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Recent Statuses

2 yrs ago
Secured myself two interviews next week and waiting on the outcome of a third, feeling good today ๐Ÿ’•
8 likes
3 yrs ago
I think there are far more important things to worry about than people calling their characters "muses".
5 likes
4 yrs ago
Imagine how sad your life must be to flex on some nerds online.
6 likes
6 yrs ago
nuke the status bar
6 likes
7 yrs ago
I passed my exams!
9 likes

Bio

โ•”โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•—
a e w i n
also known as the weirdo that fangirls a lot
โ€ข annie โ€ข 26 โ€ข united kingdom โ€ข

โ•šโ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•โ•

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๐–ˆ ๐–† ๐–™ ๐–ˆ ๐– ๐–š ๐–•
๐–ˆ ๐–† ๐–™ ๐–ˆ ๐– ๐–š ๐–•

๐ฅ๐จ๐œ๐š๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง: Hades & Persephone's home, by the World Tree
๐ข๐ง๐ญ๐ž๐ซ๐š๐œ๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ: Vรกli @Hey Im Jordan & Persephone @Aewin
๐ฆ๐ž๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ: Hades @sly13, Athena @metanoia || Melinoรซ @KZOMBI3 || Odin @KZOMBI3 & A Special Friend
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Vรกli had been in Seattle for less than a day, and already two things had gone wrong. Firstly, his father wasnโ€™t responding to his text. Granted, Vรกli hadnโ€™t exactly sent a text message with a lot to respond to, but Odin was hardly the type to ignore his only son that still liked talking to him. But that was easily overlooked; to Vรกli, finding Persephone at the world tree instead of at A New Leaf was more troubling.

Vรกli wasnโ€™t a stranger to approaching people and having them be unaware โ€” he was naturally quiet and stealthy in the way he moved, especially for someone so large. But, he knew she could sense his presence, the plants would have told her that he was there, but why didnโ€™t she turn to face and acknowledge him? โ€œPersephone, are you alright?โ€ He asked with a frown, โ€œThis isnโ€™tโ€ฆโ€ He thought for a moment, and then decided on a word. โ€œ...normal.โ€

Shortly after Thor had left her home, Persephone decided to take a walk on the grounds of Kalos Gardens. The benefits of building your home on a large sect of land filled with nothing but nature and fauna, she knew she had to take advantage of. Immediately stepping outside her home allowed her to breathe again, but she couldnโ€™t call it refreshing.

The tree beckoned her every morning and night, and Persephone dutifully answered. She had done so since the fall, giving everything she could to nurse the life left for the good of the other deities, for her children. But what good did that do?

Vรกliโ€™s voice from behind her was of no surprise. The rose bushes on the way to the Tree whispered of silence trailing after her. โ€œToday isnโ€™t a normal day, ฮตฯ…ฮณฮตฮฝฮฎฯ‚.โ€ Persephone hesitated slightly before turning to face Vรกli, scanning him till she was assured he was safe and healthy. โ€œYou didnโ€™t come to the feast. I saved you an apple.โ€

It seemed Persephone didnโ€™t want to talk about whatever made this a strange day, and Vรกli was smart enough to not press the subject. Instead, he nodded at her comment about him not attending the feast, โ€œI like to avoid Hera. Sheโ€™sโ€ฆ she really doesnโ€™t like a lot of her family. And some of them donโ€™t like her. It lights a fire in me that Iโ€™ve worked hard to quell. Thank you for saving me an apple,โ€ He gave her a smile, but couldnโ€™t quell the curiosity he had wondering about whatever had happened. Looking her up and down, she looked alright which pushed the darkest thoughts he had out of his mind. At least he knew she wasnโ€™t physically hurt, at least. โ€œMy father hasnโ€™t responded to my texts, was he at the feast?โ€

Persephone remained quiet for a while, trying to think back to before Macaria and Zagreus crashed through the glass. She had been waiting with Hades at their regular table, discussing their childrenโ€™s first attempt at rejoining divine society in so long. โ€œIf Odin was, it must have been brief.โ€ She was finally able to answer.

There was another pause, her thoughts once again running a mile a minute. โ€œHave you ever questioned your divinity?โ€ Persephone asked, her eyes glued to the tree.

Without hesitation, Vรกli responded. โ€œYes. I was created by my father to extract vengeance. After I finished my task, the mortals told stories about me and worshiped me for it. And now, I live with this curse of a divine gift.โ€™โ€ He paused, thinking about it a little more as he chose his words. โ€œItโ€™s difficult for me to eat the apple every year. I donโ€™t know what I offer people as a mortal, and I donโ€™t even know what the point is. Why do we get to live forever? For the dream of returning to godhood? I donโ€™t know. I donโ€™t think weโ€™re all that special. I think I do it for my dad, I donโ€™t think he could handle it if one of his sons gave up before he can reunite our family.โ€ Though Vรกliโ€™s words were heavy handed, he seemed truthful in what he was saying, like it was something heโ€™d thought about extensively.

After he spoke, Vรกli frowned again. Heโ€™d gotten a little preachy, and even depressing there while he talked about it and he shook his head, โ€œPersephone, what happened?โ€

Persephone wanted to scream at herself for reminding Vรกli of nothing but pain. In her grief she had struck a sore subject for the both of them. Her hand reached out to offer comfort, but it remained stuck in the air between them as Vรกli questioned her in return. For the third time that day, she had to acknowledge the cursed events of the day. โ€œMacaria and Zagreus were killed at the feast.โ€

He didnโ€™t say anything in response, not like there were any words that could be said. Instead of speaking, Vรกli wrapped Persephone in a warm but gentle hug. He held his friend for a few moments, and then released her before he finally spoke. โ€œIโ€™m so sorry. What can I do?โ€ Persephone was a large part of the reason that Vรกli was able to become the ฮตฯ…ฮณฮตฮฝฮฎฯ‚ he was today, and he would have tried to move mountains if she asked him. And then something dawned on him. โ€œDid you say killed? Byโ€ฆ by whom? Was there a fight at the feast?โ€ He should have been there, instead of his petty desire to avoid Hera. Maybe he could have protected them.

Alarm bells quickly started ringing in Persephoneโ€™s head, pulling away from the hug in surprise. If she knew Vรกli the way she claimed she did, she knew that she was speaking to the God of Vengeance, not the ฮตฯ…ฮณฮตฮฝฮฎฯ‚ she was familiar with. Persephone had to push all thoughts of violence and revenge away, clearing her mind before allowing the tendrils of satisfaction to stick like they had that morning against Hati. โ€œI donโ€™t know. Athena is investigating, I trust her wisdom to guide us to their killer. For now, all I can do is grieve and protect Melinoรซ. Iโ€ฆ I canโ€™t let anything happen to her.โ€ Her hand touched her stomach, the ugly thoughts resurfacing again. She closed her eyes but all she could see was their bodies, forcing her to reopen her eyes to stare almost panickedly at the World Tree. โ€œI donโ€™t know what Iโ€™ll do if I see her body like Macaria.โ€

So long as Vรกli drew breath, he wouldnโ€™t allow anything to happen to Melinoรซ, if only to protect Persephone from going through this again. He made a mental note to reach out to Athenaโ€ฆ though she and Vรกli hadnโ€™t gotten along in the past. Maybe they could unite on this issue. โ€œYou wonโ€™t.โ€ Vรกli said in a simple promise. Even without his vigilance, he thought it unlikely another of their kind fell. Everyone would be on high guard, and there surely wouldnโ€™t be anything too adventurous happening in the near future.

โ€œThe boys are doing well. You should come down and see them again sometime.โ€ Vรกli gently changed the subject, trying to move it towardโ€ฆ anything else. If they kept talking about the violent happenings and the fallout, then Vรกli feared the kind of mood heโ€™d leave in.

