Forever Yours: Eros and Psyche pt.3, (pt.2), (pt.1)
Pairing: Eros/Yuchan x Psyche, Hades/Donghun x Persephone
Genre: Greek myth au, romance, angst.
Word count: 4.6K
Warning: none.
Summary: Psyche thought she would die that day, for goddess Aphrodite was jealous of her beauty, and had sent her son to kill her.
My retelling of the Greek myth of Eros and Psyche for the second @acewriters event, âGreco Roman Writesâ.
Psycheâs feet were bleeding by the time she stopped running, and once all her strength was gone, she left herself fall on the ground, not having enough energy to keep crying, though her cheeks were still wet and her throat hoarse from screaming the godâs name. She was far from the palace and not even Daphneâs calls stopped her from running; she felt miserable without Eros, she wanted to apologize and tell him she didnât mean to break her promise, all was a misunderstanding. But he left when she told him about the lamp, when she burned him...
What if he never comes back? Psyche couldnât imagine living without him, not that day not ever. She shrunk in her place and cried again, sobbing desperately and calling for him.
âI told him to kill you and instead he kept you alive.â
Psyche recognized that voice, even after years. she sat up and looked behind her, trembling when she saw the imponent figure of the goddess of love. Aphrodite gave her a look as if she was the most repulsive thing in the world, but the truth was Psyche couldn't care less, she longed for Eros, so she got up with the remaining strength she had left.
âI want to see Eros.â
âYouâre in no position to demand anything. He doesnât want to see you.â
âWhat?â Psycheâs voice broke and her eyes filled with new tears âI want to apologizeâŚâ
âFor breaking a promise? Or burning his flesh?â Aphrodite inquired furious, Psyche winced.
âI want to see him⌠please.â
âI told you: youâre in no position to ask anything, but to obey. You must pay for this.â
âIâll do anything, if you just let me see him.â
âStop being stubborn, child. He is wounded because of you!â
Psyche walked towards the goddess and kneeled in front of her, grabbing her skirt with her fists.
âLet go!â
âI want to hear it from him, if he tells me he doesnât want to see me anymore, Iâll understand, and Iâll never cross in his path again.â
Aphrodite smiled inwardly, knowing her plan was going in the right direction. she shrugged the princess' hands from her and without changing her gaze towards her, Aphrodite spoke.
âI will let you see him, if you complete one task.â
âTell me, Iâll do anything.â Psyche pleaded.
âMy son will have a permanent scar in his flawless skin, unless is treated with a special ointment.â
âWhere can I get it?â
âIt is made with white lilies⌠by the underworld queen.â
âThe underworldâŚ?â Psyche felt as if air was leaving her lungs âthe underworld⌠I canât go there, unlessâŚâ
âUnless you die, yes. What? Is it too big of a task? didnât you say you loved Eros?â Aphrodite snapped impassively âthis is your chance to repent and apologize to him. Sacrifice your life. Go to the underworld and ask Persephone for her special ointment and to accompany you to one of the entrance gates, that way Iâll believe is really the one made by her.â
âHowâŚâPsyche choked on tears again and bit her lips for a moment âhow do you expect me to convince the queen of the underworld to follow me? is not spring yet⌠and Hades, he would never let her come outside⌠there must be another way.â
âThere is no other way. Now go, you have one day. If you fulfill your task accordingly, Iâll tell Eros to come to the gate, so you can see him one last time before Persephone takes you back to her kingdom.â
Aphrodite disappeared and Psyche stayed there with a stray look in her eyes for a long time, until the sun was high up in the sky and it burned her skin. She missed Eros, she loved him deeply and wanted him to be well, more than anything, if she had to die to repair the damage⌠then she would do it. Psyche stood up and started walking back to the palace, not caring her feet were raw and bleeding.
.-.-.-.-.-.-
âDaphne, itâs the princess!â yelled one of the satyrs from the kitchen garden.
The nymph looked up and ran outside. Indeed, Psyche was walking in their direction, through the gardens. She hurried to her side, wincing once she gave a look to her feet and her torn dress. Psyche remained silent and allowed to be led inside the palace, and into the great kitchen, where she sat at the wood table.
âAntero, heath water for a bath and-â
âNo, I have no time to lose.â Psyche interrupted.
âBut princess! youâre hurt and bleeding, let me clean those cuts at least.â
âGive me a knife.â
âWhat are you saying?! What do you want a knife for?â
âI must go to the underworld and ask Persephone to come with me, I have no time.â
âPrincess, youâre⌠youâre not thinking straight, calm down.â
âI need to see him and apologize!â
The nymph dismissed the satyrs and kneeled in front of the princess, taking her hands in hers. She didn't look alright at all.
âPsyche... â
âNo, donât try to stop me. I need to go. He hasnât returned, then my dream is becoming true, he wonât come back, he hates me!â
âPrincess! Hasnât Lord Eros shown his love enough? he will come back!â
âNo⌠his mother came, she told me herself he doesnât want to see me, but I must at least help him heal the injury I inflicted on him. Please, donât deny me my last deed.â
Daphne remained silent and looked at Psyche's eyes; she was broken, but even if Daphne herself couldnât make the princess change her mind, at least she would try to help her friend.
âI wonât lend you a knife.â and lifting her hand before Psyche could protest, she continued âthereâs a cave, hidden in the west forest not too far from here; it leads to the underworld. You can take that road without having to die. Then, you might have a chance to return and clear this misunderstanding with Lord Eros, which, pardon my boldness, I believe itâs all his mother doing.â
âThank you.â Psyche smiled, tears still in her eyes.
The blonde girl forced her to wait so she could clean the blood and the cuts, and moving swiftly through the palace, she brought Psyche her sandals, new clothes and a bag, where she put two silver coins, a well packed piece of lamb meat, a bread loaf and a flask with honey. Then she made her change into one of her white dresses with little lilies embroidered in gold thread in the skirt, since it was the underworld's queen favorite flower. Then the nymph and the princess headed to the forest where the cave was, walking till the sun was almost setting. Once they reached the place, Psyche felt her legs trembling looking at the gloomy and dark cave, but her companion reassured her everything would be fine.
âRemember my lady, give the coins to the boatman for your journey across the river, and once you reach the entrance, give Cerberus the lamb meat and heâll let you through.â Daphne started explaining, making sure Psyche was listening âIf you ask the audience with the queen, it would be easier than to ask for Hades, since she likes outside visitors during her time in the underworld. If she offers you food, donât eat it. Tell her you brought sweet bread and honey instead, she likes them.â
Psyche nodded to all the instructions given, and sighing she hugged the nymph and went ahead, going into the cave.
Soon the darkness surrounded her, but it wasnât like the darkness that hid Eros, this was heavier and colder. She followed the path, stumbling with some rocks on her way, she walked for not knowing how long until a light appeared in front of her; it was a torch. When she approached, the fire revealed a spiral staircase that went down so deep into the earth, the bottom couldnât be seen, even when there were torches along the stone steps.
The journey down was slow and long, but finally, Psyche made it. The stairs ended and the other end of the cave revealed a river current under a strange dark sky, she walked out of the cave and saw the boatman Charon a few meters ahead, dressed in a black robe.
âAn alive human? Are you lost, young girl?â he spoke to her.
âI want to reach the other shore.â
âI canât cross living creatures.â
âIâll pay you, I need to see the queen.â
âThe queen? uhm, must be importantâŚâ he mused between mumbles and rambles âfine, fine, Iâll take you to the other shore if you pay.â
Psyche smiled and handed him the silver coin. The boatman helped her get on the boat, and taking his long paddle, they crossed the still water. When they reached the destination, Psyche got down and thanked the boatman, and then she followed his instructions to get to the entrance gate.
A menacing growl rumbled across the deserted area, and then Psyche saw it, the great dog with three heads was keeping a stone entrance. She approached and the dog moved his three heads towards her, his eyes shining red, but Psyche didnât cower away. Taking the meat out she offered it to him, lowering her head. The dog sniffed the package and took it with his snout, moving aside to permit her free passage. The princess kept walking until a great castle of black stone was ahead, only stopping when one of the guards ordered to halt.
âI wish to speak to the queen. I am princess Psyche of Anatolia.â
Surprisingly enough, they didn't say anything further and one of the guards led her inside the castle. Daphne was right, the queen must really like outside visitors she thought while walking behind the guard. They stopped before an enormous black door and her name was announced on the other side. The door opened and they went in; the hall was even bigger than the door but the colors there contrasted with the rest of the castle for bright blues and greens, gold and pink and many other colors were found in every detail of tapestries hanging from the walls and in the painted murals. Psycheâs heart almost stopped when she saw who was standing ahead, next to the smaller throne; Hades was there too.
Persephone smiled when she saw Psyche, her eyes shining with curiosity and merriness. Her hair was light like wheat in the harvest season and her dress a deep shade of green, her eyes were warm and her smile seemed to light up the room. Hades was⌠he was nothing like people used to describe the terrible god of death; he was a tall man dressed in black, with platinum blond hair and breathtakingly handsome, his skin tanned and his features were perfect in every angle, his eyes were dark but she could notice they shined when he looked at his queen for a second. There they were life and death, existing together.
âWelcome!â greeted Persephone cheerfully âI was expecting one of the gods from Olympus when a visitor was announced, though Iâm surprised by this unexpected visit. I presume you are Psyche then.â
âI am⌠your highness.â Psyche replied shyly, not really knowing how to address her, and less in the presence of her husband.
âWell, I like having company, while my very busy husband does his work.â the queen said, smiling at Hades.
âWhy are you here?â he questioned, lifting an eyebrow. Psyche shunned his gaze and gulped before answering.
âI- I want toâŚ. I want to ask for a favor from the queen.â
âOh? And what favor is that? must be a very special one since you came all the way down to the underworld just to ask.â she said with a soft laugh.
âThere is someone I love and now is hurt because of me. I want to apologize⌠even if he doesnât want to see me again, at least I want to repair the damage Iâve done to him.â
âAnd what does she have to do with your love affairs?â
âDear, please.â Persephone reprimanded him âtell me what can I do to help you. If itâs in my power, I will do it.â
âI burned my loved one, it was an accidentâ Psyche paused, pursing her lips âI was told the ointment made with white lilies by the underworld queen would heal him. Also⌠his mother wants proof that is the real treatment, so she asked me to⌠to petition the queen to accompany me to the surface.â
Persephone gasped and her smile faded. Hades fisted his hands and his eyes burned in fury, he took a step in front of his wife's throne and looked down at Psyche.
âHow dare you to ask that?â his voice was strained.
âHadesâŚâ
âI⌠I wasnât given another option.â Psyche swallowed her tears and dared to look back at him âPlease, itâs my only chance. I want to apologize⌠please!â
âNo.â
âLord Hades-â
âI said no.â he repeated, his voice low and cold.
âLove, calm downâŚâ Persephone whispered to him, approaching to his side and taking his hand âlet me help her. This could be her only chance to apologize to someone she loves.â
âAre you hearing yourself? itâs not spring yet Persephone, you canât remain on the surface at this time of the year. I wonât risk something happening to you.â
âI know.â she said, smiling softly at him and caressing his face âlet me talk to her? Iâll try to make her understand before she leaves.â
The king of the underworld looked at his queen and sighing heavily, he took her hand that was in his face and placed a kiss on her knuckles. He took his leave, since he had a lot of work to do and promised to be back to her as soon as possible. Persephone smiled and told him goodbye. Once he left the room, the goddess approached Psyche and hugged her. The princess felt miserable again, so she cried in the goddess embrace.
âShh, itâs going to be alright. Iâll help you.â
âBut, Lord Hades-â
âHeâs a stubborn man, but I am a stubborn woman too.â she confessed with a giggle âhe can be very intimidating sometimes, but donât worry, he has a warm heart. Heâll understand why I did it.â
âYour highness, I donât know what to sayâŚâ
âYou can start by telling me your story, so I can understand it better. But come, letâs eat first. And call me by my name.â
Persephone led her to a side hallway to the throne room, and after a few minutes they entered a cozy dining room that was connected to a garden. Psyche glanced out there and she saw an olive tree and many white lilies under it. The queen gestured to her side and Psyche sat there.
âWine?â
âNo, thank you, your high- Persephone.â
âThen fruits?â
âYouâre very kind, but I brought bread and honey for my journey.â
âBread and honey? Can I have a taste?â Persephone asked, her eyes shining like a child.
âOf course!â Psyche smiled, and taking out the food, she offered it to the goddess.
Persephone ate happily, mentioning she always missed honey on her time in the underworld, so she was glad to have a little taste then. Later, after Psyche told her story, without mentioning specific details, the queen stood up with a pensive countenance and walked in circles for some minutes. Then she went out to the garden.
âThis and this.â she said, signaling to two flowers and picking them out from the rest âand also that one.â
Taking the flowers in her hand, Persephone mashed them and then walked inside and put them in a recipient, poured olive oil from her tree and with the two ingredients formed a thick mixture that later turned into a refined salve. Persephone packaged in a tiny wood box that had her emblem and gave it to Psyche.
âI saved some for your wound.â the queen mentioned, noticing the bandage in Psyche´s hand. but she shook her head.
âI want to keep it like this, until I meet him again.â
âThen letâs make sure itâs as soon as possible. Letâs go.â
âAre you sure you can come with me? Lord Hades said no.â
âI wonât stay long, only until the mother comes and sees me. Then Iâll come back.â she assured, taking one of her black cloaks and putting it on âby the way, who is this terrible mother? How a princess like you got in trouble with her?â
Psyche winced and felt like crying again, but somehow she felt like she could tell everything to Persephone, she wanted to be honest with her.
âMy loved one⌠heâs Eros.â she confessed quietly. Persephone gaped.
âYouâre in love with him? then⌠youâve seen him! It all makes sense now! quick, we must go at once. Iâll ask Aphrodite to release her son and let him see you.â
ââReleaseâ? But she told me he-â
âDear, I know her. trust me, she is lying. She probably didnât think you would make it this far, least of all alive! But now youâll return alive and with me at your side. Letâs go!â
.-.-.-.-.-.-
Persephone made sure to take a different path from the main entrance to the palace and avoid Cerberus. She paid the boatman and when they were on the other shore, together with the princess she ascended the long way up to the surface. By the time they got out of the cave, the sun was about to set again. The term was about to end. Persephone started feeling dizzy, but she assured her companion everything was fine.
âI canât believe this.â a voice suddenly said.
âLong time no see, Aphrodite.â replied Persephone with a smirk.
âHas she tricked you too to help her? this is ridiculous!â
The goddess of love appeared in front of them and her face was red from fury.
âThe only tricksy one is you. And Hermes too, as I can see he was more than willing to help you this time, was he not?â Persephone pointed to the winged sandals that could only belong to one god.
âI did what you requested of me.â spoke Psyche, taking out the wood box and offering it to Aphrodite âhere is the white lili ointment and here is the queen of the underworld herself.â
âLet him go, Aphrodite, I know you keep your son somewhere so he canât see her.â
âSilence!â the goddess yelled, more furious than before âYou think Iâm afraid of you, child?â she asked, stepping forward and grabbing Persephone by her arm âIâve been here before the awakening of the men on earth, before you were born. Youâre wrong if you believe Iâll do whatever you say, youâre nothing but a spoiled and weak child. Demether should have locked you up better.â
Persephone didnât answer back, but her eyes were fixed on the older goddess. Aphrodite released her and a red mark started forming on the queenâs arm. She took the box from Psycheâs hands and clenched her jaw.
