Reaching For The Stars

Chapter 13

Nebula

It turned out to be a great day, a rarity after many weeks. The decision to set up her stand at Kendall Park in Newberry was a stroke of genius. Who could have guessed that a tournament was taking place there? She had no idea who the players were, but the event drew a sizable crowd, proving to be a lucrative day. This was important too as her gas supply was dangerously low, with most of her funds spent on replenishing her food stock.

Even after leaving, Annabeth continued to assist her, leaving Nebula with one final suggestion. The blonde genius recommended expanding her stock to include freshly baked cookies, muffins, and chocolates. Nebula was thankful for this advice as the baked goods outsold her drinks, generating more revenue than she usually would. While cleaning the coffee machine, Nebula sensed someone approaching from behind, while hearing the clearing of their throat to catch her attention.

"Sorry, I'm closing, but I might be back tomorrow! So, don't hesitate to return," Nebula cheerfully responded, closing the sliding door before turning around to face the newly arrived customer, or so she assumed.

To her surprise, a young-looking woman stood behind her—olive-skinned, strikingly beautiful, like a Persian princess clad in a silver jacket with woodland attire, both sturdy and comfortable. Nebula found herself slightly breathless at the woman's beauty. Adorning her dark, smooth hair was a silver circlet, woven between the strands. Whoever she was, Nebula was starting to believe in love at first sight.

"Uh, c-coffee, tea, m-me?" Nebula stuttered out, cheeks turning pink, momentarily forgetting she had just closed up.

The woman narrowed her eyes, a gaze that transitioned into a cold, hardened stare. Nebula could feel the intense scrutiny, wondering if it was meant to be harsh. Nebula thought so, but she found herself thinking the woman looked cute.

"Art thou Lady Artume's daughter?"

"Huh, how'd you know that? Who are you?"

The princess glanced at the trusty coffee machine, revealing a hint of irritation or perhaps frustration. Nebula waited for an answer, her gaze drinking in the presence of this stunning woman.

"I am Zoe Nightshade, lieutenant of the Hunters of Artemis. My lady has tasked me with finding thee. To ensure protection until Lady Artume's change is complete."

"You'll stay with me during that period?" Nebula asked with a hopeful tone. Zoe frowned, seemingly deeming Nebula crazy. One might think so, given that none of what she said seemed weird to Nebula.

"Art thee familiar with us?"

"Oh, yes," Nebula quickly popped into the front of the car, leaning in as the rustling of papers filled the air. A slight Latin-like curse escaped her at the lack of tidiness. Soon enough, Nebula popped out again, holding a recruitment flyer of the Hunters.

"Found one of these, pretty persuasive arguments, except for the whole 'not able to romance' part."

"Best part of being a hunter," Zoe said with a tight voice, fueled by pure burning conviction.

"Eh, I don't know. Who am I to say? So... I am moving to the next city! Artemis wants to keep an eye on me? An honor, so let's get going then," Nebula said, opening the door for Zoe like a lady.

"We are going East, Nebula. I am not thy 'companion.' My lady tasked me to find thee and bring thee to her current Hunt. There thou will join her on the Hunt for the-"

"Yeah, no," Nebula interrupted, sighing as she crossed her arms and leaned against her car. Zoe blinked, her words caught in her throat by the sharp refusal. "I want to be free and go where I want. Where's my mother anyway? I don't feel her presence anymore."