In Greek mythology Hades is said to be the brother of Zeus and Poseidon; and like his brothers he features in various myths and legends, one of which mentions that when visiting the surface he wears a 'helmet of invisibility'. In truth Hades never wears such a thing, he has no need, since he can assume any form he likes.
   Generally, however, team-members have found that he chooses to appear in either of two forms: one a tall and extremely handsome young man with sparkling eyes,  a regal figure whose body radiates a golden aura. In this form Hades is gentle:

"Other Gods and Goddesses share the earth and sky but I am the sole ruler of the Underworld.  I know many mistake my name with that of the devil or Satan; but if it is in ignorance and they are willing to learn about me, I forgive them.
   I will not be taken for Satan, neither am I evil. It is my job to educate souls away from their evil ways. And I get many.
   Those who I have spoken to I reassure them that I am a God. I can be gentle and you do not have to fear me all the time. Never think badly of me. 

I created the underworld. In the core of the earth there is fire but there is also beauty, so much beauty; but look what they are doing to my realm: poisonous substances, atomic waste buried. Mortals think their cylinders are well sealed but they will leak and poison the earth for miles around. In many years to come mortals will suffer through this. I do not want nuclear waste in my underworld, nor petrochemical pipes. Those who do this will have to come down to me when they die. It may be for only a short time or it may be a long time. It depends..."

Hades can change form in a flash of light. The handsome man transforms into a massive being, tall and broad with huge hands and feet. His eyes are burning coals, his head a mane of unkempt black hair which stands on end; he has a black beard and a mouth filled with pointed sharpened teeth. Hades' body is a mass of hair and rough-scale skin, all in all surrounded by fire.

"You may think of me as a hard God. All evil and wicked mortals come to me when their life on earth is ended. I see they get their just reward, which I can assure you is not pleasant. While they are here they think of all the things they did wrong in their incarnation. Every soul sent to me is someone who needs punishment. I have been very busy lately."

This festivity, if this is the right word, is a period when Hades is especially active in the Underworld. Also present are other deities who work in association: other Gods and Goddesses who judge individuals and mark them for Hades' attention. There are also Hades' Assessors who are as fierce and frightening as Hades but do not have his compassion. In short it is a time to remember Hades' Work-in-Progress. 

Hades' Underworld Festival:
       March 1st and 2nd