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BITTERSWEET MOMENTS

"Be the reason someone believes
in the goodness of people."
—Unknown
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ANXIOUS. That's all Athena could think of when she was instructed to meet privately with her father. Undoubtedly concerned about the mission she was going to embark on... going to Earth. The mere thought of mortals brought a grim expression on her face, pressing her lips together from all she'd learned about them. Fiddling with the golden chain from her bracelet, a feeling of dread was in the dense air. Perhaps she was overthinking things; all she had to do was complete the task and return home. No feelings attached.

Easier said than done.

The crimson cloak draped over her shoulders, flowing effortlessly with the length of the gown. Her heels were clicking along the marble floor as she strived with her chin high, her eyes flickering in every direction with mild interest. Her father was always at the Pantheon Hall, built to honor the future rulers. Only she knows about this secret location, said to be handed down to her when the time comes. Along with Zeus' sacred thunderbolt, her powers will accumulate tenfold when she's crowned Queen of Olympus.

Each Greek God had their own respective place in Olympus; Athena just happens to be the Garden she always visits. Fortunately, her temple was beside the garden, where many citizens asked for her wisdom. Granted, hers was the most visited every day besides her father's, for she was Olympus' favorite. There was no denying how the people adored the goddess, yet she didn't focus on the followers she received but rather on what she could do to serve them with respect and kindness.

Upon reaching the Hall, her eyes trailed along with the intricate design, the craftsmanship of Hephaestus himself. Athena secured her diadem before grazing her knuckles, knocking against the oak wood. It was only a few moments before she heard Zeus call out to her, inhaling one quick breath as she opened the door. Most times, the King always held a proud smile to her, but never did she see him with troubled eyes.

"Father, you wish to see me?" Athena questioned politely, bowing at her father with respect. Zeus observed his daughter, silently smiling as he dismissed the formal gesture. The goddess rose with a slight frown, strolling closer with her hands intertwined as she often did when she was perplexed.

"Athena... I'm afraid I have something to tell you...." Zeus confessed, his face going blank for a few moments. His facial expressions hardened, tightly gripping his hand that turned pale. Athena kept her chin high, not liking the secrecy when it concerned her.

"What is it, father?" She asked, her voice dripping with worry. She placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, sensing the tension of concern and... fear. Zeus brought his hand over hers, stroking it before he motioned her to follow him. The goddess did want she was told, glancing at the many sculptures of her ancestors. All seemingly staring at her with void expressions, a heavy responsibility she'll burden before becoming Queen.

"I haven't been completely honest with you that you must know." The King explained as his voice boomed in the room. They stood in front of the first King of Olympus sculpture, Kronos. Athena never knew much about her grandfather, only from reading the books written about him. Much of their history seemed to be erased or forgotten, just like the prophecies foretold.

"And that is...?" Athena stated, not completely understanding the situation. She curiously observed her surroundings, wondering why they were here. Every silent moment incremented her uneasy expression, clenching her jaw faintly to await the worst.

"Eons ago, when our ancestors formed the universe, six elemental crystals were discovered across the virgin cosmos. These Infinity Stones each control an essential aspect of existence: Space, Reality, Power, Soul, Mind, and Time. Afraid that someone will want to use those stones for their selfish reasons, our ancestors dispersed them within the realms." Zeus announced the hidden history erased from existence. Olympus was no stranger to keeping things concealed... much like Asgard.

"Infinity stones? You mean... the war is really about retrieving one of the stones?" Athena inquired, her eyes staring at the sculpture. Turning her gaze away briefly, sighing inaudibly as she awaited the unavoidable truth.

"Yes... the Space Stone. In the wrong hands, it can devastate mankind for they don't understand the true power it holds." The King narrated, nodding gently while Athena realized what he meant.

"The war to end all wars... that's why you need me to go. To protect the Space Stone. But why me?" Athena felt her eyebrows knitted together, her lips pressed into a thin line. Zeus wrapped an arm around her shoulder, letting her know to face him.

"Because my daughter... you'll bring peace, for you hold more power than you know," Zeus revealed, but that wasn't enough. There was more he wasn't telling her... she just knows it.

"How come I never knew about this? There's no mention of the Infinity Stones in our sacred library." The Goddess of Wisdom insisted, utterly recalling all the books she'd read. And there was still more she was missing to read. Perhaps she might find a clue if she searches hard enough.

"There is a lot you don't know. And that's why you must seek the truth, both for Olympus and yourself." The God of the Sky declared solemnly with a neutral tone. The goddess simply wanted to groan at the lack of information given; she needed to know more about this.

