love is love baby ₊˚⊹ᰔ

“There’s no question about it!” Hermes giggles and throws his arms up in a gleeful cheer, righting himself vertically, before turning his full attention onto Athena. The goddess of wisdom is, somewhat taken aback by the sudden shift in his demeanour; there was almost a threat hidden in his glowing eyes, “I’ve already given her my blessing, after all. Whoever dares harm her from now on will be answering to me,”

“But why?” Athena presses, always one to ask for an explanation; her mind simply can’t comprehend how capricious Hermes’ actions are, “Because she’s a great traveller from another world? Can it only be that?”

“I believe we have a winner, ladies and gentlemen!” Hermes announces with a laugh, his gesticulations presenting as if he were addressing a nonexistent audience. "That and she's very, very entertaining to watch." Hermes thinks about the way you captured an enormous fish and presented it to the crew as if it were an ordinary carp. The recollection makes Hermes laugh with his full body, clutching at his stomach as his knees tuck up and curl him into a compressed ball of laughter before tearfully recalling the incident in great detail. "Please tell me you were there to witness it too." Hermes pleads, whipping the tears from his eyes.

Athena was hesitant to answer at first, but eventually confesses with a sigh and a look of embarrassment, “…yes… I was there, perched up on a tree.”

"Annnd?…"

"And what?"

"Was it funny, sister?"

"…yes…"

Hermes laughs aloud once more, the tears of laughter return to his eyes once again, and Athena feels a shift in the burden resting on her heart. Despite her brother's silly antics, his simple-minded nature had an annoyingly reassuring effect, especially when she knew that, despite his shortcomings, he wasn't one to abandon his hand-selected champion.

Once her brother's laughter subsides enough, Athena gives a final —albeit half-hearted— warning. “Just don’t harass the poor girl,” Athena looks at you with sympathy; she knows there's no stopping Hermes's mischief.

“I'll try, but you know me better than that, darling~” Hermes giggles as Athena rolls her eyes. At least he'll try.

⊹ ࣪ ﹏𓊝﹏𓂁﹏⊹ ࣪ ˖

Marshal hops over, along with Filbert and Poppy, all three squirrels snuggling up to your form in an effort to express how much they missed you. Their affectionate words swirl into a cacophony of voices you hear directly in your mind. Were they communicating with you telepathically? 

“How did you all get here?” you ask without a voice, simply keeping the question in your head and experimenting with the communication.

“We’ve always been here, silly. It’s our island home, after all,” Shino adds, coming up to your sitting form and nuzzling her nose into your hair. She looked majestic with her white fur, pink nose, and red horns. You can still see the reddish colour brushing the edges of her eyes, highlighting her amber gaze. 

“But it’s strange,” Mitzi comments, licking at her paws adorably, “something feels different, somehow, especially after that flying man urged us into the storage shed. Is this really our same island?”

Hermes... you think, supposing they’ve been sent here through him. It makes you wonder if he’s also the reason you arrived. No, that can’t be. He didn’t know you when you first met, so how could he possibly be responsible for bringing you into this world? Perhaps the appearance of your villagers was a part of his blessing.

“All that matters is that we’re finally together again,” Filbert cuts in, snuggling further into you as the others join with hums of agreement. It makes you smile to see such familiar, sweet faces. You miss their adorable character designs, but it was fascinating to see them as normal animals for once, though they didn’t quite look the part. Their atypical colouring remained, so they look more like fantasy creatures to you. Perhaps that was fitting; you’ve grown quite a reputation amongst the crew, so your villagers’ unusual appearance may lead them to believe that they are your close friends.

“Cha-chomp! We missed you,” Fang snaps his jaws in an almost intimidating display, but you know he’s a sweetheart. Rather than shrink back in fear of his very sharp teeth, you smile and reach up to lovingly scratch at his ear. In his true form, Fang was a menacing size, but his beautiful grey coat looked so fluffy — you couldn’t help cooing at him and the way his ears flicked in delight from your scratches.

“It’s a relief to find you again,” Gaston comments, hopping up to your legs, where he brings a small furry hand up to pat your knee. He’s sweet for saying that, but the obvious moustache the yellow rabbit retained was hilarious to you. He’s accompanied by Chrissy, however, who no longer adorns her pink and white polka dot head garment and leggings, leaving her looking like an ordinary white bunny. It was quite unusual, but you suppose they all look unusual without their clothing.

“Don’t laugh! We thought we lost you!” Chrissy huffs, crossing her arms and stomping her foot in emphasis. 

“I’m sorry, Chrissy, I missed you too.” Chrissy, ever the kind-hearted bunny, immediately unfolds her arms and smiles happily at you. You’ve already been forgiven; she’s never one to hold a grudge.

“If you’re all here, does that mean—” A hoot cuts you off, and you look up to smile widely at a familiar-looking pair of owls perched along a tree branch. The owl siblings are accompanied by a pigeon whose feathers make it look as though it has a moustache as well and is wearing a suit. “Blathers! Celeste! Brewster!” The bushes shake below, and out pops Tom Nook, accompanied by Timmy, Tommy, the Able sisters, and Isabelle. Timmy and Tommy looked adorably miniature, standing next to Tom, who stood high and greeted you with a friendly wave. Isabelle also waved at you, her tail contentedly swishing from side to side. “I can’t believe you’re all here,”

“We’d follow you anywhere,” Isabelle comments, and you smile at each other.

“So good to see you, my dear,” Blathers greets with an accompanying hoo.

 “Yes, yes,” Tom Nook agrees, but scratches at his head almost nervously, “but what’s happened to the island?” 

Giving him an apologetic look, you try your best to explain, “I’m sorry, Tom. I know it looks quite different, but I assure you that everything’s okay. It’s well taken care of. We actually have an amazing number of visitors settled here currently.”

“Oh?” Tom and Isabelle share a proud look. “That’s brilliant! Business is booming!” You giggle at his words and nod along, happy to have settled him down.

“Have you seen the stars? They’re so beautiful tonight!” Celeste comments, and you look up in anticipation of any shooting stars, but there are none. However, you couldn't help but notice an unusually still, opaque cloud hovering above you. Peculiar… 

“I suppose they do look extra bright tonight.” Looking around, you smile at the sight of everyone and slowly stand with your squirrel friends still tucked up in your arms. “How about we have a sleepover at my place?” you suggest, earning a cheer from everyone.

“Hoo-Hoo! That would be lovely!” Blathers comments, a dreading look overcoming him for a moment, “I do so hate the outdoors, but can’t find my museum anywhere!”

“Mi casa es tu casa,” you invite them all inside as Marshal shivers in excitement before pulling a smug look.

“I see you’ve picked up some of my speech habits. Of course you would. I’m quite the influencer. And you’re too kind, Sulky, thank you.” Marshal instantly recognised the phrase you used and wiggled in happiness from his positive impact.

⊹ ࣪ ﹏𓊝﹏𓂁﹏⊹ ࣪ ˖

The next morning, you make your way to the crew with breakfast already prepared and stored from your home kitchen. All animals trail along behind you, eager to meet the new friends you told them of the night before and this morning: all 600 men of Odysseus’ fleet. It might be overwhelming for them at first, but you know that their sweet disposition will make them fast friends with the crew. Hopefully, the men wouldn’t be too put off by your villagers’ odd colours. The only normal-looking villagers you have are Fauna, Chrissy, Fang and the Nook family.

“Fair Maiden!” came a shout, and you turn to gasp at the image of Odysseus aiming his bow and arrow at Fang (a large, grey wolf) while Eurylochus points his large sword at Boots (your gym-bro alligator). Rushing forward, you open your arms out in defence, shielding your harmless villagers from harm. If you could shout in protest, you would, but all you could manage is a frightful look that immediately makes the two lower their guard ever so slightly.

“Wh-wha—?” Odysseus voices, unable to comprehend what’s happening, but Polites rushes to your side, opening his arms beside you. He knows exactly what you’re trying to convey.

“Captain! The Fair Maiden doesn’t want these animals harmed!” Polites’ voice is loud and firm, an immediate assurance to you that he was on your side, no questions asked, “Please lower your weapons!”

“But—!” Eurylochus tries to protest, knowing the potential danger that you could be in. Seeing the conflict in the sword-wielding man’s eyes, you shake your head insistently and gesture to your villagers and yourself before pointing between you and Polites. Everyone then watches as you end your non-verbal statement by taking Polites’ hand into yours and giving it a shake. The gesture solidifies Polites' resolve as he connects the dots right away; with this, it’s easy to understand you.

“I believe that the fair maiden means to express that these animals are her friends. Please do not harm them.” Polites voices for you, bringing a smile to your face. You can't resist hugging him tightly to show your gratitude; you can always count on him to understand you. Polites laughs and pats your head affectionately. To emphasise your point, he takes a knee and reaches out a hand, inviting your animal friends to meet him halfway. Not long after, he has Mitzi purring as she nuzzles his hand with her head as Fang trots forward and curiously sniffs at Polites' hair, making the third commander laugh. Finally, Odysseus and Eurylochus lower their weapons and apologise with a bow of their heads. 

“We apologise sincerely for over-reacting and causing you distress, Fair Maiden. We won’t bring harm to your animal friends again, I assure you,” Odysseus looks at you, his eyes flooded with resolve to keep his word.

 “A-are you sure they’re friendly? They don’t seem it at all,” Poppy squeaks and hops over to your leg, hugging your ankle in her short height as her sweet face presses into the folds of your skirt. She’s joined by Filbert, who hugs your opposite ankle with a tearful whimper on his lips.

 “S-so scary...”

“How unusual,” Odysseus observes, taking in Poppy and Filbert’s unusually coloured fur. He quickly moves on to observe the strange appearance of the other animals that have followed you as well. Some looked normal, some looked magical, and then there was a yellow bunny who looked like he had a very thick moustache, and Odysseus had to stifle his laughter.

“They are not like any other creatures I’ve seen before…” Eurylochus adds as the rest of the crew strain their necks to get a look, all of them humming in agreement as soon as they realise how different the animals appear. They coo over your squirrel villagers as well as Chrissy, Mitzi and Fauna, for their sweet appearance. They gasp in wonder at Shino’s divine being. They shudder at Fang and Boots’ intimidating presence. And many had to stifle their laughter when seeing Gaston’s prominent moustache as well.

“No wonder you protect and care for them,” Polites comments, looking down at you with a kind smile as Mitzi purrs in his arms. “Are they also as otherworldly as you?” his words make you look away bashfully, earning a laugh from the headband-wearing third commander. He truly is astounded by you, to think that he would find someone who embodies his personal philosophies so well. It's only right to assume you are transcendental.

“We’ll make sure your animal friends don’t come to any harm,” Eurylochus assures, setting out to warn the back of the crew himself after you introduce him and the first few rows of Odysseus’ men to your villagers and the other occupants of the island: Blathers and Celeste snoozing away in a nearby tree while Brewster keeps a close eye on them; the Able sister nestled together adorably in the bushes; Tom Nook travelling together with Timmy and Tommy, who’ve climbed onto his back. To surmise, all animals that aren’t fish or bugs are under your protection.

After that frightful first impression, you’re happy to find the crew getting along with your villagers and vice versa. Your animal friends are truly so friendly; it’s in their nature to be kind, so it took no time at all for them to find new friends in the crew. It was a fun sight to see. The villagers still tended to gravitate towards you, however. And it took a while for the crew to get used to seeing such animals keeping you company, usually finding them trailing close behind you, the squirrels often hopping about your feet as you walked by.

At times, it was heartwarming to see you interact with the cute animals. A beautiful lady, smiling, cooing and petting the sweet furry creatures was an image that had soul-healing properties. It made you feel all the more magical to them, floating about the island with a sweet deer following after you, adorable squirrels and bunnies close behind. However, it was more than unnerving to witness you being accompanied by a large grey wolf, a snapping alligator and an albino deer with pointed, red horns, an unusual appearance for such a graceful species. This was an initial fear you treated by showcasing how friendly and sweet Fang, Boots and Shino actually were. 

Waving Perimedes over, you smile brightly as he brings Elpenor with him. The two were truly inseparable. "Y-yes, Fair Maiden?” Perimedes asks nervously, eyeing Fang and Boots, who flanked your sides, and quite politely so. Though that didn’t matter to Perimedes or Elpenor; all they saw were teeth, teeth and more teeth! 

“That one looks like he goes to the gym!” Boots praises Elpenor as he happily gazes at the man’s broad frame. Unfortunately, Elpenor wasn’t aware that the alligator’s interested gaze was one of admiration and not of hunger, making him tense up in fear. 

“You want us to make friends with them?” Fang asks, holding back his excitement as his tail begins to swish behind him in happiness. “Cha-chomp!” Fang snaps his jaws gleefully, unaware of his effect on the fearful, slightly shaking Perimedes, “Any friend of yours is a friend of ours!”

Taking Perimedes’ hand with the utmost care, you slowly bring his sweaty palm and shaking fingers to Fang’s soft fur. Fang’s delighted response is instantaneous. The large wolf leans into Perimedes’ touch and urges him to continue petting and scratching his ear with a tilt of his head.

“Oh...” Perimedes releases the breath he was holding and laughs in relief, eagerly scratching at Fang’s ear. The smile that grows on the blonde’s face is contagious.

“That’s a good scratch. Mmm~ A little to the left, please...” Fang snaps his jaws happily, leaning further into Perimedes’ hand, who quickly grows accustomed to Fang’s habit of chomping his jaws to express his happiness.

“Good boy,” Perimedes whispers, his gaze softening with fondness. He’s made a new friend. 

One down, one to go. You look at Elpenor, who seems to be having a staring contest with Boots. Behind him, Boots’ tail swishes from side to side, and you smile at his eagerness to make a new friend, too. Gently, you also take Elpenor’s hand and softly coax him into petting Boot’s head. The look you give Elpenor says everything he needs to know to follow your lead with confidence and trust in your actions. ’Everything will be okay,’ your eyes say to him.

“I-If you think it’s safe, Fair Maiden...” Elpenor nods and allows himself to be guided into petting Boots, who eagerly leans into his touch.

“His hands are calloused and strong!” Boots observes with a toothy smile, “That is evidence of his prowess in the gym! I think we’ll make good friends!” It didn't take any further prompting from you for the two to quickly become friends, also. The smile on your face cannot be outshone.

𓂃 ོ☼𓂃

“It seems everyone has a favourite!” Odysseus laughs, walking up to you as he’s accompanied by both Fauna and Shino. He looks at them fondly, “Curious how an archer has become good friends with deers of all creatures.” Fauna nudges his hand with her nose, urging him to pet her as Shino playfully butts her horns against his forearm. Odysseus complies by rubbing at the base of her horns and succumbing to Fauna’s gentle prompt for pets, “It seems I’ve found their weak spot.” You smile at the easy expression that takes over Odysseus’ countenance. In the days that pass, you find that the crew have grown an eagerness for petting your villagers, who make no complaints; they love the attention and the company of new friends. The crew smile easier and laugh much lighter than ever before. You liken it to the effect therapy animals have on veterans.

