Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Look. Being a halfblood is a painful life. But being a werewolf? That makes it more bearable. But to see how Perseus came to be who he is now we must look through his story.

Sally was not having a good month. Poseidon had finally bailed having risked too much time with her and she was desperately looking for someone who could hide her child's demigodly scent. Add in the fact that she was a single mother, pregnant and alone in New York, she was in a very difficult place. The exhaust fumes and rude people really made it worse. Having ran out of energy as she walked through Central park, Sally took a seat on a park bench. After about 15 minutes she was joined by a well dressed handsome man who clearly worked out but didn’t flaunt it.

“Are you alright, miss?” asked the stranger, a nice change of pace from the general rudeness.

“Yeah, just pregnant and alone. The father is lost at sea. And it's so hard to keep everything running in this city,” replied Sally honestly.

“Sounds rough, I did not catch your name miss?” was the stranger’s sincere response.

“I’m Sally, Sally Jackson, and you sir?”

“I am Lycaon, I know it is a very outdated name but I,” he said, motioning to his immaculate black suit, gold watch and polished black shoes, “am an outdated fellow.”

“Named after the first werewolf? Interesting. I like the old names as well, I’m thinking of naming my son Perseus. He can shorten it to Percy to fit in but I want him to have a happy life and Perseus was the only ancient Greek demi- character I think who got one.”

“You are very well informed about your mythology, did you know who the father was before he was lost?”

“What do you mean?” Sally questioned suspiciously.

Lycaon sat next to Sally and leaned in, holding his hand up to cover his mouth. “I don’t know how to really explain without sounding crazy. You know the myths? Well the gods still exist,” Lycaon whispered carefully
and sounding completely serious.

“So you are a demigod then? Or are you really the first werewolf? Because I thought Lycaon the werewolf was a monster in the mythology and you are being very kind to me right now despite me carrying a demigod.”

“Those myths are not of me. My brother took my name to sully it after the incident on mount Lycan. I promise you no harm will come to you from me. But, I can sense other monsters nearby.”

“Olympus damn it! I was too slow finding someone to protect us. Now what?!”

“Who is the father? For them to sense him before he is even born, he must be powerful. I mean I can smell him now and I am here I can tell it was both aspects of whichever god sired him.”

“The lord of the seas. I know names have power. I won’t invoke him when he’s being watched so closely,” Sally stated as Lycaon sucked in a sharp breath.

“Both Lord P and Lord N? Even with the oath on the Styx? A Big 3 God? Oh by Olympus!”

“What oath Lycaon?”

“I guess he would not have led with that, no. After World War 2 the big 3 gods, Z, H and P, all swore an oath not to have more Children as the great prophecy states a halfblood of the eldest god will reach 16 against all odds, and see the world in endless sleep, a hero’s soul cursed blade shall reap, a single choice shall end his days, olympus to preserve or raze, as in r-a-z-e”

“Well that’s a great pile of shit my son’s been given. Was his father the first?”

“No. Lord Z broke the oath first, but she is still young, and we are yet to see how the immortal world will react to her”

“Then how am I supposed to protect my son?”

“I can protect you if you would like, you would have to move to Las Vegas but I have a hotel there that is shielded from monster attacks. There you would be protected from deity’s and monsters alike.”

“I’m guessing no human would hide his scent.”

“Indeed, I am sorry but finding a powerful but friendly mythological creature is your best hope”

“How would I move? I want to accept your offer but how would I get there?”

Standing up, he held out his hand for Sally to take, “I have people. I am thousands of years old after all . A very successful hotel/casino in Vegas helps too.”

“Thank you Lycaon”

—-------------------------------------

Within a week Sally had moved into the Lupercal hotel and was much more relaxed and comfortable. The pack were nice and welcoming and understood how she was scared of the Olympian’s retribution. Soon enough she was ready to give birth. With her young son now born things did get easier. Over time Sally grew to truly love the hotel.

Sally walked into Lycaon’s office, a determined look on her face, “I’ve made my choice Lycaon. I wish to become a werewolf and a full time worker here, and if possible to have Percy be a werewolf as well?”

His face turned from that of a kind and patient uncle to that of the serious pack leader he was, “That is a big decision Sally, are you certain?”

“Absolutely,” she said, a determined expression on her face. “It would save so much pain. And this place helped me out a lot with all of this mythological bullshit.”

“I will change you and you can change Percy then. If you are so certain this is your path forwards.”

Having heard this from other people joining the pack, Sally’s voice didn’t falter, “I swear my loyalty to you as my alpha, Lycaon. I will protect my pack and my home.”

“Then let it be done!” he exclaimed, the smile returning to his face as he moved towards Sally and leaned in.

And with a bite, Lycaon completed the transformation for Sally, which she used to give the curse of the Lycan to Percy. With them joining the pack everything felt safer. Sally became a deep brown furred wolf with eyes that would change colour as they neared the sea.

Chapter Text

A few years had passed and Sally had quickly become an integral part of the pack, acting as the pack’s second in command without even realising it. Lycaon appreciated it too and although it wasn’t official they worked together as if it had been millenia. Percy had quickly grown into a cute puppy, pitch black with sea green eyes and a very protective attitude.

“He is such a little spitfire your pup,” Lupa laughed as Sally watched Percy playing in the pup play area.

“The lord of the seas warned me fate needed him. He may be a werewolf, but I fear fate still wants him as their demigod hero,” Sally explained.

“Yes but he has the pack. I am aware of the prophecy and I know your son will be involved now due to the warning Poseidon gave you, but that doesn’t stop us from helping him. He is one of our own and that gives him help that many demigods are missing,” replied Lupa.

“How's Percy?” asked Lycaon as he entered. He’d been looking for his second and third as they had an issue.

“He's good, enjoying himself with the other pups. What's wrong, Lycaon?” Sally responded.

“Lord Poseidon is here, he is wondering what happened to his son as he lost track of him. Last he heard from a cyclops, his son smelled of werewolf,” Lycaon answered.

“I will meet him alone. I know you want to protect me but this will be the safer option. Which room is he in?” Sally stated, with the authority of her rank as pack second.

“My office. It is the only fitting meeting place for a god,” Lycaon acquiesced, as Sally shifted and bounded up the stairs to keep Poseidon waiting as little as possible.

—--------------

“Hello again, lord Poseidon,” Sally greeted him as she entered the room, back in human form.

“Sally? Oh thank Olympus you are ok,” he said, trying and failing to disguise his relief. “One of my cyclopes said our son smelled of werewolf and I was worried,” Poseidon said, his tone was worried and badly hidden.

“It's fine. Percy is fine. Yes we smell of werewolf. How else would we cover the scent of one of the big three? Especially with the oath you broke,” Sally accused lightly.

“So you found out why his fate required him to be of both my forms?”

Sally’s eyes widened, “And what convinced you to make him that powerful?!”

Posidon’s mouth dropped open before smacking his forehead, “αφόδευμα! I should not have said that! I should not have said that!” With his head still in his hands he disappears with a waft of seaspray.

“For styx’s sake.”

—-----------------------

About 2 months after Percy's 7th birthday Sally was out shopping nearby when she saw a group of 3 kids, the youngest about Percy’s age. In the shop they were trying to figure out what they could get with the handful of change they had between them.

“You ok? You look lost,” Sally asked gently.

“We’re fine,” the only boy in the group stated, trying to get away from the conversation.

“Luke. we can't afford enough, especially not to wander through the desert. Think of Annabeth.” the older girl retorted trying to get help.

“Fine. Thalia you’re right. After that hellhound attack we need supplies,” Luke grumbled. “We aren’t lost Miss, just alone and short on money.”

“I can pay for some supplies for you. And did I hear you say hellhounds? ,” Sally asked, concerned.

“Yeah you did. You don't seem confused or surprised enough to have just learned about them,” Thalia said warily.

“My dear, I can see through the mist and my son is a demigod. I promise I genuinely want to help you,” Sally whispered calmingly.

“She seems nice Thalia and I’m hungry,” the youngest spoke up.

“Ok Annabeth, miss can you help us? We have no destination and no money,” Thalia asked, her confidence building with Annabeth’s support.

“Of course,” Sally said, smiling. “I'll buy you enough food for two weeks. If you’re looking for somewhere safe, head to New york. On Long island there’s a camp for the children of Olympus.”

“Thank you miss!” Annabeth said happily as Sally brought them supplies before heading back to the Lupercal.

As soon as the kids were out of hearing Sally pulled her phone out.

“Hello, is this camp half blood I’m speaking to?” Sally asked.

“It is, how did you get this number? And how do you know who you are talking to?” said a voice that, though it didn’t sound old, had the confidence of a man who had lived for a very long time and had seen a lot in that time.

“My son’s father told me, as did my son's stepfather. But this is more important than who’s who,” Sally responded calmly but quickly.

“Ok, I am Chiron. What is the issue?”

“Im in las vegas, I just had to help three homeless half bloods get supplies and send them to your camp in New York. The oldest was about 15, another was a bit younger and the youngest looked to be 7,” Sally stated urgently.

“I understand, we will send searchers to find and protect them. Are you and your son safe?” Chiron replied.

“Me and my son are safe. We have a home and we’re protected.”

“I understand. I hope to meet your son one day,” Chiron stated as Sally returned home and ended the call.

—--------

Once the shopping was put away, Sally went looking for Lycaon.

“Afternoon Lycaon.”

“Hello Sally, how has your day been so far?”

“Interesting. I think I met the daughter of Zeus you told me about in our first meeting.”

“I wonder why she isn’t at camp yet? Surely she is irresistible to the monsters around her?”

“I don’t think she knew about camp, I told her and the two other demigods she was with about it earlier.”

“I'll send Remus to watch them and help without being noticed. If they make it then Percy will have more help in the future from experienced demigods.”

“You needed me sir? I heard my name as I walked past,” Remus asked respectfully.

Lycaon looked towards Sally as she commanded, “We need you to keep an eye on three demigods, one of which is a daughter of the lord of the skies. They are headed to New York, but we believe they will be monster magnets and we want to help them so that Percy has as many allies as possible for the fate Poseidon warned us of.”

