Pandora's Quest

By Cathy Walker

The gods are not beyond making mistakes. Their creation of Pandora and the box lays the foundation for the destruction of Atlantis and possibly the gods themselves.

Apollo falls in love with Pandora and disguises himself to win her heart without his position as a god to influence her. His plan goes well until Hades, God of the Underworld, entices Pandora into his temple and tempts her to open the box gifted to her by Zeus. The box holds an untold power that Hades wants to harness for his own selfish purposes.

Hades tests Apollo and Pandora's love by manipulating circumstances until neither of them trust or believe in the other. On a clifftop above Atlantis, with a storm raging all around, Pandora must choose between love or power, not realizing her decision could destroy Atlantis and the gods forever.

Reincarnated into present day as different people with no memory of their past, Pandora and Apollo relive buried emotions and right the wrongs of long ago. Drawn together into a dangerous situation, their guides, Poseidon and Athena, help them rekindle their love. Learning to trust and believe in each other is the key to opening the box and letting out the hope trapped within.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Cathy Walker
• Release date: Mar 27, 2022
• ISBN: 9798201973247

Cathy Walker

Books have fueled my imagination since reading the Black Stallion series when I was younger. Never thinking that I could actually write a book, I sat down and began writing anyway. I now have multiple published books and more on the way. All of them with a theme of myths, legends, romance, or fantasy. I am fortunate enough to live on a farm filled with animals to love and care for. Every morning my dogs, cats, goats, and horses greet me at the barnyard. Spending time with them helps motivates me to write. I also design book covers for various genres. Premade covers are on my website for sale, but I also do custom covers.

Book preview

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Centuries Ago

Flames of orange and blue shimmered in the smooth crystal of the ancient oracle. Visions of pandemonium within the crystal's depths kept the two watchers enthralled, while the raging thunderstorm struck fear in their hearts.

Gaia, are you certain we did the right thing? Zeus tore his gaze from the crystal and fixed it intently on the goddess. He dared a lot, but his conscience prodded even his jaded sensibilities into questioning the Earth Mother.

When Gaia spoke, her voice hummed with the power of the planet she claimed as her own and the words drifted amongst the clouds to meld with Zeus's mind. I'm afraid events are in motion and out of our control now. Do not doubt our decision.

Zeus squinted into the prism colors of the crystal innocently perched upon an intricately carved marble table. His heart wrenched upon seeing familiar faces of people racing from fallen buildings.

They race for the ships. Not all will make it, will they?

A shadow of sadness touched Mother Earth's haunted features. No, she whispered. They will not all make the ships. Many will perish in their scramble for freedom.

Constrictions banded Zeus's chest as he heard the screams of the trampled people. Lost forever in their desperate flight.

Gaia touched a shaking finger to the cool crystal. Poseidon and Athena still argue. They are oblivious to the fire, destruction, and death surrounding them.

Zeus's gaze fell to the images of his brother and daughter, mere specks in the crystal oracle. He vibrated with the anger of their battle and the havoc they wreaked upon the city. Could they not see the damage caused by their constant bickering?

Clouding briefly into a mist of mystery, the crystal cleared to reveal a cliff top. Cold reality tore through his veins. She opened the box. Fates. What have I done? His raspy whisper drifted across the room, out the window, and to the waiting bank of darkness above. A torrent of rain slashed from the broken clouds.

You cannot blame yourself entirely Zeus, the responsibility for this ravaging of Atlantis lies with many. Too many of us ignored the warning signs.

Gaia's soft voice nearly soothed Zeus into believing he was not at fault, but her quick gasp jerked him back to reality.

What do you see?

Pandora jumped. Look. Gaia pointed to a spot low in the crystal. She lies on the sharp rocks below the cliff top. She jumped rather than allow Hades to have his way. And here. She pointed to a pathway winding down the cliff. Apollo climbs down to her side.

