Chapter 78 (End)

Light shone at his fingertips, warming her body.

Hermes, Apollo, and other gods rushed to Crete overnight, but were turned away by the nymphs guarding the island, who demanded that they wait until the next morning to be allowed to enter the abode of the Earth Mother.

So they had no choice but to do as they were told, and they waited outside Crete until dawn.

Compared to before, Crete now presents an unnatural stillness under the sunlight. The once fertile land is covered by a thin mist, and the place where the Tree of Life is located is shrouded in a hazy golden-green light, as if it were an isolated realm cut off from the world.

Hermes, Apollo, Artemis, Athena, and Hebe stood at the entrance to the Sanctuary, while Pan was left in a safe area a little further away, guarded by several nymphs.

These nature spirits still chose to remain loyal to Gaia; their longing and love for her were innate.

“The atmosphere here has changed.” Athena keenly sensed the difference. “The power of the earth is actively isolating itself from the outside world.”

Artemis looked around warily: "I can't sense any animal presence, not even insects."

Hebe gripped the golden cup tightly, the sacred spring inside rippling slightly, reflecting her tense expression.

Apollo looked at Hermes and found her with her eyes closed, her chest rising and falling slowly with each deep breath. When those emerald eyes opened again, they held an indescribable serenity.

“Gaia has been waiting for me,” Hermes said, her expression complex. “It all comes down to this.”

Apollo patted Hermes on the shoulder, offering her silent comfort.

That is beyond doubt.

Gaia had been waiting for Hermes even before Hermes was born.

She often heard the call of the Earth Mother. When she first encountered it, she only felt a sense of holiness, but now she felt countless sorrows.

As they entered Gaia's sacred domain, the mist parted automatically, revealing a path leading to the Tree of Life.

The giant tree was even taller than when I last saw it, its branches and leaves almost blocking out half the sky, and the veins on its trunk seemed to flow with liquid gold, or like the blood of a god.

Beneath the tree, the figure of the Earth Goddess gradually took shape from the blurry light and shadow. She stood there quietly, her features becoming clearer and clearer.

Gaia still looked mature and dignified, but she was no longer dressed like an ordinary working woman; instead, she had become more natural. Her thick, long, brown hair cascaded down to her ankles like vines. She wore a crown of wheat ears and a robe woven from green leaves, flowers, and soil. She stood barefoot on the exposed tree roots.

Those eyes were sometimes a vibrant emerald green, sometimes as clear as a spring. If she weren't still rational, she would have returned to her origin and made the whole world feel the earth's wrath.

[Homage to the Earth Goddess! Oh my god, I really love her, but I'm also afraid of her.]

[Human nature... no! Snake nature!]

"You've arrived."

Gaia spoke, her tone as gentle as ever, yet it seemed to make the air tremble.

She had long anticipated this day would come.

Hermes stepped forward and bowed respectfully: "Greetings, revered and beloved goddess Gaia, please forgive us."

Gaia's gaze swept over every deity present, lingering on Hebe for a moment before finally settling on Hermes, the child she had chosen.

The gaze contained a complex mix of emotions—a mixture of scrutiny, disappointment, and a certain almost loving expectation.

“You chose betrayal, my child.” Gaia’s tone was unreadable. “You even used the power of Tartarus.”

Even though Gaia was extremely angry when Hermes sought help from Tartarus, she doesn't seem to hold a grudge at this moment.

“I am deeply honored that you have all chosen me.” Hermes looked directly into Gaia’s eyes without flinching. Now she was going to get straight to the point: “I am very grateful for everything you have given me, but if I may be frank, I cannot condone your plan to destroy the world.”

She really went all out; this was the biggest adventure she had ever taken since birth.

“Destruction?” Gaia smiled, as if examining a bewildered child, the Tree of Life behind her swaying. “So you really call this destruction?”

In the eyes of Mother Earth, this was clearly purification and rebirth, a new life being born from decay, because there was strife and chaos among all living beings, and order was collapsing.

Before Chaos disappeared completely, he entrusted the world to Gaia's care, and she naturally had a responsibility to correct everything that had gone astray.

She cannot let Him down.

Before Hermes could speak again, Athena spoke up to help.

"Respected Goddess Gaia, we acknowledge that the world is imperfect, but it is precisely because of this that we need to strive to improve it, rather than destroy it completely."

“Improvement…” Gaia was still smiling, but there was no smile in her eyes. “I have given you opportunities before.”

Gaia once had Prometheus create the humans of the Golden Age, who were innocent and pure, but perished with the fall of Cronus.

After Zeus ascended the throne, she tacitly approved the birth of the Silver Humans. However, these humans were completely different from their predecessors. They inherited all the shortcomings of the gods. Even with the guidance of gods such as Athena, Prometheus, and Hermes, Gaia was still anxious.

Zeus, however, chose to test her attitude by destroying the Silver Men.

She has been waiting patiently for so long, but all she has received is disappointment after disappointment.

Hermes sensed Gaia's thoughts and her heart tightened.

“No, Goddess Gaia,” Hermes said gently. “We will not let everything you have worked so hard to create be destroyed. The world is already changing, and you can see it.”

Artemis gripped her bow tightly: "Besides, you shouldn't have manipulated monsters to harm us!"

