I woke up slumped against a log next to a campfire. My head pounded angrily and my eyes hurt at the light shining into them. I saw Zoe nearby with a silver parka draped over her. My own hoodie was laying next to me covered in grass and smelt strongly of beer.

“Damn it, looks like I gotta wash this thing thoroughly” I grumbled to myself as I forced myself up and sit on the log

“Seems like you had a fun night Perseus” Someone commented and I looked around seeing most of the campers passed out around the area “Over here Perseus” The voice said amused

I turned back to the campfire and saw a girl sitting in the flames with a smile.

“Okay… am I still drunk? Scratch that, I totally am still drunk” I commented as I leaned back and prepared to go back to sleep

“Yes you are, but you are not seeing things. I am really here” She said with a giggle “You must not remember much from last night”

I thought back and tried to recollect what had happened during the party. I remembered playing a few rounds of beer pong with Zoe and Phoebe, then we got into an argument about what the rules were before we moved onto a game of volleyball. It was around the tenth drink that I started confusing things then after that it was all blank.

“Yeah… I didn’t do anything too stupid did I?” I asked while scratching my head slightly

“No, you were actually quite the gentleman. Helped most of the campers get to a more or less comfortable spot to sleep. You also asked Artemis if you could help carry the hunters to their cabin. Something she was not quite expecting.” The girl said with a smile “She thought you’d try something but in the end admitted that you only had pure intentions. Though I will admit, I’ve never seen my niece smile with such a conflicted expression before”

“Probably cause I beat her hunters…” I muttered as I stretched and cracked my neck “How did Zoe end up out here?”

“She wanted to ask you some things. When she fell asleep, Artemis had already left, so you asked me if I could keep an eye on her. To make sure nothing had happened to her and if you had any stupid ideas, to stop you” She giggled more this time holding her stomach “We had a pleasant conversation, you and I. I’ve learned much of your past and I am glad to say that you hold a spark of something that even some of these campers have lost” She said and I felt a comforting warmth from the fire

“Well, I’m glad that nothing happened” I said letting out a relieved sigh, ignoring the fact that I might have spilled my guts in my drunken stupor

“Yes, and I must also say, thank you” She looked me in the eyes, a profound gratefulness radiating from her “You gave these children something they lacked for so long. Not just a win against the hunters, and not just a party, but something more. I won’t go into detail, but just know that I am thankful”

“Y-Yeah sure…” I said looking away slightly

It was at that moment she narrowed her eyes and looked at me sternly. She stood up and grabbed my chin and made me look at her.

“But you need to ground yourself. Some things I cannot overlook Perseus. It would be wise to follow your own advice, you cannot fight alone” She said firmly

I turned my head away from her, getting an idea of what she meant. I grit my teeth and looked back and gave a wild smirk.

“I’ll be fine” I said confidently to which she crossed her arms “Trust me, I’ve made it this far haven’t I?”

“I do not talk about now, I talk about the future Perseus. Last night you admitted many things, many of them concerning. I will not repeat them for your sake, but you must understand. If this goes on too long, I am afraid that there will be nothing to bring you back” She explained ominously

The silence stretched uncomfortably. I knew what she meant but I shook it off as I saw Zoe shift into an uncomfortable position. I stood up and looked at the girl, whose name finally clicked into place.

“Lady Hestia” I started as I picked Zoe up her hairpin, the sword, falling to the ground

I picked it up with her still in my arms, then turned towards the Artemis Cabin.

“I’m fine, Always have been, Always will be. You do not need to worry about anything” I said before I walked away “Thank you for watching over us last night. Though, I should get her back to her bed before she wakes up and beats my ass” I finished with a smirk to which Hestia gave a wry smile

“Go with Hope Perseus. The night will always give way to Dawn” She said before vanishing

I carried Zoe over to the silver cabin and knocked lightly by kicking the door. In a few moments it opened with Tonia standing there looking sleepy.

“P-Percy? W-Why do you have Zoe in your arms?” She said worriedly as she looked back into the cabin before giving a sigh of relief

“I just came to bring her back. May I come in?” I asked politely to which Tonia nodded hesitantly

“Sure, you gotta leave immediately, I don’t know when anyone else will wake up” She explained as she opened the door further

I quickly and quietly stepped in and made my way to a bed that Tonia indicated as Zoe’s. I set her down and as soon as her head hit the pillow she started whimpering, and turning around. I put the flower pin in her hand, which she quickly grabbed and brought it close to her chest. At that moment, the sounds stopped and I turned and strode out. I said a quick goodbye to Tonia before grabbing my hoodie and walking to my cabin. I changed into a pair of shorts and went to take a shower.

