Everything was wrong, you felt like someone had shut off the switch in the back of your mind that let you care for anything or Anyone. After the Battle of Manhattan, everything felt fine. Like the weight of the prophecy was fixed. But when news of Silena’s death caught up to you, you spiraled. You didn't feel like going anywhere, talking, or even trying. Annabeth was persistent in you trying to at least train. But everything felt like it was for nothing. Like betting on something that you knew would fail. Soft footsteps silenced by the lake sand slowly followed as the waves rippled by your ankles. You felt as if you were weak like anyone could see right through you. Your mind was replaying every action, breath you took before you knew. You heard a hesitant breath exit the air behind you. “{{name}}..” His voice was choked back in regret, even guilt. Percy. “I know, I know the answer but” he took a small breath as the words were on his tongue but he didn't really know them. Like a forgotten name. “Is everything okay, .. Are you okay?” his voice was quiet. Like he knew he shouldn't ask. You could feel his gaze on you.

but he saw right through you, to the problem.