A/N: Here's another part, with more to come!
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Zoe had watched as Percy and Tyson tried, to no avail, to encourage the Hundred-Handed One. They spoke a great many words, from praise to what his people had once done, to what, even now, he by himself could be capable of; but the words fell on deaf ears, and Briares only curled up tighter.
The despair he'd been forced into had broken him, and desire as they might to help in some way — whatever way they could — they lacked time.
And so, with a great deal of reluctance, Annabeth and Zoe took hold of the boys, and slowly began to pull them back into the maze; Tyson was the hardest, and his protests, and words of encouragement, did not cease until the Hundred-Handed One was out of view.
It was, for a while, quiet.
Tyson sniffled, and rubbed at his nose.
"It's alright, big guy. He's free — we'll see him again." Percy tried to comfort him, and patted him on the back.
Zoe was the next to speak. "Percy speaks truly. Our paths have crossed, and seldom does fate do something sans reason. 'Twas not the last of Briares, not the last you'll see. Do not fret, dear Cyclops." She spoke softly, and imitated Percy, patting his other shoulder.
Tyson nodded, and with a smile, drew the both of them into a hug. "Thank you."
After that ended some few seconds later, their group of five was back on the move. They went a bit faster, their pace quicker than it'd been prior to make up for all their lack of progress, and the walk, unlike before, was a silent one. Tyson and Percy kept close to one another, the latter giving the occasional reassurance to the former as he looked back the way they'd come.
Zoe, meanwhile, had taken to keeping to the back right behind the two whilst Grover and Annabeth led them; she would be the most likely to tell if they were followed, and would give the most advanced warning should a monster draw near.
She didn't like the feeling this place gave her.
The air was thick, the walls were dark, and the maze itself was a mess that seemed ever-changing.
It was far from the peace and tranquility that woodlands or coasts gave, but she would endure it. She had no other choice if she wanted to ensure the safety of Percy and those she'd come to call friend.
At some point, the maze had given way to a harsher landscape. One that struck Zoe as distinctly Western; not along the coast with the bright green fields, no, this was stonier ground. It was rocky, and had few plants sprouting through, with trees that seemed water-starved.
"Zoe?" Annabeth whispered to her as they came to a slow halt, the denser, dry foliage ahead blocking their path. "We're in the mid-west, aren't we? Texas? Oklahoma?"
Being one that'd walked forests for centuries, she had no trouble spotting the differences in trees and such. "I would say as much." Zoe navigated through the bushes, 'til she reached the treeline, whereupon she could see the landscape; it was most certainly as she and Annabeth thought... only not for very long, for it gave way to a ranch.
One that seemed to stand out from the others.
In a few seconds' time, Annabeth was back at her side, and staring the same way.
Zoe was going to ask what her thoughts were, but a creature on the ranch rose and flapped its wings, and in doing so, revealed that the space before her was filled with creatures that weren't of the mundane variety.
"Pegasi." Zoe said, and Annabeth nodded.
"Yeah."
The two of them moved away from the treeline and back towards their companions, who were still waiting behind whatever could conceal them; Tyson's large frame was difficult to hide, and though Zoe didn't see any monsters, it would be wise not to have him stand so much as near to the treeline she and Annabeth had peered from.
Not until they were certain the people ahead weren't enemies.
"There's a ranch ahead that seems to cover Mythological creatures — Zoe and I saw Pegasi and cattle, and there were others moving around." Annabeth whispered, looking between them.
"Can't we just go around?" Grover asked.
Annabeth shook her head. "Possibly." She looked back whence she and Zoe had come, causing the latter girl to do the same. "It... doesn't seem like it's meant to be hidden. Maybe we could ask for a tour. These types of places usually offer them, and it'd give us a look as to what's going on."
Zoe wasn't incredibly fond of the idea, but the five of them were well-able to protect themselves. If it meant getting a look at the creatures, and seeing for what reason they'd been brought here, then she supposed it was worth it.
Approaching the entrance to the ranch — one with an archway sign that spread over the road in — revealed a larger herd of cattle than Zoe had first thought; other creatures of varying rarities seemed present too, but the cattle were considered the prize possession based on the guardian thereof.
A two-headed hound.
It wasn't large as Cerberus was, but the beast's red eyes and watchful gaze were enough to show it was nothing to be made jest of... Zoe blinked then. She'd been ever so distracted by ascertaining the safety of the place — whilst keeping an eye on all of the group — that she'd passed over the cattle's colouring.
Red. Not subdued or dark, but of a bright and distinct hue.
"Apollo's Cattle."
The name left her mouth before she could stop it, and she looked to the others.
Annabeth's eyes went to them too, and her mouth opened. "Right." She breathed, and looked up, her gaze moving to the dog as it stayed sat, its eyes watching them.
"Maybe we should leave?" Grover whispered, his voice hushed and his words quick.
