Bringer of Peace

ecause the world is so full of death and horror, I try again and again to console my heart and pick the flowers that grow in the midst of hell

[eighthwondcr]

overturned nature ; cerynitis & eirene

[eighthwondcr]

She had felt something building up in her body, causing her to feel at once stiff and loose; it wriggled throughout her bones and encased them like sticky tar, making her head feel fuzzy and her heart race. There was no name for this sickening feeling in her previous form, and the ailments that so easily befell this body confused Cerynitis - how could humans enjoy themselves, and why did the Gods keep these infernal suits? Yet as quickly as the anxiety - for that was what it was, even if she had not know it - had overtaken her, it was released, like water thrown back to sea. Her heart calmed, as did she, yet she thought little of it, attributing it to her strange limbs and core.

It was hard to imagine eating anything at the moment, with the way her body was feeling… yet still, her stomach rumbled at the mention of food, despite the rest of her cringing at the mention. “… Do you any apples?” Cerynitis asked hopefully as she turned to Eirene, who had always delighted her with fresh fruits. She allowed herself to be led by Eirene, heart rate still subsiding, as she began to calm. “I do not understand why my body reacts this way. Before, it would only be if I ate something unfit that my insides would react. Now…” She shook her head. “There are many things I have yet to learn about being human.”

[peaceofeirene]

Eirene cautiously led the pair away from their meeting point, her eyes darting in all directions looking for any possible sign of trouble. Just as Eirene worked to calm her troubled friend she too began to feel more at peace. The further away they got from the carnage the easier it became for the woman to breathe freely. It was no wonder that doe had felt so ill at ease where the two had met the streets were stained with blood. Now as they carefully made their way through the city in search of shelter the streets were cleaner, the shards of glass cleared, and the bodies of the deceased grew fewer in number. 

The personification smiled playfully knowing full well of Cery's particular love of apples. "I think I've got one in here," slipping her hand into her bag she felt for the apple she knew remained. "Aha! Here dear. Your stomach is probably still a little upset, so don't be to hasty with eating it." Eirene patted the doe's hand, her expression comforting. "It's strange. I believe it has to do with your emotions and how your brain processes them now that you're in a body so unlike what it is used to." After a brief sigh she continued, "Yes, but all in due time. It will not be an easy ride but perhaps in the end you will enjoy it. I'm also happy to help with any inquiries." The embodiment spotted a bench that looked relatively clean, "How about there?" She said gesturing to the bench, her eyes scanning the landscape for danger. 

[peaceofeirene]

Giving is Easy || Asclepius & Eirene

[iswearby-the-physician-deactiva]

Asclepius walked over to the kid who was still asleep.

He could hear Eirene as she was moving about and rooting throughout the kitchen. She was making a bit of a racket.

"Hey," he spoke softly at first before he began clicking his tongue, he lightly tapped the kid on their shoulder before speaking again but slightly louder,"Morning kiddo."

The child stirred and woke up with a loud exhale and some stretching.

"You like figs?" Asclepius popped the jar open again and produced a fig, the kid looked confused. They were still half asleep to be fair,"You want one?"

Asclepius held the fig out closer to the kid who pushed away Asclepius’ hand. He just shook his head and with a slightly smile,”Well you’re missing out.”

Asclepius took a bit of the fig. He realised was eating too many figs - well he was still hungry but there were bound to be hungrier people elsewhere. It felt like his internal monologue was turning into a charity appeal … Asclepius took another bite of the fig as Eirene entered the front of the cafe with some excitement.

She was grinning and clutching some more jars which she handed one to each of them. Asclepius couldn’t help but smile as well, “Oh my Gods what luck…” the phrase suddenly sounded redudnant given the state of things but he just found it amazing at how happy she was from a few bottles of water

Asclepius smiled to Eirene,”What luck. Thank you.” Asclepius opened his own bottle and was about to take a drink as he saw the kid struggling with the lid.

"Let me," Asclepius put out his and hand and took the water bottle and opened it easily,"There you go."

The kid began to chug the water down,”Woah, slow down there. You don’t wanna pee all of that out before we even start walking.” 

Asclepius only took a small sip planning to leave some for the kid if she finishes it all and gets thirsty later.

[peaceofeirene]

The personification grinned even wider, and nodded enthusiastically. Luck was most definitely on their side even if only for the moment, their journey would be much easier with food. She watched the bottles interchange, sobering as the child could hardly contain herself in the presence of the water. Eirene had no idea how thirsty the girl had been, her feelings were now mixed. Guilt for having kept the girl thirsting for so long but also feeling blessed by the luck that has kept them safe thus far. 

