From Origins
Author: Mary Ting
Date: 2015-03-23 04:00:00+00:00
Keywords: Mythology; Romance; Greek Mythology; Fantasy; Paranormal; Paranormal Romance; Young Adult; Magic
Description: Faced with an impossible choice, Skylar and the other descendants embark on a deadly quest to the underworld to confront Hades, who has been plotting to kill them all. They discover the ancient gods are not dead, as once believed, but are instead held captive in a secret location. In order to save the world from destruction at the hands of Hephaestus, the descendants must rescue their ancestors, the gods of Olympus. Skylar learns more about her bloodline and her powers, but there is a heavy price to pay. The darkest forces known to man are about to return to reclaim their stolen kingdom.

Copyright © Mary Ting 2015

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events, locations, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in articles and reviews.

Formatting by Inkstain Interior Book Designing

Thank you to all my author friends, blogger friends, and everyone who has supported me in any way. To my street team, PA-Julie Bromley, editors-Maxine and Jodi Shaw, PR-Red Coat and team, and to my beta readers -Janie Iturralde, DawnMarie Carpintero, Kara Nichols…you are super stars!!!

Extra special thanks to my amazing author friend Alexandrea Weis. Words cannot describe how much I appreciate your friendship and your wisdom. This book wouldn’t have been perfect without your help.

BOOKS BY M. CLARKE—NEW ADULT

Something Great

Something Wonderful

Something Forever

&

My Clarity (Stand-Alone)

BOOKS BY MARY TING—YOUNG ADULT

CROSSROADS SAGA:

Crossroads

Between

Beyond

Eternity

Halo City

DECADENT PROPHECIES:

From Gods

From Deities

From Origins

Soft melodies rang from the harps and echoed through the garden. Irises, lilies, and various vibrant wild flowers adorned the tables in tall crystal vases, and permeated the air with sweet, divine scents. Red rose petals were scattered on the ground, and above, the flowers from the weeping willow trees added a touch of lilac to the ambiance. It was a late spring afternoon, and the weather was perfect for a wedding.

All the gods and guests waited, patiently mingling and eating finger foods of assorted cheeses, pastries, and fruits. As they strolled in the garden enjoying the view, they held glasses of red wine in their hands.

“It’s a beautiful day, isn’t it, Zeus?” Hera asked, leaning toward her right hip, intentionally exposing her leg through the slit of her long white dress. Loose curls cascaded along the sides of her rosy cheeks, while the rest of her hair was pulled back into a high ponytail. A golden leaf crown adorned her head, matching the bracelet that wrapped around her right forearm.

“Indeed it is,” Zeus replied, gazing at Hera’s leg and arching his brows flirtatiously.

Hera always made sure she looked her best, especially at gatherings; she knew that Zeus’s eyes tended to wander.

Zeus held up his glass. “A toast to the most beautiful woman in the world.”

Hera looked bored. “Oh, Zeus…you are a damn great lover, but an awful husband. Your words are almost as sweet as the wine I’m drinking. Watch thine eyes. Don’t make me jealous.”

Zeus gave a nervous smile. “It’s a beautiful day. Let’s not ruin it.” He winked.

“You’re right, my love. I see Aphrodite and Athena. I must go greet them.” Hera kissed Zeus on the cheek and whispered in his ear in a threatening tone, “I’ll be watching you.” Her hips swayed sensually as she moved away from him, knowing he would be watching her steps.

“Aphrodite…Athena…you both look stunning.” Hera greeted both of them with a kiss on each cheek and trailed her eyes over their beautiful flowing gowns.

“Thank you. So do you,” Athena mumbled, holding a small plate of fruits and nipping on grapes she held from the tips of her fingers.

Aphrodite smiled with a proud gleam. “No compliments needed…I always look stunning,” she giggled playfully. “Now…I see that all the guests have arrived, so where are the bride and the groom?”

As if on cue, the trumpets blasted and the guests scrambled to their seats. The upbeat melody from the harps changed to a softer tune as the guests waited patiently for the couple. A chorus of “ahs and oohs” greeted the bride and groom as they made their entrance.

The groom, King Peleus, wore a white robe and Thetis, the bride, wore a long white A-line dress. The lovely bride’s hair was garlanded with baby’s breath and gold trimmings, giving her a heavenly look. Her train brushed over the red rose petals scattered along the white silk walkway to where Zeus and Hera waited for them on the other end.

Just as they reached midway, the trumpets unexpectedly roared angrily. The guests gasped loudly and turned their heads to the sound of an irate voice.

“How dare you have a party without me?” Eris, the goddess of chaos exclaimed. “Am I not worthy?” Eris was elegantly dressed for the occasion, but her tone was malicious, and her eyes were deadly and cold as the winter’s storm.

Hera stood tall, hands on her hips with annoyance. “Eris, how dare you intrude on this special occasion? You know the rules. If you’re not invited, you are not to show yourself.” She looked at Zeus for support, but he offered none.

Eris swept her disapproving eyes among the crowd and then back to Hera. “You fools! Our world is slowly vanishing, and all you care about is this pathetic wedding? I’ve come to warn you. Hades has cursed you all.”

Loud gasps and commotion filled the air.

“What is the meaning of this?” Zeus laughed out loud in an effort to downplay the serious nature of the news and to bring tranquility back into the gathering. But hearing the name of his brother, whom he so despised, stung his heart deeply. “Impossible. Hades can do no harm. We have nothing to fear.”

“It’s too late. It has been done.” With a sinister grin, she threw a golden apple of discord down the bride and groom’s walkway, distracting them. “This belongs to the fairest.” Then she left with a flash, leaving everyone to bicker, creating chaos.

Fear wrapped around my soul and never let me go. I had conquered fear many times before, yet I couldn’t completely get rid of it. That was the thing with fear. No matter how many times I beat it, it came back. When fear took me, it controlled my heart, my muscles, and my purpose. But I couldn’t let it happen today. Today was the most crucial point in my life. Many lives depended on me.

As I gazed to the peaceful, calm ocean, I felt the contrast that was happening in me as thoughts of ‘why me’ ran through my mind like a mantra. But why not me? Someone had to be the hero…the special one…the one that would save the day. I had learned to accept who I was and what I could do. Mason had a great deal to do with that. If I hadn’t met Mason, who knew where I would be today? Or if I would be alive at all?

Recently, I’d learned that I was not the “keeper of death,” as I was led to believe, but was actually the “keeper of life,” but I still didn’t know what that all meant. Either way, both had positive and negative points. I became whatever my friends wanted me to be. Who was I anyway? I was not from a specific origin like most of my friends were, but rather from all origins. From what I was told by Zara, my bloodline was from all the gods. So far, I had the power of lightning. I could manipulate water, but I hadn’t yet used fire, though Hephaestus told me I could.

Speaking of Hephaestus…he had been my hell since the day I was born. He’d brought misery into my life as if it was some kind of gift. Holding my parents hostage now, he demanded I kill Hades and bring his head and the stone to him; the lodestone, which would heal him and allow him to have the human body he so desired…to look like Steven again, the man my mom was dating. Not to mention, he wanted to be the god of our world. Hell would freeze over before I ever let that happen. I loathed Hephaestus with a passion and I wanted him to burn in hell—a version of hell I wished I could create for him.

“They’re late,” Everett scowled, watching Amada sketch on the sand with her sword.

“They’ll come. They’re just running behind.” Nick sprawled his body, looking up at the fluffy, dreamy clouds. There were so many of them that they covered the sun, making it look gloomy, replicating my mood. His tone was relaxed, as if he was without a care in the world…as he always was. I wished I could be like him. I’d bet he could brush off fear like switching off the light.

“Did you talk to Kayla?” I asked hesitantly, looking down at him. I hadn’t spoken to her in weeks, but I didn’t feel guilty about it. There were times when we didn’t speak for weeks because of our crazy schedule.

Nick squinted his eyes from the sun when he looked up at me. Talk about perfect timing. The sun had seeped through the moving clouds for a split second, only to be covered by an adjacent cloud again.

Changing his position, Nick tucked his arms behind his neck for support and crossed his legs at the same time. “Yup. I told her that I would be on a business trip for at least a week, and because of the time change, it would be difficult for me to call her. I told her that I would text her when I had the chance. She was cool about it. It’s one of the things I like about her.”

A part of me felt guilty. Mason had told me to stay positive, but I couldn’t help it. What if something happened to Nick or any one of us? Ugh! I had to stop thinking those thoughts. I had to remind myself that I couldn’t do this alone. I couldn’t let fear take me over.

Mason must have seen the worried look on my face. As if he could read my thoughts, he placed his arms around me. Immediately his scent spiraled through my body, as I surrendered to his proximity. His body touching mine always made me dizzy that way, taunting me.

I didn’t know if it was better to push Mason away or do what my dirty mind wanted to do. It didn’t matter what I did anyway. Just the sight of him filled my mind with lust. Mason looked debonair in suits, but holy goodness, he looked irresistible when he simply wore jeans and a T-shirt, framing his abs and all the tightness on his body. I closed my eyes and enjoyed his hand caressing my hair and this moment of happiness before I had to snap back into reality.

“You’re not allowed to think negative thoughts, Echo.” His warm breath grazed my skin, sending pleasant shivers through me. “We’re all in this together. Kayla will have Nick back in no time.”

“Okay,” I sighed lightly, trying to give him a smile.

Mason had a way of soothing me, making me believe his words. He made it sound so simple. I wished it were. Though Mason was probably more concerned than I was, he would never show it. He was the kind of person that would never share his troubles so he wouldn’t burden his friends. He had been more expressive with me and with his family lately, which I believed was helping him relate to his family better. But as for us, our relationship had blossomed to a comfortable level. It was as if we had been dating for a long time, but the attraction was still strong and hot.

Sometimes facing tragedy could tear families apart, but in Mason’s case, it didn’t. It brought the Grand family closer together. When Hephaestus captured Everett, they worked as a team and brought him home. Not only did they appreciate the people in their lives, the bond in the Grand’s family got tighter. I was happy for Mason. That was what he needed. After losing his mom and not having any immediate family, I was glad he had found a sense of home, people he could count on.

As for me, we finally got the truth about why my dad had tried to kill me, and the answers made me see the good in my father. I wished we had found out under different circumstances and not by Hephaestus hand. Hephaestus tore my world apart the day I was born, but he did it in such a way that not even my parents knew. How could they? My dad had never known about descendants of gods until Poseidon’s descendants saved him, and I was sure my mom was still shocked as hell right now. I hadn’t had the chance to explain. Hephaestus captured her before we could escape through the portal from Mt. Hem. Now she was in his hands. Who knew what lies he was feeding her?

“What are you doing now?” Everett asked Amanda, standing next to her.

“Creating lightning bolts on the sand. I’m bored.” Her hair was tousled by the sudden wind, causing me to jerk with alert.

I was so jumpy today that any unexpected sound or movement made me uneasy, but the squeeze from Mason’s hand quickly pacified me. The time spent waiting for Zara and the others felt like an eternity, especially when I knew the clock was ticking away. I only had two days to complete my mission. Time was precious. My dad was in an iron cast, and who knew what Hephaestus was doing to my mom.

“Are you sure?” Everett pointed to Amanda’s drawing. “‘Cause that looks like chicken scratch.”

Amanda scowled and looked at him as if he was crazy. “Chicken scratch? I’ll admit I’m no artist, but Everett…really? You can’t see it? Your imagination is screwed up.”

“Why use your imagination? Want to see a real one?” Nick asked in a mischievous tone, moving his feet from side to side like a windshield wiper.

My body twitched when I saw light flash across space. Again, any sudden movement made me freak out.

Everett jumped and turned to Nick, pointing his sword at him. “What the hell? Why did you have to shock me?” Everett narrowed his eyes at him, irate.

Nick stood up, dusting the sand off his pants. “‘Cause I can. ‘Cause I’m bored. ‘Cause it’s fun.” He started chuckling.

“‘Cause I can kick your ass.” Everett jumped on Nick’s back, but Nick started spinning in circles. “Stop...stop...stop.”

Mason released my hand and shot out lights to the both of them. “Calm down. You’re acting like children.”

Nick and Everett fell on the sand near us, causing the sand to swirl. I needed to close my eyes to avoid it, but before I could, Mason embraced me. My face went to his chest, saving me from having a shower of sand on my face.

“You want in, too?” Everett said playfully, his eyes glistening with mischief.

“Do I look like I want in?” Mason’s eyes shimmered in a silvery glow and his fingertips sparkled and sizzled. I couldn’t tell if he was getting ready to join in the fun, or zap the crap out of his brothers from being annoyed. But every time he lit up like that, my insides went crazy; in awe of the way he exuded his power, his strength, and not to mention, the small dose of volts he shot through my body when he was being playful. There were no words to describe the pleasure, and no words to describe how lucky I was to be his.

“Hell, yes!” Nick groaned, running toward Mason, but then halted. With his eyes wide and his body immobile, he looked beyond Mason.

“I think they’re here.” Amanda shifted her view toward the swirling lights that grew bigger with each passing second. The lights intertwined with rainbow colors, hypnotizing us. One by one, my dad’s group appeared, looking refreshed and ready to go. We greeted each other with smiles and nods.

“Hello,” Zara greeted, looking like nothing had happened to her a day ago. Yesterday she’d looked broken and worn out. Even her clothes were torn and burnt. And her eyes, which usually radiated a vibrant hue of violet, were back to normal, and not as pale and dull as yesterday. She looked pristine and refined, with no indication that she had been on Hephaestus’s battleground. “You ready, Skylar?”

“No, not really, but I have no choice,” I huffed.

I didn’t mean to be rude, but what kind of question was that? Hephaestus had my mother, and to make it worse, my dad was engulfed in an iron cast. If my intuition was correct, my dad would soon turn into a statue, like the other gods in Olympus. So to answer her question…I was not ready. I had fear burning through my veins, which was taking every ounce of my will power to control. No matter what I told myself, fear was winning. How the hell was I supposed to kill Hades; the god of the underworld, the god of menace, the god of no mercy?

“Skylar, Hephaestus knew you were the only one that could absorb the powers. It is the reason why he chose you.” Zara explained what I had already knew. She was trying to reason with me, but whatever she said wouldn’t have mattered. I had to accept it and believe that I could do this.

“I’m sorry about your parents,” she continued. “We have all lost loved ones, but what seems impossible can be achieved when you have a purpose. Find your courage and strength for your parents. You are the only one that has a chance of defeating Hades.”

The wind tossed Zara’s beautiful red hair, covering her face. Tara, her sister, looked just like her, except she was blonde. Regardless, they were both beautiful, with the same violet eyes. I didn’t know about anyone else, but to me, they looked like fairies; there was something magical about them. Seeing their skin sparkle against the sunlight reminded me of the way the sun reflected on the ocean, like crystals. Added to the way they were dressed alike, in long blue and purple dresses that danced with the wind, they looked like they could take flight.

“I know,” I sighed, feeling defeated. Having no control over who I was, I tried to put the question behind me. What was the point of asking myself ‘why me’ anyway?

“We will be there with you every step of the way.” Tara tried to give me a reassuring smile, but I took no comfort from it.

“We believe in you,” Noah said, glancing at Tim. Ian, as well as Athena’s descendant, Sarah, Ares’s descendant, Colin, and Apollo’s descendant, Aaron, all smiled and nodded to confirm Noah’s words, adding pressure to what I already felt.

Mason tugged me aside, as if to protect me from something or someone. “What’s Ian doing here?” he asked hastily. I had thought Ian was my friend, only to find he was working undercover for Zara,

“Double traitor,” Nick coughed under his breath. It was so soft that only Everett heard. Everett’s lips twitched, trying to hide a smile.

“Like I’ve said before, Mason, Ian is on our side.” Zara placed her arm around his shoulder. “If it weren’t for him, we might not have known about Hephaestus as quickly as we did.”

“He has my mother,” Ian seethed. Though his tone was a bit hostile, I knew that the anger was toward Hephaestus and not us. “I have every right to come along. Skylar needs all of us, not just a few of you.”

“All right,” Mason agreed, reaching for my hand. “I don’t want anything happening to Sky. She comes first. We’re putting too much pressure on her. If it seems like Hades can’t be defeated, we get out. Is everyone clear?”

“Yes,” I heard from all.

“And so help me,” Mason continued, piercing his eyes to Ian. “If anyone double crosses us when we get there, I won’t hesitate to kill you…any of you.” He glanced to my dad’s group, letting them hear the depth of his words.

“You’ve lost faith in us, but I understand why,” Zara stated.

“I don’t trust anyone, Zara, especially you. Not after that stunt you pulled in Mt. Hem. You could have told us. We do not negotiate with our enemy.”

“I understand your reasons, but you have to understand mine.”

“Yours don’t have justification. It was purely selfish.”

“If that’s how you feel, then I can’t do anything about it. Perhaps you’ll change your mind when this is all over. We can argue this matter all day, but we have someplace to be. Follow me.” With that, Zara led the way.

I was surprised by Mason’s tone toward Zara, but I didn’t blame him. She was someone we respected and admired, someone that was supposed to guide and protect us. But since she betrayed us in Mt. Hem, I would be second-guessing her motives and direction. As for my dad’s group, they were upset about being in the dark, but it seemed as though they trusted her. After all, they had known her longest. Zara was like a mother figure, just as my dad was a father figure to them.

I used to feel a tinge of jealousy that my dad had spent all those years living in New Olympus with my new friends, but I had gotten over that. Now that I knew the reasons why, and after I found out how Hephaestus manipulated our family just so that he could find a way to shape me into what I was today, I could only sympathize and forgive. There were more pressing matters at hand, and dwelling on the past would only hinder me from going forward.

“We can use Ian as bait and let Hades eat him,” Nick snickered to Everett, walking behind Mason and me. “That should kill Hades for sure. I’m sure his body will be oozing with betrayal and poison.”

Nick’s words were only meant for Everett to hear, but since we were surrounded by the god’s descendants, all of whom having super powers, it was impossible to keep things private.

“I heard that,” Ian growled, keeping his distance from us.

As much as I wanted to hate Ian, I couldn’t. I believed him when he told us he was making sure nothing bad would happen to me when he was under the direction of Hephaestus. Though I didn’t know it back then, he was sticking up for me when we had met up with his group of friends during our study lesson. That was the day I found out Ian was special, like us. It was the day I knew I couldn’t trust him anymore. But a part of me felt bad for him too. It couldn’t have been easy, what he had to do. And Hephaestus having his mom…well…I could sympathize with that situation.

The past didn’t matter anymore. We all had to lock up our anger and frustrations. We had a mission to accomplish and it wasn’t going to happen if we couldn’t work together. Whether we wanted to or not, we had to trust each other, especially Zara and Tara.

We didn’t walk far. In fact, I had no idea where we were headed and none of us asked…until we stopped right at the edge of the ocean.

“Why are we here?” Amanda looked confused. I knew she would be the first one to ask.

“This is one place Tara and I can create a portal to the underworld,” Zara answered, looking out into the ocean. “I would not be able to do this myself. It requires much strength and power, along with Skylar’s help.”

Was she serious? Never having created a portal, I had no idea what she meant by that. My friends looked at me in silence, as if they were waiting for me to say or do something.

“What?” I shrugged my shoulders. “I’ve never done that before. I wouldn’t know what to do. All I see is water.”

Zara stood next to me, causing Mason to tense up. I knew his eyes would be on her, and so would mine. Trepidation from her touch had taken me over all of a sudden, and I couldn’t help my thoughts. I imagined her capturing me and forcing us to jump into an already open portal we couldn’t see. I hated that I had this kind of feeling about someone my dad trusted wholeheartedly, but since she had betrayed me, it was hard to forget. Forgiving was one thing; forgetting was a whole different story.

“When Zeus and Poseidon put Hades in the underworld, they made sure that no one got in or out without both of their permission,” Zara explained. “In order to open the portal, the water must be elevated. Then Tara and I will create the portal. At the same time we are creating it, you must bring water and lightning around it. The water and lightning are used like a key, to unseal the opening. Skylar, you are the only one that can control both. It will be in your hands. Once we get inside, we must stick together. We don’t have a clue what kind of traps or obstacles we will be facing.”

All I heard was that I had to raise this massive body of water. I’d done that to the water by the lake house not too long ago, but this was the ocean. “I don’t think I can do it.” I felt the weight of what I was supposed to do dragging me down…my body was in quicksand, with no one to pull me out.

“Yes, you can,” Mason encouraged, standing in front of me, while tenderly rubbing my shoulders. His eyes lovingly gazing into mine gave me the energy I needed to believe that I could do it. “You did it at the lake house. You can do it again.”

“Well…I think we might as well go home.” Amanda crossed her arms, looking defeated. “How is she supposed to lift all that? I don’t think even Poseidon could.”

“I didn’t mean the body of the ocean. Just the surface, where the water meets the land,” Zara muttered, swiping her windswept hair away from her face.

“Why didn’t you say that in the first place?” Nick shook his head, throwing his hands up in the air. “Come on, Sky. Do what you did back then. Take in the water.”

That was it. Nick’s words lit me up like a wakeup call. It was as if my mind and body knew what to do from his statement. “Okay,” I agreed. “Thanks, Nick.”

Nick looked confused, rubbing his head. “Uh…sure.”

“Back away,” I directed, letting go of Mason’s hand. Everyone scrambled far away from me except for Mason. I knew he wouldn’t. I could tell him that I had the flu and he would still kiss me.

Looking out to the ocean, I spread my arms with my palms up, willing the water to me in my mind. Feeling the sudden wind slice through the air and seeing the clouds tumble in fast motion, I knew I had called it. I recalled icicle water penetrating through my stomach before I passed out at the lake, so I knew what had to be done. I had to be one with the water.

At first, nothing happened. All I heard was the sound of the breeze and the echoes of the waves crashing to the shore. Then, small, sphere-shaped liquid particles flew out of the water, flying straight into my stomach. It all seemed like it was happening in slow motion as they seeped inside me. As my body was immobile, taking them all in, I felt no pain…only slight chills from the coldness. I was relieved when it stopped, but awed at what I had done. Water had risen from the surface along the shore.

“It’s enough. You did great,” Zara praised, and started to create a portal with Tara’s help.

Fascinated by the massive swirls the water was creating in the air, my eyes were deadlocked on them until Zara spoke with urgency, breaking me out of my trance.

“Skylar, I need water and lightning around the portal. Do it now. Once it opens, we must hurry. We won’t be able to hold it that long.”

Without hesitation, I called upon the lightning from above with one hand while the other hand manipulated the water. Placing my hands closer together now, I started to move them in circular motion, mimicking the movement of the portal. Water and lightning bonded and traced the shape of the portal, getting thicker and growing by the second. It looked like the face of a tornado.

“Get in everybody!” Tara shouted, as the wind howled with force. It got stronger and angrier, as if some kind of powerful being was trying to prevent us from entering. “Skylar, you have to go last. Once you enter, the portal will close.”

“I’ve got you.” Mason held tightly around my waist as we watched our friends push through. They were having difficulty entering from all that wind blowing around them. “When you’re ready, let me know.”

“Okay,” I said, already feeling weaker.

The strength of the wind slapped the water across my face, breaking my concentration. My whole body started to tighten, feeling like I was holding more weight than I could carry. When my arms began to slowly fall, I knew I had reached my limit. Thank God, everyone had entered. Before I even had a chance to let Mason know I was ready, the portal had closed half way. When I felt a yank, I knew Mason felt the same urgency as I did and didn’t hesitate to do what he needed to do.

Landing on pebble covered ground, I glanced at everyone. They looked like they had been dampened by rain…Mason and I were worse. I had no idea what to expect down here, but so far it was non-threatening. The air was humid, and the odor was tolerable—mostly it smelled like soil. It looked like we were at a cave entrance. Lanterns had been hung every few feet and were glowing just enough to give us visibility of the surroundings, as if they were anticipating our arrival.

“Follow me,” Zara said, breaking me out of my observation. “This way.”

Following the path, all I heard was the sound of our shoes grinding on the pebbles, kicking up dust. If there was to be a surprise attack, we had just shouted to everyone in the underworld that we were there. What gave me the most eerie feeling was how the lanterns would light up when we moved forward, like a motion detector, and how the lanterns behind us would turn off on their own, creating nothing but darkness.

I could imagine ugly underground creatures lurking, following only in the darkness, ready to attack us. I even thought I saw several pairs of red lights when I turned to look. Not wanting to alarm everyone for no reason and put them in panic mode, I kept quiet. As long as they didn’t seem to want to harm us, I figured we should leave them alone.

Everyone huddled closer together, because we had no choice at that point. The rough, rocky structure was closing in on us. The cave was narrowing, getting tighter so we had to form a line. It was bad enough that the ceiling was low, maybe ten feet tall; it made me feel like I was being boxed in. I didn’t know how long we trudged that way…then bam! Bodies collided.

“What the hell?” Amanda snipped. Backing away only caused more confusion. Bodies bumped again, then pushing, shoving, and cursing came next. “Why did you stop?”

“Don’t push me,” Sarah warned.

“Back up,” I heard Zara command.

“Now what?” Everett asked, looking annoyed, trying to move out of the line.

“Is this a trap?” Noah asked.

Neither Zara nor Tara answered. They were too busy feeling the structure with their hands. Was this a dead end? We came this far for this? Before I lost my mind, I convinced myself that this was just one obstacle we would have to overcome and panicking would only hinder us.

“No. Everyone calm down. We need to go one at time,” Zara sighed in frustration. “The door will only open to one person at a time. Don’t be alarmed if you hear a question. You must answer it.”

“How do you know this?” Mason asked. “For all I know, you could be leading us into a trap.”

Zara stared hard at Mason. “I know you don’t trust me, but you have no choice right now. It spoke to my mind. Just like it will speak to yours when it’s your turn.”

Mason seemed satisfied with her answer, or realized that he had no choice, so he backed away.

“Who will ask?” Tim looked flustered.

Zara didn’t answer. I didn’t think she knew. “When you enter the realms of Hades, a part of you must die. As you give away a part of your memory, you will be allowed access further in. It’s like giving a gift. It doesn’t want material things; it wants a piece of you.”

“Die?” Amanda cried out. “I’m not telling him any of my secrets, and I’m certainly not going to give him a piece of me.”

Tara rested her hand on Amanda’s shoulder. “Relax, my child. You will gain them back when you return to higher ground.”

“Oh…why didn’t you say that in the first place?” Amanda’s face flushed, but I wasn’t sure if it was from the air that seemed to have gotten thicker, or from being embarrassed.

“Where will it take us?” Nick scooted toward Mason.

“I don’t know.” Though Zara looked composed, she couldn’t hide her fear from me. I could smell it. Whatever she said next would be words to ensure our safety and nothing more. “Don’t worry. You will be fine. Whatever you do, do not accept any gift that might be presented to you, and please do not drink or eat from here. If you do, I can’t help you. You’ll be stuck in the underworld. That is the way it is. I’ll go first. I’ll wait for you on the other side. Tara, you follow after me, just in case I need your help.”

“Of course, sister,” Tara said, then took a step behind her.

Zara stood at the dead-end. It took a few seconds for what looked like a boulder to split open in the middle. All I could see was darkness when Zara stepped in. It didn’t stay open long enough for me to see anything more. It shut so quickly that if Zara hadn’t moved as fast as she did, she would have been crushed. The image of that thought sent chills down my spine.

Aaron grabbed Tara before she could position herself. “If there is danger out there, you’ll let us know, right?”

“I’ll try my best, but I don’t know if I will be able to communicate with you from the other side.”

Aaron nodded and let go. He looked worried and distraught. I didn’t blame him. We could be walking into a trap, fire, or Hades, who knew? I could see fear and tension in my friends’ eyes. I was almost certain they were each holding their breath, as I was. After they entered one by one, it was just Mason and me left.

“I’m not sure if I should go first or you. Either way, I can’t be there to protect you here or there.” Mason caressed me from my cheek to my hair, and pulled me in for a soft kiss, then placed his head against mine. It didn’t matter what kind of kiss Mason gave me, it did funny things to me inside, making me want more. It was as if he drugged me with his kiss, making me high, giving me just enough. I was addicted to his touch, unable to satisfy my craving. He had no idea how he made me feel. “Don’t let this be the last kiss, Sky. Promise me. If something bad happens, turn back and run.” Mason let out a heavy sigh. “But I know you won’t listen.”

“You’re right. I won’t listen. And this won’t be our last kiss. I promise. It can’t be. I think you should go in first. Hades knows I’m here. I can’t explain how I know, but I do. If I go in first, he might not let you in.”

“Okay.” Mason gave me another slow, tender kiss, pulling my bottom lip with his teeth, as if to savor this moment. He turned away from me and waited.

Seeing only darkness when it opened, my heart yearned to yank him to me, but my mind told me I had no choice. Before I could make up my mind, Mason looked over his shoulder, giving me that sexy wink, making me lost for a second, then the door closed. With not a second to lose, I stood in the space where Mason had stood a second ago and waited.

Standing with my back toward Sky, I heard a voice. Give me your worst fear. I didn’t know if Hades was the one speaking in my mind. Regardless, I didn’t like the sound of his low, menacing tone. I didn’t hesitate. My worst fear…something bad happening to Sky and me not being able to save her.

You love her?

With all my heart.

Would you give your life for her?

Yes.

When the door opened, I looked over my shoulder to see Sky and gave her a wink. I saw her lips curl up, then the door slammed shut before I could see the rest of her beautiful smile. As I looked into the darkness, my fingers twitched with my light, ready for whatever was in front of me, but all was quiet. The glow from my body provided light so that I could see the enclosed area. There was nothing to see, only the darkness that engulfed me.

Feeling a soft cool breeze, I stood still. My gut told me something else was there with me. Was it a spirit? Hades? I didn’t know.

“Show yourself,” I demanded. I heard the whoosh sound of the air, then shortly after, a white mist floated in front of me.

There was no shape or form to it and it had no smell, so it was difficult to tell if was friendly. It looked like steam rising from a hot mug. Being that there was nowhere to go, all I could do was wait as the steam gravitated to my chest. Waiting to see what it would do was torture, and my light had no effect on it as it melted into my body.

I heaved a long, loud gasp, and for a second, I couldn’t breathe as my body levitated. Thinking it was going to suffocate me, I panicked, but it wasn’t long before it dropped me. I knew what it had done when I saw the mist escape from my mouth. Just as Zara had said, it had taken a piece of me. I didn’t care what it did, as long as I got to see Sky. Giving a piece of me was better than giving all of me.

“You got what you wanted. Open the door.” My tone was harsh, but at that point, I’d had enough. It seemed like I’d been alone in the dark for an eternity.

Just as I asked, a light appeared and I could see my friends.

“Mason.” Everett grabbed me, and the rest gathered around me as if I was some kind of novelty. Finally, they dispersed after seeing that I was fine. “We’re all here and accounted for,” Everett informed.

“Is Sky here?” I asked anxiously, glancing around. All I could see was more of the tall, rocky tunnel and huge boulders. Below my feet was the same, rocks and dirt, but somehow, there was light. I could clearly see everyone and what was around me.

“No,” Nick answered.

“Who went in first?” Zara asked.

“I did.”

“All we can do is wait.” Tara looked worried as well. She turned her back to me, observing cautiously.

I didn’t know how much time had passed, but it seemed too long. Trying to calculate how long it took me to get there was impossible. It seemed as though we had no sense of time. Some of our friends sat on the floor, while a few of them conversed in small groups.

“She should have been here by now,” I hissed through my teeth. I didn’t realize I was pacing until Nick stopped me.

“I bet she’s manipulating whatever that thing is to her advantage. It knows how powerful she is. She’ll come. We just have to be patient.” Nick was always positive. It was one of the reasons I went to him for advice. He was good at making the worse situation seem like it was no big deal.

I guessed I used to be like him until I met Sky. Not that it was a bad thing. Meeting Sky changed my world for the better. But now I had one more person to worry about, and she wasn’t just any person. She was becoming my everything, and if I lost her, it would be as if I’d lost myself.

I knew Nick was right; at least I tried to tell myself that. Sky would be there soon, but I couldn’t shake off the anxiety…the apprehension. “I’m going to look around. Maybe she’s trapped somewhere. I won’t go far.” I had to do something, even if it was running in circles. Sitting there waiting would drive me insane. It already was.

“I think I can guess what your fear was,” Nick said, out of the blue.

He guessed it, but I didn’t deny it. Losing Sky was my fear. “What was yours?” I asked. Knowing him, I knew his answer before he told me.

“You, Amanda, and Everett are all I have left. Don’t do anything stupid.” His answer was clear.

“You know that you’re like a brother to me, don’t you? And I would do anything for you.” I needed him to know how much he meant to me. I’d never told him before. I guessed now was a good time as any.

“You better. Now go. As long as you’re in my range of vision, I’ll be able to breathe.”

“Will do.”

“Don’t tell me he’s going to look for Sky.” I heard Amanda before I took off like lightning.

A part of me knew Amanda was jealous of Sky. I knew she’d had a crush on me, but that was in the past. But I also knew a part of her was worried for me, just like I would worry about her safety. We were family, after all.

Standing there patiently, I waited for the question that I was supposed to hear in my mind, and thought of ways I could trick him… be clever with my answer. I knew that if I gave him a piece of me, there would be a chance my powers could lessen, and I didn’t want to risk it…but nothing happened. As desperation got the best of me, I started to panic.

I tried to break the door open with my light, but it was no use. I was only hurting myself as it ricocheted off the rocks. Banging on the door didn’t help either, as I yelled for Mason. I was alone with nowhere to go, and with no portal to escape through.

Since I wasn’t going anywhere, I decided to sit down and think things through. Maybe it was toying with me. Taking deep breaths, I slid down and pulled my knees into my chest, trying to think of a way in. Maybe if I kept quiet, it would finally give in. And sure enough, it did.

“Do you feel helpless?” The voice alerted my attention, snapping me up to stand. His tone was low and intimidating, but I didn’t fear it. I didn’t know what Hades’ voice sounded like, so I wondered if it was him.

“Yes,” I answered.

“Do you like being stuck here all alone?”

“No.”

“Would you like to be with your friends?”

“Yes.”

“Give me your worst fear,” he demanded. This time, his tone was assertive.

“I have too many. I can’t give you just one.”

“You must give me one or I will not open.”

The hell you won’t. “You already know it.”

“You do not fear me?”

“No,” I said with conviction.

“How brave you are.”

“I am no braver than my friends.”

“Tell me what you fear.”

“If I tell you, you will take a piece of me. I wish not to tell it.”

“You are a smart one.”

“You showed me my fear; therefore, I’ve already told you. You know it. Now open up.”

I had no idea if the voice would do as I had said, but I had to be stern. I had to show that I was in charge, even though I knew that wasn’t the case. Whether it was Hades or a dark force that worked for Hades trying to play with me, it already knew my fear. He made me feel the separation anxiety by keeping me from my friends. He had purposely kept the door closed as long as he could, just to prove that he was in charge.

“Let’s play, Skylar.” This time around, the tone was mischievous, evil, sending chills of coldness through my body.

“How do you know my name?”

Instead of replying, he opened the door. Stepping inside as fast as I could, I didn’t see the same blackness as when I saw the others stepping in. As horrifying thoughts flashed through me, I could see openings to ten caves.

“Crap,” I murmured under my breath. Where did they go?

“Sky!” I heard Mason’s voice.

As relief washed over me, I ran to where I thought I’d heard Mason’s voice. Just as I was about to enter the cave, I heard Mason call me again, but it was not from where I was standing.

“Mason, where are you?” I shouted.

“Sky, over here.”

I ran two caves over. “Mason, I’m here.” There was nothing but darkness, and no Mason.

“Sky, I’m here.”

Flustered, I ran to the next one.

“Mason!” I called out desperately.

“Sky, are you here?” I heard from another space.

I ran to every single one of the entrances, hoping to find Mason. Then I realized… Mason had never called me. This evil being had tricked me, giving me hope, a sense of security, only to take it back from me. When I stopped moving, Mason’s voice calling my name crashed through my mind like a hurricane. It was loud, strong, and I felt blown away. It was too much, and I had to cover my ears and scrunch down to the floor. Tucking in my knees, I curled up like a ball.

“Stop it!” I yelled continuously, as the walls spun around me. Feeling dizzy, I kept my eyes closed. I jumped up to defend myself when I felt someone touch my arm. Feelings of warmth jolted through my body, and my fingers lit up, ready to attack.

“Sky. Thank God, I found you. What’s wrong? Are you okay?”

“Stay back,” I warned, taking a few steps back.

“Sky. It’s me, Mason. I was so worried about you. What happened?”

“Mason?” My heart found a steadier beat as I made out the shape of his body. When my eyes confirmed it was Mason, I threw my arms around him. “Mason. You won’t believe what happened to me.”

Mason cupped my face and looked into my eyes. “I believe you. Same thing happened to me, too. It asked me what I feared the most. Did it ask you?”

“Yes, but I wouldn’t say it.”

“What is your worst fear, Sky? You can trust me.”

“Can I tell you later?” I snuggled into the space between his neck and shoulder, then backed away. “Where is everyone?” Beyond Mason was nothing but darkness. The air was still thick, but there was something different about where I stood. I couldn’t see anything but Mason.

“I don’t know. But I think if you tell it, then everyone else will appear. They might be stuck somewhere.”

“Mason, how did you find me?”

“I don’t know. You found me.”

“What kind of shock do you send me on my text? What do you say?”

“Why are you asking me this, Sky? We need to hurry and find the others. What is your worst fear? Hurry. Say it.” His tone was urgent and demanding.

I knew Mason better than anyone, and this was not my Mason. At that point, I should have been scared out of my mind, but I wasn’t. As anger blistered inside me, I jumped on the evil being and gave him all the dosage of my volt.

“You fool!” Its body convulsed as lightning struck through it.

“No, you’re the fool, asshole. Now, send me back to my friends before I kill you.”

His body flashed in and out, like a light bulb using up its last source of energy. Next thing I knew, my arms crossed and I almost fell over. When I found my footing, in front of me were my friends, staring at me with their eyes wide. Dragging my hands through my hair, I felt flustered and relieved.

“Where the hell have you been?” Amanda scolded. “Mason was going crazy looking for you.”

“Don’t get mad at her.” Nick poked her shoulder. “It’s not like she was having fun.”

“Where’s Mason?”

“Sky, are you okay?” Ian asked, but I ignored him. I couldn’t even look at him. He took a few steps toward me, and then backed away. Though he’d had his reasons for what he did, I was still mad at him. It would take time for us to be friends again, if I ever decided that we could even get there.

“You didn’t tell it, did you?” Zara asked, examining me without an answer to my question. “Are you all right?”

“No, I didn’t tell it. I’m fine,” I answered quickly. “Where’s Mason?”

Just as I asked that question, a wind whooshed past me. There was only one person that could make that kind of air seep through me like a warm blanket.

“Right here.” Mason embraced me like he hadn’t seen me in days, then let go, checking me out as he always did. He had appeared out of nowhere. I figured he was searching for me. “Are you hurt? What happened?”

“What kind of shock do you send me on my text? What do you say?”

“Why are you asking me this right now?” Mason looked flustered, then cleared his throat. “Can I whisper it to you? Everyone is staring.”

“Yes.” I smiled. I needed to know. This was the only way.

