Answer:
Rather than getting a reward for his abhorrent deed, Orestes is all of a sudden assaulted by the Furies. These dull winged, snake-haired women from the Underworld are responsible for rebuffing transgressors, particularly those that carry out violations against their very own family.
Inevitably, Apollo intercedes and sets up a preliminary in Athens, complete with a jury and Athena, goddess of insight, as the judge. Orestes is absolved, the Furies are given a position of respect, and everyone makes an upbeat move.
