Chapter 19: The Witch of Peru

After Ethan was taken, Deno gathered his friends—Percy, Annabeth, Amy, and Grover. They assembled in the living room, their faces etched with concern.

Annabeth was the first to speak. "We need a plan. Lambert won't be easy to track, but we have to start somewhere. What do you know about him?""Not much,"

Deno admitted. "But I've been studying, trying to piece together my past. I found a reference to a powerful witch in Peru—Catalina. She might be able to help".

Amy nodded. "Then we start there. We'll split up and gather information. Percy, Grover, and I will look into Lambert's possible whereabout".

Annabeth and Deno, you find Catalina.""Be careful," Percy said, his eyes serious. "We don't know what we're dealing with yet."

Deno thanked his friends, feeling a surge of gratitude and determination. They were in this together, and he wasn't alone.

The Matrons

At home, Deno broke the news to the Matrons. They gathered in the kitchen, the air thick with worry. Clara, his foster mother and Ethan's real mother, clutched her chest in distress, while her mother,

Mary, tried to stay composed."Deno, what happened?" Mary, the eldest, asked, her eyes wide with concern.

"It's Ethan," Deno said, his voice shaking. "He's been kidnapped. A man named Lambert took him, and it's because of me."

Clara stepped forward, her face pale. "Because of you? How?"

Deno took a deep breath and explained everything—his fragmented memories, the flashbacks, the spell that had gone wrong, and Lambert's sinister plans.Mary clasped her hands together, her face pale.

"This is terrible. We need to call the police."

"No," Deno said quickly. "Lambert is powerful. The police won't be able to handle him. I need to find Catalina in Peru. She's the only one who can help me understand my past and save Ethan."

Clara looked into Deno's eyes, her fear palpable but mixed with determination. "Then go, Deno. Find this Catalina. But promise us you'll be careful. We can't lose you too."

Deno nodded, feeling a mix of fear and resolve. "I promise."

Peru

Deno prepared to teleport to Peru, his mind racing with thoughts of Ethan and the mysterious witch. With a deep breath, he focused on the location and felt the familiar pull of magic as he transported himself across continents.

He arrived in a bustling street in Lima, the capital of Peru. The air was warm and filled with the scent of exotic spices and fresh fruit. Narrow cobblestone streets wound through colorful markets where vendors sold handmade crafts, jewelry, and vibrant textiles. The sounds of laughter and music filled the air, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

Deno wandered through the streets, absorbing the sights and sounds. The architecture was a blend of colonial and modern styles, with ancient stone buildings standing side by side with sleek, contemporary structures.

He asked for directions and followed the winding alleys until he reached a small, unassuming house at the edge of the city.A wooden sign hung above the door, reading "Mental Healing." Deno felt a shiver of anticipation as he stepped inside.

Catalina

The interior of the house was filled with shelves of books and various magical artifacts. The air was thick with the scent of herbs and incense. A woman in her thirties with striking red eyes stood behind a desk, her gaze intense and knowing.

"Are you Catalina?" Deno asked, his voice steady but tinged with urgency.

"I am," she replied, her eyes narrowing slightly. "And you must be Deno. I've been expecting you."

Her words sent a shiver down his spine. "How did you know I was coming?"

"Chrono vision," she said simply, gesturing for him to follow her into a cozy sitting area. "Come, we have much to discuss."

They sat across from each other, and Catalina's gaze seemed to pierce through him. "Tell me everything," she said, her voice calm and measured.

Deno recounted the events leading up to Ethan's kidnapping, his dreams, and his quest for answers. Catalina listened intently, her expression thoughtful.

"You believe the spell that caused your memory loss is linked to Lambert's plans?" she asked.

"Yes," Deno replied. "And I think my memories might hold the key to stopping him."Catalina nodded.

"Your instincts are correct. The spell that affected you is powerful and ancient. It's not just about memory loss; it's about control. Lambert wants to use you for something far greater."

"Can you help me recover my memories?" Deno asked, hope tinged with desperation in his voice.

Catalina leaned back, her eyes distant as if she were seeing beyond the present."There is a way, but it will not be easy. You must find the Cup of Hydra Poison and a letter written in gold. Only then can we unlock your memories and free your brother."

Deno felt a surge of determination. "Where can I find these things?"

Catalina handed him a piece of parchment with an address. "The cup is in an ancient temple, hidden deep within the Peruvian jungle. The letter is held by a reclusive scholar in Lima. You must bring them to me within five days, or your brother's fate will be sealed."

Deno nodded, his resolve unwavering. "I'll find them. Thank you, Catalina."

She placed a hand on his shoulder, her touch surprisingly warm. "Be careful, Deno. The path ahead is fraught with danger, but I believe in you."

As Deno left her house, the weight of his mission settled heavily on his shoulders. Time was running out, but he was determined to save his brother and uncover the truth of his past. With newfound purpose, he set off into the night, the streets of Peru guiding him towards his next challenge.