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Chapter Text

flashback

Something yanked Annabeth backward and dragged her toward the pit. Percy lunged. He grabbed her arm, but the momentum carried him along as well. "Help them!" Haze l yelled. Annabeth glimpsed Nico hobbling in their direction, Hazel trying to disentangle her cavalry sword from the rope ladder. Their other friends were still focused on the statue, and Hazel's cry was lost in the general shouting and the rumbling of the cavern. Annabeth sobbed as she hit the edge of the pit.

Her legs went over the side. Too late, she realized what was happening: she was tangled in the spider silk.

She should have cut it away immediately. She had thought it was just a loose line, but with the entire floor covered in cobwebs, she hadn't noticed that one of the strands was wrapped around her foot—and the other end went straight into the pit. It was attached to something heavy down in the darkness, something that was pulling her in."No," Percy muttered, a light dawning in his eyes.

"My sword..."But he couldn't reach Riptide without letting go of Annabeth's arm, and Annabeth's strength was gone. She slipped over the edge. Percy fell with her. Her body slammed into something. She must have blacked out briefly from the pain. When she could see again, she realized that she'd fallen partway into the pit and was dangling over the void. Percy had managed to grab a ledge about fifteen feet below the top of the chasm. He was holding on with one hand, gripping Annabeth's wrist with the other, but the pull on her leg was much too strong. "No escape," said a voice in the darkness below." I go to Tartarus, and you will come too."

Annabeth wasn't sure if she actually heard Arachne's voice or if it was just in her mind. The pit shook. Percy was the only thing keeping her from falling. He was barely holding on to a ledge the size of a bookshelf. Nico leaned over the edge of the chasm, thrusting out his hand, but he was much too far away to help. Percy stared at him, a silent conversation passed between them.

Hazel was yelling for the others, but even if they heard her over all the chaos, they'd never make it in time. Annabeth's leg felt like it was pulling free of her body. Pain washed everything in red. The force of the Underworld tugged at her like dark gravity. She didn't have the strength to fight.

She knew she was too far down to be saved." Percy, let me go," she croaked. "You can't pull me up."His face was white with effort. She could see in his eyes that he knew it was hopeless." Never," he said. He looked up at Nico, fifteen feet above. "The other side, Nico! I'll see you there. Understand?"Nico's eyes widened. "But—" Lead them there!" Percy shouted. "Promise me!

"I—I will."

Below them, the voice laughed in the darkness. Percy tightened his grip on Annabeth's wrist. His face was gaunt, scraped, and bloody, his hair dusted with cobwebs, but when he locked eyes with her, she thought he had never looked more handsome." I'll come back to you," he promised.

"You're not getting away from me. Never again." Only then did she understand what would happen. She paled, looking desperately into his eyes. He looked at her sadly, tears brimming in his eyes. With the last of his strength, he flung Annabeth as high as he could. Annabeth's hand slipped out of his. " NO, YOU PROMISED!" She yelled, not bothering to stop the flowing tears.

Her other hand was grabbed by Nico, pulling her up to the ledge. " I'm sorry, Wise Girl." He said. Hazel sobbed. " Hazel, Nico, take care of her for me." He whispered. Annabeth could do nothing but look as Percy plunged into the murky darkness below.

Annabeth's body went numb. Her ears didn't register anything Nico was saying. Her arms barely felt a thing as she was lifted into the air by a giant eagle. The only thing going through her mind, was the look on Percy's face as he fell into the pit.

Annabeth faintly heard the rest of the crew scrambling to exit the cavern. A bone-crushing hug enveloped her.

Hazel and Piper embraced her as if she might slip away as well. In the warm arms of her friends, she broke down.

~~Present~~

Annabeth hadn't properly cleaned herself since Percy had fallen two weeks ago. Her blonde hair was dirty and matted, her eyes were sunken and there were bags underneath her eyes. She had grown extremely frail.

Annabeth honestly could not remember the last time she had a good night's sleep. She was sitting on her bed, looking at the coral necklace Percy had given her years ago. (For the sake of the plot, let's just say that the coral necklace is a corsola thing from Pokemon.) She stared at the swirling blue and pink, remembering all that they had been through. A tear escaped her, as her hand tightened around the necklace.

She continued silently sobbing until a tentative knock surprised her. She quickly wiped away the tears and tried to take a brave smile for whoever was wanting to see her. She opened her door, to see Leo standing there. " Oh he- hey Leo, what do you need?" She said, her voice cracking.

" Annabeth Chase, you need to eat." He said sternly. She gave a weak smile. Leo was obviously scared. "Fine." She sighed, shambling to the dining room. Jason gaped at her messy appearance but smiled nonetheless.

~~Meaaanwhile, the hole to Tartarus 5 days earlier~~

Percy had no idea how long he had been falling. It felt like years though. After letting go of the ledge, he desperately focused on Annabeth's face. Her smile, her stormy grey eyes, her princess curls, he didn't want to lose the one memory that kept him going. The tunnel opened up eventually, leading to a massive cavern larger than New York itself.

The cavern had thick red fog, huge spires, and firey chasms everywhere. Percy saw land beneath him. A fall with this impact would surely kill him. He opened his senses for nearby water. He felt a source almost directly underneath him. Something felt weird about it though, the liquid felt thicker somehow.

Percy felt the familiar tugging sensation in his gut, and the dark and murky water rose up to cushion him. As the water touched his feet, his concentration dissolved. Percy sank down into the freezing waters.

Useless!

Monster!

Murderer!

Pathetic

Coward

I never loved you.

You're the reason we died.

Bianca died because of you.

Murderer.

The voices echoed everywhere through the waters. Percy stopped swimming, his skin steamed, yet he felt like he was being sat on by a Hyperborean. He was in agony. If it wasn't the cold to kill him, it would definitely be the rest of this hellish place. " I'm sorry!" He yelled, crying. " I'm so sorry, it wasn't my fault!" The voices laughed.

But it was your fault, Percy.

You could have gone to Talos instead of me.

You could have waited till I was off the bridge before exploding it.

You could have convinced Clarisse.

You could have gotten me off, Princess Andromeda.

The voices screamed. Percy completely stopped, sinking to the bottom of the river. His skin burned, with fires hotter than St. Helens. "Please just kill me!" He begged no one. " Just let me leave the pain."

Percy's eyes closed, a peaceful look appearing on his face. His soul began to depart the mortal plane. Percy's eyes shot open, Annabeth's smiling face greeting him. " Come on Seaweed Brain." She exclaimed cheerily. The rest of the Seven stood behind her smiling. He resumed swimming. Swimming for Annabeth, swimming for his mom, swimming for the world. Without him the prophecy would be incomplete, leading to the rise of Gaea. He swam with all the love he held for everyone.

Shockwaves escaped Percy's body. The murky grey water cleared. The voices stopped. The water began to warm to a warm temperature. The river turned from misery and pain to everything he loved about the ocean.

Percy crawled to the shore, his skin steaming, his lips blue, and his hair blocking his vision.

Perseus Jackson. A feminine voice said behind him. He turned weakly, looking for the source of the voice.

A lady was rising out of the river. Her hair was blacker than the void, her skin paler than Nico. Her white dress giving her a spectral appearance. Her eyes looked much like shadows. She basically looked like a ghost.

" Oh great, is this what my life has come to?" Percy asked tiredly. The woman had a puzzled expression on her face. " I'm now in a cheap budget horror movie." He muttered. The lady smiled at that.

No Perseus, I am Lady Cocytus, the personification of the River Cocytus, The River of Lamentation.

"The river of what now? " Percy asked. His eyes were drooping.

Lady Cocytus moved closer to Percy, placing a finger on his forehead. Immediately, Percy's tiredness faded, he was much more energetic than he was earlier. He got up groggily, before bowing to her.

Cocytus waved her hand, dismissing the gesture.

Stop with the formalities, I dislike it. She said smirking. Percy smiled as well, before getting back on his feet. He looked at the river now, clean with sparkling blue water.

Thank you Perseus, My waters are cleaner than they have been in millennia, for that I am truly grateful. Percy looked at her, shocked. "How did I clean the river?" He asked confused.

