‘So what’s this?’ Virgo said, looking at the map. ‘You’re planning a trip! Outstanding, I have many thoughts to make it highly optimal – not least as I will take charge of the catering. Hot dogs perhaps? Are there any kennels near the campsite?’

Elliot groaned. What had he let himself in for?

He went to close the door, only to see Zeus sitting astride Pegasus in the fields beyond. The King of the Gods saluted with a wink. Elliot nodded and returned the salute, before Zeus spurred Pegasus on and rose high into the sky.

The King of the Gods did a few victory loops, before flying up, up and away until he was nothing more than a bright speck in the sky.

Elliot Hooper smiled and closed his front door. He was ready. He was ready for a new beginning. He was ready for a new life. He was ready for whatever the next chapter of his story would bring.

And he was ready for whoever might knock at his door.

THE END

(Really)

What’s What

What’s What

ELLIOT HOOPER

Category: Mortal

Realm: Earth (currently Underworld)

Powers: 1) Current guardian of Earth, Air and Water Stones 2) Teenage temper (increasing)

This thirteen-year-old mortal male has defeated overwhelming adversity to acquire three CHAOS STONES. The recent loss of his mother, Josie (deceased), has led him to THANATOS in order to claim the terms of their deal, exchanging the gems for the soul of his mother. Scent: still pungent.

VIRGO

Category: Constellation (suspended)/Mortal (temporary?)

Realm: Earth (formerly Elysium, currently Underworld)

Powers: 1) Constellation travel (suspended) 2) Consistent correctness (self-proclaimed)

Presently incarcerated in Tartarus, the former CONSTELLATION is an inmate of the infernal realm along with her fellow Councillors. Owner of a pet gorgon (disputed) and erstwhile companion to ELLIOT. If she ever finds him.

ZEUS

Category: Olympian, King of the Gods (retired)

Realm: Mount Olympus

Powers: 1) Patriarch of Olympian family 2) Putting a ring on it

Regrouping with his family on MOUNT OLYMPUS after ELLIOT’s desertion, Zeus is readying for battle against THANATOS. Chances of success are not dissimilar to a snowball’s in Tartarus.

HERMES

Category: Olympian, Messenger God

Realm: Various (Underworld access pending, currently Mount Olympus)

Powers: 1) Boom 2) Bosh 3) ’Ave it

Recuperating from an extended period in a coma, the Messenger God is determined to find ELLIOT and return him to his friends. Also desires ‘banging abs’ and is working towards the same.

ATHENE

Category: Olympian, Goddess of Wisdom

Realm: Mount Olympus

Powers: 1) Infinite wisdom 2) Transformational powers 3) Annoying her sister Aphrodite

The brains of the operation. And this operation desperately requires brains.

APHRODITE

Category: Olympian, Goddess of Love

Realm: Mount Olympus

Powers: 1) Potent potions 2) Love Taser 3) Everything, we just love her . . .

More a lover than a fighter, Aphrodite is also a fighter. DAEMONS, beware.

HEPHAESTUS

Category: Olympian, God of the Forge

Realm: Mount Olympus

Powers: Weaponry

The God of the Forge brings renewed meaning to the concept of ‘a little less conversation’. Weapons expert.

HEROES

Category: Hero (duh)