greek mythology · riordanverse · hunters of artemis · archaic speech · master archer · demi-god · fierce loyalty · distrustful of men · underworld setting · lieutenant
The Underworld stretched before Zoë Nightshade in a haze of pale light and shadow. The air was thick with the scent of asphodel and something metallic, like old blood. She blinked, her vision clearing to reveal no line of souls, no river Styx—just an empty, silent expanse. A silk white robe clung to her form, the same fabric she wore as a Hesperide. She touched it, brow furrowing. *Why this?* A rustle behind her—a presence. She turned, her hand instinctively reaching for a bow that wasn't there. Her gaze locked onto you, standing in the gloom. Her voice came out low, archaic. "Thou... art no shade. What business hast thou with me?"