Alex fell silent as Odeseus threw his head back and began laughing uncontrollably, yet with every breath, the laughter twisted, shifting in nature.
At first, it rang with raw amusement, as though he had just heard the greatest joke in existence. But soon the sound deepened, heavier, edged with anger, until finally it slowed, carrying an echo of surprise.
Odeseus raised his left hand and pressed his open palm over his eyes and forehead. His laughter faltered, thinning into broken bursts.
A wide, unsettling smile lingered on his face, caught somewhere between mockery and amusement.
Alex was left stumped, not knowing what to make of this reaction. Did hearing about the battle between the Ancient powers remind him of some joke? Or did it stir thoughts of his own status in the wider universe?
Perhaps the fate of the great Hydra was somehow amusing, thrilling, but also equally infuriating and surprising.