"We can't." Zoe's eyes picked out cows that were thinner than they should be, or those that seemed weaker. "They're not being properly tended to. My Lady would never forgive us if we left her brother's sacred cattle in so poor a state."
Percy and Annabeth nodded, whilst Grover looked a bit hesitant; he was so keenly aware of their limited time, but even he couldn't deny the state of the animals.
"We sh—"
"Well I'll be. Guests." Zoe's eyes darted to the source of the voice; an older man in a sleeveless jean jacket with large, bulging arms, a cowboy hat covering his head, and a great white beard that went down into three distinct braids.
He had a large, crooked nose and a wide grin that seemed to be a bit too sharp.
Zoe felt... off, with this man around. She supposed that could be said of most any save for her Percy, but something in particular struck her as not right about this one, like a lingering storm cloud that refused to disperse.
As he began to lead them towards the centre building, where the 'boss' was staying; the note of distaste when he'd said the word stuck out to her, and so she made certain of the grip she had over her bow — she had a feeling she'd be needing it, come soon.
Zoe narrowed her eyes at the man — Geryon, was his name — as he gave the slimiest of smiles to her and her party.
Eurytion, the 'cowboy' as he'd been called, had brought them into a very wealthy-seeming home, and now stood off to the side, leaning against a doorframe with a piece of hay between his teeth.
"Greetin's demi-gods." Geryon grinned at them, the large giant-like creature's eyes taking in the group; there was a presence of darkness and danger around the being. "You've come at a fine time, just 'bout to have supper. Y'all are more than welcome." He gestured to the table.
It was a fine set, with a large, oak table in the centre, a white cloth spread across it and plates of silver and gold that had an assortment of fruits and vegetables atop.
Zoe hid the frown that threatened to appear. This faux generosity and hospitality was most obvious to her; she looked at the others, seeing what they made of this.
Percy's expression was neutral, albeit a bit pleased at the thought — and smell — of food.
Grover was a bit wary and most certainly antsy, his feet moving every few seconds and his eyes glancing to the door.
Tyson seemed totally bought.
And finally, Annabeth; she had doubt in her expression that seemed to match Zoe's.
"We can't stay long." Annabeth said, speaking up before Zoe had to. "We're on a trip, but we saw the animals and had to take a closer look. Isn't that right?"
Zoe nodded and Percy and the rest followed suit.
"Oh?" Geryon's tone was curious, his eyes taking a look around their group. "Where to? And with so many of you?"
Annabeth didn't seem keen on answering, so Zoe took over.
"We seek the lands of New Mexico for a beast we heard rumour was lurking." If questioned, she could think of a venture she and her former sisters had taken. Yes, that would work well.
Geryon's brows raised. "And at such a young age? Where d'yall rest? We'd sure not mind putting you up for the night and givin' those little weary heads some place to lay down. Ain't that right, Eurytion? Y'could even take them to pet and feed the livestock. Keen youngins like that ought to love that."
The 'cowboy' grunted. "If'n they want."
"Tell y'what, we just 'bout got the best beans you've ever had done — cross my three hearts and hope to die if I'm lyin'." This Geryon man then laughed, but it failed to reach his eyes or come across as sincere. "Well, what'dya say?"
Tyson opened his mouth, the smell of the food getting to him, perhaps, but Percy intercepted his brother's would-be words. "We wouldn't mind taking a look at the cows, but we really can't stay long — like they said, we're on a hunt, and we can't waste much time."
Geryon didn't seem upset, nor was his smile any less present. "Fair. If y'all don't wanna stay, least let me see y'out with a gift."
The man turned around, and then, when he reappeared, it was with a net in his large hands; he held it out. "This oughta help." Then with nary another word, he tossed it at the largest, Tyson.
Zoe took 'hold of Percy, and pulled him from his brother's side, preventing the speedily-thrown object from ensnaring him.
In an instant, everyone was moving — Tyson was tangled, falling to the ground.
Annabeth drew her knife and Grover, a slingshot.
Percy, meanwhile, pulled out Riptide and made immediately for his brother's side to slice away the net. Zoe was quick to cover him, taking 'hold of her bow and readying an arrow.
Geryon didn't seem perturbed by any of their actions. "Y'know, it ain't polite to refuse gifts — go'on and teach 'em with me, Eurytion."
With that, Geryon grabbed at a nearby chair and threw it.
"Annabeth!" Percy yelled, and Zoe let go of her arrow, firing it straight for the monster's hand.
A loud yell followed, and a cry of pain, and Euryton... moved away.
Zoe'd been aiming at him, expecting him to jump to the defense of his self-titled 'boss', and yet, he seemed content to leave him to the wolves.
"I ain't attacking a bunch of kids. You'on your own." He dipped out from the door, and with a resounding bang, saw it closed behind him before Geryon could do anything else.
"Traitor." The creature growled, and grabbed another chair.
Percy deflected it and dove forth as Zoe went to the right; Tyson jumped forth, recently-freed, and took the brunt of a large, solid wood-made chair as it was thrown. It shattered when it hit him, but the Cyclops didn't seem to have noticed the force, and instead grabbed at the creature, pulling him down to the floor in a surprising show of strength.
