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2024-05-24
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2025-02-09
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Taking care of the Protector

Summary:

In the midst of a War against Atlantis, Poseidon sacrifices his own well-being to protect his family and domain. Despite his resilience and stubbornness, the prolonged conflict leaves him exhausted and severely wounded. He tries to hide it in fear of his enemies using his weakened state to come after those he loves the most but, someone finds out and tries to help until things don't go as planned.

What started as a small injury unravels deep, consequences for the family.

ON HIATUS FOR NOW I got stuck so I'll rather focus on other things

Notes:

Je voulais absolument te l'offrir pour te remercier de ta gentillesse et de ton soutien <3
J'espère qu'elle te plaira!

Chapter 1

Chapter Text

When it came to his family, Poseidon took no chances. He would protect them no matter what. Even if it meant sacrificing his sleep and well-being. He hadn't slept since the war began. He was a god, so technically it wouldn't affect him as much as it would if he were a human. Still, as days became weeks and weeks became months, the war took its toll on the sea god.

Even though he was in his palace, Poseidon could still feel the sea as a pulse of energy flowing through him. The tides moved in time to the rhythm of his temper. One day he could be a destroyer, unleashing storms on whomever he felt deserved to feel his wrath. The next moment, he was a fierce protector, a softer version of himself, enjoying his children's laughter and his people's happiness.

The sea was the source of his power, and in return, he vowed to protect it at the cost of his own life.

He watched in silence as his beloved wife and children slept peacefully. Despite the faint sounds of battle that lingered on the horizon. They were the reason he stood even when his legs were on the verge of giving out at any moment. His hand gripped the handle of his trident as his legs trembled with exhaustion.

He catches himself and stands upright once more, trying to find a comfortable position. He pulls his shoulders back and stretches slightly. He doesn't realize that he's being watched from a distance.

Kymopoleia moves quietly so as not to wake her family, who are still asleep. And gently tries to approach her father, who is standing in the doorway of her room. She tries to hold back her breath as she sees the large wound on the side of his stomach oozing with ichor.

She moves swiftly and gets closer to him, trying to get a closer look. The wound seems pretty deep and recent. The young goddess’s brows furrowed trying to remember when her dad could have possibly gotten hurt like this.

As she approached him, she tried to not make too much sound to startle him as he kept staring at his surroundings. His stare softened when he felt a small hand touching his forearm, although the grip he had on his trident didn’t loosen.

His eyes met those of his youngest daughter. “Is everything okay little one?” He whispers, his voice seeming hoarser than usual.

“You’re injured, Dad.” She replied pointing at the wound, the golden hue of the ichor had now bled into his tunic. He grimaced slightly in pain when he turned to look at it. But he tried to downplay the severity of it to not make her worry over him. The last thing he needed was to worry Kym after they had made amends a few weeks ago.

“It’s nothing to worry about my little sea storm. I’ll be fine.’ He said. Not missing the way she didn’t make any move to go back to bed.

He sighed. Looking back at her, his eyes pleading silently, “Please keep this to yourself, I don’t need anyone to be worried about me or seeing me in this state.”

“Why don’t we get you checked by one of the healers?” She asked.

“Because,” He replied as he held his trident even more tightly than he had prior. “If they find out that I’m weakened, Kronos will try to attack and destroy everything I’ve created, including you.” He stared at her with fierce protectiveness.

She knew who “he” was, her father referred to Kronos this way, and he never actually said his name nor talked about him much.
“Why would he try to kill us? We don’t have as much power as you do anyway, we wouldn’t be much of a threat to him.”

Poseidon rubbed a hand over his face, he didn’t have time to go into details nor did he want to tell his daughter that coming after his children would cause him the most harm and his father knew.

He let out a sigh. “He knows that hurting my children will hurt me more than any wound or damage done to Atlantis.” He stops speaking and turns as he watches the rest of the family sleeping. “You and your siblings are my greatest weakness,” he admitted.

“As long as I’m able to stand, I’ll do anything to make sure you are safe.”

Kym bit her lip, she felt conflicted. She understood what he meant, but she couldn’t help but want to help him. At the same time, she understood the gravity of the situation but she wished Father would at least tell someone else.

"I promise not to tell, but could I at least attempt to see it?"

Poseidon hesitated for a few moments, he never thought he would have to rely on his daughter he vowed to protect for so long, “Alright”. He finally replied with resignation.

Kymopoleia smiled as she pulled him towards the bathroom that was adjacent to his room where they wouldn’t be disturbed.
Once inside the dimly lightened underwater cave-like area, she pulled a chair out for him and urged him to sit before he might fall and injure himself further.

“Sit here and remove your tunic.” She ordered him, deeply concerned as she took in the extent of her parent’s sickly appearance.

Being as exhausted as he was, Poseidon didn’t try to argue and complied with his youngest daughter, and so he followed her.

He gently removed the white tunic over his head, hissing in pain as he did, showing how much pain he was in.

Kymopoleia who was trying to fetch medical supplies turned at the sound. She had to keep herself from turning away. It looked really bad.

Poseidon’s vision was starting to falter dangerously as he felt himself get weaker. Technically he knew he couldn’t die, but depending on the weapon that was used, he could potentially end up in what humans would consider a coma or lose too much ichor for his body to be able to regenerate itself.

He saw his daughter standing close to him, he could hear her asking if he was okay. But he had trouble responding.

“Father?” Kym asked as she very gently tried to keep him awake.

Sweat started to form around his forehead and torso, and his face was becoming too pale. Kym tried the next best thing, she knelt in front of him and held his head with one hand so he wouldn’t hurt himself if he passed out.

While she used the other to wet a washcloth she had gotten earlier, to bring dab ironically water on his hot forehead, praying that it would help him stay conscious.