The goddess of the hunt is clearly referring to the harm done to her brother, Hermes, and the natural realm she governs by Typhoon, and even subtly hints that more monsters may appear.

Because the life that Gaia conceived was not limited to gods.

“I remember your mother, who also suffered greatly during childbirth.” Gaia looked at the righteous daughter of Leto. “I have given birth to many beings, most of whom have strayed from my original intentions.”

Hermes keenly caught a hint of weariness in Gaia's tone; the immortal Mother Earth had experienced too much disappointment over the endless years.

That's why Gaia chose Hermes; she hoped that the child she had created with all her heart and soul could realize the ideals she herself had failed to achieve.

In Gaia's eyes, this child was different from others.

Hermes was the child of Zeus and Maia, and also the child of Gaia. She was nature itself, yet she was also kind and virtuous to all living beings, intelligent, innocent, free, and responsible.

Gaia always thought that the child, under her influence, would be able to understand her and inherit her will.

“I understand you.” Hermes sensed Gaia’s thoughts again and said sincerely, “I understand your dissatisfaction with the current state of the world and your desire to create a better order, but I really cannot agree with your methods.”

Hermes walked forward until she was only a few steps away from Gaia.

Apollo instinctively wanted to follow, but reason prevailed over emotion, and he calmly realized that this was a confrontation between Hermes and Gaia.

Success or failure hinges on this moment.

He believed in her, his little strategist.

"Respected Gaia, please give us a chance."

Hermes had already devised a plan. She could tell that Gaia was probably just as exhausted as Tartarus, so this plan had a very high chance of success.

“An opportunity?” Gaia’s eyes began to linger on the emerald green.

Seeing a glimmer of hope, Hermes continued, "Yes, please give us a chance to prove ourselves to you. This is what I, Apollo, Athena, Prometheus, and the others have always insisted on."

"We can make the world a better place without destruction, but by guiding and changing it."

“Prove it?” Gaia’s tone was still extremely gentle, and it didn’t seem like she was questioning him. “So, my child, how do you intend to prove it?”

“One hundred years,” Hermes said firmly. “Just give me one hundred years.”

Upon hearing this, everyone except Gaia and Apollo was somewhat surprised.

"In this century, I will work with Apollo, Athena, Artemis, Hebe, and all the gods who are willing to participate. We will guide the gods to improve their behavior, help beings, especially humans, to truly grow, and much more."

“You will witness our efforts as the overseer. If, after a hundred years, the world still does not meet your expectations, then…” Hermes took a deep breath and said this in front of everyone: “Then I will voluntarily give up resistance and accept your will.”

In an instant, the entire island of Crete seemed to fall into silence, and even the Tree of Life seemed to stop swaying, waiting for Gaia's answer.

Apollo's heart raced; he could foresee countless possible outcomes of the proposal, including some perilous variables.

But he knew all too well that this was the most sincere promise Hermes could offer.

Gaia gazed at Hermes, her eyes, which carried the memories of the earth, seemed to see through everything.

She made a promise to her without fear or hesitation.

“A hundred years…” Gaia repeated softly, “is but a blink of an eye for the immortals.”

“Yes, but that’s enough to change things.” Hermes smiled slightly, her cheerful demeanor returning. “Just like my birth, which, in a short time, has already altered the course of many things.”

"Isn't that right, Goddess Gaia?"

"Aren't you proud of me?"

Those present: "..."

Wait, what's gotten into Hermes all of a sudden? She's so incredibly confident!

But in just a moment, everyone accepted it, after all, that's just how Hermes is.

Gaia smiled, turning her gaze to the young, handsome man beside Hermes who had once offended her: "Apollo, son of Leto, you can foresee the future. Tell me, how likely do you think Hermes' plan is to succeed?"

Apollo, suddenly brought up, lowered his eyes slightly and replied, "I see countless possibilities, and Hermes is incredibly important in every one of them."

Really? Am I that important to that silly goose?

Hermes tilted her head.

At the same time, Athena continued, "Violent destruction will only bring new violence; what we need is lasting peace."

Artemis also solemnly said, "I have witnessed the birth and death of countless lives, and every life should find its own way out. Gaia, what do you think?"

Even Hebe mustered her courage and said in a soft but clear voice, "Goddess Gaia, I also beg you to give us a chance. I... I have just learned to create, and I don't want to be forced to accept the end of everything without even having tried."

The scene of them speaking one after another seemed so distant, so distant that it seemed to have turned into a halo in the sky, small and shining.

After Hebe said those words, Gaia remained silent for a moment.

Then, Hermes gripped her caduceus tightly and asked earnestly, "Goddess Gaia, what do you think?"

Gaia's gaze swept across the faces of every deity present, finally returning to Hermes.

After a long while, she sighed softly, a sigh that seemed to come from the depths of the earth, carrying the weight of billions of years.

She has lived far too long.

“I have placed high hopes on many beings,” Gaia said slowly, still with great patience.

Uranus promised to sow love and peace, Cronus proclaimed the establishment of eternal order, and Zeus vowed to bring just prosperity... but they all disappointed Gaia.

"Hermes, what makes you think you're different?"

Gaia was indeed somewhat moved.

