Nico’s first jump lands the trio and the Athena Parthenos on a cruise ship in the middle of the Atlantic and then inside an empty restaurant in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, Reyna’s home, where she experienced her “darkest, most painful memory” (166). Nico immediately needs to sleep, so Reyna summons Aurum and Argentum for guard duty. She wonders if their landing in Puerto Rico connects to her lending strength to Nico, who himself is drawn to dark, painful thoughts. She tries to focus on positive associations with her home but feels on edge. Adding to her sense of unease, the restaurant is closed for a private party. Reyna reflects on Nico’s loneliness and promises herself to ensure that his bravery is recognized after their mission. Suddenly, she notices a dark shape moving on a balcony below. Silver darts strike her and then Hedge in their necks. As she fades into unconsciousness, she feels a sack placed over her head.

Reyna wakes up with her hands bound and tied to a chair and the sack still over her head. When she hears someone coming, she feigns sleep and then uses her advantage to overcome her captor—Thalia, leader of the Hunters of Artemis.