Well, I am the river of Misery, and the love that you showed for your friends and family cleansed my waters. Though I do have a question, why is a demigod in Tartarus? She asked, curiosity laced through her voice.

" Uhh, I sort of fell." He said nervously. Cocytus let out a chuckle.

Fell into Tartarus, how?" She asked, a blank look on her face. Percy thought about how to explain it, he didn't have much time to explain.

" Well, my girlfriend was fighting Arachne, and a hole opened up sucking her in, I caught her and threw her up, but I fell instead. Now I have to go to the Doors of Death to help fulfill the prophecy and save my friends." He said quickly.

Cocytus nodded. The Doors of Death are in the heart of Tartarus, to get there will be no easy task. Percy's heart sank. Great. He thought, his destination was the New York of monsters.

Though I cannot help you directly, I shall give you some advice Perseus. Percy perked up, anything would help in this place.

Not a single son of Poseidon in the history of water users has been able to harness the powers of a river of the Underworld. It seems that water is not the only liquid that you can harness.

Percy's mind raced. " So does that mean I can control, like Oil, or Gatorade?" He questioned.

I suppose, but I mean stuff like poison, blood, even Ichor young one. She said. Percy's mind blanked. Percy grew fearful. The thought of being able to control someone's body scared him. He didn't tell Cocytus that though. He nodded in thanks. " Thanks, Cocytus."

Your welcome Perseus, but hurry along now, I sense Giants on your trail. Find the river of Fire. She said, before disappearing in a flash. Percy just sat there. The tiredness and fatigue of earlier returning. He felt sick, battered, and bruised. Percy stumbled to his feet, before falling again. Percy's hand landed in the river, reenergizing him. Percy got back up to his feet, practically sprinting away from the river. The water had given him energy, but Percy still felt like he had been stung by a Pit Scorpion, and then flayed alive. He needed to heal.

The Cocytus should have healed him, but he assumed it wasn't liquid enough to count. He ran as fast as he could, before hearing voices. Percy stopped, skidding across the ground. Judging by the number of voices, Percy guessed there was half a dozen, maybe more.

" Hurry, the quicker we get to the doors, the quicker I can get revenge on those demigods." A voice said. It sounded awfully familiar, much more human than he had heard monsters sound like. She sounded like one of those girls obsessed with makeup and stuff. He snapped his fingers with recognition. It was Kelli. The voices stopped. " I smell demigooood." One of the empousai sang.

Percy was crouched behind a boulder. He heard the empousai scruffling with their mismatched legs. Percy uncapped Riptide, which in hindsight, wasn't smart. The blade glowed, which alerted the empousai to his location. The clanking of their metal feet got louder as they got closer to their prey.

"Oh, my gods, Percy Jackson in Tartarus?" Kelli shouted in glee. She extended her claws. " What are you doing so far away from Blondie?" She jeered, trying to get a rise out of him. He recognized the other one, Tammi, Kelli's lackey. " I went for a scenic vacation," Percy said sarcastically.

The other empousa had heard the chatter, rushing over with glee. Percy looked around, searching for a route of escape, but there were none. Percy then resorted to Annabeth's favorite tactics: Trickery, talking, delay.

Kelli stalked closer, her eyes filled with absolute joy. She raked her claws across his chest, drawing blood. Her claws tore through the remains of his shirt, leaving strips of rag. Percy opened his mouth. " You guys have absolutely no idea what's going on in the mortal world do you?" He asked, trying to sound confident.

Kelli smiled. " The Earth Mother has told us all we need to know." She said, her lips pursed. " So you about the Romans?" Some of the empousai snarled. Percy guessed they had encountered the Romans and it had not gone well. " and guess what? Greeks and Romans have untied." The empousai shuffled nervously. " Lies!" Kelli snarled. " They could never cooperate." She said smugly.

Percy wordlessly showed them the tattoo on his forearm. " Boom! Do you know what happens when Greek and Romans unite? " They shook their heads nervously, while Kelli glared. "You get BAM!" He stomped his foot. The empousai nervously shuffled around. Kelli lunged, stabbing his right arm. Percy brought his sword down, turning her into gold dust.

She disintegrated, while the other empousai lunged for the slaughtering of their own. One of them lunged at his legs, claws extended. Percy leaped over her, stabbing his sword down. The sword pierced her back, killing her. Another empousai leaped over the dust, landing behind Percy and clawing his back. Percy twirled around, slashing the sword through her torso. There was a large gash running from his right arm to his hip.

The other empousai snarled.

Percy's heart sank, he'd be lucky to kill 3 of them in his weakened state. The other empousai closed in, now just toying with their prey. He opened his senses for water but sensed nothing close enough to help. There was a river of some sorts down the cliff but that was about it.

Tammi laughed. " Finally, after we feast on your flesh, I shall personally find Blondie and mount her head on my wall as a trophy!" She exclaimed cheerily

His eyes darkened, looking like a wild hurricane, ravaging everything in its path. Percy remembered something Poseidon had once told him. He was the son of the sea, there is water within him. Percy called on the water, calling on it with every ounce of his being, with his hope, and his loyalty. Something in him cracked. There was water in each of the empousai's bodies.

Percy clenched his hand, freezing them in place.

" Ohh, lookie here, the servants of Hecate, frozen and powerless." He purred. He used Riptide to cut each of their hands-off. They looked back at him with fearful eyes. Percy then moved on to their neck. Percy slowly brought the blade to Kelli's neck. He smiled, they were at his mercy now. They deserved to pay for what they did, they'd die painfully. The blade slowly went through her neck. Golden dust trickled out like sand in an hourglass.

He did that to the others, not pausing to look at their fearful faces. A second later, Percy collapsed on the ground. He had just killed them ruthlessly, he played with their blood. He deserved to rot where he was, no one, not even a monster deserved to die as they had. Jason and the others appeared before him this time. "Perce, make it out for us, you did what you had to, just please hurry, we miss you. Even Coach Hedge does, but he will refuse to admit it." Jason said before they disappeared as well.

Percy knew that if he didn't get up soon, he'd bleed out and die. Percy staggered to his feet, heading to the river he had sensed earlier. The terrain was barely suitable for travel, every step something almost killed him. The stalagmites were as sharp as his blade, the floor slick and slippery. Percy stumbled to a cliff, underneath the cliff, there was a river made entirely out of flames.

Percy looked down at the steep cliff with dread. According to Cocytus, this is what he needed to find. His stomach growled, echoing across the canyon. Percy found a ledge and started climbing down. His fingers were slick with his blood, his shoes weren't in a better state. The black rock jutted out of the side, a single slip and he'd be impaled. Cooooooooooooooooooookie . His stomach rumbled.

Percy slipped.

~~On Olympus.~~

Zeus paled. He had gotten a prayer from his son Jason, with distressing news. Percy had fallen into the pit. He had no idea how he was going to break the news to the rest of the Olympians. Aphrodite, Hephaestus, Poseidon, Hestia, and Apollo were fond of the boy. Poseidon would probably cause Hurricane Percy across the Atlantic.

Zeus thought about it for a moment, pondering his options, before flashing to the grand palace of Athena. The palace was almost an exact replica of the Taj Mahal, with gold swirls adjourning the dome. Zeus was wary about entering uninvited. The last time he had tried, he had ended up with a sword underneath the groin. He knocked lightly. " Athena, daughter?" She answered immediately, a look of confusion on her face.

" Father, I'm a bit busy right now, is it important?" Zeus nodded, before looking at the state of his daughter. Her hair was messy and matted, her eyes were sunken, and her clothes were streaked with grime. " Uhh, are you okay?" He asked worriedly. Zeus usually was cold, arrogant, selfish, and rude. But like most fathers, if something can change it, even if it's only temporary, is their children.

" Yes Father, come in." She said. Her room was even messier than she was. Zeus ignored this but continued to recap what Jason had told him.

