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Chapter Text

Despite his initial protests at his parents having another child, he was rather excited at the idea of being an older brother. He didn’t really know what to expect, but there was definite excitement buzzing under his skin. He however knew absolutely nothing about babies. He was the youngest in the house, and while babies did die, they didn’t exactly show up as baby shades. He knew a little about being a brother, but didn’t think he wanted the relationship Than and Hypnos had. He wanted to be the best brother there could be.

In his excitement, he couldn’t help but run through the underworld destroying shades with energy he hadn’t felt in awhile. He ran through without a second thought, only stopping when he came across the glade in Elysium where Patroclus and Achilles were waiting. He probably wasn’t supposed to tell anyone, and perhaps his mother had said so, but he trusted them, and they’d find out soon enough.

Patroclus took him in with a raised eyebrow as Zagreus dashed up the stairs, stumbling at the top with a wide grin. There was some blood dried on his shoulder, but otherwise he wasn’t much worse for wear. He didn’t stop, barrelling right into Achilles in a hug that caused a grunt to leave him. He hugged him back after only a moment’s hesitation, letting out a breathless laugh. 

“Hello Lad. Everything alright?”

Zagreus pulled back and immediately started bouncing on his feet. “Everything is wonderful, Sirs.” He was grinning and bouncing, unable to keep the news to himself. “I’m going to be a brother. Isn’t that wonderful? I didn’t think I wanted them to have another child, but it’s been so long.” 

Achilles smiled adoringly as Zagreus continued to bounce and fidget excitedly, “That is wonderful news.”

Zagreus continued on, now pacing, unable to contain his energy, “It is! Oh it’ll be so much fun to show them everything, to have someone to play with. You think I’ll make a good older brother? I’ve never really been a brother.”

“I’m sure you will be a great older brother, Stranger.” Patroclus tracked him with his eyes, his amusement and joy growing at seeing the prince so excited. He moved forward as Zagreus decided to simply fall on the ground, sighing happily. Energy still buzzed around him, but he actually looked content for once. Patroclus moved to sit beside him with Achilles behind. “I’m sure the house will be quite busy with preparations in the coming months.”

“I’ll make sure you don’t get lonely, Sir.” He pauses and stares at the sky that isn’t a sky. “You think there’s something I could do to help? What do babies need? I’ve never even seen one before.”

Achilles answers while Patroclus starts to stroke his hair, attempting to calm him and keep him still. “Well Lad, I’m not sure. Children of Gods are different than mortal children. You certainly were your own case.”

Zagreus looked captivated despite the answer, “What was I like. What do you think I should do? Do I train them like you did me? Can they leave the house? Will Cerberus like them?”

The rapid questions had Achilles chuckling and patting his shoulder, “Well God or not, they will not be able to fight immediately. I wasn’t tasked with training you until you were a bit older. Babies are quite fragile and can’t do much for some time. I’m quite sure Cerberus will love them as he loves you. Perhaps you could show them how to pet him.”

Zagreus hummed happily, “Yeah, I could do that. What else could I do? What do you do with babies if they can’t fight? What can they do?”

Zagreus thankfully was looking at Achilles and not Patroclus who looked like he was trying not to laugh at the Prince. “Not much, Lad. Mostly they eat and sleep for a few years. During that time you must be careful even if they are a God.” 

Zagreus frowned, but there was still excitement in his eyes. “I could… talk them though, yeah? Tell them stories of my adventures. Would they like that?”

Achilles nodded, “I’m sure they would. They won’t be able to respond until they learn to talk, but I’m sure they would love your stories.” 

The frown immediately disappeared and he was grinning like a fool again. “I can do that. I can make sure they’re as happy and loved as anyone.” There was a bittersweet look to his eyes that made Achilles and Patroclus frown in sympathy.

Chapter Text

The next months were spent preparing everything. Zagreus was more than excited when his mother came to him and asked to secure funds for a room for his little sibling. He jumped at the chance, getting diamonds and gemstones until the house contractor could make a room beside his father’s room in the west hall. He trusted them to make it perfect, and was sure if his sibling needed for anything he could buy that as well. 

Once the room was complete he kept himself busy by securing more funds in case they needed anything more, and by switching between going to Elysium to tell Achilles or Patroclus all about what he was doing to prepare and what he would do once they were here, and talking to Nyx about how she raised her children, and what he could do to help.Both were patient as ever in trying to explain children to him, and how patient he would have to be.

Thanatos seemed amused by his excitement for the child, but also seemed to be watching him, like he expected him to suddenly grow bored with this, or something. He couldn’t tell what Than was thinking, and Thanatos refused to explain. 

Megaera of course scoffed at his excitement, but even she helped prepare the house for their newest arrival. She ensured the shades were even more in order the closer it got to the birth so Hades had less to worry about. The parchment pile was much smaller than usual. 

Even Hypnos helped with lists of what needed to get done by everyone. Of course now the lists were all crossed out, and they were all waiting, but Hypnos had also promised Queen Persephone that he would ensure the baby slept when needed.

The day came and despite much worry amongst all of the Chthonic gods the baby was born healthy and alive this time. A beautiful baby girl. Zagreus was ushered into the room by Nyx to see his little sister at last. His father sat on a chair nearby, staring at his mother who held a small bundle in her arms. He elected to ignore his mother to move closer.

“Oh Zagreus. Look. This is your little sister, Melinoë.” Persephone carefully moved back the blanket so he could see what was inside the tiny bundle. 

The baby was small with pale white hair, even more so than his mother’s and a stark contrast to his own. When she blinked open her eyes they were an almost exact match to his except the opposite. He reached forward to touch her and heard a sharp reprimand from beside him, “Be careful boy.” 

He scowled and opened his mouth to retort when his mother beat him to it. “Hades. Leave him be. I’m sure Zagreus will be careful.”

Hades scoffed, but Zagreus elected to ignore him for now, reaching to twirl a piece of her hair. She crossed her eyes to look at it then one of her hands grabbed onto his finger. It wasn’t a strong grip, but it did make him notice her hands had an odd translucence to them, almost like a shade. He gently pulled his finger away, which made a sudden loud cry come from the baby. He winced and shot his eyes to his mother who was soothing her. 

Thankfully before his father could reprimand him, his mother shot him a look. “It’s fine. She’ll do this a lot at first. Don’t worry about it. I’m sure she’ll grow to love you very soon, Zagreus.” 

He smiled in reply, watching his mother calm the little one. He certainly hoped she was right. 

After a moment Thanatos and Hypnos were allowed in to see the child. They didn’t want to overwhelm her, but she would be around all of them a lot, and they’d hardly keep her from family. Thanatos floated over and took a look at her, a rare smile gracing his face. Hypnos for once kept his voice down as he asked, “Would you like me to help her sleep Queen Persephone?”

“Not yet. Perhaps later. Thank you.” She responded. Melinoë had calmed and was now staring at each of the gods in turn, simply taking them in.

They all spent time with her until they were told to get back to work. Achilles was stationed at the door to her room now, specifically to keep shades and any unwelcome guests away from the Princess. He even sent away the Gods if she was sleeping and the Queen didn’t want her disturbed.

Zagreus got very little time with his little sister, and even less where his parents weren’t hovering, waiting for him to mess up, especially his father. The first time he held her, his father had lectured him through the whole thing. He wasn’t supporting her head right. He would upset her by letting her play with his fingers. She was going to get cold. Zagreus did his best, and his mother was soft and encouraging as ever, but the whole experience left him aching in confusing ways that he shoved aside as always.

After that he tried to spend time with her while his father was busy, but his father spent so much time with her, it seemed that even that was fleeting. Something was growing in the pit of his stomach that he couldn’t explain, but he continued to push it aside for now.

One day or night he found his father at his desk with a large pile of parchment work to be done. He slowly approached the door where Achilles leaned. “Hello Sir. May I?” He gestured to the room.

Achilles nodded and smiled. “The Queen is getting some rest, but it seems the little Princess didn’t wish to sleep. Perhaps you can keep her entertained. Good luck, Lad.”

