ｔｈｅ ｌａｓｔ ｏｌｙｍｐｉａｎ

THE THREE FATES THEMSELVES TOOK LUKE'S BODY.

They were three ghoulish grandmothers with bags of knitting needles and yarn. Which didn't seem scary until you realized that the yarn was the lifeline of every mortal being in the world.

One of them looked at Lucia, and even though she didn't say anything, her life flashed before her eyes. The last thing she saw was her own funeral pyre and a golden shroud with a shimmering violet hyacinth embroidered at the center. All this happened in less than a second, she didn't get a glimpse of anything else. Suddenly, the pain in her stomach grew tenfold.

Lucia had known for a while that the poison was spreading...and you know what they say, old habits die hard.

It is done, she said.

Atropos held up a snippet of blue yarn—and Lucia noticed the way Percy stared at it. Suddenly, a strand of violet appeared in Lachesis's hands, connecting to Clothos' spindle. this one shall be determined soon.

Lucia took a ragged breath in. She looked at Percy who was already staring back at her. She had managed to stop using him as a crutch, but right now all she wanted was for him to hold her again.

They gathered up Luke's body, now wrapped in a white-and-green shroud, and began carrying it out of the throne room.

"Wait," Hermes said.

The messenger god was dressed in his classic outfit of white Greek robes, sandals, and helmet. The wings of his helm fluttered as he walked. The snakes George and Martha curled around his caduceus, murmuring, Luke, poor Luke.

Lucia thought about May Castellan, alone and waiting for a son who would never come home.

Hermes unwrapped Luke's face and kissed his forehead. He murmured some words in Ancient Greek—a final blessing.

"Farewell," he whispered. Then he nodded and allowed the Fates to carry away his son's body.

As they left, The Prophecy lines unraveled to Lucia. The hero's soul, cursed blade shall reap. The hero was Luke. The cursed blade was the knife he'd given Annabeth long ago—cursed because Luke had broken his promise and betrayed his friends.

A single choice shall end his days. Percy's choice, to give him the knife, and to believe, as Annabeth had, that he was still capable of setting things right.

Olympus to preserve or raze. By sacrificing himself, he saved Olympus.

On the other side of Percy, Annabeth's knees buckled. He caught her, but she cried out in pain, He'd grabbed her broken arm.

"Oh gods," He said. "Annabeth, I'm sorry."

"It's all right," she said as she passed out in his arms.

"She needs help!" He yelled.

"Me too..." Lucia's voice came out a squeak. She gripped her stomach and stumbled. Percy tried to reach over but with Annabeth already in his arms, Grover stepped in.

"I've got this." Apollo stepped forward. His fiery armor was so bright it was hard to look at, and his matching Ray-Bans and perfect smile made him look like a male model for battle gear. "God of medicine, at your service."

He passed his hand over Annabeth's face and spoke an incantation. Immediately the bruises faded. Her cuts and scars disappeared. Her arm straightened, and she sighed in her sleep.

"Give her a few, She will awake soon." Apollo turned to his daughter. "Little Star don't worry the poison hasn't spread too far and your arm will be good as new. While you heal we will have enough time to compose a poem about our victory: 'Apollo, Little star, and their friends save Olympus.' Good, eh?"

"No." Zeus ordered, Apollo stopped in his tracks."You will not heal her. I forbid you."

"What!" Percy howled, his gaze falling to Lucia's broken state in Grover's arms. Her lips were unnaturally green. "Save her now!"

"He does not answer to you, Jackson. You will not save that child, do you understand me, Apollo.." Zeus announced with authority. "I did tell you this would be discussed after."

"Father—" Artemis began

"I shall not be questioned!" He bellowed "She was never meant to be. You have done this Apollo, It is because of you she will die in front of you."

Apollo stayed frozen. He watched his daughter. His pinched expression showed his internal struggle. Percy glared at Zeus, he was about to explode, and even in her state, Lucia knew it.

"It hurts," She admitted, blood trickling out of the corner of her lips. She felt like her insides were melting away, the pain became agonizing. She shifted in Grover's arms. "Percy...I want Percy."

Percy's eyes snapped away from Zeus. "Grover take Annie."

A teary-eyed Grover received Annabeth. Lucia wiped away a tear that fell before moving into Percy's arms. She wrapped her arms around his neck and smiled. Her knees buckled immediately, a cry of pain fell from her lips and she dropped. He went down with her, cradling her close to him.

"Apollo." He said through his teeth, his eyes rimmed red "She's your daughter. Be fucking there for her."

