Here, a shorter chapter.

Chapter Twenty

Mistaken

Thanatos

Thanatos sat in his study, mauling over the lists of the dead he had placed in the Asphodel Fields. Some were not worthy of such a place of peace. Others… others were too worthy and needed to go to Elysium. It was a straining matter but Thanatos did not have the power to condemn. Persephone now did but she was as stupid as they came. He would need to train her soon… for they were running out of time. Perhaps, if she would listen, she could just parrot his judgments? Nay, the Fates would never allow it. They would want her to make her own decisions.

Everyone would be going to Elysium.

Thanatos rolled his eyes, ringing the servant's bell. He needed a glass of wine; it was something in which he rarely partook. He could feel his blood boiling. Besides this, Arien's case… he had gone through all the levels of books he had and there were no loopholes. Now that she was dead the promise was completely sealed. There were… strange options, yes… returning her to life was one, but what was a weak mortal life (as hers would be full of illness with that same body) going to do? Give her a few more years? And it would be a partial life. No one would accept her into their world and, besides, the Fates may be picky once again. They did so love to foil Thanatos's ideas. As God of Peaceful Death, they often made sure he was not too peaceful.

Noting that no one had come yet, though not caring it was the middle of the afternoon, Thanatos rung again. He pursed his lips, setting the list gently down. Too gently. It was a sign of his irritation, that he did not toss it, for tossing it would have been too rash for the type of man Thanatos was. Instead, he treated the current list he held as tenderly as possible.

Arien

"Do you always work without a break to eat, Lord Thanatos?" Arien asked as she lifted a brow and her lips curled into a smile. "Ah, you did call, yes?" She, obviously, was always in the Underworld and directly served the queen. But her position - though informal - had grown… more important? Without stepping on Hecate's toes, of course… or Thanatos'. Then again, when it came to stepping on his toes there was less danger to be had. Even so she was not one of the people expected to answer his summons for a servant. The reason it was she was fairly simple: the opportunity was presented and she took it.

Her finger tapped lightly on the jug she held before she tilted her head to the side, thoughtful. "Lady Persephone likely won't be needing my help much today I do not believe, before you ask. I am no longer allowed in her room, we were dismissed. She was called... rather abruptly not fifteen minutes ago. I do not recognize the woman but... I would assume she has enough authority to order us?" Did she really need to have a conversation with him? No, not really. Seemed reasonable enough to explain to him in an indirect manner why she was around. She had figured out over time that Hades was not around. Who told her? It wasn't that hard to determine. Persephone was the main source of that knowledge. And as one of Persephone's servants, it was only logical she would have some sort of inkling into what went on in that girl's head. She had heard nothing Rhea had told the girl but Persephone had been a whirlwind as she made her way down the hall.

"But, she certainly made her way quickly to...? I am not certain, my lord, but when we cannot find her, she certainly is known to be there. From Lord Aidoneus' extended absence... perhaps he has at last returned?" Thanatos had obviously been trying to hide the fact Hades wasn't around. "I would be correct in presuming she knows him by his name Lord Hades? I would presume that was who she was going to meet when she paid no mind to any sleeping ears as she called for him." She tapped her finger to her lips. "Oh, but you wanted something. My sincerest apologizes! I completely forgot." She smiled.

"Wine, my lord?" Wasn't that hard to figure. She offered the jug, the cup in the other hand. "Will Lord Aidoneus at last place judgment or will you delay it?" her voice had softened some. She did not know what he would do, just how serious he was. And she rarely had time to speak with him anymore. And she did wish to speak with him. But she no longer had his attention.

"Zeus!"

As the voice erupted in the room, the golden god jumped in alarm as if a spanked child doing something very naughty. And as he looked up towards his elder brother, his face was a mixture of embarrassment and irritation, seemingly not able to decide whether he should be angry at the interruption or feel ashamed at himself for the elder god catching him in the act. He wasn't even sure if he should feel bad for what he had been caught in the middle of doing. But the dark god did not look in the least bit amused and, perhaps, he did see a faint twitch of his brother's lips as the nymph quickly slid away. Her silvery-blue hair shimmered down her back as she giggled and looked appreciatively at the tall male god who paused in the doorway then moved forward with his richly colored garments whispering around him.

All the sons of Cronus were such lovely creatures. Every woman, mortal or immortal, could not help but lust after these beings and the eldest, a tall, handsome creature with a fatherly manner was impossible to win over. She was not certain if he was even still a virgin. It was a pity, really, that such a man was entirely celibate. It wasn't as if he couldn't have any woman he wanted and many would just jump at the chance to at least sleep with him for one night. But, the youngest was certainly the truest prize. He was still young and gaining his manhood but his beauty was certainly unrivaled. He would grow into a being of great beauty unparalleled by any. He was a magnificent prize and, to top it off, he was a lustful young man with a hunger for pleasure. Sadly, he was loyal to this man who, she was certain, tried to instill in his younger brother love and loyalty. He was a silly man, thinking he could curb the desires of a god. How long could he last before it grew too difficult? Her fingers brushed the cheek of the young god before they brushed over his lips. "Do not forget me, yes?" she cooed with a slow wink.

