Disclaimer: I don't own Percy Jackson or Harry Potter.
The Ever Twisting Wind: The Gaean War
Interlude: Katie's Quest
Beta:
~ Some time before the Seven's tribulations in Rome, Tartarus and at the House of Hades ~
As the war against Gaea entered what everyone with a brain could tell was the home stretch, Katie found herself at the heart of the operation dedicated to constructing the secret weapon she and her fellow nature spirits were building. They weren't the only ones either. Katie knew that Azeios, Lucy and their crazy band of misfit monsters had also slipped away from Camp to work on their own superweapon for the coming confrontation. Everywhere, those who could contribute were preparing for the climactic battle.
Towering over the clearing where they were working was the skeletal framework of a massive colossus, the ambitious contribution of Katie and her fellow nature spirits. Its unfinished form loomed against the sky like a defiant sentinel, a silent promise of resistance. Verdant vines already clung to its monumental body, their twisting tendrils weaving through the structure as if it were alive, awaiting its final breath of vitality.
The clearing bustled with activity as nature spirits worked tirelessly to complete the colossal figure. Dryads like Katie poured their efforts into nurturing the living components, coaxing the vines to grow stronger and interlace seamlessly with the structure. The Aurae, their ethereal forms shifting and flickering like windblown light, guided tendrils of greenery into place. Satyrs darted nimbly across the site, combining sharp intellect with physical agility to carry out tasks requiring finesse. Even the elusive Oreads and Naiads lent their strengths, the former reinforcing the colossus's stone foundation while the latter infused its wooden framework with the resilience of water's endless flow.
Each spirit brought their unique abilities to the monumental task, united by a shared determination. Every leaf, stone, and drop of effort spoke of their unwavering resolve to ensure the colossus would stand ready to face Gaea's forces in the final battle. It was more than a weapon. It was a symbol of hope and defiance, a testament to the strength of nature itself.
Katie should have been among them, lending her strength and skill to the monumental task before them. As Andi's lieutenant, her presence served as a rallying point, and her magic often played a pivotal role in such undertakings. Yet, her fellow Dryads, deeply concerned by her evident exhaustion, had resolutely refused to let her continue. It was rare for her companions to defy her wishes, but their determination on this matter had been unyielding. Not even her status as Andi's chosen could sway their resolve.
Reluctantly yielding to their insistence, Katie had stepped away and planted the vibrant pine tree that served as her tree-self nearby. Standing proudly at two meters, its young, verdant form radiated vitality, an unspoken symbol of her bond with the natural world and a quiet acknowledgment of her presence. Accepting her reprieve with muted resignation, Katie sought solace in a playful game of frisbee with her Mimic familiar, Brick.
The golden sunlight bathed Katie in its warmth, casting a radiant glow over the delicate emerald silk of her gown, which shimmered with a soft, otherworldly brilliance. Intricate embroidery of vines and leaves adorned the fabric, seeming to ripple gently with her every movement, as though alive with the magic of her nature. Her long brunette hair cascaded gracefully down her back like a waterfall of earthy tones, framing a serene and youthful face. It was a face she was grateful to have regained. It was no longer that of a child, but thanks to Andi's blessing, now that of a sixteen-year-old. She was steadily maturing back to the eighteen-year-old she had been in her first life before her untimely death. Though she had been reluctant to rest, a gentle smile soon found its way to her lips as she watched Brick's antics unfold.
At first, Brick had assumed the unassuming form of an ordinary flower pot, blending inconspicuously with the surroundings. Yet, the moment Katie raised the frisbee, his transformation was almost comical in its enthusiasm. Massive jaws, lined with razor-sharp teeth, erupted from his smooth surface, while an absurdly long tongue flopped over the rim, writhing with excitement. From his sides, restless pseudopods sprouted like eager tendrils, twitching with boundless energy. Brick's lively antics mirrored his unwavering eagerness to delight Katie, a sight that softened her initial resistance to taking a much-needed break.
"Alright, Brick," Katie called with a gentle laugh, her voice lilting with playful warmth. "Let's see if you're as good at catching this as you were last time."
Brick responded with a guttural growl that rumbled like distant thunder, his form quivering with excitement. Katie drew her arm back, the delicate embroidery of her gown catching the light, and let the frisbee fly. The disc spun through the air, gleaming against the sunlit backdrop. Brick sprang to life, his pseudopods snapping him upward in a fluid motion. His massive jaws closed around the frisbee with a satisfying snap, and he landed with an audible thud that sent small puffs of dust into the air.
"Good catch!" Katie praised, clapping her hands. Brick's tongue curled around the frisbee, tugging it from his mouth as another pseudopod extended, handing it back with surprising delicacy. Katie shook her head, chuckling. "See? You're learning not to slobber on everything."
Brick emitted a chortling growl, his version of a satisfied laugh, as Katie spun the frisbee deftly between her fingers. The disc bore the marks of Brick's enthusiastic bites, its edges slightly tattered, but it remained functional enough for their game. For now, that was all that mattered. The clearing rang with the sound of laughter and playful growls, a moment of levity against the backdrop of the monumental task that lay ahead.
Nearby, the unfinished colossus stood like a solemn sentinel, its skeletal framework entwined with climbing vines that wove through its structure, a vivid reminder of their greater purpose. Yet, Katie allowed herself to focus on the simple joy of the present, her bond with Brick a comforting constant. It was moments like these, fleeting and cherished, that reminded her of the companionship and resilience that carried her through even the darkest of days.
"Ready, Brick?" She called, her youthful voice carrying a playful lilt as she spun the frisbee in her hands.
Brick responded with a series of excited growls and a snapping motion of his makeshift jaws, his tongue flicking toward the frisbee like a serpent scenting the air. Katie giggled, the sound light and carefree, a momentary reprieve from the weight of the ongoing war.
"Alright, but no eating this one, okay? It's our last good frisbee!" She admonished, shaking a finger at the Mimic. His toothy grin widened unnervingly, but she knew he understood. Probably.
With a fluid, almost instinctive motion, Katie drew her arm back and released the frisbee, sending it spinning gracefully through the air. The clearing echoed with laughter and playful growls as their game continued with Brick leaping into action the instant the disc left her hand, his pseudopods propelling him into the air with the precision and force of a spring-loaded trap, his form a blur of movement against the sunlit backdrop.
His maw opened impossibly wide, rows of sharp teeth glinting as he snatched the frisbee mid-flight with a satisfying snap. Landing heavily on the ground, yet again causing a small cloud of dust to puff up around him as his pot-like form settled back into place. Letting out an eager, almost triumphant growl, Brick wiggled slightly, his excitement clear as he readied himself for yet another round of their game.
"Good boy!" Katie praised, clapping her hands with a bright smile. She watched with amusement as Brick's long tongue curled around the frisbee, tugging it free from his gaping maw. Remarkably, the disc didn't seem much worse for wear after his latest enthusiastic bite. One of his pseudopods extended gracefully, carefully handing the frisbee back to her with a surprising gentleness that belied his usually ferocious appearance.
"See?" Katie said, her tone teasing as she took the frisbee from him. "You can be gentle when you want to."
Brick let out a low, pleased growl, his pot-like form giving a slight wobble, as if basking in Katie's praise. She turned the frisbee over in her hands, inspecting it for damage. Remarkably, it was still intact, though a faint coating of Mimic drool gleamed in the light. With a soft sigh, Katie used the corner of her gown to wipe it clean, the shimmering emerald fabric catching the sunlight as she worked.
"You could work on the slobber, though." She muttered under her breath, casting Brick a playful glance. The Mimic responded with a chortling growl, his pseudopods wriggling slightly as though in mischievous defiance, clearly unfazed by her lighthearted complaint.
For a few blissful moments, Katie continued their game, her laughter mingling with Brick's guttural chortles as they repeated the throw-and-catch routine. The wind carried the scent of pine from her nearby tree-self, blending with the earthy aroma of the worksite. Occasionally, she glanced toward the towering colossus under construction, its vine-draped form an ever-present reminder of their purpose.
As Brick bounded after yet another throw, his flower-pot form morphing with each leap to accommodate his momentum, Katie placed her hands on her hips and sighed contentedly. Her gown swayed slightly in the breeze, the cascading train brushing the grass as she watched her Mimic companion's antics. Despite the chaos and fatigue that weighed on her, these stolen moments of peace with Brick grounded her, reminding her of the joy and absurdity of life even amidst the gravest of battles.
Brick soon hopped back toward her, his oversized jaws clamping down on the frisbee with exaggerated triumph. He plopped the disc at her feet with an eager wriggle of his many pseudopods before sitting back in his default flower-pot form, though his tongue still flopped lazily over the rim. His toothy grin seemed to radiate pride, and Katie couldn't help but laugh softly at his enthusiasm.
"Alright, last one, Brick." She called, her voice warm but firm. She adjusted her throw, sending the frisbee sailing high into the air. Brick roared with excitement, his pseudopods springing him upward to snatch it triumphantly.
"Good catch, you little monster." Katie said fondly, catching the frisbee as he handed it back with another gleeful gurgle. She ruffled his smooth, pot-like surface affectionately. "Now let's see if the others will let me help again. Break time's over."
Almost as if on cue, Clytie approached, her sunflower-petal hair catching the sunlight in such a way that it created a radiant halo around her head. Her green skin glistened faintly, the freckles scattered across her cheeks resembling sunflower seeds, adding a touch of earthly charm to her already striking appearance. She moved with the unassuming grace of the earth itself, her every step seeming to flow in perfect harmony with the natural world, a seamless reflection of her connection to their goddess, Andi. Nude and wholly unashamed, her bare form stood as a testament to her origins, a flawless union of beauty and nature, unburdened by the constraints of mortal modesty.