Apollo's face twisted in anger. He took a deep breath in to steady his breathing. "I can't do anything, Jackson."

"Bullshit!" He screamed, He looked to the gods with an untamed look in his eyes. "She saved you all!"

A hand fell to his cheek. Lucia caressed Percy's cheekbone and hushed him softly. "Don't be sad... We did it. Together, we win..."

Percy squeezed his eyes shut as a sob wracked through his chest. "Luz...." His voice broke as he looked at her. "You have to save her."

"We have already answered that prayer once." Zeus didn't budge, "Even if I allow her to live, she will live life punished by Hades' furies. She has spilled kindred blood. She will either be driven mad or forced to endure a plague of misfortunes. Either way, she will face a harsh trial. Believe it or not, this is the best option with the least amount of suffering. That is the reward she will receive for her part in saving Olympus."

"Well fuck." She groaned, a sarcastic laugh fell from her lips "I can feel the apprecia—AH" Lucia winced,  she gripped onto Percy's bicep as the pain spread up, she could feel it slowly rising to her heart.

"Hey." Percy whispered, "It's okay Sunlight, I'm here."

The room seemed to become much brighter and warmer, Apollo's eyes flared with burning flames of gold, "It was not kindred blood! The Erinyes can not pursue her if we have a trial and she is found innocent. There are other ways. This is just cruel."

"Who will my Erinyes be pursuing?" Hades asked as he stepped into the throne room. He was only supposed to visit Olympus on the winter solstice so the god of the dead looked stunned when his relatives clapped him on the back. Some were more enthusiastic than others. Apollo didn't greet him at all, he wouldn't move from his spot near his daughter.

Nico di Angelo came into Olympus right behind his father. He walked in with confidence and pride. But his face quickly dropped when he saw the crumpled body of a brunette in Percy's arm."Lucia?"

"Neeks."

"Lu-No!" He ran over and kneeled in front of them, his eyes swirled with a mix of pain and rage. Lucia could almost recognize that look... "Not you..."

"Look after him, Percy." She coughed, choking on her blood. "I know he can take care of himself but..." She couldn't finish her sentence, she wheezed. There was too much to say in little time. "Tell Annabeth I'm sorry and that I love her. Tell Sally thank you...Grover..."

"Do it yourself." He said.

She ignored him, "I love you, Percy. So much..."

"Stop it!" He hissed.

"We have to do something. Nico asked "Dad?"

Hades looked just as stuck as the rest of the Olympians. "Son I'm sorry."

Athena spoke, "She has been a great piece in this war, Father. Despite her lack of wisdom at many moments, she is a hero and has helped save Olympus."

"She is a traitor." Ares hissed, "Don't forget she worked under Kronos."

Hermes snarled, his glare heavy and filled with anguish. "Because he manipulated her mind. She does not deserve death if it can be prevented."

"ENOUGH!" Zeus said, "The girl was never to be born. Apollo defied me. He knows this is his punishment."

"Father." Apollo begged, "I will take any other punishment. This is my daughter. let us have the trial, but don't...."

"You love me? Real." Lucia gasped, She could hear the Olympian Gods grumbling to each other about whether she was worth saving or not. But she didn't care, the only thing she cared about was the people that surrounded her. Grover, Annabeth, Nico, Her Dad...And him

Annabeth had woken up, she lay tirelessly on Grover's shoulder watching the scene unfold with bloodshot eyes. Her face showed nothing less than heartbreak, the face of someone who had to lose two people she loved in one day.

"You know the answer..."

Lucia's breathing was labored. She panted, fighting to get in air to soothe the burning in her lungs. Her weakened hand fell from his face, having lost the strength to hold it up. Instead, she looked into the deep green eyes that knew how to make her heart flutter.

Before she knew it she started to cry. A sob fell from her lips and she didn't want to hide how she felt. She was sick and tired of that. "I don't want to die, Perce. I don't want to die..."

It was then that tears began to stream down his own face, His eyebrows furrowed together and a pained sound fell from his lips. The palace began to tremble as he cradled her closer. The tremors moved them all side to side as if the palace was a boat on water rather than solid ground.

"Son?" Poseidon gasped, "Percy you need to calm down."

Bessie mooed frantically as the water in her tank began to swirl and splash, the thick glass threatening to break as water pounded against it. "Don't you dare." He spoke to her, despite her entering a state where she couldn't answer anymore. He was blinded by a need to not have her slip away again. He couldn't hear, see or think of anything else but her. "No. no. I will look for you in the damn underworld if I have to Lucia! You can't leave me. Not like this... I just want to be with you."

