As I walked through the hall, I saw that the door to my new office had been opened, and a young woman was hunched over the desk inside.

I walked into the office through the door. It's a fairly mundane office, in a classical Greek way. It had almost no decoration, except for a large marble table in the center of the room, not unlike the one in my sister Danae's office. Behind is a surprisingly modern leather office chair with a pair of matching chairs in front, a sofa on the side near the fireplace, several empty bookcases and some filing cabinets. All of them look very new.

Everything was covered in a thin layer of dust, even the piles of paper, folders, envelopes, and parchment that spilled from the table.

I immediately decided that I needed a computer. A computer and some area rugs. There are also vacuum cleaners. And electricity, for that matter...... The room was lit with torches and candles. I looked at the cobwebs on the edge of the ceiling and considered buying a flamethrower as well.

Either Hades took the whole idea of "sticking to tradition" to the extreme, or it is true that no one has been in this office for a long time.

Probably both.

"I'm sorry," I whispered, "you're my new assistant?" ”

"Then it depends on whether you are the new Lady Pluto," the young woman straightened up and turned to face me.

I involuntarily took half a step back. Jet-black hair, straight and slightly thin, almost obscured her eyes...... But even through the curtain of my hair, I could see that they were black.

Mind you, it's not just the darkness. I mean no pupils, no iris, no sclera. Just glittering black orbs that seemed to look straight at me. They were so intense and appealing that I struggled to get rid of the instinctive fear reactions they evoked so that I could accept the rest of her.

She was a few inches shorter than me, pale, and dressed in the exact same clothes as me, but without armor. She was barefoot and I was wearing boots. Somehow, to her, it seemed completely ...... Normal...... Normal.

I had to clear my throat before answering. "I am."

She smiled, the corners of her mouth curled, not showing any teeth. Coupled with her eyes, there was obviously something unsettling in that expression. It's the kind of smile you'd expect to see before someone rushes up and slices your throat with a knife.

"Then I'm your new lieutenant," she replied, curtsying politely. "I am Melinoeh, the daughter of Hades."

"Talia, Athena's daughter." I replied formally, then bowed my head slightly. "I've heard of you. Aren't you a muse? ”

She giggled. "Technically, I'm an underworld goddess. But I've been a muse for some. She stood on her tiptoes and did a little spin. I inspire madness and nightmares! Horror writers like Poe and Lovecraft adore me. And Jim Henson. She sighed, her expression turning to sadness. I miss Jim. He understands that nightmares and monsters don't need to be scary, they can be cute, fascinating, and useful. ”

Her sadness was gone, replaced by a toothy smile this time. This expression made me shiver a little. "I beg my father to let me be your deputy until he finds someone more suitable. Until then, I," she gestured to herself, "I'll make sure you," she gestured to me, "will know where you need to go and what you have to do when Father doesn't give you a specific task." ”

She turned back to her desk and sighed. "I'm afraid we do have work to do, make sure it's cleaned up and sorted out before you finish your first task."

"Thank you." I walked up to her and stood at her desk, determined to get along with her, despite her absolutely creepy personality. "Isn't that weird?"

"Usually!" She replied in a rather whimsical tone. Then she looked up at me. "What's so strange?"

"I," I said, without looking at her, "to take over this office." Take over the job. And you, working for someone younger than your age. ”

She seemed to think seriously about the issue for a moment, then shrugged her shoulders. "A little, maybe. Mother's Death ...... It made me mentally unstable for a while. I don't remember about the greater part of a century after her death. But...... You know, I really hate to see this office empty. She'll have it too. She always said that the father needed someone to be his eyes, ears, and mouth with the other gods. She lowered her voice, "He's been lonely, lonely. ”

I can understand. "His position is not easy."

Her expression—which she seemed to exaggerate a little, perhaps to compensate for her empty gaze—was palpably lighthearted. "Do you understand how important what he does?"

"I have an idea...... But maybe you should explain it to me. I gave her a tentative smile. Just in case. ”

She responded to my smile, which seemed more natural than before. "It makes sense, Talia. The father is responsible for caring for and preserving – and punishing – the souls of the deceased when appropriate. Not only those who worshipped the gods of the Greco-Roman temples, but also those who did not follow others. Religious traditions. ”

She sounded like a history professor, I swear. When we take lessons with his shadow, Homer sounds like that.

