I can't see the new reviews on Sea&Fire :/ Or rather, I can. I see the gmail notifications but if I go in to the app itself, I can't see it. Can someone send a review to TofT before I get a heart attack and panic? I panic very easily.
And Kitsune, nothing happened to me yesterday. I'm just scatterbrained.
Spring had arrived in Kydria. Colours dot the once pristine white lands and life blooms. Animals awaken from their sleep, ready to hunt.
In the gardens of a luscious city, Ephicca, a couple dance among the growing flowers. The palace was covered in opulent decorations, majestic and enchanting, lighting up the beauty of its walls.
The palace walls were adorned with banners, flags, and pennants in vibrant colours, fluttering in the breeze. Intricate floral arrangements and garlands embellish the entryways and corridors, filling the air with the sweet scent of blossoms.
Torches, lanterns, and fairy lights illuminate the castle grounds, casting a warm and magical glow, alive after the wake of winter.
It was a day to be celebrated. Not just the arrival of spring, but it marked the first century of the rebirth of their goddess, Adira.
Ephicca's people celebrated the day. They eagerly awaited the sun to set and the moon to illuminate. For when the palace gates would open for them all and they celebrate their goddess as a whole. At the head of the table, overlooking the citizens of Ephicca, the queen herself sat. He will never be there, but there will always be a seat next to the queen's. Forever empty.
Yet the sun still shone brightly above their heads, and Aristorine danced freely in the gardens she had taken care of for centuries since the start of her reign.
As she twirled without a care for the world, Lysander caught her hand, pulling her close. They shared a kiss, hidden from all.
She pulled away first, stepping away from his arms, teasing as he tried to catch her again. She slipped from his grasp, daring him to chase her.
Lysander was not one to dissuade his love of her games. A knowing smirk flashed and Aristorine pivoted on her heels, running through the garden.
Just a game to them. Aristorine will run, and Lysander will chase and they will continue this game for millennia to come.
Before Ephicca can get a king, and Chalárosi a queen, the game must be won. That was the promise they made, and neither would break their promise.
The game did not stop until Olympus fell. Aristorine will never allow herself to fall into Lysander's arms, never getting out, until Zeus himself is at her goddess's feet, begging for mercy. Lysander will never force her to do otherwise.
On and on and on they went. A dare in Aristorine as she held her hand out tauntingly. Lysander will forever reach for her hand. She will always take off, leaving him in the dust. Just a game to them.
This day in particular, Aristorine made it to the doorway, slamming it in Lysander's face before collapsing on the ground laughing.
She didn't lock the door, but Lysander didn't try to open it. Instead, she heard him sliding down and sitting on the ground. She leaned back, resting her back against the wood. She liked to imagine he did the same, pressing her palm against the smooth surface.
"Anyone there?" Lysander called out, out of breath.
Aristorine checked the hallways. Even if there was anyone, it wasn't very likely they would care. She and Lysander have done this hundreds of times.
She tugged her heels off, throwing them into a dark corner, relishing the feeling of her feet against marble as she responded, "Nah."
A sudden knock on the door had her jumping. "Well, Lissa is asking for me. She may have retired, but she cares more about this royalty thing than me. I have to go prepare for the feast."
"As do I." Aristorine reached up, taking her crown off. She ran a hand through her hair, mussed up and tangled from their little game. Her handmaidens will throw a fit over this. Poor girl. Aristorine may have worked her over the edge. "I should be off now."
"One last kiss?" Lysander asked. Aristorine could hear the longing, the hunger. He tried not to show it. Tried not to tempt her.
Too late for that.
Aristorine got to her feet, sweeping her hair to one side before pulling the heavy doors open. Lysander was leaning against it and nearly fell on his back. She didn't allow that, bending over to grab the collar of his shirt and connecting their mouths together for one, sweet second.
Before Lysander even reacted, she had stepped away, beaming. "Be a good lover, and I might just tell you some news." She murmured, watching with lidded eyes as he clambered up to his feet.
"Oh?" He asked breathlessly, mimicking her previous actions, his crown hanging on his arm as he combed his hair to the best of his abilities. "How do I do that?"
She didn't give him an answer, snaking one arm around his waist, until it rested on the back of his neck. With one, sharp, precise move, they were suddenly kissing all over again.
Perhaps he was used to this now, because Lysander didn't question it, his mouth moving instinctively, kissing Aristorine back like it was the last time they ever did this.
A century, ten decades ago, Aristorine met this man and made an important decision. She doesn't regret it, doesn't regret taking up her throne once more.
She loved exploring the outlands, seeing humanity with her own eyes. She loved being important to Adira, loved that she could do something to help bring the Τελευταία one step closer to their victory.
It had nothing to do with the war, per se, but Aristorine knew that those houses she built were saving lives. With everything an average human being needed, it was built to help house them for a few days before they had to be off.
They served as bases, places for spies the Τελευταία sent out to rest for a while before continuing their duties to their leaders. Aristorine loved that she could help them out.
That job was left to Anastasia now, Marpessa of Aeternita's niece. Has been for the past fifty years. She loved to explore. Loved it ever since she subbed in for Aristorine to return to Kydria.
Sure, Aura teased her mercilessly for leaving something she loved for a man she knew for one day. Even she could not deny that she enjoyed having Aristorine back again. Now they just need Isadora to finish her 3 century training, and they will be a trio once more.
No, Aristorine thought giddily, we will be more.
Lysander was the one to break the kiss, pulling away from her, but not by too much. He rested his forehead against hers. "How was that?"
"Perfect." Everything about this man is perfect.
His voice turns teasing. "So now will you tell me the news?"
Aristorine took his hand, running a finger through the lines on his palm contemplatively. Should she or should she not?
In the end, she decides that he deserves to know.
She directs his hand to her stomach. Lysander's smile dropped.
It was pretty funny how quickly his expression changed. Like Aristorine had just told him that she was committing treason to Adira.
He wasn't oblivious, he knew what was going on. "Are you serious?" Amber eyes searched for her blue ones. "Is this another one of your pranks, Ari?"
"Guess." She murmured. "Is this a prank?"
Whatever he found, he must have liked it. When Aristorine removed her hand, his remained, pressed against her stomach. His face split into a beautiful smile, wide and joyous. "I'm gonna be a dad."
The pure, childish wonder coming from him almost made Aristorine forget what she needed to say next. Almost.
"One condition," Aristorine said. Lysander waited, never faltering in his happiness. "Adira is to be the godmother."
"Was there ever a doubt?" Came Lysander's immediate answer.
And yeah, Aristorine is once again reminded why she loves this man so much.
—
"Good for you, girl!" Aura playfully nudged Aristorine before taking her seat next to Adira. They deliberately ignored Isadora's seat. Qilin wasn't here yet but they hated seeing her empty seat. Isadora used to always be the first one to reach Ethearos when it came to their monthly meetings. Aristorine had just shared the news of her pregnancy. "Honestly, the only thing I did not expect was for it to take this long. Amidst all that running and chasing, there were bound to be moments of rest. I will be your maid of honour once he puts a ring on your finger, right?"
"Who says he will be the one to do it?" Aristorine asked. Even with all this teasing, Aristorine knew Aura meant well. "Maybe I want to do it." When the time comes. Not that it will for a long time.
"Either way." Regina cut in, leaning forward, twisting her fingers together. "You exclude any one of us, the wedding may not have a bride." She smiled sweetly. "Just a piece of sisterly advice."