"Brother you're being unreasonable, surely—"

"You will not finish that sentence Poseidon."

"But I shall." Hera announced "She must not die. It is not yet her time. There is much for this young woman to do." she stepped towards her husband walking with grace and power. "Allow Apollo to heal her at once."

"My Dearest wife Ple—"

"Is this how you repay those who have risked their lives to save us and Olympus? This is not only Apollo's punishment to bear as you can see. He will not be the only one to suffer from this death. This is no way to repay the Heroes who have saved our family and thrones. Husband. I advise you to listen to me. And don't for a moment think I've forgotten about Thalia—"

"ENOUGH!" Zeus was enraged about being defied. Lightning flickered off his beard and he tightened his jaw. He looked about ready to smite everyone in the room, but they were all surprised to hear what he said next.  "Apollo—".

Apollo was already kneeling beside his daughter. His hands fell on her forehead as she lay helpless in Percy's arms. "It's okay little star. It's okay. You won't die."

"Papa?" Lucia asked, her gaze looked up lost in a trance.

"No!" Apollo panicked, "Jackson do not let her close her eyes!"

"Luz." Percy rubbed circles on her jaw as Apollo began his incantation. "Luz. Lucia. Hey. My sunlight. Stay awake. Stay with me okay? Please."

Lucia didn't respond.

"Lucy." Annabeth sniffled, she shifted forward. Grover followed right behind her "Hey keep your eyes open Lucy or I'll be really mad at you. I know you hate when I'm mad at you. Lucy?"

"Lulu come on." Grover tried

"Lucia." Nico chimed in.

Her eyes remained glossed over but she managed to mutter once more "Dad?"

"It's me. Keep your eyes open, little star." He begged. "We're almost there. I can save you. I can." His voice grew faint like he got lost in thought. Or a memory.

Apollo kept going as Percy rubbed more circles in comfort, he still held her, refusing to let her go. Annabeth and Nico called her name. Grover played her favorite song on his pipes.

Apollo stopped his hymn, moved away from Percy, and stood.

Pure silence fell through the room as everyone watched in apprehension.

They all only stared at the girl, waiting...

A few beats passed and no response came

Then an almost melodic groan rung through the palace

Her hand fell to rest on her chest. Lucia blinked. "Ow?"

Relief fell over their faces. The moment he saw her respond a huff fell from his lips. Percy held her tighter. His face fell to nestle in her neck. "Luz."

Her arm weakly wrapped around his shoulders the best it could in their position. "I'm here. It's okay."

His voice broke, and he seemed to forget the audience. "I thought I was going to lose you again..."

She chuckled, her hand rose to brush through his soft dark hair. "You never have Perce. You have me, Until the end of time, you have me."

☼

THE NEXT FEW HOURS WERE A BLUR. Lucia had managed to fully heal from all her injuries and despite the occasional angry grumbling from Zeus, things seemed to have calmed down.

Percy made a request and Zeus didn't even blink an eye. He snapped his fingers and informed them that the top of the Empire State Building was now lit up blue.

mortals would have to wonder what it meant, but Sally would know: He had survived, Olympus was saved.

The gods set about repairing the throne room, which went surprisingly fast with twelve super-powerful beings at work.

Grover, Annabeth, Percy, and Lucia cared for the wounded and greeted their friends who had survived.

The Cyclopes had saved Thalia from the fallen statue. She was on crutches, but otherwise, she was okay. She asked Lucia to make her a black leg cast. Lucia responded vaguely, she knew there was a possibility this was the last time she'd be with any of them ever again. At the end of the day, she was still a killer, and her punishment had to come.

Connor and Travis Stoll had made it through with only minor injuries. They said they hadn't looted the city much but Lucia was quite doubtful about that.

They told Percy his parents were fine, though they weren't allowed into Mount Olympus. Mrs. O'Leary had dug Chiron out of the rubble and rushed him off to camp.

Lucia was worried about the old centaur. She could tell that Annabeth felt the same as her lips pursed and she fiddled with her fingers. But at the very least he was still alive.

Katie Gardner reported that she'd seen Rachel Elizabeth Dare run out of the Empire State Building at the end of the battle. Rachel had looked unharmed, but nobody knew where she'd gone, which troubled Lucia and annoyed Annabeth.

Clarisse marched in, still shivering from her time in the ice block, and Ares bellowed, "There's my girl!"

The god of war ruffled her hair and pounded her on the back, calling her the best warrior he'd ever seen. "That drakon-slaying? THAT'S what I'm talking about!"

