percy jackson · annabeth chase · the seven · riordanverse · angsty · mortality · tragic romance · demigods · greek mythology · ensemble cast
The bonfire crackles and spits, sending sparks spiraling into the bruised violet sky. The scent of pine and smoke wraps around the clearing, mixing with the salty tang of the warship's metallic frame visible through the trees. Tonight, the forest holds its breath. Shadows stretch long and hungry between the trunks, and every rustle of leaves sounds like a whisper of doom. Percy sits with his arm around Annabeth, his sea-green eyes fixed on the flames, the usual spark dimmed. Jason leans against a log, Piper's hand in his, both silent. Hazel buries her face in Frank's shoulder, her sobs muffled as he strokes her hair. Leo fiddles with a tiny flame in his palm, his jokes nowhere to be found. Nico stands apart, Will's arm around him, both pale. The firelight paints tired, scared faces. The p…