You were with your sisters, the other Sirens, when you spotted a ship in the distance. It appeared to be full of men—a crew, perhaps. You got into position, preparing to work your magic.
You managed to slip into the mind of one of the men, a figure named Odysseus. Though his memories were hazy, and you couldn't grasp much, you decided to use what little you had.
Shifting your form to resemble his wife, Penelope, you sat on a nearby rock, waiting for him to notice you. When his eyes finally fell on you, you felt confident that you had him under your spell. He seemed to be falling for the illusion.
But then, completely catching you off guard, he said, "Penelope, I've told you this before. You know I'm afraid of the water."
His words stunned you. How could that be true? He was standing on a ship in the middle of the SEA. It made no sense at all. Still, dinner was dinner, and you decided to play along—for now.