Disclaimer: I do not own Percy Jackson
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Emerald Library: Is so big you can google it
Writer's Block: wttJDs62Dy
LAST TIME:
Seeing them disappear into the distance Percy focused on the sky above as the lightning seemed to sense that he was ready. With that, it seemed to wind up as more and more lightning covered the sky. With all of the lightning in the sky, it was almost like a massive spider web in itself Percy began to worry a bit. Maybe he did bite off more than he could chew. He honestly didn't even know that the next level of human cultivation was called yet here he was heading right towards it.
"Well hopefully Nick and Annabeth are alright," He mumbled to himself when he suddenly heard an explosion and several screams from the resort. He turned to see a plum of smoke rise in the distance and then another that was closer to the docks. Yet the noise level seemed a bit too high if it was simply the two of them, if anything he had assumed something else happened. He would have to figure out later though if this island even survived this lighting blast coming his way.
"Anyway… bring it on! HIT ME WITH ALL YOU GOT MOTHERFUCKER!" Percy roared at the sky as black lightning exploded from his body and ripped apart the land around him as if threatening the sky. With that, the sky finally gave in and the first barrel-thick bolt of light dropped on top of him.
LINEBREAK:
THIRD PERSON POV:
BBBOOOOMMM!!
"AHHHHH!" Percy let out a roar as the lightning smashed down on him, however instead of an instant pain, the bolt continued to pour down on him for several seconds before finally letting up. Percy's body was left steaming as the ground around him glowed red hot, in a moment his aura started to flood outside his body as it took a surprisingly green shade. The many wounds on his body began to heal as blackened areas began to slowly grow smaller as new flesh took its spot as blistered areas peeled away like they were never there.
"Healing takes way too much energy!" Percy complained as his forehead was slowly drenched in sweat as he got rid of the worst of the wounds he had before finally stopping. Percy discovered this power after many training sessions with Thalassa. Though it worked incredibly well it consumed a terrifying amount of energy to heal large wounds. Nearly 10% of his reserves were gone in the time it took to get rid of all the black skin on his body. Looking back up at the storm clouds Percy couldn't help but reveal a grin.
"Hahaha! You have more strikes left in you, don't you? Don't let up yet bitch! Bring it!" Percy yelled as the sky rumbled in agreement and a bolt bigger than the last descended upon him. The sound alone seemed to eclipse all other sounds as the island shook because of it, the people far away had to cover their ears after the first left their ears ringing. Yet before the bolt could reach Percy black lightning gathered and shot up at it from where Percy stood. The two bolts of lightning merged and seemed to burn each other as the bolt finally hit Percy, the black lightning acting like an outer shell to deflect and burn what it could.
Essence from the sky's bolt burnt by the black lightning found its way into Percy as he let out more black lightning. Still, his body took damage as more black spots and blisters grew easily. After a few seconds, the bolt was finally done. Percy couldn't help but stumble a bit but quickly regained his footing as he gasped for air. The shaking ground around him was now almost molten except for the place he stood as it sizzled and seemed ready to melt any second.
Gasp
"Again!" Percy yelled as he faced the sky and let out a mighty roar once again as a 7-foot wide lightning bolt rained down on him and another massive boom shook the island. This time the ground could no longer stand the energy behind the bolt as it exploded outwards, ripping apart the crater Percy stood in, creating a huge dust cloud that expanded outwards. The whole island shook violently this time due to the impact as the chaos on it seemed to stop as the pirates and Circe's girls all watched in awe and fear.
"Ares is on our side men! Look! He plans to destroy this filthy place that entrapped us for decades! Grab the girls you can and get to the boats!" A disheveled man with a black beard in a pirate costume yelled at his other sailors as they all raised their swords and yelled in agreement. The girls escaping from them continued to scream and panic as some were easily captured and tied up while others put up a fight yet were defeated when multiple pirates ganged up on them.
"Filthy humanoid trash." A certain goddess of the moon whispered as her eyes radiated pure anger as she tossed a terrified Circe onto the ground. The minor goddess couldn't help but look up at Artemis as the moon goddess was sparking silver arcs of divine power. Yet she somehow didn't move a finger as her fists clenched together and shook in pure anger. Seeing this Circe was confused but then screams of the girls continued to ring in the air as she turned toward the docks where pirates began to load them up on some of the smaller vessels.
Yet in the distance a large wooden ship, that was once at the port, with the words Queen Ann's Revenge printed on the side was quickly sailing away. Though displeased the pirates could only continue capturing people as Circe felt helpless, the wound on her stomach contained so much impure energy that she simply couldn't move any of her divine power.
"Help them please, I beg of you Artemis. They are innocent girls, I may have not treated them right but they don't deserve this!" Circe cried out while turning to Artemis before pulling on her pants to try and get her attention. In a moment furious silver eyes tore away from the bolt of lightning that just finished striking the ground and towards the minor goddess. One glance was enough to make Circe freeze as the full weight of one of the Olympian gods descended on her.
"P-Please," Circe begged as her whole body shook Artemis glanced at the pirates and gritted her teeth in anger. Oh how she wanted to help them so badly, but she simply couldn't. She couldn't be running around and saving girls when Percy was on the brink of life and death. If he needed her help she would rush over instantly and save him, she needed to be ready for the worst. Yet in doing so she had to let the girls be captured, it was like being caught between a rock and a hard place. The man she loved or innocent maidens. Her mind was a mess but she continued to stay still as her fists tightened harder.
