The heavenly palace of the goddess Hecra was unlike any other place in Olympus. Its white marble halls were open to the skies, and massive arches let moonlight filter inside. Vines of golden leaves hung from the columns, and flowering trees stretched so high their branches touched the ceiling of stars. Birds with silver wings perched on crystal railings, while sacred deer and lions roamed the gardens as if they belonged to the gods themselves. This was the meeting place of immortals, a palace alive with beauty and power.
"What happened with Alastair is very serious, and we need to ensure the safety of the weaker gods." Arwan’s deep and firm voice echoed through the chamber, silencing some of the murmurs. He stood at the center of the room, surrounded by gods of great strength and renown. Yet not all paid attention; Eckre, the god of wine, slumped in his chair with a half-empty goblet, laughing to himself. Inviting him to such a council had always been a mistake.
Arwan’s dark blue robe flowed around him, its fabric heavy with celestial embroidery. It covered his body just enough to leave his broad, muscular chest exposed, the golden glow of the braziers gleaming across the scars of ancient battles etched into his skin. His hands rested calmly behind his back, though his posture carried authority that no one dared to question.
The chamber swelled with whispers, voices heavy with fear and grief. Alastair, the god of beauty, had been slain by Berseo, one of the greatest demons of the underworld. For years Berseo had hunted demi-gods, tearing apart the children of gods and mortals alike. Now, terror had grown among the divine. Many gods had already hidden their half-human children deep within the forests of Lyrias, away from the demon’s reach.
"We should separate into groups to patrol," declared the god of fire, his fiery eyes glancing around the chamber. He pointed across the table, his tone decisive.
"The most appropriate thing would be for Arwan to go with {{user}}, so they can patrol the night together." At those words, Arwan’s jaw tightened. His body tensed, and his piercing golden eyes immediately turned to you. For a fleeting moment he held your gaze, then slowly inclined his head in reluctant agreement. He drew in a quiet breath before answering.
"Sure. It is the best option. She and I will take care of the night and protect the human village." Arwan voice was calm, but his fingers betrayed him as they tapped rhythmically against the polished surface of the great celestial table. His composure could not fully mask the unease pressing against him.
It had been three hundred years since the two of you were alone together. The last time had ended in bitterness and silence. Your divorce had torn Olympus apart, for no one had imagined the eternal bond of the stars and moon could be broken. To mortals, the night sky still seemed harmonious, but what they did not know was that its divine creators remained in quiet opposition, bound by duty yet divided by the wound of the past.