Son of Hades
PAIRING | p.js x g.n reader x ft. taeyong
GENRE | angst fluff
WORD COUNT | 12.8k
NOTE | this has been rotting away in my wip for more than a year. endings is a little rushed but I hope it’s okay enough.
WARNING | depictions of parental abuse, bullying, and character death
SONG | welcome to the show - dpr ian
SUMMARY | Park Jisung had always been quiet about his godly parentage especially because of his powers still trying to adjust to his body after years of living in the underworld. His only friends were Zhong Chenle and his partner from the Hephaestus group. Somehow, Jisung stumbles in your path and wonders if the blush on his face is as noticeable as he feels it to be. You find yourself caught in a whirlwind of shy glances, pretty smiles, and awkward greetings that make Jisung wonder if you feel just as he does. His heart breaks a bit knowing your Y/N, Artemis’ greatest hunter. Not only that but he feels a strange presence attach itself to him. He wonders if you’ll remain loyal to your oath or if he could become the one you’d leave it for.
The world taught children to fear the monster under their bed. To quiver with unspeakable fear or to scream their throat raw to be saved. It didn’t matter what it was or what form it took, repulsion clawed its way up. The monster was to be feared and rejected. However, the little boy who had no one to turn to had become well acquainted with the monster. Its name was Suffering and it curled itself deep within the boy's chest, rested there, and snarled at any attempts of riddance.
The child was not like any other. Even among his kind he considered himself an outcast. Humankind would call it a power, demigods a gift, but for Park Jisung it was a burden. Perhaps if he had been born as a mere mortal he could have had a chance at a normal life. But his dealings with all he came to know were as his bloodline meant for it to be. Suffering was simply a byproduct of his upbringing.
It is said that children born of Kronos’ eldest son had to accept a life of sadness and pain. It was a curse to be related to the King of a dreadful realm. People feared having to be judged for all their doings and having to be assorted. As much as the King would have liked for people not to dislike him so, he knew it was futile. He was no god of skies, oceans, or music. He was Hades, King of the Underworld and would remain so for all eternity.
Overtime, these feelings became trivial. Hades had accepted the role he had to play among the Greek gods. If anything, he rather enjoyed being away from all the dramatic antics of his brothers. He also preferred the stronger ratio of monochromatic colors compared to the blinding golden swirls of Olympus. Contrary to popular belief of mortals, the Underworld was not visually horrifying. Those tortured souls that screamed in agony were sealed to Tartarus alone. In the same sense, the happy and joyful voices remained in Elysium.
Every day had felt the same to Hades until the birth of his son, Park Jisung. He knew that his parental skills were not perfect and lacked in certain aspects. His godliness did not immediately assume perfection. However, that had not stopped him from trying. Years ago he had a son who taught him a great deal about being a proper father. He would be ashamed to let the child know he had repeated his mistakes. Alas, it would always be trial and error when it came to humans.
The mortal identified as Park Eun was the mother who hardly tried to raise Jisung. In her youth she was a tempter, a sin disguised as an embraceable beauty. Those who caught sight of her could testify that they had been drawn to her from the very first sight. They saw her as a pious woman. A loving heart with a gentle hand. It was why Hades searched for her believing she would be suitable to nurse his future son. Little did he know, that woman had no ounce of love for anyone but herself, much less any motherly instincts.
It began as a slow and formal courting. Hades had also a way of presenting his own charming qualities that instead of outweighing Eun’s own beauty, was unified with hers. The two of them standing alongside each other was a sight to behold. They were the object of everyone’s gossip, compliments, and jealousy. Eun had relished in this, holding her head high with immeasurable pleasure. Hades had only begun to observe this time after. When he realized her true self it was far too late, what seemed to be the ripe apple he had chosen was rotten from the inside.
Eventually, Hades had to reveal his true nature, knowing that she carried his son. When the truth came out, he saw the greed that shone in those hazel eyes. She wanted more, implored him to give her everything she dreamed of. But seeing his actions and responses to her made her believe that she was being confined to a “lesser” life than she deserved. The mansion, selections of jewelry, and expensive brands weren’t enough for her. She needed everything to fuel her grandiosity.
In her descent into madness she became another person entirely. One that was true to her selfish ambitions. The bright hazel eyes became dark and angry. Her luscious painted red lips mirrored a smeared and bloody mess. The graceful posture she once held curled into that of a taloned creature.
Screaming ensued, matches that Hades would always end with silence though he knew all too well he lost. He could never win against her because it was his mistake for falling in her trap. Knowing he could no longer bear to stay at her side, he left to continue his godly duties as King of the Underworld. It tore at his heart when he had to accept that he could not take his son with him. Not yet at least.
The most Hades was able to do was hire a small staff to overlook the home, Eun and Jisung. At first, Eun avoided the baby at all times. She resorted to going out, losing herself in gambling and drugs. The mansion became less of a home and more of a prison. As the years went by she found a means to release her emotions in the form of her growing son. Jisung had been the spitting image of Hades with his black eyes and pale skin. He reminded his mother of the life and man she could no longer have.
It was her greed and arrogance that caused her insanity. A woman who once glorified herself had become destructive. Everything she ever wished for came down all around her, Jisung being the only one who remained. She couldn’t stand looking at him. Especially when there was a trace of happiness on his face. Hades had taken away all she wanted to keep her content and so she retaliated by doing the same to him.
Jisung was much too young to remember the change in scenery. The limitations of food and basic necessities had become the norm he knew. In the little downtown that his mother forced them into, he had become a punching bag for all. He was scrawny, barely strong enough to stay awake after beatings from bullies. His mother had also taken to beating and verbally abusing him. As the older children simplified it, he was a waste of space.
~
It was all so…tiring. The beatings, judgments, harsh words, and cruelties. In the end, Jisung had sadly accepted that he was a burden, a punching bag that served to make others feel better. He didn’t process how inhumane it all was. A child who had only known darkness and nothing more. Jisung eventually thought it was okay because everyone else was sad and the only way to make them feel better was for him to take their sadness away, even if only temporarily.
Jisung felt that although his mother constantly committed atrocities towards him, he had to love her. She was his mother after all, the one who brought him into this world. She was the only family he had known. Besides that, all the storybooks at his school depicted the relationship of a son always loving his mother. It never did quite display what he was used to but he knew better than to question anything. However, it was at the tender age of ten that Eun did something that shattered any ounce of respect Jisung tried to hold..
In those horrid years, Jisung’s only source of true happiness were visits to his grandfather’s home. The man had doted on Jisung, rightfully leaving him starved for more affection. Whenever Jisung would close his eyes years later, he could remember the thin fingers that ruffled his hair adoringly. It wasn’t often that Jisung would visit but when his mother decided to go he was allowed to accompany her. Of course, he knew why his mother would let him tag along. Shamelessly she would beg for money, giving excuses of not having enough to maintain and feed her little boy. Embarrassingly enough both child and grandfather knew better.
Eun was the woman he had tried to raise and steer to the right path. A man of his age should have not felt the overwhelming anger that surged at the sight of the broken family. He knew of the father who had left. He couldn’t blame him entirely for not being able to stand Eun but he could never forgive him for leaving his grandson to fend for himself.
