I’d better get out of here before Ares arrives,” I said…
““I’d better get out of here before Ares arrives,” I said. Clarisse nodded. “He’d probably kill you on sight.” “Congratulations,” I said. “I guess you passed your driving test.” She wrapped the reins around her hand. “About what you saw, Percy. What I was afraid of, I mean—” “I won’t tell anybody.” She looked at me uncomfortably. “Did Phobos scare you?” “Yeah. I saw the camp in flames. I saw my friends all pleading for my help, and I didn’t know what to do. For a second, I couldn’t move. I was paralyzed. I know how you felt.” She lowered her eyes. “I, uh . . . I guess I should say. . .” The words seemed to stick in her throat. I wasn’t sure Clarisse had ever said thank you in her life. “Don’t mention it,” I told her. I started to walk away, but she called out, “Percy?” “Yeah?” “When you, uh, had that vision about your friends . . .” “You were one of them,” I promised. “Just don’t tell anybody, okay? Or I’d have to kill you.” A faint smile flickered across her face. “See you later.” “See you.” I headed off toward the subway. It had been a long day, and I was ready to get home.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A friend offers comfort and secrecy after a traumatic vision, showing trust and the burden of hidden pain.
In simple terms: A friend comforts you and asks you to keep a secret.
Key Takeaway
Offer support without demanding disclosure.
Themes
friendship
trust
trauma
secrecy
heroism
Mood
empathetic
reflective
hopeful
Type
dialogue
character interaction
emotional support
When to use this quote
- after a battle
- during a crisis
- in a support group
- when coping with PTSD
Key Concepts
empathy
psychological safety
conflict resolution
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance protecting a friend with encouraging them to seek help?
- What risks arise from keeping traumatic experiences secret?
A Different Perspective
The promise of silence can strain relationships and hinder healing.