Chapter Text
Black smoke churned in the once bright blue sky. The once visible and blindingly brightness of Helios was now obscured by the bleak ominous clouds of sorrow.
Luna stood amongst the people of Pelpenie. Sapphire eyes focused on the burning pyre in front of her. As the smoke continued to rise higher into the heavens, so was the feeling of grief.
She watched as the flames danced in her vision. Bright orange and yellow fire flickering in an alluring waltz. Swaying back and forth, wisping higher into the sky. Picking up their tempo as the fire kept growing ever higher. As their dance of destruction continued, the flames consumed all that there was.
The same dance.
The same tune.
The same dark ending.
As the flames continued to consume the large pyre. Luna recalled quickly the moments before the pyre was even lit.
~ * ~
Shortly after, the people of Pelpenie acknowledged her as their savior. Luna ordered the people to gather drachmas to place into the mouths of the deceased. She would have asked the noblemen and women to spare a couple of gold coins since they could afford it. However, she didn't want money that was from the wicked, placed into the mouths of those who are innocent, (More on that later).
During the gathering, Luna was informed by Stephanos and some others that there were more dead, in other parts of the polis. Taking that into account, the goddess tasked two trusted groups to lead the search and bring back the bodies. The first group was led by Stephanos, and they ventured off to the eastern side of the polis and would soon check the north. While Stephanos's two sons (Who Luna was introduced to earlier on), and Simon, lead another group to the west and would then check the south. She also ordered her wolves Aster and Nebula to help in the search, making the process faster. Aster went east with Stephanos, while Nebula went west.
As the two groups searched for more dead. The people left in the square were tasked to do other things.
The guards that came with the nobility were ordered by Luna to guard the area. None argued and the goddess sensed an air of gratitude and awe surrounding them when she made them go and do their given task.
Some of the younger adults, mainly young maidens such as Diantha's older sister Adara, were tasked to help some of the women to watch over the younger children. Or even help with the injured or the elderly.
The able-bodied older women that were led by Stephanos's wife, Lysandra, spent the time properly preparing the bodies that were already on the pyres. For the upcoming funeral.
Meanwhile, some of the men that remained behind, both young and old, searched through the rubble for anything salvageable.
Tallan, Luna's trusted feathered friend, soared through the skies once more to help with the search. For as he stated, "If I don't fly soon, I'll form a wing cramp out of sheer boredom." This caused the goddess to chuckle lightly, as she watched her friend in the sky.
While everyone in the polis had something to occupy themselves, mostly doing jobs. There was one select group that wasn't doing anything, and that was the nobles. Majority of them were just lounging around and sometimes glancing at the commonfolk with disgust. There were a few though that did end up helping around the area. An action that brought a smile to the goddess's lips.
There have been several times the nobles, (The entitled ones), have come up to her and try to gain her favor. Either through over exaggerated compliments, promise of the most extravagant gifts, or the worst ones yet. Their continuous praises towards her beauty and bravery. Luna listened to them calmly and respectfully, but her irritation was slowly growing. These nobles were no different than the ones back in her empire. Always boastful and proud. They sought to seek favor, where in her eyes she already saw through them. Saw their dishonorable nature, as if she were reading a bad book. Always thinking that just because they were wealthy, they were worth her time. Or how because they supported her in her reign as the empress, they were more important than the rest.
It was especially bad after the war between the resistance and Emperor Deavon. After she ascended, the nobles treated her like they would've with the tyrant. Like seriously, auctioning off their eligible sons for her so-called harem, please. She was so horribly disgusted with the idea that she almost went into a rage. Some of the nobility feared her, while others loved the power she held. She hated it, and it took at least almost a decade for the fear of Deavon, the tyrant, to fade from the hearts and minds of the people. During that time, it also was when some of the people who were still unsure about her as ruler. Began to doubt her and were afraid that she would secretly be another Deavon or worse, but through hard and grueling work. She was able to prove time and time again that she was better than Deavon. Wiser. Fairer. Kinder.
But that didn't make her a pushover either.
Soon the goddess was approached by an overweight nobleman. He wore a dark green tunic which almost touched the ground. With a red cloth crossing his body to make a red cape fall behind him. The man was balding, his hair was a combination of grey and black hair. He had a piggish nose and ears that were slightly too big for his head. Who made Luna's skin crawl in disgust. Now Luna isn't the one to body shame or judge someone based on appearance alone, and she still doesn't but it was the man's personality that made him even more repulsive. Which radiated entitlement, greed, selfishness, and lust.
