Evening had come, but it was just another ordinary night in an ordinary world. Mirth and good will warmed the tropical air further as many enjoyed their appetizers under the cabana roof. Nearly all were as relaxed as their clothes; She was different. She was a silent angel at the bar.
Further down its length, a group of servants chuckled as the ever-sharp bartender went about his flairs like a practiced champion. His present friends clapped for the studious alchemist. With grace and pizazz, he bowed to them as their claps fell muted among the dinner music. But all the lone woman could hear was the smooth sax that played over the speaker as her glance cut across the bar in expectation.
Beneath her silky red strapless dress that hugged her seductive curves like a needy mate, her heart beat heavily. Her white hair shimmered like a moonlit lake in summer beneath the adoring lights. Yet, the beautiful flame sat alone, swirling her wine in hand gently. With every blink, her divine lashes beckoned to the air, hoping that he would answer…
The heartbreaker who left her craving more. The mysterious man who played with her fiery heart, and dared to tame its heat. Any second, his dashing figure could appear from the crowds. If not today, tomorrow, or even the next day. She was patient, but impatient. She'd wait for him to walk into her evening whisk her away with smooth wor- "What's with this corny narration tonight!? You're thinking it so loud I can see it too, you know!"
Artemis puffed her cheeks and stared towards the bar. Orion sat there in a cute little white suit she'd found for him; It was in a toy section. Thanks to the Stitch Witches, it mimicked a killer tuxedo Bond would wear… if he was the size of a teddy bear. A cute little adorable teddy bear that just happened to be her lover's current form. He had his own matching wine glass in hand, and his cheeks were already flushed after a few sips.
But he scowled, and she scowled as she shot back, "Then play along! You know it's you I'm imagining! So sweep me off my feet for once!"
"How many times do I have to say I can't do that in this stupid form!?" he yelled back. Paracelsus and his friends glanced over with amused stares as the couple merely fell into their usual form of affection: Marital-style bickering. "If I tried it'd end up like one of those romcoms you're so obsessed about!"
"It's better than nothing!" she huffed, sipped her wine, then pouted cutely. "Just once, I wish you'd romance me! Just like the good old days!"
"Maybe if I get a proper body from the saint graph, I'll consider it!" he countered, then thought a little too loudly so she heard. "Would be nice to hit on some of these other hotties too… They wouldn't say no with my killer looks that'd put Achilles to shame!"
"How could you!" She accused and slapped him. Hard, but not enough to send him flying. He merely rubbed his cheek and stared with apology and fear, but there would be no wrath of ancient gods. She only pouted back. She knew it was in his nature to think that, but that didn't mean she wasn't going to punish him every time he did. He was supposed to be loyal to his Greek goddess!
But he fell quiet and confused as the pouting Artemis stared off into the outdoor cafeteria. With his simple thought, he provoked another thought that demanded her attention. With her little film-style love fantasy now in the back of her mind, she stared to a distant table, past the gathering of child servants as they enjoyed festive pumpkin pie. There, he saw the rider in question sitting alone with her dear devotee.
Artemis had to admit: He was handsome. His emerald tuxedo with a white rose only made him look sharper. Atalanta across from him matched him in a jade strapless dress and a white shawl. He seemed to make a joke, and they shared a joyful laugh together, yet she only stared in scrutiny.
"Hey. Just leave them be. It's their first date," Orion stated as he walked back to his drink and sat down beside the tall glass. "Your devotee can handle herself."
"She can. But It's Achilles I'm worried about." And that was the truth of it all. She loved Atalanta dearly, and wished to do everything to ensure a happy future for her. The same was the case for her adorable adopted children, whose smiles made her day brighter than the top of Olympus itself. Artemis loved the happiness they found together… a joy she could share in as their 'Goddessmother.'
That's why her concern boiled within. Anything that threatened that needed to be scrutinized and approved. She'd yet to say anything about it, nor bring it up to Atalanta. However, despite what the children thought of him, and even her devotee, she needed to confirm or disprove her own reservations. She'd yet to act upon it, but now that Atalanta actually called this meeting a date, the goddess knew she couldn't put off her wishes any longer.
"…Just don't do anything crazy. You divines tend to make a mess of things," Orion's voice echoed in her mind.
She merely stared at him with an unnervingly straight face. "I'll do what I have to, Orion. As her patron Goddess, I owe Atalanta no less than my full devotion."
It was time to see if Achilles was truly worthy of her blessing… To allow that man to get even closer to Atalanta.
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Fragment 89: Divine Judgement
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The night had passed uneventfully; Artemis' plan was simple enough she didn't need to stay up to prepare. She'd start first thing in the morning just as soon as she handled her first task. It was a new little event in her possible daily routine, and one she was always more than happy to fulfill. She especially loved the warm fuzzy feeling she got in turn, especially with the adorable complaining that echoed through the sunny Agora.
"Jackie! It's been weeks! Do you still have to put up this act!?" Nursery Rhyme groaned.
The assassin wined and pouted. "But I don't wannaaa! I don't wanna go to school! Learning is boring!"
Artemis, in a beautiful white sheath dress, only chuckled as she held the assassin's hand in a warm, but very firm, grip. At her other side, Nursery Rhyme was staring dryly at her sister, who was making a small show of trying to wiggle out of Artemis' hold; Jack still walked. She'd even put her school uniform on as pristinely as her sister, but Artemis never did ask if Atalanta was the one to guilt her into it.
"But you will because it makes mommy very happy~!" Artemis chimed cheerily, and Jack's escape attempts diminished; Jack was so, so easy to convince when it came to her mother's happiness. "And I heard it's Arts and Crafts Day~! It'll be a lot of fun with your cute little friends~!"
"And your crazy cat goddess friend teaching them…" Orion nodded, but remained silent on her head.
With a happy smile, she beamed down at the two little bundles of happiness. She could feel a sense of warmth surging through their hands into her body, and a tiny trace of guilt. As a motherly goddess, she loved nothing more than seeing those young women and children she looked after finding happiness. There were times she committed atrocious acts herself, though seen far different in the eyes of a divine; One included innocent children.
Perhaps it really was power and authority sometimes getting to her head, or that she allowed herself to be too easily swayed to assist. Or maybe it was just what Chiron told her a week ago: That sometimes the messages divines sent and their attempts to guide the world often went too far. Orion's words yesterday struck a chord with her, even if she didn't dwell on it until later.
Would she make another mistake here? Would she somehow destroy such beautiful, profound love she's come to witness in a little family? "You could. That's why you should be careful."
"But I can't help it, Orion… It's in my blood." It was a sad musing, but it was still reality even as a servant. She may not have the overwhelming power and authority she wielded from high Olympus, but the urges were like candy to a child. Even at the risk of terrible consequences, proven time and time again in their era, she must do something. She couldn't sit idle if she wanted to. Artemis was a divine, and it was their nature to ensure all was well from their view.