"Most importantly, the father is in charge of controlling and controlling the monsters," Melinoeu said. "And to deal with those who run away and cause trouble in the mortal world. Although this task fell to some other Avatar in the absence of Lady Pluto. In particular, Madam Jupiter, Madam Juno and Lord Mars have been busy with this matter lately. Especially Ms. Jupiter. I'm sure they'll be glad of your help.

"I'm sure," I agree. "So what kind of work should I expect besides hunting monsters?"

Melinoe smiled again, more naturally. She seemed to react to my normal treatment of her. "In addition to hunting monsters, Ms. Pluto is also in charge of several things. You will," she ticked her finger, "to represent the Father in the mortal world—in times of need—usually when he desires to communicate with other gods...... Including other gods. After the death of certain people, you collect and escort their souls, generally important people or people who have received a specific punishment. ”

"You're going to do whatever you're asked to do," Hades said behind us. This time I sensed his approach, so I wasn't surprised.

We all turned to face him and bowed politely. Then Melinoe pouted and said, "Father, do you always have to lurk around and wait for the perfect word to enter?" ”

"I see you've met," Hades said dryly, ignoring her question. "Can you guys work together?" He asked her.

"Yes, father," she whispered. Then shyly added, "I like her." ”

His face seemed to soften a little. "Good. Talia, I have your first assignment. It's a lot simpler than most of the tasks I've given you, and I don't think you'll find it too onerous. He pulled out a scroll tied with a black ribbon. Give this to Athena. Give it to her personally, don't give it to anyone else. ”

When I stepped forward to take the scroll from him, I think I saw a hint of humor in his eyes, trying to hide my smile. Well, he was right. I was always worried that I would never see my mother or my sisters and brothers again. It was a clear relief to know that I would, at least in the course of my work. While really, it might be a foolish thing to worry about. "Yes, my lord."

"You don't have to rush back," he added in an unexpectedly gentle tone. Then he stiffened his expression again. That said, if you want to collect any of your personal possessions, it will be an opportune time, before you get really busy. And your schedule isn't that tight yet, and you can't take a few minutes to reassure your family that you've regained your health and happiness. ”

If he's going to be expressionless, so am I. Keeping my expression completely neutral, I replied, "Thank you, sir." As you said, there is still a lot of work to be done. I'll keep my visit brief for now. ”

Hades nodded. "Good. Then let's go with you. ”

I hesitated, not knowing how to go.

"Ah, yes," he said. "I forgot. Your boots have several useful spells: the ability to pass through without being detected, the ability to teleport by sight, and the ability to teleport over long distances. Just think about your destination and take a step...... I'm sure you have some training using such tools. ”

"You might want to close your eyes when you're gone," Melinoeu said behind me. "It can be very disorienting until you get used to it. Unless you're into that kind of thing, in that case, enjoy it. ”

"Thank you," I said, as sincerely as I know.

With that, I clipped the scroll under my armpit, focused on the foyer of my mother's palace on Mount Olympus, and walked forward. World...... Blurred by the lack of better terminology. It's like watching an oil painting spin, run, and smear around me. A moment later, everything was back in focus, and as I stumbled to my knees, my sister Danae grabbed me, retching as I was what my last meal was (was it breakfast?). A lifetime ago, literally...... Trying to escape.

"You didn't close your eyes, did you?" She asked, sounding funny.

"No," I said hoarsely. "M message ...... for mom"

Danae smiled softly. "Well now, Lady Pluto. Is there any way for you to do this? ”

I winced. She's right, even if she's making fun of me. I just lost the pro ball. "Silly me." I screamed hard at my rebellious stomach, and after a few moments my balance returned.

Danae helped me to my feet, brushing the imaginary dust off my shoulders. "It's better that way. Now, try again. She chuckled.

I straightened my shoulders and looked into her eyes, surprised to find myself at eye level with hers. I haven't seen her for more than a year except passing by, and I've always thought she was more important than life.

However, I guess I'm also more important than life now.

"Madame Minerva," I said politely, "I carry the letter from Hades to Athena. Can I go in and deliver the letter? ”

She smirked and nodded formally in return. "You can, Lady Pluto, you're welcome."

