Author's Note: So I guess I had to say sorry for not updating. Well, this chapter wasn't really that hard, but its kinda rushed, so hopefully you'll forgive my mistakes. The first part is a little boring, but I hope the last part makes up for it. I'm trying to give you a feel on what Percy is thinking, so this chapter is like a filler for that.

The story is moving forward, YES! Thanks for all the reviews, follows and favorites! Really, I'm not forcing you to review, but I hope you will.

Disclaimer: I don't own Percy Jackson and the Olympians.

This is in Percy's POV(gonna happen from now on, and might switch to Apollo's and Nico's POVs. Sorry, no other POVs)

First Meeting

There are perks of being a wealthy princess.

One; You can get up any time you want, which is usually 12 pm for me. Then, servants rush in to feed you lunch, take your clothes, even give you a bath and fix your hair.

Two; Food is amazing, and its everywhere. You can be at the dining room, or your bedroom, garden or even at the bathroom, and just a ring of a bell, a maid holding a tray of delicacies is there.

Three; You don't have to worry about anything. I don't need to fuss over clothes, or makeup, or fun stuff to do. I have personal advisers who take care of that, dress me up, make me pretty for everyone, and make me take fencing lessons or somethin'.

I got the life everyone wishes for, and I might sound like an ungrateful brat for saying this, but I don't think I want to be a princess anymore.

For seventeen years, my life has been prerecorded. What I'm gonna do tomorrow? Probably eat, sleep, and pretend I'm living the luxury life even though I'd rather be anywhere but here.

I do have a carefree life, I don't have to worry about everything, because everything else is done for me.

My life is so boring.

I sighed as I lay in my bed. My room is huge, with royal blue walls, floor-length windows and expensive furnitures. My bed is the softest cotton in Atlantis, with matching white pillows and blue covers. The place is decorated with pearls, from the luxurious bathroom, to my personal walk-through closet. It may be grand, yes, but most importantly, it is my place of solitude, nobody enters it but me.

I stood and walk towards the balcony. I looked at the simple merfolk, dancing outside, and for once, not a care about the world. They all looked content and happy, thanks to the way my parents ruled them so kindly. I should even be the one celebrating, since today is my eighteenth birthday.

Leaning forwards, I smiled as a group of merman started asking some mermaids to dance, and the music became slow and soft. I grasped the railing and rested my head on my hand, feeling the happy mood.

Wrong move, the smooth marble immediately turned into solid ice, exactly where I placed my hand. I quickly moved away, trying to make sure I don't turn my whole room into ice. The last time that happened, everybody was sleeping, and they didn't appreciate waking up as frozen ice sculptures.

As if being a boring princess isn't bad enough, I even have to be a freak one.

I had these powers for as long as I can remember, and for some reason, I'm the only one who has them. I can't control water, I can only breathe in it. The only thing I can do is to make ice, and I'm pretty sure being a sea princess does not include that.

"Happy birthday, sis." a voice called out. I whirled around and saw my older brother, Triton, leaning on the door frame. I quickly draped the curtains and walked towards him.

"What part of 'privacy' did you not understand?" I whined, putting my hands on my hips.

Triton is a thousand years old, and I'm not exaggerating, yet he still looks like a teenager. He has jet-black hair and sea green eyes that we both got from our father, but unlike me, you could say he's more refined, and princely. He always acts the way we're supposed to be, gentle, smart, and firm. I couldn't even learn how to walk properly in this huge dresses.

He merely shrugged at my response. "I knew you'll say that." He said. "Which is why I got you this." He brought out a box he's been hiding behind his back, showing it to me. It was small, fits snugly in his hand, but beautiful. The box itself was made out of diamonds, and lined with gold and silver that spelled out my name, 'Percy' in ancient greek. Pearls decorated the top of the lid. It was so amazing, I didn't know if the present was inside it, or I'm already looking at it.

"Wow! I mean...you should've have." I stammered. Of course, I've received plenty of expensive gifts from my father, but gifts like this often took me off guard.

Triton smirked, clearly pleased that I was astonished. He handed the box to me, the smug look on his face unwavering. I rolled my eyes as I grabbed the lid and tried top take it off. Unfortunately, I felt like I was opening a can with my bare hands, my brother laughed at my ridiculous attempt.

