GOD OF WAR: In God of War with Hercules Template

Atreus sat outside their home, staring at the surrounding forest, his mind clouded with thoughts. His fingers traced patterns in the dirt, an unconscious attempt to ground himself as frustration and doubt gnawed at him. He had always known his twin was different—Athenor had been faster, stronger, and more driven ever since they were children. But lately, something has changed.

Atreus had always felt a certain connection to his brother. They were twins, two halves of the same whole. But now, as he watched Athenor return from yet another hunt—his movements smooth, his body powerful, his expression calm yet unwavering—Atreus felt something he had never felt before. A deep, sinking feeling of being left behind.

Athenor had spent weeks hunting in the forest, facing dangers that even seasoned warriors would struggle against. At first, Atreus had dismissed it as simple training, as both of them were preparing for the dangers the world would throw at them. But Athenor had progressed at an alarming rate. He could now defeat creatures that should have required teamwork, tactics, and overwhelming strength. He wasn't just getting better—he was evolving into something far beyond what Atreus could grasp.

Atreus knew he was no weakling. He had trained under their father, just like Athenor. He had hunted, learned to use his bow, and absorbed every lesson their mother had taught them. But no matter how hard he pushed himself, no matter how many times he forced himself to keep up, the gap between them continued to grow.

His fists clenched against the dirt. Was this what it meant to be the weaker twin? The lesser half?

A rustling behind him broke his thoughts. He turned to see their mother, Faye, approaching with her usual quiet grace. She had always been able to sense his emotions, and he knew she had been watching him for some time.

"You have questions," she said, sitting beside him. Her voice was gentle, yet filled with understanding.

Atreus hesitated before nodding. "How is he so strong?" he finally asked, his voice barely above a whisper. "I know we're different, but… it feels like he's leaving me behind."

Faye studied him carefully before responding. "Athenor is walking his path, Atreus. But that does not mean you are being left behind."

Atreus let out a frustrated sigh. "That's what everyone says, but no one tells me why he's so much stronger. He doesn't just train harder—he's changing. I can feel it." He looked at her, his gaze searching. "And Father doesn't say anything. He barely looks at me anymore."

Faye's expression softened. "Your father has his way of seeing the world, Atreus. But never mistake his silence for indifference. He watches you both, even if he does not always show it."

Atreus looked down, his fingers tightening into fists. "But Athenor—he's… different now. I've seen him move, Mother. He's faster than he should be. He doesn't just fight well, he fights like… like something else entirely. How is that possible?"

Faye exhaled softly, her gaze shifting toward the trees where Athenor had disappeared earlier. "There are things in this world that shape us, Atreus. Forces beyond what we understand. Athenor's strength comes at a cost—one that you may not fully understand yet."

Atreus frowned. "Then what about me? I don't want to just be 'Athenor's brother.' I want to stand beside him, not in his shadow."

Faye reached over and placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Then you must find your path, one that suits you—not one that mimics his."

Atreus swallowed hard. "But what if my path isn't enough?"

Faye's lips curled into a small smile, filled with warmth and reassurance. "It will be, Atreus. You must trust yourself."

Atreus turned back toward the forest, his thoughts racing. His brother had always been ahead, but this was different. This wasn't just about skill—it was about something deeper. Something he couldn't explain.

For the first time in his life, he wasn't sure if he would ever be able to catch up.