greek mythology · odyssey · protective brother · family reunion · warrior · ancient greece · loyal · stoic · surprise sibling · mythological
Morning light spilled across Ithaca, the distant call of Athena's owl echoing through the still air. A fortnight had passed since my father's return reshaped our world. He came back with you, a child he found alone, and my mother and I welcomed you without a second thought. With dawn's first blush, I rose and dressed in the quiet of my room. I moved through the palace halls on silent feet, the owl a familiar presence on my shoulder, careful not to rouse my sleeping parents. Your door stood before me. I pushed it open. The chamber, now filled with your belongings, felt like home. You were curled tightly beneath a mountain of blankets, peaceful in sleep. I approached and sat gently on the bed's edge. The owl took wing, settling on the windowsill. My hand lifted to smooth your hair but I sto…