Chapter 17: Hera's past/The Nest/Fate

Disclaimer: I do not own Percy Jackson

A/N: Hello everyone! Welcome to the Percy Jackson show, our host Drama. Our guests of the night are Tragedy! Suspense! And Secrets! Hope you can all stick around for our great show tonight and I hope you all enjoy to your fullest! Also how yall think Im doing so far with the new story?

LAST TIME:

"Mmmmm… so loud." Finally the last people in the house decided to rise from their sleep as a half awake Zora and Ryder slowly walked out from behind Hestia and Hera. They were both in their pajamas and looked like little zombies, Zora currently clenched onto her plush shark in one hand while Ryder held the back of her shark tail. Then due to her sleepy state Zora reached up and grabbed Hera's pants and gave a small tug to them as Hera's eyes went wide.

"Mommy food." Zora said, tugging Hera's suit again, as Hera froze. I froze as well. Hera knew about our children but had never seen them, I had completely forgotten about that fact. It didn't take a genius to put numbers together and see their physical age did not align with their birth year. It was very obvious the two had massive amounts of godly blood in them, something Zeus would not be too keen on. The room grew tense as the queen of the gods remained still.

"H-Hera." Hestia suddenly said as Hera remained frozen as Zora kept tugging forward on her pants.

"Mommy food, i'm hungry." Zora said as Hera suddenly unfroze as a loving smile suddenly broke through her lips as she patted Zora's head.

"Of course, let's get something to eat." Hera said as Zora didn't even notice the difference in voice as she gave a nod as Hera began to walk forward towards the kitchen table. This was going to be a long breakfast.

NOW:

THIRD PERSON POV:

"Zora, use your utensils properly." Zoe huffed a little causing Zora to freeze as she was about to eat a full pancake off her fork. Her eyes locked with her mother's as she slowly put it down on her plate and began to use her butterknife to cut it.

"Good girl, sorry about that Hera. I don't know where these two get their terrible manners from." Zoe sighed but then shot a glare at Percy as he was also about to eat a full pancake off his fork. Quickly doing the same as his daughter he put it down and cut it into a bit sized piece, Zoe just kept her eyes on him as he continued eating. Hera just laughed a bit at the scene as she ate some of her own breakfasts.

"It is fine, no need to worry. They are just children, they are learning." She said with a smile as Zoe gave a small smile in return. However after that only the sound of eating was heard as an awkward silence filled the air. Nobody knew what to say, especially in the presence of children.

"So about Zora and Ryder…" Hestia said as Hera shook her head as she finished chewing.

"No need to worry, their secret is safe with me. In a few years I'm sure you can introduce them and it would be more understandable about their growth. If you are still worried I can swear an oath." Hera said in a matter of fact tone as Hestia gave her a sweet smile as Hera did the same.

"Why would it be safe with you? You are married to… Zeus after all." Artemis said as Hera suddenly paused as her soft brown eyes looked up at the silver ones looking at her. Hera only chuckled for a second as she wiped her mouth and put on a slightly frustrated face.

"Do you think I am just an extension of him? That I do all of his bidding and tell him everything I see?" Hera asked her in a slightly confused and disappointed voice as Artemis just met her gaze. Artemis however couldn't keep the gaze as she looked away as Hera's heart inwardly clenched a bit. Was she just an extension of her unfaithful husband and nothing else in other's eyes?

'You used to be.' Suddenly Juno spoke in Hera's mind as Hera paid her other half no mind.

"Sister…" Hestia could only speak in a soft tone as Hera gave her a glance as she gave another sigh.

"It's fine… I assure you Artemis, I am not like that. At least not anymore, Zeus will not hear anything about Zora and Ryder from me. If he is to find out it will be through other means, I swear this on my very essence." Hera said in a soft tone as a soft glow covered her as everyone's eyes went wide.

"H-Hera!" Hestia sputtered out as she tried to stop her but a glow began to surround Hera, the glow binding her to her word as she opened her eyes and gave a smile.

"Pretty!" Zora shouted happily as Ryder nodded in agreement, Hera's smile just widened in turn as she gave the children a happy smile.

"T-Thank you Hera it means so much to us. We just hope we don't get you in trouble because of it." Zoe said as Hera gave a short laugh.

"Please Perseus is already the cause of so much trouble as is. I don't think hiding the fact your two children have a bit higher amount of godly blood is too much. Besides, they are adorable children and they have done nothing to deserve such things, just think of it as a favor if you are truly worried." Hera said with a small sigh as she seemed to admire the two children before her. Percy by the side just gave a slow nod as he had a slowly changing perception of the goddess before him.

"I-I'm sorry for my assumption." Artemis suddenly said as she twirl her fingers together, her gaze to the side as her cheeks flushed a golden color. Hera inwardly felt her heart rate increase a bit seeing the adorable state of Artemis but kept her face straight.

"It is fine, if it were a thousand years ago you would have been correct. Seems times change and I cannot be caught in my old ways. The way of the world is changing, I must do so with it." Hera said as Artemis gave a nod as did a smiling Zoe. Her trust in the goddess only grew as she tried to think of a way to thank her.

"What are you guys talking about?" Zora suddenly asked as she looked around the room at everyone as Zoe gave her a brilliant smile.