" So, err, Daughter. Jason had prayed to me asking for help." He said. Athena's eyes widened, concern for her daughter visible. " What happened? Is Annabeth okay? Is it cause of my quest?" She asked quickly. " Annabeth recovered the statue with minor injuries, but after Arachne fell into the pit she dragged Annabeth with her a-" Athena stood up, a murderous look on her face. " WHAT ABOUT THAT WRETCHED SEA SPAWN? WHY DIDN'T HE SAVE HER?" She yelled. Zeus smirked, about to blow her mind. " Well, he caught her, threw her up, and fell into Tartarus alone."

The goddess of wisdom sat back down. " The sea spawn saved her?" She asked dumbly. " He fell into Tartarus," Zeus confirmed. " I must tell Poseidon." She said before flashing out. Zeus was dumbstruck. He had come to Athena for assistance on how to not tell Poseidon. Now she was going to tell him herself. Poseidon would obliterate him for not informing him first.

Zeus paced around Athena's palace, sweat dripping down faster than rain in a hurricane. A pool of sweat had taken refuge on his gigantic forehead, making it look like a portable mirror. Zeus sat down on Athena's massive sofa, putting his head in his hands. As he sat down, he heard the crunch of paper. He knew it wasn't his place to look, but his paranoia got the best of him.

It was noted on fading. Zeus's paranoia increased. Was his daughter plotting to fade him? He read the notes. "Amphitrite is fading, Poseidon in depression. Need to find a cure." Zeus stopped. Poseidon's wife was fading? Zeus was overcome with sympathy, even though he didn't love Hera as much as Poseidon did Amphitrite, he could imagine how he was feeling. ( I love Pothena as a ship so I'm adding minor Pothena, P)

Before he could continue with the snooping, Poseidon summoned the gods for a council. Zeus flashed into his throne, along with the rest of the council. Zeus turned to look at his brother and choked on air. Poseidon looked older than the age of 90, his eyes had completely lost all mirth or joy they had once held. Athena flashed in beside his throne, whispering something in his ear, before heading to her throne. The entire council gaped at the turn of events. Athena blushed at all the attention, before saying. " The Hero of Olympus is in Tartarus." She said grimly.

Poseidon shrunk further, sobbing into his hands. " That doesn't explain why you and Poseidon are friends now though," Ares says, completely disregarding Poseidon's feelings. " Amphitrite is fading," Poseidon said, his eyes like a swirling hurricane of despair and misery. The gods gasped. No one alive had lived through the fading of their loved one. Especially with his son in Tartarus, the risk of Poseidon fading is much higher.

Most of the time, the gods just lost their will to live.

A/N: Though Pothena will be in the story, Olympians will be uber bashed, from Zeus to Artemis, all of them. ( Apart from Apollo, Hephaestus and Hestia :P)

~~Now onto your favorite ship, The Argo II~~

It was another stormy day as they headed to Epirus. The sky was dark and the seas were shifty, yet there were no strains on the speed of the ship. Poseidon was extremely miserable. This got Jason thinking, had Percy's disappearance affected the lord of the Seas that much?

Jason felt a pang of jealousy, Percy was incredibly close to his godly parent. Something that most demigods envied and resented them for. Though Percy deserved it more than anyone, Jason couldn't fight the emotions back.

Jason was heading down to Annabeth's cabin to coax her out to eat again. They had been resorting to cheap tricks to get her out of the cabin, low blows such as. What good would Percy coming back be, if his beloved Wise Girl wasn't there to see it? She was still part mortal, she needed food. Annabeth had accepted that she had to eat, so she had taken a stockpile of food so she wouldn't have to leave. Leo had lost his humor, Frank and Hazel were less optimistic, and Nico, he wouldn't speak to anyone. Other than the occasional: " You daft idiot, we're going the wrong way!" Piper had supported Jason, and together, he felt like they could do anything.

They had encountered at least half the monster population in the last week, it was getting ridiculous. There was a roar from above, and Jason ran to Piper, leaving Annabeth.

They headed up to the deck, where they saw the largest pig offshore. Tusks larger than Jason himself, with grey leathery skin and maniacal red eyes. On top of the large boar, there was an archer, with an arrow pointed at Leo's forehead.

The hog roared again, and the arrow flew.

A/N That's it for this chapter, give me the criticism, please, and thanks

Chapter Text

Percy slipped.

His legs slid out from underneath him. He desperately tried grabbing onto a ledge, when a spike of pain went through his arm. He heard a Crack! that couldn't be good. He felt the steady trickle of blood down his arm.

Percy pitched forwards, eyes closed. He looked like Thanatos was in front of him, ready to claim his soul and bring it to the afterlife. The smell of sulfur clouded his senses, making him woozy. He yearned for Elysium, to see his friends again, apologize for all the deaths he had caused, and live in peace for the rest of eternity.

The weight of what he had to do sunk in. He had to venture through the depths of literal Hell, a place where demigods would scream and cry at the thought of even coming near it, Hades, the Gods were scared of Tartarus. He then had to travel to the Heart of Tartarus, where the monsters were probably pulling a Mr. D and partying, cutting the chains, getting in the elevator, and making it to the mortal world.

Perfect. Totally doable.
The sound of wind in his ears snapped him back in focus. He was falling, hundreds of feet towards the dark jagged ground of Tartarus. Wise Girl, I'm so so sorry. I'm sorry I was a bad boyfriend, I'm sorry I doomed the world, I'm sorry I couldn't keep my promise to you.

The wind whistled in his ears, as he came to terms with his death. Percy closed his eyes again, imagining Annabeth's face. her stormy grey eyes, her beautiful princess curls, and her smile. The smile that he had adored since he was 12.

An image pushed its way into the front of his mind. Annabeth's face when she realized he had died. Her eyes were red and puffy, her hair choppy and sad. The look in her eyes was broken. She was broken. She would be absolutely devastated. He couldn't do that to her. Not now. Not Ever.

He opened his eyes and opened his senses for water from Fire River. The ground grew closer, barely a hundred feet away. The water rose sluggishly, not nearly enough to cushion his fall. He panicked, pulling on something deeper, something primal.

The amount of feedback he felt was overwhelming, water in every inch around him. It was calling to him, begging to be used. The ground, the air, the river, all filled with water. Percy focused on the liquid he sensed near him, he imagined it compacting, rising up to cushion his fall. He imagined the water slowly bringing him down to the ground, where he could continue his journey.

However, that was not at all what happened. There was no visible liquid that Percy could see but his fall decreased, he slowed down, regaining his footing. He imagined himself standing, and the liquid rose to meet his command. He was upright now, slowly descending towards the ground. " No way, " He breathed, tiredness pushing back against the rational part of his brain.

He focused on the water again, lifting up, making him levitate. The liquid obeyed. He could fly, he could freaking fly! " Jason's gonna be so jealous." He smiled. Adrenaline was pumping through his veins, fueling his arms and legs. " She said to find the river of fire, I found the dang river of fire, now what am I supposed to do?" He muttered, to seemingly no one.

The first sign of madness, talking to yourself. A tiny voice said in his mind. Shut up. He told it. " I'm lost, perfect." He said.

Percy thought about how much he had seen so far, it looked like it was designed to specifically be deadly to immortals and mortals alike. Percy looked at his arms, promptly throwing up. There was nothing in his stomach, so all he wretched out was a bit of saliva and icky bits. A dribble of drool rolled down his chin, dangling off like a stuck bungee jumper.

Percy wiped his mouth with those disgusting hands. His entire arms were coated in bruises and blisters, turning it purple. His left arm was broken at his elbow. The skin was torn, and a bit of jagged white was sticking out, like a miniature mountain. Blood poured down, dripping onto the rough black sand. He moved his arm slightly, wincing at the pain he felt.

Percy coughed, wrenching once more. He spat out blood, which darkened the black sand, making it a damp sticky mess. He sucked in a breath and winced again. The air felt like poison, drying his lungs.

He took in another slow breath, and it felt like his lungs were being punctured with a ton of tiny needles.

His once perfect sneakers were now torn, showing 10 misshapen objects battered and bloody. Holy gods, those were his toes. He felt like puking again, but his stomach had been dried worse than a desert. If he could see himself, he'd guess his lips were blue and his skin was as pale as Nico di Angelo.

