Anaphora

🌘 I like to write fanfiction ☀️ All requests are OPEN

[that-fandom-goddess]

~ Welcome to my blog ;) ~

Hi, I'm Anaphora (she/her) and I like to write things and make stuff. I am 20, and have been writing fanfiction since I was 14. I'd prefer this blog to be 18+ due to some things I write and talk about.

Requests are open

I'm taking requests for both fanfiction and dividers.

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[that-fandom-goddess]

15 - Προαύλια

Nausicaa of Light Masterlist

Epic the Musical Masterlist

Main Masterlist

Warnings: Mental Health Discussions

Word Count:1558

Scented oils flow freely as the first day of private celebration starts. Maids massage and cleanse Nausicaa's body in a ceremony bath. The ritual is careful to purify the bride and is usually for her to spend her last day with her family. The traditions of Proaulia is very skewed here seeing as Telemachus' family has been hers for over a decade now. Penelope sits and tells her stories of her and Odysseus as Nausicaa's hair is oiled and combed, her curls becoming dense waves.

"Odysseus was always so nervous. When I first looked down at him from the balcony my cousins and I were on, he tripped over his own foot and nearly crashed into Diomedes!" She laughs fondly, telling the same story she's told her children hundreds of times before. "Oh, he was so embarrassed."

Nausicaa relaxes as much as she can, allowing herself to enjoy the day. “Were you nervous when he asked your father for your hand?”

“Very. But I knew my father would say yes. I fell in love with Ody when I actually got to talk to him for the first time. He thought that I was Helen and was willing to fight titans themselves to have me before he realized I wasn’t her.” Penelope smiles. “He carved our wedding bed into the very tree we met under and managed to bring it all the way back to Ithaca without killing it. He even tore holes in our bedroom walls to give it more sunlight.”

“I hear so many stories of kings becoming bored with their wives after so much time together. To hear you talk so fondly about each other gives me hope.”

Penelope’s face falls slightly. “Well, those are often marriages that neither one fully wanted. Being torn between duty and love will do terrible things to relationships. I’m grateful that my husband loves me even after being apart for so long. There is no one but him I would ever want to love or share my bed with.” She leans forward slowly. “Do you fear my son will fall out of love with you?”

Nausicaa suddenly feels too bare. She looks down at the water. “I suppose the idea isn’t too far from my mind these days. Now that the palace is open again, I’ve been seeing beautiful girls walking the grounds to see what their mothers have told them of it. They look divine and I can’t help but imagine them as someone notable here. Maybe I’m just insecure or jealous of their looks. They don’t have the burden of foresight to put fear in the souls of their loved ones with the future.”

“You compare yourself to them.”

“How can I not? I was never meant to belong here.”

“You have come too far to have nothing less. And if my son is influenced to stray from your side, I’ll skin him myself to give you his warmth.” She cracks a smile. “But I think he loves you too much to even think of such a thing.” Penelope crosses to the side of Nausicaa’s tub and crouches next to it to caress her face in comfort. “Your visions are a gift from the gods themselves. To see what they know is a blessing that few receive.”

Nausicaa leans into her touch. “I wish I could be better.”

“How can you be better when you’re perfect?”

“I’m not perfect.”

“In what ways?”

“I laugh too loud, judge too harsh. I feel too much and can’t control what I do sometimes. I cried harder than anyone when Telemachus found Argos’ body last week and I couldn’t stop myself from wailing. I want to control everything but am terrified of overstepping. I see everything and trust nothing.” Nausicaa’s eyes become as reflective as the water she sits in and her throat feels tight. “I’m a mess.”

“My girl, you’re human. That is what makes you perfect to me. Foresight or not, you are still human.” Penelope presses a kiss to her oily forehead. “Let me tell you – when I was bearing Telemachus, there wasn’t a thing I wouldn’t worry about. My husband never knew peace while our son grew. Many nights, I huffed and puffed because I was too hot or too cold. I sobbed like a baby when he asked if I wanted him to sleep on the floor instead.” A sigh as she settles into a seated position fills the air. “You are creating life. You will see all your self-proclaimed flaws as something unlovable. But I love you for them. Telemachus loves you for them. And I’m sure Odysseus will learn to love you for them too.”

To be intimidated was an understatement. Telemachus sits at the head of a feasting table as all the notable men in Ithaca and visiting men surround him. Since most of the old soldiers and suitors were killed in relation to Odysseus, Ithaca was severely lacking in the male department. Cousins of Sparta and Argos have come to celebrate the wedding of the sole heir of Ithaca. Telemachus watches as men, young and old, laugh with faces stuffed with food talking of battle and war and conquest. The talk of women is scarce and what is said is vulgar. Odysseus catches up with old friends and lets his son learn his own way in such a crowd.

Telemachus is tense, nervous of his surroundings. He keeps looking to his father for guidance but gets nothing but encouragement. He decides to try and get some fresh air, as all the bodies in the room makes the air too hot. Bustling servants and boastful men bump into him until he makes it out to the courtyard. Cooling sea air blows inland and he can finally take a deep breath. Behind him, a familiar face steps out too.

“I’m surprised you aren’t in there as the life of the party. It is in your honor, you know.”

“King Menelaus,” Telemachus bows. “I didn’t know you would be here today.”

Menelaus approaches him. “I managed to get my ship out of port faster than I thought. Sailed on a new ship that made the trip almost half as short. I wouldn’t miss your big day, my boy!” He claps him on the back, nearly making Telemachus stumble.

Telemachus straightens up. “Thank you. I’m glad you’re here. My father would love to see you again, I’m sure.”

“Well, I will have to say hello after your big day. I came here for my favorite pupil and, not the king.”

Telemachus relaxes some. “That means a lot to me.”

Menelaus starts walking through the courtyard and Telemachus follows. “You seem anxious. More anxious than when you picked up my sword for the first time in combat.”

“There are a lot of people in there. I don’t really know many of them. After the suitors being here for so long, I almost expect them to start going after my mother.” He laughs nervously, running the ends of the cords around his waist through his fingers.

“I heard how they were dealt with. I wish I had been here for you, my boy.” The king’s face becomes sorrowful. “If I wasn’t so scared of the sea back then, I would have come back with you to fend them off. Penelope and you didn’t deserve their attentions like that. For my cowardice, I am sorry.” He bows his head to show his sincerity.

Telemachus slows to a stop under an olive tree. “You don’t have to apologize. My mother and I were just fine in the end. And Nausicaa was too. I taught her some of what you trained me to do and she’s probably more capable than me. This was not your battle to fight.”

