Of Victory and Death - Chapter 3: Of Shadows, Earth, Flame, and Death

I stood in my dorm room, closing my eyes and focusing on the familiar yet distant pull of Olympus. The sounds of NYU's bustling campus faded away, replaced by the gentle hum of divine energy. I took a deep breath, and in an instant, the world around me shimmered and transformed. The vibrant colors of my dorm room opened to the golden splendor of Olympus.

Opening my eyes, I was met with the golden splendor of my celestial home. Tall marble columns, intricately carved with scenes of ancient myths and legends, reached toward a sky that seemed bluer and more infinite than any mortal sky. The air was filled with the faint scent of ambrosia and the distant melody of celestial music that seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere at once. Nostalgia washed over me as I walked through the empty halls of the gods.

"Mother?" I called out, my voice echoing off the marble walls, mingling with the faint hum of divine energy that seemed to resonate throughout the whole building.

A moment later, Nike appeared, her presence radiant and commanding. Clad in her golden armor, she exuded an aura of strength and grace that was both comforting and awe-inspiring. Her wings, shimmering with an ethereal light, folded gently behind her. Her eyes, filled with a mix of concern and warmth, softened as she saw me. She opened her arms to embrace me, and I stepped into them, feeling a surge of comfort and familiarity.

"Elysia, my dear," Nike said, her voice warm and soothing, like a lullaby. "It's been too long."

“You had just visited me yesterday, mother,” Elysia pulled back and studied her mother’s face. Nike had always been gorgeous, as she was very particular on which handmaids she utilized and how she presented herself.

Nike chuckled softly, "True, but a day in Olympus can feel like an eternity without you, my dear."

I smiled, the tension that had been building within me easing slightly, "I’m sure that’s true.”

My mother guided me to a nearby terrace that overlooked the sprawling landscape of Olympus. The view was breathtaking. Rolling hills of lush green stretched as far as the eye could see, dotted with vibrant flowers that seemed to glow with their own inner light. Sparkling rivers wound their way through the landscape, their waters so clear and pure they seemed to reflect the very essence of the heavens. In the distance, the majestic Mount Olympus towered above everything, its peak disappearing into the clouds.

We sat on a marble bench adorned with golden accents and delicate carvings of laurel leaves. I took a moment to gather my thoughts.

My mother spoke first, “Have you given any thought to my request?”

I pondered for a moment. If anyone knew Nike, it was me. And she didn’t like taking no for an answer, especially if the weight of her reputation depended on it. I sighed, “Why do you need me, again? I was pretty caught up in school when you intruded.”

Nike's expression softened, "Elysia… There have been disturbances, ripples in the fabric of our realm that are starting to affect the mortal world. Your father and I believe you might be the key to understanding and stopping them."

“How, though?” I asked. Sure, I had divine powers, but how could one minor goddess stop the ripples from happening? And even if I could, the whole thing sounded more like a death mission. Though, at the mention of my father, my worries seemed to ease a bit. My father was ruthless to some, but it was clear that he favored me out of all his kin. He always saw a light in me more than my mother ever had; which is ironic because he lived in complete and utter darkness.

Nike took a deep breath, her wings rustling softly behind her, "Your connection to both life and death gives you a unique perspective and power, Elysia. The disturbances seem to be affecting both realms—Olympus and the underworld. We believe someone is manipulating the boundaries between them, causing instability."

I nodded slowly, the weight of her words sinking in, "So, you need me to investigate these disturbances and find out who's behind them?"

"Exactly," Nike said, "We need you to use your abilities to sense where these disturbances are strongest and gather information. Your father and I will support you, but you must be the one to take the lead."

I played with my fingers nervously. This was such a large task—I’d never done anything so life changing before. And there were many dirties to call upon: like Persephone, who lived a double life in the underworld and in the mortal world, or even Hecate, who relayed on magic to travel through realms and divine zones. I didn’t understand why Olympus needed…me.

My mother sensed my hesitation and placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder, "I know this is daunting, Elysia, but you have a strength within you that surpasses even my own understanding. Your dual heritage, your connection to both the light and the dark, is what makes you uniquely suited for this task. You are the bridge we need right now."

“What does Zeus think of all this?” I asked, overlooking the landscape. I focused on a bird that stayed perched on an olive branch not far from the bench. It fluttered its wings majestically and let out a loud yet melodic croak.

My mother sighed, "Zeus is concerned, but he trusts my judgment. He knows the severity of the situation and that drastic measures are necessary. Your father and I convinced him that you are our best hope."

I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of their expectations pressing down on me. The bird on the olive branch took flight, its wings cutting through the air with a grace I envied. I wished I could be as free, but my path was set.

“What about school?” I asked, looking back to my mother. Her facial expression seemed to have turned grave-like, “And my friends? I told Pippa about who I am, you know. I can’t just up and leave now. Unless… she can come with me.”

“She is a mortal,” Mother’s face turned stern, and her voice had a slight curve to it, “That will not be possible. She would get killed.”

