chapter 37

The Argo, known as the largest Greek ship, boasted a crew of 50 skilled rowers. Even with the fastest vessel, it was impossible to catch up to it. Cyd, pondering his next move, was startled when a magnificent white horse with wings descended from the clouds before him.

"A horse...?" Cyd hesitated, reaching out tentatively.

The horse nuzzled Cyd's hand affectionately.

"It's really you! How did you get here?" Cyd exclaimed, embracing the horse's neck warmly.

"I'm here because Poseidon-sama sent me," the horse conveyed to Cyd.

Understanding that Poseidon had likely been persuaded due to Cyd's dire situation, Cyd mounted the horse, extending a hand to Medusa.

"It's... Poseidon's warhorse!" Medusa exclaimed, puzzled. "But how...?"

"I think I know why," Cyd said, helping Medusa onto the horse. "Athena must have convinced Poseidon. After all, my guess was close enough."

[ "I want Cyd to help Jason obtain the Golden Fleece early, then I'll give Jason fake Golden Fleece."]

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Poseidon sent his warhorse to expedite Cyd's journey across the sea. Though initially hesitant, Medusa found herself caught in the whirlwind of events alongside Cyd, unexpectedly impacted by the intervention of Poseidon, a god who typically didn't involve himself with mortal affairs.

"Let's fly!" Cyd grinned, urging the horse forward.

With a powerful beat of its snow-white wings, the horse ascended into the clouds, carrying Cyd securely on its back. Cyd, once a timid youth, now faced the unknown with newfound courage.

"Now, let's figure out how to get the Golden Fleece," Cyd mused, taking advantage of the moment.

Jason's success in obtaining the Golden Fleece hinged on Medea's various magical interventions. However, Cyd realized that Jason's lack of musical talent, coupled with Apollo's disdain for his singing, posed a significant obstacle. The plan to steal the Golden Fleece also seemed untenable, given the consequences. Despite the challenges, Cyd remained determined to succeed, fueled by Athena's relentless schemes.

"Do you have a plan?" Medusa asked, turning to Cyd.

"It doesn't matter. Just trust me," Cyd reassured her, rubbing her head. "You only need to watch my back."

"Okay, but I'll protect you," Medusa vowed.

Cyd sighed, realizing he needed to confront the princess who had yet to reveal her true nature.

"Jason, do you see anything flying?" a hero on The Argo asked Jason.

"Anything?" Jason raised an eyebrow, seeing nothing but blue sky and fluffy clouds.

"Anything...?" The hero scratched his head.

"Perhaps you're too anxious. After all, we need to set sail soon. We might encounter a hostile kingdom," Jason said, patting the hero's back with a smile.

"You truly exude an air of victory," the hero admired.

"I'm just fetching some wool," Jason shrugged casually.

This was a lie! In truth, Jason was anxious. Without Hercules to aid him in defeating the dragon guarding the Golden Fleece, his chances seemed slim.

"Goodness, how unsightly," Athena murmured, observing Jason's trembling legs atop The Argo's mast. "He still seeks assistance from others instead of relying on his own wit. For the first time, I regret my judgment as the Goddess of Wisdom."

To the gods, the world was a stage, and humanity were the actors. They sought to create compelling narratives, but Jason's dependence on others disappointed Athena. However, a new figure had caught her attention - Cyd, a self-made individual she admired. Standing behind him, she resolved to guide him, withholding her blessings until the time was right.

"Cyd, I'm eager to see what kind of hero you'll become."