Chương 70: Chapter 70
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Chapter 70- Some Godly meetings
AN: Beta'd by Basilisk
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The Throne room of Olympus was quiet. Quieter than it had been a mere second prior.
Hera's screams of protest; the despair clear within their notes. Athena's calm, surgical logic. Artemis's cutting threats and accusing eyes…
Everything was gone. Dismissed by their King.
The silence wasn't tense either, contrary to what I would've expected. You wouldn't ever guess the Greek God Ares was just thrown down the mountain to live as a mortal a couple minutes earlier. You wouldn't guess the Queen of Olympus was forcefully dismissed, her tears and wails falling on unhearing ears. You wouldn't guess a bunch of immortal deities, who'd been alive before Christianity was even a thing, were scolded by a thirteen-year-old in these very halls…
If anything, the silence felt companionable. Just two ancient beings hanging out with their junior.
Normally I would've been doing a happy little jig in my mind, taking perverse pleasure in the absence of those infuriating little cretinous godlings, who got sent away to their castles like children ordered to bed...
Unfortunately, that chance of pleasure was snatched away from my godly fingers as the last few words of my father's promise echoed in the room, leaving naught but a twitch in my eyes.
"But aren't gods not allowed to visit each other's realms?" I protested his commands, trying to reason, even as I predicted the birth of a new headache soon.
Zeus grunted. "You are unique in this regard, you know that. And so do they."
Now I couldn't hold back the scowl, my eyes glaring up at the King of Gods.
"Still, did you have to promise that?" I stressed, not bothering to keep the annoyance out of my voice. "Or do you actually believe I have even the slightest of desires to meet your blasted children again?"
It had been a truly irritating thing indeed; to just stand there as Zeus promised all the gods a meeting with me so they may have a chance to know their newest family member. Something I knew to be utter horseshit. He just did it to keep Athena from bitching about me further.
Of course, Zeus wouldn't admit that as he gave me a grim stare, lips pursing up in a frown, disapproval clear in his eyes. "They're your family, Mikael. Now more than ever. Bicker with them all you like, spit upon their face if it pleases you, but do not turn your back on them. It is they who shall stand by your side in this war. You need them as much as they need you."
"Right." I scoffed. "A war of their doing. And I have to go and gravel on my knees just to soothe their godly egos? Just so they don't stab me in the back? Some family I have."
The last words were spoken under my breath but the gods heard it all the same.
I knew I was pushing my father's limits, knew I was being far too ungrateful for the 'honor' he'd just showered upon me, but at this point I couldn't even bring myself to care. There were more important things currently underway than pleasing a bunch of arrogant nuisances.
And he doesn't seem to understand that.
Thankfully his reunion with the Bolt had managed to put Zeus in a good mood, for all he did was deepen his frown in response, the neatly trimmed beard on his face twitching fiercely.
It was a good thing my other audience could see the funny side of my ranting though, for the sudden howl of laughter that chased away the building tenseness before it could take hold was a welcome one.
The laugh was deep and rich, filling the entire throne room with its very presence. And it came from the God of Seas as he stood up in front of his massive sea-themed throne, banging his trident on the floor with a deep gong.
"You'd do better not to take him as Ares, brother." Poseidon said, the final notes of laughter dying down as he turned his sea green eyes to me. "The only thing you'll find is a sharp tongue and even sharper words it would seem."
The Trident in his hand suddenly changed into a chalice, which he raised up at me in acknowledgement, "To my Nephew's ascension.", nodding once before he drank from it deeply.
I returned his nod, suppressing the dark humor and Sally's naked image rising in my mind.
Maybe I ought to go and pay the pretty Milf a visit soon. She would surely want to thoroughly show her gratitude to me. Perhaps Poseidon would see the funny side here as well…
'Don't be an asshole.' I chided myself, closing my eyes briefly. 'He's being nice to you.'
And wasn't that surprising in itself. I never would've guessed him to be the friendly sort outta the whole godly bunch. Hephaestus had reasons to like me, as did Hermes, Apollo—shiver, shiver, shiver—and Aphrodite, who I wanted nothing to do with…then again, the only goddess I cared for was Hestia. All the others were disappointingly cunty.
Point remained that Poseidon looked to be the only one to like me without expecting anything in return. It would be wise to leave my petty one-sided dick measuring contest behind and form a positive relationship with him.
As I studied the King of Atlantis, I found myself wondering…'How the hell are both my uncles more likable than Zeus?'