"Shoo," Hades urged her and she scooped up her clothing and quickly dressed, backing away. With a light laugh, she bounded backwards onto the windowsill then swung off. It was a pretty drop to the ocean but she landed in the great expanse of the ocean just outside. Hades did not even wait to hear the splash as he moved forward to his brother and slid his fingers through his hair to smooth it out.

"Must you play with the children of Oceanus, dear brother?" he asked with a sigh as he readjusted his clothing and re-clasped it at his shoulder.

Zeus frowned up at him. "I was not doing anything wrong, Hades," he protested as his elder brother pulled back and sat on the soft couch beneath the broad window. The cool sea breeze ruffled his short, dark hair and partially hid his eyes for a moment.

"Of course not," he agreed with a gentle smile. "I would not doubt you, Zeus." His lips twitched some in a broader smile as his hand pulled him closer from behind his head and pressed his lips to his brow then ruffled his hair with a laugh. "I would not doubt your good will in the least."

Zeus shook his head and pulled from his brother's grip and brushed his hair back with a slightly frustrated look.

"Do you expect me to remain here forever brother? Will you damn me forever to this little hovel and only a tiny piece of the land outside? Why must you imprison me here when you swear it is for my own safety? Must I be a coward and hide from danger that I have never known, never experienced, but I see always written in your face? I am not a fool, Hades! Never make me out as one! I am neither weak nor powerless, as you would know. Do you doubt me and lock me up in this place while you keep secrets that you cannot hide in your eyes? And now... one of my only companions is gone... gone... missing! Your and mother's visits grow much less frequent and you... every day your face grows older, brother! You cannot damn me to a life of cowardice hiding from my father Cronus!"

The room was dim; it had been dim for quite some time. The massive windows had been covered in thick curtains. Only the faintest glow from about their edges showed to allow the murkiness of the room to be seen. Dust ghosted in the air and swirled when passed through... and it was eerily quiet. Only a few came here now and most of them the brothers of his father, his uncles. Few wished to face this one who sat upon the throne and now very rarely left it. Hades had learned by now that it was in his silence there was most danger. Few could comprehend the nature of his father's madness but paranoia, fear, pride... all of them twisted and ravaged what had once been his stable foundation and joy. Now he was... an enemy. A danger, one who would destroy all that remained of what he loved. And that was what he desired... if he could find it.

"My son... Hades, come to your father..." Hades did not allow his steps to falter as he approached, chin tilted back with his face neutral. "You have come to see me... it brings me such joy..." Cronus lifted his head, those hollow eyes following his every movement. It was eerie, that gaze. It was so blank, so hollow, but completely filled as if a void. One could be lost in those eyes, and to be lost in those eyes would be your undoing. Hades watched him unwaveringly but did not meet his gaze. "You are too far. Come closer, my son..."

His clothing swayed some as he made his way up the steps, crouching down at his father's side and bowing his head. He could feel that cool, almost skeletal hand brush over his head, sliding down his dark locks that had so mimicked his then brush his fingers down over his cheek. He forced himself not to react as those cool fingers sent a tingling through his skin. His father was searching, trying to reach into his mind and extract what information he desired. Hades closed his eyes, not fighting him. "You would never betray me, would you, my boy?" he breathed, his voice lowering to a breathy sound. Empty. Hades dipped his head further, eyes parting only a fraction.

"I would never betray you, father. I am naught but your royal son..."

"Never again will the gods reveal the true hand of their might nor fight upon the earth. A veil was cast over the land as god and Titan flexed the full might of the power. Pity upon the earth that trembled beneath such cosmic strength that even the stars would be crushed to dust within their palm. Let no mortal or immortal forget the terrible cost that comes when gods have no restraint upon their terrible presences. Never again will a god walk upon the earth in the full might of his person nor exercise what powers he possesses. He shall not raise his might against another god lest the world bend beneath them. For when at their full power, death and destruction follow in their wake..."

The earth gave a terrible shudder, a deep rumbling rising from its depths. The Titan shifted, body twisting back as his lips curled down in frustration. But the land answered to the hand of the god, air shimmering like electricity as power rippled through it. His power crackled about his raised arm, dancing at his fingertips about the dented and dirtied armor that was fastened to his body. But he was not entirely whole as he stood before the elder being, one of the Titans, his uncle. The steady drip of blood pattered on the ground, falling from a wound at his brow. The crimson blood slid down his flesh beneath his helm, beading at his jaw before it fell to the ground. His sword was buried in the ground before him, the tip having been driven in it by his own strength. His opposite arm, his left, hung uselessly at his side with a deep gash cut through the thick metal and into the muscle of his bicep. The flesh beneath was exposed and bleeding steadily as the crimson fluid slid down his arms, caked on his armor. It appeared to be his greatest wound except for the state of his breastplate. It was crushed inwards into his chest, his breath ragged and labored. He probably had a few broken bones inside. He closed one eye as a bead of blood slid down it, then running over his cheek.