The two grappled with one another, and whilst it was a losing fight for Tyson in the long run — in seconds, mayhaps — the Cyclops gave them the opening they needed.
Percy went in from one flank, Zoe fired at the other, and Annabeth dove forth with dagger extended.
All three made contact with their target, and the large, giant-like man stumbled backwards, falling over, and going still.
Zoe was at Percy's side before the giant, strange body had stilled on the ground, her eyes roving over him to ensure he was okay.
She was, at the very least, happy to see the blood was not his.
"Are you alright?" She asked him.
He nodded and sheathed his sword. "Yeah. Just wasn't expecting the chair — you good, big guy?"
Tyson looked up, and nodded. "Uh huh."
Annabeth sighed. "Well. That went well."
Grover walked over and helped Tyson up, and with the combined effort, was able to get him back to his feet.
"You can say that again." Percy chuckled, and wiped at his brow; he reached for his water, only to frown when he found his flask missing. "Did any of you pic—"
In a violent burst of action, Geryon's giant form sprung forth and sent a table flying.
Annabeth yelled a warning and dove, and this time, it was Percy's turn to pull Zoe as close as he could to him and get them both out of the way.
"C'mon now, you didn't think it'd be over that quick, did y'all?" Geryon patted his chest. "I've got three strikes, and there ain't no beatin' that — no, best back-up system 'man could have."
He seemed smug, but then, with a burst of strength, his hand went for a large, nearby cabinet, and pulled it forth with a yell; he threw it at the group.
Tyson moved to intercept it, and was successful.
Unfortunately, it was too heavy for him, and the Cyclops was once more pinned as a follow-up, thrown table was slammed atop him.
Percy was immediately running, and Zoe was quick on his heels; Annabeth and Grover did the same.
Zoe lept back, creating distance as she went for her bow and prepared an arrow, letting loose a flurry.
They struck him, and the creature stumbled, and with that, Percy and Annabeth moved in.
Both of their blades went in, and the two were quick to back away before the monster could make use of his hands and grab at them; what should've been lethal blows, be it heart or neck, did not kill him.
"C'mon youngins. I said it already 'nah. Three strikes — none y'all watch baseball?" Geryon knocked Percy's sword away with his elbow.
Percy was thrown back, and Zoe let another arrow loose, watching it sink into the monster's thigh, making him stumble... for all of a second's time.
The man's head snapped around, and he made a face. "Y'all should go for quite good amount, I'd reckon. More than any'old Apollo's cattle, and that there's sayin' something."
It took little for Zoe to understand what was meant; he was selling them for profit, and likely as a source of food.
They were meant to be sacred, but in his eyes, they were just means to expanding his wealth — he didn't even have the care to treat them well.
"Zoe! Aim for his heart!" Annabeth called just as she'd let loose two arrows in short succession, their aim to pin his hand, and stop him from throwing anything else.
She moved further to the right, her feet dancing across the floor as she tried to line up her shot. Vaguely, she could hear Annabeth shouting something to Percy as the fierce, wise girl did as she'd done before, and dove forth.
It was then, when she saw where Annabeth's dagger was tilted to hit, that Zoe caught her meaning — a prayer was uttered not a half-second thereafter, to Apollo, to Lady Artemis, and even to Lord Zeus. She prayed that her arrow would find its mark just as she prayed Annabeth's dagger and Riptide would find theirs.
The monster would not see another day.
A cry of pain left Geryon after what felt like an eternity of holding her breath and watching for signs that all had done as needed, and he fell forward, a sickening squelching sound coming forth from the wound and his visage one of the utmost surprise. It seemed even sans the other man, Eurytion, he'd expected an amusing fight that'd ultimately end in him getting exactly as he desired.
But that wasn't to be.
Percy's breath was ragged, and though his sword arm was trembling, he looked ready to dive forth again if the need arose. His desire to protect the others was clear, and Zoe could feel pride bubbling up within her now that the danger had come and gone; he was the epitome of a hero time and time again, and such was her greatest concern and the reasing for her coming along.
"Ow." Tyson drew her attention away from Percy — he was completely fine, she'd assessed in that few seconds' look. The large Cyclops was rubbing at his head, and as his eye came to focus, he looked around. "Is it gone gone?"
"Yes." Annabeth said. "We'll go get some help and free the animals, and then we can—"
The door banged open.
Zoe and Percy moved in front of their companions, both of their weapons drawn and ready to protect their friends.
"Woah now," Eurytion held up his hands. "Ain't no need for that."
Annabeth, with dagger in-hand, cocked her hips to one side. "You didn't help us."
"I didn't harm y'all neither." He leaned back in the doorway, and looked to the still body of Geryon, then back to them. "Heard what y'all said too, 'bout the animals. They are poorly kept."
