The sun was beginning to dip below the treeline, casting long, golden shadows across Camp Half-Blood.
Percy Jackson was sitting on the dock by the canoe lake, staring at his reflection in the water. He looked tired. The kind of tired that sleep didn't fix.
He hadn't spoken properly to Theo in weeks. Every attempt to get close was met with a wall of polite, rigid distance.
It was driving him crazy, but he was trying his best to respect it. He was trying to be normal.
Suddenly, the water in front of him shimmered and swirled without warning.
"Oh," Percy blinked. "Hey Mom."
The image of Sally Jackson formed in the mist. She looked concerned, her brow furrowed as she looked him up and down, her gaze soft and searching, as if she could reach right through the water and hold him.
"Percy," she said softly, her voice like a warm blanket wrapping around him. "I just... I had a feeling. Something felt off. And I was right."
Percy immediately plastered on his biggest, brightest smile. He sat up straighter, trying to look like nothing was wrong in the world.
"Hey Mom! Everything is great! Perfect actually! The weather is nice, the food is..."
"Percy," Sally interrupted gently, not harshly, but with that knowing tone that always made him feel seen. "You're slumping your left shoulder. And you're picking at your thumbnail. You only do that when you're stressed or upset. Is it Annabeth? Did you two have a fight?"
Percy froze. He stopped picking his nail immediately.
"Oh! No, no," he rushed to say, shaking his head. "Annabeth is fine. We're good. It's not her."
Sally tilted her head, curiosity replacing her initial worry, her eyes never leaving his face. "Oh? Then who is it?"
"It's... it's a new camper," Percy muttered, looking down at his feet, choosing to keep Theo to himself for now. "He just arrived a while back."
Percy's smile faltered. Just for a second, but it was enough.
"I'm good," he mumbled. "Everything's fine. I'm just... trying to give him some space. It's complicated."
Sally's expression softened into deep empathy. She didn't know who this boy was, but she could see the pain clear as day.
She could see it clearly, the hurt in his eyes, the tightness around his mouth. He was trying so hard to be strong, trying to pretend he wasn't heartbroken, trying not to worry her.
It broke her heart just to look at him.
"Oh, Percy," she sighed, her voice warm and loving, heavy with affection. "You don't have to pretend with me, honey. I know you. When it hurts, it hurts. You don't always have to be the hero."
Percy looked away, swallowing hard against the lump in his throat. "I just don't understand," he whispered. "I tried, Mom. I really tried to be a good friend. I thought... I thought we were getting somewhere. But now it feels like... like I did something wrong."
"You didn't do anything wrong," Sally said firmly, her tone steady and reassuring, like the ground beneath his feet. "Sometimes people build walls not because they want to keep you out, but because they are trying to protect themselves."
She smiled sadly, her eyes shining with unconditional love. "I don't know what's going on between you two, but he might be scared, Percy. Scared of getting too close, scared of messing things up. He's pushing you away because he thinks it's the right thing to do."
"So what do I do?" Percy asked, sounding younger than he had in years, vulnerable and open just for her.
"You wait," she said gently. "And you stay. You show him that you aren't going anywhere, be what you are. Be the calm water, Percy. Not the wave that crashes against the wall."
Percy nodded slowly, taking a deep breath as her words settled over him, soothing the ragged edges of his worry. "Okay. Yeah. I can do that."
"Good," Sally smiled, reaching out her hand. Even though she was just an image in the water, she wiped a stray droplet from his cheek as if wiping away a tear, her touch light and tender. "Now, eat something sweet today, alright? And tell me when you come home for the weekend. I'll make your favorite."
"I will. Love you, Mom."
"Love you too, honey. More than anything."
The image faded, leaving Percy alone with the water again. He felt a little lighter, her warmth lingering in his chest, though the ache was still there.
Late Night at Hermes Cabin.
Sleep didn't come easily to Theo that night. Even in the darkness of the cabin, his mind refused to settle, buzzing with the day's events, the weight of Percy's intensity, and the tangled mess of his own feelings.
He tossed and turned, feeling restless and on edge, until exhaustion finally pulled him under.
As he drifted off, the familiar wooden walls dissolved into a soft, endless white mist. The world around him faded away until there was nothing but silence and light.
He stood alone in the void.
But he was not truly alone.
A woman's voice spoke. It didn't come from one direction; it surrounded him, soft yet powerful, echoing inside his mind like the chime of crystal bells.
"You have grown quite restless, my child," the voice said, gentle but undeniable. "Your mind is chaotic, and you feel lost."
Theo didn't flinch. He just crossed his arms, looking into the white emptiness.
"Yeah, well, life is complicated," Theo muttered, his tone casual but not rude. "Who are you, anyway?"
"You know exactly who I am. You simply refuse to accept it," the voice replied calmly.
Theo blinked, his posture stiffening slightly. A sudden realization hit him, sharp and clear.
