Fantasy ~Taken~ (Persephone/Hades) Nano and AnimeGenork

[AnimeGenork]

Sirena, Acacian Goddess of Flowers

"Asters and Lilies and Cecilias, oh my..."​

Sirena fell back into the flowers surrounding her in the meadow. It was a beautiful, sunny day in Acacia, and it was disgusting. She curled her lip at the sun, despite the fact that without it, these flowers wouldn’t be half as beautiful. The irony was certainly not lost on her, but that didn’t mean she had to like it.

Her best friend, Lily, a nymph, giggled as she wove a daisy chain for Cecilia’s upcoming birthday. Most deities did not celebrate something as trivial as a birthday, but Acacia had records on everything that was anything, so of course they’d found an excuse to throw a party. Cecilia’s birthday was nothing more than a celebration of the day she had first bestowed her gifts of agriculture upon the land, centuries ago. Or so she said.

Absentmindedly, Sirena stroked the bud of an aster flower, watching it open at her touch. Other flowers vied for her attention, bumping against her hand like impatient pets. “Wait your turn,” she scolded, her tone more affectionate than annoyed. Lily smiled in her direction.

The two girls had been avoiding Sirena’s mother, which therefore meant they were also avoiding her father. Cecilia and Cyrus had begun fighting over her again, which was always frustrating since they seemed to forget that she was almost an adult. So she took solace in her meadow and nymph friend, as she always did.

Of course, she didn’t expect the earth to start shaking beneath her.

Nano
{I hope that was a good enough segue into Laurus coming in! I took the classic route of the myth OwO }

Coding by AnimeGenork ​

 

[Nano]

[class=bg] padding: 50px 0; width: 100%; background-image: url('https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/nxxh8as88lz0nrx/00.Lines.png'); background-color: #f6f6f6; [/class] [class=right] position: relative; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0 auto; padding: 50px; width: 100%; max-width: 750px; background: #ffffff; border: 1px solid #e3e3e3; [/class] [class=basicimagewrap] position: relative; width: 100%; height: 350px; [/class] [class=focuswrap2] position: absolute; width: 100%; height: 350px; [/class] [class=leftfocus2] float: left; display: flex; flex-direction: column; justify-content: space-between; margin-left: 1px; width: 50px; height: 350px; [/class] [class=rightfocus2] float: right; display: flex; flex-direction: column; justify-content: space-between; margin-right: 1px; width: 50px; height: 350px; [/class] [class=focuscolumn2] width: 50px; height: 50px; [/class] [class=basicimage] display: inline-block; margin: 25px; width: calc(100% - 50px); height: 300px; background: url('https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/1w666qrvl28zkac/LaurusIC.jpg') no-repeat center; background-size: 900px 300px; filter: opacity(95%); [/class] [class=header] width: 100%; font-family: 'Playfair Display', serif; font-weight: bold; text-transform: lowercase; font-variant-caps: normal; font-size: 2.0em; line-height: 80%; color: #444444; text-align: center; [/class] [class=subheader] margin-top: 4px; width: 100%; font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif; font-weight: normal; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 0.7em; line-height: 80%; color: #999999; text-align: center; [/class] [class=box] box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 50px; padding: 25px 20px; width: 100%; border: 1px solid #e3e3e3; font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif; font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 125%; color: #444444; text-align: justify; [/class] [div class=bg] [div class=right] [div class=contentwrap] [div class=basicimagewrap] [div class=focuswrap2] [div class=leftfocus2] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [/div] [div class=rightfocus2] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [/div] [/div] [div class=basicimage] [/div] [/div]

[div class=header] laurus

[div class=subheader] GOD OF THE UNDERWORLD [/div] [/div] [div class=basicsR] [div class=box] The lakewater shivered as the last of the images faded into its silk-like ripples. Unlike the underworld which basked in the tranquil illumination of a constant silvery moonlight, the upper realms were always vibrant with color and life. While he felt guilt upon depriving the world of that warmth, he found comfort in knowing that it would only be temporary. It couldn’t be helped, for the ominous whispers of his dearest spirits spoke of grave consequences otherwise. Yes, this was the only way to maintain Acacia’s balance, even if it vilified his existence.

His placid expression suddenly creased into a frown. The only wrench in his plan was the nymph that was accompanying Cecilia’s daughter. Whenever it was convenient for him to act, the two seemed to stick together, as if privy to some premonition of danger. While he could easily put the nymph to sleep, she would without a doubt cause a ruckus upon waking up, and it wouldn’t do for the schemers to hear so soon that their target had been swiped from under their noses.

Weighing his options, Laurus decided that it would be less of a hassle to bring the two together. It was better for the goddess to have a friend within a strange place, anyway.

“Lau! You done with spying?” a loud voice called his attention away from the lake. Even without laying his eyes upon the speaker, he could immediately tell her identity. After all, there was only a single person who dared to speak to the god of the underworld so crudely.

“Timoria.” he acknowledged with a nod but not without brushing past her teasing commentary. “I assume the preparations are complete?” Behind her was her much stiffer brother, Somnium, who wore an apologetic expression as per usual. Fortunately, Laurus had long grown apathetic to the younger twin’s boisterous and casual manner of speaking, though that never seemed to put her ever serious elder sibling at ease.

Somnium squeezed past his sister before bowing. “Though your servant cannot anticipate the whims of a being of light, the proper accommodations to provide as much comfort as possible have been made.”

The god of the underworld merely nodded in approval of their work. Taking this as a signal that “it” was going to begin, the two gatekeepers each shuffled to one side to lie in wait for his next instructions. Soon, Laurus willed the ground to open. With a violent tremor, a flash of light flooded into the area before quickly disappearing, leaving only a single goddess and her nymph to tumble down in its place. Fortunately for the two, the god had taken care to have their fall broken midway so that they would float down the rest of the way gently, though he couldn’t guarantee cushioning the mental shock. Tact had never been his forte.

Once the two were once again on safe footing, Laurus gazed upon them with all the coldness of winter. Ten excruciatingly thick seconds of silence were only broken by Timoria stepping in, all too knowing of her king’s passive nature.

“As much as you probably don’t want to be here, welcome!” she said with an exaggerated curtsy. The mysterious smile upon her finely crafted face gave off the impression of something beautiful yet wicked, like an impish child. “Regardless of how you feel, you can’t return to that land of light anytime soon, so please make our jobs easier by not trying anything rash~” [/div] [/div] [/div]

# AnimeGenork

[/div] [/div]

 

[AnimeGenork]

Sirena, Acacian Goddess of Flowers

"What in the Underworld..."​

Sirena had never felt an earthquake before. She’d heard of them, of course—the villages by the northern sea of Acacia often suffered them—but the center of Acacia held no temptation for tremors like that. Lily, by association, had also never felt one before. So her reaction was slightly more girlish. Meaning, she flung her progressing daisy chain away and clung to Sirena like she used to as a young baby goddess to Cecilia’s leg.

The ground seemed to open up before her, but instead of falling into it, Sirena blinked as a bright flash of light surrounded her and Lily. The sensation made her feel as if she was falling through space, down a dark—er, light—hole. By the time the light faded, she saw she was falling, except it was only a foot or two.

Needless to say, she landed on her rear end.

Lily squealed and clung tighter to her, also landing on her backside. However, the fall had been rather graceful, so the landing didn’t actually hurt. Sirena did not want to know how exactly that had been accomplished. Wrapping her arm around Lily, Sirena finally looked up at their surroundings.

Wow. It was really dark in here. As the goddess of flowers, Sirena knew what she was talking about. This place was practically devoid of color. Just wow. How in the heck had she gone from a meadow full of wildflowers to this?! But seeing the man standing in front of her, Sirena knew she and Lily couldn’t stay sitting on the floor any longer.

Pushing herself onto her feet and pulling Lily after her, Sirena glared at the man with the cold gaze. He looked familiar, as most gods did to her, but she was fairly sure they’d never met. The wintry gaze did little to help; Sirena was used to the warmth of Acacia. She had to admit, though, that he was handsome. That wasn’t really a good admission, since her father was handsome—and he was a master at seducing women.