Traits that she despised, but she decided to entertain the man. Hopefully to get some form of information from him.
Luna stood patiently as she listened to the fat noblemen who introduced himself as Gorgios, who mindlessly droned on about his family. Saying how he was the 2nd cousin to the great king, of Phila, and how it was him who granted him governorship of the polis, Pelpenie.
This bit of information piqued her interest.
She continued to let the man talk, even asking him questions about what had led the king to even consider someone governing over the interesting city state. The goddess watched as the man's eyes lit up with pride as he continued to boast about how he became the in charge of the polis.
Luna then inwardly smirked, as the fool just became so easily baited.
Apparently, king Ambrosios didn't have any male heirs, and was growing older by the day. So, in an act of desperation, the aging king looked towards Gorgios, Bion (Ambrosios's great uncle), and finally the king's distant nephew, who was just 14 years of age at the time, Leontius were his only options. Each one of them was tasked by the gracious king, to govern over the different poli in the region. Bion was charged with Heikeroi, Leontius was charged with Terria, and finally it was Gorgios charged with Pelpenie. Different poli, which lacked order, sophistication, and beauty. Ambrosios tasked each one of them to govern their poli, for at least ten winters. Then once, Persephone left the Underworld and graced Gaia with her presence once more to bring about Spring once again. Then and only then, Ambrosios will choose his heir. While the other two will be given their poli, for them to forever govern. As lowly governors. Or archons.
"However, that title will go to most likely Bion. Since he has more of the warrior's spirit, to make the great Ares proud." Gorgios had said mirthfully.
As Luna listened to Gorgios's story, she was impressed with King Ambrosios's thinking. Obviously, this task that was assigned to the three men was in fact a test. A test to see who is more deserving to lead the kingdom. If one out of the three can govern their territory successfully even improving it, then they shall be the one to inherit the crown.
The method was brilliant. Maybe she should see how the other two are doing and give her evaluations.
Luna then paused and slightly shook her head.
No, she has interfered far too much already and has stayed far longer than she liked. If any longer, she would have to deal with some unwanted company. Which she was not ready to face just yet.
As she strained herself to once again listen to Gorgios. The fool was too busy boasting about how great a job he had done governing Pelpenie. (Which was an absolute lie). To fully see the look of annoyance that marred her face. Oh, how she wanted this conversation to be over. She had already gotten some of the information she needed from the nobleman. But still that didn't mean she needed to continue listening to the bumbling idiot.
"If it won't trouble you, my lady," he then said. "I was hoping if you could put in a good word about me to my cousin. Tell him how I am doing such a tremendous job with the polis. That he should consider me for his crown." He had a gleeful and greedy smile on his face. "Since you are a goddess, I am sure he would love to hear my greatness from you. Oh, great divine goddess."
Luna then gave him an impassive look, "And why, pray tell do you think that you should bear the weight of your cousin's crown?"
Gorgios proudly puffed out his chest and answered, "Well I am the most qualified candidate after all. I know a lot about money and diplomacy. I know how to easily make the kingdom richer by bleeding others dry."
Luna's eyebrow quirked at that reveal but said nothing as the man continued.
"Bion has capable leadership skills, but the man is more of action than anything else. He is more suited for the battlefield and the thrill of blood bathing the ground, than holding parties and communicating with the small . . . minded folk. Unlike me, I can do that and more."
"But what about his nephew, Leontius, as you say he governs over Terria correct?" Luna had inquired, "Surely, he also is worthy of his candidacy? I mean he was chosen so shouldn't that qualify for something?"
Gorgios let out a barking laugh, "Chosen? Ha! He was only chosen to keep it fair. It is obvious that my cousin will choose me out of his nephew, because of the obvious."
"And what is the obvious?"
"The boy is a bastard," Gorgios then replied to the goddess, his tone haughty and mocking. "Other than his smarts and skills in swordsmanship, the boy is young but also his parentage is dubious. Despite what others might say, his so-called 'mother' is as baren as a dried up well. She couldn't conceive a child no matter how many times she was filled with the fruits of her husband's loins." He leaned into whisper to her, "Word on the street is, that they needed the help of a maid, and once she was done with her task, they paid her to leave and keep quiet." He started to laugh again, "Ever since they have been passing the bastard boy off as their own son. But let us be honest, that boy, will not strive to become anything, much less a king. He is more inclined to become a court entertainer or better yet a stable boy. A more suitable position for a bastard such as him."
