Finally, a chance to relax, Jim thought with a sigh of relief. The past few days had been a whirlwind of chaos, and a peaceful stroll through Argos sounded like the perfect way to unwind. Besides, Medusa knew this world—this time—far better than he did. Maybe she could show him things about this world he'd never notice on his own.

  "Ready to go? He asked while observing her finish tying her headscarf, carefully hiding the snakes.

  She nodded, adjusting the fabric one last time. Today, she had chosen a long, flowing, light blue dress—simple, unadorned, meant to blend in with the locals as much as possible. Not that it would do much good with Jim at her side. He stood out more than she did, clad in his neatly pressed tan uniform, dark green jacket lined with ribbons, and his officer's cap perched smartly on his head.

  "I'm ready," she said proudly.

  Jim blinked, taking a second look. She had put on makeup today—soft eyeshadow, a hint of blush, and dark pink lipstick.

  He smiled. "You look great."

  Medusa's cheeks darkened slightly, but she held her head high.

  "All right then. Let's go," Jim said, offering his elbow.

  With a small smile, she looped her arm through his, and together, they stepped out of the palace and into the bustling streets of Argos.

  They passed the docks, where people bustled about, carrying baskets filled with ?seafood, making their way up and down the wooden planks. At the far end of the docks stood a small seafood market, where locals bought and sold their fresh catches. The familiar scent of fish filled the air, reminding Jim of the seafood markets alongside piers in the U.S.

  Continuing their stroll, they entered the market district, alive with activity. Stalls and carts were lined on both sides of the street, displaying an array of goods: linen scarves, intricate headpieces, and leather garments. Vendors called out to passersby, encouraging them to browse their wares. Many of the people recognized Medusa and Jim, eager to greet the famed "heroes" and chat with them. They exchanged pleasantries and engaged in friendly small talk.

  As they moved on, they found themselves in another part of the city, ?one filled with vendors selling pottery of all shapes and sizes. Jim's eyes were drawn to a small, intricately painted pitcher. The design depicted a creature with menacing eyes, a face much larger than its body, and a head full of writhing snakes. The creature's enormous tail wound around the pitcher, wrapping it several times as part of the elaborate decoration.

  "Is this supposed to be her?" Jim asked the vendor, holding up the item.

  The seller's eyes widened in realization, and he immediately bowed his head.

  "I'm so sorry! I humbly apologize! That was what we believed before... Please forgive me!" he pleaded.

  Jim sighed and shook his head.

  "Don't be too hard on him," Medusa said softly. "I'm sure it's the same everywhere that's heard of me. After recent events, though, they'll probably depict me more favorably."

  Jim set the item down with a muttered, "Yeah, I hope so."

  "Perhaps I could interest you in something else—this one, of Athena?" the vendor offered, presenting a white pitcher adorned with a blue painting of the goddess, holding her spear and shield. An owl perched on her arm, and a snake coiled at her feet.

  Jim inspected it with approval. "Now, that's a lot better."

  Medusa, however, averted her gaze.

  Instinctively, Jim reached into his pocket, pulling out some loose change. Then he hesitated, realizing the currency discrepancy, but played it off. "Uh, this is all I have. I don't know if... it's enough?"

  The vendor's eyes widened in fascination at the small, round coins—some gleaming silver, others polished copper. He pointed to a quarter and a shiny penny. "You may have it for these two."

  "Deal." Jim handed them over, marveling at the trade. Twenty-six cents for a beautifully crafted pitcher—clearly, the vendor valued the material and craftsmanship more than its fiat worth. Jim grinned, pleased with his unexpected bargain.

  They continued walking until they arrived at a lively gathering spot, where people lounged on plush cushions spread over intricately woven rugs beneath linen-draped canopies. The scent of ripe fruit and spiced wine lingered in the warm air as groups of locals laughed and conversed, indulging in bowls of berries, nuts, and fresh figs while sipping the region's signature wine.

  Jim glanced around and gestured toward an open space. "How about we take a break here?"

  Medusa nodded, her eyes surveying the inviting scene. "That sounds like a good idea. Let's get something to eat."

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  As soon as they settled onto the cushions, a small swarm of eager servers hurried toward them, each vying for the honor of attending to the now-famous pair. Within moments, an array of delicacies was placed before them—platters of fresh fruit, honey-drenched pastries, and roasted nuts—along with goblets of the local wine. Jim took a sip and immediately grimaced at the diluted taste, and drank it anyway, resigning himself to the custom.

  After a moment, he set his cup down and turned toward Medusa. "I've been wondering about something."

  She arched an eyebrow, curiosity flickering in her gaze. "Oh? What's on your mind?"

  "You were a priestess of Athena," Jim mused. "Why her? Why not another goddess?"

  At the question, Medusa's lips spread into a soft smile, a trace of nostalgia passing over her face. "When I was a child, I dreamed of becoming a warrior."

  Jim tilted his head, intrigued. "Seriously?" He watched her with growing fascination, realizing that her smile might be the most captivating thing he had ever seen.

  "Yes, I know," Medusa said with a soft chuckle. "But my sisters and I used to play games where I was the hero, and they were the monsters. We'd chase each other through our home, fighting imaginary battles and staging grand adventures."

