Photo by Paul Pastourmatzis on Unsplash 7.1
When Odyssea reached Ithaca at last, Tyresia was there to greet her at the docks. “Tyresia!” Odyssea ran up to her and hugged her. “It’s so nice to see you again!” Tyresia said. “Did you complete your quest?” “I did,” Odyssea said. “Is there anything else I need to do with the eye pendant?” “Atheno will visit you to retrieve the pendant,” Tyresia said. “By the way, I’ve been talking with your father, and he has missed you terribly! He’s on his way to see you now. I told him you’d be arriving. He said to wait here for the chariots. They will escort you and your crew to the palace for a feast.” “Thank you,” Odyssea said. She would have liked nothing more than to just relax, but she knew her father was excited to see her after all this time. She scanned the crowds of people at the docks, hoping to see her father or his chariots. Many were fishers, having finished their day’s work. Some people were disembarking and others getting on a ship to start their travels. It was a sunny day and seagulls flew overhead, gliding with the wind. Odyssea breathed in the fresh air and she and her crew rejoiced at having returned safely. The chariots soon arrived and transported the tired crew back to the castle. Telemachus came out to meet her, hugging her with tears in his eyes. After they and the crew had all eaten, the crew went to to stay in the guest quarters while Odyssea and her father went to the study. “I presume your voyage was successful?” her father asked. “It was,” Odyssea said. She was still exhausted but the food had reenergized her somewhat. “I am eager to hear about your travels. Please start from the beginning,” Telemachus said. “As long as you’re not too tired.” “Actually, before we do that-“ she started. A guard came in right then and announced that a visitor had come. “He’s here!” Telemachus seemed excited. “Come with me. You’re going to meet your future spouse!” He took her hand and Odyssea went with him to the gardens, disappointed. “You can tell me about your travels during dinner,” Telemachus said. They entered the gardens where a young man was standing in the gazebo. “Odyssea, meet Prince Vassilis. He hails from the northern kingdom and just arrived today. Prince Vassilis, this is my daughter Odyssea.” “Pleased to meet you,” Odyssea murmured. This whole thing felt wrong to her. “I’m pleased to meet you too,” the prince said. “Why don’t you two go and talk privately to get to know each other,” Telemachus gave Odyssea a little push and left them alone. “Um…my father just kind of sprung this on me,” Odyssea said. “Why don’t we sit down and eat.” They sat at the table and chairs under the gazebo. A light meal had been set before them. Vassilis had brown hair and green eyes and his face was deathly pale. Odyssea gulped. His face looked very serious, and he was almost as pale as a ghost. “So what made you decide to accept the marriage?” Odyssea asked. “Is this purely a political alliance?” “My older sister is the queen of my kingdom,” Vassilis said. “She’s marrying me off to a stranger. I honestly had no say in the matter.” “I’m sorry to hear that. So this marriage is purely a political alliance, then,” Odyssea didn’t like the sound of that. “That’s right,” Vassilis said. “So what are you hoping to get from this marriage?” Odyssea asked. “What are your expectations?” “Separate rooms so we don’t get in each other’s way,” Vassilis said. “Why would we get in each other’s way?” Odyssea asked. “Because our kingdoms are pretty much enemies,” Vassilis said. “This alliance is a rocky political one. It would be preposterous to call it a marriage.” “Don’t you want something more?” Odyssea asked. “Don’t you want to marry someone you actually love?” “I don’t believe in love,” Vassilis said. “But my kingdom is very wealthy, especially in weapons. And the queen will gift you and your kingdom many riches and weapons. More than you can imagine. Your kingdom will have the upper hand and will be completely safe from all harm.” Odyssea frowned. “What’s the name of your queen?” she asked. “My older sister, Queen Reveka,” Vassilis said. “What?!!” Odyssea stood up so fast that her chair tipped over. “Reveka is your sister?!!” “You didn’t know?” Vassilis asked. “No, I’ve been away on a trip and just got back. I haven’t had a chance to look up your family tree,” Odyssea said angrily. “Well, you’re lucky,” Vassilis said. “After we marry, Reveka will leave you alone. And, she will leave me alone as well. You don’t know what it’s like to live with her. She’s someone I’d rather try to forget, like a nightmare that fades away.” “Is Reveka forcing you to marry me?” Odyssea asked. “Pretty much,” Vassilis said. “It’s all about alliances with her. I’m just a pawn in her game and I despise her.” “Well, let me make it easy for you then,” Odyssea said. “I reject this marriage.” She stood up and walked out without a backward glance. “Well, what do you think of him?” Telemachus asked. Odyssea had found her father in his study and sat down in one of the chairs by the desk. “I’m not marrying that man,” she said. “It would be a huge mistake.” “But our kingdom would be stronger,” Telemachus said. “Father, I wanted to talk to you. I have found someone that I would love to marry. His name is Nausico, and he’s the son of Queen Alcina.” “Nausico? That name sounds familiar. Oh yes, Queen Alcina had sent me a letter with a marriage offer. I thought you’d be pleased with Vassilis and I rejected Nausico. I mean, his kingdom is pretty small and Nausico is a medic’s apprentice. Not really king material.” “I told Vassilis I reject the marriage,” Odyssea said. “I can’t believe you won’t give him a chance,” Telemachus was dismayed. “We’ll talk about this later. For now, I want to hear about your travels.” “All right,” Odyssea said. This would give her time to figure out how to convince her father to let her marry Nausico. 7.2 Odyssea began and recounted the places she and her crew had gone to and the people they visited. Telemachus listened to her tales and marveled that she had almost married a lotus eater and two children of the gods. “It was a whirlwind of emotions,” Odyssea said, tears coming to her eyes when she remembered how she’d almost lost hope on Circes’ island. “And I was with Calypse for a long time and he offered me immortality. But I turned it down.” “I’m glad to hear you chose to return,” Telemachus said. “You’ve proven that you care about the people of Ithaca. You’ve rescued them from future disaster. You did your duty and are ready to be crowned queen. We will have the coronation in two weeks.” “Thank you,” Odyssea smiled. “So you’ve rejected Vassilis. But there’s still the matter of your marriage. What do you propose we do?” Telemachus asked. “What if Queen Reveka harbors resentment towards us?” Odyssea didn’t want to think about that right now. She thought about Nausico right then, and a wave of sadness washed over her. She truly missed him. “Let me tell you about Nausico,” she said. Telemachus nodded. Odyssea told him about Nausico stowing away on her ship and the conversation she’d had with Queen Alcina. “Queen Alcina wanted me to marry her son Nausico, but I told her you had probably arranged my marriage already,” Odyssea said. “I sense you’re displeased,” Telemachus said. “It’s just that I wanted to choose my groom,” Odyssea said. “I don’t want to marry a stranger.” “Darling, I don’t expect you to marry a stranger,” Telemachus said. “I’m sorry if I gave you that impression. I only wanted to relieve you of an extra burden. That’s the only reason why I was arranging your marriage.” “Really?” Odyssea asked. “Then I should probably tell you something else. I know I shouldn’t have, but I made a promise to Nausico. I would like to marry him.” Telemachus rubbed his chin in deep thought. “I’ll see what can be done,” he said. Odyssea smiled. It was weird being in her own suite again. It was spacious with a balcony, huge bed, and a fireplace. She knew she would soon share the suite with the person she married. Odyssea imagined Nausico standing in the room with her and heat rushed to her face. Though she had made him a promise, it was not meant to be. She threw herself back on her bed in frustration. “Atheno, please help me,” she said. “I don’t know what to do. Will Nausico be all right? What if they force him to marry that…” “Odyssea,” a voice spoke. Startled, Odyssea sat up with a jolt. A young man with golden hair was standing there, a glow about him. “Atheno, you came,” Odyssea said. “Please tell me, is Nausico all right?” “Are you willing to fight for him?” Atheno asked. “He’s in danger and needs your help. They’ve arranged his marriage to that awful queen. They’re just now entering the audience hall.” “What?!” Odyssea gasped. “They’re here? In the palace?” “Yes, Reveka wanted to attend her brother’s marriage, and she brought Nausico along too so that he can’t escape. Grab your weapon and hurry!” Atheno said. “If you wish to see Nausico again.” Odyssea gathered up her sword and shield and followed Atheno to the balcony to see the procession. She quickly spotted Queen Alcina, the guards, and Nausico. “They were also invited to your coronation and arrived early. Poseidona helped speed their boat along. She said she owed you a favor.” Odyssea was still awestruck by this turn of events. She hurried down the staircase and to the audience hall. She entered and everyone turned her way. Telemachus, Queen Alcina, Nausico, and a woman with a sour face were seated around the table. The woman was surely none other than Queen Reveka. “What is the meaning of this?!” Reveka demanded, the dark crown almost falling off her head. “I have something I need to say,” Odyssea said, her face turning crimson. She turned to look at Nausico, then approached and stood in front of Queen Alcina. “I would like to ask for Nausico’s hand in marriage,” she said. “I love him and I would like to marry him. Nausico, will you marry me?” Nausico smiled and was about to reply, when the other queen spoke. “He’s betrothed to me!” she said smugly. “We just sealed the deal.” Odyssea looked around at the others’ sad faces. Surely they weren’t happy about this. “Odyssea got to me first,” Nausico said, holding up his ring. “She made me a promise.” “You need this alliance,” Reveka said. “Otherwise, my armies will come against your kingdom.” “Are you threatening them?” Odyssea demanded. “I have the contract right here,” the queen said. “Nausico is mine!” Odyssea pulled out her sword in rage, causing the others to gasp. “I’ll fight you for him!” she challenged. “Or are you too afraid of a little match?” Reveka smiled. “I accept your challenge. When I win, you will provide me with soldiers I can add to my army.” “I thought you already had ‘armies?’” Odyssea asked. Reveka grinned maliciously without answering. They went into the arena, armor and weapons in place. “Be on your guard. She’s known as the Dagger Queen,” Nausico whispered to Odyssea before she entered the arena. “Please be careful. She’s brutal and strong.” “I promise I will not let her take you away,” Odyssea gave Nausico a soft kiss. “I believe in you,” Nausico kissed her back, then moved away so the two women could fight. Reveka grinned, her teeth looking pointy, and she swung her sword expertly, barely missing Odyssea’s head. Odyssea had jumped back just in time, but now she leaped forward and swung at her shoulder. The enemy parried with her sword and the clang of metal rang in Odyssea’s ears. They continued attacking and blocking, Reveka’s moves forceful and relentless. She was strong and taller than Odyssea, but Odyssea had her own advantages. Odyssea ducked down and struck at her opponent’s middle. Reveka was fast and immediately blocked with her shield. Odyssea took an extra second to get up and Reveka grazed her arm with her blade. Odyssea felt pain and blood dripped down her arm from a shallow gash. Odyssea needed to end this fast or the loss of blood would weaken her. She decided to try something different. She swung her sword and instead of striking, she twisted it and thrust it towards her opponent’s middle. Reveka tried to block but Odyssea’s blade cut her in the side. “You monster!” she shouted. “I’m going to kill you right here and now!” With extra fury, she threw herself forward, her blade aiming at Odyssea’s neck. Odyssea jumped to the side and performed a roll, coming up to land on her feet. “Your sword!” Nausico yelled. Odyssea cursed. During the roll, the sword had dropped from her hand and was two feet away. Odyssea couldn’t get to it in time. Not unless she wanted the blade to cut her in two. Reveka began to laugh. “You thought you could best me? Nausico is mine!” “I’m not anyone’s!” Nausico yelled angrily. Reveka turned her glare on him. “I will teach you some respect!” she said. While she was occupied glaring at Nausico, Odyssea leaped and slammed into her sword arm, forcing her to fall backwards. Reveka’s blade came up and sliced the area near Odyssea’s shoulder. The wound burned like nothing she’d ever felt before and she started to sway. No. She couldn’t let Nausico be taken by the likes of her! All of a sudden, she felt strength seep into her, helping to clear the fog from her vision. Atheno was lending her some of his strength. Now she could see clearly. Reveka’s blade had slipped out of her hand during the fall. Odyssea grabbed it now, with her non-injured side- and held the sword point to her neck. “Surrender and escape with your life!” Odyssea demanded. The fight left Reveka’s eyes. “He’s not worth it!” she yelled. “You can have him!” Odyssea stood back and watched as Reveka got to her feet and was quickly surrounded by guards, who promptly escorted her out of the palace grounds. She had sent her packing at last. Nausico ran to Odyssea and wrapped his arms around her. Odyssea winced in pain and felt the dizziness overcome her. She couldn’t hold herself up any longer and gave in to the darkness that enveloped her vision. Nausico caught her before she hit the ground. 7.3 Odyssea woke up in her chambers to find Nausico tending to her wounds. The cuts on her arm and shoulder had been stitched up and bandaged. Nausico sat at the edge of her bed and cupped his hand around her cheek. “Ody,” he said, and a tear trailed down his face. “What you did back there. You…I don’t even know what to say. I’m sorry you were injured. Your father went to have a word with Reveka, probably threatening her and making sure she never shows her face here again. At least that’s what I hope is happening.” “I’m glad she didn’t take you away,” Odyssea said. She winced and tried to sit up. “I’m just grateful you’re okay. Here, let me help you,” Nausico helped her sit up and kept his arm around her shoulder, sitting right next to her, not wanting to let go. Odyssea tried to hide her blush. “Your father will be back soon,” Nausico said. Odyssea liked the feel of his arm around her. She remembered when they’d kissed and the time she’d given him the promise ring. Had things been resolved now? Would she and Nausico finally be able to get married? Telemachus entered right then. His brow furrowed when he noticed where Nausico was sitting. He gave him a pointed stare. Nausico blushed and slowly moved away from Odyssea and stood up, feeling awkward under Telemachus’ scrutiny. Telemachus took the chair near the bed. “How are you feeling?” he asked his daughter. “That was very brave of you, by the way.” “I’m all right,” Odyssea said. “I’m just glad that monster left.” “Son, please have a seat,” Telemachus motioned Nausico to a chair. Queen Alcina knocked on the door and was let in, sitting down in a chair as well. “Now that we’re all here, perhaps we can talk about marriage arrangements,” Telemachus said. “Queen Alcina, it’s my understanding that these two really care about each other and would like to be joined in marriage.” “I’m in favor of this marriage,” Alcina smiled at her son. She reached out and took Odyssea’s hand. “Thank you for freeing my son from my mistake. I should never have betrothed him to that monster. You see, she had threatened my kingdom and I found myself wallowing in fear. Thank you for what you did for us. We will always be your allies.” “Thank you,” Odyssea said. “Then we have a marriage to plan,” Telemachus stood up, inviting Queen Alcina to join him in the study. “Let’s leave these two alone to talk things out.” The parents left the room. “They’re gone,” Odyssea gave a sly smile and patted the seat next to her on the bed. Nausico shyly returned to his place at her side, gently draping his arm around her shoulders once more. “Thanks for taking care of my wounds,” Odyssea said. “I guess I was a bit careless and got myself injured.” “You’re stronger than her,” Nausico said. “But enough talk about her or your injuries. Let’s talk about us. Our future.” Odyssea’s cheeks turned red. “I will be crowned queen in a few weeks,” she said. “And will finally take the throne. I’m kind of nervous about it. But I’m glad we’ll rule together.” “I will help you in any way I can,” Nausico said. Odyssea looked into his eyes. “I am deeply in love with you,” she said. Nausico’s ears turned red and he grinned. “I know,” he said. “You fought a monster for me. I am in love with you too. And I intend to show you.” He leaned in and kissed her on the lips. Odyssea shyly caressed his cheek and pulled him closer. She winced as the wound on her shoulder throbbed. “I guess we’d better not get too carried away,” she smiled. “There will be plenty of that after the wedding,” Nausico grinned, then seemed mortified that he’d said that out loud. “Of course,” Odyssea laughed. The coronation came and went, with Odyssea receiving the crown and becoming queen of Ithaca. Atheno made an appearance and crowned her himself. He then asked for the eye pendant, which was promptly returned to him. Now Odyssea was Queen of Ithaca. Now she’d be the one leading the meetings in the hall and the audience chamber. She had sat in with her father plenty of times but wasn’t sure she was ready yet. She confided her fears to Nausico. “You’re stronger than you think you are,” he said. “When you feel discouraged or unsure, just remember all the things you went through during your voyage. Your adventure is what helped you realize the strength you already had.” “Thank you for that,” Odyssea said. Two weeks after the coronation, the wedding day arrived. Odyssea and Nausico stood facing each other before the minister, holding hands. “And now, Queen Odyssea, and Prince Nausico, I join you two in marriage. Cherish each other in times of trouble and need, joy and sorrow. Honor each other and remember the vow you’ve made.” Odyssea and Nausico kissed and the festivities started. All the townsfolk had been invited and there was plenty of food for everyone. Odyssea had also made sure that none of the food resembled a lotus fruit in any way. After the feast, the dancing began, but Odyssea was exhausted. “Are you ready to turn in, my prince?” she smiled. “Yes, my queen. And I suppose I get to move into your room today,” he grinned. “Why? You don’t like the guest quarters?” Odyssea joked. “Of course not, the company wasn’t as nice,” Nausico replied. Odyssea took his hand and led him to her room. Their room now. The door closed behind her and they were finally alone. The window revealed the starlit sky outside. “I can’t believe I have you all to myself now,” she smiled at him. “And nobody will interrupt us or they’ll face the wrath of the queen and it will be off with their heads!” Nausico giggled, moving towards the bed. “I believe that’s from a children’s story,” Odyssea followed him. “And no, I don’t own a guillotine. So people are safe.” “I wonder how much you saw that day on the beach,” Odyssea giggled. “When my clothes were in tatters.” “Well, I did see a lot of skin,” Nausico flirted. “You left very little to the imagination.” “You are hilarious,” Odyssea laughed, pulling his face to hers. “I’m happy to provide the entertainment,” Nausico said. Odyssea reached for the nightstand and extinguished the lantern, shrouding the room in complete darkness other than the starlight coming from the window. “I didn’t know you were so romantic,” Nausico said. “Well, I had to fight a monster to have you,” Odyssea replied. “Now I get to show you how much I treasure you.” She snuggled closer to him and kissed him gently. 7.4 Three weeks later Odyssea was still getting used to ruling Ithaca and trying to live up to her father’s footsteps. The burden of ruling a kingdom was tough to handle at times, but she had Nausico by her side to help her. Nausico woke up and rubbed his eyes. “I had a dream about a crown,” he said. “It’s your coronation day!” Odyssea said excitedly. “You will officially become king!” Nausico gasped. “It’s today?!” He jumped out of bed. “I’d better go get ready! Don’t want to be late!” he rushed into the bathroom. “The monarch is never late!” Odyssea called after him. “But I’m not technically king yet!” Nausico’s muffled voice came from the other side of the door. “Yes, but I’m queen. If I arrive after you, then you will be considered as having arrived early.” Nausico ran out of the bathroom and began frantically getting dressed, tossing clothes here and there. “What are you doing?” Odyssea asked. “Just calm down and breathe!” She took hold of his shoulders and Nausico took a deep breath to calm his racing heart. “You’ll be fine,” Odyssea said. She gave a sly smile and raced to the bathroom, shutting the door behind her and laughing. “I wasn’t finished!” Nausico had raced as well but arrived only as the door had closed with a snap. “Better luck next time!” Odyssea called out. Nausico had practiced for his coronation day a few times and so when the music started, he knew that was his cue to start walking. He reached the front of the main hall and looked out over the audience. Atheno arrived and led Nausico through the Oath. “I promise to serve the people and rule wisely,” Nausico said. “I will be a fair, wise, and merciful ruler.” “Please proceed with the crown,” Atheno glanced at Odyssea. She was surprised, not knowing she’d be the one bestowing the crown on Nausico. She took the crown carefully from the table and walked to stand before Nausico. “Prince Nausico. I bestow the crown of Ithaca upon you. You are now King of Ithaca,” Odyssea announced, placing the crown on his head. Nausico looked into her eyes and Odyssea thought she saw a glint of tears on his face. She took his hand and they faced the audience, who began to cheer. Next they walked to their thrones and sat down. “How does it feel to be king?” Odyssea whispered. The crowd was still cheering and clapping, so they couldn’t hear them. She reached over and wiped a tear from his eye. The audience noticed and some were moved to tears as well. “It feels like I’m having trouble breathing,” Nausico looked like he was on the verge of a panic attack. “Take a deep breath,” Odyssea whispered. She realized he was probably overwhelmed. She put a hand on his shoulder, hoping to send comfort to him. He took her hand and clasped it tightly. “I think I’ll be all right,” he said finally. “I present to you Queen Odyssea and King Nausico,” Atheno announced. The audience cheered again and the festivities started. Telemachus made his way over. Odyssea and Nausico stood up. Telemachus hugged Odyssea and then turned to Nausico. “I congratulate you,” he said. “You will be a wonderful king.” And then, to Nausico’s surprise, Telemachus enveloped him into a tight hug. “The people love you,” Odyssea said as they walked in the garden later that day. “They got teary-eyed when I brushed the tear from your face. It showed them that you’re human and that you are caring and compassionate.” “I think I was just overwhelmed, truthfully,” Nausico said. “It’s a lot to get used to,” Odyssea said. “Thankfully we have each other.” She took his hands and leaned in for a kiss. Nausico smiled and kissed her back. “When the future enemy comes, we’ll be ready,” Odyssea said. “I just wish I knew who this future enemy is and when they’ll attack. Tyresia didn’t provide any details.” “Yeah, it seems like these kinds of things aren’t known even to the seers,” Nausico said. “But maybe we can ask her to give us any details she remembers. That will help us narrow things down,” she said. Nausico’s face paled. “Why do I feel so heavy? It’s like there’s a huge boulder on my shoulders. Have I become Sisyphus?” he sat down on a bench with a weary sigh. “I think it’s because you’re not used to this feeling,” Odyssea sat next to him and draped an arm around his shoulders. “I’ve known all my life I was going to be queen. But you were the younger child in your family and didn’t have this responsibility looming over you.” “True,” Nausico said. “All this is new to me, but I promise to do my best.” “Then we’re a perfect match,” Odyssea smiled. “We can do anything when we work together.” THE END