Twisting off her own cap taking a healthy swig of the refreshing beverage, regardless of it's tepid temperature. Eirene sighed satisfied,"Bathroom breaks won't be the most luxurious either." She teased, reaching over to smooth out the girl's bed hair. Her face was still sleep ridden Eirene was doubtful her nap had been satisfactory. "Did you have nice dreams little one?" Eirene spoke in a comforting tone, she wondered how long it would take the girl to fully wake up so they could finish their journey. 

Turning to Asclepius, the embodiment smiled. "So what's the verdict? Figs nay or yay?" 

Eirene rose and made her way back to the table where she had dropped off the remaining bottles. Scooping them up with wide hands her hand span just barely able to hold them. "There's a few more bottles in the back, this is all I could grab." She looked for the bags she had handed over earlier, spotting them next to Asclepius she held out a couple of the bottles. Keeping the remaining bottles close to her chest so they wouldn't fall.

Looking down at her feet she fiddled them about before speaking, "We probably shouldn't stay much longer... As long we're all ready go to." 

[careymulligandaily]

Carey Mulligan photographed by Erik Madigan Heck for W Magazine | February 2014

[outcasted-goddess]

Ceto gently kneeled down with concern. She did not know the woman who was perched against one of the large rocks, but she was hurt and if she was on her seas, she was Ceto’s responsibility. She shushed the frail woman before her and shook her head, ignoring whatever explanation she’d tried to give. It wasn’t important. 

The deity caught eyes with her and smiled, making sure she was indeed okay. Ceto did not say anything at first, only gentyl holding the girl’s arm and placing a hand over the wound. Slowly, the water in her hands made contact with her wounds and took away most of the damage leaving a small temporary scar. She looked up and nodded. “I can’t heal it fully, my abilities do not go to that extent but for the most part, yes, I can.” She paused for a bit. “Ceto.” She simply replied, not explaining further on. 

[peaceofeirene]

She worked on calming her nerves. She had already made a fool of herself in front of her, the peacekeeper would try to keep from making her impression on the woman any worse. Eirene fell silent as she watched the goddess begin to work on her wound, the water flushing over her wound leaving behind little more than a small scar. She gasped mesmerized by the now blood riddled water. It never failed to amaze the peacekeeper the power of the beings that graced this earth. Gods, creature and humans alike.

Eirene returned a grateful smile, shaking her head she spoke, "This is more than anything I could have asked for. Thank you." Instantly the personification recognized the goddess' name, knowing her to rule over all the sea creatures and to be an ally to her uncle. Eirene sighed in relief, not only of the pain but to being in the company of someone she could trust. She bowed her head in respect, "And I am Eirene, I cannot express my gratitude enough." She rose to met Ceto's eyes, a smile on her lips. Eirene had heard of the goddess glad to finally make her acquaintance. 

[eighthwondcr]

overturned nature ; cerynitis & eirene

[eighthwondcr]

Although Cerynitis could identify nearly any spirit, deity, or monstrosity from Olympus or Tartarus, it was only a skill garnered from the many years she had lived. Within those centuries, she had stumbled upon nearly all of them at least once. But identifying and acknowledging were rather two separate things when it came to Cerynitis and those around her. Her greatest friends were animals of various forests, not those with ichor running under their armoured flesh. But if there was any she recognized with at least a small measure of glee - besides her mistress - it was Eirene. The spirit of peace had always been kind to her, and nearly always carried an apple with her. The latter was what had drawn Cerynitis to her originally, but over time, she had gotten decently used to the spirit’s presence.

She did not flinch from the touch of Eirene’s warmed arms, nor move into it. But allowing her to touch her skin was enough of a trophy in itself, for Cerynitis was often loathe to let anyone close enough for such things. She generally preferred being out of arm’s reach. “Only fruit, but little of it,” She admitted with a dull wince. “The branches are going rather scarce.” Her hands remained awkwardly clamped in the position they had been before Eirene took the bottle, waiting for it to be returned to her. She nodded at the response. Yes, thumbs. She had to get used to those. “I wanted to see the streets. What they looked like.” Perhaps survivors had been what Cerynitis had been seeking subconsciously, but she couldn’t be sure. “I… felt strange seeing a body. A human body. Dead.” She admitted, brows slightly furrowed at the perplexing reaction. “Am I sick?” She turned to Eirene with earnest concern, for she did not know what it was to be ill with this body.

[peaceofeirene]

The peacekeeper sighed in relief, sending pulses of tranquility throughout the young looking girls frame. It would be best for the girl to remain calm and dart off to some unknown area. Where real harm could befall her. The creatures that roamed the streets were cunning and pure evil, and wouldn't hesitate in ending her life regardless of her clear worth. Over the years Eirene recognized that she loved the doe, and her sweet evasiveness. The doe's demeanour was strong and had all the right survival skills this much Eirene knew, but it did little to deter her from worrying. 

