literature

Mythologies - Episode 5

Deviation Actions

HewyToonmore's avatar
By
Published:
8.1K Views

Literature Text

Offerings - Part 2

*Deep within the harpies' lair, the harpies now slumbered silently and quietly from their rowdy celebration - all in preparation for tomorrow. They laid soundly upon the stony floor as if it were a soft field of grass and slept there… All except Antagony, who stared out the mouth of the cave at the village of Hydres far away. However, her moment of peace was soon ended by the sound of the flapping of wings, followed by a soft thud as Laimargia landed next to her*

Laimargia: Drachma for your thoughts, boss? *chomps down on a piece of meat in her talon* You seem…tense.

Antagony: *rolls her eyes* Must you slobber like that?

Laimargia: *shrugs, wipes her mouth with her wing* What? I'm hungry.

Antagony: *sighs* Living up to your name, aren’t you, Laimargía?

*At those words, Laimargia merely brushed off the comment and took one final bite of her meat, before casually tossing the remains outside the cave and over the edge of the cliff face, letting it drop to the ground far below as she let out a casual belch. Pretending not to be disgusted by her subordinates' display, Antagony returned to gazing out into the night sky*

Antagony: What do you want?

Laimargía: Only to express my deepest of graces to you, Antagony, and to voice my…concerns.

Antagony: *raises an eyebrow and cocks her head towards her subordinate slightly* Concerns?

*Sensing the hostility radiating from her leader, Laimargía made sure to make herself quick to the point*

Laimargía: Well… It's about Priscilla.

Antagony: *scoffs* What about her?

Laimargía: Well, are you sure we should keep her around? After all, with so many other loyal harpies at your command…

Antagony: No other harpy in my flock can fly as fast as she can. True, she is a little…reluctant in our line of work, but she has proven useful, nonetheless.

Laimargía: That may be so, but I highly doubt she can be trusted completely. Forgive my defiance, boss, but given her connection to the previous leader of the flock…

Antagony: ENOUGH!

*Her voice echoed throughout the cave, stirring a few of the harpies, but not enough to wake them*

Antagony: I will hear no more of this. This is MY flock. Aside from Priscilla, every trace of the old flock has been eradicated, I made sure of that!

Laimargia: Which is all the more reason why we can't trust the little runt!

*Growing more angry with Laimargia’s insubordination, Antagony bared her teeth at her with a fierce glare in her eyes*

Antagony: Wake her.

Laimargia: *confused* Pardon?

Antagony: I said wake her! Let her prove that she belongs.

*Not wanting to push her leader's anger any further, Laimargia gulped and took off further into the cave to fulfill Antagony's request. Soon enough, she eventually found the certain red shade of feathers she was looking for*

Laimargia: *kicks Priscilla in the back to wake her* GET UP!!!

*Yelping in pain from the sharp kick, Priscilla awoke with a start, staring back up at the overweight harpy standing over her*

Priscilla: *groggily* Wha... what's going on?

Laimargia: Captain wants to see you, now I said UP!

*At those words, Priscilla quickly scrabbled to her feet and followed the fat bird over towards where Antagony waited for them at the cave entrance*

Priscilla: You wanted to see me, Ma'am?

Antagony: *looks at her sternly* Yes, I know that it is quite late so I'll make this quick, I need you to do a little favor for me.

Priscilla: *raises an eyebrow* A favor?

Antagony: Of course, Priscilla, I am having some… thoughts about the townsfolk, I need to know how many are actually going to attempt to gather our new quota or to a more stupid turn, decide to flee, to put it simply…

Priscilla: …You want me to scout ahead?

Antagony: *snarls* DON'T interrupt me!

Priscilla: *shrinks back* Sorry.

Antagony: But yes, that is exactly what I want you to do, go to the town, take a little scan of the area, and report back to me as soon as possible. *waits in silence for a brief moment before speaking again* Well? What Are you waiting for? GO!!!

*Yelping in fear at Antagony's roar, Priscilla instantly jumped from the cave entrance and took to the skies, the sight of her shrinking ever more as she flew further away from Antagony's presence. Then, mere moments after she had left, Antagony once again turned to Laimargia*

Antagony: *glares* If she does not return within two hours, you are to follow her, see what she does when she's alone, then we shall truly see where her loyalties lie.

*Meanwhile, unbeknownst to Antagony or the rest of her flock, the harpy she was looking for had already taken off into the night sky, circling over one of the darkened streets of Hydres before making a quiet landing on one of the rooftops*

Priscilla: Doesn't seem like anyone's out tonight. *scratches her chin in thought* One would think there'd be a little more panic in the air.

*As confusing as the situation was, Priscilla's focus returned in seconds and she quickly began scanning the area, after which she then glided from roof to roof, making sure to be as stealthy as possible as to avoid anyone who may spot her from below*

*A few streets away, towards the center of town, which was lit up by several small torches, Darius, Bel, Leon, and Andrea were aiding with the construction of Leon's catapult design*

Villager 1: *carrying a medium-sized box of scrap metal* Where do you want these?

Leon: Just set them over there by the bucket. *points to the catapult bucket laying on the ground*

*Upon his instruction, the villager then nodded and walked away, leaving Leon alone with the blacksmith to look over the scrolls displaying his blueprints*

Blacksmith: Have to say, this contraption of yours seems to be shaping up quite well.

Leon: I just hope it'll be ready in time, we never could have made so much progress already without everyone's help.

Blacksmith: Happy to be of assistance, my boy. Anything to rid ourselves of Antagony and her flock once and for all.

Leon: *smiles* Well I'm glad to see that there's some confidence left in this place.

Blacksmith: So where are those friends of yours anyway? Haven't seen them for quite some time.

*This was indeed true, though everyone was helping out at first, it had been a while since the blacksmith was able to leave the forge long enough to see everyone's progress. Luckily enough, Leon had an answer to his queries*

Leon: Andrea is taking a small break and Darius left to find that girl's house.

Blacksmith: *raises an eyebrow* What girl?

Leon: Oh you know, that kid those harpies were scaring earlier today? I think Darius just wanted to make sure she was okay.

Blacksmith: Ah, I see. Poor girl, losing her doll like that.

Leon: You know her?