"...I understand," Athena ultimately bit her tongue to prevent saying something she wasn't supposed to. Secretly wanting to remark yet knew better than to act upon herself, understanding there was nothing else she could do.

"There is one last thing you should know," Zeus confesses with a neutral facial expression. Athena nodded her head, signaling him to continue as he placed something in her hand. He proceeded with caution, "Once you leave Olympus... you could never return. Fortunately, your brother Hermes wanted to give this to you."

Athena felt a small object, running her fingers against the cold metal known as Uru. It was a portable portal that would allow her back home. The Uru is one of the precious metals in the Nine Realms; only royals were allowed to have this prized possession. Olympus was widely acknowledged for having advanced technology, while the other Kingdoms were living with the simplicity of what was provided. The goddess nodded her head silently, wishing Hermes was here. Unfortunately, he was away attending royal matters, "...Thank you, father. Please tell Hermes once he returns."

"Of course. My dear Athena— one day, you'll inherit the throne, and Olympus will be yours." The King reminded her, the goddess felt her smile fade within a second.

"Olympus was never ours, rather it's the people's," Athena spoke wisely, gracefully walking back to the entrance of the hall. She clasped her hands together; thoughts were invading her mind as she silently stared at the last sculpture of her father. There was an empty spot next to his, and it was going to be hers— the first Queen without a King who would rule Olympus.

"...Go now. You must prepare for the journey ahead of you." He declared firmly, signaling her that she may leave at once. The ruler of Olympus placed his hand on her shoulder, a sign of acknowledgment and respect for his daughter.

"I'll make you proud." Athena curtsied before grabbing some of her gown fabric in her hand. Gracefully adjusting her crimson cloak, displaying loyalty to him and their Kingdom.

"You already have," Zeus declared with a proud smile. Athena excused herself, glancing at her father one last time... only with a smile that relieved her worries. She's been sent to many missions, what will be the difference between this one?

Who knew how wrong she was....

-ˋˏ ༻❁༺ ˎˊ-

"MUST you go, Thea?" Eliana questioned her friend, continuing to help her with fixing her attire to something more subtle. Athena sat on a sleek pearl-white chair as she stared at her reflection, slowly turning around to face her lady-in-waiting. The young maiden stopped what she was doing, clearly disturbed by the news.

"I must, Ella. I have to serve and protect Olympus, and I'll be back before you know it." Athena insisted, placing her hand on Eliana's with a sincere smile. Both maidens knew each other for many years; therefore, seeing one leave was heart-wrenching. They were inseparable.

"I know... I heard your father would hold a grand ball in your honor when you return." The lady-in-waiting sighed as she recalled what she heard. Until she realized that she spoiled the surprise, Athena's family was planning for her. The goddess seemed visibly confused about it, yet Eliana was already trying to change the conversation.

"How come I wasn't aware of this?" Athena questioned firmly, glancing at her friend with slight suspicion. Eliana gently clutched the book she was holding, handing it to the Princess with a long sigh.

"Perhaps because I know how much you loathe those events and rather spend your time reading stories," Eliana wittily commented, seeing Athena already heading towards the small library in her room. The goddess didn't notice at first, focusing on grabbing her favorite book to take on the trip.

"I don't always read," Athena feebly defended herself, her lady-in-waiting pointed to the thick book she was currently holding. The goddess huffed discreetly, trying to find the right words before stating, "Occasionally, I do, but it's the only time I don't think about my royal duties."

"Of course, of course," Eliana brushed off the unconvincing excuse in a teasing manner. Nonetheless, she helped Athena with organizing her room. "I was just thinking about the ceremony."

"About what exactly? It's utterly a waste of my time when I could do other things," The Olympian Princess stated, already loathing the idea of the ceremony. Her pet, Pallas, stood on the wooden pedestal that held her golden helmet, something she only wears during special occasions or war. Most times, it wasn't the latter.

"Just imagine... Princes across the Nine Realms coming, and there would be dancing, music, laughter, and joy. You'll be the one receiving the attention when your father declares you as the next ruler of Olympus," The lady-in-waiting daydreamed with a soft sigh. For once, Athena mentally agreed to have a splendid time. That was until Eliana continued talking that ruined the moment, "Oh, and imagine the Princes being swept off their feet when they see your ethereal beauty."

Athena then groaned that her friend had to ruin it; she didn't want to be known for just her beauty. The young goddess rolled her eyes in annoyance, yet her lips curved into an upward smile, thinking how Aphrodite would react if she heard that. She then insisted, "Oh, please, Ella. No Prince will ever do such a thing. Beauty isn't all that matters when I rather have my intelligence."

