Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

~Nico~

The sun shone brightly, cascading off Will’s hair, dancing on the fresh grass. Nico couldn’t stop thinking of how beautiful the sun reflected off of Will, but quickly dismissed it. “I can’t believe I’m actually doing this,” Nico muttered under his breath, furrowing his eyebrows.

“Hey there, Death Boy! Glad you didn’t run off on me,” Will chuckled cheerfully, “Looks like you gave Percy there quite a shock, what’cha tell him?”

“I thought I already told you, stop calling me Death Boy,” Nico snapped with a scowl.

He chuckled again. Does he think it’s all a joke?

”Well, you’re stuck with me for a bit now, and since I’m your doctor, I can call you whatever I want… Death Boy.” Will said with a huge grin on his face.

Nico huffed and folded his arms over his chest, “You’re so annoying, Solace. Let’s go and get this over with.”

With a shrug, Will led him from the cabins down to the Big House. Silence filled the air, interrupted by the occasional camper calling out, “Hey Will,” and Will returning the gesture with a wave or a smile. Many of the campers stared, pausing their game of volleyball or archery practice to glare at Nico. 

They’re probably wondering why one of the friendliest people in camp is walking with “The Guy Who Brings Death Everywhere He Goes.”

As they finally reached the steps of The Big House, Will opened the door, holding it open for Nico. Nico nodded in a quiet, “thank you”, before passing through the doors and waiting for Will to guide him to the Infirmary. As the doctor opened another set of doors, the scent hit him immediately. The sterile smell of lemon and rubbing alcohol invaded Nico’s nose, almost causing him to gag. The scent was way too clean, and Nico would ruin it.

“Are you positive you want me here, Solace?” Nico asked him. “It’s just so… clean and fresh and alive. I dunno, Will, I don’t think a person like me should be he—”

“Nico.” Will’s voice was stern but gentle,” The Infirmary is for all, and if anyone should be ‘allowed’ in here, it’s you. You’ve been through prolly more than others and deserve the same type of care as anyone else in this dang camp.”

For some reason, that comment resonated with him. No one has told him that before, not since Bianca was alive. “Okay, let’s go,” Nico breathed.

Will smiled, not like an “Aha!” smile, but a gentle one, like he was proud of Nico. The two boys started down the hall and passed the usual cots for the injured.

“Since you’re gonna be staying with us longer than usual, you get to stay in the…. Special Deluxe Luxurious Grand Super Special Room!” Will made an exaggerated gesture with jazz hands and opened a new door.

The room was neat, but with a certain coziness. A fluffy blanket on top of the cot, along with a couple of pillows. Across the room was your typical doctor's office setup: a cabinet full of supplies, a sink, and a small cart stocked with supplies near the bed.

“Well, I gotta go get some other stuff, but I’ll be back soon!” Will exclaimed. “Just get situated, and I’ll be back in like uhh six, or seven minutes.”

And he went out the door and closed it.

As the door clicked into its place, an easy silence fell over the room. It was as though nothing had ever been there before, or had ever walked out the doorway. 

And Nico had always liked it that way: alone, small in a dark cabin, huddled in a quiet bent over his knees. Yes, that’s how it had always been, and that must be how it will always be. 

However, how could he think that way now when Will’s constant insistence on being absent made it unmistakably clear that something was wrong, and changed, and too empty?

In an almost transcendent haze, he vaguely felt his vision blur, as if he wasn’t in the room at all but somewhere outside of his body. He felt like melting into the deepness of his consciousness, and his body was unable to feel anything but the darkness of his shadow.

With a snap, the clock’s warning finally registered. 

Tick, tock, tick, tock. It shook its head grimly as it rapped its long black finger on its porcelain. There isn’t much time. 

Nico’s blurry vision swiped over the excessive amounts of medical gear: the cold metal of the bottomless sink, the thin privacy board that barely allowed for coverage, the faraway tile of the floor, the creaking wood of the cabinets, the blood bin that could unethically paint the white floors with the stench of warfare and Hades.

An examination, that’s where this will go. That’s where it was bound to go. An examination where Will was obligated to bare Nico to the crushing walls of the room and the thick, suffocating air. Would he find his uneven skin ugly? Is his coarseness unbearable to look at? If only that wolven Lycan didn’t seep and tear his claws through Nico’s grime, then would Nico have been at least bearable to watch, to see, to touch, to hold?

Everything and anything should have been forbidden to Nico, forbidden to his mauled mass of ruined and scarred skin, but here he was—waiting for everything and anything.

A knock on the door snapped Nico back into tangible reality.

The door opened with a cheerful creak, and out popped Will Solace in a fresh new pair of scrubs: pens and tools sticking out of the pockets, a stethoscope around his neck, and a clipboard in his resting hand.

“I’m back, did you miss me?” Will giggled as he closed the door and moved to sit on the small black wheeled chair, wheeling closer to Nico’s bedside while whipping out a pen like he would a bow. Just as clumsily. 

“So, just a few basic questions.” He waved off his initial aura loss with a little chuckle. ”First off, uhm, what’s your full name?”

“Niccolò Di Angelo.”

“See, how easy! Now second, when’s ya birthday?”

“January 28th, 1932.” As Nico responded, he expected a shocked reaction from Will. 

“W-what?” His face dropped. Nico sighed.

“Trapped in the Lotus casino for 70 years, didn’t age, yah yah yah, but I’m basically 14 if that helps,” Nico explained, shrugging off his initial weariness.

“Wow, so I guess all those rumors about you being old are true… Huh. Thanks for the explanation, though.” And he jotted some notes down on the paper. “Last question, do you have ADHD, dyslexia, or anything similar?”

“I have both, I think,” Nico said hazily. “Both ADHD and dyslexia.”

“Hey, we both have ADHD!” Will shared excitedly.

“Don’t like all demigods have ADHD?”

“Don’t ruin the moment.”

As Will jotted down some more notes, he stood up from the chair and kept his clipboard and pen with him. He walked towards the scale and ruler against the wall. Will gestured for Nico to come, and Nico followed.

“Now, just stand on the scale so I can get your weight, and take off your shoes so I can get your height as well.”

Nico took off his heavily decorated boots with a metallic jangle and stood on the scale.