Jisung’s grandfather could not sit idly as she begged for things he knew would never land in the boy's hands. This was how Jisung learned to hide things extremely well from his mother at a certain point in his life. His grandfather was adamant when he explained how any bits of money he’d give him could not be seen by Eun under any circumstance. Jisung had respected his grandfather greatly and listened well to his words. It remained their little secret that had never reached the light.
Eun would sometimes curse her father for not caring enough and he would blatantly tell her that Jisung should be in his care. Just as she did with Hades, she would not allow anyone else to take Jisung to spite them all. She needed her little punching bag; if she couldn’t be happy anymore neither could her son.
The broken relationship between mother and son took its final course after Jisung’s grandfather died. He had passed away peacefully in his sleep. Jisung had heard it from his mother after she locked herself in her room for a few days. He remembered the instant denial. Tiny hands clutching painfully at the edges of his worn out shirt. He couldn’t believe it at first. It couldn’t possibly be true. Not his grandfather of all people. In that moment, through all the choked sobs, he had a sickening thought he never dared to tell anyone. He wished that his mother had been the one that died that night.
Jisung was distraught, confused, and in pain. He cried for long hours and barely ate. He avoided his mother at all costs because she couldn’t make him feel better. He knew his mother was upset too. He had never witnessed another time in his life where his mother genuinely felt anything for anyone other than herself. He almost thought it impossible but was surprisingly proven wrong.
It had all happened slowly and silently on a cloudy evening. Hazel eyes that Jisung could only remember as angry were filled with sadness and remorse. He could see her silver dyed hair swept to one side of her face. The porcelain doll under the rising moon was what she reflected. They sat together, for the first time, in front of his grandfather's gravestone. It was the only place his mother bothered keeping clean and regularly changed the flowers.
Jisung wondered why people felt so sad all the time. Truthfully, he was getting tired of feeling it. He felt an unbearable emptiness inside of himself. Something incurable. He wondered what would bring his mother happiness. If he could see inside her mind, he would learn that all she dreamed of was fame, richess, and everlasting beauty. Jisung offered nothing in comparison.
But perhaps contradiction was a characteristic that was in her genetics. As much as she claimed to hate and abhor the child she had given birth to, she couldn’t help but remember whose eyes those belonged to. At another time, Jisung could have sworn he saw a flicker of guilt in those cold eyes. He couldn’t have been quite sure, it wasn’t an emotion he could imagine his mother being acquainted with.
It felt strange the way she reached out to him, gesturing for him to comfortably sit on her lap. It was awkward but he couldn’t complain as her delicate fingers threaded themselves through his hair like grandfather would do. It was the first time she had let him embrace her. Her chin rested upon his head and his ear laid softly in her chest, listening to the gentle beating of her existing heart.
He couldn’t remember for how long they stayed like that, only that he had fallen asleep. When he woke up on the cold ground, his backpack and teddy bear perched on top of it, he panicked. His mother was nowhere to be seen. He called out to her once, then twice, and finally screamed until his throat felt raw. Among humans in a world so vast, they could all feel agony. They knew what it was to be afraid. But it was nothing compared to the innocent child whose face scrunched up in wild fear and hurt. Tears staining his face endlessly, hiccups loud for those to hear, hands bunched up in small fists, and sobs of a mother that would no longer hear him.
He was silenced at the sound of strange whispers that rose all around him. Opening his swollen eyes, blinking his surroundings into clarity, he saw a terrifying sight. Ghosts, shadows, skeletons, people with rotting flesh, all rising from their graves. Hands protruded from the ground, clawing out in a desperate need to escape. Jisung felt the feeling of throwing up that threatened to rise in him. He screamed louder, curling into a fetal position on his grandfather's grave. He couldn’t think about anything besides the fact that no one would realize he would be dead at the hands of the mangled corpses. For a while, he stayed there shaking terribly. He couldn’t hear anything at one point and when he opened his eyes he saw the figure of a man, flesh falling apart, body void of blood, bones protruding, and empty eye sockets staring down at him. He passed out from the shock.
~
When Jisung had woken up again he was in a bed that engulfed his small frame and was covered in black silk sheets. He couldn’t make out where he was or how he had gotten there. Blinking away his drowsiness he started to notice that the room was nothing compared to his shabby home. The room alone made up his entire apartment.
On the opposite of where he had been resting was a long six drawer dresser. A square mirror hung above it, his reflection staring back. He looked away immediately, avoiding his puffy and swollen eyes. Looking around the rest of the room Jisung noticed very minimal decor with what seemed to be kids toys grouped together in one corner. The only thing he could recognize was his backpack on the nightstand next to the bed and his teddy bear resting beside him. Before he could gather his things to escape the strange place he heard a knock on the door.
Jisung wasn’t sure what to expect. He felt frightened at whatever or whoever was behind the door. When a man came into view, Jisung felt a strange sense of familiarity. But that had to be impossible, he’d never seen this man in his life. He would remember someone who looked as charming as his mother used to be.
The man's complexion was pale, raven hair that was tousled in a voluminous mess, the back of it sticking to his neck and the rest covering his ears and eyes partly. He wore black dress pants and a collared dress shirt. He seemed to be someone who could cause fear but enchant at the same time. Just like his mother.
The biggest difference was the shy smile that graced his face as he stood by the door, not taking another step to avoid frightening the boy further. When his voice rang through the room Jisung was surprised to hear the softness that contrasted his cold appearance.
“Do you recognize me Jisung?” Jisung shook his head and observed the sad sigh that escaped the man in what seemed like a vague look of disappointment.
“Has your mother ever told you about me?” Jisung didn’t hesitate when, once again, he gestured a simple no. He pondered the question for a bit, curious as to who this person was. What relation did this man have to his mother? Was he going to harm him too? The man fidgeted awkwardly in his position, not knowing how to move forward but having to resolve the situation in some way.
“My name is Hades. I’m your father,” Hades didn’t know how Jisung would react. He wasn’t really sure there was a way to ease a child into a reveal like that. But he could see a recognition in Jisung’s eyes, the tears that welled, and his trembling lips forming the words he longed to hear.
“F-father?”
Hades’ gaze softened, walking up to the boy. Albeit slowly at first with hesitance but then clumsily did the boy stumble into his father’s arms in his haste. Hades let out a small grunt at the sudden attack and wrapped his arms securely around Jisung who dug his head deeper into his fathers chest. Hades let his cheek rest upon Jisung’s head, rocking him back and forth like a baby. He cooed at him, whispering words that reassured him that he was safe and most importantly, that he had someone who loved him.
~
Two years after being reunited with his father, Jisung had grown comfortable living in the Underworld. He learned a lot during the time he bonded with Hades. All the tales of gods, demigods, and other mythological creatures of Greek culture. When he turned twelve, Hades spoke to him about attending the Academy for Demigods. It was a place where all demigod children learned in more depth about their history and honed in their powers and skills. It was a rather prestigious school but it was also a home.
It was a great opportunity for Jisung. Especially at that time when he had learned to get past the intense fear he used to feel. His development changed for the better. He went from being malnourished and scrawny to a healthy person with renewed childness. Jisung would always understand sadness and pain in the world. But it didn’t dictate his life anymore. He was now free to be happy and engage in a better lifestyle.
