The fire continued to flicker and dance as Selene’s explanation of the Seven Princesses lingered in the minds of the group. The air was heavy, and the cavern seemed to hum with energy, as if the very walls were alive with the knowledge being shared.

“There is more you need to understand about the Seven Princesses,” Selene said, her voice echoing slightly. “While they each rule a domain and embody a sin, they are also the keepers of the Seven Gates of Hell. These gates are not mere passageways—they are thresholds that bind Hell together and prevent its chaos from spilling into the mortal world unchecked.”

Jack leaned forward, intrigued. “What are these gates, and how do they work?”

Selene’s eyes glinted as she began to weave the story of the gates.

“These gates are ancient,” Selene began. “They were forged long before mortal time began, created by the forces that govern balance in the universe. Each gate is tied to one of the princesses and their respective sin. They are not physical doors, but immense constructs of power, hidden deep within Hell. To cross one is to confront the essence of the sin it represents, and only the strongest can survive the journey.”

“The first gate, tied to Lucifer, is the Gate of Pride. It is a magnificent structure, made of mirrors and gold, reflecting the image of anyone who dares to approach it. But the reflections are not true—they twist and distort, showing the worst of your arrogance and the lies you tell yourself.”

“What happens if someone tries to pass through it?” Claire asked.

“They are consumed by their own pride,” Selene replied. “It becomes a prison, trapping them in endless self-admiration until their soul is hollow and empty.”

“The Gate of Wrath, tied to Satan, is a massive fortress of blackened iron, surrounded by an eternal storm. Thunder and lightning crash endlessly, and the air is thick with the scent of blood. To pass through this gate, one must confront their deepest anger and the violence it brings.”

Tom shivered. “And if they fail?”

“They are lost to their fury, becoming mindless instruments of destruction, forever trapped in Satan’s domain,” Selene said grimly.

“The Gate of Gluttony, ruled by Beelzebub, is a grotesque amalgamation of flesh and bone, oozing with decay. The gate whispers promises of endless indulgence, tempting those who approach to give in to their desires.”

“And what happens if they do?” Emma asked, her voice trembling.

“They become part of the gate itself,” Selene explained. “Their bodies merge with its grotesque form, feeding its endless hunger."

“The Gate of Greed, under Mammon’s control, is a shimmering barrier of gold and jewels. It radiates wealth and power, promising untold riches to anyone who enters. But the treasure is an illusion.”

“What’s the catch?” Jack asked.

“Those who try to take the riches are consumed by their greed,” Selene said. “Their souls become part of Mammon’s hoard, forever trapped in a cycle of longing and despair.”

“The Gate of Lust, tied to Asmodeus, is a shimmering veil of silk and shadows. It exudes a seductive energy, drawing in anyone who harbors even the faintest desire. To pass through, one must resist their deepest temptations.”

“And if they can’t?” Claire asked.

“They are consumed by their desires, losing all sense of self and becoming thralls to Asmodeus’s will,” Selene said solemnly.

“The Gate of Envy, ruled by Leviathan, is a swirling vortex of green mist, filled with whispers and visions of what one desires most but can never have. It forces anyone who approaches to confront their jealousy and resentment.”

Tom frowned. “So, what happens if someone fails?”

“They are swallowed by the mist,” Selene said. “Their envy consumes them, and they become part of Leviathan’s ever-watchful eye, doomed to witness what they can never possess.”

“The Gate of Sloth, tied to Belphegor, is a vast swamp, stagnant and unmoving. The air is thick, and the ground pulls at anyone who dares to enter, sapping their energy and willpower.”

“Let me guess,” Jack said. “If they can’t keep moving, they’re stuck forever?”

Selene nodded. “Exactly. They sink into the swamp, their souls paralyzed by inaction, becoming part of Belphegor’s domain.”

“The gates are more than just barriers,” Selene continued. “They are directly linked to the Seven Princesses. Their power flows through these gates, maintaining the balance of Hell. If even one gate were to be breached, it would upset the delicate equilibrium, allowing chaos to spill into the mortal world.”

Jack’s curiosity burned. “Has anyone ever crossed all seven gates?”

Selene’s expression darkened. “Very few have even attempted it, and none have returned. To pass all seven gates is to face the essence of human sin in its purest form. It is said that the one who can cross them all might gain the power to challenge the princesses themselves, but that is a dangerous legend—a path only fools would walk.”

Selene’s voice grew serious. “Now that you know of the gates, you must understand this: they are not meant to be trifled with. The Seven Princesses guard them fiercely, for they represent the heart of their power. Should you ever find yourself near one, tread carefully. To challenge a gate is to challenge the sin it embodies, and that is a battle most cannot win.”

The group sat in silence, the weight of Selene’s words settling over them like a heavy shroud. The Seven Princesses and their gates were not just stories—they were forces that shaped the very fabric of Hell and the mortal world alike.

Jack stared into the fire, his mind racing. He couldn’t help but wonder if their journey would one day bring them face-to-face with one of these gates—or worse, one of the princesses themselves. The thought sent a shiver down his spine, but it also fueled his resolve. Whatever lay ahead, he knew they had to be prepared.