The crystal's image faded. Zeus briefly glimpsed the pale broken image of a woman, her figure lying in bas-relief against the wet, gray rocks. He detected a flash of fair hair as his favorite son bent over the broken body. Then it all disappeared, leaving only a crystal of perfect design and a dull ache of emptiness.

With a broken heart, he turned to Gaia. I suppose we will let the chaos settle and then call the gods to Mount Olympus.

Yes, you make the arrangements. I will stand with you. As she spoke, Gaia's form softened into a wisp of light mist and disappeared into the slashing rain of the heavens.

A last flash from the crystal revealed Pandora's box rise from the stone altar, hover for a moment, and then disappear in a streaking bolt of light.

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Zeus, ruler of the heavens, sat upon his throne and drank heartily from his golden cup of ambrosia before placing it on the ivory table beside him. Wearily, he rubbed his eyes and scrutinized his opulent surroundings.

Perched on Mount Olympus, one of the highest peaks in the world, the palace was worthy of the greatest of gods. Mother of pearl carved pillars graced the throne room and rendered a stark contrast to the black marble floors polished daily to a luminescent glow. Furnished with items handmade by the world's greatest craftsmen and offered to the gods in hopes of divine consideration.

Overpowering it all, a solid gold dining table with ivory tabletop and accompanying ivory chairs occupied the center of the room. Smaller tables hand carved of rich, red mahogany sat scattered around the room, as well as a plethora of golden bowls, delicate pottery, and woven tapestries.

Of all his possessions, Zeus's favorite was the throne upon which he sat. Carved from dark mahogany, inlaid with gold, jewels, and cushioned with silk-covered eiderdown, his throne symbolized power and position. Recognizing his feelings of pride and possessiveness, Zeus tamped the thoughts down as shame poured over him like warm liquid honey.

Enough. With a mighty roar, he swept his cup of ambrosia off the table and onto the marble floor, earning a flashing look of resentment from the maid who had just finished polishing.

Turning to the maid, Zeus commanded. Find my wife. I don't care what plot she's hatching, I want her here now. Tell my daughter, Athena, to join us immediately and send a summons for the rest of the gods, except for Poseidon. I will deal with him. Tell them I accept no excuse for their absence.

Wide-eyed with fright, the maid stuttered.My Lord...I...

The summons is from me. None will dare give you trouble. Go.

The young girl curtseyed and turned to leave, but Zeus's thundering voice halted her. Wait. I am hungry. Stop by the cook room, and have them prepare boiled wild rice, green salad, followed by charbroiled lamb and roast pig. I can finish with some fresh fruits. Oh, and bring more ambrosia.

Hesitantly, the maid stood silent, waiting for more commands.

GO. Zeus bellowed and then experienced a twinge of guilt as the maid scampered off. Impatience. A sign of the effect of retaining a physical body for too long.

As much as he dreaded the coming torrent of emotions, it was time to call his brother. Poseidon. God of the Sea. The petulant god had retreated to an island to sulk. Zeus focused his energy and shot a thunderbolt across the sky with a message ingrained within its force.

Enough is enough, Poseidon. Return to Olympus.

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The lightning bolt reverberated through all of Olympus. Athena, always sensitive to her father's moods, felt it most profoundly. Surveying her image in the mirror, Athena waged an internal age-old battle. Her mind's wisdom against the warrior deep within. She pursed her lips and admired her reflection. Shoulder length yellow-gold hair, gray eyes that shone with dark whirls of wisdom, classic-cut features, and slim build. Humans built temples world-wide in her name, and gods prostrated themselves, hoping to gain her sexual acquiescence. Athena shrugged at the strange proclivities of the male species.

Tell me, Idara. Athena addressed her maid. Do you consider the gods superior to you?

Idara paused. Her hands motionless on the silk fabric she had laid on the bed. Why...yes, of course. She continued to smooth the wrinkles in the silken gown.

Athena pursed her lips and spoke. It makes sense that the strong prevail. That is the way of the universe. And surely the weaker human species cannot stop us from exerting our superior powers and abilities?

Of course not, Mistress.

