Chapter 35
(I do not own anything. Please read and review thank you.) I had a blood clot not too long ago that almost turned out pretty bad. I've been having some issues as of late as to why I'm not posting near as much or fast. I hope to be getting better soon. It comes and goes. I apologize. Dark times are sure to come in later chapters. Please beware… Also I do not claim to know everything about Greek Mythology and I have twisted the characters into what I want for my story. Thank you!
"Cass?" Bella questions as she tiredly rolls over.
He'd his arm about her, both still in the field. She lifts up and looks around. She reaches over and gently shakes her husband.
"Cass baby…"
His eyes open and lock with hers. Bella comes to her feet and her eyes widen back towards Cass. She quickly hides behind him.
"Why am I naked?!"
He looks around seeing what's left of her dress in shreds about the grass.
"I ripped it off you." He says with a shrug.
Bella blushes.
"Um… well that's hot and all, but I really don't want to wander about wherever we are in the buff."
Cass nods, but reaches back running his hand along her rear.
"Cass!" She scolds, but with a grin.
He slightly smiles and turns to face her. Cass places his hand about her cheek and kisses her. They turn however, to the clearing of a throat.
"Am I interrupting something?"
Bella rolls her eyes and Cass does his best to keep her covered. Perseus tosses Cass another white gown.
"For your wife."
Cass nods and hands it back towards Bella as she dresses behind him, Perseus smiles.
"You're a very lucky man… Cass? Is it?"
Cass nods again.
"Right so Cass and Bella, quite a couple you are."
Bella finishes up and steps out beside Cass.
"Are either of you hungry? Thirsty perhaps?"
Cass and Bella exchange glances and Perseus laughs.
"Come follow me."
Cass takes his wife's hand as they follow Perseus. They come across this picnic area where others are already gathered and eating. Blankets lay about the field and wicker baskets filled with food lay about each one.
"Perseus?"
He glances upon Bella.
"Where are we exactly?"
He smiles and pops a grape in his mouth.
"The underworld."
"Underworld? You mean like Hell?"
"Hell? No not exactly. It is much different from what your world calls Hell. If that even exist."
Bella looks to Cass shaking her head.
"Oh believe me it does."
Perseus looks to her strangely.
"HM, well there are many parts to the underworld here. Whereas you have a Heaven and Hell we do not. Everything around here is our afterlife."
"Are you saying we're dead?"
Perseus has a good laugh.
"No my lady I assure you. Neither of you are dead. All the more reason though it isn't safe for you to stay here much longer. I'm not quite sure of the consequences. You both are not of our world. Soon others will take notice and begin to seek you out as a threat."
"So if this is the underworld, how come it's so pretty and peaceful?"
"As I said it is different. Our underworld isn't simply Hell as yours is. We've different realms to our underworld."
They take their seats amongst one of the blue picnic blankets. Perseus pours them each a chalice of wine. He motions his hand about the Lake and points to the area of the river's in connection
"We've five rivers. Each has certain names that have to do with the area in which you are in the underworld. There is the Styx it is the central river of the underworld and is also the most well-known. It is the river of hatred. It circles the entire underworld nine times. It is important to take extra precaution when near or attempting to cross it.
Acheron, river of immense pain it is what ships the dead to Hades which is to be said something like of your Lucifer. He runs parts of the underworld, but not the area we are currently in. Lethe, the river of oblivion, it causes you to forget… whether it be certain aspects of your life or completely. Phlegethon river of fire which leads to Tartarus the area in which my very own father had made. Zeus of course…He'd created this as his own way to cast others away. It is there they pay for their sins against my father. To betray the gods is not something taken lightly. It is said that some are tormented by having food and drink taken beyond his reach. He must watch in eternity as others drink and eat to their hearts content. One soul has been punished by having to push a giant rock up slope, once it rolls back down they are to start over. The worst and most heart wrenching story I've heard is the woman that has a mirror put in front of her. She must look on as her family moves on without her. She'd committed infidelity with her husband. He a god she was not. It isn't something taken lightly when a god choses you to become his or her mate. To disrespect them in such a way is a death sentence. She was cast away here to watch as her husband moves on with another woman she in her place, caring for him and their children whom now refer to the other woman as their mother and have forgotten her very existence.
Then you have Cocytus the river of never ending cries. There is no need for further explanation on that one it's exactly as is.I've already mentioned Tartarus. However, amongst this world there are other areas. Such as The Fields of Punishment – an area for those that have committed certain crimes against the gods. Hade's is the decipher for your punishment once you're cast away here. It usually depends on the crime of what his decision maybe. Fields of Asphodel – place of indifference. This is the area for ones that haven't committed any certain crime, yet they've not done enough to earn the gateway into the Elysian Fields. They are sent here when there is nowhere else they belong. That was where we are." He points up ahead. That is Elysium- it is as your heaven. It is where the righteous and heroes may live their afterlife in peace." He looks to Bella.
