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giggly-moon · 24 days ago

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Restless ‘Til We Reach Home

Suffering So Endless (ch. 4)

AN: this one’s been locked & loaded for around 2 months, I’ve been keeping it in my back pocket cause I had a feeling there’d be another saga announcement & lo & behold here we are! Happy Halloween & happy vengeance saga release day! This might just be my favorite chapter so far, & I have big plans for what lays ahead! I’d been looking forward to writing this chapter ever since thunder saga, & I’m so excited to finally share it with y’all!

WARNINGS: unlike the previous chapters & my usual works, this chapter is fairly heavy. Trigger warnings for hallucinations, gore, body mutilation, possession & body horror. So again, happy Halloween!

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3

Things were good. They were as good as they could be, given the circumstances. Most of the crew still avoided him, but that was okay. Odysseus finally accepted him, and that was all he really wanted.

He was much nicer than he had been, but Polites wouldn't go as far as to say he was being nice. Oh he was definitely kinder when addressing him, but he was nothing but bossy and dismissive to the rest of the crew. But he knew better than to call him out on it; he'd only just gotten back on his good side. Let Eurylochus handle it.

Eurylochus... didn't handle it. He was just as irritable as Odysseus, yet he seemed more on edge than usual.

"Hey there," Polites announced his presence as he floated up through the floor on his way to the upper deck. "Sorry, didn't mean to come through your room. I'm still trying to get used to these short cuts."

Eurylochus sat frozen at the foot of his bed, gripping the laces of his sandals tightly, relaxing as the initial fright began to fade. "It's alright. You know you're always welcomed to drop by."

"Thanks," he chirped, drifting closer. "So how've you been? You seem, I don't know, anxious."

Eurylochus heaved a deep, heavy sigh before he collapsed forward, burying his face in his hands.

"Are you alright? Eurylochus?" he called his name when he didn't respond to his question. Then, his shoulders began to shake, as if he were crying. Wait, he was crying.

"I did something awful, Polites."

He rushed over to sit beside him on his bed, and even though he wasn't fully there, the thin mattress still bowed beneath his "weight."

"Hey, it's okay. Whatever it is, I'm sure it's not that bad."

Eurylochus shook his head frantically. "No, no you don't understand. We were almost home, none of this would've happened, it's all my fault," he confessed in a rush.

"Whoa, slow down. What do you mean you were almost home? I know it can feel that way, but I promise it's not."

"It is," Eurylochus wheezed in between sobs. He took a deep, stabilizing breath and began to explain. "After the cyclops, we were plagued with a storm the likes of which we'd never seen. We'd been fighting it for so long, and we finally reached the eye of the storm. As the clouds began to part, we could make out an island in the sky. We managed to anchor to it with some harpoons, and Odysseus went up to bargain with Aeolus." Polites listened on quietly, his brows knit together with a mix of concern, disappointment, and most confusingly, understanding.

He continued, "When he came back, the sky was clear and he held a large burlap sack. It looked heavy, so we asked what was inside, hoping it was something valuable. He snapped at us, warning that the bag held the storm. "It must remain closed at all times," he had said. We all thought he had gone mad. Truth be told, I don't know if anyone believed him. We were all blinded by greed and curiosity. No one thought the bag could actually hold the storm..."

"Oh Eurylochus, don't tell me you-"

He cut him off with a solum nod. "He didn't let that bag out of his sight for over a week. We were so close to home, we could see it on the horizon. But, Odysseus finally drifted off to sleep and I..." he trailed off, his head hung low. "I took the bag and looked inside."

Polites was shocked. He expected this kind of behavior from some of the other crew members, but Eurylochus? Calm, obedient, reasonable Eurylochus?

"Why didn't I just wait until we were home?"

"You didn't know," Polites said for his sake as much as his own.

"I betrayed him, and it cost us everything."

"So, I'm guessing you... haven't told him?"

He deflated at the question, staring at the floor. "No. I tried once, back on Circe's island, but... he was busy. He said whatever it was could wait. And, well, there hasn't really been a good time to do it since."

"There's never gonna be a good time to tell him."

"I know. But there is such a thing as a bad time, you know."

"I know," he said gently. When he didn't answer, Polites took his hand in his and gave it a comforting, reassuring squeeze. "Hey. You can't hide it forever." Eurylochus let out a sarcastic snort at that.

"Thanks, I wasn't planning to, smart ass," he teased, hoping to lift his own mood. It only halfway worked.

"Hey, I'm just saying what you're thinking," he quipped back. Eurylochus sighed, but it didn't sound as heavy as before.

"Thanks for that," he nodded. "For everything, honestly."

Polites offered a warm smile. "Of course! Anytime, okay?"

Eurylochus returned it with a half smile of his own. "Okay."

~~~

At this rate, they were never going to reach home. Any direct path on the open water was blocked by impassable storms and tidal waves, curtesy of the Sea God himself. They were forced to tread shallow waters and dodge massive rocks, taking every overlooked detour that might help them to evade Poseidon's watchful eye.

A thick fog rolled in, settling just above the choppy surface of the water lapping at the ship's hull. The fog continued to spread before them, concealing any obstacles in their path until they are dangerously close.

The men below deck rowed slow and steady, careful of the rocks on either side of the ship. The closed sails whipped and snapped against the mast as the wind caught the fabric. Odysseus steered the ship while Eurylochus stood on the look out for any incoming rocks.

A large shape took form in the distance, concealed by the fog. Eurylochus yelled for him to turn right, but as they grew closer, he realized what lay ahead.

"Captain! It's a ship!"

Odysseus grabbed the nearest soldier and handed them the wheel, making his way over to his first mate.

"What?"

"There, look," he pointed. Odysseus squinted as the large ship finally emerged from the mist. It rested on the surface, dangerously close to the rocks protruding from the water. Atop the deck, there were no signs of any life.

Odysseus held up a hand, stopping him from speaking further. "Something's off. This doesn't feel right."

"I agree, Sir. What do you suppose we do?" he asked genuinely. Odysseus shrugged.

"Come with me. We'll board the ship, and take what we need. It doesn't look like there's any survivors, but it doesn't hurt to check."

"No, no harm in looking," he agreed, purposefully avoiding his gaze. Odysseus didn't seem to notice.

"Polites? Polites, you there?"

It only took a moment before he appeared in front of them.

"Yeah, you need something?" he asked curiously. He caught Eurylochus looking his way before he turned back to look at the water.

"You're in charge of the ship while we're gone. Eurylochus, gear up. You and I are gonna check it out," Odysseus ordered. He stood up straight, giving a curt nod.

"Yes Sir." Eurylochus rushed off to grab his sword and armor, leaving the two of them alone.

"What's going on?" Polites asked, following the captain's line of sight.

"There's a ship by those rocks, but something doesn't feel right," Odysseus said, not taking his eyes off of it for even a second.

"Then is it a good idea to check it out?" he questioned, brows furrowed.

"We won't get answers if we don't look for them. Besides, there could still be someone left on that ship."

Polites smiled softly. "You have a good heart, Odysseus." He snorted in amusement at the comment, and Polites smacked the back of his head on instinct. "Don't laugh, I'm serious!"

Odysseus grinned sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head even though it didn't hurt. "Yeah well, I'm glad someone still thinks so." Polites placed a hand on his shoulder, offering a comforting squeeze.

"It's the truth," he insisted.

Odysseus heaved a sigh, "If you say so."

Footsteps approached from behind, and they both turned to see Eurylochus returning. He wore his battle armor, save for his helmet, and his large sword was slung over his shoulder.

They grabbed a long plank, connecting the two ships. The crew had gathered on the upper deck, curious as to what was happening. Uneasy whispers murmured throughout the crowd.

"Alright everyone, we'll be back soon. Now, get back to work." When no one moved, he repeated himself louder, "I said get back to work!" That seemed to do the trick, and the crew dispersed amongst themselves.

"Be safe you two. And don't do anything stupid," Polites bid them farewell, chuckling at his own joke alongside Eurylochus.

"With this one? No promises," he said, shooting a wink.

"Okay smart ass," Odysseus rolled his eyes, grabbing Eurylochus by the arm and dragging him off. He looked back over his shoulder at Polites, and gave a solum nod.

His breath hitched and he returned the gesture, saying a silent prayer for the both of them.

