Page 236 of Hekate: The Witch (Goddesses of the Underworld #1)

‘What Are You Doing Here?’

His voice carried to us

and we turned. He had been standing

at the head of his dragon,

preparing to plant more roses.

A rose for every mortal that died.

This place was more red than black now.

It was tender in the way Thanatos

did not like to admit that he was.

‘I need your permission,’

I said as we approached him.

Hermes, to his credit, was still quiet.

Thanatos smiled only at me.

‘What kind of permission is that?’

Thanatos asked me easily,

but he was looking at Hermes

with a deep suspicion.

‘There is another immortal war

about to erupt and I need your permission ,’

I repeated, this time with emphasis.

His eyes widened as Hermes nodded,

testifying to my words.

‘How can I help, Hekate?’

Thanatos’ voice was firm now.

I smiled at him and told him my plan.