Page 149 of Styx

They are a soft hum in the dark.

A hum that Atlas sang to us.

‘The stars’ energy built this orchard.

That’s why Gods can stand here.

If every star left this place,

we would fall into the oceans below.’

Asteria stepped forward,

her eyes shining bright.

Asteria was the Goddess

of Falling Stars. Atlas made them.

‘I have always wanted to meet you,’

she told him with awe. Atlas extended

a large hand and gently placed it

on Asteria’s shoulder.

‘You have been kind to my stars, niece,’

he said tenderly. ‘They told me

you have guided their siblings

to their endings well.’

Asteria’s eyes shone and I could not

help but smile too. To be told

you did your loving work well

was a gift not many younger Gods

received from older deities.

She took a moment to compose

herself and asked softly,

‘Uncle, did our sister Metis

come here to you?’

Atlas moved his hand to his chin

as though in deep thought.

‘She did. She was looking for