“I understand, I'll head out now,” Remus bowed before shifting and bounding out of the room in search of the three danger magnets.

—---------------------

It had been another couple of months with Remus reporting in weekly. They were nearing the camp.

During his last Iris message, “Alpha I have an issue.”

“What's wrong Remus, you are nearly done aren’t you?”

“The lord of the dead has found out about the lord of the skies breaking his oath. I can't protect them. Not against all three furies, an army of hellhounds and more.”

“Keep an eye on it but don’t risk yourself. We should have expected this, especially with the prophecy.”

“Understood alpha, they are at the hill now but I don't think the daughter of Zeus will make it,” Remus apologised as screams from the hill were heard and a large bolt of lightning struck half way up the hill and some of the screeching stopped. And then the remaining monsters howled in frustration.

“I think it is over Remus, report what just happened then make your way back. You did well and I have a new job for you when you return.”

“Understood alpha. It looks like a god turned Thalia into a pine tree. I'd say her father due to the lightning. And there is a barrier around camp now. I think you might need to talk to Persy’s father about allowing him through the barrier,” Remus reported before closing the message.

“Was that Remus?” Sally asked as she entered the room.

“Yes. Thalia didn’t make it and was turned into a pine tree by, we assume, her father, but the others made it.”

“I don’t think it was lord Zeus. Why do you assume it was?” Sally questioned.

“Lightning struck as it happened and her father is the god of lightning?”

“But pines are the sacred tree of Poseidon and he is known as the stormbringer. Just food for thought,” Sally replied.

“Indeed. As usual, you fill the role as beta perfectly. I always appreciate your input,” he said as he pulled Sally into a kiss/hug. He pulled away slightly to talk more, “On another note, I plan on getting Percy trained by Remus.” Lycaon announced.

—-------------

Remus returned a few days later and started training Percy in swordfighting as well as wolf fighting. Lycaon and Sally’s relationship grew, and Percy was happy with his new stepdad.

Percy had enrolled in the local school for children with learning difficulties which was surprisingly ok with his list of school expulsions. The cannonball he’d shot into a bus and at the aquarium where a shark had told him to drop the catwalk, being just two examples. The dip with the shark had prompted Sally and Lycaon to tell him his heritage.

“Hey grover. Sorry Nancy is such a bully, if it wasn’t for the fact I don't want to be expelled this early in the year I’d deck her for you” Percy apologised after another day of Nancy’s bullying. Grover was a satyr keeper who had been sent by Chiron to keep an eye on Vegas after the call from Sally about Thalia.

“It's ok, she's just a kid with a troubled home life. I'm more worried about you in maths,” Grover mediated as he tried to figure out how to contact Chiron for help without Percy realising.

Chapter Text

Chiron had been very quick in arriving in Las Vegas once Grover had managed to contact him. He too was concerned by how tightly the scent of werewolf hung on Percy as well as the mysterious maths teacher Mrs Dodds. It had taken a bit of mist manipulation, but Chiron had managed to get the job of Latin teacher under the name Mr Brunner. A few hours after the winter solstice the weather had seemed to fight the seas. About April Chiron and Mrs Dodds were leading a museum field trip to the virginia history museum to look at ancient Greek and roman artefacts

Since he knew that these stories pertained to him Percy had been trying to listen but Nancy had been talking constantly.

“Would you just shut up!” Percy Growled at Nancy.

“Did you have a comment Mr Jackson?” Chiron asked.

“No sir, just trying to listen.” he replied as he turned his head slightly and glared at Nancy. Chiron followed his gaze and sighed.

“Perhaps you could tell us what the carving on this stele is?”

“Yes sir, that is Kronos eating his children.” most of the chatter near the front died. Some of them snickered while a girl further back shouted about how disgusting that was. Yet more just stared at Mr Brunner, seeming to be asking him to deny what Percy had just said.

“And he did that because?” Some of the children’s mouths dropped open. It was true?

“He had been given a prophecy that his children would otherthrown him. He was the king titan, so that was a threat to his power, so he ate his children the gods. However, his wife hid his youngest child, Zeus…” Percy startled a bit as Lightning struck at the mention of Zeus’ name. “And replaced him with a rock. Eventually he was tricked by his son into throwing up the other gods. They fought a long battle in which the gods eventually won.”

“Indeed Percy, well done on your recall,” Chiron praised. “Remember everyone, fill out your worksheets.”

“Like we will need this in real life.” Nancy grumbled.

“To paraphrase Mrs. Bobofits question, does anyone know why this is important?” Chiron asked with a small smirk, barely visible as he caught her comment.

“Sir? Is it because it shows us both Actions have consequences and that everything that must happen will happen no matter what you choose?”

“Indeed Percy, Full credit,” Chiron smiled. “On that note, Mrs Dodds, could you lead us outside?”

Once outside, Grover had “lost” his pen and wandered over to Chiron.

“Sir, I’m worried he may already know too much. That was a very thorough answer. How do I protect him if he is that much of a beacon already?” Grover whispered, agitatedly.

“I understand and share your fears my young satyr, but my instincts say there is more to him than we realised,” Chiron whispered back as he gave Grover a new pen.

As Grover returned to Percy on his crutches, Nancy tripped the satyr causing him to faceplant painfully into the stone floor. Percy growled dangerously before a puddle that had been seeping in from the storm outside and under Nancy’s feet reacted to his anger and lifted from the floor, causing Nancy to stumble out into the rain, soaking her.

“PERCY PUSHED ME!” Nancy screamed, as Mrs Dodds appeared suddenly and towered over the three of them,

“Come with me, honey,” Mrs Dodds growled as Percy just glowered at Nancy.

“Grover, go tell Mr Brunner what happened, I’ll go and see what punishment I get this time.”

Percy followed Mrs Dodds back to the Greek section of the museum where they were alone. He knew she was a monster thanks to the improved senses he gained by being a werewolf, so was on edge as the storm increased its intensity and Mrs Dodds began to change.

“Confess and you will suffer less pain,” Mrs Dodds growled as her transformation completed.

“Confess to what?” Percy asked.

“Your time is up!” Mrs Dodds Screeched as she launched herself at Percy.

Trying not to reveal his unique biology, Percy rolled to the side, dodging Mrs Dodds first swipe. He looked around to try and find a sword he could use to fight back, as Chiron wheeled himself into the section.

“What Ho!” Chiron Yelled as he chucked a pen towards Percy.

After snatching the pen from the air, Percy found himself holding a sword as well balanced as his one back at the lupercal, making him smirk as he noticed Chiron had left again.

“DIE HONEY!” Mrs Dodds shrieked, as Percy stood ready with his sword.

Mrs Dodds flew at him again and he slashed, causing her to disintegrate. He walked outside and gave Chiron back his so-called pen.

—---------

Once back to school, Percy was called into the Principal’s office with Chiron, Nancy and Grover.

“Did you or did you not push her over Percy?” accused the Principal.

“She tripped Grover up, making him fall to the floor. Why am I getting in trouble and she isn’t when she injured a disabled student.” Percy argued. “ Yes, I gave her a small push so I could get past her to Grover. It’s not my fault she slipped in the wet weather.”

“She will be punished. However, you should worry more about yourself. You’re being expelled, Mr. Jackson. Is that understood?”

"What?! Just for pushing a bully out of the way to check on my friend?! The same one that she was bullying?!" Percy raged at the head teacher.

"No Percy, you're being expelled based on your less than stellar track record. The latest offence being, calling Mr. Nicoll an 'old sot'." the head teacher replied firmly.

Percy crossed his arms. "He was asking for it," he muttered.

“Get out of my office Percy.”

“Yes. Sir.” Percy ground out as he left to pack his things

—----------

Once percy got home, he headed straight to the pool in his wolf form to calm down, which is where Sally found him.

“Hey percy, I heard what happened. I agree with your side of things, especially since I know you could have done much worse to her. I’m proud of you for keeping your temper,” Sally soothed as she gave Percy a tight hug, made all the tighter by her enhanced strength. “When you are done in here we can catch up on everything you forgot to mention,” Sally said with no hints of annoyance.

—---------

A couple of hours later, Percy was back and at dinner with everyone.

“So what happened on the field trip, son?” Lycaon questioned with a wry smile on his face. This was nothing compared to the antics of the ancient Greek adolescents he had known. Homeschooling was always an option Percy could take.

“I got to show off my knowledge a bit and had a moan at Nancy for talking over our teacher. I think he’s a centaur, he always smells of horse. We went outside and my friend Grover,” Percy started

“Ah yes, the Satyr?” Sally asked knowingly.

“Yeah, he talked to Mr Brunner about something, and was on his way back to me when Nancy tripped him. I growled and a puddle shoved her while I checked on Grover. Then the maths teacher Mrs Dodds told me to follow her into the museum.”

“Isn’t she the one you didn’t trust?” Remus asked, concerned for his alpha’s pup.

“Yeah, was right too. Uncle H sent one of his kindly ones after me for some reason, probably related to whatever happened on the winter solstice. Mr Brunner chucked me a sword that hides as a pen, I killed Mrs Dodds and then got expelled. It’s funny how I got expelled over shoving Nancy and not for killing my teacher.”

“Well, that was an experience just hearing it. How are you feeling?” Lupa asked, a little concerned.

“I’m fine. Think I’ll take you up on that homeschooling next year.”

“Ok Percy, do you want to go to Montauk early? Me and you for a week?” Sally asked, putting a comforting hand on his shoulder.

“Yes please mom,” he replied, smiling for the first time that evening.

—---------------

At Montauk both Sally and Percy were enjoying the relaxation of being so close to the sea and being near where Sally had first met poseidon. However both seemed to feel the edge to the air that meant their trip would be cut short. That night they both woke up to a bellow of rage and a frantic knocking on the door

“O Zeu kai alloi theoi! (Oh Zeus and all the gods!) Wake up!” Grover shouted.

“Something’s found us! Percy, Grover get in the car now.” Sally ordered, every bit the alpha she had become.

They had barely got in when Sally floored the gas on the rental Nissan, heading along Long Island.

“Are we headed to camp?” Percy questioned as Grover freaked out, smelling more werewolf on Sally.