âYou said I could see him if I completed my task. Fulfil your word.â demanded Psyche.
âYouâre right.â answered Aphrodite with a strange calm smile âI also said I would let him see you before she took you back to her realm.â
Psyche couldnât see how or from where the dagger appeared in the goddess' hands, she only felt how the blade pierced her stomach right below the ribs. She couldnât even scream at the sharp pain from being stabbed as it left her flesh as soon as it ripped it. Persephone moved to her side and took her in her arms before she fell on the ground, panicking at the big stain of blood forming on the white dress of the princess.
âPsyche! Psyche!â she called her desperately âHow could you?! youâll pay for this!â
âAnd who is going to make me pay? You? Your husband? youâre fading already.â Aphrodite pointed out, smiling.
Persephone felt her strength leaving her slowly, but she couldnât let Psyche just like that, she didn't want her to die. The queen used her power to make flowers and green grass grow around them, a sign she was invoking life to protect Psyche.
âIâll let him come and see for himself why this is a doomed union. The Oracle was right after all.â
âYouâre despicable!â Persephone yelled at her âhave you not thought the Oracle was referring to you? he loved you and you hurted him by doing all of this⌠heâll hate you forever.â
Aphrodite widened her eyes and shook her head, in denial, and then she jumped into the air and disappeared.
âPersephone, you must go-â
âNo! I wonât let you here alone.â
âItâs dangerous for you, you-â she stopped and winced from pain âLord Hades-â
âHeâll wait for me, he always does. Donât worry, donât speak. Eros will come.â
âItâs too late.â Psyche cried âplease go.â
âHeâll come.â
.-.-.-.-.-.-
Hours later, Hades returned to the throne room and lifted an eyebrow at seeing it empty. He called for his wife but she didnât answer, which was strange. He walked to her private garden, finding it deserted as well. He called her again: no one answered, and for some reason he started to feel uneasy. He went back to the throne hall and at the same time the doors opened and one of Persephone's nymphs entered, followed by his right hand Thanatos.
"My Lord" he bowed, "there's something you should know."
"What is it, Thanatos?"
"One of the gates was trespassed by the mortal Psyche⌠and she wasnât alone."
"What?!" he then realized the situation and his heart froze "Where is the queen?"
Thanatos gestured to the scared nymph, placing a hand on her shoulder so she would speak. She raised her head and shivered when the god's eyes were placed on her own.
"I saw them on their way to the boatman, Lady Persephone wanted to accompany her⌠she went to the gate with the princess."
Hades didn't stay. He stormed out of the throne room, hurrying to the palace entrance. Once outside, his carriage with black winged horses was already waiting. They took off, crossing the lands of the dead fastly, reaching the location of the gate, one of the many that connected the underworld with the living one. He moved his hand and the earth shook and a hole opened above his head, letting him go through it.
The two black pegasus landed on the ground, just a few meters away from the actual tunnel that led to the underworld. He saw her ahead, laying on a circle of flowers that shouldnât be blooming in autumn, helding the mortal woman. The king of the Dead dismounted his carriage hurriedly and kneeled beside his wife and took her shoulders.
"What are you doing here Persephone?! It's not time for you to return yet, you know it's dangerous!"
"I wanted to help her, but now sheâs dyingâŚâ she said weakly and cried.
"You stubborn woman." he said, frowning "let's go back" he tried to stand up, but she shook her head.
"I can't leave Psyche before she meets Eros."
"Don't you understand? If you stay here longer, the tie with the underworld will fade, I won't be able to see you."
The goddess smiled and touched his face gently. Hades knew that smile, that resolve in her eyes. He was doomed to be sundered from his queen in one way or another, he knew it.
"No." He stated firmly.
"Let me stay, he'll come."
"You don't know that. Stop being stubborn."
"If I wasnât stubborn, we would have never been together, darling."
To the people, Hades was a terror. There wasn't a single soul that didn't fear the terrible and cold king of the underworld. He didn't care, he could live with their fear and carry on his duty in a world where there was no light and no rest. He could live like that for ages, because she was his light, a being full of life and colors, unreasonable for the rest of the gods, but perfect for each other. To her, he was kind and loving, a lonely god that fell in love with her just as much as she did with him, she defied her mother and Zeus himself and in the end she managed to stay with him.
âPsyche!â
Both gods looked ahead and there was Eros running to them and keeling on the ground. His arm was still burned and his face was paler than usual. They could see him, as nothing escaped the sight of the gods of life and death. Persephone handed Psyche to him and Eros held her tightly, seeing with horror the blood staining her dress.
"Eros⌠you're hereâŚ" she said tiredly.
" Yes, I'm here. Please, stay awake, we'll go back to our palace. Iâll heal you!"
"I'm sorry..." she apologized, tears falling from her eyes "I'm so sorry I burned you, I'm sorry I betrayed you."
"Shhh, it's alright. It wasnât your fault, you didnât betray me, please stay awake."
Eros lifted his gaze and saw the god of death helding his wife, widening his eyes in horror when he saw her flesh slowly disappearing. She smiled and said ânoâ with her head.
âItâs already done, my love. Iâm fading into nature.â she smiled tiredly.
âNo, no! You canât leave me, you canât!â
"Please forgive meâŚ"
"Don't say nonsense, come, let's go home."
"Find me again, yes?"
"No, you're right here, with me."
"Promise me." she asked, more weakly every passing second "promise me, HadesâŚ"
"I promise..." he replied, his voice cracking "I'll find you again. Please stayâŚ" he begged, resting his forehead on hers.
âEros.â she called for the young god âhere. put this on her wristâ Persephone handed him a bracelet made with tiny white lilies âsheâll be bound to me if she wears it, she wonât die. sheâll fade with me and when weâre healed, weâll come back to the world.â
Eros took it with shaking hands, not being able to retain his own tears, and placed the bracelet in his belovedâs wrist. Psyche smiled at him.
âI love youâŚâ she whispered and started to close her eyes.
"Psyche- Psyche! No,no,no,no!"
The god took her in his arms and started shaking, feeling fear for the first time in his long and immortal life. The auburn haired god held tightly onto her and panic surged in his chest, feeling like he couldn't breathe anymore. He screamed her name over and over, seeing his loved one disappear until there was nothing left of her presence. Eros stayed on the ground a long time and finally, he glanced up, his arms empty and a fire burning in his eyes.
Hades was the same; he only looked at his hands, now empty. Persephone was gone. He stood up and walked to his winged horses, freeing them from the reins to the carriage.
âWhere is your mother? for she is responsible, is she not?â ice in his voice when he spoke.
âAt her palace.â Eros informed, standing up âleave her to me. You should deal with Hermes, he wanted Persephone out of the underworld.â
The older god frowned and his fists trembled in fury. He would take his revenge.
âCome. We canât do anything else than to avenge them⌠and wait for them.â
Eros nodded and mounted the other pegasus. He would avenge Psyche, he would wait for her, even if it took centuries, he would wait and look for her always.
Summary: Psyche thought she would die that day, for goddess Aphrodite was jealous of her beauty, and had sent her son to kill her.
My retelling of the Greek myth of Eros and Psyche for the second @acewriters event, âGreco Roman Writesâ.
âWhat is this nonsense?!â
The scream from Aphrodite was heard across the terrace, her beautiful face twisted in anger and her cheeks turned red, the nymphs and minor deities present shrunk in their seats, only leaving the place when she dismissed them all. Her attention returned to the god in front of her, the frown deep in her skin.
âAre you sure Hermes?â
âI wouldnât have bothered to come all the way here if I wasnât sure.â he responded, taking a sip of wine from one of the goblets in a tray.
âHe disobeyed me!â she yelled again, fisting her hands âWhere is he keeping her?â
âHis palace.â
âI canât go in there. He forbade me entrance once Zeus put the shadow on himâŚâ the goddess said looking to her gardens, remembering that day and his sonâs anger.
âI can take you there. You know the only way in is with wings, and I happen to have a pair of winged sandals.â Hermes smirked. Aphrodite turned towards him and narrowed her eyes.
âWhy would you help me? and why should I trust you, Herald of the Gods? you, who use words and twist them to your own desires and purposes.â
âBecause I also want something in return, Aphrodite. And I happen to be your only available option to punish that girl.â he explained, standing up and approaching the goddess of love âthink about it. Eros is a young god, he probably was seduced by her and led him to disobey your command. She is living like a princess still, no, like a queen! manipulating your son, after she was revered like a goddess and humiliated you. Can you imagine the shame and derision from others at Olympus?â
Aphrodite listened to every word and her anger raised. Despite having been aware of the power of Hermesâ words, she still fell under his spell; she imagined the other goddess laughing and the gods praising Psycheâs beauty more than hers. No, she couldnât bear that scenario.
âAnd what do you want in return for your favor, herald?â she finally said. Hermes grinned.
âSimple. I want Hades to suffer.â he sat again and drank more wine.
âStill resented?â Aphrodite huffed, seating again on her divan âI thought you were over Demetherâs daughter by now.â
âYou see, Aphrodite. Just like you, I was humiliated. Persephone chose that gloomy and lonely god instead of me⌠she rejected me.â Hermes murmured, his eyes shining from anger too.
âThen weâre the same. Very well, Iâm listening, for you have a plan, have you not?â the goddess inquired, crossing her arms on her chest. Hermes smiled again.
âI doâŚâ
.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
The princess listened to the nymph who was singing a merry song. The sun was going down slowly, and it only made her heart content, knowing in a few hours she would be in her godâs arms. She finished another flower crown and ate more grapes before taking her goblet, only to find it already empty.
âWant more wine, my lady?â
âNo, itâs fine. The jug is empty.â
âIâll get you more!"
âDaphne, wait!â
But the cheerful nymph was already sprinting through the flower field, towards the palace. Psyche smiled; she knew Daphne was fast and would be back before she missed her absence. When she leaned on the tree and closed her eyes, a sudden voice made her jolt.
âPsyche!â
Turning around, to where a little forest started, she saw a woman coming out of it, her white dress as neat as she remembered and her smile bright as always had been.
âThalia?â
Psyche ran to her, realizing it was her elder sister. Both girls reached each other and hugged.
âThalia! What are you doing here? How did you even find this place?â
âOh Psyche! Father has been so sad and sick since you left. We thought you were dead, but then, two days ago, one of the wind gods came to the palace and said he saw you, alive! Father wanted to come, but he is old and weak. I came in his stead, and brought you presents.â
The princess smiled and led her sister to the tree, where they sat under its shade and talked for a long time. She didnât even notice Daphne didnât return to her side.
âSo youâre saying you havenât seen his face all this time?â her sister asked in shock. Psyche nodded.
âI agreed with that. And to be honest, I donât care anymore. I love him.â
âBut sister! gods are tricksy, he could be a monster!â
âHe is not. I donât need to see him to know that.â
âPsyche, youâve always been so naive, since you were a kid. Donât dwell here any longer, letâs go back to our palace, father will recover his strength once he sees you.â
âI canât leave him, Thalia.â
âListen to yourself. Youâre here, a prisoner of a faceless god, If he is a god at all. He could be an horrendous creature, like the minotaur in Crete.â
âNo, sister, heâs a god, and heâs good and he loves me.â
Thaliaâs face tightened for a second, and then she smiled.
âLittle sister, I have to return soon. But before I go, would you see the presents I brought for you?â
âOf course.â
âHere, I brought you this magnificent oil lamp made of bronze. I know you hate the darkness.â
âI have grown to love it.â
âBut still! Iâm sure your lover wonât mind you having a craft from your kingdom? You mentioned the darkness around him is Zeusâ creation, Iâm sure a simple lamp made by mortal hands wonât get through the thick shadows that hide him.â
Psyche hesitated to take the lamp, but then grabbed it in her hands and smiled at her sister. The elder woman gave her a bottle with golden oil in it and candle wicks, a pack of lavender to make tea with it and sunflower scent. The sun was about to hide far in the horizon, and the night was near.
âI have to go now. Take care little sister and come visit us someday, if this faceless god approves.â
âThalia! enough, his name is Eros.â
âIâm sorry.â she apoligzed, hugging her quickly and then standing up from the grass âfarewell, Psyche. Iâll tell our sister and father you are well and happy here.â
âWait, how will you come back?â
âThe wind god Zephyrus agreed to bring me here and to take me back. Donât worry, Iâll meet him in the forest clearing. You should hurry inside the palace.â
âBut-â
âWorry not, dear sister. Am I not the eldest? Iâm not afraid to wander alone, even in this place. And the wind god promised to be here, I just donât want to be trouble for you and your husband.â
Psyche blushed at the mention of Eros being her husband, but didnât correct her sister. Thalia leaned over her and kissed her head, patting her cheek gently. She was right, Thalia was always so independent and fearless, unlike her that got easily scared.
âSend father my love.â
âI will. Also, donât mention I was here, Zephyrus said he doesnât want to get in trouble with the gods. And father is too old to be mortified with more irascible deities at our doorstep.â
âI understand, I wonât mention it, though Iâm sure Eros wouldnât mind⌠I hope you can meet him someday.â
âSo do I, Psyche. Goodbye for now, little sister.â
Before she could answer back, the eldest walked back to the forest and waved at her. Psyche smiled and noticed the sun was already gone, the sky getting darker and the evening colder. She took the gifts her sister gave her and hurried inside the palace, only then remembering the nymph.
.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
âAnd?â
âShe was so easy to convince. Sheâs either too stupid, or a good actress⌠saying she loves him, please. You did a good job, keeping the nymph away.â
âIt was a simple task to put her and all the others to sleep.â her companion shrugged.
The woman changed her appearance with a mere gesture of her hand, and soon Thalia wasnât standing on the edge of the clearing, but Aphrodite. Hermes stood in front of her and smirked.
âAll we have to do now is wait.â
âAre you sure your son will leave her?â
âHe will; That lamp was made by Hephastus and the oil cast Apolloâs light, itâll suffice to see through Zeusâs shadow. She will see him and my son will believe she betrayed him.â
âAnd the girl⌠will she obey you?â
âShe wonât have an option. That little manipulative mortal would want to be treated like a queen againâ Aphrodite said, combing her golden hair distractedly âsheâll do anything to get him back, but Iâll make sure she suffers before she dies. I am more worried about the underworld queen.â
âDonât worry about her. Sheâs so selfless she will try to do anything to help Psyche.â Hermes assured, his words said with a hint of hatred, but smiled again in a wicked grin âsheâll give her anything the princess asks.â
âThen letâs go back to my palace. I need to be ready when my son arrives there.â
âAs you wish, oh beautiful Aphrodite.â
.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
âDaphne!â Psyche called again.
The torches were already lit but there was no sign of a single soul in the palace. Psyche hurried to her chamber and left the gifts in one of the tables near the bed, then she went out and headed to the kitchen. There she found the nymph, laying in one of the wood tables near the ovens, and two of Erosâ satyrs trying to get up from the floor. She helped them and looked at them worried; they looked as if they had passed out.
âDaphne?â
âMy lady... Where am I?â
âWeâre in the kitchen, Daphne. You fell asleep, so did them.â Psyche chuckled, pointing with her chin towards the satyrs.
âAsleep? I just came for some wine and thenâŚâ
âDoesnât matter, you were probably exhausted. Go to sleep.â
The nymph frowned, still confused as to why she suddenly fell asleep. Psyche helped her stand on her feet and together they walked the great corridor, saying her goodnites when the way separated in two, one to the nymph's room and the other to the princess and Erosâ room. She walked there, and once inside she changed her dress for a light robe, smiling widely when the darkness descended and the fire extinguished.
