Stupid Cupid

Chapter 5: Ask The Oracle

Chapter 5

Ask the Oracle

It has been a few months since Eros set everything back to normal. And everything was, except for Psyche, all continue to admire and praise her beauty, but none desire her as a wife. Fearful that they did something to upset the gods, her guardians, Agnes and Collin went to seek advice from the oracle.

They were hoping to find an answer, for they wish is for Psyche to be happy and to settle down. But even with her beauty, she still is single. So hopefully the oracle can help them, and advise them how to make amends so Psyche can get married.

“So she has not had any suitors? I see that she is most beautiful.” Collin puts his hand affectionately Perhaps she was not meant to be with mortals.” Agnes and Collin both look at each other. “You mean she’ll never be married?”

“How old is she?” Agnes was about to speak when Collin squeezes her hand. “She is almost 21, her birthday is in exactly a week.”

“From what has happened, it is obvious that a mortal shall not be her husband. Here is my advice, give her a week, to try to find a mortal. If she succeeds then wonderful, but, if she fails.” The oracle trails off, busying herself. “What will happen?”

“If she was meant for one of the gods, they will be angered. Then the only way to please them, would be to leave her at the top of the nearest  mountain, and let them take her.  For then her destiny was to be the wife of a god not man.”

“But what will they do to her?” The Oracle got up, turning her back to Agnes and Collin. “Who knows, they might still take her if she pleases them, or they might make her a slave. But you will never see her again.”

“What if we refuse to accept this fate? We make our own destiny.” The Oracle lays out a book on the table, opening to a page. She points to the pictures of dead bodies. “Don’t you think people have already tired to outwit the gods? The results are far worse than your loss ever could be. I know Psyche, she won’t let you be sacrificial lambs for her sake. I’d say take this time and enjoy your last few days together.”

“But no one has desired her hand. What difference will a week make?” The sound of coins jingling in a bag is heard. “You a wealthy, why not arrange a marriage with a man who will be willing to take a generous offer?”

Agnes and Collin made their way home, with heavy hearts. They were greeted by a heavenly smell. “Oh, you’re back! Come in and see! I’ve made something new.” Psyche proudly places plates full of food in front of them. “Tada! Now eat.”

As they eat, Psyche notices that they are not as lively and chatty as usual. “Have I done something wrong?” At Psyche’s words, Agnes bursts into tears and leaves the room. “Uncle, what is it? Tell me, I’ll fix it.” Collin takes Psyche’s hand in his and smiles sadly at her. “We need to talk.”

Psyche sat there, listening, patiently. Her face now also bore sadness. “We can beat this my dear, Daimen is looking for a wife and it would profit him if he chose you.” Psyche gets up. “No! He’d be marrying me for the wrong reason. I deserve better. I want to be wanted for more than my money and my looks.”

“We don’t have time! Besides, he is handsome and from an excellent family. What more do you want?” Psyche slams her hands down on the table, startling her guardians. “Love. Is that really too much to ask? I don’t want riches, or outward appearances. I want extraordinary love and passion, I want desire and adventure with some danger. That’s what I want. And if I can’t find it, I’d much rather jump off the edge of the mountain top at the end of the week than spend my life with the wrong person. I won’t settle for the life you think I deserve. Being the slave of a god isn’t as bad as being with the wrong person. Not to me anyway!”

Psyche realises that she was too harsh with them. “I’m sorry, I’m so sorry. I don’t want to hurt you or disappoint you. This is just something I won’t relent on. I’ll try to see if I find someone this week. But Maybe I was just never meant to be with someone, and I’m alright with that.”

Agnes embraces her and holds her, sobbing into her long hair. “I promised your parents I’d take care of you.” Psyche comforts her aunt. “You have taken care of me, now it’s my turn, I won’t let you be punished for something that is my fault. It’s my choice, and I’ve made my decision. Please respect it.”