Before him, the mist swirled and shaped itself into an image: a serene temple standing alone on a distant mountain peak, bathed in gentle, golden light, looking peaceful and untouched by time.
"Go here, where you may rest," the voice continued, "And I have a gift that awaits you there."
"A gift?" Theo perked up at the word. His curiosity instantly piqued, replacing his earlier annoyance.
"A gift that I'm sure you'll like," the voice whispered. "And this place, though it may be forgotten, it is a place of sanctuary for those who seek silence."
The image sharpened, showing the grand doors of the temple standing open.
"Ride the Pegasus, my child, for I shall lead it," the voice soothed, warm yet resolute like sunlight breaking through clouds. "You shall remain safe and peaceful, so long as I stand before you."
Maybe because it's a dream, his shoulders visibly relaxing as the gentle cadence wrapped around him like a familiar embrace. A soft, grateful smile touched his lips, and he let out a quiet breath.
Theo nodded slowly. Not knowing what to say.
"You shall remain there for seven days and seven nights," the voice added. "And you must go alone."
Theo blinked.
A week. Alone.
Suddenly, a small smile actually tugged at the corner of his mouth.
'Wait... alone?' his mind raced, a spark of genuine anticipation igniting. 'No Percy Jackson popping out of nowhere. No arguments. No drama. Just... me, myself, and I?'
He looked at the image of the quiet temple again.
'Actually... this isn't looking too bad,' he reasoned internally. 'A whole week without distractions? Away from trouble? Away from everything? That sounds like heaven!'
He realized with a jolt just how tight his chest had felt, unable to pinpoint exactly when the world had become so heavy and stifling, pressing down on him until he could barely draw a full breath.
Now, the prospect of freedom made his heart race with pure, unadulterated joy.
"Why send me there?" he asked, though he was already sold on the idea.
"Peace will not forsake you," the voice explained softly.
"Yeah, yeah, got it," Theo nodded eagerly. "Seven days. Temple. Alone. Got it. I'll go."
He stood straighter, feeling a weight lift off his chest. For the first time in weeks, he felt a genuine sense of calm.
Suddenly, the mist shifted again, and for a fleeting moment, the temple faded away. He felt a warm, invisible presence draw near, as if soft hands were gently cupping his face, wiping away the invisible stress and worry.
"Go now, my beloved son..." the voice resonated one last time, deep and meaningful, filled with infinite tenderness and protection. "Rest well, and know that I am always with you."
The words hung in the air like stars, then slowly faded.
The light vanished.
Theo jolted awake violently, gasping for air as if he had been holding his breath underwater.
He sat up straight in his bunk, his heart hammering against his ribs, his eyes wide as they adjusted to the darkness of the Hermes cabin.
Everything was normal. The snores of his cabinmates filled the air. The wooden walls were solid and real.
But instead of groaning or feeling confused, Theo exhaled a long, shaky breath of relief.
"A week alone," he whispered to himself, a genuine, brilliant smile spreading across his face. "No tension. No running. Just peace... and a gift."
"Best news I've heard all month," he muttered, his eyes gleaming with determination and excitement. "Let's go."
Breakfast the next morning was usually a noisy affair, but today, Theo was practically vibrating in his seat.
He sat at the far end of the Hermes table, shoveling food with a newfound enthusiasm. He wasn't looking over his shoulder. He wasn't planning escape routes. He was just... happy.
'Yes!' his mind sang, practically bouncing in his skull. 'Seven days. Seven glorious days of silence. Just me, and whatever awesome gift is waiting for me.'
He took a bite of toast, chewing thoughtfully.
'I wonder what the gift is? A magic item? Or maybe just unlimited snacks? Either way, sign me up. Anything is better than nothing.'
Across the pavilion, Percy Jackson was watching him.
He had barely touched his food. He was staring at Theo with a mixture of confusion and concern.
For weeks, Theo had looked like a trapped animal, tense, jumpy, and miserable.
Now? He looked like he'd just won the lottery. He was smiling. Actually smiling. To himself.
Percy frowned, narrowing his eyes.
'What is going on with him?' Percy wondered, reaching out with that strange connection. 'Why is he so happy? Did someone give him cookies? Is he plotting something?'
Theo stood up abruptly, grabbing his plate. He had a mission.
"Chiron! Mr. D!" Theo called out, striding confidently towards the head table. He didn't even glance in Percy's direction. "I need to speak with you both. Important divine business."
Percy's ears perked up. Divine business?
He watched as Theo stood before the activities director and the centaur.
He couldn't hear the words, but he could hear Theo's thoughts loud and clear, buzzing with excitement.
'Tell them about the dream. Tell them I have to go on a quest. Seven days alone. Yes, this is happening. I am free!'
Percy's heart dropped into his stomach.
Quest?
Alone?
For a week?
Percy stood up so fast his chair scraped loudly against the stone floor, earning him several glances. A cold wave of worry washed over him.
