Chapter 34: Back in the Fold

Hades POV

The entire family gathered inside the main chamber, awaiting Zillah’s arrival. Hades fussed with lighting the candles and making the incense smell particularly pleasing. 

Brutus and Kage flanked Hades as his muscle and enforcers. Brutus seemed especially chipper after the private time he’d spent with Hades and Zillah. The muscular man had a proud lift to his chin. Behind them, Hades’ latest female conquest, Martita Ducrest, tended the fire while gazing at Hades in a demure come-hither kind of way. 

One of the guards came rushing into the room, nearly tripping over her feet. “They were attacked! They’re on their way.”

Hades spoke calmly. “Zombies?”

“No. Barrenites,” the guard panted. “But our people weren’t badly wounded.”

Footsteps echoed in the entrance cavern outside. Sensing Cyran drawing near through the bond, Hades grinned.