Perseus, Drink. A woman's voice whispered into my ear. It was vaguely familiar, but Percy's mind was clouded with pain. Every breath made it worse, sand dug into his kneecaps like glass, his arm burned with the pain of a broken-- scratch that, deformed bone. His mind was fuzzy.

Perseus! Hurry, drink the waters of the Phlegethon, that's the only way you can survive. The voice said urgently. Percy struggled towards the riverbank, ignoring the stabbing pains he felt in his, well, everywhere. He clawed at the sand, vaguely remembering Star Wars. Man, if this is how Anakin felt, I'm pitying him. The voice sighed. Of course, that's what you think when you are on the brink of death. The voice snapped him back to reality. He looked at the bubbly fire, sighing in resignation.

The pain increased, and Percy almost toppled into the river. Perseus! I'm trying to help you! Drink the water. NOW. The voice roared in his head. Percy quickly put his hands in the river, cupping them. The flames seeped in through his fingers. He weakly bought the fire up to his lips and drank. His hands were in agony. The Phlegethon seared his fingers, stripping away some of the flesh.

During all of that, the fire made its way down his throat. It tasted spicy. Flaming and sour. Percy vaguely remembered eating a ghost pepper for a dare, it tasted like that. Except a billion times worse. Percy choked, trying to swallow. It slowly slid down his throat, leaving a burning sensation.

He choked the liquid down and collapsed on the riverbed. The aftermath was surprisingly soothing. His lungs now felt semi-normal, instead of the burnt then freeze-dried combo. The air didn't hurt every breath, the pain in his legs decreased. He looked at his mangled fingers, which had slowly begun to heal. The flesh closed up, leaving small scars streaking up his palms and fingers.

He sighed, able to breathe freely now. The voice spoke again. He shakily got to his feet. Stumbling a few times. "Mysterious lady voice, who are you?" He asked, slowly articulating the words as if he might forget.

My dear Perseus, don't I sound familiar? She purred, which made her sound like she was gargling water. " You sound like Lady Cocytus, but you can't be here, she's too far away to speak to me." He said. Correct, young demigod, I am the Phlegethon, the river of fire.

He nodded. " Great, what advice do you have for me?" He asked, completely ignoring the rudeness of that statement.

My sister demanded I must help you, which at first glance I couldn't see why. He looked at the river, the steady streams of liquid fire heading into the depths of Tartarus.

"So are you going to fight me?" He asked tentatively. He was tired and had a broken arm, with no hope of fighting whatsoever. Think positive. He told himself.

The river chuckled a melodic yet malicious sound. No, my young hero. You have proven your worth, I have seen into your mind. Percy's eyes widened.

"I SMELL SEA SCUM!!" A voice roared near the top of the cliff. Polybotes is on your trail, you must hurry. I'm afraid I can't do much more. There is an altar of Hermès a mile north of here, you will find food and refuge there, do not linger in one place for long, they will sense you.

Percy almost cried. He'd be able to eat and rest. "Thank you Lady Phlegethon, thank you so very much ." He said, hoping to not sound sarcastic. He truly did appreciate it.

Hold it, Perseus, I have one more thing for you. My blessing. It shall let you summon the waters of the Phlegethon anywhere. My waters are deadly to monsters and heal demigods better than nectar and ambrosia.

A tendril of liquid fire snaked up around his ankles, before reaching his left shoulder. The fire snaked around his shoulder, searing his skin. Percy fell to his knees, tears dripping down his face. There was a deafening sound at the top of the cliff, like a million elephants jumped off a diving board. A moment later Polybotes voice echoed around the canyon. " MONSTERS, THE SEA SPAWN IS NEAR, WHICHEVER TEAM CAPTURES THE SEA SPAWN, WILL GET SAFE PASSAGE TO THE MORTAL REALM! " He thundered.

Percy's eyes widened, as he tried to get up to his feet. Perseus, get up! Find the Altar of Hermes. I must go! With that Percy felt her presence disappear. The trampling grew louder, as they cleaved a path down the cliff.

Percy turned shakily, to see Polybotes in all his green glory.

"Perseussssss Jackson." He exclaimed.

" I shall have fun disemboweling you." He said.

And the horde moved in.

~~Meanwhile at the Argo II~~

The arrow flew, embedding itself in the mast, just inches away from Annabeth's nose. A note was tied to the fletching, fluttering in the wind. The letter was sealed with a tuft of pig hair. Hazel's nose crinkled in disgust. Jason was confused, as far as he knew, there were no mythological figures that robbed people on boars.

He turned to Annabeth, who was unfurling the message. She sucked in a breath when she saw the contents. Jason's eyebrows shot up, as Annabeth fell to her knees sobbing. Jason picked up the message as Piper comforted her friend. Annabeth clenched the paper tightly as if it were her lifeline.

Piper rubbed her back soothingly. " It'll be okay, he'll make it out." She said, charmspeaking Annabeth. Annabeth nodded shakily, dropping the paper. Jason stared at the paper. The first thing he noticed. Percy, his shirt in tatters, a gash on his arm, but otherwise he looked okay, his eyes were burning with the wrath of a hurricane, and to be honest, it scared him

Jason had never seen his friend that angry, his face made it seem like he could single-handedly take down an entire army.

Daughter of Pluto

You have been summoned by the Dark Lady Hecate, her accomplice shall accompany you to her altar. Come alone, no weapons.

XOXOXOXOXOXO

- Anonymous.

He read the letter out loud. Leo and Frank let out a breath of relief. Hazel stared at the paper "What would Hecate want with me?" She asked nervously. Her face was set, but Jason could tell she was relieved to see Percy.

" I don't know, but it doesn't seem good," Leo said grimly. " But I mean, look at our Aquaman! He's kicking ass down there, we gotta do everything we can to get him back."

Annabeth smiled weakly at the humor. " I agree. It might not be safe, but it's our best bet. " Nico said, appearing out of seemingly nowhere. Jason jumped. He had forgotten Nico was even there. A tinge of guilt seeped into his thoughts. " I- " Annabeth started, before sucking in a breath. " I agree, but I don't think you just t- trust me, I'm desperate enough to do anything to get Percy back. " She whispered, staring at the ground dejectedly. Piper stared at her intently.

"No," Piper said, her voice firm and set. Annabeth looked up miserably. " No, Annabeth, you're the smartest one here, you have pulled us through each and every situation, we would have died hundreds of times if it weren't for you. We trust you, and we'd do anything to get Percy back. " She said.

Hazel nodded shakily, heading to the rope ladder. Nico was behind her, putting a hand on her shoulder. " You can do this, I believe in you, we all believe in you." Hazel smiled sweetly. " Thanks, Neeks." She said, before hurrying her way down the ladder. Nico's cheeks were red. He turned to the rest of the crew, with a dead stare on his face. " You will not, I repeat will not. Call me Neeks." He said in a deadly serious voice.

Jason shuddered, his wolf stare was scary. Scarier than Porphyrion, the only thing Jason could think of that would be scarier was Percy's wolf stare.

" Hey, Nico? Can I talk to you for a second?" He asked tentatively. He was freaking scared. He had heard rumors of Nico during the Battle of Manhattan. Nico scanned him, like a wolf looking for weakness. " Sure." He said curtly.

Jason herded him to a secluded part of the deck, one where no one would be able to eavesdrop. " Hey man, uh, I know you probably don't want to talk about it but are you okay? Tartarus is probably a horrific place, and you are one of us." He said softly.

Nico stared at him coldly. "I'm fine." He said, before disappearing into shadow.

~~Nowww back in Tartarus~~

Polybotes raised a hand, and the monsters roared, ready to charge.

Percy braced himself, carefully pulling Riptide out of his pocket, careful to not disturb his left hand. He uncapped it with his thumb and got into a fighting stance. Polybotes smiled. A disgusting thing, that twisted his already horrendous features into something that would haunt Aphrodite.

" Monsters... attack," Polybotes whispered, a sadistic grin plastered on his face now.

The monsters roared, and a squadron of hellhounds ran in, each a bit smaller than Cerberus, who was significantly larger than Mrs.O'Leary. Percy's heart panged, remembering his dog. Percy raised his sword in a deadly arc, vaporizing one.