It wasn’t long before their glaring contest was interrupted by a girl who gave Sirena a rather weird curtsy. Considering the guy’s coldness, it was weird to be warmly welcomed to—wherever this was. But something in the girl’s welcome caught Sirena’s attention and caused Lily to gasp.

“‘Land of light’? What does that… Wait.” Sirena’s eyes widened as she finally put the pieces together. The bleak surroundings, the lack of light, the cold welcome from the man who was clearly its master… they were in the Underworld. “Why on earth am I in the Underworld?! Did you kidnap me? You must be Laurus, then! I thought I recognized you. What am I doing here?” Despite the girl’s advice, Sirena was sorely tempted to do something incredibly rash. Like maybe punch Laurus in the face.

Lily put her hand on her arm, calming her the slightest bit. In a more timid voice, she stammered, “Please, Lord Laurus, er, sir… We’re very confused as to why you brought us here. Could you please explain? The Underworld is very far from home.” The nymph bit her lip, clearly worried about her forest home and how it would fare without her.

“Yeah, you’ve got some explaining to do,” Sirena growled.

Nano
{Sorry that took so long! I'm back from France and ready to RP again!}

Coding by AnimeGenork ​

 

[Nano]

[class=bg] padding: 50px 0; width: 100%; background-image: url('https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/nxxh8as88lz0nrx/00.Lines.png'); background-color: #f6f6f6; font-size: initial; [/class] [class=right] position: relative; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0 auto; padding: 50px; width: 100%; max-width: 750px; background: #ffffff; border: 1px solid #e3e3e3; [/class] [class=basicimagewrap] position: relative; width: 100%; height: 350px; [/class] [class=focuswrap2] position: absolute; width: 100%; height: 350px; [/class] [class=leftfocus2] float: left; display: flex; flex-direction: column; justify-content: space-between; margin-left: 1px; width: 50px; height: 350px; [/class] [class=rightfocus2] float: right; display: flex; flex-direction: column; justify-content: space-between; margin-right: 1px; width: 50px; height: 350px; [/class] [class=focuscolumn2] width: 50px; height: 50px; [/class] [class=basicimage] display: inline-block; margin: 25px; width: calc(100% - 50px); height: 300px; background: url('https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/1w666qrvl28zkac/LaurusIC.jpg') no-repeat center; background-size: 900px 300px; filter: opacity(95%); [/class] [class=header] width: 100%; font-family: 'Playfair Display', serif; font-weight: bold; text-transform: lowercase; font-variant-caps: normal; font-size: 2.0em; line-height: 80%; color: #444444; text-align: center; [/class] [class=subheader] margin-top: 4px; width: 100%; font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif; font-weight: normal; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 0.7em; line-height: 80%; color: #999999; text-align: center; [/class] [class=box] box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 50px; padding: 25px 20px; width: 100%; border: 1px solid #e3e3e3; font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif; font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 125%; color: #444444; text-align: justify; [/class] [div class=bg] [div class=right] [div class=contentwrap] [div class=basicimagewrap] [div class=focuswrap2] [div class=leftfocus2] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [/div] [div class=rightfocus2] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [/div] [/div] [div class=basicimage] [/div] [/div]

[div class=header] laurus

[div class=subheader] GOD OF THE UNDERWORLD [/div] [/div] [div class=basicsR] [div class=box] His icy gaze clashed with the blonde’s fiery glare, but neither so much as flinched. As he had expected, Timoria’s welcome message quickly invited an onslaught of questions. “Bold” was his first impression. Her assertive tone might as well have had her growling while pointing an accusing finger at him. However, her clearly expressed fury gave him the impression that she likely wished to deliver a solid fist to his face instead, invoking an amused smile behind his stoic mask. Cyrus must be proud of such a dauntless (though a bit audacious) daughter—or so he thought.

Laurus continued to roll the pair’s questions in his head. It wasn’t often that he had to skirt around topics with vague answers, but this occasion couldn’t be handled casually. The goddess’ personality wasn’t something he was familiar with. However, he could tell from her temperament that she wouldn’t take the news of the kidnapping plot very well. In fact, she had little reason to trust him, who, in her eyes, would likely appear to be doing the exact same thing. If it came down to it, the blonde would figure it out on her own, but now wasn’t the time.

With this in mind, the god’s expression softened several degrees, and the slightest of smiles played on his lips. Seeing this shift in atmosphere, one might have expected sweet words of comfort or a sugarcoated explanation of the blonde’s predicament. It was a scene expectant of a favorable response. However, what came out of his mouth appalled even his two most trusted aides.

“Because your existence is a troublesome matter.”

“...” The two by his side expressed their shock in absolute silence, one standing in muted surprise while the other’s eyes widened a fraction with her mouth threatening to hang agape.

My Lord, that isn’t something you say with a smile! Somnium’s inner panic circled at mach speed in spite of his placid expression. He knew that the god of the underworld had a terrible habit of gutting his words, but wasn’t this “explanation” cut much too short? And for the first time in years, he shot his twin a desperate look.

Furtively glowering at her brother for having thrust the weight of the situation onto her, Timoria cleared her throat with a nervous laugh. “Well, err, Sirena—your name is Sirena, right? And the little nymph as well. Lau is...anyway, feel free to think of this as an extended vacation, and you’ll be fine...probably.” Her ensuing gaze was almost sympathetic before sharpening once again as it landed on her older twin’s figure.

“My Lord,” Somnium promptly cut in at his sister’s cue, “perhaps you should escort the lady to her room. Timoria and I shall see to that situation.”

With those words said, the two took off while praying that no calamities would occur in the underworld that day. At the very least, they trusted that their god wouldn’t make their jobs more difficult than he already had.

Still, Laurus stood there with an unreadable expression, one that was gentle, but invariably impassive. Finally, he tipped his head slightly forward at Sirena in acknowledgement of the task left to him. As a “host”, it was only right for him to be the person showing her to the room that she’d be using.

“This way,” he said, though he stepped forward only a single step, as if gauging whether or not the blonde would follow. [/div] [/div] [/div]

# AnimeGenork

[/div] [/div]

 

[AnimeGenork]

Sirena, Acacian Goddess of Flowers

"I'm...troublesome..."​

Sirena watched Laurus’s face shift the tiniest bit. In all honesty, she found it a bit creepy. Lily, meanwhile, seemed to take comfort in his softened expression. Sirena was hardly fooled, but all the same, it seemed that the god of the Underworld was going to attempt to reassure her in her—angry—confusion.

That was not what happened.

Lily gasped audibly, but Sirena simply widened her eyes at the harsh statement. Your existence is a troublesome matter. The smile on his face drifted through her mind, a harsh vision as she recalled her early days as a goddess, watching her parents fight over her. Cecilia claiming that Cyrus was never home, too busy seducing women to care for his daughter. Cyrus refuting this, in turn blaming Cecilia for caring more about Acacia’s harvest than what Sirena wanted. Both of them turning to her, demanding to know which parent she thought more neglectful. And her… bursting into tears and running away, wanting nothing more than for her parents to get along.

Shutting her eyes, Sirena tried to block the memory. Sensing her distress, Lily turned a frosty glare on Laurus and his two attendants. Though the female one gave some actual reassurance, Lily only needed to look at Sirena’s face to know the damage had been done.

Soon enough, the twin attendants departed, leaving Lily and Sirena alone with Laurus. Lily looked incredibly frustrated at this situation, so she wrapped an arm around Sirena stepped in front of her, as if blocking her friend from any more verbal attacks. Sirena, however, did not notice a thing, caught in her own little world.

Laurus began to lead the way toward their “room,” a term that made Lily a bit nervous. He seemed to be waiting for them to follow, but seeing as Sirena was not in the proper state to do so, Lily had to guide her along as the young goddess simply stared at the ground blankly.

As they followed Laurus, Lily muttered darkly, “That was uncalled for. He has no right to claim that when everyone knows you’re the reason the acacia flowers and all the other blooms in Acacia depend on you!”