It was quite ironic as well…to think there was a time I'd hated the both of them.
I turned my eyes back to my relatively disappointing father, who'd just finished taking a smaller, more human form—reducing to almost half of his previous height.
He beckoned me forward, even as his brother followed suit—shortening in length to match Mikael's stature.
"Your complaints have been taken into consideration, but we shall speak no more of this." Zeus said, his commanding authority shining even through his tired tone—unwilling to brook any further arguments. "This is one thing I cannot budge upon, Mikael. As the new god of Olympus, you must greet your family personally. They would want to know you though their prickly pride keeps them from admitting it so."
I snorted. You're one to talk.
"Not all of us." Poseidon said. "I, for one, am quite pleased to openly welcome you in our fold. You already prove yourself a better company than your brother. Though I must admit my reasons might also include what you bring along with you. The last few centuries have been long and boring; with your presence however, I suspect things won't stay quiet even should we wish it to."
Zeus glanced at his brother, eyes narrowing as he growled. "You would wish war upon us just to sate your boredom?"
Poseidon raised a brow, his smile tightening. "Cease your hypocrisy brother. We would've already been warring had your son not arrived on time. And all of it based on your false assumption that you were too prideful to take back. Let me have my fun, now that you've had yours."
Zeus turned to him fully, lightning crackling in his scowling eyes.
"Peace, Zeus." Poseidon raised a hand, though he looked completely undeterred. "You know what I mean. Things have never been this stirring since the destruction of Troy. Even the Fates find themselves restless. This war…it shall be unlike any. We will be actively participating, and not as some puppeteers working in the shadows. While I do not look forward to all the death and destruction heading our way, I cannot deny my excitement for the challenges to come."
I was reluctant to break the silent staring contest between the two powerhouses, but impatience forced my legs to move forth, the gigantic thrones now looming above us all. "Can we finish this quickly? I've got a lot of things to do."
Well...not quite a 'lot'. Aside from making Luke sing like a canary, the only thing I needed to do now was to rest and think. Rest and think deeply.
My mind was a second away from drowning out completely, the exhaustion of the last few days finally catching up to me. I hadn't gotten a lick of time to rest since having escaped from that blasted casino. And while my body was perfectly hale and willing to keep working, my mind was desperate for a measure of repose, to make sense of everything currently swirling in the back of my mind.
Thalia's upcoming rescue mission, the First Longinus, the Ascended being after my life, the incoming war, my new Tier 8 prowess, and the unexpected ascension as a true Olympian…no matter how many points of intelligence I may have, I needed time to process it all and make some necessary plans.
Time that Zeus didn't seem willing to give as he stared down his nose at me. "Things more important than planning for war?"
"Well…" I paused, knowing there was only one true answer but unwilling to give in easily. Finally, I acquiesced with a sigh. "Perhaps not."
Zeus didn't gloat in his victory. No, that would be quite unbecoming of him. Instead, he stepped forth and put his hands on my shoulder, smiling down proudly.
'Patronizingly.' A part of me corrected, slightly miffed.
"You've come far since we last met." The King of Gods declared, eyes grave but alight. "Not even a month prior, I might add. Yet, the power I sense within you may as well have belonged to my sisters. And while your strength may not match your power, I have no doubt in your ability to take Ares' seat. I'd doubted it at first, knowing your victory over him came through my Bolt—which I shan't lend you again, no matter how strong your intent gnaws at me—but your earlier display of power has vanished them all away. Disbelieving though it may sound, I'm beginning to think you might keep growing until you've surpassed all your siblings. You may just come to be known as the most powerful amongst my children."
His pride dimmed slightly, eyes gaining a more complicated texture. "Of course, there is the matter of your domain. Athena may be harsh but the words she spoke held…merit."
The miffed part, that was just starting to vanish now, came erupting back like a bursting volcano. "What."
The word was soft but my utter bafflement powered it enough for Zeus to understand clearly.
He grimaced. "While I do not agree with her idea, your domain is quite…unconventional, by the standards of gods."
"Unconventional." I echoed, letting just the barest of incredulity touch my tongue.
Calm and firm, his eyes refused to leave mine, for anything else would've been admitting uncertainty, or worse, defeat. But had it not been ill-suited for a king to do so, I convinced myself that Zeus would surely be flushing with shame right now.
He cleared his throat, pointedly refusing to look at the smirking Poseidon who quickly bounded over beside us.
