The Story Of Zagreus

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Zagreus was born to the hospitable King of the Underworld, Hades and the Goddess of spring, Persephone. He was destined to become the next king, and when he was old enough he went to Olympus to meet the other gods, as he had lead a sheltered life. He was very unaware of how people interacted or how to talk to people other than his family. The Olympic Pantheon was rather intimidating to him as everyone seemed so much older and mature than him. A particular god caught his eye however, one who seemed to be the same age and not mature in the slightest. He bowed before the gods and festivities began. He noticed that the younger god poured all the wine and handed out glasses to the guests. Hades tapped on Zagreus' shoulder.

"What's the matter my son? Is this a little too much excitement for your first time here?" he asked. Zagreus shook his head. "Who is that god? The one pouring wine?" Zagreus said, while pointing at the young god. "That is Dionysus, the God of Wine and Madness," Hades answered. Zagreus continued to stare at Dionysus until he approached him.

"Wine?" he asked excitedly. Zagreus held his glass close to him and looked up at his father for approval. Hades nodded and walked off to his wife, who was talking to her mother. Zagreus held the glass closer to Dionysus. "I'd love some," he said, not sure what wine was exactly, only knowing it was important. Dionysus poured some wine in his glass and went around to the other gods. Once he was finished pouring all of the wine, all the gods sat at a large table.

"To the future King of Hades!" Zeus announced, raising his glass. The gods cheered and drank. Zagreus was seated across from Dionysus, who looked over and said "I guess they seated the future kings together, as I am to succeed Zeus." Zagreus was surprised by this and said nothing and looked away. He got up and went to Aphrodite, whom he asked to speak in private with.