She felt the soft breathing of Eros on her neck and leaned her head back on his chest, relaxing in his arms when he hugged her from behind.
âYou seem happy.â he noted, merriness evident in his voice.
âIâm always happy when youâre here, my love.â
âIâm afraid youâll grow tired of me.â
Psyche turned around and grabbed his face, forcing him to lower his head. She pressed her body a little more to his and he rested his forehead on hers.
âDo you doubt me?â she asked.
âNever.â
âThen donât doubt me when I say Iâll never want to be parted from your side.â
They went to bed, the princess feeling tired and curling up her body against his side.
âSleep my love, Iâll be here.â was the last words she heard before falling asleep.
Eros contemplated his beloved princess and he wished she could see him and not just a mass of darkness, but he couldnât change it, unless⌠unless he spoke to Zeus. He loved Psyche, and she hadnât hurt him,which meant the Oracle was wrong, and therefore his mother. Yes, he would speak to Zeus later, at that moment, he only wanted to fall asleep beside her, feeling the warmth of her body, and so he did.
Hours later, Psyche woke up startled by a nightmare. It was a strange occurrence, since she always slept soundly all night when Eros was beside her, but that night she felt the chill of the wind and oddly enough, Eros wasn't lying beside her. It was a moonless night, making the room darker than the nights when the moonlight shone through the glass doors, though not as deep black like when Eros stood by her side.
The princess got up from bed and took the oil lamp, managing to light the wick. The bronze lamp casted a warm golden light that illuminated a considerable distance. Psyche didnât waste time and walked outside the room and through the hallways, but she couldnât see Eros in any of the nearest halls or terraces. Psyche felt anxious, but decided to get back to bed. He probably had to go, she thought.
âPsyche?â
She heard Eros voice calling her from inside the room, which made her smile and hurry her steps to their shared chamber. When the princess walked through the double oak doors, the entire room was lit by the lamp, and then she saw him.
For the first time since she met him, there were no shadows around him, no darkness and vague shapes. No, this time he was standing next to their private terrace, and for a moment she thought she was lost in a dream. He was beyond beautiful; his short and disheveled hair shone like copper, he had round slanted eyes, straight nose followed by pouty lips, a sharp jaw and thick neck. Her sight went further down and admired the wideness of his back and the muscles in his shoulders, arms and chest, where she distinguished two freckles. His hips were surrounded by his short tunic, leaving in sight a part of his thighs and legs. He was perfectâŚ
Psyche hadn't even noticed that she had shortened the distance between them, like a moth attracted to the flame, and now she was standing right in front of him. But when she lifted her gaze to his eyes, she didn't find a happy expression; Eros was in shock.
"Psyche⌠what have you done?"
"I⌠I didn't mean to! I didn't know the lamp would pierce the shadow!" She exclaimed, realizing the situation "I didn't mean to!" She repeated, but Eros took a step back.
"You broke itâŚ" he said, his face showing hurt "you broke the promise you made meâŚ"
"No! Thalia told me it was made in our kingdom, she- she told me- I-" the princess tried to explain, but tears started streaming down her cheeks.
"What are you saying? Who is Thalia?"
"My sister, she found the way in here thanks to Zephyrus, she gave it to me. I swear Eros!" her voice was desperate.
Eros remained silent and frowned, his lips murmuring words Psyche didn't catch nor comprehended. She tried to reach for him and grab his hand, but he jerked when she touched him, causing her to flinch. The lamp in her hands shook and oil spilled from it, landing in her hand. Psyche screamed when the oil burned her.
"Psyche!"
But when he tried to reach for her again, the lamp fell from her hands and hit him in the forearm, thus burning him too. Eros howled and gave a step back, taking his right arm with his left hand. The light extinguished, and the darkness surrounded the room again.
"Eros! Eros I'm sorry!"
"Are you hurt?"
"I burned you! Forgive me, forgive me!"
Psyche was hysterical and didn't seem to hear him. Eros kneeled beside her and took her in his arms, feeling her desperate grasp to his neck and her tears wetting his chest. He avoided being touched in his arm, and despite the terrible pain and the initial shock, he worried about her.
"You're hurt, tell Daphne to treat it. I have to go."
"No! No, please! I'm sorry!" She held him tighter.
"Listen to me!"
The god forced her to let go of him, taking her wrists in his hands. Unlike Psyche, he could see her and in her eyes was a desperate and wounded expression. She was crying and whimpering, almost begging him to stay, but he needed to find out if his suspicions were right; though he had a bad feeling about it, he had to go. Eros leaned and kissed her head, his heart aching when she winced and sobbed harder.
"Wait for meâŚ" he whispered.
"Don't goâŚ"
He released her and stood up. Beating his wings he took off and disappeared into the night sky.
.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Daphne woke up and rushed through the halls when she heard Psycheâs screams. She stopped for a second at the doorsâ frame, but when she saw the princess curled up on the floor she hurried to her side, noticing the floor was wet with a shiny substance and a lamp not too far from her.
âMy lady, what happened? youâre injured!â she said, noticing the burn on her skin.
Psyche didnât resist her help, but also didnât stop crying and calling for Eros, as if she was in a trance and not fully aware of her surroundings nor who she was with. The nymph made her sit on the bed and then she ran to the kitchen and returned as fast as she could. Daphne lit some of the torches, only then she saw Psycheâs skin was pale and her whole being distressed. The blonde nymph applied ointment and dressed her wound and tried to calm her down, only managing when she made her drink lavender tea, though her sobs did not cease completely.
âMy lady, what happened to you? where is Lord Eros?â
âHe left me⌠I burned him, I burned him, he left meâŚâ
âLord Eros would never leave you, princess.â
Psyche sobbed again and the nymph stayed by her side until Psycheâs strength ran out and fell asleep with tears in her face. The princess slept, but her dream was a restless one, and even in her dream she saw Eros, but he despited her. He swore to never see her again and to claim he didnât love her anymore.
The princess woke up at dawn, exalted, and jumped off the bed and started running out of the room, bare footed. Her abrupt movement woke up Daphne as well, but by the time she realized what was happening, Psyche had gone out of the palace, running like she had lost her mind.
.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
The goddess of love beamed when she saw the big wings in the nocturn sky; Eros was coming after all. The young god descended on the terrace, his wings hiding in his back.
âMy son! Iâm so happy to see your face.â Aphrodite stood up and opened her arms to him, but then she stopped on her tracks âwhat is that horrible wound? Who did this to you?â
Eros approached her mother, and she could see anger in his eyes, his beautiful face serious and his jaw tightly clenched. There was a fresh burn in his right arm and the goddessâ fury rose seeing her son wounded. He stood in front of his mother and his breath was laboured, some wisps of his auburn hair sticking to his forehead, but the anger still present.
âWho did this? Tell me and Iâll punish the miserable soul!â
âYou gave her the lamp, didnât you?â
The goddess widened her eyes and froze in the spot. Eros looked at her and he winced from a new wave of pain ripping through his arm all the way up his shoulder. Aphrodite tried to help him walk, but he shook off her motherâs touch and walked by himself to one of the large sofas, sitting with difficulty in the magnificent piece of furniture. The light of the torches revealed the sweat in his face and neck, but also increased the fire in his own eyes.
âYouâre wounded. Here, drink ambrosia and heal.â she said, pouring a glass of the godâs drink in a silver cup, offering it to him.
âAnswer me.â Eros demanded, pushing aside the cup âyou gave Psyche the lamp. It was you, wasnât it?â
Aphrodite bit her bottom lip and looked at her son, but no words left her mouth. Eros huffed, smiling ironically at her.
âShe told me her âsisterâ went to her thanks to Zephyrus, but he doesnât meddle with mortals unless it is required by Zeus himself, and only the work of Hephaestus can resist Apolloâs light. What? You thought I wouldnât notice? You planned this.â he stated, waiting for her mother to speak, but she was silent âwho let you in?â
âEros...â
âWho?!â he yelled angrily.
âDoesnât matter, you canât go back to her now.â
âI will.â he challenged, standing up.
âYou canât. She broke the promise!â
âI knew it. I donât want to see your face ever again.â
The goddess realized she gave herself away and stood up as well.
âI am your mother!â
âYouâre too selfish to be a mother⌠always have been. I spent long years alone and hidden just because of your own fear, and now when I found someone who loves me despite my curse, you try to take her away!â
âI did it to protect you! The Oracle-â
âStop.â Eros ordered, spreading his wings and walking to the edge of the terrace âI heard enough. You decided to trust an Oracle, instead to do your job as a mother and protect me yourself.â
âEros, you cannot change the rules. She broke a promise to a god, she must be punished.â
âCanât you see it? This is not about Psycheâs fault, but yours.â he explained, and his mother opened her mouth to say something, but he interrupted âworry not mother, Iâll talk to Zeus, and instead of her, youâll be the one to be punished.â
The god of love moved his wings and was about to take off, when suddenly his vision blurred and he staggered, feeling like the earth moved. He felt heavy and dizzy and soon his knees gave up, making him drop on the floor, his whole body started to numb, even his wings couldnât move. Eros looked up with difficulty and saw Aphrodite in front of him.
âWha- what you did to me?â
âI canât let you come back. I canât lose you.â
âListen to your mother, kid.â a new voice spoke and Eros could hear steps approaching.
âHermes⌠whyâŚ?â
âSleep. Youâll forget about the princess once this is over.â the herald smiled and squatted to pet Eros' head mockingly, inducing sleep in him.
âTouch her⌠youâre deadâŚâ
âIâm sorry, thatâs not on your hands now. Your mother is really angry at her. Sleep.â
Eros gritted his teeth and tried to fight against the tiredness that was taking over his body, but consciousness was leaving him. He lifted his right hand, trying to grasp Hermes tunic but his fingers were already stiff. He collapsed on the floor.
âShe burned him. That wasnât supposed to happen⌠Iâll make her pay.â Aphrodite said while kneeling by her son, and taking him in her arms.
âThen you know what you must ask her. That way weâll get our revenge.â
âI know what must be done.â she assured Hermes, and then layed her son in a bed, carefully. âGive me your sandals, I have to go and stick with our plan. Keep him safe or Iâll hand you to Hades if something happens to my son.â
âYou have no room to talk, Aphrodite. If I go down, you go with me.â Hermes said with a smirk.
The goddess didnât answer and after the god gave her his winged sandals, she disappeared in the air.
When death embraced life. Epilogue. (pt.2.) (pt. 1)
Pairing: Hades/Donghun x Persephone
Genre: Greek myth au, romance, fluff.
Word count: 691
Warning: none
Summary: He was the ruler of the dead, and she was in charge of living things. He was death, and she was life, and both fell in love with each other.
My retelling of the Greek myth of Hades and Persephone for the second @acewriters event, âGreco Roman Writesâ.
âHades⌠Hades! ⌠Donghun!â
The man watching the tv finally turned around, an innocent smile dancing on his lips as he paid attention to his wifeâs call. She glared at him and put her hands on her hips, pouting at him for ignoring her on purpose.
âYes, my love?â
âWhy didnât you answer back the first time?â
âI like it when you call me by my other name.â he confessed, shrugging, but smiling widely.
She rolled her eyes and approached till she was standing in front of him, blocking the view from whatever show he was watching.
âWhat do you think? Is this ok?â
âDarling, weâre just going for a walk with Cerberus, you donât need to doll up.â he commented, looking at her dress.
âI want to look beautiful for you.â Persephone frowned and pouted.
âYou always look beautiful, my love.â
âDonât give me that! Itâs been so long since weâve been together, and my memories are still a mess, I WANT to be pretty beside you.â
Donghun laughed and pushed his long hair backwards, then he gave a second look at his wife and smiled while standing up. Persephone inspected her short light blue dress, decorated in flower patterns and then felt her husband's arms around her waist, followed by his lips on her temple.
âI told you: you look beautiful.â
She giggled and stole a kiss from him, hearing a second later the bark from their big black dog, already impatient to have his evening walk.
âYes, yes! Iâll hurry! geez, so bossyâŚâ she said, rolling her eyes.
Half an hour later, the couple and Cerberus were walking near their apartment in one of the bigger parks of the area. The sun had already disappeared from the sky, leaving its usual faint glow on the sky before night covered the city. They laughed and talked, following whatever direction the Underworld keeper, disguised as a black doberman, led them to.
After some minutes walking around the area, they noticed an outdoor exhibition, near the main fountain of the park; there were paintings and statues, and the theme caught their attention: greek gods. Perspehone dragged her husband from his arm, stepping closer to look at the works.
âThese are good.â she said, excited.
âYours are better.â he replied, not giving so much as a second glance to the painting she was looking at.
Persephone rolled her eyes, but smiled, ecstatic that he liked one of her works in the modern world. A group was passing by and they could hear a girl explaining the meaning of a very weird looking statue near them.
âAnd this work is inspired by the Rapture of Persephoneâs myth, where she tried to escape Hadesâs grip to prevent him to take her to the Underworld.â
Before he could stop her, the Goddess freed from his arm and walked up to the group of young students.
âExcuse me? I wasnât- I mean, she wasnât kidnapped!â Persephone complained âand this!â she continued, gesturing to the formless esculpture âthis canât be inspired by my story- eh, by the myth, it has no form! itâs just a piece of things glued together⌠ugh, abstract art sucks!â
The girl who introduced the piece lifted an eyebrow and looked at her as if she was crazy, while the other bystanders started whispering to each other, aslo thinking she was insane. Donghun palmed his face and took her by the arm before she could say anything else.
âPlease forgive her, sheâs a classical art lover!â he yelled, already dragging her away from them.
âBut she was lying!â
Hades chuckled and hugged her, succeeding in making her stop her complaints.
âLet them believe whatever they want.â he smiled âwe know the truth, and thatâs enough.â
âYouâre right.â she said, not able to argue that point.
âIce cream?â
âI want choco mint!â
Hades nodded and then Cerberus barked, making them both laugh at his impatience, acting like a common dog who wanted to chase the squirrels at the park.
They didnât need anything else. They were together, as they had promised a long long time ago, always returning to the other.
Warning: suggestive (no explicit scenes). For readers under 18, discretion is advised.
Summary: Psyche thought she would die that day, for goddess Aphrodite was jealous of her beauty, and had sent her son to kill her.
My retelling of the Greek myth of Eros and Psyche for the second @acewriters event, âGreco Roman Writesâ.
The maidens were crying when they finished putting the garments on the princess. She tried to smile brightly for them, but couldnât, only managed a short smile and took the hands of the three women on hers, then she stepped out of her room and was escorted to the entrance of the palace. Her father was there and her sisters, she wanted to cry too, but there was no time for that, she had to go and reach the top of the mount before the day ended.
"Maybe⌠if I build a temple to honor the GoddessâŚ"
"The Oracle spoke to you, father. We cannot go against the Godsâ will. I must go.â
The King of Anatolia wept again and kissed his daughter on the brow, then her hands and helped her step into the carriage, where one of his soldiers held the horses' reins. She covered her head with the veil and bid them farewell.
The small carriage left the palace and soon the city, leaving its walls of stone behind. The journey to the sacred mountain was long, and by the time they reached the highest point, the sun was setting and the air was cold. The princess shivered and accepting the soldierâs hand she stepped on the ground, looking around the lonely area, from where the vast plains and mountains could be seen from that height.