“When Helen heard of the state of her cousin’s palace, she asked me to step in. I was still terrified of the ocean then. Refused to even get near the docks. You were a good student and both of your parents are family to me, yet I still couldn’t bring myself to come help.” Menelaus puts a gentler hand on Telemachus’ shoulder. “But I’m glad to see you and your bride are alright.”

“Me too.”

“You really love her, don’t you?”

“Is it that obvious?”

“Your face lights up just like your father’s did when he saw your mother. It seems your love of a woman runs in the family.”

“Was he nervous when he was marrying her? My mother always tells me he became clumsy, but I can’t imagine him stumbling over his words during the celebrations.”

“That man was so nervous he started carving a tree into the wedding bed a week before he was wed. During his celebrations, he tried sneaking up to Penelope’s room because he didn’t want to be so far from her side. We nearly had to tie him to horseback just to get him out of the palace to hunt. He loved her so much that being apart tore his sanity right out of his head!” The king laughs. “So far, you seem to be doing much better than he did.”

“That makes me feel a bit better. It’s taking a lot of self-restraint to not run and find her right now. I’m sure she’s having much more fun than I am.”

"One would hope so."

[that-fandom-goddess]

14 - Νέα ξεκινήματα

Nausicaa of Light Masterlist Epic the Musical Masterlist Main Masterlist Warnings: None Word Count:1,444

The day was spent in the King and Queen's chambers discussing wedding plans and getting to know about each other. Odysseus recounts some of his journey, talking about Lotus Eaters and wind bags and sea monsters like Charybdis -- the small, less guilt-filled feats. There's much he doesn't say, but nobody will pressure him to speak about it. Penelope weaves the same tapestry she's been weaving for the past 20 years but this time she won't stay up late and unweave every fiber. It will be hung in the Great Hall above the throne, a testament to a new future and the end of an era.

As it gets late, Telemachus goes and checks their room to see if it was cleaned or not. Nausicaa sits with Penelope and Odysseus, waiting for him to return. "Are you hoping for a boy or a girl?"

Nausicaa leans back in her seat. "A boy. He'd be a strong heir to the throne and could grow to protect Ithaca."

Odysseus tilts his head. "You don't sound so sure."

She hesitates. "Well, I... I'm happy with anything. As long as they're well."

"Everyone wants a boy these days. Boys inherit and lead. But what do you want, Nausicaa?"

"A girl," She takes a deep breath and shakes her head. "But this world is no place for a little girl. I'd worry too much about her. Besides, she wouldn't control her own inheritance or be able to rule."

Odysseus shakes his head, his hair falling to frame his face again. "I've been across the seas, conquered kingdoms, made peace with angry gods. If I came home to see a granddaughter sitting on my throne, I would not be angry if Ithaca was well. If she could rule with the same principles that you follow yourself, I would be proud to call her queen. Perhaps the law could change in her favor. In your favor." He sighs, content with his family growing. "As for this world... It will never be a place to be safe in. But perhaps with strong parents and training, she would grow to be a fierce warrior that even the titans would quake in the presence of her name. I will not bind you by what the old opinions say."

Nausicaa stares at him. How could he disregard traditional values? He is king. He must know that society will not take kindly to a girl taking charge. She cannot lead an army without criticism. She cannot inherit without a man. The world does not work in her favor simply because she has a womb. "That sounds impossible, my king."

"I have survived through 'impossible', Nausicaa. Nothing will be impossible if you believe in it enough. I'd wager that you would make a wonderful queen on your own without my son's influence too. I trust that Ithaca will prosper under your bloodline."

"You give me too much credit. I am just a woman."

Penelope tilts her head up, holding her chin high. "You underestimate what 'just a woman' can do. Who do you think kept this kingdom afloat for twenty years while our king was away? It surely wasn't the cocky suitors or old elders. You have a brilliant mind and a kind heart, my dear girl. You always have. I imagine your daughter will be the best of you and Telemachus. Do not let anyone else convince you differently."

Telemachus opens the door and steps in once again. "It's all safe now. We can go to bed, Nausicaa."

Wedding planning is hard.

It's even harder when you must plan it quickly because the bride-to-be is already pregnant before the engagement was even approved by the king.

What makes it easier is the many years of thought Queen Penelope had already put into this very occasion. She arranges the feasting menu, plans the celebration, and even gives a layout of what the Great Hall should look like when the procession starts. The two things she has waited twenty years for are finally here. Her husband is by her side to watch their only son marry for love just like they did.

The only thing that brings her even more joy is dressing her daughter up in vibrant fabrics to try and find what will look best made into a peplos for the wedding. “What about this one? I think the red will look beautiful with your eyes if you have a vision.”

Nausicaa looks overwhelmed. “I don’t really think I’d like to encourage a vision at my wedding, my queen.”

Penelope nods, putting the red wool down. “You’re right. The last thing we’d want is to cause a scene. At least not on that day.” She casts a cheeky glance over her shoulder before grabbing a light blue fabric. “This would look absolutely perfect on you, but I think we should steer clear of blues for now. I’d hate to start the traitor rumors up again.”

Nausicaa nods. “I’ve been staying away from that color my whole life. I have no intention to start wearing it on my wedding day.”

“Then, perhaps purple or saffron.” Penelope crosses to where a deep violet fabric and a candle-colored fabric lie next to each other. “These would look radiant together on your skin. What do you think?” Her voice is full of excitement and she’s talking a bit faster than normal.

Nausicaa sits on the chair she’s been sat on for the past hour and nods. “Yes, I suppose that could work.”

Penelope’s hands fall to her sides. “Dear girl, that’s what you’ve said to most of these fabrics and colors. I cannot imagine you would want to wear them all at once.” She comes to Nausicaa’s side. “Are you feeling alright? Is the child exhausting you?”

“I’m fine, just…” her hands wring in her lap, “tired. That’s all.”

“We must finish this today, Nausicaa. We’ve made preparations for celebration next week. We need plenty of time to ensure that this will fit well enough to hide any signs of conception.”

“I know, my queen. I want nothing more than to hide myself well, so there are no rumors. I suppose I’m just overwhelmed. I’ve spent so long thinking about marrying Telemachus that there is nothing more I want in my future. But now that we are preparing everything in such a short time I feel… suffocated.” Nausicaa looks up at the only mother she has known with wide eyes, realizing the underlying implication. “And please, don’t think this is me complaining about my condition, I could never regret my child existing, but I can’t help but imagine how much more I would enjoy planning everything if I weren’t rushed.”

Penelope slowly sits down next to her. “Oh, Nausicaa, I have never once doubted your love for this child. I understand that all of this can be a bit much, but this wedding is for the ceremony in the public’s eye. It is just a formality we must put on for the sake of your family. I’m sorry if I’m overwhelming you.” She takes her hands in hers. “I have been waiting for this moment since I realized my son loved no one but you and I suppose I’ve gotten a bit carried away in my excitement. I’m sorry, my dear girl.”

