The Weight of the Crown! 2/4
Soon after, Poseidon had a son named Aethius, who attempted to rape Ares' daughter, Eysis.
Ares killed Aethius to protect his daughter's chastity, and was subsequently accused by Poseidon of murder.
In conclusion, Zeus placed the case in the Council for trial, with all the gods in attendance, and even invited humans to observe the proceedings.
This was the first case of divine conflict and murder handled by the Council. The defendant was Ares, the accuser was Poseidon, and the judges were twelve of the more important gods.
Even more dramatically, it was Medusa the Goddess of Vengeance, who defended Ares and his daughter.
Her clear and logical presentation, evidence, and questioning left Poseidon speechless.
After a trial, Themis declared the murder charge not guilty, and the gods unanimously agreed to release Ares, God of War, without charge.
From then on, the Council became known in Greece for its fairness, and the proud Athenians, in commemoration of this historical event and to honor the victory of their patron goddess Athena over Ares, named the mountain Mount of Ares.
Gradually, the name "Council" as used by the Greeks was forgotten, while the name "Mount of Ares" became deeply ingrained in people's minds and was widely known throughout Greece.
Mount of Ares? Council?
Samael's expression turned strange when he recalled this part.
In his memory, the Mount of Ares Council was a well-known organization with verifiable historical records.
Even after the Age of Gods, Mount of Ares still served to protect the laws of the Athens, governed most of the city-state's major affairs, and directly tried and punished anyone who disrupted public order, wielding immense power.
Even during the Iliad War, Mount of Ares continued to play an important role.
So, what exactly did I change?
Samael found this both amusing and exasperating, discovering that the rewriting of history seemed quite intriguing.
In addition to Mount of Ares, Athens has another organization that is equally popular – the Athenian Academy.
This is an educational institution that has existed since the dawn of humanity, with the goal of dispelling ignorance and enlightening wisdom.
Founded by the Chiron the Wise and other deities, it attracted a wide range of talented individuals from all over Greece during its time, resulting in an unprecedented development of education there.
Later, a large number of outstanding graduates, including Asclepius, God of Medicine, joined Mount of Ares, further expanding Athens' influence among monsters, demigods, and even gods.
Today, Athens is renowned and has long been the cultural center of Greece, earning the reputation of "Greeks' Athens".
Even though the so-called "Mount of Ares" and "Mount Olympus" were in a state of confrontation and often offended each other, Zeus, faced with Athens, which was managed like an ironclad fortress, had no choice but to acquiesce to their legitimate existence.
After all, Delphi had the Oracle of Apollo, Sparta had the Arena of Ares, and Ephesus had the Temple of Artemis. Weren't these children all busy trying to expand their faith?
Add to that the curse of Poros' usurpation, the covetous eyes of his brother Poseidon, and the family conflicts with his wife Hera, and even with his extraordinary wisdom, how could this King of Gods possibly manage everything?
For some reason, Samael felt a faint sympathy for the bewildered Olympian King of Gods.
Since taking that position, he has hardly had a peaceful day.
Forget it, if you want to wear the crown, you must bear the consequences. He chose this path himself, so why should I care?
After sorting through that blank period of history, the ancient snake stretched and looked pleased.
It must be said that Athena's achievements in just a few hundred years have far exceeded his expectations.
However, a hundred years pass in a flash, and many things and many people change.
He didn't want to go any deeper or face any trials, so when he arrived at the Peloponnese Peninsula, he felt a kind of trepidation, like being close to home.
Fortunately, Samael hitched a ride on Atalanta's Cat carriage, preparing to meet the heroes who would Calydon be renowned throughout Greece.
You have your careers, and I have my plans.
Before meeting, there should be some presentable Meeting Gift.
As the ancient snake murmured, it raised its chin, revealing an inherent sense of restraint and pride.
In reality, what Samael failed to realize was that the qualities he possessed that attracted the proud goddess, besides emotional investment and moral integrity, also included their mutual excellence.
Sizzle!
Suddenly, the sharp scraping sound of knives and forks on the plate interrupted the ancient snake's thoughts.
He couldn't help but feel a little hungry, but when he looked up, all the snacks and dishes on the table were gone.
Across from him Circe, surrounded by a tall stack of plates, his cheeks puffing out like a hamster's.
As two oppressive gazes fell upon her, Circe stared at the messy dining table and her small body stiffened.
"You ate it all?"
"Well..."
"It seems he likes it."
Just as the Great Witch was about to argue—or rather, explain— Samael casually waved his hand, summoning a restaurant waiter.
"Then let's have another one, so we can share."
When another batch of food was served, the ancient serpent beckoned Circe start eating.
When did he become so good?
Could it be that they're planning to fatten me up before eating me?
Circe looked at Samael at this moment, his mind involuntarily becoming somewhat confused and uneasy.
Ultimately, lured by the "law of deliciousness," the Great Witch couldn't resist the food's deliciousness and accepted the invitation to feast.
After they had eaten their fill, the ancient serpent showed no signs of attacking, Circe finally felt relieved, her bright, colorful eyes fixed intently on the wicked creature.
Samael, what a wonderful person!
Uh, it's just feeding her, how did she develop Stockholm Syndrome? Was I too harsh on her before?
When the ancient snake saw the little Witch opposite him, whose cheeks were flushed and whose expression was both apprehensive and affectionate, the corner of his mouth twitched slightly, and he secretly repented.
When Circe was completely unable to eat anymore, Samael casually ordered a portion, intending to bring it to Atalanta to try.
This move caused the Mad Feast Witch following behind to scratch her head in confusion.
"Shouldn't the eldest sister have already eaten by now?"
Do you think everyone is as well-off as we are, with no worries about food and drink?
Samael casually tossed a few gold coins to the waiter, lightly tapping Circe on the Circe, responding with an annoyed snort.
"She doesn't even have money for food? Then she needs to find a place to live..."
"You're full, aren't you? Just carry it and leave, stop talking nonsense!"
When Circe asked her questions, the ancient snake rolled its eyes, tossed the food box to the little girl, and then, after finding out the way to the leather and herb market, led Circe to that area.
Half an hour later, Atalanta, relieved, clutched the money bag, carefully counted the money, and breathed a long sigh of relief.
The bark and herbs were finally sold, and the buyer was knowledgeable and generous, offering a high price that would cover her rent for a nearby apartment for a month or two.
Next, we need to find a place to live.
Just as the Huntress stretched her limbs, wiped the sweat from her forehead, and prepared to continue her efforts, she saw two figures, one tall and one short, carrying food boxes, walking from the crossroads. She waved happily.
Come to think of it, I'm actually a little hungry.
Atalanta's nostrils flared as she caught a whiff of the delicious food from afar, and she quickened her pace.