Right before Zagreus stepped in, he turned back to Achilles. “Sir, you haven’t been to see Patroclus since she was born. Why don’t you go visit. I’ll watch her until you return. I can call you with Antos when I’m leaving if you’d like.”

Achilles glanced towards the main hall with a frown. “I don’t know Lad. I don’t think your father would be pleased if I left.”

Zagreus waved him off lightly. “I’ll deal with my father, and I can keep her safe. Take a break. You’ve earned it. Besides, Than is right over there. Nothing will happen.”

“Thank you Lad.” 

Zagreus poked his head in to find his mother holding little Melinoë, and looking terribly exhausted. Melinoë was playing with a small toy that dangled butterflies above her head. “Hello mother. Mind if I take her for awhile? I’m sure you could use a break.”

She looked torn, but agreed, carefully transferring the little princess to his arms with the toy. “She won’t settle down, but if you want to play with her, maybe you can tire her out. I can’t imagine how Nyx handled you.”

Zagreus smiled lightly while lightly shaking the toy. “By having far more patience than I deserved, I’m sure. I’m sure Nyx would be willing to help if you asked.”

“She is, and she has offered, but I want to spend as much time with her as I can. I don’t want to miss a moment.” Persephone gently caressed her cheek. It made something squeeze painfully around Zagreus’ heart, but again he brushed it aside. He understood what she meant.

“Go, get some rest. I’ll watch over her, and tell you all about it if you want.” 

She smiled and stroked his cheek as well, “Of course. Thank you Zagreus. I suppose even us Gods need our rest sometimes. Come get me if you need anything.” With that she left them alone.

Zagreus looked down into bright eyes. She was focused on the butterflies for a bit, making happy gurgling sounds, but then her eyes shifted and she focused her ruby and emerald eyes on him. She reached up for… something, frowning when she couldn’t reach whatever it was. He leaned down to try and determine what she was reaching for when a gold leaf from his laurel circlet fell down into her hand. She shrieked happily and pulled the leaf to her chest.

He grinned and put the butterfly toy aside so he could lean down and let her reach up her other hand to attempt to grasp at his hair and circlet. He got just close enough that she pulled hard on some hair and managed to loose a red leaf this time. Her giggles were infectious as he found himself grinning back. 

She held the two leafs in her hands then focused her eyes back up to his head. Immediately she dropped the leaves in exchange for reaching for more. He chuckled and leaned down so she could reach it. She tugged painfully at his hair and his circlet so he decided it best to just take it off for a moment so she could play with it. If it kept her happy, he didn’t see the harm.

While she played with the circlet he heard a loud voice from outside the room that made him jump. “Where is Achilles? Why is no one guarding this door?”

He winced, but before he could try to tell his father off, he heard a calm voice from nearby, “Achilles needs a break sometimes, and Zagreus is watching her. I am also here. No one could get in.”

His father still sounded angry as he scoffed and opened the door. Zagreus held her close as he eyed his father. “She’s perfectly fine, and I would have kept her safe.”

“You’ve never even seen a baby in your life, Boy. How would you know what to do if something happened? Give her here.”

Zagreus didn’t want to fight in front of her as he could see she was already looking upset, but he wasn’t just going to give up. “No, she was perfectly happy before you came in. If anything happened I was going to call Achilles back and he’d be here within moments. I may not have ever seen a baby, but you’ve never taken care of one before either.” 

He saw Thanatos wince from behind his father, but his father seemed to calm suddenly which only had Zagreus tensing up. Melinoë held up his circlet and shook it with a happy giggle. Hades sighed and turned to Thanatos. “Keep guard until Achilles or I return.” He looked to Zagreus but seemed to look right over him in favour of little Melinoë who shrieked happily at her father. The look on his face was completely different from what Zagreus was used to. 

He left then, leaving them alone with Thanatos giving him a pitying look. “You shouldn’t have sent Achilles for break. Until she is old enough, this hall needs guarding more than ever.”

Zagreus sighed at the light scolding. “And there’s no threat in the house. Meg has made sure of that, and if there was, I could defend her or someone would be here in a moment.”

“Yes, well, perhaps try not to anger your father. He only wants to keep her safe, as do we all.” Zagreus couldn’t argue with that, but still, that pit in his stomach only grew. Thanatos floated over and peered down at the little goddess. He didn’t say anything, simply gave Zagreus a soft kiss on the cheek then stood beside him while he tried to keep her occupied.

Her attention was only kept for so long though, and soon enough she was upset over… something. Zagreus tried to calm her to no avail. Thanatos disappeared and reappeared a moment later with Nyx behind him. Zagreus handed her over and soon she calmed. “She is hungry. I will feed her. Thank you for watching her, my child. You may go.” Nyx gently pried away the circlet and handed it back to him. That briefly seemed to upset her, but she quickly calmed.

Thanatos led him away as Nyx took over. Zagreus took out Antos and stared at it for a moment. Thanatos put a hand gently on his shoulder. “Zag…” He said softly. “You gave him what break you could. He’ll get a proper break soon enough. I’m sure he appreciated it.”

He hummed and called quietly, “Achilles.” 

Almost immediately a sigil appeared on the ground and Achilles appeared. He looked into the room where Nyx was rocking the small bundle then turned to Zagreus. “Thank you, Lad. I appreciate the chance to go to Elysium. I will resume my post.”

“Of course, Sir. It was my pleasure.” Zagreus gave him a weak smile then turned towards his room, purposefully ignoring his father when he asked if Achilles was back. It was only once he was in his room that he realized Thanatos had followed him. 

Thantos looked at him with worry, and he couldn’t deal with that right now because it meant acknowledging his feelings. He couldn’t even muster a fake smile as he gently pleaded, “Not right now, Than? Just, later. I’ll talk to you later. I think I should go do my job. Need to do something around here.”

The look on Than’s face didn’t change, but he nodded. “Okay. Take Mort with you. If you need me, for anything, call.”

“Yeah.” And he was off through the door to his courtyard. He did grab Mort as asked and Varatha and was off through the window.

Chapter Text

Before he knew it, he found himself in Elysium at a peaceful glade, barely remembering the trip here. He remembered every single one of his relatives asking about Melinoë, and the feeling of unease increasing with each one he talked to. He remembered Orpheus and Eurydice asking after the young princess, and even planning to make a song for her. Everything else was a blur of enemies. He was a little worse for wear, but still alive.

Patroclus stood leaning in his usual spot, and brightened upon seeing him. “Stranger.” Before he could continue, Zagreus had dropped Varatha and had practically dashed into him and wrapped his arms around him. Patroclus grunted, but held his ground, dropping his own spear in order to hold him. “Nice to see you too.” He said in a light tone, with a hint of worry.

Zagreus sucked in a shaky breath, but didn’t respond, only holding on tighter and burying his face in his chest. Patroclus stroked a hand up his back and into his hair. “Stranger… Zagreus, what’s wrong? Is everything alright at the house? Melinoë?”

Zagreus shrugged, trying to get his thoughts in order. The gnawing feeling that had been growing since she was born finally seemed to be consuming him, and he didn’t know what to do with it. His mind kept circling, but it only made the feeling worse. Finally, sensing the increasing worry from Patroclus he managed, “Melinoë is fine. She’s great. Everything is fine. I don’t know… I don’t know, Sir.”

Patroclus relaxed a bit in hearing the princess was fine. Achilles had visited temporarily, but then been called away after a short time. He hadn’t worried until Zagreus came in like this, so it was good to know there wasn’t cause to worry there. It didn’t lessen the worry for the Prince who was trembling in his arms.

Before Patroclus could think of what to do, Zagreus started talking again, “I… I don’t know why I feel this way. She’s perfect and lovely, and I’m still happy to have her. She played with my circlet and she’s really lovely. I just… I don’t understand.”

“What don’t you understand?” Patroclus was trying to piece this together from what he knew about Zagreus, but before now Zagreus had been nothing but ecstatic to be an older brother. Now she was perhaps a few days old and something had changed.

