The Moon Goddess

Moon Goddess - Chapter 3

Apate started with deceptive grace" I am a friend willing to listen to your deepest desires, I have watched over you, your compassion and kindness from afar ". Lucia's eyes widened, a mixed of surprise and vulnerability flickering within them. I have witnessed your act of benevolence, your unwaivering support for others. But tell me, have you truly been heard? Lucia's expression was softened, she wondered why the lady in black knew her. Apate moved a bit from the wooden bench to give way for a space so Lucia can sit. She gestured the side of the bench and asked Lucia to come near her. " What about you discussing matters of the heart with me. I know for the longest time, you never had someone to listen without judgement or interruption "I've heard you've been having a romantic time with your boyfriend. Lucia looked up wondering why the new acquaintance knew so much about her. Apate continued to sway her to share her thoughts.. " Love can be such a beautiful thing can't it?" she smiled to convince Lucia that she is happy for her. Lucia replied ."It truly is, Robert is a wonderful man, he's always been caring and loving, we've shared such happy experiences together". her excitement cannot be matched as she described the love of her life. Lucia began to share her innermost thoughts, her dreams even her darkest secrets. Apate listened with rapt attention, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction as the tale of Lucia's life wove a delicate web around her heart. She nodded offering sympathy and consolation at that precise moments to deepen Lucia's trust. All the time her true motives remained hidden behind the guise of friendship. Apate started to ask question about how strong Lucia's trust to Robert is.At first Lucia was confident" We've weathered countless trials together, our loves a beacon in a world full of chaos.' But just last night, I noticed a change in him. "Lucia's voice started to.sound upset while Apate's villainous grin cannot be hidden. She stood up and walked back and forth as if she has an answer to Lucia's claim. "Sometimes the one we hold closest to our hearts hide secret, Maybe there is something he is not telling you". Lucia was confused "What secret?." Apate sat back and leaned to speak face to face with her prey." My dear, wouldn't you like to find out ?.If you want to save your relationship, you must uncover the truth, sometimes we need to take risks to protect what matter most. Trust your instincts, my dear. Follow the path that leads to the answers you seek". "Did he not mentioned anyone's name to you or while he was a sleep?." Lucia looked at Apate muddled why her statements are so precise, as if she was there last night. Lucia's faith in Robert starts waning like the moon's fading light. Apate smiled triumphantly, celebrating the chaos that she sown in Lucia's heart. " Remember the truth has a way of revealing itself. If you need guidance I'll always be here for you". I got to go now, don't you worry tomorrow I will be in the same exact place to meet you.. friend. She gave her sweetest smile while waiving at Lucia as she walked far enough until she can no longer be seen Lucia was left analyzing the conversation she had with her villain friend little did she know that the battle for her love and trust for Robert had only just began and the path she would tread would test her strength and loyalty to the very core