~~~

Odysseus lead the way as they walked across the narrow plank between the ships. Dark, choppy water splashed against jagged rocks below, spelling certain doom if one were to slip.

He made it to the deck and jumped off, waiting for Eurylochus to follow suit. He landed with a heavy thud, kicking up a thin layer of dust. They shared a concerned look.

"Well that's not a good sign."

"No, it's not," the captain agreed. He scanned the ship with a harsh, skeptical gaze. "Come on, let's look around."

They carefully explored the abandoned ship, swords drawn and ready. It was eerily quiet. Too quiet. Odysseus called out, but received no response. He was walking along the railing when he suddenly stopped and held up a hand, signaling Eurylochus to do the same.

He knelt down, inspecting deep claw marks along the edge of the deck. The rails were broken and splintered, leaving wood shards scattered around the area. Eurylochus squatted down beside him, running his fingers over the scratches.

"What happened to them?"

"If I had to guess? Sirens," Odysseus answered. He stood abruptly, heading towards the stairs. Eurylochus grabbed his wrist.

"Where are you going?" he asked, voice tinged with concern.

"We should check if there's any food or supplies below deck. They're not using it."

He sighed in relief and let him go, nodding in agreement, "Good idea." He followed close behind, making sure to keep the captain in sight at all times. This place was unsettling, and they didn't know for sure if anyone, or anything was still here.

While rummaging below, they were able to find a spare sail along with a mending kit, and a crate half full of spoiled food. Spare weapons were strewn about the ship haphazardly, indicating that they were willingly discarded.

"Let's just gather what we can and leave," Odysseus ordered as he picked up a shield, slinging it over his shoulder. He turned to his first mate, noticing that he didn't move a muscle. "Eurylochus?"

He startled and snapped himself out of it, "Yes Captain?"

"You alright? Been pretty quiet," he noted, bending down to pick up a spear. "Y'know, this'll go a lot faster if you help," he teased. Eurylochus took a shaky breath, shoulders sagging in defeat. In shame.

"I need to tell you something."

"You can talk and work at the same time, can't you?"

"Ody, please." The nickname caught his attention, and he paused in his gathering. "I need you to listen."

His heart raced in his chest as Odysseus took a step closer. "I'm listening."

Eurylochus closed his eyes and looked away. He didn't even know where to start.

"I have a confession to make."

Odysseus felt himself grow tense. He steeled himself for whatever he was about to hear. A strong sense of dread boiled in the pit of his stomach: he prayed he was wrong about this.

"What is it?"

Eurylochus focused on his breathing. Inhale. Exhale. His chest heaved with each breath, and he could feel a thin layer of sweat gathering on his skin. Just relax.

"I'm the one who opened the bag," he forced it out in one breath. Best to get it over with. He heard a small gasp just as metal clanged on the floor. Both the spear and shield laid unceremoniously at the captain's feet. His eyes slowly trailed up to look Odysseus in the eyes, but he really wished he hadn't.

Odysseus wore a look of shock and complete and utter betrayal. His brows were knit together tightly, mouth slightly agape. He shook his head, taking a step back.

"No. Tell me it's not true."

Eurylochus was crushed under the full weight of what he'd done.

"I'm so sorry, I-"

Odysseus turned away, wanting to leave, to go anywhere that wasn't here.

"Wait! Don't go!"

Odysseus froze where he stood, but didn't turn around.

"I should've believed you, I should've trusted you. I should've made them trust you."

"Yeah, you should've." He drew in a deep, shuttering breath. "But you can't change the past. What's done is done."

"I really am sorry."

"I'm sure you are."

"I tried to tell you on Circe's island, but..."

"I wasn't ready to listen," Odysseus cut him off when it seemed he was at a loss for words.

"That's not what I was going to say."

"But it's the truth." They stood in a tense silence, Odysseus still with his back turned. "I think deep down, I knew. I didn't want to, but I did."

"Please," Eurylochus pleaded. Odysseus finally turned around and forced himself to look at his first mate, his brother, his dear friend. "Can you ever forgive me?"

Odysseus felt his heart ache. From the betrayal, from everything. He gave the only answer he could.

"I don't know." Odysseus turned away wordlessly, walking in a daze.

Eurylochus followed behind, desperate for his forgiveness. "Ody, please-"

The affectionate nickname stung like saltwater in a fresh wound. He reared back, marching up to Eurylochus as he yelled, "You don't get to call me that!"

Eurylochus backed away, a look of hurt and understanding in his tearful eyes. Odysseus held strong for all but a second before he deflated, "Not... not right now."

He supposed that was the best he could hope for.

Though his head hung in shame, a tremendous weight was lifted from his shoulders. He just wished he felt better about it all.

They looked around the empty vessel in a tense silence, interrupted by a hauntingly beautiful, drawn out note. A beckoning call.

Odysseus whipped around to look at him, panic clearly written on his face.

"We have to get back to the ship. Now!"

