Chapter 8 – Hades
HADES
Before the doctor can speak, I lift a hand. My spies had already told me all I need to know. The witch is pregnant. By another prisoner, a demon. I don’t care who the fuck the father is. I care how this will impact me. The next time I want to use her powers, I want them working properly.
“She’s pregnant,” I say.
The doctor’s eyes widen. Yes, now he’ll know that I have someone listening to his little appointments, but I don’t care. This place is my domain. I will know everything that happens within it.
“She’ll need fresh air, exercise, good food, and less stress, or the child…”
“I couldn’t give a shit about the child.”
“That seems foolish.”
I stiffen as my wife enters the throne room. She wears a beautiful pale blue toga that reaches her feet, where golden sandals just barely peek out. Her hair is like spun wheat, braided down her back, and a dark crown made of black diamonds is nestled in her hair.
Even after so long, I’m proud when I see my wife. She is truly one of my greatest possessions. She’s lovely, if not very bright. I can understand why the loss of her daughter sent Demeter into such a rage, causing the seasons. I’m enraged every time she returns to the surface.
Few people willingly give up their pretty things.
“Why would that be foolish?” I ask her, trying to keep my tone respectful.
She saunters through the room and comes to stand beside the doctor. “Because of what the fates told me.”
My entire body stiffens, and I lean forward in the throne. “You spoke with the fates? They advised you about this situation?”
She nods and gives a little giggle that doesn’t reach her eyes.
“I told them of the witch with her unruly tongue whose powers you value so greatly. They said that one day she will have another child, and should we kill her just as the child is taken from her body, her baby will have all her powers. Then, and only then, can we raise someone to use as a tool and follow our every command.”
My heart sings. “We could finally be rid of the witch?”
She nods, and the doctor looks between us, his face shocked.
“Then we will give her any and everything she needs to ensure that the child that springs forth from her loins will be healthy and everything we could ever want.”
My dear wife gives a little bow. “You are always so wise, husband.”
I lean back in my throne and send for wine, and men and women for my bed. Tonight we celebrate. We celebrate the beginning of the end for Hecate.
She will be dead soon enough. And her child? Her child will be mine.