Seeing as Aristorine grew up with Starra, she knew that Regina was joking. To a certain extent. Someone was going to die if she didn't include them.
Not like she was going to exclude them to begin with. She already knew what her fellow sisters would do at her wedding.
"Girls." Adira cleared her throat, ceasing all conversation. Everyone turned to her expectantly.
Distantly, Aristorine noted how Adira said 'girls' even though Lysander and Marcus were kings of their states, and Iphianna usually let her husband, Dorian, take her seat during Council Meetings. (She always claims she's too busy but everyone knew she hated such meetings. Reminded her of her old village) Were they not here today?
The thrones of Charí, Chalárosi and Imbreion were empty, as well as Lissanthus. As always, Eretheucia was empty as well. Aristorine wondered if that was why Adira called them here today. To finally occupy the seat that has been empty since Mimira left centuries ago.
"Lysander is with Melissa." Aristorine found herself saying. "Preparing for next week, marking the day Chalárosi was found."
Aura nodded, slipping into business mood. "Marcus is busy as well." She informed Adira, who barely reacted to their words. Aristorine wondered where Adira was today. Last month, she was soaring through the sky with her brother, transformed into a dragon. "Some stupid idiot decided to flirt with Cassidy. You know how Marcus is, despite being a century old. He forever views Cassidy as his baby sister. Unfortunately, that means the idiot is suffering under Marcus's wrath right now."
That was far more common than not. Most of the time, Marcus would arrive at Ethearos with his knuckles bruised, maybe blood on his suit. Adira nodded, unphased. Her finger twitched, resting on her throne's armrest. Now Aristorine was more curious, itching to know.
Not in the sky, that was for sure. Her powers escaped her when she was in the sky, making the room cold. Aristorine was sweating. Perhaps with Erin. She was always calmer then.
Regina adjusted herself until one leg rested on the other. "No word from Imbreion. Dorian probably forgot. Which reminds me, time is hard to tell. We really should put more time into… what is it called again?"
"A calendar." Aisha supplied, tapping her fingers in time to an invisible rhythm. Her skin started slipping into her true, water nymph form, but she caught hold of herself before she turned completely. "And we are studying it, but the process has been slow these days. Cynthereia and I have been discussing it but she is in Elacia, and I am here. Communicating is very difficult as it is."
"If anyone can do it, it would be Cyn." A rare smile bloomed on Adira's face. Once, such adoration would have made Aristorine seethe with jealousy. Now she knows that no matter how much Adira cares for someone, it pales in comparison to them. "Keep up the good work, Aish. The sooner we do this, the better. It will help a lot of people."
Aisha nodded, her mouth pressed into a determined line. Aristorine knew the calendar project just got pushed into the priority list.
The only reason it has gone on for so many years is because no one paid extra attention to it.
"He's with her…" Adira mussed, her eyes fading into white before returning to its natural sea-green. She's been doing this far more often than not, especially when she gets into moods like this. Aristorine doubted she knew what she was doing.
It was an act only Gods could do. Aristorine absolutely despised the current Gods, but if her queen actually became a goddess, she knew that the title of 'Gods' would finally return to its glory.
Good Immortals. Better than the Titans, more approachable. Kinder.
That is what Aristorine has been told about the Gods by her mother. She knows now that isn't true but it could, if the Τελευταία ascended.
"Who, Aiónia?" Aura asked, reaching out her hand in concern.
Shaking her head, Adira gazed around the room before her eyes landed on Aisha. "Call Hazel and Frank." She commanded, her fingers flexed. Aristorine closed her eyes as bursts of lightning fell off Adira. It always got like this, even before she died. More power than her body could contain. She loses control and that power comes rushing out. "Meeting is over. Get them here."
"Should I tell them anything?" Aisha was already on her feet.
Adira hesitated. "Arion."
"He's beautiful." Hazel gasped, reaching a shaking hand out as if she wanted to pet the little foal. Before her hand made contact, she froze, throwing Frank a panicked look. "What if he only loves me from our timeline?" Her bottom lip trembled. "Frankie!"
The last part was because Adira and Frank were trying not to laugh out loud at Hazel's distress but each time they looked at each other's face, it didn't help.
It wasn't their fault. It's been seven centuries, but seeing their precious Hazel act so nervously brought forth something they hadn't felt since before they arrived in the past.
Arion whined, trying to get on his feet. Hazel's attention was instantly on him once again. "Oh, sweetie. Here, hold on… there we go…"
From the doorway, Cynthereia made a sound of fascination. Roy of Askyria had to hold her back so that she wouldn't get in the way of their queen fussing over her little 'baby'.
Horses haven't been introduced to their realm, you see, and Cynthereia is constantly curious and wants to learn more. The Elacian Council are used to having to hold her back from time to time.
Rex of Pílinos was also there, quietly trying to dissuade the stubborn girl. It didn't work. If his aunt, Neaera, the true ruler of Pílinos was here, she would know. Alas, she was busy out there, trying to save nature and he was here, with three years of knowledge. Not enough to help the situation.
From behind Hazel, Adira wondered if anyone was going to notice that Demeter had a child with Poseidon. She doubts so. Even Demeter herself was too infatuated with Persephone to ever realise they were even there, let alone that they stole her child.
Hazel was cooing to Arion, helping him to his feet. It took a couple of tries, but he got it.
Seeing this, Adira clapped politely, her smile genuine. "Welcome to Elacia, dearest brother." Then, to Frank, she said, "I am never calling him that ever again."
A glass bottle shattered. Achaia yelled in frustration, throwing her arms up.
The shard of Allagi started to glow red, reminding Frank of his disowned father, before he came to his senses, erecting a shield.
Just in the nick of time as well. The windows—those beautiful French windows Achaia spent years designing—shattered, its shards falling inwards. If he hadn't reacted, it could have cut them. Quite severely.
He then waved his hand, melting the glass until it pooled at their feet, sweeping it up and vanishing it.
Achaia was fuming, her entire body trembling. From the side, Frank could once again admire the beauty of the chosen ruler of Halonia.
She was beautiful, from the moment he saw her in the castle. The castle of the old king of her city.
Dressed in the finest chiton, her hair combed back to reveal the olive skin and silver eyes. Frank the cat had seen her. Amidst hundreds of other women, she had been the one he saw, hiding in a shadow while the women swayed and danced, trying to attract the attention of a man twice their age.
Achaia had been the smart one. Frank had intended to kill the king and bring the entire city down with a clean swing of his sword. She saved him the trouble.
He wasn't the only one who noticed her.
When the time came, the king had chosen her to be his wife.
Young, innocent, scared Achaia, just hitting double digits, went onto the dias and was forced to wear the heavy crown. Forced in front of everyone to recite her promises to a man well over the sixties.
Frank waited for everyone to exit the room before leaping down from the ceiling, ready to kill him.
He didn't even bring out his sword.
Achaia had been small, but she was fast, kicking the king in his groin. As he bent down, she had the time to grab something from her chiton's pocket. When the king straightened and grabbed her hair, ready to punish her, Achaia forced the liquid down his throat, and the king went down like a domina.
Awed by the girl's boldness, Frank returned to his human form, officially scaring Achaia so much that she punched him in the jaw and attempted to knee him in the groin.
Frank moved away from that, checking the king. He was dead. Foam was appearing in his mouth.
Later on, Frank found out she had made it herself.
"Berries." She explained, refusing to meet his eyes, her cheeks flushed red. "My mother grew them to study them. I stole some when her back was turned. I knew which ones could kill, and I mixed them. I always had a fascination for them, you see, and she always encouraged me to pursue it."