I washed the smell of beer and liquor off of me, Hestia’s words echoing through my head. Once finished I changed into clean clothes, a pair of jeans, with a grey shirt and blue flannel. That’s when I heard a knock at my cabin door.

“Hey Percy, can I talk with you?” I heard the voice of Luke call through the wood

“Sure, just give me a minute” I said as I finished getting dressed

I belatedly noticed that my weapons and kit were put at the side of my door and I figured I’d have to thank Chiron for the act. After sliding my knife into my pocket I opened the door and saw Luke standing there with a case of Bedhead.

“Mornin, you said you wanted to talk?” I asked and he nodded, so I opened my door to let him in but he shook his head

“I have a spot I usually go too, it’s over by the river” He said and I shrugged

“Sure, if it makes you more comfortable” I say as I walk out and follow him into the forest

“So, that was one hell of a party last night man! Glad I stuck around for it” He said with a laugh as we got to a mostly isolated area

“What were you going to just go to bed? You should know I would always throw a victory party, man!” I chuckled as he reached down and pulled out a six pack of coke

“Really? I’ll keep you too that bro” He said as he opened his can and sat down

I mirrored him and did the same. Looking around and enjoying the serene atmosphere.

“So, what did you want to talk about?” I asked as I took a swig of the soda

“Well, I’m going to be leaving camp soon… and I want you to come with me” He admitted, getting right to the point

“Oh? Got one of those quest thingies? Sure, just let me get my gear” I said with easy smile

“No, I mean for good. You see…” He paused, looking for the right words “There are some things here I can’t forgive. Some… ‘People’ I can’t forgive” He continued

“Okay…?” I tilted my head at him “And why do you want me to go with you? I get that I’m handsome and strike a mean figure, but I don’t swing that way dude” I deadpanned at him causing him to crack a smile

“Not like that! Something big is going to happen soon, and I want you to help me. You’re smart and your tactics could change the entire way we go about things. With you, we could get rid of those at the top, pulling the strings” Luke gave me a smile “Truly, you are unstoppable, last night showed that to me clearly”

“Wait, are you trying to talk me into attacking camp?” I asked my eyes narrowing

“Kind of, I want to reshape the world, all we need to do is strike one place in particular. Olympus. You see, I have a backer, and he wants what I do, so we kind of teamed up”

“What’s your backer’s name? Ares?” I asked with a growl but he shook his head with a sneer

“Hells no! That meat head can’t even tell his left from his right! No, it’s someone much more powerful, more powerful than even the gods. But right now he can’t fully manifest. So it falls to me to get good people like you to join us so that we can increase his power” He explained and I felt a cold shudder travel down my spine “Of course you’d be rewarded, generously depending on how much you help, though with your position as my general, you could ask for anything and get it. Be it half the world or that Huntress you like” He said with a smirk his eyes glinting maliciously “Think of it Percy, the gods don’t value us! They use us however they see fit, ordering us around then even after we complete their orders they give us nothing, they ignore us! Your own father didn’t even talk to you when you delivered the master bolt!”

“Wait, how did you know about that?” I asked drinking the rest of the coke in one go and lighting a cigarette

“Like I said, I have a backer. And when I told him about you, he was highly interested. He’ll treat you well, Percy.” Luke said, holding out his hand to me “Join me Percy, and together we can get revenge on the gods that gave birth to us, then treat us as slaves. That treat our mortal parents as trash, casting them aside when they lose interest. We can reshape the world, fix everything in one swift move. With your skills and leadership our position would be secure, we would not answer to anyone but my backer” He continued a crazy look in his eyes “You could even have a goddess, after we take the throne, they would be powerless to deny us!” He continued to say, keeping his hand outstretched.

I closed my eyes and took a deep breath of smoke. What he was suggesting was treason, a direct violation of what I had grown up on. However, the way he spoke showed that he made this offer not solely on the premise of revenge, but he actually needed me. And that was the kicker, he needed me, not because I was his friend, nor was it because he knew about my situation. He wanted my training, my loyalty, and my abilities. After letting out a heavy sigh, I looked him in the eyes and shook my head.

“Luke, what you’re asking of me…” I started, taking the cigarette out of my mouth “To start a war with the gods that I’ve only known existed for a few weeks at most. Do you know how many casualties that would produce? I took an oath to defend the innocents, not to kill them”

“That’s why I need you, Percy. You could make plans that protect them, to keep them out of the fight” He looked like he was about to do something he might regret but didn’t know it “Name something, anything and I’ll see that it is done. Having you on our side would be worth any price!”

