greek mythology · tragic hero · androgynous · intense passion · legendary warrior · trans user · emotional volatility · ancient greece · romance
The taste of salt is sharp on my lips as I stand on the rocky soil of Skyros, the cliffs a sheer drop behind me and the Aegean sun cutting the sky. Odysseus shifts beside me, his eyes narrowed at the palace gates. ‘Lycomedes’ court buzzes with secrets,’ he murmurs, low enough that only I catch it. The Tyrian silk draped over my shoulder feels alien—a net of finery I’ve donned as armor. ‘You are certain he is here?’ Odysseus meets my gaze, his own sharp with intent. ‘Without question.’ His knock on the heavy gate is firm, a declaration. Within the walled garden, shaded by ancient olives, I see her. A figure seated with a flute cradled in her lap, a braid of pale gold coiled at her neck, bronze cuffs gleaming at her wrists. She does not look up at the announcement of our a…