9. Sally, Percy's mother.
Damian watched the outside world through the van window, feeling slightly overwhelmed. It had been over a year since he last left camp, and the chaos and energy of the city felt like an entirely different world. Sitting next to Annabeth, he tried to focus on what was familiar: the sound of her voice discussing mythology with Percy or the watchful gaze of Argus, keeping an eye on everything with his many eyes.
When they finally stopped, Annabeth helped Damian out of the van. Percy looked a bit lost and out of place, while Annabeth, as always, was confident and ready to lead them through the city. Argus set a meeting point and stayed nearby, his omnipresent gaze ever-vigilant.
Chiron had given each of them a small amount of U.S. dollars, and Damian began thinking about what he could buy. The first thing that came to mind was clothes—his were getting a bit too small and worn. Then he thought about art supplies—drawing had become his refuge, and Annabeth had taught him many techniques he wanted to try. Maybe a journal, he thought. Writing down his thoughts and feelings might help him organize the confusion inside him.
Annabeth noticed his distant look and gave him a gentle pat on the shoulder. "Everything okay, Damian? Have you decided what you want to buy?"
Damian nodded slowly, keeping his usual silence, then added in a whisper, "Clothes... and a journal." Annabeth smiled, always patient. "Alright, let's find a good place."
Meanwhile, Percy seemed fascinated by everything, from the advertising screens to the grocery stores, looking even more out of place in the mortal world than Damian felt. But Annabeth had a plan: she first took them to a budget clothing store, where Damian found a few simple but comfortable pieces. Annabeth helped him choose and check prices, while Percy joked about how hard it was to pick between two nearly identical shirts.
After choosing the clothes, Annabeth brought Damian to a stationery shop. His face lit up at the sight of shelves filled with pencils, notebooks, and colors. He carefully picked a small dark-covered journal and some drawing pencils. When he paid at the counter, he felt almost happy, as if those items gave him something tangible to hold onto.
"Do you want to stop anywhere else?" Annabeth asked as they left. Damian shook his head, clutching the bag with his purchases. "No, thanks," he murmured.
Percy returned shortly after, carrying a bag of snacks and a bottle of water. "I found an amazing bakery!" he exclaimed, as Annabeth rolled her eyes. Damian managed a small smile, watching him with curiosity. Percy seemed so at ease, as if he had all the time in the world. In that moment, Damian wished he could feel the same.
Damian felt a bit out of place as they entered the Jacksons' apartment. It was his first time in a real home in a long while, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere struck him immediately. The apartment was modest but thoughtfully decorated. The walls were adorned with photographs and small objects that told a story of love and resilience.
Sally Jackson greeted them with a radiant smile and a warm hug for Percy. Annabeth already seemed at ease, but Damian hesitated, staying close behind her. Sally quickly noticed his reserved demeanor and bent slightly to speak to him in a gentle voice. "It's nice to meet you, Damian. I'm Sally. No need to call me Mrs. Jackson—it makes me feel old!" she joked, coaxing a small, uncertain smile from him.
Percy chuckled. "Damian doesn't talk much, but he's a great listener." Sally nodded understandingly. "That's perfectly fine. You're welcome here, Damian, and you don't have to talk if you don't want to." Those simple words eased some of the tension Damian felt inside.
While Sally prepared lunch, Damian observed intently. The kitchen, though small, was highly functional, and a delicious aroma began to fill the air. Percy and Annabeth helped set the table, while Damian hung back, quietly watching. When Sally placed a small makeshift hearth with a lit candle on the table, she explained, "I know you're used to offering to the gods, so I thought this might be helpful."
Damian was touched by the gesture. It was clear Sally wasn't a demigod, yet she showed genuine respect for their world. When it came time for the offerings, Percy murmured a prayer to Poseidon, Annabeth dedicated hers to Athena, and Damian, with a hint of melancholy, offered his prayer to his unknown divine parent.
Lunch was extraordinary. Sally had made a meat pie with vegetables on the side and an apple pie for dessert. Damian ate slowly, savoring every bite. It was different from the camp food: not only delicious but made with genuine care.
During the meal, Sally spoke casually, sharing little anecdotes about Percy as a child, which made him blush and laugh at the same time. Annabeth listened with interest, while Damian observed silently. He wasn't used to this kind of familiarity—the ease of sharing stories and exchanging smiles. He wondered if this was what a family felt like, something he had never truly experienced.
After lunch, Sally served the pie with tea, and they all settled on the couch or scattered chairs, chatting. Percy seemed more relaxed than ever, and even Annabeth had let her guard down a bit. Damian, with a full stomach and a slightly lighter heart, realized that this moment would stay with him. It wasn't quite his family, but for now, he felt accepted and safe.