But does it bother you that our powers are greater? Athena stopped her primping and turned the full force of her gaze upon Idara.

The maid lowered her head. Please, Mistress, it is better that you do not ask such questions.

But I have asked and I want answers.

Do not hold my reply against me.

Desperate for answers to her conflicting emotions, Athena said. I release you from any punishment, even if your reply does not suit me.

Idara considered her words. Mistress, it is not your superior powers we resent. It is how you use your powers to abuse and manipulate. We live simple lives, yet are constantly at the mercy of the god's moods and whims.

Idara's voice picked up momentum as she spoke, her eyes filled with tears, and her chest heaved. The god Hades killed my brother for not offering enough sheep in tribute. My mother was sick, and we needed the food, yet Hades staked Moiron in the heat of the sun and left him to die of thirst. The wild animals of the forest then ate his body. No one could help on threat of the same death. Pain and fear edged Idara's voice and caused Athena a twinge of guilt at her uncle's actions.

You cannot judge us all by Hades. He is cruel and enjoys causing pain.

He's not the only one. Many of you think only of yourselves when you set your mind on matters of ownership or tributes.

Enough! Athena snapped. I have heard enough. If you're not happy, you have the freedom to fight back. The strong survive and the weak die. It is the law of the warrior. Despite her harsh retort, Athena's wisdom waged an inner battle with the thought that the strong should take care of the weak rather than subjugate. Confused, she shook her head and decided she had no time for intellectual philandering while Zeus waited.

She was a goddess, daughter of God of the Heavens, and she would face her father with her head held high. Imperious and thoughtful, she spoke to her cowering maid. Fear not, I promised true. There will be no reprisals for your words. Now, prepare me in my full battle gear.

Her father admired strength, even if he himself had moments of weakness. Athena smiled wryly as she tried to imagine anyone making that statement out loud. Hera, possibly, as she possessed more nerve than wisdom.

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Silence greeted Hera, who strolled into the room as if expecting the world to grovel at her feet. Steadily she walked, but Zeus saw her heart beat swiftly beneath her silken gown. Rustling silk heralded her swaying procession across the marble floors toward her throne.

Long tresses of blond hair flowed down her back and her facial features fell just short of beautiful. Upon close inspection, one could see that the contours of her face were too sharp and her lips were naught but thin strips upon her face. Hera concealed these detriments well with makeup, creating a beauty of illusion.

Zeus sensed the anticipation in Hera's manner. His wife loved confrontational situations. As she approached, Hera bent briefly at the waist. Zeus narrowed his eyes at the insulting excuse for a bow, and watched his wife slowly, gracefully ascend her throne.

Her voice grated on his already sharpened nerves. You should banish them both and make them live in the physical world forever.

Amused at his wife's attempt to alienate those she cared little for, Zeus played along. Oh, really, and what purpose would that serve?

It would teach them a lesson for what they've done to us.

To us? Pray tell my dear, what imagined sins do you feel they have committed against us?

Nothing imagined about it. Athena and Poseidon have never liked me and they seldom show you the respect you deserve.

Neither do you, Zeus muttered.

I show you the same respect you show me. At least I am not off gallivanting around the world having affairs with half the mortals I see.

No, you're too busy manipulating lives.

I have no involvement in the childish contest of ego and power which Poseidon and Athena have become famous for. They sealed their own fate and you must punish them.

Zeus rose from his throne and paced the marble floor. Years of experience enabled him to tune out the whining voice of his wife.

Personally, I think...

I have no desire to know what you think. Keep your comments to yourself and be quiet.

Zeus's bellow shook the heavens and reached the ears of those close by. His wife possessed a jealous and manipulative nature, and Zeus knew his frequent transgressions intensified these tendencies. As long as he kept his affairs secret, Mount Olympus was a peaceful place. Unfortunately, Hera was skilled at finding out the truth, which resulted in bouts of violent raging tempers.

Athena's silent, yet forceful, entrance to the throne room conveniently halted the argument. Zeus's demeanor softened upon the sight of his warrior daughter.

