Elysian Dreams (7 page)

* * * *

Daphne stopped in the middle of the field. She saw a man walking toward her. She’d never seen him before, but she knew him. His skin was tanned and literally glowing. His eyes were golden and blazed like fire. His blond hair looked like the purest gold cascading down his back. He wore white robes and as he drew closer she saw that he seemed to float above the grass rather than walk on it.

When he reached her, he tilted her chin up and smiled at her. “Do you know who I am?”

“Helios.”

He nodded. “You remember me?”

“I remember your voice. I remember sensing you. You and Gaia.”

“We’re still watching over you.”

She tried to hold back the tears. “It’s all such a mess.”

“Your behavior isn’t helping.”

She was taken aback. “Why do you say that?”

“You should not have been cruel to Apollo. He experienced more pain than you can know while you were away.”

“I hear he turned into a jerk and a womanizer. He fucked every woman who would let him.”

“Perhaps. He found no solace in any of the pleasures he indulged in. He hurt the only woman who was kind to him.”

“Who?”

“It doesn’t matter. They had an affair, and it ended badly. You shouldn’t drive him to hurt the one who cares for him now.”

“Why are you here? How is this a comfort?”

“That was not my purpose. I see your world from a distance, but it gives me more perspective. Think carefully before you do anything else. More pain will do no good.”

Daphne could not believe how condescending Helios was being, but what else could she expect from a primal deity? They thought they were better than the Olympians. Maybe she wasn’t a goddess, only a nymph, but she wasn’t going to let him tell her what to do.

“Leave me alone. Our world is better without you in it.”

He looked hurt, but she ignored it. She walked away from him. After a few moments, she looked back. He was gone.

She walked faster, wanting to cry as she remembered how the warmth of his love had once been a comfort in the days when her mind was still so confused by her transformation. But he’d proven his loyalties. Apollo was the god of light, of the sun. Obviously Helios favored him. That thought infuriated her. Perhaps Helios had only cared for her to “prepare” her to be Apollo’s submissive little bride. She shook away the thought. Maybe it was silly, maybe not, but the idea sent a sting to her heart.

She hated them all.

Chapter Six

Apollo stared up at the clouds. He was sitting on his back porch, thinking of Harmonia. He was very hung over. He’d finished the bottle of wine she’d brought over, and then moved on to his own supply. He’d drunk enough to make even Dionysus proud. Coffee was helping, but he wished he knew the spell Harmonia had used on him that first night. He never tried magic like that unless he knew what he was doing. He didn’t want the top of his head to blow off, so he didn’t risk it.

A cold breeze blew over his face. Then a shadow fell across him. When he looked up, he saw Hypnos, who glared down at him.

Apollo had the good sense to feel apprehensive. “Hypnos.”

“I knew you wouldn’t change.” He picked Apollo up out of the chair by his collar and punched him square in the jaw.

Apollo reeled and hit the back door. He felt blood trickle down the side of his mouth. “What have I done now?”

“You’ve broken her heart.” He pulled Apollo away from the wall and punched him in the stomach.

Apollo pushed him off. “I knew you were still a complete psychopath. She loves you. How could I break her heart?”

“By showing so little consideration for her. Wenching already before she’s even given you her answer.”

“Wenching? You’re serious? I was having dinner with someone who happens to be female. Daphne told me she loved you. There was little hope for me. Despite that, it was just dinner.”

“I find that hard to believe. Harmonia is Aphrodite’s daughter. Probably exactly like her mother.”

Though he had no love for Aphrodite, the words angered Apollo. He was not going to let even the god of death insult Harmonia. He leapt forward and punched him in the face.

Hypnos flinched and then grabbed Apollo by the neck. “It would be so easy.”

Apollo felt his heart thud. Would he really do it? Would Hypnos really kill him over this? The pressure on his neck was cutting off the blood to his brain. He saw white spots in front of his eyes. Then the pressure stopped and he slumped to the ground.

Ares held Hypnos back by a chain pulled around his neck. Apollo watched Ares lock the chain in place behind his back with a giant black lock.

“Zeus has had me following you. We thought something like this might happen,” Ares said. “You can’t use any of your powers now, and you’ll never break that chain. Hephaestus made it for me.”

Hypnos looked furious, but he said nothing.

“Thanks,” Apollo said. He felt a little embarrassed Ares had been the one to come to his aid.

