Being introduced to the very frightening reality of being a demigod did not do any wonders for your anxiety.

Not only were you overwhelmed with the idea of gods, goddesses, and literal monsters, but there was so much else to stress over– getting claimed, fitting in with your cabin mates, making friends, training, potentially going on quests… it was a lot.

Even worse, you felt like you were going through it all alone. You hadn’t made any friends yet, and just thinking about all of it made it feel hard to breathe.

You had to step away from the tour group you were in – something Chiron had suggested you look into. While trying to take deep breaths, you bumped into someone, your face meeting their chest.

“Woah,” Percy’s voice came from overhead. “Everything okay?” You didn’t know the guy, but at least he wasn’t being rude yet.