Morning Light

Will stepped out onto the marble balcony of his father's palace, stretching his arms toward the rising sun. The golden light felt warm on his skin, and he smiled as it seemed to flow into him like honey.

"Another beautiful morning on Olympus," he said to himself, adjusting the small leather pouch at his side.

Below him, the clouds drifted lazily around the mountain peaks. Other palaces gleamed in the distance, their columns catching the early light. Will loved this peaceful time before the day began.

A soft knock echoed from his chamber door.

"Come in," Will called, turning back inside.

A young messenger god appeared, his silver sandals still dripping with morning dew. "Will, your father requests your presence in the healing gardens. There's someone who needs your help."

Will's eyes brightened. "Of course! Lead the way."

He grabbed his white tunic's gold-trimmed sash, making sure it was secure, and followed the messenger down the winding marble steps. Today felt different somehow, though he couldn't say why.

The Helpful Stranger

The healing gardens stretched before them like a green maze. Will followed the messenger down paths lined with blooming herbs that smelled like mint and honey.

"Over here," the messenger said, pointing to a marble bench near a fountain.

A young woman sat hunched over, clutching her arm. Her baker's apron was covered in flour, and tears streaked down her cheeks.

"I burned myself on the oven," she said when she saw Will. "The pain won't stop."

Will knelt beside her and gently touched her injured arm. Golden light flowed from his fingers, and the red burn mark faded away.

"Thank you," she whispered. "You're amazing."

As Will helped her stand, three figures emerged from behind the tall cypress trees. They wore dark cloaks that covered their faces, and their eyes glowed green like deep ocean water.

"We've been watching you, young healer," the tallest one said. His voice sounded like waves crashing against rocks. "Your gift is wasted here."

Before Will could react, the strangers surrounded him. The messenger backed away, fear filling his brown eyes.

"What do you want?" Will asked.

"You," the stranger replied.