In all honesty, Frank went there, intending to find someone older. A boy he had seen promising as he walked down the city's streets. He returned to Titus with a new queen ruling Halonia.
To this day, he did not regret it.
Achaia, with the proper encouragement and tools, became a master at potions. Although Keelan, from Hazel's realm, was the one poisoning Apollo, it was Achaia who thought of it, Achaia who managed to make the poison in the first place.
Some days were worse. Days like this, when Achaia's temper got the better of her.
"Calm down." Frank finally reached her, gripping her by her shoulders. "Achaia. Talk to me."
Her bottom lip trembled, showing her distress. "I cannot."
"What can't you do?"
"Finish this."
Frank blinked. It took a second for him to realise what was going on. "Sweet girl," He tried to get her to face him. A minute passed before she raised her head. "You love so much. You want to do good for your sister, but you push yourself too hard."
"She is dying." Achaia croaked out. "I do not want Issa to die. She's all I have left."
That's the curse of an Immortal. People around die, but you can't follow.
They have gained so much, but those they love are still dying.
"This is like with Elpis all over again." Achaia let out a shaky breath, her eyes misting over. "Please, my king, do not let them take my sister away."
"I'm sorry, sweet." Frank stroked her hair as she buried her head in his chest. "I'm so sorry."
Years pass in a blink of an eye.
Persephone has not been kidnapped yet, but in the quiet of their own dimension, the people of Kydria enjoy the change in the seasons.
In Elacia, a wild-spirited horse ran freely. He was harsh, unfriendly, and refused to let anyone ride him.
He was the queen's steed, her beloved child. The people of Elacia knew to steer clear of him.
Now, Arion dashed through Kyklos, tramping on the damp grass as Hazel watched from a distance, smiling in satisfaction with Frank lying under her, reading a book.
Rex emerged from the palace, holding a bar of gold. He whistled for Arion, gently laying the bar on the ground. A flash of black. The bar was snatched away.
Hazel gave him a little wave, thanking him for that. Rex bowed to her before he went back into the palace.
She sank back down, closing her eyes. "Where's Seph?"
"Busy." Came her boyfriend's distracted answer. Whatever he was reading must be real fascinating. "Watching Persephone, I think, with Erin. She's growing fond of the little goddess."
"The closer she gets to the enemy," Hazel sighed, unceremoniously dumping her arm on her head to block out the sun, "the more hurt she's going to get in the end. We've done too much to go back now, and she's not going to stop just because she likes some of them."
"Either way, she's going to get hurt." Frank acknowledges. "Oh, here she is."
As the last word left his mouth, the air in front of them started sparking. Hearing the fizzing sound, Hazel got up, reluctantly opening her eyes.
A clap of thunder. Adira was suddenly standing in the previously empty area, a giddy smile resting on her lips. "Hey, guys."
Hazel motioned to the space next to her, the last spot that was unoccupied on the picnic mat. "Sit with us, Seph."
Adira grabbed a fistful of her gown, dramatically swishing it in the air before sitting down, her hip nudging Hazel's. "Wanna guess what today is?"
"Where have you been?" Hazel asked instead. "The sun is past its highest peak. I haven't seen you since two days ago."
"I was watching little Persephone," Adira said. The name flowed from her lips easily. Unafraid.
Once, the mention of the goddess would have made her cringe because of their shared name. Hazel was glad Adira had moved on from it.
In her entire life as Persephone Jackson, nothing has gone right for her. At least now as Adira, her life is reborn. Without the Gods.
Frank placed an olive leaf in his book, closing it. "Anything interesting happened?"
"Oh. As of yesterday, Persephone is officially kidnapped by Hades and this morning, Demeter just realised it when she was looking for her precious child." Adira made a hand gesture. "It's saddening, you know, her screams of realisation. I can't tell which one was worse. Demeter when she found out or Persephone when she was kidnapped. I do believe Demeter just went to find Zeus, so I took the opportunity to come here. Now I know why people like to tell the stories of Greek Figures. They are so fascinating. I thought I was watching one of those movies in the movie theatre again. What a fun time that had been, don't you agree?"
In all the years Hazel has known Adira, she learned quite a few things about her cousin. One of them is that it is never good when Adira speaks in a fast, airy tone.
She took a good look at the other girl. Her posture was too straight to be at ease, her shoulders stiff and a blank light in her eyes.
Adira may hate the Gods, but she was, in the end, one of them. Hazel did not doubt that when she escaped death, she had left something there and gained something back. She hated the Gods, but she was closer to them than any of them ever will.
Hazel knows the stories their people whisper about the revived queen. How her title of 'goddess' may have become literal. That she is now connected to the Gods.
She could relate to Persephone and Demeter. She knew the terror Demeter must face because she once felt that way about her mother. She knew Persephone's feelings because, in a way, that was how she felt at Camp Jupiter. Alone in the enemy's domain.
However much Adira would hate to become a goddess, a part of Hazel had guessed from the beginning it was never an option.
The three of them had become beyond just mortals. It was only a matter of time. Their prominent hatred of the Gods was the only thing holding them back from ascending.
"I get why Demeter would do it," Frank spoke up, waking Hazel up from her reverie. "If I had a daughter, I would do anything to protect her as well. As of now, Demeter hates Hades and she views him as a monster. No wonder she would be so frantic."
"They all started out with good intentions." Adira agreed, bringing her knees up to her chest in a more vulnerable manner. "Time corrupts all."
There was not a truer sentence.
"Winter will start soon." Hazel raised her head towards the sky, soaking up the light. "None of their kingdoms are ready for it. Many will wither and die. We should help them."
Ever since Percy died, Hazel tried to always consider Earth as part of those she protected. She forgot that once, and everything was ruined. She wasn't going to make that mistake again.
"Someone should help Demeter as well." Frank pointed out. "If I remember correctly, she spent a good six months searching for Persephone."
Adira hummed in consideration. She knew the Greek Myths the best. "Demeter spent nine days searching for little Persephone." She recalled. "But she lets winter go on for months after that because Zeus refuses to help her and Hades refuses to let Persephone go."
"Plants cannot live for months in winter." Hazel dug her hand into the grass. Life in nature pulsated, comforting their mistress. "Humanity will die."
"So you help them," Adira said, a plan already formed in her head. "Helios is on our side, right? He is the one to help Demeter in the first place and tells her everything about Persephone's abduction. I will aid Demeter somehow. Perhaps Keelan can help."
Hazel tilted her head in Frank's direction. He nodded. "Let's do it." They said in unison.
Adira raised her fist. They did the same.
Ever since her death, they stopped bringing out Hali, Allagi and Gi. Adira was the only one who still wore Azure. The gifts the Fates gave them were locked up in Myliraki. It had been a unanimous decision, they wanted nothing more to do with the Fates.
They were nothing more than symbols now. A connection between th Τελευταία and those they give the shards to.
They didn't need them anyway. Their blood had been awoken. Their power came from within them, they didn't need to call for them with their gems anymore.
"For us." Nothing more had to be said.
Winter, to Adira, had always been her favourite season. It changed after her mother read to her the story of winter's origin. When she learned about the tale of the one who had her name before her.
It is a beautiful love story. Sally would tell her, holding her in her arms. Hades and Persephone learned to love each other. Light and dark. They are one of the few whose love remains.
