Page 70 of Tempted By Hades

In moments of despair, Persephone’s touch acted as a balm, mending the wounds carried by the souls. Her powers became a conduit for empathy, an ethereal connection that transcended the boundaries between the living and the departed. Once resigned to the shadows, the souls found a glimmer of light in her presence.

As she moved among them, tending to both the garden and the ethereal needs of the departed, Persephone’s magic became a beacon of hope, illuminating the otherwise somber expanse of the Underworld. The synergy between her powers and the souls’ collective experiences created a unique harmony, shaping the narrative of their shared existence in the afterlife.

While the upcoming Sealing Ceremony weighed on his mind, watching Persephone wield her newfound powers reassured him. Perhaps, in her, he had found not just a queen to rule alongside him, but a force capable of transforming the very fabric of the Underworld. The dichotomy of his concerns and the burgeoning potential within her only added layers to the complexity of their unfolding story.

The grand halls of Olympus echoed with the anticipation of the Sealing Ceremony. Hades, clad in regal darkness, stood with Persephone at his side. The air was charged with a mix of divine energy and the formality of the occasion.

As this day drew closer, a knot had seemingly formed in his chest. First, it had started out small, like an annoying parasite that had sunk its teeth into his skin. But as they approached the day of the Sealing Ceremony, that knot buried itself deeper, tightening and growing, a reminder of how this all began with deceit and the simple message had brought him to this very moment.

Bring the goddess of spring to the Sealing Ceremony.

There had been no other way except to marry her. No guests were allowed, except for the mates. The seer required her presence, and he could only bring her here as his queen.

His conscience and his thirst for vengeance—justice, really—continued the tug of war within him. Neither side won or lost, and thus, he was stuck in the middle. Perhaps it was his fault for burying his head in the sand. Each day, he would tell himself that he should tell her the truth of it all. But when he looked at her beautiful face and the way she looked at him so lovingly, he’d lost the courage.

He couldn’t lose her.

He wouldn’t.

“Do I look alright?” Persephone asked, sounding unsure.

“Do you look alright?” he echoed. Surely, she didn’t think she looked anything but breathtaking and regal. She stood tall. A vision of contrasting beauty mirrored her dual nature. Her gown, a masterpiece of divine craftsmanship, seamlessly blended the regality befitting the Queen of the Underworld with the exquisite essence of the goddess of spring.

The upper part of the gown embraced the darkness of the underworld, with deep, midnight-black fabric cascading down her shoulders like the folds of a velvet cloak. Intricate patterns reminiscent of constellations adorned the bodice, shimmering in a faint, ethereal glow. The neckline traced the delicate curve of her collarbone, adorned with iridescent jewels that mirrored the distant sparkle of stars.

The gown transformed seamlessly into a cascade of rich, earthy tones as it descended. Emerald greens and cerulean blues unfolded, creating a lush landscape that captured the essence of spring. The fabric, seemingly alive with the spirit of nature, flowed gracefully around her form, imitating the gentle rustle of leaves in an unseen breeze.

“Well?”

“You look stunning, Persephone mou.” Leaning down, he nuzzled at her neck, breathing in her sweet floral scent. “If we weren’t surrounded by people, I would take you away, strip off all your?—”

“Hades,” she admonished, her cheeks reddening with embarrassment. “Not now.”

“Later, then?” he teased.

She chuckled. “Yes, later.” Her fingers crept up her collarbone to the delicate chain around her neck. He noticed she did this a lot when she was nervous. She never took it off, even when she slept. In those times when he lay awake watching her, he also had the chance to examine the piece. A gold chain held a pendant, an iridescent gem that seemed to capture the essence of both realms she presided over.

As they strolled through the decadent halls of Olympus, the atmosphere was charged with the energy of divine celebration. Laughter and music echoed, mingling with the dazzling hues of luxurious fabrics adorning the gods and goddesses. Each deity seemed to revel in their own unique form of entertainment.

Hades observed the diverse gatherings—Athena, the wise goddess of wisdom, engaged in animated conversation with Hermes, others in playful banter, while a few indulged in competitive games that showcased their divine prowess. Dionysus, the god of wine, presided over a lively group, a goblet in hand. The air was infused with the scents of ambrosia and nectar, adding to the festive ambiance.

The divine splendor of Olympus unfolded before them, a kaleidoscope of personalities and powers. Hades noticed the occasional subtle exchange of glances, the underlying tension beneath the merriment that hinted at the complex relationships among the gods. Yet, in this divine realm, the revelry never ceased, and the grandeur of Olympus was on full display.

“Mother,” Persephone greeted as Demeter approached. Mother and daughter exchanged an embrace. “It’s nice to see you.”

Demeter tsked. “Darling, what happened to the dress I sent you a few weeks ago? It would have looked so much more fitting on you.”

Persephone pressed her lips together. “I’m sure it would have, Mother. But pink didn’t really seem suited to such an occasion. I think this gown is more suited to my new standing, don’t you think?” Her tone was diplomatic, but there was no mistaking the meaning behind it: she was now Queen of the Underworld, and she would demand the respect she deserved.

Hades couldn’t have been more proud or in love with her at that moment.

Demeter turned to Hades with a stern gaze. “Remember, Hades, she is to be introduced to Zeus. This is a significant step, and I expect her to be treated with the utmost respect.”

Despite his own feelings on the matter, Hades nodded, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. The introduction marked their union and formal acknowledgment of the divine pantheon.

Demeter’s expression shifted to a blend of reassurance and motherly affection as she looked upon her daughter. “My dear, this introduction is merely a formality. There is truly nothing to be worried about. Zeus may be the king of Olympus, but you are a goddess in your own right and Hades’s equal.”

“That, we can agree on,” he said as he took Persephone’s hand, leading her toward Zeus with a composed demeanor. As they approached, he leaned in and whispered, “The relationships among the gods are complex, and not everyone is fond of each other. Just try to be civil and show respect. It’s a formality we must endure.”

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