They were humans before ascending into godhood. (Note: In my story, all ror demigods are not offsprings of gods.)

"Show us," Zeus finally said, his voice resolute. "Show us these demigods and mortals."

Chaos inclined his form. "Very well. Prepare yourselves, for what you are about to see will forever change your perception of mortal power."

The screen flashes.

Ares woke up in time to watch the scene.

Thalia Grace appeared next, her presence commanding as lightning crackled around her. The daughter of Zeus wielded her spear with precision, calling down bolts of lightning that split the sky. She fought against a horde of monsters, her speed and agility unmatched as she dodged their attacks. With a powerful shout, she summoned a lightning storm that obliterated her enemies, leaving nothing but scorched earth in its wake.

The screen then transitioned to Jason Grace, Thalia's younger brother, soaring through the air with the wind beneath his wings. As the son of Jupiter, his control over the sky was absolute. He flew at incredible speeds, dodging attacks with ease. He summoned thunderbolts that struck with pinpoint accuracy, decimating his enemies. In one scene, Jason used his power to create a massive storm, the sky darkening as lightning struck down from all directions, annihilating everything in its path.

"Jason Grace is the son of Zeus's Roman counterpart, Jupiter." Stated the primordial.

"What do you think of your children Zeus?" Chaos asked the leader of the gods.

The elderly god looked utterly speechless. Then his face broke into a huge smile.

"They are AWESOME!" He yelled, to the annoyance of his wife.

"Good, good. Glad you like them. How about you, Queen of the Gods? What do you feel about these demigod children?" Chaos asked towards Hera.

Hera pursed her lips. "Their abilities are indeed impressive. It is clear they have inherited great power."

"Excellent. Now the next two will be the children of Thor," the primordial announced.

Thor jolted at the mention at the mention of his name, his expression showing shock. His brethren have the same reaction.

Although Chaos did mention that other pantheons besides the Greeks have demigod children, he didn't expect himself to have any.

"My children?" Said the God of Thunder in surprise.

Frigg, the Norse goddess of marriage and Queen of Asgard, looked at her husband Odin.

"More grandchildren!" She exclaimed excitedly.

Odin just sighs, while Muninn and Huginn looked concerned.

Loki cackled.

The scene on the screen changes.

Gunilla, the daughter of Thor, was shown next. Clad in armor, she wielded her war hammer with devastating strength. Thunder rumbled as she charged into battle, her hammer smashing through enemies with ease. She called upon the power of her father, summoning lightning that danced across her weapon, electrifying anyone who dared to oppose her. With a mighty swing, she unleashed a wave of energy that sent her enemies flying, proving that she was every bit her father's daughter.

Finally, Lars Alhstrom, another child of Thor, was shown manipulating electrical currents with his bare hands. He could absorb and redirect energy with precision, using it to enhance his physical abilities. The screen displayed him in a fierce battle, where he unleashed a torrent of lightning that surged through the battlefield, incapacitating his foes. His control over electricity was so refined that he could even use it to heal himself and others, making him a versatile and formidable warrior.

As the scene disappeared, the room was silent. The gods were visibly impressed by the power they had witnessed.

The Norse god of thunder has a look of wonder in his eyes.

"Impressive," he commented.

"Next, I will show you the mortals without any divine lineage, but have similar abilities to Zeus and Thor," said Chaos.

The scene shifted to an urban setting, where Static aka Virgil Hawkins, surrounded by electrical energy, soared through the sky. He manipulated electricity with skill, using it both for defense and to strike against foes. His control over the electrical forces was evident in the lightning arcs that followed him.

"Virgil wields electricity with precision, making him a potent force in both offense and defense," Lord Chaos explained.

The next scene showcased Sasuke Uchiha in the midst of a fierce battle. His Sharingan eyes glowed with intensity as he manipulated fire and lightning, his movements fluid and precise. His powers and strategic mind made him a formidable adversary.

"Sasuke's mastery of fire and lightning, coupled with his tactical prowess, illustrates the depth of his abilities," said the primordial.

The room remained captivated as Lord Chaos prepared to unveil the next set of visions. The scene changed once more.

The scene revealed Cole McGrath amidst a city in ruins. His hands crackled with raw electric energy as he manipulated bolts of lightning to both protect and attack. The cityscape around him was a testament to his power, with electrical currents arcing through the air, and his ability to harness energy making him a force to be reckoned with.

"Cole McGrath channels electric power with unmatched control, turning devastation into a tool for his will," Chaos narrated.

The scene changed to a dense forest where Killua Zoldyck darted through the trees with remarkable speed. His agility and sharp reflexes allowed him to avoid attacks and strike swiftly. The vision showcased his ability to manipulate his own electricity, creating an aura that increased his lethality in combat.

"Killua's speed and electric abilities make him an exceptionally dangerous and elusive opponent. His prowess in both physical and elemental combat demonstrates that even those with mortal origins can challenge even the might of gods." Chaos concluded.

The room fell into a profound silence as the final image of Killua's electrifying speed and precision lingered on the screen, leaving the gods and deities to contemplate the true breadth of power that exists in the multiverse.

"The next set of mortals will be the children of Hades and the mortals with similar powers as him," Chaos declared.

Hades's eyes seem to sparkle.

A new scene appeared:

Nico di Angelo was shown standing in a dark cavern, shadows swirling around him. As the son of Hades, his connection to the dead was absolute. With a wave of his hand, he summoned an army of skeletal warriors, their eyes glowing with an eerie light. The ground beneath his feet cracked open, revealing the souls of the damned, which Nico commanded with ease. The screen showed him teleporting through shadows, appearing behind his enemies and striking with deadly precision. His mastery over death and shadows was terrifying, yet awe-inspiring.

The scene shifted to a dark, shadowy forest where Bianca di Angelo, clad in the silver garb of the Hunters of Artemis, stood ready for battle. Wielding a bronze hunting knife, she faced the advancing skeletal warriors with fluid, calculated movements, every strike reflecting her skill and determination. As the enemies closed in, she summoned shadows—her power as a daughter of Hades—binding and crushing her foes with a silent command. Despite the relentless assault, Bianca fought with the calm resolve of one who had accepted her fate, summoning spirits of fallen soldiers to aid her as she made a heroic stand, determined to protect her friends and ensure their mission's success.

"The Di Angelo siblings are the children of Hades. The next person is the daughter of Hades's roman counterpart, Pluto." Said Chaos.

Next, Hazel Levesque was depicted in a scene where she used her power to manipulate precious metals and stones. As the daughter of Pluto, she had the unique ability to summon wealth from the earth, but it came at a cost. The screen showed her using these treasures in battle, forming weapons from gold and silver that struck down her enemies. But her true strength lay in her command of the Mist, which she used to manipulate reality itself, confusing and disorienting her foes before delivering the final blow.

"What do you think of these children, Hades?"

The god of death closed his eyes for a moment, taking in the full weight of what he had just witnessed. When he opened them, there was a expression of pride on his face.

"They are remarkable," Hades finally said, his voice filled with a mix of admiration and deep thought. "Nico and Bianca... they embody the power of the Underworld in ways I never imagined possible. Their command over death, shadows, and the spirits of the fallen is unparalleled. Nico's mastery of necromancy and shadow travel, and Bianca's unwavering resolve and skill in combat—they are the very essence of what it means to be children of the Underworld."

He paused, his gaze shifting to Hazel. "And Hazel... she is a different kind of strength. Pluto's Roman legacy flows through her veins, giving her the power to manipulate wealth and the Mist. But it is her resilience—her ability to bear the curse of her powers and still fight with such grace—that truly sets her apart. She is a reminder that our power comes with a heavy price, but also that it can be wielded with purpose and control."

The other gods watched Hades in silence, surprised by his uncharacteristic display of emotion. Even Zeus seemed taken aback by his brother's reaction.

Chaos observed Hades with a knowing smile. "Indeed, they are exceptional. But remember, Hades, their potential is not only a reflection of your power but also of their own will and determination. They are proof that mortals, even those touched by death, can rise above their circumstances and shape their own destinies."

Hades nodded in agreement.

Chaos was not done. "Now, prepare yourselves," he announced, drawing the gods' attention back to him. "The next mortals you will see are those with abilities akin to Hades."

Raziel, a being from another universe, was shown next. Once a soul reaver, Raziel now wielded the power of the underworld itself. The screen displayed him tearing through enemies with his spectral blade, consuming their souls to fuel his power. He could shift between the physical and spectral realms, making him nearly invincible. His mastery of death was so complete that he could even control time, reversing it to undo his enemies' actions. Raziel was a force of nature, his power rivaling that of the gods themselves.

"This mortal can control time?!" Exclaimed Hades in shock, a very rare expression on him.

"Yes," responded Chaos.

The screen then showed Spawn, a dark figure clad in a red cape, standing in a hellish landscape. Once a man, he was now a creature of the underworld, wielding the powers of Hell itself. The screen depicted him summoning chains from the shadows, which he used to ensnare and tear apart his enemies. His powers were vast and terrifying, from teleportation to necroplasmic energy blasts. Spawn's enemies stood no chance against his relentless assault, and even the gods watching could feel the darkness that radiated from him.

Hades looked amazed at Spawn's display of powers.

Riku, a young man with silver hair, was shown next. He stood in the middle of a battlefield, wielding a keyblade that shimmered with dark energy. Riku's connection to darkness was undeniable, and the screen showed him using it to teleport across the battlefield, striking down enemies with swift, deadly blows. He could summon creatures from the darkness to fight alongside him, overwhelming his foes with sheer numbers and power. Riku's mastery of both light and darkness made him a formidable warrior, one who could stand against even the most powerful enemies.

Hades smiled in approval, recognizing the strength in Riku's ability to balance and command such opposing elements.

The screen shifted to display Shikamaru Nara, a man with spiky hair and a seemingly lazy demeanor, standing on a battlefield. Unlike the other warriors, Shikamaru's strength lay not in raw power but in his unparalleled intellect. The gods watched as his shadow stretched across the battlefield, binding multiple enemies with precise control. Shikamaru's sharp mind allowed him to outmaneuver and outthink his opponents, predicting their moves with eerie accuracy. He orchestrated the battle like a game of chess, turning the tide with each calculated move. His shadow possession jutsu forced his enemies into submission, using their own strength against them. Despite lacking the overwhelming force of the others, Shikamaru's tactical brilliance made him a formidable adversary, one whose mind was as deadly as any god's power.

Hades raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "A mortal who fights with his mind rather than brute force? Interesting."

Chaos nodded. "Indeed. In his world, Shikamaru Nara is a man whose brilliance in battle rivals the strength of any god. He sees the battlefield as a game of chess, where every move is calculated and every outcome anticipated."

Finally, the screen displayed Sung Jin Woo, a man who had ascended from the weakest of all to the most powerful. As a shadow monarch, his power was absolute. The screen showed him commanding an army of shadows, each one a powerful warrior in its own right. He could absorb the power of his enemies, growing stronger with each victory. Sung Jin Woo's presence was overwhelming, his power limitless. He was a king among kings, and his enemies fell before him like wheat before the scythe.

This mortal actually made Hades's eyes want to pop out.

The screen faded to black, and the room was filled with a sense of awe.

The gods sat in stunned silence, their minds reeling from the display of raw power and mastery over death they had just witnessed. Each figure had demonstrated abilities that not only rivaled but, in some cases, surpassed their own, a humbling reminder of the vastness of the multiverse.

Zeus, who had initially watched with indifference, now found himself shifting uneasily in his throne. The power these beings wielded was undeniable, and for the first time, he felt a pang of fear.

Poseidon broke the silence first. "These mortal or whatever they are, they seem to be embodiments of death. Each one could challenge the gods themselves, perhaps even us." His voice held an edge of unease.

Athena nodded thoughtfully, her mind already analyzing the implications. "They possess a strength born of suffering and darkness, yet they've turned it into something formidable. Raziel's control over time, Spawn's mastery of Hell's powers, Riku's balance between light and darkness, and Sung Jin Woo's dominion over shadows—they all reflect a depth of power and resilience that's rarely seen, even among gods."

Hades remained silent, his gaze fixed on the now-blank screen. The pride he felt for his own children was matched only by his respect for the others. These beings had overcome unimaginable odds to reach their current levels of power, and he couldn't help but feel a kinship with them.

Chaos, sensing the gods' mixed emotions, allowed a moment of reflection before he spoke again. "You see now, don't you? The power of death, of darkness, is not merely destructive. It is transformative. It is through facing the darkest parts of existence that these beings have found their strength. They are not to be feared because they wield death, but to be respected because they have mastered it."

Ares, ever the warrior, leaned forward, a glint of excitement in his eyes. "I wouldn't mind testing my mettle against any of them. Especially that last one, Sung Jin Woo. He fights with the strength of an entire army at his command."

"Foolishness," Hera snapped, glaring at Ares. "These beings are not mere warriors. They are forces unto themselves. We must tread carefully. If they ever turned their sights on us..." She trailed off, the implication clear.

Beelzebub watched every scene with thinly veiled interest. His mind was already racing with possibilities. The power these mortals wielded intrigued him. What fascinating subjects they would make, he mused. The idea of experimenting on these beings, of dissecting their powers and understanding the very fabric of their existence, filled him with a twisted excitement. His fingers twitched, itching to begin his work.

Adamas sat back in his chair, his expression one of deep contemplation. As he watched the display of these demigods and mortals, a thought crept into his mind—a thought that refused to leave. Could I have sired such powerful offspring?

Brunhilde had been watching the screen with a calculating gaze. Her mind was already turning toward the future. If the gods still wish to destroy humanity, these mortals could be the key to victory in Ragnarok. She could see the potential in each of them—their strength, their resilience, their ability to harness the very forces of death and darkness. If she could rally them to her cause, they could tip the scales in favor of the humans. Brunhilde's lips curled into a small, knowing smile. Yes, she thought, these mortals could be invaluable allies—if I can convince them to join our fight.

Chaos raised a hand, silencing the murmurs that had begun to spread among the gods. "These beings are from different worlds, different realities, but the principles remain the same. Power can corrupt, but it can also purify. It all depends on the wielder. Remember this as you continue to watch."

"The next mortals you will see are those who possess powers akin to Apollo. The first to appear will be the demigod."

As the screen flickered back to life, Apollo leaned forward, his golden eyes narrowing in anticipation. His demigod children he can accept, but the idea that mere mortals could possess powers akin to his own intrigued him. How could anyone, let alone a mortal, embody the divine radiance and mastery of light that defined him?

The first figure to appear was a young man with blond hair and a calm, determined expression—Will Solace, son of Apollo. Will stood in the middle of a battlefield, his hands glowing with healing light as he tended to a fallen ally. The screen then showed him conjuring a brilliant bow of light, shooting arrows that exploded on impact, bathing the battlefield in Apollo's divine radiance. Will's mastery of both healing and destruction was undeniable, a perfect reflection of Apollo's dual nature.

Apollo felt a swell of pride as he watched his son work. This is what it means to wield the power of the sun, he thought. To bring both life and death with equal grace.

Next, the screen shifted to a different world, where a man in a flowing red cloak and a blue tunic stood before an ancient temple—Stephen Strange, the Sorcerer Supreme. The screen displayed Strange weaving intricate spells with his hands, conjuring protective wards and devastating energy blasts. His mastery over the mystical arts allowed him to manipulate reality itself, bending time and space to his will. But what caught Apollo's attention most was the Eye of Agamotto hanging around Strange's neck, glowing with an intense light that rivaled his own.

Apollo's perked up in interest. A mortal, wielding such power... he thought, though he couldn't help but admire the finesse with which Strange wielded the light. He is more than a mere magician.

Then, the scene shifted to a cosmic expanse, where a silver figure soared through the stars—the Silver Surfer. His entire body radiated with the power cosmic, a force so great that it transcended the boundaries of life and death. The screen showed the Surfer summoning energy beams that could annihilate entire planets, yet he wielded this power with a quiet grace, never allowing it to corrupt him. His mastery of light and energy was on a scale that even the gods would find difficult to match.

Apollo's hands tightened on the arms of his seat. Such power... how does a mere mortal, even one so gifted, command such forces? Admiration showed in his expression. Could I match him in sheer cosmic might?

Finally, the screen displayed a man moving so fast that the world around him seemed to blur—Quicksilver, the speedster. The screen showed him darting through a battlefield, his movements so swift that he appeared as nothing more than a streak of light. He moved faster than thought, faster than sound, delivering blows before his enemies could even register his presence. His speed allowed him to manipulate light and energy in ways that defied the natural laws, bending them to his will as he darted in and out of danger.

Apollo watched with fascination. Speed like that... it's as if he channels the very essence of light. He can feel his respect for these mortals growing. They are not to be underestimated.

As the screen faded to black once more, the gods sat in stunned silence, absorbing the display of power. Apollo leaned back in his seat, his mind racing. The beings they had just witnessed wielded powers that mirrored his own in ways he had never imagined possible.

Zeus glanced at Apollo, noting the conflicted expression on his son's face. "It seems the mortals have found ways to rival even the gods," he remarked, his voice tinged with a mix of admiration and concern.

Apollo didn't respond immediately. Instead, he remained deep in thought, pondering the implications of what he had just seen. Finally, he spoke, his voice steady. " While power is one thing, understanding, control, and purpose is most important. These mortals may mirror our abilities."

Chaos allowed the gods a moment to digest what they had seen before speaking once more. "These beings, these mortals and demigods, are a testament to the potential that exists in all forms of life. They wield powers that challenge the very essence of divinity."

Apollo nodded slowly, he could not deny the truth in Chaos's words.

As the scene shifted, the screen once again flickered to life, drawing the attention of the gods.

"This time, I will show you mortals whose abilities are akin to those of Loki," Chaos announced, his tone carrying a hint of intrigue.

The trickster god sat up straighter.

The first figure to appear was the demigod daughter of  Loki, Samirah Al-Abbas, her presence commanding the screen. She stood in a desolate wasteland, wielding her axe with an effortless grace. The screen showed her shapeshifting and using her tactical acumen to outmaneuver her enemies, her every move a testament to her cunning and skill.

"As Loki's daughter, his essence can be seen in Samirah's ability to blend combat prowess with enchantments and strategic deception," Chaos explained. "Now I'll show you another daughter of his."

The scene shifted to a bustling cityscape where Alex Fierro, a figure of striking presence, was seen harnessing the power of both fire and metal. Transforming between a fierce warrior and a fluid, molten form, Alex used her powers to create and control flames with precision, shaping them into formidable weapons and defenses. Her shape-shifting abilities allowed her to adapt to any situation, making her a versatile and unpredictable force.

"Alex's ability to manipulate both fire and metal, combined with her shape-shifting, embodies Loki's qualities of versatility and transformation," Chaos continued.

Pride bloomed inside the God of Mischief's chest.

"Now for the non-divine mortals."

Next, the screen revealed The Joker, his iconic grin a chilling sight. In a chaotic urban environment, he unleashed a barrage of unpredictability. The Joker's mastery over chaos was evident as he manipulated his surroundings with a mix of elaborate traps and psychological warfare, his every action designed to unsettle and destabilize. His ability to create mayhem and exploit the chaos around him mirrored Loki's affinity for disorder and manipulation.

"The Joker's embodiment of chaos and psychological manipulation aligns closely with Loki's own nature," Chaos noted.

The final figure on the screen was Light Yagami, his eyes glowing with a cold, calculating intensity. Surrounded by a montage of scenes depicting his use of the Death Note, Light orchestrated a series of intricate plans, eliminating targets with precision and ensuring his control over the world from the shadows. His ability to manipulate life and death through mere names on a page showcased a form of power rooted in deception and control, akin to Loki's own mastery of schemes and influence.

"Light Yagami's control over life and death through the Death Note reflects the deceptive and influential aspects of Loki's character," Chaos concluded.

The gods watched in a mix of fascination and apprehension. The diverse displays of power, from Samirah's strategic combat to The Joker's chaos and Light Yagami's control over life and death with his manipulation, offered a glimpse into the many facets of Loki's own essence.

Loki himself observed the screen with an inscrutable expression. Though his nature was often seen as one of mischief and deceit, the power displayed by these mortals demonstrated a range of abilities that extended beyond simple trickery.

Zeus, always keen on analyzing the implications, remarked, "These mortals reflect not just Loki's penchant for chaos but also his talent for influencing and shaping the world around them. They embody his skills in manipulation and strategy."

Loki smirked, his eyes glinting with a mix of satisfaction and curiosity. "Indeed. It's always interesting to see how others interpret my particular brand of power. Each of these individuals shows a different aspect of what I can do."

Hades, who had been quietly observing, nodded in agreement. "The way they wield their abilities reveals the complexity and depth of Loki's influence. It's a reminder that power, in any form, is multifaceted and can be used in a multitude of ways."

Chaos, sensing the gods' reflections, allowed a moment of contemplation before speaking again. "Remember, the essence of these beings is not merely in their abilities but in how they embody the core aspects of their influences. Their powers are as varied as the beings themselves, and they challenge our understanding of what it means to wield such power."

"Next to be shown is Herme's lineage and the following mortals with similar aspects."

Hermes, for some reason, felt nervous.

The gods' attention turned sharply back to the screen as Chaos began to unveil the next set of individuals, this time embodying the lineage and aspects of Hermes, the god of speed, travel, and cunning. Hermes shifted in his seat, a flicker of unease crossing his usually calm demeanor.

"The first three figures you will see are the sons of Hermes," Chaos declared.

The screen displayed a scene from Camp Half-Blood, where a young man with a determined expression navigated the dense woods with remarkable agility. The figure was none other than Luke Castellan, the demigod son of Hermes. Luke darted through the forest with a speed that seemed almost impossible, dodging obstacles with precision and using his natural stealth to remain unseen. His combat skills were honed, but it was his quick thinking and adaptability that truly set him apart. Whether in the heat of battle or negotiation, Luke demonstrated a sharp mind, always a step ahead.

The perceptive deities frowned at the sight of this demigod. Their gut is telling them there is something off about him.

"Luke Castellan," Chaos announced. "His speed and strategic mind echo the swift-footed messenger god. Yet, he is not only a warrior; his silver tongue and ability to sway others reflect Hermes' gift of communication and persuasion."

Hermes watched the screen intently, his emotions a mix of pride, but also anxiousness.

The scene then shifted to the next figures, two young men moving in perfect synchrony. Travis and Connor Stoll, the mischievous sons of Hermes, were in the middle of a heist at Camp Half-Blood, their hands quick as lightning as they 'borrowed' supplies for a prank. Their teamwork was flawless; one brother would distract while the other executed the plan, and within moments, they had what they needed. The screen highlighted their knack for mischief, their swift movements, and their innate ability to create chaos without ever being caught.

"Travis and Connor Stoll," Chaos introduced. "These two epitomize Hermes' spirit of mischief and quick wit. Their clever schemes and flawless execution show how even minor acts of trickery can have significant effects."

A chuckle rippled through the assembly as the gods recognized the light-hearted but effective cunning of the Stoll brothers. Hermes relaxed slightly, a smile playing at the corners of his lips.

The screen then darkened before revealing a new scene—a figure dressed in red, standing on the edge of a skyscraper, surveying the city below with a calculating gaze. Carmen Sandiego, the elusive master thief, leaped from the rooftop, her crimson coat billowing behind her like a cape. She moved with an elegance and speed that left no trace, slipping through security systems and evading capture effortlessly. Each heist was meticulously planned, and her escape routes were flawless, leaving authorities baffled time and time again. Carmen was not just a thief; she was a ghost, disappearing without a trace, her every action marked by finesse and a deep understanding of her surroundings.

"Carmen Sandiego," Chaos stated, the name itself carrying a weight of mystery. "A mortal who embodies the very essence of Hermes' cunning and speed. She is a master of evasion and deception, her mind as quick as her feet. She outsmarts her opponents not just with her skills, but with her intellect, making her a legend in her own right."

The gods watched, mesmerized by the sheer elegance of Carmen's abilities. Hermes couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for the mortal who so perfectly captured the essence of his own attributes.

"These figures," Chaos continued, his voice thoughtful, "demonstrate that speed and cunning are not merely physical traits but are deeply tied to one's ability to outthink and outmaneuver others. Whether through battle, mischief, or masterful theft, these mortals show that true power lies in the ability to adapt and to use one's gifts to navigate the world in ways that others cannot."

Hermes nodded slowly, his nervousness dissipating as he took pride in the mortals and demigods who had captured and reflected his essence so well. "It seems," he said with a knowing smile, "that speed and cunning are more than just tools—they are an art."

Chaos nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Hermes. And like all forms of art, they require both skill and creativity to be truly effective."

The gods murmured in approval, their respect for the trickster god growing as they recognized the depth and breadth of his influence in the world of mortals. Hermes, ever the messenger, felt the weight of this acknowledgment, realizing that his legacy extended far beyond mere speed—it was about the cleverness, the wit, and the ability to navigate the complexities of life with grace and skill.

As the gods contemplated the lessons they had learned, Chaos prepared to unveil the next set of individuals, leaving them to wonder which god's essence would be explored next.

"The next set of individuals will embody the lineage of Athena," Chaos announced.

The gods' attention was once again drawn to the screen as Chaos announced the next group of individuals.

"This time," Chaos began, his voice resonating through the hall, "we will witness mortals who embody the essence of Athena, the goddess of wisdom, warfare, and strategy."

Athena, seated with her usual calm and composed demeanor, allowed a faint smile to grace her lips. The idea of seeing mortals who reflected her own attributes intrigued her. She knew that wisdom was a trait that extended far beyond mere intelligence; it required the ability to apply knowledge with precision, to strategize and to lead with insight.

The screen flickered to life, revealing the first figure—a familiar face to many of the gods.

A sudden anger risen up within Poseidon at the sight of this half-breed.

Athena gasps in shock. She did not expect this half-ling to be her son.

"Anthony Chase," Chaos introduced, as the demigod son of Athena appeared on the screen. He stood in the middle of a labyrinth, his sharp eyes scanning the environment as she quickly analyzed the situation. The screen highlighted his exceptional intelligence as she solved complex puzzles, his strategic mind working at lightning speed to navigate the challenges before him. Anthony's leadership abilities were evident as he guided his companions with confidence, his wisdom and foresight enabling them to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.

"Anthony possesses not only the wisdom and strategic mind of his mother, Athena, but also the courage to lead others through even the most difficult of trials," Chaos remarked. "His ability to think on his feet and adapt to any situation is a testament to the power of knowledge and its application."

Athena showed a complicated expression upon noticing a dark aura surrounding Poseidon.

I hope Poseidon does not lash out on me for the boy's treatment of his daughter. Even though the half-blood is my son, I didn't exactly bore him, thought Athena worriedly.

The scene shifted, revealing a young man seated on a throne, his piercing gaze commanding the attention of those around him.

"Lelouch vi Britannia," Chaos continued, "a mortal who embodies the strategic genius and tactical brilliance of Athena. As a leader of a rebellion, Lelouch uses his intellect and cunning to orchestrate elaborate plans and outmaneuver his enemies. His ability to manipulate and control situations from the shadows is unparalleled, and his foresight allows him to stay several steps ahead of his opponents."

The screen displayed a montage of Lelouch executing his plans with precision, his every move calculated to achieve his goals. Whether in the heat of battle in his Knightmare Frame or in the political arena, Lelouch's mind was always working, analyzing, and predicting the actions of others.

Athena observed the young man with a thoughtful expression. Lelouch's brilliance, though often used in morally ambiguous ways, was undeniably impressive. He demonstrated the power of intellect when wielded with purpose and determination.

Next, the screen revealed two brothers standing side by side, their expressions a mix of determination and hope.

"Edward and Alphonse Elric," Chaos announced, "are mortals who represent the relentless pursuit of knowledge and the unyielding drive to uncover the truth. Through their studies of alchemy, they have gained a deep understanding of the world around them, and they use this knowledge to protect and restore what has been lost. Their journey is one of discovery, both of the world and of themselves, and their commitment to their goals embodies Athena's thirst for wisdom and justice."

The gods watched as the Elric brothers used their alchemical abilities to overcome challenges, their bond with each other strengthening as they faced adversity against the Homunculi. Their resilience and unwavering determination were a reflection of Athena's own values.

Finally, the screen shifted to reveal a young man with an enigmatic expression, his eyes sharp and calculating.

"Kiyotaka Ayanokoji," Chaos concluded, "a mortal whose intelligence and strategic mind are concealed behind a façade of indifference. Ayanokoji is a master of manipulation, using his knowledge of human behavior to achieve his objectives without drawing attention to himself. His ability to analyze and exploit the weaknesses of others, while maintaining an aura of mystery, aligns closely with Athena's strategic prowess."

The screen depicted Ayanokoji subtly influencing those around him, his actions always precise and calculated. He maneuvered through complex social dynamics with ease, never revealing his true intentions.

Athena observed Ayanokoji with a keen eye. His subtlety and ability to remain hidden while executing his plans reminded her that true wisdom often lay in knowing when to act and when to observe.

As the screen faded to black, Chaos spoke once more. "These mortals demonstrate that wisdom is not just the accumulation of knowledge, but the ability to apply it in ways that shape the world around them. Whether through strategy, leadership, or the pursuit of truth, they embody the essence of Athena in their own unique ways."

Athena nodded in agreement. "Indeed," she said softly, "wisdom is a force that guides, protects, and illuminates. These individuals have shown that it is through the mind that we truly wield power."

The gods murmured their approval, recognizing the depth and complexity of Athena's influence in the mortal world. As they reflected on the lessons imparted by these displays, they awaited the next reveal, curious to see which god's lineage would be explored next.

"Now let's continue on with the next individuals..."

And so, Chaos continue to reveal more demigods and mortals the embodies the lineage or attributes of the gods of all the pantheons. The gods have more than enough time on their hands to watch all of this.

Among the demigods and mortals revealed to the gods, along with the divine lineage are Katie Gardener, Poison Ivy, Flora (Demeter/Ceres), Piper McLean, Tengen Usui, Loid Forger (Aphrodite/Venus) Charles Beckendorf, Leo, Valdez, Tony Stark, Winry Rockbell (Hephaestus/Vulcan), Clarisse La Rue, Frank Zhang, Levi & Mikasa Ackerman, Captain America (Ares/Mars), Magnus Chase (Frey), Thomas Jefferson Jr. (Tyr), Blitzen (Freya), Mallory Keen (Frigg), Aru Shah (Indra), Yamini-Kapoor-Mercado-Lopez (Dharma Raja), Brynne Rao (Vayu), Nikita (Nasatya), Sheela (Dasra), Zane Obispo (Hurakan), Ren Santiago (Pacific), Marco (Nakon), Serena (Ixchel), Alana, Adrik (Ixtab), Kenji (Ah-Muzen-Cab), Diamante (Akan), Ezra (Yohualli), and Gilgamesh (Ninsun).

Although Hera, Hestia, and Artemis don't have demigod children, there are mortals compatible with their abilities. Those are: Cersei Lannister, Regina Mills, Queen Ramonda (Hera/Juno), Morrigan, Katara, Molly Weasley (Hestia/Vesta), Katniss Everdeen, Buffy Summers, Merida, and Mulan, (Artemis/Diana).

To the surprise of the Egyptian pantheons, they do not have demigod children from the other universe. Instead they have human hosts, most specifically from the Kane family who are descended from pharaohs and magicians. Most of the egyptian gods don't care, some don't know what to feel, and others are jealous that the other pantheons get to have demigod children.

Among the mortals mentioned in connection to the Egyptian pantheon are: Walt Stone (Anubis), Carter Kane (Horus), Sadie Kane (Isis), Zia Rashid (Nephythys), Julius Kane (Osiris), and Amos Kane (Set).

At this point, Chaos has finished showing these gods the glimpses of the abilities of demigods and mortals.

"I have completed my goal, now you all can proceed with watching Percilla's life," said the primordial, who then vanished.

Chapter Text

The atmosphere in the Council of Valhalla became heavy with anticipation. The weight of what they had just witnessed—mortals and demigods reflecting their divine attributes so vividly—settled on them, challenging their perceptions of both their own power and the mortals they had often overlooked.

Zeus, sitting at the head of the assembly, leaned forward slightly. His eyes gleamed with a mix of curiosity and caution. "Well," he rumbled, his voice commanding attention, "this has certainly been enlightening."

Hades leaned back slightly, a smirk playing on his lips. "It appears that the mortals and demigods of these different universes are not so different from us. They too carry the burden of power, wisdom, and fate."

Odin nodded in agreement. "Indeed, their struggles and triumphs mirror our own, though they walk paths shaped by their own choices. It's fascinating to see how our essence manifests in them, even without our direct influence."

A low hum of conversation filled the hall as the gods discussed what they had just seen. The images of the various mortals and demigods lingered in their minds, challenging their perceptions of power, influence, and the responsibilities that came with it. Some gods felt pride, others unease, and a few even questioned their own roles in the lives of these beings.

Artemis, who had been silent for much of the presentation, spoke up. "I must admit, seeing these mortals who embody my attributes—Katniss, Buffy, Merida, Mulan—gives me hope. They are fierce, independent, and unwavering in their pursuit of justice. They remind me why I cherish the hunt and the freedom that comes with it."

Hestia, the goddess of hearth and home, smiled softly. "And the mortals who align with my essence—Molly Weasley, Katara—they show the power of nurturing, of caring for others. It's a different kind of strength, one that is often overlooked, but no less important."

Hera, ever the queen, regarded the mortals tied to her with a contemplation. "Cersei Lannister, Regina Mills, Queen Ramonda—they are rulers, mothers, protectors of their own. They reflect the complexities of power and the sacrifices that come with it."

Zeus, his gaze sweeping over the assembled gods, finally spoke again. "Let us not forget what Chaos has shown us today. These mortals and demigods are not just reflections of our power—they are testaments to the enduring nature of our influence across worlds and time."

Poseidon began to contemplate his brother's words.

A title returns on the screen:

MY DINNER GOES UP IN SMOKE

"Her dinner is going to be on fire?!" Heset yelled in shock. As the egyptian goddess of food and drink, a burned dinner is unacceptable.

A good portion of the human population in Midgard shivered.

Word of the bathroom incident spread immediately. Wherever I went, campers pointed at me and murmured something about toilet water. Or maybe they were just staring at Anthony, who was still pretty much dripping wet.

Fools, thought Poseidon with a scowl. How dare those useless halfbreeds mock her.

He showed me a few more places: the metal shop (where kids were forging their own swords), the arts-and-crafts room (where satyrs were sandblasting a giant marble statue of a goat-man), and the climbing wall, which actually consisted of two facing walls that shook violently, dropped boulders, sprayed lava, and clashed together if you didn't get to the top fast enough.

Hephaestus look interested when the scene showed the kids forging.

They must be more of my children, he thought, recognizing the sights of Charles Beckendorf.

Seeing the climbing wall, Hades scrunched his brows in worry. He hopes she doesn't try to climb it. The thought of her getting caught between those massive walls, with boulders and lava raining down, made even the lord of the Underworld uneasy. The idea of her in danger stirred something protective within him.

Finally we returned to the canoeing lake, where the trail led back to the cabins.

"I've got training to do," Anthony said flatly. "Dinner's at seven-thirty. Just follow your cabin to the mess hall."

"Anthony, I'm sorry about the toilets."

"Whatever."

"He is so rude. It is not Percy's fault she couldn't control her powers," said Kali with irritation.

"It wasn't my fault."

He looked at me skeptically, and I realized it was my fault. I'd made water shoot out of the bathroom fixtures. I didn't understand how. But the toilets had responded to me. I had become one with the plumbing.

"No sweetie, it is not your fault!" Yelled Shiva's wives, Leto, and Hestia.

"You need to talk to the Oracle," Anthony said.

Apollo perked up at the mention of the Oracle.

"Who?"

"Not who. What. The Oracle. I'll ask Chiron."

I stared into the lake, wishing somebody would give me a straight answer for once.

"Yeah, they still hadn't been honest with her! It's so annoying!" Shouted Loki, which the gods agreed.

I wasn't expecting anybody to be looking back at me from the bottom, so my heart skipped a beat when I noticed two teenage girls sitting cross-legged at the base of the pier, about twenty feet below. They wore blue jeans and shimmering green T-shirts, and their brown hair floated loose around their shoulders as minnows darted in and out. They smiled and waved as if I were a long-lost friend.

I didn't know what else to do. I waved back.

"Hmmm," hummed Aphrodite with a secretive smile. To the love goddess, all forms of love are acceptable.

"Don't encourage them," Anthony warned. "Naiads are terrible flirts."

"Naiads," I repeated, feeling completely overwhelmed. "That's it. I want to go home now."

Anthony frowned. "Don't you get it, Percy? You are home. This is the only safe place on earth for kids like us."

"You mean, mentally disturbed kids?"

"I mean not human. Not totally human, anyway. Half-human."

"Half-human and half-what?"

"I think you know."

"What is this? Twilight?" Said an irritated Nyx, the primordial Greek goddess of the night, and daughter of Chaos. She had been here since Zeus began the meeting over mankind.

I didn't want to admit it, but I was afraid I did. I felt a tingling in my limbs, a sensation I sometimes felt when my mom talked about my dad.

Poseidon frowned. He never likes it when his counterpart is mentioned.

"God," I said. "Half-god."

Anthony nodded. "Your father isn't dead, Percy. He's one of the Olympians."

"That's ... crazy."

"Is it? What's the most common thing gods did in the old stories? They ran around falling in love with humans and having kids with them. Do you think they've changed their habits in the last few millennia?"

"I can't believe it's that common in that universe for gods to fall in love with humans," said Apollo. "Good thing us gods in this world didn't go around breeding with mortals," he finished with a smirk, crossing his arms.

"Zeus I can believe, but the rest of us? Nah," added Shiva with a lazy wave of his two right hands.

"HEY!" Shouted Zeus, his voice booming as he glared at Shiva. "I'll have you know I don't go frolicking with humans! I have higher standards!"

His reaction made most of the gods laugh.

Hera gritted her teeth in anger.