In the mystical realm where the gods and goddess convened, the air was thick with intrigue and power. Apate stood next to Selene, her piercing eyes held secrets untold about Lucia. They chose a secluded spot on the celestial balcony to discuss their wicked plan. "What secrets have you discovered about my rival?" Selene asked Apate directly like a spy she sent on a mission. Apate slowly gazed at Selene and smiled. "Lucia's life has been filled with hardships from childhood, She endured a difficult upbringing plagued by poverty and adversity. Her family had a little means to provide for themselves and Lucia was forced to take matter into her own hands. " Selene felt pity however would not want to admit it, her obsession to Robert will not allow her good side to give in. " How did she overcome such challenges?. " Lucia's determination and love for her family propelled her forward. Besides your rival has high level of spirituality. " She took upon herself the responsibility of ensuring their well being, even if it meant resorting to unconventional means". The goddess of moon wants further elaboration. " What kind of acts are we talking about here ? " My dear Selene, mortals sheer desperation can resort to activities that would be considered morally questionable. She may have engaged into petty theft or manipulation to secure her family's sustenance. While this actions are not commendable, they were driven by fierce love and devotion."Selene was listening attentively but was intrigued on how Lucia managed to bounce back from such dreadful past. " I see, Lucia's circumstances led her down to a treacherous path. Did she find any other ways to support her family?". Apate started walking back and forth as what she often does when she would like to make her point. " Despite of her involvement in this wrong doings Lucia has also strived to have a better life through hard work. She is known to be diligent and dedicated channelling her energy into legitimate endeavours whenever possible. She learned and understood the importance of providing for her family without compromising her integrity. " Apate looked vicious then started laying down her plans. " We will focus on her dark side, it doesn't matter whether she corrected herself, she cannot move on just like that. Our goal is to break her down by manipulating all those who knew her into going against her, we will expose her past to other people and they will start hating her. When she is not accepted by society, she will start doubting her worth, not trusting everyone around her including Robert. While we are blinding Robert on material offers they both would end up realizing they are not meant for one another." Forever will no longer be a word fated for this two unprivileged souls. We will teach them not to mess with powerful beings like us. " Apate's laughter was deafening she could not contain her happiness while foreshadowing the misfortune Lucia has to undergone from their mighty hands. " Poor souls" her laughter ignited shaking on the celestial world. Selene agreed on the evil plan " I will continue sowing seeds of doubt into Robert's mind while he is sleeping.. Dreams are gateway to one's deepest fears and desires. I will plant doubts that will haunt him during his waking hours. But we have to be careful, remember manipulation can be a delicate art. One wrong move and our entire plan might crumble. We must tread carefully, ensuring that no actions can be traced back to us." Of course of course, I wouldn't be a goddess of deceit if I am not good at this. "May your love be rewarded and may the darkness of deceit serve your desires. But be warned my dear, for love born by trickery often breeds sorrow and regret. Ensure that your heart is prepared for the consequences that lies ahead". Apate's parting words marks heavily into Selene's heart.

In the dark chamber, hidden deep the labyrinthine recesses of Mount Olympus, Apate is plotting the revenge against the goddess of love, Aphrodite. She suffered greatly at the hands of the gods, sealed within the Pandoras box by the command of Zeus himself. Now she sought retribution and Aphrodite stood as the perfect target to her maleficent intention. A cruel smile twisted her lips as she envisioned Aphrodite, the epitome of beauty and love trapped within the confines of her creation. The goddess of deceit reveled in the notion causing the goddess of love immeasurable anguish, just as she endured in the depths of their confinement. Aphrodite was the daughter of Zeus, whom he loved dearly. Imprisoning and sealing her into the Doom box will grant her revenge. Love vanishing in the realm of humanity and the mortals heart will be an absolute reward. She knew that the desire of her heart is crucial and dangerous therefore she needs a powerful goddess like Selene to help her out with the plan. The two agreed with such proposition.With her slender fingers, Apate traced the intricate carvings on the Doom box, feeling the ancient power coursing through its enchanted wood. She whispered ancient incantations, invoking the forces of darkness to lend potency to her wicked scheme. The air crackled with malevolence as if the very essence of deception responded to her call. Through the chambers window, a silver of moonlight illuminated Apate's face, accentuating her evil grin. Her eyes glinted with a venomous intensity, for she knew that time had come to set her plan to motion. Aphrodite's fall will be her triumph. The stage was set and Apate was poised to unleash her vengeance upon the goddess of love ensuring that she would experience the suffering she had once endured.

