The three god kings agreed upon a timespan of 100,000 years. Before that, Hades intended to return to the underworld to assess the fruits of their recent endeavors. The underworld needed to begin functioning properly, and the World Tree had to gradually absorb the elemental essences of water, fire, and wind, as well as the power to create the four worlds.
"Let's head back first."
"Yes!"
With that, Hades spoke lightly, and both Hypnos and Oniris opened the gate of the underworld, stepping through.
The underworld was eerily silent, a stillness so profound that it felt as if no sound could penetrate its depths. An invisible pressure enveloped the realm, blanketing it in a heavy quiet.
Hades remained poised, waiting for something to materialize. Slowly, the overwhelming pressure seemed to envelop him entirely. Then, two terrifying divine presences emerged around him.
Darkness! Night!
Erebus and Nyx, the primordial gods, stood vigil over Hades, much like a protective family. They permitted their offspring to mingle with equals but would not allow any stronger deities to threaten him.
"Erebus."
"Nyx."
"Do you wish to make enemies of my consort?"
A voice, elegant and dignified, filled the air, carrying a weight that intensified the pressure around them. In that moment, it felt as though the entire world conspired against him.
Yet, in the face of such formidable force, Hades remained composed, gazing steadily at the unfolding scene. Erebus appeared, speaking with indifference, "Gaia, you've crossed a line."
A woman of remarkable yet understated beauty stepped forth, with long black hair cascading down her form and a flowing white gown enveloping her. Although her features were common, their harmony was striking—a perfect blend of elements. In her hand, she held a golden scepter, signaling her status as the supreme primordial goddess.
Earth Goddess Gaia.
As the first of the primordial gods, Gaia possessed divine power that was unmatched, a chasm of difference compared to other deities. She paused, ignoring Erebus entirely, focusing her gaze on Hades. Her expression was calm, seemingly deep in thought.
Hades stepped forward, leaving the protective aura of the two primordial gods and confronting Gaia's pressure directly.
"Grandmother…"
"First meeting."
Hades bowed slightly, a gesture of respect towards an elder. Though he was a time traveler, he carried the essence of Hades within him, recognizing the need for respect in the presence of strength.
"Hahaha"
Gaia withdrew her pressure entirely, her annoyance fading as she smiled. "Hades, you are remarkable. I must admit, you have outmaneuvered Cronus. While the threads of fate may bind you, your strength is undeniable."
Gaia considered her next words carefully. "I'm curious why you do not seek the title of God King. If you wished for it, I could abandon all that I have prepared."
Hades shook his head gently. "Grandmother, I have no interest in the title of God King. I understand the fate that comes with it; the position holds no meaning for me. Just like Father, the outcome is predetermined. What matters is breaking free from those shackles."
"Good!" Gaia exclaimed, her tone warm. "Hades, you're a wonderful young man."
Despite her dissatisfaction, she continued, "Nevertheless, I will reward you."
Raising her hand, a radiant light emerged, the essence of pure earth. Hades's eyes gleamed as he recognized its significance. The essence of the earth was akin to the essence of the ocean and sky—fundamental components in the creation of the four worlds.
Having already secured the essence of the sky from Cronus's treasure, and now obtaining the essence of the earth from Gaia, he was only missing the essence of the underworld and ocean. With these elements, the World Tree could thrive, laying the groundwork for its future development.
"Thank you, Grandmother," Hades replied calmly, accepting the earth's essence.
This was Gaia's duty. Regardless of her feelings towards her grandchildren, as the goddess of the earth, she was bound to fulfill this role.
With the birth of each God King, Gaia had always bestowed a gift. She had done so for Uranus, for Cronus, and now it was her obligation to do the same for the new generation.
After a moment, Gaia spoke again. "Hades, I will fulfill my responsibilities. I eagerly await how you, Poseidon, and Zeus will confront the gifts I have prepared for you."
Hades remained unflappable. "We will face what lies ahead, regardless of whether we are ready or not. It's all a matter of taking it step by step."
From the beginning, Hades had been a figure of calm resolve. Whatever challenges lay ahead, he was prepared to confront them, wielding the sword of Pluto to clear any obstacles in his path.
"I, too, look forward to the future."
"You speak confidently," Gaia noted, a smile playing on her lips. It seemed her purpose in visiting was solely to deliver this gift. Once done, she departed, and with her exit, the oppressive pressure dissipated completely.
Hades turned to Erebus, knowing that, with Cronus's defeat, it was time for important discussions to take place.