“I’m… upset, but I have no reason to be. She’s everything I ever imagined and more and… and they love her.” His voice was muffled slightly, and got worse as he sagged completely against Patroclus who held him tighter. “He loves her. And maybe… maybe he was the same with me at that age? Not like I remember being that young but… maybe I should have asked Than or Nyx.”

Patroclus closed his eyes and sighed. He hadn’t talked much with Zagreus about his father, but he’d heard from Achilles and Zagreus had made passing comments about it. Of course he would be upset by this. He only wished he could have saved Zagreus from the sudden agony of it now. “You mean your father?”

Zagreus nodded against him, taking a deep breath so his voice was even. “He’s taken more time off than he ever has in my life. He’s incredibly protective of that hall. He was angry with me for giving Achilles a break as if I wouldn’t look after her. I know it’s nothing unusual, but the way he looks at her…”

Patroclus was silent, allowing him to talk, but when it was clear Zagreus wasn’t going to continue, he made a decision. “Come on, Stranger. I think you could use some relaxation. I have just the place. Think you could let go of me long enough to walk there?”

Zagreus blushed as he pulled back a bit, but Patroclus was giving him a wide grin. Worry sparkled in his eyes, but he was hiding it well, so Zagreus nodded and allowed himself to be led further into the chamber that he hadn’t thought went anywhere. They walked along the river until they came upon a field with a house. He looked to Patroclus who continued to push gently on his back to lead him forward. 

“I never saw a need to stay at my house before. Wasn’t the same without Achilles. Once he returned I’ve been sprucing up the place. Come. I think you could use some proper relaxation, and perhaps food and a drink.” Patroclus stopped pushing him along when it was clear he was walking towards the house on his own, but kept a hand gently on his back to let him know he was still there. Zagreus appreciated it.

Patroclus pushed open the door which opened to a small, but cozy kitchen. There was enough room to cook and a table with 3 spots which he briefly found odd, but decided not to question. He took a seat when prompted while Patroclus went about looking through the cupboards. He pulled out a bottle of ambrosia, one he’d given them in fact and set it down on the table.

“Sir… I couldn’t. That was for you and Achilles. I would hate to impose.” The protest was weak, but he really did mean for them to have it.

“Yes, but you gave us plenty, and I think you need it more than I at the moment. If it’ll make you feel better, I’ll even share it with you.” Patroclus set down two glasses and poured some into each. “Are you hungry? I’m sure I could make something.”

“No Sir. I appreciate the offer, but this is enough.” Honestly he didn’t ever really need to eat, but even if he did, his stomach was in too many knots to enjoy it. 

Patroclus studied him for a moment then seemed to accept it well enough and took a seat across from him. He downed his drink in one go and slammed the glass onto the table with a smile. Zagreus continued to sip at his slowly. “If you’d like to talk, I’m here for it. If you simply wish to sit and enjoy this bottle of ambrosia, I’m here for that as well.”

Zagreus stared down at his glass for a moment then up at Patroclus who looked so patient and understanding. It made the feeling in his gut twist even more, ready to burst, but he wasn’t sure what to do with it.

“I… I don’t know where to start Sir. There’s so much I don’t understand. I should be happy.”

“I have found our emotions rarely listen to what we think they should be, rather they just are. Why don’t you tell me what happened, Stranger… Zagreus.” He said his name with such affection, Zagreus couldn’t help but cave.

“I went to see Melinoë, and sent Achilles for a break as you know. My mother was with her, so I told her to rest. She was wonderful and perfect. I couldn’t help but love her immediately.” He nervously fidgeted by tapping his fingers on the glass and table. “It was wonderful until my father noticed Achilles missing. I can’t do anything right to him. We argued, and that upset her, but as soon as he looked at her.” Zagreus stared at his hands, swallowing around the lump that had formed in his throat. “When he looked at her, it was like he was a completely different person. He looked so happy and like he loved her. I’m not saying he shouldn’t.” He clarified needlessly. “I never remember him looking at me like that.” He said the last part in a whisper, like admitting it would make everything worse. 

Patroclus continued to look at him sympathetically, but didn’t dare interrupt. Zagreus looked as though he had more to say, so he waited patiently while Zagreus took a sip of ambrosia. 

“I know I don’t remember being a baby, so maybe he did at one point, but I was a child when he… I was never good enough. Never smart enough, never productive enough. Yet there she is, and he already loves her. What did I do wrong?” Zagreus finally looked up at Patroclus imploringly, looking for answers. Anything at all.

Patroclus couldn’t bear the distance of the table when he saw the tear slip from Zagreus’ ruby eye. He quickly moved the chair so it was beside him and pulled him into a sideways hug. “You did absolutely nothing wrong, you hear me Stranger? You are perfect the way you are. The only one at fault here is your father for not seeing how perfect you are.”

Finally the knot that had been building and building since Melinoë was born burst and he sobbed into Patroclus’ shoulder. Patroclus gathered him as close as he could, soothing a hand up his back. He did his best to whisper soothing things while holding him tightly.

Zagreus didn’t know what else to do now other than sob into Patroclus’ shoulder. Patroclus seemed to be keen on squeezing the pain out of him, and he was hardly going to stop him. He didn’t know how to stop or if he could, so there was no point in trying. He cried until he couldn’t anymore, then simply sat, exhausted and shaking. He kept his head against Patroclus’ shoulder while he brushed fingers through his hair. “M’sorry.”

Patroclus sighed. “Nothing to be sorry for, Stranger. Never apologize to me for feeling.”

Zagreus shrugged, a clear sign of disbelief. He wanted to believe Patroclus, but he also couldn’t stop thinking how he was always taught. Feelings were a distraction, crying was pointless and only got the parchment wet. Perhaps he was the God of feeling too much. He tried burying his head further into his shoulder, an unfortunately impossible task.

Patroclus seemed to think for a moment while stroking his back then started speaking softly, “When I first came to Elysium I was confused. I’d been in Asphodel and suddenly was relocated here without explanation. I looked for… I don’t know how long, for Achilles. Fought a few shades on my way. When I discovered that he must have done something to get me into Elysium… I wept for a very long time. Right there in the glade you found me in. I didn’t have anyone to hold me then, but I swear I’ll make sure there’s someone here to hold you now.”

“Why are you telling me this Sir?”

“Because I want you to know that all of us feel, and all of us have been upset like you before. It’s completely understandable. I sat despondently in a glade until you came along, so now I’m going to do my best to help you, as you helped me.” His voice was warm and kind, but a part of Zagreus felt he couldn’t completely trust it, even if he trusted Patroclus wholeheartedly. “I can’t change what your father has done or the way he treats you now, but I can make sure you get all the love you deserve and more.”

“I… I don’t…” Zagreus shuddered, all out of tears, but the pain still lingered. “I don’t deserve that.”

“You do, and I’m going to give it to you until you believe it. Achilles and I will give you all the love you could want. I’m sure Thanatos would agree. I haven’t met him, but from what Achilles has told me, he loves you so much.”

Zagreus shrugged. He knew Thanatos loved him, they’d taken long enough to admit that, but he also wasn’t feeling all that charitable towards himself. And Thanatos’ love wasn’t what he was talking about. “I… understand that Sir. And I mean no disrespect, but it isn’t the same.”

Patroclus processed the words briefly then sighed against his head in a short breath. “I know nothing I say will convince you otherwise, so I won’t argue, at least not until I have Achilles here to back me up.” There was a smile in his voice that had Zagreus fighting a smile himself. “But I know he loved you since the moment he met you. How could he not? I understand it isn’t the same, but I hope someday it will be enough.” He stroked a hand down his spine while Zagreus lay limply in his arms, exhausted by the emotions. “Now, I think that’s quite enough of that for now. How about I take you to our lovely bed. I know Achilles says you rarely sleep, but I feel if ever, you’re deserving of sleep now.”

Zagreus only managed a tired mumble of “Don’t need to sleep.” And then he was being lifted into strong arms with an undignified yelp. He tightened his arms around Patroclus’ neck, but the hold was secure and Patroclus wouldn’t drop him. He relaxed his arms and let himself be carried to a large comfortable bed. Patroclus didn’t let him go, simply laid down with him still in his arms and carefully tucked him against his side. 