Yet, for all her splendor, there was an unmistakable tension in her demeanor. Her golden eyes, so often warm and gentle, now held an urgency that immediately caught Katie's attention. The lines of her face, usually serene, were tight with worry, as though she carried news too pressing to delay.
"Katie," Clytie began, her melodic voice tinged with hesitation. "I'm sorry to disturb your break, but we have an issue. The colossus... it's missing an essential piece for its core."
Katie straightened, a wave of apprehension washing over her. Her hands instinctively tightened around the frisbee as her serene features shifted into a frown.
"An essential piece?" She echoed. "This feels... like a Quest."
The word hung heavily in the air, dredging up memories of a past life she thought she had left behind when she became a Dryad.
Clytie nodded, her expression sympathetic but firm. "It is, in a way. Katie, I know how this feels for you. I know what it dredges up. But your past, your experience as a Half-blood... that's exactly why you're the best candidate for this."
Katie exhaled sharply, her reluctance evident.
"I thought I left that life behind." She muttered, lowering her gaze to Brick, who gazed back at her with an uncanny attentiveness. "Why me, Clytie? There are so many of us here who could do this."
Clytie stepped closer, placing a gentle, green hand on Katie's arm. "Because you've faced challenges like this before, and you've overcome them. You're not just Andi's lieutenant. You're someone who knows how to navigate the dangers this mission will bring."
Katie sighed, her shoulders slumping. "I'm not sure I'm ready to take on something like this again."
Brick, sensing her turmoil, sprouted a pair of pseudopods and gently patted her cheeks with them. His comforting touch, coupled with his exaggerated toothy grin, drew a reluctant smile from Katie.
"Alright, alright." She said, brushing a hand against his pot-like surface. "We'll handle this together."
Clytie's lips curved into a small smile of relief. "Thank you, Katie."
Katie straightened, her gown shimmering in the sunlight as she squared her shoulders.
"Fine." She said, still hesitant but resolved. "What do we need?"
Katie clutched Brick tightly to her chest, the Mimic's flower-pot form nestled against her arms, his pseudopods gripping her for dear life. Her pine tree tree-self, magically miniaturized to fit snugly in Brick's pot, swayed precariously with each lurch of the cab. She could swear she felt the pot shudder in sync with her own nerves as the Gray Sisters' taxi jolted and careened wildly through the chaotic streets of New York City.
The vehicle, a yellow cab woven out of swirling smoke, screeched between lanes, magically shrinking to slip between gaps no larger than a bicycle and then expanding again to barrel down crowded avenues. Chains clattered ominously where seat belts should have been, and the cracked, lumpy seats did nothing to soften the nauseating ride. Katie's gown of emerald silk, its delicate layers flowing like water, was crushed awkwardly under the blackened chains as she held herself steady.
"Let me steer, Pemphredo! You nearly hit that fire hydrant!" One of the Gray Sisters barked, her bony hands clawing at the wheel.
"I am perfectly capable!" Pemphredo snapped, her grizzled hair falling over her face as she clutched the steering wheel.
"You can't steer without the eye!" Persis screeched, snatching the bloodshot green orb from her sister and shoving it into her own sunken socket. She blinked hungrily at the world, as if trying to take in every detail at once. The cab lurched violently to the left, narrowly avoiding a hot dog cart.
"If you've got the eye, then give me the tooth, Persis!" Deino, the third sister, cried, her skeletal hand thrust out expectantly toward the mossy yellow incisor clenched in Persis' mouth. Her tone held an air of desperation, as though that single tooth were the key to bringing order to the swirling chaos around them.
"No, it's my turn!" Persis snapped, gripping the wheel and swerving sharply around a bus. Katie was flung into the side door, Brick letting out a muffled, disgruntled growl as his flower-pot form rattled in her arms.
Mentally, Katie cursed Clytie.
Why did it have to be the Gray Sisters? She thought, her brunette hair spilling over her face with each lurch of the cab. Clytie could've sent me anywhere to start this not-Quest! Consulting these lunatics was madness!
The sisters continued bickering as the cab miraculously weaved through traffic at breakneck speed. Each turn left Katie gripping the cracked seat with one hand while cradling Brick with the other. Despite the utter chaos, she couldn't help but notice that Brick had tightened his pseudopods around her protectively. His surface rippled slightly, his usual mischievous demeanor replaced with an unusual stillness.
"Watch the hydrant!" Katie screamed as the taxi veered toward the curb.
"Hydrant? What hydrant?" Pemphredo asked, snatching the eye back and jamming it into her own socket. She blinked rapidly as if trying to catch up on everything she had missed. "Oh, that hydrant!"
The taxi shrank just in time to squeeze through the space between the hydrant and a parked van, leaving only a plume of smoke in its wake. Katie's heart pounded as she braced for the next calamity.
Finally, after another harrowing few minutes, the cab jolted to a stop in front of Grand Central Station with a bone-jarring screech. Katie barely had time to recover before Deino leaned back, her currently toothless mouth curling into a smirk.
"To find the heart of ancient whispers-" Deino rasped, her voice grating like gravel grinding against metal, each word dragging through the air with an unsettling weight. Her skeletal frame shuddered slightly as she spoke, the jagged edges of her bony fingers twitching as though compelled by the power of the words themselves.
"Seek the rider where shadows sleep-" Pemphredo added, her single green eye glinting with a voracious intensity, as though it could devour the very world it beheld. The hunger in her gaze was almost palpable, a force unto itself that seemed to pierce through the air, commanding attention and leaving an unsettling chill in its wake.
"Beyond the hollow's end, a guide awaits," Persis concluded, her voice dripping with glee as her cackling echoed through the dim air. She clutched the mossy-yellow tooth tightly in her bony hand, the jagged edges of her fingers curling around it possessively
Katie blinked, her mind racing to make sense of their cryptic words.
"What does that even-" She began, but before she could finish, the taxi door swung open, and she was unceremoniously shoved out onto the curb. Brick jostled against her chest, his pseudopods flailing to steady himself, and her magically miniaturized tree-self wobbled precariously in the pot.
The door slammed shut behind her with an eerie finality, and the smoky cab vanished into the traffic with a puff of black mist, leaving Katie standing there, stunned, in the swirling chaos of New York City.
Stunned, Katie sat on the cold pavement, her emerald gown pooling around her in disarray. Brick wriggled free of her arms and patted her face with a comforting pseudopod.
"Thanks, Brick." She muttered, brushing herself off and rising to her feet. The cryptic message from the Gray Sisters repeated in her mind like a riddle she couldn't quite piece together.
"To find the heart of ancient whispers... shadows sleep... the hollow's end..." Her gaze drifted to the bustling city around her. Then it clicked. Sleepy Hollow. A place of shadows and legends.
"Well," Katie sighed, tucking a strand of her long brunette hair behind her ear, the sunlight catching the soft waves as she did. "Looks like we're heading to Sleepy Hollow."
Brick let out a soft, encouraging growl, his pseudopods wriggling in readiness, as if preparing to face whatever challenges awaited them.
Katie glanced down at her Mimic companion, her lips curving into a warm smile. Straightening her posture, she turned toward the station ahead. The rhythmic clatter of an approaching train echoed faintly in the distance. It was time to begin the next leg of their journey.
Katie's pulse quickened as the muffled sound of hoofbeats reached her ears, echoing through the dim, shadowy woods of Sleepy Hollow. The oppressive quiet of the forest heightened every noise, each crack of a twig underfoot or rustle of leaves seeming unnaturally loud. Her heart pounded in time with the rhythm of the approaching steps, and she tightened her grip on Brick. The Mimic's flower pot form sat snugly in her arms, his pseudopods coiled protectively around her wrist and his sides bristling slightly as though sensing her unease. The diminutive form of her tree-self rested safely within Brick's pot, a silent companion to their shared anxiety.
Could it really be him? Katie's thoughts raced. The Gray Sisters had sent her here, and everything about the eerie setting screamed of legends. Her breath hitched as the stories of the Headless Horseman flitted through her mind, and with them came a growing apprehension. A confrontation with the fabled figure, or worse, an altercation that could spark cross-pantheon hostilities, was the last thing she needed. Reporting such an incident to Andi would be a nightmare. Not just because of the political repercussions but because it would ruin the surprise of the colossus project.
Despite her trepidation, Katie pressed forward. Her soft emerald gown swayed with each step, its embroidery catching faint glimmers of moonlight filtering through the dense canopy above. She trusted the Gray Sisters' guidance, strange and cryptic as it was. There had to be a reason she was here. The hoofbeats grew louder, and Katie steeled herself, her long brunette hair cascading over her shoulders as she adjusted her grip on Brick and cautiously made her way toward the sound.
As she emerged into a small clearing, her breath caught. Standing in the dappled light was not the Headless Horseman but a centaur. Katie froze, her chest tightening as she took him in. His tousled mane of wavy hair seemed to glint in the soft light, and his piercing eyes, a mesmerizing blend of green and gold, held a warmth that belied his wild appearance. He was shirtless, revealing a lean, well-defined torso that seemed sculpted by the gods themselves. The deep chestnut sheen of his equine half gleamed with health and strength, a perfect complement to the sunlit tones of his skin. A short bow rested at his side, and saddle bags were draped across his powerful back.
Katie's heart skipped a beat, a reaction that confused her. She had never found herself drawn to someone with four legs, but there was something undeniably captivating about him.
He looks... so... yummy.
