Argos was ablaze with bonfires beneath the night sky. Having lived through sacrifices and a war among gods, the people lamented how hard it was to stay alive and decided to eat and drink well, spend their money while they still had it, and celebrate another peaceful day.
The palace was lit as brightly as day. Officials arrived bearing gifts to congratulate King Kepos on marrying off his daughter. It was a highly publicized wedding, all because the groom was Zeus's son.
Kepos hoped to reinforce the royal family's rule through this wedding. Having witnessed battles between gods and the world-destroying power they wielded with every gesture, the nobles readily pledged their loyalty now that the father had risen through his son-in-law.
The wedding was somewhat rushed, but the bride's family was rich, and the groom's family had directly brought over a mountain of gold. The spectacle was sufficient, so no one cared that the ceremony was overly hasty.
In the shadows far from the wedding feast, Russell gently swirled a golden goblet. The wine inside was distilled and purified, its color constantly changing.
He was brewing wine with electromagnetic force.
"Will you remain in Argos after tonight?"
"What, do you want to roam the world with me?"
Russell did not even turn around. He knew the newcomer was A'e. This woman had been coveting his body for quite some time. She only acted reserved on the surface, thinking no one had noticed.
"No, I was merely asking."
A'e shook her head slightly, her expression complicated. "I just met Zeus. He lifted my curse. You were right—my fate is closely tied to yours and Perseus's."
"Where did you meet, the cattle pen or with that Pegasus... you know, what I mean is, Zeus lifted your curse?"
Russell spoke in surprise.