She wasn't really going to act recklessly and arbitrarily.

Hermes thought for a moment and gave an unexpected answer: "I am not perfect, and I may not be able to solve all problems. All I can promise is to do my best and never give up trying."

"I will never stop pursuing better possibilities; curiosity, a thirst for exploration, and courage are always the best!"

As she spoke, Hermes glanced at Apollo beside her, only to find that he was staring intently at her.

A genuine emotional fluctuation finally surfaced in Gaia's eyes; she seemed to be surprised and thus slightly moved.

She approved of her.

“You are very smart,” Gaia commented.

Hermes promised not the outcome, but only the process, which in some ways was more sincere and earnest than any grand vow, and more likely to move Gaia.

The light from the Tree of Life gradually softened, and the thin mist enveloping the sacred realm began to dissipate.

Gaia's figure became clearer and more approachable.

“I’m giving you a chance, Hermes. I will give you one hundred years,” Gaia finally announced. “During this time, I will not actively interfere with the development of the world, but I will keep an eye on it. After one hundred years, I will make a judgment based on the true situation.”

Gaia had long been accustomed to being a behind-the-scenes observer, and she was always very patient.

This time, a cute little thing will truly grant her wish.

Hermes was almost moved to tears of joy. She had really won the opportunity, and the feeling of pride and happiness was simply incredible!

She suppressed her strong emotions and bowed respectfully: "Thank you for your tolerance and trust. We will certainly not let you down!"

“But there is one condition,” Gaia added with a smile, “Pan must stay by my side and be personally educated by me.”

Pan? Leave him with Gaia?

Hermes was stunned.

Gaia nodded: "That child also needs proper guidance. While you are busy changing the world for the past century, let me teach him."

"..."

Apollo gently grasped Hermes' hand, silently conveying his support.

They all understood that this was both Gaia's way of monitoring Pan and her way of protecting him, or rather, investing in him.

Hermes hesitated for a moment, then nodded and said, "I agree. Pan needs guidance, and you are undoubtedly the most suitable person."

Gaia's eyes lit up with satisfaction as she slowly retreated back to the Tree of Life, her gentle voice lingering in the air: "Then, I'll be waiting, my dear children..."

In an instant, the Tree of Life burst forth with unprecedented light, within which countless images could be vaguely seen flowing by, but they could not see them clearly.

As they were leaving Crete, Pan mustered the courage to ask Hermes for a hug, and she agreed.

"Stay here and enjoy your stay. I'll come to see you sometimes." Hermes patted Pan's head. She hadn't known how to treat him before, but now she did. "You must have grown so much in these past hundred years!"

Pan nodded solemnly, kissed Hermes on the cheek, and had already made up his mind.

"I will, Mother!"

Please take good care of yourself...

Not far away, Apollo silently watched the mother and son having a private conversation, and noticed that the atmosphere between them was no longer as strange as before.

Athena and Artemis had just finished exploring the surrounding area and found that Gaia had indeed stopped the earth from growing wildly, so they returned to their companions.

"What is he doing, Hebe?"

"It's like they're spying on Sister Hermes..."

"Still there?"

"right."

"Tsk, what a loser."

"..."

After reaching an agreement with Gaia, Olympus entered a new era.

The first thing Hermes did upon returning to Arcadia was to go to her temple. There, Periope's body remained encased in crystal-like frost, maintaining a serene expression.

Without Gaia's manipulation and constraints, Hermes is now able to use the power of nature more easily and freely.

She was finally able to bring her back to life.

Apollo stayed by Hermes' side, saying, "I will support you no matter what."

Gaia granted her the authority of nature, Tartarus helped her understand the boundaries of life and death; they both chose her and shared their power with her.

Even before Hermes fully awakened, she was able to preserve the soul of the nature spirit that should have disappeared, and have kept it until now.

Hermes stroked the frozen surface: "I told you long ago, Pereope shouldn't end like this."

She closed her eyes and channeled the divine power within her body.

This time, she was able to feel the essence of that power more clearly—not only destruction and reconstruction, but also nourishment and revival.

The frost began to melt, scattering into specks of light that merged into Perius's body.

Hermes cut her finger and placed a drop of golden blood on Perioper's lips, and then the light gradually spread to the nymph's entire body.

“In the name of nature, I grant you a second life.” Hermes murmured with unwavering conviction, “But this time, life belongs to you.”

Almost the next second, Peripera's eyelashes fluttered, and she slowly opened her eyes.

Those violet eyes were initially filled with confusion, but then gradually focused on Hermes' face.

“I…I’m dead, aren’t I?” Perius asked weakly. “I remember…a newborn child…”

“It’s a pleasure to see you again.” Hermes didn’t mention the child at this moment; she simply smiled and took the nymph’s hand. “Welcome back, dear Perius.”

Peripor paused, his eyes reddening as tears streamed down his face.

Meanwhile, in the Temple of Athena, the four gods are conducting experiments.

Prometheus brought the purest clay, taken from the depths of the earth; Hebe offered the sacred spring in her golden cup, which contained youth and vitality; finally, Athena infused this precious clay with the spark of wisdom.

The three gods stood around the workbench, watching the clay gradually take shape in Hephaestus's hands.

