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Prince Charming Diaries vol. 3
Diary of a Somber Prince
Whiteout, 1, Year of the Screaming Turtle
My Dear Orpheus,
It happened. Something I had stopped carrying about since I found out about your death. I was seated on my throne. Persephone was leaning on the back of my throne reporting about Euridice's condition.
“I think she will be happier if you just take her memories, Hades.” she said. I shook my head.
“I did it twice already.” I said, “I cannot do it again.”
“If you had a chance to make someone happier, wouldn't you do it?” she demanded.
“I never have.” I retorted.
Charon and Prometheus came running onto the platform, interrupting the conversation. I had never see Charon run. I sat up in surprise.
“Where is the flood?” I asked dryly.
“A messenger from Olympus.” Charon gasped, “A winged messenger.”
“Do they have a Spinx?” I sneered, “We have the only one.”
“Not a Spinx, a boy.” Prometheus said quietly.
“Don't just explain, bring him here!” I growled. I snatched up my staff and straightened up. So Zeus was finally sending a messenger. I had never paid him tribute since entering the Underworld. Perhaps he was demanding money, now.
To my horror it was Hermes. My younger brother glided through the air. The wings on his cap and laced sandals, were gently fluttering. My people started gathering around, looking at Hermes with unfriendly eyes. How was I to explain my kinship to the messenger. Most of my people did not even realize that Zeus was my brother.
“Messenger of Olympus, what brings you here?” I demanded, “Your presence is unwelcome here.” Hermes landed gently, then tossed his scarlet cloak over his shoulder.
“Hades, you could at least great me.” Hermes retorted, “It has been four years since you saw me.”
“Lets make it four more years.” I snarled, “What do you want? Make it quick, than get out of my sight.” Hermes' cheeks turned as scarlet as his cloak.
“You are a hateful person!” he shouted, “Maybe you could bully me when I was ten, but I am fourteen now, almost a man!”
“Is that what you came to tell me?” I taunted, “What a useless thing to tell me.” Snickers filled the air. I had gained a point with my people.
Hermes straightened up, possibly in the attempt to make himself taller. But he was still really short for one of the Star People.
“I have been sent by Zeus, Lord of Olympus and High King of Sea World.” he said, “By rights over your person, whether you acknowledge it or not, he has ordered you to restore the Nymph Persephone to her mother immediately. I am to escort her back to Mount Olympus. If you resist, you will be ousted out of Sea World, banished to the Unknown Waters never to return.” Hermes bowed grandly and clicked his heels. I stood up and drew my sword.
“I am to go home to mother?” Persephone gasped, almost as if she could not believe her ears, “Leave this black pit for all eternity?”
“Over my dead body!” I snarled, “Down here in the pits, I am lord, not Zeus. Go back to your precious mountain and tell him that!” Hermes took a step backwards, a startled look on his face. Than he took a step forward, his face flushing.
“Hades, I have the right to arrest you!” he shouted, “I can bring you back to Olympus for a trial.”
“Oh can you?” I hissed, and raised my staff in one hand and my sword in the other.
Persephone darted between us. I froze. Of course she was going to leave me forever. It was not fair. Why should she believe Zeus' words?
“Will you take me back to my mother?” she cried.
“I would.” Hermes said loftily, with a stupid attempt to pretend he was older than fourteen years. “But I must take Hades back. He has resisted the direct orders of Zeus, my brother. I would not mind bossing him around for once.”
“Do you really think I will let you arrest me?” I roared, yanking Persephone out from between us, “Or take my wife for that matter.”
“I did not know she was your wife.” Hermes said doubtfully, “I thought she was your prisoner.”
“Simple misunderstanding.” I muttered through clenched teeth, “Now trot off and tell Zeus that.”
For a few seconds I thought Hermes really was going to do what I suggested. I immediately despised him as a fool. Than Hermes slapped the ground with his pronged staff.
“No!” he shouted, “I have been ordered to bring the Lady Persephone back to Olympus, and by the bright Stars above, I swear I will. You have no authority to stop me!”
“I have an army and you are alone!” I shouted, “Are you so naive and foolish that you really think I will let you take her?”
“Zeus told me that he will overturn the Underworld in Fire if you do not send the Nymph.” Hermes said crossly, “He is going to bring the Thunderer here and destroy you!” I winced, feeling a little week. Zeus' sword could shoot bolts of lightening. If he wanted to destroy the Underworld with it, I believed he could.
“Fine!” I roared, “Take her. But get out of here. Make it quick! I never want to see either of you again. Do you hear me?” I stood up and stormed off. I did not look at Persephone, I could not bare it. Why did she have to go? I heard Prometheus shouting after me, but I refused to answer him.
