Sorry for the teeny-weeny delay, but it is finally here!
Percy and Nico found themselves battered and worn after their intense battle with Python. They limped away from the battlefield, the adrenaline from the fight slowly giving way to exhaustion. Their clothes were torn, their skin marked with cuts and bruises, and the sand seemed to stick to them no matter how hard they brushed it off.
As they staggered through the desert, they spotted the lights of a nearby town on the horizon. With determination, they pushed forward, the lights growing brighter with each step.
When they finally reached the town, they were met with curious stares from the locals. Two disheveled and weary teenagers covered in sand, dirt, and blood weren't exactly common sights. Percy and Nico exchanged glances, silently acknowledging that they needed help.
As they stumbled through the outskirts of town, their steps heavy and their bodies aching, Percy and Nico could hardly believe their luck when a store materialized seemingly out of thin air before them. The sign above the entrance read "Bed & Blessings." It was as if the universe sensed their desperate need and responded with this unexpected haven.
Percy exchanged a puzzled glance with Nico, the golden hue that seemed to surround the building not escaping their notice. A warm, inviting light bathed the exterior, casting a soothing glow in the night and giving the place an aura of enchantment.
With caution and curiosity, they stepped through the entrance. The interior was just as intriguing as the exterior – a blend of modern convenience and mythical charm. Shelves held celestial bronze weaponry, ambrosia, nectar, and other supplies ideally suited for demigods. It was as if the shop knew what they needed, tailored to their unique needs.
A friendly merchant, a middle-aged man with a knowing smile, greeted them as if he had been expecting them. "Welcome, young travelers," he said in a voice that seemed to hold the wisdom of ages. The merchant's presence radiated a captivating aura, drawing Percy and Nico's attention the moment they stepped into the shop. He stood at an average height, his appearance deceivingly unassuming at first glance. His weathered face held the markings of a life lived, lines etched at the corners of his eyes, evidence of both hardships and wisdom.
His eyes, however, were the most remarkable feature. They were a deep, ancient shade of amber, holding a glimmer that seemed to reflect the very essence of time itself. When he looked at Percy and Nico, they felt a connection that transcended mere conversation. His gaze had a comforting familiarity as if he had seen the struggles of countless demigods before them.
The merchant's attire was a fusion of modern and mythological. He wore a simple button-up shirt under a leather jacket, both of which seemed to have an air of enchantment about them. The jacket's collar was adorned with intricate stitching depicting scenes of ancient battles and heroic quests.
A pendant hung from a chain around his neck, a curious blend of celestial bronze and a shimmering gem that seemed to pulse with energy. Percy couldn't help but wonder if this pendant held some kind of protective charm, perhaps a token from the past that held power beyond what met the eye.
As he spoke, his voice carried a soothing quality that seemed to wrap around them like a comforting embrace. His words had a musical lilt as if each syllable held a hidden meaning, a whispered secret that only those attuned to the magical world could understand. "You seem like you've had quite the adventure."
Percy and Nico exchanged glances. "We... we did," Percy admitted, his voice carrying the weight of their recent battle.
Percy raised an eyebrow at the merchant as he turned to the shelves, finding supplies they hadn't even realized they needed. Nico's gaze lingered on a display of enchanted items, each with its own story to tell. Percy picked up a celestial bronze knife, its weight familiar and comforting in his hand.
As they moved through the shop, the merchant's voice took on a deeper resonance as he spoke about their needs. "I've seen many like you before," he said, his amber eyes focused on Percy and Nico. "Demigods, in search of refuge and respite."
Percy stopped. Paranoia gnawed at the edges of his thoughts. He glanced at Nico, who wore a similarly guarded expression. After their ordeal with Python, the idea of a haven seemed almost too good to be true. Had they walked into a trap? Was the merchant merely biding his time, waiting for the perfect moment to strike? He cursed himself for allowing his guard to slip, for letting the exhaustion from the battle dull his instincts. It hadn't even occurred to him that this sanctuary, this stop and shop, could potentially be a guise for something more sinister.
