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On the fog-shrouded deck, Chrysaor patrols the captured demigods as his dolphin-warrior crew loots the Argo II. When Annabeth recognizes his accent, Chrysaor confirms he is Medusa’s son and Poseidon’s child, overshadowed by his brother Pegasus. He boasts of centuries as the Mare Nostrum’s premier pirate, claiming all aboard as his plunder.

Coach Hedge is dragged up, gagged, and tied with the ship’s other spoils. Chrysaor explains his hybrid dolphin crew’s origins and claims they fear only one absent threat. The rest of the demigods are hauled up: Jason is unconscious; Piper and Hazel are bound and gagged; Frank is missing, with stung guards hinting he escaped.

Chrysaor announces he will sell most prisoners to Circe but keep Annabeth and Percy for a high-paying, unnamed goddess who wants them alive, not necessarily unharmed. Seizing the moment, Piper faints dramatically and Hazel thrashes, creating a distraction. Percy draws Riptide and attacks.

Chrysaor proves an exceptional swordsman. Despite Percy’s experience and recalled training, the pirate’s speed and unsettling golden gorgon mask rattle him. With Annabeth threatened nearby, Percy fights defensively and is swiftly disarmed; Riptide is knocked overboard. Unwinded, Chrysaor levels his golden blade at Percy’s chest and orders the heroes chained for delivery to Gaea’s forces.