“Luke, I can’t. You need to calm down, we can fix everything without war!” I said furrowing my brow “War should not be used unless it is absolutely necessary. It can break people, tear the life out of them. And you suggest that I turn innocent people into my own slaves to sate my own desires? Dude, you need to look at the bigger picture, these things you mentioned can be rectified, you just need to have the patience to see it through!” I argued as a look of pity over took his face

“I see… I didn’t want to do this Percy… you could have saved many people but it seems you would abandon people as quick as the gods do” He said as he lowered his hand

“I am not abandoning anyone Luke! I am trying to keep you from starting something that you will regret! Think about your friends here! They care about you and wouldn't want you to do something like this!” I shot back “Starting a fucking war? Are you insane!? Forget about the gods, live your own life! You’re a grown man aren’t you? Make your own decisions, don’t listen to the delusions of someone who can’t get the job done themselves!”

“Friends? What friends! Those ignorant children who do whatever is told to them by the gods!? They see me as nothing but someone who did a few stupid chores for the gods! They heap on the praise as if doing so will get them my favor! None of them really see me as their friend!” He snapped before he shook his head “Percy, I tried, I really did. I thought things would get better but the wounds only festered. The gods do nothing as we suffer, Kronos will fix everything wrong with the Western world” He said finally as he offered his hand again “So please, join me. Don’t make me regret offering you this chance Percy, your talents can help change the world” He said almost pleadingly

“Luke, I told you no! And Kronos!? Are you fucking mad!?” I said as I shot up and glared at him “You cannot trust a damn thing he says!” However, Luke looked at me sadly

“I’m sorry Percy, if you will not join me, then I have no choice” He said as he motioned to my legs “I didn’t want to do this. But you forced my hand”

I looked down and saw a chrome scorpion on my pant leg. I looked back up to him and he looked away.

“Don’t go for your weapon, these can kill you in sixty seconds. I’ll at least give you some time to make peace with your death. But I cannot have you telling those Olympian bastards about this” Luke said as he turned and walked away

“Luke! You Bastard! Get your ass back here!” I shouted as the insect readied its stinger

I saw Luke look back and shake his head before vanishing from my sight.

“Damn it all!” I said as I tried kicking off the pest.

As my foot connected I felt a sharp sting in my leg. I cursed and drew my knife and threw it at the scorpion, impaling it mid air as it had jumped at me again. Luckily it didn’t make it far before it fell to the ground lifeless.

“Fuck! Alright, Sixty seconds? Gotta make them count!” I spat as I grabbed my knife

As I pulled it free, the stinger shot forward into my hand again causing another sharp sting in my hand. The insect then turned into a gold dust that blew away in the wind.

“FUCK!” I shouted in pain as I turned and started sprinting back to camp

‘If I only have a few more moments left to live, then I’ll at least let everyone know… SHIT They are all unconscious… wait Tonia!’ I said as I felt my legs start going numb

I pushed through the pain in my body. My veins were burning, my vision quickly fading.

‘No! Do not give up! Push through!’ I thought as I stumbled through the woods

Fifteen seconds had passed and I felt as though my head would explode from pain. Gritting my teeth and letting out an angry breath I drove forward, one foot in front of the other. Eventually I lost track of the time, as the pain occupied most of my mind.

I collapsed onto a tree, and my breathing grew ragged. I didn’t have much longer… I wouldn’t make it…

“NO! I FUCKING REFUSE!!” I Rasped out in anger, I forced myself to my feet and continued to push forward, a small surge of energy pulsing through me. “LEFT! RIGHT! LEFT! RIGHT!” I said to myself as I continued to put one step in front of the other

My vision blacked out, but I felt a tug towards a place. Knowing it was my battle instincts I followed them, determined to see this through. Eventually, collapsed onto a set of stairs. I climbed them and stood up, slamming my fist against a door.

“TONIA!!! OPEN UP!” I shouted despite not being able to hear myself

After three hard knocks, I fell and hit the ground hard, but that was nothing compared to the absolute magma traveling through my veins.

“Tonia…! Luke… Betrayed… Camp” I pushed out the words, unknowing who was in front of me “Kronos…” Feeling my body rack with pain I felt my stomach clench painfully “War… Prepare…” I said with the last of my breath before everything faded away

Zoe’s POV:

I woke up to a heavy knocking. My head was pounding slightly but whoever was at the door needed to be told off for waking us up so unceremoniously. As I got up I saw Tonia open the door to the cabin and scream.

“Luke… Betray… Cemp” I saw Percy, a sickly pale, his skin glistening with pain and effort “War… Prep” He got out before he collapsed

I acted instantly. I rushed over to him and picked him up, slinging one of his arms over my shoulders.

