Lyra stood at the entrance of the room assigned to her and her siblings, taking in the grandeur of the space.

The room was far more luxurious than anything they had ever known. The walls were adorned with intricate frescoes depicting various myths and legends, the floor covered with plush rugs, and the furniture made of finely crafted wood and gilded accents.

Yet, despite the beauty, a sense of emptiness loomed over her heart.

Alexander and Callista explored the room with wide-eyed wonder, momentarily distracted from the weight of their recent experiences. Lyra watched them, her heart aching with the knowledge of what she would soon have to explain.

"This place is amazing!" Alexander exclaimed, bouncing on his toes as he ran from one end of the room to the other. "Look, Lyra! There's a balcony!"

"And a big bed! We can all sleep here together!" Callista followed, giggling.

"Yes, we can," Lyra forced a smile.

She paused for a moment, trying to remember last time she slept in a bed. It must've been at least four years, ever since their parents decided that the twins could sleep on their own and placed them with Theo, not caring that it was Lyra's place. She had to find another place to sleep and ever since, she always slept in a corner, on some rags she found lying around.

She quickly shook those thoughts off, focusing on her siblings again. Those times had passed and everything changed. Their polis was destroyed, their home most likely burnt down along with the rest. For now, she decided to focus on the fact that they were on Olympus, away from the danger.

Just as Lyra focused on her siblings again, she saw Callista stop, her eyes fixed on a mural of a beautiful goddess surrounded by animals. She had no idea which goddess this might be, but she had a strong feeling it might've been Artemis. But the goddess looked different, so she wasn't so sure.

"Do you think we'll get to meet her?" the girl asked, pointing to the painting.

"Maybe, Calli," her sister gave her a weak shrug. "There are many gods and goddesses here. We might meet more of them."

The twins' excitement was palpable, a stark contrast to the heavy burden Lyra carried in her heart.

She knew she needed to find a way to talk to them about everything that had happened, but she needed to process it herself first. She took a deep breath, trying to gather her thoughts.

"Why don't you two play quietly for a bit?" she suggested gently. "I need to think for a moment."

Alexander and Callista exchanged a look and nodded, moving to a corner of the room where they found some toys that seemed to have been placed there just for them.

As they began to play, their laughter filled the room, offering Lyra a brief respite from her worries. She closed her eyes, taking another deep breath.

The images of the attack on their polis flashed through her mind—the chaos, the destruction, the fear. She saw her father's face, the last look of determination, quickly melting into fear and shock just before he was struck down. She remembered the screams of other people, the smoke, the feeling of utter helplessness.

Tears welled up in her eyes, but she fought them back. She couldn't afford to break down, not now. Not when she had her siblings to think about, to take care of. 

When everything catches up to them, when all this wonder and excitement leave them, and the negative emotion crush down on them, she had to stay strong and help them navigate through their emotions, so they wouldn't down in their sorrow and pain. 

But then, she thought of their home, now most likely reduced to rubble, just like the rest of the polis. She thought of their mother, Theo, and Maris. She squeezed her eyes shut, as the wave of unwanted emotions surged within her once again. 

Where were they? Were they safe? Did they get away? 

The uncertainty gnawed at her, but she pushed it aside. Her priority now was Alexander and Callista. They needed to understand what had happened, but in a way that wouldn't terrify them. 

She realised she couldn't wait unitl it naturally catches up to them, as then, it would hit them multiple times harder. Maybe if she explained everything and was immediately there to help them cope, they wouldn't be as crushed. At least she hoped it would be so. She had no idea what to feel herself, much less how to help her siblings now. But she had to try.

"Lyra?" Callista's voice broke through her thoughts.

Lyra opened her eyes and saw her sister standing in front of her, holding a small wooden horse.

"Can you play with us?"

The woman let out a shuddering sigh, then smiled weakly and nodded, pushing her own fears and grief aside for the moment.

"Of course, Calli."

She could give them a moment longer, let them enjoy the peace for a few more minutes, before she'd tell them. 

