Chapter 24The nymph was trembling when they materialised, whether from cold or fright Hera could not be sure. ‘What is this place?’ said Deiopea.
‘Aiolia.’
‘He named his kingdom after himself?’
Hera looked around. ‘This is no kingdom, but a habitat.’
Aiolos had been right about one thing. This was a lonely place. The goddess and the nymph stood upon shale, looking up at the gaping maw of a grotto. The spikes of rock clinging to the ceiling were like teeth ready to devour. Mossy stone lay all around, and green mist clung to the skin. A mournful wind keened.
‘Please, my queen. I don’t want to do this,’ said Deiopea. ‘Don’t make me, I beg you.’
‘Cease your foolishness. Trust me. All will be well.’ Hera motioned toward the cave entrance. Steering the nymph by the arm, Hera stepped forwar
