The Sea Tyrant's Obsession (PJO x ROR) *18+* WTM/WTS Book 1

Waking Up (Edited 11/2/24)

Note: I changed Percy's aging timeline a few days ago for anyone who hadn't noticed.

(Present)

Percy's eyelids fluttered open to a dimly lit chamber, the air thick with a musty scent reminiscent of damp earth and ancient stone. For a moment, she lay still, disoriented as she tried to recall the last moments before everything faded to black.

"Where...?" she murmured, her voice a raspy whisper.

"You've finally awoken, my dear," a deep, soothing voice replied.

Percy turned her head slowly to see the familiar figure of Hades seated beside her, his elegant form partially obscured by shadows that seemed to breathe and flicker with life. He looked both regal and forbidding, his presence commanding yet reassuring.

"You no longer need to worry about any harm coming to you. You're safe here," he continued, his eyes reflecting an intensity that both comforted and unsettled her.

"Where am I?" she asked.

"In Helheim, my realm," the silver-haired god replied.

"Helheim?" Percy echoed.

"It is also known as the Underworld, or Hell."

"Why am I here? What happened? How long was I asleep?" She bombarded him with questions, her expression panicked.

"You were injured during your battle with Poseidon," Hades explained, his expression softening. "My brother—" He paused, a flash of anger crossing his face before he regained his composure. "Poseidon knocked you unconscious. Mother, Zeus, and I decided you could no longer stay in his domain. You needed healing, and it was decided my realm was the most convenient place for you to rest. You were only out for a day."

Percy sat up, the sheets of dark, rich fabric sliding from her shoulders. She rubbed her temples, trying to shake off the lingering disorientation. "I remember... fighting him. I thought I had a chance."

Hades leaned forward slightly, concern etched in his features. "You showed great courage, Percilla. It was not your fault he chose to fight dishonorably. The gods can be ruthless, especially when pride is involved."

"What happened to him?"

Hades chuckled, though the sound was devoid of amusement. "I confronted Poseidon for what he did to you. Fortunately, he lost to me, and I confined him to an island. My other brother, Adamas, has taken it upon himself to confront Poseidon further, and I assure you, Poseidon will think twice before making such a reckless choice again."

Percy blinked. "You have another brother named Adamas?"

Hades nodded. "Yes, the oldest of my younger brothers. He is the God of Conquest."

God of Conquest? Percy thought in confusion. I don't recall a god like that existing in my world. My dad would've told me if I had another uncle. So, instead of the Big Three, this world has a Big Four?

"He was eager to uphold family honor, albeit in his own explosive manner," Hades continued, a hint of fondness creeping into his voice. "But enough about my brothers. You need to focus on your recovery."

Percy took a deep breath. "I can't just stay here. I need to figure out a way to go back home. Everyone must be so worried about me, especially my mom."

Hades observed her closely, his gaze gentle but unwavering. "I understand, Percilla. I truly do," he replied, his voice warm and sympathetic. "It must be difficult to be separated from those you care about. To feel lost in a world you never asked to enter."

Percy felt a pang of relief at his words, finding a strange comfort in his understanding. For a moment, she even felt the weight of her longing lift, as if he'd somehow shouldered it with her.