But the source of his concentration was soon revealed as the deep roar of the earth escalated and opened in a great, gaping maw. The earth tumbled into darkness, opening the land fully beneath the feet of the Titan. But the Titan was more frustrated than anything else. He sought sanctuary beneath the earth and the sky, not so much as glancing at the emptiness beneath his feet. His head tilted forward, face somewhat hidden by the helm resting on his head. His arms crossed over his breast, sword sheathed at his side. "A nice little trick," he commented lazily. "To be expected from a son of Cronus. Learn it from Poseidon?" His fingers twitched upwards and a massive boulder rose from the wreckage and hurled itself towards the injured god. The god ducked down, nearly throwing himself to the ground as he rolled away. He ignored the pain that shot up through his body at the abuse but he grit his teeth and pulled into a semi-crouched position. The boulder crashed to the ground not far from where he had been moments before. The Titan clapped his hands mockingly without a word before another rose from the earth and flung itself at him. He ducked once more; he was suddenly very aware of the fact his sword was a good distance from him - as was the Titan's plan. The moment he lunged, so too did the Titan. His hand wound around the hilt as his enemy barreled down at him, hacking down at his head. But in that split second moment when their bodies hurled into motion, the impact was great, causing the world to shudder beneath the force of it. Both entities stared into each other's faces before they thrust themselves back, swords sliding through the air fluidly.

"Come now, your antics are becoming very frustrating... little boys should be grateful to their elders. Not waving around little weapons that they can hurt themselves on." This battle had been going on for far to long. The two entities having fought none-stop for... he could not remember how long. A handful of years? And it was beginning to take its toll. But the earth was far more wounded than his own body. And frustratingly, the Titan had far less wounds than he. The god grit his teeth together again but said nothing as he readied his sword once more, only able to use one arm now. He dipped his head and crouched, revealing his readiness to fight. But, the Titan merely lowered his sword without sheathing it, lifting his hand so his palm faced outwards.

"Let's end this game. It is about time naughty children are punished." And as he spoke, energy crackled around his fingers and heated the air around it to scorching temperatures. And it explored outwards, the air boiling beneath the great heat as if a mirage, something, he knew, would burn him alive in his armor. Thus, he acted immediately, the earth rising up before him just as the impact hit, causing the mass of solid stone to shatter into thousands of pieces. He lifted his arm to protect his face as he was thrown backwards. His heels dug into the ground, digging up great amounts of dirt and throwing it back. The air blistered with horrible heat, causing sweat to form down his face. But at the same moment he was flung backwards and the debris of the explosion hung in the air with slowing time before his eyes, he swung his sword back and threw it with all of his strength towards his enemy. But he should have dodged it. The Titan, however, was two prideful in his abilities, smirking in triumph as the sword spun through the air towards him. Thus, he erected a barrier around himself, something that was a mastery of his own enemy, the son of his brother. And the god was prepared for him. As the shield flared into existence, he focused his own power at a single point rather than attempting to crush the shield. As the sword spun, it pierced through the shield, causing the Titan's eyes to bulge. But with the force behind it, the sword drove clean through his breast, cutting through the metal of the breastplate like a knife through butter. It was at that moment that his body crumpled, consumed by the gaping maw of the earth. And as the god drew in the remains of his strength, the earth shuddered once more and closed its mouth, utterly encasing the fallen Titan.

But as he turned, he heard a shout, a cry of fury as his name was torn from the lips of one who hurled towards him, weapon whistling through the air to cleave down at him from above. A bead of sweat ran down his jaw and his bare hand - weaponless - lifted towards his enemy.

Damn it... where are you, Zeus?

"Poseidon!" The voice rose as a horrified and shocked scream as the silvery-haired god staggered, the shock of the blast rocking his chest and crushing his breastplate. He collapsed to his knees…

...the barriers began to waver and if they broke they would be utterly exposed. And so as it shattered they could see that triumphant smile of the enemy, as his efforts were true. But he underestimated what he had unleashed, doubting the power and superior cunning of the young gods, especially the one named hero...

...his face was dead as he stood before his mother, sword clutched firmly in his hand. It was a good sword, but it no longer felt as if it belonged in his hand. It was not his sword, it would never be. But he stood before her with the tip pressed against the ground, his hand loose around it as he gazed down at her. "Hades, no, do not do this!" the voice rose in desperation as his hand tightened around the hilt, swinging it upwards with his lips pressing into a hard line. It sailed back before he cleaved downwards...

Persephone

Persephone was curled in Hades' arms, their hands linked together… for hours. She could not sleep, but instead, only watched his face. He started off so peacefully, so lovely with his lashes kissing his cheeks, his lips parted in breath. She was studying his features: a long nose, thin lips, and sharp eyes. She knew what hid behind those lids: such depths that she could not fathom! Only hoped to one day come close.

The peace did not last long, though. He slowly, but surely grew strained… she could tell by the tensing of his muscles, the clenched skin in his jaw. He was growing more and more frustrated, sad maybe? She didn't know. Persephone only wished she had use of her hands, to caress his face and have him wake to her, but his own fingers were holding hers so tightly…

Leaning up, the child pressed a hesitant, girlish kiss to the pained look marring him, slowly hooking one of her legs over his hips, holding him in the only embrace she could.

"Hades… it's alright!" she squeaked, not all too quiet, willing to disturb him if it meant helping him. She didn't know what to say, he was so far gone in dreams. She only wished the night terror would leave him. She kissed his face again, closing her own eyes. She heard a noise leave his mouth, a mumbled calling of something, and the girl hushed him. She rocked back and forth, hoping the motion would allow his eyes to open. And they did.