The change in topics was a welcome one, allowing Persephone to relax as she engaged in conversation about Vรกliโ€™s boys. It wasnโ€™t long before the distraction became effective, Persephone smiling because of Vรกliโ€™s antics just before landing in Seattle. โ€œYou must have made Ericโ€™s day, letting him be your unwitting hero.โ€ Persephone praised with gentle laughter. โ€œBut please promise me you wonโ€™t scare the poor boy like that again.โ€

โ€œHe was very brave. I just donโ€™t understand why they always want McDonaldโ€™sโ€ฆโ€ Vรกli frowned. He struggled to think of a time when he would choose McDonaldโ€™s when told he could have whatever he wanted for dinner. Why not steak, or lobster? Orโ€ฆ something more exotic? Vรกli had eaten McDonaldโ€™s so many times heโ€™d gotten his order down to a science. โ€œI think heโ€™ll be a good fit for my little family.โ€

A soft smile lingered on her face as she saw the contentedness cross Vรกliโ€™s face. She knew nothing purer than Vรกliโ€™s love for his boys. โ€œI bet James had something to say to Eric once he joined your family.โ€ Persephone eyed Vรกli with a familiar expression, one he would come to know as teasing. โ€œI bet he told Eric all about your special friend.โ€ Vรกli had sweetly confided in her one day about his crush, melting the Goddessโ€™ heart from the sincere way he talked about his friend. James, the oldest child in Vรกliโ€™s Valhalla had come to join Persephone with teasing the God in front of her.

Vรกli couldnโ€™t fight it as a light pink blush rose up in his cheeks. He didnโ€™t like talking about his โ€˜special friend,โ€™ but Persephone was right. James probably would tell the others to expect him to bring a girl home with himโ€ฆ Vรกli didnโ€™t even know the first step in getting a girl to go out for dinner, let alone getting one to go home with him. โ€œHe asked me if I was going to bring her home this time. I donโ€™t even know how Iโ€™d do that. I mean, I donโ€™t even know if she likes me back.โ€ In spite of himself, when Vรกli spoke of the woman he crushed on, he ended up sounding less like the god of vengeance, and more like a love struck puppy.

โ€œHave you tried talking to her first?โ€ Persephone suggested. โ€œStealing her away is old-fashioned, itโ€™s all about building a connection in this era.โ€ She thought back to the first time she had spent in the underworld with Hades, the shy and tentative conversation slowly getting bolder as she had gotten comfortable around him.

Yikes. It felt like Persephone was going for the throat, and all Vรกli could do was try his best not to trip over his words while he spoke. โ€œIโ€™ve talked to her!โ€ He protested. A โ€˜hi, how are you?โ€™ wasnโ€™t the most valuable conversation in the world, but Vรกli definitely felt it counted for something. โ€œItโ€™s not very easy for me to build a connection with someone. Thatโ€™s why I live in the woods, Perse. Got any advice?โ€ Most of the Greeks were people Vรกli would never ask for relationship advice, but having been friends with Persephone for many years now and having watched her relationship with Hades, Vรกli couldnโ€™t think of a better person on the planet to ask.

โ€œFirst of all, it helps to be in the same place as her more often.โ€ Persephone started. โ€œUnless you do what the mortals do these days and try texting her instead. Regardless, start by asking about her day and go from there. If the conversation grows quiet, ask her about something she may like. A connection is built by talking and learning about each other.โ€ Persephone may not have been a goddess of love, but she was more than happy to share what worked for her and Hades.

โ€œRight. Texting. Asking about her day, that makes senseโ€ฆโ€ Idle conversation was hardly Vรกliโ€™s strong suit, and he had half a mind to ask Persephone to coach him through it with an earpiece when the time came, but decided that would be neither stealthy nor attractive. โ€œIs it nice? Having the same person as your partner for so long, I mean. I reckon things must be near perfect for you and Hades both for thing to be soโ€ฆ smooth.โ€ Vรกli sounded undeniably envious as he spoke with a smile on his lips. โ€œI imagine most of the deities are jealous of the two of you. So far as I know, there hasnโ€™t been a relationship thatโ€™s worked out across the pantheons other than the two of you.โ€

โ€œฮตฯ…ฮณฮตฮฝฮฎฯ‚, I assure you there isnโ€™t anything you have to fear.โ€ Persephone knew that affirmations were the best way forward with Vali. Despite being one of the sweetest divines she had the pleasure of knowing, he often struggled with connecting with those he wasnโ€™t familiar with. She only wanted him to see himself the way she saw him.

When it came to talking about her own relationship thoughโ€ฆ Persephone couldnโ€™t help but smile. Hades always brought out a feeling of comfort within her. It was a safe feeling, one that never changed even after their fall. โ€œHades and I are not perfect by any means. The difference is that we always put each other first. Being united gives us our strength.โ€ If she had the chance, she would always gush about her Hades. โ€œYou could be like us too, you know. Put yourself out there, like Hades did. Justโ€ฆ not the kidnapping part.โ€

Vรกli wondered if Persephone really thought he was capable of kidnapping the woman he had a crush on, or if she were just saying the warning as a jab at her husband. He thought about asking, but before he had a chance his phoneโ€™s notification went off. โ€œOh, this is probably my father, give me just a second.โ€ He said, and pulled his phone out, idly scanning the messages. After he finished, he looked up at Persephone. With his brow furrowed in confusion, he spoke. โ€œI think I just got asked out on a date.โ€ He said, with a voice that conveyed the disbelief he was feeling.

He moved the phone so that Persephone could see the series of text messagesโ€ฆ

From: Sunshine

Heyyyyy! Itโ€™s Uzu! Thereโ€™s a party tonight. At Acropolis. You know Hercules and Apolloโ€™s party pad? I was thinking -- we should totally go! You know, with each other!

I mean as a date! You know, like officially or you know whatever. Doesnโ€™t need to be! Itโ€™ll be funnnnnnnn!


โ€œ...what do I say?โ€

Persephone only had to blink twice before she responded. โ€œTell her to meet you here, obviously! You want to go with her, right?โ€

To: Sunshine

I accept. Can you meet me at Persephoneโ€™s?


Lucia moved to the char tab!

๐ฅ๐จ๐œ๐š๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง: The Quad, Music Stall
๐—ถ๐—ป๐˜๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐—ฑ๐˜‚๐—ฐ๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ด: Krista Mรผller & Luciana Cypress

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โ€œCome join us at the music club! Itโ€™s a tune of fun!โ€

Krista Mรผller was a woman on a mission. Despite the cheery grin on her face, there was a lot running through her mind. She scanned the crowds that were attending the fair at the quads, a plentiful turnout yet no one seemed to be even peeking in her direction. Was she a bit too intense? Maybe, but the music club was her pride and joy. It deserved a little bit of crazy.

โ€œAuditions closing in a week, you will note want to miss out!โ€

It couldnโ€™t be the puns.

Her eyes met someoneโ€™s over the crowd.

She moved fast.

โ€œCello! Are you new here?โ€

The blonde girl Krista had approached was even shorter than her. She was dressed in a black turtle neck under a loose white shirt, paired with fitted stiff jeans, but the most interesting thing about her was the pair of gloves that just barely peeked out from under her white shirt. There was a thin layer of sweat marking her forehead, making it all the more strange the number of layers she had on.

โ€œAhโ€ฆ yesโ€ฆ Iโ€™m a freshman.โ€ The shorter blonde responded, seemingly alarmed. She took a hesitant step backwards, putting some more space between her and Krista, leaving the latter surprised.

