The old man studied the information on the computer. It included a description of what Persephone looked like, her life before Hades, etc.

"This girl is the daughter of my counterpart from an alternate universe," the old man said slowly, leaning back in the chair and resting his elbows on the arms of the chair. Beside him, Ace had been sleeping peacefully until he began to stir.

I leaned on the chair. "Yes."

"Did she tell you anything about what happened after her disappearance?"

"She said she took hostage with Lord Hades." I let go of the old man's chair. He looked at me in shock and concern.

"Lord Hades?!"

"Yes."

He turned back to the computer. "Did she say anything about why Hades sent her here?"

"Said he was in trouble with Zeus. His lightning bolt went missing but she said Hades didn't take it. She also said something about an assignment. Persephone said she would go back once Hades contacted her. He hadn't by the time you came back. She gave me her email."

The old man turned his chair around, resting his elbows in the usual position and leaning forward.

"Can you do me a favour and email her?"

I read the response Persephone sent me six times. It was pretty clear she was upset about the old man knowing about her. She said she would come just as long as I was there. When I finished reading it for the sixth time, I forwarded it to the old man, as she asked me to do because she attached a letter in the email which she asked me not to read.

It's something personal, she wrote.

"She wants me to be here with you," I said as I ran to the door to answer it. Ace ran behind me, barking.

I opened the door, and saw Persephone there, wearing a black rain coat, even though the Gotham sunshine was pouring in. Her arms were crossed, and her face wore an expression I couldn't recognize. She didn't say anything, and came in, hanging her coat on the coat hanger. She didn't even look at me.

Persephone sat on the couch. The old man sent me a look telling me to go. I opened my mouth but then shut it closed because she sent me a pleading look.

Go, she mouthed.

So much for being a support to her during her meeting with the old man.