The hardened men can often be found taking care of and spending time with your villagers in various ways. It’s also clear that many have their personal favourites, as the captain had helpfully observed for you.

Odysseus is often followed around by Fauna and Shino. Fauna, your sweet and graceful deer with her gentle disposition, reminds him of the elegance his wife, Penelope, often holds herself with. Shino, however, makes him think of his son; she’s more playful and adventurous compared to Fauna, much like his little boy, Telemachus. Their presence is familiar, but also not. Nevertheless, they gave Odysseus some much-needed comfort and vice versa. Fauna and Shino adore being treated with such care and especially love the stories he tells them absentmindedly, his guard lowered by their presence.

Eurylochus, you’re surprised to see, has become good friends with your trio of squirrel villagers. All three have expressed to you how much they enjoy resting on his shoulders and even his head as he walks around. His height makes them feel tall and powerful! Marshal likens it to being perched on a walking tree. Poppy simply loves curling up in his large hand. She tells you it makes for the perfect bed to rest comfortably in. It also helps that Eurylochus often feeds them a share of his fruit rations. Filbert loves it especially; he’s a great lover of food. The tall, intimidating second commander can be seen resting against a tree as the three squirrels play about his gently smiling form. He looks at peace, fondly watching as they play around and on him — he’s become their personal playground.

“You feed them too much, friend,” Polites laughs while passing by with Mitzi in his arms, a perch the two of them have taken a habitual liking to. “I’m afraid that blue one will become too chubby.” It seems everyone’s picked up on Filbert’s food-loving tendencies.

“But don’t you think they look especially cute with their chubby cheeks, chewing away at the fruit? It feels even more satisfying when I feed them by hand,” Eurylochus points out, and the two admire the way the three small squirrels eagerly stuff their faces with slices of apples Eurylochus hands them, making their cheeks puff up adorably. Poppy and Marshal turn away contentedly after one or two slices, but Filbert has a bottomless pit for a stomach and happily eats everyone's share until there's none left.

“I suppose you’re right.” Polites grins and sits beside Eurylochus with Mitzi in his lap.

“I see you’re a cat person,” Eurylochus smirks at his friend.

“I’ve always been a cat person,” the two share a laugh. 

Mitzi and Polites have a very calming friendship. The two often fall asleep together wherever they may be. It all starts when Mitzi sits herself in Polites’ lap, and the kind third commander can’t help but coo and pet her adoringly. When enough time passes, Mitzi can be found gently purring in his lap as Polites lightly snores over her, the two of them finding the best rest in each other’s company.

Elpenor has grown a bond with Boots, thanks to your introductions. Boots had even helped him prank other crew members by patiently lurking in the bath waters and jumping out with a snap of his powerful jaws when an unsuspecting group came in to take their daily baths. Elpenor was chased around by those few traumatised men, but he found the prank worth the trouble. He laughed the entire time he was chased about.

Perimedes, on the other hand, was commonly seen with Fang, the two having immediately bonded thanks to you. They enjoyed each other’s company no matter what they may be doing together, whether it’s fishing, sitting around, sleeping under the sun or eating, they’ve become the best of friends. Together, the four of them have become quite the fearsome quartet.    

𓂃 ོ☼𓂃 

“Look! What’s that?!” a crew member shouts, and you look to see them pointing up at something in the sky. “It’s a bird!”

“No, it’s a floating red thing carrying a white box!” The helpful description provided by Lycaon makes you pull out your slingshot and take aim. You fire at the balloon three times, but it’s no use, and you watch as the balloon floats further away. With a huff, you shake your head miserably. Why were shooting balloons always so difficult for you? It’s even more difficult now that you’re having to shoot it down in real life. Before the balloon could get too far away, however, an arrow helpfully shoots it down for you. The shooter was Odysseus, who slings his bow over his head and wears it while bringing the gift box over to you. Smiling gratefully, you open the gift before handing him its contents.

“For me?” Odysseus asks, surprised, as he points to himself. You nod, and rather than urge the gift into his hands, you place the purple hyacinth crown onto his head instead. It matches his purple toga perfectly. Odysseus laughs and affectionately pats your head as Fauna and Shino prance about around you in celebration. “Thank you.” He silently vows to take special care of your gift. He hopes it never wilts.

𓂃 ོ☼𓂃 

You’ve already made the dresses and more for Penelope and Ctimene following Odysseus and Eurylochus’ request, and now you are collecting pretty shells for a little something extra. It would be nice for Odysseus and Eurylochus to craft something personally for their wives, too, something pretty to gift them when they arrive home again. It’s not an official recipe you know from ACNH, but it’s a simple craft. An unfussy but heartfelt accessory showcasing the pretty seashell collected from your island’s shores, lovingly prepared for their beautiful wives to wear. How romantic would that be?~ You want to help Ody and Eury be good husbands, so today, you’re trying to find the prettiest seashells for them to craft into necklaces or bracelets.

“Fair Maiden,” Polites calls, approaching you on the beach with a kind smile, the ends of his headband swimming in the sea breeze. “What are you up to out here?” he looks at the small collection of seashells you’ve managed to collect so far, your hands carefully cradling the precious beach decorations. “Those are very beautiful,” he admires your selection, leaning forward ever so slightly as he adjusts his glasses on the bridge of his nose. When he straightens again, Polites grins at you with unending merriment. “May I join you? I’ll help as best as I can.” Unable to say no, you nod your head instantly. It would be nice to have company, anyway, and Polites was always good company. For a while, you two collect seashells together with only the sound of waves to fill the space in between. There were a lot of shells available, but you were very selective about which ones you kept. Playing ACNH on your Switch made the seashells look identical to one another, but now that you were looking at them personally, each one was distinct and unique in its own way. Yes, there were similarly shaped ones, but looking closely, they were all very different. It was fascinating, and the adoration was visible on your face.

 That admiring visage of you as you stare down at the shells was something that Polites couldn’t help but admire. You’re too precious. You’re the good in the world that brings hope to his heart and many others. He will forever be grateful to you for preventing the horrific future that would have awaited his friend had you not appeared, nor had that theatre performance not played out for them. Polites can't count the number of times he's silently vowed to protect you for your kind nature and optimism, but he finds himself making the same vow once again, the more you two peacefully gather pretty shells. Polites looks into the distance when a glimmer catches his eye and moves to collect the shimmering glass bottle buried in the sand. There was a trinket inside that looked like something you would know what to do with better than him, so he kept the bottle closed and immediately returned to you. 

“I don’t have a shell but...” Polites offers the glass bottle sheepishly, not knowing what to expect from your reaction. With a silent gasp, you store away your collected, approved shells and clap in glee, happily receiving the bottle from Polites before hugging him as thanks. Polites laughs and hugs you back; your happiness at simple things is contagious. With you around, the harrowing memories and scars he acquired in the war are pushed far behind him. You bring a rare and precious peaceful quietness. And Polites can confidently say you have the same effect for Odysseus, Eurylochus and the crew too. You’re truly a blessing.

⊹ ࣪ ﹏𓊝﹏𓂁﹏⊹ ࣪ ˖

Poseidon has felt a strange disturbance in his ocean for quite some time now. It wasn’t threatening or dangerous, so he didn’t initially feel the need to investigate. However, the disruption to his waters has remained such a prominent irritation to the point that he could no longer resist ignoring it. He sets off to investigate the peculiarity in the early morning, hoping to finish his search as soon as possible.

When he approaches, Poseidon raises a brow. He doesn’t remember such a large island being located in this part of his ocean. It’s not even one he recognises; he’s never seen such greenery or landscapes before. Suddenly, there’s movement behind the trees lining the perimeter of the island, beyond the sandy beaches, and the sea god ducks into the ocean. Perhaps glimpsing a creature that occupies the island will give him some idea of its mysterious origins.

Stepping out of the tree line, you move to the sands to continue your seashell search for Odysseus and Eurylochus just before you meet the crew for breakfast, blissfully unaware of the fascinated stare pinning you down from the God of the sea. As Poseidon stays hidden amongst the waves, he smirks to himself, his eyes tracing your delicious curves, sweetly dressed in the loveliest dress he’s ever seen. He appreciates your silhouette thoroughly until his gaze finally lands on your beautiful face. What a beauty you are. Such a fine treasure he’s found within his ocean. He should have investigated the mysterious island sooner. You appear so sweet and kind, too, delicately picking up different seashells, appearing very selective of which ones you should keep for your precious hoard.

The new island no longer annoys him for disrupting his oceans; rather, Poseidon has found something else to be intrigued by. And he’s determined to make you his.

You don’t know how much time you spend picking and sorting seashells, but when you look up, all thoughts of your mounting seashell collection are forgotten. On the shore was a washed-up man in nothing but a simple cloth wrapped around his waist. His brown hair is long and wet from the salty ocean water, his skin a healthy sun-kissed colour, and his muscles prominently sculpted. From what little glimpses you see of his face hidden behind the strands of hair that fall over his features, you can tell that he’s handsome with a light shadow of stubble shaping his jaw.

As you approach him, unaware of his intentions and very conscious state, Poseidon wills his features to stay undisturbed. A fair maiden such as yourself will surely wake him gently and with a sweet voice; when he pretends to finally rouse from sleep, he’ll work his charms to lure you into a passionate night together. He will enjoy you thoroughly and savour your sweet sounds, for an angel like you is capable of creating nothing but dulcet tones.

…

…

…

Poseidon has gravely misjudged you, however.

As soon as you were kneeling beside him, rather than gently seduce him out of his slumber and kindly ask about his well-being in the soft voice he imagined you to have, you began to incessantly poke at his cheek instead. It was completely unexpected, and he couldn’t help the annoying twitch of his brow from the audacious gesture. The subtle action makes you temporarily stop your ceaseless prodding. But before Poseidon could breathe in respite, you start poking him again, this time, with much more force and speed. If he weren’t a god, he’s sure you’d have made the skin of his cheek bruise already. Is this really how you go about waking an injured man?! It’s not at all what Poseidon expected, ignorant of your experience with washed-up seagull pirates. The only way you knew how to wake Gulliver (the seagull pirate) or Gullivarrr (the seagull pirate captain) was to constantly pester them, which obviously meant poking their unconscious forms until they woke up.

“I’m awake! I’m awake!” Poseidon sits up with an irritated grumble, swatting at your hand and squinting his eyes at you. He’s sorely misjudged you. Perhaps he should leave?

(Distantly, a giggle can be heard, and your ears perk up ever so slightly.)

Despite his earlier irritation, Poseidon is struck once again by your beauty. Up close, you’re stunning, especially when you’re smiling so kindly at him and him alone. Because of your bewitching image, Poseidon was willing to forget about your rude, unending poking.

“What a beauty you are...” The handsome stranger’s brown eyes examine your face, slowly tracing your features with his eyes as he slowly brings a hand up to cup your cheek. His touch was so unexpected that you startle ever so slightly. The stranger appears to take pleasure in your surprise; however, chuckling to himself as his hand leaves your cheek to pick up your hand and bring your knuckles to his lips, “Tell me,” his lips don’t leave your skin as he looks up to meet your eyes with an impassioned stare, “what is your name, my lady?” 

Smiling apologetically, you shake your head and point to your throat. “Oh? You cannot speak?” Poseidon frowns as you confirm his supposition with a nod. He was so looking forward to hearing your voice and relishing in the beautiful melody you would sing for him under his touch.

“No matter.” Poseidon eventually accepts the fact and leans forward, inching his face close to yours as you lean back slightly. “I remain grateful to you for saving my life.” The stranger’s eyes briefly glance down at your prettily shaped lips, “Allow me to convey my gratitude.” Your eyes widen as the bold stranger tries to close the gap between you, but before he can reach your lips with his own, you’re swept up by a pair of strong arms that fly you into the air. Gasping silently, you wrap your arms over your captor’s shoulders, fearful of the height he’s flown you to.

“I should have known you were nothing but trouble~” A familiar voice teases, punctuating his statement with a devious giggle. Hermes! Looking up, you gape at the Messenger god who smugly grins at you. His arms carry you like a princess, ensuring that your dress doesn’t fall and reveal more of yourself to the men below. “How greedy of you to have captured the attention of my Uncle as well.” Hermes' words make your brows fly up in surprise before you hurriedly look down and gasp once more at the scene happening below. His uncle?! Did he mean...?

Odysseus is pissed. You had taken longer than usual to meet everyone for breakfast, and they had grown anxious about your whereabouts. Initially, your safety wasn’t much of a concern as they knew your island to be incredibly safe; however, those foolish thoughts were immediately swept away as soon as they found you at the beach with a stranger, who was getting far too close for comfort.

“Allow me to convey my gratitude.” At those exact words, Odysseus had fired his arrow, narrowly missing the strange man’s feet. It was a warning shot. Odysseus wasn’t one to miss his target, especially not one that is so unsuspecting and easy, but he would endanger you if he aimed straight at the man — you were far too close to him, and Odysseus didn’t want to risk you getting injured too. 

“Captain!” Polites points him towards your form up in the air and in the arms of another familiar god, “The Fair Maiden is safe,” his third commander hands him another arrow, “You’re free to take a second shot.” Polites’ voice grows chilly, deprived of his characteristically warm friendliness. He generally wasn’t the type to encourage such mercilessness; rather, he would have encouraged everyone to hear out the stranger. But Odysseus won’t complain; he knows the level of affection Polites and the rest of his crew had fostered for you, viewing you as a daughter, a sister, a saint and many other kind depictions — of course, this level of protectiveness was to be expected. 

“Aim for his throat,” Eurylochus strategised, his tone stern and calculating as he readies his sword, “While he chokes on his blood, I’ll move in to sever his head clean off his shoulders.” Odysseus didn’t appreciate being ordered around most of the time, but he didn’t mind it for right now. At least you were safe for the moment. He’ll deal with Hermes later.

“Wait! Wait!” Odysseus freezes in place, along with everyone else who recognises the plea from the musical quite some time ago but still remembers it so vividly. The same musical that had revealed their potential future had made it easy to recognise such a voice. It couldn’t be…

 The stranger’s very human features slowly melt away to reveal the God of the sea. The man’s brown hair becomes an opaque black as the skin of his neck grows gills and his ears become fin-shaped. The cloth around his waist falls away to reveal the beginnings of a fishtail. Looking down, his tail can be seen seamlessly merging with the ocean waves lapping at the sandy beach, which pulls him into the ocean and stands him tall, held up by the sea below.

“Poseidon...” Eurylochus acknowledges as everyone takes on a battle stance behind him, their faces weary but determined.

“You made an oath not to interfere with my journey home!” Odysseus snaps at the sea god. His words made Poseidon grit his teeth in annoyance.