“Yes percy, you are being targeted,” Sally agreed. “Now calm your satyr friend down.”

“Grover!” Percy slapped Grover gently. “Grover, listen to me. I know you’re a satyr but the scent on us is what has protected me so far so snap out of your panic.” He noticed Grover had no pants on revealing his goat legs and cloven hooves.

—----------

Ten minutes of driving later, a lightning bolt hit the engine of the Nissan which flipped it and knocked Grover out as the car stopped

“Get out the car and get Grover out too Percy. I’ll buy you some time. You need to get past that pine.”

“No, you come with me! The Lupercal needs you too mom!”

“Alright, together, ready?”
As they ran up the hill, the large shape that had been chasing them threw the nissan. It crumpled into the hillside next to them. The beast started to charge up the hill towards the three of them.

“Scatter! It can’t change directions well. You can cross the boundary, I made sure of that, but I can’t. You have to leave me behind. It will leave me alone once you are gone!”

“NO!”

As they dodged and ran up the hill the Bull-man charged past them into view.

“That’s Pasiphae’s son, right mom?”

“Yes Percy”

As if he was using the conversation to choose a target, the minotaur charged straight at Sally who had fallen slightly behind. He grabbed her by the throat as Percy made it to the tree and laid Grover down on the safe side of it. Sally fought and tried to break out of the hold but before she could shift the beast’s giant fingers, a golden light stole her.

“NO! HEY, GROUND BEEF!” Percy Yelled as he shifted, wishing he hadn’t left his sword at the Lupercal.

With a burst of rage, and the claws and teeth in his wolf form, Percy quickly destroyed the minotaur, ripping one of its horns off in the process, before he shifted back and carried Grover down to the big farmhouse in the valley. Before reaching the house, he collapsed on the floor, completely passed out. Shifting so suddenly and emotionally caused a lot of strain on his body.

Chapter Text

When Percy awoke it was to an unfamiliar wooden ceiling. It was definitely not the cabin at Montauk and that quickly brought him back to the present.

“Well, someone has taken my mother. Neither of my dads will be impressed,” Percy said, thinking he was alone.

“You’re awake?!” Grover startled.

“Why are you so surprised?” Percy asked.

“You collapsed just last night!”

“Duh, I was exhausted. You woke me up in the middle of the night and then we had a massive adrenaline fueled chase and once we were safe I had an adrenaline crash.”

“Not all of us made it.” Grover whimpered and flinched as if he expected to be hit “your mom is dead….. I’m so sorry Percy.”

“No. She isn’t dead.” Percy stated. Percy then whispered “The minotaur isn't strong enough to bypass immunities.” Grover tilted his head, wondering what Percy said when Percy spoke again, “She was a mortal. Mortals leave bodies. There was no body. Therefore not dead. Stolen.”

“O ok? How are you feeling?”

“I’m starving, have you got any food? Can I get up?”

“We had some nectar set aside for you, you seem to be healed so it should just give you a boost. And yeah you can get up. Uhh Chiron and Mr D are waiting for you.”

Once Percy finished his drink, they headed out and saw a group of people sitting outside a large, sky-blue house at a picnic table playing a card game. As they got closer Percy saw that it was Mr Brunner, a camper with curly blond hair and a small, porky man that looked like a cherub who turned middle aged in a trailer park. However Percy could sense a power to that man.

As they got closer, they heard Mr Brunner say, “It appears the game goes to me,” with a clear smirk in his voice. The portly man threw down his cards and leaned back in his chair. Mr Brunner turned and waved cheerilly at Percy and Grover, “Ah Percy! I must admit, I am surprised to see you awake so soon.”

“Everyone seems so surprised except you sir.” Percy pointed out to the porky man warily but politely.

Grover dropped his head lower in his cowering bow, “Percy be careful that's our camp director Mr D you should be more respectful” he hissed.

“Ah yes, introductions are necessary,” Chiron stated. “I am Chiron, not Mr Brunner, that was a pseudonym. The camper here is Annabeth, she has been here longer than almost any other demigod, you already know Grover and this is Mr D our camp director.”

Percy nodded a greeting to each person as they were properly introduced. He then turned to Mr D and asked, “I assume Mr D stands for something, sir? I can smell a faint hint of grapes? Are you lord Dionysus?”

“You figured that out quickly child. Hmmm. We need to speak in private. Grover wait near the clearing for me to discuss your latest assignment. Chiron, with us.”

Chiron put down his cup and moved to follow Mr D and Percy into the big house. “Annabeth, go sort out Percy’s bunk. I will continue his tour after this conversation,” he said over his shoulder.

—-------

Percy followed Dionysus and Chiron into the main sitting room in the Big House. After Chairon and Percy had entered the room Dionysus slammed the door, turned sharply towards Percy and growled, “Why are you here werewolf? What do you want from this camp?”

“I am here because the fates needed me here. I want a place to train that isn’t just my family home and to protect people,” Percy responded.

Dionysus glared straight into Percy’s eyes for a few long seconds. When he seemed satisfied that Percy wasn’t lying he said, “You do realise you have to keep yourself hidden if you want to live here? The campers would not tolerate a monster among them.”

“I understand. How should we explain the nature spirits dislike of my scent though Mr D?”

“You were, by chance, adopted by a werewolf that didn’t eat you.”

“Wait a second Dionysus, what do you mean Percy's a werewolf?” Chiron interjected, confused.

“My mother married into a nice pack to hide my scent. After a confrontation with a god my mother realised I would be still deemed a half blood/ demigod despite the fact I'm no longer mortal for prophecies, so we joined the pack fully,” Percy answered, bending the truth while still looking at Mr D.

“Ah I see.”

—------------

Back outside Chiron started the tour, “How much do you know of our world?”

“I know a lot more than I should for my age and schooling. Where will I be staying?”

“Cabin 11 for now, until you are claimed.”

“Huh. why there?”

“Hermes is the patron of travellers. Do you have your own sword and shield?”

After taking a moment to process the random topic change Percy responded, “Sword, at home in vegas, shield I don't use.”

“I'll have to look in the armoury for you.”

After a long and confusing conversation where Percy had to infer much from his preexisting knowledge, as Chiron was being extremely vague and unhelpful, they reached the cabins. An eclectic lot with every cabin being completely unique. As they got closer Percy realised cabins 1, 2 ,3 and 8 were all empty.

“I understand why 2 and 8 are empty as they don’t have any demigod children, but what about 1 and 3? Lord Z and lord P should have lots of children,” Percy said, slightly smirking as he knew the answer. He just wanted to see what Chiron would reveal.

“Indeed, 1 and 3 are empty but that shouldn’t concern you, let's continue,” Chiron deflected.

Soon they arrived at cabin 11, which looked like an evacuation centre instead of a cabin. Outside, Annabeth was waiting.

“Annabeth, I have a masters archery class at noon, can you take Percy from here?”

“Yes Chiron,” Anabeth said as if she’d expected it but still wasn’t happy about it.

“Very good, this is cabin eleven Percy, make yourself at home”

Chapter Text

As Percy followed Annabeth into the Hermes cabin he saw an eclectic set of bunk-beds and sleeping mats scattered throughout the cabin. An older boy, taller than Percy, with sandy blonde hair and piercing blue eyes that looked far more cunning than the rest of his beaming face stood, came over and while shaking Percy’s hand said, “Welcome, you must be Percy, are you one of Hermes kids or undetermined?”

“Undetermined. Percy this is your councillor Luke,” Annabeth answered.

“Ah well,” Luke said, appearing disappointed. “Welcome to the cabin Percy. You get that spot on the floor,” he pointed to a slightly beat up orange sleeping bag and mat.

“What do you mean undetermined?” Percy questioned. “I know who my father is. I was told about my heritage on my way here.”

“You still need to be officially claimed,” Luke explained.

“Why?” Percy asked. “You guys need the space.”

“Because those are the rules. Now come on Percy, I need to show you the amphitheatre,” Annabeth snapped, dragging him away.

“Hey! Wait!” he shouted back. Luke waved as Percy was unceremoniously taken away.

After a couple of minutes of being roughly hauled towards the amphitheatre they came up next to the lake and Percy finally had enough. “I've already seen it!” he snapped as he wrestled free and they came to a stop.

“You need to do better. I can't believe I thought you might be my ticket to a quest.”

“I need to do better? I just got here. I may know my parent and a lot of what I thought were myths but I'm a newbie for our parents sakes!” Percy growled.

As Annabeth was about to retort, a burly, well muscled girl walked up with a dangerous smile on her face.

“Well, who’s the newbie?” she said.

“Percy Jackson, meet Clarisse, daughter of Ares.” Annabeth said with a sigh.

“You look like a good fighter Clarisse, nice to meet you” Percy stated a lot more respectful than he was to Annabeth.

“That's the best greeting I've had from a newbie” Clarisse smirked, “ But that won't save you from the initiation.” as she grappled Percy hard.

Percy fought back, and had Clarisse off of him before she got a full hold. It quickly became an impromptu wrestling match which impressed Clarisse. Eventually, she got hold of Percy again, but he was prepared and flipped her over his shoulder into the lake.

“Did I pass?” Percy sarcastically said to Clarisse. He offered her a hand out the lake - no doubt it would’ve been the other way around if he was in the water. After a second or two, Clarisse accepted his help.

“Yeah. That was impressive. I should hate you but nah, a good fighter is someone I'd rather work with” She shook her head, splattering him with water, “ I'll let you get settled in today, but tomorrow? I’m going to look for you”

“She’s going to beat you up tomorrow. But I want you on my team, when capture the flag starts” Annabeth said suspiciously as the dinner conch sounded.

—----------

Percy re-joined the Hermes cabin ready for dinner. When he saw how full the table was he decided to kneel next to the bench rather than crushing people even more on the seats

“To sort your drink and food just say to your cup and plate what you want” Luke explained

“Blue cherry coke” Percy asked the cup nodding as it filled up before asking for brisket

After getting his food, Percy noticed everyone getting up and realised that they were sacrificing food to the gods

“So we sacrifice the best bits to the gods right Luke?” Percy questioned already knowing the answer

“Yep, makes them not smite us”

“Cool”

When Percy got up to the brazier he knew exactly who he would sacrifice his food to

“To Poseidon for being my father, to Hermes for letting me stay in his cabin, to Dionysus for letting me stay at camp and to Hestia for being Hestia” Percy mumbled, noticing Dionysus subtly thanking him for the offering

—-------

After an uncomfortable night squished on the floor, which wouldn’t have been so bad if he could’ve been in wolf form, Percy was ready to train with Clarisse.