Zagreus quickly found himself falling asleep for the first time in a very long time with a hand stroking through his hair and a soft, deep voice saying, “Sleep now, Stranger. Tomorrow will be a new day.”

Chapter Text

Patroclus stayed awake with Zagreus curled against his side and his head resting on his chest. He stroked his hand through his hair and down his back. He certainly wore himself down, but he wasn’t sure how long he’d sleep. He certainly hoped it would be longer than usual. Achilles had mentioned how he’d maybe only once seen Zagreus actually sleep. Gods didn’t need to sleep, but sometimes it was good to do anyways.

He really wished Achilles wasn’t busy guarding the Princess. Chances were he wouldn’t get a break for some time, but he could really use him here. He didn’t know what else to do except hold Zagreus until he felt loved. Perhaps Thanatos could help, but he didn’t know how to contact the God of Death. He couldn’t even contact Achilles.

Zagreus shifted and a frown crossed his face. He made a pained sound and curled more into Patroclus who tried to calm him by brushing his hair. “Shhh, It’s alright, Stranger. You’re okay.” He breathed a sigh of relief as Zagreus settled, but a pained look remained, so he continued to brush his fingers through his hair. 

It took all of Patroclus’ training not to jump and jostle Zagreus when there was a bright flash of green light. He looked to the end of the bed where a man floated in a black chiton and wearing a hood. He was also holding a Scythe behind his back. While he’d never met this God before, he recognized who it was. 

“Lord Thanatos.” He said in a whisper, not wishing to wake Zagreus. “I would kneel, but…” He gestured to Zagreus who was practically lying on top of him.

Thanatos shook his head. “No, don’t. I was simply… worried. He hadn’t returned to the house in some time so I thought I’d look for him. I’m glad to see he is well.”

Patroclus made a pained face, looking down at Zagreus. “Physically well, perhaps.” The look on Thanatos’ face told him he understood well enough. He looked worried as he came around the side of the bed. “I got him to sleep, but I’m not sure how long that’ll last. I don’t think he wishes to return just yet.”

Thanatos nodded in understanding. “I’m glad he’s here. I was worried he was off somewhere on the surface alone. At least he isn’t alone.” Thanatos hesitated then lowered himself a bit and leaned down to stroke his cheek. Zagreus seemed to instantly calm. “I haven’t seen him sleep for more than five minutes in years. Thank you.”

Patroclus stared at the god before him thanking him, but he could recognize the look in his eyes, and he’d heard Zagreus talk about Thanatos before. It was easy to see how much Zagreus loved him. “Lord Thanatos… If it isn’t too much to ask, I know Achilles is guarding the princess, but…” He looked down at Zagreus, unsure if he would be smited for asking, but he knew Thanatos would do whatever he could for Zagreus, so he had to try. “Could you find a way to allow him time here? I think he could help with the S- with Zagreus.”

Thanatos didn’t move his eyes from Zagreus as he contemplated this. “I can try. Lord Hades isn’t keen on leaving her alone. In fact he was rather furious with Zagreus for giving him a break. I will try though. I’m sure the Queen will agree that this is important enough for a break. Mother Nyx might be able to watch over them while he is here.” Thanatos nodded and stood, floating a little further away from the bed. “Take care of him. If you need me, have him call me with Mort.”

With that he disappeared in another flash of green. Patroclus looked back down to make sure it didn’t wake Zagreus, but it actually seemed to have calmed him. He relaxed back into the pillows, waiting for either Zagreus to wake or Achilles to come home. He believed Thanatos would certainly try, but he also knew the fact Zagreus had slept this long already was a miracle.

Thankfully the next thing that happened was not Zagreus waking, but the door opening suddenly and loudly. Unfortunately, Zagreus stirred at the sound as Achilles came straight to the room. As he came into the room Zagreus was blinking his eyes open.

Patroclus ignored Achilles for a moment to check on Zagreus who looked confused and tired. He likely wasn’t used to waking up like this. “Good morning, Stranger. How are you feeling? Sorry this fool woke you.”

Zagreus squinted his eyes at him then over at Achilles who was panting lightly as he stood in the doorway, obviously having run here from outside. Not that it was an emergency, but Thanatos probably looked worried telling him. 

“I… fell asleep?” He scrunched his nose then turned to Achilles. “Are you okay?”

Achilles laughed lightly and sat on the edge of the bed. “I’m fine, Lad. I’m here to make sure you’re alright.”

That seemed to wake Zagreus up, his eyes widening. “Wait, what about Melinoë? Father will be angry if he sees you away from your post so soon!” He tried to get up to do something, but Patroclus grabbed him and pulled him back down.

“Calm, Stranger. Thanatos gave him a break, and I’m sure he’s ensured the princess is safe.” 

Achilles nodded in agreement. “Aye. Lady Nyx herself told me to come here. Master Death also seemed rather insistant. How are you feeling, Lad? You slept?”

Zagreus frowned, completely confused. “Yeah? How long was I asleep?” He directed the question at Patroclus, but didn’t stop looking at Achilles with worry.

Patroclus shrugged, “Awhile. Don’t worry about it. You got the rest you clearly needed. Are you hungry? I know how to cook some things. Fish?”

Zagreus blinked then nodded. “Yeah, yeah that sounds good.” He glanced towards Achilles, still blinking his unmatched eyes in confusion. “Are you sure this is okay Sir? I don’t want Father to be angry with you.”

“I’m quite sure, Lad. I can handle your father. Besides, your mother agreed and sent me away. They have plenty to keep Melinoë safe.” He patted his leg comfortingly. “Now answer me, are you feeling better after your nap?”

Zagreus frowned at him, finally shaking off some of the sleep. “I’m fine Sir. I should go so you can enjoy your break.” He tried to push up again and scowled when Patroclus wouldn’t let him. He jerked his hand, but Patroclus held fast and gave him a look. “I don’t want to talk about it. Can we just…”

Achilles softened, “I’m here for you, Lad. Stay and eat with us, talk if you want or just relax for a bit.”

“I don’t want to be in your way, Sirs. You’re not getting any breaks right now. You should enjoy what you do get.”

“Stranger.” Patroclus cut in with a look. “I asked Achilles here for you. We’ve gone much longer without seeing each other. We can be apart for a short time while the princess needs protecting. Now let us take care of you.”

Zagreus deflated then, slumping down against Patroclus. “I’m sorry for earlier, Patroclus, Sir, but you don’t need to worry about me. I’ll be fine.”

They hadn’t had a chance to talk about what had happened, but Achilles could easily guess. “Of course you will, but that doesn’t mean we can’t help you get there now. Come you two. Patroclus will cook and we’ll sit and talk. You can talk about whatever you’d like. Just stay awhile longer.”

Zagreus sighed. He was stubborn, but they were more so together. “Okay. Fine. We can talk then.”

Finally Patroclus let go of him to let him sit up. They all went to the kitchen where the ambrosia still sat on the table. Achilles immediately poured himself a glass and sat down. Patroclus huffed a laugh and went about finding food to cook for them. Zagreus sat in front of his glass and stared into it for awhile.

“Lad, I understand if you don’t wish to repeat your conversation with Patroclus, but Master Thanatos came to me rather worried for you, and last I saw you you seemed rather sad. Did something happen with Melinoë?”

Zagreus shook his head, glancing at Patroclus who was watching them while he set out what was needed. “Want me to explain, Stranger or do you want to? I think he needs to know some of it.”

“I don’t see what different it will make. It’s nothing new. I really will be fine, Sir. Just let me go on.” Zagreus gestured to the door, but made no attempt to get up.

“I think you’ve been fine for too long, but if you think you’ve talked it out with Patroclus then please tell us what else we can do.”

Zagreus kept shaking his head. “There’s nothing to be done. You can’t change the past, and she deserves to be loved, so there’s nothing to do. I just have to deal with my feelings and move on.”