The thought came unbidden, and she mentally chastised herself. It wasn't merely his appearance; it was the effortless confidence in his posture and the quiet strength that seemed to radiate from him. She reminded herself that centaurs, unlike humans or most nature spirits, could endure colder temperatures with ease and didn't require clothing for warmth. But honestly, going around shirtless when he looked like that? Surely, it should be considered some kind of crime.
The centaur's eyes flickered as he noticed her, taking in her tense posture and the Mimic in her arms. His expression softened, his curiosity evident.
"Are you lost?" He asked, his voice a smooth blend of curiosity and subtle hesitation.
Katie felt a warmth rise to her cheeks under his gaze but quickly composed herself.
"I'm Katie," she said, offering a slight nod. "I'm on a mission to find something important."
The centaur's expression shifted, interest flickering across his face.
"A mission?" He echoed. "That sounds serious." His lips curved into a genuine smile, though a hint of nervousness lingered in his posture. "I'm Theron. If you need help, I might know where to start."
Katie's heart fluttered at his name, a reaction that made her even more wary.
"I'd appreciate that." She said cautiously, her voice tinged with uncertainty.
Theron tilted his head, his gaze steady. "So, what are you looking for?"
Katie hesitated, glancing at Brick, whose pseudopods gave her a reassuring pat. Taking a deep breath, she said, "I'm looking for a piece of the heartwood of an oak from the Grove of Dodona. It's rare, powerful, and carries Lady Rhea's essence and protective energy." She paused, debating how much to reveal, but decided honesty was the best course. "We need it for a secret weapon to help Lady Andromeda turn the tide in the war against Gaea. The Gray Sisters sent me here, but I'm not sure what to look for."
Theron's eyes narrowed thoughtfully as he processed her words. Katie felt a pang of doubt. Had she said too much? What if he was an enemy? She cursed herself silently. Get it together, Katie. Stop letting your sudden... attraction cloud your judgment.
After a moment, Theron spoke. "If you need directions, you should find Hecate's Crossroads. You work for Lady Andromeda, right?"
Katie nodded slowly, her mind racing.
"Well," he continued, "Lady Hecate is Lady Andromeda's matron. If anyone can help you, it's her. She'd surely point you in the right direction." He smiled again, his confidence returning. "I can show you the way."
Katie blinked, a mix of surprise and relief flooding her. His knowledge of her goddess and willingness to assist eased her tension, though the fluttering in her chest remained.
"Why does Lady Hecate have a sacred place in Sleepy Hollow?" She asked, her curiosity piqued.
Theron gestured to the surrounding woods. "This place has a strange pull, doesn't it? The locals tell stories of shadows and legends, and modern witches are drawn here because of it. Some see it as a minor pilgrimage site. They leave offerings, hoping to connect with her. It's one of those places where the veil between worlds feels... thinner."
Katie nodded thoughtfully. It made sense, and her apprehension began to give way to determination.
"Lead the way." She said, her voice steady.
Theron smiled, his confidence infectious.
"This way." He said, turning to guide her deeper into the woods.
As Katie followed, her heart remained cautious but intrigued. The soft fabric of her gown rustled with each step, the embroidered vines catching the faint moonlight. Brick wiggled in her arms, his pseudopods tightening their grip as if to reassure her. Together, they ventured into the unknown, the dim woods of Sleepy Hollow holding both promise and peril.
Katie and Theron moved quietly through the dense woods, the leaves underfoot muffling their steps and the occasional beam of moonlight piercing through the thick canopy above. Katie held Brick close, the familiar weight of her Mimic companion comforting her as she navigated the unfamiliar terrain. His flower pot form rested snugly in her arms, the edges of his surface warm against her skin. The miniature version of her tree-self nestled safely within, its vibrant green needles peeking out from the pot.
The silence between them was gentle, broken only by the rustling of leaves and the faint sounds of nocturnal creatures in the distance. Katie found herself stealing secretive glances at Theron, her curiosity piqued by the ease with which he moved through the forest. His human torso, lean and sculpted, carried an effortless grace that belied his imposing strength. The deep chestnut sheen of his equine half seemed to glow faintly in the pale light, complementing the tousled mane of wavy hair that framed his face and caught the moonlight with every movement.
Katie's pulse quickened each time she managed to catch his profile, and she wondered if he noticed her glances. More than once, she thought she saw him shooting his own fleeting glances at her, but he always looked away before she could be certain. The thought left her simultaneously flustered and amused.
Breaking the quiet, Katie asked, "What are you doing in Sleepy Hollow, Theron?"
Theron patted his saddle bags with a casual grin, the glint in his green-and-gold eyes betraying his amusement. "I'm a herbalist. I'm here to collect herbs."
Katie raised an eyebrow, her voice teasingly skeptical. "Alone?"
Theron shrugged, his nonchalant demeanor belied by a flicker of hesitation.
"I'm a bit of a loner." He admitted, his smile taking on a self-deprecating edge.
Katie's emerald silk gown swayed as she adjusted her hold on Brick, her long brunette hair cascading softly down her back. Her lips curled into a playful smile.
"Is that why you're out here by yourself?" She teased.
An embarrassed chuckle escaped Theron as he rubbed the back of his neck. "Well, I actually just couldn't convince anyone in my herd to come with me."
Katie's expression softened with amusement, her youthful features glowing in the moonlight. "And you still came? Alone? During the Gigantomachy?"
Theron's sheepish smile returned.
"I needed the herbs." He said simply, as though that explained everything.
Brick's pseudopods wiggled slightly against Katie's arms, as if sharing in her amusement. Katie giggled, shaking her head. "You're a brave one, I'll give you that."
Theron, trying to deflect the attention, gave her a mischievous grin. "You know, I've got stories that would make even the bravest centaur think twice. You want to hear them?"
Katie suppressed a laugh, recognizing his attempt to change the subject.
"Sure." She said, playing along.
Theron's smile widened. "Well, let's see… Which one… Ah! I know! How about the time I ran into a group of Pixies that mistook me for a moving buffet."
Katie raised an eyebrow, feigning intrigue. "Pixies? Let me guess, they weren't after your herbs."
He laughed, the sound warm and infectious. "Nope. They wanted the apples I had stashed. I ended up sacrificing my lunch just to get away."
Katie chuckled, her voice light and musical. "So, you're saying your biggest enemies are Pixies and angry Dryads? Good to know."
Theron's easy demeanor faltered slightly as he looked at her, puzzled. "Dryads? What made you think I was any kind of enemy with Dryads?"
Katie's eyes sparkled mischievously as she grinned. "You were eating apples! For apple tree Dryads, those are basically their kids. Of course they'd see you as their enemy."
Theron's expression shifted to one of sheepish realization. "Huh. I never thought of it like that... I guess you're right. But aren't apples supposed to be eaten? To disperse their seeds and all that?"
Katie giggled, leaning slightly closer. "Oh, right~! I must've forgotten."
Theron leaned in as well, a playful glint in his eye. "So, I guess I'm not an enemy to Dryads, am I?"
Katie bumped his arm lightly, her emerald gown shimmering faintly in the moonlight. "No, I guess not."
Theron smirked, holding her gaze for a moment longer than necessary. "Good, because I'd hate to be on the wrong side of a Dryad like you."
Katie's cheeks warmed, but her smile widened. "Oh, trust me, Theron, you wouldn't stand a chance if you were."
He chuckled, leaning back with a mock sigh of relief. "Noted. I'll make sure to stay on your good side. Honestly, if I'd known I'd end up with such dangerous company, I might have thought twice before agreeing to come along."
Katie smirked, the playful banter bringing a slight flush to her cheeks. "Oh, I think you knew exactly what you were getting into."
He chuckled softly, his piercing eyes meeting hers for a lingering moment before he turned his gaze back to the path. The woods echoed with a comfortable silence, broken only by the rustle of leaves and the occasional shared glance.
Brick wriggled slightly in her arms, his pseudopods shifting as if to remind Katie of his presence. She smiled down at him, grateful for his unwavering companionship. As the path ahead twisted and turned, Katie felt a growing sense of ease, her earlier anxieties momentarily forgotten in the warmth of their shared company.
Katie and Theron moved steadily through the dense woods, the air growing chillier as the night deepened. Katie held Brick close against her chest, the familiar weight of his pot and the occasional twitch of his pseudopods offering her a small measure of comfort. Her long brunette hair fell in soft waves down her back, catching the dim light that filtered through the treetops. Her emerald silk gown, flowing like liquid grace with each step, shimmered faintly in the moonlight. The delicate embroidery of leaves and vines seemed to glimmer with an almost ethereal glow, harmonizing perfectly with the mystical atmosphere of the forest.
After a time, the forest opened into a glade. Shadows danced around them, cast by an eerie, otherworldly glow that seemed to emanate from the very ground. The air felt different here. It was charged with energy, as though the very essence of magic permeated this space. Katie felt a shiver run down her spine as she looked around, sensing the immense power that surrounded them.
They stepped cautiously into a glade, the surrounding forest already cloaked in the deep indigo hues of night. The moon hung low in the sky, its pale light filtering through the branches above and mingling with the eerie glow emanating from the clearing. Shadows shifted and danced around them, creating an almost otherworldly ambiance. Katie's pulse quickened as she felt the undeniable hum of magic in the air. This was Hecate's Crossroads.
Her gown of emerald silk shimmered faintly in the moonlight, the intricate embroidery of leaves and vines catching the subtle illumination. Brick, nestled in her arms in his flower-pot form, vibrated slightly, his pseudopods curling inward as though sensing the tension. Katie felt her own nerves mirror his. She could feel the power in this place, ancient and potent, wrapping around her like a second skin.