It is not! Young Adira had protested, her chubby arms around her mother's neck. Persephone's mother has to suffer all alone. All she wanted was to protect her daughter. And Persephone left without thinking of her poor mother.
Sally had laughed and gave her a sweet for her creative thinking. Sweet, sweet, Sephie. Mother's love is one of the purest forms of love ever created, I agree. However, you have to understand. Demeter saw Persephone as a child. Forever. She coddled her and never gave her the chance to grow.
I would like that. Adira mumbled, working on opening the sweet wrapper. I never want to grow up. I want to stay with you forever, mummy.
Adira forgot what her mother had said after that. She'll never know now. Maybe that was why she was so intent on helping Demeter.
At the end of the day, Demeter will die. No matter how sympathetic Adira was of her now, her blood boiled at the thought of leaving any Olympian alive.
Before that, there was something in life called self-indulgence and Adira is going to satisfy herself in that as much as possible.
Demeter, weary in her non-ending search, almost brushed past Adira, who sat high on a tree branch, overlooking the entire field. Her clothes were worn out and Adira saw how her shoes were soiled and dirtied, with holes in them.
If there was one thing Adira admired, it was consistency and determination. She called out to Demeter. "My fair lady!"
When Demeter whirled around, sharp and ready to attack, Adira dropped down from the tree, landing on her feet. She didn't bother bowing to her. "I see you are weary," She resisted the urge to comment on her own statement. It wouldn't be very appropriate to say no shit Sherlock, especially since Demeter wouldn't have any idea who Sherlock is. "My house is in the direction you are headed. Would you stop by and rest for a bit?"
She nearly offered tea but realised that the outlands didn't have tea. Not until somewhere in the 1900s. How boring, really.
Demeter considered her words but shook her head. "I thank you for your hospitality, young child," She rasped, her voice hoarse and cracking, "but I am on an important quest and I must not waste any time."
"I understand," Adira reassured her. "Time is of essence. However, a quick break harms no one. Come. Have a bath. Eat some food. You will be able to continue with a much clearer mind."
She quickly wore Demeter down and the two of them travelled side by side to a nearby village. Adira had the village chief hypnotised with her siren-charm, so Demeter wasn't doubtful when he came and welcomed her. She resisted the urge to gag as the man hugged her as well.
Note to self: kill this man after Demeter leaves. Make it seem like an accident.
A frail-looking woman barely reacted as Adira brought Demeter inside and took her to a place where she could bathe.
While she did, Adira approached the woman, crouching down to whisper by her ear. "What is your name, my child?"
The woman blinked in surprise. Adira could hear her thoughts, why a child younger than her was calling her by such an endearment.
Nevertheless, she obliged. "V- Valerie."
Her voice was raspy, similar to that of Demeter's. Maybe Adira should have checked this man's house before she brought Demeter here.
He just so happened to be the first guy she encountered upon stepping foot in the village. Her luck had been great when she realised he was the chief.
"After I go," Adira whispered, "leave this place. Go to the forests beyond this village. Find a home there." This forest's shelter was one of the very first that Aristorine built. "Leave this man. You deserve far better. Let me guide you."
When she heard Demeter's footsteps, she hastily got to her feet again, not before pressing a shard of Hali that she summoned into Valerie's open palm.
The poor woman looked shocked. Not even suspicious, her face was filled with fear and uncertainty.
"He will die tonight," Adira said her final parting words. "You do not have to join him."
"Who are you?"
"They call me Aiónia." Adira offered. "Of the endless realms." Of the sea and sky. One day, it will be official.
She didn't try to talk to Valerie after that. Not that the woman tried to talk to her.
Demeter had bathed and changed. While Adira refrained from voicing out questions she knew a mortal would, she couldn't help but admire the beauty of the elder goddess.
Her hair was washed and combed. It still dripped water but Adira could see the shine of her brunette hair. Her forest green eyes were more awake now. More alert. She stood tall and proud. This was the goddess of agriculture, the second daughter of the Titan King. Not the woman Adira met earlier on.
Distantly, she wondered if Hazel and Frank were doing okay.
They haven't used their mind link in a long time. Other than giving others a shard of their pendant, they tried not to rely on them anymore. The only reason why Adira still wore Azule was because it was like a connection to Emily. Her sweet Emily, who was safe from her world.
"There is a kingdom quite close to here," Adira said to Demeter who ate the fruits laid out in front of her. "They have many resources and their king is very hospitable. They have a son, Triptolemus. If you go there, you will be at better odds of finishing your quest, my lady."
"You are so kind." Demeter gushed, smiling in a secretive way Adira would not understand if she had not lived for so long. "I thank you for all you have done for me. One day, my child, may someone give you the same kindness you have shown me."
One day, Adira thinks, you will not think of me as being 'kind'. You will scream and hate me, you will wish death upon me. Remember this encounter, Demeter Thesmophoros, remember how you claim I am such a saint when you die by my blade, or the blade of one I love.
—
On the other side of the world, Hazel was half a second away from blasting the entire kingdom off the maps of Greece.
However, she's nice. She's tolerant, she's kind, she's sweet, she doesn't act on her temper.
If she did, Frank would have a much harder job. Then, it'll just be when he loses his temper as well.
Out of the three of them, Frank could hold his temper the best. Which is really helpful when he has to control two rageful queens who have the power to single-handedly wreck the world.
Maybe it's because of their speciality, Hazel muses. Her Frank always hated to act on his ancestor's powers over the ocean.
Only Ares and his shapeshifting powers.
I prefer to be in control. He told them many times. Especially if I lose my cool. Which I have a feeling is going to happen many times.
Maybe today. Maybe today.
Because this king might just wear the last patient cell in her.
"My king, I just think-" Frank, sweet patient, Frank, was still trying to talk reason into the lazy lump.
The potato, poor excuse of a person, waved his hand, dismissing her Frank. "Enough, enough. The Gods will not harm our crops. Why would they? Why, we have always paid respect to them. We worship them, sacrifice our goods. We have been their willing servants. We are-"
Hazel had enough of this talk. "You are nothing to the Gods."
She spoke quietly, barely loud enough for anyone to hear, but the entire hall just went from full-on talking to dead silence. They stared at her in shock and fear. Fear that the Gods heard her and were going to kill her and then kill them for being there.
There was no need for that, however. Not when she was there.
They do not fear her? Fine. She'll just have to give a reason to do so. This will show them all who they should fear. The Gods or the Τελευταία. Spoiler alert, it wasn't the arrogant children of the Titans.
He recovered quickly enough. Disappointing. She will give credit for his courage, as stupidly misplaced as it is. "H- how dare you accuse the lords of such actions! Guards! Take the witch away." Hazel resisted the urge to laugh at the irony. "Throw her into the dungeons! Show her how we treat those who ill-treat our beloved Gods!"
Hazel trembled with fury, unable to say anything at all. She let them approach her, didn't say anything as one of them grabbed her forearm, and tugged her forward.
She stumbled a step but didn't quite manage a second before the hand was rudely ripped from her skin. She stepped back, rubbing the slightly red skin. How dare they touch her.
If she had been alone, Hazel would have loved to teach them all a lesson. Her anger would have prevented her from thinking straight, so they might have been successful in dragging her to the dungeons but afterwards? Oh, they would pay.
However, she wasn't alone. And Frank wasn't like her. In her anger, she would be unable to do anything but think about the blatant disrespect.
In his anger, Frank only knew how to act.
And oh, Hazel knew how much she adored that man but it was times like this that made her weak in the knees and want to swoon like she was thirteen again.
