98. Coeus, God of Intellect
Coeus, God of Intellect
When we left the palace,
my father turned to Perses and me.
‘You have cost me my brother.’
The words were a quiet defeat.
‘I hope it is a worthy sacrifice.’
My father’s words brought tears
to my eyes. The humiliation
he had faced for our love was huge.
Perses’s hand tightened on mine,
giving me strength.
‘Asteria’s happiness is as paramount
to me as it is to you,’
Perses said quietly. My parents nodded.
‘Asteria.’ My father addressed me now.
‘The home you share with Perses –
make it strong.’ He had a faraway look
in his eyes. ‘Strengthen its walls.
It must be capable of withstanding
anything.’ A chill went through me
as I thought of Styx’s prophetic dream.
‘We will,’ Perses said, unperturbed.
‘But first I must take Asteria
to see my parents.’
He looked at Pallas and Styx.
‘You should accompany us.’