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The waves of the sea crashed violently as a small boat desperately tried to last in the roiling sea. In the boat, two girls made their way through the storm as they prayed that they would be safe. “お姉ちゃん！怖いよ！” the younger one cried, hugging the older one's waist. The older one held her as she tried to navigate through the storm “ちょっと待ってください!” The older sister yelled as she tried to sail them to safety. However, the size of the waves, and the blowing winds seemed to be working against them, as the waves tossed the boat around, splashing both sisters in the salty water

The younger sister cried into her sister's waist, terrified of what was going to happen next, when the older one kneeled to her sister's height, and whispered to her “空が海を割ったとき、私が心からあなたを愛していることを知っておいてください どんなに強” The younger one whispered back “い風でも山を曲げることはできません あなたは私の妹です、最後まで” as the two of them locked their pinkie fingers together. This seemed to calm the younger one down, until a very large wave crashed over them, causing the older sister to lose control of the ship. Her body crashed into the side of the boat, as a her body faded in and out of consciousness. 

The younger sister cried again, as a much larger wave made its way to the ship. Seeing that it would destroy the boat, the older sister held her sister to her chest just as the wave crashed. The two of them felt themselves submerged in the cruel unforgiving waves of the sea. The quickly swam to the surface and grabbed any bit of sea wreckage they could, however, the older sister couldn't keep her eyes open much longer as her vision faded

“お母さん…お父さん…ごめんなさい…”

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Ithaca. Calm, Quiet, Island of Ithaca. The calm sea making its way to its sandy beaches never made its King and Queen more calm. Odysseus gave a sigh as he held Penelope, as she calmed their newborn son. She had suggested that they bring Telemachus out to the beach in order to calm him down from a earlier storm.

It was only a few days since Telemachus had been born, but to Odysseus, it very much felt like time just stopped. The moment that his son was born, was probably the best moment in his life…well next to when he finally married Penelope. It had felt that all was right in the world. Speaking of her, she smiled as she held their son, watching wide-eyed at the world “He has your eyes.” She said as the little prince gave a coo at his mother

Odysseus playfully smiled “He has your smile.” He said as Penelope leaned her head to his shoulders. “He is going to be a great king when he grows up.” He said. This caught Telemachus's attention as he reached his arms towards his father. Tears welled up in his eyes, as Penelope gently transfered him to Odysseus's arms. The little prince gave a happy laugh as the king held him “I would make the storm clouds cry for you.” He vowed. “I would capture the wind and sky for you.”

Telemachus smiled up at him as his hands gently touched Odysseus's face. Now the tears fully flowed from Odysseus's face in pride. Penelope smiled as well. She was certain that Telemachus was going to be the greatest prince that Ithaca had ever seen. “He certainly is his father's son.” She said. “And his mother's Odysseus said, letting the tears fully flowed from his eyes. “I wonder if he'll be ready when it's time to learn how to use a weapon.” She said. “Well he has his father to learn from.” Odysseus said. Penelope playfully raised an eyebrow “And his mother.” She reminded, making the king smile.

That's when the two of them saw something: Wooden Planks. And they didn't look like they were intact. It was WRECKAGE. The royal family felt their hearts drop. Were there any survivors? Any lives lost. Instantly, Odysseus began to remove the wreckage to see if there was anyone there. To his fear, and relief, there were 2 bodies. Both women…and one of them was a child

Penelope joined him and gasped at the two under the wreckage. Her eyes quickly met Odysseus and the two of them looked in worry. The king quickly pressed two fingers to their necks and gave a sigh of relief “They're still alive.” He said. Penelope gave a sigh of relief at the words “But barely…” he added. He pulled the two of them out of the wreckage. “They need help.” He said. Penelope nodded “I'll get the healer, you get them to the castle.” She said. Odysseus couldn't bear being away from his wife for that long, but who knows how long that the girls had? With a nod, Penelope leaves, as he lifted the girls up as best as he could, and took them to the palace.

When he arrived, the servants and guards all gasped at the king, hauling in two girls that looked like they had been thrown around in the sea. “Prepare a room for them. The queen is getting a healer to check on their condition.” He said. The servants nodded as they carried the two girls from his arms. And though Odysseus didn't see it before, he now noticed something, besides the strange type of clothing on the older woman:

Resting at her hip, was a sword

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The healers of Ithaca couldn't do much, but they confirmed that they could at least help the older one. Since she was unconscious, they could bandage the large gash that she had at her side from the wreckage. They also said that they should wake up in a few days…though a few days became a week, and the girls had not made a move. 

Penelope waited for at least one of them to wake up. Odysseus had just left to head to the town in order to find some medicine for them. Her heart ached for the two of them. To be thrown around in the sea and be found in a pile of wreckage, it was a miracle that they were even alive. She prayed to the gods that they would eventually wake up, and explain how they had made it. 

To calm herself, she had began weaving, and she had continued weaving until it was time to feed Telemachus, who had gotten hungry and now wanted his mother. She gave a small smile as she carried the little prince, and let him nurse on her his cries becoming quieter as he held onto his mother. Penelope gave a smile, Telemachus really did look like his father, and she hoped that, when the time came, he would make a great leader. And she hoped that when that day came, that she, and Odysseus would be there to see it. The day that he took his birthright for the crown and throne of Ithaca, and when everyone there could bear witness to their son standing tall.

Her thoughts where cut off when she heard a small noise that didn't come from Telemachus. She turned, and to her relief, the girl then began to stir, she gave a small groan as she slowly opened her eyes. Penelope felt some weight leave her heart as the girl began to wake up. The small child rubbed her eyes, before her eyes saw the young woman next to her and gave a gasp “女よ、女よ！起きなさい!” She cried, as she shook her. Penelope, through relieved that the child was awake, was confused when she began to speak ‘Perhaps she accidentally hit her head in the crash.’ She thought.

She gently put Telemachus down, and kneeled down to the worried child, who gasped at her presence and hid herself on the other side of the unconscious woman. “Hello child.” She said in a gentle tone. “It's OK, I'm not going to hurt you.” She said. However, her words didn't seem to comfort the girl. It didn't look like she didn't know what she was saying. “あなたは誰ですか？悪人のように私たちを傷つけるつもりですか？” the little girl asked.

Penelope gave a unsure look. This was bad. How were they supposed to help these two and ask them where they came from, if they can't even understand each other? “Your highness?” Came the voice of a servant outside “The king has returned. And he has the medicine.” He said. Penelope nodded to the servant as Odysseus walked into the room, a smile on his face as he saw the small girl was awake. “Oh good. The child is awake.” He said.

The little girl hid herself behind the older woman and she shook herself again. Odysseus got on his knees in order to make himself look less threatening. “Hello Child. My name is Odysseus. Can you tell me what your name is?” He asked. However, the child shivered under his gaze and shut her eyes in fear. “お願いします！私たちを傷つけないでください！” She cried. Odysseus blinked at the girls “words”. They didn't sound greek…in fact, they didn't sound like anything he ever heard before. “My love…what are they saying?” Odysseus asked.

Penelope couldn't give an answer. She hadn't heard anything like this before, and she had no idea what the small child was saying to her. But the two of them couldn't deny one thing: she looked TERRIFIED of them. The little girl shivered in their presence, clutching the older woman in terror, as if she would disappear if she let go, as tears formed in her eyes. That's when she saw the sword that rested at the woman's side, and with the grace of a new-born giraffe, pulled it out, and pointed it at the royal family…before dropping it because of how heavy it was.

Odysseus almost had to hold back a laugh, it was honestly amusing seeing the little girl trying to defend the older woman against them…even though they were trying to help. That's when the older one finally began to wake up, much to her sister's delight “女よ！目覚めたのね！” the younger sister cried in joy. The older one slowly turned over…Before she saw the royal family. Quicker than anyone had seen, she had pushed her sister behind her and kicked up her sword, which clashed against Odysseus's own blade. 

In a strong voice, she spoke “あなたは誰ですか？そして私たちに何を望んでいますか？”

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Nobody made a move after she had spoken those words…at least if Odysseus could even CALL them words. All he knew now, was that his own sword blocked up against this woman's sword, a sword that he had never seen before. The young woman narrowed her eyes “私は言いました。あなたは誰ですか。そして私たちに何を望んでいますか。” She said, a bite in her tone. And once again, neither of them knew what she was saying. Odysseus didn't let up however, as both swords didn't leave their position.

Penelope however, she recognized the looks in both girls eyes. It was the same look that anyone had when face to face with something out of their league: Fear. These two girls were scared, but what were they scared of what the question. However, she wasn't going to get that answer, with Odysseus and this stranger with swords clashing. So with a gentle arm, she placed her hand on Odysseus's hand, and lowered it. Odysseus looked at Penelope with confusion, didn't she see that this woman was holding a sword, and they couldn't understand what she was saying?

“My love. They are afraid. And if we want answers, them we need them to trust us.” She said. “And how are me supposed to do that, if we can't even understand them?” Odysseus asked, his eyes darting between Penelope and the two strangers. The sisters meanwhile, were worried. They couldn't understand these two, and they didn't want to end up in danger…but the lady holding her baby was making the man put her sword down. Maybe they weren't so dangerous after all.

The older sister looked between the man holding his sword, and her sister. Then, against every warning bell in her head, she slowly lowered her sword as well. Odysseus, seeing her slowly lower her weapon, did the same. Now that both sword wielders had lowered their weapons, Odysseus took a deep breath. “OK. Let's try this.” He started “Can you understand me?” He asked. The girls meanwhile looked at each other in confusion “彼は何て言ったの？” the younger sister asked. “分からない。彼が何を言っているのか分からない” the older one replied.

This in turn made the king and queen also confused. What on earth were they saying? Was it some sort of secret language between the two? A curse from one of the gods? Or maybe the storm was so bad that hit their heads, and made it so that they couldn't speak right. Either way, they didn't know what the girls were saying, and they had a feeling that the girls didn't understand what they were saying either. However, Odysseus had an idea. He left the room for a moment, and when he returned, he was holding some Papyrus and a pen.

He then made a small drawing of himself, Penelope and Telemachus (represented as little figures with crowns) before he made a small arrow, and question mark, and pushed the parchment to the girls. The younger one lit up, as she began doodling herself. Though the small drawings were messy, she drew 2 stick figures, one taller, and one shorter. Holding hands, and one of which was holding what looked like a sword.

The little girl then pointed at the smaller figure, and then herself, and the pointed to the taller one, and then her sword wielding sister. She pushed it back to Odysseus and Penelope. OK, now they were getting somewhere. Odysseus then made a drawing of the taller one holding a bundle, and then a question mark. He then pushed it back to the girls. The little girl laughed at the picture and shook her head while the older woman had a small smile appear on her face. The younger girl the drew a small picture of 3 stick figures. One of them holding the sword, and one another holding a small bundle.

She then pointed to the bundle, and then herself. “Oh…they're sisters.” Penelope whispered. She then took a turn drawing on the parchment, and put two arrows pointing at the 2 stick figures that weren't the girls, and added a question mark, before pushing the parchment back at them. However both girls seemed to frown, with tears forming in the younger's eyes, and the order's head Dipping down in despair…it didn't take long for the royal family to realize what that meant. The little girl then drew the two figures again, but their faces were frowning, and they had Xs over their eyes

She then pushed it back to the royal couple. Penelope wrote some question marks near the dead figures, and pushed the parchment back to them. That's when the older one took control. She kneeled down now, and she drew much faster then the younger one, but it didn't ease what they saw next. In what the older sister drew, it was those two figures, surrounded by what probably looked like fire, and other stick figures, with horns, and holding swords. Her eyes narrowed in disdain at the figures as her breath quickened. The younger sister held her hand to calm her down, but it didn't seem to do anything. In a split second, she grabbed her sword again, and jammed it into the picture, each at one of the figures with swords.

Her sister cried for her as the royal family jumped away from her. The older sister's breath shuddered as the Papyrus was destroyed…at least the picture with those figures on it was. She took deep shuddering breaths, as she muttered with anger “あの野郎どもは…私たちからすべてを奪った。”. The younger girl quickly held her hand as she said “空が海を割ったとき、私が心からあなたを愛していることを知っておいてください どんなに強” and wrapped her pinkie around the older sister's pinkie “い風でも山を曲げることはできません あなたは私の妹です、最後まで” the older said back, as they locked pinkies.

The older sister seemed to calm down before she turned to the royal family. She then kneeled down and bowed to them “私の恥ずべき行為をお詫びします。あの男たちは…私たちにすべてを失わせたのです…” She said, a tone of respect in her voice. And through the king and queen didn't know what she said, they had a feeling that it was…at least what sounded like an apology for her earlier behavior. Odysseus then drew on what was left of the parchment, and pushed it back to the girls. And they smiled at what it was: It was a small picture of them, protected by a shield, held by drawing Odysseus and drawing Penelope. The message was clear: The girls were safe here. The older sister then held her sword, and kneeled before the king and queen as she spoke again
“あなたは私と妹に慈悲を示してくれました。そのため、私は今、命をかけてあなたとあなたの家族を守る義務があります”

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It is now a few weeks since the girls washed ashore of Ithaca. They always kept a little bit of Papyrus on them, in order to use drawings to tell what they were saying, but it didn't change the fact that pictures could only go so far. Of course, the older sister didn't seem to talk to anyone besides her sister that much. She seemed to have a steely focus, and spent most of her time looking out at sea, or talking to her sister. However, those that DID see her, saw that she KNEW how to wield that sword she kept at her side…heck she might even be better than Odysseus! But it meant nothing If they couldn't even understand what she was saying…or that she couldn't understand her back.

But mortal affairs usually don't go unnoticed for long…

On a particularly good day, both sisters were outside. The younger one was watching the older one slash through a few olive tree branches. She clapped excitedly as she saw the branches fall, and the sister come down from the height of the trees. The older sister took a deep breath as she landed on the ground, sword in hand. She smiled at her sister's cheers before walked over to her, even stranded on a island far away from their original home, they had to admit, at least the king and queen were kind to them. “オンナ、君は素晴らしかったよ！” the younger sister cheered. “ありがとうお姉さん。” She said.

The younger one then ran off, leaving the elder sister on her own. She then took this rare moment of being alone, to meditate a little. She sat down near the tree she just had chopped the branches off of, and closer her eyes, her breathing slowing down as she slowly tuned herself with everything around her. The sounds of the waves crashing just a walk away the rustling of the trees the hooting of an owl-wait a minute. She broke her meditation, and peeked an eye open, and there she spotted a light grey owl, with striking blue eyes. It stared at her intensely and didn't make a move.

The young woman raised an eyebrow, she might have been new here, but…she didn't see very many owls. At least not ones that weren't carved into those statues that were around the palace and town. And usually, there was one that followed the king around, but she didn't see a good look in it's eyes…so what was this owl doing her? It hooted at her, before it swooped down and landed on the hilt of her sword. She stared at the owl, and it stared back. They stayed like that for a minute…until it then flew off. Now she raised an eyebrow, that was…strange. She had never seen an owl do that befo-

Her ears perked up. She heard something rustling in the bushes but she couldn't tell which way it was coming from. Her hand carefully made its way to the hilt of her sword, as she listened around her. She then suddenly swung her sword at her attacker behind her, when the strangest thing happened: Time around her seemed to stop, and her sword made a satisfying CLANG against a spear. The young woman looked at who was holding the spear, and to her surprise, it looked like the same woman that she had seen in the statues and tapestries around the palace. She had a helmet, and flowing long hair. She wore a beautiful dress, along with some armor.

The woman seemed to narrow her eyes at her “So you're the guest my Warrior of the Mind spoke about.” She said in a strong tone. Unfortunately, the language barrier proved to be a problem again, as the sister couldn't understand her. The woman spoke to her again. “He tells me that you speak in an odd way, and you and your…sister can't understand him.” She said. The two of them kept their weapons firmly pressed against each other. The sister narrowed her eyes. She didn't know WHO this woman was, but she still couldn't understand what she was saying, so she had to rely on her sword, at least until she could think of a plan

Unfortunately, the woman was smarter and quicker, as she swept a leg underneath the girl, knocking her to the ground, and making her drop her sword, as the spear was pointed at her neck “You appear on the shore one day wielding a sword, and a little sister. What intentions do you hide?” She questioned, a cold bite in her tone. However, the sister, while she still didn't understand, knew a threat when she saw it…and when she saw an opportunity revealed itself. Grabbing a small handful of dirt, she threw it into the woman's face, and kicked her way upwards, knocking the spear away. The woman grunted in anger as she tried to get the dirt out of her eyes that she didn't see her running away.

She ran as quickly as she could back to the palace, keeping her sword in her grasp. She needed to warn Odysseus and Penelope before that woman found her. She didn't stop or look back, until she found herself being attacked by that same owl again, now starting to claw at her with its talons, and hooting furiously “バカな鳥、逃げろ！” She screamed, knocking the owl away with her sword and running again. The trip was short as she finally reached the palace, and ran inside. She panted as she looked around for the king and queen “イタカの領主と領主夫人！逃げなければなりません！敵があなたの海岸にいて、私を攻撃しました。私はあなたを守るために急いで来ました...” As soon as she found them finally, all words died in her mouth. For Odysseus was talking to the woman that she just attacked...

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She charged at the woman again, only to be stopped when Odysseus wrapped his arms around her arms, preventing her from moving “放して!! 彼女は危険だ! 逃げなくちゃ!” She yelled, trying to get free and attack Athena “Odysseus. What is she saying.” Athena asked sternly. “I'm…not to sure myself Lady Athena.” The king admitted. “So. Not only did you let her in, and she drew a sword on you. But you can't understand her.” Athena said. “Yes. But we found a way to communicate…somewhat” Odysseus assured. He then handed the girl more Papyrus, gesturing her to explain what was going on.

The sister then began drawing quickly, as she showed Odysseus and Athena what she was saying. To his surprise, the drawing was of a stick figures with a helmet and spear (Probably Athena) holding a head with a crown (Odysseus), and a “decapitated” body nearby, with some question marks around it. Odysseus caught onto what she was asking: Was Athena a threat. Odysseus shook his head. He then drew him and Athena, her teaching him how to sword-fight. The girl's eyes darted between Odysseus and Athena, who narrowed her eyes at her. She then drew another picture of Athena again, and drew a picture of him and Athena in a heart, along with a question mark

Odysseus almost choked on the air when he saw the image, and Athena's eyes widened so much that she resembled an owl. Odysseus began to frantically shake his head. “Oh no! No no no no!” He said. He took the image and then put a LARGE X over it. The message was clear, they were NOT together. She then drew another picture depicting Athena, holding a spear to her neck from earlier. This made the goddess in question narrow her eyes. Not a moment she was expecting…and Ares would never let her live it down now… “Wait. When did this happen?” Odysseus asked. “Just moments ago.” Athena said “Just as I had managed to get her alone, she threw dirt into my eyes, and kicked my spear away before she ran.” She explained

Odysseus gave her a look “That's probably why she thought you were the enemy.” He deadpanned. Athena narrowed her eyes, before she turned back to sword wielding sister. “宮殿の領主様、申し訳ありませんが、彼女は先に私を攻撃しました。私は彼女を脅迫と勘違いしました。” the girl said. Now Athena raised an eyebrow, she may be the goddess of wisdom. But she didn't know what this girl was saying, as language wasn't her domain. But it was to someone else. She gave a groan as she realized who she was going to have to talk to.

“I'll be back.” She said to Odysseus, before she transformed into an Owl and flew away. The sister's eyes widened at the sight. And she realized this woman was the owl from before. Just before she was going to ask what happened, she found herself back in the forest, in the same meditation position she was in before she encountered that woman. She found herself gasping for breath as she looked around. Wasn't she just in the castle? And where did the owl lady go? Scrambling to her feet she ran back the palace once again, though this time, the owl from before didn't come down at her. Rushing to the palace, she found Odysseus and Penelope, the latter currently holding Telemachus.

She caught her breath, but she didn't see the owl from before. “彼女はどこにいるの？先ほど何が起こったの” She asked herself. That's when her sister came toddling out of the room. “お姉ちゃん？大丈夫？何があったの” She asked. “えっと…実は分からないんです。” the older sister admitted. The younger sister then smiled “あなたが来る前に窓にフクロウがいました！” She said. She then mimicked the owl “ホー！ホー！” she hooted. This caught Odysseus and Penelope's attention. “I guess Lady Athena met her sister as well.” The queen said. “Yeah. Athena met her in quick-thought, and she at first thought that she was a threat.” Odysseus explained. Penelope raised an eyebrow, not believing just how Athena, the same goddess who mentored her husband, could be seen as a threat…but of course, she was still the goddess of Wisdom and war.

“She left pretty abruptly too, so I can only assume that she doesn't know what our two…guests are saying either” He said. The girls however had left, mainly with the younger sister pulling the older one to where they were currently staying…and where a strange assortment of birds were at the balcony. There was a swan, a hawk, a peacock, a dove, a vulture, a crane and a Partridge “ここにはたくさんの鳥がいます！” the younger sister said. The older sister however, she narrowed her eyes. She hadn't seen ANY of these birds around before, but after that encounter with the owl lady, she had a feeling that these were no ordinary birds. Before she could get a good look at them, they all flew away. Now she was getting a suspicious feeling in her stomach…what was going on?

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Later on that night, the older sister had been avoiding sleep. Well. Less avoiding sleep, and more ‘keeping an eye out for any more weird stuff like what had happened before.’ Her sister already was now fast asleep, but she had been kneeling nearby, sword in hand, ready to attack or defend if necessary. Her eyes however were fighting sleep. It had been a long day, and her body was telling her that she needed rest, But her mind was rushing, determined to protect her sister from any sort of threat that might make itself known…wherever that threat may be. She glanced down at her sibling, a sorrowful smile on her face. Her sister was so young, to have to be dealing with this, but she was also strong…though she did wish she could have a normal childhood, make some friends, maybe even get into a little trouble.

Her smile didn't last long however, as she heard something. The grasp on her sword handle tightened as she looked around. Her breath quickened as she turned around to find the noise. She then heard something else that bounced around her…laughter? That wasn't good. Laughter wasn't always good. “誰ですか？ 姿を見せてください！” She shouts, her own voice bouncing around the room. The laughter seemed to kick up again, even louder than before. “Well well, Athena was right! There is someone here that speaks in a unknown language.” Said a smooth voice with a strange accent. Now the girl brought the sword out and held it in front of her. “Oh calm down, I'm not going to hurt you, or your dear sister.” Said the voice.

From directly behind her.

She spun around, blade in hand, but there was no one there. The girl narrowed her eyes. Whoever this was, was TOYING with her. She stepped backwards, looking around for the source of whoever was talking, but there was no one to be seen…but she still could hear the mysterious person laughing. “My. You take everything seriously don't you.” It said in an almost mocking tone. Now she was getting scared. Not only was this…voice in there with them, and she couldn't see them, but they were in the same room as her sister, her only weakness, the one person she vowed to keep safe until the day she died…and this VOICE was WITH THEM. She kept backing until she eventually bumped into something…something that tapped the back of her head and said in that same voice, in a firm tone.

“寝る”

And just like that, the girl's grip on her sword loosened as her eyes closed and she dropped to the ground in a wave of sudden exhaustion, gently breathing as someone landed near her, and smiled. Time for him to work his magic. A small staff with two snakes winding up it appeared in his hand, as he tapped it on the girl's head. He did the same with the younger sister as the girls slept. He then flew back out the window when his work was done. In the sleeping heads of the girls however, they awoke to find themselves what they could only could describe as “Above the clouds”. They saw the entire island below them as the moon was still high in the sky, but even more strange, was that where they were standing now, they were surrounded by the clouds, and the stars that twinkled above them.

The younger sister, though in awe at the sight, couldn't help but feel that this felt…off “姉さん？私たちはどこにいるの？” She asked. The older sister, now completely on edge, held her sister tight”わかりませんが、私たちが戻るまで私の近くにいてください。少なくともどこか安全な場所にいてください。” She said. “Oh don't worry, you're COMPLETELY safe.” Said the voice from before. The two of them turned around, and saw that there was a man there with a wide brimmed hat with wings on it, that covered his eyes. He wore flowing robes and carried a staff with snakes and wings on it. But more shockingly was that he wore sandals with small wings on them, that fluttered and flapped, letting him hover above the ground.

The girls stared dumbfounded at him, and he gave a laugh “I know, it's not every day that you see someone as fabulous as me dawlings.” He said. However, the sisters didn't seem to share that sentiment. “私たちは死んだのでしょうか？天国にいるのでしょうか？” the younger sister asked. At first the older sister was about to reply, but was interrupted when the mysterious flying man, flew over to them, and said “天国ではなく、オリンポス山の私の領域だ” He said in perfect Japanese. The girls gasped. Finally! Someone who could understand them! And they understood him! “あなたは私たちの言語を知っています！” the older sister said in shock. “Yes Dawlings. I can understand you. I know EXACTLY what you're saying. I might be the first one who can translate what you're saying in the last few weeks.” He said.

Now normally, the girls would not be able to understand a word that he just said, but this time, they understood EVERYTHING that he just said! “誰かが私たちのことを理解してくれるのは嬉しいことです...でも、宮殿の領主と領主夫人に通訳できたらいいのに...彼らは私たちの命を救ってくれました” the older sister said, looking down. The man flew closer to her, his staff tilting her head upwards “And that dawling, is EXACTLY why you're here.” He said. “I feel that it's time that I dispel that little language barrier between you and the rest of Ithaca. So I'm going to give you, what most Mortals BEG for: A divine blessing.” This made the girls tense up…not only did he keep calling them Mortals, but what was a “divine blessing”? “そして...具体的にどうやってそれを実行するのですか?” The younger sister asked.

The man just smiled, before the two snakes on his staff came to life with a sudden hissing. They then slithered off of the staff and towards the girls. The older sister was prepared to fight them off, even without her sword, but that's when the man snapped his fingers, and she found herself flat on her back, unable to move. “動けない！動けない！なぜ動けないの？” She yelled as the snakes slithered closer “Just relax dawling. Everything will be OK.” He said, his tone stiplayfully. The younger sister hid behind her sibling as the snakes now slithered upwards towards the girls necks. “You'll thank me for this, once you wake up.” He said. Just as the snakes bit down on their necks.

And their eyes snapped open

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When they woke up, the elder sister immediately checked her sister for any signs of illness or of death. After that, she checked her own neck. To their surprise (and relief) there was nothing wrong…there wasn't even a bite mark. After taking some deep breaths, they realized that it was now morning. Knowing that they might have been asleep for a minute, the older sister grabbed her sword, which had been lying on the ground, and made her way to where the royal family was. Though…this morning, she kept catching snatches of conversations. That's she could understand. At first she thought nothing of it, when she found Odysseus and Penelope in the main hall. She bowed to the king and queen in respect.

“Good Morning Lord and Lady of the palace, I hope that fortune finds you this morning.” She said. Odysseus and Penelope's eyes widened. “Dear. You can speak our language…” Penelope said. The elder sister gasped. She understood that as clear as day. “You…you can understand me! And I can understand you!” She gasped. “It's…It's Impossible!” She said. “Onna! Onna!” Cried a younger voice. The younger sister, ran to her sister's arms “I can understand everyone now! And they understood me! I asked for a piece of bread from one of the nice ladies! And they gave it to me!” She cheered excitedly. “But How Junsuina?” The older sister asked “Maybe it was that man from last night!” She said. Odysseus raised an eyebrow. “What man from last night?” He asked.

The younger sister, now known as Junsuina immediately explained “Last night I had a dream that we were in the clouds above the palace! And my sister is there, and there was a man with wings on his ankles, and he could understand us! He said that he would help us with the…barrier, thingy, and he had a stick with snakes on it, and then the snakes came to life and bit us on the neck! And then we woke up!” She said. The king and queen looked to each other, there was only one God who had wings on his ankles “Hermes…” he whispered. The older sister, Onna bowed her head. “I suppose…now this means that we can clear a few things that were lost in translation.” She said.

“Of course.” Penelope said. “Maybe that should start with your names.” She said. “You may call me Onna. And this is my younger sister Junsuina.” Onna said as she, and (but of course with a little encouragement) Junsuina did the same. “May we ask yours, lord and lady?” She asked. “I am Penelope of Ithaca, and this is my husband, Odysseus of Ithaca.” The queen said. “What about the baby that you had? Is he the prince?” Junsuina asked, “Junsuina! You don't just ask that!” Onna whispered. “I was just wondering…” Junsuina said back.

Penelope chuckled at their conversation. “Why yes. That was our son, Telemachus. He is the prince.” She said. “See! I told you!” Junsuina said. Onna rolled her eyes, when Odysseus spoke up. “Now it's our turn to ask a question: Where did you come from?” He asked. The sisters looked to each other “We come from Japan! From a small village.” Onna said “Yeah! But there were bad men trying to get us! So Onna used a boat to sail and get help! But the storm blew us off course and we ended up losing our boat…” Junsuina said, her enthusiasm dying a little. However, the words “Bad Men” stuck out to Odysseus “Bad men?” He asked. Unfortunately, this struck a chord with Onna as she gripped her sword tight. “Those men…then destroyed our home. And killed our family…” she said, trying to hold in her anger. “They took EVERYTHING from us…” she said, her body trembling in anger.

Junsuina then held her sister's hand “You still have me!” She said. Onna smiled at her “I do…And I made a vow that I would protect you from any harm. Even if it cost me my life.” She said. Onna then turned to the king and queen as well, and bowed respectfully. “I make this vow to you now, I am grateful that you have spared me and my sister's lives, and helped us in our time of need. As a Warrior, I now swear my loyalty to you, your family, your kingdom, and your honor, and I will protect your name and house with my life” She said. Odysseus remembered that she did this the first time when they were able to find a way to translate, but now that they could understand what she was saying… he turned to Penelope, and she gave a nod. Odysseus then turned back to Onna, who was still bowing, and spoke in a kingly tone

“Very well. As the king of Ithaca, I here by appoint you as the personal guard to me, to Penelope, and of course, to our pride and joy, Telemachus.”

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3 months have passed since Onna gave her vow to the royal family. 3 months, and she is still keeping her word, and following a small routine she had set in her head. In the early morning, when the sun barely rose, was when Telemachus woke up Penelope, when the sun had finally risen, Odysseus joined them. Then, in the midday, the royal family took a little time to enjoy their company, when there was nothing to do. When the sun began to set, Odysseus would leave his wife and child to finish a few royal duties, and then when the stars began to twinkle, they were all fast asleep, the king and queen resting in that odd tree-like bed that they were so fond of.

It had also been 3 month since said royal family had given her and her sister a room in the palace. Junsuina was overjoyed as she darted around the large room, before immediately flopping onto the bed “IT'S SO BIG!!!” She cheered. Onna chuckled at her antics “Yes it is! But you must remember, while I am protecting the royal family, we are also GUESTS here.” She reminded “I know…But we got this big fancy room!” Junsuina squealed. “...And then when you're too old to look young?” Onna asked. “I'm not gonna be THAT old.” Junsuina said, sticking out her tongue. “Hmm. I don't know…I think I see a few wrinkles…” Onna started before she poked a few spots on Junsuina face, side and stomach “I see some here, here, here!” She said playfully as Junsuina gave a squeal trying to get away. Onna then threw her younger sister into the air and the two of them laughed in joy. This was the first time that they had felt this happy in a while. But the fun didn't last long

A servant came then in. “Uh…Onna?” He said. The young woman in question perked up in curiosity “Yes?” She asked “The king and queen…they require your presence.” He said. Onna looked worried…what could be their reason? “I'll be there in a second.” She said. The servant nodded as he left the room. Onna then turned to Junsuina “I'll be right back. Until I am, DO NOT leave this room.” She said. Junsuina nodded her head as Onna left. The young Warrior made her way to the throne room, her mind still worried about what could be the reason that they had called her. The worst case scenarios playing in her head, from her being executed, to her and her sister being Banished for one reason or another…scenario after scenario played in her head.

When she finally reached the throne room, she saw Odysseus and Penelope, along with 2 other people she hadn't seen before, and both of them were men. One of them wore glasses, and had a cheerful smile, while the other one had a buzz cut, and probably one of the biggest swords she had ever seen. Penelope noticed her presence and gestured her to come over “Oh good! You're here. There are 2 people that Odysseus had wanted you to meet.” She said. Onna walked over to them. “Hey there!” Said the man with glasses. “...Hi?” She said. “Odysseus? Who is this?” Asked the man with the large sword. “I was getting to that.” Odysseus said. “Polites, Eurylochus, this is Onna. She and her sister washed ashore a few months ago.” He said.

“Onna, This is Polites, and Eurylochus. My brothers in arms.” He said. Polites smiled at her “It's nice to meet you Onna!” He said, holding out a hand for her. But Onna however looked at him, eyebrows raised. She instead gave a respectful bow. “It's good to meet you too Polites.” She said. Eurylochus raised an eyebrow at her. “Odysseus said that you and your sister washed ashore…where do you come from?” He asked. “I come from a small village, from the land of the rising sun. What me and my sister call Japan.” She said. “Our home was…destroyed by some bad men, and me and my sister were lost at sea, up until we reached Ithaca. And to repay the king and queen for their kindness, I've sworn to protect them.” Onna said.

“Bad men?” Polites asked. Onna looked at him ‘Wow…he's too innocent for his own good.’ She thought. “Yes. Bad men. They killed our parents and burned our village to the ground…we were the only ones left.” She said sadly, as she looked at the ground. The room fell silent at her words, as Polites walked to her and placed a hand on her shoulder “I'm sorry…” He said. “It's…It's fine. My sister is still with me. And as long as shes still here, then I still have something worth fighting for.” She said. Before her head turned “Speaking of her…’ she started before she walked over to a large vase. “Jun…I know you're in there.” She said as she gave the vase a small kick.

A small “Ow!” Was heard from inside as a little head poked of it. “Jun! I told you to stay until I got back.” Onna reprimanded “But I wanted to see what was going on!” Junsuina whined, as Onna got her out of the vase. “Yeah, well what if it was an ambush? Or an assassination attempt?” The older sister asked. “You have to be careful.” She said. “I know…” Junsuina said. Once Onna got her out, she then noticed that there were more people with the king and queen…and suddenly felt a wave of shyness come over her, as she hid herself behind her sister. Polites asked “I'm guessing that this is your sister?” Onna nods “Yep. Meet Junsuina.” She said. He smiled as he kneeled down to her level “Hi Junsuina…I'm Polites.” He said in a gentle voice, so not to scare her. Junsuina however, only understood one part of his name “Poli?” She asked

Onna was about to tell her the last part, but Polites seemed to like it “Yeah. Poli! Just call me Uncle Poli!” He said “Please don't call him that.” Onna deadpanned. “Junsuina smiled “I like you uncle Poli!” She said. Onna sighed “Ok. Looks like we're sticking with that.” She said as she turned to the others. Eurylochus was shaking his head, a palm to his face, as Odysseus was trying to hold in his laughter. Penelope just has a playful smile to her face as she walked to Polites. “Ok, Uncle Poli.” She teases as Odysseus finally let his laughter loose. “Why don't you come and see our son.” She said. Polities eyes lit up “Yes!! It's time to see the newest addition to the royal family!” He said. Eurylochus also took his hand off of his face at the prospect of seeing Odysseus's child

Penelope smiled as she led them to where Telemachus currently was sleeping. Polites felt his heart melt. He really was an uncle now! “Hello little prince…” he whispered, a small tear of joy leaking from his face. Eurylochus also took one look at the baby, and a smile came to his face. “He looks just like you…” he told Odysseus. “He'll make a good king one day.” He said. Odysseus smiled, but their words faded away as he gazed down at the little prince…his son…his pride and joy. And he'd be dammed and condemned to Tartarus if anything or anyone took him away from his family.

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A few more months have now passed, and the two sisters are still settling. Specifically, Onna didn't feel safe inside of the castle…it was “too exposed” in her eyes. Every night she felt eyes watching her, every morning she felt gazes that weren't her sister's…it made her feel unsafe, and it caused her to lack sleep. Junsuina tried to get her sister to sleep, such as her faking that she needed a lullaby, or pretending she had a bad dream, but even calming her sister's nerves didn't calm HER nerves. It got so bad that she ended up nearly falling over when she was supposed to be guarding Penelope and Telemachus…something that the queen took notice of. She carefully made her way to Onna, who was blinking in and out of sleep, her head nodding as she did.

“Onna?” She asked, causing her to now grab her sword and wave it at whoever her enemy was “IWASN'TASLEEP!” She yelled, waving her sword erratically. She looked around for whoever was about to attack her “Where did they go?! What did they look like?!” She yelled. Penelope gently lowered her sword wielding hand “There was no one, you were just falling asleep.” She said. Onna shook her head awake “No. NO! I can't go to sleep yet…Too exposed…too open.” She muttered, her eyes fighting to stay awake. Penelope raised an eyebrow. Did Onna really feel too exposed to sleep? Did the memories of these ‘Bad Men’ make her feel unsafe? She felt sorry for the girl, so later that day, she had gone to Odysseus, with a request.