Greetings, Father. Athena kneeled, her armor clanging on the cold marble floor and echoing into the distance.

Acknowledging her supplication, Zeus touched his staff to her shoulder. I bid you stand, my child. Zeus surveyed the warrior goddess. You look ready to do battle.

Athena's mouth twitched, her tone hinted at amusement. Is there not a battle on the horizon?

A knowing smile touched Zeus's lips, and he nodded. Yes, my child, your wisdom does not fail you.

Commotion in the corridor announced the other gods and put an abrupt end to further conversation. One by one, the gods of the heavenly realm took their seats and sat expectantly. Energy sparked in the room as Zeus's glare touched upon each of them. All beautiful. Some dark, some fair, but each of them exuded an aura of power and riches with their fine silks and elaborate jewels. A scene of beauty tainted with the sense of impending doom.

Finally, he spoke. You are wondering why I have requested your presence? Heads nodded in confirmation. First, I will tell you this; I have not destroyed Atlantis.

Zeus's proclamation brought a collective gasp from those seated. Poseidon jumped to his feet. His action sent his chair crashing to the marble floor. What? Atlantis is gone. I stood upon the earth as it shuddered and descended under the raging waters of the ocean.

Yes, the continent sank beneath the ocean, but rests there intact and protected until certain debts are paid and responsibilities met. Gaia and I decreed this ourselves.

Relieved, but gruff as always, Poseidon snorted. Well then, return Atlantis to me so I may return home.

No! The single word fell upon the room like a hammer.

What do you mean, no? This is foolishness. Return Atlantis to me. Now. Outraged, Poseidon pounded his fist on the marble-topped table.

Confusion spread among the gods, yet no one had the nerve to speak. No one dared move in case they incurred Zeus's wrath.

Zeus took a breath. He would keep his temper, no matter his brother's foul temper. Instilling his voice with calm, he spoke. We are more powerful, intelligent, and spiritual than humans, yet look at the example we set. We have brought about the destruction of the lifestyle humans have held onto for centuries. This is our fault. It was never meant for our kind to assume physical form, and doing so has altered us greatly. We are no longer what we used to be.

Humph! Humankind has done nothing but benefit from our presence among them. Poseidon crossed his arms and sat back in his chair with a satisfied snort.

No, they have not. With our presence, we have visited upon humans all kinds of evil. Disease, hunger, greed, jealousy, and hate. Are you all so blind to our guilt? We have taught man desecration of holy altars and sadistic treatment of fellow human beings. Poseidon and Athena, your constant battle over lands, possessions, and power has shown humans a path to follow which has helped in their own destruction.

Poseidon's petulant voice overrode Athena's. Do not blame me. I loved Atlantis and my people. It was you who destroyed it.

Listen closely to your words. I speak of the problems of all humans, and in your self-centered manner, you only hear blame placed on yourself. You speak of your people. They do not belong to you, and these problems are far larger than just Atlantis.

With his initial tirade over, Zeus softened his voice. In our manipulations and need for adulation, we taught spiritual and psychic powers and then showed man how to use them for irresponsible manipulation of the forces of nature. All of this we have done because we want people to revere and worship us. They offer us the best they have of their food, build altars, and give sacrifices. All hoping to find favor or to appease us when we get angry for some imagined slight. We have become cruel, egotistical, and materialistic. We have learned to use people as pawns for our enjoyment, sometimes even at the cost of their lives.

Anger fired his impassioned speech. Our latest manipulations have been disastrous. Pandora and that damned box! What were we thinking when we created such a curse? This is not right or just, and it will not continue. I have spoken. Seething with anger, Zeus raised his sparking eyes in challenge.

For the sake of the Heavens, husband, we have done nothing wrong. It is human's own weakness that allows us to influence them. Besides, they are there for our amusement, otherwise, they would have powers, not us.

Hera, my dear wife. You are insipid and self-centered. People deserve respect and consideration, just as all living beings do. We have lost sight of this and allowed ourselves to become lost as well. Now we must pay the price.

