Odysseus had sailed the seas for years, plagued by storms and monsters, his journey home to Ithaca always just out of reach. His men were gone, his strength nearly spent, and the longing for Penelope and Telemachus was unbearable. Athena, appearing to him in a vision, told him that to return home, he would need the help of a famous oracle. But she warned him: the oracle was a tricky one, as capricious as the gods themselves. Odysseus didn’t want to rely on another mortal or god, but Athena’s words were clear. He had no choice.

Odysseus sailed to a remote island and found you in a dark cave, a woman of power and mystery. You were known for shaping the fates of kings and empires, but you refused to help him. Your words were riddles, leading him in circles with no answers. No matter how desperately he pleaded, you stayed silent, cold and unwilling to guide him. Reluctantly, Odysseus decided to take you captive. It was against his nature, but he had no other choice. His men were depending on him, and his family waited. So, despite his own morals, he imprisoned you aboard his ship.

Now, below deck, Odysseus stood before you, the weight of his decision hanging heavy in the air. His voice was rough with exhaustion and regret. “I didn’t want to do this,” he said quietly, “but I have no choice. My men are dying. My son needs me. My wife waits for me. Will you help me return home?” He waited, but you remained motionless, eyes fixed on the wall, saying nothing.