"Ignore him, Nephew." The God of Seas said, laughter in his voice. "He still remembers the lesson delivered so long ago by the Christian God, and for a good reason. Let it not be said Nyx was the only being my brother tucked his tail against and ran. I fear your domain reminds him too much of that day and the incident."
The King's nostrils flared, eyes flashing as he gave the dirtiest glare to Poseidon. "You will keep your mouth shut, lest you find yourself missing it."
It was a command and threat loaded in one, promising painful things to anyone who goes against its Authority…
Poseidon laughed.
I joined him next.
If one needed an example of Zeus being a changed god, they need only see him now as he struggled not to fold his hand and sulk in the corner.
"Enough of this." The Father of Gods snapped finally, looking quite done with me and Poseidon as he stepped back. "There are matters to discuss yet, and being embroiled in petty mockery will do nothing but lose us time."
"Before that father," I stopped him. "Can I ask you to let Percy fly this once? I left him and my companions behind to deliver your bolt as fast as I can."
Zeus opened his mouth to argue—unconvinced by my 'It's because of you anyway' excuse—but I rode him over. "In return, I'm sure Lord Poseidon would let me traverse the Seas freely."
He closed his mouth shut, glancing at Poseidon.
"Please, brother." The God of Storms scoffed. "I would've let him either way, had he simply asked. I'm not as petty as you."
Zeus scowled. "Do not show me your false generosity. You may have tricked mother Rhea to like you more, but it would never work on me."
No…no this wasn't happening….
"Tricked, brother?" Poseidon raised a brow, snorting. "No, she simply liked me more because I never wagged my tongue at her in lust. Neither did I try to slip into her bed at night. And don't even try to use your 'I was young and scared of night' excuse! That may have worked for the first two centuries but you cannot fool me now!"
Oh for fucks sake…
Zeus' face darkened. "You have nerves lecturing me of lust, Poseidon. Need I remind you the women you've raped? The wives you forced yourself onto every time something ruined your mood? And don't you give me the 'I'm as unpredictable as the sea' excuse either."
Here we go…
Poseidon growled. "At least I know to love. At least there were women I cared for through the ages. You? All you have done is ruin lives."
"Do not speak to me of love!" Zeus bellowed. "For the proof of my love is standing right here beside us!"
I finally backed off with a sigh, unwilling and very much exasperated to get involved in what seemed like another rapidly igniting argument.
'Maybe I'll slip away if they start brawling…'
Which didn't seem that far-fetched as Poseidon gagged mockingly beside him. "Falling in love? You, brother? When was the last time you devoted yourself to a relationship?"
"You cannot bring up the past again! I'm a changed god now! And an even better King!"
"I've no intention to bring forth your past, Zeus. Need I remind you that your other daughter is a year older than Mikael? You couldn't even be faithful to the woman you supposedly loved, after spending decades trying to woo her?"
"I was devastated then!" Zeus thundered, eyes asking for understanding. "She'd rejected my advances after putting fifty years of sweat and ichor! She said she sees me as a friend! Do you know how it feels like, to be turned down after five decades of failed seduction!? I didn't know she'd change her mind at the last second like a fickle mortal woman! I was crushed and depressed. I needed relief!"
Hearing the gods was quickly giving me a brain tumor. I clenched my jaw, finding myself confused between rejoicing upon the rejection part and raging against the fickle part.
And that's not even considering Zeus did cheat on Gabriel! No matter what reason he gives.
Then again, did I have any rights to judge…?
Of course I did! For all my faults, I haven't actually betrayed anyone. The only ones I've wronged—husbands and boyfriends of my conquests—held not a lick of my loyalty, so what was there to betray?
While my brain tried making sense of the current mess, the two gods kept on with their silly battle of words with Poseidon looking down his nose at Zeus, deadpanned. "Your other son is two years younger than Mikael."
"That wasn't me!" Zeus cried. "I haven't touched a woman since Gabriel!"
Poseidon smirked like a Cheshire cat. "So you do admit it, don't you? You cannot control your other self as well as you'd have us believe. Certainly not as well as me. I, who'd suffered the most by the divide. I, whose image those bastards ruined completely. And yet, it is you who cannot control yourself."
Zeus growled. "You've no idea what you speak. I shall prove you wrong in all counts one by one. After this century, our millennia-long argument shall finally come to rest with me as the victor. And you better believe I've already started."
He glanced at me slyly, silent triumph bubbling in his sockets.
