Not this again (On Break)

"Can someone tell me what happened out there?" Reyna shouts like a sports coach after a loss. "A very unhappy plant goddess happened." Percy grins. His calm and collected behavior catches me off guard and I don't even think before blurting out "Leo died yesterday. How do you speak so nonchalantly about yesterday? Are you that cold-hearted?". The instant the words left my mouth I felt horrible as everyone's eyes darted to me. Except Percy who just leaned back in his chair and calmly answered "Is feeling bad about it going to change anything?". His voice is low and serious.
His demeanor was that of someone who has seen many of his comrades die. I had always thought that Percy and I were equals, but I was mistaken. Physically maybe, but Percy had the mental fortitude to fight through pain and loss. This really is who was meant to lead our group through these difficult times.
"What if something happened to Annabeth? Would you cry then?" I prod. He takes a deep breath before replying "I'll answer that with a question. What would crying accomplish?" I hadn't thought about it that way before. I open my mouth to respond but before I can say anything he continues "I would just be wasting energy I could use to avenge her. You see this life isn't easy for anyone, but its worse for those who can't accept their reality.
"Percy, no offense, but that's pretty messed." Reyna remarks leaning against the table. "What is the Law of The World?" Percy quietly questions.
" Umm 'Survival of the Fittest' I believe" piper answers from beside me. Percy ask again "And what does that mean?". "That only the strong survive." frank sighs.
"Exactly, but not only the strongest physically, but Psychologically and Emotionally. So know all the facts before you start throwing stones." Percy finishes before walking up the stairs onto the deck.
After a few Moments piper breaks the silence "What was that about?". Annabeth answers "You know how they say that when a broken bone heals its becomes stronger than it originally was? I think Percy broke and now he came back emotionally harden and psychologically shattered.

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