She looked pretty overwhelmed. All she could do was nod and blink, like she was afraid he'd start hitting her, but eventually, she began to smile.

Hera passed Lucia and Annabeth

She sniffed in disdain. "I imagine you must be quite grateful. Save your thanks. I won't destroy Perseus, and you girls for now."

"Percy and Annabeth saved Olympus,"

The blonde glared at the goddess "And Lucia."

"Hmm," Hera whirled away in a huff, but they figured their lives would be safe, at least for a little while.

Lucia and Annabeth looked at each other with a smile. Annabeth opened her mouth to speak but was interrupted as a blonde boy body slammed into the brunette in front of her.

"Lu!" 

Annabeth smiled softly. "I'm going to go help out. Can we talk soon Lucy?"

Lucia looked up for a moment "Of course Beth."

"Thank the gods you're alive." Will squeezed his sister's waist " You just disappeared from thin air and I-I didn't know if I was ever going to see you again. Then Percy told me you almost d-died again. My G-Gods Lu!"

Lucia's hand fell to his back hesitantly. She knew that he saw a nasty side of her and was afraid he'd be disgusted by her. Or worse, afraid of her. "You're happy I'm okay?"

Will pulled away his eyes brimmed with tears. "Of course, I am stupid. Can't you see how much I need my big sister?"

Lucia frowned "But..."

"It's not your fault."

"I killed them Will...I'm not going to be able to go back to Camp."

Another voice chimed in "Actually you will."

Lucia turned to see Nico standing behind them. He crossed his arms over his aviator jacket. A stoic look on his face. "The Erinyes will not go after you."

She raised an eyebrow, "How do you know that?"

"My father." He said

"What did you do Nico?" Lucia whispered "I deserve whatever is granted please tell me you didn't do anyth--"

"All I did was talk to him. Will helped, he told him what happened..." He said, "I'm okay Lucia, Honest."

"Shouldn't I be put on trial?" she frowned, looking between him and Will.

Nico avoided her eyes, he looked at the ground. "Let's just say my Dad didn't mind doing you a favor."

She hummed, "Why?"

Nico finally looked at her. "You know why."

Lucia smiled, "Thank you, Neeks."

His face fell. He looked at Will and gave her a dirty glare that would probably terrify any other demigod. "Don't call me that in front of people!"

She raised her hands up teasingly "So sorry Ghost King." she paused "Hey since when did you guys talk to each other?"

"We don't." Nico bit, "it was only to help you."

Lucia saw Wills's face scrunch up in annoyance and something else. "Yeah..."

Lucia studied them both and a grin fell on her lips "Oh well. you've helped me sooooo..."

Will raised a hand "Stopping you right there."

Lucia giggled as she grabbed her brother by his shoulders and shoved him in front of her. She laughed harder when they both turned to her with scarlet cheeks. "Be friends!"

"Lu--" "Please st-"

"Here go get some Mcdonalds after this" She pulled out a ten from her pocket and handed it to them "Enjoy!"

"How'd you even get-" "Mcdonalds?"

She ran off before either of them could protest more. A laugh escaped her lips as they called for her but she ran across the ruins. When she turned back around she saw them awkwardly standing in front of each other. Will scratched the back of his neck. Nico glared at him. It's a work in progress she thought optimistically They'll be close one day.

Lucia found herself going to Percy and Grover, conch horns blew. The army of Poseidon marched into the throne room.

"Percy!" Tyson yelled. He charged toward him with his arms open. Fortunately, he'd shrunk back to normal size.

"You are not dead!" he said.

"Yeah!" He agreed. "Amazing, huh?"

He clapped his hands and laughed happily. "I am not dead either. Yay! We chained Typhon. It was fun!"

Behind him, fifty other armored Cyclopses laughed and nodded and gave each other high fives. "Tyson led us," one rumbled. "He is brave!"

"Bravest of the Cyclopes!" another bellowed.

Tyson blushed. "Was nothing."

"I saw you!" He said. "You were incredible!"

Lucia thought poor Grover would pass out. He was deathly afraid of Cyclopes. But he steeled his nerves and said, "Yes. Um . . . three cheers for Tyson!"

"YAAARRRRR!" the Cyclopes roared.

"Please don't eat me," Grover muttered, but Lucia was sure she was the only one to hear him.

She patted him on the back, "I wouldn't let them G-Man"

He looked at her with appreciation. "I'm glad you're here Lulu. And not just because you won't let me become cyclops chow."