Mason held me tighter and licked the tip of my ear. “Sending you a love shock, baby,” he whispered. “Maybe more next time. Satisfied?” His tone was smooth and hot, sending waves of tingles through me. I could already feel them. I had to take a moment to settle myself and remember where I was.

“Yes,” I murmured, feeling dazed. This was my Mason, for sure.

“Now that you two had time to make up, I think we should get going,” Zara said. “Sky, you can fill us in as we move forward.”

As we followed behind Zara and Tara, Mason held my hand. It was good to be back with my friends.

Looking around, I noted the ceiling was high. I tried to tilt my head back to try to find the end of it, but I couldn’t. It was like looking at a black hole, or looking at the night sky without stars. How was it bright in there? Where was the light coming from? I didn’t know how far we’d been walking…until I saw a puddle.

At first, that was all it was…just a puddle. But strangely, with each passing step, the puddle grew, expanding its length, its dimension, and possibly its depth. It seemed to be following us.

“What the hell?” Tim gawked in apprehension.

“We’re almost there. Keep away from it,” Tara warned. “We don’t know what it is.”

Amanda arched her brows in confusion, walking beside Noah. “Really? I thought it was water…you know, the stuff that looks like a clear liquid. I sure wish I could have some right now.”

“Isn’t it a bit too early or late to be sarcastic? You’re very good at observing the obvious,” Nick joked.

“Yeah, well….” Amanda stopped talking when Noah distracted her by creating animal shapes made of water in front of her. First, it was an elephant. It dissolved, then changed into a giraffe, then a dog, and then a lion. Amanda stuck her finger through it, but it never lost its shape.

“Here. Open your mouth.” Tara took out a dry, white cloth that was the size of her hand, breaking up the water animals with it.

“Open my mouth? What are you going to do, gag me with it?” Amanda backed away.

Tara opened her mouth and squeezed the cloth. Water dripped from it. “I’m giving you water through my cloth.”

“That’s…magical.” Amanda blinked in surprise.

One by one, we got our share. It moistened my mouth just enough.

“It is. One sip is equivalent to a cup full. That should help for a while.” Tara placed the cloth back into the pocket of her cape.

I didn’t know how long we were walking, but I knew we’d walked a long way, and what was once a puddle was now a full-blown lake of dull, murky water, leaving us a path to walk on.

“Now what?” Sarah asked. She had been mostly quiet during the journey so far. Holding her shield and sword in place, she was always ready for battle.

“We wait,” Tara answered.

Aaron picked up a stone and threw it into the water. From his position and angle, the stone should have skipped across, but instead, it dropped. Clouds of vapor wafted out where it had sunk.

“It’s acidic water. We can’t cross it.” Ian looked hopeless.

“We’re not going to cross it. Don’t you know your Greek mythology?” Colin stepped forward. “We’re waiting for the reaper.”

“Colin is right,” Zara intervened. “He’s coming as we speak.”

“You can see him?” I looked as far as I could, but I couldn’t see anyone.

Mason pointed. I knew he was going to do something amazing. He had developed the ability to operate his light to a different level. Light emanated from his fingertip, traveling in a straight line. It stretched and elongated. When it stopped, it spread like a spider web, and then…bam! It lit up like a huge flashlight, giving us just enough light to see a boat coming our way from far beyond. But there was no one on the boat.

When the boat was closer, I wasn’t sure if it was my imagination, but it seemed to be getting dimmer and the water looked like black ink—thick and heavy. The closer the boat came toward us, the darker it got. When it docked, a man appeared, wearing a black robe with a hood over his head, standing in the middle of the plank. I couldn’t make out his face. In fact, I couldn’t see it at all. It was just an empty space. But I could have sworn I saw a pair of yellow lights where his eyes should have been, if he even had any.

“One by one,” it said in a deep creepy tone.

The black boat wasn’t big, but it was big enough for all of us. There were no seats. I assumed we had to stand, but that thought made me feel uneasy, especially knowing if one of us fell in, the acid in the water would eat us alive. Luckily, there were poles that we could hang on to, just in case the ride was bumpy. I hoped it wasn’t.

“I’ll go first.” Zara stepped in front.

When she wasn’t moving, I knew it was asking her a question in her mind. Not again! One by one, everyone entered. Mason and I were last.

“You go first,” Mason said, giving me a tender kiss on my forehead. “I’m right behind you.”

“Okay.” It was strange to look into a black hole where a face should be. Though I couldn’t see the shape of his body, he towered over me, possibly eight feet tall.

Give me your happy memory, it ordered.

You already know it.

That is not an answer.

That is my answer.

“Sky, what are you doing?” Mason asked, resting his hand on my arm. So happy to see him, I had forgotten to tell him about how I tricked the last being.

“Trust me,” I said, and took a step onto the boat.

Something white and long whipped out, preventing me from going in further. I freaked out and cringed when I noted it was a skeleton arm, and seeing his boney fingers wiggle was a ghastly sight. When I looked down the length of the cape in curiosity, his shoes were covered. Images of his skeletal, bony feet popped in my mind. I figured he wouldn’t have worn shoes if the rest of his body looked like his arm.

“Let her go. You can have two of mine.”

“No, Mason. I’ll tell you,” I said quickly. “It’s when—”

“Too late. Once it’s spoken, you can’t take it back,” the reaper chided.

“It’s okay, Sky. You need your strength more than I do. I’ll be fine.”

Having no choice, I got on the boat and scooted over next to Nick, to make room for Mason. Seeing not one, but two white mists escape from Mason’s mouth was horrifying to watch. It seemed as though his face became pale, almost ghost like, and looking at everyone else, they looked the same way. I wasn’t sure if it was caused by the darkness of the surroundings, being that there were only a couple of lamps that hung on the boat, or my imagination. I hoped it was just my imagination.

“I gave you two. Let me enter.” Mason was waiting patiently for it to move its bony skeletal arm.

“I asked for one, but you gave me two,” it harped. “It’s like collecting tokens, not more and not less.”

“You’re kidding me. You said I could give you two.” Mason’s eyes were lighting up and his tone was on fire.

“I didn’t ask for two.”

“That’s it.” Mason’s light wrapped around its arm, the arm that prevented Mason from entering, and tore it off, then tossed it into the water. The arm sizzled from the contact with the acid water as the bubbles engulfed it, disintegrating it.

The being never made a sound, nor did it even flinch.

Mason hopped on aboard and turned to the being. “Next time you piss me off, it won’t be just your arm. We all cooperated and did what you asked. Now get us across.” Mason’s tone was demanding and he showed him who was in charge.

Next thing I knew, the reaper was gone. He was like Houdini. A second ago he was standing in front, then as soon as Mason said his piece, the reaper vanished to appear at the other side of the boat. What the heck? Not only that, he was steering the wheel with two hands. Strange! Mason had just ripped one off.

Mason held me close as the boat started to move. It felt like the boat was gliding on ice instead of floating on water. Not even a sound of the boat moving through the water could be heard. Though the boat was moving at a slow, steady speed, our bodies stood still like we were standing on land.

“Whoosh. Whoosh,” Nick whispered.

I turned to him and saw that everyone did too.

“What?” Nick looked at us.

“Shhh. You might disturb the water.” Aaron’s eyes threw daggers at Nick.

Nick shrugged. “It’s the sound it should have been making anyway.”

Leave it to Nick to lighten the mood. Mason shook his head with a grin. It was the second time I’d seen him smile since we got there; but then again, none of us had anything to smile about.

“What happy memories did you give the reaper?” I whispered to Mason, not wanting others to hear. I knew he couldn’t give me the exact ones, but I knew he could tell me a little bit about them and what triggered those thoughts.

Mason looked at me, surprised that I had asked such a question. “The first one was about my mom. It was during the time before Nick’s mom came into our lives. She was happy and so was I. We didn’t worry about the supernatural. We were living normal human lives.”

“And the second?”

“You, Sky, and my family. Remember when we had Thanksgiving dinner together at the cabin, right before you were taken by one of the vultures?”

“I do. How can I forget that night?”

“We were so happy, laughing, smiling, and talking about what normal people talked about and do. I hope we can get to that point one day.”

I caressed his face, wishing I could give him reassurance, to say something he could hold onto, but I couldn’t. We were far from being normal. And if by some miracle, we were able to bring Zeus and Poseidon back from the dead, then just maybe we could have a chance. Zeus and Poseidon could rule what was once theirs, and the descendants of gods could just be that.

“I like your happy memories, Mason. Maybe one day….” I had no words left to say. He knew as well as I did that it was nearly impossible, but we all could dream about it. There was still hope.

Soon after, the boat anchored. Once again, the reaper zapped into the air and appeared at the end of the boat.

“I’m not giving you anything from me, you creepy skeleton,” Amanda huffed, but I could see fear in her eyes when it turned face to face with her. I could imagine Amanda having chills down her spine, seeing through the emptiness, hoping nothing hideous would pop out from it.

“Don’t do anything hasty,” Zara warned. “We don’t want to disturb the peace. I don’t think it wants anything. It’s just escorting us out of the boat.”

“Oh.” Amanda cowered, letting out fake laughs.

Everyone got off the boat except for Nick, Mason, and me.

“Bye,” Nick said to the reaper. “Don’t want to ever see your face; or maybe I should say don’t want you to ever see my face.” He chuckled at his own joke as he jumped to shore.

“You get off first.” Mason gestured by giving me a slight tug behind my back.

Once I got off, I looked behind me. My heart started thumping faster, anticipating something bad happening, or Mason having trouble like the last time.

“You may go,” the voice said to Mason.

As soon as Mason’s one long stride got him off the boat, he tugged the reaper’s cape down to his level and put his face into that empty space. “For the record. I didn’t ask for your permission.”

I was afraid of what the reaper would do after Mason let go, but thank goodness nothing happened. Sometimes Mason could be arrogant and bold in a given situation. It was a part of him that I was attracted to. The boat started to drift backward, and a second later, it disappeared.

Mason was fired up today, but I couldn’t blame him. I was annoyed too when the reaper toyed with him before he got on the boat. What the hell was that for? It was already annoying that we had to go through a lot to get to Hades; anything more was just fuel for the fire.

“Now what?” Noah piped in, staring into pitch darkness that was covered by mist from the ceiling down.

“Be patient. It will appear,” Zara stated with excitement, but there was fear in her eyes. Just like the rest of us.

“What will appear?” Everett asked.

Amanda pointed straight ahead, looking stunned. “That.”

As the mist evaporated like a slow moving curtain, a giant double door materialized. I could only see the thick, gold door and nothing else. It was almost as tall as the ceiling and as wide as the cave. I felt so tiny compared to the grandness of it. With fancy, intricate designs and inscriptions, it was beautifully crafted.

“Want me to knock on the door, or can I ring the doorbell?” Nick chuckled.

“No. You must tell it your saddest memory. Then it will let you through,” Zara explained, heading for it.

The fog that had covered the door was now floating on the ground. I couldn’t see my shoes.

“I’ll go first.” Zara’s cape swayed across the whiteness, and as always, Tara followed her.

I had thought the door would open, letting in one person at a time; instead, Zara went straight through the door. I guessed the door was an illusion.

When only Mason and I were left, I suggested he go first. Again, my reasoning was that it might not let him go through once I was in. Seeing Mason walk through it as I stood alone gave me goose bumps. I didn’t want the same bad experience happening again while we were separated. Thinking of my parents, and the reason why I was there in the first place made me braver and more determined.

“Give me your saddest memory.”

“I have none.” This time I decided to speak out loud instead of in my mind.

“Give me your saddest memory. You must give one to enter.” His tone was louder and more demanding than before. It was the same being. I could never forget the gruff, cold voice.

I didn’t want to give it mine, so I gave it what popped into my mind, another reason why I was there. “My saddest memory was the day the gods were divided. Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades were once strong and united. They balanced their world with love and devotion to their people. Now, everything is gone because of greed and revenge. Nothing good can ever come out of these evil feelings. Look at where we are now. Almost everyone is dead. Where is Olympus, your home? Over time, the gods will be forgotten. They will only be a legend, a myth, and a story told from generation to generation. Some stories will be made up, and some stories will even be lies. This is truly tragic.”

“That is not your memory.” His tone was so fierce and strong that it made me jerk.

The voice was trying to intimidate me, but I wouldn’t let it. “Yes, it is. It might not be my personal memory, but it is a memory of the present.”

I didn’t know if my answer would be acceptable, but I got an answer when the door seemed less apparent. Thank God! Becoming one with the door, I walked right through. But never would I have ever imagined seeing this.

“Give me your saddest memory.” He demanded.

“The day the assholes killed my mom. They didn’t need to kill her. She was innocent in all this. The war was between the gods, not the humans.”

He didn’t say a word after that, just let me through. Once I was on the other side, the first thing I saw was the fog. It was too dark to look further, but there was just enough light to see the walls of the cave and boulders, and the ceiling that was just as high as on the other side. But I was most stunned to see Amanda crying.

Spotting Nick next, I was just about to ask him why he wasn’t consoling Amanda from her cries when I saw him crying too. What the hell? And so were Everett and everyone else, except for the Oracles. Though they looked somber, their eyes glistened with liquid.

“What’s going on?” I placed my hand on Amanda, but she didn’t look up. She continued to sob as tears poured down her face.

“We are weaker now. The reason is, we are affected by the emotion we gave away,” Zara explained, sniffing.

“How do you stop this?” How wrong I was to think I might not be affected. My heart ached without warning, the kind of pain that ate me up, cutting into every piece of me—my bones, my muscles, my heart, and my soul…till it felt like I wanted to rip my heart out to stop the pain. Then the tears came, blinding my vision, and I had no idea why I felt this way. There was no memory from the past playing in my mind; it was just the feeling of sheer, unforgettable sadness.

“Not you too,” Sarah cried, rubbing her tears away.

“Wh…where’s…S…ky?” Everett had a difficult time with his words from weeping too much. I wondered what his saddest memory was, but I could take a guess and I would probably be right. I was pretty sure it was about losing his mom.

“Damn! I never cried so much.” Nick stood beside me. “Don’t tell anyone about this. This will ruin my reputation. I’m crying like a sissy, and I can’t control it.”

“Maybe Sky can stop this.” Aaron gasped, and his breath quickened from trying to stop the tears.

I wanted what Aaron said to be true, but I also didn’t want Sky to see us this way, especially me. It would break her heart. Maybe she would be affected too. I was also surprised to see how much the color of our skin had changed. Placing my hand out in front of me, it looked like a zombie’s hand—dull and dead. I knew pieces of us would die and our powers would weaken, but I didn’t know we would look like this.

Now that I had no tears left to shed, I needed to try to control this urge. I closed my eyes and slid down against a boulder, waiting for Sky. I hoped it wouldn’t be too long.

“Mason?”

I stood up to see Sky looking baffled. I would have too. Having her hand on my arm gave me warmth, easing the coldness and emptiness I was feeling.

“Sky.” I stood up and embraced her, hoping this pain would go away from her touch and presence, but it didn’t.

“What’s wrong with everyone? Why are they crying?” she asked.

Tara stood before us and answered. “It’s our saddest memory. We can’t stop.” She wiped her tears with her cape.

“It’s too much to bear.” Kneeling down on the ground, Aaron’s hand was over his heart.

Sky walked away from me, away from us. “Why are you doing this?” she shouted. “They’ve given you what you wanted.”

“Your friends are paying the consequences of your words,” he answered. I was surprised to hear the being speak aloud. “They are feeling the pain of all gods that have suffered over the centuries. You did not give me your memory; therefore, you do not feel the pain, but your friends will suffer the wrath of your doing.”

I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. This being was cruel. Skylar looked at us with tears in her eyes. The sight of her friends bent over and aching from the empty memory that wasn’t theirs must be killing her.

“Stop! I’ll give you what you want. I’ll give you a piece of me.” Sky shuddered, hugging her arms around herself.

“It’s too late, little girl. If you play games, I’ll play them too.” His tone was cunning, and I could tell he enjoyed toying with us. Was this Hades himself, or an evil being that guarded the underworld? I didn’t know.

“Then I’ll give you something else. Anything you want. Just stop the pain,” Sky begged.

The evil laughing sound echoed harshly around us, so piercing that I had to cover my ears. “This is going to be fun,” he said. “Pick door number one or two.”

Sky glanced around and so did everyone else. “What door? There’s no door?”

“Are you too blind to see, little girl?”

Sure enough, two doors appeared behind the darkness, similar to the door that we’d entered through, but the size of a bedroom door.

“If you pick the right door, you’ll get to see Hades. But if you pick the wrong door…well…need I say any more? It was nice playing with you.”

“Okay. I’ll do it.”

As soon as Sky said those words, the pain in my heart stopped. It was as if nothing happened. The tightness that coiled through every inch of me vanished. We all gathered around her and waited to see what would happen next.

“Are you worthy to be here, little girl?” the voice asked. “Let’s find out. But first, let me show you what happened to those who have come before and lost the game.”

The dimmed light grew brighter as the white fog dissipated, showing more of this massive cave. It reminded me of the inside of Mt. Hem when the stalactites fell down on us, so I looked up but only saw darkness. Chills ran down my spine as I imagined what could possibly fall from above.

My body shuddered in fear when I saw what it wanted to show us. Black ashes and skeletal remains of heads and bones were piled up on both sides. There were many little piles, but there was enough to shock the living hell out of me. And I knew everyone else felt the same way when I saw them standing motionless, and their eyes displaying despair and horror.

“Which door, Sky?” He asked excitedly, as if he was giving me a gift I wanted. Two black doors appeared in dark space. One was marked with number one and the other two, both glowing with fire.

At that moment, my fear was replaced by anger. I was mad at Hephaestus for putting us in this position, and I was mad for being this supposed saviour, but having no idea what the hell I was doing. Something bad was going to happen here. My gut told me it would.

Mason must have seen the flustered look on my face. “It doesn’t matter which one, Sky. You know whichever you choose, it will be the one he wants to give us anyway.”

Mason was right. He just reminded me of how cruel it was.

“Sky. We are almost to Hades,” Tara reminded me, her violet irises glistening. “We are here with you. Our powers might be weak, but we are strong as a group. Do not fear my child. Just remember, you have the power of all three.”

Those were the words I needed to hear. Tara may lack words at times, but she spoke when I needed to hear her wisdom. “Open door one,” I commanded. I wanted to cuss at it and call it names, but it would probably just laugh at me, and what good would that do? I needed to prepare my mind and save my energy for what was to come.

At first nothing happened. All was silent as we waited and anticipated the reaction. Then the door thrashed opened with a loud bang, startling everyone. I jumped and my heart leaped out of my chest. I knew he’d done that on purpose, to give rise to our fears. As my pulse skyrocketed and my heart slammed against my ribs, we huddled closer.

Seeing nothing but darkness through door one heightened my awareness, and the mist that slowly crept out, like a thin layer of clouds, spreading and covering our feet, brought another level of fright. The ground started to shake, then a sound like thunder boomed, getting louder…louder…until it sounded more like a stampede.

My imagination got the best of me as I envision buffaloes charging for us. Roaring sounds burst in the air when a dozen of the Cerberus’s offspring tried to charge through at once. I would have preferred the buffaloes, but instead, we got Hades’s guard dogs.

Their glowing red eyes were what I saw first, then their vampire-like teeth, and last, three heads to a body. With serpent’s heads on the tips of their tales and lion-like claws, they looked like they could rip us to shreds as they dashed toward us, as if we were a gourmet meal.

“Hades’s dogs. I should have guessed.” Zara quaked, standing next to Tara. Extending both of their arms up, they were creating a shield. Blazing light engulfed us.

“You should have guessed sooner, but I don’t think it would have mattered.” Nick’s eyes glowed, ready to fight. “Here puppy, puppy. Let’s play.”

Aaron’s hands and body lit up like a torch, while Colin and Sarah had their arrows and swords ready.

“Here they come!” Amanda bellowed. There was fear in her tone.

They were a lot bigger than what I had imagined. Seeing that the shield was holding gave me relief, and the breath I was painfully holding released with a long sigh. But when countless beasts kept coming out of the door, I knew there was no way that the Oracles could hold that many from breaking through the barrier, especially when I saw the shield getting smaller and the light flashing like a wire that had gone wrong.

“Get ready to fight!” Zara yelled. “We can’t hold anymore.”

“Stay close, everyone. If we stay in this circle, we can cover each other’s backs,” Mason directed.

Then it was chaos. There was no room for fear, no room for doubt. At that moment, it was life or death. The eyes of the pack of Cerberus’s offspring burned like fire; their jaws snapped as they snarled, and their tails whooshed like whips.

Mason and I held up both of our hands and used our lights together, to rip the bodies of the ones darting toward us in half.

“Watch out for their tails!” Colin alerted. Using his sword, he sliced through a hissing tail. The beast growled in pain, only to turn around and show all three sets of teeth.

“Holy Zeus! Fire is blowing out of their mouths.” Sarah held her shield up to cover Ian, Tim, and herself. Tim got up when given the opportunity and willed his power to throw a long, sharp spear right into the beast’s mouth. It collapsed to the ground from being injured, then Sarah sprang in front and chopped off its head.

“I could use some water here!” Ian bellowed. He was completely surrounded by fire.

“Not a problem.” Noah drew water from the mist with his power and put out the flame. Then Aaron brought out the fire from his hand and turned the beasts into ashes. “Fire against fire,” Aaron said.

“Duck, Aaron,” Noah ordered. It was the coolest thing to see. Noah and Tim shot out countless icicle darts. They flew in unison, penetrating the beasts’ bodies and freezing them in place; some were even caught in statue positions in the air. They shattered when they hit the ground, then liquefied. It was a smart move. They had just created more water to manipulate.

Too busy watching Noah and Tim, I didn’t know what had happened to Aaron until I turned to leap away from the tail that would have crushed Mason and me. Aaron hadn’t seen the one from behind. Zara wrapped her cloak around him, concealing Aaron just as fire engulfed him. Within a few seconds, Zara let go. Aaron was back to himself. He was lucky; the only thing that saved him was the fact that he was descendant of Apollo.

From the corner of my eye, I could see Amanda and Everett. They were fast, strategic, and graceful with their swords. A part of me wished I could use one and look cool like them. Amanda and Everett leaped onto a beast from behind and stabbed the knife into the center head, then moved to the other two. They jumped off just as the tail came swatting at them. The beast dropped on the ground to its death.

Zara and Tara were telekinetic. Waving their hands in the air, they directed the beasts to slam against each other or against the boulders. They, too, turned to ashes.

Lightning, fire, and water were everywhere, as I heard the ugly, horrid sounds of death from the beasts. When it seemed like we had won the battle, more came charging out. There was no end. I could tell my friends were getting tired and so was I. Our clothes were tattered, burnt, and some of us looked like we’d been playing in the mud. I had to do something or the outcome would be bad; but what?

Since our circular protective formation had moved away from the center, it would be easier to take cover near the boulders. The beasts were pacing with menacing looks on their faces and their tails slithering like snakes…they were getting ready to attack at the right opportunity. They were intelligent creatures. I could tell they were calculating from the way they moved and pierced their eyes at us. While the first group had come at us as if we were their meal and they had been starving for weeks, this group was the opposite. They toyed with us. It seemed that they were looking for our weaknesses, finding that perfect spot, the perfect opportunity to strike, either with their teeth or the poison from a bite from the serpent’s tail.

“Maybe you should have picked door number two.” Ian’s fingertips sizzled.

“Where do you think the second batch came from?” Mason snapped. “This was never a win situation.”

“Run to my right,” I instructed. Recalling what Poseidon’s descendant had done before, an idea suddenly came to me.

When we backed up against the boulder, I kneeled down in front of them. Harsh air blew in my direction from the beasts’ hiss. They seemed confused by our position.

“Sky. What are you doing? Get up!” I heard panic in Mason’s voice, but I knew what had to be done if we wanted to get out alive.

“Noah. Tim. Let’s freeze these suckers. Mason. Ian. Nick. Zap them with your light as soon as we’re done. Go!”

From our powers, the mist turned to ice and started to spread. The beasts whimpered and retracted, unable to balance on ice. Some escaped, but the ones that couldn’t, turned into ice sculptures.

“Now.” I nodded to Mason, Nick, and Ian.

The three of them extended their arms as their lightning broke the crystal like sculptures in rippling effects. We had to protect ourselves as ice particles darted out like bullets. Then…all was quiet…all was still.

Mason spun me around and kissed my lips. “Great job, Sky.”

Everyone looked so relieved, but it was short lived when Zara spoke. “Don’t celebrate yet. Time is running out. We need to get going.”

“Where?” I asked.

“Through the door.”

“No way. I’m not going in there,” Amanda retorted. “That’s where the beasts came from. What if they’re waiting in there for us?”

“I think we’ve killed plenty. I don’t think they’re coming back, at least not this soon.” Tara sounded hopeful, running her hands as if to brush her hair. The Oracles always looked so proper and prim. It must have driven them crazy that they might not look as such.

“Fine. You can stay here.” Nick started walking ahead, followed by the rest.

“Don’t worry. I’ll keep you safe.” Noah placed his arms around Amanda, giving her security as they headed forward together.

“I’m so glad Amanda has Noah.” Mason accentuated the word “so.” Interlinking his fingers through mine, we rushed to catch up with the rest of the group.

I didn’t know what we would face on the other side, but I didn’t expect to see a banquet of dishes laid out with assorted gourmet food. Either the table was following us as we walked, or the table was that long. I couldn’t tell. I kept seeing the same things over and over again. I was sure I had passed the same turkey five times. Though it felt like my mind was playing tricks on me, I was more worried about my stomach.

From the aroma, my stomach was churning, prickling with hunger pains. I could tell my friends felt the same by the way their eyes were glued to the table. The layout and the types of food displayed was tantalizing, taunting us. I just hoped we didn’t give in to our temptation.

“Where did this come from?” Aaron leaned closer to the biggest turkey I’d ever seen. He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply. “It sure smells like the real thing.”

“Is this real?” Colin’s finger was inches away from the steak.

“Don’t touch that.” Nick slapped Colin’s hand. “It’s a trick. Didn’t you hear what Zara said? But Ian can touch it.” He arched his brows. “He can eat all he wants.”

“Thanks,” Ian spat, with a sarcastic tone. “I can tell how much you care about me.”

“Anytime. After all…that’s how we treat traitors,” Nick accused.

“I’m not a traitor,” Ian rebutted.

“Whatever you say. Whatever makes you feel good.”

“I’m so hungry.” Amanda looked like she wanted to dive into a plate of the biggest shrimp I’ve ever seen.

“Don’t look at it, Amanda.” Noah pulled her away. “It’s an illusion. The longer you look at it, the harder it will be to turn away.”

“Look at all these desserts.” I didn’t know Aaron was a dessert kind of guy.

“Whatever you do, don’t pick it up. If you take something from here, you must give something back,” Zara warned again. “You will be trapping yourself down here without a way out. It wants your soul. Now, run before the temptation overpowers you.”

It didn’t matter how fast we ran, the table kept expanding with us.

“What’s going on?” Noah sounded worried. I could hear the shuffling of his feet right behind me. “It keeps following us.”

“Stop thinking about food and it will go away,” Tara said, looking over her shoulder at us.

Finally, one by one, the plates disappeared. It seemed as though it had showed us what our minds desired to eat at that moment. Walking further, we came to another cave, but a lot smaller this time. Not only that, there were several more entrances, leading to who knew where. Strangely, it was bright, but when I looked up to see the source of the light, I gasped. Fire!

Fire hovered beautifully across the ceiling. There was something mesmerizing about the way it burned in the colors of yellow, orange, and red. Thank goodness it wasn’t massive, but just enough to give light, and unfortunately…heat. Oddly, there was no smoke and we didn’t have difficulty breathing. It was no wonder I didn’t noticed it till now. But I could feel the burning heat seeping into my lungs.

“Stay close,” Zara warned. Covering her nose and mouth with her hands, she led us forward cautiously.

With each careful step, I tried to minimize the sound of my footsteps and looked for anything that would cause an explosion or set off a trap. It was so quiet that I could hear the thumping of my own heart beating mercilessly. There was so much adrenaline pumping through my body that I needed something to happen to relieve this rush. I didn’t have to wait long.

The ground started to rumble. The sound echoed through all the entrances, booming like a thunderous storm. Light flashed like high beams, getter brighter. Then the heat intensified.

“Fire!” Ian burst. “It’s coming for us.”

The flames hugged the surrounding walls, filling the cave as they spread.

“I don’t want to die.” Those were Amanda’s favorite words.

“Put it out, Noah!” Nick shouted.

Noah and Tim did the best they could, but the air was too dry and thick. They had no source to draw water from. There was no way out. Zara and Tara tried to build a shield around it, but it didn’t seem to be holding. This couldn’t be the end. There was a reason why Hephaestus thought I was ready. Then it came to me…tame the flame and it will all be yours.

“Everyone, get close to me and get down!” I ordered.

Just as the flames were about to reach us, I stuck out my hands. Like a massive hose, water flowed out from them. I turned like a propeller, putting out all the fire. It was so hot that the ground sucked up the water. The fire disappeared as if it had never happened.

“Clever girl,” the voice said. Every time it spoke, it gave me aching, terrifying chills.

“Who said that?” Everett spun around.

“The same voice that asked you for all your memories.” Zara stood up to straighten her cape. When she turned to me, the look on her face told me that this wasn’t over.

“Battle formation,” Mason ordered.

“Not the beasts again.” Colin got his sword ready.

I didn’t know why he had thought it was the beasts until I heard their roars.

At that point, we were all tired, and I’d had it with these crazy games. Enough was enough. Tame the flame and it will all be yours wasn’t meant for the water. It was meant for something else. I wished the gods wouldn’t speak in riddles.

“I got this. Everyone down!”

“Sky, what are you doing now?” Mason gripped my arm. “They’re coming from all the entrances. You can’t take them by yourself.”

“I can, Mason. Trust me.”

That was all I had to say. With a nod, he got down. Extending my arms like I did before, instead of water, fire came out from my hands. I didn’t know how I did it, I just knew it had to be done, and my body automatically tuned in with my mind. It was the first time I had done this, and I was overcome by what I was doing. The flames poured from my hands and traveled around us like a protective barrier; it was dangerously beautiful. My friends didn’t fear it; instead they embraced it, making it easier for me to control it.

For some strange reason, besides having fire between us, the countless beasts positioned to attack stopped from advancing. I was sure they could have dashed through the flames or jumped over them, but they didn’t. They barked, growled, and snapped their jaws, but they didn’t dare come any closer.

When I stepped toward them, they took several steps back. I kept doing this until they were a good distance from my friends. I had to show these creatures that I was the boss. Not really knowing what I was doing, but using my gut feeling, I held the fire in front of me and blew out my breath like I was blowing candles out. The fire quickly dispersed around them and then disappeared. Unexpectedly, they folded their hind legs and sat with their heads down, then a few seconds later they dropped to the ground. Seeing movement from their chest meant that they were still alive.

“Are they dead or just sleeping?” Sarah’s tone was shaky and scared.

I poked one of them. “I think they’re sleeping.” Stepping back, I was shocked at what I had done.

“Why didn’t you do that before, Sky?” Ian hesitantly took a step closer. He bent lower to take a closer look at one of them.

“Boo.” Nick chuckled, appearing from the other side of the beast Ian was by.

“Shit! Nick.” Ian grabbed his chest.

Nick sure knew how to bring sunshine to the rain.

“Don’t ever ask Sky that question,” Mason warned Ian. “Next time, you’ll be grabbing something between your legs.”

Though this was no laughing matter, I had to snicker at that, but it was very short lived.

“Now what?” Everett asked, dropping his sword by his side.

“We pick a cave,” Tara said.

“What? Really? Eeny, meeny, miny, mo.” Nick pointed to the one on the left. “I guess we’re going to that one.”

When we approached the first entrance, fire exploded from the ground, preventing us from going in. I tried to put it out like before, but I couldn’t do it.

“Okay,” Nick sighed, with a hint of disappointment. “I guess we go to the next one.” Nick led us to the second one and the same thing happened, then repeated on the third.

“What now?” I asked in frustration.

“You know what to do,” the voice rang menacingly around us.

His wicked laughter vibrated through the walls. This time, the voice sounded different, a little less forceful, a little less intimidating, and strangely a little less evil. And it was definitely not the voice we had been hearing since the start of this journey. My gut feeling told me that this voice belonged to Hades.

As if he’d put the thought into my mind, I knew exactly what to do. Even knowing Mason would be extremely mad at me for it, there was no choice. We had come this far. I had to do it to save my parents and get us out of there.

“If I come alone, you have to promise me you won’t harm my friends. You have to give them a clear path to home,” I requested, talking to the fire. I had no idea why I was. To me, the being was the flame.

“You dare to bargain with me?”

“Yes, I am, so do it,” I gritted through my teeth in anger. I was surprised at myself for being brave, but I’d had enough. We were down to our last straw, overwhelmed with fatigue.

“Very well. I promise,” it assured.

“You swear it?” I asked sternly.

“You have my word.”

Feeling the weight of everyone’s stare, I turned to the one that mattered the most. Mason looked at me as if I had just told him I didn’t care about him anymore.

“No,” he whispered under his breath, shaking his head. “I have to go with you.” Holding my hand, he spoke again. “I have to go with you, Sky.” He turned to the flame. “You let me go with Sky or there’s no deal.” Mason’s eyes were full of rage. His fists were tight, glowing through the space between his fingers and mine.

“Very well. If you can pass, you can come. That is the deal.”

I let go of Mason’s hand and caught my friends’ eyes one by one, as I prepared for my speech. “My friends, this is where our journey ends. Thank you for coming with me. There are no words to tell you how grateful I am. We all have lost loved ones in the past and in the present, and now it’s time to put this to an end…to a better future. You are ensured a safe road back home. Zara and Tara will lead you back.”

“Sky.” Zara took off her cape and placed it around me. Like magic, the cape that was once purple with strips of blue was now red. I probably looked like Little Red Riding Hood. “This won’t help you much, but it will keep you cooler in the heat. It will also help you become invisible when you need it.”

“Thank you, Zara. I won’t need it, but I will leave it on.”

“Be safe. We believe in you. You were born to do this. Whatever happens, it’s your destiny.” Zara kissed my forehead, then Tara did the same.

Everyone surrounded me. There were no words to say. I was basically walking into a death sentence. It was going to be either Hades or me that would come out alive. Their smiles gave me reassurance, but their eyes were deathly afraid for me.

Inhaling deeply, I steadied myself, then turned to Mason. “Mason, I don’t think you can walk through fire.”

“Sky, I have to try. I’m not letting you go alone. I can’t.” He looked so worried that it was tearing me to shreds. His love and concern for me was outweighing every rational thought that should be running through his mind, like knowing he couldn’t go through fire.

“Mason…you and I already know…only I can pass. I’ll be fine.” I tried to make my tone light and full of confidence that we’d be together again soon, but it was nearly impossible when he was holding me tightly in his arms.

“Sky….” Mason said my name with so much pain that it hurt me to hear it. “I can’t lose you.” He buried his face in my hair.  “I swear. If something happens to you, I will never forgive myself. I need you to come back to me, you hear me? Or I might as well die.”

Tears were streaming down my face and sadness squeezed my heart. It felt like I was saying goodbye. “I love you, Mason. No matter what happens, I’ll always love you. I’m coming back to you. Send me a love shock before I go.”

I quickly wiped my tears before Mason could see them, but I knew he could tell that I was crying when he looked at me.

Placing his hands on my arms, he spoke again. “I don’t care how you do it, you get out of there if you think you don’t have a chance, do you hear me?”

“Yes.”

“I know you have to go, but I don’t want to let you. I know you can take care of yourself, probably better than I can, but I just need to be there.”

“I know. But you can’t be there all the time for me, Mason. I’ll be back. Love will bring me back to you, and I have tons of love for you.” I smiled.

“Sending you a love shock, baby,” Mason said somberly.

The charisma and the playful tone with which he usually said those words were replaced by sorrow. Then he crushed my lips. His hands gripped the back of the cape in desperation. Feeling energy weave through my body, I knew it was from Mason. But strangely, this time, it wasn’t pleasurable; it was dull and full of sadness. I was feeling his pain. When Mason broke away, I glanced at my friends one last time. They looked worried and hopeful at the same time.

“Kick Hades’s ass,” Nick sneered. “Give him back a dose of his own doing.”

“Maybe you can negotiate with him,” Everett suggested.

“Whatever you do, Sky, make sure he doesn’t trick you,” Zara advised.

“Just know that we will be thinking of you.” Mason’s tone was different this time around. He was encouraging, rebuilding my strength. “Know that we are waiting for your return. Know that I’m with you. And Sky…kick his ass. Don’t hold back. Get the asshole that started this war.” Mason winked.

Mason’s words had given me courage. It was time to go. I had wasted too much time saying goodbye. The flame erupted higher when my body made contact with it, but I passed right through. Though the urge to look back to see Mason one last time was strong, I didn’t do it, for his sake. I didn’t want him to see the doubt or the terrified expression on my face.

Fire was everywhere, outlining the ceiling, the walls, and the ground. It expanded with every step I took…always one step ahead of me, as if it was leading the way. Being one with the fire, I didn’t feel any effects from it. I felt no heat and my breathing was normal.

After walking some distance, the cave opened wider. In front of me were two simple, stone thrones against the darkness, but I couldn’t see anything beyond them. In the center was a huge, unlit fire pit filled with ashes.

“Welcome to my home,” the voice said—the same voice I’d heard not too long ago.

Standing against the wall for support, I had to try to calm my frantic heartbeat. I didn’t want him to hear how scared I was.

“Show yourself,” I commanded with an authoritative tone.

“You can’t see me? What kind of savior are you?”

I hated his mocking tone. He was nowhere to be seen, but the voice was coming from above, and from a position where I could spot him, if he was there at all.

“I’m the saviour that only wants to get rid of evil.” I held my head high as I tried to sound brave.

“You can’t get rid of evil. It will always be there. Don’t you know that? The world is about balance. If there is light, there is darkness. Therefore, if there is good, there must be evil. So, tell me…why are you here?”

“You already know why I’m here.”

“Being a god you’d think I would know, but unfortunately, I don’t know everything. However, I can take a guess. Either you want me to do you a favor, or you want to kill me.”

Feeling a little bolder, I walked toward the pit. It was the only thing standing between the throne and me. “You started this war with your nephew, and now Hephaestus is out for blood from all the gods and their descendants. He wants you dead. You did this.”

“I already know that…just as I want him dead. He has turned against me.”

“Is revenge all you care about?” I raised my tone. “How about all the descendants that have died a tortuous death by the vultures you created with Medusa? How about all the pain you’ve caused from the loss of loved ones?”

“You know nothing of this war. You and everyone else are against me, but you do not know the truth.” The fire burst, then died, mimicking his anger.

I backed away. “Then tell me.”

There was a short pause. For a minute, I thought he wasn’t going to say another word, but he did.

“Do you know what it feels like to be cast as the bad seed? Gods are not perfect. We feel, we hurt, we hunger for passion, and sometimes, we feel the need for revenge. I have a bad temper, but so do my brothers. Unfortunately, mine was worse. Who made Zeus the king? He did, because he claimed he was the first born, when it was really me that was. I was eaten by the Titan first—my father—and because I was first, I was released last. Zeus appointed himself as the king, proclaiming himself as the first-born. Since Poseidon didn’t care, he agreed.”