"Save them yourself, or have you forgotten all the training you had in the past after researching stuff for so long?" Artemis told her in a calm and deadly tone as Circe's face filled with anguish and regret while her stomach began to ache even more.
"I… I'm so useless." Circe cried as her body shook in anger and hate for herself. Her once brilliant power was almost gone now, sure she kept her status as a goddess but her fighting prowess was nearly erased. She truly had spent far too much studying magic and potions, she had simply never thought she would need to fight again. Yet it seems she was wrong, she had been crushed so easily by a demigod that it made her infuriated at not only him but herself.
BBBBBOOOOOOOOMMMMMMM!!!
Another crack of thunder shook the island causing everyone to stumble and fall as a 10-foot lightning bolt struck down even harder than before. Loose cliffs in the distance and frail houses collapsed as more destruction spread across the island. Circe watched in horror as her home fell apart, tears came even faster as she began to struggle to stand up. Artemis' eyes glanced her way as she did, finally with a bit of effort from the shaking island Circe was able to stand.
Gasp Gasp Gasp
"I must help them," Circe said in a pained voice as she took a few steps only for a hand to reach out and catch her. She tried to struggle free but didn't have the strength she turned to see Artemis holding her in place as the goddess didn't even turn her way.
"Why are you stopping me? Let me go!" Circe yelled but the grip on her shoulder tightened forcing the goddess to cry with pain as she was forced back to her knees. The minor goddess was at a loss for words as she felt angry emotions boil inside her and put Artemis in their path. She wanted nothing more than to kill her for stopping her yet the moon goddess didn't seem affected by the bloodlust in the least.
"While you were wallowing in self-hatred, help has arrived. Don't lift a finger and focus on your wounds. Also… don't put up a fight, it is the only way you will stay alive." With those simple words, Artemis let go of her shoulder and shot off into the distance leaving a stumped Circe who was still boiling with hatred.
"What?" She mumbled to herself when she suddenly saw a nearby warehouse door begin to light up. Eventually, the nearly 15-foot-tall sliding doors were changed into two towering pristine white granite doors before they began to slowly slide apart. Revealed inside was a pure white screen nobody could see through, just as it appeared people began marching out of the white screen in droves.
All of them were wearing armor and clothes of all different varieties and used a variety of weapons as well. Some wore full metal knight armor sets with sharp corners while wielding a huge claymore alone or a tower shield and mace combo. Nearly 30 fully decked down metal knights appeared before more started to come. They wore studded leather with small metal plates covering their vitals and bandanas with hoods to cover their faces. Their weapons of choice varied greatly from daggers, buckler sword combo, dual-wielding anything, and even a few who seemed to have maces or whips.
Altogether it was 100 men and women, each standing in uniform lines as if waiting for someone, their presence alone seemed to freeze all the chaos around them. Yet this group all had one outstanding feature that made anyone looking at them shiver in fright, all of their equipment was black in design with silver and golden threads and edges. But right over the heart of each person was a red vertical eye of Sauron that seemed to be made of real blood. Together the sight made any pirate and girl freeze in place as this group suddenly shifted as the knights all pounded their armor in sync.
Bang bang bang
It was like a war gong and with each bang it grew louder as the lines of people spread apart revealing a pathway until finally with one final bang it stopped. Even the lightning bolt in the distance was finally depleted as the ground stopped shaking and the sky quieted down. From the portal came one figure followed by 4 knights covered in pure blood armor with black edges and a black cape. Standing nearly 7 feet tall, each knight wielded a large black zweihänder on their back and a normal sword on each of them.
Circe's eyes widened drastically as she felt the aura radiate off those 4 knights, if the 4 of them worked together she was sure they would have no issue taking down a high-level immortal. Yet her eyes couldn't help but drift to the 5th figure standing before the 4 of them as all the 100 people bowed to the figurehead. Each of her steps seemed to command the presence of everyone around her, each time she passed a line of people they would stop bowing and then stand at attention.
She wore a very simple white robe with red threads on its seams and black ancient Greek designs on its sleeves and bottom. On her head, she also wore a white wimple that covered her hair and gave her a very official look. The woman finally made her way to the front. She looked around at the chaos around this place before setting eyes on the pirates.
"Save the girls and gather them here, they are not to be harmed! Gather the filth as well, the lord does not tolerate such crimes and they must be punished for their crimes! Now go and show diligence! This is your first true task as the Chaos Guards and I do not wish to be disappointed! For the blood of Chaos! Now go and fulfill your duty!"
"For the blood of Chaos!" They roared in sync as the people suddenly began to shoot off in different directions as they charged in towards the pirates who gave cries of fear in return. Seeing them doing their job correctly the woman gave a soft smile before turning her gaze to Circe. A bigger smile graced her lips. In a moment she quickly walked over with her 4 knights before stopping right before the goddess.
"Circe it has been a minute hasn't it, I hope you have been treating the Lord well." The woman in a warm tone as if greeting an old friend. Circe on the other hand could only feel shivers of fear run down her spine as the knights quickly boxed her as if preventing her from running. The girl on the other hand walked forward and before suddenly kneeling to the ground, her pure white gown was instantly dirtied by the muddy ground, yet she did not seem to care in the least.