In the morning Lucia woke up in the tranquil setting of her humble abode. She looked outside the beautiful garden bathe in soft glow of the bright wonderful sun. Lucia found solace amidst the vibrant blooms and whispering leaves. Outside the lovely garden seated on the wooden bench was the mischievous goddess Apate, guised as a trusted friend to entangled her in the web of trickery. Her eyes glimmering with a hidden agenda. " Dear friend how does you heart fared since we last spoke?." Share with me your joys and sorrow, for friendship is the balm the soothes our soul". Lucia's heart heavily welcomed the company unaware of the true nature of the companion. She looked into the eyes of the suppose confidante, felt a sense of trust emanating from her. She sighed gently, a wistful smile gracing her lips. " Robert did not drop by my house last night, this is the very first time he promised but didn't fulfill. " Apate can feel agony on Lucia's voice and her eyes gleamed with anticipation as Lucia began to reveal the intricacies of her relationship. Lucia spoke of stolen kisses beneath the moonlit sky, the laughter shared during countless adventure and the whispered promises they shared. Her voice danced with the melody of love and longing carrying her emotions to the very edge of vulnerability. Lucia continued this time her voice tinged with sorrow. " I was waiting for him the whole evening, praying pleading that he will always do as he promised, I felt his affection had waned and I find myself in the sea of uncertainty''. Apate's face contorted into a mask of mock sympathy, concealing her true delight. "Oh dear, Lucia Im so sorry to hear your heart was broken. To love so deeply and met with uncertainty is a torment indeed. Now tell me, have you not done the same to him" I mean, like not showing up when you promised you will." Lucia sounded unsure but she explained why she didn't show up. " The time we planned to meet up on the garden near his house two nights ago, a lady came into my house and said Robert cannot see me. A beautiful lady who looked like a goddess, she wore a crescent moon crown with long veil. She mentioned she was Robert's relative and that my fiance has an important thing to do that night. Apate couldn't keep her emotions to herself, her laughter was so loud that it causes the birds on the tree to fly. Lucia was looking at her disgusted. " What was so funny about that?". Apate did not explained the sarcasm on her reaction instead she continued persuading Lucia about the significance of trust. " But perhaps my friend there maybe reasons yet unknown to us, trust is the strength of your bond and all shall be revealed in time". Lucia nodded, her eyes searching Apate's face for comfort and guidance. She found solace in the words of her supposed friend, unaware that every utterance was but a web of deceit spun by the goddess herself. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadow across the garden. Lucia continued to share her elation and heartache, unaware of the treacherous game being played. Apate delighted in the madness she had sown. Little did she know that the friend she trusted is in fact the goddess of manipulation. The garden once a sanctuary of peace and beauty has become a stage of Apate's intricate performance, leaving Lucia trapped in the web of deception from which she may struggle to escape.

"Lucia", a masculine voice calling her from outside. Robert's heart raced as he stood outside Lucia's door. He hasn't seen her last night and the mere taught of the reunion sent waves of excitement through him. But as he waited, a conflicting presence lingered in his mind , Selene the goddess of moon who was haunting his dreams for few consecutive days now. He closed his eyes trying to shake off the persisting taught of Selene and focus on the present situation. He could smell Lucia's delicate perfume, feel the softness of her touch and hear the melodic sound of her laughter. Slowly the doors opened and infront of him was the unmatched beauty of her beloved. She was the embodiment of joy and love of his life. He embraced her tightly, the one who made him feel alive. He kissed her gently full of love and adoration while shaking of the taught of Selene who seemed to be calling her from nowhere. "Are you alright? " Lucia asked concerned about her beloved. She asked him to sit down and offered to get him a drink. "Please don't go" Robert's begging not to be left alone and locked Lucia in a passionate embrace. As they held each other their love eclipse everything else. " I was thinking of dropping by your house in case you will not visit me today, I was so worried that something may have happened to you because last night you did not show up". Robert held her hands and looked straight to her eyes, his voice tinged with a hint of hesitance. "I have something important to share with you, something that has been haunting my dreams". Lucia's eyes widened in curiosity. "Tell me Robert, what is bothering you". Robert took a deep breath, " In my dreams I find myself standing in a vast celestial realm and there before me stand the goddess of moon, Selene. Lucia's breath caught in her throat, as the weight of his words settle upon her. She leaned closer, her heart pounding with anticipation. Robert's voice quivered slightly as he continued. " Selene spoke to me of love, she said she had been watching me from above and that our souls were entwined. Her voice are like symphony, resonating deep into my soul".Lucia was bothered on how Robert describe his feelings, her eyes shimmered with a blend of emotion, fear and jealousy. She reached out and gently clasped Robert's hand. She whispered " What did you say to her?". A simple yet honest smile graced Robert's lips. "I told her that while her offers are enchanting, my heart belong here on earth, with you". Lucia's eyes glistened with tears, a mixture of relief and joy flooding her heart .Lucia was so overwhelmed by the presence of Robert that she forgotten about her wicked friend, Apate. Little did she know that her so called friend is now starting to orchestrate a tragedy were she will be the main character.