Sirena turned her pained gaze on Lily, and the nymph saw just how deeply Laurus’s words had affected her. “No, Lily. He’s… he’s right. I am just a burden. I shouldn’t even exist…” Her voice trailed off, and she continued to follow Laurus while Lily stopped in her tracks and stared after her. After a moment, she ran to catch up.

The goddess of flowers barely noticed when Lily intertwined their fingers and gave her hand a comforting squeeze.

Lily and Sirena followed Laurus all the way to a door that appeared to be the room they were to stay in. Sirena wasn’t feeling any better about his earlier comment, but she managed to mutter, “Thank you,” before entering the room. At least its darkness reflects my mood, she thought.

Hands on her hips, Lily turned to Laurus. “I hope you’ll at least bring her some food. It’s the least you can do after treating her like that.” Turning on her heel, she entered the room and slammed the door behind her, leaving the King of the Underworld behind it.

Nano
{Ugh makeup work for school followed by the musical sucks... T_T}

Coding by AnimeGenork ​

 

[Nano]

[class=bg] padding: 50px 0; width: 100%; background-image: url('https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/nxxh8as88lz0nrx/00.Lines.png'); background-color: #f6f6f6; font-size: initial; [/class] [class=right] position: relative; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0 auto; padding: 50px; width: 100%; max-width: 750px; background: #ffffff; border: 1px solid #e3e3e3; [/class] [class=basicimagewrap] position: relative; width: 100%; height: 350px; [/class] [class=focuswrap2] position: absolute; width: 100%; height: 350px; [/class] [class=leftfocus2] float: left; display: flex; flex-direction: column; justify-content: space-between; margin-left: 1px; width: 50px; height: 350px; [/class] [class=rightfocus2] float: right; display: flex; flex-direction: column; justify-content: space-between; margin-right: 1px; width: 50px; height: 350px; [/class] [class=focuscolumn2] width: 50px; height: 50px; [/class] [class=basicimage] display: inline-block; margin: 25px; width: calc(100% - 50px); height: 300px; background: url('https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/1w666qrvl28zkac/LaurusIC.jpg') no-repeat center; background-size: 900px 300px; filter: opacity(95%); [/class] [class=header] width: 100%; font-family: 'Playfair Display', serif; font-weight: bold; text-transform: lowercase; font-variant-caps: normal; font-size: 2.0em; line-height: 80%; color: #444444; text-align: center; [/class] [class=subheader] margin-top: 4px; width: 100%; font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif; font-weight: normal; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 0.7em; line-height: 80%; color: #999999; text-align: center; [/class] [class=box] box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 50px; padding: 25px 20px; width: 100%; border: 1px solid #e3e3e3; font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif; font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 125%; color: #444444; text-align: justify; [/class] [div class=bg] [div class=right] [div class=contentwrap] [div class=basicimagewrap] [div class=focuswrap2] [div class=leftfocus2] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [/div] [div class=rightfocus2] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [/div] [/div] [div class=basicimage] [/div] [/div]

[div class=header] laurus

[div class=subheader] GOD OF THE UNDERWORLD [/div] [/div] [div class=basicsR] [div class=box] Laurus couldn’t read the minds of gods. The same could be said about their memories, or rather it would be rude to do so to a living soul. However, he didn’t need to notice the nymph’s frosty glare to realize that his simple commentary had “crossed the line.” Unintentional, yet intentional. In one way or another, the god of the underworld’s interactions never went well outside of his work. Hence all, save for the twins, kept a respectful distance, though he didn’t mind it as much as others thought.

Scorn me. Resent me. Then this ordeal will eventually become but a distant dream. His thoughts did not reveal themselves in his impassive gaze, but he knew that such developments were inevitable, regardless. Nothing good came out of growing attached to this dark and dreary world—not that many did—and this child belonged in the light of Acacia. The best intentions would be to distract her and keep her ignorant while he gradually dealt with the situation above. He was never the sort who sought credit. After all, an attitude impartial to such trivialities was practically a requirement for a final judge and arbiter. If he thought it was the right path—even when outsiders thought otherwise—then he’d pursue it until the bitter end.

Therefore, when the blonde dropped a hushed “thank you,” the god’s eyes widened a fraction. However, he had no time to dwell on her reasons for doing so (though likely a simple courtesy). Faced by the nymph’s rather aggressive command, his lashes fluttered down in some semblance of understanding. Even upon having the door slammed in his face, he did nothing to retaliate.

Not too far after, a light knock would sound on the door. One of the twins from before cautiously pushed open the door at a painstaking pace, as if wondering whether or not he’d immediately be ordered back out.

“Something simple for now. If you have any particular tastes and favorites, just tell my sister.” Somnium’s eyes trailed towards Sirena’s dismal figure as he handed a silver tray with the still steaming bowl of Fassolada to the little nymph. The twins hadn’t known whether the goddess ate meat, so they had naturally taken the safest of routes. Additionally, the two’s culinary experiences were derived from the surface; they were at least privy to such details on which were considered classic dishes. Perhaps it wouldn’t quite be a “taste of home,” but it would at least serve as something familiar in this strange setting.

Somnium’s eyes landed back on the previously (or still?) angry nymph. He sighed. Laurus cut his words far too much. Timori always said too much. Meanwhile, Somnium was about just as reserved as their king, as opposed to his sister’s meddlesome behavior. The god’s passive management was a norm, and his vassals had never done much to alleviate any ensuing situations. Yet this time, he couldn’t help but feel an oncoming disaster if this misunderstanding was allowed to persist. But what could he do?

“Please don’t mind His Lordship’s words too much,” he said in a hushed voice, “Guests aren’t frequent here.”

Did that sound too much like an excuse? He didn’t know. If only Timoria were here…

With an almost nervous look crossing his frosty expressions, Somnium bowed as he excused himself quickly. “If you have any needs, simply call for us using our names: Somnium or Timoria. As long as you’re in the underworld, we’ll be able to hear it. As for our king...he’s usually resting by the lakeside at this time.”

It was only after he closed the door behind him and went off on his way that he noticed that he never explained where “the lakeside” was or which he was referring to. Then again, it wasn’t likely that she’d purposefully seek him out. Hopefully. [/div] [/div] [/div]

# AnimeGenork

[/div] [/div]

 

[AnimeGenork]

Sirena, Acacian Goddess of Flowers

"A new type of flower...?"​

Sirena sat by the window, gazing out at the dark Underworld. There were different shades of darkness to it, so much so that it looked like the inverted version of the surface world. In its own way, it was beautiful. She stayed by the window, studying everything in her view that she could see, ignoring Lily’s attempts to lighten the mood.

When the knock came at the door, Lily faced it, ready to glare the Underworld out of Laurus if need may be. Instead, it was one of the twin attendants. Lily sighed. “I didn’t think he’d take my threat so seriously.” She took the silver tray from the attendant with a small smile, following his gaze to Sirena. “She’ll probably eat anything. Sirena’s never been the picky type. Unless it came from her father.”

Lily gently approached Sirena and set the tray with the Fasolada beside her. Without saying a word, Sirena picked up the bowl and started eating it. It was a start. Sirena barely acknowledged the attendant, even when he seemed to apologize on Laurus’s behalf. She simply glanced over at him and back out the window. Lily, however, had something to say about it. “If he doesn’t mean to hurt, he shouldn’t say anything at all.”

Sirena sighed, but she didn’t reprimand Lily like she wanted to. She was slightly relieved that she had such a good friend with her here, even if she was causing trouble on her behalf.

Her thoughts wandered again as the attendant made his exit, and Lily turned back to the goddess of flowers. “Somnium and Timoria, huh? Is their Fasolada good, at least?” Sirena handed the half-eaten bowl to the nymph, who took it and ate the remains of the stew.

“I’m going to take a walk,” Sirena muttered, making her way toward the door. Lily looked up from the Fasolada, but she didn’t follow. Good. Sirena really didn’t want her best friend to try filling the silence with words as she had been for the past while.

