At the entrance of the laboratory, the staff parted like a river, bowing down on one knee with their heads low, forming a pathway for the approaching figure. In the center, towering over the mortals, walked Hades, the God of Death. He stood twice as tall as an average human, his imposing presence sending shivers down the spines of even the bravest souls. His black robe billowed behind him like a dark cloud, his old wrinkled face and his long walking stick thudded against the floor with each deliberate step.
As he approached, Professor Grayson and Rani stepped forward, the heads of the facility. They sank to their knees, their faces pressed to the ground in a display of utmost reverence. "Welcome, O Great One," Professor Grayson greeted, his voice muffled by the floor.
Hades's smile was unsettling, his lips curling upward in a way that seemed almost amused. "Professor Grayson, no need for such formalities. We've known each other for too long for this," he said, his deep voice resonating through the laboratory.
The professor's response was immediate. "No, it is necessary, my lord. A simple creature like myself must treat you with the highest form of respect and humbleness." His words were laced with a deep-seated fear, one that seemed to stem from more than just reverence for a god.
"All that doesn't matter as long as I get what I need. I hope I won't be disappointed today, Professor," Hades said, his voice firm but with a hint of warning.
"We will discuss their progress in detail, milord," the professor replied, his tone measured.
"Then let us not waste time on pleasantries. Let's proceed to the matter at hand," Hades said, turning to Polemus, the head of security. "Gather the children and meet us in the arena."
As they awaited the me and my brothers in the arena, the professor discusses about their achievements during the passing year, Hades turned to the professor. "These are all impressive achievements, Professor, but you haven't told me what I want to hear. Now, give it to me straight: has Kaze awakened his powers or not?"
The professor took a deep breath before responding, "No, milord... But I believe if you give us more time, he will—"
Hades interrupted, his voice cold. "Professor, may I ask you, do you know why you're here?"
The professor's response was immediate. "Because of my undying loyalty to you, milord."
"Yes, that too, but because you're the smartest person I know in the Underworld," Hades said.
The professor's face showed humility. "Please, milord, I don't deserve such praise."
Hades's expression turned serious, he's disturbing smile was now gone. "You're right; I expect more from you. If you were as successful as I had hoped, I'd be seeing better results by now, all those who failed me I threw into the pits of Tartarus, it would be a waste to do that to you too.
Hades's steps back a little from the professor. " Now the reason here today is to show you how results are achieved, if Kaze is the one who inherits my immortality then we have to know now, if he is not then I have no use for him.