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Odyssea and her crew land on the cyclops' island and search for a missing person. Photo by Ben Dumond on Unsplash 6.1
That afternoon, after saying their goodbyes to Queen Alcina, the crew sailed off and headed north. Odyssea told her crew everything she knew about the cyclops’ island and they formed a plan to get Polyphema. After hours of sailing, Eurylocha remarked, “Look who we found, Ody!” Odyssea went to see what was going on and found a girl she’d never seen before, a scarf tied around her head and face. Her peplos and cloak was long and the folds hid her entire body. “You there,” Odyssea called. “Why are you covering your face? Sailors are to wear chitons. You can’t move around much in a cloak as lengthy as that one. How come I’ve never seen you before? Come on, show your face.” The young woman tried to run away but Odyssea tackled her to the floor and tore the scarf from her face. “Nausico!” Odyssea yelled, surprised. She was speechless for a long moment as Nausico’s blue eyes stared up at her. “What are you doing here?” she questioned him, tossing the scarf aside. “Hey, Ody,” he smiled at her. “I stowed away on your boat.” “Oh, I’m going to be in so much trouble!” Odyssea said. She heard some snickers and glanced at her crew members. They were all looking at her with smirks on their faces. She realized she was still hovering over Nausico, who was lying flat on his back. Immediately, she got up and helped him to his feet. “Girls! We have to turn back!” she said frantically. “We can’t turn back,” Polita explained. “The wind is moving this way.” “I’m a medic and I can assist your ship’s medic,” Nausico said. “Um…our crew doesn’t really have a medic,” Polita said. “We all know basic first aid, but it was hard finding an actual medic.” “Well, now you have me,” Nausico grinned. Odyssea stared at him, not knowing how to react. The last time they’d seen each other, she’d thought she’d be leaving him behind, and so she had confessed her feelings and given him a promise ring. Her duty to her kingdom had collapsed in that moment. But things were different now. She needed to keep her distance from him. The love between her and Nausico could never be, because she had a duty to her kingdom. Days later the island of the cyclops came into view. It was mountainous and rocky and they gathered their supplies together for the journey up the mountain. Odyssea took Nausico aside. “I can’t risk you getting hurt,” she said. “You should stay on the boat. Actually, I can assign a bodyguard to you…” “Ody, I’m not helpless,” Nausico said. “I do know something or two about combat.” “Right, it’s just that if something happens to you your mother will blame me. I’m responsible for you.” “No, I’m responsible for my own actions,” Nausico frowned. “I know,” Odyssea hung her head. “But I doubt your mother will see it that way. If you get hurt, she’s going to turn her wrath onto me.” “It won’t happen,” Nausico put a hand on her shoulder. “All right, come with us,” Odyssea relented, not knowing what else to do. “Please, Atheno,” she said under her breath. “Keep us safe. Keep Nausico safe especially.” As they hiked through the grass and up the mountain, they came across a large fortress. It was built out of boulders and the pillars were made out of the trunks of oak and pine trees. The interesting thing about the fortress was that it had no door, and the crew noticed sheep and goats coming in and out of the wide entrance. “Well, shall we go in?” Odyssea asked her crew members. They nodded and walked forward. The crew entered into a courtyard with numerous pens for the animals. “Are you the new shepherds?” a cyclop asked. “You’re awfully tiny for shepherds.” “Actually, we are here to see your leader,” Odyssea said. “All right, follow me,” the cyclop led them into a main hall and invited them to take a seat at the table. Several minutes later, another cyclop arrived. She towered over them by several feet. She had long blond hair and wore a red tunic. A red sash was tied around her forehead, framing the one eye. “Welcome to my fortress. I am Queen Cycla, the leader of this island. I invite you to stay for a few days. I’ll provide you with food and lodging.” “Thank you,” Odyssea said. “We are grateful for your hospitality.” Cycla offered them wine and honey, along with bread, cheese, and fruit. The crew was surprised to see a line of sheep coming in with trays on their backs filled with food. “Wow, your sheep are well trained!” Eurylocha remarked. “They are not common sheep,” Cycla said proudly. “They are very talented.” “Where do you hail from and what brings you to our island?” Cycla asked. “We come from Ithaca and are here to form an alliance with your people,” Odyssea said. “But we also have a more important matter. We’re searching for a lost person.” Cycla was quiet for a moment, then resumed speaking. “All right. We will discuss the terms of our agreement tomorrow,” Cycla said. “Please rest from your travels. My sheep will show you to your rooms.” Odyssea noticed the change in subject but didn’t comment on it. After the meal, the crew members began yawning. The sheep lined up and the crew members followed them to their rooms. Each room could fit 2-4 crew members. Odyssea and Nausico found themselves sharing a room. There was a window to one side overlooking the sheep pens. A few blankets were laid out on the floors and there were pillows made out of sheep’s wool. Odyssea closed the door and lay down on the blanket. The dark sky outside hid her blush at being roommates with Nausico. She should have asked to switch with someone. “Hey, Ody,” Nausico sat next to her. “Queen Cycla seems very kind.” “Yes,” Odyssea said. “We got lucky this time. She seems reasonable and hopefully we’ll find Polyphema soon.” Nausico extinguished the lantern and lay down a few feet away, his hands behind his head. “You made me a promise that day,” he whispered after a moment. “But now you act like you’re unhappy I’m here.” “I’m very happy you’re here,” Odyssea said. “I just wonder if my promise was made in haste. What will my father think about me trying to get out of the arranged marriage he’s set up for me?” “I suppose you want your ring back?” Nausico said slowly. “No, please keep it for now,” Odyssea said. “Actually, I don’t want to withdraw my promise.” Her voice ended with a tremor. “And I don’t want you to,” Nausico whispered. “But I truly hope it all works out.” 6.2 The next morning, the sheep led them back to the dining hall and brought them breakfast. “So, did you have fun last night?” Eurylocha grinned from her seat next to Odyssea. Odyssea’s cheeks turned red, but she managed to stamp her heel onto Eurylocha’s big toe. Eurylocha yelped in pain, glaring at her captain. “I guess not,” she said, then took her plate and moved to another seat. In the afternoon, they had lunch and the sheep and shepherds gave them a tour of the place. After dinner, the queen was ready for business. Odyssea went in to talk to her privately. “We’re searching for Calypse’s sister,” Odyssea began. “Her name is Polyphema. Do you know where she might be?” “I’ve heard the name before,” Cycla sat back and frowned. “I’m afraid Polyphema is dead.” “Dead?” Odyssea gasped. “What happened to her?” “She is no more,” Cycla said, and a tear trailed down her face. She had grown so quiet and Odyssea wondered what had happened. “Was she one of your close friends?” Odyssea asked gently. “She was the closest one can be to another,” Cycla replied. “Tell me how she died. Maybe I can avenge her death,” Odyssea said with resolve. “No, there’s nothing you can do,” Cycla said with finality. “Now, about the alliance,” Cycla shifted the subject. “What do you propose?” Odyssea explained about the prophecy and the upcoming enemy attack that would come to Ithaca. “We’d be happy to form an alliance,” Cycla said. “But we ask for human shepherds to look after the lambs. Can you provide that?” “I’m sure we can,” Odyssea said. “By the way, who’s that young man you’re with?” Cycla asked. “The rest of your crew members are young women. Why is there only one guy? Is he your lover?” “He’s our medic,” Odyssea said quickly. “Actually, he stowed away on our ship. He was escaping some unfortunate circumstances so we took him in.” “That’s very kind of you,” Cycla thought for a moment. That night, as they got ready for bed, Odyssea told Nausico what had transpired at the meeting with Cycla. “She doesn’t want to talk about it,” Odyssea said. “I believe she’s hiding something. Surely she knows how Polyphema died.” “Perhaps she’s still grieving,” Nausico said. Then he smiled. “Why don’t you ask the sheep? I’m sure they can point you in the right direction.” Odyssea snickered. “The sheep are smart but I don’t think they’re that smart.” Nausico was about to extinguish the lantern when he saw Odyssea get up. “Where are you going?” he asked. “I’m going to snoop around and see what I can find out,” she said. “Would you like to come?” Nausico smiled and they went out the door. “Here sheep, sheep,” Odyssea whispered. She’d seen the guards stationed outside and didn’t want to be discovered. “Not like that,” Nausico said. “Here’s how you do it.” He gave a low whistle, which sounded like a pigeon call. Next, they heard pattering and a couple of sheep came over. “Where did you learn how to do that?” Odyssea asked in awe. “It’s how I call the horses,” Nausico grinned. “Turns out it also works on sheep.” Odyssea climbed over one of the large sheep and draped a blanket over herself. Once Nausico was similarly hidden on the second sheep, the sheep scampered forward right past the guards. After they’d gone past the guards, the sheep wandered into their pens. “I suppose this is where they sleep,” Odyssea said. “Now let’s see if we can find some kind of dungeon or tower. Perhaps Polyphema is locked up somewhere.” They made their rounds in the darkness, searching for anything suspicious. “What if she’d hidden in plain sight? Like maybe the barn over there?” Nausico suggested. They had searched for a couple of hours but hadn’t found anything. “Let’s check it out,” Odyssea said. When they entered the barn they saw it was filled with lots of sheep. After searching every corner, they headed back to their room. “Who goes there?” a voice boomed. “Let’s hide!” Odyssea hissed. She noticed a small alcove and pulled Nausico into the small space with her. They had to scrunch together to fit in the tiny space. A few stray sheep trotted by and one stopped right in front of the alcove, blocking it. Heavy footsteps passed by and faded into the distance. Odyssea’s heart thudded in her chest. That has been close. What would Cycla do if she found them sneaking around? The alliance would be off, surely. “Maybe we can hide under the sheep,” Nausico whispered. “If we walk with it. That one’s big enough to cover us both.” They bent down and hid under the sheep, walking with it. But where would the sheep go? They followed it and were led back into the hallway of lodging. “That was close,” Odyssea said. She and Nausico headed to their room only to find an angry cyclop inside. 6.3 “Cycla!” Odyssea said, shocked. The lanterns were lit and a shadow met them inside. The cyclop was pacing near the window, her arms crossed in front of her. She turned a glare on them. “What were you doing snooping around my fortress?” Cycla demanded. “Oh, we were just exploring the place,” Odyssea stammered. Cycla came right up to her so that she towered over her. “I think I know what you were doing,” she said. The glare faded and was replaced by a smirk. “So he is your lover,” Cycla grinned. “You two ran off to find a place to be alone. Wait. But why would you do that if you’re sharing a room here?” “Oh, well, it’s more fun when your privacy’s at risk,” Nausico jabbered in a rush. Odyssea thought he was adorable when he rambled. “Then if you have nothing to hide, you’ll have no trouble leaving him here while you sail off and get someone for me,” Cycla’s voice became a sharp knife. “Who is it that you want?” Odyssea was curious. “I want that horrible brother of mine! Calypse!” Cycla shouted. “He deserves to be punished for abandoning me!” “Wait a moment… you’re Polyphema?” Odyssea backed up in shock until the wall stopped her. “I told you already. Polyphema has died. I was her but am now Cycla,” Cycla said. “He sent me to find you! He cares about you!” Odyssea walked forward. “He’s been stuck on an island. That’s why he hasn’t been able to come to you.” “That odious brother of mine,” Cycla said angrily. “Never cared for me.” “Well, I lived on that island for several months and he wouldn’t let me leave,” Odyssea said. “I got to know him. I agree he’s arrogant, sneaky, and tyrannical at times. But if he asked me to find you, that shows he truly cares for you and has not forgotten you. In fact, he tried to steal this.” Odyssea pulled out her eye necklace. “He wanted to come find you. And it took me the longest time to get this back! Imagine a small human like myself trying to succeed against an immortal!” “I suppose you did best him in the end?” Cycla asked. “Yes, I got this back,” Odyssea said. Cycla gave a small smile. “That I would have liked to see.” She reached out a hand and touched the pendant. Suddenly a flash of light filled the whole room and Cycla gasped. A light enveloped her and her form grew smaller. Then the flash of light disappeared. The lanterns had all gone dark and Odyssea could barely see in the darkness. Nausico went to light the lantern. “Cycla! Are you all right?” Odyssea hurried over to where Cycla had been and found her lying on the floor, gasping for breath. “I’m okay,” Cycla coughed a bit and sat up. Odyssea was startled to see two eyes instead of one. Plus, Cycla had shrunk back to a human size. “I’m Polyphema again,” the young woman said. She touched her face. “And I have two eyes!” “Polyphema, can we take you to your brother? Would you like to see him after all this time?” Odyssea asked. “Yes, I’ll visit him,” Polyphema said. “I never thought I’d be in this form again. Thank you, Odyssea. Count me as one of your alliances.” Odyssea took her hands and helped her to her feet. Odyssea watched as Calypse and Polyphema ran into each other’s arms. They held each other tightly and when they pulled apart, Odyssea noticed tears in Calypse’s eyes. He kept his arm around Polyphema and looked over at Odyssea. “Thank you for bringing her back to me,” he said. He invited her crew over for dinner and that evening he pulled her aside to talk to her privately. “I want to ask, have you thought about my proposal? Have you come back to choose immortality?” “I’m afraid not,” Odyssea said. “My heart is taking me a different way. I choose the mortal path.” “All right,” Calypse said, giving her one last hug. “Now we take you back to your mother,” Odyssea told Nausico. His expression immediately wilted but he got on the boat anyway. When they arrived, Odyssea accompanied Nausico into the palace. The king and queen were called and they hurried over, wrapping their arms around Nausico. “Nausico! We were so worried about you!” Queen Alcina gave him a fierce hug. The king wouldn’t let go of him. “Please…let me breathe!” Nausico said. The king and queen moved away and gave him space. “Thank you for taking care of him,” the king said. “I want to explain,” Nausico said. “None of this was Odyssea’s idea. I stowed away on her ship in disguise and they didn’t realize it until later.” “Maybe it was for the best,” Alcina said. “When the ruthless queen came to meet you, she saw you weren’t here and withdrew her invitation on the grounds that you are ‘capricious and impulsive.’ Those were her words, not mine.” They all chuckled at that. “Well, he’s definitely impulsive,” Odyssea grinned. Nausico seemed relieved that his engagement had fallen through. “I don’t have to marry that horrible person anymore!” Nausico’s smile was back. He gave Odyssea a hug before they parted ways. “I’m going back home,” Odyssea said. “I will talk to my father about us.” “I’m going to miss you,” Nausico said. “Can’t we just have a marriage ceremony here and then go to Ithaca together?” “I must speak with my father first,” Odyssea said. “I don’t know whether my marriage is set in stone or not. If it is, and I back out, it could mean war. I have to be careful. I will see you again.” She wrapped her arms around Nausico and kissed him. A tear slid down his face and Odyssea smiled sadly and brushed his tear away. A few days later, Nausico noticed his mother seemed very worried. She was pacing back and forth, holding a letter. “Mother, are you all right?” Nausico asked. “What is it?” “It’s a letter from Queen Reveka,” his mother said despondently. “She wants to go ahead with the wedding. Says she was too hasty and that she’ll give you another chance.” She handed the letter to him and shook her head, defeated. “I’m sorry about this,” she told him. “But we need this alliance. Desperately.” Nausico stared open-mouthed at the letter. He felt the energy drain out of him and stumbled back to his quarters. He collapsed onto his bed and a deep grief came over him. Photo by Lorenzo Spoleti on Unsplash 5.1
Odyssea had been sleeping on a bed of leaves behind some bushes after ending up on shore the night before, her clothing reduced to tatters. The sunlight hit her eyes and she realized it was morning. Her stomach rumbled and she felt so fatigued she could barely get up. She just wanted to lie there and sleep forever. When she heard sounds of laughter from nearby, she stood shakily and peered through the underbrush. She spotted three young men kicking a ball to one another. One of them wore a formal toga and seemed to be having trouble playing, since the toga kept getting in the way of his feet. He tripped at one point and the other two- who wore simple chitons- laughed at him. She glanced down at her torn chiton and pulled a strand of seaweed out of her tangled hair. Salt from the water coated her skin. She felt dirty and ashamed, not wanting anyone to see her in this state. She’d even lost her sandals at sea, but thankfully she still had the eye pendant, still secured around her neck and hidden under her clothes. I have to ask for help, she thought. Maybe one of the three strangers would be willing to help her. Taking a deep breath, she stepped out of the trees, then noticed some laundry hanging between two trees on a rope. Maybe she could sneak over there and take some clothes. Before she could decide, a ball came hurtling in her direction and hit the tree trunk next to her, then bounced and came to a stop a few feet away. “I’ll get it!” one of the boys said. He ran over and stopped short when he saw her. “Excuse me!” she called out, wrapping her arms around herself to cover herself better. “Could you help me please?” The young man recoiled and ran in the other direction, screaming, “There’s a creepy witch in the forest! Run!” The second young man glimpsed her as well, gave a small scream, and went running like a bullet after the first one. They soon disappeared. Odyssea had never seen anyone run so fast before. Do I really look that scary? Odyssea wondered, glancing down at herself. A flash of anger sizzled in her mind and she decided she didn’t care how much skin showed through her tattered chiton or if people were terrified of her. She was going to find help. A wave of dizziness wove through her mind. Time for anger later, she told herself. After I get some food in me. She was famished and dizzy, the weakness making her feel distressed. Tears formed in the corners of her eyes. Was anyone going to help her? She should just give up now and just die here. She figured the third young man would run away as well. The toga guy yelled after his companions to come back, and when they didn’t, he approached the edge of the forest. “Hello?” the young man asked. “Do you need any help?” Odyssea looked up when she heard him address her. He had blond hair and blue eyes, and wore a light orange toga. Maybe she could trust him. He hadn’t scampered away like the other two. “Please help me. I’ve been out at sea for many days and have landed here on this land I don’t know the name of,” Odyssea said. “I know my state seems awful, but I assure you I am not a witch and am only in need of assistance. I was shipwrecked and just last night arrived at these shores. I ask you to help me get some clothing and food.” “Are you injured in any way?” the young man scanned her quickly. “I’m a medic’s apprentice. My name is Nausico. Please let me treat your injuries.” Odyssea’s face reddened and she shook her head. She didn’t want a man to examine her. Especially not one that was around the same age as her. “I’ve taken care of my injury,” she pointed to a leaf she’d wrapped around her upper arm. “Take this,” Nausico took off his toga, leaving him in his chiton. He handed her the cloth and Odyssea wrapped it around herself, feeling relieved. Nausico gave Odyssea a bar of soap so she could bathe in the sea. He stood guard while she washed in privacy. After Odyssea washed the saltwater from her skin and the seaweed out of her hair, she put on the blue chiton that Nausico had given her. Numerous cuts and bruises dotted her arms and legs. The gash on her upper arm had begun to bleed again, and she secured the leaf around it once more. When she emerged from behind the trees, Nausico was astounded at how much better she appeared. “Thank you for your help,” Odyssea said. Nausico laid out the picnic he’d brought and they sat down to eat. Odyssea was ravenous with hunger. “I feel like I haven’t eaten in days,” she said. “Slow down or it will come back up,” Nausico cautioned. “I’ll try,” Odyssea promised. “May I ask your name?” Nausico asked. “I’m Ody,” Odyssea gave her nickname, not wanting to disclose her identity. “Ody, your arm is bleeding. May I bandage it?” Nausico asked. Odyssea nodded and Nausico removed the leaf and examined the injury. “There’s no sign of infection,” he said. He bandaged her upper arm with a soft cloth. “The bleeding will stop soon,” Nausico said. “Apply some pressure on this wound and you’ll be fine.” “Thank you,” Odyssea said. “Ody, shall we ride in my coach?” Nausico said. “I will introduce you to my mother, Queen Alcina, and she will assist you further.” “So you’re a prince,” Odyssea said. “I’m sorry. I guess I should bow and call you Your Highness and all that.” Nausico laughed. “No, I’m not that kind of prince.” “I appreciate your generosity,” Odyssea said. They climbed into the coach and rode to the palace. “What about your friends?” she scanned their surroundings. Nausico smirked. “I have no idea where they went! You gave them quite a scare. I wouldn’t be surprised if rumors start circulating soon about a ghost witch living in the forest.” Odyssea chuckled. “Well, now I know how to frighten people. All I need to do is get shipwrecked, tear my clothes, and toss a bunch of seaweed into my hair!” “I’m glad to see you’re feeling better, Ody,” Nausico smiled at her. The sound of him calling her by her nickname caused her heart to flutter. Odyssea’s cheeks blushed pink and she turned away to gaze at the road ahead. 