“What Achilles is trying to say, is that you don’t have to deal with them on your own. We care about you, Stranger. Thanatos does as well, and I’m sure your mother and Nyx. We want you to be happy.” 

“I-I don’t deserve that, Sirs. There’s no reason I should be unhappy. I have enough I could ever want.” Zagrues gestured widely, emphatically. “Why should it matter if one more person loves her? Why should it matter if she grows up with Mother around. I can’t change the past, and I should want the best future possible for her.” He breathed in heavily then forcefully pushed away from the table and started to pace. “That’s the problem. It has nothing to do with my father. It has everything to do with me.”

Achilles closed his eyes and looked pained while Patroclus tracked Zagreus. Achilles found his voice first, why Patroclus had wanted him here. “Zagreus, Lad, you do deserve to be happy. You’ve read my codex entry on you, you know what I think of other Gods, but you’re… kind in a way no other God is. You’ve helped so many shades get a second life, asking nothing in return. You deserve everything. Just because your father can’t see that, doesn’t mean the rest of us don’t.” 

“Well maybe you shouldn’t. Maybe if my own parents saw something wrong with me, the rest of you should too.” Zagreus closed his eyes and breathed then moved towards the door, but Achilles was fast and stood, grabbing him before he could leave. Zagreus tried to pull away but Achilles held fast. “Let go. I don’t want to hurt you.”

“You won’t hurt me. Not because you can’t, but because I know you won’t. Now I want you to listen to me.” Achilles demanded while holding him still. Zagreus didn’t try to leave, but wouldn’t look at him. “Your mother loves you. She was distraught that she’d lost you. She didn’t leave because there was something wrong with you. She left because she thought she’d lost you and didn’t see a reason to stay without you. She didn’t just come back to be with your father, she came back to be with you.”

Zagreus incrementally shook his head, but he wasn’t trying to pull away. Achilles kept his grip on his arm anyways. He continued, “We love you too, and not just because you brought us back together, but we love you for you. We loved you before we met again, before there was even hope of it. You are kind and witty, and a good friend to everyone you come across, no matter their station. You love with your whole heart and give everything to make everyone in your life happy. I know you’ll do the same for Melinoë. That’s the problem though isn’t it, Lad? You want everyone to be happy, but no matter how hard you try, your father is never happy with you.” Zagreus flinched like Achilles had struck him, so Achilles gently pulled him into his arms. Zagreus didn’t fight and allowed himself to be held, still refusing to look at either of them.

“It’s a harsh truth, but it is true, Stranger.” Patroclus came closer and placed a hand gently on his back. “If I thought it would help, I’d fight your father myself.” Zagreus let out a breath, almost a laugh, but not quite. “We do love, Achilles longer than I, but I love you all the same for being my wonderful Stranger. Even if that wasn’t the case, a parent should love their child, and you were robbed of that. Let us try to make up for that in some way. I know we’re poor substitutes, but-” He was cut off by the prince suddenly turning and hugging him. Achilles looked briefly surprised, but smiled nonetheless. 

“Not poor substitutes.” Zagreus mumbled into his chest and he laughed and hugged him. Achilles joined from behind. “Thank you, Sirs. I do appreciate all you’re doing but…” He trailed off and looked to the door. Achilles moved back and clamped a hand on his shoulder. Zagreus seemed to find strength to continue in that. “I think I just need to go out and not think for awhile, if that’s okay.”

“Of course it’s okay, Lad. Go, fight the champions, show Theseus who’s really in charge here. I’m sure it’ll make you feel loads better.” Zagreus still had his head turned down, not wanting to look at them, but Patroclus saw an upturn of his lips. “And when you want either of us, just ask. I’m sure Thanatos could find me a way to take a break, or I’m sure Charon would be willing to ferry you here if you don’t want to fight your way here. Whatever you want, it’s yours.”

“Thank you again, Sirs. I am sorry for all of this.” He gestured around him then to himself. 

“Don’t apologize, Lad. We’re happy to help you feel better in whatever way we can. We’ll walk you to the door. I believe I saw Varatha lying in the grass.” Achilles said with deep worry in his voice. It was likely along with Thanatos’ worry, that which had spurred Achilles to worry more for their young Prince.

Chapter Text

It did feel good to absolutely destroy Theseus, which he did thoroughly. He laughed a bit at the thrill when it was over, perhaps too fast, but it still felt good. He waved to his shade with a bright smile, forgetting his worries for a moment. 

He smashed the pots at the entrance to the temple then walked into it and paused, freezing in the entrance as he looked ahead. He glanced at the rooms where the Satyrs were, still waiting for him to go through, but something big was missing. Cerberus wasn’t here. 

He walked slowly into the room and glanced nervously to the right where thankfully Charon was there with his wares. Zagreus glanced at the large doors guarding the entrance with a sudden sinking feeling. Maybe he just wanted Cerberus guarding the house specifically, and there was no need to send him if it was just Zagreus. It was logical, but surely he’d still. 

He shook his head and walked over to Charon. “Charon, mate, do you know where Cerberus is?”

“ Grrrnnnhg.” Charon groaned and somehow sounded somewhat perplexed.

Zagreus sighed and glanced at the wares sitting there. “I know Melinoë needs protection, but wouldn’t she also need protection from someone breaking into the underworld? Wouldn’t it be best to stop them here?”

“Mmmrrnnhh gggrruuaahgh.” 

“I know I’m not a threat so it doesn’t count, but there could be a threat.” Zagreus sighed and shook his head. Charon looked at him expectantly somehow. “Okay, I get the point. Cerberus is needed down there, but does that mean I don’t have to go fight the satyrs?”

“Hhhhhnnnnggaaa mmmmm.” Charon gestured towards the doors which still had their boons above them.

Zagreus sighed and looked behind him then back to Charon. “I know cleaning up the satyrs and vermin is part of my job, but it usually comes with getting out.” He paused and Charon didn’t reply so he kept going under his expectant gaze. “Okay fine. Here’s the deal. I’ll get enough coin for that diamond there, then I’ll go out and fight my father.”

“Hhhhmmmmm.” And usually Zagreus got some idea of what he meant, but this time it really did seem to be a hum of acknowledgement, as well as something else that Charon was unwilling to tell him.

Zagreus looked at him, but Charon simply gestured to the rooms behind him. Fine, he supposed it would be a distraction to take out the satyrs and then he wouldn’t have to worry about it for a little while at least.

He runs through all five rooms, only getting a little scratched up while he’s at it, but it gets his blood pumping again and the adrenaline going so he can forget while he does it, which is why even though he has enough to pay for the diamond, he keeps going. 

He walks up and hands over the obol with a wide grin and takes the diamond. Maybe he can use that to get something for Melinoë. He’s not sure what, but he’s sure she could use something more. Or perhaps his mother needs something. She has been very tired.

With the diamond he nods to Charon who says “Mmmmghhh nnnrrrrhhhhhhh.” Zagreus doesn’t understand this one, but he waves all the same as he heads out. He’d left the satyr sack behind since well, he can’t exactly take it back to the house with him. Cerberus would understand.

He walks out into the frozen land and again stops as for the first time his father isn’t waiting for him. He frowns and looks around to see if this is some sort of trick, but no, his father is nowhere to be seen. Nothing is out here. Perhaps something came up and he’ll simply be late. He stabs Varatha into the ground in frustration. He’ll wait a few minutes.

He finds a bass in those few minutes and fishes it up, but it quickly becomes apparent that he is very bad at waiting. He quickly grows bored. He likes exploring the surface, but this area is small, and not much happens here. Besides, he needs something to distract from the sinking feeling that seems to be unwilling to leave him alone. 

He picks up Varatha and throws it across the clearing, but nothing is coming. He calls it back and storms out of the clearing, heading up the path towards the cliff. Might as well go tend to his mother’s gardens while he’s out here. She’d like to hear about it when he returns, and with Melinoë she hasn’t had a chance to go there in a very long time. 