Blacksmith: It's not that big of a town, son. Everyone knows everyone here. But don't worry, she's young, but she'll be okay. Still, it is nice of Darius to check on her. He was heading to her house, you say?

Leon: Yeah, she and her mom couldn't help out here so they went home the night… let's just hope Darius can find the place.

*Meanwhile, in a different part of town, a certain someone was proving Leon wrong by making yet another wrong turn*

Bel: RAWK! Lost again!

Darius: *groans* Would you please stop saying that!?! *mutters* It's not my fault these streets all look the same at night.

Bel: Blind as a bat. RAWK!

Darius: Not helping, Bel!

*Suddenly, a faint sound reaches Darius' ears, like a small gust of wind blowing through a small gap, barely audible to anyone else but enough to make Blue turn his head whilst in the otherwise quiet streets*

Darius: Did you hear that? *quickly places a hand on the hilt of his sword*

*However, no matter how much he listened, the sound never returned. Soon enough, Darius let out a small breath that he didn't even realize that he'd been holding*

Darius: Must have been my imagination, lousy harpies must have put me on edge.

Bel: *nods his head in agreement*

*Of course, had Darius turned his head upward upon hearing what he did he would've seen Priscilla gliding over him and Bel, making sure she didn't flap her wings too much as to avoid making any more noise than needed*

Priscilla: It should be somewhere… there you are!

*It was then that Priscilla's gaze fixated on a certain building only two houses down from the rooftop she had landed on, one that had a thick red candle flickering in the darkness as it sat upon the base of its ground floor window. Eyeing the small flicker of light like a hawk fixating its gaze on a small mouse, Priscilla then leaped off the roof and with a loud thud, landed on the street below, yet another sound that Darius managed to pick up just a few street corners away*

Darius: Okay, now THAT I heard.

Bel: RAWK! Trouble brewing?

Darius: Ssh! *slowly draws his sword*

*There was no question that Darius' paranoia may very well be spot on, for this time the noise was loud enough for him to pick a direction to go. A quickened pace and a few turns later, he was ready to fight off whatever he came across*

Darius: Alright, who's out there!?

*But alas, no response came*

Bel: Rrrr…

Darius: You see something, Bel?

*Just then a flicker of light managed to catch his eye, turning his head he saw a small window lit up by candlelight. However, it wasn't the light itself that was the center of Darius' attention… but rather the large, grotesque shadow that was cast on the wall behind it*

Bel: RAWK!!! HARPY, HARPY!!! CALL THE GUARD!!!

Darius: No time for that!!!

*Then in a flash of adrenaline and rage, Darius instantly dashed to the front door of the house in question, almost brushing Bel off his shoulder as he angrily kicked it open*

Darius: All right, where are… Omph! *gets knocked aside, into a nearby wall by a large object adorned with red feathers*

*Though dazed for a brief moment, Darius was quickly able to regain his composure long enough to see, none other than Priscilla standing over him, her amber eyes glaring at him intently. While he may have been speechless for a short time, Darius' mind quickly began to formulate a plan to get out of his situation, with one quick swipe of his leg beneath Priscilla's own, it was then the harpy who ended up on the floor, soon enough with the tip of Darius' blade edging closer towards her neck*

Darius: Looks like the tables have turned, eh Birdbrain? *chuckles slightly*

??? NO!!!

Darius: *turns his head in confusion* Huh?

*It was then that someone else had entered the conflict, the little girl that had her doll ripped apart by Antagony, further confusing Blue even further by running up to Priscilla, dropping to her knees and hugging her tightly*

Little Girl: Leave her alone!

Darius: Uh… Excuse me?

Little Girl: I said leave my friend alone, you big bully!

*To say that Darius was confused would have been an understatement at this point in time, why would a little girl protect and call a HARPY her friend?*

Bel: RAWK! What is going on here!?!

???: Well for starters, you two have just ruined my front door.

*Darius turned to see the girl's mother, a fair-looking woman with dark hair, and teal eyes, and wore a standard cloth attire one would normally see in an everyday housewife. Of course, what Darius hadn't expected was a stern glare from the woman aiming in HIS direction*

Girl’s Mother: I hope you have the means to pay for that, young man.

Darius: *flabbergasted* I'm sorry, but can you not see the big, ugly, feathered monster sprawled out across your floor right now? I think a little damage to the door is the least of your worries!

Priscilla: Hey, no need to get personal, buddy!

Little Girl: She's not ugly! She's beautiful!

*It was then an awkward silence fell upon the room, one that brought further confusion to Darius’ mind*

Darius: Okay, can someone PLEASE tell me what I'm missing here!?!

Priscilla: *sighs* If you'll let me up, I'll explain everything.

Darius: And what makes you think I'm stupid enough to trust you with such a claim?

Girl’s Mother: Because you'll have MY word for it, and I say to you that THIS particular harpy is harmless.

*There was no denying that Darius was hesitant to let the harpy at his mercy back to her feet, still if there was any chance to get some answers then he should at least hear her out. Finally, though quite reluctantly, he finally removed his blade from Priscilla's neck and sheathed it, allowing the harpy to stand*

Darius: *to Bel* Bel, go find Leon and Andrea and bring them here, okay?

Bel: RAWK! Right-o!

*And just like that, Bel flapped his colorful wings and took off through the now-damaged door*

*A short time later, a fair few minutes after Bel had completed his task, Darius, Leon, and Andrea were sitting at the table as the little girl gave Priscilla a cup of water to drink*

Priscilla: *nods* Thank you, Agatha.

Agatha: You're welcome.

Leon: So, let me get this straight. Antagony sent you to spy on us, but you say that you have no intention of telling her anything useful and that you and this family are…friends? Am I missing anything here?

Priscilla: Well, first off, not ALL harpies are like Antagony, just like how not ALL centaurs are wild, drunken brutes.

Andrea: *annoyed* I'm an EQUITAUR!

Priscilla: Doth mine Greek offend you, sister? The point is, not all monsters are evil, just like not all humans are good.

Leon: *awkwardly* Well, can't really say that I can argue with that logic.

*However, while Andrea nodded her head in agreement, Darius' eyes narrowed*

Darius: Well if you're NOT a monster, then explain to me what you’re doing hanging out with a bunch of harpies who clearly ARE.