“Phoebe, Atalanta help me! We need to get him to Chiron and Lord Dionysus” I ordered but the two girls hesitated

“Zoe… he's just a male, why should we help?” Phoebe asked frowning

“Yeah, he's only disrespected us since we've met him. Did you forget what happened when he walked up to us that day?” She asked crossing her arms

I looked down. I could never forget that day. Perseus had infuriated me, and his actions that day still angered me. I looked at my sisters, and saw that they were doubting me. But I couldn't let this boy die… not after he saved me from dishonor, and potentially death.

“After we see him to the Big House, we will leave immediately, and I'll forget all about him” I said to which they looked at each other and gave a hesitant nod

“Fine, but if we hear one word about this boy, you'll be the one doing laundry for fifteen years” Phoebe said as she walked over and grabbed Percy's other arm

It was at that moment that Atalanta Gasped.

“Is… is that from a Pit Scorpion!? What the Hades happened?!” Atalanta said as she opened the door for us

“Tonia, grab mine hairpin. We need to get him to Chiron” I ordered and Phoebe nodded

Together we carried the unconscious male. Atalanta running ahead of us to make sure the old centaur was awake.

“Zoe… he may already be dead…” Phoebe said but I shook my head

“No, we can't just leave him…” I said worriedly “He knows something important” Eventually the Big House came into view

“Chiron! Lord Dionysus!” I shouted as the old Centaur galloped over

“Di Immortals! Quickly bring him into the medical wing, Atalanta, wake up Will. He should be in the Apollo cabin!” Chiron said as he inspected the wound and his face paled even more

“We don't have much time” He said gravely “When was he stung?” He led us into the room and to the same bed where Lady Artemis and I talked to him several nights ago

“We do not know. He collapsed at our cabin two minutes ago. He couldn't even hear Tonia scream…” I explained as we set his body down and the camper Will sprinted in still wearing his pajamas

The first thing he did was hook up a blood bag and stick him with a needle. He continued to work by putting a large needle into his left arm and started draining his blood.

“Come on Perce… show me a sign you're still fighting…” Will pleaded

It was at that moment Phoebe tapped My shoulder. I turned and looked at her confused.

“Your promise?” She said and I nodded feeling guilt in my chest

“Right… Chiron, we have to leave” I said which shocked the old man “We got orders to hunt a monster” I finished as I turned and walked out

I let out a quiet breath as I grabbed my hairpin and quickly grabbed our things. We left camp soon after. No one knowing if Percy was alive… or dead.

Percy's POV:

The ringing in my ears echoed loudly. Each breath was painful, as if I was inhaling pure CS gas from the gas chamber. My entire body hurt, but I just let out a pained chuckle.

‘Pain means I'm alive. Suck it Luke!’ I thought through the painful headache.

I felt my lips be opened and something put in. It tasted slightly of the Blue Brownies that Sally made me when I returned to camp. I forced my jaw to move as I ate and swallowed the food.

My body burned but the pain was nowhere near the pain that I had experienced when I was stung so I just bore with it.

“...rcy” I heard a faint voice and I gave what I assumed was a thumbs up

I stayed like this for what felt like ages. Fading in and out of consciousness, unable to see and barely feel my body. Eventually, I opened my eyes and saw that I was hooked up to some tubes. My vision was blurry but I could definitely see the red of blood above me.

As my vision cleared I also saw that I was in a tub of water, a mask over my mouth and nose pushing air into my lungs.

Groaning, I sat up and removed the mask. I looked around and took stock of where I was.

‘The big house…? Again?’ I thought tiredly before I saw Will with bags under his eyes, passed out in a chair nearly falling out

With him were several other Apollo kids looking just as exhausted as him. The many eyed man was standing guard at the door, the eyes on his back staring wide eyed at me.

“Sup” I rasped, my voice hoarse from what felt like either yelling too much or not talking for too long. “Got any not bath water? I feel like I just ran twenty miles without the stuff”

The man quickly left then returned with a glass of water that he helped me drink. It helped ease the pain in my throat, and it was at that moment Chiron walked in with Mr. D.

“Mornin” I greeted exhausted

“Percy, you're alive… what happened?” He asked “Why were you stung, twice, by a pit scorpion?” At this I shook my head

“Not important… Luke betrayed the camp and the gods. He's preparing for a war against the council and is working with Kronos” I said and Mr. D's eyes went wide

“Perseus, tell me everything you know” the god ordered and without making any unnecessary comments I gave my report

I made it quick yet it had everything I knew. How Luke wasn't satisfied with the state of things, how he wanted to recruit me for the war against Olympus, how I denied him, and who he was working with. When I finished Mr. D vanished in a purple haze.

