I'm a little late, aren't I? I debated putting this chapter in then thought, well, it is actually pretty important before we shepherd you in to the next part. A long fluff chapter? Well, you had better enjoy it! But don't worry, the next chapter won't take as long. Then we get into more juicy bits in how to deal with relationships. Hades just can't give her a break!
Chapter Twenty-One
Before Love Comes Friendship and Three-Head Dogs
The door creaked, fabric brushing against its thick frame as it swept past. Her feet were bare; they were always bare. She listened, the silence intense and heavy on her ears. But her fingers twitched when she at last heard it, the scratch of a pen against dried parchment. It was a familiar sound to her and it made her relax, if even a little. But that did not last long. She had all the reason in the world to be afraid. But her knees did not wobble nor did her hands shake. Instead, she moved forward with a bit more confidence in her decision. The sound of the quill against the parchment did not stop, joined by the crinkling of paper as it was moved.
She shifted and fell down to her knees, forehead pressed to the floor. "My Lord Aidoneus," she began, her voice low but sounding very loud in the silence. The sound stopped almost immediately, plunging her into utter silence. She ground her teeth together. "I beg of you forgiveness for coming uncalled into your divine presence... one so lowly as myself. I only plead you hear my words, one whose soul belongs in your hands." Still, there was silence. "It is not my place, a mortal, to make such a request, for I belong in the depths of Tartarus. Your mercy, I plead, for only a moment."
Hades leaned back, gently placing the quill into the ink and clasping his hands together at his breast. His black eyes were distant, staring at the wall opposite of himself, as the one who spoke was not even ten feet from him. He knew who she was. Her presence in the Underworld and here in this room told him many things about what had occurred while he was gone.
"Speak," he responded at last, his fingers unwinding as he rubbed at his chin. He hadn't shaved. He had facial hair now, his hair trimmed shorter. "Choose your words with care. The moment you stepped foot in my realm, you belonged in the place of judgment. It is a burden he bears for defying me. You have no voice here in my realm, but, for a moment, I will hear what you have to say."
She took a deep breath of relief, her forehead pressing farther into the carpet. "Thank you, Lord Aidoneus," she breathed, fingers curling into the carpet as she remained in the position she was, bowed before him. His eyes closed then opened again, leaning forward as he once more began to write. And she spoke, her voice suddenly steady and sure.
Hades was silent, rolling up the scroll when the ink had eventually dried. His black eyes were distant, dark hollows ringed beneath them. He set it aside, leaning back in his chair with his fingers linked. She was a curious woman. She currently lay kneeling on the floor behind him, having, at last, fallen silent. He could not blame his childhood companion for being fascinated by this woman - though he would never mention the fact to him - but her request had taken him by surprise. She knew more than she probably should and, he guessed, it was from her own intuition more so than having been told it. But she had gone to him without it being made officially known to him that she was there. Would it not have been foolish to do so? But he had been aware of her presence... eventually. He knew she was there when Thanatos said no word of it.
At last, his eyes closed. His face was distant, calm, as it always had been long before Persephone came into his life. But he thought her words over. His chin fell closer to his breast.
"Very well," he said at last. "Your plea has reached my ears. I do not grant you a boon for you are unworthy of it. What you have sworn for your life has already been done and so nothing can you trade your life for... is worth anything." She lifted her head then stopped, brows pulling together. Her head fell to the ground once again, still silent. "These things you knew yet still you came to me. Rather, I shall offer you a choice instead." Her head actually lifted all the way this time, her lips parting in surprise. She could not see him but she knew he had not moved.
"My King?" she whispered softly and, the very faintest of smiles touched the corner of his mouth before it was gone again. He was interested... to see what she would choose. And how it would turn out in the end.
They crackled and crumbled in his fingers against his hardest attempts to be gentle. As if holding paper-thin glass he cradled them carefully in his hands, even suffering a few cuts in the process. Even so, he felt parched petals in his fingers that crumbled away at his touch. In anger he threw his hard work to the ground. No matter what he tried, they always immediately shriveled up in the underworld, having already begun to wither the moment he picked them...
"Well, I do not think that should have surprised you," a deep voice said from behind him. Bored, certainly bored. Whoever it was, they honestly did not want to be there but was entirely gracious for being there at all. "What did you expect was going to happen?" His head dropped down a few inches onto his fist, eyelids drooping. "It was a dumb idea, Lord Hades. Make them out of gold or dip them into silver. They will last longer and not die." He gave a crooked smile, black brow lifting. Those silvery eyes were piercing, very bright on such a dark face.
"How can I, the god of the underworld, do such a thing? I cannot even coat the flowers in any precious metal to preserve them, especially with such unskilled hands. I am not Hephaestus and do not have the time to go to him and request it..." He covered his eyes with his hand then exhaled in frustration and disappointment. His companion had both brows lifted, lips pursed. The king was still stressed. No, he was still easy to stress out and he was certainly stressing about this quite a bit. More than he should be, in his opinion. He wasn't at all impressed and all of his offers were immediately turned down. Hades had a set vision in mind and nothing but that was really going to work. Or so he assumed. Well, he could just go and stress himself out, then. He didn't understand what was so important about it anyway. He yawned and scratched at the back of his head. It was a pretty pathetic attempt at an apology if it was that. Otherwise, he had no idea what was going on in his king's mind. He probably didn't want to know at that time. Hades probably wasn't fully aware either.
"Then draw a picture with some nice pretty flowers on it and 'I love Persephone' in big letters." He didn't even bat an eye at the look he got.
"Do you have anything better to do, Hypnos, or in your boredom are you going to mock me?" He earned a smile for that one that was not returned.
"Now, let's be reasonable, you were always a reasonable… as a man. Just trying to help."
There was a long pause. Hades' face was distant with his arms crossed over his breast.
Hypnos was still before he stood up with a groan, stretching his arms above his head. His silvery-white eyes were closed, lips curled into a frown. He was dressed in white. "Create an illusion. Or take her to the fields of Elysium. You haven't given her a tour of the Underworld yet, have you? Anyway. I'm up as you requested so should I gather that twin of mine? You see, I would much rather return to my own dwelling rather than entertain little goddesses..."
Hades gave him a withering look before his face relaxed. "No, I have sent another to fetch him. It will occur in due time. To have roused you is enough of an accomplishment but it is wiser to wait for the others to gather as well. You, god of sleep, are not nearly as important as they are." He watched as Hypnos' jaw snapped shut and muscle spasmed.
He forced a smile as he gazed at him, straightening. "Why, of course, my Lord. I shall go entertain myself while I wait for the rest of your guests arrive. Shall we wait until after you have entertained your wife?"
"Your wisdom is always accepted," Hades responded quite solemnly with a slight nod of his head. "It shall be done as you said. You may go." It wasn't much but he had to make up somehow for all the grief Hypnos had caused him in the past.
That hadn't turned out the way he had planned it to so Hypnos turned sharply on his heel and left muttering to himself.
Wherever he wanted to go, he could go. But he would return when he needed to return. It had been plaguing his mind for some time now. He knew it had to be done.
But, there were things of greater priority. After he had awakened, healing the wounds of the Underworld had been his first concern. It had been made well aware to him just how important he was, and how devastating his absence had been. Luckily nothing had truly collapsed. Was at a standstill, yes, but had not fallen apart. Changes needed to be made and he had a few in mind. Yet he could still remember the incident at the gates of Tartarus that still troubled him greatly. It would plague his mind still for some time. Two days ago he lay in his bed unable to stand. Walking around and even firmly announcing he would once more take up his duties and that had not stood well with those most concerned about his well-being. But he could not lie bound in bed even though he knew it would help him recover. He had not judged a single soul, however, to at least give them some peace of mind. That would soon have to be amended.
What he would not admit, however, was the fact that he had dove into his duties not just out of fear for the state of what he ruled. He had been in a constant state of melancholia. The gloomy air about him had not left. He was certainly without energy. It took a lot of effort to do what he was doing. He did a lot of sitting down if he could help it but not to make others aware of it. Though he knew they knew that he was exhausted. He may have woken more sound of mind than before he collapsed – debatably – but he was nowhere near healed.