He gets to the top of the hill and stares out over the ocean. The sun is already up in the sky, shining brightly over the ocean. It’s beautiful, it always is, but it’s… lonely. He wishes he could be here with someone. He wishes they weren’t so focused on Melinoë, even if he understands it. Everyone is busy, and he has nothing to do because whatever he does do, is wrong.

He didn’t even realize he was holding Mort tightly in his hands until there was a bright flash of green behind him. He jumps and looks down at his hand then up at Thanatos. He hadn’t even said his name, but somehow… Thanatos squints at the sun in slight annoyance then looks at Zagreus with such tenderness that the pit in his stomach almost disappears for a moment.

“Than. Hi.”

“Hello Zagreus. I… know you didn’t call me, but I could feel… Well, I’m here, whatever you need.”

Zagreus feels selfish. He knows Thanatos has a lot of work, and his father has been running him into the ground lately, but his presence chases away the loneliness. He gestures up the hill towards his mother’s cabin. “Would you stay with me? Just while I’m on the surface. I wanted to go tend to Mother’s garden.”

“Of course.” The answer is so immediate and sure that for a moment Zagreus’ heart sores. Thanatos might not be the best with feelings, but he knows how to make Zagreus feel better just by being there.

They didn’t say much as they walked to the garden. Thanatos seemed like he had something to say, but didn’t know how to express it, so they walked in silence. 

They walked into the garden, and Zagreus went and picked up some tools to water and weed the garden. Thanatos floated after him, picking up a few of his own. They went over to some especially unruly trees and got to work. 

It wasn’t long before Thanatos got up the will to speak, probably realizing Zagreus couldn’t be here for too long. “I know your father and Cerberus didn’t leave the house. I thought you might still be with Patroclus and Achilles, but then I realized… Well I thought you could use some company. I know things are different, but I’m here, whatever you need. Hermes and Charon can deal with most of my work for now.”

Zagreus hummed in acknowledgement as he went about pruning the trees. “He’s never once missed it. Of course he knows it’s me, and not an actual danger, but Cerberus is always there and he’s always there, no matter what. I know she’s important, but isn’t this important too? Isn’t securing the underworld keeping her safe?”

“It is, but your father knows the difference between you and an actual threat. If there was a threat of course he’d come. I know you want things to be normal, but they can’t be, not anymore.” Thanatos paused and watched Zagreus’ shoulders slump a bit. “That doesn’t mean we will stop loving you. There’s room in our hearts for both of you.”

“I know that, and I love her too, but that isn’t what I’m worried about. I know things have to be different, I just… I don’t understand why they’re different for her, but not me. I know I can’t change the past, and I wouldn’t wish for her to have my childhood, I just don’t understand why.”

Thanatos sighed. “I don’t know, Zagreus. That’s something you’d have to ask your father. I don’t think you’d like the answer though.Just promise you won’t take what he says to heart please.”

Zagreus is quiet then grunts as he feels the beginnings of the pull to the Styx. “I can’t promise that, Than.”

Thanatos is immediately by his side when he grunts in pain, pulling him into his side. “Then promise you’ll come to me or Achilles or Patroclus or even Megeara afterwards. Promise you’ll let us assure you that you are loved.” Zagreus nodded and Thanatos relaxed a bit. “Now, do you want to go back to Patroclus and Achilles or do you want to go back to the house? I can take you.”

Zagreus wanted to tell him to just let the Styx take him, but the look in Than’s eyes told him he wasn’t taking no for an answer. “The house. I want to see Melinoë again, and might as well get this over with. Will you… will you stay?”

“Of course.” Thanatos disappeared without another word, taking them both to the house.

Chapter Text

He took them to the west hall in his little corner by the balcony. Achilles was back at his post outside Melinoë’s room. Zagreus walked towards the room with Thanatos following closely behind. His father was thankfully at his desk. 

“I just want to see her first then…” He explained needlessly to Than who nodded and followed him into the room. She was actually sleeping for once in her crib and no one else was in the room. She had a transparent hand wrapped tightly around a blanket. Zagreus brushed lightly at her white hair and her soft head. She briefly furrowed her brows, but relaxed soon after back into sleep. He sighed in relief and decided to just look for the moment.

“She deserves everything in the world or the underworld. I don’t want to take any of it away from her.” Zagreus whispers, his voice choked. “But I also… have to do this.”

Thanatos hums, looking down at her from over his shoulder. “I think she will still get everything she could ever need, even if you confront your father. I don’t think it’ll change anything, Zagreus. She has many people who care deeply for her. Although she may wake from the argument...” His tone is teasing, an attempt to be light. Zagreus gives him a small smile. “Just… don’t push him like you normally do. That won’t help.” 

“I think I have the right to speak my mind, Than.” Zagreus says angrily.

He puts a comforting hand on his bare shoulder. “I only meant… Speak your mind, but do so in a way that gets the point across rather than simply makes him angry.” 

Zagreus’ shoulder sag under his hand as his anger drains out of him. “Okay.” He replies softly.

They stand watching her for a moment longer then Zagreus nods and turns towards the door. “Let’s get this over with.”

They went straight to the great hall where a line of shades was waiting as usual. There didn’t seem to be more than usual so it wasn’t as though taking time off made much of a backlog. His mother stood by Cerberus as usual. Cerberus looked at him and whined softly then laid back down.

“Zagreus” His mother called as he approached the desk. She smiled at him then glanced at Melinoë’s room. “Is she still asleep?”

“Mother. She is.” He responds shorter than he meant, but he’s tense, and anxious. Thanatos shoots him a look, but he ignores him. “Father. I would like an audience with you.”

Hades scoffs, writing something down. The next shade hangs back, unwilling to approach with the prince now there. “I do not have the time, b-Zagreus. As you can see there is a lot of work to be done.” 

“There is always a lot of work to be done, but it doesn’t seem to be any more than usual. You’ve taken plenty more time away from the parchment and the house is still here, so I’m quite sure you can take this time.” He kept his voice even and steady with a sharp edge to it that seemed to get his parents’ attention.

“Hades, perhaps this can wait. You should listen to Zagreus.” She looks pointedly at the shades.

He sighs and waves his hand. “Leave us.” The shades quickly take the cue and float off or disappear on the spot if they’re close enough. Zagreus glances around once the line is gone and notices only a few shades linger in the west hall, along with Achilles who must have returned. The usual residents of the house are around, but pretending to ignore them for now.

“Well, speak Boy. What was so pressing that you had to interrupt my work?” 

Persephone shoots him a look, but Zagreus beats her to the correction, “Zagreus. My name is Zagreus. Are you going to do that to her once she’s old enough to understand? Start calling her Girl rather than the name you gave to her?” 

“Perhaps if she becomes as disobedient and reckless as you. I can only pray to the fates that she doesn’t.” Persephone glares at him, which he catches, and backtracks with a sigh. “No, of course I won’t call her that. Now what is it you wished to speak of, Zagreus.” He says the name pointedly, but it doesn’t alleviate the death stare from Persephone.

“Exactly that.” He gestures wildly at them. “Why is she different? What did I do to earn your disdain? I was just a child, but you never could be bothered from my first memories.”

“She hasn’t had her first memories yet. You were cared for plenty as a baby. Nyx can confirm this if you’d only ask her. Then you started talking and walking…”

“I was a child!” Zagreus shouted, fury burning through him. His feet started to spark, and even Thanatos trying to calm him with a gentle hand didn’t help. “Answer me this, did you leave your precious parchment work and duties to care for me like you do her, or did you leave it mostly to Nyx.”

Hades stands and makes a low, frustrated noise. “Your circumstances were different from hers. Your mother wasn’t here, the house was disorderly, I simply didn’t have the time.”

“Mother isn’t doing your job now, her being gone makes no difference for how much time you had on your hands. You’re taking more time now than you ever have to be with her. Even after Mother returned you never spent time with me beyond fighting me on the surface, which apparently you no longer have time for.” He was trying to sound reasonable, but his voice definitely sounded thick and hurt.He noticed they were getting attention now. Nyx had come around the corner with a strange look, and Megeara was watching him from the entrance of the lounge with Dusa beside her.