So she would… Just as soon as she left the children at the classroom. There was a tiny tug on her arm, and she glanced over to a worried Nursery Rhyme. "Goddessmother? Are you okay? You were making a troubled face."
They stopped just before the door as Hundred Face disappeared through it with Yedda. Artemis glanced at Atalanta's two girls and saw equal looks of concern. Though not quite the beaming smile they enjoyed, she smiled at them and nodded. It wasn't a total lie, but she needed a quick cover. "I'm okay… Just thinking about a tragic romance movie I watched last night."
Orion groaned on her head. "The rest was so cheezy though..."
"Tragedies are bad!" Jack quickly complained, and Artemis found herself genuinely giggling at her comment. The young girls smiled up at her as it seemingly shook her from her funk, then dove in for a warm hug. She fell into lighter giggles as she embraced them back and relished in their warmth. Jack rubbed her head into her side. "Thank you for taking us."
"I'd always love a chance~!" She really did. Atalanta was getting an early morning massage with Irisviel, Elsa, and Mata Hari at the resort, so she had the perfect opportunity. She was extra keen on asking about Atalanta's schedule today, but she knew when to be extra cautious while she conducted her personal mission; She wouldn't know about this. Neither would her children. "Now you two behave for Goddess teacher Jagy, okay~? She's crazy, but she's really sweet!"
"Just like you," Orion mumbled, but that only made her smile brighter; It was a genuine compliment she'd gladly take. Artemis made a kissing noise in her mind, and he groaned back. She giggled, but it only made the girls giggle too. Orion waved to them as Artemis floated over to the door. "You two play nice!"
"Thanks Uncle Orion!" they cheered back simultaneously as Artemis stood by the door. With hands on the straps of their backpacks, they rushed inside.
The goddess peaked within the modest classroom, which had far more seats than it should have. By all means, it was just an ordinary looking classroom with the Chaldean aesthetics. The blackboard at the front had all manners of tasks and drawings on it. There was another on one side wall with a bunch of cartoon faces representing each child; They all had cat ears too. At the other was a giant Sunscape window showing a forest lake, coupled with shelves beneath it for various school supplies and books.
Jaguarman sat at a desk at the front corner in a green and yellow striped shirt with a teal dress over the top; She talked to Hundred Face, who was in a white sports bra and matching gym shorts for a morning jog. The children were filling out the front two rows, and just seeing them pull out their little notebooks and writing utensils brought a wonderful feeling of normality to this crazy place; Every week, it was feeling more like a cozy town than an organization.
Jaguarman caught sight of Artemis, and her eyes instantly shined like flaring cameras at a sport stadium. "Artemy! Would nyaah like to have drinks with Boudica, Raikou, and I tomorrow? Right after movie night ends!"
"Sure~! We haven't had a meetup this week~!" She chimed back. In Chaldea, Artemis had made a point to get to know her fellow divines better, and Jaguarman was easily one of her favorites; Schooling just took up so much of her time these days, but they managed. "Should I tell Parvati too?"
"Definitely tell Parvati! Nyaaa~!" Jaguarman practically purred, and they shared one last giggle as she waved goodbye. Not a moment later, Artemis was eagerly, but calmly, floating back to her room. She just had to grab her little purse and begin her personal operation. With the new meetup scheduled then pushed to the back of her mind, her eyes turned focused. It was true she was cheerful, bubbly, and often too energetic, but when she had to get serious, she was no joke.
…Especially not with so many repercussions on the line should she make any little misstep.
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Amongst the fluffy clouds above the resort, the sun played hide and seek with the many guests. It was unusually active for a Monday morning. Servants and some staff on their off days speckled the sandy shores, boardwalk, and marina. However, the forest sector remained unusually baron of forest-walking patrons.
It suited Artemis' mission, even if the reason unsettled and tugged at her heart strings.
By the rocky shoreline, nestled within shrubbery in the shade of majestic palms, she lay perfectly hidden on her belly. She'd donned her battle-attire to keep her dress clean, and wore her second, special concealment cape the inventors were now producing; This one shifted its colors like a Chameleon. It blanketed her perfectly as she kept her hands glued on her binoculars.
She was a Goddess of the Hunt, an unparalleled and experienced master of stalking her respected prey. She held hunting as an art form, and loved every aspect of its tradition. So much so, she gladly used the new innovative tools of the modern hunter, even if it gave an almost dishonorable edge; The ends justified the means in this case. "I still think you're going way too far with this."
Artemis puffed her cheeks and stared at the white chiton wearing Orion beside her, who was concealed perfectly among the branches of the shrubs. He only stared deadpan and sighed. "The concealment cape was enough. Did you seriously have to get the other stuff too? No one is even looking for you-!"
"Shhh! Keep it down, honey!" she whispered as she planted one hand over his mouth. "We've hunted together many times! You know how into it I get!"
"But you look ridiculous!" he shot back over their connected link. It prompted her to look at herself. "Was the ghillie suit really necessary!?"
It was. The cape wasn't enough for her. After some sweet talking, she convinced the Greek and Canadian Sniper Team pair to lend her some camouflage equipment. She's quickly weaved natural fibers and colors into the given netting and painted her face with the gifted body paint; Even what showed of her hair was concealed. It was perfect to let her observe unnoticed! "It's not like anyone is going to come this way!"
"But they could still look because…" She trailed off, and she felt Orion's own uneasiness over their shared link. She reached out with a gentle hand and pet his head, and he touched it with his own palm out of concern for her. She didn't hide it well; The goddess was concerned about what lay behind them too.
Ever since the Avenger duo arrived two days ago, Lobo had taken up residence in the Tropicana Sector and refused to deploy. Anyone who dared approach was met with outright hostility; It didn't even try to communicate with them anymore. All anyone would hear was the angry warning howl, followed by a mock charge to assert its dominance over its chosen dominion. The masters and Chaldean council were still trying to figure out what to do about it, but until then, the forest closer to the cape was to be completely avoided.
Even the wildlife automata, with their designed instincts, dared not approach the wrathful wolf.
It saddened her. As a Goddess of Hills, Forests, and Animals too, she loved the serene balance found within. There was a food chain, and it wasn't always peaceful, but the forests always held a comfortable balance. She even fell in love with the majestic beauty of the Tropicana Sector, where lovely palms and exotic birds presented a unique blend she couldn't find anywhere in the Cyclades. But now it was filled with an imposing dread and stillness, shrouded beneath an imposing cloud of anger.
It was a miracle Lobo wasn't approaching her. The beast's hostility peaked with anyone it understood as a hunter; A Goddess of the Hunt should have enraged it. Instead, the two times she saw him, the wolf didn't even bother her, but glared as it did with everyone. She wouldn't push her luck… not yet, but she wished to do something for the clearly troubled wolf. That would come later, when it was hopefully more approachable.
Until then, she had to address the issues she could. Orion's serious tone sent a tingle of delight down her spine. "I'll keep a watch in case Lobo approaches. You do you."
"Thanks, darling," she whispered with a smile, then began her sweep with her binoculars again.