*At those words, Priscilla couldn't help but look away in shame*

Priscilla: It's… complicated.

Darius: Try us.

Priscilla: *pause* When my mother was our leader, our flock lived peacefully on our cliffs. Those mountains were our home long before this village existed. When the humans moved in, many of our sisters felt we should attack and drive them away, but my mother would hear none of it. We left the humans alone and they left us in peace.

Andrea: *pause* So… what happened?

Priscilla: *grits her teeth in anger* Antagony happened. One day, she flew into our nest, having once been a rogue harpy that fed off scraps and the carcasses of dead animals, like a vulture. At first, she seemed harmless enough, all skin and bones, just looking for something to eat, but the longer she stayed with the flock, the more we began to see her true nature.

Leon: *raises an eyebrow* What do you mean?

Priscilla: At first it was nothing, a few spats here and there amongst the other members of the flock, but then once her strength was built up, she took out her fury on my mother. One night, she challenged her for the right to lead, normally such a challenge would result in the former leader stepping down, or in the worst case, banishment, but…

Leon: … but Antagony took things too far.

Priscilla: *nods* My mother fought bravely, she did everything she could, she even managed to claw out Antagony’s right eye the during the challenge. But still, it wasn't enough. Eventually, Antagony managed to pin my mother and win the match… it should have ended there. Instead… Antagony ripped out her throat with her teeth!

*At those words, Priscilla instantly broke down in tears, her sobs ringing in everyone's ears like lyre strings as Agatha quickly rushed towards the harpy to embrace her*

Andrea: *looks away in shame* Oh, jeez, I… I'm so sorry.

Leon: That must have been horrible.

Priscilla: *wipes the tears from her eye with a claw* It was… Soon after, she began killing more and more of the original flock, some through challenges and others simply because they ticked her off. And now I'm the only one left, everyone else is solely loyal to Antagony.

Darius: But why did she keep you alive? I mean, your mother was the original leader, so doesn't she see you as a threat?

Priscilla: *shrugs* I suppose she doesn't see it that way, to her I'm just a helpless chick and the one living reminder of her victory over the flock. Once she had enough followers she began leading us into a life of thieving, taking advantage of towns surrounding the area and robbing them of their valuables. Some protested this idea but Antagony killed them for insubordination.

Leon: Not surprising… When Darius here tried to fight her, she beat him like a sack of flour.

Darius: *annoyed* Hey!

Priscilla: Yes, I heard… Which is why I want to thank you for killing Mariah. She wasn't the nicest of harpies even by Antagony's standards… let’s just say she liked to play with her food before she ate it.

Andrea: *feels chills down her spine* Hnngh… I don't even want to picture something like that.

Darius: So if all what you're saying is true, then why come to this town by yourself? And how do you even know this family?

Priscilla: Well… I suppose that all started about three years ago, some of my kin and I were flying overhead when all of a sudden, an arrow shot up through the forest and struck me in the wing. I suppose some idol hunter thought we were some big birds or something. Anyway, after that, the others were scattered and I ended up losing control and ended up taking a swan dive towards this village. I'm not sure what happened after that but I think I crashed into one of the buildings or something. Anyway, when I woke up I was in an alley with a damaged wing… And without my wing, I couldn't exactly do much.

Bel: RAWK! Clip the wing, bird no fly!

Darius: BEL!!!

Priscilla: Needless to say, no human would help me, either because of fear or just plain hatred… but then I met Galena here. *gestures to the mother*

Galena: Poor thing collapsed right outside our back door, trying to catch and eat a rat.

Priscilla: It was the only thing I could get at the time.

Galena: Everyone else may have seen this young lady as a monster, but when I saw her in such pain, I couldn't just leave her out there, so I took her inside and had my husband patch her up as best as he could.

Priscilla: Galena was one of the most generous people I could have met and she and Agatha became dear friends to me. Once I was healed, I made frequent visits to this family from time to time… in secret, of course.

Galena: But then Antagony showed up.

Priscilla: And when she started extorting the villagers, my visits became more and more frequent.

Andrea: *nods in understanding* You wanted to make sure this family was okay.

Leon: But wouldn't that be such a huge risk? Wouldn't Antagony be watching you?

Priscilla: Believe me, it's worth the risk. Nowadays, Galena and Agatha are the only two good things I have left in my life. Besides, over time I've learned how to slip past Antagony and her followers, they're not exactly the brightest bunch.

Darius: Well, you don’t need to worry about Antagony and her cronies anymore. We’ve got something planned for her and the others tomorrow.

Priscilla: *raises an eyebrow* You do?

Leon: *nudges Darius and whispers into his ear* You sure you want to tell her that? What if she's lying?

Darius: I highly doubt that this family is willing to go to such lengths to stop us from attacking her, Leon. I think we can trust her.

Leon: *sighs* Alright, I'll go along, but you better be right about this.

*The trio then turns back towards Priscilla who stared back at them with a curious look on her face*

Darius: So, here's what we have in mind…

*Meanwhile, Antagony continued to pace around through the caverns of the Harpies' lair with an agitated look across her face. So much so, that one would think that she would wear a dent right into the stone. Suddenly, the sound of flapping wings reached her ears as the overweight Laimargia landed on the boulder next to her*

Antagony: *sternly* Well?

Laimargia: *growls with a smirk on her face* The two hours are up, boss, and Priscilla has yet to return.

Antagony: *grits her teeth in anger* Very well, get ready to fly, Laimargia, looks you'll be… *stops mid-sentence when another flapping sound reaches her ears* … actually, hold that thought.

*Just then, Priscilla came flying back into the lair, landing in front of Antagony and bowing before her, the dark harpy glaring down at her*

Antagony: Well… it's about time, I was just about to send out a search party.

*Laimargia snarls at that, agitated about Priscilla's timely return, moments later the red-feathered harpy rose to her feet*

Priscilla: Forgive my tardiness, Ma'am, I had to make sure I wasn't spotted.

Antagony: *raises an eyebrow* By whom, as far as I know, most humans would be still sleeping, if not cowering in their homes around this time of night. What news do you bring me from the town, Priscilla?

Laimargia: Yeah, did they make double their quota like they're supposed to?

