So, it's here at last: tea-with-emilia's first multi-chapter fic!
I've had a few requests for multi-chapter, and I know I've been very wary about making any promises. Nonetheless, I am so so keen to publish this. I did want to make one thing clear: this isn't meant to be a "continuation" of the series. I'm not writing more episodes. That was Little Miss Illusional's job anyway! This is purely my own exploration of the events after the final episodes.
Anyway, enjoy! (And review, and etc etc etc)
Cronus stood in his usual regal stance, as if he ruled over more than a cell in Tartarus. After all, it was only a matter of time -no pun intended- until he was restored to his rightful throne.
The oracle gave a knowing sigh of frustration as the God approached.
"Your ego has always been your achilles heel, Cronus."
Cronus took a deep, invigorating breath, appreciating the beloved spring air.
"You know, Oracle, it really is a great day, isn't it?"
The oracle just sipped his coffee, ignoring Cronus' good mood. So, the god figured he may as well continue.
"It's fair to say I deserve my 'ego', as you call it. I did just break your prophecy."
The oracle did not smile.
"I'm right, aren't I?"
The Oracle did not look his usual smug self, and his answer was almost bitter.
"You know what I said about your ego, Cronus."
But the God just laughed: ecstasy had become his domain. He had defied -once more- the ridiculous strictures imposed upon him by his own insolent children.
He had earned a day of grace.
"And, may I remind you, those seven children are still alive. Including Theresa."
Cronus gave an involuntary sneer at the mention. Of course he knew they were alive: the Oracle only mentioned it to ruin his good mood. But Theresa was a thorn in the God's side, aura or no aura.
"Yes, I am aware, Oracle." Cronus answered, surveying the man with dismay, "In fact, that is why I am in the city now. Thought that to celebrate the end of the prophecy, I might just, ahem, sort out some matters. Tidying up, really."
His eyes had that familiar evil glint, but the freshness of the day still invigorated Cronus and his good mood refused to be too far dampened by the thought of the mortals.
Regardless, the thorn would not remain for much longer.
Hera's eyes were clear and cold, and her smile was a faint attempt at comfort. Truths Jay wanted to ignore sat nestled in Hera's face, peering out unabashedly at him.
He looked away, swallowing.
Her voice was as steady as her expression, and her eyes clawed to meet his.
"You can't save everyone, Jay."
Jay just shook his head. Refusal had become his trademark over the past few days. After all, a leader never gives up. His persistence was the one good trait Jay could honestly claim to possess.
"I won't accept this. I can change it. Fix it."
Hera sighed, looking away and scanning the room tiredly. Her good nature was draped across her like a dress: she remained calm but decided. And sympathetic. After all, the child was only human.
Perhaps he would learn.
"Jay, I believe-"
"Miss Hera, I appreciate the help but I can't always trust what you believe. You're the one who said she was only mortal, after all."
His voice had cut through her honey-smooth, calm dialogue with a sharp edge Hera didn't appreciate. Nor did she appreciate Jay's reference to her threat against Theresa. It was an ill-timed statement, and one that Hera felt compelled to forget. But she decided against responding to Jay's vitriol- it would serve no purpose. Hera forced herself to meet his eyes.
"Jay, I regret what I said."
"That's good."
His eyes were still hardened like toffee- sugar free toffee perhaps, because they lacked any sweetness. Hera continued despite his evident frustration.
"But I remain firm on my stance. People have to come to terms with things in their own time. You can't save everyone."
"And why not?"
A million reasons poured into Hera's mind: a thousand explanations of human nature. There were too many answers, and few the child could truly comprehend. And so Hera gave the simplest response possible:
"Because, Jay, she didn't ask you to save her."