"I- It's you." Circe stammered as Cammy continued to give her a brilliant smile while her one good eye sparkled happily before she reached out her hand to the goddess. Circe could only stare at the hand as if it were Hades' hand in silence as the aura of the 4 knights honed in on her while each gripped the handle of one of their 3 blades. In turn, Cammy furrowed her brow as she looked up at the knights as if chastising them. In a moment their aura receded and they loosened their grips before turning around as if to give the two some privacy.
"I apologize about them, they are very protective of me. So Circe… what will it be?" Cammy questioned her as Circe stared at the hand in silence for a bit longer as her hand tightened her aching wound.
"W- What is all of this? Who are you?" Circe found herself asking a question she didn't plan on as Cammy's smile continued to grow warmer. Soon her smile turned benevolent as if she wanted to clasp her hands together right there and pray.
"We are the blade that will serve our Lord to cut the rot from this world. We are the shelter to house all of those wrongfully punished by any gods regardless of pantheon. We are the sons and daughters of many but together we are one under creation. We have but one purpose and that is to help our Lord achieve his goals by any means necessary. We are the Church of Chaos and worship the Lord as the one true heir to all." She said as Circe's mind seemed to scramble itself under this information as her mouth fell open but no words were said. Seeing her reaction Cammy stared at her while the goddess collected herself.
"Circe, join us and the Church of Chaos. Follow the true path and in time your sins will be forgiven. Obtain a new life and build something greater than you ever wished for. We promise you that the world our lord will create will be full of new opportunities away from the iron rule of any god or goddess." Cammy once again spoke as Circe couldn't help but stare at the confident-looking young woman in front of her.
"Y- You are crazy," Circe mumbled as Cammy gave a soft laugh before nodding.
"Perhaps I am, but that does not change my faith in the lord. For he is the one true heir." Cammy said as Circe was at a loss for words. Everything about this girl sounded crazy to her and she simply wanted to flee from this place. Yet the pain in her stomach and the negative energy in her body reminded her of one thing. Percy was indeed so powerful, so much so that she couldn't even begin to imagine his future. Not to mention his connection with multiple primordials that she could never wrap her… head… around... wait a moment.
"True heir… what does that mean?" Circe slowly asked Cammy as the daughter of Aphrodite gave her a small grin that sent chills down the goddess's back.
"What do you think it means little minor goddess?" Cammy asked as Circe felt her mouth lose all of its moisture and her eyes trembled. She couldn't help but stare at the demigoddess as she felt trapped all of a sudden. Like if she misspoke her head would leave her shoulders in but a moment, her godly essence cast to the wind and bound to never reform. Seeing the look in Cammy's eye terrified her more than anything else in this world.
BBBBOOOOOOOOOMMMMMM!!!
Another bolt of lightning shook the world around them but this time the bolt met a figure halfway up in the sky as they let out a mighty roar that shook the world even more. Circe and Cammy couldn't help but look at the figure as two huge bone wings spread open from their back as they charged into the sky. The massive bolt didn't even hit the ground but solely focused and gathered around the figure as it flew higher and higher into the sky with each second. It didn't take a genius to figure out the figure was Percy as Circe felt an overwhelming sense of weakness at the sight.
Yet in the very last second before Percy penetrated the dark clouds above a change began to happen to his wings as bright golden feathers began to grow on them. Seeing such a sight Circe was at a loss of words as she felt the terrible power that bolt had, if it had been her she would have been gravely injured in a matter of moments. Yet Percy not only flew further into the storm but took the bolt dead on with all his might. With that, the bright light from the lightning gathered deep inside the stormcloud as it shined brilliantly through the dark clouds.
"Ahhh, the Lord, it is truly so magnificent! He faces challenge after challenge without holding back!" Cammy gushed as her eye shimmered in delight, she couldn't help but put her hands together in a prayer sigh. At this point, Circe could see that this girl wasn't just a devout believer but wholeheartedly worshiped Percy like he was a god. Almost like her believers back when Greece still existed, seeing such a thing Circe couldn't help but feel jealous of Percy. How long has it been since someone worshiped her like that?
"Cammy…" Circe spoke softly as Cammy quickly turned to the goddess with an embarrassed look on her face as if she was caught red-handed.
"I apologize, sometimes I can't help myself. Have you decided? Or perhaps figured something out?" Cammy asked with a smile as Circe couldn't help but furrow her brows a bit before sighing.
"If I refuse… will this be my last day here?" She asked in a calm tone as Cammy's face slowly softened into one as if looking at a sick child, seeing her expression Circe gave an even softer sigh than before.
"The rot in this world cannot remain, but it can save itself by being purified or healed. Our lord believes that if one understands their wrongdoings and repents then forgiveness can be given. Yet it is up to the rot to decide whether to change or be removed." Cammy said in a soft but firm tone as Circe felt her cut clench in pain and her emotions thrashed about inside her. She had two choices, to die or to change…
"Why do you even need me?" Circe asked in a frustrated tone as Cammy smiled lightly at her.
"Your study of magic rivals that of Hecate, you have even started to lose your divine energy because your focus on it was so strong. We plan to use your magic to aid us on our journey to better this world alongside the Lord. I assure you that your teachings will be put to good use and in the end, you will never have to bow your head unwillingly again. If you join us you will no longer be Circe the minor goddess of magic that many look down on, instead, you will take on a new identity." Cammy said as Circe inwardly flinched a bit.