“Zagreus.” Hades growled. “There is a lot of parchment work to do, something I don’t expect you to understand, and Melionë can’t be left unguarded while I go fight you. Achilles was taking a break, someone needed to be here to ensure her safety. Perhaps if you didn’t insist on giving him unneeded breaks you could have what you want.”

“Actually, I sent Achilles for a break.” Thanatos said from behind Zagreus with a hand resting gently on his shoulder, attempting and failing to calm him. 

Hades scowled at him then back to Zagreus. “It doesn’t matter who sent him for break. Security is needed here, and it was severely lacking. Cerberus and I are needed here for the time being. You can continue to do your job or you could take time to guard your sister yourself.”

“What exactly are you afraid of? You or Mother are with her almost constantly. If not you then someone else is with her or guarding her door. Who do you think is going to hurt her here? If you’re so worried, you could increase security, but you won’t. You only want to make us all suffer, and for what? I wandered around this house without any security from the time I could walk. Just answer the question. Why is she different? What did I do wrong?” 

“Child…” Nyx said from across the room, and he briefly met her eyes, but then turned back to his father who was now looking away. He didn’t want her placating him. He wanted answers. She continued anyways, “He’d just lost your mother. He thought you’d died as well.”

“That isn’t an excuse, Nyx.” Zagreus snapped. Her eyes flashed, which he’d likely feel bad for later, but right now he didn’t care. “I want to hear it from him. I want you to tell me why and then swear you won’t do that to her.”

“Zagreus is right.” His mother said softly. She looked stricken. She knew she wasn’t blameless in the difference, but Zagreus didn’t care as much about that. He didn’t blame her.

Hades made a low growling noise then answered in a gruff voice. “Nyx is right. I had just lost your mother. I didn’t know how to handle a child, but now I do. If you want me to do better with her, then I can’t be spending time with you.”

Zagreus flinched back a bit. “So you’ll give her all of the time in the world, by giving up what little time you spent with me?”

“We’re trying our best, Zagreus. This is difficult for all of us. Just give us time to adjust.” Persephone tried to placate, but he just felt more angry and hurt. “Some things have to change with a baby, but your father will try to spend more time with you.”

Zagreus sighed. “I understand that, mother. I simply don’t understand why I wasn’t given the same treatment as a child. I suppose I have my answer. I always did.” He turned to walk towards his room, gently shaking Than’s hand from his shoulder. He heard a cacophony of voices say a variation of his name, but only stopped for one of them.

“ Zagreus .” Hades called in a deep boom. “Don’t walk away before this is done. What do you want?”

Zagreus spun, ruby and emerald eyes flashing. “I want you to admit that I didn’t do anything wrong. I want you to admit you took your frustration out on a child for existing. It wasn’t my fault Mother left. In fact, without me, she wouldn’t have returned.I want you to swear you won’t do it to her.”

Unfortunately that was the moment it seemed their yelling finally woke Melinoë. She started crying and both of his parents turned. Persephone ran off, but Hades paused and said. “I will do my best, and I am sorry, Zagreus..” Somehow he didn’t expect him to actually agree in any way. It didn’t make him feel any better, like he’d hoped, so he didn’t respond, and instead stalked past Nyx, Meg, and Dusa into his room. He didn’t stop until he’d grabbed Malphon and was jumping into Tartarus. 

He refused to talk to his relatives, fighting with pure fury, punching everything and anything. It only served to fuel his anger. He even avoided Sisyphus’ chamber in order to keep fighting. He didn’t want to talk.

When he reached the end of Tartarus, unfortunately that choice was taken from him in the form of Megaera standing there, playing with her whip. He’d hoped she was still at the house so he could take his fury out on Alecto preferably, but it seems she’d taken that choice from him. 

“I don’t want to talk about it, Meg.”

She hummed, “Well too bad cause we’re going to talk. Right now you’re going to get yourself killed before you actually get much further. You aren’t seeing straight, you’re not taking any help. Do you want to go back to the house now? I assume not.”

He glared at her and refused a response, but she got the message. “No, you don’t. Thanatos gave me a brief rundown of how you’re feeling. Thought it best to let you blow off some steam before he came and talked to you, but I think it’s just making you angrier, and going back to the house certainly won’t make it better. Was your plan to run to your shade? Well then you’d have to explain what happened unless Achilles already did.”

“I didn’t have a plan, okay?” Zagreus growled. “I’m angry, and I don’t want to talk to anyone. You heard what happened down there. I don’t see why you’re doing this, unless you’re just trying to torture me.”

Megaera laughed, “You’d know if I was trying to torture you, Zagreus.Look, I’m with you on this. I think your father will come around, but I doubt if you somehow fought your way to the top this time that he’d be there for you to punch, so I’m making you take a moment to calm down and think.”

“You know I never do that.”

“Exactly why you should start.” She smirked at him. “I can help take the edge off, you can call Than and he can bring you to your shade in Elysium so you can continue to calm down there. Spend as much time as you want out here before returning to the house.”

Zagreus scoffed, but looked away, thinking. “Careful. Someone might think you’ve gone soft, Meg.”

She rolled her eyes at him. “Oh, everyone knows I’ve gone soft for you, even Alecto, especially Alecto. You’re just pitiful right now. And besides, you returning to the house right now to start another fight which would only upset Melinoë more, so I’m just doing my job.”

He scowled, but he knew she was right. “Fine, what do you suggest then?”

She smiled. “Exactly what I said. I help you take the edge off, give you a little pain as well as a fight, but I won’t send you back to the house. Instead once we’re done, you call Thanatos and go to Elysium because there’s no way you’re making it there in your current state, even after I help.”

He mulls it over only briefly, but he really saw no other way, and sometimes Megaera knew exactly what he needed and how to give it. Right now he just needed to feel. “Let’s do this.”

Chapter Text

Zagreus dashes forward before Megaera could prepare to strike, but of course she was faster, flashing away and around with a strike of her whip that struck his back twice. He ducked under another strike and threw a punch at her which landed. The fight continued that way for awhile. Each dodging a few and landing a few. Megaera hit a lot more often than Zagreus, but she was using her whip more like when they slept together rather than during one of their fights.

The pain was giving him something to concentrate on, and the fight, even if she was going easier on him than usual, was taking his mind off of things more than punching a bunch of shades. His skin still felt too tight, and he felt like he couldn’t breathe right so he kept trying to get more hits in, kept trying to win while Megaera danced around him. Not trying to kill him seemed to lend her more time to dodge his attacks than usual. 

She skidded to a stop on the other side of the room while playfully moving her whip around. He panted for a moment then settled down to charge at her again. “You sound tired, Zagreus. Want to give up yet?”

He growled in reply and dashed across the room. As he reached her she flapped her wing and flipped over him whipping down his back and thighs. He grunted and spun, only grazing her. She whipped again across his chest then around his legs, knocking him down. Before he could get up again, she looped her whip around him from his knees to his neck. She grabbed his hair, forcing his head back to look her in the eyes. He thought he’d be more upset by it, but suddenly he just felt tired. The pain from his hair and the burn of the whip cleared his head enough to calm him a little. He didn’t have to think like this. Meg was good at that. 

“There we go. Just need something else to think about. Next time just ask before you go beating a bunch of shades recklessly, hm?” She tightened the whip and he sucked in a breath. “Just stay like this. Don’t think about anything.”

He wasn’t sure how long she kept him like that. She seemed perfectly content to keep him trapped in her whip and pull his hair back. It wasn’t comfortable, but it made him focus on something else. She talks whenever he seems to need an extra distraction. It probably isn’t long before she’s rooting through his pocket and grabbing Mort. “Thanatos.” She called softly. A flash of green and he was in front of them. 

Thanatos swung his scythe around his back once it was obvious it wasn’t needed. Megaera unwrapped Zagreus from her whip. He slumped forward into Thanatos’ hands. He met Megaera’s gaze. “Is he okay?”

