Artemis, the goddess of the moon and hunt, lay in her bed, her curly brown hair splayed out like a halo on the pillow. She had not eaten in a week, nor showered, nor left her bed in two days. The room was dimly lit, the only source of light coming from the small window that overlooked the vast expanse of the universe.
The door to her bedchamber creaked open, and Apollo, her twin brother and god of the sun, entered the room. His face was etched with concern, and he held a plate of ambrosia in his outstretched hand.
"Artemis, you must eat something," he said, his voice gentle yet firm.
Artemis turned away, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I am not hungry," she whispered, her voice barely audible.
Apollo placed the plate on the bedside table and sat down on the edge of the bed. "You have not left this room since...since the abortion," he said, his voice softening.
Artemis flinched at the word, her body tensing. "I broke my vow of chastity with Athena and Hestia. I was forced to get an abortion," she said, her voice filled with bitterness.
Apollo reached out and took her hand. "It was not your fault, Artemis. You were tricked by Orion, the hunter. It was not your choice."
Artemis pulled her hand away, her eyes flashing. "Do not speak of him. I should have known better. I should have been stronger."
Apollo sighed. "You are strong, Artemis. But even the strongest of us need help sometimes."
Artemis sat up, her back straight. "I do not need help. I am the goddess of the hunt. I am self-sufficient."
Apollo raised an eyebrow. "Self-sufficient, yes. But even the goddess of the hunt needs to eat and shower."
Artemis glared at him. "Fine. I will eat. But only because you are annoying me."
Apollo grinned. "I will take that as a victory."
Artemis picked up a piece of ambrosia and took a small bite. "Do not get too excited. I am still angry with you."
Apollo laughed. "I would not have it any other way, sister."
Artemis finished the plate of ambrosia and allowed Apollo to help her to the shower. She was still angry, but she knew that her brother was right. She needed to take care of herself, even if it was just to prove him wrong.
As the warm water cascaded down her body, Artemis felt a sense of relief wash over her. She had been so consumed by her anger and guilt that she had forgotten to take care of herself. She had forgotten that she was not just the goddess of the hunt, but a woman too.
As she stepped out of the shower, Artemis felt a renewed sense of strength. She would not let what had happened define her. She would rise above it and continue to be the goddess that her followers revered.
"Thank you, Apollo," she said, her voice filled with gratitude.
Apollo smiled. "Anytime, sister. I am always here for you."
Artemis nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. She was ready to face the world again, stronger and more determined than ever.
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