“Now stand up for me, really straight and tall, shoulders back!” Will directed him as if he thought Nico didn’t know how anything check-up-related worked.

And he hated it, hated how Will was babying him, but a small, indescribable part of him didn’t really mind it. For some odd reason.

“Wow, 5’4, that’s pretty short, Nico.” Will frowned in feigned disappointment. Nico wriggled impatiently.

“Oh shut it, Solace.”

Will chuckled to himself, wrote down his height, then looked down at the scale.

“Only eighty-three pounds!?” He exclaimed in shock. “Nico, you’re pretty underweight. When’s the last time you ate?” 

“Breakfast”

“And when was that?”

“...A couple of days ago…”

“Nico!”

Will shook his head while frowning, then wrote down some more on his clipboard. 

“You can put your shoes back on and go to your bed now.” He ordered with a gentle voice, ”We’ll start you on some sort of diet plan soon.”

Nico put his boots back on and plopped onto his bed. Will sat back down on his chair and placed the clipboard face down onto Nico’s bed. 

“Next, I’ve gotta check your heartbeat. Could you please lift your shirt?” Will asked him while unraveling his stethoscope from his neck.

Nico’s hands immediately went to his chest.

“W-what are you going to do with that?” Nico jerked back, eying Will suspiciously.

“Relax, Nico, I won’t hurt you. I’m just gonna put this—“ Will gestured to the diaphragm of the stethoscope— ”onto different places of your chest, while my hand…” 

He waved with his free hand. ”Stabilizes your back. I won’t pinch you or anything, just a hand on your back keeping you upright.”

Oh gods, he’s going to touch me.

Will saw the worry on Nico’s face.

“Nico—” Will said, placing a firm hand on Nico’s shoulder.

Nico jumped at contact, but Will's hand kept him from bolting out the door.

“Nico, I promise you’ll be fine. I won’t hurt you. I’ll even talk you through it,” Will said with pleading eyes.

Nico took a deep breath in and out. “Okay.”

Nico lifted his Hawaiian-printed shirt just enough for Will to work around; still, he felt uncomfortable letting his lower stomach be exposed. With a sigh, Will put the earpieces of the stethoscope to his ears.

“I’m going to place my hand on your back now.” Will directed calmly and slid his hand up Nico’s shirt.

Immediately, Nico felt the surge of warmth radiating from Will’s hand. It traveled throughout his spine, but instead of being uncomfortable, he found the tingling almost soothing.

Will cupped his hand around the diaphragm, warming it up for Nico. “I’m going to place the stethoscope on your chest now; it might be a little cold.”

As the cold metal gained contact with Nico’s skin, he felt a shiver. He suddenly yearned for the warmth of Will Solace, his comforting hand on his back. The skeletal butterflies formed again in his stomach.

“Just take a deep breath in and out,” Will stated, and Nico obliged.

“Whoa there, Nico, your heart is beating like really fast, are you nervous?” Will asked with concern in his voice.

“No, it’s just… cold,” Nico said shyly.

Will hummed in acknowledgement and continued measuring Nico’s heartbeat.

“Well, it’s calmed down a little now, which is good. We’ll keep watching it, though.” Will acknowledged as he replaced the stethoscope around his neck,” You can put your shirt back down now.”

Nico tugged his shirt back down a little too quickly, straining his arm, aggravating the stitches. He hissed.

“Nico, is your arm okay? You just flinched like something’s bothering you.”

Oh no, he’s spotted it. He’s going to think I’m a monster.

Chapter Text

~Nico~

"It’s nothing,” Nico murmured. “Just a scratch.”

“Are you sure?” Will’s voice wavered in concern, instinctively reaching out. “Should I take a look?”

In response, Nico instinctively jerked away, clutching his arm to his chest. Then he averted his gaze from Will’s concerned one. 

“Sorry, I don’t like people touching me,” Nico muttered, his eyes narrowing. “Plus, it’s no big deal, Reyna already fixed it up for me.”

“Oh, I’m sorry about earlier then, but thanks for telling me,” Will said, rubbing the back of his neck in regret. “Could I still see it though?”

“It’s fine.”

“Nico, please, it’s my job to heal people; it looks like it’s still bothering you. I just want to check to see how bad the damage was,” Will begged with pleading eyes.

Nico just nodded.

“May I?” Will gestured, hands already outstretched to Nico’s sleeve.

Nico gave a slight nod.

Will carefully rolled up Nico’s sleeve, his warm hands brushing against Nico’s pale skin briefly. Nico yanked away at initial contact, causing Will to quickly retract his hands.

”Sorry,” Nico apologized with a shudder. “K-keep going.”

Will gave an assertive nod and continued rolling up the Hawaiian print sleeve. When Will finished, he let out a small gasp.

“Nico, this is not fine, your arm is clearly infected!” Will’s tone was full of concern. “Where’d you even get a cut like this?” Will asked, carefully inspecting Nico’s arm, lightly prodding around the wound.

“Lyacon.”

“The werewolf king, Lyacon?”

“Yeah.”

Will sighed,” Is there anything else bothering you?”

Nico’s walls grew higher, towering.

He can never know about my scars; one day, he will, and he’ll leave in terror.

“Nope, just the arm,” Nico replied, not wanting to meet his eyes.

“Okay…” Will said, trailing off with suspicion.  “Well, that arm definitely needs to be taken care of right now,” Will confirmed as he went to the sink, washed his hands, and scrounged the cabinets for supplies. Will came back to Nico’s bed carrying a tray containing an alcohol wipe, a pair of gloves, gauze, some bottles filled with liquid, needle heads, and a syringe.

Will placed the tray on the tool cart next to Nico’s bed. 

“I’m going to start by briefly cleaning the wound, okay?” Will said, as he donned the pair of gloves he brought in earlier, and poured a bottle of liquid onto a sheet of gauze.

“What’s that?” Nico questioned, referring to the liquid being poured.

“Just some saline,” Will replied nonchalantly, ” Nothing harsh, it's just to clean the surface.” 

He finished soaking the gauze in saline and faced Nico. 

“It’s gonna be pretty cold, but that’s all you’ll feel,” Will warned. He then placed the gauze on Nico’s skin, cleaning the surface. The cool temperature felt good on Nico’s wound, relieving him temporarily of pain.