Eurylochus didn't need to be told twice.

~~~

Odysseus called an emergency meeting as soon as they made it back. He dispersed the newly acquired weapons while explaining the situation at hand. Then, he started giving orders.

They were to set a slow and steady course forward, and everyone was to stuff their ears with beeswax to block the siren's song. Everyone except-

"I'm going to ask them for directions. I'll need to hear what they're saying, so you'll need to tie me to the mast to make sure I don't jump overboard."

Eurylochus and Polites stared at him as if he grew a second head.

"I'm sorry, what?" Polites immediately questioned the same time Eurylochus muttered, "Are you sure you want to do this?"

"We only have so much wax, I'd rather make sure that everyone else is safe," he reasoned.

"But what about your safety?" Polites asked, clearly concerned for his friend.

Odysseus barked out a laugh, brushing him off. "That's what the rope is for!"

"Rope can break."

"Not if you use enough of it," he argued. Polites threw his hands up in the air.

"You can't be serious!"

Odysseus didn't answer. Instead, he grabbed a coil of rope. Polites looked to Eurylochus for help.

"You're just gonna let this happen?"

He glanced nervously between his two best friends. "It's ultimately his decision. I personally advise against it, but..." he tilted his head in thought, "It could pay off."

"Have you both gone mad?"

"I think it's for the best. We'll never make it past Poseidon without their help. But they won't tell me if I don't play along."

"It's not playing along if you're hypnotized!"

"I'll keep my wits about me."

"You don't know that!"

"Captain-" Eurylochus spoke up, and the arguing pair turned to him, speaking in unison, "What?"

As they had been talking, the crew passed around the can of beeswax, stuffing their ears until they couldn't hear a thing. By the time it came around to them, it was almost completely empty. "There's barely enough left for one person."

Odysseus stared down at the last of the wax. "I figured as much," he sighed deeply. He picked up the large, heavy coil of rope from the deck and shoved it at Eurylochus. "Be sure to tie me up good and tight."

"Yes Sir," he nodded curtly and began securing Odysseus to the main mast. He started by binding his wrists together, pulling his arms back as far as they would comfortably go. Once he was confident that he wouldn't be able to pull his arms away, Eurylochus started wrapping the length of the rope around both Odysseus and the mast. He walked around in circles, stopping occasionally to pull the rope taught before continuing.

As Eurylochus worked, Elpenor and Perimedes stood on either side of him, taking the chance to annoy their captain while he couldn't fight back. Elpenor gave him a hard noogie, the wax blocking out his orders to stop. Perimedes chuckled and pinched his cheeks, squishing and stretching his face into funny expressions.

Any time Odysseus yelled at them or Eurylochus tried to chase them away, they only pointed at their ears, taunting them about how they "couldn't hear them" and "didn't know what they're saying." It was some much needed levity among the crew, and he didn't mind being the butt of the joke.

The ship continued cutting through the water, moving at a slow and steady pace. The fog rolled in thick and low above the water's surface, concealing what lurked below.

By now, everyone had returned to their stations. Odysseus stood at attention, his head on a swivel the longer they sailed. He began twitching in his bonds, shaking his head and gritting his teeth. They were close, and there was no turning back now.

~~~

Polites was scared. Not just for Odysseus, but oddly enough, for himself. Sure, he was already dead, but he had no idea how the sirens would affect him, or what they would do to a spirit like him- if they could do anything at all.

He was hiding below deck when he first heard it...

"La la la la la la..."

His head snapped up at the lilting, distant sound. "Eurydice?" he called out hopefully. She sounded so close, yet so far away. A flower sprouted between the floorboards, bright red and velvety soft. He bent over and picked it, bringing it up to his nose. He inhaled deeply, a light sweet scent filling his nostrils. The petals were thin and ruffled, and he swore it was growing in his hand.

When he looked up, there were lush vines hanging from the ceiling.

"La la la la la la..."

It was louder now, impossible to ignore. Without thinking, he floated up, through the thick foliage; through the wooden planks. Instead of seeing the crew navigating the ship, he stood beneath a massive pomegranate tree in the underworld.

No, he couldn't be here...

"Polites, over here!"

He turned to see Eurydice sitting on a nearby rock. She looked absolutely radiant, her short dark hair fluttered in the gentle breeze as she flashed a dazzling smile.

Voices danced around in his head.

"Eurydice."

"Don't you miss me?" she chirped, crawling closer along her rock.

He smiled, fighting back tears. "More than you know," he insisted, floating closer.

"Don't you wanna come greet me?" she asked as sat up on her knees, arms outstretched and awaiting a hug.

The illusion flickered, and for a moment, he was standing aboard the ship. Men frantically moved around him, distracting him before the illusion slipped back in place. He hesitated, "Eurydice, something isn't right. I know that you shouldn't be here-"

For a split second, anger flashed across her face as he questioned her. It was gone so quick, Polites thought he imagined it. "Relax, everything will be okay. Jump in the water and we can wash your fears away."

"Well I would, but I already died, and you know you did too."

"I would take the suffering from you." She leapt off the rock, almost freezing in the air before slipping beneath the surface. She emerged with a genuine grin, pushing wet hair away from her face.

Polites wanted nothing more than to jump in after her. And yet, he still floated at the edge of the railing. "As good as that sounds, it's just too good to be true."

"I can take the suffering from you." She spun around in the water, twirling in a tight circle as a water spout brought her up to his level.

"You stayed under ground, and we said our goodbyes." He tried to cling to logic and reasoning, but Eurydice reached out to him, cupping his face in her gentle hands.

"I will take the suffering from you." She pulled him in closer, pressing their foreheads together. She ran her fingers through his hair, holding him as if she was afraid he'd disappear. He hasn't been held like that in so long...

"I wish I could do the same for you," he said, reaching out to cup her face as tears filled his eyes.

"Won't you shelter us?" she belted, grabbing his hands and pulling him towards her. He took another step, walking through the air to follow. "Harbor me with your open arms, from the wind, the wind, the wind."

The wind. That's right; she had died in a terrible storm. The Gods themselves caught her in their wrath and tore her asunder. Poseidon wished to do the same, which was why they had sailed through such dangerous waters.

That's not her, no matter how much you wish it was.

"I-I'm sorry, I have to go..." he slipped free from her grasp, floating backwards to keep her in his sight. Her eyes filled with fear as she reached out for him, her hand phasing through his wrist this time.

"Don't leave me again!" she begged grabbing the railing to hoist herself up. She crawled towards him on the deck, the illusion beginning to fall apart around them, but she stayed the same. A perfect replica. "Wait for me! I'm comin'. Wait I'm comin' with you," she reached out, lacing their fingers together.

This wasn't right. This wasn't real. He took a step back, and she held on tighter, utter desperation clear in her voice, "I'm coming, wait for me! We hear the walls repeating!"

She wasn't real...

"The fallin' of our feet and it sounds like drummin'!"

Polites doubled over, hands over his ears as tears began to flow. He shook his head, "You're not her!"

"And we are not alone," she sang, her voice invading every thought. "You hear the rocks and stones, echoing our song!"