Admittedly, she got a bit sidetracked in a quick attempt to raise her mood. She lingered briefly over Asterios, Stheno, and Euryale enjoying the butterflies in the flower gardens. She then checked back on the Marina peer, where Ereshkigal, Nitocris, Mashu, and Jeanne were happily playing with the dolphins the saint had befriended. She made one final glance to the outdoor cafeteria, where Semiramis and Carmilla were talking and feeding a variety of birds.
Finally, with her mood partially restored, Artemis narrowed her eyes and focused on the central beach. A volleyball net had been erected for an impromptu game, which Gabrielle and Medb were happily enjoying on a pair of beach loungers; Scathach and Brynhildr just sunbathed on another nearby pair. She didn't pay them any heed, nor most of the handsome men in swimsuits who played volleyball before them. The muscles of the Celtic legends and Camelot knights shimmered in the sun and beckoned like ice cream for most women, but Artemis was focused.
She was also completely attached to Orion; No man would compare to his heart, or his sculpted and glistening form that could make her legs quiv- "I thought you said you were focused!?"
"Let me daydream about your body once in a while!" she huffed back, but kept her eyes glued on the lone outlier among the rainbow of well-fit swimsuits worn by husky stallions.
To even the odds against the four Camelot heroes, led by Arthur, Achilles had joined the Celtic side. Wearing skin-tight jade jammers with gold accents, his muscular form shined brightly even between the equally alluring Cu, Fionn, and Diarmuid. His signature smirk was aimed at the opposition like a javelin; It was tamed with playful enthusiasm for the friendly game.
As the ball flew over the net, he became a blur, and then reappeared in the ball's trajectory to send it to Fergus for a spike. The saber's powerful strike was quickly countered by Gawain as he dove perfectly to intercept. The sand parted and flew in his path, but his brilliant hair and smile were invincible against the debris. Tristan jumped up for a counter spike, and his red hair and matching jammers flared like a swimsuit model for a cover shoot.
It was a ballet of masculine brilliance. Gabrielle and Medb were clapping and hollering as the show continued, earning some appreciative stares their way. Artemis kept a keen eye on Achilles for his reactions, but they appeared more tempered then she thought. It had been going on for twenty minutes, yet he wasn't being a total show off or milking them for attention. She'd seen the Greek Hero plenty of times to know his arrogance and compulsions should have gotten the better of him.
Yet he didn't. He only smiled to the four beauties from time to time, but nothing more. His eyes never lingered as long as Fergus' own, who made a perfect comparison for lustful intent; Perhaps far too much. Achilles could have been subtly eyeing them, but he wasn't from what she saw. His only interest was the friendly game. Not even the goddess-like beauty of a legendary Valkyrie or Celtic powerhouse swayed him.
It confused her to see that from the man who had two lovers, and likely many more sexual relations she never witnessed herself. "Maybe they're not his type?"
"Maybe… But Medb is more of a damsel between the four of them…" Artemis pondered back. They were outright beauties though…
She glanced to Orion in thought, but quickly pouted upon seeing his protective guard had ended. He had a tiny pair of binoculars and was practically drooling at the sunbathing girls. She quickly smacked him on the head and he yelped. "What!? I'm not allowed to ogle the girls but you can stare at the boys!?"
"I'm only watching Achilles! You know this!" she pouted as annoyance flared through her veins. "I thought you were protecting me!"
"I was! But I'm allowed to take a peep too, aren't I- OW OW OW! Artemis stop!" Ashamed and irritated, her task was momentarily forgotten as she pinched Orion's cheeks.
With all the commotion they were making, she remained unaware a few nearby beachgoers sometimes glanced in their direction.
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After the volleyball game and some frisbee, Achilles had opted for a small sunbathing nap on the beach. Artemis kept an eye on him to ensure he hadn't moved, but he seemed perfectly content on a blanket among the Celts, and sometimes scrolling on his phone. From what she saw, it was just sports car gazing though… It gave her a small break after nearly three hours on her belly. Relief flooded through her as she sat amongst the tropical flowers after enduring the tense stillness of Lobo's claimed forest.
She'd quickly taken a shower and changed back to her dress before curiously joining her three fellow Greeks. Just beside her, Asterios was taking a nap on his side with a giant monarch butterfly plushy in his arms. It was clutched dearly to his oversized blue Hawaiian shirt with seagulls. His white swimtrunks had butterflies instead. Euryale and Stheno rested against him in matching simple white sundresses. They shared a book in their hands, and their eyes moved in perfect tandem as they read.
Artemis resisted the urge to hug the cute pair again… if only because it'd wake up Asterios, who looked so, so, sooo cute as some butterflies landed on him.
In her own hands was a little reporter's notebook that flipped open from the top. She'd scribbled her observations so far to note them carefully; She didn't want to make any mistakes. As much as she hated it whenever Orion pointed out the bubbly goddess had the attention span of a goldfish, he was kind of right. Sometimes it even made her forget things, so something as important as her mission needed to be properly recorded.
As stated by her notes, so far her evidence was proving reassuring. Purposeful or not, Achilles wasn't ogling any other women or secretly on a dating app like what Kiyohime was still trying. In fact, the only woman he did eye was Atalanta as she and the other three mothers left the resort after a refreshing spa treatment. He'd waved, shared a smile with her, and even broke from his playmates to share some small talk. It was a bit cute, really, like watching a lovestruck teenager eagerly grasping at time with their crush.
…But she wasn't going to let him off the hook yet. It's been barely three hours into a long-term investigation. She was no Holmes or Touko, but it didn't take a genius to tell her that was far too little evidence. Sometimes it only took as little as a single instance to show someone's hidden colors, like their true intent. Her commitment needed to hold firm and careful, for the sake of her dear devotee and her lovely family. "You really are sexy when you're serious."
She winked towards Orion, who was lounging comfortably in Asterios' puffy hair. "Thanks, darling~!"
The pair of goddesses took note, stared at her curiously, then voiced together. "Secret conversation? Not talking about me, are you?"
"Of course not~! If it was you, you'd know it~!" she sang quietly as she beamed at them. It made the two goddesses shiver and quickly return to their book. She wasn't about to let them escape that easily though. "Sooooo~… you two are taking lessons from Chiron, huh~?"
They flinched and snapped their necks back towards her in surprise. She merely giggled innocently. "Oh, don't worry~… He didn't say anything! I just saw it by accident when I was moongazing a few nights ago~!"
For most, one would expect a flurry of annoyed insults hurled her way; It was typical for the twins who held themselves so highly. Even she was on the receiving end at times, but she held an edge over them they often acknowledged: Servant or not, she was still a real mighty goddess of the pantheon compared to them. But she'd never use that as an edge or harsh reminder of where they stood, but as a comfortable buffer to get closer to the twins.
Whether they liked it or not, Artemis loved getting close to other divines; They were like family! Divine spirits understood each other better than regular humans could, yet they were also human in their own ways. Plus the twins were just so adorable all the time, even with their sadistic tendencies.
