Two Odd Princes ~ A Solangelo AU ~

Chapter 48

The next morning, both Will and Nico's parents met in Apollo's office. Thanatos accompanied Hades and Persephone in hopes that the two of them could get Hades to act rationally. Chances were, however, extremely slim.

Apollo and Naomi were waiting when the three arrived, both dressed as though this was a negotiation. For them, it was.

"Now that we've had a day to think about this," Hades started, taking a seat for himself, "I hope that we can come to an agreement."

"As do I," Apollo agreed.

"Something needs to be done about the boys. There's no way they can be together. It's socially unacceptable and revolting. I'm sorry my son has done such a thing to Will. He seemed like such a good kid."

Under the desk, Apollo squeezed his hands together tightly. Naomi, who was sitting beside him, noticed but refrained from saying anything. Now wasn't the time to intervene. At least, not at the moment.

"I disagree," Apollo countered. "The boys seem very happy together. In love, even. Why separate them? We could alter the arrangement that we have. Say, the boys could marry each other. Then we still get what we wanted."

Hades glared. "My son will not be marrying any man so long as I'm alive, nor shall I let him be with any man."

Apollo matched his look, taking a deep breath while thinking his words over. He knew dealing with Hades would be extremely difficult but not this difficult. The other man wasn't going to budge, not even the slightest.

"So we separate them, let's say that. Then what? Bianca and Will won't be happy in their marriage and Nico will be going back to whatever it was before but with a broken heart. No one will gain anything from this other than hurt feelings. Is that what you want?"

"Do you remember why we made this arrangement in the first place, Apollo?" Hades asked, feeling as though he had the upper hand. "We had goals in mind when we signed that agreement two years ago. Will and Bianca would marry to strengthen our alliance and our children would have children together to secure your throne. In return for this, you'd share your doctors and military generals so that my people can get a better education and training."

"My son's happiness is the greatest goal I have. I could care less about the others."

"Meaning?"

"Meaning I'm willing to cancel the wedding as well as tear up that contract I signed two years ago."

"That would be a declaration of war," Hades warned in a dangerous tone. "Is that one of your goals?"

"No, but it can be added."

Now it time for Naomi to cut in. Persephone had the same thought.

"Boys," Naomi said in a calming voice, "let's think this through. Is there really a need for violence?"

"She's right," Persephone backed her up, gently taking her husband's hand. "When has war settled any disagreements? Don't you agree, Thanatos?"

Th advisor had been standing behind Hades and Persephone, silent and observing the whole time. When asked by the queen, he gave his honest opinion.

"War never solves anything."

"Exactly," both women said.

"So let's all take a minute and think this through, alright?" Naomi suggested. "In fact, I'll have someone bring up tea."

"That sounds lovely, dear," Apollo commented. Just from a glance he already looked exhausted.

Naomi left the room and as soon as the door shut, it opened again with Persephone running after her. She looked just as stressed as Naomi felt.