âAre you afraid?â
That wasnât the voice of a man⌠turning around she didnât find her fatherâs General, but a beautiful woman like no other, a golden glow emanating from her body. It took a second for the princess to kneel on the ground and lower her head; she hadn't recognized the goddess during their journey together, but it was common for the Gods to walk among mortals, taking the shape of friends or family sometimes, disguised as the most unimaginable characters on others.
âGoddess AphroditeâŚâ
âI see you remember me now, princess Psyche."
"What do I owe the honor of your presence?"
"Quit it girl. Your mere presence infuriates me enough." she said with anger "but it will not last any longer. You'll die today, and my cult will resurface, my temple will be full of worshipers again."
"It was never my intention toâŚ"
"Silence! It was not your intention, no, but I don't care about intentions but consequences. Men believe you are more beautiful than me, they dared to compare!"
The ground shook under her feet and Psyche curled on herself, lowering a bit more her head, afraid. Aphrodite smiled and combed a wisp of her long golden hair with her fingers.
"No, my dear, it was not your fault to be born beautiful. It was people who sentenced you the day they started to adore you like a goddess when you're a mere mortal⌠I could have killed every single man, woman and children in your kingdom, but I decided to spare them in exchange for your life."
The wind blew again, cold like ice and the princess felt the tears coming down her eyes. There was a second change in the wind direction, and then a soft rustle of feet against the dirt.
"Mother." a male voice spoke, and It was the most beautiful voice Psyche had ever heardâŚ
"Ah, My beautiful son. You're here finally."
"I came as soon as I could. What is the important task you want me to carry through, mother?"
"You shall kill the princess Psyche, the mortal whose beauty was compared to mine. Kill her for me my son, and then throw her into the ocean, where the beasts of Poseidon can feed on her flesh."
"I will mother."
The goddess smiled and looked at Psyche one last time, before disappearing in the air, a strong fragrance of roses left behind. The god, for it was obviously a god who was about to kill her now, started walking towards her and the princess cried but didnât dare to move.
âClose your eyes.â
âPleaseâŚâ
âClose them.â he repeated, softly.
She did and heard the footsteps approaching until he was in front of her. Psyche shivered when he crouched and lifted the veil from her face, revealing her tear-wet features. He hummed and didnât make another sound in a long time. Then he wiped her tears and the princess jerked, scared, her eyes still shut tightly.
âI wonât hurt you.â
âLiar. Your mother told you to kill me, you will kill me...â she said, thinking her disrespect towards Aphrodite's son couldnât add more misery to her fate.
âI wonât. Trust me.â
âWhy should I?â
But he didnât speak more to her. The princess felt her eyes being covered with a silky cloth and strong hands helping her to stand on her feet. Then he took her in his arms and she heard the beating of wings.
âHold on tight.â
The god jumped from the top of the mountain and she grabbed his neck tightly, almost screaming, but she bit her lips and held tightly to him, scared to be thrown from a great height. She didnât know how much time passed, but she felt he descended and touched ground again. Her body was shaking and he had to take her arms and force her to let go of his neck.
âI will remove this blindfold now.â
She nodded and felt his hands untie the knot on the fabric, so delicately, she felt as if made of glass. Psyche opened her eyes and couldnât see anything but vague figures; the room was dark and his saviour couldnât be distinguished in the shadows, even though he was right in front of her.
âWhere are we?â
âThis is my palace. Donât worry, mother wonât find you here.â
âWill I be your prisoner?â
ââPrisonerâ? No princess, you will be my guest.â
âBut⌠for how long?â she asked, suddenly terrified.
Psyche shook in her place, new tears streaming down her face. How much she missed her father and sisters!
âIâm sorry⌠I wish I could do something moreâŚâ he apologized and he sounded sincere.
âWho are you?â
âYou have many questions, princess.â
âWhy did you save my life?â
âI donât know. I think⌠I think your beauty is indeed rival to hers. I can't kill a lovely creature like you.â
âStop calling me beautiful!â she yelled, frustrated âI never wanted to be born like this and bring a goddessâ wrath upon me or my people! I wish⌠I wish I'd died with my mother on the day I was bornâŚâ
The sudden movement made her flinch, but before she could keep retreating, strong arms hugged her and held her tightly against a broad chest she couldnât see. Hair smooth as silk brushed her cheeks and heat rose in her skin as the soft warm skin of the god touched hers.
âI will protect you from all harm. I swear.â
âWhy would you? Just because of my beauty? What will happen when I grow old and ugly?! I donât want to be a godâs mistress! Let go!â she yelled again, trying to push him aside.
âYouâre wrong.â he said in a deep voice âI know I will love you in this Era and all those yet to come.â he huffed and she could her a smirk in his voice âI control love, I decide who loves who, and who hates who, but I didnât foresaw this⌠did I pierce my own heart accidentally with one of my golden arrows?â he mused to himself.
âWho are you?â
âI have many names, my princess. But my mother called me Eros.â
âEros⌠The Winged Godâ she whispered.
âThat I am.â he chuckled âplease, princess Psyche, be mine. You donât have to love me now.â
âWhat if I never love you?â
âI shall live forever in love with you and no other⌠thatâll be my doom and I accept it.â
Psyche couldnât understand why he spoke as if he had always loved her. She didnât want to end up being the prisoner of a faceless god until her last day, so she wept again, feeling lost and terrified, and miserable. Eros loosened his grip and placed his hands on her face, wiping the tears again. She felt his breath fan her face, closing the gap between them, but not touching her yet.
âLet me love you, princess, and tell me your answer later.â
He placed his parted lips on hers, barely touching them and letting out a shaky breath, then he leaned and kissed her, slowly first, moving with care on her mouth, removing his hands from her head, so if she wanted to pull away she would do it easily. But she stayed, freezed at first, and then moved her lips, kissing him back. He smiled and tasted her salty lips, going deeper, slipping his tongue and meeting hers. The godâs hands touched her shoulders and traveled down her body, until they reached the waist, where he gripped with force, but not enough to hurt her. He bit her bottom lip and he delighted in the soft whimper she let out.
Walking in the darkness, he guided her, never breaking the kiss, till her legs stumbled across a soft material, finding out it was a bed covered in wool blankets. Eros pushed her gently to the bed, and she could feel his arms on either side of her head and his knees pressing on her hips. Eros lowered his head again and kissed her neck before guiding his hands to the belt in the princess dress, taking it off fast, and then sliding the rich silk of the dress down her shoulders, causing a shiver on her skin. The godâs touches and movements were agile, as if he could see through the thick darkness, while Psyche could only see glimpses of his figure. She tensed when his hands opened the dress and his breath hit her chest.
âWait.â
âWhat is it?â
âMay I see you, please? I want to see you.â
âYou don't need to see me, princess, just feel me.â Eros said, his voice deep and breathy.
She hadnât been physically with any man, though hundreds visited her city and palace, just to see her and say she was equal to Aphrodite, but none dared to ask her in marriage⌠now she wanted to laugh at them, since the goddess wanted her dead at all costs. But the fact was, she never felt loved by any of them, nor did she love them. And now, being in the arms of Aphoridteâs son, feeling him more intensely due the lack of light, she felt loved under his careful touches, his passionate kisses and his calming words, said in a musical but manly voice, whispered to her in the ear and only to her. She couldnât see him, but the darkness seemed to increase her senses and she silently thanked the thick shadows for letting her feel him better, to concentrate on his voice and the way his body felt against her, his muscles moving and tensing, the softness of his hairâŚ
Yes, Psyche felt safe and loved for the first time in her life. Throwing away her worries and the shyness from being a maiden, she let herself fall into the new feelings and let loose her own.
âWill you let me love you, princess?â
âNo âprincessâ, I am no more a princess. Call me by my name.â
âPsycheâŚâ
She smiled, pleased, and caressed his cheek trying to memorize the features of her faceless lover.
âYes. Love me, Eros. Give me your all, and I shall love you the same.â
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.
âWill you stay with me tonight?â she asked, her voice tired.
âI want to, but I need to take care of something first. Iâll be back tomorrow at night. Until then, feel free to explore the palace, but do not wander far.â
âWhy do you have to go? I donât want you to leave.â Psyche protested, feeling scared he would flee, like gods used to.
âI promise Iâll come back to you. Just wait for me.â
And that said he kissed her cheek and then her hand. The god stood up and left the room, his light footsteps barely audible on the floor. The darkness lifted and torches lit up the place, as if shadows were part of his presence and had disappeared just like him. Psyche blinked and closed her eyes, trying to get used to the light again, opening slowly her eyelids, finding herself in a beautiful chamber, decorations richer and more dazzling than the ones in her fatherâs palace; a place suitable for an olympian indeed. She was alone and naked in the bed, the only evidence of her faceless lover was the white tunic on the marble tiles and the dark bruises forming on her skin.
The double doors opened slowly and Psyche jolted on the bed, grabbing her dress quickly to cover her bare body. A blonde tall girl entered the room, smiling at her and making a short bow.
"Princess Psyche, it is an honor to meet you. You must be tired, please follow me, water is ready."
"Who are you?"
"I'm Daphne, a river nymph and servant of lord Eros. He entrusted me to take care of you and provide you with everything you should need in his absence."
"I see."
Psyche got up from the bed, putting on her dress carelessly and then followed the nymph outside the room. They walked through large torch-lighted corridors, marble columns sustaining a high roof. Aside from the nymph and herself, the palace seemed empty. Daphne opened heavy oak doors, revealing an enormous bath chamber, steam rising from the large pool in the middle.
The princess decided to take the hot bath, feeling relaxed as soon her body touched the hot water. She dived in the large pool and gave a look at the place, a sigh escaped her lips as she remembered the tears in her fatherâs eyes, she missed him, but then the memories of the godâs touch on her made her blush, feeling a burning desire for him, and then Psyche realized she was fated to stay by his side, as strange as it seemed, she felt safe and loved with Eros.
Once the princess finished washing her body, the nymph assisted her to change into a new robe and then led her to the godâs private chamber again, a tray full of food next to a table.
âI thought you might be hungry, so I ordered food to be brought to you, princess.â
âI am, thank you, Daphne.â Psyche smiled at her and sat at the table âby the way, do you know when Eros will come back?â
âLord Eros said he'll be back tomorrow at night.â
âHe said the same to meâŚâ she mused, disappointment in her voice.
âThe lord never breaks his word. You must believe him. Now, if you donât need anything else, I shall leave you to rest.â
Psyche shook her head and the nymph wished her good night, leaving her alone with her thoughts. She ate slowly and drank a cup of sweet wine, thinking what kind of fate awaited her. The princess sighed again and left her drink unfinished, heading to the bed, and laying there to sleep.
Next morning, Psyche woke up fresh and energized, and after having a quick breakfast, she asked Daphne to show her the palace. The nymph led her through large corridors and great halls, every corner decorated in gold, dark wood and silk. The gardens were equally splendorous and spanned a great area, beyond them, green fields stretched as far as the eye could see. The princess smiled and hurried through the gardens, leaving behind the rose bushes and the olive trees, prompting the nymph to follow her.
She delighted at the sight of purple lilies growing in the fields. Once Daphne reached her side, they walked to the nearest tree, a tall robust oak and sat on the grass, picking flowers to make crowns with them. They spent the afternoon there, talking and laughing.
âI wish he was hereâŚâ Psyche said suddenly, stopping in her movements.
âJust wait till night, my lady. Heâll come back.â Daphne reassured her.
âDo you⌠do you know what he looks like?â she dared to ask. The river nymph paused and looked her in the eyes.
âI do. I have known lord Eros since long long ago.â
âCan you tell me⌠what is his appearance?â
âI canât. I made a promise to him and I wonât break it.â Daphne answered seriously, but then softened âheâs not a monster. Are you afraid of him?â
âIâm not! On the contrary, I feel safe with him. Itâs been just a day, but I believe the Moiras have intertwined our fate threads.â
âThen you should remain at his side and trust him.â
Psyche smiled and nodded, not saying anything else about the subject. They finished the crowns, and when the sun started to set, they headed back to the palace, where the princess met other creatures that served Eros.
As promised, the god came back late at night, but once again, his face wasnât revealed to Psyche. She didnât care after feeling his strong arms embracing her, and like the night before, he made love to her.
âI missed youâŚâ she confessed, caressing his chest.
âI missed you too. Iâm sorry I left you for so long.â
âDonât worry, I wasnât alone, Daphne showed me the palace and the gardens. We made flower crowns in the fields.â
âIâm glad you found good company in her.â Eros smiled.
âShe is a great company, yes, but⌠I wish you were with me today. But youâll stay and tomorrow we can go, right?â
âActually⌠Iâll have to go againâŚâ he murmured, tightening his embrace on her waist. Psyche raised her head.
âWhy?â
âI have to be honest with you, Psyche.â Eros started, taking her hand in his âthe truth is⌠I canât stay with you during the day time, itâs not that I donât want you to see me, I just canât.â
âWhat do you mean? why canât I see you?â
The god sighed and stayed silent for some time, trying to gather his thoughts so he could explain. Psyche frowned and at that moment she disliked the darkness around them, she wanted to see him in the eyes, but remained quiet. Eros turned on his side and touched her cheek, exhaling heavily.
âA long time ago, my mother⌠she visited the Delphosâ oracle, and it said to her that her youngest son would be badly hurt by someone he loved.â he explained, sitting up in bed âso she asked Zeus to put a shadow on me, so no one could see me and fall in love with me. Only her and a few gods can see me.â
âIsnât that unfair? why would a love god be deprived of love itself?â
Eros chuckled and made her come closer to his chest. He brushed her hair and kissed her brow.
âGods are unfair sometimes. Their fates are even moreâŚâ
âIt didnât work thoughâ
âWhy is that?â
âI love you.â
âYou feared me yesterday.â
âThat was before. I know now the Oracle was right when it spoke to my father.â
âWhat did it say to him?â
âShe shall be your daughter no more. At the top of the mountain she will vanish into the air, and only love will keep her memory safe.â she finished quoting the words and hid her face in his neck.
Eros stayed silent, reflecting on the meaning of the Oracleâs words, which were difficult to decipher for wise priests and even the gods. He felt uneasy for some reason, the last part of the prediction was not as clear as the first one. Psycheâs voice interrupted his thoughts,
âI donât mind. I will stay by your side, even if I never get to see your face.â
âReally? Do you promise to never try to see my face?â
âI promise. I will always choose to stay with you, no matter what.â
âYou can't break a promise to a God, or youâll be punished. You know it right?â
âI know. Father always spoke of that.â she said, sighing but smiling afterwards.
He smiled and kissed her, his heart beating fast and bursting from happiness. He thought he would be alone forever thanks to her mother's choice to hide him, but he had finally found his companion. She was a mortal woman, but he would find a way to be with her. He made that promise to himself.
And so time passed, and the days became months and months turned into three years. The princess got used to his faceless lover and waited for him every night, smiling when the shadows covered their shared chamber. She then would welcome him, getting used to recognizing his light steps and his breathing in the darkness. He would hug her tightly and whisper her name in her ear, then he would kiss her and their bodies would soon seek each other, like flame and oil, so they could burn together until their thirst for each other would be satiated.
Summary: He was the ruler of the dead, and she was in charge of living things. He was death, and she was life, and both fell in love with each other.
My retelling of the Greek myth of Hades and Persephone for the second @acewriters event, âGreco Roman Writesâ.
