Chapter 12

The skeletal carriage rattled through the streets of Hell, flanked by molten rivers and jagged cliffs. The chaotic city stretched beneath a blood-red sky, glowing with the flicker of infernal flames. I gazed out of the small window, my thoughts swirling. These people—no, these beings—had been waiting for me, perhaps for centuries.

Zoth sat beside me, his horns now fully extended, as if the infernal realm allowed him to reveal his true form without hesitation. "It's been too long, your majesty," he said, his voice tinged with nostalgia. "The streets were never this lively, not even in Hell's golden age. Your presence alone has stirred them to life."

I let out a soft sigh. "I wish I could share their excitement, Zoth. I failed them once. I'm not sure I'm ready to lead them again."

Zoth's expression softened, but he said nothing. Instead, he flicked the reins, urging the skeletal horse onward.

The carriage slowed as we approached the massive iron gates of the castle. It was a towering structure, its jagged spires scraping the crimson sky. The gates groaned open, revealing an immense courtyard lined with kneeling demons. Each one bowed their heads in unison as the carriage passed.

I stepped out, feeling dwarfed by the grandeur of the castle. A cold wind swept through the courtyard, carrying whispers of my name. With Zoth guiding me, I ascended the obsidian steps and entered the great hall.

Inside, the air was thick with heat and magic. Torches lined the walls, burning with eerie blue flames. At the end of the hall stood a massive throne carved from blackened stone, and seated upon it was Tartarus.

The minotaur demon rose as I entered, his towering frame casting a shadow over the room. His crimson fur gleamed in the firelight, and his sharp golden eyes locked onto me. In one hand, he held a colossal warhammer, its surface etched with glowing runes.

"Your majesty," Tartarus said, his deep voice resonating through the hall. He knelt, lowering his massive head. "You have returned to us."

I hesitated before stepping forward. "Tartarus," I said softly, keeping my voice steady despite the weight of the moment. "It's been a long time."

"It has been an eternity," Tartarus replied, rising to his full height. He motioned for me to follow him, leading me to a smaller, more private chamber.

The room was far less intimidating than the throne hall. A circular table stood in the center, surrounded by chairs carved from obsidian. Tartarus gestured for me to sit, and Zoth took his place by the door, standing guard.

"So much has changed since your departure," Tartarus began, his tone almost gentle. "Hell has endured, but it has been directionless. Without your guidance, we have lost our purpose. The other realms have grown bold, encroaching on our borders. I've done what I can to maintain order, but…" He trailed off, his gaze heavy.

I folded my hands in my lap. "I never intended to abandon you," I said, my voice filled with regret. "My death was… necessary. To save the mortal world."

"I do not blame you, my lady," Tartarus said, his tone sincere. "But now that you have returned, the balance can be restored. Stay here. Rule as you were meant to. We need you."

His words made my heart sink. "I can't, Tartarus. I have a new life now, a family. They need me too."

Tartarus's expression darkened, his tone sharp. "Those humans? They are insignificant compared to your duties as a goddess. If they stand in your way, I will—"

"Enough!" I snapped, my voice ringing with authority. I stood, meeting his golden eyes with a glare. "Do not threaten my family. If you so much as lay a hand on them, you will answer to me."

Tartarus flinched, his massive form shrinking under my gaze. He lowered his head, his voice trembling with shame. "Forgive me, your majesty. My words were spoken in frustration, not malice. I would never harm your loved ones."

I let out a slow breath, my posture relaxing slightly. "I know you mean well, Tartarus, but I've made my decision. My place is not here."

The minotaur sighed deeply, the sound reverberating through the chamber. "Very well. But know this: Hell will always be your home. And should you ever need us, we will stand by your side."

I nodded, my heart heavy but resolute. "Thank you, Tartarus. I won't forget that."

As the meeting ended, Tartarus escorted me back to the carriage. The demons outside cheered as I departed, their voices echoing through the fiery streets. I glanced back at the towering castle one last time, the weight of their expectations lingering in my mind.

As the skeletal carriage rattled back toward the mortal realm, I looked out at the city disappearing into the distance. "Goodbye, Hell," I whispered to myself. "I hope you can find peace without me."