Frank was tall. Very tall. They haven't aged physically since they came back so Hazel was always the shortest but her boyfriend, well.
After the Giants' War, he turned from an adorable baby-face boy to a muscular, confident man. He was meant to lead. Meant to rule.
Yet unlike Hazel and Percy, he didn't use flashy powers. He didn't wave his hand and make the entire village drown in his element.
His element was war. He didn't kill them if they were reluctant to listen, he broke and bent them until they bowed at his feet willingly.
Times like this? He was beyond caring.
The guard who had grabbed Hazel had his arm in Frank's iron grip, his feet kicking the air helplessly as Frank raised him until they were at eye level.
Frank bared his teeth, growling under his breath. His front teeth elongated until they were fangs, eyes flashed red. His veins throbbed with anger and his hand clenched. There was a sickening crunch! and the guard screamed, high-pitched. Blood leaked down his armour and Frank's arm before he tossed the guard to the side. As the man passed him, Frank snatched up the sword and broke it over his knee.
Tossing the remains aside, he glared at the other guards, trembling like little mice. "Anyone dares touch my girlfriend," He started, his voice unassumingly levelled, "I will find your family. I will not kill you, no. We'll start with your pride and joy, maybe your son? We have all the time in the world. I will make you regret your very existence, just try me! I dare you."
If Hazel wanted to sound threatening, shadows would fly behind her back, looming over them, blocking out the light. She would use the Mist to manipulate reality, make it sound like she was everywhere around them, mess them up a bit. Frank didn't need magic. His presence was enough. Magic was nice but there were those who commanded cities without needing such powers.
Shaking her head, Hazel decides to let them off. "Run."
Well, Greek men were nothing but cowards. None remained, dashing out of any door available. The man Frank had broken the arm of got to his feet, whimpering like a baby. He was gone in seconds as well.
Frank's eyes cooled down into their normal brown. Hazel grabbed his wrist, pulling herself up to kiss his cheek. "That was hot." She mumbled under her breath. "Next time you're threatening someone, please call me. I want to be there."
That over, Frank returned to his bumbling, easy-going self. He smiled self-consciously. "Of course, Hazie."
They turned back to the king, pale as a sheet of paper, sweating head to toe.
"You are going to listen to us now," Frank said, back to serious mode. Hazel smiled, happy to let him do the work this time.
—
Not all kingdoms were as messed up as that one. Most of them listened. Those that didn't, well, it would be Frank who dealt with them. After that episode, Hazel discovered a lust for Frank turning self-arrogant men into whimpering, fearful cowards. She was more than happy to sit back and enjoy the beautiful show he had laid out for her.
And Frank was glad to be of service.
Convincing them to start preparing for winter, without actually revealing anything, was done in a matter of two weeks.
Could have been sooner, but Hazel couldn't be bothered to pick up the pace in case she met yet another disgusting king who saw her for her beauty.
Two weeks after they were done, the first snowflake fell. From a snowflake, a blizzard was born. Until all of Earth was buried under the Goddess's wrath.
The Τελευταία remained safe and comfy in their homes, waiting for the storm to pass.
They weren't completely selfish. Hazel still sent help if it was needed. Adira would manipulate the weather if it got too cold. Frank sent his men out to provide warmth to neighbouring lands.
Yet, eventually, two weeks became a month. A month became three.
Hazel never intended to go to the Underworld, but she would not miss this.
Her father's love story was one spoken by many, but it was quite another thing to witness it. Hidden in her shadows, she watched in muted smugness as Persephone and Hades parted tearfully. So disapproving of my love when you ruined so many lives for your love. She sighed. So truly selfish, father. So selfish. Someone has to wake you up, and I gladly accept that role.
Zeus was spoken for by Adira. Frank would do anything to kill Poseidon. It was only right that Hazel got Hades.
When Persephone was charioted away by Hermes and Hades was alone to mourn for the loss of his love, Hazel turned away from him and returned to the upper world, into the hands of those she love and love her back.
It wasn't surprising to Adira when the next to abdicate her throne was Yuna of Parigoria. A part of her always knew that day would come. She just didn't think it would have taken so long.
Parigoria threw a feast for their queen. Yuna was beloved, and they celebrated her. She deserved it.
Adira attended the festival with Erin on her shoulder, but she stood to one side, politely declining the offer to give Yuna a few words before she departed for the Underworld to reunite with her sister.
A long time ago, she would have hated Yuna for this, but she deserved it. If it were Adira, she would have also done anything to be reunited with her mother and little Estelle. She had no right to deprive someone else of the opportunity.
When the moon was hanging high above the sky and Erin disappearing, the two of them snuck out of the festival, climbing up the roof of the Parigorian Palace. They sat there, admiring the peace of their environment, the loud music silenced.
It was Yuna who spoke first. "No matter what path I continue on, I will lose. Aiónia, there is no life where I can have everyone I love in the same dimension. My family is in the Underworld, but my chosen are here."
"You have stayed long enough," Adira responded, using her arm as a pillow. She adores the stars and mourns the day she has to watch them slowly disappear due to pollution. "I adore you, Yuna, as much as I adore the rest. It is because I adore you that I ask you to follow your heart and find Elpis and Amey again. I'll take care of Symna. She'll be a wonderful queen, I'm sure."
"I am not concerned about that. Sym has had a wonderful childhood and she will have an even more beautiful future. Are you sure, though, Vasilissa-"
Laughing, Adira held up a finger, asking for silence that Yuna gave her instantaneously. "I've kept you from your family far too long. You have been a wonderful friend, Yuna, and I will miss you, but Elpis is waiting for you. Your mother is waiting. One day we'll be reunited, I'm sure, but now, it's time for you to go. Hazel is waiting in Ethearos. Symna and Wyr will understand."
At the mention of Yuna's children, the queen paled considerably, wiping her palm on her silk gown.
It was quite easy to guess why Yuna would get such a strong reaction. "It's not wrong to choose the younger sibling for the throne, Yuna. I will talk to Wyr. She will understand. Or I will make her."
"Wyr is still my daughter. Please, Vasilissa."
Adira knew firsthand just how powerful mother's love is. It must pain Yuna to leave them, but even Symna was demanding Yuna to leave. To let them take care of things and go to the Underworld. Reunite with Elpis and her mother. The only thing Yuna was doing right now, was causing herself grief and despair. "She will not be harmed. I never harm my people."
"Thank you."
"No, Yuna, thank you. I bless you on your journey, through death and after." With that, Adira sat up once more. She could see the moon reflected in Yuna's irises. So white, round, alive. She cupped the younger girl's face. "Perhaps we will meet again in your next life."
"Only Chaos knows." Yuna breathed, her hand reaching up to touch Adira's.
They stayed there for the rest of the night. When Adira returned to greet the Parigorians, she was alone.
There was something special about this year. Frank just couldn't put a finger on it.
Shame to say they still have not figured out what year it is, so he couldn't just flip open the calendar and see what date it is.
Back when he was still Ekdikó, he had a sixth sense sharper than even Adira. It could have been their field of expertise, who knows. She bested him in power, he bested her in combat. Or he would if half the time they did not get distracted by something and have to abandon the fight halfway.
So, he knew there was something important about this year when the sightings of Zeus on Earth became very concentrated on one certain kingdom. Argos.
—
A few months later, a wooden chest bobbed along the ocean wave. It was no ordinary box, for it was long and wide. Longer than what one usually expects, long enough to contain a human being.