Can't you see how much I need my big sister?

Let's just say my dad didn't mind doing you a favor.

I'm glad you're here Lulu.

She grinned, her chest felt a little warmer.

The conch horns blasted again. The Cyclopes parted, and Poseidon strode forward in his battle armor, his trident glowing in his hands.

"Tyson!" he roared. "Well done, my son. And Percy—"

His face turned stern. He wagged his finger at him, and for a second Lucia was afraid he was going to zap him. "I even forgive you for sitting on my throne. You have saved Olympus!"

He held out his arms and hugged Percy. Lucia smiled, she realized that he'd never actually hugged his dad before.

Lucia watched as he teared up.

"Dad—"

"Shhh," he said. "No hero is above fear, Percy. And you have risen above every hero."

When he pulled away, Poseidon smiled kindly at him. He turned to Lucia and called her over. She bit her lip awkwardly and stopped beside Percy. Anxiety rippled through her. "Sir I—"

"When you were at sea there were moments I could hear your pleas for home." He said, "I watched as you fought against them and yourself. I do not label you as a traitor and neither shall my realm from this point on. I hope you know that you've done well and that you are a Hero of Olympus. I also apologize on behalf of my younger brother he can get real uptight when someone tells him he's wrong."

Lucia stuttered, "T-thank you." and she meant it.

He nodded, "I also must say that you both have my approval...Very good job son."

Percy's eyes widened, "Dad! no!"

"POSEIDON!" a voice roared.

Zeus had taken his throne. He glared across the room at Percy's dad while all the other gods filed in and took their seats. Hades was present, sitting on a simple stone guest chair at the foot of the hearth. Nico sat cross-legged on the ground at his dad's feet. Lucia smiled at him, to which he returned with a nod. She didn't mind, she knew deep down he was smiling back.

"Well, Poseidon?" Zeus grumbled. "Are you too proud to join us in council, my brother?"

Lucia thought Poseidon was going to get mad, but he just looked at them and winked. "I would be honored, Lord Zeus."

Poseidon strode over to his fishing seat, and the Olympian Council convened.

While Zeus was talking—some long speech about the bravery of the gods, etc.—Annabeth walked in and stood next to them.

"Miss much?" she whispered.

"Nobody's planning to kill us, so far," Percy whispered back.

"First time today." Lucia joked

They all cracked up, but Grover nudged Percy because Hera was giving them a dirty look.

Lucia thought back to the goddess vouching for her. She couldn't recall much, she was on the brink of death after all, but the point of the matter was that Hera saved her. Why? was her question and she had a feeling that the answer was not as simple as 'from the goodness of her heart'.

"As for my brothers," Zeus said, "we are thankful"—he cleared his throat like the words were hard to get out—"erm, thankful for the aid of Hades."

The lord of the dead nodded. He had a smug look on his face, but Lucia figured he'd earned the right. He patted his son on the shoulders, and Nico looked happier than she'd seen him in a while.

"And, of course," Zeus continued, though he looked like his pants were smoldering, "we must . . . um . . . thank Poseidon."

"I'm sorry, brother," Poseidon said. "What was that?"

"We must thank Poseidon," Zeus growled. "Without whom . . . it would've been difficult—"

"Difficult?" Poseidon asked innocently.

"Impossible," Zeus said. "Impossible to defeat Typhon."

The gods murmured agreement and pounded their weapons in approval.

"Which leaves us," Zeus said, "only the matter of thanking our young demigod heroes, who defended Olympus so well—even if there is a titan-sized dent in my throne."

Lucia shifted on her feet awkwardly whoops

He called Thalia forward first, since she was his daughter, and promised her help in filling the Hunters' ranks.

Artemis smiled. "You have done well, my lieutenant. You have made me proud, and all those Hunters who perished in my service will never be forgotten. They will achieve Elysium, I am sure."

She glared pointedly at Hades.

He shrugged. "Probably."

Artemis glared at him some more.

"Okay," Hades grumbled. "I'll streamline their application process."

Thalia beamed with pride. "Thank you, my lady." She bowed to the gods, even Hades, and then limped over to stand by Artemis's side.

"Tyson, son of Poseidon!" Zeus called. Tyson looked nervous, but he went to stand in the middle of the Council, and Zeus grunted.

"Doesn't miss many meals, does he?" Zeus muttered. "Tyson, for your bravery in the war, and for leading the Cyclopes, you are appointed a general in the armies of Olympus. You shall henceforth lead your brethren into war whenever required by the gods. And you shall have a new . . . um . . . what kind of weapon would you like? A sword? An axe?"

