Leaving the Heart of the Ocean, Hades prepared to return to the Underworld. Just as he was about to depart, the Magic Stars swayed slightly, emitting a dark purple glow as if they had sensed something significant.
He paused, extending his divine sense to probe the area. Keres, confused but obediently waited silently, ready to follow Hades' lead.
Soon, Hades withdrew his divine sense and moved in a specific direction. Keres quickly kept pace beside him until they arrived at a vast island.
The sea was immense, dotted with countless islands, each holding its own mysteries. Some might conceal ancient treasures, others could harbor beautiful maidens, while some might be home to fearsome monsters. In the boundless expanse of the ocean, anything was possible.
Hades landed on the island, motioning for Keres to follow. "Let's go."
"Yes!" Keres replied, stepping in time with Hades as they ventured deeper into the island. On this sunny day, the laughter of children echoed around them. They played joyfully, carefree and unaware of the burdens of life. In this Golden Age, humanity thrived, indulging in the simplicity of happiness.
Standing atop a small hill overlooking the village, Hades turned to Keres. "What are your thoughts on humanity?"
Kerr paused, contemplating deeply. "I believe humans are products of darkness, their nature fundamentally evil. They may seem carefree now, but they've committed countless wicked acts. This reflects their inherent flaws."
"Human nature is evil," Hades echoed.
"Yes," Keres affirmed. "Even in this age, while gods cultivate their powers, many humans desire shortcuts, seeking to elevate themselves through the defeat of Titans rather than through growth and discipline."
As the goddess of fate, Keres understood the darker tendencies of humanity. "Their ambition can lead to ruin, and this is why I view them with disdain."
"Then why do they exist?" Hades pressed, intrigued.
Kerr hesitated before recalling, "Father God once said that humans are the darlings of the world. No matter the changes they face, they will endure and evolve as time progresses."
"Correct," Hades replied thoughtfully. "Erebus was right. Humans are favored by the world, and this truth compels the gods to pursue a different path to control them."
Hades remained silent, observing the joyous scene below. As the sun dipped toward the horizon, darkness gradually enveloped the island. Humanity, cherished by the world, was endowed with incredible potential. It was said that only humans could wield the power to slay gods, powers such as the God Killing Flame and God Killing Thunder, crafted by Hades himself.
The gods recognized that since humanity could not be extinguished, it was wiser to nurture their gifts. By cultivating select humans, they could ultimately wield the power of god-slaying in their own right.
"The world has chosen humans as its protagonists," Hades mused. "And we, the gods, choose to guide them, turning them into our most loyal followers."
Keres contemplated Hades' words. If humanity was akin to a sharp blade forged by the world, then perhaps they could be directed and controlled. As the goddess of fate, her abilities could serve as that guiding hand.
With newfound resolve, Kerr knelt before Hades. "I understand."
As dawn broke, the sky brightened in response to her enlightenment. A young man approached the hillside, drawn by an unseen force. Unbeknownst to him, he was destined for this encounter.
"Here he comes," Hades remarked quietly. As the boy drew near, the dark purple Magic Star transformed into a skull, merging with him in an explosive surge of energy.
A chilling roar erupted from the boy as a powerful aura enveloped him, dark purple flames igniting around his form. Gradually, he became a vessel for Hades' will.
Moments later, the newly empowered warrior knelt before Hades. "Earthwalker Gorgon: Ox, at your service!"
"See Lord Hades!" the boy declared, reverence evident in his voice.
The long night of waiting had not been in vain. With Keres's realization and Ox's return, the foundation for a new force in the Underworld was firmly established.