IMPORTANT PLEASE READ: I have a question to ask all of you at the end of this chapter. Since this is the last one, I figured it's now or never. If I get 50 yes's, then I will do what I'm asking of y'all. I WILL count guest reviews. Each individual review counts as a yes vote. You can say no, just please don't be mean about it. (Also I wouldn't see the point in leaving a review saying no cuz you could just not review, but you'll see what I mean when you read the question.)

Also, fun fact Chapter 19 was the longest chapter of this story x.x It was… a lot to go through and edit haha. But I'm glad I got through it so I could write this chapter. And I guess none of you want to read the interview with the author thing I wrote, since no one left reviews answering my question, so I just won't post it. (Unless someone says they do after this is up… but we'll see.) And I finally realized that when I type hearts out on here (the less than symbol with a 3) only the 3 part shows up so if that's been confusing I'm so sorry :'( I would put emojis on here if I could.

I'd like to thank these accounts for their reviews and other contributions: DragonBookLoverKitkat913, Qwertywerido, fantasyfan12341234, DragonFairyfloss, ccarney, SwanGirl24, VOTAII, limitedfan, and merendinoemiliano.

I recommend listening to the "Happy Ending" score from The Little Mermaid (preferably on loop) while reading this chapter. The link will be on my profile if you need help finding it.

I've loved writing this story and am so glad y'all have stuck around to the end. In the almost three years I've been writing this we have survived many battles, in the fictional and real-world, so I'm so glad y'all are here to finish this. This has been my baby and I can't believe it's actually over. :')

Here's to the reboot we have coming for us.

One last time…

I hope you enjoy :)


Chapter 20

~ 7 years later ~

Mornings at the palace were always beautiful. It didn't matter if it was foggy or cloudless- the sky always remained bright. Calming. Mesmerizing.

Percy stepped onto the balcony of his bedroom, breathing in the salty sea air that blew in his face. This morning, thick sea fog covered the beach and docks, but the sky above it was a beautiful gradient of orange by the still-rising sun, blue towards the quickly vanishing stars. He'd already been up for over an hour, getting dressed and giving final orders to Reyna, Will, and other royal staff members.

He wanted to watch the morning grow bright before the busy day, hoping it would calm his pre-wedding nerves. Already, people moved about below him, prepping the ship for sail and hauling supplies on deck. Even with all the planning they'd done in the weeks leading up to today, there was still so much going on. He almost felt bad for wanting to get married- the cause of the chaos below him. Almost.

There was one wonderful reason why he didn't feel bad.

Annabeth came up to his side and handed him a cup of tea. "See anything special?" She took a sip of her own mug, pressing their shoulders together. Occasionally, she would jokingly ask him if he saw a giant octopus out in the water, and he'd reply with a snarky comment. But today, the joke never came, and he quickly decided that it was likely because she was just as nervous as him.

"Oh, you know." He held his cup up to his lips. "Just some staff walking around, carrying things. Some crates. Some barrels. People converting the ship we use to meet with the merpeople into a wedding ship…" He sipped his drink. "The usual."

"Mmmm. Yes, that sounds very usual." Percy looked over at her smile. In the now seven years he had known Annabeth, she'd barely changed. Her eyes still held that wisdom they always had, and her other facial features only grew enough to match their age. He himself wasn't much different. His hair still insisted on being unkempt, despite his frequent attempts to tame it. His mouth continued its flurry of sassy remarks, but that often got him in trouble when it came to formalities.

They may have been 24, but they were still very much the same people they had been when they first met. Only happier, now that they had each other.

"Is everything still on schedule?"

"Fortunately. As long as this fog clears by noon. But I happen to know a son of Poseidon, so I don't think that'll be an issue."

Percy laughed and leaned over, kissing her temple. "I'm sure his father would be happy to make the weather perfect."

A knock on their bedroom door called their attention. Leo, Calypso, and Hazel came in through the doorway, Leo holding a brush and comb in his hands, both women carrying baskets of makeup and hairstyling supplies.

Leo tapped the watch on his wrist. The goofy grin on his face hadn't changed. In fact, nothing else really had either. His hair was recently trimmed for the wedding, and he'd grown to keep up with his fiance's height, never quite getting taller than her. But other than that, he was the same Leo Valdez. "Ok, time's up, Your Majesties. Hair and makeup, let's go."

