Alcyone, waiting

‘I sit by the window looking out to sea; most days it is grey and threatening and fills me with fear. I have no news of my beloved Ceyx. Is he all right? Is he cold as they’re crossing this inhospitable sea? Does he feel the weight of his royal duties heavy on his mind?

I keep myself busy. I go out everyday to visit my friend, Niobe, or to bring produce from the palace orchards to those who could use it. I spend time in the kitchen helping to make marmalade to have on fresh bread when we will be sitting out with Ceyx in the patio in the spring mornings. I taste the oranges and feel their sweetness on my palette and feel happy for a moment. And then suddenly the memory of my Ceyx missing from my side hits me hard and overwhelms me.’