“Don’t mention it,” Ares said as he looked back at Hypnos. A clap of thunder sounded, despite the sunny skies. Hypnos disappeared. “He won’t bother you again.”

“Where is he?”

“In Zeus’ palace, heavily guarded.”

“What is Zeus going to do?”

“I don’t know, but something must be done. He could have killed you.”

“He was angry because I upset Daphne.”

Ares raised his eyebrows. “What happened?”

“I was having dinner with Harmonia. Nothing special, just us eating in my kitchen. Daphne was coming to tell me nothing would ever happen between us anyway, but when she saw Harmonia she jumped to conclusions and got angry. She must have still been upset when she told Hypnos.”

“Then he definitely overreacted. His temper is like nothing I’ve ever seen. He has me and my father beat.”

“I punched him back when he insulted Harmonia. And I don’t even love her. I only met her a couple of weeks ago.”

“You like her though.”

Apollo nodded. “Glutton for punishment.”

“Perhaps not. You’re free to like anyone now.”

Apollo couldn’t hide the look of surprise on his face.

“What?” Ares asked.

“Nothing. I didn’t expect words of encouragement from you.”

Ares crossed his arms, and then looked around as if he wanted to make sure they were alone. “Look, Alala cares for you. I can’t hate you. Much as I’d like to for nearly stealing my girl.”

“She was yours even when she was with me.”

Ares frowned, and Apollo figured part of Ares’ resentment of him was still due to his own sense of guilt at not seeing how much Alala had always loved him.

“It all worked out,” Apollo added quickly. “That’s what matters.”

Ares extended his hand. “We’re brothers. We should be friends.”

“Half brothers.” Apollo took his hand and was glad to see him smile.

“But friends from now on. Alala wants this, and she’s right to.”

“Forgiveness is a virtue we all seem to be learning. Will Zeus listen if I have something to say about Hypnos?”

“I’m sure he’ll listen at least. You can try.”

Apollo nodded. “I hope so. Loving Daphne made me do some regrettable things too.” He wiped at the blood on his chin.

“Perhaps it’s time you loved someone else.”

Apollo didn’t really want to confide in Ares, but he could bounce the idea off him. “What do you think of Harmonia?”

“She’s a little silly at times, but she’s very sweet. Very nice. But strong-willed. No one should ever cross her. So she’s had her eye on you?”

“She says she has. It’s flattering. She’s amazing.”

Ares laughed. “Sounds like you don’t need me to tell you anything about her.”

He didn’t want to bring it up, considering how Ares could get about his sister, but he took the chance. “She resents my former crush on Eris.”

“My sister’s perfect. Most men have had a crush on her.”

“I’m serious. Between Eris and Daphne, I’m not sure how things might really go. Harmonia flirted very openly the first night, but last night she was subdued. She’s a bit of a mystery.”

“Those kinds of women are the best kind.”

Apollo didn’t try to hide his annoyance.

“Okay, sorry. Look, don’t overthink it. Show her your interest is serious. She knows you can’t lie. See what happens.”

“I’m not good at this.”
I don’t feel like being hurt again. I don’t think I could take it.

“You already have her attention.”

“I know. I hope I can keep it once she actually gets to know me.”

“Just try. Come over and talk to Alala about it.”

Apollo knew he was serious, but he wasn’t sure he wanted to accept. “You wouldn’t mind?”

“No. She’s a good listener, and she knows something about being in a relationship with you. I’ll tell her, and you can come over any time.”

“Thanks.”

“No problem. I have to get back to Zeus. We’ll keep you informed.”

Apollo nodded, and with another clap of thunder Ares vanished. He shook his head. Ares grew to be more like their father every day.

It wasn’t even noon, and already major parts of his life had changed. He and his brother had made a tentative peace, and the god of death had nearly killed him for not trying to steal the woman he loved. He shook his head, which ached even more now. He wasn’t sure he wanted to see what the afternoon would bring.

* * * *

Zeus followed Ares into the throne room. Daphne stood next to Hera. She looked angry, and Hera looked annoyed. Zeus had suspected Hypnos had attacked Apollo because of something Daphne had said, though Hypnos denied Daphne had urged him in anyway. He imagined simply being upset in the first place would have been enough to spur Hypnos to one action or another.

He opened his mind to Hera.
You look vexed, darling.