It did.

Poseidon’s eyes were half opened, and it took him a lot of strength to mutter one last thing to his daughter.

"K-Kym go find the nectar on the shelf in my room, it will help with the bleeding.”

As to not scare her into panic, he tried to smile despite the uncomfortable sensations.

“Okay, I’ll be back in two seconds, stay here, don’t try to move.” She said knowing he’ll probably won’t listen.

And as soon as he saw her shadow leave the room, Poseidon tried to grab the wet washcloth she left on his thigh and he tried to clean the gash but it was very painful, and he thought he was going to pass out.

As a last resort, he tried to use his water abilities to grab a needle and thread to sew back the wound on his side together, but the wave was too weak to do it. He didn’t want his daughter to see him like this. Except she had returned earlier than he expected.

“Papa, Can you hear me?” She urgently asked, holding a small vial of nectar.

He nodded weakly, unable to speak anymore. The young girl quickly tried to open the vial but her hands trembled too much. She took a deep breath and gently poured its contents into her semi-conscious dad’s mouth.

“Please work, please, please please.” She prayed silently as she examined the wound to see any type of progress. It wasn’t actively bleeding ichor anymore, it looked infected and Poseidon was breathing hard now.

But he fought hard to stay awake as long as he could. “You’re…Doing…Great.” He tried to speak.
His voice was barely audible but she understood what he tried to say.

His eyes tried to look at her but he couldn’t focus, so he grabbed her hand in his, trying to comfort her.

“I’m Okay little one.”

Tears welled up in her eyes, but she quickly wiped them away, as she tried to stay calm for his sake.

“I’m here Papa.” she rubbed her thumb over his now cold hand.

She knew she had to get more help, but he would be angry at her for telling someone. She simply couldn’t provide enough for him in the state he was in.

“I’m sorry Papa, but, I-I have to get someone to help you.” Her voice was shaking now. “I’ll be right back, hold on for a few seconds please.” She reluctantly let go of his hand and ran over to the nest where she knew her mom was sleeping.

Her heart was pounding in her chest as she gently tried to wake Amphitrite up from her peaceful slumber. “Mom please wake up!” She shoves and shakes her mom’s shoulder until the Goddess starts awake. Amphitrite’s maternal instincts kick in when she opens her eyes to see her young daughter crying.

“Kym, what’s wrong sweetie?” She asks, trying to reassure her, so she can calmly explain.

Amphitrite is on her feet in an instant once Kym explains the situation to her. The sea nymph rushes to the bathroom without hesitation while Kym wakes up Triton next because as the Heir to their father, he needs to know when he is in danger.

“Kym? Is everything okay?”

Kym sniffles slightly, “Father has been wounded and now he’s barely conscious, I-I didn’t know what to do so I tried to help but it didn’t work.” She explains fast.

Triton doesn’t waste much time before he rises from their nest. But before he makes his leave he takes the time to make sure his sister is also okay.

“Kym, look at me.” He commands gently, taking her face in his hands, a reassuring gesture that helps her calm down.

“You didn’t do anything wrong, okay?” Tears start to fall down her cheeks. She feels guilty for not helping their Dad before he got to this point but she’s also scared that she betrayed his trust by telling everyone.

“Everything is going to be okay. I promise you.” She nods, trying to wipe her tears away.

Before he makes his leave he takes her into a gentle embrace. She has missed her older brother so much more than she realized.

Triton drags a gentle hand over his little sister’s head, caressing her long colorful jellyfish hair. “I’m going to find a healer while you stay with Mom okay? Can you do that for me?” She nods as they let go of their embrace. He holds her hands before giving her a smile of courage as the remaining members of their family awaken from the commotion.

As Kym returns to their father’s side to assist their mother, Percy wakes up when he feels a gentle tug on his shoulder.

“Percy, you have to wake up.”

As his eyes try to flutter open he’s met with his older sister’s concerned glance, the urgency of the situation hits him. “Rhode? Is everything okay?”

“Father has been injured badly,” Rhode explains, her voice trembling slightly but she tries to contain her emotion.

Percy is quick to get out of the nest fast, so he can see his Dad.

The young boy looks around the huge room trying to catch a glimpse of his Dad, until his vision locks onto the dimly lit bathroom and he sees two shadow figures.

He starts to make his way towards them until a gentle hand on his shoulder stops him in his tracks. Startled, he turns around and sees his other sister Benthesykime.

“Percy, wait.” She commands softly. Every fiber of his being tells him to rush to his side and see if he can help. But the hand on his shoulder stands firm, so he relents.

“I know you want to see him and I do too. But we should wait until Triton arrives with the healers.”

It hadn’t been very long since he had technically started to interact with Poseidon, but he was very much attached to his Dad. He had been so nice to him even though their relationship started later than he should have. He didn’t want to miss out on any more moments they could have together.

“But I need to see him Benth.” Percy pleaded, “What if he needs me?”

Benth and Rhode want to protect him knowing that their Dad wouldn’t want Percy to see him like this. Tears started to form in their baby brother's eyes.

Both goddesses exchanged a concerned glance as Benth held the preteen close; she felt his silent tear soak her nightgown.

"It’s okay Percy,” she rubbed a gentle hand on his back, “You’ll be able to see him soon, and once he feels better, you’ll get to spend all the time you want with him.”

Rhode joined in seeing her youngest brother’s distress. “He’s strong, he’ll recover soon.” She said, smiling at him from behind her sister’s shoulder.

“But we need to be strong for him too until we can finally see him.”

Percy nodded while rubbing the remaining tears from his eyes.

“Let’s play a game while Father gets taken care of.” Percy sniffled but nodded. “Okay.”