“You want to build her a cottage?” He asked her. “Yes. Near the palace, that way she's close enough to still be near, but she doesn't feel too exposed.” Penelope explained. Odysseus raised an eyebrow. He didn't think that his palace was too exposed. But at the same time, Onna and her sister didn't come here by choice, they were chased into the sea, and caught in the wrath of water. Penelope saw him thinking, and decided she needed to show him what she saw. “Onna? Could you come here really quickly?” She asked. What followed was someone falling, and then someone scrambling to the door “Yes your highness!” She said, though it looked like she had just woken up from a unrestful nap, eyes red and tired and hair disheveled, even the way she held her sword was sleepily dangling in her hand.

Odysseus sighed, and Penelope made it clear a s day: She was RIGHT. “Alright. We can start tomorrow in the morning.” He said. “Wait…what did I miss? Did I do something wrong?” She asked “No, you didn't do anything wrong.” Odysseus reassured “Why don't you go and take the day off?” He suggested “You look tired.” Onna shook her head “No. I made a vow. I will defend you with my life.” She said “You can't do that if you're exhausted.” Penelope said. Onna grunted in frustration, she knew the queen was right, but she couldn't take chances. What if they were attacked right now, and they reached the both of them? She would have failed them just like she had failed her home before, and-

“Onna?” Came the voice of Junsuina as she ran closer to her. “Jun? What are you doing here? I thought you wanted to go and play.” Onna asked. “I wanted to find you first. It's no fun without you.” Junsuina replied. Onna sighed, her sister was stubborn…especially when it came to her. “Go on, have some time with your sister.” Penelope said. Onna nodded “Very well. Let's go Jun, I can teach you how to hold a sword if you want.” She said. Junsuina nodded excitedly as she grabbed her sister's hand. When they returned to the room in the palace however, Junsuina then seemed…different. “Alright Jun. Let me get my shoes, and then we can go outside.” She said “Actually sis…I wanted to talk to you.” Junsuina said.

“What about?” Onna asked “If this is about my sleeping habits, then I can just tell you it's nothing.” She said “Actually, it's something else, We've been watching you for a minute, and we need to talk.” Junsuina said. Now Onna was getting weirded out. “Uh…We? Who's we?” She asked. Junsuina's smile grew, before she walked closer to Onna, and two snakes appeared and wrapped around her ankles, tripping her. Onna falls on her back as Junsuina is now on top of her, as she placed a finger in the middle of her eyes, and said in a much more MALE voice

“Now. Sleep.”

And Onna's body finally surrendered to sleep

Chapter Text

Onna opened her eyes frantically, and she found herself…back home? Away was the large palace of Odysseus and Penelope, and in its place was the family cottage that she and Junsuina grew up in. The scent of Sakura flowers and morning Mist met her nose as she took in the clear blue sky just outside the window. Onna blinked as she gave a sigh, a wave of nostalgia hitting her. Was this a dream? Was the hell that she and her sister had been put through all just a nightmare? The sound of flute music broke her thoughts “Mother? Mother is that you?” She asked as she slid the door open, a smile ready as she wanted to embrace her mother again…but the universe was truly against her, as what she was hearing wasn’t her mother playing the flute, but rather the same man that sent two snakes at her and her sister the first time appeared to her again, playing something that sounded like a flute

“Ah! There you are darling! I was wondering when you were coming.” He said. Onna narrowed her eyes as her hand unconsciously went to where her sword was…or at least where it should he. “What do YOU want? Gonna send another snake at me?” She snapped. The man just laughed “Oh darling, that's no way to talk to the God who blessed you.” He said. “Blessed? You made a snake bite me on the neck.” She deadpanned. “Oh the past is in the past darling. But down to Business.” He said “The moment you and your sister washed ashore of my Great-Grandson's kingdom, you caused quite a stir on Mt Olympus.” He said. “Your great…Odysseus is your descendant?” Onna asked. “Yes. Odysseus is the grandson of me, the handsome. The swift, the best dressed on all of Olympus, Hermes.” He said, flashing a smile

“I see…” Onna said “But…What's Mt Olympus? I remember Junsuina, the REAL one, telling me about it, from Penelope, and that owl lady.” She said. “Yes well, Olympus is the place where all gods, like me, live, and my father, the God King, as well as the rest of Olympus, have been watching you, from the moment that you washed ashore.” Hermes said. Onna's eyes widened. Gods? Real gods? Watching her and her sister? That explained what she felt watched all the time. “And because of that you've caused quite a few things to change in the fates tapestry.” He said. Now Onna HAD to be dreaming. A God was telling her that her and her sisters presence was gonna affect fate? This couldn't be real. “So…now all the gods are trying to see what happens?” She asked, trying to see if her mind would come up with something.

“Yep! Athena and Ares are arguing over who gets to teach you, though Athena already has Odysseus, Artemis and Apollo are debating on whether your sister becomes an oracle or a huntress, Hephaestus wants to know how you forged your sword, and Hera wants to make sure you don't take Penelope from Odysseus.” Hermes said, as if he was spilling the latest gossip. Most of these names however, weren't familiar to Onna. But the idea of gods, REAL gods, meddling in the affairs of her and her sister's destinies…something about that didn't sit right with her. “Don't…I get a say in the matter?” She asked. “Eh…that depends. Do you want to know what happens when angry gods come down at you?” Hermes asked in a eerily cheerful tone. Onna tensed at his question “No…” She said meekly. If it were any other man, she would have shoved her sword down their spine…but this was a God she was talking to.

Hermes just laughed at her fear. “I already blessed you ya know, using my power to let you understand the Mortals of Ithaca, and them in turn understanding you.” He said. “But I have a feeling that this isn't the last that you'll see of me. Or the other gods.” He said. “Given what you just said, I would think not.” Onna said with worry. “Oh chin up darling! Favors from gods aren't that bad. It just depends on which God it comes from.” He said. Onna raised an eyebrow, were there some gods that needed to be avoided? Or feared. The room around them began to look less real, and more like a painting stuck in the rain, colors starting to swirl with each other, and her vision becoming fuzzy.

“Oh look at that, we've reached the morning.” Hermes said, as he sipped at his tea. “I imagine that my siblings have already tampered with that sword of yours, but I suppose you'll have to see for yourself.” He said “What do you mean ‘Tampered’ with it? What did they do to it?” Onna asked. Hermes didn't answer, he just smiled, and he began to laugh, his strange birdlike laugh, as the world continued to shift and swirl around her, and it just came an overwhelming wave of noise, screaming, crying, yelling, and shouting as the room got hotter and hotter and flames took over Everything and-

Onna's eyes couldn't snap open faster

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She gasped as she scrambled up. And saw herself not surrounded in flames, but back in the palace in Ithaca. She took deep breaths to calm herself, as the dream had gotten to her. The last few seconds felt brought back painful memories to her…all those lost from her old town as the bad men ravaged her home. She had to remember that she wasn't there anymore, she was in Ithaca, and now had a new vow to honor. “Onna?” Asked Junsuina, the REAL one. “Jun? What is it?” She asked. “The king and queen wanted to ask you something. They're making something for you.” She said. Onna raised an eyebrow. What could they possibly be making for her “They just said to come get you when you woke up.” Junsuina said.

Realizing that Junsuina wasn't going to give her some answers, she left so that she could seek them out herself. She found herself venturing outside of the palace, and towards the forest where she had been training for the last few months, following the trail of cleanly sliced olive branches from her blade. She could hear Penelope voice further down the trail, and then saw both her and Odysseus, who were overlooking something. Odysseus, who had heard her coming, turned around and smiled “Oh good. We were wondering when you were going to wake up.” He said. “Though now it's not going to be a surprise.”

Onna raised an eyebrow “What's not going to be a surprise?” She asked. Penelope smiled at her “See for yourself.” She said. The two of them stepped to the side, and Onna saw, that there was a small cottage being built, near the stumps she trained at. “Is this…did you…” She stammered, her grip on her sword loosening. “We both saw you losing sleep for the last few months. And your sister had also told us that you feel too exposed in the palace halls. So, we had a small cottage built, just close enough if we need you.” Penelope said. Onna felt something she hadn't felt since the day that she and Junsuina washed ashore: relief. She and her sister had somewhere safe to live, and she could still uphold her vow to the king and queen.

She kneeled down to them, ready to once again thank them for their kindness, when a messenger came running to all 3 of them. “Lord Odysseus and Lady Penelope.” He starts “I bring urgent news from Agamemnon.” He said. Odysseus and Penelope looked concerned “What news?” Penelope asked “It's not good. It's a order for all Achean kings, to ready their men for war.” He said. “Why?” Odysseus asked, his heart dropping at the idea of leaving Penelope and Telemachus alone as he was forced into war. The messenger looked up, his eyes small with fear.

“Helen of Sparta has been kidnapped.”

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Odysseus's eyes shrunk as well as Penelope gave a gasp, but Onna was confused “Who's…Helen of Sparta?” She asked. “She's my cousin, and the subject of many men trying to marry her.” Penelope explained. “But who kidnapped her?” Odysseus asked. “A Trojan prince. Named Paris. He kidnapped her, and stole a lot of treasure from Menelaus.” The messenger said. Odysseus paced, he had to find a way out of it. “Odysseus, you yourself did try to marry Helen before you met me, and you informed her father to make that vow.” Penelope reminded. “I know…UGH! Why couldn't I have just married you first before I met Helen…” he groaned.

“I'm just…I'm going to leave you now.” Said the messenger as he slowly slipped away. Onna stopped him with her blade, as she told him.“Tell this “Agamemnon.” That I will fight in Odysseus's place.” She said firmly. The messenger, who was more than a little terrified at having a blade pushed to his head frantically nodded, and booked it the moment that the sword was moved away from his head. Penelope walked over to Onna “Onna, I'm not sure that Agamemnon is going to accept that answer.” She said. “Whether he accepts it or not, I did make a vow, and I am prepared to die in war to protect your honor, and your family.” Onna said.

“I know, and I understand that, but there are two problems with that.” Penelope said “The first being that years ago, Odysseus, along with many other Achean kings had sworn a binding oath to protect Helen's marriage from outside interference, and he is still sworn by it, even though he's already married to me. The second problem being that many women aren't exactly…seen in war. The only kind of women that are like that are Amazonian, and even then, many men here will not see you as equal on the battlefield.” she explained. Onna grunted, she knew THAT. She was already underestimated before for being a woman, and had to prove herself…numerous times, so she shouldn't have guessed that this was any different.

“I suppose you're right.” Onna said in frustration. “But if you really did swear an oath, this Agamemnon isn't going to give up.” She said “You'd have to be completely mad for him to give up on you.” Odysseus's eyes widened at her words, as the phrase ‘Completely Mad’ echoed in his head, and an idea formed. “Onna, you might have just found a way for me to avoid my own oath.” He said, a smile on his face. Both Penelope and Onna were confused at this, but Odysseus left before they could ask him what he meant. Later on in the night, Junsuina was not very pleased at what her sister had told her

“WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU'RE GOING TO WAR?!”

That loud yell echoed through the entire palace. “Jun, I know that it's not the most…ideal thing for me to be doing right now-” Onna was cut off by Junsuina still angrily yelling at her “Onna! You can't go to WAR! It's WAR!” She shouts “What if something happens to you? What if you get blinded, or taken prisoner, or worse, get killed?!” She asked. Onna raised her head proudly, “I made a vow to King Odysseus and Queen Penelope.” She said. “Forget the vow! If you go “I'll lose the only person that still reminds me of home…I'll lose my only family.” Junsuina said sadly, a tear slipping down her face. “I hope Odysseus gets FORCED to go to war.” She grumbled.

Onna was about to scold her and tell her to take it back, but Junsuina had already gone to bed and turned her back to her. Onna gave a tired sigh. She knew that her sister wasn't going to talk to her anymore tonight, so she prayed that she would be able to talk to her in the morning. However, when the morning DID come, she was not expecting to see Odysseus, bare-chested, out in the middle of a field, with an ox and donkey hooked to a plow, all the while throwing salt into the field. She. Junsuina, and Penelope all watched in complete confusion. “What. In the name of the gods. Is he doing?” Junsuina asked “He's gone mad.” Penelope said simply.

“Yeah. I can see that.” Onna said, watching him still throwing salt into the fields. “But WHY? He seemed fine yesterday.” She said. “I think he came up with the plan of faking his own madness to get out of the war.” Penelope said, raising an eyebrow “It does sound like something my husband would do.” She said, as a servant girl entered the room. “Your highness? Agamemnon is here…he wants to know about the king, and the ‘Woman fighting in Odysseus place’ he said.” She said. “We'll be down in a second.” Penelope said. The servant bowed her head and exited the room. The queen sighed as she held Telemachus in her arms. “Well, let us hope that Odysseus tricks are as clever as he thinks they are.” She said as they left the room

Chapter Text

The 3 of them entered the throne room, as a kingly figure stood in front of them. “Penelope, how good to see you again.” Agamemnon said as he bowed, with Penelope doing the same…well the best she could holding Telemachus. “I wish we could have met under better circumstances, but I'm afraid that is not the case.” He said. “Yesterday I hear that my messenger had come back, and not only did he say that Odysseus had gone mad, but he said that a woman, holding a sword, was going to fight in his place.” Agamemnon raised an eyebrow at this. “Now I know Odysseus, and I know he's got years before he goes mad. But I also know that now that Telemachus is born, you can't be the one wielding that sword. So who is this person saying they'll fight for Odysseus?” He asked.

“I am.” Onna said, hand on her sword, and a steely gaze. She bowed to Agamemnon “I am Onna. Odysseus and Penelope helped me and my sister, and in exchange for their kindness, I have made a vow to protect the king and his family. But since then, his mind deteriorated, and as a result, I am willing to offer myself in his place to fight in this war.” She said. Agamemnon however was too busy gazing at her…shape. “I see…” He said “And tell me, what makes you think that Odysseus has gone mad?” He asked. “See for yourself.” Onna said, gesturing outside. The 4 of them walked to the fields, and they saw Odysseus…still throwing salt into the fields, now babbling nonsense

Junsuina giggled at his antics “Odysseus is acting funny!” she laughed. “Yes. Yes he is.” Onna said. “My poor husband…his mind is broken, he cannot go to war in this state.” Penelope said. “Yes…he can't.” Agamemnon said “So I'm afraid that he might need to stay here and-” Penelope was cut off “May I please hold your son?” Agamemnon asked. “Pardon?” Penelope asked “May I please hold Telemachus.” Agamemnon repeated. “Why does he want the prince?” Junsuina asked “I don't know, but be ready.” Onna told her. Penelope held her son close. Agamemnon wasn't one to just give up that easily, and she had a feeling that whatever he was about to do, involved her son. “Why?” She asked. “Oh…I just want to hold the little prince for a second.” Agamemnon said.

Onna held a hand on her sword, ready to defend if needed to. Penelope still felt some apprehension about just handing her son to Agamemnon, but…he probably wouldn't leave until she did. So with the upmost of reluctance, she hands Telemachus to the king. That's when Agamemnon did something VERY unexpected. He walked towards where the currently ‘mad king’ was plowing salt, and then, in the middle the path of the plow, he sat Telemachus down. Penelope, in her horror realized what he was trying to do. “AGAMEMNON STOP!” She shouts. “If Odysseus really has gone mad, then he won't know that his son is run over by a plow.” Agamemnon said calmly.

Now Onna was seeing red. She knew that putting a BABY in the line of fire was crossing the line, so in a quick burst of speed, she ran to the field, and cut the rope that was moving the plow, and scaring the two animals off. She then angrily pointed her sword towards Agamemnon. “I have sworn to protect Odysseus's house, family and honor from any who dare to harm it. And now I am going to make good on that vow.” She said, charging towards the king. Agamemnon drew his own sword and blocked her blade “Hmm. It would seem that You may be worthy of taking his place after all. IF he really has gone mad.” He said. The two of them began fighting, just as Onna cried out “JUN! GRAB THE PRINCE!!”

The younger sister quickly ran and grabbed Telemachus “Hang on your highness!” She said gently as they ran out of the line of fire. Junsuina returned the infant prince to Penelope as the 3 of them watched the fight. However, Penelope's eyes were darting between the fight, and Odysseus, who now, having lost the plow, was trying to stay out of Agamemnon sight. He had almost blown his cover, had Onna not cut the ropes on the plow, but now he had to make SURE that Onna could hold her own against someone like Agamemnon, especially since she had only gone up against him, Polites and Eurylochus in friendly spars, and when Athena tried to see what she knew in fighting.

But the way Onna fought was different. Rather than just charging like a wild bull, she moved with precision. Dodging Agamemnon's strong swipes with his own sword, as he growled at her to hold still. She knocked his sword away, and then swiped a leg underneath him, before pointing her sword at his neck. She spoke in a voice that rivaled Athena on the battlefield. “The king has gone mad. I will fight in his place.” She said, leaving no room for argument. Agamemnon, who was still reeling at the idea of a WOMAN being able to best him in a fight, relented…it would seem that there was no getting around it. However, words were just as powerful as weapons, and a sharp mind can even more powerful.

“So. You're saying, that you would protect the honor of a coward.”

Chapter Text

Onna raised an eyebrow and Odysseus froze just out of sight of Agamemnon's words “A coward?” onna questioned. “Yes. For you see, As one of the kings who once sought to marry Helen, he swore an oath to protect her marriage from outside interference, and now that the time has arisen to defend that marriage, he tries to get out of it. A cowardly move from the one who ever SUGGESTED it in the first place.” He said. This made Onna question what he was saying. She was a Warrior who swore on her word, so hearing someone who tries to escape their own oath was…a little jarring to say the least “But Odysseus helped us! A coward wouldn't do that!” Junsuina piped up, hoping her word could turn the crazed king away.

Agamemnon didn't back down however “So he decides to help two strangers. Who just HAPPENED to appear, and one of them is a sword wielding woman, who now makes a vow to fight for the king's house and honor…sounds like you might have other motives, like trying to sleep with the king behind Penelope's back.” He said. So soon as the words left his mouth, the world became a blur to Onna, her breath quickened as she found herself dropping her sword, as flashes of painful memories came back to her. Her eyes grew small with fear, as Junsuina came to her aid “Onna! Onna!” She cried, clutching her hand

Onna then woke up, but she still look disturbed. And Agamemnon took this opportunity to swipe underneath, and grab both his, and her sword and aim them at her neck. “Not so tough now huh.” He said “ONNA!!!” Junsuina screamed, as she tried to help her sister but Penelope gently held her back. Onna narrowed her eyes. This king didn't fight fair, but she was still paralyzed from his earlier words. Unfortunately, her position now also brought back flashes, as her breathing quickened, and voices and screams overwhelmed her

“...You should be honored…”

“...His Imperial Highness…”

“...Never forget why you fight…”

“...A woman does not wield a sword…”

“...When I say beg, you will BEG!...”

“...Run and don't look back!...”

“ONNA!”

That's when the sound of a sword being taken out was heard, and a 3rd sword appeared, one near Agamemnon's neck. “Step away from the girl.” Said the voice of Odysseus, an authoritative tone in his voice. Agamemnon's gave a victorious smirk “Well Well. Looks as if the king isn't that far gone as you thought.” He said, a smug tone in his voice. Onna looked up to see Odysseus, sword positioned at Agamemnon's neck, eyes ready to slash him down. Both swords were thrown to the ground, and Agamemnon got up. “Well. If you're done playing mad old king. I would suggest you begin forming an army.” He said, pushing Odysseus's sword away from his neck.

As Agamemnon walked away, Junsuina rushed to her sister, who still was in a panicked state. “Onna! Onna! Are you OK?” She asked. Onna only gave a shaky nod. “I…I need to go.” She said, grabbing her sword and running into the nearby woods. Junsuina followed after her, but not before giving one last glance at Odysseus and Penelope, who worriedly looked at each other, before she darted into the woods. She knew where Onna was going. Along with the usual spot that she went to train, there was also a small cliff that overlooked the sea. It's usually where she went to meditate, or to clear her head. However when she reached it, she saw Onna, her head tucked between her knees, trying to get her breathing under control.

“Onna?” Junsuina asked softly. “I failed…” Onna said “I failed to keep Odysseus's truth under wraps, and now he's forced into war…” She said, shame in her voice. Junsuina cringed. Now she got her wish…Odysseus would he forced into war, and she would have to stay behind. “Onna…its not your fault. It was that mean Agamemnon guy. He got you in a bad place.” Junsuina said. “No Jun…I couldn't. I just…” Onna trailed off, as she tucked her head away even more. Junsuina sat by her sister's side, it was a rare side of her sister that nobody saw, except for her. And the only people that DID see her like that…they're long gone now. Junsuina held her sister's hand. “Though the sky may crack the sea apart, know that I love you with all my heart.” Junsuina started. It took a moment, but Onna held it tight, and spoke “The strongest winds, the mountains never bend, I love you until the very end.” She finished.

The sisters gazed at each other. Though no words were spoken, they understood each other clearly. And they stayed at that cliff until the sun set, and the stars dotted the sky.

Chapter Text

A few months later, there were 12 ships getting ready to set off to Troy. Crates of supplies were being loaded, as 600 men readied themselves for war. Odysseus overlooked the progress from his place before he turned to his wife. “I will return soon.” He vowed as the two of them gave a passionate kiss. “Please be careful.” Penelope pleaded. “Make your survival mean something.” She said. Odysseus nodded, a determined look in his eyes. “I will.” He said. Telemachus, from his crib gave a small whine as woke up from his nap. Penelope gave a smile as she gently comforted him. Odysseus had tears in his eyes. He wa so ready to become a father to Telemachus. Ready to witness his first word, to see his first steps, to teach him how to fight and defend himself, teach him how to use his bow…and now he was going to miss it, all for the sake of the war about to take place in Troy. Penelope handed him to Odysseus, and at that moment, it felt like time had stopped. This might be the last time that the king would ever even HOLD his child. But to him, it gave him more incentive to make it through this war.

He gazed into Penelope's eyes one more time, before he was ready to board the boat, when he heard Onna quietly talking to her Junsuina “...And remember, to not follow anyone into dark corridors. And when I get back, then I promise to teach you how to properly wield father’s sword.” she said. Junsuina gazed at her sister, tears in her eyes. She had hoped that since Odysseus was going to the war, that she would be able to stay, but a few weeks earlier, he had asked her to accompany them, and with Onna abiding by her oath, she was duty-bound to say yes. Junsuina had BEGGED Onna to stay behind, stating that the queen also needed protection too, but Onna reassured her that she wouldn’t be away for long. This wasn’t enough to ease her however, as she didn’t stop following Onna for the weeks leading for when she left. Onna however, knew that this would happen, and she made a little surprise for her.

“Jun…I have something for you. Just until I get back.” she said. From behind her back, was a little doll with flowing hair. A few nights back, Onna had cut her usually long hair to the length of her shoulders, in order for it to not interfere when she fought, and knowing her sister needed a little comfort while she was gone, she had sewn the cut hair into the doll, so that she could always have a piece of her until she returned. “If you start feeling a little lonely, A little piece of me to remember me by.” Onna said. Junsuina took the little doll, and hugged it, before she then hugged her real sister. “Please don't go…” Junsuina pleaded one last time.

Onna kneeled down to her height and returned Junsuina's hug. “I know it's gonna be hard. But I'll be back before you know it.” She reassured. The sisters were in each other's arms, before one of the 600 men yelled out “WE'RE SETTING OFF SOON!” Onna released from the hug, but not without she and her sister locking pinkies “Though the sky may crack the sea apart, know that I love you with all of my heart.” She started. “Even in the strongest winds, the mountains never bend, I love you, until the very end.” Junsuina finished.

As they released pinkies, Onna walked over to where Odysseus was standing. “Last chance to back out. You can still stay behind and be with your sister.” He offered. However, once again, Onna shook her head “I swore an oath, and I intend to keep that oath.” She said. The king nodded, knowing that there wasn't any way that Onna would change her mind and back out. The two of them looked back, seeing many of Ithaca's people to see them off, but among all of those faces, Penelope, Telemachus and Junsuina were at the front of the crowd, all three of them watching them as they began to set sail. Onna stood at the front of the boat, as Ithaca got smaller and smaller, and her sister was further and further away now.

Now that they were out in the open sea, most of the men now noticed that Onna was on the ship. “Uh…Captain?” Asked one of them. “Yes?” Odysseus asked “There's a woman on the ship.” He said. Knowing that he was talking about Onna, he makes it very clear now. “Yes. She wanted to come. She is a very skilled fighter, and you will treat her as an equal. Understood?” He said, enough that everyone heard him. “Yes sir.” The crew replied. “Onna?” Asked a familiar voice. Onna turned and saw Polites and Eurylochus on the boat with them. She gave them a bow. “Polites, Eurylochus, It's good to see you.” She said. “You too! I didn't know that you were coming to Troy with us!” Polites said. “I did make a vow.” She said.

Another man walked up to Onna, as he eyed her EVERYWHERE except her eyes. “Hmm…What can you do?” He asked. Onna narrowed his eyes at him “I'm sorry?” She asked. “I mean, You have to be able to do something if the captain let you abord.” He said. Onna gave a groan. She should have known. 600 burly Greek men, and one Japanese woman…this was going to be a long boat ride. The man then spoke again. “OK. Can you clean?” He asked. Onna looked at him, and gave him a blunt “No.” He then raised an eyebrow “Well, can you cook?” He asked again, and once again, Onna gave him a blunt and bored “No.”

“Can you sing?”

“No.”

“Can you play an instrument?”

“No.”

“Can you weave?”

“No.”

“Can you sew?”

“No.”

“Can you make poetry?”

“No.”

“Can you blow glass?”

“No.”

“Can you feed us grapes?”

“What kind of question is that? NO.”

Now ALL the men grew frustrated at her “Then what CAN you do?!” He shouts at her, only to be met by the end of her blade. She gave a smug smile “I'm a warrior.” She said in a proud tone.

She walked away from the shell-shocked solider, and made her way to Odysseus, who was looking saddened at being away from Penelope. Onna gave him a small nod “Don't worry your highness. This war might not even be that long. We'll win, and then we'll be back before you know it.” She said. Odysseus considered her words. Yeah…It was many Achean kings against all of Troy…this shouldn't be too long. They'd be back in Ithaca before they knew it.

Chapter Text

10 Years.

It had been 10 Years.

10. LONG. WAR-FILLED. YEARS.

As of now, most of Troy was ultimately destroyed, and Paris had been killed, but it didn’t matter, as long as Helen was behind the walls of the city, then Troy won. Odysseus felt exhaustion begin to weigh him down. It had been a fierce battle for all of them, but they couldn't stop yet. They HAD to win. They HAD to get home. After a war meeting with the other kings, Odysseus had been pulled into quick-thought by Athena. Being the goddess of War and Strategy, she had been helping the Acheans, by telling Odysseus EXACTLY what to do. And for the most part it's been working…up until they needed a way to get into the last standing city of Troy.

She and Odysseus had been sparing, while the latter was still trying to think of a way into the city. “We can't just charge in there, we'd get arrows rained down on us.” He said, dodging one of Athena's attacks “Well then sneak in.” She said, stating the obvious as she struck him again “But HOW? Going over is out of the question, and going under will take too long.” Odysseus asked back.”Go through the gate.” Athena told him. Odysseus momentarily thought that Athena had gone mad “You heard the part of we can't just charge in right?” He asked. Athena just swept him under his leg, and got him on the ground.

“I DID hear that part, and I also know that they will let their guards down if they assume that you have surrendered and fled.” She said. Odysseus didn't know what she was on to, but she had a feeling she was going to tell him what to do next to get through the gate. Moments later, Odysseus had told the plan to the rest of the army…and all of them looked at him with complete confusion. “You…you want us to build and give the enemy a giant wooden horse.” One of them asked. “Yes. Yes I do.” Odysseus said, with a straight face. Diomedes gazed at Odysseus with complete confusion. “Maybe you really did go mad.” He said.

This made Odysseus look at him “This WILL work. If the Trojans think that we have surrendered and left, they'll lower their guards, and they'll bring it in.” He said “But they're not just going to believe that we packed up and left.” Menelaus said, as the Trojans knew how FIERCELY they all fought. “So we make it LOOK like we did.” Odysseus said. “Use the ships and make it look like we fled Troy. Burn down our camp to make them think we have surrendered.” He explained. “And…how do we make SURE that they take it into the city walls? They might just burn it to the ground.” Agamemnon said. Odysseus knew he had a point. “Then we have someone TELL them not to burn it to the ground.” He said.

Agamemnon rolled his eyes “Oh yeah. One of us is just going to walk up to the enemy and say “Hey Trojan Soldiers! We're surrendering! Take this giant wooden horse that is just here and let into your heavily guarded city.” He said sarcastically. “None of us can make it believable enough for them to take it into the city.” Menelaus said. Odysseus was now reconsidering the plan…when Athena whispered in his ear “You have something that the Trojans don't.” She said. Odysseus's eyes then widened as he realized what she meant. “Where’s Onna?” He asked. The kings glared at him “What do you want her for?” Agamemnon asked “I think I just found how we're going to get the horse into the city.” Odysseus said.

Everyone raised an eyebrow “You're going to bait them in with a pretty girl.” Diomedes asked. “She's not a man.” Odysseus shot back. “All men fall for a pretty face.” Menelaus said “Not Odysseus. The only pretty face HE needs is back in Ithaca.” Agamemnon said. Odysseus rolled his eyes and left, looking for Onna. “Captain!” Eurylochus called out. “What's wrong Captain?” Polites asked as he finished bandaging one of their men. “Have you seen Onna anywhere?” Odysseus asked “Nope. Not for a while.” Polites replied “She said that she was going to train for a moment. Keep an eye out for the enemy, she said.” Eurylochus added. Odysseus nodded and then walked off, but some of the men overheard what he asked “Why's he looking for her?” Perimedes asked. “Not sure. Maybe he finally cracked.” Elpenor suggested.

“Hey. Don't forget, she still helped you.” Polites reminded. “She's still a WOMAN.” Perimedes said rolling is eyes, as everyone that heard him gave a chuckle. “A woman who just so happened to be able to fight and kill. Better than most of you COMBINED.” Eurylochus pointed out. This made everyone fall dead silent. The second in command of Odysseus had a point, as Onna had made it a point to kill EVERYONE who posed a threat to the king. In every battle for the last 10 years, she had left a trail of blood and bodies behind her, slaughtering any solider that got to close, whole cities painted red when she came and left them…so much so that she had started to make the other soldiers envious in the army. But what exactly did Odysseus need her for now?

Meanwhile, Odysseus had found Onna, alone once more. She didn't feel safe sleeping with the other men, so she had began sleeping in the trees, in a further part of the camp. she was still aiming her strikes at the training dummies, for the next time she saw the enemy. Odysseus however saw that she was just as tired and as homesick as everyone else was, because she wanted to go back to her sister. The one thing that kept her going for 10 long years. “Onna.” He said. Onna's head turned to him and she bowed “Your highness.” She greeted “I was just training, awaiting your next command for when we strike.” She said

“Thats actually why I was looking for you.” He said. “We now have a way to get into the wall.” Onna's eyes widened, a faint flicker of hope that twinkled in the bloodlust in them. Ready to end this ridiculous war, and get back to her sister “Yes! That's perfect! What's the plan? We scale the wall? We tunnel our way underneath?” She asked. Odysseus gave her a look “Well first… I'm going to need you to hand over your sword.” He said. Onna could only stare at Odysseus, and give him a sudden

“What?”

Chapter Text

Onna felt her eye twitch. Out of EVERYTHING Odysseus could have thought of…this was his brilliant plan?! A giant wooden horse, and her offered as a war prisoner. “私は彼を殺すつもりだ。これは馬鹿げた計画だ、そして私は彼を殺すつもりだ...” she muttered. The Trojans had found her in the abandoned camp, and had taken her, and the giant wooden horse into the walls of Troy. She remembered the ridiculous conversation that she and Odysseus had moments before putting those plan into action

“Let me get this straight…you want me. ME SPECIFICALLY to explain to the enemy. To not destroy this giant wooden horse. That you all will be hiding in. And you want me to offer myself as a war prize, in order for me to convince them to get the horse inside of the gates?.” Onna asked. Odysseus gave her a firm “Yes.” In turn, Onna looked away “No.” She said. “I am not going to shame myself in a ridiculous plan.” She said. “Onna, This plan WILL work.” Odysseus tried to convince as they made their way back to the camp. “This plan is bound to fail. I'm better off dying on the battlefield, than offering myself up as a shame prize.” She said. “Didn't you make a vow?” Odysseus asked “Yes. But I didn't vow to give myself away. I'm a warrior, not a DOLL.” Onna points out.

By the time they got back, The rest of the men noticed how…pissed Onna looked “What's wrong?” Eurylochus asked “We have a way for the plan to work. But Onna, who plays a key part in it, won't do it.” Odysseus said “Of course not! It's a ridiculous plan and I want no part in it.” She spat. Odysseus raised an eyebrow, and decided to make Onna remember that he was still a king “It's not a request Onna. It's an ORDER.” He said. “The plan will work. Just play your part. And we'll win.” He said. Onna felt her eye twitch…but she knew that he was still the king. “Fine.” She spat. “Good. Now give me your sword.” Odysseus said, holding out a hand. However Onna shook her head. “No. If I have to give it up, I want to give it to someone I trust.” She said.

Odysseus, though he was a little hurt that she didn't trust him, even after 10 years of war, he nodded, and let her walk off into the crowd of men. She glared at them all, eyes narrowed, almost DARING to touch her, until she finally walked up to Polites. She then presented him with her sword “If this plan fails.” She said “If I die, and I never see my sister again. I want you to give this to her.” Onna said in a firm tone. Polites gently took the sword, as if she had just handed her a baby, and he gave her a firm nod. Onna nodded, but her eyes lingered on the sword, a faint sadness in them, before she walked back to Odysseus. “It's done.” She said, firmness in her voice.

“Good.” Odysseus, before he looked her up and down “Oh…one more thing” he started. Onna tensed, she had a feeling she wouldn't like this “What?” She asked…

And that's how she found herself. Outside a giant wooden horse, arms tied to it by a long rope at the neck of it, being hauled into enemy territory. IN A DRESS. ‘When this is over, I'm gonna take my sword and SHOVE IT UP ODYSSEUS'S-’ Her thoughts were cut off by one of the Trojan Soldiers cutting the rope from the horse, and using it to take her into the palace. Inside sat who she assumed was the Trojan king “Your highness.” The guard started “The Acheans have fled, we have won.” He said. The king however, he didn't seem convinced “We have proof, for we have one of their strongest warriors surrendered to us.” He added, his voice taking a more seductive tone.

Onna bit back a growl. It hasn't been 5 minutes and she now REALLY wanted to stab this guard. That's when she heard some more voices, most of them yelling “No! Wait!” “Grab her!” “No!” As a young woman ran out, her eyes wide with fear “YOU MUST KILL HER AND DESTROY THE HORSE!!” The woman screamed. The king gave a groan “What is she doing here? I thought she was locked up right now!” He hissed “She slipped by us!” Another guard panicked “HAVE YOU NOT SEEN HER IN BATTLE?! DO YOU NOT KNOW HOW SHE SLAUGHTERS HER ENEMIES?! SHE IS ONE OF ODYSSEUS! AND ODYSSEUS HAS A CUNNING MIND!!” She raved. The king however didn't seem to want to hear it. “Lock her away NOW.” He commanded. “PLEASE!!” The woman yelled “ENOUGH CASSANDRA.” the king yelled, his voice echoing. “I grow tired of your mad ramblings.” He said, voice devoid of any emotion.

Cassandra was dragged away by many more Trojan guards, as the king looked back at the woman who was offered to him. “Hmm…the mad woman does still have a point. She still is a formidable foe…” He said “However, she is still a woman. Make her a handmaid to Cassandra, she could use someone to listen to her mad rambles.” He said. Everyone around him chuckled as the guard pulled Onna to where Cassandra had been taken, but she took one last look at the wooden horse where unbeknownst to ANY of them, except Onna, Odysseus and the ENTIRE army, were hidden inside. Ready to make all of Troy burn.

Chapter Text

There had been a large celebration taking place, celebrating how the Trojans had won the war, and they all celebrated around the horse. At least, anyone who was OUTSIDE. Onna meanwhile, had been pushed into a room, one that was very elaborate and fancy, much like how Penelope and Odysseus's room in the palace was, but most of the windows were boarded and there were items thrown about. “Hey Cassie.” Said the guard in a condescending tone “Look. You finally have someone to listen to your mad rambling. Maybe you can scream her ears off instead.” He said, before he locked the door. Onna narrowed her eyes at the guard, and the door that separated them.