"I held you however in the Isles of the Blessed; where I'd wish to rekindle my love with my wife, my princess. Which I greatly apologize for and know I can never make up. I can honestly plead insanity. Love does funny things to you and it wasn't until she opened my eye I truly realized what I'd done. I'd become no better than the very monsters I've faced."
Bella looks to Cass and smiles.
"I think we may understand more than you can imagine."
Cass smiles in return. He places a cube of cheese in his mouth and drinks from the wine Perseus gave them.
"So you finally trust me?" Perseus says taking notice of this.
"You wouldn't do anything to harm my wife and I. Not since we've offered to help you get yours back."
Perseus smirks folding his arms about his chest.
"So a Hunter and his Huntress…" Perseus says handing Bella a vine of grapes.
He points to Cass.
"I've a feeling there is something more to you. Something's different. You do not act quite like a human or speak as though one. In some ways you speak as I as though from a different era or time even."
Bella fights the grin as she chews back on a grape and sips from her wine. Cass swallows back and nods.
"I've not been human for very long."
Perseus rather rears back at his words.
"And what were you before?"
"I was an angel of the Lord. I still serve him, but along the human's on earth."
"Very interesting… I knew there was something a bit off about you. So what brought you to this life altering decision? Couldn't have been love alone now could it?"
Cass looks upon Bella.
"She played a factor in my decision yes. However, there seems to be some quarreling behind the gates of Heaven. Rather than take sides amongst my brothers and sisters. I'd decided to join my lover and he brother on earth. I rather fight alongside of them."
"And your God allows such randomness? You will not be punished? Or sought out as one of the betrayed?"
"Our God believes in free will even amongst his angels. The Lord desires he be loved, feared and for us to know him, to never deny him."
"Ah, well he sounds like my father! The two should get together chat it out sometime!"
Bella almost chokes on her grapes. She cuts Cass a wide eyed expression. There are no other Gods before me. Stood loud and clear in her mind. Ok well did God mean there is no other God's period? Or just no others above him? She was half tempted to skim through her bible all over again just to see for sure. Even more tempted to ask Cass to clarify that, but didn't want to start a debate with Perseus. That and she doubted the place for that was here in the Greek Underworld.
Cass says nothing to this. In fact he doesn't even really react. The three of them continue to eat.
Once they're done, Perseus looks to Bella.
"So young huntress, just how do you suppose you'll help find my wife?"
Bella points to her head and casually shrugs.
"I've got her memories."
Perseus looks baffled.
"Pardon?"
"I know everything. I also think I knew where her body is. If I'm correct Cass and I can't leave, not yet. You're going to need our help for sure."
"Why do you say such things?"
"Because Cassiopeia holds her body captive."
"Are you certain of this?"
"No, it's only what I've seen. I figure it has to be this conclusion. Why else would she separate her soul from her body. She obviously doesn't want her dead. She just wanted her soulless. It's no secret even to us humans of the jealousy."
Perseus makes an ill face.
"It is sad isn't it?"
"Very." Bella agrees.
"Instead of taking pride, she took hatred upon her, her own daughter!" Perseus says clenching his jaw tightly.
"We'll get her back."
Bella says and pats his hand.
"It's a lot to ask of you. The danger only continues to rise the longer you both stay. I've grown rather fond of you both. I'd hate for anything to happen."
"But you want her back as well right?"
"Well yes of course more than anything."
Bella smiles.
"Then we will find her, then you can find a way to help my husband and I get back home. My brother and his girlfriend are waiting for us. Believe me you do not want Dean Winchester here. "
Even Cass smiles in thought and shakes his head.
"That you do not." He agrees.
Perseus narrows his eyes.
"Perhaps I shall like to meet this brother of yours?"
Bella's nose wrinkles.
"Nah… trust me you're better off."
"You do realize you've only grown my curiosity. What is this brother of yours like? Is he anything like you?"
Bella bites upon her lip looking back to Cass. He leans back against his elbows on the blanket.
"Dean can be somewhat perplexing." Cass says.
"Dean? Perplexing?" Bella questions.
"My brother?"
He nods as if sure of himself.
"He's never certain what he wants. It's difficult to get a good read on him. However, his faith as of late seems to be developing; whereas before it was hardly there at all. Dean is very valiant though often egotistical. He's a true warrior of the human species. Her brother has endured much starting out so young. Dean Winchester is a very honorable man that has overcome much darkness."
Bella's throat knotted up at her husband's words. She takes his hand and squeezes it gently.
"Now I truly wish to meet this brother of yours. It is rare for a husband to speak so highly of his brother in law. Yes you've managed to share his weakness, but showed much pride in his accomplishments."
Perseus comes to his feet then helps Bella to hers.
"And what of this woman?"
He twirls her around looking to Cass. Cass gets a sincere smile about his face.