The others leaped at him, with claws as long and sharp as daggers. A single claw from one of those and he'd be gone. Percy ducked, skidding across the ground with a thousand more bruises on his knees.

He stood up again, throwing Riptide at another. It pierced through its eyes and fell into the river with a plop! Percy sighed. Polybotes laughed. " I'm getting tired of this.

Polybotes stalked over before Percy's vision went black.

~~ One Tartarsauce day later~~

Percy's eyes fluttered open, and he winced with the bright lights blaring across his vision. He shook his head, groggily looking around the room. There were 20 - 30 sconces filled with bright white fire, illuminating every nook and cranny.

The room was black, but the fires overpowered it. It looked like miniature suns on each sconce. The room was massive, large enough for a giant to fit in it easily. Which is why - with his luck - that was exactly what happened.

Of course, the first living thing he sees when you regain consciousness is a giant in his undies, makes sense right?

Polybotes loomed over him, with massive Froot of the Looms that reminded him of the minotaur. In hindsight, Percy shouldn't have said anything, but he did anyway. " Ah, you have matching undies with the Minotaur, that's cuuute."

Polybotes snarled, and Percy knew he made a mistake. " You," Polybotes said.

"You, have been the insufferable pain in my ass for months! The reason I was cast back to Tartarus, and now that I have you where I want you, I will not let you go. " Polybotes exclaimed.

Percy was about to say something about overused villain lines but wisely kept shut. " I will torture you, every single day until you collapse. You shall be my personal entertainment, and the Earth Mother herself wishes to use your blood to resurrect herself. Be grateful Perseus, my kin is ruthless, be glad I captured you and not my brothers."

" I'm grateful." He grumbled, noticing the tone in his voice.

"Oh really?" Polybotes asked in a sickly sweet voice. " I didn't hear it properly, come again?" Percy gritted his teeth, refraining from insulting Polybotes again. " I'm grateful." He said again, louder. " Goooood," Polybotes said. He turned to leave, and Percy let out a sigh of release.

Polybotes stopped, and Percy's shoulders tensed. " Oh, silly me, I almost forgot something." He said. Polybotes turned, his eyes glinting in the dark. Polybotes pulled his fist back before it hit his nose with a sickening crunch! Blood poured down his nose, and Percy knew for sure his nose was broken.

Another punch, this time to the left side of his face. His head hit the walls so hard he saw lights. Percy shook his head groggily, trying to run to the other side of the room. Clink, clank. As he took a small step. Percy stared at his legs, which were shackled with void black chains.

" Be careful there, move too much and you'll be in so much pain the Styx will feel like a massage." Polybotes chuckled. Percy winced, before sinking to his knees, his vision shaky. " Oh no, no, no. No. We can't have you passing out on us can we?" Polybotes stalked over, producing a misshapen cup from seemingly nowhere. " Drink." Percy shook his head.

" Drink or I'll rip your jaw off and let it trickle down your throat while you claw at the floor in agony." His voice was soft yet deadly. Percy drank the contents of the cup. Percy recognized the disgustingly spicy water. The Phlegethon. Percy's stomach growled, and Polybotes laughed.

" Don't worry Perseus, you'll get something edible every day in Tartarus." Percy vaguely registered the in Tartarus but was fearful of the 'something edible' part. The water began to heal his wounds, easing the pain he felt in his face slightly. His arm was still as grotesque as ever, but it was healing, and that helped him a bit.

He was seriously wishing for a burger right now, but looking at his current situation, he'd be lucky to make it out alive, let alone eat beautiful junk food.

He was losing hope, and fast.

~~Meanwhile on Olympus~~

Over three thousand millennia, Hestia had thought she had felt everything, from the pinnacle of despair to the point where the world was brimming with hope and joy. But the emotions she felt from the crew of the Argo, and Percy Jackson was much worse than anything she had ever felt.

Percy was feeling hopeless, a feeling that shook her to the bone, she had never felt this level of despair and hopelessness since she was in their father's stomach. There was hopelessness all over the world, from demigods and mortals alike, and Hestia had grown accustomed to it, no matter how much she wanted it to change, the Ancient Laws forbade it. This hopelessness made her queasy, and sad. Percy was the epitome of hope since the Titan war, always keeping his spirits up for the sake of others, and to see the Hero of Olympus in this state gnawed at her soul.

However, the Argo II crew was filled with hope, positively radiated it. Their hope was the kind of hope that instilled joy in her, giving her hope for the fate of the world. This hope was pure, purer than anything she had ever felt before, pureness that made her dance around the hearth with glee.

Those emotions counteracted each other, the utter hopelessness from Percy put her in a funk and saddened her, while the undiluted hope made her brim with joy.

Hestia was seated at the hearth, using her powers to check the states of the crew every few days. " Hello, dear Hestia, I think I may have some news that would be of importance to you, " A voice drawled from behind her. ( BTW I've always imagined Hecate as Haggar from Voltron so yeah)

Hestia turned, to see a lady in about her forties with snow-white hair and black eyes. " Hecate, always a pleasure," Hestia said politely. Hecate nodded in recognition. " So what do you have to tell me?" She asked, curiosity lacing her voice.

" Well my dear, I have whereabouts on a young Perseus Jackson?" Hestia perked up, immediately shooting a great deal of blue fire into the sky. A signal for anyone who wanted news on Percy. A minute later Poseidon, Athena, Apollo, and Hades flashed into the room.

" Hestia!" Poseidon said, before rushing towards her and holding her shoulders. His sea-green eyes bored into her brown ones. " What happened, what news on Percy do you have?" He asked urgently, distress filling in his eyes.

" I don't have any news." She said. Poseidon looked confused. " Hecate here does." She says, a smile playing on her lips. Poseidon turned to Hecate, staring at her with the intensity of a merciless tsunami, killing everything in its path.

Hecate gulped. " A few empousai from Polybotes base down in Tartarus reported him being held hostage as Polybotes's personal, err, plaything. Poseidon's glare darkened a vicious glare that choked Hecate up.

Hecate's face looked pale and ashen like she was unable to breathe. Her face began turning purple, and Hestia stared at Poseidon, whose hand was upraised. Poseidon closed his hand into a fist, and Hecate began floating off the ground, clawing at her throat.

Hestia gasped. " How dare you!" He growled, clenching his fist tighter. Hecate's arms began to go limp, and Hestia ran to Poseidon. " Brother! Stop this." She exclaimed, distress on her face. "Why should I? Hecate controls all empousai, they call her the Dark Lady, she knows Percy is the reason her children are respected and why she gets recognition, yet she is doing nothing to help my son when he is in. . . That pit! The empousai won't help, which they would do with Hecate's command, and you expect me to just stop?" He asked incredulously. His rage was barely kept in check.

Hades came forwards. " Brother please, at least let us hear her out." He begged as Hecate's eyes drooped closed. Poseidon stared at Hecate's limp form for a second, before unclenching his fist. Athena and Apollo were wide-eyed. " What was that?" Apollo asked in awe and fear.

" A power I swore I wouldn't use unless the situation was dire," Poseidon said grimly. " I controlled the ichor inside her body, as Ichor is still part water. " He finished. Athena gasped. " So you can basically control anyone?" Athena asked, still wide-eyed.

" In theory, yes. However, I don't use the power much, too much and it may tempt me and I may lose control." He said, shuddering. Hades and Hestia both remembered the first time it happened.

Flashback

It was right after the first Titanomachy when the 6 children of Kronos were celebrating their victory over the titans. Poseidon, Hades, and Zeus were bickering over who got the better domain and who had better powers, ( Something that Hestia would grow very accustomed to over the next few millennia.)

Zeus got up from his chair, before snapping his fingers into an electric-blue toga, embroidered with gold and made out of the softest silk. Poseidon and Hades got up in turn, switching to sea-green and jet-black respectively.

" Brothers, the only way to test who's powers are grander, is to show a display of power, and let the girls decide on who's are better!" Zeus proclaimed, his blue eyes glinting mischievously. " I agree, 3 moves, the winner gets bragging rights for the next three millennia," Hades said, cracking a rare smile.