Is this a human being, or a woman who never truly existed in the Silver Age?

“We need to give women certain qualities, which can be similar to men or completely different,” Athena pondered. “It absolutely cannot be a matter of superiority or inferiority, because it is also good for women and men to complement each other.”

Prometheus nodded in agreement: "Women are better at conceiving and sustaining than men."

Athena curled the corners of her lips: "If women want to do that, then let them do it! As long as they follow their own hearts."

Now, Athena and Prometheus no longer need to worry about creating female humans.

Because Gaia relaxed her attitude, Zeus also stopped imposing restrictions.

Hebe carefully poured the sacred spring water into the clay sculptures: "I want them to have more delicate emotions, a stronger sense of compassion, and the ability to understand the fragility and preciousness of life."

Finally, the first female human was largely completed. She had soft curves, clear eyes, and radiated a glow different from that of male humans.

This time, it was Hebe who transformed the soil into flesh and blood. She was a little nervous, but she did a great job.

The female human opened her eyes, looked at the gods who had created her, and then smiled with curiosity.

She can't speak yet, but she can already express kindness to others; her heart is so pure.

"I did it..." Hebe covered her mouth excitedly, tears welling up in her eyes.

Just then, Hermes entered the temple.

She had barely revived Peripera when she sensed the fluctuations here and immediately rushed over.

"Wow, so cute! You did a great job!" Hermes exclaimed as she walked toward the newborn human woman.

The human female sat on the workbench, looking around.

Noticing Hermes approaching, she tilted her head and smiled at her.

Athena explained with a touch of excitement, “We created her, but she is still missing some crucial things, such as the ability to give birth to life.”

This is the most sacred natural authority, and perhaps Hermes can bestow it upon human women on behalf of Gaia—provided Gaia agrees.

Hermes immediately understood. She reached out and gathered the portion of divine power belonging to Gaia into her hand.

The process went smoothly, which seems to be what Gaia wanted to see.

Hermes lightly touched the abdomen of the human woman with her fingertips, and a warm, golden-green light flowed out from it like water, merging into the newborn body.

"In the name of Mother Earth Gaia, I bestow upon you the power to give birth to life," Hermes solemnly declared. "You will be able to bear new life and nurture it to grow."

She paused.

"The premise is that it is your own will and you can bear the pain of childbirth; otherwise, no one can interfere with your bodily autonomy."

In a sense, this is not only to prevent male humans from harming female humans, but also to prevent them from being targeted by certain male gods.

For example, the old man and the second old man.

Hera would probably be very happy to see this scene.

The female human felt the changes within her body; she placed her hand on her abdomen, her eyes filled with astonishment.

"Thank you," she said softly, her voice as melodious as a spring. "Huh, I think I can talk now?"

“Hahaha, yeah~” Hermes scratched the back of his head, “I also gave you language skills, including ‘eloquence’, believe me, it’s very useful!”

"By the way, have you thought about what name you should give yourself?"

The female human thought for a moment and said, "I want to be called Pandora. This name means 'possessing all talents'."

Then, she blinked and gave a sly smile, just like Hermes.

"Perhaps the revered and loving deities... are willing to grant me other talents?"

The gods present: "..."

Pandora, so ambitious even at birth, I have a feeling she's going to be an extraordinary woman.

Moreover, they even learned Hermes's methods—

"Ahem...what a great name." Hermes nodded, pretending nothing had happened, despite everyone's stares. "Anyway, Miss Pandora, I'm rooting for you!"

Apollo, who arrived a step too late, saw this scene and shook his head helplessly.

—Hermes has started again.

Later, they took Pandora to the main temple and had her receive the blessings of the gods.

Zeus loved Pandora, but Hera loved her even more, so she granted this human woman the right to choose her own marriage and promised to protect her forever.

With the birth of the first female human, more women were created. They encountered and got to know the existing male humans, gradually understanding each other's differences and similarities. In this way, new forms of family emerged, and new social structures began to take shape.

Meanwhile, in Olympus, the gods were also quietly changing.

Hephaestus no longer wallowed in forging and resentment; he began to try creating things that were not only practical but also beautiful. Encouraged by his foster mother Thetis, he prepared a special gift for the upcoming wedding—yes, the wedding of Hermes and Apollo.

Aphrodite remained a womanizer; she had not yet given birth to Eros in her womb, but this did not prevent her from being faithful to love.

Ares began to learn respect and reflection. He was still irritable, but at least he no longer blindly loved war and argued with his brother.

Even ancient goddesses like Demeter and Hestia rediscovered their place in this hopeful era. Demeter began teaching humanity more advanced agricultural knowledge, while Hestia spread the secrets of family harmony and the ability to kindle fire.

And many more meaningful things are happening here...

At the heart of all this was the effort of the gods, led by Hermes and Apollo.

They're currently traveling all over the world, having recently co-hosted the Pythia and Eastmoos competitions with humans. They finally had some free time to enjoy their romance by the river, when they happened upon a human woodcutter who had accidentally dropped his axe into the water. Of course, Hermes immediately, as if by muscle memory, dragged Apollo over and asked the woodcutter whether he had lost a golden or silver axe.

Of course, Apollo will no longer simply destroy monsters, because Hermes will take him to reform the evil monsters, and just like his previous record, they will be invincible.