"We are just talking about you two. She was just making sure you two were nice and safe from the big bad thunderstorm man in the sky." Zoe said as Hera suddenly snorted as she held back her laughter at the nickname as Zora and Ryder showed a sour face at his name.

"I don't like him! Daddy says he smells like farts!"

"Smelly."

"I'll bite him if he tries to hurt us!"

"I'll punch him."

"You two enough." Hestia said in an exasperated voice as Zora and Ryder quit talking and went back to eating, she then glanced at Hera only to find the goddess with a hand over her mouth trying to hold back her laughter as hard as she could.

"Farts… really?" Artemis asked Percy as she tried to sound serious, but her trembling lips forcing down a smile betrayed her.

"Smelly farts actually.." Percy said as Hera finally lost it as did Artemis as the two goddesses began laughing as hard as they could. Their melodious laughter filled the room as the others in the room smiled and laughed as well. Soon everyone managed to regain their cool as Artemis wiped tears from her tears from her eyes from laughing too hard.

"Oh gosh I needed that." Hera and Artemis said at the same time as they glanced at one another and gave another giggle.

"So… Percy." Artemis said as her eyes turned a bit serious as he froze and gave a nervous smile.

"Could you possibly take Zora and Ryder for a walk? I need to talk to the girls about what is going on with you and them. I feel that it isn't a conversation suitable for children." Artemis said as Percy didn't respond before looking at Zoe and Hestia as both of them shared a glance and nodded.

"We will be fine. Go ahead and take them for a walk, besides exercise after a meal is always good." Zoe said as Percy nodded as Hera gave a nod seeing the situation change and stood up.

"Oh no you don't." Hestia said as Hera was suddenly pulled down back into her seat as she gave a confused look at Hestia.

"Hestia I am sure I don't need to partake in such a sensitive conversation." Hera said as Hestia shook her head and held her in place.

"It is fine, we have already talked and I am sure Artemis will want your input as well about the situation. Plus me and Zoe can also explain our situation more but you will need to swear an oath. Also… we need to talk about what you told me as well. I'm worried about you." Hestia said as Hera froze as Zoe and Artemis and even Percy gave a curious look.

"I-I'm fine…" Hera said but the look in her sister's cinder eyes made her suddenly feel seen through. Her fists slowly tightened as Hera remained seated as Hestia gave her a soft smile.

"Hera…"

"Okay… I'll stay."

"Thank you sister." Hestia said in a relieved tone as Hera's hand was suddenly in hers as she gave her hand a tight squeeze.

"Percy, you may want to leave for a few hours. It is going to take us a while to talk." Hestia said as both Zoe and Artemis gave a nod as well.

"Okay. Just shoot me an IM when you're all done or want me back." Percy said as he ushered the kids to go get changed and cleaned up. He then turned to Zoe and Hestia and shared a short kiss with each as he then headed to the master bedroom to get ready.

LINEBREAK:

LOCATION: The nest

Zora and Ryder happily ran through the white door into the nest as Percy followed behind them and stepped off the platform in the center of the courtyard which acted as the entry and exit point. Zora now wore a blue sundress that let her tail wag about happily as Ryder wore a shirt with a dinosaur on it and shorts. The two happily ran into the courtyard/flower garden in front of the massive mansion. Percy just looked at them as they played tag with one another, just then he glanced to the side to see several people tending to the garden as they looked up at him.

"Lord!" Suddenly a voice filled his ears as he turned to see a smiling woman quickly running up to him. Her attire was that of a gardener as a large straw hat covered her head and a pair of overalls covered the rest of her body as well as a long sleeve shirt.

"Lissa… How is the mansion?" Percy asked as she gave a brilliant smile and suddenly gave him a bow as Percy pursed his lips a little.

"The mansion is good! We are just getting to some spring cleaning right now. Allow me to fetch the priestess, she has a few questions about the twins that arrived yesterday." She said as she finished her bow as Percy tried to say something but she was gone like a breeze as he gave a sigh.

"Princess! Prince!" Suddenly childish yells sounded as Percy turned to see several children running over to Zora and Ryder as the twins stopped playing tag.

"My name is Zora, get it right Timmy!" Zora said as a child nodded.

"Princess Zora!"

"..." Zora however seemed to enjoy this title just as much as Ryder seemed to hide behind his sister as the children all crowded around them. Obviously very excited by their arrival, it had been a minute since Percy had brought them into the nest and it seemed the other children hadn't forgotten them yet. Princess though? Another sigh left his lips as she continued to wait.

"Princess Zora and Prince Ryder it is! I now declare a game of hide and seek to begin!" She claimed as the children cheered.

"Ryder! Count to 100!" She said pointing at her startled brother as she giggled and screamed in enjoyment as everyone did the same as they all rapidly spread out as Ryder was left stunned and alone.

'Good luck son.' Percy only sent his prayers to him as Ryder quickly closed his eyes and started to count. Then Lissa and another woman quickly approached him as he looked at the other women in question. She was wearing a white robe with red threads on its seams and black ancient greek designs on its sleeves and bottom. On her head was also white wimple that covered her hair and gave her a very official look. She appeared to be in her mid 20's and was fairly attractive but sadly a large scar ran over her right eye cutting off its vision forever.