They took him back into the nest and tried to distract Percy from his fear while waiting patiently for the Healers to finally arrive.

….
As Kym walked back to the bathroom, she couldn’t help but feel the weight of the promise she had made to her Dad come back to her. Would he be mad once he woke up? Would their relationship go back to the way it was, mere weeks ago?

She kept replaying the situation in her mind. The way he looked at her, the wound, the bags under his eyes, how she let go of his hand when he needed her most.

The young goddess approached the bathroom with heavy steps. The worry and guilt she felt were evident in her eyes.

Despite her mixed emotions, she didn’t want to leave his side so she knelt beside her Mom who was muttering under her breath “ Why would you hide so many scars from me?” as she examined Poseidon’s unconscious body. “We can fight while you rest,” Amphitrite added to her silent conversation.

But that was a conversation they would have on another day after he did finally get the rest he so desperately needed.

“Mom, is he going to be okay?” She whispered as if he could hear what she was saying.

Amphitrite smiled at her softly and nodded. “Yes, he will be. It’s not the first time your Father has to sustain a wound after a battle.”

Kym sighed in relief. She didn’t know what caused the wound, but she was happy to know it would be okay even if technically, they couldn’t die like this.

Triton arrived a few moments later, along with two merman Healers.

He didn’t show much emotion, but his demeanor showed how much he truly cared. Kym also saw that he had gotten his trident which was strapped to his back, ready to defend his family like he had been taught.

Amphitrite and Kym stepped back as the Healers came to Poseidon’s side, and they watched anxiously at the extent of the damage.

Triton silently pulled his younger sister into his side, offering her comfort and protection amidst the chaos.

Amphitrite smiled at the gesture, proud that their Oldest was handling things so seamlessly.

“Thank you Triton, you reacted very well, I truly think your Father will be proud to see the way you handled yourself in such a difficult situation,” Amphitrite said while Triton watched carefully.

“Thank you, Mother.” He replied looking back at her. “My only hope is to become a respectful king for our people and a good brother for my siblings.”

Kymopoleia and Amphitrite exchanged a smile.

Triton was still young, but he was more than ready to take on more responsibilities as the Heir of the throne and they hoped that Poseidon would finally realize how ready he truly was.

As the mermen healers tended to Poseidon’s wounds meticulously, they wrapped the most recent injury that had caused him to bleed so badly in a secure bandage. Kymopoleia stood by her family’s side, her eyes fixed on her dad’s unconscious body.

After they administered the potion, both healers stepped back while watching closely for any signs of movement.

It took what felt like an eternity for him to open his eyes once more

Triton’s breath tightened in his throat as he watched his father’s eyelids twitch. Beside him, he felt Kym squeezing his hand in anticipation while Amphitrite had been silently praying he would wake up.

As Poseidon regained his consciousness, his form started to transform back into what it should look like. His pale complexion came back to a more tan color and the bags he had under his eyes started to disappear too. He would need a lot of rest for the scars and the wound to heal though.

His divinity gave him some of his vitality back without much effort.

They all knelt again so they could be close to him as he woke up.

“Papa you’re awake!” Kymopoleia exclaimed relief in her voice.

Despite his injuries, Poseidon stubbornly attempted to sit up while Triton rushed to assist him. "Take it easy, Father," Triton cautioned. Poseidon gave him a grateful smile and said, "Thank you, my son. Your help is greatly appreciated."

Then he turned his attention to his youngest daughter, as she was assessing the rest of his wounds.

"You've taken such good care of me, my little sea storm." Kymopoleia blushed slightly, trying to avoid his gaze, she feared his reaction.

Despite the severity of the situation, he couldn't help but chuckle at the anger on his wife's face. "I'm fine, Amphi. Just a little worse for wear."

Amphitrite crossed her arms, a mixture of relief and exasperation evident on her face.

"You are not 'fine', Poseidon." she scolded gently.

He knew she meant business when she didn’t use her usual pet names.

"Why wouldn’t you come to me when you got injured?”

He bit his lower lip. “Because I couldn’t live with myself if something happened to you or our children while I was recovering.”

“You will rest for at least a week, while Triton and I handle the rest.”

He opened his mouth to protest, but quickly lost his will at the stern look Amphitrite gave him. He didn’t want to worry her more than she already was, but then he also couldn’t get his mind off the battles ahead and the damage Atlantis was surely going to come across.

His wife, seeing how conflicted he looked came over and placed a gentle hand on his arm, her anger softening.

“Let us take care of Atlantis. It won’t be long until you can take back your duty. Triton and I will handle everything and we have our allies ready to help if we need them.”

Poseidon sighed but gave in.

“I’ll rest then, but Triton I expect you to report to me every single day about what’s going on at the front line.”

Triton nodded and bowed his head in respect. “I will not disappoint you Father I promise.”

Poseidon smiled proudly. “I know you won’t, but I’m not ready to retire just yet.”

They all let out a sigh of relief.

“We’ll manage my lord, try to sleep for once, you need to take better care of yourself.” She said while kissing his forehead.

He smiled at her. “I will.”

“We’ll have to talk more about the injuries you hid from me all this time though.” Her tone got serious again. Poseidon nodded silently, he didn’t try to argue since he knew she would get to the bottom of it either way.

“Let’s get you back to our nest, where the others are waiting to see you.” She said firmly leaving no room for argument.

The two Healers who had been watching the scene silently stepped forward to help their King. Except Triton intervened quickly before they could get to Poseidon’s side.

“ You can go, I’ll handle it from here. Thank you both for your help.”

The mermen bowed respectfully leaving the royal family after they handed Amphitrite the potion and medication Poseidon would need to take for the next few days.