Theron stepped up beside her, his piercing green-and-gold eyes scanning the glade. The sleek muscles of his equine half flexed with every movement, the chestnut sheen of his coat gleaming faintly in the supernatural light. His human torso, bare to the elements as always, was silhouetted against the eerie glow, exuding effortless strength and grace.
"This place," he murmured, his voice hushed with awe. "It feels alive."
Before Katie could respond, a burst of flames erupted at the center of the glade. Red, green, and blue flames, twisted and coiled together like living entities. When the light faded, Hecate stood before them, her presence commanding and otherworldly. Draped in robes that shimmered like liquid starlight, the goddess exuded an aura of authority that made even the air around her feel heavier. Her three faces - maiden, mother, and crone - flickered briefly before settling into a single visage that seemed to pierce straight into Katie's soul.
"You have come." Hecate said, her voice resonating like a chime in the silence.
Katie bowed her head respectfully, her long brunette hair cascading over her shoulders as she gathered her courage.
"Lady Hecate," she began, her voice steady despite the weight of the moment. "I have come seeking heartwood from the Grove of Dodona. We need it to complete a weapon for Lady Andromeda, one that is essential to the war against Gaea."
Hecate's gaze remained inscrutable, her features a mask of timeless wisdom and power.
"The Grove of Dodona," she said slowly, her voice both a statement and an echo. "Its heartwood is a rare gift, imbued with the essence of Rhea herself. Yet, the Grove lies beyond even my sight."
Katie's heart sank at the goddess's words, but she remained silent, waiting for Hecate to continue.
"However," Hecate said, her tone shifting slightly, "there is a place where the answers you seek may be found. The Mist Font at the Whispering Peaks. It will guide you."
Theron, who had been standing quietly beside Katie, suddenly perked up. His eyes lit with recognition, a spark of excitement flickering in their green-and-gold depths.
"The Whispering Peaks," he said, turning to Katie. "That's Black Mountain. I know where it is."
Katie looked at him, relief washing over her at his words. She shifted Brick slightly in her arms, the Mimic's pseudopods twitching as if sensing the change in mood.
"You're sure?" She asked, her voice laced with cautious hope.
Theron nodded confidently. "Positive. I can guide you there."
Hecate's gaze shifted between the two of them, her expression unreadable.
"You must make haste." She said, her voice ringing with finality. "Time is short, and the weapon must be completed soon if it is to play its part in the final battle. Delay will cost you dearly."
Katie straightened, her youthful face set in determination as she met the goddess's gaze.
"Thank you, Lady Hecate." She said, bowing deeply in respect. The shimmering layers of her gown seemed to ripple with the motion, catching the faint light of the glade. Brick's pseudopods gave a faint wiggle, as if echoing her sentiment.
Theron mirrored Katie's bow, his equine form lowering slightly as he showed his own deference.
"We won't waste time." He promised, his voice resolute.
Hecate's form shimmered briefly, her robes catching the light in one final burst of brilliance before she dissolved into the tri-colored flames once more. The glade fell silent, the eerie glow fading until only the moonlight remained to guide them.
Katie exhaled slowly, the tension in her shoulders easing slightly as she turned to Theron.
"Black Mountain, then," she said, her voice steady but tinged with weariness. "Let's go."
Theron smiled, his usual air of confidence returning as he adjusted the saddle bags draped across his sleek, chestnut-colored equine back. The faint light caught the tousled waves of his mane, adding a touch of charm to his already striking figure.
"Get on," Theron said, gesturing to his back.
"W-What?" Katie stammered, staring at him in disbelief. "You want me to ride you?"
She wanted to die of mortification due to such a statement.
I could have worded that better….
"Well, yeah. How else are we supposed to get to Black Mountain anytime soon?" Theron asked, his tone carrying genuine confusion. "It's pretty far away."
"B-But…" Katie hesitated, her cheeks growing warm as she glanced at him. "Isn't letting someone ride you a sign of deep trust among centaurs?"
"It is. It's usually reserved for either our closest friends or, more commonly, our spouses."
"Sp-Spouses!?" Katie exclaimed, her voice squeaking. "We just met!"
"Don't sweat it." Theron replied with a carefree shrug, his piercing green-and-gold eyes twinkling with amusement. "Me giving you a ride today is just so we don't need to slog cross-country for days. We centaurs can travel fast when we want to, after all. Besides, Lady Hecate said we needed to hurry, didn't she?"
"I know that…" Katie muttered, her voice trailing off.
"Then get on already."
"Y-You sure about this?"
"Positive."
Katie gulped and nodded, stepping forward hesitantly. With Brick nestled securely in her arms, she placed one hand on Theron's muscular human torso for support. The smooth, sunlit tone of his skin contrasted with the powerful chestnut sheen of his equine body beneath her. Carefully, she swung a leg over his back, her gown pooling around her as she settled into position. The gentle warmth radiating from his body eased her nerves slightly, though her heart still raced with uncertainty.
"You good?" Theron asked, glancing over his shoulder.
"Y-Yes…" Katie replied, though the idea of what this act traditionally meant among centaurs still lingered heavily in her mind.
"Okay, then hang on tight. It's gonna be a long ride."
With that, Theron broke into a gallop. The sudden surge of speed left Katie gasping, her instincts taking over as she flung her arms tightly around his torso. Her grip, firm yet trembling, pressed her body flush against his back, the sheer force of his stride compelling her to cling with all her might to avoid being thrown off. The heat of his skin radiated through her palms, her fingers gripping the defined musculature of his human torso, while the powerful movements of his equine half beneath her underscored the raw strength of his form.
The closeness was both thrilling and utterly mortifying. Her cheeks flushed a deep crimson as she became painfully aware of just how tightly she was holding him, especially the way her breasts were pressed against his firm, muscular back. The realization sent a fresh surge of embarrassment coursing through her, making her heart race even faster than before.
Could he feel that? Surely, he could. Right!? The thought sent her mind spiraling.
But his back feels so strong… And the power in his equine body… She thought helplessly, her inner turmoil only amplified by the unrelenting pace of their ride.
The shimmering embroidery of her emerald gown danced wildly in the rushing wind, the intricate patterns of leaves and vines catching the fleeting light, sparkling like stars against the blurred backdrop of the forest. The dazzling display mirrored the storm of her thoughts, which spiraled uncontrollably between awe and mortification. Her mind raced, the sheer closeness to Theron overwhelming her senses, until she became so lost in her swirling emotions that her grip began to loosen.
Had it not been for Brick, she might have slipped from her precarious position. Ever dependable, her Mimic familiar swiftly extended his pseudopods, wrapping them securely around both Katie and Theron. The tendrils coiled tightly, anchoring them firmly to the centaur's powerful frame. The protective cocoon created by Brick's quick action ensured neither she nor her familiar would be thrown from the breakneck pace at which they raced forward, the world around them dissolving into a blur of speed and sound.
Theron galloped with unrelenting pace, the rhythmic pounding of his hooves creating a steady, thunderous cadence that echoed through the misty forest. The surrounding world transformed into a whirlwind of green and gray streaks, the trees melting into indistinct shapes as the wind rushed past, carrying with it the earthy, primal scent of the woods. Katie pressed herself tighter against Theron, her heart racing in sync with his gallop, torn between the fear of the ride and the undeniable thrill of being so close to him.
The forest of Sleepy Hollow became a whirlwind of shadows and light as Theron raced through it, the rhythmic pounding of his hooves creating a steady, almost hypnotic cadence. Katie buried her face against his back, her long brunette hair streaming out behind her like a banner. Every muscle in Theron's powerful equine frame rippled with energy, his movements so smooth and fluid that Katie felt both exhilarated and terrified.
Brick's pseudopods held firm, their familiar grip grounding her in the chaos of the ride as they hurtled through the misty woods toward Black Mountain and the next stage of their mission. Despite the breakneck pace, Katie couldn't help but feel a strange mix of awe and gratitude for Theron's strength and the trust he had placed in her.
Katie and Theron approached Black Mountain under the pale light of a crescent moon, its silvery glow stretching elongated shadows across the dense forested landscape. Though the journey had been uneventful, Katie found her legs wobbling slightly with each step, her body still adjusting to the aftermath of her first experience riding horseback. The relentless, rhythmic pounding of Theron's gallop had left her muscles aching and her balance precariously off-kilter, though she made a concerted effort to mask her discomfort, unwilling to show weakness.
There was no time for weakness now. She was on a mission! Besides, she couldn't bear the thought of appearing vulnerable in front of Theron. Steeling herself, Katie pushed aside her discomfort and turned her focus to the scene before her, a sight that sent a chill coursing down her spine. The mountain rose ominously into the sky, shrouded in a thick bank of Mist that writhed and twisted like a living thing, its undulating movements both mesmerizing and menacing. Clutching Brick tightly to her chest, she felt the reassuring pressure of his flower-pot form against her arms. His pseudopods coiled gently but securely around her fingers, their touch a silent gesture of comfort that grounded her, even as the strange Mist seemed to watch them with an eerie, unseen presence.
Her emerald gown shimmered faintly even in the dim light, its intricate embroidery glinting with an almost magical quality. Her long brunette hair cascaded over her shoulders, the strands swaying slightly with the cool night breeze. Theron, walking beside her, exuded calm confidence, his sculpted torso glistening faintly with a light sheen of sweat from the trek. His equine body moved with an effortless grace that Katie couldn't help but admire.
"This must be it," Theron said, his voice low and steady, though his eyes flickered with intrigue as he surveyed the Mist. "Looks like a Mist Font alright."
