The Moon Goddess

Moon Goddess - Chapter 4

Robert stepped out of Nicollo''s house, feeling the cold night embraced him. The flickering lights illuminated the street as he began his journey through the enchanting forrest. The moon hung high in the sky, it's radiant light casting a celestial glow upon the towering trees. Lost in thoughts Robert walked deeper into the woods, the scent of pine and damp earth filling his senses. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves and he marveled at the serenity of the night. As he walked further, the forrest transformed into something mystical and with each step he felt the night air becoming colder. Robert's heart quickened sensing a supernatural presence. And then, as if from a dream, he saw her. Selene, the goddess of moon stood before him. Her beauty was beyond compare. Her flowing silver gown shimmered in the moonlight, accentuating her graceful curves. Her eyes the color of the moonlight pools, held a mesmerizing depths that penetrated his very soul. " Robert" she whispered, her voice a melodious symphony that sent shivers down his spine. He couldn't remove his gaze from Selene, completely bewitched by her mysterious presence. "Selene" , his voice barely a whisper. A mischievous smile played upon her lips as she slowly approached him, her movement as light as a feather, " Come Robert', her voice dripping with seduction. "Join me near the moon's embrace". The atmosphere was filled with anticipation and desire. Unable to resist, Robert extended his hand and Selene took it delicately. Together they ventured deeper into the forrest while the moonlight was casting silver path before them. The air cracked with excitement, a heavy mix of passion and surrender. They reached a small glade covered in the moonlight, a soft grass cushioning their step. Selene turned towards Robert her eyes sparkling with fire. Slowly she reached up, her fingers gently tracing the contours of his face, igniting a feeling with him that he had never experienced before. Their lips met in a passionate kiss, their desires intertwining beneath the moon's watchful gaze. Time seemed to stand still as their bodies moved together, a dance of passion and longing. The forrest itself seemed to echo their heartbeat, the rustling leaves whispering their secrets to the night. Under the luminous moon Selene and Robert became one. The.forrest serenaded their union. Selene looked at Robert full of love and desire. In her voice full of bewitching charm, she whispered to his ears. " Forget the world you once knew, I am here to give you all that you want". Robert 's mind became clouded. In that moment, he was lost in the world, consumed by the seductive power of the moon goddess.

In the dark expanse of the forrest concealed in the shadows, Apate watched the scene unfold. A wicked smile curled her lips as she witnessed the powerful connection between Selene and Robert. Apate's eyes gleam an insidious delight as she realized the extend of her influence. She take pride in knowing that her power extend beyond mortals, reaching even the gods themselves. As Selene leaned to kiss Robert again. She felt somebody was watching them. Her senses suddenly heightened, as if the ripple of unease had washed over her. A sudden shift in the forrest energy alerted her to a foreign presence hiding in the shadows. Her eyes a glow with caution, her connection to the supernatural world granted her the powerful awareness to the realms of both earthly and ethereal. " I have to go now" She slowly disentangled herself from Robert's embrace. She gracefully rose to her feet and was disappointed that she had to leave so soon. Her steps as light as the moonbeam. There was bitter sweet smile upon her lips as she turned away from Robert. He was bewildered by the sudden change of events as he watched Selene turn away while her silhouette blending seamlessly with the shadow of the forrest. He looked at himself naked in the middle of the vast forrest, the same forrest which witnessed his everlasting love for Lucia. His heart sank and a pang of guilt washed over him like a crashing wave. Lucia his beloved partner and soulmate, her image flashed through his mind, a reminder of the commitment and loyalty he had pledged and broke. The realization hit him like a blow to the chest. He grabbed his shirt and wear his pants and slowly left the place that witnessed his infidelity to the woman who has always been there for him.