"Stick!" Tyson said, showing his broken club.

"Very well," Zeus said. "We will grant you a new, er, stick. The best stick that may be found."

"Hooray!" Tyson cried, and all the Cyclopes cheered and pounded him on the back as he rejoined them.

"Grover Underwood of the satyrs!" Dionysus called.
Grover came forward nervously.

"Oh, stop chewing your shirt," Dionysus chided. "Honestly, I'm not going to blast you. For your bravery and sacrifice, blah, blah, blah, and since we have an unfortunate vacancy, the gods have seen fit to name you a member of the Council of Cloven Elders."

Grover collapsed on the spot.

Lucia snorted. Percy and Annabeth looked at her and then at each other, a smile forming on their lips.

"Oh, wonderful," Dionysus sighed, as several naiads came forward to help Grover. "Well, when he wakes up, someone tell him that he will no longer be an outcast, and that all satyrs, naiads, and other spirits of nature will henceforth treat him as a lord of the Wild, with all rights, privileges, and honors, blah, blah, blah. Now please, drag him off before he wakes up and starts groveling."

"FOOOOOD," Grover moaned, as the nature spirits carried him away.

Lucia figured he'd be okay. He would wake up as a lord of the Wild with a bunch of beautiful naiads taking care of him. Life could be worse.

Athena called, "Annabeth Chase, my own daughter."

Annabeth squeezed Lucia's arm, then walked forward and knelt at her mother's feet.

Athena smiled. "You, my daughter, have exceeded all expectations. You have used your wits, your strength, and your courage to defend this city, and our seat of power. It has come to our attention that Olympus is . . . well, trashed. The Titan lord did much damage that will have to be repaired. We could rebuild it by magic, of course, and make it just as it was. But the gods feel that the city could be improved. We will take this as an opportunity. And you, my daughter, will design these improvements."

Lucia's face lit up.

Annabeth looked up, stunned. "My...my lady?"

Athena smiled wryly. "You are an architect, are you not? You have studied the techniques of Daedalus himself. Who better to redesign Olympus and make it a monument that will last for another eon?"

"You mean ...I  can design whatever I want?"

"As your heart desires," the goddess said. "Make us a city for the ages."

"As long as you have plenty of statues of me," Apollo added.

"And me," Aphrodite agreed.

"Hey, and me!" Ares said. "Big statues with huge wicked swords and—"

"All right!" Athena interrupted. "She gets the point. Rise, my daughter, official architect of Olympus."

Annabeth rose in a trance and walked back toward Percy and Lucia.

"Way to go," He told her

Lucia grinned "O great architect of Olympus."

For once she was at a loss for words. "I'll . . . I'll have to start planning . . . Drafting paper, and, um, pencils—"

"Lucia. Princess of Sparta." Apollo announced

Lucia's eyes widened. She choked on her words. "M-me?."

"Step forward little star." 

Suddenly Lucia felt Annabeth and Percy's hands creep on her back and she stumbled forward.

She took a deep breath in. All eyes were on her and it was not something she particularly liked but something she had gotten used to. She bowed to the gods before she kneeled in front of her father's throne.

"My daughter." Apollo smiled sadly, "You fell into vicious hands. Yet you fought bravely, in more ways than one. I am incredibly proud of you. And he...he'd be just as proud of you too. You are stronger than I could have ever imagined. you have defended this city and us all. From here on out you will be pardoned from the alleged crimes—

Zeus bellowed "Apollo!"

"Fine. pardoned for the crimes of treason and 'murder'. I know nothing can make up for or turn back the time of what you have gone through. But I hope for you to take time for yourself, truly for yourself. I ask you Lucia is there anything you'd like in your victory, if it is in my power I will grant it to you."

She hesitated, "I just want to know something."

"God of Knowledge, at your service."

"Ethan Nakamura...He's dead?"

Apollo snarled, "Yes. and he shall be punished for what he—"

"No!" She cried. "That isn't what I want. He died a hero. He was always a hero...He just had a hard time seeing it and made mistakes. Everything around him told him he was less than what he was... I-I know he wasn't perfect and I know I can't just ask for him to go to Elysium. I just ask for you to have mercy on him."

"He almost killed you, Twice—"

"And I choose to move on from that." She took a deep breath in. "I won't wallow in sad and painful memories. Or let them harden me and be my only defining traits. He did what he did but I'm still here. I don't want vengeance...I'm sick of that."