5.2 When they arrived, Odyssea asked for a peplos to wear over her chiton, wanting to hide as many bruises and scratches as possible from the queen. Nausico introduced Odyssea to Queen Alcina, who invited Odyssea to sit beside her. “Would you stay with us awhile?” Queen Alcina asked. “You can stay at the palace. We’ll set up a room for you and we’ll even have a female medic attend to any injuries you may have incurred.” “I appreciate your hospitality,” Odyssea said. She agreed to stay for a week or two. At least until she figured out what was next in her journey. “We would love to hear the stories of your travels,” Queen Alcina said. “Would you care to enlighten us?” “I’d be glad to,” Odyssea smiled. She started to feel comfortable with these people. Nausico and the queen listened with rapt attention to everything she said, pausing now and then to ask a few questions. “And so that’s why I’m on this quest,” Odyssea said. “To find allies so that the future enemy will not conquer my kingdom. I am Odyssea, Princess of Ithaca. And the heir to the kingdom.” “That is very wise and brave of you, Odyssea,” Queen Alcina said. “Please count us as your allies. In fact, I have a proposition for you. Please come to my suite after dinner.” After the meal was over, Nausico was going to follow but the queen stopped him. “I wish to speak to Odyssea alone,” she said. Nausico felt disappointed but left them, and Odyssea and the queen went to the queen’s suite. Odyssea wondered what the queen wanted to talk to her about. Surely it was to talk about the alliance between their two kingdoms? The queen motioned for Odyssea to join her on the sofa. “I have something important to ask you,” the queen said. “You may take some time to think about it if you wish. It relates to the alliance of our two kingdoms but is not dependent on it. The decision is yours.” “Please tell me what is in your heart,” Odyssea said, her heart thudding. “My son Nausico has recently come of age,” the queen said. “He’s the second-born child, so he won’t be inheriting the title, but I am searching for a spouse for him. I believe he would make a fine husband for you and it would even cement the alliance further. I wish to know your thoughts but I understand if you need some time to think about it.” “Actually, I can answer you right now,” Odyssea said. “First of all, I am flattered that you would choose me for your son. I have one matter that prevents me from accepting this arrangement. You see…before I left Ithaca, my father, King Telemachus, was arranging my marriage. He said that when I returned he would tell me whom I’d be marrying. So I believe he’s arranged my marriage already and made a promise to someone. However, he never divulged the groom’s name to me, so I am uncertain how to proceed with your offer. I will have to speak to my father first and find out what arrangement he’s made. But I haven’t seen him in months and so I don’t have any updates.” “I understand,” Queen Alcina said graciously. “I also wish to know…in case the other arrangement falls through, would you be interested in marrying my dear son Nausico? He would come to live in your kingdom, of course.” “Yes, I would like that,” Odyssea’s cheeks blushed pink. “As long as Nausico feels the same way and wants to proceed.” “Agreed,” the queen said. “I shall be in touch with your father and we will see what arrangement would work best for our two kingdoms.” “Ody, what did my mother wish to talk to you about?” Nausico asked, as they strolled around in the garden. He had asked her there and now Odyssea knew why. “Please,” Nausico said when she was silent. “I’m certain the conversation was about me. Anytime there’s a young woman around- any beautiful and powerful woman- my mother brings up the question of my marriage,” Nausico blushed. “Oh…um…she was asking about whether I knew of any suitors for you to marry. I told her my sister is too young,” Odyssea lied, her cheeks reddening. She didn’t want to tell Nausico the truth, especially since the plan wasn’t set in stone. “Well,” Nausico’s eyes lit up and he took her hand. “I hope my future spouse is just like you. I don’t know whether you’re betrothed or not, but I hope my mother sets me up with someone of your valor and character.” Odyssea blushed. “I’m afraid I am betrothed,” she slowly pulled her hand back, hoping she hadn’t offended him. “The only issue is that my father hasn’t revealed the groom’s name. It will be a surprise on the day of the formal engagement, I suppose.” “I would feel so scared if that happened to me,” Nausico said. “But I’m sure your father has your best interest at heart and he will find someone worthy of you, Ody.” Odyssea blushed a deeper shade of red. It was cute how he continued to call her by her nickname, making her heart beat faster. They sat down on a garden bench. “During my travels, when I was stranded on Calypse’s island, he offered me immortality if I would marry him and stay with him. I pondered on this but I don’t think immortality would suit me. I don’t wish to live forever. I like the fact that life is temporary.” “That’s fascinating,” Nausico said. “I don’t know what I’d do if someone offered me immortality, but I imagine eventually one would tire of living for eternity. Especially on the same island.” “True,” Odyssea said. “I’m the second-born child,” Nausico said. “I don’t stand to inherit the kingdom or title. That will go to my elder sister. And so my mother wishes to find an inheriting princess or queen for me to marry. I would be moving to a new place and the thought fills me with part excitement, since I’ve never left this land, but also part dread, since I wouldn’t be able to see my mother and sister as often as I’d like.” “I understand your situation,” Odyssea said. “That’s always the lot of the children of rulers who aren’t the first-born. I wish you the best of luck and I hope you find someone that you will be happy with.” “I want to know everything about you, Ody,” Nausico said. “Would you like to ride in my coach and I could show you around the kingdom? Meanwhile, you can tell me about your life in Ithaca.” “I’d be glad to,” Odyssea said. 5.3 A few weeks passed and Queen Alcina had received a response from King Telemachus. “Unfortunately, he’s already chosen a groom for you,” Alcina said. “It doesn’t say who it is but I’m sure your father has picked someone right for you. Congratulations! Your father said that as soon as you return home you will be crowned and will meet your future husband.” “Oh,” Odyssea felt disappointed. “And he didn’t say who it is?” “I’m afraid not,” the queen seemed to sense Odyssea’s disappointment. “But, no matter, there are plenty of wonderful people in the world.” A few more weeks went by and one day after Odyssea was resting in her room, a knock came to the door. “Nausico,” Odyssea said after opening the door. She noted the dark look on his face. “What’s wrong?” she asked. “May I come in? Please, I really need someone to talk to,” he stared darkly at the floor. “All right,” Odyssea ushered him in and closed the door. They sat on the sofa by the window. “I wanted to ask if you could talk some sense into my mother,” Nausico said. “She’s a bit- let’s just say- controlling, and she just ruined my day by telling me she’s heard back from a suitor and has betrothed me to a queen who lives far away.” “Oh,” Odyssea didn’t know what to say. “Is she trying to get rid of me?” Nausico’s voice shook with anger. “And the other thing is, this queen is ruthless. I don’t want to marry someone like that.” “You shouldn’t be forced to marry someone you don’t want to,” Odyssea said. “After all, it’s you who will be living with the person, not your mother. So it should be up to you. What does your father think about all this?” “Well, as with many cultures, it’s traditional for the mother to arrange the marriages for her children. So my father is staying out of it. I’m afraid I have no say in the matter,” he put his head down. Odyssea reached out and put a comforting hand on his shoulder. “To tell you the truth, your mother asked me if I would marry you,” she slipped out, her face reddening. “Really?” Nausico looked up. “So what did you say?” “I told her the same thing I told you. That I’m betrothed,” Odyssea said. “What if you weren’t betrothed?” Nausico asked. “Would you consider it?” “I wouldn’t be opposed to it,” Odyssea blushed again, not wanting to give a straight answer. She definitely didn’t want to lead him on in any way. She had to leave Scheria as soon as possible and forget about Nausico. “Where are you off to next?” Nausico asked, after a long silence. “I’m searching for Calypse’s sister,” Odyssea said. “Nothing is set in stone, but I’m thinking of getting a boat and crew and sailing across to the island of the cyclops.” “I don’t want to marry a ruthless queen,” Nausico said. “Won’t you take me with you?” “Your mother will have my head if I take you away,” Odyssea said. “I can’t risk making the queen angry.” “You won’t get in trouble,” Nausico said. “I’ll tell her it was my decision. No one will blame you. Please.” “I don’t know what to say,” Odyssea didn’t like the idea, but she also didn’t want Nausico to be forced into a marriage he didn’t want. “Just talk to her and make up some person you have found for me to marry. Someone that supposedly lives in Ithaca. Let me come with you. I need to get out of this place!” Nausico said frantically. “I’ll tell you what. Come with me to the city tomorrow. We’re going to ask around about getting a crew and boat,” Odyssea said. Nausico smiled widely. “I can’t wait!” he said. He left with a spring in his step and Odyssea realized he thought she had agreed to the whole plan. What had she gotten herself into? That afternoon, Odyssea and Nausico took a coach to the port to search for a boat and a crew. A young man wearing sailor attire waited by the docks, leaning against a tree, as if he were expecting them. While Nausico dealt with the coach and horses, Odyssea approached the young sailor. “Hi Odyssea,” the young man said. “I am the son of a sea captain, and I have found a boat and crew for you.” Odyssea stared at the young man, noticing his enigmatic smile. “Atheno?” she whispered. The young man gave a slight nod and pointed to a group of young women gathered by a familiar boat. “Oh my goodness! Thank you!” Odyssea gave him a quick hug, then ran over to the group. When she turned back around, the sailor was nowhere to be seen. The young women saw her and there was a lot of excitement as Odyssea and her crew were reunited. Eurylocha and Polita hugged her tightly and told her they’d been searching for her. They had returned to Circes’ island and had found it empty, so they decided to scour the lands for her. Nausico shyly stood a little ways away, watching the crew reuniting with Odyssea. “This is my friend Nausico,” Odyssea introduced him to her crew. “He’s a prince and a medic’s apprentice.” “Well, he’s certainly very attractive,” Eurylocha laughed. Nausico’s cheeks turned pink. “We need to prepare for another journey,” Odyssea quickly changed the subject. “We’re going to find Calypse’s sister, Polyphema. And I believe my eye pendant may help us locate her.” 5.4 Polita prepared the maps for their journey to the Cyclops’ island, while Eurylocha and the others procured the supplies. “So you’ve been commanding the ship in my absence?” Odyssea smiled at her friend. “Yes,” Eurylocha said. “But it’s great to have you back. I’ve missed you.” “I thought I would never see you again,” Odyssea said, wiping a tear that had trailed down her cheek. “I cried so much on Circes’ island. I was so depressed. And then I went to the Underworld where I had a mental breakdown. Then I was shipwrecked and ended up in Calypse’s clutches. It took months to get away and now I’m here. And we’re going to free his sister who is being held captive by the cyclops.” “That’s quite the adventure,” Eurylocha said, putting a hand on her shoulder. “I’m so glad you came out in one piece.” She hugged her tightly. “I had come here to find a ship and crew, but imagine my surprise when I saw all of you here! I’m overjoyed!” Odyssea said. “Now, tell me about the handsome lad. Is he someone you’ve taken a fancy to?” Eurylocha winked. Odyssea’s face grew red like a tomato. “Well, I do like him, but I can’t. My father has arranged my marriage already and I agreed to it.” “And he hasn’t told you who the groom will be?” Eurylocha’s eyebrow shot up. Odyssea shook her head. “Well, that’s not very nice,” Eurylocha huffed. “What kind of parent sets up a marriage for their child without letting them know whom they’re marrying?” “My father,” Odyssea said flatly. “But it’s all right. I just want what’s best for my kingdom. So a marriage alliance is the way to go, I guess.” “Do you think you’ll love the person he chooses for you?” Eurylocha asked, concerned. “I don’t know,” Odyssea said. “Perhaps eventually. But it would be so weird marrying a stranger.” She didn’t want to speak negatively of her father, but the fact did bother her greatly. She truly wanted to know her future. She didn’t like all the uncertainty around her upcoming marriage, especially since it was something that her father could have easily revealed. A few days later, everything was ready for the journey. Odyssea and her crew were invited to dine in the palace. The queen raised her goblet to make an announcement. “I wanted to announce that my dear son Nausico has been betrothed to Queen Reveka! The wedding celebrations will be in two weeks’ time.” Odyssea turned to Nausico, who was seated beside her. He paled and stared at his food like he had turned to stone, while others nearby him murmured their congratulations. Once all that died down, and the guests were looking elsewhere, Odyssea reached under the table and clasped his hand, sending comfort to him. Nausico glanced at her and gave a slight nod, but then returned to vacantly staring at his food instead of eating it. As Odyssea packed up and was about to say her good-byes to the queen, Nausico stopped her and pulled her into the library. “I have to talk to you before you leave!” he hissed. He glanced around and saw that they were alone. “Take me with you!” he said. “Nausico, I’m so sorry,” Odyssea placed her hands on his shoulders. “I can’t get between you and your mother. I just can’t do that. This is between you and her. I’m sure if you talk to her, she won’t make you marry that queen.” “You don’t know my mother,” Nausico said, a tear sliding down his face. “She won’t budge! She’s only doing this because Reveka’s kingdom is stronger than ours and she wants an alliance because she’s afraid they might attack us otherwise.” “I’m so deeply sorry, but my kingdom needs this alliance and I can’t go against your mother,” Odyssea said. Nausico took a step back and sighed. “You’re right,” he said after a moment. “I can’t pull you into the politics of my kingdom. It’s not fair to you and your crew.” He turned to leave. “Wait!” Odyssea called. Nausico stopped but didn’t turn around. Odyssea went over to face him. For all her resolve to stay away from him, it all broke down in that moment. “Take this,” she took out a ring with a sapphire stone. “Keep it as a promise. I will return for you and if you still want to marry me, we will have our wish. I will get that ruthless queen to relinquish you.” She placed the ring in Nausico’s hand and he closed his fingers around it. He looked at her and a tear slid down his face. “I will treasure it,” he said. “I will wait for you.” “I haven’t known you very long, but I can tell that I love you,” Odyssea leaned in and gave him a gentle kiss on the lips. Nausico wrapped his arms around her waist and they leaned against each other for a few moments. “I have to go,” Odyssea caressed his cheek. “But we will meet again.” “I love you too, Ody,” Nausico said. They heard footsteps and Odyssea flew out the door before anyone could see them together. Odyssea is shipwrecked and lands on Calypse's island. Image by Jonny Belvedere from Pixabay 4.1
Odyssea held on to the mast for what felt like days, clinging for dear life amidst the endless sea. The past few days had been a blur. Lightning and tempestuous waves had struck her raft and she had grabbed the mast as it snapped off. It kept her afloat, safeguarding her life. For now, at least. Now the storm had abated and the sea was calm. Odyssea was drenched and freezing, her wavy brown hair in tangles. She lifted her head and noticed an island in the distance. It seemed very green, filled with all kinds of trees. As the mast carried her to shore, Odyssea finally let go of the pole and succumbed to exhaustion. Right before descending into oblivion, she thought she glimpsed a shadow approaching. The last thought on her mind was her precious eye pendant, her most treasured possession. Odyssea opened her eyes and found herself lying on a thick quilt made of soft, brown fur. Could it be the pelt of a bear? A fire burned in a large hearth in the spacious room, and it seemed like she was in some kind of open cavern. She sat up and looked around. It was a beautiful cavern with lots of light and circular windows that looked out into a grove of trees. Odyssea wondered who had saved her. Soon she heard singing, along with footsteps coming down the hall, and the melodious voice getting closer. A dashing young man came into the room, with dark hair and wearing a bright purple chiton. Odyssea wondered at the bold color, since it was costly to acquire that rich hue. “Welcome to my home,” the young man smiled. “My name is Calypse. I’m the grandson of the goddess Calypso. This is my island, officially named Ogygia. But I call it the Island of Delight! You are fortunate to have arrived here, since I’m one of the most attractive descendants of the gods.” Odyssea stifled a laugh. “I’m Odyssea, daughter of Telemachus, King of Ithaca,” Odyssea said. “You saved my life, Calypse, and I am honored to be in your presence.” “Well, I’m honored to be in your presence,” Calypse grinned. “I have not laid eyes on such a beautiful girl as yourself before.” Odyssea felt a blush creep past her cheeks. “I rejoice to have such a fine guest as yourself in my home,” Calypse said. “You’ve been shipwrecked, I gather. There was a harsh tempest a few days ago and I noticed remains from your ship wash ashore. You must be famished and tired. I have prepared a bath and some clothing for you.” He handed her a folded bundle and showed her to the bath room. After he left, Odyssea looked around the bright cavern, where a large pool waited, and it seemed warm, like a hot spring. She eased out of her drenched clothes and slipped inside, the warm water washing the saltwater from her skin. She was still exhausted and lingered in the spring for some time, not wanting the comfort to end. But eventually she stepped out, dried herself with a large towel, and donned the white chiton and the dark blue peplos that Calypse had given her. Calypse showed her to the dining area and they sat on a fur rug to eat some bread and fruit. “The blue color makes you look divine,” Calypse smiled at her. “I have my own loom and I weaved the garment myself.” “I’ve never worn anything so fine,” Odyssea said. “Thank you.” “If you’d like, I can teach you how to weave,” Calypse offered. “Yeah, that would be nice,” Odyssea said. She was a bit at a loss, since she was shipwrecked on this island and didn’t know what would come next. After Odyssea had eaten her fill, she followed Calypse to the area where the loom was and he showed her how it worked. “I know nothing of weaving,” Odyssea tried out the loom. Calypse seemed amused at her lack of coordination on the loom. “I’ll give you another lesson tomorrow,” he said. “Now it’s time to sleep, so I’ll show you to your quarters.” The cavern had several rooms, some smaller and some larger. Calypse had set up a pallet for her in one of these smaller areas, hanging a blanket to cover the entrance, and there was a bowl of water and some pillows. He preferred to sleep in the main area, next to the hearth. As Odyssea settled down for the night, on the soft fur pallet, she reached to her neck for her eye pendant. Her hand came up empty and she gave a start. Dragging herself up, she walked quietly into the hall, then retraced her steps to the bath room. She peered into the pool, wondering if she’d dropped her pendant somewhere, but didn’t see anything glinting in the still water. She scoured every area of the bath room but found nothing. In fact, she couldn’t remember having her eye pendant with her when she’d awoken. Could it have gotten lost in the sea? Or had Calypse taken it? The following day, Odyssea met Calypse for breakfast in the dining area. She didn’t want to seem ungrateful. After all, he was doing so much for her, giving her of his food and shelter and friendship. And he was doing everything himself, she was sure. She hadn’t noticed any servants about. Calypse showed her the vine that grew along the entrance of the cavern, which had delicious grapes hanging from it. He plucked some grapes, dropping them in a bowl, and offered them to Odyssea. She ate a few but was quiet, trying to decide how to phrase her request. “I can’t seem to find my pendant,” Odyssea said. “Have you seen it?” Calypse’s smile vanished, and Odyssea realized he knew exactly what she was talking about. She continued to watch his face closely, noting the subtle changes in body language. “It’s an eye pendant and it’s very special to me,” Odyssea continued. Calypse said nothing but took a drink from his goblet. “I know you’ve seen it,” Odyssea said, being careful not to prematurely accuse him of theft. “Just tell me where it is.” “It’s a magical artifact,” Calypse swallowed and put down his goblet. “It shouldn’t be in human possession. Who better to guard it than a child of the gods?” Odyssea gaped at him. “So you took my pendant?” she asked. “Where have you put it?” She continued watching his eyes and head closely, in case his eyes shifted or head moved in the direction he had hidden it. But Calypse was crafty and revealed nothing. “I’ve placed it in a secure location,” Calypse said. “There’s no need to worry. I am your trusted friend.” “How can you call yourself my friend when you’ve taken my only treasure?” Odyssea’s voice took on an edge. “It wasn’t yours in the first place,” Calypse ate a grape. “It’s not yours either,” Odyssea replied. “Where is it?” She wanted to threaten him to give it to her, but her sword and bow had been washed away in the storm. “Look, I am at your command,” Calypse said. “Anything you ask of me I will do, except this one thing.” “Why do you want it so much?” Odyssea said sharply. “You took my only memory of home! Friend, you say? You’re nothing but an evildoer preying on a shipwrecked voyager!” “For all I know you could have stolen that pendant from a child of the gods!” Calypse shot back. “I didn’t steal it,” Odyssea said. “I found the pendant on one of my travels. The pendant gave me hope and saved my life.” “That’s a likely story,” Calypse said with sarcasm. “Do you even know the power of the pendant?” Odyssea thought for a moment. “I do know the power of the pendant. It gives one hope to keep going despite the obstacles one faces in life.” “There’s more to it than that,” Calypse said. “The pendant is filled with powerful magic.” “I know nothing about magic,” Odyssea frowned. 