The Sanctity of Knowledge

Chapter 9
Chapter 9

Athena sat outside on the patio in her bathrobe, taking in the morning sunrise.  As she stared out over the horizon, she reflected upon her latest visit to the realm of mortals.  As in the past, she was compelled to do so by her divine responsibilities.  Dealing with the profane was, unfortunately, a duty that all Gods and Goddesses had to attend to from time to time.  How they did so, however, was entirely up to them.  Athena considered her methods merciful compared to the retribution meted out by her peers.  True, she had to make certain concessions to the Horai in order to carry out her preferred method of punishment, but she found it to be a worthwhile bargain.  Not only did she avenge the sins committed against her temple, but she gained “sons” and “daughters” whom served her temple after their punishments had been completed. 

Angelia was one such former sinner-turned-daughter.  Like Alexa, her life had been re-authored and Athena raised her as her own.  After years of good behavior, she would be allowed to grow up again, but not until she carried out the task given to her by her Mother Goddess.  Athena taught her how to construct the symbols that would serve as the catalyst for Alexa’s punishment.  Her assignment now completed; the girl would be permitted to once again mature to womanhood.  What’s more, she’d be permitted to adopt a daughter of her own.  While her punishment was complete, her indebtedness to Athena would remain eternal.  Athena felt it a fair bargain.  Angelia, undoubtedly, would agree.  As the sun began to fully rise, Athena was alerted by the faint sounds of a crying child.  She stood up, took a deep breath and took one last glance at the rising sun.  The first day of Alexa’s divine punishment had begun.