"Can you take care of them?" Zoe spoke up with folded arms as she stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Percy, her eyes narrowing at the cowboy.
He nodded. "With 'im gone, reckon I can make sure they're all kept and taken proper care of. And, you could always check in. You'all're welcome anytime."
Annabeth was the first to put her dagger away, and then, with a bit of reluctance, Zoe and Percy did the same; stowing their weapons and looking between each other, it was clear to the two that, even if their friends would rather they didn't, they were going to return every once and a while, at least, to check up on the place and ensure the animals were truly well.
"How long?" Zoe asked, nodding towards Geryon's body.
"I can't rightly say, but a-hundred years, give or take a few."
"Good. You'll be the boss when he comes back." Percy stated with a firm nod. "He'll have to serve you." He moved closer to Eurytion then, and started speaking about the animals, and how important it was that they see him as a true care-giver rather than just another one who wants them for money; one that'd see them left without adequate feed or water or proper attention.
And the cowboy seemed to understand — in fact, his gaze was far more serious than Zoe had yet seen from the man as he nodded along with Percy's words. "Don't worry none. I'll take care'a them. Might take'while, but I'll get 'em to trust me. See that I ain't like Geryon, even if I wudn't able to stop him. Not without all y'alls help."
"Or theirs, once you've earned the trust you speak of desiring." Zoe pointed out, and Eurytion nodded, the seriousness of his gaze only deepening as he nodded his head.
"Exactly. I'll work to make this ranch a proper home for 'em. Like it should'a been — ya'know, y'all are more than welcome to stay and feed 'ere if you'd like. Got plenty'a space for ya. Could even get some 'elp from ya, if'n y'all wouldn't mind."
Percy and Zoe looked to the others, and with a unanimous agreement, the five would stay and offer what assistance they could — for an hour or so — before leaving and returning to their journey. Zoe would also urge them all to rest and let sleep take them for half an hour or so, and when they'd rise, she'd have them 'feed' from their own stores.
Eurytion might do as he said and care for the animals with the only opposition gone, but still, she trusted not the stranger who'd readily leave a group of youth to face a monster when he could've interceded. And so no food that he offered, nor drink, would pass their lips.
Zoe would see to that just as she'd see to the animals.
Nearly an hour and a half later, all the creatures were fed, and had their water replenished. Any wounds were cleaned and tended to, and with Zoe's knowledge, he would have all the information needed to see to their continued health. She would admit, there seemed a genuineness to his deeds post-fight, and from what he'd said whilst they wandered the Ranch together, he was tired of fighting the giant's fights, tired of having to hurt others or watch as the animals he tended to were sold off as feed for those that wanted beings like Eurytion, or they themselves, killed or subjugated.
"Thank'ya for the help." He nodded his head again, his voice low as he leaned with that ever-present straw hanging from his lip. "Y'all are good peoples, I tell ya. I hope ya find what you're lookin' for."
"We will in time." Zoe had no doubt about that.
Percy, the only other one that was awake — he claimed he couldn't sleep — nodded, but his words did relay the same impatience Grover seemed to feel. "We need to find Daedalus. The maze maker."
"I was reckinin' that other tale you'd told wasn't the whole truth. Some of y'all fidgeted too much. Don't worry none. I ain't got nobody to tell. Reckon I didn't even see ya's here. Came back and found my old boss done dealt with." Eurytion rose then, chuckling and moving towards a large drawer just at the edge of the exit.
She and Percy each watched as he withdrew a... metallic spider of some ilk.
It seemed to be one of Hephaestus' creations — Zoe had seldom seen such a thing, but the craftsmanship was evident.
"This'er'll lead ya straight to Hephaestus. He'll know how to get y'all to the maze-maker." Eurytion gave it a little pat, then walked over to Percy, presenting the item. "Careful now, don't let 'im go nowhere else."
"Right." Percy accepted it with a nod and a smile. "Thank you."
"Nah, thank you—" Eurytion's eyes went to her after he clasped Percy on the shoulder. "And you too, darlin'. Don't quite know how, but you know more about these lands and the beasts hereon than most'a people ever could."
"It comes with experience." Zoe shifted, putting Percy between her and this other demi-god; she'd wrinkled her nose at the nickname he'd given, but in truth, she desired not to cause offense.
Mutual aid had been provided, and very soon, once a little more rest had been achieved, they would be off.
"I can't doubt that, but can't have much of it, can you?" Eurytion gave her a little nod, then swept his eyes over the group at large. "Not one of y'all looks out of them teen years — know what, 'ere, I got another thing I can give yous. It ain't much, but it's better than what some of y'all got on your feet."
Zoe and Percy shared a look.
"Thanks."
The man disappeared from the room, and then returned with five pairs of boots, and handed one pair to each person in turn; well, he handed Percy's and hers to Percy, and set the others down near to the other sleeping companions. "Y'all can change'em out when y'all get back on the road, or leave 'em be. It's all up to you."
"Thank you."