“So you were mad? That was the reason why?”

“Yes. Zeus wouldn’t hear the things that should have been done. It was his way or no way. I know I had faults, but my brothers tricked me. They said they would send me to a place where I could rule as the king. They failed to mention that I would be underground by myself. Yes, I am the king here, but I rule over the dead and the evil things that roam about. I hated my brothers for treating me like this, so when an opportunity arose, I took it. I thought it was my ticket out of here. Hephaestus came to me with a plan and promised to rescue me from this hellhole, but instead…well, you know the rest.”

“You shouldn’t have done what you did. You have given permission to that monster, and he’s creating more vultures by injecting them with a drop of my blood. When mixed with ambrosia, the humans will become what you’ve created. Humanity will be destroyed, and he will be the king of the place which you once admired from afar.”

“I’m sorry. There is nothing I can do.”

I believed him. His tone was softer and sympathetic, and I was surprised by his words.

“Yes, you can do something about it. Fix your mistake.”

“What is it that you think I should do?”

“Sacrifice yourself and give me the lodestone.”

I jumped back even further when flames blasted out of the fire pit, burning higher until a figure emerged from it. Only having a view of his back, I watched in admiration as he turned to sit on the throne. He was over six feet tall, with muscular arms and broad shoulders, and his body looked masculine and god-like in every way. He looked like the ultimate bad boy, with a devilishly handsome face.

I was surprised to see him in a white, silky robe with a gold slash around his waist; but then again, I should have known he would be dressed like the olden days. Though his sleeveless robe fell the length of his body, I could see the decorated gold sandals showing off his feet. The loose-fitting robe provided me with a glimpse of his ripped chest and sometimes, his strong thighs, depending on the way he moved.

Hades examined me with his stunning, piercing blue eyes. His thick brows arched in amusement and his lips twitched. I knew he was checking out what I was wearing—jeans and a pink sweater. I understood why he would. My clothes probably looked strange to him. As laughter rumbled out of his mouth, his whole body shook. “Sacrifice myself? Is this some kind of joke? And what are you wearing?”

“No. This isn’t a joke,” I stated with conviction, but I was hesitant. It was easier to speak my mind when I was talking to the space instead of to a god sitting in front of me. Feeling intimidated, I changed the subject back to his other question. “This is what humans wear now.”

He shook his head disapprovingly. “You’re dressed like a servant. And what if I don’t sacrifice myself?”

“You’ll leave me no choice. I’ll have to kill you.” I tried to sound confident, but my tone betrayed me.

“Kill me?” He rumbled a laugh again. “How? Gods cannot be killed. We are immortal.” Hades rested his elbow on the arm of the chair and placed his head on his fist, looking bored.

“But…I can.” I peered up, feeling heat vibrating through my muscles, current crackling through my fingers, and water flowing through my veins as I prepared to show Hades exactly what I meant.

That got his attention. Hades sat up, rolled his shoulders back, and took me seriously. “How would you do that? Obviously you are more powerful than any that have come before you. Hephaestus has sent many, and not one has succeeded…thus the reason why you saw all the bones and ashes. And the few that made it to my domain never made it out alive. What gives you the idea you can?”

“By using both the powers of Zeus and Poseidon…and yours.”

Hades eyes grew in anger, turning them from blue to red. Flames shot out from them when he stood up in defense. “You threaten me, little one?” His tone became louder and harsh. “Let’s see if you can even handle my flames.”

I was engulfed in fire. Every part of my body felt it, but I felt no pain, nor was I affected by it. Having had enough, I extended my hand, and not only did I put out the fire, I returned the flames back to Hades. Though I knew it wouldn’t affect him either, what surprised him the most was how I’d imprisoned him. Water swirled around him like a tornado, trapping him.

Every burst of flames Hades retaliated with, I put out. His concerned expression indicated he had finally met his match. When I called upon the lightning over him, he cowered lower, but he continued giving all he could.

“Do you surrender, or must I kill you?” I yelled over the flame, water, and the lightning flashes. Never would I have imagined I would be at this point. I had the power to kill a god. It was surreal and too much to comprehend. Just a little more from me and I knew it would be the end for him.

“You wouldn’t dare kill a god!” Hades had no choice but to get down further. He was almost kneeling.

“Want to see?” I only meant to give him a little bit more dosage, but I got carried away. The water put out the entire fire, then started to freeze. It covered the floor and moved up to his legs. In just a few seconds, he would turn into an ice sculpture, and with my light, I could destroy him. It happened so fast, I didn’t know if I could stop it until I heard the cry for help; a plea that was not from anger, nor from evil, but from love. And because of that, my heart softened, and I was able to control it. It hadn’t come from Hades; it had come from the woman that stepped in front of him.

“Please, stop! No more.”

“No, Persephone. Go back.” He swatted his hands as if he could push her back.

“Persephone?” I repeated her name louder than I had intended. When I brought my arms down, Hades was released. He managed to settle his stumbling steps and drop to his throne, looking overcome.

Persephone swayed gracefully to the side, evaluating me. “Yes. It is I. It’s winter in your land. Don’t you know your Greek mythology? Where else would I be?” Her tone was sultry and sweet, yet it was meant to belittle me.

From what I remembered, Hades had kidnapped Persephone. He tricked her into eating pomegranate seeds, so that he could ensure her stay based on how many seeds she ate. By the time she figured out what was happening, she had eaten six of them. I also recalled her being blonde and blue-eyed when at home with Demeter, her mother, but when with Hades, she was dark eyed and dark haired. Seeing her this way only confirmed what I was told.

She was as beautiful as her name. With one long braid resting on one side of her shoulder, she wore a long, black gown that formed to her chest and flowed out gracefully.

“How can you stand to be here? How can you love him after all that he has done?” I was judging her, though I knew it wasn’t right to do so. But I was mad at her for making me think about what I was doing. I could have killed Hades and it would have been over and done with. I could have been back with my friends. Now it would be difficult. I would have to worry about Persephone’s persuasion, as she already had done.

Persephone started pacing, seemingly gathering her words, and then circled around the pit. I wished she would stop moving. It was making me nervous.

“Do you even know what love is? Have you ever loved anyone so much that you would do anything for this person?” She questioned finally, stroking her long braid as if it was a pet.

I had, but I didn’t answer. Mason and my parents came to my mind. I could imagine Mason losing his mind from being worried about me. He was waiting for my return.

“Hades had faults,” she resumed. “I’d be the first one to admit that, but he has changed his ways. Being stuck here for who knows how long, he wants to make amends with his brothers.”

“The brothers he has killed?” I snapped.

“No,” Hades retorted. “They’re still alive. I asked Persephone to keep her eye on all of them. They need to be rescued. They are imprisoned by Hephaestus’s iron casts.”

“How do you know this?”

“Hephaestus told me,” Hades confessed. “He told me his plan before—”

“Before you agreed to seek revenge upon your brothers,” I reminded. “You tried to kill us when we tried to reach you. Why should I believe any of this?”

“I didn’t try to kill you.”

“Liar!” I seethed.

“I don’t have control over what is out of my kingdom. Once you enter the underworld, the evil spirits take over. They are the ones that set the rules now. They control the beasts, not me. I gave it all up.”

“He’s telling the truth,” Persephone persisted. “It’s the reason I don’t leave and enter through the front, but rather the back. Hades has turned away from his ways. He’s tired. He’s wants a second chance.”

“I was hoping you would make it.” Hades soothed in his deep, calm voice. “I just want my brothers’ forgiveness. I want us to be family again, but I can’t leave. The ones that can truly set me free are my brothers, or someone like you, but I can’t leave unless I have all three lodestones. I know Hephaestus has imprisoned my brothers. If you get me the other two stones, I’ll help you get rid of Hephaestus and you can help me set my brothers free.”

I laughed aloud and shook my head. “You think I can be tricked by your false intentions? You want out so you can save yourself and rule my world.”

“That would have been me before, but that is not how I am today.”

Persephone settled herself on the throne next to him and tenderly caressed Hades’s dark hair.  “I assure you, what he’s saying is true.”

“Show me the lodestone,” I asked, looking direct at Hades.

“He doesn’t have it.” Persephone pulled a string from her neck and placed something on the palm of her hand. It was black and small, the size of my thumb. It looked like the stone I was wearing, only darker. “I have it. Hades gifted it to me. It was to ensure Hephaestus would never find it if he was successful in creating someone powerful, such as yourself. But I know you are good. You could have killed Hades, but you heard my plea. You are compassionate. You have light in your soul. I know you know what love is. That is why you stopped. And it’s the only reason why I’m showing you the stone.”

Though every fiber in my body told me not to believe any of this, my heart told me she was telling me the truth, and looking into Hades’ eyes, I knew there was good in him. Like he’d said, gods were not perfect, but I believed they tried to be, just like us. But what if I was wrong? What if Hephaestus and Hades were working together, and they were tricking me to get what they wanted?

“Where do we go from here?” I decided to go with my gut instincts. They hadn’t led me wrong so far. I hoped this wouldn’t be the first time. “Hephaestus has my parents. If I don’t bring the stone and Hades’s head, they will die.”

“Do you know what will happen when you give Hephaestus the stone?” Hades asked. He didn’t let me answer. “Your world will die. At this point, you have no choice but to accept my help.”

“What are you suggesting?”

“Make a fake lodestone and take it to him. Find a way to bring the other two stones. Release me from this place and I will go with you to help free my brothers.”

“Why do you need the other two stones?” I knew the answer, but I wanted to know what he would say.

“Once I leave this place to your world, I’ll need them to heal my body.”

“I want to trust you, but I don’t know if I can.”

“Time is running out. You go with what your heart tells you to do, Skylar,” Persephone reasoned. “That is your name, isn’t it?”

“How do you know my name?”

“I’ve been following Hephaestus the other six months of the year, trying to find his weak spot, and that is how I found you. I know many things about you, Skylar. I’ve watched you since Hephaestus came into your life. You know love. Love is the only thing that feeds hope. Wouldn’t you do anything for Mason?”

“Yes,” I said, hesitantly. Though I didn’t want her to know my weak spot, she knew it anyway. There was no sense in trying to hide it. “But this is different.”

“It isn’t, Skylar.” Persephone took a step toward me. “I didn’t love Hades when he first took me, but I love him now. Not because it’s forced, but because he has changed for the better. What would you do if something were to happen to Mason?”

“Are you threatening me?” I was pretty sure she wasn’t, but when it came to protecting the ones I loved, I would do anything.

“No. I don’t know how else to prove to you, besides letting you know Mason and your friends are safely back home, as Hades promised. They went through the portal.”

“How do I know you’re telling me the truth?”

Hades extended his arm and called upon the fire from the pit. It burst upward, and through the flame, I could see my friends and Mason. Mason was sitting on the sand, staring out into the ocean where the portal was. My heart broke to see him waiting for me. Then I saw his family sitting down next to him, looking utterly exhausted. They were all waiting for me. I was very touched by their gestures. Parts of their clothes were torn and etched with burn marks, evidence that they had been to the underworld.

“Why didn’t he let my friends enter with me to see him?” I asked, when the flames died and I couldn’t see them anymore.

“Because you came here for one purpose. I don’t think it would have been a good idea to have that many angry descendants threatening us, do you? I also don’t think we would have enjoyed our chat.” Hades winked.

Smooth move, Hades! He was trying to distract me with his charm. Hades and Persephone were very convincing, and everything they were saying seemed to add up to truth.

“How do I make a fake stone?”

“You can ask the Oracles,” Hades answered.

“How am I supposed to explain how I got your stone, but not your head?”

“You’re a bright girl. You can figure something out. I’ve been stuck here for centuries; I have no idea what the world above is like. And as for my head, Hephaestus was tricking you. If you were to cut off my head, I would surely die, but we don’t leave any part of our body behind. We turn into ashes, including our head.”

“You both better be telling me the truth, or so help me, I will take both of your lives.” I didn’t mean to sound so cruel but I meant it. I had a duty to fulfill, and that was to take care of the ones I loved. And I had no idea if leaving without the stone and Hades’s head would be the worst decision of my life.

“Let me take you back.” Persephone stood before me. “We’ll go out the back gate. It will lead you right to Mason. He’s waiting for you. At least he doesn’t have to wait six months.” With that, she linked her arm around mine and proceeded to take me away from Hades. She seemed very eager to do so.

One by one, we jumped out of the portal. No one could get out of there fast enough, except for me. If I could have had it my way, I would have waited at the spot where Sky had left me…waited for her and gotten us through the portal together.

Plopping myself onto the sand, my eyes were focused, deadpan, on the space where the portal would appear again. While I waited, the memories I had given up came rushing back to me. It was the oddest feeling to have random thoughts flash back into my mind, but at the same time, I knew the reason it was happening.

“If you don’t mind, I’ll sit here with you.” Nick dropped next to me, crossing his legs just as I had.

I nodded to let him know I was fine with him, without looking at him. I didn’t even want to blink, just in case Sky needed my help when she got out. I didn’t know what state she would be in, or if…I didn’t want to even imagine my life without her, so I stopped thinking of the ‘what ifs.’ “She’ll come,” Everett said, sitting on the other side of me.

“Whatever is going on in there, she’s fighting with all she’s got, Mason. Sky loves you so much, and that love will bring her to you.” Amanda rubbed my shoulder and sat beside Everett.

I knew Amanda was trying to reassure me, but for some reason her words were not helping. The words “fighting with all she’s got” made me imagine things that I didn’t want to think about. If something happened to Sky, Hades would have to deal with me. I didn’t know what I would do, but I knew I would go crazy.

The Oracles and Victor’s group stuck around. I thought they would have gone back to New Olympus, but they surprised me by staying. They weren’t sitting, but rather standing, talking among themselves. After a short while, Noah sat next to Amada.

“She’s alive.” Zara sounded so sure. “I know this because she’s wearing the crystal I gave to Victor. I can feel the warmth from it.”

Her words gave me hope, but I wouldn’t be able to breathe until I saw Sky with my own eyes. As water drifted to and from the shore, the clouds moved at their slow pace, and so did the sun. The beautiful streaks of red and orange were fading into a thin line as the sun was setting, saying goodbye for today.

“You can go if you want,” I said to everyone while my eyes continued to stare at the same spot. “It’s getting colder and windier, and I know you’re all hungry.”

“Sky might not come out until tomorrow.” Tara sounded worried. “Why don’t you get some rest, eat, and then come back?”

Tara must be out of her mind, or maybe she thought I was, but I didn’t care. “I’m not leaving here without Sky. She’s coming back home and she might need my help.”

“Do you see that?” Amanda pointed. “The water is turning, like it’s boiling.”

Amanda was right. I stood up and headed toward it. Feeling the wind push me back, I knew something was happening from the other side. I knew that for sure when I saw Tara and Zara looking concerned and walking toward it with me.

The tumbling water suddenly stopped. The water burst into an oval shape, and then fire blasted out from it. I wondered if I was seeing things when I saw something red come out.

“That’s Sky,” Zara exclaimed happily. “That’s my red cape.”

At the moment it hit me, the moment I’d been waiting for, I was overwhelmed with elation. I ran to Sky, and so did everyone else. Seeing her smile, my heart hammered faster from being relieved to see her looking well. I embraced her tightly and let out long, deep breaths. Her cape felt hot and she smelled like something was burning, but other than that, she looked the same as when she’d entered.

“Are you okay? Are you hurt?” I rambled, as I helped Sky take off the cape and handed it to Zara.

“No, I’m fine.”

“Do you have Hades’s stone and his head?” Zara asked hesitantly, looking at Sky’s empty hands.

“I don’t.”

“What do you mean, you don’t?” Ian’s tone was panicky.

“It’s a long story, but everything will be fine.” I knew when Sky was telling the truth, but mostly when she was trying to hide the truth from me. She couldn’t look at me. And right now as she spoke her words, she shifted her eyes away. “Can we get something to eat? I’m starving. I promise to fill you in.”

“Of course. We should go back to New Olympus.” Tara positioned herself to open the portal.

“Is Hades alive?” Everett got to the point.

“Yes,” Sky nodded.

I heard some light gasps. Girls were too dramatic.

“What does he look like?” Sarah asked.

“Different than I had imagined. Very good looking.” Sky shrugged.

I don’t know why, but her words made me feel a little bit—I didn’t want to admit it—jealous, though I wouldn’t show it.

“Really?” Amanda chimed in. “I can’t wait to see him…I think. Wait…since he let you go, does that mean he’s not as bad as we think?”

“He didn’t let me go, I let him go.” Sky stunned everyone into silence.

“Ask questions while we’re eating,” I told everyone, then grabbed Sky’s hand. “Let’s get the hell out of here.” We jumped into the portal together.

We had all gathered in the dining hall to eat a late dinner of almost the same types of food that were laid out when we were in the underworld. How ironic. The questions would not stop regarding Hades and Persephone, even after I had explained what happened. I could understand why they felt so confused; they were wary, like I was, about trusting Hades.

“I’m confused. How many days do we have left?” Amanda inquired, scooping rice onto her plate. “I have no sense of time.”

“It’s been two days.” Zara held up two fingers. “We have one day left. We can strategize tomorrow, after we get a good respite. I suggest everyone rest up. We go to Mt. Hem in the afternoon. He won’t be expecting us early. It might be an advantage for us.”

“So, how do we get a fake lodestone?” Aaron murmured, chewing a piece of chicken.

“I have an idea.” I placed my water glass back on the table. Water had never tasted so good. “I’m going to need your help, Tara. You’ve been helping Steven conceal his true identity. I’m going to need you to do it again. We’ll have to trick him. This plan requires all your help. Are you in?” I glanced around the table, letting my friends know that I was talking to all of them.

“You know we’re in.” Nick pointed the knife in the air, then brought it down to cut through his steak.

“We need to get Victor and your mom back. We’re in,” Noah said next, wiping his lips with a napkin.

“And my mom,” Ian added.

After everyone agreed, the only sound I heard was the clinking sound of the utensils, plates, and glasses, and hungry people chowing down.

We had retired for the night in our designated rooms. It was odd to be back in the place where my dad had resided all those years, and not seeing him there. Lying in bed alone, my thoughts ran wild regarding my parents. I wondered if Dad was suffering inside the iron cast, or if he was just sleeping…dead to the world. I also wondered what my mom was doing. Hephaestus had better be treating her well, or he was going to be sorry.

It was strange to see him treat my mom like she was trash, when all those years I’d seen him show nothing but affection for her. He’d brought her gifts, doted on her, and treated her like a queen. I wondered if he ever truly loved her, or was he acting indifferent now because she could see his true self, especially after letting us know all the evil things he had done.

A gentle knock broke me out of my thoughts. “Who is it?”

A soft sizzling light glowed at the tiny space between the floor and the door.

“Come in, Mason,” I giggled.

The door cracked open just enough for me to see his handsome face. “Want some company? I couldn’t sleep.”

“I was wondering when you would appear. Took you long enough.”

Mason closed the door behind him and sauntered to my bed. “I was trying to be good and not come to your room, but as you can see, I have no self-control when it comes to you.”

“I don’t want you to be a good, and I certainly don’t want you to have self-control.” I yanked his T-shirt so he was now inches away from my lips.

“I think you just invited me to spend the night.” Mason twitched his brows playfully.

“I think you talk too much.” I bit my bottom lip, anticipating his lips on mine.

“Actually, I would prefer to be known as a man of action instead.” Mason tossed the blanket and swung me over in one swift motion. He was now in the middle of my bed, with me on top of him.

“Hey, you can’t just—”

“I just did.” Mason crushed my lips into his, while his hands gripped tightly on my back. I could feel how much he missed me and how much he wanted me. “Sky, I was so worried.”

“I’m here. I told you I would be back,” I said between kisses. I loved the taste of his lips and the way his hands slowly ran inside the back of my shirt, filling me up with warmth, and immeasurable lust.

Suddenly, Mason flipped over, causing me to be under him. “I know, but—”

“No buts…just shut up and kiss me again. Show me how much you missed me.”

Mason showed me exactly how much. His kisses were wild and hungry. Feeling flashes of warm tingles, I knew Mason was using his lights. Sometimes he couldn’t control it and sometimes he could, but right at that moment, he was on fire. Holy cow! When his hands were all over me and the intensity of his kisses grew stronger, the electrical tingles travelled to the depth of my core; to every muscle, to every bone, and to every vein. Wanting him to feel what I was feeling, I emanated my light on him.

Mason lifted his head. “Sky. What are you doing to me?”

“What you are doing to me,” I panted, out of breath.

“It feels that amazing? I didn’t know. I’m freaking good.” Mason looked so proud.

I had to laugh at his comment, but it wasn’t a joke. He really was that good.

“Why don’t I make you feel even better?”

Mason did not disappoint. The higher the voltage of his love shocks, the more pleasurable the sensations he made me feel. Wanting to return the pleasure, I did the same, matching his intensity. The whole bed was encircled with electric currents of blue and silver lights. It was beautiful and mesmerizing to be in the center of it. Though I wanted more from Mason, I knew he would not give in. He wanted our first time to be special for us when the war was over. I was glad he was the stronger one, because I would give in if he asked. I loved Mason with all of me, not to mention that what he was doing to me had me coming unglued.

Mason pulled away, trying to catch his breath. “I don’t think I’ve used that much voltage on you before.”

“That’s because I can take it and give it back,” I returned, coming out of my daze.

“You sure can, Echo. You’re brave, strong, and can beat the crap out of anyone, even a god. I’m very proud of how much you’re taking in all of this supernatural craziness.”

“I have no choice, Mason. But I can, because I have you and your family. I don’t know what I would have done or where I would be if it wasn’t for you.”

“I could say the same thing, Sky.” Mason took my hand and kissed the back of it.

“You also wouldn’t be in this mess if it wasn’t for me. All the craziness started again for your family when I entered your life.”

“You didn’t pick me, Sky. Fate picked us. You don’t get to choose who enters your life, just as much as you don’t get to pick who you fall in love with. It just happens.”

Mason was right. Just like I didn’t get to decide if I wanted to be the keeper of life or have any of the powers I possessed.

“How did you become so wise?” I teased, running my hand along his bicep and stopping on his lightning tattoo.

“The day I met you, Echo. The day you started repeating everything I said.” His chest shook from laughing.

“Come here,” I said, with a wicked tone, even though he was right beside me.

“I’d rather you come here.” Mason wrapped his arms around my waist and pulled me to his chest. “Go to sleep. We need our rest. I’m going to turn off the lights.” Mason extended his arm and shot out his volt to turn off the light when the door thrashed opened.

“Whoa, it’s just me, Mace.” Nick raised both of his hands to surrender.

Mason’s eyes glowed in silvery lights. They always lit like that when he was in a protective or fighting mode, or when he was excited with me.

Mason and I sat up. “Is everything all right?” Mason asked, planting his feet on the ground, seemingly ready for whatever Nick was about to say.

Nick shrugged his shoulders, looking sheepish. “There’s some kind of noise in my room. It’s annoying.” He glanced around. “Your room doesn’t look spooky like mine.” Though there wasn’t much to see, the room was big enough to have a sitting area. Off to the side were a brown sofa and an oak coffee table.

“Are you scared?” Mason chuckled.

“What? Me? Of course not.” Nick pointed to the sofa. “I’ll just sleep on that thing.” Nick was about to close the door when Amanda stepped in, forcing the door to stay open.

“Hi.” She looked nervous, inching her way toward us. “My room is really big, and you know how I don’t like sleeping on other people’s bed. So I’ll just sleep on the edge of your bed if you don’t mind, since Nick is occupying the sofa.”

“Everett, I know you’re there. Show yourself,” Mason grumbled, ignoring Amanda. Mason not saying a word, Amanda took it as a permission to do as she pleased. “What is wrong with my family? They can defend themselves from vultures, but they can’t sleep alone. Go figure.” Running his hand down his face, he waited for Everett to show himself. He didn’t have to wait too long. I could see Everett’s shadow. He was most likely waiting to see how we would react to having Nick and Amanda in our room before entering.

“I was just following Nick and Amanda. I thought you needed my help.” Everett closed the door behind him. “I think it’s best not to mention this to anyone. I don’t want to offend the Oracles. My room had a funny smell.”

“Oh, yeah, mine too,” Amanda added. “But your room smells…” she inhaled a deep breath, “just right.”

“I see.” Mason’s eyes roamed from Nick, to Amanda, to Everett. “Just right, huh?” He paused. “Mason and the three dorks. Come on, Sky.” Mason held my hand and helped me off the bed as he led the way.

I had to laugh at Mason’s comment. I knew he was referring to Goldilocks and Three Bears, but I didn’t think his family understood, since they had no comeback.

“Where are you going?” Amanda shuffled under the blanket.

Mason opened the door and looked over his shoulder. “To my room. You three can have Sky’s room. Keep each other company. We’ll be across the hall, just in case you need us. Sleep tight and don’t let Nick’s snoring bug you.” Mason shook his head, chuckling.

“I don’t snore. Maybe I’ll purposely snore loud, so you can hear me,” Nick snickered.

“Goodnight.” I giggled just before Mason closed the door.

“I love my family, but sometimes they can be suffocating,” he murmured, under his breath.

“I love you too, Mason.” I heard Nick’s voice through the wall.

“Don’t listen to my conversation.” Mason tried to sound stern, but a small chuckling sound escaped out of his mouth.

“Be nice or I’ll be knocking on your door.” I heard Nick’s voice again.

Mason rolled his eyes and opened his door. “Goodnight, Nick, Amanda, Everett.”

“Goodnight,” they said in unison.

“Don’t be surprised if you wake up and see me next to you.” Nick gave a boisterous laugh.

Mason pursed his lips, trying not to laugh, but I couldn’t control it. “I’m going to lock the door.” Mason winked at me and carried me to bed.

“Do you think it will work?” I asked, studying the stone on the palm of my hand that Zara had given to me that morning.

I didn’t want to bring up the dreadful topic until after breakfast. As we gathered in the meeting room, memories of my dad came flooding back. I felt so guilty and ashamed for treating him the way I had. I acted like a child instead of an adult…I couldn’t help myself. Every time he was around, I was eight years old all over again—the age I was when he left me. I guessed I had never gotten over it, even though I’d told myself that I didn’t care.

“With our help, it should work,” Zara confirmed, shifting in her chair. “This crystal is the same crystal you are wearing now. It once belonged to my sister, Cara, but we took it from her the day she betrayed the gods. We painted it black and magnetized it so when Hephaestus uses it, it will do what the real one would have done. Lodestone encompasses a variety of magnetite. It’s a powerful positive-negative polarity. To realign energy flow through the body, healers use the stone; the reason why Hephaestus and Hades want it…need it, but each for a different purpose.”

“So what happens next?” Nick looked over my shoulder. He got out of his seat to get a better look at the stone.

“Then you all step in.” I stood up, shoving the stone into my front pants pocket. “You’ll have to distract him while Zara and Tara help me release my dad and everyone else that have been cast in iron. We have to get them out as fast as we can. I won’t have time to kill Hephaestus, especially since he disappears like a coward. But he’s stronger and different than before. He has experimented on himself; therefore, we don’t know what he’s truly capable of. I think it’s best to get out and have Hades deal with him.”

“He’s crazy.” Noah placed his arm around Amanda’s shoulder. “Make sure to stay close to me.”

“There’s one problem.” My words stopped everyone in their tracks and froze their smiles. “I need to get the other two lodestones from Hephaestus.”

“But he’ll have them in his possession,” Colin said, twirling his sword. One thing about Colin, he was never without his sword. “You want us to help you get the stones while fighting the vultures and trying to get out of there fast as we can? We need another plan.”

Ever since I’d met Colin, he was all about the plan. Perhaps it was because he was a descendant of Ares, and good at strategizing.

“You can use my cape. It will make you invisible.” Zara took off her cape and wrapped it around me. Again, like before, the color changed from purple to red.

“Wait.” I gave it back to her. “He might be suspicious if he sees me wearing it. I’ll use it when it’s necessary.”

“Good, because I was going to say the same thing.” Colin broke in, dropped his sword, and leaned in closer. “So…this is my proposal. Ian can lead the way since he knows that place inside and out. I know it sounds impossible, but what I’m about to tell you will work…if we work together. We can do this.”

After Colin explained, we were on our way.

We stepped into the portal and landed in the same spot we had escaped from the last time. It was the exact location where Hephaestus had taken my mom. Since Zara knew precisely where we needed to be, we didn’t have to go through the Night Forest like the last time. The structure of the rocky walls looked the same and intact. Recalling the last time we were there, Mason had started an avalanche when he called upon the lightning to help us escape. It was as if nothing had happened.

Walking down the narrow path, my stomach churned and did funny flips from the anticipation of seeing what state my mom would be in, and whether Zara and Tara could help me release not just my dad, but the others as well. Colin’s plan was simple, but executing it was a whole different story.

The narrow path started to open up and the area got brighter. Knowing we were getting closer, my heart pounded faster, heat flushed my face, and I was unable to steady my pulse. What made it worse was that everything was so quiet, except for our feet crunching the pebbles on the ground, and the sound of water flowing along the rocky walls. It was like watching a scary movie and waiting for something evil to pop out from the screen.

“I’ve got your back.” Mason kissed my forehead as we continued to cautiously creep forward. “Stay with the plan. Don’t do anything risky, and watch Hephaestus’s every move. He might already have a scheme of his own.”

“What if I have the opportunity to kill him?” I whispered, feeling like the walls were closing in on me. Though I had no proof, an eerie feeling swept through me. I was sure the vultures were watching us. When I turned to look at Mason again, he didn’t look happy about my question.

“No.” Mason’s tone came out as a whisper, but it was stern. With one fast sweep of the premises, he spoke again. “Think of it this way. If you put yourself in danger, you’ll be pulling me in with you. I go where you go.”

Mason was right and it wasn’t just him. Everyone came along with me.

“Everyone stay here,” Zara directed. Standing by the huge boulder, we huddled closely. “Tara and Sky will follow me. We’re going to release her dad first.”

“How about my mom?” Ian stepped forward, pushing everyone aside.

“I didn’t forget,” I said. “Why don’t you come with me and help us find your mom? We’ll release her after my dad and before the others.”

With that, Ian took off searching.

“Everyone, get ready.” Zara tightened her cape. “Once we start the process, it’s going to get loud.” Then she turned to me. “Let’s do this.”

“It’s too quiet,” I whispered, as Zara, Tara, and I searched for my dad. I tried to remember where he was located, but it was difficult when there were so many of them. Last time I was here, there were only a handful. Maybe I was wrong about the number of them, or maybe he’d imprisoned more. The statues were in rows, the way I’d seen the terracotta army lined up on the Internet.

“Hephaestus is nowhere to be seen. Step one of the plan is in progress so far. We must work quickly.” Tara looked pale and stressed. I could understand the reason. She had been Hephaestus’s prisoner for years, and I was sure being back here brought terrifying memories.

“There.” The crystal in the palm of Zara’s hand was leading the way.

“Dad.” I murmured softly, feeling like my heart was shattering all over again, bringing back the memories of how he’d given up his life to save Mom and Mason. The tear he’d shed just when the iron covered his face was still there. “What do I do?”

“Tara and I will give your dad our energy, and at the same time, you must give him yours…all three powers of the gods…water, fire, and lightning. You must give it in that order. Once you do this, we are going to direct the energy to others. You must focus and stay on task. You are the keeper of life, Sky. You can do this.”

Zara must have seen the doubtful expression on my face, because at the moment, those words were exactly what I needed to hear. Without time to waste, Zara and Tara wrapped their arms about my dad without touching him. I placed my hands on top of my dad’s head…it was cold to touch. Oh, my heart was breaking to see him locked up like this. I wondered if he was cold, in pain, or hungry.

“Sky, now.” I heard Zara’s voice.

Giving all of me, water poured down from my hands, then fire. The water was keeping my dad cool and safe, while the fire melted away the iron. Then came the lightning. It sped up the breakage and jump-started his heart. Then Zara directed this energy to the rest of the statues, but the key to getting all of them was for me to keep my hands on my dad, the source. That was what Zara had told me earlier.

From the corner of my eyes I could see Ian standing next to his mom, ready for her. As the energy bounced from one statue to the next, light grew brighter and sizzled, creating a lot of noise.

“Well, well, well.” I heard the sound of clapping, and Tara hid behind the boulder, as planned.

Frightened at the thought of knowing who it was, I released my hands and saw the light vanish. The iron had already melted from my dad, and just as he was about to collapse, Zara and I caught him. He was weak and cold, but breathing, and that was a good sign. And the others that were released before I had to stop looked dazed and confused. It was up to Colin and Sarah to guide them to the portal.

Hephaestus had shown himself, just as Colin had predicted, but even knowing that he would, he still scared the life out of me. He was hideous in appearance, as I had remembered him to be. With disfigured face and his back looking like The Hunchback of Notre Dame, he was not a pleasant sight.

“Have you no shame, Sky?” Hephaestus approached closer. “Where are your manners? You come only when invited. I didn’t invite you or your friends. You shall be punished for that.” He paused and looked at my dad. “You can’t take him unless you give me what I’ve asked for. Did you bring me the stone and Hades’s head?”

I gestured for Zara to take my dad to where my friends were hiding, while I moved to the center to direct Hephaestus to me. “I have what you want; but first, where’s my mom?”

“You have Hades’s head?” He sounded surprised.

“No, I have the stone. I can’t bring you Hades’s head because he’s dead. He burst into ashes…but you already knew that was going to happen, didn’t you? It was a test and I passed. Now…where is my mother?” My tone was forceful at the end. Hephaestus always pushed me to my limit and brought out the worst in me.

“I can’t believe you killed my uncle.” He looked so proud. “I knew you could do it. I knew you were the chosen one. I believe you because you wouldn’t know for sure how a god dies unless you witnessed it. Now…give me the stone first,” he growled.

“No.” I was just as stubborn as he was. I knew how badly he wanted the stone, so I knew I had leverage.

“Very well.” Seeing a wicked smirk on his face, I knew he was up to something. “Come out, come out, my loves,” he sang, sending chills down my spine. I couldn’t stand his voice, and hearing him sing only made me want to vomit.

The red pairs of lights I was familiar with appeared from the darkness all around the cave, not just on the ground, but from above in multiple leveled floors of the cave. Looked like Hephaestus was hard at work, creating more of the human vultures. What happened next was not a sight I had imagined was possible.

“Mom….” I gasped.

Two vultures were on either side of my mom, holding her by her arms. What shocked me the most was the way my mom looked—dazed and confused. She wasn’t fully turned into a vulture, but I could see the changes in her body structure. She was between the stages. The vulture on her left was holding a syringe, ready to inject her with the second dosage of serum that would transform her for good.

“What did you do?” I yelled at Hephaestus in anger. “How could you do this to her? You love her.”

“Isn’t that strange? You and I must have a different definition of love. The only love I learned from my parents was to use and destroy.” Hephaestus started pacing. I hated when he did that. He was making me nervous. “You see, Sky, I loved your mom so much that I’m going to use her. I’m going to turn her into someone like me, so that we can be together forever. Isn’t that what love is all about?”

“You’re crazy!” I spat. “Let her go. I’m here to give you what you want.”

“You make the choice. Your mom and I will be together forever in this form, or in human form. I think she would look attractive either way. Now that’s love.”

“Here.” I handed him the lodestone. “Let her go as you promised.” I wanted to get this over with.

Hephaestus took it out of my hands with greedy eyes. He held it up and examined it, then placed that stone with the other two he pulled out from his pocket.  “Oh…I don’t think I had promised you your mother back, but you can take your father, which you already did without my permission. And if the weaklings that you just set free can out run the vultures I’m about to let loose, they are free to go. And by the way, your friends that are hiding can come out and watch this revelation.”

Step two of our plan was working so far, but the unexpected set back was my mom. What would we do now? My friends came out of the shadows with their backs against the wall, looking frightened but ready for war.

“Welcome,” Hephaestus announced. “I’m so glad you could join the party. We can celebrate…me. Your new, soon-to-be king of your land. Now that Hades is dead, and I have the three stones in my possession, nothing is impossible.”

After his short speech, he tossed the three stones straight up. When they fell, they magnetized together to become one in midair. Spinning in circles, it glowed like the colors of the rainbow, then a gas-like form seeped into Hephaestus’s body. Little did he know that Tara was creating this magic trick and using her powers to transform Hephaestus back to Steven.

It was gruesome to see the transformation as his face and body morphed. Steven touched his cheek, nose, and eyes, then looked down to his body as he was transforming. He looked so pleased and satisfied that it seemed as though nothing else mattered at that moment.

“Now!” Mason directed, and everyone threw smoke bombs. These had been created by Zara and Tara, at Colin’s suggestion, and were the size of small rocks that could be easily hidden. Step three of the plan was in progress.

One landed in front of me, meant to confuse Hephaestus and giving me an advantage to snatch the stones. Having all three stones in my possession, I slipped on the cape Zara tossed to me and became invisible. She had managed to creep closer while Hephaestus was busy watching himself. Narcissistic ass.

Nick and Noah stepped in front, step four of the plan. They were supposed to distract him so I could get a head start to the portal…only I took a detour. I was going against our plan, but I couldn’t help it. Everett and Amanda were supposed to grab my mom, but how could they when, not only was she enclosed by vultures, but she was becoming one?

Lightning, fire, and water spears flashed across my vision as the vultures came at us in full force. Shoving the stones in my pocket, I searched for my mom as the vultures sizzled by my lights or burnt to a crisp by my fire. They had no idea what was hitting them, especially since they couldn’t see me.

I was pretty sure that Zara and my dad were safe, since I didn’t see them anywhere, but I knew Mason was still here. No matter how many times I had told him before we arrived to leave without me, he would disagree. I’m glad he did. What I saw next caught me off guard.

“Mom.” I tugged her arm after I turned the vultures holding her captive into ashes.

“Skylar. No.” Her voice didn’t sound like Mom’s.

The mask or magic wore off, showing Ian’s friend Mia’s face. I had hoped she had changed her ways, but obviously, she was still working for that monster. What was her motive? I didn’t know.

“Mia?” I was so shocked and confused that I hadn’t noticed she had taken off my cape. I felt a hard sting on my cheek as my face whipped to one side. Then the pain erupted from my stomach when she shoved her knee into it. Curled up on the ground, all that was on my mind was my mom. Had Hephaestus turned my mom into a vulture? Was she here? Did one of us kill her?

“This one is for Alena, you….” Just as Mia came for me again with light blazing from her hand, I blasted her with fire, and at the same time lightning struck her. That was not from me. Fire engulfed her, then she turned into ashes.

“Good riddance, Mia. That’s what you get for being Alena’s friend, and that’s what you get for messing with my Sky.”

Mason helped me up and guarded me with his body. Seeing the red cape in his hand, I sighed with relief. I didn’t want it to be in our enemy’s possession. Surrounded by the vultures, I could see Nick, Everett, Amanda, and Noah, ready to attack.

“What happened to your mother?” Hephaestus asked in a mocking tone, keeping his distance from me, still in human form. I knew Tara was still around. Nick and Noah did a great job distracting him, but they couldn’t hold him off for long. “Did you kill her because she tried to kill you?”