Katie nodded, her pulse quickening as she stepped closer to the swirling fog. The air grew colder, and she felt a strange energy prickling against her skin. As they ventured into the Mist, it enveloped them completely, forming a maze of shifting illusions. The ground beneath them felt treacherous, as though it might give way at any moment.
Shimmering lights danced just out of reach, their fleeting brilliance luring Katie's gaze. Whispers drifted through the air, voices that sounded hauntingly familiar.
"Katie…" A voice murmured, soft and alluring.
She froze, her heart hammering in her chest. It sounded like Andi. She glanced at Theron, who looked at her with a sharp, concerned expression.
"Don't listen." He warned. His piercing green-and-gold eyes locked onto hers, grounding her. "It's trying to trick you."
Katie nodded, swallowing hard. She pressed Brick closer, the Mimic tightening his grip on her arms as if sensing her unease.
"Thanks." She muttered, forcing herself to focus on the path ahead.
They pushed forward, weaving through the labyrinthine Mist. At one point, the terrain appeared to shift. Rocky outcroppings rose abruptly, blocking their way, only to dissolve into vapor when they pressed on. Towering trees twisted grotesquely, their gnarled branches reaching for Katie like skeletal hands. She shivered, her gown swaying as she quickened her pace.
Despite the eerie surroundings, Katie found herself stealing glances at Theron. His mane of wavy hair glinted faintly in the pale light, and his muscular form seemed unaffected by the chill. She noticed how his jaw tightened as he navigated the terrain, a subtle display of determination that she found oddly comforting.
More than once, she thought she caught Theron glancing at her in return. Each time, he averted his gaze before she could confirm it, leaving her both flustered and intrigued.
"Do you think this is the right way?" Katie asked after a long silence, her voice breaking through the oppressive quiet.
Theron tilted his head, his ears twitching slightly. "I think so. We're looking for the Mist Font, and the Mist is definitely getting thicker, so we should be on the right track. Just keep moving. These illusions can't last forever."
Katie nodded, though her nerves refused to settle. She could feel the weight of the Mist pressing down on her, its whispers growing louder.
Suddenly, ghostly warriors emerged from the fog. Their ethereal forms flickered, shifting between solid and vaporous states. Each warrior bore distinctive features of Native American heritage, their solemn expressions filled with a haunting intensity. They carried spectral weapons - spears, staffs, and bows - that seemed both tangible and part of the Mist itself.
Katie's breath hitched as the warriors formed a semicircle around them. Brick let out a low, guttural growl, his flower-pot form shifting as his jagged teeth emerged. Pseudopods lashed out in warning, though he remained nestled in Katie's arms.
Theron instinctively reached for his short bow, his powerful equine body tensing as he prepared for a fight.
"Stay close." He murmured, his voice low but steady. "These are the-"
One of the warriors stepped forward, their form more distinct than the others. Their piercing eyes shifted to Theron, silencing him with a single look before settling on Katie. As their gaze bore into her, she was struck by a profound wave of sorrow and resolve, an unspoken burden that seemed to ripple through the very air between them.
"Why do you disturb the sacred Mist?" The warrior asked, their voice resonant and otherworldly.
Katie hesitated, clutching Brick tightly. She glanced at Theron, who nodded subtly, urging her to speak.
"We seek the Mist Font," Katie said, her voice firm despite the trembling in her hands. "We need its guidance to find the Grove of Dodona."
The leader of the spectral warriors before her, narrowed his glowing eyes.
"Turn back." He commanded, his voice resonating with an unearthly timbre that seemed to echo through the very air. "Your cause may be noble, but it is not noble enough. We will not permit you to access the sacred Font for such a trifling reason."
Katie's jaw clenched, her youthful appearance belying the determination in her gaze. Her long brunette hair framed her face, cascading down her back as she stepped forward.
"I'm sorry to hear that," she replied, her tone resolute. "But I can't accept that. Out of our way."
Theron, standing beside her, adjusted his short bow, the polished wood glinting faintly in the dim light. His chestnut equine body shifted, muscles rippling with tension.
"Katie, you sure about this?" He asked warily, his green-and-gold eyes flicking between her and the spectral warriors.
Katie nodded, summoning thick roots and vines from the forest floor with a wave of her hand. The vibrant energy radiating from her tree-self in Brick's pot amplified her magic, causing the ground to tremble as tendrils coiled defensively. "Lady Hecate sent us here. We're meant to get the knowledge we need."
Theron sighed, his tousled mane catching the faint light as he nocked an arrow. "If you say so."
The leader of the specters raised his spear, the spectral tip glowing faintly.
"You will have to defeat us to reach the Font." He declared. "Prove yourself worthy of the knowledge you seek."
Katie didn't hesitate. Brick's pseudopods lashed out like whips, their speed and ferocity belying the unassuming flower pot he appeared to be. Some strikes landed true, sending visible ripples through the misty forms of the spirits, while others passed harmlessly through their ethereal bodies. The inconsistency was frustrating, but it didn't deter her; Brick's relentless attacks were enough to keep the spirits at bay, preventing them from closing in.
Meanwhile, the protective barrier of roots and vines Katie had summoned earlier stood firm, shielding her from the spirits' attacks and providing a vital buffer. Her brow furrowed as she studied the ghostly silhouettes, frustration mingling with confusion. These beings were unlike any she'd encountered before. Their spectral forms were unfamiliar, and she couldn't begin to place them or guess their purpose. The question burned in her mind: who were they, and why were they here?
Even as Katie hunkered behind her floral bulwark, Theron dashed across the battlefield with the effortless grace of his kind, his powerful equine body moving like a shadow through the swirling mist. The deep chestnut sheen of his flanks gleamed faintly in what little light pierced the fog, a striking contrast against the spectral chaos around them. His hooves barely seemed to touch the ground as he moved, loosing arrow after arrow into the ranks of spirits.
Half of his shots struck true, causing the spectral warriors to waver and ripple as the arrows disrupted their ethereal forms. The others, however, simply vanished into the mist, swallowed whole without effect, leaving Theron undeterred as he pressed forward, his sharp gaze seeking out the next target.
"They're Nunnehi," Theron called out, narrowly dodging the thrust of a spectral spear. His piercing green-and-gold eyes locked onto Katie as he explained, "Spirit guardians from Cherokee legends. They protect Black Mountain and the Mist Font. They test all those who would seek it out."
Katie ducked instinctively as a spectral blade sliced through her floral barrier, whistling perilously close above her. Her heart raced, the near miss a stark reminder of the stakes. Without hesitation, she summoned a tangle of new vines to seal the breach, their verdant coils weaving quickly to fortify her defenses.
Brick, ever unpredictable, surged into action with renewed ferocity. His pseudopods morphed into grotesque, fang-filled maws that snapped violently at the advancing spirits, their movements wild and relentless. Occasionally, he spat globs of sizzling acid, the corrosive substance hissing as it made contact with the Nunnehi. The spirits recoiled at the attacks, their forms rippling with distress. The brief reprieve gave Katie a moment to steady herself, her breath coming in short bursts as she concentrated on expanding and strengthening the protective barrier around her.
"Do they have to test us through battle?" Katie asked incredulously, her voice tinged with exasperation. With a thought, she directed her tree-self, nestled safely within Brick's pot, to grow pine cones, which she launched in rapid succession at the spirits. Some hit their targets, causing the Nunnehi to falter, but others phased through harmlessly, adding to her mounting frustration.
"They choose their trials," Theron replied, weaving through the battlefield. His arrows forced the Nunnehi to scatter, disrupting their formation. "Looks like they're in a fighting mood today."
Katie rolled her eyes and summoned a wave of razor-sharp leaves from her tree-self's canopy, firing them with precision.
"Great!" She muttered as the leaves struck some spirits while slipping harmlessly through others. "Just perfect! Andi's going to have my head for getting into a fight with monsters from another pantheon. Maybe I'll just say I got lost and wandered into this mess by mistake?"
Theron glanced her way, a grin playing at his lips. "Might work. Just tell her you were checking on the local Dryads."
The Nunnehi, clearly displeased with the course of the battle, retaliated by summoning swirling Mist. The haze thickened, creating duplicates of the spirits that moved and attacked in perfect synchrony with the originals. Katie gasped as a spectral blade passed close, phasing harmlessly through her arm but leaving her shaken. The sheer number of indistinguishable foes made every move a gamble.
Brick growled, sensing her unease, his surface rippling with agitation. His pseudopods plunged into the ground, tearing up massive chunks of earth that he hurled with ferocious force at the Nunnehi. The heavy projectiles soared through the air, crashing down with earth-shaking impacts. Yet, as before, many passed harmlessly through the incorporeal spirits, leaving Katie grinding her teeth in frustration. The relentless chaos of the battle swirled around her, threatening to pull her focus apart at the seams. Forcing herself to steady her breathing, she closed her eyes and reached inward, drawing on the connection to her tree-self. A faint glow began to emanate from Brick's pot as her tree-self absorbed light, moonlight to be precise, given the night sky. The golden energy wove through her like a soothing tide, pooling within her with a gentle, steady warmth that felt almost golden in its radiance. She felt its warmth spread through her core, steady and grounding, pushing back against the storm of panic.
With a deep inhale, Katie summoned every ounce of the sunlight her tree-self had gathered, feeling it surge within her like a blazing inferno. She exhaled sharply, releasing the energy in a radiant beam of pure solar light. The brilliance erupted from her tree-self, cutting through the oppressive Mist in a sweeping, golden arc. The surrounding haze recoiled and dissolved under the intensity, revealing the true forms of the Nunnehi hidden within. Their ghostly phasing faltered, their ethereal forms solidifying as the concentrated sunlight stripped away their intangible protections. Now exposed and vulnerable, the spirits hesitated, their spectral confidence wavering in the face of Katie's dazzling assault.