She sounded so desperate, so pleading, Polites could barely stand it. And then a blood curdling scream shattered what was left of the twisted mirage.

~~~

Polites was back on the deck. He supposed he always had been, but it had all felt so real... until it hadn't.

Eurylochus had stabbed a siren straight through the tail as it crawled towards Odysseus. It looked exactly like Penelope, yet he never so much as flinched when she was skewered right before his eyes.

The crew had caught the rest of the sirens in large nets and threw them on the deck carelessly. They writhed and flopped around, tangling themselves in the net and with each other. Elpenor wrenched the Eurydice siren away from him, despite his pleading protests.

"Whoever she is, it's not her! You're fucking dead and she still tried to kill you!" he hissed as he wrestled her down, allowing Perimedes to pin her to the deck with a spear through her tail.

"No wait!" he called out helplessly, but a voice from behind stopped him in his tracks.

"He has a point Polites," Odysseus said as Eurylochus cut him free with a swift slice at the mast. "They don't care if you're dead or alive; they only want one thing. Isn't that right?" he asked, addressing the Penelope siren and lifting her chin with the tip of his sword.

"We're sorry, we'll let you pass! Please spare us, and we can all be on our way!" she tried to bargain for their lives. Odysseus stood emotionless and unwavering.

"Why, so you can kill the next group of sailors who dare to pass by? Yeah, I don't think so," he said, stalking closer, his sword gripped tightly in his hand. "We saw what you did with the last crew. You would've killed every last one of us and stripped our bones clean."

"But that didn't happen! So just-"

"No, it didn't happen because I refused to let it," he spoke in a low, dark tone. Polites had never seen Odysseus look so determined and angry. And yet... there was a sick satisfaction underneath it all.

Odysseus stood up to his full height, yelling out for all to hear, "I'm done granting mercy to those who don't deserve it!" The crew burst into loud cheers, yelling out their agreement and support. "We're through suffering at the hands of monsters like you!" The war cries grew louder, they raising their swords in the air, beating their chests. Polites stood in shock, unable to move.

"This ends here and now!" The men whooped and hollered, and Odysseus had to raise his voice even louder to be heard over them. "Cut off their tails! Throw their bodies back in the water, let them drown," he ordered, and the sirens immediately began wailing and pleading.

"What? No, you can't! Odysseus, please don't do this!" Polites tried to reason with his friend, but he refused to listen.

"If I don't, they'll kill everyone. On our ship, and the next, and the next. I'm ending this now, whether you like it or not," he held firm in his decision as the slaughter began. Polites could only watch on in absolute horror at the scene before him.

"That's not your friend, that's not my wife, and that damn sure isn't my sister," he spat as he pointed to each imposter.

All Polites could hear were earth shattering screams and ear piercing shrieks. Swords swung through the air and came crashing down on the deck, sending blood splattering every direction. The sirens crawled over each other as they tried to escape, getting trapped in the nets and choking themselves as they tried to force their way to safety. They amputated their own limbs as they failed to squeeze through the nets, the rope cutting through their skin and flesh like water. Fully formed arms and hands splattered against the deck in a bloody shapeless mass. Their tails laid limp and gelatinous once severed from their bodies, and the sirens began to morph and loose form. Blood, as well as a clear, viscous liquid spilled from their wounds, and their bodies deflated and flopped around lifelessly, slowly becoming nothing more than vaguely human shaped water sacks.

"See Polites? They were never human," Odysseus spoke calmly, as if that would put him at ease; as if that was the point, as if any of that mattered.

The carnage spilled over the deck was inhuman, but that didn't make it any less wrong.

"You think that's the problem? That they weren't human?" Polites asked, barely above a whisper. He stared at the twitching, moaning blobs on the deck as his friends kicked and shoved their bodies into the ocean below. "That was brutal a-and cruel, and-"

"Justified."

Polites stared at his friend in horror. "Who are you?"

"The man who's going to get us home. No matter what the cost."

~~~

Polites was restless. He spent most of his time invisible and out of sight, but he paced constantly.

He couldn't stop thinking of the sirens.

Sure she might not have Eurydice, but she was her own person, with her own life. They all were. They probably had friends and family lurking below. What if they had been mothers. Even without a stomach, the thought made him sick.

He couldn't let himself spiral. Eurydice is safe in the underworld. She's safe and sound, underground. See? You still have a sense of humor. You're still you. And she's still safe, that wasn't her. It was someone else.

And yet, he couldn't let it go.

~~~

It was strange: no matter where he was, he could always tell when someone was looking for him. Regardless if he was on the opposite side of the ship, he could hear his name being called as clear as day. Which was why he knew Odysseus was wanting to talk to him.

"You called?"

"Yeah, I need your opinion on something," he said, eyes never leaving the map spread out before him.

"Sure. About what?" he asked, drifting over to the desk. He peered over his shoulder, scanning the path ahead. It looked like they were headed straight for...

"The sirens said the only way home was through the lair of Scylla," Odysseus confirmed his fears.

"And you believe them?" he questioned.

"They were about to kill me, they had no reason to lie."

"It's too dangerous!"

"Poseidon's worse! You weren't there, so you didn't see it first hand. But sailing on the open water would be a death sentence for every last one of us. Scylla... at least she's a gamble."

"Odysseus, I'm telling you, it's not worth the risk!"

"So you're saying I should test our luck with Charybdis?"

"No!"

"Then Scylla is our best bet. I don't know, maybe we could kill her if we just-"

"I'll do it."

"What? Polites, you can't-"

"I'm already dead, there's nothing I have to worry about. But she could kill you, or any one of our friends. And trust me, dying isn't fun!"

"I know that!"

"Then act like it!"

Odysseus gripped the edge of his desk, taking a deep breath. "I don't know what to do, and I'm scared Polites. I'm fucking terrified. That's why I need you to weigh in here."

"And I said I'll handle it!"

"Care to elaborate? 'Cause I don't like how vague that sounds."

Polites thought long and hard about the problem ahead. An idea suddenly came to him, but he didn't like it. But... it was the best chance they all had.

"Maybe I could... I don't know, posses her? And hold her off until you make it through," he suggested hesitantly. Odysseus stared at him in shock.

"You really think you could do that?"

"I possessed Eurylochus without even trying-"

"That's not the same thing!"

"I know it's not, but do you have any better ideas?"

Odysseus remained silent.

Polites let out a heavy sigh. "I know it's not... ideal. But you have to trust me on this, okay?"

"Okay," he said hesitantly, nodding slowly, "Okay," he was nodding faster now, seemingly more sure of himself and their plan. "Yeah, this could work."

Polites smiled and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, icy and cool to the touch: it felt relaxing. "It's going to."

~~~

They only had a day to prepare for Scylla. Odysseus told no one where they were going, knowing it would send them into a panic. He had considered warning Eurylochus, but after some heavy consideration, he decided against it.

Polites was nowhere to be seen, but that was pretty typical behavior now. Yet instead on remaining aboard the ship, he lurked deep below the waves. He'd recently discovered that he can travel through water as if it were air. He didn't have to worry about breathing, so he could stay for however long he wanted. But it was colder, much colder.

He was hunting. Not for food, mind you, he was hunting for something to practice on.

It took him a while, but he happened upon a great fish; slick gray with a mouth full of razors, and more than half the size of their boat. He "swam" behind it, observing it from above. Finally, he dove into it, seizing control of the massive body.

Confusion. Fear. Anger.

The shark thrashed about, dashing left to right and cutting tight circles through the water. He tried his best to calm it down and fight against the creature's natural instinct to force him out.

We just want to hunt. I'm not hurting you, we're just going to act natural. Take me where the fish are.

It seemed to listen, slowing down as its swimming pattern became less erratic. It silently guided him, and Polites sat in the back of the creatures mind, waiting to strike. Out of the vast endless blue, a shape took form. A large sword fish, chasing a school of mullet. Perfect.

Don't be scared.

Polites was in full control now, and he felt the rush as animalistic instincts kicked in. He flew through the water, striking the fish from behind. His vision went white and milky as teeth tore into flesh, ripping off a large hunk and letting the shark swallow its prey. Polites thrashed his head, biting over and over, becoming familiar with the act of possessing a beast.