Poseidon grimaced, wrinkling his nose. "Is that all he is then? A chance for you to prove us all wrong? To show how caring and righteous you can be?"
My eyes twitched, the idea leaving a bitter taste in my mouth. Though it didn't feel as bitter as it should've been. My contempt for the gods—now extending towards Zeus—being simply too strong for self-pity.
"We're done with this." Zeus bit out firmly, a stubborn tilt to his face. "I have nothing to explain to you now. And if you may focus, we have a war to fight. I suggest you go and gather your armies. Send some envoys to Oceanus, promise him riches beyond belief...or whatever it is you weed chewing, sea gazing creatures love so much. He was neutral in the first war...I'd rather we keep it that way."
Poseidon huffed in answer, turning away, though not without giving me a wink. "You're welcome in my underwater kingdom anytime you like, Nephew. It is the least I could do for the service you've done for me. Though don't bring your old man. As you may have guessed, we don't quite get along well."
With that the God of Seas took his leave, becoming a graceful stream of water that glided back to his chair and disappeared within, leaving just the two of us behind in the ensuing silence.
"Well…" I clapped my hands, turning to Zeus. "These war talks have been very productive."
Zeus' face puckered up. "You need not rub it in. In fact, I urge you to forget everything that has happened here since your uncle opened his mouth."
"As you wish…father." I nodded seriously, barely keeping out a sneer. "I'll give my brain a thorough cleansing soon."
Zeus shook his head, muttering something inaudible. "In any case, there are things we must discuss before you leave."
He walked off and retook his mightier form again, taking a seat on his giant throne once more.
'What the fuck was the point of becoming shorter then?'
"You have duties as an Olympian, as you may have guessed." Zeus informed with a satisfied sigh as a bowl of cubed ambrosia suddenly came floating in front of him. "First one includes dealing with all the prayers and hopes that your worshippers may shower upon you. You are too young a god so I doubt you'd have any chance of exercising your Authority over mortals. The quickest way to increase your popularity is to give away boons to anyone you find interesting. And start whelping some demigods as well. I'm interested to see what they might inherit from you. But while your duties are important, your main focus should be on the war. And you already know what I require of you."
"I do." I nodded, before turning away, impatient to be done with the day. "Now if you'll excuse me, I have a fleece to retrieve first."
"You're a god of Olympus now, Mikael." Zeus called out, though he didn't sound as firm. "You cannot chase mortal equipment like a hero. Let the others go in your stead. You have new duties."
"Oh please," I scoffed. "It won't even take me a day." I stopped, hesitating a little. "Probably."
Zeus grumbled beneath his breath. "Fine. Take my blessings and go forth. But do not dawdle and quickly return. The world is about to change, and I would have you by my side when things eventually blow over completely."
"Oh, and did I forget? You may have Ares' palace for yourself now. It won't do for a god of Olympus to stay in a cabin."
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The world had darkened by the time I finally left Olympus' majestic walls; well…at least this part of the world. The air trembled with good cheer, a cacophony of laughter and celebration unique to Olympus. It may have looked strange to me at first, to see the people so carefree and blithe, as their world came close to eruption, yet it was now slowly coming to be a trait that defined the city.
I looked to the great sky, the twinkling stars slowly coming to grace the planet with their radiance, while Artemis dragged her moon chariot across the world.
It must've been an hour or three at most since my arrival on Olympus, and I had grave suspicions that my friends hadn't reached New York yet.
'How fast does an airplane fly again?' I frowned, trying to recall info from a life long past. 'A couple of Mach maybe?'
Even so, I should've probably picked them up from the airport before they could board and drop them to the camp. Hell, I could've even taken my sweet time with Luke before proceeding with Olympus business. The whole thing couldn't have taken more than a few seconds at most.
Yet, my incredible speed seemed to have slipped my mind when making the immediate plans.
A horribly silly mistake, one I usually wouldn't have done. But perhaps it was excusable for this one instance; Apart from my upcoming fight with Ares, I already had a lot on my mind, having driven through multiple states without a lick of rest only to get blasted in the face with all the Ascendant business.
'Well, now I know.'
Not wasting further time, I jumped into the air, quickly gliding down Mount Olympus to approach the city beneath.
Instantly however, I noticed a very peculiar phenomenon taking place the closer I got to the city. Whenever someone got a glimpse of my figure, their everlasting cheer as the people of Olympus would come to a momentary halt.
Slowly at first, but I soon got the attention of the entire city somehow. I could only blink in confusion as the laughter and merriment died a sudden death, the celebrations following suit next.
