Louisa looked up, feeling better rested than she had done for a long time.

Then the shark swam lazily over her.

"Oh mother of crap!" The shark's body jerked and it swam off as fast as it could.

"Of all the things to startle you, it had to be a stray shark." Louisa looked round, locking eyes with her father. He stood tall, proud and powerful. His tanned face was kind and sympathetic, sea green eyes warm and understanding. "And I don't think there is a 'mother of crap'." Louisa blinked at him. "Yes, gods are allowed to swear."

"Why-?"

"We couldn't find you. I heard your prayers and I did respond, but I knew you couldn't hear me. I did everything in my power to help you, but Father's power was too strong around you. I also tried sinking the Princess Andromeda, but Oceanus prevented me. We all tried, Louisa, even Hades."

"He did?" Poseidon nodded. "Wow." Louisa wandered what she had done for the Lord of the Dead to try and help find her. "Hey, how're the others?"

"I've told Percy you'll be home soon. I believe he and Sally are planning something."

"Oh joy." Poseidon chuckled.

"My lord." Poseidon turned. Amphitrite swam through the arched doorway. Her eyes fell on Louisa. "Hello child." Louisa could never decide if her father's immortal wife liked or could tolerate her and her brother.

"Hi." Amphitrite nodded before looking back at the sea god.

"Oceanus has sent attack on the southern region. What are your orders?"

"Have Triton lead his men and the Cyclops against them. I will join shortly." Amphitrite bowed and hurried out, the green and blue silk of her Greek chiton billowing in the warm currents.

"Dad, I'll help."

"No, Louisa."

"But-"

"You must return home and recover. As Apollo rightfully said, you are in no shape to fight."

"But Dad, I'm in water. I could help, right?"

"I appreciate your offer, my child. But not today. These latest… incidents have taken their toll on you more than you'll realise at the moment." Louisa sighed, irritated.

"Not even a little fight?" Poseidon smiled at her stubbornness.

"No." Louisa collapsed against the pillows.

"Unfair." She muttered, folding her arms sulkily.

"We nearly lost you once, Louisa. We don't want to take that risk again." Poseidon cocked his head to the side as if he were listening. "I must go. Oceanus's army draws near."

"Be careful, Dad."

"You need not worry about me." Louisa averted her gaze as he revealed his true godly form and flashed away.