First, she nearly got lost going through the hallways. Luckily, she got lost enough that she eventually found her way outside, exactly where she’d wanted to go. The outside was just as dismal as the inside, but at least it was outside. Sirena glanced around at all the trees in different shades of black and gray and the other plants in a similar color palette. “It’s certainly the Underworld, isn’t it? If they can borrow surface food, why can’t they borrow surface colors?”

Finally, she came near a large body of water. A lake? In the Underworld? That was weird. Then again, this was the home of a god, and gods didn’t exactly follow the rules of logic. Nevertheless, it was beautiful in a strange way, like the rest of the Underworld. Sirena ventured closer to the water’s edge, leaning over it enough that she could see her reflection. She didn’t look as bad as she thought she would, having fallen through the ground into the Underworld and not being under the sun as she usually was.

Following the water’s edge, she continued exploring the Underworld, finding herself oddly fascinated with everything there. That is, until she accidentally stumbled upon its king, sitting by the lakeside.

Stopping in her tracks, Sirena widened her eyes. Why was he here, of all places in the Underworld? Didn’t he have a throne or something to sit in? Or was that just her father? Either way, this was incredibly awkward. Looking away from Laurus, Sirena stammered, “I’m s-sorry. I-I didn’t know y-you’d be h-here. I’ll, um… just go now.”

She started to turn away, but then she spotted a flower at her feet. Crouching down beside it, she realized it was a type of flower not found in Acacia. Was it native to the Underworld? When she reached her hand out to it, it stretched up to meet her. So even flowers in the Underworld responded to her. That was a plus. The flower brushed against her hand and identified itself as asphodel. “What a pretty flower you are. How do you survive in a place like this?” The flower perked up, and in an instant, she was surrounded by multiple asphodel blossoms.

Sirena smiled for the first time since she’d come to the Underworld. “Didn’t think I’d find something so nice here.”

Nano
{It's long... because apparently that's the only way to move something along...}

Coding by AnimeGenork ​

 

[Nano]

[class=bg] padding: 50px 0; width: 100%; background-image: url('https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/nxxh8as88lz0nrx/00.Lines.png'); background-color: #f6f6f6; font-size: initial; [/class] [class=right] position: relative; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0 auto; padding: 50px; width: 100%; max-width: 750px; background: #ffffff; border: 1px solid #e3e3e3; [/class] [class=basicimagewrap] position: relative; width: 100%; height: 350px; [/class] [class=focuswrap2] position: absolute; width: 100%; height: 350px; [/class] [class=leftfocus2] float: left; display: flex; flex-direction: column; justify-content: space-between; margin-left: 1px; width: 50px; height: 350px; [/class] [class=rightfocus2] float: right; display: flex; flex-direction: column; justify-content: space-between; margin-right: 1px; width: 50px; height: 350px; [/class] [class=focuscolumn2] width: 50px; height: 50px; [/class] [class=basicimage] display: inline-block; margin: 25px; width: calc(100% - 50px); height: 300px; background: url('https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/1w666qrvl28zkac/LaurusIC.jpg') no-repeat center; background-size: 900px 300px; filter: opacity(95%); [/class] [class=header] width: 100%; font-family: 'Playfair Display', serif; font-weight: bold; text-transform: lowercase; font-variant-caps: normal; font-size: 2.0em; line-height: 80%; color: #444444; text-align: center; [/class] [class=subheader] margin-top: 4px; width: 100%; font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif; font-weight: normal; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 0.7em; line-height: 80%; color: #999999; text-align: center; [/class] [class=box] box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 50px; padding: 25px 20px; width: 100%; border: 1px solid #e3e3e3; font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif; font-size: 0.9em; line-height: 130%; color: #444444; text-align: justify; [/class] [div class=bg] [div class=right] [div class=contentwrap] [div class=basicimagewrap] [div class=focuswrap2] [div class=leftfocus2] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [/div] [div class=rightfocus2] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [/div] [/div] [div class=basicimage] [/div] [/div]

[div class=header] laurus

[div class=subheader] GOD OF THE UNDERWORLD [/div] [/div] [div class=basicsR] [div class=box] The silvery lighting danced on the undulating water’s edge as the god of the underworld swept a pale hand through the lake. Amongst the ripples, images slowly began to surface. Each presented a visual of things that a certain visitor would be very familiar with, yet the god continued to watch with an almost childish facination. After all, it was hardly something that he could go to experience for himself.

He had never been dissatisfied with his lot. If he had to say, he was honored to be the caretaker of the souls of the humans whom he loved so much, and perhaps it was this distant relationship with them that he could continue to appreciate both the good and bad in humans age after age. However, the regrets and longing would always remain. Unlike the other gods, he didn’t have the luxury of walking alongside mankind, of sharing their joy, and of seeing the same colors that they did. The souls of the dead he met were different, after all. Some were twisted beyond humanity while others had their memories wiped of the regrets they left behind above. Even the grand heroes were engrossed in their own individual paradises which he had no means of sharing.

Laurus wasn’t always so heavily laden with work that he could never afford a trip to the surface. However, he wouldn’t dare. For one’s home cannot stand without its sovereign. Thus, he passed his days observing the humans he adored from a humble distance.

In his reverie, the dark-haired god nearly missed the approaching footfalls of his visitor. As the blonde stammered out an apology, his only thought was that it was strange that she’d step so far out of the way of her guestroom. Perhaps it was simply the nature of gods to be curious of the unfamiliar.

Regardless, Laurus didn’t particularly mind the extra presence. As if forgetting about his past transgression, he responded in a hushed but silvery tone, “It is fine. Fate chooses its companions.” If her feet willed her towards the lake, then so be it.

Out of the corner of his eye, he watched as the asphodel showered the goddess of flowers with their affections, a show that even their king had never received from them. When a smile—the first of its kind—had effaced on the blonde’s face, Laurus absentmindedly answered the goddess, “They grow as a reminder of the memories that the souls here have left behind.”

When Timoria had learned of this meaning long ago, she had laughed that it was a rather morbid sentiment that such a beautiful flower held. Laurus, however, stood his ground in keeping their presence in the underworld. The heroes had their fantasies, and the evil-hearted had their torments, but the aged laws had long dictated that average souls were given nothing: no punishments nor rewards. Not even their memories were preserved. Thus, he wished to provide them some form of solace in the form of a reminder that they had once been something, just as the more fortunate souls had.

As if sensing his thoughts, the lake—which had stilled upon Serena’s arrival—shivered once again and revealed an image of people bustling about.

Is there an upcoming festival? Laurus thought to himself. Watching the excited expressions pass by, the god couldn’t help but wonder if the blonde nearby had ever joined in on festivities, as while most gods mingled with humans plenty, the goddess didn’t seem to be the sort to do so. He turned his cool gaze towards the goddess to voice a fraction of his growing curiosities. “Is the surface lively?” [/div] [/div] [/div]

# AnimeGenork

[/div] [/div]

 

[AnimeGenork]

Sirena, Acacian Goddess of Flowers

"I miss the sun."​

The Underworld King's gracious acceptance of her presence was certainly a strange change from his cold tone earlier. He hadn't warmed to her, not exactly. But he wasn't purposely being unkind. She realized suddenly that perhaps Laurus had simply not wanted to tell her the precise reason he had brought her here.

By the time she had figured this out, she was distracted by the flower. The strangely beautiful asphodel. Almost as if he hadn't meant to, Laurus explained the asphodel's purpose, and though it made Sirena frown, the flowers themselves tried desperately to reassure her. "Try as they might, they cannot replace something as priceless as memories. No wonder they lack color." She brushed her hand against many of the blossoms surrounding her, feeling pity for the flowers that could not truly fulfill the purpose they had been created to serve.

After a few more moments of silence, in which Laurus seemed to shift his attention back to the lake water, he asked her about the surface. The wording of the question made Sirena snort. "Lively? A little too lively, if you ask me. Everyone in Acacia is always smiling about something. And everyone in the village in my village marvels at the two goddesses living in their midst. If anything, Mom and I are the reason they're so lively." With a sigh, she added, "That's why I hide out in the meadow with Lily."