โ€œMy name is Krista Mรผller. Iโ€™m a junior and a member of the music club. Whatโ€™s your name?โ€

โ€œMy name is Lucia Cypressโ€ฆโ€

Sensing discomfort from Lucia, Kristaโ€™s eyebrows knitted in concern. Immediately going into her โ€™mother gooseโ€™ mode, she gave Lucia a gentle, reassuring smile. โ€œItโ€™s really lovely to meet you, Lucia. I hope your first week at Crystal Peak was fun and comfortable.โ€ Krista wanted to ask about the surname, to find out if Lucia was really a sister or a cousin, but quelling the discomfort took priority. She'll just put a pin on it for later.

โ€œItโ€ฆ was interesting at least. Really hard to get used to.โ€ Lucia responded, making Krista laugh lightly.

โ€œDid you get lost on your way to the quads? I did that when I first got here. Took me almost a month to figure out how to get from my classes to the cafeteria!โ€ She took a moment to allow Lucia to relax further, only continuing when she saw Lucia shyly smile back at Krista. โ€œAre you interested in looking at clubs?โ€

Lucia nodded lightly, โ€œI just arrived so I was just wandering around. I donโ€™t know what Iโ€™m looking forโ€ฆโ€ Lucia admitted, her pale cheeks growing slightly pink.

Krista chuckled softly. โ€œIt can get pretty overwhelming, I get it. How about I show you to my stall first?โ€ She then gestured towards the stall that was decorated with East of Eden merch and other music paraphernalia. โ€œThatโ€™s my stall over there, Iโ€™m from the music club-- though I told you that already. Sorry, I get a bit eager and forget things. Tell me, are you a creative person, Lucia?โ€

Lucia barely seemed to think before she nodded, โ€œI like to think so.โ€ She responded shyly.

Krista clapped her hands once in excitement, โ€œPerfect! Have you heard of East of Edens? Weโ€™re this really awesome symphonic rock type band and our lead singer -- thatโ€™s Eve by the way -- is looking for potential recruits. Come, check out the stall!โ€ Krista beckoned Lucia towards the stall, which now had some more interested faces looking at the merch on display and whispering amongst themselves.

โ€œThereโ€™s five of us in the band right now, six if you include Alyssa, our cool manager, or seven if you include Brad.โ€ Not that Krista remembered him quitting, but he just suddenly stopped turning up one day. Luckily for the band, Zak had finally made his official debut the same time and the rest was history. โ€œItโ€™s a really chill place to be, even if you donโ€™t want to be part of the band.โ€ Kristaโ€™s voice grew slightly louder, allowing her voice to carry to the rest of the interested faces around the stall. โ€œWe host a lot of get-togethers and Dewey -- Professor Martin, our teacher sponsor -- is really awesome as well. Itโ€™s like, all good vibes and we all have a laugh!โ€ Krista picked up two different sheets of paper, handing one to Lucia who was standing on one edge of the crowd before handing the other sheet to the lad standing on the other side. โ€œThereโ€™s two different sign up sheets if youโ€™re interested, one for the music club itself and the other is if youโ€™re interested in auditioning for East of Eden. I recommend at least signing up for the music club and checking us out tonight at Elysium. Test our vibes y'know? We're hosting a party to welcome all the new freshmen and Crestview students with a wicked wild party and youโ€™re all welcome to crash.โ€

Some of the students began signing the music club sheets, not too many but at least there was some interest early into the fair. Krista would count this as a win. But turning to check on Lucia, Krista found her staring at the sheet of paper before handing it off to the person next to her, very carefully making sure that no part of her hands made contact with the person beside her.

โ€œHave you got any questions? Iโ€™m happy to answer anything if you have any hesitations?โ€ Krista offered gently when she approached Lucia. Lucia only took one step backwards, ensuring that there was enough space between them before looking around the fair.

โ€œIโ€™mโ€ฆ really sorry to waste your time butโ€ฆ I donโ€™t play music. I like to paint.โ€ The platinum blonde admitted. There was a small pause before Lucia added, โ€œDo you know where I can find the art club? Thatโ€ฆ might me more my styleโ€ฆโ€

Rule #1 of recruiting, always ask if they're interested in what you're offering.

โ€œSure, ah, itโ€™s a couple stalls down that way. Youโ€™ll know it when you see it, they have painted splattered posters and examples of what current members have made last year up next to the stall.โ€ Krista laughed, though she couldnโ€™t avoid the awkward feeling anymore. โ€œIโ€™m sorry, I shouldโ€™ve asked what kind of creative you are. Itโ€™s okay though, the art club will take care of you just as well!โ€

โ€œAgain, Iโ€™m really sorry too, I really hope I didnโ€™t upset anybody-โ€

โ€œNonsense! Itโ€™s okay, but please do come to the party later in the evening. Itโ€™s a good time to connect with people and who knows, maybe youโ€™ll enjoy our band?โ€ Krista quickly waved off Luciaโ€™s concerns with a bright smile, the old surname pin Krista made in her head long forgotten.

โ€œOkay, Iโ€™ll be there. Thank you, Krista, I'll see you later.โ€ With her worries adequately squashed, Lucia left the music stall to follow the direction towards the art stalls, leaving Krista to handle the other remaining students still interested in the music club.


Mithra moved to the char tab!

๐–œ ๐–Š ๐–‘ ๐–ˆ ๐–” ๐–’ ๐–Š ๐–• ๐–† ๐–— ๐–™ ๐–ž

location: Arriving for the party at the Acropolis
interactions: Coco, Eros & Xลchi
mentions: Acropolis Crew



โ€œMaitea! Look here!โ€

โ€œTurn this way!โ€

โ€œIs it true that youโ€™re dating your co-star?โ€


โ€œOh my god I love you!โ€


The screams were endless. The chaos a blur amongst the crowd. Some were leeches hoping to take a picture, others trying to sell the next big story on the likes of US Weekly. Some were regular mortals, swept up in the hubbub of witnessing a celebrity with their own eyes. Xลchiquetzal gave her crowd a practiced smile.

It had been her who tipped off the media of her upcoming presence at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, her flight from LA long enough for the paparazzi to set up camp right by arrivals. Turning to the last person who declared their love for her, she leaned slightly into the stranger to pose for a selfie with her devoted fan, giving the camera a sweet smile and wink before being ushered away by security.

The easy smile remained on Xลchiquetzalโ€™s face until the doors of her black Range Rover Evoque closed, hiding her from the crowd outside. Only then her mask slipped, leaning into the comfortable leather seats for only a second before she called out.

โ€œAlright, take me home.โ€ Her driver nodded at her from the rear mirror before following her command wordlessly. The luncheon was likely long finished by now, the twinkling stars painting the pink skies like little freckles on delicate skin. She contemplated changing her destination to the Jade Jaguar to surprise her mother, but the thought escaped her when she looked out her window, a familiar figure meandering on the side of the road.

โ€œNo fucking way- STOP THE CAR!โ€ Xลchiquetzal shouted, her driver slamming on the breaks in reaction. Xลchi barely waited for the car before she rolled down her tinted windows, pushing her head out the window to gaze upon the woman carefully. โ€œCoco? Is that you?!โ€

Comus was content waltzing down the street dressed in garb commandeered from the mortals she scared away. Thankfully the fountain in the park was filled with water for her to wash the filth and grime from her body, cold though it was.

She was intrigued and amazed at the sights of the world around her, no longer was she among the Golden Age, nor was she still in Italy - that much was evident in the languages spoken around her. Though she was able to gather some latin roots here and there no one seemed to speak the beautiful language itself. 'Such strange creatures they are,' she found herself thinking, eyes twinkling with the fire lights surrounding the buildings she passed, both big and small.

