Chapter 7 (edited)

Who is the hardest to satisfy in this world? Is it the insatiably greedy person? No, those who are insatiably greedy often meet with severe consequences. The gods can fulfill desires, but they withhold rewards when proper tributes are not offered. They aren't vending machines; people must seek their favor rather than demand it relentlessly.

So, who is the hardest to satisfy? A person without desires.

When you try to show kindness and satisfy someone, only to discover they have no intentions or desires, it becomes a unique challenge. This is the predicament Prometheus now faces.

Prometheus, the God of Wisdom, has foresight. Though he cannot bestow wealth and strength, he can guide people on the right path. He always assumed those who sought him wanted to become heroes, a straightforward desire. But this young man, Cyd, wishes only to live an ordinary life, his desires pure and unstained.

Prometheus had always been able to guide others to the most vibrant, colorful paths, but now he struggled to provide guidance to someone seeking simplicity. For the first time, he did not know how to respond. Even Athena might find this situation awkward.

Cyd, meanwhile, stood calmly, understanding that his desire was unusual in this world. Yet, it was what he wanted most.

"you don't want to become a hero?" Prometheus sighed.

"yes I don't want that life," Cyd shook his head firmly.

"You truly are a difficult child," Prometheus said, looking to the sky. He had shown many people the path to heroism, yet here was someone seeking a simpler life. Was this another test from Zeus? What result did Zeus want?

"Sorry," Cyd muttered, looking down.

"No, you are good. You are not wrong," Prometheus said gently. "My child, I will use all my wisdom to help you."

"Thank you," Cyd replied, lowering his head.

"First, you need an invulnerable body," Prometheus said without hesitation.

"Do I really need that?" Cyd blinked, looking at the sincere Prometheus.

"Yes, this is the result of my wisdom," Prometheus said, shaking his head. "Although war is constant, if you want to live an ordinary life, an invulnerable body will protect you from unintended harm."

"Fine, but how can a mortal obtain an invulnerable body?" Cyd asked, still doubtful.

"You must immerse yourself in the Styx River to gain near-immortality," Prometheus said, glancing at the white horse, "Poseidon's white horse can lead you there. It will not leave you until you reach your destination."

"This sounds like a trick," Cyd said, shaking his head.

"No, the gods can be harsh when mistakes are made, but they are also gentle when you are deserving of their protection," Prometheus said softly.

"Alright, if I get an invulnerable body, I won't be affected by war and can live an ordinary life?" Cyd asked, raising his hands in surrender.

"That's not enough. Invulnerability doesn't guarantee protection. You also need the skills to defend yourself," Prometheus said, shaking his chains. "You should seek out a centaur to learn these skills."

"But centaurs eat people."

"Find a centaur who does not," Prometheus replied.

"A centaur who doesn't eat people?" Cyd thought for a moment. "Chiron... but I'm not interested in being a hero."

"I know. You only need to learn self-defense," Prometheus said earnestly. "Chiron and I are both friendly to you."

"Fine, I'll learn self-defense," Cyd nodded, clenching his teeth. Simply having an invulnerable body wasn't enough; he needed skills too. Prometheus wouldn't deceive him.

"Lastly, you need a Sacred Tool from the God of Fire to protect you from all curses, even those from the gods," Prometheus said.

Cyd didn't object this time. The thought of protection against curses was appealing. Without divine lineage, he could only rely on the gods' mercy. Angering them could lead to dire consequences.

"Why would the God of Fire create such a powerful Sacred Tool for me?" Cyd asked, scratching his head.

"Others might find it impossible to persuade the God of Fire, but you can," Prometheus said with a knowing smile.

"Can't you just tell me directly?" Cyd grumbled.

"Some unknowns are part of an ordinary life," Prometheus said affectionately. "Child, I wish you success."

"Thank you, but I'm sorry I can't help free you," Cyd said, bowing.

"It doesn't matter. This is my choice," Prometheus said, closing his eyes. "Go forward to the future you desire."