Hades
Whiteout, 2, Year of the Screaming Turtle
My Dear Orpheus,
Today Persephone departs with Hermes. I do not know what entertainment was given my brother, nor did I care. Yet, I emerged from my seclusion to watch the red haired Nymph leave with my brother. I wondered if it would feel as bad as when I found that you were dead. Surely not. She was nothing to me. The only reason I had married her was to spite Zeus. I wouldn't care if I never saw her forever.
The pebbly shores of the Styx were lined with the strange silent Underworlders. Even the Furies were there. Tears glinted in their eyes. Few things brought tears to the eyes of furies. But in that short time, Persephone had endeared herself to everyone except me. Prometheus embraced her. There red hair mingled for a moment, than she pulled away. There was a beautiful smile on her face. She ran from one person to another saying goodbye and kissing them. I hid behind the hulking shape of one of my monsters. I wanted her to say goodbye to me, yet at the same time I did not want her to see me.
“I see your special lord is not seeing his queen off.” Hermes said, his voice full of contempt. I flushed, and snuck away. I would not let him see me. I returned to my chamber and lay down. I would soon forget the dancing red haired nymph. Unfortunately every time I closed my eyes, all I could see was her face surrounded by her flowing red hair.
I pulled my pillow over my head and groaned. I wanted to get up and run out and see her. But she was gone. I would never see her again.
“Why does it hurt?” I yelled, as I hurled my pillow across the room. I now understood why Euridice had hated me for taking Orpheus away from her. Now that she was dead, why was she not trying to murder me. Of if only I could be murdered. I buried my face in the sheets of my bed and cried. I had not cried so much since I had sat by the gravestone made for Zeus. Of course he had not really needed it since he was alive after all.
Hades
Whiteout, 3, Year of the Screaming Turtle
My Dear Orpheus,
I stumbled out of my chamber, feeling wild and full of despair. There was no chance that Persephone would ever return, even if she wanted to too. She must hate me. I hated myself. I dragged myself towards Lethe. I had drunk the water before and never completely lost my memory. But if I cast myself into the water I could not help but forget everything and everyone.
“Hades?” someone shouted, than Prometheus grasped me by the shoulders. I struggled in vain, than cursed him.
“Away with you, you thrice cursed son of a pig!” I shouted, “Dare to lay hands on me. I will turn the blood in your veins to fire.”
“Hades, what are you doing?” he shouted back, apparently not heeding my words.
“I will bathe in Lethe!” I shouted, “I will forget everything.”
“No!” Prometheus cried, “Think again.”
“I have thought!” I cried, “Let me alone.”
“Someone help!” Prometheus bellowed, “I need help!”
The little gardener, who tended the fruit trees approached us. He laid one hand on my arm and held up a pomegranate.
“Master calm yourself.” he said with a twisted smile, “You need not forget the little nymph. She will return.”
“She will never come back!” I shouted, “Now leave me be.”
“She has eaten the fruit of the dead, o' lord.” the gardener whispered, “A few seeds is all she needed.” I stopped struggling. Prometheus nearly toppled over. What was the point of throwing a fit. Not only would I see Persephone again, but she would have to stay with me forever. I smiled, than straightened my cloak.
“What are you two lolling about for?” I demanded, “We have work to do.” I turned and walked away with as much dignity as I could muster.
Whiteout, 20, Year of the Screaming Turtle
My Dear Orpheus,
It did take more time than I was originally thinking, but Hermes finally returned. It was rather galling to discover that he was alone.
“Decided that the Underworld was a finer place than the Overworld?” I jeered, as Charon led him to me.
“Do you think I would ever want to stay in this cold black pit of despair?” Hermes cried, “Never! Not when I can fly in the blue sky and watch the animals and Mythicals dance on the shores of the Unknown Sea and the Slopes of the mountains! Never!”
“Than what could have brought you back?” I asked in a mocking voice, “Perhaps Persephone decided that she could not live without me.” Hermes' face grew a little pale at my words. I wondered if, fool though he was, he had perhaps penetrated the true meaning in my words.
“I have been sent to summon you to the counsel of Olympus.” Hermes said softly, “You await the charges of murder.” I raised my eyebrows. An image of you entered my mind. I had never actually been responsible for a murder or participated in one. Sure, I threatened to do unspeakable damage to lots of people, but I had never actually done any such thing. Your murder was the only one I had some part in. By banishing you, I had brought wrath down on myself. Was I being accused of your murder?
