Whispering Shadows /pjo applyfic - DISCONTINUED

The Claiming

Chapter 8: The Claiming

Percy's Point of View

The claiming ceremony at Camp Half-Blood had always been a pivotal event, filled with a mix of excitement and awe. But today, as Percy Jackson stood among the other campers, he could feel the heaviness in the air. The usual energy of the ceremony was missing, replaced by a palpable tension.

Percy glanced around at the gathered campers. There was a distinct undercurrent of discomfort, and it was clear that the presence of Gaea—who was involved in the recent conflicts with the camp—was not well-received. Percy's own feelings were a mix of frustration and resentment. Gaea was a symbol of many things he'd fought against, and seeing her symbol was a reminder of past battles he would rather forget.

Chiron's voice cut through the murmur of discontent. "Campers, it's time for the claiming ceremony. For those being claimed today, please step forward to the altar. The gods will reveal themselves through their symbols."

Adrien approached the altar with a mixture of hope and anxiety. Percy could see the uncertainty in his posture, but Adrien seemed unaware of the full context. To him, this was a significant and personal moment, unmarred by the camp's collective history with Gaea.

As Adrien stood before the altar, a soft, shimmering light began to envelop him. Percy watched as the light grew brighter, casting a warm glow around Adrien. The symbols representing the gods began to materialize above his head. Percy's eyes narrowed as he saw the symbol taking shape—a swirling, ancient emblem associated with Gaea.

Percy felt a surge of frustration as he saw the symbol. Gaea's presence was a painful reminder of the conflicts and struggles he had endured. The campers' reactions were muted, their unease evident. Percy's own disdain for Gaea colored his view of the ceremony, and he could see that Adrien was still coming to terms with the significance of the symbol.

The symbol hovered above Adrien's head, and Percy watched as Adrien's expression shifted from confusion to a kind of awe. Adrien didn't seem to understand the full implications of his parentage, and Percy felt a pang of sympathy for him, despite his own feelings about Gaea.

As the light began to fade, Percy approached Adrien, trying to offer support despite his own feelings. "Hey, Adrien," Percy said, his voice softer than he felt. "I know this is overwhelming. Seeing your godly parent's symbol can be intense."

Adrien looked at Percy, still trying to process the moment. "Yeah, it's a lot to take in. I didn't know what to expect, but now I'm just trying to understand what it all means."

Percy gave him a reassuring nod, though his own thoughts were far from positive. "It's a big deal, for sure. You'll have time to figure things out. And remember, you're not alone in this. We're here to help you."

Adrien nodded appreciatively, though he seemed to be still processing the situation. "Thanks, Percy. I'm just trying to make sense of everything."

As the campers began to disperse, Percy stayed close to Adrien, offering what support he could. Despite his personal feelings, Percy knew that Adrien needed guidance and understanding as he navigated his new reality. The ceremony had marked the beginning of a complex journey for Adrien, and Percy was determined to be there for him.

Percy glanced back at the altar, where the last traces of the divine symbol had faded. The ceremony had been a reminder of the difficult and often painful nature of life at Camp Half-Blood. Percy hoped that, despite the challenges, Adrien would find his place and come to terms with his heritage.