“Your temperature is pretty hot, the infection’s pretty bad. Why didn’t you come in sooner?” Will asked with a frown on his face, still carefully cleaning Nico’s arm.

“I dunno, I just… didn’t want to be a burden.”

“Nico.” Will momentarily paused in his work. “You could never be a burden.”

Nico hasn’t heard words like those since Bianca, not even his sister Hazel could make him feel that way. His ears turned red.

Will continued wiping the surface of the wound. When he was done, he disposed of the dirty gauze and returned to Nico. “Since the infection is pretty bad, this might not be as effective, but I don’t want you all raw dogin’ it,” Will said as he prepared the syringe on his tray, attaching a needle and filling it up with a clear vial.

“Is the shot gonna hurt?”

“A little,” Will replied, ”Why? Are you scared of needles?”

“None of your business,” Nico responded quietly, almost growling.

“I’ve seen you battle armies of monsters more than three times your size, single-handedly, and you’re scared of a little needle?” Will said, softly laughing, while opening up the alcohol wipes’ packet.

 “Here,” Will’s tone was sweet and calm. He offered Nico his hand. “ I know you don’t like physical touch, but you can squeeze my hand as tight as you want; it’ll distract you.”

Nico hesitated for a moment, ultimately placing his palm into the healer's. Even through the latex, Will’s heat transferred into Nico’s, warming up his cold hand.

“Now this is just gonna be a little cold,” Will told him as he wiped a small patch of skin with the alcohol wipe. He shivered as Will fanned his arm.

“Okay, now relax your arm, it’ll hurt less. I’ll count back from five,” Will directed. Nico grasped Will’s hand as Will counted aloud, ”Five, Four, Three, Two, One.” 

Will then plunged the needle into Nico’s arm quickly pressing down on the plunger, then retracting it from his arm.

A slight sting, pressure, done.

“See, not so bad!” Will exclaimed, rubbing his thumb over the injection site. 

“It’ll take a bit for the numbing to kick in, so just make yourself comfortable,” Will told him as he let go of Nico’s hand, took the tray back to the cabinets, and retrieved new supplies.

Nico was reluctant to let go of Will’s grasp. He found his touch comforting, a feeling he’s long forgotten.

Will came back to Nico’s bed with a new tray of supplies, placing it on top of the tool cart. He wore a fresh new set of gloves and sat on his wheeled chair next to Nico’s bed. “I’m just gonna feel around to see if you're numb or not, okay?”

“Okay,” Nico replied. Will pressed two fingers onto his arm.

“Can you feel this?”

“A little.”

“What about this?”

“Yeah.”

“And this?” Will said as he pinched Nico’s arm.

“Ouch, Will!” Nico exclaimed.

Will cursed under his breath. “Just as I suspected, the infection’s too deep. The medication should keep you from feeling too much pain at least, and we’ll take it slow,” Will reassured. “Okay, I’m gonna start now. If you ever feel any excruciating pain, tell me, and we’ll take a break.” 

As Will talked, he gave Nico a little smile of reassurance.

He picked up scissors and forceps from the tray and began to remove the stitches. As Will pulled out the first stitch, Nico winced. 

“Sorry, I know it hurts. If it starts to hurt too much, let me know,” Will informed, not looking up, starting on the second.

Snip, Tug, Snip, Tug. Will kept removing stitches, and Nico kept wincing, the medic momentarily stopping to let Nico breathe. Will pulled out the last stitch and placed the thread onto a piece of gauze with the rest of the discarded pieces, then tossed the gauze. He placed the scissors and forceps on the tray and exchanged them for a couple of new sheets of gauze and a syringe.

“Now I’m going to clean the actual wound this time,” Will said, half chuckling. “But this time I’m using antiseptic, so it’s going to sting. Just be ready.” Will’s tone shifted to serious. He held the gauze at the end of the wound and carefully irrigated the affected area with the antiseptic.

“Oh gods, Will, that burns!” Nico hissed, flinching away and punctuating every syllable. “It burns! It burns!”

“Sorry, Nico,” Will quickly apologized. “I wish we could skip this part, truly,” He paused momentarily, setting down the syringe, wiping Nico’s arm. ”But, I really need to flush out all that gunk, okay? You’re just going to feel pressure; it’s just my hands pressing on your arm. Remember, if it’s too much, just let me know, and I’ll stop right away.” 

Nico then felt Will’s warm hands pressing on his arm and something cold running down his shoulder.

Nico finally looked away from his hands and turned his attention to his arm.

It looked like someone had been murdered with how bloody it was, and the cleaner who was hired to remove the evidence was paid less than a teacher. A torrent of crimson red and rotten yellow bubbled down the sides of Nico’s sickly colored arm. Soon, it was wiped away with Will’s concerned caress. As soon as Nico focused on the sensation of the medic tending to him, the sour odor suddenly burst into his revolted senses. His face twisted in a grimace as all of his worries—worries if Will had noticed but hadn’t spoken up about it out of courtesy—pranced around him like the mocking laughter of a jester. 

How could my body make something so… vile? He felt like vomiting, his stomach warping inwards as if to aid him in silencing those thoughts. 

Almost as if sensing Nico’s stare, Will paused his work and caught Nico’s attention, meeting his eyes. Nico immediately looked away, back to his hands.

“Nico, look at me,” Will said, his voice firm but calm. But he couldn’t. Nico’s heart was pounding, the disgust of his arm getting to him.

“I-I can’t,” Nico stammered, looking back at his blood-stained arm. His fingers twitched, wanting to pull away.

“Yes, you can,“ Will soothed. “Look at me, focus on my voice, not your arm. If you focus too much on the wound, it’s just gonna get worse. Just focus on me, okay?” 

Nico’s stomach twisted, but he forced his eyes to meet Will’s. Deep brown meets light blue. The skeletal butterflies made another fluttering appearance.

Will gave Nico a small, reassuring smile. 

“See, you’re already calming down,” Will spoke with steadiness in his voice, gesturing to his arm. “May I continue?” 

Nico gave a small nod. I can do this… for Will.

Will gently pressed onto Nico’s arm, carefully wiping the pus and blood away with a fresh piece of gauze, smiling a proud smile at Nico.

Every so often, Will would irrigate more antiseptic, causing Nico to wince. “Just breathe and focus on me,” Will would remind him, his voice smooth as honey. Then the tension in Nico slowly faded away.

