Chapter X
Aphrodite's golden hair whipped around her as the ship rose and fell on the waves. She sighed contently she always felt content when she was near the sea. Hephaestus come on deck and stood beside her. He handed her a glass of nectar " here I thought you may want a drink" " thank you for thinking of me " she replied smiling. Hephaestus sighed and thought how good it was to see an actual smile cross her lips for a change. The sky became streaked with pink and gold as Aurora rose from her slumber. It was in the pale light of dawn that Aphrodite and Hephaestus landed on Cyprus. As they stepped onto the sand the Graces appeared " Greeting Aphrodite Greeting Hephaestus welcome home" the Graces had been Aphrodite's maids since she first landed on Cyprus . They were surprised when Aphrodite had sent news that she was coming with Hephaestus , however they were also pleased. That had long felt that Aphrodite was making a grave mistake by engaging in an affair with Ares and should rebuild her relationship with her husband. However they knew that trying to persuade her of this was fruitless so they had resolved to remain silent and wait to see what happened. "We are preparing a banquet for you it will be ready shortly would you like to rest until it is ready?" one of the Graces asked. " What a charming suggestion" replied Aphrodite with a gracious smile , but I believe I would like to stretch my legs for a bit . Hephaestus would you like to join me for a walk around the island?" " I would be delighted" said Hephaestus offering her his arm. She took his arm as they walked away. The Graces watched the couple; they were pleased that Aphrodite was making an effort, but they were still confused. The two walked in silence until they came to a garden. The garden contained every flower imaginable along with several fruit trees. "It's wonderful Aphrodite. I suppose this is where you first landed" "Yes, when I touched land flowers begin to grow under my feet. I could not resist seeing what else would happen so I put my hands on the ground , that's when the trees sprang up, then the Graces told me I had to go to Mount Olympus" " and the rest is history" said Hephaestus with a grin. Aphrodite laughed. They looked at one another "Hephaestus I" suddenly one of the Graces appeared. " Aphrodite Hephaestus the banquet is ready" "Thank you "said Aphrodite. She and Hephaestus turned and walked towards the canopy where the Graces had prepared a magnificent banquet for them. After pouring the ambrosia Aphrodite started to entertain Hephaestus with stories about the island. He smiled and laughed as she weaved her stories, but he did wonder what she had left unsaid in the garden.
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That night Aphrodite gathered the Graces in her chamber and told them the journey she was planning to undertake. The Graces agreed that it was something she needed to do. "I am glad you approve ladies, there is something I needed to ask you" The Graces waited. Aphrodite let out a long breath before speaking. I need you to tell me what you truly think about my relationship with Ares." It was now the Graces turn to hesitate. Aphrodite was very dear to them and they wanted to be honest with her. However they knew better than anyone how quickly her temper could flare and they needed to remain in her favor. Aphrodite sensed their hesitation " I promise I am not going to get angry, I need to know" The Graces looked at one another and decided to take a risk after all it would be a long time before she returned. The oldest of the Graces took her hand and said , " Aphrodite we understand why you are attracted to Ares, He is handsome ,passionate and married life had gotten boring. "However Ares is also selfish and can be cruel." "We know he cares for you" said another of the Graces in response to the look on Aphrodite's face. "But think about it Aphrodite if your truly going to find Love then you have to be with a man who is open to it. Do you really think Ares is going to be" Aphrodite remained silent. The Graces continued they already knew what she was thinking. " Ares has been holding you back for a long time; and especially now that you decided to do something for yourself" The youngest of the Graces touched her arm and said " Forget him Aphrodite" Aphrodite nodded " thank you ladies now I believe I should rest" The Graces nodded and then bowed as they left the room.