Hades' Daughter

The River Styx

Tut, tut, tut. The sound of my footsteps reverberated through the place. One of the scary things about Hell was the unusually quiet place. I was nearing River Styx and caught sight of Zephir's figure at the side of the river.

Ah, the river was still as black as I last saw it, which was many years ago. I cleared my throat and Zephir, seemingly heard me, turned around to hand me my sword.

"I'm sorry, are you okay?"

"I wouldn't be standing here if I'm not."

Then came an awkward silence. I walked around, and every place brought back memories from the past...happy ones, in fact. That was when my mother was still around. It felt like nothing had changed, just the people, always the people, never the things.

It was always the same routine, people came and went, Hades still remained as the king of the underworld. Rest in peace, mummy.

"Your mother is dead?" Zephir broke the silence. Damn, I forgot about his ability to read minds. I tried to change the topic.

"Don't read my mind. Or else I'll leave you here." I hissed angrily.

"Okay okay I'll stop. You need to calm down. Just...don't leave me here. This place is dark."

"Ha. I thought you have the mighty ability to brighten up my cave? Why don't you do it to Hell?" I scoffed. Seems like the prince of light is scared of darkness.

"Urgh. Don't get me started on this place. It's creepy. And Hades is an intimidating man. But Engel...I would take her and brighten up her life anytime." A smile creeped up his face. I rolled my eyes. Stupid Engel. All the guys in Hell are falling for her innocent chams. Now Zephir too? I should have known better.

"This is the first time we spoke without arguing. You better not start one."

"Yes m'lady. Shall I escort you back to the terrifying room?"

"No."

"Mood killer."

"Lame joker."

By the time we got back to the room, we were shouting at each other. What's worse is that we're not making any sense. Then, Hades had to cut in and stop us. He is so alike Zeus in many ways, but yet two worlds apart.

"Knock it off you two. I shall now give you your first task." He handed Zephir a scroll. Seriously, who uses a scroll nowadays?

"What does it say?"

Zephir opened it and read it aloud.

A garden of immortal flowers.

There lies a gem so clear

Unknown to mankind it is hidden.

At a place you cannot see.

The more you find it, the more it's hidden.

"What does it mean?"

"That's for you two to figure out. Now you will embark on your quest. Engel, escort them there."

"Yes, sir. Follow me." She replied with her sickly sweet voice.