Eirene's head fell, she knew the food situation was only getting worse. It had long been on her mind, how would anyone manage. Even Eirene had eaten little electing to allow others to eat in her place, in all honesty she hasn't felt hunger for a long while. "I have some foods I can share with you, I had brought them with me in case I found some one in need." Her brow furrowed, there wasn't anything on the streets to see except death. Something both Cerynitis and herself had now learned the hard way. Eirene tried to muster up a comforting smile, recognizing the root of the doe's problem. "I'm sorry you had to see that dear, but I think you're just feeling a bit of shock. You'll feel better after you get something in your stomach." Eirene looked around them, disliking how far out in the open they were. Her arm fell to grab the girls hand, "Come, let's find somewhere to sit."

[peaceofeirene]

Giving is Easy || Asclepius & Eirene

[iswearby-the-physician-deactiva]

Asclepius took a large bite from a fig and idly chewed it as Eirene went in search for meats. He laughed and almost choked on the fig as Eirene knocked her head diving enthusiastically at the sight of something. She produced some salami and mocked him for his taste in food, he just laughed more and ate the rest of the fig quickly, licking the juice from his fingers. He was now looking on the lower shelves.

"Ooh that sounds good," Asclepius was wondering where they could find a wince cellar, he crouched down and pushed aside some gross baskets of greens,"Sounds like we should find and raid a wine cellar somewhere! That doesn’t sound like a child friendly activity though."

Eirene put down the jars and meat and left in some excitement over finding water. Asclepius found a wheel of cheese still in it’s box and wax. Salami, cheese and olives weren’t to odd a mix. If they did find wine they would have a decent platter going on.

Asclepius got another bag and filled it with the jars and meat Eirene had left on the side and then took another jar of figs he saw pushed against the wall. He hung the bags on the crook of his arm as he fished out another fig before putting the jar away so he wouldn’t eat the whole thing. 

"Actually if they were left open it can spoil," Asclepius took a bite of the fig," Rats could’ve crawled over it. Got droppings in it… Found some cheese."

Asclepius stood by the doorway and watched Eirene searching. The sudden search and idle chat was a welcoming break from the mess going on outside. His peacefulness was momentarily interrupted by his own thoughts - wondering how many other people had to resort to rooting around in abandoned in restaurants and shops. He decided to leave Eirene to it before she would notice his slow shift into a more solemn mood, “I’ll go see if the kid likes figs.”

[peaceofeirene]

Eirene joined the healer in laughter, genuine as far as she could tell. It seemed almost surreal that the two were in an abandoned restaurant scrounging for food to tide the three over. Eirene didn't even feel hungry, she just wanted to make sure her companions felt able to make the journey.  A pang of guilt ran through her small frame, she wondered how many others were doing the same. She shook her head pushing away the thought, they weren't here looking solely for themselves. They wouldn't indulge--even if Eirene had joked about it--they would save as much all they could for the other refugees. 

"I don't think we will have to worry too much about the child, seeing as the likelihood of us finding wine cellar seem quite slim." Eirene smiled a little bigger, "Although I definitely wouldn't be opposed to it." Shrugging she continued with her task, dismissing the idea almost as quickly as it came to be. 

The personification cringed at the idea of finding droppings or worse over rats near the most important part of their potential meal. But she made sure to keep that in mind while she searched through the mostly empty cabinets. Her gratitude for the healer surged, she was not sure what she would've done without his extensive knowledge. Shame washed over Eirene as she thought of how easy her life had been tucked away with the gods in Olympus. Never before did she have to take in these sort of considerations, the gods were known for their love of the excess and along the way it seemed to have rubbed off on the peacekeeper. 

She looked approvingly at the wheel of cheese, "Looks like luck is on our side," Eirene mused. The cheese was untouched which was a pleasant sight for the personification. They almost had all the food groups, which would be good for the youngest of their group. Her brow furrowed, biting for lip she tried to distract herself with her search for water. Which had been fruitless thus far, cabinet after cabinet all she found was cleaning supplies and other non edibles. 

When Asclepius announced his departure, Eirene nearly started after him but after seeing the man's expression decided against it. She said nothing but did watch as he took his leave, not voicing any inkling of concern. Sighing she turned back to her task at hand, but after checking all the cubbies there was little else she could do. Desperately she glided over to the sink an vainly opened the tap. But nothing other than the sputters of struggling pipes and a small trickle of residual water procured.