Triton helped Poseidon to his feet, putting an arm around his shoulders. Thankfully he was almost as tall as he was so he could lean into him for support.

They started walking out of the bathroom, Poseidon swayed a little bit, still feeling the effects of the injuries and lack of sleep. Kymopoleia rushed to his side to try and offer him more support to which he responded with a grateful smile.

As they finally made their way to the nest, Percy threw himself into Poseidon’s chest, wrapping his arms around him.

“Papa!”

Poseidon grimaced slightly at the pain the embrace caused, but he steadied himself wrapping his arms around his youngest son in a protective embrace.

“I’m here now. I’m safe” He said while rocking him gently. His heart ached after seeing how much distress he put his family under.

After he was sure Percy was thoroughly comforted and knew he was fine, Benthesykime and Rhode hugged their Dad too, relieved to see him feel better. Kymopoleia watched silently as they embraced, the image of his ichor staining his shirt kept creeping into her mind. She still felt like she didn’t do enough to help him.

Poseidon couldn't remove his feeling of concern as he watched Kymopoleia withdraw into herself, her gaze fixed firmly on the ground. He sensed the weight of her emotions pressing down on her, the burden of guilt and self-doubt.

They had made so much progress within their relationship the last few weeks, and now it seemed to go down the drain.

He made a mental note to address this later, knowing that he was the one to have caused her such pain.

He would make sure to repair it.

During the time being, he merely smiled trying to convey his love and understanding as she settled into their nest, besides her mother. He would have to spend time with her during the restful week that awaited him.

Triton had taken his father's place to make sure he could finally get some rest. with the warm weight of Percy close to his non-injured side and with his family safe at his side, he finally let sleep overtake him.

Chapter 2

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

For the next few days, Poseidon rested as his wife ordered him. She had made it clear that they could handle it out there and they would be relieved when he returned feeling better. But Poseidon was quite stubborn, and now he was bored out of his mind.

At least, Benthesykime and Rhode would bring him company before he could try to reach for the door of their private chamber. “Here, we’re bringing you your favorite meal, Papa.”

Poseidon smiled as he took the plate Rhode handed him. Thank you girls. I appreciate it.” He says as he prepares to eat. “Apollo also changed your medicine, you have to take it three times a day during every meal,” Benthesykime added. He nodded, unscrewing the vial and taking it in.

His wound was feeling a lot better. It wasn’t nearly as infected as it had been when Kymopoleia had found him. But it still hurt considerably and the Healers had to change the bandage every three hours.

“Apollo?” Poseidon asked. Benthesykime pursed her lips. “Yes, Mom told him about the incident because she wanted to make sure you get the best care possible. “Does anybody else know?”

Rhode shook her head. “No. I think she only told him.” He nodded, taking a bite of his plate. “Good.” He taps the plate. He tries to not think too much about the War, but he can’t help it.

“How is Triton handling the council, he didn’t come to make his report yesterday-”

Rhode interrupted him before he could finish his sentence.“Papa! Try to relax, everything is fine. He can handle it. He’s well respected and Delphin is always by his side along with Mom.” Poseidon lifted his hands claiming defeat. “I’m sorry, I can’t help but feel useless here if something were to happen to them.”

Bentheyskime sighed and came to sit beside him and she rubbed a gentle hand on his shoulder. “You’re not useless, it’s okay to take a break sometimes Papa.” Rhode smiled softly at him as she also went to sit in front of him. “Yeah, you’ve always been there for everyone, but now it’s time we take care of you.”

He smiled at them. Kissing Benthesykime hand softly. He was happy to be able to spend more time with them especially because they visited less frequently now that they were married.

He couldn’t shake off the feeling that something bigger was coming. And while Triton and Amphitrite were powerful in their own ways, he knew deep down that they would need his help. They wouldn’t stand a chance against him.

He relished Benthesykime and Rhode’s chatter as he finished his meal. And then they each gave him a cuddle goodbye before their next round. He fell asleep not long after they left.

He didn’t sleep very well though, his mind was filled with the harsh memories of his time inside his father’s stomach. He remembers the fear, the darkness, and Hestia holding him as a child as he screamed in terror.

He turned and moved as if he tried to escape his captivity, as he climbed restlessly to try and see the light again. He turned and moved as if he were trying to escape his captivity. He then felt a gentle hand trying to pull him back towards reality.

He wakes up startled and looks around to make sure he’s out. His sea-green eyes land on those of his wife. Smiling sadly at him. “It’s okay my love, you’re safe.” She tried to reassure him, rubbing a gentle loving hand on his back.

Amphitrite smiled at him softly. She leaned in to hug him. He reciprocated the hug, holding onto her tightly.

“Was it Kronos again?” She asked. Amphitrite knew everything about him. Including his struggle with nightmares. Poseidon hated that he acted so vulnerable sometimes. He was the Sea God, he was the King of Atlantis, but here he was weakened by nightmares. He couldn’t control his own mind.

“I’m sorry for waking you up.” The sea god looks around the nest, and he can see the figures of their children sleeping soundly. He rubs a hand over his now sweaty face.

“It’s okay Po. I wasn’t sleeping well anyway.” She whispered as she rubbed his tense shoulder. “Do you want to talk about it?” He shook his head, too prideful to ask for help. “No, it's okay, I can handle it.”

She smiled softly at him knowing how much he was struggling. Amphitrite leaned down taking his shaking form into a comforting hug. Not saying anything when she felt silent tears wetting her shoulder. She held him tighter against her chest.

They stayed like this in silence for a few minutes until Poseidon calmed down enough to fall back asleep.

……

Poseidon woke up less anxious the next morning. He felt refreshed, more than he had in a long time. Maybe taking a break was really what he needed after all.