Finally, it was over. Well, no, not really.

“Almost done!” Will exclaimed, discarding the dirty gauze and syringe, ”All I need to do is restitch your arm.”

Oh gods, more needles. Nico tensed up.

Will immediately sensed Nico’s tension. “Don’t worry, I’m pretty sure the anesthetic I gave you earlier will be effective for this,” encouraged Will.

“Pretty sure?”

“Like ninety percent. Just remember if you-“

“-feel anything, just let you know, and you’ll stop,” Nico continued.

Will smiled. "See, you already know the drill!” Will grabbed his forceps and sutures. He started the first stitch and tied it up. “Feel anything?”

“Actually, no. It’s just like hard pressure."

“See, I told you!”

“Just keep stitching.” 

Will chucked. “You betcha, Death Boy!”

Nico rolled his eyes.

Will carefully stitched up Nico's arm, neatly tying off his sutures and starting a new one.

“And done!” Will exclaimed, placing his tools down and grabbing a roll of bandages. He carefully wrapped it around Nico's bicep, fastening it with surgical tape.

“Wow, it actually feels way better,” Nico realized.

“Well, it better be! I just spent the past hour making it as good as new,” Will stated.

“Well, I wouldn’t say new.”

Will laughed.

“Thank you, Solace,” Nico said.

“Anytime, Nico,” Will smiled a gentle smile. “Now I gotta clean this up, and you should get some rest.”

“I guess.”

Nico shifted to his bed, Will assisting him, draping a blanket over him.

“Sweet dreams, Nico,” Will said with sincerity, turning off the lights, grabbing his tray of tools, and exiting the room.

For the first time in forever, Nico felt safe and drifted into sleep.

Chapter Text

~Will~

Will gave an assertive nod, smiling under his breath as he continued rolling up the Hawaiian print sleeve. His hands trembled as they hovered over the mauled mass of arm and flesh, an unexpected gasp falling from his lips as his smile immediately ripped itself off his face. He had to be professional, and he couldn’t shame Nico with any sort of negative reaction.

“Nico, this is not fine. Your arm is clearly infected.” With quivering concern, the doctor hesitantly inspected Nico’s gored arm. He had to restrain the bubbling pressure of bile rising on his tongue. “Where’d you even get wounds like this?” 

“Lyacon.”

“The werewolf king, Lyacon?”

“Yeah.”

Will sighed, ”Is there anything else bothering you?”

“Nope, just the arm,” Nico replied, looking away from Will.

“Okay…” Will said, trailing off with suspicion.

Will closed the door behind him, tray in hand, and started towards the supply room. His mind was anything but empty.

When he inspected Nico’s Lyacon laceration, he noticed other things too. Cuts on his wrist, too perfect, too sharp. And still halfway bleeding.

Nico self-harms. And he tried to hide it from me.

Nico had many pale scars, some darker than others, aligned close together beneath Lyacon’s violent memoirs. He treated Nico’s wound to the best of his ability, with steady hands and a reassuring voice, but his whole world was crumbling.

Once Will had entered the storage room, he placed his tray full of supplies into the discard chute. The metallic clang was too loud. Too sharp.

Will broke down.

He was back in Manhattan.

Campers and monsters are battling to the death. The wounded were scattered across the streets.

Will ran back and forth, from camper to camper. Shouting orders to others to help carry the wounded to Olympus, but he knew he couldn't help them all.

Lee had passed, meaning Michael was head of the cabin. 

Now Michael is missing.

And 13-year-old Will Solace was now in charge.

Up on Olympus, hundreds of campers were spread across the gardens. Himself, Kayla, and Austin were preparing a makeshift medical center, sprinting from patient to patient even while out of breath and exhausted.

Gold. That’s all he saw.

The Golden Shrouds of his family. Too many of them. All dead.

The shrouds of all the other campers' colors splattered across Olympus. All dead. Just because Will couldn’t save them, just because Will was too slow.

Snapping back into reality, Will calmed himself down with deep breaths. In and out, in and out.

Instinctively, he grabbed the piece of Ace Bandage out of his pocket and started wrapping and unwrapping his left wrist. Over. And Over. And Over.

Will only started doing this after the Battle of Manhattan. He needed a way to cope.

It seemed every ten seconds someone hurt their wrist defending themselves, so every ten seconds, Will would wrap a new wrist. 

The motion became forever ingrained in his mind, just by repeatedly doing it.

But it wasn’t enough.

Will knew he shouldn’t cut himself; he was a medic, he should know better than that. But he felt that he deserved to be in pain, for all the lives he’s lost. Every cut for every life lost. That was fair, wasn’t it?

Will wrapped the bandage tight until his fingertips turned purple, then quickly unwrapped it. 

“I deserve this, so much bloodshed on my hands? How incompetent are you, Solace?”

But the sounds of the infirmary snapped him out of his trance.

The infirmary doors swung open, a flood of campers coming in, occupying all the empty cots. Will shoved his bandage into his pockets and rushed into the main part of the infirmary.

“Kayla, Austin, what in the Hades is going on here!” Will practically screamed.

“Hermes Cabin just got done in the Training Grounds,” Kayla acknowledged.

Connor and Travis Stoll, both Hermes cabin boys, came crashing into the infirmary. Connor held Travis in a chokehold, and Travis retaliated by mockingly swinging a baseball bat at him.

“Gentlemen,” Will said calmly, ”This is not the training grounds; this is the infirmary. Now if you could please—“

CRASH!

Connor and Travis tackled each other and consequently crashed into a cot, still petulantly fighting each other.

Monsters were changing the structure of the pavement.

Campers flung into the air.

Will was hiding behind a flipped car, praying something wasn’t about to attack him.

No, Will. Not the time.

“No messing up my infirmary!” Will yelled at the Stoll Brothers with an enunciated “my.” They froze completely, still in their tangled position. “Now either you straighten yourselves up, listen to my siblings and me, or I curse you to rhyme in couplets for weeks without end.”

Connor gulped, glancing between him, Austin, and Kayla with a sheepish grin.

“Sorry, Will, we were just rough-housing,” Travis said apologetically.

“Totally Will, we just, like, forgot you had, like, rules… and stuff,” Connor said sheepishly.

