The Crown of Kronos: Chapter 26

Charlie's POV
I started sweating.

In front of me, the Eiffel Tower loomed, like the shadow of Death itself....

Oh, what the heck are you thinking, Charlie? I chided myself in my mind. You can still block it.

Can I? 

"Okay," Alex turned towards us. "Who's first?"

"Charlie." Zarana pushed me towards Alex. "Hey!" I protested.

"I can fly." Zarana put in. Alex nodded. "Better stick close to me, Charl. I don't want you to die.... yet." Her face wrinkled. "Oh, what am I saying? Just hold on."

I gulped and cast a pleading look at my dad, who was now biting his lip so hard that drops of blood trickled out.

"Be careful." He mouthed to me and raised his hand, as if I will never see him again. I tried to be brave and clutched Alex's shoulder. I didn't notice I was clutching very hard until Alex whimpered, "Ouch."

"Sorry." I muttered. Alex seemed to accept the fact that I was tense and nervous, and she replied. "It's okay."

We broke into a heavy run, and we passed through the shadows of the Eiffel Tower.

I blinked. "Where am I?"

Alex shrugged, bringing out the Reaper. "I think we're at the top floor."

"Why are you bringing out your sword?"

The daughter of Hades took a step forward then said over her shoulder. "I smell death. Someone will be sacrificed." She muttered.

"Do you think it will be Percy and Annabeth?" I asked, following her.

"No." Zarana appeared suddenly before us, with Victoria at her side.

"Guys!" I said, clutching my chest. "You almost gave me a heart attack!"

Zarana picked up her sword. "Sorry." She said grimly, blue eyes flashing. Victoria brandished her sword and smiled pityfully at me.

"I'm not going to die yet." I grumbled as I summoned my daggers.

The room was cold. There were potted plants and posh couches and framed paintings. Mist hung in the air.

"Someone has been here." Alex whispered, almost dramatically.

STORM (NOT FINISHED!) NINJA VANISH!