He had yet to keep his promise, perhaps Persephone forgot. Half of it was true to his word, the other not. He swore he would give his day to her and at night he would work. From the moment he had gotten out of bed that very day when Persephone revealed their fate decided by the Olympian gods, he had been constantly on the move. He worked through the night, rejecting the idea of sleeping when he had been out for far too long. That may not have been sleeping then but he did not care at all. He could not sleep, even if he wanted to. He knew that well. Yet how he had fallen asleep the night before that did not surprise him, he knew what it was that allowed him to relax and fall into sleep. But he doubted his wife would willingly sleep with him again. He had left her room to move back to his own and ordered her room be thoroughly cleaned so she could move back into it. He had made sure she was... occupied throughout the day. Moving from one room to her old one predominantly but also commanded - requested - that Hecate watch over her and keep her occupied. Was this because he didn't want to see her? Definitely not. That was the major reason he was in his melancholia. He had not seen his mother though knew she was there.
Now, he took a deep breath, wringing his hands together nervously as he stood alone in the room. The table was filled for a meal - devoid of any meat and filled with what he had been told was her favorite foods. Hecate was a far more reliable source of information on that one than he possibly could imagine himself. He trusted her judgment. Now, he waited breathlessly for her to arrive. He sincerely hoped she would... and wasn't angry with him. She would have good reason to, he decided, convincing himself of it.
"There has been enough deceit here, Queen Persephone. Do not tell half-truths."
Hades lifted his eyes that focused on the face of his wife. Once more it was filled with pain, perhaps even now there was fear in his eyes. Tears filled her eyes as she begged her caretaker not to say the next words she knew she had to say. His hands drew back, reality hitting him like bricks. In that moment he knew what she was going to say. His wife was crying before him... in fear? In shame of what she had done? Was it because she realized what effect this would have on him? His hands clenched tightly into fists as the room fell into silence. But, at last, his wife spoke to him, her voice broken, forcing out her words past her tears. Her hand touched his cheek.
"...half of the year I will be here with you..."
Half of the year.
He did not react to her touch, his eyes gazing blankly at her. Shaking, she said it, trying to hide any wrongdoing. Was he angry at her as he should be? No, he could not find fury in him, only the sting of knowing what was now his reality. His wife had given him the promise that he would have her at his side and now... soon she would be taken away from him. She would not be forever at his side. For six months he would be without her where she would be carefully hidden in her mother's bosom. They were taking her from him once more.
Then Hecate and Thanatos took their leave.
His hand covered his face, shoulders slumping before he went still. "I have much work to do," he said after several moments, his voice low. It had dropped, soft and low but not weak. His head shook back and forth slowly as he lowered his hand, eyes closed but not for long. As they opened, they gazed on her face blankly before turning away. His hand gripped the side of the bed, feet touching the floor. "Hecate will come for you, and tell you what you must do today."
The return of the Lord of the Dead had brought great rejoicing he had not expected. Or was it the return of the light and known safety? Either way, when the lanterns relit, there was great rejoicing. But after he had left his wife, his first order of business was to go alone past the river Phlegethon to the gate of Tartarus. The hot flames of the burning river crackled at his back, black robes tight around his frame as he gazed into the darkness before him. But what he found brought him the greatest surprise yet greatest relief. And that was... nothing. From that point he could see nothing had changed, no harm done to those massive gates that would be matchsticks before the hands of the imprisoned Titans. The burning river Phlegethon that held them back had not tasted them. His hand touched the hot iron, causing the surface to shimmer and ripple. He exhaled. It had been so long since he had exercised true power. Was now too early since the time he had awakened was not too long ago? Would it only break what had managed to piece itself together? Yet that risk he would take. No matter how selfishly he had acted before or how many people he had hurt in that endeavor that he could not take back, this should never come after anything else.
Yet, strangely, he could feel them all before him, not a single one missing. No soul destined to damnation in the pit nor Titan cast from his lofty throne. All were there, the Underworld in one piece. But the answer to why this was had the simplest answer. The stench of decay assailed him but he did not even wince. Rather, when he withdrew his hand, the gates clanged shut and the inhabitants stirred. One face gazed down at him however, black eyes that locked with his. But his head bowed low and he withdrew.
"Thank you." Though the other had already left.
Arien
She did not think Thanatos missed much, anyway. He wasn't her keeper and she wasn't his but she was more or less in his care until her fate was put into his master's hands. Her face grew slightly grim. Well, she had done that now, hadn't she? She took a breath and quickly turned, making her way over the cold ground. She quickened her steps until she felt marble beneath her feet. Up the steps, under the archway of the halls. She shivered. She was slowly learning her way around, hand tracing the wall to guide her. But she had to go...
She touched the door then knocked. If Thanatos wasn't there, then he wasn't there. She almost hoped he wasn't. Yet she entered when bidden to, the door shutting at her back. She lifted her chin, knowing she could not mope over her condition nor try to conceal it. She had made a decision and she could not go back on it no matter how hard she tried to. And she had come to terms with that. "His majesty requests your aid," she told him as she lifted her brow to emphasize the double meaning of those words. The obvious and the fact she was saying them at all. "He calls a general council to be attended by all the underworld denizens. And…" her brow lowered and her lips quirked some, "...since you know your relatives so well, you would ensure that all of them are there and behave themselves. Also ensure that they are well entertained. Since he is otherwise... distracted."
She tilted her head some. Well, he would have to find out sooner or later. She would rather he hear it from her own lips than from Hades'. She had met with Hades without his knowledge and since she relayed a message from Hades… that revealed to him that not only was Hades well aware of her presence but also now there was some other connection between the two that she would run an errand for him. "Is there anything else you would like to know?" At least he was a fairly levelheaded individual. No, wrong, he, at least, did not have a burning temper that turned into bouts of rage...
Thanatos
"His Majesty," Thanatos repeated, this time, for once, reading a book for his own leisure. He nodded at the door Arien had just walked through, his power allowing it to close, clicking softly against its frame. "The King has seen you and yet you are still able to come into my room, as my servant. Impressive." If the girl could see, she would have found the falter in his cool façade: a twitch of his brow, an anxious twitch. Hades knew of her… if the King had not gotten rid of her now and sent her off to Tartarus, there was no doubt he would… very, very soon. The idea, for some strange reason, unsettled him immensely.
His attention, though, was immediately diverted from worry to panic at her next statement. His relatives. Well, mostly his relatives, if the entirety of the Underworld had been called (at least the more prominent citizens). His family would be the worst though: at least those unrelated to him clipped down the more… horrific parts of their personality and powers… to be polite, perchance? His relatives gave him no such courtesy.
"I will go now." He stood, his stomach clenching. Why had Hades done such a thing? So soon awoken and now inviting all those who lay in his regions to his palace? A frustration hit him as well. Perhaps their King was even less sound of mind then he had assumed. And now? Thanatos had to clean up the mess. As usual.
"Where are they?" He thought to ask just as he reached the door of his chambers, before clucking his tongue. Stupid. He ought know where his own twin brother was. Hypnos. The connection of twins was something different entirely. He could find his brother just by the other god's aura. Oh Fates, was Morpheus with him? Thanatos picked up his pace, imagining the carefree brother leaving the child somewhere in the palace to sleep, in the hands of some of the more unfriendly deities, simply out of convenience. Their little brother, now adopted son to Hypnos, was thousands of years old, but that was no matter. The child only aged when awake, and therefore only currently held the young age of ten.
It was almost amusing, seeing the firm and harsh god practically run through the halls, his eyes wild. Morpheus was what Thanatos put almost all his sensitivity into, the boy abandoned by their mother and father when they realized the extent of his power even played effects on his development. Besides this, Morpheus was the only amount of innocence Thanatos could stand – perhaps a reason why Persephone was simply too much for his taste. Calming down enough as he made it into one of the main ballrooms, Thanatos didn't quite slam the door open, instead, sliding in, trying to keep unnoticed as he observed his dozens of brothers and sisters chatting and the other dozens of acquaintances behaving similarly. Thank the Fates. At least they were behaving. Black whips shot through the air, curling through Thanatos's hair; his weakest sisters, the Keres, still unable to take a human form. He swatted them away, his eyes out for one thing: his brother, hopefully, carrying a sleeping child.
Finding the dark God in a corner of the room, Hemera at his side, speaking languidly to him, Thanatos pushed through people, ignoring all greetings. He felt burning eyes in the back of his head, though, not even acknowledging it was most likely his mother, peeved at his overall rudeness.
"Where… is he?" Thanatos almost panted when finally making it to that opposite corner, shooting daggers at Hemera the moment the goddess opened her mouth, most likely to say something sarcastic. She shut it with a click, tossing her blonde hair from her face. Dark as Hypnos, but as the Goddess of the day, kissed with golden light of the sun.
"And why are you all here?" Perhaps the question that Thanatos should have started with, as he stared his twin down. He would be calmer once he found out where his 'nephew-brother' was.