Chiron looked at me concerned.

“Are you sure about this?” Chiron asked and I gave him a look that said ‘what you think I like getting stabbed by super venomous bugs?’ 

“Yes, otherwise I wouldn't have been stabbed” I voiced my thoughts as I leaned back in the tub “Speaking of, how long was I out?”

“Ten days. The Apollo cabin worked around the clock to keep you stable. At one point we thought we actually lost you, until you flipped Will off” Chiron said with a grim smile

“I think it was supposed to be a thumbs up, but whatever works I guess” I joked “Though I'm surprised that Tonia didn't tell you before…” I groaned as I shifted around slightly

Chiron shook his head, his lips pursed.

“The hunters left immediately after they dropped you off” he said and I scoffed

“Of course they did. Whatever, fuck em” I spat as I attempted to get out only to have my body protest violently and I collapsed back into the tub

This action startled Will awake as he stumbled over to me and checked me over, his brain half on and his eyes half open.

“He's doing fine… still alive… come on Percy don't fucking die on me…” he mumbled and I looked at him, slightly touched

“Aww Will, if I was gay, I'd immediately fall for you. But I don't swing that way. No offense if you do though” I commented causing him to look at me and his eyes shot open

“Percy!” He shouted as he collapsed to the floor

“Easy there doc, only need one patient right now eh?” I said coughing “but seriously don't kill yourself over me dude”

I relaxed back into the tub and fell back to sleep, letting the medics take care of me. My body was fatigued from fighting the venom and my mind was exhausted from trying to focus through the pain. 

I spent three more days like that, the medics taking shifts to watch me so I don't try to get up without their permission. It seems Will warned them about me doing stupid shit.

Finally, I was able to get out of the tub. I still felt energized because of the water, but the whole experience left a bad taste in my mouth. I didn't want to rely on these powers unless I could save someone else.

“Alright” I cracked my neck “I want to see the head counselors of each cabin” I said firmly causing Chiron to look at me confused

“Why? We can spread the word of your recovery for you or you can go out and walk around” He explained but I shook my head

“No, we need to get our counterintelligence up. Who knows how many spies Luke has in this camp. Actually not every counselor, I want to see Connor and Travis, Beckendorf, and Clarisee, Doc you stay here” I said as I started doing some stretches

Chiron frowned before he left. As he was gone, I got dressed with a set of clothes that was prepared for me. Though I did refuse to put on the bright orange shirt, and decided I'd use the Grey shirt I had on the day I was attacked as it had been cleaned.

When Chiron returned with the aforementioned people I gave each of them a hard look.

“Percy! You're alive!” Conner yelled but my sharp stare silenced him

“Quiet. Right now you all will listen to what I'm about to say” I said pacing, pulling out my can of dip and putting a decent amount in

I saw each of them stiffen up at my tone. I then looked at Chiron with a question in my head.

“Chiron, is there a way to make an unbreakable oath?” I ask and his eyes widened slightly

“There is, but why would you need that?” He asked

“Because what I'm about to say must not leave this room” I explain and he nods hesitantly

“You must swear on the river Styx” He said cautiously

“Right, first, all of us must swear on the River Styx that we will not Betray each other for Kronos” I say looking at them and they look at each other hesitantly “If it makes you more at ease then I'll start. I swear on the River Styx that I will not Betray anyone in this room for Kronos” I say causing thunder to boom overhead

With that, Clarisee nodded and repeated the oath. And soon everyone else followed, a chorus of thunder echoing around.

“Now, Luke has betrayed camp. He sold us all out to Kronos and plans to start a war with Olympus” I started as I grabbed a water bottle and spit into it, the brown liquid congealing at the bottom “He tried to recruit me, but when I refused he sent a Scorpion after me that put me into ‘that’ condition. I don't know how far his plans have gone, or how many are sympathetic to his cause” I continued as I sat down in a chair “What we need to do, at this moment, is to find out who is and who is not loyal. So I want everyone here to watch the campers, if ANYTHING seems out of sorts, you bring that person to me immediately. Do not trust anyone except those in this room, I do not care if they are your significant other, or if they are your brothers or sisters” I said sternly to which everyone nodded “I won't do anything rash, but if someone is found to be a spy, I will request that they be detained or killed based on why they chose that path”

At this everyone went still. Talking about killing fellow campers was shocking and it didn't quite register to them. Except for Clarisse, she looked at me and nodded.

