Post by Janobii on Jan 29, 2016 9:32:15 GMT -6
“Does it ever bother you?” Beatus looked up from his work. The current Earth Mage was standing nearby, staring at the gleaming blade of a sword he had just forged. He had that look in his eyes again. Hades Curvex, a blacksmith, questioned way too much about how the world worked. He also grew way too attached to the weapons he forged.
“What?” Beatus replied, eying Hades with a slightly annoyed look. Hades continued to stare at the weapon in his hands, his brown eyes focused on the glimmering blade that shown of brilliant steel.
“The way these weapons are treated. I mean, I understand some people treat them with respect. King Iskander is a great example of this. But…” Hades glanced away from the blade and looked at Beatus. “I see soldiers every day. Their weapons crying out in pain as they clash and break. Their wielders show no remorse, discarding the lives of their swords, bows, and arrows behind as if they were nothing more than tools of war to them.” Beatus sighed. They had talk quite often and it seemed the answer would never make it through Hades’s thick skull.
“Hades, people like King Iskander are rare. They treasure their weapons because they value the weapon that has brought them so many victories. But their weapons usually hold a large amount of monetary value as well. I think it’s possible with many people who value their weapons, it’s more for the money they spent on having them forged than on the memorabilia factor.” Hades’s expression fell a little. Beatus didn’t like belittling Hades’s hero. King Iskander was a great man after all, but this was something Hades needed to understand. If that meant attacking his idol, then so be it. “Think about it, Hades, how much did King Iskander pay you to forge Kopis?” Hades remained silent for a moment before sighing.
“A lot. Three sacks of jewels and gold coins,” Hades admitted. Beatus nodded and gestured to the sword in Hades’s hand.
“Exactly. He probably takes such good care of Kopis because it cost quite a bit of money to create the weapon. The same would be true with any other blade crafted at the same price.” Hades’s grip tightened on the hilt of the sword and his jaw tightened. He calmly placed the sword on the table in front of him and let out a stiff sigh.
“How dare you accuse him of such lowly beliefs!” Hades snapped at Beatus. “King Iskander is a great man. He treasures his blade as if it were his own child. I can tell by the way he handles it. He and the blade are one, as it should be.” Hades held his hand out and clutched the air as if he were holding the hilt of a sword. “A man and his sword, they are one. The sword is the extension of the man and his beliefs. They fight together to accomplish a goal. They are a team.” Hades looked at Beatus with a sour look. “Why can’t you understand that?”
“Hades, calm down. I am just trying to make you understand the beliefs of the soldiers in this time. Neither of us can truly judge why King Iskander takes care of his blade. It could be for the monetary value or it could be because he believes as you do, that the sword is an extension of himself. Both are viable options. Unless you can ask him yourself, you will never know and neither will I.” This did not seem to aid the situation very much, but Hades did not seem as angry as before. Hades let out a low sigh and stared at his hand in the air.
“I am unsure if I should continue to be a blacksmith,” he said quietly. “I do not like seeing my creations destroyed, their screams echoing in my ears as I watch them break by the hands of people who do not truly care for them.”
“Life manages,” Beatus replied calmly. Hades glanced back at Beatus, a look of confusion plastered on his face. “You have to remember, that woman founded the human race. Besides the original mages, every single individual on this planet is her descendant. Can you imagine what she feels whenever they go to war and she has to watch her creations be destroyed, their screams echoing in her ears as she watches them break by the hands of people who do not truly care for them?” Beatus paused to let that sink in then added, “She probably feels something similar to what you’re feeling right now. But does that stop her from continuing to have children? No. I swear every time I see that woman she’s pregnant.” Hades snorted and shook his head.
“That’s not a fair comparison. She can’t help it. She’s as horny as they come. Life will continue to do what she does until she dies. I can stop though.” Beatus walked over a placed a hand on Hades’s shoulder.
“Can you, Hades? The way you always talk about blacksmithing, I doubt that you really can.” Hades shrugged Beatus’s hand off his shoulder and crossed his arms. He could and he would. Unlike Life, he couldn’t tolerate this agony any longer. Beatus saw the resolution in Hades’s eyes and sighed. “All right, if that is your choice. But just think how disappointed all the people whom you have made weapons for will be when they find out you’ve stopped making them.” Hades bit his lip then replied,
“Don’t give me that.” He looked up at Beatus with narrow eyes. “How can I be sure they won’t make my creations suffer too? The only person who truly values their lives is me, it seems.” Hades reached out and picked up the sword on the table in front of him. “And if that is true, then it should be only I that wields the blades I forge.”
“You can’t be sure of that, Hades,” Beatus protested in his ever calm voice. “You never can. But neither can I, and I can’t stand the abuse of my own creations either.” Hades looked at Beatus in confusion.
“Then how can you stand seeing them destroyed?” Hades asked. “I thought, you of all people, would see my side of things as well.”
“Because there are people who will take care of them. Not everyone lets them, our creations, get damaged like the way many others do.” Hades paused in thought. Beatus was correct in that aspect. King Iskander certainly was a great example of this. While his motives were unknown to either mage, that did not change the fact that he still treasured his weapon and treated it as if it were his closest friend. Was it possible that there truly were others like that? An idea occurred to Hades and he paused.
“I have an idea. But, it might cause me to be away from this forge for a long time, possibly forever. Is that okay, Beatus?”
“It’s not my call, though, I personally think that would be a problem. Leaving would leave this area without your expertise, but if that’s what you feel you must do, I cannot stop you and will not try,” Beatus explained, a smile brushing his lips. Hades looked at Beatus then nodded.
“I understand and I’ll come back as soon as I can. But I think… I think I need to take a journey. I need to find these other people that think like we do. I want to see how other people treat their weapons and how other smiths cope with the loss of their creations. It will be a training journey for me.” Hades looked back at the wall, where the first sword Hades had ever forged was mounted. It looked terrible, an absolute wreck of a sword that would break if ever taken into battle. But Hades’s father had been so proud of it at the time. He claimed it was the best sword he had ever seen. Hades had not understood why at the time. In fact, the earth mage had been sobbing over how bad it was compared to the swords his father forged. But now, Hades thought he had a grasp as to why it was the best sword. It was the first sword Hades had ever forged. The first sword forged by a blacksmith was the most important sword he would ever create. It would be a disgrace to not continue to honor that sword.
“I understand, Hades.” Beatus squeezed Hades’s shoulder and gave him a reassuring smile. “I went on a journey as well when I faced the same issue. Everybody should go on a journey when it comes to that crucial point in their life, whether it be a physical or spiritual one. That is why I said I could not and would not stop you. You know you need to take this journey, so I will let you.” Beatus looked away for a second before sighing. “Though, with you gone, who will protect me from Aphrodite?” Hades cracked into laughter and pat Beatus on his back.
“I’m sure you’ll be fine. But if you’re really are worried, I’m sure Haruka would be fine with staying here to watch out for you. He is the Visions Mage after all,” Hades proposed. Beatus smiled and shook his head.
“I appreciate the offer, but you know as well as I do that he tends to disappear and reappear every few millennium.” Hades nodded and shrugged, as if to suggest that he wasn’t sure what else could be done. He looked up at the sword one more time then asked,
“Beatus, could you do me a favor?” Beatus looked at Hades then followed his gaze to the sword. “Could you watch Prota for me while I am gone? It’s my most prized possession, but I do not think Prota could survive the journey I plan on taking. So, could you watch it for me? At least until we meet again?” Beatus looked at Hades for a second before quickly looking back at the sword.
“Of course, Hades. Prota means a lot to you. I’ll watch it for you for as long as you’ll allow me.” Hades smiled and looked at Beatus.
“Good, then I know Prota’s in good hands. I can be at ease for part of my journey.” Hades looked around the shop then sighed. “Well, I guess I better finish up today’s orders then I’ll pack tonight and set out tomorrow.”
“All right. I'll help you with those orders so you can have more time to pack. How does that sound?” Hades’s eyes lit up and he nodded vicariously.
“All right! Let's get to work!”
***
’Dear Beatus,
By the time this reaches you, I will have probably already let where I have sent this from, so if you want to reply, best to send it through one of the other mages. I am currently visiting the Roman Republic. It's a nice place that's prospering. Very peaceful. It's quite refreshing from all the war bent empires that arise in current times. That's not to say that it's not at war, but when I visit here, it seems like it isn't. I hope it stays this way. I've met quite a few blacksmiths here. They were all happy to learn from me and I from them. The weapons here are so different from anything I've ever made before. It was very interesting to see how they were made. They have these unique spears called pikes and a few more swords. Whenever we meet again I have to show you how they're made! Maybe then we can give King Iskander some new weapons! Oh man, I get excited just thinking of how proud he'd be!
It's difficult out here though. I'm so used to having your company around that it's a bit hard not having someone to talk to beside me. I'd ask you come meet and join me, but I don't trust anyone else with running the shop or protecting Prota. Maybe I can try to stop by for a visit soon. I do still have that space ring you gave me after all. I have to say though, it’s more fun to walk somewhere than it is to just teleport. I might just walk everywhere from now on unless it’s really necessary to teleport. Sorry that I won’t make much use of your handy work, but I promise that I’ll keep it in pristine condition. Speaking of pristine, how are Prota and the shop? I bet you’re taking wonderful care of them. I don’t have any doubt that you’re the best person to protect them. Do I need to remind you how appreciative of that I am? Probably not. Anyway, I’m off to England next. That’s where the blacksmiths recommended. They said many of the soldiers here talked about strange weapons from the island across the sea. I plan to take a look for myself!
Until we speak again,
Hades
***
Hades held the sword in his hands. He could feel the power pulsing off the blade as he held it. This was a powerful sword, one that only the person who is truly worthy of it should wield. And Hades knew it was not he who should wield such a sword. The blade had been forged with a mixture of his own blood and Chronos’s blood. This would allow for the blade to only be removed when the time was right by its proper wielder. Hades’s grip tightened on the hilt of the golden sword, the sunset reflecting off its blade. Such a beautiful sword would have to be given a name worthy of its beauty. Hades ran his fingers down the long blade and decided the name would come to him when it was time. Hades shouldered the sword then picked up its twin from the nearby table. Hades began to walk through the deep forests, heading towards an obscure lake. Chronos’s words echoed within his ears as he walked.
“Forge two blades, exactly alike, except for one be infused with a water mage’s blood and the other forged with a combination of your blood and mine. Throw the first sword into the large lake near the forgery. It will resurface when its time has come. Then take the other to the hill just outside the forest. There you will find a stone. Stab the sword into the stone. But beware, once the sword has entered that stone, only the one it is destined to be pulled by will be able to retrieve it. This means even you, the man whose blood forged the blade, will not be able to pull the sword back out from its prison.”
Hades frowned a little. He did not like the idea of just throwing away two powerful swords. However, it was by a time mage’s orders, and if there was one thing Hades remembered from all the lessons he had learned from Beatus, it was that you did not disobey a time mage. So, with a heavy sigh, Hades approached the lake’s edge. He stared into the clear waters, watching them swish back and forth, then lifted the sword from his shoulder. He looked at the gems in its hilt, ensuring it was the correct one, then threw the sword with all his might. The golden sword spun through the air, as if slicing through everything that dared to stop it. However, upon reaching the center of the lake, the sword stopped, blade facing down, and shot into the lake. Shortly after, the ground shook a little, but it would be barely noticeable to a non-earth mage.
Hades raised his eyebrows a little. That had not been what he had been expecting when he had been instructed to throw a magical sword into a lake. If Hades was honest, he was a little disappointed. He had been halfway hoping a giant hand would come out of the lake and catch the sword. Oh well, maybe next time. Hades snorted to himself. The thought of this becoming a regular thing was quite amusing. Hades looked back over the lake and suddenly a name popped into his head. He closed his eyes and drew in a breath, then said,
“Excalibur.” A sharp wind blew past the lake, rippling the surface. When Hades reopened his eyes, the lake seemed brighter than before. “As if by magic,” Hades mumbled. He lifted the other sword back onto his shoulder and turned his back on the lake. Hades resumed his trek through the forest. Light shone through the trees and it was quite the beautiful sight, the greens and yellows reflecting onto the path below. The winds danced through the branches like ballerinas and, if he closed his eyes, Hades thought he could hear the music they were dancing to. Hades began to whistle a short tune as he walked, meant to merely entertain him as he performed his work. It was a shame Beatus wouldn’t be able to see these swords. They were, by far, Hades’s best work so far.