Sighing heavily she leaned against the sink, closing her eyes trying to keep her emotions at bay. Their journey would depend heavily on her finding drinkable water. She wandered about until she happened onto a dimly lit hallway she had not noticed earlier. Putting her hand to the wall she started cautiously until she found a stack of cases hidden behind a pile of light boxes. She was elated besides a dust layer building the plastic seemed to be in perfect condition. She grunted as she lifted one of the cases, sending dust motes flying all around her. As quickly as she could she went out into the front room with a smile stretching from ear to ear. 

She hastily put down the case, tore at the plastic and pulled out three crystal clear bottles. She opened one handing it to the girl as she kneeled. She handed another to the healer, casting worried eyes at Asclepius. 

[eighthwondcr]

overturned nature ; cerynitis & eirene

[eighthwondcr]

Normally, green was a pigment Cerynitis cherished. It represented the world she had long called her home; the flora she had hid under when the rains poured cold, the grass she nibbled when fruit ran dry. And she had never seen her own reflection, save for the cool autumn streams she peered into when thirsty. But could she be brought to a reflective surface now, told to bring up her long lashes and peer into her own mirage, even Cerynitis would concede that she looked… not right. Turns out, as lovely as green was, it did not suit a mortal form.

The voice was soft and thick, not unlike the juice of a fruit, and it received Cerynitis attention quickly. Although she had been given a new form, her reflexes were always that of her true persona. Slightly wary to the possibility of a newcomer, she was relieved to see Eirene, a kind soul who had always been sweet to her. “Eirene,” She greeted with a mannered dip of her head, one hand coming to rest on her stomach. With little real consideration, she leaned closer to the personification, who oozed something not unlike warmth. “Water?” She blinked, reaching out and taking the bottle. “What are you doing here?” She questioned with a wobbling voice while determining how exactly to open the container.

[peaceofeirene]

The personification stayed as still as possible. The girl before her appeared human but Eirene knew better. She was the prized doe the spirit had spent many warm spring days feeding and admiring. But she also knew the girl for being a quite excitable and that a wrong move made by Eirene would result in the girl bolting. Although the peacekeeper would like to think they've developed a bit of a friendship it's hard to know for sure when the friend has been a doe for the majority of their time together. 

Eirene greeted the girl with a soft smile. She stepped forward when Cery recognized her, bowing her head accordingly. Further concern washed over the woman as it became clear the doe was ill. Eirene wrapped her arm around the doe, "Yes, water. Is it your stomach that's bothering you, what have you eaten?" The peacekeeper grabbed hold of bottle's lid and twisted it off, "Just like that, use your thumbs." Eirene held onto the lid. "Checking for survivors, taking them to Katerini. And you? You're far from home." Eirene's eyes fell, saddened by the likelihood that this war had left not a single soul in peace. 

[peaceofeirene]

Giving is Easy || Asclepius & Eirene

[iswearby-the-physician-deactiva]

Eirene followed him into the kitchen and he smiled at her look of disgust as she saw the contents of the pot. 

"Well it depends what they’ve got," Asclepius opened a few cupboards but was only finding pots and pans,"Ice-cream and dairy is probably a no… Some meats might be fine if there the cured ones."

He quickly gave up with the food and began to search for a bag. He rooted around some more before finding some take away boxes and carrier bags squirrelled away under the counter.

Asclepius moved away from the cupboards which proved foodless and began to open some of the bags. He then followed Eirene and saw the jars. With some excitement he picked up two jars hidden at the back: preserved figs and some olives.

"I am an old man at heart!"  he stuffed the jars into the carrier bag and then opened another and passed it to Eirene,"The kid will probably hate these."

[peaceofeirene]

The spirit's face furrowed pensively, their options quickly depleting as they went over the safe foods. "Cured... so like pepperoni sticks, would a restaurant even have those?" Eirene fell into a pout, she deliberately scanned the shelving desperate not to lose hope. Her hand trailed behind her, tracing the valleys and textures of the inedible food. Her eyes fell on a large piece of seran wrapped red. Her face brightened, she dove in knocking the top of head on the shelf above. 

A quick chuckle escaping as she pulled back salami in hand, only to be accentuated by the enthusiasm the healer held over the jars. Smiling she took the jar, she retorted "Hate to be the one to say it but Asclepius you are an old man. Despite your youthful appearance." Then she took a bite of fig, before gesturing to the roll in her hands. She chewed as fast as she could before speaking again, "I found this, this really makes me want to have a cheese platter though. Oh and wine." The spirit sighed longingly, desperately she mused. "Isn't cheese supposed to get better with age, cellars and plenty of other things I'm not too clear on." 

"Oh! We need water, that doesn't go bad." Eirene scurried away but not before putting down both the jar and salami in search of the bottled beverages. 

[poseiidone]

He immediately felt guilty when she began to end their conversation. He hadn’t meant to not give her his full attention, it was just something he couldn’t afford now. The days of talking for hours over nothing were done. Vowing to be better, even if just for the last few moments, he regarded Eirene carefully, meeting her eyes to answer her. 