Nausicaa takes a deep breath and gently shakes her head. “I am excited too, but this is not your fault. I never thought I would ever get any of this as a bride, let alone getting to marry your son. To carry his child is a blessing and to marry him is an honor I was never born to have. It still feels like a dream in my mind. Please, do not apologize, my queen. I am grateful for everything you have done for me. This is my own fault. I should have waited until the king returned.”

“It isn’t ‘your fault’ either. It’s just a fact of life. Just because my husband was gone never meant you had to wait to love my son. I never meant to pause your life with mine. But none of that matters now.” Penelope smiles and squeezes her hands. “Now we make you the most beautiful bride Ithaca has ever seen. Have you seen any fabrics here that catch your attention?”

Nausicaa glances around the room. She slowly drops Penelope’s hands and stands. The colors around her are all eye catching, but she walks over to two fabrics made of wool and silk and picks them up to feel. She lets it run over her palm while she admires the color. “I think I like this one the most.”

“Wonderful.”

[promptsforthesoul]

If you use AI on your book’s cover, people will assume that the inside was created at least in part by AI as well. You will lose readers for it.

Also, it is insulting both to artists, many of whom are perfectly willing to create cover art for considerably cheap or even free, and also to yourself.

Your writing is worth more than that. Your hard work is better than AI in every way shape or form. It may seem the easiest and quickest approach to completing and publishing your manuscript, but it is not worth it.

The easy route is not always the best one.

Please have some pride in your work. Support artists. Support yourself.

[that-fandom-goddess]

cool nickname that sticks so well you forget what the character's actual name is <<< cool nickname that nobody uses because the author forgot they did that

[that-fandom-goddess]

13 - παιδιά του παρελθόντος

Nausicaa of Light Masterlist Epic the Musical Masterlist Main Masterlist Warnings: Blood Mention, Vomit, Violence Mention Word Count: 2,605

The ride back starts peacefully. They both silently know to take it slow this time to ensure that Nausicaa doesn’t feel ill again. The dampness of the morning has left and a cool breeze coming from the ocean makes their skin feel cold without realizing it.

“So, who was your first kiss?” Nausicaa is the first to break the peaceful silence.

Telemachus glances over at his lover, a sly smile appearing on his face. “Why are you so curious?”

She mirrors his smile and tilts her head to see past her black curls. “So, I know what not to name our child.”

Telemachus chuckles, but not without hesitation. “I’m guessing you want a real answer?”

“Of course. Just indulge me, won’t you?”

He lets out a breathy laugh, shaking his head. “Her name was Phoebe.”

Nausicaa slows her horse, her head fully facing Telemachus now. “Phoebe?” The hint of insecurity is visible in her voice, something rarely heard by anyone. “The same Phoebe that was cruel to me as children?”

Telemachus slows his horse to match her pace. He nods, feeling terrible for being honest. “Yes. That Phoebe.” He quickly elaborated before he dug himself deeper. “She promised she would be nice to you if I did.”

“You kissed her… for me?” The betrayal feels heavy against her heart, even if it was with the best intentions. “How old were you?”

“Twelve, I think. Sometime around that age.” A beat. “But I swear it was just so she would leave you alone.”

“But she didn’t. She tormented me until the suitors prevented her from coming onto the palace grounds while you were away training.” Nausicaa is visibly upset, her pregnancy hormone imbalance taking control. “She tricked you.”

Telemachus feels like the worst person in the world right now. He just told his pregnant fiancé that she wasn’t his first kiss, but it was instead the girl who bullied and taunted her all through her adolescence. “I know she tricked me. At least I do now. I was dumb and naïve and maybe I still am. It’s an embarrassing mistake for a prince. I feel so stupid for believing her. I’m sorry, Nausicaa.”

She realizes that Telemachus is being hard on himself about his past childish mistakes. Nausicaa takes a breath, clearing her head before responding. “Of course you were naïve, you were twelve.”

“You’re not mad?” He looks like a kicked puppy.

“Well, I’m not happy, but I don’t think I’m mad. Jealous, sure, but not mad at you.”

Telemachus’ body visibly relaxes. “I’m glad you’re not mad at me. I definitely learned my lesson about just kissing girls when they ask.”

Nausicaa notices the slight shift in tone. “I’d hope so. You are a betrothed prince now, after all.”

“You’re right. Besides, if my mother found out I was kissing anyone other than you, I’m sure she’d skin me alive.”

“And now that your father is back, and seems to quite like me, I’m sure he’d help her.”

“They’d be out for my blood, wouldn’t they?”

She nods. “I think being pregnant with their first and only grandchild will sway them in my favor.”

“I think you’re right. Better not even look at another woman just to be on the safe side. I’d hate to get married skinless.” He grins.

“Sounds cold.” Nausicaa can’t help but copy his smile.

Telemachus laughs. “Freezing.”

They make their way down to the city and ride through the streets, ignoring the people around them. Telemachus makes sure they go slow enough to not accidentally jostle Nausicaa too much as he knows nothing about pregnancy and will be taking every precaution with caution. He keeps himself alert to Nausicaa and their surroundings just to be safe. When they reach the palace stables at last, he helps her dismount, careful not to jostle her around.

Telemachus studies her face, his own expression becoming softer and a bit worried. “Are you alright? How is your stomach?”

“I’m fine, I swear. Still just a small bout of nausea. I can manage.”

“Do you need to lie down for a bit?”

“Telemachus, I’m fine. You worry too much.”

“How can I not worry? You’re carrying my child. It’s my job to worry about you, especially now.” He gestures to her stomach. “Let me worry, please?”

Nausicaa sighs. “I can’t stop you from worrying.” How can she tell him to not worry about being worried? He loves her so, and everyone can see it. His love for her and their child makes him sick with anxiety about what could happen to them. About what could take them away from him in terrible ways that he will never be able to avenge. “But know that we’ll be fine. I know it. I feel it.”

“If you’re sure…” He trails off. Telemachus gently leads her through the palace. “Are you hungry?” They walk through the dining hall where servants are cleaning the floors, walls, and everything of the suitor’s blood.

Nausicaa’s stomach churns. “Not much anymore.”

“Are you alright? You look pale.”

“It’s the smell. It didn’t bother me last night, but now…” She looks like she’s going to be sick.

“I guess that is what happens when someone mops up old blood. The servants probably stirred it up and made the smell stronger-” Nausicaa suddenly hurries out of the room and goes upstairs. “Woah, wait up! Where are you going? What’s wrong?” Telemachus catches her arm at the top of the stairs.