4.2 Weeks went by and Odyssea would wait until Calypse fell asleep and then probe through the cavern in search of the pendant. Each night she returned to her room empty-handed. She had to think like an immortal. Where would Calypse hide such a treasure? If she were immortal, she would probably hide it somewhere where mortals couldn’t reach it. It’s also possible that he had hidden it on his person. But she hadn’t noticed any necklace around his neck. It had to be somewhere difficult for a mortal to find. Or what if he were two steps ahead and thought to hide it somewhere so easy that no mortal would even think of looking? She thought long and hard. Where did Calypse spend most of his time? There was the main cavern with the large rug and hearth. Then there was the loom. Could he have hidden it somewhere in the loom? Surely that would disrupt the threads and cause the loom to not work. She could tell Calypse treasured his loom and she didn’t think he would risk hiding the pendant there. After dinner one day, Calypse worked on his loom and sang. While Odyssea could hear his voice, she went into the main area of the cave where the hearth was and searched near the fire. Nothing. Odyssea didn’t trust him at all and Calypse acted like everything was fine, flirting with her and giving her weaving lessons. Odyssea wondered what to do. She couldn’t fight him. He was a child of the gods, an immortal, and thus was stronger than her. What she needed was a weapon. “I was wondering if you had some weapons I could borrow,” Odyssea said. “I would like to practice my swordsmanship.” “You don’t need a sword here,” Calypse said. “There are no dangers.” “But I need to practice my combat skills so that I’ll be ready when I need it later, after I leave this island,” Odyssea said. “How are you going to leave?” Calypse mocked her. “Is a boat going to magically appear? Are you going to swim across the entire ocean?” Odyssea glared at him. A few days later, another idea struck her. “Calypse, I really appreciate all you do for me, cooking our food and all. I was wondering if I could return the favor today. I would be happy to prepare dinner.” “Okay,” Calypse said. “What did you have in mind?” “Well, I was thinking of making some fish and vegetables over the fire,” Odyssea said. Calypse showed her to the stream. “Do you have something I can use to catch the fish, like a spear?” Odyssea tried not to seem too eager. “I always just use my hands,” Calypse said. “Or a net. Here you go.” Disappointed at not receiving a spear, Odyssea took the net and caught some fish. Then she searched the kitchen for a knife. “I’m not handing you a knife,” Calypse said. “Do you think I’m a fool?” “How am I supposed to slice the vegetables?” Odyssea demanded. “Just cook them whole,” Calypse said before he walked out. That evening, for dinner, Odyssea served the food. Calypse sniffed it and took his first bite. “It’s pretty good,” he said, “but of course not as great as my cooking. Immortals are way better at cooking than mortals are.” “I’m tired of your arrogance,” Odyssea wanted to snap. She stopped herself and instead said, ”Fine, then you’ll cook from now on and I won’t do any cooking anymore.” They chewed in silence for a moment, and Calypse put down his fork. “Odyssea, I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but I am very fond of you,” he reached over and placed his hand over hers. Odyssea quickly pulled her hand away. Calypse continued talking, “I don’t mind cooking your favorite foods and weaving new clothes for you. I enjoy doing these things for you.” Though the words sounded generous, Odyssea thought his tone was condescending. She thought of a new idea. Perhaps she could retrieve her pendant while Calypse was in the bath. She waited until he headed to the bath room, then lingered right outside until she was sure he was in the pool. Odyssea swatted the curtain aside and barged into the bath room. “Hey! I didn’t know you were a snooper!” Calypse grinned. Odyssea blushed and turned away. “Where is it?” she asked sourly. “What are you looking for?” Calypse asked. “You know exactly what I’m looking for,” Odyssea retorted. She spotted a pile of clothes on a stool and began riffling through them. “Are you trying to steal my clothes?” Calypse seemed unconcerned. “Why, I didn’t think you were the prankster type.” Finding nothing, Odyssea dropped the clothes back on the stool. Calypse waded over, his head and shoulders above the water. “Why don’t you come in for a swim?” he grinned. Odyssea glanced at him, then her gaze drifted down to his neck, where a golden object sat. “You’re wearing it!” she lunged for the pendant without thinking. Calypse ducked into the water and Odyssea fell head-first into the pool. She came up and brushed the water from her eyes, then pulled herself out of the pool, wringing the water out of her hair. Her chiton was drenched and the water dripped onto the floor. “Are you leaving so soon? But we were just about to have fun!” Calypse laughed. He splashed some water in her direction, but it missed and made a puddle on the floor. Odyssea glared at him. She wasn’t about to battle with a naked guy in a pool. It was time for Plan B. She returned with a large fishing net and tossed it over Calypse. “What are you-“ Calypse tried to duck but the net tangled around him as he tried to squirm away. “Hey!” Calypse called out. “What if I drown?!” “You won’t drown, you’re immortal, remember?” Odyssea reached for the eye pendant. But Calypse sank below the surface, struggling within the net. “Oh no, now I have to save him,” Odyssea waded into the pool and seized Calypse’s shoulders, getting his head out of the water. She tried to grab the pendant from his neck, but the net was in the way. She realized it hadn’t been a very smart plan. Calypse coughed out some water. “Get me out of this!” he shrieked. “Give me the pendant!” Odyssea ordered. “How can I when I’m all tied up?” Calypse whined. “Promise you’ll give me the pendant if I free you,” Odyssea said. “You have my word,” Calypse replied. Odyssea used a fish hook to tear through the net, making a large enough hole for Calypse to slip through. Calypse wrapped a towel around his waist as he came out of the pool. “You ruined everything,” he said sourly. “We could have had fun, but you only care about that stupid pendant.” Odyssea cleared her throat and held out a hand for the pendant. Calypse sat on a stool, his hair dripping wet. “Can you leave now so I can dress in privacy?” “First things first,” Odyssea kept her hand out. “Do I need to trap you again? Like a common fish?” “Silly mortal,” Calypse smirked. “Did you really think I’d give you the pendant just like that?” Odyssea berated herself. She had neglected to get him to make the Unbreakable Promise. Feeling an urge to shove him back into the pool, she left before she could act on her violent thought. 4.3 “If I can’t find a weapon, then I’ll have to make one,” Odyssea decided. She noticed that Calypse had placed all the sharp utensils out of sight. Also, she’d seen a pouch at his waist, which he kept with him at all times, and she figured the pendant was in there. While Calypse was singing and weaving at his loom, Odyssea stole outside and found several vines, which gave her an idea. That night, when Calypse was asleep, Odyssea waited for her eyesight to adjust to the darkness and headed into the main room where Calypse slept, enveloped within the large fur quilt. The fire had been extinguished, leaving the hearth dark, and the only light came through the window from the moon outside. Odyssea slowly slid underneath the quilt, until she was lying next to Calypse, and hoped he wouldn’t wake. “Odyssea,” Calypse whispered. Odyssea froze. For a moment, she worried he had awoken, but she saw he was still asleep. She found his wrists and was about to tie them together with the vines, but Calypse wrapped his arms around her, hugging her like a pillow. No matter. Perhaps she couldn’t tie him, but she could steal the pouch at his waist. Odyssea reached around Calypse’s middle to untie the sash the pouch was secured to. But Calypse hugged her closer and she lost her grip. Maybe she could open the pouch and take the pendant. She slowly inched away from him, then searched for the pouch, but just then, Calypse rolled over so his back was to her, and the pouch ended up beneath his side. Odyssea grabbed the material of the pouch and tried to pull it from under him. Finally, she managed to undo the sash of the pouch and waited for Calypse to roll over again so she could free the pouch. She had to be quick or he might put his arms around her again. Odyssea listened to the quiet hum of Calypse’s breathing. Finally, he rolled back in her direction, the pouch now freed behind him. She circled an arm around him and snatched the pouch, then carefully stashed it into her chiton, trying not to make a sound. Before she could inch away from Calypse, he wrapped an arm around her waist and moved closer. “Odyssea?” his eyes opened and his grip loosened. “What are you doing here?” he whispered. “I…um…got cold and needed some warmth,” Odyssea stammered. “I hope you don’t mind.” “Not at all,” Calypse tugged the fur quilt more securely around them. “I’m glad you’re here. I’ll make a fire next time.” He smiled at her and closed his eyes. Odyssea waited until Calypse drifted off to sleep, then slowly got out from under the quilt. She grinned and fastened the eye pendant securely around her neck. “You stole my property,” Calypse said the next morning, his expression dark. “It belongs to me,” Odyssea reiterated. “And now it’s back in my possession where it will stay.” She knew he had probably come into her room to get the pendant, but Odyssea had hidden it and then secured it around her neck after she’d woken. Calypse glared at her and Odyssea glared right back. Calypse left and returned with a small treasure chest. He set it down in front of her on the fur rug. “I am willing to trade you for the eye pendant,” he said. “Choose any treasures you want from here, even the whole treasure chest if you wish.” Odyssea didn’t even glance at the shiny trinkets. “The pendant is the most precious item I own, and I don’t intend to trade it,” she said. “Give up this foolish plan of yours!” “This island belongs to me and that means everything on it is mine as well,” Calypse said. “You are my guest and are also trapped here on this island. You have nowhere to go. So you’re mine to care for, and that pendant is for me to protect.” “I don’t believe you want to guard my pendant,” Odyssea looked at him scornfully. “You just want the magical powers for yourself.” “Now nobody can take this away from me,” she continued. “I’m the guardian of this pendant, and if you so much as lay a hand on it again, you will regret it!” “Give me the pendant!” Calypse lunged for it, but Odyssea sprung out of the way and kicked him in the shin. Calypse buckled to the floor, and Odyssea snatched the nearest vase and held it like a weapon. “I am armed,” Odyssea said. “Promise me you will not steal my pendant or even think about stealing it!” Calypse stared up at her, eyeing the vase which she held above him, ready to knock him out with. He sighed. “I promise,” he said in a low voice. “Make the Unbreakable Promise,” Odyssea reiterated. Calypse stared at her while she waited expectantly. “I, Calypse, swear by the River Styx that I will not steal the pendant. I make the Unbreakable Promise to you, Odyssea of Ithaca.” Odyssea let out a relieved sigh and restored the vase to its mantel. She reached out a hand and helped Calypse to his feet. “I hope we can put this behind us and be friends from now on,” Odyssea said. “It’s difficult to be friends when you act so tyrannical.” Calypse eyed the necklace one last time and retreated, heading back to his loom. While he weaved, the cavern was quiet and without melody. 4.4 At dinner, Calypse said nothing, just ate the food in silence. He had given Odyssea a portion fit for a monarch, as always. When they finished their meal, Calypse stood up to leave. It had been an awkward dinner and he avoided making eye contact with her. “Calypse,” Odyssea patted a place next to her on the rug. “Won’t you sit with me awhile? I wish to hear your story.” Calypse sat down a few feet away from her. There was silence. “I thought you came to sleep next to me because you wanted my company. Because you had feelings for me,” Calypse said in an undertone. “I didn’t expect you to trick me.” “I’m sorry for hurting your feelings,” Odyssea said. “But you did steal my pendant, don’t deny it. I had to use any means necessary to retrieve it.” “I understand,” Calypse sighed. “But, may I ask, do you have any feelings for me?” Odyssea blushed scarlet and glanced down. “I admit I do,” she said. “I mean, it didn’t help that you had stolen my pendant, which made me dislike you. And you can be condescending at times, like when you called me ‘foolish.’” “Yes, I apologize for that,” Calypse said regretfully. “I act all high and mighty, trying to impress you, but I don’t think this flamboyant charisma works on someone like you.” “Most certainly not,” Odyssea looked up. “Now, pendant aside, I want to know if we can be on cordial terms again.” “Well,” a slow grin spread onto Calypse’s face. “Cordial also means ‘invigorating to the heart.’ Do you mean that you want to be more than friends?” He shuffled closer to her, but Odyssea put out a hand to stop him. “My wish and my duty don’t always align,” Odyssea said. “Therefore, we can’t be more than friends. Also, I sense there’s something you’re keeping from me. I hope you can open up to me. I do care about you,” She blushed again. “I’ll tell you the reason why I wanted that pendant,” he said. “My younger sister Polyphema was placed under a curse many years ago. I haven’t seen her since and was hoping to find her and free her from her misfortune. She’s on the island of the cyclops, being held captive. I was sure the pendant could help me.” Odyssea fingered the pendant in her hands, wondering what powers it held. “If you had told me you needed the pendant to save your sister, we could have avoided that whole confrontation. I’d be happy to assist you in rescuing your sister. But if you know where she is, why haven’t you gone to save her?” “Because Hermisia is punishing me,” Calypse said. “I flirted with her and then I flirted with many others, and this made her angry. So she spoke to Zea and she’s decreed that I’m not allowed on the island of the cyclops. I’ve tried sending others to save her, but no one is willing to risk the wrath of Zea.” “How long ago was this?” Odyssea asked, feeling uneasy. “It was a century ago,” Calypse said. “She was whisked away in the middle of the night and I haven’t seen her or heard from her since.” He wiped a tear from his eye. “Thank you for telling me about your sister,” Odyssea said gently. “I imagine Hermisia wouldn’t hold a grudge for that long. Surely it would be okay if I went and rescued your sister. When I resume my voyage, I will see about going to the cyclops’ island.” “I am honored to meet such a generous soul,” Calypse kissed the back of her hand. Odyssea blushed. “Can I ask you something?” she asked. Calypse looked up. “Why do you live all alone on this island? You’re a child of the Gods. Can’t you just go to places and find someone to marry?” Calypse paused. “To tell you the truth, I have many enemies,” he said. “From the gods. And I don’t want to see them or talk to them. I’ve broken many hearts over the centuries, and so they made my life horrible, and then I inherited this island and came here to live. I’ve recently learned that they’re upset with me because…well…I fell in love with a mortal.” Odyssea was certain he was talking about her. “Why do they care who you fall in love with?” she asked. “Don’t gods fall in love with mortals all the time?” “Exactly,” Calypse said. “The higher gods can do what they want, but us lower gods have restrictions placed on us. I’m willing to break the rules, and that’s why I’m here on this island. I’ve turned it into my personal paradise and I was waiting for someone like you to come along.” Odyssea tried to hide the blush creeping across her face. She turned her thoughts back to the pendant. “I’m going to find your sister,” Odyssea declared. “Perhaps the eye pendant will lead me to her.” “Thank you,” Calypse embraced her. But Odyssea still didn’t know how she was going to get off the island. It seemed a hopeless wish, but she reminded herself that all was not lost. 4.5 “I can tell you’re wondering what all the extravagance is for,” Calypse grinned. He had prepared an extravagant feast that day. “Today marks seven months since your arrival and I have a special offer for you.” Odyssea was startled, not having realized that seven months had passed. She felt the renewed pressure to leave the island and continue her quest. “I have come to cherish you dearly,” Calypse gazed into her eyes. “I offer you all my love and soul. Will you marry me?” Odyssea’s eyes widened. “It wasn’t my intention to stay here forever,” she said carefully. “I am fond of you, but I have responsibilities back on Ithaca. I’m not ready to lose hope yet. I need to leave this island and finish my quest.” “But I offer more than just a mere lifetime together,” Calypse said. He took Odyssea’s hands and continued to gaze into her eyes. “I offer you a love that will last forever. I will make you immortal. You will be forever young and we will enjoy each other’s company for all eternity. We will not grow old together, but will stay young together and have the kind of love that most people only dream about. I offer you immortality, freedom from death. While everyone else will die, we shall live. For all time and without end.” He picked up a goblet of violet liquid and set it before her on the table. Odyssea eyed the goblet suspiciously. “One sip of this will render you immortal,” he said. “I offer you ambrosia, a future of immortality. All you have to do is drink it and your every wish will come true. Then we can be in each other’s company for forever.” Odyssea stared curiously at the goblet. She reached out for it but at the last second pulled her hand back. She let out a deep breath. “I fail to understand,” Odyssea said. “You are immortal and yet you are interested in a mortal like me? Why is that?” “Because I’ve fallen in love with you,” Calypse said. “And I hate the thought of you dying. Though your life has a deadline, I know what you can become. Immortal. And then our lifespans will align.” Odyssea thought for a moment. “There is one thing that I cannot accept.” “What is it?” Calypse said. “I cannot marry someone who is immortal, neither do I want to be immortal. I’m afraid I cannot reciprocate. I am an adventurer at heart and I deeply miss my family and friends. Staying here would be like dying a thousand deaths. I still wish to leave the island and I’m distressed because I don’t know how.” Calypse paused. “I know I should be deeply offended that you have rejected my offer of endless love, but I understand where you’re coming from. You’ve led a life of obstacles and perhaps feel you have not yet earned the state of paradise.” “I appreciate everything you do for me, but I admit I feel suffocated with this paradisiacal life which I’m not ready for. I need to return to my family and kingdom and complete my quest.” She stood up to leave. “If you change your mind, come back to me,” Calypse stood up as well. “My heart is open and willing.” He wrapped his arms around her and they shared a kiss. Odyssea almost relented to his offer just then, but remembered that this wasn’t her destiny. She had an important mission to fulfill for her kingdom. “I wasn’t completely truthful about the pendant,” Odyssea told Calypse a few days later. “I received it from a prophetess. She foretold my future, telling me I would save my kingdom from future enemies if I put my all into it. A future enemy is coming to my kingdom and my job is to meet with the children of the Gods and become allies. The prophetess foretold that doing this would save my kingdom. She presented me with this pendant. She said, ‘The eye pendant will help you arrive where you want to go and become what you want to be.’ That’s why this is my most prized possession. It represents my potential and future destiny. And the safety and welfare of my kingdom.” “I wish your destiny was with me,” Calypse said sadly. “Calypse,” Odyssea addressed him the next day. “I can’t stay here any longer. I am leaving and I need your help.” “I don’t want you to leave,” Calypse said, his face solemn. “But I must. I can’t be happy here,” Odyssea said. “Okay, I’ll assist you,” Calypse said. “Hermisia visited me last night and said I had to help you get back on your travels. She brought a message from Atheno.” Odyssea smiled at the thought that her guardian was looking out for her. “I need tools. Show me what you have,” Odyssea said. Calypse led her to his storehouse, where he kept all kinds of building tools. He didn’t have everything she needed, but she was able to use other supplies to fashion the tools herself. “You should have been a goddess,” Calypse lamented. “Why are you human? Then we could have been together. No quests. No needing to save your kingdom. And no bossy Atheno telling me what to do.” He glared up at the sky as he said this, probably hoping Atheno would get the message. Odyssea chuckled at his words. “If I’d been a goddess, I doubt you would find me as charming. It’s often the temporary things that matter the most to us, because we know they’ll be gone as fast as one can blink.” Calypse offered her the use of his grove of trees. Odyssea chopped down several trees, while Calypse refused to assist, still hoping she would change her mind and stay with him. Odyssea cut the wood and began to fashion a raft. When Calypse realized that she was serious about leaving, he weaved some linen sails on his loom and presented them to her. Odyssea thanked him, attached the sails to her raft, and accepted Calypse’s offer of food and supplies. “Thank you, Calypse,” Odyssea smiled her first real smile in a long time. “I’m sure we will meet again once my quest is over. If you still feel the same way…later on…” Odyssea trailed off and shyly glanced at him. “Farewell, Odyssea,” Calypse said. “I doubt my feelings for you will change. I’m immortal and immortality means permanence, remember that.” He dipped his head and they shared a last kiss. As Odyssea set sail, she watched Calypse on the shore waving to her, and she found she couldn’t stop the tears spilling down her face. “If my destiny allows,” she whispered to the wind. “I hope to meet Calypse again one day and share in that fervent love he talked about.” Odyssea visits the Underworld and meets Hadessa, queen of the Underworld. Image by LEEROY Agency from Pixabay 3.1
