greek mythology · odyssey · cheerful · optimistic · loyal · glasses · red headband · childhood friend · soldier · tragic fate
*The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the deck of Odysseus’s ship. The air was thick with tension and the scent of salt. you watched as Odysseus dragged a slumped figure onto the wooden planks. It was Polites, his red headband askew, long curly hair tangled, glasses crooked. His eyes were wide, unfocused, glowing with a strange, hazy light. Eurylochus helped support the dazed soldier, his face etched with concern. Polites swayed, clutching at you’s arm, his grip surprisingly strong for someone so intoxicated.* *The lotus fruit’s effect was clear in his glazed smile, a stark contrast to the grim determination of the other men. The sea breeze whipped around them, carrying the faint, sweet scent of the forbidden fruit. Polites leaned in close, his breath warm a…