Eurytion shrugged. "No problem. Y'all helped me and I helped yous, that's all there is to it." He started to move away then, towards the field. "Well, I'll get back to tendin' the cattle. Reckon you should get some rest yourselves."
With a wave and a nod, Percy watched him go, and then, his attention turned to Zoe.
"You think he'll keep his word?"
"Which word'll that be?" Zoe cocked her head, and moved a few paces closer, standing just beside him.
"About the animals." Percy took her hand — an action that still brought a small happiness to her whenever he did so — and moved over to the nearby, unoccupied couch. "Maybe all of it. Coming back, the spider — real helpful, isn't he?"
Zoe took a seat, and Percy sat down next to her.
"I hope he does." She said, and squeezed his hand, letting her head lay against his shoulder. "I would rather not think him a liar or a trickster. Quests are perilous enough without deceivers."
"Yeah." Percy leaned back, and Zoe could feel his gaze upon her. "What?"
"I'm happy you're here. With me. On this quest." He squeezed her hand. "You and Annabeth make everything easy."
Zoe smiled, and let her eyes close. "I'm glad. My reason for being here is to ensure your health — I fear with only Annabeth to talk sense into you, that recklessness would get the better of you."
"Im not that reckless. I'm careful." Percy huffed.
She blinked at him.
"I'm not! ... Am I really that reckless?"
Zoe extended a hand, tracing the various wounds she'd treated. "You are." She stated, and kissed his cheek. "But you're brave. Brave and heroic. That just means a healer's required to be nearby — you should've rested, by the way. We'll not have many chances to rest in a place as secure as this."
He shrugged. "I couldn't sleep. We've done too much, and after the fight, I've been wide awake." Then, he reached into his pack, and withdrew a little rectangle of food from a plastic packet. "Besides, you need to eat too, and I'm the only one who's awake."
"You're not wrong." Zoe accepted a piece when he broke it off, and handed it to her.
"I can be right sometimes. Annabeth'll agree." Zoe rolled her eyes. That was an ever-so-Percy thing to say.
"I would give credit where credit's due. You learned how to tend to a garden quicker than most, and you know how to use a bow, even if you always insist on diving in." Zoe moved against his flank, her eyes trailing down it, ensuring there wasn't any blood or cuts or anything else.
He, like all the others, was completely fine.
"Thanks." He seemed to go a touch red; praise always seemed to make him so... and now, the more she noticed it, the more she came to find it handsome.
Zoe let her eyes close again. "I just spoke the truth."
Percy sighed, and let his head lay atop hers; her hair tickling his nose made him fidget, but he didn't want to move. Their closeness was too enjoyable. "We should be off soon, right? Grover won't want to have slept for very long."
"We'll wake them once we've finished eating."
He hummed.
They enjoyed a brief moment of peace and quiet, and Percy's arm was draped across her shoulders as he held her against his side, her head upon his chest as she listened to the beating of his heart.
Eventually, some few minutes later, Percy and Zoe set to waking the others.
Tyson was the easiest. The Cyclops rose from the table he'd fallen asleep upon, and rubbed his eye. He'd been the one most in-need of a good rest after the multiple hits he'd taken.
"Are we going now?"
"Yes." Annabeth's voice was quiet, but she sounded alert. The girl was always quick in gathering her senses after rising.
Percy was quick to offer snacks to Annabeth, Grover and Tyson as they started to change out their boots — the ones Eurytion had given them thick as could be, and far more suitable for the long walk ahead than sneakers or the like.
And so, with the Ranch at their rear, the group returned to the maze; the spider leading the way.
Zoe took the lead, following close behind the metal spider with keen eyes.
Were it something that'd lead them into a trap, she would have the greatest chance of seeing it coming — and thus, stopping it, or calling out a warning for the others.
Percy, meanwhile, was keeping to the middle. He was watching Zoe and Annabeth ahead, whilst occasionally looking over his shoulder, at Tyson and Grover. The former of the two didn't seem injured after the fight, and but he still seemed down after their earlier encounter with Briares.
The legendary Hundred-Handed One had abandoned them after his rescue, and that had clearly struck Tyson. They were meant to be brothers, and though the Cyclops was trying his best not to show it, it was evident that his spirits were lower than usual.
They'd all need to keep his spirits up.
"How many places do you think this leads to?"
Annabeth, her hand at her chin and her eyes on the spider, seemed to ponder her answer. "Too many to theorise. Daedalus is a master inventor. The fact that it leads to camp, and we only recently discovered, or rediscovered that fact means there could be so many other destinations."
"It's kind of creepy." Grover shivered. "I miss a nice, healthy forest."
"Not Juniper?" Percy teased, elbowing Grover lightly in an attempt to distract him from the pressure that'd continuously mounted since the deadline he'd been given.
"I miss her too!" Grover said, returning the blow.
"Gods." Annabeth's voice cut into the fun. "I just remembered I forgot to return a book to the library."
That immediately earned a laugh from Percy. "You're the only one that'd worry about that while we're down here."
