A Game of Retribution (Hades Saga, #2)

by Scarlett St. Clair

“What do you want, Rich One?” Lachesis snapped. “Why have you—?” “Lexa Sideris,” Hades said, cutting Atropos off. “Is she the soul you chose to complete the bargain?” The Fates had said that Briareus’s life would cost him dearly. Lexa’s death would have consequences that echoed far beyond Persephone’s relationship with the mortal. After tonight, it was clear it would also impact Persephone’s relationship with him. “A mortal in exchange for an immortal?” asked Atropos. “That is hardly fair, Lord of the Dead,” said Clotho. “Completely unreasonable,” agreed Lachesis. “No, dear king, the end of Briareus’s life must give life to another immortal. That is the bargain we’ve struck.” There was a part of him that felt relief at hearing he was not responsible for Lexa’s accident and subsequent limbo, but a new anxiety filled him at the prospect of an immortal life being born or taken as a result of Briareus’s death, though he always knew it was a possibility. As much as he wanted to ask them who—which immortal they had chosen—he knew the question was futile. “Do not fret, Good Counselor,” said Clotho. “Your bargain with Briareus,” said Lachesis. “Will only ruin your life,” said Atropos.