With a golden smile, she waited for their answer as they stared at her with flushed embarrassment and irritation. Finally, they conceded with the rarest of look in their eyes never seen save for a choice few: a quiet plea. "Please don't tell Medusa! And you shouldn't just go spying on other, you cow goddess!"
"It was just an accident…" she promised as she folded her notebook and smiled apologetically. "I guess Lobo made it more difficult to pick a better spot."
They sighed together, but Stheno answered. "If we had more of the forest to hide in, maybe you wouldn't have seen us."
"But why? You're pretty good at fighting now. Euryale especially," Artemis asked as the middle sister puffed her chest in a show of individual pride. Stheno only pouted, at her then at the white-haired goddess; She'd personally taught Euryale a few more hunting and archery skills. Artemis only tilted her head and asked gently, "I thought you liked having Medusa and Asterios protecting you two."
"…We do." Euryale's answer was quiet and firm as she placed a hand gently on Asterios' larger arm. "They're a devoted pair of dummies, as they should be. We don't have to lift a finger while they're around. We love them for it… but in Babylonia, then at the final battle…"
Artemis stared as Euryale trailed off insecurely; It tugged at her heart, but made her glance around in wariness. No one was around to see, and Asterios' massive form hid the smaller twins from the boardwalk's view behind him. Stheno fiddled with the coverless book with a displeased, and even ashamed, look. "They protect us, and then they get terribly hurt doing so. It took an hour to calm Medusa down. She thought she failed us again when she couldn't get through Goetia's barrier."
"So we don't want her to worry as much. Not this dummy either," Euryale insisted quietly as she gently ran her hand on Asterios' own. He twitched happily in his sleep with a gentle smile buried into the back of his oversized stuffed butterfly. "Chiron's helping us learn some more defensive moves. We won't be totally helpless if something gets close anymore… and I'm learning a bit more archery from him."
She said it flatly, but Artemis took no offense. She taught Chiron, so whatever extra tidbits he gave to her was a gift from her by extension. Simple logic! It just made her happy whenever the cute but cruel twins took a step for those they cared about; It showed they weren't totally heartless divines. They looked after those they cared for too.
It acted as a bit more fuel for her task, and she smiled delightfully upon hearing it.
Her eyes quickly swung to Asterios as he fidgeted in his slumber, then made Euryale yelp as he readjusted his arms to hug his stuffed animal closer. His action caught the tiny goddess in his embrace too, but the sleeping giant only smiled blissfully as he embraced both warmly. A swarm of butterflies temporarily took flight, then landed back on his form as Artemis, Orion, and Stheno laughed.
Euryale was thrashing wildly and pouting. "You dummy! No! Let me go! I was reading with Stheno! Don't pretend you're asleep dummy!"
Despite her yelling, Asterios didn't stir. He only happily snoozed with the flailing goddess now pinned in his hug. In all the thousands of years they'd known each other, it took this long to finally enjoy the hidden side of the twins. Even as far back as those dangerous times against Sephyr, they were mostly cruel and distant. Yet, just like she'd come to see Sephyr, or its current form as Altera, in a different light, Chaldea did that for the twins too.
Perhaps she'd also come to see Achilles differently after her long investigation was over.
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It had been easy keeping an eye on Achilles for the rest of the morning. After donning Greece's national football jersey and a pair of jeans, he'd only gone fishing with Cu, Angra, and Diarmuid after, but nothing much transpired. He seemed content just to enjoy his time here. After lunch passed, she'd thought she was going to spend her entire day just observing him here doing little to nothing; He wasn't even going for a spar today. She did consider going into spirit form to see if he looked at anything questionable on his phone, but Orion insisted she play it safe.
Just before two in the afternoon, just as she'd gone to the club to get herself a nice cool drink to refresh herself, that's when things turned curious. She'd moved to a window-side booth just to keep an eye on him, but he'd left his borrowed fishing gear by the others. He'd actually come back to the boardwalk, and she was worried she'd been found out… until he stopped by the boardwalk railing and waited with a stoic expression.
Artemis had fallen silent as soon as she saw Hector approach in his battle attire. Even the happy laughter of the children playing board games in the arcade felt mute.
At their distance, she couldn't hear what they were talking about, but she could practically see the tension waving in the air. No weapons were drawn, and she wasn't sure if their words were cutting into each other. With her enhanced vision, it was obvious they were both just keeping straight faces. Yet, hers and Orion's stares remained glued as they shared their Bahama mama drink, just in case things actually erupted.
Save for that one time Hector came up to apologize, they'd actively avoided each other. Even a stare shared between the two sometimes made those nearby flood with concern, yet nothing more ever came from a glance; It was the same sort of tension between Ushiwakamaru and Tomoe. Though they'd walked a tightrope of civility every time, moments like this made her wonder the worst. If Achilles showed different colors and motivations, now would certainly be a time for that.
She just wished she could hear them from so far out- "Hi Artemis! Orion! Aww, you're sharing a drink!"
Her enthusiasm over their little romantic act helped her shift her mood into her ever bubbly and cheery attitude; She wasn't about to reveal her true actions, even to a master. She beamed back to the most enthusiastic of the trio. "Hi, Gabby~! Ready for a fun supply sortie~? …Ohhhh~! New clothes!?"
"Yup! We finally got more variety!" On cue, she spun in place, which sent her black cape-like jacket fluttering like a flag. Crisp in color, it matched her leggings and short shorts, which were likely a modification requested by her. Tangerine cuffs on her boots matched the unique orange formal shirt. However, Artemis was most interested in the silver logo on the jacket's sleeve.
"Wait. Isn't that the Clock Tower's logo?" Orion piped up first, and the master nodded enthusiastically.
"They got jealous. Da Vinci's pretty sure someone from the investigation team caught wind the Vigil was sending over fun toys for us to test out. So they're starting to send some stuff too, but Da Vinci secretly remade this uniform just to make sure they weren't some kind of trap… but don't tell that to Vernier or the others," she winked playfully, then toyed with her jacket. "If it's good enough, they'll start making it with Chaldea's logo! I can't wait to see what this mystic code will help me do!"
"Knowing you? Probably more reckless stuff." Artemis reached over and pinched Orion, but Gabrielle only giggled sheepishly. "What!? It's true!"
"I'm not denying it…" she admitted bashfully, then glanced through the nearby window. "So what were you two looking at…? Wait. Is that Hector and Achilles over there?"
Artemis quickly felt Gabrielle's mood shift, but she was quick to reassure. "They've been talking for a few minutes now. I don't think it's going to escalate."
"Mmm… If you say so…" the master murmured. "He's part of my team. I wouldn't want to have to change that."
"So that's why he's not passed out on a couch…" Orion joked to lighten the mood, and thankfully, their giggles proved it did. Still, after Gabrielle ordered the Pina Colada she came for, they watched the pair as the minutes passed. They too made small talk, but between Gabrielle checking her watch and Artemis idly playing with her phone while secretly studying Achilles, it was unusually sparse for the duo. They'd usually be talking up a storm; It was the expected case when Gabrielle was within arm's reach of any very outgoing individual.
