Hades shook his head.
“And I’m to invite you to a celebration.” Hermes was still smiling.
“You push me to my wits’ end.”
“That is why you should come.” Hermes clasped his shoulder. “Your temper threatens the peace and balance you pride yourself upon. Surely you see it?”
Hades cast a wary gaze upon him. “Why would this celebration alter the state of things?”
Hermes shrugged. “Come and see.”
“No.”
“Why?”
“Because I have responsibilities that extend beyond your understanding, Hermes, and I cannot shirk those duties for such frivolousness.”
“Is the impending marriage of a king and a Goddess frivolous?” Hermes asked. “Demeter requested you come.”
Hades felt a sudden weight upon his chest. “Whose marriage?”
“You know,” Hermes said softly.
Hades swallowed. “How will attending such festivities appease me?”
“If she means naught to you, as you claim, this will cause you no discomfort. Indeed it might do you good to see her wedded and bedded. You can move on, free of her.”
His breathing became challenged.
“Demeter wanted to thank you for shielding Persephone from Poseidon. She has arranged offerings for you at the celebrations.”
Hades wanted to hit something. Hermes was goading him, knowingly. He wanted to hit Hermes.
“Or you may stay here, reject the offerings, and brood over the loss of one that was never yours to lose. Not because she would not have you, but because you would not have her,” Hermes finished, a taunting grin upon his face.
Hades roared, his anger evident, “You have come to torment me, then?”
“You’ve assured me you cannot be tormented.”
Hades stared at him, fighting his fury.
Hermes moved forward, picking up the sword Aeacus had left. “We could wager on it.”
“No.”
“If I defeat you, you will accompany me.”
“No.”
“If you win, I will never speak of Persephone to you again. Ever.”
Hades’ eyes narrowed. “Ever?”
Hermes lifted the sword, tossing the hilt back and forth in his hands. His face was expectant, enjoying himself immensely. “Ever. Though speaking of her should provide you no distress, considering your proclaimed indifference to her…”
Hades swung the sword, bringing it down upon Hermes with all of his strength. Hermes sidestepped the blow, laughing.