But, as soon as he started to emerge from his sleep, he felt the anxiousness coming back. At some point, he will have to fight the one his Father appointed to overthrow him. But now, he still has not recovered from the first round. Oceanus had been stronger than he thought.

Poseidon looked around the room to try and see if someone was sleeping in the nest, but no one was there. He hoped that Amphitrite and Triton would be safe. They didn’t know but Poseidon could still use some form of magic to protect them and he did. Just like he had done when each one of his children was born. He made sure to put a protective seal around them so that if he wasn’t here physically, they would still be safe from harm. For Percy, he had redone the seal multiple times, since he was a demi-god he needed different types of protection from him.

He hadn’t been the greatest father or husband, he had to admit. But he did care for them with all his being even if sometimes he had trouble showing it.

Poseidon reminisced on his family life. For a little bit, quite possibly preparing himself for what was about to come. He knew he couldn’t die per se, but there was always a possibility that the results of his being defeated by Oceanus would cause enormous problems.

For his realm, but also the Olympians.

He took a deep breath and finally prepared himself to go to Olympus where he had a council with Zeus and the others. He wasn’t feeling the best but he knew better than to try his brother’s temper.

Even if he was technically more powerful than him, Zeus would never admit it.

Poseidon dressed casually for the meeting, wearing his typical blue shirt and linen pants. He made sure to conceal the wound he had gathered to not attract attention.

Amphitrite passed him as he made his way to the borders of their realm. She kissed his cheek. “Be careful out there.” He smiled. “I’ll be fine.” His tone got serious again for a second. “Call me if you sense him coming. I do not want you to fight alone.”

He waited until Amphitrite nodded, he wouldn’t leave without knowing she would actually call on him. “I will Po.” She promised him, feeling his gaze on her. He finally let go of her hand and took his trident as he headed out.

…..

He arrived on Olympus safely, greeted his siblings silently, and took his place on his throne next to Zeus. The council started normally, they went over the typical matters. Some of which Poseidon found boring, to be honest, so he sat on his throne holding his head with his hand and pretending to listen. Which Zeus took note of and immediately sent him a disapproving look.

Poseidon merely sighed after the third glance. Thunder started booming around them. He didn’t care but he still straightened his back slightly. Listening to Apollo making his reports. His leg started to shake, he couldn’t hide the fact that he was stressed about something and Zeus would get to the bottom of it.

To Poseidon’s demise, the council lasted a few hours. Enough time to cause his wound to act out. And he started to feel the throbbing pain in his side, he looked down at it, thankfully it hadn’t oozed body fluids on his shirt yet.

Poseidon rose from his throne, ready to flee out the door before Zus grabbed his forearm, pulling him back. “We need to talk.” His tone left no space to argue.

Zeus looked around the room waiting for everyone to make their leave. Hades and he exchanged a glance as the death god nodded, returning to his realm to deal with their brother’s people's souls.

“I see that you are harmed.” Zeus started as he let go of Poseidon’s forearm. He was checking his brother’s posture to try and find the injury. Then, his eyes landed on a thicker part of his shirt.

Poseidon didn’t answer. The sea god avoided his brother’s stare. He didn’t want to admit such weakness in front of his brother no less.

Zeus waited for an explanation that didn’t come. So he decided to take matters into his own hands. His brother has always been stubborn.

Poseidon didn’t have much time to react before he felt Zeus's cold hands pulling on his shirt, revealing his bandaged side. “Who did this?” Zeus asked, Poseidon could see the thunder in his brother’s eyes. He hadn’t witnessed it since…he had saved them from Kronos.

Zeus prodded gently at the wound, making Poseidon hiss in pain.

“Brother, I appreciate your sudden concern but you are not exactly the god of medicine.” But his brother didn’t stop prodding around the bandage, and Poseidon started to feel his patience running thin.

Zeus finally stopped trying to look at the wound and looked down at his younger brother (yes technically Poseidon is older, but because he spent most of his formative years in his father’s stomach, Zeus treated him like his younger brother).

“Answer my question, who is responsible for this, Poseidon?” He ordered.

He needed to find who would dare harm his brother in such a way and think they could get away with it alive.

Poseidon pulled back his shirt, hiding the injury again. “Oceanus.” He admitted. Zeus raised an eyebrow. He had known their Father was back. He felt his presence. Just as he was sure that Poseidon felt him too. But he hadn’t expected Kronos to try and overthrow his brother from his realm by rallying the Titan to the cause.

Oceanus had been peaceful about it then. But their father was convincing.

“Father is back isn’t he?” Poseidon broke the silence.

Zeus nodded solemnly, tightening his fists. “Yes, I sensed him for a few months now. But I didn’t think he would target you specifically.”

Poseidon didn’t know if he meant it as in, he would have hoped for it to happen, or if he was unhappy with it.

“I cannot let this go unpunished, but for the time being, we’re going to see Apollo, so we can get a better judgment on the severity of your injury and then I’ll make sure to send some of my army to Atlantis. We’ll make sure the borders are reinforced.” Zeus said as he paced around the thrones of Olympus.

The sea god listened closely to his brother’s plan. While a part of him loathed to admit he needed help, the other simply couldn’t let his brother take control of his duties for him.

“I appreciate your help, Zeus, I do, but I can handle Oceanus on my own.”

Zeus turns around facing him once more, both eyebrows raised.

“Poseidon, you are injured, it does not bring me any sort of pleasure to give you help. But, Father is back, and we both know he will try to get revenge.’ He paused for a second. “Guess who he is going to go after first?”

Poseidon’s eyes hardened. “I won’t allow it.”

Zeus smiled. “Maybe, but he works in devious ways and you know it. First, he targets your realm, and your people, then he targets you to weaken you considerably through Oceanus to weaken you enough to leave the door open for...”