"Cammy, it has been a minute." Percy said as Cammy, his old babysitter and daughter of Aphrodite gave a brilliant smile.

"Lord Percy."

"Please just call me Percy." He said with a sigh as Cammy shook her head in protest.

"You own this land and thus you are its lord, I will call you as such." She said as she stood back up as she sent Heather off to finish her duties as Percy just met Cammy's stare.

"You are by far the most persistent person I have ever met." He said as Cammy gave a brilliant smile in return.

"If you will follow me I will lead you to the twins." She said happily as Percy nodded as the two began to walk towards the mansion as they passed dozens of people. Each of them gave him an almost fanatic gaze as he occasionally waved at them as they smiled and nodded. All of these people were ones that Percy saved over the course of his two years as the ranger of Olympus.

About 600 people currently lived in the nest, be it demigods, various nymphs, legacies, and even clear sighted mortals. They all permanently lived in the nest 365 days a year, since the time function was no longer working he didn't mind using it in such a way. He didn't quite remember how it began, all he could remember was the crying face of a child. Then begging to be taken away from this terrible world full of monsters, thus he brought them here and from there it started.

About 90% of them he met while he traveled, several full families, stray orphans, to even a group of different types of nymphs. Some were ones that gods requested to be saved that had *died* before he could get to them. Each was told a story of his origin as the son of Chaos and the space itself and how it was connected to him. The nest actually grew alongside Percy, as he grew stronger so did its total size.

If they agreed to stay they would live here forever without worry. If they didn't want to stay here that was fine, Percy would in turn alter or erase their memories using the mist, after that they would be delivered to where they requested or where they needed to be. With all that said, anyone; be it Roman, Greek, and even others they were all welcome here. Because the size had grown so much though he was forced to put stationary teleporting gates, mainly it was used for them to get the goods and supplies they wanted.

Because of this, it led to people swearing oaths on his very name to not reveal any information about this place. Which led him to everyone who stayed here to swear on his name if they decided to stay here regardless. Which in turn led to his current predicament he was in.

After saving so many people and giving them a chance to live away from monsters and a full carefree life, some had started to worship him. When most found out he was the last remaining blood of Chaos, the creator of the universe, they were in awe. Thus a small religion had been born in the nest, with the combination of his bloodline and his heroic deeds he became a symbol of worship.

Percy had adamantly refused at first, telling them to disband and never do such a thing again. Sadly, it had already settled in and they continued, Percy actually sat down with them and talked about it. They explained that he was a symbol of hope to them, a light in a trying time, a person they could rely on, he was there when nobody else was. After hearing them out Percy caved a bit, so a priestess was appointed and rules were set.

He couldn't have this place getting out of hand and dangerous in here with sacrifices and other things, also that they could not force anyone to be a part of their religion and they agreed. Still Percy wasn't even 50% on board with everything going on.

"Also I've been meaning to talk to you, since the population has increased so much a second person was needed for our sermons. I was hoping to show him to you." Cammy said as Percy sighed but nodded.

"How are you by the way?" Percy asked as Cammy gave a soft sigh and rubbed her scar.

"I'm good but my scar still bugs me. The pain comes and goes on some nights. The ambrosia doesn't help much either. Worst is the nightmares of that night, images of the monsters still haunt me, thankfully you stopped them." Cammy said, giving Percy a soft smile as he seemed to grit his teeth.

"But I was too late regardless." He said as Cammy shook her head.

"I am alive and that is what counts."

"Still… hopefully when I obtain my domain for dreams I will be able to help you out."

"Thank you Lord Percy."

"Again with the lord? *Sigh* Anyways I spoke with my mom recently and she actually asked about you. Even wondered what you were up to." Percy said as Cammy's good eye went wide as a blush suddenly crossed her cheeks as she froze in place.

"S-Sally was?" Cammy stuttered out as Percy blinked in surprise at Cammy's reaction as she quickly coughed and turned her head to the side to regain herself.

"Are you okay? Is there something I should know?" Percy asked as Cammy just turned back to him and shook her head as she put on her normal smile.

"O-Of course not, I was just overcome with fond… memories I share with her is all. Nothing to worry about, though… if she is asking about me maybe a visit wouldn't hurt." She said with a smile as Percy just stared at her with curiosity.

"Alright… I guess just leave whenever you want. Just let the others know and use one of the permanent exits I set up. I'll give you a drachma for you to get in touch with her." Percy said as Cammy happily nodded. Percy on the other hand had no idea he just rekindled a long lost relationship, but that is for future Percy to find out.

LINEBREAK:

PERCY POV:

"Master." A familiar voice filled the air as I walked into the room Cammy followed behind me. Currently two identical twins sat facing one another while playing with some toys. Tia was currently laying beside them as her three tails started to jump around happily.

"Tia, sorry for the wait." I apologized as Tia shook her head as she glanced down at the two in front of her as they looked up at me.

"Hello, I am Percy. Nice to meet you two, I hope everyone has been nice." Percy said as they glanced at one another and then back at me as they nodded. Finally he was also able to get a good look at the 7 year old twins, both with shoulder length ponytails of sandy blonde hair and clear black eyes that held very little emotion.