“I know...” 

“Why aren’t you keeping your promise?!”

“I am keeping it! You have had easy oceans so far, and when you set out to sea again for the rest of your journey home, they will be safe also. The girl is different; she has no association with you—” The look Odysseus sends him makes the god stammer ever so slightly. You are associated with Odysseus. What a mistake this was.

“If you touch her, you will be interfering with our journey home. She is our Fair Maiden and has been a wondrous blessing on our voyage so far! Touch her, and you’ll be breaking your oath!” 

Poseidon looks up to see you in the arms of his nephew, whose usually smiling countenance disappears as soon as they meet eyes. You are a precious being not only to the man who tormented him in a potential future but are also held dearly by his nephew. This doesn’t spell well. You appeared to be such an innocent lady; how did things turn out to be like this?

“She’s off limits, uncle.” Hermes states firmly, his arms tightening their hold on you, “And she has my blessing. I’m sure you know what that means...” Even Hermes’ words make Odysseus and the crew’s eyes widen in shock. Just as surprised as Poseidon. When did Hermes bless you? Had you been associated with the Messenger god this whole time?

“Fine!” Poseidon concedes, his reluctant acceptance punctuated by the momentary violent action of the ocean waves below, “I will leave you be.” As he disappears into the sea, Poseidon gives you one last, longing glance. Yet again, he was at a loss. How disappointing…

As soon as Poseidon vanishes into the ocean’s depths, you look to Hermes with a smile, a small thank you for his help. “You’re very welcome, darling~” he coos, but appears reluctant to let you go. It isn’t until Odysseus and the crew have fixed their eyes on you that he finally descends. “My my~ what a surprising turn of events.” Hermes brings a light-hearted air with him. 

“Thank you, Hermes,” Odysseus smiles gratefully to the god. He was one of the only gods to be of help to him in the musical, and it appears he’s sustaining that reputation. It only irks the King of Ithaca that Hermes seems to have made contact with you already, without him or anyone else knowing, and given you his blessing. 

“Don’t thank me, friend~” Hermes turns his full attention to you, gently setting you down, “I didn’t do it for you particularly...”

‘Thank you for your help, Hermes,’ you voice in your head, knowing the god can hear your words clearly. 

“Of course, my fair lady~” Levitating several inches above the ground, Hermes bows graciously at the waist for you, smiling an easy smile. “But don’t you suppose that I should be rewarded for my efforts?” he teases and leans forward as you tilt your head in curiosity. As soon as his lips were next to your ear, he whispered his desires, "Catch another fish, a bigger one this time and present it to the crew again. I want to see the silly faces they'll pull again." His actions make Odysseus splutter in disbelief as several, spectating crew members do their best to close their gaping mouths from shock.

'…Are you serious?' You give him a sceptical look, unable to comprehend how that would benefit him at all, but Hermes just laughs, observing the crew's reaction from over your shoulder. He meant to get a rise out of the crowding audience, and to his delight, he had succeeded; his devious nature wouldn’t permit him to leave otherwise. Now that he has, he was content to leave and watch from afar as you go about fulfilling his request whenever you see fit.

"Don't keep me waiting too long now, darling~" Hermes teases as the wings fixed onto his sandals propel him further into the air and out of the reach of many. It was addictive seeing the silly reactions of the crew behind you; he can't help but squeeze as much out of them as possible.

Odysseus and the crew were too shocked to react as their minds raced with thoughts of what Hermes could have possibly asked you to do for him. Judging by his devious nature, their minds kept conjuring up worse and worse possibilities, and all were silently screaming into the void from within. Their nerves had been frozen up from being in the presence of two gods and at such close proximity, but those same nerves were quickly thawed by the heat of their rage. Immediately, they launch forward like a tidal wave and pull you into their circle, protected and safe from the unpredictable god. Hermes simply laughs and flies away with yet another teasing remark.

"Make it as good as it was the first time, darling!~"

Odysseus choked on air as his eyes bulged out. “THE FIRST TIME?!” You don't know where his mind had gone, but it definitely wasn't you catching a big fish and pocketing it as if it were a simple coin. When Odysseus finally makes his way to you, he comes dangerously close, his eyes wild with barely restrained rage and stern protectiveness. “You have some explaining to do, young lady.”

But…But I can’t talk! You wail internally, pulling a helpless expression, but Odysseus is undeterred. Hermes… you jerk!

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“Thank you, it’s all thanks to Otis and Alma, they taught me everything I know about plants.” You don’t pause in your work, focused yet still able to converse with him. By now, Ari can do nothing but stare at you, admiring your elegant way of working despite the churning of earth and the smell of compost in the air. There was just something very romantic to him about tending to a garden together with a beautiful lady who didn’t mind dirt. It was domestic, the very same domesticity Andy had always dreamed of living one day. Ari understood its appeal before, but now, he simply can't let it go. He only hopes that you're willing to stay…

“An amazing cook, clean, disciplined, intelligent, well-read, kind, hard-working and with a green thumb to boot. You’re a rather unusually decorated princess, aren’t you?” He chuckles at the bashful look you take on — very cute. The cutest.

“I suppose so,” You give a brief laugh to help ease the spreading timidity in your chest, “I was spoiled with many extracurricular teachings atop the royal education I received from the slew of palace staff. I owe all of my achievements to them and their willingness to back me despite my circumstances.”

“I’ll have to thank them one day,” Ari hums thoughtfully, unable to resist reaching out to gently sweep away the stray hairs that obscure your sweet face. 

“There’s no need to go that far.” The smile you give him is belied by sadness.

“You’ll see them again, Angel.” It wasn’t just words of assurance; it was a promise. Ari understands your deep desire to return and fulfil your role as the princess, rightful heir to the throne. He knows you’ll make a brilliant queen one day, and he wouldn’t dream of ever forcing you away from it. 

However, he was also just as determined to make you theirs, his, a part of the pack. He knows you’re the one; never before had he seen his pack so relaxed and happy: Steve’s shoulders no longer draw up with as much tension as he used to; Curtis can actually be seen smiling when you’re around; Jake has someone he can converse with about magic and expel that excess energy on so he can be a little more windless; Andy can finally taste that domestic life he’s always wanted and with someone who he can talk to without his defences up; you also managed to get through to Ransom, who now follows you around like a lost puppy at times; even Lloyd was beginning to let his guard down, wearing a subtle softness they didn't know he was capable of around you. And all it took was to spend some days with you — a week hadn't even passed yet.  

You appreciate his consoling words, but it’s impossible to even dream of returning. Shaking your head, you return the conversation to what's present. “I think we’re done…”

“You did a good job. I’m sorry for not helping as much despite it being my job to persist with the upkeep of the gardens — it was my request after all. I suppose my mind was elsewhere.” He leans down to press a kiss to your knuckles, undeterred by the dirt on your fingers, but you hurry to pull your hand away before he can. 

“Ari! M-my hands are dirty—!” The large man chuckles at your frantic words and shrugs his shoulders. 

“Nothing about you is dirty, not even after doing some gardening,” he winks, and you’re forced to look away as he succumbs to your protest and pulls you up instead, his fingers intertwined with yours. Before you could blink twice, he leaned down and softly kissed your cheek. A dizzying heat gathers above your neck, sending you spiralling into the heavens, but, not wanting to embarrass yourself, you clear your throat and easily pull away from his fingers and proximity. “How about I make you a proper bed today?” 

“What do you mean?”

“It doesn’t feel right letting an angel like you simply take the sofa each night, so I’ve been thinking about making something that could extend it and make a proper bed for you. Would you like that?… I’ve already taken some rough measurements and made blueprints.”

“Isn’t that a lot of work?” you ask with a tilt of your head, trying to ignore the flutter of your heart at his thoughtfulness. All while he resists the urge to pull you into a tight embrace. You ignite something feral in him, something that makes him want to treat you preciously — it was quite an addictive feeling. 

“Not for me it’s not, and especially not when it comes to doing something for you.”

“Would you like some help?” you ask helpfully, ignoring the racing heartbeat drumming against your ears at the sight of his toothy grin.

“I won’t be asking you to do much, but I would appreciate the company.”

The answer was obvious. “Of course!”

You don’t think you’ll be able to say no to him or the rest of the pack. It would be a lie to say that you haven’t grown attached to them in the little time you’ve spent at their cottage. Soon, you find yourself perched on a wooden bench as Ari measures out planks of wood with a pencil tucked over his ear before he grabs a saw and starts working on the wood. You were surprised to find that he had some magical tools on hand, too, making the woodwork much easier for him. Nearby, you’re kept busy with one of Curtis’ shirts this time. The seams had come undone in areas indicative of the large alpha's sheer size, and you were all too happy to help mend the broken stitches. At times, you had to resist the urge to gather the material in your arms, hold it close and breathe in his lingering scent — it appears as though you find Curtis' scent as calming and addictive as he found yours.  

For a while, the air was filled with comfortable silence that neither of you was rushing to break, silently enjoying one another’s company as you crafted together. There were occasions, however, when you would stop your needlework to admire Ari’s craftsmanship from afar, and he would do the same for you, admiring the way you were seated so gracefully, back pin straight, shoulders drawn into an elegant line, chin never tilted too low, and your eyes focused with a small smile on your lips. You looked at peace, fixing up Curtis’ shirt, carrying the air of a refined lady as you did so. It made his heart skip. Everything you did seemed to further reinforce how well you fit into the pack with the rest of his mercenary team. 

“Princess?” 

“Yes, Ari?”

“May I ask you a question?”

“You just did~” you sing and giggle sweetly when you look up and find him giving you an unamused but playful look, “Go on then, Ari, what is it?”

“What are your thoughts on a pack?” The skilled carpenter returns his focus to the wooden frame he was gradually fixing together, trying to appear nonchalant despite centring his hearing on your voice. 

“What do you mean?”

“What are your thoughts on them in general? Are you the type who would appreciate being a part of a pack? If you could return to rule, would you like to rule with a pack backing you?” 

His prompts give you food for thought, and you take a moment to think over his questions before answering. You don’t know what it is, but you feel as though these questions are important to him somehow, so you didn’t want to give him any simple or generic answer. 

“Well…I think that anyone who is a part of a pack is very lucky. Because of the pheromone-suppressing jewellery everyone is made to wear by law, they’re becoming more and more rare, but also very special. When a pack is formed nowadays, it’s with so much more meaning and a deeper bond, not just innate need and desires. It’s very romantic,” you begin to smile at the thought, almost pausing in your threading as your mind gets swept up in the idea of packs, focusing on one pack in particular. “I’ve thought of becoming part of a pack many times before, and it would be a privilege to rule with one backing me on the throne. It’s only dependent on whether I find a pack trustworthy enough to help me rule justly like my father. Unfortunately for him, he could not search for and form a proper pack with my mother after her death. It’s regrettable that his first attempt at changing that was with my step-mother, however.” Before your smile could turn sour, you turned your gaze up at Ari, who was looking at you fondly, the affection in his eyes and smile so warm and soft that it made you want to look away. “Nevertheless, I would be honoured to form a pack and rule with one.”

Ari nods and pauses thoughtfully before asking his most burning question. “Does it matter to you if they were of noble blood or not?”

“I believe that anyone could make a great ruler if given the chance and education. King Leto was an illegitimate son, but he ruled fairly and allowed his kingdom to prosper after succeeding to the throne of King Kloros, who was not his biological father. That alone says it all.”

“That’s very open-minded of you,” Ari praises and you return to working your needle just to avoid his admiring stare. 

“It’s all thanks to my father; he’s always told me that as long as there is true love and support within a pack, they will be able to rule peacefully, which will also allow their kingdom to flourish. ‘Flourish like the love they have for each other’ was what he said.” 

“Your father was a very wise and altruistic man. I wish we all could have met him.” 

You smile gratefully, “Thank you. I’m sure he would have liked you and the rest of the boys as well.”

“That means a lot, angel, thank you.”

Jake whistles, impressed and shakes his head, smirking in amusement. “Those two are on a roll~” Andy smiles subtly beside him, hands on his hips, as he helps coordinate those out on the field remotely via the magical device Jake equipped them with. On the table before them lay an organised mess of maps and blueprints, along with a singular list of recorded replicas they were able to compile on previous missions.

“You barely have anything to do, Curt. You alright with that?” Andy chuckles, his tone filled with amusement. He knows Curtis won’t take it to heart. 

“They can do all the hard work, I’ll make sure they don’t do anything stupid.” Curtis’s voice comes through strong and deep, every word spoken with purpose despite the traces of equal mirth in his voice. 

“I guess it was a good call for me to stay behind,” Ransom muses aloud as Jake snickers beside him. The two of them were in charge of overseeing the notes the team had made in their last research efforts on the matter and providing additional context for Andy’s coordination of the team. “I’d have absolutely nothing to do otherwise.”

Steve and Lloyd were determined to follow through on your request. Steve usually remained at the base to better oversee operations, but insisted on putting himself on the field with Lloyd and Curtis. Lloyd, the usually ruthless assassin, was especially merciless in his execution of the day’s mission. Before they embarked, Steve and Andy both postulated that it would take several days to destroy all of the duplicate mirrors they had located. However, with Lloyd’s obstinate stance on getting as much done as possible alongside Steve’s efficiency and Curtis’ proficient support, they were on track to complete the mission in one day. They didn’t waste time being too careful and systematically moved from one location to the next, following Steve’s carefully mapped route of efficiency. Meanwhile, Curtis stuck to what he did best: guarding the perimeter of their operations and ensuring things went to plan. 

The group collectively staved off lunch to allow the manoeuvring trio to complete the mission they were determined to complete in as little time as possible. It helped that many of the mirrors were being created in only a few places; most of the mission relied on stealth and efficient execution of mirror demolition—it was enough to break the mirror and steal away the powerful magic jewels that powered them; any blueprints or plans that were nearby were also swiftly snatched for Jake’s curious mind to pull apart later on. The papers would be evidence as well in the prosecution of those involved in the replica's development and, hopefully, lead them to pursue the reigning Queen.

“That was impressive,” Andy hums as Steve, Lloyd, and Curtis walk through their city base’s doors. Jake clapped from where he sat, a wide grin stretched across his face as Curtis silently moved over to hand him the various mirror blueprints and plans he had collected. The silent guard then meets Steve and Andy at the centre table, where they proceed to file through the slew of evidence he had helpfully collected. Lloyd sat by the wide tables to resharpen his knives and take a quick inventory of his weapons.