Robert trudged to the under bush, his heart heavy with guilt. The cool night air whispered to the leaves rustling them gently as if nature sensed the turmoil that consumed him. As he approached the threshold of his home, his steps grew slower, his breath shallow. The moonlight seeped through the window illuminating his room. He sat on his rocking chair consumed by the painful reminder of the wrong choice that he made. He had betrayed Lucia, the woman that he loved with all his heart. The rain poured relentlessly and Robert found himself reminiscing the memories of happy times he had with Lucia. He was transported back to the scene when they danced while raindrops pouring down as they embraced through the night. His infidelity has shattered the idyllic moments he once cherished. His trembling hands clenched into fists as he stood in the quiet darkness, searching for solace that seemed forever out of reach.

Lucia awoke with a sense of unease, a remands of a restless night clinging to her thoughts. As the morning sunlight filtered through the curtain, casting a soft glow in her room. She sat in her bed, glanced around the cozy space, hoping for a quiet day. She looked towards the open window and saw the same familiar figure of her friend Apate. Taking a deep breath to steady herself, Lucia approached the window, her heart pounding in her chest. " Apate" ?, she whispered her voice barely audible. The goddess turned her gaze towards Lucia , her eyes gleaming with an enigmatic mix of mischief and understanding. Apate smiled sarcastically, " Indeed my friend, it is I" her voice carrying a hint of melodious charm. " I came to offer my counsel dear Lucia. " Lucia's curiosity mingled with a tinge of apprehension. Apate's lips gave her usual smile. " I have sensed the whispers that had reached your ears, the gossip that dances upon the tongue of those around you. '. she stood to look directly into Lucia's eyes " Tell me Lucia, what troubles your mind?" Lucia hesitated whether to trust the new found friend before her. Yet the weight of the worries grew too heavy to bear in silence. With a sigh she poured out her heart, sharing the strange observations she had made about the people in her community. How their eyes darted away when she approached, their hushed conversations abruptly silenced. It was as if she had become an unwitting subject of the whispered tales, their stories woven with threads of intrigue and speculation. Apate listened intently, her eyes never leaving Lucia's face. When the young woman finished recounting her tale, the goddess spoke softly, her voice carrying an air of sage wisdom. "Ah dear Lucia, the nature of the gossip is a fickle one" she explained. "It twists and turns, transforming truths into falsehood and sowing doubt where non should exist. Lucia's melancholic voice gave away her feeling of disappointment. " They are talking about my past, most of which I humbly corrected" Apate's replied with a melodic voice, a blend of wisdom and mockery " I understand why some people cling to the mistakes of others. You see Lucia human are complex beings, they often find solace in familiar patterns that reassure them of their own righteousness. When confronted with the past missteps of others, it becomes a defense mechanism. An attempt to preserve their own sense of security and moral superiority. Some powerful people yearn for revenge, they crave satisfaction by watching their enemies fall from grace. They will shatter their reputation into a million irreparable fragments and what better way to do it, but to use their money and power to manipulate other people against their poor hopeless prey.

Lucia acknowledged the truthfulness in Apate's words. 'You are absolutely right, however some people don't give significance on other people's capacity to change" , her voice tinged with hope. Apate started walking while explaining her point. " There are still few who acknowledge the good in other people, they are not blinded by the shadows of the past, those who would not exchange their emphaty and compassion to worldly material things," Apate gave a touch of hope for Lucia. She smiled so sweetly to deceive her gullible friend , without her knowledge the friend she trusted was orchestrating all the mischief and gossip against her. Apate diverted their conversation, she would like to add hints to the story of unfaithfulness she witnessed last night, She sat on the bench and asked Lucia to sit next to her.

How's Robert so far?, did he show up last night?, Lucia's face seem concerned but her trust in her fiance was stronger than the doubt she felt inside her heart." I didn't see him last night, but that's fine, he did not promised to visit me anyway." Apate spoke methapor " Lucia, " she began, her tone gentle yet loaded with hidden meaning. " The night has a way of revealing secrets, shadows dance and whisper echo through the darkness, like the moon casting it's majestic glow upon forbidden desire". Lucia's expression sensed the weight of Apate's word. She wants further clarification, " What do you mean?". Sometimes my dear, truth are better left hidden, like the moon veiled behind the cloud'. Yet she has a way of seeping into our conciousnes and challenging our trust.".Lucia's brows furrowed, a mix of confusion and worry etched across her face. "Apate please tell me what you know, I feel there is something you are not admitting". A faint knowing smile played on Apate's lips as she continued to dance on the truth. " My dear friend, observe the subtle changed on the moon's radiance. It reveals secret, reflections of desire and actions that transpire beneath it's watchful gaze". The truth like the moon, waits for the right moment to reveal itself". Apate looked at the sky, knowing she had done enough to cause doubt into Lucia's mind, the poor soul who was a victim of secrecy and deceit.