"Already?" Annabeth followed Percy back inside, shutting the balcony doors. "I'm not even done with my tea-"

"You can drink it while I take care of you, don't worry," Calypso said. She set her supplies on the vanity in the room. "It's not like you'll be going anywhere." She, like her friends, hadn't changed much since coming on land. Her hair was still long and caramel, her senses quick as ever.

When they were welcomed into the palace and grew accustomed to working as humans, she picked up too many talents for her friends to count. Helping Leo design in the forges, using the loom with the royal seamstresses, aiding Will's siblings in the gardens that produced part of the royal crop. Annabeth often expressed how, out of anyone that could have filled Piper's shoes, she was glad it was Calypso. "But Percy and Leo should probably head into the other room. Don't want to peek at the Princess' hair."

Hazel put her stuff down next to Calypso's baskets. "I'll be back soon to help- I need to take our dresses down to the boat before Will or Reyna scolds me. Leo- try your best to tame Percy's hair."

The Prince frowned, touching the top of his head. "Is it really that bad…"

His voice faded as Hazel left the room to finish her task. Most things that had already been assembled were being boarded onto the ship. Flower arrangements and banners were hefted up the ramp in loads. Chests and racks of clothing had already made their way on board, but the bridesmaid dresses were still inside the palace.

Hazel grabbed them and walked out of the castle, her powder blue dress on top of the pile in her arms. She quickly laid eyes on Frank, who stood by the ramp leading onto the ship, checking off supplies as they passed. She went up to her boyfriend's side and nodded at the clipboard in his hands. "I thought Will was doing that."

Frank smiled at her. Just as they'd predicted years ago, his archery skills had only improved on land. He quickly rose the ranks in the palace guard, becoming a knight by age 17, a commander by 21. For someone with improved precision skills, his face had remained the same kind, caring one Hazel had fallen for, though he'd lost a lot of the childlike roundness to it.

The biggest difference since they were teenagers- she'd grown just tall enough to pass his mouth. Sometimes it freaked her out, knowing that she had grown taller. But standing next to Frank always brought comfort, reminding her that no matter how much time passed, she'd still be able to look up at his face and see his smile.

"He got busy with the food," he said. "But don't worry- we have everything under control. That is, assuming you and Leo and Calypso have managed our bride and groom."

Hazel copied his grin. "Don't worry- we have everything under control." She gave him a wink and boarded the ship.

Over on the stone path that curved around the palace, Reyna stood with a group of guards, giving final orders for security measures that were to be taken when the ceremony started. Her title as the Royal Guard Trainer hadn't changed, but her duties seemed to have expanded over the years. She was top of the military, an elite that was only inferior when compared to the Princess herself. Not that she cared that she had so much power in the ranks- flashing it was never her style- but it made for a great display of authority whenever trainees stepped out of line.

Currently, she had ten knights and guards in front of her. An officer stood at each of her shoulders. Her purple cape flapped in the sea breeze behind her, her stance as straight and strong as ever. "Every guest boarding the ship is to be searched for weapons," she ordered. "Every bag checked, every present sent through to be scanned by King Poseidon himself. The rest of the guard should already be posted around the village. They will keep watch while we are gone."

She gestured to the ship. "Two of you can take the top of the ramp, the rest at the bottom searching the guests. Make sure you're in place an hour before we depart, at the latest. Then, during the ceremony, two will stay on the top deck, two will hold the doors open for the Princess to walk down the aisle, and the rest will line the back wall of the ship, facing the altar. You must stay extremely vigilant once the events start."

A smile suddenly pulled at her lips. "I will be the last to board. Until then, do whatever you can to help load the ship. Or sit and mingle on the dock, I don't care." She turned to walk away. "Officer Pollux will stand by the ramp and monitor you until the guests arrive."

Reyna stopped mid-step, the other officer right behind her. She turned and looked back at the soldiers, their faces shocked at her nonchalant tone. "Remember that today is a joyous occasion. Yes, security is of the utmost priority. But still try to enjoy yourselves." She started walking away again. "It is a royal wedding, after all."

The other officer fell into place next to her as she headed inside the palace. "Um… Reyna? If I may ask…"

She raised an eyebrow at him. "What is it, Henry?"

