ToZ Bk 2: The Time of Typhon
Copyright© 2024 by Carlos Santiago
Chapter 8: Turning From the Earth
“Acting on your best behaviour
Turn your back on Mother Nature
Everybody wants to rule the world”
— “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” performed by Tears for Fears. Written by Roland Orzabal, Ian Stanley, and Chris Hughes. From the album Songs from the Big Chair. Originally released on February 25, 1985. Produced by Chris Hughes. Released by Phonogram Records / Mercury Records. © 1985 Phonogram Ltd. (UK). All rights reserved.
Dawn’s light barely grazed against the sea when Zeus made his way to Gaia’s sequestered island. He was careful not to come across as threatening as his foot touched down on the lush, green grass.
He had found memories of the island. He had grown up there under Gaia’s tutelage before the Great War. Recalling where Gaia had taken his virginity, the King of Olympus turned his head, hearing the noise of children at place.
Zeus followed the sound to a small clearing where his mother was playing with a young boy and a girl. Gaia emerged from another part of her forest too late to prevent him from seeing his offspring. Her expression bounced between surprise and apprehension. Knowing her grandson’s temper and quickness to react, she braced herself for the confrontation to come.
That was who he once was. With Metis’ essence infused with his, Zeus showed little concern for Gaia or the children. He motioned for her to follow him. His air of authority was more than enough to make sure she complied.
There was a pause when he led them both to the edge of the first, near the beach. He wasted no time when she properly joined him.
“I assume those children are mine?”
The Earth Primordial did not look away from her devastatingly destructive descendent. While she could not be certain of why he had come to her home, she had her speculative intuition to give her pause. As such, she knew truth would be all she could do in this instant.
“They are,” Gaia answered honestly.
“Why did you not tell me?” Zeus inquired.
He allowed a small fragment of his anger to spice his question.
“You were busy with Olympus and your affections with Metis,” Gaia replied. “You know I would never want to interfere—”
Zeus did not allow her to finish her deception. Lightning crackled from his gray eyes, lighting up the orbs that allowed him to see.
“I know what you did, Gaia,” Zeus declared coldly.
“Did?” Gaia implored.
“Do not try that,” Zeus warned. “After dealing with the monster you conceived, I am in no mood for further treachery from you.”
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