Persephone's flushed, unsure of what to do now that she had actually accomplished her goal. "Hades, you're awake! For now, yes?" She was squeaking, embarrassed. The last time he had seen her they had shared such an intimate moment together. A painful one. Now, what could they do? So she only asked what was an obvious enough question to start with.

"What was your night terror about?" Her eyes were wide as she looked up into Hades' eyes. She couldn't get used to them being open! "Are you alright? Do you feel alright?" She was worried he could feel her heart though their clothes: it was beating like a rabbit's. She didn't want to cry anymore but she wasn't sure if she should feel joyful. She didn't know if Hades' was still hurting as terribly as he seemed to be when he had awoken to her. She didn't want to bring him to tears again either! Certainly not!

Still such a silly child, she buried her face in his chest. "I tried to wake you but you very adamantly refused me." She trembled against him only ever so slightly. It was so different to be held like this, and now she understood his reasons. Persephone found herself more comfortable then she had ever been… and more afraid as well. The child thought herself to be walking on glass – a wrong step would ruin him and she could not, would not, do it again.

"Are you feeling better now, though, my lord? Even if your dream was not good, do you feel rested?" Her words came out as a mumble against his cloth, a bit over-anxious as well. She knew if she wished, she could start to weep again. They had not quite finished their desperate kissing, their desperate words of affection, though she had yet to tell him she loved him. It was enough, though; off the emotions she did not want to feel. She only wanted to feel joy at their reunion. Perhaps they could now?

"Won't you tell me what now plagues your head?" Maybe it was a nightmare about her, Persephone thought with a pained gasp. Now she pulled back to stare at Hades', her wide eyes naked with emotion. She couldn't bear to be what kept stabbing at him! Her kisses resumed upon her husband's jaw, fluttering like panicked butterfly kisses.

Hades

Hades blinked up at her groggily as she spoke earnestly, her voice little and embarrassed. Waking up was always the hardest part, really. Once he could actually sleep. The moment when you have slept well or haven't but to pass to wakefulness from sleep was difficult. Especially when sleep still tugged at the mind and body without fully releasing it. Now, however, he had his wife gazing down at him with obvious anxiety and her question revealed why. His dark lashes lowered some over his eyes before they rolled upwards as if gazing at the headboard behind him. He didn't say anything at first, memories flowing into his mind in broken pieces. Dreams, was it? No, memories. His eyes focused on her again, though, knowing those little blue orbs were anxiously reading his every move.

At last he lifted his hands from hers, gripping her cheeks and drawing her down. His lips touched her brow then her nose, finally settling on her lips. "You are so loud for it being the morning," he murmured, recalling her little kisses that had been planted on his face in what had been to console him. He looked at her solemnly and released her face. "You can kiss me again," he said with a slight nod of his head. He tilted his head back again some to expose more of the lower half of his face.

She was asking about what his nightmare was about, though. Would that be considered a nightmare or just guilt? Perhaps not guilt, though, yes, it likely was. The child was in a panic. He thought about it before his arms moved to his sides, elbows pressing to the bed as he pushed himself up into a sitting position. His wife slid further into his lap as he dipped his head down, legs partially crossed with one extended as his temple touched hers. Hands lifting, he cupped her face again, radiating calm... or emptiness. It was not apparent which: whether he felt nothing or he chose not to.

"Just remembering," he responded easily, voice as low and calm, as it had been moments before. He spoke in almost a murmur, lips barely moving as he watched her face. He appeared more intent on simply gazing upon her than actually responding to her questions. It was not exhaustion on his face but... weariness. Yet those dark, empty eyes were focused on her face with undivided attention. He was very much aware, very much focusing everything upon her. He relented more information. "During those troubled times far in the past... times I care not to remember yet guilt unburies them to place them in my mind when I am most vulnerable. But they are memories alone, unable to do more harm than it takes them to appear... Oh."

His head lifted, eyes focusing away from her. He seemed confused for a moment before his hands slid down to her arms, fingers lightly wrapped about them. He wasn't looking at her this time. He appeared to not be with her at all in mind, his head tilted as if he were listening.

"It is dark," he said suddenly, blinking. "Why did you turn the lights off, Persephone?" He frowned. "Ah, because it is night time, of course, but it is time to be up again but they are not on." That much was obvious and anyone could have told her that since she already knew it. He paused. "You can kiss me again," he said seriously, seemingly having forgotten that the lights were out.

Persephone

Persephone swallowed the lump in her throat as she was pulled down to equal level with Hades. He blinked, coming from sleep, and she was relieved. She didn't want him to suffer in his dreams any longer… but from the moment he glanced at her, the girl felt something off, felt her chest clench in anxiety. She didn't mean to be vain, but when Hades looked at her, at least when she last recalled him looking at her (it had been a handful of months since she had seen his eyes upon her) before the incident, there had been an undying fondness… she didn't see the fondness. Only blankness. The kisses he bestowed upon her, his lips upon her brow and nose, her mouth… they did little to ease what made her nervous. It was the strangest kiss he had given her. It seemed to be just a motion. And when he pulled from her again, there was nothing in his face Persephone would have expected from him after their last conversation. There was only this… nothing. When he spoke, it was the epitome of calm.