She joined her siblings on the floor, playing with the toys, trying to keep the mood and the conversation light. But she knew the moment of truth was approaching quickly. After a while, she decided it was time.

"Why don't you come sit with me for a bit," she swallowed the lump in her throat. "We need to talk."

The twins exchanged curious glances but obediently followed her, before sitting down on the large bed.

Lyra took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. She reminded herself she couldn't break down now, that she had to be strong for them, to help them understand and process everything that had happened.

"You remember the attack on our polis?" Lyra began, her voice gentle.

She knew that some people, especially children tended to erase some traumatic events from their memory, unable to cope or understand what was going on. But as it turned out, it wasn't a case with her siblings.

"There was a lot of noise and fire. People were screaming," Alexander nodded, his expression turning serious.

"It was scary," Callista added, wrapping her arms around herself.

Lyra hugged them both tightly.

"I know it was. And I'm so sorry you had to go through that. Our home was attacked by demons, and everything changed very quickly," she took a shaky breath. "And our home... it was destroyed in the attack. We won't be able to go back there."

"What?" Callista's eyes filled with tears. "What about Papa? And Mama? And Theo and Maris?"

Despite death being a common event, no one bothered to explain it to them. They saw their father get killed, and yet, they still couldn't grasp the concept of what it meant. And now, she had to explain it to them.

"Papa... Papa was killed. We won't see him again."

"Like, not ever?"

"At least not until it's out time to leave this world," Lyra chocked out, blinking back tears. "You remember the stories about the Underworld? Hades' kingdom?"

"That's where Papa went?" Alex asked quietly.

They knew the stories. They didn't fully understand them, but they remembered that the Underworld was the end. All of those, who entered the Underworld stayed down there, or returned very quickly. Only beings that had a chance at getting out were children of the gods of divine beings. Something their father was not.

"Yes," Lyra replied just as quietly.

Alexander's lip trembled, and he buried his face in his sister's side. Callista's tears spilled over, and she clung to the woman's arm.

"And Mama, Theo, and Maris?" the girl asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"I don't know where they are," Lyra admitted, her heart breaking at the admission. "I hope they're safe, but I don't know for sure."

She wanted to tell them that everything would be fine - that their family is alright and alive. But she couldn't promise them that. Instead, she settled for the harsh truth, entwrwined with hope.

The twins cried, their small bodies shaking with the force of their sobs. Lyra held them close, her own tears finally falling as she comforted them.

"I promise you, we'll find out what happened to them. We'll do everything we can to be together again."

She rocked them gently, murmuring soothing words until their sobs subsided. They stayed like that for a long time, finding solace in each other's presence.

As the day turned into evening, Lyra managed to get the twins to lie down. They were exhausted, their little bodies finally giving in to sleep.

The woman herself sat by the window, looking out at the golden city of Olympus. The gods' realm was beautiful, but it felt foreign and overwhelming.

A soft knock on the door startled her. She opened it to find Heron standing there, his expression mirroring her exhaustion.

"How are they?" he asked quietly, glancing at the sleeping twins.

"They're asleep," Lyra replied, stepping aside to let him in. "We talked about... everything."

Heron nodded, his gaze softening as he looked at Alexander and Callista.

"They're strong, just like you."

"They have to be," Lyra managed a small smile.

"We'll get through this, Lyra," Heron placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Together."

She nodded, appreciating his presence. He nodded and stepped back.

"Get some rest. We'll figure out the next steps tomorrow."

Lyra watched him leave, then returned to her spot by the window. The events of the day replayed in her mind, but she felt a glimmer of hope.

They were on Olympus, surrounded by gods, and perhaps, just perhaps, they could find a way to make things right.

As she finally lay down beside her siblings, Lyra whispered a silent promise to herself. No matter what it took, she would protect Alexander and Callista.

*****

Lyra lay in bed, staring at the ornate ceiling. Despite the soft blankets and the gentle glow of the moonlight streaming through the window, sleep eluded her.