Slowly, the forest faded away into the distance, replaced by a large hill. Hades saw the stone atop the hill, the place where this sword would stand until its day to be drawn. Hades began to the short climb up to the top. The stone did not seem as impressive as Hades had imagined, but sometimes the most humble of things are the most impressive. Hades lifted the the second sword off his shoulder and stared at it. It shone brightly in the sunlight and brought a smile to Hades’s lips. For whatever reason, just holding this blade made him feel like whomever would eventually come to use it would care for it as best as they could. Hades gripped the hilt with both hands and held it over the stone. Hades closed his eyes and focused before plunging the blade into the stone. The stone put up no resistance, seeming to slice through butter, then suddenly stopped. Hades opened his eyes and tugged on the blade, but unlike before it no longer moved easily. Hades released the hilt, satisfied with his work, and as he stared at the golden sword, a name came to his lips.
“Caliburn.”
***
The sun beat down on Hades’s back. The earth mage exhaled heavily as sweat ran down his forehead. A bead dropped down his nose and plummeted to the ground below, a sizzling sound quickly following. It was hot, burning up. It felt like flames were constantly scorching Hades’s skin. How could the sand mages stand this stuff? It was so hot and the connection to the earth here was so… scratchy. It was painful, almost, to try and connect here. It was the first time Hades was truly tempted to use that space ring to skip this horrible journey. Hades shook his head a little and sighed. No, the city he was looking for couldn’t be too much further. So Hades kept on walking as the sun climbed high into the sky. The temperature rose with the sun, and Hades began to feel worse as he trekked on. It became so bad, Hades believe he could hear a battle going on nearby.
“Wait.” Hades wiped the sweat out of his eyes and squinted. In the distance he was sure he could see a city, but there was a siege going on! Hades frowned and held his hand above his eyes, allowing them to adjust a little easier to the light. He could see a flag waving in the air with a familiar emblem. Where had he seen an emblem before? Hades was sure he had seen it before. Then it hit him. How could he not recognize that emblem! “King Iskander!” Hades shifted his bag on his back and put his right hand on the hilt of the sword strapped to his belt, then took off running in the direction of the battle. The sounds of the war grew louder as Hades approached quickly and he had never been more grateful for the shoes made of Light’s blood. A journey that probably would have taken him hours took Hades mere seconds. He slid to a stop just out of range of the battle, no one casting him a sparing glance. That would suit him just fine.
Hades drew his xiphos from its sheath and spun it between his fingers on his left hand. Hades looked at the short blade and smiled. Of all the blades he had ever crafted, this was his favorite to fight with. Hades spotted a soldier not too far away from him not bearing Iskander’s crest. Hades charged and plunged his blade into the man’s chest. He was dead before he could cry out. Before the first man’s body could hit the ground, two other men were dead. Other soldiers began to take notice of this light footed warrior. A few of Iskander’s fighters recognized the blacksmith and cheered at his arrival. Hades darted into a cluster of enemy soldiers, slicing through them like it was nothing. Hades landed on the balls of his feet, his xiphos out to his side. The few remaining soldiers took a few steps back then retreated across the battlefield. Hades felt someone clap him on his shoulder and glanced up to see one of the soldiers from Iskander’s side.
“Hades! It’s good to see you, man. Did King Iskander send for you?” Hades shook his head but before he could get a word out the other soldiers all came up to him.
“Hades, you never told me you were such a skilled fighter! You have to teach me how to move like that sometime.”
“Dude, that’s an awesome xiphos you’ve got there. Did you make that?”
Hades’s head darted back and forth between different people as they all bombarded him with questions at the same time. It was a bit overwhelming, but Hades felt happy to be praised for his fighting skills. He wasn’t much of a fighter, but when you’re friends with a Talwar user, you tend to pick up a few things here and there.
“Come on everyone, give the boy some space. You’re overwhelming him.” Hades’s eyes widened in surprise and his head snapped in the direction of the voice as a grin split across his face. He knew that voice! He’d be a fool not to recognize it!
“King Iskander!” Hades exclaimed as the tall man approached him. The hearty man laughed and returned Hades’s grin with a broad smile of his own.
“Hades, my boy, how are you doing? I have to say, when I heard from Beatus that you had left the stop to take a journey, I was initially worried. You never seemed like the type to survive out in the world beyond what you knew. But look at you! You just took out roughly eight men with only a few strikes. I have to say, I’m sorry I didn’t pick you up as a soldier when I had the chance.” Hades’s mouth dropped open at that. King Iskander had been worried about him? And he liked his fighting style? This had to be the best day of his life!
“Th-Thank you, King Iskander!” Hades bowed a little then straightened back up. “I will admit, I have missed forging weapons for your armies these past few months, but I feel like I need to affirm myself before I continue working. If that means I travel until I die, then so be it. Hopefully it will not come to that, but I intend to find the answers to the questions I have before I return to smithing for good.” King Iskander placed a hand on Hades’s shoulder and gave the earth mage a reassuring nod.
“I understand, Hades. You always seemed like something was troubling you whenever you were smithing weapons in your store. Part of life is finding the answers to the questions that plague you, and if that means leaving behind everything, even for just a little while, then so be it. I’m proud that you were able to gather the courage to do so.” King Iskander laughed a little and opened his arms wide. “We could all learn a thing or two from you, Hades. You are truly a brave man, and I respect you for it. Say, since you helped us win this battle, how about staying to celebrate with us.”
“Yeah, Hades!” a few of the soldiers called out. “You saved our asses back there! It can’t hurt to take one night off your journey to celebrate with us.” Hades glanced around before laughing a little.
“Well since you insist.” Cheers erupted from the crowd. Hades sheathed his xiphos and was quickly escorted back to the campsite not too far away. The rest of the day and for most of the night, a party was thrown in Hades’s honor. It wasn’t the first time Hades had ever had alcohol, but it was the first time he had drank it in excess, resulting in him being a little fuzzy on the whole event after his third cup of Iskander’s finest wine. When morning finally arrived, all the soldiers set out for another battle, but Hades insisted he could not go on with them. He had a journey to continue on.
“I understand, Hades,” King Iskander said. He smiled and let out a hearty laugh. “I cannot make you stay. Just make sure that by the time your journey ends, you’ll have found the answers you’re searching for. All right?” King Iskander held out his hand to Hades. Hades’s eyes widened and he nodded, taking King Iskander’s hand and shaking it.
“I promise!” Hades proclaimed. Then a thought occurred to him. “Oh, King Iskander?”
“Yes, Hades?” Hades opened his bag and pulled out a group of scrolls that he had written over the past few days.
“I was wondering if you could deliver this these to Beatus for me. He hasn’t heard from me since I entered the desert and I promised I’d send to him as soon as I could. I think it would help him relax a little to know I’m all right.” King Iskander looked at the group of scrolls before laughing and taking them all.
“Of course, my boy! I’d be happy to!” King Iskander signaled to a nearby soldier and handed the scrolls to him. “Have these delivered to Hades’s forge for him.”
“Yes sir!” The soldier said, putting the scrolls into a bag. King Iskander looked at Hades and rubbed his chin.
“Anything else I can do for you, my boy?” Before Hades could answer, King Iskander snapped his fingers. “Ah! I know. You said you’ve been walking everywhere, yes?”
“Yes sir,” Hades said, unsure of where King Iskander was going with this. King Iskander signaled to another soldier and instructed,
“Bring out, Nyctaeus.” The soldier scurried off and returned moments later with a tall horse, its coat black as night. It was a beautiful steed and Hades couldn’t take his eyes off of it. King Iskander smiled when he noticed Hades’s reaction to the horse. “I take it you like him?” Hades looked back at King Iskander and realized what he was about to do.
“Oh, King Islander! I couldn’t! He’s such a beautiful horse. He must be worth so much to you.”
“And he will be worth even more to you. Besides, I have Bucephalus. That is the only horse I need. I’m sure Nyctaeus will be of much more use to you than I.” Hades looked back at the horse. Their eyes met and Nyctaeus snorted, as if to say he approved of Hades. Or maybe disapproved. Hades didn’t speak horse. That was Artemis’s job.
Hades walked over to the black stallion and pat his neck. The horse knelt down obediently and Hades mounted the horse’s back. Instantly, Nyctaeus rose and it felt like Hades was ten feet tall now. He had ridden horses before but never one this big. It felt nice, powerful, even. King Iskander let out a jolly laugh and nodded.
“That horse is a fine fit for you, Hades. Best of luck on your journey! Hopefully you’ll be back crafting weapons for me soon!” Hades smiled and nodded his thanks to King Iskander.
“And best of luck to you as well, King Iskander. May your reign be prosperous and eternal.” Hades took hold of Nycteus’s reigns and snapped them. With that, the earth mage left the battle behind, taking with him a new friend on his journey, a smile on his face, and a renewed strength that he was doing the right thing.
***
Several residents looked up as hooves thundered down the stone path. They recognized the rider and knew the cause of his return, even though he was several weeks late. The horse slid to a stop in front of a blacksmith shop and the rider dismounted. Beatus looked up as Hades rushed in. Beatus quickly dropped the tools he was holding and allowed Hades to grab his shoulders.
“Please tell me it isn’t true.” Hades pleaded, tears rising in his eyes. “I just left them not all that long ago. This has to be rumor. He looked so well then.” Beatus did not say anything, just merely shook his head and looked away. Hades collapsed to the floor and choked out a sob.
Neither mage had envisioned Hades’s first return from his journey to be something like this. However, the return had been inevitable when the unfortunate news had reached Hades’s ears. King Iskander the Great had passed away.
Beatus lowered himself down to the floor alongside Hades and pulled the young man into a hug, allowing him to sob into his shoulder. A crowd was growing outside the shop, the residents recognizing Hades and most figuring out why he had returned so suddenly. It was not hard to figure out, especially since the news of the king’s unfortunate death had reached the village many weeks before anyway. Hades let out another loud sob and clung to Beatus tightly, all his memories of the king flashing through his mind.
“I never got to ask him,” Hades choked out. “I had the chance and never asked him about his sword.” Tears trickled down Hades’s face and he shivered a little. “I didn’t get to keep my promise to him. I told him I’d be back soon to craft weapons for him again. B-But he’s gone…” Beatus just rubbed Hades’s back silently, letting him get all his mourning out. The villagers began to depart as well, understanding what Hades was feeling, as they had done the same not too long before. After a few minutes, Beatus stopped rubbing Hades’s back and tapped his shoulder. Hades pulled back a little and locked eyes with Beatus.
“I got something for you.” Beatus released Hades and stood up. He walked into the back of the forgery and returned a moment later with something wrapped in cloth. “Not long after you left the shop, King Iskander came around asking about you. Apparently he had heard about your departure and was worried if you were okay. I explained everything to him and, knowing that you might not get the chance to ask him yourself, I asked him for you. King Iskander said that Kopis was something he treasured, not because of how much it cost to make it, but because of all that it was. Kopis was filled with the memories of every battle King Iskander had ever been in and had been forged by the best blacksmith King Iskander had ever known. He treasured it and made sure to keep it safe because of these reasons. He did not care how much it cost to create such a sword, because this sword meant much more to him than any money could buy.” Beatus offered Hades a smile. “So, it looks like you were right.” Beatus looked down at the cloth wrapped object and continued, “When I told King Iskander why I was asking, he seemed touched and gave me an offer I could not refuse. He told me that when he could no longer fight and the sword that he had been blessed to carry needed a new owner, he would send it to the shop, knowing someone who cared for it deeply would be sure to care for it, as he did.” Beatus held out the object to Hades. “It came a few days ago.”
Hades’s eyes widened and he quickly took the object. Hades untied the strings holding the cloth in place and allowed them to fall away, revealing the gleaming blade of King Iskander’s sword, Kopis. Tears rose in Hades’s eyes and he clutched the sword close. King Iskander was truly a kind man, and no one better would ever exist in this world again, but Hades would ensure the memory of this great king would continue on for ages to come, if only by continuing to use the sword that King Iskander had used himself.
***
“You’re sure you can save him?” Hades looked up at Life then back at his horse. Nyctaeus had contracted something bad in the past few days and every doctor that had checked him out had said he would not survive the week. Hades was heartbroken. Nyctaeus was his traveling companion and had been his gift from King Iskander. He could not just let this horse go now, not after all they had been through. That’s when Life came into play.
“Do I love pancakes?” Life asked. She bent down to the horse and placed her hands on his neck. Nyctaeus backed away. He was wary of Life, never having met her before.
“Nyctaeus! It’s okay. She’s here to help you.” Nyctaeus looked at Hades before allowing Life to touch him. Life’s hands glowed a little and Nyctaeus visibly relaxed. He neighed a little and his body began to fill out again until he looked as healthy as he had when King Iskander had given him to Hades. Hades watched in amazement. He looked up at Life and she smiled.
“Congratulations,” she said. Hades cocked his head to the side.
“On what?” he asked Life. Life laughed a little and gestured to Nyctaeus.
“Nyctaeus is officially your animal companion. He is immortal like you and will not die before you.” Hades looked back at Nyctaeus and his eyes widened.