"But those are just—" I almost said myths again. Then I remembered Chiron's warning that in two thousand years, I might be considered a myth. "But if all the kids here are half-gods—"

"Demigods," Anthony said. "That's the official term. Or half-bloods."

"Then who's your dad?"

"More like 'who's your mom,'" quipped Buddha.

His hands tightened around the pier railing. I got the feeling I'd just trespassed on a sensitive subject.

Athena suddenly felt uneasy.

Did my counterpart do something wrong?

"My dad is a professor at West Point," He said. "I haven't seen him since I was very small. He teaches American history."

"He's human."

"What? You assume it has to be a male god who finds a human female attractive? How sexist is that?"

Artemis and other goddesses nodded their heads in agreement.

"Who's your mom, then?"

"Cabin six."

"Meaning?"

Many deities want to bang their heads against a wall.

"That boy is insufferable," muttered Hades.

"Ugrh!" Loki pulled his hair in frustration at the boy's continued inability to clarify things for the girl.

Anthony straightened. "Athena. Goddess of wisdom and battle."

Okay, I thought. Why not?

"And my dad?"

"Undetermined," Anthony said, "like I told you before. Nobody knows."

"Well, it's kind of obvious who her father is," Dionysus remarked.

Percilla is surrounded by idiots, thought Poseidon with a contemptuous expression.

"It's either they are stupid, or simply in denial," added Apollo.

"Except my mother. She knew."

"Maybe not, Percy. Gods don't always reveal their identities."

"My dad would have. He loved her."

Many deities felt pity the girl for believing so firmly that her father loved her mother. How can she know for sure that her father loved them despite being absent for most of their lives?

Anthony gave me a cautious look. He didn't want to burst my bubble. "Maybe you're right. Maybe he'll send a sign. That's the only way to know for sure: your father has to send you a sign claiming you as his daughter. Sometimes it happens."

"You mean sometimes it doesn't?"

Anthony ran his palm along the rail. "The gods are busy. They have a lot of kids and they don't always ... Well, sometimes they don't care about us, Percy. They ignore us."

The gods listened in silence, their expressions ranging from curiosity to discomfort.

"So if a god doesn't acknowledge them, they might never know their parentage for sure?" Susano'o asked, voice tinged with concern.

Hades nodded solemnly. "It seems the gods in that universe have their own lives and concerns. They don't keep track of their offspring."

"That's just... unfair," whispered Hestia, her eyes softening with empathy.

"Indeed," Hera added, her anger simmering.

Poseidon seems to be fuming silently.

I thought about some of the kids I'd seen in the Hermes cabin, teenagers who looked sullen and depressed, as if they were waiting for a call that would never come. I'd known kids like that at Yancy Academy, shuffled off to boarding school by rich parents who didn't have the time to deal with them. But gods should behave better.

Hermes felt a sharp pain in his chest at the sight of the teenagers. How could his counterpart and the other gods in that universe let their children live that way?

"So I'm stuck here," I said. "That's it? For the rest of my life?"

"It depends," Anthony said. "Some campers only stay the summer. If you're a child of Aphrodite or Demeter, you're probably not a real powerful force."

Aphrodite and Demeter look offended.

"Not a real powerful force?!" Shouted Demeter in a mix of anger and disbelief. "I caused a famine when my Kore was taken from me!"

Hades, Persephone, and Zeus shifted in their seat uncomfortably.

"The monsters might ignore you, so you can get by with a few months of summer training and live in the mortal world the rest of the year. But for some of us, it's too dangerous to leave. We're year-rounders. In the mortal world, we attract monsters. They sense us. They come to challenge us. Most of the time, they'll ignore us until we're old enough to cause trouble—about ten or eleven years old, but after that, most demigods either make their way here, or they get killed off. A few manage to survive in the outside world and become famous. Believe me, if I told you the names, you'd know them. Some don't even realize they're demigods. But very, very few are like that."

"How terrible!" Leto exclaimed, shocked how young the demigods are forced to face such dangers. "To be hunted by monsters before even reaching adolescence is such an awful thing!"

"It seems the more powerful their divine parent, the heavier the burden will be," Odin stated.

Poseidon's face darkened.

Then it means Percilla will have a harder time facing the monsters that come after her, he thought, not liking this at all.

"So monsters can't get in here?"

Anthony shook his head. "Not unless they're intentionally stocked in the woods or specially summoned by somebody on the inside."

"It's good that the monsters can't get in the summer camp," Ares remarked.

"Why would anybody want to summon a monster?"

"Practice fights. Practical jokes."

"Practical jokes?"

"Like pranks?" Said Loki with a mischievous smirk.

"The point is, the borders are sealed to keep mortals and monsters out. From the outside, mortals look into the valley and see nothing unusual, just a strawberry farm."

"So ... you're a year-rounder?"

Anthony nodded. From under the collar of his T-shirt...

The sea god gritted his teeth. If this boy dares to lift his shirt up in front of the girl...

...he pulled a leather necklace with five clay beads of different colors. It was just like Luke's, except Anthony's also had a big gold ring strung on it, like a college ring.

"I've been here since I was nine," he said. "Every August, on the last day of summer session, you get a bead for surviving another year. I've been here longer than most of the counselors, and they're all in college."

"Why did you come so young?"

He twisted the ring on her necklace. "None of your business."

"I can't stand this guy," said a random god, causing mumbles of agreement.

Athena flinched.

"Oh." I stood there for a minute in uncomfortable silence. "So ... I could just walk out of here right now if I wanted to?"

"It would be suicide, but you could, with Mr. D's or Chiron's permission. But they wouldn't give permission until the end of the summer session unless ..."

"It must be the summer solstice," Hades stated.

"Unless?"

"You were granted a quest...

"A quest?" Said the deities.

"The girl needs a quest to leave? That sounds ridiculous," scoffed Hera.

... But that hardly ever happens. The last time ..."

His voice trailed off. I could tell from his tone that the last time hadn't gone well.

"Back in the sick room," I said, "when you were feeding me that stuff—"

"Ambrosia."

"Yeah. You asked me something about the summer solstice."

Anthony's shoulders tensed. "So you do know something?"

"Well... no. Back at my old school, I overheard Grover and Chiron talking about it. Grover mentioned the summer solstice. He said something like we didn't have much time, because of the deadline. What did that mean?"

The deities waited in anticipation.

"Yes, we need a detailed explanation! Stop leaving us hanging!" Squawked Huginn.

He clenched his fists. "I wish I knew. Chiron and the satyrs, they know, but they won't tell me. Something is wrong in Olympus, something pretty major. Last time I was there, everything seemed so normal."

The deities sighed or groaned in disappointment.

"It's worrying that he mentioned there is something going on with their Mount Olympus," said Susano'o. "The situation could affect the girl."

Now, Poseidon starts to have a bad feeling.

"You've been to Olympus?"

"Some of us year-rounders—Luke and Clarisse and I and a few others—we took a field trip during winter solstice. That's when the gods have their big annual council."

"But... how did you get there?"

"The Long Island Railroad, of course. You get off at Penn Station. Empire State Building, special elevator to the six hundredth floor." He looked at me like he was sure I must know this already. "You are a New Yorker, right?"

"We need more information! No one is really telling her anything!" Someone shouted.

"Wasn't there an orientation film she was supposed to watch?" Asked Hercules, remembering the centaur Chiron mentioned it.

"Yeah, but the centaur had the a*sshole boy explain things to her. Wasn't that going well?" Said Artemis sarcastically.

"Oh, sure." As far as I knew, there were only a hundred and two floors in the Empire State Building, but I decided not to point that out.

"Right after we visited," Anthony continued, "the weather got weird, as if the gods had started fighting. A couple of times since, I've overheard satyrs talking. The best I can figure out is that something important was stolen. And if it isn't returned by summer solstice, there's going to be trouble. When you came, I was hoping ... I mean— Athena can get along with just about anybody, except for Ares. And of course she's got the rivalry with Poseidon. But, I mean, aside from that, I thought we could work together. I thought you might know something."

"Something was stolen? I wonder what it could be since it seems my counterpart was angry," said Zeus thoughtfully, rubbing his chin.

"And it has to be returned by the summer solstice," stated Hermes.

"But what is most concerning is Athena's alternate not getting along with the counterparts of Lord Poseidon and I," said Ares, looking troubled. "We get along fine."

Athena nervously glanced at Poseidon, who remained watching the screen stoically.

Well, her uncle never showed any emotions towards her. In honestly, Athena always felt he is indifferent to her and other deities. The only beings whose opinions he actually cared about were Uncle Hades and Grandmother Rhea.

Even when humans fabricated a rivalry between them over the patronage of the city of Athens, her uncle never cared to be the patron of an inferior human city.

I shook my head. I wished I could help him, but I felt too hungry and tired and mentally overloaded to ask any more questions.

"I've got to get a quest," Anthony muttered to himself. "I'm not too young. If they would just tell me the problem ..."

"He is the same age as Percy, right?" Asked Artemis.

Hestia nodded solemnly. "Yes, a child shouldn't be willing to seek something so dangerous as a quest."

"He should definitely get one!" Loki encouraged gleefully. "He is so bothersome to be around her!"

Athena stiffened.

Yes, that boy should get a quest so that he can die, thought Poseidon darkly.

I could smell barbecue smoke coming from somewhere nearby. Anthony must've heard my stomach growl. He told me to go on, he'd catch me later. I left him on the pier, tracing his finger across the rail as if drawing a battle plan.

Back at cabin eleven, everybody was talking and horsing around, waiting for dinner. For the first time, I noticed that a lot of the campers had similar features: sharp noses, upturned eyebrows, mischievous smiles. They were the kind of kids that teachers would peg as troublemakers. Thankfully, nobody paid much attention to me as I walked over to my spot on the floor and plopped down with my minotaur horn.. . . ..

The counselor, Luke, came over. He had the Hermes family resemblance, too. It was marred by that scar on his right cheek, but his smile was intact.

Hermes stared intently at his son's features, which are nothing like his. Luke has blonde hair and blue eyes, while he has black hair and reddish-brown eyes.

"Found you a sleeping bag," he said. "And here, I stole you some toiletries from the camp store."

"How nice of him," commented Göll beside Brunhilde.

The older valkyrie, on the other hand, doesn't trust this half-blood. The other deities have similar sentiments.

Beelzebub reminded himself to keep a close eye on this half-blood.

I couldn't tell if he was kidding about the stealing part.

"Nah, he is definitely not kidding," said Shiva, knowing that a part of Hermes's lineage is thievery.

I said, "Thanks."

"No prob." Luke sat next to me, pushed his back against the wall. "Tough first day?"

"I don't belong here," I said. "I don't even believe in gods."

"Yeah," he said. "That's how we all started. Once you start believing in them? It doesn't get any easier."

The gods frowned at his bitter tone and weight of his words.

The bitterness in his voice surprised me, because Luke seemed like a pretty easygoing guy. He looked like he could handle just about anything.

"So your dad is Hermes?" I asked.

He pulled a switchblade out of his back pocket, and for a second I thought he was going to gut me, but he just scraped the mud off the sole of his sandal. "Yeah. Hermes."

"The wing-footed messenger guy."

"Pffft hahahahahaha!" Laughed every deity in the room.

Zeus roared with laughter, his booming voice shaking the hall.

Even Hades and Poseidon chuckled.

Hermes's face reddened in embarrassment.

"W-wing-footed messenger guy!" Loki choked out, clutching his abdomen. "That's f*cking hilarious!"

"That's him. Messengers. Medicine. Travelers, merchants, thieves. Anybody who uses the roads. That's why you're here, enjoying cabin eleven's hospitality. Hermes isn't picky about who he sponsors."

"My son is so nice," said the still chuckling Zeus, even though the half-blood is talking about Hernes's counterpart.

"Father!" Yelled Hermes in embarrassment, redness reaching his ears.

I figured Luke didn't mean to call me a nobody. He just had a lot on his mind.

"You ever meet your dad?" I asked.

"Once."

Everyone regained their composure.

"Oh, your son had met your counterpart, Hermes," stated Ares.

The uneasy feeling still hadn't disappeared from the god of messengers. He wondered what their encounter was like.

I waited, thinking that if he wanted to tell me, he'd tell me. Apparently, he didn't. I wondered if the story had anything to do with how he got his scar.

Luke looked up and managed a smile. "Don't worry about it, Percy. The campers here, they're mostly good people. After all, we're extended family, right? We take care of each other."

"Yes, family must stick together," Hestia nodded, along with Hades.

He seemed to understand how lost I felt, and I was grateful for that, because an older guy like him—even if he was a counselor—should've steered clear of an uncool middle-schooler like me. But Luke had welcomed me into the cabin. He'd even stolen me some toiletries, which was the nicest thing anybody had done for me all day.

I decided to ask him my last big question, the one that had been bothering me all afternoon. "Clarisse, from Ares, was joking about me being 'Big Three' material. Then Anthony ... twice, he said I might be 'the one.' He said I should talk to the Oracle. What was that all about?"

Luke folded his knife. "I hate prophecies."

"What?!!" The deities exclaimed in surprise.

"There's a prophecy involved?!" Yelled Dionysus.

"I think we should have known," muttered Apollo.

The sea god suddenly became worried.

"What do you mean?"

His face twitched around the scar. "Let's just say I messed things up for everybody else. The last two years, ever since my trip to the Garden of the Hesperides went sour, Chiron hasn't allowed any more quests. Anthony's been dying to get out into the world. He pestered Chiron so much he finally told him he already knew his fate. He'd had a prophecy from the Oracle. He wouldn't tell him the whole thing, but he said Anthony wasn't destined to go on a quest yet. He had to wait until... somebody special came to the camp."

"Somebody special?"

"I wonder who is the special person," said Hercules.

"It's probably uncle's daughter," muttered Athena.

Poseidon, Hades, Odin, Susano'o and Beelzebub have a feeling who the special person is.

"Don't worry about it, kid," Luke said. "Anthony wants to think every new camper who comes through here is the omen she's been waiting for. Now, come on, it's dinnertime."

The moment he said it, a horn blew in the distance. Somehow, I knew it was a conch shell, even though I'd never heard one before.

Luke yelled, "Eleven, fall in!"

The whole cabin, about twenty of us, filed into the commons yard. We lined up in order of seniority, so of course I was dead last. Campers came from the other cabins, too, except for the three empty cabins at the end, and cabin eight, which had looked normal in the daytime, but was now starting to glow silver as the sun went down.

We marched up the hill to the mess hall pavilion. Satyrs joined us from the meadow. Naiads emerged from the canoeing lake. A few other girls came out of the woods— and when I say out of the woods, I mean straight out of the woods. I saw one girl, about nine or ten years old, melt from the side of a maple tree and come skipping up the hill.

In all, there were maybe a hundred campers, a few dozen satyrs, and a dozen assorted wood nymphs and naiads.

"Wow...that's a lot!" Anubis remarked, earning sighs from his fellow egyptian gods.

At the pavilion, torches blazed around the marble columns. A central fire burned in a bronze brazier the size of a bathtub. Each cabin had its own table, covered in white cloth trimmed in purple. Four of the tables were empty, but cabin eleven's was way overcrowded. I had to squeeze on to the edge of a bench with half my butt hanging off.

I saw Grover sitting at table twelve with Mr. D, a few satyrs, and a couple of plump blond boys who looked just like Mr. D.

My sons...thought Dionysus, staring at the two boys.

Chiron stood to one side, the picnic table being way too small for a centaur.

Anthony sat at table six with a bunch of serious-looking athletic kids, all with his gray eyes and honey-blond hair.

Athena stares at the sight of her kids on the screen.

Clarisse sat behind me at Ares's table. She'd apparently gotten over being hosed down, because she was laughing and belching right alongside her friends.

"How unladylike," Aphrodite remarked, making her lover glanced at her nervously.

Finally, Chiron pounded his hoof against the marble floor of the pavilion, and everybody fell silent. He raised a glass. "To the gods!"

Everybody else raised their glasses. "To the gods!"

Wood nymphs came forward with platters of food: grapes, apples, strawberries, cheese, fresh bread, and yes, barbecue! My glass was empty, but Luke said, "Speak to it. Whatever you want—nonalcoholic, of course."

I said, "Cherry Coke."

The glass filled with sparkling caramel liquid.

"That's amazing..." Heset said dreamily.

"Agreed," said Buddha, Shiva, and Anubis at the same time, with the latter salivating.

"Anubis, stop being embarrassing!" Yelled Ra-Horakhty.

Then I had an idea. "Blue Cherry Coke."

The soda turned a violent shade of cobalt.

Poseidon subtly nodded in approval.

I took a cautious sip. Perfect.. . . . .

I drank a toast to my mother.

Suddenly, the atmosphere in the council room feels more gloomy.

"Oh no..." mumbled Hestia worriedly.

She's not gone, I told myself. Not permanently, anyway. She's in the Underworld. And if that's a real place, then someday...

Hades was reminded that his counterpart had possibly kidnapped her mother. He suddenly became pissed on the girl's behalf.

If his ever meet his alternate self, he would make sure to unleash his full fury, punishing him for taking what wasn't his and making him regret ever crossing that line.

"Here you go, Percy," Luke said, handing me a platter of smoked brisket.

I loaded my plate and was about to take a big bite when I noticed everybody getting up, carrying their plates toward the fire in the center of the pavilion. I wondered if they were going for dessert or something.

"Come on," Luke told me.

As I got closer, I saw that everyone was taking a portion of their meal and dropping it into the fire, the ripest strawberry, the juiciest slice of beef, the warmest, most buttery roll.

"NOOOOO!!!" Screamed Heset at the waste of food.

Luke murmured in my ear, "Burnt offerings for the gods. They like the smell."

"You're kidding."

"We never had burnt food as offerings here," commented Zeus.

His look warned me not to take this lightly, but I couldn't help wondering why an immortal, all-powerful being would like the smell of burning food.

"Seriously, it's better to eat it than smell it," said Shiva, looking at the scene in disbelief. "Those gods in that universe are absurd."

"I agree," said Buddha, munching on his snacks.

Luke approached the fire, bowed his head, and tossed in a cluster of fat red grapes. "Hermes."

I was next.

I wished I knew what god's name to say.

Finally, I made a silent plea. Whoever you are, tell me. Please.

My counterpart better acknowledge her, Poseidon thought, watching her throw the food.

I scraped a big slice of brisket into the flames.

Seeing such a large juicy piece of meat burned to oblivion, Heset fainted to the surprise of her brethren.

When I caught a whiff of the smoke, I didn't gag.

It smelled nothing like burning food. It smelled of hot chocolate and fresh-baked brownies, hamburgers on the grill and wildflowers, and a hundred other good things that shouldn't have gone well together, but did. I could almost believe the gods could live off that smoke.

Anubis and Buddha drooled, imagining the foods.

When everybody had returned to their seats and finished eating their meals, Chiron pounded his hoof again for our attention.

Mr. D got up with a huge sigh. "Yes, I suppose I'd better say hello to all you brats. Well, hello. Our activities director, Chiron, says the next capture the flag is Friday. Cabin five presently holds the laurels."

Dionysus scowled, "My counterpart needs to cheer up more."

A bunch of ugly cheering rose from the Ares table.

The gods laughed again.

Ares flinched at the insult towards his children.

"Personally," Mr. D continued, "I couldn't care less, but congratulations. Also, I should tell you that we have a new camper today. Petra Johnson."

"It's Percilla Jackson," Poseidon growled out, surprising everyone.

Observantly, Hades believe his brother is changing on how he felt about his daughter bit by bit the longer he watches her life.

Chiron murmured something.

"Er, Percilla Jackson," Mr. D corrected. "That's right. Hurrah, and all that. Now run along to your silly campfire. Go on."

Everybody cheered. We all headed down toward the amphitheater, where Apollo's cabin led a sing-along. We sang camp songs about the gods and ate s'mores and joked around, and the funny thing was, I didn't feel that anyone was staring at me anymore. I felt that I was home.

Later in the evening, when the sparks from the campfire were curling into a starry sky, the conch horn blew again, and we all filed back to our cabins. I didn't realize how exhausted I was until I collapsed on my borrowed sleeping bag.

My fingers curled around the Minotaur's horn. I thought about my mom, but I had good thoughts: her smile, the bedtime stories she would read me when I was a kid, the way she would tell me not to let the bedbugs bite.

When I closed my eyes, I fell asleep instantly.

That was my first day at Camp Half-Blood.

I wish I'd known how briefly I would get to enjoy my new home.

The screen blackens.

"That ending was ominous," commented Anubis, which earned him a smack on the head from Ra-Horakhty.

Chapter Text

(Present)

Percy sat upright on the edge of the bed, her heart racing as Poseidon entered the room. His piercing gaze locked onto hers, and she fought the urge to look away.

The god that is so not her father moved closer, his steps deliberate and measured. The air in the room seemed to thicken with tension, and Percy instinctively clenched her fists, bracing herself for whatever was to come.

"Percilla," Poseidon spoke her name with a softness that was almost disarming. "I trust your bath was to your liking?"

She swallowed hard, refusing to let his gentle tone sway her. "It was fine," she replied curtly. "But we need to talk."

His brow arched slightly, a mix of curiosity and amusement flickering across his face. "Talk? About what, my dear?"

Percy took a deep breath, steeling herself. She needed to stay strong, to assert herself, even in this twisted situation. "We need to set some boundaries," she said firmly, lifting her chin.

"And what boundaries would you like to establish, Percilla?" he asked, his voice deceptively calm.

Percy hesitated for a moment, her heart pounding in her chest.

"Well, first you need to stop treating me like your possession. I am not something you can control or keep against my will. Secondly, I want my own space—privacy, without you constantly watching over me. And most importantly, do not touch me without my consent."

Poseidon's eyes darkened as Percy laid out her boundaries. The softness in his demeanor faded, replaced by something far more dangerous. He stepped closer, towering over her, his presence suffocating in its intensity.

"You misunderstand the nature of our relationship, Percilla," Poseidon said, his voice low and edged with an underlying threat. "The first two boundaries you have requested are ones I cannot—and will not—honor."

Percy's breath caught in her throat, but she held her ground, refusing to back down even as fear crept up her spine.

"I will not stop treating you as mine," Poseidon continued, his gaze locked onto hers. "Because you are mine, Percilla. You belong to me now, whether you choose to accept it or not. As for your so-called privacy, that is a luxury you will not be afforded. Your escape attempt cost that. Now, your safety is my responsibility, and I will watch over you as I see fit."

He paused, the edge of his tone easy slightly, though it still carried an unmistakable weight. "You may continue to resist, but understand this my pearl: my patience has limits. Do not test them."

The girl's eyes widened in disbelief.

Poseidon then leaned closer, his face inches from hers. "But your third boundary... I will respect," he said, almost as if it pained him to do so. "For now."

For now?! He said for now?! This guy is crazy! Wailed Percy in her mind.

With that, he straightened up, his expression hardening once more. "Remember, Percilla," he added, his voice cold. "You may set your boundaries, but here, I decide which ones are honored. Now, let us sleep."

Percy stiffened at Poseidon's words, her mind racing. The idea of sharing a bed with him was unthinkable, but she knew she had no choice. As much as she wanted to fight back, she had to pick her battles carefully.

Poseidon watched her with an inscrutable expression, waiting for her to protest. When she remained silent, his lips curled into a faint, almost satisfied smile.

"Good," he murmured. "Come, Percilla. It's been a long day, and you need rest."

Percy reluctantly slid under the covers, keeping as much distance between them as possible. Her body remained tense, every muscle on high alert, ready to react if he made any sudden moves. She turned her back to him, facing the far side of the bed, and stared into the darkness, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts.

Poseidon settled beside her, the mattress dipping slightly under his weight. She could feel his presence behind her, a force of nature both literally and figuratively. The room was filled with the sound of their breathing, hers quick and uneven, his steady and controlled. Yet, despite the proximity, Poseidon kept his word. He did not reach out to touch her, nor did he try to close the gap between them.

The silence stretched on, oppressive and heavy. Percy squeezed her eyes shut, willing herself to fall asleep. But how could she, knowing the god who claimed ownership of her was just inches away? The tension in her body refused to ease, every instinct screaming at her to stay awake, to stay vigilant.

But exhaustion was a powerful force. The adrenaline that had kept her going for so long was finally beginning to fade, and despite her best efforts, her eyelids grew heavier with each passing moment.

As the minutes ticked by, Percy's mind began to fog with fatigue. The weight of the day, the emotional and physical strain of it all, finally overcame her resistance. Her body, tense and coiled, slowly relaxed against her will.

And in that moment, sleep finally claimed her, drawing her into a deep, dreamless oblivion, where, for a few precious hours, she could forget the nightmare she had been thrust into.

Poseidon lay awake long after Percy's breathing had evened out, watching her in the darkness. His expression was unreadable, a mix of emotions flickering in his eyes—possession, frustration, and something far more complicated. But he kept his promise. He did not reach for her. Not tonight.

Instead, he simply watched over her, as he had vowed to do, while the night stretched on in silence.

————————

Percy awoke with a start, her heart pounding as she quickly scanned the room. The bed was empty beside her. Poseidon was gone. She exhaled a breath she didn't realize she was holding, relieved to be alone, if only for a moment.

The events of the previous night rushed back to her, and she shuddered from the unsettling memory of his words. She pushed the covers aside and slid out of bed, her bare feet touching the cool marble floor.

As she moved toward the door, it creaked open, and she froze, bracing herself. But instead of Poseidon, a familiar tall, thin figure in formal attire stepped into the room. It was Proteus, Poseidon's butler.

"Good morning, Lady Percilla," Proteus greeted her calmly, with a slight bow. "Lord Poseidon has asked that you prepare for breakfast. He will join you shortly."

Percy narrowed her eyes, wary of the seemingly harmless request. "I'm not hungry," she muttered, her voice edged with defiance.

Proteus didn't so much as blink at her response. "Be that as it may, my lady, Lord Poseidon insists," he replied smoothly. "Additionally, there is someone who wishes to meet you this morning."

Percy's suspicion deepened. "Who?"

"I am not at liberty to say," Proteus answered, his tone unfaltering. "You will find out soon enough. Now, please, allow me to assist you in getting ready."

Reluctantly, she nodded. "Fine. But I'll get ready on my own."

Proteus inclined his head, respectful but unyielding. "As you wish, my lady. I will wait outside." With that, he turned and exited the room, leaving Percy alone once more.

She sighed, running a hand through her tangled hair. The day was just beginning, and already it was fraught with uncertainty. She had no choice but to face whatever—or whoever—was waiting for her. But she vowed to herself that she would stay strong.

Percy quickly dressed, choosing the simplest attire she could find, something that would allow her to move easily if she needed to. As she finished, she caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror—a girl who looked far more composed than she felt.

With a final steadying breath, she opened the door. Proteus was waiting just as he said he would be, and with a slight gesture, he led her down the hallway toward what awaited her.

As they walked, Percy's mind whirled with possibilities. Who could this visitor be? And why did they want to meet her? She steeled herself for whatever was to come, determined to keep her guard up.

When they reached the dining hall, Proteus opened the door for her. She stepped inside, her senses on high alert. The table was set with a lavish spread of food. And there, standing by the window, was Poseidon, his back to her, gazing out at the ocean.

But it wasn't him who caught her attention. Seated at the table, facing the door, was someone she didn't recognize.

Percy's breath hitched as she stepped further into the room, waiting for an introduction, waiting for the stranger to speak and reveal their purpose.

The stranger turned his head as Percy entered the room, and her breath caught in her throat. This person is a handsome man with a eyepatch on his right eye and long, silver hair that spikes on his head. There is a leaf-like pattern tattooed across his forehead, a spiked choker necklace lined, and a bead-like earring on his left ear with many smaller piercings. His attire is formal and extravagant, with a collar that spans all the way to his upper chest, and badges decorated on the left and right side of his coat. Finally, he wears long white jeans and a pair of shoes filled with square patterns.

"Good morning, Percilla," the stranger greeted her with a deep, resonant voice that sent a shiver down her spine. "I trust you slept well?"

Percy's eyes flicked from the man to Poseidon, who remained silent, still gazing out at the ocean. There was an odd tension in the air. She turned her attention back to the man seated at the table.

"Who are you?" she asked, her voice steady despite the growing unease in her chest.

The man smiled. "Forgive my rudeness. My name is Hades, ruler of the Underworld. And I am also Poseidon's older brother."

Chapter Text

(Present)

Sitting down, Percy tried to mask her surprise as she faced this world's version of Hades, so different from the one she knew.

Aside from appearances, where the Hades in her world has black hair and eyes, their auras are distinct. Her actual uncle exudes a dark and ominous presence, usually wearing dark robes to appear more sinister. This guy here is like the total opposite. This Hades looks more regal and dignified, like an aristocratic noble.

"Lord Hades," she began, her voice wavering slightly as she tried to regain her composure. "What brings you here?"

Hades' smile remained, though his expression softened as he studied her. "I came to see the ni—girl who has captivated my brother's attention so thoroughly. It is not often that Poseidon is so... possessive." His gaze flicked to Poseidon, who still had not turned around.

Was he about to say something else at first? Percy wondered, confused.

She swallowed, feeling the weight of both gods' presence. "I didn't ask to be kidnapped against my will," she said, her voice firm despite the fear gnawing at her insides.

Hades tilted his head slightly, his expression one of mild curiosity. "No, I suppose you didn't," he acknowledged, his tone surprisingly gentle. "But the whims of gods are often beyond mortal comprehension, and the tides of fate can be unpredictable," Hades continued, his voice smooth and calm, almost as if he were discussing the weather.

Percy narrowed her eyes, not entirely convinced by his calm demeanor. "That doesn't make it right," she countered. "Your brother has no right to keep me here. I bet you watched my life too, so I don't trust you. I just want to go home."

At this, Poseidon finally turned to face them, his expression unreadable. "Percilla that's enough," he began, his voice low but firm, "I already told you that this is your home. I don't want to hear any more complaints from you."

Something snapped inside her.

She abruptly got up from her chair and slammed her hands on the table.

Percy's sudden movement sent a shockwave through the room. The tension, already thick, became nearly palpable as her hands collided with the table, the sound echoing in the large chamber. Her eyes blazed with fury as she glared at Poseidon, her heart pounding in her chest.

"No," she hissed, her voice trembling with suppressed emotion. "This is not my home, and I don't belong here with you. You do not have the right to decide my life!"

Poseidon's eyes darkened dangerously, but Percy didn't back down. She refused to let him intimidate her, even if he was a god.

"How could you fall in love with me just by watching my life? That doesn't even make sense! We only met each other yesterday! And if you expect me to just accept this easily, then you are dead wrong! I don't want any relationship with you!" Percy shouted with the sheer force of her emotions. She could feel the weight of her words, the raw, unfiltered anger that had been simmering beneath the surface since she'd been dragged into this strange and twisted version of reality.

The sea god's expression shifted, a flash of something wild passed through his eyes. He took a step closer, but Hades stopped him.

Hades gently raised a hand, his regal demeanor exuding an air of calm authority that cut through the thick tension in the room. "Enough, both of you," he said, his voice steady and composed. There was no anger in his tone, only a quiet insistence that demanded attention.

Poseidon paused, his gaze still locked on Percy, but the intensity in his eyes lessened, though only slightly. Hades stepped between them, his presence acting as a buffer.

"This is not the time nor the place for such heated emotions," Hades continued, glancing between Percy and his brother. "Percilla is understandably upset, Poseidon, but forcing her to submit to your will won't achieve the peace you claim to desire."

Percy blinked, surprised at Hades' unexpected support, though she still didn't trust him. There was something about this Hades that was more complex, less overtly menacing than the one she knew, but no less dangerous.

"And you, Percilla," Hades said, turning to her, his tone softening just a fraction, "I understand that you feel trapped, but this situation is far more complicated than you may realize. Fighting against my brother in this manner will only cause you more pain."

She clenched her fists, her anger still simmering beneath the surface, but Hades' words carried a weight that made her hesitate. "So, what then?" Percy demanded, her voice strained. "What am I supposed to do? Just accept this? Accept that my life isn't my own anymore?"

Hades sighed, as if he were dealing with a difficult child. "No one is asking you to surrender your will, only to consider that your circumstances have changed, and with them, your choices."

Poseidon started to speak, but Hades held up a hand again, silencing him. "I believe breakfast is still waiting for us. There's no need to let it go to waste, especially when emotions are running high. Perhaps some sustenance will help clear our minds."

Percy stared at him, bewildered by the sudden shift in topic, but Hades seemed unperturbed by her confusion. Poseidon, too, looked taken aback, but after a moment, he nodded reluctantly.

"Very well," Poseidon agreed, his voice curt as he cast one last glance at Percy.

Hades turned his attention back to Percy "Sit, Percilla," he said gently. "A meal in peace is preferable to a battle on an empty stomach."

Percy hesitated but realized she didn't have much choice. She wasn't ready to face Poseidon's wrath again, and if Hades could keep the situation from escalating, then she might have a chance to think and plan her next move.

As Percy sat back down, the rich aroma of various dishes filled her senses, momentarily distracting her from the tension that had just gripped the room. The table was adorned with an array of traditional Greek and Mediterranean breakfast dishes, each more enticing than the last.

In front of her was a plate of tiropita, a golden, flaky pastry stuffed with warm, melted cheese, and beside it, a small serving of spanakopita, a similar pastry filled with spinach and feta. The vibrant green of the spinach contrasted beautifully with the crispy, buttery layers of phyllo dough.

A bowl of fresh Greek yogurt sat nearby, its surface drizzled with honey and sprinkled with a handful of crunchy walnuts. The creamy texture of the yogurt promised a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the honey and the earthiness of the nuts.

There was also a platter of assorted olives—black, green, and kalamata—glistening with olive oil and garnished with sprigs of fresh oregano. Their rich, briny flavor was complemented by a selection of cheeses, including slices of tangy feta and mild kasseri.

Slices of fresh tomatoes and cucumbers were artfully arranged on another plate, their colors vibrant and inviting. Next to them was a dish of dolmades, grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and pine nuts, each one meticulously rolled and bursting with flavor.

In the center of the table was a basket of freshly baked pita bread, still warm from the oven. The soft, pillowy bread was perfect for dipping into small bowls of hummus and tahini, or for scooping up bites of the various dishes spread before her.

Finally, there was a dish of loukoumades, golden, bite-sized doughnuts drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon, their sweet aroma making Percy's mouth water.

Hades observed her as she surveyed the feast, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "I hope you find something to your liking," he said, his tone more amiable now, as though the earlier tension had never occurred. "It is important to nourish both body and spirit, especially in trying times."

Poseidon remained silent, his expression unreadable as he picked up a piece of pita bread and dipped it into the hummus. Percy hesitated for a moment, then reached for a slice of spanakopita, the savory scent drawing her in.

As she took a bite, the flavors danced on her tongue, momentarily easing the turmoil in her mind. But as she ate, Percy couldn't help but think about her next move. She will not stay here forever.

Just as Percy began to relax a bit, the door to the dining chamber creaked open, and Proteus stepped in. He was carrying a covered dish with a flourish, his eyes unexpectedly gleaming with a hint of mischief.

"Lord Poseidon, Lord Hades," Proteus announced, his voice carrying a note of excitement, "I have the final dish ready to surprise the princess."

Poseidon looked up, his attention momentarily diverted from Percy. Hades raised an eyebrow, a touch of curiosity on his face as he regarded Proteus.

Proteus placed the covered dish on the table with a dramatic flourish, and then removed the lid with the same flourish. Underneath was a plate of waffles drizzled in syrup. But these were no ordinary waffles; they were a vibrant shade of blue, glistening as if dusted with a hint of magical shimmer. In the middle of the stack were whipped cream and a piece of butter.

"Blue waffles!" Percy exclaimed in excitement, her eyebrows shooting up in surprise. The dish was completely unexpected and out of place among the traditional Mediterranean fare.

"Yes," Proteus nodded happily, "Lord Poseidon had me make this specially for you, princess."

Poseidon observed Percy's reaction, but his expression remained guarded. "I thought you might appreciate a little something...familiar," he said, his voice carrying a faint trace of warmth.

Percy's eyes widened as she stared at the waffles. "You noticed that I like blue food?" she asked, incredulous.

"Of course I did. I know every detail about you," Poseidon responded calmly.

Though she should feel uncomfortable, Percy found herself reaching for the fork. She cut into the blue waffles, revealing their fluffy interior. As she took a bite, the taste was surprisingly delightful—sweet, with a hint of citrus, and perfectly complemented by the whipped cream and butter. The vibrant color, while unusual, didn't detract from the flavor.

Hades watched her with an approving nod. "It seems that Poseidon's gesture has met with your approval," he remarked in amusement.

Percy didn't respond, absorbed with the food.

Poseidon's gaze softened as he observed Percy enjoying the dish. "I hoped the dish is to your liking," he said quietly.

Percy hesitated, her guard slightly lowered by the unexpected kindness. "Thank you," she said, her voice still edged with suspicion but softer than before. "It's... nice."

Hades leaned back in his chair, his expression one of thoughtful satisfaction. "It is rare to see my brother make such an effort. You have left quite an impression on him."

Poseidon remained silent, his eyes fixed on Percy, though his usual stern demeanor seemed to have eased slightly. As Percy took another bite of the blue waffles, she could feel a complex blend of emotions swirling within her—anger, frustration, and a reluctant sense of gratitude.

"Though we may not always see eye to eye," Hades said, breaking the silence, "it is important to remember that the gods are not the only ones bound by fate. You, too, are a part of this intricate weave, and understanding your place within it might bring you some semblance of peace."

Percy nodded slowly, her mind racing with thoughts of escape and rebellion. But for now, she focused on the meal, using it as a temporary distraction from the tangled web of emotions and the precarious situation she found herself in.

Proteus, who had been observing the exchange with interest, approached the table once more, this time with a more subdued demeanor. "If there is anything more you require, Princess, please let me know."

Percy gave him a grateful smile, appreciating his effort to make her feel somewhat welcome despite her current predicament. "Thank you, Proteus," she replied softly.