Travis smacked the palm of his hand to his forehead.

“Thank you guys, now go find a cot that’s preferably not tipped over, and one of us will tend to you soon,” Will ordered with a firm gaze, trying to exert as much of his authority as he could.

The brothers glanced at each other and then quickly obliged, heading off to find an empty cot, quietly bickering as they did.

Will took a deep breath and pulled out his bandage. Mindlessly wrapping, unwrapping, and rewrapping it around his wrist to ease his mind.

  “Will, you’re doing that wrist thing again,” Kayla pointed out. “Something wrong?”

“Just the Hermes Cabin, they’re always playing tricks and messing up my infirmary,” Will replied slowly, stopping his quirk.

“Yet, when I play a prank on you, I get punished with clean-up duty,” snarked Austin.

“That’s because I’m in charge of you. Plus, I’m your older brother, so seniority.” Will pointed out matter-of-factly.

  “Kayla, can you manage up here?” Will asked. “Austin and I will take the south wings.”

“Aye-Aye, Captain Will!” Kayla saluted, tightening herself up into a military stance.

Will saluted back, and he and Austin went to help the injured.

Most of the injuries weren’t so bad.

Minor scrapes, a few fractures, but overall not bad.

“Hey, Will!” Cecil shouted, one of Will’s best friends from Hermes Cabin.

“Cecil!” Will greeted with a smile as they dabbed each other up. He was happy to finally see a friendly face. “So, what happened this time?” 

“I think I might’ve done something to the old leg,” Cecil explained. “Was chasing after a new camper when I tripped on a rock… I also might’ve scratched up my face.”

“Yeah, I can see that,” Will acknowledged, chuckling. “Well, for the face scratches, we just need to disinfect, slap a couple of Band-Aids on, and it’ll be just swell. Now let’s see about the leg. May I?” Will gestured to Cecil’s leg.

“Uh, yeah, that’s why I’m here, dude, why do you need to even ask?” Cecil questioned.

“Oh, sorry, I don’t know why I did that, huh?” Will thought.

“Nico, please, it’s my job to heal people; it looks like it’s still bothering you. I just want to check to see how bad the damage was,” Will begged with pleading eyes.

Nico just nodded.

“May I?” Will gestured, hands already outstretched to Nico’s sleeve.

Will was still in “treating Nico mode.”

Snapping out of it, he examined Cecil’s leg, feeling for where he winced and the tension in his leg. “Looks like you just strained a muscle,” Will stated. “I’ll just put some tape on it, and you’ll be good to go!”

Will grabbed some gloves, antiseptic wipes, Band-Aids, and some KT Tape from a nearby cabinet and returned to Cecil’s side.

“Okay, this is gonna sting,” Will said, pulling on his gloves and tearing the wipes from their packet.

“So rumor has it that you’ve been hanging out with Nico Di Angelo,” Cecil said with a grin.

Will paused.

“Who told you that?” Will asked with a little too much snap in his voice, wiping Cecil’s scrapes with an unnecessary amount of force.

“Ow! Jezz Will!” Cecil exclaimed, wincing. “A little someone who likes to play the saxophone…”

“Austin.” Will almost growled.

“Perchance.”

Will finished wiping Cecil’s scrapes and added Band-Aids on top. He then changed his focus to Cecil’s leg, starting to clean it.

“Well, is it true?” Cecil prodded more.

“Well, it’s none of your business.”

“Oh. My. Gods. YOU ARE HANGING OUT WITH HIM!”

“Bend your leg, and place your foot flat on the cot,” Will ordered, not answering the question.

“Why are you even hanging out with him?” Cecil asked as he complied with Will’s directions. “That dude was kinda freaking me out when you, Lou Ellen, and I were scouting for the Romans.”

Will pressed onto Cecil’s leg hard.

“GODS, WILL!” Cecil shouted. “I’m just asking a question!”

“You need to mind your own business, plus I was just fixing his shoulder from an injury he obtained during the battle,” Will stated, placing the last strip of Tape onto Cecil’s leg. “Anyways, I’m done. Try not to kiss the dirt anymore, would you?”

Cecil rolled his eyes at him.

“Yeah, yeah. But thanks, Will. See you around!” Cecil exclaimed and exited the Infirmary.

Will disposed of his gloves and trash, then immediately searched for Austin.

“There you are!” Will said with a fake smile on his face, Austin had just finished wrapping up a girl’s arm. “Walk with me, Austin.”

“Ooooh, you’re in trouble,” snickered the girl as she sang the words out in a drawl.

“So, Cecil just told me you’ve been spreading rumors about Nico and me. Is that correct?” Will asked his younger sibling.

“Dang, these Hermes kids cannot keep a secret,” Austin cursed.

“WHY WOULD YOU SPREAD AND CREATE RUMORS, AUSTIN?!” Will yelled at Austin now that they were in a hallway, restricted to the infirmary staff.

“Okay, what happened to the ‘No yelling in the infirmary rule’ YOU created?” Austin said, crossing his arms.

“My rules, my loopholes,” Will confirmed, “Now answer the question, or you’re on cleaning duty.”

“You know I hate cleaning duty,” Austin sighed,” I saw you earlier bringing Nico into the infirmary, so I was basically asking around if anyone knew why.”

Will took out the bandage from his pocket.

“I’m sorry, Will,” Austin apologized,” I just don’t want you hanging out with him to ruin how people see you.”

“Well, it shouldn’t,” Will said firmly. “ I was just healing him, doing my job.” Will took a deep breath in and sighed, “Just don’t do it anymore, okay?”

“Got it, Will.”

Will was about to start wrapping his wrist when he heard a shout.

“AHHHHHHH WILLLL I NEED YOUUUU!”

He shoved the bandage back into his pocket.

“Guess I'd better go see what that’s all about,” Will sighed. ”You go back into the South Wing and finish up over there.”

“Yes, sir!” Austin headed towards the South Wing, bouncing over his steps cheerfully.

Will paced towards the direction of the scream, hoping it wasn’t anything too major.

It was worse.

Crying on a cot was Drew Tanka, Will’s ex-girlfriend. Oh, the terror.

“Oh, thank the Gods you’re here, Will!” Drew exclaimed. “I fell over and terribly injured my knee.” Her hands were over her right knee as if she was holding it from falling apart.