His mind raced, analyzing the situation. He had faced deception and treachery before, the world of gods and monsters often proving itself to be a labyrinth of manipulation. The merchant's kind demeanor and understanding words might be nothing more than a smokescreen. But Percy's frustration grew as he realized that his current state of vulnerability had made him susceptible to overlooking such a possibility.
Instinctively, Percy's hand moved to the hilt of Riptide, drawing the celestial bronze sword in a fluid motion. The blade gleamed in the warm light of the shop, its presence a reminder of their eternal struggle against mythological threats.
"Who are you?" Percy demanded, his voice edged with a mixture of caution and defiance. He aimed Riptide at the merchant, his instincts yelling at him to be prepared for any threat.
To their surprise, the merchant's reaction was far from what they had anticipated. He let out a hearty laugh that echoed through the shop like a soothing melody. His gaze held an amused twinkle as he regarded Percy's defensive stance.
"Easy there, Percy Jackson," the merchant said, his voice carrying a tone of genuine amusement. "There's no need for hostility here."
Nico's eyes narrowed as he exchanged a wary glance with Percy. How did the merchant know Percy's name? And how could he be so calm in the face of a drawn weapon?
"We're not looking for trouble," Nico spoke up, his voice tinged with caution.
The merchant's smile remained unchanged, his demeanor unwavering in the face of their weapons. "I assure you, I am no enemy," he said calmly. "In fact, I only wish to provide a refuge for demigods like yourselves, a place where you can heal and find sanctuary."
As the merchant continued to speak, his gaze steady, Percy's grip on Riptide loosened. He forced himself to listen, to push past the paranoia that threatened to cloud his judgment. Maybe, just maybe, this merchant was genuine. Percy took a deep breath, consciously easing the tension in his shoulders. He reminded himself that they were still in control.
The merchant's voice continued catching Percy off guard. "If you're in need of a place to rest," he said, his gaze steady and unwavering, "I own a quaint bed and breakfast attached to the back of this shop. It's hidden from the mortal world."
Percy exchanged a surprised glance with Nico. Percy's thoughts immediately drifted to their battles, the countless nights spent sleeping under the stars or in makeshift shelters. The idea of a soft bed, warm food, and a sheltered space sounded like heaven. The exhaustion from their recent encounter with Python only heightened their yearning for comfort and safety.
Percy's gaze returned to the merchant, his guard still present but now tempered with gratitude. "We appreciate your kindness," he said sincerely. "But how do we know we can trust you?"
"We also don't have that kind of money," Nico mumbled.
The merchant nodded understandingly, his expression patient. "I understand your caution. Trust must be earned in a world where deception is a constant threat." He gestured to the store around them, the shelves stocked with supplies tailored to their needs. "I've been helping demigods like you for a long time, providing a haven in times of need. I can assure you that my intentions are genuine. And free of charge," he winked at Nico, adding the last part.
Nico's gaze met Percy's, and they exchanged a silent conversation. Undoubtedly, it was a risk, but something about the merchant's presence felt genuine. Their instincts were still on high alert, but the opportunity for respite and a momentary reprieve was too alluring to pass up.
"We'll take you up on your offer," Percy finally said. "A bed and breakfast sounds... amazing right now."
The merchant's smile was warm and reassuring. "I'm glad to be of assistance. Follow me, and I'll show you the way."
As they were led through the store and into a section that seemed to seamlessly transition from the shop, Percy and Nico felt a sense of anticipation. The merchant opened a door, revealing a charming Victorian-style house nestled among the trees. The exterior exuded a sense of tranquility, a stark contrast to the battles they had just faced.