When the meal drew to a close, Hades rose gracefully from his seat, the movement smooth and deliberate. His presence filled the room once more, commanding attention with an effortless authority.

"Thank you for your hospitality, Poseidon," Hades said with a courteous nod. His gaze lingered on Percy, and though his expression remained composed, there was a hint of something unreadable in his eyes. "It has been a pleasure to officially meet you, Percilla. I trust we will have the opportunity to speak further in more favorable circumstances."

Percy met his gaze, her own eyes steely but tinged with a flicker of uncertainty. "Sure," she replied, her voice steady despite the tumultuous thoughts swirling in her mind.

Poseidon, still seated, merely nodded in acknowledgment. The earlier warmth in his demeanor had receded, replaced by his usual inscrutable expression.

Hades inclined his head once more and then turned to leave, his movements as regal as his bearing.

Proteus stepped forward, clearing away the dishes with practiced efficiency. The room seemed to exhale a collective sigh of relief as the tension of the previous moments dissipated.

As the last of the plates were cleared away, Poseidon broke the silence. "Now that you are done eating, I will start showing you around my empire, Percilla. It is a good time for you to know the seas and my people."

Note: one more 'present' chapter, than back to reactions.

Chapter Text

(Present)

Percy followed Poseidon out of the grand dining chamber after he announced that he would show her his empire. As they stepped outside the palace, she was greeted by the sight of a magnificent carriage made of intricately carved coral and seashells, glistening in the underwater light. The carriage was drawn by a team of four Hippocampi, half-horse and half-fish creatures, their scales shimmering with iridescent colors.

Before they set off, Poseidon paused and glanced at Percy. "You need to change," he said, his tone matter-of-fact.

Percy thought he meant her clothes, but without waiting for her response, he waved his hand in a smooth, commanding gesture. Percy gasped as she felt a strange tingling sensation in her legs. She looked down in alarm, watching as her legs fused together, transforming into a sleek mermaid tail. The scales shimmered in shades of turquoise and emerald, perfectly matching the underwater realm.

"It's a precaution," Poseidon explained, his voice calm but firm. "You'll move more easily through the water, and no one will mistake you for a human."

He then gestured for Percy to step inside the carriage, his demeanor composed and regal, as if the argument over breakfast had never occurred. Percy hesitated for a moment, eyeing the carriage warily, but she climbed in. The interior of the carriage was surprisingly luxurious, with plush seats upholstered in soft seaweed and cushions filled with what felt like the fluffiest of kelp.

As they began their journey, the Hippocampi propelled the carriage forward with swift, graceful movements. The underwater landscape passed by in a blur of colors and shapes, the city around Poseidon's palace teeming with life. Schools of fish darted past them, their scales catching the light and creating a kaleidoscope of colors, while various sea creatures went about their business, seemingly unperturbed by the presence of their god and his guest.

Poseidon described various landmarks as they traveled, his voice calm and authoritative. "That is the Great Coral Reef," he said, indicating a sprawling formation of coral that stretched as far as the eye could see. "It is the heart of my kingdom, home to countless species that rely on its protection."

Percy looked out at the reef, unable to suppress a small gasp of awe at its' beauty. The coral structures were vibrant and intricate, forming a labyrinth of passageways that teemed with life. Schools of fish swam through the crevices, their bodies a blur of color, while larger creatures, like sea turtles and rays, glided gracefully above.

The carriage moved on, and soon they arrived at an underwater marketplace. It was a bustling hub of activity, filled with merpeople, sirens, and other sea creatures, each going about their business. Stalls made of polished shells and sea stones lined the streets, selling everything from exotic underwater plants to precious pearls and gemstones. It all look interesting to her.

As they passed through the market, Poseidon introduced Percy to some of his subjects. The merpeople bowed respectfully as they approached, their tails shimmering in the dim light. "She is your future empress, Percilla, who will one day rule by my side," Poseidon announced.

"I am not your anything!" Percy yelled, but Poseidon ignored her.

The merpeople looked at Percy with curiosity, their gazes lingering on her appearance. She could sense their fascination and awe. Then, unexpectedly to her, they bowed.

"My Empress..." they said respectfully.

"Oh no, no, no! Do not bow to me! I am just a nobody!" she exclaimed in a panic, waving her hands to stop them.

Poseidon gave a triumphant smile. Good, they accept her, he thought.

F*ck, Percy swore in her mind.

As they continued the tour, a group of sirens, perched on a rocky outcrop nearby, sang a hauntingly beautiful melody that echoed through the water. Their voices were enchanting, yet there was an edge to them that made Percy wary. Poseidon nodded to the sirens in acknowledgment, and they responded with graceful bows, their eyes never leaving Percy.

"The sirens serve as my messengers and protectors," Poseidon explained. "Their songs can soothe the fiercest of tempests or bring down ships that dare to challenge my domain."

Percy shivered, remembering the sirens from her own world. Though these sirens appeared more refined, there was an underlying danger to them, just like the ones she had known.

She kept quiet as Poseidon showed her more of his empire. There were underwater gardens filled with rare, bioluminescent plants that glowed with an ethereal light, vast caverns where precious resources were mined by sea dwarves, and ancient ruins that spoke of a time long past, now reclaimed by the ocean.

The people they encountered along the way all reacted similarly to Percy—curious, respectful, and awed. Poseidon kept calling her his Empress, and they bowed to her. She again tried to stop them, but they only listened to their ruler. She felt so uncomfortable with their actions.

As the tour progressed, Percy's mind was only half-focused on the sights and the introductions. She was scanning the surroundings, searching for any potential opportunity for another escape.

Finally, the carriage reached a more secluded part of the kingdom, a series of towering sea stacks that jutted out from the ocean floor, their surfaces covered in vibrant coral and seaweed. Poseidon's attention was momentarily diverted as he explained the significance of this area, describing it as a favorite place for him to be alone with his thoughts and meditate.

Percy suddenly realized this might be a chance for her to escape. She subtly glanced around, noting the absence of other creatures nearby. The Hippocampi were busy eating kelp that had drifted by, and Poseidon was distracted.

After making sure Poseidon was not looking, she quickly bolted.

Percy's heart pounded in her chest as she swam furiously upward, her limbs cutting through the water with desperate speed. She didn't dare look back, knowing that every second counted.

She was determined to be free.

The water around her grew lighter as she ascended, the surface a distant, shimmering veil that beckoned her with the promise of air and freedom. Percy's lungs burned as she pushed herself harder, her strokes frantic and uneven. The thought of escaping Poseidon's grip was the only thing that kept her going.

Just a little more. She could see the ripples above, feel the pull of the surface drawing her closer. Her fingers stretched out, eager to break through and taste the sweet air—

Suddenly, a powerful force yanked her backward, stopping her just inches from the surface. Percy gasped as she was dragged down, spinning wildly until she came face-to-face with Poseidon. His eyes blazed with fury, his normally calm and regal demeanor replaced by a stormy, almost feral anger.

"Did you truly think you could attempt to escape me again?" Poseidon's voice was a deep, dangerous rumble, reverberating through the water and into her bones.

Percy struggled against his grip, her hands pushing against his chest, but it was like trying to move a mountain. He held her effortlessly, his expression darkening with every futile attempt she made to free herself.

"I won't be your prisoner!" Percy spat, glaring at him with defiance even as fear tightened her throat.

"You're not a prisoner," Poseidon growled, his grip tightening around her wrist. "You will become my Empress, and you will learn to accept it."

"I don't want to be Empress, and I don't want you!" she shot back, her voice trembling with anger and fear. "Let me go right now!"

Poseidon sighed, but then his expression hardened. "Once again, I have to remind you that you belong by my side. You will not leave me. Not now, and not ever."

Percy's expression became furious.

"That's it! I've had it with you, Poseidon! You do not have the right to control me and decide my fate!" she screamed at him.

"I DO NOT BELONG TO YOU!"

Without caring for the consequences, Percy twisted in his grasp, her tail thrashing in the water. Poseidon's eyes widened slightly, clearly not expecting her to resist so fiercely. She used the moment of surprise to her advantage, pulling back with all her strength and managing to wrench her arm free from his grip.

Poseidon's shock was palpable, his expression flickering between anger and disbelief. He reached out to grab her again, but Percy was faster. With a quick motion, she swung her arm and punched him square in the face.

The impact sent a shockwave through the water, and Poseidon reeled back, stunned. Percy could see the brief flicker of astonishment in his eyes before it was replaced with a deep, seething rage.

For a moment, the world seemed to hold its breath. The sea around them stilled as if even the ocean itself was in shock at what she had done.

Next chapter back to reactions.

Chapter Text

"Something will happen to that camp. That's why she said she will only get to enjoy it briefly," said Artemis.

Artemis's words hung in the air, causing a ripple of unease among the gathered gods. They exchanged glances, each lost in their own thoughts about what might befall the camp.

The next title appeared on the screen:

We Capture A Flag

"I am quite curious what this is about. Why would she capture a flag?," Asked Ares in interest, thinking the girl is going to war.

Loki rolled his eyes."It's a human game Ares. They capture flags as part of a competition, not literally." He explained, being more knowledgeable about human activities since he actually visits Midgard often.

The next few days I settled into a routine that felt almost normal, if you don't count the fact that I was getting lessons from satyrs, nymphs, and a centaur.

Each morning I took Ancient Greek from Anthony, and we talked about the gods and goddesses in the present tense, which was kind of weird. I discovered Anthony was right about my dyslexia: Ancient Greek wasn't that hard for me to read. At least, no harder than English. After a couple of mornings, I could stumble through a few lines of Homer without too much headache.

"I'd like to see her try to learn other languages, like Chinese," said Sun Wukong, a Chinese god known as the Monkey King.

"And Japanese," added Benzaiten, the Shinto goddess of fortune.

"Don't forget Hindi," Rudra exclaimed, the Hindu god of Storms. Shiva and other Hindu gods nodded.

The rest of the day, I'd rotate through outdoor activities, looking for something I was good at. Chiron tried to teach me archery, but we found out pretty quick I wasn't any good with a bow and arrow. He didn't complain, even when he had to desnag a stray arrow out of his tail.

"I can teach her archery," Apollo piped up, which earned him a glare from Poseidon.

"Do not go near her or touch her," Poseidon said menacingly.

The Sun god gulped but hurriedly nodded.

Foot racing? No good either. The wood-nymph instructors left me in the dust. They told me not to worry about it. They'd had centuries of practice running away from lovesick gods.

Everyone side-eyed Apollo, as well as the Greek god Alpheus, the river god.

"What?" Apollo looked surprised at the stares. "It was only one time! Not like father, who chased, like a kajillion of them!"

Zeus gasped at the audacity of his son.

"I'll have you know, my son," Zeus thundered, his voice echoing through the council, "that it was like six! I never pursued anyone who didn't eventually come to appreciate my...charms." He straightened, lightning crackling faintly around his form as if to emphasize his point.

Hera seethed on her throne, while the other Olympians shook their heads or rolled their eyes.

"Idiot," Poseidon muttered.

"Zeus, you dumbass!" Exclaimed Adamas, exasperated.

But still, it was a little humiliating to be slower than a tree.

And wrestling? Forget it. Every time I got on the mat, Clarisse would pulverize me.

Ares let out a suffering groan, earning a pat on his shoulder from Aphrodite.

Poseidon's eyes look like its shooting lasers towards the Ares girl.

"There's more where that came from, punk," she'd mumble in my ear.

The only thing I really excelled at was canoeing, and that wasn't the kind of heroic skill people expected to see from the kid who had beaten the Minotaur.

I knew the senior campers and counselors were watching me, trying to decide who my dad was, but they weren't having an easy time of it. I wasn't as strong as the Ares kids, or as good at archery as the Apollo kids. I didn't have Hephaestus's skill with metalwork or—gods forbid— Dionysus's way with vine plants.

"What's wrong with vine plants?!" Dionysus asked, offended.

"You want to claim her as your child or something?" Buddha asked the wine god casually, raising a brow.

Dionysus immediately froze and glanced at Poseidon, who seems to not hear them.

"No..."

Luke told me I might be a child of Hermes, a kind of jack-of-all-trades, master of none. But I got the feeling he was just trying to make me feel better. He really didn't know what to make of me either.

"I'd be surprise if she were my daughter,"commented Hermes. "She doesn't seem like someone who likes stealing."

Despite all that, I liked camp. I got used to the morning fog over the beach, the smell of hot strawberry fields in the afternoon, even the weird noises of monsters in the woods at night. I would eat dinner with cabin eleven, scrape part of my meal into the fire, and try to feel some connection to my real dad. Nothing came. Just that warm feeling I'd always had, like the memory of his smile. I tried not to think too much about my mom, but I kept wondering: if gods and monsters were real, if all this magical stuff was possible, surely there was some way to save her, to bring her back....

Again, there are pitying looks towards the girl on the screen. Poseidon, Loki, and Beelzebub just don't care about her mother.

I started to understand Luke's bitterness and how he seemed to resent his father, Hermes.

The god of travelers flinched, even though it was not directed towards him.

So okay, maybe gods had important things to do. But couldn't they call once in a while, or thunder, or something? Dionysus could make Diet Coke appear out of thin air. Why couldn't my dad, whoever he was, make a phone appear?

The gods frowned.

"Are our counterparts that neglectful of their children?" Said Demeter in disbelief.

"If that is so, I am sorely disappointed," said Hephaestus, shaking his head.

"Sounds like the gods in that universe really suck a*s," added Indra.

"Since their children are our children too, we'll treat them much better," Hades declared.

Thursday afternoon, three days after I'd arrived at CampHalf-Blood, I had my first sword-fighting lesson. Everybody from cabin eleven gathered in the big circular arena, where Luke would be our instructor.

The war or battle crazy gods like Zeus, Ares, and Thor look interested at this scene.

We started with basic stabbing and slashing, using some straw-stuffed dummies in Greek armor. I guess I did okay. At least, I understood what I was supposed to do and my reflexes were good.

The problem was, I couldn't find a blade that felt right in my hands. Either they were too heavy, or too light, or too long. Luke tried his best to fix me up, but he agreed that none of the practice blades seemed to work for me.

We moved on to dueling in pairs. Luke announced he would be my partner, since this was my first time.

"Good luck," one of the campers told me. "Luke's the best swordsman in the last three hundred years."

Hermes, having accepted Luke as his, smiled at the praise towards his son.

"Maybe he'll go easy on me," I said.

The camper snorted.

"Did they forget that she's new?" Hestia asked with a expression of disapproval.

Luke showed me thrusts and parries and shield blocks the hard way. With every swipe, I got a little more battered and bruised. "Keep your guard up, Percy," he'd say, then whap me in the ribs with the flat of his blade. "No, not that far up!" Whap! "Lunge!" Whap! "Now, back!" Whap!

"He's being too hard on her!" Hestia exclaimed.

"I don't think he is. Isn't there a human saying called 'no pain, no gain'?" Said Shiva lazily.

"But look at the bruises on her poor beautiful skin!" Moaned Aphrodite.

Seeing the amount of bruises on the girl's skin, Poseidon felt the urge to kill the boy.

By the time he called a break, I was soaked in sweat. Everybody swarmed the drinks cooler. Luke poured ice water on his head, which looked like such a good idea, I did the same.

Instantly, I felt better. Strength surged back into my arms. The sword didn't feel so awkward.

"It seems the water gave her energy," Hades observed.

"Okay, everybody circle up!" Luke ordered. "If Percy doesn't mind, I want to give you a little demo."

Great, I thought. Let's all watch Percy get pounded.

The Hermes guys gathered around. They were suppressing smiles. I figured they'd been in my shoes before and couldn't wait to see how Luke used me for a punching bag. He told everybody he was going to demonstrate a disarming technique: how to twist the enemy's blade with the flat of your own sword so that he had no choice but to drop his weapon.

"Let's see how this goes," said Ares, crossing his bulky arms.

"This is difficult," he stressed. "I've had it used against me. No laughing at Percy, now. Most swordsmen have to work years to master this technique."

He demonstrated the move on me in slow motion. Sure enough, the sword clattered out of my hand.

"What an excellent move," complimented Hercules.

Thor nodded in approval. "The boy did it well," he remarked.

"Now in real time," he said, after I'd retrieved my weapon. "We keep sparring until one of us pulls it off. Ready, Percy?"

I nodded, and Luke came after me. Somehow, I kept him from getting a shot at the hilt of my sword. My senses opened up. I saw his attacks coming. I countered. I stepped forward and tried a thrust of my own. Luke deflected it easily, but I saw a change in his face. His eyes narrowed, and he started to press me with more force.

The entire council became still as every deity focused on the screen.

"Go, Percy, go!" Anubis and Loki cheered.

The sword grew heavy in my hand. The balance wasn't right. I knew it was only a matter of seconds before Luke took me down, so I figured, What the heck?

I tried the disarming maneuver.

My blade hit the base of Luke's and I twisted, putting my whole weight into a downward thrust.

The gods held their breath.

Clang.

Luke's sword rattled against the stones. The tip of my blade was an inch from his undefended chest.

The other campers were silent.

The gods were silent, too, but their expressions showed their shock.

I lowered my sword. "Um, sorry."

For a moment, Luke was too stunned to speak.

Every deity in the Council of Valhalla was in the same boat as the son of Hermes.

"My Gods, did you all see that?!" Shiva exclaimed.

The gods exchanged looks of astonishment as the silence stretched on. The Council of Valhalla was rarely at a loss for words, but Percy's unexpected display of skill had left even the most battle-hardened deities momentarily speechless.

"She's untrained and yet...," Hades began, his mind replaying the scene in his head, "she managed to perform a highly advanced maneuver against an experienced swordsman."

Hercules grinned broadly, his blue eyes sparkling with admiration. "That girl has spirit! To face someone that's a seasoned fighter like the son of Hermes, and pull off something so difficult—it's quite impressive!"

Zeus stroked his beard thoughtfully, the wheels turning in his head. "There must be something more to this girl than meets the eye. That was no ordinary feat."

"Indeed," Thor spoke up, his eyes gleaming with interest. "The girl is a natural with a sword."

Loki chuckled, a gleam of mischief in his eye. "That girl is certainly going to keep us entertained. I'd bet good coin on her if she ever took up real combat."

Artemis, nodded slightly. "There's power in her that hasn't fully awakened yet. But when it does...I believe she will be formidable."

Ares, who had been watching with a critical eye, spoke next. "She's got guts. If she were trained properly, she could be a force to reckon with."

Hermes proud of his Luke's skills, but the uneasy feeling about his son from another universe never left. Seeing Percy's unexpected success sparked a sense of curiosity in him towards her.

"I just can't believe it!" Shiva exclaimed again, still reeling from what he had witnessed. "She did that with no formal training? This girl is something else!"

"What do you think of her skills, brother?" Zeus asked Poseidon, but the sea god didn't respond.

Poseidon, while remaining quiet, looked impressed at the girl's feat. A conflicting feeling stirred inside him. One thought ran through his mind:

Would it really be so bad to accept the girl as his daughter?

"Sorry?" His scarred face broke into a grin. "By the gods, Percy, why are you sorry? Show me that again!"

"Yeah, show it again!" Cried out Huginn and Muninn, flapping and jumping on Odin's shoulders. The leader of the Norse pantheon didn't seem to mind.

I didn't want to. The short burst of manic energy had completely abandoned me. But Luke insisted.

This time, there was no contest. The moment our swords connected, Luke hit my hilt and sent my weapon skidding across the floor.

After a long pause, somebody in the audience said, "Beginner's luck?"

Ares scoffed. "There's no beginner's luck. She just needs a better sword."

Luke wiped the sweat off his brow. He appraised at me with an entirely new interest. "Maybe," he said. "But I wonder what Percy could do with a balanced sword... ."

Friday afternoon, I was sitting with Grover at the lake, resting from a near-death experience on the climbing wall. Grover had scampered to the top like a mountain goat, but the lava had almost gotten me. My shirt had smoking holes in it. The hairs had been singed off my forearms.

Poseidon narrowed his eyes in anger at the scene.

"That is quite dangerous for a child," said Hades in disapproval.

Hera, Leto, and Hestia agreed.

We sat on the pier, watching the naiads do underwater basket-weaving, until I got up the nerve to ask Grover how his conversation had gone with Mr. D.

His face turned a sickly shade of yellow.

"Fine," he said. "Just great."

"So your career's still on track?"

He glanced at me nervously. "Chiron t-told you I want a searcher's license?"

"A searcher's license?" Said Susano'o curiously.

"Well... no." I had no idea what a searcher's license was, but it didn't seem like the right time to ask. "He just said you had big plans, you know ... and that you needed credit for completing a keeper's assignment. So did you get it?"

Grover looked down at the naiads. "Mr. D suspended judgment. He said I hadn't failed or succeeded with you yet, so our fates were still tied together. If you got a quest and I went along to protect you, and we both came back alive, then maybe he'd consider the job complete."

"In my opinion, the satyr failed her," said Apollo in contempt, which the other gods agreed.

"I don't like the idea of a young child going on a dangerous quest," Hestia interjected, her tone firm. "A child, untrained and uncertain of her lineage, should not be sent on a perilous quest. It's irresponsible."

Athena nodded in agreement. "It's not just dangerous; it's foolish. Even if she does have potential, she's not ready."

A murmur of agreement rippled through the council, with only a few dissenting voices.

"But what if the quest is what she needs to unlock her true potential?" Ares challenged. "Sometimes, a trial by fire is the only way to bring out a warrior's strength."

"Trial by fire or not, there's a difference between a challenge and a death sentence," Leto countered, her maternal instincts flaring. "The girl doesn't even know who her father is. How can she be expected to face the dangers of a quest?"

My spirits lifted. "Well, that's not so bad, right?"

"Blaa-ha-ha! He might as well have transferred me to stable-cleaning duty. The chances of you getting a quest... and even if you did, why would you want me along?"

"Yeah, why would she want the satyr along?" Loki said disdainfully.

"Of course I'd want you along!"

"She is too nice," commented Buddha.

Poseidon scowled, thinking that her excessive kindness would get her taken advantage of.

Grover stared glumly into the water. "Basket-weaving ... Must be nice to have a useful skill."

I tried to reassure him that he had lots of talents, but that just made him look more miserable. We talked about canoeing and swordplay for a while, then debated the pros and cons of the different gods. Finally, I asked him about the four empty cabins.

At that moment, it was as if every god suddenly perked up.

"Okay, we finally get to hear something very interesting," said Zeus.

"Number eight, the silver one, belongs to Artemis," he said. "She vowed to be a maiden forever. So of course, no kids. The cabin is, you know, honorary. If she didn't have one, she'd be mad."

Artemis nodded in approval.

"Yeah, okay. But the other three, the ones at the end. Are those the Big Three?"

"Big Three?" Questioned the gods.

Adamas suddenly has a troubled feeling.

Grover tensed. We were getting close to a touchy subject. "No. One of them, number two, is Hera's," he said. "That's another honorary thing. She's the goddess of marriage, so of course she wouldn't go around having affairs with mortals. That's her husband's job.

"Of course I wouldn't soil myself with mortals or any other being. Not like this pathetic husk next to me," said Hera, glaring at Zeus.

The leader of the Greek gods shivered in fear. He suddenly remembered a saying mortals would use: Happy wife, happy life.

"I'm sorry, my dear!" Zeus apologized, trembling.

"You already apologized over a million times, and you still do it!"

The other olympians gave tired sighs.

When we say the Big Three, we mean the three powerful brothers, the sons of Kronos."

"Zeus, Poseidon, Hades."

"WHAT?!" The olympian gods erupted in astonishment.

"Does our deceased brother not have a counterpart in that universe?" Demeter asked, her voice tinged with concern.

Zeus, Hades, and Poseidon, the only ones who knew Adamas was alive, glanced at the spot where the god of conquest was hidden among the spectators.

Adamas, on the other hand, didn't know what to feel about the fact that there was no alternate version of himself in that universe.

"Right. You know. After the great battle with the Titans, they took over the world from their dad and drew lots to decide who got what."

"Zeus got the sky," I remembered. "Poseidon the sea, Hades the Underworld."

"They drew lots?" Said Hades in confusion. "Is it not their predestined right to receive their domains by birthright?"

"I guess so, brother," said Zeus.

Our counterparts are pathetic, Poseidon thought scornfully.

"Uh-huh."

"But Hades doesn't have a cabin here."

All the deities were shocked.

Hades frowned, wondering how odd that was. Did his counterpart not have a good relationship with his family?

The other Greek gods became enraged.

"How could their Hades not have a cabin!" Yelled Hera angrily. "It's like disrespecting our brother!"

Every gods' opinion of the deities in that universe worsened, especially Poseidon's.

"No. He doesn't have a throne on Olympus, either. He sort of does his own thing down in the Underworld. If he did have a cabin here ..." Grover shuddered. "Well, it wouldn't be pleasant. Let's leave it at that."

The olympians glared at the satyr.

That incompetent insect needs to die, thought Poseidon darkly.

"But Zeus and Poseidon—they both had, like, a bazillion kids in the myths. Why are their cabins empty?"

Like a sound of a record player abruptly stopping, the gods froze.

"What did that damn satyr just say?" Said Poseidon menacingly.

"Zeus I can believe, but..." Shiva trailed off hesitantly, glancing at the seething god of the sea.

"Poseidon, calm down," Hades urged his brother.

But the blonde god cannot keep calm. The idea that his counterpart would sire so many children utterly disgusted him.

"I have only maybe a few thousand kids, not a bazillion. That's overkill even for me," Zeus added unhelpfully.

Hera wants to strangle her husband.

Grover shifted his hooves uncomfortably. "About sixty years ago, after World War II, the Big Three agreed they wouldn't sire any more heroes. Their children were just too powerful. They were affecting the course of human events too much, causing too much carnage. World War II, you know, that was basically a fight between the sons of Zeus and Poseidon on one side, and the sons of Hades on the other. The winning side, Zeus and Poseidon, made Hades swear an oath with them: no more affairs with mortal women. They all swore on the River Styx."

"That is a very serious oath," stated Zeus, frowning. "Breaking it will have dire consequences."

"But is the oath in that universe similar to ours?" Asked Dionysus.

Thunder boomed.

I said, "That's the most serious oath you can make."

Grover nodded.

"And the brothers kept their word—no kids?"

Grover's face darkened. "Seventeen years ago, Zeus fell off the wagon. There was this TV starlet with a big fluffy eighties hairdo—he just couldn't help himself. When their child was born, a little girl named Thalia .. . well, the River Styx is serious about promises. Zeus himself got off easy because he's immortal, but he brought a terrible fate on his daughter."

"What?! No way! The demigods have to deal with the consequences instead of their divine parents?!"  Said Zeus in disbelief.

"That's awful!" Exclaimed Hestia in concern. "A child shouldn't be punished for the mistakes of their parents!"

All the deities's opinions of the gods that universe declined even further. Now they felt they had the right to look down at those so-called gods.

"But that isn't fair.' It wasn't the little girl's fault."

Grover hesitated. "Percy, children of the Big Three have powers greater than other half-bloods. They have a strong aura, a scent that attracts monsters. When Hades found out about the girl, he wasn't too happy about Zeus breaking his oath. Hades let the worst monsters out of Tartarus to torment Thalia. A satyr was assigned to be her keeper when she was  fourteen , but there was nothing he could do. He tried to escort her here with a couple of other half-bloods she'd befriended. They almost made it. They got all the way to the top of that hill."

The gods' reaction to Grover's explanation was one of horror and disbelief.

"Monsters from Tartarus?" Artemis's voice was laced with concern. "That's beyond cruel."

Hades clenched his fists, his expression darkening. "So my counterpart allowed such horrors to befall the girl Thalia because of Zeus's lapse?"

"The lack of responsibility and compassion is appalling." Leto remarked, shaking her head.

Thor's expression was somber. "A child caught in such turmoil because of a broken oath and the neglect of her own kin. It is indeed troubling."

He pointed across the valley, to the pine tree where I'd fought the minotaur. "All three Kindly Ones were after them, along with a horde of hellhounds. They were about to be overrun when Thalia told her satyr to take the other two half-bloods to safety while she held off the monsters. She was wounded and tired, and she didn't want to live like a hunted animal. The satyr didn't want to leave her, but he couldn't change her mind, and he had to protect the others. So Thalia made her final stand alone, at the top of that hill. As she died, Zeus took pity on her. He turned her into that pine tree. Her spirit still helps protect the borders of the valley. That's why the hill is called Half-Blood Hill."

Seeing the scene of Thalia, the goddesses teared up.

Göll covered her mouth in shock, her eyes welling up with tears.

"Such a selfless sacrifice," Brunhilde spoke suddenly. "To give up her life to protect others, and to be transformed into a guardian."

Hestia's face was stricken with sadness. "It's heartbreaking to think of a child bearing such a burden and facing such a fate because of the failings of the gods."

I stared at the pine in the distance.

The story made me feel hollow, and guilty too. A girl my age had sacrificed herself to save her friends. She had faced a whole army of monsters. Next to that, my victory over the Minotaur didn't seem like much. I wondered, if I'd acted differently, could I have saved my mother?

"Didn't seem like much? For a mortal, she accomplished something extraordinary," said Susano'o.

"She shouldn't look down on herself. The situation was out of her control," stated Hades.

Poseidon nodded in agreement. The girl shouldn't bear the weight of guilt for circumstances beyond her power; her courage was more than enough.

"Grover," I said, "have heroes really gone on quests to the Underworld?"

"Sometimes," he said. "Orpheus. Hercules. Houdini."

Hercules perked up at the mention of his name. He wondered what his alternate self is like.

"And have they ever returned somebody from the dead?"

"No. Never. Orpheus came close... . Percy, you're not seriously thinking—"

"No," I lied. "I was just wondering. So ... a satyr is always assigned to guard a demigod?"

"She needs to work on her lying," Apollo stated.

Grover studied me warily. I hadn't persuaded him that I'd really dropped the Underworld idea. "Not always. We go undercover to a lot of schools. We try to sniff out the half-bloods who have the makings of great heroes. If we find one with a very strong aura, like a child of the Big Three, we alert Chiron. He tries to keep an eye on them, since they could cause really huge problems."

"And you found me. Chiron said you thought I might be something special."

Grover looked as if I'd just led him into a trap. "I didn't... Oh, listen, don't think like that. If you were—you know—you'd never ever be allowed a quest, and I'd never get my license. You're probably a child of Hermes. Or maybe even one of the minor gods, like Nemesis, the god of revenge. Don't worry, okay?"

"She cannot be my child," said Hermes in a matter-of-fact tone.

Nemesis, the Greek goddess of revenge, looked startled at the mention of her name.

I got the idea he was reassuring himself more than me.

That night after dinner, there was a lot more excitement than usual.

At last, it was time for capture the flag.

"Finally, some action!" Yelled Morrígan. The other war gods/goddesses voiced their excitement as well.

When the plates were cleared away, the conch horn sounded and we all stood at our tables.

Campers yelled and cheered as Anthony and two of his siblings ran into the pavilion carrying a silk banner. It was about ten feet long, glistening gray, with a painting of a barn owl above an olive tree. From the opposite side of the pavilion, Clarisse and her buddies ran in with another banner, of identical size, but gaudy red, painted with a bloody spear and a boar's head.

Poseidon narrowed his eyes at the sight of those two halflings.

I turned to Luke and yelled over the noise, "Those are the flags?"

"Yeah."

"Ares and Athena always lead the teams?"

"Not always," he said. "But often."

"So, if another cabin captures one, what do you do— repaint the flag?"

He grinned. "You'll see. First we have to get one."

"Whose side are we on?"

He gave me a sly look, as if he knew something I didn't. The scar on his face made him look almost evil in the torchlight.

Hermes shifted uncomfortably.

"I feel like there's a hint in that statement," remarked Dionysus.

"We've made a temporary alliance with Athena. Tonight, we get the flag from Ares. And you are going to help."

The teams were announced. Athena had made an alliance with Apollo and Hermes, the two biggest cabins. Apparently, privileges had been traded—shower times, chore schedules, the best slots for activities—in order to win support.

Ares had allied themselves with everybody else: Dionysus, Demeter, Aphrodite, and Hephaestus. From what I'd seen, Dionysus's kids were actually good athletes, but there were only two of them. Demeter's kids had the edge with nature skills and outdoor stuff but they weren't very aggressive.

"Um...I can be aggressive," Demeter muttered.

Aphrodite's sons and daughters I wasn't too worried about. They mostly sat out every activity and checked their reflections in the lake and did their hair and gossiped.

Aphrodite raised an eyebrow at this. Her children needed to exercise, lest they become fat and ugly.

Hephaestus's kids weren't pretty, and there were only four of them, but they were big and burly from working in the metal shop all day. They might be a problem.

Hephaestus flinched, being reminded of his looks.

That, of course, left Ares's cabin: a dozen of the biggest, ugliest, meanest kids on Long Island, or anywhere else on the planet.

Ares can feel a headache coming on, even though gods don't get headaches.

Chiron hammered his hoof on the marble.

"Heroes!" he announced. "You know the rules. The creek is the boundary line. The entire forest is fair game. All magic items are allowed. The banner must be prominently displayed, and have no more than two guards. Prisoners may be disarmed, but may not be bound or gagged. No killing or maiming is allowed. I will serve as referee and battlefield medic. Arm yourselves!"

He spread his hands, and the tables were suddenly covered with equipment: helmets, bronze swords, spears, oxhide shields coated in metal.

"Whoa," I said. "We're really supposed to use these?"

Luke looked at me as if I were crazy. "Unless you want to get skewered by your friends in cabin five. Here—Chiron thought these would fit. You'll be on border patrol."

"Border patrol?" The gods echoed.

"Wonder what she would do," said Shiva.

My shield was the size of an NBA backboard, with a big caduceus in the middle. It weighed about a million pounds. I could have snowboarded on it fine, but I hoped nobody seriously expected me to run fast. My helmet, like all the helmets on Athena's side, had a blue horsehair plume on top. Ares and their allies had red plumes.

Anthony yelled, "Blue team, forward!"

We cheered and shook our swords and followed him down the path to the south woods. The red team yelled taunts at us as they headed off toward the north.

I managed to catch up with Anthony without tripping over my equipment. "Hey."

He kept marching.

Poseidon gritted his teeth in anger.

Athena shook her head in disapproval at her son's behavior.

"So what's the plan?" I asked. "Got any magic items you can loan me?"

His hand drifted toward his pocket, as if he were afraid I'd stolen something.

"Just watch Clarisse's spear," he said. "You don't want that thing touching you. Otherwise, don't worry. We'll take the banner from Ares. Has Luke given you your job?"

"Border patrol, whatever that means."

"It's easy. Stand by the creek, keep the reds away. Leave the rest to me. Athena always has a plan."

"She is going to be bait!" Loki laughed until Poseidon glared at him, making him instantly shut up.

How dare those mongrels leave her to defend herself! The sea god thought angrily.

Hades sighed. "They are treating her like a pawn."

He pushed ahead, leaving me in the dust.

"Okay," I mumbled. "Glad you wanted me on your team."

It was a warm, sticky night. The woods were dark, with fireflies popping in and out of view. Anthony stationed me next to a little creek that gurgled over some rocks, then he and the rest of the team scattered into the trees.

Standing there alone, with my big blue-feathered helmet and my huge shield, I felt like an idiot. The bronze sword, like all the swords I'd tried so far, seemed balanced wrong. The leather grip pulled on my hand like a bowling ball.

There was no way anybody would actually attack me, would they? I mean, Olympus had to have liability issues, right?

"I have a feeling they don't," said Hermes.

Far away, the conch horn blew. I heard whoops and yells in the woods, the clanking of metal, kids fighting. A blue-plumed ally from Apollo raced past me like a deer, leaped through the creek, and disappeared into enemy territory.

Great, I thought. I'll miss all the fun, as usual.

Then I heard a sound that sent a chill up my spine, a low canine growl, somewhere close by.

The gods heard it too.

"What the hell is that sound?" Asked Cú Chulainn.

I raised my shield instinctively; I had the feeling something was stalking me.

Every deity became worried for Percy, especially Poseidon.

Then the growling stopped. I felt the presence retreating.

On the other side of the creek, the underbrush exploded. Five Ares warriors came yelling and screaming out of the dark.

"Cream the punk!" Clarisse screamed.

"Oh no," muttered Artemis.

Her ugly pig eyes glared through the slits of her helmet. She brandished a five-foot-long spear, its barbed metal tip flickering with red light. Her siblings had only the standard-issue bronze swords—not that that made me feel any better.

They charged across the stream. There was no help in sight. I could run. Or I could defend myself against half the Ares cabin.

I managed to sidestep the first kid's swing, but these guys were not as stupid the Minotaur. They surrounded me, and Clarisse thrust at me with her spear. My shield deflected the point, but I felt a painful tingling all over my body. My hair stood on end. My shield arm went numb, and the air burned.

Electricity. Her stupid spear was electric. I fell back.

Poseidon abruptly stood up from his throne.

"I will kill that halfbreed!" He roared, startling everyone in the room.

Ares began to tremble in fear.

"Poseidon, cool yourself!" Hades commanded.

His brother grunted but sat back down.

Another Ares guy slammed me in the chest with the butt of his sword and I hit the dirt.

They could've kicked me into jelly, but they were too busy laughing.

"Give her a haircut," Clarisse said. "Grab her hair."

"No, not the hair!" Yelled Aphrodite in horror.

I managed to get to my feet. I raised my sword, but Clarisse slammed it aside with her spear as sparks flew. Now both my arms felt numb.

"Your kids really fight dirty Ares. They are so unlike you," commented Apollo.

Ares groaned and rubbed his face.

"Oh, wow," Clarisse said. "I'm scared of this girl. Really scared."

"The flag is that way," I told her. I wanted to sound angry, but I was afraid it didn't come out that way.

"Yeah," one of her siblings said. "But see, we don't care about the flag. We care about a girl who made our cabin look stupid."

"They do that themselves," stated Buddha.

"You do that without my help," I told them. It probably wasn't the smartest thing to say.

Some gods chuckled.