They stopped just inside the entrance, the large hallway connecting the main corridor to the private dock. The young man's brown hair was now cast in shadow, only illuminated by the sunlight seeping in through the open door. Reyna briefly checked the sword around her waist, waiting for him to continue speaking. "I supposed I'm just… surprised. I thought you would be more strict, given today's occasion."

She paused in adjusting her belt. "Are you questioning my judgment?"

"No, no! It's just… I've known you for a while now," he said. "Ever since I came to the kingdom four years ago, you've been so supportive of me. And as your friend I just… I think it's great that you're showing your, er-"

"Relaxed side?"

He smiled and tried for a shrug. "Yeah. Not that I think you're usually uptight or anything, I just-"

Reyna surprised him with a laugh. "Henry, there's nothing to worry about." She leaned in closer to him and brought her voice down to a whisper. "I just want to enjoy the day before I have to change into a dress."

His face softened at the comment. "I expect no less from you."

She nodded and reached out, patting his shoulder. "Now then, do me a favor?"

He suddenly stood up straighter, as if remembering he was an officer in the Royal Guard. "Of course."

"Show more of your relaxed side, too." She started down the hall, her grin growing on her face. "I rather like it."

Henry stood there for a long moment, wonderstruck, not noticing a fellow officer passing him on the way to the kitchen. Nico di Angelo weaved between people as he climbed the short flight of stairs to the chaotic room. He had barely reached the door when it flung open, three chefs holding fresh dishes in each of their hands. The girl in front jumped back slightly in surprise. "Officer Nico! I'm so sorry-"

"Don't be." Nico held the door open for them. "Hurry- before someone eats all of that. It smells too good to last." They each gave him a quick thank you as they rushed out of the room. "And be careful on the way down!"

He turned back to the kitchen and took in the scene. Inside there were a dozen other chefs and bakers, cutting fruit and arranging plates of endless dishes. He saw Will pacing in front of several finished trays, checking them one last time before sending them to the ship.

Nico went up to his side, staring over his shoulder at the colorful display. Will grabbed his arm. "What do you think?" Uncertainty coated his voice.

Nico scrunched his eyebrows. "Um… it looks delicious?" Will looked at him. "What? It does! You have enough food here to feed the entire village."

Will sighed. "That's a relief. The whole village, plus royal staff, plus any merpeople that actually want to try our food, plus out of kingdom guests like Magnus and Alex-"

"Are… you okay?"

"Of course." Nico gave him a look. "What? I am! Or… will be. Once everything is on board."

"Will…" Nico smiled and took his hands. They'd been dating for seven years, and Nico still couldn't believe he was lucky enough to have Will in his life. His faint freckles still dotted his nose bridge, and his eyes were still incredibly bright and blue. Nico remembered the day Will realized he had gained inches on him- how his lips had quirked into a frown and he placed his forehead on his, finding the lessened height difference strange.

Nico took in a deep breath, prompting his boyfriend to do the same. They exhaled. "You're doing amazing," he reassured him. "I promise."

Will nodded. "Thanks."

"Also you worry too much."

"I know." The only other differences with them now that they were older: they were very open, and very, very happy.

Nico looked around the room. "Where's the cake?"

"Already on the ship. I made sure it was the first thing that got finished." He looked back down at the plates. "I just wish food didn't have to be made fresh for stuff like this."

"Yes, well," Nico sighed. "Only the best. As always." He turned back to Will. "I came in to let you know that we leave in an hour and a half."

"Perfect. We're changing on the ship, right?"

"Unless you want to put your fancy pants on now and get sauce all over them." Will rolled his eyes but kept a smile. "But maybe fix your hair before we leave- your chef's hat is making it messy."

"I could always give it a quick cut- make it shorter like yours."

"Please don't- your curls look much better at medium length. And you know I only keep it shorter in the back because of the military-"

He laughed at him. "Yes, Nico. I know."

He turned to leave his boyfriend in the kitchen, but not before pulling him forward by the collar of his shirt and kissing him. Will ran a hand through Nico's hair as he pulled away. "You're still great." He walked back to the door. "But don't make me come back and give you another time check!"


The light of the sun didn't only stretch far on land. Under the water, it reached down and touched the depths, illuminating the already bright kingdom of Atlantica. The underwater palace was just as busy as the one above. It's occupants swam frantically through the halls, making sure everything was accounted for.