“Murder?” I asked at last, “I have killed thousands with my bare hands. How is it, that only now, I am being charged for my evil deeds?” Hermes turned a little paler.
“The Nymphs have charged you with poisoning one of their kind. Persephone.” he said. I sighed. It was simple really. All they had to do was bring her back and she would be alright.
“I have been summoned.” I said cheerfully, “I better attend this trial immediately. It must be your bad food that is killing the Nymph. I never thought to poison her. Perhaps I should bring my secret viles. I could take out all of Olympus with the bottled breath of the Blood Scorpion.”
“You better not!” Hermes shouted, “Zeus will sentence you to death.” I sighed.
“I already face death for supposedly attempting to murder Persephone, why should anyone care if I am killed for a few other things as well?” I jeered. Than a terrible thought entered my mind, “She is still alive right?” what if I had pushed it to long and Persephone had died?
“She was still breathing, but growing weaker ever day.” Hermes said, “But you better pack the antidote.”
“Prometheus get your things!” I barked, “We leave this very day. The scum of Olympus have summoned me, and I insist you attend.”
“Scum?” Hermes shouted, “If you do not get executed for murdering Persephone and all those other people, I shall charge you with slander!”
“Bosh!” I said rudely, and went off to pack a bag. I was going to see Persephone again.
Hades
Whiteout, 30, year of the Screaming Turtle,
My Dear Orpheus,
Oh Orpheus, why? It took us ten days to reach Olympus. Hermes is not directionally inclined. I could have brought us a much quicker way. But I was feeling sulky again and refused to assist him. He used to be a somewhat tolerable little boy, now he is as rude as they come. He thinks he is so grand, what with his red cape and winged sandals. I would think it would be difficult to balance on winged sandals. It would seem like you would keep tipping over. As for his silly winged hat, I would think it would fly right off his head.
Mount Olympus is the largest mountain in all of Sea World. It towers high above the land. On its summit is a palace of white marble. The many pillared porch is rather impressive, I will admit. Last time I was there it was not quite so impressive. But my spies have been watching it for some time. The guards were all wearing gold chest guards with flashing suns on them. They all had long red capes, short swords, and winged helmets. I thought they looked very silly. But what would I know about? I am only the king of the underworld. The star people were not as silly.
After Hermes had announced us, we were escorted into the palace. We had to wait in a large open chamber. The roof was made of white marble, and there were wooden benches all around the edge of the room. Two doors opened off the chamber. One led to the gates, the other led down into the palace. I twiddled my thumbs and wondered how Persephone was doing. She did not really have much time left, before she had to return to the Underworld or die.
Presently, a servant in long robes came. He barely glanced at me, but bowed low before Hermes. I refused to acknowledge him either. But from the the startled look on Hermes' face, I guess that the rotten scumbag was trying to insult me and gain the applause of his peers. Well, I was not going to give him the satisfaction of losing my temper.
“Stop acting like a fool, Twiger.” Hermes told the servant, “We are here to see Zeus.” Twiger bowed again.
“Ah, your lordship, you are expected. But who is your companion?” he asked. I scowled. He was beginning to irritate me. Of course, he knew who I was.
“This is Hades, my brother.” Hermes said, “Zeus has sent for him.”
“This is highly irregular.” Twiger hissed, while rubbing his hands, and bowing, “I was never informed of such a matter. We must arrange an appointment for next week.” I gritted my teeth in exasperation.
“Out of the way creeping, crawling maggot!” Hermes shouted, in as deep a voice as a fourteen year old, could muster, “Or I will have you inprisoned.” he leaped lightly into the air and flew over the servant's head. The roof was still a good three feet higher than my hand. Feeling rather impressed with my brother's actions, I followed on foot. I could hear Twiger muttering behind me. But I did not care. He was a little trouble maker who was not worth all the trouble, he was making.
Hermes led me down a long wide corridor. Fine lamps were carved on the wall and lit, spreading large glows on the walls. In four years, Zeus had made Olympus the finest palace I had ever laid eyes on. But I had done nothing in the Underworld Palace. I shrugged away the feeling. That did not mean I thought he was better than me. He was not.
We reached a huge double door, carved with the heads of fierce beasts, and painted bright red. Two guards stood on either side of the door. They crossed their spears.
“Name your business!” one of them barked.
“We are here to council with the Lords of Olympus.” Hermes retorted, “You know that full well, idiot!” I was quite proud of my brother. He did not suffer fools. Zeus had not ruined him. I shrugged. Actually, I had no idea what Hermes was like. As my second youngest brother, he was far to young for me to ever have actually known him.