Glancing over her shoulder, Sirena realized there was an image rippling in the lake, though she couldn't exactly tell what from this distance. Standing up despite the asphodels' protests, she ventured closer to the lake, keeping a wide berth between her and Laurus. She suddenly understood his question, looking at the image. "Must be the preparations for Cecilia's birthday. Festivals and the like make the surface all the livelier--and more annoying."

Despite her harsh tone, a certain part of Sirena missed that liveliness. She hated the attention, to be sure, but it was home. And her mother... would she worry? Would she notice she was gone?

Kneeling beside the lake, Sirena's mouth lifted in a rueful smile. "I suppose I will have to miss my mother's birthday."

And then she asked the question she didn't think she'd actually ask.

"What's the real reason you kidnapped me?"

Nano
{I LIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIVE}

Coding by AnimeGenork ​

 

[Nano]

[class=bg] padding: 50px 0; width: 100%; background-image: url('https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/nxxh8as88lz0nrx/00.Lines.png'); background-color: #f6f6f6; font-size: initial; [/class] [class=right] position: relative; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0 auto; padding: 50px; width: 100%; max-width: 750px; background: #ffffff; border: 1px solid #e3e3e3; [/class] [class=basicimagewrap] position: relative; width: 100%; height: 350px; [/class] [class=focuswrap2] position: absolute; width: 100%; height: 350px; [/class] [class=leftfocus2] float: left; display: flex; flex-direction: column; justify-content: space-between; margin-left: 1px; width: 50px; height: 350px; [/class] [class=rightfocus2] float: right; display: flex; flex-direction: column; justify-content: space-between; margin-right: 1px; width: 50px; height: 350px; [/class] [class=focuscolumn2] width: 50px; height: 50px; [/class] [class=basicimage] display: inline-block; margin: 25px; width: calc(100% - 50px); height: 300px; background: url('https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/1w666qrvl28zkac/LaurusIC.jpg') no-repeat center; background-size: 900px 300px; filter: opacity(95%); [/class] [class=header] width: 100%; font-family: 'Playfair Display', serif; font-weight: bold; text-transform: lowercase; font-variant-caps: normal; font-size: 2.0em; line-height: 80%; color: #444444; text-align: center; [/class] [class=subheader] margin-top: 4px; width: 100%; font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif; font-weight: normal; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 0.7em; line-height: 80%; color: #999999; text-align: center; [/class] [class=box] box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 50px; padding: 25px 20px; width: 100%; border: 1px solid #e3e3e3; font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif; font-size: 0.9em; line-height: 130%; color: #444444; text-align: justify; [/class] [div class=bg] [div class=right] [div class=contentwrap] [div class=basicimagewrap] [div class=focuswrap2] [div class=leftfocus2] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [/div] [div class=rightfocus2] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [/div] [/div] [div class=basicimage] [/div] [/div]

[div class=header] laurus

[div class=subheader] GOD OF THE UNDERWORLD [/div] [/div] [div class=basicsR] [div class=box] "Try as they might, they cannot replace something as priceless as memories. No wonder they lack color."

At the goddess’ words, Laurus’ expression turned gelid.

“No, they cannot,” he said distantly. He had specifically chosen “reminder” rather than “replace,” yet it appeared that his words had (once again) failed to convey his thoughts. Whether she had misunderstood his words or not, correcting her belief of his intentions was unnecessary. The flowers would continue to bloom regardless.

Sirena’s answer to his question, however, caused his face to relax once more. Living amongst mortals was something he could only dare to dream of, yet the goddess said it so naturally. The surface must be truly lively as she had described. Though he was still curious. What about it could possibly lead her to shy away from it all?

Absentmindedly giving a “hn” in response to the words following his reverie, it wasn’t until Sirena turned to ask him the unexpected that he snapped his attention back towards the goddess. The reason for her kidnapping was truly…

“Troublesome,” he murmured, finishing his thoughts aloud. Feeling that he had uttered similar words during their first encounter, the god quickly composed himself with a placid expression in place. “The reason...is simply on a whim.” It was a half-truth. Not wishing to see the world of the immortals being disturbed by the greed of petty thieves, the king of the underworld had resolved himself to become the scapegoat if worse came to worst. All on a “whim,” of course.

Turning to face the lake once again, Laurus eyed the images still swimming amongst the water’s ripples. Seeing the brilliant festivities softened his heart. If that was the place he had taken her from, then perhaps she deserved at least a few words:

“You will return. Hopefully soon, be it days or months.” [/div] [/div] [/div]

# AnimeGenork

[/div] [/div]

 

[AnimeGenork]

Sirena

Acacian Goddess of Flowers​

Sirena found that Laurus was continuing to surprise her. Perhaps it was because his first impression of her was contrary to the way he was. Or maybe he really wanted her to go away, but she kept asking him questions, so he felt obliged to answer. Hm. That was probably the case.

It appeared that his earlier comment was still smarting, because as the word troublesome left Laurus’s mouth, Sirena flinched. The dark cloud that had gradually evaporated away as she admired the asphodel begin to creep back over her, only to halt in its progress as Laurus continued. Sirena couldn’t help it; she stared at him. A whim? Was she seriously supposed to believe that?

“A whim?” she spat, rising to her feet. Her hands balled into fists, not that she intended to harm him. She was too weak for that. “What in Acacia could possess you kidnap me on a whim? I am not some object one purchases for their own pleasure.” Heat was rising through her now, consuming her wholly. She was more than angry; she was enraged. “And to think I was beginning to change my opinion of you! I see now you’re exactly as horrible as the rumors make you out to be! You have no business keeping me here for months just because you feel like it!” Disgusted, she began striding away, past Laurus and his stupid tree.

And then the lake changed.

Sirena wasn’t quite sure why the image in the lake changed, but she was glad it did at that very moment. Now, the lake showed her mother, Cecilia, a look of distraught on her unfairly beautiful face. She was talking to the wood nymphs and other nature spirits, probably asking about her whereabouts. It occurred to Sirena that she’d told her mother she’d meet her in the afternoon to help prepare for the birthday festival. Oops.

“Please find her,” came Cecilia’s voice through the water, sounding muffled. “It’s not like her to be this late. I’m worried something’s happened to her.”

Sirena snorted. Something had happened to her, all right. She’d been kidnapped by a jerk!

“I can only hope she’ll return before the festival,” her mother continued. “The people love her so much. It would be a shame for her to disappoint them.”

Of course. Her mother didn’t miss her because she loved her, despite what she claimed. She only missed her because she cared so much about public opinion. Classic.

I’ve heard enough, Sirena thought angrily. Shooting a glare at Laurus, she snarled, “See that? Looks like my mother’s noticed my absence. It won’t be long before she finds someone who saw me fall into that hole of yours.” Turning away, she added, “I hope you have an excuse ready for when my father finds out about this. The King of the Gods has a problem with people messing with his daughter.”

With that, she started again back toward the palace. It wasn’t even over, and this day had already been too much.