Luna's eye twitched she always hated the word, 'Bastard.' Why should children be blamed for the faults of their parents or even be blamed for being born out of wedlock. It was not like they asked for this and how could they? Their only crime was that they were born and that was not only unfair but unjust.
"However, Lady Luna, you will not have to worry about them becoming king. For once I sit the throne, I will build a massive temple for you that would rival even the most magnificent of gods. It will indeed capture your beauty, grace, and..." She tuned him out.
'By the stars!' Luna sighed in exasperation. Her patience was quickly wearing thin. She needed an escape and fast.
HOWL!
Two loud wolf howls echoed throughout the square.
Everyone in the gathered area halted their movements. Heads quickly turning towards the noise. All conversations, (thankfully on Luna's part), ceasing.
Appearing at the edge of the large square was Aster and Nebula, with Stephanos and his sons' groups following close behind. Both groups found carts on their searches and in the carts, bodies.
Lifeless.
Mauled.
Rotting.
Luna's heart clenched at the sight of everyone's faces. Which were twisted into solemn expressions. Not out of failure, but out of sorrow for the dead they were hauling in. She continued to watch as the two groups stopped rolling the carts and how several people came up to see the bodies. Hoping that the faces they would gaze upon wouldn't be someone they knew. Sadly, the sounds of weeping and some screams of anguish reached her divine ears. Her eyes misted as she gazed at several people holding on to one another or dropping to the ground, their hearts heavy. As they had to deal with the reality that their loved ones were torn away from them way too early.
She understood all too well that feeling; the feeling as if your heart was in unimaginable pain. Almost as if it were being ripped from your chest and stomped into the dirt. Luna could relate, for she felt the same when she lost someone dear to her heart.
Her love.
Her light.
Her other half.
Her Esten.
Luna's heart broke at the thought of him. He was her only true love and she dreamed of a life with him. However, fate was not kind, and he was taken from her. She remembered countless nights she mourned for him after his passing. Eyes heavy with tears, her grief draped over her like a black shroud. If it wasn't for her children, her family, as well as her dear friends she would have faded from existence. So, she knew that these people were strong enough to bounce back from all this pain and loss.
The goddess watched as multiple people came over and took the bodies to prepare them for the funeral pyre.
Diligent hands tended to the corpses, despite some being mangled beyond recognition. Lysandra along with the women and some men, worked in complete silence. At times they did speak only to give orders but other than that it was silent. The children weren't laughing and why should they for there was nothing to laugh or smile about. Some people sat quietly in different sections around the once bustling marketplace either lost in their own world, watching the bodies being prepared, or even gazing tragically at the pyre, where some bodies were already ready.
The goddess sensed heaviness in the air, it was choking and was expected.
"My Lady?"
Luna turned to her right and found Stephanos standing there with his sons. Very soon after she saw them Tallan perched on her right shoulder with Aster and Nebula following close behind. Both wolves coming to stand beside their mistress, Aster on her left and Nebula on her right. When Luna's eyes set to three men before her, they bowed in respect.
"Pardon me and my sons, Lady Luna. But we were hoping to have a few words with you."
Luna smiled at the man for his show of respect and his kindness. That seemed fleeting sometimes. But before she could say anything to either one of them. The oafish and arrogant voice of Gorgios spoke.
"The goddess doesn't have time for your drivel, blacksmith," he replied with a disdainful look in his puke green eyes. "Lady Luna has more pressing matters to concern herself with. She doesn't need to speak to lowly peasants such as you and your. . ." Gorgios trailed off. His eyes raked over the three males. The noblemen's face gave off a look of pure disgust before he turned his nose up at them and gave them a look. A look that Luna knew and experienced all too well. A look that she will forever despise.
A look of inferiority.
". . . Brood," he finished. Which caused Luna's anger to bubble beneath the surface.
Stephanos's eldest son, Dareios, face scrunched up in anger. "'She has important matters?'" He mocked, "Like what, Lord Gorgios?" He glared at him in challenge, "Like overseeing the people of this polis after the attack?" Dareios took a slight step forward, his voice shifting an octave deeper. "Or being forced to endure your delusions?"
Everyone in the small group had mixed reactions. Stephanos tried to calm his son from saying more than he should. However, the man did show signs of a small smile. Simon, the youngest son, was trying and failing to stifle his laughter. Tallan let out an amused croak from Luna's shoulder. Meanwhile, Aster and Nebula let out huffs of amusement themselves. Luna, who had experience of masking her emotions, did indeed find the comment amusing (since that was exactly what had been happening). Had to cover her laughter with a cough, maintaining her divine and regal composure.
