“Because you seem to possess a high degree of intelligence, I request your presence for a matter of great importance.”
“And why would this matter of great importance of yours matter to me?”
He arched an eyebrow and approached, preparing to resume. “I am willing to offer you something in exchange.”
“What conceivable benefit could you offer to your favoriteskiá?”
“You have my word that you will never be imprisoned again.” Zeus began explaining, averting his eyes to Eros, and then back to Shadow. “This is what I am able to provide. My proposal should not be construed as a benevolent gesture, but rather as an assertion of my authority, which encompasses the power to both bestow and withdraw your freedom”.
A pact made with the God of all gods.
Indeed, this was the missing piece of the puzzle I had needed since I regained my freedom.
The clash of the deities was about to begin.
Delightful.
But before he wished to speak, he heard the God of Love’s voice calling for him in his mind, concealing their conversation from Zeus.
What circumstances have led to your freedom?Eros inquired.
This is a matter that will be revealed to you at a later time, aféntis?*. However, we shall now ascertain the purpose for which Zeus requires my assistance.
Do not put your trust in him, nor adhere to his rules, but endeavor to persuade him that you are doing so.
I know how to appeal to his vanity. PleaserememberI embody your darker nature.
“Pray tell, what is this important matter for which you seek my aid?” Shadow finally said.
Zeus cocked a brow at him, then averted his gaze toward Eros whose jaw clenched under tension. “There is a specific mortal among this year’s errors who has resisted my power of compulsion.”
He spoke of the fascinating mortal who had freed him. Now that Shadow had discovered Zeus’s compulsion had no effect on her, his fascination with her deepened. What secret did she hold that left even the god of all gods puzzled and unable to figure it out?
“I am listening,” Shadow urged the god to speak.
“You must ensure she develops feelings for Eros, facilitating her to reach the pinnacle of human vulnerability,” he began, the right corner of his lips twitching into a mischievous smirk. “Love is the very thing that exposes everyone’s vulnerability, isn’t that so, Eros?”
“What is the reason for your significant interest in her?” Eros intervened as he scrutinized him.
Zeus narrowed his eyes, a glint shimmering in the white shade of his irises. “I have my reasons. Moreover, herintelligence presents a potential threat that we wish to avoid, thus we must mitigate the risk she poses.”
The God of Love broke into a laughter that made Zeus bend toward the table, putting his elbows onto its edge. “You, who preside over all gods, are concerned by the intelligence of amortal? I must be experiencing an alternate reality.”
“Your king is not to be questioned, Eros,” he spat, abruptly standing from the chair and piercingly surveying Shadow and Eros.
“I do not question you, Zeus. However, it appears rather peculiar to me that you harbor apprehension towards an individual susceptible to demise during the initial trial.”
“I have heard enough. I will not waste my time explaining matters you clearly lack the capacity to comprehend,” he stated with hostility, turning from the table, hands clasped behind him. “Skiá, you are required to use one of Eros’ love arrows on the mortal. End of discussion, or I shall imprison you again.”
What are your thoughts on this, aféntis?Shadow reached for Eros once more.
You are forbidden from using the arrow against her. Instead, employ a threat to instill fear, thereby compelling her to feign affection for me.
Very clever.
We will maintain vigilant observation of Zeus. Considering your present freedom of movement and the potential for anonymity, you are hereby assigned this duty.
Yes, aféntis. I am pleased to be back to serve our needs.