"So Haley and Brittany, I don't know if anyone told you but you are the children of a goddess named Tyche." He said as he saw the two blink a few times and nod as he pursed his lips.

"Are you two familiar with what is going on?" He asked as they shook their heads.

"Hmm…"

"Master, they haven't spoken a single word since they arrived, I am afraid they are mute." Tia spoke as the two girls had no reaction to her words.

"Well… Your mother specifically asked me to save you and take you someplace safe, there are a few options. There is a place called Camp half blood in New York, it is a nice place run by the best centaur ever and a mildly grouchy god. There is also a women's only group called the hunters of Artemis, it is also run by a mildly grouchy goddess hehe. Their main camp is in Colorado and they are fun to be around." I explained as the two remained silent and seemed to be thinking.

Finally after a while two finally seemed to decide and nodded at one another as they both held up the number 2 with their fingers as I smiled.

"Excellent, the goddess is not there at the moment but I'm sure that my sister will get you settled in nicely." I said as they tilted their heads to the side as I realized my words.

"Right I forgot to mention, my sister is part of the hunt, Her name is Tracy. Feel free to bully her all you want. You have my permission to mess around with her." I said with a smile as the twins' lips gave the smallest of smiles as I nodded.

"Tia help them gather anything they might need, we are gonna ride on your back to get there. Cammy, who is this person you wanted me to meet?" I asked as Cammy was jolted out of her thoughts as she stared at the two girls as Tia slowly stood up and stretched her giant fox body.

"R-Right sorry, he is this way." She said as we left the room as I paused when the doors closed shut.

"Did you see it as well?" I asked as Cammy gave a tiny nod as did I.

"Good luck and bad luck, their powers feed off one another and negate one another. They will need special training in the hunters to control such powers." She said as I nodded, it appeared Tracy would have her hands full for the next several years with them.

"It seems fate is preparing itself." I said suddenly as I rubbed my chin as Cammy gave me a curious look.

"What do you mean Lord Percy?"

"Demigods with powers far beyond the norm being born in one generation. Don't you find it strange? You have a daughter of Zeus and a son of Jupiter, twins of tyche who control good and bad luck. You have Tracy who is a daughter of Apollo and has the most outstanding abilities I have ever seen. There is even Annabeth who is a literal walking supercomputer, even Zoe who has unlocked her powers from Atlas. Lastly, me an adopted son of Poseidon and Order as well as the true son of Chaos, all we are missing is some children of Hades and we have a full set." I said jokingly but Cammy's mouth just pursed together.

"I feel that you just jinxed yourself Lord." She said as my mouth twitched a bit.

"Well… maybe." I said as Cammy suddenly pulled out a book from her cloak and began to jot down information.

"What are you doing?" I asked her as she glanced up at me and finished writing in the book then quickly hid it in her cloak.

"Just jotting down another of your prophecies." She said as she quickly walked ahead as I felt a cold sweat drip down my back.

"W-Wait Cammy!" I quickly caught up to her surprisingly fast walking but as I was about to catch her we rounded a corner to find a simple looking 40 something year old man in similar attire to Cammy. He quickly noticed us as he grew a large smile and quickly hurried over as he then bowed when he got within range as Cammy motioned for him to raise his head.

"Lord Perseus! It is fantastic to meet you again." He said as I looked over at the man as I tried to remember his face, maybe he was in one of the groups I brought in? Finally a name clicked into place as I looked over appearance, his aging brown hair slightly wrinkled face with European hints and traces.

"Bradley, correct?" I asked as he happily nodded.

"Lord this is the man I mentioned who was going to take up the position of priest." Cammy said as I looked him over slowly, but just his smiling face. Something was off about it, I wasn't sure.

"How long have you been with the Nest?" I asked him as he seemed to think for a second.

"I believe it has been about one and half years sir."

"What jobs have you taken up while you have been here?"

"I have worked as a school teacher for the children, I focus on math and science."

"Any hobbies?"

"Well I was a football fan but I do enjoy bird watching as well and I have a few collections or rare items as well."

"Cammy, remind me to see if there is anything I can do about television for this place, also why did you want to become a priest?"

"I wanted to become one to share the vision and heroic tales of you Lord. There are far too many people for Priestess Cammy to talk to all by herself so I thought I would help." He finished as I just stared at him down as I gave a gentle sigh.

"Cammy…"

"Yes Lord Percy?"

"You have powers of charmspeak correct?"

"Yes I do."

"Start using it from now on." I said as my hand shot out and grabbed the face of Bradley as surprise overtook Cammy. I just looked at the screen in front of me, the information from the eyes of the creator has given me about Bradley

Individual information

Name: Bradley Gulf

Race: Demigod (godly half: Loki)

Height: 5'8"

Main Occupation: Teacher in the nest

Emotional status: Pride, greed, lust

Current thoughts: What's with all the questions, hurry up and accept me you fool, once you're done and gone then it will be my turn to run this place. With a few tweaks here and there everyone will bow to my will, nobody will be able to resist my rule, not even the women! I will steal everything right from under your nose!

"AHHH! Lord w-what are you doing!?" He screamed but as he tried to get away from my grip but it held strong to his face as he was forced down to his knees. In an instant pure white flames began to come alive from my palm and engulfed his face as he screamed in pain.