"I'm… I'm sorry," she mumbled, suddenly very embarrassed. Yes, she had been loud, but he was certainly wrong about the time, wasn't he? It was mid-afternoon! "B-but… but…" She didn't get to finish the thought as Hades gave her permission to kiss him again. The child looked away, her cheeks flushing pink. He sounded odd… if not a bit demanding. There was nothing teasing in his manner either. The young goddess tried to ignore it, continuing her questioning. She didn't like the way her husband awoke. It was as if he were not really there.

It made some sorts of sense though, even to Persephone. He didn't seem angry at her… only… done with her, or at least the conversation they had. She wished they weren't. They had so much more to talk about. She would have even preferred his painful weeping to this emptiness. Well, that wasn't true. Closing her eyes tightly against the thought, she tried to repel the image of the broken king from her mind.

Still, although her mind was as typically flighty as she was usually, Persephone listened to him, her eyes wide as he sat up. She fell into his lap, his head upon her. She couldn't get any sense of what he was thinking besides the words coming from his mouth. It surprised her that memories could plague him. She knew nothing of the Titanomachy and nothing of a painful past. Her nightmares were simply fears, not memories. Maybe they plagued him now, though, Persephone thought, because it was the first time he had truly slept in… well, she didn't exactly know how long it had been for her husband. Hecate had only told her that Hades never slept. It was the chance for them to catch up with him, she supposed.

The god suddenly became distracted. A trait Persephone typically did not associate with Hades. She gazed at his weary eyes growing glossy once more, as if not truly paying attention, before he spoke.

"You…" Persephone mumbled, "you control the lights." Her voice took on an involuntarily childish quality, an almost pout upon her face. "At least you used too..." She was starting to get a cranky temperament. Persephone wanted everything back the way it used to be. She shook his hands from her arms, crossing them over her breast. She was trying not to be a child any longer, not to throw a tantrum. She wanted Hades though! She didn't want the disoriented… unfeeling version that she was currently dealing with! "And it's not morning! It's afternoon!" Her voice rose. Hades was not in the mental state he typically prided himself for. He could do anything, but for now, he only seemed passive, telling her she was allowed to kiss him again.

"I can," Persephone mumbled, "but I will not. Perhaps if you did not act so odd and cold and…!" She placed her elbows on her thighs, burying her face into her hands, sighing heavily. Understanding, after a few moments of silence, that her demanding Hades to immediately revert to how he used to be, to forgive her (for she was certain his noncommittal ways had something to do with how she... how she had ruined him), was not helpful in the slightest. Persephone raised her head. Her voice grew soft. "I'm sorry," she murmured, taking Hades' face in her hands, pressing her lips softly to his, a chill rushing through her.

"I am just… just making everything worse. I can turn on the lights, though, if that's what you'd like." She crawled from his lap and from the bed, pushing down the nightgown she had originally come to see Hades awaken in. She went to the side of the bed with the nightstand, finding matches and a candle already there, from what she assumed to be the last visitor. Lighting it deftly, used to lighting things around her home above ground, she went to the newly placed lights around the room, lighting them one at a time. A sad thought passed her: at home, the sun woke everyone up. Now, even with Hades, light was false… and it did not seem they would even receive that light for a very long time.

When Persephone had finished, she turned to look at the God in bed, her eyes sad. "Are you still angry at me?" she whispered, suddenly, once more, childishly. She knew she should be trying to help Hades and forcing him to decide if he still wanted her was wrong… but she didn't have the mentality for patience. The fact that she wasn't screaming at him, demanding explanations for everything, was already a step in the right direction. She wasn't about to mature overnight.

"Please don't be…" she added pathetically, sitting on the edge of the bed, folding her hands in her lap. She had broken his heart, this she knew. He had told her before that she was allowed to crush it but that he hoped she did not… Persephone only now wondered if it could be remade. It was a bit late, though, to wonder such things, was it not? Before he had slept, Hades had told her he loved her, for her to never leave. Perhaps that had been a spur-of-the-moment thing he had said. Perhaps he did not mean it and would be better off without her.

Well, that much was obvious. Hades would be better off without Persephone. Persephone just wasn't so sure she would any longer be better off without her husband in turn. At the council meeting, she had been certain her life would be that much greater had he never come into it. Now… now, she felt she needed him.

Hades

He didn't understand why she was upset. She was upset and it confused him greatly. Had he said something wrong? His brows pulled together in confusion, lips pursing into a line. He tried to remember but didn't know what he could have done. Though, his face loosened when she spoke again, saying that he controlled the lights. His eyes watched her before he smiled, eyes brightening. "I do, don't I?" It faded, though, when she shook her arms from him and instead crossed them at her chest. She didn't want to be touched either. Persephone was mad at him. Then she raised her voice and he flinched, eyes widening. "Yes, yes, it is afternoon, then... it is not morning..." When he requested another kiss and she said she could, he perked up a bit before it was gone a heartbeat later. He was cowed some by her words again, looking stricken.