"We were called," Hemera answered that question for Hypnos primly, crinkling her nose in distaste that her elder brother could be so rude.
"I realize that, you stupid chit. Why were you called? And you," Thanatos finally straightened his back, his calm suddenly washing over him like a storm, red eyes once more ice. "Where is Morpheus? You best not have 'forgotten' him."
Hypnos
Hypnos leaned back in the chair he had claimed his own, lips curling up into a patronizing smirk as he regarded his brother and his peevish new mood. His brow lifted, not speaking right away, certainly because right after the second question, Hemera took it upon herself to answer for him. It wasn't until he was directly addressed did he chuckle and link his hands behind his head.
"Now, Thanatos, we have no reason to be uncivilized, do we? And to think so lowly of me. What has got you into such a peevish mood?" He leaned forward and placed his hand on his thigh. "I am a good father you should be well aware. The boy prefers to be left alone, you understand. And who would dare lay a hand on him when they know they will have such a frightening deity such as yourself hounding on their heels if they do so? Besides, dear brother, he is always in good hands. Currently, in no one's hands but that is beside the point, yes? Not to be entirely literal about the whole situation. May not be the most comfortable place to sleep but sore muscles can always be taken care of upon waking up."
Hypnos began tapping his finger, nodding his head almost in rhythm. "He's asleep quite contentedly right now. Then again, he almost always is. I've always found it quite the enjoyable pastime myself." He nodded his head behind him slightly to indicate behind the chair. Leaning against the wall just behind the chair lay curled the mostly concealed figure of the young man. His back and head rested against it in a sitting position, legs curled to the side and head rolled to his shoulder. The chair Hypnos sat in mostly concealed him but not entirely if one was looking. He breathed in and out evenly, hair somewhat concealing his sleeping face. Morpheus, the god of dreams and adoptive son of Hypnos. "See," he said extravagantly as he stood. "Well taken care of! I took it upon myself to take him with me. Not that he enjoyed being forced to move, however. Though I didn't want you getting yourself so... anxious. Perhaps you should focus all that energy elsewhere."
He wrapped his arm around his twin's shoulders and pressed his forehead to his. "Now, shall we talk civilized, dear brother? You see..." He patted his breast with his free hand, knowing all too well being so close would irritate him not caring. "Actually. Shouldn't you already know this? You are second to Hades, aren't you? Excuse me, Lord Hades... So why don't you already know this? Falling out of grace already, are you? Well, I should tell you then. Hades is calling a general council. Not sure what to talk about but I'd guess his absence. Let us hope for good news rather than foul, yes? Any more than that, ask yourself or wait until he shows up." He patted his chest again then pulled away to return to Morpheus. He crouched next to the boy and brushed the hair from his face in a surprisingly tender gesture. Hypnos was a notoriously rude and crude man but was particularly tender with his sons. He had adopted both Morpheus and Phobetor though Phantasos was his true son through Pasithea. Not that he didn't care for Pasithea, of course, but he hadn't married her out of love. That was because of Hera, of course, who had allowed their marriage in exchange for a favor from Pasithea. He hadn't objected, certainly because the one he actually loved was out of his reach. That, however, was a different story. He murmured something to the boy who did not even stir. He straightened. "Now, go speak to mother. You already did a splendid job offending her. Congratulations."
Thanatos
Hypnos was playing with him. Perhaps this was why he had chosen not to see his brother for so many years – his twin irritated him more than anyone else (even Arien). Thanatos had to try and control his rage – something that typically came naturally to him. The man was pressing his very, very sensitive button. Morpheus was a strange boy to ignite such fire in the typically stoic god. Even Hypnos's other sons could not do it. He would look at the children with the same disdain he looked at everything else with. Morpheus though… was there first, he supposed, and therefore, the first one to occupy his heart in such a way. He could remember when the baby had stayed a baby for his first decade.
"Thanatos, your father and I are not here to coddle for eternity. It is not cruel so much as blunt. We tell you two," Nyx stared pointedly at her twins, "only so there are no questions. We want this matter settled."
"You think leaving a babe in Tartarus is not cruel?" Young, and hot headed, Thanatos bit his tongue, not wanting to be dismissed by his parents as hysterical.
"Morpheus will never grow up, my son – not in the way most children do. The world does not need dreams as it does Death and Sleep. He is young, weak, and he will go back to Gaia in no time at all. I doubt he will suffer." Erebus spoke carelessly, holding the infant against his chest. The god was looking at the sleeping child, his eyes cold.
"Mother, Father, let me take him… I will keep in my home. The world will think him mine – it will not be a disgrace upon either of you."
"Your home," Nyx clipped, "Is the palace. One day you will be Lord of the Underworld under either King Cronus or his son, Hades. You will be expected to take a lady wife and she will bear legitimate children. What would the world think, knowing your first son, your heir, never awakens?"
Thanatos knew better than to argue with his mother once she had given her reasons. Still, he quickly came up with another solution.
"Let Hypnos take him," His gaze shot at his twin. "The God of Sleep, it would be natural he would father the God of Dreams. He is not in line for titles – an illegitimate child is acceptable."
There was a long pause, Thanatos, for the first time, begging his brother, albeit with his eyes, his fists clenched in hope there would be agreement. How did this seem familiar? Had he not scolded Hades for the same thing?
Snapping from his thoughts, Thanatos pursed his lips. "A good father? I disagree. Careless enough to lose track of your children, your entire household in a constant state of sleep: not a typically ideal environment. Now, where is he?" Thanatos's jaw was tense, imagining the boy left in a hallway, or an empty bedroom, or…
Oh.
There was a physical relaxation in the God of Death as his brother moved, revealing the small boy, curled behind the chair, his small chest rising and falling in sleep. Thanatos' face even softened, for just a moment, before hardening once more, Hypnos's arm wrapping around his shoulder, their heads coming together.
Thanatos did not like to be touched.
"Get your hands off me," He said slowly, in response to Hypnos patting his breast. The identical twins, alike in appearance, though one dark, the other light, had very different personalities. Hemera laughed, though, drawing Thanatos's annoyance away from Hypnos, onto her, red eyes piercing her back into silence, her own gold eyes falling downcast.
"What Lord Hades," Thanatos said, after making sure his sister was properly subdued, choosing not to bother struggling in his twin's grip, "chooses to tell me is whatever he can spare. I do not have a need to know everything, and if he wishes to keep this… affair private, it by no means affects me or my status in this palace, brother," he spat the word like an insult. "Perhaps he wishes to introduce his new, dull consort to you all, so she can scream hysteria at you. I do not know." His lips twitched momentarily, for just a hair of time amused by his own thoughts. At least he did not always find his sibling distasteful.
Hypnos was a good joker, in a similar way Thanatos was: a nasty one.
"I do hope she does not cry once seeing you all." As his brother finally pulled away from him Thanatos brushed off his robes. "Yes, yes, I will go see mother." He looked towards Morpheus one last time. "Make sure he is awake for the meeting."
Morpheus, throughout it all, had actually become an important deity, especially during war time: Gods would come down to the Underworld, not for Hades, Thanatos, or Hypnos, but for the dreaming God instead, to send fortunes and instructions to their war lords through sleeping states. If there were to be a private council after the general one, Morpheus would be required to attend. It was a position that ought make the boy proud, but truly, the little lad cared for little else but sweets… and resting.
Thanatos sighed, running his hand through his hair. As he moved through the crowd, he began the stiff greetings, his eyes once more cool and bored.
Hypnos
Hypnos rolled his eyes. "Thanatos, I'm the god of sleep, I think it is entirely natural my household would be asleep. Now, if it was yours - oh, but you don't have one, do you?" He watched as his brother's face visibly relax when noticing the youthful looking god. But that didn't last long. He was obviously very touchy - not that that was anything new. Not only that, he seemed to have touched upon an even touchier subject: his relationship with Hades... and Hades' new wife.
"Ah, such distaste for our new lady. Did you have another falling out with our dear lord?" Though, he lifted a brow when given a command to make sure Morpheus was awake for the meeting. "Whatever you say. It isn't very difficult." Most of Morpheus' waking hours was to comply to the wishes of the other gods. Sad, really. But as his brother made his way back through the crowds, he cupped his mouth with his hands. "Find yourself a woman, Thanatos, to loosen you up a bit!" His lips quirked into a smirk.
"You agree with me, don't you, Morpheus?"
"I do not want to say anything, father…" he murmured, rubbing at his eye.
