ch 32 Finding clues

The morning sun spilled through the trees, waking the group with its gentle warmth. Cordelia stretched, her muscles sore but invigorated from the previous night's rest. After a quick breakfast of granola bars and chilled juice from her magical fridge, they gathered around the campfire to strategize their next move.

"Alright, team," Cordelia said, her voice steady. "We need to focus on finding the next clue that will lead us to the Golden Fleece. According to the Oracle's prophecy, it's hidden in the ruins of an ancient temple nearby."

Annabeth flipped through her notes, glancing up occasionally to gauge everyone's reactions. "The ruins are rumored to be guarded by powerful spirits and illusions. We need to stay sharp and keep our wits about us."

Luke nodded, his expression serious. "I suggest we split into pairs to cover more ground. We can regroup if we find anything."

"Good idea," Bianca chimed in. "Nico and I can check the eastern side of the ruins. We've been training together; our familiars might help us sense any dangers."

"Annabeth and I will take the northern side," Luke added. "We'll keep an eye out for any hidden passages or clues."

Cordelia looked at Clarisse, who was sharpening her sword with determination. "What about us?"

"You and I will cover the southern side," Clarisse replied. "We'll handle whatever comes our way."

With their plan set, they gathered their gear and set out toward the ancient temple, excitement and tension buzzing in the air. The path to the ruins was overgrown, thick with vines and wildflowers, but the beauty of the forest was mesmerizing.

As they approached the temple, the imposing structure came into view, half-buried under years of moss and ivy. The crumbling stone walls whispered of a forgotten past, and a chill ran down Cordelia's spine.

"Stay close," she warned as they stepped inside the dimly lit temple. The air felt heavy with magic, and the faint echoes of footsteps could be heard.

As they explored, Cordelia felt a tingling in her trident, signaling that something was nearby. "Over here!" she called, leading the way to an ornate archway adorned with intricate carvings of sea creatures.

Bubbles and Flame floated beside her, their presence comforting. "What do you think it is?" Cordelia asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Looks like a doorway," Clarisse said, examining the carvings. "But it might require a special key or code to open."

Annabeth stepped forward, her eyes scanning the engravings. "These symbols—they represent different elements. Water, fire, earth, and air. If we can figure out the right combination, it might reveal the next clue."

Cordelia focused on the symbols, her heart racing. "Let's try it. We know water and fire are key elements for us."

As they worked together, inputting the symbols in various combinations, the ground began to tremble. Suddenly, a low rumble echoed through the temple, and the archway glowed faintly before revealing a hidden passageway.

"Got it!" Annabeth exclaimed, her eyes shining with excitement.

They stepped through the archway into a small chamber filled with ancient scrolls and artifacts. On a pedestal in the center lay a glowing orb, pulsating with energy.

"This must be it—the next clue!" Luke said, reaching for the orb. As his fingers brushed against it, the orb illuminated the room, revealing more symbols on the walls.

"Look!" Cordelia pointed. "Those look like constellations."

Nico stepped closer, his familiar Raven perched protectively on his shoulder. "This one," he said, tracing a constellation with his finger, "is associated with the Blood Moon. It could be a sign of what's to come."

The atmosphere shifted, a sense of urgency creeping in. They had to act quickly before the titans took advantage of the upcoming Blood Moon.

"Let's take this back to camp," Cordelia suggested, clutching the orb tightly. "We can decipher it there."

As they retraced their steps back through the temple, they felt a surge of energy, knowing they were one step closer to their goal. Each clue brought them closer to finding the Golden Fleece and saving Thalia.

Once outside, they regrouped with the others and shared their findings. With renewed determination, they prepared for the challenges ahead, ready to face whatever awaited them on their quest.