A large black carriage of sorts pulled up beside her as she skipped her way through town, a window down and a head of hair popped out knowing her name. At a quick glance her eyes gleamed on mirth, "Xลchi?! ฮ•ฮฏฯƒฮฑฮน ฮตฯƒฯ! ฮ ฮฟฯ ฮฎฯƒฮฑฯƒฯ„ฮฑฮฝ; ฮ ฮฟฯ ฮญฯ‡ฯ‰ ฯ€ฮฌฮตฮน; ฮคฮน ฮตฮฏฮฝฮฑฮน ฮฑฯ…ฯ„ฯŒ ฯ„ฮฟ ฮผฮญฯฮฟฯ‚; ฮ ฮตฮนฮฝฮฌฯ‰ ฮญฯ‡ฮตฮนฯ‚ ฯ†ฮฑฮณฮทฯ„ฯŒ?" Her grecian language was coming out in full force but she couldn't be blamed when most of her life on earth was spent in some nightmare fueled slumber. Didn't have any time to pick up the newest languages of the world. It didn't stop the agent of chaos from running up to the window and throwing her arms through the open window and around the beautiful goddess, squeezing her tightly afraid it was all still a terrible dream.

The Aztec Goddess squealed in happiness, taking Coco into her arms in what could be argued as the worldโ€™s most uncomfortable hug. The ramble of Greek spilling from Cocoโ€™s lips made no sense to Xลchi, but the excitable greeting helped with the context. โ€œYouโ€™ve been gone for so long, I havenโ€™t seen you for millenia! And this is how you show up, looking like a street rat?โ€ Not on Xลchiโ€™s watch. โ€œCome in, get in the car. We have so much to catch up on!โ€

It didn't take being told twice for the dark haired beauty to comply and hop into the large contraption with her long standing friend. If anything Comus was excited for what the rest of this night would bring.

After sitting beside the Aztec for what seemed like ages, when in reality it was just a few moments, Coco began asking questions about the wonderous world she had woken up to. "What is this contraption? How long have I been gone?" Her English was beginning to figure itself out the more she spoke, especially since it was something Xลchi called to her with. Though, it was a lot different from the last time she had heard and used it. So strange to come back to such a changed environment.

It made her wonder about everyone else. Clearly they didn't all sleep as she had. Were they still around? Had any died simply because they felt like it? 'Did someone manage to kill one of them?' her mind was running a mile a minute, only coming to an abrupt stop at her latest thought. An audible gasp spilling from her.

Finally her eyes focused back on her friend beside her, no longer glassy and far away as she was lost in her own world. Voices ushering themselves off back to the dark corners of her mind allowing for listening ears to take a turn in the driver's seat.

In the meantime, Xลchi ordered her driver to make haste back home, there was a fashion emergency awaiting them and Xลchi couldnโ€™t stand seeing Coco look so shabby beside her. โ€œI wasnโ€™t lying when I said you were gone for a long while. It is the year 2022, the Festival started today.โ€ Right on time for Coco to wake up then. โ€œAnd this โ€˜contraptionโ€™ is a car. Where were you all this time? Nobody has seen you take the ambrosia, how are you alive?โ€ Something wasnโ€™t sitting right with Xลchi, it was like Coco had slept while the world turned without her.

Luckily the airport wasnโ€™t a far journey from Xลchiโ€™s home, so the Goddess was able to usher Coco inside. โ€œThe shower is here, my closet is yours. Choose wisely, weโ€™re heading to Acropolis to see Eros.โ€

Upon entering the lavish home of her dear friend Coco was star struck. She admired everything she passed, running her fingers over the surfaces of things, before her attention was pulled elsewhere. Upon hearing Eros' name the mischievous one grinned and giggled before skipping into the bathroom to figure out how to work the knobs of the shower.

After it was turned on, many attempts to get it right only resulted in Xลchi having to step in to help, she nearly melted down the drain below her bare feet. The feeling of water rushing over felt cleansing, ridding her if the stickiness of sweat that covered her like a second skin. Of the dryness of thatโ€ฆ chamber she was bound in for so long.

It was strange, surreal even, the long sleep she had found herself in. Well, she hadn't realized what it was at the time. But after speaking with Xลchi, through her spacious powder room, about what has happened in the world without her, it was the only thing that made sense. Why else would she have missed the last few hundred years or so? Definitely not something she did on purpose. Why would she willingly miss out on all the potential chaos and debauchery? The idea made her sick.

Once the grime and grit were washed from her body it didnโ€™t take Comus long to find the enormous closet filled to the rafters with cloth of varying colors and textures. Her eyes aglow with the excitement of getting to choose something from the beautyโ€™s own personal collection. She called out from the maze that was her closet, โ€œAre you sure I can have one?โ€ Though she knew the answer regardless.

For her long time friend? โ€œEverything in that closet is yours, noyollo icniuh.โ€ There has been far too much that Coco missed out on. The Goddess had mentioned to Xลchi that she had been asleep, the chamber she rested in freezing her in place until now. Perhaps Comus' awakening was a sign that chaos was incoming. The thought of chaos was absolutely thrilling knowing that her boredom will be quelled.

Xลchi and Comus shared the title as Gods of excess, and many of their initial gatherings were spent playing and partying with other Gods and mortals alike. With Comus back, Xลchi felt like the party could truly begin again. But for that, they had to get to the biggest party hotspot first.

โ€œYouโ€™ll enjoy Acropolis, Coco. It is a haven built for the likes of us. Xลchi told Comus, putting the final touches on her makeup and outfit, refreshed from traveling at the prospect of having a party. โ€œIt is the perfect place to make your debut after sleeping for so long.โ€

Stepping out of the luxurious wardrobe, a wicked smile plastered across her face, the goddess of revelry and anarchy struck a pose against the doorframe, โ€œThen we shouldnโ€™t keep them waiting~!โ€

โœฆโœฆโœฆโœฆโœฆโœฆโœฆโœฆโœฆโœฆโœฆโœฆโœฆ


Upon arriving at Casa de Acropolis, more information had been divulged to the now woken goddess. Not only had she missed centuries of new inventions and fun new ways to cause chaos, a different type of chaos; one of death, recently struck the first day of the Festival just moments before her supposed awakening. Suspicious to say the least, but Comus wasnโ€™t concerned about that. Truthfully, the connection never crossed her mind. She wasnโ€™t one for searching for a deeper meaning in the world around her, too focused on making the most of the here and now.

Which just happened to place them on the doorstep of the infamous party house, run and owned by the frat boys of the Greek pantheon themselves; Hercules and Apollo. Seeing as their car was placed haphazardly in the front, Xลchiโ€™s driver had to swerve in order to not hit it - a bummer in Cocoโ€™s eyes - it was clear that they were home. Though from what she had heard about this place the silence stemming from the mansion was a little off putting.

โ€œSo much for party,โ€ she pouted and kicked in the door, voice carrying through the seemingly empty and silent home, โ€œฮฉ ฯฮต ฮณฮฑฮผฯŽฯ„ฮฟ! ฮ ฮฟฯ ฮตฮฏฯƒฮฑฮน?!โ€

The Greek god of love, who had been meandering lazily out of his room, arm slung round the dainty shoulders of some mortal, suddenly stopped when he heard an oh so familiar voice. Practically, and in his defence entirely accidentally, pushing the poor girl over, he ran to the top of the staircase. Hands resting against the bannister, he leant over, it being a miracle that he didn't fall. Eyes, emerald and bright, widened in joy at the sight before him.

Unable to wait any longer, Eros bounded down the stairs, before sweeping Coco off her feet and swinging her around in a wide, and thoroughly unnecessary, circle. "Comus ฯฮต ฯฮฌฯ„ฯƒฮฑ, ฯ€ฮฟฯ ฮฎฯƒฮฟฯ…ฮฝ! ฮ•ฮฏฮผฮฑฮน ฯƒฮต ฮฑฯ€ฯŒฮปฯ…ฯ„ฮท ฮฑฯ€ฯŒฮณฮฝฯ‰ฯƒฮท ฯ‡ฯ‰ฯฮฏฯ‚ ฮตฯƒฮญฮฝฮฑ!"