“Steven, you are going to take my world in your hands; at least let me spend a few days with my mom.” I tried to bring back my sweet voice, the voice he had heard many times during our dinner conversations. “Remember how much you loved my mom? I’m sure she still loves you. After all, you were the one that helped her move on. She wanted to marry you. Do you remember that? Do you remember what it feels like to love someone and to have that person love you back?”

Seeing a confused expression on his face, I was hoping my words would soften him up a bit, and give us just enough time for my friends to search for my mom. They couldn’t make any sudden movements, but they were in a position to glance around.

“Silence! You’re all fools. Love only hurts you, and in the end, love will kill you. Just like how your dad tried to kill you, and like how my dad tried to kill me.”

“My dad didn’t try to kill me. You drugged him with vulture’s blood,” I retorted, feeling anger take me over. I had to calm my nerves for my mom’s sake. “You did this…not him.”

“That’s right.” He looked so proud. “That was one of the best days of my life. It was a turning point.”

“You can fix this. You don’t have to follow in your father’s footsteps. You can mend the wrong and make it right. You need to find what was once good in you. You need to find love again. Love will end your pain and heal your wounds. The scars might still be there, but you can make it right. You love my mom. Let her go…please.”

“Your mom is all I have.” For a second there, he sounded subdued. I almost felt sorry for him…until his tone changed. “I’ll never let her go.” His tone was spiteful and full of hatred. It was a reminder that sometimes, evil beings can’t change their ways. “The stones you took from me, they won’t have any effect anymore,” He continued. “I used up the power. It’s useless. I’ve won.”

The proud look of triumph on his face made me want to throw up. That’s what you think, asshole. I held up five fingers. This was our signal to run to the portal. Hephaestus had given me the words I needed to hear. My mom was safe, somewhere, and that was all that mattered. I would come back for her with Hades, but right now I needed to get everyone out of there. “Do you know what happens to those who use others to get what they want? They tame the flame and take what’s theirs. You made me who I am today. I’m going to show you exactly what I can do.”

Fire blasted from my hands as we backed away, reaching for the tunnel. The others were waiting for us by the portal. That was the plan. It wasn’t easy when the ground shook like the last time, mimicking Hephaestus’s anger and hearing his words echo throughout the cave. I felt like I was swallowed up inside his chest, feeling the vibration of his evil laughter. You can run, but I will find you. I’m your king now. When we reached the end, Tara was the only one left besides Mason by my side. “Everyone is through. Hurry, Sky. I can’t hold it that long.”

I was just about to enter when I heard the loud, painful, angry roar and the walls started to shake again.

“He’s changed back to himself,” Tara said. “I’ve released him. He knows now.” Tara looked scared.

“Let’s get the hell out of here.” Mason didn’t waste any time. He tugged me through with him before anything could have a chance to fall on us.

Step six of our plan, meet at the lake house. When Mason, Tara, and I got there, Dad was lying on the coach, spiked with fever. Zara held a cold cloth over his head while performing some kind of spell.

“Is his fever going to go down?” I stared at my dad’s pale face.

His eyes were closed, his teeth were clenched, and from the way he shivered, he looked like he was in pain. Every few seconds, his body would shudder worse, most likely due to the shock from the temperature. By the time I had melted the iron, he was completely drenched. It was the only way to keep him from being burned.

Dad’s clothes were now dry. I couldn’t remember what he wore that day, but I knew Zara’s magic had dried his clothes. It was bad enough that I didn’t get the chance to rescue my mom, but seeing my dad like this was torture. I had to think of the bright side; at least one of my parents was out of that hellhole.

“I’m doing the best I can. I’ve never experienced this before,” Zara said, looking offended.

As I wondered if Ian’s mom was experiencing the same effect, I glanced around the room. “Where’s Ian?”

“He went to New Olympus. Aaron, Colin, and Sarah went back with him,” Noah explained. “I’m wondering if Ian’s mom is having a similar experience as Victor; and how about everyone else that we released?”

“I don’t know, but I need Hades. Hephaestus will be coming for us with his army of vultures,” I reminded.

“I can’t help your dad and help you with the portal.” Zara looked at me, tormented by her duties.

I was just about to tell her I had another way in, when I saw a movement from my dad. As anticipation filled me, I kept still, hoping he would open his eyes or say something…anything.

“Sky….” My dad called weakly.

“Dad.” I dropped down to my knees and held his hand in mine.

I was so overwhelmed with happiness to hear his voice that I couldn’t help the tears that formed in my eyes. There was so much I wanted to say. I wanted to thank him for always watching over me, and I wanted to apologize for the way I had behaved. I knew he would understand, but now, knowing he was drugged to kill me and everything he had been through, I felt awful. But knowing it wasn’t the time to pour out my feelings, I would wait for the appropriate moment.

His eyes fluttered, trying to stay open. “What…happened? I told…you…to…run.” His words were barely audible and broken, but I could understand what he was trying to say.

“You know I won’t listen, especially when we found each other again. I also had no choice. He has Mom.” I tried not to sound panicky, but I couldn’t help it. Everything was happening too fast. Though I didn’t want to worry my dad, he had the right to know, so he could understand the reasons for my actions.

“What do you mean?” Dad groaned lightly.

Even knowing how heartbroken he was going to be, and even knowing he shouldn’t be hearing such news in his condition, I told him anyway…everything, including going to the underworld.

Dad shook his head and released a long sigh after hearing all I had to say.

“I need to release Hades. I’ll be back.”

“How?” Tara dunked the towel into the bucket, and then squeezed it to hand it to Zara. “I can try to open it without Zara.”

“Actually, I don’t need to go in. Persephone is with him. She’s going to open the secret passage, the way she enters and exits. Then I’ll use my powers, allowing Hades to come out. I also don’t think it would be a good idea if all of us go. Hades might feel threatened.”

“I won’t go, then,” Noah offered. “I should check up on Ian’s mother and see how everyone is holding up. They’re frightened, especially since Zara is out of New Olympus.”

“I’m going with Sky,” Mason said.

“So will I,” Everett seconded.

“You mean, we could have entered without having to risk our lives with those hideous dog beasts?” Nick’s pitch rose with annoyance.

Mason nudged him with a light punch.

“I mean…that’s too bad.” Nick rolled his eyes. “I loved playing with the little puppies with three heads that wanted to chomp my head off and burn me alive. That was so much fun. Let’s not ever do that again.”

“Don’t worry.” Everett wrapped his arm around Nick’s neck, tugging him toward the door. “We’ll play with humans turned monsters that want to rip our hearts out instead. You know, those beings called vultures? Now that should be real fun.”

“You know what’s even better?” Nick twitched his brows with a smirk smeared across his face.

“Ouch.” Everett jumped back several feet with lingering lightning bolts shimmering around his body. It was strong enough that he landed on his butt.

“Now…that was fun,” Nick chuckled, holding a look of challenge in his expression.

“You’re going to get it.” Everett stood up, looking dazed.

Though our situation was no laughing matter, it felt good to release some tension with a good laugh. It was one of the reasons why I enjoyed Nick’s company. He was the one that took things lightly even in the toughest moments.

“Hey, guys. Out.” Amanda opened the door. “Sky, we’ll wait for you out here.”

After they left, I focused back on Dad.

“Sky, please be careful.” Dad squeezed my hand, but it was faint. “I want to tell you not to release Hades, but I’m going to trust you instead. Go with your instincts.” Dad tilted his head back to look up to where Mason was standing above him. “Protect Sky as you always have.” Then his eyes closed and his grip on my hand fell.

“Dad,” I whispered softy.

“It’s okay, Sky.” Zara placed her hand on my arm for comfort. “He’s sleeping. I fed him herbs that will help him heal, but he needs to sleep. His blood is different from yours even though you come from him. He doesn’t heal as fast as you do.”

“Okay.” With a nod, I stood up. “I’ll be back.”

“Tara can go with you…just in case. She can direct you to the right place and help Hades with the stones.”

“Thank you,” I said, then gazed at Mason. Mason always looked at me with love and support. He didn’t need to say a word. His look said it all…I will be there by your side.

“We’ll be back,” I said to my dad, who was already asleep, while I smiled back at Mason with the same expression.

Ever since we’d gone to the underworld and had to deal with one problem after another, Mason and I hadn’t had a chance to breathe. But it didn’t matter. I knew how much he loved me. I only hoped he knew that I loved him just as much, if not more. What I treasured was our stolen moments…his small gestures of love, whether it would be a wink, a feather light touch to my cheek, or a quick peck on my hand or face. Mason never failed to let me know that he was mine.

“Are you sure this is the place?” Mason asked. “We’re right back at the same beach.”

“Yes. I’ll call upon Persephone. She’ll be able to hear me.”

“You have the three stones?” Mason asked, looking concerned.

I pulled out the stones from my pocket. “I have the real ones. I hope this works, or Hades will die.”

“I can’t believe I’m going meet Hades,” Amanda said eagerly.

“I’m not sure how I feel,” Everett added, shoving his hands inside his front pockets.

Nick clapped his hands together. “What are we waiting for? Let’s get this party started.”

“Get ready,” Tara said, holding up her hands to the sky, and so did I.

I knew it was working when the breeze started to pick up. A second ago, the sun was visible, but now it was covered beneath the rapidly moving, gray clouds. I covered my eyes when the howling wind picked up sand, thrashing it against my body. I had almost lost concentration, but quickly called upon the lightning. It struck into the water, causing water to move in a circular motion. It turned with the speed of the wind and fire, swirling in midair.

“Persephone is opening the portal from the inside,” Tara said aloud. The sounds of thunder booming and the lightning flashing made it difficult to hear.

“When Hades comes out, we need to back off and give him room,” Mason directed. “This is not going to be a pleasant sight.”

“Just so long as he doesn’t bring his adorable puppies, I’m all good.” Nick raised the corners of his lips.

Mason shook his head. “I might get you one for Christmas.”

Nick did a double take and gave a huge grin. “Did you just crack a joke, stiff man?”

“Stiff man?” Mason muttered. “I guess I’m calling you puppy lover.”

“Look.” Amanda pointed, bringing everyone’s attention. “Looks like a body is coming out.”

“Looks like two.” Everett dragged his feet back, keeping his eyes on the portal. “They’re coming.”

Persephone came out first. Her dress and her hair tousled about by the strong wind. She was having a difficult time standing on the rocking water that was at her knee-level. As soon as Hades stepped out, the portal closed in an instant. As if nothing happened, the ocean and the sky went back to normal.

We all stared at Hades in awe while he dragged his feet through the sand and water. When he came to shore, he looked up to the sky, then dropped to his knees. I could have sworn I saw him kiss the water beneath him. He looked so happy and relieved, taking in the sun, taking in the water, but mostly, taking in his freedom.

Ostensibly overcome with joy, Hades playfully kicked the water with laughter and even splashed some on Persephone…until he dropped to his knees again. This time, it was involuntary. Hades curled into a ball, screaming in pain. It was the most agonizing sound I’d ever heard. When he raised his head, I could see his flesh peeling away, layer by layer. He was being ripped to shreds.

“The stones, Sky,” Persephone demanded in desperation.

“Here.” I handed them to her. Her words broke me out of my startled state. It was a horrifying sight. Even his clothes were flaking away. All Hades could do was cry in pain, digging his body into the sand for relief, if he could find any. I wanted to help him, but there was nothing I could do.

Persephone threw them in front of Hades. Just like before, the three stones magnetized together as one in midair. It spun around so fast that it looked like it was at a standstill. Colors of the rainbow exuded from it and it flowed into Hades. As if I had pressed a rewind button on my television screen, the layers of his skin went back to their original places, and piece by piece, he was put back together. When it was done, the stones fell to the ground. I picked them up and placed them back in my pocket.

On bended knees, Hades sat up and growled so loud that I had to cover my ears. I assumed it was his way of venting all the emotions that had been bottled up for all those years and from the pain he had just endured.

I jerked when he looked at me, then at everyone else. He was just as stunning and as masculine as I remembered him to be. Standing up, he trudged through water and twirled Persephone. “Thank you, my love.” He embraced her and then kissed her. After placing her down, he came to me.

“Thank you, Skylar,” Hades said, out of breath. “I know it was a difficult decision for you, but you’ve made the right choice. I will help you, but I will need your help to free my brothers.”

If there was any doubt, I knew now for sure; he had been honest with me all along. Now, I had to see if he would carry his words to action.

“Don’t make me regret it.” I wanted him to know that I didn’t completely trust him, even though my gut feeling told me that I could.

“First, tell me…who are all these people? And do I need to kill them?” Hades pierced his eyes on them with the look that could kill.

“No, no.” I extended my hand out. “You remember Tara. She’s one of the Oracles.”

Hades scowled at her, then relaxed his face. “Tara. We meet again.”

“Hades,” Tara greeted him with respect and backed away.

“This is Mason, Everett, Nick, and Amanda,” I continued with the introduction. “They are the descendants of gods. There are more, but you’ll meet them later.”

“I see.” Hades examined everyone. Since I didn’t know what he was thinking, I was a little jittery. “They followed you to kill me, didn’t they?” Hades tone was domineering.

My nerves shot with adrenalin, ready to take him down if he dared make a move. I could see light seeping through the spaces between Mason’s fists. He was definitely ready to take Hades on.

“They didn’t know your motives.” Persephone linked her arms through Hades’s, a sure way of calming him down. “They didn’t know that you have changed your ways. They were only trying to save their own kind, as you would have.”

Hades nodded. “Where do we go from here?”

“We go get Zara,” Tara said.

“But before we go, I think we need to stop by a clothing store and have you change,” I suggested, but it was polite way of commanding it. “Your white robe is beautiful, but you’ll look out of place.”

“You expect me to wear what you’re wearing?” Hades looked at all of us in disgust. “It looks hideous.”

I looked down at what I was wearing. My jeans were smudged with dirt and my lavender sweater was…well…very plain. “It’s not the attire I would wear to anywhere fancy, but it is our everyday normal attire. It’s simple, but this is our fashion. And you wouldn’t be wearing what I’m wearing. You’ll be wearing what he’s wearing.” I pointed to Mason.”

“What’s the difference?” Hades gawked at Mason, then at me. “The colors are different and that’s all. And I am a god. I am not wearing servant’s clothing.”

Hades was right. Mason and I both wore blue jeans, both our sweaters were plain as could be, though Mason’s was dark gray. But damn! Hades was still arrogant.

“My love. If you want to help, you need to blend in with the humans.” Persephone tried to persuade him.

“Gods only wear white robes with gold sashes. How will they know it’s me?”

Persephone put her arms about his shoulders, fixing her eyes to his, trying to put some common sense into him. “You are dead to the world and to the descendants right now. It doesn’t matter. Right now, you need to concentrate, not on yourself, but on helping Skylar kill Hephaestus and free your brothers. Who cares what you wear?”

Persephone’s tone and her words did the trick. Hades agreed with a nod, but I could tell he was not happy by the grunting noises that escaped his mouth.

“Follow me,” I said, thinking how much time we’d wasted. Just as I turned to the direction we were headed, wind blasted by us. A portal had opened.

I jumped in front of Hades because I had no idea what he would do. Having been alone for so long, he looked anxious and defensive. He flicked his hand and a cloud of smoke puffed out. He tried again…but nothing.

“What happened to me?” He looked at Tara with anger. “Did you do something to me?”

Tara backed away. “I didn’t do anything to you. Your body needs to adjust to the new environment.”

Hades looked like he wanted to say something, but he stopped when Tim and Noah came through the portal. Without a reason, Hades grabbed Tim and Noah by their necks and lifted them up with one hand each. “Where did you come from? Speak to me or I’ll cut your heads off.”

“Stop! Put them down,” I demanded. “They’re my friends. They’re descendants of Poseidon.”

“Put them down!” Amanda echoed my words desperately, standing near Noah. Hades released them. “No wonder they’re ugly.”

Tim scowled and cursed under his breath. “Who is he? Another one of your pets?” He directed that question to Tara.

“Pet?” Hades was huffing mad. “You dare call me a pet?” He towered over Tim and Noah.

I cleared my throat. “Noah, Tim. This is Hades.”

“Holy shit,” Tim murmured, sizing Hades up.

Noah lightly nudged Tim. “I told you we might run into them. Haven’t you been listening to anything I said?”

Tim didn’t reply. He was too busy gawking.

“No. It’s holy Hades. Watch your manners next time,” Hades hissed.

“Okay.” Noah arched his brows. “I’m here because Hephaestus has gone nuts. He’s burning Kayla’s town.”

“Kayla…Kayla?” Nick took a fistful of Noah’s shirt. “I told you to keep an eye on her. Didn’t you send your friends to watch after her?”

Noah pushed Nick off him. “Watch it. What is it with the descendants of Zeus? You’re arrogant and angry. Kayla is at school. She’s fine. I came back to let you know. We should help the people in her home though. Hephaestus probably won’t stop until he finds Kayla and her mom.”

I knew Nick would make sure he had Kayla covered, but it didn’t dawn on me that he might have forgotten about my aunt. Knowing Hephaestus was crazy, I should have thought about the possibility that he might go after every member of my family, not that I had many.

“We need to go help them,” I said in panic, thinking about my aunt, Mona, and Jack.

I turned back to Hades when he grabbed my arm just before I could take a step. When I gave him a dirty look, he let go.

“Wait. What about my brothers?” He seemed genuinely concerned.

“They can wait. Right now, this is urgent.”

“Wait,” Hades said to me. He started to caress Persephone’s cheek. “My love, go hide where no one can find you. This is too dangerous. Find me when this is all over.”

“Please be careful. I’ll be waiting.” Persephone stroked his cheek. “There are many changes to the human world. Don’t be frightened of them. Let Skylar lead you.” She gave him a kiss, then just like that, she was gone.

Teleporting was cool. I wished I could do that.

“What kind of abomination is this?” Hades circled Mason’s tinted BMW.

I had to laugh at the fact that many things would be new to him. Technology had advanced so much, just about everything would be new to him.

“It’s called a car,” Mason answered. “It takes you to places.” After unlocking it, he opened the door for me. Mason was always the gentleman, no matter how urgent our situation was.

“A car? It takes you to places? Why are there two? Why don’t you teleport?” Hades rambled with questions. “I guess you are not privileged to have such powers. The reason you are called a descendant and not a god.”

“You can walk if you like, or sit on top of the car if you don’t want to get in.” Nick snickered. “I’d like to see that.”

Amanda and Everett got in the other car with Noah and Tim. It was a good thing they had taken off first. Hades was slowing us down.

“Get in, please,” I said, in my sweet tone.

“I will not.” He crossed his arms.

It was funny to see this muscular man argue with me like a child. Hades might have changed his ways, but he was still arrogant and stubborn.

“If you can teleport from where you’re standing to the other side of the car, then you’ve won. You can just meet us there,” I challenged.

Hades raised his brows. With a smirk on his face, he positioned his body for takeoff. Unfortunately, the only thing that happened was that he ended up inside the car. He was still adjusting to the new environment. I knew this would happen, which was the reason why I had the door open. I knew he would slip right in and not through space.

Hades looked uncomfortable. There was barely enough room for him. Having his head touching the top and his legs tucked in, he looked annoyed. The doors slammed shut, and Mason pressed the gas pedal so fast, I swore it felt like we were going to teleport in the car.

“Hang on,” Mason said. “This is how we get around in the twenty first century.”

Fire and ashes painted the town with red and black, and smoke filled the air like fog, making it difficult to see. The cries for help echoing throughout the town made it difficult to locate where they were coming from.

After Mason parked the car, we called Everett on the phone, but there was no answer. Our goal was to get to Kelly’s diner and rescue my family first. They were probably already there, fighting the vultures.

“Stay behind me,” Mason directed, as we snuck across the street. “We’ll go in from the back.

Seeing the window shattered and fire blasting out of Kelly’s diner was not a good sign. Entering from the back, I waved the smoke out of the way. Being quiet was impossible with the smoke causing everyone to cough. Then I had an idea.

Wiggling my fingers, I used my power. Droplets of water trickled down like light rain, cooling the air and clearing up the smoke without producing too much sound.

“Good idea,” Mason whispered with a wink.

“It’s too quiet,” Zara said, breaking my trance from Mason’s smile.

“What’s that awful smell?” Hades sniffed, halting behind me.

“Either you’re smelling yourself,” Nick started to say, “Or it’s the vultures you created.” Nick’s angry pitch went up a notch through his gritted teeth.

Hades growled and fire glowed out of his eyes. He was about to take a swing at Nick when we heard a scream. I dashed through the door without thinking about the consequences and stopped after we passed the kitchen. My Aunt Kelly was holding a knife. Mona and Jack were standing next to her, each of them holding one too. Vultures surrounded them, and some were eating in the far corner.

“Skylar.” My aunt looked so happy to see me, then her smiled faded. “What are you doing here? Get out!”

I didn’t know what to do or say. I took a moment to gather my thoughts and my strategies, but hearing the vultures’ growls snapped me out of being frozen in place. A group of them were coming for us, snarling and hissing. I didn’t want my aunt to see what I could do, so I stayed behind Mason.

“What the hell are they?” My aunt cried hysterically.

“It’s okay, Auntie Kelly. My friends are here. They’re going to help.”

Hades stepped in front. “Medusa and I made one hell of a mess. And they’re hideous. Must be from Medusa’s genes. They certainly aren’t from mine.”

Hades powers were useless, so he used his physical strength. With both hands, he bashed their heads against each other to knock them out.

Nick got behind Auntie Kelly and gave her enough voltage to knock her out. Then he carried her away to the side for safety. When he tried to do that to Mona, she caught his arm. Holy cow! That was when I knew Mona was not fully human.

“Watch it, hot stuff. You’re not putting me to sleep unless you’re coming with me to bed.” She swung her knife like a badass woman just in time for the vulture that was about to jump on her. She penetrated the knife through its chest.

Nick was utterly in shock and didn’t see the vulture behind him.

“Get down!” Jack commanded to Nick, and cut across the vulture’s neck with one swipe.

Mason whipped out his bolts. Crack! Crack! He created sizzling whips and sliced the vultures’ bodies in half. Ashes floated around like black snow. It was a beautiful sight in contrast to the reason it was happening.

Standing at the end of the diner, Tara used her hand like a magic wand and crashed the vulture’s bodies against the wall when they approached her. Then I stepped in and sealed the deal with lots of my voltage and fire.

The fire had spread, and the heat and smoke were becoming unbearable. I called on Poseidon’s power and put out the flames with the help of Noah and Tim. By that time, all the vultures had been killed.

“Hades?” Mona looked shocked. “How did you get out?”

Hades eyes grew wide. “Cleo. Eros. How did you…you got new bodies? How?”

Cleo? Eros? I was completely speechless, as were Mason and Nick. Their eyes were just as wide as mine. They had eaten at the diner often. Mona had even lusted after them. Who knew?

“Hi, Skylar.” Mona shrugged her shoulders. “I’m Cleo, Athena’s minion, and Jack is Eros, Aphrodite’s minion, or nymphs…whatever you want to call us. When we found out what Hephaestus was up to, we were too late. We found everyone in iron casts, so in order to survive the destruction of gods and minions too, we jumped into the closest bodies. Unfortunately, this is it. Our bodies were destroyed the day all the gods were supposed to die. We call it Blood Moon Day. The prophecy foretold by the Oracles stated that it would happen as such: a series of four, consecutive, total lunar eclipses, with six full moons in between. That was the sign of the end of time.”

“If you think about it, what Hephaestus did was a blessing in disguise,” Eros explained. “If the gods were not in iron casts, they would have died on Blood Moon day; but instead, they were kept safe. It’s ironic. Hephaestus actually saved them.”

It was true, but what Hephaestus did was wrong.

“I’m going to kill him. He sent Skylar to kill me.” Hades’s hands puffed out smoke instead of fire. Feeling embarrassed, he dropped them to his side.

Mona and Jack gasped in accord. It was going to take some getting used to, calling them Eros and Cloe, and it was going to take longer to see them as minions, instead of humans.

“I knew you were special the day we met you. I hoped you would be the ‘keeper of life,’ Mona said, giving me a warm smile. She looked so proud.

“No, I told you she was special,” Jack spat at Mona. “You didn’t believe me.”

“No, I told you,” Mona retorted with her fist tight to his chin.

“No…I did.”

We all listened to them argue, our heads moving back and forth like we were watching a tennis match. It was no wonder they fought so much. According to Greek mythology, Aphrodite and Athena didn’t get along. I guessed it was the same with their minions.

“Silence!” Hades pulled them up by their shirts as effortlessly as if he was lifting feathers, then let go. “Where’s Hephaestus? Do you know where he is?”

Mona and Jack shook their heads vehemently. I was just about to ask Mason if Everett texted him back, but Mason answered my question before I could ask. Looking down to his phone he answered. “They’re about a block from here. They were helping put out a fire in a building. Many people were trapped inside, but they’re safe. They’re now on their way here.”

“Before we do anything, I need to take my aunt somewhere safe.” I bent down to make sure she was comfortable. “We also need to take Kayla to safety. Maybe Eros and Cloe can join them at New Olympus. Noah and Tim will have to escort them.”

“New Olympus?” Eros exclaimed. “I’ve heard about it, but I didn’t know it really existed.”

“That’s where they’ve been hiding and training,” Tara explained.

“It’s real and it’s magical,” I stated.

“Then, let’s get out of here,” Eros said with elation.

I looked up to see everyone’s eyes on me, except for Nick’s. He was already gone. I guessed that answered what would have been my next question…who was picking up Kayla?

While Nick went to get Kayla, we stayed behind to help the ones in need. Many vultures had died, but many also escaped. One thing for sure, this was Hephaestus’s madness, and more towns would be affected. We also stopped by a small abandoned clothing store and made Hades change into jeans and a white T-shirt, He ran the gold sash through the belt loops, so that at least he could keep the same color scheme of the gods. Before we headed to Olympus, we took a detour to the lake house. Zara was standing on the porch.

“Hades.” Her words came out in a whisper, but it was magical how it vibrated through my ears. I couldn’t tell if she was in awe or afraid from seeing him, but the way her words shot through me, I would bet on being afraid. When Hades approached her, she bowed and looked up.

“Zara. It’s been a very long time.”

“I’m glad you are well and you have found your peace. I see that you have changed your clothing to blend in with the humans. Clever idea. You look dashingly handsome.”

I had never seen Hades grin that wide. He loved Zara’s compliment. “Thank you. I will have peace after my brothers have been released.”

“How’s my dad?” I intervened when there was nothing but awkward silence.

“He’s much better. He’s waiting for you inside.”

“Thank you.” I opened the door to enter, but just before I did, Zara asked me a question.

“Where are Noah and Tim?”

“We’ve separated. They went back to New Olympus.” Not wanting to go into full detail, I figured I would share later. Satisfied with my answer, Zara turned away from me.

“Dad,” I called softly. Seeing him sitting on the sofa gave me great joy. “How are you feeling?” I wanted to jump in his arms, but I didn’t. It wasn’t the appropriate time.

“Much better. My body needed the shock to wear off from being molded into, and then released from the iron cast. It’s a lot for an old body to take. You brought a friend?”

“Dad. This is Hades.”

Dad’s eyes grew wide. He was speechless and possibly star struck, just like we all were. “Hades?” he repeated under his breath. “I didn’t know you were bringing him here. It’s a pleasure to meet you…I think.”

I had to laugh at Dad’s response. I guessed if I didn’t know better, and judging by his reputation, I would have been confused as to whether I should be happy to see Hades.

Hades nodded with a quick grin and tilted his head to the sound coming from the television. Staring at it, he slowly walked toward it and examined it. He extended his arm to touch it, but backed away instead with a jerk.

“The people are so little. How do they fit inside the box?” Hades got down on his knees to study the television. “Zeus, Poseidon, and I used to use small figurines at our meeting table when we discussed certain gods, but this is…fascinating.”

Hades finally found his courage to rub his hands on the screen. “Incredible.”

Before he could make a fool out of himself, and before one of us laughed any louder, I explained what the television was.

“See. I can use this remote and change the channels,” I demonstrated.

“These humans…they’ve learned magic. How?” Hades continued to stare at the screen.

“No, humans don’t have magic.” It took every ounce of my will to stop from busting up. Amanda released a funny sound, so she had to turn away. “Many things have changed since you’ve been…gone.” Trying to be sensitive to this topic and finding the right words were difficult.

“I see.” Hades stood up and glanced around. “And the furniture is very simple and distasteful.” He cringed his nose in a pompous way.

“Like I said…things have changed.”

Hades was used to the glamour of antique looking furniture, embellished with gold and precious stones. I could see why he would say that, but at the same time, I wouldn’t want my furniture to be what he preferred. I directed my attention to Dad.

“I don’t know where Hephaestus is hiding Mom.”

Dad was just about to say something when Mason brought up an idea. “There is one place we should try.”

“Where?”

“Your home.”

“What about my brothers?” Hades asked, staring at Everett, who was making a call to Nick.  “Why does he talk to that…that thing? Who is he talking too? Does it speak back to you?”

I didn’t have time for this. “I’ll explain in the car.” I smiled at my dad, whose eyes were sparkling with amusement while watching Hades’s curiosity in the material objects of our world. “I’ll be back.”

Dad tossed his blanket to the side and stood up. “I’m coming with you.”

“Dad!” I placed my hand out to stop him. “You can’t. You’re not well. You’ll delay me. I’ll worry about you.” I didn’t mean to belittle him, but it was the truth.

Dad stuck out his hand to balance himself, preventing him from falling. Realizing he couldn’t take another step without feeling lightheaded, he nodded in response and crashed down on the sofa.

“Go get your mother,” he said, letting out a heavy sigh.

“What about my brothers?” Hades asked again, stopping me from walking any further toward the door.

“First, we find my mom,” I heaved.

The look on Hades’s face told me my tone had shut him up.

The night sky was a black canvas, painted with pure evil and darkness. Usually, the stars or some parts of the universe graced us with beauty and sparkle, but not tonight. It didn’t help that I was in the worst mood, and it definitely didn’t help that I had no idea where my mom was or what kind of state she was in. And the fact that these vultures could be in my house just pissed me off.

The drive to my house wasn’t too bad, but it felt like eternity when my heart could not find a steady beat. It was pumping on overload with anxiety and anticipation. I started to relax when Mason held my hand in his, while he kept the other one on the steering wheel. Though his eyes were locked straight ahead, he didn’t need to look at me or say a word, because he knew how I was feeling. That was the way Mason was. And I loved how attentive he was.

“Did Nick get back to you?” I asked aloud, to anyone that would answer.

“Kayla is fine,” Everett said. He was seated behind Mason, so I had to twist my body to see him. “Nick took her to New Olympus. I’m not sure how he’s going to tell her about who we are.”

“My aunt is going to flip out, too,” I added.

“Are we almost there?” Hades hissed. “I’ve been locked up for centuries. I don’t need to be held prisoner in this…thing.”

“It’s called a car.” Amanda rolled her eyes. “I wish you had your powers back so you could kick Hephaestus’s ass. Anyway…I’m so tired and hungry.”

“Speaking of food, I am hungry. I order you to feed me.”

I snickered at Hades’s demand and I could see Mason’s lips twitch from the corner of my eye. Had I not known of his temperament I would have been offended, but as always, Amanda spoke her mind.

“Order me?” She laughed out loud, like it was the most ridiculous thing she’d ever heard. Holding up her fingers one by one, she said, “First of all, we are not your slaves. Second, do you see any food here? Third, we are in a war. We eat when we can. Got it?”

I couldn’t believe the way Amanda spoke to Hades, but it seemed to have worked. Since Hades was sitting behind me, I couldn’t see his face, but I got a glimpse from the side view mirror. Shrugging his shoulders sheepishly, he looked out the window.

I wasn’t sure if driving through the dead silent street was a good or bad sign. All the streetlights were off, and not even a hint of light glowed from the nearby houses. When Mason parked the car on the curb, none of us attempted to get out. We were glancing around, perhaps hoping to see signs of human life or some activities in the houses, but there was nothing.

“Doesn’t look like anyone is around,’ Amanda whispered. “Maybe we should go back to the lake house.”

“We should check it out.” Mason opened his door. “You can stay here, Amanda. It’s up to you.”

Hades was the next one out. “I’m not afraid of my nephew. He deserves what’s coming to him.”

“Shhh,” Mason scolded, when Hades slammed the door shut. Everyone else had shut their doors as quietly as possible, but he had announced our arrival when the sound vibrated in the air.

“The thing made the noise, not me,” Hades retorted. Then he kicked the door in frustration.

“Oh my God! He made a dent.” Amanda pointed.

Mason got to the other side of the car in world record speed for a descendant and slapped his hand down his face. “Just don’t touch my car,” he gritted through his teeth, looking irate. “In fact, just don’t touch anything and follow behind me.”

Hades pouted and raised his nose in the air. “I will not be insulted like that by a demigod.  Apologize.” Then he turned to Amanda. “It’s not ‘Oh my God.’ It’s ‘Oh my Hades.’”

“I’ll apologize for two things. One…sorry about my tone. Two….” Mason zapped Hades with his volts. “I’m sorry you had to get under my skin so I had to do that. And for the record, we might be just demigods, but we’ve survived all these years without the gods…and despite what you left to destroy us.” With that Mason held my hand and led the way.

Looking over my shoulder, I saw that it looked like Hades had gotten the message. He was rubbing the area where Mason had shocked him on his arm, and started following us.

It suddenly dawned on me that I hadn’t brought my house keys with me. In fact, I had nothing with me. There were times I had to remind myself that I was a descendant of gods and anything was possible. Mason touched where the key should have been inserted and sent a bolt of lightning. The door creaked open.

Mason turned to me as we entered. “It was already unlocked.”

Cautiously we moved through the darkness with Mason’s light. He lit up his hand like a flashlight, just enough for us to get around. We searched every room and I could tell they had been there, but we were too late.

My mom’s room was a mess. There were clothes on the floor, picture frames shattered, and a couple of suitcases open on her bed. The vultures, with clumsy hands, must have packed for her. Hephaestus was cold-hearted, but a part of him loved my mom. Perhaps he allowed her to wash up, change, and let her get a few things she needed.

“Oh, Mom….” I picked up a picture frame from the floor and dusted off the broken glass. It was a picture of my mom and me. “I promise. I’ll find you.” It wasn’t fair. She was just a pawn being used. When I was fighting the vultures, I didn’t have time to feel or to think sentimental thoughts, but at moments like this, when all was quiet and still, was when I broke down.

As tears blurred my face, all I could do was pray that Hephaestus had a soft spot for my mom and wouldn’t change her into one of his monsters.

“Sky.” Mason embraced me, and that brought me to another level of pain. I let myself go in Mason’s arms and the tears I tried to keep at bay would not stop.

“It’s okay,” he whispered as he continued to hold me. “We’re going to find your mom. We won’t ever stop until she’s home with you. She’s alive, and that’s half the battle.”

Getting lost in Mason caressing my back, I didn’t say a word. He could have told me my face was blue and I would have agreed. He had a way of making me crumble when he held me like that. It wasn’t that he was using his powers; it was just because he was my Mason. I was drowning in his scent, his love, and the comfort he was providing me. When I lifted my head off his shoulder, Mason wiped my tears.

“You look beautiful to me, even when you’re crying,” he grinned, caressing my cheeks.

I couldn’t believe his sweet words. Not having enough sleep and not showering for a couple of days, I was pretty sure I looked like a mess and smelled like sweat.

“Thanks, but you’re just saying that to make me feel better.”

“No, I’m not.” Mason’s eyes pierced through mine, hot and thick.

I couldn’t help the quiver jolting through me. It was the way he looked at me that made me nervous and excited. “Yes…I—”

Mason shut me up with his lips. His lips were soft, perfectly lining up with mine. The room spun when he kissed me deeper and his tongue…holy cow…let me know he wanted me. I closed my eyes and escaped into Mason’s world, but it was short lived.

“I need to stop, or I’m going to light up this whole house.” Mason pulled back, resting his hands on my shoulders. Looking dazed, he closed his eyes, then opened them to focus. “When this is over, I’m taking you away…alone.”

I beamed a smile, the kind of smile I only reserved for Mason, and that was my reply.

“Hello?” There was a small knock on the door.

“What do you want, Everett?” Mason asked. “You can come in. It’s dark in here. You can’t see Sky and me naked anyway.”

Everett either chuckled or almost choked on his saliva. “I actually came to see Skylar. I mean…not to see her naked…I mean, not that you don’t have clothes on…I mean….” Everett huffed with frustration. “We’re going to raid your fridge.” With that he left.

Mason and I laughed. It felt good to laugh and not worry about anything, even if it was just for a second.

“We should eat something too. Make sure to save me some lobster and steak.” Mason gestured with a flick of his head.

“We don’t have….” I stopped talking and curled my lips when I realized he was joking. “You’re not coming with me?” I pouted.

“I’m going to take a shower first, if you don’t mind me using your shower.”

“Of course I don’t mind. There should be towels in the bathroom cabinet. You can use my mom’s shower. It’s bigger than mine.”

“You better get going or else I might have to kidnap you to join me.” Mason’s words came out too hot, and I thought about actually getting in the shower with him…but of course, he was just flirting. We both knew it wasn’t the right time or place. But when Mason took of his sweater…damn. Temptation!

It didn’t matter how many times I’d seen him shirtless. It always felt like it was the first time. The six pack and the curve of his toned, hard biceps caused funny tingles through me. Hypnotized by his body, all I could do was stare, unable to look away or focus where I needed to be. My heart started to thump faster and my body wanted to gravitate toward his.

Mason unzipped his pants, then looked up at me, noticing I was still there. “Do you like what you see, Sky?” Mason’s tone came out low and too hot for me to handle. “Want to help me get undressed? If you don’t leave right now, I seriously won’t have the will power to keep from doing what I’ve been wanting to do to you.”

Warmth shot to my face. “I…I was just leaving.” What I really wanted to do was nod and help him with the rest, but I had to control my urge and focus on the reason why we were there. It was hard to look away, especially when he looked at me like he was going to come get me. With every ounce of my will power I closed the door. First thing I was going to do was gulp down some ice cold water.

I walked out of the hallway and all the lights were turned off, except for the one in the kitchen. They had helped themselves to whatever leftovers and frozen food there was. I didn’t mind it. We were beyond starving. We had been on the go with hardly any food and water, and it felt good to finally satisfy our needs.

I peeled a banana and took a bite. Knowing Mason would be out of the shower soon, I grabbed a plate. On the counter were plates of eggs, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, yogurt, blue berries, apples, and some left over drumsticks.

“Hades. Stop it.” Amanda slapped his hand.

“I’m still hungry.” Hades kept opening and closing the refrigerator door. “How do you tell it to make more food? Tell it to make some chicken and wine.”

Amanda ran her hand down her face. “It’s not magic. It’s a place to store your food so it won’t go bad.” She opened the freezer and took out a container. “I’ll heat up some frozen burritos for you. Now go sit and just don’t get up. You’re making a mess.” She guided him to the seat next to me.

Hades plopped down, looking at me. “Burritos? Never heard of it.”

“I want one too, Amada.” I giggled. There were going to be a lot of things Hades had no clue about. I had to laugh when the opportunity presented itself. There was hardly anything to laugh about these days. I had to take in the moment.

I closed my eyes and took in the soothing warmth from the hot water that ran down my body. It felt so good just to escape from this madness, even if it was for ten minutes, but it would have been better with Sky next to me. I had almost lost self-control when Sky was watching me undress. Though she would disagree with me, she looked beautiful, even covered with dirt and looking exhausted.