Persephone was nervous, but more than anything else, she was happy. Her regular visits to Enna with the nymphs, had given her the perfect excuse to be away from home and her overprotective mother, and of course, to meet Hades again. She used to stay days at Enna's plains, where the fields were evergreen and full of flowers and trees, making flower crowns, bathing in the river and sleeping on the soft grass. It was her perfect escape place.
The next day of the banquet she parted before sun rose, and once in freedom, she and the nymphs did many activities during the day, however, at nightfall, she told them to stay by the water and do as they pleased, for she would like to take a walk under the moonlight. It wasn't a strange thing that the Goddess wandered alone, and nymphs loved bathing in the river, so they agreed and stayed there quite content, singing and splashing water to each other.
She walked towards her favorite spot, a quiet clearing where white lilies grew. It was her favorite flower⌠the river current could be heard from there and the moon and the stars were perfectly visible in the sky. She stopped there and waited, hoping Hades would find her. Persephone started humming a song just to calm her nerves.
Then, from the shadows emerged a figure and she got scared at first, but then saw the strands of white hair, shining like silver under the moonlight, and she smiled widely. Persephone waited for him to approach, dying on the inside to run to his arms.
He didn't make her wait long, and reached her side quickly, looking down at her. She couldn't help herself and lifted an arm, her hand stopping midway to his cheek, doubting for a moment, but he took her hand and placed it in his face, gently. the Goddess' heart was about to burst when she felt his warm skin, and his long fingers on top of hers. She stepped forward and hugged him, moved by an unknown desire to feel him close, closer than the night before.
Hades was surprised at first, but returned the hug, as if it was only natural to do it with her, he, who had never allowed to be touched by others.
"I was waiting for youâŚ" she whispered, smiling.
"Am I late?" Hades questioned softly.
"No, You're not." She shook her head, looking up at him "I was just impatient to see you again "
He smiled and Persephone swore she fell more in love with him by just seeing his smile.
"Was it too much on my part to ask you for a dance?"
"Of course not." he smiled "I loved dancing with you."
"And to ask you here? We have never met beforeâŚ"
"If you hadn't been the one asking, I would never have accepted." he confessed quietly and frowning "I still can't figure out why, but I know I can't refuse anything to you."
She smiled happily and tightened her embrace, burying her face in his chest and feeling his strong hands on her back. He lifted her head with one hand under her chin, and noticed the tiny flowers and ribbons on her braided hair.
"It matches..." he said. She lifted an eyebrow and he chuckled "the ribbons in your hair; white and red, like your clothes and mine." Hades explained.
She broke the hug and looked at him; it was true, his chiton was a deep red like wine and her dress white. She laughed softly at the discovery and handed out her arms.
"There's no music, but will you dance with me again?"
He widened his smile and reached out to her, taking her hands in his, dancing to an imaginary music inside their heads.
It was their first secret meeting, but not the last. They kept seeing each other once a week, sometimes two, and always in the same spot. Every time the longing for each other grew as did their feelings as they got to know each other better. Persephone loved hearing him talk about his duties and his realm and the way he managed such an arduous task. To her, he was smart, kind, compassionate and strong. But also lonely and misunderstood. Almost everyone feared or avoided him, mostly because of how Zeus made him look.
They were all wrong.
Hades was nothing like everyone thought. He was like the moon in the dark sky; bright and beautiful, but without a companion. She wanted to be like the stars for him.
To him, Persephone was like a deep breath of fresh air. He felt alive and happy. He often realized his face hurt because he had been laughing too much, or that he longed for her warm touch and her small and random sweet words of praise. She was able to make a withered flower to be fresh and soft again, turn a dry tree green and also to make his heart beat fast and to be at ease at the same time. She didn't judge or fear him, she just⌠saw him as he was.
He loved her, and when she kissed him that night, he knew she loved him too.
.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
"Where were you?"
Persephone jumped on her place and stopped her tracks, getting startled at the voice behind her. She had just said goodbye to Hades at their secret place, and she was walking back to the river shore, where she slept with the nymphs. She turned around and sighed, seeing Hermes approaching.
"Don't scare me like that." she told him sternly.
"You didn't answer my question." he insisted, already in front of her.
"I was walking."
"Alone?"
"What is this? An interrogation? Yes, I was walking alone, like I always do at night here in Enna."
"You've been walking for a long time lately." he replied, a strange tone in his voice.
The goddess frowned and tried to decipher the meaning behind his words and the odd shine in the messenger's eyes. He looked at her seemingly in calm, but his eyes⌠It was as if he wanted to start a war. She didn't like his stare. Persephone swallowed and turned around.
"I have already told you my affairs are none of your business."
Hermes stood in his spot, looking at the back of the goddess as she walked away from him. He knew where she had been earlier that night, and all the other nights she had gone to Enna. He saw her and he saw Hades with her.
And he wouldnât stay idle knowing that information.
.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Meeting Persephone in secret at the plains, became a habit to Hades, a ritual, one he enjoyed beyond anything he had ever experienced, for the more he got to know her, the more he felt in love. And he was sure that love was pure and made from his own feelings and the thread of the fates, for nothing, not even Gods' lifes, escaped their work. It was different from the love that surged because of Aphrodite's doing, and he was happier because of that.
But still, being in love with someone so opposite in role and power to him, didn't stop him to carry on his duty as King of the Underworld, and also, to fulfill his brother's request; Hades kept his word and didn't meddle with Leto's life and ordered Thanatos to not collect her soul or her children's. Hera was furious when she found out about the twins' birth, but couldnât do much as it was Zeus' purpose to keep their new children safe, and so the Queen of Gods had to face another disappointment from her husband.
After taking care of that, the God went to Enna again and smiled, seeing Persehone was already waiting for him in the middle of the lilies, making a crown with them. She got up as soon as he approached and held her tightly against him before kissing her lips.
âSit with me.â
He did as she asked, and the Goddess placed the flower crown in his head. He raised an eyebrow and she laughed at his unintentionaly adorable expression. The white lilies matched perfectly with his silver hair
âIt looks good on you. Instead of a gold crown, you should wear this. itâs lighter.â she laughed.
But he didnât smile. He took the crown from his head and looked down at it; he rarely ever used his crown of gold, but he thought he could use that one made of white lilies on him forever, life adorning the head of death. She saw his smile falter and caressed his cheek with her thumb.
âI wasnât serious. You donât have to be that sad, I wonât change your crown of gold for a flower-made one.â she joked.
âItâs not thatâŚâ
âThen, what is it? Why the face?â
âI want to use this crown, but a thought came to meâ he confessed, and noticing her confusion, Hades continued âI would use it, but⌠my crown wouldn't have a companion. The flowers will eventually wither if I keep itâŚ"
Persephoneâs heart ached at his words, thinking he wanted someone to share a throne and end his long life of loneliness, even when he had told her he wasnât really alone in the underworld. But the company of souls, portents and minor Gods are not the same as the company of a lover, she thought.
âI know I am no suitable match for you, and maybe this is my egoistic wish⌠but for a little longer, please⌠stay with me, stay unwed.â she pleaded, her voice coming out more scared than she intended.
âWhat are you saying?â Hades smiled, taking her in his arms âI am not talking about wanting to marry someone elseâŚâ
âBut you said-"
"I said my crown wouldn't have a pair and the flowers would wither⌠because you wouldn't be there with me."
The Goddess gaped a little and widened her eyes at his words. She was certain she loved him, but she wasn't sure he loved her back in the same way. Persephone felt tears forming in her eyes, and a mix of excitement and bitterness spread in her chest; she wanted to be with him, forever in that age and all others to come. She took his hand with hers and his face with the other, gently touching his cheek while looking into his dark eyes.
"Do you love me?"
"I do." he responded immediately.
"Then, be mine and I'll be yours."
"I would have made you my Queen the instant I saw youâŚ' he confessed, and stopped, sighing.
"But?" She asked, dropping her hand, and feeling her heart did the same.
"Your mother will never allow it."
"I am her daughter, not her servant. And I'm grown and a Goddess as well. It is my choice who I love and who I will marry."
"Are you willing to defy her then?" he questioned âshe would never approve.â
âI-â
âYouâre right, Hades; I will never approve it.â
The voice came from behind them, and turning around quickly, Hades and Persephone saw Demether standing a few meters away, her face frowning and her tall figure menacing. The goddess of spring stood up first and took a few steps closer to her mother, who approached too.
âSo this is where you've been hidingâŚâ she said, glaring at her daughter âand this is why your escapades to Enna had been more frequent.â
She looked at Hades, who had stood up as well, and was now behind Persephone, his face calm and emotionless, as always.
âLeave my daughter alone, Hades. She is not a toy to play with. And you-â Demether spoke to Persephone âyouâre coming with me, now.â
âNo.â
For the very first time in her life, Persephone defied and disobeyed her mother. Demether frowned deeply and reached out and grabbed her daughterâs arm, trying to drag her back with her, but she resisted and right at that moment, Persephone made a decision; she would stay by Hadesâs side, because she couldnât think of an endless life without him. Shaking off her motherâs grasp, she clinged back to the God.
In that very instant, the grass, and the flowers and the trees dried and withered, transforming the clear into a deserted dark area; they were slowly dying. Demether noticed and looked around, terrified at the sight.
âTake me with you. To the Underworld.â Persephone said to Hades, staring into his eyes.
âWhat? What are you saying Persephone?â
âYou canât go there!â yelled Demether ârelease him, everything is dying, it's because of him!â
âNo mother, youâre wrong⌠Iâm letting it all die.â
âWhatâŚ?â
The goddess of harvest couldnât believe her daughter, that she, the deity in charge of green and life, was killing it all on purpose.
âPersephoneâŚâ began Hades, but she stopped him, placing her finger on his lips.
âYour pegasus, call it. Letâs run away.â
He wanted to protest, to reason with her and prevent any incident that could lead to irreversible consequences⌠but at the same time, he wanted to run away, to have her for himself and love her for all eternity. Hades made a choice too, and smiling to her, he looked at Demether, who seemed both enraged and shocked, then he whistled and from the sky descended a black pegasus, darker than the night sky and magnificent.
âDonât you dare!â yelled Demether, trying to stop her daughter.
Persephone mounted the winged horse and looked at her, moving her hand and making the vines grow again to block her way.
âYou canât stop me mother, and if you insist, I will continue to kill every plant, every flower and every harvest on earth until the last man perishes⌠itâs your decision.â
Hades mounted right behind her and took the reins of the pegasus, and before Demether could say another word, he ordered the beast to take off, disappearing into the sky in a few seconds.
.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
âIt may not be beautiful or pleasant, but this is my domain. Youâll be safe here, I promise.â
Persephone nodded and looked around the room; it wasnât dark or gloomy, but filled with red and gold and blue and was warm. Hades took her hand and smiled, the Goddess smiled back, admiring his beautiful features that seemed to light up with that small curve on his lips.
âDo you regret it? Coming with me?â
âNo.â she answered immediately âI would have regretted leaving with my mother and not being by your side.â
Hades widened the smile and leaned down to kiss her. It was a short but sweet kiss, but it conveyed his happiness to have her by his side. They didnât say anything else and stayed in each othersâ company that night, for they needed no words to understand the otherâs mind.
Surprisingly, it took a long time, almost three months, for the Messenger of Gods to arrive at the Underworld's gates, carrying the words of both Zeus and Demether, demanding âPersephoneâs releaseâ. The Goddess raged at seeing Hermes and hearing the words from Olympus; they spoke as if she had been captured and was a prisoner. Hermes conveyed the message to the King of the Underworld, not daring to look into his eyes once, but after finishing speaking, he did look at Persephone.
âCome back to the surface, Kore. This is not your place.â
âDonât call me that.â she snapped at him âthis isnât your place either. Leave, and tell my mother I wonât change my mind.â
âAnd what about the mortals?â he questioned between gritted teeth âare you going to let them all die because of your lover?â
âIf anyone insists I should go back, then I have no choice but to continue this.â she said, unmoved.
âDonât you understand? Everyone is dying!â
The King of the Underworld was more than aware of that. Not only because he witnessed Persephoneâs doing that night, but because the coming of souls to his realm had dramatically increased in the last months, since Persephoneâs will to wither everything, plus her absence, prevailed on the surface; she knew her actions were considered horrific, and she didnât want to hurt anyone⌠but he also knew, she wouldnât comeback willingly.
âI should have told your mother sooner who you were meeting in Enna at nightfall⌠then this wouldn't have happened.â
She widened her eyes, closed the gap between the messenger and her in a few steps, lifted her arm and slapped Hermes, the sound of her hit echoing in the great hall. She was furious. The winged God touched his cheek and then returned his gaze towards her, astonished at her action and force.
âYou knew?! And still betrayed me?! You bastard!â
âYes! I knew!â he replied bitterly.
âAnd why didnât you talk to me first?â
âBecause I love you, Kore! And I donât want you to be someone elseâs!â
Something dark awakened her at that moment. She clenched her jaw and took a step forward, making Hermes take one back, as if afraid of her. The light provided by the torches on the walls dimmed and, around her body concentrated a dark aura, as if she was destroying light with her own darkness, a darkness she didnât know she possessed.
âYou claim to love me, but you love no one but yourself, as you couldnât accept my happiness at anotherâs side; at Hadesâ side. Begone of my presence!â
âPersephone, calm down.â Hades called for her, standing up from his throne.
He stood behind her and placed his hand on her shoulders, feeling her relax under his touch. The darkness disappeared and the light turned intense again. She released a sigh and took her belovedâs right hand with hers, her eyes piercing Hermes' soul.
âYou heard her. â spoke Hades, calm but cold âgo and deliver her message to Olympus. She is not my prisoner and she can leave whenever she wants to, but as long as she decides to stay, I will not part her from my side. Also⌠tell Zeus if he wants her back up there, he will have to come take her himself.â
Hades' eyes grew darker than they already were and his voice didnât leave room for refusal. Hermes fled. Only when the messenger was gone, Hades sighed and focused on his companion, noticing she was trembling and her grip had turned rigid on top of his hand. He unclenched the fingers and pulled her close, closer than she already was.
âWhat are we going to do?" asked Persephone, on the brink of tears.
Hades tried to think of a solution that didn't lead to a war. He caressed Persephone's hair and held her tight against him, to let her know he wasn't going anywhere. She grabbed the edge of his tunic and hid her face in his neck, trying her best not to cry.
"I don't want to go⌠I don't want to leave you. They canât force me, they canât" She murmured on his skin, more to herself than to him.
âWhat about your duties?â Hades said, forcing her to meet his eyes âthe harvests are dying and the cold weather has gotten worse⌠mortals will perish entirely if they don't have anything to eat." Hades tried to reason with her.
âI don't want them all to die, it wasnât my intention!â she cried âbut my mother wants to separate us. I wonât let her! I love you!â
âAnd I love you, PersephoneâŚâ the King whispered, conflicted.
The God was aware it was a painful situation for her. But he had to be reasonable, he couldnât let all humans die and their souls fill the entire Styx river.
âBut⌠you should return and make it right.â
âWhat?!â she broke apart from him, her eyes already shiny with tears âNo! I donât want to! I wonât go, theyâll never let me see you again!â
âPlease, calm down.â he asked softly, taking her into his arms again âIâm not saying you should go forever, just for a little while and fix this mess.â
âBut-!â
âDo you trust me?â
She nodded fervently and he smiled.
âDonât worry, I have a plan.â
.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
When Zeus himself descended to earth, he was accompanied by a distressed Demether, who wanted her daughter back. The King of Olympus demanded his brother to meet him at one of the Underworld entrances and bring Persephone with him, so they could reach an agreement.