"L-Lord." Cammy stuttered out as I just stared at her as the man struggled in my grip as his flesh and skin began to burn. However, I never took my eyes off Cammy as she shivered in fright. The awful smell filled the air and the scene of him thrashing and hitting my arm was burned into her eye as sweat began to drip down from her face.

"Cammy." I said softly over the screams as her eye slowly left Bradley and turned to mine as I gave her an almost disappointed stare.

"People make mistakes…" At this point Bradley had stopped hitting my arm as the flames had fully charred his face and cooked his brain. He could only hang lifelessly from my grip as I suddenly squeezed my hand as a sickening crunch of bones and flesh sounded. Like crushing an egg my fingers sunk into his skull and made his head pop as gray matter and charred flesh burst from my grip. His now fully lifeless body slammed to the floor as I stared at my hand as flames reignited on it burning away the fluids and debris.

"But from now on, use your powers on anyone you want to initiate into a higher position." I said simply as Cammy suddenly dropped her knees and smashed her head to the ground and katowed towards me.

"I will do as you command my Lord! I will never make such a mistake again! Thank you for this pardon!" She nearly screamed as her body shook in fright, I sighed as I reached down and pulled her back up to a standing position. Her one eye showed both fear and respect of astronomical proportions.

"Please no katowing, I dislike this whole religion thing so much already. I am just trying to make it safe for you all, you didn't know and this has never happened before, but just be wary. Use your charmspeak to dig their motives out of them and you will judge if they are truly fit for the position." I said as Cammy hung her head down low and didn't meet my eyes as she nodded.

"Now I need to go find Zora and Ryder, I will be leaving here shortly with the twins. Have someone clean this up if you can, just make an announcement that he suffered from a heart attack or something. Also Cammy… take care of yourself." I said as I walked away leaving Cammy to herself as she gave me a deep bow.

THIRD PERSON POV:

"Priestess, you can stop bowing, he is gone." A whisper of a voice filled the hallway as Cammy still bowed her head in the direction of where Percy left from.

"I will continue to bow until I feel it is enough, my mistake nearly hurt the people of the nest. I must pay for such actions."

"But the lord said you were pardoned."

"Enough… I will remain here for 3 days and nights and think about my actions. Close off the hallway and say it is under repair. Also dispose of this garbage." Cammy said as silence ruled the hallway. Suddenly several figures all began to appear from different places around the hallway, some coming from rooms, others walking out of shadows, and a few even the ceiling. Each dressed in ninja-like garb that shimmered a bit as it changed from colors of the hallway to pitch black, each with the symbol of the same vertical eye of Sauron that existed on Percy's hoodie.

"As you wish, priestess." He said giving a deep bow to Cammy who remained bowing the entire conversation.

"Also about our existence…" He mentioned but Cammy remained still as she seemed to think.

"I will tell the lord when he is more accepting of his religion, the will of the people he has saved will show him the true beauty of his ways. I feel with time he will understand, when he does I will explain everything to him. Including the chaos guards, until then build up your strength and wait for the call." She said as a tall man who wore a more extravagant ninja uniform nodded. With that they moved like the wind and soon the body was cleaned up and nobody but Cammy was left in the hallway.

"Someday you will understand Lord Percy, I promise. We just wish to give back to you in any way we can, this is the way we have found. I just hope you can forgive us when the time comes." Cammy said to herself as she remained bowing.

LINEBREAK:

THIRD PERSON POV:

"So that is the jist of what is currently happening with Zoe and myself. Before you shout Artemis, no, magic did not force me to love Percy. Like I said it is something called the river of love. We are soulmates, we are all meant for one another. Everything just fell… naturally into place." Hestia finished with a slight blush after a long and detailed explanation. (A/N: you all know already if you read the explanation on the river of love)

"..." Artemis currently sat still as her mind seemed to take in all the information as Hera also seemed to gain from it as well. From her sister's behavior over the last 2 years and her attachment to Percy. It all made much more sense now, at the same time she felt mildly jealous of her as well. To actually be with not 1 but 2 or our destined people who love you and everything about you… it was almost unfair. Even with all of those thoughts, she didn't voice her opinion on it.

"These… other partners, do you know who they actually are?" Artemis asked as Zoe paused and shook her head. She and Hestia had left out the part about the tattoo's and such, also the fact that Artemis was a possible harem candidate.

"As of yet we don't know, we don't even know how many people there will be." Zoe said as Artemis gave a frustrated look.

"To be in such a predicament-."

"It isn't a predicament, our minds are clear, our love… it's true. I have only love and affection for my little flame and seaweed brain." Zoe said as Hestia suddenly blushed so hard her neck turned red, her nickname Zoe had given her was just too embarrassing.

"Still…" Artemis said but seeing the look in Zoe's soft eyes made her hold back her words as she lightly bit her lip.

"Don't worry Artemis." Suddenly Hera said as Artemis gave her a look as she gazed at her sister and Zoe.

"What they have in genuine affection and love for one another, I can tell that much. Hestia has even been accepted as another mother for Zoe's children. I don't think we have anything to worry about." She said as Zoe and Hestia gave her a brilliant smile as Artemis heaved a sigh and slowly nodded.