Nano
{I hope that's enough to go off of!}

Coding by AnimeGenork ​

 

[Nano]

[class=bg] padding: 50px 0; width: 100%; background-image: url('https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/nxxh8as88lz0nrx/00.Lines.png'); background-color: #f6f6f6; font-size: initial; [/class] [class=right] position: relative; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0 auto; padding: 50px; width: 100%; max-width: 750px; background: #ffffff; border: 1px solid #e3e3e3; [/class] [class=basicimagewrap] position: relative; width: 100%; height: 350px; [/class] [class=focuswrap2] position: absolute; width: 100%; height: 350px; [/class] [class=leftfocus2] float: left; display: flex; flex-direction: column; justify-content: space-between; margin-left: 1px; width: 50px; height: 350px; [/class] [class=rightfocus2] float: right; display: flex; flex-direction: column; justify-content: space-between; margin-right: 1px; width: 50px; height: 350px; [/class] [class=focuscolumn2] width: 50px; height: 50px; [/class] [class=basicimage] display: inline-block; margin: 25px; width: calc(100% - 50px); height: 300px; background: url('https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/1w666qrvl28zkac/LaurusIC.jpg') no-repeat center; background-size: 900px 300px; filter: opacity(95%); [/class] [class=header] width: 100%; font-family: 'Playfair Display', serif; font-weight: bold; text-transform: lowercase; font-variant-caps: normal; font-size: 2.0em; line-height: 80%; color: #444444; text-align: center; [/class] [class=subheader] margin-top: 4px; width: 100%; font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif; font-weight: normal; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 0.7em; line-height: 80%; color: #999999; text-align: center; [/class] [class=box] box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 50px; padding: 25px 20px; width: 100%; border: 1px solid #e3e3e3; font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif; font-size: 0.9em; line-height: 130%; color: #444444; text-align: justify; [/class] [div class=bg] [div class=right] [div class=contentwrap] [div class=basicimagewrap] [div class=focuswrap2] [div class=leftfocus2] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [/div] [div class=rightfocus2] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [/div] [/div] [div class=basicimage] [/div] [/div]

[div class=header] laurus

[div class=subheader] GOD OF THE UNDERWORLD [/div] [/div] [div class=basicsR] [div class=box] The Underworld’s Sovereign was a god whom humans took great pains to offer their due respect to. That respect, however, was only ever skin-deep, and many secretly called him a tyrant in their hearts. After all, he was an executioner rather than a mere arbiter in their eyes. Therefore, the moment Sirena’s voice pitched in anger, Laurus simply closed his eyes with an inaudible sigh. The rumors she had mentioned, he had no plans on refuting them. He could only comfort himself with the fact that the goddess’ threat did not amount to much. In turn for leaving the jurisdiction over the dead entirely up to him, he had long promised the gods that he would not ever again touch a single toe down upon the soil of the world above. The same went for interfering in the affairs of the other gods. Considering that he had quietly stowed away in the Underworld for so long, he was likely the person least suspected by Cyrus. For the moment. Regardless, he’d keep these words to himself. There was no need to incite the girl further.

As Sirena finally stormed off, Laurus turned back towards the lake, his mouth drawn taut into a grim line. Sternly, he chided, “I take it that your timing was not mere coincidence?”

In response, the lake’s surface became animated with nervous ripples. Seeing this, the god softened his expression. Regardless, he pressed on. “Was it to comfort that child? ...Or were you attempting to convince me to clean my hands of this farce?” Even if the latter were to be the case, he would not back down on his will—not until every man or woman involved in the plot were suppressed.

Reading the deeper meaning laced in his words, the water grew lifeless. Having given up, it soon regressed back to amusing itself by flipping through random streets bustling with people. Or so he thought.

Laurus prepared to leave the lakeside, until a particular scene caught his eye: a lost child wandered the streets, clearly distressed with tears wetting her ashen cheeks. He could not tell whether or not this particular scene was within the lake’s intentions, yet it still managed to ask the lake’s unspoken question.

It was alright for Sirena to hate him, but would his silence come at the expense of disregarding whatever distress or insecurities she may or may not feel? He didn’t wish to liken her to a child, but it was true that she was in a strange place with only a single friend as support. Perhaps it wouldn’t harm his plans to give a little more than a few vague words.

However, it was likely that he had angered the blonde to the point where it was unwise to show his face.

Bearing this in mind, Laurus made his way to his personal office where Timoria awaited. Soon after hearing her report, the god briefly mentioned his intentions to the spirit, and, at his behest, the girl merrily skipped towards her next destination. In the meantime, she had plucked the goddess and her fairy friend’s dinners from the hands of her brother before finally arriving at the room of said pair.

Without waiting for an answer to her cheerful knocking on the door, Timoria made her way inside with an equally happy “hello.” And then she froze.

“Strange...” Timoria muttered hesitantly. Based on her god’s willingness to give the girl some proper answers, she would have thought that the two had come to terms or at least a ceasefire. The stormy expressions on the pair’s faces, however, spoke of an entirely different story.

Ah, she quickly realized, so that’s why he decided to postpone the discussion to tomorrow morning.

As per usual, the girl who boasted a high EQ (at least in comparison to Laurus and Somnium) smoothly covered up her mistakes. “Sorry, my brother is particularly proud of this dish, so I didn’t want it to be served cold.” Fortunately, her words were true, and it clearly showed in the mouth-watering scent wafting from the dish. Though it appeared simple at first glance, the beef and pasta were stewed in a rich tomato sauce base before being sprinkled with a hearty helping of kefalotyri cheese.

Upon setting the tray down on a nearby table, the girl excused herself with an amicable smile. Of course, not without pausing once again at the doorway.

“By the way,” she began slowly, “Lau mentioned that he wanted to talk to you again in the morning—though, well, looking at your expression, I doubt you’re open to that.” As if to emphasize her own distaste at her god’s lack of tact, Timoria gave the goddess a shrug. She then stressed her next word, “BUT,” and paused dramatically with a grin, “he’ll definitely tell you what you want to know...or at least part of it.”

Having said her piece, Timoria curtsied and left the room with a final message: “I’ll take you to where he is in the morning. Just call for my name~” [/div] [/div] [/div]

# AnimeGenork

[/div] [/div]

 

[AnimeGenork]

Sirena

Acacian Goddess of Flowers​

Because of her storming pace, it didn't Sirena that long to return to the room she was sharing with Lily. Her friend didn't even have to ask what was wrong; it came spilling out almost immediately as she entered the room. As she was wont to do whenever Sirena was mad, Lily became enraged as well, and they both ranted at each other about Laurus and his awfulness until they were out of breath.

"It's not like I wanted to go to my mother's stupid birthday festival in the first place, but I certainly didn't want to be kidnapped for no reason, either!" Sirena groaned after a few moments of silence. "And now I'm even angrier because my mother isn't even concerned about me! She just cares about her stupid festival. My only hope is my father, and we both know just how reliable he is." She rolled her eyes. Cyrus was known to be a womanizer and easily distracted by a pretty face. The fact that he was probably the only one who would truly care about her disappearance gave her very little hope of returning to the surface world.

Time passed strangely here, so Sirena couldn't even tell it was evening until Timoria entered the room with two plates of dinner for her and Lily. They glared at the girl, displacing their anger at Laurus unto her because, of course, she was one of his followers. She seemed to get the hint, for she quickly, but not before dropping a bomb: Laurus wanted to talk to her in the morning. With those words hanging in the air, Sirena and Lily stared at each other. Lily was the first to move, rising to retrieve the plates and setting one on Sirena's lap before proceeding to eat her own meal.

Sirena was still speechless as she found the motivation to eat, letting the flavors sink in before slowly swallowing each bite. Lily was long done before Sirena was even halfway through her meal. She set aside the plate anyway--her stomach was too nervous to keep much more down. "He's actually going to tell me what I want to know? Why in the Underworld would he do that?"

"Maybe something you said convinced him. Although I surely wouldn't be convinced if you let your temper get the best of you like you always do," Lily teased, bumping her shoulder against Sirena's. The goddess smiled, if briefly, for she knew the nymph was right. She had been a bit of a brat since she came here, though she knew she was at least a little justified (she was the victim here, after all). Still, the fact that Laurus had finally come to his senses made her nervous. What if the real reason she was here wasn't one she was ready to hear?

Exhausted from the day's... excitement... Sirena laid back on the bed, closing her eyes. "I hope it's not too hard to sleep here," she murmured absentmindedly. "The scent of flowers is missing, but at least this bed is comfy..."

She didn't hear Lily's murmured response, as she was already drifting off to sleep.

~ ~ ~​

There was a brief moment when Sirena woke up and completely forgot where she was. That moment was pure bliss, as she thought perhaps she'd fallen asleep in her secret meadow with Lily... until she realized she was on a bed that definitely wasn't the one she had in her home with Cecilia.

It all came crashing back.

