Time is a peculiar concept for the gods, both the least and most valuable of resources. For Hades, every moment spent cultivating his power felt both endless and meaningless. He couldn't even recall how long he had been in this state of timelessness.
"Lord Hades!" Keres knelt respectfully, a gesture that signaled his reverence.
Hades acknowledged him with a brief nod. Keres continued, "This is a spiritual thought sent by Poseidon. I dare not make an appointment."
As he spoke, Keres carefully relayed a ray of divine thought to Hades. The light blue stream shimmered as Hades examined it, remaining calm. It was a typical method of communication among the gods, and this particular message was no exception.
"Invite me…" Hades reflected. Poseidon's message was simple, inviting him to the Heart of the Ocean, not about the impending Titan Wars, but rather a personal invitation. After a moment of contemplation, Hades stood decisively. "Keres, follow me."
"Yes!" Keres rose, adorned in his luxurious Underworld garb, and followed Hades as they departed for the Heart of the Ocean. The reason behind Poseidon's invitation eluded Hades, yet he trusted that Poseidon's assurance of not regretting this meeting was enough.
Their interaction was straightforward. Whether it concerned cooperation or other matters, the clarity of purpose sufficed to bridge their communication.
Upon reaching the Heart of the Ocean, Hades and Keres were greeted by the sea fairies, who led them deep into its vibrant depths. Hades took in the breathtaking transformation that had occurred. What was once familiar had been replaced by a palace of unparalleled opulence, the very heart of Poseidon's realm.
In this territory, Zeus's previous presence seemed trivial. Even if Poseidon allowed Zeus a temporary stay, the other gods loyal to Poseidon would never accept him as an equal.
Soon, Hades entered the temple, where Poseidon awaited on his throne, clad in a deep blue robe. The god of the sea greeted him with a calm demeanor. "Hades, you've arrived."
"What is it?" Hades replied, his tone indifferent.
Their conversation was characterized by a pragmatic simplicity, marked by a mutual understanding that emotions played little role in their dealings. In their rivalry with Zeus for the position of god-king, this stark contrast in communication may have cost them the throne, as Zeus's charm attracted allies to his side.
Poseidon stated, "I need your Magic Star to help seal a god."
"Reason? Cost?" Hades inquired, his interest piqued.
Poseidon produced a transparent, diamond-shaped crystal. "Is this enough?"
Hades examined the crystal, recognizing it as a fragment of ultimate power, about one-tenth of the whole. "Yes," he confirmed.
The transaction satisfied both. Poseidon continued, "After three thousand years, our business will resume."
"Agreed." Hades showed no hesitation, and Poseidon promptly inscribed a divine contract, transferring the crystal to Hades.
As Hades reviewed the contract, he signed it, and in an instant, the essence of the covenant merged with their souls. This divine pact held significant weight; betrayal among gods was commonplace, but a contract forged in the name of the absolute was not to be trifled with. Violating such a covenant would invite ruin.
With the contract secured, Hades turned to leave. Staying longer felt unnecessary now that their agreement was in place.
"Hades…" Poseidon's voice lingered in the air. "Zeus lost miserably to you, yet he remains unaware of the true power he lacks. Rights and desires are hollow; only true divine strength can alter fate."
In the depths of his thoughts, Poseidon conjured a vision of his future self; defeated, insulted, even by mortals. But as the vision dissipated, he regained his composure, pondering Hades's preparations. "Cooperation with you is the best path forward," he mused, watching his brother like a jester in a grand play.
As calm returned, Poseidon resumed his practice, reflecting on the unique paths and opportunities that lay before the three god kings, Hades, Poseidon, and Zeus. The outcome of their choices remained uncertain, shrouded in the mysteries of fate.