She took a breath and answered.
Our once meek and helpless little kitten here seems to have very sturdy claws. Be prepared.

He wondered what Daphne could have said. It took more than an angry outburst to annoy Hera.

“Before you say anything, Daphne, let me say we haven’t done anything to Hypnos. You can’t blame Ares for protecting his brother.”

“I can blame you for having him followed. Why did you feel the need to spy on us?”

Zeus gestured to his left, where a couch appeared. He invited Daphne to sit by him. Ares went to his mother, and they both moved to the window at the far right of the room.

Daphne sat down. “I think I deserve an answer.”

“You never knew Hypnos before. You don’t know why we are all so cautious of him. He tried to kill Hades and Ares. He tried to overthrow me. He also tried to kill his own sister. Has he told you that?”

She shifted and folded her hands in her lap. “He told me about trying to take over. He said no one was killed.”

“That is correct, but we were lucky. He was also interfering in the mortal world, giving men with money and power ideas best left alone. Seducing women as well.”

“In dreams. I know. Perhaps he didn’t want a woman he couldn’t kiss.”

Zeus started to say something, and then stopped. He had wondered about that since it had been obvious she and Hypnos had had sex that first day she returned. “That’s a good point. I guess you learned about that the hard way.”

She smiled and shook her head. “He kissed me. Nothing happened. He’s avoiding the subject, assuming I’ll forget, but how could I? When I kissed him he jerked away as if I’d burned him. He said it would put me to sleep, even kill me if the kiss were too deep. But he can kiss me with no ill effects.”

Zeus looked up at Ares and Hera, who were now paying very close attention.

Daphne continued, “We’re meant for each other. The Fates did this.”

Zeus saw Hera take a deep breath and link arms with Ares before she crossed the room.

“Daphne,” Hera began calmly, “it may not be the Fates. You spent so much time living between our two worlds you naturally went to the Valley of Dreams. Dwelling there must have had an effect on you.”

“We are meant for each other.”

“I didn’t deny it. I only wanted to say it might not be the Fates.”

“Why do you all have to meddle so much?” Daphne said.

“We’re trying to help you,” Zeus said. “Hypnos is very different. I will protect everyone in Olympus, no matter what it takes.”

“I want you to set him free and leave us alone. I am done with Apollo and ready to be done with all of you.”

“So you’re angry with Apollo?” Hera asked.

“I love Hypnos. I was so concerned about letting Apollo down easy, but I found him with another woman.”

Hera frowned. “I can’t believe that. What were they doing?”

Daphne hesitated. “They were having dinner, but with Apollo you know what that means.”

“I understand why you feel that way,” Zeus said, “but you shouldn’t jump to conclusions. What did he have to say?”

“He said they were just having dinner.”

“And you do know that—”

“Apollo can’t lie, I know!” Daphne clenched her fists and groaned with frustration. “Why is everyone watching us and judging us? I apologized. That spell was not my fault.”

“Daphne, no one is judging you,” Hera said.

Daphne stood up and walked away. Zeus looked up at Hera, but then he saw Apollo walk into the room. Ares halted him, but Zeus stood and motioned for Ares to let him come forward.

“I only have one thing to say,” Apollo began.

Daphne whipped around. “You arrogant ass! Get out of here!”

Zeus held up his hand. “Give him a moment, please.”

Apollo continued, “I think Hypnos only meant to teach me a lesson. He was angry because Daphne was upset. I don’t think he’s dangerous. He could have killed me, but I doubt he would have gone through with it. He did it because he loves her, and he deserves to be happy without worrying about someone from her past causing her pain.”

Zeus expected Daphne to soften, but she was glaring at Apollo.

“Daphne?” Zeus said. “He’s defending Hypnos, and that means a lot. We will give it its due weight.”

“He’s trying to make himself look good. He’s manipulating us.”

Apollo looked hurt. “I can’t lie, you idiot! What is wrong with you? Someone who can’t lie also can’t manipulate.”

“You all claim to be on my side, but none of you are. I will only be happy with him, and you’re going to ruin that.”

“If you don’t trust them, perhaps you will let me step in,” a woman said.

Zeus recognized Nyx’s voice. He looked around with everyone else, but she waited a moment to materialize. She reclined on the couch. Her very long black hair was arranged in three braids and then twisted together at the nape of her neck. She wore a full-length, long sleeved black dress with a high neckline. Points of light swirled slowly over the dress, like a rapidly changing night sky.