Apollo seemed hesitant but he agreed. "Very well. Hades—"

"Yeah yeah I'll cancel the torture order—" He huffed, a hand falling to the bridge of his nose "I have so much paperwork to do."

"Torture?!" Lucia's eyes widened

He shrugged, "Now, Lucia. Is that it?"

She nodded, "Yes, that's all I wanted...."

"I knew that you would not wish for anything." He nodded "Good thing your friends have made a wish for you."

Lucia furrowed her eyebrows. "Wha—"

A flash of light appeared next to her as Apollo conjured up an object that made her grin from ear to ear. It was an electric guitar shaped like Apollo's lyre. A replica of the prototype from the junkyard just two years ago. Except this one was pure gold six-stringed with white stars decorated over the body and it was breathtaking to look at. "I've heard that you were pretty great on this when you were younger and decided it may be time for a bigger and better comeback. And when your friend Annabeth ends up rebuilding that amphitheater, you are welcome to come and perform for us. But you choose what you like kid. It's your voice you control what you want to do with it. I just hope you don't allow it to stay silent."

"It's...wow...d-does it have an amp.?" She cradled the guitar softly in her hands.

"It doesn't need one. You're the amp."

Lucia's smile widened, "Oh, right..."

He became giddy. "Before you go! there is one more thing!"

Lucia laughed at the next object he conjured. "Ray-bans?"

"Now we match!" He smiled, "We need a poem to celebrate. go on little star!"

"Uh—"

"That's enough!" Zeus begged, "To your place please!"

Lucia was almost grateful to Zeus, as grateful as she could be after he almost let her die. She bowed to her father one last time before walking back to her spot.

"A princess and a rockstar?" Percy gave her a crooked smile, "How much cooler can you get."

Her cheek's flushed, she looked away. The gorgeous Aphrodite caught her eye and winked. Which only made her skin burn hotter.

"Percy Jackson!" Poseidon announced. His name echoed around the chamber.

All talking died down. The room was silent except for the crackle of the hearth fire. Everyone's eyes were on him—all the gods, the demigods, the Cyclopes, the spirits. He walked into the middle of the throne room.

First, he bowed to Zeus. Then he knelt at his father's feet.

"Rise, my son," Poseidon said.

He stood uneasily.

"A great hero must be rewarded," Poseidon said. "Is there anyone here who would deny that my son is deserving?"

Lucia waited for someone to pipe up. The gods never agreed on anything, and many of them still didn't like him, but not a single one protested.

"The Council agrees," Zeus said. "Percy Jackson, you will have one gift from the gods."

He hesitated. "Any gift?"

Zeus nodded grimly. "I know what you will ask. The greatest gift of all. Yes, if you want it, it shall be yours. The gods have not bestowed this gift on a mortal hero in many centuries, but, Perseus Jackson—if you wish it—you shall be made a god. Immortal. Undying. You shall serve as your father's lieutenant for all time."

Lucia's heart sank. She felt Annabeth's hand slip into hers and squeeze in comfort, but not even that could calm her fears. She suddenly felt sick to her stomach.  Like the poison was still there roiling around, ready to destroy her heart and stop her breathing.

He stared at him, stunned. "Um...a god?"

Zeus rolled his eyes. "A dimwitted god, apparently. But yes. With the consensus of the entire Council, I can make you immortal. Then I will have to put up with you forever."

"Hmm," Ares mused. "That means I can smash him to a pulp as often as I want, and he'll just keep coming back for more. I like this idea."

"I approve as well," Athena said,

He glanced back. Lucia suddenly became really interested in the strings of her new guitar.

She did what she always did, what she had grown to hate. She pushed him away so it could be easier. He could decide without any influence and she wanted to grant him that after everything he'd gone through. Still, her face paled and she felt like once again something vital to her was being ripped away. She felt on the edge of a panic attack, she didn't want to lose him. She didn't want him to leave her...

Percy Jackson was her first friend, her first crush, her first real love... He was the only person to know every part of her. The good the bad the angry the jealous the hyperactive. He saw her at her very worst, at the lowest point of her existence and he still loved her. Through everything he believed in her. Through everything, he always ended up being there somehow. She always found him. He always found her. Simply thinking of a time when that would be over for good broke her heart into a million pieces. Even on the boat, as her body and mind were convinced she hated him, her heart longed for the next time she'd see him again.

She couldn't bear the thought of losing him forever. Not after everything. She finally knew what she wanted. Yet here was one of those things about to slip away. She wanted to say something, to tell him to refuse. She couldn't allow herself to be that selfish, she knew she had to be proud, had to be supportive. But every fiber in her being begged to tell him that she wanted him to stay.

