41. Chapter Forty-One

Chapter Forty-One

Lexia

The table I sat at with Hades the last time I was here has been turned into a large, rectangular one. There is enough room for all six of us, each having a seat, but one is empty since Persephone is still clung to Hades' side. She's sitting on his lap, nuzzling her face in his neck as she has been this whole time. She's practically purring like a kitten, and as cute as it is, it's also a little strange.

I feel bad being here, knowing they must want to catch up on missed time.

"Congratulations, Lexia Keissinger, you're as close as can be to fulfilling your destiny."

I can't help but smile at his words, a wave of pride falling over me. We're really at the end now.

"Will you tell us what we need to know?" Vesperon asks, which is a surprise. He isn't usually one to talk or ask questions. He seems comfortable here though, and I love that.

"Of course. I'm not one to beat around the bush, especially today." He smiles at Persephone and kisses her forehead. "I want to start off by thanking you all. You cannot begin to understand what you have done for me."

"We may have an idea," Lumen says, reaching for my hand.

Hades seems lighter now. Not as tense and hard as he was the last two times I saw him. It's amazing what having someone you care about next you can do for you.

"The universe makes an abundance of many things we all need to survive. There are many things in the human realm that are in short supply, but that is because humans can be reckless."

There's humor in his tone, but unfortunately, he isn't wrong.

"One thing that is created in this world is magic. It helps keep balance. Though witches stay hidden, not so freely allowing others to know of their magic in fear of being put to death, they are still all around us. Most of them live in the human realm, as they look human and fit in with ease. The universe has not taken into consideration that this magic is not being used, only that it is producing enough for each magical being who needs it. This is why it has reached dangerous levels." Pausing, Hades runs his fingers through Persephone's hair gently. "I do not know how others found out about the magic, but having someone get their hands on that would be devastating for all of us. I am grateful to the four of you for all you have done. Not many will know of the sacrifices you have made, meaning not many will appreciate it. I hope I can speak on their behalf when I say thank you."

"Thank you for that," I say shyly.

"When you come upon this magic, it will be intimidating. From what I hear, it is a lot. Just remember, Lexia, that though you look human, you are half grey. And it is that part of you which will absorb that magic and restore the balance in the world again. Your three mates will act as an anchor. You will be safe."

"So Lexia can absorb this magic because parts of her are nothing and will… turn it into nothing," Slate says thoughtfully.

"That's correct," Hades says.

"Then why can't I be the one to do it?" Slate asks.

That is a good point. If all that's needed is to consume the magic to turn it into nothing, why am I needed?

"Because Lexia is human," Hades says. "That is the important part. Witches are human. A different type of human. In order for the magic to be consumed properly, it must go into a human . Witches can only take in so much at a time. It is the mix of human and nothing that is key."

"What about the shadows?" I ask. "What if they get to it first?"

"They do not know where the final place is; where this magic is kept. You will get there before they have a chance to figure it out, and once the magic is gone, they will leave you alone. Once it's done, it's done. Besides, knowing I am on your side may have scared them a little." He winks at us.

"So, once we do this… that's it? This is the last step?" I ask.

Hades nods. "Yes, this is the last step."

"Tell us where we need to go," Lumen says.

Hades smiles at us, his eyes shining with humor.