I bit my lip, the reality of the situation sinking in. Pippa had been my anchor in the mortal world, and the thought of leaving her behind was painful.

"But she's my best friend," I protested, feeling a surge of frustration, "She deserves to know what's going on, and I can't just abandon her."

"I understand your attachment, Elysia, but the mortal world is not equipped to handle the dangers you will face. Bringing Pippa into this would only put her in grave danger. You must protect her by keeping her away from this conflict.”

I sighed again. My mother was right, but how was I supposed to do this alone? I’d never done anything like it, and I needed a partner. If not, who knew where I’d end up.

"I understand," I said reluctantly, "But how am I supposed to do this alone? I’ve never done anything like it, and I need a partner. If not Pippa, then who?"

Mother placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder, "You won't be alone. We have allies who can help you. I’ve already spoken to a few who are willing to assist. Your father is also preparing to lend his aid from the underworld."

I felt a glimmer of hope, "Who are these allies?"

“There are other deities willing to help. A daughter of Ares and Aphrodite. Persephone herself. The son of Hecate and Poseidon.”

“I don’t know,” I shrugged, “And you’re sure we can trust them?”

"Trust among gods can be complicated, but in times like these, we must trust in their commitment to our cause. Persephone's knowledge of the underworld and her determination to protect its balance make her a valuable ally. The daughter of Ares and Aphrodite brings a unique blend of strength and diplomacy, while the son of Hecate and Poseidon is adept in navigating both magical and aquatic realms,” My mother considered my words, “I do see your hesitation. And I do understand, but they’re the best of the best. Zeus recruited them himself.”

I nodded slowly, trying to reconcile my apprehension. The gravity of our mission weighed heavily on me, knowing that Zeus himself had chosen these allies. If they were trusted by the king of the gods, perhaps I could trust them too.

"Alright," I said, a hint of determination creeping into my voice, "I'll trust Zeus's judgment and yours. If they're willing to help, then I'll do my best to work with them."

Mother smiled warmly, a mixture of pride and relief in her eyes, “Thank you, Elysia.”

“Mhm,” I swallowed, hard. I had to explain what was going on to Pippa. Soon, or else she’d think I got kidnapped by an angry deity or fell into the depths of Tartarus.

"When do we leave?" I asked, turning back to my mother.

"As soon as you're ready," Nike replied, "Athena and Hermes are waiting for us. They’ll lead you to your allies and you’ll depart for the boundary where the disturbances are strongest. With your abilities, we should be able to pinpoint the source."

I nodded slowly, once again. This was happening. I was about to embark on a mission that could determine the fate of Olympus and the mortal world alike. But first, I had to face a daunting task: explaining everything to Pippa.

I stood, “I need to do something first. I need to talk to Pippa.”

Mother’s smile softened, “You can do this, Elysia. Pippa is your friend; she’ll understand.”

I took a deep breath, gathering my thoughts. Pippa had always been there for me, through thick and thin. She deserved the truth, no matter how unbelievable it might sound. I glanced around us awkwardly, “Well… I will see you in about an hour, then.”

Turning away from my mother, I teleported back to my room at NYU. Each step felt heavier than the last as I contemplated how to approach the subject with Pippa. She was my rock, the one person outside of Olympus who knew me best. But would she accept that I have to basically put my soul on the line for the sheathed half of my double life?

I opened the door, and started my familiar path to Pippa’s room.

My mind raced with a whirlwind of emotions. Anxiety gripped my chest, tightening with each step, as I contemplated the enormity of the whole thing. The weight of my pending mission pressed down on my shoulders like a physical burden, yet a flicker of determination burned within me.

Once I reached her building, the halls seemed to blur around me. he familiar sights of the building passed by in a haze. I replayed the words I needed to say, trying to find the perfect balance between honesty and reassurance. How could I explain that I was about to leave everything behind to embark on a mission that could alter the course of Olympus and the mortal realm?

As I reached Pippa's door, my hand hesitated for a moment before knocking. I took a deep breath, steadying myself, and then rapped lightly on the wood.

The door swung open, revealing Pippa's concerned expression melting into relief at the sight of me, "Elysia!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with warmth and concern, "You're back. Is everything alright?"

I stepped inside, "Pippa," I began, "There's something I need to tell you. Something... complicated."

“What’s up?” She asked, studying me, “Is it something to do with that double life of yours? If so, tell me all about it. I’m gushing to know more. Family drama?”

I snickered. Pippa always had a goofy sense of humor. I continued, “I'm about to embark on a mission for Olympus. It's... complicated, and it involves things beyond what we've talked about.”

Pippa's expression turned serious, her eyes widening slightly as she processed my words. "Wow," she murmured, taking a step closer, "So this is the big leagues, huh?"

I nodded, relieved that she seemed to understand the gravity of the situation. "Yeah," I confirmed, "It's about… disturbances. They're affecting Olympus and the mortal world, and I'm needed to help investigate and potentially stop whatever's causing them."

