Henrik reborn

CHAPTER TWO: THE START TO MASTERY

I awaken in a cold sweat, my breath coming in heavy gasps as the memory of the dream gradually slips from my grasp, and the soft screams from the field of punishment reverberate in my ears. Yesterday's events come back to me, and I realize that I am in the underworld. Swiftly, I rise from my bed and noticed that I was under the bed covers and that my shoes were off. Both of which I am pretty sure I did not do. I shake my head, a small smile gracing my lips and make my way to the shower, desperate to cleanse myself of the sweat and grime that clings to my body. Once done I hastily pick up the first clothes I see: a black shirt adorned with a white skull intertwined with delicate flowers and black ripped jeans adorned with silver chains. I shove my feet into black leather lace-up combat boots and toss my Aviator jacket on before shadow-traveling to McDonald's.

The echoes of lost souls linger in my ears, fading as the darkness gives way to the glow of a McDonald's across the bustling street. After cautiously crossing, I step through the glass doors. Approaching the counter, a girl with a wolf cut and blue eyes takes my order. "I'll have a happy meal with a cheeseburger, 2 cheeseburgers, and a cola. Takeaway." I calmly request, mindful of my demigod status- preferring the flexibility to leave at a moment's notice.

"Alright, so one happy meal, two cheeseburgers, and a cola. Anything else, sir?" she asks.

"No, that will be all love," I reply, accepting the slip with my order and given number.

"Your food will be ready shortly."

I scan the room, seeking out an inconspicuous table where I can strategically position myself, ensuring a clear view of all exits for a swift escape if necessary. I'm not keen on turning into a spectacle, battling monsters amidst oblivious mortals. Who knows what the Mist will show them. A secluded table catches my eye, tucked away yet offering an optimal vantage point of both exits. Seated, I await my food, contemplating the words I'll choose when the inevitable reunion unfolds. Expressing 'Hey, it's me, your reincarnated younger brother, bearing the same memories, blood and abilities I had before I kicked the bucket.' doesn't quite fit the bill. I realize uttering such a revelation could lead to psychiatric confinement or worse my death again.

I begin thinking about how I can act as if- "Hey, I haven't seen you around here before and that saying something as everyone knows everyone. This being a small town and all. My name is Angelica,"

My musings are abruptly shattered by a female voice. Glancing towards the voice, diverting my attention. A woman, appearing to be around 25, captures my gaze with light brown hair and piercing grey eyes. She extends her hand, disrupting my internal lament about people's nosiness. Suppressing a sigh, I reluctantly shake her hand. However, this simple gesture triggers an unexpected cascade of visions- a full moon in a cloudless night sky, chains tethered to a cave wall, and eyes with a vibrant, intense golden hue emanating a feral and predatory aura- I cautiously retract my hand, feeling my breath quicken. 'Lycanthrope' my mind supplies, identifying the supernatural source of the unsettling images.

Undeterred, she presses, "And your name is?"

Swallowing the lump that has formed in my throat and suppressing the memories threatening to take control of me, I muster a reply. "Nico."

Surveying the room, I seek any opportunity to distance myself from her. Gratitude washes over me, realizing she's not of Greek descent; otherwise, this encounter could have taken a perilous turn- for her of course. Just as my silent plea for an escape resonates, my order number echoes through the air. "And that would be me. Now, if you please, do excuse me," I declare, rising and maneuvering around her.

Swiftly grabbing my food, I make a beeline for the exit. Yet, just before reaching the glass doors, a hand clamps down on my shoulder.

Suppressing yet another sigh, I pivot to face Angelica. Di Immortals, why won't she relent? "What are you doing in this town?" she interrogates the moment our eyes lock. Frigg, queen of Aesir please bless this lowly child with patience.