There were times when I had no clue what I was doing or how to help Sky, but somehow we’d made it this far. I was so thankful for that. The best way to cope with this craziness was not to think about it and hope I was making the right decisions as situations unfolded, because no matter what I did, I couldn’t prepare for the worst.

I knew Sky knew this. Although she hadn’t said a word to me, I knew she was afraid her mom might have turned into one of the vultures. And if that thought hadn’t crossed her mind before, it was there now, thanks to Mia, who’d pretended to be Sky’s mom in vulture form. I was so glad we got rid of her. I couldn’t stand her.

After I washed up, I got out of the shower and got dressed. Just before I stepped out of Sky’s mom’s room, I had a strange feeling in the pit of my stomach. When I thought I saw red, shiny lights through the window I rushed out the door, but when I checked it out, there was nothing there. Like I had thought before, you couldn’t prepare for the worst…but I wasn’t expecting this.

Hephaestus was standing with his back toward me. He had captured everyone’s attention and was talking away. Leaning my back against the wall and out of his view, I listened. If anything, he didn’t know I was there, and this was an advantage for me, just in case I needed to attack.

“What are we celebrating?” Hephaestus sounded so cheerful that it gave me goose bumps as I wondered what he had up his sleeve. “Surely, not my uncle’s return.”

“Hephaestus!” Hades roared. The forceful sound of his call shook the windows. I thought he was going to blow off the roof, the way it rumbled.

I didn’t blame Hades; I hated Hephaestus’s tone. It made me feel so small and helpless. Standing there, everyone looked shocked. When no one responded, Hephaestus continued.

“Hello, uncle. Glad to see you out of jail. It took a little girl to do it, but whatever works, right? Don’t tell me you weren’t expecting me. After all, this place was like home to me. What belongs to Gina belongs to me. Oh, I forgot to mention that Sky’s mom and I got married. I brought her back here to pack her bags; actually, my vultures did it for her. After all, she’s going to be their mom, just as I am their dad.”

“You’re crazy. Your marriage is fake. You can’t force someone to marry you. I don’t care what you say. This is my house too, and you’re not welcome.” I could see veins protruding from Sky’s neck. Her eyes glowed with silvery lights and her fingertips cracked and sizzled. “Where’s my mom?”

“Since your mom and I are officially married, that means this house belongs to me. I want you out of here. And the next time I come back, I don’t want you in this house, or I will be forced to destroy it.”

Hephaestus started to pace the length of the sofa. “You see, Skylar, I had this all planned out. I was going to make your mom the queen of my kingdom and make you the princess, but you had to ruin my plan. I don’t like it when people get in the way. And. You. Got. In. My. Way.” His words came out so evil, I could feel chills down my spine.

“Bring back my mom and I will let you live. This is your last chance,” Sky demanded, but I could tell her words had no effect on Hephaestus when he gave her an evil eye.

“You want to see your mother? This is my demand. Go get me the head of Medusa. I will gladly exchange your mother for her head. This is the only way you’ll ever see her again.”

“Medusa’s head? Medusa is dead, you moron,” Amanda said irately. “How the hell are we supposed to kill someone who’s already dead?”

“Her head is in the deepest part of the ocean. Only the ones with the purest hearts can reach it.”

“That’s certainly not you or Hades,” Amanda commented.

Hades arched his brows. “I’ve changed. I’m different.”

“Have you, uncle? Wasn’t this our plan? To confuse them so Skylar would get you out of jail so you could help me? We can stop the charade now. They’ve caught onto us.”

“Silence!” The whole house quaked this time. “He’s feeding you lies.”

“Am I, Uncle? I might have altered the plan, but whose idea was it to trick them to trust you?”

“Don’t listen to him.” Hades was beyond rage. I knew it was impossible, but I thought I saw smoke coming out of his ears.

“Oh…but they already have. I’ve fed them only the truth. By the way, here is another truth for you to think about. Sky is going to be a big sister soon. That’s right. Your mom is pregnant. She is so happy about this. You know she wanted more kids, but poor Victor left the family. Now your mom can make her dreams come true with me.”

I flinched when Hades stopped Sky from attacking Hephaestus. I was ready to jump in, but when she backed away, I did too. But I wasn’t prepared for Everett’s speedy hand. He threw the knife, aiming for Hephaestus’s chest. That’s when I charged with all my lights glowing out from my body. I was ready to damage Hephaestus. Though I couldn’t kill him, at least I could stop him from retaliating. That knife should have penetrated his chest, but instead it stabbed the wall right behind him. And my hands, which should have sent volts through his body, ended up almost hitting my friends.

Hephaestus wasn’t there. I was now standing where he had been standing. His image blended through my body. Only an oracle could do this for him. Immediately I stepped aside. Already feeling repulsed, I didn’t want his image reflecting on me.

His laughter rang in the room. “Surprise. I’m here, but not really. I’m not stupid to just show up when I know you’re hunting me.” He laughed again. “This is so much fun. It’s going to be much better when I have Medusa’s head in my possession. You have three days to bring it to me at Mt. Hem, or your mom will be turned into a vulture.”

“But you said she’s pregnant,” Amanda reminded, looking disgusted. “How could you do this to the mother of your child?”

“Turning her into a vulture won’t affect her pregnancy.”

“How do we get to the bottom of the ocean?” Sky asked, looking like the world around her was falling apart. She took a step in front of her, as if to stop from falling. Blinking, she grabbed her head. I debated whether to go to her, but waited to see if whatever was happening was a temporary thing.

“Ask Zara. She’ll know.”

Like a dying light bulb, his image flickered, then disappeared. Blood drained from Sky’s face. I got to her before she had a chance to drop to the floor. This was too much for her, too much for all of us. When would this end?

“We should get going, somewhere safe,” I said, carrying Sky in my arms. My poor Sky was knocked out.

“Where are we?” Sky groaned, glancing around.

“We’re at the lake house. You’re on my bed,” I answered, shifting my position so she could have room to take her hand out from underneath the blanket.

“What happened?”

I took her hand in my mine and gently caressed her thumb with mine. Though I knew she would be fine, I was worried. Sky had been through so many changes in her body that I didn’t know if she was going through more changes. “You passed out.”

“I did?” She rubbed her head and ran her hand down her face.

“Do you remember seeing Hephaestus?”

Sky took a moment of silence, looking off to the distance. “Yes. I remember everything. How’s my dad?”

“He’s better than he was this morning. Actually, he’s up and walking around. He came upstairs to check on you many times. I told him that I would let him know the minute you were awake, but I think I’d like to have you all to myself for a little while longer.” Letting go of her hand, I ran my hand through her hair.

“I don’t mind it at all.” She gave me her sweet, sexy smile. Then her lips faded into a thin line. “Mason?” Panic struck her face. I could hear it in her tone and her facial expression. “My mom. We have to go.” Sky sat up, but just as I was about to stop her, she buried her face into the palm of her hands.

“You need your rest, Sky. You’ve overworked your body.” I helped her lay down. Keeping her eyes closed, she nodded in understanding.

“But…we—”

“Don’t worry. We still have two days. You need to rest, and so does everyone else.”

“Okay.” Sky agreed and fell asleep.

“Skylar.”

“Mom?” Heading upstairs in a house that was not familiar, someplace I’d never been before, I knew I was dreaming. I could tell it wasn’t my reality when the only thing I could see was what was in front of me. Everything else from my peripheral vision was muted and blurred.

“Skylar,” I heard again, as I continued to go up the winding stairs that seemed endless. Every time I’d thought I had reached the end, more appeared in my path. Finally, I stood before a dimmed hallway, but I couldn’t recall how I’d gotten there. It was difficult to locate where my mom’s voice was coming from when I heard her call me again. It sounded like it was coming from the ceiling, but I knew that was impossible...wasn’t it? When I tilted my head up, it was dark and there was no end to it, like a black hole. As I turned the corner, all the doors were closed. I couldn’t count how many rooms there were; they seemed to be endless, as the hallway stretched as I walked.

“Mom? Where are you?” I called desperately, hoping she would be in one of the rooms.

“Skylar.” This time it sounded like an echo vibrating against one of the rooms.

I opened the door to my right hoping to see her, since it sounded like the voice was coming from there. But when I opened it, there was nothing but a dark space. I couldn’t even see any part of the room. The door slammed shut without warning. Startled, I backed away and continued down the hall.

“Mom,” I called. “Where are you?” Feeling cold under my feet, I looked down to see that I was barefoot. Where were my shoes? “Mom,” I called again, but only heard the sound of the wind blowing. How was that possible? We were indoors.

“Skylar.” This time the tone was sharp and angry.

“Mom?” A figure of a woman appeared at the end of the hall, and when she turned, I saw her face. Happy to see that it was my mom, I ran to her. “Mom. I’m here.”

I was only a few feet away from her when her face and body changed in a blink of an eye into something hideous. “Hephaestus,” I murmured under my breath.

“Come give Mama a hug.”

His words pierced my ears like the sound coming from a blow horn. I tried to run away, but my legs were planted to the ground. Using every ounce of energy I could muster wasn’t good enough. A strong wind came out of nowhere, making it impossible to move. He was coming for me.

Moving in a swimming motion I tried to push through air, but to no avail. I was short of breath and my muscles squeezed. I had no choice but to slow down—until I opened my eyes…only they weren’t fully opened. They felt so heavy that I couldn’t open them all the way. I wanted to know where I was. I wanted to know if I was still dreaming. I needed to see Mason.

It felt so strange to be running away from Hephaestus one second, then the next second to be somewhere else…more familiar. I was able to see everyone around me, but not clearly. Mason, my dad, and Zara and Tara surrounded me, looking worried. I knew I was lying on the bed, but why couldn’t I fully awaken? Unless…was I dead?

“What do we do?” I heard my dad asked. His words passed through my ears hazy and slow. It sounded like he was speaking in slow motion.

“We do nothing,” Zara replied. She placed her hand on my forehead. I guessed she was checking to see if I had a fever. Then, I felt a tug on my eyelids.

“Why are her eyes white like that?” Mason sounded concerned. He was standing next to my dad with his hands inside his pockets. I wondered if he was so upset that he was afraid his hands would light up, so he kept them hidden.

Zara turned away from me. “If what I suspect is happening is correct, someone is trying to communicate with her. We should leave. The fewer around, the better.”

Mason sat on the edge of the bed. “I’m not leaving. I’ll let you know when she awakens.”

Dad patted Mason’s back in approval. “We’ll wait downstairs.”

Within seconds, I felt like I was being pulled into another dimension. My stomach dropped and I felt the wind get knocked out of me. I stood on solid ground, but everything was white around me, as if I was in the middle of a mist and there was no way out. Then, as if it was sucked by a vacuum cleaner, the mist disappeared within seconds…all of it, leaving me in an empty white space. I thought perhaps this was what Heaven would be like during the judgment stage, where God would evaluate you. But when a figure stood before me from out of nowhere, I jumped back in fright. This was not God. At least I didn’t think he was.

“Hello, Skylar.” The stranger spoke to me. His kind voice led me to believe he wouldn’t harm me. “Do not be afraid. I come in peace. I’m Zeus’s messenger. My name is Hermes.”

I didn’t believe him at first, until I looked down to his shoes. Small white wings fluttered as if they wanted to take flight. As my eyes traveled up, I noted he was wearing traveling clothes and a cap on his head. The cap started twitching, then wings sprouted out from it. I took a moment to watch them stretch and slowly fan outward until I heard him clear his throat, bringing me back to him.

“Hi, Hermes,” was I all could say as I stared into his grey eyes.

Hermes shifted his cap, then tucked strands of his blond hair under it. “Don’t worry. I’ll bring you back to your world as soon as I explain why I’ve come. I’m sorry to have summoned you here, between your world and mine, but this was the only way. You see, as you already know, on the day of Blood Moon, we were supposed to have ceased to exist, but I was sending a message for Zeus. I was in flight, and because I travel fast, I was spared. I jump from one realm to another…the reason why I can get from one place to another as fast as I can. However, I’m stuck here, unable to return to your world until Zeus is saved.”

“Why have you come to me?” It was difficult to have eye contact. The wings on his shoulders, which were double the size on his cap, were beautiful and divine. They moved about in a hypnotic way.

“Actually, Zeus sent me to you.”

My eyes grew wide. “Me? How does he know me? We’ve never met before.”

The wings on his shoulders finally settled and lay flatly on his back. It was as if they never existed. “He doesn’t know you. That is not what I meant. But he knew someone like you would come along one day. And when that day came, I was to reason with you. I was to find you when Hades escaped. Though Zeus couldn’t tell the future, he had a hunch. Zara told him the possibility of what the future might hold, and so far, she seems to be right on target.”

“What do you want me to do?”

“I know Hephaestus wants Medusa’s head. It’s located in the deepest part of the ocean. But in order to get there, you must go through the Night Forest. Go the opposite way from Mt. Hem. It’s a long way, so you must bring camping gear. The Night Forest directs you to two places, so you can’t get lost. Once you find the head, you mustn’t give it to Hephaestus. Your world will be doomed if it’s in his possession. You can’t portal to the deepest part of the ocean, but you can portal out from there. Portal your way to Zeus when you get the head. Free Zeus, then he can help you defeat Hephaestus.”

I bit my tongue, wondering if I should tell him the main reason why I was doing this, but I guessed it was better to get everything out into the open. “Hephaestus has my mother. He’s going to turn her into one of the vultures. I have to bring it to him.”

Hermes had a peaceful look about him, but when his eyes were stern, combined with his serious tone, he frightened me. “You mustn’t. Your mother will be fine, but your world will not. I understand how important your mother is to you, but you must give up one for all. This is war, Skylar. You might not see it that way, being so young and only thinking about yourself, but you must think of humanity. Don’t be selfish.”

His words had me steaming. He had no idea what I had been through, or any idea about who I was. He had no right to judge me or tell me to stop being selfish. “Selfish,” I repeated, a bit louder than I had anticipated as I took a step toward him. Feeling heat tingle through my arm, I curled my fingers into a tight fist in order to stop the lights from glowing. If I let anger get the best of me, I’d either shock the hell out of him, burn him into ashes, or freeze him. Oh God! Sometimes I didn’t know which power was dominant. I didn’t know what I was thinking. It wasn’t as if he was going to take back his words.

“I’m sorry.” The wings on his cap started to flap. Perhaps to take flight…just in case. “I didn’t mean it that way. I wanted you to understand the urgency of this. Once you retrieve Medusa’s head, I’ll give you a fake one to hand over to Hephaestus. He won’t know the difference until he tries to draw power from it. When he realizes he has been tricked, I suggest you get the hell out of there. But if we free Zeus and Poseidon before we visit Hephaestus, you’ll have a greater chance at winning the battle.”

“You have a fake one?”

“Of course. Zeus planned out every detail with me. I’m his most trusted one. We
have a plan A, B, and C. We have covered all bases. When Hades was freed, the plan was set into motion.”

“Why Hades? Why not before?” I tried to think of an incident as an example, but I couldn’t.

“Because Zeus believed once Hades escaped, things would happen very quickly.”

“But Hades doesn’t have any power. He can’t even produce fire. He can’t even teleport.”

Hermes started pacing and when he did, all his wings started to flap. It was so cool to watch. At one point, he even levitated off the ground. “We thought of three scenarios. One—Hephaestus would find a way to kill Hades in the underworld. Two— Hades would escape and plan something with Hephaestus. Three—find a way to help Hades escape, then kill him when the time was right in your world. But you see, being that they’re both stubborn and selfish, we were certain they would try to find a way to kill each other. There is no room for two kings. You can’t have two rulers. It just doesn’t work.”

“Hades assured me that he wanted to help his brothers, and that he has changed his ways.”

Hermes’s brows narrowed at the center and looked at me as if I was crazy. “Hell will freeze over before that happens. Don’t believe everything he says. He’s cunning, evil, and again…need I remind you…selfish.”

“But Persephone said—”

“She’s blindly in love. Wouldn’t you say anything to defend Mason?”

I crossed my arms and leaned on one side of my hip in a challenging stance. This was different. Mason and I were not evil. “You know Mason?”

“I do. I might not be able to appear in your world, but I can still see everything.”

I was quiet for a second…thinking…hoping everything didn’t include me naked. As if he could read my thoughts he continued. “Don’t worry. It’s not that easy. I can’t just appear while you’re dressing or taking a shower…although…that would be pretty awesome.” Hermes’s smirk disappeared when he saw the evil eye I was giving him. “I meant…it’s hazy and unclear. I could put two and two together and get an idea…a picture. Though I mostly send messages for Zeus, I work for all gods, and I did once work for Hades many ages ago. When he came out from the underworld, my body was aware.  A part of me awakened. And when Poseidon and Zeus are awakened, I can come out of here.” He waved his hand back and forth in the air. “I can’t wait. It’s like being stuck in Purgatory.”

“What if I can’t find Medusa’s head?”

Hermes rubbed the side of his cheek and looked up for a second as if he was searching for words. Probably thinking of some wise words to tell me that wouldn’t sound like a bunch of bull. “I’m going to be honest with you. It’s not going to be easy. But look at you.” His eyes scanned up and down my body. “You’ve been in the underworld and came out alive. You can do anything. It should be a piece of cake. A walk in the park.”

“What do I do when I get to the deepest part of the ocean?”

“Someone will appear. Someone will guide you.”

“Who?”

Hermes didn’t answer me. He took off his cap, setting the curl of his hair free. “I need to let you go. It isn’t safe for you to be here this long.”

“Why?”

Hermes let the wings on his cap feather about on his finger as if it was a pet. “You’re full of questions.” His index finger lightly stroked my nose. “If I don’t let you go, you’ll be asleep for eternity. You’ll be stuck here with me. I don’t think Mason would like that. As much as I’m tempted to do so, I’m not that selfish.”

“Then, let me go.” Though I tried to remain calm, panic struck me. The thought of never seeing Mason did that to me. “But before you do, please answer me. Who will take me to the deepest part of the ocean? And where do I meet you to get the fake head?”

A tickling sensation flushed through my body. White mist appeared again like the last time, covering Hermes’s body except for his face.

“Hermes? Tell me,” I demanded. Feeling like I was drifting into space, I knew I was leaving.

Hermes winked and said, “All will be answered at the right time. Don’t fear, my friend. Have a little faith. Toss this stone in the water.”

I caught the stone just as he disappeared, and placed it in my pocket for safekeeping. What the hell did he mean by that?

The scent of Mason flooded through me, and I felt the gentle stroke from his hand on my face. As the feeling of security settled in me, I opened my eyes to the most welcoming, loving smile.

“Welcome back.” He planted a soft kiss on my lips and gazed intently into my eyes. “How are you feeling? Everything okay?”

“I’m fine now.” I smiled and sat up, recognizing the comfort of the lake house. I knew I was in Mason’s room by the type of furniture and the scent of pine.

“Either you were in a lot of pain, or you had one hot dream.” Mason raised his brows in a flirty way. “I hope that dream was about me.”

I giggled. “Of course it would be about you. But why would you ask that? Did I say anything?”

Mason rubbed my hand. “You made soft moaning sounds. I didn’t know the reasons…but you might say that I let my imagination run free. Like I said before, it sounded like you were in a lot of pain or you had one naughty dream. I prefer the latter. And to tell you the truth…you said a name.” Mason dipped his head and kissed the back of my hand. Something in the way he twitched his brows let me know that his ego had been hurt.

I quivered from that simple kiss. “It was Hermes,” I said, without thinking what I was saying.

“Hermes?” Mason arched his brows in confusion or disappointment. “I must be doing something wrong. I never knew you had a thing for him. You couldn’t have met him in person.”

I laughed, not sure if Mason was serious or joking. “No, Mason. I don’t have a thing for Hermes. He’s not bad looking, though. Anyway, he was the reason why I was asleep. He told me things. I think it’s better if I explain it to everyone.”

“Sure.” Mason cradled me into his arms and helped me to my feet. “Zara was right, the reason why I didn’t worry. She figured someone was visiting you.”

Purposely sliding my hand up his chest, I wrapped my arms around his neck for extra support. Hearing soft moans told me Mason was fighting what he wanted to do, especially when his eyes sparkled the way they did…soft, enticing, and exciting. His eyes glowed like that when he wanted me, and I wondered if my eyes were doing the same. In fact, I was sure of it when I felt the warmth travel through me, and saw those sexy lips curl up.

“There could never be anyone else besides you, Mason,” I said with a flirty tone. “You had me when you first shocked me at Kelly’s diner.” I laughed lightly.

Mason’s warm hand underneath my sweater made me gasp, shooting pleasant tingles through me. “I think…if I recall…I had you when I told you I was Officer Doug.”

Recalling how I’d practically drooled when we first met, I had to agree with him. “Maybe. You can pull me over anytime and give me any fake name. I will be your prisoner.”

“You know what?” Mason’s eyes became darker, greedier, trailing his hand through my hair with one hand while the other hand gripped tighter on my waist.

“What?” I suddenly became nervous when I felt his body touching mine. Not that this was a bad thing, but it was the feeling I didn’t want to let loose right now. Once it ignited, I knew it would take over.

“You had me at the first glance. From then on, you were all that I could see. You became my anchor when I was drowning. You gave me hope when I felt lost. You glued back all the pieces of my heart with your love—every single piece. And I don’t know what I did to deserve you.”

“Mason….” I started to say. Overwhelmed with his beautiful words, my eyes started to tear. I swallowed, trying to get rid of the lump in my throat. I didn’t want to get emotional in front of him, at least not with tears. “I don’t know what—” was all I got out. Mason’s lips had already conquered mine. I felt his fingers spread on my head, and then they tightened in my hair when his kisses got hungrier. It wasn’t painful, but I could feel the passion in his grip.

Pulling him even closer to me, I kissed him back with the same intensity. When I parted my lips, Mason’s tongue slid in. Fitting like perfect gloves, as always, his kiss was dreamy and it produced sensations that awakened every pleasurable fiber in me, especially when he gave me a dose of what I called his love shocks. By now, Mason would have usually pulled away; he had never let it get this far, but he continued. When his lips released my lips and glided to my neck, I panted short breaths and soft moans escaped my mouth.

“That’s the sound you were making,” Mason said, moving his lips back to my mouth. “And I imagined doing exactly what I’m doing now, but a lot more.”

“Mason,” I whimpered, feeling dizzy, drowning in his kisses. If he continued, I was going to rip his clothes off.

“Say my name again,” he demanded as his lips devoured mine. I gasped when his hand trailed upward, inflicting more of his light.

“Mason,” I moaned louder when he pressed his body on mine again. How did we get on the bed? I had no idea and I didn’t care. The feel of him and the searing heat between us created a lightning show in his room. Flashes of light zapped through us and between us. Hearing Mason’s low growls and groans only increased the excitement.

“Sky,” Mason managed to say, pulling his hands away. I knew he was trying to stop, but how could he stop something so intense…what seemed beyond the point of no return?

“Mason,” I panted, gripping him tighter to me. “You’re so bad. You can’t do this to me.”

Mason rolled over, his chest rising and falling just as fast as mine. Keeping a distance from me, he said, “Yes, I can.”

When I got off the bed, I saw what had happened to Mason’s sweater. It was a bit frightening and funny at the same time. Checking to see the damage Mason did to mine, I giggled. “Look at my sweater, Mason.”

Mason rolled off the bed, still looking dazed and overcome. As he raked his hair back, I watched his eyes grow with amusement. He gaped from my sweater to his. Then his lips slowly grew into that sexy smirk. “I’m real good.”

“Mason,” I growled through my teeth and socked him on his arm. “Your ego is too big for your head. Look at our sweaters. They have holes and rips. Oh…my…God!”

“I’m looking.” He wiggled his brows. “I like what I see.”

I crossed my arms in front of my chest. “You did this on purpose.”

“I have extra clothes. You have clothes here too, don’t you remember?” Mason was examining his sweater, sticking his hand through the long slit across his delicious chest. I needed to get a grip.

“That’s not the point.” I stood my ground, trying to look mad, but it was impossible when he gave me those pouty lips. It only made me have naughty thoughts.

Mason opened a drawer and pulled out two sweaters. He tossed my red sweater to me and began to change. Seeing him shirtless for even one second was torture, especially after having a taste of him.

“Problem solved.” He pulled down his sweater and winked at me.

“You did that on purpose. Admit it.” I turned my back on him and changed.

“You mean showing you my six pack?” he chuckled. “I can show you more if you’d like.”

“I’m talking about that kiss.” I opened the door and brushed my hand through my hair to make sure I looked presentable.

Mason draped his arms around my shoulders and kissed my forehead. “You’re right. I did it on purpose. I bet you’ll only say my name in your dreams from now on.”

“Cocky,” I said, as the door closed behind us.

“You can call me whatever you want, just as long as you dream of me and say only my name.”

After I explained about the visit from Hermes, everyone agreed that the decision would be left to me. I told everyone that I couldn’t make up my mind at that moment, and that I needed to weigh the odds. Before we set out for the deepest part of the ocean, I wanted to talk to my dad alone. Ever since we’d found how Hephaestus had interfered with our family, I hadn’t had the chance to talk to my dad about it. We needed to set things right.

“Dad,” I said, turning to him after everyone scattered away from the living room where we had gathered. Looking into his eyes, I was overwhelmed with all the emotions running through me. My heart was unsteady and my eyes pooled with unexpected, uncontrollable tears.

My dad fidgeted on the sofa. He would lift his hand, then placed it down. He looked like he wanted to touch me or hold me, but stopped himself. I knew the reason why. I had pushed him away every time he tried to show me a kind gesture or affection.

“Dad,” I whispered, and threw myself into his arms. Tears streamed down my face and I closed my eyes. “I’m so sorry…so sorry…so sorry.” The words repeated through my cries as I held him so tightly.

Feeling my dad’s hands caress my back and feeling his love through his hold not only made me cry harder, but a serene feeling flooded through me. It was a closure I’d needed from the unanswered questions. All those missing years were finally resolving, coming together…peeling away the misunderstandings…the grief…the anger…and finally, there would be peace.

The peace in my heart was overflowing. Now my tears were from joy and not from sadness. Holding my dad was a confirmation that he was there, and that he truly loved me. He didn’t try to kill me. He didn’t run out on us. Hephaestus had caused all the bad things and not my dad.

“Don’t be sorry, Sky.” He inhaled a deep breath. “It’s not your fault. I understood your reservations toward me. I really did. I hoped one day we would find the truth, and it brings me such joy to have all of the questions answered. My wish has come true. I love you, Sky. You and your mom are the reasons for my happiness. Even if you hated me, my love for you would have never changed. You’re everything to me.”

Dad’s words made me cry even more, and I knew he was shedding tears from the trembling of his voice.

I released my dad to wipe my eyes and sat at an angle to face him. “I can’t believe Hephaestus could do all those evil things.”

“You can’t understand because that is not how your mind works. Hephaestus is beyond crazy, beyond reparable. He has one thing on his mind, and that is to be the king of our world. As much as I want you to give Hephaestus Medusa’s head to save your mom, you have to know the consequences of that action. What will become of our world?”

“What about Mom?” I held in my anger and frustration. I didn’t mean to sound selfish. It was purely from being utterly angry with the situation.

Dad looked away, trying to mask his true feelings from me. I knew he was hurting that Mom was in the hands of the evil monster that had controlled our lives since the day he found me. “We have to have faith that everything will work out in the end.”

“I’ve been holding onto faith, Dad. It’s the only thing that helped me through all those years, with the help of Mason and his family. But we can’t lose Mom, especially when we’ve found you. We have to have our chance to be a family again.”

Dad gently lay his hand on my mine. “We’ll save your mom, Sky. Tell me…do you honestly think Hephaestus will let your mom go free if you give him Medusa’s head? Will he truly stick to his word?”

Feeling frustrated, I heaved a deep sigh and plopped back against the sofa, as if somehow I could disappear from reality, because Dad’s words gave me a lot to think over.

“Life was so much easier when you were a child, wasn’t it?” Dad continued.

“Yes,” I nodded to agree. “I worried about my grades and the social aspects of being a teenager, and also wondered where you were…a lot.”

I didn’t mean to make my dad feel bad about a situation he had no control over, but it was the truth. Telling him how I felt was one way to start healing from all the time lost.

Dad caged my hands in his, as if he was holding something precious, and looked into my eyes tenderly. “I wished I could have been there for you. Though it pained me greatly not to talk to you or hold you, I was there as much as I could be, from afar. You have to believe me, Sky. Your mom would have called the police had I shown up. I understood. She was trying to protect you. It was one of those situations that had no fix until answers were given. Now…we are free.”

“Yes, Dad. We are free. But Mom is….” I was desperately trying not to be pessimistic. We had come this far. There was still hope. After I quashed my doubts and worries, I raised my head with determination. Sulking to Dad wasn’t going to get my mom back. “It’s time. We need to get going.”

Dad seemed to be happy with my words. His lips curled into a smile, and his eyes sparkled with pride. “I’m coming with you.”

There were two sides of the Night Forest, just as Hermes had explained. One path led to Mt. Hem, and the other led to the deepest part of the ocean. Before we could get to the ocean, we had to survive our journey through the forest. I was dreading this part; however, in comparison, it was like day and night.

“At least it isn’t spooky like the last time.” Amanda shrugged, looking a bit relieved.

She was right. The branches slithered away with ease, making it less threatening when we entered. Our bodies were covered with warmth from the sun and the freezing wind had settled the second we set foot in the forest. Though the trees’ roots were tightly packed just like the other Night Forest, the soft brown color and the form of the branches made the forest seem less harmful. And the friendly creatures that scurried about, squirrels and rabbits, confirmed that it was definitely different from the Night Forest on the other side.

“This doesn’t seem like the Night Forest at all.” Nick glanced around as his eyes followed the birds that were flying from tree to tree. “It should be called Day Forest…get it?” He snorted.

Colin placed his sword in front, always on the guard. “No…not really. Stay alert. This could be a trap. It makes you think you’re safe, then swallows you up when least expected.”

“Well….” Nick stiffened. “That was one second of peace. It’s no wonder you walk like you have your sword up your ass.”

A bright light flashed, making me jump with alert. At first I thought lightning had struck, but when I realized it didn’t fall from the sky, I knew who had done it. Mason’s light wrapped around the sword Colin had swung and stopped it in midair, about half way. “I know you’re not going to hurt Nick, but nobody threatens my brother with a sword.”

The force of Colin pulling his sword away and Mason letting go of his light caused Colin to bang his head lightly against a tree. Rubbing his head, Collin cursed under his breath.

“Now that was funny,” Nick chuckled.

“Enough.” Zara stood her ground, glaring at us in a scolding way. “The forest may be friendly, but darkness is upon us. We must find shelter. I don’t know what creatures roam about here.”

Tara tapped her sister’s shoulder. “Zara, I don’t sense any danger here.”

Hearing Hades grumble under his breath, I knew he wanted to speak his mind, but surprisingly, he said nothing. I could tell he was still upset with the Oracles for helping Zeus and Poseidon trick him into the underworld. I didn’t blame him for his anger, but at the same time, he deserved it for being greedy. I wondered when his anger would explode. Well…his silence didn’t last long.

“You don’t sense a lot of things.” Fire blazed in Hades’s eyes and if he could, he would have breathed out fire through his mouth, judging by his tone. His voice rumbled the earth and pierced painfully through my ears. I could tell it had the same effect on the others when I saw their hands cover their ears. He scared the crap out of me when he did that. “You call yourself Oracle and yet you did not foresee the evil that has spilled upon our world. You should have taken Hephaestus to the underworld instead of me. He is the evil one…not me.”

“Hades, you’re right.” Zara dipped her head low, showing submission. Tara did the same beside her. “Tara and I will never be able to fix what has been done in the past, but we can work on the present and the future. That is all I can offer. I know it’s not enough, but know that I regret the suggestion that we gave to your brothers. I’ve said it before; we are not perfect. We merely guide and protect.”

Hades turned away from Zara and Tara without a word. He might not have forgiven them, but I could tell from his gestures that he had accepted their apologies.

After our tired feet trudged on the path for miles, we came to a halt when darkness took over the land. I could have sworn the branches moved, swaying inwardly, creating what seemed like a protective barrier. Was it my imagination? I couldn’t tell, but knew that there should have been wind when the branches moved the way they did, and there was only stillness.

“What are you searching for?” Mason asked, sliding his hand into mine. “Do you see something unfriendly?”

Not wanting to sound crazy, I ignored my observation. Too enthralled with the trees, it was then that I’d realized I had walked away from the group. “Just looking at all the stars. Look how beautiful they are. They’re so bright. There’re so many of them.”

Mason nodded to agree. “Come closer to the fire. You can keep warm there; unless you prefer that I keep you warm instead.”

His flirty tone got my attention. I was sure I gave him a dorky grin from seeing his sexy smirk. The way his lips curled in that perfect angle, the way his eyes glowed with heated expressions, and that tilt he did with his head had me spellbound and totally swooning. Oh Mason! He made my heart thunder louder than Hades’s rage.

“Hades finally got the fire started?” I let out a small laugh. After the branches were gathered, Hades had insisted he would be the one to start the fire. He almost lost it when Aaron tried to step in and help. Nobody was going to argue with him after that.  Thank goodness, it wasn’t that cold. At first, just like before, only smoke puffed out of his hand. I wished I could have seen the expression on his face when that happened.

Mason led the way to the camp with my hand in his. “He’s made some progress. His stubbornness is paying off in a good way. I hope he’s back to himself soon. His poutiness about not having his powers is driving us all crazy.”

I placed my head on Mason’s shoulder and let a soft laugh. I knew what he meant. The bon fire brightened up the surroundings, giving enough light. It was a pleasant sight to see everyone eating and talking in harmony. If only this was a happy occasion.

“Here.” Dad waved his hand. “I made two plates.” Dad scooted over to allow enough room for Mason and me to squeeze in. Though there was plenty of room, I purposely sat next to my dad to make him happy.

“Thank you, Victor.” Mason sat next to me and placed his paper plate on his lap.

Being served beans and bread reminded me of the first time I had camped with Mason and his family. We had eaten the same things. I would never complain about what we had to eat; we were lucky enough to feed our hunger. We hardly had time to eat anyway. We had been on the go for so long. I could use a good bath too.

“That’s a lucky coincidence,” Hades said, taking small bites of the bread. “What were you doing there?”

I had walked into the middle of a conversation, but I quickly knew what they were talking about when Noah spoke.

“To make a long story short, Tim and I grew up together. We lived in a small town in Maui. In our town, everyone knew each other by first names. The first time we knew we had powers was in biology class. We were working with test tubes, combining harmless chemicals together. At that time, I had no idea who Alena was. I also didn’t know she was testing me.”

“Alena was the girl that tried to kill Skylar,” Tim informed.

I nodded to agree and Noah continued. I had forgotten that half the people with us had no idea who she was. “Later, I found out she had brought her own chemicals and put them in our test tube. It started to boil, and bubbles formed out from it. I found out it was dangerous when Alena touched it and yelped from the pain. I tried to stop it, but it was growing fast, burning through the table. My panic set off whatever was hibernating inside me and somehow, I froze it. Everyone else thought Alena had used the fire extinguisher she held in her hand. I thought I was seeing things, was going crazy, until Alena confessed and showed me she could move fast.”

“I had no idea what had happened. We were busy with our own experiment,” Tim broke in, smiling. “Not until we went surfing that weekend. Our lives were changed forever.”

“Tim and I were pros on the surf boards. It was a thrill to surf during the night, especially since we felt like we owned the ocean. There was something about the water that gave us peace, like we belonged there. Late one Saturday night, when the night was still, we jumped into the ocean. The waves were perfect.” Noah’s eyes grew with excitement as he explained. I could tell how much he loved the water from his tone and his body gestures…the way he moved his hands, mimicking the waves, as if he was there.

“I thought Noah was going crazy when he started to panic, shouting at me to get out, right in the middle of the most perfect ride we’d had in a long time. Tell them what you saw.” Tim shivered.

Everyone was still as we waited for Noah to speak. Only a crackle from the woods could be heard.

“The waves formed into the shape of a hand. Tim couldn’t see it, but I did. The fingers curled, the palm pushed us forward, then finally…Bam!” Noah smacked his hand so hard, everyone jerked. I felt my heart leave my chest.

“Noah!” Amanda slapped his arm, and then rubbed it. “Sorry. You scared the shit out of everyone. Then what?”

“We were knocked out. Tim thought I had lost my balance and pushed him in with me. We struggled to land on the shore as we were tumbling through the waves, but after we got out, I realized it was trying to drown us. Tim still had no idea what was going on until he saw what I saw. When I pulled Tim up to get the hell out of there, long, slithering seaweed wrapped around our legs, dragging us back into the water.”

Tim shuffled closer to the fire, as if to tell a secret. His eyes glistened against the light with excitement. “The strangest thing happened next. We couldn’t fathom what had caused it, but there was no doubt we had done it. First, I felt warmth flashing through my body, then it suddenly became cold. I was thinking ‘if only we had something to slice through the seaweed’. Unfathomably, something flew out the tips of my fingers. I couldn’t believe it. I was scared beyond description.”

“I’ll describe it for you,” Nick urged. “I understand. You wanted to shit your pants.”

Everyone started laughing, then stopped when Amanda spoke. “Okay, enough. I want to hear what happened. What flew out of your fingertips?”

“Icicles shaped like spears, of course.” Noah extended his hands to show the length of it. “They were small, but deadly. They sliced across the seaweed like razors. We thought that was the end of it, but it wasn’t. The water formed into a translucent human shape. It even spoke to us. It said that Poseidon’s descendants must die. We were lucky that night. Zara was nearby. I assumed it sensed her presence so it escaped into the water.”

“And that is the truth,” Zara added, tossing small branches into the fire. “Actually, I was right behind them with the invisible cloak around me. They had been through enough and needed to digest what was happening to them. They weren’t ready for me to appear before them.”

Noah raked his dirty blond hair back, looking slightly flustered. “I’m glad you didn’t. It would have been more than we could have handled. After that, Tim and I searched for others like us. About a month later, we were a group of ten. A year later, we were a group of fifty. Then a couple of years later, we found other descendants and Victor.”

Dad wrinkled his nose. “Noah and Tim saved me.”

“Victor was at the same beach where we were attacked,” Noah said.

“The same beach that attacked Sky when she was eight,” my dad added.

“What’s the name of the beach? I’m never swimming there if I ever visit Maui,” Amanda cringed.

Zara stood up. “It doesn’t matter where you are. The monsters Hades and Medusa created will find you. We only have a few hours to rest. We need to be there before the break of dawn. Rest up. Tara, Hades, and I will be on the lookout. Everyone grab a flashlight and stay alert.”

Mason stood up and gave me his hand to help me up. “Come with me. I found a perfect spot for us.”

I didn’t know why, but I looked at my dad. Out of respect, I was seeking his approval, though if he’d told me not to go, I still would have. Since Dad smiled at us, I was able to go freely without any reservation.

Mason led me away from the group and took me to a tree. The ginormous roots were sprouted out, intertwining with each other, and dipping low in the center. In a shape of a bird’s nest, it was a perfect place to rest, hidden away from everyone. Mason helped me step into it and held me in his arms when we lay down. His body glowed just enough to give us light. Though the ground was hard and uncomfortable, being with Mason was all that mattered.