That wasn’t to say he didn’t feel nervous starting school, he panicked a bit wondering what would happen. He didn’t know if he’d be able to make friends or if people would want to approach him with ill intentions. He was delighted to find out that no one paid any attention to him. Everyone went on about their business and he preferred it that way. However, he did appreciate the welcome from another student named Zhong Chenle.
Apparently, Hades had asked Hermes to have one of his sons guide Jisung during his time at the academy. He quickly recognized the playful and mischievous glint in his eyes but it seemed to dissipate as Jisung introduced himself. He garnered his affection rather quickly and soon enough the boys had become attached at the hip. Although he was disappointed that Chenle liked to mess around with people, he knew he was just like him. Chenle had gone through events in his life that shaped his view on the world. Just as Jisung’s views were changed by his childhood.
~
In his first few years nothing crazy happened. Jisung demonstrated to be studious in his classes. However, his strength was very average compared to other students. This was when the invisibility started to wear off and students took note of his skills. He took a long time to manage a sword decently. His reflexes were a bit slow as well. Sometimes he’d trip over his own feet and fall clumsily. There were students, mostly from Ares and Aphrodite’s side, that would laugh and mock him for not being able to hold himself up in a fight. He was a pitiful sight to behold in the eyes of his peers. A demigod who hasn’t been claimed and couldn’t keep up in a duel wasn’t much of a demigod to others.
Jisung had ignored them all. He knew who his father was, there was no need to make a grand show of being claimed. They weren’t worth his efforts or worry. He continued on with his life as he always had to. Some time after, Jisung realized no one stepped up to mock him, people ignored his gaze. He had a feeling it had something to do with Chenle but he didn’t question it. Still, even if they didn’t have the courage to say it in his face they did do it behind his back. Or at least tried to.
Years of training did help him but he wasn’t up to par with the well skilled students. Sometimes he’d watch Chenle spar with others and look at him in awe. Chenle knew what his opponent was thinking. He seemed to know where they would step, jab, or turn. He was too fast, sneaky, and dangerous. Even the Ares children had become frustrated with him always winning. Of course, Chenle lost his fair share of fights but it didn’t outweigh his wins in the slightest. In times like those, Jisung wished he could relate.
It wasn’t until he turned seventeen that his power started to slowly manifest itself in him. It began with a small shadow of someone's silhouette that moved across his wall. He wasn’t surprised when the shadow took the form of a ghost. When the black faded away from the silhouette, disappearing at its feet, he saw a boy around his age. He blinked at Jisung, a small smile stretching on his small face.
“Ah, you can finally see me. You are the young prince of the Underworld. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
Jisung felt strange at the title. Nevertheless, he stood up from his relaxed position on his bunk and walked closer to the ghost in front of him. He seemed young, too young to be dead. But Jisung knew death did not discriminate. It took anyone whose time was at its end.
“You don’t need to refer to me as such. You know who I am but I don’t know who you are?”
“My name is Shotaro. I was a student here some time ago. I can’t remember. Time after death doesn’t really exist. At least I don’t feel like it does. Well, that aside, there has been talk about your presence. It has been a very long time since another child of Hades was born. The Underworld has felt the awakening of your power.”
“It feels strange that you know so much about me.” Jisung put his hand behind his neck, rubbing at it shyly and awkwardly. Shotaro looks at him, nervous at having made the boy feel negatively.
“Yes, I know a bit of how this functions with demigods born from Hades. I have been around, hearing whispers. Your powers have been strangely dormant since you were born. But then they got better as you practiced. You have lived in the Underworld for some time and you have been trying to adjust to the mortal realm.”
“Sorry, I don’t mean to make you uncomfortable.”
“Awakening?” Jisung pondered that for a bit.
“Don’t worry, it’s just that you know more about me and I don’t know anything about you.”
“Oh…well I’m Osaki Shotaro. Apollo is my father. I was very talented in music. I was a very quiet student, much like you are. I had a friend, his name is Sungchan,” Jisung could feel some of the pain emitting from the boy's emotions as his eyes avoided his, “We used to do everything together. Play games, pranks, study and so on. I got sick one day and never got better. It was rather a slow death, hours turning into days. Days into weeks and weeks turning to months. I died a year later. I watched Sungchan mourn me.”
Jisung doesn’t say anything, gesturing for the boy to continue. Shotaro takes a breath before continuing.
“I’ve been watching over him since that day. I watched him get better but I can still see that look in his eye whenever he gets silent. He has a family now and he’s retired. I wish I could have said something.”
“Do you want me to pass on a message?” Shotaro’s eyes widened, his hands shaking in a gesture that rejected the idea.
“I wouldn’t want to bother you with such trivial matters. I was just rambling.”
“Hey don’t worry about it. In fact, I should be able to make your presence apparent to Sungchan. Father taught me how to do it but I wasn’t able to try it without an amplifier of some sort.” Shotaro looked near tears as he watched the boy in front of him. His offer was kind and the ghost knew it would probably be some more time until he could see his dear friend. Softly he whispers to Jisung, “I would really appreciate that.” And Jisung reciprocated with a smile of his own.
~
Jisung’s time at the Academy was uneventful for the most part. But he enjoyed every moment of it. He had a friend, a father, even a stepmother who loved him. Persephone was a kind goddess. And a very rightful Queen for the throne. He finally had a family of his own and truly, he couldn’t have asked for more.
Along the way, he did make a friend besides Chenle. They were the child of Hephaestus. He fondly remembered the journey they took together. Triple H as Chenle would jokingly call them. They were strong, ferocious, and knew how to put Chenle in his place. Jisung never said anything but he knew there was something off about them in the beginning. If the lack of a heartbeat was anything to go by. All he could do was observe them during the quest.
Jisung’s body had been weak since birth. His demigod powers had not properly adjusted to his body especially with all the psychological and physical abuse he’d gone through. It wasn’t until he started living in the Underworld that he had the opportunity to become stronger. He practiced all that his father taught him. Unbeknownst to him, his power had not reached its full potential. The time at the graveyard was a small power surge from the psychological overload.
During his time in the Underworld his powers kept growing. But as soon as he went back to the mortal realm his powers were harder to bring forth. This explained Jisung’s clumsiness and lack of stability in his fighting. It was as if the difference in the mortal realm was weighing down on him.
However, he was able to at least function enough to be a useful asset during the quest. Especially with his shadow travel. That was always fun to him but it drained him a little more quickly. But his power was enough to get Cerberus out of the cave Jungwoo had him in. Just remembering his name made him feel unusually angry. All that he made Chenle and his friend suffer was unforgivable. He could still visually see the pain in Chenle’s eyes when he walked through his father’s mansion, his friend’s arms and head dangling.
He knew what death was and although he couldn’t feel their heartbeat, he could understand the empty corpse that Chenle had in his arms. If he’d ask Hades to do something about the situation he knew his father would accept. But for the second time in Jisung’s life, Hades had denied him this. He argued with him for the first time. Hades had shut down his request almost immediately. It was after a moment of silence that Hades let the tension go, his hands limp at his sides.
Jisung, that demigod was not born of nature. That is one of Hephaestus’ many creations. I cannot bring life to them because they have no soul that I can place in their body. I would make this exception for you but I physically cannot do it. Hephaestus will help him. Do not worry yourself too much, death is only the beginning of another life here. You know this. In their case, they will walk among the living once again.