  Jim laughed. "That's adorable. Hopefully, no one got hurt?"

  "Not seriously," she admitted with a small shrug. "We played a little rough, but nothing we couldn't handle." She leaned toward him slightly. "I'm surprised you find that interesting. Here, in this time, such things aren't exactly encouraged."

  Jim grinned. "I get it—women aren't allowed to be warriors here, right?"

  Medusa's smile faded, and she let out a quiet sigh. "No, we're not. Only men are granted the honor to bear arms." Her gaze drifted before she continued. "Thus, as I came of age, I chose the nearest path to my heart's desire—I devoted myself to Athena's service, she who governs both war and wisdom."

  Jim nodded thoughtfully. "That makes sense. How was your time in the temple?"

  A warmth flickered in Medusa's eyes as she smiled. "I truly loved it," she said, her voice rich with nostalgia. "Athena and I got along well. I think... I think I was her favorite. She was almost like an adopted mother to me."

  Her voice trailed off, and the light in her eyes dimmed a little. "Well... until..."

  Her gaze dropped with a sorrow that Jim understood all too well.

  He hesitated, watching her carefully before offering a quiet, "I'm sorry." He rubbed the back of his neck, searching for the right words. "Medusa... do you still want to be a warrior? I mean, look at Veronica. She's one. Well, maybe not exactly—she's a soldier, but it's kind of the same thing, right?"

  Medusa lifted her eyes, her expression contemplative. "Yes, we spoke about that before. But there is a difference."

  Jim leaned in, intrigued. "What difference?"

  "A warrior fights for glory and wealth," she explained, her voice measured and sure. "They embark on dangerous quests—to retrieve treasures, slay monsters, carve their names into history. The gods favor them, bestowing gifts to aid their battles. And when they succeed, they return as legends, their status elevated—sometimes even above the aristos." She paused, her gaze distant. "For those born of low caste, it's the only path to greatness."

  Jim's brow furrowed. "Wait, so you're saying people here are just stuck in whatever they're born into?"

  "Mostly, yes," Medusa replied softly. "A fisherman will always be a fisherman. Aristos are born aristos. And women? We are nothing more than women—property to be traded, gifted, bought, and sold."

  Jim's expression hardened, his jaw tightening. "That's... awful."

  Medusa shrugged. "It's the way it's always been. It's all anyone knows. That's why, when I saw Veronica—a woman soldier—I realized how different your world is. Your customs, your laws... they're nothing like ours. You don't just have women soldiers—you have women leaders. I saw some of your captains... were women."

  Jim paused for a moment, letting her words settle. "Oh yeah, we do," he said, nodding slowly. "I never really thought about it that way, because it's just normal for us."

  Her eyes softened. "What seems natural to you feels strange to me. Imagine being raised where the Fates decide everything, then suddenly finding yourself in a world where I can become all I've dreamed of. It brings both joy and fear."

  Jim nodded again, his expression thoughtful. "I get it. It's a lot to take in so soon."

  Medusa sighed deeply. "It is. So, you must understand... I wish to walk this path carefully. Not because I lack desire—I do. But my spirit needs time to find its place here." She reached out, taking his hands gently. "And that includes... other matters as well."

  Jim looked up, his eyes meeting hers, and smiled. "I understand."

  After a brief silence, she asked, "I've been wondering about something else."

  Jim looked at her, curious. "Sure. What is it?"

  She paused again, her gaze shifting to the crowd, lost in thought. "It's just... everything is changing. New people, new world, new life? Maybe... maybe a new name would help me feel like I'm not just clinging to the past anymore." Her voice faltered slightly, and she glanced at him, her eyes searching his face for some sign of understanding.

  Jim thought for a moment, taking in her words. She could see it in the way his expression softened—the way his eyes searched hers, like he understood what she was really asking. "I think it makes sense. You deserve a fresh start—something that feels right for you."

  Her expression shifted, a mix of hope and hesitation in her eyes. "I'm not even sure what I'd want to be called. I just know I need something different, but... I'm not sure what that is yet."

  He nodded slowly, and she felt the silence between them—not awkward, but full of understanding. After a pause, he offered a suggestion, his voice thoughtful. "What about... Maddie? It's close enough to your old name—a little piece of the past, but just different enough to feel like something new. Something that's yours. Something that reflects who you are now."

  "Maddie..." She repeated the name softly. "What does it mean?"

  Jim grinned. "Interestingly, it means strength in battle—or strong warrior. Something like that."

  Medusa's eyes brightened at the meaning, and a delighted laugh escaped her lips. "Strength in battle... Maddie. Yes, I like that. Thank you."

  They were still holding hands when Jim hesitated before speaking. "I was wondering... now that we're in Argos, there's a temple of Athena here. I thought maybe... you and I could go visit?"

  Maddie turned slightly, her gaze drifting. "It's been a long time, and there are questions I'd like answered." She hesitated before adding, "I'll go with you, even if I'm a little unsure."

  Jim's face lit up. "Really? How about after this?"

  "Sure. It would be great to see Mother again."

  They finished their wine, then stood up almost at the same time. Maddie gently slid closer to him, and together, they made their way through town toward the temple.