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Chapter 34 - Androkles
Last Updated:
2024-10-29 19:42:56
BryantThat was a bold move for Ismene-Eirene! And Androkles was all for it. Nikos can go to hell. And Dio, you rock!
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The Destroyer Chapter 35 - Ismene-Eirene
Two days. Two days of worry and nightmares. Even though I got to speak with Androkles and learn why he was doing this, I couldn't stop being unsettled. I don't trust Lord Ares. I kept fearing that he would not stop and would kill Andy. That is my biggest fear. I don't think I would survive losing him. Which only leads me to more questions. Andy is supposed to be my friend. That's all. Yet I worry for him and fear losing him as much… maybe even more, than I did for Alkaios. How is that possible if Alkaios was my soulmate? Rea has gone to the Ares training ground to be my eyes and ears. She told me he was still diligently training with Lord Zeus, always drawing a large crowd of soldiers. My parents were livid to find that I'd gone to see Androkles and have since found ways to keep me busy at the house. I'm glad that Lord Zeus is in his corner and helping him. I know I'd be of no help to him in preparing. But today is the day. Today he faces Lord Ares in the arena. "He will be okay. L
The Destroyer Chapter 36 - Androkles
I’d sent Helene to find Ismene-Eirene as soon as I got to the changing room. That is, if she’s in the arena. If Helene can’t find her here, I told her to go to her family’s home to fetch her. I promised we’d talk, and there is much on my mind I want to speak to her about all of it. How strange is it that the girl I saved from the ruins months ago in the wake of a chimera attack would have become so important to me? Before her, I would have said I didn’t have any friends. Then Dio would have interrupted and introduced himself as my best friend. But now, if someone were to ask who my best or dearest friend is, I would say Ismene-Eirene. There are no secrets between us. There are no lies or half-truths, either. Ismene-Eirene is the one person in Olympus I feel I can be myself. She makes me feel comfortable in letting my guard down, sharing my mind, and sharing my heart. When I am with her, the world feels brighter. It feels like a place I belong. I want to bask in her warmth forever. W
The Destroyer Chapter 37 - Androkles
She seemed content at least to stand here and let me rub her forehead. She reached up and gently ran the back of her fingers along my arm. "I wish that I could have seen you. I wish that I could see you, Andy," she whispered. I may have cuts and bruises along my arm, but I don’t care because she is touching me. "I'm glad you couldn't. Witnessing such things... I didn't want you to see me like that." I told her. I’d felt a surge of power that I’d only felt at rare moments previously, even if they were fleeting. I was reasonably sure there were moments out there, flickers, of the destroyer I’m prophesied to be. But when Eugenius started to trash talk about Ismene-Eirene. I couldn’t contain it. The rage was too much to control. She continued touching me, fingers gently caressing up and down my forearm. It was oddly calming. No, it’s not odd, not anymore. The more I’ve spent with her, the more I’ve realized something. I would die for this woman, kill for her, and move heaven and earth t
The Destroyer Chapter 38 - Ismene-Eirene
I was irrationally angry with Lord Eros for speaking so plainly and crushing what hope he may have had. It wasn't surprising that he had no soulmate or destined love in Olympus. It was like the world itself stacked against him. Lord Eros was plain with him? And the detached voice hurt me to hear. I hate to think he was told he had no love in his future. And don’t get me started on his father or Eugenius wanting to pick his bride for him. He deserves a woman that will want him for him, for the man he is not for his title and what that would do for her or her family’s station in society. Andy is a fantastic man. He is everything a woman could ask for in a husband. He is thoughtful, strong, brave, loyal, passionate, and honest. "Eugenius certainly can't do that now. Even your father loses his control now that you're Lord Ares." I said softly. That was one of the benefits of his win tonight. They have lost all control over his life, and I am so happy for him. "No... suppose they can't.
