Chapter 4

Minthe looked back angrily as Charon silently gestured for her to board the boat back to the surface.

There had been no goodbyes. Hecate had come to her door and delivered the message and a box from Hades. In the box were pieces of gold. The message: Minthe was to be sent to Hades' sister Demeter to be one of her handmaidens and help out with the baby.

She had known of the displeasure Hades had started to feel towards her the second or third week after she had come down with him to the Underworld. Perhaps, she was too eager and quick to ask for gowns and jewels. Perhaps, she had little concern for the workings of his kingdom. All she saw was power and wealth – things that would come to her as soon as the King of the Underworld could be wound around her little finger.

Now, she was cast out and being sent to his sister and her precious baby. She scowled at the indignity. She deserved more than this. She deserved to be Queen.

Minthe haughtily surveyed the ruined landscape leading to the gates of the palace. She grimaced. What had happened to the mortal world? Demeter surely was not one to neglect the mortals she loved and who loved her back.

The gardens within the gate were rich and verdant. Already, Demeter had started to repair the damage done by her neglect as the foliage had started to spread somewhat beyond the walls of her estate.

Now this is more like it, thought Minthe. Such a beautiful and rich place befitting a future queen! She thought about Demeter and her future son. A son that would rightfully inherit his mother's domain! The son of the mighty Zeus and beautiful Demeter! Surely he would inherit his father's power and his mother's beauty! Visions of Hades disappeared as she plotted to win the favor of her future mother-in-law.

"Would My Lady like anything else before she retires?" Minthe crooned sweetly as she finished brushing Demeter's long auburn hair.

"No, dear, dear Minthe," yawned Demeter, "My child will come any day soon and I am so sleepy."

Minthe led Demeter to her bed and helped her up to it.

"Dear Minthe," sighed Demeter as Minthe tucked her in, "You are such a comfort to me. I am so glad Hades sent you…."

Minthe smiled as she blew out the candles and headed towards the door.

"I am so glad, too, Mother!" Minthe said under her breathe, dreaming of a future god husband.