She stood, though, to light the lamps and his hands fell to his sides. His eyes followed her, finding he appreciated the view very much. Yes, he loved Persephone, and she was wearing something not good at all for company. He didn't realize it until he watched her move steadily around the room to light the candles there. Something else in his mind clicked into place and his gaze grew distant, another memory flowing in to take its place. His desire for her began from her appearance; that was what caught his attention. But it was more than that that kept him attached to her. There were other beautiful women; others like her, who were mortal or immortal. But... she was different. She had always been different. From the beginning she had loved him, accepted him without a thought and with true innocence wished for them to be together... but it was he that had wanted more than that. He wanted her love to be romantic, her desire to be with him to be forever, and that together to be within his arms, beneath the earth. And that was something she had not wanted and something Demeter had not wanted. So this had all happened. The night before she appeared as if she had fully turned around and wanted to heal what had been broken. But even now he was at a loss. He had never been skilled on how to deal with women and also did not fully understand how their minds worked but right now, he had no idea. How was he supposed to act, then? But Persephone wanted something else, he realized, something telling him that.

So when she finished and moved to sit on the corner of the bed and asked her question, he looked surprised. He looked down for a moment, seriously, with his brows pulled together before his hands gripped the blankets. "I... am angry," he responded, seeming surprised by that revelation. His brows pulled tighter together before he looked up at her, black eyes focusing on her own blue ones. "No… not angry. I am... afraid." He fell suddenly silent before he blinked and looked at her directly again. "I don't... think I want to be scared, though." A beat. "May I have another kiss?" She didn't want him to say so, so maybe he was supposed to ask, instead? He watched her expectantly, with a gleam of hope in his eyes. He... shouldn't just kiss her as he pleased. He did not know just truly how she felt, what she wanted. Once it had been uncomfortable to her. Why would that change all of a sudden? And when he had kissed her himself after waking up, she didn't seem pleased. And when she kissed him again, she did so grudgingly, ignoring his first request. Perhaps he should have been able to figure it out but eventually he would. Probably.

However, he lifted his head, turning towards the opposite side of the room. It was only a moment later that the doors opened and two figures slipped inside. He regarded them for a long moment, lips parting before recognition seemed to blossom on that face. "Thanatos." A subtle smile touched his lips and his back straightened. "You stayed here like you said you would. That makes me very happy." He blinked slowly then gripped Persephone's hand tightly to reassure himself that she was there. But his words to Thanatos were referencing a very old promise they had made to each other. From childhood to adulthood, from the moment he became king of the underworld, a throne that would not have been his. Where had that intimate friendship gone?

His face suddenly grew tired, head resting against Persephone's. He had just woken up but he was exhausted. Not ready to sleep but mentally and physically exhausted. "Where have you been?" he murmured as his eyes slowly closed. He, otherwise, did not move. Awake, aware, but not moving.

Persephone

Hades looked so genuinely confused with her reactions. It seemed very well to halt Persephone's anger as she kissed him. His hum was soft and it brought a painful clench in the girl's heart to yell at such a man. As she went to light the lights, she felt very guilty. A sick person was always a bit off when they got better, right? She wasn't sure. She had never seen another sick person. And others had only told her he was sick. When she was younger, she had caught a cold once… she had felt woozy, but when she was better, she hadn't felt different, or stranger. Perhaps she had acted stranger and Mama had never told her?

Coming back to Hades' bed, well… her bed, technically, she curled in a corner and asked her question quietly. She was surprised when Hades was honest, and was honestly angry. Her gasp was a little thing, a heart-wrenching thing as she bit into her knuckle to stop herself from letting out a low whine of how she didn't do anything, and to ask him for forgiveness. She was only too happy when he corrected himself… but when he corrected himself, it wasn't a much better answer. The little goddess felt like a monster, turning to him. She scared the God of the Underworld. His love for her was so powerful, it scared him that she would never return it, and continue to hurt him.

Looking at her husband in the eye, Persephone lowered her hand. This time, Hades asked for a kiss. Persephone nodded too eagerly. She would do anything to at least put a wrapping over this wound. She didn't think she could heal it after all, but maybe, she could have a temporary fix of letting him have what he wanted from her? While he was in this dazed state, she would try to be accommodating? And hold her tongue.

Her mouth quietly pressed to his, releasing him with a wet pop. Her fingers came to his face, holding his cheek. She tried to portray some sort of understanding. That she wasn't going to shout anymore. She wanted to portray the love she was discovering for him… but doubted it passed through more thoughtful blues into glazed blacks.

Letting out a squeak of surprise at the door opening, Persephone curled unconsciously into Hades' side. Hades gripped her hand, holding her to him, and she allowed it, though her cheeks grew pink as two figures she knew came into the room. To be in such an… intimate position alone was embarrassing enough. Now she was mortified, her eyes lowering to the bed sheets. She didn't want to upset Hades' by moving though. She didn't listen to her husband as he spoke, instead, stuck in her own thoughts. She was scared, as well. What if Hades was never the same again?

Thanatos

Thanatos burst into the room without so much as a question of whether or not this would be appreciated. Social politeness be damned, he had waited long enough. As he entered the bedroom from the sitting room, Thanatos did not so much as scoff in disgust at the young girl in bed with his lord. He could make very many comments of decency, but his mission here was not to humiliate the child. He had no reason to be acting quite so… spiteful.

