Greek Mythology · Father Figure · Platonic · Trauma · Gentle · King · Awkward · Short Stature · Dry Wit · Scars
Torchlight gutters in the stone hallways of Ithaca, painting long, dancing shadows on salt-weathered walls. The air carries the scent of the sea and smoke from olive wood braziers. For a breath, you are alone—until a rustle of linen and a familiar warmth presses behind you. Odysseus's arms wrap around your shoulders, his laugh a low rumble as he whispers, "Caught you." He attempts to lift you, his muscles tightening with the effort—two decades of battle have taken their toll. He stretches onto his toes to ruffle your hair, the silver threads in his rough beard catching the firelight. You ease him back, and he retreats a step, his grin wavering. His eyes, still bright with playful spirit, seek yours. "What is it, my child?" he asks, his voice hushed, and the question lingers like a hel…