Speaking of this, we must mention Typhus. For some reason, this guy never came out of the underworld again. Anyway, it stopped causing trouble everywhere and stayed in Tartarus, which is equivalent to self-imprisonment. Hermes then stopped paying attention to it.

The funniest part is that while Hermes's alter ego was guiding the dead to the underworld, Apollo was still busy telling fortunes, and then she called him a goofball again.

Apollo: "That sounds good, continue."

Hermes: "..."

It has to be said that he's getting more and more outrageous.

Sometimes they had to take on missions entrusted to them by Zeus or Hera, going to this kingdom on earth one moment, and delivering messages to someone the next... It wasn't that the old man was lazy, he was just really lazy, making her and Apollo do all this! Hermes simply went on strike and refused to do it, going off to have fun with Apollo.

The wedding was scheduled for the spring equinox, a day when day and night are of equal length, symbolizing balance and harmony.

The location wasn't chosen on Olympus, but rather on the vast plains of Arcadia—a place that held shared memories for the newlyweds and was also the perfect spot for Hermes to steal Apollo's cattle.

Not only did the local humans come to join the fun, but almost all the gods were present. Even the usually lazy Hades left the Underworld with Persephone to offer his blessings. Hecate appeared with Eris, who, unusually, did not cause any chaos, but stood quietly beside her best friend, her eyes gleaming with a complex light.

Triton also came; after another long talk with Poseidon, he was granted temporary freedom to attend the wedding. Amphitrite did not come, but sent her son with a necklace woven from deep-sea pearls as a wedding gift.

Pan was granted permission by Gaia to temporarily leave Crete to attend the wedding. The boy appeared much more composed than before; the thorns on his ram's horns had disappeared, replaced by tiny flowers. He stood beside Periope, observing the grand event with a mixture of curiosity and delight.

"Are you nervous?" Artemis asked her brother. She had originally intended to tease him, but then thought better of it.

Apollo raised an eyebrow: "Never been so calm. Well, actually, a little."

Artemis: "Ha! You silly goose!"

Apollo: "It's no use, I like all the nicknames she gave me."

Seeing that his son had been trained into this state, Leto laughed and joked with Asteria, marveling at Hermes's clever methods.

Meanwhile, Maia was making final preparations for her daughter. She was weaving a wreath for Hermes using wildflowers and olive branches from near the Courne Mountains.

“My little Hermes has grown up.” Maya said, tears welling in her eyes. “I am so proud of you.”

Hermes hugged her mother: "Thank you for always believing in me, Mother Goddess, I love you."

Zeus originally wanted to come and take a look, but Hera was there, so he just patted Hermes on the head and promised her that she could ask for whatever she wanted.

"No need, Father." Hermes smiled and hugged Zeus. "I have already obtained what I wanted."

The wedding was officiated by Hera.

As the goddess of marriage, this is where Hera's authority lies. Today, unusually, she did not display a sarcastic or indifferent expression, but rather appeared extremely solemn and dignified.

"Under the witness of the heavens and the earth, and of all living beings—" Hera's voice resounded across the entire grassland, "the two deities will today unite their destinies, vowing to share glory and challenge, joy and sorrow, from this moment until eternity..."

Hermes and Apollo stood face to face. They were both dressed in long robes of gold and white, with cloaks draped over their shoulders in snake patterns, and wearing holy floral crowns. Warm smiles radiated from their faces.

Apistone and Tokei had already been granted their freedom by Hermes to go wherever they wanted, but they still showed up at the wedding, transforming into snakes and continuing to coil around Hermes' scepter to support her.

[You damned God of Light, you must treat our Highness well! Otherwise, I'll bite you to death when you're not looking!]

Be gentle, Apistone, this is a wedding, just give him a couple of bites.

Apollo: "I'll definitely treat her well, little ones."

Hermes: "Hehe~"

After Hermes and Apollo exchanged vows, it was time for the gift-giving ceremony.

Hephaestus was the first to step forward, holding an exquisite box in his hands.

“Open it,” he said gently.

Hermes opened the box, inside which was a pair of gold bracelets engraved with intricate patterns—light and wings, snakes and scepters, perfectly blending the symbols of a newlywed couple.

Wow! This looks amazing!

“These are crafted from the purest gold, imbued with all the skills I can apply,” Hephaestus explained proudly. “They are not just ornaments, but amulets. When you wear them, you can sense each other’s presence, no matter how far apart you are.”

Although the two of them are inseparable now, such a valuable item will definitely be very useful in the future!

“Thank you, Hephaestus, this gift is amazing!” Hermes said sincerely, and Apollo nodded in thanks as well.

Then Thetis stepped forward, bringing a silver cloak: "This is woven from the scales of deep-sea fish, Hermes. It can provide protection when you need it, and also conceal your divinity when you travel the world."

Zeus's gift was the most grand, a pair of thunderbolt-shaped brooches.

"They contain a portion of my power." The God-King smiled benevolently, even winking his right eye at them. "You understand!"

Artemis's gift was a pair of golden antlers. She smiled and said, "You can use them to make all kinds of ornaments. They contain my divine power and can protect you so that you can travel freely to any place in the world."