He stops suddenly, and Poseidon starts to understand where this is going.“Your greatest weakness.” Poseidon feels his heart stop for a second. “He will go after Poseidon, It’s just a matter of time. “

Poseidon looks back at him, eyes harsh, burning with anger. “He won’t lay a finger on them.”

Zeus smiled once more, which made Poseidon want to rip his head off. “I didn’t mean it that way brother, you must think beyond your anger. Remember, he feared that one of us would overpower him right?”

Poseidon rolled his eyes. “Yes, that’s why he swallowed us. Thank you for reminding me of these pleasant times.”

Zeus held a hand before Poseidon could snap at him. “Our Father will try to find the child that can overpower you and use them against you.” He finished pointing towards him.

“You mean, he will use one of my children to betray me?” Poseidon thought long and hard about all the scenarios possible. He didn’t think any of his children could possibly come up with the idea.

After all, he had tried his best to raise them with the love and care he could provide. Not wanting to become like his own Father had been.

His eldest son, Triton, would be devastated if he even tried to accuse him of such a thing. He had trained him to become his Heir. Rhode and Benthesykime didn’t hold resentment in their hearts, they were both too compassionate and loving to think of such a thing.

Percy would never, even if Poseidon wished every day he could have been more present for his youngest.

And then it hit him.

He did make terrible mistakes before, one of them which caused a rift between him and one of his children. A terrible mistake that would cause them to turn against him if ignited by decades of resentment and anger.

“Kymopoleia.”

Notes:

I hope you enjoyed this chapter! It was supposed to be more fluffy than this but then I got hit by writer's block and I changed directions...

Have a good day! And thank you to everyone who left Kudos and comments, I really appreciate it!

Chapter 3

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Poseidon looked back at Zeus with wide eyes. “She wouldn’t.” He shakes his head. “I know she can hold a grudge but she would not betray us willingly.”

Zeus lets his younger brother make his own opinion, but still, he hadn’t come this far only to discuss his injuries. Poseidon starts pacing around. He can’t imagine it, Zeus sighs softly. He didn’t want to possibly hurt his brother even more, but he had to know.

“You know Hades doesn’t make such claims lightly. He saw her walk close to the Lethe River, on multiple occasions.”

“Was she alone?” Poseidon asks, still in disbelief. Zeus nods. “He saw her multiple times, but it’s unclear if she was sent there to release Kronos from Tartarus herself, or if she found allies there.”

Poseidon looks back at his brother with a harsh glare, the pain from his injury forgotten momentarily. He clenches his fists. “I understand you need to find the perfect culprit but that doesn’t mean she did anything. Why would she side with him?”

Zeus raises an eyebrow at the defensive tone. “I’m not accusing her of anything. I’m simply telling you, that it is suspicious to see her roaming around Hades’s domains, and close to the Lethe river.”

Poseidon raised an eyebrow. The Lethe River, Kym. That didn’t make sense. “She’s immune to the water. I don’t see why she would go there.”

Zeus nods. “When Hades first saw her, he tried to bring her away but she wouldn’t move an inch. He was mostly worried about her.” Poseidon rubs a hand on his beard. “He said that she seemed in a trance-like state, and she wouldn’t respond to him.”
Poseidon started to feel uneasy. He needed to go back to Atlantis fast. “I need to go, I have to investigate this further,” Poseidon says.

But before he can leave Zeus pulls him back. “You need to see Apollo first, Poseidon.”

Poseidon tries to protest. “I can handle it just fine, it simply needs to be changed.”

But his brother doesn’t let him go. “You will see Apollo, Poseidon even if I have to drag you there myself.”

The Sea God smiles at his brother before he gets dragged to Apollo’s domains. They pass through the other Olympians. Some of them shake their heads at the sight. Hestia laughs when she sees Poseidon not even trying to move. Poseidon was really stubborn when he wanted to be.

They make their way through the small hills and buildings among Olympus. Until they finally reach Apollo’s infirmary. The building is made of bright gold. Resembling its owner. Once they enter through the golden doors, they’re greeted by an Asclepiad, a healer under Apollo.

She bows respectfully before them. Poseidon acknowledges her and gives her a nod but Zeus doesn’t seem to care.

“What can I do for you?” Zeus, still holding Poseidon firmly by the arm, responds. “We need to see Apollo immediately.” He declares.

She nods in understanding. “I understand my Lord, follow me.”

Leading them through the different rows of beds, where other healers cared for patients, some of which are Minor Gods and other creatures. The atmosphere was filled with a blend of peppermint and chamomile.

Then the young woman stops in front of two golden doors that resemble the ones they entered through before. And she opens them and lets them enter inside. “Thank you,” Poseidon says and she gives him a bright smile as she makes her leave.

Zeus finally lets go of his arm. And Apollo appears smiling brightly and inviting them to come in. “Poseidon! Father: What's up?” He asks excitedly.

Poseidon smiles at the younger god’s vibrant demeanor while Zeus pinches his nose in exasperation. “Poseidon has been injured by Oceanus and we need to know the extent of the damage.”

“Oh, I knew about that already!” He says with a wave of his hand. “Kymopoleia told me.” He turns his back away from them and looks through his medicine cabinets. His work area is quite messy, filled with potions and vials among paperwork.

Poseidon’s brows furrowed at the namedrop. “I thought it was Amphitrite who told you about this.” Apollo doesn’t turn around to respond. “Oh! Actually she came in the other night to ask me for a potion that would speed up the process-” He sifted through the mess and finally found what he was looking for.
“There it is!” He exclaims as he holds the vial triumphantly. And finally comes to stand in front of Poseidon who’s waiting on the exam table, shirtless.

