Artemis sat on a marble bench, meticulously cleaning her hunting bow, the cool forest breeze playing with her hair. She was lost in thought, the rhythm of her cleaning a soothing balm to her worries.
The rustling of leaves announced the arrival of her brother, Apollo. He approached her with a warm smile, but his eyes narrowed as he drew closer. “Artemis, my dear sister,” he greeted, embracing her. His nose twitched, detecting a lingering scent that was decidedly un-maidenly.
Apollo pulled back, his brow furrowed. “Artemis, have you been breaking your vow of chastity?” he asked, an eyebrow quirked in suspicion.
Artemis stuttered, her fingers fumbling with the bow. “N-no, of course not,” she lied, her cheeks flushing.
Apollo’s gaze was sharp, seeing through her deceit. “Artemis,” he said, his voice stern. “You forget who you’re speaking to. I am the god of truth.”
Artemis sighed, defeated. “I... I have broken my vow,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “With Orion, one of my hunters.”
Apollo’s face darkened, his hand reaching for his bow and arrow. “Orion?” he growled, “A hunter? Really, Artemis?”
Artemis jumped up, her eyes flashing. “Apollo, put down that bow,” she commanded, her voice firm. “You promised me you wouldn’t hurt him.”
Apollo’s fingers twitched, but he stopped. “I can’t believe you, Artemis,” he retorted, his voice filled with disappointment. “A hunter? Really?”
Artemis’ eyes flashed, her temper ignited. “At least I’m not chasing after every mortal that catches my eye,” she shot back, her voice sharp.
Apollo scowled, but lowered his weapon. “You’re right, sister,” he conceded. “I have my own vices.”
Artemis breathed a sigh of relief, her shoulders sagging. “Please, Apollo,” she pleaded, her voice soft. “I care for him deeply. Don’t take him away from me.”
Apollo hesitated, then nodded in agreement. “But,” he warned, “if he hurts you, Artemis, all bets are off.”
Artemis nodded, understanding his terms. “I will be careful,” she promised, her voice sincere. She knew she had to tread carefully, but the thought of losing Orion was unbearable. She would do anything to protect him, even if it meant challenging her own brother.
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