Will sighed, keeping his expression professional even as he begged to scowl. ”Let me take a look,” he said, already slipping on a pair of gloves.

He grabbed a tray full of basic supplies: a roll of bandages, gauze, and antiseptic wipes. He removed Drew’s hands from her knee to reveal… a scrape. 

The scrape wasn't even bleeding, just opening the first layer of skin, revealing a tiny pink blotch about the size of a grape.

Will touched it to check for any internal damage, but found nothing.

“Oww, Will, be gentle!” She cried.

“I am being gentle,” Will replied, deadpanned. “It’s just a minor scrape.”

“No, it’s NOT!” Drew cried out. “Oh! I can barely walk. It hurts so bad. Can you treat my knee?”

“All it needs is a Band-Aid,” Will stated. “Maybe just a quick wipe of antiseptic at most. Campers are bleeding and limping right now. You’re fine, Drew.”

“But it hurts.”

“My sanity hurts,” Will muttered under his breath.

“What?”

“Nothing,” Will sighed. “I’ll… go grab a Band-Aid.”

Will went to a nearby cabinet and replaced the roll of bandages with a singular brown bandaid.

He sat on the side of Drew's cot and began to disinfect her knee.

“This might sting, but most likely, not,” Will warned.

“Well, can I hold your hand? I’m scared,” Drew whimpered.

“Here,” Will’s tone was sweet and calm. He offered Nico his hand. “I know you don’t like physical touch, but you can squeeze my hand as tight as you want; it’ll distract you.”

Nico hesitated for a moment, but ultimately placed his palm into the healer's. Will could feel his warmth transferring to Nico, holding his hand.

“I’d prefer if you wouldn’t,” Will replied, wiping Drew’s knee. “ It’s uh—easier to work with two hands instead of one.”

“Oh come on, Will,” Drew pleaded,” You were so sweet when we were together. You always held my hand when fixing up my boo-boos.”

“Yeah, but then you dumped me on Valentine's Day,” Will retorted, dabbing Drew’s knee dry with gauze.

“A mistake! It was only to prove myself to my cabin,” Drew pleaded.” I miss you, Will.”

“Yeah, well, I don’t,” Will said sternly, placing a band-aid on Drew’s knee. “I’m done, you can leave now.”

Drew huffed and left the infirmary.

As soon as she left, Will let out a haggard sigh, slumping against a nearby wall and staring at the wooden ceiling. He pulled the worn wrap out of his pocket and began to mindlessly rewrap his wrist, humming as it purpled and regained its color. 

“Will! Can you come over here?” Kayla shouted from across the infirmary.

On a dime, Will snapped back into reality again, shoving his bandage into his pocket and going towards Kayla’s shout.

On a corner cot was a tiny girl with blond pigtails, crying into her palms.

“What happened?” Will asked Kayla.

“She came in crying, but won’t let me do anything,” Kayla answered,” I thought you might have better luck since you have that calming effect with children.”

“I’ll try, Kayla,” Will responded. “You go help some other campers.”

Kayla nodded and headed to occupied cots.

Will knelt beside the crying girl, putting on a warm smile.

“Hey—ah—what’s bothering ya?” Will asked, a calm gentleness to his voice as he reached out to reassure her that it’s a safe place.

“My ankle hurts rewlly bad.”

“Could I see? I won’t hurt you, I promise,” Will said with reassurance.

The little girl nodded.

Will slowly examined her ankle, lightly prodding it, checking for swelling or redness, careful not to force anything. “Looks dislocated, sweetheart,” Will said with a slight frown. 

“Kayla, if you’re not busy, could you come over here?’ Will called.

“What’s up?” Kayla responded by jogging towards Will.

“Could you hold her leg down, please?”

The little girl immediately tensed up.

“Hey,” Will put his hand on the little girl’s shoulder, “Don’t worry, Kayla’s just going to stabilize your leg as I realign it, and put a splint on, okay? Don’t worry, all you’ll feel is a little pressure."

“O-okay,” the girl said quietly, eyes widening

He offered his hand. “ You can squeeze my hand as tight as you want.”

She took Will’s hand and squeezed it with surprising strength.

“Okay, in three, two, one,” Will spoke, carefully grabbing the girl’s small ankle, gently guiding it to a safe alignment.

Once in place, he secured it with a splint made of bandages and cloth.

“You’re alright,” Will soothed. “ It’s over now, you did amazing. You didn’t even cry.” Will put his other hand on top of the girl’s, rubbing her hand with his thumb.

“You know I haven’t seen you before,” Will noticed, “ What’s your name?”

“Nola.”

The name struck like a blade.

“Oh gods. Nola, I’m so sorry, it’s just too much blood loss-”

“Will, it’s alright,” she smiled, and she never stopped.

No, not right now, can’t break down in front of a kid.

Will took a deep breath.

“That’s a beautiful name, Nola,” Will responded softly. “I’m Will.”

“Thank you for fixing my ankle, Will,” Nola replied, smiling.

“Of course!” Will responded happily. “ If you ever get hurt again, don’t be afraid to come and get Kayla or me,” Will said, gesturing to Kayla, still observing in the corner, waving to Nola, “or Austin, too.” Will chuckled.

He patted her hand and stood. Then, he and Kayla walked away.

Instinctively, Will shoved his hands back into his pockets, fishing out his bandage. He immediately started wrapping and unwrapping.

“Will, are you okay?” Kayla asked, putting a hand on Will’s shoulder.

“I guess,” Will replied dejectedly. “That girl has the same as someone I-I couldn’t s-save during Manhattan.”

“Oh, Will,” Kayla said, now embracing him. “None of those deaths are your fault, just remember that. You’re an amazing healer.”

“Thanks, Kayla,” Will replied, leaning into her embrace, placing his head on top of hers. 

He shoved his bandage back into his pocket, straightening up. “Now let’s go get the rest of these guys out of here.”

Will put on a calm face, as he always did.

Healers heal.

Not the other way around.

Chapter Text

~Nico~

Nico was back in Tartarus, back with them.

Nyx turned to the giants. “Take him.”

Behind Otis and Ephialtes, the massive fanged stallions snorted and pawed the ground.

Nyx raised her hand. “Settle down, Shade, Shadow …There will be other flesh for you to devour.”

