Echoes of a Starborn Goddess

A Call to the Underworld

Theleia lay in her apartment, propped up with pillows, the remnants of her accident still lingering in the form of dull aches and occasional bursts of pain. The world outside seemed vibrant and alive, but her own space felt stifling. The walls, adorned with musical notes and paintings of stars, felt both comforting and confining. She missed the freedom of movement, the thrill of creating music, and the warmth of Artemis by her side.

As she stared out the window, lost in her thoughts, a sudden chill swept through the room, causing her to shiver. The atmosphere shifted, the air thickening as a familiar figure emerged from the shadows. Hades stood at the foot of her bed, his presence commanding yet calming, dressed in dark, elegant attire that seemed to absorb the light around him.

"Theleia," he greeted, his voice low and melodic, sending a shiver down her spine. "I hope I'm not interrupting."

Theleia blinked, taken aback by his sudden appearance. "Hades! What are you doing here?" she asked, surprised yet intrigued by his presence.

"I came to seek your help," he replied, his gaze serious. "There's a situation in the Underworld that only you can resolve."

Theleia felt a pang of anxiety at the prospect. "What do you mean? I'm not in any shape to help anyone right now."

Hades stepped closer, his eyes glinting with intensity. "This is not just any task; it requires your passion, your music. There's a disturbance among the souls—a lack of harmony that needs mending. You have the ability to bridge the gap between realms."

Theleia hesitated, her mind racing. She had always been drawn to Hades's passion for the souls he tended and the depth of his character. It was a stark contrast to the lightness of her world, but the weight of his request hung heavily in the air.

"I don't know, Hades," she said slowly, torn between her desire to help and her fear of leaving the safety of her apartment. "I just got out of an accident. I'm still healing."

"I understand your hesitation," he said, his tone softer now. "But this is more than just a task. You have a gift, Theleia. Your music can heal and inspire in ways you cannot fathom. The Underworld needs your light."

As he spoke, Theleia felt the familiar pull of his passion wrapping around her, igniting a spark within her. She wanted to help, to use her music to create something beautiful even in the darkest of places. But the thought of abandoning her safe haven—and Artemis—made her heart ache.

"What if Artemis needs me?" Theleia whispered, doubt creeping into her voice.

"She will understand," Hades replied, his gaze unwavering. "This is a chance for you to discover more of who you are and what you can do. You're not just a goddess of passion; you're a force of nature."

His words resonated with her, stirring a longing deep within. She imagined the thrill of creating harmony in the Underworld, the melodies that could echo through the halls of the forgotten souls. But then, thoughts of Artemis flooded her mind—how would she feel if Theleia left?

"I... I need to think about it," Theleia stammered, her heart racing.

"Take your time," Hades said, a slight smile touching his lips. "But remember, this opportunity may not come again."

As he stepped back, the shadows began to swirl around him, but Theleia felt a sudden rush of determination. Her passion was not just for herself; it was meant to be shared, even if it meant stepping into the unknown.

"Okay," she said, surprising herself with her conviction. "I'll help you."

Hades's eyes brightened, and he extended his hand, inviting her into the shadows. Just as she reached for him, the door swung open, and Artemis stepped inside, holding a note that she had found on the kitchen table.