“We have orders to allow you and the Underworld scum in, but not him.” the second guard said, with a nod at Prometheus.
“Who are you calling scum?” I demanded, “I could lay waste to you and all your people in a blink of an eye, so watch your tongue.”
“Calm down, Hades.” Prometheus whispered, “I will be alright. I do not mind waiting here.” I did mind him waiting there. If anything, he would have my back. But one look at the guards angry faces, I decided not to push my luck any further.
The guards pulled their spears aside, while muttering angry words. Hermes kicked the door open, and flew in. I hesitated in the doorway. There was a platform at one end of the room. Two thrones were seated in the center of it. Zeus sat on one, and his Queen, Hera of the Titans, was seated next to him. On either side of the thrones were smaller carved chairs. My sister Hestia sat on one. There were a few other people I thought, looked vaguely familiar. At the foot of the platform was about twenty or forty common people, arguing and shouting. On the opposite end of the room from the platform, was a stadium. Rising marble benches. They were full of people. On the wall opposite the door was a small balcony. Seated on it, were Persephone and her mother. Both of them were focused on my brother and the shouting crowd. Persephone looked much paler than I last remembered. She was father along than I thought she would be. I wondered if there was even enough time to get her back to the Underworld. If not, there was only one alternative.
“My lord Zeus, a moment of your time.” one of the commoners was saying respectfully, but he was interrupted by a large woman with a basket.
“Fish!” she screamed, “Nereus refuses to allow us to fish in his waters. He thinks they belong to him. As if he did not know that all Sea World is under your rule and not his. Do something about it.”
“He taxes us for the use of his waters!” someone else shouted.
“If we have to pay to fish, how are we to live?”
“You have to allow us to fish free.”
“I says we have to fish in the Unknown waters.”
“The fish there are tough and no good.”
“Brothers, country men.” Zeus cried, as he stood up, “Your complaints are duly noted. But remember, if you had a plot of land and someone wanted to hunt on it, would you not make them pay a bit for the use?”
“That is not the same thing.” someone protested.
“Actually it is.” Hestia said gently. But her voice was drowned out. Zeus sat down and leaned his ear towards the old woman seated at his side. She whispered something to him, than glanced at me. I froze. It was Delphi the Oracle. Hastily, I looked away, before she realized that I had seen her. Doubtless, she was invisible to everyone by Zeus.
Hermes prodded me towards some marble steps, leading up into the stadium. We took the two last front row seats. No one seemed to notice me. From my view, I could see the Thunderer. There was a special attachment to Zeus' throne. I could see lightening sparks issuing from the blade.
“Lets have one person speak at a time.” Zeus told the fishermen. My gaze wandered again.
Standing right below me, was a woman in a long green dress. Her hair was covered by a long shawl, which fell nearly to her feet in the back. As the fishermen argued over, who was to speak first, the woman began to edge around the crowd, in a loop towards the thrones. She wore no apron and her dress was tied with thongs in the front. Long flowing sleeves fell to the floor. But it was the face I was staring at. I had seen it twice before. At first I could not believe my eyes, but my suspicions were confirmed by the decided limp. This was Hippolyta, the Amazon Worrioress. The limp was from the knife I had struck her with when I was no more than five summers.
Suddenly Hera stood up and screamed for silence. The room became perfectly silent. I nearly took my attention of the Amazon, but I was not so easily ruled by a commanding voices. Hippolyta, slid her left hand into her right sleeve. She could be hiding any number of weapons in her sleeves and under her robes. Doubtless she was here to assassinate Zeus. Finally I would have my revenge. A sour feeling twisted my stomach. I gripped the rail between me and the floor. All it would take was one slice and my enemy would be dead. In the commotion, Hippolyta would would escape. Did I care if she escaped as long as Zeus was dead. But now that it came to that, did I really want Zeus dead. Maybe my problem was, that I wanted to kill him myself. I pondered the many hours I had spent, seated beside his honorary tomb. I had imagined what my big brother was like, and had imaginary conversations with him. But why did I hate him so much, when he turned out to be exactly word for word how I imagined him to be?
“If you all do not shut up and listen to what the Lord Zeus has to say to you, I will advise him to destroy you all with the Thunderer!” Hera roared. The crowd cringed. I nearly smiled, but caught myself in time. Instead, I forced myself to concentrate on Hippolyta. She had taken advantage of the situation and reached the front of the room, now she was moving in on the throne. She was going to kill Zeus. What could I do? Nothing. If I tried to warn him, no one would believe me. I was not very well liked by anyone. They all thought I was a murderer, kidnapper and a worse.