Persephone
Persephone had once more felt the impact of being alone. This time, though, since Hades left her, she didn't cry. Only stared at the wall, pulling the blankets over her knees. She felt something hollow start to take place in her heart as she wiped off the remains of her last weeping, fingers etching over her paler cheeks. She was quickly losing the girlish innocence and light she had first met Hades with. People weren't as lovely as she had assumed and she, herself, was not as lovely as she had originally assumed, either. And sometimes people could make mistakes, some terrible, others minor… and be forgiven, yes… or not, as she had witnessed.
The girl only sat for a few more minutes before she stood, making her bed with shaky fingers. Something she hadn't done in many months, something she used to not like doing, but something that she needed to do in this moment. Persephone just needed to move about… she wanted to get rid of this feeling… of abandonment. Of pure and complete loneliness, and therefore, tried to busy herself, distract herself.
It did not take long for Hecate to enter, as she had been told by Hades to keep his young wife busy. She made to move in, to speak, when she saw the girl doing odd tasks – straightening this or that, tidying the vanity even further than it already was…
"Highness?" Her voice was soft, her brows arched. Persephone turned and Hecate swallowed back a sympathetic gaze. Shattered; Persephone looked absolutely shattered. "Come – let me help you dress and we'll have tea."
Persephone did not argue, numbly setting down a jar of black kohl, padding to Hecate, who, in turn, went to the closet to pull out a long, pink chiton. The pink was not necessarily a color of the Underworld but the brighter colors suited the girl far more than blacks, silvers, and reds. The Goddess of Witchcraft was also desperate to bring back some color to the whitened face. Sliding off Persephone's nightgown like a common servant, Hecate wrapped the gown over the girl's shoulders, feeling the dip in the bone more prominent with her smooth fingers. Persephone was riddled with unhappiness, affecting her very appearance – it was obvious to Hecate more now than ever. Without companionship, without even sunshine, the flower of the Upperworld was slowly fading away. Something Hecate had selfishly not thought about when 'introducing' the young girl to her Lord. Hades wasn't helping his wife, Hecate realized, in the same way Persephone was not helping him. There was a lack of communication, of trust, of intimacy in any sense of the word… there was a lack of selfless love, instead replaced by selfish desires on both sides.
Hecate clucked her tongue, deep in thought, as she made to lace up Persephone's sandals, the once roughened feet now finally soft after this period of idleness. "Let's take tea in the downstairs sitting room. I have someone you haven't… properly been introduced to." Hecate linked her fingers with Persephone's, doing so slowly, gauging the girl's reaction. The Goddess merely bit her inner cheek, lowering her gaze.
Leading her from her room, through the darkened, candle-lit hallways, Hecate squeezed the appendage. "You did…"
"It does not matter. I do not care," Persephone said quietly, halting the older woman's tongue. "If it was right or wrong to tell my husband, it was at an… an importune time… and…" Persephone looked away. "It does not matter," she repeated again. "He knows. Whether or not I saved him a hurt, the King is still reacting in such a way, and nothing you can say will change it."
Hecate gained a thoughtful expression. "Yes… but better soon than later…"
"He hates me," came the small voice, determined, shadowed in childish stubbornness.
"Lord Hades could not."
"And yet he manages to."
"That isn't true, my little Queen."
Persephone stopped abruptly, her eyes narrowed at the granite floors. "And if I argue you'll only tell me to listen to you, correct? That you know better than I?" Persephone turned towards Hecate, her sweet features twisted in a mixture of grief and insult. The girl snatched her hand away, immediately feeling guilty for the shocked fingers she left behind.
"Hades does not hate you," Hecate said slowly, bringing her hand back to rest at her side.
"It does not matter," Persephone, for the final time, repeated.
The rest of their walk was in complete silence until the two goddesses entered the sitting room. The elder one immediately changed her face from thoughtful and serious to lips that were a generous smile. She bowed to the woman who was already seated. "Persephone, this is the Dowager Queen Rhea."
Persephone had seen this woman before – had recognized her when running out of her bedchambers in a flurry. Her blue eyes widened and she suddenly threw herself into the lowest curtsy she could. It was a strange motion for the little Queen, having never been taught proper etiquette. It came off sloppy. Rhea, though, was good natured, and smiled.
"There is no need for that. I am not an actual Queen any longer. You are, though. Perhaps I ought curtsy to you?"
A spark of that child, that sweet child, touched Persephone's face. "Oh, no, you mustn't! It would… it would embarrass me far too much, Lady."
Rhea stood anyway, swishing across the room to take Persephone's hand in her own, her eyes incredibly warm. "Thank you for taking tea with me then, Queen of the Underworld."
Persephone was absolutely flustered as she and Rhea sat, Hecate bowing her head and taking her leave, mother-in-law and daughter-in-law left alone together. Hestia would come later to join them... when it was best. There was not a single awkward pause, as Persephone assumed there might be as her own conversation and excitable energy was temporary drained. Rhea having been trained long ago on how to make conversation and, instead, took over. She began asking Persephone questions - not of uncomfortable things, but just of things in general: activities she enjoyed, music she liked, and flowers she created. Rhea did not even touch on the names of Demeter or Hades. Both the Titanness's children seemed to be far from her mind. For that, Persephone was grateful… and confused.
"I feel as if you're avoiding a topic," the young Queen finally confessed, albeit shyly, when there was a moment's pause in the conversation. She had been waiting to hear anything about them, even in a friendly sense: what it was like growing up with Demeter, how she met Hades, anything at all. It seemed strange that Rhea almost blatantly ignored their presences in Persephone's life. Persephone had assumed that her children were the true reason Rhea wished to talk to her.
"And what topic is that?"
"Your… your children, my Lady."
Rhea gave a wry smile. "I did not want to make you unhappy." Her pink lips quirked, a dimple in her cheek appearing. "Have I succeeded, granddaughter?"
Persephone gave a slight nod. "… My Lady… I…" Rhea put down her drink, giving her complete attention to the girl. "I am not as tactful as you are."
"Do not discredit yourself to compliment me, sweet thing."
Persephone gave an anxious smile, though lowered her eyes. "I… I am just curious as to why you are… here. I was told by your son that you… you do not see him often."
Rhea titled her head back slightly, giving a light shrug of her shoulders. "My son was sick, seriously so. Any mother would come…" The elder Goddess pursed her lips, narrowing her eyes. "Let me rephrase that, won't you? Any mother who loves her child would come."
"Well, yes, but then…" Persephone was trying not to sound ungrateful or rude, "why haven't you left? And why don't you come more often? I… I just don't understand how this could be your first visit in all these…" How long had Hades been ruler? "Years." Persephone decided, keeping the number a safe, non-committal guess.
"I have not been received by my son yet," Rhea regained eye-contact with the girl, "and… I feel as if we have untouched conversation. That is my answer to your first question. The second… my sweet, spring child, is for two reasons. I'll give you the easiest one: do you know of Tartarus?"
Persephone shook her head.
"Well, let us say… it is a very… harsh place, where harsh people go. In such a place, my husband is imprisoned. I am not sure if you are… close enough with my son to feel a connection of the minds, but… the one I once felt with my husband was… exceptionally close."
Persephone frowned, setting her own cup down. "Don't you miss him? Why would that be a bad thing? To… to feel him once more?"
Silence.
Persephone could at least understand that Rhea was guarded, and therefore, guarding her answers.
"You'll only have to trust me when I say it is."
More silence.
"Did you make him unhappy?" The girl was obviously drawing at strings, still not completely understanding.
Rhea folded her hands in her lap. "In ways, yes."
Red brows knitted together, the answer touching on another subject in the flower goddess's heart.
"I'm not making your son very happy."
"No, I suppose not." There was a slight pause at Persephone's crestfallen face. "My dove, I no longer sugar coat the truth; not even to dear things such as yourself. If it is any consolation, I do not think he is making you happy either." The elder goddess took her cup, taking another sip of tea. "And you deserve to be happy, just as he does. It isn't too late, you know."
"It is."
"Persephone, let me give you a bit of advice." Rhea leaned in. "You must not share such insecurities with everyone you meet."
"I… I don't…"
"You do. You have only just met me and you already tell me of your marital troubles. I was once like you – you must quickly learn not to put your trust in just anyone, not even those who seem to only have your best interests at heart. Very few actually have your best interests at heart."
"But I know you won't hurt me! You'll only listen, won't you? You love Hades – you love my mother. I know this! She told me of this!" Persephone flushed, embarrassed with her outburst immediately. "I… I am sorry… I should not have gotten so… excited."
