Retribution

“He won’t die, but he’ll be sore for a little while,” stated Malachi as he eased out of the shadows.

I stared straight at him, but he didn’t utter another word as he turned back around and walked away.

19

Unya

I strode through the castle hallways, when a timid looking boy came running around the corner. It was clear by his relief; he had been looking for me but his expression soon went back to worry when he took in my appearance.

“Our lord has summoned you, don’t keep him waiting for long,” he said before rushing away.

It was antagonising knowing I would have to change back into one of those torture styled garments they liked to call dresses.

By the time I was ready to enter the throne room, I was dressed in a garment that would be pleasing for him, even if I detested it.

It was another boned corset top, ivory in colour, with silver lace running from my hips down to the floor and splaying out into a fan shape behind me. The skirt was an ebony colour with a satin shift that fell to just above my knee with ebony netting falling down the rest of the way until it brushed against my toes.

I made my way into the cavernous room, to see Hades yet again sitting on his throne of bones and Persephone was sitting in her more regal but simplistic throne beside him.

Yana stood next to her queen, with Semias standing to attention at Hades side.

“What a pretty picture you make my dear, I can only imagine how delightful you will look in your wedding dress.”

“Thank you for your kind words my lord, I am lucky to be able to serve someone of your stature, with such generosity you are the king of men.”

Even though the words made bile form in my throat, I could tell by his face I had successfully managed to stroke his ego.

“I have decided a month was much too hasty, how could you adapt to the idea of a wedding in that time frame.”

My relief at his words was palpable, but I was soon set to be back on edge, as I noticed the glint sparkling in his eye.

“The fight between Malachi and Troy will occur in three nights, and two days after that you will be wed. I only allow the two days as a gesture of good will; I feel it would be plenty of time for any necessary mourning over whoever fails to win your hand.”

His words shocked me, and I couldn’t think of a damned thing to say. So instead I dropped to my knees, bowing my head in a show of reverence.

“What did I tell you my dear, she is glowing at the idea of being married. Persephone thought a month was too short, but as usual I was correct. Therefore a man must rule this place, a woman is much too emotional for this type of role. The power would go straight to their little minds and they would never make the hard decisions.”

He laughed derisively at his own statement, while Persephone looked upon him in utter contempt, if she had a dagger, I believe she would have used it on him. Because that was the exact action, I wished to perform on him in that moment, instead I remained mute and waited to be dismissed.

He let me go, after preceding to spout more derogatory comments. It was plain to see Persephone was not impressed by what he was saying, but still she sat there looking regal and keeping her mouth closed.

I was headed back to my rooms when I felt the presence of someone behind me, but every time I glanced back, I appeared to be alone. I made it back to my room, to see Adiran hovering in his corner but his eyes widened as the presence grew stronger and a gentle hand fell upon my shoulders.

I turned around and came face to face with the Queen herself, I did not bow or break eye contact and I did not appreciate how she invited herself into my domain and perused at her own leisure.

“Can I help you my Queen?” I asked, unable to keep the bite from my tone.

“Dear child, you can drop the pleasantries I can feel how much I anger you. Why I cause such a reaction is beyond me, but the reason is neither here nor there. My dear girl we have a lot to discuss, but I will not utter a single word until we are alone.”

She said that last part with her eyes fixed upon Adiran. The shadow creature did not seem best pleased she had been aware of his presence, but I knew he would not leave willingly. Unfortunately for him I had ways of expelling him temporarily, and for some reason I felt as though it was beneficial to hear what Persephone had to say.

I lit every sconce adjoining my walls and placed lanterns in any area where shadows remained, I saw anger in Adiran’s expression, but he soon disappeared from my sight and I was finally alone with the Queen of the underworld.

“You seem to have found yourself victim to a leech, and its power and strength seems to be growing in haste,” She stated, talking of my shadow friend.

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“Is that why you deemed it necessary to gift me with your presence?” I asked, still struggling to not be rude.