"Okay fine, but I am still going to worry. If what you said is true, more and more women will be joining you two and Percy. I'm afraid… he will forget you two." Artemis said as Zoe had to hold back a small laugh for several reasons, but Hestia pinched her hand under the table to keep her quiet.

"You don't have to worry, that isn't the way the river of love works." Hestia said as Artemis crossed her arms.

"Even so, I will make sure to keep an eye on you two just in case." She continued as Hestia and Zoe exchanged a knowing glance.

"So you will monitor Percy's harem?" Hera suddenly asked as Artemis blushed as she realized what she just offered to do.

"O-Of course not! What I meant is… Just the two of them! That's right, I can't have Percy breaking one of my hunters hearts and a good friend's heart you know." She quickly covered for herself as Zoe and Hestia giggled as Artemis put on a crooked smile.

'Your younger self is kinda stupid sometimes, you know that?' Diana suddenly said to her as a golden blush touched her cheeks.

"Anyways moving on! Hestia, what did you want to talk to Hera about?" Artemis said as she gave a light cough as everyone turned to Hera and she blinked in confusion.

"What do you mean? I am fine." Hera said but Hestia shook her head.

"No you mentioned it before, about you and Zeus. Please… tell me… tell us. You are safe here, nobody will judge you." Hestia said as Hera suddenly bit her lip as her body shook a bit, her hands suddenly clenched into fists as well as her body shook a bit more. Her eyes then landed on a very concerned Hestia, Artemis, and Zoe as her lips began to tremble.

"I-I…" Hera tried to say something but her thoughts seemed to get tangled as she suddenly tears began to drip from her eyes as small sobs began to leave her mouth. With that Hera was suddenly wrapped up in a hug from Hestia as Zoe instantly got up from her seat and hugged her as well. Artemis was frozen in place at the sight of Hera breaking down, they never quite saw eye to eye on most things. Even several times they got into large arguments, but Artemis never felt she had a bad relationship with the goddess yet… she couldn't find the courage to go and comfort her.

"Artemis." Hestia motioned over as Artemis jumped a bit and nodded as she quickly walked over and gave the group a hug as Hera sobbed for several minutes.

"Lets go to the couch okay." Zoe said everyone got up and did just that, soon Hera was on a love seat with a blanket over her and tissues in hand as she blew her nose into one.

"Thank you." She said with a few sniffles as Hestia prepared some tea as Zoe sat down beside Artemis and waited for her to talk.

"It may not come to a surprise to you three but my marriage with Zeus isn't best." She in a matter of fact tone as everyone nodded.

"At first it was fine, we were in love. My domain of marriage and childbirth couldn't be happier. Yet after Ares was born… It was like I was nothing to him. He was infatuated with other goddesses or mortals, I tried to get his attention again by birthing Hebe like Athena does with her children. He adored her and cared for her but then she grew beautiful and I grew worried. I placed her as the cupbearer for Olympus, constantly my eyes were trained on her to make sure she was safe. Eventually she was married to Heracles… the one you are all too familiar with Miss. Nightshade."

"Then I tried again with Hephaestus… I don't know what went wrong but he was born lame. I could do nothing and yet when Zeus saw him… *sobs* H-He threw him off Mount Olympus. So many tales say it was I who did it but Hestia can say that it was Zues who did so. Yet when my son returned home he trapped me in a golden throne! In the end Dionysus was the one who convinced him to come back and free me. To this day I have tried to tell Hephaestus the truth but he just turns his ear another way."

"After that… I tried my best. I stuck by his side trying to please him trying to woo him. Yet I was just his queen and nothing more, so much time I stood by his side agreeing with his plans. Yet night after night he would be gone or in another womens chambers. My resentment for his children was only growing as well. Only on our anniversary would he come crawling back with lies and gifts, telling me I was the only one for him. I was dumb though, I ate it up and believed him. How many years it went on like this I cannot remember. Yet one night on our anniversary he showed up drunker than normal."

"I refused him several times, furious that he would even come to me in such a state on the day of our marriage. Yet he kept insisting and insisting that I bed him, yet I was done. I was fed up with him, then he… f-forced himself on me."

Hera finally paused as her eyes shone like a dead fish as tears streamed down her face. All the women present were wide eyed and filled with fury beyond imagination. Zoe's silver aura and tattoos began to spread, sparks of silver began to dance around her, the very air around Hestia began to steam. Yet Hera shook her head as the three women were taken aback by her.

"No need to get mad for me, it happened over a millenia ago. What is done is done, there is nothing that can change the past."

"I…" Hestia and Artemis tried to find words but none came out of her mouth as Hera gave them a faint smile.

"I thank you for your concern, it really does mean the world to me. But let me finish my story, after that… I moved out of his temple and closed my doors to him. He no longer even looks for me on our anniversary and as of late he seems to have forgotten completely about me. Only when I sit on that throne as Queen of Olympus do I matter to him. This is why I started to keep secrets from Zeus, no longer telling him every whisper or rumor that floated into my ears. I feel like I have been protecting those from his tyranny in this way, for I decided to be my own goddess for the first time in a millenia!"

"Also Hestia… this is why I was so concerned when you told me you were in love… I simply didn't want you to have the same type of relationship I had. I wish for no one to go through what I have been through." Hera finished as Hestia's eyes watered as well as she rushed over and hugged her younger sister as Artemis wiped a few tears from her eyes as well.