“YOU'LL BE SORRY WHEN TROY IS DESTROYED!!” Cassandra yelled, before Onna heard her sniffling “You'll be sorry…” she cried. Normally, Onna wouldn't care much for the enemy, but…this seemed different. Against all better nature, she carefully made her way to Cassandra “Hey?...Are you OK?” She asked, using the same tone that she would use with her sister, when she was feeling sad. Cassandra turned away from her. “You must be thrilled. The butcher of Troy, Stuck alone with the mad woman, ready to slit my throat in my sleep.” She spat. Onna raised an eyebrow “How did you know about Odysseus's plan? About the horse?” She asked

This seemed to make Cassandra more upset, as she yelled at her “YOU KNOW VERY MUCH WHAT HE PLANS!!! AND YET YOU QUESTION ME?!” Onna however stood her ground. She knew when something bordered something…her knowing war plans or not. “Answer the question. I may be the only one who will listen to you right now.” She said. Cassandra, who was still mad at her, took a deep breath, and did her best to calm down a little bit “I'm a seer.” She said. “I can see the future…” She said. “And though it's muddled right now, Apollo gifted me with visions of the future.” She said “But then he cursed me, so that no one will ever heed my warnings, as punishment for rejecting his advances…” She said

Onna was surprised, but she shouldn't be too surprised, as Gods, no matter where they come from, are known for not exactly being the most…trustworthy. “Is that why you're locked here?” She asked “Yes…” Cassandra answered sadly. “I've tried to warn them. About Paris taking Helen, would lead to the downfall of Troy…” She whispered “But no one will listen to a mad woman…now I'm not even sure if what I see next, will end with me in the underworld … because no one will ever believe me…” She cried.
The warrior felt her heart go out to Cassandra. The poor thing had been put through so much…and now her home was about to be destroyed by her allies in the horse.

The city had fallen asleep, and she looked around. She took a deep breath. “Cassandra, listen, I believe you, but if you want to live, you HAVE to listen to me.” She said. The young seer nodded “Good. Now listen very carefully. Any moment now, Odysseus and his men will emerge from that wooden horse and completely destroy the city. Many lives will be lost, there will be nothing left of Troy once the deed is done.” She said. Cassandra's eyes widened in horror. “I'm not sure if they know that you're here, but if you want to make it out alive, I am going to say that you are a war prisoner.” She said. Cassandra gulped “I-I don't.” “Do you want to live or not?” Onna asked, more sternly than before. Cassandra nods frantically, not wanting to be in the massacre of her city. “Ok. Then let's go.” She said.

Onna looked at one of the boarded up windows, and saw a small enough break for the two of them to escape from. “Is there any room underneath us?” She asked. Cassandra, still in fear at being semi-threatened nodded “Good.” Onna said, before taking some of Cassandra's dresses, sheets and any other form of cloth, and tied it into a rope. She then tied it to the door, careful not to alert the still celebrating guards and she and Cassandra slowly made their way out of the locked down room, and landed on a nearby balcony. Onna looked at the horse, and didn't see anyone come out yet, but she did see the eyes of it flash “Odysseus's signal…” she whispered. They were running out of time. Onna stepped into the room…and saw that it was a nursery. And there was a baby, peacefully sleeping.

Onna's heart froze like a hunk of ice. Looking down into the crib. Cassandra also looked into the crib and sighed “This is Prince Hector's son Astyanax…he had him, before this…war started.” She said. “He's just a boy…” Onna whispered. She held the bundle in her hand, and the baby woke up, his face lighting up and his arms reaching up to touch Onna face, eyes wide with happiness. Onna's heart melted at the touch, she didn't know a THING about children, but she couldn't just let a BABY suffer…and in that moment, a  decision was made.

Securing the baby in her arms, she quickly gestured for Cassandra to follow her. They made their way through the halls of the palace, and quietly made it outside, and to the horse. She gave a quiet, but well heard knock on the door of the horse. The door opened, and Perimedes was there. “It's Anna! And she has another woman and a baby!” He whispered. “It's Onna, Baka you've known that for 10 years, and they're war prisoners. She.” Onna said, pointing to Cassandra “Was planning on alerting the guards, to reveal our plan.” She said. “And the baby?” Eurylochus asked “It's hers. Her child.” Onna lies. Nobody seemed to think much of it, only with them letting Onna in, and them roughly handling Cassandra.

Polites gave Onna her sword back and she had her hand gripped on the handle so tight she thought she would break it. “Do we all know the plan?” Odysseus asked. Everyone in the horse nodded, as Onna readied her blade. “It's time.” She said. Odysseus narrowed his eyes as they opened the doors of the horse. And with that, Odysseus let out a battle cry.

“ATTACK!!”

And with that. Came the downfall of Troy…

Chapter Text

The battle felt like it lasted for years, but in just a few minutes, Blood was spilt in every corner of Troy. Fiercely and Swiftly, many lives were lost, many soldiers were slaughtered, meeting their ends with Arrows and Swords. The screams of those who were murdered were merely echos in seconds. When the battle was over, The acheans all gave a collective sigh of relief. “WE WON!!!!!!” They cheered. Odysseus however, he was relieved. Now they could all go home. HE could go home. He could get back to his family, his Telemachus, his…Penelope. Now that everyone was dead, the soldiers then raided every home that they found, grabbing any supplies that they could for the trip back.

Onna however, she walked through the city that they just destroyed, before they burnt it to the ground, she found herself in front of a temple, that seemed to belong to Apollo. Her eyes narrowed at it, remembering what Cassandra had told her, about how his unwanted advances caused her to be seen as mad. She gave a sigh “Poor Cassandra…” she whispered as she moved on. However, she stopped when she heard the sound of a Lyre being played. She slowly turned her head, and saw someone, illuminated in a light that rivaled the sun. The person in question had long blonde hair, and tattoos that glowed, through they looked like sun's and music notes.

“Hello young Onna.” He said. “I'm sure you know who I am…” He asked “Yes. Lord Apollo.” She said, a slight disdain in her voice. Apollo then gazed at the carnage around him “You and the Acheans put on quite a show down here.” He said. “You have a body count that would make Ares proud.” He states. Onna could only nod, as she didn’t know WHAT the sun God wanted…but she had a feeling whatever it was, it wouldn't be good. “What brings you here?” She asked “I just saw how you spared them.” He said. “Cassandra and Astyanax.” He clarified. Onna raised an eyebrow “Oh. You just now remembered the woman that you cursed?” She asked. “I remember those that I bestow. And I also know that you had your opportunity to end her, to end the bloodline of Troy…and yet you spared them.” He said

Onna looked away from the sun God. It was true, she really COULD end the two of them there and then. But she didn't… “Well…Yes. I may be a Warrior, but I know when some people deserve mercy.” She said. Apollo lifted her head up. “You certainly do know mercy, And for that, I believe that you deserve a blessing.” He said. “Why? I slaughtered most of the people that worshipped.” She pointed out “There are two left.” Apollo reminded. But this made Onna worried. What would he do? She didn't want to know, so she began to run back to the others. The light behind her slowly dwindling until she couldn't see it anymore. When she finally found the army, she did her best to hide her fear from Odysseus, who was wondering where she had gone.

“I had gone to see of there was anyone left.” She lied. “Always could be someone who…tried to survive.” She said. Odysseus raised an eyebrow. He was SURE that there was a light where Onna had just escaped from, but he didn't push it. Eurylochus then came to him “We have raided everything.” He said “Did you get everything?” Odysseus asked. “Everything we can.” Eurylochus replied “Did you get a goat?” Onna asked. Both men looked at her with confusion “What would we need a goat for?” Odysseus asked “For the baby obviously.” Onna said. “But…can't his mother just make some milk for him?” Eurylochus asked. Onna blanched. She didn't think that they would think Cassandra was Astyanax's mom.

“That's his SISTER.” she clarified. “Oh. Well, luckily we did find a goat, but we were going to use it for meat.” He said. “Well now we have two things for the goat then.” Onna replied. “I'm getting Cassandra and getting onto the boat.” She said. “Cassandra?” Odysseus asked “The war prisoner.” She reminded. Now Odysseus was getting a little suspicious…she seemed TOO eager to get Cassandra onto the boat. Onna made her way to the wooden horse, and saw Cassandra inside, holding Astyanax. “Cassandra?” She asked. The seer looked up to her “The battle is over, we're going to the ships now.” She said. Cassandra nods, as she gets up, gently handing her Astyanax. The 3 of them then followed the line of men carrying looted goods over to the large ships. And climbed aboard.

It took a minute for Cassandra to get used to being on a rocking boat, but she was able to get her footing soon enough. She then sat near a corner of the deck of the boat, and held the baby in her arms. Onna sat next to her “How are you holding up?” She asked “I just heard and saw my entire city get destroyed. How do you think I'm holding up.” She said. “Right…bad timing.” She said. “No matter…there's nothing left for me here.” Cassandra said, looking a little distant. “Well…maybe in Ithaca, you could be of some help. You are a seer after all.” Onna suggested “But I'm still cursed to be seen as mad remember?” Cassandra pointed out. “Well…I believe you. You were right about the horse after all.” Onna said.

“In fact…why don't you have a vision right now? What can you see, on our way back?” She asked. Cassandra raised an eyebrow, as if she was wondering if Onna was serious. When she saw that she WAS serious, Cassandra gave a sigh and closed her eyes…and didn't like what she saw. She saw many bad things happening from food running out, to many different encounters of monsters and gods alike. She opened her eyes with a gasp, as Onna held her shoulder “Easy…” she soothed. “What did you see?” she asked. Cassandra looked at Onna with fear “Many things will plague the journey back to Ithaca. The men will face hunger, Gods and monsters alike with serve as obstacles in your path.” She foretold.

Onna's eyes widened. This was BAD. But if this was the future… “Well then. We just have to change that.” She said. Cassandra gasped “But it's the future!” She said, “And it hasn't happened yet.” Onna points out “Which means that we can make sure it DOESN'T happen.” She said. Cassandra was shocked. Usually when she foretold prophecies, she was brushed off or called crazy. To have someone that believed her, and was determined to CHANGE the future, was a shock to her…but it felt good. She felt a smile come to her face. That's when Astyanax began to wake up. He sleepily opens his eyes and raised his arms towards Onna, a gummy smile on his face. Onna felt her heart melt at him again. And for a small second, she saw her sister when she held him.

“What did you say his name was?” She asked “Astyanax, why?” Cassandra asked. “I…don’t think that he should keep that name. At least not anymore.” Onna told her. This made the seer tilt her head “What are you going to call him then?” Cassandra asked. Onna looked down at the bundle, and a smile takes her face “Saisei. That will be his name.” She said “Saisei?” Cassandra asked “In the language from the land I come from, it means ‘Reborn’ she said. The seer smiled “I like that name.” She said “He'll be a good sibling…I wonder how my sister will react to him…” Onna said. “You have a sister?: Cassandra asked. Onna's eyes grew sad. “A younger sister…She's all I have left. My one reason to continue living…” She said. “But it's been 10 years. Ten. Gods-forsaken. Years.” She spat, as she remember the 10 years of fighting, the 10 years away from her sister. Her heart ached to think how her sister got along without her.

Cassandra placed a hand to her arm “She sounds like a wonderful sister.” She said. “I'm excited to meet her.” She said. Onna smiled. After 10 Years of only having MEN to talk to, it was nice to talk to another girl. She then saw Odysseus and Eurylochus boarding the boat “Are we ready?” She asked “We are.” Odysseus said with a smile “EVERYONE SET SAIL!” Eurylochus called out. The men gave a in sync “YES SIR!” to the second in command as they began to row away from the shores of Troy, and began their journey back to their homeland…

Full Speed Ahead...

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It had only been a few week since they have left, but time couldn't move slower. Onna had been getting close to Cassandra and Saisei. The two of them had become very close friends over the weeks they had been at sea. Cassandra and Onna both raised Saisei, as he had grown close to the girls. At the same time, Onna had told Cassandra of her life with her sister, and her old life before she and her sister had to flee. Cassandra felt sorry for Onna's situation, but she forsees Junsuina actually falling deeply in love with someone close to both of them, and the both of them getting married. This made Onna very happy, and very curious about who she meant.

“I wonder who it is…” She mused “I couldn't see just who it was, but I did see that she was very happy.” Cassandra said “Huh. I guess that my sister grows to be a very beautiful woman.” Onna said. “She gets it from her sister.” Cassandra says. “Me? Oh no. No no no. I was never meant to be pretty.” Onna said. “But you look beautiful. You've used your beauty to your advantage in battle.” Cassandra's points out. However, Onna shook her head “That's because men are idiots. I could walk out onto a battle field in nothing but a sheer cloth, and every man who saw me would drop their weapons.” She said. “But I was never meant to be pretty. Never meant to wear make-up or wear beautiful clothing, or be made to marry anyone.” She said.

Cassandra raised an eyebrow. She may not have been the most beautiful woman in the world (like that cursed Helen that destroyed her home) but she thought that Every girl wanted to look pretty. Oh well. Onna must have been the only exception. Suddenly, she started to get a vision again. But this came when she looked directly at Onna. She saw Apollo and Aphrodite, both of them directing their power at her, and in turn, Onna looked different, her hair, down to her ankles, braided in gold and flowers, tattoos decorating her body, and decked out in fine clothes, but she still held her sword proudly as she threw herself at a army of 108 men. “Cassandra?! Cassandra!” Onna shouts as she tried to wake her up.

Cassandra finally came back as she stared at Onna “What happened? What did you see?” She asked. Cassandra felt terrified for her. A God's blessing could become a curse at any given moment, considering what happened with Apollo, and what Aphrodite did that sparked the entire war. “Apollo and Aphrodite are coming for you.” She said. Onna's eyes shrunk in fear “Why? What for?” She asked. “I don't know. But just be prepared, for they will “bless” you soon.” Cassandra warned, eyes still widened.

Later that night, Onna had tried to keep herself awake. She wanted to be prepared to fight if she needed too…though what she could do against a God was questionable. She was worried though, since she did run away from Apollo before they had left Troy. Was he mad? Was he going to curse her like he did with Cassandra? Or do something worse? And he was bringing a goddess with him. One that didn't take anyone looking more beautiful than them. The thought that a God and goddess might take her away from her sister after 10 years terrified her. She took deep breaths. As she calmed herself. “OK…Just calm down…” she told herself “Just get a little sleep, and your mind will be straight” she said.

She closed her eyes, finally letting sleep catch up with her. But as she finally closed her eyes, Apollo and Aphrodite appeared above her. Apollo had been a little disappointed when Onna had run off, but hearing her saying that she wasn't meant to be beautiful made him laugh. She was pretty, but she weaponized her beauty in order to kill her enemies. However, he saw how she looked at makeup with disdain, how she constantly made her hair short, and how she glared at Helen the first time she saw her and she quietly muttered ‘THIS is why we've been at war?’ Aphrodite looks down at the sleeping beauty. “So this is the little mortal that had destroyed half of Troy.” She said. Apollo nodded “Yes. But she also spared the little prince of Hector, and my…former love.” Apollo said

“And…you say that you want to “bless” her with beauty.” Aphrodite asked. “A pretty face like hers shouldn't be wasted in battle. It should be used for much more.” He said. Aphrodite didn't look convinced. “And I'll let you help when it's time for her sister to find love.” Apollo added. Now Aphrodite bore a smile “You've convinced me.” She said. The two of them then looked down at the sleeping Onna, as two marks appeared: a small heart mark on her cheek, and Apollo a music note mark on her back. At the same time, her body shifted and changed, her shape changing and features transforming. The two gods, satisfied with their work nodded and went back to Olympus.

When Onna woke up that morning, she felt…off. Warmth coursing through her veins, and it felt as if she had been kissed on the cheek. It also felt as if she had trained too hard, as her body felt INCREDIBLY sore. “Maybe being on a boat for too long is messing with me…” she thought. She got up, and made her way up to the deck. “Morning Cassandra.” She greeted, but Cassandra's tone spooked her “The gods made quick work of you I see.” She said. Onna walked back to her “What do you mean?” She asked “You were visited by them. Apollo and Aphrodite. They blessed you. Marked you.” She said. Onna then wildly checked her neck. And felt relief that there was nothing there. “Where did they mark me?” She asked.

“You'll see.” Cassandra told her. Onna's mind was racing…what did they do? However, she didn't get time to think about that, because now, there was a much bigger problem, the moment the words came from Eurylochus:

“Captain. We're out of supplies.”

Chapter Text

Odysseus took a deep sigh. He thought that they had enough to make it back to Ithaca, but it looks like he was wrong. As Empty barrels and crates Met them.”Captain? What's the plan.” Eurylochus asked, the rest of the men wondering the same thing. “Follow the birds. They'll lead us to land.” He said. Eurylochus raised an eyebrow, but Odysseus had kept them alive for this long, so he wasn't going to question his judgement. “Good morning your highness.” Came the voice of Onna behind them as she bowed. “Good Morning Onna.” Odysseus said. “Onna.” Eurylochus said simply. “I overheard what you said. Are we really out of food?” She asked “Unfortunately yes.” Odysseus replied. “But we'll get more soon.” He said.

“Why don't we just fish?” She asked. But Odysseus shook his head “No. The sea already works against us. No fishing.” He said. Onna sagged. They were surrounded by fish…but they couldn't eat a single one… “Captain! Look!” Called Polites, as he pointed to something. The 3 of them saw what he was. “Out in the distance, there's an island with a faint light!” He said “Maybe there's some people there making camp, and they have food that they can share with us!” He said. Odysseus narrowed his eyes at the island “Hmm…I'm not sure. There's light but no smoke.” He said. “What kind of fire makes no smoke?” He asked “I say we strike now. We take what we can.” Eurylochus said firmly. But Polites looked horrified “Hasn't there been enough bloodshed and murder?” He asked “Haven't we been through enough?”

The two of them got into a staring contest with each other “Odysseus. Maybe you should scout the island. Make sure that it's safe.” Onna whispered to Odysseus. He nods “Polites. Gear up. Me you and Onna are checking out the island.” Odysseus ordered. Polites beamed while Eurylochus looked worried. “Captain, We have no idea whats on that island. What if something goes wrong?” He asked. “Just give us until Sunrise. If we're not back, then we can strike.” Odysseus said. Eurylochus nods as the boat made its way to the glowing island. Onna readies her sword, as Polites and Odysseus grab their own weapons. However, just before they reached the shore, Onna went to Cassandra. The seer was holding Saisei, but she looked lost in thought

“I'm going with Polites and Odysseus.” She said. Cassandra looked up at her “Be careful…” she said, her tone haunting “The Lotus is sweet, but it's influence is strong.” She said. Onna tilted her head a little “Lotus?” She asked “The fruit that grows in that island. Many have eaten it. And many have stayed there, as the world passed them by.” Cassandra explained. “And the Lotus eaters. They will try to convince you to eat it.” She said “When you fall down, they'll drag you to their village, your body sore, but now colorful.” She said. Onna blinked at what Cassandra had told her, but it shouldn't be too hard to avoid these “Lotus”. “Thank you for the warning Cassandra.” She said with a nod. “I'll be sure to be on the lookout for the Lotus fruit, and for these “Lotus Eaters” as well.” She said.

The boat then reached the beach of the island, and the 3 of them walked onto the sandy shore. “We'll be back!” Polites said “Remember, if we're not back by sunrise, gather the men, and set fire to the island.” Odysseus told Eurylochus. The second in command nodded as Onna walked off the boat, Cassandra's warning bouncing in her head ‘Just stay away from the Lotus and the Lotus Eaters…’ she thought. ‘That's easy enough’ she thought. “Onna. Let's go.” Odysseus commanded. She nodded, and the 3 of them made their way into the unfamiliar territory, to find the source of the light, and with luck, Supplies for the rest of the fleet

Chapter Text

The 3 of them ventured deeper and deeper into the jungle on the island. They hadn't seen any sign that there were any people yet, but it was the best option that they had right now. “You can relax my friends.” Polites said. Odysseus and Onna looked at him with a confused look. “Huh?” They both asked. “You two have been so tense since the war, but we're on this nice island, so you can calm down a little.” He said, placing a hand on Odysseus's shoulders. “I'm fine Polites.” Odysseus claimed, pushing his hand away.

“Oh come on! I know that you're both tired, and want to get back to Ithaca, but is this really the way we're suppose to live? Paranoid of every little thing?” He asked. “Polites, that's not WHY. This is unfamiliar territory.” Onna said. “But there's no threat! No problems. We can relax a little” Polites said. “Easy for you to say.” Onna muttered, Cassandra's words still bouncing in her head. ‘We haven't come across anyone here yet…but where is the Lotus?’ She thought. “C'mon you guys! We can relax here!” Polites said “I mean, Look at you, gripping your swords like lifelines, What if who we meet here is friendly? What if they get scared off by some scary people wielding swords?” He asked.

Polites noticed a nearby waterfall, and a cheeky smile graced his face. “Hey Ody…” he started “Remember when we were boys?” He asked. “No Polites.” Odysseus said, trying to not fall off into the waterfall. Onna followed behind them as she saw how Polites acted “Oh come on! You remember! How we used to play by that river, and how you always claimed that there were Nymphs in it.” He said. Odysseus looked away, but Onna was curious at the little memory. “Is that true?” She asked “Oh yeah! He used to do it all the time when we were kids!” Polites said. “Polites, stop it. That's an order.” Odysseus said firmly, but that's when Polites held his shoulders.

“And I always remember, that we would find them together, by both…diving…IN!” He shouts as the two of plummeted into the water. Odysseus didn't even have enough time to yell as they plunged underneath the calm river. “ODYSSEUS! POLITES!” Onna shouts, as she kneeled on the log that they were just on. The two of them then popped out of the water, Polites looking more enthused than Odysseus was, as the king was giving his best friend a death glare. “I'm going to end you.” He said simply. “You know you wouldn’t!” Polites jokingly said. “Are YOU TWO ALRIGHT?” Onna shouts over the roar of the waterfall “WE'RE FINE! BUT BE CAREFUL, AND TRY AND FIND ANOTHER WAY DOWN!!” Odysseus shouts above.

“GOT IT!” Onna replied as she began to make it across the waterfall to try and meet them down there, but the forest seemed to get denser the more she went down. She eyed her options. As much as she didn't like the idea of unfamiliar territory, with this “Lotus” around…she didn't want to take the same way Odysseus and Polites went down. So taking her chances, she went deeper into the forest. Odysseus and Polites meanwhile, dragged themselves out of the river. Well…it was more Polites cheerful getting out of the water, and Odysseus plotting how to get back at him when they returned to the ship…at least, if they found some supplies “See! Life itself can be amazing if you just greet it with open arms!” He said

Odysseus rolled his eyes. Polites's motto for life is that everything was trustworthy, and that everyone could trust them. “Greet the world with open arms” He said. A somewhat foolish motto, he thought…but that was what made Polites Polites. He couldn't be mad though, he was the one thing that balanced out what Eurylochus thought, attack now, think later. Eurylochus assumed that everything was an obstacle. Everything needed to be taken care of Swiftly and with as much damage as possible. His stoicism and readiness to battle is what made him and Polites butt heads sometimes, but, I guess that's why he needed both of them

“WELCOME!”

Onna meanwhile ventured a little while, trying to find another way down the waterfall, when she came across a tree with some strange looming fruit. She couldn't identify it, but it smelled sweet. TOO sweet. She looked around, and those trees seemed to go on for MILES. “What are these?” She asked herself as she picked one off of the trees and broke it open. As soon as she did, she was hit with the overwhelmingly sweet scent again, and she felt her eyes grow tired, her mind feeling more relaxed. She shook her head as she made her way to a tree. “Must…find…the men…” she struggled as she tried to get her footing right, but tripped and laid in the grass near another one of those trees. Her eyelids as heavy as lead.

She just wished she could have kept them open longer, or she would have seen some shadows above her

Chapter Text

Onna felt herself come to very slowly, as she was trying to find…who was she trying to find again? She was sure the answer would come to her sooner or later, but for some reason her body felt VERY sore. Her vision blurred as she carefully woke up, and a smiling female face was looking down at her. “Hello.” She said gently. Now Onna was fully awake as she scrambled upwards, hand ready to use her sword “STAY BACK!” She shouts, as she reached for her sword…only to not find it anywhere. She then sees that there were 4 people in the room with her. All of them had this…strange look in their eyes that were above smiles “Easy now…” said a woman who had a lotus in her hair “We had just found you asleep in the jungle, and we couldn't leave you out in the cold.” She said.

“We brought you to our village, closer to the heart of the island.” Said another, a young man who ALSO was wearing a lotus. “You poor thing, you must have been out at sea for so long…” said another young woman. Onna, though still on her guard, gave a weary nod. “Uh…year. I was in a long war for 10 years” She said. “A war! That must have been awful…” said the first of them. “Yeah, and we just left. We came to here looking for food for the rest of the army, and-THE ARMY! I have to get back to them!” She cried, and rushed to leave, when one of them gently grabbed her arm. “Gently now.” The first woman said, “Your body may need to rest for a second.” She said

“Rest? Rest why?” Onna asked, before she took a closer look at her arm, and saw colorful ink poking out of it. She recognized it as the kind of ink used in tattoos. She then rolled up her sleeve and saw that it was COMPLETELY decked out in Lotus themed markings. Swirls and petals adorned her arm as she looked in horror in at the gold and pink markings “You TATTOOED me?!” She cried. “Well, you were asleep. And the lotus helps with the pain.” Said the man. Her eyes widened in horror as she then took a look under her clothes, and gasped when she saw almost ALL of her body now adorned the lotus tattoos. “No, no no no no no! I can't go back to the others like this!” She said, as she frantically tried to rub the markings away.

The other woman came up to her and gently placed her hands on her shoulders. “Don't worry, you're safe here.” She said “You could always stay here with us.” She added, placing a lotus into Onna's short hair. Onna shook her head “No! It's taken me 10 years to fight in a war to see my sister again and I'm not letting anything stop me!” Onna said as she walked outside. “So…thank you for the…tattoos, and flower, but I have to find my friends.” She said. She walked out of the Hut she was in, and saw that there really was a small village. The loud shouting of children reaching her ears. A terrifying thought rang in her head. ‘The Lotus is Sweet…But it's influence is strong…’ Cassandra's words echoed ‘And the Lotus Eaters will try to convince you to eat it…’ she remembered.

“These are the Lotus eaters…” She muttered. She had been so deep on thought that she didn't notice the group from before now came out of the Hut. “You look a little stressed…” said the woman. “And hungry…” said another, before two more of them offered her a basket of more of that glowing fruit. “Here, try some of the fruit.” Said the woman, handing her one of them. Onna immediately shook her head “N-No thanks, I'm Ok.” She said, but another man offered her another one “You should REALLY try some of the fruit.” He said “Uh. I can't…” She said, moving away from them. “I just need to find my stuff, and find my friends.” She said “There are more of you here?” The woman asked.

Onna nods “Yes. We came here looking for food. But we can't eat the Lotus fruit.” She said “We need ACTUAL food. For 600 men.” The Lotus Eaters looked at each other. “That's a lot of food…” the woman said. “There is the cave-!” A younger child said, when all of them shushed him in fear. “What cave?” Onna asked. The entire village went quiet with fear, and she had a feeling that there was something they didn't want her to know “What's wrong? Is there a cave or not?” She asked. “There is a cave…” the woman said. “And in that cave, there is a flock of sheep.” She said “Great! That should feed everyone!” Onna said in relief “But the flock is guarded by a beast that dwells inside the cave.” The woman added. Now Onna was concerned

“A…beast?” She asked “What beast is it?” She asked. However, all she got as answer was the entire village holding their hands over one of their eyes. This scared Onna…one eye? A beast, that scared all of them with one eye? What would this mean if they tried to go and get the sheep? Would they…she didn't want to think about what might happen if they failed, so she instead gave a bow “Thank You.” She said. Onna turned to leave, when she remembered “Um…where's my sword?” She asked. “Here ya go!” Said a young child, handing Onna the blade. She smiled at the kid and ruffled his hair. “Thank you.” She said. The entire village watched as she left, when another kid handed her a small basket of the fruit

“Just in case.” She said. Onna eyed the basket, as this was the cursed fruit that Cassandra had warned her about, but she couldn't refuse. Maybe she could use it to keep the other men from annoying her. “Uh…thanks.” She said, gently taking the basket from the child's arms. She then made her way back into the dense jungles, and to her surprise, found Polites and Odysseus.

And they were surrounded.

Chapter Text

“Onna!” Polites greets. Odysseus, who had been holding his sword, looked up, relief in his eyes. “There you are! Where have you been?!” He asked. “It's a long story, but what is going on right now?! What are these things?!” Onna asked, hands still on the basket. “I. I don't know. They just appeared!” Odysseus said. “My friends…greet the world with open arms.” Polites said. Odysseus didn't let up however “We're only here for food.” He said to the small creatures that surrounded them. “FOOD…” They all mimicked, but they all shrink back as Odysseus eyed them. “We just need enough to feed 600 men.” He said. The little creatures came closer again “Stay back I'm warning you!” Odysseus threatened.

As he did however, a few of them took the basket that Onna was holding, and handed it to the duo. “HERE YA GO!” They all said in unison. “See! I told you! Open arms!” Polites said with a smile. “Uh…Polites. You may not want to eat that fruit.” Onna warned. “It's Lotus fruit.” She said “I found a small village, and they all eat this fruit…but they were all out of it.” She said. Odysseus sighed “And THATS what we get with open arms…” He said. “But they did tell me something.” Onna adds “Somewhere nearby, there's a cave. A cave with sheep in it.” She said. Both of them lit up “There is?” Polites asked, one of the little creatures on his shoulder. The small creature however said quickly “scary cave…” “There is.” Onna said “But they said that there was something there guarding the sheep…a beast” She explained.

“Did they tell you what this beast was?” Odysseus asked “No. All they did was this.” Onna said, mimicking what the villagers had done when she asked them. The two men looked at each other in worry… “Maybe…maybe they just did that to scare you.” Odysseus said “Hoard the food to themselves “But they all looked terrified when the cave was even mentioned...” Onna points out, remembering just how terrified they all looked, shushing that one child out of fear. “People do a lot of things.” Odysseus sighed. “But food is food, and we have an idea of where to find some now.” He said. Polites gave a annoyed Huff, when the little creature on his shoulder tilted its head. He gently grabbed its “It's nothing…” he said gently.

He attempted to let it go back with the others, but it seemed dead set about staying with him. “You wanna come with me?” Polites asked “STAY WITH NICE MAN” It said, hugging his hand. Polites smiled at the small creature. At least it wasn't dangerous. He made his way to Odysseus, who was looking out over the beach, where the fleet waited for them “Life really can be amazing when you greet it with open arms.” He said. “And I can see it in your faces, that you're tired, there so much guilt in you and Onna's hearts from this war.” He said. Odysseus gazed at his best friend, and he started to…consider his words. “Open arms…” he murmured.

Polites smiled “You can relax my friend.” He told him. Odysseus felt himself relax, for probably the first time in 10 years. Yeah…Polites was right. Open arms. That's when he felt time starting to slow down. And in that moment, he found himself in Quick Thought…but what was more shocking was that Onna was in there with them. As well as a very frustrated sounding Athena “Have you forgotten what I had taught you?”

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“Athena!” He gasped. Athena didn't look happy, “You're going soft.” She said in a disappointed tone “Greet the world with Open Arms?” She questioned “I see you changing from how I have created you, and you seem to be forgetting your purpose.” She said in a stern voice. Odysseus cringed at that, though he was still confused as to why Onna was there with them. “Athena, That's Polites way of life, not mine.” He said. “But you're LISTENING to him.” Athena told him. “You're CONSIDERING it.” She reminded. “You must remember. You are no ordinary warrior.” Athena said, as she circled him. “You are my Warrior of the Mind.” She said “If anything, you should take a few notes from your “vowed protector.” She stated

“Onna?” He asked. “Yes. Onna.” Athena said, almost testing the name on her tongue. Onna however was confused. She only remembered her as the Owl Woman…the one who she threw dust at and kicked her away. “I remember you. From the very first day you washed ashore of Ithaca.” She said “I saw as my Warrior pulled out out of the wreckage, and how you swore your loyalty to him on that day.” Athena informed as she used her spear to raise Onna's head by her chin “I…Well…I just wanted to thank him for saving me and my sister. I thought nothing of it.” Onna informed “And I also remember when you ran away from me.” Athena added “By throwing dust in my face, and kicking me away.” She said, with a raised eyebrow

“I…I thought you were going to harm the king.” Onna said, tense due to the weapon at her neck. “So I see.” Athena notes. “You fight…differently than the other men.” She said “Yes…What's your point? It gets the job done.” She Onna argues. “And yet you show the seer mercy.” Athena said bluntly. “Seer?” Odysseus asked, not knowing what Athena was talking about. “You'll know soon enough.” She told him. Onna sags “Come on…I just want to get to my sister. And if having the seer on the boat helps that, then so be it.” She said, leaving Cassandra's name out of her mouth.

Athena narrowed her eyes at the girl, but didn't say anything “I see.” She said, before she snapped her fingers. Getting Odysseus out of quick thought, leaving just her and Onna. “Odysseus!” Onna cried, before Athena attacked. In that moment, Onna grabbed her blade and blocked the spear. “Is this your plan?! To strike me when I can't see it?!” She yelled, deflecting the blows as quickly as she could. Unfortunately, Athena was quicker, as she swept her and knocked down to her back, spear to her neck again.

This once again sent Onna into a panic, as he breathing quickened, and flames began to envelop the quick thought, and voices surrounded them. Athena couldn't make out just what was being said around her, as it was being overwhelmed by screaming and shouting and yelling, but one voice stood out of all of them: The voice of Junsuina “ONNA!!” it screamed. In that instant, Onna kicked Athena away, and knocked the goddess down to her own back, her neck met by Onna's blade. “Let me out. Let me out of here!” She commanded, breath heavy, and tears leaking from her eyes.

“This isn't over.” Athena told her, an eyebrow raised at her reaction. “You will see me again soon enough.” She said, before time sped back up around her, the Goddess gone. “Onna? Are you OK?” Polites asked as he and Odysseus stood over her. Onna wiped whatever tears she had from her face “Yeah…Yeah I'm fine.” She said. “Let's just get back to the ship.” She said, trying to calm down. She walked past the two of them, in a effort to get the screams out of her head…and made a conscious effort not to get Athena to come back. ‘Just calm down…’ she thought. ‘Just think of what's waiting for you…Think of your sister…Think of Junsuina…’

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When the 3 of them got back to the boat, Odysseus immediately told them where to go to find the cave. Onna however still had her doubts…that beast thing was bothering her still, so she went to Cassandra in order to ask her what might happen “Cassandra?” She called out, and she found the prophetess, holding a sleeping Saisei. “Onna!” Cassandra exclaimed, seeing the Lotus flower in her hair “Don't worry I didn't eat the fruit.” She quickly pointed out. The seer let out a sigh of relief, but that relief faded when Onna told her “The Lotus Eaters…they said something about a cave. A cave with sheep inside, but also a beast.” That's when Cassandra had not one, but two visions, both happening at the same time, both detailing the future that could happen if certain things occur

“Cassandra! Cassandra!” Onna cried, gently grasping her shoulders, and Saisei began to slowly wake up, worriedly looking up at her. When Cassandra finally came back, she was gasping in horror. “They were right. There IS a beast in that cave.” She gasped. “A Monstrous Cyclops named Polyphemus.” She said. Onna froze. A CYCLOPS?! “But…I saw two outcomes. Both of them involving this large beast.” Cassandra adds. “One of them…causes more problems for everyone on this ship, and the other 11 ships.” She warned “The other future…many lives can be saved, but you must do EXACTLY as I say.” She said. Onna couldn't believe it, but the idea that one future may result in casualties made her feel sick, so with a determined nod, she kneeled down to Cassandra's level “OK. Tell me what must happen so we can get out of the cave alive.” She said, determination in her eyes

“There are two things that you must do if you want to survive.” Cassandra said “First, Polites must stay on the boat. No matter what.” She said. “How come?” Onna asked “If he steps off, even for a second, he's sealed his fate, and will meet his end by a club.” Cassandra warned. Onna felt her her heart drop. Polites? The one person that she trusted with her blade? The one she trusted, more than ANY of the 600 men (Including Odysseus)?...Dead? No…that couldn't happen. That WASN'T going to happen. With a determined look, she nodded. “Ok. Polites can't go into the cave. What else?” She asked. “Once you enter the cave, you will see the sheep.” Cassandra started “Do NOT let Odysseus kill the sheep. Not a single one can be harmed.” She said “What will happen if they are?” Onna asked “Then the first future will come true, and lives will be lost.

Onna opened her mouth to speak, but it was interrupted by Polites shouting “There's the cave!” Unaware of what Onna now knows. “Ok. Polites stays on the boat, And no hurts the sheep.” She repeated “Yes.” Cassandra confirms “Do this, and you should make it out alright.” She said. “Good.” Onna said, as she went to meet the others, but now she needed to think…how could she keep Polites from going into the cave? She needed an excuse, and FAST. That's when an idea came to mind, and she came back to Cassandra “Hey, How good are you at acting?” She asked, prompting a odd look from the seer. “What kind of question is that?” She asked, but Onna just smiled

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“Polites!” Onna called “Whats wrong Onna?” He asked “Its Cassandra! She's feeling unwell and needs help taking care of Saisei.” She said. Polites looked worried, but they were starting to get near the shore of the cave “We're here.” Eurylochus said, grabbing a torch. “I just hope that this cave really does have food in it, and we're not just going in circles.” He said. “Well they said there was a cave here.” Polites said, the little Lotus Eater still on his shoulder. “But what about Cassandra?” Onna asked, more desperation in her voice. “She'll be alright. There are other crew members.” Eurylochus told her “But she doesn't feel safe around them, she told me that she fears one of them might try to hurt her, or take Saisei.” Onna explained

Polites looked between Onna and Eurylochus “Just stay with her, Cassandra feels safer around you.” Onna urged “You're putting a lot of effort to help a war prisoner.” Eurylochus said, suspicious of why she was so determined to keep Polites on the ship, and why she kept urging him to stay with Cassandra. “Well, she is the only other person on the ship that looks past the part about me being a woman.” Onna points out. Odysseus got between them however. They didn't have time for this, they needed to get into that cave. “Polites, stay with Cassandra and Saisei, she needs help looking after the child.” he said. Polites shrugged, but he didn't argue as he walked over to where Cassandra was sitting. The little Lotus Eater that was with him jumped in front of Saisei and the baby laughed at his new friend.