Still, Jisung felt upset and hurt at the turn of events. But it was later on that it became known of their return to campus. Their first stop was the Hephaestus workshops, a place where Chenle had found himself withering away day after day. Apparently, Chenle had almost lost his mind when he saw them, thinking they were a figment of his imagination. But it had been true, Hephaestus had fulfilled his deal and the friendly trio was restored.
Jisung was happy again. He was doing better with his life and he was grateful. It was all well again until he nearly got skewered with an arrow by you.
~
“For the love of the gods!” Jisung screamed, stumbling backwards and falling onto the ground with a pained grunt. His hands flew to his face and then his heart as he tried to calm down from the arrow that nearly left him lodged into a tree. His wild eyes looked around and then up to the person standing some feet away from him.
“Idiot…you…any idea…blind…” Jisung couldn’t process the words coming out of the person's mouth. They were blurred as the whistle of the arrow and his raging heart beat deafened his ears. He blinked a couple of times and then looked up again.
“Hey idiot! Are you even listening to me? Are you so blind that you’d fail to notice an archer right in front of you!?”
“Who…who are you?” You look at him, scoffing at his question.
You mutter under your breath, “unbelievable.” You grabbed him by his wrist and pulled him up much to his surprise.
“What does it matter to you?” Jisung was frankly starting to get annoyed at your attitude. His previous fear slowly morphs into a frown.
“It was just a question. I think you’d at least owe that much for almost killing me.”
“Well, if you had been looking where you were going instead of aimlessly wandering about with your head in the skies, maybe you wouldn’t have walked in my way.” Jisung wanted to throw something back but as soon as he opened his mouth, he realized you weren’t wrong. Entirely at least.
“W-well, you’re not supposed to be here! This is the academy’s forest training ground. It’s closed to outsiders.” That makes you scoff yet again.
“Dreaded academy. Confining yourselves to that little institution.” Jisung does take offense to that.
“It’s not dreaded…it’s a nice place.”
“You seem to be convincing yourself and not me.” Jisung gave a small pout which made you scrunch your face in disgust. You start walking away, without saying more but the boy you just met decides to walk in front of you. Raising his hands a bit at his sides as if trying to stop you. You could almost laugh at his ignorance.
“Are you serious?” Jisung blushes. Perhaps it was his curiosity or maybe those pretty almost silver eyes of yours, but he meant it when he wanted to know who you were.
“You still haven’t told me who you are.”
“I don’t have to tell you anything.”
“Considering you almost killed me, I think you could at least tell me your name or what you’re doing here?” You glared at him. You could hear the underlying message of getting in trouble with the Academy. Of which you’d rather avoid.
“Artemis…I’m one of Artemis’ hunters. And we don’t particularly take to little demigods like you. So get out of my way and go back to your little dollhouse.” This time you weren’t so patient or kind as you pushed the boy out of your way. Still, he watched you as you disappeared into the forest. So mean for someone as cute as you.
~
You weren’t very well known among demigods. And you liked to keep it that way. But that didn’t mean they didn’t know of your other…persona. The Moon Hunter. Stories told of a hunter who was incredibly strong, quick, and lethal. Those sharp eyes of yours could see just about anything and calculated within seconds. You were a dangerous person even among demigod standards.
Artemis’ hunters were a group that vowed loyalty and swore off romantic pursuits of any kind. They dedicated their lives to hunting and keeping monsters at bay. They took care of each other and became a true family. But with this oath came another promise. The promise of immortality.
You couldn’t remember exactly how many decades you lived through but you adapted pretty quickly to the changes. Nothing less could be expected from the famed Moon Hunter. But even then, the name started to become a stranger to you. As if though, that person was someone else. A person you used to know who would take joy and pride in their work. But you? You had become a hollow shell of the former. Days went by, feeling prolonged and repetitive. Boring and useless.
You continued to practice even though your skills were by far the best anyone could ever dream of having. You had left the other hunters to journey on your own, much to their sadness. But they could only let you do what you wished, they still yet had not understood your aging pain. In this journey of silence, you met the boy who had his head in the skies.
Or moreso in the underworld. His skin was pale, eyes a little sunken, and hair a floppy mess of raven black. You noticed the weakness in him immediately. As if though his body was not yet properly maintaining the chaotic power in him. But you could tell a child of Hades when you saw one. He rarely did have any children, being possibly the most responsible in that aspect among his two brothers. This demigod though seemed different from the last one you’d seen years ago. More of a childlike aura to him. He was stupid enough to not watch where he was going.
You put those thoughts away as you walked on. After having left the forest you made your way back to the small home over the mountain. The mountains were what separated the academy from the outside world. You weren’t a fan of the institution but you had made a promise to someone that you would move on with life and live calmly. And you acted upon those wishes because there was nothing more for you to do. At least that’s what you believed.
~
The second time you were found, Jisung was more aware of his surroundings. The boy had been left curious by you. And his curiosity was one that he wanted to fulfill. Every day he’d take a walk around the forest, hoping to find you again. But you never did show up so he decided to wander a little farther. This time he found you making more arrows for your bow. You didn’t have to look up to know of his presence. But you didn’t ignore it either.
“You find me once again. You avoided having your head in the clouds?” Jisung reaches out to push the hanging branch in his way and steps out into the open space you were in. He observed the pile of silver arrow tips among other supplies neatly placed on the wooden work table next to you. You look up at him, bringing your motions to a slow stop.
“H-how’d you know?” You go back to putting your arrows together.
“Let me guess, you feel sick to your stomach just thinking of traveling by sky?” Jisung blinks, surprise shadowing his features.
“A son of Hades. I could tell what you are from the moment we met. Now why is it that we’re meeting again? I’m getting the impression that you’ve purposely seeked me out.”
“I’m not very fond of clouds to be honest.”
“I- well…I was curious about you. You seem different from the people I’ve known. And you’ve managed to pass through the academy’s barrier. Not only that but you also know who my dad is.”
“Such useless thoughts. Instead of asking so much why don’t you just go back? There’s nothing for you here and I’m not worth being curious about.”
“I would hardly say you’re not worth it, if so I wouldn’t be here.” It almost surprises you, the little quip.
“I’ve heard about Artemis’ hunters. You trade a life of partnership and romance for immortality. That doesn’t seem entirely fun. If anything, it feels quite long does it not?”
“It’s a relaxing lifestyle.” Jisung doesn’t move from his place. If there was one thing you could admire of him was the way he was trying to read you without being read himself. His eyes were quite difficult to discern beyond the growing curiosity. But you see a small, kind smile tug at the edges of his lips.
“Isn’t it lonely?”
“Lonely is not bad at all. As I said, it’s rather relaxing.”
“I know what it is to be lonely. In a world where anyone could care less. In a place where things stop to matter. It’s not fun. Nor is it relaxing. If anything, it’s dreadful.” You want to snap the arrow in your hand in half but refrain. Just what was it with this kid and why was he talking so much?
“I didn’t ask for your life story and I’m the last person you should be trying to pitch your advice onto. I’m past the age of needing advice.” Jisung simply smiles at you, this time he does walk closer. His hand comes up to place something on your bench and you glance at it.
“I bought you something to drink. I wasn’t sure what you liked so I bought a few different ones. You seem to be the type to wander alone. I think you could use some company.” He ignores the annoyed sigh that escapes you.