“We can’t do this on an empty stomach,” Andy places a hand on Steve’s shoulder, knowing that their Captain was willing to power through tasks and use their urgency as an excuse to linger in the guilt of mistreating you the day things came to a head. “And we don’t eat unless our Captain does,”

Steve sighs and shakes his head, “You’re all free to eat; this needs to be done as soon as possible.” A pause follows as all eyes fall on the Captain. Lloyd can see the reflection of self-reproach in Steve’s eyes, but says nothing. “We still have three additional noble manors to infiltrate, and she personally requested that we do this for her…”

“She also woke up early to prepare our lunch again, regardless of what happened the day before,” Andy says matter-of-factly, and Steve lets out a cross between a huff and a humourless chuckle—something to ease the tension in his neck from the invisible weight burdening his stiff shoulders.

“I don’t believe she even gave us a time limit, did she?” Ransom points out with a bored look on his face, leaning his chin against his palm. 

“…fine. Lunch first, then straight to work.”

“Aye aye, Captain!” Jake salutes him gleefully, eager to devour whatever you had lovingly prepared for them today, too.

Always eager, Jake is the first to open up his lunch box, not even for the food but simply to read the precious note that was always tucked away inside it. ‘Thinking of you always, I hope this hits the spot.’ The nerdy beta lets out a dreamy sigh before grinning widely, unable to conceal how happy you make him, even through a short and simple note.

"Her lunches will always hit the spot for me." With that, the genius beta begins to dig into his lovingly packed lunch, guilt-free — to the envy of two alphas in particular.

"Hey look~" Ransom teases, turning his love note over for his fellow beta to read, eager to tease and bring a light-hearted air to the atmosphere.

Jake takes a moment to read Ransom's note as everyone else watches on in amusement. ‘Just a little fuel for my hard-working Beta.’

"She called me her Beta~" Ransom turns his nose up as Jake huffs and takes the chance to shove his own note in Ransom's face.

"Well, the princess says she's always thinking of me, so there!" As the two get into another petty argument that everyone knows won't go anywhere, they move on to their own lunches.

With a comforting pat on Steve's shoulder, Andy sits beside him and urges the captain to open his lunch as he goes about reading the sweet note tucked into his own. ‘You're my favourite reason to pack a yummy lunch. I hope you enjoy!’ Andy smiles to himself, bringing the note to his lips and giving it a soft kiss before carefully filing it away for safekeeping. He will never get tired of the domestic bliss you so easily provide. He knows the growing fondness in his chest is reaching immense levels, but Andy will happily succumb to its dominion — it was too late to turn back anyway.

Steve was hesitant at first, but across the way, he could see that Curtis was determined to wait until Steve took a bite to unpack and eat his lunch himself. Somewhat grateful for that silent pressure, a signature of Curtis, Steve slowly unpacks his lunch with a heavy hand and turns the note towards his eyes. At first, he admires your neat penmanship, doing his best to delay reading your sweet words, certain that they would warm his heart…which will, undoubtedly, worsen his guilt. But he could only admire your writing for so long until the letters turned into words and the words turned into a coherent sentence. ‘I appreciate all you do, please don't forget to eat.’ Sighing, Steve blinks away the sting of tears and lowers his head to take a bite of the delicious meal you had prepared to fuel him. He must complete your request today so that he can return and apologise to you properly — what a coward he's been as of late… he still cannot believe he was cruel towards someone who had suffered so much and yet continues to reserve their gentleness and kindness. He was undeserving. However, the slew of negative emotions pushes him forward to complete the mission and apologise to you sincerely upon his return. 

As soon as Curtis sees his captain take a bite of your lovingly prepared lunch, he gives a soft hum of satisfaction and finally opens up his boxed lunch. But first, your note. "A little love from home, just to keep you going. See you soon." Curtis smiles to himself, almost purring from your sweetness through the paper. How truly precious you are. It brings him great pleasure to work hard just to come home to you. He doesn't care that you're a princess; it doesn't change the fact that you are someone he would protect with his life, and he would do whatever to make you happy.

It takes a long time for Lloyd to finally open his lunch, using the maintenance and care for his knives as an excuse to delay it, but he can't ignore his grumbling stomach forever. When everyone else was already halfway through their lunches, he finally opened up his own. He's tempted to dismiss your note, but he can't bring himself to scorn you further than he already (wrongfully) has. Taking a quick peek, the words on the little note make his heart shatter with self-loathing and regret. ‘Here's a little something tasty to say I appreciate you.’

Ari refused to eat his lunch when you had yet to make yours, and so had followed you into the kitchen to help quicken the cooking process so that you could eat together in good time. As was habit, in the process of cooking food for yourself, you begin to think about what to have for dinner later tonight. You consider the wide variety of ingredients that are on offer in their pantry and fridge, and the time it will take to make each dish. Tonight's menu occupies most of your thoughts while cooking, all the way up until you're sitting next to Ari, who's more than ready to eat his lunch with you, his lovingly written note already tucked into his breast pocket.

"Go get 'em tough stuff, I believe in you!" his note said. And Ari couldn't help but chuckle to himself — you're too cute for words. As you set your plate of food down to sit next to him, he leans over to nuzzle his nose affectionately behind your ear.

"Thank you, always, for your sweet notes, darlin'. They make my day." his whispered words of gratitude make you blush and shy away, changing the subject so that his admiring eyes can ease off you.

"I-I’m thinking of making apple pie for dessert tonight!" Ari raises a curious brow and leans back. For a moment, he focuses on taking a bite of his lunch, but soon addresses the obvious.

"That’s the Captain’s favourite dessert."

"I know…" There's a pause as Ari tries to gauge your intentions. As kind as you are, you let his Captain and Lloyd off without much fuss, surely you weren't thinking of taking further steps into reconciliation before the two even get the chance to apologise properly?… You’re giving them too much grace. “Does Lloyd have any favourite foods?" 

Despite the clenching of his jaw, Ari answers. "…Yes…"

"May you tell me so I can cook them for tonight's dinner?"

"…what is this about, darlin’?" Ari turns to you with a conflicted stare. He refuses to answer your questions further. He can sense where you're trying to get at, and he didn’t like it. Omegas typically do take on a more subservient role, but they were beyond mere biology; the lawful requirement of dutifully wearing pheromone-suppressing jewellery was indicative of that.

"I just…" You sheepishly look away, using your fork to play with the food on your plate, "I want to assure them that they did nothing wrong, I was the one who had secrets—"

“No, no, angel." Ari turns his body to face you as much as possible, emphasising the seriousness of his words as he gently takes your chin and directs your gaze to meet his. "First of all, it’s not your job to reassure them for not having trusted you in the first place, we took you in knowing you had secrets, remember? And secondly, I don’t recall either of them ever properly apologising to you for that incident." Ari's tone remains firm throughout, and there's a fierce look in his eyes as he leans in close.

"But—"

"It’s not your job, darlin'." You feel his thumb brush over your cheek, his large hands moving gently to hold your face with utmost care. "You don’t need to do anything, let them apologise first; you can assure them then, okay?"

"…okay…" 

Ari kisses your temple softly and keeps his face pressed into your hair, "We don't deserve you, angel." He breathes in deeply, savouring your scent; your fragrance, a delicate mix of sweetness, soft florals and only good things. It's addictive for a hardened alpha like him. It's no wonder that Curtis often curls around you to press his face into your hair or neck. The stoic guard was satiating himself the only way he could around the sweetest omega they've ever had the pleasure of keeping close. "I don't deserve you…"

"Nonsense," you reply, smiling to yourself as you pull him close, your arms wrapped around his shoulders as you bury your face under his chin. "You deserve everything and more…"

Ari's heart stutters, and before he can catch himself, he blurts out the one thing that's been plaguing his heart since your arrival. "An omega…" Your breath stutters as you pull away to meet Ari's eyes, his face now holding a bashful expression, one that wasn't typical of his character. "Will you be my—?”

Your heart stutters, and before you can even think, you're already shaking your head ‘no’, cutting him off silently. Ari gives a small smile, one that doesn't quite reach his eyes and nods in acceptance before he focuses his attention on the lunch you had prepared for him.

"Ari, I'm s—"

"What did I say about apologising for things you don't need to apologise for?" Ari gives you a playfully stern look, the sadness from his eyes no longer visible behind the spirited glow that had overtaken them. Was he back to his usual self—or hiding behind a facade? He affectionately pushes back the strands of hair that fall over your face when your head tilts down in silent apology. He doesn't want to pressure you; it was his fault for giving in to the moment and losing grip of the leash on his instincts and desires. He's the one at fault for the hurt his heart was going through right now. He knew you weren't ready yet, and he still had to go and ask.

What an idiot he's become… and yet, he doesn't mind, knowing that it's you who's making him act like a fool, he will gladly play the fool for the rest of his life if need be.

He diverts your attentions elsewhere, not enjoying the sadness in your eyes and the weight it puts on the edges of your lips. "Your lunches are always just what I need to carry me through the rest of my day. Thanks again, darlin’.” Grateful for the change in subject, you oblige and work through tonight's dinner menu with him. This time, without Steve and Lloyd at the forefront to cater to.

"We're running late," Andy huffs, the first in line leading the exhausted mercs back home. Ransom and Jake were close behind, whining about whether the food you had prepared was still warm or not. Curtis was the fourth in the line, fatigued from Steve and Lloyd's insistence on destroying all documented mirror replicas for you. He was the one forced to trail behind them on the exhaustive back-to-back infiltration missions today; he couldn't wait to return home, to scoop you up in his arms and breathe in the calm and cheer saturating your scent. Steve and Lloyd, naturally, trailed last a few feet behind. Their limbs were ready to fall off, and their feet had grown numb; nevertheless, they were satisfied with the day's work. If they hadn't pushed themselves to this extent, they would have returned home with a heavy heart, and they were on the consensus that physical lethargy was the preferred outcome.

“Sorry, we're late, princess!" Jake calls into the house, having skipped the line as soon as the front door was a step away.

“Oh, Jake!" In a blink, you were in Jake's arms, hugging him close as worry made your brows furrow. "I was so worried, thank god you got home safe and sound."

"You were worried about me?" Jake sighs dreamily as he hugs you back just the same before a wave of shyness overcomes him, and his voice goes quiet. "…really?…"

"Of course!" you pull back and fix him with a stern gaze to which he smiles like a goof at, his limbs turning into overcooked noodles against him.

"Hehe~ maybe we should come home late more often~" the Beta plays with the thought and turns his cheek towards you for a kiss, only to be pushed aside by Ransom.

"Weren't you worried about me, too?" Ransom cuts in, his pout brightening into a beaming grin when you open your arms for an embrace.

"How could I not be worried about you?" You turn your head to kiss his temple before pulling away to kiss Jake’s cheek, turning both Betas into a puddle of goop in your hands. "I was worried for all of you."

“Alright, you two, stop holding up the line and get cleaned before the princess's delicious food goes cold." Andy chases the Betas up the stairs to wash up so he can receive alate-home greeting also.

Smiling sweetly, you allow Andy to kiss your knuckles the same way he does every morning. This time, however, he allows his lips to linger, his eyes opening to look at you as his words make his lips and warm breath brush over your skin, "Apologies for our lateness, sweetheart."

You take your hand and gently caress his face, smiling softly when he leans into your touch, "Not at all, you've worked hard."

"Thank you, sweetness,” Andy whispers when he leans in to kiss your cheek. Soon after, he, too, heads upstairs to wash up.

Behind him, Curtis has his arms open, ready for you to jump into, which you happily did with a sweet giggle. Naturally, his tall and broad stature allows him to easily lift you off the ground. With your arms secure around his neck, he secures one forearm under you to act as a seat while the other curls into your hair, pushing you close as he breathes in your fragrance without shame. "…Curtis…" The way you sigh his name makes his heart grow wings and flutter about excitedly. It's a sickness he doesn't ever want to recover from. "Curtis…" you call once more, voice gentle and warm, he felt you trying to resist his hold, but he was stronger and refused to let you pull away until he's had his fill.

"Mmm?" he was adamant about keeping his nose pressed against your neck, so you huff in acceptance and, instead, settle for nuzzling the top of his seamed cap.

"Thank you for coming back home to me."

He finally pulls away enough to look up at your angelic visage, and a faint smile touches his lips, which makes your own smile brighten. In his eyes, you find his words easy to decipher: 'I will always find my way home to you.’ With that, you affectionately hold his face with both hands and lean in to press a kiss to his forehead, then his cheeks, then his chin and then his nose. You become a giggling mess, joined by his deep chuckles as he sets you down. Before leaving to wash up, he leans down and kisses the crown of your head.

Behind him stands Steve, who watched the loving interaction with tender but conflicted eyes. He blinks away the remorse clouding his gaze as soon as you meet his stare and secures his usual neutral mask with a small smile, never moving a step closer to you despite the welcoming air you were surrounded in. Undeterred, you step forward and smile warmly.

"Welcome home, Steve." The captain's face remained firm despite the look of fondness that briefly flashed within his eyes.

"It's done,” he turns the home greeting into a mission debrief, Lloyd patiently remaining hidden in the shadow behind his captain. "All the mirrors have been destroyed and all evidence secured." Steve smiles a little brighter from the disbelief in your eyes and your gaping mouth.

"A-all of them?" Steve nods firmly. "How many were there? Weren't there countless amounts? How many estates and laboratories did you have to infiltrate without getting caught?—"

"The details aren't important. All that matters is that it is done."

Accepting his report of the day's operations, you smile gratefully, your shoulders sagging from the relief, "Thank you so much, Steve."

A silence follows, the earth stopping for a moment, only to continue again when Steve takes a deep breath and finally a step forward to take a knee before you. 

"I'm sorry for raising my voice the day before. I'm sorry for not trusting you. And I'm sorry for forcing you to explain when we agreed to let you stay without having to supply something so personal. I’m sorry you had to go through so much and suffer alone, only to be met with my prejudice.” Steve stays kneeling, his head bowed and ashamed of his past actions, his voice steady and firm but ringing with sincerity. "I wasn't my best that day; my mind was irrational from the need to be a good captain to my pack. That is not an excuse. I just want you to know that I realise now that being a captain doesn't mean simply doing what's best for my pack, but considering what most, if not all, parties want and having the ear to listen. I will do better for them and for you because you are..." (you are a part of our pack, Steve had wanted to express, but catches his words just in time, though at the expense of almost biting his tongue off.) "…because you are important to us. I'm sorry."

Tears well up in your eyes as you drop to your knees and hide your tearful gaze in his shoulder as your arms circle his neck. Never before had you received such a sincere apology. Not when your mother died ('grow up into a wonderful princess to honour her'); not when your father died ('become a great ruler to honour his memory'); not when you were being abused by your step mother ('it's okay, it will get better soon princess, you only need to be patient'); and not when you were forced to abandon your people for the sake of your safety ('keep running and don't look back! Create and live a better life!'). Not a single sympathetic apology for the misfortune you faced… but here was one now… and, although it was from someone you had only known for a few days, it was enough to soothe multiple aches that had been plaguing your weary heart.  