Two of them came at me. I backed up toward the creek, tried to raise my shield, but Clarisse was too fast. Her spear stuck me straight in the ribs. If I hadn't been wearing an armored breastplate, I would've been shish-ke-babbed. As it was, the electric point just about shocked my teeth out of my mouth. One of her cabinmates slashed his sword across my arm, leaving a good-size cut.

Poseidon does not care those demigods are just children. He would shish-ke-babbed them with his own trident.

Seeing my own blood made me dizzy—warm and cold at the same time.

"No maiming," I managed to say.

"Oops," the guy said. "Guess I lost my dessert privilege.

Odin frowned in disapproval. "That's a very light punishment."

He pushed me into the creek and I landed with a splash. They all laughed. I figured as soon as they were through being amused, I would die. But then something happened. The water seemed to wake up my senses, as if I'd just had a bag of my mom's double-espresso jelly beans.

"Oooh, is she finally going to use her powers?" Said Zeus excitedly. "I hope she drowns them!"

"Those are my kids, dad!" Ares cried out in horror.

"Oh...oh yeah..."

Clarisse and her cabinmates came into the creek to get me, but I stood to meet them. I knew what to do. I swung the flat of my sword against the first guy's head and knocked his helmet clean off. I hit him so hard I could see his eyes vibrating as he crumpled into the water.

Ugly Number Two and Ugly Number Three came at me. I slammed one in the face with my shield and used my sword to shear off the other guy's horsehair plume. Both of them backed up quick. Ugly Number Four didn't look really anxious to attack, but Clarisse kept coming, the point of her spear crackling with energy. As soon as she thrust, I caught the shaft between the edge of my shield and my sword, and I snapped it like a twig.

Everyone looked impressed by her skills.

"It seems not only does the water give her energy, it also helped sharpen her focus," Hades remarked, looking amazed.

"Ah!" she screamed. "You idiot! You corpse-breath worm!"

Loki scoffed. "You called that an insult?"

She probably would've said worse, but I smacked her between the eyes with my sword-butt and sent her stumbling backward out of the creek.

Then I heard yelling, elated screams, and I saw Luke racing toward the boundary line with the red team's banner lifted high. He was flanked by a couple of Hermes guys covering his retreat, and a few Apollos behind them, fighting off the Hephaestus kids. The Ares folks got up, and Clarisse muttered a dazed curse.

"A trick!" she shouted. "It was a trick."

"No you little b*tch, you just got your a*s beat!" Insulted Indra.

They staggered after Luke, but it was too late. Everybody converged on the creek as Luke ran across into friendly territory. Our side exploded into cheers. The red banner shimmered and turned to silver. The boar and spear were replaced with a huge caduceus, the symbol of cabin eleven. Everybody on the blue team picked up Luke and started carrying him around on their shoulders. Chiron cantered out from the woods and blew the conch horn.

The game was over. We'd won.

I was about to join the celebration when Anthony's voice, right next to me in the creek, said, "Not bad, hero."

I looked, but he wasn't there.

"Wait, don't tell me that halfling was there the whole time!" Exclaimed Hera angrily.

Once again, Poseidon became enraged.

"Where the heck did you learn to fight like that?" he asked. The air shimmered, and he materialized, holding a Yankees baseball cap as if he'd just taken it off his head.

I felt myself getting angry. I wasn't even fazed by the fact that he'd just been invisible. "You set me up," I said. "You put me here because you knew Clarisse would come after me, while you sent Luke around the flank. You had it all figured out."

Anthony shrugged. "I told you. Athena always, always has a plan."

Athena rubbed her temples. This so-called son was an embarrassment to her.

Poseidon just wants to crush the head of this halfbreed with his bare hands.

"A plan to get me pulverized."

"I came as fast as I could. I was about to jump in, but ..." he shrugged. "You didn't need help."

"It wouldn't hurt to lend her a hand, you nimrod!" Shouted Durga, earning nods from her sister-wives.

Then he noticed my wounded arm. "How did you do that?"

"Sword cut," I said. "What do you think?"

"No. It was a sword cut. Look at it."

The blood was gone. Where the huge cut had been, there was a long white scratch, and even that was fading. As I watched, it turned into a small scar, and disappeared.

The gods look surprised at how fast the scar healed.

"I—I don't get it," I said.

Anthony was thinking hard. I could almost see the gears turning. He looked down at my feet, then at Clarisse's broken spear, and said, "Step out of the water, Percy."

"What—"

"Just do it."

I came out of the creek and immediately felt bone tired. My arms started to go numb again. My adrenaline rush left me. I almost fell over, but Anthony steadied me.

"Oh, Styx," he cursed. "This is not good. I didn't want ... I assumed it would be Zeus... ."

Poseidon scowled at the audacity of the halfbreed assuming the girl's parentage. How can his idiot brother be her father. The girl is his—

He stopped himself.

Before I could ask what he meant, I heard that canine growl again, but much closer than before. A howl ripped through the forest.

"It's that growl again," said Hestia.

The campers' cheering died instantly. Chiron shouted something in Ancient Greek, which I would realize, only later, I had understood perfectly: "Stand ready! My bow!"

Anthony drew his sword.

There on the rocks just above us was a black hound the size of a rhino, with lava-red eyes and fangs like daggers.

"A hellhound!" Hades exclaimed in shock. "Did my counterpart actually sent one after her?!"

Poseidon and everyone else became worried again.

It was looking straight at me.

Nobody moved except Anthony, who yelled, "Percy, run!"

He tried to step in front of me, but the hound was too fast. It leaped over him—an enormous shadow with teeth—and just as it hit me, as I stumbled backward and felt its razor-sharp claws ripping through my armor, there was a cascade of thwacking sounds, like forty pieces of paper being ripped one after the other. From the hounds neck sprouted a cluster of arrows. The monster fell dead at my feet.

The deities sighed in relief at the dead hellhound.

"I hope Percy is okay," said Hercules in concern.

By some miracle, I was still alive. I didn't want to look underneath the ruins of my shredded armor. My chest felt warm and wet, and I knew I was badly cut. Another second, and the monster would've turned me into a hundred pounds of delicatessen meat.

"Thank gods she's alright," said Leto in relief.

Poseidon could finally relax.

Chiron trotted up next to us, a bow in his hand, his face grim.

"Di immortales!" Anthony said. "That's a hellhound from the Fields of Punishment. They don't ... they're not supposed to ..."

"Someone summoned it," Chiron said. "Someone inside the camp."

"A spy?" Asked Ra-Horakhty.

Luke came over, the banner in his hand forgotten, his moment of glory gone.

Clarisse yelled, "It's all Percy's fault! Percy summoned it!"

Stupid girl! Poseidon thought, glaring at the demigod.

"Be quiet, child," Chiron told her.

We watched the body of the hellhound melt into shadow, soaking into the ground until it disappeared.

"You're wounded," Anthony told me. "Quick, Percy, get in the water."

"I'm okay."

"No, you're not," he said. "Chiron, watch this."

I was too tired to argue. I stepped back into the creek, the whole camp gathering around me.

Instantly, I felt better. I could feel the cuts on my chest closing up. Some of the campers gasped.

"Wow, the water really help quicken her healing! She really is uncle's daughter!" Apollo accidentally exclaimed, before he realized what he said. He immediately shut his mouth, and glanced nervously at Poseidon.

To his surprise, Poseidon didn't rebuke or try to kill him.

"Look, I—I don't know why," I said, trying to apologize. "I'm sorry...."

But they weren't watching my wounds heal. They were staring at something above my head.

"Percy," Anthony said, pointing. "Um ..."

By the time I looked up, the sign was already fading, but I could still make out the hologram of green light, spinning and gleaming. A three-tipped spear: a trident.

"That must be claiming," Hades stated.

"So the other Poseidon have recognized her," said Odin in interest.

"Yes, it seems that Poseidon's counterpart has officially recognized her as his daughter. What an interesting way to do so," commented Susano'o.

Poseidon glared murderously at the screen.

So my counterpart officially claim the girl as his daughter, he thought with a scowl, how dare he make a show of it after leaving her defenseless since her birth!

"Your father," Anthony murmured. "This is really not good."

"It is determined," Chiron announced.

All around me, campers started kneeling, even the Ares cabin, though they didn't look happy about it.

"My father?" I asked, completely bewildered.

"Poseidon," said Chiron. "Earthshaker, Stormbringer, Father of Horses. Hail, Percilla Jackson, Daughter of the Sea God."

The scene ended.

"It wasn't that much of a revelation. We knew already," said Buddha.

Chapter Text

Zeus leaned back in his throne, arms crossed as he turned to Poseidon. "So, brother, what do you think of your counterpart's bold move, claiming Percy so publicly? It seems rather... extravagant."

He didn't expect his brother to respond, but he did.

Poseidon, who had been staring at the projection with tightly clenched fists, scowled. His icy-blue eyes darkened, like a storm brewing within them. "Extravagant? More like pathetic," he spat, his voice laced with contempt. "My counterpart let her grow up alone, unaware of her power, unprotected. And now, after years of neglect, he has the audacity to claim her in front of all those lesser beings? It's a spectacle, nothing more."

Hades raised an eyebrow, amused by Poseidon's reaction. "A spectacle, perhaps, but an effective one. The girl is now bound to him, in name and blood. You can't deny that his timing was... strategic."

Poseidon's lip curled in disdain. "Strategic or desperate? It reeks of cowardice, hiding behind a grand gesture instead of actually protecting her." His fingers drummed angrily on the armrest of his throne. "If I were in his position—" he abruptly stopped himself.

The rest of the gods were silent, watching the exchange between the brothers.

Although Adamas couldn't join them, he listened to their conversation intently.

"My little bro cannot still be in denial, man," the god of conquest mumbled, shaking his head.

Zeus and Hades glanced at each other before looking back at Poseidon.

"Hey bro! You admit the girl is your daughter now?" Zeus exclaimed.

Poseidon ignored him.

The god of the sky chuckled quietly to himself.

The screen played again and a title appeared:

I Am Offered A Quest

Zeus raised a brow. "A quest? It seems those gods want to put the girl to work."

Poseidon's scowl deepened. His gaze remained locked on the screen, fury bubbling beneath the surface. "A quest? So, my counterpart decides to send her on a fool's errand, while he still hides behind his realm?"

Hades leaned back in his seat. "A quest is a trial, a way to prove one's worth to the gods. Perhaps your counterpart isn't as much of a fool as you claim, Poseidon."

Hercules frowned, his eyes narrowing at the title. "A quest can mean danger. She's just a young girl. It doesn't seem right to throw her into the lion's den."

"Interesting," Shiva said with a smirk, tilting his head as he watched the screen. "A mortal being offered a quest by the gods. Seems like this Percy girl's about to be thrown into the deep end, huh?"

Loki grinned mischievously. "The deep end, or more like a hurricane. She's the daughter of Poseidon's counterpart after all."

Aphrodite sighed, flicking her hair. "Can't those gods just let the girl live in peace?"

Shiva shrugged, casually stretching his arms. "Quests are about pushing limits. If the girl's strong, she'll come out the other side even stronger. But if not... well..."

Zeus's eyes gleamed, enjoying the reactions. "Ah, Hercules, you of all people should know that trials are the forge of heroes. If this Percy is to live up to her potential, she must endure them."

The gods watched as the screen faded, leaving them to contemplate what would happen next in Percy's journey, each with their own thoughts on the impending quest.

The scene began.

The next morning, Chiron moved me to cabin three.

I didn't have to share with anybody. I had plenty of room for all my stuff: the Minotaur's horn, one set of spare clothes, and a toiletry bag. I got to sit at my own dinner table, pick all my own activities, call "lights out" whenever I felt like it, and not listen to anybody else.

And I was absolutely miserable.

Aphrodite clicked her tongue. "Poor girl. All that power within, and still so lonely.

Hercules nodded, understanding her pain. "Isolation comes with greatness. If it's her destiny, then she'll have to bear that burden."

Just when I'd started to feel accepted, to feel I had a home in cabin eleven and I might be a normal kid—or as normal as you can be when you're a half-blood—I'd been separated out as if I had some rare disease.

Nobody mentioned the hellhound, but I got the feeling they were all talking about it behind my back. The attack had scared everybody. It sent two messages: one, that I was the daughter of the Sea God; and two, monsters would stop at nothing to kill me. They could even invade a camp that had always been considered safe.

Odin leaned forward, his single eye gleaming. "The camp isn't as safe as they believe. She's marked by her bloodline, and no boundary will protect her now."

The other campers steered clear of me as much as possible. Cabin eleven was too nervous to have sword class with me after what I'd done to the Ares folks in the woods, so my lessons with Luke became one-on-one. He pushed me harder than ever, and wasn't afraid to bruise me up in the process.

"You're going to need all the training you can get," he promised, as we were working with swords and flaming torches. "Now let's try that viper-beheading strike again. Fifty more repetitions."

Thor nodded in approval. "She'll need more than brute strength. Precision is key in battle. If she can master this, she'll be a force to reckon with."

Anthony still taught me Greek in the mornings, but he seemed distracted. Every time I said something, he scowled at me, as if I'd just poked him between the eyes.

After lessons, he would walk away muttering to himself: "Quest ... Poseidon? ... Dirty rotten ... Got to make a plan ..."

Shiva smirked. "Looks like not everyone's thrilled about this quest."

Poseidon's eyes narrowed dangerously at the half-breed's mention of his counterpart's name in such a despicable tone. While he held a low opinion of his alternate self, the way the demigod spoke felt like disrespect toward him. "That insolent fool dares to speak like that?" he growled, his voice rumbling like distant thunder.

Even Clarisse kept her distance, though her venomous looks made it clear she wanted to kill me for breaking her magic spear. I wished she would just yell or punch me or something. I'd rather get into fights every day than be ignored.

Zeus laughed loudly, much to the annoyance of Poseidon and Hera. "That's more like it! A fight a day keeps the boredom away!"

I knew somebody at camp resented me, because one night I came into my cabin and found a mortal newspaper dropped inside the doorway, a copy of the New York Daily News, opened to the Metro page. The article took me almost an hour to read, because the angrier I got, the more the words floated around on the page.

Loki smirked, crossing his arms. "Looks like the humans are already spreading rumors. Typical."

From his hiding spot, Adamas frowned. "A kid going through all of this... doesn't sit right with me."

GIRL AND MOTHER STILL MISSING AFTER

FREAK CAR ACCIDENT

BY EILEEN SMYTHE

Sally Jackson and daughter Percilla are still missing one week after their mysterious disappearance. The family's badly burned '78 Camaro was discovered last Saturday on a north Long Island road with the roof ripped off and the front axle broken. The car had flipped and skidded for several hundred feet before exploding.

Mother and daughter had gone for a weekend vacation to Montauk, but left hastily, under mysterious circumstances. Small traces of blood were found in the car and near the scene of the wreck, but there were no other signs of the missing Jacksons. Residents in the rural area reported seeing nothing unusual around the time of the accident.

Ms. Jackson's husband, Gabe Ugliano, claims that his stepdaughter, Percilla Jackson, is a troubled child who has been kicked out of numerous boarding schools and has expressed violent tendencies in the past.

Police would not say whether daughter Percilla is a suspect in her mother's disappearance, but they have not ruled out foul play. Below are recent pictures of Sally Jackson and Percilla. Police urge anyone with information to call the following toll-free crime-stoppers hotline.

"Humans are so quick to blame those who are different. The poor girl." Said Aphrodite, brushing her hair back.

Buddha grinned. "Her stepfather is a real piece of work. What an idiot."

Poseidon and Hades narrowed their eyes at the mention of Gabe Ugliano.

Poseidon's grip tightened on the armrest of his throne, his voice low and dangerous. "That mortal dares to slander her? I would crushed that fool with my waves."

Hades nodded, his expression darkening. "He speaks of her as if she's a criminal. Fools like him always seek to twist the truth for attention. I have little tolerance for such insolence." His voice became even colder. "Perhaps one day, the stepfather will learn what true consequences are."

The phone number was circled in black marker.

I wadded up the paper and threw it away, then flopped down in my bunk bed in the middle of my empty cabin.

"Lights out," I told myself miserably.

Poseidon clenched his fists at the sight of her misery. She shouldn't be facing this. If my counterpart had any sense, he'd shield her from this nonsense.

That night, I had my worst dream yet.

I was running along the beach in a storm. This time, there was a city behind me. Not New York. The sprawl was different: buildings spread farther apart, palm trees and low hills in the distance.

"A storm dream? That's got your name written all over it, Poseidon," Zeus said casually.

The Olympians smacked their foreheads.

The tyrant scowled. "Do not make come me stab you, Zeus."

About a hundred yards down the surf, two men were fighting. They looked like TV wrestlers, muscular, with beards and long hair. Both wore flowing Greek tunics, one trimmed in blue, the other in green. They grappled with each other, wrestled, kicked and head-butted, and every time they connected, lightning flashed, the sky grew darker, and the wind rose.

Zeus's eyes gleamed with interest. "Two gods fighting—one in blue, one in green? Who else could that be?"

Poseidon growled, eyes narrowing further. "Our counterparts have no shame. Fighting like children, while the world falls apart around them."

Hades raised an eyebrow. "Or is it symbolic? After all, mortals often dream of their own inner conflicts."

I had to stop them. I didn't know why. But the harder I ran, the more the wind blew me back, until I was running in place, my heels digging uselessly in the sand.

Apollo sighed deeply. "Trying to stop gods from fighting is like digging your own grave."

Over the roar of the storm, I could hear the blue-robed one yelling at the green-robed one, Give it back! Give it back! Like a kindergartner fighting over a toy.

Shiva burst out laughing. "Those gods sound ridiculous. 'Give it back!'" He mimicked mockingly. "What is this, a schoolyard brawl?"

The other deities nodded in agreement. They couldn't believe how immature the gods in that universe are.

The waves got bigger, crashing into the beach, spraying me with salt.

I yelled, Stop it! Stop fighting!

The ground shook. Laughter came from somewhere under the earth, and a voice so deep and evil it turned my blood to ice.

The Greek gods froze at the sound, their sudden stillness causing the other deities to grow concerned.

Hades's eyes flickered. "That voice... this is something darker. It seems familiar, somehow."

Poseidon cracked the armrests of his throne, glaring dangerously at the screen.

Come down, little hero, the voice crooned. Come down!

Odin frowned in concern. "It sounds like it's trying to lure her."

The sand split beneath me, opening up a crevice straight down to the center of the earth. My feet slipped, and darkness swallowed me.

I woke up, sure I was falling.

I was still in bed in cabin three. My body told me it was morning, but it was dark outside, and thunder rolled across the hills. A storm was brewing. I hadn't dreamed that.

"I do not believe that was an ordinary dream," Morpheus remarked. "It looks to be more of a premonition."

"I agree with you," said Heimdall, the Norse god of foresight and surveillance.

Thor nodded, his eyes lighting up. "The storm is a sign. It's not just weather; it's portent."

I heard a clopping sound at the door, a hoof knocking on the threshold.

"Ugh, please don't tell me who I think it is," groaned Loki.

"Come in?"

Grover trotted inside, looking worried. "Mr. D wants to see you."

"Why?"

"He wants to kill... I mean, I'd better let him tell you."

Dionysus jolted. "Wait, what was the Satyr about to say? My counterpart wants to kill her?"

Poseidon's face darkened. If my nephew's counterpart dares to hurt her...

Nervously, I got dressed and followed, sure that I was in huge trouble.

Loki chuckled. "Ah, the classic misinterpretation. Always a good sign of trouble."

For days, I'd been half expecting a summons to the Big House. Now that I was declared a daughter of Poseidon, one of the Big Three gods who weren't supposed to have kids, I figured it was a crime for me just to be alive. The other gods had probably been debating the best way to punish me for existing, and now Mr. D was ready to deliver their verdict.

"If those gods dare to punish her for nothing, then they have no sense of honor!" Growled Poseidon.

Loki grinned wickedly. "Punishing a child for their parentage? How amusingly pathetic."

Hades' eyes narrowed. "To condemn someone for their lineage is a grave injustice that should not be tolerated."

Odin nodded solemnly. "Indeed. Usually, it is the gods' duty to guide, not to castigate their own kin. If such a thing is happening, it undermines the very essence of divine responsibility."

Over Long Island Sound, the sky looked like ink soup coming to a boil. A hazy curtain of rain was coming in our direction. I asked Grover if we needed an umbrella.

"No," he said. "It never rains here unless we want it to."

I pointed at the storm. "What the heck is that, then?"

He glanced uneasily at the sky. "It'll pass around us. Bad weather always does."

Zeus frowned. "The weather is being influenced by my counterpart. The storm seems to be significant."

I realized he was right. In the week I'd been here, it had never even been overcast. The few rain clouds I'd seen had skirted right around the edges of the valley.

But this storm ... this one was huge.

At the volleyball pit, the kids from Apollo's cabin were playing a morning game against the satyrs. Dionysus's twins were walking around in the strawberry fields, making the plants grow. Everybody was going about their normal business, but they looked tense. They kept their eyes on the storm.

"Even the gods' children are feeling the impact of this storm," Susano'o said observantly.

Ares, watching intently, nodded. "The storm's intensity must be making its presence felt across the camp. The unease is palpable."

Beelzebub's eyes narrowed as he took in the sight. "Clearly, it is a sign of the growing tension between the gods," he said, finally speaking up after staying silent. He had been busy writing notes.

"Look at the kids trying to act normal while clearly on edge. It's almost entertaining," Loki said mischievously.

Hestia sighed, shaking her head. "It's a shame. The tension is clouding their enjoyment. It's not right for them to be so anxious during what should be a simple game or a peaceful day in the fields."

Grover and I walked up to the front porch of the Big House. Dionysus sat at the pinochle table in his tiger-striped Hawaiian shirt with his Diet Coke, just as he had on my first day. Chiron sat across the table in his fake wheelchair. They were playing against invisible opponents--two sets of cards hovering in the air.

Dionysus wondered if the Diet Coke will be a permanent fixture of his counterpart.

"Well, well," Mr. D said without looking up. "Our little celebrity."

I waited.. . . . . . . . .

"Come closer," Mr. D said. "And don't expect me to kowtow to you, mortal, just because old Barnacle-Beard is your father."

Many gods gasped in shock at the insult.

"How insolent," said Hera with a scowl.

Poseidon glared at his nephew's alternate on the screen, angered by the audacity of the insult since it is like a disrespect towards himself. But he couldn't believe that his counterpart had a beard.

Zeus and Hades, finding it funny, tried to stifle their laughter.

Adamas chuckled to himself, mumbling "Barnacle-Beard..."

The wine god flinched at his counterpart's disrespect toward's his uncle's alternate.

A net of lightning flashed across the clouds. Thunder shook the windows of the house.

"Hmph! How petty that my counterpart is trying to make his presence known," Zeus grumbled.

"It seems the situation is escalating quickly. I wonder how much more the mortal world in that universe will bear."Said Hades.

"Blah, blah, blah," Dionysus said.

Chiron feigned interest in his pinochle cards. Grover cowered by the railing, his hooves clopping back and forth.

"If I had my way," Dionysus said, "I would cause your molecules to erupt in flames. We'd sweep up the ashes and be done with a lot of trouble. But Chiron seems to feel this would be against my mission at this cursed camp: to keep you little brats safe from harm."

Poseidon's face darkened with fury as he emitted a menacing aura. The weaker gods shivered in fear, feeling the surge of power emanating from him.

"Spontaneous combustion is a form of harm, Mr. D," Chiron put in.

"Nonsense," Dionysus said. "Girl wouldn't feel a thing. Nevertheless, I've agreed to restrain myself I'm thinking of turning you into a dolphin instead, sending you back to your father."

The gods exchanged curious glances, wondering if they would finally see Poseidon's counterpart. The sea god, however, was annoyed and not at all enthusiastic about seeing his alternate self.

"Mr. D—" Chiron warned.

"Oh, all right," Dionysus relented. "There's one more option. But it's deadly foolishness." Dionysus rose, and the invisible players' cards dropped to the table. "I'm off to Olympus for the emergency meeting. If the girl is still here when I get back, I'll turn her into an Atlantic bottlenose. Do you understand? And Percilla Jackson, if you're at all smart, you'll see that's a much more sensible choice than what Chiron feels you must do."

"He sounds so unpleasant to be around," commented Persephone.

Dionysus looked as if he swallowed a lemon. "My counterpart doesn't have to keep speaking to the girl that way."

Dionysus picked up a playing card, twisted it, and it became a plastic rectangle. A credit card? No. A security pass.

He snapped his fingers.

The air seemed to fold and bend around him. He became a hologram, then a wind, then he was gone, leaving only the smell of fresh-pressed grapes lingering behind.

Chiron smiled at me, but he looked tired and strained. "Sit, Percilla, please. And Grover."

We did.

Chiron laid his cards on the table, a winning hand he hadn't gotten to use.

"Tell me, Percilla," he said. "What did you make of the hellhound?"

"It was ugly," commented Anubis, before being smacked on the head by Ra once again.

"Shut up, you foolish boy, or you'll anger Hades!" Ra-Horakhty whispered-yelled at his great-great-grandson.

"It's not his hellhound though," mumbled the young looking Egyptian god.

Just hearing the name made me shudder.

Chiron probably wanted me to say, Heck, it was nothing. I eat hellhounds for breakfast. But I didn't feel like lying.

"Good, you are bad at it," stated Apollo.

"It scared me," I said. "If you hadn't shot it, I'd be dead."

"Her survival instincts are sharp. She won't die easily," Ares stated.

"You'll meet worse, Percy. Far worse, before you're done."

"Worse?! She is going to face more dangerous monsters?!" Hestia yelled.

The gods, including Poseidon, looked worried.

"Monsters are a test of strength and resolve for demigods. She'll face them, and she'll endure." Declared Hercules.

"Done ... with what?"

"Your quest, of course. Will you accept it?"

I glanced at Grover, who was crossing his fingers.

"Um, sir," I said, "you haven't told me what it is yet."

Chiron grimaced. "Well, that's the hard part, the details."

Thunder rumbled across the valley. The storm clouds had now reached the edge of the beach. As far as I could see, the sky and the sea were boiling together.

"Poseidon and Zeus," I said. "They're fighting over something valuable ... something that was stolen, aren't they?".

"Just what the hell was stolen from our counterparts to make them fight each other?" Asked Zeus impatiently.

Hades and Poseidon frowned, thinking it over.

Chiron and Grover exchanged looks.

Chiron sat forward in his wheelchair. "How did you know that?"

My face felt hot. I wished I hadn't opened my big mouth. "The weather since Christmas has been weird, like the sea and the sky are fighting. Then I talked to Anthony, and he'd overheard something about a theft. And ... I've also been having these dreams."

"I knew it," Grover said.

Athena scowled. "Of course the satyr knew."

"Hush, satyr," Chiron ordered.

"But it is her quest!" Grover's eyes were bright with excitement. "It must be!"

"Only the Oracle can determine." Chiron stroked his bristly beard. "Nevertheless, Percy, you are correct. Your father and Zeus are having their worst quarrel in centuries. They are fighting over something valuable that was stolen. To be precise: a lightning bolt."

"A lightning bolt?!" Exclaimed the deities in surprise.

"Why is a lightning bolt valuable?" Wondered Zeus in confusion.

I laughed nervously. "A what?"

"Do not take this lightly," Chiron warned. "I'm not talking about some tinfoil-covered zigzag you'd see in a second-grade play. I'm talking about a two-foot-long cylinder of high-grade celestial bronze, capped on both ends with god-level explosives."

"Oh."

"That is interesting," commented Hephaestus, thinking about the intricate craftsmanship and destructive potential.

"Zeus's master bolt," Chiron said, getting worked up now. "The symbol of his power, from which all other lightning bolts are patterned. The first weapon made by the Cyclopes for the war against the Titans, the bolt that sheered the top off Mount Etna and hurled Kronos from his throne; the master bolt, which packs enough power to make mortal hydrogen bombs look like firecrackers."

"So my alternate has his own symbol of power and it's... stolen?" Zeus said in disbelief. "How can a god be so careless?!"

"There is a likelihood that the alternates of Poseidon and I have their own symbols of power," said Hades. "Would our counterparts be careless as well?"

"The most important thing is whether our counterparts can make do without their pathetic symbols," sneered Poseidon. "If they are weaker without them, they are utterly useless!"

"And it's missing?"

"Stolen," Chiron said.

"By who?"

"By whom," Chiron corrected. Once a teacher, always a teacher. "By you."

"WHAT?!!" everyone in the room yelled.

"How could Percy steal from a god?!" Leto exclaimed. "She hasn't known about their existence before coming to the camp!"

"And where would she even find it?!" Added Demeter.

Poseidon became angry at the centaur for accusing the girl of stealing a trivial bolt that his brother's counterpart had been so negligent in looking after himself.

The number of people he wants to kill in that universe keeps building up.

My mouth fell open.

"At least"—Chiron held up a hand—"that's what Zeus thinks. During the winter solstice, at the last council of the gods, Zeus and Poseidon had an argument. The usual nonsense: 'Mother Rhea always liked you best', 'Air disasters are more spectacular than sea disasters,' et cetera.

Poseidon and Zeus exchanged glances.

"Seriously, how petty are our counterparts?" Zeus remarked, and his brother nodded in agreement.

Hades sighed. "I wish Mother were here. She is the only one who can truly keep you both in line."

Hera and Hestia nodded in agreement.

Poseidon glared at the god of the underworld, while Zeus panicked.

"No, no! There is no need for her to be here!" He frantically waved his hands.

Adamas chuckled quietly to himself. "Yeah, Mother is missing all the fun."

Afterward, Zeus realized his master bolt was missing, taken from the throne room under his very nose. He immediately blamed Poseidon. Now, a god cannot usurp another god's symbol of power directly—that is forbidden by the most ancient of divine laws. But Zeus believes your father convinced a human hero to take it."

"Don't tell me my counterpart is blaming his brother without proof?" Zeus said disbelievingly.

"And they thought the human hero is the girl?" Buddha asked with a raised eyebrow.

"I am starting to believe the gods in that universe are dumber than the mortals," Loki remarked, which the gods agreed.

"But I didn't—"

"Patience and listen, child," Chiron said. "Zeus has good reason to be suspicious. The forges of the Cyclopes are under the ocean, which gives Poseidon some influence over the makers of his brother's lightning. Zeus believes Poseidon has taken the master bolt, and is now secretly having the Cyclopes build an arsenal of illegal copies, which might be used to topple Zeus from his throne. The only thing Zeus wasn't sure about was which hero Poseidon used to steal the bolt. Now Poseidon has openly claimed you as his daughter. You were in New York over the winter holidays. You could easily have snuck into Olympus. Zeus believes he has found his thief."

"The girl doesn't even know where Olympus is!" Yelled Hera.

"The other Poseidon made a strategic error then for openly claiming Percy as his daughter," Athena stated.

"Likely he did it unintentionally, but it implicated the girl," said Susano'o.

"The move not only raises suspicions but also complicates her position." Hades added.

Poseidon gritted his teeth. His counterpart is such an idiot!

"But I've never even been to Olympus! Zeus is crazy!"

"I take that as a compliment," said Zeus, even though the insult is not directed towards him.

"Zeus!" His sister-wife yelled at him angrily.

"What, my dear? I am just acknowledging that I am!"

Poseidon and Adamas smirked.

Hestia sighs tiredly.

Hades feels like banging his head against a concrete wall.

I really wished mother showed up!

Chiron and Grover glanced nervously at the sky. The clouds didn't seem to be parting around us, as Grover had promised. They were rolling straight over our valley, sealing us in like a coffin lid.

"Er, Percy ...?" Grover said. "We don't use the c-word to describe the Lord of the Sky."

"Perhaps paranoid," Chiron suggested. "Then again, Poseidon has tried to unseat Zeus before. I believe that was question thirty-eight on your final exam...." He looked at me as if he actually expected me to remember question thirty-eight.

Poseidon suddenly recalled the time Adamas tried to persuade him to team up and usurp Zeus.

Adamas blanched, reminded of his past self.

How could anyone accuse me of stealing a god's weapon? I couldn't even steal a slice of pizza from Gabe's poker party without getting busted. Chiron was waiting for an answer.

The gods scowled at the mention of the disgusting mortal.

"Something about a golden net?" I guessed. "Poseidon and Hera and a few other gods ... they, like, trapped Zeus and wouldn't let him out until he promised to be a better ruler, right?"

Zeus chuckled. "Wow, my counterpart must be crazier than I am to have other gods restrain him."

Hera side-eyed him. "Maybe we should restrain you for your lustful adventures."

That shut him up.

"Correct," Chiron said. "And Zeus has never trusted Poseidon since. Of course, Poseidon denies stealing the master bolt. He took great offense at the accusation. The two have been arguing back and forth for months, threatening war. And now, you've come along—the proverbial last straw."

"But I'm just a kid!"

"That's right!" The gods shouted.

"Percy," Grover cut in, "if you were Zeus, and you already thought your brother was plotting to overthrow you, then your brother suddenly admitted he had broken the sacred oath he took after World War II, that he's fathered a new mortal hero who might be used as a weapon against you.... Wouldn't that put a twist in your stola?"

Some gods seemed to find the satyrs analogy amusing, and a few chuckled.

"A twist in her stola! That's so funny!" Loki laughed, slapping his knee.

"But I didn't do anything. Poseidon—my dad—he didn't really have this master bolt stolen, did he?"

By now, the gods remained silent, their expressions a mix of concern and contemplation.

Chiron sighed. "Most thinking observers would agree that thievery is not Poseidon's style. But the Sea God is too proud to try convincing Zeus of that. Zeus has demanded that Poseidon return the bolt by the summer solstice. That's June twenty-first, ten days from now. Poseidon wants an apology for being called a thief by the same date. I hoped that diplomacy might prevail, that Hera or Demeter or Hestia would make the two brothers see sense. But your arrival has inflamed Zeus's temper. Now neither god will back down. Unless someone intervenes, unless the master bolt is found and returned to Zeus before the solstice, there will be war. And do you know what a full-fledged war would look like, Percy?"

There is a mix of apprehension and concern for the girl on the screen.

"A war?! I hope the girl will not be in the middle of it," said Zeus.

Poseidon looked troubled and uneasy.

"Bad?" I guessed.

"Imagine the world in chaos. Nature at war with itself. Olympians forced to choose sides between Zeus and Poseidon. Destruction. Carnage. Millions dead. Western civilization turned into a battleground so big it will make the Trojan War look like a water-balloon fight."

Susano'o shook his head at the potential scale of the devastation.

"So it would be similar to what we would want to unleash on humanity before Chaos appeared," said Zeus, frowning.

"The question is, do we still want to destroy humanity?" Hades asked.

The deities now looked conflicted.

Poseidon, on the other hand, is expressionless.

Brunhilde had a hopeful look on her face.

"Bad," I repeated.

"And you, Percilla Jackson, would be the first to feel Zeus's wrath."

If that pathetic god dares...Poseidon thought angrily.

It started to rain. Volleyball players stopped their game and stared in stunned silence at the sky.

I had brought this storm to Half-Blood Hill. Zeus was punishing the whole camp because of me. I was furious.

"So I have to find the stupid bolt," I said. "And return it to Zeus."
"What better peace offering," Chiron said, "than to have the daughter of Poseidon return Zeus's property?"

Athena nodded, understanding the strategic significance of such an act.

Hades, Poseidon, Hestia, and Leto frowned at the thought of the girl having to face danger to return the bolt.

"If Poseidon doesn't have it, where is the thing?"

"I believe I know." Chiron's expression was grim. "Part of a prophecy I had years ago ... well, some of the lines make sense to me, now. But before I can say more, you must officially take up the quest. You must seek the counsel of the Oracle."

"I'd like to see what my alternate's Oracle looks like," commented Apollo.

"Why can't you tell me where the bolt is beforehand?"

Hades, Odin, and Susano'o look thoughtful, contemplating the reason behind the secrecy.

"Because if I did, you would be too afraid to accept the challenge."

"The centaur is annoyingly cryptic ," Shiva stated.

Poseidon narrowed his eyes, irritated at the centaur's words.

I swallowed. "Good reason."

"You agree then?"

I looked at Grover, who nodded encouragingly.

Easy for him. I was the one Zeus wanted to kill.

"All right," I said. "It's better than being turned into a dolphin."

"Then it's time you consulted the Oracle," Chiron said. "Go upstairs, Percilla Jackson, to the attic. When you come back down, assuming you're still sane, we will talk more."

Hades's and Poseidon's face darkened, wary of the ominous revelations that might emerge from the Oracle.

Four flights up, the stairs ended under a green trapdoor.

I pulled the cord. The door swung down, and a wooden ladder clattered into place.

The warm air from above smelled like mildew and rotten wood and something else ... a smell I remembered from biology class. Reptiles. The smell of snakes.

Anubis sighs happily, thinking of his daughter Kebechet.

Does my sweet little girl miss me? He thought.

I held my breath and climbed.

The attic was filled with Greek hero junk: armor stands covered in cobwebs; once-bright shields pitted with rust; old leather steamer trunks plastered with stickers saying ITHAKA, CIRCE'S ISLE, and LAND OF THE AMAZONS. One long table was stacked with glass jars filled with pickled things—severed hairy claws, huge yellow eyes, various other parts of monsters. A dusty mounted trophy on the wall looked like a giant snake's head, but with horns and a full set of shark's teeth. The plaque read, HYDRA HEAD #1, WOODSTOCK, N.Y., 1969.

By the window, sitting on a wooden tripod stool, was the most gruesome memento of all: a mummy. Not the wrapped-in-cloth kind, but a human female body shriveled to a husk. She wore a tie-dyed sundress, lots of beaded necklaces, and a headband over long black hair. The skin of her face was thin and leathery over her skull, and her eyes were glassy white slits, as if the real eyes had been replaced by marbles; she'd been dead a long, long time.

Apollo looked shocked.

"Please don't tell me that mummy is my counterpart's Oracle!" He exclaimed, his voice filled with disbelief.