“Do you hear it?” I asked, snuggling closer to his chest and placing my head between his neck and shoulder.

“It’s the sound of the night…so peaceful. Makes you believe everything is fine with the world.” Mason took the words out of my mouth.

“There it goes again…the owls.” I tried to pinpoint where the sound was coming from. If it were nearby, I would have searched for it. But now it was impossible when multiple hooting noises came from all around us, as if they were communicating.

“Pretty cool, isn’t it? The way they talk to one another.”

“I wonder when they hear us talk, if it sounds like gibberish to them?”

Mason’s body shook against mine when he laughed. “Maybe. Want to see something spectacular? Look up.”

So I did and…wow! The way the tall trees enclosed us created a tunnel vision. All I could see were countless stars, like diamonds in the sky. There were so many that I felt overwhelmed, yet mesmerized by them, unable to look away. I reached out my hand as if I could touch them. Then something slid down my finger.

“Skylar Grand, will you marry me?”

I flashed my eyes to Mason, who was kneeling before me. Standing up, I glanced from Mason to my hand in shock.

“Mason?” I gasped, trying to hold it together.

“I’m going to get you a ring when we get home. I…made this. It’s made out of …twigs.” Mason shrugged, seemingly nervous. “It’s not the way I had planned to propose to you, and I know it’s probably early for me to ask, but you’re it, Sky. I don’t want to wait any longer. There’s no one else I could possibly want to have forever with. And it’s not the most appropriate time, but I need you to know that you’re everything to me. I don’t know what will happen today or tomorrow with danger trailing behind us. All I know is that I want to hold onto our future. The future we will have when this is over. It’s the only thing that makes sense in this crazy world. I want to have a normal life with you.”

Dropping down next to Mason, I was on my knees. Caressing his cheek, I looked deeply into his eyes. There were no words to express how I felt or what he meant to me, because he was my universe, and there was nothing I wouldn’t do for him. It didn’t matter to me that he had proposed to me in the Night Forest, one of the most feared places. All that mattered was that Mason wanted us and the forever package that wasn’t guaranteed, but was the only thing that we could hold onto to give light to all this evil around us.

Was Mason sensing the same danger I was? Was my Mason, who was always cool and collected, and made me believe everything was going to turn out fine, having doubts? And was fear the reason why he needed to propose to me now? Whatever the reason, it didn’t matter. He could propose to me in the dumpster and I would have said yes.

“Sky?” Mason’s cheek leaned into my hand that was still caressing him. “It’s okay if you want to think about this. You don’t have to give me an answer now.”

“No.”

Mason blinked in disappointment. His green eyes lost the spark that was glistening a second ago.

“I meant…” I continued, “I don’t want to wait. Yes!” I exclaimed. “Mason. I want to marry you. Of course I do. I’m so—”

Mason took my lips and gave me a long but soft kiss. The kind of kiss that made me want more, the kind of kiss that shut me up and left me feeling like the earth was spinning.

“For a minute there, I thought you were going to turn me down.”

Running my hands slowly down his chest, I said sensually, “Who could resist these rock hard pecs?”

“Anything else?” Mason’s brows twitched in the way that sent quivers though me.

I ran my hands down, close to the zipper of his pants. I was certain I felt his body shake slightly and I heard him inhale sharply. “Who could resist these strong legs?”

“My legs?” Mason’s chest vibrated against my hand.

“Who could resist this hair?” I gripped it tightly and yanked it lightly. Hearing Mason growl sent excitement through me. “Who could resist those luscious sweet lips?” Without a word, I placed my mouth on his and kissed him madly, like I hadn’t seen him in weeks. The same way he had kissed me many times before, but this time, I was in control. His hands roamed over me everywhere, even to places he wouldn’t dare touch me before. Holy cow! He made me forget where we were.

“Sky,” he whispered, breaking away from my lips to my neck. “We need to stop. You’re glowing.”

“Okay,” I murmured, but it was impossible when Mason’s lips were on mine again.

“Who’s lighting up, Sky or Mason?” I cringed from embarrassment when I heard Nick’s loud voice and his chuckles. “If you get any brighter, I’ll know what you’re doing.” I heard his voice again, making me flush with warmth.

“Shut up,” Mason hollered. “I’m keeping Sky warm. Turn the other way.” Mason turned back to me. “I didn’t lie. I’m going to keep you warm, any way you like.” The way he spoke made me shiver. It was way too hot for me to handle.

Mason didn’t light up the way he did before. He was learning to control his excitement, especially when we were intimate. I was the one that couldn’t hold it together. Soft moans escaped my mouth when I felt Mason’s lips on mine again, then again when his hands grabbed my hips. I didn’t realize we were still on our knees until he lifted me up and anchored my legs around his waist. He placed me down gingerly, lost in our little hideout, and pressed his body into mine.

“Light up for me, Sky. No one can see you now.”

Oh my God! I knew nothing would happen tonight, but my imagination ran wild from the things he could do to me with his tongue and his light.

“Giving you a love shock, baby.” His words came out slow and hot, as he was nipping against my ear. “Glow for me, Echo.”

And so I did.

Short, tiny shocks woke me up.

“Mason?” I mumbled, rubbing my eyes. I could hardly open them from being over tired. It was still dark, and I wondered what time it was. Knowing that my dad or Zara would wake us up, I dozed off, but was awakened again, hearing Mason grumbling in his sleep, calling my name. In his dream, it seemed as though he was searching for me. I could sense that it wasn’t a pleasant dream and more of a nightmare.

“Skylar.” I felt the same shock that woke me the first time, and saw a figure hovering over me. I was just about to scream, when a hand covered my mouth.

“It’s me, Nick,” he whispered, smiling mischievously.

I knew that smile. He was up to no good. After Nick told me who he was, he glowed just enough for me to see him clearly. “It’s time to go.”

“Okay.” I nodded. “I’ll wake up Mason.”

Nick went around the dip. “No. Let me.”

I should have listened to my gut. Mason sprung up fast, as if his ass was on fire. His body lit up so brightly that I had to close my eyes.

“What the hell, Nick?” Mason panted. “You’re so lucky I didn’t accidently shock you. I thought you were one of them.”

“Sorry. I couldn’t help myself. I assumed Skylar made you glow a few hours ago. I wanted to see how much I could make you glow.” Nick chuckled. “What do you mean by ‘one of them’?”

Mason raked his hair back and looked at me with a short grin. “Never mind. It was just a dream.”

“Must have been some dream.” Nick looked sympathetic. “Anyway, everyone is ready. I told Victor that I would wake both of you up. It’s time to go. They’re waiting by the tree.”

Mason tilted his head in confusion. “There’s nothing but trees here. What tree?”

Nick slowly lifted his lips. “Just checking to see if you were listening.” He started walking. “That tree.”

Mason grabbed my hand to follow Nick. “What tree?”

We passed the campfire. It looked like spirits were floating out from the dead fire.

“The black one,” Nick said, pointing aimlessly about.

“They’re all brown, Nick.” Mason sounded agitated.

After a few yards, we came to a halt in front of our group. Smack in the middle, surrounded by brown trees, was a black one. “See? I told you.”

That shut Mason up.

“Now what?” I asked.

“We go through it,” Zara answered.

We’d passed through portals, but never a tree before. What in the world was she talking about? Before I could ask her, Zara placed her hand on the trunk of the tree. To my surprise, I could only see half of her, then she disappeared. Apparently it didn’t matter how many hands touched the tree. Most of our friends went through at the same time. Mason and I passed through it together, placing us right on a beach we’d never been to before.

As soon as we appeared on this beach, I wondered how we would get back. Thankfully far back, away from the water, I saw the same black tree surrounded by brown trees. At least it was refreshing to know we had a way to get back.

“Sky, throw the stone Hermes gave you,” Zara requested urgently. “It’s time. Dawn is about to break.”

Though it looked like an ordinary beach, it wasn’t. No tide rolled in, because there was no shore. I stepped forward and tossed the stone. The stone never dropped. A hand broke out of the water and caught it in midair. Knowing it was one of the sirens’ hands, my heart returned to to a steady beat, but at the same time I was excited to see one…or two…or three. Two more hands appeared. They finally showed themselves, down to their waist. I didn’t know if it was my imagination, but a soft, peaceful melody rang in my ears.

“Cover your ears, men. Don’t let them sing to you. Harden your heart. You must feel nothing,” Hades alerted, covering his eyes with his arm.

Before anything could happen I decided to speak, but just before I had a chance, one of the sirens sang. “Who granted you the stone that calls upon us? What is your business?”

“Lady of the ocean, I’ve come for your assistance.” I tried to sound brave. “Hermes has granted me the stone. I need your help.” They didn’t look harmful; in fact, they were beautiful, with their long, shining hair seductively covering their fronts. But the tales of their deceitfulness alerted me to be on guard. I didn’t know if their luring voices had the same effect on women.

“Speak, child. We are listening.”

“We need to travel to the deepest part of the ocean and bring back Medusa’s head.”

“Poseidon placed Medusa’s head there so that it would never be found. You do not have Poseidon’s permission. You will never get his permission. He’s gone.” The same siren sang. She seemed to be the leader of the three. Hearing her sing her words instead of speaking took some adjusting to.

The wind picked up. I was sure the siren had a hand in this. She didn’t trust me; this seemed to be a warning. I needed to convince her that I was no threat before it got worse.

“I wouldn’t need to retrieve Medusa’s head if Poseidon didn’t need my help. He’s not dead. They are being held captive in an iron cast in Mt. Olympus. You must believe me. It’s the only reason Hermes showed himself to me. It’s the one reason why I was given the stone.”

I didn’t realize what had smacked against the water until the sirens had done it a second time. It was surreal to see their tails, giving me a moment of awe. This was no fairytale from my younger days. It was freakin’ real…freakin’ cool.

“Prove to me that you are the chosen one. Then I will take you there.”

With a heavy sigh, I raised my hands to the sky and called upon the lightning, nearly striking them. Lowering my hand, I created a small tidal wave around them. Then finally, I blasted fire around the tidal wave. When I thought they had seen enough, I placed my hands down.

“Good. At least I know you have a chance down there.”

Great! What did she mean by that? I didn’t think it was going to be a walk in the park, but I didn’t want to go through what we had in the underworld.

“Come,” the siren said, gesturing with her hand. “Only those that can stay underwater may come. The rest of you have to stay behind.”

“We all need to go.” Zara’s tone was stern. “You must find a way to take us all.”

The siren slowly tilted her head toward Zara. The look in her eyes, the “how dare you speak to me in that tone,” sent chills through me. I had no idea of the powers they possessed, and I never wanted to find out, unless it was to our advantage. If they were strong enough to bring down a ship without ever placing a hand on it, well…that spoke volumes.

“I know a way,” Noah said, uncovering his ears. “We’ve done it before with Victor.”

My dad’s eyes grew wider, seemingly recalling what Noah was referring to. “Yes, yes, yes. We can do that.”

“Let’s not waste time. Do something about it,” Hades snapped.

“Wait.” Zara turned to Tara. “I will go with them; however, I need you to go to New Olympus and make sure everyone is safe. I’m getting strange vibes.”

“Me, too,” Tara agreed. With a nod, she touched the black tree to head home.

Noah grabbed my hand, making Mason’s face turn sour. “Tim, grab ahold of Skylar’s other hand.” Tim squeezed my hand and said, “Skylar, help me create a frozen bubble around us. Everyone, huddle together and get ready for the ride of your life.”

I wanted to yelp from jerking so hard as the bubble we created plunged into the water, but Amanda’s scream was loud enough for all of us. The sirens placed their hands on the bubble and guided us…down…down we sank. The ride was smooth but fast, making my stomach squeeze against my lungs. The deeper we went, the cooler and heavier the air inside became.

Various colors and sizes of fish swam around us, along with sea creatures I’d never seen before, which was the coolest sight to see. Seeing magical creatures indicated that we were getting close.

“There it is,” Everett pointed.

“Finally. I don’t know how long I could handle being down here. I feel like I’m suffocating.” Hades looked extremely uncomfortable.

When we reached our destination, it felt like we entered a portal. As soon as the bubble touched the entrance of the cave, it popped and we landed on sand. I could see the sirens on the other side of some invisible screen. Though it felt cold, I could breathe freely, with no threat of being drowned.

“Be careful,” the siren warned, fanning her tail. “Do not take anything back with you. Only the one with the purest heart can take Medusa’s head.”

“How do we get back?” I heard Nick ask.

“As soon as you touch Medusa’s head, it will take you back to where you were meant to go. Good luck.” With that, she swam away, along with the other two sirens.

“Ugh. I hate it when they talk in riddles.” Nick frowned. “Where you were meant to go, my ass,” he grumbled under his breath. “What the hell did she mean by that? It better not take us to Mt. Hem.”

Mason lightly nudged Nick to snap out of it, heading forward with his hand in mine. “Stop whining like a baby. Let’s go.”

Hearing Nick’s words told me he was getting tired. A grumpy side I’d never seen before was replacing his friendly, humorous personality.

“Whatever.” Nick matched Mason’s steps, walking beside us. “I better not see any three headed dogs.”

“Puppies,” Mason said. “You said they were puppies.”

Dewy mist flooded the walls of the cave, making the air humid. I could feel wetness on my face, while my sweater felt slightly damp to touch. We trudged on the sandy ground, making our steps soft and quiet.

I had expected it to be pitch dark, especially since we were in the deepest part of the ocean, but every few feet, a lit torch brightened the path. We cautiously walked as a close group to the unknown, allowing the path to lead us, and breathing in the cool, crisp air. Oddly, it was refreshing.

“This is too easy.” Nick looked from left to right. “Something is about to happen. It’s never this easy. Poseidon wouldn’t make it that accessible.”

“Shhh….” Amanda gave him the evil eye. “I hear something.”

“You hear water hitting the bottom, against the rocks,” Nick answered.

“No, it’s something else. Amanda is right.” Noah put out his hand. Tiny water bubbles floated around it, forming into knife sized icicles.

“Stay alert,” my dad warned.

Then it began. Air brushed against my skin first, growing stronger with each step. It shouted danger, lifting the sand and small pebbles.

“Hold on.” Mason held on tightly to my hand.

The sand in the air started to twirl like a mini hurricane, becoming larger with every second that passed. It expanded so quickly that we didn’t have a chance to get away. The wind flew in every direction, slapping my body. We were now at the center of it, and were unexpectedly lifted off the ground. Luckily, we were ascending instead of tumbling in the air.

“This is how Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz must have felt,” Nick joked, covering his face to keep from getting blasted by the sand. “Skylar, tap your feet three times, maybe you can take us out of here.”

“Nick!” Amanda scolded. “Shut up. Stop cracking jokes. Look up.”

“Holy crap! What do we do?” Noah panicked, looking at Zara for direction.

A gigantic hand that was formed from the sand was heading down for us. It looked like a fly swatter, and we were the flies.

“I don’t want to be squashed,” Amanda whimpered, covering her eyes.

“How do we get down?” Everett shouted, spitting sand out of his mouth. “Crap. It flew into my mouth.”

Mason and Nick flashed their lights, but it only went through it. Even fire from Colin did no good. It flared up, but then more sand took its place. It was a no win situation. The only thing that we could do was dodge it and try to find a way out, but when it grabbed a hold of Zara and swallowed her up, we freaked out even more. We dodged more hands that formed while we tried to save her, but we had to be careful not to hurt her…that was the tricky part. We stopped when the closed hand started to shake.

The hand vibrated so fast that the sand around it was peeling away, darting out like bullets. Then light appeared, growing like the sunrise.

“Everyone cover yourselves!” My dad warned.

Like a bomb, the hand blew up, and out came Zara, unharmed. The impact knocked us off balance, making us tumble, flip, and somersault, until we could settle ourselves again, but we were still in midair. Mason’s hand in mine broke the force of the pull.

Zara might have gotten rid of that hand, but that was just the beginning of our problems. The hands changed into faces...not any face, but Poseidon’s face.

“Who dares to enter?” All mouths of the six heads spoke. It was so loud that just the sound of their voices was ear piercingly painful.

“We do,” Zara spoke. “I’m Zara, one of the Oracles. The descendants of the gods need your help. We need the head of Medusa to save the gods.”

“Liar!” The heads were mad. Their anger was projected through the sand that sputtered out at us. “There is one among you that does not belong here.” The six heads spoke in union, making their voices loud. “One of you is not a descendant.”

We were quiet at first until Hades spoke up. “It is I, Hades, the god of the underworld.”

“Hades is locked away. Do not test my patience.”

“I’ve been set free. You know it’s me. You just said one of us is not a descendant.”

“Prove it. Show me your flame. Hade’s flame would be darker and more powerful than the descendants.”

Hades shook his head and looked down in shame. “I need time to regain my strength. I can only puff out smoke.”

“Prove it!” the faces demanded in anger.

Before anyone could speak, not only did the wind pick up speed, we were being sucked in, apparently towards their mouths.

“We need to think like Poseidon. What will stop the wind?” Noah asked.

Tim raised his hand, taking the water from the soft narrow stream along the side of the cave. “Poseidon didn’t create this stream for nothing.”

Understanding what Tim was doing, I did the same. Manipulating the water, like the outer layer of skin, water hugged the hurricane and masked the shape of it, but it had no effect on it. Instead, water darted on us the way the sand was.

“Hades! Do something,” Nick cried out frantically, zapping his light directly in the mouth he was being pulled into. “Show your smoke; show anything to prove you’re Hades.”

Hades raised his hand. How desperately I wanted him to have his power back. I wished so hard that my head hurt and my heart drummed as I watched only smoke puff out of his hand…then nothing. At last, beyond hope and power, we got sucked into the mouths.

Darkness covered me. I was sliding down an endless tunnel that seemed to stretch forever. My stomach dropped, and every muscle went limp when I plummeted out of whatever was guiding me. No control…out of control. Then suddenly, my fall became slower…much slower. Zara stood before me with a smile and her arms up to control my landing.

“Sky.” Mason came to me. He cupped my face, looking lovingly into my eyes. I knew that look. He was worried about me.

Strangely, Mason was becoming taller…no…I was shrinking, I thought. OMG! I was standing on an enormous hill of gold coins and countless jewels. Necklaces, bracelets, and rings of pearls, rubies, sapphires, diamonds, and all the various colors of gemstones were scattered about. Talk about temptation! I wanted to take one of each home. Too bad it was forbidden.

Smack in the center was a pillar. On the pillar was the reason why we’d gone there.

“You’re lucky you were the last one and Zara was there for you,” Amanda said, rubbing her hip. “I was one of the first to land on this massive pile of hard stuff. But man oh man…I wish we could take some home with us. They’re so beautiful.”

“One day, I will buy one for you. Whatever your heart desires,” Noah swooned, looking into Amanda’s eyes.

“Don’t even pick up a single gold coin,” my dad warned, struggling to get closer to me. With each step taken, his leg plunged into the coins. It was like walking through quick sand.

“I wasn’t going to pick it up, Victor,” Noah barked, heading for the pillar.

“I’m only looking after your well-being. Just reminding you. Seeing how rich we could get, it’s very tempting.”

“Now what?” Nick pursed his lips, examining the head. “It’s…dead.”

Zara circled around the pillar, looked closely at it, and then stood in front of it. “I assure you, it’s not dead. It looks like a statue, but once it’s picked up, it will come alive. You must not look directly in her eyes. With just one look, you will become the gray stone she is now. Medusa will call your name in your mind. She will toy with you…manipulate you…make you feel sorry for her. Does everyone understand? No matter how tempting she may sound, you must not give in.”

“Who’s going to be the one to pick it up?” Tim asked, shifting, trying to maintain his standing.

“The one with the purest heart,” she answered, turning her head to me.

All that time, I’d thought it would be Zara. I assumed the Oracles were the ones with the purest hearts. How could it be me? Feeling the weight of everyone’s stare I spoke.

“I don’t think it’s me.”

Zara approached me and held my face in her hands, a slight twinkle in her violet eyes. “Yes you are, Skylar. You are the special one, the one with the purest heart.”

“But it’s impossible.” I took a step back and shook my head, forcing her to drop her hands. I couldn’t believe what she was saying. “I’m not any better than anyone else in here. I’ve had impure thoughts. I’ve wished ill upon others. I….”

I stopped speaking when I didn’t know how to explain it any more. I was lacking words because at that moment, I knew she was right. Of course it had to be me. It was always me. It wasn’t about having a pure heart in that way I was thinking, because no matter what, we were part human…and humans were created to make mistakes in every form. But it was what you did to correct it so that it wouldn’t happen again that made your heart pure. So why was I the one with the purest heart? I had the power of the three gods. I couldn’t get purer than that.

Mason inclined his head with a grin, telling me to make my move. Thinking of my mom, I had to do this. I only hoped that I didn’t fail and that Medusa’s head would easily be taken off the pillar.

“How do I do this? And what do I do after I get a hold of it?” I asked. I didn’t want to accidently turn everyone to stone.

Zara reached inside of her cape and pulled out a black fabric bag. “Since I’ve never done this before, I thought we’d take a precaution and put it inside this bag, away from everyone’s eyes. Before you pick her up, keep in mind where you want to go. It will portal us there. That is the gift from Poseidon, though he’s not really here. He planned it well. He knew we wouldn’t come for it unless it was a dire need. But he also didn’t want to make it easy for just any descendants to take it. And the fact that Hades couldn’t shoot out flames was a good thing. It was a test. A test Hades passed that led us on the right path.”

“I don’t get it,” Amanda asked. “Why was it a good thing Hades couldn’t shoot out flame?”

“Because Poseidon would know that if Hades was released, he wouldn’t have his powers back right away. In fact, Hades won’t get his powers until Zeus or Poseidon offers them back to him.”

“What?” Hades’s eyes fired up. “You told me I would get them back in time. You led me on.” The gold coins shifted and moved, sliding in the opposite direction of Hades’s steps. He was going for Zara.

I jumped in front of Zara, though I was pretty sure she could handle Hades, especially since he had no powers. “Stop, Hades. You’ll get them back after we save your brothers. You said you want their forgiveness; hurting Zara won’t mend the problem or bring them back. We are wasting time. Resolve your anger. You need to learn how to control it.”

I knew Hades understood and would not harm Zara when the fire in his eyes dissipated. With a heavy sigh, he relaxed his strained muscles and stepped aside.

“Hurry, Sky.” Mason pointed, reminding me we were running out of time.

After I nodded to confirm, I slowly extended my arm and prayed that this went smoothly. My imagination ran wild and I thought of all sorts of scenarios in which this could go wrong…like the snakes coming alive and me getting bit by one of them, or Medusa’s eyes opening and turning everyone into stone, or the ground shaking and causing an avalanche of more gold coins or sand raining down on us. This all made me hesitant because we didn’t know what the outcome would be.

I didn’t realize I was holding my breath until I felt the need to release it after the head was off the pillar. I was pretty sure everyone was doing the same as their eyes set heavily on it. Zara handed me the bag and stepped away, as if what I was holding was some kind of disease she didn’t want to catch. I didn’t blame her. I sighed with relief that there was no unexpected surprise, but I sighed too soon.

Medusa’s eyes popped open, scaring the life out of me. I knew this not because I looked directly into her eyes, but because her eyes shined like high beams on a car that had just turned on in the dark. When everyone screamed and ducked, I lost my grip and dropped it. “Shit!” Squinting, I scooped up the head, trying not to get any coin pieces along with it.

“I’ll hold it for you.” Dad took it from me. I was glad he did. It was heavy and it wasn’t something I wanted to have in my possession, though I knew Mason would have held it for me. He placed his arms down when my dad reached out his hand.

“Skylar, the pillar is sinking. Place your hand on her head.” Zara broke me out of my stare at Mason’s grin. “Direct the entity where you want us to go. Hurry before it sends us elsewhere. Are you taking it to Hephaestus or to Zeus? It’s your call.”

Ever since Hephaestus had taken my mom, there was no doubt what my goal was. The drive that kept me going was my mom, to bring her back home. Now it all seemed unclear. If I gave Medusa’s head to Hephaestus, he would surely take over the world. How selfish would that have be for me? I was torn. My heart was broken as images of my mom being scared out of her mind in the hands of the evil monster flashed through me.

Mason slipped his hand in mind, providing comfort. He knew the burden that was buried deep in me. He was letting me know that whatever I decided, he would support it. Actually at that point, I had no choice. It was the right thing to do.

Dad opened the bag just enough, allowing my hand to reach in. Feeling the cold hard stone, I willed it to our destination just before the pillar disappeared into the hill of coins. What happened next was not what I had anticipated. The ground started to shake and rumble.

“Not again,” Amanda groaned.

“Brace the fall, but do not fight it,” Zara directed.

I couldn’t fight it if I tried. There was nowhere to go and nothing to hold on to. We could do nothing as the pillar sunk even deeper to the unknown, along with the coins and jewels. I just hoped it took us to our destination and not to another challenge we would have to endure. I let it take me, following its will. My eyes were sunken, my body wary, my will spent. I’d had enough.

Nick stood up, dusting off his pants. “I hope we never have to do that again.”

“That was…awesome. What a rush,” Noah said in exhilaration, glancing around. “Where are we?”

Without even examining the surroundings, I knew where we were. It was where I’d told it to send us. “Olympus,” I said, mesmerized by the beauty of the place.

“Wow.” Tim’s whisper floated with the butterflies that passed him by. “I know you’ve been here before, but this is our first time.”

“Hopefully not your last.” Nick ruffled Tim’s hair. “Don’t get left behind.”

As Zara led the way, I cautiously kept my eye on a particular tree nearby. That tree was the home of Cara, the third Oracle who wanted me dead, and the one who’d worked with Alena. The last time I had seen her she escaped, never to be found. We didn’t search hard for her. It was difficult to look for someone who could make herself disappear right before our eyes.

Being in Olympus, everything was vibrant. The colors of the flowers seemed richer, and the grass below was the prettiest green I’d ever seen. Spreading across the sky, the clouds were thick, yet looked soft as cotton, and allowed the sun to peek through. There was no spring, summer, fall, or winter. It was just perfect. What I loved the most was the butterflies dancing happily against the soft breeze, without a care in the world. That was how I felt in Mt. Olympus…until I saw the statues of the gods. Then every inch of my body became rigid.

“Unbelievable,” Noah sighed, passing one statue after another.

Everyone’s eyes were glued to the statues that were lined up in a row. They were quiet at first, taking it all in. Even the Grand brothers and Amanda, who had been there before, had their eyes focused on the statues.

“What a sight.” Dad raised his hand to touch Poseidon, but changed his mind.

“Home. I’m finally home.” Hades dropped to his knees in front of Zeus as his eyes glistened with tears.

At that moment, I knew Hades was being truthful all along. In a way, I felt sorry for him. There were always two sides of the story. What had happened a long time ago between the brothers would remain a mystery. But any doubt of Hades being on Hephaestus’s side vanished with the wind that started to pick up. The sudden change in the air startled me. The leaves on the ground shot like cannons, and the air about us shouted in anger. It became so strong that it was intolerable. Then one person came to mind.

“What’s going on?” Mason panicked, holding tightly to my hand.

“It’s my sister,” Zara said, frowning. “Cara! Show yourself. I know this is your doing.”

“Do something,” Hades ordered, holding onto the statue of Zeus as the wind continued to blow.

“Cara. We’ve come in peace. Show yourself.” Zara looked like a butterfly about to take flight from the cape blowing beside her.

“Who dares enter the house of gods? You have no permission to be here. Go back where you came from.”

“It’s me, Zara.”

“Zara? It can’t be.”

“It is I, sister. Come out and see for yourself.”

“I don’t believe you.”

“Come out, Cara.”

“Prove yourself. Tell me something only my sister would know,” she demanded as the wind softened.

“There are three of us. Tara is the second sister. We were happy once. Then something bad happened, and you sided with the wrong side. You lost your way, but you can find your way back home. We all make mistakes. We are not perfect. But it’s what you do to better yourself that counts. The gods are merciful. You will be forgiven…you only need to ask. I miss my sister. It’s been too long.”

“I thought you were dead,” she whimpered. Then there was silence in the air.

“Tara is well, too. She misses you. We need to be a family again. Help me.”

“There is no peace for you or me.” Her tone changed to somber. “We are doomed. Hephaestus has created an army of vultures. We will be out numbered. There is no hope for us or humanity.”

“You’re wrong. Hades is here. And the one who will release the gods is here. All three gods will unite. We have hope again. We will have order. We will restore our home.”

A shadow appeared from behind a tree, changing shape into a figure. Zara’s gasp sounded loud, especially since the winds had calmed. Cara looked older and more wretched then the last time I’d seen her. She had aged, with more wrinkles on her face, and by her appearance—looking thin and frail—she seemed weaker.

“Zara, is that really you?” Cara cried. Her body lightly shook as her eyes pooled with tears. Her hands covered her face when she dropped to the ground after turning to Hades. “Hades.” Her words were hardily audible, but they were filled with remorse.

Her sobs made me feel sorry for, and my anger toward her subsided somewhat. I didn’t know her. I didn’t know what she had endured to become what she was now, and for that reason I didn’t want to judge her. The truth was, Hephaestus was our real enemy, the one that would not change his ways. But Cara, on the other hand, was just a pawn, driven by her greed, flawed by the fact that none of us were perfect. Just like Hades, she now had the opportunity to be forgiven, to change her ways, and become the great Oracle she once was.

I’d thought that Zara would be angry at her sister and have her locked up, so I was surprised to see that I’d been wrong about her intentions. Being an only child, I didn’t know what it was like to have that kind of connection, but I could assume it would be something like how I felt for Kayla. No matter how mad I was with her, no matter how many times we might argue, our love was strong enough to forgive and forget. Thinking of Kayla, I couldn’t help wondering how she was doing.

Zara stood beside Cara and placed her hand on her head. “Stand up, Cara. Rise and help me help Skylar free Zeus and Poseidon. We do not have much time.”

Cara stood slowly, using her cane to help her up. Then she looked at me, but not in the disgusted way she had done before. She retreated several steps, looking confused. “You have brought the ‘keeper of death.’ She will destroy us, not help us.”

From the corner of my eye I could see Mason’s hand shooting small sparks, getting ready to protect me just in case Cara decided to make a move on me.

“No. You were misinformed. Skylar is the ‘keeper of life.’ She will awaken Zeus and Poseidon. She has already freed her father and many others. Let’s not waste time. You’ll have to trust me, and I’ll explain the details later.” Zara turned to me. “Quickly. Do the exact same thing you did for your dad. Cara and I will help you. We’ll project our powers at the same time. This way, you won’t have to use too much of your energy. Waking up a god will drain you. It’s different than how it was with your dad.”

Zara turned to the others. “Step back. I don’t know what will happen.”

Taking a deep breath, I placed my hand on Zeus’s chest and let go. Having Cara and Zara’s hands on mine gave me courage and strength, and the will that I could do this. I had done it before, but could I awaken the gods as Zara proclaimed I could? We were about to find out.

Water flowed out of my fingertips…spreading, covering every inch of Zeus’s body. Fire came next, slowly melting the iron. Then light sizzled from my fingertips, expanding in the way water did. Even with the Oracles’ energy, it didn’t seem enough.

“We need more power, Skylar,” Zara said weakly. “I don’t have any more to spare.”

There was only one thing I could think of to do, but it would require more strength than I could possible endure. I had no choice. I had to command it.

Lightning struck from the sky through my body to Zeus. As did the water and fire, it projected to Poseidon. Their bodies were more than halfway revealed, but I could feel myself weakening. I didn’t know how much longer I could hold on. Just when I thought I was spent, the iron cast was melted and I was thrown back a few feet. Lucky for me, Mason was fast enough to catch my fall.

“I’ve got you. You okay, Sky?” Mason stroked my cheeks. My shoe had touched ground, and the upper part of my body was in his hold.

“I’m just tired,” I grumbled. “Are they out?

“Yes. You did it. I’m so proud of you.” Mason kissed my forehead and helped me to stand.

Poseidon and Zeus were on the ground. A light blanket that Zara brought with her covered their bodies to keep them warm. Everyone stared in awe, waiting. How long would it take for them to recover? Zara had told me that the gods would bounce back quickly, but she didn’t know the time frame. As I held my breath, I watched their bodies tremble under the blanket and recalled my dad doing the same thing. I prayed they would be on their feet soon. I didn’t mean to be insensitive, but time wasn’t on our side.

After what seemed like an eternity, Zeus dropped his blanket. Although I had drenched him, his clothes were perfectly dry. Looking dazed and confused, he used his staff to help him stand up, and glanced around at each and every one of us. The silence said it all. We were god struck. With his muscular, broad shoulders and godly build, his presence demanded attention. A head taller than Mason, with perfect porcelain skin and a good-looking face, he was a majestic sight. Silly of me, but I had imagined Zeus with long white hair and a white beard, but that wasn’t the case. His dark brown hair looked silky…it actually looked softer than mine.

“Zara?” he asked, as his dull blue eyes started to become brighter.

“Zeus.” Zara lowered her head.

Zeus raked his fingers through his thick, dark hair. “What happened?”

Before Zara had a chance to explain, Zeus turned and noticed Hades and Cara helping Poseidon to stand. His eyes grew wider, his body stiffened, and the tightness in his chiseled jaw told me he was not happy.

“What’s going on? Who released Hades? I demand to know.” Zeus’s words boomed loudly. His tone alone commanded authority.

After Poseidon was on his feet, Zara introduced us to Zeus and explained all that had happened. Hades and Cara had dropped to the ground in front of Zeus and Poseidon. The two gods standing side-by-side were overwhelming. Poseidon’s physique and stance were just as stunning and powerful-looking as Zeus’s. Each had on a long, white cloth decorated with gold trimmings, which clung to their chests. I could see the ripples of their muscular arms under their cloaks, which flowed like Superman’s cape.

“My brothers,” Hades sighed. “We have a chance to mend our hurt, to forgive, and to start over again. I beg you to accept my apologies. I know what I have done wrong, and I have learned a new way. I am not the same god that I was before. Let’s take back what is ours, renew our home, and let the world know the gods are back. Together we are strong. Together we will bring back our people. And together we will bring Hephaestus down.”

“I’ve always known there was good in you,” Poseidon said, peering down to Hades with a look of compassion. “You were too stubborn to see what was tearing us apart, your greed and selfishness. I do believe you are regretful; I can see it in your eyes.”

With a gentle smile, Hades peered up to Zeus. “Can you forgive me as Poseidon has?”

Zeus’s lack of words was killing my patience. Hades would be back in the underworld if Zeus would not forgive his brother. As much as I didn’t like Hades before, I’d grown to trust and respect him. And I, for one, did not wish for him to return to that hellhole he had been stuck in for centuries.

“I will release you. You will be pardoned; however, if there is ever any doubt, you will be sent back. I do wish, my brother, that we can be a family again. I will not lie. I have missed you. I was sorrowful from your absence, but you have to know, I did it for the good of our people. Do not make me regret this decision. Now…rise.”

If I wasn’t mistaken, I was pretty sure I had witnessed Hades drop a few tears. Standing up with a warm, genuine smile on his face, he received hugs from his brothers. It was a heartfelt, touching moment. Afterward, Zeus turned to me.

“Skylar, I want to thank you for releasing Poseidon and me. That was honorable and brave of you. For that reason, I will not charge you with treason against the gods for releasing Hades without my permission.”

I could have explained my reasons, or even told him off for his insensitive comment. But I had to keep in mind that Zara had already explained the situation, and no matter what I said, being a god, he would only look at it from one angle…the angle he wanted to see it from. He was still locked up in his olden ways. The laws were straightforward. And I could now understand what Hades meant when he said Zeus was too stubborn.

“Thank you,” I said, and squeezed Mason’s hand tightly. It was a gesture to tell him to keep his mouth closed. Mason was about to tell Zeus off. I knew this because I felt his energy pulsing against my hand.

“Zeus,” Zara called softly. “How about my sister, Cara? She is still on the ground, waiting for you to speak to her.”

I’d wondered why she hadn’t spoken up, but then I recalled that no one was to speak to the gods unless spoken to first.

Zeus looked down. “Speak up, Cara.”

“Please forgive me. Just like Hades, I too was overpowered by greed and selfishness. I miss my sisters. I miss what we had once. Please, Zeus, let me come home. I have changed. I will prove to you that I am good.”

“Just like Hades, I will give you this one last chance. After you have proven yourself worthy, I will change you back to yourself. But for now, your appearance will remain.”

“Thank you, Zeus. I will prove worthy,” she said, planting a kiss on the back of his and Poseidon’s hands, then backing away.

“Hurry, we must go,” my dad reminded.

“What about the others?” Hades asked. “Are you not to free everyone?”

Zeus stopped following my dad, then turned to Hades. “Not yet. We need to ensure it is safe to release them. Hephaestus might have another plan we’re not aware of. However…if we are going to war…Skylar, I need to ask you a favor.”

“Yes?” I said, tilting my head up to meet his radiating blue eyes. They were a lot brighter than when he first opened them. Looking into his eyes was like looking up at the bright sky. Still awestruck, my body had turned to Jell-O standing in front of him.

“I need your help releasing Ares and Athena. I’m not strong enough to do it myself, but when I’m back in full force I can release everyone else. Will you help me?”

This was going to be beyond awesome. I could hardly hold my excitement in. To be surrounded by the gods…not one, or two, but five…was thrilling. “Yes. I will help you.”

“This way,” Cara directed, hobbling. “Create the portal here to direct us to where we must go.” She pointed between two adjacent trees with her cane.

I thought it was my imagination when light flashed before my eyes and the wind slapped against me. Then one lightning bolt cracked down to the ground, revealing a kneeling body.

“Hermes,” Zeus cheered happily. “It’s good to see you.”

“Zeus, Poseidon, Hades, Ares, and Athena, I’m honored to see you again.”

“Stand up. Let me see you,” Zeus said.

Hermes stood up, smiling and looking content. The wings all over him were fluttering, I assumed mimicking the way he felt, overwhelmed with excitement to see the gods.

“You look well. It’s good to know you have not been affected by the Blood Moon Day,” Zeus continued. “You’ve done well. I see you found a way to bring a message to Sky. Do you have any messages for me?”

Hermes lost the grin. “I do. Hephaestus and his army are in New Olympus.”

“Where is New Olympus?” Zeus asked.

Zara didn’t waste any time; she raised her arm. “We had to build a new home. You’ll see soon enough.”

We were about to take a step to go through when Tara appeared. “Zara. Hurry. We are being attacked. The vultures have breached the shield.”

“We’re on our way.” Zara opened the portal.

“What are vultures?” Zeus asked.

“I’ll explain when we get there. Hurry. Everyone pass through.”

Every time we passed through the portal, the breeze was strong, brushing my hair away from my face. My muscles became rigid, and the air was sucked from my lungs. I hated the feeling, like my body was being dropped from a roller coaster.

We landed on the sand, and what I saw in front of me was a jaw-dropping moment. Black ashes from the vultures and wounded bodies spread across the beach. Most of them were vultures that had turned back to human. The portals never stayed open, but this one did.

“Hephaestus has turned humans into vultures,” my dad informed Zeus.

“I cannot believe how far he’s gone.” Zeus shook his head, looking disgusted.

Zara bent down, checking a wounded girl’s pulse. When she opened her eyes, Zara asked, “What happened?”