Gorgios, however, was enraged at the show of disrespect, especially since he was embarrassed in front of a powerful goddess. His face then contorted in fury and turned beet red. He stepped forward ready to berate the young soldier for his insolence, but before the man could say anything, Luna swiftly stepped in with regalness and divine grace, defusing the rapidly growing tension forming amongst their odd group.
"Please everyone let us not quarrel," the goddess spoke to them all kindly but firmly. "I understand that with the circumstances we are all in that tensions are running high." She then reached her right hand up to stroke Tallan's head, which the bird greatly appreciated and gave out another croak in gratitude.
"However, that does not mean we need to fight and bicker amongst ourselves like children." She then fixed all four men with a look, before turning to Dareios, "I know that what you need to speak to me about is important but remember that Gorgios is your lord. Your leader. You must show him some respect. Is that clear?"
Dareios swallowed, bowed his head and nodded at the goddess's words, but he was not pleased with showing that disgusting snake any respect. Gorgios on the other hand was smug, delighted that the goddess took his side, or so he thought.
"The same goes for you Gorgios," Luna swiftly replied, sensing the growing smugness of the man. "These men have the right to want to discuss important matters concerning this polis. Your polis. You should show them respect as well, for they are your people. Do not send them away just because they are lower than your station because positions do not last and can easily be stripped." She paused letting her words sink in, "Do I make myself clear?"
When Luna said this, everyone saw a knowing glint in the goddess's eyes, a sign that she knew more than what she was letting on. But the statement left everyone with different reactions, Stephanos and his sons had a strange feeling of relief. Meanwhile, Gorgios had a strong feeling of dread, washed over him as if he was facing the chopping block, like his entire way of life was going to be cut clean and he felt as if standing directly in front of Hades would be more comforting than what awaited him.
The man gulped before slightly bowing to her and let out a shaky, "Understood, my lady."
Luna kept her eyes trained on the man, her gaze piercing and leaving no room for ill comments. Gorgios, despite being a fool, was smart enough not to overstep his bounds. The woman in front of him maybe kind and justly, but she was still a divine being, a goddess. A goddess that could easily wipe him from this world if she wanted. Gorgios knew she was complacent now but only time would tell how she treated those who dissatisfied her or went against her wishes and how harshly the punishment would be depends heavily on the offence.
As Gorgios slowly rose, he almost was afraid to meet the goddess's eyes like he did before, and he did not have the slightest idea why. When Gorgios rose up completely, he was greeted by a smile from the goddess, but the smile upon closer inspection held little warmth to it.
"Thank you, my lord. I am glad we have come to an understanding, now please go and check on your family while I attend to other matters." Luna then turned away from the nobleman and diverted her attention to the father and his sons. The goddess didn't need to elaborate further for Gorgios to know that her statement was a dismissal. Gorgios reluctantly did as the goddess ordered, but as he walked away the wound of his pride steadily grew.
The moment Gorgios left, Luna let out a breath of relief, glad to be free of the entitled noble. She fully turned her attentions to Stephanos and his sons. "I must indeed thank you, all three of you, for the intervention. One more word out of his mouth and I would have turned him into a squealing pig." They all shared a laugh.
"Father saw you were in trouble, my lady, he suggested we come to help. He knew how much of a bruited show boater that Gorgios was. He probably wouldn't have let you go any time soon." Simon, Stephanos's youngest son, said, and Luna couldn't help but feel touched by the revelation. To know that this man was the one to help her, a goddess, out was truly endearing, and it brought a warm smile to her lips.
"Your efforts have indeed shown some merit and will be rewarded greatly, kind Stephanos," Luna said proudly.
Stephanos rubbed his head sheepishly. "I did not do this for any reward, lady Luna. I just did what I felt was right."
Luna just hummed and stroked the fur of both her wolves before pulling away to clasp her hands together in front of her. "Sometimes, Stephanos, that is enough."
Stephanos locked eyes once again with Luna and he was amazed to see not only her orbs of purest sapphire blue, but the cosmos dance in her pupils. Stars being born, comets shooting across the blackened sky with their tails of fire, and big, round, and beautiful rocks twirling in a seemingly endless dance. The sight was marvelous to the eyes, that all the mortal man could do was swallow and nod his head at her causing the goddess to smile slightly.
"How about we head over to where your wife and daughters are, and you can tell me everything." The goddess suggested, and the three men agreed and proceeded to walk and talk to the goddess with her two wolves following behind and her raven resting comfortably on her shoulder.
