The Crowns of the Gods.

Finding the Truth

 Blair woke up the next morning, her eyes fluttering open to the soft light streaming through her bedroom window. She stretched, feeling the luxurious silk of her sheets slide over her skin, then reluctantly rolled out of bed. The cool wooden floor sent a shiver up her spine as she made her way to the wardrobe. She chose her outfit carefully, pulling on a red bandana top that clung to her form, paired with a black leather skirt that accentuated her curves. She slipped into fishnet stockings, their delicate weave adding a rebellious edge, and completed the look with knee-high black boots that made her feel powerful and invincible.

Blair walked over to her vanity, its antique wood gleaming in the morning light. She sighed, taking in her reflection. With practiced hands, she began her makeup routine, the rhythmic strokes of brushes and pencils grounding her in a semblance of normalcy. She plugged in her curling iron, letting it heat up as she meticulously applied mascara, eyeliner, and a bold red lipstick. The familiar ritual brought a sense of calm, even as anticipation for the day ahead gnawed at her.

Just as she was finishing her final curl, a sudden shimmer of light announced Hermes's arrival in the room. Blair caught his reflection in the mirror and couldn't help but smile. She turned to face him fully, noting the respectful bow he offered.

"Hermes, my dear," Blair began with a playful smirk, "have you ever heard of knocking before entering a room?"

"Yes, miss. Many apologies," Hermes replied, his tone formal yet sincere. "But Abi has requested a meeting with the crowns and the Big Four. I was to relay the message immediately."

Blair raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. "Do you know what the meeting is about?"

"Goddess of Blessed Death Siren, God of Death Erebus, and the one called Amanda," Hermes answered, his expression serious.

Blair nodded thoughtfully. "Tell her we will see them tonight. She has her peace accord."

"Right away, miss," Hermes said before disappearing in a blur of wings and light.

Blair sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly. It had been three months since they arrived on Olympus, and Zeus still hadn't revealed their true purpose. The uncertainty was driving her crazy. Every day they sat on the thrones, their powers growing stronger, yet they were left in the dark about their ultimate mission. The more time they spent on Olympus, the more their abilities flourished, nearing the point where teleportation out of Olympus was within their grasp. Jinx and Blair had been practicing diligently, mastering the art of transporting themselves to the Soul Garden and back. Hades had assured them that they would eventually perfect it, enabling them to return to their everyday lives.

Blair glanced around her room, the opulence of Olympus contrasting sharply with the simplicity of her former life. She wasn't sure if the others shared her longing for normalcy. Jinx reveled in the vast knowledge housed within the library's ancient tomes. Bayo found fulfillment in aiding those in need on the ocean's expanse. Luna, on the other hand, was enamored with Hercules, working alongside him to prepare his case for the council. Blair knew the outcome of that case, having orchestrated it herself. Hercules was to be reborn as a young man, strong and protective, a perfect match for Luna. Their immortality meant they wouldn't suffer the same heartache Blair and Manny were enduring.

Blair's thoughts drifted to Manny, her heart aching with a mix of love and sorrow. She had orchestrated so much to ensure a happy future for Luna and Hercules, yet her own path remained shrouded in uncertainty. With a determined breath, she pushed those thoughts aside, focusing on the day's challenges.

Blair walked into the hall, her footsteps echoing against the marble floors. She spotted Manny sitting in the same chair she had left him in the night before, his hopeful eyes lifting as he saw her approach. She sighed, a mixture of frustration and sadness tugging at her heart. Every day, Manny waited in that chair, clinging to the hope that she might finally talk to him. The anger she harbored was a heavy burden, and she didn't know how to let it go or what to say to mend the rift between them. Sometimes she wanted to scream and hit him, but with her sisters so close, she didn't dare. Her volatile powers could easily set him on fire, and despite her anger, she didn't want that. At least, she didn't think she did.