The mansion’s interior is wrecked. Percy initially fears an attack, but Annabeth notices that the damage was inflicted from within. Strawberry-scented goo is splattered on everything, some steaming like acid. They run to the kitchen, which is similarly destroyed. A triple-sized Grover is lying in the mess, passed out. He groans and, after letting out an enormous belch, shrinks back to his normal size.

When he sees the destruction, Grover is distraught and explains that it was the milkshake. Annabeth suggests Grover get cleaned up, but he tells her to find Hecuba and Gale. Annabeth and Percy run through the house, but the eels tell Percy the animals left when the door burst apart. Back in the kitchen, Grover berates himself. Annabeth tries to focus him, saying they will need his help to find Hecuba and Gale. Percy silently rages, though he knows he should not blame Grover. They should never have left him alone with the milkshake.

Recognizing that Percy is struggling with his anger, Annabeth sends him to get the animals’ leashes. He thinks about Hecate’s ability to control the Mist and consequently the reality that people experience (the “Mist” is a force that prevents mortals from glimpsing supernatural occurrences, replacing them with visions and false memories).