"Isabella Winchester is the most spirited and loving of her kind. When I first met her she was strong in her faith however, not so much in herself. She was full of self-doubt and often sought to punish herself or not deem herself worthy of the Lord's blessing much less his love. Now that doesn't seem to be an issue." He says looking upon her with pride.
"I was an angel when I first met Bella. I believe without truly realizing it before I even raised her from perdition I'd grown rather attached to her. Something about her grasped my attention. She'd already my admiration and within time my honor, love and devotion. She's the most beautiful being I've ever known. She as well a very noble hunter."
"Wait did you say perdition?"
Cass nods.
"This one?" Perseus says in disbelief dropping his hand looking upon her.
"She was never meant to be there. It was my fault. Bella was sent there because of an artifact I was to handle. Due to my negligence I promptly did what I could to get her out. She'd suffered because, of me."
"Cass." Bella says shaking her head disapprovingly. She never once thought it was his fault. She hated it when he took the blame.
"Amazing… you two have some history. It seems he too has gone to the underground in hopes of saving you. Thankfully, succeeded as well. Perhaps we're all more alike than I ever imagined. Who'd have thought… An angel and human? In love? Extraordinary. So tell me how did you become human?"
"In simplest terms I more or less discarded my wings. Not long after I married Bella."
"Huh! And to think I was to take her life! I'm surely glad I didn't."
"Um yeah thanks?" Bella says not sure what to make of it.
Bella however, reaches to her temples. Cass comes to his feet perceiving this.
"Are you alright."
She nods.
"Just some of Andromeda's memories are a bit much to take in."
She looks to Perseus at one point and blushes. Some of the memories were of him and Andromeda during intimate moments. His eyes widen and he clears his throat looking to Cass.
"So you mean all her memories?"
"Damn near or so it feels most of her adult years anyhow."
Bella looks around then turns back towards Perseus.
"Her mother is here."
"Here?"
"Yes amongst the underworld. It all took place here, but another realm. There's the lake…" Bella points.
"Only it looks to be different from the point of few your wife had. Its somehow drearier, the air cooler. These feelings like abandonment, sadness, confusion…" Bella reaches to her heart.
"Bella?!" Cass rushes to her side and helps to support her as she bows over.
"It's not me it's her. Andromeda might not have her soul, but she's not dead either. She's trapped. It's dark. She can make out the lake, but as though through bars. Like a prison or caged area of some sort. Or at least that's where she was…"
Perseus takes in a breath.
"She sounds to be on the outskirts of Hade's palace." Perseus says looking to be ill.
"Possibly even within the gates."
"So what does that mean exactly?"
"Well… tell me Bella how do you feel about returning to Hell?"
Cass yanks Bella back behind him.
"She'll do such thing."
Perseus smiles.
"It sounds as though it is where my wife resides ironically enough. It is now my time to pull my wife from the clutches of the underworld."
"We shall help you get as far as the gates, but I will not risk my wife going back to something like that."
"I understand… however, there's just one small issue."
Cass sighs not liking the sound of this.
"What would that be?"
"I assume you both wish to go back home?"
They nod.
"It seems I've failed to mention once you're in there is only one way out of Pandora's box."
"Which is?" Bella ask anxiously.
"We must retrieve Hade's chariot and use it to find the portal out."
"Hade's chariot?"
"Yes huntress, it is the only way out of here. Hade's keeps his chariot guarded as well. Quite an adventure ahead of us I'm afraid. Do tell me Bella how do you feel about dogs?"
She shrugs.
"I happen to like dogs."
He grins.
"What about three headed ones with massive teeth, and foul breath?"
"YOU MEAN CERBERUS?!"
"You are quite enchanting aren't you? You seem to have paid much attention to the stories. However Cerberus is a simple recreation. You can only kill him off temporarily and he eventually comes back there is no true way of death for that beast!"
"So like the hellhounds in a way."
"Hellhounds?"
"They are Lucifer's pets."
"Actually, Bella they are Crowley's." Cass corrects.
"Who?"
"He is the King of Hell, the one that was to be in charge once Lucifer was locked away. It seems as though Samael and Crowley have come up missing."
"That's enough to give you a headache."
Perseus nods in agreement.
"Sounds like just as much drama as we deal with. Perhaps our worlds are not so different after all."
"So what's Crowley like?"
"A only slightly dimmer version of Lucifer. "
"Oh well that sounds wonderful."
"There's nothing wonderful about it, both have proven to be unethical, atrocious, and self-powering. "
"Self-powering?" Bella questions.
"Both are very narcissistic and seem to derive their dynamism from this."
"Oh well that sounds peachy!"
Perseus takes out his sword and twirls it about.
"It will be dark soon. We shall head out. It will take us at least a day to get there. I suppose it is time for you to meet Charon."
"Charon?" Cass inquiries.
"The boatman that will lead us to the area of the palace."
"You're saying I've no choice, but to drag my wife into this demon's world?"