Priscilla: *gulps* I'm afraid that the news I bring isn't very good, Ma'am.

Antagony: *glares* Explain.

Priscilla: It's that boy, the one who… killed Mariah.

Antagony: What about him?

Priscilla: He's somehow managed to rally the townsfolk against us, Ma'am, they're readying themselves for a fight even as we speak.

*Hearing this, Antagony growled. However, moments later this changed into a small chuckle*

Antagony: Oh really? And just HOW are they expecting to take on our flock? Surely they must realize how weak they are compared to our might.

Priscilla: They're building something, a large contraption capable of shooting something large at us, a catapult from what I can gather. And I also saw some more humans in the forge making some kind of metal net, I believe that is what they intend on using.

Antagony: *smiles sinisterly* Is that so? So the humans believe that they can defeat us with something as trivial as a catapult and a net. I must say they are an amusing race at times, wouldn't you agree, Laimargia?

Laimargia *chuckles* Truly.

Antagony: And where exactly are they planning on building this contraption? Somewhere close-by?

Priscilla: They seemed to be carrying materials a few yards outside the front entrance to the village, I believe they hope to use the vegetation to hide its presence.

Antagony: *scratches her chin in thought* Smack dab where we would go if we were to use our usual flight route, not bad, if not foolish. Laimargia!

Laimargia: *stands at attention* Yeah, Captain?

Antagony: Make sure to inform the rest of the flock that we shall be altering our course tomorrow morning, while the humans expect us to come from the front, we shall instead circle before getting close and attack from the rear.

Laimargia: *smirks* I like the way you think.

Antagony: That's why I'm the leader.

*Upon saying that, Antagony returned her gaze towards Priscilla, who couldn't help but gulp*

Antagony: You have done well, Priscilla. Now return to the sleeping chamber, we will all need our rest for when the morn comes.

Priscilla: *nods her head in respect* Ye… yes, Ma'am.

*After that, Priscilla quickly turned away and proceeded to walk further into the caverns, leaving Antagony and Laimargia alone*

Antagony: *smirks in Laimargia’s direction* Still believe she can't be trusted?

*The next morning, the people of Hydres frantically piled up anything they could get their hands on in the village square. Meanwhile, Darius, Leon, Andrea, and the blacksmith were putting the finishing touches on the catapult, making sure it couldn't be seen until it was too late*

Darius: Are we all set?

Leon: All good to go on the mechanics, and the net's loaded up. I just hope everything goes as smoothly as we hope.

Darius: *smiles and puts a reassuring hand on Leon's shoulder* I'm sure it will, bud.

Andrea: *skeptically* And if it doesn't? If things take a turn for the worse, what then?

Blacksmith: If it comes to it, at least we can all go to the afterlife knowing that we did what we could.

Leon: *mutters* That's not exactly reassuring.

Blacksmith: Oh and speaking of which, Leon, I got something for ya…

Leon: Oh? What's that?

*At first the blacksmith didn't answer him, rather he kneeled and got something that was packed amongst his box of tools, a long item covered in brown leather, which he handed to Leon*

Blacksmith: I may have...stretched the truth when I said your friend's sword was the only blade of its kind I had ever fashioned. For you see, there was enough of the ore leftover… to make a twin.

*Unwrapping the leather, Leon's eyes widened as he saw a sword quite similar to Blue's with a few obvious differences, most notably while Darius' was bronze, this one looked as though it were made of silver. Needless to say, it was quite the masterpiece*

Leon: A twin sword? But… it can’t be. Darius' sword is bronze, this is silver!

Blacksmith: True, but keep in mind that this is celestial ore, I may have used different methods to make it but it still carries the same properties as the older twin, just as strong, just as magical. Trust me, you will find no better blade than this.

Leon: I… don't know what to say.

Blacksmith: No need to say anything, trust me, you deserve to have this.

*Taking another look at the silver blade in his hands, Leon couldn't help but smile, with such a treasure of a weapon in his possession, one that matches that of his friend at that, the young inventor's confidence practically skyrocketed. Suddenly he was snapped out of his trance by the sound of a loud, ear-piercing screech on the wind, followed by the sound of a signal horn that echoed throughout all of Hydres*

Andrea: Sounds like our guests have arrived. Are you sure this plan is going to work?

Darius: *nods optimistically* As long as everyone plays their part, I'm sure it will.

Blacksmith: Then we best get to work! Hurry!

*Meanwhile the people of Hydres, those who were not part of the plan at least, remained hidden in their homes, waiting for the Harpies' inevitable return. Before they knew it they heard the numerous thuds echoing above them as several of the winged beasts landed on the roofs while others came down towards the deserted streets, with Antagony at the front of the flock. Scanning the area, Antagony couldn't help but smirk*

Antagony: Seems like our hosts are too shy to come out and play. *sneers* BRING THEM OUT!!!

*At that high-pitched screech every one of Antagony's flock instantly began flapping into a frenzy and started breaking their way into everyone's home, soon enough the entire area was filled with the terrified screams of humans, men, women, and children alike, some in terror, others in pain as some harpies slashed their talons at those who resisted, not deep enough to kill them but serious enough to scar. Before long almost every human, including Galena and Agatha was forced to their knees before Antagony, who looked back at them with an amused glare*

Antagony: I must say I'm quite disappointed, I give you all a chance to redeem you're terrible mistake and in return, you attempt to spite me further by trusting your lives to a stupid boy.

*Hearing this from their hiding place, Leon and Andrea looked towards Darius, who in turn scowled with a huff*

Antagony: And where exactly ARE the boy and his pathetic little friends? Heh! Did we scare them off? *chuckles*

Priscilla: *points* They're hiding in that building over there. I saw a glimpse of the Equitaur when we flew in.

Laimargia: Not surprising given how large that rump is, eh? *chuckles*

Andrea: *off-screen* Oh, YOU'RE one to talk!

Antagony: *turning her head towards the source of the voice* Come on out, little ones! Come join the party why don't you? *glares* Oh, do I need to have you dragged out?

