10. Self Sacrifice
There are three of them. One stands tall and proud atop Camp Half-Blood Hill, a beacon of hope and strength. The second stands immediately center stage at the entrance of Olympus, the first thing you see when you step off the elevator. The last stands thirty thousand leagues under the sea, softer than the rest, a son as opposed to a hero. Three statues, each as powerful in their own right as the next: three statues of Percy Jackson.
The Percy that stands at Camp Blood Hill is etched in the camp uniform, jeans and a torn shirt, beads flowing around his neck. Riptide is held before him, his legs braced in preparation for attack. His face contrasts the battle ready stance, kind but stern to welcome the new coming demigods and ward off any enemies that dare brave the likeness of the great demigod. The plaque below his feet serves as a reminder to the camp below of the cost of their freedom and the hero who fell alone for them.
The lieutenant of Artemis, when the Hunt graces the camp's shores, stays by his side. She will smile, a wistful sad thing, and sit by his side. The great satyr with the voice of Pan always greets the statue with a hand upon his cheek, tears in his eyes.
The Percy that stands at Olympus is half turned, head turned towards the sea. There are hard lines on his face, Riptide at his side once more but this time the tip is aimed at the ground. He is clothed in armor except his face, leaving all of Olympus bare for once vibrant eyes to see. The hilt is firmly within his grasp but it is not violent in nature; he is ready but not for battle. He is a reminder to the gods of their duties, of their responsibilities. A reminder of all they owe the demigods.
You can tell guilt often by the gods who walk past him with eyes downcast. Sometimes Hermes or Apollo will stop and stare, a conversation given to unresponsive bronze ears. Life on Olympus goes on.
The final statue resides in his father's throne room. It is the only of the three without a sword. It is also the only one with a smile. This Percy Jackson is mid-step, body leaning to the side as though inviting you forward. His arm is outstretched, palm up and fingers beckoning. His hair stands up, wild and free, giving the illusion that the gentle current that flows around the stone form really ruffles the unruly strands. He smiles at you, a brilliant smile full of love and laughter and all who gaze upon it agree it is the perfect likeness of the demigod at his best, and can't help but love him.
It is Poseidon's most jealously guarded treasure. The lord of the sea spends hours staring at the cold image of his favorite son. The lively, carefree likeness is equal parts blessing and curse. A reminder of what he has lost; the only remnant he has to cling to.
A/n Thank you all so much, your reviews always make my day ~*
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