Hades kept his word and showed up at the grotto entrance, Persephone right behind him. Demether was about to sprint forward to her, but Zeus stopped her.
âItâs been long since Persephone was abducted. Knowing the precarious situation of the world, will you still refuse to let her free?â spoke Zeus, trying to sound diplomatic.
Hades thought he sounded as idiotic as ever.
âI have already said to the messenger that sheâs never been a prisoner.â
âAre you saying she came willingly? please brother, sheâs young and naive, clearly she has infatuated with you, but her little caprice have come too far. Let her save the harvest and forests.â
The King of the Underworld felt his loved one's hands gripping his cloak, anger running through her veins, but she stayed silent.
âIf she decides to return I will not oppose, however, if sheâs forced, be aware Iâll start a war to get her back.â
âNo need to be that serious, Hades!â laughed Zeus âI wonât forbid you two to meet again.â
âI have agreed to let you see her again. Only once though.â intervened Demether.
âIâm afraid thatâs not enough, as I love her and I have already named her my Queen.â the white haired God confessed, grinning.
Demether was enraged and Zeus frowned, but remained calmed.
âThen, what are your conditions, brother?â
âYou said you would grant me anything I wish.â reminded Hades to his brother.
Zeus pursed his lips. He indeed remembered the promise he made in exchange to keep his mistress and the twin gods safe. Demether looked at him as if she wanted to murder Zeus, more than Hades.
âThis is a different matter.â
âItâs not. I demand you to fulfill your word and bless our marriage. Only then, I will convince Persephone to be on the surface and solve the famine problem.â
The ruler of Olympus huffed and his lips formed a one sided smile; Hades has always been the smartest and wittiest among their kind. To him, the worship of humans was far more valuable than being on good terms with Demether, so he sighed and nodded, ignoring the Goddess' complaints. He blessed Hades and Persephoneâs marriage and promised to celebrate a great party when a date was set, after she fixed the harvest issues.
Hades turned to Persephone and she smiled. He rested his forehead on hers and both breathed deep, already feeling the bitterness of separation. Hades was certain she would return to his side, so he kissed her one last time and led her outside the cave until they were in front of the other two deities. As soon as she was outside, the arid ground was covered in thick green grass and the nearest treesâ branches filled with leaves and flowers.
âI know you care for me, mother, but I want you to understand this is my choice.â
âYou donât know what you are talking about. This isnât love.â
âI knew you would say something like that.â Persephone smiled bitterly and extended her fisted left hand to the front âso I prepared this to make you understand: my fate is not yours, but mine.â
She opened her fist and on her palm there were six pomegranate grains. The Underworld fruit. Persephone saw her motherâs lips open and she gave a step forward, but she was faster and taking the grains to her mouth, she swallowed them and thus her soul was attached to the Underworld and her fate to Hades. Forever.
Hades smiled, knowing her plan all along, relieved on the inside to know she would at least be with him for two seasons, while she took care of the sows and harvests the other two.
âIâll come back. Wait for me.â she asked, a sad smile on her face.
âI will always wait for you.â Hades answered, smiling back.
Hades kissed her again, always hungry for her lips, and then he bid her farewell, his heart aching to let go of her hand, just like her heart ached and her eyes teared up.
And so they parted ways, promising to return to each otherâs embrace in due time. But they knew it would be only a matter of time to reunite again. He would always wait for her, and she would always return to his side.
Genre: Myth AU, Fluff-ish, Angsty maybe, depending how you look at it.
Word Count: 1.8k
Warning: None?
Summary: When Pygmalion would rather be alone throughout his life, he creates the perfect woman in an ivory sculpture. This is my version of the myth of Pygmalion and Galatea for the @acewriters event, Greco Roman Writes.Â
I hear a heavy groan next to me as a new weight encases itself around my waist. I hear the birds chirp as I stretch my limbs, breathing out with a moan of satisfaction before turning around, facing the body that lay next to me in bed. Junâs face rested on the pillow in a peaceful manner, a slight smile gracing his lips as he pulls me closer to his body, his face nuzzling into my neck as a laugh goes through my chest.
âGood morning.â I whisper to him as my hand runs through the strands of his hair in a gentle way, combing through the bedhead he had earned whilst rolling around in his sleep.
All I get in response is a groan as he nuzzles his face against my neck again, the slight stubble that had grown overnight ticking the sensitive skin there.
Jun's head stills before a ticklish feeling invades my neck, a soft giggle escaping my lips. âJun, what are you doing?â
âIâm attacking you with butterfly kisses.â He states as the tickling feeling returns making my skin itch from the soft ministrations of Junâs eyelashes.
âIt tickles.â I tell him as I go to to move away from him.
He moans at the loss of contact, a pout on his lips as he looks up at me, his arms out for me to snuggle back into. I smile as I lean down, resting my lips on his jaw as I copy his movements and flutter my lashes against his cheek, causing a giggle to come from him.
âSee, it tickles.â I smile at him as I snuggle back into his arms, my back to him and his face finding a home in my neck.
âI like it though.â Jun comments as he begins to rub my side in gentle strokes, his breath fanning over the back of my neck, causing goosebumps to rise on my skin.Â
âWhat about a kiss on the lips?â I ask him as he looks upon to me.
âI like those too.â He states as he leans up to capture my lips in a sweet kiss.
Byeongkwan
I hear Byeongkwan shuffle into the room as I put the final touches on my make up.
âAre you ready?â He asks, walking in to wrap his arms around my waist.
I hum as a yes and turn my head to the side, looking at him over my shoulder. He leans in and give my lips a quick peck, his eyes stare at my lips as he pulls away, his tongue peaking out to lick his own lips at a distracting, slow pace.
âDo you have lip gloss on?â He asks, his eyes never once leaving my mouth.
I laugh as I nod. âYes, it's cherry flavored.â
Byeongkwan leans in again, kissing my mouth in quick, soft motions, only pulling away for a moment to lick the cherry flavor lip gloss off of his lips.
âI think youâre going to need to reapply.â He says in a daze, his eyes glossed over and his lips and eyes still focused on the cherry flavoring that coated my mouth.
âOr you can stop kissing it off.â I suggest as I turn in his arms, my chest against his as I face him.
âNo, I like the reapply option better.â He states as he kisses me again, this time longer as he dwells in the cherry flavoring against my lips.
âByeongkwan.â I laugh. âThen it runs out faster.â
âIâll buy you more.â He mumbles against my lips, his eyes remaining closed and only separating to mumble that quick sentence before pushing his lips against mine again, continuing to kiss off the cherry flavored lip gloss.
Donghun
I enter my shared apartment with Donghun, seeing him on the couch putting me into a good mood as I make my way over to his resting form. I climb onto Donghun's lap, my knees at his hips as I face him, this position causing him to look up at me
âHey, Princess.â He offers me a sweet smile, his eyes holding a deep love as they look into mine.
âI missed you.â I tell him as I lean my face down to his, resting my nose against his as I look into his eyes.
Donghun smiles as he pulls me closer until out bodies were flush against one another, all the while our noses stay together, prompting me to rub my nose against his in a gentle way, our noses squishing against one other as I moved my head back and forth.
Donghunâs smile widens as he watches our noses meet.
âYouâre adorable.â He tells me as he places a quick peck to my lips.
âNot as adorable as your nose.â I counter as I press the tip of my nose to his, earning me a deep, quiet chuckle.
Seyoon
I round the corner of my hallway seeing Seyoon enter through the door and execrating my heart rate. I waste no time in running up to Seyoon, my body crashing into his, his arms wrapping around me as he lets out an âoofâ from the momentum. I wrap my legs around his waist on instinct, hiding my face deep into the crook of his neck, taking deep breaths as I take in the feeling of his body against mine.
âDid you miss me?.â He chuckles as he traces loving patterns against my back, his thumbs drumming a soft beat against the fabric of my shirt.
My head leaves his neck, lifting enough to begin leaning my head to capture his lips with mine. His eyes close as he leans his lips towards mine, meeting me halfway as the patterns and beat on my back continue. The kiss was slow and passionate, lasting a long while before I felt him smile against my lips. His tongue peaks out of his mouth, his tongue licking my lips as his tongue trails over my nose before pulling away.
I laugh as I wince at him. âSeyoon, really?â
âDonât act like you didnât like it.â He laughs as he leans in again for a proper kiss.
Chan
Chan and I were sitting in front of the tv as the movie played in front of us. My heart was beating in anticipation as I waited for the long awaited kiss scene. Anytime Chan and I watched a movie alone he would always want to try to replicate to the best of our abilities.
The current movie was spider-man and of course everyone knows the famous upside down kiss.
I waited with bated breath as the rain scene finally came and Chan jumped up from his spot.
âIâm going to get ready!â He exclaims as he makes his way to the sofa.
I laugh as I roll my eyes, watching as he lays on the couch, dangling his head off the cushions as he looks at me upside down.
I crawl over to him as the scene finally unfolds, Mary Jane kissing Spider-Man in the rain.
I smirk as I take my water cup and pour some water on Chan, making him whine in protest.
âItâs raining.â I wink at him as I gesture to the movie.
Chan begins to protest again as I lean in and press my lips against his, silencing his whines. I feel butterflies irrupt in my stomach as I continue the kiss, getting lost in the sensation. I pull away slowly as I look to Chan.
âCan we do it again?â Chan asks with hopeful eyes. Answering his question as I lean in again.
Summary: When their kids want to do something for them.
*****
Donghun
Donghun had been busy a lot recently. Him and Jun had been practicing for an upcoming show that they were attending together and that meant he would get home pretty late most night, definitely after his daughter had gone to bed. She would see him just long enough in the mornings to give him a kiss before he left for more practice.
She missed her dad dearly and asked her mom if she could do something for him.
"What do you want to do for daddy?"
"I don't want him to be lonely." She says with a small pout, one that mimicked Donghun's perfectly and made her mom smile fondly.
His daughter ran into her room, rummaging through her belongings before finding what she wanted. She rushes back to her mom, holding out the item with both hands in front of her face.
"Can we give him this so he's not lonely?" Their daughter asks as she holds out a plush brown bear in her hands. "He can watch daddy while he practices."
"Daddy would love that." Her mom smiles at her daughter as she pulls her into her lap. "Let's take it to daddy at lunch, we will bring him his favorite."
~
When they arrive at the practice room, they quickly maneuver the halls, finding the correct practice room where Donghun and Jun sat, taking a small break. The two girls enter, Donghun's daughter sprinting towards him to fall into his lap, hugging him around the neck before either singer could process the moment.
Donghun let out an oof as he smiled, hugging her back. "What brings you here, Little Princess?"
"We didn't want you to be lonely." His daughter confesses cutely as she holds the bear out to Donghun. "He's going to watch you practice."
"But this is your bear." Donghun looks at his daughter with puppy eyes.
"He's yours now." She tells him, leaving the bear in his lap. "He will watch you and Junhee now and keep you company. I don't want you to be lonely and he makes me feel better so he will make you feel better too." She smiles up at Donghun, making his heart clench in love.
"Mommy brought lunch too!" She states excitedly. "She brought some for you too, Junhee." The little girl paddles over to Jun, giving him a hug as well as he smiles down at her in his lap.
"That's very nice of you both to come visit." Jun smiles.
"We came for daddy but we will say hi to you too." This makes Donghun laugh as he picks her up, Jun looking on in shock at her words.
"Let's go eat, Little Princess."
Seyoon
His daughter never said a lot, but she always missed Seyoon when he was busy. She cared a lot about both her parents and always wanted to do stuff for them. Seyoon was currently at the broadcasting station about to perform their comeback song on tv. He had come home to sleep at night and had breakfast with them every morning, but she still missed Seyoon.
She came out of her room, seeing her mom on the couch with a book in her hands as her fingers traced the pages carefully as she read. She climbs the couch, a big feat for her tiny frame, and crawls into her moms lap.
âHey Sweetie.â Her mom greets her, immediately putting her book away to give her full attention to her daughter.
âWhereâs daddy?â She asks as she look up at her mom.
âHeâs going to be in tv tonight so heâs recording.â Her mom explains as she begins brush her fingers through her daughterâs hair, getting the small tangled that had formed over the day.
âI have something for him.â She says as she reaches in her pocket, pulling out a bracelet that she had made.
The beads were lava rocks stringed along a stretchy thread, tied loosely to fit a bigger wrist. It was very well done and made her momâs heart swell with pride.
âHeâs going to love it.â She smiles at her daughter, holding the bracelet eye level.
âCan I give it to him now?â She asks, eyes hopeful.
Her mom thinks for a moment, knowing if they go it would have to be quick, but it might be nice for him to get this before going on stage.
âOkay, but we canât stay long, daddy has to work.â
She runs smiles slightly, running to get ready.
~
It was easy to get into the broadcasting station, they were given visitor passes a long time ago by Seyoon. He told them they could come anytime and heâd make sure they could get in. It was a quick flash of the pass and they entered. Her mom read directions and signs to get to the correct waiting room, the one reading âA.C.Eâ.
The two knock on the door. After hearing a âcome inâ they enter, being greeted by ace and the staff tasked to help with hair and make up. Seyoonâs face lights up as he sees them, standing quickly to go hug them.
âThis is a surprise.â He whispers in his wifeâs ear, making her smile widen.
âIt gets better.â She whispers back at him, looking down at their daughter
The other members come to say hi as Seyoon leans down to be at the same height as his daughter.
âIâm happy to see you sweetie.â
âI brought you something.â Her small voice only traveling to his ears and no one elseâs.
His smile widens as she holds her hands over each other, hiding something between them.
âCan you close your eyes, please?â
Seyoon smiles at her politeness and does as told. He holds his hands out in instinct, feeling her small ones rest in his palm before an item escapes her hands and falls into his. Her hands leave his as she giggled quietly.
âOkay you can open your eyes.â
Seyoonâs eyes flutter open as he looks to his hands, seeing the bracelet she had made. His face starts to hurt from his smile as he puts the bracelet on.
âYou made this for me?â
âI did and look!â She holds up her own wrist to show a matching bracelet.
Seyoon hugs her quickly. âThank you sweetheart.â He whispers into her hair.
âDo you like it, daddy?â
âI love it.â
And it showed by how much he wore it. He would wear it everyday, only taking it off to sleep, exercise or practice, not wanting it to break. He even wore it on stage that day, making his daughter giggle uncontrollably when it appeared in tv that night.
Byeongkwan
Music played in the living room, a familiar tune traveling through the small apartment. Byeongkwanâs son was hard at work, dancing to an ACE song. His mom came in, giggling at his big movements and his outrageous facial expressions.
âWhat are you doing?â She asks her son as she sits in the floor next to him to get a perfect view of his dancing.
âIâm dancing like daddy.â
She giggled as he continues the moves to the very complicated âFavorite Boysâ choreography. âYouâre practice has payed off! Youâre dancing so well!â
The young boy stops to smile at his mom before running over to her.
âMommy, I want to show daddy.â He says in a shy voice, his eyes down to the floor.
âYou want to show daddy your dance?â
âYea so I can dance with him. He really likes when I dance with him and I want to make him happy.â
âAw sweetheart thatâs so sweet.â She brings him into her arms, hugging him close as he does the same. âDaddy will love that.â
âWhen does he come home?â
She looks at the clock that hung on the wall, the time reading 6:00 pm. âHe will be home in two hours.â
âI have to keep practicing.â He states soundly as he stands from his motherâs embrace. âWill you practice with me mommy?â
âOf course I will baby.â
~
8:00 pm rolls by, the dancing pair sweaty messes from their extensive practicing.
