XI

On a Kansas highway, eidolons possess Jason Grace and Percy Jackson, turning them against each other. Piper McLean narrowly avoids being trampled, tries to break the compulsion, and identifies the entities as Underworld spirits. Using precise charmspeak, she coordinates with the pegasus Blackjack, who knocks out Percy, ending the duel before either boy is killed.

Piper loads the unconscious boys onto Blackjack and returns to the Argo II. In sickbay, Coach Hedge treats their injuries. Jason and Percy revive with hazy memories and apologize. The crew convenes in the mess hall, where Piper recounts Bacchus’s advice, Gaea’s trap, and the eidolon possession.

They conclude Leo’s earlier attack on the Romans was also eidolon-driven, though they doubt the legion will believe them. Jason warns that Octavian is likely seizing power and that Roman eagles can track them. Accepting they’ll be considered outlaws if they head to the ancient lands, they decide to continue regardless, since the legion won’t pursue across the Atlantic.

Discussing Ella’s prophecy, they focus on the twin giants, Otis and Ephialtes, and Piper’s visions suggesting Bacchus’s necessary aid. Piper reveals Gaea demanded the blood of one male and one female demigod. Percy recalls Polybotes wanting his blood to awaken Gaea, reinforcing fears of a blood-rite tied to the giants and the Doors of Death.

They choose to follow Bacchus’s lead and seek Phorcys in Atlanta, despite uncertainty about a sea god’s role inland. As plans are set for arrival by noon the next day, Piper, unnerved, announces that the eidolons are still in the room—implying the threat persists aboard the Argo II.