“I mean since you are unclaimed you can do activities with other cabins but generally we all stick together in Hermes” Luke explained, just before Percy headed over to the arena.

“Yeah, well, Clarisse is a good fighter from what I've seen and will probably help me learn multiple weapons. A daughter of War would be good with a wide range, compared to everyone else specialising?” Percy tried to explain, confused as to why Luke was being weird about it. As far as he saw it, working with Clarisse was a good place to start.

—-------

Once Percy arrived Clarisse headed over to him.

“Firstly we need to get you a weapon. We will head to our armoury and then start training”

“Ok Clarisse” Percy said as they headed to the armoury.

Once there, they spent a good hour testing every single weapon. There was one issue. None of them were balanced for Percy, no matter what he picked.

Shocked? Confused? Baffled? Clarisse couldn’t put a finger on the emotion that rose, watching Percy give a few practice swings with each weapon. Then twice more, for good measure. “I have literally never seen that before”

Percy wasn’t as bothered as she thought “I don't know. Chiron chucked me a sword at the museum when I fought a kindly one. That was balanced but it took my mother begging my father to make me an Olympian silver sword that I could use at home” He replaced the sword he’d been testing back in its place, “ I know it's dangerous to know my parentage, but my mum married a werewolf who chose to raise me so... yeah”

She raised an eyebrow. That raised a lot of questions. “I’ll talk to Chiron later about it. I’m going to ignore the werewolf comment for now, but I'll find time in private to discuss it if I think I need to. For now, we’ll head back to the arena. Hand to hand may be a better place to start instead”

They returned to the arena. And by the end of the timeslot, Percy was accepted as part of the Ares cabins training times. He was a fast learner, keeping up with the pace thrown at him. As the session came to a close, he was friendly with the Ares campers, whereas most others were scared of them.

At dinner, while the campers were occupied, Clarisse asked Chiron for a private meeting.

“What is wrong, Clarisse?” Chiron asked gently. It was extremely rare for the Ares head counsellor to seek him out.

She didn’t sugar-coat the issue, getting right to the point, “Do you know of a phenomenon where no sword in the armoury is balanced for a demigod?”

The bluntness of the question surprised him. Chiron mulled over her words, considering his response. “It is rare. As far as I am aware, only certain demigods have that issue. Generally Hephaestus’ and Poseidon’s demigods are the ones who cannot. They either have it forged underwater, or by their own hands” Chiron explained

Clarisse’s response was to look back towards where the other campers had been, “Well… our newbie Percy has that issue. He mentioned you had given him a sword at the museum? His words, not mine”

Chiron blinked. “I am not supposed to give the sword without knowing the person's parentage. I took enough of a risk giving it to him then”

“Well, doesn’t it seem odd? That sword is the only sword in the camp he can wield?” Clarisse persisted. The situation intrigued her, and it was likely she wasn’t the only one that wanted to know more.

Chiron held up a hand, cutting the conversation short “Let me make a call”

—------------

The next day, Chiron came over to Clarisse. He handed her a pen, before she could ask questions.

“This is the sword. Tell Percy that it is hidden as a pen and he cannot lose it as it will return to his pocket. If he takes the cap off, it will become a blade and vice versa. Capping it will return it to pen form.” Chiron explained before he walked off to teach archery

Once Clarisse found Percy she explained what Chiron told her.

“Cool, should we practise with it so I'm not a total newbie when the Hermes cabin does sword fighting? I've been bouncing between both cabins' activities as it is.” Percy asked

“Absolutely, I wanted to do this yesterday” Clarisse couldn’t hold back a grin as they headed to the arena.

Percy quickly proved he was a natural swordsman and Clarisse was impressed. They rapidly drew the attention of the rest of the cabin. Clarisse won every round but Percy was on par with the rest of the Ares cabin and improving despite fighting with one hand and no shield.

“That was a good fight. Would you like to join our team for capture the flag?” Clarisse asked genuinely wondering

“Absolutely. I refused to outright say yes or no to Annabeth, but she is constantly cold and sharp with me. I only got out of ancient Greek as I'm already fluent so I manage to dodge her most of the time” Percy agreed
as he headed over to archery with the Hermes cabin.

However, once at archery he quickly got banned from continuing. His arrow wound up tangled in Chiron's tail. Who was stood behind him. Not such a good start to his training at camp, and it earned him some funny looks.

Chapter Text

On Thursday, Percy made his way to the arena with the Hermes cabin for their training session. A couple of the Hermes kids were murmuring to one another when he arrived - because some of the Ares campers had decided to watch the training.

“Alright, we are going to start with basic cuts on straw dummies. Percy if you come with me I’ll find you a sword” Luke ordered

“No thank you Luke, I have one, Clarisse made sure of it” Percy responded, drawing his new sword, which had been engraved with the name Anaklusmos. Percy had quickly translated its name to riptide.

“Well then. Since you are new, even though you trained with Clarisse, I will train you today” Luke responded a little confused having not seen where Percy had kept his sword

It was very quickly clear to Luke that Clarisse had trained Percy hard as he was doing better than some of the campers that had been there longer. Once everyone had spent some time attacking the dummies, Luke started pairing people up

“Alright, basic strikes and blocks. I am paired with Percy but will wander around and help anyone here who needs it” Luke said

Everyone started to train as Luke showed Percy the basics not realising Percy knew what he was doing already. Percy got on well with Luke but something was making him feel off around Luke and Percy had learned to trust his instinctive feelings so he decided not to go all out yet. After a while Luke decided it was time for a demonstration

“Alright, this is a difficult move and generally takes years to master. Now if Percy is ok with it I will be using him to show how it works.”

Luke demonstrated how he can use the flat of his blade to twist the sword out of someone's grip.

“Alright, now Percy, in real time, we keep sparring until one of us pulls it off”

The round started as Clarisse joined the watchers in the stands. Percy was clearly still holding back; Clarisse could tell he did better against her. Still, Percy wouldn’t give up a fight without a proper loss. After 5 minutes, Percy pulled the move off, disarming Luke. The watching Ares campers cheered.

“Nice work, Luke clearly was trying his usual hazing and like mine it backfired.” Clarisse smirked as she clapped Percy on the back.

“Thanks Clarisse. Think I can finish the sword fighting lesson here Luke? Still got to attempt the lava wall and want to be ready for Capture The Flag”

“Sure, make sure to go to the infirmary if you get hurt. I hear Annabeth wants you especially on her team” Luke faltered, a bit put out that his hazing was cut short. He quickly continued, before either of them could notice “Afterall, unclaimed campers can choose which team they work with”

After Percy left, Clarisse and the Ares campers dispersed.

“I’m glad I chose your team Clarisse, Annabeth has a plan involving me and the look in Luke’s eye seemed as though he knew and didn’t like it” Percy chatted as Clarisse joined him by the wall.

“Yeah, she probably thinks I hate you and will try to turn you into bait” Clarisse shrugged, “I'm thinking of having you either on defence or offence. Probably defence as it means if Annabeth gets vindictive, you have backup”

“I agree, thanks for being upfront about your plans”

“Athena may have the domain of strategy, but war is war and strategy is intrinsic to it. Ares still knows strategy but the big difference is Athena doesn’t factor in the human element” She shrugged again, “Things like emotions and reactions to being used as bait never factor into their plans. Whereas my father is more emotionally understanding when it comes to strategies, but a lot more violent. So he's just seen as an unstrategic brute.”

“Interesting. I think people forget that the gods were not as vastly different in most cases in the change to Rome and Ares became a major god in Rome who was a strategist. Which means he got that from Ares. Since they must be the same person. After all, Chiron said that they were the same gods but different names so yeah”

“Good point, race you to the top?”

A grin crept across Percy’s face. “You’re on”

After the race that ended in a tie, Percy found Grover and decided to have a chat with him.

“Is your career still on track?” Percy asked genuinely

“It's on hold. Chiron and Mr D suspended judgement. They're saying that if I complete a quest with you, I’d get my licence in return” Grover whined

“I'm sure something will happen. In the meantime, can you tell me about the Big 3 please?”

Grover explained, confirming Percy's prior knowledge. After dinner, everyone gathered, ready to capture the flag.

“Alright. Red team to me” Clarisse called, nodding at Percy. As he crossed over, he kept an eye on Luke and Annabeth’s expressions. The latter, unsurprisingly, snapped first.

“And where do you think you are going? Annabeth growled

“To the team that were upfront and honest about their plans and helped me get a working weapon. And didn't leave the first lesson until the day of the game.” Percy retorted as he put on his armour

"If I recall, she tried to shove your head in a toilet” Annabeth snarled, still furious, “You're making a mistake”

“You're the one getting angry at me for not following you, despite how rude you were when we first met” Percy shook his head, “Luke tried to humiliate me in sword fighting. That didn't work out for him. Don't deny it - you wanted a newbie to use an advanced technique on you” Percy finished getting ready, letting her stew in silence.

Annabeth seethed as the teams headed into the woods. Percy, Castor, Beckendorf and Jake were on flag defence, while the Ares cabin pushed on the attack. Not long after the game started, Percy felt eyes on him, and not mortal eyes at that.

“Do you guys feel like we're being watched?” Percy enquired, keeping his voice casual.

“Now you ask, yeah” Jake Mason, son of Hephaestus, admitted

“Eyes up then guys. Lets not let the Ares campers down” Castor decreed

They all got ready to protect the flag, just as Percy smelt campers nearing their position.. Percy suddenly struck, surprising his allies, even more so when it seemed to connect with another blade.