He made quick work of the swordfish.

As the feeding frenzy came to an end, Polites relinquished control, allowing the shark to regain its body and mind. It swam away in a panic, disappearing into the cobalt abyss. Polites shuddered at the thought of what other monsters lurked just beyond his sight.

~~~

They reached Scylla's lair just before noon the next day. The sky grew darker as they sailed closer, large black clouds looming overhead to block out any sunlight. Polites shared a look with Odysseus from across the deck, and the captain gave him a subtle nod. He returned the gesture and disappeared, slinking off the ship unnoticed. Being invisible was awesome.

On board the ship, Odysseus stood stoically at the wheel. He had already given out his orders, and they were to sail slow and steady straight ahead. He split the crew in half, sending one group to row while the rest of the men closed all the sails and prepared for a storm. He didn't know what they were about to face, but he knew they needed to be ready.

"You're quiet today," Eurylochus must have snuck up behind him while he was lost in thought.

"Not much to say," he answered with a shrug.

"Do you even know where we're going?"

Yes. "I'm pretty sure."

His first mate arched a brow. "Just pretty sure? That's not the Ody I know," he teased, throwing an arm around his shoulders to loosen him up a little. "You can relax, there hasn't been a storm all day. I think Poseidon has finally given up on us."

If only. "I think he's just taking the day off," Odysseus joked along. Eurylochus chuckled. Odysseus hesitated before asking, "Can you do something for me?"

"Anything," he complied.

"It's gonna be pretty dark through the passage way, and we need to see what's ahead. Light up six torches and pass them out."

"Yes Sir." He turned away to go do as he was asked. Odysseus heaved a tense sigh, gripping the wheel tightly. He closed his eyes, and for the first time in years, he sent a prayer to the gods.

He prayed to Athena- for her forgiveness, to grant them all her protection and strength. To Hermes for his good fortune and speed. And to Thanatos, to please spare them for another day, and if they weren't so lucky, to make it quick and painless. He didn't know if they were listening, or if they even cared. Hermes cared, or at least he thought he did. He seems like he genuinely wants to help, even if he has a funny way of showing it. Thanatos has always been an indifferent kind of God, and he doubted he cared about the outcome either way. But Athena... he had no idea where her head was at. They left on bad terms, she said things that cut deep, and he returned the favor in full. He didn't blame her if she hated him, if she never wanted to see him again. He knew he didn't deserve her help, and yet, here he was asking.

They entered the mouth of the cave, and with each passing second, the remaining light slipped away. Soon, the torches offered the only light by which to see.

~~~

Polites had found Scylla a while ago, and she's just as monstrous as they all say. Even asleep, she was a ghastly sight: her face was gaunt and sunken with wet, stringy black hair fanned out around her. Six other heads protruded from her neck, her back, stretching and morphing itself into sickening blobs of flesh where they connected to her body. The heads themselves were sharp, almost angular in shape and resembled eels. Polites hated eels. Where she should have legs, slithering tentacles writhed amongst themselves, and from her lower stomach grew the heads of wolves, fur fusing with sickly gray scales, morphing into each other and with her.

She had no clue he was there, and he needed to keep it that way up until the last second.

Polites could see the outline of the ship come into view. One of the long necks rose into the air, taking a few long, deep sniffs. He watched as the head grew frantic, awaking Scylla and the other heads. She focused her large, black eyes on the ship and smiled. Her face nearly split in half, revealing rows upon rows of razor sharp teeth. Her skin began to crack and her hair finally fell over her shoulders, concealing herself behind a curtain of black. She silently slipped into the water and Polites followed suit.

~~~

Odysseus stood as still as a statue, eyes scanning the water for any sign of Scylla, but all he could see were shapes in the darkness moving across the deck. Six held torches.

Eurylochus stood watch at the front of the ship, holding his torch higher when he thought he saw something moving in the water. The firelight reflected off the surface as he leaned over the railing, watching as something sleek and slithering dipped below the gentle lapping waves. He turned to look over his shoulder, calling out, "Captain! Something approaches..."

Before he can continue, he hears Perimedes speak up from beside him, and the utter horror in his voice makes his blood run cold. "What the fuck?"

Eurylochus whips around to face whatever it was and drops the torch in sheer terror.

"Hello."

Her voice is raspy, unnatural, like it's more than just her talking. Her massive black eyes flash white as she bares her teeth, and her neck stretches out to its full length, completely towering over the ship as the rest of the heads grow.

Odysseus stared on with a cold gaze. Now.

"Row for your lives!" he screamed the command as loud as he could, hoping to snap them out of their fear so they could get out as fast as possible.

This was the gamble of a lifetime.

One of the heads dove straight for a torch, and the deck ignites with the screams of men. But before it can clamp its jaws around anyone, it makes a sharp right turn and lunges at another head that was headed straight toward Eurylochus. He snapped out of it and picked up his torch, running away.

Huge, powerful jaws snap down on its own throat as Scylla and the affected head let out a piercing shriek.

~~~

Polites has never been more afraid. Even when he was fighting the cyclops, it wasn't as bad as this. He was dead, and yet he didn't know what she'd do to him if she ripped him out of her body. But all of that paled in comparison to the fear he had for his brothers.

The extra head was mostly thoughtless, focusing solely on an insatiable thirst for blood. Even its confusion over his presence was vague.

He saw its twin set its sights on Eurylochus and he shot forward, mouth open wide. He felt his teeth, far too many, pierce through thick, armored skin. An ungodly noise ripped free from the beast as both heads screamed. She began to writhe and squirm, and Polites felt a hand grab him by the neck, desperately clawing at him to pull him away.

"Who are you doing?"

Polites clamped down harder, hot blood gushing down his throat and pouring out of the sides of the monster's mouth. As the head got a taste of the blood it craved, it ripped more ferociously, guzzling the hot, thick liquid with a desperation Polites had never seen before.

When Scylla was successful in pulling him away, he jumped to the injured head and began attacking the one still in her grasp. Another painful wail echoed off the cave walls as she stumbled in the water, creating large waves. The ship struggled to navigate them without slamming against the cave walls or submerged stalagmites.

This head wasn't much different, but it had an insatiable hunger for flesh. Polites gave it exactly what it wanted, ripping off large, meaty chunks and swallowing them whole. He tore into it until he felt his teeth scraping bone. With each bite and thrust, his own wounds throbbed and oozed more blood. He grew hungrier as the beast grew weaker. When he left, it let out a gurgling death rattle and fell limp. Scylla's screams shook the cave, and rocks began falling.

He possessed the next head that tried to grab Leander, attacking another that had cornered Perimedes.

"What are you? Get out!" She was trying to tear him away by the base of her neck. Long, sharp claws dug into her own skin as she frantically tore deep, bloody gashes into herself.

Thirst.

The monstrous instinct took over and teeth puncture through scales and arteries to drink its fill, making sure to shred its prey to pieces in the process.

Hunger.

This one acts completely starved, slashing through thick muscle and bone with ease. It shook its head ferociously as it devoured its brother until its dying breath.

