We'll Make It Work. Promise

Once Upon a Time

The midnight black stallion galloped through the woods that surrounded the cliff overlooking Palace City. Percy leaned over as much as possible, mentally willing the horse to go faster.

Faster.

Faster.

Faster.

Soon they arrived at a tiny seaside village. He fondly petted his steed as they reached a large house with two barns behind it.

"There, Blackjack. Rest as you will. I'll be back soon." Percy grabbed his pen and looked at it for a moment.
It was actually a sword with a three-foot bronze blade, but it was excellent to hide. He threw his cloak closer to his body before going to the door. He gave four short raps on the thick wooden door and waited. Soon his old trainer answered.

"Percy, me lad!" The man exclaimed and ushered him in "Good to see you again."

"Chiron." Percy smiled and took off his disguise leaving only his training clothes. As he changed, three knocks could be heard and Chiron went to answer it.
Percy could only make out "careful" and "almost got lost", but the rest were only muffled voices. He entered the large underground arena to behold his teacher with a young lady in front of him. A very beautiful young lady. And of high rank, by the way she held herself.
"Percy, this is Annabeth , another of my pupils. Tonight you two will be dueling." Chiron looked sternly at the prince." I expect you two to do your best, but please refrain from killing each other."
Percy and Annabeth nodded silently, discreetly studying the other. They took out their weapons and faced each other.
Percy's sea bluish green eyes met intensely grey ones.
He blinked twice before holding her gaze again. She seemed impressed that he continued their stare, but any acceptance was replaced by concentration in a matter of seconds.
Percy breathed.
This was going to be a long night.

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

"Goodnight, Chiron." The two young people said as they left the Big House, as it was fondly known.
Percy and Annabeth saddled their horses. Hers was a grey, dappled mare with a black mane and tail. She had one white sock.

A beautiful mare for a beautiful lady.

"I'll see you again?" Percy asked hopefully. He saw a faint smile grace her lips, visible even in the dim light.

"Sooner than you expect, Prince Percy."

"It's just Percy." He replied. She paused and turned slightly in his direction. Her hand rose and swiped down, a farewell known to be used by the Athenian people. The next second, she was gone.

Percy watched in the direction for which she had left. He sat there until, his body began to shiver.

But the ride home was filled with the images of a blond beauty.