“That’s the medication I took!” He shows the vial to Poseidon. “Perfect for any type of injury!” He adds excitedly at his own creation. He loves making potions. But Zeus, who had been sitting closely, was getting impatient.

“Poseidon has to go back to Atlantis Apollo.” He chastises. “Just take a look at the injury, and tell us what’s wrong.” Apollo’s demeanor changes slightly. “Okie dokie! Let’s see.”

He starts prodding gently at the wound. Attentive at every reaction. Poseidon winces slightly as the sun God prods closer to the hole on his side. “I’m going to be honest, it doesn’t look good. Despite the treatment.”

Poseidon looks down at him. “What do you mean?”

“Eh, I think it spread further on the inside, possibly causing a tissue inflammation which then might infect the muscles-” Apollo feels Zeus’s glare at the back of his head. “So, that means I’m going to need to try and heal it myself, but it might take more time for you to fully recover.”

Poseidon nods. Apollo places both of his hands close to the open wound and starts to recite an incantation. Poseidon feels the pain start to diminish and the skin begins to close a little bit. But, it doesn’t heal completely.

Apollo opens his eyes to look at it once more. He’s confused. “Do you remember what was used to cause such a wound?” He asks Poseidon.

Poseidon tries to remember the battle. It went fast but then he remembered Oceanus used a celestial bronze blade. “I think it was a blade. Normally he uses ancient sea creatures but this time, it was different.”
“Celestial bronze.” He murmurs softly. “I think he might have infused it with something else too.”

Zeus listens carefully. And tries to understand why he would change tactics, Titans were not known to use the same weapons as they did.

Apollo nods in understanding. “That makes sense now, but normally I should be able to heal it completely.” He goes back to his cabinet. And once again makes a mess looking for a specific potion. He steps onto the counter to get to the top of it and grabs a violet vial. And come back.

“This should be helpful. It won’t be an easy fix though.” He informs Poseidon as he removes the cork and starts dabbing the mixture on a cloth. “It will counter the effects of the magic that was infused in the blade, but it will be slow and you need to rest.”

Poseidon nods. “I will try.”

Apollo smiles as he begins to apply the cloth to the wound. It glows brightly as he does. And Poseidon feels a tingling sensation. The young God starts another incantation to help the magic work. And once it’s done, he checks the area.

“It’s no longer infected, but you should clean it at least once a day still.” He then wraps Poseidon’s side in another bandage carefully. “You should be good in a few weeks at most, continue using the potion I gave Kym to help fasten the process.”

“Thank you, Apollo.” He pulls his blue shirt back on again and starts getting up from the marble exam table. He then remembers Apollo mentioning Kymopoleia so he tries to get more information.

Apollo knew Poseidon’s children well, being around Triton’s age.

“When you saw Kymopoleia last time, did she seem like herself?” The Sun God turned once again as he started cleaning up his supplies. “Hmmm, she seemed a bit cryptic. But then I know she’s more on the reserved side.”

Poseidon nods that was in character for her. Apollo looks down at the table trying to remember as much as he can. “To be fair, she must have been in a hurry if you weren’t feeling well.”

“Yes, but she was with me the entire time until the healers arrived. And I got the other potion yesterday.” he pauses. “What did she tell you?” He asks.

Apollo thinks about their interaction. “She didn’t say much. She simply told me that she needed a potion because you had been severely injured and you were passing out.”

Poseidon hums under his breath. Apollo’s insight didn’t give him any more clues. But he hadn’t realized Kymopoleia had been missing then.

“Thank you, for your intel. Please Keep me informed if you have any more insights on her behavior.”

Apollo nods. “I will, but for now I think she simply might have been scared after seeing you like this.”

Poseidon sighed. “I hope it’s simply out of fear and not something more dire.”

Zeus and him make their leave. Apollo goes back to cleaning his workplace. And both Olympians walk towards the exit of Olympus.

“I already sent spies to Atlantis, the soldiers will come tonight to reinforce the borders. You should rest.” The Sea God looks at his brother and sighs. “I’ll rest when I’m sure my family and home are safe.”

With that, he goes back to Atlantis.

Notes:

I hope you like it! I cut the chapter because I already started writing for what happens after, but I want to see where I'm going first lol!
I will try to update more often because I have a lot of unfinished stories in my files but I've been busy with school... I'll hopefully post a new story today or tomorrow!

Thank you for reading, Kudos, and comments!
It means the world to me :D <3

Chapter 4

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Once Poseidon made it back home, he went straight to his palace, he was a bit out of breath as he made his way through the multiple staircases leading up to the War room. His mind was racing with the possibilities, would Kym betray him? What was she doing in his brother’s domains? Would Hades turn against him too? Since he hadn’t talked to him in years, most of their interactions were now met with coldness whereas before Hades and him had been so close.

Did Hades want to see him hurt too now?

Why after so many years, did he not speak to him on such important issues?

Poseidon shook his head as this thought passed him. How could his eldest brother ever want to see him in pain or else? He raised him. He protected him. But the Sea God needs to know why Hades wouldn’t tell him directly that his daughter had been seen lingering close to the Lethe River.

Poseidon walks through the multiple rooms inside the magnificent abalone shell palace, not minding the servants as he goes. Until he arrives into their private family wing where he hopes desperately to find his youngest daughter. He wants to know exactly what happened. Why did she go to Apollo before helping him heal?

One thing he knew for sure, was that Kymopoleia seemingly knew way more than what she let on the first time.

If Kronos said anything to her indirectly. A part of him also wants to protect her even though their relationship has been strained before these events. It hadn’t been long since Kymopoelia came back home.

Poseidon tries not to strain himself too much because he feels his wound acting up now, it’s been a long time since he changed the bandages, but he needed to find Kym. He can push the pain aside for now.

