"Percy, don't," Chiron warned. He winced as he tried to move. His left arm was

in a sling, his two back legs were in splints, and his head was wrapped in

bandages. "You can't interrupt."

 

"I thought you explained things to her!"

 

"I did. And I invited her here." 1 stared at him in disbelief. "You said you'd

never let anyone try again! You said — "

 

"I know what 1 said, Percy. But I was wrong. Rachel had a vision about the curse

of Hades. She believes it may be lifted now. She convinced me she deserves a

chance."

 

"And if the curse isn't lifted? If Hades hasn't gotten to that yet, she'll go

crazy!"

 

The Mist swirled around Rachel. She shivered like she was going into shock.

 

"Hey!" I shouted. "Stop!"

 

I ran toward her, ignoring the satyrs. I got within ten feet and hit something

like an invisible beach ball. 1 bounced back and landed in the grass.

 

Rachel opened her eyes and turned. She looked like she was sleepwalking — like