"Such is my thought. Turn back, old friend. I shall press on alone. For good or evil, my fate lies ahead, in the bowels of this infernal region. Fare thee well, now go your way. And say a prayer to Zeus for the success of my mission."
Theseus placed his hand on Pirithous' shoulder. "We have fought many a battle, you and I. The times you have saved my life, and I yours, are innumerable. If fate calls you yonder, then you shall not go alone."
Would that loyalty and friendship were portents of success.
It was not to be.
Even the drawbridge was in place, and the great wooden door to
Pluto's castle, open. They entered warily.
Pluto grimaced in a friendly smile, if such it could be called.
"Welcome, for I have few such visitors. Come, join me. Sit on yonder bench, and let us discuss the purpose of your visit."
Woe unto those who sit upon the Chair of Forgetfulness!
Named rightly, even as the waters of Lethe, it cleanses the mind of all that went before!
And that the bench to which Pluto motioned them.