Chapter Seventeen
How do we get out of the underworld?” Raven asks.
“We need to call Hades.” I grab the conch shell from my bag. “Hades, God of the Underworld.”
The mist clears and Hades’ shocked face comes into view in front of me. “I think we should have been informed that there is a portal to another realm in the damn underworld.”
“What?” he asks. “You’re in Elysium? Shouldn’t you be trying to retrieve Hermes’ caduceus?”
“That’s the plan but we ended up transported to the fae realm. There are humans there from our realm as well. The fae are not hospitable to them in the slightest.”
“Hermes is not going to be impressed with them.” Hades sighs. “I need to get you all out of the underworld so we can fix this mess.”
Hades disappears and the next second pops into existence in front of us. He glances around warily before beckoning us all with a finger to gather around him. My head spins and I sway on my feet as the world around us changes until we’re deposited into Hades’ throne room.
Persephone gasps from her throne. “Children, what are you doing here?”
“You have a portal to the fae realm in Elysium,” I say.
“Well, yes, it’s the safest place for it so humans don’t stumble on it.” Persephone nods.
“Demons got out when we were searching for the helm. You don’t have someone watching the portal and I think there may be fae in the underworld.”
“We will find a guardian we trust to watch the portal and send back any fae that may come through in the future, but resources are sparse while the war is ongoing,” Hades says.
“The road spit you out in the fae realm?” Persephone gasps.
“Got it in one.” Raven chuckles.
“Where are you thinking the temple is located?” Hades asks.
“Southern Florida swampland. It’s the perfect place for Arcadia,” I say.
“Smart. I’ll make arrangements and see how close we can get you to your destination. I won’t be able to get you directly there because it’s a magical place and will repel me.”
“Any help would be appreciated, Father,” Jayden says.
“How long have we been gone? They said that time works differently there.” I wring my hands together.
“When did you leave the academy?”
“We just talked to you last night and left this morning. We have been gone a few hours max,” Jayden says.
“No, I spoke with you three days ago,” Hades says.
“Three days? Fuck.” I run a hand down my face.
“We will do what we can to make up the time.” Jayden pulls me into his chest.
“The two of you are so adorable together.” Persephone claps her hands, bouncing on her toes.
“I’ll get you as close as I can. Arcadia can be treacherous. There are creatures there that no human should ever see.” Hades frowns. “Hermes will want to see you.”
“Go, get Hermes and make arrangements for the children, love.” Persephone pats his shoulder.
“Wait,” Jayden says and pulls something from his pocket.
“You brought Spot with us?” I ask him.