“Yes. Well he’s better. Take him to his shade in Elysium. Tell him to call you if he needs to, but I think Zag just needs to stay away from the house for awhile. For both his and Melinoë’s sake.” She instructed firmly, slowly wrapping her whip back up. 

Thanatos helped him stand. Zagreus leaned on him and nodded at Megaera. “Thanks Meg.” 

She scoffed, “Next time just come to me if you want to get beat up. No need to ask mindless shades to do it.” She stroked his face with her whip then pushed them both away. “Go on. Take some time off. Call us if you need.” Then she turned and flew off.

Thanatos lifted him and flashed away to the glade in Elysium. Patroclus was alone as Thanatos handed Zagreus over so he was leaning against Patroclus instead, although he was gaining his own feet. “Should I relieve Achilles for a break?”

Zagreus shook his head. “No. I’ll be okay. Thank you, Than.” He gave him a quick hug, which surprisingly Thanatos returned. “I’m sorry I didn’t go to you or Meg. I will next time. I’ll see you around.” He stepped back and saw a small smile from Thanatos before he disappeared from the glade.

Patroclus looked him over carefully then put a hand on his back, gently pushing him towards the house. “Come on Stranger. Let me make you something to eat. Then we can do whatever you like.”

Once they were inside and Patroclus was cooking some fish and bread, Patroclus dared to ask. “What happened?” He paused and glanced at him. “If you want to explain, that is.”

Zagreus sighed, but decided he might as well. “After I left here, I went to the surface as usual, but… he wasn’t there. In all the times I’ve been doing this, he’s never once not been there. It takes him no time at all to appear, but he decided not to. Than met me and we went back to the house where I confronted him.”

Patroclus hummed in acknowledgement. “I assume that didn’t go well. Did Thanatos bring you here straight after?”

Zagreus shook his head. “No. I went for a run to try and punch my feelings out, I guess. Got through Tartarus and then Meg was waiting for me at the end. Kind of wanted to just fight Alecto and move on.” 

Patroclus gave him a curious look. “Is that why you showed up here half out of it and barely standing? Did Lord Thanatos have to save you from Megaera’s wrath?”

“No, no. She helped, a lot actually. I just needed to calm down. Felt too many emotions. I’m okay now, I think. Actually she helped a lot. Distracted me from all of this so I can actually think about it. I think she’s right. I just need to stay away for a bit, calm down, and then move on.” He stared at the wall thoughtfully. “It’s not okay, but I don’t think it ever will be with my father. It never was.” He paused and Patroclus didn’t interrupt, letting the sound of sizzling fill the room for a moment. “But I think I can live with that. My relationship with him is what it is, but I can have a good relationship with my sister. I think… I think I can start to accept this now.”

Patroclus removed the fish from the heat then turned and put his hands gently on Zagreus’ shoulders. He then leaned forward and kissed his forehead. “I’m so proud of you. As is Achilles. You have the support you need, and you’ll make a wonderful older brother. Melinoë will love you, I just know it.” He patted his right shoulder then turned back to finish the food.

He blushed and looked down at his hands, “Thank you, Sir. That means a lot.” 

He spent quite some time with Patroclus, talking about nothing and everything. Finally after who knew how long Patroclus came up to him with his spear and handed him another spear from who knew where. “Sir?”

“You’re not used to sitting around so long. If Megaera was able to calm you through sparring, I think this’ll help.”

Zagreus glanced at the spear. “You don’t have to, Sir.” 

Patroclus shook his head, “I want to. This’ll be fun. It’s been awhile.” He pointed his spear at him and grinned.

Zagreus whacked the spear with his own and they began. Patroclus was actually quite good with a spear. At first Zagreus wasn’t really trying and kept getting tapped by the broad side of his spear, but even when he was trying, Patroclus still managed to get to him.

He dashed away, expecting Patroclus to hit left, but he swung quickly and hit him with the staff of the spear, knocking the wind out of him. He choked and gasped then started laughing. Zagreus threw down his spear. “Alright, alright. You win.”

Patroclus laughed and held out a hand for him, helping him stand up straight. “Still got it. We should do that more often.” 

“Yeah. That was fun. Thank you Sir. Think Achilles would join us sometime?”

“Oh I’m sure he’d love to. Next time.” Patroclus threw his spear to the side then sat in the grass, patting the spot beside him. “Better, Stranger?”

Zagreus sat with a wild grin. “Yeah, yes. Thank you, Sir. For everything.”

Chapter Text

He spent many days or nights up in Elysium. Sometimes Achilles would join them or even Thanatos or Megaera sometimes. They still had jobs to do, but spent what time they could between him and Melinoë. Eventually Meg started telling him about her, what she was doing, and he appreciated it. He wanted to know about his sister, he just couldn’t be with her yet.

Finally one day or night he told Patroclus, “I’m going home.”

Patroclus looked up from where he’d been lounging. “Oh? You sure?”

Zagreus nodded firmly. “Yes, I’m sure. I want to be around her again. I want to see her. I want to be her brother. I’ll deal with my father as I usually do, but I need to see her again rather than just stories from Meg. Maybe I can bring her up here sometime.”

Patroclus hummed in amusement, “Perhaps when she’s older, Stranger. You can instead come back with stories of her. I would love to hear those.”

“I can do that. I’ll come visit often. I do have a job to do after all. I’m sure if Than or Meg were to supervise Father would allow Melinoë to come visit.” He said thoughtfully.

“Perhaps, but I can also wait. I have plenty of stories from you and Achilles to live off of.” Patroclus stood then and placed his hands on his shoulder. “Go see your sister. I’m perfectly happy here knowing you and Achilles will be back soon enough.”

“Oh! I could give Achilles another break. He hasn’t been by in awhile. I’m sure you miss him, Sir. I’ll make sure you see him soon.”

Patroclus smiled and patted his right shoulder. “I appreciate it, Stranger. Now just remember, if you need anything at all, you’re always welcome here. If you went back too early then come back. I’ll always be glad to have you.”

Zagreus smiled up at him and nodded. “Thank you, Sir.”

He then called Thanatos with Mort to bring him back. They all thought purposefully getting himself killed in order to return to the house was a bit much. They appeared on the balcony near his parents’ and Melinoë’s room. Thanatos squeezed his hand then gently pushed him towards her room. 

He walked to the room, ignoring his father and mother by the desk. Achilles nodded to him in greeting as he approached, giving a warm smile. “Hello, Lad. She is playing with Miss Megaera, but I’m sure she’d love for you to join.”

He pushed open the door to see Megaera sitting cross-legged on the floor with Melinoë sitting across from her. She was bigger than last he’d seen her. She was holding a soft looking toy with wings that looked like Meg’s wings. 

Megaera looked up from where she was holding her own doll toy in front of her. “Oh look who finally decided to join us.”

Melinoë looked at Meg then turned her whole body so she could see what Meg was looking at. She wasn’t very coordinated, but she managed. Once she saw him, her whole face lit up in a smile. She giggled and held the toy out to him. He crossed the room and sat cross legged as well. “Hey Mel, hey Meg. What have we here?”

Meg smirked and held up the doll which he now realized was holding a sword. “We’re playing Fury vs God. Melinoë is very good at this game. She always wings.” She smiled sweetly down at Melinoë who giggled and waved the toy around, making the wings flap. “She loves my wings, although this is a bat, she thinks this is me. Here.” She held out a butterfly toy. “She associated butterflies with Than. Absolutely loves them, but she loves bats best.” The smirk never left her lips. 

Melinoë giggled then slammed her bat against his toy which he’d only loosely been holding. She started giggling more when the snake fell to the ground upside down. Her laughter was infectious, causing Zagreus and Megaera to join in. 

Zagreus took one of his laurels and put it on the bat’s head, remembering how much she’d enjoyed them before. She didn’t giggle more, but she did look incredibly happy. She petted the head of the bat and the laurel, making an incredibly happy, nonsensical noise.She held it up to Meg who nodded with a smile Zagreus had never seen her with. Melinoë truly brought them all immense joy. Zagreus couldn’t help but be happy to have Melinoë for a little sister.