Hypnos took their reins and led them away, as Otis loomed over Nico. The giant’s huge hands wrapped around the demigod’s ribcage and lifted him from the ground, but Nico was too tired, too scared to resist.

“Did you bring it?” Otis asked his brother.

Ephialtes scoffed. “Of course I did. What kind of giant do you think I am?”

The Big F snapped his Big Fingers. An enormous bronze jar poofed into existence on the gravel path. As Ephialtes prised open the lid, Nico realized the jar was just the right size to fit…well, him.

“Thanks for making this so easy, kid,” Otis said, lifting him over the mouth of the jar. “I can’t promise this won’t hurt.”

“Goodbye, Nico di Angelo,” Nyx called. “You may not remember our meeting. Your tiny mind may crack under the strain of what you have seen. But if you somehow survive …it will be delicious to see what you become.”

~Will~

“Dang, it’s almost nightfall,” Will said, as he checked the clock on the infirmary wall. “It took this long to clear out the Hermes kids?”

“Well, the low supply of ambrosia made it pretty hard to quickly treat everyone,” Kayla answered, rearranging cots. 

“You guys mind cleaning up? I’ll take a night shift today, I wanna check on Nico’s arm,” Will asked.

“Sure, Will,” Kayla said, smiling.

“Do I have to?” Austin groaned.

Kayla stomped on his foot.

“Di Immortales, Kayla!” Austin screeched. “I mean, of course, Will,” Austin said with a fake smile.

“Thanks, guys,” Will replied. “I’ll be in the cabin if you need anything,” he stated. “Be back soon!” Will called back as he exited the Big House.

Will walked back to Cabin 7 with a purpose, the sunset staining the sky in warm streaks of orange, making the camp glow. He loved watching the sunsets, but not today. When Will had seen Nico’s clothing, an old Hawaiian t-shirt that he wore during the battle, and his ripped jeans, he knew something must be done.

“I can’t just let Nico rot in those old clothes; he needs new ones. Oh gods, what if his shirt is irritating the stitches I just put in?”

Will pushed open the wooden doors to the gold-painted cabin, being greeted by the cozy-warm feeling of home. For the first time in hours, he let himself breathe.

Since Will was a full-time camper, instead of a trunk, he received a small dresser next to his bed. Will dug through his dresser, finding random shirts, cargo shorts, and scrubs, when finally, he found an old, deep navy blue hoodie, faded gently around the cuffs. 

His mom had given it to him before his big growth spurt. It used to be his favorite, but it now sat at the bottom of his dresser. It was too small for Will now… but perfect for Nico. His other clothes would be too big for Nico, so he’d have to go get some from the camp shop.

Will exited the cabin, hoodie in hand, heading for the camp shop in the cool evening air. Will opened the door, the bell above chiming. On a table laid out in the center were rows of the classic Camp Half-Blood t-shirts. Will grabbed a shirt and then looked for some pants. 

He spotted a shelf full of sweatpants and started scrounging. He found a comfy black pair that Nico would like and went to the cashier.

A Hermes kid was running the booth today, with bandages all over his arms from the cabin’s sword training earlier.

“Hey, Will!” the boy exclaimed. “Thanks for fixing up my arms!”

“No problem, Scott,” Will replied. “Just these two, please.”

“For you? On the house,” Scott said happily, “My arms feel so much better now.”

“Aww, thanks, Scott,” Will said sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck. “Make sure not to overwork your arms!” Will called out as he exited the shop.

“Will do!” Scott shouted. “Bye, Will!”

“Bye, Scott!”

Now came the important part, actually giving Nico the clothes.

As Will entered the infirmary, Kayla and Austin were just about to leave.

“Thanks for cleaning up, guys,” Will acknowledged.

“Yeah, no problem!” Kayla replied cheerfully.

“Who are those for?” Austin said, gesturing to the bundle of clothes cradled in Will’s arms.

“Oh, these are just for Nico,” Will stated. “His clothes right now are in pretty bad shape, plus they might irritate the stitches I gave him, so I just wanted to make sure that-“

“Sounds like you really care for him,” remarked Austin.

Will’s ears turned red as Austin grinned.

He’d always admired how brave Nico was during both recent battles, slaying monsters, even bringing three deities to aid in the Battle of Manhattan.

“I’ll see you guys tomorrow,” Will said, quickly changing the topic.

“Bye, Will,” Kayla and Austin both said in unison, as they exited the Big House.

Will walked over to the hallway where Nico’s room was located. Expecting Nico to be asleep, he quietly opened the door and stepped inside.

A shiver ran up Will’s spine.

Usually, the infirmary is cold at night, but never this cold.

He placed the bundle of clothes on top of a counter, then headed towards Nico.

Nico’s face was serious.

His eyebrows were furrowed, his lips parted, and he looked like he was fighting something.

Immediately, Will’s medical training kicked in.

He pressed two fingers gently to Nico’s throat. His pulse was jumping, way too fast. Breathing was shallow. Skin is paler than usual. 

Will moved his hand, placing the back of it into Nico’s forehead.

“No fever, must be a nightmare,” Will whispered under his breath.

“Hey, Nico,” Will said gently. “You’re having a nightmare. It’s time to wake up.” As Will reached for Nico’s shoulder, the ground shifted.

A crack ran across the floor, spirals of the earth drilling their way up. Shadows rippled outward from Nico, flowing along the edges of the cot, curling along the floor.

A shadow-wrapped tendril shot forward, wrapping around Will’s ankle.

“Di Immortales!” Will shrieked, pulling his ankle away from the shadow's grasp. The shadow retaliated, pulling sharply, as if wearing him…

“Okay, stay calm, Will,” he muttered to himself, taking deep breaths. “Nico, listen to me. You’re okay, it’s just me, Will,” he said, putting his hands up.

The shadows wavered.

“Gods,” he thought, changing his plan.“I can’t believe I’m retorting to this.”

Will looked down, facing the shadows.

“I just want to help him,” he pleaded. “Please.”

The shadows seemed to have thought about it, slowly releasing Will from their grasp. Thank the Gods that worked.

Will sat on his wheeled chair next to Nico’s cot. He slowly grabbed Nico’s hand, putting it in between his. Without anything in between his and Nico’s hands, he felt the same electric current he once felt on Half-Blood Hill.

