<i>Friends</i>. Such a strange word to be used for what they were. He knew nothing about her, and she knew perhaps less about him. However, she had offered him such kindness that he had not known before today. His existence was not entirely void of companionship; but Cerberus was of his own creation, and despite their unshakable loyalty, the guardian was often off wandering on their own, watching over the perimeter. But the very idea of Persephone's friendship warmed him in a way that curved his lips into a rare, faint smile.<br/><br/>But it was not to last. With the appearance of Artemis, the distance that was suddenly forced between them was a harsh reminder of what should have always been. Hades' face colored with shame as he avoided the goddess' accusing stare, a bluish tint touching his sloping cheekbones. He too should have known better. But, quietly as it was kept, he held no regret in his heart. He had come so close to her, after all this time of waiting. Being met with the same amount of scorn from another deity was well worth such a monumental change.<br/><br/>He dared to glance up at her again, just past the moon goddess as she began to depart. He did not answer her, couldn't in front of prying eyes. But there was just enough of finality in his gaze as he met her lovely eyes that it was certain that he was sure of it. They would meet again, the rest of the pantheon be damned.<br/><br/>A rippling growl answered the huntress' dogs from behind Hades. Hidden in the treeline, Cerberus met the challenge with own of their own. They did not take kindly to intruders, much less so to threats to their master. Through the mist and the snow, three enormous sets of eyes glowed and the ground quivered with the beast's snarls.<br/><br/>"I do not wish to cause quarrel with you, Artemis," Hades said, and he bowed low at the waist as a sign of respect. "I will return to my domain. I would send my regards and apologies to Demeter, would they have been of any comfort to her." He turned back towards his domain, and with a sharp whistle, the growling ceased. Hades glanced back at Artemis. "I do not suspect that we will make a habit of crossing paths in the near future." It was not a threat of any kind, merely an observation. Even when she ushered souls to him, she did so at length. He could not recall the last time they had even spoken to one another. But he would imagine now she and the others would be more watchful at his borders.