As they walked the four talked about the process of preparing the dead for the funeral pyre. Luna listened as Stephanos told her that a man elderly man named Nikanor and his grandson, Hesperian found a chest full of drachmas under one of the destroyed market stalls. The man then went on to say that the gold coins were being placed into the mouths of the deceased as they speak and were ready for Hermes to take them to the other side.
Luna beamed at this news, happy that the perished souls would not have to wait long to cross into the afterlife. However, her smile gave way when she realized something very crucial.
"I must apologize Stephanos, but it seems I must take care of something for a moment. Would you mind taking Aster, Nebula, and Tallan back with you towards the rest of your family, please?" The goddess had asked.
Stephanos glanced towards his sons, almost seeming unsure about her request, but they nodded and bowed, nonetheless. "We do not mind at all, my lady."
Of course, at this, Tallan and Aster tried to protest until Nebula made both the bird and her mate see reason by saying, "Our lady can handle herself, what is our job to question her?" In the end, the pair agreed, (although reluctantly), to go with Stephanos and his sons with Tallan hitching a ride on Simon's right shoulder and the two wolves following behind.
As they walked away, Luna journeyed a little way from the square where everyone decided to gather and stay close. The traumatic events from the night before, leaving a horrible engraving on everyone's mind and unintentionally causing everyone to silently agree that it was better to stay together than to be separated. That and they just wanted to be close to Luna and she did not mind in the slightest. For she knew that the people felt much safer around her and wanted to be close in case something happened. Plus, it was not every day that one got to meet and see a goddess up close, so the experience was awe-inspiring.
When she was far enough away from everyone else, Luna stood in a secluded spot near the square. Gazing up at the barrier, she opened a wide enough hole to allow 'him' to pass on through. Once the hole was opened, she did not have to wait long before she felt another divine presence enter the area.
This presence carried a hint of mischief and revelry, a presence she had not felt or seen in a long time. She was slightly nervous about this reunion, since she hadn't seen him in quite a while, but if the souls of the dead were going to make it through to the underworld. He needed to be here for it.
Whoosh!
A cloud of dust kicked up in front of her, and the sudden gust of wind caused her braided hair to blow. Luna had to squint and place her hand in front of her face to shield it from the oncoming gathering of dirt.
The moment the dust settled, Luna lowered her hand and was greeted by a familiar face, though older than when she'd last seen it. In front of her was a man, and not a man, but a god. He stood a few inches taller than her and his skin was slightly tanned. He was lean but muscular. His face only showed his mouth and nose, but his eyes were obscured by his winged helm. The god was shirtless, but he wore a long red cape and a tanned skirt that ended at the middle of his thighs. In his left hand he carried a golden rod with wings at the top and two golden serpents entwined on the golden rod, the 'Caduceus.' An item Luna remembered all too well, but this wasn't what identified the unnamed god to her.
No.
In fact, it was the golden and leather winged sandals that rested on his feet, which was a testament to his role and his identity.
When the god's gaze was upon hers, his face held a look of shock and disbelief.
"Hello, Hermes." Her voice carried a quaking nervousness. "It has been quite some time, hasn't it?"
Silence, that was all that stood between them now, a heavy suffocating silence. This was one of the moments she was waiting for, has been waiting for. She just hopes it will go how she envisioned it to be.
Slowly, she raised her arms and met his invisible gaze with her kind one, hoping that this was the right call.
Luna waited with her breathing being as tense as she was, watching to see what the messenger of the mighty Greek gods would do next.
Hermes released his Caduceus, and it fell to the ground with a clang. Luna's eyes darted to the staff wondering why Hermes released it from his grip in such a way. Her question was soon answered when she was wrapped in a warm embrace. Hermes held her tightly, strong arms holding her frame to his, Luna although shocked returned the embrace without hesitation. Tears formed in her eyes, and she was not the only one because she felt Hermes shaking in her hold and she could tell, he was happy to see her too.
"I know, I know," she patted his back gently like she used to do with him when he was but a child. "I missed you too, little brother."
"I-I just can't believe it's you, you're back," he had released a shaky sob from his throat trying to hold back the tears that were threatening to spill over. "Everyone searched for you, I searched and when we couldn't find you I . . ."
Luna shushed him gently and she felt Hermes's tears hit the exposed fabric that her armor didn't cover, soaking it slightly, but she didn't care. She just continued to hold the weeping god in her arms.
After a few minutes went by the god began to compose himself. The tears that were once flooding from his eyes were now drying up like water in the desert. Soon, Hermes pulled away slowly, still not fully ready to let go, but he knew he had to. When he finally stepped out of her embrace, he let out a broken laugh.