In the majestic place, within the velvety cloak of the night, Selene and Apate were silently observing with their silver eyes gleaming. Apate found the scene so heart warming and interesting. "Ah, the lovers, look at them my dear, both consumed by passion and desire. Apate smirking mischievously, Love so fragile, so easily swayed by subtle touch, by flowery words and empty promises. She noticed Selene so quiet, her eyes fixed intently upon the lovers. Her heart ached with consuming obsession, yearning for a connection with Robert that transcends the boundaries of her divine existence. Apate looked at Selene with such disgust, a beautiful goddess of light and moon, desiring to be in the place of a common mortal..She did not verbalize her indignation while she silently observed Selene's enchantment with her cunning smile. Her eyes gleaming in mischief as she watched the moon goddess emotion unfold like a tapestry of hidden desire. " What are you thinking?",Apate's question was just to validate her thoughts. "How I wished to be in Lucia's place" Apate's laughter danced through the night. " I wondered what is it with Robert that you truly admire, why would a goddess as esteemed like you lower herself for an anthropoid like him?" Selene recalls the countless nights, she had watched Robert gaze the moon." He embodies a spirit the resonates me, like Endymion when I first saw him. " Robert may be a common mortal, but he possess extraordinary heart.He loved fiercely, dreams boldly and his presence in my immortal existence reminds me of the beauty of life." Selene asked Apate to go elsewhere, where they can start their trickery against Lucia, " I had gone weary of witnessing the blissful love shared by Robert and Lucia, their love is a radiant light that must be extinguished" Apate observed how Selene started to turn to an evil goddess.The moon goddess who was once a beacon of purity and tranquility succumbed to a poisonous seed of jealousy. Her luminous silver gown billowing around her like a celestial mist. The air grew heavy with tension for the goddess transformation was imminent. Selene once radiant and countenance was marred by unsettling mixture of anguish and malevolence. Her luminous eyes filled with gentle warmth now burned with sinister gleam. She had witnessed the birth of an evil goddess, a twisted reflection of jealousy that has consumed Selene. Apate senses an impending danger, her appearance was deceivingly gentle, with voice carrying authority she began to calm down the raging storm within Selene's heart. " Selene daughter of Hyperion, I beseech you to listen, your power is unmatched even among the gods. But jealousy has clouded your divine judgement, leading you astray from your purpose." Remember my dear, deception like the moon's phase requires patience. Chaos reigns in the midst of the battle and in those moments were we harness the power of tranquility is the time we win. " Apate continued her explication. " Calmness is a veil behind which our deceitful strategies thrive. It allows us to assess the situation and strive the most opportune moment, so hush my dear you can do better than that. " Let's leave" Selene's anger began to wane as she regarded Apate, her eyes searching for a solution. The two goddess soared across the night sky leaving behind the mortals who marvelled at the moon's transformative brilliance. With a soothing voice Apate began to weave a tale of love and devotion, a narrative that transcends the boundaries of time and space. She spoke of countless mortals who had adored Selene all throughout the ages, their heart fell with admiration and reverence for her celestial beauty. Apate's word painted a vivid tapestry of adoration and admiration, erasing the bitter jealousy from Selene's heart. Selene's anger dissolved like mist, replaced by a renewed sense of purpose and self assurance. She realized that her beauty was not diminished by the radiance of others. but enhanced by love and admiration. "Thank you Apate, " The villainess smile was hideous, on her heart all of this remarkable words are pure mockery. "You are most welcome my dear". The air was filled with her iconic wicked laugh.

