For the moment, no one fully grasped the changes occurring within Hades, nor did they care to confront him about it. What could they say? To scold Hades? It would be a fool's errand. The Underworld, under his command, operated under its own laws, and challenging Hades would be akin to mocking a storm.
Tartaros, known for his amusement in watching the unfolding chaos, found the idea of reprimanding Hades laughable. The truth was, Hades's growing power was terrifying. The thought of opposing him was utterly absurd. Besides, anyone who dared to challenge Hades would find themselves paying a steep price—perhaps their very lives.
Hades had meticulously considered this reality. If anyone were to challenge Tartarus, they would need to confront the repercussions of losing the Underworld—a task far too monumental for any divine being to undertake lightly. The threat of obliteration loomed large, making silence a prudent choice.
As Hades continued his work, the Underworld was undergoing a rapid and explosive expansion. The integration of hell into the Underworld was yielding unprecedented improvements, far surpassing any previous enhancements. Hades, as a Primordial god, brought an unparalleled essence to the realm, dwarfing the influence of hell's deities, who were merely god-kings.
At that moment, the Underworld expanded wildly, every corner of it—right down to the Ninth Prison—felt the surge of divine power flooding in. The World Tree flourished under this onslaught, reaching new heights as Hades's essence became part of its growth.
"Notice! Notice!" came frantic calls throughout the realm as the ghostly figures of the Underworld, including the bull-headed and horse-faced guardians, scrambled to maintain order amidst the chaos.
The souls inhabiting the Underworld were caught in a frenzy, intoxicated by the divine power that shimmered temptingly before them. Many believed that if they could seize this power, they might ascend to godhood themselves.
But then, with an overwhelming presence, Persephone's voice cut through the tumult: "Silence! No one is allowed to descend into chaos."
Instantly, the divine authority of the Underworld responded. The chaos quelled as the souls knelt in submission, quivering in fear. They understood now was not the time for ambition.
"Queen of the Dead," Pandora spoke, kneeling with her trident in hand, "The Underworld continues to expand, but souls are becoming restless outside the Nine Great Prisons. They are gathering…"
Persephone nodded. "I am aware. This is a natural consequence of our growth. We must remain vigilant. Ensure that everything operates smoothly; the Underworld's expansion is paramount."
"Yes, my queen!" Pandora replied, retreating to carry out her duties.
Persephone's thoughts drifted, contemplating the formation of the Tenth Hell—a significant milestone in the evolution of their realm. Hades had laid the groundwork for the original eight prisons, and now, with the integration of hell and the World Tree's growth, they were on the brink of monumental change.
The law of the Underworld dictated that with each expansion, new hells would emerge, amplifying its power. Each new prison represented not just growth, but the incorporation of more terrifying divine energies.
"Will my husband succeed this time?" Persephone pondered aloud, her heart swelling with belief. "He will become the supreme Primordial god! I have faith in him!"
A smile crossed her lips as she focused on stabilizing the Underworld. As its queen, she bore the responsibility of maintaining order while Hades prepared for his next monumental step.
Every god of the Underworld shared this anticipation. The ongoing expansion was exhilarating, but what truly excited them was the prospect of Hades achieving his ultimate potential. They believed that once he took that final step, everything would change, and the Underworld would ascend to unimaginable heights.