Queen Wise Girl [PJO SELECTION AU]

Chapter Six: In Black and White

We almost kissed.

My heart feels like it's beating out of my chest. Of course, we'd kissed before, but this was the Selection, not camp. I take a deep breath, but halfway through my inhale, I realize something.

Thalia is coming today.

I choke on air. I jump out of bed, surprised to see my maids already drawing me a lemon bath. Once I had gotten dressed in a silk robe, I wait as they pull a petite black and white dress from my closet. The dress is a black long sleeve until the waist, where it becomes a white skirt-length body with black lace lining the bottom. It is simple and traditional.

I smile. They are so talented and I barely recognize it. "Oh, my Greece! It is gorgeous. You guys are incredible!" I compliment, running my fingers along the black lace.

They squeal, "Wait till you see the dress for the ball tonight!" The chuckle, exchanging glances. Before I can ask questions, they dress me, pull my hair into an up-do and shove me out the door. I look over at Percy's door. He's probably in the study, preparing for the guests. I take a deep breath and make my way to the Women's room. I fling the doors open to absolute chaos, all-girls dressed in shades of black and white.

Alyssa calls us all to attention, "As you all know, the French royal family are arriving this morning..." she booms, her voice filling the room easily. A few girls exchange excited mummers which immediately start to fill the room. Alyssa silences them immediately, "Ladies, please. When they arrive you must act like a lady, stand up straight and smile. The cameras will be watching." I take a deep breath. Thalia and Jason, I was too excited. I bet Percy is counting the seconds.

Breakfast passes in a hurried rush of excitement. None of the royals is present, likely preparing for the people soon to be in the castle. After what feels like agonizing hours, the last plate is cleared.

The selected trip over themselves, eager to meet the Prince and Princess. I look around the table. There are 29 girls left, meaning only 6 have gone home. At this rate, the selection could take years. Finally, the royal family stands to leave. As proper, we stand as they walk out.

Alyssa coughs, alerting us to her presence. " The prince and princess are set to arrive anytime now." She leads us out, lining us on both sides of the palace doors. Even in spring, I can feel the bitter bite of the wind.

Sally and Paul walk out first, both dressed in basic black attire, Tyson and Liz following behind. Tyson in a black tuxedo and Liz in a sea-green gown and finally Percy. He, like his father and brother, is dressed in black formal wear with a sea green visible undershirt. He shoots a smile in my direction, letting me see the sparkle in his eyes, he is excited.

Finally, a long black limo pulls up to the palace, the French royal crest engraved on the side. My heart pounds against my ribcage, the anticipation building up by the second. Percy steps forward in front of his parents, as the heir, he shall welcome them first. The driver steps out of the car and opens the door.

Out steps Thalia.

The selected withhold gasps and I can no longer contain my growing smile.

"Thalia!"

I break our lines, running to consume Thalia in an embrace. I can almost feel Alyssa's scowl.

"Annabeth!"

Thalia replies, squeezing me tighter. I can hear the formal reunion between Jason and Percy. I smile, finally some more company than stuck up girls. Thalia breaks the hug, laughing at me. I catch Alyssa's gaze and chuckle.

"Princess Pinecone Face,"

I say dramatically to Thalia, bowing to stifle my giggles. She giggles, playing my game.