In the quiet sanctuary of her celestial room, Selene reclined upon a plush of her majestic couch. Her thoughts wandered back to the night she had spent with Robert. A radiant smile graced her lips as she reminisced about their shared moments, the tender caress and whispered words were deep feelings that resonates within her immortal essence. The moonlight danced upon her porcelain skin, illuminating the joy that radiated from her eyes, as she pondered the possibilities of a future with him. However, amidst the euphoria, a flicker of uncertainty tugged at Selene's heart. She yearned to be the sole woman in Robert's life. Determination filled her gaze as she contemplated the steps that she would take to remove Lucia, her rival to Roberts heart. In the distance, a gentle breeze whispered through the trees, carrying within a soft flower like scent of roses and daisies. Aphrodite the radiant goddess of love emerged from the shadows. Her eyes sparkled with wisdom as she approached Selene. "Sister Selene" Aphrodite called, her voice dripping with affection and concern. "Your heart seem disturbed and the moonlight reveals your yearning". 'Tell me, what bothers you on the moonlit eve?". " Oh Aphrodite, I'm lost in the realm of love. I have been carrying a heavy burden in my heart. I have fallen deeply in love with a mortal man, but he is already in love with someone else". Aphrodite felt the pain in Selene's words, she held her hand with emphaty and felt pity on the goddess she considered as one of her closest friend. "Selene I can feel your pain, unrequited love is one of the most bitter emotions. She looked at the goddess and asked to hear some more" Tell me, who is this gentleman?". "His name is Robert and he possess a rare and captivating spirit. Every night I watched him from the heavens and he looks at the moon, unaware of my presence. The way he speaks, the way he laughs , it fills my heart with indescribable longing ". Aphrodite spoke about love as the supreme goddess who knows it all. "Selene, love can be complicated, sometimes it demands sacrifice and selflessness. It has a way of defying rationality, doesn't it?". But Selene my dear friend, you must remember that you are a goddess and your heart is capable of enduring great sorrow as well as great joy". You are the moon goddess, your light shines on, even on the darkest night. Rejection is a possibility but it is not the end of the story. You love truly if you are able to put the needs and happiness of others before your own. If you have to sacrifice to make others happy that is the ultimate expression of love". Selene's breath caught in her chest, She believed that her love for Robert was eternal. Her heart ached torn between the undeniable truth and her own desires. She cast her eyes downard, tears glistened into the moonlight. " I understand what you say my friend". Selene whispered, her voice filled with sorrow, " but understanding is not the same as acceptance. My love for Robert burned fiercely with in me and to relinquish it feels like surrendering a part of my own essence". Aphrodite's embrace envelope Selene, offering solace in the face of sorrow. " love, Selene is both a blessing and a curse. It grant us the capacity to experience joy but also subjects us to the depths of despair". Remember even though Robert' may not be yours, your love will always illuminate his path, guiding him towards the love he is destined to find." Selene realized the value of Aphrodite's advice but she remained steadfast in her decision". She understood the consequences of her unrequited love yet she chose to embrace the beauty of her feelings, even in the face of longing and unfulfilled desire.