"No need for apologies, Highness," Rhea murmured. "Perhaps I do not wish to hurt you. Not everyone has good intentions, though. Dear heart, you have taken a new life role: people are going to try to use your hurt to their advantage."
Persephone lowered her head, her cheeks pink. "I just… want to trust everyone. Because… now there are so many more people than I am used to."
"I understand that, my love… and I wish that were possible. Guard your feelings better, for you are a Queen."
Persephone paused. "My Lady… why do you… care?"
"It just happened in conversation. I truly asked to meet with you because I wanted to know the type of woman my son picked."
Persephone's eyes rounded as she chewed her bottom lip nervously.
"And now I can say I know exactly the type."
"Are you disappointed?"
Only the shake of the head and a twinkle in Rhea's eyes gave Persephone her answer.
"I wish we could go outside," Persephone said softly, gazing up at the tall ceilings.
"There is no real outside to the Underworld," Hestia corrected. "There are the Asphodel Fields and Elysium… but besides them, there is no 'outside' as you and I know there to be."
"That is sad…" Persephone said, "I wish to see the sun again. It's so cold down here!"
"It's colder up there," Rhea smiled.
"The humans, will they survive?" Persephone asked, sighing in relief when her grandmother nodded.
"Two months and some weeks won't destroy life altogether. They'll be more prepared for next time."
The trio sat in silence for a few more moments before a servant appeared at the door, bowing low to the three Goddesses.
"My Ladies…"
Persephone looked towards Rhea, her eyes wide as she looked for approval. The elder Queen nodded and Persephone did as she was taught. She reached her hand out a bit, before curling her fingers to allow the man to stand.
"The King would wish to see his wife for this evening's dinner."
Persephone was dumbfounded for a moment. Perhaps it was… over-dramatic of her, but she had assumed that these next three months would be much like the past two days: Hades and she would live separate lives under the same roof. Perhaps that was why she compulsively said, "Yes, of course I'll be there!" to avoid such a thing. It took a moment or two after the servant had left before she realized what she had said. Perhaps that was sounded too excited? Maybe Hades had only invited her to discuss just exactly how separate their lives would be and finally give Persephone her own set of activities to do that might assist in the running of the Underworld? Persephone didn't know, only avoided the curious gazes of her grandmother and aunt.
Persephone entered the small dining room, slipping in, skittish as a kitten. Hecate had shown her the way, the child only having been there once before – she still did not speak friendlily to the elder Goddess, but Hecate understood. Persephone needed something to vent her anger upon, and, if for just a little while, Hecate was that thing, she could accept it. The girl had changed her clothes, wearing a burgundy red, her hair once more done up. She didn't know why she wanted to look pretty… perhaps she only wanted Hades to think she was pretty… so that he wouldn't be so angry anymore. She felt stupid now.
The goddess gave a glance at Hades, standing there, so uncomfortably, and immediately felt even more out of her element. She didn't wait for him, darting to her seat. It was rude, not to let him help her in, but she didn't think she could bear him so close, without the weight of their relationship, of their mistakes coming down on her. It was as if everything wrong had been put under a heavy light… and he was so fragile… was she fragile too?
Giving a glance towards the food, a blush touched Persephone's cheek unexpectedly. She knew every single one of the foods. Casseroles and salads, warm bread and pies… this looked like a feast for peasants. Certainly not for one of the three kings of the Universe… And in the center, the only dish that might grace a royal table, were Egyptian goose eggs. Persephone found a lump in her throat.
Skipping even a proper greeting, she looked up towards her husband. "These are my favorites. You did this for me?" Her voice grew small. "I was so sure you hated me now… and you… you mustn't… because of this… right?" Again, the girl looked away. Her words were obviously for herself, trying to convince herself her preconceived notion was wrong… and also looking for Hades' approval. That, no, he did not hate her.
"You haven't shaved… Hecate says you like a clean face. I'm sorry. I didn't know how to shave you. And Hecate thought I should… when I visited… but I didn't want to cut you…" She was rambling, a characteristic of hers when anxious, just as she changed topics, skipped around serious subjects, and chewed her lower lip when unhappy or confused. "Everything looks… looks so lovely… it'd almost be a shame to eat it… don't you think?" It was as if she were unable to stop talking, trying to stall an unwanted answer of Hades' affections towards her. "You must have very good cooks to do this… though it must not be much to someone like you…have you had any of these dishes? Oh, is that wine? I never did try it that night, nor the ambrosia, but I should like to…"
Hades
Hades lifted his head quickly when his wife entered the room. His eyes focused upon her, looking her down to appreciate the lovely burgundy gown that favored her well. It did not seem appropriate at that time to mention it, certainly not when she immediately darted to her chair without a word. He shifted uncomfortably with that motion she made, especially when she glanced at the food with a blush on her cheeks. He believed that last part was supposed to be a good sign. Yet he couldn't bring himself to be upset. He wasn't. Not even as she skipped greeting him entirely and instead began to speak. It was to be expected and not insulting. Instead, his face softened at her words, how she asked the question of whether or not he had done this for her. He clasped his hands behind his back.
"I did it for you," he agreed at last. "Even if it is a small thing, I wanted your happiness. If I could bring it to you in a small way, then I would." But he did not continue. Not as she began to speak once more, voice small and faltering.
His face grew serious once more at the mention of hatred. But he still did not speak. He would not interrupt her, especially since her words came so soon one after another. She was rambling.
At last, he lifted his hand as if to silence her, the other in a loose fist at the small of his back. "May I speak?" he asked, lowering his hand. He didn't look at all annoyed, instead faintly amused. He moved to her side without sitting, taking her hand and kissing the palm. "Hello." Black eyes turned up to look into her face; in those depths that same smile that touched his lips, even if it was faint. He held her hand between both of them. "I am glad you came. And, now... no, I am not angry... no… I do not hate you. Persephone, never think it. Yes, I was hurt, deeply so. I needed time for myself and it is here I was in the wrong. I could not deal with it as I should have... giving my hands and mind something to do drew me away from what haunted the darkness in my heart. I knew I would be losing you, if only for a time, and having that knowledge after the hope of knowing you would remain... was difficult." His head dipped some. "I am sorry, I did not want to cause you pain and uncertainty. There is much I must learn and come to terms with. As a husband, I have failed in many ways already. My darling one, I did this for you... hoping for it to be a place we could start over. Or at least try to do so. I... do not want you to think I hate you. Anything I can do... anything at all, I will do for you. I want your happiness and I will give it to you if it is in my power to do so. Only ask, and do not be afraid to."
He paused, releasing her hand and instead scratched at his cheek. "Was that it? I assumed that this was because you liked it this way. So I never shaved it." An obvious attempt to tease her. He lowered his hand again. I hope you don't mind. Should I keep it?" He moved and took his own seat, lowering himself down. He took a breath. He felt somewhat proud of himself. He had taken the first step and felt pretty confident about it. Hopefully it would have a good effect. A servant approached when he sat and filled his glass. "You may have whatever you want," he told her. "The wine or the ambrosia. I think you will enjoy both. This is a different type of wine. I thought you may enjoy it... it is warmer and fruity. I... had it brought from Olympus. Perhaps it will remind you of home... and is not as cold as the rest of this world. Please... eat. After this... I want to show you something. It is long overdue."
Persephone
Persephone stopped as Hades asked to speak, raising his arm in the air. He had lost a lot of muscle, and she frowned, feeling a pang of sadness for causing it to happen, for causing him to grow weak. Still, when he smiled... smiled at her, her frown disappeared. Her eyes grew wide, almost comically so, the blue irises bright. It seemed that, through it all, Persephone could still grab to the slightest chance of hope, watching him with this attentiveness that seemed so out of character for her. She flushed even deeper when Hades gave her a simple greeting. She had completely forgotten! Even growing up in isolation, Persephone still understood that people tended to at least say 'hello' to one another!
"H-hello…" she responded quietly, putting her fingers over her mouth, using the hand that Hades had not gently reached for. His presence made her hot, the way he looked down at her, his own black irises glittering. The way he kissed not the back of her hand but her very palm itself, as if it were her lips… Persephone found she was, in fact, not crushed under regret, as she had assumed she would be should he come near. She only found words hard to come by.
Perhaps it was because he did not look in the slightest bit unhappy. Not overjoyed, but tickled a bit, as if he found her funny. It brought back a memory so fast it stung, the one of them in Demeter's cottage, him smiling so sweetly, mischievously, as he ate her blueberry pie filling. A surge of good feelings rushed through Persephone's bosom. Those good feelings grew even stronger as Hades denied his hate for her. Such a strange sound came from her mouth then: a gasp and giggle both caught together. She closed her lips after. The girl felt ashamed at his hurt, but Hades… Hades still only spoke of his pain of that to be losing her: not her trickery in words.