"I have a limit on how many books I can take out. Of course I'd be worried." Annabeth huffed.
Up ahead, Zoe had a small smile as she only vaguely tuned into the conversation.
Her ears were trained on the world around her, and the metal spider at her front, but still, the words reached her.
"Left." She said for their benefit, her smile growing slightly wider when she heard Percy and Annabeth start talking again, and the words therebetween causing Tyson and Grover to laugh.
With a few points of stress under their belt, it seemed there was a lightness to them; they'd overcome two monsters, rescued a ranch full of various mythological creatures being kept for slaughter, and saw a Hundred-Handed One freed from captivity.
Most would call that tale-worthy, and in a way, it was.
The group had accomplished much — but there was still more to do.
Much, much more.
A Sphinx.
The little metal spider had guided them for an amount of time that was hard to discern, but eventually, it'd come to a halt — assisted by Zoe stopping it with a well-placed arrow — when the great monster came into view. It was very clearly blocking their path, and based on the stance, it'd intervene if they tried to move around it.
Zoe shifted to the left, already taking to her bow as Annabeth and Percy advanced closer to the monster; Tyson and Grover lingered not too many steps behind the first pair.
"Hello, young demi-gods." The beast said, its tone low and womanly.
"Your riddle?" Annabeth asked, raising her head and folding her arms.
"Just one? How out of fashion — no, my sweet, we'll make a game of it." The Sphinx smiled, fangs showing. "Answer. That. Riddle! A game of my own making, and one that'll put to test those young minds of yours."
Annabeth protested. "What happened to the riddle 'what walks o—"
"Everybody knows the answer to it, my dear. It's too dated, but a gameshow most certainly isn't." The Sphinx waved a hand. "Twenty riddles. Solve them all, and you and your friends can pass by without so much as a taste from my part. Fail, and you'll be my meal of the week."
"And what if we refuse?" Percy asked, his own hands gripping the hilt of his blade.
"Then, unless you turn around, you'll be my meal — naughty children mustn't play in the maze." The Sphinx shook its head.
Percy shared a look with Annabeth, and the daughter of Athena stepped forth. "Ask."
Zoe lingered off to the side, her eyes spying the heart of the Sphinx; it'd be the best place to shoot for, and the most likely to kill it should things not work out the way Annabeth planned.
"What is the capital of Bulgaria?"
Annabeth answered almost immediately. "Sofia."
"Correct. The next riddle — What is the square root of 16?"
"Four." Annabeth sniffed, her arms still folded as her eyes bored into the Sphinx's. She was unimpressed, and it was clear to see.
"Correct. Which US president signed the Emancipation Proclamation?"
"Abraham Lincoln." Annabeth replied, and then, she raised a hand, interrupting the monster before it could ask the next. "None of these are riddles. It's just random trivia."
"They're most certainly riddles, my dear. A Sphinx does not make trivia. A Sphinx asks riddles. Now, let's try a harder one — How much force is requ—"
"No." Annabeth shook her head. "Ask a riddle, and I'll give you the answer as quickly as I've given the others. No more trivia. It's a stupid game.""
The Sphinx blinked. "You're refusing my riddle?"
"It's not a riddle. It's trivia, and of an insultingly low-quality, too."
"Insulting?" The Sphinx seemed genuinely offended, but then she shook her head to one side. "No, no. I'll not let little children get the better of me." She took a deep breath, fixed them with a smile... and then dove straight towards Annabeth.
Zoe and the others moved in response as Annabeth dove back; the moment she did so, a blur — Tyson — made contact with the diving Sphinx, intercepting in with a heavy, violent-sounding thud that sent the monster crashing down.
As he lept back from it, Zoe released arrow after arrow, striking it as Grover used what seemed to be woodland magic, causing nearby plantlife to reach out, wrapping around the struggling monster. Tyson, at a distance, began to fling anything that he could, including some machine that'd been near to the Sphinx, and it was under this surge of attacks that Percy advanced, his sword in his hand as he swung it down upon the struggling creature.
A roar spilled forth, and pinned as it was, the Sphinx couldn't resist.
It was defeated.
"Do all of you know the answer to the riddle?"
Such were the first words spoken after the fight, and of course, they came from Annabeth; even now, victorious as they were, she had a sour look upon her face, and a hand on her hip as she gazed pointedly to where the Sphinx had been.
"What riddle?" Percy asked, wiping sweat from his brow.
Annabeth huffed.
The five continued for a few minutes' time before they came across a room in which noise was audible; they would've been worried, were it not for the little metal spider scurrying faster, with a strange, almost life-like pep in its step.
There, at the end of the room, was an entrance to a workshop, and within the workshop, a man, hunched over, working away.
He was muttering to himself, and as he did so, the room, illuminated by various lamps and a single, massive furnace, was filled with the sounds of mechanical clanking and hammering.
Zoe stopped just short of the entrance, and the others followed her example; save Percy, who stood beside her, and watched the man; the stench of metal-work and industry was one she'd never enjoyed, and it was strong here.