Poseidon stood, His face flushed with anger. I care not about all this talk of debts and responsibilities. I want you to restore Atlantis so my people can return to their homes.

Zeus sighed. This was not going well. Pride and stubbornness ran strong in the blood of the gods. Angry at their arrogance and selfishness, Zeus thundered. I will not return Atlantis until all of you have learned humility, respect, and unconditional love. Even if it takes lifetimes.

Athena's velvety voice beseeched Zeus. Father, for once, I agree with Poseidon. Why don't you return Atlantis, so we may go on with our lives?

Disappointed with his daughter's lack of understanding, Zeus appealed to her. Daughter, this constant rivalry between you and Poseidon should shame you.

Emotions flashed across Athena's face as her gaze locked with his. The warrior within warred with the wisdom Zeus knew ran strongly through her. Two entities torn between logic and a baser instinct for survival of the fittest. He hoped her wisdom would reign over her warrior nature. If Athena agreed, it would convince the other gods, and the transition would be easier.

He saw the instant he won the battle. Pride filled him as Athena regally stood, held her head high, and advanced to the throne upon which he sat. His daughter, the Warrior Goddess. Or the Goddess of Wisdom, as he preferred, removed her battle helmet, placed it at his feet, and kneeled upon the marble floor.

I place my very soul in your power and trust you to mete out my destiny with wisdom and benevolence to whatever degree you feel is required.

Zeus's heart filled to overflowing. He placed his finger under her chin and raised her face, and his heart melted upon seeing unshed tears in amber eyes. My daughter, I have ever been fond of you and am proud that you step forward now. I cannot release you from your fate, but I assure you, the path ahead is equal to your crimes, which are not as malignant as some of the other gods. Now rise and return to your seat.

Thank you, my father. Athena returned to her seat and Zeus noted the dagger stares from the other gods who felt Athena had upstaged them in hopes of a lighter sentence.

Hades, God of the Underworld, interrupted his thoughts. Such a touching scene, but can we get this over with so I may return to the Underworld?

Zeus noted how even the shining brightness of Mount Olympus could not quell the darkness of his brother's complexion. Or the darkness of his soul.

Are you addled, or just arrogant enough to think none of this affects you? You, the worst offender of all, have the most to fear. With your midnight offerings and sacrifices, the people fear you enough to do what you tell them, but they hate you enough to curse you. You have no reverence for anyone, and you delight in tormenting the living and dead alike. Your rages and your evil practices are legendary. Yes, we may all be guilty of putting Pandora upon the earth, but you—you were the one who used her to further your powers. You are mainly responsible for bringing about the ultimate destruction of Atlantis. You have the most to make up for and as time passes, you will suffer much.

How dare you speak to me in such a manner? Hades spoke belligerently, yet his voice quivered. He grabbed his cloak of darkness, slung it across his shoulders, and strode away from the assembled gods.

They all watched his retreating form, yet Zeus made no move. As Hades reached the archway leading down to his underworld kingdom, the gods relaxed. Zeus knew they thought he was letting his brother go and all his bluster had been just that...another tantrum from Zeus.

Hades turned and shot a self-satisfied smirk his way and Zeus just smiled back at him. A brief look of confusion flitted across Hades's face, but he turned to step through the archway only to find the way barred by a familiar figure. A figure who evoked fear and reverence in even the gods of Olympus.

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The being emanated power that echoed within the essence of every god. All knew who she was, although no one except Zeus had ever laid eyes on her. Simple clothes of soft, pastel-colored silk draped around her luscious figure and radiated warmth and light. Long hair tumbled over shoulders in golden waves.

Zeus sighed at her beauty. He also knew she would appear different to each of the gods. To some, she would be beautiful. To others, powerful and intimidating. She could be soft and loving, or fierce and unforgiving. She was as changeable as the energies of weather that swirled about the universe.

Gaia.

Mother Earth.