He was not angry with her. There was so much hope.
When the King began to apologize, though, Persephone shook her head, adamantly, furiously perhaps. She parted her lips once more to speak, but stopped at the affectionate term: my darling one. She ought not grow teary at simple words, but her eyes misted for but a moment.
"I have failed you too," she declared, when he had paused. "No more apologies, though! If you would not want me to be apologetic, you must not be either… We must not fail anymore." The girl spoke as if it were the easiest thing in the world. It was as if her energy had magically renewed: as if it were tied to Hades, the one who she gazed at so intensely. The good feelings… it made her heart race as she giddily took her hand back, returning Hades' smile. For a moment, she was back in the meadow, unchanged by all, giggling at Hades' smile as she led him around the meadows.
Pausing though, as Hades' spoke of his beard, Persephone was momentarily confused. Well, yes, of course that was the reason. She… Oh, oh, he was teasing her! The girl gave a giggle; surprised that Hades would still tease her!
"Well, yes, I do like it!" she agreed, cocking her head as Hades sat. "It makes you look different, yes, but it is lovely! Please keep it! It's very strange, though, as I cannot grow hair there! And I fear it may tickle if…" Persephone paused, grabbing an egg from the platter and stuffing it in her mouth to keep herself from talking. She had certainly gone too far. Still, she did not want Hades to think she was upset… or upset him… Chewing quickly, she swallowed with a harsh lump – it was a struggle, going down her small throat, and she coughed. "Ifyoushouldtrytokissmeisall," the child spoke so fast, she combined the sentence into one giant word. When Hades had been delirious, he had asked for her kisses, but perhaps he felt uncomfortable about it now that he seemed in a much… steadier mindset.
Steering the conversation, Persephone smiled once more. "I shall try both! But while I am here… please call this my home. I will live here for much of… forever!" She crinkled her nose, thanking the servant who filled her glass. Her eyes narrowed in curiosity though when told there was more to this night. "What is it? Surely you aren't so mean that you would not tell me?" Persephone was teasing him back, lightly, her cheeks seemingly forever pink as she lifted the wine to her lips, taking a sip. "Oh, it tastes sour!" She giggled, pursing her lips, deciding whether or not it was a nice flavor. "It is pungent." She took another sip. "And warm."
Hades
"Alright," he responded agreeably when she told him not to apologize. His head tipped to her, eyes softening. The confidence with which she spoke pleased him immensely. Her uncertainty disappeared, for a moment, as if it were completely gone, replaced, instead, by that almost giddy smile. Though still momentarily touched by confusion, he could see the walls between them beginning, for a moment, to unravel. They still stepped around each other uncertainly but now they were beginning to fully approach each other.
Yet, when she spoke of his beard, he paused, brows lifting. At first she appeared enthusiastic before she suddenly stopped, pushing an egg into her mouth as if to stifle her own words. He leaned forward, his chin resting on his linked fingers. His lashes lowered, lips pulling up into a faint smile. "If what, Persephone?" he asked, his tone prodding. She was chewing, trying to swallow a piece that was a bit too big. Her words came very fast but he understood them easily. He leaned back and chuckled, scratching at his chin again with his eyes turned to the ceiling. "Ah, is that all?" Though, before he could continue, she had quickly changed the subject to another. His smile vanished, face unreadable though his eyes were confused. Her home. "Yes," he responded, face softening again in response. "It is... your home, our home." His hands clasped in his lap tightly. He just nearly missed her next words and actions in trying the wine. She had said something before that...
"Ah, no, not cruel. Simply a surprise, Persephone. It would ruin the surprise if I told you, don't you think?" He picked up his own glass after that and put it to his lips. He closed his eyes. "Though, I agree with you. You have a good taste in wine. But I believe you will enjoy the ambrosia much more. Only the gods can ever so much as taste it. Though it has a peculiar quality that makes it very much like wine... and different to each who tastes it. For you to have never tasted it… I am surprised. Though you must taste it to understand." He lifted his hand and made a quick gesture. The servant moved forward and filled a different glass with a soft pink liquid that smelled sweetly of rose, warm and aromatic.
Hades trusted Thanatos to keep things in hand. He had for the months he had been bedridden. Yet, he knew well that he would be angry with him. He leaned back in his chair, face thoughtful, gaze distant. He would have to make it up to him somehow, he decided. But, at the same time, he had done something he should not have. The situation would have to be handled delicately. It filled his mind the entire meal, the situation with Thanatos, his once dearest friend.
It was not until the dinner was over and things were cleared away that he stood and went to her seat. He rested his hand on the back. "Would you like to go now? I want to show you this realm that you are queen of... this home. I never have shown you anything beyond the walls of the palace and even then not even much. There are many who dwell here and you've met very few. Though, not all of them... would be pleased to meet you." He sighed. "But this world is large. Would you like to see it with me, Persephone?"
Persephone
Persephone smiled, giving a nod. "Yes… it would ruin a surprise, I suppose." Her eyes met his for just a moment before looking away, as usual, embarrassed as to what she might see there, though a tiny smile seemed forever painted upon her lips. The girl's stomach bubbled warm from the wine, as did her heart from the easy… well, no, not easy, but easier flow of conversation. She could still feel some traces of anxiety, of nervousness, of fear, even. That the Hades from earlier would emerge – the confused, angry one… or perhaps, even worse, the Hades who did not want to be around her. Who ignored her.
As a servant came to fill a second glass, Persephone thanked him once more. Taking the glass this time, giving a sniff of the liquid, she was surprised – it did not smell like a drink, but more a perfume: very aromatic. Still, despite it not being typical, Persephone brought it to her lips, sipping it. She swallowed, her brows furrowed. Well… that tasted very good. It tasted like… she couldn't quite describe it. Like blueberry pie and fresh apples and honey… like chocolate strawberries and peach cobbler…
Persephone downed the rest of the drink in a gulp. "Could I have some more?" she asked the servant, as if he were in charge of giving it to her. The man merely poured her another drink instead of answering, and Persephone sipped once more, trying, trying not to down was… the best thing she had ever tasted, she thought.
The rest of the meal was in relative silence, but the difference was, it was a more comfortable silence, though Persephone avoided speaking unless Hades spoke first – walls might have been breaking, but she thought Hades might agree if she analyzed them as walking on eggshells a bit. The girl still managed to smile, and ate too much, as usual, more than one would have guessed for her size. Persephone also went through another three glasses of ambrosia (and one of wine). Not only was the drink delicious, it made her feel… better? Stronger? Maybe both. By the time Hades came to her, Persephone was more than sated, playing idly with what was left on her plate with a fork. She hummed slightly, cheeks pink as her plate was cleared away as well. The Goddess titled her head to watch her husband, who stood so near. His presence caused a giggle to rise from her and her smile grew. It was obvious she was a bit tipsy, the way her gaze was slightly glazed, but nothing serious: only enough to give her that carefree attitude.
"Oh yes, I am quite finished," she said thoughtfully, titling her head. Her mouth dropped though in surprise at Hades' next words. Her body posture grew childish, excited, her hands clenched into fits. "Oh, yes! Can we?" She had wanted to leave the black walls of this palace for so long – to wander somewhere, to do something. She had been cooped up for too long, had been too unhappy for too long… and now, Hades wanted to fix that, as well as enjoy his world with her.
Her eyes suddenly widened and she furrowed her fists in her lap. What if too much time together would spoil what they had just created? She didn't know. Maybe he would grow tired of her… or she would be unable to be interesting any longer? Hades still looked preoccupied through dinner and she didn't want to bother him, if this was at all a burden.
A frown touched her at an off-handed statement, though, and she was torn from her thoughts. "Why would your subjects not like me? Have I offended them?" Persephone swallowed. "I… I don't think I have done anything wrong to them… unless perhaps… they blame me for…" She did not continue. Instead, the child tried to fix the situation, not wanting to bring back any unhappiness into their evening, "Maybe you are wrong," she said, instead. "Perhaps they would like me." She reached out, as if to catch Hades' hand in her own, as she did once before… but her fingertips only brushed his.
She was taking this too quickly, was too excited. This would come crashing down on them, wouldn't it? It typically did whenever Persephone thought there would be some happiness in their marriage. She was spoiling it, and she would stop herself before it was too late. Absolutely no making anyone uncomfortable.
