The ocean shimmered beneath the rising sun as Percy approached Atlantis, his mind still heavy with thoughts of home. The image of Sally’s smile, Paul’s understanding nod, and Estelle’s giggles stayed with him, bittersweet yet grounding. As much as he longed to stay in that quiet, normal world, he knew it was no longer his to claim.

The grand gates of Atlantis parted as Percy swam through, his movements effortless. Beside him, Thalia swam with her usual grace, her silver eyes scanning their surroundings. Jason, Piper, Nico, and Will followed close behind, each of them exuding the quiet power that came with their divine status.

“Do you think they missed us?” Piper asked, a teasing edge to her voice.

“Depends,” Jason said, smirking. “Did you leave any of your charm behind last time?”

Piper rolled her eyes. “Oh, please. They practically begged me to stay.”

Percy chuckled but didn’t contribute to the banter. His thoughts were elsewhere, replaying the scene at his mom’s apartment.

Thalia noticed his quiet mood and nudged him gently. “You okay?”

He glanced at her, offering a faint smile. “Yeah. Just… thinking about home.”

Her expression softened. “You’ll see them again, Percy. You’re not cutting ties, just balancing two worlds.”

“Balancing two worlds,” Percy repeated. “Story of my life.”

As they entered the throne room, the Atlantean court straightened at their arrival. The sight of Percy and Thalia at the head of their group drew whispers, their regal presence commanding attention. Both wore their crowns effortlessly, their attire shimmering with the power of their new roles.

“Your Majesties,” one of the court advisors greeted, bowing deeply.

Percy resisted the urge to wince at the title. He still wasn’t used to it.

“Report,” Thalia said, her voice firm yet approachable.

The advisor stepped forward, holding a scroll. “There have been rumors of disturbances along the borders of the kingdom. Creatures not of this realm have been spotted near the trenches.”

Nico frowned, his dark eyes narrowing. “What kind of creatures?”

“Unclear,” the advisor admitted. “But their presence has unsettled the nearby settlements.”

Percy shared a glance with Thalia, his unease mirrored in her expression.

“Double the patrols,” Thalia ordered. “And send word to the settlements to remain vigilant. We’ll investigate further ourselves if needed.”

The advisor bowed and left to carry out her orders.

As the court began to disperse, Percy slumped slightly in his throne, running a hand through his hair. “It’s always something, isn’t it?”

Thalia leaned toward him, a smirk playing on her lips. “Welcome to ruling, Seaweed Brain.”

He groaned at the nickname but couldn’t help the small smile that followed. Despite the weight of his new role, moments like this made it bearable.

The others approached the thrones, their expressions ranging from curious to concerned.

“You think this is connected to whatever’s happening in the mortal world?” Jason asked.

“Probably,” Percy said. “It always is.”

“We’ll figure it out,” Piper said, her voice steady and confident.

Percy nodded, his gaze sweeping over his friends—his family. He didn’t have to face this alone, and that made all the difference.

For now, Atlantis was safe, but the horizon promised challenges yet to come. And Percy Jackson, the reluctant yet determined Sea God, would be ready to face them, surrounded by those he trusted most.