Page 88 of Styx

to get his attention,

which he readily gave.

They pulled at his hands

leading him away.

I had seen this happen

countless times,

and yet this time,

I felt it like the sting

of fresh salt

on an open wound.

But he turned back

as he was led away,

and offered me a smile.

I did not return it.

‘What Did He Say?’

Asteria appeared by my side.

She was still holding her chalice,

but her eyes were brighter

and her mood merrier.

‘He asked about the rivers

I helped my father build,’

I said in annoyance.

Asteria fell into step beside me.

‘That he takes an interest

in what you do is good,’

she told me quietly.

I stopped walking and turned.

‘Why would it matter?’

I asked in annoyance.

‘I can see no point