Persephone stood, entwining her own fingers behind her own back, bestowing Hades with her tipsy grin. Her eyes were clouded though, as if apologizing for attempting to touch him, to hold him in any way intimately.
"Nothing would make me happier then to go with you. Nothing in all three worlds," she declared.
Hades
"Well," Hades responded with a faint laugh, "you are not what they were looking for, if you must know, Persephone. They expected me to wed someone much different. I am the lord of the Underworld who shepherds death. You are a goddess of the earth and life. Perhaps I am wrong," he responded, his eyes softening as he returned his gaze to her. "Perhaps they will. You… change those you are near, and no one can help but love you." Her fingers tightened behind her back after attempting to reach out and grab his, apparently thinking better of it. Her eyes spoke volumes, once more opening up her soul to him. "Then, let me show you. There are those that are unkind, Persephone, and care for nothing but their own interests. Sometimes, not even then. There are places you should never go except when at my side. This is not a place to explore aimlessly without myself or Hecate with you." He extended his hand to her, tipping his head with the faintest of smiles that could very well have been shy. "At my side, though, you need not fear anything."
To their back he always kept the dark, looming mountains of Tartarus and the flaming Phlegethon that forever guarded it. What he wished to show her the most of anything were the fields of Elysium and Asphodel. It was a long walk but one he did not mind at the least and hoped she did not either. These fields, he believed, she would find the most comfortable and the most at home in. The Asphodel fields were not far from his castle but rather just beyond the river Styx, north of Tartarus. It was a great field that seemed to stretch as far as the eye could see. Though illuminated, it was not illuminated as the world above was - by the sun. Rather, the source of the light was the great river Styx and the strange plants that grew only in the underworld. It was something he showed her first in passing then decided to stay for a time because of the opportune time that they had come. The river itself flowed from endless Okeanós and spelled the changing and progressing of time in the otherwise unchanging underworld. He explained it to her as before their eyes the dark blue waters shimmered green then gold in a flood of light. Not even he fully understood why it did so, changing to its many hues throughout the day. Even with its strange, unearthly beauty, it was still extremely dangerous and he warned her sternly of it: to go nowhere near the river. But, the river was constant and reliable in it's changing, becoming that source of time for the underworld inhabitants. It took on every color imaginable by the mind, only a few able to discern each and every color that appeared upon it. Though, not all the colors appeared at equal lengths. It took time to learn how it worked, and when to expect it.
Yet, when they had eventually moved on to the fields of Asphodel, it was the "day" when the fields were illuminated. To have "night" and "day" was purely for the spirits who dwelt there. The long grasses that swayed in an unknown breeze were littered with silver six-petaled flowers that grew on long stalks. All around them could been seen only this one type of flower amongst the grasses. Asphodel, he told her. The air was filled with their aroma, sweet and intoxicating. At night, he made mention, when the light of Styx dimmed, they glowed in the darkness like millions of tiny stars to fill the air with light. At that time, however, they could not wait so long. Perhaps at another time he would show her when this occurred.
As they passed through, they encountered many spirits. Many of them stayed clear of them but some did not appear at all aware of their presence, intent on their own course. Yet, there were those who would approach at first with uncertainty than grow closer when neither deterred them. Some appeared old, others young, even children who would tug on his clothing then disappear with laughter hanging in the air. Most exchanges were wordless, a sort of acknowledgement passing between them. With one old man, Hades even stopped and extended his hand to him. It was taken and kissed, soft words of gratitude leaving his lips before he, too, went on his way. Hades said nothing to her about these things but seemed clearly at ease.
Thus, when they reached the Elysium fields, he did not warn her to what they would experience. Once passing the river Lethe, they entered the field that was much smaller but with an air only rivaled by Olympus itself. Here was the place of those favored by the gods. It was more than a simple plain but grand trees grew amongst the rich grasses. These trees held various fruits but all, in nature, were the same. They were the very fruits that he gave to Persephone - the fruit of the dead. He spoke briefly about the fruit but did not make the connection. Rather, he made note that the asphodel flowers also grew here and in plenty. They littered the grass beneath their feet and let out their sweet aroma when crushed beneath their sandals. The breeze was warm and pulled at their hair and clothing, carrying aromatic smells beyond those of the flowers. The sound of water reached them, even voices of laughter and singing. There were others there as well, of course. Their activities were more vibrant and alive as if they truly were mortals who had not died. They lounged and played in utter comfort. They laughed and joked, took pleasure in drink, foods, and company. A large temple rose before them but he did not turn towards it. Instead, he was greeted now with much more exuberance as if with an old friend yet with still utter respect and humility. He had a faint smile on his lips especially when curiosity was directed towards his wife. If she stayed longer, he knew she would become he center of their attention and adoration. These were the lovers of happiness and comfort. How Olympus should have been, he thought sourly.
There was much more the Elysium fields had to offer and one of those was the mysterious glow of sunlight he gave no explanation for. It was definitely not the sun nor was it the water of Styx or the flowers. Rather, the warm glow seemed to fill the entire plain, radiating warmth like the sun itself. They did not linger but rather he led her off again but this time to less pleasurable spots. He wished her to see the good places in his realm... but also enough to scare her into not going farther than she should. It would be a lie to say there was no connection between him showing her around and the underworld deities being conveniently gathered elsewhere. It worked very well. He did not wish to have to run into them at this time. Even so, he never showed her the Gates of Tartarus or the flaming river Phlegethon. The last place he went was to meet someone that would not go to the meeting with the gods of the Underworld. It was a lonely being she had seen a few times but never actually met. He was a bit wary but knew it would have to happen some time. And, he preferred it happened when he was around. Thus, just before the fork where rivers Styx, Phlegethon, and Cocytus met, he led her to the one who guarded the Underworld, one who had been a gift.
Cerberus was one she had seen before but he doubted she had good memories of. Now would be a good time to meet. How she would take to the beast depended on how it acted, he decided.
"This," he murmured, "is Cerberus. I am certain you know of him but you had never actually met." He moved behind her and rested his hand over hers. He turned it over so her palm was lifted upwards, his just beneath her. "Do not worry, he will do you no harm while I am here." His voice was reassuring as the great three-headed dog appeared from the darkness, looming above them. Globs of foamy saliva formed at the mouths, red eyes appearing to glow in the darkness. Around its neck was a leash that's size would have allowed her old home to fit well inside of it. He went still, eyes focused on the dog as it watched with all six eyes, one head lowering then all three so it's stale breath washed over them heavily. A low growl formed in its throat of the middle head, so close it made the air vibrate.
Persephone
Persephone felt strange as Hades claimed that she was not what his realm was looking for – that they would have preferred a different goddess. Her eyebrows furrowed and she lowered her gaze, feeling strangely ashamed. That upset her! Did he not see? She had not exactly asked for such a thing… and now to feel so… second to someone else she now imagined: a woman with a stern gaze and a sterner hand… smart… clever… Persephone swallowed the lump her throat, raising her head to glare at him. And yet, it seemed that he was able to stop her from being hurt in the process. Hades own eyes softened as her slightly glazed ones hardened, saying things such as perhaps he was wrong. That everyone could grow to love her. Like he had, she supposed. It was enough. Enough that while Persephone had originally thought twice of reaching her hand out for Hades, she did tentatively take the hand her husband offered her.
Still, Hades did not feel as a husband should (or at least how Persephone assumed a husband should), but… it didn't mean it was not nice to once more hold the large hand of the god within her own small one. It did not mean it was not nice to have their fingers entwined.
"I want to see. I will stay by your side," she murmured. She would be a liar to say the Underworld did not scare her. All she knew of it was that it was an unfriendly place with even less friendly inhabitants. That bad things happened to those that went to the place called Tartarus and that horrors beyond her wildest dreams waited there. Even if it did scare her, she felt a sort of thrill. A strange thrill, but a thrill. Leaving this dark palace was something she had wanted to do for a while. Before, to escape, and now… so that she didn't feel so confined. Never had she thought her mother's lands would be freeing, but they were. Perhaps the palace was as big as Demeter's valley, but it was much more encaging. There was no air for this Upperworld flower, no sunshine, no warmth. She needed that. Besides this, Persephone did trust Hades to keep her safe, to keep her sound. If she was correct, he still… he still loved her... maybe. And if so, then he would want her to remain unharmed.