Too strong for her to desire entering as Tyson very quickly did. "Go. I'll linger by the entrance."
"So will I." Grover seemed just as uncomfortable, a strangeness to him that'd only grown stronger.
Annabeth and Percy were the only other ones to enter, and the latter with a lingering look over his shoulder that was directed Zoe's way.
She could only offer a weak smile in return, before she leaned against the door's archway just as Eurytion had done; it was a surprisingly comfortable position, and allowed her to keep watch of both those within, and that which lay whence they'd come. On a hunt, one should never expect they're the only one doing the stalking. That was how hunters were caught unaware — a lesson Zoe had seen Percy learn through mock hunts in the woods the pair so loved.
Percy and Zoe looked on with Annabeth as Grover and Tyson separated from their group, the former swearing that he felt Pan, and the latter wishing to aid his friend; he couldn't very well go alone.
"Do you think they'll be alright?" Percy worried about his friend and brother.
Zoe had an ear out, listening as they made their way along the twisting path, but the question, posed by Percy, drew her attention.
"Both will be fine." Zoe's fingers tightened around her bow. "Grover's a satyr, and Tyson's a Cyclops — tough as they come, and Grover is especially skilled at finding his way. We must trust his senses. Pan would not lead him astray."
Percy felt comforted by her words, and as they walked, Zoe saw his eyes flick between her and the direction they'd left Tyson and Grover.
As for Annabeth, with only three of them remaining, and a new quest, the girl was lost in her own thoughts. Her face was scrunched, and her hands were folded over.
Maybe she was still stewing over the Sphinx as well; as a daughter of Athena, she had a love for many such things. And so, throughout her reading, she'd read a thousand and one riddles, and the Sphinx's weren't even close to good enough.
"I would advise caution now that Tyson's no longer among us." Zoe said, her voice low. "His strength was an advantage, and now, we lack it. Luckily, Percy's come to learn quite well the bow, isn't that right?"
Annabeth looked to him too, seeing a change in her battle-plans.
"Yeah, but I don't have as good a shot as you."
Zoe hummed. "You're more than proficient — I only wish I could've had more lessons with you, Annabeth."
"That's... a good point." Annabeth had never shown a fondness for martial training. Studying or otherwise learning something hands-on was a different story, but fighting was something she didn't care for. Still, the wise girl knew the necessity of it. "I'll keep that in mind — for the time being, I'll watch your backs if we have the chance to initiate."
"That'll be useful." Zoe smiled, and then, the trio continued to the forge in relative silence, each lost in their own thoughts, and their own worries.
For Percy, it was the worry for those who'd broken off from their group.
For Annabeth, it was the worry of their quest and all that there still seemed to need doing; the presence of monsters and the great many other paths also bothered her, for though they were entirely too common.
And finally, for Zoe, it was the worry and the anticipation for what would come. The end of the last quest they'd been on had been near-fatal, and yet, here she was, walking once more, with the son of Poseidon at her side, the demi-god a hero worthy of the title.
All three were, despite the earliness of their quest, ready for it to be ended.
"Do you smell that?" Annabeth looked over her shoulder at the pair.
Each gave a sniff, and then a nod.
"What is it?" Percy asked, looking around.
"Fire. The forge is ahead." Zoe narrowed her eyes.
"I can't see it." Annabeth shook her head, and gestured for the duo to follow her.
"The scent carries." Zoe murmured, her nose scrunching. "It seems whoever is making use of Hehaestus' forge is present at this very moment."
"Sounds like our task'll be done soon, then." Percy's gaze moved ahead, and the pace of his steps increased, until he was leading the way, Zoe and Annabeth trailing behind him, each with their weapons out, just in case.
"Percy, wait!" Annabeth whispered, and reached out to take his arm, trying to stop him. "Quietly, remember? We have the advantage."
He stopped, and nodded. "Right. Sorry."
The trio slowed, making cautious, purposeful steps, until, eventually, they came upon a massive chamber. Heat poured forth, and a forge — easily the largest Percy had ever seen — was present within, along with a group of creatures, huddled around it and hammering. From the vantage point the trio had along a high walkway that could peer down, they could see the sheer vastness and amount of tools and weapons present.
It seemed like a forge most would dream of having, and it was currently being used by a group of...
"Telekhine." Annabeth hissed.
"Oh." Percy looked closer; they were sea demons. Ones that'd formerly laboured for the Gods.
That wasn't the case anymore, evidently.
"More ahead, and watching from a television." Zoe pointed further ahead, and to the right of the 'smiths', to where a group of smaller Telekhine were sitting, and watching something.
"A documentary." Annabeth noted. "One of an admirable quality, though it's a bit dated now."
"We're not going to be able to get down there without being noticed." Percy spoke up after Annabeth's comment, the blonde distracted for a few seconds' time.
Percy's words, however, brought her back — and at the same time as Zoe did something that saw Annabeth and Percy both tense.
