Summary

“Alcyone and Ceyx enter variously” (20).

The Second Laundress, now identified as the Narrator, introduces the story of King Ceyx and Queen Alcyone, who was “daughter of Aeolus, master of the winds” (20). She describes how happy they are, but then says that “nothing in this world is safe” (20). Alcyone says it is not true; Ceyx says it is.

Ceyx resolves to go on a sea voyage. Alcyone urges him to not go, telling him that her father’s winds will not show him any mercy and saying that she fears he will not return. Ceyx says that he feels “stranded … afraid, domesticated, diminished” (21), and that he will be back in two months. Alcyone remains convinced that he will not; he remains determined to go. He completes his preparations and sets out. Alcyone watches him go, the boat and its sails disappearing...