Here's why it's so important:
* Symbol of Power: The bolt represents Zeus's immense power as the king of the gods.
* Triggering War: Its theft sparks a war between the gods, putting the world at risk of destruction.
* Percy's Quest: The main character, Percy Jackson, is accused of stealing the bolt and must prove his innocence while also trying to recover it.
The master bolt is a central plot device in *The Lightning Thief* and drives the story forward, forcing Percy to confront his powers and the dangers of the divine world.