Cammy had hit a nail right on the head, because of her dropping power many other minor gods were starting to look down on her. Over the last 300 years, it had gotten so bad she simply gave up meeting with other gods, after Cammy pointed it out Circe felt a spark of deep hatred for the other gods and goddesses that made fun of her. Yet hearing Cammy request her to teach them the magic she had worked tirelessly to pursue made something click inside her.
"What about the girls?" Circe asked in a worried voice as Cammy shook her head.
"They will face choices that you have no say in. But their lives are not in danger so long as they are not part of the rot." Those simple words took a weight off Circe's shoulders as the goddess let out a small sigh before gripping at her wound tighter.
"Fine… I will join you. I simply hope that I can continue my research while in peace. Also, I assume there is an oath or something I must take as well." Circe said with a slightly regretful tone as Cammy smiled in delight as she happily clapped her hands together. As this happened the 4 red knights turned their faces back to Circe as Cammy scooted closer to the somewhat depressed goddess.
"I knew you would join us in the end sister, let me be the first to welcome you to the Church of Chaos. Any questions you have will be answered after you make your oath, for now, if you will excuse me." Cammy said as she reached around to a small pouch on her side before swiftly pulling out something metal. Before Circe could even more Cammy had reached forward and bound both her hands in golden cuffs with chains between them as Circe was left speechless.
"W- What is this?" Circe asked in a panicked tone as she struggled against the chains, yet as she did the chains glowed as her aura and divinity were sealed away leaving her feeling mortal. The goddess couldn't help but panic more as the pain from her wounds flared causing her to collapse to the ground from her sitting position.
"Don't worry Circe your life is not in danger, this is simply but a precaution we must take. Until you make your oath and swear on your essence, you will have to wear these or our home will reject you. 4th Blade, take her into the gate and to the clinic to get her wounds treated, after this is all over I will personally handle the oath ceremony." Cammy said in a firm tone as one of the 4 knights walked forward and easily picked up the Goddess as she slightly struggled in their grasp.
"C- Cammy wait a minute!" Circe called out in a panicked tone but her voice fell on deaf ears as Cammy and the other three guards walked away from the struggling goddess. Her eyes filled with worry as she felt regret about her choice all of a sudden, unable to even budge from the knight's grip she simply gave up on her physical struggle as her mind raced. Unknown to her Cammy was keeping on her for a moment before turning away.
"Make sure she behaves properly and let me know if you need assistance in her repentance. She must recognize her crimes and once she does we can make her a true part of the Chaos Guards." Cammy said as the 3 knights gave a nod while remaining silent. A moment later one knight glanced at Cammy as they seemed to notice a look on her face.
"What is your plan priestess?" They asked as Cammy glanced at them before a smile slowly graced her lips.
"I was just thinking that after her repentance is complete then she might be a good fit for a commander's position, she could lead our research division with her knowledge. It would save us decades of work and also allow us to give a fantastic foundation for future research. Hmm… prepare her a laboratory in the nest immediately and assign her several attendants as well as 10 apprentices. If she requests more, approve it as long as it is within our budget." Cammy rattled off orders as the knight hesitantly nodded after a minute.
"Are you sure this is not too much right off the bat priestess?" Another knight suddenly asked as Cammy glanced their way the knight quickly bowered their head as if they had spoken out of line.
"I believe if we do this then it will help us gain her trust in the long run and make things easier as they progress. That goddess has lost the respect of all other gods for who knows how many years, she needs someone to respect and trust her. We will provide that trust and respect as time progresses and our bonds grow. Hopefully in the end Circe will see the truth of it all and fully accept it. But for now, provide her with the essentials she needs and let time work its magic. If worst does happen… there is another goddess of magic is there not?"
PERCY POV:
Everything hurt so much I didn't know what else to feel besides pain, still, my body held its own against the bolts but each time my injuries continued to worsen. Even through the pain I could feel the bolts tempering my body significantly with each strike, nothing was spared as even my organs and bones were tempered. Nearly ¾ of the dead and burnt-away skin on my body was full of impurities that were pushed out, I was sure it was good for the body but it still hurt like fucking hell.
In the end, I was forced to completely replace the dead and burnt flesh with my healing skill even when the bolts were striking me so my body wouldn't give out. After the 3rd bolt it was then I saw the devastation it brought to the island, I knew instantly I couldn't remain on the island unless I wanted it destroyed. My only choices were the sea or the sky, I knew the sea was not an option since this was still the sea of monsters and I could tell it had it out for me. The sky on the other hand was being controlled by the tribulation, no entities besides itself could control it now.
Then came the 4th bolt, before it could land I met it in the sky. The pain was so intense I nearly stopped flapping my wings. But with grit and will alone I pushed through the pain as my body was tempered and burned alive as I flew higher into the storm. At that moment I felt something begin to change in me as I climbed higher almost as if my wings even began to tingle. I didn't know what it was for sure but the lightning around me seemed to grow less painful as the tempering increased.