“I think you’re painfully dense. I don’t need-”
“I’ll come by again tomorrow. I hope we can be friends.”
“I don’t need friends!” Jisung laughs oddly with optimism at your sudden outburst.
“I’ll see you tomorrow!” And with that he joyfully bounces away leaving you with a now snapped arrow and a growing headache.
~
Jisung kept true to his promise. He came back frequently to see you. It became part of his routine to visit you that even Chenle started taking notice. At first it was nothing. Jisung would disappear for an hour or two. But then it became an almost everyday thing. He could visually see the happy glint in his eyes. It made him question just what was going on in Jisung’s life at the moment.
When he confronted his friend about it he was surprised to see how quickly he opened up. He had met a hunter of Artemis and had been meeting with them. He called them a friend. Chenle was happy for Jisung, seeing how he was making more connections outside himself and his partner.
He noticed the little smiles, the gifts he’d make, the blush on his face whenever he brought them up. His friend was undoubtedly falling in love. And although he supported the idea, there was something that concerned him. Jisung was a kind person, he was a caring person indeed. And it was completely plausible that he had fallen in love with this hunter. But after a year of being acquainted with the hunter, there was a subtle change in Jisung’s affection that didn’t sit right with Chenle.
For starters, Jisung wasn’t exactly the best when it came to art. As far as Chenle knew, Jisung never picked up a paintbrush in his life. But on a particular day that he’d walked into their dorm he saw a beautifully painted person on a canvas. Jisung being the artist in control of the paintbrush. The second part that felt weird was Jisung’s use of language. Sometimes he would slip into a different accent. Say words that felt too proper. There was something definitely wrong and he had to find out why.
Chenle being the person he was, tried of all different ways to find out what was going on. He started to follow Jisung around. Whether it was walking with him to morning classes or trailing him to the Hephaestus workshops where he frequently seemed to be creating something. Even his partner had a say in all of Jisung’s frequent visits.
“Chenle, I think there’s something wrong with Jisung.” Chenle sighs, a look of concern blooming.
“I agree. Have you noticed how he’s been speaking? It sounds like he came out of the 1950s. And the hobbies he’s taken up? I know for sure one can’t learn how to paint like that in the span of a week. I don’t even know how long it took him to do it.”
“I think…look it might sound weird but it’s the only conclusion I could make that is sensible.”
“You’re kinda scaring me.”
“I think Jisung’s being controlled by a ghost.” Chenle looks up, eyes wide. His mind starts to play back everything that’s happened since Jisung’s turn in character. If he applied this logic, it fit extremely well. Jisung’s never been one to paint, he’s never spoken in any other accent other than his own, making crafts was also something Jisung never showed interest in. Even when it came to his fighting style in class, it had radically changed. He wasn’t as clumsy but instead of using his right hand he’d use his left. There were just so many things that have changed.
“If it were true, how would we go about it? I don’t think the ghost will tell me who they really are.”
“I’ve already made a contraption for this. I need Jisung to walk into a metal cage I’ve made. It’s invisible but once he steps inside and I seal it, I can separate the ghost from his body. They’ll be completely divided and Jisung might have an answer on what to do afterwards.”
“Okay but how do we get him to walk into it? Jisung can sense things around him. He’s sensitive to all around him, it’s also why he has trouble controlling his powers.”
“I’m 99% sure that he won’t notice but just in case we’ll have to create a scenario where the object of his affection is in perilous danger to the point where he won’t notice. The only way to do that is to inform this person. You have to follow him to where they meet.” Chenle looks at his partner, mischief written all over his eyes. Of which he receives an eye roll in response.
~
You could no longer remember how long it had been since Park Jisung had crossed your path. He kept coming back even if you pushed him away. He treated you as a friend even if you didn’t reciprocate. You would say it was taxing but really, you started to grow fond of him. Instead of the usual jabs at his clumsiness, you started teaching him how to fight better. There was an understanding that the mortal realm had its effects on Jisung’s body and powers. He had been trying to get accustomed to it but it was a slow process.
However, after a while, the more you had practiced with him and lectured him on important topics like hunting, using your surroundings to your advantage, and how to cook, the better Jisung had become. At an alarmingly quick pace but you didn’t think too much about it. He’d ask for your critiques and advice frequently of which you were surprised he accepted kindly.
But among it all, you knew that there was a change in your relationship with the boy. Jisung had become…different. Yes of course you’d expected his clumsiness to lessen after practicing beside you. However, Jisung had surprised you on certain occasions and that was something that people ever rarely got to brag about. Standing in the training area of your yard, you began teaching Jisung how to use your bow and arrow. Before this you started with sword lessons but after seeing his improvement you let him move on to use your bow.
“You have to concentrate on your target. Pay attention to your target but do not ignore your surroundings. Steadily hold it,” you help Jisung position the arrow, “now aim and…let go.” The arrow zipped through the air, landing exactly in the center of the target you placed on the tree ahead of you. Jisung let out an excited gasp looking back at you. He had been hyper aware of your proximity before but had underestimated just how close you really were. When he came to face you, your face was a mere few inches from his. From where he was he could see the beautiful specks of color in your eyes, the shape of your parted lips, he could even hear your faint breathing. His eyes had flickered to your lips, imagining just how nice it would feel to kiss you.
You cleared your throat, backing away from him swiftly and murmuring a good job. But he smiled, looking down to the ground realizing the unmistakable blush of your cheeks. When he looked back to you, you were cleaning up the practice area and avoiding his stare.
“Would it truly hurt you to look into my eyes?” You don’t stop moving, trying to avoid where the conversation was headed.
“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” At this Jisung lightly scoffs.
“You cannot deny that there is something between us. I have come here many times not only grateful for your teachings but also simply to see you. I know you feel something for me too.” In a rise of frustration you throw the equipment you had in hand onto the table, turning to look him in the eyes just as he wanted.
“Jisung, I’m not sure what you want from me. I’ve welcomed you as a friend and nothing more. I’ve let myself accept you because you were right, I was used to being alone for years, decades really. And I appreciate your company. But I am Artemis’ hunter and I do not wish for a romantic relationship. I prefer my immortality as is.” You could see the frustration growing in those dark eyes. The way he wants to say more but doesn’t. Instead he walks up to you, gently handing you back your bow. He walks away but not before whispering closely in your ear.
“You loved me once Y/N. Don’t you remember? We made a promise but it seems you’ve forgotten. I may not look the same but I know you can feel the difference.” Jisung looked into your eyes a little longer and smiled. You felt a cold prickling throughout your body. The silence around you deafening as Jisung walked away into the forest, leaving you alone with your thoughts and the painful memories of the name you uttered softly.
“Taeyong?”
~
The young boy had been a mere mortal. He was no son of the Greek gods but he was surely recognized by them. His features had been too beautiful to ignore, to not look at. Everywhere he went, he was doted on. Watched with fascination and adoration. He didn’t pay it any mind though. At five years old, Lee Taeyong just wanted to play with his friends and enjoy meals with his parents. He was a caring boy, full of sensitivity for others and love.
It was how you became attracted to him. You had grown up besides Taeyong since birth, both families having been friends since their teenage years. You had gotten accustomed to Taeyong’s cute hugs, soft kisses on the cheek when you scraped your knee or started crying. You were only five but you understood the feeling of love that soothed your chest. People liked each other and they got together because of love.
