Final answer:
The narrative monologue has King Pelias expressing a complex mix of emotions: disbelief, fear, and anxiety during the banquet. He is disturbed by Jason's claim to bring the Golden Fleece as it aligns with an ominous prophecy.
Step-by-step explanation:
As King Pelias, my emotions swirl about me during the banquet in the story 'Jason's Challenge'. The banquet, once a sign of opulence and celebration, now bears an ominous weight as Jason's challenge brings an unexpected turn of events. I'm flooded with disbelief as he declares he will bring the Golden Fleece. Does he not understand its grandeur, or the impossibility of his bold proclamation? Yet, there is fear in my heart as well. Jason may be youthful, but he possesses determination, bravery, and surprising ruthlessness. Even more troubling is the prophecy - that a man wearing only one sandal will be my downfall. And now, remembering Jason arrived with one sandal, anxiety gnaws at me. What if he does succeed? Only time can reveal the truth. Yet, as a king, I must bear a placid exterior, hiding my crescendoing tumult from my subjects.
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