Meanwhile in the depths of the underworld, Hecate and Apate sat upon a worn obsidian throne. Their piercing eyes fixed upon the flickering flames of a magic cauldron. As the mists within the orb unite into vivid images. Apate began her tale, her voice tinged with a playful tone. "Oh Hecate my dear, the goddess of love simply cannot resist meddling with the affair of other goddess. Hecate's eyebrows raised with intrigue. What do you mean?, I'm curious to hear what our dear Aphrodite has been up to this time. Apate leaned back with a smirk in her lips. She began to weave her tale, " the audacity of the goddess of love, she wants Selene to sacrifice in the name of love", why would she ask her to lower down her stature for the sake of a mere mortal. It is an insult to a powerful goddess like Selene. This is one of the reason I hated Aphrodite so much. Hecate smiled knowingly her voice carrying a gentle wisdom. " Your abilities are formidable but remember you are not the embodiment of love. Aphrodite's power lies not in controlling others but igniting the flames of passion and fostering genuine connection. She does not force love nor manipulate it. Apate did not accepted Hecate's argument. " My dear your good side is beating your bad side, pertaining to Hecate's three personalities. The witch in you should rule over your other faces ". Apate cannot contain her laughter while Hecate felt annoyed with such remarks. She stood and went close to the big bubbling cauldron, it has intricate symbol and flickering magical flames, has the power to reveal hidden truths and secrets. As the liquid settled, images began to form, like spectres rising from the depths. The scene materialized revealing a picturesque setting. The air was scented with the sweet fragrance of wildflowers. In the center of the meadow Hecate's cauldron granted Apate a glimpse of Lucia and Robert, the star crossed lovers entwined with a dance of affection and joy. Their eyes sparkled with adoration and their laughter filled the air, a melody of pure happiness. Apate's eyes widened as she witnessed the depth of their connection. "You see Apate, Aphrodite would not allow a love that is destined to transcend all boundaries to be ruined by mortals and immortal, not even by her friend, Selene.Apate was not convinced, she started walking away while leaving Hecate with her word of wisdom ." My dear friend, sometimes we need to look beyond what others may think for as long as we are happy".Hecate was dismayed by the self-centeredness of such pronouncement and wished Selene will remember who she really is.

Lucia arrived at Robert's house, her footsteps echoing on the floor. The sun shone brightly casting warm rays that illuminated the quaint surroundings of the house. As she rang the doorbell, anticipation fluttered in her chest, eager to see Robert after several days of separation. The door swung open, revealing a beaming Robert, his eyes lighting up as he caught sight of Lucia. He embraced her tightly, the warmth of his body radiating through her. It's so good to see you my love ". his voice filled with joy. They entered the house and an air of comfort and familiarity enveloped them. As they settled on the couch, a flicker of unease crossed Robert's face. His eyes shifted betraying the thoughts that plagued his mind. Memories of the previous nights seeped into his consciousness tormenting him with images of his affair with Selene. He tried to focus on the present moment with Lucia but the weight of emotions was difficult to bear. Lucia noticed the change in Robert's appearance, sensing the shift on his energy. Concern etched across her features as she reached out gently, placing her hands into his arms. "Robert is there something bothering you?" she asked softly, her voice filled with compassion.Robert sighed, his gaze meeting Lucia. The weight of his betrayal bore down on Robert's conscience, a heavy burden that threatened to consume him. He took Lucia's hand but he could feel the weight of his secret threatening to spill from his lips. He gazed back at her eyes searching the strength to confess. But everytime he looked at Lucia, all he could see is Selene. It was a moment of weakness, a betrayal he never thought he could commit. Lucia studied Robert''s face, noticing the shadow that lingered in his eyes. Robert hesitated, torn between protecting Lucia from the truth and the guilt that ate him from within. Robert's lips brushed against Lucia's forehead, leaving behind a tender kiss. He expressed his love promising him a lifetime of devotion. He whispered sweet words of adoration into her ear. His voice carried a tone of sincerity assuring her that she is the only one. With each expression of affection, Robert's internal turmoil grew. He held her tightly, afraid to let her go, as if she is the anchor that could keep him grounded amidst the storm of his own deceit. He wants to confess to her and beg for forgiveness but the fear of loosing her held him captive. Lucia whispered softly "Robert", I can see that something is bothering you and though you may not be ready to share it, please know that I am here for you " Robert gaze met Lucia's eyes, filled with sadness and uncertainty. He opened his mouth but unable to find the right words. Lucia smiled, " You don't have to say a word if you are not ready, she said with her soothing voice. " Sometimes the weight we carry inside can feel overwhelming, but remember that you don't have to bear it alone. I'm here to listen and support you". A sense of peace washed over Robert as Lucia's words enveloped him. He held her hand in silence, he didn't say a word, his action. speaks louder than any apology. He knew the importance of keeping Lucia's trust and cherishing their love and commitment.