The other two heads were circling the boat as Scylla cried out in pain. The wolves grew anxious and angry, snarling and howling in sync with their mother's mournful wails.

Bloodlust.

It was easier by now. He knew what to expect as hot blood burst beneath the pressure of his jaws, splattering on the deck with a satisfying wet slap.

Feast.

He bit and ripped with everything he had, swallowing chunks of meat bigger than he was. Large hunks fell to the deck with disgustingly heavy thuds while others still hung on by a thick strand of tissue.

"Stop! Let go!" she commanded, but she sounded scared, frantic. The wolves sensed her unease and began fighting amongst themselves, baring their teeth and nipping at each other, until one finally tore into her own stomach. Then, they all dug in.

She screeched so loudly, the Gods themselves could hear her pain. And somewhere on her island, Circe smiled.

Polites wasn't even doing that... Okay maybe he was the first to bite her, but he didn't expect for them all to turn like that.

Tears trailed down Scylla's face and blood gurgled inside her throat as she tried to speak. Red began to drip past her lips as she struggled and gasped for air. "W-what are you?"

The question made him feel sick.

Who was she to be so horrified of him?

Finally, he slipped inside her mind to answer her question. I'm just a man protecting my friends.

"And I-I'm just trying to survive," it sounded painful for her to talk. "But... I'm tired of that. So tired." Her breath was shallow and raspy.

Polites was bombarded with glimpses of a beautiful young girl, with a rich, fulfilling life of her own. One with family and friends... a deep love and a wicked curse born from jealousy.

An immense guilt began to drown him.

She looked up at him with dull, hollow eyes, pleading, "Please... finish it. Let me rest."