*After a moment of silence, Antagony then nodded towards some of her harpies, completely understanding what their leader wanted, the harpies instantly ran towards the nearby bakery and smashed their way in through both the door and the front window. After hearing the sounds of a struggle from inside, the townspeople couldn't help but grimace as they imagined what was going on inside. Finally, someone emerged out of the building, namely the Antagony's followers as they carried Darius and Leon and tossed them to the ground, all the while Andrea was being dragged through the door by at least three harpies as she tried in vain to buck them off*

Andrea: *grunting in pain as the harpies pulled at her hair* AGGHH!!! You stupid birds, get your filthy claws off of me!

*Soon enough, all three were brought outside, and upon seeing their faces, Antagony smirked again*

Antagony: *mockingly* There, was that so hard?

*Snarling at that remark, Darius quickly shifted his gaze from Antagony to Priscilla, who only stared back at him with a stoic look on her face*

Darius: *glares* YOU! You lying sack of feathers, you sold us out!

Priscilla: *sighs* Did you really expect anything less?

Andrea: So all that you said last night was a load of dung, huh? I shouldn't really be surprised since it came from someone like YOU.

Galena: Priscilla, how could you? After everything we've done for you, how could you betray us like this!?!

Antagony: *turns her head towards Priscilla with a raised eyebrow and a sly grin* Ah… I see how it is, gaining the humans' trust, feigning innocence, and then just when they give you everything you need, you grind them into the dirt. I have to say I am impressed, Priscilla. Good work.

Priscilla: *looks away in shame* Please… don't mention it.

Agatha: I… I thought you were my friend.

Priscilla: *averts her gaze from the girl* I'm sorry… But this is how it has to be, Antagony is my leader… and I MUST obey.

Antagony: *chuckles* Well said, Priscilla.

Agatha: *starts to cry* I hate you! I hate you!

Molting Harpy: Oh look, she’s crying again, and we didn’t even have to rip apart another toy! *squawking cackle*

*This in turn resulted in a series of cackles from the other harpies, the mere look of despair etched across the human's faces being a big source of delight for them. Only after a few moments of laughter did Antagony finally raise her wing to silence them*

Antagony: As much I would love to drag this out even further, I'm afraid that we need to do what we came here for… *turns her gaze towards Darius* Starting with THIS one.

Laimargia: Yes, kill him!

Skinny Harpy: Kill the boy who killed Mariah!!

Molting Harpy: Tear out his guts!!

*It was then that Antagony slowly stepped towards Blue, her teeth bared, ready to tear out the poor human's throat, the closer she got the more she could see fearful sweat dripping down his brow*

Antagony: You have no idea how much I am going to enjoy this, boy. *turns to the other harpies* When I'm done, you, Priscilla, may have the honor of eating this little interloper's flippant tongue!

Priscilla: *nods* Yes, Ma’am. But… might I make a suggestion?

Antagony: *stops in her step and turns to Priscilla with a raised eyebrow* Oh? And what would that be?

Priscilla: Well, I was thinking-- *shouts* NOW!!!!

*Upon then high-pitched scream, came the sound of mechanical gears and pulleys as something was shot out of nowhere and an unexpected turn of events had occurred. Before Antagony could even blink, Priscilla had suddenly launched herself into the black-feathered harpy's torso, temporarily winding her just long enough to lift her off her talons and tackle her into the street*

*Meanwhile, much to the surprise of their captors, Darius, Leon, and Andrea each managed to take advantage of the distraction to break free from each of their grasp, allowing Andrea to use her hind legs to buck a couple of the harpies away from them just long enough for the three to dive out of the way before a large metal projectile was shot in their direction. Before any of them knew it the iron net hit its mark, pinning at least 3 harpies to the ground with a painful thud*

Laimargia: RAWK!!! WHAT IS THIS?!!?

Skinny Harpy: NGHHH!!! What do you think it is, moron!?! It's a friggin’ net!!

Molting Harpy: WE'VE BEEN DUPED!!!

Andrea: Wahoo, it worked! We got 'em!!

Agatha: Yay! Hooray!!

Galena: Oh, thank Hera.

Leon: *sighs in relief* Agreed. Though I think we cut it a little too close for comfort.

Darius: *chuckles* Tell that to our trigger man up there.

*At those words, Leon and Darius looked up towards one of the tallest buildings on the street, from first glance it looked pretty normal, but once the trap was sprung, the makeshift camouflage tarp was pulled away, revealing the catapult and the blacksmith, who in turn waved at them with a large grin plastered across his face*

Darius: *waves up at the blacksmith, to Leon* Great work on the trap, by the way.

Leon: Thanks, *smirks* I do take pride in my painted canvases.

*Of course, there was one individual in particular that had the complete opposite reaction to the sudden capture of her followers, along with the fact that she was still pinned under Priscilla's talons after her sudden tackle. Needless to say, Antagony's fury was visibly reaching boiling point as she snarled viciously in Priscilla's face*

Antagony: *growls* Priscilla… You said the catapult was--

Priscilla: On the outskirts of town? Yeah, I may have lied about that.

Antagony: What?!

Darius: *smirks* Quite the actress, isn't she? Had you fooled completely?

Leon: You see, Antagony, Priscilla here told us everything you've ever done to both her and the original flock, so we felt she deserved a chance to seek out a little justice.

Darius: And needless to say, she was more than willing to help us out in our attempts to bring you down. With a few fake recon details, along with some good acting she managed to pick up over the years under your rule, she made sure you took the bait like a fish to a worm.

Antagony: So… all this time, you WERE conspiring against me?

Laimargia: *continues to struggle in the net* I TOLD YOU!!!

Antagony: *struggling underneath Priscilla's weight, growling* You little TRAITOR!!!!

Priscilla: NO!!! YOU'RE the traitor!! Ever since you wormed your way into my flock, you've been nothing but a disease that has destroyed everything around it! My friends! MY MOTHER! Everything I ever cared about! Destroyed! Because of YOU!!!

*As Antagony continued to struggle to break free from Priscilla's grasp, she could easily see the tears of fury and hate seeping from her eyes, undoubtedly the built-up emotion she had kept hidden away for so long. However much to everyone's surprise, Antagony merely laughed*

Antagony: *glares fiercely in Priscilla's direction* And what is it you intend to do about it, hmm? You can't kill me, you neither have the strength nor the guts to do it!