"I didn't think that I would be bawling my eyes out today, but here I am," he said while opening his arms wide in a grand gesture. This caused Luna to laugh and shake her head, "Just the same as I remember. You haven't changed a bit haven't you, Hermes?"
"Well, other than the fact that I am taller and much easier on the eyes," Hermes struck a pose. "Then, no, I say I haven't changed much. Unlike you have, as I can clearly see."
Hermes then gestured to her attire, his eyes raking over her battle armor and the sword hanging on her left hip.
Luna had indeed changed in his eyes, much more than he could have imagined.
He remembered her when she used to live with them on Olympus, before she left. She was always kind, loving, caring, loyal, and sweet to a fault. Unfortunately, though, he always seemed to recall her being more anti-social sometimes. She always kept to herself, and she never spoke up or out of turn. She was just dutiful that way. However, it left her vulnerable, too, and easy to take advantage of.
When he first met her, she was the wife of his older half-brother, Ares, but the more he spent time with his family. Hermes became drawn immediately, to Luna's caring nature which held a warmth to it that was comforting and protective. Over the short amount of time, he had begun to know Luna, he didn't see her as a mere sister-in-law. Instead, he began to really see her as his sister.
Which was why her disappearance took an even heavier toll on him all those years ago. For he didn't just lose a sister that day, he lost one of his dearest friends.
Now as he looked at her, she not only changed in appearance, but her aura changed sufficiently as well.
Luna's face still held the kindness that he remembered long ago, but her eyes held wisdom that was beyond her years. When Hermes looked deeper, he found that she also held a fierceness and confidence he had never once seen in her before. Her body stance was not slightly hunched and submissive anymore, now she stood tall and regal, like a queen. As if she could conquer the world, if she hadn't already.
Hermes had to admit, this new look fit her perfectly. However, there was one thing that nagged him at the back of his mind, and that was. . .
"Where have you been, this entire time!?" He exclaimed, then he started to pace back and forth as if he were a caged animal. "No note! Or any sign that you were alright! You just up and left, and Demeter was sure you were kidnapped."
"Hermes."
"Zeus ordered search parties upon search parties, to find you but nothing! Months of just no leads or anything."
"Hermes."
"Oh, and do not get me started on Nyx's reaction when she found out. She was so livid. I swear I had nightmares of her anger for weeks."
"Hermes."
"And my brother, you were his wife, but he acted like your disappearance was an inconvenience for him can you believe that?! You think that he would be the main one to at least be more devasted to have his wife missing, but nooo, instead he was the least bit worried. It was almost as if he was glad that you were gone." The swift god flailed his arms about as he continued to ramble. Luna stared at him in exasperation, but also warmth for it was nice to know someone amongst the gods felt for her pain. Even though Hermes didn't know the full story.
"If it were up to me, I would have snapped him into looking for you, and you know I would." Hermes then put his left hand on his hip and used his right hand to snap his fingers in a sassy way. "I mean seriously how could -"
"Hermes!"
The god paused his ranting and faced his sister, confusion swirling in his gaze. Luna approached him with a kind but almost sad smile on her serene face and placed her right hand on his left shoulder in a comforting gesture.
"Hermes, brother, I thank you for your concern, and your anger towards the injustice that I was dealt. However, there is a matter right now that needs your attention more than I do. Some poor mortal souls need to journey to the underworld, and they need you to guide them. They have been through so much and they need to be put to rest, so their suffering can end, and their loved ones can be at peace." She then lifted her hand from his shoulder. The warmth of her touch was gone, as Hermes had once again grown accustomed to the familiarity of her presence.
Even though Hermes knew his job and was willing to lead the dearly departed to their final resting places, he still felt uneasy about all of this. His millions upon millions of questions, being left unanswered, did little to ease his troubled state.
Unlike before when he was forced to the unknown, he was not about to leave when he finally had a way out and an answer to this ongoing mystery.
"I understand that sis, as you said it is my job," he had repeated back while levitating his Caduceus back into his awaiting right hand. "Under other circumstances, I would have already completed my given task, but today is not a typically normal day. And that's coming from me of all beings, and I am the most unnormal person, er, God you could ever meet."
Luna laughed and shook her head at her younger brother's antics. By the stars, she'd missed this. Missed him. "Hermes, I completely understand your point, but please understand mine. We need to focus on the more pressing matters at hand, which is the people of this polis and their needs."
"But I have so many questions," the messenger god reiterated. "I still need to know some things, Luna; I mean you have been gone for a little over half a century."
