Chapter Text
“I can tell that you have something on your mind, lad. Care sharing with us?”
Zagreus sent another volley of punches at his training partner/personal punching bag, Skelly, before looking over to Achilles, his trainer, who was diligently watching from the side of the room. “What? Oh, it’s nothing, sir, just, I always feel strange in the winter. It’s supposed to be cold, up there at least, but it’s still hot as ever down here.”
“I got you there, boyo! Whoo, this ‘blazin heat! I get why you want out sometimes! But come on, less ‘talkin more ‘sockin! ”
The pale man gave Zagreus a lopsided grin as the heavily embroidered boxing glove met his face. “Yeah! Felt that one!”
“Well, maybe there is something else I’m thinking about. Actually, I should probably get going. I have someone I’m supposed to meet soon.” The young prince of Hadestown quickly bolted himself over the ropes of the boxing ring, neatly landing and heading towards Achilles to get his gloves off.
“Who is this someone, lad? I didn’t think you had much to do this time of year.” Achilles questioned as he helped Zag with Malphon, the intricate twin fists he had just used to beat the tar out of the man in the ring.
“You’re not ‘planin another escape attempt, are ya, boyo? Thought summer was the time for that. Winters ‘trainin time! “
“Well, yes, but I’m not doing that. I owe a little favor to someone. He’s been really helpful, trying to get me out of here. When he asked for a favor, it’s the least I can do, after everything. And I swear, I’m not trying to get out this time.”
Achilles nodded. “Then you have my support, lad. Though, you might want to bring one of your infernal arms, you know how it is trying to get to the train station.”
Zagreus ran his hands down his black buttoned shirt, uncreasing it. He wanted to make a good impression on his relative. “Oh, I think I’ll be fine. Not trying to cause trouble this time. Plus, I like to think I’m just as good with only my fists. I’ll see you both back at the house.”
“Good luck, lad.”
“See you later, boyo!”
The young man waved, winked one of his mismatched eyes, and dashed out of the room to make his way to the outskirts of Hadestown once again.