Hades and Persephone {UNDER MAJOR EDITING}

♛ 1 ♛

U N D E R W O R L D

In the depths of the Underworld, where souls awaited judgment, Hades sat on his throne, lost in thought.

"Why do you always wear that gloomy expression, Hades? Is something troubling you?" Rhadamanthus, one of the Underworld's judges, asked, interrupting the brooding god.

Hades smirked, shaking his head. "And pray tell, what could trouble me? I am trouble incarnate," he replied with a hint of pride.

Rhadamanthus chuckled softly, rolling his eyes. "You know, Hades, you've never truly been trouble. You act as though you're this cold-hearted god of the dead, but deep down, you care about those foolish mortals."

The King of the Underworld sighed, leaning back against his throne. "Why must I concern myself with them?" he muttered, thumping the back of his head against the throne.

Rhadamanthus regarded him with sympathy, imagining the burden of a selfless god weighed down by loneliness. "You should consult the Fates about your destined queen," he suggested.

Hades raised an eyebrow, amusement flickering across his face. "And who would accept the God of the Dead as a husband?" he asked, skepticism lacing his words.

"Really, Hades? Have you no sense? It's fate, after all. No one can defy it, not even a lady destined to be your queen. There will be challenges ahead, but you and she are meant to be together," Rhadamanthus explained.

Hades nodded slightly, considering the idea. "What do you expect me to do?" he asked, his tone mocking.

"If you're genuinely asking, then I suggest you go to Olympus and inform Zeus that you're finally seeking guidance from the Fates. You need a queen, Hades. With her by your side, the Underworld will flourish," Rhadamanthus replied, pride evident in his voice.

The notion stirred something within Hades. He stood up, nodding thoughtfully at Rhadamanthus. "Perhaps it is time for me to have a queen," he admitted.

Rhadamanthus smirked. "Then we shall all look forward to a new ruler."

"A new ruler?" Hades echoed, confusion knitting his brow.

"Believe me, Hades, a queen holds power. The king may act, but the queen thinks. She will guide you in every decision," Rhadamanthus explained.

Hades laughed, dismissing the idea. "A king is always the one in power. No one dares to defy him."

"Except for the queen, Hades. No one dares to defy her, not even the king," Rhadamanthus countered.

Hades' thoughts raced, contemplating the implications of finally having a queen.

"Everything will be fine, Hades. Don't overthink it," Rhadamanthus advised, noticing the god's hesitation.

"I hope so," Hades replied. "I'll take my leave now."

"Go get the girl," Rhadamanthus winked.

~
O L Y M P U S

High above in Olympus, where the skies opened up to all of Greece, Zeus lounged on his platinum throne, two enchanting nymphs draped across his legs.

Suddenly, the gates of Olympus swung open with a loud bang, an unwelcome intrusion that jolted Zeus to his feet.

Annoyed, he turned to see his older brother Hades striding in. He gestured for the nymphs to leave.

"Welcome, dear brother," Zeus greeted, his confusion quickly shifting to curiosity. "What brings you to my realm? This visit is quite unexpected."

"Don't flatter yourself, Zeus. I'm here to inform you of something important," Hades replied flatly.

Zeus smirked, feigning intrigue. "And what could possibly compel the King of the Underworld to leave his domain?"

Hades rolled his eyes. "I want a queen."

Surprised, Zeus erupted into laughter. "Wait, are you serious?" he teased, wiping tears from his eyes.

"Yes," Hades replied, unfazed.

Zeus' laughter faded as a serious expression took over. "Do you honestly believe any woman would take you?"

"I'm not seeking a suitor, Zeus. I can get what I want my own way," Hades asserted, his jaw clenched.

"And what do you mean by your 'own way'?" Zeus asked, raising an eyebrow.

Hades smirked. "Abduction."

Zeus leaned back in his throne, sipping ambrosia. "Very well, it's your decision."

"Is there anything else you need to inform me about?" Hades asked.

Hades nodded. "Actually, I'm here to tell you that I'll be speaking with the Fates today. Whoever is destined to be the Queen of the Underworld will be mine, whether you approve or not."

Zeus acknowledged his brother's declaration with a nod, though uncertainty lingered in his gaze.

"That's all for now. I'm off to consult the Fates," Hades said, making his way toward their chamber.

~

C H A M B E R OF F A T E S

"What brings you here, eldest son of Cronos?" Lachesis asked as Hades entered their chamber.

"Good to see you too," Hades replied sarcastically.

"Ah, yes, the King of the Underworld is always so bitter," Clotho mocked.

Ignoring their banter, Hades approached the three Fates. "I have some questions, if you'll permit me."

Atropos nodded. "What would you like to know, Hades?"

Clearing his throat, Hades stated, "I seek a queen and wish to know who she is."

The three Fates burst into laughter, infuriating the god.

"Why must you laugh?" Hades snapped, clenching his fists.

"Perhaps because it's amusing to us," Lachesis replied with a smirk.

Hades turned to leave, irritation rising. "I see I won't receive a decent answer."

"When the King of the Underworld feels gloomy and alone, he rises from his ebony throne and ventures into the world. In a field, he discovers a child, and thus her fate is sealed.

She with auburn hair, Makes his heart race so, Her fair skin shines bright, And quickly he falls low. With chocolate brown eyes, Beauty that's truly rare, A lover of flowers, Who brings danger unaware." the Fates chanted, halting Hades in his tracks.

"What does that mean?" he demanded, confusion etched on his face.

"You may leave now," Lachesis said, ignoring his question.

"But you didn't answer me," Hades protested.

"We owe you no answers. We do not take commands," Clotho stated.

"We've given you significant details. Now leave, son of Cronos," Atropos added, leaving him no choice.

Hades sighed. "I appreciate the information. Until next time, Fates." He bowed and exited.

As he walked away, Hades couldn't shake the Fates' words from his mind.

"A lady with auburn hair, chocolate brown eyes, and a fondness for gardening? Really?" he muttered incredulously. "Could I truly fall for someone like that?"

~