When she spoke, everyone listened. Let Zeus continue. I am here to make sure there are no misunderstandings. Her voice was gentle, and she infused calm into the charged atmosphere. All eyes followed Gaia as she flowed gracefully across the cool marble floor. She came to a standstill in front of Hera, who sat arrogantly upon the throne.

A silent battle sparked, and although Hera stood and offered her throne to Gaia, Zeus knew his wife seethed beneath her calm exterior. With a nod of acknowledgment, Gaia ascended the throne and lowered herself.

Iridescent blue eyes surveyed the gods, and Gaia decreed. No one is to leave while Zeus speaks.

Zeus and Gaia ruled Heaven and Earth. No one could defy them while they stood in unison. The demeanor of the gods quickly shifted to one of fear.

Choosing his words carefully, Zeus spoke. I shall now decree judgement based on the fiasco with Pandora's box.

Hermes, the messenger, stood and bowed. With all due respect, opening the box was Pandora's choice, and you cannot hold us accountable for her actions.

We are all responsible for the effect of that accursed box. Zeus snorted in disgust. We should have left well enough alone when we punished Prometheus and Epimetheus.

Angry with himself, Zeus pointed a finger at the still standing Hermes. You are responsible, as much as any of us, for Pandora opening the box.

But she opened the box for her own personal gain, not because of any cunning or curiosity I may have instilled in her.

And she would not have been in the situation in the first place if you had not given her the ability to deceive and lie when you created her. Zeus's anger mounted.

Storm clouds gathered outside the palace pillars. Zeus's anger drew the energies of nature, and as he came closer to an explosion of emotions, the clouds became darker and more menacing. The atmosphere in the throne room muffled to a deadly hush as the gods tried to digest what they had heard. It was time to enlighten them.

Enough! Our actions have set evils upon the world that we ourselves once learned to overcome. Now, it is time to relearn. We must become human and learn to live as they do.

Silence hung heavy as the disbelieving gods tried to comprehend their fate.

As usual, Poseidon voiced his views first. You cannot expect us to follow such a decree. It makes no sense. Zeus, speak clearly, as your words make no sense.

Zeus was weary. He turned his back on the gods and took a moment of pleasure to enjoy the surrounding scene. He loved how the palace sparkled and shimmered with a luminance breathtaking to behold. Steeples rose so high they disappeared into a clouded mist. Below, a wide bank of stairs led down Mount Olympus to the earth. Smooth faced mountains rose gracefully on either side of the steps. A waterfall was located down the mountain. The steps twisted and curved to make their way around the falls and continued on between two pillars of marble, which marked the entrance to the home of the gods. Heavenly light illuminated this journey from earth to the celestial paradise on top of the world. A beautiful but treacherous journey usually made only by the gods themselves.

Zeus, I demand an answer. Poseidon prodded.

Zeus kept his gaze on the beauty before him and answered. All gods will become human. You will attain the physical form and keep it. No longer will you be able to assume your energy form. You will have no memory of who or what you are, and you must learn all the lessons you have learned and forgotten. You must learn respect, humility, compassion, and unconditional love.

Zeus prepared himself for the onslaught of protest. Hades spoke first.

You are insane. I suspected as much, but now I am sure. Why must we give up what we are? We have already learned these lessons you speak of?

THEN YOU WILL RELEARN THEM. The pillars shook and released the rain that hung in dark clouds around the palace and most of the gods trembled.

Zeus sighed and turned back to the gods. His family. Destiny is now in motion.

Zeus felt a twinge of satisfaction when he saw the whiteness of Hera's face shining paler than the pillars of marble surrounding her.

I am a goddess. You cannot, you will not, do this to me.

I can, and I have. Once you step from this room, your soul will be reborn. So unless you plan to live forever within this room, you have no choice.

Hera's arrogance gave way to fear. Zeus read the same in the faces of all the gods. Except for Apollo. His face held no emotion.

Apollo, my son, how do you fare with the news?

How do I fare? How do you expect me to fare? I do not believe you would do this to us. So we use our powers on humans. They are naught but weaklings. We are gods and deserve to be revered as such.