"Didn't I already forgive you?" Your voice comes out wobbly and muffled against Steve's strong shoulder. His arms wrap around your trembling form, keeping you steady and pressed solidly against his much larger frame, tears welling up in his own eyes, the image of Ari standing watch in the shadows behind you blurring into a muddled mess. 

"You didn't let me apologise first… and I felt as though I needed to give you something alongside my apology.” 

"So you worked yourself and everyone else to the bone today just to fulfil my spontaneous request from this morning?" Steve shrugs as you laugh wetly against him.

"Perhaps." his voice took on a rare, teasing tone. He didn't want to separate from you but knew that there was one last alpha desperate for your attention and forgiveness right behind him.

"You're so—!… you're so silly…" Your tears had rightfully spilt over, and Steve was doing his best to wipe them away for you as he blinked away his own.

"Shhh…" he hushes softly, "please don't cry… I'll be in big trouble if the others see the puddle of tears I've turned you into." His lighthearted joke makes you laugh and blink away the remaining few with a sniffle.

At last, Steve leans in to kiss your forehead and slowly rises to his feet with you. Once he stepped aside and began heading upstairs, Lloyd was left standing there. The hardened mercenary has his face turned away as he presents you with a beautifully wrapped box that has a big silk ribbon on top. It appears as though Steve wasn't the only one who wanted to present you with something on top of his apology.

"What's this, Lloyd?…" Glancing at the present briefly, you look up to meet his eyes but find that he's still unwilling to face you.

"It's for you."

Ignoring the present, you walk forward and fall into his arms for a warm welcome. Under your touch, Lloyd stiffens and doesn't return the embrace. "Thank you for your hard work today, Lloyd…welcome home." 

No! He can’t hold you like that yet…no matter how much his heart clenches from your sweet words. You hear Lloyd gulp before he brings a hesitant hand up to gently pat your back, as his other hand (the one holding the present still) nudges you with the gift box.

"Thank you…uhh, don't you want to open your present?"

Conceding to his own form of apology, you pull away to take the present off his hands. From the brief time you've spent together, you know that Lloyd is a tough nut to crack, but he has his moments with those he's close to, namely the pack. And you thought you were on your way to making a place for yourself in his close net of friends, also, until that confrontation happened. Determined to remain close to the hardened, emotionally-inept alpha, you take his hand and lead him into the living room. When he follows your gesture of sitting on the sofa, you sit on his lap with the air of someone who is meant to sit there and nowhere else. Lloyd doesn’t protest but spends a moment processing what just happened before simply securing you in place with his hands on the curve of your hips. Before opening your present, Lloyd gently adjusts your position to sit sideways on one thigh so that he can observe your reaction more closely.

"Oh my…" You gasp, your beautiful eyes lighting up with joy upon seeing what was inside the gift box. Lloyd feels his heart slump with relief before shooting into the air at the sight of your joy. You’ve always been this pretty, he can admit that now. No wonder you had the rest of the pack fooled so early on… “What a beautiful dress!" Carefully taking the garment by the shoulders, you take the time to appreciate it in its entirety. "Is it truly for me?" you ask, meeting his eyes once more.

"It's certainly not for Jake to wear,” you laugh aloud, and collapse into a snicker against him at the funny image that comes to mind of Jake wearing a dress.

"Imagine Jake wearing a dress — how silly,” you giggle, but Lloyd is not amused. Rather, his face takes on a disgusted expression, as if he's smelled something rancid.

"I'd rather not, thanks." His repugnant retort makes you laugh once more, and, once again, Lloyd is entranced by your beguiling visage.

"A beauty deserves beautiful things,” Lloyd utters without meaning to, his words easily falling over loose lips, but he doesn't regret it when a flustered expression easily overtakes your features. No wonder Ari enjoyed teasing you so much if this is the vision he's met with each time. "…Happy belated 21st, princess." his words draw a soft gasp from your sweet lips, and your pretty eyes water once more.

"Oh Lloyd…" returning the dress to its box and setting it aside, you pull Lloyd's face towards you with both hands and kiss him sweetly on the lips, unable to stop yourself from expressing your gratitude at his thoughtfulness. You’ve never been gifted such an extravagant gift, nor one that had to be hidden away from sinister, spying eyes. Lloyd doesn't kiss back, too shocked to process the feel of your soft lips against his before he's brought to reality once more and pulls away with a swiftness that makes the 'mwah' of your lips parting echo louder than necessary. With Lloyd's ears burning a bright red, he buries his face into your collar.

"I'm sorry… I'm a bad alpha… I'm sorry…" Lloyd's words tremble from guilt and sincerity, the gravity of his previous unpleasantness making him tremble in guilt and fear of being disliked by you. He doesn't want to be forgiven, but, at the same time, he does. He doesn't want to feel this strongly for you, but he does. He doesn't want to face the fact that he's a bad alpha incapable of properly loving an omega, but he does. He doesn't want to admit that, for once in his life, he's wanted something other than a peaceful retirement with his incomplete pack, but he does, and it's you.

Lloyd rambles against your skin as you hug his head to your bosom, affectionately and soothingly petting his hair as he hugs you close by the waist.

"I was angry, I'm sorry."

"I thought you were a liar. I'm sorry."

"I thought you were bad for the pack. I'm sorry."

"I hurt you, I'm sorry."

"I didn't want to believe you were bad. I'm sorry."

"I want you to stay, I'm sorry."

You soothed him through his apologies with reassuring whispers, not pulling away until he was ready to part from you. Never before had you seen Lloyd in such a vulnerable state; you were right to guess that neither had the rest of his pack, despite their many years spent together. As the others peered in through the doorway, you subtly gestured for them to begin eating in the kitchen as you continued being there for Lloyd.

"I told you that if anyone could bring Lloyd to his knees, it would be an omega." Ari singsongs, having witnessed the entire scene with Steve and Lloyd from the shadows. “The perfect omega for our pack…” Ari meets Steve’s eyes but is, once again, met with aversion. 

Dinner wasn't as tense as the previous night, and Lloyd had joined rather belatedly, grumbling about how they didn't have to wait for him. "You could have eaten without me."

"Nah, no way, man!" Jake began as Lloyd took his usual seat. "It just wouldn't feel right." Lloyd stays frowning, but it doesn't reach his eyes, which everyone notices and smiles at.

"Well, let’s dig in before the food gets cold,” Steve announces, to which Jake didn't need to be told twice, his hasty ladling of food making Ransom knock him upside the head for making a mess. Jake answers with a grumble and gets smacked twice for not cleaning up his mess right away.

Andy rolls his eyes and apologises on their behalf, "Sorry for the lack of manners, princess." his words make Jake and Ransom stiffen, sensing the subtle warning tone his voice carried. "I'll be sure to help straighten those two out later."

Giggling, you shake your head. "It's alright, Andy, I'm sure everyone's just really hungry." Andy's stern gaze softens as he smiles at you, but Jake and Ransom know better — they’re preparing for a long, drawn-out nag later on.

Dinner continues where you ask about the day they've had, to which each gave their individual account before Steve turned the question onto you, "How was your day with Ari?"

"It was nice," you meet eyes with said alpha, who nods in agreement, "We spent the morning in the garden tending to his drowned peonies." Everyone at the table laughs except for Jake and Ari.

“Sorry, Ari…" Jake pulls an apologetic face as Ari sighs in simple resignation.

"You aren't allowed to touch my garden again, even if every plant is dying from thirst. Don't. Touch. Them."

"Sir, yes, sir!” No matter how many times he had taught Jake about how to properly care for plant life, the tech-genius remained useless; his only talent remained in the realm of magic and magi-tech.

"We still had a fun time, regardless of the mess,” you continued absentmindedly, "We talked about many things, especially about packs and if I'd like to rule with one or not one day."

The table went silent, everyone's minds raced as their eyes went from Ari to you, to Ari and back to you, where they stayed. Breaths caught and held, Ransom was the first to muster up the courage to ask further.

"So…? What are your thoughts, princess?"

"I don't think I would be satisfied enough being the omega of a singular alpha…" You state, getting flustered for inattentively addressing your immediate rejection of Ari's earlier question. It makes you turn away from the alpha and keep your eyes elsewhere, whether it be on the food or someone else at the table. "A pack feels more secure and, with the way I grew up, drawing knowledge from all the capable people around me, I think being part of a pack is integral to my character. I plan on ruling the kingdom I was set to inherit my way, which, I hope, will be with a capable pack…"

You give Ari one brief apologetic glance, and that was all it took for him to realise his own misunderstanding. Earlier that day, he phrased it as if asking for you to become his omega alone, but no… that was a slip of the tongue. You wanted a pack! The remnants of his heartache from that morning disappear in an instant, and Ari can't help but chuckle, drawing everyone's attention to him. He leans his elbow on the table and rests his chin in his palm as he stares lovingly at you.

"It's hard work being a Luna, you know…"

From his easy-going smile, your heart eases, "I think I can handle it…as long as I'm with the right pack." Everyone is shocked, but pleasantly so and you can't help but notice the way that they all turn to look at Steve. Their eyes brimmed with an emotion you couldn't quite read. You hope they understand where you're coming from, you weren't being subtle at all (you don’t think), but it'll be worth it if they can see your intentions, your heart singing with hope in your chest, not realising that they were equally as hopeful when facing their captain.

As usual, dinner ends with everyone clearing up together before heading for bed upstairs; however, this time, Steve calls you to head up with them. "We hold a debrief each night and set our intentions for the next day. I want you to be involved in tonight's discussions."

"Really?"

Steve nods and holds his hand out, sensing the insecurity in your tone, "Your involvement holds great significance here; you are directly involved after all.” Without another word, you take Steve’s hand and let him guide you up the staircase to the final room at the very end of the hallway.

Their meeting room centred around a large table surrounded by many seats, but not all members sat at the table; rather, it appears as though they sat wherever they felt comfortable. Nobody batted an eye that you were also in attendance, not even Lloyd, which spoke volumes about how far he had come with accepting you. Curtis, ever the gentleman, pulls out a chair for you to sit down comfortably.

"Thank you, Curt," you whisper, briefly caressing his cheek before he moves to sit against the windowsill with his arms folded. Steve, Andy and Ransom sit at the table with you while Lloyd perches atop a short filing cabinet, sharpening and polishing a knife with a thick handle and intricate designs carved into its sharp, metal body. Jake sits cross-legged on the floor where an organised array of open books and parchment lies. From his pockets, he brings out several new additions of parchment, briefly organising them before readying a pen for more notes. Lastly, Ari remains standing by the door, leaning back leisurely, with his arms folded up, his hands behind his head to act as a cushion.

Steve begins with a detailed overview of what they accomplished today. Their achievements were a point of awe for you as they had done so much, yet their nonchalant attitudes spoke as if they had gone through far more demanding days in the past. Your heart ached for them both from sympathy and admiration.

"Moving forward, I plan on contacting the Okisha Kingdom. Tonight." Everyone's attention is roped in, their gazes solely fixated on Steve as he continues, "It'll be an early call, but I consider this a matter of urgency, so I can't wait for the usual monthly correspondence. Not only do we have to inform them of the recent progress made on the mirror of Aleth's search, but they must be notified of your appearance, princess." Steve meets your widened eyes with a firm nod. "So long as you consent, that is…" Andy gives him a questioning look. When Steve had briefed him of the meeting's primary points earlier, he hadn't mentioned this… "We're beyond happy to keep your identity hidden, so if you don't wish for this, please say so, and it won't be done; you can remain hidden for however long you wish. I assure you that all of us are happy to accommodate you however possible despite our precarious career…" appreciating Steve's consideration, you begin to smile, "But, in the future, if you ever begin to feel uncomfortable with the arrangement, we will do our best to keep you safe while you make a new life for yourself elsewhere—"

"WHAT?!" protests ring out amongst the pack, but Steve continues, undeterred.

"We will have Curtis on constant watch over your safety in that instance, no matter how long it takes."

Whispers and grumblings echo through the room

"Why is it always Curtis?"

"Curtis isn't the only reliable one."

"How hard is it to be a guard? I can do it too."

"…lucky Curt…"

“Yes, yes, lucky Curt," Steve rolls his eyes before focusing on you, "…your response, princess?” Steve needs to know. As a captain with his heart set on you, he needs to know what avenues you will allow them. You want to have a pack; they can do that for you. You want to rule a kingdom with a pack… that’s something they can’t so easily do, considering their background. So if you want to stay hidden, then it can be allowed. But you can always change your mind in the future—

"Regardless of what changes, I don't think I'll ever grow uncomfortable under your care, Steve." The pack collectively breathe a silent sigh of relief. It was the right thing to do, to offer you that freedom of choice, but…they'd all be liars if they didn't wish for you to stay with them for however long you'd allow. "And I would greatly appreciate it if you could notify the Okisha Kingdom of my circumstance. From my understanding, they were good friends with my father before his death."

Steve smiles, although something in his chest sinks to his stomach, "Alright. Then I shall inform them right away." As the captain, he conducts the mandatory vote for confirmation on the next step, "all in favour, say 'I'." The room is filled with a resounding 'I'. "Good. Everyone, go to bed, leave the communication with me. Jake, can you activate the communicator just before you go?"

"Sure thing, Cap!" Jake makes a two-fingered salute before setting out to do just that. Everyone else begins making their way to their individual rooms, some yawning, some stretching, and all wishing others a good night along the way, especially you. 

(‘Ransom, Jake, don’t think I’m letting you off the hook for earlier.’ Andy’s stern reminder is met with groans and snickers.)

Jake soon returns with the communicator and powers it up before reluctantly leaving to be met with Andy’s lecture one step away from his bedroom door and five steps away from his bed. Steve is now left alone with the communicator. It’s late, but this is an urgent matter, and if the Okisha Kingdom agrees on its importance, Steve will surely get a response by morning.

navi. | series masterlist

nine. the soft negotiator →

a/n : wahhh! this was very belated but i want to thank everyone for being patient with me. a lot has happened since i last hopped on here and wrote anything so i'm a little rusty but my mum's surgery went well last year and i'm finally not working as much to compensate for what's happened. updates will still be slow but i assure you that i'm going to see this series to the end! i love you all so much, thank you for enjoying the series! (づ>/////<)づ♡

Odysseus was and always will be her love; she will find no other love more profound and amorous than the warm devotion she has found in him. She is reminded of that timeless adoration every day she rises and falls on the bed he had thoughtfully carved out of the olive tree they had first met under. Every day, she is reminded of their fateful encounter. She remembers his winsome smile, the way his bright eyes captured the golden sun, the way his luscious hair perfectly framed his handsome face; he was the epitome of boyish charm. But her husband has matured since then, having been crowned king and ruling graciously before leaving to face further hardships and misfortunes on the harsh battlefields in Troy. She can still recall the heavy burdens that weighed her beloved’s broad shoulders the day she first entered that theatre with their young son and many others. 