“Y-You can do that?” he asked.
“Of course,” Life said. “Actually, the earth mages already have a companion animal, a wolf named Rascal. You just haven’t met him, but he’s been keeping an eye on you.” Another animal? A wolf? Rascal?
“He… has?” Hades began to looked around. He had never noticed a wolf watching over him. That was a bit weird, if Hades was honest.
“Oh yes. Rascal has travelled with you through all your journeys. He's just been hidden from you.”
“What? Why?”
“Rascal was sent away by the previous earth mage right before she died and told to stay away until she said for him to return. Except, she died and never gave the order to return, so Rascal has been the obedient wolf that he is and stayed away just as ordered.” Hades looked up at Life and frowned. That was heartbreaking. This poor wolf had been following him from afar for hundreds of years and following his previous master for who knows how many years prior. It was quite the saddening thought.
“Well where is he now?” Life looked around then whistled. There were a few moments of silence then a soft padding of paws entered the barn. Hades’s head turned to the door of the stall as an old timber wolf stopped in front of the door. His eyes locked with Hades and they stared at one another for what seemed like years. Finally, Rascal stepped closer to Hades and sat down in front of him.
“Well, will you allow him to be your companion too?” Life asked Hades. Hades reached out and scratched the wolf behind the ears.
“Yes, I will. Come on, Rascal. It’ll be me, you, and Nyctaeus against the world.”
***
Hades led Nyctaeus and Rascal down the unfamiliar terrain of the lone island country known as Japan. The ocean view was breathtaking, and if Hades squinted he could see the land from which he just came. Still, he had heard of a unique sword crafting style here and had decided to put that space ring to use, finally, by teleporting here. So here he was, travelling down the mountainous land of Japan.
So far everything had been quiet. It was a little frightening, if Hades was honest. Unlike all the other places Hades had travelled, this land was much different in every way so far. There were animals, plants, and land formations that Hades had never seen before. All very unfamiliar scenery to him, and that meant him escaping trouble would be that much more difficult. Still, there was no way this land was uninhabited. The legends of the sword crafting would not exist if this land was unpopulated, yet so far Japan was proving him wrong.
Nyctaeus rubbed Hades’s shoulder and Hades sighed. It was growing late even though it did not feel like it was. The sun was almost set and soon it would be hard to see. Hades had to find shelter for the night. He nodded to Rascal and Nyctaeus, then mounted the pure black horse. He urged Nyctaeus on down the hill. That had been a mistake.
It was only because of Hades’s quick reflexes that an arrow did not embed itself into his head. Hades ducked out of the way of the projectile and instinctively drew his xiphos. Rascal went into attack mode, jumping in front of Nyctaeus, his gray fur bristling and fangs gleaming in the sunset. The heads of the three twisted back and forth as they watched their surroundings, attempting to figure out exactly where the attack came from. Hades’s head snapped to the left when the glimmer of an arrow head caught his eye. Hades sheathed his xiphos and lifted his hands into the air.
“Please, stop, I mean you no harm. I am merely a traveller seeking refuge.” Either these people did not understand Hades or just did not care about what he had to say, since it wasn’t long before another two arrows were sent his way. Hades managed to dodge one but the other lodged into his shoulder. Hades cried out in pain and glanced down as his green blood flowed from the wound. Rascal and Nyctaeus looked back at Hades but he waved them both off. “I’m fine.” He pulled the arrow out and yelped in pain before throwing the arrow down.
A man rose up from a nearby hill and shouted at Hades. He pointed at the earth mage then signaled for him to get down from his horse. Hades sighed and dismounted Nyctaeus. He lifted his hands above his head and walked towards the man. Two other warriors jumped out from their hiding spots and ran over to Hades. They shouted at him in a strange language, grabbed his hands, and forced them behind his back. Hades was going to comply quietly until he heard Nyctaeus cry out. Hades looked over his shoulder and saw the horse being yanked by the bridle.
“Hey! Stop that! He doesn’t like it!” Hades yelled, wrenching free from the two men that had been holding him. Hades pushed the man holding Nyctaeus to the ground and put his hands up to his horse as Nyctaeus rose up on his hind legs. “Nyctaeus! No! Calm down. You’re fine, boy. You’re fine.” Nyctaeus bucked and pulled at Hades but eventually calmed down. Hades sighed with relief and pat Nyctaeus’s side. “Okay.” Hades turned around to see three swords pointed at him. Hades lifted his hands into the air again and said, “It’s okay, gents, he was just scared.” Hades glared at the man on the ground. “Don’t do that again or else he might kick you.” The men just stared at Hades, just like they had before. Yeah, they can’t understand him.
And then the Lord sent Hades a savior.
A woman rode up on a small brown horse, calling out in the strange language they all seemed to be very familiar with. The men all looked at her in confusion then all lowered their weapons. They quickly stepped out of her way and the woman rode right up to Hades. She dismounted her horse and said something to him in that strange language. Hades quickly shook his head and made a gesture symbolizing he had no idea what she was saying. The woman’s eyes widened and she paused. She spoke again, in a different but still foreign language to Hades. Hades shook his head again and then spoke up,
“I’m sorry, I don’t understand what you are saying.” The woman paused for a second then her eyes widened.
“Can you understand me now?” Hades quickly nodded.
“It's a little difficult because of your accent, but yes I can understand you.” The woman looked at Hades’s horse and wolf then turned back to the boy.
“These warriors wished to know why you trespassed into our territory without giving a signal or indication of peace prior to.” Hades stared at the woman before looking at the warriors behind her.
“That's what they wanted? Oops. Sorry, I'm not from this area so I am not familiar with your customs.” That was the wrong answer.
“How are you not aware? You should have passed through this point to reach the forest.” That explained the lack of civilization. Before Hades could get a word out to respond, the woman’s eyes narrowed at him and she hissed out. “You're not a Yokai are you?”
“Um…” Yokai? That was not a term Hades was familiar with. However, given the reaction of the woman and warriors behind her to the word, it could not be anything good. Hades shook his head. “I don't believe so.”
Hades and the woman both turned when they heard one of the male warriors shout. He and the woman conversed in the strange foreign language for a few minutes. After they finished, the men turned and went back to their stations. The woman faced Hades again and let out a long sigh.
“It's getting dark. We can't stay here. Whether you're a Yokai or not, the night is dangerous to all creatures. I will bring you back to our village, but my people will not trust you because of your strange appearance and somewhat foreign language. You and your companions will have to be locked up for the night, if that is all right.” Hades had noticed his distinctly different appearance from the natives. He could see why that might unsettle some people. It was a just proposition.
“All right. I understand. Just, allow me to lead my horse. He doesn't trust many people, neither does my wolf. They're wary around people they have never met before and I do not think someone else handling either of them will end well.” The woman leaned around Hades and looked at the two animals behind them. She nodded then said,
“As you wish.” Hades turned around to Nyctaeus and grabbed tight on his bridle. Hades signaled to Rascal as well and the wolf’s fangs hid themselves followed by his fur flattening on his back. Hades turned back to the woman and said,
“Lead the way.”
It was not that far of a journey to the aforementioned village, but that may have been because the party escorting him was definitely rushing to reach the perimeter before nightfall. The place was fairly primitive looking, wooden houses and farming plots as far as the eye could see. It was vastly different from the impressive empires that Hades had viewed in his travels so far, but also humbling. Such a quaint place meant that the people all knew one another and respected one another. It was not like a kingdom where people were lucky know the person down the street.
The escort led Hades through the village. Hades kept his eyes ahead, trained on the back of the woman’s head, but he could still feel the curious gazes cast his way. In the center of the town was a large wooden building. Hades was led around back where they opened the large doors to reveal jail cells. Hades led Nyctaeus inside, Rascal following close behind. There was a loud slam as the doors shut behind them. The three were alone in a jail cell and it was not the most promising of views, but Hades was going to comply whether he liked it or not.
By the time the outer door opened again, Hades and Nyctaeus were fast asleep, Rascal keeping watch. The wolf growled and the approaching person, only to stop upon recognizing her scent. It was the woman that had saved them from the attacking warriors. She approached the cell and opened the door. Rascal stood up but made no move towards her as she laid down a tray of food, a clump of hay, and some raw meat. Rascal approached her cautiously, sniffed the meat, then took it, turning back to his post to eat. The woman watched the sleeping Hades for a minute. The boy was apparently exhausted from his journey, curled up in a tight ball against Nycteaus’s belly. He was very strange looking. Hades had hair of an almost gold color and peach colored skin. He was much leaner in frame than the men of the village, yet he had seemed so powerful when he had calmed down his horse. He was very strange. No matter. Today he would be tested, and if this boy turned out to be a Yokai, then most likely killed.
The woman stood up, cast one last look at the sleeping Hades, then turned and left the jail. Hades sniffed the air and his eyes opened at the smell of the food. Hades quickly scrambled over and ate everything the plate had to offer. He always did have a large appetite. Even now, Hades was still a little hungry. Rascal watched the earth mage with faint amusement, well, as much as a wolf can show anyway. Hades looked around the cell. His eyes were adjusted to the darkness now and he could see the details of the cell fairly well now. It was all wood, every bit of it. He could easily break through if he really wanted, but Hades had no intentions of doing that. The woman from before had been so kind, he would only use his powers as a last resort. Hades laid back on the comfortable straw, folding his arms behind his head and crossing his right knee over his other leg. Hades sighed and stared at the ceiling. What he wouldn’t do for something to mess with right now. Hades snorted at the thought, picked up a piece of straw and placed it between his lips.
“You look comfortable,” Hades looked up at the familiar voice. He hadn’t heard the woman reenter. Perhaps she had never left. All was possible. Hades sat up and scratched the back of his head, giving a wry smile.
“Ah yeah. It is actually quite peaceful, I kind of like it. I’m usually in such a rush, I don’t get time like this very often. Still, I imagine after some time like this, I would get bored very quickly. Thankfully I have someone here who can speak back to me when I speak to them.” A thought suddenly occurred to Hades. He looked at the woman with the confusion plain on his face. “Speaking of which, how can you understand and speak my language? No one else I’ve met so far seems to be able to.” The woman laughed a little and pushed herself into a standing position.
“Well, I am not originally from this village actually. I am from another village in Japan, but when I was a mere child they were attacked by raiders. I was kidnapped and sold into slavery. I travelled through a variety of different lands, your home land being one of them. As a result, I can speak, read, and write a variety of languages.”
“So, how did you return here?” Hades asked. In his experience, slaves normally did not return to their homelands. Then again, they were usually illiterate too. The woman gave him a mocking smile and put a finger to her lips.
“Now I can’t tell you all my secrets. Secrets give people power and you do not deserve to have any more power over me.” That was a fair counter. This woman was smarter than Hades gave her credit for. Still, there was something… off about this woman. Her aura was different than those around her. Maybe it was just his unfamiliarity with the area and its people, but Hades could swear she had the aura of… well he was not sure, but there was no way this was a human’s aura.
“So then, if it is not to share your life’s story, then why are you here?” The woman walked over to the door of his cell and then glanced back at the door to the jail.
“I’ll share with you when they are ready for you.” What? Hades frowned but decided it better to not respond this time. He looked down at his lap and thought over the day before, in case it could give him any indication of what he might be heading into. Then it occurred to him.
“You’ll be testing to see if I am a Yokai, yes?” The woman raised her eyebrows and a smile played at her lips.
“Excellent guess. You recalled our conversation from yesterday?”
“Just briefly,” Hades replied, mimicking the woman’s mocking smile. Hades felt a nudge against his arm and saw Rascal there. Rascal stood up and stretched, then gestured with his head to the woman. Hades gave a short nod, signaling he sensed it too. So he wasn’t just imagining it, this woman did have an unusual aura. Before Hades could start to ask a question, though, the door to the jail cell opened with a bang. Hades jumped and Rascal immediately set on the offensive, until Hades placed his hand on the wolf’s back. The woman looked over as the man at the door grunted at her in that language of theirs. He gestured to Hades then exited. The woman looked at Hades.
“All right, time to go. I’ll see you when you return.”
“You’re not coming to watch?”
“We had an… incident a few years back. Long story short, the dogs were supposed to be observing someone else and instead ended up attacking me. They think it best I not observe anymore.” That was… strange. He hoped these dogs did not attack him. He was not a Yokai, he didn’t think, but oh well. He just needed his ring worse case.
The woman opened Hades’s jail cell and two warriors were waiting outside to escort Hades, Rascal, and Nyctaeus to the center of town. Hades spotted the dogs not too far away, all watching him with a close eye. The villagers weren’t much better. Everyone appeared to be armed, which was always the most calming thing when faced with relieving your existence. The three immortals made their way into what Hades could only guess to be some sort of demon trap, given the runes and stuff on the ground. The three were very still as the dogs were stationed around the demon trap. One man motioned to the men holding the dogs, then yelled out a loud command. Everyone released their dogs at once.