"Unfortunately, yes, but I assure you, I will help to keep her safe. You've my word."
"The very word of the one whom tried to take my wife away from me?"
Perseus smiles.
"It is the only word you have. It is your decision whether to trust it or not. I've no other way to earn your trust nor do I have the time in which to do so. As I've stated already the more time you spend here the more questions you both will raise. You're not dead so soon you will become the hunted. There is much envy for life around these parts. You're soon to draw too much attention. This one especially within time…" He winks upon Bella.
Bella narrows her eyes in wonder.
"Come now follow me let's be haste."
Cass and Bella follow him out of Asphodel. They travel on foot for hours. They no longer walked about lush, green, grass, instead it was dry, cracked, jagged earth beneath them. The atmosphere was colder now. Bella ran her hands about her arms for warmth of some sort. It seemed the further they went the colder it grew. Cass puts his arm around Bella as they continue on. Both had chills scattered about their body from the remote weather.
Perseus turns back to them as they are at the shore of the lake.
"Ah, yes I seem to forget you're human. Perhaps we should move even faster?"
Perseus takes something out from his pouch. It looked to be a flute of some sort. He blew into it yet, they heard nothing. He crouches down.
"He will arrive shortly. It would be wise not to touch the water and under any circumstances do not fall in. Particularly, near any of the rivers."
Bella took in a deep breath as she saw the boat coming towards them.
"Can we all fit in that?" She looked upon the small wooden boat and back to the guys.
"Yes, we just have to make sure we don't tip over, that's all."
Bella rolls her eyes.
"Sure sounds easy enough."
They turn to the cloaked creature. What little they could see of him was covered in hair revealing a hint grayish green skin. Bella could make out a goatee that flared down the creatures cloak the hairs ash like. The creature's fingers were long so was its nails and they were sharp at the tips they gripped around the oar as he came to a stop.
"Charon…" Perseus says in greeting.
The creature nods looking Bella and Cass up and down.
"We need to pass to the lands of Hade, Charon."
He shakes his head looking upon the humans.
"There is still life within them and they are merely human, therefore, they cannot pass."
"Ah, come on old friend I'm sure we can come to some sort of agreement."
"There are rules Perseus."
"Pfft… rules… who needs em."
He goes to help Bella on the boat. Charon puts his oar to his chest.
"Perseus…" He says in a hesitant warning voice.
"I say you've a mind of your own. Haven't you been running these waters for centuries? Come on let me and my friends pass for old time sake."
"You may pass they may not."
"Charon."
Cass pulls Bella back behind him as Charon begins to swing his oar around.
"Oh I see how it is? I take it it's been sometime since you've had a good brawl."
Perseus smiles and looks upon Cass and Bella.
"Do excuse us…"
Charon and Perseus step off to the side and Bella gasp out as Charon takes his oar upon Perseus's sternum. He slams him into the ground. Perseus arches back off the ground and grins as he charges after him. Cass looked onto them confused.
"They fight as though they seek joy in it." He says to Bella..
"Um Cass I think they do."
"Very strange custom."
Bella softly giggles.
"How did you fight in Heaven Cass?"
He narrows his eyes and gazes upon her.
"With honor, pride and conviction."
She smiles and reaches up kissing his lips.
"Of course you did."
He nods wrapping his arms around her. She takes a moment to lean into his chest. He kisses her head as he watches Charon and Perseus spar. Cass sees Charon send Perseus through a bolder. He starts to intervene thinking he may need help, but Perseus laughs and dust himself off.
"You still got it old friend."
Charon nods and looks towards them. Perseus puts a hand upon his shoulder as he looks back to Cass and Bella.
"I wouldn't ask if it wasn't important. I need their help. It's about the Princess."
Charon shakes his head continuing to eye the humans.
"I promise our lips are sealed no one will ever know."
Charon sighs and goes back to the boat. Perseus grins and waves them over. Cass takes Bella's hand as they make their way back over. Perseus helps Cass get Bella on the boat. He carefully sits her down.
"Don't move." He then helps Cass aboard.
"If we all stay perfectly still, we should be fine." Perseus says with a shrug.
A couple hours have passed and Cass looks to Bella startled as she's fallen asleep. She starts to tilt her body a bit.
"Bella…" He says trying to stir her awake.
Charon and Perseus look over as well.
"Don't let her…" Perseus warns looking to the sky, it was dark and overcast. Lightening begin to shoot across the sky.
"If either of you fall in the River Styx you DIE!" Cass's eyes widen at this and he reaches over adjusting Bella back up.
"BELLA!"
She opens her eyes jumping a bit.
"Don't move." He warns.
"We're definitely getting closer."
Bella stays frozen as they come to the shoreline.
"Wait for me." Perseus calls out carefully around them to get out.
Cass hands Bella off first. Then Perseus helps Cass out of the boat.
"Never ever touch the water in the Styx, unless you have a death wish."
Perseus looks around the back to Bella.
