Chapter 75: A Memory's Cost

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Hades and Khronos arrived at the Underworld's grand entrance, the cavernous gates creaking open.

"Khronos, prepare a sturdy boat for our journey," Hades instructed. "We'll need to navigate the River Styx's treacherous waters."

Khronos nodded.

"I'll find a suitable vessel. But, my lord, where do you think Goddess Styx will be?"

"Leave that to me," Hades replied. "I have...sources. You focus on the boat."

With a nod, they parted ways.

Hades descended into the Underworld's depths, seeking a secure location for his golden amulet. He entered a hidden chamber, its entrance guarded by three-headed Cerberus. The beast's eyes gleamed in recognition, allowing Hades to pass.

Within the chamber, Hades carefully placed the amulet within a pedestal, sealing it with a whispered incantation. The pedestal sank into the stone floor, protected by powerful magic.

Meanwhile, Khronos made his way to the River Styx's banks, where twisted, gnarled trees leaned over the dark waters. He selected a sturdy boat, crafted from the wood of the Underworld's own cypress trees.

As he worked, Khronos pondered Goddess Styx's possible locations. He knew the river's dangers: swirling whirlpools, treacherous currents, and lurking creatures.

"Goddess Styx might be in the river's heart," Khronos thought, "where the waters are deepest and darkest."

With the boat ready, Khronos awaited Hades's return.

The Underworld's shadows seemed to deepen, anticipating the journey to come.

Hades returned to the riverbank, where Khronos waited with the boat.

"Careful, Khronos," Hades cautioned. "One misstep, and our souls are lost forever."

Khronos nodded, helping Hades into the boat. Hades steadied the vessel as Khronos climbed in.

With a deep breath, Khronos began to row. Hades navigated, pointing out hidden dangers.

"Avoid the whirlpool to our left... Steer clear of that sunken tree..."

As they glided across the river, Hades spoke in a low tone.

"When our business is settled at Mount Olympus, we'll need to find a new ferryman. Charon's... absence leaves a void."

Khronos chuckled.

"I agree, my lord. The River Styx requires a sturdy hand."

Hades raised his fist, signaling Khronos to halt.

"We're approaching the river's heart," Hades warned. "Water pools and sirens ahead."

The air thickened with an eerie, haunting melody. Sirens, bound to the river, lured souls to their doom.

Khronos's rowing slowed, his eyes scanning the waters.

"Beware, my lord. The sirens' song is seductive."

Hades's gaze remained fixed ahead.

"We must resist. Our goal is Goddess Styx."

As they drifted deeper into the river's heart, the sirens' voices grew louder, tempting them with promises of forgotten memories and eternal rest.

As they drifted deeper into the river's heart, the sirens' voices grew louder, tempting them with promises of forgotten memories and eternal rest

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