Theo felt pretty good as he walked out of the Big House.
Chiron had nodded solemnly, understanding the vision immediately.
Mr. D had just grunted and told him not to die or cause trouble, which was basically his version of a blessing.
Everything was set. He would leave after lunch.
"Perfect," Theo muttered to himself, stepping out into the sunlight.
But as soon as he stepped outside, he was met by Percy Jackson, who was standing there blocking the path.
He looked like he had run there at top speed. His eyes were wide, his breathing heavy, and his expression was full of worry.
Theo turned slowly.
Theo took an involuntary step back. "Percy? What... What is wrong with you?"
'Oh gods. Why does he look so worn out?! Is he sick?!'
"I heard," Percy stated, his voice rough. He took a step forward, closing the distance. His hands were clenched at his sides. "You're leaving? On a mission? Alone?"
Theo blinked, his defensive walls shooting up instantly. "So what if I am? It's a quest, I think? Chiron approved. It's none of your business."
"It is my business!" Percy said, his voice rising slightly, though he kept it controlled. "What if something happens out there? Is it far? Are there monsters on the way?"
"I'm not walking off to get killed!" Theo snapped, crossing his arms defensively, his heart starting to race. "It's a holy place, Percy. It's safe."
"Safe?" Percy scoffed, though his voice was shaking slightly. "Theo, look at yourself! You can't even fight! You trip over your own feet just walking! What if you get hurt? Who is going to protect you?!"
He grabbed Theo's arm gently but firmly, his eyes pleading.
"Don't do this. Let me come with you. Just as backup. I won't disturb you, I promise! I'll just... I'll stand guard outside or something! I just need to know you're okay!"
Percy wasn't trying to be controlling. He was just terrified.
He knew Theo's strengths were in calming things down, not fighting things off.
The thought of him out there alone, defenseless, made his stomach twist.
But Theo just pulled his arm away gently, but firmly.
He looked up at Percy, his face set in stone.
"No, Percy."
"Why not?!" Percy burst out, sounding desperate and hurt. "I'm strong! I can keep you safe! Why do you have to be so stubborn?!"
Theo took a deep breath. He looked Percy right in the eye and said the words clearly, but not harshly.
"Because I need to do this alone, Percy."
Theo held his gaze, his voice steady, refusing to look away even though he could see the panic rising in Percy's eyes.
"She told me to go alone. Seven days. Just me."
He took a small step back, creating the space he so desperately craved, even though it hurt to see Percy look so crushed.
Percy ran a hand through his hair, looking absolutely wrecked. His chest was heaving, and his eyes were shiny with unshed worry.
"Fine," he choked out.
"Nothing is going to happen," Theo said, softening his tone just a fraction. He wanted to reach out, to touch his arm, to reassure him, but he knew if he did, he might break. "It's a temple, Percy. I have my mother's blessing, so don't worry."
Percy stood there, breathing hard, the war raging visibly behind his eyes, the hero instinct screaming at him to go, to protect, to never let go, fighting against the knowledge that he had to respect this.
"I promised not to bother you," Percy whispered, his voice breaking, sounding so small and hurt. "I didn't promise to be okay with you disappearing, but you already decided you're going, right?"
"I'm really going," Theo nodded firmly.
For a long moment, Percy just stared at him, looking like he wanted to argue more, to beg, to drag him back to the cabin and lock the door just to keep him safe.
But slowly, the tension drained out of his shoulders, leaving him looking exhausted and defeated.
"Seven days," Percy said, the words tasting like ash in his mouth. "Promise me that you'll get to the Temple safely."
"I promise," Theo said.
Percy looked at him one last time, his expression raw and vulnerable. Then, he did something unexpected. He stepped forward and pulled Theo into a tight, crushing hug.
He buried his face in Theo's shoulder, holding on like it was the last thing he had.
"Be careful," Percy mumbled against his neck, his voice thick. "Please. Just... be careful."
Theo stiffened for a second, surprised by the contact, but then he let himself melt into it just for a second, absorbing the warmth and the worry.
He patted Percy's back awkwardly, his heart twisting painfully.
"I will," he whispered.
Slowly, reluctantly, Percy let go. He took a step back, shoving his hands into his pockets to keep himself from reaching out again. He wouldn't meet Theo's eyes anymore, staring at the ground instead.
"Go on then," Percy said hoarsely. "Before I change my mind and carry you back to Cabin 11 myself."
Theo let out a breath he didn't know he was holding. He turned away, walking toward the cabin, his boots crunching on the grass.
He didn't look back. He wouldn't.
Percy stood there alone, watching the retreating figure.
He watched the boy he had barely known just a month ago, yet somehow, the kid had become one of the most important people in his world.
His jaw tightened, the worry in his eyes hardening into something else, something determined.
He respected Theo's wish. He would let him go alone.
But that didn't mean he was just going to stand here and do nothing.
He would do it, in his own way.