When I broke the storm clouds as I entered a world of lightning and rain, it was almost like the storm had intensified several times over. Yet the bolt that was tempering came from far above as I continued to fly upwards. My mind was set on one thing as I continued to fly higher and higher, the 4th bolt eventually came to an end as I continued to heal my body. My reserves of aura continually fell when I noticed the decrease begin to slow before reaching a point where it began to increase even while I healed myself.
I simply couldn't tell why my aura was increasing, it was then the tingle on my wings grew more and more before noticing the storm below began to swirl up after me. Even small lightning strikes began to follow, yet I didn't have time to figure out the reason as I felt pressure from above. The 5th bolt finally began to descend upon me as I let out a roar.
BBBBBBBOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMM!!!!!!
After the 5th bolt fell the 6th bolt, the nearly 15 ft wide bolt slammed into me moments after the 5th ended, yet as I flew higher my aura continued to replenish even while I healed myself. More pollutants were pushed out from me from parts deeper than ever before as more tempering of my body took place, even dirty energy was removed.
BBBBBBBBBOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMM!!!!!!!
After the 6th came the 7th.
BBBBBBBBBOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMM!!!!!!!!
Then came the 8th
BBBBBBBBBOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMM!!!!!!!!
Finally, the 9th and final bolt descended on me.
BBBBBBBBBOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMM!!!!!!!!!!!
The pain was so intense my mind blanked as the 9th and final bolt slammed into me, nearly half my body blistered in a moment as I felt several bones crack. Yet I managed to hold on as my healing was pushed to the limit. My aura drained so fast that even the extra energy I was taking in wasn't able to keep up. My bones mended but more cracks formed as the final bits and pieces of impurities escaped the cracks. Even my skull was not spared as I gritted my teeth as the most intense pain I had ever felt tore through my body.
Even my wings seemed to fall victim to cracking as the tingle in them changed to sharp pains as I finally let out a roar of pain. The seconds passed by slowly as my skin began to turn black in places before healing and reverting to fresh skin. I was sure if people saw me they would vomit in disgust as my body transformed from nearly half dead to alive several dozen times over. In the end, the very last tiny amounts of impurities were pushed out and turned to nothing as my impure energy did the same.
At that moment the 9th bolt finally finished coming down but a cloud of pure electricity surrounded me as it lingered around my body, tempering small things here and there as my aura reserves finally hit the bottom. I was left exhausted as my wings were too tired to even flap as I began to continue soaring upwards into the sky due to my velocity. With the remnant of the healing energy in my body, I could feel the cracks in all my bones quietly finish healing as I finally reached the peak of my flight.
At that moment I felt exhaustion wash over me. A smile grazed my lip as I saw the storm above disperse revealing a beautiful night sky. There were sparkling stars as far as my eyes could see and a brilliant crescent moon carefully positioned in the sky. On the very edge of the night sky, there was also a setting sun that painted part of it a brilliant array of orange colors. I couldn't help but simply stare at the scene as I slowly began to fall back down to earth, I wasn't sure how high I managed to get but I knew I had a bit before I was in danger.
It was then I noticed my wings were covered with an array of long beautiful golden feathers that started at the top of each wing transitioning to gray ones that made up the bottom. Each feather had a distinct baby blue spine to it, making each wing a wonderful sight to behold. I wasn't sure what to feel seeing the new set of wings that had managed to grow without my knowledge as the feathers began to disperse.
The golden feathers turned into sparks of lightning while the gray ones seemed to turn into small batches of condensed storm clouds and finally, the sliver of blue seemed to turn into a ray of sunshine as all things returned to the sky. In the end, I was left with simple bone wings once again, that somehow looked more robust than ever. I simply couldn't help but allow the wind to rip by me as my body tried to regain some of its strength.
"This isn't good." I couldn't mumble to myself as I continued to fall, my strength was nowhere to be found and I could feel my mind trying to slip into slumber as I forced myself to stay awake. As my struggle continued to even stay awake I found my situation growing more dire, thankfully a familiar presence quickly approached me, and before I knew my fall was slowed down with magic and I gently fell into their arms.
"You big… dummy." Her first words seemed ready to cut me into pieces but that violent front fell apart as a tender and caring 'dummy' left her mouth.
"Thanks for saving me Moonbeam," I said with a grin as I met the yellowy silver eyes of the goddess of the hunt. Her expression was one of anger and worry as her arms tightened around me.
"You best thank me, you would have crashed into the ground if it hadn't been for me," Artemis said with a loud huff at the end. I chuckled lightly as the two of us floated far up in the sky in silence. Artemis seemed to let her worry slowly disperse as I could feel her slowly pouring her aura into me to get me back to safe levels.
"Told you I would be done in an hour. Also, check it, no injuries." I said with a grin as I managed to gain the strength to move my arms as I motioned to myself, I then quickly realized that Artemis wasn't her normal height. Instead, she had to take her 10-foot-tall form so she could hold me properly. Wait… am I being princess-carried by a very tall and stunningly beautiful goddess? Looks like I can cross that off my bucket list.
"Don't make me drop you, because I will." Artemis threatened me before beginning to fly away from Circe's island and towards the sea.
"I feel like that would defeat the point of you catching me." I couldn't help but say as Artemis glanced down at me, her eyes sizzling with anger as I quickly decided to shut up. It didn't take a genius to tell she was very angry at me for putting my life in so much danger just a bit ago. Even I wasn't sure I could have made it without the help of my storm-absorbing wings. For now let's keep quiet, at least until I'm back on something solid.