In the evening Lucia stayed home and calmed herself down from the relentless unusual events that started draining her energy. She pick up a book from the shelf and began reading it, she sat alone in the living room. It was bathed on soft glow of a warm fireplace, casting flickering shadows across the walls. A sudden gentle knock at the door echoed through the house, interrupting Lucia's solitude. Surprised she put her book aside and hurried to answer the door, curious about the unexpected visitor. She opened the door and standing before her was a breathtakingly beautiful woman, her radiant presence outshining the moon itself. She recognized her instantly, the same lady who introduced herself as Robert:s relative. "Come in", Lucia asked Selene to come inside, she lead her to the living room, were they both sat down while fire cast.dancing shadows across their faces. Selene's infatuation with Robert' became an obsession but Lucia remained blissfully unaware of the goddess hidden intention. Selene, disguised as Robert's distant relative, carefully crafted her appearance to mirror the family's delicate feature. "Lucia, isn't it?", Robert has spoken so highly about you, I couldn't resist the opportunity to meet the woman who has captured his heart". Lucia's curiosity piqued as she returned Selene's smile with a polite nod. Selene started asking questions, she delicately clasped her hands together and said " I hope you don't mind me asking, but I'm genuinely curious. " What is it about you that made Robert so deeply in love, whenever we are talking, the topic is all about you. Lucia's cheek flushed with a mixture of flattery and humility. She hesitated for a moment, then responded, her voice tinged with sincerity. " I believe it's because we shared same values , our ability to understand one another and support each other. Robert and I have a deep connection that goes beyond words. We inspire each other to be the best version of ourselves". Selene's eyes narrowed slightly, her obsession with Robert had fueled deep rooted jealousy and she found an opportunity to make Lucia feel small. " What values are those Lucia?. She was not expecting the question thrown in by the goddess of moon. " You see Lucia, it was a known fact, everyone on the neighborhood is talking about you" Lucia's face flushed with combination of shame and guilt. " I know, I made poor choices in the past she replied But I've also learned from them, I won't let my past mistakes define me. " she humbly put her face down while tears started to flow from her cheeks. Selene hold Lucia's shoulder to calm her down ,she feel sorry for Lucia but her intention to make her quit and leave Robert was her primary interest. Lucia reclaimed her power, refusing to be diminished by Selene's accusation. " My past is a reminder of my resilience, my ability to rise above my mistakes and become a better person. Selene was not expecting that her attempt to belittle her only solidifies Lucia's determination to prove her worth." Robert, he has been an inspiration to me, her voice trembled slightly as she spoke his name". Selene was curious as to how she managed to go through all the hardship in her life.

" What makes you strong?."Selene's eyes widened slightly, intrigued by Lucia's revelation. " My faith, I've learned through all those times that faith in God guides us to light in the darkest moment. That life is about finding peace, strength and purpose to something greater than ourselves. It's realizing that even in the darkest moments were never truly alone". Silence enveloped the room as Selene absorbed Lucia's words. As she watched Lucia's expression she felt a pang of guilt on her action. Without uttering a single word. Selene turned on her heels and made her way towards the front door. As she stepped outside the cool night, she found herself surrounded by wildflowers, their delicate petals dancing in the gentle breeze. Yet even their beauty failed to sooth the troubled soul. She gazed up in the moon, her own celestial domain, and her heart ached in remorse.