“I can’t stand being down there any longer. I feel so sick my head hurts. I just want to go to our room. Please, Telemachus.” It’s rare to hear Nausicaa beg for something, especially in a serious way.

“Okay, alright. Let’s go far away from here.” Telemachus takes her hand and leads her to their room. When the door opens, they see a dried brown puddle on the floor where Antinous’ corpse once was. The air smells of sour copper, but not heavily. The glass-less opening in the wall lets a soft breeze through that airs out the room.

Nausicaa backs up, putting distance between herself and the scene. She feels her stomach churn even more, eventually leaning against the wall and throws up bile onto the hall floor.

Telemachus is at her side instantly, his hand rubbing small circles on her back and holding back her hair as she empties the contents of her stomach. “I’m sorry, I didn’t know it would be like...” He wipes tears from her cheekbones when she looks up again. “Why don’t we go somewhere else and I’ll have something easy sent up from the kitchen?”

She slowly nods, the burning in her throat keeping her from speaking right away. Nausicaa lets him guide her through the halls down to his parent’s chambers. They stop outside and tell a servant to bring breakfast into the room so they can all eat together.

Telemachus knocks on the doors and Penelope’s voice tells them to come in and he pulls open the door.

There the King and Queen of Ithaca sit. Penelope is at her loom, working on her tapestry with Odysseus on the floor at her feet, leaning against her side. The sun shines through the opening, making their silver hairs shine among the dark others. It illuminates the room that seems a little warmer since the king’s return. The world outside the palace seems brighter since the suitors have left, as if it mirrors the feelings of the royal family. The wind gently moves the blanket draped across the windowsill bringing in a fresh breeze that calms the body. Sheets and blankets are unmade on the bed, but it’s not messy. It shows relief through relaxation and being able to breathe after years of slow suffocation.

Penelope pauses her movements at the sight of Telemachus holding his love. “Nausicaa, what’s wrong? You look ill.”

Nausicaa speaks softly. “Apparently the smell of blood isn’t good for pregnancy.”

Penelope nods, sympathizing. “I understand, I’ve heard it’s quite vile out there. I remember how sensitive my nose was when I was pregnant. I could smell every little thing and it would make me so sick.”

“Could we stay here for a while, Mother? There is still blood in our room and we haven’t had the chance to eat anything yet.” Telemachus asks Penelope on instinct, his mother being the parent he’s most comfortable with for now.

“Of course, you can both stay as long as you need. We don’t mind at all.” She gestures to a table and chairs for them to sit.

Telemachus pulls out a chair for Nausicaa and makes sure she’s seated before sitting down on the other chair. “Thank you, my Queen.”

“I cannot wait for your wedding, and you stop calling me that.” Penelope pats her husband’s hand that’s on her thigh. “We should start planning it soon. I think saffron laurels would look wonderful in the city procession. Oh, and we must have a feast the floods the streets with food to celebrate the union and your father being home after so long.”

“We honestly don’t need much. Just as long as we’re wed before I start showing is fine. I’m alright if we go straight to the ceremony day.”

“Nonsense, dear girl. I will not have my only children have a bland wedding. I think a celebration of unity is just what Ithaca needs to help us step into a new day. I will not hear of anything less than.” Penelope is obviously getting excited about the wedding finally coming into fruition.

Telemachus’ face has turned pink at the thought of getting married. He can hardly believe that he actually gets to marry the love of his life, despite being the sole heir of the throne. She’s smart and witty and strong and not to mention beautiful. There’s nobody he would rather spend the rest of his life with than beside the girl he grew up with.

Penelope notices the rosy hue on her son’s cheeks and pats Odysseus’ hand again with her own. “Our son always gets so flustered when we talk about the wedding and their future together.”

Telemachus turns from pink to red as Odysseus finally makes a sound and laughs lightly. “Father, not you too…”

The lines from war on the king’s face crease by his eyes and cheeks as he smiles. “What? I think it’s cute. I missed seeing you grow up. I’m appreciating the small things now.”

“You’ve been home less than a day and this is how you choose to spend your time?” Telemachus covers his face in embarrassment.

“I have twenty years to catch up on, don’t I?”

Penelope sits up straight. “You look exactly like your father did when we were courting. He would get so embarrassed when people talked about our wedding plans.”

Odysseus shakes his head, disagreeing weakly. “No, I didn’t. Your father was just very intimidating. Especially when I asked him if you could come live in Ithaca with me as queen.”

“My father has always been protective. He wanted me to stay in Sparta to be close to him and my cousins.”

“Nausicaa, is your father planning on keeping you home for the wedding?” Odysseus turns to where she sits.

The room falls into an uncomfortable silence. Telemachus uncovers his face and glances between his mother and his love. Servants bring in platters of food and drink, setting them on the table between Telemachus and Nausicaa. There’s an unsaid past making itself apparent.

When the door closes, Nausicaa takes a breath and speaks with kindness. “My father is dead.”

Odysseus nods slowly, realizing he knew nothing about the girl he gave his blessing to. “I’m sorry for your loss.”

Penelope puts a hand on his shoulder. “I can tell you about it all later. In private.”

Nausicaa shakes her head. “No, he should know who I am from me. It’s only right.”

“Dear one, you don’t have to. It’s a troubling past, I know. I’d hate to stress you about it.”

“I want to.” Nausicaa takes a drink of diluted wine before beginning. “I am the daughter of a traitor of Ithaca. One who was brought to justice when I was a young girl. The Queen made sure of it.”

“He was sentenced to death?”

“Stoned in the city square. When your wife saw that I would likely suffer because of his actions, she took me in. I was raised alongside Telemachus. I was fed, clothed in fine garments, and educated more than I thought was possible. She allowed me to fall in love with her only son despite having no noble or royal blood within my veins. I owe her my life. Please don’t doubt my loyalty to your family or the kingdom.” Her last sentence was a true plea. The last thing she wants is to be seen as a traitor. She can remember the sound of her father’s bones shattering and the crowd jeering. The sight of blood soaking the dirt and filling the gaps in the stones can still be seen in her nightmares. The fear that she would be next just because she had the misfortune of being born as his daughter.

Penelope shakes her head. “Your loyalty has never been in question, Nausicaa. Neither has your love for my son. I knew since the day you became a woman that you would never disappoint this family.”

“I have spent every day trying to make you sure in your decision to welcome me into your home. I cannot think of any way to repay you for everything you have done for me. You saved my life and I can’t thank you enough.”