“Well then Annabeth. Here to get revenge on me for not choosing your bait plan?” Percy taunted

“Percy, if you can keep her occupied the 3 of us will hold the fort. She is the biggest threat” Beckendorf called

Percy nodded as he started trying to push Annabeth back. There was a lot of back and forth fighting, with Percy using instincts to counter Annabeth's invisibility. He was careful to make it appear intentional as he made it near the creek. Once at the water’s edge, he used his water powers to steal Annabeth's cap. That was what he’d seen her use to turn invisible.

“ERRE ES KORAKAS!” Annabeth yelled as she charged at Percy in anger.

As they battled by the creek it was clear Percy had the advantage. Not long after, Clarisse ran across the creek carrying the Athena Cabin’s flag to great cheering from her side.

“THIS IS ALL YOUR FAULT PERCY! YOU RUINED EVERYTHING!” Annabeth yelled as Percy panicked, realising that the eyes from earlier were staring at him.

“Annabeth, get down. Now” Percy said calmly as he tensed up.

“What? No” Annabeth argued, confusion fighting her annoyance.

Without warning, Percy leapt at her. His momentum knocked both of them over as something sailed through the space where they’d just been. Percy recovered quicker; instinctively, he used water to make a shield. The beast whipped around and went to pounce again as Chiron rushed over. Before it could move, he put 3 arrows in its neck, killing it. Once the immediate threat had passed, Percy let the water drop back to the creek and returned Annabeth's cap.

In between breaths, he realised everyone was staring at him. When he looked up, he saw why. His fathers symbol glowed above him, bright enough for all to see.

“It is determined. Hail Perseus Jackson, son of Poseidon." Chiron said as all the campers knelt - he was the first big 3 kid to make it to camp in nearly a century.

Chapter Text

The next day Percy was moved into Cabin 3. Most of the camp were avoiding him, Luke was worried that his plan for Percy would fail due to his hazing failing, and the lack of trust that was clear to see. Annabeth hated Percy for his parentage and his attitude that he gave, refusing to let her order him around. Clarisse however made sure that she and the Ares cabin kept being friendly with Percy. He was strong, friendly and loyal. He gave as good as he got with the banter and was improving in his fighting skills. Percy wasn’t happy being excluded like he was but he still had his friends in Ares cabin and Grover, and he could sleep in his wolf form instead of having to stay in his human form.

The Monday after Capture the Flag Percy was awoken by a hoof knocking on his door, once he was dressed he opened the door.

“Hey G-man, what's up?”

“Mr D wants to see you.” Grover said worried

“Let me guess, up high have made a decision on my continued existence. Lets go”

Once they reached the big house, Percy bowed slightly to Mr D before sitting down

“I see you are aware of why you are here at least in part Perry Johanson” Mr D stated

“Indeed sir, I am not meant to exist so my uncles will wish for my death yet my father is known to be protective so I am causing issues for the council” Percy obfuscated

“Indeed. My father has offered an ultimatum. I believe your better choice is to let me transform you into a dolphin and send you to your father but that would not be a permanent solution to the big issue. Instead you have been ordered to complete a quest.”

“Mr D are you sure we should say so much” Chiron interjected

“The fate of our world and the mortal world rests on this quest Chiron. Apollo told me I had to ensure Perseus knew the stakes and job before he visited the oracle.”

“I assume it is why the weather has been weird since the winter solstice.” Percy asked when Mr D stopped his conversation with Chiron

“Indeed. My father’s master bolt was stolen. Now, many of us including your fathers biggest rival have agreed you could not have been the thief. However, my father will not be persuaded. He has ordered you to retrieve his bolt by the summer solstice or he will wage war with your father”

“Can I ask a couple of questions?”

“Go ahead. I am hoping for you to succeed so I will answer as best I am allowed to”

“Firstly, are we certain only one item was stolen? And Secondly, are any of the other gods aware of my other side?”

“From the council, yes, however I will try to enquire with our uncle, why did you ask? And Apollo and your father are but none other than us 3 at the moment.”

“Only my uncles could have sent Pasiphae's son. I am to believe that only my uncle below us could hold a person in stasis at the point they should have died. So he has taken my mother hostage, I believe to try and make me return something he believes I have stolen. So my uncles don’t realise that smiting me will mean I return with a reason to fight against them.” Percy explains as Mr D and Chiron both pale a bit realising the impact on the great prophecy.

“Do you accept the quest?”

“I do”

“I will attempt to gain an audience with my uncle. You have an audience with the oracle up in the attic” Mr D finished before disappearing to attempt to contact hades.

Percy ventured up into the attic and met the Mummy hosting the oracle

“I am the oracle of Delphi, Approach seeker and ask” the green mist that emanated from the mummy spoke

“How am I to find the stolen items”

The mist turned into a pack of wolves

“You shall go west and face the god who has turned” the oldest wolf stated

“You shall find what has been stolen and see it safely returned” the second oldest stated

“You shall be betrayed by one who pretends to be a friend” the barely adolescent wolf decreed

“And you shall fail to hide what matters most in the end” the pup finished

Percy left the attic concerned to return to Chiron

“Ah you have returned. Did you get your prophecy?”

“Yes, it said I shall go west and face a god who has turned and see the stolen items safely returned.”

“I see, the underworld is in the west, hidden in los angeles. I would advise you to head there.”

“I understand, I assume I get 2 companions?”

“Yes you do”

“Grover, I know we may be headed to the underworld but I have a quest and you want your licence, you good to join me?”

“Y yeah. I can do this. I can prove myself”

“Excellent, the other has already volunteered if you will accept them” Chiron states as Annabeth takes her cap off.

“I may not like you but I am your only chance at not messing this up”

“Absolutely not. If you are so desperate to leave camp go home at the end of summer. I will not take someone who I cannot trust to not sacrifice her soldiers on a quest to save the world.”

“Athena is the strategist of the gods and you need a strategy.”

“I. Said. No. I will not have you join me on this quest. You are a brilliant fighter but you don't take into account the human factor. Now Chiron, I am going to ask my personal choice to join me and then I will be off on this quest.” Percy growled as he stalked to the arena.

Once at the arena

“Clarisse!” Percy called “can we talk, maybe with your second in charge of your cabin?”

“Sherman come with me” Clarisse ordered as she went over to Percy “whats up Fish”

“I have a quest. Grover the satyr is my first companion as he needs to go on a quest with me. I want you Clarisse as the final member of the group.”

“A quest means fighting monsters in the real world with real stakes. I'm in but I wanna know what the stakes are. Sherman, you are acting head councillor.” Clarisse decided

“Alright. We have until the summer solstice to find the stolen Master Bolt and return it to the king or war will rage between the sky and the sea. I also personally think that my other uncle has also been stolen from and so we are heading to the underworld. Are you still in?” Percy whispered as they returned to the big house

“Fuck yeah. Lets go”

Chapter Text

Back at the big house Percy and Clarisse could see Annabeth trying to argue with Chiron. Chiron discreetly nodded at them and Grover as Argus waved at them to beckon them over. Heading over there, Argus pointed at one of the camp's strawberry delivery vans. As they crested Half blood hill, luke turned up

“I'm glad I caught you. As Chiron is busy I'll do the quick brief about how the start of the quest will go. Argus will take you to the long haul bus stop in Manhattan.”

“That makes sense, thank you for clarifying”

“I also have a gift for you. They served me well on my quest but I don’t need them anymore” luke said as he handed Percy some shoes

“What do they do?”

“Maia” luke said causing wings to sprout from the shoes

“Cool, thank you Luke. Now we need to go and save both worlds” Percy states as the 3 questers head to Argus.

Once in the van Percy has a thought

“Guys, I can't wear these shoes Luke gave me. I can't fly and these are flying shoes”

“Good point, lets just keep them in one of our backpacks” Clarisse asked

“Yeah sure, I have space in mine” Grover answered

—----------------

While they waited for the bus that would take them into the next state, the trio played hackysack with an apple but it went wrong when it got too close to Grover's mouth and he ate it all in one bite, stem and all. Not long after that the bus to New Jersey arrived.

On the bus Grover led the trio to the back but while Grover stashed his bag, Clarisse and Percy both felt something off about that and kept theirs on trusting their instincts. They were soon proven right as 3 old ladies entered who were not old ladies at all.

“All three kindly ones?” Clarisse whispered concerned

“It appears so” Percy responded drawing riptide

As the bus entered a tunnel the 3 furies walked up to the questers

“I need to use the toilet” the first said

“So do I” the other 2 chorused as they stalked up the middle of the bus

“Are there any emergency exits?” Grover asked looking around

“Nope, this bus is a fates damned safety nightmare” Clarisse cursed as Percy had a thought.

“It's me they want. Either you both try to distract them as I sneak forwards or I distract them.”

“Percy, you clearly have a plan to sneak past. Me and the goat boy will distract them” Clarisse orders

Percy quickly ducked down as Clarisse stood up with a sword in her hand. Once he knew both Clarisse and Grover were busy he shifted into his wolf form and snuck up along the bus before becoming human again in an empty seat before realising they were exiting the tunnel. Percy grabbed a bottle someone had abandoned on the bus and threw it at the emergency stop button which caused the bus to skid towards the river. Once it stopped the driver and all the other passengers ran off the bus. When the bodies cleared Percy saw that Clarisse and Grover were trapped. Thinking fast Percy yelled “GROVER CATCH” and threw riptide into the back of one of the furies disintegrating it.

“The hades was that Percy?” Grover bleated as Clarisse noticed the sword and used it to kill the second fury before passing it back to Percy as he came up to them

“Hello Mrs Dodds. Braccas meas vescimini” Percy said smirking as he stabbed her before he felt the air change. “WE HAVE TO GO NOW”

The trio ran off the bus and into the woods before laughing the stress away as the adrenaline wore off. They walked deeper into the woods but soon Clarisse seemed off. Like she was following a pull somewhere. As they followed Clarisse, Percy and Grover started to smell monster, getting stronger as they approached a statue shop.

“Don’t go in Clarisse, I smell monsters” Grover bleated

“All I smell is cheeseburgers” Clarisse responded distracted

“Clarisse. Always listen to the satyr. Remember? You told me that?” Percy tried as Clarisse entered

“Grover put the flying shoes on” Percy decided

“I Can't, they were in my bag” Grover denied

“Damn you are right” Percy stated as he kept half an eye on Clarisse walking further into the trap while he rooted through his backpack for a spare weapon for Grover.