Putting the goddess down, he turned to her companion, slipping back into English as easily as breathing. "Xลchi! Looking beautiful as always." He grabbed her hands, holding them gently. "Tell me. Where did you find her? I hope off causing utter chaos somewhere?" His lips turned up at the corners in a wicked smile as he beamed at his friends.

Xลchi leaned over to give Eros a kiss on either cheek, a formal yet playful greeting amongst the two. โ€œWandering the streets looking terrible, but I fixed our little Chaos up and brought her to the best place where she can thrive.โ€œ Xลchi then took a moment to look around, sighing in disappointment when she didnโ€™t see the typical Acropolis vibes in place. โ€œLooks like you guys need her.โ€

Comus screamed with laughter at being rushed and swung around, the adrenaline of seeing such an old friend bringing a sense of euphoria to her. She placed a kiss of her own to his cheek as he set her down and stood off to the side watching her two closest friends greet each other and nodding along as Xลchi explained the situation. โ€œShe did and you absolutely do,โ€ she kissed Xลchi once more in thanks for helping her so.

Without giving either of them a chance to react her manic eyes landed on the mortal still standing at the banister above them, hair disheveled and tussled. Looking thoroughly satiated but the expression she wore was one of pure annoyance and jealousy. โ€œAw, love~! Donโ€™t be upset. Not many people can satisfy our boy here. Well,โ€ she looked between herself and the Aztec, โ€œWe can.โ€ The smirk that graced the Grecian's face was downright smug, haughty even. The poor girl didn't know what hit her as she huffed and stomped her way down the stairs, roughly pushing past Chaos like it wouldnโ€™t result in her breaking a bone or two. In the blink of an eye Comus had snatched the mortal by the hair and smashed her face into the door before opening it and pushing her outside in a single, smooth motion.

โ€Iโ€™m so glad to be back~!" Dusting her hands as if she had completed some menial task - like taking out the trash. Now, letโ€™s get this started! There isnโ€™t anything fun going on here. Whatโ€™s happened? Someone die~?โ€ She laughed, though it felt so strange coming from her, a sound not heard in hundreds of years even to her own ears. Her dark, albeit annoying, laughter that filled the space around them bounced off walls. A dark omen surely to follow.

"I know, it's all terribly droll." Eros replied idly, his gaze moving away from the door as it swung shut. He did feel bad, she had seemed nice enough, but Comus tended to bring out his mischievous side and he wasn't about to deny the goddess her fun after so long away. "They're all at the festival. Though I do hope my grandmother has murdered someone for eating too many hors d'oeuvre..." He stretched his arms above his head lethargically. It had been a night of little sleep and he'd only strayed from his bed when...Amanda? Ashley? When whomever had insisted they head out for food. "It would at least be something to talk about."

Xลchi barely gave the mortal a glance before Coco dealt with her pride accordingly. Of course it was expected for the little girl to be jealous of Coco and herself, what could a mortal do to compete with two elite Goddesses? She waved lazily at the swinging door, her attention directed to her companions instead. โ€œWhat if I told you there has been a murder, dear love.โ€œ Xลchi answered Eros, as though what she said was a fun bit of gossip (well, considering her companionsโ€ฆ). โ€œA shame that none of us were there to see it, but my mother saw the bodies of the two Greek children of death before she left.โ€œ

Coco's attention had been piqued a d as she whipped her head back towards their friend , her eyes shone with an emotion unfamiliar to her. "Which ones? Was it Melinoรซ? Poor Hadesโ€ฆ well, poor souls who thought they could get away with it," another laugh. It really would be a fantastic death to witness, someone getting what they're due. The idea made her giddy.

"Makes sense why the house would be so silent. Death clings to themโ€ฆ we should fix that. Give 'em something to celebrate and I guess get their minds off of the tragedy," the brunette finished with a roll of her eyes. Waltzing through the expanse that is the Acropolis, Coco banged on counters and cabinets alike trying to get any and all attention on the fact that they were there and ready to party. It wasn't in her nature to have a party for any other reason than just because. But for the circumstances she supposed a distraction is as good as any.

๐–˜ ๐–” ๐–‘ ๐–Ž ๐–‰ ๐–† ๐–— ๐–Ž ๐–™ ๐–ž
๐–˜ ๐–” ๐–‘ ๐–Ž ๐–‰ ๐–† ๐–— ๐–Ž ๐–™ ๐–ž

๐ฅ๐จ๐œ๐š๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง: Hades & Persephone's home
๐ข๐ง๐ญ๐ž๐ซ๐š๐œ๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ: Thor @metanoia, Hades @sly13 & Persephone @Aewin
๐ฆ๐ž๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ: Odin || Heimdall
โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…โ–…


Though the God of Thunder had never met either prince or princess of the underworld, that didnโ€™t mean he didnโ€™t feel some aspect of pain seeing their bodies laid on the floor. The screams alone that filled the halls of the Olympic club from both Melinoe and Persephone had the penetration power that would make any great warrior cry or feel some form of grief. Thor was no exception to this. He never met them, itโ€™s true, but he heard stories about them from Persephone, and part of him had come to know and appreciate the love that they gave her. As a father himself, though itโ€™s been many years since Thor has laid eyes on both Magni and Modi, he couldnโ€™t comprehend the loss this must have on the Greekโ€™s death family.

Over the duration that she had been his pupil, Thor had grown especially close to her. Whether during their lessons or after or before, there was always one constant and that was family. She'd speak highly about her family: her husband, her kids, Melinoe, Zagreus, and Macaria. Thor had never met them personally, as he never had any reason to past the many stories he heard about them from their mother's lips and the supportive words she spoke about them.

After the brief, yet noteworthy display of heartbreak and anguish that Persephone displayed and she was left with her husband and being guided out of the club by Hati, Thor made his exit too. There wasnโ€™t anything he could do at this point. He wasnโ€™t an investigator like Athena, his brother, Heimdall, or any of the other gods who might be a detective. Heโ€™d only get in the way, and of course, there was the matter of his heart hurting for Persephone.

Thor was still in a rough shape, that much was true. His wound was still healing. His shoulder hurt, but it didnโ€™t matter to him as much. Sekhmet, before she ditched him, had done all that she could. HIs main focus was to check on his friend. So thatโ€™s what he did.

Hopping into his truck, Thor drove across town. In the hindsight of everything that was happening, he was thankful that Persephone had occasionally invited him over to her home. Or sometimes sheโ€™d ask if her lessons could be carried out at her home. Thor didnโ€™t mind because it still meant he was getting paid and sometimes a change of scenery was good for the soul and focus. The drive itself was long.

Going across Seattle, using the highways and street roads, one thing Thor would never grow tired of was the environment that Persephoneโ€™s home was in. All natural forest, it reminded him vastly of the forests of Asgard. How green and majestic they were. There was nothing quite like it and the rejuvenating feeling it filled you up with.

โ€œAnd there it is,โ€ he noted, coming to a stop at the drive way. Still as beautiful as it was the first time he came here. Thor did have a moment of apprehension, though. It was mostly about her husband. Hades, King of the Underworld. It was, if nothing else, intimidating for Thor and he seldom was intimidated.Shaking it off, he exited his truck that sat off to the side and made the trek up and gave the door a few knocks, standing and waiting in long silence.

โ€œJust make sure they're here alright. I wish it was under different circumstances but we don't have time for the normal routine.โ€ Hades paused for a second waiting for the confirmation from the other end of the line before ending the call and placing the phone in his pocket. Hades turned to look at a small picture frame on the shelf just above the fireplace. It was old by the standards of mortals he supposed but it felt like only yesterday to him. It was one of the few occasions the whole family had gotten together for a picture. Seeing their smiles brought back the raging anger that took all his control to keep a lid on top of. โ€œWhat I wouldn't do to see those smiles one last time.โ€

Knock Knock Knock

The sounds of knocking shook him from his thoughts as he made his way to the door. Hades slowly opened the door revealing the norse god before him. Hades stared intently at the man before him looking him up and down as if he was judging him before allowing him entry into their home. Hades didn't have any strong feelings one way or another about the norse but Thor had shown his wife kindness and thus earned himself a small pass from the judgment of lord of the underworld.