The members of the Egyptian pantheon glared at him, and he shrank back.

Looking at her sent chills up my back. And that was before she sat up on her stool and opened her mouth. A green mist poured from the mummy's mouth, coiling over the floor in thick tendrils, hissing like twenty thousand snakes. I stumbled over myself trying to get to the trapdoor, but it slammed shut. Inside my head, I heard a voice, slithering into one ear and coiling around my brain:  I am the spirit of Delphi, speaker of the prophecies of Phoebus Apollo, slayer of the mighty Python. Approach, seeker, and ask.

I wanted to say, No thanks, wrong door, just looking for the bathroom. But I forced myself to take a deep breath.

The gods laughed despite the atmosphere.

The corner of Poseidon's lips lifted up.

The mummy wasn't alive. She was some kind of gruesome receptacle for something else, the power that was now swirling around me in the green mist. But its presence didn't feel evil, like my demonic math teacher Mrs. Dodds or the Minotaur. It felt more like the Three Fates I'd seen knitting the yarn outside the highway fruit stand: ancient, powerful, and definitely not human. But not particularly interested in killing me, either.

I got up the courage to ask, "What is my destiny?"

The gods waited with bated breath.

The mist swirled more thickly, collecting right in front of me and around the table with the pickled monster-part jars. Suddenly there were four men sitting around the table, playing cards. Their faces became clearer. It was Smelly Gabe and his buddies.

All the deities in the room glared dangerously at the appearance of the filthy mortals.

Aphrodite felt like vomiting at the sight of these ugly humans.

My fists clenched, though I knew this poker party couldn't be real. It was an illusion, made out of mist.

Gabe turned toward me and spoke in the rasping voice of the Oracle:  You shall go west, and face the god who has turned.

His buddy on the right looked up and said in the same voice:  You shall find what was stolen, and see it safely returned.

The guy on the left threw in two poker chips, then said:  You shall be betrayed by one who calls you a friend.

Finally, Eddie, our building super, delivered the worst line of all:  And you shall fail to save what matters most, in the end.

The gods' eyes widened, the prophecy's dark implications evident.

The figures began to dissolve. At first I was too stunned to say anything, but as the mist retreated, coiling into a huge green serpent and slithering back into the mouth of the mummy, I cried, "Wait! What do you mean? What friend? What will I fail to save?"

The tail of the mist snake disappeared into the mummy's mouth. She reclined back against the wall. Her mouth closed tight, as if it hadn't been open in a hundred years. The attic was silent again, abandoned, nothing but a room full of mementos.

I got the feeling that I could stand here until I had cobwebs, too, and I wouldn't learn anything else.

My audience with the Oracle was over.

The gods began to have discussions about the prophecy.

Zeus's eyes narrowed. "A betrayal from a friend? This is a troubling sign."

Hade's eyes were a mix of anger and concern. "And to fail to save what matters most... that could mean disaster even beyond the conflicts of those gods."

Hestia was visibly distressed, wringing her hands. "What a dreadful prophecy. The idea of betrayal—it's so painful. And failing to save something dear? It's almost too much to bear."

Apollo looked thoughtful. "The mention of the god who has turned—it must be significant. Perhaps uncle Poseidon's counterpart is planning something beyond mere theft."

Poseidon's face darkened at that.

The gods looked at each other, tension thick in the air. The prophecy's implications were clear: this quest was more perilous than the girl would have anticipated, and the stakes were higher than anyone had guessed.

"Well?" Chiron asked me.

I slumped into a chair at the pinochle table. "She said I would retrieve what was stolen."

Grover sat forward, chewing excitedly on the remains of a Diet Coke can. "That's great!"

"What did the Oracle say exactly?" Chiron pressed. "This is important."

My ears were still tingling from the reptilian voice. "She . .. she said I would go west and face a god who had turned. I would retrieve what was stolen and see it safely returned."

"I knew it," Grover said.

Chiron didn't look satisfied. "Anything else?"

I didn't want to tell him.

What friend would betray me? I didn't have that many.

"It's probably either that Grover kid or Athena's son," said Buddha casually, lazily picking his teeth with a toothpick.

Athena glared at him. "They aren't even friends!"

"Yet."

And they better stay that way. Poseidon thought in disdain.

And the last line—I would fail to save what mattered most. What kind of Oracle would send me on a quest and tell me, Oh, by the way, you'll fail.

How could I confess that?

"No," I said. "That's about it."

He studied my face. "Very well, Percy. But know this: the Oracle's words often have double meanings. Don't dwell on them too much. The truth is not always clear until events come to pass."

I got the feeling he knew I was holding back something bad, and he was trying to make me feel better.

Hercules nodded in approval. "Always trust your gut."

"Okay," I said, anxious to change topics. "So where do I go? Who's this god in the west?"

"Ah, think, Percy," Chiron said. "If Zeus and Poseidon weaken each other in a war, who stands to gain?"

"Somebody else who wants to take over?" I guessed.

"Yes, quite. Someone who harbors a grudge, who has been unhappy with his lot since the world was divided eons ago, whose kingdom would grow powerful with the deaths of millions. Someone who hates his brothers for forcing him into an oath to have no more children, an oath that both of them have now broken."

"Don't tell me..." Zeus trailed off, glancing at his eldest brother.

I thought about my dreams, the evil voice that had spoken from under the ground. "Hades."

"Hades?!" The gods exclaimed in shock, turning their attention to the god of the dead.

Hades looked just as surprised.

My counterpart has a grudge against his brothers?

Chiron nodded. "The Lord of the Dead is the only possibility."

A scrap of aluminum dribbled out of Grover's mouth. "Whoa, wait. Wh-what?"

"A Fury came after Percy," Chiron reminded him. "She watched the young girl until she was sure of her identity, then tried to kill her. Furies obey only one lord: Hades."

"Yes, but—but Hades hates all heroes," Grover protested. "Especially if he has found out Percilla is a daughter of Poseidon... ."

"A hellhound got into the forest," Chiron continued. "Those can only be summoned from the Fields of Punishment, and it had to be summoned by someone within the camp. Hades must have a spy here. He must suspect Poseidon will try to use Percy to clear his name. Hades would very much like to kill this young half-blood before she can take on the quest."

"Great," I muttered. "That's two major gods who want to kill me."

The sea god looked furious.

Hades became angry that his counterpart would send monsters to try to kill Poseidon's daughter.

"My counterpart dares to send monsters after Poseidon's daughter? How insolent." His tone was thick with outrage, the thought such an underhanded tactic clearly infuriating him.

"And he likely stolen my counterpart's stupid bolt too," Zeus added.

Poseidon didn't correct him for saying the girl is his daughter.

"But a quest to ..." Grover swallowed. "I mean, couldn't the master bolt be in some place like Maine? Maine's very nice this time of year."

"Hades sent a minion to steal the master bolt," Chiron insisted. "He hid it in the Underworld, knowing full well that Zeus would blame Poseidon. I don't pretend to understand the Lord of the Dead's motives perfectly, or why he chose this time to start a war, but one thing is certain. Percy must go to the Underworld, find the master bolt, and reveal the truth." 

A strange fire burned in my stomach. The weirdest thing was: it wasn't fear. It was anticipation. The desire for revenge. Hades had tried to kill me three times so far, with the Fury, the Minotaur, and the hellhound. It was his fault my mother had disappeared in a flash of light. Now he was trying to frame me and my dad for a theft we hadn't committed.

I was ready to take him on.

Every deity is surprised at how fearless the girl is.

They were stunned at the bold determination radiating from the young demigod. Her fearlessness, in the face of a task that would shake even the minor gods, left them speechless.

Thor crossed his arms. "That girl is incredibly brave."

Shiva smirked, intrigued. "To challenge a god like Hades without flinching...it's quite impressive."

"Hades's alternate has gone too far," Zeus muttered. "But even so... for her to feel no fear?"

There is a spark of something like pride in Poseidon's eyes.

Besides, if my mother was in the Underworld ...

Whoa, girl, said the small part of my brain that was still sane. You're a kid. Hades is a god.

"Now she remembers herself," Buddha chuckled.

Grover was trembling. He'd started eating pinochle cards like potato chips.

The poor guy needed to complete a quest with me so he could get his searcher's license, whatever that was, but how could I ask him to do this quest, especially when the Oracle said I was destined to fail? This was suicide.

"Look, if we know it's Hades," I told Chiron, "why can't we just tell the other gods? Zeus or Poseidon could go down to the Underworld and bust some heads."

Zeus and Poseidon actually snorted at this.

"Suspecting and knowing are not the same," Chiron said. "Besides, even if the other gods suspect Hades—and I imagine Poseidon does—they couldn't retrieve the bolt themselves. Gods cannot cross each other's territories except by invitation. That is another ancient rule. Heroes, on the other hand, have certain privileges. They can go anywhere, challenge anyone, as long as they're bold enough and strong enough to do it. No god can be held responsible for a hero's actions. Why do you think the gods always operate through humans?"

"Wow. The gods over there have stupid rules," Loki stated, and the other deities agreed.

"They are definitely weak for using humans to do anything," said Shiva.

"You're saying I'm being used."

"I'm saying it's no accident Poseidon has claimed you now. It's a very risky gamble, but he's in a desperate situation. He needs you."

Poseidon scowled at the audacity of his alternate self using the girl.

My dad needs me.

Emotions rolled around inside me like bits of glass in a kaleidoscope. I didn't know whether to feel resentful or grateful or happy or angry. Poseidon had ignored me for fourteen years. Now suddenly he needed me.

A feeling of something like envy bubbled within the tyrant.

I looked at Chiron. "You've known I was Poseidon's daughter all along, haven't you?"

"I had my suspicions. As I said ... I've spoken to the Oracle, too."

I got the feeling there was a lot he wasn't telling me about his prophecy, but I decided I couldn't worry about that right now. After all, I was holding back information too.

"So let me get this straight," I said. "I'm supposed go to the Underworld and confront the Lord of the Dead."

Poseidon clenched his fists, feeling the pressure of the quest the girl was about to undertake.

"Check," Chiron said.

"Find the most powerful weapon in the universe."

"Check."

"And get it back to Olympus before the summer solstice, in ten days."

"That's about right."

I looked at Grover, who gulped down the ace of hearts.

"Did I mention that Maine is very nice this time of year?" he asked weakly.

"You don't have to go," I told him. "I can't ask that of you.  

"Oh ..." He shifted his hooves. "No ... it's just that satyrs and underground places ... well..."  

He took a deep breath, then stood, brushing the shredded cards and aluminum bits off his T-shirt. "You saved my life, Percy. If ... if you're serious about wanting me along, I won't let you down."

"So that satyr is not being a coward this time," stated Ares.

"But I think it's more preferable that someone else is with her," said Apollo.

Poseidon and Loki scowled at the idea of the satyr being close to her.

I felt so relieved I wanted to cry, though I didn't think that would be very heroic. Grover was the only friend I'd ever had for longer than a few months. I wasn't sure what good a satyr could do against the forces of the dead, but I felt better knowing he'd be with me.

"At least she will not be alone on her quest," said Demeter.

"All the way, G-man." I turned to Chiron. "So where do we go? The Oracle just said to go west."

"The entrance to the Underworld is always in the west. It moves from age to age, just like Olympus. Right now, of course, it's in America."

"Where?"

Chiron looked surprised. "I thought that would be obvious enough. The entrance to the Underworld is in Los Angeles."

"How is that obvious?" Asked Apollo with a raised brow.

"Oh," I said. "Naturally. So we just get on a plane—"

"No!" Grover shrieked. "Percy, what are you thinking? Have you ever been on a plane in your life?"

I shook my head, feeling embarrassed. My mom had never taken me anywhere by plane. She'd always said we didn't have the money. Besides, her parents had died in a plane crash.

"Percy, think," Chiron said. "You are the daughter of the Sea God. Your father's bitterest rival is Zeus, Lord of the Sky. Your mother knew better than to trust you in an airplane. You would be in Zeus's domain. You would never come down again alive."

The gods, especially the Olympians, couldn't believe how petty Zeus's counterpart was.

"Geez, how much worse can my counterpart be?" Zeus mumbled.

Overhead, lightning crackled. Thunder boomed.

"Okay," I said, determined not to look at the storm. "So, I'll travel overland."

"That's right," Chiron said. "Two companions may accompany you. Grover is one. The other has already volunteered, if you will accept h is  help."

"Gee," I said, feigning surprise. "Who else would be stupid enough to volunteer for a quest like this?"

The air shimmered behind Chiron.

Anthony became visible, stuffing his Yankees cap into his back pocket.

All the gods, even Athena, scowled at the appearance of this demigod.

"Not him too," muttered Apollo.

"I've been waiting a long time for a quest, seaweed brain," he said. "Athena is no fan of Poseidon, but if you're going to save the world, I'm the best person to keep you from messing up."

The sea tyrant glared at the halfbreed for the insult towards the girl.

"If you do say so yourself," I said. "I suppose you have a plan, wise guy?"

His cheeks colored. "Do you want my help or not?"

Poseidon's eyes narrowed further, observing the boy's face.

The truth was, I did. I needed all the help I could get.

"A trio," I said. "That'll work."

"Excellent," Chiron said. "This afternoon, we can take you as far as the bus terminal in Manhattan. After that, you are on your own."

Lightning flashed. Rain poured down on the meadows that were never supposed to have violent weather.

"No time to waste," Chiron said. "I think you should all get packing."

The scene ended.

Right after, a grand burst of light shimmered into the room.

A tall figure of a woman in an elegant dress appeared.

"Hello, everyone!" greeted Rhea, the Greek Titaness of motherhood cheerfully.

Chapter Text

"MOTHER!" The children of Rhea yelled in shock at her sudden appearance.

"Lady Rhea!" The other deities exclaimed.

Adamas would've yelled too, but remembered that he was "dead."

"W-what are you doing here, mother?!" Zeus stuttered nervously.

The Titaness, a tall, beautiful woman with flowing golden hair, piercing emerald eyes, and sharp, regal features, turned to him, keeping her cheerful smile. "What do you mean, my boy? Do you want your poor, old mother to be left out of this party?"

"N-no, mother! I'm just surprised, that's all!" Zeus stammered again.

Rhea then turned to her other children.

"Aren't you going to greet me, my children?"

Hestia, Demeter, Hera, and Hades greeted the Titaness warmly. On the other hand, Poseidon stiffly muttered a greeting.

Rhea frowned in disapproval and floated over to where he sat. She pinched his cheek.

"Mother, let go of me," Poseidon snarled.

"Such a stubborn son of mine. Why can't you smile for once?" She let go of him, then summoned a throne and sat next to Zeus.

Zeus began to sweat bullets. Why does she have to sit next to me?

"So, Lord Chaos has spoken to me about what everyone here has been watching."

"Chaos has spoken to you?!" Zeus exclaimed, bewildered.

The Titaness nodded. "Yes, he told me you're all watching the life of a demigod named Percilla Jackson. I just can't believe he didn't tell me sooner."

Her eyes sparkled with joy as she turned to Poseidon, beaming. "Poseidon, my son, you have a daughter! A granddaughter for me! I'm so overjoyed!"

Poseidon, looking away with a deep frown, grumbled something about overbearing mothers.

"Now, recap everything you've seen so far, Zeus."

Zeus gulped but did as he was told.

It took a long moment for the recap, during which the gods waited patiently in silence.

After his brother finished recapping to their mother, Hades sat up straighter in his throne, a soft smile tugging at his lips as he met his mother's gaze. "It's good to see you, Mother," he said warmly. "It's been far too long since we've had you here."

Rhea's smile brightened as she turned to him. "Thank you, Hades. It's always a pleasure to be among my children."

"Of course," Hades continued. "And if you've come to learn more about Poseidon's daughter, I think you'll find her story as fascinating as we have."

Rhea's eyes softened as she regarded Hades. "Yes, that's exactly why I'm here. I want to understand more about this granddaughter I never knew I had."

"Shall we continue on with the next scene, mother?" said Hera.

Rhea nodded, "Yes, let's proceed."

A new title appears:

I Ruined A Perfectly Good Bus

Rhea frowned. "Why would my granddaughter ruin a bus? Assuming this is her."

Zeus erupted into laughter, clutching his sides. "Oh, trust me, Mother. It's definitely her!"

Loki chuckled mischievously, his eyes gleaming. "I have to say, it's quite impressive. Not many mortals managed to cause that much chaos with a bus."

Shiva smirked, shaking his head. "Mortals are creative in the strangest ways. This one, though—she takes the cake."

It didn't take me long to pack. I decided to leave the Minotaur horn in my cabin, which left me only an extra change of clothes and a toothbrush to stuff in a backpack Grover had found for me.

The camp store loaned me one hundred dollars in mortal money and twenty golden drachmas. These coins were as big as Girl Scout cookies and had images of various Greek gods stamped on one side and the Empire State Building on the other. The ancient mortal drachmas had been silver, Chiron told us, but Olympians never used less than pure gold. Chiron said the coins might come in handy for non-mortal transactions—whatever that meant. He gave Anthony and me each a canteen of nectar and a Ziploc bag full of ambrosia squares, to be used only in emergencies, if we were seriously hurt. It was god food, Chiron reminded us. It would cure us of almost any injury, but it was lethal to mortals. Too much of it would make a half-blood very, very feverish. An overdose would burn us up, literally.

There was a mix of curiosity and concern regarding the nectar and ambrosia.

"I wonder how Percy might end up using it since she has to be more cautious. There is such high stakes with that," said Hades.

Rhea raised an eyebrow, her voice calm but thoughtful. "Nectar and ambrosia are potent gifts. My granddaughter will need to be wise in their use. Too much power in inexperienced hands can be dangerous."

Poseidon suddenly became anxious of the potential consequences if the girl misuse it.

Anthony was bringing his magic Yankees cap, which he told me had been a  fourteenth -birthday present from his mom. He carried a book on famous classical architecture, written in Ancient Greek, to read when he got bored, and a long bronze knife, hidden in his shirt sleeve. I was sure the knife would get us busted the first time we went through a metal detector.

Athena nodded in approval. As my son, he should always be prepared with knowledge. Reading Ancient Greek architecture will sharpen his mind, she thought.

If she spoke positively about her son, her uncle might smite her.

She then frowned slightly. But a long bronze knife hidden in his sleeve? Not the most discreet choice. Let's hope they avoid metal detectors altogether.

"Hmm, this must be your son, Athena. He seems intelligent," Rhea commented, making Athena straighten up.

"Yes, Lady Rhea," Athena replied, her tone measured, "he has inherited a good mind from my counterpart, but he shares my qualities as well."

Grover wore his fake feet and his pants to pass as human. He wore a green rasta-style cap, because when it rained his curly hair flattened and you could just see the tips of his horns. His bright orange backpack was full of scrap metal and apples to snack on. In his pocket was a set of reed pipes his daddy goat had carved for him, even though he only knew two songs: Mozart's Piano Concerto no. 12 and Hilary Duff's "So Yesterday," both of which sounded pretty bad on reed pipes.

Loki snorted, barely able to contain his laughter. "Mozart and Hilary Duff? On reed pipes? Now that's a musical disaster waiting to happen. I'd pay to see that chaos unfold."

Apollo cringed, visibly shuddering at the thought. "Ugh, the mere idea of butchering Mozart and Hilary Duff on reed pipes is enough to make me want to take away his instrument. Some music should never be subjected to such... torture."

Ares gave Apollo a surprised look. "You listen to mortal music, Apollo?"

The sun god froze. "Uh... no?" He didn't sound convincing.

"So this is the satyr that's around my granddaughter?" Asked Rhea.

Zeus nodded. "Yes, Mother."

"He seems....harmless enough," Rhea said thoughtfully, eyeing the satyr on the screen with mild amusement. Remembering what her son had recapped to her, she added, "But I do hope he can protect my granddaughter better."

We waved good-bye to the other campers, took one last look at the strawberry fields, the ocean, and the Big House, then hiked up Half-Blood Hill to the tall pine tree that used to be Thalia, daughter of Zeus.

Rhea's amusement turned to a frown again. "Zeus, do not ever be like your counterpart. My grandchildren should never become a tree."

Internally scared, Zeus nodded obediently. "Yes, Mother."

Chiron was waiting for us in his wheelchair. Next to him stood the surfer dude I'd seen when I was recovering in the sick room. According to Grover, the guy was the camp's head of security. He supposedly had eyes all over his body so he could never be surprised. Today, though, he was wearing a chauffeur's uniform, so I could only see extra peepers on his hands, face and neck.

"And this must be the centaur," said Rhea.

"This is Argus," Chiron told me. "He will drive you into the city, and, er, well, keep an eye on things."

This creature caught Hera's attention.

So this is my counterpart's watchman, thought Hera. He is much smaller than mine, and less...hideous.

I heard footsteps behind us.

Luke came running up the hill, carrying a pair of basketball shoes.

"Hey!" he panted. "Glad I caught you."

Now it was Hermes's turn to be attentive with the appearance of his son.

"What's with the basketball shoes?" Buddha asked.

Anthony blushed, the way he always did when Luke was around.

The gods took notice.

"Is he gay?" Anubis asked.

"He could be," Aphrodite replied, twirling a lock of her hair.

For some reason, Poseidon felt a sense of relief bloom within him.

"Or he could be bisexual," the love goddess added.

That relief was instantly crushed.

"Just wanted to say good luck," Luke told me. "And I thought ... um, maybe you could use these."

He handed me the sneakers, which looked pretty normal. They even smelled kind of normal.

Luke said, "Maia!"

Hera scowled, while Hermes jolted in surprise.

"That's my mother's name!" He exclaimed.

Zeus wanted to curl into a ball under his wife's glare.

Hades, Poseidon, Rhea, Odin, Susano'o, and Beelzebub suddenly had a bad feeling about those shoes.

White bird's wings sprouted out of the heels, startling me so much, I dropped them. The shoes flapped around on the ground until the wings folded up and disappeared.

Hermes noted that the shoes are similar to his winged leather boots.

"Awesome!" Grover said.

Luke smiled. "Those served me well when I was on my quest. Gift from Dad. Of course, I don't use them much these days...." His expression turned sad.

The messenger god felt his heart pierced and grew angry at his counterpart for not being there for his children.

If given the chance, he would have taken them away from that world.

I didn't know what to say. It was cool enough that Luke had come to say good-bye. I'd been afraid he might resent me for getting so much attention the last few days. But here he was giving me a magic gift.... It made me blush almost as much as Anthony.

Poseidon narrowed his eyes at the sight of her blush, and rage bubbled up inside him.

"Oooh, she has a little crush on him," cackled Zeus.

Aphrodite giggled prettily.

Poseidon would have snapped at his brother, but their mother was present.

"Zeus," Rhea said warningly.

Zeus gulped and fell silent.

Hestia, Hades, Hera, and Demeter smiled with satisfaction.

"Hey, man," I said. "Thanks."

"Listen, Percy ..." Luke looked uncomfortable. "A lot of hopes are riding on you. So just ... kill some monsters for me, okay?"

Rhea frowned once again. "I do not like the thought of my granddaughter jumping into danger. She is just a child."

"That's what we've been saying, Mother! But these counterparts of ours are just... urgh!" exclaimed Hestia, pulling her hair in frustration.

"These gods in that world are very negligent. They have to follow some stupid rules, which don't make sense since, you know, they are gods," added Demeter.

Now I am worried what my counterpart is like, thought Rhea. Is she like me, or different?

We shook hands. Luke patted Grover's head between his horns, then gave a good-bye hug to Anthony, who looked like he might pass out.

After Luke was gone, I told him, "You're hyperventilating."

"Am not."

"You let him capture the flag instead of you, didn't you?"

"Oh ... why do I want to go anywhere with you, Percy?"

He stomped down the other side of the hill, where a white SUV waited on the shoulder of the road. Argus followed, jingling his car keys.

"How immature," scoffed Apollo, rolling his eyes.

Poseidon sneered at the half-breed's behavior.

I picked up the flying shoes and had a sudden bad feeling. I looked at Chiron. "I won't be able to use these, will I?"

He shook his head. "Luke meant well, Percy. But taking to the air ... that would not be wise for you."

"Of course my other self is the reason," Zeus remarked.

"Flying can be very dangerous, especially for someone untrained," said Hades.

I nodded, disappointed, but then I got an idea. "Hey, Grover. You want a magic item?"

His eyes lit up. "Me?"

Pretty soon we'd laced the sneakers over his fake feet, and the world's first flying goat boy was ready for launch.

"Maia!" he shouted.

He got off the ground okay, but then fell over sideways so his backpack dragged through the grass. The winged shoes kept bucking up and down like tiny broncos.

Many deities began to laugh uproariously at the scene.

Zeus cackled like a hyena.

Adamas tried to muffle his own laughter.

Poseidon smirked, while Hades, Rhea, Odin, and Susano'o chuckled.

"Practice," Chiron called after him. "You just need practice!"

"Aaaaa!" Grover went flying sideways down the hill like a possessed lawn mower, heading toward the van.

"This is hilarious!" Laughed Loki, entertained by the satyr's misfortune.

Before I could follow, Chiron caught my arm. "I should have trained you better, Percilla," he said. "If only I had more time. Hercules, Jason—they all got more training."

Hercules frowned and said, "Did the centaur actually trained her how to fight? I didn't see any of that."

"Training takes many forms, but it's not always about physical lessons." Replied Susano'o. "He must've trained her on strategy and preparation, even if it wasn't immediately obvious."

"That's okay. I just wish—"

I stopped myself because I was about to sound like a brat. I was wishing my dad had given me a cool magic item to help on the quest, something as good as Luke's flying shoes, or Anthony's invisible cap.

Poseidon scowled and said, "She doesn't need any flashy trinkets from my counterpart."

"Of course she does, as long as it helps her on her quest," interjected Rhea. "You're saying that because you're jealous of your counterpart."

The sea god's scowl deepened further, but he didn't say anything in response.

"What am I thinking?" Chiron cried. "I can't let you get away without this."

He pulled a pen from his coat pocket and handed it to me. It was an ordinary disposable ballpoint, black ink, removable cap. Probably cost thirty cents.

The gods were surprised to see the familiar pen.

"Isn't that the pen that changed into a sword she used against the Fury?" asked Ares.

Apollo nodded. "It is."

"Gee," I said. "Thanks."

"Percy, that's a gift from your father. I've kept it for years, not knowing you were who I was waiting for. But the prophecy is clear to me now. You are the one."

"So her father did gift her something," Hades commented.

Poseidon clenched his armrests tightly.

I could give her something better, he thought before he could stop himself. He was still battling internally with accepting the girl as his daughter.

I remembered the field trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, when I'd vaporized Mrs. Dodds. Chiron had thrown me a pen that turned into a sword. Could this be ... ?

I took off the cap, and the pen grew longer and heavier in my hand. In half a second, I held a shimmering bronze sword with a double-edged blade, a leather-wrapped grip, and a flat hilt riveted with gold studs. It was the first weapon that actually felt balanced in my hand.

"The sword has a long and tragic history that we need not go into," Chiron told me. "Its name is Anaklusmos."

"Tragic history huh?" Commented Shiva in wonder.

Odin, Athena, Susano'o, and Hades became interested with the history of the sword.

"'Riptide,'" I translated, surprised the Ancient Greek came so easily.

"Use it only for emergencies," Chiron said, "and only against monsters. No hero should harm mortals unless absolutely necessary, of course, but this sword wouldn't harm them in any case."

"Then that sword is useless! What if the humans try to harm her?" Ares exclaimed. The gods mumbled their agreement.

Before Chaos showed up, the gods would have said the sword was useless for not harming mortals.

I looked at the wickedly sharp blade. "What do you mean it wouldn't harm mortals? How could it not?"

"The sword is celestial bronze. Forged by the Cyclopes, tempered in the heart of Mount Etna, cooled in the River Lethe. It's deadly to monsters, to any creature from the Underworld, provided they don't kill you first. But the blade will pass through mortals like an illusion. They simply are not important enough for the blade to kill. And I should warn you: as a demigod, you can be killed by either celestial or normal weapons. You are twice as vulnerable."

Poseidon looked frozen in shock. She is...twice as vulnerable?

"Twice as vulnerable?" Rhea's voice thundered with a mix of anger and worry. "That sounds like a harsh reality for the demigods of that world. Their divine parents need to step up and provide their full protection!"

Hades nodded solemnly. "Indeed, Mother. It's a reminder of the risks that come with their godly heritage. Even with divine gifts, their lives are precarious."

"Good to know."

"Now recap the pen."

I touched the pen cap to the sword tip and instantly Riptide shrank to a ballpoint pen again. I tucked it in my pocket, a little nervous, because I was famous for losing pens at school.

"You can't," Chiron said.

"Can't what?"

"Lose the pen," he said. "It is enchanted. It will always reappear in your pocket. Try it."

I was wary, but I threw the pen as far as I could down the hill and watched it disappear in the grass.

The gods watched in interest.

"It may take a few moments," Chiron told me. "Now check your pocket."

Sure enough, the pen was there.

"How convenient," commented Athena, her eyes narrowing with approval. "A useful enchantment for a hero."

"Let's hope the pen's magic is as reliable as it's claimed to be. There's no room for mistakes in the field." Said Ares.

"Okay, that's extremely cool," I admitted. "But what if a mortal sees me pulling out a sword?"

Chiron smiled. "Mist is a powerful thing, Percy."

"Mist?"

"Mist?" The gods echoed in unison.

Somehow, this caught the attention of Hecate, the Greek goddess of magic and witchcraft.

"Yes. Read The Iliad. It's full of references to the stuff. Whenever divine or monstrous elements mix with the mortal world, they generate Mist, which obscures the vision of humans. You will see things just as they are, being a half-blood, but humans will interpret things quite differently. Remarkable, really, the lengths to which humans will go to fit things into their version of reality."

"So the gods of that world actually hide themselves from humans," said Ra-Horakhty thoughtfully. "While I would find it bothersome, it is a clever yet deceptive way to maintain control over perception."

I put Riptide back in my pocket.

For the first time, the quest felt real. I was actually leaving Half-Blood Hill. I was heading west with no adult supervision, no backup plan, not even a cell phone. (Chiron said cell phones were traceable by monsters; if we used one, it would be worse than sending up a flare.) I had no weapon stronger than a sword to fight off monsters and reach the Land of the Dead.

"That's a risky situation," Hades remarked, his brow furrowed. "No backup plan? No means of communication?"

Odin's eyes were sharp with concern. "Percy's bravery is commendable, but proper planning is crucial."

Susano'o nodded, though his expression looked troubled. "We can only hope her courage and skill will see her through. She has the potential, but she'll need to be cautious."

"Chiron ..." I said. "When you say the gods are immortal... I mean, there was a time before them, right?"

"Four ages before them, actually. The Time of the Titans was the Fourth Age, sometimes called the Golden Age, which is definitely a misnomer. This, the time of Western civilization and the rule of Zeus, is the Fifth Age."

Zeus chuckled darkly, remembering the war with the Titans. "The Titans are remnants of a bygone era," he said, his voice like thunder. "Their reign crumbled, and we rose from their ashes."

"No offense, Mother and Leto," he said, glancing nervously at the only two Titan(esses) in the room.

Rhea and Leto just nodded knowingly, their expressions calm. "None taken," Rhea said with a serene smile. "Even we knew their time had passed."

Leto added softly, "The world needed change, and so it came."

Hades spoke next. "Immortal the gods may be, but even we had a beginning. Time is an eternal cycle," he mused. "The Titans thought they were the end. They were wrong."

Adamas clenched his fists, remembering his father's terrible reign.

Poseidon scoffed, folding his arms. "My brothers and I carved out our place in the cosmos, and we did not do so kindly."

Shiva, listening nearby, raised an eyebrow. "Do you think the cycle won't turn again?"

Zeus's eyes sparked with challenge, and he leaned forward. "Let it turn. Let the next era come. We'll still stand above all."

"So what was it like ... before the gods?"

Chiron pursed his lips. "Even I am not old enough to remember that, child, but I know it was a time of darkness and savagery for mortals. Kronos, the lord of the Titans, called his reign the Golden Age because men lived innocent and free of all knowledge. But that was mere propaganda. The Titan king cared nothing for your kind except as appetizers or a source of cheap entertainment. It was only in the early reign of Lord Zeus, when Prometheus the good Titan brought fire to mankind, that your species began to progress, and even then Prometheus was branded a radical thinker. Zeus punished him severely, as you may recall. Of course, eventually the gods warmed to humans, and Western civilization was born."

"Their Kronos is pretty similar to our father," commented Zeus. "And so is the way the humans progressed."

Rhea cringed at the reminder of her ex-husband.

"But the gods can't die now, right? I mean, as long as Western civilization is alive, they're alive. So ... even if I failed, nothing could happen so bad it would mess up everything, right?"

Chiron gave me a melancholy smile. "No one knows how long the Age of the West will last, Percy. The gods are immortal, yes. But then, so were the Titans. They still exist, locked away in their various prisons, forced to endure endless pain and punishment, reduced in power, but still very much alive. May the Fates forbid that the gods should ever suffer such a doom, or that we should ever return to the darkness and chaos of the past. All we can do, child, is follow our destiny."

"The Titans in that universe are still alive?!" Hera exclaimed, her eyes wide.

"Seriously?" Zeus mumbled in disbelief. "I was able to kill Father. Don't tell me my counterpart's own father is still around?!"

Hades narrowed his eyes, his voice low and grave. "Alive, yes. But existence isn't life. I'd rather be in the Underworld than bound in Tartarus for eternity. It is a worse fate than death." His gaze flickered towards Zeus. "Perhaps your counterpart failed to learn the finality of death, brother."

Poseidon grunted, running a hand through his hair, clearly annoyed. "Locked away or not, the Titans are dangerous. Those useless gods better make sure they are never released."

"Our destiny ... assuming we know what that is."

"Relax," Chiron told me. "Keep a clear head. And remember, you may be about to prevent the biggest war in human history."

"Relax," I said. "I'm very relaxed."

"You are not fooling anyone," said Apollo, shaking his head.

When I got to the bottom of the hill, I looked back. Under the pine tree that used to be Thalia, daughter of Zeus, Chiron was now standing in full horse-man form, holding his bow high in salute. Just your typical summer-camp send-off by your typical centaur.

Argus drove us out of the countryside and into western Long Island. It felt weird to be on a highway again, Anthony and Grover sitting next to me as if we were normal carpoolers. After two weeks at Half-Blood Hill, the real world seemed like a fantasy. I found myself staring at every McDonald's, every kid in the back of his parents' car, every billboard and shopping mall.

"So far so good," I told Anthony. "Ten miles and not a single monster."

Xolotyl, the Aztec god of fire and misfortune, shook his head. "She shouldn't have jinxed it."

He gave me an irritated look. "It's bad luck to talk that way, seaweed brain."

Poseidon still hates this half-breed for insulting her.

"Remind me again—why do you hate me so much?"

"I don't hate you."

"He doesn't? He sure doesn't act like it," Shiva said sarcastically.

"Could've fooled me."

He folded his cap of invisibility. "Look ... we're just not supposed to get along, okay? Our parents are rivals."

Athena stiffened and glanced nervously at Poseidon.

"Why?"

He sighed. "How many reasons do you want? One time my mom caught Poseidon with his girlfriend in Athena's temple, which is hugely disrespectful. Another time, Athena and Poseidon competed to be the patron god for the city of Athens. Your dad created some stupid saltwater spring for his gift. My mom created the olive tree. The people saw that her gift was better, so they named the city after her."

"How childish," Poseidon sneered. "My counterpart shouldn't care to patronizing a human city."

"Humans just love to make up rivalries," commented Rhea, thinking about the false stories humans had written about the gods in this world.

Athena let out a sigh of relief. She wouldn't care either.

"They must really like olives."

"Oh, forget it."

"Now, if she'd invented pizza—that I could understand."

Mmm, pizza...Adamas thought dreamily.

Now he likes all kinds of pizza, except the pineapples and ham one because, in his opinion, it's disgusting.

"I said, forget it!"

In the front seat, Argus smiled. He didn't say anything, but one blue eye on the back of his neck winked at me.

Traffic slowed us down in Queens. By the time we got into Manhattan it was sunset and starting to rain.

Argus dropped us at the Greyhound Station on the Upper East Side, not far from my mom and Gabe's apartment. Taped to a mailbox was a soggy flyer with my picture on it: HAVE YOU SEEN THIS GIRL?

The atmosphere in the room darkened at the mention of the vile human.

Poseidon's expression twisted in disgust as he clenched his fists. That wretched mortal, he thought with fury. I'd drown him in the deepest abyss for his treatment of the girl.

I ripped it down before Anthony and Grover could notice.

Argus unloaded our bags, made sure we got our bus tickets, then drove away, the eye on the back of his hand opening to watch us as he pulled out of the parking lot.

I thought about how close I was to my old apartment. On a normal day, my mom would be home from the candy store by now. Smelly Gabe was probably up there right now, playing poker, not even missing her.

"I hope that mortal dies from a terrible accident or something," Artemis said in disdain.

Grover shouldered his backpack. He gazed down the street in the direction I was looking. "You want to know why she married him, Percy?"

"Is the satyr reading her mind?" asked Loki, raising his brow.

I stared at him. "Were you reading my mind or something?"

"Just your emotions." He shrugged. "Guess I forgot to tell you satyrs can do that. You were thinking about your mom and your stepdad, right?"

I nodded, wondering what else Grover might've forgotten to tell me.

"Your mom married Gabe for you," Grover told me. "You call him 'Smelly,' but you've got no idea. The guy has this aura.... Yuck. I can smell him from here. I can smell traces of him on you, and you haven't been near him for a week."

"Ew, no! Girls are supposed to smell nice, not have the same scent as some greasy human male!" Aphrodite said in disgust.

Persephone nodded in agreement. "Yes, like flowers."

The thought of Percilla smelling like her stepfather put Poseidon on edge.

"Thanks," I said. "Where's the nearest shower?"