Like this, we continued to fly in silence as Artemis led the way until we finally reached a wooden ship that was heading deeper into the sea of monsters. After a quick scan of the upper deck to find nobody on it Artemis quietly landed on the ship. A moment later I found myself sitting on the ground as the towering goddess took her normal adult form. Feeling the ground beneath me I couldn't help but let out a sigh of relief, yet before I could even move I was tackled to the ground while wrapped up in a fierce bear hug.
Artemis didn't waste a second as her body lay against mine while her face was pressed against the top of my chest. I then felt her body start to tremble against mine a moment later as her arms tightened even more so. Her heartbeat quickened as her emotions grew unsteady and then hot tears started to drip onto my skin as Artemis began to gently sniffle. Seeing Artemis show such a weak side to me made my heart twist, I knew this was my fault she was like this. She must have seen me inside the bolts as I was burned alive and then healed, I could only imagine what she must have felt.
"I'm sorry I worried you love," I whispered as I gently hugged the trembling goddess back and I pulled her tight against me. Her body seemed so small in my arms as her sniffles grew more frequent along with the hot tears. I simply continued to hold her while gently rubbing her back as I stared up at the sky as the moon hid behind a lingering stray cloud.
"Are you sure you're okay?" Artemis asked me in a quiet voice between a few sniffles.
"I'm fine, I swear on my name that I am fine. In fact… my body feels a lot more comfortable now." I told her in a soft voice while reaching up and petting her soft head of hair. A moment later Artemis shook her head back and forth a few times before looking up at me as I saw two teary silver eyes staring at me.
"I'm not talking about your body, I can tell it is fine. I'm talking about you Percy. What I witnessed in that lightning… It looked so painful for you. I'm worried about your mind." Artemis said as her expression made it seem like she was about to let out a flood of tears while crying I couldn't help but slowly sit up. Even with the extreme soreness present I still managed to maneuver Artemis to sit sideways in my lap as the goddess clung to me and stared at me.
"I… I don't know if I can forget such pain, it did hurt. A lot. It was the most painful thing I had ever experienced. It hurt so much that I wanted to simply give up and let it consume me. But I knew I couldn't fall there. I couldn't do that to those who love me, care about me, or those who rely on me to show them the way. I still needed to move forward and conquer this challenge before me, so I did. I guess this tribulation wasn't just physical but a mental one as well, what a mysterious thing." I quietly explained to Artemis as I reached up and gently wiped the tears from her eyes as she sniffled a bit.
"So… you're okay?" Artemis asked again as I gave a soft nod and a smile graced my lips before I pursed them together a bit.
"Well… I might need more hugs and cuddles to help out a bit." I said as Artemis couldn't help but reveal a small smile as one of her hands lightly smacked my chest. After that, Artemis simply laid her head against my chest with one ear against it as she closed her eyes and calmed her breathing. The quiet thumping of my heart seemed to be enough to calm her down as I felt my worries melt away. At least most of them, I kinda felt the need to make it up to Artemis after having her go through something so traumatic.
"Percy… I love you." Artemis whispered as my heart quicked for a bit. I saw Artemis give a small smile.
"I love you too Artemis, more than you ever know," I said before planting a kiss on her soft hair and pulling her closer. I could feel her melt into my embrace as her heart raced for a second. The both of us then enjoyed the moment as our bodies shared one another's heat and our heartbeats synced.
"Can I ask you to do something?" She asked quietly as I nodded along, taking this for a yes she continued to speak.
"Can you please… kiss me?" Artemis asked me in the tiniest voice before slowly tilting her gaze up to meet mine. I was only able to see her two embarrassed eyes as I felt her heartbeat begin to quicken and her body began to shuffle in my lap. Such a sight was enough to make my heart nearly jump out of my chest as I stared at the most adorable goddess in the world. I simply couldn't hold myself back as I complied with my goddess' wishes.
Using one of my hands I slowly reached up to Artemis' chin and tilted her head upward as I was met with a very shy face that was covered with a golden blush. I couldn't help but stare down at Artemis and truly appreciate her wild and adventurous beauty that stunned many before. Her auburn hair that cascaded like copper only made her even more beautiful in the starlight as I took in one last look before leaning in and sealing her soft lips with my own.
The scent of a lush forest and berries overwhelmed me as Artemis' whole body shook the moment our lips touched. Her lips were as soft as velvet and I simply wanted to kiss her lips forever, after a few moments we eased into the kiss more and more. Soon I was able to start slowly moving my lips as Artemis leaned into each soft kiss as we moved. Our rhythm was slow and tame as we poured out love into our first kiss with one another.
I could feel our hearts mingling as our pulses merged and our connection through the river of love exploded. Just like every other kiss with the others, it was not simply physical but spiritual in a sense as we enjoyed each other's lips and love. At one point I even pulled away for a moment only for Artemis to give chase and seal my lips as she peppered them with small and sweet kisses. I couldn't help but giggle at her actions as she did the same.
"So how was your first kiss with a man?" I couldn't help but ask as Artemis gave me a certain look that said 'hush you' as I grinned.
"Your lips are a bit rougher than Zoe's and Hera's." She suddenly said with a sly glance as I rolled my eyes. She didn't have to say it but then again… she was right, Zoe's lips were very soft.
