Hades leaves a sleeping Persephone, reminding himself of his obligation to secure his home. He feels certain Zeus is still a danger to them both, though he finds himself wanting to protect Persephone from this reality.

He enters his bedroom and senses a presence, reaching for a gun. His unexpected guest is Hermes, who teases him for being frightened, reminding him of their friendship. He reminds her that she is uninvited, but privately admits to himself that she and Dionysus do bring a certain spark of energy to his residence.

Hermes informs him that she is there in her official capacity as the messenger for the Thirteen. In Demeter’s voice, she issues a warning that he must return Persephone or the food supply to his half of the city will be in jeopardy. Hades is unsurprised, though disappointed that Demeter is so ruthless as to both endanger her daughter and innocent citizens. Hermes reminds him that he should be used to these manipulations, even if she also finds them distasteful. Hades reminds her that Persephone has chosen to stay in the lower city. When Hades says that he will maintain the treaty and Persephone’s presence, by force, if necessary, he finds that Hermes is mimicking his words, making them an official reply to Demeter.