Page 157 of Styx

I knew my relationship with Leto

had been one of tolerance.

But here on this journey

she had proven herself to be

an ally in so many ways.

She smiled back at me gently.

Then Leto, Pallas, and I

walked out into the unknown.

Where Night Meets Day

Halfway between the world, in the middle of the sky, hidden from the eyes of mortals and immortals alike, is an impossible hall. Its arches and pillars are made from storm clouds and hurricanes. Its floor is the midnight blue of the night and the dome is made of the sun’s rays, bathing it in a golden hue. At the centre of this hall is a long trapeza laden with chalices of nectar, full plates of ambrosia, the finest of golden apples and crimson pomegranates, honeycomb and cheese, meat marinated in the most delicious of spices and cooked well. Every morning, this was where it was decided that day would follow night. Every evening, they would conclude the opposite. But the two Gods who sat on either end of the trapeza met here always to continue this row. On one side sat burly, yellow-bearded Hyperion, his eyes bright like the sun he was known for, a constant smile on his face. On the other sat the most terrifying and mysterious of all the Primordial Gods, Nyx – her dark hair loose and filled with glowing stars, her onyx skin glowing dangerously in the subtle light of the hall as her black eyes glittered with story and spite.

Nyx, Goddess of the Night

There was a reason why Asteria and I

spoke of her in reverent voices.

Amongst all the Goddesses,

Nyx stood alone in the fear

she inspired amongst the Gods.

Even my father, eldest of the Titans,

was so terrified of her, he winced

whenever her name was brought up.

Oh, to be able to strike fear like that

just by the sound of your name.

It was a thing I could only dream of.

I, relegated to nymph, when I could be so much more.

When we entered, Nyx turned and boomed,

‘CHILDREN OF TITANS. WHAT BRINGS YOU

TO THE SACRED HALLS OF NIGHT AND DAY?’

And even Perses, with all his valour,

suddenly looked lost for words

in front of the great, ancient Night.

A Nymph Amongst Gods