The Sunlit Stars

Chapter 6: The Encounters Part- II

Note -:

This is the continuation  of Chapter 6:The Encounters Part -I. 

Quiz : Identify the Hooded figure in the picture given above.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Forest Encounter: Nico's POV

Unable to sleep, Nico decided to take a walk to clear his mind. He wandered into the forest, seeking the peace and solace he often found among the trees. But tonight, even the forest felt oppressive.

As he walked, he heard a rustling sound nearby. His instincts kicked in, and he drew his obsidian black Stygian iron sword, the blade glowing with a dim purple light in the darkness.

He was ready for a fight, expecting a monster. But instead, Will stumbled out of the bushes, clutching his knee.

"Will? What are you doing here?" Will winced, looking embarrassed. "Couldn't sleep. Thought a walk might help, but I tripped over some spiny plant. Found you instead."

Nico sheathed his sword and hurried over. "Let me see."

Will sat down, and Nico took out some antiseptic and bandages from Will's first aid pouch.

He carefully cleaned the wound and started bandaging it, his movements precise and gentle. Will watched him, feeling a swell of affection.

He's so determined and adorable when he's focused. He mentally scolded himself for being a-little-annoyed with Nico.

"Why are you out here, Nico?" Will asked softly. Nico glanced up, his expression troubled.

"Couldn't sleep. Too much on my mind." Nico added " I'm sorry, Will. I shouldn't have talked to you like that earlier. That was harsh and rude. I was too disturbed. "

Will nodded, understanding. " It's Ok. I understand. Let's walk together then. There's a clearing near Zeus's Fist. It's quiet and you might find it calming."

Nico nodded, still feeling a bit tense. He stood and helped Will to his feet, careful not to disturb the freshly bandaged knee.

They walked in silence for a while, the only sounds being the rustling of leaves and the distant calls of night creatures. As they approached the clearing, Nico felt a subtle shift in the atmosphere. The air seemed lighter, the oppressive feeling lifting slightly.They reached Zeus's Fist, the large boulder formation casting long shadows in the moonlight.

Nico had always found this place to be somewhat eerie when he'd seen it during his First Capture the flag game which was played along with the Hunters. The place felt strangely comforting, a fitting reflection of his own dual nature. They lie down on the grass nearby, the silence between them comfortable for a moment. The grass had started wilting again but slower this time.

Nico stared up at the stars, trying to find the constellations his mother used to point out to him when he was a child. It felt like a lifetime ago.

Will broke the silence. "Nico, you don't have to carry all this weight alone. We're a team, remember? We can handle this together."

Nico sighed, his shoulders slumping. "I know, Will. It's just... hard."

Will's heart ached at Nico's admission. He reached out, placing a hand on Nico's shoulder. "You won't lose me, Nico. I promise. And I know promises in our world are dangerous, but this one I intend to keep."

Nico looked at him, the vulnerability in his eyes stark and raw. "You don't understand, Will. People around me... they get hurt. They die. My mother...sister. Now, no more. "