Athena's gift was a mechanical model of an owl, while Prometheus's was a mechanical model of a little man. They didn't explain the specific function of these two little things, but simply smiled mysteriously, leaving Hermes and Apollo to discover it for themselves.

Triton gave him a pink conch shell, which could be used to summon him, or to summon or ward off sea monsters.

All the deities present presented carefully prepared gifts, demonstrating the great importance they placed on this wedding.

Finally, Hera stepped forward, and almost every god held their breath, wondering what kind of blessing this goddess, known for her jealousy, would bestow.

Poseidon, Demeter, and Hestia reunited, as if they had returned to the day when Hermes was first taken to Mount Olympus by Apollo.

"I really didn't expect her to value those two children so much."

"Yes, who would have thought?"

"Would you like to eat this fig?"

"Yes, yes, yes!"

"..."

At the same time, everyone noticed that Hera did not hold any real objects in her hands; she simply stretched out her hands and placed them on the shoulders of Hermes and Apollo respectively.

“In the name of the goddess of marriage, I, Hera—” Hera’s voice was solemn, “I bless your union.”

May your trust be as steadfast as a mountain, your understanding as enduring as a river, and your love as ever-shining as the stars. No matter what challenges and changes the future holds, may you always remember the vows you made today, supporting each other and never betraying one another.

Golden light emanated from Hera's hands and merged into the bodies of the newlywed couple before her.

Hermes and Apollo both felt the power of this blessing.

They looked at Hera, their eyes filled with surprise and gratitude.

"Thank you! Your Highness, you're the best! Love you!"

"Thank you, Your Highness."

They both said it in unison.

Hera withdrew her hand, a slight smile playing on her lips, and said meaningfully, "Cherish it, you two. Such a fate is rare even in eternity."

The wedding reached its climax under the stars, with the muses playing music, the nymphs dancing, and even the animals gathering to watch the ceremony.

In the distance, Hera and Poseidon stood in the shadows, observing Hermes and Apollo as they sat around a campfire sharing food.

“She is very powerful, far beyond our expectations,” Poseidon said in a low voice. “And she has won so much support—Gaia, Tartarus, Hecate… even Zeus is impressed by her.”

Hera's expression was complicated: "I know, but it's strange that she doesn't want the throne."

“That’s the problem,” Poseidon smiled. “So what if she doesn’t want it? Who else might want to give it to her? Especially… if she succeeds.”

Hera understood Poseidon's meaning: if Hermes had indeed brought about tremendous changes in the past century, her prestige and influence would have reached their zenith, not to mention her success in persuading Gaia to come.

Zeus has ruled for far too long, even without Gaia interfering...

“Hebe is growing up.” Hera said thoughtfully. “My youngest daughter has also been performing better than expected lately; she has learned so much.”

Upon hearing this, Poseidon narrowed his eyes: "Little Hebe does indeed have great potential, so—"

“We cannot act rashly,” Hera interrupted Poseidon, issuing a warning. “Zeus is still powerful, Hermes has many supporters, and we are unsure of Hecate’s attitude…”

They looked towards the distance, where Hecate was speaking quietly with Eris. The goddess of the moon seemed to sense their gaze, turned her head, and her blood-red eyes flickered in the night.

Hecate said nothing, only nodded slightly and turned her head away.

Poseidon lowered his voice: "Hecate knows what we're thinking."

“She always knew a lot of things,” Hera replied calmly, “but as long as she didn’t object, that was tacit approval. Even if she had a good relationship with Zeus.”

Hera had always wanted to place her daughter Hebe on the throne, and she still held the same idea. She also still had some affection for Zeus, so she wouldn't abandon him if the plan succeeded.

Even so... at least for now, they will maintain a peaceful situation.

On the other side of the grassland, Hecate was indeed discussing the same topic with Eris.

“They will act sooner or later,” Eris said excitedly. “Hera has long been unable to accept Zeus’s rule, and Poseidon is even more ambitious. Chaos is about to descend once more—how wonderful!”

Hecate shook her head: "Not necessarily, this time might be different."

"Because of that little girl?" Eris scoffed. "Hermes is indeed interesting, but can she change the nature of us gods? Greed, ambition, envy... these will never disappear."

“It’s alright.” Hecate sighed, then looked up at the starry sky.

"By the way, how's Tipuos doing lately? I heard he's still in Tartarus?"

“Well, I originally wanted to arrange a job for it in the underworld, but it wants to stay with Echidna.”

"Rhea for the same reason? For Chronos?"

Upon hearing this, Hecate lowered her eyes, frowned, and said, "Rhea should have lived somewhere in the mortal realm."

"You shouldn't be kind to them and always fulfill their wishes; it won't do you any good."

"...Perhaps."

“No matter what, my dearest friend,” Eris said with a grin, putting her arm around Hecate’s shoulder, “we’ll always have a good show to watch!”

At this moment, Pan carefully brought a cup of celestial dew to Hermes' side, the boy's eyes still filled with admiration and longing for his mother.

“Mother,” he whispered, “the goddess Gaia has asked me to give you a message.”

Hermes swallowed the roasted pork chop and patted the snakes that were sleeping soundly beside her after playing.

She tilted her head and asked, "Hmm? What did you say?"