Although the oceans were treacherous, none dared approach the lone chest, as if shielded against it.
If all things went well, they should have ended up in Seriphus, where a king would find himself filled with lust for the runaway princess.
Alas, whether by Fate's will or another force, the ocean currents change directions. For seven days and seven nights, the chest remained in the ocean. Until it didn't.
Somehow, it bypassed those that swam in the borders of the empire.
The Empire itself stood tall and proud for all to see. Near the borders of Corinth and touching Athens, no one could truly tell where it truly stopped. None knew that it stretched beyond the physical realm. That what they saw was only enough to stop questions on whether such a kingdom could exist.
Greece was not many islands, it was a whole. Once upon a time.
In the future, scientists could say how it was the evolution of the world that made Greece separate. In truth, it was the Τελευταία who took Greece apart. They came and conquered and took those lands and made them their own.
Adira took hers and made a kingdom in what people will eventually call the Pacific Ocean.
Hazel created a world in the south of Africa, constantly adrift. One day it was in the Indian Ocean. Another, it was the Southern Ocean. They were always moving.
Only the war kingdom, the kingdom Frank had built, was still open to visitors.
Using the Mist, he had covered most of his empire. All, except Anthízo and Halonia. Their states were the doors that connected Myliraki to Greece. It was those two states outsiders saw and assumed was just another island in Greece.
Only those who stepped foot in them would then see the Mist unravel and reveal the rest of the empire in all its glory.
Until then, no one knew how far Myliraki stretched. How, if it was uncovered, would go far and beyond. Shadowing all of Greece, for it had long passed the size of that country. They would only know of Anthízo and Halonia. Even those two states alone, people could not truly see the end.
They only saw the borders. Felt the hostility radiating from it. They could not see it, but in their minds, their conscience warned them against stepping in those waters, where it was so dark they could barely see their reflection.
Even so, the chest did not have eyes. Did not have a conscience. It bobbed along the ocean currents, easily bypassing the security measures.
It made it past the dark waters until black turned blue, and the ocean became normal again. Then, it slowly made its way to the shores of Halonia until the ocean delivered it on land. After seven days on sea, those inside jolted as the chest stopped moving and became still.
Groggy from the week, Danaë held her baby close before trying to peek out from a hole in the chest. She could hardly make out anything.
Golden sand everywhere around her. She couldn't see the domain of her beloved but trees dotted the land, its leaves bringing shade and hiding fruit within them.
After days of eating nothing but fish, Danaë's mouth watered at the thought of eating something better.
She pushed against the chest, knowing it did nothing to free her and her baby.
"Help!" She tried to yell. "Help us!"
Only silence greeted her.
—
Perhaps Fate decided to be lenient towards the young mother, for on that very day was the death anniversary of Achaia's dear sister.
Issa the Second, named after their mother. No one expected Issa to die. No one wanted to let her go.
Certainly not Achaia, who worked tirelessly, day after day, night after night, to come up with an antidote for her sister.
In the end, it was all in vain. Issa passed five years ago and Achaia was left all alone. The last of her family.
The queen was heartbroken and she mourned for days to come, refusing to speak, to move, to do anything.
She sat on her bed, hugging her arms around her waist, her head bowed, and wore black, the traditional attire for mourning. Many have tried to comfort her. None worked. Only her dear friend, Eilya of Anthízo, or her king, Frank, could convince her to eat.
They had their own duties and reluctantly, had to return to them.
Eventually, Achaia had to continue living. Her state needed her, she was their queen. She had to act like it.
Still, something was gone after Issa died. The girl had taken something from Achaia and brought it to the Underworld.
Happiness.
Achaia, once the sweetest on the Council, was not seen with a smile ever since her sister's passing.
On that day, it was Isadora who managed to coax Achaia out for a walk.
"Get some fresh air." She had suggested, gently tugging on Achaia's arm. "I will be returning to Kydria in two years, Achaia, and I will not be coming back to Myliraki for a long time. Spend some time with me, before I have to go back?"
Isadora knew Achaia's pain. Of course she did, she lost her Aiónia.
Unlike her, Issa would never come back to her life. Achaia truly lost her sister.
Issa would not have wanted Achaia to throw her life away because of her death. She found herself nodding to Isadora's request.
The two of them set off.
—
Achaia was proud. Who wouldn't be, if they were a queen for close to a millenia.
Time sure passes quickly, because Achaia still remembered the first time she met Frank. Quite vividly. It had been a really amazing day.
However, as proud as she was, she wasn't so proud to not admit that Isadora was right. She felt so much better now that she was out in the open.
At her side, Isadora grabbed her elbow, tugging her. "Let us go to the beach." She suggested. "I want to see the ocean again."
So off they went.
When they finally reached the beach, it was evident something was wrong.
Pausing mid-laugh, Isadora's entire form froze. Her smile melted away. "Do you hear that?"
Achaia stopped as well and cocked her head. It took a second for her to realise what the sound was. Crying.
Or more specifically, a baby.
No other words were exchanged as they ran across the sand to find the source of the crying.
There was no one on the beach. So there definitely wasn't supposed to be a baby crying either.
As they approached the source, they could hear a softer voice calling out as well. "Help!"
There was a lone chest, long enough to contain an adult. It was washed ashore, most likely.
The wailing came from there.
Achaia dropped to her knees and immediately began to examine the chest, looking for how to open it.
She was probably finding the best way to open it without hurting those inside.
Isadora didn't bother. She shouted, "stay down!" waited a second, and used the knife in her belt to stab through the wood.
The woman inside screamed in shock and the baby wailed even harder.
Achaia has known Isadora for nearly her entire life, but even she blinked in shock at Isadora's reaction to this.
Ignoring everyone, Isadora dragged the knife through the wood until they managed to make a hole large enough for the woman to climb out of.
Even though it was really clear by the baby's wailing that there were more than one person, Achaia still cursed at seeing the tiny bundle wrapped in the woman's arms.
The woman in question was someone Achaia had never met before. She had long, flowing, dark hair, almond-shaped eyes, high cheekbones and a delicate jawline, soft, full lips, and a slender, graceful neck. Achaia has seen enough royalty to know that the chiton this woman wore were clothes that befitted a noble status despite it being dirtied and torn. A queen, perhaps.
To Isadora she said, "help me call Frank, please."
Then, she switched back to her mother-tongue. "Do not be afraid," She said gently, holding her hands out. "We are not here to hurt you."
Mistrust in her eyes, the woman hugged her baby tighter. "Who are you?" She asked, her voice hoarse. Maybe unused for a long time. "Did he send you?"
"He?" Achaia furrowed her brows, confused. She was at a loss on how to address such a situation. It wasn't talking to a stranger that bothered her.
She just wasn't sure how much she could tell this woman.
Being in Myliraki, Achaia rarely went out into the outlands. Even those who entered from Greece, they know she's the queen. They know better than to disrespect her.
She can't fault this woman for not knowing who she is.
However, it is the first time they have an outlander who arrived in a chest, holding a baby that certainly seemed like they needed medical attention.
And who is this man she refers to?
The woman relented. "Zeus." She whispered, eyes wide, oblivious to how Achaia suddenly froze in her steps. The forbidden name, the cursed name. "My beloved. He protected me. Helped me escape my father. Told me he will take me somewhere safe."
"Safe." Achaia repeated. The woman flinched as Achaia's sword appeared in her hand. It was the sword meant for the royalty of Halonia. Meant for her, since she will never give the throne up.