“If you put them in my bag?” Grover started “then how are they in mine now?” Percy finished as he gave them to Grover alongside a dagger he found before Percy ran in to support Clarisse

Inside they found Clarisse talking to a woman in a veil. Percy realised the woman wasn’t aware he was there and he started sneaking up behind her

“Percy! The monster I smell is Medusa!” Grover called as he flew in with a wooden plank and attempted to knock out the lady talking to Clarisse

“What the fuck!” Clarisse exclaimed as she noticed that she was no longer in the woods after the magic wore off. As the woman got up her veil had fallen off and revealed her snake hair.

“CLARISSE CLOSE YOUR EYES” Percy shouted as he swung at medusa's neck

With a wet slap Medusa’s head hit the floor.

“Someone finds her veil, her gaze can still petrify” Clarisse ordered as she realised the danger had passed.

Once the veil was over her head everyone relaxed.

“What do we do with the head?” Grover questioned

“Is there a box that would fit it? My stepdad would love such a trophy for the home” Percy asked completely out the blue

“Yes? And a packing slip" Clarisse said after a brief rummage. Percy quickly sent it off via Hermes express hoping it would prove to lycaon he was doing fine.

—----------

At the Lupercal Hermes had delivered the package to the receptionist

“Alpha could you come to reception, there's a package for you with multiple warning labels” the receptionist called over the intercom

When Lycaon got down to the reception he quickly spied the box

“Looks like Percy’s handwriting, it is to go in the trophy room. I will put it there myself as it has so many warning labels.”

Up in the trophy room Lycaon carefully extracted the head before making sure it faced away from him as he removed the veil, before tying a blindfold over her eyes to keep people safe while it is displayed.

Chapter Text

In the morning, the trio woke up glad that Percy had suggested they make use of the beds in the garden gnome emporium. Grover had taken the last watch and met a friend.

“Hello there, who are you?” Percy asked the dog politely, confusing Clarisse

“His name is Gladiola, and he has offered to help us with transport,” Grover explained.

“Ok, how can a pink poodle help us?” Clarisse asked

“There is a $200 reward for his return, as he ran away from his owners. He is willing to go back to help us get across the states,” Grover explained.

“How did he know?” Clarisse asked, kinda impressed

“He read the signs. Dogs are surprisingly good readers,” Percy commented, forgetting that the other 2 didn’t know his secret.

“Y yeah, like Percy said,” Grover agreed

“So we hand Gladiola over and get a ride west? Clarisse confirmed

—-------------------

With the reward money, the trio boarded a train to Denver. As they sped across the states, they got to know each other more.

“So Percy, you have known about all this for years?” Clarisse asked

“Yeah. Like I said, stepdad is a werewolf, as is basically all my non-godly family at this point. Mum became one after I was born, and when I started messing with water, they had to tell me the truth,” Percy explained.

“Why didn’t you tell me or Chiron?” Grover asked

“Didn’t know if I could trust you. I'd been warned of your scent by mum and had to make sure” Percy lied slightly.

“Fair enough. I mean, if I knew about this and was told mythical beings were in my school, I’d be cautious,” Clarisse agreed.

“Ok. Yeah, I can get that,” Grover grudgingly agreed.

—--------

As the train arrived in St Louis, the conductor announced that there would be a three-hour layover. Quickly, the trio made a decision.

“We should stay here. It's too risky to leave the train,” Clarisse stated

“Agreed. If anything went wrong and we missed the train, we would be screwed,” Percy said

“But aren’t we sitting ducks?” Grover asked

“Yes, but it's better than missing the train,” Clarisse countered, ending the argument.

—-------------

By sheer luck, the trio wasn’t attacked for the whole three hours.

“So glad I sent the head home instead of to our more powerful family. No grudges from them,” Percy mumbled.

As the train pulled into Denver, the trio had to get off earlier than they wanted.

“Let's hope there is a transport method to get to Los Angeles," Clarisse stated

“First of all, food,” Percy countered

“There’s a diner over there, shall we eat?” Grover asked

“Sure, let's eat,” Clarisse agreed.

—---------------

Once inside, the trio ordered their food as a massive Harley rocked up outside, and the rider entered, heading over to them.

“Father,” Clarisse bowed

“Lord Ares.” Grover and Percy bowed

“Huh, at least you kids are respectful. I have an offer for you.”

“What is the offer, lord Ares?”

“I left my shield at a water park. You will get it for me, in return, I will give you transport west.”

“Of course we will, Father. Thank you,” Clarisse agreed as Percy started to get angry at Ares.

Ares left after the trio's agreement. Once they finished their meals, they walked out and went straight to the waterpark.

“Well. I guess we have to hope this doesn't take too long,” Percy grumbled as they climbed the abandoned water park's gate.

“Wonder why he left his shield here?” Grover asked

“I’d guess father was on a date and got scared off.”

“By what?” Grover asked

“If your father is dating the goddess of love, who is married to the god of the forge, could it be another trap set by Hephaestus?” Percy asked

“Of course,” Clarisse sighed.

“Well, if this is a water park, maybe I can help with avoiding the trap?” Percy suggested

“Let's find it first,” Grover decided.

—------------

When the trio got to the thrill ride of love, they found the shield in the abandoned ride’s boat.

“I'm gonna try to make the water lift the boat. Can someone try turning the water on?” Percy asked

“Of course,” Grover said before mashing buttons in the control room. Percy used that as an excuse to start pulling the water into the ride, making it seem as though a button had been pressed. As the water rose, Clarisse reached out to the boat.

“Percy, can you shift the boat closer?” Clarisse asked

“On it,” Percy agreed.

“Thank you,” Clarisse said as she pulled the shield and scarf out, setting off the trap.

“Well, that was close. Shall we go find Ares?” Percy asked as they walked away from the trap that was broadcasting a flooded pool to Olympus.

—-----------------------

“How’d you escape the trap punks?” Ares asked annoyed

“Water park. Key word is water,” Percy snarked

“Huh. Well, a deal is a deal. And with the scarf, I'll give you an additional gift.” Ares scoffed as he chucked a backpack to Percy

“There is your ride, kids. But it leaves soon, so you'd best get going,” Ares decreed, pointing at a van about to leave.

“Thank you, lord Ares,” Grover replied as Ares disappeared.

“We need to get going. The zoo express leaves soon,” Percy said as they approached the van for a company called Kindness International.

In the back, they soon realised it was not kind. The animals were starving, dirty, and overheated.

“This can't be legal?” Clarisse asked

“The lion is saying these guys are smugglers,” Grover agreed.

“I have a plan. The guys were saying a stopover in Vegas, and I know people in Vegas. What I need is help executing the plan,” Percy started explaining as the van got going.

“What do you need us to do?” Clarisse growled, trying not to just kill the driver and his accomplice

“When we stop, I need a distraction so I can slash the tires and fuel line,” Percy requested

“Easy enough,” Grover agreed.

—--------------

When the van stopped in Vegas, Grover and Clarisse started the distraction, allowing Percy to cripple the van. While he was hidden under the van, he shifted and did a very specific bark pattern. Once done, he waited for the backup he had called in.

“What's the situation?” a much older werewolf asked Percy, having heard the barks.

“Animal smugglers. Me and my fellow questors and I were given it as a transport from an Olympian. I know Vegas has you guys. So. I asked them to distract, and I would call for backup.” Percy explained.

The werewolf quickly sorted the smugglers out and got a transport sorted for the animals to a safe zoo. Meanwhile, the trio had snuck off.

“We need a new transport method,” Grover realised

“We need somewhere to stay the night first,” Clarisse countered

“What about that casino there?” Grover asked, pointing at the Lotus Hotel and Casino

“NO!!!” Percy shouted and started bodily dragging the two away.

“What's wrong with that place, Perce?” Grover asked once they were far enough away

“Think. The Odyssey. Lotus Eaters,” Percy explained.

“Ohhh. But now, where do we go? Clarisse asked

Chapter Text

“Don't worry, I know where to go to get us a good reset,” Percy stated calmly, leading them to a different hotel.

“The Lupercal?” Clarisse asked.

“Yep, let me do the talking”, Percy stated as he walked up to the door guard.

“Halt. This is not a hostel,” the guard stated as kindly as possible, looking at the messy, dirty kids standing at the door.

“Hey Jasmine, it's Percy. Would show proof, but I'm on a quest and my fellow questors don't know my secret.” Percy tried.

“Let me just call my supervisor”, Jasmine ordered

“What seems to be the problem, Jasmine?” the supervisor asked.

“Oh, hey, Remus”, Percy said

“Oh, hey, Percy, what's up?” Remus asked.

“My friends and I are on a quest. We need a place to clean up, get rest and figure out a lift to the underworld,” Percy explained.

“Come in. I'll get you up to your rooms, etc”, Remus said, walking everyone in

—----------------

A couple of hours later, the trio had cleaned up and were getting hungry.

“Let's go down to the buffet. I've got my stuff now, so we don’t have to pay,” Percy decided as they relaxed in the clean clothes.

“Sure," Clarisse agreed as they headed downstairs.
In the buffet room, Lycaon was waiting.

“Hey, Dad. I've missed you,” Percy called, hugging his stepdad.

“Hey, kiddo, are these your friends?” Lycaon asked, hugging back.

“Yep, Clarisse, Grover, meet my dad, Lycaon. Dad, my friends and questers Grover and Clarisse,” Percy introduced.

“Nice to meet you, I got your trophy, kiddo. Well done on killing Medusa. What's the overall quest?” Lycaon asked.

“Uncle Z and potentially Uncle H have been stolen from, and I am blamed. I have to return Uncle Z’s bolt, or war will begin. So we are headed to the underworld, and then hopefully Olympus.” Percy explained, while Grover was struggling due to the werewolf scent, and Clarisse was just in shock from Percy’s home

“That is serious. We have everything you need to continue the quest. I'll get Luna to drive you guys to DOA recording studios after you relax and reset yourselves,” Lycaon replied, then whispered to his stepson, “Kiddo, you may wanna tell your friends the truth about you”

“How do I do that?” Percy whispered back.

