The next morning, the first light of dawn crept into the cabins of Camp Half-Blood, heralding a new day. The air was filled with a buzz of excitement, whispers, and rumors flying around the camp like wildfire. Percy Jackson, the legendary demigod who had saved Olympus and Camp Half-Blood on multiple occasions, was rumored to be arriving today.
Katie was the first to wake, her heart already pounding with excitement. She quickly dressed and made her way to the dining pavilion, eager to meet Travis and discuss their strategy for the game. As she approached, she spotted him, his eyes bright with anticipation, already seated with a plate of breakfast in front of him.
"Can you believe it?" Katie said, her eyes wide with excitement. "Percy Jackson, here at camp again. I wonder what brings him back this time."
Travis grinned his own excitement barely contained. "Whatever it is, it must be important. Percy doesn't just show up for no reason. But it's going to be great to see him again."
As they reached the dining pavilion, the atmosphere was electric. Campers of all ages were gathered, their faces alight with anticipation. Katie and Travis found a spot at their usual table, joining their friends and eagerly scanning the crowd for any sign of the famous demigod.
Moments later, a collective gasp went up from the campers as a figure emerged from the path leading to the Big House. Percy Jackson, with his signature black hair and sea-green eyes, strode into the pavilion, his presence commanding and reassuring. Beside him was Annabeth Chase, her blonde hair shining in the morning sun and a warm smile on her face.
"Percy!" someone shouted, and the pavilion erupted into cheers and applause.
Percy waved, his grin infectious as he approached the central table where Chiron stood waiting. "Hey, everyone," he called out, his voice carrying over the noise. "It's great to be back."
Chiron stepped forward, his eyes twinkling with pride and affection. "Welcome back, Percy. And welcome Annabeth. It's always a pleasure to have you both here."
Annabeth nodded, her gaze sweeping over the crowd. "It's good to see you all again. We have some news to share, but first, let's enjoy breakfast."
As the campers settled down and breakfast was served, Katie and Travis couldn't help but steal glances at Percy and Annabeth. It was clear that something significant was brewing, and the air was thick with anticipation.
After breakfast, Chiron called for a meeting at the amphitheater. The campers gathered quickly, eager to hear what Percy and Annabeth had to say. Katie and Travis found seats near the front, their excitement palpable.
Percy stepped forward, his expression serious but reassuring. "We have some important news. There's been unusual activity reported near the western borders of the camp. Strange creatures and disturbances that we haven't seen before. Annabeth and I are here to help investigate and ensure everyone's safety."
A murmur of concern rippled through the crowd. Katie exchanged a worried glance with Travis. The western borders were known for being treacherous, and any disturbance there was cause for alarm.
Annabeth continued, her voice steady and confident. "We'll need everyone's cooperation and vigilance. This could be nothing, but it could also be something significant. We'll be organizing patrols and setting up a watch schedule. Together, we can handle whatever comes our way."
As the meeting concluded, the campers dispersed to their cabins and duties, the weight of the news settling over them. Katie and Travis lingered, their minds racing with thoughts of what might lie ahead.
"Do you think it could be related to our quest?" Katie asked, her brow furrowed in concern.
Travis shrugged, his expression thoughtful. "It's possible. But whatever it is, we'll face it together. Just like we always do."
Later that day, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, Percy and Annabeth approached Katie and Travis. "Hey, you two," Percy greeted them warmly. "Can we talk for a minute?"
Katie and Travis nodded eagerly, following Percy and Annabeth to a quieter spot near the lake. The water shimmered in the fading light, creating a serene backdrop for their conversation.
"First of all, congratulations on your recent quest," Annabeth said, her eyes shining with pride. "Retrieving the Sword of Athena is no small feat."
Katie felt a flush of pride at Annabeth's words. "Thank you. It was a tough journey, but we had each other."
Percy nodded, his expression serious. "We wanted to ask if you'd be willing to help with the investigation. You have proven yourselves capable, and we could use your skills."
Katie and Travis exchanged a glance, their decision instantaneous and unanimous. "We're in," Travis said firmly.
"Great," Percy said, a hint of relief in his voice. "
We'll start tomorrow. Get some rest tonight—we have a lot of work ahead of us."
As they parted ways, Katie and Travis felt a renewed sense of purpose. The arrival of Percy and Annabeth had brought with it a new challenge, one that they were ready to face head-on.
That night, as they lay in the Hermes cabin, Katie looked over at Travis, her heart full. "No matter what happens, we face it together, right?"
Travis took her hand, his grip reassuring. "Always, Katie. Always."
Katie moved closer, resting her head on Travis's shoulder. "I love you, Travis."
He turned his head slightly, kissing her forehead gently. "I love you too, Katie. More than anything."
Katie sighed contentedly, feeling the warmth of Travis's body next to hers. "We've got this, Travis. Whatever comes our way, we can handle it."
Travis wrapped his arm around her, pulling her closer. "Together, we're unstoppable."