Alexander and Callista were sound asleep beside her, their small faces peaceful and innocent. Lyra's mind, however, was anything but quiet. Now, that they were asleep and she had a moment to herself, her mind finally seemed to process everything. It was slow, but she could feel the whole day catching up to her.

Just a few days ago, if someone told her all of what she went through would happen to her, she'd shrug it off and call them crazy. 

But it did happen and she finally had a chance to think it over and at least to try to figure out a way to move forward, how to reconnect all the broken pieces that were once her life. And most importantly - how to get her siblings to move on and not give up. 

She gently slipped out of bed, careful not to wake the twins, and quietly left the room.

The corridors of Olympus were silent, save for the occasional distant murmur of voices or the soft rustle of leaves in the gardens.

Lyra wandered aimlessly, hoping the cool night air and the tranquil surroundings would help clear her mind. As she walked, she spotted a stable not far off, where a familiar figure was leading horses into their stalls.

Apollo's golden hair glowed even in the moonlight, and his presence exuded a warmth that was both comforting and intimidating. He moved with grace and ease, murmuring softly to the horses as he guided them into their stalls.

Lyra hesitated for a moment before deciding to approach him.

"They're beautiful. Are they the horses you told Alex about, earlier?" she asked, breaking the silence.

Apollo looked up, surprised but pleased to see her.

"They are," he agreed, his golden eyes catching the light. "They've served me well today."

Lyra smiled and stepped closer, reaching out as if to gently stroke one of the horses' noses.

"Can I?" she asked before she touched them, and the god nodded. "I've always admired horses. There's something so noble about them."

"They are noble creatures," Apollo nodded, watching her with interest. "Strong, loyal, and dependable. Much like people, when given the chance."

Lyra chuckled softly.

"I suppose you're right."

They stood in companionable silence for a moment, the quiet of the night wrapping around them. Apollo finished securing the last horse and then turned to Lyra, his expression more serious.

"Are you alright?" he asked gently. "You seem troubled."

Lyra sighed, leaning against the stable door.

"It's been a long, emotionally exhausting day. I had to explain to my siblings that we won't be going back home, that our father is gone, and we have no idea what happened to our mother or siblings. They're so young, and it breaks my heart to see them so scared and confused."

Apollo's eyes softened with understanding.

"That must have been incredibly difficult. I can't imagine the weight you carry on your shoulders."

"I just want to protect them, to make sure they feel safe," Lyra looked down, her fingers absently tracing patterns on the wooden door. "But it's hard when everything is so uncertain."

Apollo reached out and gently lifted her chin, making her meet his gaze.

"You're doing an amazing job, Lyra. Your siblings are lucky to have you. And you don't have to bear this burden alone. There are people here who want to help, myself included."

Lyra felt a warmth spread through her at his words.

"Thank you, Apollo. It means a lot to hear that."

"You're strong, Lyra. Stronger than you realize. And whatever comes next, you have allies here who will stand by you," he smiled, the kind of smile that seemed to light up the darkness.

Lyra felt a surge of gratitude and relief. For the first time since the attack, she felt a glimmer of hope.

"Thank you," she said again, her voice steadier this time.

Apollo gave her a reassuring nod.

"Now, how about a little distraction? These horses could use a good grooming, and I could use some company."

"I'd like that," Lyra's smile widened.

Together, they spent the next while brushing and caring for the horses, talking about everything and nothing.

Apollo shared stories of his travels and adventures, and Lyra found herself laughing and relaxing in his presence.

By the time they finished, the weight on her heart felt a little lighter.

As they walked back to the main part of Olympus, Lyra glanced at Apollo and felt a deep sense of gratitude.

"Goodnight, Lyra," Apollo said softly as they reached her room.

"Goodnight, Apollo," she replied, feeling a warmth that lingered long after she returned to her bed.

For the first time in days, she felt a sense of peace as she closed her eyes and drifted into a restful sleep.

*****

Apollo walked away from Lyra's door, a faint smile lingering on his lips. The night had grown quiet, and the cool air felt refreshing against his skin.

As he turned a corner, he nearly collided with Hermes, who was moving at his usual brisk pace.

