“That sounds accurate. You said you have information. What kind?”
“Before his death, I told Apollo about the snake and the traps in the first trial. I told him to be wary of the other players and of the bold political moves he was making.”
“Who? Who did he need to be wary of?”
“Not everyone in the Academy is what they seem. He trusted people he shouldn’t have. Friends that betrayed him.”
I grab her by the wrist. “Who?”
She shakes her head, either too scared to reveal their names or because she doesn’t really know them. I tighten my grip. “Why did you call me here?”
“Because my visions have started again and this time they involve you.”
“What have you seen?”
She looks carefully around the garden. “I know what you’re planning with the men in your alliance. I’ve seen your relationship and where it goes, but the consequences are extreme. You won’t get away with it and shame will rain down upon you and your whole family.” She eyes me carefully. “Even if you win the Trials, your actions will bring nothing but pain and failure.”
“So, what? You think I should back away? Drop the idea of my harem?” I don’t know if it’s possible even if I wanted to. I’ve started to care for these men. Even Thor.
“No,” she says to my surprise. “I think you should do it. Fight for the change your brother wanted. Just be aware of what’s coming and be careful of the men you choose.”
I nod.
“You’re smart, Artemis, so much smarter than your brother, who was filled with pride and competition. If you do this right, build a strong, loyal harem that will fight by your side, then it doesn’t matter what anyone thinks.”
“And what about the Trials? Have you seen who wins?”
She shakes her head. “No, but I don’t sense that death is coming for you. Not the same way. You’ll be made an example by whoever it is that killed your brother. Just be careful.”
Cassandra reaches into her pocket and holds out a charm. I take it and stare, astonished. It’s the other half of the charm I wear around my neck. The moon to match the sun given to me as a child. “He gave me that before the first trial and told me to give it to you if he didn’t make it through.”
“He knew.”
“Yes, he knew. And he also knew it would be up to you to continue the fight.”
The woman stands and walks away, leaving me on the bench alone. No, I think, holding up the charm and fitting it into the matching piece around my neck. I’m not alone. I have my family, my brother’s support, and four warriors at my side.
To be continued.
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