Pippa reached out, squeezing my hand in a reassuring gesture, "That's intense, Elysia," she said softly, her voice filled with genuine concern, "But I get it. You have a duty to fulfill."

Tears welled up in my eyes as I realized once again how fortunate I was to have a friend like Pippa, "Thank you," I whispered, overwhelmed by her unwavering support.

Pippa pulled me into a hug, holding onto me as if she didn't want to let go. "Promise me," she murmured against my shoulder, "Promise me you'll be careful."

"I promise," I vowed, squeezing her tightly, "And I promise I'll come back."

Pippa pulled back slightly, her gaze searching mine for reassurance, "Then go," she said with a small smile, "Do what you need to do."

With a deep breath, I nodded, "I will," I assured her, "And I'll keep you updated, I promise."

As I turned to leave, Pippa reached out and grabbed my hand. "Good luck, Elysia," she whispered.

I smiled gratefully at her, "Thank you, Pippa," I repeated.

~

I was back in my dorm room. I gathered a few essentials into a small bag, mentally preparing myself for the journey ahead. The weight of responsibility hung heavy in the air, mingled with anticipation and a touch of apprehension. Despite my training and powers, this mission felt different — it wasn't just about mastering skills or facing mythical creatures; it was about confronting unknown disturbances that threatened both realms I held dear.

Moments passed like hours as I sorted through my thoughts, ensuring I hadn't forgotten anything crucial. Each item I packed — a journal, a few essential tools, and a token from Pippa — carried significance, a reminder of the world I was leaving behind, if only temporarily.

A knock at the door interrupted my preparations. I opened it to find Athena standing there, her gaze steady and reassuring. Her gray eyes, sharp and piercing, seemed to hold the wisdom of ages, and her aegis shield hung confidently from her arm.

"Ready?" she asked.

I pulled her inside and cursed under my breath, “You can’t wear that here! People will think you’re going to a convention, or something. And you can’t just pop up at my dorm room. How did you even know where I was?”

Athena raised an eyebrow, her expression unchanged, "I am aware of the need for discretion," she replied calmly, "As for how I found you, it wasn't difficult. Hermes provided your location once you were ready."

I sighed, realizing the efficiency of divine communication wasn't something to question, "Right. I guess I should have expected that."

Athena surveyed the room, taking in the stacks of books and the few personal items scattered about, "You're preparing to leave," she observed, more statement than question.

Nodding, I gathered the last of my belongings into a small bag "Yes, I just need to grab a few more things," I replied, trying to hide my nervousness.

Athena stepped closer, "Elysia, you have a vital role to play," she said, her voice steady, "Your abilities are needed now more than ever. Olympus and the mortal realm are facing disturbances that threaten the balance."

I nodded. How many more times are gods going to remind me of how important I am to this?

"I understand. I'm ready to help however I can."

She placed a hand on my shoulder, "Good. We must depart soon. Hermes is waiting outside."

“Please tell me he didn’t bring a Pegasus or a flying golden carousel to the mortal lands,” I murmured, half-jokingly.

Athena’s lips quirked in a faint smile, her gray eyes sparkling with amusement. “Rest assured, Hermes is adept at blending in. He understands the need for discretion, too.”

Relieved, I followed Athena out of my dorm room, making sure everything was locked securely behind us. As we walked down the hallway, Athena maintained a composed stride, her aegis shield swaying lightly with each step.

“So… can we only see that armor?” I asked as we walked.

“Yes,” Athena simply said.

I nodded. It wasn't the first time I'd encountered gods and their ability to remain inconspicuous in the mortal world. Still, the sight of Athena in her full armor would have been a spectacle beyond belief for the ordinary human eye.

As we approached the exit of the dorm building, Hermes stood casually leaning against a tree, blending effortlessly into the backdrop of the bustling cityscape. He straightened up with a grin as we approached, his eyes bright with anticipation.

"Ah, Elysia!" Hermes greeted cheerfully, "Ready for a little adventure?"

He was impeccably dressed in a modern, sleek black suit that seemed to shimmer subtly in the sunlight. His hair, a shade of golden brown reminiscent of freshly polished amber, was tousled just enough to suggest an air of casual elegance. A mischievous twinkle danced in his vibrant green eyes as he straightened up with a grin upon noticing our approach.

“What if I said no?” I asked, flashing a smile.

Hermes chuckled, "Ah, but where's the fun in that?" he replied playfully, stepping forward to join us, "Besides, you're not one to shy away from a challenge, are you?"

I shook my head, "No, I suppose not," I admitted, glancing between Hermes and Athena, "I'm ready."

With Hermes leading the way, we set off from the university grounds, blending seamlessly into the flow of pedestrians and city life. There was a strange sense of camaraderie among us. I smiled faintly to myself.

There was only one thing going through my head at that moment: I just hoped I got along with Persephone, The Son of Hecate and Poseidon, and the Daughter of Ares and Aphrodite.

~

Elysia: So, I see you’ve made it to where my journey begins. Brace yourself, it’s going to be a wild ride.