"Brother," Apollo greeted, recovering from the surprise. "Back from your mission already?"

Hermes grinned, taking off his helmet and hanging it over his back.

"Just finished," he nodded, falling in step with the older god. "And what about you, brother? Were you sneaking around for a midnight rendezvous?"

"Nothing quite so dramatic," Apollo chuckled, shaking his head. "Just making sure our guests are settling in."

"Oh, really?" his brother raised an eyebrow, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Because from where I was standing, it looked like you were just leaving Lyra's room. Should I be jealous?"

"Jealous?" the sun god laughed. "Of what, exactly?"

"Of the fact that ever since she's got there, you seem to be paying little attention to the rest of us," Hermes teased, leaning casually against the wall. "You know, for someone who's supposed to be the epitome of beauty and charm, you seem rather smitten."

"Hermes, you have the imagination of a poet," the blonde rolled his eyes, but there was a lightness to his tone. "I was simply offering her some comfort. She's been through a lot."

"Offering comfort, eh?" the younger god smirked. "Is that what we're calling it these days?"

Apollo sighed, but a smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.

"Yes, comfort. She's just had a very hard talk with her siblings, explaining everything that happened to them over last few days and she seemed... Broken, almost. I just wanted to help. Besides, it's not like you to pry into my affairs."

"Well, it's hard not to when you're the talk of Olympus," Hermes shot back playfully. "And I have to admit, I'm curious. She's quite the intriguing mortal."

"She is," Apollo agreed, his expression turning thoughtful. "Strong, resilient. More so than most."

"So, you do like her," the messenger god's grin widened.

His brother opened his mouth to retort, but Hermes held up a hand, his expression turning serious.

"In all honesty, Apollo, I think it's good that she has someone like you looking out for her. Just don't get too distracted. There's a lot happening right now."

"Of course," the sun god said, appreciating the shift in tone. "And speaking of which, what did you find out from Hera?"

Hermes' face darkened slightly.

"She's furious, as expected. She's rallying some of the gods against Father. She feels betrayed, and she's not going to let this go easily."

Apollo nodded, his playful demeanour giving way to concern. It wasn't unusual for Hera to get mad at Zeus after finding out about his affair, but it wasn't common for her to actually rally gods against him.

"That's troubling."

"I knows," Hermes replied. "I need to report back to him. But don't think this conversation is over, dear brother. We'll have to talk more about your mortal 'friend'."

"Get out of here," Apollo chuckled, shaking his head as Hermes turned to leave.

Hermes waved a hand dismissively as he walked away.

"See you around, Apollo. And remember, secrets don't stay secret for long around here."

Apollo watched his brother disappear down the corridor, a mixture of amusement and apprehension lingering in his mind.

He sighed and turned back toward his own quarters, knowing that the days ahead would be anything but easy.

*****

Heron and Lyra stood in the training ground, both facing a formidable robotic warrior designed by Hephaestus. The automaton's eyes glowed with a relentless intensity, ready to engage them in combat.

The man wielded a sword, his stance aggressive, while the woman held a shorter blade, clearly more comfortable with ranged weapons. Her moves were much clumsier than usually.

Zeus stood to the side, observing their every move. His eyes were sharp, taking in every mistake, every misstep.

He knew they needed this training to stand a chance against the mythical beings they would face, but he also saw their frustration and anger clouding their judgment.

"Focus, Heron!" Zeus barked as Heron lunged at the robot with reckless abandon, leaving himself exposed.

The automaton easily deflected his attack and knocked him back, sending him sprawling to the ground.

Lyra, meanwhile, was trying to find an opening, but her movements were jerky and uncoordinated. She swung at the robot, but it dodged effortlessly and countered with a powerful strike that she barely managed to dodge.

Apollo and Artemis watched from a balcony above, concern etched on their faces. Hephaestus stood beside them, arms crossed as he observed the training session.

"This isn't working," Artemis said, shaking her head. "They're too emotional, too reckless."

"They need to calm down," Apollo agreed. "They can't fight like this."

Down below, Zeus deflected a blow from the robot, which was