LXXVIII

At sunset, Percy thanks Nico for leading the quest to the House of Hades and for befriending Bob, recognizing that Nico’s kindness likely saved Percy and Annabeth in Tartarus. Nico remains guarded, finishes rigging ropes to the Athena Parthenos, and asks for space. Annabeth offers brief encouragement as Reyna and Coach Hedge arrive armed and ready to escort the statue.

Nico, Reyna, and Hedge take the ropes, and the Athena Parthenos folds into shadow as they shadow-travel toward Camp Half-Blood. Their departure sets the parallel missions in motion: delivering the statue to prevent war at camp while the Argo II continues toward Athens to confront Gaea.

After nightfall the Argo II heads southwest to the Ionian Sea, choosing a sea route to avoid Gaea’s land forces. Percy takes comfort in the ocean but is haunted by visions of Tartarus and the memory of Bob and Damasen. Annabeth shares his grief and focuses them on honoring the sacrifice by defeating Gaea.

As the stars emerge, the crew settles into roles: Leo tinkers with Festus, Piper and Hazel train, and Jason and Frank confer at the helm. Percy and Annabeth reaffirm their vow never to be separated, looking ahead to a future after victory. Percy studies the constellations and murmurs, “Bob says hello,” as the Argo II sails into the night toward Athens.