How she cried that day, cried at the sight of him, burying herself in his strong arms, his touch familiar and tight. She remembers him crying as well, his brawny embrace trembling around her. There was a distinct desperation in his fingers, tense and anchored to her, but also a hesitance, as if he couldn’t believe her existence before him, as if she were a ghost that could disappear with a simple touch. Then there was Telemachus. Their sweet boy, who shyly tugged at his father's chiton for equal attention, made the two drop to their knees and pull him into the centre of their arms, the centre of their world. It was as he pressed into his father’s broad chest that Penelope witnessed her brave and vivacious son shed tears for the first time, clinging to his father as her husband whispered apologies into his ears over and over. Like father, like son. The two already shared the trait of appearing strong to many, only to collapse into themselves when in the presence of their loved ones. And it made her cry happy, sad, bittersweet tears. 

The small family couldn’t bring themselves to fully separate after that and sat together throughout the musical, always touching, sometimes squeezing each other closer, and others pulling a little apart for breath, but never far enough to stop touching. They needed to know the other was still there, willingly chaining themselves together. It was painful to watch helplessly as the powerful figure of her husband was forcibly eroded by the harshness of the gods and the hardships of a war he never wanted to be a part of. It broke her heart to see her beloved in such a state. The dreadful future presented to them in the verses of songs made time drag by at a snail's pace, their hearts in their throats with stones in their stomachs, until it was finally time to return to their original place in the universe—apart and distant—as if no significant amount of time had passed at all. It was a cruel reality to face. Suddenly, time was moving too fast, and Penelope couldn’t hold her Odysseus for long enough, nor could her son. 

When they were finally dispersed and returned to their rightful places, Penelope held her darling son for the hours and hours it took for him to process what had just happened, never spilling enough tears to leave her shoulder soaked through, however, only lightly dampened. Penelope remembers Telemachus focusing on his breaths, often clamping his eyes shut and focusing before releasing a long and shaky exhale. He was steadying himself, trying to be brave and faithful to the first promise he made with his father. It was as admirable as it was saddening; her sweet boy had to grow up so fast despite her efforts to slow such a maturation. As a mother, Penelope tried to shield him from as much suffering as she could, but there was always a limit to what she was capable of. It seemed, however, that focusing on her role as a mother as well as the illustrious Queen of Ithaca was enough for her son; soon, she would share in Telemachus’ inner strength. 

Despite the many days and weeks that have passed after the foretelling of their futures, it still felt surreal. 

Penelope often wants to dismiss the experience entirely, but there was a stubborn part of her that loved to hope that it was all true and that she would not have to wait so long for Odysseus to return, now that they all knew what the devastating outcome a few damning decisions would lead to. Her husband is a clever man; it was one of the many alluring traits that had drawn her to him. He’s rarely the type to make the same mistake twice…

…So why could she not believe it when the silhouette of twelve black ships emerged on the horizon?

Why did she freeze when she heard the excited barking of Argos, Odysseus’ loyal canine companion, ringing out from the shores and echoing across the entire island of Ithaca?

Why was she so speechless when she rushed to her mother-in-law and sister-in-law with news, her son running at her heels with glittering eyes and a cherubic smile? 

“My son…is he finally home?” Anticlea asks in a shaky voice, her eyes turning glossy as she’s helped to her feet by an equally trembling Ctimene. If Ctimene's brother is finally returning home, then her husband will be home too. Could it be? Ctimene, with watery eyes, looked towards her sister-in-law, daring to hope, daring to fall into that soft, sweet and seductive optimism that, after all these years, she would finally see her husband again, her Eurylochus.  

Finally, Penelope smiles, tears falling from her lashes as she huffs in relief, “Yes! The ships are on the horizon, he’s home,” She catches Ctimene’s eyes, flooded by tears as she covers her mouth with trembling hands, “They’re both home.” The group reach for each other, including Telemachus, succumbing to their strong emotions and comforting each other in a tight embrace, but not for long.

They run to the shores, Telemachus sprinting ahead of the trio while his mother and aunt keep beside his grandmother, who struggles to carry herself without assistance. None could bring themselves to reprimand him; however, they could all connect with his desire to reach his father as soon as possible. 

“My apologies, my daughters,” Anticlea utters, her regret sincere, but her eyes never leave the silhouette of ships as they grow bigger, inching closer from the horizon.  

“There is nothing to apologise for, mother,” Ctimine laughs wetly, not caring for her dishevelled appearance. She leans into her mother’s side, needing her support just as much as she needed hers in locomotion. 

“We will arrive at the shores in time.”

Just when Penelope, Anticlea and Ctimine make it to the shores, they smile fondly at the visage of Telemachus playing with Argos, who was spritely with life once more; injected with a happiness that rattled his ageing bones in a dance that illusioned him into a fresher appearance. Somehow, the loyal hound was aware of his longest and dearest friend’s return home, cementing an assurance in Penelope’s heart that she would be seeing her husband very soon.   

⊹ ࣪ ﹏ 𓊝 ﹏ 𓂁 ﹏ ⊹ ࣪ ˖

The scent of thyme and pine washed over Odysseus as the ship neared shore, home. The fragrance was so achingly familiar it made his ribs sore from his hyperventilating lungs, his breath greedily taking in the intimate air, desperate to exchange the stale saltiness of the ocean that had long since settled heavily in his lungs. His eyes darted across the beach, searching, until—

There.

His mother stands. Alive, well and breathing… Her shawl flutters in the wind as she smiles brightly. Kind and gentle, not lost, not haunting. Behind his blinking eyes, he’s tormented once again by the phantasmic image of his despairing mother in the underworld, where she faithfully waits for his return; the heartache in her voice, evident. Since seeing that ghostly image of his mother in the underworld, her familiar warmth turned just as phantom-like as her new image, Odysseus has been flooded by guilt. Never before had he felt like such a failure of a son than he did in that moment and the minutes, hours and days after. It made him sick to his stomach with the determination to reach home in good— better time. 

Standing filially beside her was Ctimene, his sweet, little sister. She’s grown a lot since his departure, and he takes the time to soak in her more adult impression, only to chuckle to himself when his subconscious mind filters her to a familiar conception, the one he’s most accustomed to. To the one with scraped knees in her effort to follow him about, lost without his assurance and guidance; to the one with puffed-out, sun-flushed cheeks after succumbing to his lighthearted teasing; to the one who often stepped into his space and clung to the back of his chiton out of shyness; to the one of his most adored sister. When their eyes connect across the waters, her gaze doesn’t linger on him long. Her olive eyes check his figure briefly before decisively moving to fix on the figure beside him. Without turning his head, Odysseus already knows that her eyes have settled on Eurylochus. 

And then, Penelope. Sweet, lovely, beautiful Penelope. As clever as the sagacious owl, as elegant as the graceful swan and as beautiful as the heavenly dove. It felt as if he was seeing her for the first time all over again, his mind turning to mush as his body flushed from head to toe. She stands at the water’s edge, her toes tickled by the teasing waves that dance back and forth over the wet sands, but she pays it no mind, her eyes locked onto him as firmly as his are locked on her. Even from this distance, he could see the way her hands clutched at her chest, a known habit that he knew she used to keep herself grounded, covering her rapidly beating heart as if to temper down its charging pace. The gesture makes him smile, and he mirrors it with his own hand, clutching the fabric of his chiton over where his racing heart lies. 

“Father! Father!” Telemachus is there too, shouting to the heavens; the joy of his return, evident on his cherubic features. He bounces around the sandy shore with his oldest friend, Argos, who barks and howls and rises to his hind legs with his tongue out as if to say: I am so glad to see you home again, old friend. Both happily share in each other’s glee at the simple sight of him, Telemachus’ face alight with happiness as Argos does merry spins over and over, his tail wagging enough to elicit worry that it may break off.

Focusing solely on Telemachus, Odysseus is almost brought to his knees. Gods, his baby boy has grown up so much. He remembers having the same thought when he was first brought to the dark theatre with the rest of his crew and a slew of other pertinent characters, but no one was more important than his son and wife. It had only been a few weeks since Odysseus last saw his son; however, he couldn’t help but wonder if his son had grown just a little taller, his hair just a little messier, and his features just a little more adolescent and less juvenile. Although it brought him great joy to see his boy so happy and healthy, Odysseus vows never to miss another day of his son’s life again. 

He’s back now, and he will stay until his dying breath, eager to make new memories with his beloved and be the father he never had the privilege to be. Odysseus feels his grin grow wider at the thought, making his cheeks ache at the strain, but he doesn’t care. He would finally be together with his family, complete, whole, safe and sound. Odysseus’ vision blurred.

The moment the hull scraped an inch of sand, Odysseus was moving, leaping into the shallows with no thought for dignity. The seawater was soaking through his tunic and sandals, but he barely felt it. 

Telemachus and Argos met him halfway, their happiness infectious. Telemachus cheers and raises his arms as Odysseus scoops him up and holds him close, keeping him in his arms and on his hip as Argos jumps up on his hind legs, placing his front paws on Odysseus’ thighs for leverage as he laps at the hand he brings down to scratch behind his ears and deliver long-awaited affection and closeness. Unable to hold back, Odysseus drops down to his knees, the shallow sea water splashing beneath him as he pulls both into a tight embrace. Telemachus wraps his small arms around his father’s strong shoulders and buries his face into his neck as Argos licks slobber all over his face, tail wagging away merrily.  

Penelope meets him as soon as he gets up and walks onto the drier sands, escaping the lapping waves with Telemachus on his hip and Argos attached to his ankles. His Queen raises her arms, her smile longing and painted with relief, then, as soon as he’s close enough, her arms wrap around his neck too, tight and secure. Her breath brushing over his skin, her body pressed against his, her familiar comforting fragrance embracing him just as tightly—the salt of her tears where she pressed her face to his shoulder.

"You fool," she sobbed, laughing wetly into his neck as she pressed a flurry of kisses against his stubbled cheek. "You stubborn, brilliant fool.”

“Upon my return, my wife, in our first meeting, calls me a fool.” Odysseus smiles through his words; never before had he enjoyed being called a fool. “I missed you, my Queen,” He stares deeply into her eyes, “my Penelope…” Lost in each other, they lean in for a deep and passionate kiss, smiling into one another's lips when they hear Telemachus articulate disgust and squirm out of Odysseus’s hold, running to his grandmother, who laughs at his whining before gently telling him to leave his parents to reunite in peace. 

With his arm free, Odysseus pulls Penelope into him more, enclosing her in the tight ring of his arms as he buries his nose into her hair, inhaling the lavender she’d always worn, and knew—this was the scent of peace.

“Thank you for coming home to me, my love…” her shaky voice meets his ears, her lips brushing over his as she speaks.

“I will always find my way back to you.” He seals the vow with another deep kiss.

⊹ ࣪ ﹏ 𓊝 ﹏ 𓂁 ﹏ ⊹ ࣪ ˖

Eurylochus lingered on the ship a moment longer, his chest tight and his nerves restless. Finally arriving home feels too real and too good to be true; he thinks it's all a delusion. Nevertheless, his feet carry him to Ithaca's familiar sands, the very same sands he had last departed on ten years ago. Around him, his crewmates rushed to reunite with their loved ones, desperation and relief filling the air, contagious and soon seeping into his own veins.

As his eyes searched the beaches, Eurylochus finally set his eyes on a familiar pair of olive pools. Ctimene. His beloved. With her sandals in the sand and the glittering sun in her eyes, she stands before him like a sweet mirage, her dress elegantly draped over her shapely silhouette. Her apparition appears frayed at the edges, coloured in soft pink hues and brighter lighting. It's as if she were glowing, making the rest of the world disappear around her. Their marriage was arranged, but their love for each other had just begun to flourish before he was called to participate in the war against Troy, fighting beside his brother-in-law and friend. Never before had the world been so cruel.

Ten years had passed. And Eurylochus dreaded to think that the first spark of endearment between them, exhilarating and addictive, had withered away pathetically, divested too soon for it to bear fruit. Like a small flame deprived of air. Like a shy sapling deprived of sun. He has many regrets, and leaving like a stoic soldier had been one of them. There was no effort on his part to comfort his Ctimene as she tried to come to terms with sending him off, just as their kisses were beginning to burn their lungs with desperate passion; just as their embraces lingered for longer than usual; just as affection seeped into their gazes when regarding one another; just as they were beginning to fulfill their marriage vows to love…their flame was abruptly smothered.

Back then, Eurylochus believed that his stoicism was a comfort as it meant he was confident in returning home to her, silently urging her to foster the same confidence, but he was mistaken. If it weren't for that musical showing or you, the fair maiden, he never would have made it home. He should have hugged her, kissed her, whispered sweet assurances into her ear so that if the first reality in that musical had become of him, at least, the last memory she had of her husband would have been a sweet one. Now, he faces her doubtfully, shamefully and embarrassed, yet the past cannot be changed. So he should stay true to his strong character at the very least and face her head-on.

"You took your time.” Ctimene's sweet voice cuts through the crowd, meant for his ears only. Shocked, Eurylochus takes a hesitant step forward and looks, really looks at her, finally catching sight of the tears in her eyes. Could it be? "Did you not want to come home, my love?"

Without a word, Eurylochus rushes forward and pulls her into a tight embrace. All internal talk of facing her with squared shoulders and eyes full of conviction disappeared at the mere sight of her tears. He is just a man, not a soldier, a man who misses his wife dearly.

It didn't get past him, the fact that she had called to him lovingly, with the same sweet endearment he remembered she had just begun to shyly call to him before he left for Troy. It made his heart pound and his extremities grow lame. And yet, there was a profound strength within him that pushed him forward towards her, not caring for the slippery sands or the crowds of people surrounding them; he'd rather desperately cling to the small light of hope her sweet tone gave.

His calloused hands are overcome with the urge to roam her suddenly familiar curves and savour the feel of her body against his with his face buried into her neck. An intimate reunion. She had always smelled so fragrant and sweet; he couldn't get enough. It almost brings him to tears with how warmly her familiarity comforts him.

"I'm sorry, sweet Ctimene…"

Ctimene, overcome by equal parts joy and relief, unleashes her grief through free-falling rivers of tears. She sobs into her husband's strong shoulder as he tightens his arms around her and pulls her impossibly close.

"Why did you have to leave like that?" She refers to his unemotional and impassive departure, a strong suppression of his internal rage and objection against the conscription for Troy ten years prior. "And why return like this?"

"I have many regrets," Eurylochus confesses, reluctantly easing his hold on her to pull back just slightly, enough to stare deeply into her beautiful, tearful, but glittering eyes, "I will never conceal these strong feelings from you again. Just—…" Eurylochus hesitates momentarily but wills himself to continue, internally vowing to commit to a new, vulnerable side of himself, "just tell me…"

…Tell me you miss me…

He couldn't bring himself to finish, but Ctimene smiles, already understanding his unsaid words and brings her small hands up to lovingly hold his face. She then brushes noses with him and whispers closely, her lips brushing over his own, "I missed you…I love you. Thank you for coming home to me…"

Eurylochus smiles brightly, unsuppressed and all-feeling, "I missed you too. I love you too. Thank you for waiting for me…" He will, now and forever, answer to all of her calls. He is no longer the stoic man he pretended to be all those years ago; his unsaid words back then almost drove him to the depths of grief. He would have had much more to regret if he hadn't returned home on this destined day.