Hippolyta started to slide her knife out. I leaped onto the rail, with a loud yell. Immediately everyone turned and stared at me. Jaws dropped. Hermes grabbed at my foot. I kicked him away. But now I felt like an idiot.
“Hades?” Zeus cried, half standing. Hippolyta had turned also. I saw the look of surprise, than pure hate in her face. She took a step in my direction. She probably had orders to kill Zeus, but seeing me could possibly make her forget her oath.
“Zeus!” I roared, “Do you mean to say that you have summoned me, many leagues to wait while you speak with fishermen?” I felt like a fool. But Hippolyta was halfway across the room again. Perhaps Zeus was safe after all. But of course, he would not appreciate my efforts to keep him alive.
“How dare you speak to my husband, that way.” Hera screamed, she reached for the sword at her belt. Zeus laid one hand on her arm.
“Peace Hera.” he said quietly, than he looked at me, through narrowed eyes, “Brother, the world must go on, whether you are here or not. I did not see you arrive.”
“But you have seen me now, so remove these- these scum and speak to my estimable person!” I roared. Even I was a little embarrassed over this tirade.
“Hades, I will do no such thing!” Zeus snapped, “You can wait your turn, same as everyone else.”
I noticed a second woman shaking her head at Hippolyta. The Amazon turned and started back towards Zeus.
“Sinking rat bones!” I yelled in dismay.
“I beg your pardon?” Zeus gasped, “What is that supposed to mean.”
“That I utterly despise you.” I shouted idiotically. In truth I was rather at a loss for words. There was at least one more Amazon in the room besides Hippolyta. I shuddered. The room was probably crawling with them.
“You cannot even save your insults for a more private moment.” Zeus cried, his cheeks were scarlet.
“If you had just let me kill him, when I wanted too, this would not be a problem.” Hera shouted at him. By this time, Hippolyta could have danced on her head and juggled a thousand swords and no one would have noticed. I had not succeeded in drawing her away from Zeus, but had given her the perfect distraction. It was all rather disheartening.
I flung myself off the balcony, somersaulting in midair and landing in a crouch, only inches from Hippolyta, and directly in front of Zeus. He stood up. I turned and punched the Amazon in the face. Enraged yells filled the room. Zeus drew the Thunderer.
“Shame!” I cried, “No one strikes a lady, in my palace. It is cowardly and disrespectful. I looked down at the sprawling Hippolyta. I felt great satisfaction. I did not care about Zeus' customs or manners. Besides, the Amazon was not a lady. She was a monster.
Hippolyta leaped into the air and came up standing. Her face was flaming. Her veil had fallen off, reviling her shimmering golden hair.
“Hades!” she screamed, “I have had enough your constant interfering! This time I shall kill thee, once and for all!” She leaped at me, her knife flashing. I bent over backwards, and the blow passed harmlessly, overhead. Immediately, I straightened up, and gave her a hard push. She went reeling backwards. But she regained her balance, even quicker than I had.
“Dog!” Hippolyta screamed, and tore off her robe, relieving her white tunic and golden armor. The standard short sword of the Amazons hung at her belt. She whipped out the sword and leaped at me. I twisted to the side. Than the room was swarming with Amazons. I caught hold of the rail and leaped up to the stadium.
“Hades!” someone screamed, it sounded like Persephone, but I was to busy to look.
“Clear the audience!” Zeus roared. There was a crash of thunder, followed by a blinding flash. Startled, I lost my balance and tumbled back down to the floor. Pain shot through my legs and back. Hippolyta caught me by the throat, I writhed under her grip, She plunged her sword into me. She was aiming at my heart, but I pulled away in time. The blade bit through my shoulder bone. I screamed in agony. The sword was jerked out. The next blow would surely kill me. As it was, I was already seeing spots. I fumbled in my belt, with my good hand, pulled out the little woolen cloth cap and clapped it on my head. I felt horribly visible, but judging by Hippolyta's scream, the cap had done its work.
“Retreat!” one of the Amazons shouted. The room seemed to be swarming with running women. They streamed off in all directions, completely crushing the astonished guards.
“I will get you for this, Hades!” Hippolyta screamed.
“Not if I do not get your first!” I yelled. Than the Amazons were gone. I sagged against the side of the stadium and groaned softly. Blood was spewing out of my shoulder.
Prometheus burst into the room, looking rather wild. One of the guards was right behind him. Doubtless, the other one was pursuing the Amazons.
“Hades?” Prometheus shouted. I yanked the cap off my head. He made a rush at me. But Zeus reached me first. He hauled me, roughly to my feet.