They found themselves surrounded by a cozy atmosphere, clean linens, a hot shower, and a hearty meal awaiting them. Their eyes were immediately drawn to the two inviting beds that awaited them, offering a promise of rest and solace after the trials they had endured. The exhaustion that had settled deep within their bones seemed to fade as they took in the comfort around them.
Without hesitation, Percy headed for the adjoining bathroom first. The sound of running water soon filled the air as the showers came to life. Percy stood beneath the cascading water, feeling the coolness soothe his heated skin. He let out a sigh of relief as the water seemed to wash away the residual tension, the memories of the battle against Python, and the dirt and grime that clung to him. He used the water to heal most of his minor wounds, the water shimmering with a faint blue glow as it aided in his recovery.
However, there were injuries that the water couldn't fully mend. His bruised ribcage protested with each breath, a constant reminder of the force he had endured. And his ankle, likely sprained during the encounter, throbbed beneath the water's touch. He clenched his teeth, pushing through the discomfort, knowing that a night of rest would do wonders for his body's natural healing abilities.
As he stepped out of the shower, he couldn't help but grimace at the ache in his ribcage, and his ankle protested with every step. He dried off quickly and changed into the spare clothes he had brought. Fresh clothes felt like a small luxury after the dust and sweat of battle.
Nico took his turn in the shower, the cool water a soothing balm against his exhausted body and burning skin. Nico stood beneath the stream of water, his movements careful and deliberate. He couldn't risk reopening his slowly closing chest wound, so he avoided the direct spray over that area. The water helped cleanse away the dirt and blood, and for a brief moment, he allowed himself to close his eyes and simply enjoy the sensation of being clean.
After his shower, Nico found himself alone in the bathroom, his shirtless reflection staring back at him from the mirror. The soft lighting cast a warm glow, highlighting the faint scars and battle-worn skin that adorned his torso. His gaze was drawn to the center of his chest, where the wound from the recent battle with Python was still very much visible.
The red and inflamed skin of the slow-closing wound stood out starkly against his pale complexion. He couldn't help but trace his fingers over the sensitive area, feeling the slight heat emanating from the injured skin. The memory of the blade's point, only inches away from his heart, sent a shiver down his spine.
In the quiet of the bathroom, he allowed himself a moment of vulnerability, his thoughts tracing back to the fight that had brought them to this point. The rush of adrenaline, the hiss of the dragon, and the desperate clash of steel all played like a haunting melody in his mind. The realization that he had narrowly escaped a fatal blow was heavy. With a deep breath, Nico tore his gaze away from the mirror.
When he emerged from the bathroom, Percy was waiting for him, concern etched in his features. "You okay?" Percy asked.
Nico nodded, a faint smile gracing his lips. "Yeah, just taking it easy."
Percy's worry didn't dissipate, but he nodded in understanding. "I found a first aid kit. We should probably dress your wound."
Nico nodded. They moved over to a small table where a first aid kit was laid out. Percy carefully unwrapped the gauze and began to help Nico wrap his chest.
Nico's muscles tensed slightly, a reflexive reaction to the touch on the sensitive area. There was a persistent ache in his chest, one that he had grown strangely accustomed to since the moment the blade had pierced him. With every inhale and exhale, he felt the ache deepen. Breathing itself had become a challenge, a conscious effort that required him to focus through the discomfort.
Finally, they each made their way to their respective beds, collapsing onto the soft mattresses with a heavy sigh. The weight of their experiences seemed to settle in around them, the adrenaline of battle replaced by the exhaustion that followed.
Percy's gaze was distant as he lay on the bed, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts. The day's events played out like a reel in his mind, but what resonated the most were the words Python had spoken. The dragon's mention of a prophecy that Percy had been unaware of struck a chord within him, igniting a fire of curiosity.
Theseus. The name echoed in his thoughts. The idea that he was somehow connected to Theseus, that their fates might be intertwined, sent a shiver down his spine. Percy's mind raced, wondering how Python could have known these details, wondering what significance they held in the grand scheme of things.
