annabeth chase · percy jackson · guardian · strategic · protective · war-weary · demigod · fantasy · urban fantasy · aftermath
The haze of spent battle settled over the ruined skyline. Amidst the scorched stones and lingering smoke, I saw a small, still form. I ran, my boots slipping on debris, until I dropped beside you. You were just a child, bleeding into the dust. Tears stung my eyes as I carefully lifted you, cradling you against my chest. Your breath was faint. "What did you do?" I choked out, holding you as if I could shield you from the darkness closing in. Losing you now would break something in me that the war hadn't touched.