The dogs all approached the trio with caution, circling and sniffing carefully. Hades would be lying if he said this was not nerve racking. But, for whatever reason, the villagers seemed to relax more the longer he did not react to the dogs. Did the dogs have some sort of effect on Yokai? Suddenly one of the dogs sat down. Quickly all the rest followed. Gasps ran across the crowd and immediately everyone fell to their knees in a bow to Hades. Well this was new.
“U-Um… what?” One of the men cautiously cast a glance upwards and Hades quickly signaled for him to stand. The man called out to the others and they all rose. Immediately cheers broke out amongst the village and everyone scattered, leaving Hades even more confused than ever before. What the Elysium was going on? The entire village seemed to have left him alone now, so Hades began to walk back to the jail. The woman poked her head out of the jail right as Hades approached.
“It sounds like a party out here. What happened?” she asked upon seeing Hades. Hades shrugged.
“You’ve got me. The dogs just sat down and then everyone bowed and then did this and I’m so confused!” The woman opened her mouth to respond, hesitated in thought, then asked,
“They sat down?”
“Yes. What does that mean and don’t bow please,” Hades said, seeing the woman move to bow. She sighed and smiled a little.
“It means you’re a celestial being. A deity. Why did you not tell me?” Hades opened his mouth to reply when he caught something flash in the woman’s eyes. He paused. She knew. This woman, he wasn’t sure how, but somehow, she knew he was not a deity. No point in lying then.
“Um… because I’m not one? I’m no… Japanese deity or whatever. I’m just a regular old guy from another country.” The woman paused then nodded.
“I thought not. Most deities are not as… humble in presentation. But it is quite curious how a traveller could survive a trip so close to Aokigahara.” A chill ran up Hades’s spine. He had been warned of this place before. Hades had not realized he had tread so close to the infamous forest. The suicide forest, said to be infested with demons. No one who entered ever returned. “I take it you were unaware that you were so close to Aokigahara,” the woman said. Hades quickly nodded.
“Indeed. Had I known I would have taken more care to stay as far away from it as I could. I have no intentions on seeing if the tales of its horror are true or not.” This seemed to reassure the woman. Before she could respond, however, the sounds of celebration grew louder. She glanced around him and sighed.
“Well, I guess we have a celebration to attend to. Shall we head on?” The woman began to walk off but Hades caught her arm. She looked over her shoulder at him. “What?”
“I’m Hades, pleasure to meet you.” The woman hesitated then replied,
“Pleasure to meet you, Hades, I am Inari.”
***
Dear Beatus,
I apologize for not writing in so long. Time certainly flies when you’re having fun, and that’s just what I have been doing. I am writing this to impart to you some good and bad news. The bad news is, I have made my decision to end my journey here for the time being. While I never imagined it this way, Japan has turned out much more to my liking than I initially expected, and for multiple reasons. The first is, their swords. Japan has a unique style of sword making that I have witnessed nothing like before. They layer the metal instead of filling molds. It is truly quite fascinating and I want to master it before I leave this place. The swords they make look fairly flimsy compared to what we use, but they are truly much stronger than most of the swords I have ever used. It is a very impressive weapon, to say the least. The second reason connects to the good news. On my first day in Japan, a woman saved my life. She was the only person who spoke my language and saved me from having to deal with trying to escape Japan without revealing my powers. Almost right off the bat, we could both sense that neither of us were quite human. It was not until a few months ago that I realized why I felt that way about her. She’s not human. See, when I was first captured by the Japanese, they were concerned I was something called a Yokai. Yokai are essentially demons but much craftier and can be a variety of things. They’re truly fascinating creatures and while I only encountered a few while I stayed in the village, I noticed that their aura was similar to the one the woman gave off, but hers was still different. A few months ago, I witnessed why. Ever heard of Aokigahara? It’s a forest that looms near the village. It’s filled with demons, yokai, and restless spirits trying to pass on. Supposedly those who enter never return. Well, it was twilight, on the eve of a festival meant to ward off these spirits to protect the village from their wrath. As a sacrifice, the village offered a fox, which seemed to bother Inari greatly. The demons, yokai, and spirits burst forth to take the offering until the fox became so scared, it turned into a young man with nine tails. He tried to scramble into the village, but the wards would not let him pass through, resulting in his crying out for Inari instead. He begged for her to save him and, in the end, she caved, fighting back the creatures of Aokigahara to protect the fox boy. As it turns out, Inari is also a yokai, but more specifically a yokai goddess. She had been living in the village a while now in secret, watching over the people and protecting them. Yeah, Inari was no longer very pleased with them. Long story short, she almost destroyed the village. But I saved it! Hooray! And I know you’ll believe me because I did it by being a man and asserting my authority and you’re not believing any of this are you? No in reality I just managed to calm her down but I kind of had to do it through revealing I was a mage. The village still thinks I’m one of their deities though so there’s a plus. And the good news is we’re getting married now! So if you could send out invitations to everyone that’d be awesome.
Hope to see you soon,
Hades.
***
“The baby’s crying again. It's your turn.” Hades groaned and sat up. He rubbed his eyes then glanced to the side at his lovely wife. Hades leaned down and kissed Inari’s forehead, causing her to smile, then he slipped out of bed. Hades walked over to the crib across the hall and leaned down so that he could see the sleeping child. He smiled, lit a nearby candle, then picked up the child and began to rock him. Hades began to sing to the little boy, trying to get him to sleep.
“Sleep, who takes the little ones
come, take this one too.
Young - so young I gave it to you,
grown-up bring it back to me.
Tall as a high mountain,
straight as a cypress tree.
And its branches outstretched
to the East and West.”
By the time Hades was finished, his son was fast asleep, the Greek lullaby having soothed him. Hades smiled and kissed the baby’s forehead, then replaced the child in its crib. He let out a contented sigh and began to stand up, when suddenly the candle went out.
“I think it best you come quietly. Wouldn't want anything to happen to that wife and child of yours now would you?” Hades froze. His eyes flicked to the side and he could barely catch a glimpse of the mystery speaker. Someone had broken into their house, and they had come for him. Hades narrowed his eyes and mentally willed the earth to open and swallow this man, but nothing happened. Hades did not feel the usual tingle that he felt when he used his powers, and the man took notice of this. He let out a loud laugh and gave Hades an evil smile. “Trying to use your powers? Too bad, they don't work in my presence. After all, I am a Blocker.” Hades’s heart stopped. That couldn't be right! The currently blocker was in India if Hades remembered correctly. And also a girl. How did she become a guy and get to Japan?
“You can't be the Blocker,” Hades whispered. “The Blocker right now isn't-”
“I never said I was the Blocker from your time.” Hades swallowed roughly. He was from the future. That explained it. Hades let out a sigh. He reached back down and kissed his child’s forehead, then looked at the Blocker.
“All right, I'll come with you.”
“Excellent.”
The duo exited the house quietly, leaving behind all the Hades had come to love. They walked through the darkness of the village and soon they were leaving the village. It was the first time since he had arrived that Hades had been outside after dark. The rumors and warnings of the different Yokai flashed through Hades’s mind. Was it just him or did Aokigahara look more terrifying than usual? It was as Hades’s thoughts raced that something caught his eye. A fox. It was watching Hades and the Blocker with attentive eyes. Hades pretended to cough and gave the fox a nod back towards his house. The fox got the message and was gone in a flash. Not even the Blocker seemed to have noticed it.
The two did not stop once they exited the village, nor did they stop when they reached the edge of Aokigahara. No, they ventured inside the forbidden forest. Chills crept up Hades’s spine at every sound. The forest was much creepier inside than out and Hades was sure he could hear the spirits of the angry dead around him.
“What are we doing here?” Hades managed to squeak out. He was terrified beyond belief and wished to go back to his bedroom with his lovely wife and son as soon as possible.
“Isn't it obvious? I'm here to kill you.” No, in fact, that was not very obvious at all!
“What!” Hades began to turn around when the feeling of cold metal kissed the skin of his neck.
“Keep moving or else I'll make your death even more painful than it needs to be.” Hades snorted in disgust but turned and continued to walk. He could only hope that the fox from before was able to get Inari in time.
It seemed like hours before Hades and the Blocker stopped walking. Everything looked the same, the only difference being some of the sunlight that had begun to poke through the trees, but given how little there was, Hades could not tell the time of day by it. It did not matter, anyway, because as soon as Hades thought he might be able to figure it out, the two reached a clearing. It was unusual though. The clearing was still covered by trees completely, leaving the sky to be unseen and in the center of the field was a shrine. Hades frowned as he tried to figure out what it was for but the Blocker pushed him forward towards it.
“Get down on your knees in front of the shrine,” he instructed. Hades sighed and walked over to the shrine. He began to get down when something caught his eye. Before the Blocker could react, Hades drew the Japanese sword stabbed into the ground next to the shrine and slashed across the Blocker’s chest. The man stumbled back, surprised, but the wound did not seem to phase him much. He charged at Hades and their swords clanged. Hades frowned as the sound echoed in his ears. What kind of sword was that? He didn't recognize the echo of the metal! Hades pushed back and laughed.
“Guess you didn't expect me to fight back huh? That's your mistake! Now that we're alone I have nothing to lose. It's just you and me.” The Blocker let out a low growl and then charged at Hades again. Hades quickly blocked the attack and dealt another quick blow to the Blocker, this time to his side. This pattern continued for several attacks, Hades both stalling for time and hoping to get a chance to escape. Things were starting to look up as Hades dealt more and more blows, but he got cocky, and that was always Hades’s downfall in fights. The Blocker knew this.
As the fight drew on, the Blocker noted that Hades’s blocks were becoming sloppier and his attacks riskier. The Blocker quickly memorized Hades’s attack pattern and waited for the time to strike. Hades thrust forward and the Blocker quickly spun out of the way, catching the earth mage off guard. Before he could move, the Blocker lunged forward with his own sword.
***
Beatus stared at the fallen sword in confusion. Everyone in the shop had froze when Prota had clattered against the ground so suddenly. Beatus calmly put down what he was doing and walked over to the fallen sword. He reached down to pick it up when a man stepped forward.
“Wait, is that not the first sword Hades ever forged?” Beatus gave a short nod. “Where is he now?”
“The continent of Japan. Why?” The man swallowed then answered,
“They say the only time a blacksmith’s first sword touches the ground is when he has met the ground himself.” Beatus furrowed his brow in confusion before it hit him. Beatus quickly picked up Prota and placed it back on its mount.
“I'm sorry. The shop is closed for the rest of the day. I need to check on Hades.” The people nodded in understanding and left. Beatus fled to the back of the shop, picked up a space ring, and teleported to the village’s edge. He ran into the village and quickly began to search for a house. It did not take him long to find it and dread clamped on his heart. Beatus ran up to the house, Inari and a fox outside. The fox was trying to comfort Inari as she rocked her child back and forth, but it was no use, she just kept crying. The two looked up as Beatus approached and the fox looked back down then shook his head.
“I'm sorry,” the fox said, “He went into Aokigahara. No one in the village is brave enough to enter the forest to see if he's alive. Hades is as good as dead.” Beatus looked at Inari then said,
“I'll go. If you'll come with me, I'll go.” The fox looked uncomfortable but he cast a gaze at Inari then nodded.
“All right, let's go then.” The two began to walk off when Beatus felt a tug on his sleeve. He turned around to see Inari.
“I'm coming with you.” Beatus gave her an accepting nod. The four made their way to the forest, Aokigahara looking as foreboding as ever. The fox seemed increasingly uncomfortable, but this did not stop him. He entered the forest first, followed by Beatus, and then Inari and her son. The four ventured into the forest and followed the fox’s lead. Beatus had known that if he wanted to get through Aokigahara, he would need a guide, and this fox, as a Yokai himself, was obviously familiar with the route. It seemed like mere minutes before they reached a clearing. At first, everything seemed normal. It was just a regular clearing except for the shrine in the middle. The fox stepped back a little and covered his nose, causing Beatus to raise his eyebrows. Beatus looked back at the shrine and noticed a sword coated in blood sticking out of the ground, and by it, a hand.
“No…” Beatus ran to the shrine and covered his mouth. On the opposing side of the shrine was Hades’s dead body, a peaceful look on his face. If not for the obvious stab wound in his chest, Beatus would have mistaken Hades for being asleep, but he knew better. Beatus didn't seem to notice as Inari and the fox appeared at his side. His attention was focused on Hades. Beatus shook his head and his hands clenched into fists. Beatus fell to his knees and took one of Hades’s hands into his own, then placing the hand on Hades’s chest. Beatus did the same with Hades’s other hand then looked back at the sword. It was placed oddly, backwards to the way they were usually stood in the ground. This way the characters on the blade read ‘Katana.’
