Summary
Highlights
Zeus, sitting on his throne, is interrupted by the ominous arrival of Thanatos, Hades' servant. Thanatos, bedecked in black armor, delivers a demand from Hades for Zeus and Poseidon to meet him on Mount Ares in one moon's time. Zeus senses a challenge, and his wife's mental communication confirms the gravity of the situation, urging caution.
After dismissing the court, Zeus discusses Hades' unexpected demand with his wife. She expresses concern, noting Hades' unusual behavior. Zeus denies any wrongdoing. His wife advises him to approach Hades with humility and to bring their children, Athena and Ares, as a show of force and as witnesses. Zeus agrees to her counsel.
A moon later, Zeus, accompanied by Athena and Ares, arrives on Mount Ares, finding Poseidon already present and exhibiting a smirk. Poseidon questions Zeus's choice to bring 'attack dogs', to which Zeus replies they are witnesses. The ground shakes, and a crack appears, from which Styx and Hades' formidable entourage emerge, shadowed by Erebus and Nyx. Hades arrives in a chariot, appearing as a warrior. Poseidon, amused, takes a seat.
Zeus greets Hades warmly, but Hades immediately rebukes him for his perceived lack of respect. Athena steps forward to defend Zeus, but Hades silences her, accusing Zeus of failing his kingly duties. Zeus, surprised, demands to know how he has broken their compact. Hades reveals his fury is due to Asclepius, Apollo's son and Zeus's grandson, who has not only peddled his trade but has begun stealing souls from the underworld by bringing mortals back to life. Zeus, genuinely unaware, swears on the River Styx. Hades, though doubtful, delivers a stark warning: the situation with Asclepius must end, or Zeus's rule will.