As he lay there, he found his thoughts branching into myriad directions. Where had this ancient creature come from, and why had it chosen this moment to confront him? Python's anger and hatred seemed personal, as if it had a specific bone to pick with Percy.
Why now? And why is it always me? These questions echoed in his mind. The weight of the prophecy, of Python's knowledge, pressed down on him, stirring unease within him. With a sigh, Percy closed his eyes, his thoughts swirling in the darkness behind his eyelids.
Nico lay on his bed, his eyes half-closed as he tried to find some semblance of comfort. The bed felt like a cloud compared to the hard ground they had been sleeping on during their travels. He glanced at Percy, his friend's silhouette bathed in the soft glow of the room's dim lighting.
As his gaze lingered on Percy, Nico's thoughts wandered to the events of the day. The fight with Python had been intense. But it wasn't just the battle that occupied his mind. It was the cryptic words the dragon had spoken, the mention of a prophecy, and the connection to Theseus.
With a sigh, Nico closed his eyes, letting the darkness of the room envelop him. Sleep beckoned, a temporary escape from the tumultuous thoughts that swirled within his mind. He knew that the mysteries of the prophecy, the echoes of Theseus, and the enigma of Python would continue to haunt him. But for now, he allowed himself the luxury of rest, hoping that tomorrow would bring clarity to the questions that danced at the edge of his consciousness.
After two days of recuperation and gathering their strength, Percy and Nico stood outside, ready to embark on the journey back home to New York. The weight of their experiences in New Mexico had left its mark, and the familiar streets of Percy's neighborhood seemed like a distant memory they were eager to return to.
After saying their thanks, Nico's fingers extended toward the shadows, his control over them well-practiced. The duo disappeared into the inky darkness, jumping great distances every few hundred miles to expedite their journey. Days were spent resting and recovering in the shadows, while nights were dedicated to their travels. The continuous exertion of his powers, however, began to take its toll on Nico.
As they finally materialized in front of Percy's house in New York, a sense of exhaustion clung to them like a heavy shroud. The weariness was etched into their expressions, but the prospect of being home rejuvenated their spirits.
As Nico touched the familiar pavement, his knees buckled, a gasp escaping his lips. His hand instinctively went to his chest, fingers clawing at his shirt as a searing pain radiated from the wound. Blood stained the fabric, a stark reminder that the overuse of his powers had reawakened the injury he had been nursing.
Percy, his energy spent and breath ragged from the exertion of their journey, was at Nico's side in an instant. He held onto his friend, concern and panic warring in his expression. "Nico, are you okay?" he asked, his voice edged with worry.
Nico's breathing was shallow, and his face was pale as he fought to steady himself. He managed a weak nod, his voice strained as he replied, "I'm fine... just... my chest..."
Percy's heart raced as he surveyed the situation. He knew they needed to get Nico inside and tended to immediately. He wrapped an arm around Nico's waist, providing support as they staggered toward the front door.
Using the last of his strength, Percy pushed open the door to his house, revealing a scene that sent shockwaves through his already worn-out body. Sally and Paul were sitting on the couch, a look of surprise frozen on their faces as they took in the sight of Percy dragging a bleeding Nico into the house.
"Percy!" Sally exclaimed, her voice a mixture of worry and disbelief.
Paul was on his feet in an instant, his medical instincts kicking in. "Get him to the couch," he directed, his voice steady as he rushed to gather supplies.
Percy's arms trembled with the effort as he eased Nico onto the couch, his breaths coming in labored pants. Blood stained Nico's shirt, and Percy's heart clenched at the sight. "Nico," he said urgently, his eyes locked on his friend's pale face.
Sally and Paul moved swiftly, Paul working to tend to Nico's wound while Sally fetched clean towels and water.
Sally turned her attention to Percy, who stood before her with tears welling up in his eyes. Without a word, Percy wrapped his arms around his mom, seeking comfort and reassurance.