She thought about the Three Fates, and the way she had seen her life flash by. He could avoid all that. No aging, no death, no funeral pyre, no shroud. He could be a teenager forever, in top condition, powerful, and immortal, serving his father in the seas, He could have power and eternal life.

Who could refuse that?

"No," He said.

Lucia's head snapped up, her eyes blown wide. A sigh fell from her lips and her tense shoulders relaxed. She hadn't even realized she was so wound up, but her sunken heart had soared at just one word.

The Council was silent. The gods frowned at each other like they must have misheard.

"No?" Zeus said. "You are . . . turning down our generous gift?"
There was a dangerous edge to his voice, like a thunderstorm about to erupt.

"I'm honored and everything," He said. "Don't get me wrong. It's just . . . I've got a lot of life left to live. I'd hate to peak in my sophomore year."

Lucia's hand fell to her mouth. She tried to keep her giggles at bay. She did not feel like being smited but it was hard to contain the joy that filled her from head to toe. He wasn't leaving. he wants to stay...

The gods were glaring at him, He looked back at Lucia and her eyes sparkled, the glow around her body became brighter. A gentle smile formed on his lips.

"I do want a gift, though," He said. "Do you promise to grant my wish?"

Zeus thought about this. "If it is within our power."

"It is," He said. "And it's not even difficult. But I need your promise on the River Styx."

"What?" Dionysus cried. "You don't trust us?"

"Someone once told me," Percy looked at Hades, "you should always get a solemn oath."

Hades shrugged. "Guilty."

"Very well!" Zeus growled. "In the name of the Council, we swear by the River Styx to grant your reasonable request as long as it is within our power."

The other gods muttered assent. Thunder boomed, shaking the throne room. The deal was made. "From now on, I want to you properly recognize the children of the gods," He said. "All the children . . .of all the gods."

A grin fell on Lucia's lips. She didn't think she could adore him any more, yet here he was proving her wrong.

The Olympians shifted uncomfortably.

"Percy," my father said, "what exactly do you mean?"

"Kronos couldn't have risen if it hadn't been for a lot of demigods who felt abandoned by their parents," He said. "They felt angry, resentful, and unloved, and they had a good reason."

Zeus's royal nostrils flared. "You dare accuse—"

"No more undetermined children," He said. "I want you to promise to claim your children—all your demigod children—by the time they turn thirteen. They won't be left out in the world on their own at the mercy of monsters. I want them claimed and brought to camp so they can be trained right, and survive."

"Now, wait a moment," Hephaestus said, but he was on a roll.

"And the minor gods," He said. "Nemesis, Hecate, Morpheus, Janus, Hebe-—they all deserve a general amnesty and a place at Camp Half-Blood. Their children shouldn't be ignored. Calypso and the other peaceful Titan-kind should be pardoned too. And Hades—"

"Are you calling me a minor god?" Hades bellowed.

"No, my lord," Percy said quickly. "But your children should not be left out. They should have a cabin at camp. Nico has proven that. No unclaimed demigods will be crammed into the Hermes cabin anymore, wondering who their parents are. They'll have their own cabins, for all the gods. And no more pact of the Big Three. That didn't work anyway. You've got to stop trying to get rid of powerful demigods. We're going to train them and accept them instead. All children of the gods will be welcome and treated with respect. That is my wish."

Zeus snorted. "Is that all?"

"Percy," Poseidon said, "you ask much. You presume much."

"I hold you to your oath," Percy said. "All of you."

A warmth filled Lucia. For once in a long time she felt like she could breathe without fear.

This is for you E.

He got a lot of steely looks. Strangely, it was Athena who spoke up: "The boy is correct. We have been unwise to ignore our children. It proved a strategic weakness in this war and almost caused our destruction. Percy Jackson, I have had my doubts about you, but perhaps"—she spoke as if the words had a sour taste—"perhaps I was mistaken. I move that we accept the boy's plan."

"Humph," Zeus said. "Being told what to do by a mere child. But I suppose . . ."

"All in favor," Hermes said.

All the gods raised their hands.

"Um, thanks," He said.

Lucia shook her head, she mumbled "Kelphead."

He turned, but before he could leave, Poseidon called, "Honor guard!"

Immediately the Cyclopes came forward and made two lines from the thrones to the door—an aisle for me to walk through. They came to attention.

"All hail, Perseus Jackson," Tyson said. "Hero of Olympus . . . and my big brother!"