“Hades!” he roared. I groaned. Why did everyone keep having to yell at me. Than Persephone cried out and and tumbled off her balcony. Her face was ash white. If I died, she would die too.
Everyone was screaming and hollering. I tried to squirm free of my brother's grip, but it was to tight and I was to weak.
“Amazons.” I croaked. Zeus dropped me.
“Amazons are myths.” I snapped. I struggled to my feet and took a few halting steps towards Persephone. But Demeter leaped off the balcony, landing between me and her daughter.
“Stay away from my daughter, scum!” she screamed.
“Demeter?” Prometheus gasped. Than it struck me.
“No!” I shouted, wheeling around, “You cannot be her husband!” But my red haired companion had already rushed past me and flung his arms around my mother-in-law. I groaned.
Peace was not restored to the chamber, until Zeus struck the floor with the Thunderer. Everyone fell back, before his rage.
“One at a time!” he roared, “No one may speak, until I call on them.” Demeter and Prometheus were lifting Persephone up.
“My daughter is dying.” Demeter cried.
“Silence!” Zeus yelled, than he turned to me. I clapped a hand to my injured shoulder, and glowered at him.
“I did not do anything.” I muttered sullenly.
“Hades, whatever you have done to Persephone, I order you to undo it.” Zeus ordered, “If you refuse to participated, you will be executed as a murderer.”
“I did nothing.” I retorted angrily, “Go ahead and execute me. But you cannot change anything.”
“Hades speaks truth.” Prometheus said quietly, “Persephone ate the food of the dead. If she does not return to the land of shadows, she will die.”
“I warned her.” I said, with a shrug of my shoulders. I immediately regretted my action. The pain was unbearable.
“You mean, my daughter has to go back with you or die?” Demeter gasped, her face growing pale. I nodded, being careful not to shrug this time. “Never!” the woman screamed. I glared at her.
“Than you have no love for her, for she will die!” I snarled.
“Silence!” Zeus roared, “Demeter, if you want your daughter to live, surrender her to my brother.”
“Wait, he is your brother?” Prometheus gaped. I sighed. This was getting so complicated.
“Let me safe you all some time.” I snapped, “Zeus is my brother, we are the sons of Cronus. Zeus is the the first born, the one that you got sentenced for kidnapping. He defeated Cronus. I am married to Persephone, and yes I married her to spite Zeus, end of conversation. See everything is settled.” Zeus' cheeks were as red as fire. Prometheus looked crushed.
“No!” Hera cried, in a shrill voice, “It is not end of the conversation. What were these women? Who was this woman you brutishly attacked.”
“She was an Amazon Warrioress.” I snapped.
“Amazons are not real.” Zeus cried in exasperation.
“Well, it was sure painful for something that is not real.” I retorted. Zeus dropped his face into the palm of his hand. Hera leaped at me.
“You could not tell the truth if your life depended on it, you stinking lying monster!” she roared.
I opened my mouth to respond to this insult, than shut it again. What could I say, they would all think I was lying anyway.
“I believe, I asked you a question.” Zeus said grimly.
“Everyone raise your hand if you believe that Amazons are real.” I said through gritted teeth. There was a short silence, than Hestia raised her hands. I could have kissed her.
“Everyone knows that the Amazons are real.” someone shouted. Several more hands were raised. My heart sank. All those that had raised their hands had something in common. They were my brothers and sisters. Hestia, Poseidon, Hephaestus, Apollo, Amertis and Ares. I supposed Hermes was to young, and my youngest brother was not even in the room.
“Everyone knows about the Amazons, right?” Apollo asked, “I mean, is not the blood curdling scream, of someone shouting their name, a common call to arms?”
“Hades was right, those were Amazon Warrioress.” Hestia said gently, “As much as it pains me to say it, they were here for your blood, Zeus.”
“Has everyone taken leave of their senses?” Hera cried, “You are all backing him up with more lies.”
“Are you calling us liars?” Athena cried, “With no proof or reason? How do you know that the Amazons are not real? We have seen them with our own eyes.”
“Peace, sister.” Zeus said. Than he turned to me.
Whether the argument would have continued, I do not know, for at that very moment, I fainted. I had never fainted before, and it was rather disconcerting. For a terrible second everything went black. When I opened my eyes, I was lying on the floor and everyone was staring down at me. Embarrassing. Prometheus helped me sit up and a physician bandaged my arm. Than Persephone stopped breathing. She was certainly not going to make it back to the Underworld. There was only one thing to do.