“Right, I'll follow you Percy” she said calmly to which I inclined my head gratefully

“Can't we just ask them?” Conner asked but I shook my head

“No, if they have already sworn themselves then they will lie to keep their place close to us. And some might even try to get closer. But right now it's just surveillance, if someone acts anxious or suspicious, note it down and we will reconvene, suspect everyone at this point in time. But do not treat anyone any different.” I sighed as the group nodded “we will reconvene in two weeks, until then…” I turned to Will and gave a wicked smile “Percy Jackson, is dead”

At this the group's mouths dropped open in shock.

“If there are spies, that will be the first thing they report. They know that Will was working around the clock to try to save me. But no one knows the outcome. Let's make it seem like the enemy has the upper hand” I look at Chiron “Chiron, I am requesting permission to leave camp for the duration of those two weeks. In the meantime can you help pass off this ruse?” I ask and he nods

“I'll get it done, and yes, you have my permission. Though, where are you going to go?” He asked confused

I shrugged, spitting more saliva into the bottle. “Wherever the yellow brick road takes me. But rest assured I'll be back in two weeks if a day or so more” I said confidently before looking at Clarisse and the others “I'm putting this task in your hands, the future of Camp and the world as we know it, may very well rest on what we find out.” I say looking at each and every one of them “Now that that's over, yes I am indeed alive Conner, though apparently it was touch and go”

“Yeah, stung twice by a Pit Scorpion, and had the venom going through your heart for fourteen minutes! It's a bloody miracle that you're alive!” Will laughed crazily

“Wait, Prissy was stung by a Pit Scorpion?! Doesn't it only take a minute to kill you once stung?” Clarisse commented mouth agape

“Yeah, and this dude lived for fourteen minutes with two stings!” Will replied

I let out a small smile at the interaction. I spent the next few hours explaining the plan and how I was going to overhaul camp to prepare them for the upcoming war.

On Olympus:

The council was stuck in a heated debate. Dionysus had flashed in and called a meeting three days prior. And in that time Zeus has exploded at Hermes approximately seventeen times. Each time he was accusing Hermes of working with his son, but the god had repeatedly sworn on the River Styx that he was not.

“Dionysus, if I may ask, how did you come up with this information?” Artemis asked, leaning forward in her throne

“It was Perseus’ dying breath” He said having listened into Percy's conversation back at the big house

While he wasn't there, the leopard he had reanimated constantly informed him of what was going on. And he had to admit, Perseus’ plan was decent.

Many of the gods gasped. Artemis being one as she covered her mouth in shock.

“P-Perseus was killed? By who!” She asked her anger visible

“It was Luke Castellan, he brought the pit scorpion which stabbed Percy. The boy then spent fourteen agonizing minutes making it back to camp to tell us of the impending war” He continued causing one person to scoff

“Serves the brat right! He got too big for his britches!” Ares scoffed only to have a trident, an arrow, and a spear pointed at his neck

Athena, who had spent most of her time reading, felt outrage that the son of one of her children was being laughed at by this pathetic God.

“Athena… Why do you defend Percy?” Poseidon asked confused at why his long time rival would aid him

“One of my children raised him, kept me updated on his progress in his studies. He's like a grandson to me” she said as she glared at Ares “And if you ever talk about my grandson like that again, I will rip you apart… again”

“N-Noted” Ares said

Poseidon sat on his throne looking down. The old god looked even more depressed than he did when Percy left without saying anything. Now he believed that his son was truly dead, and he would never be able to make amends.

The gods were looking down, until Zeus looked up.

“How old was Perseus?” He asked but Athena shook her head

“He was only just turning fifteen… he did not meet the requirements for the prophecy” She said which made Apollo narrow his eyes slightly at Dionysus

“From what we know, no other child of our unfaithful husband's exist” Hera said, a slightly smug look in her eyes

“What about Hades, did he not have children with mortals?” Zeus said but Demeter glared at him

“Hades has already sworn, several times that he does not cheat on my daughter, do not besmirch his only good quality” Demeter spat

“What we should do is not argue amongst ourselves but take a heroes dying words and put them to use, we need to find out who amongst the gods are… unsatisfied with the current state of things, we need to find any leaks in our security” Dionysus said to which Athena nodded

“A smart path, and do you know where we should start?” She said looking at Dionysus with an impressed look

“Let us start with the minor gods, then move up” he explained and Athena nodded

“That makes sense, check for the ones who are treated less than proper…” Athena stated before looking thoughtful “I will begin my inspection, Father, I shall inform you if I find anything”

“Thank you Athena” Zeus said as he stroked his beard “Let us not let this loyal Demigods’ words be in vain” He finished as he summoned his master bolt and held it aloft

Dionysus smiled slightly but quickly hid it. Percy’s plan seemed to be working by bringing everyone together, and with the martyr himself leading the cause, then everything might work out!