"One of them, yes. The other acts unreachable. I think you can discern who is who. But we won’t be coming together as brothers again anytime soon. Quite frankly both parties are being exceptionally childish."

[peaceofeirene]

Eirene brightened as best she could, in an attempt to counteract the guilt that had washed over her uncle. She had not meant to make him feel like so, but instead relieve him of a voice among the many that likely clouded his thoughts. The spirit nodded not at all surprised by his answer, centuries passed and Eirene still felt disappointed by the lack of camaraderie that brothers had. "Indeed I can, it's a shame really. I suspect if they had been able to put aside their differences the three of you could of founded a much different world. Alas there is changing the past, just bettering the future." She reached out, gave the god a quick squeeze of the hand, and started on her path once more. "Until next time I suppose, take care."

[eighthwondcr]

overturned nature ; open

When she had been only a doe, humans had been strange, pale beasts riding atop majestic stallions, with harsh voices and an eye for her pelt. They were creatures she met with often, but never attached too - hence, when Hades brought his war upon the mortals, Cerynitis had not imagined herself greatly impacted. Her allegiance was to the Olympians, and she found no pleasure in seeing humans die… but she had never before had a great attachment to them.

And yet, after a brisk walk around the streets of a crumbling city, Cerynitis was left feeling… odd. She was like them now - at least in form - and finding a blackened, charred mortal on a street corner had left her wobbling uncertainly. Her stomach churned as if Hephaestus was mixing metal within its linings, liquified steel threatening to pour up her throat and spill out her mouth. It was a foreign feeling, and she did not know what would remedy it, if anything. However had the mortals survived so long, with susceptible bodies like this?

"I am unused to this form… It feels… strange…"

[peaceofeirene]

The personification had been searching the streets for signs of life, lately she had been taking it upon herself to help escort the wounded, afraid or just tired humans to the refugee camps in Katerini. She had already been through the city previously but she still held out hope she'd find more souls to help.

That is when she spotted her, walking with little certainty. Eirene sprang into action stepping cautiously her arms reaching outwards, fearful that at any moment the blonde would collapse. But she did not dare touch her, not without first making her presence noticed. "Cerynitis?" Eirene was worried the shapeshifter looked green, her natural glow hindered by the clamminess of her skin. Slowly she reached into her satchel, and pulled out one of the many bottles of water stuffed into it. "Come darling, you'll want this."

[peaceofeirene]

Giving is Easy || Asclepius & Eirene

[iswearby-the-physician-deactiva]

Asclepius burst into laughter at the thought of the “tougher” Gods in the “Camp Gods” shirts - in light pastel colours of course. Eirene tried to stopped her giggling so Asclepius calmed himself down to silently smiling and laughing under his breath. Eirene briefly touched back on the more depressing truth of ignoring each other leading to this bloody mess in the first place, Asclepius could only nod in reply.

"It wouldn’t be a  burden at all," Asclepius deliberated for a moment, Olympus would be a much safer place but sometimes the amount of care the Gods had for humans was abysmal,"Katerini sounds best for her, it won’t be as pleasant as Olympus but I think she’d do better with some other people. She’d be a main priority in the camp, I don’t think Gods will be as fussed about looking after a lone child…"

Asclepius watched Eirene stand up and dust herself. It was a small movement but incredibly showing of her character, even in this mess she was still keeping herself tidy.

"We can have a look," Asclepius got up from his chair a few seconds after Eirene. He made is was over to the counter,"I am getting hungry actually. Good call Eirene!"

He added the last bit as he went straight into the kitchen. It looked abandoned mid-day. A pot was sat on the stove with a festering soup inside, there was even a speck of orange mould,”Hopefully there will be something that isn’t growing into a new life form.”

[peaceofeirene]

"Thank you! But so we don't tire you out we'll take turns. That way everything is fair, besides it's just nice to have some living company." The offer had taken the spirit by surprise, she had not expected Asclepius to make such a generous offer. She almost felt as though she was taking advantage of the demi-god, but figured if he was really bothered by it he wouldn't offer. 

Laughter fell from Eirene's lips as she watched the demi-god perk up at the sound of food. It was amusing how quickly the man had gotten out of his chair and entered the kitchen forgoing the door that lead them into the kitchen. She followed after him, but not before checking up on the girl--adjusting the cloth that covered her while she slept. She decided against using the counter as Asclepius did, but instead found the nook that allowed her access to the kitchen. 

