The Shadow Summoner | Book Three - PJO Universe

twelve

NEARLY EATEN BY SPIDERS

Ariana knew instantly that she was in a dream, back in the underworld with her father.

They hadn't spoken since the end of the second war after they had gotten into an argument over Hades not helping Nico when he fell into Tartarus.

Ariana was furious with him, though deep down she knew she was being ever so slightly unfair. The gods were not allowed to interfere, especially when it concerns their children.

Still, she didn't think it was an excuse to constantly neglect their children. Especially considering the promise she forced them into when she turned sixteen.

"Ariana.."

Ariana sighed upon seeing her father, anger bubbled from inside of her.

"Wake me up, I don't want to speak to you." She spoke in a harsher tone than she intended.

Hades narrowed his black eyes at his daughter. "You know I'm not one to tolerate your disrespect." He replied in a stern tone.

Hades tilted his head and sighed, letting out a small laugh.

"I've only ever tried to do what is best for you, child. But you are as stubborn as your mother and I refuse to let you do something stupid like she did."

Ariana's head snapped. "Stupid? My mother died protecting me, I strongly hope you're not referring to that."

"No I am not referring to that." Hades scoffed and shook his head.

The god of the dead rose from his throne, walking towards his daughter. "I loved Cassandra, your mother, very so much. I loved her as I love Persephone."

Ariana shifted on the spot. Her mother was not a subject that was often brought up between the pair and especially never in front of Persephone.

"What do you want, Hades?"

Hades stepped a bit closer to Ariana, making sure to be the closest he can get without breaching her personal space.

"For one, to tell you that I love you." Hades raised his hand and placed the back of it against Ariana's cheek.

His hand felt slightly cool to the touch, being an underworld god, but still comforting and soft.

Hades saw a brief flash of confusion cross Ariana's face but she remained silent, her words caught in her throat.

"There is another thing." Hades muttered as he continued to lightly caress his daughter's cheek.

Hades dropped his hand and let it fall to his side as he began walking back to his throne.

"A fate is in store for you soon, it will bring you honor and respect. It is a fate only a select few were also met with." Hades paused for a second before speaking again. "A fate you are ready for."

"What are you on about?" Ariana asked, confused.

"There are plans in the making." Hades continued. "When the time comes you'll realise something and it'll all make sense."

"What-"

Hades held up his hand. "You must go, Ariana. Remember your values and keep them above everything else."

Suddenly, Ariana's vision became blurry and the scene of the underworld dissolved.

Her vision cleared. She found herself laying on one of the beds. By the window in Cabin Seven, holding a ceramic pot of purple and red hyacinths, stood Apollo.