Hera and Demeter stared at the group with interest, while Hestia just sat in the back, chewing a mango. " Alright, brothers, let's see it. " Hera said excitedly. " Nothing exciting ever happens now." She grumbled.

" Do youngest to oldest, I want to see what our brother Zeus can pull off," Demeter said, her eyes twinkling.

Zeus nodded, before raising his hands. Lightning arced out of his right palm, before freezing in mid-air, making spectacular shapes, some of which Hestia had never even seen before. After a minute, he finished and sat down proudly. Hera clapped hard, sounding like an elephant stampeding.

Demeter and Hestia clapped politely, staring at their sister in amusement. She flushed red, before glaring at them angrily. Poseidon got up next, closing his eyes and making a stream erupt in the middle of the room. The water rose up from the stream, transforming into a shape.

A moment later, identical replicas of the siblings were standing in front of them, mimicking their every move. The sisters stared in awe before applause broke out. Even Zeus admitted that Poseidon's first act was better.

Hades stood up, grinning evilly. He went out behind a pillar, and a second later, there was a tapping on Zeus's shoulder. Zeus let out a shrill girl-like scream before leaping out of his seat. Zeus turned around to see his brother Hades's face, sticking out of a shadow. Hades's hands were there as well.

Hades pulled his hand out of the shadow, and it reappeared in Poseidon's shadow, tugging on his toga. A moment later, many different body parts were poking out of the shadow and generally giving people a fright.

The second round was fighting, each god would demonstrate an ability that would be the most applicable for combat. Hades went first, putting on the Helm of Darkness and radiated fear, before stealing their weapons and tying them up while they struggled.

Hera was cowering in fear while Poseidon smirked. " Hey, Hades? I don't think Hera got your demonstration, maybe do it again?" He asked wryly. "No!" Hera shrieked, while Demeter and Hestia laughed. Zeus looked mad that they were teasing Hera and Poseidon immediately noticed.

" Hey, brother, looks like you got a thing for Hera ay?" He asked, wiggling his eyebrows. Zeus and Hera flushed red, but the glares they were showing shut Poseidon up.

Zeus went next, summoning in an entire storm, and zapping people with lightning. He sucked all the air out of the room for a moment, which scared Hestia, because out of all her siblings, Zeus was the most like Kronos.

Poseidon shuddered. Hera, getting revenge for the earlier remarks taunted him. " Don't think you can do better than your brothers Poseidon? Your the middle child, the one that's the most forgotten, good luck! " She said cheerily. How she knew the middle children were forgotten was beyond Hestia but she just watched in shock.

Poseidon looked angry. His glare chilled Hestia to the bone, almost as much as the Helm of Darkness, and that was without any powers. Poseidon smirked, before narrowing his eyes. Hera jerked upwards. seemingly uncontrol of her body. She stuck her arms out and flapped them wildly, like a chicken. " You b#!%^ !" She yelled. Poseidon roared in anger, clenching his fist now.

Hera rose up, similarly to Hecate, before dropping on the ground, unconscious. Zeus and Hades gaped, confused. " What was that?" Demeter asked urgently, rushing over to Hera. " It's fine. She'll be awake in 10 minutes." Poseidon said calmly.

Zeus drew his master bolt and pointed it at Poseidon. " How dare you hurt her!" He bellowed, lightning crackling around his hair. Hestia wasn't sure if Poseidon was trying to keep it under control, or all of the rage from Hera and Zeus's remarks just made him snap.

Poseidon yelled, making Zeus fall unconscious and taking his master bolt. Demeter stared. " Poseidon! Stop this!" She yelled, trying to stop Poseidon from impaling his legs with his trident. " No." He snarled.

" I have had it with Zeus and Hera, parading over everyone and thinking that they are better. Their insults and stuff have brought me to the edge! " He yelled. A shockwave erupted from his body, sending Demeter, Hades, and Hestia into a pillar. Poseidon brandished his trident, before bringing it down.

Hades flashed into a shadow, before taking Zeus and Hera. The shadow dissipated and Zeus was gone.

" Hades!" Poseidon growled. The vines inched towards Poseidon, who was unaware of them. A vine rose up like a snake before whipping him in the back of the head. Poseidon fell unconscious

Flashback end

" So, Uncle P, you almost killed Father?" Apollo asked. " Yes." Was all Poseidon said. " All my children have the ability, but none of them have ever experimented enough to discover it." He said.

Zeus spoke up, shocking Hestia. When had he appeared? " Then we must kill young Perseus!" Zeus exclaimed. Poseidon slowly turned to Zeus. " Excuse me?" He asked slowly. Zeus seemed to gulp.

" Your son is extremely powerful, in a few years, he may be powerful enough to overthrow Olympus! He has the loyalty of both the Hunters of Artemis and Camp Half-Blood. In time, he managed to win over Camp Jupiter as well! If he mounted an attack, we would be gone." Zeus said.

Poseidon laughed coldly. " But that's just it, isn't it." Zeus's gaze turned inquiring.

"Loyalty," Poseidon said. " Percy's fatal flaw is loyalty you power-hungry snake, and right now his loyalty rests with Olympus. "

Zeus flushed in anger. " I am your king. Treat me with respect!" Zeus thundered. Arcs of electricity danced across his skin, his beard crackled with lightning. Poseidon glared at him, Hades joining in.

Hestia shook her head, disappointed. " Brother, Seriously?" Zeus looked shocked before he flashed away.

~~Later, when the Throne Room is empty.~~

"Poseidon!" A voice yelled from behind him, Poseidon stopped, turning around slowly. " Yes, brother?" He asked, wary of what was to come.

" I need to have a word with you and Athena if you will," Zeus asked urgently. Poseidon was uncertain but said yes. He wondered why his manipulative brother needed to speak with him.

" Poseidon," Athena breathed. Not that he would admit it of course, but Athena certainly was beautiful. For some odd reason, Poseidon wished he looked better than an old man.

If Poseidon did tell Athena, he'd probably end up with a spear to the crotch, but that wasn't the reason Zeus had called him here. " We need to do something about Perseus," Zeus said. Poseidon turned sharply to Zeus, while Athena watched attentively.

" What do you mean by that?" He asked carefully. " I mean, we need a way to keep his loyalty. Permanently." Poseidon nodded, stroking his beard. " What do you have in mind Father?" Athena queried, her stormy grey eyes capturing his.

Poseidon could get lost in those eyes, and he was grateful no one knew about his "infatuation" with the wisdom goddess. " Well, we could kill someone close to him and blame it on Gaea," Zeus answered, his eyes flitting around nervously.

" No way! We are not killing my daughter." Athena said hotly. ( In both ways, Poseidon could add.) " Not your daughter, Athena, Sally Jackson," Zeus said. Poseidon objected. " No!" He yelled. Athena thought about it.

" As much as I dislike the murder of a smart woman, I think it is essential." Poseidon reeled away in shock. " No!" Poseidon repeated again. Athena sighed. " Think about it Poseidon, Perseus agreed with Luke in the first war, he admitted the gods were flawed, but Grandfather was worse. He's already at the edge, having fallen into Tartarus for our sake."

Poseidon thought about her words. Athena turned to her father.

" How can you be so sure Perseus will survive Tartarus?" Poseidon sucked in a breath sharply. What if Percy didn't survive? Olympus as a whole would be doomed, Poseidon didn't want to lose his son. Athena looked back at him apologetically.

" I do not know for sure, but just in case." Poseidon sighed. There were tears in his eyes that Poseidon had made evaporate. " So let the council vote on it," Athena suggested. Zeus nodded thoughtfully. " Alright daughter, in 2 weeks' time, I shall hold a council meeting."

Poseidon flashed away, leaving behind a scent of sea mist, and tears on the floor.

~~ Now Hazel goes to Hecate~~

The black skies didn't help Hazel's mood as she most certainly walked to her doom. Hazel made her way down the wooden ladder, yelping a few times as she lost her footing and almost impaled herself on the boar's tusks. The ladder was pretty short in total but the weather made it extremely hard to focus.

The wind whipped her hair into her face, making her vision foggy. The seas were grey, like Annabeth's eyes, somber and depressing. Hazel reached the ground, and a few diamonds popped up next to her, which the figure eyes greedily.