"I think I like it though, your lips taste like mint almost." She added on after giving me a moment to think as I pursed my lips only for her to lean up and give me another peck with a small giggle. Seemed that Artemis had a bit of minx in her.
"Mint? Hmmm, here I'll let you make sure." I said as I leaned in again and sealed Artemis' begging lips once again the goddess squirmed in my lap as our connection continued to grow.
"Mmmm." The goddess gave a light mewl of happiness through the kiss as I pushed a bit further on the kiss making it a bit rougher but nothing that involved tongue or biting. Though I was sure Zoe and Hera did things already I didn't mind, I loved them all, even if I was feeling a bit jealous, but nothing time wouldn't make up for though.
"Hmm… all I'm tasting is berries." I said after releasing the lightly gasping and golden-cheeked goddess as she put on a very embarrassed look. After such a rough kiss with a man, she was a bit overstimulated as she finally turned her head away and then lightly smacked my chest. I couldn't help but hum a small tune as I reached up and held Artemis' hand as the goddess rested hers in mine while intertwining our fingers.
"I love you," I said at the same time I squeezed her hand three times, without a beat Artemis returned the three squeezes as I couldn't help but give a giddy smile. After so long I was finally able to kiss my moon goddess, her lips were so sweet I couldn't believe it. While in my giddiness I couldn't help but turn my gaze to the sky to see the moon finally showing brilliantly over the open ocean.
"So… when do we tell the others? I'm sure Zoe and Hestia will be more than just excited." I couldn't help but ask as Artemis turned my way with her still golden cheeks, a moment later I was given another kiss then right after the goddess stood up, leaving me to my lonesome on the deck. She gave me a wonderfully loving toothy smile that made her beauty truly shine, her glow matching the moon behind her as she gave a few twirls of joy.
"We will tell them after the quest. Until then, your lips are mine and mine alone." She said with a smile as I blinked in surprise at this new happy and super affectionate Artemis before me.
"What?" She questioned my stare as I shook my head fast.
"N- Nothing, I was just surprised… I simply haven't seen this side of you before. If each of our kisses ends up with you like this I think I found my second reason to never stop kissing you." I said with complete confidence as Artemis' face instantly turned completely golden as an extremely shy look took over her face. There is the equally adorable and shy Artemis I knew.
"S- Shut up you! You and your sly words! Hmph! I am going to go hide and observe again, Nick and Annabeth are waking up due to our commotion. So you need to put on some clothes." She quickly went back into a semi-serious work mode before disappearing from my sight as I raised an eyebrow.
I then looked down to find that I was currently in some cargo shorts that I hadn't been previously wearing and no underwear. It took me a moment of confusion before I realized it all. My shirt, which was my magical hoodie in disguise, was now my cargo shorts. It seems that all my clothes burned off in the tribulation and my magical clothing decided to save me some dignity and change into cargo shorts. This begged the question… did Artemis see me naked in the storm or was the transformation faster?
"Yeah… I probably should."
LINEBREAK:
THIRD PERSON POV:
"So you were turned into a guinea pig?" Percy questioned with a raised eyebrow as Nick nodded his head several times while chewing on some food. After a big swallow, the son of Poseidon gave a sorrowful look as if he had just been through the worst of it. His sea-green eyes turned to Percy as they seemed full of grievances.
"It was awful! I was also trapped with some of the meanest-looking guinea pigs I have ever seen! If there was a guinea pig fight club then they were running it! I was worried for my life!" He bellowed in sorrow before stuffing his face full of spaghetti once again as if to eat his feelings away. On the other hand, Percy was busy trying to hold back his laughter at the comical sight.
"Nick eat slower or you are going to choke." Annabeth snapped at the boy as Nick seemed to shrink under her glowing gray eyes and did as he was told. With a small huff, Annabeth turned back to her food as she poked at it yet never ate any of it.
"Not to your liking? It's an official Hestia recipe I should say." Percy said as Annabeth glanced up at him as the demi-primordial ate in a very similar way to Nick did. Both seemingly defending their plate as if someone was going to swipe it away from them.
"Sorry, I just have a lot on my mind. All those girls on that island… I'm worried about them since all the pirates were let out because of me." Annabeth said with a sigh as Percy froze, he had no clue what she was talking about.
'It's fine, I have taken care of it already.' Just as his thoughts began to race Artemis' voice echoed in his head as he let out an inward sigh of relief.
'Thank you love.' He replied as a happy hum was all he got back from the goddess.
"They were taken care of, no need to worry. Same with Circe." Percy finally responded to Annabeth as the demigoddess seemed to brighten instantly. With that, she finally decided to eat and with the first bite, her eyes lit up with splendor as she quickly finished three more before letting out a sigh of happiness.
"This is super good. Did Hestia teach you herself?" She asked as Nick also gave Percy a curious glance as he couldn't help but chuckle.
"But of course, I have favors in high places, you know. If you are interested I might be able to convince her to give you two some tips and tricks of the cooking trade." Percy said with a grin as the two quickly nodded.
"Sounds like a plan, I'll give her a shout when we get done with the quest. In the meantime, I think I need a small coma. I'm exhausted." Percy couldn't help but yawn as the contagious action infected the other two as they let out one as well. It was nearly midnight and the two of them had been woken up from their sleep once already, they were ready for bed as well.