Just as they began to gain the upper hand, the Mist parted with an ominous swirl, revealing a massive figure that loomed like a shadow against the forest backdrop. A towering, seven-foot Nunnehi emerged, its spectral form solidifying as it strode forward, wielding a war club so immense it looked as if it had been carved from a single ancient tree. With a bellowing roar, the spirit leapt into the fray, the war club raised high above its head, its trajectory aimed squarely at Katie. The air seemed to thrum with the sheer force of its impending strike.
For a fleeting moment, Katie froze. Her youthful appearance and diminutive frame seemed almost childlike in contrast to the giant spirit bearing down on her, its weapon poised to crush her where she stood. The forest seemed to hold its breath, and even Brick, who rarely hesitated, paused as though assessing the imminent danger. But the hesitation was short-lived. Katie's amber eyes flared with determination, and with a commanding gesture, she slammed her foot into the earth, summoning her innate connection to the forest.
Massive vines erupted from the ground, their thick, sinewy forms twisting upward with astonishing speed. They coiled around the spirit in mid-air, their thorny lengths constricting its movements and halting its descent just feet from Katie. The war club shuddered in its grasp, its impact thwarted as the spirit strained against its newfound bonds. Seizing the opportunity, Theron, loosed a volley of arrows. The projectiles struck true, embedding themselves in the Nunnehi's spectral form and disrupting its shimmering outline with bursts of energy.
Instead of recoiling or showing pain, the massive spirit let out a booming laugh, its deep voice reverberating through the trees and shaking the very ground beneath them. The sound carried a strange mixture of amusement and approval, resonating with an almost primal force.
"Impressive," it rumbled, its glowing eyes narrowing as it scanned the group with a newfound respect. Its voice echoed as if carried by the wind itself. "Your teamwork is admirable. You have proven yourselves worthy."
The Nunnehi dissolved into Mist, retreating into the shadows. Katie let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding, her gown shimmering faintly in the moonlight as she relaxed her stance.
Theron trotted over, his equine form steady and confident.
"Well, that was fun." He said with a grin, his green-and-gold eyes twinkling.
Katie shot him a look, though a small smile tugged at her lips. "If that's your idea of fun, you're insane."
Brick growled in agreement, his pot twitching indignantly.
Theron chuckled. "Come on, Katie. Let's find this Font."
"Yeah," Katie agreed, brushing a strand of her long brunette hair from her face. The soft emerald silk of her gown shimmered faintly as she shifted her weight, its cascading train rippling like water in the dim light. Brick, nestled snugly against her arm in his flower pot form, vibrated slightly as though sensing her anticipation, his smooth exterior belying the jaws and pseudopods he could summon in an instant.
Before they could go anywhere however, an altar shimmered into existence. Its surface glowed faintly, inscribed with runes that pulsed rhythmically, like a heartbeat. Without hesitation, Katie stepped forward, the ethereal embroidery of leaves and vines on her gown catching the light as she moved. She placed her hand on the altar, feeling a faint hum beneath her fingertips. Slowly, modern GPS coordinates materialized across its surface.
Katie squinted at the glowing numbers etched into the altar, frustration bubbling within her. She recognized them as coordinates, her basic navigation training at Camp during her first life made that much clear, but their exact location eluded her. Memorizing them to look up later was a tedious necessity, and the thought made her groan inwardly.
Theron leaned in beside her, his muscular torso close enough that the warmth of his sunlit skin brushed against her senses. The faint shimmer of his deep chestnut flanks caught her eye as he studied the altar with intent.
"These coordinates point to the woods near Camp Half-Blood." He murmured, his voice low with realization. The casual confidence in his tone drew her attention, and she found herself studying him for a moment too long. His wavy mane of hair caught the light with his every movement, and the mischievous warmth in his gaze sent a subtle flutter through her chest.
She snapped out of it, exhaling sharply.
"All this way, just to go back to New York?" She muttered, shaking her head. Her fingers absentmindedly brushed Brick's pot, seeking a sense of stability. Despite her exasperation, a flicker of gratitude warmed her thoughts. Theron's quiet competence, his ease, and the unspoken connection they shared in that moment did not escape her notice.
Theron's easy smile, ever-present despite the trials they faced, softened her mood as he stepped back, the saddlebags draped across his equine back shifting slightly. Katie tucked the coordinates into her thoughts, her mind returning to their next steps. Brick seemed to shift again, his presence a comforting weight against her side, even as he silently cradled her miniature tree-self within.
As they readied themselves to set forth, Katie's thoughts wavered between the task that lay ahead and the inexplicable pull she felt toward Theron. His adventurous charm, tempered by his steadfast presence, seemed to anchor her amidst the uncertainty of their journey, leaving an impression she couldn't quite shake. When he turned to her, wordlessly offering her the chance to mount his back once more, her heart skipped. The path back to New York suddenly felt more daunting, yet inexplicably more promising, than she had anticipated.
One more simultaneously mortifying and exhilarating ride on Theron's back later, Katie walked alongside her centaur friend on the mist-shrouded path through the woods surrounding Camp Half-Blood, her emotions in turmoil. The mist clung to the air, softening the shapes of the trees around them. As a pine tree Dryad with the appearance of a sixteen-year-old girl, Katie moved with a natural grace, the soft emerald silk of her gown flowing like water with each step. The gown's delicate layers shimmered faintly in the muted light, its intricate embroidery of leaves and vines catching the occasional glint of moonlight filtering through the mist. Her long brunette hair swayed gently, framing her youthful features with a warmth that belied her years.
She felt a profound gratitude for Theron's unwavering choice to remain at her side. He had no obligation, no reason to help her on this journey, yet he had stayed. From the moment they had met in Sleepy Hollow, he had supported her in every step of her mission to acquire the heartwood from the Grove of Dodona. The centaur's kindness was beyond words, a quiet reassurance that eased the weight of her task.
And yet, in a way that was both frustratingly wonderful and maddeningly distracting, Theron was a striking figure. His tousled mane of wavy hair seemed to catch even the faintest light, a feature that lent him an effortless charm. He carried himself with a quiet strength, every movement graceful yet powerful. His piercing eyes, a vivid and almost hypnotic blend of green and gold, radiated a warmth that stirred something deep within her. His presence, though comforting, left her vulnerable to an unwelcome tension that coiled tightly in her chest.
Curse her crush on the centaur. She knew exactly what it was, understood it all too well, but self-awareness did little to suppress the feelings. Theron's easy smile, full of confidence and genuine kindness, made it impossible to ignore. It was infuriating how effortlessly he drew her attention, making her heart race even as she fought to keep her emotions in check.
Each stolen glance and softly spoken word seemed to amplify her awareness of him, drawing her thoughts further from where they ought to be. Theron moved effortlessly through the mist, the chestnut sheen of his powerful equine body blending with the natural surroundings as though he belonged there. His saddle bags jostled slightly with each step, a quiet reminder of his practicality amidst her growing disarray.
Just when Katie's heartbeat threatened to spiral out of control, Brick, the nondescript flower pot-shaped Mimic she carried, extended a pseudopod. The touch was light but firm as he patted her cheek, sending a calming pulse through her. Brick's, otherwise unassuming flowerpot form, held her magically miniaturized tree-self - a young, vibrant, two-meter-tall pine. The familiar's quiet intervention grounded her, pulling her back from the whirlwind of emotions threatening to overwhelm her.
Katie exhaled slowly, offering a silent thanks to Brick. As she did, Theron turned his gaze toward her, his brow furrowing slightly with concern. His voice, steady and rich, broke the quiet. "Are you alright?"
Heat rushed to Katie's cheeks as she met his eyes, their golden-green hue catching the dim light and sending her heart racing anew. She quickly nodded, forcing a small smile that she hoped would mask her flustered state.
"I'm fine." She replied hastily, though her voice carried a faint tremor she prayed he wouldn't notice. The words spilled out faster than intended, betraying her struggle to sound composed.
Turning her gaze away, she focused on the mist-shrouded path ahead, inhaling deeply to steady herself. The shimmering folds of her gown caught the light as she moved, an elegant facade that belied the storm of nerves inside her chest. With renewed resolve, she dared a glance back at Theron, grateful for the grounding presence of Brick and determined to keep her feelings from showing further.
Suddenly, the mist around them thickened abruptly, changing in an instant. At first, it had been ordinary, thin and passive, lazily clinging to the trees and curling softly around their legs. Yet, as they pressed further along the path, the fog grew heavier, its texture shifting subtly at first, then unmistakably. The once natural haze transformed into something far more foreboding, denser and more opaque, until it enveloped them in swirling banks of magical Mist that seemed imbued with a life of its own.
The change was tangible. The air turned damp and oppressive, each breath carrying a faint, earthy scent that spoke of ancient places untouched by time. The Mist moved with an eerie, deliberate grace, coiling and shifting like a sentient being, creating an atmosphere thick with unspoken power. It was as if they had stepped across an invisible threshold into a realm not entirely of this world, a place steeped in mystery and otherworldly energy.
"We're at the coordinates?" Katie asked, her voice tinged with caution as her gaze darted through the impenetrable fog.
"Yeah." Theron replied with a nod, his green-and-gold eyes narrowing as the Mist began to dissipate.
