[the hope that lights up in his eyes is much, much preferable to the expression he wore when Annabeth was killed. it energizes her, causes her to unconscious square her shoulders and lift her chin in a stance that says we can do this]

[she also lifts a hand to her mouth and laughs]

The Sheriff did just say yesterday that our leader has. . . ah. "Got their knickers in a twist" trying to find us. It's a strange expression, but I think I understand its meaning. [ha] So yes, that sounds exactly right.

[her hand drops to her side as the laughter fades, but the smile remains]

I do know what role our leader is looking for. Unfortunately, I don't know the person who occupies it. But that's why I'd like to meet them.