As she approached she heard him chime out about new life forms, and cringed at the thought. There really was no telling how long ago the restaurant had been abandoned, as she drew closer she replied "Hopefully, that wouldn't be of much help to any of us. Perhaps preserves would be a better route then?" Eirene quickly glanced at the pot Asclepius stood over, spotting the inspiration for his previous thought. After making a face she strode to the large white door at the back of the kitchen, with a pop of suction the large surprisingly heavy door open to reveal a puddled room of shelves filled with various wilting produce and boxes. 

Before stepping in she called back, "How long do you think this food keeps? ...It's kind of wet in here, careful." Eirene immediately began digging through the boxes finding various half frozen foods. "We'll need a bag as well..." The spirit mused quietly, she continued along the aisle noting the various jars of foods. 

[poseiidone]

He regarded his niece through different eyes, now, the eyes of someone who did not consider himself responsible for the safety of those he cared for. If Poseidon had remained her favourite uncle [he was fairly certain he was her favourite, how could he not be with those two fools he had for brothers?] he would have been tempted to tell her to stop, flee for Olympus, be selfish for once in her life. The true injustice was to see Eirene, and those with like her, without a malicious thought in them, suffering.

For the thousandth time in few days, he wished he controlled more than what he had and could bring Zeus and Hades, idiotic, selfish brats that they were, kin or not, to their knees and force them to behave. This war had gone on long enough. 

Something within the god snapping, he straightened his drooping stance and lay a hand on Eirene’s shoulder, wishing he could be the one to deliver her peace. “You’re doing the right thing. I’m proud.” It was better to encourage her than not, he knew well enough what those who took away what she loved had done to them. More than anything, there was nothing he wanted less than Peace’s pity.

[peaceofeirene]

Eirene could not be sure what was going through the god's mind only that he was determined. Just as she hoped she seemed, there was nothing more the peacekeeper wanted than to be of more use to the gods. While she could not stand the thought of hurting a being, one; who was malicious in thought and action would have to be put down. Didn't they? Eirene shivered, disappointment grew within her. Even the thought of killing another being sadden her, no matter how much they may deserve it. 

She took comfort in the man's touch, his reassurance comforting. Still, he seemed so far away. She had been wrong to interrupt him regardless of her intentions. He was necessary, useful, far more than Eirene at this moment. Yet the peacekeeper took up his time, she patted his hand before looking up him. "Thank you. But I see you are busy, there is still much for you to do. Just one more thing, and then I will let you carry on." Nervousness took over as Eirene tried to pluck up the courage to ask, "Have...-you spoken with them?" 

[peaceofeirene]

Giving is Easy || Asclepius & Eirene

[iswearby-the-physician-deactiva]

"it’s not pure cowardice …" Asclepius shook his head,"No it’s just cruel."

He let Eirene continued talking after the next sentence that left her lips Not everyone can be fixed. He let her carry on speaking without interruption. As she mentioned his use of his ability, well, he was at a loss. It was blatantly obvious that he just got worse the more he used it but what would be the point of being able to heal if he couldn’t use it!

"See," Asclepius grinned, a genuine yet slightly delirious smile,"I am king of those who can’t be fixed." He suddenly felt like a burden but at the same time found he was just finding it funny that he’d even attempted to get help from Eirene. But - no time to be sad no time to wallow -  without even a breath he swiftly continued, now replying to the second half of her talking, glossing over her mentions of his powers: “What we all need is a weekend team building retreat!” He laughed at the mental images of the Gods getting together to build crappy towers out of newspaper and then attempting the fall backwards trust exercise. He imagined even that would end in bloodshed with the Gods involved,”In all seriousness, what we desperately need is some peace. Or even just to leave each other alone. Taking it out on the human’s like you say is cowardice.”

Eirene would be useful even if the fighting had only been a war of words, probably more so. Asclepius only became useful after some serious injury.  If only he could go back to sneaking into hospitals and just healing some random strangers.

"As long as she needs," Asclepius looked over at the little girl,"I can carry her again when you want to get moving. Let her sleep till Olympus! It’d be like waking from a terrible nightmare is she sleeps till she is safely tucked away up there. Do you know who shes going to be looked after by?"

[peaceofeirene]

The embodiment was taken aback by the shift in Asclepius' mood, he was finding more and more humour in their conversation. Not sure what to make of it, Eirene decided it would be best to play along. All this morose talk was getting dreary and not helpful to either one of them. What had he really meant by being the king of the unfixed, wasn't he meant for fixing? She did not see the humour nor the truth behind calling the demi-god as such. But before she could say anything he continued and Eirene could not help but laugh, "How absurd! We'd need far more than a weekend, believe me I've tried. Although I've never tried implementing matching t-shirts. Maybe that's the secret to team work, cotton shirts that say 'Camp Gods' on them. " 

Eirene muffled her giggles with her hand trying to bring herself back from the delusion Asclepius had planted. A small smile still fighting to exist she nodded, Eirene was never against peace... naturally. "Leaving each alone is only a temporary fix, this war is the ultimate proof of it. Though I'm not fool enough to believe I know what the fix is..." She bowed her head, ashamed of her helplessness. "I do suspect it would require certain gods putting aside their pride." She sighed at the improbability of it all.  