"Thank you Hera for telling us, it means more than you could ever know. Also thank you for your worries. I can assure you Percy is no man like Zeus." Hestia said through tears as Hera gave a soft smile as she continued to hug Hestia.

"Thank you all for listening, you are the first ones I have told any of this to. I feel infinitely lighter now, like a massive weight has been lifted off my shoulders. Also I am sorry if in the future I act like I have been, I unfortunately still need to keep up appearances." Hera said with a small chuckle as Hestia nodded. Artemis however sat wiping her tears with Zoe to the side in silence, allowing the sisters to comfort one another.

"Also about Percy, I trust you. The boy has already partially proved himself during the debate. Why, he even has Artemis's stamp of approval. Also as a true blood son of Chaos I have high hopes for his future, this upcoming war will be a true test to him." Hera said as Artemis rolled her eyes as everyone laughed a little bit.

"He is… alright." Artemis said as Zoe giggled.

"Such a high praise milady." Zoe teased as Artemis blushed a bit.

"He is still just a kid though! If he does anything you two!" Artemis threatened as all three broke out into laughter.

THIRD PERSON POV:

"Hmm?" Percy looked behind him and itched his ear as he gave a confused look.

"Master, is something wrong?" Tia asked, glancing up at him as he helped load all 4 children onto her back one at a time.

"No, I just thought I heard something, I guess the girls are just talking about me." He said with a chuckle as Tia gave him a strange look.

"How would talking about someone if they are not present alert them?" She asked as Percy just chuckled.

"Call it a sixth sense. Also can you make it into the hunters camp without being noticed?" He asked as Tia puffed out her chest in triumph.

"Of course I can! Have I not done it before?" She asked as he just looked at her with a complacent look on his face.

"I-I have only been seen twice! Also that was when I was 2 tails! I have 3 now, I am much swifter now." She said as Percy just chuckled and nodded his head. He then put his fingers to his mouth and let out a whistle as the shadows began to merge and soon Orthos stepped out of them, but instead of his massive form with two heads he appeared like a normal black mastiff with two different colored eyes.

"Master… Tia" He said in a gruff voice as Tia's tails began to swish happily about.

"It is good to see you again, Orthos." Tia said with a smile on her fox face.

"It's been 1 day…"

"Also your fur is so shiny in this form! What conditioner do you use?"

"Dirt…"

"Dirt? It must be a new brand, I haven't heard of before!"

"Daddy! Tia and Orthos are flirting." Ryder suddenly said as Tia's tails stopped instantly as she quit talking.

"Alrighty… Anyways Orthos give me a lift to Camp Half Blood I have stuff I need to do. Tia, come back with Zora and Ryder when you are done, we will see you at Camp Half Blood." Percy said as Tia gave a robotic nod. In an instant she seemed to turn into a gust of wind as she disappeared from sight. Orthos just glanced at her departure before he walked over to Percy, soon shadows began to merge and surround them. Then with a flicker of light the two were gone leaving an empty space.

LINEBREAK:

A few minutes later a shadow converged besides Thalia's tree as Percy slowly stepped out of the shadows. After he did, Orthos followed behind in his small form as stepped out and then sat down as Percy stretched a bit.

"Ahh camp, how I've missed this place." Percy said with a sigh as he admired Thalia's tree as it suddenly rustled a bit as if greeting him. Percy just gave a smile as he turned and faced camp as he sighed. He hadn't visited in probably about 6 months. He was sure a spirited blonde daughter of Athena would be furious at him.

"P-Percy?" A startled voice said as Percy turned to see a familiar centaur carrying a messenger bag and a backpack on his back as well as a large box in his arms.

"Chiron! How has it been? Looks like you need some help." Percy said as he approached him as Chiron laughed and set down the box. In an instant the two shared a short hug as Chiron looked him over.

"Unchanging as ever I see." He commented as Percy gave him a crooked smile.

"Asclepius said I should be good in another couple years and should start growing again. Also I couldn't say the same for you, your sideburns look more gray than usual." He said as Chiron heaved a great sigh.

"Children will age you faster than you realize it." He said as Percy gave a couple nods in complete understanding.

"Also I've been meaning to ask you about something. Zora unfortunately got kicked out of another school…" He started as Chiron raised an eyebrow, a loud laugh.

"It appears daughter like father, when you introduced her to me the first time I knew instantly she had your attitude." He said as Percy rubbed the back of his head.

"You aren't wrong. Anyways I was going to ask about schooling for them. If you have any time later, also…" But Percy stopped as he frowned as suddenly his ears threatened to pop. He then stared out over the ocean to find that a brewing storm quickly coming their way. At the same time thunder boomed in the sky as Percy frowned a bit.

"Let's take this inside, it seems they are having another argument." Chiron said as Percy nodded as he entered the barrier as Orthos quickly followed. Thankfully Orthos was given a pass to enter and exit the barrier as long as Percy was present. Quickly the two made it through the camp as rain began to pelt against the ground and wind began to pick up rapidly. Thankfully the storm only had minimal effects due to the barrier, but this still made Percy worry about the outside of it.