"Anything look familiar yet?"
She narrows her eyes as she looks around.
"Not yet, sorry."
He nods.
"Then we keep going, but stay close. We don't want to get on Hade's territory just yet. Let's stay on the outskirts."
They begin to follow Perseus, however he comes to a stop. He turns to Bella.
"I almost forgot" He takes something from his war kilt.
"I believe these are yours. They may come in handy." He hands her gun and blade back.
She grins and runs her fingers along the initial engravings.
"Wait… there should have been something else."
He cocks a brow.
"What?"
"A small black car."
"You mean that childish toy?"
She takes in a breath.
"Perseus you had better tell me you have it."
He shrugs and starts to walk again.
"PERSEUS!" She demands and he stops in his tracks.
"I'm going to need that back!"
"Why would you need such a foolish…"
"Perseus, if I were you I'd give her back the item. It is highly sentimental to her."
He laughs at Cass's words.
"It's a child's play thing. What use could she possibly have…"
Cass grits his teeth and grabs hold of Perseus by the shoulders.
"If you have this… YOU WILL GIVE IT BACK!"
Perseus sighs and turns back to Bella.
"What could it possibly mean to you? Such a doleful thing really."
"It belongs to me! My brother gave me that when we were just children."
He beams at this.
"The hunter your husband so praised?!"
"Yes…"
Perseus nods and opens his pouch.
"It is yours then. I do apologize I hadn't a clue."
Cass takes it from his hand and hands it over to Bella. Bella looks to Perseus oddly.
"Why were you going to keep it?"
He shrugs.
"Just a small token in which to remember you by, that was all."
Cass rolls his eyes at this and for the first time ever. Dick… rolls through that mind of his as he looks upon Perseus.
"Dick…" He utters along as the thought hits.
Bella's jaw drops and Perseus rears back bewildered.
"Cass baby did you just say…"
Cass nods and starts walking again. She looks upon Perseus.
"Wow, he must really hate you."
Perseus clears his throat.
"I knew you had a foul mouth, but never did I…"
She pats Perseus on the back.
"Yep, way to go ya Dick!"
Bella continues to giggle off and on. She'd never heard Cass talk that way.
A few moments have passed as they continue on.
"Cass?"
He turns to see Perseus bracing Bella against him. Bella hands are folded into fists. Her teeth grind together and her back is arched as if in pain. Cass quickly makes his way over.
"Bella?"
"It's her." She growls.
"Something happened right here."
Perseus looks around.
Bella comes down to her hands and knees and starts to crawl about the area.
"She was wounded and trying to get away."
"From who?"
Both follow as she continues about the ground. Bella screams out and rolls onto her back. She covers her face as if something was coming after her.
"What is it Bella?!" Cass demands desperately wanting to help.
"They're trying to take my eyes! Make them stop!" She shrieks out and rolls over on her stomach.
She jolts a good inch of the ground and falls back down.
"Is this you or Andromeda?" Perseus questions.
Bella covers her head getting into a fetal position. Cass promptly crouches down pulling her into his chest.
"What were you seeing?"
"Birds… only they weren't. They had feathers like a bird, but their faces were hideous almost like a monstrous looking woman."
"Harpies…" Perseus says with exasperation.
"It must have been her memory. She must've been attacked."
Bella takes in a breath.
"They were clawing at me. They kept trying to take my eyes."
She looks around again as Cass keeps hold of her.
"There's this cloaked person following me. She was frightened." She says looking to Perseus.
Perseus pinches the bridge of his nose.
"Dromeda…"
Bella runs her fingers about the ground. She couldn't walk. She was in too much pain. Crawled… She crawled the rest of the way on her hands and knees. Bella gently breaks from Cass's hold.
"I'm ok now."
He nods and comes back to his feet. Bella continues on Perseus watches curiously as she pats her hands about the ground as if searching for something.
"BELLA!" Both men yell as the ground beneath her gives out and she falls through.
Cass draws his blade and makes his way to the hole that now formed amongst the ground
"Bella?!" He calls out.
Cass shakes his head and goes to jump in after her.
"I wouldn't do that…"
Cass ignores him and dives in after Bella.
"Hmm…" Perseus groans, but with a slight grin.
He sighs and dives in after Cass.
"Bella?" Cass calls as he comes down with a tuck and roll.
Perseus follows coming down in a crouching stance. The both of them look around to see some sort of small underground prison.
"Bella?" Cass calls out again in a softer voice as the last blurt out echoed.
The both of them look to one another as they hear something down the way. The entire area was white rock, the only light about the place was the lit torches about the halls that hung about the walls. Perseus finds himself taken back by the sight. Cass's wife had a cloaked figure slammed against the wall with her knife to its throat.
"Where is she!" She commanded.
"How did you get out?!" The woman like voice replied.
Bella looked upon the figure in her grasp bewildered.
"WHO ARE YOU!" She bellows digger her blade deeper within their throat.