And so they went. Persephone had assumed they would travel in silence, as Hades seemed to prefer such a thing… after all, their dinner had been had mostly in silence. A silence that was still uncomfortable for Persephone. She did not like to be quiet so long… She had actually been afraid that perhaps Hades would always be distant from her, a thought she wished to expel for it sounded… well, it sounded very bratty. She only felt nervous. Hades had been distant before he fell into his sleep… and was certainly now. The only time he was not distant had been before they were 'married'. No, in her home, he had been warm and gleeful and had spun her around. He had fed her pie batter and dipped her in his arms and that was the husband she wanted if she were to have Hades for her husband. She did not need nor did she want an Iron King. Still, she had to remember his tears, just after their marriage, the ones that he did not let fall at their first dinner together… and then she as well had to remember the many tears she had seen fall on his bed after he had held her in his arms for the first time, just after awakening. Persephone knew to admit that she was the cause of his pain. It was not as if some was not well deserved… yet, Persephone was not mean-hearted, certainly not to those she cared for. She did love Hades though still did not know yet how to voice such a shy statement. At least she could stop herself this once when she was acting a child, expecting immediate gratification. Looking up at him as they walked, she gave the hand she was holding a squeeze, letting her face soften.
And she was promptly surprised. Hades was not silent. In fact, he spoke of the places they were going. Persephone's eyes lit in delight. A field. A simple field, after all, for it was meant to house the typical, average mortals… and that was the most amazing thing she could ask for. Never in the girl's entire life had she been so excited to see a field.
"Oh my!" she cried, a hint of that original girl from many months ago re-emerging. The one who carried so much joy. "That sounds so lovely!" And it did. The river, Okeanós, the changing times, the underworld botanical life… Persephone listened the entire time Hades spoke, quietly, intently: a rarity in a girl like her. Her head nodded, her eyes strangely large and round, only upon Hades' face, not so much as flitting from side to side. It was a rare sight to see the child of Demeter so intent on learning, but intent she was. She wanted to absorb all she could about Hades' home… she wanted to impress him by knowing the kingdom she now shared in ruling.
When they finally came to the fields of Asphodel, the mirror-like quality it presented to where she had grown up nearly shattered Persephone's foundation. Her legs shook and she smiled so broadly it looked like it must have hurt her cheeks. And instead of letting go of Hades hand, when Persephone started to run, as she would typically do, she tried to drag her husband along with her. "Look, look!" She cried. "It's beautiful!"
Everything seemed to have its own soft glow. As if it were all painted in the lightest layers of gold. She tumbled into the grass. The stalks seemed strange to the feel, but nonetheless welcome as she absorbed what she could from the life that lay within them. It was, perhaps, not the type of life she was used to, but it could not be denied to be life. What truly caught Persephone's eye though were the flowers: asphodel. She touched at their petals softly, mussing her dress as she rolled to stroke each of the six.
Eventually, when she finally had enough of rolling through the hills like a young girl, and she and Hades walked like a proper couple ought to, she saw many other things – she saw men and women and children. The children would run to Hades sometimes and tug upon his clothes, sometimes upon her hand, and she would laugh. The men and women would mostly nod and she would watch Hades nod back. When an older man stopped, to kiss Hades hand, Persephone swallowed, squeezing the hand she held of her husband's in turn. It seemed he was well loved in his realm. She knew nothing about how equally, perhaps more, he was hated.
Persephone was sad to leave the Asphodel fields as Hades told her naught of where they would go next, but follow she did. He did not explain of where they would go next. It gave her time to appreciate the quiet and instead, look at what was constantly behind her. She turned her head often, craning her neck. She could see a huge flaming river that she had no name for. Her eyes had originally widened as she turned back to Hades, wondering if he was unimpressed after seeing it for so long, if he even noticed it anymore. Beyond that, she saw mountains – dark, foreboding… dangerous… but after a while, when she realized he truly didn't care to mention anything of it, she merely pondered it quietly to herself, assuming that they would be traveling there after they finished going where they were currently heading.
What first hit her of this new place was the smell. It smelled like it had upon Olympus. A fresh, spring day (though it was winter upon Olympus), and she smiled, as if there were a living happiness bubbling in the air they breathed. She stared up at the trees, finding them much taller than the ones she had grown up with. Hanging from their branches were the pomegranates she had eaten previously… and apples… and oranges… she gave a quick glance to Hades, wetting her mouth, wondering if they had the same properties as the one he had fed to her. Her smile momentarily parted for a deep frown, before she shook off the feelings of betrayal.
Forgiveness. She didn't have to forget, but she did need to forgive.
Instead of lingering, she nodded at Hades as he spoke of the same flowers she had seen in the Asphodel fields. "This place is lovelier then imaginable… I did not think it could get more beautiful than Asphodel. You are a generous god to give the humans such a place to go to after death."
Persephone glanced down at the grass for a moment, furrowing her brows. "It does not die when you stand here. Is it dead already as well?" Hades didn't necessarily have to answer – Persephone was musing to herself, half interested, half focused upon the scenery around her. The people here were different: there were very few children, but the men and women would walk to Hades and actually grasp his hand, as if friends, before smiling, nodding, and leaving. They did not look on her with such affection, but with the same amount of respect, and she was confused. Did Hades love these mortals or were they merely well loved by all the Gods? They certainly loved Hades, treating him as a friend… well, as Artemis or Athena treated mother… not as she treated her friends. A bit more reserved.
Looking about a bit more, she saw men and women wandering together, holding hands carelessly. Circles of humans played the lute or laughed together… All were nude, she thought, flushing, and they seemed careless to it. Some by the river… they were entwined. They looked even happier than the others if possible… and they were very loud…
Persephone gasped, averting her eyes, her cheeks bright ride. Were they… were they loving in public? She was glad to leave then, her heart fluttering, palms suddenly sweaty. She supposed it made sense… to have no reservations… but… but…
"They… did you see that?" she asked quietly as they walked further, but Hades seemed distracted and she did not wish to bother him. It took a bit of time before they made it to their last location, but make it they did. She saw the three rivers of the Underworld, but between them, there was darkness, a cave of sorts.
Cerberus.
She heard Hades say the name and her heard flew into her throat, her eyes suddenly wide. She could remember him from when she had first come into this realm, sniffing her, panting… oh… oh she didn't want to do this. It was true, she had not met him formally, but seeing him had been enough for her weak continence.
"Hades… I don't…"
But her husband was already holding her hand outward for the beast, reassuring her of her safety. "I… I'm scared… please…" Persephone trembled, seeing the three, giant heads come from the darkness. "H-h-h," she gasped as she stared up. He was so big, so much larger then she had remembered. "Hello," she managed to squeak out, pushing herself further into Hades, though she made no move to retract her hand. It seemed frozen in place. If the dog could sense fear, he would most likely taste hers, it was so evident upon her body.
As the head leaned down, Persephone closed her eyes. "He's growling… he's growling at me… he doesn't like me… he…" And then, something wet touched her hand. Persephone opened her eyes to find just the tip of a huge tongue touching her palm. Persephone blinked. Then… gave the shakiest, smallest of smiles.
"Oh," she whispered. Another brush of warm air touched them. She moved her hand from Hades' slowly, but stopped when she heard another deep growl. Moving even slower, she touched his nose with the lightest of touches. And the dog did nothing. Stood stiff, though glanced at Hades, as if unsure what to do, before darting another tongue from the right head to touch the back of her hand. Baring his middle head's teeth, Persephone brushed her hand over the nose and Cerberus's mouth closed.
"Look!" she whispered, smiling at Hades. "Look, look! Does he like me?" she asked in an excited whisper, though her eyes were still upon the great beast, afraid her might change his mind about her. "Will he guard us when we see Tartarus?"
Hades
He expected her to be afraid so he wasn't put-off by her terror. He was pleased, though, that she leaned on him for comfort. He stood firm though his touch was gentle. He allowed her to figure it out herself. They interacted and his face softened. Cerberus wasn't a bad dog. But he did his job well. He made no move to prevent its interaction with his wife, an open invitation to the beast. Hades laughed at her sudden excitement, the sound feeling very odd to him for some reason. To laugh.
"Who cannot love you, my love?" he asked in a fond tone. "I think you could be very good friends." Though, his words ended in an odd note, the smile on his face dimming even in his eyes. His face grew grim. "No, he will not. We will not be going to such a place." He turned his head towards the burning flames in the distance and Cerberus growled low in his throat. He turned her face towards him gently but firmly. "You will never venture there. There are those twisted ones who lay in the darkness held back only by flame and my presence. The strength it would take to protect you in that place I do not have at this time." His face grew stern. "Do you hear me? You will never venture there. Especially not alone." He then leaned in, lips pressing slowly to hers.
Enjoy, enjoy, your long awaited chapter. You had better enjoy!