The hole, the fall, the Underworld, Laurus, the asphodel, the lake, the strangely delicious food, the meeting she was supposed to have this morning. Sirena couldn't breathe for a few seconds as her brain caught up with her memories. Placing her hands over her eyes, she focused on her breathing until her heart rate calmed down. By the time the panic attack had passed, Lily was awake and staring at her with a concerned look on her face. "I'm fine." Which was a lie.

Well, it was better now than later. If she waited much longer to go meet Laurus, she would never work up the nerve to do so. So she got out of bed and opened the door to her room. "Ti... Timoria?" she called, somewhat gently, glancing both ways down the hallway. Apparently it was enough, because it wasn't long for the girl to appear. Sirena jumped, but, to keep up appearances of a pissed off teenage goddess, she straightened and fixed the girl with a cool look. "I'm ready."

Sirena followed Timoria down a maze of hallways that she definitely wouldn't be able to navigate later, until she reached what she could only assume was Laurus's office. It was certainly cozier than a throne room, which her father had, but it also meant she was in a smaller, enclosed space with a man she despised. Fine. She could handle this.

She perched on the edge of a chair that was directly across from Laurus, his face equally as annoying as ever. "Alright, I'm here. Say what you want to say and what I want to know. Why the hell am I here and how long do you plan on keeping me here?" Crossing her arms, she scowled at him, waiting for a response she still wasn't certain she wanted to hear.

Nano​

Coding by AnimeGenork ​

 

[Nano]

[class=bg] padding: 50px 0; width: 100%; background-image: url('https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/nxxh8as88lz0nrx/00.Lines.png'); background-color: #f6f6f6; font-size: initial; [/class] [class=right] position: relative; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0 auto; padding: 50px; width: 100%; max-width: 750px; background: #ffffff; border: 1px solid #e3e3e3; [/class] [class=basicimagewrap] position: relative; width: 100%; height: 350px; [/class] [class=focuswrap2] position: absolute; width: 100%; height: 350px; [/class] [class=leftfocus2] float: left; display: flex; flex-direction: column; justify-content: space-between; margin-left: 1px; width: 50px; height: 350px; [/class] [class=rightfocus2] float: right; display: flex; flex-direction: column; justify-content: space-between; margin-right: 1px; width: 50px; height: 350px; [/class] [class=focuscolumn2] width: 50px; height: 50px; [/class] [class=basicimage] display: inline-block; margin: 25px; width: calc(100% - 50px); height: 300px; background: url('https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/1w666qrvl28zkac/LaurusIC.jpg') no-repeat center; background-size: 900px 300px; filter: opacity(95%); [/class] [class=header] width: 100%; font-family: 'Playfair Display', serif; font-weight: bold; text-transform: lowercase; font-variant-caps: normal; font-size: 2.0em; line-height: 80%; color: #444444; text-align: center; [/class] [class=subheader] margin-top: 4px; width: 100%; font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif; font-weight: normal; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 0.7em; line-height: 80%; color: #999999; text-align: center; [/class] [class=box] box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 50px; padding: 25px 20px; width: 100%; border: 1px solid #e3e3e3; font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif; font-size: 0.9em; line-height: 130%; color: #444444; text-align: justify; [/class] [div class=bg] [div class=right] [div class=contentwrap] [div class=basicimagewrap] [div class=focuswrap2] [div class=leftfocus2] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [/div] [div class=rightfocus2] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [div class=focuscolumn2]

[/div] [/div] [/div] [div class=basicimage] [/div] [/div]

[div class=header] laurus

[div class=subheader] GOD OF THE UNDERWORLD [/div] [/div] [div class=basicsR] [div class=box] It is unbefitting of a god to go back on his word.

On some forgotten year prior to Laurus’ descent to the Underworld, he had left Cyrus with such words. Truth be told, it was a phrase that the god had improvised on the spot. Cyrus, knowing this, took no heed to his words. As for Laurus, he continued to abide by it as if his livelihood depended on that single phrase. Following said expectation was as natural as breathing—he had always been a fair observer and arbiter at his core. However, now, he was faced with one of those scarce moments in which he regretted a promise he had made.

His lips bent into a tight frown. While his old friend had convinced him that Sirena had a right to know her situation, he doubted she would be very pleased to hear his explanations. Admittedly, his reasons were nothing as near gallant as merely being for the goddess’ safety. He would have sent her right to her father’s side in that case. Though he did not care much for the blonde’s opinions of him, he at least hoped his words wouldn’t embolden any plans of hers to escape.

With these thoughts in mind, the God of the Underworld stared blankly at the Goddess of Flowers as she marched into his office stiffly and immediately demanded answers. Contrary to the blonde’s wishes, Laurus merely closed the scroll he had previously been writing in. It was only when he placed down his pen with a soft plink and dismissed Timoria with a slight wave of his hand that his expression showed a preparedness to speak.

“Humans, whether good or evil, are foolish creatures. Their ability to grasp opportunities paves the way to advancement, but this ambition and greed tends to make them blind to the consequences.” he said half-absentmindedly, not caring for whether or not the blonde would be taken aback at how he appeared to be speaking of something completely unrelated to her predicament. “Unfortunately, the gods are equally as self-centered and petty: when the woman Alexius had fancied refused to return his love, he cursed her so that no one would believe her prophecies; when a man said Eulalia was more beautiful than Sophia, Sophia incited an entire, bloody war."

Laurus examined the goddess’ face closely to observe whether or not she was following his words. Then, he finally breached the core of Sirena’s inquiries: "Weeks ago, I happened to hear strange murmurings amongst the ghosts waiting to be judged: someone had conspired to kidnap a certain goddess to collect a ransom from her father."

The words “that goddess is you” seemed to hang in the air ominously. Though it was not his intention, his wording made it seem as if he were blaming the blond for the matter, turning the atmosphere heavy.

Neither noticing nor minding this, continued onwards with a rare troubled expression. "Initially, I had believed no human would possess the audacity to touch the gods, but I observed strange movements around and about that goddess during the weeks following. Stranger yet was that I could never pinpoint the puppetmaster behind this scheme, as if there is some other entity aiding the humans."

Laurus paused for the nth time that morning. For a brief moment, he was hesitant to say his next words. After all, it was a grave matter to insult a god, even if you were a god yourself, not to mention this was a matter concerning Sirena’s father. Nevertheless, what must be said must be said, and he continued boldly. "As the ruler of the sky, Cyrus is one of the most prideful of the gods. Should mere mortals dare to threaten him yet successfully evade his grasp, I do not doubt that he will smite or curse every passerby and village that appears the least bit suspicious. Whatever Cyrus may think of them, every human has a right to life. It is a balance that must not be touched. Even angry gods have no business altering a human’s fate."

Laurus’ gaze suddenly turned devoid of any signs of emotions.

"I brought you here, where everyone would least suspect you to be, on that kind of whim." [/div] [/div] [/div]

# AnimeGenork

[/div] [/div]

 

[AnimeGenork]

Sirena

Acacian Goddess of Flowers​

Despite being a goddess and therefore immortal, Sirena was impatient. She knew this; her mother had told her as much multiple times during her childhood. Her father said she got it from him. Still, did Laurus have to be so slow to close his damn scroll and set down his damn pen? She watched these actions through narrowed eyes, only widening them enough to inspect his expression when it seemed he was finally going to speak.

At first, she was confused. Why was she speaking about how foolish humans were? She opened her mouth to say something to interrupt him, but quickly closed it, knowing that would be pointless. He was on a roll, as it were, and she had a feeling that he would eventually reach the point she actually cared about.

His comparison of humans to gods, she knew, was quite accurate, though she frowned at the brief history lesson. Her mother had told her all about her distant half-siblings, with whom she’d barely shared more than a family meal. Alexius was bearable… sometimes, but Sophia was such a know-it-all she really could have dealt without her presence entirely. She’d never had the displeasure of meeting Eulalia.

Finally, he reached the crux of his explanation, and Sirena leaned forward, as if that would help her hear better, despite her hearing being perfectly normal. Her eyebrows raised at the mention of ransom; of course, she knew that was just the way things worked when your father was the king of the gods. The protectiveness her mother exhibited during her childhood had only cemented how dangerous her existence could be. Frankly, she was surprised nothing of note had happened so far.