Priscilla: You're right… I'm not going to kill you.

*Suddenly, much to Antagony's surprise, Priscilla loosened her grip on her and stepped back, allowing the black-feathered harpy to rise to her feet*

Priscilla: I challenge you to mid-air combat! The victor shall be the leader of the flock.

Antagony: *glares suspiciously* And the loser?

Priscilla: *glares back* Banishment. They are to leave this area, they are to leave this CONTINENT, and never return. Do you accept?

*At first Antagony said nothing, she merely continued to glare with intense fury at Pricilla, along with the humans she had allied herself with, finally she let out a heavy sigh and spoke*

Antagony: I suppose I could use an appetizer before the main course. *smirks* Try not to choke, as your mommy did.

Priscilla: *growls with hatred towards Antagony*

Darius: Are you really sure about this, Priscilla? I mean… what if she kills you?

Priscilla: I have to do this, Darius… There's no other way when it comes to her. My mother’s soul, and the souls of every flock member Antagony has killed, must be avenged.

Andrea: *sighs* As much as I dislike it, I'm afraid Priscilla's right, we have to respect her decision.

*At those words, no other words were spoken. In all honesty, there was nothing that could be said that could change what was happening now. With one final nod towards her friends, Priscilla took off into the air, quickly followed by Antagony, who kept her gaze fixed upon the harpy she intended to bring to her knees for her betrayal. Watching all of this from below, Blue, Leon, and Andrea, along with all the town citizens, including Andrea and Galena, could only stand and feel the amount of suspense building up in the air. Of course, Antagony's imprisoned followers also looked up into the air to watch the battle take place*

Priscilla: You're going to pay for turning my clan into a band of cutthroats and thieves, Antagony!

Antagony: You always were a runt, Priscilla… And you always will be!

*Antagony made her move, folding her wings and diving at Priscilla, who quickly moved and intercepted the strike with her talons. The two harpies then began to beat at each other with their wings and snapped at each other's exposed necks with their sharp fangs*

Antagony: Where have I seen this before? Oh, yes. I remember. When I KILLED your last weakling leader!

*At those words, Priscilla's anger rose ten-fold and she in turn lashed out even more furiously than before*

Priscilla: You aren't fit to MENTION my mother, you sick freak! *strikes and sinks her fangs into Antagony's neck, drawing blood*

Antagony: *in pain* AAAAHHHH!!!!

*Watching all of this from below, the fear in everyone else's minds intensified even as they watched Priscilla gain the upper hand. What didn't help was the fact that the other harpies didn't seem all that reluctant to cheer on their leader even while pinned down by the net*

Laimargia: KILL HER, ANTAGONY!!!

Andrea: Oh, do shut up! *delivers a quick buck to Laimargia's side, instantly winding her*

*But all cruel cheers aside, everyone else continued to hop for Priscilla's victory. Slash after slash, kick after kick, bite after bite, each fighter attempting to go for the other's weak spot, it was nothing short of an endless display of brutality. Before long, both harpies were covered in bloody scrapes and gashes from each other's talons, each of them physically getting exhausted from the fight*

Antagony: *breathes heavily* I… *pant* must admit… *pant* You're tougher than I thought.

Priscilla: *snarls* I don't need praise from filth like you!

Antagony: Then why don't we END THIS!?!

*With that final word, Antagony swooped directly into Priscilla's torso before suddenly latching her talons onto hers, before anyone else could blink the black-feathered harpy began to spin Priscilla in the air, whirling both their bodies as they both quickly began to plummet towards the ground. Upon witnessing this, Darius and the others couldn't help but gasp fearfully*

Andrea: OH NO!!!

Agatha: PRISCILLA!!!

Darius: PULL UP, PULL UP!!!

*As the ground drew closer and closer, Antagony couldn't help but smile gleefully as she felt her victory getting closer and closer with each yard both harpies fell, however as soon as she returned her gaze towards Priscilla, she was surprised to see not fear in the young harpies eyes, but rather a composed look of determination*

Antagony: *confusingly* What are you…?

*But before Antagony could finish her sentence, she quickly felt Priscilla's talons tighten around her own, before she knew it the red-feathered harpy had taken control over the whirligig she had created, now both harpies had the advantage, now the big question was this... who was going to let go first? They were only a few yards away from the ground now and if neither harpy released the other soon, this challenge would have ended with both combatants falling to their doom. To everything watching from the ground, it had to have been one of the most intense moments of their lives, no one being able to anticipate the outcome of the free-fall, with both harpies holding on until… Antagony was finally flung away from the whirl and Priscilla was able to pull up before she hit the ground. Of course, Antagony was not so lucky. After breaking off from the whirl, she continued to plummet until finally colliding with the ground, skidding across the street before slamming straight into a shop wall, breaking off several pieces of stone in the process and leaving everyone gasping in shock and awe*

Leon: YES!!!

Darius: *winces* OOH!!! OUCH!!!

Bel: RAWK!! That's gotta hurt!!

*Indeed it did, with that final assault Antagony's body was now in pure agony, her strength wavered greatly as she struggled in vain to get back on her feet. To both her shock and everyone else's delight, it was clear who had won the challenge*

Priscilla: *lands in front of her* It's over, Antagony. Step down.

Antagony: *coughs up a little blood* I… I can't accept this! I WILL NOT!!!

Priscilla: *coldly* You have no choice. The challenge is over… and as the victor and new leader of the flock, I hereby banish you forever more! Now get out of my sight, and out of everyone's lives!

*And just like that, Priscilla turned her back on the defeated harpy, a small smile etching its way on her face as fresh tears of relief began to run down her cheek. However as it turned out, despite her victory, Priscilla had made a grave error in turning away from the dangerous creature*

Antagony: *snarls fiercely as she bares her teeth* You… you filthy human lover… NO ONE IS TAKING THIS FLOCK FROM ME!!!

*Then with one final burst of strength, Antagony ignored whatever pain she felt and launched herself towards Priscilla, her teeth bared and ready to tear out the poor harpies throat. However just like she didn't expect Priscilla to win with the whirl, another event occurred that Antagony couldn't predict, mere inches from her target, Antagony soon found herself screaming in agony as a silver blade swung out of nowhere, severing her left foot clean off and forcing her back into the dirt*

Antagony: *in pain* AAAAHHHH!!!! MY FOOT!!!