“We can discuss tomorrow,” Lycaon decided.

—------------------

The next day, Percy led Clarisse and Grover to the training rooms.

“I have something I want to tell you both, but I don't know how, and I am worried I will lose your trust”

“What do you mean, Percy?” Clarisse asked, concerned.

“Is it to do with your stepdad being a werewolf?” Grover asked.

“Kind of. Only, it's not just step-dad, or mum.” Percy started.

“I'm guessing the other staff here are werewolves?” Clarisse said

“Yes, but I. I am also a werewolf. Mum changed me to give me a better chance with all these prophecies,” Percy.

“Doesn't surprise me that much, thinking about it, " Clarisse stated, having looked back at the previous interactions.

“It also explains your werewolf scent,, Grover agreed, calming more as he knew he could trust Percy.

“You guys aren’t annoyed or scared of me?” Percy questioned

“Nope, it explains your comment with gladiola, the way you fight and your quick decisions on who to trust and the strength to flip me into the lake”, Clarisse explained.

“Thank you for understanding. I was worried. Only Chiron and Mr D know at camp. I want to keep it on the down low. You two know me, but most would see me as a monster,” Percy explained.

“We have your back. When we spar, will I injure you or not?” Clarisse asked, intrigued.

“As long as it isn't silver, I will be fine to fight you and take any hits you give out”, Percy explained as he grabbed his silver sword.

“You good for a spar? Grover seems to be thinking hard about what you told us a bit, so it will keep us busy?” Clarisse asked

“Absolutely," Percy agreed as he pulled out Riptide as well and settled into his favourite fighting stance.

—---------------

A couple of hours later, the pair finished their spar, and Grover had fully calmed.

“This is why you said your mum wasn’t dead. She was a werewolf. The minotaur can’t kill a werewolf. And she would have been reforming, not dead, if she had been killed by it or divine intervention,” Grover rambled.

“Exactly. Now, hopefully Luna is ready. She is our best driver, occasionally going to official events for things like endurance racing, GT3 and NASCAR.” Percy explained.

“Huh. I guess we will be getting there fast,” Clarisse stated.

—-----------------

Downstairs, the trio met with Lycaon and Luna.

“Luna will get you to the DOA recording studios. However, she has a race the day after she needs to get to. Her husband will be in LA to pick you up and get you to New York in time, as long as you take less than 2 days in the underworld,” Lycaon explained.

“Ah, will Connor be back from his rally event soon then?” Percy asked.

“Yeah, his flight just landed, so he will get some sleep, then go to pick you up”, Luna answered as she headed to the garage.

“Let's go then, we'd best get to the underworld, " Clarisse stated

—-----------------------

Luna led them past her magenta McLaren P1 and to a similarly coloured MK2 Golf R32 GTI.

“Let's go. This is my street racer golf, and the only one of my cars that can fit us all,” Luna explained, getting in.

The trio all followed her in, and Percy got ready for a very fast drive. As soon as Luna was on the interstate, the speedometer didn't drop below 100mph until they reached LA.

“There you guys go. Good luck. Everyone is relying on you to prevent this war, so no pressure,” Luna joked before she drove off.

“That was a scary drive,” Grover stated

“Well, it can't be worse than the underworld,” Clarisse deadpanned as they looked at the entrance to DOA recording studios.

Chapter Text

“We are here. I have a plan for Charon. Let me do the talking?” Percy asked.

“Sure, as long as we survive”, Clarisse replied

“Hello, Sir Charon, we need access to the underworld, and unless you want an overabundance of souls waiting in here, and then for the great prophecy to turn against the gods, including your boss Hades, I would advise you to grant us passage. We can also pay you as well, but I think you need to hear the stakes first,” Percy threatened.

“Bold of you, boy. But you did make good points. Get in the lift and I'll get you into the underworld. Not that it will affect me much,” Charon agreed after thinking for a little bit.

When the trio got onto the lift, it became the boat across the Styx. After 10 minutes, Charon dropped them off.

“Now what do we do about Cerberus?” Grover asked.

“He’s a dog, right? Couldn't you talk to him, Grover?” Clarisse asked.

“I doubt he would listen,” Grover replied

“I'll try instead, then. After all, I speak dog,” Percy decided before shifting to his pitch black wolf form, easily reaching their hips with how big he was in wolf form now he had grown into it.

“hello cerberus.” Percy barked

“Who are you and what do you want?” cerberus growled

I'm Percy. And my friends and I need to talk to Hades. But I can also play with you a bit, I'm tougher than I look,” Percy yipped back.

“Why do you want Dad? He is stressed?” Cerberus whimpered with 3 headtilts

“I need to discuss the stress thing with him as I could potentially help sort at least some of it”, Percy howled quietly

“Play first as it's been a while, then I'll let you past” Cerberus barked happily

“Of course” Percy yipped back before going and messing surround with cerberus

“What just happened, Grover?” Clarisse asked, confused.

“Apparently, Percy reasoned with Cerberus, and now they are playing like dogs do?” Grover replied, confused.

—------------

After about an hour, Cerberus let them through.

“That was fun. I wanna visit him sometime,” Percy stated as he shifted back.

“Then let's hope your uncle likes you”, Clarisse joked.

“How come you knew Cerberus would listen to you?” Grover asked

“With a puppy like that, you need to be calm and assertive. You would have failed, as you were scared. I knew I would be safer, so I could use enough strength in my tone to keep him calm,” Percy explained while they trekked through asphodel.

“Say, Grover, what's going on with your backpack?” Percy asked after a while of walking, noticing it was moving

“I don't know,” Grover questioned as he took the backpack off.

“Open it up, Grover”, Clarisse ordered as Grover panicked.

Upon being opened, the flying shoes Luke gave them flew off towards Hades' palace. But as they neared the gates, they swerved.

“Should we see where that goes?” Clarisse asked

“NO”, Percy shouted, “that is the pit where those that burst into dust on death go to reform. The PIT”

“Ah. Shall we head to your uncle's then?” Clarisse swallowed as even she feared Tartarus

—------------

When they entered the palace, they were quickly escorted to Hades.

“You are brave to have come here. Speak now so I may decide your fate,” Hades boomed.

“Uncle Hades. We came here not due to mistrusting you, but to believing there were gaps in the story we were told about this theft, namely, how they were able to escape and why you were involved in the fighting. I asked my questions to Lord Dionysis, who offered to ask you the questions. I ask you humbly to help us understand the quest. For the prophecy did warn a god in the west had turned, so learning from you will help us know which one would betray you and Olympus,” Percy explained while bowing to his uncle.

“Yes, my nephew did ask about my helm. And yes, it was taken. Your logic is sound but suspicious. Tell me why I should trust you when you brought my brother's bolt with you,” Hades ordered coldly as the trio shared a look.

“Firstly, if you smite me, I will reform and be against Olympus. Secondly, in your realm, no soul can lie, unless that is a lie told to us. Thirdly, we did say we came to the underworld for answers. Fourth, a camper gave us winged shoes that tried to drag us into the pit. Finally, I swear on the Styx that everything I said so far is true to the best of my knowledge and that I did not steal the bolt or helm from you or Uncle Z,” Percy promised.

“You do speak true. So tell me how you have the bolt in your bag, son of my brother. And tell me why you would reform?” Hades questioned intently

“Lord Ares gave us the bag I currently wear, uncle. And did you not notice? I am a werewolf uncle. And so is my mother, whom you have claimed as a hostage,” Percy explained, getting more annoyed as he realised who betrayed the gods.

“Hmmmm. So my nephew is involved. Get my helm back from Ares, and I will release your mother to her home. Fail or betray me, and she will be sent to reform,” Hades bargained.

“Of course, Uncle. If I succeed, I ask for only one more thing.” Percy agreed

“What would you ask for?” Hades asked, genuinely intrigued

“Another chance to play with Cerberus. He is a good boy, and I enjoyed playing with him in my wolf form,” Percy explained.

“We shall see,” Hades compromised before sending the trio back up to the land of the living.

—--------------------

“That bastard,” Clarisse growled, “why would he betray Olympus?”

“He is your father, surely you don't think he would?” Grover asked.

“Clarisse. Hone your rage. Use it to keep Grover protected and any monsters dealt with. Your father is waiting for me. But remember. He is a war god. That level of war would speak to his domains”

“Fine, good luck, Percy. Cmon Grover, let's stay out of the line of fire,” Clarisse snapped before storming off.

Chapter Text

Having made sure Clarisse and Grover were a safe distance away, Percy headed onto the beach where Ares was waiting.

“You were supposed to die in the underworld,” Ares scoffed.

“Hello to you, too, cousin. Hand over uncle Hades’ helm, and I will attempt to make my other uncle see that you were not fully yourself when this all happened”, Percy bargained.

“Not gonna happen. This war will be the greatest in my time, and I will gain so much power in my domain,” Ares gloated.

“This wasn’t your idea. Where is the honour of Ares?” Percy questioned

“Look. I couldn’t be caught with the bolt. Better to let you get caught red-handed. That's the idea from the dreams,” Ares let slip.

“Ah. You have been controlled by your dreams. I guess I'll have to fight you for the helm then?” Percy sighed, resigned.

“Hah, you wish, punk,” Ares scoffed, sending a boar to gore Percy.

With a deft manoeuvre, Percy used his Olympian silver sword to decapitate the boar.

“Fight me yourself, Ares. Or are you the god of cowardice instead of courage?” Percy taunted

“Oh, you are so gonna become a grease spot. Classic or modern?” Ares growled.

“Classic. Bring it on,” Percy smirked as he held just the one sword, waiting for Ares to charge.

Ares rushed Percy with a cleaving strike, but Percy wasn’t there. The next few strikes were parried, and Ares was impressed at Percy's strength. Strike after strike and block after block from both, and Ares had pushed Percy far from the sea. Having pinned Percy against the edge of the beach, Ares tried to end the fight, knowing Percy couldn’t block the strike with just 1 sword and nowhere to go. Percy had noticed it too and smirked. As Ares' blow came, Percy uncapped Riptide, giving him a second sword, allowing him to block the strike, confusing Ares long enough to escape the trap.