“She said, ‘Don’t forget your promise, but don’t forget to enjoy your moments,’” Pan recounted, her violet eyes appearing exceptionally clear under the starlight. “She also said she hoped you would always be happy.”

A warm feeling welled up in Hermes' heart. She reached out and gently stroked Pan's cheek. "Thank you, Pan, and thank her too. By the way, are you doing well with her?"

Pan nodded, hesitated for a moment, and continued, "She taught me to control the power within me, and to understand the voice of the earth... Sometimes, I always felt that she was very lonely."

Whenever Gaia looks at the Tree of Life, there's an indescribable sadness in her eyes, and even I'm affected by that emotion. Pan thought to himself.

Apollo glanced at the inexplicably forlorn goat boy: "Then you should spend more time with the goddess Gaia. Why don't you stay by her side for a few more centuries?"

Pan immediately looked up and glared at him, gritting his teeth as he said, "You bastard Apollo, if it weren't for the fact that today is Mother's wedding..."

Apollo shrugged and fed Hermes a piece of cooked meat in front of Pan.

"Is it delicious, my dear little genius?"

"Delicious! I love you, Brother Apollo!"

Pan: "..."

That's enough, you damned bastard Apollo!!!

Triton, pretending to be passing by: "..."

The more they looked at that God of Light, the more they disliked him. He even kissed Hermes while mocking them, which was extremely annoying.

Triton pulled Pan aside and whispered, "I heard you also hate Apollo?"

Pan: "!!! Could it be that you also...?"

Triton nodded sadly.

Thus, the alliance to defeat Apollo and rescue Hermes was formed, albeit unpleasantly.

They vowed to make things difficult for Apollo every day in the future, hoping to wake Hermes from his sweet talk as soon as possible!

Look at how happily she's acting all cute and affectionate with him, how awful...

It must have been the cunning and treacherous Apollo who kidnapped the innocent, naive, and kind Hermes!

Aphrodite and Ares, who were passing by, glanced curiously at the four strangely bewildered individuals. The latter was puzzled, while the former burst out laughing.

"Look!" Aphrodite stroked her swollen belly, laughing heartily, "It's the power of love!"

On the seventh night after the wedding, Gaia left Crete alone.

Gaia told no one, but walked slowly and heavily across the earth. Wherever her footsteps passed, new life arose; flowers bloomed and withered in the darkness, as if telling of the brevity and cycle of life.

Finally, she arrived at the entrance to the underworld. Cerberus's three heads raised simultaneously, but upon seeing Gaia, the Earth Mother, the hellhounds quietly lowered themselves and made way.

Gaia thus entered the underworld safely, not going to Hades' palace, but going straight to the abyss of hell.

Her figure emitted a soft glow in the darkness, illuminating those corners that would never see the light of day.

Tartarus sensed it the moment she visited the Underworld; when she stepped into her domain, the space trembled slightly, as if to welcome her.

“Sister.” The voice from the abyss was hollow and ancient.

"Long time no see," Gaia replied, her eyes showing an unusual weariness.

Gaia greeted the sinful gods and monsters trapped there with gentle manners, her gaze lingering on Rhea and Typhoon for a moment, realizing that this was their own choice.

“Well,” she sighed softly, “my children, you have suffered.”

But Gaia will not let these children leave easily, for many reasons.

She arrived at the deepest part of the abyss, where there was still only pure nothingness, yet she could sense the presence of Tartarus. It was not a physical entity, but rather the consciousness of this space itself.

“I don’t blame you, Tartarus.” Gaia sat down on the ground, her robes spread out, blending into the darkness. “I just came here today to…have a word.”

Just like a long time ago.

Tartarus remained silent, waiting for Gaia to continue.

“Do you remember?” Gaia spoke softly, her eyes gentle and tender. “In the beginning of chaos, we five brothers and sisters were born from nothingness. At that time, Nyx was quite active, creating starlight on Erebus’s body, and he always indulged her. Our youngest brother, Eros, was obsessed with love and lust.”

"Eros was once like me..."

Gaia closed her eyes, immersing herself in sweet memories.

"Back then, we didn't understand what disagreement and loneliness were. The world was vast and full of endless possibilities. We would sit on the newly formed mountains, watching the things we created—I created the first grassland, Eros brought the first pair of lovers, Nyx lit the first star..."

“I remember,” Tartarus’s voice echoed in the void, “back then we simply existed.”

“Yes, it just existed.” Gaia sighed again. “Later, the world became complicated, there were more living beings, and more conflicts. We each chose different paths.”

"We have existed for far too long, and it has been far too agonizing."

“I know,” Tartarus said calmly, “so you really did kill them, even if they did it willingly.”

Gaia smiled wryly and said, "Yes, I really did it. It seems like it was my mission."

Chaos granted them authority, placing the heavy burden of responsibility upon their newborn shoulders, and Gaia was the sole guardian of order among them.

She has been carrying a painful responsibility for so long.

After a moment of silence, Gaia opened her eyes, her emerald pupils glowing in the darkness: "Even you are tired of it, Tartarus?"

The abyss trembled slightly, as if it were in thought.

“Yes,” Tartarus readily admitted. “I was tired of it, ever since a long time ago.”

