Who's the hardest person to satisfy in this world? Is it the insatiably greedy? Not quite. Those folks usually end up facing some serious consequences. The gods can fulfill desires, but they don't just hand out rewards without proper tributes. They aren't vending machines; you have to earn their favor, not demand it relentlessly.
So, who really is the hardest to satisfy? A person without desires.
When you try to show kindness to someone who has no intentions or wishes, it becomes a unique challenge. That's the predicament Prometheus finds himself in right now.
Prometheus, the God of Wisdom, possesses foresight. He can't bestow wealth or strength, but he can guide people down the right path. He always assumed those who sought him wanted to become heroes—a straightforward ambition. But this young man, Cyd, only wanted to live an ordinary life, his desires pure and unstained.
Prometheus had guided many to vibrant, colorful paths, but now he struggled to help someone who sought simplicity. For the first time, he didn't know how to respond. Even Athena might find this situation awkward.
Cyd stood calmly, fully aware that his desire was unusual in a world full of heroes and legends. Yet, it was what he wanted most.
"You don't want to become a hero?" Prometheus sighed.
"No, I don't want that life," Cyd replied, shaking his head firmly.
"You truly are a difficult child," Prometheus said, glancing up at the sky. He had shown countless people the way to heroism, yet here was someone seeking a simpler life. Was this a test from Zeus? What outcome did Zeus want?
"Sorry," Cyd muttered, looking down.
"No, you're good. You're 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 stated without hesitation.
"Do I really need that?" Cyd blinked, staring at the sincere Titan.
"Yes, this is the result of my wisdom," Prometheus said, shaking his head. "Though 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 skeptical.
"You must immerse yourself in the Styx River to gain near-immortality," Prometheus said, glancing at the white horse. "Poseidon's horse can lead you there. It won't leave your side 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 can also be gentle when you're deserving of their protection," Prometheus said softly.
"Alright, so if I get an invulnerable body, I won't be affected by war and can live an ordinary life?" Cyd raised his hands in surrender.
"That's not enough. Invulnerability doesn't guarantee protection. You also need skills to defend yourself," Prometheus replied, rattling his chains. "Seek out a centaur to learn those skills."
"But centaurs eat people."
"Find one who doesn't," Prometheus countered.
"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. He trusted 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 added.
Cyd didn't object this time. The idea 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 scratched 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 replied affectionately. "Child, I wish you success."
"Thank you, but I'm sorry I can't help free you," Cyd said, bowing slightly.
"It doesn't matter. This is my choice," Prometheus said, closing his eyes. "Go forward to the future you desire."