“What?” Beatus replied, eying Hades with a slightly annoyed look. Hades continued to stare at the weapon in his hands, his brown eyes focused on the glimmering blade that shown of brilliant steel.
“The way these weapons are treated. I mean, I understand some people treat them with respect. King Iskander is a great example of this. But…” Hades glanced away from the blade and looked at Beatus. “I see soldiers every day. Their weapons crying out in pain as they clash and break. Their wielders show no remorse, discarding the lives of their swords, bows, and arrows behind as if they were nothing more than tools of war to them.” Beatus sighed. They had talk quite often and it seemed the answer would never make it through Hades’s thick skull.
“Hades, people like King Iskander are rare. They treasure their weapons because they value the weapon that has brought them so many victories. But their weapons usually hold a large amount of monetary value as well. I think it’s possible with many people who value their weapons, it’s more for the money they spent on having them forged than on the memorabilia factor.” Hades’s expression fell a little. Beatus didn’t like belittling Hades’s hero. King Iskander was a great man after all, but this was something Hades needed to understand. If that meant attacking his idol, then so be it. “Think about it, Hades, how much did King Iskander pay you to forge Kopis?” Hades remained silent for a moment before sighing.
“A lot. Three sacks of jewels and gold coins,” Hades admitted. Beatus nodded and gestured to the sword in Hades’s hand.
“Exactly. He probably takes such good care of Kopis because it cost quite a bit of money to create the weapon. The same would be true with any other blade crafted at the same price.” Hades’s grip tightened on the hilt of the sword and his jaw tightened. He calmly placed the sword on the table in front of him and let out a stiff sigh.
“How dare you accuse him of such lowly beliefs!” Hades snapped at Beatus. “King Iskander is a great man. He treasures his blade as if it were his own child. I can tell by the way he handles it. He and the blade are one, as it should be.” Hades held his hand out and clutched the air as if he were holding the hilt of a sword. “A man and his sword, they are one. The sword is the extension of the man and his beliefs. They fight together to accomplish a goal. They are a team.” Hades looked at Beatus with a sour look. “Why can’t you understand that?”
“Hades, calm down. I am just trying to make you understand the beliefs of the soldiers in this time. Neither of us can truly judge why King Iskander takes care of his blade. It could be for the monetary value or it could be because he believes as you do, that the sword is an extension of himself. Both are viable options. Unless you can ask him yourself, you will never know and neither will I.” This did not seem to aid the situation very much, but Hades did not seem as angry as before. Hades let out a low sigh and stared at his hand in the air.
“I am unsure if I should continue to be a blacksmith,” he said quietly. “I do not like seeing my creations destroyed, their screams echoing in my ears as I watch them break by the hands of people who do not truly care for them.”
“Life manages,” Beatus replied calmly. Hades glanced back at Beatus, a look of confusion plastered on his face. “You have to remember, that woman founded the human race. Besides the original mages, every single individual on this planet is her descendant. Can you imagine what she feels whenever they go to war and she has to watch her creations be destroyed, their screams echoing in her ears as she watches them break by the hands of people who do not truly care for them?” Beatus paused to let that sink in then added, “She probably feels something similar to what you’re feeling right now. But does that stop her from continuing to have children? No. I swear every time I see that woman she’s pregnant.” Hades snorted and shook his head.
“That’s not a fair comparison. She can’t help it. She’s as horny as they come. Life will continue to do what she does until she dies. I can stop though.” Beatus walked over a placed a hand on Hades’s shoulder.
“Can you, Hades? The way you always talk about blacksmithing, I doubt that you really can.” Hades shrugged Beatus’s hand off his shoulder and crossed his arms. He could and he would. Unlike Life, he couldn’t tolerate this agony any longer. Beatus saw the resolution in Hades’s eyes and sighed. “All right, if that is your choice. But just think how disappointed all the people whom you have made weapons for will be when they find out you’ve stopped making them.” Hades bit his lip then replied,
“Don’t give me that.” He looked up at Beatus with narrow eyes. “How can I be sure they won’t make my creations suffer too? The only person who truly values their lives is me, it seems.” Hades reached out and picked up the sword on the table in front of him. “And if that is true, then it should be only I that wields the blades I forge.”
“You can’t be sure of that, Hades,” Beatus protested in his ever calm voice. “You never can. But neither can I, and I can’t stand the abuse of my own creations either.” Hades looked at Beatus in confusion.
“Then how can you stand seeing them destroyed?” Hades asked. “I thought, you of all people, would see my side of things as well.”
“Because there are people who will take care of them. Not everyone lets them, our creations, get damaged like the way many others do.” Hades paused in thought. Beatus was correct in that aspect. King Iskander certainly was a great example of this. While his motives were unknown to either mage, that did not change the fact that he still treasured his weapon and treated it as if it were his closest friend. Was it possible that there truly were others like that? An idea occurred to Hades and he paused.
“I have an idea. But, it might cause me to be away from this forge for a long time, possibly forever. Is that okay, Beatus?”
“It’s not my call, though, I personally think that would be a problem. Leaving would leave this area without your expertise, but if that’s what you feel you must do, I cannot stop you and will not try,” Beatus explained, a smile brushing his lips. Hades looked at Beatus then nodded.
“I understand and I’ll come back as soon as I can. But I think… I think I need to take a journey. I need to find these other people that think like we do. I want to see how other people treat their weapons and how other smiths cope with the loss of their creations. It will be a training journey for me.” Hades looked back at the wall, where the first sword Hades had ever forged was mounted. It looked terrible, an absolute wreck of a sword that would break if ever taken into battle. But Hades’s father had been so proud of it at the time. He claimed it was the best sword he had ever seen. Hades had not understood why at the time. In fact, the earth mage had been sobbing over how bad it was compared to the swords his father forged. But now, Hades thought he had a grasp as to why it was the best sword. It was the first sword Hades had ever forged. The first sword forged by a blacksmith was the most important sword he would ever create. It would be a disgrace to not continue to honor that sword.
“I understand, Hades.” Beatus squeezed Hades’s shoulder and gave him a reassuring smile. “I went on a journey as well when I faced the same issue. Everybody should go on a journey when it comes to that crucial point in their life, whether it be a physical or spiritual one. That is why I said I could not and would not stop you. You know you need to take this journey, so I will let you.” Beatus looked away for a second before sighing. “Though, with you gone, who will protect me from Aphrodite?” Hades cracked into laughter and pat Beatus on his back.
“I’m sure you’ll be fine. But if you’re really are worried, I’m sure Haruka would be fine with staying here to watch out for you. He is the Visions Mage after all,” Hades proposed. Beatus smiled and shook his head.
“I appreciate the offer, but you know as well as I do that he tends to disappear and reappear every few millennium.” Hades nodded and shrugged, as if to suggest that he wasn’t sure what else could be done. He looked up at the sword one more time then asked,
“Beatus, could you do me a favor?” Beatus looked at Hades then followed his gaze to the sword. “Could you watch Prota for me while I am gone? It’s my most prized possession, but I do not think Prota could survive the journey I plan on taking. So, could you watch it for me? At least until we meet again?” Beatus looked at Hades for a second before quickly looking back at the sword.
“Of course, Hades. Prota means a lot to you. I’ll watch it for you for as long as you’ll allow me.” Hades smiled and looked at Beatus.
“Good, then I know Prota’s in good hands. I can be at ease for part of my journey.” Hades looked around the shop then sighed. “Well, I guess I better finish up today’s orders then I’ll pack tonight and set out tomorrow.”
“All right. I'll help you with those orders so you can have more time to pack. How does that sound?” Hades’s eyes lit up and he nodded vicariously.
“All right! Let's get to work!”
***
’Dear Beatus,
By the time this reaches you, I will have probably already let where I have sent this from, so if you want to reply, best to send it through one of the other mages. I am currently visiting the Roman Republic. It's a nice place that's prospering. Very peaceful. It's quite refreshing from all the war bent empires that arise in current times. That's not to say that it's not at war, but when I visit here, it seems like it isn't. I hope it stays this way. I've met quite a few blacksmiths here. They were all happy to learn from me and I from them. The weapons here are so different from anything I've ever made before. It was very interesting to see how they were made. They have these unique spears called pikes and a few more swords. Whenever we meet again I have to show you how they're made! Maybe then we can give King Iskander some new weapons! Oh man, I get excited just thinking of how proud he'd be!
It's difficult out here though. I'm so used to having your company around that it's a bit hard not having someone to talk to beside me. I'd ask you come meet and join me, but I don't trust anyone else with running the shop or protecting Prota. Maybe I can try to stop by for a visit soon. I do still have that space ring you gave me after all. I have to say though, it’s more fun to walk somewhere than it is to just teleport. I might just walk everywhere from now on unless it’s really necessary to teleport. Sorry that I won’t make much use of your handy work, but I promise that I’ll keep it in pristine condition. Speaking of pristine, how are Prota and the shop? I bet you’re taking wonderful care of them. I don’t have any doubt that you’re the best person to protect them. Do I need to remind you how appreciative of that I am? Probably not. Anyway, I’m off to England next. That’s where the blacksmiths recommended. They said many of the soldiers here talked about strange weapons from the island across the sea. I plan to take a look for myself!
Until we speak again,
Hades
***
Hades held the sword in his hands. He could feel the power pulsing off the blade as he held it. This was a powerful sword, one that only the person who is truly worthy of it should wield. And Hades knew it was not he who should wield such a sword. The blade had been forged with a mixture of his own blood and Chronos’s blood. This would allow for the blade to only be removed when the time was right by its proper wielder. Hades’s grip tightened on the hilt of the golden sword, the sunset reflecting off its blade. Such a beautiful sword would have to be given a name worthy of its beauty. Hades ran his fingers down the long blade and decided the name would come to him when it was time. Hades shouldered the sword then picked up its twin from the nearby table. Hades began to walk through the deep forests, heading towards an obscure lake. Chronos’s words echoed within his ears as he walked.
“Forge two blades, exactly alike, except for one be infused with a water mage’s blood and the other forged with a combination of your blood and mine. Throw the first sword into the large lake near the forgery. It will resurface when its time has come. Then take the other to the hill just outside the forest. There you will find a stone. Stab the sword into the stone. But beware, once the sword has entered that stone, only the one it is destined to be pulled by will be able to retrieve it. This means even you, the man whose blood forged the blade, will not be able to pull the sword back out from its prison.”
Hades frowned a little. He did not like the idea of just throwing away two powerful swords. However, it was by a time mage’s orders, and if there was one thing Hades remembered from all the lessons he had learned from Beatus, it was that you did not disobey a time mage. So, with a heavy sigh, Hades approached the lake’s edge. He stared into the clear waters, watching them swish back and forth, then lifted the sword from his shoulder. He looked at the gems in its hilt, ensuring it was the correct one, then threw the sword with all his might. The golden sword spun through the air, as if slicing through everything that dared to stop it. However, upon reaching the center of the lake, the sword stopped, blade facing down, and shot into the lake. Shortly after, the ground shook a little, but it would be barely noticeable to a non-earth mage.
Hades raised his eyebrows a little. That had not been what he had been expecting when he had been instructed to throw a magical sword into a lake. If Hades was honest, he was a little disappointed. He had been halfway hoping a giant hand would come out of the lake and catch the sword. Oh well, maybe next time. Hades snorted to himself. The thought of this becoming a regular thing was quite amusing. Hades looked back over the lake and suddenly a name popped into his head. He closed his eyes and drew in a breath, then said,
“Excalibur.” A sharp wind blew past the lake, rippling the surface. When Hades reopened his eyes, the lake seemed brighter than before. “As if by magic,” Hades mumbled. He lifted the other sword back onto his shoulder and turned his back on the lake. Hades resumed his trek through the forest. Light shone through the trees and it was quite the beautiful sight, the greens and yellows reflecting onto the path below. The winds danced through the branches like ballerinas and, if he closed his eyes, Hades thought he could hear the music they were dancing to. Hades began to whistle a short tune as he walked, meant to merely entertain him as he performed his work. It was a shame Beatus wouldn’t be able to see these swords. They were, by far, Hades’s best work so far.
Slowly, the forest faded away into the distance, replaced by a large hill. Hades saw the stone atop the hill, the place where this sword would stand until its day to be drawn. Hades began to the short climb up to the top. The stone did not seem as impressive as Hades had imagined, but sometimes the most humble of things are the most impressive. Hades lifted the the second sword off his shoulder and stared at it. It shone brightly in the sunlight and brought a smile to Hades’s lips. For whatever reason, just holding this blade made him feel like whomever would eventually come to use it would care for it as best as they could. Hades gripped the hilt with both hands and held it over the stone. Hades closed his eyes and focused before plunging the blade into the stone. The stone put up no resistance, seeming to slice through butter, then suddenly stopped. Hades opened his eyes and tugged on the blade, but unlike before it no longer moved easily. Hades released the hilt, satisfied with his work, and as he stared at the golden sword, a name came to his lips.