Onna meanwhile, readied her sword for anything, while she also gave a sigh of relief ‘OK Cassandra…now make SURE he stays on the ship…’ she thought as she walked off the ship, meeting with the rest of the crew. The group made their way into the cave, the light from Onna's tattoos and Lotus flower brought her light as everyone grabbed torches. True to what the lotus eaters said, there was a an entire flock of sheep inside of the cave. “Wow…the Lotus Eaters were right.” She said, as one of the sheep snuggled up to her “There really are sheep inside of this cave.” She said, eyes wandering around at the large flock the cave, but she froze when she saw Odysseus holding a bow, and taking out an arrow.

Onna's eyes widened ‘Do NOT let Odysseus kill the sheep. Not a single one can be harmed.’ Cassandra's voice echoed ominously. She gripped Odysseus's arm as he nocked the arrow. “Wait.” She said in a quiet tone “Don't kill the sheep.” Odysseus raised an eyebrow “Why not?” He asked “There are lots of sheep here, and there's no one here.” He said. “Exactly. Think about it your highness.” She said. “There's sheep here, but no shepherd. The lotus eaters know about this place, but they won't come over here. One of them even said it was a “scary cave”. So what do you think is going to happen if you KILL one of them?” She questioned. Odysseus considered her words, and knew that she made points. LOTS of points…But his men were starving, and they literally had food in front of-

WHO ARE YOU?

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Everyone tensed up at the voice, for towering above them was a giant, monstrous creature with one piercing red eye glaring down at there. Onna froze in fear. Gods were one thing, but monsters were another. She kept her hand at her sword but she couldn't move. Odysseus meanwhile tried to calm the Cyclops down before he did anything. “Hey there.” He said calmly. “We're just travelers, and we were just stopping by for food.” He said. The large cyclops gazed down at his flock, eye looking for anything amiss, but he didn't see anything. “Why did you come here?” He asked. It's red eye then saw the glowing flower on Onna's head, and he laughed “The Lotus Eaters brought you here.” He said. Odysseus tensed up, now knowing why Onna said one of them said ‘Scary Cave”

“Well, I will not give you my sheep, but there are apples outside the cave.” He said. “But if you want me to lead you to them, I want something in return.” The cyclops said. Odysseus's mind worked fast, as the only thing they had left was some wine. “We'll give you our wine.” Odysseus said. “It's the finest wine you'll ever taste!” He said. “I want more than that.” The cyclops told them. “...What do you want?” Odysseus asked. The monster then smiled, and pointed a clawed finger at Onna “I Want Her.” He growled “As My Wife.”

Onna felt her heart drop like a ton of bricks. Her?! What did a cyclops want her as a wife for?! “You want her?” Odysseus asked. “Yes. Either give her to me, Or I kill you all.” The beast threatened. “Take her!” The other soldiers unanimously shouted. Onna glared at ALL of them. Angry that they would sacrifice her that quickly. Odysseus whispered in her ear “We will come back for you.” This didn't quell Onna's anger, but she didn't have time to yell at him, as the Cyclops left the cave to lead them to the apples, but not before said cyclops picked her up around her waist to ensure she didn't escape.

“What is your name, wife?” He asked, his eye directly gazed at Onna. Onna however was frozen in fear, words failing to form in her mouth. But one word formed in her head, and without thinking, she blurted out “誰も, No One.” She said. A gruesome smile formed on its face “No One…” He growled. As he lead the men to where the apples were. On the outside of the cave, there were a few apple trees in bloom “Take them and leave. Before I change my mind…” the Cyclops said, hand still grasped around Onna's waist. The men quickly grabbed a few crates for the apples, and they grabbed as many as they could, but Odysseus kept looking at Onna's terrified face as she was trapped in the clutches of a Cyclops.

“W-Wait.” Onna spoke. The cyclops once again turned to her “I just want to tell them something before they leave.” She said. The cyclops narrowed it's eye at Onna, almost for her daring for her to speak up…but he lowered Onna down to Odysseus's level, hand still on her waist. “Talk to Cassandra. She may know how to help.” She whispered. Odysseus was about to ask WHY she wanted him to talk to Cassandra, but he couldn't get an answer as the beast pulled Onna away from him. “You have your apples. Now Leave.” He commanded.

All of them ran back to the boats, as Odysseus looked back, watching as the Cyclops stalked back to its cave, with Onna in its clutches. So when He and Eurylochus got back on the ship, Odysseus immediately walked to Cassandra, who was with Polites and Saisei. “Captain? What happened? Where are the sheep?” Polites asked. “We…didn't get the sheep.” Eurylochus said Cassandra's eyes widened in worry “Why? What happened? And where's Onna?” She asked. “We're working on that.” Odysseus said “But…the Cyclops shouldn't have killed her…” she whispered Polites looked in shock while Eurylochus and Odysseus look dumbfounded

“...We didn't tell you about the Cyclops.”

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Cassandra looked down, eyes looking everywhere but at the 3 of them. “Cassandra. How did you know about the Cyclops?” Polites asked. The seer tried to come up with any possible excuse to throw them off, but there was no point, they know, that she knows something. “Cassandra. How did you know about the Cyclops.” Odysseus asked, more sternly than Polites. “Onna told me to ask you about something before that monster picked her up.” He said. Cassandra looked down. “I know because…I saw it. In a vision.” She said. “So that's what Athena meant.” Odysseus whispered. “A vision…so then. You're a seer!” Polites exclaimed. “You're Cassandra of Troy, the Lunatic Prophet.” Eurylochus realized.

Cassandra turned from him “That's a name I certainly don't miss.” She said “So it's true. You saw the Cyclops. And back in Troy, you were the one who knew our plan.” Odysseus said “Yes…I told Onna about him, Polyphemus, the Cyclops.” She said “I also told her what to do so that no lives were lost.” She said. Eurylochus raised a skeptical eyebrow “And how does she know that it's true? How do we know that you are telling the truth?” He asked. Cassandra narrowed her eyes “Because I know, that if things had gone differently, many lives would have been lost.” She said, before turning to Polites “Including yours…” she said in a haunted tone. It almost felt as if time froze at that statement. Cassandra saw a future where Polites would have DIED. And Onna interfered with it to prevent it…

Odysseus shook his head “Well…if you told her about the Cyclops, then you must know how we can rescue her.” He said. “Captain? Is it wise to listen to her? She is rumored to be mad.” Eurylochus informed. “And yet she warned Onna of what would happen.” Odysseus reminded. Polites turned to her “Please Cassandra? If Onna is still with that Cyclops, we have to get her back.” He pleaded. Cassandra looked down, but nodded “Ok. I do want to help the only person who actually believes me.” She said. “What do we have to do?” Odysseus asked. “Do you still have the Lotus Fruit?” She asked. “I still have one!” Polites said, pulling out the glowing fruit. “This little guy gave it to me!” He said, as the lotus eaters on his shoulder waved.

“Ok. Take that fruit, and put it in the wine that you will give to Polyphemus.” Cassandra said. Odysseus, though reluctant, did just that. He squeeze the fruit so that it's juice leaked into the wine, giving it the same otherworldly glow that the lotus fruit had. “Now what?” He asked. “When you give him the wine, Polyphemus will have expected you to sail off, so send 11 of the boats off, but make this boat only row around the island. That will allow you enough time to let the Lotus make Polyphemus fall asleep.” She explained “Once that happens, you must act quickly. Onna will be reluctant to leave however, as Polyphemus has taken her sword, and made it a necklace, and she will insist on getting it back. So when Polyphemus falls asleep, get the sword, before rescuing Onna.” She said.

“And once we get her and the sword, we leave right?” “Yes.” Cassandra nods. Eurylochus narrowed his eyes “This is not going to work.” He said “Well, what other choice do you have?” Cassandra asked “Run in there like wild ants and let him crush you?” She asked. The second in command turned away, not wanting to admit she had a point. “We have to act now.” Odysseus said. “He's right.” Cassandra said. “Ready the wine. For Polyphemus will not be pleased to see you again. Especially now that he has his “wife” Cassandra said, spotting the word “wife” with absolute disdain. Odysseus held the glowing barrel in his hand and looked back at the cave

“Please let this work…”

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Onna had been backed up behind a rock for what she felt like was forever. Once the men started boarding the boats, Polyphemus had dragged her back into his cave, the sheep still grazing inside. Once he put her down, Onna had taken cover behind a large rock, staying out of Polyphemus's sight. She took deep breaths, struggling to get it under control “Where are you No One?” She heard him ask, as he stalked the cave, searching for her. Her hand rested at her sword hilt, ready to just bring it out, but she didn't know just how much she could do against something that towered over her. And now without the rest of the men, she was on her own…alone…with a monster…

“There you are.” Polyphemus said from behind her, grabbing her once again. Onna struggled in his grasp, but then, her sword dangled out from under his hand “A Sword…” Polyphemus said, as his other hand grasped at it “No!” Onna shouts, grabbing onto the sheath as best as she could “You don't need this wife.” Polyphemus told her “That sword is mine!” Onna yelled, as the blade was taken from her “No!!” She cried. However, Polyphemus then takes a large bit of rope, and put it through the belt of the sword, making it a necklace “A Symbol of our Union.” He said “Anyone who sees it, will know you're mine.” Onna feels her breath quicken even more. Now not only is she stuck in this cave alone, but her weapon was taken from her, and now on this monsters neck.

That's when the two of them see Odysseus “You Again.” The cyclops says angrily, now grabbing for something she didn't see before: A very large club. “Easy now. I'm just giving you the wine.” He said “A trade for a trade.” Polyphemus's large eye narrowed down at him, but it eased a little when he saw the barrel. “See?” Odysseus said. Polyphemus's other hand reached out and grabbed the barrel. In a swiftness, he then drank the entire barrel, and though the liquid was quick…Onna could have sworn she saw it glowing like the Lotus fruit. “Go. NOW.” He growled “I am. Enjoy your wife…” Odysseus backing away from the entrance of the cave

“GET BACK HERE!” Onna yelled as he ran onto the ship. Her jaw dropped when she saw all 12 boats leaving the island, truly leaving her alone with the Cyclops. “At last. They're gone.” Polyphemus said, before his eye landed on Onna again. “Now you can be my…my…my…” He started to slow down, his eye beginning to close, and his grip on Onna slowly slipping. Polyphemus then tumbled to the ground, and began snoring. Onna gave a deep sigh of relief. She may not be off the island, but at least he was asleep. Unfortunately, he also still was holding her, the same way a small child holds a toy. Onna tries to pry him off, but her body's strength wasn't enough to pry a cyclops hand off of her.

Thats when one of the boats come back, and Odysseus, Eurylochus, and a few other men snuck off. Onna secretly gave a sigh of relief, but she still gave them a glare for leaving her with Polyphemus. “I told you we'd be back.” Odysseus whispered as some of the men pulled back Polyphemus's fingers to get her free “Ok, let's go!” One of the men whispered “No! My sword! He took it!” Onna pointed out “I can't go back to the ship without my sword!” She said. “Cassandra did say you needed your sword.” Odysseus said. “So you talked to her?” Onna asked “Yes. She told us what would happen so we could get you.” He told her. Onna gave a sigh of relief, at least Cassandra cared about her enough to tell them how to help her.

“Where's the sword?” Eurylochus asked “On his neck.” Onna whispered, pointing at her weapon, now the ‘Symbol of their union’ on his neck. “We'll get it off.” Odysseus said, grabbing his own sword and carefully climbing high enough in order to cut the rope off. The sword fell and crashed with a clatter that echoed through the cave. “Grab the sword and let's go.” Odysseus ordered. Onna didn't waste a second as she grabbed her weapon, and they made a break for it. Unfortunately, the sheep decided were particularly loud as they began to ‘baa’ as loudly as possible. In her panic Onna tried to make them stop “Shh! No! Shush!” She whispered. The sheep however just got louder, one even going so far as to start biting the backside of her clothes

“Stop that!” She hissed, pulling at her clothes, to try and get away from them. The sheep then got so loud, that they finally woke Polyphemus from his little nap…and he was very angry that his wife was gone. “No One?” He called out “No One?” He yelled, his voice echoing around the cave “Where are you?” He called, stalking through the cave. Onna and the other men had hidden behind the rocks at the mouth of the cave. “Who do you search for?” Came MORE deep voices. “There are more of them?!” Eurylochus asked. “Who do you search for?” They asked, more eyes appearing from the darkness of the cave “We have to go!” Onna whispered “Wait…” Odysseus ordered “Captain please!” Eurylochus pleaded “I search for No One…my wife. No One.” Polyphemus cried.

“If you search for no one, be silent.” The cyclopses all grumbled. “Don't go!” Polyphemus cried, dropping to his knees. “Hurry. Back to the ship.” Odysseus whispered. The group ran out of the cave as quickly as they could, with Odysseus practically shouting at his men “ROW!!” They didn't need any more instructions as the boat made their way back out to see. Unfortunately, this also got Polyphemus's behavior, and his eye narrowed at the boat making its way back out to sea. “GET BACK HERE!!” He yelled “YOU STOLE MY WIFE!!” At the yells, the men rowed faster, putting everything they could into to avoid getting killed by an angry cyclops. Onna meanwhile, stayed out of sight, so that Polyphemus would think she wasn't there.

Unfortunately, that didn't seem to be the case, as Polyphemus now began throwing giant boulders at then, the rocks causing the sea to make the sea unstable. Everyone on the boat grabbed onto whatever they could. “Onna! Get under deck!” Odysseus shouts over the crashing of water. Onna dove underneath, where she saw Cassandra holding a crying Saisei “Onna!” She yelled, trying to get her footing on the rocking boat. “So I guess the plan worked!” She said. “Yes! But did you see anything about Polyphemus getting mad?” Onna asked. “No! I didn't see that part!” Cassandra admitted. “GIVE ME BACK MY WIFE!!!” Polyphemus roared from outside, more boulders crashing into the sea. The waves crashed, making Cassandra stumble into a sack, and a few of the apples they grabbed.

Onna looked between the two of them, and she got an idea “Cassandra, C'mon help me out, I have an idea.” She said The seer didn't know what she was doing, but she helped gather a few of the apples into the bag, and tie it, as she grabbed a random sword, and tied it around the top. “Help me lift it up.” She said, dragging it to a nearby window. The two women then pushed the bag out of the window of the boat, and watched as it bobbed into the sea, getting pushed towards the island by the force of the oars. Polyphemus stopped when he saw the bag, the sword tied around it. “MY WIFE!” He exclaimed, and put down the next boulder he was about to throw. He waded into the water, and grabbed the bag “QUICKLY! ROW!!” Odysseus commanded “YES SIR!” The men yelled, rowing as fast as they humanly could.

And luckily, they were now a good distance away, just as Polyphemus opened the bag…and gave an enraged yell. He glared out at the now small boat, and his eye narrowed…those puny humans would pay for this, and he WOULD get his wife back…

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Meanwhile, Back on Ithaca, Penelope had been curious when she heard the sounds of weapons clinking, as well as the sounds of very youthful grunting. It wasn't any of the servants, and most of the guards were busy that day, so, she had followed the sounds, out of the palace, near the garden. And to her surprise, she saw Junsuina and Telemachus. The two of them holding a basket of various swords and spears. She raised an eyebrow when she saw Junsuina pull out a sword twice her size, and Telemachus a spear that towered over him. “Ready Junsuina?” He asked holding the spear steady

“Ready!” Junsuina said, getting a grasp on the sword “Attack!!” They both yelled as they charged at each other. But that didn't last long, as the sword was too heavy for Junsuina, and she ended up dragging it very slowly, while Telemachus accidently put the spear top too close to the ground, and it ended up launching him upwards, and making him land on top of Junsuina. The two of them gave a pained groan “Let's call it a draw…” He said “Agreed…” She said. Penelope gave a laugh at the situation, that got their attention.

“Mom!” “Your highness!” The two of them said in sync. Junsuina gave a bow to the queen as Telemachus came up with excuses for his mother not to punish them. “It's OK, I saw what you were doing.” She said. “You…you did?” Telemachus asked, his face turning red. “Yes. I did.” She said. “We were only practicing!” Junsuina said “Telemachus said he wanted to be ready for when his father arrived, so he could show him he was a Warrior too!” She said “and Jun said that she wanted to learn how to sword fight to show her sister when she returns!” Telemachus added.

Penelope smiled at their enthusiasm. Telemachus really did remind her of her husband…oh Odysseus…it's been 10 years since this silly war, and now rumors have been flying around that Odysseus died in battle, or that the Trojans have captured him. She of course refused to believe these rumors, because she knew that Odysseus wasn't going to take it lying down. He was a cunning man, and he was probably out there fighting for his life. No, he WAS fighting. Fighting to return to his home, his family…her…she held out the hope that she kept in her heart that he was coming back.

Looking down at the children, she smiled at them “It looks like you needed just a little more training before they come back.” She said. “We know, and we're trying. But the guards are always too busy!” Telemachus said “And Telemachus's mentors won't let me pick up a blade, because ‘I'm a lady’ and ‘I need more ladylike activities.’” Junsuina said, as she crossed her arms and grumpily mimicking the voices that said she couldn't learn “I tried to tell them to let her join, but they waved her off…” Telemachus admitted, looking away. Now Penelope gave a cheeky smile “Well…lucky for you. Your sister isn't the only woman who wields a weapon.” She said.

The two of them lifted their heads, curious as to what the queen meant “How about I teach you how to hold a sword?” She asked the children. They gasped and looked at each other. The queen? Teach them how to hold weapons?! Penelope smiled as she picked up the sword that Junsuina had tried to hold. She hadn't picked up a weapon since the days of her youth in Sparta, but now she finally could show off her own knowledge of weapons and fighting to her child and his best friend.

“Let's begin shall we?”

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Back out at sea, Onna had been teaching Cassandra how go use a sword, specially how to use HER sword. A luxury not many were used to having. “Like this.” Onna told her as she adjusted Cassandra's hands so that she was holding the sword better, while Onna used one that was just on the ship. “I will never understand how you manage to make it look so Easy.” Cassandra said “This blade is so heavy, and yet you wield it so effortlessly.” She said. Onna gave a sad smile “My father…he was a Warrior too. He taught me everything before…they took him away from us. From me.” She said. “This blade was his…and it's the last bit of home I have.” She admits. Cassandra's eyes widened. THATS why Onna didn't want to leave the sword behind. She'd be surrendering the last part of her past that she even had…a past she didn't want to forget.

She handed Onna back the sword. “Here.” She said “It wouldn't be right for me to use it.” Onna smiled, handing Cassandra the other sword “Here. Let's try this.” She said “Can you see what my attacks would be?” She asked. Cassandra raised an eyebrow. She hadn't thought about didn't that. “Maybe.” She said “Then see!” Onna urged “Alright.” Cassandra shrugged, and she looked ahead into the future. But when she did, she paled, she saw something BAD. something that would ultimately hinder the fleets way back to Ithaca.

“Cassandra?” Onna asked, not liking the expressions she made. Cassandra came out of the vision, and she immediately pulled Onna somewhere private. “Cassandra what's wrong?” Onna asked. “I saw the future…and it's not good.” The seer admitted “What…happens in the future?” She asked “I saw the ships in a storm. A Monstrous one. One that could potentially destroy them all.” She said “But this is no ordinary storm.” She said “This is one created by Posiedon.” She warned. Onna's eyes widened. “Why did Posiedon make the storm?” She asked. “Polyphemus is his son.” Cassandra told her “After we fled, he called upon the God of the seas, and has told him about the theft of his “wife” so now the Earth-Shaker is searching for the fleet that holds you.” She said.

Onna felt her breath hitch. Polyphemus is Poseidon's SON. and now that she was gone, the God of the seas was going to go after them. “Well…he doesn't know my real name. That should help right?” She asked “That doesn't change anything. For Polyphemus told Posiedon that his wife was a woman who wields a sword. A sword that was a symbol of love stolen from him.” Cassandra explained. “And since you're the only person that I know who wields a sword like that…” She trailed off as Onna cringed “I'm…the only woman like that at sea aren't I?” She asked, as Cassandra nodded.

“Ok…Is there any way to get back to Ithaca, without the storm?” Onna asked “Yes…there is one way, but it's pretty risky.” Cassandra told her. “What do we have to do?” Onna asked her, desperation in her voice. “Well. In the grips of the storm, there is a island that floats above the clouds.” Cassandra starts “Odysseus will see it, and he will command his men to harpoon the island, that way he can speak to Aeolus, the God of the winds.” She said “And she will present a game to Odysseus, one that will determine if the fleet makes it home.” She finished. “An island in the sky…” Onna whispered. Cassandra nods “But it's risky because the storm will be at it's strongest. And it's also at this time that Posiedon will be close to where you are in the sea.” She explained.

“When this happens, you MUST. And I mean it, MUST stay away from the water.” Cassandra also warns. “How come?” Onna asked. “Posiedon is the lord of the seas. He commands the water. The second he finds out that you are on this ship, he will do everything in his power to sink it and kill everyone, while taking you back to Polyphemus.” Cassandra explained. “So during the storm, you must hide yourself underneath the deck, so that the water may not reach you.” She said. Onna looked away. She hated feeling helpless, like some maiden that needed to be protected, but there wasn't much she could do against a God who would kill everyone in the name of his monstrous son. She sighed and nods to Cassandra “Alright. When the storm comes, I'll stay under the boat.” She said.

Cassandra smiled as the two of them made their way back to the deck to continue training, when they stopped and saw a very angry and scared Crew, all glaring at Onna. “Is it true?” One of them growled. “Posiedon's wrath is coming?” Another asked. “What is it to you?” Onna asked, glaring back. That's when she heard Odysseus speak up

“We heard what Cassandra told you.”

Chapter Text

Cassandra paled, and Onna held the hilt of her sword. “We need to toss her overboard now!” Perimedes yelled, the other men agreeing with him. This ROYALLY pissed Onna off “SHUT UP PERIMEDES!” She yelled. “If Posiedon is coming after us. If we get rid of the reason WHY he's coming after us, then he'll leave us alone!” He explained. “NO! Don't toss her overboard! Doing that will only make Posiedon even more upset!” Cassandra warned. The other men weren't convinced however. “And how would throwing the person that he's looking for into the water overboard make him angrier?” Elpenor asked. “Polyphemus wants his “wife” alive. If she drowns and dies, then Posiedon will destroy whoever threw her overboard!” Cassandra explained.

“I say she's lying!” Perimedes said “She is the Lunatic Prophet of Troy after all.” He said “And yet she found a way around the Cyclops.” Onna points out. “Now if you had another plan regarding the Cyclops, let me know.” She spat. “Well this is different. This is a GOD we're talking about. A God that can destroy any chance we have at ever getting home.” Perimedes argued. “And Cassandra said we have to sacrifice her.” He said “She didn't say that!” Onna yelled “I did NOT say that.” Cassandra pointed out. “I said she has to stay away from the water, not be dropped into it.” She said. “I still say we drop her into the sea.” He said.

Now Onna brought out her sword, and aimed it at his neck “One more word Perimedes. One. More. Word.” She warned, fire in her eyes. Polites got between them “Hey Hey! Let's not fight! Not when we're so close to getting home.” He said. “Polites is right.” Odysseus said, his “king tone” being heard “If Cassandra's visions are true, then a storm is coming and we have to be prepared. As well as keeping an eye out for Aeolus's floating isle.” He said. “But there will be no more suggestions of throwing Onna off the boat and into the sea. In case you have forgotten, she also aided in the battle in Troy, and made sure that you didn't lose your lives.” He reminded. “Especially you Perimedes.” Perimedes looked away, as memories of him getting thrown around by Onna when he tried to court her playing in his head.

Odysseus then turned to Onna “Onna, if Posiedon is coming after you, and if coming in contact with the sea will attract him, then you must stay away from the deck as much as possible.” He said. “Which means, when this storm comes, you and Cassandra will take shelter under the deck, and STAY there until we find Aeolus's island.” He said. Onna nods, but she still wasn't happy. “So I'm on a time-out until the storm is gone?” She asked. “Unfortunately.” Odysseus said. Onna gave a sigh “Fine. But PLEASE let me hurt Perimedes if he talks about throwing me off the boat again.” She asked. “We'll see.” He said.

And that's how, for 2 weeks, Onna found herself under the deck.

Chapter Text

The storm finally hit the ships. The seas were angry as they tossed the boats around, and the sky crackled with lightning. The winds threatened to blow anyone away that wasn't holding on. To say that it looked like the gods were against them was an understatement. Odysseus shielded his eyes from the pouring rain and seawater that crashed onto the boat. The men were trying to hold their own against the waves was almost useless, but the sea was against them, due to Poseidon currently looking for them “HOLD ON TO WHATEVER YOU CAN!” He commanded “KEEP ROWING! WE CAN'T STOP NOW!” His voice was almost drowned out from crashing of waves.

Underneath the deck, Onna and Cassandra held onto anything they could as the boat rocked back and forth, tossing them just as much as everyone else on the boat. Saisei was now bundled up in many different blankets, and held in Onna's arms in order to protect him from the chaos outside. “How much longer will this storm last?!” Onna yelled as the ship tilted again. “I told you. Posiedon has it out for ALL ships now until he finds you.” Cassandra said, through her face was slightly green now. “Shouldn't Aeolus's island be around here soon?!” Onna asked tying herself down to a nearby post to stop herself from sliding. “Not much longer…” Cassandra groaned, holding her stomach. Being a seer was one thing, but she wasn't used to being stuck on a ship stuck in a storm.

“LOOK! UP THERE!” Cried one of the men from above. “A FLOATING ISLAND!” Another shouted. “Well we found it.” Onna said. “Now Odysseus is going to talk to Aeolus right? she asked. Cassandra tried to hold herself together “Yes. Yes he is. As soon as the men can anchor themselves to the island.” She said. “Anchor?...but it floats in the air.” Onna states “There's more than one way to anchor a boat…” Cassandra says, as she held herself as best she could “EVERYONE GRAB A HARPOON!” they heard Odysseus command. “AIM FOR THE ISLAND!” He shouted. The two of them heard the men aiming for the floating island, many of them shouting and grunting as they throw harpoons, supposedly at the floating island.

“Will one of them actually hit the island?” Onna asked as they heard what was happening above. “They have to…its the only way Odysseus can talk to Aeolus.” Cassandra said. For 6 minutes, they listened above, waiting and waiting until finally, FINALLY, someone managed to harpoon the island. “I'll be back!” They heard Odysseus say. It went quiet for a few moments with the exception being the boat was still rocking. They then heard the howling winds calming down, the waves starting to get smaller, and they saw streaks of sunlight appear from the boards of the boat.

“He did it…” Onna sighed “He talked to Aeolus…” She said, but Cassandra sounded less enthused. “He didn't.” She said. “They're playing a game…” She said.

Chapter Text

When Odysseus was ready up to the wind God's island, he didn't expect Polites little Lotus Eater friend to want to come with him. “C'mon Ody!” Polites pleaded “Look at his little face, let him come with you!” He said. Odysseus raised an eyebrow, but they didn't have time to lose, so he reluctantly let the little Lotus Eater come with him, grabbing onto his neck as he climbed the rope up to the island. He could feel the air getting thinner the higher be got, but at the same time, he rose higher and higher, above the storm clouds, and saw the clear blue sky above him. True to what the legends said, there truly was a temple for Aeolus that floated above the air.

He looked around, but he didn't see just where Aeolus was. “Oh great wind God Aeolus.” He started as he walked deeper onto the island “I come to you with a humble request: We wish to make it back to our homeland, but the seas are angry, and a storm blocks our way.” He said. “I only ask that you can shift the winds, for us to prevail in returning.” He said. There however was no answer to his plea. He sighed, it was worth a shot…The wind suddenly picked up around him, as a figure seemingly almost invisible laughed at him.

“Hello there!!” They said in a cheeky voice. A smile visible on their face. “Yes! It is I! The wind itself!” They said in a mock-serious voice “The great wing God Aeolus! And I have heard your pleas for safe passage across the seas-PFFT!! HAHAHA!!” They chortled “Oh, I can't do it! I never understand how Zues does it!” They laughed, before floating over to Odysseus “And you found one of my Winions!” They said. “Winions?” Odysseus asked “My adorable little windy creations! They always end up getting lost on the Lotus Eaters island.” Aeolus told him, as they plucked the lotus off of its head. The small lotus eater then turned white and began to float. It did a few laps around Odysseus's head before landing on his shoulder.

“So. About the storm…” Aeolus said, their voice taking a strange tone. “How about we play a game…” they said “A game?” Odysseus asked “Yep! And if you win, you and your ships will return home safe and sound.” They said with a smile. Odysseus nods with a immediate “Deal!” Aeolus's smile got bigger as they snapped their fingers, and a small bag appeared. Suddenly, all of the grey clouds and harsh winds that had been torturing the ship all were sucked inside. Once all of the clouds were gone, they tied the bag shut. “See this bag? This has all of the wind and storm inside.” They explained, tossing Odysseus the bag. “All you have to do, to ensure you get home, is just keep it closed.” They said. Odysseus held the bag in his hand, feeling how it fought and churned inside. The king raised an eyebrow “This sounds to easy? What's the catch?” He asked.

Aeolus just laughed again “A little word of advice little king: Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer.” They said, before sending the wind to blow Odysseus off the island. He just barely managed to grab the rope again when more of Aeolus's winions appeared, all of them whispering “Never really know you can trust.” He gripped the rope, and the bag, as the crew all saw him come back onto the ship. “Captain!” Eurylochus shouts “Did you do it? What happened up there? What's in the bag?” They all questioned. The little winion floated off of Odysseus and went back to Polites “Inside this bag is something dangerous, something we cannot let escape.” Odysseus started, but before he could say what it was

“It's treasure!”

Chapter Text

Odysseus froze. What did those little things just say?! What were they doing? “What?” He coldly questioned, before they all faded away “Buh-Bye!” they all said quickly. Now everyone's was trying to see what was inside “C'mon! Let's open it!” one of them shouted. “NO!” He shouts, making them them step back. “Everyone listened to me. What is in here is NOT treasure. This bag has the storm inside of it, so we HAVE to keep it shut.” He said. “Absolutely nobody opens this bag.” He commanded. “Yes sir.” The crew said, though it was more reluctant than before. Odysseus narrowed his eyes. He had a feeling that this bag was going to cause more trouble than he thought.

He descended underneath the boat, where Onna and Cassandra were asleep with Saisei in Onna's arms. “Onna.” He said, waking her up. Onna shot up “寝てなかったよ！” She yelled. “Oh…Captain.” She said when she realized who it was. “Did it work? Did you talk to Aeolus?” She asked. “Yes I did. And I have a task for you now.” Odysseus told her, before handing her the bag. “See this bag?” He started. “This has the storm inside of it. Make sure that this bag IS NOT opened.” He said. Onna nods “Got it.” She said. “I'll guard the bag.” She said, as she took the bag and tied it around her arm. Odysseus nods back. “We'll be in Ithaca in a few days, just keep an eye on that bag.” He said as he walked back above deck.

Onna looked down at the bag as he left. She could hear the winds bouncing around in the bag. “So…this little bag has the storm inside of it…” She said as she sat back down. Cassandra then slowly began waking up, and her eyes widened at the bag. “Onna. The wind bag…” She started “In 9 days, someone will open that bag and the storm will return.” She said “The rest of the fleet ahead makes it to the shores of Ithaca, but this one. The very one we're on now, it will he caught in Posiedon's grip once more.” She warned. Onna's heart dropped. Out of EVERY boat, the one that they were on was going to get stuck in the storm. “How? Does someone open the windbag?” She asked. Cassandra nods “Yes. Someone close to the captain.” She warned.

“Polites?” Onna asked “He doesn't strike me as someone that would sneak behind Odysseus's back…” She started “No no, not Polites. His loyalty is true. Someone else.” Cassandra corrects. Onna's mind then lands on Eurylochus “Eurylochus?” She asked, and Cassandra responds with a nod. “Unfortunately, he is the one who opens the wind bag. His curiosity gets the better of him.” She said. Onna groans. There has to be some way to keep the wind bag away from Eurylochus, that way he couldn't open it. Her mind was thinking of the various possibilities to keep it away from him when she heard Perimedes above her. “So THATS where he hid the bag.” He said.

Onna looked up, and saw he, and various other shipmates looking down at where she sat. “So the Captain gave YOU the bag?” one of them asked. “Yes. He gave me the storm bag. Why?” She asked. “He's got treasure in the bag!” Elpenor told her. Onna raised an eyebrow “Really? Treasure?” She asked in a bored tone. ‘Men really ARE stupid.’ She thought. “Yeah! And now he doesn't want to share it!” Perimedes said. “That's funny. Because when Odysseus gave it to me, he said that there was a storm inside of here. Not treasure.” She stated. “He's just saying that because he doesn't want to share!” Another one of them said. “Look. When we reach Ithaca, then you can look inside the bag to your hearts content, but until then, NONE of you are getting this bag from me.” Onna said, her tone sharp.

All of them narrowed their eyes at her. And in return, Onna glared at them back. The feeling was mutual, and trust was unsteady. Now the question was, how long could they truly last without someone snapping and stealing the bag?

Chapter Text

In the next 9 days, tensions were high for everyone. For Odysseus, for Onna, for the entire crew. True to what Aeolus had said, the storm was gone, but at the same time, the trust in everyone had slowly dwindled. ESPECIALLY the trust between Onna, Odysseus and the rest of the crew. For over those 9 days, Onna wouldn't come back to the deck, nor would she release the bag from her grasp. This made the crew all give her dirty looks, and whisper remarks that she was the “captain's plaything” or “captain's replacement Penelope”. Which resulted in them getting held at sword point by a very angry Onna, vowing that she would throw the next person who accused her of sleeping with Odysseus overboard. At the same time, the men began to slowly sneak around Odysseus, trying to find a way around him to get to the bag.

Onna meanwhile kept Cassandra's warning in mind. If their boat really was doomed to get stuck back at sea, she didn't want Cassandra and Saisei to get stuck in the crossfire. So late into the night, a plan formed in her head. When everyone was asleep, she woke Cassandra up, and lead her to one of the smaller boats. “Take this and row to the shores of Ithaca.” She said. Cassandra looked shocked at what Onna was suggesting. “But I'll get stuck in the storm as well!” She said. “No you won't.” Onna promised. She lowered it into the water, and with Cassandra and a sleeping Saisei in it, she brought out the wind bag. “Take this with you and don't stop.” She said, untying the rope that held the bag on her arm.

She was about to drop it onto Cassandra's boat, when she was unexpectedly pulled away from the edge of the boat. “ONNA!” Cassandra yelled “CASSANDRA! ROW!” Onna shouts, as she fights off the hands pulling her back. “I GOT HER! GET THE BAG!” Voices yelled around her. In her fury, Onna did what she did back in Troy, she FOUGHT. She threw one man off of her, elbowed another one in the throat, kicked down one of their knees, she didn't stop. She COULDN'T stop! She had to keep the bag away from them. Unfortunately, even with the determination she had, she was overwhelmed. Over 12 men dog piled onto her, as the bag was ripped away from her hand “EURYLOCHUS NO!!” She yelled.

“What's going on?” Polites asked, Odysseus behind him “ODYSSEUS! THE BAG!!” Onna warned. But it was too late. The men surrounded the bag as powerful winds blasted out of it, and the skies turned dark around them. Around them they could hear Aeolus laughing at their despair. “I warned you little king! Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer!” They said, before the winds blasted them away from their initial direction. The rest of the fleet getting closer, but they got farther away. It was at least enough to knock the piled up men off of Onna, as she took the bag and tried to close it. “WHERES THE STORM TAKING US?!” Odysseus yelled over the whipping winds “I said to keep the bag closed, but it looks like you couldn't do it.” Aeolus started “But judging by my own winds, you're heading to Laestrygonian Territory!” They said giving a mocking wave before disappearing.

Odysseus panicked, before his eyes spotted Onna trying to close the bag “QUICK! CLOSE THE BAG!” He ordered. “IT'S TOO LATE!” Eurylochus tried to say “NO! WE CAN SAVE WHATS LEFT!” Odysseus said as the two of them were trying to close it. Eurylochus and Polites helped as well until the bag finally closed. The 4 of them took deep breaths, relieved that the bag was closed, but now they all had bigger problems: The rest of the fleet was gone, and they had been blown off course. Of course, Onna knew the reason why, as she charged herself at Eurylochus “バカ者！！” She screamed and knocked him to the ground in fury “本当に近かった！もう少しで到着するところだった！！そしてあなたと他のバカたちがバッグを開けたのです！！！！” She roared. The two of them began fighting as Polites and Odysseus struggled to separate them. “Onna! Onna! Calm down!” Polites soothed.

