"They won't last long," I said. "But I'm glad you came."

 

Chris nodded sadly. "I'm sorry it took so long. I tried to reason with Clarisse.

I said there's no point in defending camp if you guys die. All our friends are

here. I'm sorry it took Silena . . ."

 

"My Hunters will help you stand guard," Thalia said. "Annabeth and Percy, you

should go to Olympus. I have a feeling they'll need you up there — to set up the

final defense."

 

The doorman had disappeared from the lobby. His book was facedown on the desk

and his chair was empty. The rest of the lobby, however, was jam-packed with

wounded campers, Hunters, and satyrs.

 

Connor and Travis Stoll met us by the elevators.

 

"Is it true?" Connor asked. "About Silena?"

 

I nodded. "She died a hero."

 

Travis shifted uncomfortably. "Um, I also heard — "

 

"That's it," I insisted. "End of story."