The Destroyer Chapter 39 - Ismene-Eirene
My breathing had gone shallow. I don't know if I want to hear more. I don't want to imagine what Eugenius threatened to do to me. If he was willing to have me followed, who knows how far he'd go. "Please don't make me say it." he pleaded. It must not be good for Andy to plead like that. I don't think I've ever heard him so distraught. And it just solidifies my decision that I don't want to know and that Andy truly is the best man I could have as a husband. "Just... know he threatened you harm… physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and socially," he said. I nodded and squeezed his hand. He said plenty without details, and I can only consider the worst. And the worst wouldn't be killing me, just making me wish he had. I shuddered at the horrid thought that crossed my mind. Eugenius is genuinely evil, and Olympus should bow at Andy's feet in gratitude for removing him from power. "You don't have to say more. I won't make you repeat such vile words. I'm not sure I want to hea
The Destroyer Chapter 40 - Androkles
“Thank you, but no reason to be formal," I assured him, raising my free hand slightly. “I don’t think I could be informal, Lord Ares.” Leander bowed his head, stressing my new title. “Thank you for walking our daughter home. I’m sure you have more important things to do. Your House must be waiting to celebrate with their new Ares." he said, trying to suggest I should go. “Yes, we wouldn’t want to keep you from celebrating with your House," Elaine added. “Thank you for your consideration, but there isn’t anything more important than Ismene-Eirene," I stated. Ismene-Eirene smiled, blushing a little as she squeezed my hand. It was then that her parents noticed our joined hands. Generally, I escorted her with her hand on my arm, more formal and proper. This was very different. “And what might you mean by that?" Elaine asked. “Well… Leander and Elaine. Ismene-Eirene and I spoke tonight after my fight and made a decision. So now we have come to you to ask your blessing on our engageme
The Destroyer Chapter 41 - Ismene-Eirene
After Androkles left, I excused myself to go to my room. I needed to pack, but I mainly wanted to be alone for a few moments. To let it all sink in. I took Alexis off his leash and then flopped onto my bed, smiling. “I’m going to marry Androkles." I sighed, reaching up and lightly touching my lips. Closing my eyes, I could easily recall everything about our first kiss. I could still feel Androkles’ rough lips that moved so sweetly against mine. The sheer memory of our kiss sent shivers through my body. It’s a good thing I was alone. I wouldn’t want to explain why I was blushing. I would be dreaming about our kiss, about my first kiss. I frowned a little, wondering if it was Androkles’ first kiss. Would I be his first in anything? I knew we were close in age, but expectations of men vs. women are very different. Even more so when you account for his position and who his father is. “Knowing his father, he probably took him to a brothel. Or maybe some girl or servant was happy enough
The Destroyer Chapter 42 - Ismene-Eirene
I sighed and nodded. Androkles was right. There was still much we needed to do. At least we will get through it all together. “I understand. And it will give me more time to become acclimated to the House and ready to fill my role as Lady of Ares House." I nodded, doing my best to school my expression to not look disappointed. I was hoping to be his wife sooner than later. But I know that other things are more important. I blinked as I felt him take my hand into his. “Trust me, I don’t wish to wait months to be your husband," Andy assured me, squeezing my hand lightly. I couldn’t help but smile. At least I’m not the only one that doesn’t like the sound of months. “Part of what else would take so long is the idea of the big council member wedding." he sighed. “Yes, but we don’t probably have a choice. Do we?" I sighed. “Oh, we do, or I’m making it so. I don’t want some big wedding with the whole council and high-ranked people that are only there to be polite and from obligation b
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The Destroyer Chapter 67 - Androkles
I’d wanted to stay in the room with Ismene-Eirene, but Helene and Rea shooed me out to the hall. I could hear Ismene-Eirene in pain, and I hated it. I hated not being able to take the pain from her. I paced the hall, stalked like a caged animal with my eyes darting to the door at every cry from my wife. Hypatos sighed against the opposite wall as he watched me. Saea sighed and rolled her eyes, and tugged at his arm. I don’t know what the satyr whispered to my steward, but he found it amusing. I glared at them as they just smiled innocently at me. I know they are talking about me and most likely mocking my nervous energy, and to hell with them. Since the day we met, all I’ve wanted to do was protect Ismene-Eirene from pain. And when I heard a loud cry of pain, I said to hell with waiting. Screw what is normal or acceptable. I don’t give a damn if most men in Olympus don’t enter the delivery room. I couldn’t stay away. I can’t protect her from the pain of bringing our children into th
The Destroyer Chapter 66 - Ismene-Eirene
“I take it the doctor and midwife hadn’t realized that yet. Well, don’t blame them. I have the healing touch to sense the two babies.” Melanthios explained. “And I can hear their heartbeats easily.” Rosalyn nodded. I was still dealing with what the doctor and midwife had told us at our last visit. I’ve worried about my baby and my chances of surviving childbirth. And now Lord Melanthios and Lady Rosalyn have added to my distress by telling me there are TWO! Does that mean both babies are breech? Or is it just that one of them is? My mind has a million questions that I can’t form into words. “Would you like to hear your children?” Rosalyn offered. Her offer threw me off guard, completely derailing all my new fears. “I… can hear them?” I asked. “Of course. I’ll put the ear tips into your ears and then press the drum on your belly. You’ll be able to hear their heartbeats this way.” she explained, doing exactly as she explained. My eyes widened as I smiled, hearing their steady, fas
The Destroyer Chapter 65 - Androkles
Life has mostly returned to normal or perhaps a new normal now that Eugenius and Nikos are dead. Against my better judgment, I let Bion live to be sent to the Underworld with the other traitors. He had better be grateful for every breath he takes. I only spared him because Ismene-Eirene asked that no further blood be shed. And I wouldn’t refuse her, even if she wasn’t pregnant with our first child.Today we are meeting with the doctor from Apollo and a midwife from Hera to check up on the pregnancy as Ismene-Eirene has been having a migraine that seems never to end and has complained of pains in her abdomen that aren’t the baby kicking. I’m not sure what I’m doing, but I know I want to be as involved as I’m allowed. Not to mention I don’t trust most people with my wife.
The Destroyer Chapter 64 - Ismene-Eirene
It's probably for the best that no one tried to stop us on our way to our bedroom. It’s been months since he was home. I want and need to have this time with him. And while most probably fear him more than me, I think pregnancy hormones may make me the one to fear if they did get in the way. The door had barely closed before his lips were on mine, and I felt my back pressed into the door. “Ahem…" someone cleared their throat nearby. With a groan, we both pulled back from the kiss breathlessly. “Hypatos, you better have a damn good reason to be in here,” Androkles responded, not hiding his annoyance. I blushed at the realization of finding it was Hypatos in here. If anything, I would have expected Rea or Helene. “I was trying to leave m’lord. I put some food and drinks out by the bath Rea and Helene had prepared. So, I will gladly go if you move from the door. I have better things to be doing than standing around here." Hypatos explained. Androkles took my hand and moved us away fr
The Destroyer Chapter 63- Androkles
It was strange, to say the least, as we marched back into Olympia. I saw people from various Houses lining the streets, and they were… cheering. I don't think I've ever heard cheering for me. There was cheering after my arena fight against Eugenius, but I think they'd have cheered if I lost too. The mob is a fickle thing, that's for sure. I gave slight nods as we passed the crowds. As we came to a stop at the gates of House Ares. Holding up a hand, I signaled the dismissal of the army. I watched as the soldiers broke ranks to find their families in the crowd. I watched as wives, children, and mothers hugged the soldier that returned home to them. Most of the women contained tears, but some couldn't. They may have married a Spartan, but it didn't make them Spartans. I could hear crying, both in joy and sorrow. As I know, some widows or parents would not find their soldiers standing here. I'll have to make my rounds tomorrow to notify the families of those that died, but that will wait
The Destroyer Chapter 62 - Ismene-Eirene
Androkles has been gone for nearly two months now. And I don’t know if it’s because of the pregnancy, but it feels like an eternity since he left. We received word that he had defeated Eugenius and Nikos and would be returning home. But that was weeks ago. But I understand that marching home takes time. Especially as they travel with the injured and dead, his letter advised a battalion would be taking the prisoners directly to the Underworld for judgment. Today I was outside, getting fresh air and exercising as my doctor recommended. Rea and Helene have been of great help in making sure everything is getting done and that my instructions are being obeyed. I also ensured that the main House and the grounds were being cleaned and readied for when Androkles and the army would return. We didn’t know how soon that would be, but I wanted to be prepared. Mitha is still here even though the rebellion has ended. She said she would not leave till my husband dismissed her as he was the one that
The Destroyer Chapter 61 - Androkles
I’ve been away from Ismene-Eirene for over a month now. It feels much longer, which is strange. I never really missed home while gone on an assignment. But then again, I never had someone I wanted to return to. I write weekly, though my letters are updates on the war’s progress. I can’t send my wife a letter saying what I want to say. I don’t know how to write in braille, and I certainly don’t want someone reading my words to her. Only she needs to know what’s in my heart or my head. And it feels somehow like a copout if I write how much I love her instead of telling her. So, I’ll have to wait until I can return to say anything I want. We’ve at least made some headway in this war. My father and Eugenius had gathered many followers. However, not all are pledged to Ares or even any house. Rather odd for unpledged Olympians to want to side with the likes of them. It seems war tends to make strange bedfellows. Speaking of war-making strange bedfellows, Hypatos split off from my main for
The Destroyer Chapter 60 - Ismene-Eirene
“Death to….” someone started to shout, but their words turned to a cry of pain as I heard a thud. “I am sorry, but if you call for death, The House of Ares is the wrong house.” Mitha taunted as I heard bones cracking. I’m guessing she landed on my would-be attacker. Alexis growled, barking, taking a defensive stance before I heard him sink his teeth into someone who let out a cry of pain. Andy was right about Alexis. Even if the training never yielded results for him to be a reliable seeing-eye dog, he would protect me nearly as fiercely as him. “Bastard dog!” a voice shouted. “ALEXIS!” I yelled as I jumped to my feet, worried for my precious dog, as I heard him whimper in pain. “On your left, Lady Ismene!” Mitha shouted. Her warning came simultaneously when I felt the slight breeze of her wings before another thud. She must have taken down another attacker. I reacted quickly, revealing the long silver stiletto blade, and stabbed to my left. I winced as I put as much strength as
The Destroyer Chapter 59 - Ismene-Eirene
I don't think either of us realized we had fallen asleep till there was a knock at the door. "Lord Ares. Lady Ismene. The army is ready." Hypatos called. I sighed as we detached ourselves. I don't want to think about how this could be the last time we are together. I don't want to consider a future that doesn't include Andy. My stomach rolled at the mere thought. I shook my head, dismissing those negative thoughts. This is Androkles, Lord Ares, The Destroyer, the man I love even if I haven't dared say the words. He will return to me alive. Olympus is doomed if he doesn't, Olympus is doomed, and I don't mean because of Nikos and Eugenius. Because I will rain fire upon those responsible for taking him from me. I am still determining how I will do it. But so, help me, I will find a way. "We shall be there momentarily. You may wait at the front steps." Andy instructed. We dressed quickly, helping each other with our clothes. I love it when Andy helps dress me almost as much as when he