Perseus nods and pats Cass on the back. Perseus's attention goes to something else, something in one of the cell's not far from them. Bella lowers their hood.
Bella tilts her head upon the sight. The sight before her looked as though an elder woman. What had Bella puzzled was she looked like Cassiopeia, Andromeda's mother, but she knew that to be impossible? She was known for her youth, her beauty, she was a Queen known for such things. This woman had the same long chestnut locks of beautiful hair. Her face however, had aged significantly. Her teeth decayed and breath of rot. Her eyes looked as though jaundiced.
"HOW DID YOU GET OUT?!" The vile looking woman thunders back.
Perseus narrows his eyes as he continues to come closer to the cell.
"You there… turn and face me." Perseus demands as he encounters the being in the cell.
The red hooded person slowly turns towards him.
Cass jumps into attention as Bella is sent sailing across the hallway. The woman laughs as Cass firmly yanks her back by the collar of her brown shawl. He's her blade about her back as Bella comes back to her feet.
"Dromeda?" Perseus says his breath taken away at the sight.
She simply blinks upon him. No real emotion about her at all.
"Dromeda, please speak love."
She narrows her eyes and comes towards the bars. Her delicate, soft hands wrap around the bars to the cell as she looks upon him.
"It's me… Perseus…" He reaches through the bars and puts his hand upon her cheek.
She was cold to the touch. Not only that, but she was cold period. She wasn't truly reacting to anything. The woman before him simply stared upon him without words or any real reaction.
"Speak… you know me. I'm your husband and you my wife."
Bella makes her way back towards the woman as Cass continues to keep his blade about her back.
"I wouldn't move. My husband's blade is quite deadly."
Bella grabs the woman by the hair.
"You're mommy dearest aren't you? Cassiopeia?"
The woman looks upon her as if honestly confused.
"You're not my daughter…" She says as if in question.
"Um no… therefore, I have no problem letting my husband slide that blade of his into your back."
She yanks her by the roots harder.
"Now answer me are you Cassiopeia?"
Perseus sighs as Andromeda still acts as though fazed by nothing he says or does. He then remembered what Bella said. Yes before him might have been his wife. Yet she wasn't all the same. He nods and reaches into his pouch. He grasps the vial firmly and looks around. He sees Cass and Bella are dealing with the cloaked being ahead. He takes in a breath and reaches into the cell and forces his wife's head closer upon the bars. She tries to struggle, but he is stronger. He forces the vial into her mouth.
"Swallow." He stresses and forces her lips to lap around so there's no leakage.
Cass and Bella drag the woman towards Perseus.
"Release her at once!"
The woman bows over a bit. Cass narrows his eyes as the woman flings out her arms. Both Cass and Bella are sent flying in opposite directions of the prison.
"NO Cassiopeia?!" Perseus growls and takes out his blade.
Andromeda stumbles back as her eyes roll.
"Dromeda!"
Cassiopeia looks upon her daughter then to him.
"What have you done?!" She barks.
"No!"
The three of them watch as Cassiopeia begins to regain her beauty. Her skin becomes soft, vibrant, and youthful again.
"No…" She yells.
Perseus looks to Cassiopeia in surprise. He didn't understand why she'd be upset. She was always so vain about her beauty.
"NOOOOOOOOOOO!" She falls to her knees looking upon her hands.
"Perseus? Mother?" Andromeda says softly as she wraps her hands back around the bars.
Bella makes her way over and crouches down before Cassiopeia. She shakes her head.
"You cursed yourself didn't you? When you had the witch take your daughter's soul you'd not realize it'd backfire. You're damn near on Hade's territory. It seems the toll has been paid. Even you value life over beauty."
"What do you mean?" Perseus inquires.
"She's dying. That's why she never left once she took her own daughter's soul. She couldn't withstand the idea of someone seeing her for her truest self. The witch warned you didn't see. She said it would come at a price, however you chose not to listen. Once your daughter's soul was returned you'd regain your youth as promised. You just forgot to read the fine print didn't you? Careful what you wish for. So now you're dying. Aren't you? The irony… you were jealous of your own daughter and had her soul taken away. Once you did this you were shown for your truest self. Nothing, but a disgusting fiend. That's why even once you had her soul taken you stayed behind guarding her soulless body because you know once they saw you. They'd surely run in terror. You'd lose your loyal subjects now wouldn't you? So you hide like the bitch you truly are!"
Andromeda looks over upon the scene.
"Bella?"
Bella turns towards her and nods, Andromeda smiles. Bella grabs the key from Cassiopeia's dress and tosses it over at Perseus. The four of them watch as Andromeda's mother's body begins to fossilize in the shape of her sitting upon a throne. Then she burst and balls of light shoot about the room. Bella looks to Perseus.
"You didn't even have to use Medusa this time!"
He smiles as he opens his wife's cell.
"Good thing since she's long gone." He utters, but immediately wraps his arms around Andromeda.
