Percy Jackson is flushed from his school through Poseidon’s underwater plumbing system and emerges in the Atlantic Ocean near Poseidon’s summer villa. The palace is under renovation, with whales, sharks, merfolk, and other sea creatures working around the site.

Percy finds Poseidon beside an underwater infinity pool. Poseidon asks about Percy’s new school and admits that Eudora may have told Percy about the college recommendation letters too abruptly. Percy asks whether Poseidon can simply solve the New Rome University problem with divine power.

Poseidon explains that the three letters are the only way the Olympian Council will let Percy work off the debt of existing as a child of one of the Big Three. Because Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades once made a pact not to have demigod children, Percy is technically ineligible for New Rome University unless he completes this requirement.

Percy argues that his past service in wars against the Titans, Gaea, and the giants should count for something, but Poseidon says Zeus insists on rules. Poseidon adds that Zeus originally wanted Percy to obtain twenty-five letters, and Poseidon negotiated the number down to three. Poseidon cannot write one himself because he is Percy’s father.

Poseidon explains that Percy must earn each recommendation by completing a quest for a god before the winter solstice application deadline. Percy hopes to approach friendly gods, but Poseidon reveals that gods must come to Percy instead. Poseidon has already posted flyers on an Olympian quest board and around Mount Olympus advertising Percy’s services in exchange for recommendation letters.

Percy is dismayed by the embarrassing flyer, which includes his home address and an intrusive bathroom-mirror photo. Poseidon insists he has helped, reassures Percy that college will lead to an easier life with Annabeth, then leaves to discuss decorating choices. Poseidon sends Percy back through the ocean floor, ending the meeting without giving Percy any real help.