Prince Tyson was in his room, strapping his armor on. Poseidon had ordered everyone to dress up for the wedding- something rarely done among the merpeople. Capes and wraps tended to get in the way of underwater movement. But since the eldest Prince of Atlantica was getting married, the King wanted to emphasize the special occasion.

Tyson had changed the most out of all the royals and their friends. He'd finally grown into his size, his broad shoulders now fit for his age and height. His child-like face was now simply young, not having as much of the baby fat it used to. His body had also become stronger, years of helping in the forges and (finally) participating in the training program keeping his body fit.

He looked at himself in the mirror and gave his head a nod, satisfied with his armor. A knock came from his door and opened seconds later, Ella floating in the doorframe. "Tyson? Are you almost ready?"

He grinned and gestured to his outfit. "What do you think?" Ella herself was wearing more than usual; a red kelp skirt was tied around her waist, a scarlet shawl wrapped around her shoulders. Her frame was still fairly thin, but that didn't stop her from growing over the years just like her boyfriend.

She tilted her head at him for a moment, thinking, and then noticed the blue cape laying unworn on his bed. She took it and tied it around his shoulders, making sure nothing was crooked. "There. Now you're ready." She smiled up at him. "You look very handsome."

Tyson grabbed her hands and gave them a light squeeze before giving her a soft kiss on the cheek. "And you look very pretty."

She beamed at him. Another knock came from the door. This time it was pushed open by Grover and Juniper. Whenever asked, Grover and Juniper always admitted that they hadn't changed a lot since the incident with Gaea. The only difference between then and now was that they'd grown bigger in size, just like all of their friends.

They looked over at the other couple. "Everyone good?" Grover asked. "Poseidon wants us to start assembling in the courtyard."

"I think Jason and the others are already out there," Juniper said. "We don't wanna keep them waiting."

Tyson and Ella exchanged smiles before following the fish outside.

In the courtyard, Poseidon floated in front of several guards, talking to them about the formation for the swim up to the surface. Jason and Piper were next to his right shoulder, Thalia and Mellie by his left.

The Grace siblings had become leading figures in the training program after Percy and their friends had turned human, helping train new recruits and aiding Chiron and Hedge. Now, in their 20's, they were both commanders of the Royal Guard. Their current armor was crafted with elaborate and symbolic designs, showing their higher status among the warriors. Their statures were stoic as ever. They'd both grown taller with time, but Jason passed his sister at 18. Ever since, Thalia countered his height comments with, "Yes, but I'm still four years older than you."

Piper, many argued, had grown up to become the most beautiful citizen in Atlantica, though she never agreed with people when they said that. Becoming a mermaid had more than proven to be the best choice she'd ever made. Having all the pressures lifted from her family had given her the breathing room to do whatever she wanted. Singing with Jason and Thalia during peaceful gatherings was fun enough, but learning to fight and defend the kingdom was what gave her rushes. In those moments, side by side with her friends, it was as if nothing could stop them.

She became a commander two years after Jason and Thalia, allowing her to wear the same armor as them at the gathering in the courtyard. Her hair was currently cut to her shoulders, the top part pulled and tied at the back of her head. Her dagger was sheathed around her waist, much like Jason's sword. Thalia's spear was strapped across her back.

Mellie was scrolling over a list in her hands as more guests filled the area. Every now and then she glanced up and stared across the courtyard at her family, making sure they were okay. Mellie and Gleeson Hedge had been married for six years, their son Chuck three months away from turning five. He was a perfect mix of his parents- brown hair like his dad, a white tail like his mom, cautious yet adventurous with every passing day.

Hedge was letting him swim around with Tyson and Ella, his blue tail stiff as he watched his son intently. Both parents had gotten gray hairs from raising their son.

Poseidon suddenly hit the seafloor with his trident. His hair, too, had turned grayer, though he never willingly admitted it to anyone. "Good, everything seems to be in order." He turned to Mellie. "Where is Chiron?"

"He left his staff in the throne room. He should be here any-"

"Sire." Chiron crawled up to them, his staff still sturdy despite all the damage it'd taken over the years. He gave a quick bow to Poseidon. "I checked the guests on my way over. We're all set."