Almost instantly Hades demeanor softened ever so slightly as he welcomed the Thunder god through his doors. โ€œThor Odinson, welcome to our humble home.โ€ Hades stepped aside allowing him to enter. โ€œPlease join us in the front room, Persephone will be with us shortly.โ€

โ€œWho is that? Oh!โ€ Like she was summoned, Persephone greeted Thor and Hades at the entrance hall, a tray in her hand with a steaming tea pot, mugs and some biscuit assortments. Persephone looked at Thor in surprise before ushering him further inside the best she could with busy hands.

When seated in their living room, Persephone started pouring tea for Hades. โ€œWould you like some tea, Thor? Iโ€™ve brewed us some lavender and chamomile tea.โ€

When Thor took his seat, opposite of the couple, of course, because he may have been a Norse, but he wasnโ€™t a caveman. He knew how manners worked. โ€œYeah, sure that sounds nice.โ€ Thor always did like the tea that Persephone brewed up even if he wasnโ€™t much of a tea God himself. As she poured it, he kept dividing his occasional gaze between both Persephone and Hades.โ€I didnโ€™t mean to drop by unannounced. I imagine withโ€ฆeverything, the last thing you wanted was someone showing up, but I was concerned for you, Persephone. And you as well, Hades. I wanted to see how you were holding up.โ€

Hades allowed himself to relax ever so slightly as he took his seat beside his wife. As the thunder god spoke Hades watched intently in between sips of his tea. Though he had a feeling he could trust Thor it was simply in his nature to be skeptical of most everyone. โ€œWell I appreciate you stopping by to check on us. Now more than ever it's important to have friends close by.โ€

Persephone gave Thor a watery smile, grateful for a friend like him. Persephone had chosen to contact Thor to join his dojo out of boredom one day, hoping to spend some hours of the day away from the world tree. Learning self defense never hurt anybody, and Persephone had hoped that she could utilize whatever she had learnt to protect her family. Unfortunately, the choice was stolen from her. โ€œThank you, Thor. I appreciate your visit too, it helps to know we have support from other pantheons.โ€ While Persephone did not want to dwell upon it, but the death of her children meant that there was a way to kill other Gods as well. Danger loomed over them all where not even ambrosia was enough to save them.

With a smile, Thor nodded, taking a small sip of the surprisingly delicious tea that Persephone had brewed for the three of them. It was true, Thorcould understand the idea of what they were literally experiencing. Since the fall, he had not heard from nor been aware of his two sonsโ€™ survival, whether Magni or Modi were alive or dead. That in itself, that he could understand and thatโ€™s what pained him the most: to see anyone suffer through that kind of pain -- real or not -- hurt his soul.

He could see the pain in their eyes. Hades was better at hiding it, but no man, god, or primordial being could hide that level of sorrow, so Thor knew what he must do right now was to shift the tone just a little bit. โ€œThis tea is delicious by the way. The lavender really highlights the chamomile. And the biscuits are delicious. Theyโ€™re so buttery!โ€ Even though he wanted to help either her or Hades smile, Thor was genuine. He found the mix of the flavors of tea and the biscuits to be a great combination, despite not being the kind of God that ate anything like it on the regular. He was more of a take-out kind of God.

Hades smirked slightly at the thunder gods' antics before his face returned to his normal stoic one. He could appreciate the efforts Thor was pouring forth to make the situation even the slightest bit more comfortable. It was never easy for anyone to be in such a situation, nevertheless being forced to stare someone such as himself down. โ€œPersephone has always had a way with tea brewing.โ€ Hades said, placing a hand on top of his wifes and looking at her lovingly. โ€œI myself am hopeless when it comes to such skills.โ€ As soon as Hades finished speaking an older woman stepped into the room.

โ€œExcuse me Mr. Blackwell but some of your investors have arrived.โ€

โ€œAh yes, thank you very much Grace.โ€ After she left Hades turned to his wife and placed a kiss on her cheek while giving her hand one last squeeze before standing. โ€œWell I suppose business never stops, does it? It was a pleasure meeting you Mr. Odinson.โ€ After finishing his farewell Hades turned to leave the leave room where three finely dressed men had appeared and were now waiting for him. The first man was in his late 40โ€™s, the man beside him was clearly in his 50โ€™s to 60โ€™s with a full head of white hair. The last one was a much younger man who could only be in his 20's, possibly 30โ€™s at most. โ€œRight this way gentlemen.โ€ Hades said as he led them down the hall and out of view.

Persephone watched her husband disappear down the hall, a soft smile left on her face after his compliment. โ€œI donโ€™t know what I would do without Hades either.โ€ She admitted to Thor, somewhat lost in her own thoughts. โ€œI wouldnโ€™t be sitting here alive, right now, if it werenโ€™t for him.โ€ To Persephone, her children were everything. Her family was everything. โ€œI wish I had the chance to say the same to my Zagreus and Macaria. Tell them I love them.โ€ Finally Persephone looked at Thor, really taking in his features carefully.

โ€œEven if youโ€™re not close, I hope you can tell your family that you love them. Never take the ones you love for granted.โ€ Persephone had to learn that the hard way, for a second time.

Thor couldnโ€™t help himself from glancing at the investors that passed by the hallway. His eyes counted three of them. It was difficult, even now, for Thor to shut off his naturally curious self. Be it at a friendโ€™s house and comforting them or on the streets of Belltown as The Blue Crusader, he could never truly shut it off. In the back of his mind, he wondered what Hades did. Must be a solid job to afford a place like this fancy house. Definitely made his small studio apartment look like an ant in comparison.

He took a sip of his tea, refocusing on the real reason he was here and what, honestly, mattered the most. As she talked about Hades and her children and just about family in general, Thor couldnโ€™t say he had the same loving relationship with his own. Heimdall was probably the only one of his family he held in any favorable light and even then, that relationship was strained at best. โ€œI wish it was that easy, Persephone, I really do. My familyโ€ฆthereโ€™s so much to unpack there that I wouldnโ€™t even know where to begin, you know?โ€ He stared down into the cup in his hands, thinking about the last time he didnโ€™t have a loathing feeling for his father. Heimdall, as less of a pain in the ass as he is in comparison, was a kissass. And Thor just couldnโ€™t ignore that, or maybe he refused to?

Persephone took a sip of her tea as she listened to Thor. โ€œPerhaps now is the time to consider your relationships carefully, whether holding onto the past is such a good idea.โ€ Persephone knew it was easier said than done, she had her own grudges she was fighting. Demeter came to mind, a loving mother that tore the world looking for her but Persephone never appreciated the effort in the past. Her heavy heart sank some more as she realized the pain she put her own mother through, dismissing her as an overbearing parent only so Persephone could enjoy the taste of freedom offered by Hades. โ€œI apologise for meddling, my thoughts are all over the place.โ€

Thor shook his head. โ€œNo need to apologize. Itโ€™s quite alright.โ€ The truth was Persephone was absolutely right in everything she said - the God of Thunder knew that much. He might not be ready to do what she said quite yet, but that didnโ€™t mean he couldnโ€™t see that what she said was right.

Between his brothers and his father, Thor had avoided them for so long. He neglected everything that Odin tried to do in terms of reaching out, refusing to even accept his olive branches. For decades, Thor tried to justify it by what happened in the past, but how long could he truly keep putting it off? How long could he justify not at least hearing Odin out? Eventually he would have to be the honorable god he always professed that he was and at least give Odin a chance to either surprise him or prove him right that he always will be swine.

โ€œYou know whatโ€™s hilarious? I came here to check up on you, but here you are doing that very thing for me. Maybe the student has surpassed the teacher.โ€ He chuckled at the thought.