"Would you really? I don't want to put you out, I don't want to burden you any further." Grinning Eirene thought the idea wonderful, "I don't think any girl would mind waking up there. I know I don't." Biting her bottom Eirene suddenly felt silly, would anyone care for the girl? "I--hadn't actually given that much thought. I just thought it would be the safest. I don't think many would volunteer to care for her, or even allow her to stay. Perhaps the refugee camp at Katerini would be best?" Turning to face the demi-god truly needing his consult, "At least there she will be other humans?" Eirene's brow furrowed although it most definitely was not as nice. 

Standing up from her seat, she vainly dusted off her gown not making much difference in it's appearance. "If we're going to leave anytime soon, we should at least try and find some food for the travel. And perhaps even the refugees... Given that there is any at all." The state of the restaurant gave the spirit hope that it had not yet been fully ravaged. 

[coypatalagsa-deactivated2014110]

Don’t ever mistake my silence for ignorance, my calmness for acceptance, or my kindness for weakness.

Anonymous 

[peaceofeirene]

Giving is Easy || Asclepius & Eirene

[iswearby-the-physician-deactiva]

Defence mechanism - stifled a laugh at the very thought but instead covered his mouth in an attempt to look as though he were deep thought. The last thing he wanted to do was laugh as Eirene was being so kind. But losing his mind was hardly the best defense mechanism. He found himself annoyed at his own unconscious mind if that were the truth of the matter. And besides- he had been like this before the ‘war’. It just gotten worse.

He fell once again into a more solemn state of thinking at her last few words you care. Way way way too much was Asclepius (mental) response.

Asclepius perked up slightly as Eirene began to speak about herself. Asclepius was at a sudden loss to what to say to her. It was unfortunately true her words could do little to help. He did not want to lie to her but neither did he want to insult her.

"You are literally the embodiment of the exact opposite of everything going on, it’s understandable to feel out of place," Asclepius smiled at her and sat up straight," we’re in the same boat with that."

He considered completely ignoring her comment about her words but that was her big issue. Asclepius wished her words were more useful and his healing.

"The blades of the enemy are my exact issue, funny how all they need to do is attack and slice away. It’s much easier to pull things apart than put them together again," Asclepius looked over to the sleeping child. Thinking that avoiding Eirene’s gaze may make it easier to reply with some honesty, "I don’t feel their is much either of us can do. Your words my magic fingers can’t do that much. But you’re important. You gotta stick through this, once the olympians win they’re going to need you to help piece everyone back together."

Asclepius began to form his own worries together better as he spoke, he began to reailse his insignificance in the grand scheme of things. As a demi-god he could hardly do much but Eirene - Eirene would be important, if he could even help her a little bit he’d have done some good with this chance meeting for at least one of them. Two including the little girl. She stirred slightly in her sleep.

[peaceofeirene]

There was not much else Eirene could do for the troubled man, just grab at assumptions, guesses. She could only feel what he felt, she did not have the healing he did. Nor did she have any knowledge of the topic as sensitive as his. She would have to do the same as she has for the past few weeks, just help soothe. Eirene couldn't stand just how useless this war has made her, she wondered how much longer she could go on the way she has.

Eirene reached over and patted Asclepius' hand, bearing a sympathetic smile--the best she could do after all. Eirene decided she would try and try again until she got it right, there was a solution for the demi-god she just didn't have it yet. "I see your plight Asclepius, I am more than willing to help you in whichever manner you need. Perhaps a break is needed, you can't help others, if you don't care for yourself." Eirene avoided the man's gaze, unsure of how he would react. 

It was true some many others were now out of place, without homes or places to consider safe. "We are, but how do I stop this from happening? Not just from myself, but from everyone who feels as I do. How do I help you?" Eirene could feel herself getting desperate, it was uncomfortable for the woman. A feeling unfamiliar to her, but she consciously worked on keeping a calm exterior. 

"A coward's game. It's harsh, but I do not think it any less true. Preying on the weak and breakable is not brave or just or anything to be proud of." Eirene peeked over to the demi-god, noting that he too avoided her gaze. Her eyes fell on her hands, her nerves trembled. "Not everyone can be fixed..." Taking a deep breath inwards she continued, "It's horrible. That the best we can do and it's not enough. But that won't deter me, nor should it you. Though perhaps you should be weary of how much you exert your powers." She remembered his fathers own plight, and wondered if that was any indicator for Asclepius' own turmoil. Eirene turned to fully take in the demi-god who continued to avoid her gaze, suddenly she understood he knew more than he letting on. Dropping her gaze, she avoided mentioning the topic. Aware it was not her place, it never was. She could only hope he would consult his father before it was too late.