He walks fast and pushes the door to her room with almost too much force. He takes a look around and she’s nowhere to be found.

“Kym?” He calls. But he doesn’t get any response. The room is silent, the only thing he hears is the quiet movements of the sea surrounding the area. He tries to feel her essence, as Gods they had special links to their offspring no matter where they were, as long as it was closer to their parent's domains.

But he doesn’t feel anything no matter how far he tries to push. Poseidon grunts a bid after his third attempt and sighs. The Sea God sits on the soft bed and looks around the area again. He hopes that danger does not fall on Kymopoleia and that she isn’t going to do something that might cause harm to Atlantis.

Or Olympus for that matter, because he knows that Zeus will not be lenient if he found out she betrayed the Gods. Poseidon sighs but then he remembers that technically his realm is at War. He doesn’t have the time nor the energy to deal with all of this right now.

The throbbing pain on his side pulls him away from his thoughts. Poseidon takes a quick look at it and knows that he needs to take care of it now before it gets infected once more. So he does. When that is done, Poseidon retrieves back to his room. Poseidon takes care of his wound that night alone and remembers his father's fear. That a child of his would overthrow him and that is why he and his siblings were swallowed. Poseidon looks down at the wound.

Wondering if the prophecy would be true from him.

The door of the chamber creeks open as Amphitrite steps inside. Her beautiful dress flows nicely behind her. She smiles up at him sadly watching his wound. The Queen of the Sea sighs sadly and comes to help him. Amphitrite takes the used bandage Poseidon had set aside and throws it away. Then she grabs a clean one and starts mending the wound carefully.

Both King and Queen of the Sea stay in quiet silence until Poseidon’s thoughts don’t stop bothering him, so he tries to get more intel on their youngest daughter.

“Have you seen Kymopoleia today?” He asks.

Amphitrite secures the bandage tightly but not too tight around his stomach. And shakes her head.

“No, I think she might have isolated herself once again.” She looks at the seahorse plushie sitting on their daughter’s bed. If it had been Rhode or Benthesykime, Amphitrite would have admittedly been more concerned, but since she had always struggled to bond with her youngest daughter, she wasn’t as concerned as she should be.

She sighs as her own thoughts make “You know how she is. When things get too overwhelming she retreats.” She sighs sadly. “My only hope is that she’ll eventually return safely. I don’t like not knowing where she is during such tumultuous times.”

Poseidon looks up to her. “You don’t seem worried. Oceanus is still out there.”

Amphitrite looked down to her feet. “I am concerned, but you know how hard it is to reach her, I tried, but she pushed me away every time.”

Poseidon watched as Amphitrite’s eyes became sad at the admission. It is true that despite all the love the Queen of the Sea held for her children, and the multiple demigod children Poseidon brought throughout the years, Amphitrite didn’t seem to have had the same patience and love for Kymopoleia. Poseidon's Admittedly also struggled with their youngest daughter. He knew Amphitrite's love for their children was deep, but there was a distance when it came to Kymopoleia. It was hard to ignore the fact that their youngest had always been different, harder to handle wild, chaotic, and prone to violent outbursts.

They had been desperate to have her then, but once she was born and quickly showed signs of her violent streaks, it did scare them a bit. Especially Amphitrite who was used to her husband’s unpredictable temper, but Poseidon did try to control himself, whereas Kymopoleia seemed to thrive in the violence and chaos she caused around her.

She often clashed with her parents, and Poseidon found himself restraining her powers more times than he cared to remember. It pained him to admit it, but Kymopoleia’s violent tendencies had always made their bond more difficult than it should have been.

Once his wife is finished with the bandaid she gives him a gentle kiss on the lips as she pulls him to his feet. “Come, my love, you need rest.”
….

Kymopoleia walked silently looking at the black water. The young goddess sighed sadly. Holding the blade that hurt her father a few days prior. She held onto the blade tightly as if she was afraid of dropping it.

The black water moved seamlessly at her feet, encouraging her to go in and not resist its hold. At least, she could forget about everything, no one would care for her anyway. Maybe her parents would finally have peace now that she wasn’t there to disrupt it anymore.

Kymopoleia walked closer to the water, her hands were shaking as she held onto the blade, a symbol of her treason against her own. She took a breath before coming closer and closer to the small black waves that were calling her.

She felt pulled to it without knowing why she got here in the first place, but this was her chance to make amends for what she had done. But just as the water lapped at her feet, as the weight of the blade threatened to pull her deeper, she felt a firm, steady hand grip her arm.

The touch was cold and gentle, but unwavering, pulling her back from the Lethe and its water, from her pain. Before she can stop herself, she feels a silent tear dropping from her eye. She had wanted to finish, to finally be at peace, to let go of the anger and the violence she was known for.

Lethe was her only chance of becoming something different, someone better and more peaceful.

Slowly, she opened her eyes, and her breath caught when she saw the face of the one who had stopped her. She looked up to meet the black eyes of her Uncle.

Hades.

Notes:

So I'm so sorry for not updating this fic earlier, I admit that this isn't the best chapter, but I'm trying to find inspiration to write for it.
I'm not entirely sure where the plot is going lol but next chapter will focus on the underworld and Hades's family :D
It probably will be fluffy too! And we'll see Persephone :)

I wanted to thank everyone who liked, commented, and subscribed to this fic, it means a lot to me! And I really hope you won't be disappointed in this chapter. I'll hopefully update more regularly, but my life is a bit messy at the moment...

Edit as of May 2025 : This story isn't dead! I simply am writing diffrent things at the moment which ironically help me add more characters and depth to this one as I get more ideas! So I cannot tell you exactly when I'll be posting the next chappter, but I can say that it will be soon!