I felt a strong sense of pride in being treated as an equal by my sister, whom I had admired all my life. Maybe I'll find fulfillment in this role after all.

"Thank you, Lady Minerva." Then my formal exterior cracked and I grinned at her. I just can't help it. "It feels so weird!"

"Do what?" As we walked up the steps leading to the main hall of the Mother's Palace, Danae asked.

"You, treat me equally," I said, feeling my embarrassment warm my cheeks everywhere but looking at her.

She smiled and put her elbow between my arms. "Well, little sister, you're on par with me now. Maybe not very experienced, but you have always been a very knowledgeable person. Her laughter and smile quickly faded. How is he as a boss? She gestured to the necklace around my neck.

I reached out and touched the stone with the Pluto symbol. Hades has a lot on his shoulders, and I hate to speak ill of him, but...... I sighed a little. "He's very ...... Stern. And distant. It's a bit abrupt and very dated. ”

"Phew," she sighed too. "I'm really looking forward to you being my deputy. I don't know what my mom was playing, and it's not often that I don't understand her behavior. I think we'll find out soon. ”

"If I asked, would she tell me?" I don't think that's possible.

"Probably not," Danae confirmed, then shrugged. "But you know what Mom always says. It never hurts to ask. ”

Truly.

"You should know something they didn't mention in training," Danae said calmly. "Sometimes, he will use you as an advocate...... Literally take over your body and speak through you. Over the years, my mom and I have done it three or four times. It was disturbing at first, and if my mom hadn't warned me, I would have been terrified. I have a feeling that Hades didn't mention it. ”

"There's a lot to cover and I'm sure he'll do it eventually." I don't know why I'm defending him, other than he's my boss. "Thank you for the reminder, though."

"One Avatar to the other," she said enthusiastically, patting me on the shoulder amicably. "Let's go, let's go see Mom."

She led me to the double doors of Athena's hearing room, knocked twice, then opened the door and led me in. "My lady," she said formally, "Lady Pluto has come to see you. She said she had a message for you from Hades. ”

"Thank you, Minerva, I'm waiting for her." Mother rose from her throne and walked towards us, meeting us in the middle of the two large braziers in the room.

I bowed politely and handed her the scroll. "My Lord has instructed me to give this to you personally, Athena."

Mom smiled softly and took the scroll from my hand, but didn't open it. "Thank you, Lady Pluto. Do you have a few minutes to spare, or do you need to get back to work right away? ”

"My lord let me stay for a few minutes," my lips curled into a funny smile. "To reassure my family, I have regained my health and well-being," he said.

Danae looked surprised, and her mother smiled happily. "Oh my God," she said after a moment, "I'm not sure that old grumpy man still has a sense of humor. He was always quite reserved, but after Persephone's death, he became downright ruthless. Danae brought chairs and some juice so we could catch up quickly. ”

Danae smiled. "Of course, Mom."

Mother led me back to her throne and sat inside, while Danae hurried to her errand. "I see you found my gift," Mom said as Danae left. "Have you figured them out yet?"

"Part," I said with a laugh. "I haven't had time to find out all their secrets. Thank you, Mom. ”

She sighed. "You're welcome, my little owl. I'm worried that I can't help you directly anymore, no matter how much I wish I could. She smiled. Although you are like all beings, you are welcome to ask me for advice. She looked me up and down and nodded. At least Hades gives you good armor and can match. I agree. When I see you and Danae side by side...... You look almost like a negative image of each other. ”

I didn't realize it, but she was right. As I've already noticed, Danae and I are both tall now. But I was dressed in black and gold, with my father's black hair and gray eyes, and Danae was dressed in white and gold, with blonde hair and blue eyes. As Athena's daughter, our traits are certainly very similar. And a lot like our mom's.

"I hope you don't think that's a bad thing," I whispered.

Mom took my hand and squeezed it gently, her smile a little more sad. "No, little one, not at all. I'm incredibly proud of you, although I would have preferred that you made the decision yourself. Sorry to have to take it from you. ”

"Fate?"

"I can't say."

It's not really an answer, especially from Athena. Depending on the situation and what she actually knows, she can mean anything from being honest not knowing, to knowing but being physically unable to tell.

I sighed slightly. Mom smiled faintly.