This didn't do them any good however, as in the scuffle, Eurylochus knocked her back, and caused her to fall off of the ship. “ONNA!” Polites and Odysseus yelled in terror. They looked over, and to their relief, they saw her clinging to dear life, using her sword to hold herself above the water. “Get some rope!” Odysseus commanded. Onna meanwhile kept her eyes on the water. As she saw something that looked like a dark shadow circling the ship. Her breath quickened. What on earth was that?! “ONNA! GRAB ON!” She heard Polites shout, as a rope appeared near her. Onna tried to grab the rope, as the winds whipped around her, when she felt the water. The cold, frigid water rise up, and grab her body, her head the only thing exposed as she was lifted higher and higher into the air. She heard Polites and Odysseus yell her name as she saw just WHAT was grabbing her. A humanoid shape formed from water. A being that towered over all of them combined, eyes that held the sea shined down at her.

“I found you…”

For this was the Earth-Shaker. The Lord of the Seas. The one being that all those that were trapped in the water feared.

Posiedon.

Chapter Text

Onna was struck with fear. She had already had her fair share of gods, between Athena and Hermes. But at the same time, she hadn't known them to change sizes so they were taller than her. Posiedon however, he TOWERED over all of them. And since they were in the sea, he controlled all water that surrounded them. “So. You're my Son's runaway wife.” Poseidon boomed. Words couldn't form in Onna's head as the God spoke to her. “I must say. You made my son very upset, running away from him before he could properly introduce you to me.” He said, in a tone that a parent would take when their kids misbehaved. “You made it quite hard to find you. Lying about your name, and then staying away from all forms of water. If you hadn't got swept away by the storm, I might never have found you.” He said.

Onna shivered, both in fear, and from the coldness of the sea. It was all coming true. Despite their best efforts, Poseidon still found them, and now he was going to try and take her back to Polyphemus. “Lord Poseidon! There's been a mistake!” She said. “I'm not the woman that Polyphemus is looking for!” She said. “Polyphemus hunts for a beautiful woman. I am not that.” She said “Maybe he saw Helen of Troy and mistook me for her.” She said. Poseidon however, wasn't convinced. “Do you take me for a fool?” He asked, making Onna shake her head immediately. “The only reason you would say that, is if you took me for a fool.” He said, eyes narrowing. “For my son also tells me that his wife also has a symbol of their love: A sword that she constantly wears on her waist.” Poseidon said. The warrior tensed. There was no hiding the sword she held on her at all times. A large shining trident was held underneath her chin. “Now all that's left is to return you to my heartbroken son.” He said, before his eyes glared down at Odysseus's one remaining ship

“But before I do. I need to punish those who stole you from Polyphemus.” He growled. Raising his trident into the air, the Earth-Shaker made the waves grow to monstrous size, Causing the ship to rock violently, tossing Odysseus and the rest of the crew around like rag dolls. Onna gasped in horror as she tried to escape Poseidon's grip, but he trapped her inside of a ball of suspended water. “LET ME OUT!!” She screamed, trying to escape, but the water was as solid as rock, leaving her trapped inside, forced to watch the rest of the crew thrown around violently. They all tried to keep the boat steady, but with how hard the sea was attacking, this was near impossible.

“PLEASE! DON'T HURT THEM!” Onna yelled from her watery prison, but it fell on deaf ears. Poseidon had a bit of sadistic glee watching as the men who “kidnapped” Onna were tossed and thrown on the deck. “Maybe I should turn the tides backwards. And destroy the rest of that fleet.” He said, a mocking tone in his voice. Odysseus's eyes widened in horror at the suggestion, even as he's being slammed violently around. “They didn't even HURT Polyphemus!” Onna told Poseidon. “Yes they DID.” Poseidon argued back. “They broke into his home, and stole his wife. Even AFTER taking them to the apple trees.” He boomed. “He threatened to kill the men!” Onna argued back, but this didn't satisfy Poseidon's rage.

“YOU DARE TO QUESTION ME?!” He yelled, the waves blasting back at the sound of his voice. Onna also fell onto her back, by the force of his voice. “If you weren't the one that my cyclops was looking for, I wouldn't be merciful.” Poseidon threatened. “He would have been better off blinded rather than broken-hearted.” He told her. Onna saw that he wasn't going to stop, so she formed a plan in her head. “OK. You win! I'll go with you back to my…husband.” She said, the word husband rolling off like poison in her mouth. “I just only ask to bid farewell to my travel companions before I return to Polyphemus.” She said. Poseidon raised an eyebrow, but he relented. At least his son picked a beautiful wife to be by his side. The God of the tides snapped his fingers, and the bubble around Onna vanished, splashing her with water.

“Make it quick. My son awaits for your return.” He said, lowering her down onto the boat, the waves now calm. Onna stepped on, and faced Odysseus. “King Odysseus.” She started “It would seem that this is where our paths separate.” She said, her face mutual. Odysseus was shocked. He didn't think Onna would give in that easy. “I only ask that you do one thing for me, before I rejoin Polyphemus.” She said. “And that would be?” He asked. Onna gestured him closer so she could whisper into his ear “Use the wind bag to get us away from him!” She whispered. Odysseus's eyes widened, as Onna began stepping back away from him. She then addressed the rest of the crew, Eyes hard.

“Well. It would seem that this is goodbye.” She said “I was hoping to avoid this, but you were all SO DESPERATE to see what was in the wind bag, that you just had to open the bag, and now prevent any of us from reaching Ithaca. So with that, living with a cyclops suddenly doesn't seem that bad.” She said. Odysseus knew what she was doing. She was buying time for him to grab the wind bag and open it. He carefully snuck around his men, carefully to not get Poseidon's attention, and grabbed the bag. “...So with that being said. Farewell.” Onna finished. She then turned back to Poseidon. “OK. I'm ready.” She said, eyes with no emotion.

“Good.” Poseidon simply said, the water bubble forming around her again, this time a little slower. He then turned back to Odysseus, fully ready to finish him off. “Any last words?” He asked. “As a matter of fact. Yes.” Odysseus said, before releasing the wind from the wind bag, blowing everyone back. At the same time, it stopped the water bubble around Onna from forming, but also threw her back under the deck, knocking her out. Poseidon watched as the boat flew away, blowing them to a nearby island. His eyes narrowed in anger. Fine. If that pesky mortal wanted to play keep away he would do the same thing…

Chapter Text

Back on Ithaca, it was an exciting day, the war ships were back! They had all returned! Most of the citizens were preparing a large festival, while some were waiting near the beach and shore to welcome back all those from the war. Among them was a now 12 year old Junsuina and a 10 year old Telemachus. The two of them now have gotten close during the 10 years. They were almost always at each other's sides. The two of them rushed towards the shore, where they saw the boat coming towards them “Mother look! They're back! Father is back!” Telemachus shouts with joy as Argos barks excitedly. “He has finally returned.” Penelope said, her heart nearly leaping at the fact that her husband was back. “My sister is finally back!!!” Junsuina cheered, jumping to get a better look at the boats.

As soon as they reached the harbor, many citizens rushed to their loved ones. A family reunited, a husband back in the arms of his wife, a brother returning. Many smiling faces surrounded them all. However, Penelope couldn't feel that something was amiss. As she only saw 11 of the boats reach the shore, and one of them was missing. “Why are there only 11 boats?” She asked to one of the men returning. “One of the ships got caught in a storm and were blown off course.” He said. This made a bad feeling in Penelope stomach, but she couldn't think much about it when Telemachus and Junsuina ran onto one of the boats, calling for Odysseus and Onna

“Father! Father!” Telemachus yelled, searching the ship, while Junsuina tugged on another man's chiton “Excuse me sir, have you seen my sister Onna? She was in the war too.” She asked. “She's not on this boat. She's most likely on the boat with the king.” He said. “And King Odysseus isn't on this ship?” She asked. The man shook his head “Try one of the other ones.” He said. Junsuina nodded before she ran to Telemachus. “C'mon! One of these ships had to have Odysseus, and Onna!” She said. The children ran off of the boat, and ran to another one with the same question. And then another. And then another.

Soon they searched all 11 of the ships, but none of them had Onna and Odysseus on it. “Where are they?” Junsuina asked. “I'm not sure. They should be here…” Telemachus said. That's when one of the men piped up. “That must mean the ship that was swept away was holding the king, and your sister.” He said. Both children felt their hearts break at the man's word. Tears formed in Telemachus's eyes as Junsuina ran off the ship and towards the beach. “Junsuina! Wait!” Penelope called, while comforting Telemachus and wiping his tears away. Junsuina had ran all the way to the beach and fell to her knees, letting out a heartbroken sob. Out of EVERY boat that couldn't have gotten swept away…it HAD to be the one Onna was on. Her sister was so close…and now she had now idea where she was.

She looked up at the sea, eyes gazing out at where the storm once was, when she saw another, smaller boat coming to the beach. She squinted at the one who was on there, and to her surprise, it was a woman! But it wasn't Onna. Because she knew that Onna wasn't pregnant and didn't have a baby. Once the woman made it to the shore, she sighed in relief, before she quickly came out of the boat, holding the baby. She then locked eyes with Junsuina. “Are you Junsuina?” She asked. This scared her. The last time strangers asked her that it didn't end well…of course, Onna was there too when it happened.

“Why do you want to know?” Junsuina asked, backing away from this woman. “I'm a friend of your sister. Onna.” She said. Junsuina narrowed her eyes. “I don't believe you.” She stated. “It's true. I am a friend of your sister. She's the one that told me to find you.” The woman explained. “Prove it.” Junsuina said bluntly, hand reaching for a small dagger she kept behind her. The woman said in a gentle tone “The sky may crack the sea apart, know that I love you with all my heart.” She started “Even in the strongest winds, the mountains never bend. I love you until the very end. “ she finished. Junsuina was frozen in shock. The only other person who knew that was Onna! “You really do know her…” she whispered.

The woman nods “Your sister showed me kindness, she promised that we could start anew in Ithaca if we came with her.” She said. Junsuina looked down. “Is she…” she started “No your sister isn't dead.” The woman told her “But she does have a lot more to go until she reaches you.” She said. “How do you know?” Junsuina asked. The woman smiled “I can see the future.” She said simply. Junsuina looked in awe “Do you have a name miss?” She asked. “You can call me Cassandra.” She said. “And this is, who your sister now calls Saisei.” She added, holding the sleeping Saisei in her arms. Junsuina smiled at the two of them.

At least this day wasn't that bad…

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When Onna finally came too, she gave a groan as she clumsily rose from her spot on the boat. She didn't think the storm would blow them that far. She just hoped that Cassandra had gotten far enough that she and Saisei weren't swept off either…but Posiedon was after them. Which meant the sea worked against them now. She mentally kicked herself…she should have made sure that the Cyclops didn't SEE them leaving the island, or kept a better eye on the windbag. Tears formed in her eyes as she realized that by now, the fleet probably made it back to Ithaca, and by now, Junsuina was looking for her…only to now find out that she wasn't on any of the arriving boats…

She wiped her tears and made her way back up the stairs. She saw that most of the men were now on the beach, Odysseus pacing nervously. She knew exactly what he was thinking about: How the heck were they supposed to get back now that the god of the seas seemed determined to kill then, and take Onna back? “Captain, It'll be OK.” Polites tried to soothe, but Odysseus wasn't having it “We were so close!” He sighed “So close. And then that wind bag opened…” he said, frustration in his voice. Her eyes landed on Eurylochus, who now was looking away, eyes filled with guilt. “Why Eurylochus…” She muttered as she made her way into the beach. “Captain? You alright?” She asked.

Odysseus and Polites looked as she came near them. Odysseus however immediately asked Onna “Who opened the Wind bag?” The question made everyone there tense…everyone except Onna and Polites “I need to know.” Odysseus said. Onna's eyes immediately looked to Eurylochus, who looked like he was holding his breath, wondering if she was going to rat him out. Onna's eyes grew hard. She could easily just tell Odysseus the culprit and let Eurylochus take the blame…but then again, they were all tired, and now they were miles away from Ithaca, and now on…wherever they were now, and pointing fingers and blaming him wouldn't change anything now. She took a deep breath.

“I couldn't see who opened the bag unfortunately. There were too many people crowding it, and I had been dog piled on so I couldn't stop them.” She said. Odysseus grunted. He wished he could have known who had opened the bag. But if Onna didn't see who it was he had no idea who to punish and who was innocent. But he knew that Onna had the bag ripped from her by force, so he made a decision. “It would seem that I wasn't clear ENOUGH.” He said. “I said to keep the bag shut until we reached Ithaca. But instead, you opened it anyways.” He said, a bite in his tone. “Onna.” He started, making her stand straighter “Until we're back out at sea, you're in charge.” He said. This made all the men, Eurylochus included, give complaints.

“ENOUGH.” He yelled. “She showed more self control, not opening the bag that you stole from her.” He said. “Onna. You and Eurylochus are now in charge until we can get back.” He said. Onna nods as she walked over to Eurylochus. “How come you didn't tell him who opened the bag?” He asked. “Because we're all tired, and we all want to go home.” Onna said. “And besides…” She started, before pulling Eurylochus down to her level so she could whisper in his ear “I'm not going to tell him who opened the bag. YOU are.” She said, rage barely concealed in a cheerful tone. “If we get off this island, you are GOING to tell him that you opened the bag” She threatened. She let him go, leaving Eurylochus shell-shocked. It had been rare for him to be at the receiving end of her anger.

Onna meanwhile, looked at the island that they were on, and for a second, she saw what looked like a young girl hiding in the foliage. She stepped to get closer to get a better look, she gasped and ran away. She shook her ‘I'm seeing things now…Being away from Junsuina is messing with my head…’ she thought. Walking back over to Odysseus, who was still trying to calm down. “What must we do now?” She asked. The king looked at her “I want you and Eurylochus to take some scouts and see if this island is secure.We don't need to deal with another cyclops, or anything worse.” He said. Onna nods and she whistles. “Eurylochus. Get some of the men and let's go.” She said. Eurylochus and some of the other men didn't like being bossed around by a woman, but seeing as they didn’t have a choice, Eurylochus called over some of the men, and they ventured deeper into the forest

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Onna couldn't help but just feel a bit…unprepared. At least when Cassandra was with them, she was able to give her a warning of what she might see. Now that she was gone, she, and the rest of them were going into situations blind. Something that might end up getting them all killed…”Maybe if we're lucky, the others will send a rescue fleet for us.” Elpenor suggested “I doubt that. Nobody knew which way we went, and we don't even know which island we're on.” Eurylochus said. Onna still raised her eyebrow “Does this guy EVER feel anything other than dread?” She muttered. Though, she still couldn't help but feel that something was…off about this island, like they were being watched

They walked deeper into the forest, until eventually, they ran across something that they didn't see in a while: a palace. “A palace! Perimedes cheered “Maybe someone lives there!” He said. “Maybe…”Eurylochus said, not having a good feeling about the palace. To their relief, it was a woman, decked out in pink, and with flowers in her hair “Oh! Hello travelers!” She said in a sweet tone “Come inside, you all must be tired.” She said. In no time, almost ALL of them ran inside, tired of everything that had happened and were ready to just have ONE moment of peace. Eurylochus stayed outside however, feeling a little worried. “Eurylochus? What's wrong?” Onna asked.

“I'm…just going to stay outside.” He said. Onna shrugged her shoulders “Ok. If you want you can tell the captain that we found some help.” She said. Stepping inside, Onna's jaw dropped. The palace was beautiful on the inside, pinks and golds everywhere, as plants grew all around them. She also saw that the other men had already ditched their armor and swords. She rolled her eyes ‘Can't teach a old man new tricks…’ she thought. Keeping her sword to her side, she looked around, but her eyes spotted that same little girl again. She gasped and ran to the woman's side. “Is she…your daughter?” She asked their host.

The woman smiled, as she placed a comforting hand on her head “You could say that.” She said “Well…thank you miss…” she started “Circe. Just call me Circe dear.” She said. Onna bowed “Thank you Circe for your kindness.” She said “Such good manners.” Circe noted, as she watched Onna rejoin the others. “Here. Let me get you all something to eat.” She said with a smile. She gently clapped her hands and soon enough, more girls came, holding many different dishes and holding pitchers with wine inside. Onna gave a sigh of relief. It would be nice to eat some real food. Not just some apples. Of course, she couldn't say the same for the other men, who were eyeing the girls more than the food

“We've officially landed in paradise! Maybe we can stay here for the rest of our lives! Or at least until we get rescued or something.” Perimedes said, taking a sip from his glass “As long as the captain doesn't drag us away.” Elpenor said, eating some of the roasted pig in front of him. Onna rolled her eyes, and she herself was about to take a bite too, when Circe's hand gently stopped her. “Come with me.” She said. “...Why?” Onna asked. “Oh don't worry, it'll be quick.” Circe reassured as she had Onna stand back up, and pushed her into the palace. Onna looked back at her allies, but she didn't get to look long as they turned a corner.

“Wouldn't you like to get out of that armor?” Circe asked “You must have traveled with it on for so long.” She said. “Yeah. But it's the only thing that keeps 600 men from looking in places they shouldn't look.” Onna told her. “Well you don't need to worry about that here.” Circe said, as she lead Onna to something she hadn't seen for a while: A bath. “Go on dear, you surely deserve it after being out at sea.” She said. “And…I just take off my armor?” She asked. “That's right.” Circe said “Ok…?” Onna said slowly “Let me just see how the water is.” Circe said, walking to the bath. Onna meanwhile, started carefully shedding her armor, her sword on the top of it.

She saw Circe walking towards the door “I'll be right back.” She said. Before she closed the doors. Once she was gone, Onna took off the rest of her clothes, and walked into the bath. She gave a sigh. This was the first real bath she had in 10 years. The warm water felt great, better than the frigid seas that she, and the others had been tossed around in for the last few months. She let herself slip deeper under the water, letting every part of her body get warm again. However, that didn't last long, as even being underwater brought back the flashbacks of Posiedon, and how angry he looked, threatening to sink the boat in his fury.

She quickly rose back above the water, trying to calm herself down. She looked back over to where her armor was, ready to get it back…it was gone. “Uh…Circe?” She called. The woman didn't respond. “Circe?” She called again. She grew worried. What happened to her? And where was her armor. Her hair had a slight itch in it as she tried to see if there was anything that she could wear to find Circe, and hope, her clothes and armor. She didn't rise right away though, as she didn’t want any of the men seeing her with no clothes. She carefully crawled out, making sure to avoid any form of windows. She felt around at nearby shelves, trying to find something to cover her body. Her hand rummaged above her on various shelves and stools.

At last her hand finally found something! And it felt like a cloth! “Finally!” She sighed as she picked it up. Unfortunately…what she grabbed was a dress, and it was PINK. She gave a LONG groan, but she didn't really have a choice, as the alternative, is stalking around just trying to find her armor, without clothing. And she would rather die than have anyone see her like this. So swallowing every bit of disgust she had, she put on the dress. However she had that little itch in her head again. “Ugh…where is my armor?” She groaned, leaving the room. Looked down the long halls, and walked down one of them. Circe had to be in one of them.

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She walked down the long hall, feeling even more exposed without her armor and sword. “Circe?” She called out “Lady Circe? Where are you?” She called out. Walking into another room of the palace. Inside of it, to her surprise, were a few lions, who lazily laid around the room. Onna tensed. Without her sword and armor these lions would tear her apart. “Oh don't worry about them.” Came the voice of Circe as she sat a hand on her shoulder “They're quite docile.” She said “Docile?! They're lions!” Onna points out. Circe raised an eyebrow, as one of them walked over to her and Onna. Onna tensed as it stalked closer, but Circe just gave it a gentle pat on the head “Try it dear.” She said.

Onna gave her a look that could only he described as “ARE YOU CRAZY?!” but Circe was serious about this. Against her better nature, she gently scratched the lion on the back of its ears, as it purred and leaned into the touch. Onna, though her heart was pounding, was happy that the lion wasn't eating her carcass, but she remembered why she was looking for Circe. “Lady Circe, I needed to ask you about my armor and sword. Do you know where it is?” She asked. “I need it before I can go and find the others.” She said. “Oh. I just put it away for now.” Circe replied. Onna couldn't help but feel just a little bit off when she said that. She could live without armor, but she needed her sword back.

“Ok. Well, I should probably get to the others and tell them.” She said “Maybe I can find my sword too. I need that back before Perimedes does something stupid with it.” Onna said made her way to the door but Circe redirected her again. “Oh don't worry dear, this Perimedes you speak of won't do anything to it.” She said. Onna gave Circe a glare. She felt something was just…OFF about her. About the easy she treated the men, about the way she just FED them without any hesitation, and the way that now she was pulling her away from them, her armor, her sword…Everything just was setting alarm bells in her head. “Lady Circe? Where exactly are we going? Shouldn't I be getting back to the others?” She asked. “Oh don't worry dear. You don't have to worry about them anymore.” Circe said in a caring tone. Now this REALLY put Onna on edge….what did she mean ‘Not anymore?’

A few Nymphs saw Circe and Onna as they walked into a new room. “Lady Circe!” One of them chirped. “Hello my dears. Are you all alright?” Circe asked “Yes! Those men didn't cause as much as a problem as we thought!” A nymph replied. Onna was worried, what on earth were they talking about? “Who's she?” Asked another nymph. “She was with the men on the boat, posing as a man.” Circe said. The Nymphs all gasped “Did they ever figure out that she was a woman? Did they hurt her? How did she get away?” They asked. “I wasn't posing as a man, they all knew.” Onna clarified “And I REALLY need to get back to them. We have to get back to Ithaca, and I have to find my sister-” Onna gets cut off by a nymph hugging her waist “We're your sisters now!” She said.

Now ALL the alarm bells in Onna's head were screaming. “OK. This was fun, but now it's time to find them.” She said. Running out of the room. “Perimedes? Elpenor? Eurylochus?” She called out, the dress hindering her, and her hair getting that itch again. She finally found the room that they were in…at least where they were when they first entered. But her allies were nowhere to be seen… “Where are they?” She asked herself. She looked around, and she saw Perimedes chiton on a chair, same with Elpenor's and the rest of the men who were with them. Onna raised an eyebrow “Did they…try to court one one of these girls?” She asked herself, trying to figure out just why they had just left their clothes on the chairs. “Maybe they're getting a bath too? It'd at least benefit them.” She said.

The sounds of squealing caught her ears, and it was coming from underneath the table. She looked down, and she saw that there was a pig underneath it. “Oh. Hello there.” She said. The pig began loudly squealing, it's hooves jumping up on her “Whoa, whoa! Easy there.” Onna soothed. “Now where did you come from?” She asked. The pig continued to loudly squeal at her, but Onna didn't get it. Did something scare it? “Oh good, you found one of them.” Came the voice of Circe. She turned and saw her, and a few of the Nymphs with her. “Here Piggy!” The youngest one said, grabbing the pig. This seemed to upset it, as it squealed and fought in her arms “Let's get you to the pen.” She said, walking away.

Circe got closer to Onna, who in turn was backing away “Lady Circe. What is going on? Where are the men?” She asked. “I simply revealed their true forms.” Circe replied. “That doesn't answer my-” Onna cut herself off, as she remembered many times in the camp in Troy when she had yelled at the other soldiers, how she had called them time and again “pigs”. And then she remembered just how frightened that pig from before was…almost like it was… “You turned them into pigs…” She whispered in fear. “I did.” Circe said, not an ounce of shame in her voice “But…why?! They're all tired men, tired and just want to get home!” Onna asked, fear in her voice. Oh why couldn't she have her sword now?!

“All men are considered a threat. And I made a promise to myself and my Nymphs, that I will protect them from any threat.” Circe said, getting closer to Onna. “Lady Circe, Please. Please change them back. We just need to go back to the boat, and-” She was cut off by vines wrapping around her legs, stopping her in place “They're not going back to that boat.” Circe said as she was finally close enough to Onna to gently raise her chin up “And neither are you.” She said. Onna gave a Gulp. Suddenly Circe's voice didn't sound comforting anymore. In fact it sounded rather terrifying. “This is your home now. And we are your family.” Circe said in a very gentle tone, but Onna wasn't put at ease.

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The vines around Onna's ankles slowly unraveled, but this didn't ease her fear. But once again, she worked up the courage to ask “Where is my sword? If I am to stay here, I want to have the last remnant of my past with me.” She said. Circe nods. “Very well.” She said. The Nymphs all looked at her curiously. Was Circe letting this girl really have her weapon back? “I will go and retrieve it.” Circe said, before she looked to the Nymphs “Please make sure that she gets settled in.” She said. “We will!” a older Nymph said as they all tugged at Onna's arms, pulling her off into another hall again, but not before Onna got one more look at Circe, eyes wide with fear. As the Nymphs pulled her off, they all asked her questions, but one of them stood out to her

“Why did those men cut your hair?” Asked another nymph. Onna gave her a glare. “I cut it. I had to in order to see properly.” She said. “Maybe Lady Circe can make it grow again.” Said another. “But I don't need it longer. It'll just get in the way.” Onna said, Kind of getting annoyed at the Nymphs. “Oh! I think she already did it!” “Did…what?” Onna asked “See for yourself!” Said another nymph, pointing to a nearby pool of water. Onna looked down into the water, just as she a strand of hair falls onto her face. She looks down in horror, and sees that her hair is as long as Circe's now. “WHAT THE?!” She cried, as she tugged at the now floor length hair. She WISHED that she had her sword so she could cut it down, but unfortunately her sword was still missing

A younger nymph ran her hand through it. “It's so long now! And now it's strong so it can't be cut!” She said. Onna felt her anger rise. Her hair COULDN'T be cut? It was stuck this length FOREVER?!. “But what am I supposed to DO with it?! It's too long!” She exclaimed. “We can help!” Another nymph said, and the others giggled with excitement. Onna felt herself being pushed down so that she was in a sitting position as the Nymphs surrounded her. And to only add to her humiliation, the vines came back, ensuring she couldn't stand up. She looked around, but there was no kind of escape for her. ‘Oh what I wouldn't give to be in Cassandra's place right now…rowing back to Ithaca, safe with Junsuina…’ she thought.

‘ODYSSEUS YOU IDIOT WHERE ARE YOU?!’

What she DIDN'T know, was that Odysseus had just now been warned about what happened from Eurylochus. To say that Odysseus was horrified that his men had been transformed into pigs would be an understatement. “And what about Onna? She was with you too.” Polites asked. “ I don't know. The witch took her somewhere else, I didn't see where, but when I saw her again, she was holding Onna's sword.” Eurylochus explained. Odysseus's eyes grew hard “We have to save them.” He said, ready to head into the forest when Eurylochus grabbed is wrist “No we don't!” He said firmly. Both Odysseus and Polites were shocked by this statement. Eurylochus was just going to leave their brothers in arms behind? “Look. I know that you want to save them, but after everything that has happened, we should just take our chances, and leave.” He said.

Odysseus shook his head. “We can't just leave our allies behind. Maybe I can negotiate with her, and get her to change them back.” He said. “And if she doesn't WANT to negotiate?” Eurylochus asked. “Then it's time for a new plan.” Odysseus said, hand resting on his sword. Polites gave his friend a worried look “Be careful Ody…” he warned “Just try talking to her first.” He told her. Odysseus gave a small smirk “I will Polites. Open arms, I remember.” He said, before turning towards the forest “Eurylochus, stay on the beach with the others until I get back.” Odysseus ordered. Eurylochus straightened his back before Odysseus disappeared into the forest.

Once he left, Polites asked Eurylochus something “Hey Eurylochus? Why did Onna start fighting you, back on the boat?” He asked. Eurylochus looked away in guilt. Now he suddenly wished that Onna DID tell what happened with the bag and how he opened it. “Well. I'm…uh…” he started, mind fumbling for an excuse. He then shook his head “We shouldn't focus on that now.” He said. “Right now we need to prepare the boat for when we set off again.” “But shouldn't we wait until Ody comes back with the others?” Polites asked. “Polites.” Eurylochus started “And Onna! She wasn't turned into a pig! She was taken somewhere else!” Polites told him. “Who knows what happened to her? What if the witch is trying to turn her against us?” He asked. Eurylochus froze. He didn't think about that. Onna was already a formidable force by herself, but she was still loyal to the king. So if Circe really was turning her against the rest of them…

He shook his heart “No. Onna is tough.” He said. And it would take a lot to get her to break and turn against us.” He said, though his mind wandered to what Circe could be doing to her right now, what kind of cold hard torture tactics he could be using on her right now to break her.

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‘どうして私はここに来たのだろう？人生で何が間違っていたのだろう？’ those were the thoughts in Onna's head, as she found herself, in the middle of a small group of Nymphs, who were braiding flowers, chains and vines into her now long hair, with the lotus from the lotus eaters island in the middle of the braid. Her eyes twitched, she was a WARRIOR! She was meant to be cutting down her enemies, not being pampered and dressed up like a doll! “It's almost ready!” One if them said. “Yay.” She said unenthusiastically. Though, a small part of this reminded her of when she braided her own sister's hair. Her heart ached as she wanted to get back to her, and just be a sister again..

“Onna?” Came Circe's voice. The Nymphs all looked up when they saw her, and they gasped at what she was holding. Onna's eyes widened in relief when she saw it was her sword. She gave a shuddering breath of relief when she saw it “I found your sword. And as promised, I will give it back” Circe said. Onna was about to take it, when Circe pulled back. “However, you must promise me of something as well.” She said “And…that would be?” Onna asked. “Promise me that you will not hurt my Nymphs with your weapon.” Circe said, her voice in the same tone she hears Queen Penelope use. Onna nods “I promise. I will not use my blade to harm you, or your Nymphs.” She said. “Very well.” Circe said, handing her the blade.

Onna feels her like a weight had been removed from her heart as she held the blade in her hands. “Why do you need a blade? The men are gone.” A nymph asked her. “Oh, it's not because of the men.” Onna told her “This is something that I can't leave behind. A bit of my past that I refuse to forget.” She said, revealing the blade from its sheath. “And you know how to use a sword?” Another one of them asked. Onna nods “I grew up learning how to hold a blade. It's part of my very being.” She said. One of the Nymphs traced their hand on the etching on the blade, eyes wide in curiosity. “Can we see you use the blade?” She asked “Well. That depends on what Circe says. She doesn't even want me to HAVE a sword.” She reminds them. “She also said as long as you don't hurt us!” Said another.

The warrior raised an eyebrow, and the Nymphs all gave her pleading eyes. She smiled, they all reminded her of Junsuina when she tried to use puppy dog eyes on her to get what she wanted…and it usually worked. “Alright. I'll show you.” She said. “Just find me some logs and I'll show you what I can do.” The Nymphs all scattered, the younger ones running to find Circe, while the older ones finished braiding Onna's hair, tying a small gold chain and a flower at the bottom. “There. All done.” One of them said as the vines moved away again. Onna stood up, relieved to finally be on her feet again, even though she was in a dress and her hair longer than her own body. But on the bright side, she had her sword again. “We found some logs!” Came the voice of a younger nymph. “And lady Circe wants to see you too!” Said another. Onna grew nervous. She knew Circe didn’t even want her to have the sword in general, but she didn't want to get turned into a pig either. So she had work with what she had…

Back in the forest, Odysseus trekked in deeper to find Circe's palace, but he did have to admit, he had no idea what he was going to do once he GOT there. He was going in blind and he knew it. He could always try to lie his way out…no, Circe would see right through it. Swords wouldn't work either, since she had magic. That's when he heard the rustling of leaves behind him. On instinct, his hand flew to his sword, ready to draw it if necessary. He heard something behind him, that he could have easily mistaken for a bird. It was laughter, quick and birdlike. He then felt a tap on his shoulder, and turned quickly, sword drawn. He saw nothing there however, just as he felt fingers walking up his back, hearing that laugh again. He turned around again, but once again, nothing was there. He heard that strange laugh bounce around him as he tried to find the source.

“I must say…” said an unfamiliar voice “What a brilliant speech you gave back there.” Odysseus tried to find the voice “Who goes there?” He asked “Just a friend, who can help you save your man…and woman.” Said the voice. “You know, Circe isn't a foe to underestimate. She's a crafty witch, and you'll have nearly no chance of defeating her.” it said. “Unless of course, you have some divine intervention. A blessing from a certain God if you will…” Said the voice. Odysseus tensed. He already had a very bad time with Poseidon, and Aeolus's game resulted in them getting stranded there in the first place. So he didn't want to make whoever was talking to him angry…especially when there's so much at stake right now. “Oh Don't worry Dawling. I'm just someone who wants to…send a message.” This time the voice came right behind him again, and he finally got the source of it.

Behind him, just barely floating above the ground, was a man, a large hat covering his eyes, thought he was tanned, robes flowing around him, and winged sandals flapping to keep him steady. Odysseus gaped in shock at the God that was in front of him

“Hermes?!”

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The messenger God gave a another bird like laugh at Odysseus's reaction, landing next to him and throwing an arm over his shoulder. “Now then. Let's get down to business.” He said, a smile flashed “You need to get your men, and woman, back from Circe, and since she's magic it won't be a fair fight.” Hermes said. Odysseus slowly nods, his stance weary. He didn't know what Hermes was going on about, but he knew that the messenger God was also a trickster. So he had to be sharp just in case this was a trick. “Yes. And I need to make sure that she doesn't do anything to me in the meantime.” He said “And that's EXACTLY why I'm here!” Hermes said “I'm here to help you level the playing field.” He said.

“You see. Circe is no ordinary witch. You already know that she can easily turn you into an animal, especially a pig. She can also seduce you with her beauty, making it so you lower your guard around her, such as many of your men had done.” Hermes explained, and he emphasized his point by at suddenly transforming both him and himself into animals, with him turning into a chicken, and Odysseus into a pig, before he changed him back and dipped Odysseus down like a dance. “Not only that, but she cam summon her little “pet”. A monster with the body of a Lion, the tail of a snake and the head of a goat that she calls a Chimera. Needless to say, she has many ways to make sure you don't best her.” He said. “But now, you have ME!” He said, a big sign appearing above him blinking out “HERMES!”, With confetti falling from above, and a angelic choir singing his name.

Odysseus could only watch in complete and utter confusion at the sight, some of the confetti falling onto him. “So…what do I do? How do I beat her?” He asked. “Well that's the best part!” Hermes replied, looking in his bag “Now let's see…where did I put that thing.” He muttered, pulling out random items, including a vase that he stole, a statue that he stole, a warhammer he stole, a lyre with sun symbols that he stole, a branch with flowers that have the words “Happy Birthday Junsuina” on a small tag, and a small hand carved owl that has the words “To Telemachus” on it, until finally “AHA! I found it!” He exclaimed, pulling out an odd looking flower. “THIS. is the key to beating Circe!” He said, before flying very close to Odysseus “You see, this here will give you a fighting chance against her.” Hermes explained, before using one of his hands to open Odysseus's mouth “And the only way that you'll obtain the power, is to eat it, and let the power come as you digest it.” He said, shoving the flower into Odysseus's mouth, and then shutting it.

“Of course, the effects are temporary, so you better be sure that she's down before she does anything else.” Hermes warned.The king was not expecting Hermes to shove a strange flower with glowing roots down his throat, but then again, it was Hermes. The trickster God. He could now feel the effects of the flower, as colors and sounds blurred, and his eyes got large. “Oh! OH! And you'll NEVER guess what I call this root!” Hermes said in a excited tone. “Do I WANT to know?” Odysseus asked, gazing down at his now swirling hand. “HOLY MOLY!” Hermes exclaimed, now laughing at his own words, before he grabbed Odysseus by the arms and the two of them flew over the forest, and directly to Circe's palace

“Here's your stop!” He said, dropping Odysseus to the ground. Odysseus saw where he was and he felt a little more at ease than before “Hermes!” He called, just as the messenger God flew off “Thank you…” he said. Hermes just gave another smile and flew back down to him. “Don't thank me just yet friend, you very well may die if this goes poorly.” He said, before giving Odysseus's nose a little boop. “Good luck!” He said before disappearing back into the sky at breakneck speed. Odysseus watched he flew away, before he turned to Circe's palace. Eurylochus was right when he said that it looked innocent enough. Flowers and vines wrapping around the pillars on the outside, and a large stained glass window sat above him. But he knew EXACTLY what was in there: A witch that transformed his men into pigs. He could only hope that whatever Hermes gave him worked…

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Walking inside, he could see many Nymphs playing and chatting with each other, one of them even holding a small piglet. When they noticed them, they then ran towards a tall woman. One that he could only assume was Circe. Odysseus took a deep breath. Here he went. Hoping DESPERATELY that this thing Hermes gave him worked. He took a deep breath, and went inside, scaring the Nymphs away. Except for one. One that he could probably guess was Circe. “Oh Lady Circe. Lady of the Palace.” He starts “I am terribly sorry for barging into your home, but I just need to make sure of something.” He said “I sent some or my soldiers into the forest earlier and they found their way to your palace, and they have yet to return. I don't mean to jump to conclusions, but I just need to ask you…did you do something to them?” He asked.