“Interesting. Very interesting. Still not gonna save you, punk,” Ares taunted.

“Got me out of your trap, didn’t it?” Percy snarked

The duel quickly started back up, and it was clear Ares still had the advantage of thousands of years of fighting and a domain of war. After ten minutes, Ares struck Percy with a blow so hard that he went flying into a sand dune near Clarisse and Grover. While Percy was shaking off the hit, the mortal police turned up.

“Sir, drop the gun!” the sergeant ordered Ares.

“Begone, mortals, this does not concern you,” Ares bellowed before destroying the police cars in a massive explosion, while Clarisse gave Percy a pep talk.

“You are holding my father off, Percy. You need to get up and win,” Clarisse ordered while Ares was distracted.

“How Clarisse?” Percy asked as he stood up and stretched a little

“Use your advantages. Fight little wolf fight,” Clarisse teased.

With Clarisse’s advice in his mind, Percy got into a fighting stance before charging at Ares.

“Trying to entertain me?” Ares laughed at Percy's charge.

As Percy approached, he shifted to wolf form, and as he slid between Ares' legs, he bit him, not quite drawing blood but tipping the fight back to being even.

“Bite little wolf bite,” Clarisse cheered, “strike little wolf strike”

Feeling better with his friends' support, Percy started fighting harder, shifting forms and doing his level best to draw blood.

“You will now die, little wolf,” Ares growled. Percy saw red. He found it supportive when Clarisse called him little wolf, but from Ares, it was condescending and infuriating.

Percy charged at Ares again and slid between his legs in wolf form again, confusing Ares, who was somehow not expecting a repeat of an attack. As he slid out the other side, Percy shifted back and stabbed both his swords into Ares’ ankles, drawing blood and winning the fight.

“It is over, cousin. You have lost, and as such, you are to return Uncle Hades’ helm,” Percy ordered, swords pointed at Ares.

“You have made an enemy werewolf,” Ares growled.

“And you should honour the battle. You were enjoying it, and the loss should mean you found a worthy opponent, not a hated enemy,” Percy retorted

“Why, you little-” Ares began before getting cut off by a feeling of desolation.

“He won fair and square, Ares. And he is right. Your honour should mean you are proud of a good showing for your domains as a warrior of courage and honour,” Hades interjected, having been watching with the number of times his name had been called and knowing it was best to interject

“Fine.” Ares summoned Hades’ helm, passed it off, then flashed away.

“Thank you, nephew,” Hades acknowledged

“You are welcome, uncle. Now I need to get to New York. I have a ride near here. Thank you for intervening,” Percy replied respectfully as Grover and Clarisse ran over.

“That was epic,” Clarisse cheered.

“Thank you for the help, Clarisse. Your support helped me win this,” Percy smiled.

“It was terrifying but cool. But Clarisse, why did you call Percy little wolf?” Grover asked

“He is the youngest of the three of us, and it's ironic given how tall his wolf form is. And I think it helped him realise I still want to be his friend after he told us the truth,” Clarisse explained as the trio headed back into LA and quickly found a werewolf leaning on a blue and gold rally Subaru Impreza.

“Hey, pup, I got video of that whole fight. I'll show it to the pack when you get back. Now. I believe you need a lift to the Empire State Building?” the werewolf said

“Yes, we do. Are you connor?” Clarisse replied while Percy blushed from the praise and finally let the adrenaline crash start to hit

“Yes, I am. Percy up front with me, you two in the back,” Connor stated before starting a prayer, “lord hermes, please bless my drive so I do not crash or get speeding tickets. I need to get these campers to Olympus to save Western civilisation”

“All good, Connor?” Percy asked.

“I am now, let's get you to the most important delivery Hermes isn’t doing,” Connor joked as he started his drive in the most direct route physically possible from LA to New York.

Chapter Text

After 20 hours of high-risk, high-speed driving, the trio were in New York again, outside the Empire State Building.

“Well, this is where I will leave you for now. You are where you need to be, and I have to see if I'll be fined. I think I need a different number plate for the return drive if the toll booth I ignored recognises me,” Connor joked as the trio got out of the car.

“Thank you for the ride,” Clarisse said while Grover calmed down.

—--------------

Once everyone was settled, Percy stood up again.

“I will go up to the home of the gods alone. Grover, I doubt my uncle above us has forgiven you for Thalia and Clarisse. I need you to protect Grover if something turns up while you wait for me,” Percy ordered

“Fair enough. Up you go then,” Clarisse agreed, pushing Percy into the Empire State Building.

“Hello, door guard,” Percy said, looking around and checking for any mortals “I have rescued lord Zeus’ master bolt, and I wish to bring it to him. Could you let me in the lift?”

“Nice try, kiddo, I ain't stupid, there is no Zeus or master bolt.” The guard tried to deflect, thinking Percy was a silly kid

“Fine then,” Percy growled and opened the backpack, showing the bolt to the guard “Is this good enough proof, idiot?”

“Y y y yes, go on up,” the guard stammered as he gave the keycard up.

Percy quickly entered the empty lift and listened to the pina colada song for the 20-minute elevator ride.

—-----------------

When Percy arrived at Mount Olympus, he was shocked at how majestic it actually was. All the nymphs and minor deities watched as he walked to the great throne room, where he knocked on the door, waiting for an invitation.

“Enter,” a voice boomed, allowing Percy to enter the throne room. Inside, only 2 gods were waiting. Percy bowed to both, waiting to be addressed.

“Speak, boy”, Zeus ordered, annoyed.

“Of course, lord Zeus. I swear upon the river Styx that I never stole your bolt nor Hades' helm; however, I know who had hold of them until partway through the quest, and I have a fair idea of who might have been the thief and the intended recipient of the items, but I cannot offer proof. Ares did catch the thief when you sent him and his siblings to find it, but something influenced him and invaded his dreams to make him keep hold of it until he could pass it off to me. He also had Hades' helm from the thief, and I had to fight Ares to win it back for Hades.” Percy explained before going into more depth in the quest.

Once Percy’s explanation was complete, Poseidon and Zeus started arguing about who it was behind everything in a dialect older than ancient Greek. Percy recognised only one word, father, meaning the gods were debating if it was the titan Kronos behind the theft. Eventually, the argument was finished.

“You have done a service for Olympus boy,” Zeus sneered, “as such, I will let you live. Do not still be here when I return, or I will test my bolt on you”

“Yes, lord Zeus,” Percy agreed before Zeus teleported away. Leaving Percy alone with his father

“You have done very well, Perseus. I am proud to call you my son.” Poseidon reassured.

“Thank you, Father”

“I fear for what the future has in store for you, and I worry that you being a werewolf will only cause problems,” Poseidon apologised.

“It is ok, father, besides, you have a reputation as the father of monsters,” Percy replied

“I understand. Hades has returned your mother, and I dare say you impressed him. It is now time for you to return to your camp with your friends,” Poseidon explained before teleporting Percy, Clarisse, and Grover to the border of Camp Half-Blood.

Once they crossed the border, they were soon mobbed by the campers.

“YOU MADE IT BACK,” a camper cheered. However, some campers seemed annoyed.

“We did, and the war is called off,” Percy explained, before giving more details to the crowd.

“Thank you for explaining, Percy,” Chiron replied once the story was over “Now we can celebrate your survival”

—------------

That evening, the trio burnt their shrouds, while Grover was given his searcher's licence. Annabeth was both happy that they survived and saved the world, but also annoyed that she couldn’t go on the quest. Luke, however, was annoyed. His master’s plan was damaged, and Luke had to sort it out somehow.

—----------

A couple of days later, Annabeth approached Percy.

“I am not going to apologise for trying to go on the quest. But I have decided to listen to you and go home. It will allow me to test myself,” Annabeth explained, seeming to try to mend bridges.

“I understand. Like I said, I get why you wanted to go on a quest, but you were rude, and I needed someone I could trust. I shall see you next summer,” Percy replied, allowing a potential tentative friendship.

After Annabeth headed off, Luke caught up to Perc.y

“Take a walk into the woods with me?” Luke asked politely, clearly wanting a private conversation.

“Not far in, but ok.” Percy agreed warily, picking Riptide out of his pocket in case he needed it.

—-----------

After about ten minutes of walking, Luke stopped and glared at Percy.

“I'm fed up with being just another dusty trophy in this camp,” Luke started, trying to gain sympathy.

“You think anyone sees you like that?” Percy questioned

“I had my shot, I failed, I'm now just another sidenote,” Luke grumbled.

“You sound like you are leaving,” Percy accused

“Oh, I'm leaving. I brought you here to say goodbye,” Luke replied with a dangerous edge to his voice as he snapped his fingers “This is a pit scorpion. It is lethal within 60 seconds”

“Ah. You are the thief. I feared as much when your shoes I couldn’t use flew themselves into the pit.” Percy replied calmly as he seemed to fiddle with his pen absentmindedly.

“We are just pawns of the gods; they should have been overthrown thousands of years ago,” Luke ranted.

“Dude, they are our parents,” Percy retorted as water slowly restrained the scorpion, keeping it trapped on the floor.

“And that is supposed to make me love them?” Luke scoffed, “Their Western civilisation is a disease. It needs to be burnt and made into something more honest”

“You serve the titan lord,” Percy accused

“Of course. He promised me he would help me tear Olympus down brick by brick,” Luke boasted.

“Thalia would be disappointed. She gave her life to save you and Annabeth,” Percy argued as the scorpion was fully restrained.

“DONT SPEAK OF THALIA! THE GODS LET HER DIE!” Luke shouted, forgetting they were close enough to camp to be heard

“The gods saved her. They preserved her as a tree.” Percy retorted

“Good-bye, Percy. There is a new golden age coming. You won't be a part of it,” Luke scoffed before realising the scorpion was dead.

“Nice try,” Percy smirked.

“What would you rather do, fight me or save the camp?” Luke baited as he summoned another pit scorpion in the camp.

Percy quickly ran back to camp in time to see it sting Clarisse. As Luke escaped, Percy killed the scorpion and ran Clarisse to the infirmary, shouting for the healers and Chiron.