The Underworld Trials (⚢)

Floral Facade

I spend a week in the room I initially woke up in, rationing the food and water I had packed. Nibbling on a few crackers, I lift my fingers to my face, sighing in relief when I can't see through them. Persephone hadn't been lying when she said she found me bleached white. The first day had been the worst, since I had felt like a ghost, but now that I was more solid, I decided it was time to get over my self-pity and explore.

I throw the covers off myself, feeling a childish satisfaction in the way they lay crumpled on the floor. If disrespecting the lavish items that Hades and Persephone own irritates either of them, then that's a win in my book. I think back on the wispy servants I've seen drifting through the rooms and, with a sigh, put the duvet back over the bed.

I peek around the frame of the doorway, scoffing at the over elaborate baroque frescoes and statues. It's time to redecorate, Hades.

I wander aimlessly through the long corridors, dwarfed by the giant ceilings.

"Gods, you could fit a titan in here," I whisper under my breath, then realise that might be the purpose.

An hour of exploration reveals several boring rooms, all painted with colours and Greek gods that quickly grow old.

I sigh, ready to find the way back to my gilded prison when a line of light catches my eye. A door down the hall is ajar slightly, and my ever present curiosity, curse it, has my feet moving towards the room before I can think about it.