'What the fuck is this?' I stared wide-eyed as every citizen of Olympus seemed to stare at me. I smothered the urge to look behind my back—though I did not need to—just to clarify it truly was me they were giving their undivided attention to.
It was so jarring to see the city of gods without the constant cheer and merriment that I came to a halt in the sky, slowly floating down.
The people of Olympus, from Nymphs and Dryads to Deities and Minor gods, all gazed at me with something akin to...adoration.
Together, they lowered their heads and then lowered their knees.
All bowing in supplication and giving praise to 'Lord Mikael' and 'New Olympian'.
'Well…I can get used to this.'
Smiling, I waved at them grandly and the next instant they were back to their normal self. Their focus was still on me, and those who could fly quickly came up to touch my feet—prime amongst them the beautiful Aurae who tore apart my shoes to smother my naked feet between the softness of their breasts, sighing contently.
I laughed, wiggling my toes amidst their warmth. 'Weirdos.'
But Beautiful weirdos.
It was a shame my job wasn't done yet. I wouldn't mind being spoiled by a bunch of gorgeous deities who could put Megan Fox to shame.
'I'll have enough time for this later.' I consoled myself.
Hell, I'll probably come to live here soon.
With one last wave—that received a thunderous cheer; their hands waving back as they gave me their well wishes—I left the divine city of Olympus behind with a quick blast of speed. Earth zoomed past under me as I tore through the firmament, crossing the distance to Long Island with one mighty flap of my wings.
It was time to deal with a former friend.
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I arrived at the half-blood hill with a thunderous crack of air, the familiar forest gloom and woodsy fragrance welcoming my senses with open arms. Almost as if it were a magic of its own, the mental exhaustion that was hanging over my head like an executioner's axe drained out of me slowly, and I couldn't but smile a wide smile.
'Whatever Zeus may say...this place has been like a home to me. The least I could do is give it a proper farewell.'
With a whistle on my tongue and a saunter in my steps, I pressed on upon the hill.
But the moment I crossed Thalia's barrier however, I knew...something was amiss.
A war horn blaring across the forest might've been my first indication though it certainly wasn't the last. The clashing of steel, the raised voices and angry yells, but above all, Clarisse's calls for battle were the signs that warned me.
Something was definitely amiss.
'Gods fucking damn it. Couldn't I get at least a little peace?'
With a sigh, I leapt up, arriving in the middle of the camp without any warning, landing on the roof of one of the b. Frowning, I scanned the camp, the campfire and burning torches being enough to give me a clear view of the situation.
There was a civil war in motion.
On one side stood Luke and Clarisse, taking orders from a pale lanky boy, thinner than a stick, awkwardly holding a sword that was clearly not suited for him.
On the other side stood the rest of the camp, though none looked quite ready to clash with the other party. And it certainly wasn't due to intimation. While Hermes and Ares made up a large part of the camp's fighting force, they were still outnumbered four to one. Should they truly clash with bloodlust, they'd get slaughtered.
'Well, this is interesting.' I smiled slightly, relaxing back. 'An actual fight, without all the rules of capture the flag.'
A part of me was truly curious to see how such a fight would go. I wasn't overly worried about any of my friends dying really. I was fast enough to keep track of them all and do a few rescue missions should they come under harm. Worse comes to worse, I can just pop a couple of Ambrosia cubes down their throats; rotting as they were in my inventory.
"Halt!" Suddenly Chiron came cantering on the field. "Everyone stand down!"
'Oh he's gonna be playing the peace-maker.' I tsked as the centaur approached the lanky boy, talking to him gently as if calming an enraged hellhound.
I frowned for a brief moment, focusing on the lanky kid. Tall, with ugly freckles on his face and a crude tilt to his rotten teeth, the boy was far from the entity who I suspected him of being.
Donald Dickleson
Race: Demigod
Tier: 4
Level: 354
I snorted, though my amusement was drowned as understanding flashed in my eyes, realizing what could have happened here. Annabeth and Percy were still on the airplane somewhere, so this response certainly wasn't elicited by their news.
'Ares must've manipulated the tale to act like the wrong party. And with Luke's support, his words must've put the worms of doubt in the rest.'
Sighing, I stood up from my perch. It was a shame that I didn't get to see the mini war, but oh well.
"Time to deal with this bullshit." I muttered under my breath, before leaping up and landing beside Chiron like a flash of lightning. For others, it might as well have been teleportation.