“I will never blame you,” Gaia said calmly. “But tell me, my dear, will you fall into eternal sleep like them?”

Tartarus replied swiftly, "As long as you are here, I will not leave."

This isn't a deep, clingy love, but simply a habit and sense of responsibility formed over many years.

Gaia looked up, but all around was still darkness, as if she had returned to the moment of her birth.

“I will keep that hundred-year covenant.” Gaia stood up. “I want to see just how far Hermes and the God of Light she has chosen can go.”

“They are working hard,” Tartarus said. “I’m looking forward to it.”

A faint smile appeared on Gaia's lips: "What about Hecate? You still care about that girl, don't you?"

This time Tartarus fell silent.

“I understand now.” Gaia chuckled a few times. “Good luck, Tartarus.”

Then Gaia stood up and prepared to leave.

But before she could step out of the abyss, she stopped.

"Sometimes I think, if only the five of us could have stayed the way we were in the beginning... how wonderful that would have been."

But there are no "what ifs".

Perhaps Hermes and Apollo could create a future they never had.

Tartarus did not answer, but gently closed the space after Gaia left.

When Gaia emerged from the underworld, it was just as dawn was breaking.

She stood at the boundary between Yin and Yang, watching the first ray of sunlight illuminate the earth.

The Tree of Life called to Mother Earth from afar, but she did not return immediately. Instead, she closed her eyes and spread her consciousness throughout the world.

Gaia sensed Hermes and Apollo on Earth, diligently teaching humanity new sports and arts; Athena and Prometheus perfecting a new legal system; Hebe helping the first female humans adapt to various social roles; Artemis protecting newborn creatures in the forest; and she could even sense Hera and Poseidon's secret plot, as well as Hecate's meaningful gaze...

Everything in the world is in constant flux, forever.

Gaia opened her eyes, a hint of relief flashing in their emerald hue.

“A hundred years…” she smiled and muttered to herself, “Then let me see what kind of world you can create.”

Gaia returned to Crete, her steps lighter than when she arrived.

Behind her, the world continues to turn.

In a distant human village, the campfire had gone out, but the warm embers still flickered faintly.

Hermes stood atop the mountain, watching the eastern sky gradually change from deep purple to orange-red; dawn was breaking.

“Gaia has gone to the underworld,” Apollo suddenly spoke up beside him. “She went to talk to Tartarus.”

Hermes wasn't surprised: "So you foresaw it again?"

Apollo nodded and then took Hermes' hand.

"She seemed to be in a good mood; I could tell."

"Is Tartarus the same?"

"Probably."

"Pfft... Hahaha, what do you mean 'should'? You idiot Apollo!"

but--

Hermes turned her head and smiled slightly at Apollo, who was looking at her as well: "I hope they can all enjoy what they have and no longer feel tired."

"Just as happy as we are, aren't we?" Apollo's eyes lifted slightly, taking on a golden-red hue in the rising sun, making him look even more handsome.

"Yes, yes, yes, happy, silly goose brother~"

"That's a cute nickname, but not as cute as you, little genius."

"..."

The first ray of sunlight broke through the horizon, casting its brilliant light across the earth, making even the air feel incredibly fresh.

Hermes gazed at the beautiful scenery in the distance and suddenly had a whimsical idea: "A new day has begun, shall we have a musical contest?"

Since marrying him, she has found herself increasingly enjoying discussing music and sports with him, which is quite strange.

Apollo conjured a lyre and played a lighthearted melody: "Alright, would you like to try the old one or the new one this time?"

“Anything is fine!” Hermes smiled and reached out to touch the lyre. “This time I want to play with you! My dear brother Apollo~”

"Alright, alright, that's a duet, let's go..."

And so, they played music side by side under the huge sun, their shadows stretched long in the morning light.

Midway through, Apollo's fingers paused, and the strings made a crisp sound.

Hermes was forced to stop moving as well, stunned.

"What's wrong?"

"I foresaw the birth of a child."

"..." Hermes' eyes widened instantly, staring in astonishment at Apollo's serious face. "Wait, wait, could it be..."

"It's exactly what you think."

He was staring intently at her belly, a hint of excitement flickering in his light blue eyes.

Wait, what are you so excited about?!

Under Hermes's shocked gaze, Apollo reached out and touched her belly, gently feeling the unexpected little life that had come into the world.

Light shone at his fingertips, warming her body.

“I’m looking forward to it, my dear.” Apollo leaned closer and whispered in Hermes’ ear, “Whether it’s a girl or a boy, I will love it, because it is our child.”

However, in Apollo's heart, Hermes would always be number one.

Even though he had never been a father before, he would do his best to do everything as long as she was there.

After a while.

"So, you really foresaw it? You're not lying to me, are you?"

"I'm not you, you little liar."

"Huh? How did you know I already knew about this?"

"...Tsk."

"Don't treat me like that!"

"Okay, my dear little genius."

Hermes and Apollo are having a wonderful time together today!

-END-

[Author's Note]

Finally, I've finished writing this! I need to revise the previous parts when I have time, so please be gentle with your criticism [crying][crying][crying] Anyway, thank you all for reading! See you in the next installment! [thumbs up][thumbs up][thumbs up]