But the minutes swam by, and Gabrielle was getting a bit antsy. Now sitting at the other side of the booth, she finally breathed with relief as Hector and Achilles parted ways without a wave, smile, or thrown fist. Artemis gazed at Achilles as he made his way back down the pier towards his fishing buddies. The smile returned to his face, but he quickly dove for his fishing rod when it started flopping around with a possible trophy on the line. It was a little amusing to watch.
Artemis hadn't even gotten to see what he caught when Hector finally strolled into the cove. He glanced towards them, blinked at Gabrielle, then smiled sheepishly as he walked over. "…Uh… Weren't waiting on me I hope? I'm not late, am I?"
"Nope! We've still got ten minutes before we're supposed to meet downstairs," the master reassured, glanced over to the pier, then back at Hector with palpable concern. There was no doubt he noticed. His smile faded a bit as the master fiddled with her drink's straw. "…Is everything okay?"
"Yeah. It wasn't what I was expecting from that guy…" he offered as he scratched the back of his head. "You want the full reassurance?"
"Yes please," Gabrielle nodded firmly. "We have enough of a problem with Lobo… We don't want anything else to escalate too… I mean! We trust you, and Achilles, and…!"
Hector chuckled and waved it off. "I know what you mean, Gabby. I'm sure my Goddess would like to hear of it too?"
"Maybe~…" Artemis didn't even bother to hide the curious hope in her eyes, which made Hector chuckle. Even before he became a little helper for Atalanta's children, he was one of the champions she sided with: The warriors of Troy. It was partly why she favored Hector so much more than Achilles, but she loved the lancer mostly because he was such an adorably lazy bum when he wasn't forced to get serious. He was that perfect kind uncle for the girls too; She had plenty of pictures of that on her phone! "Was it about the war…?"
But, what she appreciated most, was that when he was serious, he was straight to the point with little frills. He sighed, scratched his head, and frowned a bit. "Of course it wasn't. I doubt that prideful guy will ever apologize for what he and his fellow warriors did to me and my people… but he's not lighting a match or anything, so I don't know what to believe sometimes."
"But you were just defending your city…" Gabrielle noted, but Hector shrugged to confuse her.
"So we were. But that didn't mean we didn't commit atrocities of our own. The only innocents in war are often only those who have never seen it," he stated outright with a frown. "Chaldea got a terrible glimpse of it. Regardless of how righteous the cause, it brings only suffering to both sides. I'm tired of it… Tired of seeing it plague humanity. Why can't we all just have nice naps instead?"
"Some people on the internet are quick to call for it…" Orion noted as he stared at Artemis' sleeping phone. He unknowingly lit a match.
Hector actually, truly scoffed. "Of course. Because the ones hiding behind a screen won't have to do any of the fighting. All they know of war is what a picture or game or movie shows while they lay on a sofa… They're not the sons or daughters ordered to march onto fields of death. They don't know what they're asking for until they're forced to watch the life drain from someone's eyes over and over again. Lives they took for what? The cycle to continue again when the next generation forgets and… and… Sorry. I'm getting preachy…"
Artemis reached over and gently rubbed his arm in reassurance. The Trojan War had raked at his psyche, and she knew it had taken a lot out of him just to apologize Achilles on his day of arrival. But it wasn't quite an apology. Besides acknowledging the wrongs committed by both sides, it was just Hector saying that he's willing to put the past aside should they ever have to fight together; They were both heroes fighting for the same cause now, and that was more important than the animosity he still carried.
The exact words she heard that night still rang so profoundly, "Sorry, Achilles, but don't mistake this civility for forgiveness. I don't think I'll ever like you."
Upon seeing Gabrielle's sad expression, Hector chuckled, then reached over to pat her shoulder. "Ahh… Just the ramblings of an old man, Gabby. I hate war, but I'm still more than willing to fight so others don't have to, so long as the cause is just. Oh, uh, just please don't take my naps away, okay?"
It quickly got a giggle from her. "Okay… but um… if it wasn't the past, what did you two actually talk about then?"
"Jackie and Alice." Now Artemis' attention was completely sold on Hector. She wasn't even making glances to Achilles, who was now being assaulted by a giant floundering sailfish he managed to reel in; His companions were laughing hysterically instead of helping him. She leaned subconsciously in as the lancer crossed his arms. "He's helping them study today. Wanted some tips on what they like and dislike… He even wanted to take more time helping them with schoolwork or babysitting…"
"Time with the girls and wanting to know how to please them…" Artemis mused quietly as Orion glanced to her.
Hector let out a dry chuckle and shook his head. "All without offering anything in recompense at first… That damn guy. Just when I thought I understood him… He's a mess. But we now have a truce when it comes to the girls. They had no part in our past, and they've come to like both of us so… I guess they're our Korean DMZ?"
Though Artemis was further intrigued by the revelation, an intuitive smile was slowly worming its way onto her little lips. Hector stared at her, but she only giggled and shrugged. It made him chuckle genuinely as the master beamed, "Just as long as no one gets into fights, that's all I care about!"
"Wouldn't want poor Okita to get bogged down… She's already on the verge of a nervous breakdown after that video on Thronebook," Artemis mentioned with a happy laugh. Gabrielle snickered as Hector finally popped his signature grin. Even Orion was in a laughing fit. "And they're still trying to deny it~!"
"Well… They're the real confusing ones," Hector commented to fan the mirth's flames.
Artemis agreed wholeheartedly, but silently passed another inquisitive glance at the growing enigma that was Achilles.
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Her stomach was sore; As a servant it shouldn't have been. It still felt that way after hours spent observing the trio from the forest. Achilles had dutifully been helping the girls, though by the looks of it, he seemed just as lost as them at times. The girls didn't seem to mind. If anything, Jack and Nursery Rhyme laughed whenever he tried to look smart with an answer that clearly wasn't right.
Artemis had never expected the rider to have so many facial expressions… even after the glimpses she saw during Shinjuku which were projected in the theater.
However, she still laid in her chosen bush, in her overdone concealment cape and ghillie. Quietly, with binoculars in hand, she watched the trio in the flower gardens with assorted schoolbooks. There was even some tea laid out for them, which Achilles drank with them. He didn't seem to enjoy tea much by the looks of it. "If he doesn't, he's hiding it really well for them."
"Yea, he is…" Artemis mumbled back. Her notepad laid open beside her again, but still, her notes consisted mostly of funny moments. Dinner was fast approaching, but there didn't seem to be any condemning act in his agenda. He was genuinely looking after them, even if he was definitely far, far from knowing what he was doing. She had to admit: It was definitely cute.
But quite a few of the facial expressions stuck out. Some seemed a bit forced or awkward, and she didn't know what to make of it. Still, she noted it for later. Perhaps she'd see more in the investigations tomorrow. What she did know is she might need to find better tools to help gather info discreetly. Maybe the Vigil recon team had some secret espionage tools she could borrow.