As Percy nestled into her embrace, the floodgates of his emotions opened. Tears welled in his eyes, a mix of relief, fatigue, and the sheer weight of everything he had endured. The battles, the injuries, and the constant uncertainty had left him mentally and physically spent.
"I'm so tired, Mom," Percy whispered, his voice barely audible.
Sally's grip on him tightened, her eyes filling with tears as she felt the depth of his exhaustion. "I know, sweetheart," she murmured, her voice a gentle balm. "We'll take care of you both. You're safe now."
As Percy released a shuddering breath, Sally held him a moment longer, allowing him to find a moment of peace in her embrace. She knew that the life of a demigod was filled with perils and challenges, but seeing her son this drained and vulnerable reminded her of just how much he carried on his young shoulders.
Paul, ever the calm and collected presence, continued to tend to Nico's wound. He offered soothing words to ease the pain, his experienced hands moving with precision. He glanced over at Percy and Sally, his expression filled with understanding. He had seen the toll that battles could take on demigods, both physically and emotionally.
Nico's chest wound, while serious, wasn't as dire as it could have been. The adrenaline that had kept him going during their journey had masked some of the pain, but now, the ache was becoming more pronounced as the quiet settled around them. He focused on his breathing, trying to find a rhythm to match the calm in the room.
Sally led Percy to the nearby couch, where he gratefully sank down. She gently wiped away the dirt and tears from his face, her touch comforting and tender. "You two look like you've been through hell," she said softly, concern evident in her voice.
Percy managed a weak smile. "Yeah, something like that."
"Tell us what happened," Paul said, his gentle voice filled with concern, as he kept a careful eye on Nico's wounds as the teenager struggled to sit up.
And so, between breaths, Percy and Nico recounted their perilous journey and the battle with Python- minus the details about Theseus. After sharing their story, exhaustion finally overcame Percy and Nico. Their eyes drooped, and they could barely keep themselves awake. Sally and Paul exchanged glances, silently agreeing to give the boys the rest they needed.
Sally gently caressed Percy's cheek, offering a tender smile. "You need to rest, sweetheart."
Nico managed a grateful nod as Paul finished tending to last-minute details of his wound. "Thanks, Mr. Blofis," he said weakly.
"You're welcome, Nico," Paul replied with a warm smile. "Call me Paul."
With that, the boys were led to Percy's room, where they gratefully sank into beds, relieved to be back home. Sally and Paul had thoughtfully prepared a temporary blow-up bed in Percy's room, understanding that the two boys would need a few days to recover from their harrowing ordeal. The soft glow of a bedside lamp provided a warm ambiance in Percy's room, casting gentle shadows that seemed to soothe their tired souls. Sally had left a pitcher of water and some snacks on the nightstand, anticipating their needs even in the late hours of the night.
Nico sunk into Percy's mattress – Percy had insisted that he take the bed because of his injuries – and the blankets enveloped him like a comforting embrace. Meanwhile, Percy found solace in the air mattress next to him. The boys exchanged tired but grateful glances, both happy to be back in safety after their treacherous journey.
A few days had passed since their return from the chaotic events in New Mexico, and the tension between the demigods had yet to dissipate completely. Percy and Nico found themselves in the living room, the atmosphere still holding a hint of unease. Percy leaned against the kitchen island, casually munching on a bowl of cereal, while Nico sat on the couch, his expression a mixture of boredom and frustration.
Nico let out an audible groan, throwing his head back against the couch cushions after his failed attempt of surfing through channels on the TV to find something to watch. "I'm sick of being stuck inside. Can we go out today? I promise I feel better- my wound is completely healed."
Percy paused mid-chew, considering the idea. He took a moment to swallow his cereal before responding. "Yeah, I think that's a good idea. How about going to the Aquarium?"
Nico turned his head to look at Percy, an eyebrow raised. "The aquarium? Is my presence so boring that you have to resort to talking to fish at the aquarium?"