With shaky hands, Polites raised her arms up and cupped her face. He closed her eyes, and with one swift jerk, she fell completely still.

~~~

Every man stood on the deck, petrified with fear. Pieces of flesh the size of boulders littered the blood soaked deck. The men themselves were drenched red, some still trembling in shock. Eurylochus felt dizzy and he dropped to his knees. He caught himself, hands resting in a sticky puddle. He lifted an arm, and the blood dripped off in thick gooey strands. He tried to scramble back to his feet, but he kept slipping, and the more panicked, the more he fell. Asterios and Elpenor rushed to his side, helping to steady him.

Polites appeared on the deck, and everyone was staring at him just as they had that first day back. He pretended like it didn't hurt.

He looked at all of them, then looked at Odysseus, frozen in complete shock.

He thought of the sirens, how they begged for their lives, how he begged for their lives. How he had looked at all of them the way they were looking at him now. And then, he bowed.

"Polites, just what the hell was that? That wasn't what we talked about!"

"Oh, I'm sorry. Is excessive violence only okay when you're the ones doing it?"

#OH BOY HERE WE GO #first off to any of my followers seeing this #this is NOT a fluffy fic it is very dark and violent and intense #please heed the warnings at the start #anyway HOOOOOOOLLLLYYYYYY SHIIIIITTTTT #can i just say that your descriptions of scenery and actions is always ON POINT #it helps me imagine the deaths of the sirens and scylla so vividly in my head #this definitely isn’t going to have a lasting impact on our ghost boy’s psyche!#AND DEFINITELY ISNT FORESHADOWING ANYTHING #i have insider information guys and lemme tell you that YOU ARE NOT READY #YOU WILL NEVER BE READY #also leander and asterios spotted 👀#hermes come back i miss you #ghost!polites #other’s fics #GOOD SHIT #fics that you can read while eating chicken nuggets #why am i always eating when you post a fic.

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giggly-moon · 27 days ago

Text

Easy Target

AN: sorry I haven’t posted for a few days, I’ve been busy with Halloween activities! But I’ve had this fic ready to go for a while, so here it is! It’s technically a sequel to Appetite for Trouble & makes more sense if you’ve read that one first, but it can also stand on its own. Asterios is my baby & he’s so much fun to write! Definitely lmk if y’all wanna see more of him or Leander! Hope y’all enjoy day 27, we’re closing in on the last few days!

& yes I DO ship my oc with Elpenor, what of it?

Asterios honestly wasn't sure what to expect after the crew's attack. He supposed he was expecting for them to mock him relentlessly, to strike at any given opportunity. After all, it's what he probably would've done.

Instead, the lighthearted teasing and jokes made at his expense were kept to a minimum. The Gods must be looking out for him.

What was perhaps even more surprising, was the fact that no one had tried anything since then. They would still tussle amongst themselves, and he was, for the most part, ignored. Although, if asked if he wanted to join in on someone else's torture, he wasn't so inclined to say no. Especially if offered a chance for revenge. But other than that, they let him be.

Not that he was complaining! Don't you fucking dare let that thought enter your head. He was just... confused is all. Confused and fairly paranoid, not jealous, thank you very much. They had seemingly had so much fun tearing his sanity to shreds with nothing but their bare hands, it was sure to happen again. They had certainly made him think it would. Yet, the most anyone ever did was a poke to his ribs here, a squeeze to his sides there. Just to make him jump with an embarrassing yelp.

He was grateful they hadn't tried anything else, he told himself. It had was childish, overwhelming, stupid, and... kinda fun. But he was above it. And yet, when he hears frantic laughter echoing across the ship, he can't help but smile.

Leander was the only one who didn't seem to let it go. His roommate has since decided that the best way to wake him up is to body slam his sleeping form, and tickle him until he was fully conscious. Thank the Gods he had his pillow to muffle the sound.

He didn't stop there. He also liked to sneak up behind Asterios whenever he was busy and tickle wherever he could reach. So really, who else would be scratching behind his wings?

He scrunched his neck as a smile broke out across his face and the wing twitched away from the touch.

"What?" he asked, not bothering to turn around.

The hand returned, causing the feathers to bristle and his wing slapped the hand away. "Damnit what do you want?" he snapped, spinning around to confront his friend. The playful annoyance was replaced with shock as the color drained from his face.

"You're not Leander."

Elpenor's smile only grew as he looked the demigod in the eye. "No, I'm not."

Asterios felt his whole body go tense, and he was leaning as far against the rail as he could. "So... can I help you?"

"Yeah, I was just curious," Elpenor explained, taking a step forward. Asterios arched a skeptical brow.

"About?"

Elpenor flashed a dangerous grin and lunged forward, grabbing his wings and stretching them out on either side of his head. "Just how ticklish are these things?" he asked, feigning innocence. Asterios shrieked and instinctively flailed away- backwards.

He felt himself start to tip over the railing and he was screaming for an entirely different reason. A hand grabbed his shirt and pulled him forward until he found his footing. All while laughing in his face.

Typical.

Asterios shoved him away angrily, "What the hell Elpenor, you tryna kill me?"

"I didn't know you'd freak out like that! I barely even touched them!" he cheered, already trying to grab them again only for Asterios to smack him away.

"Try it again and see what happens," he growled threateningly.

"Okay!" Elpenor chirped, immediately reaching for his wings once more. Asterios panicked and stumbled back, snatching his wrist in the air. Elpenor's other hand swiped at the other side, and he caught that one too.

"Wha- don't actually try it again! Don't you know anything?"

"I know your wings are like, crazy ticklish," he goaded. Asterios balked, unable to find the words as a blush quickly spread across his face.

"I'd shut up if I were you," he threatened.

"Yeah, well, you're not, sooo-" Elpenor trailed off as he twisted his hands free. Asterios didn't have time to react before he felt blunt nails scratching beneath downy feathers.

His eyes flew wide open, and he stumbled over his own two feet as he tried to escape. He doubled over, gripping the railing for support as he did his best to prevent any unwanted laughter from escaping. He clamped his mouth shut, lips trembling as the urge to smile continued to grow, but helpless giggles forced their way out when he hit a particularly sensitive spot. He shook his head frantically, wings twitching, but Elpenor was nothing if not persistent.

"Ehehehelpenor, I'm seheherious!" he squealed, shaking his head back and forth while his wings flapped uselessly.

"Really? You don't sound like it," he taunted as his other hand joined the fray. Asterios shrieked when the other side was attacked, a bright blush spreading across his cheeks. Breathless snickers forced their way past his lips, and he was faced with a dreadful choice: either fight him off and probably lose, or focus his efforts on keeping those humiliating sounds inside his chest. He clamped a hand over his mouth, biting down on his palm as hard as he could to prevent anymore noises from escaping.

"Booooo," Elpenor complained when bright laughter became muffled. "You know I already heard you laugh, so what's the point in trying to hide it? I mean, you really aren't fooling anyone," he taunted, earning a frustrate growl that dissolved into choked off giggles.

Fuck this, fuck him, he needs to leave NOW.

"What? But we just got started!"

And FUCK this stupid bullshit power of his.

Asterios managed to slip free and made a break for it, shoving anyone and anything out of his way. He didn't even know where he was going, he just knew he had to stay away from Elpenor for as long as possible. As he ran, his feet began moving faster and faster, and the distance between them grew. If he could just make it below deck, he could figure it out from there.

He was halfway down the stairs, looking back over his shoulder to make sure he was still in the clear, when Polites cried out, "Whoa, whoa, stop!"

He came to a grinding halt, stopping just short of running into Polites and Odysseus. "Move!" he yelled, but neither so much as budged.

Asterios looked uncharacteristically giddy; wide eyed with a nervous smirk, cheeks flushed a faint pink, and his hair was falling out of a loose bun. The pair shared a knowing look, and Odysseus crossed his arms, casually blocking the stairway.

"Where're you off to in such a hurry?" Odysseus asked, sporting a smug smile. Asterios rolled his eyes and tried to shove past them, but Odysseus stood his ground, his shit eating grin growing wider.

"I don't know, just move!"

"Why? What's the rush?" Polites caught on quickly, blocking the way when Asterios tried to squeeze past them.

"He's right behind me!" he yelled, desperately trying to push them aside as he looked behind him anxiously.

"Who?" they asked in unison, and Asterios swore they were just doing it to waste time.

"Oh good, you caught him!" Elpenor called out from the top of the stairs. Fuck.

"Elpenor! I should've known it was you," Odysseus mused aloud. "So what'd he do this time?"

Asterios scoffed and shoved at his chest, "Nothing, asshole!"

Elpenor chuckled as he walked down the stairs slowly, "He's right, I just couldn't help myself."

"Well in that case, have fun!" Polites laughed, clapping Asterios on the back. He brushed his hand off harshly, absolutely seething.

"What the hell did I ever do to you?" he hissed through clenched teeth. Polites merely shrugged, "What? You could use a laugh."

Asterios scoffed, looking between the three of them. "Captain, you're just gonna let this happen?" he asked incredulously, fending off Elpenor with one hand while he tried to force his way behind the pair.

Odysseus thought it over for a moment. "I don't know. You're on your break right now, right?"

"What's that got to do with anything?"

"If you weren't busy, I don't see what the problem is."

"How can you not see the fucking problem?" he spat angrily. Odysseus arched a brow at the feisty tone, and just like that, his fate was sealed.

"Is that how you speak to your captain?" he asked

"You're way too moody, we're practically doing you a favor." Polites decided, flashing a teasing smile.

"Like hell you are!" Asterios scoffed, lunging at them.

"Oh lighten up," Odysseus rolled his eyes and pushed him away, straight into Elpenor's clutches. He hooked his arms beneath the demigod's and started dragging him back up the stairs.