Danae returned, two folding chairs in hand. A maid followed her, carrying a tray containing a jar of orange juice—my favorite—three cups, and some small cakes.

Danae and I sat down, and when the maid was gone, my mother leaned over and smiled. "Well, you look healthy and energetic......"

"I woke up with a terrible headache," I told her dryly. "I'll talk to Hercules at some point."

Danae snorted and took a sip of juice to hide her smile.

"I hope you don't get too angry with him," said the mother, "or to me." ”

I hesitated, decided that being completely honest was the best strategy, and sighed. "I'm not happy with the situation. It's not what I want at all. But I'm determined to make the most of it. ”

Danae gave me a proud look. "That's my little sister."

"Indeed," Mom said. "I expect nothing less from one of my daughters. But you didn't answer the question. ”

"You have to run around the family," Danae said with a smirk.

Mom gently kicked her calf. "Shhhh Talia, you wouldn't be too angry with Hercules, would you? It really wasn't his decision. ”

I shook my head. "Not exactly. I think I recognize and understand the need for it. A little warning, though, would be nice. Or maybe a less violent approach. ”

She smiled. "I'll tell him. Although hopefully he won't have to do something like that again for a long time. ”

I took a sip of the juice and finally asked the question I had been dreading all along. "So is this post for life?"

"Or until you choose to retire," the mother said cautiously. "Although I strongly advise against doing this without a good reason. Convincing Hades to accept you as his new doppelganger takes a lot of hard work and persuasion. I shudder at the thought of having to do it again. ”

"Why are you doing this, Mom?" I asked, glad there was no hurt or anger in my voice, only curiosity.

My mother pursed her lips, put down her glass, and looked at me carefully. "I did this for a good reason, Talia, and made the decision after a long consultation with Apollo. I wish you were by my side with your sister, but that's more important. I would never do that, otherwise so be it. Never doubt that everything I do has my reasons. You are where you need to be.

It didn't take her to say more, and I understood that that was all she would – or perhaps could – say on the subject. By studying the writings of Kassandra and the Oracle of Delphi, I know how dangerous it is to try to explain prophecy, even to the gods. If Apollo had been involved in his mother's deliberations, it was likely that a prophecy had been involved.

Mom looked at my face and smiled. "You've always been a quick learner, my little owl. I know you'll understand. ”

I nodded reluctantly. "I think, I think. Not everything, but its basic framework. ”

"It's for the best," she said mildly. "To everyone, including you."

"Okay then." I took a sip of the juice and looked up in frustration. "Has anyone ever told my friends that I'm not actually dead? Or...... I don't think long to die. ”

Danae smiled. "I personally made sure to send a message as soon as we received Hades' message informing you that you can rest comfortably after the resurrection."

"Resurrected," I said dryly. "It makes it sound so much nicer than it used to be."

We all sipped silently for a minute.

Finally, Mom sighed softly. "Do you come back often?" She asked hopefully.

"As long as I can," I promised. "Judging by the piles of papers waiting for me in Pluto's office...... In my office, I have a feeling that I'm going to be busy for a while. ”

"I hope you can at least get help," Danae said. "I knew I needed to find a new deputy as soon as possible. I'm going crazy trying to track everything myself. ”

I nodded. "Hades' daughter, Melinoeux, is my new deputy."

They both were silent for a moment, Danae looking panicked and her mother amused.

"Well, my wording is not good," Danae said weakly.

I reached out and patted her arm gently. "I'll make sure she knows not to visit you and inspire real madness."

"Thank you very much."

"What's the use of sisters?"

Mom chuckled softly. "I'm sure you're going to have a good influence on her, Talia. And I doubt she'll be an excellent – even if unconventional – organizer. ”

"I doubt you're right," I agreed. "Do you have any response for me to bring Hades?" I pointed to the scroll I had brought, and it was now resting on the armrest of the Mother's throne.

She looked at it in amazement, then laughed. "That?" She untied the ribbon and unfolded it to show us a blank scroll. "That's an excuse to get you here so I can check on you."

I smiled, stood up when she stood up, and entered her arms when she hugged me. "Never forget that you are my daughter, TaliaRedowl. No matter where you go, no matter what you do, no matter what kind of person you become, you will always be my daughter. Now, I'm sure you want to gather some of your stuff..."

Before returning, I made sure my eyes were closed.