Odyssea and Circes reached the land of the Cimmerians, which was a place that was always in darkness. They managed to find the portal to the Underworld, which Circes had overheard Hermisia talking about one time. The entrance to the Underworld was through a cave which could only be accessed by the river Oceania. “Do you have any clue where the other eye pendant might be?” Odyssea asked. “We’ll have to ask around,” Circes said. “It could be anywhere. Surely someone has seen it.” The river soon turned black and became the River Styx. The ferrygirl turned her fierce eyes on them. She wore a long black cloak and hood, reminding Odyssea of some ghost from the depths of a swamp. She shivered but reminded herself to be brave. “What are you doing here, Circes?” the ferrygirl demanded, holding her staff like she wanted nothing more than to smash it against his face. “And you, Mortal,” she turned on Odyssea. “You’re not even dead yet. You smell like you’re still alive.” “Why, hello to you too, Charona,” Circes managed a stiff smile. “Still angry about the time I stood you up?” “I’ll never forget it,” Charona hissed. “But anyway, what’s an undead mortal and an exiled immortal doing here in Hadessa’s domain?” “May we come aboard your ferry to the land of the dead?” Odyssea asked. “We need to find a lost pendant so we can get Circes out of exile.” Charona laughed mockingly. “You want to get that thief out of exile? He’s a power hungry maniac! And, wait a second, what’s that?” she spotted the pendant around Odyssea’s neck. “I’m looking for one similar to this,” Circes said. “Have you seen it?” “I don’t recall,” Charona narrowed her eyes and thought. “All right, then, come onto the ferry.” As Circes took a step onto the ferry, Charona swung her staff against his calves, causing him to fall backward into the river with a splash. “No!” Odyssea shouted. The current took Circes away as he flailed his arms, trying to grab something to hold onto, but he was out of reach of the ferry. Odyssea leaped onto the ferry, shoved Charona aside and grabbed the staff. Charona fell into the raft and stared after them sullenly. Odyssea guided the raft to where Circes was and helped him back on board. Circes shook the water from his hair. “I guess I deserved it,” he said. “Charona holds grudges and I played a prank on her a few centuries back.” “I’m so glad I’m not immortal,” Odyssea muttered. She led the ferry to the shore and they alighted on land. The place was dark and cavernous, and they could see a palace in the distance, shining with gold and midnight hues. It was surrounded by a tall skeletal-looking gate, and a large dog with three heads was standing sentry. “Is that gate made out of bones?” Odyssea pulled her cloak closer to her as if to ward off the fear that swelled in her. “I think so,” Circes said. “But what we really have to worry about is that hound, Cerberus.” “I didn’t expect the dog to be so… gigantic,” Odyssea trembled. “Hey guys, what are you doing here?” a voice called out and a young woman came forward from behind the dog. She was holding a black puppy. “Tyresia?” Odyssea asked. Tyresia handed her the puppy. “Here, hold the puppy. If you get her scent on you, you’ll be able to get past her parent, the great Cerberus.” Odyssea took the puppy in her arms and it licked her face. “Tyresia, what are you doing here? Are you dead?” Odyssea asked. “No, actually, I’m just passing through. I had some messages to deliver to various people.” Odyssea passed the puppy to Circes. “Is there a place where we can talk?” she asked, her voice trembling. “I’m staying in a little hut with the ferrygirl, Charona,” Tyresia said. “We’ll talk there. You can rest a bit before meeting Queen Hadessa.” “I have to meet Hadessa?” Odyssea shivered again. She wasn’t too keen about meeting someone associated with dead souls. “The person you really need to worry about is Persephonus,” Tyresia said. “If you cross him, he’ll cut off your head.” Odyssea gulped. “This way,” Tyresia said. “Follow me.” They walked for several minutes along the river, seeing Charona’s hut in the distance. Odyssea had a pounding headache and rubbed at her temples, shutting her eyes for a moment. “Are you all right?” Circes put an arm around her. “Maybe I have some herbs that can help you. Tell me your symptoms.” “My head hurts but I’ll be okay,” she said. “I just need some rest.” Circes rummaged through his bag, managed to find herbs that hadn’t been damaged from the river, and handed her a flower. “Smell this flower and your headache will go away,” he said, placing it in her hand. Odyssea did so and her headache began to recede. “Thanks,” she said, and the three resumed their walk and arrived at Charona’s hut. 3.2 “I really don’t want to be here,” Circes placed the puppy on the floor. The dog scampered away. “What if she comes back and tries to hit me again?” They were standing in Charona’s main room, which had a hearth and fur rugs on the floor. It looked very cozy and comfy. “Use this,” Odyssea handed him her sword, then followed Tyresia up the stairs and into a small bedroom. The room had a fur quilt and various pillows. They sat down and Odyssea put her head in her hands. “I don’t even know where to start,” she said tearfully. “First, I receive this quest to find allies so that my kingdom doesn’t get killed by a future enemy. Then I was separated from my crew and now it’s just me and Circes by ourselves. And, on top of all that, I’m on another quest to find the second eye pendant so that Circes can return it to Poseidona and be released from his exile. This is too much and I don’t know if I can do this anymore.” Tyresia placed a hand on her shoulder. “I know it’s a lot,” she said solemnly. “But trust me when I say that this side quest will actually lead you to your main quest. They are connected.” “Really?” Odyssea looked up and wiped a tear from her eye. Her shoulders shook a bit and she tried to stop the tears. “Don’t rein it in. Just let it out,” Tyresia said slowly. “I promise there is no judgment.” “I’m just so sick of crying and being sad and scared and uncertain all the time,” Odyssea sighed. “I just want to know something for sure. I want to be certain. I don’t want to fear the future. To fear what might happen to my kingdom if I don’t succeed. Everyone’s counting on me and I don’t want to let them down. If it all hinges on me, then I feel like I’m getting run over by a giant chariot!” She burst into tears and her shoulders shook. Tyresia wrapped her arms around her and patted her back gently. After a few minutes, Odyssea’s tears subsided and Tyresia moved back and brushed the hair from Odyssea’s face. “You’ll feel better soon. I know it seems overwhelming now,” Tyresia said gently. “But it will all be worth it in the end. These adventures will create in you the person you’re meant to be.” “What if I just want a simple life?” Odyssea whispered. This was a secret she hadn’t dared tell anyone before. “Odyssea, you weren’t meant for a simple life,” Tyresia said. “You are brave and you are way stronger than you feel right now. You will see it in time, trust me.” “I believe you,” Odyssea wiped another tear. “I just don’t feel the glory one would feel after these trials end. I feel like there’s a huge burden over me that I’m trying to carry before it crushes me.” “Like Sisyphus and the rock,” Tyresia said. “I know the feeling. Let me tell you my prediction, Odyssea. You will live a long life and will marry someone you weren’t expecting to. You will be happy with him. Your father will choose someone for you, and you will love him.” “Why doesn’t he just tell me who it is?” Odyssea said. “Why keep it a secret?” “I’m afraid I’m to blame for that,” Tyresia said. “I told him not to tell you, for fear that it would be a distraction. But everything will work out in the end. It has to be this way so that you will find the person you’re meant to love.” “Okay, I trust you,” Odyssea took a deep breath. “How do you feel?” Tyresia asked. Odyssea sighed. “I feel a bit better, like at least one burden has been lifted from my shoulders.” “That’s good,” Tyresia said. “And how is the eye pendant working out for you?” “Well, I don’t really know what kinds of powers it has or how it’s supposed to help me get to where I want to be. But it did give me hope when I was stranded with Circes on his island. I was a jumbled mess and was about to marry him to seal my fate. Then I found the tapestry and learned about the other eye pendant and hope sprung up in me again.” “You got through it and you are stronger because of it,” Tyresia said. “When things seem too bad and overwhelming, remember that it’s all temporary. It won’t last forever. A new path will appear and things will work out.” “But that’s hard to know. To know when things will work out,” Odyssea said. “When I was on Circes’ island, things looked so bleak and I couldn’t see the end, because the future is uncertain. And because I live in the present. I even talked to Atheno at one point but then he abandoned me.” “You have to accept the uncertainties,” Tyresia said. “This is how you’ll survive. This is how you’ll get through the dangers and the obstacles that you’ll face. Tell me now, how did things go at the start of your journey?” “Well, it was very embarrassing,” Odyssea’s face reddened in shame. “We landed on the island of the Lotus Tree, and I happened to eat the lotus and ended up being a liability to my friends. I hung out with one of the lotus eaters and the next day my crew members found me having breakfast with him and his family and talking about marriage.” Tyresia laughed. “It was so awkward!” Odyssea laughed too. “My crew had to tie me up and force me back to the ship. I guess it’s a funny story to tell my future children.” “You’re right. That is a great story,” Tyresia grinned. “But one thing that bothers me, though,” Odyssea said. “I made such a huge mistake then and what if I make another mistake again, a mistake that can’t be rectified so easily. What if I make an error so significant that it causes the entire downfall of Ithaca?” “Don’t let your fears take over,” Tyresia said. “This kind of thinking will eat at you until you believe it. Instead, visualize completing your quest and defeating the future enemy. Imagine your kingdom in prosperity.” “But I still worry,” Odyssea said. “I want to be prepared for what may come.” “That’s good,” Tyresia said. “But let me tell you a little secret. How does a person become a good warrior? They’re not born a good warrior. Everyone starts off as a bad warrior and works hard at it until she becomes a good warrior. Keep that in mind.” Odyssea took Tyresia’s hands in a gesture of friendship. “I’m glad we ran into you here. If you hadn’t been here, I might have given up.” “That’s why I was here,” Tyresia smiled. “I knew you’d be here and that you needed to talk to someone. And so I ventured down here so I could help guide you.” Odyssea embraced her again. They heard shouting downstairs and the whining of a puppy. “Let’s go before someone gets killed,” Odyssea grinned. 3.3 Charona had returned after her shift was over and she had a thing or two to say to the newcomers. “You stole my boat!” she yelled at Odyssea. “Do you know how many people fit into your tiny raft? I had to keep rowing it back and forth forever just to get people across!” “You knocked my friend in the river and I needed a way to save him,” Odyssea countered. “Look what this idiot has done!” Charona bellowed. “He’s wearing my favorite chiton! It’s mine!” “What did you expect me to do?” Circes said. “You shoved me into the river and my chiton got drenched. So I found something dry to wear.” “Give me that!” Charona grabbed the hem of his chiton. “Don’t you dare!” Circes shouted, and lifted the sword he held. The puppy scurried away into another room. “Everyone, calm down!” Tyresia got in between them. “Charona, I’m sorry, I should explain. I’m here on business, as I’ve told you, and these were the people I was waiting for. Is it all right if we stay overnight and then leave tomorrow?” “These people are thieves and liars!” Charona shouted. “I don’t want them in my home!” “Charona, please do me this favor,” Tyresia pleaded. Charona folded her arms and turned away. “All right,” she finally said. “As long as they behave. And do the dishes and such to repay me for my kindness. You can start by cleaning up after the dog.” The puppy finally came out, whimpering, and Charona gave it some food. So much for resting, Odyssea guessed. But she shrugged and agreed to the terms. Circes cooked and Odyssea scrubbed the dishes, the puppy begging for food by their ankles. “It’s like having my own personal servants,” Charona was grinning now. “And the food is very tasty, Circes.” “Don’t get too used to it,” Tyresia laughed. “I’m pleased you enjoyed the food,” Circes gave a small smile, wondering if Charona’s anger was cooling. That night, they slept in the main area on pallets, while Charona and Tyresia slept in Charona’s chambers. “So, are you going to tell me?” Odyssea said as she lay on her pallet. Circes was in his pallet a few feet away. “Tell you what?” he said sleepily. He’d been about to drift off to sleep. “Tell me what happened between you and Charona,” Odyssea said. Circes sighed. “It was a prank. Hermisia had set us up on a date, and instead of showing up, I hid myself. She started crying right then and there, and I was going to surprise her by jumping out from my hiding place, but then felt embarrassed for making her weep. And so I stayed hidden.” “Do you like her?” Odyssea asked. “It was a long time ago, but yes, now that I’ve seen her again, my feelings have rekindled. But she did knock me into the river. That girl holds grudges like you’ve never seen.” “She’s very passionate,” Odyssea agreed. “I think she’d be a strong ally, though, once we become friends.” “I suppose,” Circes said. “I still have bruises from her staff.” “Yeah, but you don’t hold grudges,” Odyssea observed. “That’s right, if Charona gets that anger towards me out of her system, then I’d be happier to be around her.” The next morning, Odyssea made breakfast and Circes scrubbed the dishes. “Charona,” Circes said, before they left. “I wanted to express how sorry I am that I stood you up on that day and made you cry.” “Who told you I cried afterwards?” Charona asked suspiciously. “I was there, just hiding,” Circes said. “I was going to come out but I felt horrible after standing you up and hurting your feelings.” “And now?” Charona stood close to him, while Circes continued washing dishes. “I would like to try again, if you’re interested,” Circes said. “I think you’re amazing, and if I can get out of my exile, then maybe I can visit you.” When Odyssea walked into the kitchen, she witnessed Circes and Charona kissing each other. Odyssea smiled and silently retreated from the room. Tyresia led Odyssea and Circes to the gates of Hadessa’s palace. They had brought the puppy with them, and Cerberus took one sniff at them and stepped aside so they could enter the gates. “See, told you the puppy would work,” Tyresia winked. The palace was the color of the night with glittering lights and stars everywhere. Odyssea and her companions followed the main path and arrived at the main doors. An impossibly tall guard wearing a black hooded cape beckoned them inside. Odyssea hesitated, trying to quiet the tremor in her hands. Tyresia turned to glance at her in concern. Odyssea took a deep breath and walked forward. After they were let into the main hall, Hadessa and Persephonus came over to greet them. Hadessa was a young woman with hair the color of the night, and eyes so dark they could see right through your soul. She wore a midnight blue peplos and wore snake ornaments around her arms and neck. Persephonus, on the other hand, had bright yellow hair and light green eyes. He wore a light green chiton and silver cloak. “Welcome to our palace!” Hadessa said, all her teeth showing. Odyssea gulped and tried not to seem afraid. She soon found out that Hadessa knew all their names. “Circes, nice to see you again,” Hadessa grinned. “And you too Tyresia. And you…” She approached Odyssea and took her hands. “I am delighted to meet you, Odyssea, Princess of Ithaca. I hope you will like it here.” Odyssea nodded. “Thank you, Queen Hadessa,” she tried to stop the shake in her voice. She nodded to Persephonus, who just stood there with his arms folded and a bored look on his face. “I am searching for an eye pendant that looks like this,” Odyssea showed them hers. “We want to find it and return it to Poseidona.” Now that she’d framed her request, she let out a long breath to calm her pounding heart. “Ha! Poseidona! She’s too scared to come here herself, I see. Sends a mortal, an exiled child of the gods, and a seer to do the dirty work for her,” Hadessa laughed. “Well, it was kind of my fault,” Circes admitted. “I had stolen it from her. If I retrieve it and return it, my exile will end.” “So you basically just want to get out of the consequences for your actions,” Persephonus spoke as if bored. “I want to make things right,” Circes said. “So that you can leave your exile and not be alone anymore,” Persephonus said. “Basically you’re just doing this for yourself. How very valiant of you,” his voice dripped sarcasm. “Isn’t that what we’re all trying to do?” Odyssea spoke up. “Trying to progress? To better our lives? Yes, it sounds selfish when you put it that way. But Circes has good intentions and his helping himself will allow himself to benefit others by his skills with herbs and healing. Selfishness is only when we neglect others.” Persephonus gave her a death glare and Odyssea wondered if she’d gone too far. Hadn’t Tyresia told her to watch out for Persephonus especially? Odyssea hoped she hadn’t made a grave mistake by speaking up. “We hope you’ll stay with us for a few days,” Hadessa grinned. “We’ve prepared your rooms and we’d like to invite you to have dinner with us this evening.” “We’d be delighted,” Odyssea smiled. “But before we do that, if I may, I’d like to have a private chat with you, Hadessa.” Inwardly, she hated the thought of being anywhere alone with Hadessa. “Of course, my dear,” Hadessa said, even though they looked like they were around the same age. “Come to my suite and we will talk.” “I’m coming too,” Persephonus said stiffly. “Anything you can say to Hadessa, you can say to me.” “My dear, won’t you let Odyssea and I speak privately for a few moments?” Hadessa said sweetly. Her voice reminded Odyssea of a serpent slithering on the ground. “I don’t trust her,” Persephonus hissed in his wife’s ear, but stayed back. “I’m sorry about my spouse,” Hadessa said as they entered the suite. “He sulks when he’s away from the surface. I guess I’m to blame, since I kidnapped him and forced him to marry me. Now, please tell me what’s on your mind.” “Well, you didn’t answer me about the eye pendant. I was hoping you had seen it and could point me in the right direction,” Odyssea said. “You get right to the point,” Hadessa grinned. “But I don’t believe I know anything of it. You may want to ask Persephonus, he keeps track of the jewelry in the palace.” 