"Here." He offered, and took the box from me. With one strong move, he loosened the lid smoothly, then handed the box back to me.

"This better be amazing." I warned him. He just grinned and winked. I sighed and took off the lid, where inside I found...more pearls.

"Oh." I said, failing to mask the disappointment in my voice. "This is just what I needed, more pearls." I said sarcastically, but my brother laughed and shook his head.

"This aren't just pearls. Seriously, you need to be more inquisitive with things." he said as he took the pearls.

I rolled my eyes. "Can you just show me what this does?" I said.

He grinned excitedly. "You see, this are magic pearls. When you smash it in your foot, it shows you the last thing that happened at that place." Triton took one of the pearls and handed the three back to me. He walked over the balcony and dropped the pearl on the floor, smashing it with his foot. The pearl turned into dust, yet nothing happened.

"Um, are you sure you got the right pearl?" I asked him. He merely glared at and said "Shush!".

Soon enough, the dust started to slowly float in the air, the light making it even mysterious. It swirled across the room, forming a figure that looks like a person. It started merging together, and suddenly I could see the person as a girl, wearing a long dress, with skinny arms and long, curly hair. I gasped in amazement as I recognized the girl as me.

The whole figure shimmered in color, and it was so life-like I could have sworn I was looking at a mirror, except we weren't doing the same thing. Not-me walked over to the railing, completely mimicking the excitement on my face earlier. She looked out the window, with the same longing, and she touched the exact, same place where I placed my hand. She immediately jumped away, with the balcony turning to ice. It might've continued, but Triton slashed his hand through the image, and it disappeared.

"You need to be more in-control of your powers." He said, his expression turning serious. I let out a sigh.

"I know, I'm trying, okay?" I said, exasperated. With all my weird powers, my parents, including Triton, are expecting me to control them. The truth is, they've kept all of this a secret. Apparently, if anyone found out about me, we're all dead. For a moment, we both we're silent.

"Dad has something to say to you." Triton finally said. He ran his hand through his hair, worried. "You should go talk to him. He's been waiting for your eighteenth birthday, after all." I nodded, and he started to walk towards the door, leaving. I didn't want him to leave yet, I wanted to talk more. I just didn't think I'll get the talk I wanted from dad today.

"Oh, right, before I forget." Triton paused, his body midway through the door. "Try not to scream at dad, you know his temper." He gave me one of those looks that means I'm supposed to take this seriously, then turned and walked out that door.

I frowned. Why would he think I would scream at dad? Doesn't he know dad's one of my favorite people in the world? Sure, I don't meet a lot of people, since they keep me locked up in here, and I may be temperamental sometimes, but I'm pretty sure I wouldn't scream at my father for anything.

And boy was I wrong.

I looked at the mirror nervously.

After Triton left, Delphin rushed in a few minutes later, telling me to get ready for the ball. I frowned.

A ball? Believe it or not, my parents have never really thrown me a ball. Mostly, my birthday parties consisted of me, my family, and few of my father's trusted servants. And believe, my father's trust is hard to earn, that's why very few people attend my birthdays. I didn't have chance to have friends anyway, it's not like teenage girls could be found inside the palace, so I guess it didn't matter that I have small parties. And now, Delphin is pressuring me to look the most formal I can get for tonight's ball.

Why would I need to look pretty if only a few people would be in my party anyway?

Amphitrite sent me a trunk full of extravagant dresses, and each one were either too huge, or studded with thousands of gems. I picked out the most simple gown in the trunk, but it was still too stunning for me.

The top of the gown hugged my body tightly, then bursts out the base. It wasn't too huge, and every time I move, the skirt moves with me, like water. It was deep blue in color, and showered with diamonds and pearls. I wore simple earrings composed of a blue gem, and blue flats with silver designs. My hair was neatly combed, and was allowed to flow down my shoulders. I'm going to be meeting a lot of people, so I put on my best silk gloves. We already have enough ice sculptures in the palace.

For the first time in my life, I looked like a princess. Butterflies has become moths gnawing at my stomach.