She sighed. If only her phone could just zoom in more for pictures, or let her listen to what they were talking about…
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Again, she was glad to be back in her dress after a quick shower. She was even happier it was food time. Salon de Marie was always so regal and lovely, she couldn't help but compliment Marie every single night; The queen never tired of hearing it. "Enjoy your dinner, Artemis!"
"You too, Marie~!" she offered back as she floated gracefully towards her seat for the evening. She tossed a wave to the excited Romans and Egyptians, then skirted her way past the growing number of Japanese tables before finding one of the smaller booths. These had a special little candle and were often used by couples for dates. Each one could sit four at most, but tonight, she only had another companion to keep her and Orion company; She usually sat with the single mothers.
"I was wondering if I was stood up after you invited me this afternoon," Chiron joked lightly from across the white-linen table. He filled out his white polo well, and his hair was combed to perfection. Artemis giggled as she plopped Orion carefully onto the table beside her, then graciously sat down. "What were you two up to today?"
"Oh, just catching up on some romance movies~! My collection is growing faster than I can watch!" She had to be very careful about her little lies around Chiron. He may not be Karna, but he was very keen after teaching so many students. He'd been an exceptionally intuitive student when she taught him things too; Any misstep, and he might find a hole. "Have you heard of Definitely Maybe? Ryan Reynolds is such a dreamboat! Oh, but he's no match for my honey~!"
"As I am now, he might be…" Orion admitted glumly, but mostly in jest. Artemis reached over to rub his little head affectionately. "You need to save me from this romcom hades."
"I'm afraid I don't know how to do that," the other archer commented, then nodded to a robot that brought over a steaming basket of garlic bread. She took the opportune moment to glance around at her surroundings to find her target. To her confusion, the man in question and her devotee were not in the area. It was only when she gazed back towards the way she came did she spot them; That was problematic. She was hoping those two would be in the smaller booth section.
"Uh… Artemis…?" Instead, they, along with Arash, had chosen to sit at the bar for their impromptu meeting. It made sense, really. Quetzalcoatl and Parvati may be with the children tonight, but the mothers would still like to keep an occasional eye on their kids. With a serene gaze to her kids, Atalanta looked adorable in her white off-shoulder blouse and jean short shorts. "Hey… Artemis?"
Arash's teal polo looked nicely fitted to him, especially tucked into his khakis. Achilles had changed into a black collared shirt and simple jeans between them. Mata Hari, still working the bar, was leaned against the bar and talking with the three of them, but they occasionally peered towards the children at a distant table. Realizing she may have stared too long, she glanced back to Chiron…
Who was staring right at her with a small smile. Orion sighed, "I tried to warn you."
"Oh! How rude of me! Sorry, I was just looking at Altera and her new dress!" Her cover was hastily acquired, but she put on a perfect act. "I still can't believe a titan could wind up being such a cute little saber who wants to experience life! Could you? Oh, but I already talked your ear off about that weeks ago!"
Chrion only continued to stare right at her and smile. He was silent, and his eyes glinted with mirth. Artemis beamed back as the seconds passed. Finally, she relented with a pout. "Okay! Okay! I'm just worried about her, you know! Can't I be worried about her!?"
"Of course you can," Chiron finally commented and laughed. "She made a vow to you, and you're concerned about her keeping it. Which is being challenged by my student."
"It's a vow to a goddess. I do want her to keep it… but I want to see her happy too." Artemis prodded her fingers together innocently and glanced back to Atalanta. There was no mistaking the small smile on her face as she glanced to Achilles, who was currently joking around with Arash. "I'm just worried. I don't want that smile to be ruined. What Amakusa told me of the last war only made me more worried, and that's not even considering Achilles or… Ohhhh, I can't help it, Chiron! A motherly goddess like me just has to get involved! I have to make sure!"
"Please don't stress yourself, Artemis. You're not wrong," he assuaged with a smile. "You're also not alone in worrying about her."
"Of course not. I don't even know how Jackie and Alice would react if…" She trailed off when she saw Chiron shaking his head. "…Huh?"
"I didn't mean the kids. I meant Achilles." She blinked, and he quickly glanced over to his distant student, then their surroundings, before leaning in. "If Achilles ever asks, I said nothing, okay? What I'm about to say is from his mouth... He's scared."
Artemis blinked. "Achilles the invincible. Scared?"
"He's a fearless fighter, through and through. But he's clueless when it comes to a quieter life. All he's ever known was fleeting ecstasy of combat and pleasure. His time hidden in Skyros hardly counts," Chiron pointed out with a gentle smile. "That's why he's scared. He's afraid of ruining something he doesn't understand. He doesn't want to be the one destroying a beautiful dream a glory-hunting hero like himself would never think of in his past life. That's why he's been coming to me for new guidance."
Enlightened, she stared at Chiron, before carefully glancing back at Achilles again. He looked as confident and mighty as ever, even as he joked. However, every time she saw him turn his gaze to Atalanta, it lost something. The sharp arrogance gave way to a fond gentleness. It was a bit awkward and unaccustomed, but he tried, and she only took full note of it carefully observing him with the girls today. But it was the same. Only now did it make sense.
Achilles wasn't putting on an act: He was struggling on a tightrope he'd never treaded before.
"Yea. I can see that. He can solo an angry Lobo into submission, but gods forbid he has to change a diaper." Artemis and Chiron shared a chuckle at Orion's flat out description. He merely shrugged. "I mean, it's true, right? He's discovered a new weakness and is floundering around like a fish."
"But he seems to be trying…" Artemis nodded slowly as she turned her gaze away from him. It failed to register that she may have given something away with that honest mumbling. "Hmm… Thank you, Chiron. I was trying to avoid bias but… divines do make mistakes with interpreting things."
"Certainly," he added, but not out of offense. "It's up to you whether you want to believe it or not, but I thought you should know. She's your devotee, and he wants to court her… correctly. I just hope this little meeting wasn't just using me so you could spy on their second meetup in a row."
Artemis blinked, then flushed with total embarrassment and guilt. Chiron only chuckled at her calmly as Orion slammed a furry palm over his face. "No, no, no, no! I wasn't! I mean that was part of it but that definitely wasn't! I like spending time with you! You know that Chiron! Right? Right?"
"I'm only joking, Artemis. I know it wouldn't be just that," he reassured. "I'll keep an eye on them for you since my seat is a better facing. I'll tell you if there's something interesting."
Still embarrassed, she prodded her fingers together again but beamed. "Thank you~! …Oh, but enough about them then. That'd be too rude! How was your day? Or week? Do anything fun and exciting besides teaching Euryale and Stheno some fun moves?"
He narrowed his eyes playfully at her and smirked. "Ah. Spying on me too, Artemis?"
"Wait! No, that's not…!" He only laughed heartily as she fell flustered again. With a pout, she quickly snatched a breadstick from the basket and bit into it to sooth her nerves.