3.4 Odyssea and Circes asked for an audience with Persephonus. “After dinner tonight,” he told them sourly. “I’m very hungry and can’t help you on an empty stomach.” Odyssea and Circes exchanged glances and prepared themselves for dinner. Hadessa had servants send in new chitons, cloaks, and peploses for the guests to wear. “I gotta say, Hadessa has flamboyant tastes,” Tyresia said, staring at the boldly colored clothing. There was violet, bright blue, and indigo with starry patterns on them. Dinner was tasty and the three companions made sure not to eat any pomegranates. After dinner, Persephonus finally granted them an audience in his chambers. “Hadessa suggested I ask you about the pendant,” Odyssea said. Persephonus leaned back in his chair and stared at the wall. He sighed. “I believe I might have seen it somewhere. There is so much jewelry in the palace that we have an entire jewelry room dedicated to it. Come with me and we can look around.” Odyssea noted that Persephonus hadn’t answered the question directly. They arrived at the jewelry room and entered what looked like an enormous museum, with display cabinets and glass display cases everywhere. “Wow,” Odyssea looked around in awe. “It will take us forever to look through all these,” Circes said. “It’s arranged by type,” Persephonus said. “The pendants are all on that wall.” Odyssea and Circes spent a good part of the day searching through the pendants but didn’t find the eye pendant of Poseidona. They met Tyresia in the guest quarters and slept in their pallets for the night. “Maybe we’ve missed something,” Odyssea said the next morning. “I mean, the pendant has to be around here somewhere. I think Persephonus knows where it is but doesn’t want to tell us.” “Why don’t we ask the judges?” Circes asked. “They might have seen something.” Odyssea and Circes headed to the judges’ table. Mina was sitting at the center, and she looked up as they approached. “You’re not even dead,” she said to Odyssea. “And you can’t even die,” she said to Circes. “We’re not here for our judgment,” Circes said. “We’re searching for a pendant in the shape of an eye. It belongs to Poseidona, and we’re going to return it to her. Have you by chance seen it?” Mina regarded them. “Yes, now that I think about it, I have seen something similar,” she said. “I believe Persephonus has one just like it.” The next evening Hadessa invited them to a feast. There would be food and dancing. Odyssea, Circes, and Tyresia felt a little out of place when they arrived, since everyone was dressed in stolas and togas, more formal than the companions were used to. As soon as they arrived, some servants ushered them into another room, where they presented them with a selection of formal attire. “Hadessa insisted we give you several choices of clothing to choose for the party,” the servant woman said. “Circes, please go with Damon.” A servant man arrived and beckoned Circes to follow him to another room. The woman introduced herself as Zoe and pretty soon she had the young women dressed spectacularly for the party. Odyssea wore a dark blue stola which reminded her of the waves of the sea. She remembered her days of depression on Circes’ island, how she’d often stare out into the waves and feel nostalgia. The gown shimmered like sunlight shining on the water. Tyresia wore a glittering scarlet stola. “For the underworld, this is way too bright!” she commented. Circes soon joined them, wearing a sparkling toga, white like snow with yellow diamonds at the hems. The three companions glanced at one another and chuckled to themselves. Zoe led them back to the main hall and they joined the party. Tyresia reminded them to stay away from pomegranates. And Odyssea stayed away from any food that even slightly resembled a lotus fruit, inwardly cringing when she thought back to that time. Circes seemed to just stuff his face with whatever goodies he found. Odyssea remembered that immortals didn’t need to eat, so for them it was just for enjoyment. Odyssea realized the crowd had quieted and the lights had dimmed, as Hadessa and Persephonus walked to the dance area, hand in hand. Actually, it seemed more like Hadessa was dragging Persephonus to the dance floor. He looked as if he’d eaten something sour. Something glinted at his neck and Odyssea did a double take. It was the pendant! She wondered why Persephonus had lied to her and her companions. Odyssea needed to talk to him and this was as good a time as any, so she made her way forward. Hadessa was having trouble getting Persephonus to dance with her. The entire dance looked stilted and awkward. The people around them had started dancing as well. Odyssea noticed that Charona had arrived and she and Circes were dancing in the corner. Suddenly someone grabbed her arm and Odyssea was whirled around. Once the world stopped spinning and she regained her balance, she found herself being dipped by Hadessa. Odyssea’s heart hammered from fear and Hadessa pulled her back to an upright position. “Will you dance with me?” Hadessa asked with a grin, the whites of her teeth reminding Odyssea of the gate of bones that surrounded the palace. “I thought I already was,” Odyssea said, trying not to show her annoyance…and fear. “Please, no more fast spins,” she said. “All right,” Hadessa agreed. She took hold of Odyssea’s hand and placed the other around her waist. Odyssea didn’t know much about dancing, so she followed Hadessa’s lead. The whole dancing thing felt clumsy to her. “You’re way more fun than Persephonus,” Hadessa smiled. “I don’t suppose you’d want to trade places with him?” Odyssea stared, trying to figure out if Hadessa was joking or not. Would Hadessa really just trade someone as important as a spouse? As if the person were a mere possession? “I was joking, of course,” Hadessa laughed. She spun Odyssea in a slow circle and then pulled her close so suddenly that the breath was knocked from Odyssea’s lungs. “Sorry, I forget how fragile humans are,” Hadessa said. She’s playing with me, Odyssea thought, feeling unnerved. They kept dancing, Odyssea looking out for other couples so they didn’t bump into one another. “Talk to me,” Hadessa said. “I want to hear all about you.” Odyssea tried not to flinch at Hadessa’s bony hands and tight grip. She plucked Hadessa’s hand off her waist and slowly pushed her away, making it look like a dance move. Odyssea didn’t appreciate Hadessa’s advances, nor her immortal strength. Hadessa tugged her arm and reeled her in, circling an arm along her back. Odyssea ducked below the arm and stepped out of the hold. “Don’t fear her,” she heard a whisper in her ear, but she didn’t know where it had come from. She thought she heard the flap of wings and wondered if Atheno had sent his owl to warn her. Odyssea took a deep breath and met Hadessa’s eye, then marched forward with resolve. She placed both hands on Hadessa’s waist and began to spin her, faster and faster. Hadessa laughed as she spiraled. Finally, as the song was ending, Odyssea brought Hadessa to an abrupt stop and dipped her mercilessly, so that Hadessa’s head almost touched the floor. She stood her upright again and Hadessa swayed a bit in her arms. Odyssea grabbed her hand and pulled her to the balcony. “Wow, that was amazing,” Hadessa was laughing. “I’ve never had so much fun!” But Odyssea wasn’t laughing. “I really like you,” Hadessa inched closer. “No, I’m engaged,” Odyssea said. “My father has arranged it.” “Oh, how dreadful,” Hadessa said. “But since you entertained me tonight, I would like to give you a gift. What do you desire? I have a few ideas if you’re interested.” She gave a sly smile. Odyssea thought for a moment. “I wish to borrow your helm of invisibility,” she said. “For one hour.” Hadessa’s eyes widened and she stared at her in shock. “May I at least kiss you?” she asked. “Then I’ll let you borrow my helmet.” Odyssea started to turn away, but Hadessa took her hand gently. “Please,” she said. “Just one kiss.” “All right,” Odyssea sighed. The thought of getting so close to Hadessa would normally have made her shiver with fear. But she recalled the voice in her ear, telling her not to fear, and her resolve returned. Hadessa embraced her and gave her a soft kiss, not wanting to let go, but Odyssea gently pushed her away at arm’s length. “Thank you,” Hadessa sighed. When Odyssea and her companions left the party, Odyssea had the helmet tucked under her arm. 3.5 After changing out of the sparkly clothes, Odyssea put on the helmet of invisibility and stole into Persephonus’ room. She had climbed up the balcony, as silently as possible, and then gone right in. Thank goodness the windows had been open! Persephonus had retired to his chambers and his servant Damon was putting away his jewelry. He placed it in a wooden box on the vanity. “Can you believe how shameful Hadessa was?” Persephonus said sourly. “Dancing with that mortal like they were lovers. Everyone will be talking about it now. I just want to get out of here and see my father again. Hadessa can’t keep me here.” Persephonus lounged on the bed and sighed. “And then Odyssea and Circes want that pendant,” Persephonus said. “That’s the only thing keeping Hadessa in check.” Odyssea listened closely. After the servant left, Persephonus extinguished the lamp and got in bed. Odyssea waited until she could hear soft snores, then she stole over to the vanity and opened the box. She picked up the eye pendant and as soon as she touched it, a flash of light lit up the whole room. “What the?” Persephonus was instantly awake and gasped. He looked right at Odyssea. “What are you doing with Hadessa’s helmet?” he asked. He grabbed Odyssea by the neck and she dropped the pendant. As it fell near her own pendant, a bond was made, and a field of energy appeared in the room. Persephonus dropped his hands from Odyssea’s neck. Odyssea made choking sounds as she got her breath back. “I forgot you also have a pendant,” Persephonus said. “Please,” Odyssea said. “That pendant belongs to Poseidona. She needs it back.” “But this is the only way I can see through the helmet of invisibility,” Persephonus said. “I don’t want Hadessa using it to spy on me.” “What if we can convince Hadessa to send you back to the surface?” Odyssea asked. “Then will you give us the pendant?” “Why would I want to go to the surface?” Persephonus said sullenly. “Down here I live in a palace and am King of the Underworld.” “True,” Odyssea said. “But you were kidnapped by Hadessa and she gave you a pomegranate, which forces you to come to the Underworld for a time every year. What if we can get you up on the surface sooner so you can see your father?” There was a gleam in Persephonus’ eyes. “Yes, I think I should like that,” he said. “And how are you going to convince Hadessa to let me go?” “I will talk to her and get back to you,” Odyssea promised. “Okay, but if you ever break into my room again, I will send Cerberus after you!” Persephonus threatened. “And after you’re just a pile of bones, I’ll throw you into Tartarus myself!” When they found Hadessa, the young woman was busy brushing her dog Cerberus and playing with the puppies. They explained the whole situation to her. Hadessa turned to look at them and grinned. “If I let him go earlier, what will I get in return?” she asked. “I am lonely down here without Persephonus. That’s why I kidnapped him in the first place.” “What do you wish for?” Circes asked. “Well,” Hadessa thought about it. “I want Persephonus to be with me, always.” “But when you two are together, he misses his father and you don’t even spend any time together, really,” Odyssea pointed out. “Are you saying Persephonus wants to be rid of me?” Hadessa asked in a dangerous voice. “Not at all,” Odyssea said. “Just that he misses his father. If he sees his father, he won’t miss him anymore, and will then want to return to live with you.” “I see,” Hadessa rubbed her chin. “Perhaps if his father is with him all the time, Persephonus will get tired of him.” She thought for a moment and then smiled. “All right then,” she said. “I will send Persephonus to the surface, and he can stay with his father for as long as he wants. Sooner or later, he will miss me and will want to come back down here. It’s a deal!” Once they had the pendant in their hands, they met up with Tyresia once more and walked together to the portal. “I will part ways with you now,” Tyresia said. “I still have some business to attend to.” She hugged Odyssea fiercely. “Be brave, Odyssea. You still have more obstacles to face. I know you will get through them. You are stronger than you know.” Odyssea hugged her back. Charona was there, and she ferried them across. “Once I return the pendant to Poseidona, I will come back to you,” Circes said to Charona. “Or you’ll stand me up again,” she said. “I promise,” Circes took her hand. “I still have feelings for you and I’d like to see where this goes.” “It’s your last chance,” Charona said. “If you don’t return like you said you would, I will know that your promises are meaningless.” “Here, hold on to this for me,” Circes handed her his bag of precious herbs. “You’re giving me this?” Charona asked in surprise. “Yes, I am coming back,” Circes said. “See you soon!” He leaned in and they shared a kiss. After they exited the land of the Cimmerians and were back on the raft, Circes called to Poseidona, who arrived riding on a killer whale. She put out her hand and Circes returned the pendant. “It’s centuries late,” Poseidona said. “But I’m glad to have it back. You are now free from your exile. I’m going to extend a punishment to you, though, and I hate that Odyssea will be affected by your folly, but this is how it has to be.” Then she raised her arms and sent a violent storm after their small boat, crashing against the raft and tearing it in two. Odyssea and Circes got separated, the waves taking them in different directions. Odyssea gripped her eye pendant and held on tightly, as if it would somehow save her. Image by SylwiaWroblewska from Pixabay "The crew won’t last much longer, Odyssea,” Eurylocha commented. “We must find food and replenish our supplies. Otherwise we’re all going to faint from hunger and possibly die out here.” “We’re almost at the island,” Odyssea said. “It will save us from starvation. We can hunt game and build a fire.” “But we don’t know who or what lives there,” Polita said. “It could be overrun by cannibals, for all we know.” “If we remain on our boat any longer, we will die,” Odyssea said. “At least we have a chance with the island, unknown as it may be. Whatever comes, let’s face it with courage.” The crew docked their boat and stepped ashore. The island was covered by a forest, so the crew figured there would be plenty of wild animals to hunt for food. Odyssea took a small team with their bows and arrows and they scouted the island. “There is a trail of smoke rising in that direction!” Eurylocha said. The crew headed towards the smoke and soon came upon a large house made of white, polished stone, with a golden gate stretching around it. “Look! There are animals guarding the gate!” Polita said. Sure enough, there were wolves and lions sitting like sentries in front of the gate. The crew wondered who lived in such a magnificent place on a solitary island. Perhaps it was a child of the gods? “There’s something strange about those animals. They don’t seem wild,” Polita said. When the animals spotted Odyssea and her crew, they rushed over to them. The crew barely had time to run or draw their bows and arrows. But they didn’t need to. The animals surrounded them in a friendly manner and set to licking their faces and arms. Then Odyssea heard the singing. It surely was a child of the gods, the tuneful voice reaching her ears through the open window. The singing stopped and a young man came out to meet them. “Welcome, travelers,” the young man said. He was elegant and handsome, with gold-yellow hair and eyes as clear as the shore. His stylish chiton was of the palest blue and a gold sash was tied around his waist. “My name is Circes, and I welcome you to my island. Do you have any others with you? Please call them and bid them come to the feast I am holding in your honor!” “There is something strange about all of this,” Eurylocha said. “It’s almost like he was expecting us.” “I agree his invitation is a bit strange,” Odyssea said. “I don’t know if we can trust him, so let’s be on guard.” They sent a young woman back to the ship to call the others, and soon they were all gathered at the gates. They were afraid when they saw the wild animals come to lick them but soon realized the animals were friendly. “They’re extremely sociable,” Circes said. “They just want to play with you. You may pet them as much as you wish. They love visitors!” Circes unlatched the gates and invited the young women into the stone house. The house was exceptionally large, with a beautiful hall and a long table set with gold and silver bowls and plates. Four servant boys mingled about, setting out the feast. The young women were famished and gawked at the food that was being set out. There were platters of soft bread and numerous types of cheese. The servant boys filled their goblets with wine and offered honey to complement the bread. The crew members had hung their weapons near the entryway, but Odyssea had kept her sword sheathed at her side. Odyssea remembered all too well what had happened on the island of the lotus tree. She had let down her guard because the people were so friendly, and then the fruit had made her forget her quest. Her face reddened with shame when she thought about it, how Eurylocha had her tied up and forced to the ship, along with half of the crew who had also eaten the lotus fruit. And so Odyssea had decided she wouldn’t be caught unawares again. She didn’t quite trust Circes, so she refrained from eating, despite being ravenous. Eurylocha tried to be cautious, but at last she couldn’t resist the delicious aroma of the food in front of her. Odyssea sneaked a glance at Circes and noticed he was watching them closely, as if waiting for something to occur. He seemed friendly enough, smiling and joking with her crew members, but Odyssea believed he had a subtle motive. She wondered if her suspicions were reasonable and was tempted to order her crew to cease eating. But looking around at the ragged crew made her pause. After the hour had passed and everyone was stuffed, Circes stood from his chair and raised a golden rod. It glittered like sunlight and Odyssea wondered if Circes was related to the sun gods. “Trill, tweet, and twitter, I command thee to sprout feathers and fly!” he chanted. Instantly, the young women began to chirp like birds and feathers grew over their arms, which turned into wings. Their forms shrunk until they were the size of sparrows. Startled, Odyssea dove underneath the table, hoping Circes hadn’t noticed her. She watched as the strange boy, Circes, used a net to capture the birds and then stuffed them in a large cage, which he hung outside the kitchen window. Her poor crew members chirped madly, flying this way and that, searching unsuccessfully for a way out. “Now you will be like me,” Circes said to the sparrows. “Just as I am exiled alone on an island, unable to go anywhere or meet anyone, now you can experience my plight. You may gaze at the sky and the forest and feel the sweet breeze and smell the fragrant flowers, but you’ll be unable to join it, since you will be trapped in this cage.” Odyssea wondered at Circes’ powers. He had used magic food and drink that turned people into birds. Could she take him on, or would he overpower her with magic? As Circes walked past the table, Odyssea snatched his ankle and tripped him. He let out a surprised cry as he crashed to the ground. Now that he was down, Odyssea leaped over him, pinning him to the floor. Circes had fallen on his stomach, so Odyssea twisted his arm behind his back and unsheathed her sword. Circes yelled out in pain and tried to break free. But Odyssea planted the blade against his neck. “I have a sword and I mean to use it,” Odyssea said, as the servant boys scurried away. “Unless you give in to my demands.” “I’m a child of the gods! The grandson of Helios!” Circes sputtered. “You can’t kill me!” “True, I can’t kill you,” Odyssea said, “but I know how to cause pain.” “What manner of mortal are you that you were able to resist my magic? I am skilled in the arts of enchantments. Surely you must be some being sent by the gods to torment me! It wasn’t enough for them to send me into exile!” Odyssea narrowed her eyes at him. “Your ways were suspicious and I refrained from eating, despite being famished. Now, turn my friends back and let them go.” “I’m willing to negotiate,” Circes stopped struggling. “First, promise me you will not betray my trust. Promise not to use enchantments on me.” “I promise,” he said. “Make the Unbreakable Promise,” Odyssea retorted. She recalled that this was the only promise that gods couldn’t break. Circes let out a long sigh. “How long are you going to keep me detained? Those good-for-nothing wimps I have for servants! They’re afraid of a mere mortal!” “I’m not just a mere mortal,” Odyssea snapped. “I’m Odyssea, Princess of Ithaca. And future queen of Ithaca.” “I have heard of you,” Circes said. “All right then. I promise by the River Styx. I make the Unbreakable Promise to you, Odyssea, Princess of Ithaca.” “It’s a good thing you value your life,” Odyssea released him. “Come with me,” Circes got to his feet. “I know you are famished. Let me at least offer you food and a warm bath afterwards.” “I accept,” Odyssea said, for she was inching closer to fainting. She had held fast to her strength for as long as she could, but the lack of food was starting to make her dizzy. The servant boys- after Circes assured them that Odyssea wouldn’t harm them- set out silver bowls and golden goblets and placed all manner of food on the table. There was warm bread, cheese, and different kinds of fruits. They filled her goblet with wine. Since Circes had made the Unbreakable Promise, Odyssea now felt secure enough to eat the food he offered. After she had gotten her fill, the servant boys prepared a bath for her. Odyssea slipped out of her clothes and got into the gold bathtub, the warm water massaging her stiff muscles. She was so relaxed that she dozed off in the bathtub. When she awoke, she noticed that the servant boys had left fresh clothes for her, a white chiton and a pale-blue peplos. Odyssea dried off with a large towel and dressed. She marveled at the clothing, wondering how someone living alone on an island could acquire such fine fabric. 