2. I Get a Present from Dad
After what seemed like an eternity, I woke up. I was still haunted by the 2 facts I learned yesterday: 1. my loving sister, Bianca was dead, and 2. my father was Hades, Lord of the Dead. I also realized that I was in New York with no money (mortal or drachmas), no food, no clothing and no form of protection against mortals or monsters. I was in a hopeless situation. I was so deep in my thoughts that I almost didn't notice that I wasn't in Long Island anymore; I was in what appeared to be Central Park. I knew my geography wasn't any good, but I did know that I was far from Long Island. Either I ran all the way here, or someone or something carried my all the way here. I was getting nervous, and I didn't notice a jogger appear out of no where and sit down right next to me. "Aaah," I screamed out when he sat down. He looked at me and he said, "You know you know me." I thought that he was a drunk, but I realized that he looked familiar. He had the same features as some of the kids at Camp Half-Blood and I realized who he was. "You're Hermes, God of Thieves." He grinned and said, "I'm also the Messenger of the Gods. And I have some packages for you." He waved his hand and a bundle of black packages appeared on the side walk. I opened the first package. It was a bag filled with 300, 100 drachmas, tons of clothes, and a ring in the shape of a skull. I put on the ring and it was so cold my hand went numb. I set the backpack aside and unwrapped the other package, revealing a long, black saber that was slightly curved at the end. Printed on both sides of the sword was one word: Umbra.
It, too, was cold to the touch. I opened the last package and it was the most valuable thing I received so far: a letter from my father. I opened it with shaking hands. It was in curvy, dark print.
Dear Nico,
I am sorry about your sister's death. It was very unfortunate. I wish that she never had to die like that. But, I made sure she was given the best judgment while she was here in the Underworld. Again I am deeply sorry for her death. ... Anyway, the items that you received from Hermes are more than just gifts; they are tools to be used for survival until you reach the entrance to my realm in Los Angelos. The backpack is a magic item that can hold more things than a regular bag. When you put on the skull ring, touch the face and it will expand into a shield. I personally forged your blade from the finest Stygian Iron. It cannot break and it will absorb the essence of a monster and convert it into energy. Come to me in the Underworld and train with me. When I'm finished with you, you will be able to defeat Ares in battle. Please consider, my son.
Your Father,
Hades