She was, however, mildly offended that her very existence seemed to be something he could blame for all this. Jerk.

As he continued, Sirena’s mind churned. If a human wasn’t simply rebelling by threatening her and her father, then who was it? Cyrus had plenty of enemies, many of them inhuman, and some of them fellow gods. His brothers and sisters rarely spoke to him—for all she knew, this was all a coup against the king of the Acacian gods.

This time, when Laurus paused, Sirena wasn’t annoyed. She was starting to feel sick to her stomach. And when the rest of the explanation came, she closed her eyes, nausea roiling through her stomach. He’d kidnapped her because otherwise, her father would terrorize those who worshipped him. Havoc would ensue, and Acacia would be thrown into chaos.

All this… because someone had been planning to get to her first?

She swallowed before she spoke. “I see. Are you any closer to discovering the identity of the one who wanted to take me?” Lifting her eyes to Laurus, she wrung her hands as she asked, “Do you… need help with that? I mean, I don’t know everything about my father, but my mother has told me some things, and Cyrus has certainly mentioned some questionable things he’s done that have made others angry…”

With a sigh, she added more quietly, “If I can help, I want to. It would at least feel like I’m more useful. This is, after all, kind of my fault. Although, I’m not sure existing can ever be anyone’s fault, but…” She trailed off, her thoughts swirling in dizzying fashion.

Things had been so much simpler yesterday, even with the whole kidnapping thing.

Nano​

Coding by AnimeGenork ​

 

[Nano]

laurus;

god of the underworld

Unsurprisingly, the goddess’s expression made it plain to see that she found the information he gave unpleasant. Her annoyance, distaste, and nausea were the exact reasons why he had held such information from her before. What Laurus hadn’t expected, however, was for the blonde to offer her assistance in resolving the matter. For all her previous anger and indignance, her tenacious mentality far exceeded his expectations. While silently apologizing for expecting so little of her maturity, he tapped his finger against his desk to contemplate how to answer her offer to help.

“It is almost certainly an inside job,” Laurus said hesitantly. Though the mere suggestion was treasonous in nature, the situation would have panned out as the usual if otherwise. Attempts to harm a god weren’t common, but they weren’t scarce either. Had a mere congregation of mortals conspired together to kidnap a goddess, the rebellion would have been quashed immediately. He lifted his gaze to meet Sirena’s. “Has Cyrus broken any major promises as of late? In particular, I am seeking news of gods or heroes whom he has given his blessings only to be cast aside the moment they lost their use.”

As the most fickle of the gods, Laurus wasn’t expecting much of a positive answer. He wasn’t always aware of what occurred on the surface, but Cyrus’s temperament made it easy to guess that the people he offended in such a way were a dime a dozen. Still, taking down one or two names was better than having no leads at all. Then, a thought that had frequented his mind cropped up once again, causing the god to furrow his brows.

“Or…” Laurus trailed off, as if not wishing to believe in his next words himself, “there may be a traitor in the Underworld itself. Given the cultists’ resourcefulness so far, it would be foolish to factor out the possibility that they foresaw me bringing you here.”

But who could it be? The various monsters and wicked humans chained up in the Underworld’s deepest layers had little freedom to move about, while he couldn’t put a finger on any others with a motive or the audacity to aid in the kidnapping of Sirena.

Laurus heaved a tired sigh and threaded his fingers together on his desk. As a final note, he left the goddess with a warning and a request: “If anyone in the Underworld asks to speak with you aside from Somnium, Timoria, or me, notify me immediately. Please.”

AnimeGenork

 

[AnimeGenork]

Sirena

Acacian Goddess of Flowers​

She honestly wasn’t expecting him to take her offer seriously. Sirena knew the drill—she was far too long to worry about such “adult” matters, she didn’t know what she was talking about, she should stick to flowers. But Laurus hadn’t said any of those things, and instead presented her with something to think about.

Unfortunately, it was a very broad something.

Her father was known for… well, being a jerk. So she didn’t have a ready list of promises he’d broken. “Most of the promises he’s broken lately are for appearances at festivals, not to mention promises to come visit me. But I wouldn’t kidnap myself over that, so…” She considered. “I’m sure there was at least some hero or god or other he’s pissed off lately that’s gone off the map. Lily might know more about that than me; I can ask her if she’s heard anything.”

But naturally, that would’ve been too easy—considering her disappearance, her mother might already be pursuing such a lead. Still, it couldn’t hurt to look into all of such leads, just in case the most obvious answer was the one that made the most sense.

“You think someone here might be targeting me? Will… will I be safe here?” The very idea that being under Laurus’s protection didn’t guarantee her safety suddenly made her more nervous than she’d been when he’d first told her he was protecting her from the real threat. At this point, Sirena could only hope that Laurus would find whoever it was quickly and squash the threat.

Her eyes shot up as Laurus spoke again, and she nodded almost too rapidly. “I will, I promise. Not that I would speak to anyone else in a place like this.”

It appeared the conversation was over. Sirena stood and nodded her head to him in a jerky motion before making her way back to her room. Her conversation with Laurus swirled through her head over and over as she nervously avoided any servants who didn’t look familiar. Any one of them could be plotting to cause her harm, after all.

She was wholly prepared to ask Lily right away about the promises Cyrus had broken recently, but as soon as she entered her room, something was wrong.

Lily was gone.

“Uh… Somnium? Timoria? Wh-where’s Lily?”

Ah yes, nothing like an incoming panic attack to make you feel better about being a target of a cult.

Nano​

Coding by AnimeGenork ​

 

[Nano]

laurus;

god of the underworld

The dull ache in his head came back full force. Sirena’s answer to his inquiry was vague at best, not that he had expected much in the first place. Cyrus was notorious for offending a number of individuals greater than the stars that could be counted upon the veil of the night sky, but he had hoped that one or two of them might have distinguished themselves from the rest. The promise of asking the blonde’s fairy friend for more information did little to assuage his worries.

Pushing the issue of Cyrus’s frivolousness aside, Cyrus nodded grimly to affirm that he had no guarantee that every soul down in the Underworld was firmly in his grip, as embarrassing as it was to admit. His enemies were far less than a certain aforementioned god’s, but as an arbiter whose punishments were as harsh as his trials were equal, there were bound to be individuals detained in the deepest depths of the Underworld bearing particularly strong grudges. Whether they be human or something more otherworldly, every living and breathing creature held their fair share of desires and fears. The ominous whispers echoing up from the abyss loved to pull upon the weakest links within their hearts, cajoling them with promises to fulfill said desires if they did their bidding. One particularly bold individual had even been convinced to attempt on Laurus’s life, so being convinced to kidnap a goddess wasn’t as far-fetched as one might wish to believe.

At the very least, it was comforting that the goddess in question had agreed to remain wary of strange faces within the Underworld. Regardless, he had his work cut out for him.

---

The moment Somnium’s name left Sirena’s lips, the air a few feet in front of the blonde briefly wavered, and the servant suddenly made his appearance in the room seemingly out of thin air.

“You called?” Somnium asked, his eyes sweeping through the room for the missing Lily. Should Sirena have observed carefully, an almost panicked look flashed through his eyes, but his unsettled expression disappeared as soon as it had appeared, replaced by his usual stoic calm. Using the most polite tone he could muster, the man lightly gestured towards the door. “I do not mean to be presumptuous, but your talk with our god lasted for longer than you might think. Staying alone in an unfamiliar room likely made her feel anxious. As for Timoria...my sister often claims that I am a bore to converse with, so perhaps she had invited your friend out for a walk.”

Secretly, Somnium hoped that was all there was to this incident. However, he kept his thoughts unvoiced in hopes it would bring a little relief to the blonde’s state of panic.

“Perhaps the Lake of Far Sight might give us some insight as to their location,” Somnium added helpfully, “the pool you came across yesterday.”

AnimeGenork