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We Fight the First Battle of a New War

Theo's POV

Distance was shorter in the Labyrinth. Still, by the time Rachel got us back to Times Square, I felt like we'd pretty much run all the way from New Mexico. We climbed out of the Marriott basement and stood on the sidewalk in the bright summer daylight, squinting at the traffic and crowds.

I couldn't decide which seemed less real—New York or the crystal cave where I'd watched a god die.

I led the way into an alley for some reason. Percy then whistles five times. A minute later...

Rachel: (gasps) They're beautiful.

A flock of Pegasi descended from the sky, swooping between the skyscrapers. Blackjack was in the lead, followed by four of his white friends.

Blackjack neighed as Casablanca trotted up to me before rubbing her head against mine.

Percy: Yeah. I'm lucky that way. Listen, we need a ride to camp quick.

Another one of the white Pegasi groaned. I guess he's not happy about having to carry Tyson.

Everybody started saddling up—except Rachel.

Rachel: Well, I guess this is it.

I sighed. We both knew she couldn't go to camp. I glanced at Annabeth and Zoe, who were both pretending to be very busy with their Pegasi.

Percy: Thanks, Rachel. We couldn't have done it without you.

Rachel: I wouldn't have missed it. I mean, except for almost dying, and Pan...

Her voice faltered.

Percy: He said something about your father. What did he mean?

Rachel twisted the strap on her backpack.

Rachel: My dad...My dad's job. He's kind of a famous businessman.

Percy: You mean...you're rich?

Rachel: Well, yeah.

Theo: That explains the chauffeur. You just said your dad's name and—

Rachel: Yes. Guys...my dad's a land developer. He flies all over the world, looking for tracts of undeveloped land. The wild. He—he buys it up. I hate it, but he plows it down and builds ugly subdivisions and shopping centers. And now that I've seen Pan...Pan's death—

Theo: You can't blame yourself for that.

Rachel: You don't know the worst of it. I—I don't like to talk about my family. I didn't want you to know. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said anything.

Percy: No, it's cool. Look, Rachel, you did awesome. You led us through the maze. You were so brave. That's the only thing I'm going to judge you on. I don't care what your dad does.

Rachel looked at me.

Theo: What he said.

She gave us a grateful look.

Rachel: Well...if you ever feel like hanging out with a mortal again...you could call me or something.

Percy: Uh, yeah. Sure. I mean...I'd like that.

Rachel: My number's not in the book.

Percy: I've got it.

Rachel: Still on your hand? No way?

Percy: No. I kinda...memorized it.

Her smile came back slowly, but a lot happier.

Rachel: See you later, Percy Jackson. Go save the world for me, okay? (turns to Theo) See you 'round, Altair.