Upon Alcmene's death, Zeus asked Hercules to join him in ruling the gods of Olympus.  Hercules, still bitter toward his father, couldn't decide.  He recalled meeting Apollo, his half-brother, years ago.  Apollo gave him ambrosia, which transformed him into a full god.  But Zeus chastised his son, saying he was never destined for full godhood.  Chagrined, Hercules relinquished his new powers but still fought Apollo to a draw.  he then saved young Ariadne from Apollo's treachery.  This recollection resolved Hercules' indecision: He agreed to join Zeus on Mount Olympus, where he could do the most good for mankind.