Luna nodded solemnly, "I know, and I promise that I will tell you everything. I swear to you, all will be made clear," she held his gaze, "but let us finish our business here first, and make sure these people are well taken care of. Then and only then will the truth come to light; can you accept this brother?"
"No! Absolutely not." He responded childishly, but the stern look from the goddess before him made him rethink his words.
Hermes just groaned and tossed his head back and whined, "Fine! I'll go and do my duty, even though I don't want to. You owe me by the way!"
"I know I do, now go and do your job, Hermie," she replied with her arms crossed while smirking at him.
Hermes paused a bit, his heart warming at the old nickname she used to give him. A nickname he thought he would never hear again. Smiling Hermes tipped up his helm a little with his Caduceus and gave a chuckle, "See you soon, Lulu."
In the blink of an eye, Hermes was gone. The only evidence that he was there was the settling cloud of dust that was left behind in his wake.
Luna shook her head at his antics and made her way back to the square. Reminiscing of the joyous times she had once had on Mount Olympus.
The laughter.
The fun.
The moments that will forever be happily seared into her brain for the rest of time. She will miss those moments, but she will not regret the moments she has made now and the new memories she was already making. Only, time will tell.
The minute Luna made it back into the square she was rushed by a horde of children, who immediately came to greet her. All lead by Diantha who told them of the wonderful goddess who she personally got to meet.
Luna greeted every child with kindness and care until Lysandra, Diantha's mother, came with some of the other women to corral the children away.
"I deeply apologize my lady; we weren't expecting the children to get away from us the way they did." Lysandra bowed deeply, a look of deep shame marring her face.
"Rise, Lysandra wife of Stephanos," the goddess gently commanded. To which Lysandra did so without fault or hesitation, scratch that, mild hesitation. "I do not need you to bow to me, and you needn't worry about the children. They were very sweet, and kind reminds me of my own."
"You have children, my lady?" The shocked tone from the woman did not go unnoticed by the goddess.
"Yes, I have three wonderful and beautiful children, that I wouldn't replace, nor would I live to be without. Just like how you are with yours." She then nodded her head in the direction of Diantha who now sat with her father and siblings. Having her hair braided by her elder sister Adara. "I can see clearly, that through you and your husband's guidance they will grow to be exceptional men and women."
Lysandra felt the stinging sensation of tears pricking from her eyes at the goddess's words. "Thank you, my lady. You do not understand how much that means to me. As a woman and a mother."
Luna just smiled knowing how she felt the similar feeling once long ago, "There is no need to thank me, Lysandra. For all I did was just speak the truth."
The mortal woman then raised her hand to brush away the tears that were streaming down her tanned face. She was about to say something else, until her husband arrived.
When Stephanos approached, he bowed to Luna and kissed his wife on the hand, showing his love and respect towards her. A sight that Luna was glad to see, but then Stephanos turned to face the goddess with his expression conveying a silent message. He glanced towards the pyre, then to her and Luna immediately understood.
It was time.
After a few minutes, everyone in the polis gathered in the center of the market square where the pyre rested.
As was tradition, one by one different sets of individuals spoke on behalf of their fallen loved one. Young and old, came to speak and wish prayers upon their dead. Then afterwards it was time for the funeral pyre to be lit.
Before the pyre was lit, everyone agreed that it should be Luna who would do the honors of setting the flames. Luna almost declined, but the hopeful faces of the people changed her decision. When someone ordered for a torch to be brought to her, Luna quickly declined it and to everyone's awe blue fire lit in her right palm. With a simple thrust of her hand, the blue flames set to the pyre, and it started to burn.
The once blue flames, quickly turning to a bright orange and yellow.
~ * ~
Luna opened her eyes as she finished diving into the past. Her memories of what was before coming to welcome back the present.
As she continued to stare into the pyre's flames. Luna didn't have to look around at the people to see their reactions to the majestic Pyre, instead she could hear them.
Their wails of grief.
Their silent sniffles of sorrow.
Their heavy prayers to Hermes for the dead's safe passage into the afterlife.
Luna also could feel their grief. The pain and loss that the mortals were experiencing as they burn away their loved ones.
Their friends.
Their neighbors.
A strong heaviness encased the area in a suffocating hold, the air almost choking.
During all this grief an old hymn that she had once read came into the goddess' mind. It was song of the 'Sea of Stars', the Astronovian version of the fields of Elysium. Where souls went to rest and find peace amongst the vast realm of stars. A world of color and tranquility, harmony and serenity. A song with such a peaceful, but haunting melody that was spoken in the olden tongue as tradition for the deceased. A prayer not only for those who passed to have a peaceful rest, but for the living who must also find peace after their loved ones passed.