“I don’t need your thanks or gratitude. You are my daughter in every way but blood. I adore you as much as any mother adores their children. When the rest of the world sees you as my son’s wife, they will see how wonderful you are too. You will make a fine queen one day, my dear.”

“I can only aspire to be as fine as you are.”

Odysseus slowly stands and walks over to the table. “A traitor’s daughter on her way to the throne of the very kingdom her father sought to destroy.” His words make the young couple pale. “It seems your kindness comes from past events. I must know, when we first met, did you know who I was?”

“Not at all. I thought you were just an old man who still believed the palace was safe.”

“Then I’m proud to welcome you into our family. If you treat a poor beggar with such hospitality when it puts yourself at risk, I can’t imagine what else you’d do for this kingdom.” He starts filling a plate with food. “I will announce you as a princess of Ithaca when you’re married, if that’s alright with you. It will ensure that you are treated with the upmost respect when around our people and they will know to start seeing you as their future queen.” He hands her the plate full of food that is going to be easiest on her stomach.

Nausicaa slowly takes the plate. Not only is the king still in support of her betrothal to his only son, but he’s also wanting to crown her officially as a princess of Ithaca. Her hormones make her so much more emotional, and she can’t absorb everything at once. “Why are you serving me?”

“Because you served me first. You served me when it was beneath you. You served me as a stranger and now I’m serving you as a king.”

[that-fandom-goddess]

Communities created by me

AO3 Skins

I Swear I'm A Writer-

[that-fandom-goddess]

I have officially put The Lost Queen and A Russian Rose on hold for the foreseeable future. I am not satisfied with a lot of things in them and plan to completely rewrite them in 3rd person pov. I will likely not update them until I have rewritten them to the same point they are ended on now. I might change that later, but I have other stories that take priority right now.

[that-fandom-goddess]

Writing is so hard sometimes. I just wrote a beautifully worded paragraph that almost made me tear up and now I have to write more??? How am I supposed to respond to that?

[that-fandom-goddess]

New Tumblr Banner Made By Me!

[the-claire-bitch-project]

How to be a better/more prolific/stronger writer

Because a lot of people have asked me how I write so much and so fast

Write every day. Deadass. Not a joke. Not a throwaway tip. One sentence. One paragraph. One page. You have to work the writing muscle every day or it gets weak. You lose it. Use it or lose it. This is non-negotiable. Literally one sentence. It will trigger another one every time so just write one. Even if you delete it later, getting the practice in helps. It's all about repitition.

No idea is a bad idea. It's just not fully formed yet. No sentence is a bad sentence. It just hasn't been revised yet. Never tell yourself something is bad. Shift the mindset to everything can be improved. I find myself getting better with every fic and every draft.

Get used to writing on your phone. You have to be able to write whenever the ideas strike you if you want to write a lot and write well. So use your notes app or Google Docs or whatever. But get used to writing on your phone. Your thumbs will hurt. That's okay. Write waiting for the doctor. Write in line at the bank. Write on the bus. Write literally anywhere. Stop waiting for the perfect mood to strike or the perfect time or the perfect environment. Write when you think of something.

Always be thinking about it. And in tandem, let yourself be bored. Stop doom scrolling. Take a walk. Listen to music and think about your next scene. I'm literally ALWAYS planning a scene if I'm not actively focusing on another task.

Read. Read all the time. And don't just read. Think about it. Analyze scenes that work. Analyze why they work. How characters are developed. Do this with all forms of storytelling. Movies. TV shows. Graphic design even. Why did it hit so hard? How did they manage to so efficiently convey character traits?

Observe people. Your friends. Screenshot text conversations—use them later. Coworkers. Family. Strangers. Analyze different personality types and how they play off each other. Become trauma informed. Understand how people's pasts affect their behavior now. If you write romance, learn about how different parenting styles affect how people approach romance. Look into attachment theory. I'm not joking. Make psychology a hobby. Read about it. Take a class. Understand how people behave and WHY. This will make your character interactions more realistic. Also, go outside. Touch grass and talk to people.

Understand yourself and your own biases. Journal. Deconstruct your own personality. Figure out what's bleeding onto the page. Keep it or discard it.

Talk to people you know about their jobs and hobbies. Learn about them. Keep a list. A bank of stuff like this to use for side characters. It helps flesh them out and build out your world. It's okay to steal traits from people you know. It will always be more genuine to give characters hobbies and jobs you know about than try and make them up. If you have to make them up, utilize Tiktok and search "day in the life" videos for the type of person you're writing about.

Know that you're never going to feel good enough. You will always want to be better. It will always feel like someone is better than you. This is good. Every writer can improve. The moment you stop being hungry to get better is the moment you lose. You'll never be perfect but you can always chase it. But also, take people at their word when they tell you they loved your writing. They mean it. You are a good writer. But you can never stop getting better. <3

[that-fandom-goddess]

12 - καρδιές μήλων

Nausicaa of Light Masterlist Epic the Musical Masterlist Main Masterlist Warnings: Pregnancy symptoms Word Count: 1,463

Telemachus dismounts first, then going over to Nausicaa to help her dismount. His hands gently grasp her waist, and he lowers her to the ground.

Nausicaa smiles at the gesture and close proximity. “I think I won.”

Telemachus holds her in his arms. “No, I think I definitely won.”

“You didn’t touch the tree yet.” She leans into him.

“You didn’t either.” He leans down until their faces are an inch apart.

“You’re right.” Nausicaa presses her lips against his and pushes him backwards. She starts running towards the tree and touches its trunk as Telemachus follows just a few feet behind her. “Now I win.”

He grabs her waist and pulls her against him. “You cheated.”

“Yeah, I did.” Nausicaa wraps her arms around his neck. “And I won.”

“Only because you cheated. I totally would have won.”

She smiles. “I can’t agree because I don’t like to be wrong.”

Telemachus laughs and looks out over everything. “We haven’t been up here in such a long time.”

“We haven’t had time. Especially not after the suitors made stable access torture.”

“I’m glad they’re gone now.”

“Me too.”

He looks up at the apple tree. “I remember when we used to climb this tree every chance we could.”

“I remember you climbing this tree while I watched from the ground as you either got stuck or fell.”

Telemachus looks back at her. “Hey, I did it to impress you.”

“Oh, I was very impressed… with your ability to get stuck so any times.” She smiles, teasing him more.

Telemachus feigns offence, his mouth hanging open. He remembers just how many times he had to be helped out of the tree because he ended up stuck. He bumps against her before the mood shifts to one a bit more serious. “Our child will likely want to climb this tree too, you know.”

Nausicaa’s smile softens as her arms slip back down to her sides. “I hope so. Except we can make sure they never get stuck.”