âI have to get on a cool outfit!â Byeongkwanâs son explains as he runs to his room, making his mom laugh.
She decides to clean up herself before Byeongkwan came home, going to her room as well.
It wasnât long after that the apartment door made a sound, indicating it unlocking. Byeongkwan comes in, being greeted by his wife as she wraps her arms around him to kiss him in greeting.
âHowâs my baby doing?â He asks as he smiles at her fondly.
She hums in response. âHowâs my baby doing?â
âMuch better now that Iâm home.â
âItâs about to get much better.â
Byeongkwan quirks an eyebrow at her as she pulls away, confusion settling in him as she goes to their sonâs room. Byeongkwan begins to follow before they both come from the room, his son dressed in his suit he only wears for special occasion.
âDaddy!â He runs to hug Byeongkwan, making Byeongkwan smile widely.
âYou look sharp, Buddy.â
âI have a surprise for you.â
Byeongkwan watches his son go to the tv, pulling up a familiar song to the rapper. His smile continues to widen as the video loads, the first words coming through the speakers as his son starts to mimic his own movements.
His son hits the movements, they are wild for a five year old, but definitely impressive for his age. Byeongkwan feels pride swell in his chest as his wife stand next to him, her hand encasing his as they watch their son make the final movements. They both clap enthusiastically as their son bows in his tiny suit.
âYou learned that dance by yourself?â Byeongkwan asks with excitement as his son waddles to him.
âMommy helped.â His son expresses as he gives a thumbs up to his mom.
Byeongkwan mouths an I love you to his wife before looking back at his son.
âCan we dance it together?â His son asks, to which Byeongkwan agrees to immediately.
The two danced for hours, trying different songs and eventually changing to dance in pajamas. It became a regular thing for Byeongkwan to come home and dance with his son and it became common for Byeongkwan to bring his son to the dance practice room to help him practice for upcoming comebacks.
Chan
Chan and his wife were resting in bed on the Saturday morning. They had gotten up earlier than their son and decided to just rest in each otherâs company before he awoke. They cuddled kissed each other to their hearts content, normally being told off by their son.
They had just pulled away from a kiss when their son walks into their room and climbs onto the bed.
âYou canât leave this room until I tell you to come out, okay?â He asks for clarification as he stares deep into their eyes.
His mother laughs, nodding as she continues to hold Chanâs hand under the blanket. Their son scurries off, closing their door as he goes. The couple look at each other and laugh, Chanâs infectious laugh traveling throughout the room.
âWhat do you think heâs doing?â Chan asks her in a whisper, their breaths mingling from their close proximity.
âI think it might have something to do with watching you cook the other day.â
"Let's hope he does better than me at least." Chan giggles as he nuzzles back into the covers.
~
Their son walks back into the room, jumping on the bed to announce his arrival.
"Daddy, it's ready." He giggles, one similar to Chan, as he bounces repeatedly on top of Chan.
Chan rises from bed, picking up his son and carrying him into the other room, both of their laughter filling the apartment. When Chan enters the kitchen, he sees that his wife was right about her suspicion. Thankfully, Chan's hope also appeared to be correct as the breakfast his son made looked better than anything Chan had ever attempted.
"This is for me and mommy?" Chan asks his son as he sits down, his son sitting on his lap.
His son nods in excitement as he waits for Chan to try his masterpiece. Chan takes a bite, gasping dramatically as it hits his tastebuds.
"You must be a professional chef." Chan shakes his head as he savors the taste.
"I am." His son smiles as he begins to eat his own portion he had prepared.
"We have to get mommy." Chan announces before picking his son up again to go get his wife so they could both brag about their son's amazing cooking skills.
Jun
Their mom was in the living room, reading a book while the twins played amongst themselves in their playroom. It was rare for quiet times like this, but she took the most of them because they never lasted long.
"Mommy, can we go to the pet store?" Her daughter asks in a soft voice, her tentativeness bleeding through.
"Why do you want to go there?" Her mom asks as she sets her book to the side, her full attention on her daughter.
"We need to get daddy a puppy!" Her son yells through the house, running and crashing into his mother's lap as he rests his hands on her shoulders to look at her.
"Why is daddy getting a puppy?"
"Because he misses Lion and he needs a new puppy." Her daughter explains as she joins her brother on their mom's lap, their pleading eyes looking at her.
"If daddy had a new puppy wouldn't Lion be sad?"
The twins look at each other, their eyes holding tears at the thought of Lion being sad.
"Then what do we get daddy to show him we love him?" Her son asks with a sniffle, tears threatening to spill at any second.
Their mom feels tears well up in her eyes as she watches her children sniffle in front of her.
"Oh sweetheart, daddy already knows you love him." She wipes the tears that begin falling over their cheeks, trying her hardest to keep from crying at the sight of their tears.
"But we want to show him." Her daughter sobs, the tears full force now as they cry into their mother's chest.
She holds them both as she rocks them, holding them until their tears subside before suggesting an idea.
"What if we made daddy letters?"
The twins sniffle as they look at her, wiping their eyes to get the left over tears out of their brown eyes.
"Can you teach us how to write 'we love you daddy'?" Her daughter asks, her eyes clear of tears as excitement overtakes them.
"Of course, Sweetie." She smiles brushing their hair back out of their faces. "Come on let's go."
~
Jun enters the house, hearing giggling coming from the playroom, making a smile appear on his face in an instant at the sound of his children's laughter. He leaves his shoes at the door, shuffling down the hall to see his entire family in the playroom. He comes in and wraps his arms around his wife, his nose settling into her neck as he breathes deeply into her.
"Daddy no!" His daughter screams covering her side of table, his son mirroring her actions making Jun look at the twins in confusion.
His daughter begins crying, ranting about how the surprise is now ruined.
"No! Sweetheart I didn't see anything!" Jun shouts as he covers his eyes with his hands. "I promise!"
"Kids you finish up, I will go distract daddy." Their mom tells them as she pushes Jun out of the room, her hand on his chest making his hands fall to look at the closeness of their bodies.
"How are you going to distract me?" He asks with a goofy smile as he pulls his wife into his arms.
"I can think of something." She whispers as she kisses him on the lips, her arms encasing his waist and pulling him closer to her.
"Okay daddy!" A tiny voice comes from the playroom, pulling the couple apart as Jun watches his kids hand out pieces of paper out to him.
The messy handwriting and oddly proportioned pictures were scattered across the papers, showing both personalities from his twins. He feels tears in his eyes as he looks at the papers, feeling a sense of overwhelming love and joy for his family.
"You made these for me?" He asks, his voice staying calm despite the frog stuck in it.
"We wanted to get you a puppy but we didn't want Lion to be sad." His daughter tells him with a bright smile.
Jun leans down to hug them both, his hands holding their heads against him as he tries to compose himself before facing them again.
"Daddy loves them." He says as he kisses both of their heads.
They cheer as they run off again, going to play amongst themselves again now that they've shown their love.
"We had many tears because Lion would feel replaced with a new puppy." His wife says as she wraps her arms around him again.
"You're a warrior." Jun whispers against her lips as he kisses her again with the papers tight in his fingers.
Summary: He was the ruler of the dead, and she was in charge of living things. He was death, and she was life, and both fell in love with each other.
My retelling of the Greek myth of Hades and Persephone for the second @acewriters event, "Greco Roman Writes".
Persephone turned around, startled, and found the messenger of Gods standing next to her terrace door. She put one hand on her chest due the initial scare and then smiled, sighing in relief to see it was her friend.
"You look beautiful."
"You look quite decent yourself today too, Hermes." she said jokingly.
The God laughed, fully aware his attire was not the best for a party at Olympus, but still acceptable enough, considering he didn't like long and heavy robes to wear. If anything, he loved gold jewelry to adorn his skin.
"Does that mean I can be your dance partner tonight?" he asked, approaching the goddess who was looking at her reflection on the polished mirror in her room.
âI would love that.â she smiled again and kept looking at her dress.
Persephone wasnât sure if it was the right thing to wear at her first event at Olympus. The long dark green peplum had a graceful fall on the skirt, where tiny beads were attached to the vaporous fabric. A long embroidered veil covered the back of her head and shoulders, which were uncovered since the dress was sleeveless. Persephone felt weird seeing herself wearing such an elegant garment.
âCome on, I told you, you look beautiful.â Hermes insisted and grabbed her shoulders, joining the reflection on the mirror âbesides, itâs just a party, what can possibly be different tonight? All parties are the same.â
And Hermes⌠he was good to her, but she didnât love him the way he loved her. She knew she couldnât marry him, not then nor in the future. She would have to wait to find a suitable partner, someone she loved, if that someone was ever meant to love her back or to be born.
âItâs my first time going to Olympus, it has to be different from the festivals here.â she chuckled "also, I donât want to embarass my mother.â
âYou canât embarrass her even if you wanted to! youâre her everything⌠and mine too.â he confessed boldly.
Persephone lifted her eyebrows and blushed, turning around to face the God. Hermes was handsome, and always had something fun to say or do whenever he visited her, butâŚ
âHermes⌠you know I like you too, I justâŚâ
âYou donât have to give me an answer right now, Persephone.â he said, smiling âIâll wait, and when youâre ready, I will ask your mother to let me marry you.â
She frowned slightly, and was about to say something, but he didnât give her time as he leaned down to kiss her forehead. Then he made a graceful reverence to her, showing a bright smile when he straightened, and finally turned on his heels and walked out to the terrace, taking off to the sky with his winged sandals.
She stayed in the same spot for a couple of minutes, thinking of Hermesâ words. She was a mature goddess, though still unwed and living with her mother, who had insisted she should remain at her side till the day she found a good husband. Persephone doubted her mother would ever see anyone suitable for her, even less to allow her to love anyone and eventually leave. As much as she loved Demeter, Persephone was not indifferent to her mother's excessive care⌠she was suffocating.
Her chamberâs door opened, revealing one of the nymphs who served her and Demeter.
âMy lady, itâs time.â announced the nymph âyour mother is waiting for you.â
The barely dissimulated whisper did not pass unnoticed by the God of Death. He wasnât surprised, it was common that the other Gods said such things whenever he made an appearance in any of the festivities or gatherings made by his younger brother, who happened to be the ruler among the immortals, which meant he couldnât refuse forever to attend. It had been almost a century since the last time he set foot on Olympus, and Zeus wasnât going to be
Persephone sighed to relieve some tension and then smiled, walking towards the door. Only for that night she wasnât going to worry about her motherâs restrictions, or Hermes words, or anything, no, she was going to enjoy the celebration, and tomorrow she could go back to her usual life. Nothing would change.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
âI canât believe heâs actually hereâŚâ
"Because you're the most suited to do the job. Imagine the chaos if Poseidon was King of the Underworld instead of you." tried to reason Zeus, smiling.
so forgiving this time. So there he was, walking through the great hall, looking regal with his head of white long hair crowned in golden laurels, clad in a magnificent black chiton of edges embroidered in gold and shod in a pair of fine leather sandals.
He walked straight, lifting his chin while doing it, not sparing a glance to the others on his way to the throne. His face of perfect-shaped features and lightly tanned skin were in balance with his lean but muscular body, his dark round eyes seemed to shine and penetrate to the deepest of anyoneâs soul, which was part of the reason some of the olympians feared him. But despite their fear, no one could deny Hades was beautiful and powerful.
He stopped in front of the King of the Gods and made a slight reverence, out of protocol than of loyalty, towards his younger brother and to his wife Hera.
âBrother! I see you decided to come, after all.â greeted Zeus, smiling at him from his golden throne.
âI wasnât given a chance to refuse, if I recall correctly.â retorted Hades.
âBecause I knew you wouldnât come, haven't I insisted.â
"Yes, you were very⌠persuasive." Hades said, resisting the urge to roll his eyes.
Zeus laughed and stood up from his throne, giving Hades a strong pat on the back.
"Walk with me, I'm starting to get bored of the music." Zeus said, heading towards one of the terraces "How's the underworld doing?"
Hades rolled his eyes for real this time. Is he seriously asking me this? He thought while reaching one of the fountains outside.
"Same as always brother: full of deads" he responded sarcastically.
"You need to relax, that job is stressful."
"A job you happily entrusted to me." the eldest reminded him.
"True, true, how could you know of her if you spend so much time underground? Anyway, she's about to give birth to my offspring, and Hera is not happy about it."
"You flatter meâŚ" said again with sarcasm the dark King "and in any case, I like what I do."
And it was the truth. The God of Death was quite content to carry on his duty as King of the Underworld. It was a lonely and difficult job, a job that his brother assigned him without asking, because âhe was lonely and gloomy anyway, and someone had to keep the deadâ... asshole.
Hades was the eldest, and hadnât been because their mother protected the youngest, he would have been the King of the Gods by birth right, hadn't Chronos gone insane⌠but that was another story and kingship was something he didnât desire either. No, Hades wasnât like his cocky younger brother; he wanted to live in peace and keep doing his part as one of the regents of the world, because, even when humans feared him, the truth was, the King of the Underworld, was one of the most compassionate and smart deities from the Olympian kind.
He was just fine like that, away from everyone and distractions.
"Good, good. See? I knew you were the perfect King of the dead." continued Zeus.
"I don't believe you called me here just to flatter my remarkable job, am I wrong? What do you want, Zeus?"
The God of thunders smirked and approached the edge of the terrace and looked down at the earth.
"Straight to the point. As always. I like that about you brother." said Zeus, pleased "I need you to keep away the terrible death from one I love."
"You mean one of your lovers?"
"She is my beautiful Leto, have I talked to you about her?"
'I don't keep a record of your endless list of mistresses, brother." Hades rolled his eyes again.
"I wonder whyâŚ"
"I know my vengeful wife will try to kill her, and my children; that's why I'm asking you: Keep death away from her and I shall reward you greatly."
Not waiting for an answer, Zeus patted Hades' back and went back to the party hall, where the music had changed and now could be heard a merry tune. The King of the Underworld sighed and went back inside as well, deciding to have at least one cup of mead or wine and then leave so his brother wouldn't have a reason to complain.
"I don't want your rewards. I want you to leave me alone."
"You hurt me, brother." Zeus faked offense "do it for me, and I'll keep my word to you. I'll grant you whatever you want."
Hades took her hand and brought it to his lips, placing a soft kiss on her knuckles.
Inside, most of the Gods were dancing, including Zeus and Hera, who had a smile on her face. Hades pitied the Goddess sometimes⌠being married seemed to be a curse instead of a blessing, especially if your husband was Zeus.
"A drink, my Lord?" asked one of the cupbearers.
"Wine."
The cupbearer handed him a silver goblet filled with dark wine. Hades tasted it and he found it to be sweat and light.
Then he saw her and the world stopped.
Dancing among the crowd was one Goddess he had never seen before, lovely and beautiful at the same time, her smile could light up the sky alone and her round cheeks had a slight blush, probably from dance and drink. She was energetic and had an innocent aura around her, but also a deepness in her eyes. She wasâŚ
She was life.
Hades didn't notice he was staring at her, bewitched by her loveliness, until she crossed eyes with him, and the world stopped a second time, for she widened her eyes and gaped slightly. Even when her dance movements didn't stop, it seemed as if her mind had done so, her eyes never leaving him.
