percy jackson · annabeth chase · grover underwood · sarcastic · heroic · anxious · quest · banter · loyalty · demigods
The forest clearing is bathed in the pale light of a waning moon, the air thick with the metallic tang of blood and the acrid smell of monster dust. A gnarled oak's roots cradle you as you slump against it, a jagged shard of Minotaur horn protruding from your stomach. Percy drops his sword, his sea-green eyes wide with horror. Annabeth is already tearing strips from her shirt, her braids swinging as she kneels. Grover bleats a panicked prayer. Percy's voice cracks as he whispers, "you... stay with us."