2.2 “This is my loom,” Circes was giving Odyssea a tour of his home. “The clothing you are wearing was weaved by me. I hope it is to your liking.” Odyssea was tired of the endless chitchat and hoped to get to the more important matter at hand, that of restoring her crew members to their human form! “Those wild animals by the gates, are they humans that were turned into animals?” Odyssea asked. “No,” Circes replied. “They are wild animals that I tamed with my magic.” Odyssea walked slowly, feeling the despondency envelop her. “Perhaps you are tired after this eventful day,” Circes said. “I will show you to your room. A good night’s rest will refresh your spirit.” “I fear I won’t be able to sleep,” Odyssea said in an undertone. “How can I rest when my friends are changed into animals and sealed in a cage?” “They may have the form of birds, but their minds are still human,” Circes said. “Your crew members have retained their human memories.” “Then that is even worse,” Odyssea said. “How can I ever sleep knowing they are in this cruel state? I will have to remain an insomniac.” “What would make you feel better?” Circes asked after a pause. “I want to see my friends and have them restored to their true form,” Odyssea said. “Please, Circes. I know you bewitched them, but I want to know whether this magic can be reversed. What do you wish to trade? We have plenty of treasures aboard the ship.” “I have no use for mere pirate treasure,” Circes said. “I am exiled on this island and I’d like a companion. You may stay as long as you want on my island and may visit your crew anytime you wish.” “I can’t leave them behind,” Odyssea said. “Just the thought strikes horror into my heart.” She thought for a moment. “What is keeping you here on this island?” she asked. “You are an enchanter. Can’t you leave?” “There’s a barrier beyond the reefs,” Circes said. “I’ve tried to leave many times before. I’ve bewitched dolphins and whales to carry me away from the island, but there’s a kind of barrier that I can’t go past, no matter what I do. The dolphins and whales are able to pass through but I’m stuck here on this island.” “What will it take for you to free them?” Odyssea asked again. Circes seemed unwilling to let them go. She also wondered what he’d done that caused the gods to send him into exile. “There’s nothing you can do,” Circes replied. Then a rash thought struck her. Circes had said he wished for a companion. “What if I stay in their place?” she asked before she lost the nerve. “Will you restore them and let them go? I will stay on this island and live here with you for the rest of my life.” Circes contemplated the idea. “Please,” pleaded Odyssea, glancing at the window where the cage was. “I’ll deliver myself up in their place!” Circes smiled. “I agree to this trade. Let’s shake on it.” Odyssea hesitated for a moment, staring at Circes’ outstretched hand. He waited, expectantly. Odyssea once again glanced at the birds. Then she shook Circes’ hand, even though everything inside her was warning her not to. Circes beamed. “You are a noble woman for giving up your life for your friends,” Circes said. “I admire your valor.” Circes brought the cage into the hall and unfastened the cage door. He released the birds, one by one, and fed them some magic birdseed. The feathers disappeared and the crew members reverted to their human form, back to their regular size. Odyssea was overjoyed to see her crew members again. They gathered around her, hugging and talking amongst themselves. That night, Odyssea’s crewmates slept soundly, not knowing the difficult news they would hear the next day. Odyssea and her young women had been shown to a beautiful spacious room, with a large bed and gilded furniture. The color scheme was mostly silver and soft blues. Three of the young women had claimed the bed, while Odyssea and the others slept on pallets on the floor. Odyssea found that sleep evaded her, and she tossed and turned all night, being kept awake by nightmares. The young women boarded the boat and were surprised to see Odyssea standing on the shore. Eurylocha and Polita approached. “Why aren’t you coming, Odyssea?” they asked. “Do we have to drag you to the ship once more?” “You’re free to go,” Odyssea told her dear friends. “But I must stay. You must forget me, for I have made a bargain with Circes that I will remain and live on the island.” Her friends pleaded with her to go with them. “I can’t break my promise,” Odyssea said. Her friends protested but it was useless. They told Odyssea to forget about Circes and escape anyway. But a promise was a promise. And Odyssea always kept her word. With tears in their eyes, they said their farewells and returned to the ship. They vowed to come again and free her. “It’s no use,” said Odyssea sadly. “Don’t return. When I see you, I will be reminded of my old life and will mourn if you do.” Her friends looked stricken but they agreed with her logic. “It’s better this way,” were Odyssea’s last words to her friends. Odyssea gulped as she watched her crew members leave. From the top of the cliff she glimpsed the boat move away and disappear into the horizon. Odyssea felt incredibly alone, as if she were suddenly freezing. Her friends were gone and here she was, stuck on an island forever. She was Princess of Ithaca, and now she was trapped as if in exile. A wave of sadness spilled into her mind, filling it with waves of hopelessness. Like a sea that never ends. When her vision became distorted by the tears, she sat on the ground with her arms wrapped around her knees and sniveled. She sat very still, mourning the loss of her freedom. How could something like this have just happened? Circes approached. “Don’t worry,” he said cheerfully. “We will have so much fun every day! We can do whatever we want!” Odyssea looked at him for a moment and then her head went down in despair. Circes sat beside her and wondered what to do. He now had a companion and wouldn’t need anyone else. His days of solitude were over. But now Odyssea wasn’t talking to him. “It’s okay,” Circes tried to soothe her. “There’s so much to do here. We’ll never get bored. There are myriads of animals to play with. There are trees to climb, caves to explore, waterfalls to jump into, and lakes to swim in. We can even get married later on.” He put his arm around her and Odyssea felt even worse. Marry him? What had she gotten herself into? Oh well, she thought, I’m stuck here anyway, so I might as well. “Hey, I know!” Circes took her hands and pulled her to standing. “We never finished our tour! I’ll show you the gardens, the waterfalls, and all the other rooms in the palace.” She looked at him blankly; her mouth turned down in grief. He clasped her arm and showed her around the place. Indeed it was unbelievable. What had appeared to Odyssea and her crew to be a house made out of stone turned out to be more of a palace. It had every luxury a monarch could wish for, probably because Circes was a child of the gods. But Odyssea’s expression remained lifeless. “Don’t worry,” said Circes. “You’re not a prisoner here.” Odyssea thought about those words. Wasn’t she? Everything she knew was gone. Her family, her friends, and her kingdom. She would never see any of them ever again. Odyssea walked on lifelessly, following like a statue. She definitely felt like a captive, and had lost all hope. Her mind was imprisoned in a solitary cage. And her happiness was gone. Possibly forever. When night came, she slipped outside to gaze up at the moon. She sat there for what seemed like hours, not speaking, just sitting and mourning, hoping she could just curl up there on the seashore and die a peaceful death. Circes came searching for her, concerned for her welfare, and led her back to the palace. Odyssea fell asleep late that night after hours of sleeplessness. Something in her had been shattered. And the loss was showing. She woke up in the early morning, took out her eye pendant and studied it. It made her feel a little better somehow, comforting her so that she was able to sleep again. A voice came into her dreams. An owl flew through the night, and Odyssea recognized Atheno’s voice. “All things must end,” the whisper said. “Nothing is permanent.” Odyssea woke up with the words playing in her mind but she was too depressed to understand the meaning of the message. As the weeks went by, Odyssea had become completely numb to any kind of feeling or emotion, since she was overcome with sadness. Though her crying had stopped, she was still as blank as ever. Shocked by the loss of her freedom. How happy she’d been just a few weeks ago. Instead she seemed to be truly stranded here. But she hoped that her friends would find more allies and save the kingdom of Ithaca. Despite Circes’ impressive efforts to win her over, Odyssea still had her secrets. She kept her precious eye pendant hidden from Circes and his servant boys. It was the one thing she had from her old life and it gave her a glimmer of hope whenever she gazed upon it. On one particular day, Odyssea found a secluded place in a clearing of trees. Circes had asked if he could come with her, but she’d told him she wanted to practice her swordsmanship. Odyssea looked around and made sure she was completely alone. Even the birds seemed to have quieted. She unsheathed her sword and stared at it thoughtfully, raising it to examine the hilt. It had been a gift from her mother before she passed away. The sword had a sapphire jewel on the hilt, one her mother had received from her mother, and so on down the line of ancestors. She’d told Odyssea it was a guiding charm. She thought of her mother and wondered if she’d see her again that day. Odyssea flipped the sword around and pointed it to her heart, then shut her eyes. Her arms started shaking like branches in the wind. A few tears slipped out of the corners of her eyes. The numbness left her completely and a torrent of despair wracked her body, causing her to drop the sword. Odyssea sank to her knees in the grass and cried, thinking about how she was too cowardly to join her mother in the Underworld. “You’ll never get anywhere by staring at the ground,” a voice said. “You were meant for the stars.” Odyssea quickly got to her feet and scanned the area. A young man was sitting on the lowest branch of a tree, a few paces away. Odyssea wiped the tears from her eyes and picked up her sword. The young man had golden hair and wore a white chiton with a silver sash. He dropped from the branch and landed on his feet. “I didn’t see you there,” Odyssea said. “I thought I was alone.” She still felt like crying but didn’t want to do so in front of a stranger. She wondered if he was one of Circes’ servants, but she didn’t get that vibe from him. “I know what will take your mind off your problems,” the young man smiled enigmatically. “How about a friendly duel?” “I like the sound of that, but how are we to duel, seeing as you don’t have a weapon?” Odyssea was certain he was unarmed, but wondered if she’d missed something. The young man gave a sly smile and pulled a shining sword from behind him. It had a golden hilt and seemed to gleam in the sunlight. “I have one now,” he smiled. “That’s an unbelievably shiny sword,” Odyssea admired it. “All right, then, let’s begin.” Odyssea sized up the stranger. He was several inches taller than her, and his weapon seemed strong. “I like your sword,” the young man grinned. “But will it be any match for mine?” He struck first and Odyssea quickly parried it, though the clang from the blow jarred her shoulder. She knew she was out of practice. Her skills weren’t as sharp as usual. “Anything can be a weapon in the hands of a master,” Odyssea retorted. She watched to see what he would do. The young man swung again and the sword clashed against hers as she hacked low to intercept the attack. “But the weapon also has to be good quality, otherwise it may break,” the young man thrust his sword at her torso. Odyssea jumped backwards and parried his attack. The young man regarded her with a curious glance. “Are you a doer or a watcher?” he asked. “All you’re doing is waiting for my attack. Have you lost already, warrior?” Odyssea wasn’t sure what he meant. Was he referring to her fighting style or to something deep within her mind? “Let’s make this more interesting,” the young man said, his sword up and ready. “If you win, I leave you here alone to your dark thoughts. Is that what you want?” Odyssea gritted her teeth and swung the blade at his shoulder. The young man leaned backwards and kicked out, catching her in the leg. Odyssea almost lost her balance, since she hadn’t been expecting that. Stay alert! She told herself. And whatever you do, don’t fall down! “What happens if you win?” she asked. “I’ll tell you after I win,” he said. They continued sparring for several minutes. Odyssea’s forehead was slick with sweat while the young man seemed barely winded. He slashed his sword towards her middle. Odyssea shuffled sideways to avoid the blow, then swung at her opponent’s upper arm. He parried with such force that the sword was knocked out of her hands. Then he lunged forward and pointed the sword at her neck. Odyssea stepped back onto an uneven patch of ground and fell backwards onto her bottom. She had lost and was furious with herself for doing so. Deep down she wondered, what is the use, anyway? “You won,” she said flatly. “So what is it you want?” “I want you to love your life,” he said slowly, lowering his sword. Odyssea glanced at him in surprise. “I know who you are,” Odyssea said. “Only a child of the gods can fight so gracefully and not break a sweat. You must be Atheno.” “You have spoken truly,” Atheno said. When she looked again, she saw that the golden sword had disappeared. “Tyresia told me you’re my patron,” Odyssea said, as Atheno extended a hand and pulled her to her feet. “That is true. You have great promise,” Atheno said. “I know you are in despair and I am disheartened by this. I came to give you courage.” He bent to pick up Odyssea’s sword, and handed it to her, hilt first. “How can you give someone courage?” Odyssea sheathed her sword. “Courage is a state of mind, not a quality you can just bestow on someone.” “True, but you can guide someone to the experience that will cultivate their courage,” Atheno smiled. “I know I have failed the quest,” Odyssea looked down. “To save my friends, I gave my life in their place.” “It may seem like it will last forever,” Atheno said. “But trust me when I say that change is inevitable. And the events will start to make sense after a while. Find the courage to love your life. Cherish it. Please don’t end it.” Odyssea stared at him in shock. “You knew what I was thinking of doing,” she said, and her mind descended further into darkness. She thought about how she didn’t know what was next in her life, and a tear trailed down her face. “Odyssea, I haven’t forgotten you. I care for your well-being and your future,” Atheno wiped the tear from her cheek. “You are the hero I’ve chosen to raise up and honor. Remember that you’re only stranded if you believe you are. And this obstacle might even be the stepping stone to your next adventure.” “But I don’t see a way out!” Odyssea whispered fiercely. She whipped around to hide the tears that flowed down her face. When she turned back to face him, she saw that he’d vanished. The forest was quiet and Odyssea was left in the turmoil of her thoughts. 2.3 While Circes picked flowers in the garden, Odyssea sat on a stone bench, as if she were a statue. Circes returned with the flowers and placed one in her hair. “I know you’ve been despondent and heartbroken by your many losses,” he said. “And I want you to be happy here. And so I was thinking of celebrating the biggest event of our life together.” Circes took her hand and knelt in front of her. Odyssea noticed him kneeling and turned away to gaze out at the ocean. “Will you marry me?” Circes asked. Odyssea started trembling and tears trailed down her face. His question reminded her of her hopeless predicament and the permanence of the situation. “Don’t cry,” Circes consoled. “It will be fun, I promise.” “Let’s get this over with,” Odyssea sniffled. Once she married him, she would truly be stranded. Her hope would be extinguished, leaving her with nothing else to lose. The day of the wedding ceremony arrived sooner than Odyssea expected. The servant boys brought her a new peplos to wear, which was so dazzling she could hardly bear to look at it. Circes wore a light blue chiton lined with gold and silver. The servant boys had certainly outdone themselves, decorating the grand hall with garlands and hues of blue and gold and silver trinkets. They had picked flowers of dazzling colors from the garden and had placed them along the hall everywhere the eye could see. Odyssea tried to feel something. Anything. But her mind was just as lifeless as the day she’d lost her entire world. She went through the motions devoid of any feeling or emotion. Just a numb existence. Odyssea wandered the palace, wanting to get away from all the flowery decorations- which just made her feel nauseated- and came upon Circes’ room. She had never been in here before and was curious to learn more about Circes’ story. The room was large and spacious, with a large canopy bed and a balcony that seemed to wrap around the entire room. Odyssea spied a large tapestry on one wall, showing a figure wearing the same eye pendant she owned! She approached the tapestry and scanned the scene it depicted, showing what seemed like Circes, taking the eye pendant from Poseidona, the queen of the sea, and tossing it into the Underworld, through a hole in the ground, which appeared to have been part of some enchantment. “I was looking for you,” Circes found her. “What are you doing in my chambers?” “I wished to learn more about the person I’m marrying,” Odyssea said. She motioned to the tapestry. “Will you tell me your story? I want to know how you came to be exiled and what this eye pendant is.” “All right,” Circes stared up at the tapestry and seemed to get lost in another time and place.“It was centuries ago. I wanted to become an enchanter like my aunt Circe, but I didn’t want to work hard for it. I thought I could simply take the pendant and be filled with power. But it didn’t work like that. I stole the pendant from Poseidona, and then when she was gaining on me, I didn’t want her to have it, so I created a hole and used the magic of the pendant to transport it to the Underworld, where she couldn’t get it. Poseidona was so enraged that she held a council with the Gods and had me exiled on this island. The pendant has since been lost.” “How many pendants are there like that one?” Odyssea asked. “There are only three,” Circes said. “Poseidona’s eye pendant has a blue iris, but the other two have a red iris and a green one.” Odyssea recalled that her pendant had the red iris. “So if you find it and return it then you’ll be set free?” she asked. “Perhaps, but it’s not like I can go anywhere if I’m exiled,” Circes said. “Maybe Hadessa and Persephonus know where it is,” Odyssea supplied. At last she could see some hope of Circes’ exile being lifted and this kept her pensive for a while. “Shall we head to the ceremony?” Circes asked. They walked together to the main hall. Odyssea thought of her friends again and another thought struck her. A water nymph had arrived to perform the ceremony. “Let’s get this wedding started,” she announced, a bright smile on her face. “Do you, Circes, take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife?” she asked. Circes smiled and gazed at Odyssea. “I most certainly do,” he said. “And do you, Odyssea, take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband?” the nymph asked. Odyssea looked up for a second, perplexed, until the nymph pointed to Circes. Odyssea pondered the situation anew. Should she marry someone she didn’t love? She was stuck here anyway. There was no reason why she couldn’t marry him, was there? But marrying him would take all her hope away. And the marriage would only bring added complications into her life. She was sure that if she said ‘I do’ she would start weeping and never stop. She would probably cry eternally. Odyssea picked at the flower in her hair and dropped it on the floor. A spark of feeling seemed to enter her mind just then. Maybe all was not lost. Perhaps she could escape from the island. But she’d need to build a raft. But how was that possible? Seeing how the wild animals would notice and would tell Circes of it. And how could she bear to break her promise? Odyssea wasn’t sure, but she felt that extinguishing her last drops of hope would mean her imminent death. And she didn’t want to die. But wouldn’t death be preferable to this loss of everything she knew? She didn’t want to lose all her hope. She didn’t want her promise to feel permanent. “I’m sorry,” she decided. “There won’t be a wedding today.” She left the hall and went straight to her room, opening the windows and looking out over the balcony. Circes knocked on her door, which Odyssea completely ignored, but he let himself in and joined her on the balcony. “I’m just like a caged bird,” Odyssea said. “I can look out over the horizon and see the ocean, and all it does is cause me to yearn for home, filling me with despondency and nostalgia.” “But this is your home now,” Circes said. “You haven’t accepted it. You resist this life.” “Accepting it would mean extinguishing all traces of hope,” Odyssea said. “I can give up nearly everything. But I find that I can’t give up hope.” “But love is the meaning of all!” Circes said. “Of course we don’t love each other now. But love will come later. Wouldn’t you like to undertake this new adventure?” “There is more to living than this,” Odyssea said after some thought. “In Ithaca I have my parents, my father Telemachus, my younger sister, and my kingdom. I have my people to protect. I have responsibilities and family ties. I have my friends, my crew members, whom I love dearly. How can I toss all of it away just for one person, though he may be a child of the gods, whom I don’t love and who practically forced me to give up my life for my friends. It is a difficult thing to let go of all the things I love, for a promise I made in the moment, when saving my friends seemed like the urgent priority. I mean, I wouldn’t do anything differently. I had thought I could give in to my exile, but I find that hope tethers me to my family and friends. I can’t be companions with you because I have nothing left.” Circes seemed to get smaller and to lose all energy. He sat down on the tiles of the balcony, shoulders slumped and head tilted down. “What do we do now?” he asked in a subdued voice. Odyssea glanced at him, then turned back to the horizon and a spark of hope seemed to get brighter inside her. “Perhaps we can end your exile. I will intercede on your behalf with my patron god Atheno. Maybe something can be done. You obviously don’t want to live on an island all alone. You want companionship, and I bet you can get companionship if you come with me to my kingdom.” Circes looked at her. Odyssea seemed like a different person than what she’d been like the past few weeks. She seemed to be coming back to life, her eyes taking on the usual spirit they’d had when he’d first met her. “There’s nothing you can do,” Circes stared at the floor. “Circes, listen to me,” Odyssea got down to his level and studied his face. “No one, not even the gods, can change your destiny,” she said. “You are the master of your own life. If you truly want to leave the island, come with me. We’ll go to my kingdom and you’ll have a place there. I will be one of your most trusted friends. I’m not searching for a life partner, but I am always ready to accept a friend.” “I will come with you,” Circes’ face lit up and they both stood and gazed at the ocean from the balcony. “First we’ll need to build a raft,” Odyssea said. “Then we will catch up with my crew and return to Ithaca. Atheno will protect us during the journey.” “I almost made you lose your life, and yet you have saved my life,” Circes said. “I will forever be indebted to you and I offer my services to aid the kingdom of Ithaca.” They called the servant boys and water nymphs together and built a raft. Odyssea called to Atheno and he visited her. The young man wore armor and helmet, and held a golden spear. “Atheno, please free Circes from his exile,” Odyssea pleaded. “It is only if he’s liberated that I’ll be able to free myself of my vow.” Atheno was about to speak when he was interrupted. Suddenly, a woman came out of the water standing on a wave. She wore a sea-blue peplos and had a trident in one hand and a tiara on her head. She had long dark curls framing her head and was striking to look at, but also seemed warlike. Odyssea knew this was none other than Poseidona, Queen of the Sea. “Are you sure you want an enchanter to leave the island? Imagine what havoc he could cause! He was exiled for a reason. Even his grandfather Helios doesn’t care about him,’” Poseidona explained. “He has sworn his loyalty to my kingdom,” Odyssea said. “And he won’t be able to turn more people into animals. I don’t want anyone to go through the despair I experienced. And the loneliness Circes felt for all those years surely has been punishment enough.” Poseidona gave it some thought. “Agreed,” she said. “Circes is free of his exile and is allowed to leave the island. But I have one condition.” Circes looked up as Poseidona turned a glare on him. “You need to go to the Underworld and retrieve my lost pendant. You have three months to complete the task. If you fail, you will return to the island and live in exile forever.” Circes let out the breath he’d been holding, then turned to Odyssea. “Will you help me?” he asked, looking distraught. “Let’s go at once,” Odyssea said. They set sail, Poseidona and Atheno watching after them. The first place they sailed to was an island across the sea from Ithaca.