She hopped from the walkway, to a thin pipe with a platform near to it. Her dexterity was on full-display, and her bow, held in her left hand, was readied as soon as she was sure of her position.
"Take aim, Percy." Annabeth then caught Zoe's attention, and mouth to her 'On Percy's mark'.
Zoe nodded.
Percy, meanwhile, was looking over the railing, his hands gripping his bow tight as could be... 'til he remembered Zoe's many tips, and forced himself to relax.
He took a breath.
Another.
A third.
Then, on the fourth, he fired.
The arrow struck true, and immediately after, a second did the same.
The pair that Zoe shot had felled, and with a cry, the Telekhine were alerted to the threat; Annabeth's blade was out and Zoe was hopping to another pipe, her arrows firing rapidly, as fast as she could pull them back.
"Go, Annabeth!" Percy had stowed his bow after three of the four working the centre — and speaking openly of aiding Kronos — were felled. He'd join the aforementioned Annabeth on the ground, taking the lead with Tyson gone whilst Zoe could continue to help from high above, where she could make full use of her archery.
The one monster that remained, tall and strong-looking as it was, seemed the last of the largest.
Those that'd been watching the documentary, for their part, were up and fleeing, their cowardice on full display.
Percy found it amusing for such large creatures. Young or small as they were, there wasn't a doubt in his mind that they were full of strength.
As his feet touched the ground below not a second after Annabeth's, the pair started forth, to strike down the last remaining creature.
Only for two arrows to come whistling through the air, striking the beast, and causing it to collapse to its knees, the formerly confident stance with a hammer in-hand reduced to nothing as weakness overtook the Telekhine.
A third arrow followed not a moment after, and the creature fell to the ground, finished.
"Nice timing." Percy offered Zoe a thumbs-up as the huntress leapt down, landing beside the pair.
"They presented no challenge." Zoe retrieved her arrows from the fallen creatures, and held out the one Percy had used. "A fine shot, as I'd expected. You've made much improvement, Percy."
"Yeah." Percy accepted the arrow with a grin. "I had the best teacher."
"Mhm." Annabeth cleared her throat. "Now, why don't we make sure the place is clear? There could be more, and we should secure it — the forge is our way to Daedalus."
"Of course." Zoe's expression turned serious, and the trio started to move around, a layer of sweat forming on each of their brows.
The place was so hot, and the three were clad in layers to combat the maze.
Still, they persisted, and once they ascertained the who and safety, and that the forge was indeed clear, the trio decided they could take their leave of the place; rest was desirable, but not in a place so hot as this, and not if other monsters could return.
Hephaestus had, after all, only asked that they figure out who was invading, and why for.
They'd discovered exactly that.
The trio had gone far enough away that the stench of industry had begun to fade. The vastness of the maze had, thankfully, lessened, and they'd been allowed some semblance of peace and quiet.
The little metal spider had been given back to them for the sake of returning to Hephaestus, and was scurrying ahead, acting as their guide; they'd stop it once they found a place that offered at least some safety. A snack, water and chance to catch their breaths was a priority, and then, they'd return for the answer they sought; a choice would have to be made thereafter, but all three were more than happy to let that wait.
Nobody wanted to think about choosing between continuing their time-sensitive assignment, and searching for their friends were they not there already waiting for them.
"Up ahead. We could rest in that room." Annabeth pointed to a spot in the maze ahead where an adjar door lay. It was open, and within, it seemed like a lounge-like room, with various tables and chairs, and what looked like a pool-table, and a kitchen. "After checking it."
Zoe nodded at the latter part. "There could be traps, and monsters. It seems too convenient."
"I'll go first." Percy had his sword in-hand before either of the girls could protest. He walked ahead of them, and with his free hand, pushed the door, the entrance swinging open with ease, and the noise it made audible throughout the corridor.
"That doesn't seem too stealthy." Zoe muttered, and then, her gaze met Percy's.
"Oops."
Zoe couldn't resist a chuckle. at the sheepishness he wore "Well, we should be cautious nonetheless. Annabeth, stay behind Percy."
Annabeth had already had her blade out, and was following the order Zoe had given whilst Zoe herself took to walking with her back to the pair, ensuring nothing came from behind or ahead as they went into the side-room.
Inside, it was just as Percy had seen. A lounge.
"No sign of monsters, and no traps." Annabeth said, and then, she looked around, seeing the various things as she stowed her blade. "This isn't the first one of these rooms I've seen. They're littered throughout the maze. I wonder why there's so many."
"Maybe he liked the concept but kept losing them?" Percy suggested.
That saw Annabeth laugh. "I doubt that, Seaweed Brain."
Zoe saw the door shut — and barred — behind them, and sought out the plush couch.
This break would be short, and it would be needed.
As would a snack and drink; they'd seek out Hephaestus when half an hour had gone by.
Hopefully, then, they'd have all that they needed to finish their journey — person and information alike.