Disappointed but not surprised, Zeus reprimanded Apollo for his words. You could have been the greatest of all. Maybe even sat upon this throne in my place one day. Apollo, I understand your bitterness. I as well have loved and lost. Zeus glanced sidelong at his wife, only to be stung with the daggers she glared. She resented being reminded of Zeus's lovers.

Zeus cleared his throat and continued. The people loved you. You gave them guidance, protection, and wisdom. But you allowed the unfulfilled feelings between Pandora and yourself to work its way into your soul and change your values and personality. You did not trust in love, and now you abuse and manipulate the people you once loved.

Apollo stood still and silent, like one of the many marble statues lining the throne room. Finally, he whispered, Will there be mercy?

The path you travel is equal to your offence, so you have already set your own level of mercy. For some, there will be none.

Gaia spoke, her voice smooth, silken, and hypnotizing. Enough talk, it is time to pronounce sentence. She surveyed the gods who sat hushed and expectant. Regret shone from eyes, but her voice shot like a bolt of lightning across the room and struck like hail upon the seething energy of each who sat in anticipation.

Hestia, of all the gods, you have been the one to remain pure. Your daily meditation, unwavering love for all, and unselfish actions stand in your favor. You will become physical and proceed in physical form, but your mission will be to guide and help others as they fulfill their fate. Your wisdom and love will be a steadying influence for all the gods when they need you the most.

Hestia's lovely blue eyes filled with tears as she bowed her head and touched her fingertips to her forehead in a gesture of respect. Love overwhelmed Zeus for the regal quality of such a creature.

Hermes. Gaia fixed her gaze upon the messenger of the gods. Your sins are not so great in their intent,. You can be creative and eloquent. You are also cunning and manipulative, but you are not evil. Unfortunately, when you bestowed your own qualities upon Pandora, you also gave her the ability to release the evil upon the world. I realize your intent was mischief and not the downfall of humans and gods, and my judgments depend on intent as much as action. Hope remains within the box. When the time is right, Pandora can release the hope, but she will hesitate based on past experience. You will ensure that she opens the box. Your intentions must be pure, honorable, and for the good of humans, not the destruction. Am I understood?

Hermes's reply was short and brusque. I suppose. Touching fingertips to forehead, he bowed briefly.

Zeus greatly anticipated the next confrontation. Gaia's unwavering gaze fell to Hades, God of the Underworld. In that split second, Mother Earth changed. Darkness filled the room, and sparks snapped brilliantly in the air.

You. Gaia pointed a quivering finger. You are vile, and I am repelled by all the indignities you force upon the people of my earth. You will suffer much, and the harder you try to force your power and will upon others, the more suffering you shall endure. No longer will you find enrichment in the tears and trembling of others. Time will teach you to be humble, caring, and considerate of others, or you will cease to exist. In any form. Yours will be the rockiest road of all.

Hades rose. I do not agree with your judgments. Turning from the raised dais where the thrones sat, Hades appealed to the gods. Join me in protest. These two cannot make us conform to their will. Let us fight them and take the throne of Mount Olympus for ourselves. His dark eyes searched the faces before him for a sign of agreement, but there was none to be seen. Bah, you are all weaklings. I'll not put up with this. I take my leave and return to the underworld. With one last smirk behind him, Hades turned to the archway.

Zeus did nothing, as he knew what awaited his brother. When Hades crossed the threshold from the throne room, sparks crackled in a glorious display. His scream of pain was fearful to hear, but his dark features contorting in agony had more effect upon the gods. While his body bounced about as a puppet on strings, Zeus and Gaia sat still.

Feeling the entreaty of the gods and goddesses nudging his energy, Zeus placed his hand upon Gaia. Enough.

Gaia waved her hand regally and released Hades from his torture. I believe I said no one was to leave.

Hades stumbled, grasping a nearby table for support. His hooded gaze narrowed, and he looked the direction of the thrones, considering his options. Gaia waited. Slowly, Hades regained his composure. With much bravado, he