Weapons come and go. Ευκαιρία remains with her. The symbol of her status, the first gift Frank gave her. It has never failed her and whenever her guard was up, Allagi summoned Ευκαιρία or her.
Now, especially, Achaia was contemplating on killing the woman and keeping the boy. She hates murder. Halonia had the smallest execution rate for a reason.
Still, she wasn't afraid of killing. Just like the king who tried to chain her to him, she could kill, and if they deserved it, she would kill them with a small smile.
This woman seemed innocent, but anyone who aligned themselves to the likes of Zeus was a monster in her books.
Ευκαιρία as steady as Achaia raised her to the woman, the sharp tip centimetres away from her throat. The baby was calm now that they were out of the dark chest but any sudden movements, he would go off again. The woman visibly gulped.
"Safe." Achaia sighed. "Coming here was a mistake, young one. You are not safe here. Any worshipper of that power-hungry monster is not welcomed here."
"Aya." Ευκαιρία disappeared. Only one could make weapons vanish. Not even Hazel or Adira…
Achaia whirled around. Frank stood ten feet away from her with Isadora next to him.
Frank must have come from a meeting because he was still wearing his formal attire. A chiton and tunic made from linen, fastened with a belt. Over the chiton, he wore a himation, a loosely draped cloak. A red aura still surrounded him.
Achaia wasn't sure if he knew that his power was seeping out of him. Probably not. Her Frank didn't care about magical powers. Not like Hazel relied on the Mist, or Adira used her domains.
Still, in small ways, they were reminded of their power.
Like how Adira's eyes turn completely white without her noticing.
Frank's aura turned everyone either rageful and temperamental, or scared and fearful. If there were any weapons near him, they would start to tremble and shake. The ground shook as well. Once, Achaia got a report that they found a human bone. Frank never knew. He was busy.
Hazel was simple but elegant, with gemstones in her wake and the Mist falling from her fingertips.
Slowly, very slowly, the Τελευταία were losing their human anchors. Soon, they would no longer be physically the same as the rest.
They would still be better, everyone knew. They could lose their physical human characteristics and ascend, but they would bring along a new age. A better age.
They know best after all. They know what it's like to be hurt, to be bent in a million ways until no one could recognise you.
The power emitting from Frank was not unnoticed by the woman, who whimpered in fear, stepping back. She curled inwards, almost shielding her baby.
Frank didn't notice, coming forward to address Achaia in English. "Prepare a room for our guests."
She responded in the same language. "She knows Zeus!" She protested. "He could be watching her even now, my king."
He shook his head, patting her shoulder. "Do not underestimate the power of the Mist, Aya. He does not know where she is. Besides, I have told you enough stories about the lovers of the Gods."
None truly had a happy ending. They were all victims.
Reluctantly, Achaia backed off. "Very well." She curtsied to him before leaving with Isadora, letting her king to deal with the outlander.
—
Frank waited for the two girls to disappear out of sight before finally addressing the runaway princess. "How did you come here?" Unlike with Achaia, he didn't bother sounding nice. His voice came out flat and bored.
She winced. The baby made a cooing sound as the woman stroked his head. Frank was 75 percent sure it was a boy. "I do not know." She admitted softly. "My father was about to kill me. He received a prophecy, how my baby will be the death of him, and locked me up, trying to make sure I never give birth."
The story she was telling sounded familiar, but alas, Frank never bothered to keep up with Greek Myths. Why bother when Adira was here?
"My lover… he visited me in my prison." She continued, wiping her tears. "He gave me a gift in the form of my little boy. When my father saw… he did not receive the news well. I was to be killed. However, Zeus gave a way to escape. I did. Then, I ended up here. I do not know where I am." Her tears started flowing even faster.
Frank didn't attempt to comfort her. "You are in Myliraki." He informed her. "My kingdom. You are near Corinth, if that makes you feel better."
"Corinth!" The woman gasped, the name familiar to her. "How- my family is so far from here!"
"Zeus." Frank said as an explanation. "What is your name?"
He could see that she was struggling to keep her cool. "Danaë." The woman said. "This is my little boy. My Perseus."
Avenger. Or destroyer.
So this is Perseus.
Adira once told them that had she been born a boy, Sally would have named her Perseus. How funny it was to be reminded of this now that he has met the original Perseus.
"I do not trust you." Frank said after a minute. He wasn't lying. He needed to find Adira, get her to tell him the tale of the slayer of Medusa. "I cannot trust you, not while you have been so intimate with my enemy." Upon hearing this, the colour on Danaë's face drained drastically, it was almost humorous. "However, you need somewhere to stay, and your child needs proper attention." Frank continued. "I have gotten them to get you a room for now. We can speak more after this."
He couldn't trust this woman. Not because of her past with Zeus but because she definitely should not be here.
The Fates were playing with them again. This time, he was determined not to let them win.
—
To her credit, Adira didn't bat an eye. "You poor dear." She said sympathetically to Danaë, who by now has changed into more comfortable clothings. She instantly let go of Erin to wrap an arm around Danaë, directing her to the door. "Come with me, and we shall get you something to eat. Maybe a hot tub to soak in."
She quickly ushered the flustered ex-princess out of the throne room, leaving Frank and Hazel alone. "Where's the boy?" Hazel asked first.
"With Aya." Frank replied with a shrug. "Danaë trusts her."
It doesn't matter if Achaia had tried to kill her. It's just how Achaia is. No matter what she does, no one has the heart to truly hate her.
Humming, Hazel sat down on his throne, leaning on her elbow. She whistled a tune, and Erin came flying. "How funny it is," she murmured, giving Erin her meal, "that Danaë comes here of all places."
Frank nodded his agreement. "The Fates are responsible for this. It is for sure, there is no way this is a coincidence."
His comment was almost enough to make his girlfriend smile. Almost. She crossed her legs, stacking one on top of the other. "Darling, we should get that word out of your dictionary. I've completely forgotten about it. Coincidence is nothing."
There was no such thing as a coincidence in their world. Frank knew that only too well. "As the only demigod to ever have a happy ending, Perseus still suffered a lot. His childhood was a main factor, I believe. The Fates gave him to us, wanting us to interfere. They want us to stop his quest to defeat Medusa."
Hazel pursed her lips, her face turning blank. It showed her regret. "We should have gotten Medusa out when we had the chance."
"It's too late for that now. We didn't know when she was cursed until it's too late." Frank reasoned with her.
"I thought I would have more time." Hazel said softly, tapping her free hand on the armrest, one finger at a time. Her fingernails clacked against the metal. Erin made a sound of displeasure at that, pecking at Hazel. "I should have used more effort to reverse Athena's curse."
"In time." Frank made his way to her, tilting her chin up to kiss her on the lips. "You can do this. Of course you can, you're Hazel Levesque."
When he tried to pull back, Hazel cupped her hand in the back of his neck, pulling him closer into a deeper, more sensual kiss. "And you are Frank Zhang." Her eyelids were shut. "The boy cannot grow up as he had before. Promise me you will train him. Get him ready for his destiny."
Was there ever a doubt? "Of course."
Outside of the hospital, Lysander paced restlessly. He's been there for hours now, from when the sun went down to when the sun came up. Still, he was moving up and down, unable to stay still.
He could hear the murmurs from the people of Ephicca who recognised him. It wasn't a secret that Aristorine was in there right now, perhaps squeezing the life out of her sister Starra's hand. Adira was with her as well, aiding to make the entire process more comfortable for the soon-to-be mother.