Circe raised an eyebrow “ME? All I did was reveal their true forms.” She said. Odysseus however raised an eyebrow “Well…funny thing is. One of them was a woman. A woman named Onna. She is the only woman that was on my ship, and she wields a sword…surely you didn't hurt her as well did you?” He asked. This made the amused smile fall from Circe's face. “A young woman like her doesn't deserve to be trapped on a ship of deplorable men.” She states. “She's better off staying here, where she is loved, and where no one can hurt her.” She said. Odysseus raised an eyebrow. “So…you HAVE seen her. So that means you seen my men. And turned them into pigs.” He said. Circe narrowed her eyes with a small Huff.

“I don't know who you are, nor do I care. And I certainly do not wish to know why you're here. But one thing I have sworn on, is that I will not let outsiders harm me and my Nymphs.” She said, stepping towards him. “So I'm not taking chances.” She spat. She snapped her fingers, and a large beast materialized in front of him. So this was the Chimera that Hermes had mentioned. Had he not run into Hermes, he might have immediate drawn his sword in fear. But instead, he stared down the large beast…much to Circe's frustration. Usually the Chimera scared most men before they ran away screaming. But she wouldn't stop. She couldn't let her Nymphs get hurt. Or worse. The vines around them reacted to her call, all of them wriggling to life to help their master. “If you try ANYTHING. Try to pull anything that I don't approve of, If you so much as make ONE wrong move, you are DONE FOR.” She said.

But Odysseus kept a neutral face. “That may be true…but I think you'll see that your tricks have no effect on me. I just ate a flower with a root that gives me powers, just like you.” He smugly said. Circe raised an eyebrow at the statement. “You must be lying. Mortals cannot obtain Moly. They would die within inches of it.” She states. “Well then, I must be a God. One so strong that I can obtain the one thing that keeps me level with you, with my bare hand-” Odysseus was cut off by Circe immediately cutting him off “Hermes gave it to you didn't he.” She asked in a annoyed tone. Odysseus looked away, an embarrassed blush overtaking his face “Ok, fine, he did, BUT REGARDLESS!” He said, now drawing his sword. “You and I are equally matched now. And I also sworn to protect my brothers in arms. I am NOT leaving without my men and Onna.” He states

He then finally uses the power of the Moly, and creates a giant monstrous Cyclops, that roars at the Chimera. The two beasts begin to fight, the Chimera biting into the Cyclops shoulder and throwing him across the room, then the snakes struck its neck, and the goat headbutted it in the eye, but the cyclops grabbed one of the pillars, and smacked it against the chimera's head. It disappeared in a puff of smoke, and Odysseus held his sword to Circe's neck. “You lost. Change my men back, and give back Onna.” He said firmly, done playing games with the witch. Circe however wasn't giving up that easily. “I have absolutely no reason to do that. The last time I let stranger live, everyone who lived here suffered for it. My Nymphs are like my daughters, and I will not let someone like you, or your men harm them. And you may try to hide it. But everyone's true colors come out…in acts of Lust.” She said, a smile appearing on her face

“I'm not sure I follow”

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Circe gave a smile as she seductive stroked a finger down Odysseus's sword “There are other forms of persuasion you know.” She said “Other ways of control.” She informed, snapping her fingers as the curtains shut themselves, and candles lit, as she undid her hair from the tight ponytail it was in. “You must be as tired as all of the other men…” She said, now pushing Odysseus sword away, and lifting his chin with a single finger. “You have so much on your shoulders, making sure that your men are alive, trying to get back to your home. You must be exhausted…” She said seductively. Odysseus knew what she was doing, she was playing into his sadness. His longing to get back, and now she was using HERSELF as a means to get his guard down.

“Surely I can take that away from you…” Circe purred close to his ear “Right here…right now…” She said. Odysseus gulped. Circe was here, willing to give him the love that he craved from his wife for so long, but he couldn't betray his wife, its been years since he saw her, and he would never find another love. What he failed to see however, was the dagger hidden behind Circe's back, ready to plunge it unto his body when his guard was fully down. “If you really want to save your men, you'll have to be ready to do ANYTHING for them.” She said, a hand on his shoulder, now pushing towards a nearby lounge chair, and pushing him down. She then crawled towards him on the same lounge, dagger still hidden “C'mon now. Don't be afraid…” she purred, like a lion about to pounce on its prey.

“I'm sure that you already have done this before…on that young woman, Onna.” She said “You should know a pretty face when you see it.”, She said, ready to give a firm kiss to his lips, as well as plunge tye dagger into his neck. Odysseus shook his head and pushed her back. “I CAN'T!” He shouts, his voice echoing through the palace. “I can't do it…” he sighed “My Wife awaits for me back in Ithaca…and I have to get back to her.” Odysseus said “It's been 10 years. 10. Long. Years. Since I've seen my Penelope, ny love…and now the Earth-Shaker desires to make the voyage as long as possible, because Onna is on the ship…” he states. Circe grows curious now “Onna? The woman that's part of your crew?” She asked “Yes. She's caused Poseidon to lash out, because we had taken her away from Poseidon's son…and now he wants to take her back, even killing us in the process.” He said.

“Why not just let her stay here?” Circe suggested “Why doom yourself if she is the main reason Poseidon is after you?” She asked. “Because Onna has a reason to get back to Ithaca as well…and that reason is her sister.” Odysseus admits. Circe's eyebrow raised. She remembered that Onna had a sister that she wanted to get back to. More than anything. But she didn't think that Odysseus knew it too. “Please. I beg you lady Circe…let me and my crew leave so that we may return to our home…” Odysseus pleads. Circe arm holding the dagger twitched, and then she sighed “So…you're dealing with Poseidon eh?” She asked. “I may be able to help you get around him to return…” She said. “Wait. You're helping us?” Odysseus asked, confused at her change of heart. “Yes. You've already proven that you really do have no ill will towards me and my Nymphs, so I'll help you return home.” She said.

“I know of a Prophet that can help you return.” Circe informed, grabbing a few bottles as she walked outside “Of course, this Prophet is dead.” She added. “So you'll need to make a trip to the underworld in order to speak with him.” She said. Odysseus blinked. As if their journey home wasn't hard ENOUGH. Now they had to make a détour to the underworld? “And this Prophet will tell us how to return home?” He asked. “If you listen to him. Yes.” Circe told him. “Oh. And one more thing.” She said. “Try telling your men to stop antagonizing Onna.” Odysseus looked away. He knew the…friction that came with Onna and the rest of his men. “Come with me and I'll reverse the spell on your men.” She said, leading him outside. On the way, he could hear the sound of wood being cut in half.

“Show it again! Show it again!” Came the sound of the nymphs. They passed a few of them, that were with

“Onna?!”

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Earlier before Odysseus came, The Nymphs had brought the logs so that Onna could show them how she used her sword. She had shown them how she cut through the logs with one single swipe, and how if she wanted to, could chop down trees in a single strike. The Nymphs, though didn't want her to chop down any trees, so she stuck with just slashing through the logs. That's when one of the Nymphs ran to them “There's another man entering the palace!” She said “And he's covered in scars!” She said. Onna's eyes widened. There was only one man who fit that description “Odysseus!” She cried, as she rushed to find him, only for the vines to come back again, and wrap around her ankles and wrists “Let me go!” She yelled “Odysseus run!!” She cried. “Don't worry!” Said one of the Nymphs, “Lady Circe will take care of him soon.” She said

Onna struggled against the vines “No! NO!” She yelled “I made a Vow…I will not break it!” She grunted. However, she stopped when one of the lions came back. This time it didn't look as docile as it was before as it gave a low growl. “Hey! Bad kitty!” A younger nymph said, giving its nose a bap “Go back to the palace!” She scolded. “Ugh. Lions. They never listen to you.” She said. A few minutes passed however, and they heard Circe talking to Odysseus. “Did she win?” One asked “Is he gone?” Another questioned. “I don't know…I'm gonna check.” Said the tallest one. She quietly made her way inside of the palace, and for several moments, it was quiet, even the vines around Onna had unraveled again. And then…”Lady Circe is coming!” Came the tall nymph again. “And she's changing those men back!” She said.

The Nymphs all gasped, but Onna gave a quiet sigh of relief. Those men may have been ridiculous, and acted like children sometimes, but she had to admit, even being turned into a pig isn't the best way to go out. She grabbed her sword again, just as Circe and Odysseus came around the corner “Onna?!” Odysseus exclaimed “Your Highness!” Onna gasped, giving him a respectful bow. “You're OK! And you're not a pig!” She said in relief. Odysseus nods “Circe has agreed to return the men to normal, and she told us how to get home.” He told her

Onna internally cheered. They had a way to get back! All wasn't lost yet! They could still get back! “Come along, your men are this way.” Circe said, as some pig pens were a small distance away. Odysseus nodded, and Onna was about to come with him, when one of the younger nymphs hugged her waist “Are you gonna leave?” She asked. Onna couldn't help but just feel a small pang of guilt. This young nymph reminded her SO MUCH of Junsuina, and it just made her heart ache more. She kneeled down to her height “I have to, my sister waits for me. But maybe one day I'll come back, and you can meet her too.” She soothed petting the small nymph on the head, the same way she would when Junsuina had a bad dream. This comforted the small nymph, who gave her a small smile. She then followed Odysseus and Circe to the pig pens, that same nymph holding her hand the entire time. Circe then took a small bottle and splashed it over the pigs in the pen.

The pigs began to glow, and then retransform into people, hooves spreading into hands, snouts and tails shrinking away, pinkish skin returning to human tones. In seconds, they had all returned into humans…and they were naked. Onna looked away, and her hand on instinct covered the little Nymphs eyes as Circe gave a laugh at Odysseus's dumbfounded face as the men all held their heads “Captain!” Elpenor cried “What happened?! Why are we naked?!” He asked “Erm…maybe that's a tale for another time.” Odysseus said, eyes darting around to avoid his…naked soldiers “Get dressed, and get ready to set sail.” He said “We're getting back to Ithaca?” Perimedes asked. “Eh…sort of. We need to just make a small stop somewhere to get help.” Odysseus explained. “And that is?” Perimedes asked, he, and the rest of the men, and Onna getting close to hear what he was about to say.

“We have to go to the underworld.”

“WHAT?!”

Chapter Text

Back on Ithaca, A little more time now passes. After the day that the ships came back, Things in Ithaca were slowly becoming…questionable. Specifically, it had now been 14 years since the king hadn't returned, and the queen was now under question if she should remarry. Naturally, Penelope said no…but she couldn't rule alone forever. A kingdom needed a king, and Telemachus wasn't of age yet. Sooner or later, she would need to find another to take Odysseus's place. Penelope looked over a balcony, one that gave her a good view of the town below. Her eyes drooped with sadness. Her heart still longed for her husband, but he was lost somewhere at sea. And sooner or later, the people's unrest would have to lead to her having to remarry…something that she would rather die than do.

Telemachus came to his mother's side “Mother? Are you OK?” He asked. Penelope gave her son a sad smile “Yes my dear…” she said, gently cupping her son's face. However, Telemachus saw through his mother's facade: “You're thinking about father again…” he whispered. “Yes…” She sighed “I know that he's still out there.” She said. “He can't be too far.” Her eyes then trailed down to the village “But I fear that the people of Ithaca won't wait for long for their king's return. Soon I will have to remarry if he doesn't return.” She said. Telemachus held his mother's hand “He will return.” He said firmly. “I know he will” He said. Penelope's smile became more real as she held him close. “We just have to be strong…” She said. “And keep holding faith.” The two of them stared out at the town, until Telemachus saw Junsuina down there. His eyes widened, something that Penelope picked up on. “Go on son.” She said, her eyes playful “You can go and see Junsuina” She said

Telemachus blushed “Mother! We're just friends!” He admitted “Tell that for when it's time for my future grandchildren.” Penelope teased. Telemachus's face was as red as an apple now, as he made his way out of the palace and into the town. It wasn't a secret now that he was 14, and now was officially becoming a man. It also wasn't a secret now that Junsuina was still living in the castle with them. Not that anyone minded. The girl was insistent that she earns her keep the same way that her sister did when she was protecting the royal family. This resulted in her helping a lot around the castle and the kingdom, as she was a fast learner, and even faster at getting chores done. Of course Telemachus couldn't help but feel just a little bit jealous, especially since Junsuina always was doing a job here and there now, because she felt that she didn't want to feel like a leech to the Royal family.

Telemachus searched for Junsuina, and he found her current helping around the village. She always did the occasion jobs here and there. From helping the fisherman in the sea, to helping pick fruit for the market, everyone usually saw her her helping around. This in turn also allowed her to learn various skills. From carving wood to blowing glass, she had learned on her own. It was useful too, as she felt that she needed to be a little bit independent from the Queen and Prince. This time, she had been helping at a pottery shop, making bowls and vases for the town. The owner of the shop noticed the prince in the doorway “Oh! Your Highness!” He exclaimed, kneeling down to him “Good Morning Sebastian.” Telemachus greeted “What can I do you for?” Sebastian asked “I was just wondering if Junsuina was done yet.” He said. “I'll check on her. She's been making bowls all day! Not that I mind. She's quick at it.” Sebastian said, walking to the back of the shop. “Oh Junsuina!” He called “Yes?” Came the voice of the girl “The prince is here to see you.” He said. “Oh! I'm coming!” She said, as she walked out.

Junsuina had grown just as much as Telemachus had. Even though she was two years older than him, she was still shorter than him. Of course, she wasn't any less beautiful. She had grown into a beautiful young woman that many now sometimes wanted to date, or even court…much to an jealous Telemachus's dismay. “Sorry! I got a little carried away again.” She said, brushing away clay from her fingers. “Ah, I don't mind. More things for sale. And speaking of which…” Sebastian started, before handing her a small pouch of coins “Your payment for the day.” He said. Junsuina gave him a small bow “Thank you.” She said before joining up with Telemachus “Hi Tele!” She said cheerfully, the two of them making their way outside into the village

The two of them spent the rest of the day chatting each other up, helping the occasional villager with a small task, and generally just being friends. Their little stroll however stopped them at the shore, where the two of them stared sadly at the sea. Just like they had the last few times, with the small glimmer of hope that they might see that last ship. That they might see spot a glimpse of their missing families…but it usually wasn't meant be, as the sea remained the same as always…with no ships. Junsuina looked down at the sand. Her heart longing for her sister. She remember the day that she met Cassandra and Saisei, and how she had told her that Onna would return, along with the king, but it would be a long time from now, and she may not be able to recognize her when she returned. Junsuina had protested, stating that she'd know her sister no matter what, but Cassandra just gave her a look, and stated that she was never wrong.

The two of them sat in the sand, and just gazed out at the sea “Do you think the gods find it funny?” Telemachus asked “What?” Junsuina asked back “That both my father, and your sister are still out there somewhere, and they know that we're still waiting for them.” He asked. Junsuina sighed “I think that the gods know what they're doing…” She said. “But I'm not giving up yet. Onna is still out there.” Junsuina told him. “And if she's out there, your father is out there too…” “ she said, trying to give Telemachus some faith. The prince gazed at her, Junsuina always did keep the faith that her sister would come back. But it's been years, and no one has had any word on them yet. However, she still held out faith. And that faith extended on to the royal family,for if Onna returned, then Odysseus would too.

“Just keep holding on Telemachus…” She said, giving his hand a reaffirming squeeze. “Just keep waiting. Good things come to those who wait.” She said. Telemachus's couldn't help but smile. At least they were waiting together…

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To say that preparing for the trip to the underworld was filled with dread. And could you blame them? They were headed to where those who were slain, who had fallen, who were killed and who passed peacefully resided. After Circe had given them some food for the journey (Another small kindness that the crew greatly appreciated) She had informed them that the underworld was dangerous. Since it was Hades domain. “At least we didn't lose any men…” Odysseus sighed, remembering that most of his men were back in Ithaca. “Yes. But that doesn't mean that your enemies might be there as well.” Circe warned. “Just stay on your boat, and stay together until you find the Prophet.” She said. Odysseus nods and turns to rejoin his men, all of which were back at the ship, packing the food and supplies needed before they set off.

“Captain?” Came the voice of Eurylochus, who was still relieved that Odysseus was relieved, and that the men had returned to normal. “Yes Eurylochus?” Odysseus asked “Are you sure that we should listen to Circe? What if this is another trick?” He asked “I know that going to the underworld is an unexpected move, but she said that this may be the only way that we can avoid Posiedon from coming after us again.” He said. Eurylochus raised an eyebrow “We still can leave Onna behind. Once we return to Ithaca, we can get a rescue party to come back for her.” He said. “Onna wants to get back to Ithaca just as much as well as all of us do.” Odysseus reminded “We can't leave her behind, no matter what may happen next.” He said. Eurylochus sighed, but he didn't argue back. Besides…he still needed to tell Odysseus about that bag. “Speaking of Onna. Where is she?” Polites asked, his winion friend still on his shoulder, eating an apple

“Apparently, Circe's Nymphs all wanted to say goodbye to her before we left.” Odysseus said “So they're still in the palace.” Eurylochus states. “Yes.” Odysseus said “I'm going to go tell her that we'll be leaving in a few moments.” He said “Please hurry…The rest of the crew already are weary about this.” Eurylochus told him. Odysseus nodded. “I'll return very soon.” He said, before making his way back to the palace. When he returned, he saw Onna surrounded by the Nymphs, all of them packing various dresses and jewelry into a small bag, as the youngest nymph seemed to be making something from a flower stem “I know you're trying to be kind, but I really don't need more dresses!” Onna tried to tell them “Every girl needs a change of clothes! Even if they're on a boat of smelly men!” One of them told her.

Onna fought back a smirk at that remark. It was true, she was still stuck on the same boat as the rest of the men. “Onna?” Odysseus said, getting their attention “Are we almost ready?” She asked. “Yes. We're just about ready to go.” He said. “Ok…are you sure we really need to go to the underworld though?” She asked “Can't we just sail back the way we came?” She asked. Odysseus shook his head “If we do Poseidon will come after us again. This might be the only way we can get back without any more delays.” He told her “And if this does cause more delays?” Onna asked, a eyebrow raised “I mean no disrespect, but maybe I can just hide inside of the boat again and stay out of sight.” She said. “Poseidon knows who we are now…and he's not one to forget. He WILL return, so we must be prepared.” Odysseus told her. Onna sighed, she had hoped that they wouldn't have to go…but it would seem they didn't have a choice.

“Alright. Lets get back to the boat” She said, just as the Nymphs handed her the still small bag. “Here you go!” They said. “Thanks…what exactly is in here?” Onna asked “Just a few dresses, some extra jewelry, and a few potions that might be helpful in case those men try anything again.” One told her “Wait! I still have to finish this!” the smallest nymph said “Well hurry! They're going to leave soon.” Said another. “What's she making?” Onna asked, tilting her head. “She's making you a flower ring. A symbol of friendship.” One of the older Nymphs explained. “Ok! Now I'm done!” The young nymph said, running over to Onna, and placing the small grass ring in her hand. It was woven out of the small blades of grass around them, and had a small flower in the middle. When Onna slipped it on, it began to bloom into more flowers around her finger.

Onna smiled at the Nymph “Thank you very much.” She said “I hope you come back soon.” The little nymph said, hugging her waist one more time. This time however, Onna reciprocated the hug, and gently pat her on the head. When they finally broke from the hug, Onna later rejoined Odysseus back at the ship. Where Circe was about to see them off. “Thank you again Circe.” He said. The witch nods, but a mischievous smirk plays on her lips “No need to thank me. Just try to make sure your men don't act like pigs next time, or I might change them again.” She said. Odysseus couldn't tell if she was playing, or if she was serious, but he didn't want to find out “I'm here!” Onna called, back in her normal clothing and armor. “Are we ready?” She asked “Yes. We're ready to set off.” He said. Onna nods before she bows to Circe again

“Thank you again Lady Circe.” She said. Circe raised her head again with a single finger, and this time it felt sincere “You're welcome back on Aeaea any time.” She said. “Maybe one day I'll get to meet your sister that you love so much.” She said. Onna nods, the very idea that she might see her sister again was enough to get her ready for the next leg of the journey. “Let us go then…” Odysseus said, heading towards the boat. Onna nods as she follows him onto the ship, and they set off, the small island getting smaller and smaller, as they ventured to find the Underworld…

Chapter Text

The air seemed to get thinner as the boat ventured closer to the gates of the underworld. Odysseus looked ahead with determined, yet fearful eyes. “Alright men. We must remember what Circe said. Until we find this Prophet, we must not stop for nothing. No matter what we see, or what we hear.” He said “Yes Sir.” The men replied. “The underworld messes with your mind. Plays tricks on you.” He said. “Don't stop rowing no matter what you see or hear.” He commanded “Yes sir.” The men replied. “Good.” Odysseus said as they reached the mouth of a cave. The darkness in there seemed to go on forever. As they entered the cave, the waters of the ocean glowed. But unlike the calming glow of the Lotus Eaters island, this light was harsh, and ominous. Onna looked over the boat, and she saw just WHY the water was glowing.

They were rowing on top of SOULS.

The sounds of screaming plagued her ears as she saw the faces of those long gone float down past them. “Is this…truly where we go when we die?” She asked. “Yep. Once your soul leave your body, this is where we go…” Polites said, the little winion shivering on his neck. “It was always different…what I was told, about what happens when we died.” Onna said. “How so?” He asked “In the land where I came from…we were told that souls were sacred. That when we passed on, that we would reunite with our ancestors in the heavens.” She said. “Well I guess no matter what we believe…this is where we all end up.” Polites said, his eyes watching the souls that drifted by with a small sadness. Onna looked down, and she recognized some of them as the people she slaughtered during the war. And when she listened closer, she could hear just what they were screaming. 

“Run!!...it's the Butcher of Troy!!...Mommy! Mommy! Help me!!...My Love! You must flee!...” Onna almost felt sorry for them. But she was a fighter after all…she was bound to have to take down her enemies eventually. However, deeper down the river of souls, She heard different screams. Screams in a language she remembered 逃げろ！奴らだ！…武司様を探せ…清美様はどこだ！…少女たちを探せ！Onna's breath got quicker. She recognized those voices. Those were the voices from her home. The grip on her sword tightened at the voices “Onna? Are you OK?” Odysseus asked when he saw her breathing quicken “The souls…” she started “Those souls are from my village…” she said, trying to fight the tears away. “Your village? You mean…before you washed ashore?” Polites asked. Onna only nodded, the bad memories slowly coming back to mind. “The bad men…they killed them all…” She whispered. She went to the other side of the boat so that she wouldn’t have to see the faces of those that perished. The voices still plagued her thought, their screams and pained cries echoing around her.

“...Onna?” This perked her ears up. That voice…is couldn't be? “...Onna. my little warrior.” It was impossible…it couldn't be… “Mother?! Father?!” She asked, looking over the edge of the boat. To her heartbreaking surprise, there they were. Her mother and father. Standing underneath a small tree that could only be the work of Persephone. Her breath quickened. It was them! How could it be them?! Oh who was she kidding they were in the underworld! “Mother! Father!” She shouts, dropping her blade and getting ready to jump from the boat, and embrace them again. Which made it even harder when Polites had to hold her back. “LET ME GO!” She cried, as she tried reaching for them once more. Tears now flowing freely flowing from her eyes. Her cries however got the attention of the two spirits, as they floated toward her. The two of them held a spectral hand to Onna's face.

“Onna…” her mother cried “Onna…my little warrior…” her father sighed. Onna couldn't help but feel just the smallest bit of comfort. Even if her mother and father were dead, she could at least have the opportunity to see them one last time in the underworld. They then faded away, joining the rest of her village in the river of souls. The tears from her eyes falling into the river as she saw them float away. Polites placed a hand on her shoulder, but didn't expect it when she full on hugged his, tears still dropping from her eyes. He carefully pat her on the back, trying to comfort her. “It'll be OK Onna…” He said. “Everything is going to be OK…” he said. Odysseus also placed a hand on her shoulder in a effort to comfort her. She and Junsuina had said on multiple occasions that their village was destroyed by some ‘bad men’ years ago. But every time, the girl's seemed to have a bad reaction to even bringing it up. Now Onna was forced to face everyone that had perished at the time.

Onna tried to get her breathing under control, but the screams echoed around her, the memories of that faithful day coming back to her like a tidal wave on a city. So many lives lost, so much fire, so much chaos. And she and Junsuina were the only ones to escape it by pure chance. It was almost too much to think about. “Onna. It'll be OK.” Polites comforted. “Let's go under the deck. I'll go down there with you until we leave.” He said. Onna just nods as they descend under the deck. Odysseus and Eurylochus watch as they went underneath, when Eurylochus looked ahead “Captain, Look!” He said. Odysseus saw what Eurylochus was looking at, for there was another soul overlooking the river. A soul that had many Bandages wrapped around their eyes, holding a staff in their hands.

They had found the Prophet.

Chapter Text

Odysseus made his way off of the boat as they slowed to a stop. “I will return shortly. Nobody gets off the boat. Understood?” He said. “Yes sir.” They all replied back. He them walked up the large cliff, Each step echoing around him like the screams of those that have passed on. The walk upwards almost felt like an eternity as he wondered just what stood in their way now. It should just be a straight shot back to Ithaca right? It shouldn't be a challenge right? Those thoughts bounced around in Odysseus's head as he made his way higher and higher, until he finally reached the Prophet. “I have been expecting you.” He said “I have seen your coming to me.” He said. “Yes. We have come to know what we must do to get back to Ithaca.” Odysseus said. The Prophet said nothing, but his eyes glowed faintly under the Bandages.

“I see…and you have come from Circe, the Daughter of Helios, in order to find me. Tiresias.” He said. Odysseus couldn't help but just feel a little intimidated. This was a Prophet that saw everything, knew everything possible outcome. It was like seeing Cassandra again, if she wasn't cursed. “Yes.” He said “Do you see us getting home?” He asked. Tiresias didn't say anything at first, but after a few moments, he spoke “I see many things ahead, that block the way back. Sirens trying to lure you to your doom, having to navigate through the laid of Scylla, Someone close to you revealing a secret, at the cost of your trust.” He said. “Zeus judgement results in a great sacrifice of one of your own. But I also forsee you finding Helios's sacred cattle.” He then got VERY close to Odysseus, his eyes faintly glowing “If any harm comes to these cattle, you may never see your home again.” He warned.

Odysseus nods, though most of what Tiresias told him made him worried. Sirens? Scylla? Trust being broken? It was almost too much for him to bear. But the warning about the sun cattle stood out to him the most. He hoped that the food that Circe supplied them with would last long enough to get past the island. “Your palace. I forsee it being filled with men, who longer believed you have passed on. Vying for your crown and wife.” Tiresias told him. This filled Odysseus with rage. He knew that he had been gone for too long, but he never imagined it was long to the point that Penelope would be forced to remarry. This made him even more determined to return back to Ithaca. Even by any means necessary.

Odysseus nods “Thank you Tiresias.” He said, as he began walking back to rejoin his men. “Remember my warnings. Don't let the sun cattle die, or you'll surely perish!” Tiresias warned once more. This voice echoing around them. When Odysseus returned to his men, he told them about the impending challenges that awaited them all. Eurylochus saw him as he came down from the cliff “Captain. What happened up there? What did the Prophet say?” He asked. “He said that we'll have more challenges ahead, but there will be a moment when we find Helios's sun cattle. And we can't hurt ANY of them if we want to live.” Odysseus explained. He told Eurylochus about the sirens and the lair of Scylla, and they all set off from the underworld to take the more dangerous route.

Odysseus went to go under the deck to check on Onna and Polites, and was surprised to see her tucked into a corner, her hands over her ears, and her knees pressed up against her. Polites tried comforting her, hands on her shoulders as the small winion cuddled the side of her face, but it did nothing for her. “I can still hear them…” He whispered “All of their screaming…” She said. Polites shot Odysseus a look, that wanted him to come and try to comfort her. “Onna? Are you OK?” Odysseus asked “No…” she simply whimpered. “Tiresias told us what will happen ahead.” He said “So we're setting off again.” “Good. The sooner we get out of here the better.” Onna said in a heartbroken tone, pressing her ears down.

Odysseus went back up to the deck and commanded his men to begin rowing back out of the underworld, but at the same time, the king was still worried. The part of the future that worried him the most wasn't the various monsters that were out for blood, nor the God of tides wrath waiting for them to make a mistake. No…what worried him was what was going to happen in Ithaca, with his family…

With his Penelope.

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Back in Ithaca, Things weren't going well with the royal family. It was now another year and Odysseus still hadn't returned. It had been too long and now she needs to find another person to take his place. Something she wasn't particularly happy about. And neither was Telemachus. “You can't remarry! Father is still out there!” He protested. “I know, but I have no choice my son…” She said sadly “I must remarry soon, or the people will surely riot. A kingdom needs a queen.” She told him “But I'm the prince! And I can surely rule until father returns!” Telemachus argued “You are only 15 Telemachus. You still have much to learn about ruling a kingdom.” She states. Telemachus sags. The older he got, the more pressure he had put on him. Specifically since he was the son to one of the most cunning and strongest kings Greece had ever seen, and he had YET to prove that…

He felt his mother gently raise his head “Oh Telemachus, You know that if I had it my way, We'd never stop waiting for Odysseus to return, but time stops for no one.” She said, sadness in her voice. “But you're the queen! And you know how to rule Ithaca! What will another man know about ruling Ithaca the way father did?” Telemachus asked. “They won't.” Penelope told him, her eyes looking down. “There will be suitors arriving in a few months. And in that time, I will have to choose a new husband.” She said. Telemachus tensed. These men would all be trying to take what was rightfully his father's. His throne, his kingdom…and his mom. He shivered at the thought, before he stormed out of the palace, and walked in the garden, Argos perking up when he saw him and trotting by his side. He saw how upset Telemachus was, and gave a small whine.

The prince have him a small pat on his head. “I'm fine…” he told him. Argos however, wasn't convinced, as he pulled his chiton, and pulling him, ready to play with him. Telemachus gave a small smile. At least Argos still had faith. Grabbing a nearby stick, he threw it in a random direction…only to freeze and cringe when he heard a sudden “OW!”. He knew exactly who that was… “Junsuina? Are you OK?” He asked, trying to hide the fact that he was the one who initially threw the stick in the first place. “Oh…Hello Telemachus…” Junsuina started “I can see that your aim is getting better…” She said, hand rubbing the spot on her head where she was hit. Telemachus cringed. How did she figure it out so quickly?! “Heh heh…Yeah…It is…” He said, looking away in embarrassment. “Could have been worse…could have been a rock.” She said.

The two of them awkwardly laughed and looked away, before Argos jumped up on Junsuina, holding his prize in his mouth and wagging his tail. Junsuina kneeled down and gave the dog a pet on the hear “Oh who's a good boy Argos!” She cooed “Who's the bravest dog in the world!” She said. She then took the stick and threw it again, letting Argos chase after it. The dog then ran after it, barking happily as he did. Junsuina smiled “Such a good boy.” She said. “Yeah…he is…” Telemachus said, some of his anger and frustration melting away. “Hey Telemachus, How's your mother doing?” Junsuina asked. Aaaaaaand the frustration came back to him as he looked away. “Not very good. Mother is being forced to remarry.” He said bitterly, looking to the ground. “But…she's doing a good job ruling alone.” Junsuina said “And Odysseus isn't back yet.” She said “Well she says that the people are in a state of unrest.” He said “That a kingdom needs a king.” He said. “But you're the PRINCE. You're the next in line for the throne.” Junsuina reminded

“I told her that, but…I'm not of age yet.” Telemachus said sadly. “It's not fair though!” Junsuina said “They're still out there!” She said strongly “Try telling that to an entire kingdom who hasn't seen its King in over 15 years…” he muttered, looking away. Junsuina shook her head “No. They're still coming back.” She insisted “It won't change anything.” Telemachus said “There are suitors coming to the palace soon, and mother has to choose one of them as the replacement.” he said, sounding just as bitter as his mom when she told him the news. “But she doesn't have to choose right away right?” Junsuina asked. “No. She can make the decision any time she wants.” Telemachus informed “Then she'll think of something.” Junsuina said “Besides. How bad can it be? How may people want to be the king of Ithaca?” She asked

Telemachus considered her words. She did make a good point. It was probably just one or two men trying to win Penelope's hand. Nothing that she couldn't handle.

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The boat made its way into the ocean once more. When they all made it out of the Underworld, Onna finally came out from under the deck, but her spirit was still low. And who could blame her? She literally just saw everyone from her old village, all screaming and crying as they floated down the river of souls. She had been quiet, not speaking a single word and gazing out at the sea with longing. It was starting to get hard…dealing with all of this madness happening around them. Why did Poseidon have to come after her? Why couldn't he have gone after another returning fleet instead? She could think of MILLIONS of others that could have attracted his rage…but no. He had to come after her because of pure bad luck. She just hoped that whatever happened next, didn't come at the cost of making another God or powerful monster mad.

“How are you doing Onna?” Polites asked, joining her side at the deck “I'm fine…” she said quietly, trying to keep her mind off of what happened in the underworld. “Don't worry. We'll be back home soon! Now that we know which way to go to get back to Ithaca without making Poseidon find us.” Polites comforted. “It doesn't change anything…” Onna said, “I still miss them…お父さんとお母さん…” She said, tears forming in her eyes again. She then shook her head ‘C'mon. Warriors don't cry. You are a warrior, you were in war. You'll be OK.’ She thought. “But that can wait. Right now we have to survive.” She said, a neutral look on her face. Polites frowned, Onna was bottling her feelings and she knew it, but considering her position, she felt she didn't need to show weakness.

“Polites!” Odysseus called out. The king walked over to him, and handed him something yellow and slick “Help me hand this out to the crew” he said. “Beeswax?” Polites asked “What do we need this for?” He asked “We're headed towards Siren Territory.” Odysseus said. “We need to make sure that they can't try to make us jump off to our demise.” He said. Onna's eyebrow raised “Sirens?” She asked “Yes. Sea creatures that uses their voices and songs to try and make you jump into the water so they can eat you.” Odysseus told her. “But…don't they primarily go after men?” Polites asked. “Yes, since men are easier to manipulate.” Odysseus said “But then again, they do live in the sea, and anything that lives under water would most likely be after you.” He said. “So how do we get past them?” Onna asked “That's what the beeswax is for. We're going to block out the song.” Odysseus said.

Onna was skeptical of this plan, just how much of the siren song would be blocked off from being heard? Would it even be enough to keep them going? “Can't we just go around them?” She asked “No. They know more about the sea than we do. Which is why, if we get them to believe that we're falling for it, they'll tell us what we need to know.” He said. Polites gave Onna a small wad of the beeswax, and she gazed at it. She REALLY hoped that this would work, and that nothing bad would happen again. She plugged the clumps into her ears, which nearly blocked out all sounds. She no longer could hear the crashing of waves, nor the sounds of the others talking on the ship. She gazed back out at the sea, eyes pointed down at the water, when she saw something underneath the sea. It almost looked like a large fish.

She looked over and saw Odysseus, his arms chained to the mast of the boat. Onna wanted to see just what he was doing now, when she could hear something hissing from below the ship. Looking overboard, her eyes nearly popped out of their skull when she saw her sister, smiling happily at her “Onna! Onna!” She called “Jun! What are you doing down there?” She asked “Just playing in the water!” She said “C'mon and jump in! It'll be like back home!” Junsuina called. “But what are you doing down there?” Onna asked “You should be back in Ithaca with the queen and prince.” She said. “Oh just enjoying a moment to myself…” Junsuina replied “But it's no fun without you down here, C'mon!” She coaxed. “But Poseidon is still after us…after me…” Onna told her. “Oh don't worry! He won't come this way!” Junsuina soothed.

Now Onna was getting suspicious. “Hmm…alright, I jump in, but I want to know if you still remember what Mother and Father used to call you. The nickname they would always give you when they were still here.” She said. “That's easy! They always called me their little monkey! Because I loved bananas!” Junsuina said. Onna didn't move from her spot on the boat. She knew a lot of things about Junsuina. Her favorite lullaby from mother, her least favorite dress, and her favorite games. But most importantly, she knew her sister's favorite foods.

And Bananas were NOT on that list.

Now the image of Junsuina flickered, her youthful visual giving away to some scales and her small fingers now growing claws. The Yutaka she wore slowly dripping away and her eyes glowing a fearsome yellow. This was no person she was talking too. This was exactly what the beeswax was for.

She was talking to a siren.

Chapter Text

Onna had her blade ready just in case this siren tried to make a move, but it appeared that it wasn't the only one trying to make a move on the crew, as Odysseus, though his arms were still chained to the mast, was having a lovely conversation with a siren that looked eerily like Penelope. She looked back at the siren that she was talking to. It's eyes blinking back to Junsuina's green eyes “C'mon sis!” She cheered “Come into the water! It's great!” She said, playfully splashing Onna with water. The latter wiped the water away from her face. “Uh…Let me just go get some of your favorite toys really quickly.” She said, trying to distance herself away from the faker that wore Junsuina's face.

