After navigating numerous affairs in the grand realm of Japanese mythology, Hades returned to the Underworld. There was no need for urgency; for the gods, time was a vital resource. They understood that matters could be addressed gradually, not hastily.
"Lord Hades!"
Hypnos and Thanatos, the twin gods, bowed respectfully. Hypnos reported, "Master Hades, we've received varied news from Olympus. Ares, Hephaestus, Apollo, Artemis, and Hermes have been granted different authorities by Zeus and are now the primary gods of Olympus."
"Good growth," Hades replied, acknowledging their progress. After all, they were among the future Twelve Lord Gods of Olympus, and it was only natural for them to evolve so significantly over ten millennia.
"Indeed!" Thanatos added. "These gods are growing exceptionally fast. It's likely they'll reach the status of Titan main gods before the God King ceremony begins. Master Hades, we should take them seriously."
Thanatos, known for his irascibility, displayed caution—a sign of his own growth. It was crucial to remember: one must never apply human reasoning to gods. Their expressions of tyranny, indifference, or anger are mere facets; the essence of a god defies simple categorization.
"Um." Hades nodded calmly. "There's no need for alarm; their opponent is you."
"Yes!" The twins exchanged glances, understanding the implication. They knew they were no match for Hades, and to lose against these new gods would be a grave embarrassment.
"Moreover," Hypnos interjected, "Zeus seems intent on destroying the world. Eris hasn't clarified, but it appears Zeus fears the growing strength of humanity under Prometheus' teachings. They are, after all, in the golden age."
Hades pondered this, then nodded thoughtfully. "Even if the world is destroyed, the gears of fate will continue to turn. I am curious about Athena's eventual birth."
"Step back."
"Yes!" The twin gods withdrew, and Hades gazed intently into the distance, eager to witness the unfolding events in this vast world. The future was brimming with possibilities, regardless of the order in which they appeared.
"Great-grandmother!"
In just ten millennia, Bell had matured, his sky-blue hair dancing with the breeze, adorned in a pure white robe. Resembling Zeus yet possessing the wise eyes of Metis, she had flourished under Gaia's guidance.
"Bell!" Gaia gazed at her with profound tenderness, embodying the love of a generational bond. After sealing Cronus, her affection had shifted entirely to Bell.
"Try this," Gaia said, flicking her fingers to conjure a red light, symbolizing the essence of the sun—flames and light. As the sun god, Bell's core was fire itself.
"This is...?" Bell hesitated, recognizing the unique essence of this gift, crafted by Gaia specifically for her.
"Don't worry, dear. This is a present from your great-grandmother. Embrace it!" Gaia encouraged.
"Yes!" Bell accepted the divine energy, feeling her power surge as the sun-like essence enveloped him, enhancing her aura tremendously.
"I have more gifts for you, Bell," Gaia continued, her gaze filled with affection. "Your future will be fraught with trials."
With that, she presented two additional treasures, her eyes reflecting both pride and concern. Despite Bell's exceptional qualities—strength, character, determination—Gaia recognized the potential pitfalls of Zeus's arrogance within him.
Bell required guidance and training, not the freedom to drift aimlessly. Both Metis and Gaia understood this necessity. They taught him diligently, tempering Bell's arrogance and preparing him for greatness. His path was bright, destined to surpass Zeus as the fourth generation of God King.