Wrath of a Halfblood (A Percy Jackson Fanfic)

2.1

"You can't rot here forever, Persephone." A deep voice called out from the door.

The current pulled at Percy's ever-flowing hair as she turned to meet her brother Triton's gaze. Her brother didn't look much like their shared father. He was a merman with two fishtails instead of one. He looked about Percy's age, had green skin, and shared the same shade of long black hair as her, though his was straight where hers moved like the waves. His golden armor, studded with pearls, glistened with each fluid movement. 

When she didn't answer, he huffed in announce and entered her room without invitation. He floated through the water and sat at the foot of her bed, trying to rouse her from her vacant state. 

"Father is worried.  You haven't even greeted Rhode yet and she is rather insistent on some sisterly bonding time. Not to mention your insufferable suitors sniffing around the throne room-" the hoarse growl of Percy cut off Triton, "I don't have suitors." 

"So, she does speak?" The Sea Prince mocked, "Believe what you wish but there seems to be a brewing battle for your hand... Get dressed, I will not allow you to sit in this dungeon of your own design and waste away." Triton pulled the sheets from her form, waving in the sea nymphs to ready her by force if necessary. 

"Make sure she is properly washed and oiled. I will wait for you in the hall, sister, and if you are not ready within the hour I will drag you out regardless of your state of dress." With that Triton was gone, no doubt counting the seconds. 

Percy was unceremoniously dragged out of bed as more prayers flooded her mind, causing a massive headache to resurface. The water had helped but there was only so much protecting her father's domain could provide to buffer from her growing worship. 

They burned her portions of their meals, just like she herself had done back at camp half-blood. She wondered what Annabeth would think about her expanding following. 

"You don't need the ego boost, sea-weed brain, your head is big enough as it is." She could practically hear the teasing from her wise girl. 

Annabeth would have loved the architecture of Atlantis, no doubt studying every coral pillar and analyzing how currents might change the layout over time. Her heart ached with longing as she thought about the daughter of Athena.

She didn't even glance in the mirror as the nymphs completed their work. No doubt she had been made up to Aphrodite's standards to look like a perfect sea goddess. She was hurried out the door where Triton stood waiting. 

She paused her walk for a moment, grabbing onto the wall as another wave of prayers hit her at once. Her legs weakened as she clung to the groves in the coral to remain upright. Triton was quick to grab her arm and help her stand. His eyes glistened with hidden worry but he didn't comment on it as she righted herself and continued to float through the water. 

Triton remained closer to her, just in case it happened again. 

The closer they drew to the throne room they could hear the multitude of raised voices barking at each other. 

"You will not keep her hidden away! I demand to see her!" 

"I can help her! I've been through this myself if you just let me-"

"She is under my hospitality still! I have a right to know of her well-being!" 

"My daughter is well cared for in her father's house! How dare you come into my domain and question me!" 

Each voice grew in arrogant outrage. Triton gripped her arm ready to lead her away from the fighting but Percy was quick to shake off his hold and march into the throne room herself.