"Perfect." The King waved his trident to draw everyone's attention. "Positions, everyone! We don't want to be late!"

Mellie and Chiron drew up beside King Poseidon as he prepared to lead them all up to the surface. Tyson wasn't far behind with Ella, Grover, and Juniper. Hedge was right next to them, holding Chuck's hand. Thalia, Jason, and Piper followed as Commanders of the Royal Guard, then other soldiers behind them. The citizens of Atlantica trailed the rest.

Jason glanced over at Piper, a smile growing on his lips. The ring on her finger glinted as they rose up into the growing sunlight. He focused his eyes back on the surface. "Can we tell them today?"

Piper grinned at his words. "Yes. But after the ceremony. I don't want to distract from their big moment."

"Of course. It's not every day you get to go to your best friends' wedding."

Minutes later, they broke the water's surface.


Calypso held her breath as she gingerly placed Annabeth's tiara over her veil. She sighed with relief and stepped off the chair she was standing on, her peach-colored dress ruffling around her. "There." She and Hazel backed up to give her space to see herself in the mirror. The silver tiara had seven polished aquamarine gems embedded into it, completing her headpiece. Her train reached the floor and trailed several feet behind her, embroidered with a million intricate designs. Her veil was nearly translucent, but she preferred it that way. Her curly golden hair, which she'd left down, could still be seen. It would mean Percy could look down the aisle and immediately recognize her.

Her dress sleeves were puffed at the shoulders and ran the length of her arm. A semi-sweetheart neckline allowed for a necklace and a pair of earrings that matched her tiara. Her waistline dipped down in a design that created four points that topped her skirt, which fanned out in a wide circle. Her neckline, sleeves, waistline, and parting down her skirt were all outlined in a ribbon that matched the aquamarine gems on her jewelry.

Hazel went up to her side and put a hand on her arm. "I can't believe we're finally doing this. Seven years in the making…"

"Yeah." Annabeth sucked in a breath as Calypso handed her a bouquet of roses. "Feels like just yesterday we were battling a giant evil octopus that was trying to take over my future father-in-law's kingdom."

Calypso laughed. "I couldn't have said it better myself."

The doors to the dressing room opened. Reyna appeared with a satisfied look on her face, as if she had just succeeded in pulling off the most elaborate event of the decade. Her lavender gown matched Hazel and Calypso's layered skirts and neckline designs. "It's time, Your Majesty."

Annabeth took another deep breath as her friends helped her get situated behind the doors that led out to the lower deck. The ship's advanced mechanics allowed for a large deck to extend from deep within the vessel, easily allowing the merpeople to see the ceremony. She was forever grateful for Leo's ingenious brain.

Her friends gave her encouraging smiles and slipped outside. Then the music began to play, and the doors opened in front of her.

Poseidon had willed the waves to become impossibly still, benefiting both Annabeth's walk down the aisle and Hazel's seasickness. Annabeth's friends took up the front row on both sides, the women in their bridesmaid dresses and men in their respective ranking uniforms. The merpeople were lined up at the sides of the deck. The altar was very minimal, sitting at the top of a five-step platform with a podium and a white wicker archway. The wedding officiant was straight ahead of Annabeth. And to the Princess' right stood Percy.

The top of his uniform was a white tunic with gold buttons and ceremonial ropes. His navy blue trousers were lined with gold trim down the outside of his legs. Riptide was strapped around his waist, though this was more out of formality than actual function. His typically messy hair was the neatest anyone had ever seen it, even though it wasn't perfectly straight. His white-gloved hands were clenched at his sides, his only sign of nervousness. His face was in awe of Annabeth, and much like the first time he'd ever laid eyes on her, he had to remember how to breathe.

The rest of the ceremony went by in a blur. Before long, the Prince and Princess realized they were saying, "I do."

The officiate beamed at them. "I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."

Percy gripped Annabeth's fingers in his and pulled her close, kissing her in front of both their kingdoms. The crowd erupted into applause, and they laughed as hats and rice and flower petals were thrown into the air.

