XVII

Frank wakes inexplicably as a python, then reverts to human and is assaulted by the dueling voices of Mars and Ares. He focuses on the ever-burning lamp in his cabin to quiet them, reflecting on recent incompetence, his fear of fire, and the comfort of Hazel safeguarding his life-controlling firewood. He resolves to be useful, especially with Annabeth gone, and arms himself for the day.

On deck, the Argo II has docked in Venice. The crew observes dozens of shaggy, cow-sized monsters whose appearances flicker to mortals as stray dogs. With crowds everywhere, ranged attacks are untenable. They decide they must walk through the city to track the address tied to Leo’s leather-bound manual, given by the dwarfs: La Casa Nera, Calle Frezzeria.

As thunder rumbles from lingering storms, Jason proposes staying aboard to defend against possible venti, and Coach Hedge opts out of a “boring” noncombat excursion. Leo assigns Hedge to help with foremast repairs and a new engine installation. Piper declines due to poor animal affinity.

Frank volunteers to go ashore, aiming to prove useful. Nico joins, citing his Italian and an ominous sense of abundant death and restless spirits in Venice that he might repel. Hazel completes the trio, invoking the strength of three for a quest. Frank, reassured by Hazel’s presence, accepts the plan despite his unease with Nico.

The chapter ends with roles set: Jason and Coach Hedge defend the Argo II while Leo repairs; Frank, Hazel, and Nico head into Venice’s maze to find the book’s owner at La Casa Nera, threading through disguised monsters under a heavy, storm-laden sky and Nico’s warning of pervasive death.