“Welcome to our village,” a kind man welcomed Odyssea’s crew after they alighted from their boat. “Thank you for receiving us,” Odyssea said. “We are looking for allies, the children of the Gods, if you know where we might find them.” “I don’t really know where they could be,” the man said. “But please come to the festival. There will be plenty of food from our lotus trees, and we can dance and party the night away. The festival is held next to the oldest and largest lotus tree on the island.” “What a coincidence that we arrived right on the day of one of your festivals,” Eurylocha said. “Oh we have festivals every day,” the man said. “Follow me and I’ll take you to a place you can rest.” “Let’s be wary,” Polita said. “They hold festivals every single day? Something’s not right here.” That evening, Odyssea spoke at length with the leaders of the village. “I was wondering if you’d like to become allies with my kingdom,” she said. “We can help one another in times of need. Can we count on you to come to our aid if we need you?” “Go where?” the chief leaders said. “This island is the only thing we know. We don’t care about any other place. This land is a paradise and we invite you and your companions to stay and live with us.” “Thank you for the offer, but we must be going on our way in a few days,” Odyssea said. “Here, have some lotus fruit,” a leader offered her some white fruit from a platter. Odyssea took a bite of the lotus. “It’s very tasty,” she said. “I’ve never eaten this kind of fruit before.” “It’s a fruit of agreement,” the leader said. “Everyone on the island agrees that it tastes excellent. We pretty much eat it every day. A lotus a day keeps the physician away, as the saying goes.” A young man with golden hair came over. “Hello, I’m Chrysanthos. Would you care to dance?” he asked her. Odyssea nodded and followed him to the designated dancing area, which was right next to the tree. “This is the great lotus tree,” Chrysanthos said. “It takes care of us and keeps us happy.” “How long have you lived on this island?” Odyssea asked. “Or did you grow up here?” “I’ve been here as long as I can remember,” Chrysanthos smiled. “My whole life, perhaps.” They joined hands and swayed to the music. Odyssea was trained in combat but not so much in dancing. “You’re really good at this,” she said. “Of course! I dance every day!” Chrysanthos said, spinning her around. Odyssea added some combat-style moves to her dancing, since that’s what she knew best. When they were tired, they sat down by the tree. “I think I’m getting a headache,” Odyssea said. “Maybe I need more food.” She started to get up. “Wait, I’ll get you something,” Chrysanthos reached up and plucked a fruit from the lotus tree. Odyssea ate it and began to feel sleepy. She leaned against Chrysanthos’ shoulder and closed her eyes. Eurylocha found her a while later and took her to the crews’ tents. “I don’t think we’re going to find any allies here,” Eurylocha said. “Everyone we talk to seems to not know of any other place than this.” “Yeah, and I’m getting the feeling that people here are not very intelligent. Their education seems severely lacking, since they don’t recognize any place I show them on the maps,” said Polita. The next morning, Eurylocha and Polita noticed that Odyssea was missing from the tent they shared. They searched and found her eating breakfast with the young man she’d danced with the night before, and his family. “Odyssea, what in the world are you doing?” Eurylocha raised an eyebrow. “We were searching for you and you didn’t tell us where you went. This place is bizarre and we must stick together. We need to go. ” “Go where?” Odyssea asked, a blank look in her eyes. “I’m just enjoying breakfast with this family. We’ve been discussing possible marriage plans. I wish to stay here, get married, and live here with this wonderful family.” “You can do whatever you want after we finish our quest,” Polita said firmly. “We’ve only just started and you’re ready to give up already?” “Give up what?” Odyssea asked, confused. Eurylocha took her by the arms and dragged her out of the home. “What is wrong with you?! Don’t you remember the Prophecy? This is the whole reason why you gathered a crew together! We need to find five allies and then we can return to Ithaca.” “What prophecy?” Odyssea shook her head. “I don’t know what you’re talking about!” “Tie her,” Eurylocha ordered the crew. Despite her protests, they tied Odyssea’s wrists together and dragged her to the boat. Once they set sail, they let her go. After the lotus fruit had worn off from her system, Odyssea began to remember her original quest and was able to take command of the ship once more. “Where to next?” she asked her navigator, Polita, who was poring over the map. “I say we head north to this peninsula. I believe a child of the Gods lives around there somewhere,” she pointed. “We failed with the Lotus eaters, but I’m sure we’ll be successful at finding an ally there,” Odyssea said. “Yeah, better than you going all lotus-crazy and proposing marriage to that lotus eater!” Eurylocha snickered. Odyssea’s face reddened and she shouted at her crew to get back to work and sail the ship. Image by Leonhard Niederwimmer from Pixabay Based on The Odyssey “You can’t just enter the palace to speak to the princess whenever you want,” a guard bellowed to the young woman at the gates.
“It’s precisely because she’s the princess that I have to speak with her,” the young woman requested. She wore a dark blue peplos and carried a golden rod. “My name is Tyresia and I have a prophecy for Princess Odyssea.” “All right,” the guard muttered. “But give me your rod. Follow me.” Tyresia handed him the rod and followed the guard through the gates and into the courtyard of the palace. Odyssea was sparring with her younger sister, their swords clashing against one another’s. The older young woman was skilled with the sword and had dark wavy brown hair and blue eyes. She was seventeen, almost ready to take the crown after her father Telemachus. One thing irked her, though. Her father hinted he was arranging her marriage but hadn’t yet told her who the groom would be. Odyssea saw the guard enter the courtyard and ended the sparring match, sending her 12 year-old sister back to the palace. She noticed the unfamiliar young woman coming her way. “Sorry, Your Highness,” the guard said. “But this girl insisted she had to see you. Calls herself a seer.” “Thank you,” Odyssea said. “I am Tyresia,” the young woman said, “and it’s true, I am a seer. For I have come with a prophecy.” Odyssea indicated her to sit at the stone table in the garden and asked for food to be brought. “How do I know that you are a seer?” Odyssea asked. Tyresia smiled. “I’ve brought a gift from Atheno. This is an eye pendant, an extremely rare and powerful magical artifact. It will protect you in the challenging times ahead. Please take it with you and don’t show it to anyone lest they steal it.” She passed a pouch to Odyssea, who opened it and inspected the item. It was a gold eye pendant with red coloring around the iris. “Thank you, Tyresia,” she said. “I will safeguard it carefully.” “This prophecy is for you, Honored Odyssea,” Tyresia said. “A future enemy is developing and Ithaca will be attacked. The war will last for several years and numerous people will be killed, until Ithaca will be conquered by the enemy and will cease to exist.” Odyssea gasped. “The only way to stop this from happening is for you to go on a quest,” Tyresia continued. “You need to travel to various lands and gather five allies, especially the children of the Gods. If you do so, your allies will come to your aid at a future day when the enemy strikes, and Ithaca will prevail against them and be preserved.” “Your words distress me,” Odyssea said after a moment. “But I thank you for the warning. I will prepare at once. My kingdom will not fall into enemy hands.” “Atheno favors you and will guide you during your journey,” Tyresia said. “Be sure to call on him when you need assistance. The eye pendant will help you arrive where you want to go and become what you wish to be.” “Thank you,” Odyssea said. “Won’t you stay awhile at the palace?” “I’ve delivered my message and am needed somewhere else,” Tyresia stood up to go. “I thank you for your kindness and hospitality but I must take my leave.” Odyssea walked Tyresia to the door and equipped her with provisions and supplies. Soon after, Odyssea invited the most skilled warriors to join her crew on their journey. She didn’t delay, but got the food and supplies ready for the voyage, including armor and weapons. Her best friends Eurylocha and Polita were among the crew of twenty-five. A few short weeks later, they set off on their voyage, calling on Atheno to guide them. Image by Anja-#pray for ukraine# #helping hands# stop the war from Pixabay Early the next morning, Kavi got up and left his room, checking to make sure Amana wasn’t around.
“Good morning!” Amana’s cheerful voice startled him. She was right behind him. How had he not heard her footsteps? “I didn’t hear you there,” Kavi’s voice trembled as he turned around. For once, Amana wasn’t wearing black. She wore a red shirt and dark blue jeans. But the scarlet red still reminded him of blood and vampires. “I didn’t mean to scare you,” Amana said. “I’m sorry. This whole vampire persona thing, I guess I took it too far. But I assure you there is nothing sinister in the backyard.” Kavi tried to hide the tremors but he just wanted to get out of there as soon as possible. “I was hoping you would stay,” Amana said. “Please? You’re the best translator I’ve had and I also consider you a friend. Actually, I think of you as my best friend. That’s why I asked you about going on a date.” A date? And get himself killed? Sure, she would probably pretend she was going to kiss him, only to bite into his neck and suck his blood! She had almost gotten him last time! “No, I’m not staying,” Kavi said firmly. He got out his phone to call a taxi. “Um…I almost forgot. Taxis don’t run on Sundays,” Amana said slowly. She kept her distance, realizing Kavi was truly afraid and would back away if she took a step toward him. “What?!” Kavi stared at her in shock. “Well…we’re in the middle of nowhere. What did you expect?” Amana reasoned. Kavi felt anger bubbling up inside him. And most of all- fear. It rushed into him like a wave and threatened to explode. “Come inside and have breakfast,” Amana coaxed him. “I made scrambled eggs and bacon.” Kavi’s stomach rumbled. “Okay,” Kavi finally gave in and went inside, fervently hoping Amana wouldn’t use ketchup this time. * A knock came on the door of his quarters. Kavi cautiously opened it and saw Amana. “May I come in?” she asked, holding a small book. “Okay,” Kavi moved aside so she could enter. He told himself to be on his guard. To ever be alert. “Kavi, I would really like it if you stayed. We’re making headway on that book written by the Indian queen. Don’t you want to find out what the book contains? This connection between the Indus Valley and Ancient Egypt… this could be a new discovery!” Kavi thought about it. He valued his life more. “Yes, I do want to keep working on it,” he said. “But that tomb in the backyard….worries me.” “If I tell you what’s in there, will you trust me?” Amana said. “Will you stop fearing me?” Kavi shook his head. “Okay, then if you won’t trust me, will you at least stay until we finish translating that book? I’ll give you a bonus.” “Maybe,” Kavi said. “All right, come with me,” Amana held out a hand. “I’m going to show you something.” Without thinking, Kavi accepted her hand. After he did so, he realized what he’d done but felt it would be rude to let go, so he allowed her to lead him outside. Instead of being icy cold, this time her fingers felt warm. Once they were outside, Amana let go of his hand. She picked up a shovel and began to dig. Kavi watched and waited, hoping he wouldn’t end up in the ground. Amana dug up a box the size of a large basket. It was a safe. She opened it with a key from her necklace. “Come and see. Open it,” Amana said. Kavi crouched down to see. He slowly pulled open the safe’s door and witnessed several ancient-looking books and scrolls. “These are my most prized possessions. Some of my rarest manuscripts, which I purchased on a trip to India,” Amana said. “I keep them in here to ward off thieves. After my boyfriend ran away with my rare book, I heard the rumors and decided to go along with them to make a plan for securing my rarest books. And so I installed a gravestone here, to ward off intruders. This way I am protecting ancient history.” Kavi was speechless. “This was why I didn’t want to talk about it. I bury my treasure under a pretend gravestone so that people will stay away,” she continued. “But perhaps this story should end. Help me bring this to the library and you can peruse them at will.” Kavi happily obliged. * “Are you sure it’s safe?” Uma asked carefully. Kavi spoke into the phone. “Yes, I’ve decided to stay.” “But what about the rumors?” Uma wanted to know. “Those rumors were just embellishments of a bad breakup. People can be so imaginative. The burglary had happened around Halloween and so people made up stories and the tales just continued unchecked.” “How long will you be staying there?” Uma asked. “Well, I might be staying for a while. Also, Amana has asked me out on a date and I said yes.” “You’re going on a date with a vampire?” Uma laughed. “She’s not a vampire; she’s a scholar like me,” Kavi grinned. “And a protector of ancient history. I think we will get along very well together.” Amana opened the safe and brought out the rare book so they could work some more on it.
Kavi sat at the desk and tried to keep his eyes open. He’d had very little sleep the night before, which had mostly been filled with nightmares. He reached for the book and Amana stopped him. “Gloves first,” she said. Kavi dragged the gloves onto his hands and tried to stifle a yawn. “You don’t look like you got enough sleep,” Amana said. “Yeah, I had some nightmares,” Kavi admitted. “Must be the full moon,” Amana joked. “Weird things always happen during the full moon. In fact, I’ll get out my telescope and we can look at the moon and stars tonight if you’d like.” “Maybe. I’ll see how I’m feeling then,” Kavi said. * “Kavi?” Amana shook his shoulder and Kavi woke up abruptly. He had fallen asleep at the desk with his head down. “I only left for a few minutes and when I returned you were dead asleep,” she said. “Oh, I…” Kavi turned his head and saw drool on his sleeve. He quickly wiped it against his side to hide it. “Go to bed,” Amana ordered. “We’ll continue translating when you’re well rested. I don’t want any mistakes on this book.” “Sorry…” Kavi said. That evening, Kavi went to the backyard to see if Amana had set up her telescope. The stars were out and the full moon was brighter than usual. “Kavi, you made it,” Amana smiled. “I was just admiring the moon. Come and see it.” She was sitting in a camping chair and had brought an extra one for Kavi. Amana peered through the telescope. “Check out the moon,” she said. “It looks glorious! I can see the sea of tranquility really well. That’s where the first humans on the moon landed. Try it.” Kavi put his eye to the eyepiece and looked through. “That’s amazing,” he said. “I’ve never seen so much detail in the moon before.” “Let me show you some of the stars and planets,” Amana said enthusiastically. She didn’t wait for him to move, but positioned herself right next to him, close enough that their shoulders were touching. “Okay, I’ve found Jupiter,” Amana made room for Kavi and he looked into the telescope. “Wow,” Kavi said. Then he felt a gentle arm encircle his shoulders. He turned his gaze and saw Amana smiling at him. The touch felt warm and inviting. Kavi was lost in the moment and speechlessly watched Amana’s face getting closer and closer. Kavi got ready to close his eyes, wondering if Amana was going to kiss him. Kavi turned away from the telescope and entered into Amana’s embrace. He closed his eyes as Amana gave him a gentle kiss. It seemed like she didn’t want to let go. Neither did he. Kavi opened his eyes and spotted something large poking out of the ground. He tensed and Amana slowly let go of him, sensing something was wrong. “I’m really glad you came,” Amana was saying. “I feel like I’m getting to know you quite well. Ever since my ex left, I’ve been very lonely, and I’m growing fond of you. Maybe we could go on a date.” She glanced at his face shyly. But Kavi barely registered her words as he zeroed in on the strange object in the backyard. It seemed very much like a tombstone. “What is that?” Kavi asked, pointing. Amana saw where he was looking and her eyes widened for a moment. “It’s just an unmarked grave that has been on this property for generations,” she said in a way to signify that the subject was closed. Kavi shivered just looking at the tombstone. He wondered how many bodies were down there. Perhaps he should call the police or do some digging- no that would be too frightening. “Kavi, what’s the matter with you?” Amana asked, coming his way. She reached out a hand. “Stay back!” Kavi’s voice shook. Amana stopped in her tracks. “I’m sorry,” she said. “But are you okay?” “I’m getting out of here,” Kavi said. He had had enough. “There are no taxis that run this late,” Amana replied in a steady voice. “I can’t stay here with you! You’re going to murder me too!” Kavi clapped his hands over his mouth in horror. “Look, I didn’t murder anyone!” Amana said. “Whatever rumors you heard, they’re not true!” “There’s a tomb right here!” Kavi exclaimed, motioning with his hand. “This is proof!” “No it’s not,” Amana said sourly. “I’ll explain later. But right now, let’s enjoy this time.” “Stay away from me!” Kavi shouted. “I’m leaving tomorrow first thing in the morning!” Amana stared at him with a hurt look on her face. But she said nothing. She had been so sure that Kavi had feelings for her, just like she had for him, but now he wanted nothing to do with her. |
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