If only Lysander could be there, encouraging Aristorine the entire way.
For Aiónia's sake, he's the father!
Unfortunately, it was Aristorine herself who kicked him out.
"I am going to kick you out either way so I suggest you go now." Aristorine had said, holding her swollen belly. "Sander, just go."
He knew, if he were there, Aristorine's temper would flare, seeing the man who put her in this situation.
Pregnancy was new to the couple, they had to adapt to it. Lysander wasn't offended but he did wish he could get an update on how his girlfriend was doing.
After who knows how long, Adira finally called him in.
With Hali glowing urgently, Lysander finally had the excuse of bursting through the hospital doors and seeing his girlfriend lying on the bed, pale and sweating.
A second later, the sound of a baby crying filled the air and Aristorine smiled, wide and satisfied.
Clapping her hands once, Adira quickly ushered everyone out. "Congratulations." She told Lysander on her way out. "Your little girl is perfect. Made things so easy for her mama."
As soon as the doors clicked shut, Lysander went to sit next to Aristorine, holding out a hesitant finger to his baby.
"Well?" Aristorine croaked out. "How is she?"
"Perfect." Lysander breathed, pupils blown. "She's perfect. Our sweet Amber."
Aristorine let out a tired giggle. "Amber?"
He quickly looked up. "That's her name, right? We named her…"
"I am teasing." She reassured him. "Of course she is our Amber. Our little princess."
Their little princess.
Lysander thought of the son of Zeus who was growing up faster than ever in Halonia.
It could be his godly genes because he has already said his first word. Mama.
Danaë was so proud of him. Lysander wondered if Zeus, in the other timeline, cared enough about his son to feel proud that he was well above the average babies. If Zeus even knew Perseus existed before he killed the Gorgon, Medusa.
He couldn't ever imagine being distant, not when he had fallen in love with the sweet baby that his girlfriend held in her arms.
For once in his life, Lysander pitied Zeus because he will never get to experience the love he felt as a father. He will never care for his children enough to be there as they grow up and he will miss the joy and absolute adoration Lysander feels for Amber.
Lysander grew up listening to the stories of their saviour, Adira. He once wondered what made her fight for the Titans, against the Gods. Why she was so adamant on destroying them.
Now he knew. If anyone were to touch a single hair on Amber, he would burn the world.
—
"Mama!" Young Amber wailed as she struggled to her feet, trying to waddle her way to Perseus as he held the swan-shaped pillow in his chubby hands. "Mama! Pweseus is being mean!"
Hiding her laugh behind her hand, Aristorine scooped her baby up into the air. The sudden change in height had Amber shrieking in shock before she giggled happily, clapping her hands.
Perseus frowned, dropping the pillow. "Up." He crawled to Aristorine, tugging her dress. "Up."
Aristorine bent down to help Perseus climb onto her arm. The two three-year-olds loved to be held. Unfortunately, there will be a day when Aristorine can no longer carry the two together in her arms.
Time passes too quickly.
"Let's read a book." She suggested quietly, making her way to Amber's bed. The sun was starting to set anyway, and she saw Perseus yawning a minute ago. "Danaë is coming soon, anyway. You hear that, Perseus? Your mama is coming. Let's settle down and read a nice book before you and Am have to say goodbye, okay?"
He scrunched up his nose. "No." The demigod replied simply. "No goodbye."
When the two were born, it was evident they were either going to be worst enemies or best friends.
It was quite clear to anyone which one they were. Aristorine and Danaë have trouble separating the two when it's time to say goodbye.
Aristorine lived in Ephicca after all, and Danaë was creating a life of her own in Halonia as Achaia's advisor. Despite the small issue the two women had at the beginning, they grew to be amazing friends.
Danaë was a princess before she was a mother. She offered points to Achaia, seeing as they ruled differently. She helped Achaia through Issa's death, and that was enough to make the rest of the Mylirakian Royals accept her.
"You have to, eventually." Isadora appeared at the doorway, grinning at Aristorine.
A year ago, Isadora was done with her training in Myliraki and moved back to Kydria.
Qilin was still on the throne of Lissanthus, simply because Isadora has spent most of the time either with Aristorine or Aura. Or with Perseus, ever since Danaë asked her to be his godmother.
Apparently, her quick thinking and decisiveness made a lasting impression. Danaë trusted Isadora to protect her son.
Perseus and Amber gave each other the side-eye.
Amber's eyes were quickly filling with tears. "No, mama." Her precious little girl nudged her forearm. "No. No let him leave. Mama, please!"
If it were only Aristorine here, she would have completely melted. Hey, she was a mother with the most adorable baby in the world, okay? She's a softie and she isn't ashamed to admit it.
However, Isadora was unmoved. "Danaë is going to miss her boy." She told Amber while walking to them and taking Perseus in her arms. "He has to- hey!"
Isadora flinched, dropping Perseus. A mint hurricane appeared in thin air, the shard of Hali glowing. Perseus threw his arms up in wonder as he floated in mid-air. Isadora scowled, rubbing her hands. Angry red marks started to show. The boy had electrocuted her. She nearly injured Perseus. At the tender age of three, such a height could have permanently damaged him. If it wasn't for the fact she has had Hali for close to a millenia now, and was able to use Adira's power instinctively, Danaë may have her head. Worse of all, Isadora wouldn't have blamed her.
"Perseus!" Aristorine gasped, putting Amber on one of the oversized pillows. She grabbed Perseus and the hurricane vanished. The boy cocked his head, looking up at her with an innocent smile. "You hurt Isadora." She scolded lightly.
The boy shrugged. "Sorry."
Isadora ended up forgiving him. There was no way she could not forgive him.
He's a sweetheart despite his devious acts. They both were. In just three years, they had won the hearts of everyone. Amber wasn't a surprise, but there were many reservations for Perseus, seeing as he is the son of Zeus and Danaë had some blood of Zeus in her, as a descendent of Io.
Still, with his innocent acts and childishness, it wasn't hard for people to look beyond their prejudice against Zeus and fall in love with the little avenger.
The two Proélefsi worked quickly, singing lullabies until the two were fast asleep.
Aristorine pulled the blanket higher. "Danaë will understand." She said, casting a look of adoration at them. "It'll be good if they woke up and saw the other."
"Amber and Perseus." Isadora said. "They'll be the best of friends."
"Or worst enemies." Aristorine countered. "Do not forget what Adira has said. Perseus will die after living a happy and satisfied life. He will die on Earth, in the kingdom of his grandfather, with a beautiful and loving wife."
Sometimes, she regretted bringing life to Earth. Amber is immortal, it is not a choice. Aristorine and Lysander, although mortal from the start, have lived far longer as immortals, and that has affected Amber.
Perseus is the only happy demigod to have died a peaceful death, but it won't make things any easier for Amber.
When he dies, she will mourn. She will have to live the rest of her life remembering Perseus. She will have to live hundreds of centuries. One day, she will even forget him, and she will hate herself for it.
Aristorine knew that best. She was beginning to forget Elpis. The Hall of the Lost helps. It copies the memories of the ones you've lost and preserves it so that you can watch it over and over again. Maybe Perseus will have a statue of his own, and one day, Aristorine will have to drag Amber out of the room.
Being a mother hurts, she decides, watching her child sleep, naive and blind to the world's cruelty. But she doesn't regret it.
When the day comes for Amber to lose her very first friend, Aristorine will be there.
And it won't be easy, but they will heal from this.
The life of a demigod is tragic, yes. Not just for them, but the people around them.