213. A Forest Corrupted
A Forest Corrupted
It is obscene how often
the cruellest things can happen
in the most beautiful places.
This forest was a sacred jewel
in the crown of a bright,
young spring Goddess.
Even the deer and lambs
lived in peace with
the lions and wolves here.
Hecuba was off like a shot
in the direction of the scream
and I ran after her in pursuit.
And there it was
that I saw the most hideous
of all sights. A young woman,
no, the glow around her body
told me she was a Goddess
screaming as she fought
against the brutal arms
that held her. I ran instantly.
I had to save her!
Hecuba was barking,
alerting me to the chariot
with its fire horses, flaming and majestic.
Before I could reach them,
a sinkhole opened and before
he dragged her into it with him
I saw the face of her assaulter
and recoiled as though slapped.
Hades .