"You should be grateful, Percy. Your stepfather smells so repulsively human he could mask the presence of any demigod. As soon as I took a whiff inside his Camaro, I knew: Gabe has been covering your scent for years. If you hadn't lived with him every summer, you probably would've been found by monsters a long time ago. Your mom stayed with him to protect you. She was a smart lady. She must've loved you a lot to put up with that guy—if that makes you feel any better."

"So...that is a good thing?" Rhea asked questioningly.

"How would smelling like that walrus make her feel any better?" Asked Isis, the Egyptian goddess of life and magic.

"It would've been better if the girl lived with her divine father," stated Osiris, Egyptian god of fertility and agriculture. He is also Isis's husband.

"In my opinion, the halfling was done dirty," said Morrígan.

It didn't, but I forced myself not to show it. I'll see her again, I thought. She isn't gone.

I wondered if Grover could still read my emotions, mixed up as they were. I was glad he and Anthony were with me, but I felt guilty that I hadn't been straight with them. I hadn't told them the real reason I'd said yes to this crazy quest.

The truth was, I didn't care about retrieving Zeus's lightning bolt, or saving the world, or even helping my father out of trouble. The more I thought about it, I resented Poseidon for never visiting me, never helping my mom, never even sending a lousy child-support check. He'd only claimed me because he needed a job done.

Rhea, Hades, and Hestia frowned in disapproval at Poseidon's counterpart for not doing anything to help her.

All I cared about was my mom. Hades had taken her unfairly, and Hades was going to give her back.

Looking cold, Hades cracked the stone of his armrests.

You will be betrayed by one who calls you a friend, the Oracle whispered in my mind. You will fail to save what matters most in the end.

Shut up, I told it.

The gods exchanged uneasy glances, their faces marked by concern. Poseidon's eyes narrowed, his gaze fixed on the girl with an intensity that suggested he was trying to decipher the Oracle's cryptic warning. Hades, usually stoic, shifted slightly, a rare flicker of unease crossing his features.

The rain kept coming down.

We got restless waiting for the bus and decided to play some Hacky Sack with one of Grover's apples. Anthony was unbelievable. He could bounce the apple off his knee, his elbow, his shoulder, whatever. I wasn't too bad myself.

The game ended when I tossed the apple toward Grover and it got too close to his mouth. In one mega goat bite, our Hacky Sack disappeared—core, stem, and all.

Grover blushed. He tried to apologize, but Anthony and I were too busy cracking up.

Finally the bus came. As we stood in line to board, Grover started looking around, sniffing the air like he smelled his favorite school cafeteria delicacy—enchiladas.

"I could go for some enchiladas right now," said Chicomecoatyl. She then summoned a plate of enchiladas for herself.

"What is it?" I asked.

"I don't know," he said tensely. "Maybe it's nothing."

"It's something alright," Buddha stated with a yawn.

Everyone began to show worry or concern.

But I could tell it wasn't nothing. I started looking over my shoulder, too.

I was relieved when we finally got on board and found seats together in the back of the bus. We stowed our backpacks. Anthony kept slapping his Yankees cap nervously against his thigh.

As the last passengers got on, Anthony clamped his hand onto my knee. "Percy."

"How dare he touch her!" snarled Poseidon, abruptly standing up from his throne.

"Poseidon, sit back down this instant!" yelled Rhea.

Still fuming, the tyrant of the seas reluctantly did as his mother told him.

Hades covered his mouth, grinning.

An old lady had just boarded the bus. She wore a crumpled velvet dress, lace gloves, and a shapeless orange-knit hat that shadowed her face, and she carried a big paisley purse. When she tilted her head up, her black eyes glittered, and my heart skipped a beat.

It was Mrs. Dodds. Older, more withered, but definitely the same evil face.

"Oh my, the Fury has returned!" exclaimed Demeter.

"The satyr was wrong for saying it's nothing," stated Apollo.

The gods looked even more troubled. They wished the Fury had actually died.

Hades would like to have a "nice chat" with his counterpart.

I scrunched down in my seat.

Behind her came two more old ladies: one in a green hat, one in a purple hat. Otherwise they looked exactly like Mrs. Dodds—same gnarled hands, paisley handbags, wrinkled velvet dresses. Triplet demon grandmothers.

"All three Furies are after her?!" Shouted Zeus in disbelief.

They sat in the front row, right behind the driver. The two on the aisle crossed their legs over the walkway, making an X. It was casual enough, but it sent a clear message: nobody leaves.

"She is trapped," Kali stated worriedly, sitting close to her sister-wives.

The bus pulled out of the station, and we headed through the slick streets of Manhattan. "She didn't stay dead long," I said, trying to keep my voice from quivering. "I thought you said they could be dispelled for a lifetime."

"I said if you're lucky," Anthony said. "You're obviously not."

The deities glared at the screen in outrage at the boy's audacity in speaking to her in that tone.

Athena rubbed her face in frustration at her son.

"If I were there, I could give her some luck," said Tyche, the Greek goddess of luck.

"All three of them," Grover whimpered. "Di immortales!"

"It's okay," Anthony said, obviously thinking hard. "The Furies. The three worst monsters from the Underworld. No problem. No problem. We'll just slip out the windows."

"They don't open," Grover moaned.

"A back exit?" he suggested.

There wasn't one. Even if there had been, it wouldn't have helped. By that time, we were on Ninth Avenue, heading for the Lincoln Tunnel.

"They won't attack us with witnesses around," I said. "Will they?"

"Mortals don't have good eyes," Anthony reminded me. "Their brains can only process what they see through the Mist."

"They'll see three old ladies killing us, won't they?"

"They'll probably see her killing three old ladies instead," Dionysus said jokingly, trying to lighten the mood.

He thought about it. "Hard to say. But we can't count on mortals for help. Maybe an emergency exit in the roof ... ?"

We hit the Lincoln Tunnel, and the bus went dark except for the running lights down the aisle. It was eerily quiet without the sound of the rain.

Mrs. Dodds got up. In a flat voice, as if she'd rehearsed it, she announced to the whole bus: "I need to use the rest-room."

"So do I," said the second sister.
"So do I," said the third sister.

They all started coming down the aisle.

"I've got it," Anthony said. "Percy, take my hat."

"What?"

"You're the one they want. Turn invisible and go up the aisle. Let them pass you. Maybe you can get to the front and get away."

"But you guys—"

"There's an outside chance they might not notice us," Anthony said. "You're a daughter of one of the Big Three. Your smell might be overpowering."

"I can't just leave you."

"Don't worry about us," Grover said. "Go!"

My hands trembled. I felt like a coward, but I took the Yankees cap and put it on.

Everyone frowned at the girl looking down on herself.

"Percilla is not a coward," Poseidon stated in a tone that brooked no argument. "She shows true bravery by facing her fears, even when she doubts herself."

Rhea, Hades, Zeus, and Adamas looked proud of what he said.

When I looked down, my body wasn't there anymore.

I started creeping up the aisle. I managed to get up ten rows, then duck into an empty seat just as the Furies walked past.

Mrs. Dodds stopped, sniffing, and looked straight at me. My heart was pounding.

The gods' hearts were also pounding, anticipating what was coming next.

Apparently she didn't see anything. She and her sisters kept going.

Everyone let out a sigh of relief.

I was free. I made it to the front of the bus. We were almost through the Lincoln Tunnel now. I was about to press the emergency stop button when I heard hideous wailing from the back row.

The old ladies were not old ladies anymore. Their faces were still the same—I guess those couldn't get any uglier— but their bodies had shriveled into leathery brown hag bodies with bat's wings and hands and feet like gargoyle claws. Their handbags had turned into fiery whips.

Göll, deathly scared, quickly hid behind Brunhilde, who watched the scene impassively.

"Ugh! How hideous!" Aphrodite shivered in disgust.

The Furies surrounded Grover and Anthony, lashing their whips, hissing: "Where is it? Where?"

"Where is what? They're not asking for her," Buddha noted.

"So they're looking for something?" questioned Hades.

The other people on the bus were screaming, cowering in their seats. They saw something, all right.

"She's not here!" Anthony yelled. "She's gone!"

The Furies raised their whips.

Anthony drew his bronze knife. Grover grabbed a tin can from his snack bag and prepared to throw it.

What I did next was so impulsive and dangerous I should've been named ADHD poster child of the year.

"Impulsive huh?" Said Zeus in interest, leaning forward.

The bus driver was distracted, trying to see what was going on in his rearview mirror.

Still invisible, I grabbed the wheel from him and jerked it to the left. Everybody howled as they were thrown to the right, and I heard what I hoped was the sound of three Furies smashing against the windows.

"Woah!" Exclaimed many of the gods, now seemingly hyped.

"Hell yeah!" Screamed Zeus excitedly.

Hades winced, "That is quite impetuous of her."

Rhea, Hestia, Hera, and Demeter nodded in agreement.

Poseidon looked quite worried.

"Hey!" the driver yelled. "Hey—whoa!"

We wrestled for the wheel. The bus slammed against the side of the tunnel, grinding metal, throwing sparks a mile behind us.

We careened out of the Lincoln Tunnel and back into the rainstorm, people and monsters tossed around the bus, cars plowed aside like bowling pins.

"That looks like fun," stated Anubis, earning him a glare from his three times great grandfather.

Somehow the driver found an exit. We shot off the highway, through half a dozen traffic lights, and ended up barreling down one of those New Jersey rural roads where you can't believe there's so much nothing right across the river from New York. There were woods to our left, the Hudson River to our right, and the driver seemed to be veering toward the river.

Another great idea: I hit the emergency brake.

Hestia started biting her nails in anxiety as she watched the scene unfold.

The bus wailed, spun a full circle on the wet asphalt, and crashed into the trees. The emergency lights came on. The door flew open. The bus driver was the first one out, the passengers yelling as they stampeded after him. I stepped into the driver's seat and let them pass.

The Furies regained their balance. They lashed their whips at Anthony while he waved his knife and yelled in Ancient Greek, telling them to back off. Grover threw tin cans.

I looked at the open doorway. I was free to go, but I couldn't leave my friends. I took off the invisible cap. "Hey!"

She should've left them, thought Poseidon in frustration. Those insignificant beings will only hold her back.

The Furies turned, baring their yellow fangs at me, and the exit suddenly seemed like an excellent idea. Mrs. Dodds stalked up the aisle, just as she used to do in class, about to deliver my F- math test. Every time she flicked her whip, red flames danced along the barbed leather.

Her two ugly sisters hopped on top of the seats on either side of her and crawled toward me like huge nasty lizards.

"Percilla Jackson," Mrs. Dodds said, in an accent that was definitely from somewhere farther south than Georgia. "You have offended the gods. You shall die."

"I liked you better as a math teacher," I told her.

"She is either deliberately making the Fury angrier or she has no filter," Beelzebub stated, surprisingly. He had paused his note-taking.

She growled.

Anthony and Grover moved up behind the Furies cautiously, looking for an opening.

I took the ballpoint pen out of my pocket and uncapped it. Riptide elongated into a shimmering double-edged sword.

The Furies hesitated.

Mrs. Dodds had felt Riptide's blade before. She obviously didn't like seeing it again.

"Submit now," she hissed. "And you will not suffer eternal torment."

"Nice try," I told her.

"Percy, look out!" Anthony cried.

Mrs. Dodds lashed her whip around my sword hand while the Furies on the either side lunged at me.

The gods held their breath, watching in tense silence as the confrontation unfolded.

My hand felt like it was wrapped in molten lead, but I managed not to drop Riptide. I stuck the Fury on the left with its hilt, sending her toppling backward into a seat. I turned and sliced the Fury on the right. As soon as the blade connected with her neck, she screamed and exploded into dust.

Everyone looked amazed at her skills with the sword despite lacking training.

Zeus's eyes widened in surprise. "Quite impressive," he remarked, once again taken aback by her prowess. "I just wish there is blood spilled.

Thor nodded with a hint of approval. "Not bad for someone without formal training," he commented, his gaze betraying a mix of admiration and calculation.

Ares grinned, clearly pleased. "She is a true fighter, alright."

Poseidon watched with a hint of something in his eyes.

Anthony got Mrs. Dodds in a wrestler's hold and yanked her backward while Grover ripped the whip out of her hands.

"Ow!" he yelled. "Ow! Hot! Hot!"

The Fury I'd hilt-slammed came at me again, talons ready, but I swung Riptide and she broke open like a piñata.

"Nice simile," Apollo said with amusement.

Mrs. Dodds was trying to get Anthony off her back. She kicked, clawed, hissed and bit, but Anthony held on while Grover got Mrs. Dodds's legs tied up in her own whip. Finally they both shoved her backward into the aisle. Mrs. Dodds tried to get up, but she didn't have room to flap her bat wings, so she kept falling down.

"Zeus will destroy you!" she promised. "Hades will have your soul!"

"Braccas meas vescimini!" I yelled.

With the atmosphere lightened by the girl's successful defeat of the Furies, the gods laughed freely. Even those who didn't understand what she said laughed anyway.

I wasn't sure where the Latin came from. I think it meant "Eat my pants!"

Apollo chuckled. "She's actually saying 'my pants are being eaten.'" He translated. Though the Greek gods hated the Romans, some of them actually know the Latin language.

Thunder shook the bus. The hair rose on the back of my neck.

"Get out!" Anthony yelled at me. "Now!" I didn't need any encouragement.

We rushed outside and found the other passengers wandering around in a daze, arguing with the driver, or running around in circles yelling, "We're going to die!" A Hawaiian-shirted tourist with a camera snapped my photograph before I could recap my sword.

"Our bags!" Grover realized. "We left our—"

BOOOOOM!

The windows of the bus exploded as the passengers ran for cover. Lightning shredded a huge crater in the roof, but an angry wail from inside told me Mrs. Dodds was not yet dead.

"Run!" Anthony said. "She's calling for reinforcements! We have to get out of here!"

We plunged into the woods as the rain poured down, the bus in flames behind us, and nothing but darkness ahead.

The scene ended.

"That was quite action-packed," commented Shiva.

Chapter Text

(Present)

Percy froze for a moment, her instincts screaming at her to bolt again. She didn't want to look at Poseidon's expression any longer, fearing it would send a tremor of terror through her. But as she turned to swim for her life once again, Poseidon's voice stopped her.

In a tone that cut through the silence like a blade, Poseidon spoke. "Since you so badly want to return to your world, I'll let you go."

Percy whipped her head around, her eyes widening in surprise. "Really? You'll let me go?" Her voice was a mix of hope and disbelief.

Poseidon nodded, and Percy saw that his gaze was chillingly cold. "But under one condition: You must defeat me in a fight. If you lose, you will stay by my side, permanently."

The words hung in the water like a heavy fog. Percy's heart sank. She had hoped for a simpler escape, but the idea of fighting Poseidon—an immortal god with untold power—was daunting. The challenge was both a glimmer of hope and a chilling reminder of the formidable force she was up against.

She took a deep breath, steeling herself. The prospect of facing a god like Poseidon, who was not her own father, was terrifying, but she knew she had no other choice.

She had to get out of this world.

She had to see her friends, family, and the love of her life again.

She had to take him on.

Steadying her nerves, Percy met Poseidon's gaze with a newfound resolve, pushing past the fear that threatened to overwhelm her. Her voice rang out with a confidence she didn't entirely feel, but she knew she had to project it.

"Fine," she said, her tone firm. "I'll fight you. If defeating you is the only way to get out of here, then I'll do it."

Poseidon's expression grew darker as he watched Percy's defiant stance. With a frustrated sigh, he raised his hand and conjured a small whirlpool of water. From the swirling depths, Riptide, Percy's trusty sword, emerged, its blade gleaming with a renewed edge.

"Riptide!" Percy exclaimed in shock, not expecting her sword to appear.

"Since you are eager to fight," Poseidon said, his tone icy as he tossed the sword toward Percy, "you can take this back."

Percy easily caught Riptide, her grip tightening around the familiar hilt. The weight of the sword felt reassuring in her hand, a reminder of her strength and her will to fight. She looked up at Poseidon, her eyes burning with determination.

The sea tyrant's gaze remained unwavering as he watched Percy prepare herself. The water around them seemed to grow completely still, the tension in the air palpable. The vast underwater realm stretched out behind him, contrasting with the battlefield that was about to unfold.

Percy gripped Riptide tightly, her knuckles whitening. She felt the familiar weight of the sword grounding her, its presence a reminder of her strength and the battles she had fought before. She took a deep breath, centering herself as she faced the god.

Poseidon's form shimmered momentarily, his divine aura radiating a powerful, almost oppressive force. He drew his own weapon—a trident that seemed to pulse with a deep, ancient energy. The trident's three prongs glinted menacingly as Poseidon held it with casual ease, a stark reminder of his immense power.

"Are you ready?" Poseidon's voice was a low rumble, almost drowned out by the distant echoes of the sea.

Percy nodded, putting on a brave face. "I'm ready."

Without further warning, Poseidon lunged forward, his trident cutting through the water with incredible speed. Percy barely had time to react, raising Riptide in a defensive stance. The clash of their weapons resonated through the underwater expanse, sending shockwaves that disturbed the surrounding sea life. The startled hippocampi swam away, fish scattered in a frenzy, and seaweed whipped around them.

Poseidon's strikes were relentless and precise, each thrust of his trident aimed to break through Percy's defenses. She parried and dodged, her heart thumping wildly as she fought to keep up with the god's formidable speed. Poseidon's fluid grace made him a blur in the water, his divine strength magnifying every movement.

The force of their battle was immense. Each clash between Riptide and the trident sent powerful ripples through the sea, shattering nearby underwater boulders. One particularly massive boulder cracked under the weight of their powers, its fragments exploding into a cloud of debris that scattered across the sea floor. The tremors from the impact sent a shiver through the ocean bed, highlighting the sheer scale of their confrontation.

Poseidon then shifted his tactics, summoning a colossal wave that surged toward Percy with terrifying force. Percy reacted swiftly, using her hydrokinesis to divert the wave. She formed a swirling barrier of water that absorbed the brunt of the impact, but the force nearly drove her backward. The wave crashed against her shield, the water spraying around them in a frothy explosion. Even with her breathing labored, Percy moved gracefully, her tail cutting through the water as she closed in on Poseidon.

She swung Riptide with precision, the blade slicing through the water with a gleaming arc. Poseidon blocked her attack with a wave of his hand, sending a spray of water that collided with Riptide. The impact created a shockwave that rippled through the sea, sending smaller underwater rocks tumbling across the sea floor. Poseidon's divine energy seemed to clash with Percy's elemental control, each hit creating a symphony of chaos and power.

The god of the sea retaliated with a flurry of rapid, powerful strikes. His hands wove intricate patterns, summoning torrents of water that lashed out at Percy with relentless fury. She countered by solidifying the water into crystalline formations, erecting barriers of ice that absorbed and deflected Poseidon's attacks. The ice glinted in the underwater light, creating a dazzling display of frozen artistry as it held firm against his onslaught.

Percy's movements were a blur of agility and precision as she wielded both her hydrokinesis and Riptide. She launched shards of ice with deadly accuracy, each projectile aimed to disrupt Poseidon's concentration. Poseidon's eyes narrowed as he dodged and deflected the ice shards, his frustration growing. The sea around them became a battlefield of glistening ice and churning water, a stark contrast of elements in constant collision.

The battle raged on, each combatant pushing their powers to their limits. Poseidon's divine strength manifested in colossal waves and whirlpools that threatened to engulf Percy. Percy responded with equal fervor, her cryokinesis freezing the water into treacherous obstacles and solidified barriers that shielded her from Poseidon's relentless attacks. The sea trembled with the force of their clash, each movement creating new currents and shifting tides.

Poseidon then summoned a vortex of water, a swirling maelstrom that threatened to engulf Percy entirely. She fought against the powerful current, transforming the vortex into a spinning storm of ice and water. The swirling vortex became a blizzard of frozen shards, whipping around them with a fierce, biting cold that numbed even the god's divine form.

The demigod pressed her advantage, using Riptide to slice through the icy storm and target Poseidon directly. The sea god struggled to maintain control, his focus shifting between the swirling ice and Percy's relentless attacks. Despite his immense power, the sheer force of Percy's elemental control was actually pushing him to his limits.

Poseidon could feel his pulse quicken. With a shark-like grin, a mix of lust and obsession swirled in his eyes.

Yes! This is exactly what he expected of her!

His daughter is powerful, and with such strength, only she can be his wife!

However, she would not defeat him!

He unleashed a massive wave of energy. The wave crashed against Percy with overwhelming force, sending her spiraling through the water. She fought to regain her balance, her breath coming in ragged gasps as she prepared for another attack. Her vision swam with the force of the impact, but she tightened her grip on Riptide, remaining unshaken.

The battle seemed to reach its peak, both combatants locked in a fierce struggle that threatened to overwhelm their surroundings. The water around them was a chaotic whirlwind of energy and power, each clash sending shockwaves through the sea.

Just as Poseidon prepared to deliver a blow that would not kill her but incapacitate her, a sudden, piercing voice cut through the tumultuous water, halting both fighters in their tracks.

"STOP THIS AT ONCE!"

Chapter Text

(Present)

The commanding voice echoed through the underwater realm, carrying an authority that demanded immediate compliance. Percy and Poseidon froze, their weapons momentarily suspended in the charged water. From the swirling depths emerged Rhea, the Titaness of Motherhood, her presence radiating a blend of maternal fierceness and divine power. Rhea was an extraordinarily beautiful woman, with long golden hair that flowed around her like liquid sunlight and piercing green eyes that held a commanding intensity. Accompanying her were Hades and Zeus, both transformed with shimmering mermaid tails, their expressions revealing their distinct reactions to the confrontation.

Hades' dark eyes observed the battle with intense interest, following every clash and movement with a fascination that spoke of deeper intrigue. His gaze was sharp, analyzing the combatants' strategies and the ebb and flow of their elemental powers. It was clear that he found the display of power both impressive and revealing.

While Hades appeared as a young, handsome man, Zeus, on the other hand, looked like a small, frail old man with sunken eyes that gleamed with battle-crazed excitement. His appearance was a stark contrast to Hades. He watched the fight with manic enthusiasm, his face alight with the thrill of divine combat. It was as if the clash of elemental forces had ignited a primal joy within him, and he reveled in the chaos with barely restrained energy.

"Mother, brothers, what are you all here?" Poseidon asked, his tone annoyed by the interruption.

"Your brother told us my granddaughter is here with you. I wanted to come see her!" Rhea said angrily.

Her eyes blazed as she looked at Poseidon, her gaze seething with an intensity that made the very water around her seem to quiver. "Poseidon, what do you think you're doing? This is not the way to handle matters! You've gone too far!"

Poseidon's expression faltered, a flicker of unease crossing his face. "Mother, this is my matter to resolve. She—"

Rhea cut him off, her voice slicing through the water like a blade. "Enough! This isn't just about you or your ego. This is not about proving your strength or asserting dominance. Have you forgotten the responsibilities that come with your power? Now you've taken that power and used it on someone who doesn't deserve it! You are endangering everything in this realm!"

"I felt the tremor of their battle from 'downstairs,'" said Hades jokingly to lighten the atmosphere, though his face showed a hint of concern.

"And I can sense any epic battle anywhere, so I had to come down here!" Zeus exclaimed with a wild look, his frail frame trembling with excitement.

"I needed to make her submit to me, Mother!" Poseidon yelled furiously.

"This is not how things should go, Poseidon!" Rhea yelled back. "Put down your trident!"

Poseidon, though clearly displeased, reluctantly lowered his trident. The divine light that had been pulsating around him dimmed slightly. He looked at Percy with a burning intensity.

Percy, panting from the exertion of the battle, looked at the trio with wariness. "Who are you?" she asked, looking specifically at Rhea and Zeus.

Hades decided to do the introduction. "Percy, since you've already met me, let me introduce them. This is our mother Rhea, the Titaness of Motherhood, and Zeus here is Poseidon's and my brother."

"I am so happy to meet you, Percilla," said Rhea.

"Ooh, I finally get to meet my—" Zeus began, but Hades clamped a hand on his shoulder. "I mean, the girl who caught my brother's attention!" Zeus finished.

Percy raised an eyebrow at that, then asked, "Are you all here to stop this fight?"

Rhea nodded firmly. "Yes, Percy. We are here to ensure that you are treated fairly and that this situation is resolved with reason, not brute force."

"But I don't want the fight to stop," Percy said, her voice filled with determination despite her exhaustion.

The water around them seemed to still in the wake of Percy's words. Rhea's eyes widened in shock, her golden hair shimmering as if reflecting her surprise. Hades raised an eyebrow, his expression a mix of astonishment and intrigue. Even Zeus, typically consumed by his manic enthusiasm, looked momentarily taken aback, his sunken eyes widening with disbelief.

Poseidon, however, was the most visibly shocked. His trident wavered, and the divine light around him dimmed even further. The imposing god's expression shifted from intense focus to one of utter astonishment as he stared at Percy, his previous confidence faltering.

Percy could hardly believe Poseidon's audacity to look shocked. He was the one who instigated it in the first place.

Still panting from the battle's exertion, Percy met the tyrant's stunned gaze with a fierce glare. "I don't want this fight to stop because I want to beat you into a pulp for kidnapping me from my world! You've taken me from everything I cared about!"

Rhea's eyes softened. "Percy, you have the right to be angry, but violence is not the answer. We must address this situation with reasoning."

Percy glared at all of them, her eyes blazing. "I want Poseidon to feel my wrath. I want him to understand what it's like to be torn from everything you know and love. I want him to experience the same helplessness and anger I've felt!"

Rhea took a deep breath, trying to calm the tension in the water. Her gaze remained steady and compassionate as she addressed Percy. "Percy, I understand. It's clear you cannot stay with Poseidon, and it's evident that this situation has caused you immense distress. Why don't you stay with me instead?"

Percy eyed Rhea suspiciously. "Why would you offer me that?"

Rhea opened her mouth to respond, but before she could reveal more, Hades moved closer and whispered urgently into her ear.

"Mother, don't. Poseidon didn't tell her yet."

Percy narrowed her eyes at this.

Rhea's eyes widened, and she closed her mouth. She looked towards Poseidon in disapproval, which he pretended to ignore by looking away.

Rhea turned back to Percy, her voice gentle but firm. "I am just concerned for your well-being. It's important to ensure your safety, given the circumstances. Your rage towards my son is understandable, but my offer is genuine. We can find a resolution that doesn't involve further conflict between you two."

"How about you guys send me home instead of Poseidon?" Percy demanded.

Rhea's gaze turned somber. "I'm afraid I can't offer that solution, Percy. Neither I nor any of the other gods possess the power to send you back to your world. Only Chaos and Poseidon have that capability."

Chaos, the primordial of the void? Percy thought.

"Chaos I would understand, but why does only Poseidon have the ability?" she asked.

"Because Chaos granted it to my brother," Hades answered.

"Why?!" Percy exclaimed in disbelief.

Hades continued, "The reason behind Chaos granting Poseidon the ability to enter another realm is known only to Poseidon himself. He has never shared the details of what he discussed with Chaos with anyone," he said, casting a sidelong glance at the silent god of the sea.

Percy threw her hands up in frustration, with one hand still holding Riptide. "Okay, since obviously this asshole won't let me leave unless I beat the shit out of him, let us finish this fight!" She directed the last part at Poseidon.

"Yes! Let them continue the fight!" Zeus readily agreed, nodding his head energetically.

"NO!" Rhea and Hades shouted simultaneously.

"Why not?!" Percy asked in irritation.

The Titaness and the God of the Dead exchanged subtle, hesitant glances.

Rhea caught Poseidon's gaze.

My son, tell her the truth, she said to him telepathically.

Chapter Text

(Present)

Poseidon's grip tightened on his trident, his knuckles white as he felt Rhea's voice echo in his mind.

Tell her the truth.

His mother's command lingered in his thoughts like a persistent ripple in otherwise still waters. Poseidon's eyes flicked to Percy, then to Hades, whose unreadable gaze weighed on him like a heavy current. The truth. He had buried it, hidden beneath layers of power and possession, but now it threatened to rise to the surface, drawn out by his mother's intervention.

A flash of part of the morning's conversation with Hades before breakfast flooded Poseidon's mind.

**Flashback**

In Poseidon's palace, the morning light refracted through the watery depths surrounding them as servants brought out the first course of breakfast. Hades, who had come to see Percy, sipped his dark drink at his seat by the dining table with his usual inscrutable demeanor, as if he had all the time in the world.

"Poseidon, you know you cannot hide this from her." Hades' tone was quiet but edged with warning. "You have to tell her."

Poseidon stiffened as he stood by the window, watching over the ocean. "Tell her what, brother?"

Hades leveled his dark eyes at him, unmoved by Poseidon's evasiveness. "You know exactly what. She deserves to know the truth. Percy is your daughter."

The words struck like a sharp wave crashing against Poseidon's defenses, but he quickly masked his reaction. "No," he said darkly, laced with annoyance. "She may share my essence, but I do not see her as my daughter. She will never know."

Hades sighed, setting down his cup. "You can't keep this from her forever. The longer you wait, the worse it will be when she finds out. After watching her life, you should have known she'll never accept this kind of relationship with you."

Poseidon stormed over and slammed his fist down on the table, causing a ripple that sent the delicate cutlery clattering. "I will not tell her! She will be my wife, my empress, and that is the end of it!"

The silence that followed was thick with tension. Hades leaned back in his chair, his expression measured, but his eyes burned with something dangerous. "You may desire her as your wife, but what about her feelings? Will she want that?" he asked slowly, trying to make his brother understand. "She's your daughter, Poseidon."

"She is more than that!" Poseidon snapped, his eyes narrowing. "She is more than just my daughter! She is mine, and I will not let her go! What do you know of such matters, Hades? You, who kidnapped Persephone—your own niece—and forced her into marriage. You are such a hypocrite, brother. You're the last god who should lecture me on relationships."

For a moment, Hades' gaze hardened, shadows deepening around him. The comparison had struck a nerve, just as Poseidon had known it would. But to Poseidon's surprise, Hades chuckled darkly, shaking his head.

"A hypocrite? Perhaps," Hades admitted, his voice low, a dark edge lacing his words. "But at least I gave her a choice, twisted as it was. She knew where she stood with me. You..." His gaze darkened with accusation, burning with a mix of disgust and pity. "You lie to yourself and to her. You plan to build a relationship on a foundation of deceit."

Hades leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a quiet intensity. "And do not mistake me, brother. I may have taken Persephone, but even I would never stoop so low as to take my own daughter as a wife. I am not one of the Egyptian gods, reveling in such perversions."

Poseidon flinched, the weight of Hades' words landing like a blow to his core, but he quickly buried his reaction beneath his fury.

The sea god bristled. "I am nothing like you."

"You're worse," Hades said softly, but the weight of his words struck harder than any shout. "Because you know what you're doing is wrong, yet you continue. You want her to be your wife, not out of love, but out of obsession. You want her to submit to you, as if that will fill the emptiness inside you."

Poseidon had shot up from leaning over the table, the water around him swirling violently. "You are supposed to understand me, Hades! As brothers, we are the closest to each other, and yet you failed to understand me! I cannot—will not—lose her!"

Hades stood as well, his dark gaze as steady and cold as the Underworld itself. "You've been losing her since you dragged her to our world. You just haven't realized it yet." He said knowingly.

"Do not speak of this topic again, Hades, or I will never allow you to visit my home ever again!" Poseidon yelled before abruptly returning to his place by the window, staring coldly out into the depths.

Hades sighed and sat back down.

Just then, the door to the dining room opened, and Percy entered.

**Flashback End**

Poseidon snapped back to the present, his chest heaving with the memory of that confrontation. His gaze flickered to Percy, who was still glaring at him with a mix of fury and confusion. She had no idea—no idea how much she meant to him.

"What is going on with you gods? Why is everyone suddenly quiet? My question still hasn't been answered," Percy said, frustration and irritation creeping into her tone.

Even Zeus, usually loud and arrogant, was dead silent. His eyes flickered nervously between Rhea and Poseidon.

Poseidon could feel his mother's piercing gaze on him, urging him to speak, to reveal what was clawing at the edges of his conscience. But he couldn't. He wouldn't.

She belongs to me, he thought fiercely. She will always remain by my side.

Hades, who had been watching the silent exchange with knowing eyes, swam forward, his voice low and calm. "Poseidon, this is your chance. Do what is right, not what your pride demands."

Poseidon's jaw clenched, his eyes flashing with a storm of emotions—anger, guilt, fear. He couldn't bring himself to speak the words. He couldn't tell Percilla the truth that would pull her away from where he wanted her.

He looked at Percy, her defiant stance reminding him so much of himself in his youth—of the fire and fury that had burned inside him when he claimed dominion over the seas. And yet, in her eyes, he saw something deeper—a reflection of the connection they shared, even if she didn't know it yet. That connection would be enough. It had to be.

His mother's pleading voice cut through his thoughts once more. Please, tell her that she is your daughter, Poseidon.

But Poseidon remained silent, his trident still lowered, his gaze fixed on Percy, willing her to stay in his world, in his grasp.

Finally after what seemed like forever, he said one word that shattered everything.

"NO."

Chapter Text

As soon as the scene ended, the gods in the chamber erupted into conversation, each sharing their opinions on the wild events that had just unfolded.

Artemis was the first to speak, shaking her head in amazement. "Three Furies? That's overkill, even by Underworld standards. Poor Percy—she doesn't even know what she's up against yet!"

"I can't believe that satyr thought it was nothing," Apollo chimed in with a frown, crossing his arms. "He should know better—monsters could be lurking anywhere."

"She handled herself well, considering," remarked Athena, her expression thoughtful. "I can see her potential growing, but she needs to learn to control that impulsiveness. Grabbing the wheel of a bus? That was reckless."

Zeus couldn't contain his excitement. "Impulsive? Maybe. But that's what makes her a demigod! That driving stunt—brilliant! I wish I'd been there to see those Furies smash through the windows firsthand!"

Thor, who had been quietly watching, nodded in agreement with Zeus. "The girl didn't just run; she faced her enemies with a resolve that defied her fear. It's that fire that makes heroes worth watching."

Hades, rubbing his chin, added, "I do wonder what they were searching for, though. It wasn't just her they wanted. Something else is at play."

Dionysus chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. "Well, at least the mortal tourists got a great show. I imagine some of them will never ride a bus again after this."

Aphrodite rolled her eyes. "The poor girl shouldn't have to deal with such hideous creatures. Honestly, they were an affront to beauty itself."

Poseidon had been silent throughout most of the discussion, his face unreadable. Internally, he was quite impressed with Percilla's impulsiveness.

The gods murmured in agreement, some still shaking their heads at the danger she'd willingly put herself through.

"Still," Rhea said softly, "Percilla must be careful. She's brave, yes, but her recklessness could cost her dearly one day."

A new title appeared on the screen:

We Visit The Garden Gnome Emporium

Zeus and Loki's eyes lit up, and they both leaned forward with anticipation.

"This is going to be wild!" Zeus exclaimed, grinning widely.

"I agree. I wonder what'll happen next," Loki added, rubbing his hands together, a mischievous glint in his eye.

"Hnn, this will be interesting," said Buddha, breaking a piece of pocky with his teeth.

In a way, it's nice to know there are Greek gods out there, because you have somebody to blame when things go wrong. For instance, when you're walking away from a bus that's just been attacked by monster hags and blown up by lightning, and it's raining on top of everything else, most people might think that's just really bad luck; when you're a half-blood, you understand that some divine force really is trying to mess up your day.

Zeus laughed. "Blown up by lightning, huh? Is that my counterpart's style?"

Loki smirked. "I like the part about messing up someone's day. Divine pranks are always entertaining."

Hades, shaking his head slightly, muttered, "It's not always about mischief. Sometimes fate just gets... complicated."

Thor, arms crossed, said in a deep voice, "Facing monsters, surviving divine wrath—sounds like a test of strength to me."

So there we were, Anthony and Grover and I, walking through the woods along the New Jersey riverbank, the glow of New York City making the night sky yellow behind us, and the smell of the Hudson reeking in our noses.

Grover was shivering and braying, his big goat eyes turned slit-pupiled and full of terror. "Three Kindly Ones. All three at once."

"Well, duh," Loki said mockingly.

I was pretty much in shock myself. The explosion of bus windows still rang in my ears. But Anthony kept pulling us along, saying: "Come on! The farther away we get, the better."

"All our money was back there," I reminded him. "Our food and clothes. Everything."

"That is tough," Ares commented, a hint of sympathy in his voice.

"Poor girl," Hestia said with a sigh, her expression softening.

"Well, maybe if you hadn't decided to jump into the fight—"

"Ungrateful brat!" Poseidon snarled furiously.

"Poseidon, control your temper," Rhea said warningly.

"Yeah, if the girl hadn't saved them, they'd be dead!" Zeus shouted, and the other gods nodded in agreement.

"What did you want me to do? Let you get killed?"

She should've, Poseidon thought darkly.

"You didn't need to protect me, Percy. I would've been fine."

"Sure you would've," Shiva said sarcastically.

"Sliced like sandwich bread," Grover put in, "but fine."

"Shut up, goat boy," said Anthony.

Grover brayed mournfully. "Tin cans ... a perfectly good bag of tin cans."

We sloshed across mushy ground, through nasty twisted trees that smelled like sour laundry.

After a few minutes, Anthony fell into line next to me. "Look, I..." His voice faltered. "I appreciate your coming back for us, okay? That was really brave."

"Oh, so now he's being nice," Apollo remarked with narrowed eyes.

"We're a team, right?"

He was silent for a few more steps. "It's just that if you died ... aside from the fact that it would really suck for you, it would mean the quest was over. This may be my only chance to see the real world."

The atmosphere in the room became chilly.

The gods shivered and glanced nervously at Poseidon, who looked like he was about to explode.

Susano'o frowned, seemingly unaffected by the chill. "That is quite insensitive of the boy to say."

Hades nodded, looking coldly at the screen. "Yes, he shouldn't have said that to her. He's not being supportive."

"Brrr, it's f*cking cold in here! Mother, make him stop!" Zeus whined, shivering.