Opening his mouth to ask the first of very formal questions, he was silenced as the King spoke first. His mouth snapped shut, a look of surprise at the normally stoic face. What? Those words were so familiar to him… spoken so long ago. Could Hades have been speaking of the same thing said centuries before? Those words, those exact words, were never uttered without such a context though.

"I won't leave."

"I wouldn't put blame on you…"

"You know nothing of ruling this world. I will not abandon you…" Silence. "Do not think I do this for your Highness… it's… for my father." A lie.

Thanatos blinked. "Yes…" he said slowly. "I did…" his posture became much more careful, and he turned to Hecate slowly, whispering in her ear. She nodded, his words not revealed to the room, before she took her leave. Thanatos knew an unsteady mind: his sister was the Goddess of Insanity. If he did not know unstable, then he had not been paying attention. A childlike posture, a soft smile that was never granted to Thanatos any longer (though Thanatos did little to deserve one), the way he gripped to his wife like she was an anchor, and not the other way round?

"Such a strange thing you bring up at this moment, my Lord. How are you feeling?" His words seemed to take on a soothing quality: something he could turn on and off, much like his twin. Death could be coaxing, just as Sleep.

He studied as the Lord of the Underworld rested his head upon his girl-wife. Thanatos still hid his true feelings behind an overly soft mask. "My Queen, Persephone, how has this afternoon gone for you?"

Persephone looked up, biting her lip. She knew Thanatos did not like her, and was afraid he would ask her to leave Hades' side. "Hades is tired… but… fine," she lied. If he were anything but, would she not be asked to go off on her from him?

"Ah," Thanatos clipped. "Lord Hades, can you stand? You have been bed-ridden for… quite some time since the trial. We've been concerned, of course." Had Thanatos been concerned? For their old friendship, yes; for their kingdom, yes; for their recent relationship? No. He and Hades had long lost the intimacy of secrets in their youth. "Hecate is sending for Asclepius. Just for a final check. Would that be fine with you? We will not announce to the Heavens just yet of your… return."

Hades

Hades watched the man for a moment as he spoke before his hand moved to rest in Persephone's lap, his gaze distant. He was taking everything in, dark lashes lowering some to touch those hollowed cheeks before he lifted his hand once more brushing it lightly over his face. "Ah... since the trial..." he murmured, looking tired. "We lie to each other once more, brother. Even gods change over time." He was speaking to Thanatos, certainly, but what was not certain of just where he believed he was. There, during that time, speaking to his second as king or if he spoke as a young monarch to his childhood friend and companion. But Thanatos was asking if he could stand. Hades' eyes met his and he gave him a faint smile. "No." That, at least, he was well aware of. He certainly could not stand up on his own. They had not been used for some time. He would need to learn how to stand up again to get that strength back in is limbs.

Though another reality presented itself. The lights had not turned on. Nothing had changed. The barriers did not reform themselves. He could not grasp hold of his power or chose not to. Those things he had done thoughtlessly in the past but now they did not re-present themselves. The barriers, however, would not have reformed themselves simply because he was in touch with his power again. He would have to re-create them in person. The lights, though, would go on, on their own.

But he waved him off in a surprising gesture, shaking his head. "No, I do not wish to see him. There is no change in my condition, Thanatos." His eyes grew distant for a moment. "I want to know everything that happened while I was... not here. From both you and Hecate. I do not want anything left out. As well as everyone who has come to the realm to be judged but has not. I want to know the state of affairs and what you have been doing in my absence." His fingers slid down his thigh. He paused. "Your knowledge of the goings on of Olympus shall be limited, I am aware, but I wish to know it as well. From you or anyone most acquainted."

His eyes sharpened, looking suddenly very aware of his surroundings. "Demeter. What has she done in my absence?" Something seemed to click in his mind, pieces falling into place. "The pomegranate..." He suddenly paled, hands falling from his wife. "What has happened?" He had given the fruit of the dead to Persephone... but she had not consumed the whole thing. He had collapsed soon after Persephone had been taken from him to the world above. Zeus would likely be in a rage. But no so much as Demeter would be. His hand suddenly tightened around his wife's. She had eaten the fruit of the dead, she could not be forced to leave him... but she had only eaten half of it. His face had gone deathly white once more. The short composure he had shown was gone as a bead of sweat ran down his jaw.

Thanatos

Thanatos felt something sharp in his heart as his Lord called him 'brother'. They had not used such familial terms since they were young men, both preparing for war against the previous generation. Yes, they did lie to one another once more. Neither were truthful, and not even in the sense of blatant dishonesty. They simply kept themselves from one another behind shielded walls.

"Ah," he responded instead to Hades' comment of his lack of movement. "This is why I insist on the God of Medicine seeing you, Highness. I am certain he'll be able to make it easier for you to regain your strength." Folding his hands behind his back, Thanatos raised white brows over his red eyes, studying just how far gone Hades' strength truly was. He gazed up at the lights, noticing that candles were what lit the room. This wasn't what Thanatos had been hoping for. He'd been hoping for a complete recovery when… and if Hades opened his eyes. It had been nerve-wracking enough to think that there was a chance, previously, that the God of the Dead would never again open his eyes. Perhaps part of it was Persephone's doing. For that, even Thanatos could admit he was the tiniest bit thankful she was there… though it had been her fault in the first place that Hades' had fallen under the strain of his overly tired mind.