In front of the rows of humans, Festus (rust free from the bronze brought up by the merpeople) barked in excitement. Frank sniffled and buried his face in Hazel's sleeve, trying to hide his tears. Annabeth's cousin Magnus had to borrow a tissue from his partner, Alex, who rolled her eyes as he blew his nose, clapping loudly and smiling nonetheless. Rachel waved her arms next to Reyna, cheering the loudest out of all their friends. In the water, Grover jumped up excitedly, splashing Ella and Juniper on his way down. Percy waved happily in his direction.

The food was brought out minutes later, and the feast began without hesitation. Hundreds of plates and glasses were passed around. Tables were set up for the endless dishes that were brought out: sandwiches, sauteed vegetables, fruit displays, two roast hams. The six-tiered wedding cake had its own table. Will had spent days perfecting the color of the piped frosting linework to match the aquamarine gems fused into Annabeth's tiara. Sugar pearls lined the circular layers, a nod to Percy's original home in the sea. On the top tier stood two figures- a small Percy and Annabeth, their details down to a T.

Will, with the help of his siblings, cut into his masterpiece and passed it around to the guests. At one point he spotted Chiron on deck, sitting close to the spot where he was handing out dessert. He briefly made eye contact with the crab. He recalled the first time he met Chiron- in his kitchen when he was a teenager that didn't know any better. He smiled at his foolishness. He couldn't confirm it, but he swore he saw the crab smile back.

Nico came up to his side and put a hand on his shoulder. "You okay?"

"Wh- oh, yes. I am. I just-" Will stuck out his hand, ready to point out Chiron, but the crab had gotten up and was walking away, likely to find one of his former students. Will shook his head. "Nevermind. We can talk to your old friends later. For now, take this cake to Connor and Travis, would you? The sooner this gets done the sooner we can mingle." Nico grabbed the plates and headed off.

An hour later, Percy and Annabeth stood at the edge of the dock, talking to their friends in and out of the water. Then Piper and Jason made an announcement they weren't expecting.

"WHAT?!"

Piper raised her eyebrows, giving an anxious laugh. "Um, this isn't the reaction we expected-"

"You're engaged too?!" Leo shouted, almost too loudly.

Piper stopped. She glanced down at his and Calypso's hands, wondering how she hadn't noticed the rings before. "OH MY GODS-"

"Oh man, if I weren't in this uniform, I'd jump in the water and hug both of you."

Calypso closed her eyes. "Yes, please don't ruin your suit."

"I won't hesitate killing you, Valdez." Annabeth took a bite of her cake. "I don't care if it's my wedding day."

Percy gave his friends a watery smile. "I'm so happy for you, Bro!"

Jason smiled back at him. "Thanks, Bro!"

"Do you know when you're having the wedding?" Frank asked.

"Not sure yet," Piper said. "What about you two?"

"No, freaking, clue." Leo sat down on the deck. "But we've got all the time in the world."

Calypso shook her head at him. "We… I would like to be married to you." She sat next to him and put an elbow on his shoulder. "At some point."

"Touché."

Hazel suddenly gasped, putting a hand on Annabeth's arm. Her eyes were lit with excitement. "Annabeth- you haven't thrown your bouquet yet!"

Annabeth finished chewing and handed her plate to Percy. "Well, I guess I should do it now. Since we're talking about engagements." She grabbed the roses off the table she'd set them at and walked to a space farther away from the group.

Hazel gathered all the unengaged girls, both on land and in the water, and stood in the middle of the gathering crowd. Annabeth waited until they stilled. "Are you ready?" They cheered loudly, drawing the attention of the other guests. She turned her back to them, standing at the edge of the platform so that the humans and mermaids were split behind her. She looked straight ahead and saw Percy give her a thumbs up.

She grinned and tossed the flowers behind her. They flew through the air with more force than several girls had anticipated, soaring over the front of the crowd. Hazel jumped up and touched it with her hand, knocking it off its course.

Further away, Nico and Will sat at the edge of the dock, talking to Gleeson, Mellie, and Chuck. "You still make a mighty fine meal, Solace," Hedge was saying.

"Oh, come on." Will waved his hand. "You know I only make the best for my kingdom."

"You think this food is good?" Nico grinned. "You should have had the bundt cake he made last week. The smell alone-"

The bouquet of roses fell out of the air and hit his chest, rolling into his lap, successfully cutting the young man off. "What the-" he looked over at the mob of girls standing between his group and the Princess. Annabeth covered her mouth with her hand, trying to not burst out laughing.

