After a quiet weekend, Percy wakes before dawn on Monday from a nightmare in which the Olympian gods announce pregnancies and Zeus repeatedly demands toasts. Annabeth breaks into Percy’s bedroom through the window, already dressed for action and carrying the vial of concentrated nectar from Iris.

Annabeth explains that she contacted Juniper by Iris-message to learn more about concentrated nectar. Juniper told Annabeth that dryads keep it for dire emergencies, that it can heal nature spirits in risky ways, and that its fragrance is powerful enough to put a demigod into a coma. Because of that danger, Annabeth has brought tissues and menthol rub so she and Percy can plug their noses before uncorking it.

The conversation briefly shifts to Grover and Juniper. Annabeth says Percy’s advice must have helped, because Grover apologized, spent time planting seedlings with Juniper, and repaired their relationship.

Percy reflects on living at home with Sally and Paul, feeling supported and trusted, especially now that Sally is pregnant. Annabeth asks whether Percy has second thoughts about leaving New York for New Rome University, but Percy insists he has no conflict about going with Annabeth, even though he wonders what life will be like for his mother’s new child.

Annabeth reminds Percy that they need an early start if they want to reach Washington Square Park, investigate the lead about Gary, and still get Percy back in time for school. Percy gets ready only slightly slower than Annabeth’s schedule predicts, and at 5:15 A.M. they leave the apartment, heading toward what may be their last chance to find Ganymede’s stolen chalice.