As the veil lifted, it revealed a hauntingly ethereal forest, shrouded in a perpetual bank of Mist that clung to the gnarled trees like an ancient secret. Towering trees with twisted, blackened branches dominated the landscape. Scattered throughout the grove hung wind chimes of varying shapes and sizes, crafted from wood, metal, and stone. They swayed gently despite the still air, their eerie, melodic tones blending into a hauntingly beautiful harmony. The whispered notes seemed almost alive, weaving together in a way that suggested the grove itself was speaking, its voice imbued with ancient wisdom and the weight of untold millennia.
The ground underfoot was blanketed with thick, spongy moss, its vibrant green interrupted only by the faint glow of phosphorescent fungi clustered around the tree roots. The fungi pulsed softly, casting an otherworldly hue across the forest floor, while faint tendrils of Mist curled and lingered around them. It was a place where time felt suspended, where every sound, every sight, seemed steeped in the echoes of forgotten prophecies and long-lost lore.
Katie exhaled slowly, her long brunette hair shimmering faintly in the diffuse light as her emerald gown rippled with her movement. Brick stirred in her arms, his pot trembling slightly as if sensing the forest's ancient power.
"Welcome to the Grove of Dodona, Katie Gardner, Dryad Lieutenant of Andromeda Aurae, and Theron the centaur." The Grove of Dodona sang, their voices rising and falling in a harmonious chorus.
"Thank you for allowing us into your depths." Katie said, her voice soft but steady as she offered the Grove a deep bow. Her emerald silk gown shimmered faintly in the phosphorescent glow of the fungi, the intricate embroidery of leaves and vines catching the ethereal light. Brick trembled slightly in her arms, his pot vibrating in rhythm with the Grove's haunting melody.
The towering trees swayed in unison, their branches creaking in time with their resonant voices.
"You seek a piece of our heartwood?" The Grove asked, their words carried on the wind, shaped by the rustling of leaves and the rhythmic chime of hanging ornaments.
"Yes," Katie replied, bowing once more, her long brunette hair falling over her shoulder. "The nature spirits wish to aid our goddess, Andromeda Aurae, in the coming battles of the Gigantomachy. To do so, we wish to construct a secret weapon, and to complete it, we require a piece of your heartwood."
The Grove paused, their song dipping into a low, contemplative hum.
"We are willing to offer you what you seek," they replied, their voice swelling once more, "however, for that, we require a price from you."
Katie straightened, her heart pounding as she clutched Brick a little closer.
"Name your price, oh sacred Grove," she said, her voice tinged with both reverence and trepidation.
"We require a duet from you and your centaur companion," the Grove sang, their harmonized tones weaving the request into the air, clear and unyielding.
Katie blinked, the words settling over her like a weight. She took a cautious step forward, the soft fabric of her gown brushing against the moss-covered ground as she moved closer to the heart of the Grove. The faint glow of her tree-self, safely cradled within Brick, seemed to brighten slightly in response to the musical voice of the Grove, as though attuned to the ancient melody surrounding them.
"You're asking for… a duet?" She murmured, tilting her head in disbelief as the meaning of the trees' song became clear. Her voice carried a note of incredulity, the thought of performing a song in this hallowed, eerie place catching her off guard.
The Grove swayed in affirmation, the wind chimes hanging from their branches tinkling softly in agreement. "Unity through melody will prove your worth. A duet, your voices entwined, will earn our gift."
The words, sung rather than spoken, resonated in the still air, leaving no room for doubt.
Theron stepped up beside her, his equine body moving with effortless grace. He tilted his head, his wavy mane catching the golden light filtering through the canopy.
"A duet as proof of unity," he said, his voice laced with curiosity. "Interesting challenge."
Katie frowned.
"Is that the only way you'll give us some of your heartwood?" she asked aloud, addressing the Grove.
The trees' song shifted, their melodic whispers harmonizing into a definitive note of confirmation. "Yes!"
Katie sighed, glancing at Theron.
"Are you okay with this?" She asked, a trace of uncertainty in her voice.
Theron shrugged, his easy smile appearing as he adjusted the saddle bags draped across his equine back. "It's just singing a song, right? Sure, I'm game to give it a try."
Katie raised an eyebrow. "Do you even have a song in mind?"
Before Theron could answer, the trees' voices united, weaving their request into the air.
"Endless Love." They sang, the title carrying an almost teasing quality as it echoed around the Grove.
Katie's cheeks flushed a deep red.
"You've got to be kidding me." She sputtered, barely able to meet Theron's gaze.
Theron rubbed the back of his neck, his own cheeks tinged pink.
"A romantic ballad." He said with a nervous chuckle. "Well… I know the song. Do you?"
Katie fumbled for words, her embarrassment apparent. "Y-Yeah, I know it."
It was one of her father's favorite songs, a melody that had echoed through her childhood often enough to become ingrained in her memory. She was certain the oracular Grove of Dodona knew this fact well. Their matchmaking intentions seemed obvious now, as they had chosen a song that Theron knew as well, one that seemed carefully selected to nudge them closer together. Katie had to admit, if she was being honest with herself, she wasn't opposed to the idea.
Theron's lips quirked into a crooked grin, though his nervousness hadn't abated. "Alright then. We'll go for it?"
Katie hesitated for a beat before nodding, her heart pounding. "Let's… let's just get this over with."
Her long brunette hair shimmered faintly in the light that filtered through the Grove, the intricate embroidery of leaves and vines on her emerald gown glinting as she adjusted Brick in her arms. The Mimic shifted slightly, his pseudopods giving a gentle wriggle as though urging her forward.
Theron offered her a reassuring smile, his wavy mane catching the light with a casual charm that made her blush deepen. He took a steadying breath, his broad, sculpted torso rising as he prepared himself. Then, in a low, rich voice, he began to sing, the melody carrying through the sacred Grove.
"My love
There's only you in my life
The only thing that's right"
Katie's cheeks burned as she listened to him, her heart hammering as the romantic ballad's words rang out. Swallowing her nerves, she joined in, her clear, lilting voice blending with his. The trees of the Grove swayed in approval, their rustling leaves providing a faint harmony as proof of unity began to take form.
"My first love
You're every breath that I take
You're every step I make"
Theron's lips curved into a soft smile, his green-and-gold eyes sparkling with encouragement as Katie sang her part. His easy confidence steadied her, though his warmth and charm only made her blush more brightly. She shifted Brick slightly, her fingers brushing his smooth, flowerpot-like exterior for reassurance. The Mimic responded by wriggling a pseudopod against her arm as if to say, You've got this.
"And I, I want to share," Theron sang as they entered the chorus, his tone steady and inviting. Katie did her best to match him, echoing his "I" as the duet required.
"All my love with you," He sang.
The intensity of the moment, combined with the lyrics, had her blushing like a tomato. As they moved to the next line, where they should have sung together, she sputtered over the words and fell out of sync entirely.
"All m-my l-love with you," Katie stammered, her voice faltering as embarrassment overtook her.
"Stop! Stop!" The Grove cried, their harmonious voices now tinged with exasperation. "Try again. From the top."
Katie's shoulders slumped, and she glanced at Theron with an apologetic expression. "Sorry about that, Theron. It was my fault."
Theron shook his head, his tousled mane catching the light again as he gave her an easy, reassuring smile. "No, no. It's a duet. If we failed, it's both our faults. Let's just try again. Okay?"
Katie hesitated for a moment before nodding, her fingers tightening around Brick. The Mimic, sensing her nerves, extended a pseudopod to squeeze her arm gently, his version of a comforting pat. She smiled faintly at the gesture, drawing strength from her unusual but loyal companion.
"From the top?" Theron asked, his piercing gaze meeting hers.
"Yeah," Katie replied, taking a deep breath to steady herself. "From the top."
Theron nodded, his warm smile bolstering her resolve. He began to sing again, his rich baritone filling the Grove once more. Katie listened closely this time, focusing on matching his tone and timing. She straightened her back, the shimmering layers of her gown flowing gracefully as she prepared to join in, determined to prove their unity to the ancient, demanding trees.
"My love
There's only you in my life
The only thing that's right"
Theron began their duet once more, his rich baritone resonating through the sacred Grove with a warmth and depth that seemed to harmonize effortlessly with the ancient melodies of the trees. Each note carried a sense of calm confidence, his voice weaving seamlessly into the mystical ambiance of their surroundings. As the song progressed, his tone grew steadier, filling the Grove with a presence that was both commanding and reassuring, setting the perfect foundation for their shared performance.
"My first love
You're every breath that I take
You're every step I make"
Katie followed, her clear, lilting voice blending harmoniously with his. Her long brunette hair shimmered faintly in the dappled light as she sang, her emerald gown flowing like water with her every movement. She took a steadying breath in the brief pause before her next line, determined to tackle the upcoming chorus with confidence.
"And I (I), I want to share
All my love with you
No one else will do
And your eyes (Your eyes, your eyes)
They tell me how much you care
Oh, yes, you will always be
My endless love."
Katie's lips curved into a smile as she nailed her parts, her voice perfectly in sync with Theron's as the duet required. She exchanged a quick grin with her centaur companion, whose warm, golden-green eyes reflected his approval. His effortless charm and steady presence bolstered her confidence, and for a moment, the tension of the trial melted away.
"Two hearts
Two hearts that beat as one
Our lives have just begun
Forever (Oh, oh-oh-ooh)
I'll hold you close in my arms
I can't resist your charms"
They continued, their voices intertwining beautifully, creating a melody that seemed to resonate with the very essence of the Grove. The ancient trees swayed in approval, their rustling leaves adding a harmonious undertone that elevated the duet further.
As the melody carried on, Brick joined in his own way. The Mimic extended a pair of pseudopods from either side of his pot, waving them along to the rhythm of the song with an enthusiasm that lightened Katie's mood even further. The sight of her companion's antics brought a soft chuckle to her lips, and she felt a renewed determination to see the song through to the end.
