In "The Sea of Monsters" by Rick Riordan, there is a sense of playful danger as characters prepare for a challenging competition. The atmosphere is both lighthearted and alarming, as they are encouraged to be cunning and use whatever means necessary, while also being warned against actual violence. The humorous consequences of punishment add an amusing twist to the seriousness of the situation.
Tantalus, the character delivering this message, speaks to...