“Of course.” Telemachus turns to stand next to her, keeping an arm wrapped around her waist. “Do you think we’ll have a boy or a girl?”

“Maybe a boy. He’d be a strong heir to the throne.” She leans against him. “What do you think?”

“I don’t know. I’m not too picky. As long as both of you are okay, I’ll be happy.”

They stand like that for a bit before Telemachus grabs the blanket off of his horse and spreads it on the ground. He lies down on it, pulling Nausicaa down next to him as they face the sky together. He wraps an arm around her shoulders while his other rests on her stomach. There’s nothing there now, but in a few weeks, there will be a small bump that will continue to grow with new life.

Telemachus breaks the silence. “I wish we could stay like this forever.”

Nausicaa leans in closer to him, pressing her body against his. “Me too, but we have a future to prepare for now.”

Telemachus hums in agreement. They have a lot to plan and talk about, but not tonight. Tonight is for resting under the stars in each other’s arms. Tonight is for dreaming of their happiness in the wake of the nightmares they witnessed at the palace. Hopefully, tonight can be filled with peaceful sleep and slowed thoughts.

The sun rises without them noticing. The warm rays make the coolness of the long night start to fade. Nausicaa is the first one to wake just as the sun is fully visible on the cliff edge. She stays still in her lover’s arms, careful not to wake him. The dew drops on the area around them turns into a light mist, floating upwards. It’s a beautiful sight, at least Nausicaa thinks so.

Telemachus slowly stirs as a beam of light shines directly on his face. He squints to see and stretches, pulling Nausicaa closer to him. He buries his face in her hair, not wanting morning to come already. She slips her cold fingers down the back of his neck, effectively waking him up.

“Good morning, Telemachus.” Her voice is sweet and a bit rough from sleeping outdoors all night.

Telemachus grunts, pulling back out of her hair to speak without it in his mouth. “Morning.” He looks over her face, pushing stray curls away from her eyes. “How do you feel? Sore?”

“Nauseous.”

“Is it the baby?”

“Yeah.”

“Anything I can do to help?”

“No.” Nausicaa moves, putting a leg over Telemachus’ waist trying to ease the nausea. “I hope it doesn’t last long.”

He nods, stroking her hair to try and comfort her. He rubs her back, trying to quell the discomfort in both of them. He kisses her temple, pulling her on top of his chest. “I guess this means no kisses for me right now, huh?”

She sits up, entwining her fingers with his as she straddles his waist. “Not unless you want me to puke on you.” Nausicaa seems a bit uncomfortable as her stomach betrays the rest of her body. She squeezes his hands for support as she looks down at him.

Telemachus smiles, trying to lighten the mood. “Noted. No kisses until you’re feeling better.” He looks up and squeezes her hands, reciprocating the gesture. His eyes travel down her body, but with admiration instead of lust and awe instead of desire. “This is a familiar sight, you know. You on top of me. Absolutely stunning in the morning light.”

Nausicaa cracks a smile too. “Except this time our clothes are still on.” She leans forward, putting some of her weight onto his arms.

Telemachus lets out a breathy chuckle at her very true remark. He can remember her naked body on top of his back at the palace just like this, with vivid clarity. “That’s true, but I think that you look beautiful from this angle.”

“I think you look beautiful from this angle.” She relaxes and tilts her head to the side.

Despite their relationship being so matured, Telemachus still blushes under her. Sure, they flirt and praise each other, but there’s something so honest in how she makes him feel sometimes. “You know what I’m thinking about right now?”

Nausicaa picks her head back up to look at him straight on. “What?”

“Our first kiss.” He lets go of one of her hands to press it against her stomach.

“It was right under this tree.” She chuckles, still careful of their position. “Oh, you were so nervous.”

Telemachus smiles at the memory. He can still feel the nervousness he experienced the first time he decided to kiss her. It took all the courage he could find to even look her in the eye before he leaned in. His heart still flutters every time their lips touch, never quite expecting her to still be real. His hands now rest on her hips. “I was terrified. I nearly shook every time our hands brushed against each other. I can’t believe I was so lucky that you kissed me back.”

Nausicaa puts her hands on top of his on her hips. “It was my first kiss.”

“You’d never been kissed before me?” He watches as she shakes her head. “So, I was your first…?”

Nausicaa puts her hands in front of her, resting them on Telemachus’ chest. “You were my first for a lot of things.” She thinks back to all of their ‘firsts’ in the relationship – first kiss, first time making love, first time realizing there was something more than friendship between them. “And I hope you’ll be my last for all of them too.”

Telemachus props himself up on one elbow, keeping his other hand on her hip. “I’d be damned to Hades if I’m not. I promise you, my heart, that I will make sure you never have to worry about me for the rest of our time here on this earth. Nobody else will get the honor of having you or the pleasure of having me as long as we live or sit together in death.”

Nausicaa smiles. “So poetic.” She glances at their horses grazing nearby. “I’m feeling better now. The nausea has faded. We should go back to the palace before I get another wave of it.”

Telemachus nods and gives her hip one last squeeze before helping her to her feet. He stands up, keeping his eyes on her. Nausicaa fixes her clothing and starts towards her horse. Telemachus picks up the blanket and gets his horse ready, but not before helping her onto her horse. He looks up at her on her horse, “Are you sure you feel better?”

Nausicaa nods, her hands grabbing onto the reigns. “I’ll be fine, I promise.”

[sisterlucifergraphics]

Hi, not a request, but I did make something for you. I have been trying to get better at my digital scrapbooking skills and I figured I'd take inspiration from accounts on Tumblr who take artistic requests (aka doing cool stuff for free) and then send it to them as thanks for all you do. I really like your account and how you make your boundaries and rules clear to your audience and have mad respect for it. The image is 2048 x 1152 pixels and took me about three hours to make. All images are from Pinterest. :)

WHAT THE FREAK !!!!!! /pos ( ˶°ㅁ°) !! THIS IS SO AWESOME I LOVE IT THANK U THANK U

it looks amazing u are truly wondrous ʚ(꒦ິ ꒳꒦ີ )ɞ♡

[that-fandom-goddess]

That's me! I made that!

[that-fandom-goddess]

NEW WATTPAD COVER

I updated the Wattpad cover for Nausicaa of Light since my skills in digital scrapbooking have grown.

[that-fandom-goddess]

11 - Νέες αναμνήσεις

Nausicaa of Light Masterlist Epic the Musical Masterlist Main Masterlist Warnings: None Word Count: 1,090

“It’s really you.” Telemachus approaches his father. “I’ve had twenty years to think of how I’d greet you, but I can’t seem to find the words.”

“Oh, my son, look how much you’ve grown. Twenty years ago, I held you in my arms. You were so small.”

