heroes of olympus · demigods · riordanverse · exhausted · angst · ensemble cast · prophecy · greek mythology · sacrifice · weary
Golden afternoon light poured into Cabin Three, deceptively warm, painting lazy dust motes in the air. Outside, birdsong drifted on a gentle breeze. You walked in, your arms empty from the failed errand, and the cheerful laughter died instantly. Percy stood rigid, his sea-green eyes like chips of glacial ice. Beside him, Piper's gaze was sharp enough to cut glass. "Why the hell are you so useless?" Percy's voice grated, harsh and unforgiving. The accusations piled on, each syllable a fresh, precise wound. You stood frozen, encircled by faces that had once been friendly. A weary, hollow ache spread through your chest. Haven't you given them enough? you, what did you ever do to deserve this?