“Caliburn.”
***
The sun beat down on Hades’s back. The earth mage exhaled heavily as sweat ran down his forehead. A bead dropped down his nose and plummeted to the ground below, a sizzling sound quickly following. It was hot, burning up. It felt like flames were constantly scorching Hades’s skin. How could the sand mages stand this stuff? It was so hot and the connection to the earth here was so… scratchy. It was painful, almost, to try and connect here. It was the first time Hades was truly tempted to use that space ring to skip this horrible journey. Hades shook his head a little and sighed. No, the city he was looking for couldn’t be too much further. So Hades kept on walking as the sun climbed high into the sky. The temperature rose with the sun, and Hades began to feel worse as he trekked on. It became so bad, Hades believe he could hear a battle going on nearby.
“Wait.” Hades wiped the sweat out of his eyes and squinted. In the distance he was sure he could see a city, but there was a siege going on! Hades frowned and held his hand above his eyes, allowing them to adjust a little easier to the light. He could see a flag waving in the air with a familiar emblem. Where had he seen an emblem before? Hades was sure he had seen it before. Then it hit him. How could he not recognize that emblem! “King Iskander!” Hades shifted his bag on his back and put his right hand on the hilt of the sword strapped to his belt, then took off running in the direction of the battle. The sounds of the war grew louder as Hades approached quickly and he had never been more grateful for the shoes made of Light’s blood. A journey that probably would have taken him hours took Hades mere seconds. He slid to a stop just out of range of the battle, no one casting him a sparing glance. That would suit him just fine.
Hades drew his xiphos from its sheath and spun it between his fingers on his left hand. Hades looked at the short blade and smiled. Of all the blades he had ever crafted, this was his favorite to fight with. Hades spotted a soldier not too far away from him not bearing Iskander’s crest. Hades charged and plunged his blade into the man’s chest. He was dead before he could cry out. Before the first man’s body could hit the ground, two other men were dead. Other soldiers began to take notice of this light footed warrior. A few of Iskander’s fighters recognized the blacksmith and cheered at his arrival. Hades darted into a cluster of enemy soldiers, slicing through them like it was nothing. Hades landed on the balls of his feet, his xiphos out to his side. The few remaining soldiers took a few steps back then retreated across the battlefield. Hades felt someone clap him on his shoulder and glanced up to see one of the soldiers from Iskander’s side.
“Hades! It’s good to see you, man. Did King Iskander send for you?” Hades shook his head but before he could get a word out the other soldiers all came up to him.
“Hades, you never told me you were such a skilled fighter! You have to teach me how to move like that sometime.”
“Dude, that’s an awesome xiphos you’ve got there. Did you make that?”
Hades’s head darted back and forth between different people as they all bombarded him with questions at the same time. It was a bit overwhelming, but Hades felt happy to be praised for his fighting skills. He wasn’t much of a fighter, but when you’re friends with a Talwar user, you tend to pick up a few things here and there.
“Come on everyone, give the boy some space. You’re overwhelming him.” Hades’s eyes widened in surprise and his head snapped in the direction of the voice as a grin split across his face. He knew that voice! He’d be a fool not to recognize it!
“King Iskander!” Hades exclaimed as the tall man approached him. The hearty man laughed and returned Hades’s grin with a broad smile of his own.
“Hades, my boy, how are you doing? I have to say, when I heard from Beatus that you had left the stop to take a journey, I was initially worried. You never seemed like the type to survive out in the world beyond what you knew. But look at you! You just took out roughly eight men with only a few strikes. I have to say, I’m sorry I didn’t pick you up as a soldier when I had the chance.” Hades’s mouth dropped open at that. King Iskander had been worried about him? And he liked his fighting style? This had to be the best day of his life!
“Th-Thank you, King Iskander!” Hades bowed a little then straightened back up. “I will admit, I have missed forging weapons for your armies these past few months, but I feel like I need to affirm myself before I continue working. If that means I travel until I die, then so be it. Hopefully it will not come to that, but I intend to find the answers to the questions I have before I return to smithing for good.” King Iskander placed a hand on Hades’s shoulder and gave the earth mage a reassuring nod.
“I understand, Hades. You always seemed like something was troubling you whenever you were smithing weapons in your store. Part of life is finding the answers to the questions that plague you, and if that means leaving behind everything, even for just a little while, then so be it. I’m proud that you were able to gather the courage to do so.” King Iskander laughed a little and opened his arms wide. “We could all learn a thing or two from you, Hades. You are truly a brave man, and I respect you for it. Say, since you helped us win this battle, how about staying to celebrate with us.”
“Yeah, Hades!” a few of the soldiers called out. “You saved our asses back there! It can’t hurt to take one night off your journey to celebrate with us.” Hades glanced around before laughing a little.
“Well since you insist.” Cheers erupted from the crowd. Hades sheathed his xiphos and was quickly escorted back to the campsite not too far away. The rest of the day and for most of the night, a party was thrown in Hades’s honor. It wasn’t the first time Hades had ever had alcohol, but it was the first time he had drank it in excess, resulting in him being a little fuzzy on the whole event after his third cup of Iskander’s finest wine. When morning finally arrived, all the soldiers set out for another battle, but Hades insisted he could not go on with them. He had a journey to continue on.
“I understand, Hades,” King Iskander said. He smiled and let out a hearty laugh. “I cannot make you stay. Just make sure that by the time your journey ends, you’ll have found the answers you’re searching for. All right?” King Iskander held out his hand to Hades. Hades’s eyes widened and he nodded, taking King Iskander’s hand and shaking it.
“I promise!” Hades proclaimed. Then a thought occurred to him. “Oh, King Iskander?”
“Yes, Hades?” Hades opened his bag and pulled out a group of scrolls that he had written over the past few days.
“I was wondering if you could deliver this these to Beatus for me. He hasn’t heard from me since I entered the desert and I promised I’d send to him as soon as I could. I think it would help him relax a little to know I’m all right.” King Iskander looked at the group of scrolls before laughing and taking them all.
“Of course, my boy! I’d be happy to!” King Iskander signaled to a nearby soldier and handed the scrolls to him. “Have these delivered to Hades’s forge for him.”
“Yes sir!” The soldier said, putting the scrolls into a bag. King Iskander looked at Hades and rubbed his chin.
“Anything else I can do for you, my boy?” Before Hades could answer, King Iskander snapped his fingers. “Ah! I know. You said you’ve been walking everywhere, yes?”
“Yes sir,” Hades said, unsure of where King Iskander was going with this. King Iskander signaled to another soldier and instructed,
“Bring out, Nyctaeus.” The soldier scurried off and returned moments later with a tall horse, its coat black as night. It was a beautiful steed and Hades couldn’t take his eyes off of it. King Iskander smiled when he noticed Hades’s reaction to the horse. “I take it you like him?” Hades looked back at King Iskander and realized what he was about to do.
“Oh, King Islander! I couldn’t! He’s such a beautiful horse. He must be worth so much to you.”
“And he will be worth even more to you. Besides, I have Bucephalus. That is the only horse I need. I’m sure Nyctaeus will be of much more use to you than I.” Hades looked back at the horse. Their eyes met and Nyctaeus snorted, as if to say he approved of Hades. Or maybe disapproved. Hades didn’t speak horse. That was Artemis’s job.
Hades walked over to the black stallion and pat his neck. The horse knelt down obediently and Hades mounted the horse’s back. Instantly, Nyctaeus rose and it felt like Hades was ten feet tall now. He had ridden horses before but never one this big. It felt nice, powerful, even. King Iskander let out a jolly laugh and nodded.
“That horse is a fine fit for you, Hades. Best of luck on your journey! Hopefully you’ll be back crafting weapons for me soon!” Hades smiled and nodded his thanks to King Iskander.
“And best of luck to you as well, King Iskander. May your reign be prosperous and eternal.” Hades took hold of Nycteus’s reigns and snapped them. With that, the earth mage left the battle behind, taking with him a new friend on his journey, a smile on his face, and a renewed strength that he was doing the right thing.
***
Several residents looked up as hooves thundered down the stone path. They recognized the rider and knew the cause of his return, even though he was several weeks late. The horse slid to a stop in front of a blacksmith shop and the rider dismounted. Beatus looked up as Hades rushed in. Beatus quickly dropped the tools he was holding and allowed Hades to grab his shoulders.
“Please tell me it isn’t true.” Hades pleaded, tears rising in his eyes. “I just left them not all that long ago. This has to be rumor. He looked so well then.” Beatus did not say anything, just merely shook his head and looked away. Hades collapsed to the floor and choked out a sob.
Neither mage had envisioned Hades’s first return from his journey to be something like this. However, the return had been inevitable when the unfortunate news had reached Hades’s ears. King Iskander the Great had passed away.
Beatus lowered himself down to the floor alongside Hades and pulled the young man into a hug, allowing him to sob into his shoulder. A crowd was growing outside the shop, the residents recognizing Hades and most figuring out why he had returned so suddenly. It was not hard to figure out, especially since the news of the king’s unfortunate death had reached the village many weeks before anyway. Hades let out another loud sob and clung to Beatus tightly, all his memories of the king flashing through his mind.
“I never got to ask him,” Hades choked out. “I had the chance and never asked him about his sword.” Tears trickled down Hades’s face and he shivered a little. “I didn’t get to keep my promise to him. I told him I’d be back soon to craft weapons for him again. B-But he’s gone…” Beatus just rubbed Hades’s back silently, letting him get all his mourning out. The villagers began to depart as well, understanding what Hades was feeling, as they had done the same not too long before. After a few minutes, Beatus stopped rubbing Hades’s back and tapped his shoulder. Hades pulled back a little and locked eyes with Beatus.
“I got something for you.” Beatus released Hades and stood up. He walked into the back of the forgery and returned a moment later with something wrapped in cloth. “Not long after you left the shop, King Iskander came around asking about you. Apparently he had heard about your departure and was worried if you were okay. I explained everything to him and, knowing that you might not get the chance to ask him yourself, I asked him for you. King Iskander said that Kopis was something he treasured, not because of how much it cost to make it, but because of all that it was. Kopis was filled with the memories of every battle King Iskander had ever been in and had been forged by the best blacksmith King Iskander had ever known. He treasured it and made sure to keep it safe because of these reasons. He did not care how much it cost to create such a sword, because this sword meant much more to him than any money could buy.” Beatus offered Hades a smile. “So, it looks like you were right.” Beatus looked down at the cloth wrapped object and continued, “When I told King Iskander why I was asking, he seemed touched and gave me an offer I could not refuse. He told me that when he could no longer fight and the sword that he had been blessed to carry needed a new owner, he would send it to the shop, knowing someone who cared for it deeply would be sure to care for it, as he did.” Beatus held out the object to Hades. “It came a few days ago.”
Hades’s eyes widened and he quickly took the object. Hades untied the strings holding the cloth in place and allowed them to fall away, revealing the gleaming blade of King Iskander’s sword, Kopis. Tears rose in Hades’s eyes and he clutched the sword close. King Iskander was truly a kind man, and no one better would ever exist in this world again, but Hades would ensure the memory of this great king would continue on for ages to come, if only by continuing to use the sword that King Iskander had used himself.
***
“You’re sure you can save him?” Hades looked up at Life then back at his horse. Nyctaeus had contracted something bad in the past few days and every doctor that had checked him out had said he would not survive the week. Hades was heartbroken. Nyctaeus was his traveling companion and had been his gift from King Iskander. He could not just let this horse go now, not after all they had been through. That’s when Life came into play.
“Do I love pancakes?” Life asked. She bent down to the horse and placed her hands on his neck. Nyctaeus backed away. He was wary of Life, never having met her before.
“Nyctaeus! It’s okay. She’s here to help you.” Nyctaeus looked at Hades before allowing Life to touch him. Life’s hands glowed a little and Nyctaeus visibly relaxed. He neighed a little and his body began to fill out again until he looked as healthy as he had when King Iskander had given him to Hades. Hades watched in amazement. He looked up at Life and she smiled.
“Congratulations,” she said. Hades cocked his head to the side.
“On what?” he asked Life. Life laughed a little and gestured to Nyctaeus.
“Nyctaeus is officially your animal companion. He is immortal like you and will not die before you.” Hades looked back at Nyctaeus and his eyes widened.
“Y-You can do that?” he asked.