"Any man who only sees your beauty is a fool. Then again, you never know... oh, and I've heard the Asgardian Princes are quite handsome. Which reminds me, how was the visit? Surely you've met them? How do they look?" Eliana asked numerous questions; her eyes twinkled in wonder. The young maiden always loved the idea of love at first sight, something Athena completely disagreed with.

"One question at a time," Athena jokes playfully, extending her arm for Pallas to climb on. The owl eventually landed on the shoulder, nuzzling its head against her hair. The goddess thought about it, "Well, Asgard is beautiful during the evening. Queen Frigga was kind enough to let me explore the Kingdom, although I must say they are a bit behind with technology. You should have seen the palace, not to mention the gorgeous view of the Nine Realms."

"It sounds... magical," Eliana tried to visualize, but one question still wasn't answered. Glancing at the Olympian Princess with a broad smile, "And the Princes?"

Athena recalled that she almost had the chance to know them, yet she had to presume her royal duties. Unconsciously gripping her book, she placed it against the lavish bed with the rest of her belongings. The goddess stated with a guilty look, purposely avoiding her friend's eager gaze, "...I haven't had the pleasure to meet them actually."

"What?! But you said so yourself that you would've loved to meet them." The young maiden exclaimed in surprise, pouting in disappointment. Eliana placed both hands on Athena's arms, confused as to why she didn't have the chance when she had it. The maiden heard that the Asgardian Princes were polar opposites yet had similar interests as her friend.

"I know what I said, I just... had to return home to resume my duties," The Olympian Princess sighed softly through her nose, unsure why she needed to have this conversation.

"Sometimes, I wonder why you're so oblivious to the fact you could have met them. Do you even know their names?" Eliana inquired with mild interest, three things occupied Athena's mind. Her responsibilities as a Princess, her siblings, and her leisure which was reading.

"I'm afraid not," The goddess answered sincerely, shrugging her shoulders discreetly with a faint expression.

"The oldest is Thor, and the youngest is Loki. Only a few years apart, but I've heard they're quite handsome," Eliana never seemed to understand, no matter how much her friend told her. Of course, the Goddess of Wisdom remembered their names as Frigga would mention them ever so often.

"Not again with this," Athena rolled her eyes once again, not caring about it when she had to finish before leaving in a few hours. Her mind is preoccupied with what awaits her on Earth, wanting to be prepared for anything.

"And I forgot to mention both are skilled in combat yet are complete opposites of each other. It's true! And you must introduce me when you meet them!" She remembered before concluding, standing beside her friend. Athena was relieved that she stopped talking.

"I am aware, Ella. I'll try but duty before self-interest." Athena pointed out, she was going to continue organizing, but Eliana stopped her. The lady-in-waiting positioned her hand over the goddess who glanced at her, slightly startled by her actions.

"Athena, let me tell you something important. If there's one thing I love about you is how selfless you are," The young maiden started, her voice turned to a more serious tone. The goddess observed closely with a neutral expression; she sat on the bed silently. Patting on the side for Eliana to sit down, which she did after noticing how calm Athena was.

"Thank you...?" The Olympian Princess uttered, her eyebrows softly forming an arched expression.

"But the sooner you realize that there's more to life than just being Queen... that's worth living for. Everything you've ever known will change, and you'll find someone who will love you. I guarantee I'll find someone for you." Eliana promised, grabbing Athena's left hand tightly. Their fingers intertwine while sharing small smiles, leaning against each other.

"Ella... you know I made a vow not to love a man," Athena answered slowly, her expression dulled after that. Remembering the day clearly— when her stepmother, Hera, declared that if she wanted to be a warrior maiden, she would vow and promise never to love anyone.

Never did Athena realize that promises were meant to be broken.

"No offense Thea but it's absurd that your stepmother is controlling your life." Eliana snarkily said, her face grimacing at the thought of the current Queen. Everyone had their personal opinion, yet everyone agreed that she didn't care for anyone, only herself. Hera was known by many names, but Eliana's personal favorite was— pardon her language— A Narcissist Bitch.

"We both know she can't control me even if she could. However, my father expects me to remain pure and untouched by men." Athena explained sincerely; a small scowl appeared on her lips.

"Don't you see? All you do is please others, and not once did you think about yourself. May I remind you that you have control of your life... please don't let your heart of gold rust away because you didn't do anything for yourself," Eliana insisted, wanting her to swear truthfully.

"I promise...." She promised, flashing a small grin. The friends sat there in silence for a few minutes, enjoying the company. It would be a long time before they would see each other again; perhaps to Eliana, it would be weeks or months. Yet for Athena... it could be years in an unknown world; what if it affected her powers negatively? Most likely, anything could go wrong, from failing her mission or that she'll never return home.

