Zagreus catches the apple easily enough, and it's only once he has it in his hands that he seems to realize exactly what it is. "An apple," he marvels quietly, and while that would be curious enough on its own for him, he's acutely aware of what the lustrous golden color means. He's never had the opportunity to meet Hera, but he's heard plenty about her.

(For once in his life, Zagreus is momentarily speechless. He's the one who usually gives the gifts, thank you very much!)

"I, er- If this is to help me make it to Olympus, I do appreciate the sentiment, but I'd really rather make it there on my own merit. It's a bit of a pride thing, you see." He likes Hermes, trusts him as much as he can trust any of his cousins from up the mountain, but there's still uncertainty in his expression as his eyes sweep Hermes's face.