The Crowns of the Gods.

Meeting the Fates

 Blair and Manny had been doing really well, and Luna and Hercules were finally ready to present his case to the council. The anticipation hung thick in the air as Hercules, a towering figure of strength and nobility, prepared to address the gods. He had done everything right; he went through the process a soul needed to be reborn before their time in the soul garden was up. Since Hercules was neither a soul nor alive, he never had a set time in the soul garden. Luna was worried about his rebirth, as most who are reborn do so without their memories. She wanted him to retain all of his memories, and her worry etched lines of concern across her otherwise serene face.

Over the last few weeks, Luna had spoken to Blair about his case. The whole time, she had no idea that Blair had already arranged for the council to agree to everything Hercules was asking for. After all, he was a great hero for the gods. Blair wanted to honor not only him but also her sister. Luna was a good person who deserved happiness, and Blair was determined to ensure she was honored.

Blair entered the grand meeting hall, her footsteps echoing on the marble floor. She stepped up to her throne, a majestic seat adorned with intricate carvings of flames. She called upon her element, casting a circle of fire in the center of the room. The flames roared to life, illuminating the hall with a warm, golden glow, summoning every god and goddess. Luna, Bayo, and Jinx sat on their thrones, each radiating their own unique aura of power, while Hercules stood in the middle of the room, a smile of hope and determination on his face.

"Macaria, Ananke, Rhode, and Dike, I stand before you today to ask for another life so that I can be with Ananke," Hercules said, his voice strong and unwavering, echoing through the vast chamber.

"If we agree to this, Hercules, what will you do with your new life?" Blair asked, her gaze steady and penetrating as she looked down at the legendary hero.

"Love Luna to the best of my abilities, act as a protector to her and you all. There is one more thing I need to ask before you make a decision," Hercules said, his eyes flickering with a mix of hope and uncertainty.

"And what would that be, great hero?" Jinx asked, leaning forward with interest, her voice soft yet commanding.

"I would like to retain my memories, so I can protect you all and remember Luna and our love," Hercules said, his expression earnest, as he glanced at Luna, whose eyes shone with a mixture of relief and admiration.

Blair exchanged a look with her sisters, their faces reflecting a shared understanding. The flames in the circle danced more vigorously, casting intricate patterns of light and shadow on the walls.

"Hercules, we would be honored to grant you another life. You will retain your memories and live as long as Luna lives. Will this be acceptable?" Blair asked, her voice ringing with authority and compassion.

Hercules bowed deeply, gratitude evident in his every movement. "Yes, it will be more than acceptable. Thank you, Macaria, and thank you all for this gift."

Luna looked shocked at her sister, who smiled warmly at her. The bond between them was unspoken yet profound, a connection that needed no words. Blair's nod to Hercules was subtle but filled with promise, signaling him to accept the offer.

"Yes, Macaria, this will be perfect," Hercules said softly, his voice carrying the weight of hope and renewal.

"Then, Hercules, we give you life anew, with the name Austin," Blair declared, her tone solemn and commanding.

The girls stood up, and with a synchronized snap of their fingers, Hercules disappeared in a brilliant flash of light. Luna looked at Blair curiously, her eyes wide with a mixture of excitement and bewilderment.