She stood and turned to face Daphne. “Will you trust me?”

Daphne paled. “Who are you?”

“Nyx. I’m his mother, and I’m one of the old gods. Didn’t he tell you?”

She shook her head but seemed to recover a little. “Why are all of you taking such an interest?”

She smiled. “Helios was only trying to help you. Gaia couldn’t care less if you hurt Apollo. Helios was concerned though. He saw how much unhappiness your immature behavior could bring.”

Daphne laughed bitterly. “Helios came to tell me how wrong I was. That’s his opinion.”

Zeus wondered what Nyx might have in mind. If both she and Helios had taken steps to become involved, he might very well need the help of the older deities.

“He was concerned your behavior would cause more strife and pain,” Nyx insisted. “I will not argue with you. Let Zeus deal with my son, or let me help him. I will not wait long for a decision.”

“You think you’re so much better than any of us, don’t you?” Daphne said.

Nyx laughed. “Your father may have been a river god, the son of two Titans, but your mother was mortal, and you are only a nymph. You have almost no powers. I am better than you.” She turned from Daphne, dismissing her. “I’ve been thinking about my son often, Zeus. I mean to take him.”

“I can stop you if he doesn’t want to go,” Zeus said.

Her eyes darkened. She snapped her fingers, and Hypnos appeared next to her. She pulled on the chain that bound him. It shattered into a dozen pieces.

“Mother?” Hypnos looked confused.

She stroked his cheek. “You’ve suffered long enough. Their stupid scheme was not what you needed. I can give you peace.”

“Hypnos?” Daphne said.

He turned to Daphne and went to her, and she clung to him desperately. “You shouldn’t have worried, Daphne.”

She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him.

Everyone was astonished. She had in fact been telling the truth. Zeus considered what it could mean. If the discord between Hypnos and Apollo could be ended, nothing drastic needed to be done. However, he simply couldn’t trust Nyx.

“This can be settled here,” Zeus said as he touched Nyx on the shoulder.

She turned to face him and shook her head. “I owe him. I sent him into this world with such a terrible gift and left him to deal with it on his own. It was too much for any being to bear.”

Daphne and Hypnos whispered together, and Daphne began to cry. She shook her head violently. “No! No! No!”

Hypnos pulled away from her. “Just trust me.” He went to his mother and clasped her hand. “I’ll willingly go with you,” he whispered.

They both faded away.

“No!” Daphne dropped to her knees with her head in her hands.

Zeus cursed under his breath. He couldn’t do anything because Hypnos had gone willingly. Hera looked distressed, and she squeezed his hand before going to Daphne. “Leave us alone please.”

He lingered for a moment as Apollo and Ares went out into the hall. Hera knelt by Daphne, who immediately clung to her and cried harder. He turned away and walked out quickly as he heard her choke out the words “I’m sorry” over and over again. It tugged at his heart. She was only a nymph, and though immortal she simply didn’t have the power or strength they did. She had been through so much no one could blame her for making mistakes out of hurt and frustration.

Apollo looked anxious, and Ares seemed angry. Ares never reacted well to crying women. Something about that particular manifestation of pain set him on the warpath.

“Are we to have no end of his troublemaking? You weren’t going to hurt him! Why would he go with her?” Ares said.

“I don’t know. If you had to choose between receiving help from me or Hera, who would you choose?” he asked his son. He could tell Ares resented the question.

“Probably her, but this is a little different. Nyx is everything that is dark and chaotic and primal. Giving birth to the god of death is an excellent example.”

“Who better to help him with his own darkness?” Apollo asked quietly.

Ares stormed off. “Whatever. I hope I don’t have to say I told you so.”

Apollo sighed. “I’m sorry, father. Harmonia was only trying to comfort me. We’re friends.”

“Harmonia is a beautiful and wonderful woman. She’d be hard for any man to resist.”

“But I did. I wanted her, but a chance with Daphne meant more.”

“And now?”

“I feel safe in saying I don’t want Daphne anymore.”

“I’m glad to hear it. All of this should be over soon.”

“You believe that?”

“Yes.” He suddenly wished he had his son’s ability to only speak the truth. It would have made that
yes
sound so much more comforting.