Last Shadow || Deception Book III

Chapter 14 Pt. II

"Nice decor in here," I smiled sharply as my instincts kicked in. Dealing with immortals. That was something I could do. "They add a nice touch."

Antaeus peered at me curiously, his eyes flickering with hungering excitement. "And who are you, little demigod?"

I sketched a bow, hearing the sharp intake from my brother at my back. "Rianna Claire, daughter of Hecate, at your service."

"Ahahaha!" Antaeus bellowed. "A child of Hecate!" He grinned, revealing a row of sharp yellow teeth. "I haven't seen one in ages. Are you here for a challenge!?"

"I would love to challenge you," I said. "Unfortunately, I'm here on behalf of Lord Kronos to request safe passage through your territory for our army. I know that you have no love of the gods, a common trait that we all share, so I hope that you will support us in our endeavour to return the rightful king to his throne. We're to bring the war to our enemies doorstep," I added as he pinned me with his gaze. "And the fastest way to transport our army is through the labyrinth. However, we would like to request your permission to pass through."

"I see," the giant mused after a long pause of silence. "And what do you offer me in return?"

I smiled. "Why, entertainment, of course."

"Entertainment?"

I met his sharp smile with my own. "Entertainment. Our leader here-" I beckoned Luke forward with a wave of his hand, and he strolled in, looking like the epitome of the army leader that he was- "has prepared a group of arena fighters for your entertainment."

"Luke Castellan, son of Hermes." Luke bit out that last part as if it physically pained him. "My lieutenant is correct. We've come here to seek your permission to pass, and we've prepared a group of willing gladiators for your amusement."

"Hmmm," Antaeus thought for a moment as we waited with bated breath.

Say yes, say yes, I prayed, so we'll be delayed for as long as possible.

"It's a deal!" he announced suddenly, startling me out of my thoughts. Luke and I shared a glance and both of us bowed.

"Thank you for your generosity," I replied, relief flooding through me.

"But on one condition," Antaeus added, crossing his tattooed arms across his chest.

That relief vanished like morning dew in the sun and I tensed, already knowing what he'd ask.

"What condition?" Luke got out, his eyes flickering. "Name your price."

"Oh, it's not a big deal," the giant rumbled. His eyes fixed on me once again. "I want her to fight."

"What?" Luke said after a heartbeat.

"You heard me," Antaeus repeated. He grinned at me hungrily. "I want the girl to fight."

"N-"

"Of course," I interrupted smoothly before Luke could finish his declination. "I'll fight. But you have to swear to allow us passage through. I'll even give you the fight you want, with me," I added. "For the closing act, of course. I win, you let us go. I lose, you can add my skull to your delightful decor."

"What the fu-"

"Deal!" the giant roared before Luke could turn on me. "Where is the entertainment?"

"Right here," Nicole called, emerging from the tunnel. "The rest of the army is starting to trickle in. We've got the gladiators with us."

"A child of the underworld," Antaeus remarked as his eyes skimmed over Nicole. "Welcome, welcome."

Nicole grimaced before plastering a smile on her face. "Delighted to make your acquaintance."