The Wand of Nightmares

Unhappy Hypnos

Bethany's p.o.v.

We went up to the Big House to look for the centaur. We did get a few odd stares when Danny walked holding a bag of crushed poppies, Isabelle tore down every missing person sign in sight, and Justin carried Gracie. So much for keeping a low profile. When we got there, Chiron had a look of bewilderment on his face.
"What in the world?"
"Sir," Justin began,"there's something weird going on."
"No kidding, you probably have the oddest collection..."
"Not that, well, sort of. I think Hypnos is up to something." Chiron folded his arms and raised his eyebrows as Justin continued.
"You remember yesterday when Leah was found asleep and Gracie was missing? Well, now Leah's awake, and we've found Gracie, but she's unconscious. We also found in her possession a bag of crushed poppies, the flower which symbolizes Hypnos."
"And you're point is?"
"I believe that Gracie received the poppies from her mother, Demeter and then was instructed by Hypnos to do this." Chiron nodded.
"Interesting theory, but I don't see any proof you can offer." Aleigh stepped up.
"Proof or not, something's up. Two demigods don't just fall unconscious for no reason."
"Quote right, Ms. Hale, you do have a point there. And if your friend, Justin is correct, then I have great fear."
We all looked at him quizzically.
"I suppose it is my turn to explain. You see about twenty years ago, Zeus finally discovered that Hypnos had tricked him the second time, as he was already aware of the first. So he, being Zeus, took his wand of sleep, and hid it on an island surrounded by monsters and dangerous traps. Now, if you are correct, he may want it back."
"Why would he have waited this long?" Chiron walked back toward the window.
"Because the risk of going after it is great. Something must have happened to make him want it every more. And of Demeter is on his side, who knows who else...." He looked down.
"Justin," he began," I think it's time you meet the Oracle."
"The Oracle," Justin's eyes widened,"Sir, what are you suggesting?"
"I am 'suggesting' that it may be time for a quest."