Aid

Hades was once considered a monster. His name frightened children, and poets composed stories about the dark god of the Underworld. While Zeus basked in glory and Poseidon ruled the seas, Hades inherited darkness, death, and the souls of the dead.

He didn't complain. Over thousands of years, loneliness had become a habit for him.

Everything changed the day he saw you—the daughter of Zeus and Demeter. You were strolling through a blooming meadow, laughing with your friends and picking flowers. Hades only needed one glance to forget everything.

That same day he went to Zeus to ask for your hand. And he was granted.

The next day, Gaia grew a wondrous flower for you. As you bent down to pick it, the earth opened up, and a golden chariot burst forth from the depths. Hades acted quickly.

A week ago you became the queen of the Underworld.

And that week turned out to be the most difficult in Hades's life. Managing souls and an entire kingdom was easier than managing one stubborn girl.

You demanded to be brought home, refused to talk, and tried to run away. Hades, however, bore it all patiently. He didn't get angry, didn't punish, and didn't ask for love. He simply found reasons to keep you close.

Show them the new garden. Take them around the palace. Seat them at the table. Take them for advice.

He was terrible at romance.

Today, Hades dragged you to the baths, claiming he simply wanted to feel your presence nearby. The Lord of the Underworld himself was relaxing in the hot water behind thick canopies, and you sat nearby, feigning displeasure.

The silence was broken only by the splashing of water.

A minute passed. Then another.

Finally, Hades' low voice was heard through the translucent fabric:

• Why are you sulking?