In the depths of the underworld, the mystical place where the witch goddess Hecate was practicing.her magic and incantation. Shadows danced along the walls, whispering secrets of those who wants to listen. On that particular night Apate was drawn to Hecate's domain. A wicked grin played upon her lips as she entered, the flickering torches cast eerie shadows, amplifying the magical lair of the witch goddess. "Oh mistress of the night, I bring a tale that will surely amuse and appall you." Hecate raised an eyebrow her gaze penetrating the veil of Apate's facade. "What tale did you bring to my lair tonight" her voice excited to hear rumors of other goddess. " It's about the radiant moon goddess". Hecate's curiosity piqued. A wicked chuckle escaped Apate's lips as she continued. "Ah my dear Hecate, her jealousy is excessively amusing" , her pertaining to Selene was obviously understood by the witch goddess." She is nothing more than a weak goddess being consumed by her personal desire. Hecate's eyes narrowed, her expression growing serious. She always held a certain respect for Selene. 'Do you see the irony in Selene's plight? the moon goddess chasing for a love of a mortal man ,even if it means treading into the heart of another woman. " Hecate replied her voice carrying a sense of wisdom and authority. " But love can be a powerful force capable of blinding even the most powerful being.' Apate smiled while describing how Selene's jealousy appeared so entertaining. " She becomes restless, constantly seeking validation from others. Her jealousy reveals her vulnerability. Hecate defended Selene by explaining that it's the same weakness which will help her with the evil plan. Apate's laugh became louder as she gets the point of her confidante Hecate.

Apate's eyes glowed in intensity of hatred, reflecting her burning desire for revenge. " I will seek retribution for those who sealed me in the confines of the Pandoras box." The mortal and gods who taught they can stop my power will soon learn the folly of my action". I shall unleash chaos upon them inflicting their heart with darkness they so desperately sought to bury". Her eyes gleamed with delight. Hecate looking at her amazed by the amount of wickedness she so kept in her heart. A sly smile curled in her lips. " Tell me friend, who will you ensnare in your Doom box?" Apate smiled with both sweetness and venom, her voice laced with a deceptive charm.She started walking in circles and emphasize her point. " Long time ago, the mortals were but mere playthings to the whims of the gods.Love emerged from the primordial chaos. Aprodite the goddess of love embodied this emotion. Love is a double edged sword, it blinds and ensnares the heart. It weakens the strong and turns gentle into fools. Love my dear is the worst emotion, it deceives, it betrays and leaves a trail of broken heart in it's wake". Hecate's eyes were filled with confusion and intrigue. "But why Aphrodite? ". Love cannot be trusted to its own device, it must be contained and lock away like what they did to me and my sisters. "She is Zeus beloved daughter, most popular goddess of beauty and love" , you see Hecate to get revenge at the gods you have to choose the most beloved of all and let her experience the wrath of my revenge." I shall lock her within the Doom box, a prison of suffocating and relentless agony, the one in which we were trapped. ". A moment of silence hung into the air as Hecate absorbed the weight of Apate's words, for the second time she felt both sympathy and amazement for the goddess of deceit.

Lucia woke up to the soft rays of the morning sunlight filtering her bedroom window. As she stretched and yawned a sense of determination filled her heart. Today was Sunday and she felt a deep longing to seek solace and peace in the familiar embrace of the local church. With a renewed spirit, Lucia quickly freshened up and dressed in her Sunday best. She slipped into a simple elegant dress. The anticipation of finding comfort in the church enveloped her, as she set off on the journey through the quiet, streets of the town. As Lucia walked, she could not help but notice the hushed whispers and furtive glances from the people around her. The usually friendly faces seemed to carry a tinge of suspicion and judgement. Puzzled Lucia slowed her pace, straining to hear snippets of conversation as she passed by. " The audacity! she thinks she can just go to church as if nothing happened". "I heard she was involved on a hoax". Lucia's heart sank and the wave of confusion washed over her. The conversation seemed to have painted her in a completely different light and she could comprehend how such accusation could arise. She had been compassionate and caring specially to her loved ones. Unsure to react she continued on her path. Doubt and sadness crept into her thoughts. But a voice within her whispered urging her not to let rumors define her. As she entered the sanctuary, the familiar scent of incense and soft sound of prayers embraced her, providing a much needed refuge from the outside world. She focused on her faith, seeking strength and guidance.Deep down, she knew that her intentions to change and become better speaks louder than any malicious gossip