"And love (Oh, love)
I'll be a fool for you, I'm sure
You know I don't mind (Oh, you know I don't mind)
'Cause you, you mean the world to me, oh
I know (I know)
(I've found) I've found in you my endless love"
Katie and Theron sang, their voices weaving together in harmony, Katie's performance steadier than she had anticipated. The Grove seemed to respond to their unity, its ancient melodies blending with their own as the sacred forest swayed gently in time with the song.
Caught up in the emotion of the moment, she extended a hand toward Theron, who accepted it with a warm smile. The moonlight filtering through the swaying trees highlighted his wavy mane and the golden undertones of his skin, adding to his effortless charm.
"Oh-oh, oh-oh-ooh
Boom, boom
Boom-boom-boom-boom, boom-boom
Boom, boom, boom-boom, boom"
They continued to sing, their voices intertwining with an ease that seemed to echo the unity demanded by the Grove. The trees responded in kind, their leaves rustling softly in harmonious approval, adding a natural rhythm to the melody. The Grove itself seemed alive with the song, as if it were an unseen conductor orchestrating their duet.
With Brick and her tree-self cradled securely in the crook of one arm, Katie allowed Theron to lead as they began to move, their steps natural and fluid despite the unusual setting. They quickly fell into a gentle rhythm, swaying and stepping together as though the song itself had taken hold, guiding their movements in perfect harmony.
"Oh-oh-ooh, and love (Oh, love)
I'll be that fool for you, I'm sure
You know I don't mind (Oh, you know I don't mind)
And I don't mind"
Their voices blended with a richness that filled the sacred forest with an undeniable harmony as they continued their duet. The resonance of their duet felt almost tangible, weaving together with the Grove's own music in a way that elevated the performance to something extraordinary. Each note seemed to ripple through the air, connecting them more deeply to the Grove and to each other.
Katie laughed softly as Theron twirled her in a simple but graceful motion, his strength and balance making the movement effortless. They danced with growing confidence, their joy evident in the way their voices soared through the ancient forest.
"And, yes
You'll be the only one
'Cause no one can deny
This love I have inside
And I'll give it all to you
My love (My love, my love)
My endless love"
They finished, their voices intertwining with a final, harmonious flourish. The last notes lingered in the air, wrapping around the Grove like a warm embrace, carrying a sense of unity and triumph that resonated with the ancient forest. The Grove itself seemed to pause in reverent silence, its approval evident in the soft rustling of its leaves.
As the melody faded, Katie released Theron's arm and stepped back, her emerald gown swirling with the motion. She dropped into a graceful curtsy, the shimmering layers of her attire catching the light. Theron inclined his head in response, his golden-green eyes shining with amusement and approval.
The Grove of Dodona responded with an unexpected sound: applause. Leaves rustled in unison, branches swayed, and a harmonious hum filled the air.
"A delightful performance." The Grove sang, its ancient voice resonating with approval.
The Grove's words reminded Katie of their purpose, and she suddenly recalled they had an audience. Her cheeks burned as she blushed brilliantly, her youthful features betraying her embarrassment. Turning her attention back to the ancient, oracular forest, she managed to stammer, "Was… was it nice enough to warrant being rewarded with a sliver of heartwood?"
The Grove hummed in satisfaction, its voice rising like a gentle choir. "Yes, worthy you are. The heartwood, you shall bear."
Mist swirled before them, thick and luminous, carrying with it an aura of power and reverence. Slowly, a fist-sized chunk of heartwood emerged, its surface a rich blend of deep brown and golden hues that seemed to shimmer with an inner light. Etched with natural patterns resembling flowing rivers, it radiated a protective warmth, a clear testament to the power of Rhea, the Mother of the Gods and the Titaness of Protection and Blessing.
Katie reached out reverently, accepting the sacred wood as it floated into her free arm. The moment her fingers touched it, a faint hum of energy pulsed through her, grounding her to the Grove's ancient power. She cradled the heartwood carefully, glancing up at Theron with a smile of gratitude before bowing her head toward the singing trees.
"Thank you, oh ancient Grove." Katie murmured softly, her voice carrying a reverence that matched the ethereal beauty of the Grove around her.
"We are not the only one you need to thank." The Grove sang in a playful, melodic chorus, its ancient voice laced with amusement.
"Oh! I know!" Katie said, a sudden wave of giddy excitement overtaking her. Without pausing to consider what she was doing, she turned to Theron, her long brunette hair flowing in a cascade of shimmering strands as she reached for him. Grabbing his arm, she pulled him close, the emerald silk of her gown catching the light as it swirled with her movement. Then, with an impulsive burst of courage, she kissed him.
Theron froze for a heartbeat before responding, his golden-green eyes widening in surprise before softening with warmth. He kissed her back, his touch gentle yet sure, his hand brushing her arm as if to steady them both. The kiss was unhurried, tender and charged with an intensity that made Katie's heart race. Brick, still nestled securely in her arm, shifted slightly but made no interruptions, as though even he recognised the significance of the moment.
The singing trees rustled with an amused chorus, their leaves swaying in celebration of the unexpected display of affection. Mist swirled around them, growing thicker and brighter, but Katie barely noticed. She was too lost in the kiss, the feeling of Theron's lips on hers and the world fading to just the two of them.
When she finally pulled back, her face glowing with warmth, Katie realised the Mist had cleared. They were no longer in the Grove of Dodona but instead back in the familiar woods outside Camp Half-Blood. The vibrant greenery of the forest surrounded them, but it paled in comparison to the memory of the kiss still fresh in her mind.
As she took in her surroundings, her racing heart overwhelmed her observations. She was still giddy from her and Theron's kiss. The first kiss of her life, in either of her lives. The joy and disbelief lingered like a heady warmth, leaving her breathless. In her past life as a Half-Blood, college-aged but solitary, no one had ever stirred her heart in such a way. Yet here, in this moment, Theron had shattered that history with a simple yet profound act of connection.
Theron's expression shifted from stunned to something softer, his tousled mane catching the moonlight as he regarded her with a mixture of affection and wonder. The depth in his gaze mirrored her own emotions, his eyes silently speaking of things words could not capture. For that brief instant, it was as though the burdens of war and duty melted away, leaving only the fragile hope of something more.
Katie cradled the heartwood infused with Rhea's power in her arm, its warm, golden hues a tangible reminder of their trial's success. As the moonlight filtered through the trees, she and Theron exchanged a glance heavy with unspoken longing. His hand reached for hers, their fingers brushing in a soft, lingering touch that conveyed everything they couldn't bring themselves to say. In that fleeting contact, Katie felt a promise, an unspoken wish for moments like this to exist beyond the chaos of their lives.
The bittersweet pang of duty, however, was a sharp reminder that she could not linger. The world demanded more of her, and every moment she stayed only deepened the ache of parting. Brick, nestled in her arm, offered a small, reassuring pat with one of his pseudopods, the nondescript pot shifting slightly as if to steady her resolve.
"Until we meet again." She whispered, her voice barely audible, tinged with hope and reluctant farewell.
Theron nodded, his easy smile now softened by sadness. He seemed on the verge of speaking but thought better of it, instead offering a gentle squeeze of her hand. The touch was firm yet fleeting, a silent tether between them as Katie prepared to leave.
Before stepping away, she leaned in, pressing a soft, fleeting kiss to Theron's cheek. The warmth of the touch lingered, and she couldn't help but notice the quiet smile that lit up his face. His eyes met hers, and for a brief moment, the world seemed to hold its breath. Her heart fluttered, a mixture of hope and longing stirring deep within her chest.
Turning reluctantly, Katie set her focus on the path back to Camp, the heartwood cradled in her arm radiating warmth and serving as a tangible reminder of her purpose. She planned to pass through its hearth and use the Floo connection, a means of transport bound to her goddess's domain and thus under her divine protection, to reach the colossus worksite. This precaution would help safeguard its location, for though she trusted Theron, the threat of spies and divination loomed ever-present. Once there, she and her fellow nature spirits would collaborate to shape and enchant the heartwood, transforming it into the core of the towering construct.
Brick's pseudopods shifted subtly around her, securing her tree-self snugly in place within his flower-pot form. Her familiar's quiet movements steadied her, anchoring her amidst the swirling emotions she could not shake. Her thoughts lingered on Theron, on the warmth of his touch and the unspoken promise in his gaze. Though duty called her forward, the memory of him, and the hope of seeing him again when peace reigned, kindled her resolve as she pressed onward into the quiet embrace of the night.
Done and done! Thanks to Nameless as always!
Katie, Katie stop! You're going through a pony panic! Oh dear, she's gotten lost in becoming just what we all feared. She's joined the herd. Andi approves. Still, Katie finding the Grove of Dodona was just a treat. Plus, the duet was just too cute. Now with some heartwood and a weapon in the making, Andi's got some big firepower coming her way!
Nameless: So a few of things:
i) The frisbee scene between Katie and Brick is a little repetitive at some points. That's deliberate on our part. It's basically our way to reflect the somewhat repetitive nature of the game. Hope you guys didn't mind.
ii) Before anyone asks why we didn't give a Theron POV on purpose. We want you all to have the chance to put yourself in his shoes and imagine his reaction to things. It should be a fun ride. XD
iii) I know our rendition of the Grove of Dodona doesn't match with how it appears in The Trials of Apollo in canon but we just wanted to go with a different take on it. Besides, we know that various mythological characters and places change in appearance and mannerisms over time. So you can argue that it's entirely possible for them to assume this form.
You know what to do! Smash that review button and tell us what you love! No flames and peace off my peeps!