Lucia sat alone in her dimly lit living room, her heart heavy with an overwhelming sense of sadness. The conversation she had with Selene had her deeply wounded and depressed. She couldn't comprehend why Selene had asked her such offensive questions about her past, dredging up painful memories that Lucia had tried long to burry. As she reclined on the worn out couch, Lucia's mind replayed the conversation like a broken record. Selene's voice echoed on her ears, each word laced with judgement and disdain.The moon goddess had probed into the darkest corners of Lucia's history, questioning her choices, her mistakes, her regrets. It was as if Selene had deliberately sought to undermine her self worth, leaving Lucia feeling exposed and vulnerable. Lost in her melancholy, Lucia glanced at the window, seeking solace in the moonlit night. But instead of finding comfort in the celestial glow , she felt unease as if the moon betrayed her as light casting eerie shadows on her fragile emotion. To add distress, whispers began to circulate within the neighborhood. The walls seemed to have ears and Lucia couldn't escape the words that followed her like a haunting melody. The neighbors who had once been friendly and kind, were now discussing her past with hushed voices and judgemental tones. Lucia couldn't understand how her private struggles had become a public folder. The invasion of her personal story, coupled with Selene's callous questioning sent her spiraling deeper into a pit of desolation. She felt isolated as if the world around her turn against her, each conversation a reminder of her perceived failure. The weight of humiliation and judgement has taken its toll on her fragile heart, leaving her feeling vulnerable and alone. As Lucia sobs echoed to the stillness of the night, a soft wind rustled the leaves of the nearby tree, Apate heard Lucia's cry and anguish and decided to pay a visit. With a mischievous smile playing in her lips, she observed the brokenness across Lucia's tear stained face. "Lucia, my dear, why are you so sad? It seems the weight of the world rests upon your shoulders." Lucia lifted her head, her watery eyes meeting Apate's penetrating gaze. I.. I can't take it anymore" , Lucia stammered, her voice was quivering. Apate's smile widened, a gleam.of excitement flickering in her eyes. Lucia explained that Robert's relative came to visit her, she was critical and seems to revel in highlighting her past mistakes and shortcoming. Apate suggest that it maybe time to distance herself from Robert. Apate stood up from were she was seated went near the vase and touch the flowers while she explained her point. " Lucia, love is a beautiful thing, but it requires a solid foundation within ourselves, Before you can be deserving of someone else's love, you must first learn to love and value yourself. Lucia's eyes glistened with tears, "But how can I do that, I feel so lost'. Apate's voice grew firmer, full of conviction, "Lucia you must distance yourself from Robert, at least for a while. " Focus on nurturing you own growth. Lucia looked at Apate searching for answers. "But won't distancing myself from Robert push him away?". Apate squeezed Lucia's hands gently. If Robert really loves you he will look for you, but for now you have to embrace your strength. Haven't you thought that someone may have orchestrated exposing your dark past for a reason. It's clear that someone intends on tarnishing. your reputation and it's possible that this person may have personal motives. There may be a possibility that the person spreading all this rumors may have hidden desire to the thing or person you own. Lucia's heart sank at the thought of leaving Robert and even more with the thought that somebody may have done all this mishap on purpose. "But I am not rich the only thing I own and cherish is my love for Robert. ". Apate started laughing out at the taught that Lucia easily catch up with the clues that she gave in. Lucia's voice was shaking " I love Robert with all my heart, he is the only one I have ". Apate nodded with sympathy "I know how you feel, Love is a powerful force, sometimes sacrifices must be made for a greater good. Leaving Robert temporarily doesn't mean the end of your love story, In fact it may give both of you the chance to reclaim your reputation and protect the man you love. " Lucia take a deep breath, her mind racing with conflicting emotions. She realized that Apate's advice, though difficult to accept, hold a glimmer of hope. "Yes, your right, Robert will understand my decision, if he truly loves me he will wait, a love that is true will last forever. "Apate reached out gently, placing her hand over Lucia's, offering comfort and support. She was satisfied that her deceiving counsel has brought about a desired outcome. The power of her manipulation has set a motion series of events that would forever alter the course of events. The unwitting pawns had fallen into her careful laid trap and the stage is now set for a twisted dance of desire, betrayal and shattered hearts-all orchestrated by the satisfied goddess of deceit. 'By the way Lucia, who was Robert's relative who came to visit you? Apate smiled secretly. "Selene".