Eventually the other gods flashed out. Leaving only Dionysus, Artemis, Apollo, Poseidon and Hestia in the room. Artemis walked up to Dionysus with a look of regret in her eyes.

“Dionysus, I am sorry to hear that Percy was killed in such a manner. I know he was someone you, in particular, were partial too. If the way you spoke of him is of any indication” She said and Dionysus sighed

“Heroes live and die, it was his time, what can we do to defy the fates? Though, I do have to give credit to your hunters, for they brought him to us to hear his words.” He said solemnly to which Artemis nodded before flashing away

Poseidon simply looked at Dionysus with a broken look.

“Did he… at least enjoy himself at the camp?” He asked in a quiet voice

“Yes, he led the campers to a victory against the Hunters. And his final night not in the infirmary bed was filled with joy and revelry” Dionysus explained to which Poseidon nodded and vanished from his throne

Hesita, for her part, was sitting at the hearth with a depressed look in her eyes. Dionysus walked over and sat down.

“I saw him off that morning… I told him to take care of himself for the future…” She said glumly

“And yet” he started glancing at Apollo who was watching his every move “The hearth burns bright. Even though the campers have heard of his passing, its light and warmth have not diminished. His image and his deeds thus far will be with us, and he will inspire the campers to push forwards towards the future” He said pointedly causing Hestia to smile warmly as she nodded and Apollo to narrow his eyes

“Brother, may I speak with you for a moment?” Apollo asked as he stood up and walked over

“Sure, It’s not like I have a war to prepare for” He said as he turned to Apollo and walked off to the side with the sun god

Once they were alone Apollo turned on Dionysus and gave a level look.

“Brother, why did you lie to the council?” He said, getting straight to the point

“It was his idea. To find out who is a traitor amongst our forces. I do not believe that those who are working for the enemy would be sad at his… death” Dionysus explained “Do keep this to yourself Apollo, we need his insight and his planning. He is unlike any demigod I have met, surviving fourteen minutes of poison without medical assistance and then pulling through with your children’s help.” Dionysus stated to which Apollo gained a look of pride

“Alright, But keep me updated on his situation. I’ll aid him where I can” Apollo said and Dionysus nodded

“From what I know, he’s disappearing for two weeks. So not even I will know what he is doing” Dionysus admitted causing Apollo to smirk

“He does seem like that kind of person” He commented

Dionysus sighed.

“Yes, and it gives me a headache every time…”

Artemis’ POV:

After I left Olympus, I returned to the hunters camp. My chest, tight in pain. I did not know how to explain to Tonia, who Percy saved only a few days earlier, that her ‘Angel’ was dead…

Even Zoe seemed on edge about the situation,and if I remember right she and Phoebe carried the boy from the hunters cabin to the Big House. This would affect her at least in some way. Seeing how my lieutenant had begun to trust him, if only slightly.

“Maybe… is this for the best?” I asked myself as I sat in my tent rubbing my temples “Whether he meant to or not he was getting too close to my hunters. Although losing him is a huge blow to our fighting force.” I muttered when I heard shuffling outside

“Lady Artemis, may I come in?” The voice of my Lieutenant sounded from outside and I bit my lip

“You may” I responded and in the next instant Zoe was standing in front of me

“Lady Artemis, we have found faint traces of a manticore, it might be some time before we find it properly” she reported and I gave a short nod as I stood up and closed my tent “Lady Artemis?”

“Zoe, I just came from a meeting on Olympus as you well know, and we have gotten a report of Kronos’ revival and Luke Castellan's betrayal. I will be making this announcement at dinner, so I want you to be ready to deal with the new ones doubts and prepare for extra training” I said to which Zoe nodded slightly, a conflicted look in her eyes “Is something the matter?” I asked curious about what was on her mind

“No, milady, I will do as you ask” she said with a bow before leaving

I spent the next hour or so thinking over how I'd break the news to the two girls. I know Tonia was going to cry the most. Seeing as how she thought of Percy as a dependable older brother.

Eventually, dinner time came around and I walked out, moving over to the tables that were set out. I looked over the girls and saw them laughing and joking. Some even talking about the capture the flag game and how they'd beat Percy. Zoe was sitting with Phoebe and Atalanta eating calmly when I cleared my throat.

Standing at the front of the table, I watched all thirty girls turn their attention to me.

“Girls, the council has determined that a threat has reared its ugly head to attack Olympus. Due to Luke Castellan's betrayal, the threat has been identified as the Crooked One, the Titan Kronos. As a result, we will be focusing on hunting down more powerful monsters so that we may dwindle the enemies forces to give our armies the best possible chance to defeat the enemy” I said succinctly

Murmurs broke out along the table. My eyes searched everyone's faces when I caught sight of Tonia wide eyed as if she just remembered something.

