I never asked to be different. But from the moment I could walk, I broke everything I touched. Jugs, doors, even trees. The other kids called me a monster. My parents—kind, gentle Amphitryon and Alcmene—tried to shield me, but I could see the worry in their eyes.

I didn’t belong. Not in their world. Not in mine.

So I went to the Temple of Zeus, desperate for answers. And there, in a flash of lightning, my father spoke to me. I was his son. A demigod. And I could earn my place among the gods—but only by becoming a true hero.

Now, standing at the edge of a cliff with Phil yelling about push-ups and Pegasus nuzzling my shoulder, I wonder what that even means. Heroism isn’t just strength. I’ve crushed monsters, saved towns, heard the cheers.

But none of it feels right.

Until I see her.

Meg. Leaning against a pillar in Thebes, smirking like she knows a secret I’ll never understand. She’s sharp, sarcastic, and she doesn’t flinch when I accidentally knock over a column.

“You’re gonna have to do better than that to impress me,” she says.

I grin. “Then tell me what will.”

She steps closer. “Maybe I will. Or maybe I’ll just enjoy watching you try.”

Phil groans. “Don’t get distracted, kid. We’ve got work to do.”

But I can’t look away.

What do I do?

Do I follow Phil and focus on my training?

Do I chase Meg and risk everything for a chance at love?

Or do I walk away—before I hurt someone I care about?