"To answer your question, yes, actually," he began as he also took a breadstick for his plate. "Scathach and I have been talking about organized training sessions for servant teamwork. Chaldea used to have some unorganized ones, but they fell out of practice for simple spars. We're aiming to fix that, together."
"You two sure are spending a lot of time together," she mused happily, and he nodded plainly.
"We're both immortals. Or I was, I should say. We've got plenty to talk about besides teaching," he explained calmly. "Our teaching styles blend together pretty nicely. Not that we don't argue about it from time to time, but that's nothing a quick spar doesn't fix."
She hummed as she gave a breadstick to Orion. "So that's your main hobby now, is it? Becoming a teacher again? I thought you'd pick up something else too."
"I do love learning, so that might count? Some of these modern-day documentaries can be very detailed. I've been most interested with theories of interstellar travel and astronomy… and yes, before you ask, the thought of travelling to my own constellation did pass through my mind."
She giggled. "Oh? Do tell more! I Humans actually reaching the stars was such a strange thought back then! Icarus' little fall made so many shy away from flying."
"But that certainly didn't stop modern heroes like Neil Armstrong," Chiron pointed out with a smile. "It makes me wonder what the age of Space Exploration will bring. Maybe something crazy like Interstellar… Have you heard of that movie?"
It was easy for them to fall away into lively chatter, especially with so much to talk about these days. Before she knew it, the goddess had pushed aside her current task; Chiron's reassurance helped with that. For now, only warm, old company nested in her thoughts, fed by vibrant dinner conversation.
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They'd been so swept up in their whirlwind of conversation that they wound up staying a lot longer than most. Achilles left the bar minutes ago with Arash, and Atalanta had departed before then with the children. Chiron and Artemis ended it soon after since he had a small planning session with Scathach and Lord El-Melloi II. It was only then that her urges to observe the rider returned with full force.
As she floated around the hallways, acting as naturally as possible, she quietly planned tomorrow's leg of her investigation. She had to be careful how she asked some women around Chaldea if they had any run-ins with the Greek Legend. She couldn't be obvious about it, nor leave a trail of clues. "Why not try Medea first? She might be more cooperative since Atalanta is her friend."
"Maybe…" Perhaps she should. There was a lesser-known tale about her and Achilles getting married in the Elysian Fields, but as a goddess, she would've known about a big detail like that; They would've made a mention too. It was likely just a passed rumor or tall-tale. There were plenty of those, but it wouldn't hurt to ask-
"Looking for me?" More like he found her.
Startled, Artemis froze and was shaken from her mental plans. They just entered the Agora's square, and she turned towards the nearest wall. Achilles casually leaned in the doorway with a calm stare that revealed almost nothing. His arms were crossed, but that's how they were more often than not. He didn't seem tense, but she could feel it in his words spoken only moments before. She's fallen silent as she stared back equally as calm, but he was the one to talk after their small pause.
"I know you've been watching me all day. You weren't as subtle as you thought."
"I told you the ghillie was too much…" She didn't bother to acknowledge Orion's comment.
The jig was up, but that only meant she'd get right to the point. "Are you surprised I am? You should know why."
He let out a small, quiet breath and nodded. "I'm a Greek Warrior. I'm used to the divines trying to have a hand in everything. That would only make sense because of how much Atalanta means to you. So I just hope everything you saw was to your liking."
"For now…" she noted as she checked the empty hallway, then turned to face him fully. "But you've just raised some doubt. You knew I was watching. How do I know some of this wasn't careful acting?"
"You think I could do that without being obvious? You and the other divines probably saw how well I managed that at Lycomedes' court…" he chuckled quietly with a shake of his head.
She had to try really hard not to giggle at that thought. Achilles, dressed as a woman, but with all the mannerisms of a teenage boy; Chiron's teachings couldn't have prepared him for that. But she managed to keep a straight, serious face to send a message. Even though it all seemed genuine and real, and Chiron's words gave her hope, her doubts remained. Realizing his joke failed, Achilles stared at her, then sighed.
"…Goddess Artemis. I'm not some mastermind like Moriarty. I can't deceive or trick anyone like Mephistopheles. I'm just a proud warrior. That's all I'm good at," he began honestly as he pushed himself off the wall to stand firmly before her. "And honestly that's what worries me. That I'm just not good enough for her and the kids. That coward Hector would make for a better father than me. At least he knows how to be a good one from his past life…"
There was much to be desired if he was trying to convince her. His tone was a bit too forward for trying to humble oneself before greatness. His stance was far from prostrating, and would come across as outright confrontation to her brother or father. Even his calm but neutral demeanor was far from what the vast majority were like when begging before the gods… but that was just how Achilles always was.
She didn't know if she'd be more suspicious or not if she saw something else. "It would've helped prove his resolve, for sure."
Orion was right. The great Achilles prostrated before her, asking to be granted her blessing… That would've shown he would do everything and toss aside his pride for a chance with Atalanta. But the words he spoke snagged her more than his ever-proud bearing. It opened a window Chiron had only hinted at.
So she said nothing but listened, as a proper impartial deity should. "I feel like I'm fumbling around in the dark about all this. My teacher has been giving me a lot of advice, but it feels so much harder than learning how to fight. I guess I'm just destined to be a warrior and that's it, huh?"
"You don't know that," Artemis impulsively offered. He stared into her eyes again, and she finally saw it up close. Those eyes of hardened steel that fought countless battles now twinkled with that glimmer she never dared to believe Achilles could have until today.
Nervousness. Uncertainty. Discomfort. Even fear.
It made his painting of a painful acknowledgement of his shortcomings genuine. There was no art or deception. That much was clear to her. Achilles glanced around the still empty hallway, then made a tiny shrug of his shoulders, like a child. She prompted him further, "But you're trying, aren't you? Because you look up to her."
"I'd be disrespecting her if I didn't give my all. That's the last thing I want to do to someone I looked up to for as long as I can remember," he insisted firmly as Orion quietly kept a lookout for both of them. "My father wasn't the best story teller, but whenever he recalled events with her stuck out in my mind. The hunt for the fleece, the Calydonian boar… I was so happy I was given a chance to meet Atalanta in that other war I tried to make the most of it all."
"She told me what happened, and how it ended." Her face was still but solemn.
He let out a slow breath. "Jackie's her daughter now. I guessed you knew even before she told me."
It was very rude and indifferent to just throw it out there like that, but she needed to see how he'd act about that terrible ordeal. "She said she only saw glimpses… What did you see?"
"…I try not to think about it…" He continued, but his small frown and eyes fell to the wayside in thought, "…I didn't want to see her like that, you know? I'd rather face her cold shoulder or annoyance for centuries rather than see that madness strangle her again. She looked so… broken. It was wrong. I hated seeing her falling so I had to do something. But all I could do was defeat her as fast as I could so she'd suffer less… If I was smarter maybe I could have figured something else out. Something less painful. Something more heroic…"
The missing pieces from Atalanta's side finally fell in her lap. Seeing Achilles genuinely bothered was engraved in her mind. He was troubled, but it was because of what had happened to her. Suddenly, his tears in their final moment and his spoken words were no longer rough foundation, but a full castle. And there was that surprising glimpse in his self-admonishment; He believed the only thing he could do with his shortcomings, and not that he did all he could.