Hazel focused, and the diamonds sank into the ground. " Aww, Girl! Why did you do that! I could have used those diamonds to buy myself some clothes." A shrill voice said. That's when she realized the archer was female.

Something felt off somehow, there was mist floating off of her. " Sorry, but the diamonds are cursed, so if you do use one, you'll die, and even if it seems weird, I don't want you to die," Hazel said nervously. " Aww, that's sweet. Especially since we empousai feast on demigod flesh often." She exclaimed cheerily like it was perfectly normal.

She tripped. "You're an empousai?" The empousai laughed. " Of course girl, I'm Serephone." She said. She offered a human hand out for her, and Hazel warily accepted. " Don't worry girl, I won't hurt you, Hecate would burn me alive if I did. " She grumbled.

Hazel let out a sigh of relief, if she wasn't getting eaten, she was fine. " So, this hog's your ride?" She asked awkwardly. " Yeah, you could call it that. It's technically the Dark Lady's but I use him often." She said.

A silence settled in between the two, as the hog trotted up the hill, where it started becoming foggy.

Minutes in the fog completely enveloped the hill in a white glaze. The setting seemed perfect for a horror movie. Hazel honestly wouldn't be surprised if there was a jumpscare. The hog stopped. " Why did we stop?" Hazel asked nervously. " This part of the hill takes some special measures to get through." The empousai said, pulling an item that looked suspiciously like the arm of a human. She tossed it into the fog, where it disappeared. The fog cleared to reveal the hilltop, which was a scary sight.

The entire hilltop looked like a 70s film, the hilltop was void of color. The grass was like snow, the trees were black, the trunks were grey. " Hazel Levesque." A woman's voice said. Hazel gasped, the woman sounded like her mother. " Mom?" She asked. There was fog everywhere, tendrils of white smoke wrapping around everything. Mist. The Mist.

Hazel knew it was the magical mist that shielded the eyes of mortals and demigods alike. The mist that allowed monsters to disguise themselves as humans, allowed gods to disguise as humans, it was pure magic.

Hazel turned, when the mist cleared, revealing a ruin. Ruined walls bordered a square courtyard about the size of a tennis court. Three other gateways, one in the middle of each wall, led north, east, and west. In the center of the yard, two cobblestone paths intersected, making a cross. A lady stood, on the eastern entrance. . . Scratch that, she was standing in the western entrance. No, the northern entrance.

The woman was standing in all three entrances at once, her figure hazy. She towered over Hazel. She assumed the lady was easily six feet. She was pale, making her glow in the white and black world. Hazel looked down at her hands, which were a murky grey. It was unnerving.

" Hazel Levesque, I am Hecate, Titaness of Magic. We have a lot to talk about."

~~ Finally Calypso makes an actual appearance~~

The Fates were cruel.

It was a fact, not an opinion.

The island of Ogygia was silent. The usual calming chirps of the birds were silent, the wind was still, so the cypress trees that filled the grassy hills didn't rustle. It was as if time had stopped. The only noise was faint, the relaxing noise of the waves gently lapping the shore filled Calypso's ears, as she cried her heart out.

It had been three years since the last visitor to the phantom island. Percy Jackson. Her heart ached for companionship, whether it be romantic or just friendship. The first hero that had ever set foot on the lush forests of Ogygia was Odysseus, the brave legacy of Hermes. The next was Francis Drake, a handsome pirate. Then finally was Perseus Jackson, son of Poseidon. She had felt romantic love for Odysseus and Perseus, yet familial love for Drake.

Calypso resented her punishment, did what all demigods did, and supported their immortal parent, but the Olympians thought of her as evil. A meaningless word really.

Percy Jackson had told her about Luke Castellan, a son of Hermes who had gone astray to help Kronos rise. But was it really evil if Luke believed what he was doing was right? No, for Luke, the Olympians were evil, disregarding their children, treating them like pawns. It wasn't right, but it was life. There were many demigods who agreed with Luke, hundreds of them. The only reason the ones who didn't defect thought of Luke as evil was their families. They feared what the rising of Kronos would do to the world.

As well as the Olympians, who sired them. The demigods felt a sense of loyalty towards them. And for what reason? Because of parentage. Evil and Good were just beliefs, no one was purely evil or purely good. There was a balance between them, and every few years the universe tested that balance by causing an imbalance.

As she cried, she pondered what she had done in life, to deserve something so cruel, to get company for such a short time, loving them, before they have to leave, deserting Calypso again, as she waits for the next time somebody wrenched her heart out.

She cursed Perseus Jackson, cursed him to feel the despair she felt, every single day for the past three thousand years. Cursed him to feel the hopelessness and the suffering.

She sobbed silently, her head between her knees as she curled up into a ball, wishing she could drown herself. The waves stilled, and Calypso stared at the ocean, a streak of darkness, whizzing through the water, like a snake circling its prey, constricting the island. Something that only happened when someone was about to arrive on the island.

Calypso looked up, and a whizzing blur of red plummeted into her dining table.

~~Now back to Hell~~

The worst thing about the place was the food. Percy could guess it had been at least a week in Tartarus, which would probably mean it was like 2 days up in the real world, maybe one.

But the food was disgusting. It tasted like somebody had marinated it in gasoline then spat on it, adding a ton of spice and a disgusting tinge of bitterness. At one point, Percy could swear there was a cyclops eye in the goop. The hospitality wasn't much better, if he had to rate it, he'd give it a one-star.

Polybotes came in every day, hitting him so at least 8 of his bones shattered per day. He was then forced to drink the Phlegethon so he didn't die. Today was no different. Polybotes walked in, grinning sadistically. He didn't speak, he never spoke.

There was something different though. There was a person behind him, a shadowy figure a bit shorter than Polybotes. There was something familiar about him though. The shadows left the room, and Percy's eyes watered. Tears dripped down his face, splattering on the black floor.

The figure radiated a harsh light, the light that was unceasing and cruel, the light that burned crops, caused droughts, forest fires, and firestorms. Hyperion. His flaming armor illuminated the room, hurting his eyes greatly. His eyes glowed like miniature suns.

" Percy Jackson, oh how I have waited for revenge." He said, his voice sounding like gravel. " Weren't you a maple tree?" Percy choked out. Hyperion looked at him coldly. A mirror rose out of the ground, showing Percy's current state.

Percy's hair was grey, matted with grime and dust. His shirt was gone, the blessing of the Phlegethon was covered in a layer of dirt. His arms were red, the skin torn and bone sticking out in multiple places. His left leg was bent backward, while his right was limp, and Percy couldn't move it.

It was a miracle really, that Percy hadn't died. The Phlegethon was the only thing keeping him from death, without that, he'd be gone. " After I'm done with you, a broken leg will be the least of your worries."

Hyperion barked. Hyperion drew his massive gold blade, a deadly six-foot-long weapon of destruction. He threw it to the ground. At once Hyperion surged forwards, driving a fist into his gut.

" This. Is. For. The. Tree." He said, consecutively punching his ribs, where he heard one crack. " This. Is. For. My. Return. To. Tartarus. " He growled, and Percy's chest hurt like, well, Hell. Polybotes laughed, as Percy coughed out blood, enough blood to fill up a cup.

Polybotes put a cup up to his mouth. Percy drank slowly, choking on the liquid multiple times. The routine continued for an hour, and Percy was sure his ribs were broken well beyond repair.

" Now, for the finishing touch," Hyperion muttered like he was adding the final stroke of a brush to a beautiful painting. And to Hyperion, that was probably what it seemed like, the finishing move to Percy's daily torture.

Hyperion picked up the discarded blade, before bringing it up to Percy's elbow. " Can't have you pulling any stunts when you're transported to Gaea eh?" Hyperion said. With a quick strike, the blade severed Percy's right arm from his body.

For a moment, Percy felt nothing, just pure white, hazy pain. A moment later, the pain hit. Searing and strong, the pain was everywhere, shockwaves of undiluted pain shot through his body.

