Percy's not okay

A Birthday Memory

Percy's P.O.V.

I looked at my dad wondering what was going through his mind. I could tell he was upset about what I had been through and wanted to wrap me up in bubble wrap and not let me out of his sight. I understood why he thought like that. Iris then brought up another memory and I smiled at what she had up.

Upstate, New York, a metropolis of splendor and gloom, witnessed a remarkable event behind the historic walls of Wayne Manor. The house, which was well recognized as a haven for New York's wealthy, was teeming with more than just ordinary wealth. Young Percy Jackson's impending fifth birthday has sparked an exciting mood of anticipation. The apartment's interior design subtly alluded to the duality that Percy would eventually have to deal with. A cake with a creatively displayed bat symbol filled the spacious ballroom. While many might consider it an odd choice for a child's birthday, those familiar with the Jackson saga might have seen a hint of what was to come for Percy. Attendees of the celebration continued to be unaware of the important lesson taught during the day.

There is no other way to describe Sally Jackson but as the epitome of grace and charisma. Because of her careful preparation, the party was not just another high-society event but a riot of delight for her cherished kid. Children laugh, acclaim for acrobats, and astonishment at magicians' tricks filled the manor's large hall. Nevertheless, among the variety of entertainment, The Tale of Two Faces, a puppet show, captured the attention of both young and senior guests.

Together with his old friends, Percy was absorbed in the story. A treasure hunt game was announced to be played after the puppet show. There were hints hidden all over the building that led to the big prize. The students were divided into teams, some with more hints than others, but there was a small catch. It was intended to promote communication and cooperation among them.

As the game continued, it became clear that not everyone understood the puppet show's message. Motivated by the possibility of winning the ultimate prize, some kids stockpiled clues and disregarded those who had fewer. Percy felt excluded because he had previously been on a team with fewer hints. Nevertheless, he adopted a new perspective on the game, refusing to give in to the competitive mania. He started to bargain, share, and work together with others in the true spirit of a team.

Although not the first, Percy's crew was praised for their camaraderie and teamwork once the hunt was over. The hoarders experienced shame as they realized their victory's hollowness because it was earned alone. Instead of the treasure itself, it was found that the concrete rewards of the hunt were the friendships formed and the lessons learned. Sally Jackson took some time to explain the significance of the day's lesson to her son in the calm moments following the festivities as night fell over New York. Beyond the stories about puppets and treasure hunts, it was the essence of making judgments based on morality and compassion. Years later, this innate sense of light, shadow, and right and wrong would be the cornerstone of Percy's ethos.

In retrospect, Percy Jackson's birthday was more than just a reason to celebrate; it served as a milestone in his life. It taught him that every decision has a shadow, and it is up to each person to choose whether their shadow is one of light or darkness. The cautionary tale from the puppet play and the lesson in humility and cooperation from the treasure quest left a lasting impression on world's future protector.

Dad held me tighter that he had originally been doing, but I could tell he was smiling at the memory. I leaned closer to him and let him worry about me for I now knew that I was loved by my immortal parent, and that is all that mattered to me anyways.

"So that is where you got your moral compass from?" Artemis asked.

"Yes Lady Artemis," I told her. "My mother made sure I had a good sense of morality." Artemis just nodded at that. I could also tell that dad was thinking about something that was bothering him.