“Any questions?” I asked looking at the young girl

“U-Um… Lady Artemis… What happened to Percy?” She asked worriedly and I nodded

“He was killed by Luke. He was stung by a Pit scorpion and spent his final fourteen minutes getting the council this information” I said and I immediately saw the tears start forming in her eyes

I looked over everyone else and saw Zoe who looked sick to her stomach and her face pale.

“Wait, milady this doesn't make any sense. That was over thirteen days ago! Why was that information just now reaching us?” Phoebe asked but I shook my head

“From what I was told, Dionysus was possibly keeping us from learning about his death until He and Chiron discussed how it should be broken to the camp.” I assumed when Tonia let out a broken sob

“H-He told us! Phoebe, he t-told us when he appeared at our door!” Tonia shouted “You were just going to let him die!! Y-You made Zoe and Me never bring him up, we… We didn't even tell Chiron or Lady Artemis about his words!!” She screamed “E-Even after he gave his life for those few words!!”

“So? He was still able to tell Chiron and Lord Dionysus about it all. So why does it matter if he told us?” Phoebe spat back

“It matters because we failed him. He put his trust in us, Phoebe, to convey those words to the gods.” Zoe shot a glare at Phoebe

“Well obviously he didn't if he repeated them before he actually died! Any male that doesn't trust us is a fool and an idiot” the girl said crossing her arms

“I'm glad he didn't trust us! Otherwise we would have forgotten! Or be forced into silence! Since we clearly did not tell anyone!” Zoe accused a look of pain in her eyes

My lieutenant stood up and quickly grabbed Tonia and walked her off to a tent. I felt my anger bristle slightly as I turned my gaze to Phoebe who scoffed in their direction.

“Phoebe, did Percy actually tell you this information?” I asked controlling my anger

Phoebe looked at me in surprise.

“I-It might have been mentioned milady” she said sheepishly, her eyes avoiding mind

“And you did not think it important that this information be conveyed in a timely manner? We could have been caught severely off guard if Perseus did not use his final breath to tell Dionysus. And what is this about forcing your sisters to not speak of him?” I accused crossing my arms at the girl

“They were too close to that vile male! Zoe let him put his filthy hands on her! And Tonia would not stop talking about him!! I was protecting them!!” Phoebe defended herself

“Phoebe, the oath specifically says that you turn your back on the company of men. That does not mean they cannot make friends with them. Zoe has not broken her oath by befriending Percy. And Tonia was saved from a horrible place because of him. When you girls were intoxicated Percy himself asked MY permission to get you back into the cabin! Despite having ample opportunity to take advantage of the situation, he was respectful of you all” I snapped my eyes narrowing at the girl “Even I trusted him enough to watch over Zoe when I left that night! And he still did nothing! Get that through your head Phoebe, he is not like most others. Yes he was impulsive, and used crude language, but he was a man of honor.” I ranted

Phoebe looked down, her hands clenched. I let out a sigh as I walked over and put a hand on her shoulder.

“I am not saying you have to be friends with males. Just that it is not prohibited. I may hate my brother, but that is because he knowingly hits on you girls for the sole reason of either ticking me off, or sleeping with one of you. I still love him as my brother and try not to injure him… too much.” I admitted to which Phoebe looked up at me

“B-But why? Men have always lasted after us, why is he the exception? Why could he be trusted so much? We hardly knew him…” She asked confused

“Maybe because we never found a good man before. We were focused on saving girls from terrible ones, and we ignored the ones that could have changed our views. Perseus was one of those good men that you couldn't ignore, he marched to the beat of his own drum and made himself known” I guessed “But now we have a duty to do. And if Perseus were here, he would have done it, kicking and screaming perhaps, but it would be done” I said to which she nodded

“Why did he help us? Surely you didn't agree to something ridiculous?” She asked and I gave a grim smile

“No, I kicked his balls for even suggesting a date with Zoe” I commented “But he agreed right away when I told him the circumstances. Apparently, when he was in Afghanistan he saw things that made him think much like we do” I explained and her eyes went wide

“Afghanistan? Wait… he really was a soldier?” She asked and I nodded

“Yes, and an accomplished one at that apparently” I said to which just made Phoebe look more depressed “But he is gone now. All we can do is take his final words and make the most of what he gave. And to start you have laundry duty for the next month”

Phoebe only nodded as I walked off, leaving the girl to her own thoughts. There were two more hunters that needed talking too.