Bella beams looking upon Cass as the too embrace one another. Andromeda tears up a little as he holds and kisses upon her. Cass puts his arm around Bella and pulls her close.
Perseus turns back to them.
"We must hurry now."
Cass nods as they begin to lead the women out of the underground prison.
"Stay close." Perseus tells his wife.
She nods taking his hand as Cass finds a way out through another hatch above. They lift the women up first. They then help one another out of the area.
"Cass…"
Both men look up to see the girls being held hostage. Perseus rolls his eyes and Cass grits his teeth. Cass and Bella lock eyes as if reading one another. Bella nods and suddenly flings her entire body to the side. Cass comes soaring over towards the guard and plunges his dagger within him. The golden light is sent about the guard and his body begins to crackle as though it was porcelain. Cass takes his blade back out and comes back to his feet.
Perseus takes on the other guard as he's distracted by what just took place.
"Um Cass baby…"
They both turn to see a slew of Hade's guards coming their way. All very tall bulky looking men however, each with rather monstrous like appearances. Bella takes her gun out.
"We've no choice. If you two are going back home we have to get to that chariot! The only way is through these bastards!"
Cass and Bella nod to one another and prepare. Bella takes in a breath as the first wave of them come about. Her and Cass fight back to back making sure to stay close. Perseus keeps his wife close as well as they make their way through the guards.
He turns with a grin to see Cass and Bella tag team one to the ground. Bella holds the guard down as her husband strikes his blade upon him. Perseus however sends a knife sailing towards them as a guard is directly behind Bella with a sword about to go into her back. Her eyes widen as she catches what just took place. She looks to Perseus and he nods. She nods back in appreciation and goes back to helping Cass. One of the guards grabs Cass by the throat digging his nails into his flesh. Bella comes up behind him and stabs him in the kidney area. Cass chokes back a bit as his hold is released. She goes to check him over, but is yanked back by the waist.
"No!" Cass rushes back to his feet as they take off running with her.
Perseus however, has a good laugh as Bella grits her teeth angrily and flings her head back as hard as she can. She then twirls about in their hold and fires her gun.
"You got your hands full I believe." He says to Cass.
A smile breaks along Cass's face as he passes by to check on her. Bella dust herself off as she comes from the ground. Perseus's eyes widen though as Andromeda forces his hand over with the blade still about it. She dives it into a nearby guard.
"Huh… didn't see that one."
She smiles.
"I know."
He grins.
"Good eye Dromeda."
They take down the last two as they come towards the gates. Perseus takes his blade prying the gates open.
"This way…" He says and takes off running.
They keep up the pace and follow him towards a cellar next to the castle.
"Ladies…" Perseus says and opens the cellar door.
Bella and Andromeda look to him confused.
"Inside, it's safer for you both here. We will return to you shortly."
"No that was not the agreement!" Bella demands looking upon her husband.
"I made a promise to your husband and I'm keeping it. I vowed to keep you safe. What we're about to face neither of you have any business coming even approximately close."
"You mean Cerberus?" He nods and helps his wife inside the cellar.
"You next."
"NO! I will stand and fight beside my husband!"
"Not this time Bella." Cass sterns and motions towards the cellar.
"CASS!"
"Bella I will not argue with you on this. Join Andromeda and we will return."
"NO! You're not doing this! Together Cass!"
Perseus looks to Cass and whispers.
"Trust me… you do not want her fighting alongside of us. In fact from here on Bella needs to take care of herself."
Cass narrows his eyes at this. He looks upon Bella once more.
"I will return I promise Bella."
Perseus nods and forces Bella inside as he shuts them inside the cellar locking them in.
"DAMMIT!" Bella yells and begins to pace around.
Andromeda looks to see barrels of wine about the massive cellar.
Cass and Perseus nod towards one another. Perseus takes off and Cass follows.
"You should relax." Andromeda suggests as Bella continues to pace bitterly.
"I'm going to kill my husband."
Andromeda laughs.
"OH I've said that a few times myself."
Bella grins a bit shaking her head. She finally sighs in defeat and sits down beside Andromeda as they lean back against shelves of barreled wine.
Cass and Perseus stand before the walls to the side of the palace. Perseus holds out his hand.
"Who knows what will happen from here. Things are about to move pretty quick from here. In case this is goodbye my friend." Cass nods and shakes his hand.
"It's been interesting." Perseus says with a grin.
From there they sneak into the palace. Cass follows Perseus towards a flight of stairs and into one of the chambers. Perseus looks around the room. Cass wondered what they were doing in this room, until Perseus moved a candle about the mantle of the fireplace. The wall began to spin around and Perseus grabs Cass by the collar yanking him inside.
Cass looks down the dark hallway as Perseus grabs one of the lanterns from the wall. He puts his finger to his lips and motions for Cass to follow. Quietly, they make their way down. The area continues to wind the further down they go. Perseus comes to a stop. He points a certain direction and Cass peers over. He sees a black mass upon the floor. He hears the sound of snoring.
