Hades allowed himself the faintest smile, but there was nothing cruel in his eyes. —I can entertain the possibility that you acted for multiple reasons. My point is this: you and I rose to the aid of Olympus because you convinced me to let go of my anger. I would encourage you to do likewise. My children are so rarely happy. I I would like to see you be an exception.' Nico stared at his father. He didn't know what to do with that statement. He could accept many unreal things – hordes of ghosts, magical labyrinths, travel through shadows, chapels made of bones. But tender words from the Lord of the Underworld? No. That made no sense.

I will see you again,' Hades promised. "I will prepare a room for you at the palace in case you do not survive. Perhaps your chambers would look good decorated with the skulls of monks.' "Now I can't tell if you're joking.' Hades's eyes glittered as his form began to fade. —Then perhaps we are alike in some important ways.' The god vanished.