“Hephaestus broke through the barrier. There were too many of them. We couldn’t hold them back. Many are still in New Olympus.” The girl coughed, then closed her eyes.

I knew life had left her when her face turned pale and blood seeped down the corner of her lips. She looked cold and greyish, like a statue. Riding with the soft breeze, her body turned to ashes and floated with the wind.

“Let’s go.” Mason grabbed my hand and broke me away. “They need our help.”

“Hold on a minute.” Ares placed his shield out to stop us from going any further. “We need a plan. Athena will help us. Gather around.”

Athena came up with plans A and B. I just hoped either one of them would play in our favor.

What we saw after going through the portal was no different. Bodies and ashes were everywhere. Grief struck me hard, as my hand clutched tightly into a fist. I was sickened by what Hephaestus had done. If I felt like this, I could only image how my dad and Zara felt. This was their home. These were their people.

“To the castle,” my dad hollered, running toward it.

As soon as the vultures saw us, some of them came charging toward us. Using our powers and Amanda and Everett using their swords, we fought back.

“Where are Kayla and her mom?” Nick asked Tara, sizzling a vulture in front of him.

“Don’t worry. They’re inside the castle basement. They’re safe. The children and the ones that were able to escape when the vultures attacked have retreated there,” Tara explained, raising her hand to toss a vulture against a tree.

Before Tara could finish, Nick had fought his way to the door. He needed to check on Kayla, and I was glad he was going to do so. I needed to know too. As much as I wanted to see her, it had to wait until this was over because we were running out of time.

It was cool to watch Zeus twirl his staff to knock the vultures down like a ninja and shoot lightning bolts out from his staff. Poseidon motioned his hand in circles and shot out sharp, solid icicles. They fired out faster than a machine gun from his hands. Noah and Tim were awestruck as they fought beside him.

Seeing fire blast from the corner of my eye, I turned to see Hades. I could tell by the intensity of the flames that he was not up to his full capacity, but it was enough to turn the vultures into ashes. It was nice to see him really smile for the first time since I had released him. For reasons unknown, I favored Hades. Maybe it was the change in him, that he had the courage to be better. Or perhaps it was the bad-boy charisma that reminded me of Mason. Or the fact that I had spent some time with him in the underworld and understood him better.

“Up there.” Ares pointed. “They’re climbing the tower wall.”

“I’m going after them,” I shouted, and took off as others followed.

We ran toward the back and encountered more of our friends. Just as many vultures were there as there were in front, if not more, which was probably the reason we kept seeing more of them when I thought we were at the end of the battle.

Ares ducked and swung his shield to decapitate several of the vultures. Sometimes he bent low and knocked them down, and finished them off with his sword. Athena was just as skilled and graceful. Like a pro gymnast, she flipped over a vulture to confuse it and stabbed it with the sword from behind.

Lightning, fire, sharp objects turned from water, and even arrows were shot to the vultures climbing the tower, while we fought with the ones below. Knowing we needed to get to Hephaestus, I was just about to do something drastic when I saw Mason in action. Gracefully, he bounced on top of a vulture’s head, then jumped to the one on a higher level and shot the one below. He repeated this all the way to the top, and Nick—who had just come back from checking on Kayla—followed Mason, fighting in the same way.

“Move out of the way,” Mason hollered, and blasted his light. Nick did the same beside him. It traveled downward, expanding like a waterfall. The whole tower illuminated and sparks shot out, especially when it touched the vultures. Black ashes fell like rain as the vultures met their doom.

“They’re from my line of the family,” Zeus commented proudly, knocking out the two vultures that came at him. “Do you not know who I am, idiots?” He stepped on top of one and shot out lightning from his staff. The light rippled, hitting not just the one in front of him, but the others behind him and so on.

With the help of Zeus, Poseidon, Hades, Ares, and Athena, most of the vultures were dead, except for the few lingering ones trying to escape.

“Where’s Hephaestus?” Zara asked Tara.

“He was here when he opened the portal, but I don’t know where he is now.” Tara blinked her eyes, finally realizing that Cara was by her sister’s side. “Cara?”

Cara dipped her head low, hiding her face. “Yes, it’s me. The gods and Zara have forgiven me; can you?”

Tara reached down and stroked Cara’s long white hair. “I always have forgiven you. We just needed for you to come home.”

Tears formed in Cara’s eyes, and also in mine. Just like with Hades, my heart had softened for Cara. “I want to be home with my sisters.” Cara sobbed in Tara’s arms.

“There, there. Everything will be just fine.” Tara tried to comfort Cara.

“Mason. Nick,” Zeus called, breaking my gaze. When they stood before Zeus, Zeus looked upon them with pride. “I am amazed by your courage and your strength.”

“We are not the only ones,” Mason said. “Everyone you see has fought many battles. They are also brave and courageous.”

Zeus looked upon everyone. “We shall have a feast in honor of all the descendants. Now…where do we find my son, the one that betrayed me?”

“Hephaestus told me to meet him at my house,” I answered. “But I don’t think he’s there. I’m sure he’s aware you have been released. He has my mom. He wants Medusa’s head.”

“I believe he’s in Mt. Hem,” Cara said. “He came to see me before you came to Olympus. He wanted me to project his body to Skylar’s house. I only did it because he couldn’t hurt you being transparent; and he also threatened my life. He said even if he didn’t have Medusa’s head, he could still defeat the gods. I have no idea what he plans to do. He’s gone mad.”

“We need to stick with plan B, the plan I had set up in case we had to go to Mt. Hem,” Athena reminded, fixing her hair and pulling it back into a ponytail.

“We can’t all go,” Nick said, dusting the black ashes off his shirt. “Some of us have to stay and help protect the people in New Olympus.”

“Sarah, Aaron, and I will stay behind.” Colin stepped forward. “This is our home. We will defend it.”

“Cara and I will stay,” Tara said, looking at Cara for confirmation. Since she didn’t disagree, Tara spoke again. “They will need our guidance.”

“Then, Zara and I will go.” Dad shifted the bag he carefully guarded.

Zara waved her hand. “There. Now the bag is invisible.”

It was weird to see my dad’s arms out in front of him, holding an empty space.

“To Mt. Hem,” Ares exclaimed, lifting his sword.

Zeus blue eyes turned to the color of coal. His fists tightened together as if to make a point. “Hephaestus is mine,” Zeus huffed under his breath. “I’m coming for you, boy.”

After passing through the portal, we landed at the opening of the cave. Immediately, I felt warmth beneath my shoes. The ground shook in waves, making it unsteady, as we trudged forward in the heat. When the sound of fire blasting bounced off the walls, dirt, dust, and pebbles fell from above.

“I feel like I’m inside a volcano that’s about to erupt. Where is everyone?” Everett asked, placing his sword in front. “I don’t remember it being this hot the last time we were here.” He wiped the beaded moisture off his forehead with the back of his hand.

Everett’s question was answered when we entered. Seeing fire everywhere I looked, I felt like I was in hell. What scared me the most was the lava painting the ground, seeping out into thin streaks that flowed like little rivers. Some even cascaded down, like waterfalls. The ground had a split in the center that wasn’t there before. The split was large, but I could jump across it. I wondered how Hephaestus had done this, and if that was the source of the fire, since hot lava shot up from the opening.

“Great. I’m back in my own world,” Hades sighed. “Let’s go get my nephew and get the hell out of here.”

“Hephaestus!” When Zeus called his son’s name, we had to brace ourselves. The ground rumbled with the intensity of Zeus’ anger. “Show yourself to me. Do not be a coward and hide behind the flames.”

There was no answer as the fire seemed to draw closer and the temperature was getting unbearable.

Amanda placed her arms to cover her face. “Put out the flames, Poseidon.”

With a nod of confirmation from Zeus, Poseidon placed out his hand, drawing out the moisture from the walls of the rocky cave. Like the waves of the ocean, his grew taller than the flame, then fell on top of it. The fire died, and the blistering steam shot out into the air.

“That was easy,” Nick remarked under his breath, but he’d spoke too soon. Fire erupted again, as if it was never put out.

“What the hell?” Everett murmured.

Zeus’s eyes became dark and cold. “Hephaestus. I command thee to come forth. Do not disrespect me. You shall obey me or face my wrath.”

“I’m here, Father.” A voice so cunning and uncaring spoke, humming through the flame as if the flames were talking. “I would like to say it’s nice to see you, but then I would be lying. Have you come to bring me the head of Medusa?”

Zeus glanced around, trying to pinpoint where the voice was coming from. “Hand yourself over. I will make sure your punishment is to a lesser degree. I’m very disappointed in you. Have you no shame? You are a god. We build, not destroy.”

“You destroyed me. You did me wrong by sending me to Mt. Hem. I was alone.” The fire around us burst up and down with his words. “You hid me because you were too embarrassed by the way I looked. You wanted to toss me to death when I was born; aren’t I right, Father?”

Zeus blinked his eyes in surprise and looked down for a second. “We are not perfect, but I’ve never mistreated you. You don’t remember, but when you were a child, you would cry to me, beg me to make you better looking. You would tell me other gods laughed at you, and that no women would love you. You wanted to kill yourself, so I needed to end the misery for you.”

“Liar!” The fire engulfed us. We had to duck to escape the momentary explosion. From instinct, I formed a barrier of water that turned to ice, thick enough to protect us if Hephaestus lost control. When the fired leveled, I sighed with relief.

“I did what I thought was best for you, as I’m doing now,” Zeus continued, as if nothing had happened. “You were sent to Mt. Hem because you were skilled with craftsmanship, with iron, with making swords. You loved being here. When I saw you were the happiest here, I knew I had done right by you. But then you became obsessed with creating, building, and making new weapons and trinkets for others, because you loved their attention. We are mostly weakened by greed, but you were starving for attention. It claimed your entity. It sucked you in and never let you out. You were consumed with the idea of others worshipping you.”

“No, I just wanted your attention.” The fire parted along the trail and across the bridge like the Red Sea did for Moses, and then Hephaestus appeared. I was relieved, and hope sparked again when the intensity of the fire lessened. The hood of a long black cape covered his head, and there was only darkness where his face should have been. Though I couldn’t see his face, I saw his disfigured hands. They were covered with bumps that looked like chicken pox, and two of his fingers were bent, as if he was afflicted with severe arthritis.

Zeus started walking toward him with a tight grip on his staff. “This is my fault. I should have locked you away back then. But instead, I looked the other way, hoping it would pass. Never would I have thought that when we were the weakest, my own flesh and blood would find a way to betray us.”

“Never would I ever thought my father would throw me away in shame.” Hephaestus’s tone was soft and sorrowful. A tiny part of me almost felt sorry for him. That tiny part understood him, having thought my dad had left us because he didn’t love us anymore. Then I thought about who’d caused it all. I had no sympathy left for him.

“You’re not hearing what I have said.” Zeus kept his distance, but was close enough to make a move on him.

“Because it’s all lies.” A pair of red lights where his eyes were flared like fire, then died down.

“Ask your mother. She loved you more than anything in life.”

“Mama?” Hephaestus sounded like a wounded child, dipping his head down as if to recall a memory. “Mama is…gone.”

“I can bring her back for you. We can be a family again. Release Skylar’s mother. She wants her mom back too. Can you do that?”

Hephaestus raised his head slowly and backed away. “Never.”

Zeus raised his staff, pointing it right at Hephaestus. Its blue light sizzled with electricity.

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you, Father.”

“Stop!” I screamed, hoping I’d said it fast enough. Behind Hephaestus was a vulture, holding my mom captive with a knife across her throat.

“Skylar,” my mom breathed, as tears fell down her cheeks.

My heart pounded faster, and the calmness I’d tried to keep on the surface vanished. I was panicking from seeing her pale face, and her stomach…a lump. How? I recalled Hephaestus saying that my mom was pregnant, but I’d thought he was lying. How could this be? My poor dad. He was beyond shocked. At least I was forewarned, but for him, it was a slap in the face. There were no words. And if that wasn’t bad enough, another surprise was added to our nightmare.

“Mother?” the three gods said in accord.

Who were they calling Mother?

“It can’t be.” Poseidon moved closer.

“Rhae. Is that you?” Zeus asked.

“It is,” Hades assured him. “Can’t you feel her entity?”

Dad slid his hand down his face. “How? Is it another trick? She can’t…I don’t understand how it could….” Dad shook his head, looking astonished.

Hephaestus’s cunning laugh pierced my ears. “Tell them…Rhae.”

The anticipation filled me as I patiently waited for answers. The vulture holding my mom brought her in front of Hephaestus and backed away. Instead of allowing her to speak, he began.

“I knew there was something special about Sky’s mom when I tested Sky’s blood. She couldn’t be born great just from human DNA and a useless father, whose bloodline is an unknown mix. So, I had been searching for answers, and when I asked Cara about how the Titans had been overcome by their children, I put two and two together. Why don’t you tell them how it happened…Rhae?”

My mom shifted and struggled to release herself, but to no avail. She rubbed the hem of her shirt and the rope tied around her wrist to dab the sweat along her forehead and began. “I couldn’t remember at first. When Hephaestus tried to turn me into one of his hideous creatures by forcing me to drink the vulture’s blood, I didn’t turn.”

“You can imagine how surprised I was,” Hephaestus added casually with a nasty smirk. I hated that he made it sound like this was some kind of friendly chat.

Mom gave Hephaestus the evil eye she used to give me when I would disagree with her. It was good to see her do something familiar. Whether or not it was true that she was one of the Titans, mother of the gods, to me, she was just my mom. But then…if it was true…Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades would be my half-brothers. Mom continued. “But when he gave me Skylar’s blood, it all came back to me. I escaped during the war…I didn’t want to be in the middle. I was torn between my love for my people and my children. Cronus, my brother, and the other Titans were dethroned and sent to Tartarus while I hid in the mountains. On the day of the doom, I left my entity and jumped into the nearest human body.”

Hades’s eyes softened. “We would have never sent you to Tartarus.”

“You say that now, but you can’t say it for sure,” Mom continued, fidgeting with the rope. “I jumped from body to body. Just as one body took its last breath, I would remember who I was and what I needed to do to survive. I would jump to the nearest one. Sometimes, I was a male, a child, and even a dog. I had been a teacher, doctor, lawyer, you name it…I was many different faces. I had affairs, was married, and sometimes had children. I lived a normal happy life. But in between stages, while I was claiming a body, when I could recall who I was, I’d wish that one day I could remember and be just me.”

Mom caught my eyes and I could feel her love pouring from her. “But my own child has given me that. Skylar did that for me. Her blood was a gift I never thought would be possible.” Her eyes were welling with tears, pouring down her cheeks. “I’m so happy that I’m able to see my children for the last time. As you can see…I’m with child. When Hephaestus realized who I was, he forced himself upon me. It only takes one time for me. I wasn’t known as Titaness of fertility for nothing.”

“I’ll kill him for what he did to you.” Zeus jabbed his staff on the ground, making us lose our balance.

“You may do as you will with your own son, but I will do what I must with mine.” She began to rub her lump in front.

Her words and action made me nervous. I tried to anticipate what she would do, but I couldn’t. Panic struck me to the point I couldn’t think, I couldn’t move. Would she try to save Hephaestus for the sake of her child? Would she fight alongside him? These thoughts ran frantically in my mind, hoping she would come to her senses. After all, she had been with him all this time. Who knew what he did to her, or said to her, to insure she would stay with him. But when I saw that ugly smirk that made me cringe so hard on Hephaestus’s face, I had no doubt I had lost my mom.

Mom’s tears poured even more as she kept her eyes on me. “It’s time to say goodbye, Skylar. I love you very much, and I’m so sorry I won’t be there for you, to watch you grow, to get married, and have children of your own.” Her eyes shifted to Dad. “Victor, I wish we’d had more time together. I want you to know that I’m still the person you married. I loved you then and I still do now.”

Dad blinked in disbelief; he was still in shock. “Let her go, Hephaestus!” he demanded with fury in his eyes.

Hephaestus gloated, moving in front of my mom. “She’s mine.”

What happened next had never crossed my mind. Mom ran for the nearest flame.

“Nooo!” I bellowed in torment.

I couldn’t reach her because Mason was holding me back. And even if I’d been able to try, I wouldn’t have been able to get to her fast enough. She wasn’t as fast as me, but she was faster than a human. I didn’t blame her. I didn’t judge her for her decision. I might have done the same. Knowing there was a monster inside her that would be raised by Hephaestus must be killing her. But…Zeus was the closest to her.

Zeus stopped her dive just as she touched the flame. He wrapped his cloak around her to stop the fire from spreading to the rest of her body and brought her to Poseidon in one swift move. Then Poseidon covered her with his cloak to mend her wound.

“You can raise the child to do good,” Poseidon said. “Give love and the child will flourish, but give hatred, the child will be broken. Look at Skylar. Your child can be just as good as her.”

“You can’t take her. She’s mine. She’s the mother of my child.” Hephaestus’s eyes flared in anger, breaking my gaze, as the walls behind us began to tremble.

“Hephaestus, you have lost your mind. Turn yourself in. Do not make the same mistake you’ve made before. Don’t be a fool,” Zeus commanded, taking one step at a time toward him.

Hephaestus didn’t answer, nor did he even move a muscle. Why wasn’t he trying to escape? When Zeus lunged for him with his staff, the robe dropped to the ground.

“You have no idea what I can do, Father. You have no idea the army I have built. And you certainly have no idea who will be coming for you. You are the fool. Meet. My. Family.” The fire grew with Hephaestus’s words.

Nothing could have prepared us for what happened next. Vultures jumped down from above in swarms. It happened so fast that it felt like they had already been there. Their growls bounced off the walls. We were completely surrounded by humans turned into vultures…masses and masses of them. They were double in size and in numbers compared to the last time we encountered them. Humans turned vultures were stronger, faster, smarter, and skilled with swords.

“Watch out!” Nick hollered.

So it began.

Lightning, water, and fire flashed across my vision every which way I turned, and the clanking sounds of metal upon metal vibrated throughout the cave. The plan B Athena had strategized couldn’t be executed. We could never have foreseen what we’d been told or what had happened here, and I couldn’t believe it had come down to this.

Mason and I always fought side by side. No matter how capable I was, he would always have the need to protect me. To him, I came first, even before his own life. That scared me to no end. I was afraid he would be so concerned with me that he might miss the one behind him, so then it was up to me. We were watching each other’s back, and that was the way it should be.

Zeus ran after Hephaestus, who scurried away when the vultures appeared. Coward! That was what he was. He never put his life out there, instead he had his monsters do his dirty work. But I couldn’t help but feel sorry for these creatures. They were once human—fathers, sons, daughters. They were mostly men, but there were young adults as well. It sickened me that Hephaestus had done this to them. They had no idea what they were doing. They’d died the day a drop of vulture’s blood entered their system.

“We need to douse the flames! The heat is too unbearable.” Amanda blocked a blow with her sword and sliced across the middle of the vulture’s abs.

“Let me try something. Fire upon fire.” Hades spurted fire out from his hand like a hose, turning in the direction of the flames.

It died, and then it would come up again. No matter what Poseidon and Hades did, the fire could not be put out.

“It’s magic fire.” Zara spun around to throw a vulture into the flame, then turned the other way to do the same. “Guard me. I need time.”

We sheltered Zara while Athena and Ares were out of the circle. With their shield and swords, they fought their way to Hephaestus.

Poseidon released my mom from his hold. Looking drained and broken, she ran to me. I held onto to her with all I had within our circle of protection, while Hades watched over us from behind and Mason and others in front. Mom needed the confirmation that we were okay. Even though it was not the right time to do so, I needed to give her reassurance…to make her smile…to give her peace.

“Mom, we’re okay. I’m really shocked by all this, but I’m fine. You raised me. You took care of me when I was sick. You were the one there for me. You sacrificed so much for me. Let’s get out of here first, so we can talk. You and Dad have lots to talk about too.” Tears dotted my eyes. To my surprise, no burn marks scratched the surface of her face or her arms. Her clothes clearly showed evidence she had been in the fire, but other than that, she was whole.

I felt so much for this being that I called Mom. Having to endure what she did and never knowing for sure whose body she would end up in must have been torture. As she wiped her tears, Mom nodded and smiled at Dad and me. She couldn’t stop caressing my face, my arm, and brushing my hair back.

“We need another plan,” Hades said, scorching the creatures coming for us. It was cool how he could take out countless numbers of them with one shot. His fire was massive, beyond what I could produce. His power had come back in full force when Zeus forgave him.

Poseidon surrounded us with water to keep the fire away from us. We were scorching hot as it was; we didn’t need more fire. With his other hand, Poseidon jetted water out, turning it into ice, then Mason and Nick would use their light to blast them to pieces. These pieces exploded out, piercing the vultures. Then Amanda and Everett used their swords to cut the ones within reach in half. The only evidence of their existence was the shards of ice that turned into black liquid, evaporating into the scalding ground.

“Back to plan B of Athena’s plan. It will work,” Zara said, holding out the second black bag.

“I have a plan, too,” Mom said. “But I need Medusa’s head, and Sky needs to come with me.” Mom explained her idea to her.

“That is very similar to plan B,” Zara said, handing me the bag.

“No,” Mason exclaimed. Having keen hearing, Mason broke in our conversation. “You don’t know what he’ll do.” He sent a dose of light with both of his hands and sizzled two vultures at once. “Your daughter is not bait.”

“If we don’t move fast, we’re all going to die,” Mom pleaded. “I know you can’t see them, but Hephaestus has placed bombs all around this mountain. He wants to get rid of all of you with one shot. He’s crazy.”

“Looks like we don’t have a choice,” Everett said, ducking a swing and cutting off the vulture’s arm.

“What are we waiting for?” Amanda shouted, bending back, then kicking up with her feet to slice through the vulture’s head. It was cool how she did that. “Let’s get that sucker.”

“I’ll explain more as we move forward,” Mom said, picking up a small dagger that had belonged to one of the vultures. Her demeanor had changed suddenly. She wasn’t the frail human; she was a warrior.

“Line formation,” I said. I had seen it in a movie, where they moved together in a straight line, back-to-back, so they could cover from both sides. Watching my mom fight with us, like a badass Titaness seemed surreal.

As we moved in that formation, we managed to reach the other side faster. Some vultures fell into the abyss, trying to jump over the split in the center of the cave, and we were able to take out most of the ones that made it over. Mason and Nick split from us and jumped from boulder to boulder, covering us from above.

“Hephaestus,” my mom called. “Stop your vultures. I’m coming to you. You don’t want anything happen to your child, do you?”

The vultures stopped at Hephaestus’s command.

“I’ve convinced everyone to go home. Skylar and I will stay by your side.”

“Rhae. You must think so little of me to think I would believe you.” Hephaestus stepped out from the shadows.

“I don’t. Our child needs a father.” Mom and I passed Zeus. His staff was still glowing. Mom held up a black bag. “Look. I have Medusa’s head.”

Hephaestus uncovered his face. His flaming eyes turned full of greed and desire. “Bring it to me. Let me see it.”

The vultures guarding him parted, leaving a clear path to him. A few feet away from him, Mom and I placed the two black bags down.

“Why are there two?” Hephaestus asked irately.

Athena’s plan was to confuse Hephaestus, and it seemed to be working.

“We were given two by the siren.”

Hephaestus looked baffled. “It can’t be. Open it.” He paused. “No! I’ll do it. Bring them both to me.”

Mom and I picked them up and placed them in front of him. As soon as Hephaestus reached down to open the first bag, I did the same with the one in front of me and breathed a few words that would unlock the spell. “Aperi oculos tuos.” Little did he know that the one he pulled out was an illusion created by Zara. It was Athena’s brilliant plan.

When Hephaestus looked at me, his eyes grew wide and full of shock to see the serpents slithering about on the head I was holding in front of my face. I knew his eyes met hers when light shot out from them, solely focusing on him.

“Feel the wrath of Medusa,” I seethed, cringing at the sound of his cry.

Even taking his last breath, he had to have the last word. He crossed his arms to block the light, but it was too late. “You think you’ve won? You have no idea what I have in store for you, if you make it out of here alive.”

“Save your breath, Hephaestus. Adios, asshole,” Amanda announced with exhilaration.

When Hephaestus turned into a statue, the vultures puffed into black ashes, and the human vultures turned back into humans. Shouts of joy and hugs were exchanged. The relief washing over me was incomparable, but it was short lived. A blast exploded from the far back of the mountain, rippling into more blasts.

“We need to get out.” Mason’s voice panicked against my ear. A minute ago, he had been devouring me with his lips, whispering sweet, hot words that made me quiver.

“Quickly. Come,” Zara commanded, as more blasts erupted. The ground split open in various places, and the walls crumbled down from above. The whole mountain was falling apart. “I need everyone’s help. We need to create a huge portal so we can bring the humans with us. I need to borrow all your energy.”

Zara, with help from all of us, created a massive portal. The smoke didn’t bother us, but it did the humans. They covered their noses and mouths, coughing relentlessly and squinting their burning eyes to see through the smoke that enveloped us. Baffled and overcome, they followed us.

“Where will they go?” My dad asked.

“It will take them home,” Zara answered. “Don’t worry. They won’t have any memory of today, and if they have any recollection at all, it will be as if they dreamt it. Now…it’s our turn.”

Just as the ground underneath us collapsed, we were out of there.

I felt the soft grass below me, breathed in clean air, and fluttered my eyes from the warm sunlight. It felt good to relax my sore muscles. We were safe, but where? Home? I got up to see Mason next to me.

“We’re at Olympus,” Mason answered, as if he read my mind.

He helped me up and I saw all eyes on the statue of Hephaestus. Although he couldn’t do any harm, my stomach knotted from just the sight of him. He had caused so much grief for everyone that it didn’t seem fair that this was his form of punishment. But then again, I didn’t think anything that could be done to him would give me any solace. Even if he died, he would still haunt me. Even his last words troubled me deeply, playing with my mind, clinging to my thoughts. Of course, it could have been just a threat, something to say because that was the way he was; but still, I couldn’t help but wonder what he’d meant by it. Since it seemed like it wasn’t bothering anyone else, I decided to put it aside and enjoy this moment of peace, since it so seldom happened.

“Was this part of the plan?” I asked. “Why didn’t we leave him at Mt. Hem?”

“Because I asked,” Zeus said, as if his words were final. “If we left him there, there would have been a small percentage of a chance that he would have survived. I didn’t want to take that chance. Having him here, under our supervision, will ensure he won’t bring any harm to us.”

“He’ll be placed inside the underground basement in Olympus,” Zara informed.

“What should we do with this?” Hades tossed the black bag as if it was the weight of a basketball.

“I’ll take Medusa’s head back where it belongs,” Poseidon volunteered, catching it.

“I’m sure the sirens will be happy to see you.” Hades twitched his brows. “Don’t stay there too long. We need to catch up.”

Poseidon’s cheeks flushed. “You can come with me.”

“I hate the water. And women with fins don’t turn me on. Besides, Alp…is waiting for me. I’d told her to hide and wait for my call.”

“We don’t need to hear all that. Let’s go to the meeting hall,” Zara said, rolling her eyes.

“Don’t roll your eyes, Zara, unless you want to roll with me,” Hades flirted.

Zara’s face matched the color of the cherry blossoms dangling from the trees surrounding us. Her lips curled up mischievously. “I don’t roll, Hades. I would be too much for you to handle.”

Holy cow! Did Zara just say that?

Hades started chuckling, but it was short lived. Zara had used her magic and tossed Hades to the nearby tree. Hades got on his feet and grumbled while we all had a good laugh.

Amanda covered her ears, walking beside Nick. “Oh…this is too much. I don’t want to hear this kind of talk from old people.”

“Old?” Zeus seemed offended. “We are not old, but wise, little girl.”

That shut her up.

It was good to see my mom and dad walking, hand in hand. They had many things to talk about and things to sort out. Regardless, it was good to see them back together. At least I hoped they would be. I also couldn’t wait to see Kayla and my aunt. There was going to be a lot I had to explain.

“Before we do anything, we need to release the others. Then we’ll make our way to New Olympus and celebrate. We have many things to discuss.” Zeus stood in front of Hera, stroking her cheek. “My love, we’ve been separated too long. It’s time to wake up.” Without making eye contact, Zeus said, “Skylar, will you do me the honor and help me release all my people?”

“Of course,” I replied.

Zeus turned away from Hera and looked at me. His eyes were the color of the ocean. His smile was brighter than the sun. “Thank you. You are a brave one, and so are your friends. I can’t thank you enough.”

Being praised by Zeus, the god of all gods, made my day.

A hoard of cheers, smiles, and hugs hailed us. Tara, Cara, and our friends greeted us warmly and welcomed us in. They were most excited to see the others gods that had been recently revived. Since there weren’t enough seats for all of us, some of us stood around the table.

“Where do we go from here?” the Elders asked.

“We start anew,” Zeus answered, smiling at Hera. Hera seemed very pleased with his words. It amazed me how, after all these years, they bounced back, as if it hadn’t happened. Hera showed no weakness and her beauty was still everlasting.

“We open a new book and start a new journey,” Zeus continued. “For those who call New Olympus your home, you are welcome to stay here. For the gods, we will stay on Mt. Olympus. That is our home. But you are welcome to come anytime as you wish. From this day, all is forgiven. We do not dwell on the past. We move forward with a clean slate. Let’s start with Cara. Come and stand before me.”

Cara’s eyes lit up and she hobbled to stand in front of Zeus with her head down.

Zeus placed his staff over her head. It glowed and sizzled. Zara and Tara, already seated near Zeus, rested their hands on Cara’s head as well. “From this day, you are pardoned from the past. You will be cleansed of all your wrong doings. Be away with the old and come forth with the new,” Zeus hummed.

Lights expanded like spider legs, taking over Cara’s body, and wrapped around her like a cocoon until you could no longer see her. After they completely covered her, they spun the other way to unveil her. What sprung out from the creation was a new Cara. She looked almost identical to Zara and Tara—just as tall, just as beautiful, just as magical.

I could feel Cara’s excitement and gratitude through her expression and her tears. “Thank you, Zeus.” She bowed.

“You are only pardoned once. Make your decisions wisely. Now…have a seat with your sisters. You are an Oracle, after all.” Zeus shifted his gaze toward us. “Hades. Come forth.”

With that swoon worthy stride, he stood before his brother and bowed with one knee down. “My Zeus.”

This time, Zeus picked up his staff and placed it in front of Hades. “From this day forth, you are part of our family. You have been pardoned for all your wrong doings…I believe there is a long list of them.”

Laughter filled the room. It wasn’t that it was something to laugh about, but the way Zeus arched his brows and looked at us with a wink, he lightened the mood. We couldn’t help but chuckle. It was a happy occasion, after all.

“Thank you, my brother,” Hades said sincerely.

“That’s not all,” Zeus continued. “You will have your seat back on our throne, to the left of me. And I promise to listen to your opinions before a decision is made. Now rise, and take your seat.”

“I will, brother. Thank you.” Hades got up and proudly sat down.

Poseidon gave him a knowing smile. “Welcome home.”

“I will announce this to the others tonight during our celebration of victory. Before that…everyone rest and please, take a bath. You all stink.”

More laughter vibrated through the room.

“Kayla is anxiously waiting to see you,” Nick said, leading me to the garden where she waited for me. Kayla and my aunt weren’t allowed in the meeting room since they were human.

“You didn’t tell them about my mom, did you?” I asked, keeping my pace with his. I was sure he was just as eager to see her as I was.

“I only told her the basics. She has no idea about the gods. I think it’s best if they don’t.”

My fingers felt tingly, my pulse raced, and my heart pounded with excitement the closer we got. It seemed like it was ages ago that I had seen her. “Okay.” I nodded. “I agree.”

Nick pushed the door open, letting me step inside first. What made the garden so mesmerizing was the colorful flowers that decorated the trees and the ground. Kayla and my aunt hadn’t seen me yet. They were seated on a bench talking, looking out to the lake.

“Kayla. Auntie Kelly,” I called.

Kayla ran into my arms first, then Auntie Kelly. They held me so tight that I couldn’t breathe.

“Are you okay?” Kelly let go of me and looked me over, as if to look for wounds. Kayla just stared at me in awe.

“Who are you?” Kayla joked, poking me. “Who knew my cousin was a super hero?”

“I’m not,” I said shyly. “I’m still me.”

Kelly glanced around. “I wouldn’t have believed it myself had I not seen this place. The castle, alone, is enchanting, and the beauty of this place is breathtaking.”

“When do we get to go home, Nick?” Kayla asked.

“You get to go home right now.  You’re both free to go.”

“Oh, thank God,” Kelly exclaimed. “I need to check up on my diner. I asked Jack and Mona to look after it while I was gone. They don’t know anything. I promised Nick not to say a word to anyone.”

I giggled from her words. Little did she know Jack and Mona were minions.

“Does your mom know?” Kayla asked, linking her arm to mine.

“No,” I lied. I felt bad for doing it, but I had to. “Please don’t say anything to her.”

Kelly looked worried. I assumed she wasn’t happy that she had to keep a secret from her sister, but Gina wasn’t her real sister…not anymore. “I don’t like that I have to, but this is different. I know it’s to keep her safe, so I will.”

Nick’s eyes gaped between the three of us, shifting from side to side. He looked anxious to get moving. “Ladies, if you’re ready, I’ll drive you home.”

“Skylar, I’ll see you soon.” Kelly turned to Nick. “I’ll go first to give the girls a minute. I know the way to your car.”

With a nod, my aunt smiled at us and started walking.

“Seriously, Skylar. I’m so mad at you for not telling me,” Kayla pouted with her arms crossed. “You kept a huge…and I mean huge…secret from me. That is so not cool.”

I knew I was going to hear it from her. “I’m sorry, but I was trying to figure it out first. And I also didn’t want to put your life at risk.”

Kayla’s frown turned into a smile. “I was just giving you a hard time, but come to think of it…and I had a lot of time to think about while I was waiting to go home…everything that happened, the things I questioned…it all makes sense now. I’m not crazy,” she snorted.

“No, you’re not.” I caressed her hair. “I have things to take care of first, but let’s get together soon. Your mom is waiting.”

Kayla broke her gaze from me and turned to Nick with flirty eyes. “Babe, can you do the thing you did before?”

Oh, my imagination ran wild in a naughty way. I had to shake the thought out of my head.

“Right now? Right this minute?” Nick leaned into her as if he was about to kiss her.

“Uh huh,” Kayla answered, with eyes full of desire.

I needed to turn away, but before I did, Nick yanked Kayla into his arms and took off so fast they were gone before I could blink.

“Get your mind out of the gutter, Sky,” I murmured to myself, and headed to my room to take a hot…or perhaps a cold shower…I wasn’t sure which I needed more.

One thing about friends at New Olympus, they sure knew how to party. Music blasted in the air, and table after table was covered with trays of the best food. The dining hall was filled with people coming and going, eating, laughing, talking, and enjoying the magnificent view through the glass window that took up the whole back wall.

Twinkling lights adorned the trees, brightening up the night, and the stars above made me feel like we were somewhere magical. In a way we were, but it was our reality. Last time we were there, Mason had lit up the whole place. I giggled to myself, recalling when Zara had caught us. I was certain Mason wouldn’t do that again. Mason took me to a bench in a secluded area, so we could have a quieter place to eat and talk.

“It’s nice to see my parents back together again. Did you see them holding hands?” I asked, taking a bite of a rib I held with two fingers.

“I’m happy for you, Sky. Your happiness is all that I want, more than anything in this world,” Mason said, smiling at me. “Is your dad moving back in with your mom?”

“I didn’t ask, but I’m going to assume; or they might end up staying here.”

Mason chewed, swallowed, and placed his fork on the plate. “We need to talk about us. I know you want to finish your college degree and I support you with that, but how about you move in with me during the weekends? What do you think?”

I stopped twirling noodles with my fork and pushed up the edge of my lips. “I practically live at your place, Mason.”

Mason snorted. “That’s true.” He seemed a little nervous and Mason was never nervous, except for the time he proposed to me. I wondered where he was going with this.

After some time of comfortable silence, Mason placed his empty plate down and wiped his mouth with a napkin. Boy…he could eat. He scooted closer and stared at me. “Where are you going tonight?”

“I’m here.” I took a sip of my drink. I knew where this conversation was headed, but I wanted to toy with him a bit. I loved it when he chased after me.

He raked his hair back. “I meant, where are you going to sleep? Are you going home with your parents, or will you come home with me?”

“I don’t know.” I placed my empty plate down. The pile of food was gone. Not having had a good meal in days, I felt like a bottomless pit. “It depends.” I scooted away.

I saw the frown on his face, though he tried not to show it. I knew he knew I was playing when I saw that “to die for” smirk spread across his face. I didn’t know how long I could resist him. When he stretched his arm along the top of the bench, showing the curve of his muscles I loved to touch, he was playing too.

“Depends on what?” He slid closer, caging me. There was nowhere for me to move. My heart pounded faster from his knee touching mine, and from the small idle caress that was traveling along my arm, to my shoulder, up my neck, then along my lips. “Can I tempt you?” His words came out hot and wicked.

“Uh….” I stood up just as he was about to kiss me. That’s when I heard an intake of breath from him. I was sure he heard me giggle.

“Sky, you want to play hard to get?” His eyes sparkled with silvery lights.

“Mason....” I started to say as I backed away, not knowing what was behind me. “I might take the next semester off since I didn’t register yet. What will I do?”

Mason took small slow strides, like a lion that had just found its prey. “You can come work with me. I need to rebuild Bella Amore.”

“Oh yeah,” I said softly, recalling it burned down, thanks to the vultures.

Mason reached me when I bumped into the tree behind me. Taking both of my hands, he pinned them against the tree and leaned in.

Blistering heat blasted through me, as I thought of running my hands up his pecs. But then I thought about how I didn’t want to get caught if any of the others had the same idea as us and headed out this way. So I thought of a solution…get us far away from the castle.

“Catch me if you can.” My words stayed where he stood. Before he could comprehend what had happened, I was standing at a nearby tree.

“Sky.” Mason chuckled. “You know I can. And I will. You might be just as fast as I am, but I have a goal. I’m going to give you the biggest love shock.”

Before I could move, Mason was in front of me. He was just about to get a hold of me, but I escaped and ran to the tree behind us. He chased me from tree to tree until he outsmarted me. When I ran to the next tree, Mason got there a second before I did.

“Got ya.” He pinned me to the tree as our chests moved up and down from being out of breath, mine more than his. Something about the chase, this moment, made us burst into laughter.

We both laughed so hard and loud that I was sure everyone could hear us. It felt good to laugh. It seemed so normal, so good. I noticed Mason had stopped laughing when I saw that dangerous glow in his eyes…the kind of glow that made my stomach tingle. That kind that travelled to my very core, and left me so I couldn’t think…I couldn’t breathe…and then…his lips covered my mouth, and they felt right at home.

My body quivered when Mason pressed his body to mine, and when his hands explored my body, my knees weakened. I knew I had gripped his hair too tightly when I heard a groan. It only made him kiss me harder. My lips ached from missing his lips tasting mine, and his tongue intertwining in a frantic way. I’d missed those strong hands of his caressing me, hypnotizing me, making me want more.

“I missed us so much,” he said, between taking breaths and gingerly kissing my neck.

I opened my eyes to see the twinkling lights blend together on the trees, then I saw colorful dots and streaks explode in the sky.