Perseus begins to tip toe towards the mass. The closer they come the more Cass begins to realize this is the three headed dog Bella and he were talking about. Cerberus… Sure enough was the black and gold chariot. A black horse with mane of fire connected to it. The horse let out a whimpering sound and shook it's head the closer they came. Both Cass and Perseus froze and looked back to Cerberus. Sure enough it now stood upon it's hind legs. Fog came from his nostrils as he breathed directly over Cass.
"MOVE!"
Cass jolted at Perseus's warning and sure enough he barely missed it's snapping jaws. Perseus unsheathed his sword pitching after the colossal brute. Cass continued to dodge it's barking bites. Both men fight for the upper hand as they continue to dodge and swing their blades about the creature. Perseus shakes his head with annoyance.
"We've to do something and quick before Hades decides to make an appearance, trust me we cannot take him on! Not with that helm about his head!"
Perseus looks to Cass's blade then back to the beast.
"How do you feel about flying?" He questions Cass.
Cass narrows his eyes and before much warning Perseus picks Cass up.
"This might hurt." He warns and literally throws him at the beast.
Cass gathers what he's trying to accomplish and he immediately straightens his body out in midflight and flings his arm back with great force. His dagger piercing through it's skull. It's affect taking a bit longer as it jars it's heads about barking and snapping. Growls escape as it continues to try and shake Cass off him. Perseus makes his way climbing about Cerberus. He uses locks of his black fur to latch on and continue about. The beast cries out occasionally shaking even harder as Perseus uses his sword to continue his way up. Cass rips his blade back out seeing it's affect isn't working fast enough.
He grips a lock of fur and uses it to drop down upon his jugular. Cass barely misses a sharp canine crushing down on him as the animal bites long it's fur trying to get to Cass. He rapidly jams his blade about the creature's throat and twist the blade. It whimpers out again and stumbles.
"TAKE MY HAND!" Cass turns as the chariot is now over his head and Perseus is reaching for his hand.
"Let's go he's coming!"
He nods and grasp his hand firmly as Perseus lifts him up. Perseus grits his teeth as he sends the straps flying against the horse and he calls out.
"Heeyaah!'
The horse takes off.
They manage to get Bella and Andromeda aboard as well. They all turn to hear someone hollering.
"HADES!" Perseus yells and frantically hits the straps against the horse again.
"GIVE ME BACK MY…" Perseus gives Hades a nod and speeds off.
He hands the reins over to Cass.
"Straight ahead, don't stop for nothing no matter what." Cass looks to Perseus confused as he grabs his wife and they are about to leap off the Chariot.
"What are you doing?!" Bella hisses grabbing Perseus's arm.
"We're going back to the Isle. You two are heading back home." He leans over and he kisses her hand.
"It was a pleasure huntress. You take care of your family now."
"Why aren't you coming back?"
"This is our world now. I believe my father was the one that actually cast us away and for a good reason. Perhaps, that is why no one has seen or heard from him. I'm sure I'm soon to find out. I've not given up hopes to hear from Zeus again. All the more reason I feel my wife and I should stay. I thank you for your bravery and kindness Bella."
Andromeda hugs her.
"Until we meet again." She says as Perseus takes her hand and they leap off.
"Um Dean?"
Dean narrows his eyes upon the box.
"Is it supposed to do that?"
"Hell if I know."
Jo picks up the box as it glows with the golden tint casting about it. Jo thinks about some of the things Bella said. She then thinks about what they saw in that field. She quickly tosses Dean his jacket.
"Where are we going."
"To find that cross! I think they're trying to come home! I think we need to be at that cross!"
Dean looks to her confused, but doesn't argue. By now he just wanted them back it didn't matter how. They'd been gone for almost a week now. Once they hop into the Impala, he floors it to the area Bella discovered. After they get there and make their way over he looks to Jo.
"So now what?"
She looks around in thought.
"Let's try placing it in the middle, see what happens."
He shrugs and takes the box from her hand. He places it down and steps back. They both wait, but nothing happens.
"Huh…"
"Yeah huh is right."
"Think we should open it?"
Dean sighs.
"And what if we gets sucked in as well?"
Jo presses her lips together. Dean grows more irritate as the box continues to glow, but nothing else is happening.
"Fine!" He grumbles and goes to open the lid.
When he and Jo are pushed back by the impact. The ground beneath them shifts and the lid to the box flies open.
"HOLY FUCKING SHIT!" Dean yells on top of his lungs as the black chariot with the horse appears.
Bella and Cass come tumbling down and the horse vanishes and the lid returns to sealing shut.
Jo and Dean rush over and help Bella and Cass to their feet.
"What the hell was that?" Dean questions Bella.
"Hades Chariot." She says with a shrug.
"What the hell are the both of you wearing?!"