“We talked about this, bestie. We can’t right now.” I loop my arm through hers.
“You know we’re never going to hear the end of this right?” Jayden whispers to Greyson.
I glare at the two of them over my shoulder. If we decide we’re going to the dragon realm after this mess is all done, then we are and they won’t be able to stop us.
“Sorry, baby, you know I’ll follow you anywhere.” Jayden blows me a kiss.
Raven gags. “You two are so gooey sweet you give me a toothache.”
“Shut up,” I whisper.
My cheeks heat when Hades turns his smile on me and winks.
“He got that from me and my wife,” he says, proud.
“You two are the most adorable couple I have ever seen,” I say.
We make it to the gate to Elysium and I cock my head to the side in confusion. We were already in Elysium once today. The place creeps me out. It’s just a little too perfect. It reminds me of the last time I saw my mom.
It wasn’t a happy reunion. She was upset that I found my way to Halfling Academy and other demigods. She had never wanted this life for me and I can’t say that I blame her one bit for that, especially since I’m leading the charge in a war against gods.
I stiffen as Hades opens the gate to Elysium. Raven squeezes my arm and pulls me forward through the gate. I scan the forest but there are no souls around. My shoulders relax in relief. We follow Hades down a path to a clearing where a swirling purple and black portal sits.
“All souls have been cleared from the area until this portal is gone. We don’t want them accidentally walking through it and causing a stir in the human world.” Hades steps in front of the portal.
Any kind of reprieve we had is officially over. What fresh hell are we about to face on our way to Arcadia?
