Nico Di Angelo at Hogwarts

Chapter 12

The grounds of Hogwarts were almost deserted, only the rare early year student scurrying throughout the halls, huddled together with a friend or two for warmth. The snow was falling in thick blankets outside, a usual sight as this is early December. Most of the students were at Hogsmeade for a weekend excursion to get away from the castle for a little bit. 

Nico love winter, it's when he spends the most time with Will, and the scenery is so beautiful. In the spring, summer and fall there are so many colors that it's distracting. They are each so bright and vibrant in their own way that it distracts and overwhelms you. It's hot and humid, especially on the coast where Camp Half Blood is, not that he spends much time there anyway. 

But winter; it is cold and you get to stay inside with a hot drink, Nico gets to snuggle with Will and the outside world is to simple it's stunning. Only two or three colors; black, white and sometimes grey. If you're lucky there's a splash of dark green from a pine tree. He's able to wear long sleeves and thick clothes without being questioned. It's not that he has self harm scars on his arms, those are all elsewhere, (why would he cut where everyone could see?) However, he does have scars from fights and just generally dislikes his body. 

He was watching the snowfall out of his office window when he feels a presence behind him. Already knowing who it was, as he had seen his face in the reflection in the glass, the son of Hades turned into Will's chest and nestled his nose into the crook of his neck.

"Come on, love. Let's go for a walk down by the forest, (We'll sing a chorus....sorry, I'll go home) get out of this castle for a little while, okay?" He asked, and the older felt his heart speed up as he felt the vibrations of the taller's vocal chords against his chest. He hesitantly nodded, nuzzling into his neck even more. He gave a slight giggle. 

"Alright sunshine, lets go get warmer clothes on then." Nico whined slightly as he pulled away. Will just rolled his eyes and held up the older's aviators jacket and long outdoor wear robe that he got for teaching in a silent question on which one his boyfriend wanted to wear. He pondered for a second before choosing the aviators jacket, as it was easier to fight in, and there were creatures that weren't always friendly living in the forest. 

Will nodded and tossed the coat to the Ghost King. He slid it on, relishing in the feeling of the soft fur interior. Will slid on his own white down coat and laced his fingers with his lover's. Nico tugged him into the shadows with ease, the younger now somewhat used to the strange sensation of shadow traveling. When they stepped out of the shadow of a tree a few paces into the forest, Will shivered violently and shook his head. 

"I've always hated that." 

"You were just fine with me when I brought you here," the son of Hades retaliated playfully. He rolled his eyes. 

"Then I was too confused and worried to care." He landed a light punch on the older's shoulder. Nico just giggled and slid his hand into Will's loose grip and pulled him even further into the forest. 

"I have something to show you," The older told him as we neared a clearing. He stayed silent but watched with interest as they came to the gap in the trees. 

"These are Thestrals. And this one's name is Bianca, she's the first one who found me." Nico introduced the younger to the pitch black creature who came trotting up to them hesitantly. Her bony wings were folded at her sides and her head was cocked to the side inquisitively. Her milky white eyes shone with curiosity as she nudged Will's hand, looking for food. 

Nico laughed quietly and summoned a hawk skeleton to go get her and her friends a snack. The bones rattled together as it beat its wings and took to the air. Will's eyes shone brightly as he held his hand out to gently caress the top of her head. She leaned into his touch slightly before clopping over to the other and nuzzled her head into his shoulder.