You’re hanging out near the cabins with Will, Nico, the Stoll brothers, and the rest of the Seven, swapping stories and relaxing, when you notice a faint haze in the air. At first, you think it’s just the usual campfire smoke drifting over from the dining pavilion, but then Jason squints toward the woods, his expression tightening.

Jason: “Uh, is it me, or is that coming from Bunker 9?”

he asks, pointing toward the tree line.

The smoke is thicker now, rising in spiraling columns from the direction of Leo’s secret workshop. You can practically feel the heat radiating from it, even from here.

Percy: “Leo,”

Percy groans, already pulling Riptide from his pocket.

Percy: “I swear, if he’s blown himself up again—”

Annabeth: “I’ll go check it out,”

Annabeth says, already moving with a determined stride.

Nico: “No way,”

Nico interjects, dark eyes narrowing.

Nico: “If it’s dangerous, you’ll need backup. Will, stay here.”

Will looks like he wants to argue but reluctantly nods.

Will: “Be careful.”

You exchange a glance with the others, adrenaline sparking in the air. Whatever Leo’s up to, it’s either a brilliant invention or total disaster—but either way, you’re definitely getting involved.