Some fanfictions focus on their character development. Athena might be shown learning about the more primal aspects of power from Ares, while Ares could gain some wisdom from Athena. It's also popular to see them in modern - day settings in fanfictions, like they are reincarnated and have to deal with the modern world while still having their inherent god - like qualities and the complex relationship that comes with it.
One common theme is the clash of their personalities. Ares being the god of war, impulsive and violent, while Athena represents wisdom and strategy. Another theme is the idea of forbidden love, as they are often seen as being on different sides in the mythology.
A plot could revolve around a mortal who prays to both Ares and Athena simultaneously. The two gods are intrigued and descend to the mortal world. There, they find that the mortal's problem is a complex one that requires both war - like strategy and wisdom to solve. As they work together, they discover new aspects of each other and their relationship evolves.
One interesting Ares and Athena fanfiction could be about their rivalry in a modern setting. For example, they could be competing in a business world, with Ares using his aggressive tactics and Athena her wisdom. Another might focus on a time when they have to team up against a common enemy from the underworld. In this story, they would have to put aside their differences and combine their powers.
In many fanfictions, Athena stands out as a well - written character. She is usually portrayed as having a deep understanding of the world and the people in it. Her ability to see multiple sides of a situation is often highlighted. For example, in some stories, she is the one who mediates between warring factions. Ares, on the other hand, is well - written when his internal conflict is explored. His love for war but also his awareness of its destruction can create a multi - dimensional character.
Power dynamics is a theme that can't be ignored. Given that Ares is a god and Xena is a powerful warrior, how they negotiate power in their relationship is often explored. Sometimes Ares uses his godly powers to manipulate situations, and Xena has to use her wits and strength to counter. It creates a lot of tension and interesting plotlines.
Another way is to show a begrudging respect. Ares might respect Athena's intelligence in battle even though he is more impulsive. In the fanfic, there could be a scene where Ares witnesses Athena outwit an enemy with her wisdom, and he has to admit, albeit reluctantly, that she has her merits. Then, this could lead to a more complex relationship where they start to collaborate on some military matters.
One idea could be a story where Ares and Athena are forced to team up in a battle against a common enemy greater than any they've faced before. Their different combat styles - Ares' brute force and Athena's strategic warfare - clash at first but then start to blend in a unique way, creating a new form of fighting. This could lead to a begrudging respect for each other that slowly turns into something more complex, like an unexpected friendship or the start of a romantic tension.
Another theme is the power struggle within their relationship. Ares is a forceful god of war, and Aphrodite is used to getting her way in matters of love. Fanfictions may explore who has the upper hand in their relationship, whether it's a constant battle for dominance or a more harmonious give - and - take.
One popular theme could be the complex relationship between Ares and Apollo. Maybe their rivalry in a more romantic or angsty context. Another theme might be how their godly powers interact in the fanfiction world, like in battles or when they're trying to protect a common interest. And often, themes of forbidden love are present as they are both gods with different domains and responsibilities.
You can start by looking on fanfiction websites like Archive of Our Own (AO3). It has a large collection of fan - made stories, and you can easily search for Ares and Athena fanfiction there. There are also some dedicated Greek mythology fanfiction forums where writers share their works about these two characters.