My father has asked for me to talk to him before the ball, and somehow I knew it would explain the sudden preparation. I stepped out of my room, slowly making my way to the throne room. I didn't want to rush things, just savor these moments were everything felt right. Mermen flanked the halls, bowing down to me as I passed. I nodded at them and continued walking, looking down at the floor. It wasn't very long until the intricate, blue tiles turned into red carpet, and I looked up to see ornate, double doors. I swallowed, and pushed it open.

My father was sitting at his throne, which wasn't very grand, just a large, sea green chair with greek etchings. Some mermen, which I think were advisers, stand in front of him, showing him some sort of proposal. He didn't look convinced, and soon his eyes wandered over me.

He cleared his throat. "Excuse us for a moment." He said, straightening up. His advisers immediately nodded and scrambled away, almost bumping each other at the process. They muttered a few 'Yes sir', 'of course' and 'good luck' before shutting the door behind them.

My father didn't say anything, except look nervously at me.

"So..." I started, trying to break the awkward tension. "You wanted to throw me a ball? Tonight?" I asked.

He seemed to relax, and smiled. "Yes, I think it's time for everyone to be aware of you, my daughter, the princess of Atlantis." he grinned proudly, spreading his hands.

I tried to smile for his sake, which seemed genuine. I never been to a ball before, so I decided to feel excited for once.

"Well..." I continued again. "I guess that would be pretty exciting." I stared at my hands, unable to continue the conversation.

"I need to tell you something, Percy." My father's voice was uncertain, as if he still hasn't decided how to talk to me.

I looked up. "What?" I asked. "If it's about my powers, I swear I've been practicing-"

"It isn't about your powers." He immediately said. "Though I guess your powers did have something to do with this."

"Why?" I was suddenly curious. My father told me that when I was born, a titan attacked the palace, who apparently has control over ice. They only managed to realize that I've been cursed when I was six. My parents have been looking for a cure, yet they couldn't find one. Although, dad always told me I would be alright.

Dad stared at me in the eye, and years of care flashed back to me. I remembered when I asked him if I was an orphan, and he held me until the tears were gone. I wonder if there will ever be a time he would let go.

"Percy, please don't overreact." He breather in, taking his time. "Lots of princesses go through this, it's fairly normal for them to-"

"I know, I know." I rolled my eyes. "I'm participating in this ball, okay? I promise I won't be a brat this time."

My dad's eyes widened, then he shook his head vigorously. "No, you don't understand." He looked at me, sighing. "This ball is for you to celebrate, and for you to meet your betrothed." he said firmly.

I cocked my head to the right, my mouth forming an 'O'. "What?" I said. "Betrothed?"

Dad gulped, running his hand through his hair and then nodding. "Yes, betrothed. You're going to be meeting your fiancée."

I never really felt like a princess before. Sure, I get to wear dresses, have maids at my beck and call, but nobody really forced me to do anything. My dad didn't force me to learn how to rule. Amphitrite didn't care if I have no manners. Even Triton merely laugh if I somehow get lost in the palace. I didn't feel like a princess, where I have a lot of duties and stuff. I just felt like a really rich, and spoiled daughter of some high-ranking official. I've always thought my life is always gonna be boring.

Until now.

"You mean to say, an arranged marriage?" I asked, my voice amazingly even, but it didn't mask the obvious surprise and anger in it.

"Yes." Was all my dad could say.

"I can't believe this!" I said, waving my hands frantically. "All this time, you were keeping me in this palace, but the truth is, you've already given me away!" I yelled.

"Percy, stop." My dad stared at me, calm yet firm. "You knew better that I'm doing this for a reason." His gaze softened, and he almost looked worried for me.

"Then what is it? Why don't you tell me now?" I asked, my eyebrows all scrunched up together. My dad sighed.

"I can't. I'm afraid it's too early for that." he looked down the floor, hand on his forehead.

"Too early? Your giving me away to some stranger I haven't even met!" I felt my face burning. I mangled my hair with my hands, showing my frustration, then refused to look at my father.

"I think it's best if you go back to your room." He began, cautiously trying to keep calm. "I'll tell the servants to give you time to settle."