Persephone laughed alongside Thor, allowing the bizarreness of their situation amuse her for a little bit. โ€œEverybody needs someone to look out for them. Iโ€™m glad I have you to turn to. And I hope to be a good friend in return.โ€ She paused for a moment, the quiet comfortable between the two of them. Another thought lingered in her mind, a worry that felt selfish to even consider above her grief. โ€œI had been looking forward to the luncheon for so long. It was the first in a while that Zagreus and Macaria decided to attend. I wanted my family in one place, so I could have broken the news to all at once.โ€

โ€œNews?โ€ Thor muttered. He studied her face, the way her expressions changed from content joy to something that made him think she was bothered by something.

What was once meant to be a golden opportunity for bonding and delight now tainted by darkness and blood. โ€œIโ€™m with child. Hadesโ€ฆ he doesnโ€™t know yet. I wanted to tell them all together, to celebrate together. Nowโ€ฆ I donโ€™t know what to do anymore.โ€

The God of Thunder stood there, still looking at Persephone, trying to process what she just confessed to him and not her husband. That alone was something worth taking a moment or two to digest. Did it speak to the level of comfort their friendship had? Perhaps, but Thor also couldnโ€™t stop his mind from going to a place of even greater concern for her. A day that was supposed to be filled with cheer was now one they would never forget.

โ€œPersephone..โ€ Thor spoke until he got her attention, โ€œIโ€™m so sorry. For everything.โ€ Though he sat across from her, Thor moved to the same couch that she sat on, sitting next to his friend, and grabbed her hand, squeezing it just slightly. โ€œI donโ€™t know what you should do, but if you ever need anything, I promise as your friend and your teacher, Iโ€™ll do anything I can to help. Should you wish to tell Hades and want support, Iโ€™ll be there in the hour! I promise youโ€™re not alone in any sense.โ€

It was like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders. She hadnโ€™t meant to reveal everything to Thor, especially in such a sudden manner. His support meant the world to Persephone, a friend in her corner in a time she felt so lost and unsure. โ€œThank you, Thor. I didnโ€™t expect you to have the answers, but your assurance alone means so much to me.โ€ She spoke sincerely, giving him a tired smile. Exhaustion was starting to set in after such a trying day - or maybe it was the double dose of calming tea she had brewed that she could blame - but she slumped forward with her elbows on her knees holding up her head. โ€œThank you, really.โ€ She repeated, unable to say much more.

โ€œYou never have to thank me. Youโ€™re my friend and favorite student.โ€ Of course he wished he could do more to help her, but perhaps this was where he tagged out and let her husband, or that friendly butler take over. At the end of the day, her knowing that no matter the time of day or where he might be or what state he might be in (especially given how reckless heโ€™s been as of late at night) that Thor would drop everything to be there for her was enough to not fret over.

Thor stood up, offering a hand for a tired Persephone. โ€œI think itโ€™s time I take my leave. Itโ€™s a long drive back into town, but will you be okay? I can stay a bit longer if you need me to.โ€

Persephone lifted her head to look at Thor, shaking her head in refusal. โ€œI have taken more than enough of your time. Thank you again, for listening.โ€ The thanks came out without her thinking, making Persephone offer Thor a sheepish smile. Persephone then stood up, giving Thor one last hug before seeing him to the door. With Thorโ€™s assurance still ringing in her head, she waved her friend goodbye with renewed morale.



๐ฐ๐ก๐š๐ญ ๐ข๐ฌ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐ž๐ฆ๐ž๐ซ๐ ๐ž๐ง๐œ๐ฒ?

๐‹๐จ๐œ๐š๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง: ๐”๐– ๐Œ๐ž๐๐ข๐œ๐š๐ฅ ๐‚๐ž๐ง๐ญ๐ž๐ซ
๐ข๐ง๐ญ๐ž๐ซ๐š๐œ๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ: Isabel, Ares @Legion02 & Sekhmet @Aewin

โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”
โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”โ”

Perhaps it truly had been a mistake to attend the luncheon.

Sweet Macaria, her only ally in a disturbed world. The only Goddess that Sekhmet bonded with on another, a deeper level. The closest thing to a best friend the Egyptian goddess had. Had. Macaria, who had been kind and accepting, the one who supported Sekhmet through her darkest years, now no longer counted amongst the living.

Had.

Tearing her eyes from Macaria to gaze upon the second body hurt just as much. Whispers around her named him Zagreus, but she only knew him as another forgotten name; as the beautiful mortal with so much life in him. Sekhmet choked on her spit, climbing from her seat beside Thor to stagger outside. The smell of blood was too much; it called to her.

She knew she couldnโ€™t remain at the festival any longer in this state. Somehow Sekhmet managed to take her leave, practically throwing herself into her car in her haste to get away from the scene. As she pulled out, her hand dipped into her pocket to pull out her phone and ring the only number that frequented her call history besides Macaria.

The phone rang twice before she heard a familiar voice through the line - a sweet nurse on phone duty sounding infinitely as tired as Sekhmet felt. โ€œIโ€™m going to be early for my shift. Iโ€™m already on the way.โ€ She was met with a pause and shuffling of paper on the other line.

โ€œBut you still have six hours-โ€

โ€œDonโ€™t care, Iโ€™ll work for free if I have to. Just get ready for the handover in thirty.โ€ Sekhmet clicked the hangup button before tossing the device to the back seat. Any arguments the nurse would have could wait till she arrived. Not that it mattered, there was always a shortage of help in the wards. Nobody would complain about having the extra hand.

The immediate distraction that driving to work provided was welcome. Sekhmet parked in her usual bay before pulling out a fresh set of clothes. The last thing she needed was for people to question the club attire in the staff room.

When Sekhmet finally arrived at the emergency unit, she felt her grief go numb as though someone else was controlling her. She checked the nurseโ€™s station for the list of active cases, anticipating her first case of the shift to be the one to make her forget the events of the day.

Time passed as it always did. People came and left, one way or another.

At night the paramedics rolled in another victim into Sekhmetโ€™s emergency unit. There was no real haste to it. The wound was patched and the victim wouldnโ€™t be bleeding out any time soon. It was a simple stab wound. The victim herself wasnโ€™t too thrilled about that too. She was just frowning as the gurney she was on was wheeled in.

โ€œFemale, 27, stabbed in the left thigh with glass. No shards from what we could see. Hasnโ€™t consumed alcohol or drugs. Allegedly.โ€ One of the paramedics said as he passed Sekhmet and handed her the quick notes they had taken. It was mostly about her physical condition and status. She was a remarkably healthy woman.

โ€œI havenโ€™t!โ€ Isabel was quick to retort. The paramedics didnโ€™t acknowledge her complaints as they rolled her into one of the rooms.

Before Sekhmet could get into the room the paramedic quickly stopped her. โ€œSheโ€™s an angry one.โ€ He warned.

โ€œShe wonโ€™t be the first or only in this ward,โ€ Sekhmet deadpanned. She took the notes and gave it a cursory glance but most of her attention was on the woman in front of her. The stab wound had been dealt with by the paramedics, but they couldnโ€™t take any risks. Even the slightest nick to the femoral artery would spell a bloody end for the mortal.

