Kael stood at the front of the academy, surrounded by all the students and teachers. They lined the walkway—shoulder to shoulder, silent at first. Then, one by one, the cheers started—wishing them good luck, cheering their classmates.
One by one, the chosen demigods stepped forward.
Some with their heads held high.
Others… quieter.
As they passed through, Chiron stood waiting by the gate—arms behind his back, watching each face like he already knew who would return.
He looked them over and started to speak.
"You will all go there and investigate. That is your quest. Your job is to retrieve whatever you find inside. But do not look within or take anything for yourself. If you do, you will be punished by the gods. Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes," they all replied.
That only made him want to see it more.
What could be so important—or so powerful—that the gods themselves had to keep it secret?
"Greed, you thinking what I'm thinking?" he muttered.