At last, they shared a long-awaited and tear-stained kiss; their flourishing love was finally allowed to bloom without restraint, nurtured by their commitment to one another and their bright future together, abundant with romance and secrets meant for only the two of them.

The beach was a chorus of weeping laughter and wet, jovial cheers. In the middle of it all, you stood with tears in your eyes, a witness to your beloved characters, now, close friends' happy ending and reunion with dearly missed loved ones.

Elpenor’s mother cradled his face as if he were still a little boy—though that was the case for all mothers, no matter how much time passed—her thumbs brushing his scars with gentle caution, afraid to hurt him further but assuring that he was now in safe hands. Despite the otherwise embarrassing closeness to his mother as a grown man back from war, Elpenor laughs and grins with a shimmer of tears coating his eyes, happily embracing his mother in return.

"I'm home!"

"And home you shall stay! I will make sure of it." His mother replies, her voice filled with conviction and tears as she squeezes him tight. Swamped with all number of joys, Elpenor laughs aloud heartily, his happiness echoing to the distant ends of the sandy beach.

Perimedes collapsed into his father’s arms, both of them shaking after much delay, mainly due to their pride as men. Nevertheless, love wins all. The two were of equal height and looked largely the same except for the evident wrinkles in his father's countenance compared to Perimedes' own. Growing up, his father was never the type to openly show affection; the typical Greek man and father of his household, never allowing his disabling limp to hinder his position. Rather, Peremides remembered his father working and disciplining him much harder to compensate for his own shortcomings. And yet, here his father was, cradling his son as if he were a small babe once again, no longer constrained by his sentiments.

"You did well, my dear boy…"

"…Thank you, father…"

Wives kissed sun-weathered cheeks and faded scars, children clung to legs they barely remembered but found comfort in, and old friends clasped forearms, grinning brightly through globulous tears. Emotions were high but electric and buoyant.

Finally…finally!

You stood at the centre of the chaos, your heart too full to move, and almost bursting at the seams with joy.

This—this was why you helped them so willingly. Not for glory, not for thanks, but for this: the way Polites’ breath hitched as a grey-haired woman (his mother, it had to be) cupped his face and whispered soft sentiments to him, wiping away his falling tears as he wiped away hers, both of them grinning through it all; the way Odysseus knelt to press his brow to Telemachus’; the way even Eurylochus, ever gruff, let his wife fuss over his travel-worn cloak and his newly acquired scars.

A hand slipped into yours as you're fully absorbed in the moment, breaking you from a hypnotic trance fueled by addictive glee. Turning to your side, you're met with sweetly smiling eyes and a handsome face. Polites smiled down at you, his thumb brushing over your knuckles in silent, gentle appreciation. "You did this," he murmured, voice velvety soft and praising.

You shake your head and look down—no, it was all of us—but he squeezes your fingers almost insistently.

"Look at them," he said softly. You follow his eyes as he scopes out the scene with a satisfied grin on his lips.

The first thing you see is a father swinging his giggling daughter onto his shoulders. The next, a wife, tearful but smiling, tucking her face into her husband’s neck. Then, an old man with wrinkled hands and thin, white hair, weeping into his son’s crown. The air smelled of salt and citrus blossoms as distant citrus trees waved their branches in the sea breeze as if dancing in celebration. The wind carried snippets of laughter that it stitched together in a haphazardly attentive manner while old songs were sung anew, enriching the air with festivities.

Polites leaned in close to whisper a soft but meaningful: "Thank you.” Your smile wobbles with emotion as you turn to look upon his blurred countenance, wanting to say something, but ultimately remaining speechless. Knowing just what to do, Polites opens his arms and gently guides you into his chest, hiding your tears in his chiton as you let the joy of Ithaca cradle you both.

High above, the sun warmed everyone's skin like a blessing, just as Odysseus ushered everyone to his palace for celebration. "Let me host a feast for all at my Palace! Everyone is welcome! The entire island is welcome! We shall celebrate this joyous return until we can no longer stand!" Resounding cheers echo amongst the crowd, and everyone soon begins to move up the island, away from the beach and towards the very palace Odysseus had built up, stone by stone. They are all led by the leader himself, his hand tightly interwined with his wife's, which he intermittently brings up to kiss the knuckles of, while his son and Argos trot happily at his other side.

⊹ ࣪ ﹏ 𓊝 ﹏ 𓂁 ﹏ ⊹ ࣪ ˖

It wasn't until Odysseus passed through his grand front doors and commanded every servant to organise a grand feast that he finally noticed a significant absence in his halls. Turning to his beloved, he searches her eyes for an answer as he tilts his head in question.

"My love?"

"Yes, my King?" Penelope hums, leaning into him further. She knows where her husband's curiosities lie, but loves and misses the sound of his voice too much to answer before he has the chance to ask her himself.

"Have no suitors come to claim your hand in my absence?"

"…No…" Penelope observes Odysseus' expression closely, curious about his somewhat odd response.

With a thoughtful hum, Odysseus meets his second commander's eyes before locking gazes with those who seem to have had the same realisation as him. They, too, hadn't forgotten about the events of their potential future and had their hands placed upon the handle of their swords in preparation; their weapons having yet to be discarded despite the flurry of emotions at the sandy beaches. "I wonder why that is…"

"I suppose it is because you have returned home at a good time."

"What a shame…" Odysseus huffs, lovingly caressing his wife's face with his knuckles. "I was somewhat looking forward to massacring a few hundred men over your hand."

Penelope narrows her eyes and slaps his shoulder lightheartedly, "I am not a prize to be won."

"No, you are not," the darkness in Odysseus' eyes visibly lifts as he softens to adoringly savour his wife's sweet face, "forgive me, my love, I mispoke." Having overheard the interaction, you slip your hands out of Polites' hold and come up behind Odysseus to helpfully deposit something into his hand. The item made a dainty sound, similar to the shuffling of beads against each other. Penelope wanted to question your appearance behind her husband; however, Odysseus was too quick to draw her attention away by presenting a small, delicate bracelet made of light blue seashells. "I hope that this humble gift can make up for my shortcomings as a man."

Penelope takes a moment to observe you over Odysseus's shoulder as you deposit another small but sweet accessory into Eurylochus's rough hands as he holds his wife close. An excited smile lights up your pretty face as you step back to stand beside the man she recognises as Polites to observe the exchange between the husband and wife duo. Deeming you harmless, she returns her attention to Odysseus again.

"I accept your gift of apology," With a toothy grin, Odysseus carefully slips the bracelet onto her wrist and secures its clasp before leaning down to whisper against her ear. Clearly, he had seen her cautious eyes upon you.

"I will tell you all about her soon enough, my Queen. You're going to love her."

"So you are the one who is responsible for bringing my husband home," Penelope acknowledges after slipping away with you and Ctimene to her private quarters. Your wondrous smile is disarming and sweet as you nod. Finally, Penelope lets her guard down and gives an appreciative nod in return. "Then I thank you."

"And I as well," Ctimene adds with a gracious nod of her own, her glee barely restrained behind her somewhat familiar grin — you enjoy seeing the similarities between her and Odysseus; it's clear that they're brother and sister. Their dynamic is teasing but loving, and full of laughter. It's been an honour to see their reactions as they weren't featured in the musical.

The three of you are accompanied by Odysseus' refined and soft-spoken mother, Anticlea. She sits back, overseeing the scene with a straight spine and a soft expression on her face; she looks content. "We are all very thankful for your contributions. Odysseus hasn't been able to stop singing your praises since the start of the feast."

Tucking your chin in shyly, you smile at the three, bashful under their beaming stare. This is one of the moments you're a little saddened by the fact that you can't speak. There are so many things you want to say to them. Even just seeing the three alive and happy gets you emotional. Penelope still has a lot of youth in her face, and despite already having a somewhat wrinkled appearance, Anticlea's expressions still shone with freshness. This journey was for them as well as those on the ships; you're only grateful to have been able to make a difference to the same characters that mean so much to you.

Trying not to get too emotional, you surrender your thoughts for a more favourable, lighter topic. You motion for them to cover their eyes with a reassuring look. As soon as their eyes were closed and blanketed by their hands, you quickly brought up your inventory to take out the two dresses you had prepared for Penelope and Ctimene, as requested by their adoring husbands. Penelope's was an elegant blue piece with an open back. The silk fabric was secured behind her neck with plenty of excess fabric left to drape down her exposed spine like a scarf; it also left her shoulders exposed, but accentuated her slim waist before elegantly flowing down to her ankles.

For Ctimene, you also prepared a silk dress, but this time, in a burnt orange that shone like a jewel as it traced her curves. It was also floor-length with spaghetti straps and ruching on one hip to better fit her shape before splitting in a high slit.

Both women gasped at the beautiful pieces you presented them with. They had been eying your uniquely beautiful way of dress, curious and envious, but never expected to be presented with such a wondrous gift. Your dress was more fitting of the cottagecore aesthetic, but for a celebration like tonight, you thought these dresses would be more fitting for the two women. You can gift them better-matching dresses to yours another day.

"How wonderful!" Ctimene awed as you handed her the silk orange dress.

"You shouldn't have…" Penelope sounded a little breathless as she brought the blue silk to her chest.

They watched as you shrugged your shoulders casually, their eyes glowing with fondness, before you stepped forward to assist them into the unusual dresses. It took you a long time to make each dress, but it was a worthwhile effort when they looked so beautiful in it.

"The fabric is so smooth," Penelope whispered in astonishment, an attentive hand softly tracing over the fabric around her hips.

"I want to show Eurylochus…" Ctimene flushed as the words escaped her, especially when her eyes found the high slit cutting up the dress to her mid-thigh.

"But first…" Anticlea steps up to you, surprising everyone as she had been mostly silent up to this point, "We must give you an equal gift, child. An even exchange."

"Yes," Penelope smiles at you, her attention leaving the dress, "it is only fair."

"How exciting! I will find the suitable accessories." Ctimene claps her hands in glee before zipping to a wooden dresser, while Penelope opens up a closet space, and Anticlea leads you to the centre of the room. The atmosphere made you feel giddy. As much as you adored the crew, Odysseus, Eurylochus and Polites, their company cannot compare to one surrounded by fellow women who indulge in your innate girlish nature.

"I-I…" Odysseus was speechless as Penelope stepped back into the main hall, where the feast was being held. His jaw was slack, and his fingers twitched to pull her into his arms.

Holding back a smirk, Penelope drifted towards her stuttering husband and whispered up at him as soon as she was close enough, "This is the part where you say I'm the most beautiful woman you've ever witnessed in life…"

Odysseus lets out a brief chuckle, relieving some of the tension in his shoulders, "You truly are…"

"…what?" Penelope wanted to hear him say it all.

"You truly are the most beautiful woman I've ever witnessed appear before me in life." The two giggle in unison before sharing in a deep kiss, not caring for the surrounding company, who whistled and cheered them on before continuing with the celebratory feast.

⊹ ࣪ ˖

"As silent as ever, I see?" Ctimene pries as she approaches Eurylochus, who had turned to stone as soon as he caught sight of her. She wasn't really serious; she could tell by his expression how awed he was by her appearance, and that was enough for her. Being able to read his silence has always been a source of pride for her as his wife.

However, Eurylochus was a new man, someone who didn't want to live in regret for not simply speaking up enough for his wife. The very woman he loved most dearly and preciously in the world. "I was speechless, you're too beautiful for a man like me..."

"Don't insult me so…" Ctimene comments without any malice or hurt as she wraps her arms around his shoulders, bringing his tall frame down to accommodate her shorter stature. "I was the one who said 'yes' to having you as my husband."

Eurylochus gives her a rare smile as their noses press against each other, "And I think myself the luckiest man alive every day for your generosity." In an attempt to hide her bashfulness, Ctimene pushes up onto her toes and locks their lips together. When did her husband learn to speak so sweetly?

⊹ ࣪ ˖

You appear behind Penelope and Ctimene, smiling brightly as you witness the exchange between them and their husbands, both men with whom you've become close friends. Your chest warmed with a sense of fulfilment and happiness that dared try to burst through the cage of your ribs. It was almost painful, but it was steeped in so much sweetness, you didn't care to stop yourself from feeling it more.

"F-fair maiden…" You finally noticed the sudden silence that had swept through the hall of feasting men. Turning to the voice, you find Polites with a rosy blush dusting the sun-kissed skin of his cheeks as he adjusts his glasses adorably at the sight of you. Behind him, you recognise many familiar faces that made up the crew you helped return home as they stare at your new attire. Smiling bashfully, you take a couple of steps forward and do a twirl as if to ask 'How do I look?'

Penelope, Ctimene and Anticlea had dressed you in a traditional Greek peplos dress. The white fabric draped over your frame in elegant lines with a gold band circling your waist before it draped the rest of the way to the floor. The neckline scooped down your upper chest before securing over your shoulders, where a flowy cape fell down your back. Ctimene had done up your hair and secured it into place with two golden, olive-leaf combs that circled your head like a crown. She also had you wearing gold bracelets and two gold arm cuffs.

Seeing you in their way of dress had Polites devoid of any coherent thoughts and internally reprimanding himself when you tilted your head and pouted, as he had nothing to say after your elegant twirl.

"You're so pretty, fair maiden!" Elepnor cheers from where he's sat beside his mother and Peremides, who had a warm blush on his cheeks from the sight of you.

"She's always been pretty," Perimedes comments as he takes a sip of his wine in an attempt to cover his flushed cheeks.

Their outburst had opened the floodgates of compliments to burst forth from the rest of the crewmen, who cheered you and sang praises of your outstanding beauty. It made you look down shyly…but you still hadn't heard anything from the man whose words mattered a little more to you. Looking up again, you squeak silently at the surprising sight of Polites suddenly approaching you. You didn't know what to do except watch him shyly as he stepped up to you, gently taking your hand in his and bending at the waist as he brought your hand up to his lips, where he kissed your knuckles.

"I didn't think you could get any more beautiful…" Polites straightens to face you with a smile on his blushing face. "I seem to have forgotten that you have a wonderful habit of proving me wrong." Giggling sweetly, you give him a slow nod of thanks as a warmth blossoms over your cheeks, and you can't help but stare deeply into his eyes. Polites clears his throat and steps aside, motioning to the many tables laden with food, "Shall we feast?… I believe it's finally our turn to feed you well, fair maiden."