“Of course,” Life said. “Actually, the earth mages already have a companion animal, a wolf named Rascal. You just haven’t met him, but he’s been keeping an eye on you.” Another animal? A wolf? Rascal?
“He… has?” Hades began to looked around. He had never noticed a wolf watching over him. That was a bit weird, if Hades was honest.
“Oh yes. Rascal has travelled with you through all your journeys. He's just been hidden from you.”
“What? Why?”
“Rascal was sent away by the previous earth mage right before she died and told to stay away until she said for him to return. Except, she died and never gave the order to return, so Rascal has been the obedient wolf that he is and stayed away just as ordered.” Hades looked up at Life and frowned. That was heartbreaking. This poor wolf had been following him from afar for hundreds of years and following his previous master for who knows how many years prior. It was quite the saddening thought.
“Well where is he now?” Life looked around then whistled. There were a few moments of silence then a soft padding of paws entered the barn. Hades’s head turned to the door of the stall as an old timber wolf stopped in front of the door. His eyes locked with Hades and they stared at one another for what seemed like years. Finally, Rascal stepped closer to Hades and sat down in front of him.
“Well, will you allow him to be your companion too?” Life asked Hades. Hades reached out and scratched the wolf behind the ears.
“Yes, I will. Come on, Rascal. It’ll be me, you, and Nyctaeus against the world.”
***
Hades led Nyctaeus and Rascal down the unfamiliar terrain of the lone island country known as Japan. The ocean view was breathtaking, and if Hades squinted he could see the land from which he just came. Still, he had heard of a unique sword crafting style here and had decided to put that space ring to use, finally, by teleporting here. So here he was, travelling down the mountainous land of Japan.
So far everything had been quiet. It was a little frightening, if Hades was honest. Unlike all the other places Hades had travelled, this land was much different in every way so far. There were animals, plants, and land formations that Hades had never seen before. All very unfamiliar scenery to him, and that meant him escaping trouble would be that much more difficult. Still, there was no way this land was uninhabited. The legends of the sword crafting would not exist if this land was unpopulated, yet so far Japan was proving him wrong.
Nyctaeus rubbed Hades’s shoulder and Hades sighed. It was growing late even though it did not feel like it was. The sun was almost set and soon it would be hard to see. Hades had to find shelter for the night. He nodded to Rascal and Nyctaeus, then mounted the pure black horse. He urged Nyctaeus on down the hill. That had been a mistake.
It was only because of Hades’s quick reflexes that an arrow did not embed itself into his head. Hades ducked out of the way of the projectile and instinctively drew his xiphos. Rascal went into attack mode, jumping in front of Nyctaeus, his gray fur bristling and fangs gleaming in the sunset. The heads of the three twisted back and forth as they watched their surroundings, attempting to figure out exactly where the attack came from. Hades’s head snapped to the left when the glimmer of an arrow head caught his eye. Hades sheathed his xiphos and lifted his hands into the air.
“Please, stop, I mean you no harm. I am merely a traveller seeking refuge.” Either these people did not understand Hades or just did not care about what he had to say, since it wasn’t long before another two arrows were sent his way. Hades managed to dodge one but the other lodged into his shoulder. Hades cried out in pain and glanced down as his green blood flowed from the wound. Rascal and Nyctaeus looked back at Hades but he waved them both off. “I’m fine.” He pulled the arrow out and yelped in pain before throwing the arrow down.
A man rose up from a nearby hill and shouted at Hades. He pointed at the earth mage then signaled for him to get down from his horse. Hades sighed and dismounted Nyctaeus. He lifted his hands above his head and walked towards the man. Two other warriors jumped out from their hiding spots and ran over to Hades. They shouted at him in a strange language, grabbed his hands, and forced them behind his back. Hades was going to comply quietly until he heard Nyctaeus cry out. Hades looked over his shoulder and saw the horse being yanked by the bridle.
“Hey! Stop that! He doesn’t like it!” Hades yelled, wrenching free from the two men that had been holding him. Hades pushed the man holding Nyctaeus to the ground and put his hands up to his horse as Nyctaeus rose up on his hind legs. “Nyctaeus! No! Calm down. You’re fine, boy. You’re fine.” Nyctaeus bucked and pulled at Hades but eventually calmed down. Hades sighed with relief and pat Nyctaeus’s side. “Okay.” Hades turned around to see three swords pointed at him. Hades lifted his hands into the air again and said, “It’s okay, gents, he was just scared.” Hades glared at the man on the ground. “Don’t do that again or else he might kick you.” The men just stared at Hades, just like they had before. Yeah, they can’t understand him.
And then the Lord sent Hades a savior.
A woman rode up on a small brown horse, calling out in the strange language they all seemed to be very familiar with. The men all looked at her in confusion then all lowered their weapons. They quickly stepped out of her way and the woman rode right up to Hades. She dismounted her horse and said something to him in that strange language. Hades quickly shook his head and made a gesture symbolizing he had no idea what she was saying. The woman’s eyes widened and she paused. She spoke again, in a different but still foreign language to Hades. Hades shook his head again and then spoke up,
“I’m sorry, I don’t understand what you are saying.” The woman paused for a second then her eyes widened.
“Can you understand me now?” Hades quickly nodded.
“It's a little difficult because of your accent, but yes I can understand you.” The woman looked at Hades’s horse and wolf then turned back to the boy.
“These warriors wished to know why you trespassed into our territory without giving a signal or indication of peace prior to.” Hades stared at the woman before looking at the warriors behind her.
“That's what they wanted? Oops. Sorry, I'm not from this area so I am not familiar with your customs.” That was the wrong answer.
“How are you not aware? You should have passed through this point to reach the forest.” That explained the lack of civilization. Before Hades could get a word out to respond, the woman’s eyes narrowed at him and she hissed out. “You're not a Yokai are you?”
“Um…” Yokai? That was not a term Hades was familiar with. However, given the reaction of the woman and warriors behind her to the word, it could not be anything good. Hades shook his head. “I don't believe so.”
Hades and the woman both turned when they heard one of the male warriors shout. He and the woman conversed in the strange foreign language for a few minutes. After they finished, the men turned and went back to their stations. The woman faced Hades again and let out a long sigh.
“It's getting dark. We can't stay here. Whether you're a Yokai or not, the night is dangerous to all creatures. I will bring you back to our village, but my people will not trust you because of your strange appearance and somewhat foreign language. You and your companions will have to be locked up for the night, if that is all right.” Hades had noticed his distinctly different appearance from the natives. He could see why that might unsettle some people. It was a just proposition.
“All right. I understand. Just, allow me to lead my horse. He doesn't trust many people, neither does my wolf. They're wary around people they have never met before and I do not think someone else handling either of them will end well.” The woman leaned around Hades and looked at the two animals behind them. She nodded then said,
“As you wish.” Hades turned around to Nyctaeus and grabbed tight on his bridle. Hades signaled to Rascal as well and the wolf’s fangs hid themselves followed by his fur flattening on his back. Hades turned back to the woman and said,
“Lead the way.”
It was not that far of a journey to the aforementioned village, but that may have been because the party escorting him was definitely rushing to reach the perimeter before nightfall. The place was fairly primitive looking, wooden houses and farming plots as far as the eye could see. It was vastly different from the impressive empires that Hades had viewed in his travels so far, but also humbling. Such a quaint place meant that the people all knew one another and respected one another. It was not like a kingdom where people were lucky know the person down the street.
The escort led Hades through the village. Hades kept his eyes ahead, trained on the back of the woman’s head, but he could still feel the curious gazes cast his way. In the center of the town was a large wooden building. Hades was led around back where they opened the large doors to reveal jail cells. Hades led Nyctaeus inside, Rascal following close behind. There was a loud slam as the doors shut behind them. The three were alone in a jail cell and it was not the most promising of views, but Hades was going to comply whether he liked it or not.
By the time the outer door opened again, Hades and Nyctaeus were fast asleep, Rascal keeping watch. The wolf growled and the approaching person, only to stop upon recognizing her scent. It was the woman that had saved them from the attacking warriors. She approached the cell and opened the door. Rascal stood up but made no move towards her as she laid down a tray of food, a clump of hay, and some raw meat. Rascal approached her cautiously, sniffed the meat, then took it, turning back to his post to eat. The woman watched the sleeping Hades for a minute. The boy was apparently exhausted from his journey, curled up in a tight ball against Nycteaus’s belly. He was very strange looking. Hades had hair of an almost gold color and peach colored skin. He was much leaner in frame than the men of the village, yet he had seemed so powerful when he had calmed down his horse. He was very strange. No matter. Today he would be tested, and if this boy turned out to be a Yokai, then most likely killed.
The woman stood up, cast one last look at the sleeping Hades, then turned and left the jail. Hades sniffed the air and his eyes opened at the smell of the food. Hades quickly scrambled over and ate everything the plate had to offer. He always did have a large appetite. Even now, Hades was still a little hungry. Rascal watched the earth mage with faint amusement, well, as much as a wolf can show anyway. Hades looked around the cell. His eyes were adjusted to the darkness now and he could see the details of the cell fairly well now. It was all wood, every bit of it. He could easily break through if he really wanted, but Hades had no intentions of doing that. The woman from before had been so kind, he would only use his powers as a last resort. Hades laid back on the comfortable straw, folding his arms behind his head and crossing his right knee over his other leg. Hades sighed and stared at the ceiling. What he wouldn’t do for something to mess with right now. Hades snorted at the thought, picked up a piece of straw and placed it between his lips.
“You look comfortable,” Hades looked up at the familiar voice. He hadn’t heard the woman reenter. Perhaps she had never left. All was possible. Hades sat up and scratched the back of his head, giving a wry smile.
“Ah yeah. It is actually quite peaceful, I kind of like it. I’m usually in such a rush, I don’t get time like this very often. Still, I imagine after some time like this, I would get bored very quickly. Thankfully I have someone here who can speak back to me when I speak to them.” A thought suddenly occurred to Hades. He looked at the woman with the confusion plain on his face. “Speaking of which, how can you understand and speak my language? No one else I’ve met so far seems to be able to.” The woman laughed a little and pushed herself into a standing position.
“Well, I am not originally from this village actually. I am from another village in Japan, but when I was a mere child they were attacked by raiders. I was kidnapped and sold into slavery. I travelled through a variety of different lands, your home land being one of them. As a result, I can speak, read, and write a variety of languages.”
“So, how did you return here?” Hades asked. In his experience, slaves normally did not return to their homelands. Then again, they were usually illiterate too. The woman gave him a mocking smile and put a finger to her lips.
“Now I can’t tell you all my secrets. Secrets give people power and you do not deserve to have any more power over me.” That was a fair counter. This woman was smarter than Hades gave her credit for. Still, there was something… off about this woman. Her aura was different than those around her. Maybe it was just his unfamiliarity with the area and its people, but Hades could swear she had the aura of… well he was not sure, but there was no way this was a human’s aura.
“So then, if it is not to share your life’s story, then why are you here?” The woman walked over to the door of his cell and then glanced back at the door to the jail.
“I’ll share with you when they are ready for you.” What? Hades frowned but decided it better to not respond this time. He looked down at his lap and thought over the day before, in case it could give him any indication of what he might be heading into. Then it occurred to him.
“You’ll be testing to see if I am a Yokai, yes?” The woman raised her eyebrows and a smile played at her lips.
“Excellent guess. You recalled our conversation from yesterday?”
“Just briefly,” Hades replied, mimicking the woman’s mocking smile. Hades felt a nudge against his arm and saw Rascal there. Rascal stood up and stretched, then gestured with his head to the woman. Hades gave a short nod, signaling he sensed it too. So he wasn’t just imagining it, this woman did have an unusual aura. Before Hades could start to ask a question, though, the door to the jail cell opened with a bang. Hades jumped and Rascal immediately set on the offensive, until Hades placed his hand on the wolf’s back. The woman looked over as the man at the door grunted at her in that language of theirs. He gestured to Hades then exited. The woman looked at Hades.
“All right, time to go. I’ll see you when you return.”
“You’re not coming to watch?”
“We had an… incident a few years back. Long story short, the dogs were supposed to be observing someone else and instead ended up attacking me. They think it best I not observe anymore.” That was… strange. He hoped these dogs did not attack him. He was not a Yokai, he didn’t think, but oh well. He just needed his ring worse case.
The woman opened Hades’s jail cell and two warriors were waiting outside to escort Hades, Rascal, and Nyctaeus to the center of town. Hades spotted the dogs not too far away, all watching him with a close eye. The villagers weren’t much better. Everyone appeared to be armed, which was always the most calming thing when faced with relieving your existence. The three immortals made their way into what Hades could only guess to be some sort of demon trap, given the runes and stuff on the ground. The three were very still as the dogs were stationed around the demon trap. One man motioned to the men holding the dogs, then yelled out a loud command. Everyone released their dogs at once.