"We're all important in this fight, no one being more than the other. This battle will be won with unity." This was something Eirene believed in more than anything else, the gods would need to put aside their differences and end this needless bloodshed. Everyone of them would be instrumental. They were all here with a purpose. 

Eirene had nearly forgotten the girl, but as sleep induced murmuring joined their chatter she wondered out loud. "How long should I let her sleep?"

[star-bright-maia-deactivated201]

Maia nodded obediently as Eirene spoke. The words made sense to her, even if they weren’t something she would enjoy. Everyone had to be more careful now, but with someone as scatterbrained as she was, distractions were everywhere. Even as the personification spoke, she found herself looking around the area, wondering what would be behind the next pile of rubble or if she could find anything interesting inside it if she were to look. At least if nothing else, she could run away if she had to…if she was lucky. It was strange, being so concerned about her survival, something she had never even thought of before as she resided in the safety of the stars. 

Her lips parted to answer the question, a simple one, but again something she had never thought over before they slowly shut again and she frowned, looking down at the rock she was seated upon. “I…I don’t know.” The carnage of the war already made her sick to her stomach and she had to fight back tears almost every time she walked among it. Would she kill or fight if she could? No. No, she wouldn’t. It may have been unfair, to complain about not being able to do anything when she also wouldn’t be willing to fight. Slowly she shook her head, picking at the rock with her nails. “No. I don’t think I’d make much of a fighter, even if I could. I don’t want to fight. I…I just want it all to stop. All the fighting and pain, I just want it to go away.” 

Tears pricked the corners of her eyes as she spoke and she wiped them away with a small sniffle before looking back to the woman. “But I don’t have much…if any medical knowledge that could help. And I’m not very strong.” A small smile reappeared at her claim, but Maia still shook her head, looking down bashfully. “But…I have other sisters. They would take care of things. Thank you for the thought though. I don’t think I’d like to die. I’d miss everything too much. And there’s still so much more for me to see. No, I really don’t think I want to die.” She paused for a moment before looking over at Eirene with a bright smile. “But you can’t either, okay? I like you. You’re pretty and really nice.”

[peaceofeirene]

The personification wrapped an arm around the goddesses shoulder, resting her head gently on Maia's. "Of course you wouldn't, nor would I. But I believe it is a question we must ask ourselves now. I'm sorry to have done so... I fear the day our choice gets taken from us."

"We will stop the fighting, I don't know how or when. But this aimless war will come to an end. We'll make it go away." It was unfair of Eirene to bring such sadness to her mind. This is something she recognized and decided she would amend. "Nor do I, but it is the thought that counts. It is the unified effort and love that can really make all the difference I think. Sure we need skills on the battlefield and other. But we also need support, and that from a kind heart has no comparable measure."

Her heart fell seeing the goddess wipe away tears Eirene had been to blame for. This is not what the embodiment was meant to do, she was meant to keep those she cared about at peace and in happiness. "Yes you do, but none are you--now are they? And I most certainly would not wish it either. We have far too much to learn about one another to be stopped by a force such as death." Eirene grinned, she looked forward to a day when this war would be far behind them, not forgotten but conquered. The embodiment kissed the girls forehead, she would do everything to make Maia's wish of peace come true. "Of course, we will both keep safe. You are very sweet, I will keep you in mind whenever I need a smile. I like you too dear, very much so."

Slowly Eirene rose, "But I believe it is time for myself to continue." Looking over that Maia she smiled, and leaned forward to give the girl another hug. "Take care, we shall meet again once more."

[wolfvishlupin]

Remedy

[wolfvishlupin]

Calliope glanced up at the goddess and smiled brightly. “Is that right.. right, wrong? In between.” She squeaked out and ran her fingers over the objects sitting nicely on the table. “Feather of a raven.. Ravens can be fearsome but bring luck to those who wish. Do you wish for it?” She asked curiously. “I do.. and oh dear I’m looking for the answer to the poem, more like a riddle now. Poems, can be riddles and riddles can be poems. How lovely!”

[peaceofeirene]

"Probably wrong, I'd say." Eirene returned the smile before turning back to the feather Calliope now addressed, "Hmm, I didn't know that." She held it further from herself inspecting it more broadly, "I suppose I would like luck, but only the good kind. Though we're on a bit of a bad luck streak right now aren't we?" Eirene turned away from the feather grinning amused by constant dialogue the muse kept. "Oh then I will not be of much help, I can't say I've ever been good with riddles."