*Needless to say the sudden attempted attack on her gave Priscilla quite the shock, though she believed that she should have expected such a thing, but the even bigger surprise to both her and Antagony was the fact that a lone human now stood between the two of them with a silver sword in his hand, dirtied with Antagony's dark blood. That human… was Leon*

Leon: *breathing heavily* Whoa… I can't believe I just DID that.

Darius: *eyes widen* Neither can I…

Leon: *to Antagony* Well, at least now you have something to match that missing eye of yours, huh?

*Antagony only snarled at that for there were no more words she could say that she hadn't already, though in all honesty she probably just refused to dignify her defeat with a response, not that was anything to dignify given her newfound condition*

Priscilla: *glares furiously at Antagony* Seriously? Even after everything, you STILL can't accept something that doesn't go your way, so much so that you would rather try to kill me than leave with the slightest bit of dignity? I don't know whether to let these people kill you or just pity you.

Antagony: I'd rather BLEED to death right here than accept any of your pity, you little runt!

Andrea: *mutters with a roll of her eyes* Sweet Gods above, this harpy is too stubborn for her own good.

Priscilla: As much as I would LOVE to see that, Antagony, my first order as the new leader of the flock stands. Now get out of here and go die in a ditch somewhere! I never want to see your face again! *waits a few moments for Antagony to reluctantly rise, but sighs when she doesn't* Well, go on, your wings still work don't they? GO!!!

*With that final word, Antagony finally started to painfully flap her wings, molting several loose feathers as she rose into the air, with one final shriek in the air, Antagony began to disappear into the distance, leaving everyone except her followers to bask in their newfound joy… of course, one problem remained, that being the trio of harpies still bound in the iron net*

Priscilla: *looks to Andrea* If you wouldn't mind, guys?

*Nodding with understanding, Andrea then walked towards the net and with help from Darius, Leon, and some of the other humans, proceeded to drag the heavy net off the harpies all three of them instantly dropping to their knees at Priscilla's feet*

Laimargia: Oh, thank you, Priscilla, I knew you wouldn't be so cruel as to leave us to the human's mercy.

Molting Harpy: Praise the Gods for our new leader!

*Priscilla, however, was not amused by their pathetic display*

Priscilla: *screams* SHUT UP!!! *voice softens, while her gaze hardens* Do you think sucking up to me is going to give you favor just because I'm the new leader? Well let me tell you something right now, I am not going to remain leader to a bunch of disgraceful harpies who would sooner stab me in the back in Antagony's name than help me return the flock to its proper, respectful manner… So I'm going to wipe the slate clean.

Laimargia: *eyes widen with horror* Wha… what are you saying?

Priscilla: *her gaze hardens further* I'm saying go, join your pathetic excuse for a leader in banishment and leave these humans be, I can't have scum like you in MY flock.

Molting Harpy: But… but you wouldn't have a flock AT ALL!! Without us, you're nothing!

Priscilla: Others will come, I'll be sure of that. Until then… I think I can be sure my friends here in this town would be more than happy to fight off any unwanted guests. But before you go, you are to first return what you have stolen from these people throughout the years.

Laimargia: *angry* YOU CAN'T BE SERIOUS!!!

Priscilla: *smugly* Would you rather take it up with them? *points behind her where Blue, Leon, and Andrea were all brandishing their weapons* Or perhaps THEM?

*Priscilla pointed towards the town's people, some of them now holding up smith hammers, kitchen knives, etc, and all of them looking very angry*

Priscilla: Or maybe I can give one of you the same beating I gave Antagony? Think a little before you give your answer, large-Marge.

*At that insult, Laimargia snarled furiously but soon sighed in defeat afterward*

Laimargia: It… will be done, Priscilla.

*It had been no more than a few hours since Priscilla had banished Antagony and her followers, but to the townspeople of Hydres, it had felt like months of pure bliss had passed by them. No longer having to live in fear each, and every citizen was now more happy than they could ever believe they would again, and of course, every citizen knew just who to thank for it. As Darius, Bel, Leon, and Andrea stood outside the front gates of Hydres, at least half the village, including the blacksmith, Priscilla, Galena, and Agatha had come to see them off before they left*

Blacksmith: *smiles* Now you sure you folks don't want to stick around a little longer? You've been awfully good to this town.

Priscilla: *smirks* That's putting it mildly.

Darius: *shakes his head* Sorry, but we have to keep moving. As much as we'd love to stay a while, we do have our own mission to take care of.

Galena: You say you're heading west, right? Any particular destination in mind?

Darius: *looks to Leon* Leon, what's the nearest place on that map?

Leon: *pulls out the map from his satchel* Well, says here the next village on the map is a place called Plinth, which is about a three-day walk from here, and then after that is… the city of Corinth.

Andrea: I've heard of that place, it's supposed to be one of the biggest centers of trade in all of Greece, isn't it?

Blacksmith: Indeed it is, even we used to sell goods from there before this whole mess started.

Darius: *smiles* That's as good a place as any to head for then. *looks to Priscilla* And what about you, Priscilla? Will you be okay?

Priscilla: *shrugs with a smile on her face* Only time will tell, I guess. It's definitely going to take some getting used to, being a new flock leader and all… especially since I technically don't HAVE a flock now.

Andrea: *places a comforting hand upon Priscilla's shoulder* You will, it's like you said, more harpies will come eventually. In the meantime… *looks towards Agatha and Galena* You still have friends here.

Darius: And with us.

*Darius then gently embraced Priscilla in a hug, with Leon and Andrea joining in, soon enough the four were engaging in a group hug that felt as comforting as it ever could*

Priscilla: *tears welling up in her eyes* Thanks, you guys… thank you for everything.

*As all four of them broke away from the hug, every one of them felt like they had truly created a bond that is sure to last for ages to come. Before long, Darius, Leon, and Andrea were being given individual goodbyes by a fair number of citizens, including Galena, Agatha, and of course, the blacksmith*

Blacksmith: You take care of yourselves now, *shakes each of their hands before fixating his gaze upon Darius and Leon, in particular,* and be sure to keep those swords well looked after, too. They're my pride and joy, you know.

