◇Children Of The Realms◇ [Percy Jackson AU]

Hazel

[PDV Hazel]

The day of the meeting with Prince Percy of Okeanos and his parents, King Donàs and Queen Amftryti, had finally arrived. Hazel felt like a puppet in the hands of fate, each step through the vast corridors of the Okeanos castle bringing her inexorably closer to her uncertain future.

Her brother, Nico, stood by her side, his hand firmly grasping hers in a gesture of silent support as they passed through the majestic doors of the Okeanos castle. Hazel couldn't help but notice the grandeur and splendor of the architecture, the imposing columns and frescoes adorning the walls, witnesses to a long and glorious history.

They were greeted by a joyful fanfare and the resounding announcements of their arrival, adding to Hazel's already palpable nervousness. She took a deep breath and entered the great hall, where King Donàs and Queen Amftryti awaited them with royal dignity.

King Donàs, imposing in his stature and severe expression, sat on his throne, while Queen Amftryti, of enchanting beauty, radiated grace at his side. Hazel felt a surge of nervousness as she stood before them.

Then her eyes met those of Prince Percy, and everything else seemed to fade away. His dark hair, his hypnotic ocean-blue eyes... Percy smiled at her a bit awkwardly, but it had a calming effect on Hazel, as if a weight had been lifted from her shoulders.

As the kings exchanged pleasantries and speeches, Percy approached Hazel and Nico, a slight embarrassment in his demeanor. "Hi," he began, rubbing his neck nervously. "I'm really sorry you didn't have a choice in all this."

Hazel returned his smile gently. "Don't worry, you didn't have a choice either," she replied, easing the tension between them.

Nico, still beside them, watched attentively. "So, Percy," he said with a teasing smile, "what are your hobbies? Besides rubbing your neck, of course."

Percy laughed, his nervousness dissipating. "Well, Nico," he replied with spirit, "I enjoy horseback riding, navigating the tumultuous seas, and... rubbing my neck, apparently."

Percy's light tone made Hazel and Nico burst into laughter, creating an unexpected bond between them. As the conversation continued, Hazel felt a glimmer of hope in her heart. Perhaps, despite the circumstances, this arranged marriage could bring unexpected surprises and joys. And with Percy by her side, maybe everything wouldn't be so dark after all.

[Percy's POV]

As the dinner at the Okeanos castle came to an end, Percy discreetly observed Hazel and Nico, seated across the table. Hazel was strikingly beautiful, her golden eyes shining with intelligence and determination, her long brown hair framing her mixed-race face. Yet, despite her captivating appearance, Percy felt no romantic stirrings toward her. As for Nico, with his black hair falling in curls over his shoulders and his dark eyes, he exuded an aura of mystery and calm.

The dinner was a silent confrontation, each bite accompanied by the heavy weight of uncertainty that hung over them. Then, like an impending storm, King Donàs finally broke the silence.

"Marriage," he began gravely, "is a serious matter. It is time you understand your responsibilities to your kingdoms."

Percy inwardly sighed. Oh, what joy, he thought sarcastically, to be deprived of any choice in something as important as marriage. The fate sealed by his parents' wills was a bitter farce, a monotonous dance in the chains of duty.

At the end of dinner, Percy seized an opportunity to break the monotony. "Father," he began, a glimmer of defiance in his eyes, "I think it would be beneficial for Hazel and Nico to get to know our castle better. Why not let them explore a bit?"