"Come on... let me help you finish packing. You'll need to leave soon," The lady-in-waiting reminded sadly, both maidens nodding their heads as they finished with what they had to do. Athena thought about something for a while, knowing that she was going to leave behind another part of herself. Pallas seemingly sensed her sadness, placing its head against her neck and rubbing it in a supportive manner.

"Ella... can you please take care of Pallas for me when I'm gone?" Athena requested, her owl whistled a lovely sound as it stretched its wings before retracting them. The lady-in-waiting smiled sincerely, yet her eyes held a sadness that almost glossed with incoming tears.

"Of course, Thea. She'll be safe... I promise." Eliana vowed as the Princess returned a grateful smile. She felt her owl nuzzle her neck and peck her hair strands, seemingly hiding through her long brown hair.

"I'll miss you, dear." Athena gently stroked her pet's feathers, Pallas cooing against her warm touch. The intelligent bird was quite reserved that it would only be around people Athena trusted the most. Perhaps sensing the pure souls of those, rejecting others that don't. It helped determine who to trust or not for the goddess. The young maiden outstretched her arm, Pallas gave one last chirp to Athena before going onto Eliana's.

"Please be safe... Olympus needs you more than you know." Her friend told her solemnly, holding Pallas close to her forearm. The Olympian Princess nodded, collecting her things with a collective grin.

"I promise I'll miss you." Athena vocalized as she embraced the younger woman. Eliana reciprocated her actions, wrapping her arms around her tightly.

"Me too, Thea...." Eliana muttered as tears slowly cascaded down her face. The faint sound coming from the Tower of the Sun signaled that it was the remaining hour before night invaded the sky. Athena hesitantly let go, wiping the tears away as she glanced around her room. She grabbed the small bag that held a few items before leaving, not turning back now.

Strolling towards the broken dimensional bridge, she was going to use her dimensional teleportation. Never did she suspect that most of her siblings and father were waiting for her, saying one last goodbye before she left. She noticed almost everyone was there, all but one Olympian. Hera... Athena was skeptical of her missing appearance, but she didn't focus on that. Her aunts were first to wish her farewell, blessing her with gifts that she didn't find necessary. Next were her brothers; they all held a natural expression still; she knew it was more than that.

"Please come home soon. I can't have my favorite sister leave me with... them." Artemis pleas her, discreetly pointing at the other Olympians with distaste. The Goddess of Wisdom chuckled at her humor; she was going to miss her young sister the most.

"May I remind you, Artie, that I'm your twin. The better-looking one, of course." Apollo interrupted them, smirking as he teased his twin from a distance. It was intriguing that they loved to be at each other's throats.

"See what I mean? I can't stand him if he continues to do this. What will happen to our training sessions? Our nightly walks during the full moon?" The Goddess of Hunt asked worriedly, Athena calming her down with a pleasant grin.

"No need to fret about it, dear sister. We'll continue our activities when I return." She reassured her, giving Apollo a tight hug. He didn't want to admit it, yet Athena was the most important person to him... resembling a mother figure. Even better than that narcissistic bit— sorry, Hera.

"I hope so, or else I'll die being with him any longer. Having a twin brother isn't exactly wonderful." Artemis declared, wrapping her arms around her sister as she uttered the last part clearly for her twin to listen.

"I heard that!" Apollo hollered, causing the Goddess of Wisdom to muffle her laugh softly. The rest of the Olympians had mixed expressions towards the twins but neither of them minded their thoughts.

"You were supposed to!" Artemis snapped immediately, groaning under her breath. Athena nodded her head, loosening her grip as she visited her remaining sisters. The Goddess of Love smiled sadly, wanting her to stay.

"I'll miss you," Aphrodite muttered softly, placing a lovely orchid on Athena's hair. The brunette woman had her lips in a half-smile, obviously despising saying goodbye when she would be coming home soon. "You were always blessed with beauty and strength."

"Thank you... and I'll miss you too." Athena gripped her sister's hands as she slowly loosened them. Lastly was her father, his dazzling blue eyes held pride in her that only made her heart churn. She exhaled as the Olympian Princess uttered, "Goodbye, father...."

"May you return home safely," Zeus said, seeing his favorite daughter leave for who knows how long. Athena appreciated the support she received; still, it was making it harder for her to leave home. The pleasant memories stung her heart, having some bittersweet moments that made her almost second-guess herself. She reached the bridge shortly after alone, observing the stunning view that seemed to be at the edge of the realm.

And Athena left Olympus without turning back.