*Needless to say, that earned a small chuckle from the two boys. After that, Darius, Bel, Leon, and Andrea turned away and proceeded to walk down the road, only turning back ever so often to give a wave towards their newfound friends of Hydres. Before long, the town had disappeared into the distance and the three friends had begun the next step on their journey*

Darius: Well… that was something, wasn't it?

Bel: RAWK! So crazy!

Andres: Sure was.

Leon: You know, if we ever do encounter any more harpies during this quest… I hope they're just like Priscilla.

Andrea: You and me both. If we ever run into someone like Antagony again, I might just go crazy.

Darius: Kinda makes you wonder though, you think we’ll run into her again somewhere down the line?

Leon: If we're lucky, she's probably already laying face-down in a swamp somewhere. That's the least someone like her deserves.

Bel: RAWK! Bye-bye, Birdie!

Darius: *chuckles* Yeah, you're probably right. Besides, even if she did survive with one foot, one eye, and a broken ego, how much damage can she do now?

Leon: Well, on the bright side, *holds up Antagony’s severed foot* At least I got a memento of this experience. I’m thinking of maybe hanging it on the wall near my Athena statue at home.

Darius: *face palms* Oh, sweet Zeus, what have I done…?

*Meanwhile, out in the forest on the outskirts of Hydres, Antagony finally fell to her knees on a grassy hill, her skin paling slightly due to the loss of so much blood. Fortunately for her, the place she clumsily landed near was what appeared to be an empty campsite, the fire still going beneath a roasted rabbit. Of course, while the flames would have kept wild animals from getting the food, it was exactly what Antagony needed at this point*

Antagony: *grunts in agony as she breathes heavily and crawls towards the fire* They're… they're not going to get away with this… I'll kill them all!

*At those words, Antagony did the only thing she could to stop herself from bleeding anymore and stuck her bleeding stump of a leg into the open fire*

Antagony: *screaming in agony* GGGGGNNNAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!!!

*It may have been an extreme amount of pain for one individual to endure, but in any case, the heat of the fire did its job and Priscilla's bleeding stub was seared closed, and what's more, there was also some food over the flames that she truly needed at this point*

Antagony: *gritting her teeth in pain* Those filthy humans… ugh… that backstabbing little runt! I should have torn her throat out years ago. Argh! Well, they're not going to bring ME down for long! When I find that boy with the silver sword, I'm going to shove it right through his head!!

*Not even giving the situation a second thought, Antagony quickly snatched the rabbit from its spit and began to devour it not caring in the slightest whether it was cooked or not. Of course, had she paid more attention to her surroundings instead of putting all her focus on food, she would have noticed that the camp was not as empty as she first thought*

???: You ARE aware that it is rude to steal someone else's dinner, yes?

*At first, Antagony didn't so much as lift her head, in fact, she almost laughed when she heard the sound of the human's voice a few paces in from of her, even as injured as she was, surely one lone human wasn't stupid enough to oppose dangerous beast such as her, right? Then again, it was one human that severed her foot off, so she couldn't very well simply shrug this individual off. Lifting her head, Antagony looked on to see a lone figure standing in front of her, her teeth bared, ready to attack if need be*

Antagony: *smirking* Oh, I’m sorry, was this yours? *holds up what’s left of the cooked rabbit*

???: *sighs* Pathetic… Even in your current state, you bare a sense of arrogance. I always hated such a quality in a person.

Antagony: *becomes annoyed* As do I, especially when it comes from someone who has no idea who they're dealing with.

???: I could very well say the same to you.

Antagony: *scoffs* Yeah, well you’re lucky I'm not in the mood for any more bloodshed today, so why don't you just crawl away and skulk about somewhere until I'm finished here. *takes one final bite of the rabbit before tossing the remains at the figure’s feet* Here! There should be a little nourishment in those little bones there, hope you're not too hungry. *sneers with a small smirk as she looks down to tend to her foot*

???: Oh I don't think I will go hungry tonight. Sure, rabbit is tasty… but I think I just found something even better.

*After that, a look of sheer terror slowly began to form on Antagony's face as something that could only be described as something that of a nightmare was happening right before her eyes. While she may have been arrogant enough to attempt to kill a small town of humans with her flock, Antagony at least had enough sense to know that this was one time when she needed to do the sensible thing and fly away. Had she been in a healthier condition, taking off would have been easy, but with one foot, a sliced-up body, and an intense amount of physical pain slowing her down, the poor harpy couldn't even lift herself off the ground high enough before a huge, monstrous hand covered in reptilian scales with sharp claws reached out and quickly grabbed her in its tight grasp*

Antagony: *struggling* AWK!!! No, no!! *screams in pain as the clawed hand squeezes her even tighter* AAAAAAWWWWWWWWKKKKKK!!!

*Antagony may have not been one to admit such a thing could occur to any of her followers on a regular day, but at this very moment in time, she could not deny how truly terrified she was. As she looked up one final time at the terrible being who held her in his powerful grasp, true tears of fear flowed down her tattered face before her final screams finally echoed throughout the entire area*

*Before long, all that remained of the harpy known as Antagony with a few black feathers drifting in the breeze and several droplets of blood that stained the grass at her killer's feet… However, they were not the feet of the creature that had Antagony in its grasp, but rather that of a human. It was none other than Damon, whose mouth and chin were stained with Antagony’s blood, before wiping them clean with his sleeve*

Damon: Hmm… a faint trace of Olympian metal… *looks towards the direction where Antagony flew from* He’s close.
Episode 5 of the re-branded series, Mythologies: Journey Through The Ancient World. Forces move as both Antagony's flock of rogue harpies and Blue and his friends mobilize toward a final confrontation over the fate of Hydres. Victory for either side may depend on a single most unexpected participant.

Written by me, :icondarkblazeknight::iconmalchiorofnol: and :iconmoheart7:

EDIT: The character of Blue has been replaced, due to his creator no longer being involved with the series.
© 2017 - 2024 HewyToonmore
Comments13
Join the community to add your comment. Already a deviant? Log In
Shrubz4Scrubz's avatar
Oh my gosh this was amazing :o. Heh, antagony finally got what she deserved >:D