The two of you were inseparable. Truly aligned soulmates that were meant for each other. At twelve years old, you went to the school dance together. Although all the kids ran around and played, you stood beside Taeyong for the remainder of the evening. Giggling, laughing, talking about anything that came to the mind of a twelve year old. It was when Taeyong asked if he could kiss you on the lips. You were flustered to say the least but accepted the request willingly. It was weird but a good type of weird. You nervously held onto his hand and he brought them around his waist. His hands moved up to hold your face, just as he always did when he’d kiss you on the cheek.
You were just kids but you never forget that night. After that, you told him that you wanted to be his partner but that it would be nice to take it slow. Of the two, you were always the one who had a sense of clarity, perhaps maturity, when it came to relationships whether a friend or partner. As time went on, Taeyong had finally asked you out at fifteen. It was usually an awkward time for teenagers who had a lot to explore about the world and about themselves. But just as it had been before, everything felt right when you were with him. You didn’t explore the world on your own because you had Lee Taeyong by your side and you couldn’t ask for more.
It had been on a sunny day that Taeyong took you out to a local festival. Your arm looped around his, both of you wandered off into the streets where all the excitement was happening. Games were played, foods were shared, hidden pecks were exchanged. When it started getting dark he walked you home. But before you reached your house, he led you to the park that was around the corner. It was silent, the breeze blowing a bit, and distant laughter could be heard from the festival. You had walked ahead of him looking up to the stars and admiring them. The smile that was on your face was a sight that would forever be engraved in Taeyong’s mind.
“Y/N?” He called out to you softly and you turned back to look at him, responding with a little hum.
“Remember the day you said you wanted to go out with me but to take things slow?” A blush spread on your face, a shy smile making its way to your lips.
“Yes. What of it?” You were expecting it now. You were hoping for it and you weren’t disappointed.
Taeyong came closer to you, putting his hand out and softly asking to dance with you. It was a surprise but you couldn’t say it wasn’t entirely unexpected. Taeyong was a great dancer and a wonderful starting musician. His voice always soft and melodious in your ears. You placed your hand in his and let him close the gap between the two of you. He looked down into your eyes, infinite love within them and you only hoped he could see the same in yours.
“Y/N, would you grant me the greatest honor of being your boyfriend?” You couldn’t even speak, not with how tears of happiness welled in your eyes. Your heart was moving too rapidly, his words and his proximity being too much for you to handle. So instead of a verbal response, you gave him a kiss. Within that kiss, the both of you smiled, giggled, and sighed. It was your happily ever after. Lee Taeyong would always be your happily ever after.
It wasn’t fair. That’s what you told yourself repeatedly. But reality couldn’t deny the digression of Taeyong’s physical beauty and health. You couldn’t remember what he was diagnosed with because you refused to believe it. You refused to believe that the love of your life was dying and leaving you behind. He didn’t want to tell you, his first few weeks full of sobbing and painful headaches. He wasn’t ready to go, he was only twenty. He was looking forward to finding a nice little apartment for the both of you. But by that time, he had collapsed and his parents had to take him to the hospital. The diagnosis was Taeyong’s worst moment in life. But then he realized that he’d have to look into your beautiful eyes and tell you that he couldn’t be with you. And that had truly torn him apart. Why had fate been so cruel?
He didn’t want to tell you but avoiding you could have only gone so far. When you showed up to his door, his parents had let you in. You too had been crying. Phoning Taeyong was challenging because his parents had always answered instead of him. Visiting him was always rejected with apologies. But this time you didn’t take no for an answer. When you pushed his door open you saw him curled up on his bed. He was a complete mess, his hair sticking out oddly, his skin looking paler than usual, and those pretty eyes of his were puffy. A sign that he had been crying.
When he saw you he teared up again, shaking his head as he tried to tell you to leave. He didn’t want you to see him like this. But you put away all of your frustrations of his negligence and sat next to him. You reached out to him, pulling him up into your arms, and placing your forehead on his.
“What is wrong? Why are you like this? Please love, talk to me. You can tell me.” You tried to get him to talk but when those words came out he just broke down. You couldn’t remember how long he held onto you, all you could hear were his choked sobs and feel his tears on your neck. Taeyong had always found comfort in the way you ran your fingers through his hair and he realized that he missed you too much for words to convey. When the sobbing had ceased to little sniffles, Taeyong pulled away and told you everything.
You called him a liar. But you knew he wasn’t. You called him a bastard for trying to fool you with such a mean joke. But you knew it wasn’t true. Taeyong could only cry as he watched you fall apart. Hitting his chest, roughly rubbing at your eyes, your head shaking in denial. Finally, you both laid down next to each other, too tired from the tears. You asked him questions he wished he didn’t have to answer. He didn’t know how much time he had. So you made him promise that he would never avoid you like that again.
“Lee Taeyong, don’t you ever pull a stunt like that again.”
“I’m sorry my love. I am so sorry.”
“It’s better now. We have talked about it. There is only one thing left to do now.” Taeyong looked into your eyes that reflected his melancholy. He gave you a weak smile with a question, “And what would that be my love?”
“Enjoy our life together faster than anyone’s ever witnessed.” Taeyong didn’t know what he did to deserve someone as loving as you.
Ultimately, that was what you did. You moved into an apartment with the help of both your families. You did your best to work and bring what you could to the table. If it weren’t for the support of both parents you didn’t think you’d make it. But they understood the fear and the rush to enjoy life with Taeyong. He would become a fleeting moment and you wanted to enjoy him as much as possible.
Taeyong felt like he had burdened you. But everytime he had those thoughts or had that look in his eyes, you had to reassure him that you loved him no matter what. That he was stuck with you because you could never let him go. As Taeyong’s health declined you found that you couldn't work anymore. Taking care of him was now your priority. Towards the end of his life, Taeyong had to stay in bed, machines doing what they could to prolong his life a little bit more. But he knew his end was near and seeing you trying not to fall apart hurt him.
“You have to promise me you’ll fall in love again.” You didn’t want to have this conversation with him again.
“I don’t want to! Stop saying that please.” Taeyong could only watch as your heart fell apart so visibly through your tears. He whispered to you, voice barely strong enough.
“Darling, you need to live. You need to go on. You’re always so sad.” Everytime he started with this you’d cry loudly, grab at his hand and hold it to your heart. You knew he was weak, his body not strong enough on its own. You wished for him to understand that you could never love anyone the way you loved him. You’d always be the one to take his hand and put it against your cheek as you’d whisper everything you felt for him.
“I do not want anyone else! Stop trying to give me away. I only want you. I will never love anyone else like I love you Lee Taeyong. Accept it. Accept that I do not wish for any man in this world that is not you.” God did he want to, he loved how you wanted him so badly. But he knew it wouldn’t be right. However, to ease your sobs he made a promise.
“Fine then let us settle this with a promise. We will wait for each other. And when the day comes that we finally see each other, we will stay together for all eternity. I will always love you Y/N. I love you my darling.” Taeyong’s coughing started to take over him and you dreaded that this was the moment. You called for a doctor, for help, but Taeyong could only look at you with his last smile. You didn’t realize you were screaming until your mother came by to check on the both of you. She tried to pull you away but could only let go and cry as she watched you mourn the love of your life.