The paramedics left the women in the ward, so Sekhmet started her usual routine. โ€œI need to follow standard procedure, need to make sure youโ€™re not dying.โ€ Sekhmet warned. โ€œYouโ€™ll need an MRI scan to see if there is any damage to your muscle tissue, and some blood tests to ensure there are no internal bleeds. But firstโ€ฆโ€ The notes mentioned a regular blood pressure but things could change very quickly at the wards. Luckily the patient - Isabel Markov according to the notes - hadnโ€™t been stitched prior to admission, making things slightly easier. โ€œCan you tell me if you are hurting anywhere else?โ€

โ€œDid you just really ask me that?โ€ Isabel said with a raised eyebrow but she then quickly let out a sigh and fell back into the bed she was placed on. โ€œMy leg hurts like hell-โ€œ She had refused any painkillers in the ambulance. โ€œ-but otherwise Iโ€™m feeling perfectly fine. Despite what those guys seemed to insinuate I really didnโ€™t take any drugs or alcohol. Even though I could really use a drink.โ€ Not that she was going to get one. In between antibiotics and god knows what else sheโ€™d have to take she wouldnโ€™t be allowed to touch booze for two months. That was far too long to process the fact that she had some sort of crazy, psycho, killer sister.

As she laid down she did turn her head towards her doctor. โ€œHeyโ€ฆ youโ€™re not going to call my emergency contact for this right? Really itโ€™s just a little scratch. It just looks bad I think. Lots of blood but that doesnโ€™t mean anything. Right?โ€ There was just a slight hint of desperation in her elsewise fairly neutral tone. She didnโ€™t want her dad to know she got stabbed. It would create too many questions and there was far too much going on already for her to tangle him up now with this as well.

Sekhmet considered her options, pursing her lips in thought. โ€œCan you tell me about the incident? Obviously this isnโ€™t self-inflicted.โ€ She probed instead, before sighing. Angry patients donโ€™t like being questioned and Sekhmet wasnโ€™t in the mood to be annoyed. โ€œI canโ€™t report anything you donโ€™t want me to, but I will need to write up an incident report without your personal details if you donโ€™t want the police or your contact involved.โ€ Perhaps a little comforting, perhaps not. Ms Markov was a grown adult, and if her reports came back normal and nothing developed overnight thenโ€ฆ Sekhmet had no choice but to follow her patientโ€™s wishes. Her eyes caught nail wounds on Isabelโ€™s hands that had been cleaned and disinfected by the paramedics on the way, confirming Sekhmetโ€™s suspicions that Isabel had been under stress up until recently. โ€œI wonโ€™t call your emergency contact, but I may need to should something happen overnight.โ€

Isabel let out a sigh of relief when she heard her emergency contact wouldnโ€™t be called. The last thing she needed was for her dad to come rushing in. Isa had far too many questions for him right now to meet him on such unequal ground. She lifted her hands up meekly. The adrenaline was already leaving her. Her body began to feel sore from the fighting. โ€œI didnโ€™t do this myself this time.โ€ She quipped as she felt hazy for a second. The second she heard herself say it she snapped out of it. She pulled herself up to sit upright in the bed. It hurt but she would withstand it. โ€œRight, report.โ€ She quickly changed subject as she tried to appear more awake. โ€œItโ€™s a weird story. I just came into my room and there was someโ€ฆ stranger standing there. One thing led to another and we got into a fight.โ€ She left out the fact that said stranger was some highly trained and blood curdling savage fighter. And that she was her sister in at least some capacity. The cops didnโ€™t need to know that. โ€œI wouldโ€™ve won if she didnโ€™t stab me! Right then security came in. After that things are a bit.. fuzzy.โ€ She quickly added. She wouldโ€™ve won if that stranger hadnโ€™t stabbed her. She was sure of that! She always won. She always had to win.

After she said her story she knew she couldnโ€™t hold the upright position on the bed. Slowly she let her fall back again. She felt a bit sleepy. That was probably the blood loss. Nothing she couldnโ€™t fight with some will power. โ€œNot really the five star hotel suite bed I was hoping to sleep in tonight, but I guess there are worse places to have to stay at night.โ€ She said with a faint smile. Then she looked back at Doctor Ayad. โ€œIโ€™ll be alright, right doctor?โ€

Isabelโ€™s wavering speech and declining consciousness was alarming for Sekhmet, and the swelling around her thigh seemed to be getting worse despite the bandages. Something told her that she didnโ€™t have much time to demand a scan from the radiology department before Isabelโ€™s injuries would turn critical. Her hand hovered over the pressured bandage, her godly essence probing at the wound to seek for internal damage.

There, roughly half an inch of glass embedded deep into her thigh and dangerously close to the femoral artery. As Sekhmet pressed the emergency call button beside Isabelโ€™s bed, she kept her hand against Isabelโ€™s thigh to maintain pressure. โ€œMs Markov, we need to retrieve this glass shard still in your thigh. Youโ€™ll be fine, but because youโ€™ll be under anesthetic I will have no choice but to call your emergency contact.โ€ Sekhmet warned as doctors rushed into Isabelโ€™s ward.

โ€œThereโ€™s swelling of the thigh, I can feel an object still embedded. Suspected aneurysm. Send her to the OT, it needs retrieval and stitches.โ€ Sekhmet barked orders as assistants flooded the room. She turned back to Isabel one more time, giving her arm an assuring squeeze. โ€œYouโ€™re in safe hands, Ms Markov. Leave it to us.โ€

โ€œWait what?โ€ Isabel jolted up when she heard she had to be put under, but was immediately pushed down again by a nurse. โ€œDonโ€™t call him! Really you shouldnโ€™t-โ€œ Her eyes darted around. It was happening fast, but Isabel was used to these kinds of situations. When something escalates this fast all you can really do is go with the flow. She swallowed her last words of protest. Instead grabbed her doctorโ€™s arm and looked her straight in the eyes. โ€œDo me a favor alright. When he comes in, tell him I know about my sister.โ€

Sekhmet remained in the ward as Isabelโ€™s bed was wheeled out. There wasnโ€™t any time for her to worry for the little mortal when there was so much left to do. Sekhmet wasnโ€™t even sure if she wanted to get involved with petty family drama when her own was enough. She followed the team shortly afterwards, maintaining distance as Isabel was prepared for surgery and only left the viewing room when the anesthesiologist walked in.

Duty calls.

At the nurseโ€™s station, she pulled up Isabelโ€™s admission records, allowing the Goddess to quickly pull up the number of her next of kin - Alexander Markov. As expected, Isabel didnโ€™t want her father to get involved and considering the favor sheโ€™d asked of her? Reality television levels of drama could be expected. She dialed the number on the screen and when she heard the call get picked up, Sekhmet got started.

โ€œGood evening, I am Dr. Nadia Ayad from UW medical center. Is this Alexander Markov?โ€

There was a very long pause coming from the other end.

โ€œSekhmet?โ€

โ€œYes, good, so-โ€ It took a moment for Sekhmet to register exactly what she heard from the other side, having been relying on auto-pilot to guide her through the phone call. The voice was unmistaken on the other end, and her face immediately soured. โ€œAres.โ€

It took another moment for Sekhmet to realize exactly why she was on the line in the first place. โ€œYouโ€™re Alexander Markov?โ€

โ€I am. Why are you calling me?โ€ There was just a slight hint of worry in his voice.

Perhaps it was the result of the day Sekhmet had, or perhaps she was always waiting to get one over Ares. Regardless, with everything fitting into place as it was, she was thrilled. โ€œIt appears Isabel Markov is listed here as your daughter, interesting. Is that what youโ€™ve been up to these last-โ€ She paused to read Isabelโ€™s date of birth, โ€œTwenty seven years?โ€

โ€œSekhmet.โ€ There was clear exasperation in his voice. โ€œWhat happened to her?โ€

โ€œLike father, like daughter, Ares. Getting into trouble where she shouldnโ€™t. Mortals are terribly weak, so easy to break. A single stab wound is enough to send them to the gates of deathโ€™s realm.โ€ Sekhmet couldnโ€™t hide the malicious grin any longer, having to turn her body to face the wall so her co-workers couldnโ€™t question her.

Again there was a long pause from the other end.

โ€œItโ€™s good to hear that deep down I am still right about you. Iโ€™ll be there promptly.โ€ After that Sekhmet was met with beeping noise only. Ares had hung up.
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