"Poseidon, stop lowering the temperature, or else I'll send you to the time-out island!" Rhea yelled threateningly.

The sea god reluctantly did as his mother told him.

Then, turning to Zeus, she said, "And do not curse in front of me, Zeus!" She scolded him.

Zeus nodded hastily.

The Triple H's smirked. (Author: Guess the reference 🤼)

The thunderstorm had finally let up. The city glow faded behind us, leaving us in almost total darkness. I couldn't see anything of Anthony except a glint of his blond hair.

"You haven't left Camp Half-Blood since you were seven?" I asked him.

"No ... only short field trips. My dad—"

"The history professor."

"Yeah. It didn't work out for me living at home. I mean, Camp Half-Blood is my home." He was rushing his words out now, as if he were afraid somebody might try to stop him. "At camp you train and train. And that's all cool and everything, but the real world is where the monsters are. That's where you learn whether you're any good or not."

Rhea frowned. "A child shouldn't go seeking out monsters. Not even willingly."

"You're right, Mother," Hades added, his tone serious. "Children, no matter if they are demigods or not, are vulnerable to the dangers out in the open."

If I didn't know better, I could've sworn I heard doubt in his voice.

"You're pretty good with that knife," I said.

"You think so?"

It still irks Poseidon that she is complimenting the boy.

"Anybody who can piggyback-ride a Fury is okay by me."

I couldn't really see, but I thought he might've smiled.

"You know," he said, "maybe I should tell you ... Something funny back on the bus ..."

Whatever he wanted to say was interrupted by a shrill toot-toot-toot, like the sound of an owl being tortured.

The gods winced at the dreadful noise.

Athena, in particular, disliked the implication of her sacred animal being harmed.

"Hey, my reed pipes still work!" Grover cried. "If I could just remember a 'find path' song, we could get out of these woods!" . . . . . . .

He puffed out a few notes, but the tune still sounded suspiciously like Hilary Duff.

"Sacrilege! This is sacrilege to music, I say! Even as a cover of Hilary Duff!" Apollo shouted, covering his ears.

The god of the sea wants to break the satyr's reed pipe in half.

Instead of finding a path, I immediately slammed into a tree and got a nice-size knot on my head.

Everyone glared at the satyr on the screen for causing her to hit her head.

The satyr needs to be dealt with, Poseidon thought.

"Useless goat!" Loki insulted Grover.

Add to the list of superpowers I did not have: infrared vision.

After tripping and cursing and generally feeling miserable for another mile or so, I started to see light up ahead: the colors of a neon sign. I could smell food. Fried, greasy, excellent food. I realized I hadn't eaten anything unhealthy since I'd arrived at Half-Blood Hill, where we lived on grapes, bread, cheese, and extra-lean-cut nymph-prepared barbecue. This girl needed a double cheeseburger.

Demeter frowned in disapproval. "The girl doesn't need all that greasy food in her diet."

Poseidon, Rhea, Hades, and most of the other gods felt the same.

Heset, Buddha, and Anubis drooled.

We kept walking until I saw a deserted two-lane road through the trees. On the other side was a closed-down gas station, a tattered billboard for a 1990s movie, and one open business, which was the source of the neon light and the good smell.

It wasn't a fast-food restaurant like I'd hoped. It was one of those weird roadside curio shops that sell lawn flamingos and wooden Indians and cement grizzly bears and stuff like that. The main building was a long, low warehouse, surrounded by acres of statuary. The neon sign above the gate was impossible for me to read, because if there's anything worse for my dyslexia than regular English, it's red cursive neon English.

Everyone suddenly had a bad feeling about that place.

"That must be the garden gnome emporium," Ares stated.

To me, it looked like: ATNYU MES GDERAN GOMEN MEPROUIM.

"Heh, there is romaji there," Izanagi, the Shinto god of creation, chuckled.

"What the heck does that say?" I asked.

"I don't know," Anthony said.

He loved reading so much, I'd forgotten he was dyslexic, too.

Grover translated: "Aunty Em's Garden Gnome Emporium."

Flanking the entrance, as advertised, were two cement garden gnomes, ugly bearded little runts, smiling and waving, as if they were about to get their picture taken.

Aphrodite cringed at the appearance of the gnomes.

I crossed the street, following the smell of the hamburgers.

"Hey ..." Grover warned.

"The lights are on inside," Anthony said. "Maybe it's open."

"Snack bar," I said wistfully.

"Snack bar," he agreed.

"Wait, they are just going to enter that creepy place?" Artemis said in surprise.

"Those children need some sense knocked into them," said Hera with a scowl.

"Are you two crazy?" Grover said. "This place is weird."

We ignored him.

"I think they should have listened to the satyr's warning," said Dionysus. To his surprise, everyone nodded in agreement with him.

The front lot was a forest of statues: cement animals, cement children, even a cement satyr playing the pipes, which gave Grover the creeps.

"Bla-ha-ha!" he bleated. "Looks like my Uncle Ferdinand!"

"Something is not right about those statues," said Hades. "Some of their expressions look startled."

Poseidon, Rhea, Zeus, Beelzebub, Odin, and Susano'o looked suspiciously at the statues.

We stopped at the warehouse door.

"Don't knock," Grover pleaded. "I smell monsters."

"Your nose is clogged up from the Furies," Anthony told him. "All I smell is burgers. Aren't you hungry?"

"The demigods seem to be under a sort of spell or something," Beelzebub noted, observing their unusual behavior.

Odin and Hades nodded, noticing it as well.

"Meat!" he said scornfully. "I'm a vegetarian."

"You eat cheese enchiladas and aluminum cans," I reminded him.

"Those are vegetables. Come on. Let's leave. These statues are ... looking at me."

Then the door creaked open, and standing in front of us was a tall Middle Eastern woman—at least, I assumed she was Middle Eastern, because she wore a long black gown that covered everything but her hands, and her head was completely veiled. Her eyes glinted behind a curtain of black gauze, but that was about all I could make out. Her coffee-colored hands looked old, but well-manicured and elegant, so I imagined she was a grandmother who had once been a beautiful lady.

"That lady looks sus as hell," said Buddha.

Poseidon and Hades narrowed their eyes at the woman.

"I like her style though," said Hedjhotep, the Egyptian god of fabric and clothes.

Her accent sounded vaguely Middle Eastern, too. She said, "Children, it is too late to be out all alone. Where are your parents?"

"They're ... um ..." Anthony started to say.

"We're orphans," I said.

Everyone widened their eyes at the girl's response. Some gods even choked on their saliva.

"Did she just say they're orphans?!" Shiva exclaimed in surprise.

"Orphans?" the woman said. The word sounded alien in her mouth. "But, my dears! Surely not!"

"We got separated from our caravan," I said. "Our circus caravan. The ringmaster told us to meet him at the gas station if we got lost, but he may have forgotten, or maybe he meant a different gas station. Anyway, we're lost. Is that food I smell?"

Once again, all the deities laughed.

"Circus caravan at a gas station?!" Loki guffawed. "That sounds so ridiculous! Don't tell me that lady would believe such an obviously made-up story?!"

"Oh, my dears," the woman said. "You must come in, poor children. I am Aunty Em. Go straight through to the back of the warehouse, please. There is a dining area."

"That mortal must be stupid to believe her story," Huginn stated.

We thanked her and went inside.

Anthony muttered to me, "Circus caravan?"

"Always have a strategy, right?"

"Your head is full of kelp."

A certain someone gritted their teeth at the boy daring to continue insulting the girl.

The warehouse was filled with more statues—people in all different poses, wearing all different outfits and with different expressions on their faces. I was thinking you'd have to have a pretty huge garden to fit even one of these statues, because they were all life-size. But mostly, I was thinking about food.

Go ahead, call me an idiot for walking into a strange lady's shop like that just because I was hungry, but I do impulsive stuff sometimes. Plus, you've never smelled Aunty Em's burgers. The aroma was like laughing gas in the dentist's chair—it made everything else go away. I barely noticed Grover's nervous whimpers, or the way the statues' eyes seemed to follow me, or the fact that Aunty Em had locked the door behind us.

Göll yelped in fear upon seeing the moving eyes.

This scene confirmed the gods' suspicions. It was now clear that nothing about the place or the woman was normal.

"Okay, that lady is definitely some sort of monster," said Hephaestus.

"My granddaughter needs to get out of there!" Rhea yelled worriedly.

Everyone returned to looking anxious.

All I cared about was finding the dining area. And sure enough, there it was at the back of the warehouse, a fast-food counter with a grill, a soda fountain, a pretzel heater, and a nacho cheese dispenser. Everything you could want, plus a few steel picnic tables out front.

"Please, sit down," Aunty Em said.

"Awesome," I said.

"Um," Grover said reluctantly, "we don't have any money, ma'am."

Before I could jab him in the ribs, Aunty Em said, "No, no, children. No money. This is a special case, yes? It is my treat, for such nice orphans."

"Thank you, ma'am," Anthony said.

Aunty Em stiffened, as if Anthony had done something wrong, but then the old woman relaxed just as quickly, so I figured it must've been my imagination.

Athena and the other gods raised an eyebrow at the woman's odd behavior toward the half-ling.

"Does she have a problem with my son?" Athena muttered.

"Quite all right, Anthony," she said. "You have such beautiful gray eyes, child." Only later did I wonder how she knew Anthony's name, even though we had never introduced ourselves.

"She seemed fixated on the boy's gray eyes," noted Thor.

Does my counterpart have the same eye color as our son? Athena wondered.

Our hostess disappeared behind the snack counter and started cooking. Before we knew it, she'd brought us plastic trays heaped with double cheeseburgers, vanilla shakes, and XXL servings of French fries.

"Now that makes me hungry," said Heset before summoning the exact same foods.

"Hey, share some with me!" Anubis cried out.

I was halfway through my burger before I remembered to breathe.

Anthony slurped his shake.

Grover picked at the fries and eyed the tray's waxed paper liner as if he might go for that, but he still looked too nervous to eat.

"What's that hissing noise?" he asked.

"Hissing noise?" echoed the gods.

Anubis's face lit up excitedly. "Ooh, is it a snake?!" He shouted, thinking of his sweet daughter.

"I didn't even hear anything," said Zeus. "What about the rest of you?"

Everyone else shook their heads.

I listened but didn't hear anything. Anthony shook his head.

"Hissing?" Aunty Em asked. "Perhaps you hear the deep-fryer oil. You have keen ears, Grover."

"I take vitamins. For my ears."

"That's admirable," she said. "But please, relax."

Aunty Em ate nothing. She hadn't taken off her headdress, even to cook, and now she sat forward and interlaced her fingers and watched us eat. It was a little unsettling, having someone stare at me when I couldn't see her face, but I was feeling satisfied after the burger, and a little sleepy, and I figured the least I could do was try to make small talk with our hostess.

"That is kind of her," Leto commented. "I just wish she realized that woman is not a mortal."

"So, you sell gnomes," I said, trying to sound interested.

"Oh, yes," Aunty Em said. "And animals. And people. Anything for the garden. Custom orders. Statuary is very popular, you know."

"A lot of business on this road?"

"Not so much, no. Since the highway was built... most cars, they do not go this way now. I must cherish every customer I get."

My neck tingled, as if somebody else was looking at me. I turned, but it was just a statue of a young girl holding an Easter basket. The detail was incredible, much better than you see in most garden statues. But something was wrong with her face. It looked as if she were startled, or even terrified.

"Yeah, we noticed that right away when we first saw the statues," Shiva stated.

Poseidon remained quiet once again, watching the screen with intense concentration.

"Ah," Aunty Em said sadly. "You notice some of my creations do not turn out well. They are marred. They do not sell. The face is the hardest to get right. Always the face."

"You make these statues yourself?" I asked.

"Oh, yes. Once upon a time, I had two sisters to help me in the business, but they have passed on, and Aunty Em is alone. I have only my statues. This is why I make them, you see. They are my company." The sadness in her voice sounded so deep and so real that I couldn't help feeling sorry for her.

"Do not be fooled by that woman's acting, Percy!" Shouted Parvati.

"The woman is trying to manipulate her to feel bad," added Shiva, his brow furrowed in concern.

"I sense something darker beneath her words," Hades murmured, narrowing his eyes.

Anthony had stopped eating. He sat forward and said, "Two sisters?"

"It's a terrible story," Aunty Em said. "Not one for children, really. You see, Anthony, a bad woman was jealous of me, long ago, when I was young. I had a... a boyfriend, you know, and this bad woman was determined to break us apart. She caused a terrible accident. My sisters stayed by me. They shared my bad fortune as long as they could, but eventually they passed on. They faded away. I alone have survived, but at a price. Such a price."

Athena had an uneasy feeling about this story.

"Something feels off," she murmured, furrowing her brows.

I wasn't sure what she meant, but I felt bad for her. My eyelids kept getting heavier, my full stomach making me sleepy. Poor old lady. Who would want to hurt somebody so nice?

"She must be under an enchantment," Odin stated.

"Let's hope it's not too powerful," said Frigg.

Poseidon wore a worried expression.

"Percy?" Anthony was shaking me to get my attention. "Maybe we should go. I mean, the ringmaster will be waiting."

He sounded tense. I wasn't sure why. Grover was eating the waxed paper off the tray now, but if Aunty Em found that strange, she didn't say anything.

"Such beautiful gray eyes," Aunty Em told Anthony again. "My, yes, it has been a long time since I've seen gray eyes like those."

"Again with the gray eyes," said Hades. "It's like she is obsessed with them."

She reached out as if to stroke Anthony's cheek, but Anthony stood up abruptly.

"We really should go."

"Yes!" Grover swallowed his waxed paper and stood up. "The ringmaster is waiting! Right!"

I didn't want to leave. I felt full and content. Aunty Em was so nice. I wanted to stay with her a while.

"The enchantment must be affecting her strongly," said Susano'o.

"Please leave, my granddaughter!" Rhea cried out worriedly.

Poseidon was so angry that he wanted to decapitate the woman.

"Please, dears," Aunty Em pleaded. "I so rarely get to be with children. Before you go, won't you at least sit for a pose?"

"A pose?" The gods echoed once again.

"She sounds almost too sweet," Ares remarked, eyeing the woman on the screen.

"A pose?" Anthony asked warily.

"A photograph. I will use it to model a new statue set. Children are so popular, you see. Everyone loves children."

Anthony shifted his weight from foot to foot. "I don't think we can, ma'am. Come on, Percy—"

"Sure we can," I said. I was irritated with Anthony for being so bossy, so rude to an old lady who'd just fed us for free. "It's just a photo, Anthony. What's the harm?"

"She jinxed herself once again," Xolotyl stated. "The enchantment must be getting to her."

"Yes, Anthony," the woman purred. "No harm."

I could tell Anthony didn't like it, but he allowed Aunty Em to lead us back out the front door, into the garden of statues.

Aunty Em directed us to a park bench next to the stone satyr. "Now," she said, "I'll just position you correctly. The young girl in the middle, I think, and the two young gentlemen on either side."

Something doesn't feel right, Brunhilde thought, frowning deeply. Her sister, Göll, hid behind her in fear.

"Not much light for a photo," I remarked.

"Oh, enough," Aunty Em said. "Enough for us to see each other, yes?"

"Where's your camera?" Grover asked.

"Shouldn't she have one?" Artemis interjected, raising an eyebrow.

Aunty Em stepped back, as if to admire the shot. "Now, the face is the most difficult. Can you smile for me please, everyone? A large smile?"

Grover glanced at the cement satyr next to him, and mumbled, "That sure does look like Uncle Ferdinand."

"Grover," Aunty Em chastised, "look this way, dear."

She still had no camera in her hands.

"Percy—" Anthony said.

"Yes, please listen to him," Hestia urged, even though she was only watching the girl on a screen. "Something's not right here."

The deities held their breath, waiting in anticipation.

Some instinct warned me to listen to Anthony, but I was fighting the sleepy feeling, the comfortable lull that came from the food and the old lady's voice.

"I will just be a moment," Aunty Em said. "You know, I can't see you very well in this cursed veil...."

"Percy, something's wrong," Anthony insisted.

"They should all get out of there!" Rhea exclaimed, her voice rising. "That woman is about to do something!"

"Wrong?" Aunty Em said, reaching up to undo the wrap around her head. "Not at all, dear. I have such noble company tonight. What could be wrong?"

"That is Uncle Ferdinand!" Grover gasped.

"Look away from her!" Anthony shouted. He whipped his Yankees cap onto his head and vanished. His invisible hands pushed Grover and me both off the bench.

I was on the ground, looking at Aunt Em's sandaled feet.

I could hear Grover scrambling off in one direction, Anthony in another. But I was too dazed to move.

"Run!" Hercules shouted, fists clenched. "Get out of there!"

Then I heard a strange, rasping sound above me. My eyes rose to Aunty Em's hands, which had turned gnarled and warty, with sharp bronze talons for fingernails.

Göll immediately hid behind her unfazed eldest sister.

"This isn't good," Hades murmured, his voice low.

"How utterly disgusting!" Aphrodite gagged.

"Just what kind of monster is she?" Zeus asked.

Poseidon's worried expression turned furious at the transformation.

I almost looked higher, but somewhere off to my left Anthony screamed, "No! Don't!"

More rasping—the sound of tiny snakes, right above me, from ... from about where Aunty Em's head would be.

"SNAKES!" Anubis shouted excitedly before his mean great-great grandfather Ra hit the back of his head.

"Snakes on her head? It seems familiar somehow," said Zeus.

"Run!" Grover bleated. I heard him racing across the gravel, yelling, "Maia!" to kick-start his flying sneakers.

I couldn't move. I stared at Aunty Em's gnarled claws and tried to fight the groggy trance the old woman had put me in.

"MOVE!" Everyone yelled.

"Such a pity to destroy a beautiful young face," she told me soothingly. "Stay with me, Percy. All you have to do is look up."

I fought the urge to obey. Instead, I looked to one side and saw one of those glass spheres people put in gardens—a gazing ball. I could see Aunty Em's dark reflection in the orange glass; her headdress was gone, revealing her face as a shimmering pale circle. Her hair was moving, writhing like serpents.

Aunty Em.

Aunty "M."

How could I have been so stupid?

"She is not stupid," Poseidon stated, surprising everyone.

Think, I told myself. How did Medusa die in the myth?

"Medusa," Zeus breathed, the realization hitting him. "By the gods! I can't believe I missed that!"

"She's one of the Gorgons?!" Exclaimed Athena in shock. " I should have known!"

"The snakes were a huge indication of what monster she is," said Hades.

But I couldn't think. Something told me that in the myth Medusa had been asleep when she was attacked by Perseus. She wasn't anywhere near asleep now. If she wanted, she could take those talons right now and rake open my face.

"Who is Perseus?" Dionysus asked, but the Greeks shrugged.

"Another person our universe doesn't have," Hephaestus answered.

"The Gray-Eyed One did this to me, Percy," Medusa said, and she didn't sound anything like a monster. Her voice invited me to look up, to sympathize with a poor old grandmother. "Anthony's mother, the cursed Athena, turned me from a beautiful woman into this."

"So this Medusa was not born a monster, then," Hermes stated.

Athena blinked rapidly in disbelief. "Wait, my alternate turned this Medusa into a monster out of jealousy?! She's really that petty?!"

"Don't listen to her!" Anthony's voice shouted, somewhere in the statuary. "Run, Percy!"

"Silence!" Medusa snarled. Then her voice modulated back to a comforting purr. "You see why I must destroy the boy, Percy. He is my enemy's son. I shall crush his statue to dust. But you, dear Percilla, you need not suffer." 

"No," I muttered. I tried to make my legs move... 

"Fight it!" Buddha urged. "Don't let her charm you!"

Yes, fight the pull, Percilla! Poseidon yelled in his mind.

"Do you really want to help the gods?" Medusa asked. "Do you understand what awaits you on this foolish quest, Percy? What will happen if you reach the Underworld? Do not be a pawn of the Olympians, my dear. You would be better off as a statue. Less pain. Less pain."

Zeus, Rhea, Hades, and Poseidon had murderous looks at the thought of their counterparts treating their children as pawns.

"Percy!" Behind me, I heard a buzzing sound, like a two-hundred-pound hummingbird in a nosedive. Grover yelled, "Duck!"

I turned, and there he was in the night sky, flying in from twelve o'clock with his winged  shoes fluttering, Grover, holding a tree branch the size of a baseball bat. His eyes were shut tight, his head twitched from side to side. He was navigating by ears and nose alone.

"Duck!" he yelled again. "I'll get her!"

That finally jolted me into action. Knowing Grover, I was sure he'd miss Medusa and nail me. I dove to one side.

Thwack!

At first I figured it was the sound of Grover hitting a tree. Then Medusa roared with rage.

"You miserable satyr," she snarled. "I'll add you to my collection!"

"Impressive, the satyr is making himself useful this time,"commented Indra.

"That was for Uncle Ferdinand!" Grover yelled back.

I scrambled away and hid in the statuary while Grover swooped down for another pass.

Ker-whack!

"Yes, keep hitting her!" Yelled Loki, actually cheering for Grover.

The gods, even Poseidon, smirked in approval.

"Arrgh!" Medusa yelled, her snake-hair hissing and spitting.

Right next to me, Anthony's voice said, "Percy!"

I jumped so high my feet nearly cleared a garden gnome. "Jeez! Don't do that!"

Anthony took off his Yankees cap and became visible. "You have to cut her head off."

"So cutting off the Gorgon's head must be the way to defeat her," said Hades.

"But why does he ask her to do it instead of doing it himself?" Questioned Odin.

"What? Are you crazy? Let's get out of here."

"Medusa is a menace. She's evil. I'd kill her myself, but..." Anthony swallowed, as if he were about to make a difficult admission. "But you've got the better weapon. Besides, I'd never get close to her. She'd slice me to bits because of my mother. You—you've got a chance."

"Spineless coward!" Poseidon sneered.

Adamas felt like throttling the half-ling for forcing the girl to fight the snake lady.

"She does have a better weapon than him, though," said Shiva.

"But he stayed at the summer camp longer and had more training," countered Ares.

"What? I can't—"

"Look, do you want her turning more innocent people into statues?"

He pointed to a pair of statue lovers, a man and a woman with their arms around each other, turned to stone by the monster.

Aphrodite looked sadly at the sight of these tragic lovers.

Anthony grabbed a green gazing ball from a nearby pedestal. "A polished shield would be better." He studied the sphere critically. "The convexity will cause some distortion. The reflection's size should be off by a factor of—"

"Would you speak English?"

"I am!" He tossed me the glass ball. "Just look at her in the glass. Never look at her directly."

Athena nodded in approval at his thinking.

"Hey, guys!" Grover yelled somewhere above us. "I think she's unconscious!"

"Roooaaarrr!"

"Maybe not," Grover corrected. He went in for another pass with the tree branch.

"Hurry," Anthony told me. "Grover's got a great nose, but he'll eventually crash."

I took out my pen and uncapped it. The bronze blade of Riptide elongated in my hand.

"Hehehe, time for the real action!" Zeus announced excitedly, kicking his legs like a kid.

Hera looked annoyed.

Rhea sighed in exasperation.

I followed the hissing and spitting sounds of Medusa's hair.

I kept my eyes locked on the gazing ball so I would only glimpse Medusa's reflection, not the real thing. Then, in the green tinted glass, I saw her.

Grover was coming in for another turn at bat, but this time he flew a little too low. Medusa grabbed the stick and pulled him off course. He tumbled through the air and crashed into the arms of a stone grizzly bear with a painful "Ummphh!"

Everybody winced.

"He did a good job distracting Medusa for that long," said Hades.

Medusa was about to lunge at him when I yelled, "Hey!"

I advanced on her, which wasn't easy, holding a sword and a glass ball. If she charged, I'd have a hard time defending myself.

But she let me approach—twenty feet, ten feet.

The gods waited in suspense.

I could see the reflection of her face now. Surely it wasn't really that ugly. The green swirls of the gazing ball must be distorting it, making it look worse.

"Ugh, she is so unsightly!" The shallow Aphrodite said in disgust.

"You wouldn't harm an old woman, Percy," she crooned. "I know you wouldn't."

I hesitated, fascinated by the face I saw reflected in the glass—the eyes that seemed to burn straight through the green tint, making my arms go weak.

From the cement grizzly, Grover moaned, "Percy, don't listen to her!"

Medusa cackled. "Too late."

She lunged at me with her talons.

"I can't look!" Screamed Göll.

Brunhilde, unaffected by the creature's appearance, made sure to pay close attention to the impending fight.

I slashed up with my sword, heard a sickening shlock!, then a hiss like wind rushing out of a cavern—the sound of a monster disintegrating.

Silence.

""My gods! Did she just defeat a monster with one swing again?" exclaimed Indra in shock.

Poseidon and everyone else stared at the screen with wide eyes.

Again?! Poseidon thought in disbelief.

Something fell to the ground next to my foot. It took all my willpower not to look. I could feel warm ooze soaking into my sock, little dying snake heads tugging at my shoelaces.

"Ewww!" Some of the gods said.

"Oh, yuck," Grover said. His eyes were still tightly closed, but I guess he could hear the thing gurgling and steaming. "Mega-yuck."

Anthony came up next to me, his eyes fixed on the sky. He was holding Medusa's black veil. He said, "Don't move."

Very, very carefully, without looking down, he knelt and draped the monster's head in black cloth, then picked it up. It was still dripping green juice.

"Are you okay?" he asked me, his voice trembling.

"Yeah," I decided, though I felt like throwing up my double cheeseburger. "Why didn't ... why didn't the head evaporate?"

"Once you sever it, it becomes a spoil of war," he said. "Same as your minotaur horn. But don't unwrap the head. It can still petrify you."

"That's interesting to know," said Shiva, just coming out of his shock.

Grover moaned as he climbed down from the grizzly statue. He had a big welt on his forehead. His green rasta cap hung from one of his little goat horns, and his fake feet had been knocked off his hooves. The magic sneakers were flying aimlessly around his head.

"The Red Baron," I said. "Good job, man."

He managed a bashful grin. "That really was not fun, though. Well, the hitting-her-with-a-stick part, that was fun. But crashing into a concrete bear? Not fun."

Surprisingly, most of the gods laughed. It seems they are starting to see the satyr in a more positive light after he bravely fought Medusa.

He snatched his shoes out of the air. I recapped my sword. Together, the three of us stumbled back to the warehouse.

We found some old plastic grocery bags behind the snack counter and double-wrapped Medusa's head. We plopped it on the table where we'd eaten dinner and sat around it, too exhausted to speak.

Finally I said, "So we have Athena to thank for this monster?"

Athena flinched, even though the comment wasn't directed at her.

Anthony flashed me an irritated look. "Your dad, actually. Don't you remember? Medusa was Poseidon's girlfriend. They decided to meet in my mother's temple. That's why Athena turned her into a monster. Medusa and her two sisters who had helped her get into the temple, they became the three gorgons. That's why Medusa wanted to slice me up, but she wanted to preserve you as a nice statue. She's still sweet on your dad. You probably reminded her of him."

"I'm confused. Did the alternate Poseidon rape her or not? Because he told two different stories," said Cú Chulainn.

"Yeah, what's up with that?" asked Morrígan.

Everyone looked confused as well.

Poseidon didn't listen, too busy seething at the thought of the girl looking like his counterpart.

My face was burning. "Oh, so now it's my fault we met Medusa."

Anthony straightened. In a bad imitation of my voice, he said: "'It's just a photo, Anthony. What's the harm?'"

Poseidon glared.

"He is still annoying," said Apollo.

"Forget it," I said. "You're impossible."

"You're insufferable."

"You're—"

"They act like a married couple," commented Dionysus, before his uncle shot him a glacial look, making the god of wine nearly sh*t his pants.

"Hey!" Grover interrupted. "You two are giving me a migraine, and satyrs don't even get migraines. What are we going to do with the head?"

I stared at the thing. One little snake was hanging out of a hole in the plastic. The words printed on the side of the bag said: WE APPRECIATE YOUR BUSINESS!

I was angry, not just with Anthony or his mom, but with all the gods for this whole quest, for getting us blown off the road and in two major fights the very first day out from camp. At this rate, we'd never make it to L.A. alive, much less before the summer solstice.

"I'd be angry too," said Hercules, with Ares and Apollo nodding.

What had Medusa said?

Do not be a pawn of the Olympians, my dear. You would be better off as a statue.

"I do not like the fact of those alternate gods would treat their children like pawns," Rhea stated.

Hades frowned, crossing his arms as his gaze darkened. "It's disgraceful. Gods or not, we should never treat our own blood as expendable."

I got up. "I'll be back."

"Percy," Anthony called after me. "What are you—"

"Ooh, I wonder what she's going to do?" Loki said, intrigued.

I searched the back of the warehouse until I found Medusa's office. Her account book showed her six most recent sales, all shipments to the Underworld to decorate Hades and Persephone's garden. According to one freight bill, the Underworld's billing address was DOA Recording Studios, West Hollywood, California. I folded up the bill and stuffed it in my pocket.

Persephone frowned. "So my alternate self is trapped too?" she said quietly, hoping her husband Hades wouldn't hear her.

Unfortunately, he did and looked at her sadly.

In the cash register I found twenty dollars, a few golden drachmas, and some packing slips for Hermes Overnight Express, each with a little leather bag attached for coins. I rummaged around the rest of the office until I found the right-size box.

All the deities were curiously observing her actions.

I went back to the picnic table, packed up Medusa's head, and filled out a delivery slip:

The Gods

Mount Olympus

600th Floor,

Empire State Building

New York, NY

With best wishes,

PERCILLA "PERCY" JACKSON

Once again, there was silence, as everyone in the Council of Valhalla looked stunned.

"What the f*ck?" Adamas whispered from his hiding place.

"Oh my f*cking gods!" shouted Indra. "Did she just do that?!"

Thor blinked slowly. "That is quite bold of her."

Zeus shook his head, chuckling. "This girl has guts."

Loki grinned. "I knew she'd do something fun."

Hercules scratched his head. "Well, that's one way to make a delivery."

Ares burst out laughing. "She's got more nerve than half the gods I know!"

Then everyone else erupted into laughter.

Zeus laughed uncontrollably, but neither Hera nor Rhea bothered to reprimand him.

Rhea wiped a tear. "My granddaughter is truly something special. Who would have thought she'd handle a Gorgon's head like a parcel?"

Hades gave a low chuckle of amusement, shaking his head in disbelief.

Poseidon smirked, equally amused. "I have to admit, I admire her audacity," he said, leaning back and crossing his arms. "It takes a certain bravery to toy with the likes of Medusa and still walk away unscathed." His expression shifted slightly, a hint of pride flickering beneath the surface.

"They're not going to like that," Grover warned. "They'll think you're impertinent."

I poured some golden drachmas in the pouch. As soon as I closed it, there was a sound like a cash register. The package floated off the table and disappeared with a pop!

"I am impertinent," I said.

"That she is," chuckled Apollo, still not over what she had just done.

I looked at Anthony, daring him to criticize.

He didn't. He seemed resigned to the fact that I had a major talent for ticking off the gods. "Come on," he muttered. "We need a new plan."

The scene ended.

"This is probably my favorite scene so far," Zeus remarked. "What about the rest of you?"

Chapter Text

(Present)

"No."

One word, and the world seemed to stop. Even the ocean, so full of life moments before, now lay still and silent, as if every creature within was afraid to make a sound.

Percy blinked, confused.

"No? No what? What the hell are you all talking about?" Her frustration was mounting. It was becoming an intolerable habit for everyone around her to keep her in the dark.

Rhea's gaze darkened as she turned to her disobedient son, her divine form beginning to glow with a menacing light. Even Hades and Zeus instinctively stepped back, keeping a wary distance from their mother.

"Poseidon..." the Titaness' voice was a low, dangerous rumble, "Tell her what you've been keeping from her. Tell her right now."

"Keeping what from me?" Percy shouted, her frustration boiling over. "What the hell is going on?!"

Poseidon, however, remained silent, his expression unreadable as he stared back at his primordial mother without flinching.

Zeus, feeling the tension escalate, spoke with clear apprehension. "Brother, what are you doing? You've never disobeyed our mother before!"

Hades, ever the voice of measured warning, narrowed his gaze at Poseidon. "If you plan to do something reckless, I will intervene. Don't make me come over there, brother."

Rhea's tone softened, but it was no less commanding. "My son, I ask you one last time—tell her the truth. Tell her what she is to you."

Poseidon's response was cold, final. "She is my wife."

The revelation struck like lightning, leaving the gods around him in stunned silence.

Percy's eyes widened in disbelief. "What? No! I am not your wife, and I will never marry you!"

"Yet," Poseidon replied coolly, his eyes unwavering, "but that will change. Our fight is far from over."

The mention of their ongoing battle snapped Percy back into focus, her body tensing.

"You're right. Are we going to resu—" Her words were cut off abruptly as something struck the back of her head. Her vision went black before she could react, and she crumpled, unconscious.

Poseidon had swiftly struck her on the head with the base of his trident.

He caught her limp body in his arms before she could hit the sea floor, his expression unreadable as he cradled her close, ignoring the shocked stares of the gods around him.

Zeus was the first to break the stunned silence, his voice filled with outrage. "That was a cheap shot, brother!" His eyes flashed with anger, lightning crackling in the sky above the ocean. "You call that a fair fight? Knocking her out like that?"

Hades surged forward, fury evident on his face. "That was dishonorable," he said coldly. "You didn't even give her a chance to defend herself. Is that what you call victory, Poseidon? Striking her down when she wasn't prepared?"

Even Rhea, who had been holding her fury in check, could no longer contain herself. Her divine form blazed with power as she floated forward, her very presence making the seas tremble. "How dare you, Poseidon!" Her voice was sharp, like a blade cutting through the silence. "You dishonor not only yourself but the nature of divinity! Knocking someone unconscious is wrong and ungodly! I cannot believe you did that!"

But Poseidon remained calm, his grip on Percy's unconscious form unwavering. His gaze was steady, unaffected by the anger of his family.

"I made no rules about our fight," he said indifferently. "Only that she must defeat me to return to her world. Our fight was still ongoing, even when you all interrupted us." He paused, glancing down at Percy's limp form in his arms.

Percy's face looked peaceful, even in unconsciousness. Poseidon took in every detail—the way her dark hair framed her face, the faint freckles scattered across her nose, and the soft curve of her lips. Her closed eyes were framed by long lashes that brushed delicately against her cheeks, adding to her undeniable beauty. He marveled at her strength, her fiery defiance. She was unlike anyone he had ever encountered, and the thought of her as his Empress stirred something deep within him, making him clutch her form more possessively.

"Poseidon, let go of her," Hades warned, his voice cold and commanding. His eyes burned with disapproval as he swam closer. "You've already dishonored yourself by striking her down. Don't make this worse."

Poseidon, still cradling Percy, didn't move, his grip tightening ever so slightly as he looked down at her. He barely acknowledged his brother's words, his focus remaining on the woman he held in his arms.

"She is mine," he said quietly, but with a dangerous edge in his voice. "And I will decide when to let her go."

The God of the Underworld narrowed his eyes, his expression darkening.

"Stop being a spoiled brat, Poseidon!" Hades shouted in rage. "She is not your fucking toy!"

"How dare you insult me, Hades!" Poseidon yelled back. "And you do not get to order me!"

Both brothers met each other's furious gazes head-on. An electrical current seemed to pass between them as they engaged in an intense stare-down.

"Umm... my brothers... can you please calm yourselves?" Zeus said hesitantly, trying to dispel the tension. Then he turned to Rhea. "Mother, do something, or they'll fight each other!"

But the Titaness didn't budge.

"No, your brother Hades can handle it," Rhea said determinedly as she watched the tense exchange between Hades and Poseidon. "And if it comes to that, then let them fight."

"I'll say it one last time, let go of Percilla now!" Hades demanded, his voice resonating with a power that made the water around them shudder.

Poseidon shook his head, his expression hardening. "No."

Before anyone could react, a sudden, blinding flash of light erupted between them. In an instant, Hades moved, snatching Percy from Poseidon's arms with a speed that belied his usual measured demeanor.

Poseidon's fury ignited like a wildfire. "Hades!" he roared, his voice echoing across the ocean depths. Without thinking, he surged forward, his trident gleaming with raw power as he aimed it at his brother. But even in his rage, he was careful, ensuring his attack would not harm his beloved Percilla.

Hades, still holding Percy securely, glared back, his purple eyes narrowing. "I won't let you keep her like a prize, brother!"

The ocean churned violently around them, waves rising in response to Poseidon's wrath. He unleashed a torrent of water, sending it crashing toward Hades. The God of the Underworld braced himself, using shadows to envelop Percy and shield her from the turbulent assault.

"Calm yourself, Poseidon!" Hades shouted, standing his ground. "You think this will win her over? You're only proving how reckless you are!"

"I'll show you reckless!" Poseidon shot back, slashing his trident through the water, creating a vortex that spiraled toward Hades. But Hades countered with a wave of darkness, their powers colliding in a dazzling display of light and shadow that sent ripples across the ocean.

Zeus watched in horror, his voice raised in desperation. "Both of you, stop this! You're making fools of yourselves!"

While he is usually eager for any battle, seeing a serious fight between his brothers is something that fills him with dread, as he understands the catastrophic consequences their rage could unleash upon the world.

Rhea, on the other hand, watched the confrontation between her sons collectedly.

But the brothers were too lost in their conflict. Poseidon's anger boiled over as he leaped into the fray, a tempest of sea and fury. With a quick thrust of his trident, he summoned a wave meant to sweep Hades off his feet, but Hades merely sidestepped, using his shadows to pull Percy further from the chaos.

Hades summoned his bident, its dark metal gleaming ominously as he faced Poseidon, the air crackling around them. With a swift motion, he commanded his shadows to envelop Percy, carrying her to safety towards his mother and Zeus before he turned to confront his brother. With a furious roar, Poseidon lunged forward, thrusting his trident toward Hades. The clash of their weapons rang out like thunder, the trident and bident meeting in a violent collision that sent shockwaves through the ocean, creating whirlpools and rippling waves that echoed their fury. Each god pushed against the other, the power of the sea clashing with the shadows of the Underworld, neither willing to yield as the tumult of their struggle reverberated around them. As their weapons locked, the world seemed to hold its breath.

