Page 20 of Touch of Death
I hate that so much is riding on him, or any of these arrogant gods that Death seems to despise so much. And yet, all I can do is wait and pray that they will find it in their hearts to show mercy.
After what feels like an eternity, Hades’ gaze returns to Death.
“Guilt must weigh terribly on you, Death, for you to stoop so low for a mere mortal soul. However, as fascinating as whateverthisis, I see no compelling reason to give her back. She would only have to eventually return anyway,” he says with a sneer and wave of his hand. “Your deal was carried out as agreed upon, and now she is one of mine. The girl stays, so I suggest you enjoy what little time you have left together. As soon as I find out where that damned dog is, the mortal’s time here finished … At least, with you.”
Disappointment stabs me like a dagger to my gut.
“Come,” Death says with an impatient snort as he wastes no time reaching for me.
“Enjoy your time in the city,” Hades calls out with a dark chuckle as I’m all but dragged out of the throne room.
9
Hades
So, Death has returned.
I was almost beginning to think that he would not show his face again until it was too late. I snort to myself as I realize how easy he has made things for me without even realizing it.
Raising one hand, I motion for one of my guards.
“Yes, my king?”
“Inform your men that Death will be visiting our city for the indefinite future.”
“Of course, my king,” the stone knight says with a nod of his head. “At once.”
“Wait, and send for Eris, as well. I will meet her at our usual place.”
“And if she will not come?”
“Make her.”
“Yes, my king.”
The guard signals for another, and I watch as they exit the throne room before motioning for court to proceed.
One of my subjects steps up, blathering on about one thing or another, though all I really care about is the young woman huddled just behind him. I am about to say as much when something moves out of the corner of my eye, and I glance up to watch my wife slip from the room.
Frowning, I cock my head to the side as I watch her disappear from sight. A humorless smile tugs at the corner of my mouth as I suddenly rise, causing the entire room to kneel before me.
“I have heard enough; I have far more pressing matters to attend to. Court will reconvene tomorrow morning,” I announce as I turn to leave before stopping to look down at the man kneeling at the bottom of the dais. “You, who is the girl with you?”
“My daughter.”
“Then you must celebrate, for she is now one of my harem. Guard, have her prepped and brought to my chambers this night.”
“Sire?” the subject asks just as one guard grabs the young woman. “She is already betrothed—"
I whirl on him, fire bursting along my spine as I slowly step toward him. His eyes fill with terror, and my smile widens.
“Did I ask? She is mine now; it would be best that you forget her. Return tomorrow, and you will be paid accordingly.”
He remains silent as I stare down at him, and finally satisfied that he has learned his lesson, I move to leave again.
“My king, I would give anything, but please … she is all I have.”
I scoff, my lip curling up over my teeth as I turn and close the distance between us. Grabbing him by the neck, I lift the man up off the floor so that he can say nothing, do nothing, but claw at my hand.