"So what's this about Chiron?" I cheerily asked, my voice raised for the rest of the crowd.
Stunned, it took a long moment before I was recognized. Had it not been the wtf look on their faces, I would've felt insulted.
And then the whispers started, along with yells of 'Mikael!' and 'He's back!' and 'Where's Annabeth!?', 'did you really betray Ares!?'
I ignored the chatter, turning to greet Chiron who himself looked mightily relieved, releasing a huff, his tail swishing through the air. "An excellent entrance, I must say. Though I'm glad you've returned. I'm afraid our fallen friend here is not willing to listen."
"Y-you...!" The said boy trembled, eyes furious and teeth bared in a snarl. "When I'm done here, when I regain my powers...you will feel my wrath! Both of you will! All of you!"
I snorted, glancing at the crowd as the silence once again made itself known in the wake of his threat. Until...
"You're full of shit, Donald!" Came the yell from the opposite side.
"Who dares!" Ares blustered forward, looking pumped and rearing to go...until a sandal caught him straight to the noggin, staggering him backwards.
Gales of laughter spread through the opposite team while Ares cabin started banging their spears to the ground, calling for blood with great vigor...
Chuckling, I finally decided to put an end to the drama. It felt nice really, to be the sole big bad on the field, knowing you controlled the situation thoroughly, knowing yours was the highest Authority around.
Flexing the new limits of my power a little, I let my voice cut through the chatter like a hot knife through butter "Enough."
My Authority spread over the camp, bringing everyone to heel with no exceptions. But the true subject of my attention, the Ares and Hermes cabins, were forced to their knees as if lifting the weight of Atlas. Then, without prompting, the other side knelt as well, recognizing the power of a god. Even Ares himself didn't dare stand straight, teeth gritting as he bent over.
I took flight, levitating in mid-air to become visible to everyone. "There shall be no fighting today, sheathe your weapons. Those disappointed however, rest assured, the time of action is close at hand."
A few started to ask questions and I almost blasted them to pieces. Only the fact that they were my friends and their questions were sweetly innocent— ranging about my health to Annabeth and Percy's presence—kept me from putting them to the ground.
"I bring news to you all, be silent and pay heed." I started again, and they were smart enough to shut up. "The Titans are on the rise again, and we shall soon march to war. Ares and Luke have betrayed us to the enemy, helping in the rise of their leader, Kronos. As his just punishment, Ares was cast down from the Olympus by Zeus. But fear not...cause I'm here! You may now put your faith in me! Your new God of Olympus. And my first command to you is thus...Prepare for war."
"But first, sleep and rest, and gather your strength. Tomorrow will likely be a busy day for you all." With a wave, I bid them dismissal and they quickly straightened to their feet, scattering away after another bow to hold hushed conversations.
The Ares cabin however, stayed rooted to their spot until Clarisse came out of the group.
"Is it true?" She addressed the now mortal Ares, her voice broken and quiet.
Ares, thankfully, still retained a little bit of his honor as he gave a dismissive humpf. "A war will be good for us. Had you been my true daughter, you wouldn't have asked that."
A few tears trickled down Clarisse's face, her face twisting in a snarl. "You're a lying coward."
She spat, and then ran off, taking with her all her siblings as well.
I thought Ares would burst out in rage, but something akin to shame gripped his face for a brief moment, before it passed, and he simply hung his head in defeat.
The Hermes cabin had scattered already, but a few demigods made a circle around Luke, not to defend him, but to stop him from slipping away; astonishment and betrayal clear on their faces. Though some…some were clearly on his side, their acting poor and their desire clear to my senses.
I made a gentle fist of air and knocked them out cold without moving an inch.
"You there." I called out to one of the spectators who'd gathered to watch Luke's fate. "Pick up the trash and throw them in the basement. They're traitors and shall be treated as such."
The boys scrambled to obey me.
"It is done then." Chiron whispered beside me solemnly. "The Prophecy begins. If you have the time to spare, I would like a word with you Mi—ahh… Lord Mikael."
"Please, Chiron." I waved at him. "Mikael would do."
While it pleased me to hear the new title, it sounded way too awkward from the ancient Centaur's mouth.
Chiron bowed deeply. His eyes then went to Luke—who'd wasn't even been trying to slip away now—looking sad and troubled. "He has a difficult fate ahead, Mikael. I would ask for a softer hand. Hermes would appreciate it, if nothing else."