"Bastards, all of you! I won't forget this!" he screamed, kick out and fighting every step of the way.

"Oh, and Elpenor? While you're at it, make sure you fix his attitude. Don't stop until he stops cussing," the captain ordered, shooting them both a wink.

"What the fuck? That's not fair!"

"With pleasure!" he adjusted his grip and saluted, carrying Asterios up the rest of the way. Before he could make another run for it, Elpenor kicked his legs out from under him, catching him just before he hit the ground.

Odysseus and Polites squeezed past as they finally made their way to the upper deck. He called out one last time, his last chance for salvation. Because if Polites didn't feel sorry for him, no one would.

"Plehease, he's gonna kihihill me!" Asterios couldn't believe he had resorted to begging, but desperate times and all that.

"Don't worry, it'll only feel like you're dying!" Polites assured, laughing at the look that came over his face. Odysseus was laughing too as he threw an arm around his shoulders, shaking his head fondly.

"That was mean, even for him," the captain praised, reaching up to ruffle his friend's hair before they rounded the corner and Asterios lost sight of them.

Even for him? What the fuck, he wasn't THAT bad... Was he? No, he didn't fucking deserve this. He was still glaring over his shoulder when Elpenor thumped his forehead to get attention.

"Hey, I'm right here!"

Asterios redirected his burning glare to the proper target. "How could I forget?" he deadpanned, trying to keep his racing heart in check. Elpenor had sought him out, had chased him down just because he was bored, and now, his head was resting in his lap. Oh, how he'd dreamed for something like this to happen...

Under different circumstances!

"Well then, let me remind you," Elpenor taunted, reaching behind his wings to scratch at the base. Asterios burst into bright, bubbly giggles as he squirmed around in his lap, unable to reach Elpenor's hands from the way he had his arms held back. He could barely even reach his face to hide behind his hands or muffle his laughter. He was left with nowhere to hide, and the only view he had to look at was Elpenor's beautiful grinning face staring down at him. It didn't help that he kept taunting him and telling him how cute he was.

He was many things, but cute sure as hell wasn't one of 'em.

Elpenor gasped loudly, and Asterios flinched at the sudden noise, looking around to see what caused it. He saw nothing.

"What-"

"Take that back!"

Asterios furrowed his brows in confusion as he took the opportunity to catch his breath.

"I didn't say anything, dumbass."

"Hey, remember what the captain said!" he warned playfully. Asterios rolled his eyes, yelping when he gently pinched his wings. He bit down on his lip, squeezing his eyes shut as he struggled to maintain his composure.

Elpenor began rubbing the velvety soft wings in between his fingers, and Asterios broke out in helpless shrieks and squeals.

"So if you're not cute, what are you?" he asked, cocking his head at he stared down at him. He wore a proud grin as he watched a dark blush spread across the demi god’s cheeks.

"NOTHING!" Asterios growled in frustration, snorting when he hit a bad spot near the edge of his wings.

"Really? Wow Asterios, I knew your self esteem was low, but give yourself some credit!" Elpenor teased, chuckling along at his own stupid joke.

"Oho put ahaha sock in ihit!"

"Why don't you? You're the one who won't shut up," he mocked, kneading at the base and sending him into shrill hysterics.

"Thehehen LET mehe shut up!" he whined, shaking his head back and forth. Elpenor readjusted his grip so that he couldn't even do that. "Ohoho COME OOOON!" he yelled in frustration.

Elpenor seemed to think it over before answering, "Hmm... I don't know, maybe if you admit how cute you are, I'll stop." Maybe- is he trying to trick him? Does he think he's stupid or something?

"No way, are you out of your damn mind?"

"Again with the swearing? Guess you just want to be tickled all day," he taunted smugly. Asterios tensed up, a hot blush spreading across his face.

"Shut the hell up right now if you know what's good for you!" he growled, reaching up to slap weakly and tug his hair. Anything to try and escape. Elpenor laughed as he easily brushed him off.

"No no, I get it! There are worse ways to get out of work!"

"I wasn't! You just attacked me for no reason!"

"Do I really need a reason?" Elpenor asked, grinning down at him. Asterios felt his own lips tug into a shy, giddy smile and he immediately looked away.

"Yes!" he insisted.

"Maybe I tickled you because you're always so grumpy. Ever think of that?"

"Why would I think of that," he snarked before he thought better of it. He wasn't about to admit to the fact that he had indeed given it some thought.

"I don't know, you tell me," he teased, wiggling his eyebrows suggestively. Asterios blushed, and his wings instinctively tugged against their hold in an attempt to hide his face. They could barely twitch.

He scoffed and rolled his eyes. "You're a real piece of fuckin' work, you know that?"

"And you're a ticklish asshole who keeps asking for it," Elpenor said matter of factly. That sure got his attention.

"I am not!" he denied, feeling the heat in his cheeks burn hotter.

"Really? Could've fooled me," he taunted with a smug grin.

"What do you want from me?" he whined, allowing himself to go completely limp in his hold.

This is useless, and silly, and... the most fun he's had since the last time Leander did this to him.

"I just wanna hear you laugh for once, is that a crime?" Elpenor asked, and he sounded surprisingly sincere. It sent a warm, hopeful flutter through his chest that he had to smother. He needed to deflect.

Asterios threw his head back and let out a loud, hearty, obviously fake laugh. "HA HA HA! ARE YOU HAPPY NOW?" he yelled in his face, his words practically dripping with sarcasm.

"Overjoyed," Elpenor practically purred, grabbing his wings and folding them gently so that the tips of the feathers stroked over his ears and neck. He squeaked and shut his eyes tight, his breath coming out in short bursts through his nose as he did everything he could not to laugh. It wasn't really working.

He doesn't mean it, he's just fucking with you, don't get your hopes up. He's just teasing, he's not actually having that much fun-

"Oh I'm having a blast," Elpenor taunted, smirking at the horrified look that washed over him.

Asterios stared up at him in shock, lurching forward to escape, only to remain trapped in Elpenor's arms. Not... the worst place to be trapped, if he were being honest.

"Gehehet out of my head!" he growled through helpless giggles as his own fucking feathers reduced him to nothing but breathless laughter and embarrassing snorts.

"Dude, you're the one projecting your thoughts in my head," he pointed out, barely holding back his own laughter.

"Ihihi can't hehehelp it!"

"Awww I know, isn't it great?"

Asterios didn't even want to know what shade of red he was. "Nohoho!" How he managed to sound sarcastic even now, Elpenor would never know.

"But it's the only time you're really honest with us!"

"It ihihis not!" he adamantly denied.

"Eh, agree to disagree," he shrugged, dragging the wings along his neck. Asterios squealed and shook his head back and forth, his laughter taking on a desperate pitch. His nose was scrunched adorably and his mouth hung open in a wide smile as shrill giggles and squeals continued to erupt from him. His rarely seen dimples were on full display across his rosy cheeks. It was a priceless sight to behold.

Elpenor couldn't help himself. "You know, my offer still stands. I can let you go if you just admit how downright precious you are!" he cooed in the most patronizing tone Asterios has ever heard. To make matters worse, he hugged him closer to his chest so he could nuzzle against his neck.

"Nohoho, plehehease!" Asterios couldn't even think straight; every nerve in his body set on fire while his heart felt like it skipped a hundred beats. He thrashed as much as he could, his shrieking cackles interrupted by the occasional snort.

"Alright, how 'bout you just tell me where you're most ticklish instead?" Asterios gawked at him and fervently shook his head.

"I think I'd rather die!"

"Wow, that's a bit much, even for you."

"Ehehelpenor, plehease! Just lehehet me gooo!"

"Pick your poison, tough guy," he taunted directly in his ear, sending goosebumps racing across his skin. At least now he could hide behind his wings, but that offered little solace as Elpenor rubbed what little scruff he had against his neck. In the past, Asterios had mocked him for not being able to grow a full beard, but it was just enough to be pure torture.

"Just kihihill mehe alreaDYYYY!" he broke off into a giggly shriek, flailing helplessly.

"Fine, have it your way. Death by tickles it is. Not a very heroic way to go, if you ask me," he mused smugly.

Gods save him, this is downright cruel! Fucking fine! Let the bastard win, his sanity is worth more than his shattered dignity at this point.

"Ohohokahahay, you wihihin!" he caved, and Elpenor pulled away with a smug grin. Asterios gasped for breath in between residual giggles, eyes closed and still smiling.

"I believe there's something you wanted to say?" he prompted.

His lips twitched into a forced scowl, "Yeah, you're a dick." Elpenor gasped at the insult and went back to scribbling at the base of his wings, causing him to crumble immediately.

"Okay okahay, I'm sorry!"

"That's what I thought." It took all the willpower he had not to mock him. When Asterios realized that he hadn't stopped staring at him, he let out a frustrated huff.

"By the gods, alright already! I guess I'm… maybe, kinda, a little bit... cute," he said the word as if it left a bitter taste on his tongue. He felt like he needed to rinse his mouth out with sea water.

Elpenor arched a brow in amusement. "Is that the best you can do?"

"It's the best you're gonna get."

"Fair enough," he finally relented, letting Asterios go. He let himself go completely limp on the stairs, not bothering to move his head from Elpenor's lap.

"You better sleep with one eye open tonight," he threatened, but the wide grin on his face diminished the threat.

"Yeah yeah," he waved him off dismissively.

"I mean it!" he insisted when it seemed he wasn't being taken seriously.

"Sure you do," Elpenor nodded along. Asterios rolled his eyes and sat up straight, turning away from him with a huff. One last thing wouldn't hurt...

He leaned forward and blew against his wings, eliciting one last squeal from his friend. He whipped around to fix him with a glare, but it was blatantly obvious that he was holding back a shy, playful grin.

"Try that again and see what happens."

#GET HIS GRUMPY ASS ELPENOR!!!!#they’re so so cute #i love gay people <3 #other’s fics

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