My faithful companion, Zoe Nightshade, has passed into the stars. I must have a new lieutenant. And I intend to choose one. But first, Father Zeus, I must speak to you privately."<br /><br />Zeus beckoned Artemis forward. He leaned down and listened as she spoke in his ear.<br /><br />A feeling of panic seized me. "Annabeth," I said under my breath. "Don't."<br /><br />She frowned at me. "What?"<br /><br />Look, I need to tell you something," I continued. The words came stumbling out of me. "I couldn't stand it if… I don't want you to—"<br /><br />Percy?" she said. "You look like you're going to be sick."<br /><br />And that's how I felt. I wanted to say more, but my tongue betrayed me. It wouldn't move because of the fear in my stomach