I pushed away the people, who were bothering me, and pulled myself up. I refused anyone's help. I stumbled towards the dying Nymph and dropped to my knees beside her. Demeter, drew a knife and threatened me with it. I flung it aside, with my bare hands, ignoring the pain, as my hand made contact with the blade. Demeter's eyes widened. I glowered at her, than I put my right hand over Persephone's heart. It had to work. I could feel a tingling in my fingers. Than the Nymph coughed, I jerked my hand away. Color was returning to her pale cheeks. I was Hades, the Underworld was not only my home now, but it was a part of me. Sobbing, Demeter gathered her daughter up in her arms.
I stood up and faced Zeus. He was staring hard at me. I curved my fingers in the air, and the staff of the Underworld appeared in my hand.
“Zeus, let me warn you.” I said, “Twice in my life, once when Uranus was Star Father and once when Cronus was Star Father, there was an attempt at an alliance with the Amazons. Uranus wanted to use them to conquer the Sea People and the Unknown Waters. Cronus wanted to bring all of Sea World to it's knees before him. Twice, these attempts failed. Both times I swore that I would never have dealings with the Amazons.” I stopped speaking, and leaned on my staff, my shoulder ached.
“What happened?” Zeus asked simply. He sat down on his throne, and laid the Thunderer across his lap. Slowly, everyone else sat down too. All eyes were on me.
“Uranus was to exchange blood for blood to seal the contract. I was five years old when he brought me down to the labyrinth.” I said bitterly, “One of their princess would be exchanged for me.”
“Impossible.” Zeus said, “You were the second born and destined to become the next Star Father.” I laughed.
“That just goes to show how little you or anyone knows about the Star Family.” I said with a sneer, “If any of you had half a brain, you would realize that I am the third born. Hestia is your twin sister, which makes her the second born, and I am only the third born. Your own father was the fifth born.” Gasps ran through the room. Hestia folded her hands on her lap and stared at the floor.
“It is a common misconception that the second born is always the next Star Father.” I said quietly, “The first born is always gotten out of the way, but generally the next Star Father is chosen by- never mind by what. One is selected, but it can change, judging by how evil they offsprings are.” I ignored the gasps, and continued, “Uranus thought to exchange me, because Poseidon had already been selected, to take place after Uranus and Cronus had died.”
“Wait, what?” Poseidon gasped, “Me? But I am not evil! I would never do any of those things!” he shook his green head wildly. I looked away. I had avoided him for years, refusing to have anything to do with him, after the choosing. I was sure he would kill me if he knew.
“Finish the story, never mind who was going to be the Star Father.” Zeus said, “Continue Hades.” I slid one hand to my belt.
“I listened to my grandfather and the Amazon messenger speak, from the shadows.” I continued, “Than, I saw her, Hippolyta, the assassin. She was creeping through the maze, to come at Uranus from behind. She would kill him. She never saw me, so I jumped her and slashed her leg with my knife.”
“Is that why you became the Star Heir?” Ares asked gleefully, “Because you saved grandfather's life?” I shook my head.
“No.” I said, “In fact, once the Amazons had escaped, grandfather threatened to kill me, for interfering and spoiling his plans. If I was ever to breathe a word of the attempt, he would do unspeakable damage to me. None of you have ever been inside the torture chambers, otherwise you would understand the unspeakable damage. Last time I was there, they were boiling people alive.” I grinned morbidly, as everyone winced, except Ares. He was completely enthralled.
“When I was ten years of age, I was told that I would be the Star Heir, Poseidon had been passed over because he failed the test.” I said.
“I hope that is a good thing.” Poseidon said mournfully. I ignored him.
“When I had been named, I was told that my reign would start that very day.” I said, “I was told, since I was no more than a child, I would be under the control of the namer forever, and become twice upon twice as wicked as my forefathers. I left the chamber and went straight to the labyrinth. I arrived in time for the second dealings with the Amazon. I halted the second assassination attempt, and left another injury with Hippolyta. This time she remembered me and swore that she would kill me, one day. Father was not much more grateful than grandfather had been. But he got no true tale out of me, on the reason I knew about the labyrinth. But he did send me into the Amazon jungle as an envoy. Not meaning to brag or anything, but I am possibly the only person to have entered that place and come back alive.”
There was a long silence, when I finished. Zeus seemed to be pondering my story. He fingered the hilt of the Thunderer. Finally he looked up.
“Tell me, Hades.” he said, “Am I the first of the first born to be saved?” he asked. I snorted.
“How should I know?” I cried, “I was not around when father's older brother or sister was born. You do realize that sometimes the first born is a girl?”
“That was not what I was asking.” Zeus sighed, “But what happened to all our uncles and aunts, and our great uncles and aunts.”