“I have so much to tell you. So much to know about you. So much to share. I grew up knowing your memory, stories of a great king and heroic warrior.” Telemachus stops right in front of his father. “And now I get to know you.”

Odysseus pulls his son into a tight hug, trying to make up for twenty years of absence. “I’m finally home. And I’m not going to leave you again.”

When they finally pull apart, Odysseus looks at Nausicaa. “Are you alright? Antinous didn’t hurt you?”

She shakes her head. “He was going to if you weren’t there. Thank you.”

“I’m glad that I was there in time. If I was any later, he would have done awful things to you.”

“Not just to me. He would have gone after Telemachus and the queen and…” She takes Telemachus’ hand. “And your future grandchild.”

Odysseus fully freezes. His eyes dart between the two, trying to figure out if he’s heard her right. They look nervous, worried if he’ll be accepting or not. “You’re… with child?”

Nausicaa nods. “Yeah.”

The king slowly smiles, letting out a sigh. “That’s wonderful. Congratulations to both of you.”

“Thank you, my king.” She nods her head respectfully before continuing. “There is one last thing I’d like to ask of you before you go to the queen. Could we have your blessing to be wed?”

Odysseus nods immediately. “You have had my blessing since you gave me a room to rest, thinking I was just some old beggar. I am honored to welcome you to our family.”

“Thank you, father.” Telemachus speaks up. “This is everything we’ve ever wanted.”

“I’m just happy to see how strong you’ve become.” Odysseus wants to get alone to talk to Athena. “Why don’t you two go tell Penelope I’m home? I’ll be up in a moment.”

They agree and go to deliver the wonderful news. Odysseus calls out to the goddess of wisdom. “Show yourself. I know you’re watching me…”

After Odysseus goes to his wife, Telemachus and Nausicaa find themselves in an empty hallway. Telemachus holds her hand gently, grateful for the familiar contact after such a gruesome night. “We should go; it’s been a long day.”

“We can’t go back to our room.” Nausicaa squeezes his hand. The body of Antinous would likely still be there, as well as the smell of blood.

He nods. “Right. Well, where can we go? I doubt we’d find a room clean enough to sleep in.”

“We could do what we did when we were children.” Her lips form a small, hopeful smile.

He matches her smile. “You’re right, we should. I’ll go get the horses ready.” Telemachus kisses her cheek.

Nausicaa catches his hand. “I’ll write a note for your parents, so they don’t worry about us.”

He nods and they part. Nausicaa writes a quick note and slips it to a servant to put under the King and Queen’s door.

When she meets Telemachus down at the stables, he has two horses ready to be ridden standing at the entrance. He looks her up and down. The stains from the blood that the suitors had shed on her clothes and skin have dried and faded, and instead, he just sees the girl he’s adored for years. As Nausicaa approaches him, he feels the weight of everything that happened that night hit him. He feels grateful that she was unharmed and guilty for not protecting her more and exposing her to such a gory event. He pulls her into a tight embrace, realizing that he could have lost her in an instant today.

This takes Nausicaa off guard, but she reciprocates the gesture, wrapping her arms around him. She can tell that something isn’t right within him. “Telemachus?”

“I’m so glad you’re here.” His voice is small, like he’s trying not to break down on the spot. He’s a prince, he’s not supposed to cry, but the fear of what could have been weighs heavy on his soul and she can tell. “I love you so much.”

Nausicaa holds the back of his head in a way that shows support and tenderness. “I love you too.”

Telemachus takes a deep breath, calming his nerves and worries. “I will protect you and our child with everything I can. I promise.”

Nausicaa pulls back, caressing his face. “As long as we’re together, I know that we’ll be fine.” She smiles and kisses him softly.

Telemachus wipes his eyes of unshed tears, pulling himself together. He glances at the waiting horses. “Ready to go?”

“I am.”

He helps her onto the back of her horse and then mounts his own. They ride beside each other until they get out of the city. Telemachus’ mind is consumed with worries of the future and of his child that will be brought into this world. He doesn’t notice that his horse has sped up to completely pass Nausicaa’s.

She can tell that he’s in his own head again and urges her horse faster than his. She makes sure to catch his attention as she passes him and shoots him a sly smile. Telemachus realizes that she’s becoming competitive, just like they used to be, and speeds up too. In moments, they are racing to their destination.

Unfortunately, they both can get quite competitive when it comes to each other, so they push their horses a bit more than they likely should with Nausicaa being pregnant. One bump and she could fall. But she doesn’t. Neither of them do. In fact, they are going so fast it feels as smooth as flying.

The two eventually slow down as they reach their destination, the cliffside bluffs. Fields of tall grass are behind them as they look over the kingdom below and the ocean just beyond that. A forest just off to the side of the field provides shade on hot summer nights and shelter when it’s cold. Standing alone between the cliffs, fields, and forest, in an open space is an apple tree. One that stands at least two stories tall with a beautifully thick canopy dotted with apples, both ripe and in early development.

Telemachus and Nausicaa stop just under the tree, finally at their resting place.

[that-fandom-goddess]

10 - Ο τελικός αγώνας

Nausicaa of Light Masterlist Epic the Musical Masterlist Main Masterlist Warnings: Violence, Gore Word Count: 987

Odysseus suddenly stops in his tracks as he hears footsteps behind him. He turns around to see Nausicaa had followed him. "What are you doing?"

She pulls her hood up. "Following you."

"Why?"

"I'm scared to be alone. And I don't want to be around him at all." The thought of being alone with Antinous' corpse makes her sick.

Odysseus' expression softens, realizing that she's still so young and not used to the bloodshed like him. "It's okay. You can come with me then. Stay in the shadows and don't make a sound."

She nods, willing to witness whatever he's about to do in order to feel safe. "Thank you."

He nods and continues to walk down the darkened hallways. He extinguished the flames of the lamps earlier to give him the cover of night. Nausicaa follows closely behind, mindful to match his footsteps. When they reach the main hall, Odysseus stops. There's chaos among the suitors. Their weapons are missing and so is their leader, Antinous.

Odysseus steps into the light, leaving Nausicaa in the darkness. All eyes turn to him and the strung bow in his hands. He slowly scans the crowd, his eyes colder than ice as he speaks. "For twenty years, I was gone. I suffered every punishment and pain the gods threw at me. I come back to find my palace desecrated, sacked like Troy. Worst of all, I hear you dare to touch my wife and hurt my son. I. Have had. Enough." He steps back into the darkness and arrows start whizzing through the crowd, extinguishing the lights.

The room descends into madness and panic. The suitors scramble to get torches and lights to be able to see. One suitor speaks up, "Where is he? Where is he!?"