You didn’t want to remember life after that. You vowed to never pursue a romantic relationship again. You became cold and you knew Taeyong would have been upset to see the person you’d become. He took away with him all the love and warmth you had to give. Your vow is what brought Artemis to you. You learned from her all you knew and more. You became Artemis’ infamous Moon Hunter. You had to explain to your family what you had become. They believed it as they realized that you stopped aging. After, you mourned everyone else around you. Your parents, Taeyong’s parents, and your few friends.
When those you knew left, you vanished from that town and never looked back. Instead, you carried your duties. You continued on with life. And it may have been selfish because you knew Taeyong was waiting for you. You knew he had to be. But you were alone. You had no one else and your mental state had suffered greatly. Eventually, you put away your past and Lee Taeyong had become a buried memory within your heart.
~
There was a knock at your door. Walking away from the dishes you were washing you grabbed a rag to dry your hands as you walked to the door. Upon opening it there was a boy with mint green hair and clear eyes of a snake. You leaned upon the doorframe, arms crossed in front of you.
“And what do I owe the pleasure of meeting Hermes’ prodigal son?” Chenle eyebrows furrow confused as to how you know who he is. Before he can ask, you speak up again.
“Don’t ask how I know. I’ve been alive for so many decades I’ve become a book of secrets. And your little friend talks a lot about you. Now what is it you want, Zhong Chenle?” Chenle could see the bits and pieces of what Jisung had told him about you. The way you presented yourself, your silent disposition that was calculating. You were confident and unafraid. An interesting match for his friend who was a little more bubbly.
“I need your help. It’s Jisung, he’s been acting weird. I thought you might know or be able to help.” You laugh.
“You're a smart person. I think you already know what the problem is.” You push yourself off the doorframe and invite Chenle in. You let him settle in and bring him a drink of his choosing. Now settling on the opposite chair of the dining room table you sigh. Beforehand it wasn’t noticeable, but seeing you unwind for a moment Chenle sees that you are beyond tired. Moreseo mentally than physically.
“Who is it?” Chenle asks, getting straight to the matter at hand.
“His name is Lee Taeyong…” you hated yourself for feeling emotional but you knew how to control your voice, “he was my husband.” Chenle’s eyes widened in shock. He assumed he was a lover but for someone who seemed as young as you, a husband did not cross his mind.
“He died in his early twenties from an illness. We’d known each other all our lives. Madly in love and whatnot. We had our lives planned out, our entire future. But we found out he was sick and so I pushed for us to marry and live together. A love experienced faster than anyone’s seen. What I dreaded had become a reality and Taeyong became a distant memory. I vowed to never fall in love again and Artemis found me. Turned me immortal.”
“So that’s who he is. Hm, I did wonder how Jisung was able to paint so well. He’s never been into art and crafts.” You don’t look at him, remembering how much you loved seeing Taeyong’s work. You move on from his comment.
“How do we get him out of Jisung’s body? I assume you already have a plan.” Chenle starts to actually fear your intellect and reading abilities. It’s like you already knew how everything would pan out.
“My partner, their a child of Hephaestus. They’ve made a cage that will separate Taeyong’s soul from Jisung’s body. It’s invisible but we’re afraid Jisung’s body will react to it. We’re not quite sure how far possession goes in terms of connection of soul and host.” You wave your hand dismissively.
“Taeyong was mortal. Even if he could tell, Jisung would be made conscious of it and they’d fight for control. There were times he’d contradict himself but now that it’s confirmed I understand why. Jisung’s been awake the entire time. He’s been fighting for control but he’ll be able to get it back. How are we going to get him to walk into it?” At this the boy nervously laughs.
“Well we thought we’d have to create a scenario where you’re in grave danger. He’d only be focused on you and hopefully not entirely aware of his surroundings.”
“You barely know me and already treat me as bait.” Before Chenle could try and explain himself you put a hand up to stop him.
“I don’t care as long as they can be separated. The longer we wait the more problematic the situation can become. Tell your partner to bring their contraption. I will take care of the rest.” Chenle thanks you, informing you of the preparation of the contraption. Before he leaves he asks you a question you weren’t expecting.
“Will you be okay after seeing Taeyong?” You don’t look at him, instead telling him to close the door on his way out. Your facade was fading and you needed to come to terms with the painful piece that was your love. The one you buried under all the coldness and sternness that was your personality.
~
Jisung did not come back to you for about a week. You assumed it was to give some distance between the two of you. You felt conflicted but you knew what had to be done. You weren’t sure what it was that Chenle had said or done but Jisung was running hurriedly through the forest. He needed to find you. Apparently, there was a gadget of some sort that let you see another person. That was totally and not entirely Chenle’s partner’s many creations. It was a communication device and when he tried to use it, he saw you out in the open on the ground with what seemed like broken items around you. As if you were in a fight.
When Jisung walked into the open area where you were, he realized his mistake too late. The moment his foot stepped on the invisible trap, a glowing white fence formed behind him. He reached out to push it but retracted his hands when he felt a slight bolt of electricity. He looked around him, worried and panicked because of the cage and your body on the ground.
“Y/N! Y/N! Wake, please wake up!” He got as close as he could to the side of the cage that was facing you. He looked out with worried eyes, hands yearning to reach out to you. When he watches you move, he sighs in relief. Your hand comes up to clean away at the dirt on your face; looking up you stare straight into his eyes and you see some of the relief turns into confusion.
“Why do you stare at me with such eyes?”
“Tsk,” you shake your head, “when were you planning to tell me?” Jisung’s eyebrows furrowed.
“I do not understand what you are asking. I thought- I thought you were hurting?” You get up and dust yourself off, Jisung’s eyes following your every movement. You walk closer to him, sit down in front of him and observe.
“Taeyong.” Realization overcomes his expression, a sad smile playing on his lips as he remembers your last encounter with him.
“You do remember me.”
“It’s been decades, we may have known each other from a different time but I would be blind if I couldn’t recognize the boy I met and the boy I see now.”
“Have you always doubted me?”
“Jisung uses his right hand. You use your left. Apparently, he’s never picked up a paintbrush in his life,” Taeyong lets out a soft laugh, “and Jisung could have never known the lyrics to the song you hum all the time.” He can see that under that stoic mask, you’re hurting just like the first time. He wonders why fate had to be this way. All he wanted was to be happy with you but why was it that you always looked so sad.
“I am sorry for lying to you-”
“For how long?” Taeyong looks like his next words were too painful to say.
“Long enough for you to fall in love with him and not me.” You looked at him confused.
“I have only been in his body for three months. The Jisung you know was the one you fell in love with. And the one you questioned was me. He has a warm heart that was torn at too much. But he found guidance, family,” he looks into your eyes, “and love.” There was a time when you were drowning in happiness to just be able to talk to him. To be in his embrace. He was your first and who you wished to be your last. But the world had taken him away from you and you grew accustomed to not having him anymore. Hearing him now reminded you of the times where you were simply a mortal enjoying life and loving the boy who kept a piece of your heart.
“I mourned you Taeyong. I watched you die and I fell apart. But that was decades ago. Everyone left and I was alone. I chose this. So how and why are you here?” Taeyong scrambled closer, forgetting about the electric shock the cage caused. He flinched and moved his hands away.