The music ended and everyone laughed and refilled their goblets with mead or wine, scattering through the large hall. Voices and laughter could be heard, but to Hades, no sound registered in his head. The Goddess was speaking to her previous dance partner, whom Hades recognized as the messenger of Olympus, and then left his side, approaching slowly to him.
She stopped right in front of him, but didn't say a word, only stared at him, a smile on her face and nothing but merriness in her eyes, as if she had found a treasure which was secret to the rest of the world. Hades didn't break eye contact, looking down at her, surprised by her boldness and⌠curiosity? Was that in her eyes? Didn't she know who he was? Didn't she fear him?
Another song started, this time by the Muse Euterpe, whose skill playing the flute was unrivalled. Her sister, Terpsichore, stepped in front of her and started dancing to the tune, slowly and gracefully, inspiring others to dance with her.
"Will you dance with me?" the Goddess asked, not shy at all.
Hades was surprised by her request, but recovered quickly from his shock and smiled. He gave his goblet back to one of the cupbearers and lifted his arm and she beamed, placing her hand on his, and then they both walked towards the dance floor, at the center, where no others had dared to step to join Terpsichore yet.
The other Gods made way for them, gasping and whispering as soon as they saw the couple reach the center, where the Muse smiled and retreated, so everyone could focus on them. Hades faced her and she smiled, taking his hand. The song changed its rhythm, turning into a rapid and merry song, where the movements had to be fast but precise.
The King of the Underworld had never danced with her before, but from the beginning their movements were perfectly in sync, their pace fast and sharp, but elegant. All the presents' murmurs disappeared, the music, the palace; to them, whose eyes were locked into each other's, only the presence of their partner existed. And that was enough.
There they were, dancing together for the first time, life and death, perfect for one another, though incomprehensible for the others, who kept watching the pair in silence. And they both knew, deep inside, that something had changed in them and that for some reason, existing without being together had no meaning. No words were said, but they knew it.
The music died and their senses woke up from the slumber they had got into. Hades came to a halt and so did she. They stayed there, unmoving, their fingers entwined from the last dance movement, but no desire to let go yet.
"What's your name?" he asked in a whisper.
"Persephone." She replied, smiling.
"PersephoneâŚ" Hades repeated, and smiled too.
His heart beat faster for a moment, loving the sweet but firm tone of her voice.
"Persephone!" Another voice interrupted.
Their own private bubble popped and then they were aware of the presence of others. Persephone looked at her right, finding her mother, frowning and approaching fast towards them. Demeter looked serious at her and the young Goddess let go of Hades hand, missing instantly his warmth.
"Demeter." he said, giving a small bow with his head.
"Hades." Demeter greeted back, though less politely "I appreciate the courtesy you had to dance with my daughter, though she is not the most skilled dancer." she said, rather stiffly.
"She is very skilled." Hades said, looking back at Persephone.
"I thank you again, now, if you excuse us." Demeter announced, pulling her daughter to follow her.
"It was an honor, Lord Hades." Persephone smiled.
"It was all mine."
She bowed and then walked alongside her mother. Music restarted and everyone went to the center, reluctantly at first after witnessing such a scene, but as soon as the gods started dancing, the previous event was forgotten.
Hades abandoned the dance floor and headed to the exit of the palace, deciding it was time to go back to his realm.
His carriage, drawn by two black pegasus, was waiting for him but before he mounted, heard hurried steps approaching.
"Wait! Lord Hades!"
It was Persephone.
"I see you escaped your mother's side."
"She'll survive." the goddess assured, frowning at first, but then smiling "I wondered if youâŚ"
"If I�"
"Would you like to meet again?"
Hades loved her blunt personality. She seemed to say whatever was on her mind to him. He thought about the proposal; he would love to see her again, in a different place, away from all the stares.
"When? Where?"
"Tomorrow night. At Enna's plains."
For the first time, he saw a shy blush appear on her cheeks and he felt his heart beat fast again.
It was Hades faultâŚ
"I'll be there."
"Till tomorrow night then."
He let go of her hand, unaware of the emptiness she felt by just being released from his gentle touch. She stood there, seeing him get into his carriage, the pair of dark pegasus taking off a second later, flying swiftly through the sky.
Persephone smiled and looked at the sky for a moment, sighing and feeling irremediable in love. She couldn't explain it and thought it was probably a caprice of hers, but⌠from the moment she laid eyes on him, she thought he was the most ethereal being among immortals in her eyes. The Goddess of spring was certain, Moiras had knitted her fate together to his.
"Do you know how desperate and pathetic you just looked?"
"I thought Demeter was my mother, not you, Hermes." Persephone rolled her eyes, turning around "I have enough with her watching over my every step, for you to join the vigilance."
The Messenger of Gods was behind her, his handsome face tight in anger. The Goddess of spring started walking back to the palace, not in the mood to deal with his childish accusations, but Hermes grabbed her right arm, stopping her.
"Let go." she ordered.
"You don't know what you're getting into, Kore." he warned seriously "Hades is not to be trusted. You should not get involved with him."
"And who are you to decide that? It is my choice and my choice only, to get involved with whoever I want to."
"I'm not my mother!" she exclaimed, shaking off his grip "also, I am not a child. Keep that in mind before you decide to meddle in my affairs."
"Your affairs concern me too."
"No, you're wrong there. We're friends Hermes, not lovers." Persephone stated firmly, looking into his eyes "know your place and stay there."
Without another word, she kept walking, not looking back once. Hermes froze where he was standing, his hand that was holding her arm, suddenly closing in a tight fist. He clenched his jaw and trembled, feeling furious. She had never been cold towards him, Persephone had always been nothing but good and sweet to him.
He would make the Underworld's ruler pay somehow. Yes, Hermes had to make him pay for stealing Persephone's love from him.
Leto is the mother of twin Gods Artemis and Apollo
Notes (in case you didn't know):
Enna was the region where it's said the rapture of Persephone occurred while she was picking up flowers with her nymphs.
Kore is also a name of Persephone, it means "the maiden".
A request for you, don't say no oh my my~!! (Yes, I just wrote that singing undercover in my head)
If this is ok with you and have time, can I have a smut story with Sehyoon, maybe slow but passionate/intense sex in the living room on a hot summer night? (Idk Air-conditioning isn't working or something so they ended up there xD meaning extra sweaty Sehyoon)
A.C.E Wow x Reader
Genre: smut
CW: smut, nice legs, couch sex
Rating: R
Word count: 1.4 k
A/N: It's not a Sehyoon fic, if reader is not into his legs. They are so fine. This is probably full of mistakes, but I hope you like it anyways!!
Summer in the city was the worst.The hot air pooled in the streets, heating up the buildings even more. Temperatures had been high the past few days and now the heat did not even leave your apartment at night. You closed the blinds in the morning before you left for work and opened the windows at night. That was all you could do at the moment.
The sun was already low in the sky, when your doorbell rang on this friday.
âHey.â
Your boyfriend smiled his shy smile on the other side of the door.. Sehyoon wore a tie dye t-shirt and shorts. His hair had gotten longer the past few months and he had tamed it with a headband.
âHi?â
Your surprise at his arrival showed in your voice. He had not told you that he was coming to visit. He came and you peck his lips.
âWhat are you doing here?â
He sat his backpack down next to the door and avoided looking at you. This was his âI have done something stupidâ reaction. You had seen it before. Like that time when he had broken one of your favorite necklaces.
âWhat happened?â
You tried to keep your voice neutral, but it did not come out that way.
âCan I sleep here for a few nights?â
His voice was pleading you not to ask why and reluctantly you did not. There would still be time to interrogate him later.
âSure.â
A bright smile broke out on his face and he hugged you. It was a bone crushing hug that forced the air out of your lungs.
âYou're the best.â
You cooked something -with Sehyoonâs creative(?) input- and took the food over to the couch table. Sehyoon had not stayed that often at your place, so it felt a bit odd that he was here and there was no set time when he would leave. On the other hand it was like a test run for living together. It was exciting and terrifying at the same time.
Sehyoon blew on his soup causing his glasses to fog up. They were the thick, round one he got not too long ago. The glasses made him look like a cute nerd.
âCan you turn on the aircon?â
Sehyoon wiped his face with a napkin. The hot soup had not helped with the temperature in your apartment. There was a problem.
âThere is no aircon.â
He stared at you and you stared back.
âWhat do you mean there is no aircon?â
Usually Sehyoon was the most calm and chill person, but now he sounded alarmed. You gestured at the room.
âThis apartment doesnât have one.â
He was going through all stages of grief in front of your eyes. He sank into the couch. You grabbed his shoulder and tried your best not to laugh.
âJust donât do anything that gets you warm and Youâll be fine.â
Under these circumstances, sitting on the couch and watching something was the best thing to do. However you had problems concentrating on what was happening on the screen. Your boyfriendâs legs were simply too distracting. He had always liked working out, but these past few months really showed. You loved his huge thighs and toned calves.
âYou can touch them, you know?â
Sehyoon looked at you over the frame of his glasses. An amused smile appeared on his face. He found it âfunnyâ how much you loved his legs. Unfortunately, he also used it to tease you by wearing shorts and flexing whenever he noticed you looking. You hated and loved every second.
He took your hand and placed it on his exposed thigh. His skin felt cool and a bit sweaty, but there was one sensation that was stronger than everything else. The strong muscles in his thighs made you feel things. You swallowed and shifted in your spot on the couch. Your throat felt dry, but it was the opposite between your legs.
âSehniâŚ?â
Your voice was quiet, but even to your ears it sounded pressed and barely restrained. You did not want him to hear what you felt. So naturally, he knew instantly.
âHm?â
He pretended that he did not know what you were about to say.
âCan you... fuck me hard?â
Sehyoon looked into your eyes with a small smile on his face and Instead of an answer his lips landed on yours. The kiss was sloppy and surprisingly sweet.
Your back settled on the couch and Sehyoon was between you legs. You took your top off, but left the bra on. He loved it teasing your nipples through the material and exposing your breasts without taking the bra off. You would probably be thankful for the support later. He got rid of his shirt and it did not help with the situation between your legs. Sehyoonâs arms were your other weakness. He pushed his hair back, a motion that was clearly only there to make you go insane. His arms were as big as you had ever seen them and he looked simply fantastic. You wanted to shut your leg and at least get some friction to your clit, but his hips were in the way.
He smiled an almost evil, but definitely smug smile, that needed to be wiped off his face. You let your hand land on his stomach and wander down until you reached the tent in his underwear. The contact made him groan and his eyes fluttered shut. You palmed him through his underwear and enjoyed his lovely moaning. Putting the condom on with your mouth earned you a particularly desperate one. You give him a few bobs of your head and licks before pulling back.
âFuck me now.â
It was a demand and Sehyoon was happy to oblige. You lay back down. The fabric of the couch was a bit scratchy but you would survive. He entered you with ease and you left out a sigh. You had been waiting for this. A few slow thrusts gave you time to adjust. He leaned forward and held his weight with his arms. Looking into his eyes while his hips moved against you, pushing in and pulling out, was one of the most intimate things.
The couch was not widest, but it worked. You wrapped your arms around his neck and kissed him. His tongue explored your mouth, while his hips began to pick up speed. You ran your hands over his broad back, loving the feeling of his soft skin.
His hips halted. Sehyoon sat up and ran his hands over your chest, giving your breasts a squeeze. Sweat covered his body and ran down his chest.
He grabbed your hips tight. You did not particularly like it to have marks, but today you would not mind. His thrusts came faster and harder now. Every time your hips met your release came closer. A tension built up in your whole body. You held your breath as if that would keep the tension from escaping. Sehyoon groaned and his thrusts became more erratic. He leaned forward, supporting his weight with his arms as he buried his face between your breasts. The angle changed and you clenched around him. It was perfect. Just a little more. Sehyoonâs hips snapped against you, hitting your sensitive clit with every pushing in. His moan and last few hard thrusts pushed you over the edge.
For some heartbeats there was only your breathing and the tv, that no one had bothered to turn off, audible in the room. You kissed the top of Sehyoonâs head. He still rested his head on your chest, even though his breathing had calmed down. For him there was no better place to be than there. You petted his hair and ran your hands over his back. It was nice to feel his weight on you but he was getting heavy now.
âLetâs shower and go to bed.â
Your shower together was too cool for your taste but Sehyoonâs kisses made it bearable. You dried each other off with fresh towels and went to your bedroom. The sun had set and you opened the window.
Sehyoon lay down on the side of the bed he always used when he was here. You settled down next to him and rested your head on his chest.
âWhy can you not stay at your place?â
You made sure not to sound accusatory. It was nice to have him stay here. Even if it was just for a few days. He stared at the ceiling. The night air brought the sounds of the city outside into the room. You waited. Sehyoon let out a sigh and said:
âI broke the aircon at my place.â
A/N: I always forget that other countries don't have windows that you can only half open like we do in Germany XD (So countries have them too but idk if sk has it lol but that's what i imagine when i say sleep with the window open. )
Letâs dive right into our second ACEWRITERS Event! Active from May 23rd to June 13th weâre so excited to see what our team of talented writers comes up with for this theme: GRECO ROMAN WRITES
- Are there any stories from Ancient Greek or Roman mythology that youâve always loved, or perhaps any of the gods and/or goddesses that catch your attention? Well this is the perfect time to dive into that passion and create a story of your own!
- Of course, you can be as mythically to the book as you want or absolutely let your creative license run free! All up to you!
- No restriction on number of entries
- No restriction on the word count
PLEASE NOTE ââââ
- Follow the regular guidelines and rules for the submissions
- Donât forget to us the #grecoromanwrites tag when you post
- All of the following information should be included above the Read More cut:
Event title along with your pairing, genre, and word count
Mention the inspiration (myth, gods, and/or godesses) youâre choosing for the fic
A short summary
- Please note that this is an event for only ACEWRITERS writers only.
- Make sure to reblog this post.
We hope youâre just as excited for this event as we are!
For reference or ideas to get the ball rolling, here are some myths, gods, and goddesses! (Your writing does not have to come from this list, as long as it is within the Ancient Greek and/or Roman worlds!)
- Zeus/Jupiter: King of the Gods
- Poseidon/Neptune: God of the Sea
- Athena/Minerva: Goddess of Wisdom
- Aphrodite/Venus: Goddess of Love
- Pandoraâs Box
- Perseus and Medusa
Just a bit of a note, some myths can contain materials like violence, death, and sexuality. Theyâre not in every myth but these themes can surface occasionally, so if youâre uncomfortable with any of these please use caution while looking around.
Molten rock that still has to surface. You're the perfect mix of fire and earth, and your story shows it, having the best of both worlds. You're the writer that holds fire on their fingertips and kisses their lovers goodbye in the most painful way. You're able to build long stories that burn on the inside. You break the human soul, touching with infinite grace the right cords. You are an artist of the elaborate pain and heavy angst only a constructed and long story can give. If i could see in your eyes, i would be looking at your soul dancing on an unstable floor, flames all around it, to protect it and to forge it. Your love burns hot and infinite inside of you, and sometimes, when it slips out, you're afraid that it could burn too much. But the right people will know how to love you, and every bright tongue of fire your soul is made of. Your stories are the ones that make the world change.
This quiz result gives me so much credit for fanfiction writing xD
love at first sight or slowly growing fond of someone? love letters or mixtapes? hand kisses or kisses on the cheeks? understanding each other without words or finishing each others sentences? gazing into each otherâs eyes or looking away blushing? longing to be with someone again or spending every second together? laughing together or crying together? someone run their fingers through your hair or gently playing with your hand? surprise kisses or long tight hugs?