The girls groaned and muttered a few "totally not fair"s before dispersing back into the party scene, Hazel and Annabeth the only ones still standing there.

His sister smiled. "Well, congrats, Bro."

Nico quickly put two and two together. "Oh, no, no. I-" He turned around and quickly spotted Reyna standing close behind him. It didn't look like she'd participated in the bouquet toss, because she was deep in conversation with Officer Henry. "Um- here, Reyna." He shoved the flowers at her. "You have these."

She stared at him with raised eyebrows for a few seconds, then took the bouquet, confused. "Um- thanks?" She turned back to Henry and shook her head. "Sometimes I don't even know." She shrugged. "It's better not to question it." He laughed.

Nico turned back to his boyfriend and the Hedge family. "Sorry- don't know why these things happen to me."

Will laughed and kissed his cheek. "Maybe I shouldn't wait for winter to ask Leo to make our engagement rings. I can always do that sooner."

"Will- oh my gods…"

They laughed again. Hours passed. Eventually, the food ran out and the sun reached the latter half of its afternoon journey. The humans were ushered into the ship as the staff came through and brought all the decorations, tables, and chairs inside, allowing the lower deck to retract back into the ship.

The newlyweds and their friends walked out onto the main deck, looking down at their friends one last time.

Percy made eye contact with his father and smiled at him. King Poseidon willed the waters to rise him up, bringing him in front of his son. Percy gave a small laugh and threw his arms around him. He'd talked to him earlier at the reception, but he was still in disbelief. His dad was here for him at his wedding. After years of tension and misunderstanding, they were in front of each other. Happy. The way it should be.

He pulled him closer. "I love you, Dad." On some level, it felt stupid to say. He would see him again for their next monthly meeting. But it also felt like the last time he would see him like this. Just a dad and his son. Not two royal family members. Not a human and a merman. Not two diplomats from different kingdoms. Just him and his dad.

He let go of him and blinked away sudden tears. Poseidon smiled down at him before glancing over his shoulder and his daughter-in-law. Annabeth gave him a curtsey that spoke a million words. He only needed to understand a few.

I love your son. And I'll take good care of him. I promise.

The King patted Percy's shoulder and sank back down into the water. Annabeth walked up to his side at the railing and gazed down at the merpeople. She put an arm around her husband as he slid one around her waist, his smile reflecting the feeling of saying a brief but real goodbye.

Poseidon waved his trident toward the clouds, creating their last parting gift. A rainbow shot across the sky, arching across the ship and landing somewhere in the distance. Then, as if on cue, the boat started moving back to shore.

Leo and the rest of their friends joined them at the railing. "We're all set, You're Majesties. New adventures await."

"New adventures?" Nico frowned. "I thought we were done adventuring."

Reyna leaned forward on her elbows. "We can hope that things stay quiet… But if they don't, we'll be ready."

In the water, many of the merpeople waved one last goodbye before diving back down to Atlantica. But their friends and family stayed above, watching as their ship moved away.

Tyson waved his arms. "Goodbye!"

"Don't have too much fun without us!" Thalia shouted.

Annabeth laughed, relaxing into Percy's side. Everything was at peace. And if it didn't stay that way, Reyna was right. They'd be ready.

"Do you guys remember that song we used to sing?" Calypso asked. "After we became human?"

Frank looked over at her. "The one Percy made back in Atlantica?"

"Oh! I know this one." Will grinned down at the waves. "Annabeth used to make me play it on the flute."

"Now we can walk-" Hazel started.

Calypso joined her. "Now we can run-"

"Now we can stay all day in the sun…" the rest of their friends chimed in, leaving Percy and Annabeth surprised at the sudden music.

Percy looked down at his wife, his eyes smiling as big as his mouth. His love of music had infected her not long after they'd gotten together, and it slowly spread among their group as the years went on. The song was their private reminder. Look how far they'd come, and how far they'd go. Just to be with each other.

"Just you and me…" Percy finally jumped in.

Annabeth grinned up at him. "And I can be…"

Their voices harmonized as they looked back out over the water. "...Part of your world."

They all waved back at the merpeople, and soon the others were too small to see. Annabeth kissed Percy as the boat took them back to their palace.

And they all lived happily ever after.


So… Sequel?

~Reader4ever1