The dogs all approached the trio with caution, circling and sniffing carefully. Hades would be lying if he said this was not nerve racking. But, for whatever reason, the villagers seemed to relax more the longer he did not react to the dogs. Did the dogs have some sort of effect on Yokai? Suddenly one of the dogs sat down. Quickly all the rest followed. Gasps ran across the crowd and immediately everyone fell to their knees in a bow to Hades. Well this was new.
“U-Um… what?” One of the men cautiously cast a glance upwards and Hades quickly signaled for him to stand. The man called out to the others and they all rose. Immediately cheers broke out amongst the village and everyone scattered, leaving Hades even more confused than ever before. What the Elysium was going on? The entire village seemed to have left him alone now, so Hades began to walk back to the jail. The woman poked her head out of the jail right as Hades approached.
“It sounds like a party out here. What happened?” she asked upon seeing Hades. Hades shrugged.
“You’ve got me. The dogs just sat down and then everyone bowed and then did this and I’m so confused!” The woman opened her mouth to respond, hesitated in thought, then asked,
“They sat down?”
“Yes. What does that mean and don’t bow please,” Hades said, seeing the woman move to bow. She sighed and smiled a little.
“It means you’re a celestial being. A deity. Why did you not tell me?” Hades opened his mouth to reply when he caught something flash in the woman’s eyes. He paused. She knew. This woman, he wasn’t sure how, but somehow, she knew he was not a deity. No point in lying then.
“Um… because I’m not one? I’m no… Japanese deity or whatever. I’m just a regular old guy from another country.” The woman paused then nodded.
“I thought not. Most deities are not as… humble in presentation. But it is quite curious how a traveller could survive a trip so close to Aokigahara.” A chill ran up Hades’s spine. He had been warned of this place before. Hades had not realized he had tread so close to the infamous forest. The suicide forest, said to be infested with demons. No one who entered ever returned. “I take it you were unaware that you were so close to Aokigahara,” the woman said. Hades quickly nodded.
“Indeed. Had I known I would have taken more care to stay as far away from it as I could. I have no intentions on seeing if the tales of its horror are true or not.” This seemed to reassure the woman. Before she could respond, however, the sounds of celebration grew louder. She glanced around him and sighed.
“Well, I guess we have a celebration to attend to. Shall we head on?” The woman began to walk off but Hades caught her arm. She looked over her shoulder at him. “What?”
“I’m Hades, pleasure to meet you.” The woman hesitated then replied,
“Pleasure to meet you, Hades, I am Inari.”
***
Dear Beatus,
I apologize for not writing in so long. Time certainly flies when you’re having fun, and that’s just what I have been doing. I am writing this to impart to you some good and bad news. The bad news is, I have made my decision to end my journey here for the time being. While I never imagined it this way, Japan has turned out much more to my liking than I initially expected, and for multiple reasons. The first is, their swords. Japan has a unique style of sword making that I have witnessed nothing like before. They layer the metal instead of filling molds. It is truly quite fascinating and I want to master it before I leave this place. The swords they make look fairly flimsy compared to what we use, but they are truly much stronger than most of the swords I have ever used. It is a very impressive weapon, to say the least. The second reason connects to the good news. On my first day in Japan, a woman saved my life. She was the only person who spoke my language and saved me from having to deal with trying to escape Japan without revealing my powers. Almost right off the bat, we could both sense that neither of us were quite human. It was not until a few months ago that I realized why I felt that way about her. She’s not human. See, when I was first captured by the Japanese, they were concerned I was something called a Yokai. Yokai are essentially demons but much craftier and can be a variety of things. They’re truly fascinating creatures and while I only encountered a few while I stayed in the village, I noticed that their aura was similar to the one the woman gave off, but hers was still different. A few months ago, I witnessed why. Ever heard of Aokigahara? It’s a forest that looms near the village. It’s filled with demons, yokai, and restless spirits trying to pass on. Supposedly those who enter never return. Well, it was twilight, on the eve of a festival meant to ward off these spirits to protect the village from their wrath. As a sacrifice, the village offered a fox, which seemed to bother Inari greatly. The demons, yokai, and spirits burst forth to take the offering until the fox became so scared, it turned into a young man with nine tails. He tried to scramble into the village, but the wards would not let him pass through, resulting in his crying out for Inari instead. He begged for her to save him and, in the end, she caved, fighting back the creatures of Aokigahara to protect the fox boy. As it turns out, Inari is also a yokai, but more specifically a yokai goddess. She had been living in the village a while now in secret, watching over the people and protecting them. Yeah, Inari was no longer very pleased with them. Long story short, she almost destroyed the village. But I saved it! Hooray! And I know you’ll believe me because I did it by being a man and asserting my authority and you’re not believing any of this are you? No in reality I just managed to calm her down but I kind of had to do it through revealing I was a mage. The village still thinks I’m one of their deities though so there’s a plus. And the good news is we’re getting married now! So if you could send out invitations to everyone that’d be awesome.
Hope to see you soon,
Hades.
***
“The baby’s crying again. It's your turn.” Hades groaned and sat up. He rubbed his eyes then glanced to the side at his lovely wife. Hades leaned down and kissed Inari’s forehead, causing her to smile, then he slipped out of bed. Hades walked over to the crib across the hall and leaned down so that he could see the sleeping child. He smiled, lit a nearby candle, then picked up the child and began to rock him. Hades began to sing to the little boy, trying to get him to sleep.
“Sleep, who takes the little ones
come, take this one too.
Young - so young I gave it to you,
grown-up bring it back to me.
Tall as a high mountain,
straight as a cypress tree.
And its branches outstretched
to the East and West.”
By the time Hades was finished, his son was fast asleep, the Greek lullaby having soothed him. Hades smiled and kissed the baby’s forehead, then replaced the child in its crib. He let out a contented sigh and began to stand up, when suddenly the candle went out.
“I think it best you come quietly. Wouldn't want anything to happen to that wife and child of yours now would you?” Hades froze. His eyes flicked to the side and he could barely catch a glimpse of the mystery speaker. Someone had broken into their house, and they had come for him. Hades narrowed his eyes and mentally willed the earth to open and swallow this man, but nothing happened. Hades did not feel the usual tingle that he felt when he used his powers, and the man took notice of this. He let out a loud laugh and gave Hades an evil smile. “Trying to use your powers? Too bad, they don't work in my presence. After all, I am a Blocker.” Hades’s heart stopped. That couldn't be right! The currently blocker was in India if Hades remembered correctly. And also a girl. How did she become a guy and get to Japan?
“You can't be the Blocker,” Hades whispered. “The Blocker right now isn't-”
“I never said I was the Blocker from your time.” Hades swallowed roughly. He was from the future. That explained it. Hades let out a sigh. He reached back down and kissed his child’s forehead, then looked at the Blocker.
“All right, I'll come with you.”
“Excellent.”
The duo exited the house quietly, leaving behind all the Hades had come to love. They walked through the darkness of the village and soon they were leaving the village. It was the first time since he had arrived that Hades had been outside after dark. The rumors and warnings of the different Yokai flashed through Hades’s mind. Was it just him or did Aokigahara look more terrifying than usual? It was as Hades’s thoughts raced that something caught his eye. A fox. It was watching Hades and the Blocker with attentive eyes. Hades pretended to cough and gave the fox a nod back towards his house. The fox got the message and was gone in a flash. Not even the Blocker seemed to have noticed it.
The two did not stop once they exited the village, nor did they stop when they reached the edge of Aokigahara. No, they ventured inside the forbidden forest. Chills crept up Hades’s spine at every sound. The forest was much creepier inside than out and Hades was sure he could hear the spirits of the angry dead around him.
“What are we doing here?” Hades managed to squeak out. He was terrified beyond belief and wished to go back to his bedroom with his lovely wife and son as soon as possible.
“Isn't it obvious? I'm here to kill you.” No, in fact, that was not very obvious at all!
“What!” Hades began to turn around when the feeling of cold metal kissed the skin of his neck.
“Keep moving or else I'll make your death even more painful than it needs to be.” Hades snorted in disgust but turned and continued to walk. He could only hope that the fox from before was able to get Inari in time.
It seemed like hours before Hades and the Blocker stopped walking. Everything looked the same, the only difference being some of the sunlight that had begun to poke through the trees, but given how little there was, Hades could not tell the time of day by it. It did not matter, anyway, because as soon as Hades thought he might be able to figure it out, the two reached a clearing. It was unusual though. The clearing was still covered by trees completely, leaving the sky to be unseen and in the center of the field was a shrine. Hades frowned as he tried to figure out what it was for but the Blocker pushed him forward towards it.
“Get down on your knees in front of the shrine,” he instructed. Hades sighed and walked over to the shrine. He began to get down when something caught his eye. Before the Blocker could react, Hades drew the Japanese sword stabbed into the ground next to the shrine and slashed across the Blocker’s chest. The man stumbled back, surprised, but the wound did not seem to phase him much. He charged at Hades and their swords clanged. Hades frowned as the sound echoed in his ears. What kind of sword was that? He didn't recognize the echo of the metal! Hades pushed back and laughed.
“Guess you didn't expect me to fight back huh? That's your mistake! Now that we're alone I have nothing to lose. It's just you and me.” The Blocker let out a low growl and then charged at Hades again. Hades quickly blocked the attack and dealt another quick blow to the Blocker, this time to his side. This pattern continued for several attacks, Hades both stalling for time and hoping to get a chance to escape. Things were starting to look up as Hades dealt more and more blows, but he got cocky, and that was always Hades’s downfall in fights. The Blocker knew this.
As the fight drew on, the Blocker noted that Hades’s blocks were becoming sloppier and his attacks riskier. The Blocker quickly memorized Hades’s attack pattern and waited for the time to strike. Hades thrust forward and the Blocker quickly spun out of the way, catching the earth mage off guard. Before he could move, the Blocker lunged forward with his own sword.
***
Beatus stared at the fallen sword in confusion. Everyone in the shop had froze when Prota had clattered against the ground so suddenly. Beatus calmly put down what he was doing and walked over to the fallen sword. He reached down to pick it up when a man stepped forward.
“Wait, is that not the first sword Hades ever forged?” Beatus gave a short nod. “Where is he now?”
“The continent of Japan. Why?” The man swallowed then answered,
“They say the only time a blacksmith’s first sword touches the ground is when he has met the ground himself.” Beatus furrowed his brow in confusion before it hit him. Beatus quickly picked up Prota and placed it back on its mount.
“I'm sorry. The shop is closed for the rest of the day. I need to check on Hades.” The people nodded in understanding and left. Beatus fled to the back of the shop, picked up a space ring, and teleported to the village’s edge. He ran into the village and quickly began to search for a house. It did not take him long to find it and dread clamped on his heart. Beatus ran up to the house, Inari and a fox outside. The fox was trying to comfort Inari as she rocked her child back and forth, but it was no use, she just kept crying. The two looked up as Beatus approached and the fox looked back down then shook his head.
“I'm sorry,” the fox said, “He went into Aokigahara. No one in the village is brave enough to enter the forest to see if he's alive. Hades is as good as dead.” Beatus looked at Inari then said,
“I'll go. If you'll come with me, I'll go.” The fox looked uncomfortable but he cast a gaze at Inari then nodded.
“All right, let's go then.” The two began to walk off when Beatus felt a tug on his sleeve. He turned around to see Inari.
“I'm coming with you.” Beatus gave her an accepting nod. The four made their way to the forest, Aokigahara looking as foreboding as ever. The fox seemed increasingly uncomfortable, but this did not stop him. He entered the forest first, followed by Beatus, and then Inari and her son. The four ventured into the forest and followed the fox’s lead. Beatus had known that if he wanted to get through Aokigahara, he would need a guide, and this fox, as a Yokai himself, was obviously familiar with the route. It seemed like mere minutes before they reached a clearing. At first, everything seemed normal. It was just a regular clearing except for the shrine in the middle. The fox stepped back a little and covered his nose, causing Beatus to raise his eyebrows. Beatus looked back at the shrine and noticed a sword coated in blood sticking out of the ground, and by it, a hand.
“No…” Beatus ran to the shrine and covered his mouth. On the opposing side of the shrine was Hades’s dead body, a peaceful look on his face. If not for the obvious stab wound in his chest, Beatus would have mistaken Hades for being asleep, but he knew better. Beatus didn't seem to notice as Inari and the fox appeared at his side. His attention was focused on Hades. Beatus shook his head and his hands clenched into fists. Beatus fell to his knees and took one of Hades’s hands into his own, then placing the hand on Hades’s chest. Beatus did the same with Hades’s other hand then looked back at the sword. It was placed oddly, backwards to the way they were usually stood in the ground. This way the characters on the blade read ‘Katana.’