Chapter Text

(Present)

The clash of divine forces echoed through the ocean as Poseidon and Hades engaged in brutal combat. The once-peaceful waters surged with fury, waves rising as Poseidon summoned the depths of the sea to aid him. Hades, shrouded in shadows, retaliated with equal ferocity, dark tendrils reaching out like claws to ensnare his brother's strength.

"You think you can defeat me, brother?" Hades taunted, his voice a low growl that reverberated through the water. He twisted his bident expertly, deflecting Poseidon's relentless attacks. Each clash sent ripples of energy cascading through the ocean, churning the waters into a froth of chaos.

"You've always underestimated me, brother!" Poseidon roared as he pressed forward. He summoned a tidal wave, its crest towering high above them, ready to crash down upon Hades. But the God of the Underworld was prepared. With a flick of his wrist, he conjured a barrier of darkness, absorbing the wave's impact as it dissipated into harmless mist.

Hades smirked, a shadowy grin that promised malice. "You should know by now that I thrive in the dark. You may rule the sea, but I control the depths of despair." He lunged forward, his bident aimed at Poseidon's heart, but the sea god sidestepped, countering with a sweeping arc of his trident that sent water splashing wildly, catching Hades off guard.

"You rely too much on your shadows," Poseidon said, his voice booming as he summoned a whirlpool to engulf his brother. The swirling waters pulled at Hades, threatening to drag him under. Yet, the God of Darkness was no novice to the ways of battle. He grinned as shadows flickered and danced around him, allowing him to meld into the depths, evading the onslaught with ease.

As the battle raged on, the very ocean trembled under the weight of their divine powers. Each strike of their weapons created shockwaves that resonated through the sea, shaking the underwater world to its core. Many species of marine life scattered in terror, and the distant cries of sea creatures echoed in the chaos as the gods fought for supremacy.

"You should know I will not back down," Hades declared, his voice icy with resolve. With renewed vigor, he sent a wave of darkness surging toward Poseidon, attempting to ensnare him in tendrils of shadow. Poseidon responded by summoning the might of the ocean, creating a massive wave that crashed down upon Hades, breaking through the dark barrier.

The impact sent Hades spiraling backward, his grip on his bident faltering for a moment. Poseidon seized the opportunity, charging forward with fierce determination. He thrust his trident toward Hades, aiming for a decisive blow, but the Lord of Darkness regained his composure, using his shadows to bind Poseidon's trident mid-strike.

"You think your power can bind me?" Poseidon growled, exerting his strength against Hades' grip. The clash of their powers illuminated the depths with a brilliant display of light and shadow, revealing the raw energy coursing between them. With a sudden surge of adrenaline, Poseidon pushed against the darkness, breaking free and launching himself toward Hades with renewed fury.

Hades, undeterred, retaliated with a fierce counterattack. "You'll regret underestimating the darkness!" he bellowed, sending forth another wave of shadows that encircled Poseidon, tightening like a noose. The ocean around them twisted and roiled as Poseidon struggled against the suffocating grip, his heart pounding with rage.

"Back down, Poseidon!" Hades commanded.

"Never!" Poseidon screamed. He summoned every ounce of his power, channeling the ferocity of the sea itself as he unleashed a torrent of water mixed with shards of ice that crashed through Hades' shadowy binds. The force of his power was palpable, and for a brief moment, it seemed as if he might overpower his brother.

As Poseidon readied his next strike, a sudden surge of dark energy rippled through the water. Hades' power flared violently, creating a shockwave so immense it tore through the ocean itself. The force sent both gods spiraling toward the surface, the sea parting in a tremendous display of divine might. A vortex of shadows and water formed beneath them, lifting them into the air as the churning sea below struggled to mend the rupture in its depths. The battle was no longer confined to the ocean's embrace; it now ascended into the sky.

Poseidon's body burst from the water in a spiral of shimmering droplets, his form trailing mist as he surged upward. The sea god hovered in the stormy skies, rain pouring down in sheets as the atmosphere roared in sympathy with his fury. Thunder crackled around him, lightning illuminating his trident with an ethereal glow.

From below, Hades rose like a dark wraith, shadows swirling around him, shaping into tendrils that seemed to reach toward the heavens. His presence commanded the night itself, and as he emerged from the vortex, the ocean waters below churned, twisted by his dark magic. The clash of their powers had reshaped the very elements; the sea and sky seemed to rage in harmony with their battle.

Now standing on the threshold between sea and storm, Poseidon's eyes blazed. Across from him, Hades materialized fully, stepping out from the spiraling shadows that clung to him like a shroud.

"Release her!" Poseidon thundered, his voice resonating like the roar of the ocean. The very ground trembled beneath his feet, sending tremors through the sand. "You do not have the right to keep her in your grasp!" His fury was not just for his beloved, but for the very act of Hades daring to defy him.

Hades remained calm, a smirk playing on his lips. "And what will you do about it, Poseidon? You think you can frighten me with your demands?" He stepped forward, shadows dancing around him, twisting and writhing like serpents.

Without warning, Poseidon hurled his trident, a spear of water and ice, aimed directly at Hades. The water shimmered with ethereal light, but Hades merely raised a hand, summoning a barrier of darkness. The two forces collided with a resounding crack, sending waves crashing against the shore and dark tendrils spiraling into the air.

Hades, forced to retreat to a nearby island, found the ground beneath him shaking violently. Poseidon had called upon earthquakes, splitting the earth and sending jagged cliffs crashing into the sea. Hades barely dodged, shadows whisking him away from the crumbling terrain. Yet, even as the ground trembled and storms raged around them, Hades stood resolute.

"You think storms and quakes will work on me?" Hades's voice was cold and mocking. "I have survived worse in the Underworld, Poseidon."

Poseidon hurled his trident with all his might, a spear of pure oceanic wrath, its tip glowing with lightning. It sliced through the storm toward Hades, but the Lord of the Underworld raised his bident, summoning a wall of shadows that deflected the weapon. The trident veered off course, embedding itself in a cliffside, sending more debris tumbling into the sea.

Hades retaliated swiftly, summoning the spirits of the underworld. Wraiths emerged from the island, swirling around Poseidon like a tempest of despair.

"You ignore the depths of darkness," Hades remarked, his tone icy. "The earth shakes, the sea rises, and yet the shadows remain untouched."

With a roar, Poseidon summoned a wall of water, crashing it down upon the wraiths. The spirits screeched as the wave engulfed them, dissipating into nothingness. "You're a coward, Hades, hiding in your realm while I control the tides!" Poseidon declared, his eyes cold like the Arctic.

The sea god's connection to the ocean surged, the waters responding to his will. He conjured a massive tidal wave, towering like a wall of liquid fury, ready to crash upon Hades. The shadows thickened, swirling around Hades as he prepared his counterattack, darkness pooling in his palm.

"Your waves cannot touch the void," Hades intoned, thrusting his hand forward. A ripple of darkness surged outward, meeting Poseidon's wave with a clash of elemental forces. The beach erupted in chaos, water and shadow entwining in a violent dance, creating a storm that shook the very foundations of the earth.

Poseidon pushed through the struggle, using the ocean's power to propel himself closer to Hades. "I will not let you take Percilla from me!" He lunged forward, his trident aimed for Hades' heart, embodying the very fury of the sea.

Hades smirked, vanishing into a swirl of shadows just as Poseidon struck. The trident met empty air, and Hades materialized behind him, dark tendrils wrapping around Poseidon's arms, binding him. "It's for the best that she is out of your reach, Poseidon. She will never feel safe with you. Percilla is better off without you. You think you can challenge me without consequences?" Hades continue to taunt.

With a grunt of effort, Poseidon summoned his strength, calling upon the water to surge beneath him. The tide roared in response, and with a powerful burst, he shattered Hades' bindings, sending shadows scattering like smoke. "You will never hold me down, brother!" he shouted, fury igniting anew.

The two gods squared off, the clash of their powers sending ripples through the entire realm. The fight was far from over.

Poseidon launched another attack, sending a spear of water toward Hades. This time, he infused it with the fury of a tempest, lightning crackling around it as it cut through the air. Hades merely raised an eyebrow, darkness swirling around him as he prepared his next move.

With a wave of his hand, Hades conjured a vortex of shadows that swallowed the water spear whole, dissipating its energy into nothingness. "Is this all you have, Poseidon?" Hades mocked, his voice a chilling whisper. "You're clinging to the waves while I command the very essence of death."

The tide of battle began to turn as Poseidon felt the weight of Hades' power pressing down on him. The air thickened with shadows, coiling around his legs and threatening to drag him into the abyss. He struggled against the dark tendrils, frustration boiling within him. "I will not yield!" he yelled, summoning every ounce of strength he had left.

Hades stepped forward, eyes gleaming with dark triumph. "You don't understand, do you? This fight was never just about her. It's about dominance." With a flick of his wrist, he summoned a wave of spectral energy that struck Poseidon with a force like a crashing wave. The sea god stumbled, his footing faltering as the shadows seeped into his mind, sowing doubt and fear.

The ocean surged in response to Poseidon's call, yet the darkness was relentless. Hades could feel the tide of despair washing over his brother, sensing his weakening resolve. "You've always relied on the sea," Hades taunted. "But now, you will see that even the strongest tide can be tamed."

Gritting his teeth, Poseidon fought back, focusing on the ocean's energy, trying to harness its power. But as he raised his trident once more, Hades unleashed a powerful wave of dark energy that shattered Poseidon's concentration. The shadows swirled and thickened, giving form to skeletal figures infused with darkness. These shadow-bound skeletons surged toward Poseidon, their bony hands gripping him tightly, their strength far beyond that of ordinary creatures.

The skeletal soldiers clung to him with relentless force, their hollow eyes glowing with an eerie light. Poseidon roared in frustration, thrashing against the dark bonds, but with each movement, more of the skeletons rose from the shadows, locking their cold, dead fingers around his arms and legs. They drained his strength with every passing moment, their grasp like the icy grip of the underworld itself.

"It's over, Poseidon," Hades declared, stepping closer, his eyes gleaming with dark triumph. "You cannot fight what you cannot break." With one final gesture, Hades unleashed a torrent of shadows, summoning even more skeletons, who bound Poseidon tighter, their bones clattering as they climbed onto him, pinning him to the ground.

Poseidon struggled violently against the skeletal horde, but their combined weight and strength were overwhelming. His trident clattered to the ground as they pried it from his grasp, their bony fingers wrapping around his wrists and shoulders, making it impossible for him to summon the ocean's full power. Every time he tried to move, the skeletons locked tighter around him, their shadow-infused bodies making them almost impossible to destroy.

Hades stood over his fallen brother, his expression unreadable, though his voice carried a weight of finality. "You've always been headstrong, Poseidon. Too proud, too reckless. But I won't kill you. I never intended to." He raised a hand, and the skeletons tightened their grip even further, forcing Poseidon completely immobile, his muscles straining against the unyielding hold. "You are my brother, after all. But you must be stopped."

Poseidon snarled, straining with all his might, but the shadow-infused skeletons were relentless. "This isn't over, Hades!" he growled, his voice hoarse from the effort. The sea continued to churn violently in response to his frustration, waves crashing against the shore with unchecked fury, yet unable to dislodge the dark creatures that bound him.

Hades shook his head, his tone softening slightly. "It is over, for now. You need to learn that not everything can be controlled by force, least of all Percilla. Take it from my experience." He gestured, and the skeletons shifted, wrapping even tighter around Poseidon, locking him in place with unbreakable binds. Their bony forms glowed faintly with an ethereal darkness, ensuring no escape. "These bonds will hold you until you've calmed down. Once you regain some sense, maybe then we can talk like brothers again."

Poseidon's eyes blazed with fury, but he said nothing. He continued to struggle, his pride unwilling to admit defeat, even as the skeletal soldiers held him fast, their cold grip seeping into his very core.

Hades turned, his white coattails billowing as he prepared to leave. "Rest, Poseidon. I'll visit you when I have the time." His voice echoed as he began to fade into the shadows, leaving his brother bound on the island, surrounded by the skeletons.

And just like that, Hades was gone, leaving Poseidon alone in the storm, his body pinned by the skeletal guards. The waves crashed violently around the island, but no amount of fury could break the hold of his brother's shadow-forged soldiers.

For now, Poseidon was trapped—left with nothing but his thoughts and the distant, haunting sound of the sea.

Chapter Text

Note: There will be  8  gods in the harem. They are: Poseidon, Hades, Apollo, Beelzebub, Anubis, Buddha,  Thor,  and Loki

The gods nodded, many still recovering from laughter, while others appeared contemplative.

"She has quite the spark, doesn't she?" Hades mused, a faint smile on his lips.

Ares grinned. "That girl doesn't hold back. She's got fire in her—makes me wish I could be there to guide her."

"She is definitely no ordinary demigod," Beelzebub muttered from his spot, fascinated by the girl's audacity in disrespecting the gods.

"Well," Rhea said, raising her chin slightly, "regardless of her boldness, we'll have to see how the Olympians of that universe respond to such... a unique gift. Though, I foresee they'll be livid."

"Let them be livid," Poseidon muttered under his breath.

The next title appears:

We Get Advice From A Poodle

The gods stared at the new title on the screen, blinking in disbelief.

"A poodle?" Ares said, his voice cracking with laughter. "Wait—advice from a poodle? What kind of quest is this?"

"Is this some sort of joke?" Hera muttered, her regal composure momentarily slipping as she struggled to process the absurdity.

Buddha smirked, shaking his head. "First Medusa, now a poodle. This is certainly not what I expected when I tuned in."

Shiva burst out laughing. "I'm starting to think this whole adventure is just one big cosmic prank. What's next, a talking squirrel giving life lessons?"

Apollo rubbed his temples, sighing. "I should have known things would get weirder. Why does this sound like something Hercules would come up with?"

"Hey!" Hercules yelled.

"I must say," Loki chimed in, barely containing his amusement, "advice from a poodle? I can't wait to see how that plays out."

Poseidon doesn't look amused.

We were pretty miserable that night.
We camped out in the woods, a hundred yards from the main road, in a marshy clearing that local kids had obviously been using for parties. The ground was littered with flattened soda cans and fast-food wrappers.

The gods grimaced at the mess. Hermes and the nature gods looked pissed as fuck at the sight of the litter.

Hermes clenched his fists. "Mortals have no respect for the land anymore," he muttered. "How can Lord Chaos expect us not to destroy humanity?"

Jarilo, the Slavic god of vegetation, barely containing his anger, growled, "It's no wonder many habitats are dying. They treat the world like a trash bin."

We'd taken some food and blankets from Aunty Em's, but we didn't dare light a fire to dry our damp clothes. The Furies and Medusa had provided enough excitement for one day. We didn't want to attract anything else.

Ares, Thor, and Hercules gave approving nods.

"Smart call," Ares grunted. "Better to stay cold than dead."

Hercules chuckled. "Not bad for a bunch of kids."

Thor smirked. "They're learning."

We decided to sleep in shifts. I volunteered to take first watch.

"She shouldn't have to," Poseidon growled, , his eyes narrowing as he glared at the screen. "If her father were handling things properly, she wouldn't be out there, cold and vulnerable."

Hades, Zeus, and Rhea exchanged concerned glances without saying anything.

Anthony curled up on the blankets and was snoring as soon as his head hit the ground. Grover fluttered with his flying shoes to the lowest bough of a tree, put his back to the trunk, and stared at the night sky.

"Go ahead and sleep," I told him. "I'll wake you if there's trouble."

He nodded, but still didn't close his eyes. "It makes me sad, Percy."

"What does? The fact that you signed up for this stupid quest?"

"The quest and the gods of that universe are stupid," Zeus stated. "If my counterpart and his brothers didn't act like children instead of gods, the demigods wouldn't have to do their dirty work for them."

"No. This makes me sad." He pointed at all the garbage on the ground. "And the sky. You can't even see the stars. They've polluted the sky. This is a terrible time to be a satyr."

Nyx frowned. "The stars are meant to guide and inspire, yet mortals have dimmed their light with their carelessness. It's heartbreaking."

Khonsu, the Egyptian god of the moon, crossed his arms, his expression darkening. "It's not just heartbreaking; it's infuriating. They treat the earth as their personal playground, oblivious to the consequences. If they don't start respecting the world we've provided, they might find themselves facing a reckoning they won't be able to escape."

"Oh, yeah. I guess you'd be an environmentalist."

He glared at me. "Only a human wouldn't be. Your species is clogging up the world so fast ... ah, nevermind. It's useless to lecture a human. At the rate things are going, I'll never find Pan."

Hermes and the rest of the Greek gods perked up, their ears attentive.

"My son?" the messenger god said.

As not all the gods are present at the Council of Valhalla, Pan, the Greek god of the wilds, is one of those absent due to his connection with satyrs.

"Pam? Like the cooking spray?"

Buddha let out a snort.

"Pan!" he cried indignantly. "P-A-N. The great god Pan! What do you think I want a searcher's license for?"

"Why would the satyr need to look for my son's counterpart?" Asked Hermes in wonderment.

A strange breeze rustled through the clearing, tem-porarily overpowering the stink of trash and muck. It brought the smell of berries and wildflowers and clean rain-water, things that might've once been in these woods. Suddenly I was nostalgic for something I'd never known.

"That's strange," Hades commented.

"Tell me about the search," I said.

Grover looked at me cautiously, as if he were afraid I was just making fun.

"The God of Wild Places disappeared two thousand years ago," he told me. "A sailor off the coast of Ephesos heard a mysterious voice crying out from the shore, 'Tell them that the great god Pan has died!' When humans heard the news, they believed it. They've been pillaging Pan's kingdom ever since. But for the satyrs, Pan was our lord and master. He protected us and the wild places of the earth. We refuse to believe that he died. In every generation, the bravest satyrs pledge their lives to finding Pan. They search the earth, exploring all the wildest places, hoping to find where he is hidden, and wake him from his sleep."

Hermes' eyes widened. "Pan's counterpart is dead? How?"

Odin looked serious. "It could be that another god killed him, or he was slain by a divine weapon, if that universe uses such things."

How weak, Poseidon thought in disgust.

"And you want to be a searcher."

"It's my life's dream," he said. "My father was a searcher. And my Uncle Ferdinand ... the statue you saw back there—"

"Oh, right, sorry."

Grover shook his head. "Uncle Ferdinand knew the risks. So did my dad. But I'll succeed. I'll be the first searcher to return alive."

"Hang on— the first?"

Grover took his reed pipes out of his pocket. "No searcher has ever come back. Once they set out, they disappear. They're never seen alive again."

"How unfortunate," Leto commented.

"Not once in two thousand years?"

"No."

"And your dad? You have no idea what happened to him?"

"None."

"But you still want to go," I said, amazed. "I mean, you really think you'll be the one to find Pan?"

"I have to believe that, Percy. Every searcher does. It's the only thing that keeps us from despair when we look at what humans have done to the world. I have to believe Pan can still be awakened."

"Wow...the satyrs of that universe sounds more honorable than the ones we have," Zeus remarked.

Artemis nodded thoughtfully. "Their dedication to nature is commendable. It's a shame our satyrs lack that same sense of purpose."

Apollo leaned back, tapping his chin. "Two thousand years without a single success, though? Sounds like a death wish. But hey, if anyone could wake the alternate Pan, it might be this one. He's got heart."

Ares grunted. "Heart won't get you far when you're up against nature's wrath or gods who don't want Pan's counterpart to come back."

"True," Athena said quietly, her eyes narrowing. "But it does show a certain resilience. If Grover succeeds, it can bring balance to the wild places humans have corrupted."

Hades remained silent, but his expression softened. "If the god can be awakened, it would restore more than just the wilds. It would restore their faith."

I stared at the orange haze of the sky and tried to understand how Grover could pursue a dream that seemed so hopeless. Then again, was I any better?

"How are we going to get into the Underworld?" I asked him. "I mean, what chance do we have against a god?"

The gods sat up straighter at Percy's question, the mood in the room shifting.

Hades frowned. "The Underworld is not a place for demigods or mortals to stroll through. If they aren't prepared, they'll be lost before they even set foot in the realm."

Poseidon's gaze hardened as he looked at the screen. The fact that the girl has to face this challenge with so little protection bothers him. She shouldn't be going there at all.

"I don't know," he admitted. "But back at Medusa's, when you were searching her office? Anthony was telling me—"

"Oh, I forgot. Anthony will have a plan all figured out."

"Don't be so hard on him, Percy. He's had a tough life, but he's a good person. After all, he forgave me...." His voice faltered.

Athena looked concerned.

What kind of life did my son have? She thought.

"What did the satyr do to the half-ling?" Hephaestus asked.

"What do you mean?" I asked. "Forgave you for what?"

Suddenly, Grover seemed very interested in playing notes on his pipes.

"Wait a minute," I said. "Your first keeper job was five years ago. Anthony has been at camp five years. He wasn't ... I mean, your first assignment that went wrong—"

"I can't talk about it," Grover said, and his quivering lower lip suggested he'd start crying if I pressed him.

"Her insight is quite sensitive," Susano'o remarked.

"But as I was saying, back at Medusa's, Anthony and I agreed there's something strange going on with this quest. Something isn't what it seems."

"Well, duh. I'm getting blamed for stealing a thunderbolt that Hades took."

"That's not what I mean," Grover said. "The Fur—The Kindly Ones were sort of holding back. Like Mrs. Dodds at Yancy Academy ... why did she wait so long to try to kill you? Then on the bus, they just weren't as aggressive as they could've been."

"That's true. Something's up," said Shiva.

Athena furrowed her brow. "He's right. The Furies weren't holding back. If they had a clear opportunity to kill Percy, they would've taken it. This hesitation suggests something more is at play."

Hermes looked thoughtful. "Could be that they're waiting for orders. Or maybe someone's manipulating events from behind the scenes."

"Or they're toying with their prey," Ares grumbled. "Testing the waters, seeing how much fight they've got before going for the kill."

Hades' eyes narrowed. "If the Furies are holding back, then someone more powerful is likely pulling the strings. Perhaps even a higher god from that universe."

Poseidon clenched his fist, his eyes narrowing. "This quest is a trap."

"Well, if it is a trap, then they'll need to be clever to avoid it. Quests rarely go as expected," said Ra-Horakhty, surprisingly speaking up.

Hestia frowned. "Whatever is happening, there's more at stake here than just a stolen weapon. I fear the consequences may be far greater than they realize."

"They seemed plenty aggressive to me."

Grover shook his head. "They were screeching at us: 'Where is it? Where?'"

"Asking about me," I said.

Apollo chuckled. "You are not an 'it'."

"Maybe ... but Anthony and I, we both got the feeling they weren't asking about a person. They said 'Where is it ?' They seemed to be asking about an object."

"That doesn't make sense."

Could it be another stolen weapon? Beelzebub and Brunhilde thought at the same time.

"I know. But if we've misunderstood something about this quest, and we only have nine days to find the master bolt...." He looked at me like he was hoping for answers, but I didn't have any.
I thought about what Medusa had said: I was being used by the gods. What lay ahead of me was worse than petrification.

Rhea's expression darkened. "Exploiting demigods in this way is dishonorable. They should be given a chance to live their lives, not thrown into schemes."

Poseidon nodded. "Gods using mortals to clean up their messes is pathetic."

Hades frowned deeply. "If they are truly using these children to manipulate the balance of power, it's a dangerous and reckless gamble. They forget the cost."

Hestia sighed, her gaze troubled. "This is not how the gods should act. Demigods should be protected, not used as tools for their ambitions."

"I haven't been straight with you," I told Grover. "I don't care about the master bolt. I agreed to go to the Underworld so I could bring back my mother."

Grover blew a soft note on his pipes. "I know that, Percy. But are you sure that's the only reason?"

"I'm not doing it to help my father. He doesn't care about me. I don't care about him."

Poseidon's hatred for his alternate self spiked once more.

Grover gazed down from his tree branch. "Look, Percy, I'm not as smart as Anthony. I'm not as brave as you. But I'm pretty good at reading emotions. You're glad your dad is alive. You feel good that he's claimed you, and part of you wants to make him proud. That's why you mailed Medusa's head to Olympus. You wanted him to notice what you'd done."

Ares, Apollo, Dionysus, and all the minor gods felt a surge of fear at the sight of Poseidon's fury.

"Poseidon, stop it," Rhea scolded.

"Yeah? Well maybe satyr emotions work differently than human emotions. Because you're wrong. I don't care what he thinks."

Grover pulled his feet up onto the branch. "Okay, Percy. Whatever."

"Besides, I haven't done anything worth bragging about. We barely got out of New York and we're stuck here with no money and no way west."

"Haven't done anything worth bragging about? Is she serious?" Apollo said in disbelief.

Zeus scoffed. "Surviving an attack from the Furies on a bus is no small feat, especially for a demigod that young."

Hermes chuckled. "Not to mention killing Medusa and managing to escape without any proper resources."

Hades raised an eyebrow. "Underestimating herself will only make the challenges ahead harder. She needs to realize her worth soon."

Poseidon internally agreed with everything that was said.

Grover looked at the night sky, like he was thinking about that problem. "How about I take first watch, huh? You get some sleep."

I wanted to protest, but he started to play Mozart, soft and sweet, and I turned away, my eyes stinging.

After a few bars of Piano Concerto no. 12, I was asleep.

In my dreams, I stood in a dark cavern before a gaping pit. Gray mist creatures churned all around me, whispering rags of smoke that I somehow knew were the spirits of the dead.

"Oh no. I have a feeling it's that kind of dream again," Morpheus said.

Every deity started to look worried, especially Poseidon.

They tugged at my clothes, trying to pull me back, but I felt compelled to walk forward to the very edge of the chasm.

Looking down made me dizzy.

The pit yawned so wide and was so completely black, I knew it must be bottomless. Yet I had a feeling that something was trying to rise from the abyss, something huge and evil.

The little heroine , an amused voice echoed far down in the darkness.  Too weak, too young, but perhaps you will do.

"It's that same evil voice from before!" Ares yelled in shock.

All the deities were suddenly on edge.

The voice felt ancient—cold and heavy. It wrapped around me like sheets of lead.

They have misled you, girl , it said.  Barter with me. I will give you what you want.

The Greek gods are currently trying to figure out who is speaking to her.

A shimmering image hovered over the void: my mother, frozen at the moment she'd dissolved in a shower of gold. Her face was distorted with pain, as if the Minotaur were still squeezing her neck.

Many gods felt pity for the girl at seeing the sight of her mother once more.

"Poor dear," Rhea said sadly.

Poseidon still didn't care.

Her eyes looked directly at me, pleading: Go!

I tried to cry out, but my voice wouldn't work. Cold laughter echoed from the chasm.

An invisible force pulled me forward. It would drag me into the pit unless I stood firm.

Zeus, Hades, Poseidon, and Adamas had murderous looks on their faces. They wanted to kill whoever was tormenting the girl.

"Who the fuck is it?!" Adamas snarled.

Help me rise, girl . The voice became hungrier.  Bring me the bolt. Strike a blow against the treacherous gods!

"She doesn't even have the bolt! Why is she being asked that?" Questioned Apollo.

"Could this being be behind the theft?" Hades wondered, having a feeling this mysterious being is involved.

Poseidon made his trident appear in his hand and gripped it as if he were ready to throw it at the screen.

The spirits of the dead whispered around me, No! Wake!

The image of my mother began to fade. The thing in the pit tightened its unseen grip around me. I realized it wasn't interested in pulling me in. It was using me to pull itself out.

Good , it murmured.  Good.

Wake! the dead whispered. Wake!

Someone was shaking me.

My eyes opened, and it was daylight.

The gods sigh in relief that she has awakened.

"Well," Anthony said, "the zombie lives."
I was trembling from the dream. I could still feel the grip of the chasm monster around my chest.

"How long was I asleep?"

"Long enough for me to cook breakfast."

Anthony tossed me a bag of nacho-flavored corn chips from Aunty Em's snack bar. "And Grover went exploring. Look, he found a friend."

My eyes had trouble focusing.

Grover was sitting cross-legged on a blanket with something fuzzy in his lap, a dirty, unnaturally pink stuffed animal.

The gods squinted their eyes at the sight of the pink thing.

"That must be the poodle that will give her advice?" Loki snickered.

No. It wasn't a stuffed animal. It was a pink poodle.

The poodle yapped at me suspiciously. Grover said, "No, he's not."

I blinked. "Are you ... talking to that thing?"

The poodle growled.

"This thing," Grover warned, "is our ticket west. Be nice to him."

"You can talk to animals?"

Grover ignored the question. "Percy, meet Gladiola. Gladiola, Percy."

I stared at Anthony, figuring he'd crack up at this practical joke they were playing on me, but he looked deadly serious.

"I'm not saying hello to a pink poodle," I said. "Forget it."

"Percy," Anthony said. "I said hello to the poodle. You say hello to the poodle."

Buddha, Shiva, Loki, and Anubis tried to stifle their laughter, sensing that this would be hilarious.

The poodle growled.

I said hello to the poodle.

The four couldn't help themselves and burst into laughter, while all of the other gods chuckled along.

Grover explained that he'd come across Gladiola in the woods and they'd struck up a conversation. The poodle had run away from a rich local family, who'd posted a $200 reward for his return. Gladiola didn't really want to go back to his family, but he was willing to if it meant helping Grover.

"How nice of the dog," said Cernunnos, the Celtic god of nature and animals.

"How does Gladiola know about the reward?" I asked.

"He read the signs," Grover said. "Duh."

"Of course," I said. "Silly me."

"So we turn in Gladiola," Anthony explained in his best strategy voice, "we get money, and we buy tickets to Los Angeles. Simple."

"Simple? Yeah, right," scoffed Dionysus. "They'll probably get into more danger."

I thought about my dream—the whispering voices of the dead, the thing in the chasm, and my mother's face, shimmering as it dissolved into gold. All that might be waiting for me in the West.

"Not another bus," I said warily.

"Definitely not," Hercules nodded.

"No," Anthony agreed.

He pointed downhill, toward train tracks I hadn't been able to see last night in the dark. "There's an Amtrak station half a mile that way. According to Gladiola, the west-bound train leaves at noon."

The scene ended.

"I feel like this is the shortest scene so far," Apollo stated.

"It probable was," said Artemis.

"I hope they will make it to Los Angeles safe and sound. She already dealt with Furies and a snake lady. What's the worst that can happen?" Ares said without thinking.

Everyone glared at the god of war, making him sweat bullets in fear.

Aphrodite sighed tiredly at her foolish lover.

Chapter Text

The next title appeared on the screen:

I Plunge To My Death

The gods' reaction was... chaotic.

Zeus immediately stood up, lightning crackling in his hand. "WHAT? Who dares show such a fate for a divine child?"

Hera gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. "How could it come to this?!"

Hades narrowed his eyes. "This can't be true. The girl's journey has just begun."

Poseidon, face dark with fury, slammed his trident into the ground, causing a tremor. "This must be some cruel joke. No one would dare take her life!"

Apollo, trying to lighten the mood, chuckled nervously. "Maybe it's just a metaphor? You know... dramatic storytelling?"

Hermes winced. "Not sure about that one, Apollo. It doesn't sound good."

Dionysus, sipping from his goblet, raised an eyebrow. "This better have a plot twist."

As the gods erupted into heated discussions, Rhea's calm voice cut through the chaos. "Enough. We will see what unfolds. If my granddaughter has truly fallen... we will come after the gods of that universe," she ended threateningly.

We spent two days on the Amtrak train, heading west through hills, over rivers, past amber waves of grain.

"Traveling by train is not the worst way to evade enemies. But it might not last for long." Hades stated.

Susano'o nodded thoughtfully. "It's good to keep moving, but the danger lies in constant visibility."

We weren't attacked once, but I didn't relax. I felt that we were traveling around in a display case, being watched from above and maybe from below, that something was waiting for the right opportunity.

Zeus huffed, folding his arms. "Of course she's being watched. Whoever is after her is likely keeping a close eye on her."

Poseidon scowled, clearly unsettled by the thought.

I tried to keep a low profile because my name and picture were splattered over the front pages of several East Coast newspapers. The Trenton Register-News showed a photo taken by a tourist as I got off the Greyhound bus. I had a wild look in my eyes. My sword was a metallic blur in my hands. It might've been a baseball bat or a lacrosse stick.

Hermes smirked, shaking his head. "There's nothing like having your face plastered across tabloids. She really needs a disguise next time."

Apollo chuckled. "She does have that hero look, doesn't she? All wild-eyed, sword in hand. It's practically made for headlines."

The picture's caption read:

Fourteen-year-old Percilla Jackson, wanted for questioning in the Long Island disappearance of her mother two weeks ago, is shown here fleeing from the bus where she accosted several elderly female passengers. The bus exploded on an east New Jersey roadside shortly after Jackson fled the scene. Based on eyewitness accounts, police believe the girl may be traveling with two teenage accomplices. Her stepfather, Gabe Ugliano, has offered a cash reward for information leading to her capture.

Just the mention of the awful stepfather's name activated every god's killing intent, with Hades, Poseidon, Zeus, Adamas, and Rhea with the worst of it.

"Don't worry," Anthony told me. "Mortal police could never find us." But he didn't sound so sure.

The rest of the day I spent alternately pacing the length of the train (because I had a really hard time sitting still) or looking out the windows.

Once, I spotted a family of centaurs galloping across a wheat field, bows at the ready, as they hunted lunch. The little boy centaur, who was the size of a second-grader on a pony, caught my eye and waved. I looked around the passenger car, but nobody else had noticed. The adult riders all had their faces buried in laptop computers or magazines.

While the gods are not fond of the centaurs, they have to admit the scene is quite adorable. Hopefully, the centaurs are as honorable as the satyrs in that world.

On the other hand, Poseidon sneered. He couldn't care less about those creatures.

Another time, toward evening, I saw something huge moving through the woods. I could've sworn it was a lion, except that lions don't live wild in America, and this thing was the size of a Hummer. Its fur glinted gold in the evening light. Then it leaped through the trees and was gone.

Artemis's eyes flashed with interest. "Perhaps, that is a Nemean lion she is seeing."

Apollo scoffed. "Or maybe it was just a trick of the light. I would know how those golden sunsets are."

Our reward money for returning Gladiola the poodle had only been enough to purchase tickets as far as Denver. We couldn't get berths in the sleeper car, so we dozed in our seats. My neck got stiff. I tried not to drool in my sleep, since Anthony was sitting right next to me.

Leto sighed. "Poor girl. She's trying to keep it together."

"I just wish they could sleep more comfortably," Hestia said sympathetically.

Poseidon would have preferred if she sat next to the goat boy rather than the half-breed.

Grover kept snoring and bleating and waking me up. Once, he shuffled around and his fake foot fell off. Anthony and I had to stick it back on before any of the other passengers noticed.

"So," Anthony asked me, once we'd gotten Grover's sneaker readjusted. "Who wants your help?"

"What do you mean?"

"When you were asleep just now, you mumbled, 'I won't help you.' Who were you dreaming about?"

How dare that half-breed insect watch her sleep! Poseidon thought furiously.

I was reluctant to say anything. It was the second time I'd dreamed about the evil voice from the pit. But it bothered me so much I finally told him.

Anthony was quiet for a long time. "That doesn't sound like Hades. He always appears on a black throne, and he never laughs."

The gods glared at the boy's image on the screen for speaking of a god in a disrespecting tone, even Athena.

Even though it was directed at Hades' counterpart, it felt like disrespecting their own Hades.

Poseidon and Adamas felt the urge to kill the boy for his audacity.

How dare he spoke of a god that way! They both thought simultaneously.

Hades looked unbothered. "Really? My counterpart never laughs? That's hard to believe. He needs to find some sort of joy, even in his domain."

"He offered my mother in trade. Who else could do that?"

"I guess ... if he meant, 'Help me rise from the Underworld.' If he wants war with the Olympians. But why ask you to bring him the master bolt if he already has it?"

"That is perplexing," Odin stated.

Hades frowned at the thought of his counterpart wanting to start a war. It was still a surprise to him that his alternate self and his siblings didn't get along.

I shook my head, wishing I knew the answer. I thought about what Grover had told me, that the Furies on the bus seemed to have been looking for something.

Where is it? Where?

Maybe Grover sensed my emotions. He snorted in his sleep, muttered something about vegetables, and turned his head.

Anthony readjusted his cap so it covered his horns. "Percy, you can't barter with Hades. You know that, right? He's deceitful, heartless, and greedy. I don't care if his Kindly Ones weren't as aggressive this time—"

Hades raised an elegant brow.

Poseidon seethed on his throne, while Adamas gripped his scythe tightly.

Rhea looked on disapprovingly.

"Okay, I've had enough of that half-ling!" Zeus shouted, breaking his armrest with his fist.

"That son of mine, even though he didn't come directly from me, needs to be disciplined!" Athena yelled uncharacteristically, to the surprise of the others. "If he were in my care instead of my counterpart's, I'd have already taught him a lesson about respect!"

"What does the demigod mean by 'this time'?" Artemis asked.

"This time?" I asked. "You mean you've run into them before?"

His hand crept up to his necklace. He fingered a glazed white bead painted with the image of a pine tree, one of his clay end-of-summer tokens. "Let's just say I've got no love for the Lord of the Dead. You can't be tempted to make a deal for your mom."

"And we have no love for you here," Loki snickered.

"What would you do if it was your dad?"

"That's easy," he said. "I'd leave him to rot."

Buddha blinked. "That's cold of him to say."

"You're not serious?"

Anthony's gray eyes fixed on me. He wore the same expression he'd worn in the woods at camp, the moment he drew his sword against the hellhound. "My dad's resented me since the day I was born, Percy," he said. "He never wanted a baby. When he got me, he asked Athena to take me back and raise me on Olympus because he was too busy with his work. She wasn't happy about that. She told him heroes had to be raised by their mortal parent."