The last time she sang it was at Estan's funeral, when she had put his soul to rest. As those memories flooded back, she didn't even realize she was crying. Nor did she realize that her lips opened to sing the song, she thought she would never have to sing again.
Through the wind and through the gale, we have come to part.
Even though the day has paled, we can have a new start.
The wind does blow, and the seasons go, and time never stops.
No matter the pain, I have gained, my tears refuse to drop.
Sea of stars.
Bring them peace. Bring them love and hope.
Sea of stars.
Symphony, singing the songs of joy.
Sea of stars.
Hear my plea, oh heaven of lights.
Sea of stars.
Comfort me, with the knowledge of life.
Help my heart, be set free as I lay them to rest.
Oh! Sweet stars, loving stars. Lay them all to rest.
Sea of stars. Wise, old Stars.
Bring us peace at last.
As Luna finished her song, she failed to see the enchanted faces of the people. Many held looks of awe, and some held smiles on their faces, but not one dry eye was left in the crowd. Everyone in the polis, both young and old, shed many tears despite not even knowing the meaning behind the foreign lyrics. It was the melody that the goddess sung that touched them to their core. Some people were openly sobbing but not so loud it ruined the enchanting atmosphere. While others had their tears streaming silently down their faces, not willing to utter a sound, even their breathing was shallow.
Hermes was even there; after escorting the souls to the underworld, he came back to see his sister so that they could talk like they promised. As he stood invisible amongst the crowd near the said goddess, he wasn't expecting to hear the lovely song that left his sister's lips. A beautiful and harmonious song in a language he has never once heard. It brought several tears to his eyes as well, and he felt his heart strangely become heavy before it lightened, and he felt his emotions burst like a dam.
'What I wouldn't give for Apollo to hear this," he had thought his eyes still trained on Luna. He now had even more questions for the goddess, but he would have to wait to have them all answered.
After a while the pyre finally went out and there was a moment of silence for the departed. No one spoke. No one even huffed out a sigh. It was just pure silence.
Soon, after the few minutes of silence, Luna's wolves Aster and Nebula howled in unison. A loud mournful sound, that shook some to their cores.
When the howling was silenced, Luna stepped forward as if she was heading towards the pyre's ruins. Only to stop and face the people.
In front of the crowd Stephanos and his family stood on her right. With Stephanos holding his wife and their children standing around them, and little Diantha's hand grasping her mother's left.
On her left side, stood Gorgios and the other nobles and had a few guards surrounding them. It made sense, they were still nobles after all.
Speaking of the guards, majority of them stood posted around the square. Ready for any sign of danger that came their way.
Aster, Nebula, and Tallan, (who was resting on Aster's head), stood in the front of the crowd next to an invisible Hermes. Luna gave a small subtle nod to her brother who nodded in return and gave a two fingers salute to the goddess. Even though he was invisible to the eyes of the mortals, she could still see him clearly as day.
As her eyes surveyed the crowd, Luna noticed how just like before the nobles and the commonfolk tended to separate themselves from one another. She guessed that it was expected, the rich and wealthy do not mix with the poor and unfortunate. Either way, she had a major task to do, and she needed both sides for the task and the willingness of a certain someone to seal the deal. In order for this polis to become something great. Luna knew that a few changes had to be made.
Luna closed her eyes briefly, taking in a slow and steady inhale before letting go and breathing out a long calming exhale. She touched her chest with her right hand where she knew her amulet would be.
'Ground yourself, Luna,' she mentally told herself. 'It is time to show them the type of person you truly are. A goddess and an empress.'
Luna then lowered her hand, so she could clasp both of her hands together in front of her.
'Be strong.'
She inhaled then exhaled.
'Be calm.'
Luna then stood up straighter.
'Be confident.'
She raised her head high.
'Be regal.'
Then she gracefully opened her eyes, and everyone was in awe at how her eyes seemed to almost glow, despite the day slowly slipping away.
'Finally, be clear and assertive. You are a ruler, an empress, show them who you are. Be the goddess that you are.'
Then she opened her mouth to speak.
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Pictures
Lysandra (43 years old) - Wife of Stephanos - Diantha's mother:
Dareios (21 years old) - Stephanos's eldest son:
Simon (17 years old) - Stephanos's youngest son:
Gorgios (56 years old) - The Nobleman:
