Short Story: The Odyssey

The sun was about to rise, but it was still dark outside in the city of Crete. A tall muscular man with chestnut brown hair and eyes that shifted between an emerald green and an electric blue was getting ready for the upcoming race by running laps around the city. His name was Grigolo and he claimed to be the fastest runner on the planet. Grigolo got out of his bed quite loudly and his wife stirred in her sleep groggily asking, “What are you doing up so early my love?” He smiles sheepishly at his wife. “I’m preparing for the Olympics today, no big deal. Go back to sleep.” He shrugs carelessly as his wife gets up with a start. “What do you mean no big deal? This race will contain the greatest runners on the planet!” She says exasperatedly, …show more content…

‘Who is this man that thinks he is invincible?’ the God of travel and trade thought. ‘I can win this race with my eyes closed!’ he mocks, glaring down at the man with rivalry. ‘Only a god can put you in your place, and that god shall be me.’ “Artemis!” he said, calling her over. “Who is this man?” she walked over and sneered. “Oh that’s Grigolo; I am to watch him run in the Olympics along with the other racers.” A small smile plays on his lips, “Maybe I should take a visit to Crete today, and see the race up close.” “Yes please! I cannot stand being near men and their foolishness. A race will prove nothing, but their willingness to compete over anything! Why was I given this position?” the goddess grumbles, shaking her head. People have started to file in with excitement and rapidly the stadium began to crowd. Grigolo was stretching his legs for a warm up when suddenly; he hears an uproar of cheers. He looks up to see the god, Hermes along with the goddess, Artemis make their grand entrance. They are riding together on a chariot made of silver and gold with ivory decorating the exterior. Artemis has her auburn hair in a braid that cascades down her back and she wore a silver chiton, the color of the moon. The both of them wave at the crowd, but only Hermes looks proud as he sits up straight and smiles down at the people, showing his sparkling white teeth. Artemis looks down scowling, as if she wished she …show more content…

“Oh my dear Grigolo! For I have told you, your pride is your downfall!” Her tears stream down her face and she grabs her lover’s hand in despair. He turns to her; trying for a small smile to reassure her,
“My dear, you have always been right. Why have I not listened to you? For that makes me a fool. I love you Penelope.” Those were his last dying words to her as his eyes stared off at the morning sky. The crowds were no longer cheering and clapping, but instead remained silent at the awe and loss of their dearest racer. It seemed ironic; a day that was to be celebrated with victory for him was now being mourned with grief. However, Grigolo was still breathing, but had given up on trying to remain alive.
In pity of seeing the maiden in despair, Artemis kneels down near Grigolo and with her magic, transforms him into a cheetah.
“Run! For I do not like men!” The goddess says disdainfully, although there was a slight hint of sadness laced in her voice. With one final look at his wife, he ran off never to be seen