Percy laughed at Nico's comment, his cereal spoon hovering midair. "Yes, Nico. Fish have more of a personality than you."
Nico's lips curled into a sneer as he shot Percy a glare. "Whatever, Fish Boy."
Percy continued to chuckle, "So, is that a yes?"
Nico rolled his eyes, "Fine. It beats sitting inside all day."
The two demigods found themselves walking through the bustling streets of New York City, heading toward the grand entrance of the aquarium. A large poster on the side of the building announced the opening of a brand new sea turtle exhibit. They passed several news vans parked around the entrance as they entered, probably here to cover the unveiling.
Percy was practically bouncing from excitement, his sea-green eyes shining like the waves on a sunny day. Despite his cool exterior, Nico couldn't help but feel a sense of relief at finally being out of the house.
Percy's excitement grew as they wandered through the various sections of the aquarium. He pointed out different fish species, rattling off facts about each one, and tried to engage Nico in conversations about marine life. Nico responded with casual indifference, occasionally offering a nod or a grunt.
Percy's enthusiasm peaked as they approached a massive tank housing a group of sharks. The sharks swam lazily in the massive tank, their sleek bodies gliding through the water with a grace that spoke of ages spent mastering the depths. Percy's hands were pressed against the glass, a mixture of wonder and concern etched across his features as their thoughts entered his mind.
"These humans keep staring at us like we're circus performers. If one more child bangs on the glass, I'm going to drown myself," thought one of the sharks, its mental voice dripping with irritation.
Percy winced at the sharpness of the sentiment. He turned to Nico, his expression serious as he relayed what he had just heard. "They just said they're sick of being stared at like objects in a sideshow."
Nico shrugged, an eyebrow raised slightly. "What do you expect us to do about it?"
Percy focused his attention back on the sharks. Their thoughts were a bluster of emotions—frustration, boredom, and a deep yearning for the open sea. He allowed his connection with the aquatic world to deepen, and slowly, his mind reached out to the thoughts of the sharks.
"Hey there," Percy thought, projecting his mental voice into the watery realm of their minds.
The sharks seemed surprised, their mental currents rippling with shock and curiosity. "Who's there? Are we finally losing it and hearing voices now?"
Percy's mental projection held a hint of amusement. "No, you're not losing it. My name is Percy. I'm the son of Poseidon," he introduced himself as the three sharks brought themselves closer to the glass to see him.
The sharks exchanged glances, their skepticism evident. "Son of Poseidon, huh? So what do you want, sea-talker?"
"Whoa whoa whoa, I come in peace!" Percy replied in his mind, before his tone softened. "Look, I couldn't help but hear what you guys were saying. No one likes to be gawked at like a carnival sideshow. I know you're not happy here, and I just might have a way to help."
One of the older sharks spoke up. "We've tried communicating our concerns, but the humans don't understand us. They think we're just stupid animals."
Nico observed Percy's interaction, "What are you doing?"
Without looking, Percy waved his hand off to the side and shushed Nico out loud before continuing his mental conversation with the sharks. Nico rolled his eyes and threw his hands up in exasperation but waited nonetheless for Percy to finish.
"Humans are stupid! You're beautiful, noble sand tigers, right? Let's get the people out here to see you for what you really are. Create chaos– something they can't ignore. If you all start swimming around crazily and splashing, it'll definitely grab their attention."
The sharks exchanged thoughtful glances, the weight of Percy's proposal sinking in. "You really think it would work?"
Percy's mental voice held a spark of hope. "It's worth a shot, right? And if we succeed, maybe we can get them to treat you with more respect."
The eldest shark spoke again, "We'll give it a try. But if this doesn't work, don't think we won't hold you responsible, sea-talker."
Percy's mental projection chuckled. "I can handle that. Let's make some waves."