Achilles, one of the mightiest of Greece, was a lot deeper than she previously believed. Her serious expression held. "You're surprisingly hard on yourself."
"I hope you're not going to tell Cu or Li about it… I won't hear the end of it," he joked lightly with a tiny smile; It was a bit forced since his eyes still glinted with painful memory. It only further bolstered her newfound impression of him.
"I'm not Marie, so you have the goddess' word on that." Quietly, she considered her options, then decided to point out something, if in part to hear what she wanted. "You know, Achilles… There's more to being a hero than just fighting."
"My teacher told me that a week ago," he nodded in agreement, though it didn't look like he really understood it by his previous words.
"Guess you're not the only one who's oblivious…" She refrained from slapping Orion on that one to hold her divine poise. "…It'll come later, won't it?"
"And you're following on it from what I've seen, whether you realize it or not." She also had to refrain from smiling lightly at his partially confused expression. So he really didn't know then. Though she turned to leave, she gazed back at him. "Jackie and Alice have taken a liking to you. You helped them have lots of fun in a terrible place like Shinjuku."
"She wasn't there, so someone had to. Medb hates children so…" He neglected to point out Gabrielle was especially great with the pair, and would have easily been better. Yet, he was the one who was often catering to them that time. It was getting harder for Artemis to hold back her smile. "They helped give her such a bright smile, and they're nice kids too. They're like the first signs she can help make that beautiful dream of hers real."
"And you understand being part of my devotee's life means being a big part of theirs too, do you not?"
"Absolutely." She liked the firmness and lack of hesitation in his response. "I'd never forgive myself if all of them lose that happiness they found because of me, so I'm walking on eggshells. I don't know what I'm doing half the time but… they're so forgiving. It makes me a little warier, honestly. I want to be with Atalanta, and I want to help Jackie and Alice too, but sometimes I often feel like they're giving me too many chances while I'm making so many mistakes."
…So it was confirmed for herself. Though he didn't see it in his own words, she'd seen it for herself. The thoughts of further investigation sank slowly in her mind. She could no longer hide the tiny, amused smile aimed his way, which only served to surprise and confuse him. It was cute really. He was so used to being the embodiment of the warrior hero, that he didn't realize he was well on his way to becoming a hero of a different kind: The hero Atalanta and her family would love to have.
"You have my blessing." Though not as cheerful as her usual enthusiasm would offer, the sweet words on a gentle platter confused him completely. It came with a small lemon slice. "I'll be watching you, Achilles. I'm as much a part of their family too, so if you do anything to make her or the girls cry…"
"Then I'll accept your wrath without resistance." Again, another firm and unhesitant response with a stare filled with agreement. She liked that.
With only a warm smile, and a nod in farewell, Artemis floated away on higher notes than she expected earlier today.
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Moongazing was one of her favorite activities; If only the forest wasn't as foreboding, she'd stare from her favorite spot among the trees. Instead, she opted for a fairer alternative. With her high heels beside her, she dangled her legs at the end of the marina dock while the many boats bobbed in the tiny waves nearby. Orion was already asleep against a post where two seagulls had made a little nest.
She sighed blissfully as she gazed up at the waxing gibbous with her invited companion. "I wonder why Jagy gave them the day off tomorrow… Do you know?"
"I thought you would have asked. You're such close friends." Artemis turned to her devotee, who dangled her own feet in the waves with a calm smile. "She hasn't told us anything."
"Ohhh, a mystery~! Let's hire Holmes, or ask his new little Watson! Time is ticking!" Her declaration made Atalanta chuckle.
"Mashu working with her idol… I hope it helps ease her," the green-haired archer agreed softly as she glanced to the waters. A dolphin momentarily stuck its head out of the water to stare at them before disappearing back under the surface. The two glanced to each other, blinked, then giggled. "I guess it was looking for Jeanne."
"She almost had them to jump through a hoop today!" Artemis explained, making her devotee turn to her inquisitively. The goddess smiled. "Sorta. It was more like one would get stuck and race off. She'd try and call it back. It was like watching one of those roadrunner cartoons… Hm. I wonder if that's what the little sugar plums are watching tonight?"
"It's a slumber party. Could be anything or everything. They were starting Frozen when I left."
Artemis giggled. "Poor Elsa. Looks like the children will finally be making the jokes to her too."
"She told me she's going to dress the part for Halloween. Little Gio is going to be dressed like Olaf."
"Awwww~! Really? I can't wait to see that!" Artemis shrilled, and made Orion fidget in his sleep. She reached over apologetically and rubbed his tummy. He hummed pleasantly in his sleep, making her giggle. Atalanta merely watched with a tiny smile.
It had taken a bit, but her devotee had grown used to her antics. Artemis took on a serious air every now and then just to reassure she was still a goddess to be respected and feared. But it all worked out anyway. Atalanta was glad she could be such a caring and loving goddessmother for her kids, and she ensured that her devotee would always feel comfortable with her too. She'd remain her guardian, and even warm family she could depend on in times of need.
That included talking about almost anything, whether casual or important. Feeling upbeat and happy with the recent turn of events, Artemis gazed to Atalanta with a fond smile. The other archer stared back, looked herself over, then tilted her head. "What is it?"
"Oh, nothing… Just wondering how happy you are with everything."
"So your daily question," Atalanta smiled back and giggled. "Well… Jackie's asking for more stuffed animals again if that can count as my only complaint."
"Your wallet can handle it, so no, it doesn't," she shut down, but they both giggled. "And your second little date?"
Atalanta glanced to her, then shook her head slightly with a barely diminished smile. "That one wasn't a date. Just a meetup… I still want to get to know Achilles better before I decide."
"Just curious, that's all~…" she hummed back, but she didn't miss the fleeting glimpse of appreciation in Atalanta's eyes when she mentioned his name. "If you need me to put up a wall, just say the word~! No lady killers are going to claim my devotee like a trophy!"
"I'll be sure to call if I need you, but I can handle myself," she smiled back, but Artemis picked up the underlying message she hid. Artemis knew she'd been perplexed about what she thought of him thanks to that large and chaotic war, but the recent singularity painted him differently. Though part of her still wanted Atalanta to keep the vow, by the way things were going, that wasn't going to be the case.
If anything, Artemis was now hoping it did break.
As they fell into calm silence as they moon gazed, Artemis glanced at her devotee through her peripherals. She'd grown into such a proud and beautiful woman. She'd become such a caring mother, even if she spoiled her little darlings too much. If there was any greater heights Atalanta could reach, Artemis could now see that Achilles may be the one to help her do it. He could turn out for the better in turn, but there was no rush. Time would tell.
The Greek Goddess would just ensure those smiles would turn out as beautifully as she could hope.