Another pulls him down. "Keep your head down, he's aiming for the torches."

Another joins the two. "Our only option is to strike him in the darkness. We know these halls, the odds are in our favor."

Odysseus steps into the light. "You don't think I know my own palace? I built it." He uses his bare hands to drive an arrow through the suitor's skull. The others are more than horrified and realize there is no winning against a king who plans for every fight.

Nausicaa can't stand to watch anymore, so she goes to the dining hall where Telemachus is fighting off a large group of suitors.

Telemachus is struggling to hold his own, even with the help of Athena. The odds are heavily stacked against him as more suitors surround him. "Get off me. Get off me!"

The suitors manage to start to subdue him. "Fight until the prince can barely stand!" One of them shouts.

Nausicaa watches as they try to hold him down. She steps forward with no real plan to fight, but a strong hand keeps her in the shadows. Odysseus, covered in blood, steps forward, plunging a sword through a suitor's chest. The suitor tries to beg for mercy.

Odysseus speaks in a low voice. "Mercy? Mercy?!" He pulls the sword out of the suitor's body. "My mercy has long since drowned. It died to bring me home. And as long as you're around, my family's safety is left unknown. You plotted to kill my son. You planned to rape my wife. All of you are going to die!" He grabs the bleeding suitor by his hair and holds him up. "This will be your fate." He beheads the suitor with one powerful swing of his sword.

Nausicaa goes back to the other room to find Telemachus. She saw all of this in her vision, but the smell of blood and screams of grown men were too much to bear.

Telemachus is looking at all of the bodies making rivers of blood in the main hall. She approaches him from behind and he spins to point his spear at her, not being able to see her under the cloak's dark hood.

She lifts her hands as she speaks quickly. "My love, it's me."

Telemachus slowly lowers his spear. "Nausicaa? Is that really you?"

She lowers her hood. "I'm sorry, I know I shouldn't be here, but Antinous attacked me in our bedroom and your father saved me and I didn't want to be alone so I followed him-" She's cut off by Telemachus pulling her into a tight hug.

He buries his face in her shoulder, seeking comfort. "Shh, it's okay. You're okay now." He pulls back to look at her. "You are okay, right?"

"It's nothing that won't heal with time." She wipes some blood off his cheek. "Are you okay?"

"I'm just fine. Especially now I know you're okay."

Around them are rivers of blood running along the slight slant of the room, just like her vision told of. The smell of blood and death is potent and unescapable. It's something no witness will ever be able to forget no matter how hard they try. Bodies litter the tables and ground, unmoving and in gruesome positions. Nausicaa feels her stomach churn at the smell and realizes that pregnancy has made her iron stomach less durable. Or maybe it's all the bodies and death surrounding her.

Telemachus notices her queasiness. "Why don't we go somewhere else?"

The screams finally stopped from the other room.

Nausicaa shakes her head. "No, it's okay. Besides, you should meet your father. I'll go to the garden and get some fresh air."

He glances at the doors. "Can you come with me?"

"Uh- sure." She sees the nervousness in his expression. "Yes, I'll go with you."

"Thank you."

"I think he's waiting for you."

Telemachus nods and takes her hand, guiding her through the blood and bodies before opening the massive doors to where his father is waiting. Odysseus is drenched in blood, surrounded by gore, but that doesn't stop Telemachus. "Father?"

Odysseus turns to see his boy. "Son."

[that-fandom-goddess]

9 - Τέρατα που ξέρουμε

Nausicaa of Light Masterlist Epic the Musical Masterlist Main Masterlist Warnings: Attempted Sexual Assault, Violence Word Count: 617

Telemachus and Nausicaa start walking to their room. Nausicaa notices that something feels off the closer they get. She stops and turns to Telemachus. "Love, would you go to the kitchen and get me something hot? I'm starving."

Telemachus nods. "Yeah, sure. The baby's hungry, aren't they."

"Of course." She watches him leave before approaching the room cautiously. She walks in and doesn't notice anything out of the ordinary.

Suddenly, the door closes behind her and two large, strong hands grab her, one clamping over her mouth while the other pushes her onto the bed to pin her down. She feels heavy legs on either side of her hips, and she bites the hand over her mouth. "Antinous, get off of me." She knows exactly who it is.

"So, you know it's me." He leans down to speak directly in her ear. "We both knew this was coming, Nausicaa."

"Let me go. Telemachus will be back soon."

"That's okay, by the time he gets back I'll already be done with you." He starts kissing and biting the back of her neck. "I'm going to make sure you're all marked up too. That way when the prince walks in, he'll know exactly who you belong to." He bites her particularly hard, making her cry out. "I'm going to show you what a real man can do. I'll do things to you that Telemachus can only dream of – maybe even give you my sons."

Nausicaa struggles beneath him. "You can't do that. It won't take."

Antinous laughs, confident that it wouldn't be a problem. "Sure, it will. I know it's how to keep a woman."

"I'm already pregnant."

He freezes before becoming even rougher. "He just had to do it first, didn't he? Always gets everything. Oh well, I'm not backing down just because of that. I'm still going to make you mine in every way." He starts clawing at her chiton. "I'll erase any trace of Telemachus within you and replace it with me."

Nausicaa can't outmatch him. He's strong and heavy and on top of her. But she doesn't stop fighting. She scratches and thrashes as tears stream down her face. "Don't you dare hurt my child."

Just as Antinous breaks through her chiton, his weight suddenly disappears from on top of Nausicaa. She scrambles to the other side of the room and looks at the scene in front of her. Odysseus emerges from the dark hallway, now revealing himself as King of Ithaca. His eyes show no sympathy, only murderous intent. There's an arrow through Antinous' shoulder and a spurt of blood on the surrounding area.

Antinous tries to back up, now realizing who this man is. Odysseus draws another arrow and aims at Antinous again. This time the arrow hits his neck, going through the back. Antinous makes a gurgling sound before going still and slumping against a chest on the ground.

Nausicaa looks horrified at Antinous' body before slowly looking at Odysseus. The fear nearly radiates off her.

Odysseus lowers his bow and meets her gaze. "Are you alright?"

She takes a breath. "I... I think so." She finally recognizes Odysseus. "It's you. Odysseus."

He relaxes and nods. "Yes, it's me. How did you know?"

"Your eyes. I've seen them before. In a vision." She glances back at the body before tearing her eyes away to look back at the king. "The queen is waiting for you. So is your son."

Odysseus nods again. "I know. I want nothing more than to embrace them again. But I can't until our home is safe again."

He turns and leaves and Nausicaa realizes this is it. The final fight. She grabs her cloak and follows him.