Meanwhile in the opulent chamber of Mount Olympus , Selene and Apate seriously discussed the rumors spread about Lucia and how Apate's flying monkeys had been busy spreading deceit and ensnaring Lucia's reputation and.casting shadows upon her heart. The rumors they spread and whispers that had tainted Lucia's reputation gave Apate and Selene a sense of power and satisfaction. A faint glimmer of gratification shine on Selene's eyes " Your deceitful touch has been most effective. Lucia's reputation will crumble and chances of winning the love she seeks will dwindle".Apate was smiling content with the turn of events. "My dear we will move to the next exciting part. Let your radiance shine tonight Unleash the enchantment that lies within you. Make your rival quiver in envy". Selene's eyes widened in curiosity. "But how can I do that".? Apate whispered the evil plan to the goddess of moon who's obsession has turned her light to complete darkness. "Tonight the world will witness your ever enchanting beauty that no man can ever dare to disowned ". Apate's laughter echoed within the entire Mount Olympus and without their knowledge the mighty god, Zeus has already perceived the twisted plan of the two astray goddess.

Robert decided to drop by Nicollo's house, he hasn't seen him for quite sometime. His footsteps echoing as he made his way towards Nicollo's quaint little house. Nothing seemed to have changed a bit. Nicollo's house nestled among the towering oak trees, it's charming facade exuding warmth and familiarity. The windows glowed with a soft inviting light, beckoning Robert to enter and immerse himself in the comfort of a true friend's company. As Robert entered the house memories flooded his mind, like pages from a well worn books. He recalled the countless times he had sought solace within this walls. Nicollo was one of the few friends who truly understood him, sharing the layers of his soul with extraordinary ease. The door creaked open, revealing Nicollo's smiling face. They exchanged wordless greeting, their silence filled their understanding. " Come in", Nicollo ushering him inside. He prepared two cups of brewed coffee as he was expecting his guest to arrive. The coffee offered a familiar comfort, just like their conversation which flowed effortlessly between them. Robert looked at the beautiful painting created by his friend. The scene unfolded with the bounds of a splendid garden. towering trees and a sunlight between the path below. A couple strolled hand in hand, their silhouette painted with majestic grace. Lucia's face flashed at Robert's mind as she is one of the reason he visited his friend. " Nicollo I came to speak with you about Lucia". Robert's voice was filled with mixed emotions. " Lucia is the love of my life, she has been with me through thick and thin, a steadfast companion.Our love weathered storms and celebrated triumph and the thought of loosing her will create loneliness and guilt into my soul '" Nicollo was attentively listening. " But just few days back the goddess of moon entered into my dreams, her beauty was mesmerizing and her presence captivating like I am in some form of a spell." She whispered promises of material wealth of life full of luxury beyond my wildest dreams." She will give me fame and power which I never had before. Robert's heart ached with confusion. His voice was desperate as he felt surge of emotions battling through him. Nicollo replied comparing what the two women constitutes to his friend's life. " Lucia represents familiarity, a love built in shared experience and a deep understanding of each other's soul. While Selene enticed you of the unknown, the tempting possiblity of life filled with riches, fame and power. You said your love for Lucia is undeniable but you yearning for material possessions and power made that love questionable". Nicollo explained his point. Robert stood up in the moonlit balcony. He realized that true love could not be replaced by any material gains, power or fame.

As the darkness deepened, the first glimmers appeared on the horizon. There it was, rising magically, a perfect orb of luminosity. The moon at its most beautiful form, majestically dancing, as if it's aware of it's magnificence. It invokes tranquility and radiance. It's beauty is breathtaking An embodiment of mystique casting a celestial glow on the world below.