The arm laid on the ground, twitching slightly. The severed bone clashes with the black floor. As for the smell? Forget it. Percy screamed in agony. It felt as if he had just lost his best friend, he felt as if something was fundamentally wrong. Percy's mind became woozy, and it all faded to black.

~~Short time skip~~

Percy desperately prayed it was a dream, praying to all the gods that he hadn't lost his arm, that it was an illusion, a cruel trick Polybotes was playing on him.

His eyes adjusted to the dark, and to his dismay, his arm was still there, unmoving and limp. Percy sobbed. How could he fight? How could he lead the prophecy and battle giants, without using his dominant hand? Training to use his left arm would be like restarting, 5 years of progress just gone. In the blink of an eye.

Percy wanted to die right there, the sweet release of death. He'd be able to see them again, Luke, Silena, Beckendorf, Ethan, Lee, Michael, and eventually, the Seven as well. He yearned for it. For everything to just . . . Stop.

He wondered what it would be like, to just stop drinking the Phlegethon water, stop getting healed, and die. Polybotes wouldn't allow it, but he could try.

Before he could think of anything though, Polybotes burst in gleefully, a triumphant look on his face. He was holding a long dagger, made out of mortal steel.

Polybotes didn't say anything, just smiled at him softly. The dagger plunged into his back, and Percy let out a scream of torment. The dagger ran through his flesh, parting it like butter. The knife reached the bone, and Percy could feel his bones moving, he could feel the knife, as it was soaked in his blood. He stepped back, admiring his work.

Polybotes continued, each second the blade plunged deeper into his back. He could feel it scrape his bones, reach his very soul.

Percy screamed a feral sound that would have broken the hearts of anyone who heard it.

Polybotes left satisfied, and Percy had his first dream since arriving in Tartarus.

~~ Inside the dream lands~~

When Percy's eyes opened, he had a flash of recognition.

This cave was familiar. The ceiling glittered with different-color crystal formations—white and purple and green, the cave was divided into sections by white silk curtains. Against one wall stood a large loom and a harp. Against the other wall were shelves neatly stacked with jars of fruit preserves. Dried herbs hung from the ceiling: rosemary, thyme, and a bunch of other stuff.

"Ogygia." He breathed, excitement coursing through him.

"Percy?" A voice asked. Percy recognized the voice to be Calypso.

Just gonna, switch to Percy's PoV

I smiled weakly. " Hey Calypso." Calypso ran towards me, trying to engulf me in a hug. Her arms passed straight through as if I was mist. I looked at my arms, expecting them to look like a horror scene, but I was relieved to see my right arm was still intact.

" This is a dream. . ." I muttered. My body was still mangled, but the dream didn't show it. Without meaning to, I broke down, sobbing hard. Calypso stared at me worriedly. " Percy, what happened to you?" She asked.

" I'm so sorry. " I croaked. She was still stuck on Ogygia, the gods never followed through with their promise.

" For what brave one?" She asked, looking at me concerned.

" I'm sorry that the gods didn't follow through with their promise, they promised to let you free! They promised..." I shuddered. I turned to look at Calypso, and she looked the same. She still was otherworldly beautiful, but her face was tear-streaked and sad.

Her caramel hair was braided over her left shoulder, while her dark eyes were pooled with tears. " It's ok, Percy, I understand you tried your best. It isn't your fault the gods can't keep promises." She said firmly, and I felt like I had just given the sky to Atlas again.

A huge weight had been lifted off of my shoulders, she didn't blame me.

" Now, hero, what happened to you?" She asked. I found myself staring at her face again. She stared at me in amusement. My eyes pooled with tears, and she looked at me concerned. " I'm in Tartarus." I choked out. " It's - it's not going so well."

Calypso just stared at me. " How?" She asked, worry flashing across her face. " Uhm, Annabeth was falling, so I fell in instead, I got her to safety though," I said, trying not to get her to worry. Calypso's face changed from concern to . . . jealousy? I had no clue why she was jealous.

Before I could say anything, her face slipped back to concern. " Are you okay?" She asked me, her dark eyes staring into mine. For no reason whatsoever, I flushed. " Uuhhh, no?" The dream began getting fuzzy around the edges. " Tell me anything you can, some of the gods would probably want to know." I winced. The tears began falling.

" I'm worthless." I sobbed. " I won't be able to fight anymore. I'll be a burden on the crew of the Argo. What's the use of fighting? It'd be better if I died here." Calypso's once soft face was now hardened with fiery determination.

" Perseus Jackson!" She yelled. " Look at me." She commanded.

I did.

She glared at me for a second.

" Don't you ever think that you are worthless! You're funny, kind, talented, and so much more, you aren't worthless." She paused for a breath. " Whatever happened, you'll make it out. I didn't know you for long, but I know that you can pull yourself out of any situation, and make the best of it."

My heart felt jittery, as she continued glaring at me.

" Now tell me what happened." She commanded again.

I looked at her face, and every single defense I had built up broke.

" I'm missing my sword arm. Hate me." I said. I wholeheartedly believed I would be shunned for missing an arm. So many people had risked their lives for me. Bianca, Zoe, Lee, Castor, Michael, Luke, and so many more unnamed ones. That happened when I still could fight. Now that I couldn't, my friends would have to waste time and energy making sure I was okay, I'd be a useless addition to their quest.

" Percy," Calypso said.

Percy looked up weakly.

Calypso opened her mouth to say something, but the world faded to black.

I appeared on another island, with daisies peppered across the green grass, where two figures in their teens stood mournfully, looking at the beach. " Apollo, Lady Artemis," I said, recognizing the two figures. Artemis turned towards me in shock, her bow drawn in a flash.

A silver arrow flew, embedding itself in a tree trunk behind me. " Perseus." Artemis breathed, and Apollo was wide-eyed. " Percy?" Apollo asked. " In the fog!" I exclaimed, trying to keep their hearts up. I refused to tell Apollo, who was a doctor, about my horrible state.

Apollo glared at me. His eyes widened a moment later, looking unbearably sad. He put his hands to his mouth, as his eyes pooled with tears.

I had a guess. He could probably read my mind, and he knew what happened. " Oh my." He whispered. Artemis glanced between us with alarm. " What is it, brother? What happened?" She asked him. I glared at him. " Please, Lord Apollo. Please don't tell anyone." I begged him.

Apollo's eyes widened even further. I never called him Lord, me begging as well, meant he knew the severity. " I can't Percy, I'm sorry." My eyes were refilled with tears. " Please. You owe me, you know you do." I continued, desperately trying to keep the tears at bay.

Artemis's eyes widened comically. " Perseus?" She asked me, her voice regal and commanding. Her voice alone made me want to tell her everything, however I resisted. " I can't. Uncle Poseidon is worried sick, he needs to know." Apollo said.

I felt myself getting angry. What is with gods and not respecting your wishes? First Calypso isn't freed, then Piper was sent to camp at the age of fifteen when the promised age was 13, along with Leo. They never listen, and expect us to follow blindly.

" What is with you guys?" I snapped angrily. " Why can't any of you immortal gods, respect anything that a mortal asks or says. Ever. Why is that?" Artemis's eyes widened before turning into a steely glare. Apollo just looked at me sadly.

" Of course, boys. Just when I assumed that there were any good ones on the planet. Your family is worried sick, and you're getting mad at us for wishing to inform them." She snarled at me, glaring at me harshly. It hurt me, but I just became angrier.

She had absolutely no idea what was happening, and yet made accusations with literally no proof.

" Oh, the mighty Artemis, hater of men, and murderer of children!" Artemis opened her mouth to speak, but I cut her off.

I know what you're thinking, I was mocking a legitimate god. Sue me.

I wasn't finished though. " How old was the boy in Colorado who got his entire life ripped from him for doing what exactly?" Artemis opened her mouth, closing it again . She spoke. " He was 14 years old, a demigod son of, I'd guess Hermes, he made a lewd remark to one of my hunters, so I turned him into a jackelope."

I was about to yell at her when the dream faded.

My eyes fluttered open, and I did a double-take.

The one person that I had hoped to never see again was standing in front of me. His three hairs slicked over his head, his double chin, his horrifying smell.

Gabe Ugliano