Still, Hades' seemed to be speaking more normally, as time went on, and during the conversation, though, Thanatos noted, Persephone still stared up at her husband like a frightened little girl. It made him wish to scoff, but he held himself back, instead, listening. "Since you know the state of affairs and protocol, all souls have been moved to the Asphodel Fields. They all need to be judged – this is a pile of about three months' worth, growing hourly. Besides this, your mother and first sister are here. They have been for quite some time. Your wife has been moved to a different wing of the palace as well. For a more… dangerous subject, the barriers have ceased to be in Tartarus. My siblings and the Furies are working to keep everything in line, but they cannot continue to do so forever. Hecate has been casting her own somewhat weaker barriers, but that ought to be first on our list…"

"Lord Thanatos," Hecate entered the room, her eyes sharp. "Please, give King Hades a moment. The barriers will do for now. There is no need to rush from bed. The only concern we had originally were the Titans… but so far, there has been no movement from them. We're currently assuming they do not notice the barrier has gone down." It was not a terrible assumption. Trapped for so many centuries in complete and utter stillness, one might forget to check what was keeping them there.

"Did you do as I asked of you?" Thanatos' voice was clipped, not liking to be interrupted.

Hecate gave a nod. "Yes."

"The only news we have heard on Olympus, my Lord," Hecate continued from what Thanatos had not spoken of (not wishing to focus on trivial matters), "is that you are once more an Uncle. Queen Amphitrite has given birth to a prince. The Naming Ceremony has been… postponed due to your absence. His father named the boy: Triton. So far, no gifts besides those of the Sea have been bestowed upon the child and there will be none until you are there to partake in the ceremony as well."

Perhaps that would bring Hades' some joy? No matter how horrid his family, Hecate could say at least the other gods and goddesses could not stomach an Olympus party while such turmoil existed in the Underworld. She was certain, though, that there were still parties being hosted. Just not at Zeus's palace.

There was no joy in Hades, though. Suddenly, like a madman, the King was glaring at all, his breathe hitched.

No! Persephone thought to herself, sucking on her lower lip, closing her eyes. Not now. They couldn't talk of this right now! Did they have to? Was now the best time? Why could Hades not be content with waking?

But yes, it seemed they would discuss what had happened during the trial. The pomegranate. If Persephone were braver, if she were surer of herself, she would have bid Thanatos and Hecate to leave – it would be hard enough to explain with two pairs of judgmental eyes. The way they stared at her, though, expecting her to speak, their looks equally cross, though in different ways, Persephone couldn't bear to utter a single word to them. It was as if the little goddess were expecting time to stop still so long as she did not open her mouth. She stared at her lap, Hades' hand leaving her in his sudden panic. His voice was turning into a shout, frightening the child. She visibly flinched when her husband suddenly grabbed her hands once more, his grip slightly tighter than she could bear.

"You're hurting me," she whispered, her eyes still closed, voice soft.

"A compromise was made," Thanatos said simply, after a moment, realizing Persephone would not speak. Hades had, indeed, startled him as well, perhaps Hecate, but they were both very calm, very rational, very composed deities. Shouting did not cause fear to touch their eyes, even if it was a mad King who was acting in such a way, and they could handle themselves, though, Thanatos looked towards the black haired woman… He could see pity flooding her greens for just an instantaneous moment… and ah, there it was. She was neutral once more.

"The marriage was… it was… it is considered valid," Persephone finally squeaked, parting her blues to stare at her husband. Thanatos clucked his tongue. She was obviously trying to placate Hades and bounce around the truth.

Hecate seemed to realize this too. "There has been enough deceit here, Queen Persephone. Do not tell half-truths." The Titaness's voice was stern. Persephone felt the telltale sign of tears, her childish, immature tears flooding her eyes.

"Please don't make me," she whispered.

There was silence to greet her. The Goddess was acting in a shameful manner, crying in front of not only her husband and caretaker, but in front of Thanatos, a man who already held so little respect for her. The Goddess of Witchcraft merely raised a brow in response, Thanatos mimicking her.

"I… I ate half… half of the fruit…" Persephone blubbered, reaching her free hand for Hades' bearded cheek. "So… so… my Father said… half of the year… I'll be here… here with you…!" It was unspoken where she would be for the other half of the year. Everyone knew though. "Alright?" Persephone was shaking. She had been caught in her deceit, for last night, she had been insinuating, though not completely in words, that she would not leave Hades' side. Her actual words were that she would choose not to leave Hades' side. It was still deceptive though, any way one looked at the situation.

"It'll be… so… wonderful, yes?" Persephone was trying to smile, trying to pretend as if she had done nothing wrong, trying to simper any anger or pain Hades' held.

"We will be taking our leave," Thanatos said, clearly not amused with what was happening. Hecate looked upon Persephone, giving a half smile of sympathy. She couldn't help her young ward in this situation. It was not Persephone's fault, necessarily, but it would be even a step beyond a lover and friend to interfere in the marriage of her King. Both turned to leave after a slight bow.

I did it, didn't I? Gave you a cliff hanger. Well, next chapter will be coming up! I know this is an unsatisfying chapter for ya'll, but important, no?