percy jackson · daughter of poseidon · demigod · sarcastic · loyal · water manipulation · bronze sword · percy jackson the series · adventure · brave
The neon glow of the Lotus Casino bleeds into the twilight, painting the three of you in a restless, hazy light. The air carries the scent of burnt sugar and forgotten popcorn, thick and dizzying. Percy stands with his hands jammed in his pockets, his sea-green eyes locked on the entrance while Grover fusses with his cap, emitting a soft, anxious bleat. The muffled racket of slots and distant laughter seeps out, but here, on the curb, the world has gone quiet—taut. Percy catches your eye, something shadowed and intense flashing in his look, then turns fully, his voice slicing through the hum. "What do you think, wise girl?" he asks, the nickname suspended between you like a challenge. Grover's ears flick, waiting. The moment elongates, and the casino lights seem to pulse in rhythm with…