It was a great excuse for me to let a former friend live…but I wasn't in the mood to leave enemies alive.
"Death is the only fate for him, Chiron." A wave of my hand and strands of air wrapped him up like a present and delivered him beneath me. "Now, my traitorous friend, any last words?"
"I fear Fates work in mysterious ways, Mikael. It would be better not to force their hands and manipulate the events to our liking."
I ignored the Centaur's words. While wise, I did not want to accept the power of some mysterious 'dark hand behind the curtain' entities.
Luke thrashed against his bonds, helpless but unrelenting. Finally, he seemed to accept the futility and sagged down. "Are you sure you want to do this, Mikael?"
I tilted my head, raising a brow.
"You can still join Ophis." He stressed, now sounding desperate. "Leave these gods behind! What have they ever done for you? Everything you've achieved came from your own hardwork. You know how cruel the gods are, Mikael. Or have you forgotten Thalia already!?"
My chuckle was slow and dark. "Your attempts at manipulation leaves much to be desired, my friend."
"Mikael, I'm not—aagh!"
His words were cut off by my head-butt, which was powerful enough to blast his head back. Blood trickled down his lips and nose in a thick red stream, leaving him stunned and unable to respond for a few seconds.
"Anything else?" I asked, jostling the boy around.
His eyes fluttered open as he took a weak breath. "S-so be it."
The air grew heavy and tense all of a sudden, and I felt an unnatural pull trying to drag me forward.
"What…?" My bewilderment was answered in the next second as a black hole, of all things, opened up behind Luke, snatching his body out of my grasp as if an adult taking a child's candy.
My mind worked in an overdrive. Even though a part of me knew the power in front of me originated from a being unlike any I've ever faced, I couldn't let them win without trying.
'Kill!' I commanded my creation that was still hidden with Luke and just before the hole could devourer him entirely, a powerful blast tore him from limb to limb. Then the hole took him away, the bloody bits and all, and shut down in itself.
I looked around to confirm it hadn't just been a freakish dream, but the looks on Chiron and the spectators faces let me know they were thinking the same.
Sighing, I pushed myself straight, waving a hand through my long blonde hairs that were disturbed by the turbulent whirlwind. "That's enough entertainment for the night, I think. Everyone to bed; we will discuss this tomorrow."
But I had no idea what to discuss. I had no idea what had happened, and it made me cautious.
'Powerful I may be, I'm not the top dog in this world yet.'
Still, it was only a matter of time. Hopefully this war will shorten that time a lot.
After all, for the smart and powerful, Chaos was only a ladder.
And that became especially true for a Gamer.
-------------------------
The 'Luke situation' wasn't able to capture my mind for long. Whatever fate awaited the boy, he'd have to deal with it himself. The tiny part that had been hoping for my former friend to come back to his senses was now long gone to dust.
For me, the days following that incident could only be described as….weird.
Shocking though it may seem, the jumble of events of the previous day had made me forget to check the rewards for completing the last quests.
And when I finally did check it, on the following day…
[Quest Completed: Golden Retriever]–
Retrieve the Lightning Bolt
Rewards:
20 Level
Olympian Status
[Quest Completed: A Godly Deal]–
Objective: Humiliate the God of War Ares by the end of this decade.
Rewards:
20 Levels
Divine Tier Armor
All Divine Skills increased by 1
My mind was blown away completely.
40 freakin levels! Lesss goooo!
'Status'
Mikael
Age: 13
Race: God/Angel/Devil Hybrid
Tier: 8
Level: 744
Divine Power: 40,850,000/40,850,000
Holy Power: 40,850,000/40,850,000
Demonic Power: 40,850,000/40,850,000
Stamina: 37,200,000/37,200,000
Health: 38,200,000/38,200,000
Stats
Strength: 774 (+10)
Speed: 784
Dexterity: 774
Endurance: 744
Constitution: 764
Mental: 53 (+2)
Spirit: 817
Points: 20
I sighed in contentment. Life was good.
After confirming my rewards—and receiving a note from Hephaestus to be available in his Palace three days time from now—I decided the time to start preparing for my Fleece-retrieval quest has come.
Naturally, the first thing I did was to shift my belongings to the Palace of Ares, which—contrary to my expectations—wasn't actually empty.
Two skeletal warriors guarded the entrance to the palace, though they readily parted for me at the moment of my arrival. Yet, even as I entered, I knew I wasn't home. I knew the palace didn't belong to me.