With their agreement reached, Percy withdrew from the mental connection, his sea-green eyes focusing back on Nico, a triumphant smile on his face. "I just had a chat with our shark friends. They're on board with creating a distraction."
Still visibly annoyed at being shushed, Nico crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow. "Oh, wonderful. And what kind of distraction are they planning?"
Percy's grin widened. "A fish riot."
Nico's annoyance gave way to astonishment, and he couldn't help but laugh a little. "A fish riot? You really are a force of nature."
As they watched, the sharks began to swim with newfound purpose, picking up speed and splashing water against the tank walls. Other fish in neighboring tanks took notice and joined in the spectacle. The aquarium visitors and staff were drawn to the chaos, focusing on the aquatic rebellion unfolding before them.
Nico placed both his hands in his pockets, "You really know how to stir things up. Now what?"
Percy's grin turned mischievous. "Just gonna add a little extra drama."
As the water splashed and the chaos intensified, Percy subtly flicked his fingers, his mastery over the water allowing him to manipulate it effortlessly. The water inside the largest tank suddenly exploded upward and outward in a majestic cascade. A deluge of water drenched the visitors and workers, catching them by surprise.
Screams filled the air as people stumbled and ran in all directions, their attempts to find shelter from the unexpected downpour creating even more chaos.
Nico burst into laughter, his annoyance wholly forgotten.
As the chaos continued to unfold within the aquarium, several of the reporters peeked into the room to see what was causing the commotion. Eager to get the best shot, the news teams began running into the Ocean Wonders: Sharks! exhibit, pushing through the surge of visitors to set up their equipment.
Cameras swung into action, capturing the scenes of splashing water, flustered visitors, and the riotous fish that had sparked the commotion. Percy and Nico watched from the fringes of the chaos, their laughter gradually subsiding as they observed the pandemonium they had inadvertently triggered. The flashing lights of the news cameras added a surreal element to the scene, turning the entire situation into something straight out of a movie.
The news reporters and cameramen scrambled to capture the most dramatic moments. Some positioned themselves strategically, aiming their cameras at the tanks where the fish were splashing with newfound fervor. Others interviewed staff members and visitors, their questions punctuated by shouts and panicked voices.
A news reporter, a microphone thrust forward with an air of urgency, approached Percy and Nico. She had a determined expression on her face, ready to capture the story unfolding before her.
"Excuse me, gentlemen! Can you tell us what's happening here?"
Percy exchanged a glance with Nico, a grin tugging at the corner of his lips. Nico rolled his eyes, his amusement evident despite himself. Percy stepped forward, his charismatic persona taking over.
Percy cleared his throat, his expression turning slightly serious for the cameras. "Well, it's been a crazy day here at the aquarium. All of a sudden, the fish just started getting rowdy, splashing around like they were trying to tell us something. It's like they've had enough of the spotlight, you know?"
The news reporter leaned in, her eyes wide with curiosity. "And what do you think caused this sudden behavior?"
Percy shrugged dramatically, his hands raised in a gesture of innocence. "I don't know, man! It just happened out of nowhere! Maybe they wanted to break free from the routine."
Nico couldn't help but smirk at Percy's flair for storytelling. He leaned in, speaking up. "Yeah, you know, sometimes fish just need to let loose, too."
The reporter chuckled before continuing, "I suppose they do. Now, do you have anything else to say about what you're seeing here today?"
"As a matter of fact, yes I do." Percy snatched the microphone from the woman's hand and faced the camera head-on. "This should be a lesson to everyone watching that sharks aren't things to be kept in a case and stared at. Animals like these shouldn't be kept in a tank, and this scene around me just proves their power. They deserve respect too, and if there's one thing we can learn–"
Nico tried to keep a straight face, but as Percy's heartfelt speech continued, he couldn't help himself. He was barely out of frame of the news camera when loud peals of laughter forced themselves out of him, and he had to lean on a bench to steady himself.