“I was supposed to be judged by Thanatos. I know that but I was pulled away for some reason. I do not remember for how long but eventually, I saw you. You were different but I knew it was you. I was by your side for a decade but you could never see me. I guess I was not strong enough but Jisung came along. I practiced and practiced until eventually I was able to take hold of him. He fights me for dominance and I know, I-I know this is w-wrong-” tears escape you before you realize as you watch him break up in front of you, “but I needed to speak with you. I missed you so much. It has been everything I have ever wanted, being by your side and not feeling sick. I would remember all the things we used to do.”
“You can’t be here Taeyong. It’s been too long and although I loved you dearly once, I gave everything up to be here.” Taeyong looks like he wants to scream. All he wanted was to be with you. He knows he made you promise to move on with life but being with you for the past three months reminded him of all the other promises he wanted in life.
“A love experienced faster than anyone’s ever seen. We already lived it Taeyong. But you are dead. You need to move on just as I have.”
“But you promised you wouldn’t! You promised you promised me you wouldn’t! You said you could never love anyone the way you love me. Why can you not keep your promise to me? I am here just for you.”
“I do love you Taeyong, I do, please understand that. But I am no longer in love with you,” you watch him crawl away from you, pained not only from your words but the process of separation that was beginning, “we’ve been apart for far too long and I’ve made a life for myself.”
“You said we would wait for each other. Why would you choose to be immortal instead of being with me?” You feel guilty but there was truth in his words.
“I grew cold Taeyong. I was tired. But I do not regret anything between us. Your actual promise to me was that I’d move on and fall in love again. And I have. I will leave my immortality for Jisung because it’s true. I do love him. He’s been a friend to me in such a short time but he made me feel again. And if you’ve been there for me for so long, you know I have tired of this life. Hades and Thanatos will not be happy that you’ve taken over Jisung’s body. Only he will be able to get you in their good graces and forgiveness. I love you Taeyong. But you have to let go.” It hurts you the way he looks at you, the way Jisung’s facial expression reminds you so easily of Taeyong’s. He always looked like a hurt and wounded child. His teary eyes look into yours.
“Will I see you again?”
“Yes you will, Taeyong. I promise you that we will see each other again. No matter what happens, we will get there eventually.” And although Taeyong feels wounded and hurt, wanting to at least get a kiss from you, he nods in understanding, whispering his final “I love you” and letting go.
~
After Taeyong’s soul was separated from Jisung’s body he personally escorted him to the underworld. Neither of them said anything to you as they vanished. You were left to grieve once again. But this did not hurt as badly as the last. Although in your hurt and weakened state, you called out to Artemis. Wanting to get over all that has happened in the last hour. You hear her voice in your mind as you stare up at the moon that shone brightly.
Are you sure you want this? I cannot take you back into the group if you decide to give up your immortality for love.
Yes, this…this is what I want. I enjoyed my time as a hunter. And I will never forget everything you’ve taught me. But I realize now that I am not strong enough to remain this way. I grew tired and I wish to settle down and accept life.
Well then, it shall be as you wish. I will strip you of your immortality. But I will not make you into a mere mortal. I will give you the powers of a demigod and you will be blessed with the knowledge of Apollo’s children. My brother will take care of you just as I have. Be well my dear hunter, and may you find happiness in love.
Thank you mother.
The process of losing your powers wasn’t all that grand. You could only watch the light silver dust that swirled around you, taking away the immortality you had once vowed to keep. You felt lighter and more free than before. You could only wish that Taeyong could say the same.
~
Chenle had sent you news that Taeyong was able to make it into Elysium. You were relieved to say the least. But there was something else on your mind and he knew.
“He’s healing if that’s what you’re wondering. After everything, he said he needed some time to be away from people. He doesn’t hate you or anything. I know he misses you a lot.”
“He should hate me though. My dead husband possessed him for a few months. But he still let him get into Elysium.” Chenle could only watch you.
“You should enroll in the academy. You know, being Apollo’s kid and all.”
“You sneaky little snake,” you scoff.
“I didn’t see anything, I swear.”
“Liar, go away Chenle.”
“Enroll in the academy. It’ll be good for you and easier for Jisung. You’ve done a lot for him this past year but I know he’s done good for you too. He used to be scared of love. But you’ve changed that for him.”
You bid him goodbye as you walked back to your little cabin. Most often you were a person of very few words. But it took someone like Chenle or Jisung to understand what your silence meant. The microscopic expressions you’d make before turning away. You knew what you would do. You could only hope that everything would turn out well.
~
When you see Jisung again he almost falls over. He had been in his Demigod Healing and First Aid class. After the episode with Taeyong’s soul, Jisung’s inner balance was strangely put back together well. His powers had finally manifested properly in his body and he wasn’t as weak before. He knew it had to do something with that soul but he couldn’t figure out what. If Taeyong could see him now he’d probably laugh knowingly.
You had walked in, students whispering about the new student. Before anyone could offer you a seat you head directly to Jisung, plopping down next to him. You turn to him, elbow on the desk and chin settling down on your hand.
“What’s up lover boy?” Jisung blushes deeply all the way to his ears as he looks away from the gaze of other students. He ignores them all and looks to you.
“What are you doing here? I thought the children of Artemis didn’t attend the academy.” You hum.
“That’s because they don’t.”
“Then how are you here?”
“I’m officially Apollo’s adopted kid. No longer an immortal.” Jisung does a double take, words stuttering, and head shaking in confusion.
“I’m sorry, Apollo adopted you?”
“Artemis didn’t want to leave me as a mere mortal as I was before. Instead, she let me stay as a demigod. I guess she did me a favor.” There’s a look in his eyes, one you can’t read.
“Why would you do that?”
“Because I like you a lot. Well love but uh anyway. Immortality is boring and repetitive.” Jisung looks at you.
“You’re crazy, you know that?”
“Crazy in love.” Jisung gags and you let yourself laugh.
“Oh my gods. I can’t believe you confessed to me in a health class.”
“Love is a healthy thing in life, you know. Helps build relationships.”
“That’s the wrong type of health.” You look at him, surprised that he’s being a little brat.
“Huh, maybe I don’t know you after all. Where are these little quips coming from?” Jisung leans over to leave a quick peck on your cheek, leaving you surprised and him impossibly redder than before.
“I love you too.”
~
“Were you ever bothered by being able to know what Taeyong was doing?” Jisung hums, cuddling up next to you as the movie played on your living room television.
“I understood what he felt. Although we lived different experiences I knew that he loved you a lot. He felt it to be unfair, the card he was dealt with. But he said to me before he left, ‘Take care of Y/N. I loved them enough for one lifetime. Now you can do it instead.’ We all have something we have to move on from eventually. I know I had to.” Jisung thinks back to his mother, the one who although treated him terribly, he still kept a piece of his heart reserved for her. He thought back to everything she wanted in life. She could’ve had it all but it had not mattered in the end.
Jisung was simply content with having you in his arms, looking at him with those eyes of yours, dazed at the shape of your lips. That was what truly mattered. He knew that Suffering was not the monster in his chest. It was loneliness that tried to reach out for someone. And he fell even more in love when he knew that someone had been you.