"Ahh Peter Johnson, back so soon? I figured it would be another 10 years before I saw you again." Suddenly a voice spoke as Percy and Chiron entered the big house as Percy glanced at the wine god. Orthos just glanced at the wine god in question and huffed a bit before sitting outside on the dry porch.

"Ah how I've missed your terrible nicknames Mr. D. Please just let them all out now while I still have the patience to entertain you." Percy said as Dionysus almost choked on his drink and gave Percy a small glare.

"Ohhh quiet the mouth on you Penny Jacobson"

"I've understood the only patience for children I have is for those I rescue and my own." Percy quipped back as an anger mark appeared on the gods forehead.

"I could turn you into a strawberry bush you know." He said back as Percy snorted.

"Please if you did I give it maybe 1 day before Artemis is at your door with her hunters. Demanding you turn me back or she will cast you to a savaged pack of jackalopes." He finished as Mr. D just stared at him in silence as Percy shared the same stare, but then a smile slowly cracked on their lips as they both gave a hearty laugh. They then shared a firm handshake as they both grinned ear to ear.

"It is good to see your jokes are still as funny as before! Haha! Oh Percy when this confinement of mine is over let us share a barrel of the most perfectly aged wine!" Mr. D said happily as Chiron seemed to recover from an almost heart attack.

"It sounds like a plan! But you may want to bring 2!" Percy retorted as the two laughed even harder.

"By the gods I feel a century older each time you two joke with one another.." He complained as Percy just patted him on the back.

"You just need to liven up is all!" He said as Chiron glanced at him and rolled his eyes.

"If I liven up any more I am afraid I will be like my cousins." He said as Percy grew curious, Chiron never mentioned his family. Mr. D interrupted him before he could ask him anything.

"So tell me boy, have you heard the news?" Dionysus asked as Percy raised an eyebrow as he found a chair and sat down.

"I haven't heard any news, something big happened?" Percy asked Dionysus gave a confused look towards him.

"Has Artemis told you nothing?" He asked Percy as he shrugged at the question. Chiron and the god then exchanged looks as they slowly turned back to the now confused Percy.

"Percy, Zeus's master bolt has gone missing. People believe Hades is the one who has taken it hoping to secure more power for himself. Olympus is on the brink of war." Chiron said as Percy's eyes went wide.

"When did this happen? Why was I not informed?" Percy asked as Mr. D gave a sigh as the two turned to him.

"It went missing during the winter solstice. My guess is that with all the tensions so high in Olympus we assumed someone would tell you eventually. I didn't expect it to take 5 months though. I also have a second guess, you were purposely left out because you are simply too strong. If a war does break out then whoevers side you are on would tip in the winning favor." He finished as Percy gave him an exasperated look.

"How are you guessing? You are on the council." He asked him as the god snorted.

"I am on the council, yes, but do I listen while I am there? Occasionally." He said as he sipped his coke as Percy's mouth dropped wide open.

"You're an idiot." Percy said as Mr. D shot him a look.

"I could say the same for you, you somehow missed 5 months of the worst storm of the century and you just passed it off as nothing?" He asked as Percy froze a bit and rubbed the back of his head.

"I-I have been busy. Anyways, what do we do? This war cannot happen, especially not right now. The titans are coming, infighting is exactly what we don't need right now." Percy said as both of them nodded.

"Well we were thinking of sending a quest out to retrieve the master bolt from Hades, we have a few candidates so far but nobody quite… strong enough to lead it." He said, eyeing Percy.

"Me? Hell no, no offense Hades if you're listening. Besides, Hades isn't the type to do that." Percy said as Chiron and Mr. D shared a look.

"Percy Hades might have shown you his good side but we have known him far longer than you, he is a deceitful, jealous, and scheming god. He has done many things in the past to not only tarnish Zeus's name but others as well. He was even the one who sent monsters after Thalia, Annabeth, and Luke. This is not below him to steal Zeus's master bolt." Chiron said as Percy furrowed his brow.

"Maybe so… but right when the titans are rising up? He is as smart as he is scheming, he just wouldn't do such a thing." Percy said as he began to ponder the possibilities as Chiron gave a soft sigh and patted Percy's shoulder.

"Sometimes the truth is right in front of you and you don't want to see it." He said as Percy closed his eyes and continued to think. Think of something, another possibility that could exist. His superhuman brain went into overdrive when suddenly the door of the big house was slammed open. Everyone turned to see a familiar face of a certain child of Athena as her wet hair whipped in the wind.

Her stormy gray eyes were full of worry as she found Chiron and Mr. D in an instant but then found Percy as her eye widened even further. She then just shook her head and rushed into the building as she quickly grabbed Chiron.

"There is someone fighting a Minotaur on the hill, they need help!" She yelled as thunder shook the building and lighting filled the sky.

A/N: Hope you all enjoyed the chapter to your fullest! I added a bit more stuff that I hope you enjoyed and will enjoy in the future! Als it's finally time to start the first book! Lets gooooooo! Also who might this mysterious third party be??? Let us find out next time on the great adventures of Percy Jackson and his trusty sidekick Orthos!

E/N: Oh boy is it who I think it is? Hehehe here we go with the real family drama. Zeus and Poseidon fighting? That is NOTHING! - Dex