There was just the slightest bit of unwelcoming aura present, an alien feeling that instinctively let me know that I was but a guest here.
It wasn't truly that surprising. Ares may have become a mortal now, but his divinity was still alive and waiting. And if Zeus was to be believed, these palaces were the seats of power for the Olympian gods. Should the Hall of Gods, along with these palaces, be thoroughly destroyed, it would weaken the Olympians drastically, enough to make it possible to permanently kill them.
So the gods shared a rather intimate connection with their palaces, and now I was intruding upon one.
Still, the unwelcoming aura couldn't hope to shake my will, nor deter me from using the palace for my needs. Though I definitely planned to change its décor, which was not to my liking in the slightest.
The walls, colored deep blood red, were covered with souvenirs that Ares had collected throughout his immortal life. Massive boar tusks and giant hide adorned the front porch, its pillars wrapped by a mile long snake with jaded green scales for skin.
Entering inside, I was greeted by a gaggle of beautiful nymphs, all scantily clad and fair-skinned, standing submissively to welcome their new master.
The one in the lead seemed colder than the rest. It became clearer still when the time to greet me came—her bow was just the slightest bit stiff, while her delicate hand clenched into a fist.
I grunted, raising an eyebrow at her. "Don't do anything foolish and I won't force you to share my bed. Do so, and I will replace the snake outside with your entrails."
In the following hours however, I realized I may have overestimated their loyalty to Ares, for the other Nymphs appeared overly enthusiastic in their worship of me. And my Authority over desire confirmed the legitimacy of their enthusiasm.
Most of them were already more loyal to me than Ares due to the simple fact that I was much better looking than he could ever hope to be. It wasn't anything shocking really. I've often found the Nymphs—and Immortals in general—to be unnaturally shallow in their wants and needs. A pretty face and a kind hand was enough to win most of them over, especially if the owner was powerful enough to force himself upon them anyway. The fact that I didn't start tearing their thin robes off like a crazed animal the moment my eyes fell upon their full breasts and buxom figure, seemed to have done a lot for my reputation.
Soon, the nymphs divided themselves quickly—without me ordering—to see to my needs to the best of their ability; one separated away to draw me a hot bath, the other taking my supplies, while the remaining ones gave me a more thorough house tour, carrying with them plates full of fruits and wine and seeing to my needs perfectly.
My excitement had gone through the roof when I found an acre-wide training ground in the back of the palace—though the Nymphs insisted I call it the courtyard.
I felt a little strange, honestly, for how easy it felt to change my residence. I'd always imagined myself missing the camp much more fiercely than I currently was. Yet, as I stood in the Palace's balcony—viewing the city of Olympus beneath me and breathing in the fresh magical air of the divine city—I couldn't help but feel a new kind of excitement pulp within my chest.
This was a new start for me, a new page of my journey. I felt content as I stood there—gazing across the beautiful city from high atop the mountain side—ready to face whatever new challenge my life would throw at me.
'A True God.' I chuckled slowly, feeling the slightest bit of awe.
There were very few beings who could hope to match the current me. If I went all out, using my abilities and skills wisely and to the best of their utility, I may very well be able to survive a fight against an Elder God.
My name now carried a weight and power with it, and every being in existence would be forced to acknowledge my might…except perhaps the Ascendant, but I wasn't overly concerned about them. From the little I'd swindled out of Zeus, this Ophis wouldn't be foolish enough to actually attack us itself. That would risk the attention of other Ascendants, and while it was said to be in a league of its own even then, it wouldn't be able to stand the power of multiple Ascendants.
And we Greeks had quite a few of our own overpowered bullshit entities; from Gaea and Tartarus to Nyx and Pontus. It would be foolish indeed to arouse them from whatever wool they were weaving.
Still, I didn't really care for their acknowledgement. Hell, I didn't care for anyone's acknowledgement. The only being whose opinions truly mattered to me was continents away…and perhaps even realms away.
Whatever the case though, I was content knowing that I'd finally surpassed Gabriel. No longer would I be a useless burden on her shoulders. When we finally met again—after I killed Beelzebub and freed her, of course—it would be me taking care of her instead.
Sighing, I shook my head, leaving the balcony to go back inside.
It was a real shame that I didn't have time to truly start exploring the castle or my new surroundings, especially now that I was planning to live in Olympus…
Unfortunately, one doesn't dismiss a meeting with the gods, and I wanted to be done with the foolish task as soon as I possibly could.
'It's time to go greet my fellow Olympians.'
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