“Killed.” I said shortly, “Star Fathers do that, you know.”
Once more the chamber was perfectly silence. I studied the floor. These pauses were getting really annoying. Than Zeus stood up.
“Well, lets make this official, shall we?” he said.
“Make what official?” I asked suspiciously.
“If Persephone must be with you for the rest of her life, than I prefer everything be done proper.” was the surprising answer, “I take it your friend, Prometheus is her father, therefore you must ask him for his daughter's hand.”
“It is a little late for that.” I retorted.
“True.” was the reply, “But he can still take her back and not let you anywhere near her.” I raised my eyebrows, looked at Prometheus, than at Zeus.
“Ought I to ask her as well?” I asked, after a minute. Nobody answered me.
I approached, Persephone and her family. She got to her feet. Demeter glowered. Prometheus looked pained.
“Well, forget that I ever saved your life.” I told him, “Pretend we first met in the Underworld, so you will not be biased.”
“You saved his life?” Demeter asked with a hiss. I ignored her.
“Prometheus,” I began, “Will you permit me to ask your daughter if she will be my wife?” There was a short silence. Demeter shook her head. Prometheus laid one hand on my shoulder.
“Remember, you can be a good man if you desire.” he said, “I will allow, on these conditions, every day you have to give her at least one compliment, you must treat her mother like your own mother, and you must never lose your temper in front of her.” I raised my eyebrows. Persephone started giggling, as she clutched at her mother's arm.
“Hades will never keep those arrangements.” she snickered. I turned and glared at her.
“I can too!” I snapped.
“You will lose your temper before the day is out.” she smirked.
“Why don't you just refuse, and call the whole thing off.” I said sulkily, “You can still come back, and not see me. I am very good at not being seen, when I do not want to be seen.”
“You failed already.” she said lightly. I groaned. I was publicly humiliated. If only I could crawl back into my hole.
“That is that then.” I said, “Farewell, I am off to my home. You should probably go back, fairly soon. The further away you are from me or the Underworld, the weaker you will grow.” I turned to go, but she caught hold of my arm.
“You are not even going to ask me?” she demanded.
“So you can say no to my face?” I demanded, “You already pointed out that I failed, before ten minutes was up.”
“You need a large slice of humble pie, Hades.” she retorted, and tossed her flaming hair.
I touched one of the red curls, as it whipped past. Every thing that had gone wrong, was my fault, because of my pride.
“Persephone, with your mother's permission, will you return to the Underworld as my wife?” I asked. She let go of her mother's arm and took mine.
“I was waiting for you to ask.” she whispered. I glanced at her mother. Demeter scowled fiercely, than nodded.
“But if you ever make her unhappy, you will rue the day.” she whispered. I nodded, than slid my arms around Persephone. Her face turned up as mine turned down.
Hades
Freezeway, 10, Year of the Golden Moon
My Dear Orpheus,
We were already ten days into the new year, and the waters were frozen over, when Persephone and I returned to the Underworld. Prometheus had staid with Demeter, but sent his greetings to his friends. Charon stared at us as I lifted Persephone into the fairy.
“What?” I growled, “Did you think Zeus was going to execute me?” Persephone touched my arm. I swallowed my angry words.
“You could greet your king and queen properly, instead of gaping at us, as if we were fish.” I said with forced calmness.
“My Queen, my king.” Charon said and bowed stiffly. Persephone flung her arms around him.
“Oh I am so happy to see you again.” she cried. I pulled her away from him.
“But you need not be so happy about it.” I protested.
“I declare, Hades, you are jealous.” she said.
“I am nothing of the kind.” I retorted.
Everyone, even the furies and Spinx were delighted to have Persephone come back. But in spite of everything, I saw how much more solemn she was in the dark, than under the sun. I would have to compromise and spend some of my time in the light. I shuddered, but it could not be helped.
Hades
Freezeway, 15, Year of the Golden Moon
My Dear Orpheus,
If only there was a chance that you would come back, everything would be absolutely perfect. Pluto returned one day. I was showing Persephone how we could speak with the other Underworlds, but as soon as my staff touched the water, Pluto exploded out, right into my arms.
“Pluto!” I yelled, dropping my staff and embracing him, “You came back.”
“Of course, I came back.” he replied, than he tugged on my hair, “But I have a nice friend who does not toss me away at a moments notice.”
“Who?” I demanded, feeling anger swell up inside of me.
“One day you may know.” Pluto chuckled and leaped onto Persephone's shoulder, “But as it is, it is pleasant to be home, and see you happy, Master.”
Regards,
Hades
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