Chapter 2Theseus and Pirithous scrambled up onto the bank. Though the god was clearly interested only in Theseus, Pirithous did not flee. Instead, to Theseus’s surprise, Pirithous stepped in front of him defensively. But when Pirithous spoke, his voice was humble.
“We know by your glory that you are a god of Olympus and we but your servants. What is it you wish of us, great god?”
His manners seemed to placate the handsome young god, who smiled at Pirithous’s overture.
“What a charming creature you are.” The god’s voice had quieted to a reasonable rumble. “A shame those words are meant to merely mollify me, and are absent of true intent. A well-placed lie, pleasantly spoken.”
Pirithous stood up straight. “On my honor, I—”
“No, no,” the god said, “that was a compliment. But I am not her