I refuse to answer. I stood there, so still I could've been a statue. My face is a blank paper, completely devoid of emotion. My mind is like a locker, so filled with junk and trash and clutter it could burst open if not locked outside.

I'm getting married.

At eighteen?

I could faintly feel my legs carrying me to the door, right hand turning the knob and pushing it open. I could only think of what's gonna happen today. Will my fiancée be so perfect? Or so horrible that all he could offer is that he's a prince? I'm thinking he must be perfect, since my parents would never think of giving me to someone they dislike. But how can I say he's perfect, if I have never even dreamed of marrying anyone all my life? I haven't even seen that many guys. Sure, I've seen Triton, and I'd be damned if I say so, but he's pretty charming. But other than him, I have no one to compare to.

"Percy?" My father's voice suddenly disrupts my thoughts. He's looking at me warily, unsure of what my reaction is. "I forgot to say, happy birthday, my princess."

I nod once, and close the door.

I ran into Amphitrite on my way to my room. Once she saw how horrible I looked, she sent her best maids to fix me. So I'm sitting here, in front of the mirror again, totally wondering who's this stranger in front of me.

My long, raven curls have been combed back into a loose braid, allowing a few strands fall perfectly in front of my face. I'm still wearing a deep blue gown, but the top was designed with intricate, silver straps, that is fitted and comes loose at the middle of my thighs, making me look like a mermaid. Pieces of shells, pearls and crystals decorated the front, and the maids placed a matching silver tiara on top of my head. Thankfully, they gave me a pair of matching blue gloves, so I don't have to worry about my powers or anything.

I look like a princess. I don't even know myself anymore.

"She looks perfect!" Amphitrite comes in suddenly, smiling at me with her hands clasped. "Although, I think she is a bit lacking in accessory, don't you think?"

I refused to wear the diamond necklace they were giving me, only agreeing to the simple blue earrings and bracelet. My neck is completely bare.

I sat there and didn't say anything. I could feel Amphitrite motion the servants to go outside, then sit beside me.

"Percy, look I know your upset, and I can't blame you." She placed a hand on my shoulder, her voice surprisingly comforting. "But a princess has to look for the good in things, and learn how to be selfless." She said.

I let out a sigh. "I know, it's just that, do you really need to put me into an arranged marriage? I mean, there's no wars, or anything, so what's the point of this?" I asked.

She smiled meekly. "If there's a different way, an easier way, we would have done it. But always, always remember, this is all for you, and I promise everything will be fine." She brushed a lock of hair aside.

I shrugged. "I guess so. I just wish you guys would tell me why."

"Oh, lighten up." Amphitrite laughed. "You'll know soon enough. Besides, that's not what we're supposed to be talking about." her voice was suddenly mischievous, and she grinned slyly. "You haven't met your fiancée yet." she said.

"Wait, you've met him?" I asked. Amphitrite nodded. "So, what's he like?" I tried to ask nonchalantly.

Amphitrite laughed. "See? Your finally growing up! Talking about boys and stuff." She bumped her shoulder with mine. I rolled my eyes.

"I can't believe I'm having this conversation with you." I shook my head.

Amphitrite only laughed harder. "But really, you should wear more jewelry. Your so plain." She took out a pouch, and opened it revealing a simple blue box.

"Here." She took off the lid and inside was a simple necklace. A golden shell hung with greek writings on the side. In the middle of it was a small, simple pearl. Amphitrite placed it on my neck, and I smiled.

"Thanks, it's beautiful." I touched the seashell, which felt strangely warm.

"It's your dad's gift." Amphitrite said. I looked at her.

"Well, I better get going. Don't want to be late for your very first ball." She stood and walk to the door. "Remember, stand straight, and don't be so rude to people." She gave me one last glare and closed the door.

I touched the shell again.

It's funny how many people would want to see you, just because you're a princess. They haven't even seen me, but I'm a princess, so I must be interesting.

Their loss.

"Ladies, gentlemen, guests and people of Atlantis, presenting, princess Persephone!" A guy wearing a heavy-looking armor announced, and it's my cue to step out. And even though I was wearing gloves and a thick dress, I felt cold.