⊹ ࣪ ﹏ 𓊝 ﹏ 𓂁 ﹏ ⊹ ࣪ ˖

You were told that the celebrations would last an entire week - you didn't believe it at first, until the end of the third day. There was still talk from crewmates and their attending families about staying the night once again and of what they looked forward to doing the next day. There was dancing and singing and feasting, minor competitions of strength and wit between friends and even some acts of passion between reunited spouses and lovers in the shadows of torchlight. Odysseus and Penelope were very preoccupied behind closed doors, despite the ongoing festivities, to the point that you needed to entertain Telemachus with Polities so that he wouldn't go on to disturb his parents' passionate reunion atop their marital bed.

There were no complaints on your part, however. It was refreshing and heartwarming to spend time with Telemachus, still a young boy. He hadn't been forced to grow up quite so fast, nor had he ever been threatened by strangers reeking of ill intent to surrender his mother to them and accept a new father. He smiled without a care in the world and played around without a worry. He had you running around with Argos in the lush garden of the palace, had you learn how to play the lyre as he banged on a tympanon, and he even pulled you into multiple pretend fights with pretend wooden swords. Happily, you indulged in his whims without a second thought, earning his friendship and favour to the point of him becoming pouty whenever you got distracted or pulled away by crew members, especially Polites. Rather than take you from Telemachus, however, Polites happily asked to join in on your games until he, too, became a dear friend of Telemachus. With the addition of Polites, much of your time was spent listening to him recount childhood stories with Odysseus, a subject that always fascinated Telemachus, keeping his attention the entire time. You would be the one to sit beside him on the grass, both of you eagerly listening and requesting more stories of the past, to which Polites was all too happy to oblige.

It was the fourth day of celebration, and you were getting accustomed to a routine. You expected to have a quiet, peaceful breakfast, but were surprisingly joined by Odysseus and Penelope, who you hadn't seen for the past three days. There was no grand or awkward greeting between you, only quietude, and a slow operation of limbs as plates were topped up in comfortable silence. It appeared as though everyone wanted a peaceful morning.

"I thank you for befriending Telemachus, fair maiden," Odysseus brings up in the midst of your morning meal, some of his energy replenished for the day. You shrug and give him a teasing look as a reply. He understands your unspoken words and laughs before flashing you a thankful look. "I was able to spend precious time with Penelope, undisturbed, thanks to you. I owe you a great deal, now more than ever." Your shoulders shake as you laugh a silent laugh, the couple across from you only smile in content and lean into each other lovingly.

"Whatever you wish, we will do our best to fulfil it." You're already shaking your head before Penelope finishes her generous offer, making her frown in mock dissatisfaction. "I won't hear of it. As soon as you have the smallest wish for something, you inform us right away. As my husband said," The two share a brief look before returning their attention to you, "we owe you a great deal."

With a slow nod and a warm smile, you thank them for their generosity, and breakfast continues in comfortable silence, the sun barely creeping above the horizon when another figure enters the hall. Their face is new, that of a stranger, but their eyes reflect a familiar wisdom. It can't be…

Time stops while a familiar ticking continues in the background. Penelope is frozen in place while you and Odysseus stand and greet the goddess in disguise.

"Athena! Welcome!" Odysseus greets with a bow, his tone light and his grin wide, his demeanour infected with merriment. "Have you finally come to join the celebration?"

"I'm afraid not." Athena smiles down at her pouting friend, "You are free to celebrate to your heart's content; however, I am here on more important matters." Athena's gaze moves onto you. With a faint nod, she returns your voice so that you may express yourself in her pocket space.

"It's good to see you again, Athena," you greet with a smile as Odysseus' jaw goes slack beside you. He couldn't believe his ears!

"Likewise, little one."

"You can talk!" Odysseus grasps your shoulders and gives you a gleeful shake, cheering with laughter. "Haha! This is wonderful! How suited your voice is for you, so kind and so full of warmth." You stare into Odysseus' soft gaze, smiling wider when his hand comes up to pet your hair. "I never thought I'd ever hear you speak. What a privilege…" curiosity makes his brows furrow, "but how is that possible?" The two of you look back at Athena, who patiently waits for Odysseus' delight to simmer down.

"In this space, I can restore your previous manifestation." The goddess explains, but you both remain silent, prompting her for further explanations, "You are not of this world, little one, but in the one you were born into, you could speak. That is how." Her clarification only opens up another question.

"What is the meaning of this?" Odysseus asks, his speechlessness robbing him of the strength to properly articulate his thoughts. He wanted to ask more divulging question but was unable to. Where was he to begin?

"I am here to give you a choice, little one. Either you return home or stay here. Your existence is shaky, but with the blessing of a certain goddess, you will be able to travel back to your world safely or continue to remain here peacefully."

"Go back? What?! "Odysseus exclaims, not expecting an answer, as he was too busy trying to comprehend the situation. He knew that you were special, but to think that you came from another world entirely. He takes several moments to digest the information and slowly comes to terms with it. After all, you've shown otherworldly abilities; it makes sense for you to be…otherworldly. However, just as he accepts that thought, another strikes him with worry and regret. Coming from another world and having Athena propose that you decide on whether to stay or go meant that there was a possibility of you leaving. And he doesn't think he would ever be ready to accept such a decision.

Nevertheless… was that really a decision he could make for you? He had no authority over your choices. If that was your wish, he needed to keep his mouth shut and his heart locked; it would bring him a great deal of sadness to see you go as he had grown so fond of you, but he would be overstepping his bounds, and he would be exercising too much greed. It's entirely selfish of him to accept your help in returning to Ithaca but protest your desire to return home yourself. Odysseus straightens his shoulders, his face solemn as he looks at you. This was a decision you had to make yourself without any influence.

"…who will be the one to bless me?" you ask, even though it's not the most pressing question you needed answers to.

"She's a close friend of Hermes. Hecate, Goddess of magic, spells, the moon, night and crossroads." Your eyes widen. Hecate wasn't a goddess featured in EPIC: The Musical, but you shouldn't be surprised at her existence here. This world isn't limited to only those in the cast and the happenings of just the musical. It has more nuance and life than the songs you had grown to love. This is a real world where your beloved characters live, in addition to many others.

"Why Hecate?" Again, you find yourself asking a question that isn't urgent but one you're most curious about. "I'm already blessed by Hermes, God of travellers, trade and boundaries, isn't that enough?"

"As a traveller, yes, that's fine, but you aren't a simple traveller. You wield abilities akin to magic as well… that would be a little unreasonable not to account for. Hecate is quite fond of magic, and she finds yours unique but in need of protection. And, sometimes, protection means letting it go such that those who covet it menacingly cannot find you." Athena watches your expressions, patiently waiting for you to come to terms with her reasoning and the implications of her statements before continuing. Odysseus had stiffened up at the inference of harm coming to you and immediately hardened his expression, grinding his teeth at the thought. There isn't a chance in this world that he would ever let that happen. "There's a balance that needs to be maintained, afterall. It is a rule worth abiding by." You nod along but don't meet her eyes. Everything made sense. If you wish to continue staying here, you need to sacrifice your ability to utilise Animal Crossing game mechanics and be normal. But if you were to return home, you'll become normal again anyway, so it's only a matter of where you wish to be.

"Does that mean I'll be able to speak if I choose to stay?"

"Yes, of course."

"How will I be able to return home?"

"Hermes and Hecate have been working on a solution for a while. Hermes spoke a great deal to Hecate, and she has grown endeared towards you. She's willing to open the door to your home while Hermes safely guides you back. As soon as you inform me of your decision, I will let them know, and things will proceed from there."

You take a moment to think to yourself. Athena's tone doesn't pressure you into making a decision right away; rather, she's remained neutral throughout the exchange and patiently awaits your answer alongside Odysseus, who has forced himself to stay silent, quietly observing your pondering features and keeping his thoughts to himself. It was a hard decision. Go back to what's familiar. Or remain in a world where you've made a name for yourself, but sacrifice the one thing that's given you that status. You don't know what to do…

"May I have some more time to think about my decision?"

Athena nods in understanding as Odysseus takes your hand in his and gives it a comforting squeeze. You give him a small smile in thanks. "Of course. But only until the end of this week's celebration. I will return to you then. If you ever decide before that time, feel free to call for me in a private place. I will be around." That meant that you only had three days left.

Of those three days, you spend most of your time playing with Telemachus, savouring your moments spent beside Polites, Odysseus, Eurylochus and all of the many friends you've made amongst the crew, namely Elpenor and Perimedes. They were a dynamic duo you will sorely miss. All is well on the first day, with Odysseus being the only one who truly understood your troubled mind, while Polites and Eurylochus, and even Telemachus, slowly begin to notice your more distracted constitution and infrequent smiles, as your time for contemplation ends.

It was now your final day to make a decision, a decision you still have not yet made. Out of kindness and concern for you as a friend, many have asked about your well-being, hoping to understand or make you smile and distract you from your troubling thoughts. But they only succeeded in unintentionally overwhelming and pushing you to leave for some space alone to think.

With a sigh, Odysseus approaches his best friend and brother-in-law, pulls them into a private corner and finally tells them of your predicament, the encounter with Athena and the choices you were given. Eurylochus immediately frowns as Polites is flooded with alarm. How he had been allowed to take the little time you had left for granted was unfathomable to him, betrayal creeping into his heart as he turned to Odysseus.

"Why hadn't you informed us sooner, friend?" Polites presses, desperation dripping from his words.

"It was not my place to tell you," he says, exhausted. It had been weighing on him the past few days, and he felt drained of all energy despite the jovial atmosphere surrounding the celebrations. Penelope had quickly noticed but didn't press him for answers when he refused. She could do nothing but comfort him. "I had expected the fair maiden to ask me to explain the situation to you in her place, but she had not done so. I resolved to tell you on the last day if she hadn't yet. I apologise, brothers…"

Polites bites his bottom lip, "I want to comfort her… am I even allowed?"

"This is a decision she must make for herself." Eurylochus reiterates, sharing in Odysseus' thoughts on the matter, but places a hand of comfort on Polites' shoulder. He, too, was saddened at the thought of your departure. You had taught him many things, and he would have liked to enjoy more time with you beside Odysseus and Polites, but he knew that this was a much harder reality to accept for Polites and Odysseus. "I'm afraid your presence will stir her opinion. It's best to leave her be for now. When the time comes to say goodbye, I'm sure she will let us know so that we may be allowed to say our proper farewells then."

But… you never returned that night.

You didn't warn them that you would be departing, and so… they were never able to say their goodbyes. The men go to bed with heavy hearts after searching the grounds only to find you missing entirely. Odysseus and Eurylochus were desolate to know of your departure, but Polites was heartbroken and consumed with grief. He, at least, wanted to say his goodbyes…

When the morning sun rises the next day, it brings with it the ending of the celebrations and the sadness of your departure. The previous night, after finding you missing, Odysseus gathered everyone together in the halls and announced that you had returned to your home as they had returned to theirs.

There were many protests at first…

"That can't be!" Elpenor objected, tears already surfacing as his lower lip trembles, "She was happy with us. Couldn't she have stayed a little longer, at least?"

But many eventually grew to accept your leave. You deserved to return home just as they had; it would be selfish of them to deny you that when it was all they ever wanted the past ten years.

"She's returned home, Elpenor. She is where she belongs. She'll be happiest there." Despite Perimedes' words, he too begins to shed tears just as freely as his burly friend, the two of them pulling each other into a hug for comfort. In his heart of hearts, Perimedes wanted you to stay too.

"We didn't even wish her farewell and safe travels…" Elpenor sobbed into his friend's shoulder, his words hitting all observers in the chest, especially Polites. If only they could have said goodbye…

…

…

…

"Oh no, what's happened?" A voice cuts through the sorrowful atmosphere. It's kind and filled with warmth, feminine and sweet, familiar in that it twinkled like a bell… similar to a giggle many of the crew had grown to love.

Everyone turns to the voice, and gasps of shock echo across the hall at the sight of you carrying several basketfuls of those juicy, abnormally large fruit from your island. They couldn't believe their eyes. They all believed you to be gone. Every man had spent most of the night searching the palace and island for you, only to realise that you were gone without a trace.

"You're here? And you can speak?" Polites asked, approaching you with slow, hesitant steps, his eyes wide with disbelief.

You tilt your head with a confused smile, "What do you mean? Of course I'm here," your eyes fill with a different type of warmth as he stands before you, eyes watery but smiling wider than he ever had. "I'm here to stay."

Polites, unable to help himself, pulls you into a tight embrace as you hurriedly drop your baskets of fruits at a nearby table, "Then where did you disappear off to the whole night?"

"Well~" you giggle deviously and meet eyes with Odysseus over Polites' shoulder, "I may or may not have gone searching through that little shed of mine."

Those who know of your circumstances with the gods and the caviats that come with either choice (namely Polites, Odysseus and Eurylochus), give you a questioning look, only to roll their eyes and smile in relief when you mouth a familiar name at them: Hermes. The god of mischief strikes again.

"Your great-grandfather's mischievous antics are certainly ones to behold, my King." Eurylochus voices sarcastically as the two observe your embrace with Polites, only to be pulled out of the man's embrace and hugged between Elpenor and Perimedes, who haven't gotten themselves to stop crying yet.

"Indeed… just don't hold it against me," Odysseus chuckles, relief and happiness flooding his chest as you, with the help of Polites, send the crew and their loved ones home with a fruit of their choosing, ending the festivities and starting a new, peaceful life on Ithaca, home.

⊹ ࣪ ˖

"I wanted to ask fair maiden…" Polites whispers against your ear, the two of you waving off the last few guests together, your baskets now empty. He stands behind you, towering over your figure and having to lean down to speak intimately into your ear.

"Hmmm?… What is it?" He holds you in place by the waist, his fingers tracing the folds of your peplos so you're only able to turn your head and tilt your chin up, speaking in an equally hushed voice back at him. A couple's private exchange in whispers.

"Now that you can speak… may I have the honour of knowing your name?"

You smile and whisper into his ear like a secret. He awes at the sweet syllables you utter against his ear, speaking them aloud, trying them himself and smiling at the shapes they make of his tongue and lips.

"A beautiful name for a truly beautiful maiden."

navi. | series m.list

a/n : and that concludes EPIC: The Fair Maiden ( ⸝⸝´꒳`⸝⸝)♡ thank you all again for following and staying by me on this amazing journey, it didn't start out serious at all haha! (you can tell by just the premise of the story) ( ≧ᗜ≦) and there were some ups and downs with my choices on where to take the series atop real life stuff so it was a little disheartening at times ૮(˶╥︿╥)ა but now it's a series that i absolutely adore and holds a special place in my heart, and it's all thanks to you darlings and your enthusiasm for it. i hope i did the ending justice for you! i also hope you know that this isn't the end, as i will be writing some short imagines on potentially other scenarios that this series could have taken (*cough*aged-up!telemachus x reader/if the suitors where there and hit on reader*cough*)