26
Once it’s decided, Themis is all business.
“This is a death match,” she announces. “There will be no interference.” She casts a dark look at Hermes and Hades, but I’m more worried about Val. He doesn’t have a voice, but he doesn’t need one; his emotions are plain on his face. He would happily kill Zee for me...if he could.
But only I can do this.
“Contestants.” Themis beckons to us, bringing me and Mr. Zee within reaching distance of one another. We face off, my cheeks still hot with rage, his red with ambrosia. “Acknowledge each other,” Themis commands.
I spit at Zeus, and he flicks me off. Apparently, this is enough to cover the bare minimum of “acknowledging” each other. Themis backs away, edging to the side of the stage.
“To prevent any aid being given to either opponent, the