“Oh come on! We don't need those!” The siren protested. But Onna was already off. For she was grabbing a fishing net instead. “Stupid Sea. Stupid Sirens. Taking the face of my sister and thinking they can get away with it!” She muttered. She then threw the net overboard, and over the siren. But the creature just smiled at the attempt, and began pulling on the net, feeling the strength of numerous other sirens below. Onna held fast, she wasn't about to become fish food to them, however, at the same time, some of the beeswax in her ears became loose, and some even fell out, allowing her to fully hear some of the sirens. And she could hear them all singing for her to jump in the water, so they could deliver her to Poseidon.

“Polites! Come and give me a hand!” She called, as she could feel the strength of just more than one of those sirens now pulling at the net. “Come On Onna…” They sang, their voices stronger, and at the same time, Onna's head felt light, her fight slowly fading, and letting herself be pulled to the edge of the boat. “ONNA HANG ON!” Polites yelled, as he grabbed the other part of the net, adding the strength needed to keep the sirens at bay. “Onna…” the sirens sang, and Onna slowly was letting go of the net, and walking to the edge of the deck. “ONNA NO!” Polites cried, a arm around her waist “EURYLOCHUS HELP!” He yelled, his hand still on the net. Eurylochus ran to Polites aid, grabbing the net, and getting the sirens up on the deck. The sirens all hissed at Eurylochus, who was now holding his sword, while Polites took Onna under the deck so she would snap out of it.

“Is that all of them?” Odysseus asked, as he pulled his own catch onto the deck. “That should be all of them.” Eurylochus said, glaring down at the sirens. They all glared at the sirens, and the sirens glared back. “Nice try. Trying to fool me and my men. Trying to make us all jump to our demises.” Odysseus spat. “You really think I'm stupid enough to believe that you're my wife? My wife knows I can swim, and that we do now have a daughter.” He said, circling the sirens. “And that there are packs of you hiding, trying to eat me and my men…” He said “But I will thank you…” Odysseus said in a mocking tone “Because now, you told us exactly how to get past Poseidon.” He said.

The sirens all glared at him with hatred “You cannot escape Poseidon, for as long as the girl is on the ship, she will bring upon your demise.” They all sang. Odysseus narrowed his eyes, but the other men all looked terrified at the notion. “That's not true! She being on the boat isn't going to kill us all!” Polites argued. “Lord Poseidon will find her. Regardless of where you go. Unless you throw her off the boat, you are all doomed.” The sirens sang, smiles on their sharp teeth. Odysseus glared at them in anger. “ENOUGH!” He commanded “MEN! CUT OFF THEIR TAILS! LET THEM DROWN!” both men and siren looked at him with horror, but it didn't last long, as the men began hacking away at the sirens tails

The high pitched wails of the sirens cried in pain as their bodies were cut in half. Blood spilling from under them as they were dragged back to the water. The sea turning red with siren blood as the sirens got deeper and deeper into the water. Their voices warped by their voices being dragged underwater. When they finally subsided, everyone took the beeswax out of their ears. Odysseus sighed after the massacre was over…when he noticed someone was missing. “Where's Onna?” He asked, worry in his eyes “She's under the deck. The sirens song got to her, but she did get the net down onto them just before she fell to them.” Polites said. Odysseus nods as he goes under the deck. He sees Onna, her eyes in a dazed state as her head was nodding, as if she was trying to stay awake.

“Don't worry Jun…we'll be home soon…” She murmured “I'll be back soon…” she uttered. “空が海を割ったとき、私が心からあなたを愛していることを知っておいてください どんなに強...” she muttered. “Polites?” Odysseus asked. Polites came down to see just what happened to her. “How long will she be like this?” He asked “At least for a few hours…” Polites admitted. Odysseus sighed. But then again, it could be worse. She truly could have fallen into the water, been another victim to their calls, or even taken back to Poseidon…Unfortunately, they now had to venture to one of the most dangerous parts of the entire ocean…the one place in this world where Poseidon would never venture…

The Lair of Scylla…

Chapter Text

Onna shook the last of the siren song out of her head. Her vision was still blurred, but she could at least tell that she was under the deck. Those last few moments however were a blur, what happened? What did the crew do to those sirens? Rejoining the others on deck, when she saw that they were headed towards a cave in the distance. “Odysseus?” She asked.. “What happened? Are we going back?” Her eyes gazed ahead at the cave, getting closer with every stroke of the oars “Why are we going towards that cave?” Odysseus turned to her, fear in his eyes “We have to go through the lair of Scylla to avoid Poseidon.” He said. Onna didn't recognize the name, but whatever was in there, caused Odysseus to show something she didn't see in a long time: Fear. “Scylla?” She asked. Odysseus gave a simple nod.

“What's a Scylla?” Onna asked. “Not what. Who.” Odysseus corrected “Scylla is a giant, monstrous sea beast. And she lives in that cave.” He said. Onna felt like slamming her head to the side of the mast “Then why are we going TOWARDS it?!” She asked “It's the only place in the ocean where Poseidon won't go. We have to sail through if we want any chance of making it back, without him attacking again.” He explained. “But…How do we get past Scylla?” Onna asked. Odysseus gave a unsure look at the crew, before he turned his attention towards Onna and whispered to her “There is only one way we can escape Scylla. We must sacrifice 6 of the men.” Onna's eyes widened in horror. She may not have liked the other men, or the fact that they all treated her like a walking curse half of the time, but to willingly sacrifice the same men who desperately just wanted to get home? “No…No…there has to be another way!” She whispered back.

Odysseus shook his head. “This is the only way…” He whispered. Onna however shook her head, there HAD to be another way. She ended up gripping her sword so hard that she accidentally drew blood. She hissed in pain, looking down at her small wound, the blood coming out of her hand. She then had a thought in mind “Can Scylla be blinded?” She asked. “What?” Odysseus asked “You said Scylla had 6 head. Can Scylla be blinded?” Onna asked. Odysseus didn't answer immediately. He didn't have an answer to that question. Nobody had actually TRIED to blind Scylla…but then again, nobody was crazy enough to try and blind Scylla, because she was SCYLLA. Giant. Monstrous. Bloodthirsty. Scylla. “I'm…Not entirely sure.” He admitted. Onna's eyes narrowed “Well then. Time to find out.” She said, hand on her blade. Odysseus held her shoulder “Onna, We don't know if you really can blind Scylla. And if you do, we don't know if it'll be long enough for us to get out of the cave fast enough.” He said. “We have to try…” Onna pleads.

The mouth of the cave began to get closer to them, as Onna's hand gripped her blade a little tighter. The men began to row just a little slower, as they too feared just what might be in this cave Odysseus stood at the front of the boat, eyes gazing ahead. Eurylochus then joined Odysseus's side as they got closer. However, he looked down, and he didn't say anything. “You're quiet today.” Odysseus joked, trying to lighten the mood, but Eurylochus kept his head down, guilt in his eyes. “Captain…there's something I need to tell you.” He said. Odysseus raised an eyebrow at him. What could he possibly want to tell him while they were on their way to Scylla? “What is it?” He asked. Eurylochus looked away, when he spoke in a guilt riddled voice.

“I'm…I'm Sorry…I opened the Wind bag when you were asleep…”

Chapter Text

Odysseus felt his entire body freeze in anger. He hoped that Eurylochus was playing some kind of cruel joke on him, but then it made sense why Onna attacked him when the storm swept them away. Why she screamed in anger at him when they were able to close the bag. He didn't speak for a few moments, and who could blame him? His second in command just admitted to being the reason they were swept away when they were so close to Ithaca. Eurylochus tensed in fear at Odysseus's silence. Maybe he should have admitted this when they were OUTSIDE of the cave. “Captain?” He asked slowly, when Odysseus commanded him, in a very low voice “Give Onna a torch, and then get everyone under the deck.” not wanting to make Odysseus any more mad at him, he got the remaining crew underneath the deck, before lighting a torch for Onna, her hand firmly on her sword.

That's when the entire boat rocked. From something UNDERNEATH them. A dark shadow darts underneath the water and rocks the boat around. The rowing slows more as everyone who's still above the deck tries to see just what it was. Most of the men who were rowing now trembled in fear and the water picked up in speed, Eurylochus then saw something in the water “Captain. Something Approaches.” He said, as Onna brought the light over to see what he saw. In the water, there was…a woman? A pale woman with hair as dark as night, that stared at them with vacant eyes. Her head tilted at them, as she gave a low and somewhat guttural

“Hello…”

The water under them began to rumble, as “she” began to stretch and rise, and 6 monstrous dog like heads appeared attached to the “body”. They all surrounded the ship, with the intent of devouring everyone on board. “Please let this work…” Onna muttered as she gripped her sword, her torch held high. She nods at Odysseus, who commands as loud as he can.

“ROW FOR YOUR LIFE!!!!”

The men all rowed with everything they had as one of Scylla's heads shot down towards Onna. She then threw the torch at one of the eyes, before she leaped onto its head, and stabbed out the other eye. The head roared in pain as she jumped up to another head that dove down at her, teeth shining. Onna stabbed out another eye as she straddled the head to stab out the second one. Those on the boat rowed faster as the water began to make them move faster towards the exit of the cave, but there were still 4 more heads determined to devour them all. Onna had just now jumped to the 3rd head, sword ready to stab, as a 4th head lunged towards where she was straddling. She narrowed her eyes just in time, and let the 4th head bite down on the neck of the 3rd, making it roar angrily. Onna then destroyed the eyes in both heads.

Now Scylla was getting angry. Her own teeth bared, she sent her last two heads after Onna, and at the same time lunged towards her. Onna meanwhile, needed to get back to the ship, as they were almost to the exit. But she was running out of heads to jab out, and Scylla now seemed intent on destroying her fully. As another head charger towards her, Onna threw her sword into the 5th heads eye, using it to hang on until the 6th head would appear underneath her. She then let go, and let the head come to her, grabbing its ear, and the her sword, before stabbing out another eye and stabbing out the other head's eye. The last head roared at her as it charged down. Onna braced herself, and prepared to get rid of the last eye, when she suddenly heard a sickening

CRUNCH!

Onna cried out in pain. Scylla's teeth sunk into her shoulder, as a large blot of blood turned her white chiton red. She was lucky to even have stabbed out the last eye before it bit down The head gave a roar as it let Onna go, she just barely landed back on the boat as they finally escaped. “ONNA!” Odysseus yelled “GET POLITES NOW!” He commanded. Eurylochus quickly ran under the deck and grabbed Polites, both of them gasping in terror at the damage. “It's going to be OK Onna. You're going to be OK.” Polites soothed. “Ody! Give me a piece if your cape!” He said. Odysseus cut a piece of the fabric, and gave it to Polites, who wrapped it around the wound as best as he could. Onna gave pained groans at what he did. She was in excruciating pain, but on the bright side…they made it out. “We have to get to solid land. I can't treat the wounds property on the boat.” Polites said as he tried putting pressure on Onna's wounds.

“Captain. There's an island up ahead. We can stop there so Polites can patch Onna up.” Eurylochus said. While Odysseus was still mad at him, patching Onna up was more important. So with a sigh, he commanded the men to row to the island.

“Full Speed Ahead…”

Chapter Text

The boat finally reached the island, and Polites immediately began bandaging Onna's wounds. She was breathing heavily, as the wound was very deep. All the while she could hear Odysseus yelling at Eurylochus for opening the wind bag from before. ‘At least he finally told hi….’ She thought, feeling more pain as Polites was helping her “Sorry Onna…this might sting a little bit, but it will help.” He said. “Ok…” She breathed out as best as she could. She had lost a lot of blood while they had rowed to the island. Her vision began to get clouded as well. She wasn't doing too hot. “Just stay strong…” she told her herself, but her state wasn't the greatest right now. “Hang on Onna. I'm going to grab some more bandages.” Polites told her. Onna only gave a pained nod as he went back onto the boat. That's when she heard Odysseus and Eurylochus arguing about something.

“...This is the island of the Sun God! We can't kill the cattle!” She heard Odysseus yell “We have to eat something! We're starving and we ate through everything Circe gave us.” She heard Eurylochus yell back “I know. We can look for food somewhere else! But these are Helios's sacred cattle! We CANNOT kill them.” Odysseus argued. “Ody. Your judgement has kept us alive for this long, but if we don't eat something soon, we'll all die of starvation.” Eurylochus said. “We have to hold off. These cattle are sacred. Tiresias said if we kill even one of them, we'll all be doomed.” Odysseus argued. Eurylochus's eyes grew hard as he reached for the handle of his sword. Odysseus did the same. Both of them now aimed their blades at each other “Eurylochus. Don't do this.” Odysseus warned “I could tell you the same thing…” Eurylochus warned back. Both them narrowed their eyes before they began clashing their blades at each other, eyes ablaze with anger.

“EURYLOCHUS! STAND DOWN NOW!” Odysseus roared, the king in him showing “I can't do that. Not now. Not while we're all starving.” Eurylochus said in a low tone. The two of them began to duel, all the while, they began to get closer to the cattle. Eurylochus's eyes narrowed at the cattle, his intentions clear. Odysseus blocked his way and tried to force him away from the cows, but his own sword wasn't much of a match for Eurylochus's much larger and much heavier sword. In seconds, he knocked Odysseus's blade away from him. And charged towards the cows. “NO!” Odysseus yells, and in Onna's muddled head, something snapped her mind back into place. Against the pain she felt in her shoulder, she grabbed her sword and charged towards Eurylochus, knocking him down.

She then pointed her sword at him, her eyes narrowed “Eurylochus. You traitor how could you?!” She growled. “Onna! Stand down now!” Eurylochus commanded. But Onna stood her ground. “I only answer to one person. And you are NOT him. You backstabbing, double-crossing. Wind bag opening TRAITOR.” She said, blade still aimed at him. “I should have just told Odysseus right off the bat that you opened that bag. Maybe he could have left you behind.” She muttered, eyes narrowed. Now Eurylochus was getting mad. “Don't act like you're in the right. Your very presence is what forced us to take the longer route. What made Poseidon come after us.” He stated “We should have tossed you overboard when we had the chance.” “I should have let that Cyclops club you down.” Onna shot back. The two of them glared at each other with burning hatred. “Eurylochus. Don't do this. If what Odysseus says is true, we can't kill the cows.” She said

“You don't understand.” Eurylochus spat “You're a Woman. You don't need to put in the work to survive. You just wink and smile, and you have anyone do anything for you.” He said. “How dare you.” Onna said in rage, charging towards him again, and knocked him down, sword aimed at his neck “You don't know what I had to go through. What I lost. Everything that I suffered through! You don't know ANYTHING ABOUT ME!” She screamed, and she lowered the sword closer to his neck. “I made a vow to Odysseus. That I would protect him with my life. And I intend to keep that vow alive. Even from you.” She said in a low voice. She was about to dig the sword down into his neck, when the pain returned to her shoulder, the wound from earlier reopened. She hissed in pain, and in this small act of weakness, her grip on her sword weakened, allowing Eurylochus to throw her off, and take her blade.

“Men.” He called, “Take Onna back to the beach.” He said, using Onna's injury to keep her away from him. Perimedes and Elpenor grabbed her arms and legs and carried her away “GET OFF ME!” Onna screamed, trying to fight against them “Onna! You can't be moving!” Polites yelled from back at the ship. But Onna's main concern was that Eurylochus had her sword, and was now making his way to the cattle. “NO!! LET ME GO!! DON'T LET HIM DO THIS!!” She screamed, trying to wriggle free. She could only watch in horror as Eurylochus raised her sword, and with one swift motion, slashed the cow's neck. Then, to his, and everyone's horror, the cow bled gold…”You've doomed us…YOU'VE DOOMED US ALL EURYLOCHUS!” Odysseus yelled in fear. The island itself seemed to rumble, and the winds grew harsher.

“Captain?” Eurylochus had the audacity to ask, dropping Onna's sword in the process. Odysseus looked at his men “WE NEED TO GET OUT OF HERE NOW!” he commanded. Everyone then scrambled to the boat. Perimedes and Elpenor finally dropped Onna, through it was rough for her, she held her shoulder in pain. However, her mind remembered that her sword was still on the island. With whatever remaining strength she had left, she ran to get her sword back, but she could somewhat hear Odysseus yelling at Eurylochus about who might be sent now that the cow was slaughtered, as well as Polites yelling for Onna to come back “My sword…I need my sword…” She panted, as she waded through the water, her blood mixing with the sea around her “ONNA! LEAVE IT!” Odysseus yelled from the ship, but she didn't heed her words

Her strength was slowly fading and her vision was clouding around her, but she couldn't leave her sword behind. She needed it. Even as the wounds caused her pain, even as the clouds gathered around her, and even as the boat left her. Her breath began to get slower as she was reduced to crawling to reach the blade. Her vision began to blur as her sword, in her vision, was now just a shiny blur. “Almost…there…” she groaned, hand reaching out to almost grabbing the hilt. When she saw something staring down at her. Electric yellow eyes stared her down as the sound of thunder filled her ears, and lightning cracked around her.

“Well well…What do we have here."

Chapter Text

Odysseus's breath was quick as storm clouds surrounded the entire ship, lighting flashing in them. There was only God who made thunder that great, that had a presence that demanded you bowed, unless you wanted to become ashes. But he was even more worried considering that those same clouds were circling the island they just left…the same island that they abandoned Onna on. They were doomed either way. As Eurylochus was the one who killed the cow. “What do we do now?!” Polites asked as they kept going “Onna is still on that island!” He said “We have to leave her.” Eurylochus said “No. Enough Eurylochus.” Odysseus snapped, having had enough of him. “Once the storm passes, we go back to get Onna from the-” He was cut off as the lightning came back and one bolt struck down at the ship.

“Tremble in fear Mortals. For it is I. The king of the Gods.” Came the voice of the thunder bringer. In the sky, two electric yellow eyes stared down at the ship, as a face formed in the clouds, sinisterly smiling down at the ship. Everyone on the boat tensed with fear. Zeus. ZEUS. THE GOD KING WAS HERE. Now they truly WERE doomed. The clouds then revealed the king of the heavens above them, smirking at their fear. “You have done a great act of crime against the gods…and someone has to pay for it.” He boomed. In seconds, everyone was on their knees and bowed to Zeus, trying to find some way, ANY way to avoid being struck down. “Well well…little king…” Zeus boomed down at Odysseus, his smile growing. “It would seem that misfortune follows you at every corner.” He taunted. Odysseus cringed. But it would seem he's right. Misfortune DOES seem to follow them at every bend.

“And it would seem, along with hunger being too great for any of you to bear, you tried to pin the blame on the one woman on your ship.” He said, dangling Onna by her arm. He then roughly tossed her back onto the ship, as Polites and Perimedes hastily caught her before she hit the deck. Zeus then leaned down to Odysseus, the king practically feeling the electricity that crackled around him. “Now. Normally, I would just zap you all, but since you tried to get out of it by abandoning your woman, I don't think should have that choice anymore.” He said. “I'll let her make the final choice instead.” He boomed in a smug, almost taunting tone. Odysseus's eyes widened in horror, as Onna's eyes fought to stay open “Ch-Choice?” She asked. “Someone has to pay for the slaughter of Helios Cows…and since you're the one they left behind, you have the final say…” Zeus told her.

Onna could feel herself getting even more and more lightheaded. Her strength fading, but she heard Zeus ask “Who shall pay?...You…Or your “brothers in arms” He asked, the last part almost sounding mocking. Onna could practically feel the eyes on her. She wanted to go home, she wanted to get back to Junsuina, more than anything in the world…but she looked back at the other men. All of them. Who had constantly whispered behind her back who had accused her of sleeping with Odysseus, who have made her life hell for the last few years…all of them who just wanted to get home. They had suffered so long, and had gone through so much. And Odysseus? She heard just how long he longed for Penelope, and to see his son Telemachus. He longed to see them, just as much as she longed to see Junsuina again. And now, there was the chance that they may never see their loved ones again. Every fiber in her body was telling her to just choose them, let them die, and she could return to Jun…but she swore a vow to Odysseus…

“ごめんねジュン…” She whispered before she looked up at Zeus “Take me.” She said to him. “Let me pay for the crime, for it was my sword that struck the cow down.” She said. “Just spare Odysseus and his men…let them get back safely.” She sighed. Zeus gave a surprised look, but he grinned. “Very well.” He boomed, and snapped his fingers as a bolt of lightning emanated from his fingers. Onna tensed up at the lightning, but she knew that this was her decision. “Onna?” She hears Odysseus ask. She turned to see him, Polites, Eurylochus and the rest of the crew looking at her with shock. “Tell Junsuina that she was a wonderful sister…” she said softly, a tear leaking from her eye. She looked up to see Zeus, a sadistic smile on her face as the bolt of lightning was aimed directly towards her, and shot towards her with a sickening crackle.

And it all went dark.

Chapter Text

Meanwhile, Back on Ithaca, it had been 17 years. 17. Very. Long. Years. The now adult Telemachus was currently taking a walk through the palace…at least the areas that weren't overrun by suitors that liked making his life a living hell every chance they got. Argos was also by his side, the aging dog always was close, on account that he DID look like his father. He remembered that day, that hopeful day that his father was going to come home…only to be swept away by an unexpected storm. Only 11 of the 12 boats came back that day, he searched every last one of them, but couldn't find his father on any of them…Now he and his mother were stuck dealing with these parasites that infested their home. Argos gave a bark up at his master, a new stick in his mouth. Telemachus gave a smile to the dog, at least he still made him smile in these dire circumstances.

“You're the only dog here that I'll actually appreciate.” He told him, as he let Argos on the hear. He took a small moment out of his day to check up on his mother, who sat in her room, weaving. “Mother? Are you alright?” He asked. Penelope turned to her son with a sad smile “Yes my child, I'm fine.” She said “I just need to keep weaving the funeral shroud…so that I may choose another.” She said, though she did give him a small wink as she did. Only she and Telemachus knew what was truly going on. She'd undo the work of that shroud every night, and she would keep doing that until those men gave up, or until Odysseus returned back from the sea…both of which sounded completely impossible, but she wouldn't give up just yet. No matter how long it was. “I should be finished soon…” She said, just in case anyone tries to overhear their conversation. “Why don't you go see Junsuina…you seem down.” She said. Telemachus looked away, a small blush appearing on his face.

Ever since that one incident in the garden with the rose bushes, now everyone in the palace think that he and Junsuina are destined to be the next Odysseus and Penelope. Telemachus tries to protest against this, but everyone tells him just how close they've been. Waiting for Odysseus and Onna to return together. And sure, he thought that Junsuina was pretty. And he liked her humor. And she was usually the one that picked him up when he was feeling down…But that didn't mean that they were together! Penelope laughed at her son's reaction. “Go on, go and see her. Just be careful.” She said, as they heard the loud shouting of drunken pigs in their halls Telemachus nods. At least he knew where Junsuina currently was right now. Making his way outside, he quietly slipped away from the palace grounds, and snuck into the nearby forest, following the sword marks that slowly healed over time, until he found a small stone house near a small stream. He smiled as he and Argos walked to the door, and as it opened, it revealed the now 19 year old Junsuina

“Hello Your highness!” she said, giving a bow. The suitors situation wasn't very good for her either, as the 108 very drunk men made her uncomfortable, and Antinous was the worst of them as he kept calling her “The Forigen Beauty.” It had gotten so bad that she had to stay in the small Hut that her sister was supposed to be living in, until they left…but something told her that wasn't going to happen. Telemachus smiled however, as they had grown close in the many years that their family members had been away. They found comfort in themselves, as they felt stuck in the shadows that they were left to fill. Telemachus having to fill his father's shoes, and Junsuina trying to become a Warrior like her sister…both of which wasn't happening.

“Hi Junsuina. You don't need to call me your highness. We've known each other when we were kids.” He said. “I know, but you are still the prince, and well…the only person I know who's male and does NOT try to get me in bed with them.” Junsuina said, her smile turning sad. Telemachus knew just what she was talking about “Hey, we're going to get through this.” He said. “But why can't you just kick them out? You're the PRINCE!” She asked. “You know why.” Telemachus said “I know, I know, the laws of Xenia, you can't kick those pigs out.” She said tiredly. Argos came to greet her, immediately lifting her spirits. “Oh hello Argos! Who's a good boy!” She said, giving his back a scratch.

“He missed you.” Telemachus said as the two of them walked to the small cottage “Oh he knows, he knows I give him extra treats when you come over.” Junsuina said as they went inside. Inside the house, held a sweeping Cassandra, and a now 7 Saisei, who was playing with a wooden sword. The two of them had been living in the house, ever since Junsuina and Telemachus had found them rowing from sea, and Cassandra had said she was a friend of her sister. She had told the two of them how Onna had helped them escape the sacking of Troy, and how she had promised the two of them a new life. Junsuina, who's heart ALSO ached for her sister, had let them in without hesitation and let them stay in her home. “Good Morning your highness.” Cassandra said giving him a bow “Tel-Tel!” Saisei cheered as he hugged his legs.

Telemachus gave a laugh as he ruffled the kid's hair “It's good to see you Saisei.” He said “Are you gonna play swords with me?” The child asked “Jun-Jun is too fast.” He whined. “Tattletale.” Junsuina said playfully. “Hmm. I'm not sure…” Telemachus started “Do you think you can go up against the prince of Ithaca himself?” he asked. “Yeah! I can take you!” Saisei said. “Then let's go!” Telemachus said, grabbing his own wooden sword and playing with the boy. Cassandra and Junsuina watched them, before Junsuina turned to Cassandra “So…have you seen anything yet?...” she asked. Cassandra had told her that she was a seer, much like she did with Onna, but now Junsuina wanted to know if she saw her sister ever returning to her. But the visions began to sound more outlandish. From witches, to sirens, to the underworld itself. But nothing about Onna returning yet

“I had one last night. But this one might just be the strangest one of them all.” Cassandra tells her “Can't be stranger than Onna being the wife of a Cyclops.” Junsuina snarked. “Well…” Cassandra started, as she stared the girl dead in the eyes

“Your sister is among the gods now.”

Chapter Text

Onna braced herself for the pain of the lightning bolt, but she didn't feel anything. Not the smell of skin burning, not the feeling of electricity overloading her body. When she opened her eyes, she found herself in what could only be described as 'a heavenly infirmary.' Bandages were wrapped around her body, despite the aching, but at the same time, she felt…different. As if every sense in her body had been heightened to the max. “Oh good! You're finally awake.” Came a familiar voice. She turned and spotted the glowing form of Apollo floating to her. “Apollo?” She asked, head still foggy “Easy now. You may need to stay down for a little while.” He said.

“Wha-What happened? Where are we right now?” She asked. “You're in the infirmary.” Apollo stated “I don't remember Infirmaries looking like they were carved from gold.” She said. “That's because we're in my personal infirmary on Mount Olympus.” He said. That statement snapped Onna's mind into place. “Mount Olympus?” She asked “Yes. Where me and the other gods and goddesses live.” Apollo states. “B-But what about Odysseus and the rest of the crew?” She asked “Should you really be concerned about the people who LET Zeus take you?” He asked. “No. No no no!” Onna gasped as she began getting out of bed. “Hey wait! You have to let it heal!” Apollo protested, but she ran away from him before he could stop her. She ran out of the Infirmary, and was met with the splendor that was Mount Olympus. It was a brilliant and beautiful world that sparkled of gold, magic pouring out of every corner, as the galaxies twinkled above them.

However, That wasn't Onna's biggest concern. Right now, her biggest concern was getting OUT of there and finding a way back to Junsuina. “Come back here!” Apollo shouts as Onna ran down a random road. She bolted past clouds sculptures and pillars of gold, past Nymphs and naiads that lounged above in the clouds. She ran past the Gods and Goddesses that watched as she ran away, Apollo chasing after her. “Is this another one of your lovers Apollo?” Ares asked. “No. It's a mortal that Father wanted up here." The god of music replied “Onna! Come back right now!” Apollo yelled, still chasing after her. The name was familiar to Ares, as he knew Onna from her battles in Troy, him watching the slaughters she had done with pride. So hearing that she was running AWAY caught his attention.

Onna meanwhile kept running, and running, the Olympians following to where she was going, until they, and Onna found a hole in the clouds, showing a random part of the ocean. “I'M COMING JUN!!” She yelled as she dove into the hole, feeling the wind as she fell down. That is until gravity reversed itself, and she found herself floating back upwards towards Olympic “NO! NO NO NO NO!!!” She screamed as she tried to fall further, but it was no use as the Artemis and Ares ended up restraining her “LET ME GO!!” She yelled, desperation in her voice as she struggled in their hold. “Onna! You need to rest!” Apollo told her

“NO!! I CAN'T BE HERE! I HAVE TO GET BACK TO JUN!!” She yelled still struggling. “THIS is the warrior that slaughtered most of Troy?” Hephaestus asked, an eyebrow raised. “She reminds me more of that princess that you cursed, Cassandra.” He told Apollo. “Well I can't control the impulses of father, but if said impulse refuses to rest so that their injuries will heal, then that isn't my fault.” Apollo snarked. Aphrodite also studied Onna, and she had to admit, the blessing that she and Apollo gave her did seem to make her look more feminine now. But Onna didn't stop, she kept struggling in their grasps. “I didn't think I would have to do this, but if you're ever going to get your wounds to heal, you have to rest.” Apollo chastised, his hands glowing a faint gold.

The fight in Onna slowly began to fade as her vision blurred “No…I gotta get back…” She whimpered “Have to…Jun…” She whispered, before she blacked out once more.

Chapter Text

Odysseus's eye twitched as he sat on the beach. After Onna seemingly got blasted away by that lightning bolt, Zeus had decided that Onna's choice wasn't punishment enough. So summoning his power, he had sent a storm, and sent them off course, AGAIN. This time to a seemingly perfect island that sat in the middle of the sea. “Hopefully there's nothing here. No crazed witches. No cyclopses. Nothing that could possibly attack us or hurt us, or stop us from getting back again…” Polites said, trying to stay optimistic. But the wind then grew strong, and threw every last man off the boat, and onto the island.Them, before they could even TRY to get back onto the ship, a large lightning bolt struck the boat, reducing it to ashes. This forced all of them to swim to the island, to at least think of a new plan. When they all reached the shore, Odysseus flopped backwards in the sand looking up at the sun. His eyes narrowed. Helios probably was mocking him now for what had just happened with the cattle.

He closed his eyes and tried to imagine that he has just washed onto Ithaca, that he was back home, that he had found the island that they called home. Of course, that fantasy didn't come into fruition, because when he opened his eyes again, he found himself staring into the eyes of another woman, who stared at him with lovesick eyes. “Well…Hello there handsome.” She said, kneeling down over him. Odysseus moved away from her as she sat next to him in the sand. “I haven't had visitors in so long! It's truly a blessing that you're here!” She said “Uh…Yes.” Odysseus said, still moving away from her. “Captain!” Polites called out. Odysseus gave a sigh of relief as he came over “What do we do now? Our boat is destroyed and we have no way of getting back to Ithaca now.” He asked.

Odysseus kept his temper in check “We'll just make a new boat. There's a lot of wood here, so we'll just need to create a new ship.” He said. “Then we'll get off the island and sail back to Ithaca.” He said. The woman then gave a laugh “Oh, you sweet sweet soul. There is no way off this island.” She said, having listened to the conversation. “W-What do you mean there's no way off?” Polites asked. The woman smiled at him, though it came off less comforting and more uncomfortable “This island is magic. No one can come or leave. Not even me!” She said. Both men felt their hearts drop in horror. No one could leave this island? Was it cursed?! “But that's OK! Because this is island is paradise! There's everything that you could ever want or need here! Food, clean water, a beautiful island…and me.” She said, her lovesick eyes staring back at Odysseus again.

However, the feeling wasn't mutual as he attempted to walk away from her “NO!” He shouts “I will NOT be condemned to this cursed island!” He roared. He then tried to just start swimming back to Ithaca, walking into the water, and swimming with whatever strength he had left. Suddenly, the water started pushing him back. Odysseus fought as much as he could, but the tides worked against him as he rolled back onto the island. The woman came back to him and stood over him with a smile. “I told you! Nobody can come or go.” She said. Odysseus turned back to her, and his gaze landed on Polites “No. I am NOT staying here.” He said, his voice determined. “Salvage what we have left of the ship. We'll make a raft.” He said. “There's nothing left though Captain…It's nothing but charred wood and ashes.” Polites admitted.

“And the rest of the men are all too tired and hungry to try and cut down trees.” He said. “Don't worry! I'll bring them some food.” The woman said. Odysseus was starting to get annoyed with her. This lady didn't seem to understand the meaning of “no” “You don't have to-” Odysseus was cut off by Polites giving him that same look when they were on the Lotus Eater island. 'Greet the world with open arms...' was what his eyes said. “Thank you very much miss…” He started. The woman smiled at him, and for a split second, he could have sworn that he saw her eyes glow, the same way that Zeus and Poseidon's eyes glowed when they used their powers.

“You can call me Calypso.”

Chapter Text

Days stretched for months up on Olympus. That's what Onna found out. After she woke up back in the Infirmary again Apollo had used his abilities to keep her from running again, a band of gold keeping her stuck to her bed. At the same time, something in Onna…broke. In her bed, she would think about how she wished she had just stayed away from the war, of she had just not gone through with her vow, and stayed with Junsuina. Maybe then, she wouldn't be stuck above the world, with no way down. Onna would find herself just staring at the stars that twinkled above, as shooting stars and comets shot across the sky, and the constellations were formed in front of her. But this didn't bring her joy…it brought up in a new sadness in her. She also found herself not speaking as much anymore. When Apollo told her that she was healing quickly, when Aphrodite brushed her now long hair, when Hestia brought her food. She give a respectful nod, but not say anything else.

When she had finally been released from the Infirmary, she didn't say much either. She had instead been trying to avoid talking to anyone (especially Zeus) as much as possible. She found herself always hiding away from everyone up there. But it didn't last long. Hiding in the clouds resulted in the Winions pulling her out, and playing around with her, staying around the trees, usually one of Artemis's huntresses or Demeter's Nymphs would find her, and make nature reveal her to them. And hiding in the water was a no-no, because gods forbid Poseidon finds her. So she finds herself being involved with a lot of stuff, even when she doesn't feel like it. But no matter what she was dragged into, it wouldn't heal the small hole in her heart that she felt when she thought about Jun, and how she was still probably waiting for her…if she hadn't forgotten about her yet.

Onna found that the gods were also interested in her. Ares and Artemis especially. Everytime they demanded that she show them what skills she possessed, she lacked the same kind of fire that she had during the war. When she showed archer skills to both Artemis and Apollo, she shot target after target, even going so far as to shoot an arrow through an arrow, and then did it again. But her eyes were dulled, and her body was stiff. When Ares challenged her to a sparing match, she fought with the same grace she had on the battlefield, and even beat the God of War himself…but she held no glory, her actions had no excitement in her fighting like she had in Troy. Eventually it got to a point that she didn't even want to EAT. Lavish feasts would be sat in front of her, but she would rarely eat a bite. She would try to find any possible way and excuse to stay away from them, it kept her mind busy enough to not start crying again. Even watching Jun from above.

She rarely moved from the spot poised over Ithaca, gazing down below, tears flowing from her eyes. Whole months she would stay there and watch down below. One day, she eventually had tried to finish herself off, grabbing her sword and jabbing it into her chest. But no matter what, it wouldn't work. She jabbed herself multiple times, but she found her blood now sparkled with gold. She was terrified as she screamed “WHY. CAN'T. I. DIE?!” As Apollo rushed towards her, taking her sword away making her lie down so he could heal the stab wounds. He explained that most of the food up on Olympus had Ambrosia in it, the one thing that makes gods immortal, and she had eaten some of it when she had almost starved herself to death. So now her normally red gold was mixed with Ichor…and she couldn't die.

Onna felt as if the situation was completely hopeless. The crew was dead, she was miles away from Junsuina with no way down, and now she couldn't even have the honor of dying and reuniting with her fallen village and family ‘My life can't possibly get any worse.’ She thought. And that thought was quickly destroyed, when one day, she was found by Aphrodite, who wanted to make use of the blessing she gave to Onna. With a snap, she took the both of them to her domain. There was so much pink and so many roses and flowers that it made Circe's palace look like a shack. “Now I can REALLY make you look beautiful!” The goddess said excitedly, grabbing a small makeup palette, and a brush “It's not every day that a mortal gets to do this, you should he Honored!” She said Onna's eyes widened as the brush got closer, and she heard voices overwhelming her as memories flashed in her eyes.

“You should be honored to be meeting his Imperial Highness…”

“A woman should not wield a sword. If anything I did you a favor melting that thing down…”

“You wretched girl! I am the emperor. When I say beg, you will BEG…”

“GUARDS! FIND HER NOW!! YOU CAN RUN BUT YOU CAN'T HIDE!!...”

“Onna! Take your sister and run! Run far away from here!...”

“ONNA!!!”

Onna, in her panic, kicked the makeup away from Aphrodite, and backed herself into a corner, huddling her knees, and screaming out in fear

“I DON'T WANT TO MEET THE EMPEROR!!”