I walked slowly and steadily, keeping my body straight just as Amphitrite instructed. They're already down there, waiting for me. I reached the balcony overlooking the ballroom, and I finally saw the audience. People were mixed with merpeople, gowns and tails intertwining. It didn't matter, they all intimidate me. I spotted my family at the back, Triton grinning stupidly and waving. I frowned. I was standing still, unsure if I should go down now, or maybe wait a moment. But most of all, I was wondering why they were all wearing masks.

My parents didn't tell me this was a masquerade ball. I found Triton, and his hands were raised in an expression 'OOPS'.

I repeatedly slapped him mentally.

I started to walk down the stairs, all eyes on me. I looked around, wondering if my fiancée is in the crowd. Nobody really struck me as someone dad would like, and I didn't want to think I'm gonna be marrying one of these guys. Not that I think they're horrible, they're not just my type.

As soon as I was in the dance floor, ballroom music started to play. Everyone immediately started dancing, finding their partners. I was lost for a moment until dad walked up and took my hands.

"Enjoying the night?" He asked. I shrugged.

"I guess." He nodded, refusing to say more. For a while, we were silent, blending with all the people. I could hear several murmurs about me, but I didn't want to ruin dad's mood again. I'm so glad he wasn't angry yet.

"I'm sorry about earlier." I found myself saying. I looked down at my feet and continued dancing.

"It's okay." My father's voice was gentle, and he smiled at me. "So I supposed I should warn your fiancée about your feisty attitude? Please try not to kick him in the face, okay?" He said. I laughed.

"Sure." We were silent once again, and the music was changing.

"I better go, try to enjoy the night." My dad stepped away, and I saw him ask out Amphitrite. I looked around and found Triton dancing with a pretty blonde. I stepped back, wondering what to do, when I saw a chocolate fountain at the banquet table. I slowly walked to it, trying to be graceful. I felt out-of-place, the only one without a mask. I was almost there, when I accidentally stepped on someone else's dress.

"Oh, sorry." I muttered and she stepped back. Unfortunately, I still hadn't removed my foot, so I stumbled. I bit back a scream, and I thought I was surely gonna fall flat on the floor, when strong, strangely warm hands wrap around me.

I found myself facing a blonde boy, about my age. He was way taller than me, and was wearing a golden mask with sun designs, so I couldn't quite see his face. His eyes were like miniature suns, but they were warm and inviting. His skin was tanned, lips perfectly curved, and defining lines across his face. He was wearing a smug smile, with one eyebrow raised as if saying 'Seriously?'. I know I wasn't qualified to say this, but he was devastatingly handsome.

I must be crazy.

"Um, sorry." I stammered. "I'm just gonna-". There was a sudden music change, and before I knew it, this stranger pulled me in and led me to the dance floor. I felt so awkward, I decided to just go along with what he's doing.

"You know, I thought princesses were supposed to be graceful." He teased. His voice was amazing, and for some reason I wanted to hear him sing. I gave myself a mental slap.

"Whatever." I manage. He laughed at me, and I gave him a glare. We danced slowly, and I tried to look anywhere but his face. I would be extremely embarrassed if anyone saw me blush. We were quiet for a while 'till he broke the awkward silence. His hands were amazingly warm, I could feel the heat through my gloves.

"So, got your sights on anyone?" he asked, twirling me around. I looked at him weirdly.

"No, of course not. I haven't met any of these people." I reasoned, suddenly feeling defensive. He pouted.

"Oh, come on. Don't you believe in love at first sight?" He smirked, pulling me closer.

"No, do you?" I didn't know why I said that. I wanted to get away from him, but there was something in him that was driving me closer. Stupid brain.

He smiled softly, the light catching on with his hair. It looked amazing, like golden rays during sunrise. "Not really." His face was suddenly serious, golden eyes staring at me. "Until I met you."

He reached up his hand, and took off his mask. I was caught off guard. Seeing his face fully for the first time, I had to rephrase my statement earlier.

I knew what I was saying when I said he was devastatingly handsome.

So I was standing there, like an idiot with my mouth wide open, when he suddenly pulled me close and pressed his lips against mine.

So, review anyone? Also, please don't be mad at what I just did, I'll explain everything on the next chapter.