“I see fireworks, Mason,” I mumbled, dipping my head back from the pleasure he was giving me. We needed to stop, but my hands traveled down his chest. I wanted to touch all of him, every part of him.

“I see them too, but you’re making me explode inside, Echo. We need to stop or I’ll end up showing more than I should.”

I knew what Mason meant, and it made me giggle when he pulled back, panting and looking dazed.

A noise behind the bush made us turn, alert. Mason and I got ready to shoot our lights.

“Come out,” Mason ordered.

Raising their hands, out came Jack and Mona from behind the bushes. “It’s just us.” Jack gave an innocent smile and a nervous chuckle.

“What were you doing there?” Mason asked. “Never mind. I don’t want to know.”

“Don’t be silly, Mason,” Mona added. “We were admiring the stars and eating our dinner out here. It’s too loud in there with all the music blasting. We’re kind of old for that.”

“Speak for yourself,” Jack spat. “I’m not old. I still got the smooth groove in me.” Jack did a funny twirl with his hips.

“Oh, not that. Please not that.” Mona shook her head and covered her eyes with her hands, then placed them by her side.

Mason grabbed my hand. “Well…have a good evening. Sky and I will be heading home soon. We’re going to say our goodbyes to everyone first. So we’ll start with you.”

When they didn’t get the hint, Mason tugged me along after we said goodbye, and started walking toward the castle.

“I told you he was a great kisser,” Mona said. “He’s got a nice ass, too.”

I didn’t know if it was for Mason to hear, but his lips twitched to a grin.

“Stop staring,” Jack grumbled.

“You’re just jealous.”

“No, I’m not.”

“Yes, you are.”

“No, I’m not.”

“Yes, you are.”

“Those two sure know how to entertain themselves.” Mason squeezed my hand and kissed the back of it. “It’s good to see things are getting back to normal.”

“It sure is,” I seconded, as I happily looked up at the fireworks shooting from above.

“Well…well…well…look whose styling.” Nick whistled, as Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades entered Bella Amore.

All three wore jeans and black T-shirts that clung to their chests. Talk about being hot in there. I was sure they’d turn heads, looking like cover models on a runway.

“Hades forced me to,” Zeus said, strutting toward us with his chin held high. “I feel so strange, almost naked without my cloak. Hades told me this…” He waved across his body with his hand…“is what people wear.”

“Never mind, Zeus,” Poseidon said, giving a shoulder rub to his brother. “He’s upset we didn’t teleport.”

“How did you get here?” Mason asked, moving a chair off to the side. He was rearranging the tables. There was still a lot to clean up and fix. Luckily, the fire was mostly isolated to one side of the restaurant. Thank goodness, Noah and Tim were able to put out the fire before it had spread.

Hades slowly raised his lips into a smirk. “I did. I drove a car. I watched you and I learned by…how do you say...hands on driving? Oh, don’t worry….” He tossed a set of keys up in the air in front of Mason and watched them land in Mason’s hand. “It only has a few minor scratches. Oh…and you might need a new bumper. At least I returned it to you in drivable condition.” He patted Mason on the back. “You were right. Driving is so much fun.”

Mason stood in total silence with his jaw dropped practically to the floor, staring at the set of keys in his hand.

“It’s just a car. Get a new one.” Nick nudged Mason to snap him out of his stupor.

“When did you…? How?” Mason sneered.

“I wanted to know what it felt like to drive one, so I took one of yours. I didn’t think you’d mind. After all, you told me I should try it.”

“I didn’t mean my car,” Mason grumbled.

I thought for a second he was going to lunge at Hades. Nick must have thought so, too. He locked his arms around Mason. “Steady, Mace.”

“You have a nice…what do you call…restaurant?” Hades said, gaping about. “You need to tidy up this place. No one will want to dine here.”

“It’s under construction,” I said, narrowing my eyes at him. “And be considerate and ask next time. That’s what people do.”

Hades winked at me. I almost smiled back at him. It was difficult to resist his charm, and I couldn’t blame them for trying things they’d never done before. I was sure they were curious about new inventions, and having to adapt must be daunting.

“What’s that smell?” Poseidon’s deep blue eyes twinkled. “I smell food.”

Before we could reply, the three gods dashed into the kitchen, scaring Everett. He had his hand over his heart while exhaling air just as fast he was inhaling.

“Who invited them?” Everett asked, turning down the flame.

Nick pushed through between Hades and Zeus. “Well…you see….” He scratched his head. “I had a bit too much to drink at the party two nights ago, and suggested that maybe they could blend in with us. We could let them rent one of our houses, and offer them a job when Bella Amore is finished.”

“Are you crazy?” Mason spat. “Too much to drink? So then you must have been really wasted to have such thoughts…yeah…you weren’t thinking.”

Hades’s eyes flared up as he moved closer to the burners. “You think we can’t hold a job and act like humans? They don’t believe in us anyway. Maybe it’s time.”

“No.” Zeus looked at Hades sternly. “They can’t know about us. It’s the reason why we want to follow the Grand brothers, and perhaps we can…you know…the word when you spend time together.”

“Hang out?” I answered hesitantly.

“Yes.” Zeus nodded. “Hang out. So we can properly act among humans without exposing ourselves. How are we to learn the ways of humans if we don’t understand them?”

“True,” Everett said, stirring noodles with a spatula inside the huge pot that could hold enough for an army. “I guess I can teach you to cook in this kitchen, since we won’t be ready to open for at least a month.”

“Sounds good,” Nick said, folding the kitchen towels into a pile. “I can teach them how to be waiters, too.”

“Excellent,” Poseidon said.

“Cool.” Hades looked so proud. “I can say ‘cool’ right?” He looked at us for confirmation.

Everett gave him the thumbs up. Then Hades repeated Everett’s action.

“We might as well start now.” Mason arched his brows, most likely thinking this was an awful idea. “But let’s do one thing at a time. We’ll set up the living arrangements after the restaurant opens.”

“Sounds like a good plan,” Zeus agreed, with a grin.

“I agree too, but….” Hades bent low and looked at the flame burning underneath the pan. “Why is this fire so low? How do you expect it to even cook anything?”

Before we could answer, Hades released fire from his hand. Not only did he char the chicken and the pots and pans, he started a fire in the kitchen that shot to the ceiling, spreading across the top. Suddenly I felt wet all over. The emergency sprinkler system kicked in. Then it felt like a bucket of water was thrown at me. Water was dripping down my hair and over every part of me. I slowly looked up, my teeth chattering as I shook from the cold. Poseidon looked absolutely astonished. We were all drenched, except for Zeus and Poseidon.

“Uh…sorry. I kind of lost control there.” Poseidon posed a nervous half grin.

“Out!” Mason’s temper was at its limit. Light flashed from his eyes and out from his fingertips.

Everett looked mortified. “That…that was my chicken…my special recipe.”

“It’s a sign that it sucks, Everett.” Nick chuckled. “I’m definitely not eating it now.”

“Maybe it’s time to go back to Olympus,” Zeus suggested.

Mason rolled his eyes and released a long sigh. “You can come with us to our house. We need to dry off and change. I’ll order pizza.” He took my hand and started walking out the door, but stopped to turn to Hades. “Oh, by the way….” He handed the car keys back to Hades. “You can have the car. Next time, please ask. I know gods don’t have to in your world, but in mine, you should. It’s just uncool.”

Hades nodded apologetically. “Sorry about the fire.”

“Yeah…well…that’s fine. It’s going to be more than a month for sure now until the opening. What’s another couple of weeks?” Mason said, then started walking again.

“What’s pizza?” Zeus questioned Poseidon from behind us.

“I’m just clueless as you. I’m sure we can eat it, don’t you think?”

“Write it down so we can tell the others. The more they know before they assimilate, the easier it will be.”

“Cool,” Hades said, as we exited Bella Amore to Mason’s car.

I had to admit…they were brave trying to adapt to the new environment and to the new culture. They were pretty cool themselves.

It was sweet of Mason to ask me out on a date. I had no clue he had planned this trip for us until today, nor did I know we were going to another house they owned up in the mountains. Mason told me to wait in the car. He needed to do something before he’d let me in. I wondered what he was up to. Whatever it was, it was exciting.

It had taken us a couple of hours to get there, but I didn’t mind the drive. The scenery was beautiful and breathtaking. It had felt like we were getting closer to the clouds when Mason drove on the winding road. Though it was nerve-racking to drive up the lane that barely fit two cars, the view was amazing. We could see the tips of the trees and the snow that seemed just a touch away. They had reminded me of whipped cream on ice cream sundaes.

Mason opened my door. “Ready?” He gave me his hand and helped me out. The sudden touch of the cold wind smacked my body, making me tremble and crinkling my nose. I loved the smell of the refreshing, cold winter. As my snow boots sunk, I looked behind us to see two sets of footprints and the white blanket of snow that covered as far as I could see. I turned my gaze to the cabin house where we were headed. It reminded me of the gingerbread house my parents and I used to make during Christmas, minus the sweet decorations.

“I was always ready. The question is, are you?” I snuggled under his arm. His arm squeezed my shoulder and locked me into his chest. I loved his acts of affection toward me.

Mason let out a chuckle. “So true, but you can be sure I’m ready now.” Something about the way he said those words got me thinking. What did he mean by that? “Before we enter, I need to tell you something,” he continued. “I need to blindfold you.”

“Mason?” I released a sigh. My anticipation was growing with every step, and he’d just added more.

Mason wrapped a cloth around my eyes and led me up a couple of steps. I heard the creak of the door being opened, and the noise of the wooden floor squeaking beneath my feet. I knew we were inside when I felt warmth brush against me.

Without a word, Mason untied the blindfold, and what I saw before me brought tears to my eyes. The fireplace was lit. Countless candles placed around every inch of the room illuminated it like a sunrise. Rose petals adorned the hardwood floor, scattered about in every step I took, and the aroma of something delicious churned my stomach. The cabin was bigger than I had thought it would be from the outside; but then again, all of their houses were pretty large and decorated with the finest of furniture.

“For my princess, who deserves to be treated like one.” He kissed the back of my hand, watching me stare in wonder.

“Mason…you are amazing.” I jumped into his arms. “Thank you so much. I don’t know what to say.”

Mason led me to the dining table, where a candlelight dinner was already set. “You don’t need to say anything. Let’s eat first. I’m starving.”

“You’re always starving,” I giggled. Mason scooted my chair in, and placed a napkin across my lap. “You know…you would make one fine waiter. I don’t think your female customers could keep their eyes off you.”

He sat down and placed his cloth napkin across his lap. “I only care for one.” He winked. “And I can tell she’s always looking at me. I don’t mind, because I’m always staring at her.”

“Did you plan this all by yourself?” I asked, cutting through the halibut and taking a bite.

“Actually, Nick and Everett, and believe it or not, Hades, helped me.”

“Hades? Really?” I chuckled, taking a sip of water.

“Just as we entered, they went out the back door. Who do you think started the fire and lit all these candles?” Mason snorted. “Not that my brothers couldn’t, but Hades could do it with one shot. It was Nick’s idea. He wanted to save time, so he could meet up with Kayla. Looks like they’re going strong, despite who he is.”

I nodded with a smile, thinking of my cousin. “Yes…she’s awesome. She still asks me on the phone if it was a dream. I can understand though; sometimes I wonder too. But I don’t want you to be my dream. I want you to be my reality.”

Mason gave me that sexy grin that produced funny feelings in my stomach. “Me too.”

I wiped my mouth with the napkin. “If it’s okay…I’ll stay with you until this semester ends. I haven’t enrolled for the next semester yet, and I’m still deciding if I should return or wait till next school year, but I would love to work at Bella Amore, just to have something to do. What do you think?”

Mason had opened his mouth to eat some broccoli but stopped. “You know I will support you in whatever you want to do. And of course I’ll hire you. In fact, I’ll teach you to run the restaurant and you can be the manager if you’d like. I’m not going to force it on you. I want you to know that the option is there.”

I relaxed my shoulders and sat back in the chair. I didn’t know why I felt so intense. “Thank you.”

“So…how is everyone doing?”

“Mona and Jack are back at Kelly’s diner. Zara made my aunt forget everything that happened, which you already know. But she agreed not to erase Kayla’s memory, which you already knew too. Hmmm, what do you not know?” I took a moment to pause. “Well…my parents are living together. They’ve rekindled their marriage and everything is back to normal. It’s funny how it seemed so long since my dad was away, yet having them together, it feels like it never happened.” I took a second to breathe and took another bite of my fish before I continued.

“Mom is dealing with having another child, especially not knowing what he or she will look like. Zara will help her through the process, tend to her needs… since she can’t go to a hospital. I think you know everything now.”

We chatted and laughed as we continued to finish our meals. Mason had even bought cheesecake for dessert. After we finished, we sat in front of the fireplace. It was so romantic and peaceful, just the two of us, that I didn’t want the night to end.

“Can you freeze time so we can be here forever?” I snuggled closer to him. The fire kept us warm, but touching Mason was better.

“Here,” he said, draping a light blanket over us. “I wish I could. But I’m not God. But I’m just like a god in everything else.” He twitched his brows, biting his bottom lip.

Yup…that did it. His arrogant personality and his flirtatious way turned me on immensely. It was bad enough being in the same room with him, just the two of us alone, but feelings of lust and desire tingling through my body made me feel way too hot.

“I have to ask you something. Stand up,” Mason ordered, and helped me up. Still holding my left hand, he kneeled down and reached in his pocket with his other hand. Peering up at me, his eyes radiated from the lights. “I already asked your parents for permission, and you already said yes, but I needed to make it official. We can take our time, though I prefer sooner rather than later. When you are ready, we can set the date. Skylar Rome…will you be my mine forever?”

“Yes, Mason.” I choked up. “I already said yes, silly. You don’t have....” I stopped speaking when he slipped a huge diamond ring on my finger. “Mason,” I whispered, feeling a lump in my throat. I tried everything to keep the tears at bay, but they flowed through my happiness.

Mason stood up and cupped his hands behind my neck. “Now, it’s official, soon to be Mrs. Grand. You can do with me as you please. I’m all—”

Before he could say another word, I crushed my lips to his. Mason parted his lips and entered my mouth with his tongue. He kissed me back with so much desire and passion, that just his kisses alone filled me up. Mason slowed down while he nipped and licked my neck in that perfect spot that made me crumble even more, especially since the night his hands had gently touched me in the places he did at the Night Forest.

I pulled off Mason’s sweater, ran my hands up his warm chest, and kissed his collarbone. Hearing a groan from him told me he liked what I was doing.

“We don’t have to do anything,” Mason murmured, nipping by my ear.

“I want to. It feels right tonight,” I said, between sucking his lips again. “Did you tell your brothers that you were going to ask me?”

“They approved.”

I knew Mason was giving in when he took his sweet time unbuttoning my sweater. “I want this moment to last. I want to make sure you remember our first time together,” he hummed in my ear.

When the sweater was off, Mason draped the light blanket over me again, and kissed me as he undressed the rest of me. He led me down lower and hovered over me, using his elbow to support his weight so he wouldn’t crush me. Having the candlelight glowing around us made it enchanting.

“I love you, Sky.” He pulled his lips back into a grin.

“I love you too, Mason. I’m glad you pulled me over the first night we met.”

“I’m glad I found you. Oh, and no one lives around here. The next house is a mile away. You can glow and sparkle as much as you like. This is going to be our first time together, so I don’t know what will happen.”

I giggled, feeling Mason’s hand lace through my hair. “If we were back home, I’m sure you would make your house glow. No, I take that back. You would blow out all the street lights and light up the whole neighborhood.”

“Sky, I’m going to light up the whole damn sky for you.” His words came out hot and sensual, and I had no idea what to say after that.

Mason took me. He molded his body to mine in the most loving way. He caressed me, loved me, and kissed me tenderly over every part of me. I never knew love could be like that. I was so glad we’d waited, because it was worth waiting for. That place…that moment…I would never forget that night. But I didn’t have to try to hold onto the moment forever. Knowing Mason, I knew there would be more like it. And he wasn’t kidding; he did light the whole damn sky.

“Mom, Dad.” I dove into their arms when they both greeted me by the door.

“Come in. It’s so cold today. You must be freezing.” Mom fussed over me, went to the kitchen, and came back to give us each a mug of tea.

“I thought you were coming next week.” Dad shifted on the sofa to make room for Mom by his side. “I mean…not that I mind you coming today. Of course, you’re welcome anytime.”

I watched Mom lean in to make herself comfortable. She had gotten bigger. Zara had warned us that Mom’s baby would grow much faster in her womb, since she was a Titaness.

“I know we already spoke on the phone, but I wanted to show you the ring Mason proposed with.” I stretched my arms out to show them.

“It’s beautiful. We’re so happy for you.” Mom looked like she had tears in her eyes.

“Yes. It is beautiful,” I agreed. It seemed surreal to see it on my finger. I’d daydreamed about Mason proposing to me, but I didn’t think it would happen so soon. In fact, I never thought we would be a couple, considering his actions when we first got together, but that was before he let his wall crumble and let the good in.

Dad cleared his throat. “To tell you the truth, under normal circumstances, I would have thought it was a bit too early; however, our lives aren’t normal. Mason is a fine young man, and I know he’ll make a great husband. He promised your mom and me that he would.”

“Be happy, Sky,” Mom added. “Life is long for us, yet it can be short. You know what I mean. For now we are safe, but who knows what evil will come about? If there is good, then there is evil. Everything is about balance. You can’t have one without the other. That’s just the way it is.”

“How are you feeling?” I asked Mom, gravitating my eyes to her stomach.

“Tired and hungry all the time,” Mom sighed, taking a sip of her tea. “Honey, how do you feel about all of this? I want to know what you’re thinking.”

I placed my mug down on my lap and looked up. “I know it’s normal for the gods to…you know…” Oh God, I didn’t want to say the word “sex” in front of my parents. Although this was more like rape. “…make babies with siblings, but what Hephaestus did to you was wrong. And yet, you seem fine with it. I mean…I don’t want you to have a nervous breakdown, but….” I didn’t know what else to say or how to say it.

“I’ve been talking to Zara…a lot. And having sessions with all the three Oracles to help me get through this.” Mom laced her hand in Dad’s. “Your father has been wonderful and understanding.”

“I didn’t know that.” I looked away shamefully.

“It’s quite normal for the gods to sleep with their siblings, and get married to them, like Zeus and Hera. I’m your mother, and I’m also someone else. But that doesn’t mean I love you any less. What Hephaestus said was true. You are more powerful than the descendants, because you have Titan’s blood in you. Because I’m inside a human’s body, I’m not as strong and powerful as I would be if I were myself. I’m going to have this baby. If it survives, we will raise our child with enormous love, just as we have with you.”

“What do you mean ‘if it survives’?” I held the warm mug with both of my hands, not because I was cold, but because I needed to hold onto something. The warmth gave me comfort.

“He or she. We don’t know if it’s a boy or a girl. The baby’s position is making it difficult for Zara to pinpoint the gender. The heart…it’s very weak. Hephaestus forced me to drink…I don’t know if it was your blood or the vulture’s blood. It’s doing something to the baby. And to tell you the truth…I’m not sure if I’m happy or sad about it. I don’t know what I’m feeling. I’m just trying to do the right thing. This is all too much for me, as I am sure it is for you. All of this…everything we’ve been through has been too much.”

Mom looked down at her mug after taking a sip. I didn’t want to upset her. It wasn’t the reason why I’d come here. I just wanted to ask her a few questions that were bothering me. “Sorry. I didn’t mean….”

Mom looked up. “It’s okay. You don’t need to be sorry. I’m just glad everyone is safe.”

“Did Hephaestus say anything to you about…?” I wasn’t sure how to ask the question. “Just before he turned into a statue, he said that this was just the beginning, that he had other plans. Do you know what he meant by that? Did he tell you anything or say anything that was suspicious to you?”

Mom looked up to the ceiling, seemingly trying to recall. “He didn’t hint at anything. He could have just been saying things to make himself feel better. Don’t worry, Sky. Hephaestus always spit out threats to make us worry. He had the need for attention. He would do anything to make us think of him, even till the very end.”

“Okay.” I nodded, pushing the thought aside. Perhaps Mom was right. I was over-thinking things.

“I think it’s time to eat. I don’t know about you two, but I’m starving.” Dad stood up and helped Mom to stand.

“Come on, Sky.” Mom gestured with a tilt of her head. “You can set the table, for old times’ sake.”

And just like that, things were back to normal. It was just the three of us…the family that was before I was eight years old. We talked about the years before I turned eight. Some of the things my parents mentioned, I couldn’t remember, but others were vivid in my mind, as if they’d happened yesterday. I never thought I would see my dad again, but here he was. Three lost souls finally put back together after all these years. Hope was a small word, but when delivered, it was huge.

“Welcome, Sky and Mason.” Mona greeted us when we entered. Looking at the time, we’d just missed the dinner rush. Mona gave each of us a hug, and led us to our table. She reeked of perfume, like always, and this time she’d changed her hair to red. “Kayla and Nick are in the kitchen. I’ll go get them.”

“Nice color,” I complimented, before she had a chance to move. “It goes well with your skin tone.”

“Thanks.” Mona blushed, fluffing her hair.

“I can’t believe this place got cleaned up so fast.”

Mona glanced around, then whispered, “We had help from the gods. Hades felt bad that the creatures he created with Medusa did all these bad things.”

“Good. I’m glad he did,” I said. “He’s got a lot to make up for.”

“Hey, beautiful. Hey, Mason,” Jack waved with a spatula in his hand, breaking into our conversation.

“Hey, Jack.” Mason and I greeted in accord. Our attention shifted to Nick and Kayla stepping out of the kitchen, and then it turned to Amanda, Noah, and Everett walking into the diner.

After our hugs and kisses, we sat down and ordered our dinner.

“So, Nick told me you have something tell us.” Kayla looked at Mason and me, looking too elated.

I looked at Mason with a smile, and then placed my left hand out, which I had been trying to hide from everyone until the right time. I had even twisted the ring so that the diamond faced the other way.

“Oh my God!” Kayla squealed from the top of her lungs. “When? How? I want details.”

After I told them how Mason proposed to me, everyone expressed their happiness for us, even Mona and Jack. Seeing everyone smile and laugh as we ate our dinner made me forget who we were. It was something that I’d surely missed.

“I have news too,” Amanda said, out of the blue, tossing her blonde hair back. “I’ve decided to move to New Olympus. Well…Noah asked me to.” She shrugged sheepishly. “It’ll be easier for the both of us.”

“That’s great. Now I don’t have to hear you snore,” Nick chuckled.

Amanda kicked him under the table. “What do you mean? I don’t snore. I rarely stay over anymore.”

“Exactly. I can hear you all the way from your place.”

“Shut up.” Amanda tossed a piece of noodle at him, but before it could touch him, he zapped it with his electricity. It bounced back and hit Amanda on the nose.

“Ouch.” She wrinkled her nose. “You’re cruel, and you’re so going to get it.”

Splat! Water squirted out of Nick’s cup onto his shirt, leaving a dark patch on his black sweater.

“Don’t mess with my girl,” Noah warned with a grin.

As I listened to everyone giggle, I gave Nick a dose of my fire, just enough warmth to dry up his sweater.

“Thanks, Skylar.” Nick grunted at Noah and ruffled his hair from across the table with his light. It was cool to see how he did that quickly with his dim sparks.

“I can’t believe this.” Kayla looked amazed. “This is just way too cool. It’s like being surround by superheroes.”

“You are, Kayla,” I said, and I meant it. To me, they were my heroes. They’d helped me, knowing there was a chance I could accidently kill them with my blood. They fought alongside me to help me rescue my parents. They risked their lives so they could save humanity. The people would never know, because descendants like us didn’t exist, but I knew. I knew the true heroes, and they were sitting at that table with me. I was lucky to call them my friends.

It had been a month since we locked the nightmares away, and it really felt like it had just been a dream. Having everything back to normal and not having to constantly look over my shoulder gave me peace I hadn’t had in a long time. Needing some time to relax and spend time with my family and friends, I’d decided to sit out the last semester and continue next school year.

It had been rewarding, spending time with Mason at the restaurant and learning how to run it. I’d never imagined all the detail and hard work that went along with running such a fine, elegant restaurant. It also was nice to be a normal couple and do what normal couples did, instead of killing monsters.

There was a lot of construction in Bella Amore; the floors had to be replaced, and the walls had to be re-constructed and painted. Luckily, the outside structure was still good as new.

“I can’t believe we open next week,” Nick said, straightening the black picture frame on the wall. Looking down at the hardwood floor, he smudged something I couldn’t see with his shoe.

Everett came out from behind the cash register. “What I can’t believe is that the three gods are actually going to work part time at our restaurant.” He raised his brows. I could understand his lack of excitement. The gods argued with the Grand brothers about how things should be run in the restaurant, but they had finally come to an understanding.

“Did someone mention the gods?” Hades walked in, pulling down his sunglasses, with Zeus behind him.

No one could ever tell they were gods. With tight jeans and dark gray polo shirts forming to their chiseled chests, I had to admit, they looked gorgeous.

“Nope…and you’re both early.” Mason shoved the menus into the wooden rack where the hostess would be standing to greet the customers.

“We thought we’d grace you with our presence and make your day,” Hades said smoothly, giving me a kiss on the cheek. He gave me a kiss every time I saw him, so it wasn’t a big deal. Although it was more like a big brother type of kiss, Mason always frowned upon that. I thought I heard a growl from him this time.

“I think Hades should work in the kitchen,” I suggested, tugging a strand of hair to my face, trying to hide my blush.

“Why?” Hades demanded to know, arching his brows.

“Because, you’ll either end up flirting with our female customers or they’ll end up flirting with you.”

“Isn’t that a good thing? I can bring more business.”

“No, thanks. Just make sure you do your job and don’t create any problems, please.” Mason added one more chair to the table, then paused. “You drove here, right?”

Hades dangled his car keys and placed them back into his pocket. “Of course, I did.”

The Grand brothers had bought each god a brand new car and taught them how to drive. If they ever got pulled over by a cop, they could use their powers and make the cop forget.

“I drove too, to get extra practice,” Zeus informed. “It’s not so bad.”

“Come sit with us. We’re having lunch.” Mason patted the top of the chair with wood trimming.

“We didn’t come to eat, but if you’re offering, then thanks.” Zeus sat at the head of the table, followed by Hades.

The door swung open. Everett must have slipped into the kitchen just before the gods got there. “Hungry anyone?” He held a tray with plates of food, and stopped from walking any further. “Zeus. Hades. You’re early. Just in time for lunch.”

“Here. Let me help you.” Nick took the tray from Everett and passed the plates filled with chicken, rice, and mixed vegetables to the center, for family style dining. “That looks delicious,” Hades said, waiting for us to sit.

Everett went back to the kitchen and came back with another plate. “Are you excited to work here?”

Hades took a bite from a drumstick. “I need to make money; therefore, I must work. I’ve never done any labor job before. But I think escorting the ladies to their tables won’t be a problem.” He winked at me.

“Some will have a husband or a date, so you behave.” I shook my index finger in a scolding way.

“Yes, ma’am.”

For some reason, I didn’t believe him.

“Surprisingly, I actually enjoy cooking,” Zeus threw in. “I’m coming up with my own recipes.”

“Yeah…about that.” Everett looked nervous. “Let’s just stick to mine…please.”

“The gods are only working once a week, so it won’t be a problem,” Mason said, taking a scoop of rice with his spoon.

“They can’t live on that.” Nick leaned back in his seat. “That’s nothing.”

Mason shrugged, looking apologetic. “Oh…I forgot to tell you that I agreed to pay them a lot more than one day’s wages. I think we need to ease them into catering to real people.”

The conversation stopped abruptly when a noise came from the kitchen. It sounded like a pot had fallen, but that couldn’t be. All the pots and pans were hung from a fixture that was nailed to the ceiling.

“What was that?” Nick asked, frozen in place.

“Damn rats.” Everest grimaced. “We need to do something before we open. I found one, but couldn’t catch it.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Mason asked, standing up. “You know I can give it a dose of my shock without killing it.”

Everett gulped down the glass of water and swallowed. “My ego.”

“Your ego?” Mason chuckled. “Right now, the rat has a bigger ego than you. It knows it can get away. Let’s see how far he can run from me.”

I held onto Mason’s arm before he could leave. “Stop. Eat first.”

“It’s going to get away.” Mason frowned.

“It already did,” I giggled.

Mason curled his lips slowly, letting me know he agreed with me, and sat back down to eat.

“How’s everything at Mt. Olympus?” I asked.

“Everything is back to normal…the bickering, cursing, gossiping, and the partying.” Zeus shrugged. “Sounds like one of the television shows Hades watches.”

I spooned some rice into my mouth. “Do you have any questions?”

“Can you tell me what school is like?” Hades asked, placing his fork down. He was the first one to finish. “Why do the men wear a ribbon thing that hangs down from their neck? If you have a television at your home, why do you go to another place and watch it on a big screen? Why do some cars make noises, and when they do, why do all the cars pull to the side?”

“Who wants to answer?” Nick chuckled. “That’s a lot of questions in one breath.”

Everett started to explain, when we were interrupted with the same noise. This time I stood up.

“Where are you going?” Mason asked, gripping my wrist.

“I need to fill my glass.”

“I’ll get it.” Mason excused himself and left.

Clank! Clank! Clank! The sound of numerous dishes falling rang in the air.

“Looks like the little rat was faster than Mason,” Nick snorted. “It’s smatter than you, Mason! You can’t catch it,” Nick yelled.

We all laughed aloud, until suddenly, the ground started to sway. I thought it was in my mind at first, but then the ground shook like an earthquake…then got even worse.

“Shit. It’s an earthquake.” Everett got ready to duck under.

“Mason!” I yelled. “Forget the rat. Come here!”

When there was no answer from Mason, I ran to him, almost stumbling a couple of times. My body thrashed against the wall when I entered the kitchen. I was shocked to feel a hurricane-like wind twirling everything about, catching everything in its way. Utensils, pans, spices, and even the leftovers from what Everett had cooked were spinning with the speed of the wind.

“Mason! Where are you?” I hollered over the noise.

“Sky!” I heard, but I couldn’t locate where he was.

A shoe appeared in my sight…jeans…then a brown sweater. To my relief, I saw that Mason was fine, but I wasn’t. Something was pulling me. I could feel the strong tug on my body from behind me. When I turned to look, I could see a hole that was getting bigger, and endless darkness that would swallow me up. I tried shooting with my volts, fire, and even water, but whatever was holding me would not budge.

“Mason!” I screamed.

“Sky. I’m coming.” That was what I heard.

The kitchen’s double doors shot open. Nick’s eyes went from Mason crawling on the floor, and then to me. He tried to enter, but the wind wouldn’t let him in. Every time he stuck his feet or hands inside, it pushed him back out. Everett, Hades, and Zeus tried to enter as well, but the same thing happened to them.

I managed to give Mason my hand when he extended his arm to me. Planting his feet a distance apart on either side, he wrapped his arms around my body like a blanket.

“Let go, Mason, or you’ll end up sucked in,” I said aloud.

“I’m not letting you go, Sky. Don’t let go, you hear me? If you go, I go. Don’t you remember? Wherever you go, I follow. My heart lives inside you. When I count to three, light up with everything you’ve got. Give me your best love shock, baby. One…two…three!”

Mason’s body glowed with mine, making the intensity of the volts light up the whole kitchen…so bright that our light took up every inch. Mason and I were thrown, sliding, across the tile floor. Everything in midair dropped to the ground, and the wall closed as if nothing ever happened.

Our hearts pounded against our chests in unison, as our breaths escaped in relief. Fear written on our faces had been replaced by disbelief. Still on top of Mason’s body, my muscles began to relax, but I couldn’t help the tremors that controlled me.

“You didn’t have to make a mess in the kitchen and give us a show. All you had to do was let us know you wanted to be alone,” Nick joked, then his tone changed. “But seriously…both of you okay? And what the hell was that?”

Mason helped me up. “Are you hurt?” When I shook my head, he turned to Nick and Everett. “I have no freakin’ clue. Do you know, Hades? Zeus? You have enemies, don’t you?”

Hades’s eyes flamed up. He really needed to learn how to control that. “Are you blaming me?” He leaned in, standing in a challenging stance.

Nick pushed his way through the narrow space between Mason and Hades. “We’ve got a huge problem and we’re not adding more mess to this mess. We’re opening in one week. We need to get our shit together. Zeus, please ask the Oracles to come here. We need them to investigate and find out what caused the black hole. Meanwhile, I pray this doesn’t happen again.”

“Nick is right,” Zeus added. “Let’s try to clean this place up and find some answers. I’ll ask the Oracles to come here.”

Mason and Hades backed away, turning their backs on each other at the same time. We all started to clean up the mess. I grabbed a broom and swept the broken dishes to a pile, then picked up some utensils and placed them on the stone counter. But while I was cleaning, I couldn’t help the panic creeping along my spine. My muscles became tight and I couldn’t shake the fear growing inside me…building up until something burst through the wall. Chunks of wood and cement were thrown across space.

Something hard hit the side of my head, knocking me down. My vision became blurry and humming sounds filled my ears. Dazed and dizzy, I managed to hold onto the counter and pull myself up to see…what in the world? I blinked my eyes because it was so unfathomable; a giant fist had punched through the empty black space. It happened so fast that my judgment was out of whack.

“Mason!” I screamed from the top of my lungs. The huge hand was so big that it had completely wrapped around Mason’s body with its fingers. I could only see Mason’s head and his arm pressing on top, trying to get out. Lunging toward it, I was able to jump on it and held onto Mason’s arm.

The hand vacillated from side to side, knocking and blocking others from helping Mason escape. No matter what we tried to do, there was no effect.

“Get out!” I tugged and yanked the top finger as I felt it sliding back into the hole.

“I can’t,” Mason said, trying to twist and turn to loosen himself. “I can’t even light up. Sky, get down.”

“No, Mason.” I grabbed his hand, panicking, as terror pricked achingly through me. “Don’t let go. Wherever you go, I follow, too.” I was afraid for Mason. We had no idea what had happened, and not knowing what it was or where it came from was the worst. We wouldn’t even know how to search for him.

“Mason! Hang on. I’ve got you.” I heard Nick holler, while shooting out his energy. Everett threw pots and pans at it, and Hades busted out his fire. Zeus, without his staff, shot out lights from his hand, but it was all to no avail.

Mason didn’t look afraid. He was more concerned about me. Damn him! For the first time, I needed him to think about himself. “Let go, Sky. You can’t come with me. I love you, Sky. Sending you a love shock, baby.”

“Mason, noooooo!”

Mason was determined not to have me follow. Using all the energy he could muster, he sent me his love shock, causing me to fly through the air and land with a thud. Something else came flying with me, but I didn’t know what it was and I didn’t care. My engagement ring fell in front of me, spinning, just as I cried out for Mason. My Mason was gone!

“Mason!” I cried, running to the wall just as it had closed back up. I pounded my fists desperately against it, like I was playing the drums and I wanted the whole world to hear my agony…until I could feel no pain…nothing…because I was in a state of shock. The blood from my hands marked the wall over and over again.

My mouth parted to cry out, but no sounds escaped. All I felt was the wetness on my face, streaming down faster than I could blink. Someone grabbed me from behind, forcing me to stop beating the wall, but that didn’t stop my legs from kicking and my arms from flailing, trying to get back to the wall.

“Let it all out. I’ve got you.” It had to have been Hades’s voice, because Nick and Everett were cussing and hammering against the wall. I knew their pain, because it was my pain too.

Lighting…water…fire…all three energies were shooting out from me, but Hades had lessened the impact by holding me with all of him.

“Nooooo!” I heard my cry. It came out like a balloon finally letting out the air, softly, then louder. “Mason!” I continued to reach for the wall, as if I could go bring him back.

Hades kept me in his arms, and when I had no fight left in me, I turned to him and bawled my eyes out. Pain had swallowed me so tightly that there was no way out. My lungs hurt from all that screaming and crying, but I didn’t care. My Mason was gone. He was just…gone.

“Sky, we’ll find him. We’ll search to the ends of the earth to find Mason,” Nick seethed through his teeth. I couldn’t see what he was doing since I had my eyes closed, pressed on Hades’s arm. Too shocked and worn out, I had no life in me to move.

“Stay with Sky. I’ll go get the Oracles now,” Zeus said to Hades.

“Do you have any idea what or who it could be?” Everett asked.

Neither of the gods said a word. I dabbed my eyes with my sleeve, and caught Hades’s eyes when I peered up to see why he hadn’t answered. The fear in his eyes told me he knew.

“I do,” he said finally, looking at Zeus. “It was Cronus, our father.”

The air was still, and not a breath was released. Mason was in the hands of the worst beast there was. Hades’s tone alone expressed that he was frightened beyond anything measureable. My heart stopped and fear crushed my soul, and I prayed Mason would be found quickly, and unharmed. There was nothing I wouldn’t do to find Mason…nothing.

I gently pushed away from Hades’s arms and said, “I’m coming with you. We need to tell the other gods and my parents.”

“Wait. There is someone else.” Zeus showed us a golden apple in his grasp. “This came through just as the portal closed.”

“What does that mean?” I asked.

“The only person I could think that would throw a golden apple would be Eris, the goddess of chaos,” Zeus answered, looking baffled. “She was angry when she wasn’t invited to King Peleus’s wedding. On that day, she warned us of the day that would come to destroy us all. She also warned that Hades would curse us. I think she was referring to the vultures. Just before she disappeared, she tossed a golden apple down the middle of the aisle and said ‘This belongs to the fairest.’ She caused confusion and chaos that day.”

As I began to grasp what the gods had told me, something in me changed. I pushed my pain away, for Mason’s sake. I needed to shake out of it. I had already wasted time crying. Mason needed me to find him, and that was what I intended to do. It was time to be the descendant I was meant to be; after all…I was from the origin.

“Cronus…I’m coming for you,” I seethed under my breath, feeling energy run through me in anger. Though I was deathly afraid, I had to be strong for Mason. There was nothing I wouldn’t do for him. I was ready...I had to be.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Author Mary Ting resides in Southern California with her husband and two children. She enjoys oil painting and making jewelry. Writing her first novel, Crossroads Saga, happened by chance. It was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother, and inspired by a dream she once had as a young girl. When she started reading new adult novels, she fell in love with the genre. It was the reason she had to write one-Something Great. Why the pen name, M Clarke? She tours with Magic Johnson Foundation to promote literacy and her children's chapter book-No Bullies Allowed.

Website: www.authormaryting.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/CrossroadsBook
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Twitter @MaryTing

Email: authormaryting@outlook.com

Blog: www.marytingbooks.blogspot.com

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Table of Contents

- ONE
- TWO
- THREE
- FOUR
- FIVE
- SIX
- SEVEN
- EIGHT
- NINE
- TEN
- ELEVEN
- TWELVE
- THIRTEEN
- FOURTEEN
- FIFTEEN
- SIXTEEN
- SEVENTEEN
- EIGHTEEN
- NINTEEN
- TWENTY
- TWENTY-ONE
- TWENTY-TWO
- TWENTY-THREE
- TWENTY-FOUR
- TWENTY-FIVE
- TWENTY-SIX
- TWENTY-SEVEN
- TWENTY-EIGHT