"Well I think I'm going to turn it in first, we have a busy day tomorrow. If my hunch is right we should be closer to our destination." Nick said after licking his plate clean as Annabeth and Percy gave him a look, with that Nick bid the two slow eaters farewell and went to one of the rooms. With that the lunch area grew quiet, the only sound of the two eating as the silence seemed to grow a bit awkward.
"So a guinea pig huh? Think he has a hankering for carrots now?" Percy asked again as Annabeth's lower lip quivered before a laugh escaped from her. Quickly covering her mouth and calming herself down Annabeth shot Percy a small glare as he grinned at her.
"You're going to make me choke on my spaghetti." She chastised him as Percy simply chuckled before setting down his fork since he had already cleaned his plate.
"So what's on your mind braids? There is something you wanted to talk about after Nick was gone, wasn't there?" Percy finally asked after Annabeth finally finished eating, she froze for a second upon hearing the question then looked at him as he could feel her beginning to grow restless.
"Well… can we go up on deck first?" Annabeth mumbled in a surprisingly quiet voice as Percy gave a nod. It only took the two a minute to reach the top deck as the warm sea breeze brushed against them. Annabeth then walked to the railing and enjoyed the breeze a bit more as Percy leaned against the closest mast.
"Percy… who are you?" Annabeth finally questioned him as Percy simply stared at the demigoddess in silence. After a bit Annabeth finally turned around and stared at him, her eyes demanding an answer as Percy gave a soft sigh.
"That is a bit difficult to answer." He didn't want to lie, he knew Annabeth was too smart for that. So he simply scooted around the truth as she pursed her lips together in frustration, seeing as she wasn't getting an answer she decided to ask another.
"How were you able to live through eating all those pills? . That lightning storm that I saw wasn't normal either, lightning that strong doesn't come from anywhere. It also didn't carry any aura of the gods, it was like nature itself was in charge. How are you even okay after that?" Annabeth questioned again as her stormy gray eyes spun with a million questions.
"What happened back there was beyond anything even I knew was possible. All that I know is that I am alive and safe. I'm not even injured." Percy told her with a shrug as Annabeth seemed to grow even more frustrated.
"Why are you hiding the truth?" She hissed at him as she stormed towards him and grabbed his arm, at that moment the two of them locked eyes and neither of them moved.
"Because you are simply not strong enough to know Annabeth," Percy said in a firm tone, Annabeth couldn't help but frown at his words as her eyes seemed to water a bit.
"Then when will I be strong enough to know?" She asked him in a strained voice while Percy couldn't help but stare at the young girl before him as she seemed to shake a bit with her own words.
"When I decide you are, my secrets are not something I can simply tell you Annabeth. They are far too important." He finally told her as Annabeth's grip on his arm tightened, her face scrunched up into anger as she finally seemed to snap.
"Why won't you just tell me? I can swear an oath on whatever you want!" Annabeth nearly screamed at Percy as he was slightly taken aback by her words. Her stormy gray eyes leaked tears out their sides as he felt his heart shake a bit. He had never seen Annabeth this upset before, no matter what the girl always seemed to keep a straight face unless she was using her emotions to trick others. Yet this… was not any trick.
"Annabeth… why do you even want to know so badly?" He couldn't help but ask as Annabeth gritted her teeth.
"Because… Because… I- I like you so much, you big dolt. I have for years, I simply can't get you out of my head. Each time I hear that you did something dangerous my heart drops and I can't sleep properly for a few days. Each time I see you my heart does cartwheels. I know you have Zoe and your kids! I know you are loved by someone else but I still can't help but feel these things! It's like my mind is tearing itself apart when I think of how I could hurt you if I tried to go after you."
"When your energy was in so much turmoil because of that medicine, I was so worried I could barely think straight! Even after escaping the island, my mind was in a haze wondering if you were okay. When you finally showed up I had to stop myself from jumping on you and crying. When you were cooking us dinner I cried in happiness in the bathroom. I- I- I-." Annabeth's tears were finally in full stream as she poured out all of her emotions. Her whole body trembled violently as she sucked in breaths of fresh air to combat her crying.
Seeing such a sight Percy couldn't help but pull the girl into a hug as she struggled against me for a moment only to give in as she began to ball against my shirt with all her might. In that moment he finally felt it, a connection that had been there but never presented itself to him that caused his heart to tingle in joy and love. It looked like Percy was right after all, Annabeth was one of his soulmates.
Titles: Tribulation Pass, First Impressions Matter, Moon's Love, & New Soulmate
Extra Title: Wow… Big Lady
A/N: DRAMA!!!! A kiss from our moon goddess and new soulmate! I am sure some of you already guessed it or knew but here is the true reveal! Annabeth is part of the Harem! Still, she is too young because Percy is 18 and she is still a teenager so time will need to pass for anything to happen. Kinda like Bianca who should be showing up again in the next 10 chapters or so with our editors fresh as hell OC Dex! Also next chapter I plan to go over the changes that Percy had done to him with the tribulation so I hope you are all stoked!
E/N: This motherfucker here got me with the Percy yawning. I read that and yawned after it. Sending curses your way Nuts! I'm kidding of course, but like. Holy hell that was insane! I loved every bit of this chapter. What about you all? Review review review you nerds! More coming your way! - Sidus.