Chapter Text

Aphrodite was confused at Onna's panicked scream. What emperor? What had happened to her? She saw Onna's breathing quicken as she had taken her back to the infirmary, but Apollo wasn't there. “Now where did he go…” Aphrodite sighed as she sat Onna down on one of the beds. “Stay there. I'm off to find the sunspot.” She said, as she disappeared again. Onna however ran away again, now caring where she went, as she hid in a random temple. She caught her breath, and when she saw that she was alone, she fell to her knees, curling in on herself, and letting herself cry. It had been 6 years up on Olympus, and 19 years since she had left her sister…19 years since she last saw Junsuina. She was officially an adult, and Onna missed ALL of her life. She wouldn't blame Junsuina if she despised her now. For abandoning her for the war, for not returning for her entire childhood. And here she was, stuck because of forces beyond her control.

It had been a long time since Onna had actually let herself cry. For her entire life she had to be strong for her family…for Jun. But she had officially lost hope, and she now had no reason to just let her emotions not come out. The tears started out small, before they fully flowed down her cheeks, each one a reminder of everything she had done, all that she had missed, all that she had lost…”Hey baby.” Came a strong voice above her. Through her crying eyes, she saw the beautiful, but dangerous and commanding presence of the God queen herself. Onna hung her head sadly. Odysseus had told her and Junsuina about Hera, and what happens to those who are on her bad side. Onna couldn't possibly appease her, as she wasn't married, nor pregnant, so to her, there was no way to keep Hera from inflicting her wrath towards her.

“Forgive me lady Hera…” She said softly “I didn't mean to be in your presence.” She said. Hera raised an eyebrow at this. When Onna first arrived on Olympus through Zeus, she had assumed that this was another woman that he had brought up to cheat on her…again. But then Athena and Hermes had mentioned that she had sacrificed herself so that Odysseus and his men could return back to Ithaca…something that they had failed in doing as well. She also saw how she always avoided the other gods (and Zeus like he was the plague), didn't eat anything anymore, and always stayed at that patch of clouds that showed Ithaca. She had to admit, this little mortal intrigued her. She leaned down to Onna's level “You haven't done anything to offend me, though I am surprised, that out of every temple you could have chosen, you come to mine.” She said. Onna meanwhile bows to her

“I just ran to the first temple I saw…I wasn't thinking straight…” she mumbled. Hera raised an eyebrow “You weren't?” She asked “No…I just. Panicked.” Onna admits, head hung in shame. “Panicked?” Hera parroted. “It's just…No. I don't want to think about it again.” Onna said, before throwing herself at the goddesses feet “Oh Lady Hera. I beg of you.” She pleaded, desperation in her voice. “Please just grant me this one mercy.” She asked. Hera now narrowed her eyes. Of course this mortal wanted something. “And what may I ask what this mercy is?” She asked, an uninterested tone in her voice. Onna bowed to her and tears flowed from her eyes at the request. And she spoke, in a tone, that was just heartbroken in every way.

“Please…let me join my family in the underworld. Please strip me of my immortality, and strike me down.”

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Hera was shocked at what Onna wanted. This was the same girl that had helped dwindled the numbers of the Trojan Army, the same girl who had blinded Scylla, and now she wanted to perish? She carefully put Onna in her hand, and raised her to her face, a rare display of gentleness in her eyes. “You want me to end your life right here. Kill you so you may return to the afterlife?” She asked. Onna nods sadly. “And tell me Mortal…why would you want me to do that?” Hera asked. “Because I have nothing left…my village is destroyed. My parents are dead. The man I vowed to protect and his army is gone, and my sister has probably moved on through life without me, and most definitely resents me for being away for too long. I have no reason to keep going now.” She said, her voice getting shaky again. Hera gently raised her head. “That's a funny thing to think. That your sister has forgotten and now resents you.” She said.

Onna narrowed her eyes “It's FUNNY?!” she asked, her voice barely keeping her rage at bay. “Yes. Because I know that she still waits for you, much like how the queen and prince await the return of Odysseus and his men.” Hera explained. Onna's rage vanished. Junsuina was still waiting for her? Even after all this time? It almost sounded too good to be true. “Is she? Is she still truly waiting for me?” She asked. Hera nods “Yes. Every day. For the past 6 years. She's looked out to the ocean, awaiting the day that the ship return, the day that you come back to her.” The God queen clarified. Onna couldn't believe it. Junsuina really was still waiting for her! Even after all this time! But her sadness came back as she remembered a crucial detail “That's a beautiful thing that my sister still waits for me.” She started “But I can't GET to her…I can't get out of here even if I wanted. I sacrificed myself to Zeus remember?” She reminded.

Hera looked down at the saddened Onna “Oh I remember.” She said “But…there's nothing that says you can't be released.” Onna perked up at that. What was Hera implying? “Still want to perish by my hand?” The queen asked. Onna shook her head. “No…unless…I'm still stuck here.” She said “Just give it time. Athena's little mortal is stuck on an island as well.” she said. Onna's eyes widened. Athena's little mortal? That meant Odysseus! He and the men were still alive! But then…where were they? “Oh God queen. Please. Tell me if they're alright. If they're alive…” she said. “I'll show you.” Hera said, with her taking Onna to her personal chamber, and setting her in front of a mirror. With a wave of her hand, she showed the surviving men, all alive. Onna felt a wave of relief. Zeus hadn't killed them after all! But where were they? “This is the island of Ogygia. The prison of Calypso, and now the remainder of the crew.” Hera explained.

“Prison?” Onna asked. “How can an island be a prison?? They can just swim away.” She said. “If that was the case then Calypso wouldn't be there.” Hera told her. “Who?” Onna asked “The sole inhabitant of that island. A titan's daughter. One that my husband overthrew millenia ago.” Hera said. “And Zeus needed a fitting punishment for the slaughter of one of Helios's cows…” she said. Onna sagged. So THAT'S why they were still alive and still there. “Can't you release them? You're the god queen!” She asked. “My husband is the one that rules the heavens. I rule by his side.” Hera explained to her. Onna's heart dropped like a weight. Zeus was the only one who could order their release, but she didn't want to get anywhere NEAR him. And something told her that Zeus wouldn't allow their freedom that easily.

“Isn't there anything that you can do?” Onna asked. “Regarding the release of you? No. But I can make sure that I do get a say in the matter, should the moment finally arise.” Hera said. Onna nods, it's not a yes, but was something…at least for the time being. “Thank you.” She said, bowing her head, before she remembered that she was still being stalked by the other immortal gods “Oh…one last thing. Can I…stay in your temple?” She asked “I don't trust Zeus. Odysseus told me one too many myths about him going after women.” She said. She REALLY didn't want to take the chance of Zeus coming after her, especially since she was trapped up there with no possible way down. Hera smiled. She liked this girl. “Yes. I'll keep you away from my husband.” She said.

Onna, for the first time in what felt like years, smiled. Even trapped up there, she had a (somewhat) Ally…for now

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Another year passed as Onna hid in Hera's temple, away from prying eyes. True to what the God Queen said, she had been kept in Hera's personal temple and chambers, hidden from the other gods (Especially Zeus). During that time, Onna had kept herself busy. Still using her sword, and using the mirror to check on Junsuina and Odysseus. Her heart broke at both of their situations. Junsuina stuck back in Ithaca, waiting for her to return, along with Penelope and Telemachus awaiting for Odysseus to come home as well. Odysseus at the same time also suffering. He and his men are trapped on this enchanted island, and this Calypso person didn't seem to understand the concept of ‘No'. Going so far as to try and seduce Odysseus and his men…mainly Odysseus. Onna felt a shiver down her spine at the sight…it brought back something she tried to keep buried. Something she tried to hide all those years ago.

She held her head and stepped away from the mirror, thinking that if she didn't see it, those memories would go away. But unfortunately…She wasn't the only one in the temple that day. Onna found herself hiding from both Ares and Athena (and Aphrodite…) All of which were looking for Onna “...Surely you've seen her Hera. It's quite hard to not see a mortal on Olympus.” Ares said. “If I saw a mortal, they would be smite down by my hand by now.” Hera said, disdain in her voice at what the 3 of them were trying to insinuate. “One of my Nymphs saw her in your temple.” Aphrodite said. Onna pressed herself to hide. How?! How did one of them see her?! “Besides…I want to know what happened that day, when she screamed ‘I don't want to meet the emperor’.” Aphrodite added. “Well no mortal escapes me.” Hera said “So just come back if I manage to find her remains.” She said.

None of the gods however looked entirely convince at the statement. Sure Hera was the God queen, but she wasn't the most convincing god…at least when talking to other gods. But no one could argue against her, since she was still capable destroying them. They all moved away from her temple, but Athena, once she was a good distance away, turned herself into an Owl, and flew in through a different way. And lo and behold, she saw Onna hiding in the temple. Though, more surprisingly, she saw Hera comforting her. The two of them were gazing into Hera's mirror, and they saw Odysseus near a cliff, seemingly lost all hope. That traitor Calypso trying to pull him back to solid land. “Odysseus…you can't give up yet…” Onna whispered, her hand pressed up against the glass. “He's been through so much. We all have…” she sighed, looking away. “Give it time.” Hera said. “But how much longer until he snaps? How much more must they be put through?” Onna asked.

“Gods work in…strange ways.” Hera said. “Zeus won't release them for his own amusement, as well as a fitting punishment.” She said. “But it wasn't him that killed that cow!” Onna argued. “And what am I going to do?!” She panicked, remembering the earlier conversation “Aphrodite is after me! And shes going to find me! Andtheemperorisgoingtofindme!Andmyvillagewillbedoomed!andJunwillbedoomed!anditwillbemyfault!and-!” Onna began to panic, her words jumbling together and her breath getting quicker. She clutched her hands around her waist in fear as tears formed in her eyes. Hera raised Onna up to eye level “Easy little mortal…” she said as she heard Onna try to calm herself down, whispering to herself “I'mawarrior,notadoll.I'mawarrior,notadoll.I'mawarriornotadoll.” She told herself “I'm a warrior. Not a doll…” she said, her breathing calming down a little.

Athena watched the interaction from her perch. Something that Aphrodite said made her have such a strong reaction. Made her panic like that. Her eyes narrowed at the sight. She only saw that kind of reaction when women were…were…Athena flew off, back to Aphrodite's domain, where she was petting one of her doves “Oh. Hello sister.” The goddess of love simply said. “Aphrodite. What did you say to Onna?” Athena simply asked. Aphrodite raised an eyebrow at the question. “I don't know what you mean.” She said. “Something that you said made her panic and run away from you.” Athena clarified “What did you say to her?” She asked. Now Aphrodite looked interested “Well…when I spoke to her, I had just taken her to my domain, just for us to have a little girl time together, and I said that she should be honored.” She said. “Then the next thing I know, she begins to panic, and ran away, yelling she didn't want to meet some emperor.” She said.

This piqued Athena's interest…it would seem that there was more to Onna's past than she initially thought. However, her attention was then directed back in Ithaca…with Telemachus.

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Telemachus didn't know just how lucky he was to even gotten OUT of that fight with Antinous…then again, he did have Athena on his side helping him fight back…but this scared him. Those suitors were getting more dangerous by the day, and this fight just proved that. His entire body felt sore from the blows that the brute dealt. And his face was now covered in bruises. Taking his chances, he didn't run back to his room in the palace, but rather he ran to Junsuina's home…and she nearly passed out seeing the damage that had been done. Cassandra ended up being the one that got the healing supplies, while Junsuina fretted over his injuries. “I'm surprised you're even still alive! Antinous is twice the size of you! And twice as strong! You already know that he wants to see you die! What on earth made you go up against him?!” She asked

Telemachus looked away. He actually had 2 reasons to get into that fight. One because those pigs called his mother a tramp. And two because he had insulted Junsuina, and claimed she should be better in bed than with him. But of course, he wasn't going to let Junsuina know that part, so he only told her the first part “He called mother a Tramp. I was only defending her honor.” He stated. “Wouldn't you do the same if he called your sister that?” He asked. Junsuina froze, and she sighed “Yes…yes I would.” She admitted. “The only upside of being a girl, is that I get the element of surprise.” She said. “But it was reckless! You could have been killed!” She said, changing the subject. “No he wouldn't. After all, he has other battles in the future that he fights…” Cassandra said, looking ahead. “Not helping!” Junsuina yelled “Don't encourage him!” She shouted. “But I had help in that fight!” Telemachus blurts out “Oh really…and who helped you?” Junsuina asked.

Just as Telemachus was about to answer, the hoot of an owl caught their attention. They all turned to the window, and saw a grew owl that transformed into Athena. Telemachus smiled at the goddess, while both Cassandra and Junsuina bowed in shock. “Lady Athena!” Cassandra started “Did we do anything to displease you?” She asked. The goddess of War shook her head. “No. I am here because of him.” She said. “I was the one that helped him get through the fight with that dog.” She said, spatting the last word like poison. Junsuina was shocked, Telemachus got help in his fist fight from the goddess of War herself?! Telemachus nods “Yeah! She helped me! She told me what to do against him! I still lost…but she still helped me!” He grinned. Athena nodded, but she then turns to Junsuina. “I also had a question for you.” She said. Now this made Junsuina tensed…what exactly did she want with her?

“It's regarding your sister.” She said. Junsuina felt her heart almost stop. Her sister?! Onna?! “What is it?! Is she ok?! DO you know where she is?! Where is she?!” She asked rapidly. Athena held up a finger and she stopped immediately. “I do know where she is. But I need you to help me understand something.” She said. “About your sister's past.” Junsuina looked away. She didn't like talking about her past at ALL. Or her sister's. Whenever someone brought it up, she always changed the subject very quickly, or walked away before anyone could pry deeper. But there wasn't much she could do against a goddess…”I have been curious about your past as well. I didn't know much from what Onna told me. But she stated something about her not being meant to look pretty.” Cassandra said. “Not helping.” She hissed

“If it makes you feel more open. I'll give you a deal. You tell me about your past. And I'll show you just where your sister, and Odysseus is.” Athena offered. This made both Junsuina and Telemachus's eyes widened. She knew where BOTH of them were?! “You know where father is?!” Telemachus gasped. Athena gave a quick nod. Junsuina looked between her, and the now elated Telemachus. She didn't like revealing her past…but Athena knew where Onna was…where her years long gone sister was. With a relenting sigh, she nods. “OK…I'll tell you about our past.” She said. Athena then brought them all into her Quick Thought. “Whoa…” all 3 of them gasped. “Where are we?” Cassandra asked “This is my domain. The Quick Thought dimension.” Athena said. “In order for this to work, we'll have to do a time dive.” She explained, gesturing Junsuina over, holding out her hand.

The sister gave the goddess an unsure look, but at this point, she would have done anything to know where Onna was. So against all better nature, she went over to Athena, and held her hand. The hourglass they all stood on then cracked, and all 4 of them fell into the sands of time. Telemachus and Cassandra panicked, but it did nothing, as they sunk deeper and deeper. When they finally were deep enough, the sand faded away. And the 4 of them found themselves in a village, one that looked far different than the ones back in Greece. “Where are we?” Telemachus asked. Junsuina then spoke in a saddened tone

“This was our Home…”

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Cassandra and Telemachus were shocked. “You mean…this was where you lived before you washed up on Ithaca?” Telemachus asked. Junsuina nodded. As she looked off at the gollahe “Me and my sister were born in a small village. In a part of the world that we called Japan.” She said. They all then saw a man, in fancy robes, being carried around by soldiers, all of which looked tired. “But things weren't…great.” Junsuina explained “We were ruled by a very cruel emperor. He was nothing like Odysseus, or any king you've seen before. He was selfish and petty. He would tax our entire village. We'd be lucky enough if we had enough money for a bite of scraps.” She said. Cassandra and Telemachus saw the state of the village, and she saw the starving people that scrambled for any crumbs that fell to the ground. Their eyes grew hard “He sounds like those awful suitors.” the prince stated angrily “He was. But we held fast. We didn't let the hardships affect us…much.” She said, gesturing to the people who shared what little they had, even if it was just a blanket, or a piece of bread.

They then saw a couple, a small child clinging to the woman's robe. “Our mother and father, they always showed kindness. The two of them were well off, but they always shared what they could with everyone.” Junsuina said. The memory showed the man kneeling down, offering an apple to a couple that were starving, while the woman played the town a calming song on an instrument that none of them had seen before. Telemachus however, his eyes landed on the child. “Is that you?” He asked. Junsuina smiled “Nope. That's Onna. Back then, she was called 神の女. But everyone called her Onna for short.” She said, a small smile on her face. “I wasn't born yet.” She explained. Cassandra gave a small smile at the very young Onna, who helped pass out food to everyone. “This is the same woman who cut down most of Troy.” She asked in a playful tone, as she saw the small wooden sword on Onna's hip. “She never changed.” She said.

The memory then changed, and it showed guards rounding all manor of women “Then…one day, the emperor made a decree. All woman of marrying age, were to be taken to the palace…as part of his ‘Concubine’.” Junsuina said in disgust. “Concubine? Can this man be any more horrible?” Telemachus asked. “We all asked that. Most families did everything in their power to hide their daughters.” Junsuina explained, showing one family hiding their 18 year old daughters away from the guards, only to be forcibly taken away “Some men even tried dressing up as women to keep them away from their families.” She said, as they saw another family. With their man dressed as a woman…very poorly. The guards just pushed him away and dragged the mother and daughter away. All 3 of them watched the display in horror. Junsuina however, her eyes were landed on a house hidden away in the trees, a small light emanating from the window.

“Mother and Father…they knew it was only a matter of time before the emperor came for them. Mother was already in danger, and Onna wouldn't remain a child forever…” she said. The 4 of them got closer to the building, and they could hear a conversation inside “…どうすればいいの？ 彼女をフーハイから隠すわけにはいかない。彼はもう私たちに子供がいることを知っている。” asked a female voice from inside “What did they say?” Cassandra asked “Mother is asking what they're going to do. Since the emperor already knows that they have a child.” Junsuina translated “カミノンナの性別がわからない。もしかしたら、彼女の正体を隠しておけるかもしれない。” said a male voice “Father says that the emperor doesn't know about Onna's true gender…that they can hide it.” Junsuina translated. “So…your family disguised Onna as a boy?” Telemachus asked. Junsuina nods as the memory shifts again

It shows a now 8 year old Onna, her hair cut short, “They then hid Onna. Mother cut her hair short, and father changed her name to Hensō.” She said. “And this worked. Every time they went down to the village, Onna looked like a boy. And it worked.” She said, showing Onna playing with other boys, and training with their father. “She didn't mind it, because that meant that she could learn about how to fight, and use her own sword.” She explained. “And she almost forgot that she was a boy, and not a girl…that is, until her 12th birthday.” Junsuina said. None of them knew what she meant, until They could hear Onna's panicked gasps “お母さん！お父さん！私の胸に大きなしこりができてます！” she cried. The 4 of them were now inside the house, and saw Onna, covering her chest with her hands and clothes. Telemachus blushed as he looked away as Cassandra realized that Onna was now growing into puberty…and looked more like a girl now. Both her mother and father now looked worried.

“Now Onna couldn't go outside at all. If she did, then she'd surely be taken away. So she had to be extremely careful…” Junsuina said, as the memory shifted. Showing a now 16 year old Onna, standing near her mother, who now held a small bundle in her hands. “So I'm guessing that's you.” Athena Telemachus said. “Yep! The day that I was born.” Junsuina said, a small smile on her face as she saw Onna hold her in her arms, tears streaming from her eyes. “世界へようこそ…シスター… 約束する。いつも君を守る。” she said softly, as the newborn Junsuina held her finger. A tear fell from Junsuina's eye. Witnessing this moment made her feel a small heaviness in her heart it had been so long ago that Onna made that promise, so long since she had seen her…the memory changed again to reveal two guards at the house, and how Onna was willingly going with them. “Then…the emperor sent a summon for Onna, who was still under the guise of a man.” She said.

“Of course…The ruse wouldn't last long.”

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The memory changed to that of a golden palace. It shimmered in the sunlight that it almost seemed straight from the peeks of Olympus “This is the palace where the emperor lives…” Junsuina “And you can see what most of the wealth goes to.” She said in disgust. “He cares more about himself and his wealth than his own people…” Cassandra growled, her anger rising at the way this poor excuse of a man used his wealth. “At this time, Onna hadn't been found out, but the emperor wanted our father's “Son” as a guard, after there had been an attempt on his life, and since he knows about his skills, he knows that he had been training Onna.” Junsuina said. The 4 of them watched as Onna walked into the palace and bowed before the emperor, who made it VERY clear that she was there to protect him and no one else.

“During the time at the palace, Onna quickly rose in the ranks. Proving that she was better than all of the guards combined.” She said, as the memory showed Onna sparring with the guards. And winning. All of them narrowed their eyes in anger, as the emperor looked down from his spot where he was watching. “Eventually, Onna was promoted to the head of the guard. And still no one suspected about her gender…until the end of the year.” Junsuina said, as the memory changed to Onna going out to a lake to bathe. She checked around to see if there was anyone around. She still knew the risks about having her gender revealed to anyone that wasn't her family.

Seeing that she was alone, she then removed her clothes and walked into the water. Onna gave a sigh of relief, washing the grime and dirt from her body, when she heard the slightest rustling of leaves, her body on high alert. At the same time, Cassandra, Telemachus and Athena scanned the alert. “What was that?” The prince of Ithaca asked. “You'll see soon enough…” Junsuina said. The memory again changed, revealing Onna walking back to the guards barracks, only for a few guards to now stop her. Her eyes narrowed “何をしているの？通してくれ” She said. “  ヘンソウ、新たな命令が下ったぞ。皇帝フーハイから直接だ” One of them said. “新規注文?” Onna asked, an eyebrow raised. “新規注文." The other guard told her.

Onna grew suspicious as she was lead somewhere else…towards where the Emperor's concubine slept. “これは何についてですか?” She asked. She didn't get an answer, and was instead given a bundle of clothing and pushed inside. There, she was then grabbed by a bunch of female attendants, one of which grabbing her sword, much to her dismay “おい！それを返せ！!” She shouted. “いずれ戻ってきますよ。準備が整うまでじっとしていてください.” Said another attendant. It was a flurry of fabric, before Onna found herself in a beautiful kimono, decorated in beautiful floral patterns. Onna gave a disgusted look at herself, when she tried to leave, when she was then pushed down in front of a mirror.

The attendants then began to paint her face with make-up. Onna squirmed as best as she could, but there were more hands, and she didn't have her sword. “さあ、じっとしていなさい。ほら、側室の一員となるのは奉仕の務めよ。皇帝に選ばれたことを光栄に思うべきだわ。” One of them said. Athena's eyes widened, this seemed to mirror just what had happened before with Aphrodite, before Onna ran away from her. “私は人形じゃない！戦士だ！” Onna argued. “私は装飾品としてではなく、敵を倒すべきです！” She argued. The attendants around her seemed to laugh “女が剣を持つべきではない！それは男の義務だ。.” One of them said. “あなたがこのように身を隠していたことに驚きました。” Another said “男たちの間に隠れている。女は皇帝にふさわしいほど美しいことを喜ぶべきだ。” Said a 3rd.

Onna didn't see it that way. She continued to fight against the attendants, until she eventually looked…beautiful. All 4 of them had to admit, Onna was a sight to behold. If she wasn't against ever looking feminine, she would have been the heartthrob of anyone who earned her…unfortunately, that wasn't the case. The memory changed again, this time in a private room, where a box was laid in front of Onna. “私の剣はどこですか？” She asked. “箱の中を見た方がいいかもしれない.” Said the guard that handed it to her. She narrowed her eyes, but she opened what was inside…and saw it was a hairpin. One of silver and decorated in gems. “これをどうすればいいのでしょうか?” She muttered.

“たぶん、着た方がいいわ。だって、あなたのような美人が、こんなに長い間、自分を隠して過ごすなんて、そうそうあることじゃないんだから。”

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Onna looked up, and saw the emperor staring down at her. A lustful gaze in his eyes. All 4 of them watched the two of them. Junsuina had gone silent, when Onna told her what happened, she always said that there was a confrontation with the emperor…but what that confrontation was she always left out. “Your highness…” Onna started, as she respectfully bowed her head. “Hello ‘Hensō’...” He said in a sly voice. “I must say, I'm surprised that this is how we meet.” He said “I must ask…what do you mean your highness? We have met just a few months ago.” She said. “I mean the REAL you. The you that you managed to hide from me for so long…” he told her.

Onna looked away from him “With all do respect your highness. I believe there has been a mistake.” She said “I came to the palace as a warrior, not as a doll.” She said. The emperor just raised an eyebrow. “And I remember passing a law that states all women were to come to the palace, to be a part of my concubine.” He said kneeling to her level. “And it would seem that you are of age.” He said. Onna leaned away from him. “I am NOT a doll. So if you can just tell me where my sword is, then I'll resume my post.” She said. The emperor was starting to get annoyed now “You're holding your sword now.” He said. Onna raised an eyebrow, as she looked down at the hairpin in her hands…and looking at it closer, it looked like the same metal from…her…

“You turned my sword into a hairpin?!” She yelled. “Don't you raise your voice at me.” The emperor said in a low tone. He then grabbed her arm forcefully. “I am your emperor. And you are my doll. When I say jump. You ask how high. And when I say peg. You will BEG.” he said, now pinning her down, his hands now slowly opening her kimono. “Now be a girl, and BEG.” he said, leaning into her face, and smiling smugly. Onna's breath began to quicken, and everything seemed to slow down for her, when she suddenly, in a act of blind fear, took the hairpin, and lodged it into the emperor's eye. He gave a yell of pain as he launched himself back against the wall. With a clear opening, Onna ran away from the emperor, from the room, and from the palace grounds. She finds her way to the stables and saw one of the horses.

“GUARDS!!!!!!!!” The emperor screamed in rage. “FIND HER! FIND THAT BITCH!!!” He roared. Onna's back was pressed against the stables. She was DOOMED. The minute she stepped outside, she was as good as dead. She looked around for anything she could use. But the only thing that was around, were the horses… Almost instantly, she began to untie one of them, and made it run in a random direction. “THAT WAY!!” Yelled a guard “AFTER THAT HORSE!” Yelled another. The sound of footsteps and armor clanking was heard, before it grew quiet. She carefully looked outside, making sure that the coast was clear, before sprinting towards the nearby woods, running as fast as she could away from…everything.

The memory changed again, showing her looking worse for Wear. The make-up on her face was ruined from sweat and tears, her beautiful silk kimono torn and covered in dirt and grime. She had made her way back to her village, tired, hungry, and scared out of her mind. She held her cries as she finally reached her house, and made her way inside. The 4 of them saw her mother, father, and a very young Junsuina watching as she walked in. Onna's mother gasped as she quickly rushed to her “Onna! What happened to you?!” She asked, as she held her shoulders. And in that moment, Onna sank to her knees and broke down in tears. Her mother hugged her tightly, joined by her father, and them Junsuina, who toddled her way over to Onna.

Onna looked down at her sister, who gazed up at her with curious eyes. “I swear this now. I will make sure that NOTHING ever hurts you. That you will never have to go what I went through…” she vowed, as her forehead touched with Junsuina. And though she didn't know what was going on, Junsuina giggled as she held Onna's head, as a very squeaky “Oa!” Left her mouth. “Oa! Oa!” She “spoke” as the sisters were held close together.

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Time seemed to stop for a moment as Cassandra looked over to Junsuina. A tear streaking her face. “All this time…I didn't know that she hid this from me…” she whispered. “She never told you…” Telemachus realized. “I can't believe Onna never told me this…all I remembered was that she was scratched up and dirty, and sweared off anything feminine ever again…” Junsuina admitted. Athena's eyes widened. THAT'S why she reacted the way she did with Aphrodite. The memory then changed again, to show Onna and Junsuina, now 2 years old together. She didn't make much of an effort to hide her true gender anymore, since the emperor now knew, but that didn't mean she was any more against looking feminine

Junsuina however, she parades around In a pretty green and blue Yutaka, taking her sister by the hand and pulling her on “C'mon! Let's go!” She said cheerfully. “I'm coming Jun, don't worry!” She said with a smile, following her sister. “Now remember, be careful.” Their mother said as she looked at the two of them. “Don't worry mother! We will.” Onna said as Junsuina tugged at her hand “C'mon! Let's go pick some peaches!” She said. “I'm coming. I don't want to be late for training.” Onna said. “Your father is preparing something for you.” their mother said. Onna was curious, but her sister was pulling her onward “C'mon! The peaches!” She whined. “Ok OK, let's go.” Onna said.

The two sisters left the house, and wandered their way into a forest where peach trees grew. Junsuina eyes grew wide, and at the same time, tears leaked from her eyes. “I remember this moment…” she said in a tearful voice. “This was the day…Me and Onna. We were going to pick peaches, from a blooming peach tree in the forest.” She said, as Telemachus, Cassandra and Athena watched the sisters pick some peaches from the tree, Junsuina climbing the tree and Onna calling her a little monkey “I'm not a monkey! Monkeys eat bananas! And I don't like bananas!” She said, sticking out her tongue. “You may not eat like one, but you climb like one!” Onna remarked.

Junsuina jumped down from the trees, and into her sister's arms. The two of them then sat by the try, enjoying the sunshine as they feasted on the peaches. “This was the last happy moment We had together, before…” The older Junsuina trailed off as the memory changed. The two sisters were walking back, with Junsuina holding a few peaches in her hand, when they heard it. Screaming. Loud. Fearful. Terrified for their lives screaming. The scent of smoke also met everyone's noses as the girls saw smoke. The two of them ran back to their home, and their eyes, as well as those who were watching, widened in horror at what they were seeing.

The entire village was enveloped in flames. Bloodied and slain bodies strewn on the ground as soldiers. Dragged out people from their homes. “Where is she?! Where is your so-called “Hensō?!” A guard yelled at an elderly couple. Junsuina had to hold back a scream at the sight. Cassandra looked away. This reminded her too much of the night that Troy was sacked…but this was as worse than some silly war. This was all because of a selfish emperor. Onna and Junsuina quickly slipped back to their home, but not without her sparing one last look at the elderly couple…before they were both beaten and stabbed to death.

Junsuina cried into her sister's side. Onna held her head. Her sister was too young to be witnessing something so horrible. The two of them entered their burning home, as they got under the smoke to find their parents and run. “MOTHER! FATHER!” WHERE ARE YOU?!” Junsuina screamed as the two of them kept their heads low. “WE MUST FLEE!” Onna yelled over the crackling of flames. The two of them searched the entire house, and finally found their parents…but to their horror, it would seem that they were the first targets. “MOTHER FATHER!” The two of them screamed in horror. Onna turned their father over, and he was badly hurt, and wounded, but he still was holding on, their mother as well.

“Girls…” their father croaked from the smoke “It's…It's dangerous here…you must run away from here…” he said. “No. NO NO! We can't leave you!” Onna pointed out as she grabbed her father's hand “C'mon! We have to go!” She said. But he let go. “No…YOU must go. The emperor is still looking for you…he'll burn the entire country until he finds you…” Their mother said weakly. “But what about you?!” Junsuina asked. “We'll…be fine.” Their mother said, through her current state said otherwise. Onna coughed from the smoke and tried to wave it away, when her mother gently touched her cheek and gave her a smile “Never…forget why you fight…” she said weakly.

Their father then handed Onna something, and she recognized it immediately. It was her father's sword! “Father… I can't!” She protested, trying to hand it back. “No…you've earned it.” He said. “One last memory…to carry by your side…” he said with what little strength he had left. The sounds of wood getting weaker was heard, as well as the sounds of the soldiers getting closer. “Quickly, you must flee before they return.” Their father said, pointing towards a nearby torn bit of wall. The sisters gave one last look at their father, before they escapes from the house and ran as fast as their legs could take them. All the while, they looked back at the destruction that was once their home.

The memory then changed to them finally reaching the ocean, and to their luck, their was a small boat nearby. “Quick. In the boat.” Onna told Junsuina. The younger sister complied as the two of them set sail, just as they started to hear guard getting closed. “Get down!” She ordered. The sisters ducked into the boat, heads low enough so that they'd stay out of view. They were a good enough distance away so that when the guards arrived, I looked like someone was just fishing. Both of them held their breath. Would the guards come? Would they sink them into the unforgiving waters. “Any luck finding the girl?” Came the voice of the emperor. “No your highness. But we're still looking.” Said a guard. The emperor gave him a loud smack on his face “They couldn't have gotten far! Search the neighboring villages! Burn everything down if you must!” He ordered. “Yes sir.” The guards replied, and they marched away from the shore. The girls peeked their heads out of the boat, and looked out into the endless sea that stretched before them.

“What do we do now?” Junsuina asked. Onna looked down at her little sister, and then looked down at her father's…no. HER sword now. “I don't know.” She admitted, and then looked into Junsuina's eyes “But I do know one thing. We're on our own. We look out for each other. And I swear to you now sis. I'm gonna protect you. And I'll never leave you alone…” Onna vowed. Tears were flowing down the older Junsuina's face at the memory, just as they had left the time dive.

Chapter Text

They all now had returned to Athena's domain, Junsuina had sunken to her knees, tears flowing down her face. Cassandra and Telemachus's cautiously approached her. “Junsuina…Are you alright?” Telemachus asked. “I just relived the most traumatizing moment in my entire life. How do YOU think I'm doing.” She asked, a small bite in her tone. Telemachus looked away, a little embarrassed to have even ASKED that. But the two of them had been through so much, he had to ask her. However, that wasn't what Junsuina was focused on right now “OK Athena. I did my part, now you do yours. Tell us where they are. Tell me where my sister is.” She said, her voice bordering on tears.

Athena looked down at the mortal, trying desperately to calm herself down. A deal was a deal, so using her powers again, she showed them just where Odysseus and the rest of the crew was: stranded on Ogygia. Telemachus's eyes widened “Father!” He exclaimed, a relief filling him, since he, and the rest of the crew were still alive. His relief turned to confusion when he saw Calypso wrapping her arms around Odysseus's waist. Odysseus glared down at her as Calypso gave a happy smile. “C'mon my love! Just one night in bed. One night and we can be truly in paradise.” She said. Odysseus shoved her off “I already told you. I'm not yours. I have a wife and son waiting for me, and I won't forget them.” He said.

“And what happens if they have forgotten about you? It's been years now. Surely you would be happier with me! It's better to stop resisting, since since there is no way off this island…and you, AND your men know it.” She said, her eyes glowing again. “Captain? We're trying again soon…once we regain our strength.” Polites said, the winion on his shoulder eating a banana from a nearby tree. Odysseus bit back a groan. They had already tried 4 times this month…the same routine they had for the last 7 years. But they wouldn't give up. Or more specifically, ODYSSEUS wouldn't give up. Even with the interference of Calypso, and this stupid curse surrounding the island.

Telemachus watches with tears in his eyes. All this time, Odysseus had been trapped on this island with this very clingy goddess. “Where's Onna?” Junsuina asked. “You said that my sister was alive, where is she?” She asked. “She's not on that island.” Athena told her. “She's up on Mount Olympus. Where I live.” She said “Among the gods…” Junsuina whispered, realizing just what Cassandra meant now. “What is she doing up there?” She asked. “She's actually the reason the men are still alive.” Athena said “One of them had killed one of Helios sacred cattle, and she sacrificed herself in order to keep them alive. Zeus had intended on making her his most recent…lover when she offered herself, but something happened to her. Something broke.” She explained

“So she's still up there?” Junsuina asked, her breath getting quicker and her heart racing at the very NOTION that her sister was alive. “Yes. Yes she is, but to her it's a prison.” Athena explained. “Well, can't you get her out of there? And Odysseus and his men off that island? You're a goddess too!” She exclaimed “It's not that easy.” Athena said “She willingly put herself up there for the death of Helios Cattle.” She said. Junsuina however didn't back down “But you're a goddess! And the goddess of wisdom at that! You should be able to say otherwise!” She argued. Athena narrowed her eyes at the little mortal, she didn't hold her tongue, that's for sure.

Cassandra held Junsuina's shoulder “You forget, it's not Athena's choice whether she helps them escape, it's Zeus's choice. And so far, that choice doesn't seem to be an option…” she said. Junsuina looked away “But she can't stay up there! She's not a God! Sooner or later she'd wither away, and die, and leave me all alone and on my own, and-!” She was cut off by Telemachus “You won't be alone Junsuina…you still have me, and Cassandra and Saisei…I know that were not replacements for your sister, just like none of those men are a replacement for my father…but we have to hold fast. Be strong and see it through…isn't that what you tell me?” He said.

Junsuina looked down for a moment…and tears began to flow down from her face again. She was done holding her emotions. She threw herself onto Telemachus. And who could blame them? They both had just found out that their loved ones were being held away from them because of divine circumstances. Athena watched the interaction…and a decision was formed in her head.

Chapter Text

Ok...bad news everyone.

Due to the whole AI Scrape thing. This, as well as every other story I have right now, is on hold until this gets cleared up.

To those enjoying our little tale, I am truly sorry to have done this, but it has to happen.

See you around, and hopefully, with a few new chapters!