“Mellie and the kid are all right?” Nico asked

“Fine. A very cute little satyr boy.” Will shuddered. “But I delivered it. Have you ever delivered a baby?”

“Um, no.”

“I had to get some fresh air. That’s why I volunteered for this mission. Gods of Olympus, my hands are still shaking. See?”He took Nico’s hand; he could feel the darkness radiating throughout Nico, and an electric current going down Will’s spine. Nico quickly withdrew.

“Whatever,” Nico snapped.

Just as before, Will could sense the darkness in Nico, a side effect of using too much of his powers.

Nico had to calm down, now.

“Hey there, Nico,” Will murmured, rubbing Nico’s hand with his thumbs. “It’s just me, Will. You’re alright. You’re safe. I’m here, I’ve got you,” Will soothed.

Slowly, the spirals of earth drilled back down into the ground. The cracks sealed up, the shadows going back into Nico.

Nico’s muscles relaxed, his eyebrows unfurrowed, his lips back together, and his breathing back to normal. Will could feel Nico’s pulse in between his hands, slowly calming down, back to a normal beat.

Will smiled, still rubbing his thumbs along Nico’s delicate, pale hand. He was one of the only campers who could calm down the rowdiest of kids; even Clarisse, in his presence, would lower her blades.

Nico shifted, from facing the ceiling, now towards Will. His hair was falling into his face. 

Slowly, Will lifted one of his hands from Nico’s, pushing his stray hair away from his eyes. Nico’s face was peaceful. Will noticed a slight tug of Nico’s lips, a faint smile. 

Will couldn’t help but grin even harder. He’d always had feelings for Nico, the boy who helped fight against the Titans, the boy who helped unite Camp Half-Blood and Camp Jupiter, bringing peace. The boy who isolated himself from others, always in the shadows, never in the sun.

He suddenly remembered he had work to do.

Will sighed, wishing he could stay, holding Nico’s hand, watching him sleep, but forced himself out of Nico’s grasp and headed towards the door. 

He didn’t want to leave Nico alone.

At the front desk of the infirmary, in a neat pile, was a tower of yellow envelopes—patient files. Sitting on top was a folded piece of paper that read, Will, in Austin’s horrendous handwriting. 

Will,

Me and Kayla did all the dirty work, literally, I HAD TO CLEAN UP A PILE OF VOMIT!

Now it’s your turn to fill out the 30+ files of the Hermes Cabin :)

-Love, 

Your favorite sibling, Austin

P.S. Don’t get mad at me, you’re the one who wanted detailed files of everyone’s medical history - Austin (again)

P.P.S. I tried to do some of them for you, but Austin threatened to cut my hair off at night… sorry, Will :(  -Kayla, your ACTUAL favorite sibling

“All the Hermes Cabin’s files to fill out… great,” Will groaned, dragging his hands down his face. He grabbed the stack of files, a pen, and a clipboard, then headed back to Nico’s room.

He settled down onto a chair, usually for visitors, across from Nico’s bed. This way, he could still monitor Nico as he filled out paperwork.

The first file’s cover read:

CECIL MARKOWITZ

Will opened the file, scrounging for the next blank page, then filled in the blanks.

Date: 8/4/10

Injury/Sickness: Scrapes on the face and a strained leg muscle

Person(s) in charge: Will Solace

Extra Notes: None

Signature: Will Solace

One down, over thirty more to go… 

Over an hour later, Will finally got to the last one.

A green sticky note was on top that read:

Thought you might want this one -Kayla

The file’s cover read:

NICO DI ANGELO

Will slightly giggled. Kayla always knew what was on his mind. He opened the file, seeing that Kayla had already placed Nico’s initial information sheet with another green sticky note on top.

You’re welcome -Kayla 

Will flipped to the next page, filling in what happened today.

Date: 8/4/10

Injury/Sickness: Lyacon Laceration

Person(s) in charge: Will Solace

Extra Notes: Nightmare later in the night; he smiled at me.

Signature: Will Solace 

Will closed the file, adding it to his complete stack of paperwork.

“Finally done,” Will quietly muttered, slumping back into his chair. He grabbed his bandage out of his pocket and started fiddling with it, not wrapping it this time, just playing with it in between his fingers. 

His eyelids grew heavier, fluttering, until he finally went to sleep.

Chapter Text

~Nico~

As the sun rose, the camp started to glow. Birds started to wake, and the trees said hello.

Nico woke from a gentle slumber. His nightmare shifted during the night. From being in the bronze jar, his mind kept replaying Will healing his arm, though he didn’t know why.

The healer’s touch soothed Nico. His voice flowed like honey, calming his nerves. He hadn’t felt safe in years. The last time was when he first came to Camp Half-Blood, but then it quickly ended.

The first thing Nico saw when he opened his eyes was Will. He was sleeping on a chair, his head dropped low, his arms crossed, quietly snoring.

Again, as if Will were a mind reader, he noticed Nico’s gaze and started to wake.

Nico quickly turned towards the wall, pretending to be asleep.

He could hear Will waking up. “Gods, Ah fell ‘sleep again?” Will asked himself. 

Of course, his accent is peaking through right now. He just had to have a morning voice.

Nico heard Will get up from his seat, his footsteps getting closer towards Nico. The healer put two fingers to Nico’s throat, causing him to flinch.

He suddenly felt Will’s warm breath on his cheek.

“You saw me ’sleep, then decided t’ go back, didn’t ya know?” Will breathed into Nico’s ear.

Nico turned to face Will’s grinning face. “Maybe,” Nico said, his face turning red. 

As Nico sat up, he felt way too tired. “Di Immortales! Oh, I don’t feel so good.”

Will sat down on his wheeled chair next to Nico, instantly slipping into healer mode.

“Symptoms?” Will asked.

“Just tired…and weak,” Nico said, rubbing his temple with a finger.

“Thought so,” Will noted, his accent back to normal. “I have some things to discuss with you, Nico.”

Oh gods, what did he see?

“Last night you had a nightmare,” Will said, but Nico already knew that. “And you subconsciously used your powers.”

“I USED MY POWERS?” Nico practically shouted.

“Shh, the whole camp’s not up yet,” Will chided. “Anywho, I calmed you down, blah, blah, blah, not the point,” Will added.

“Maybe that’s why I dreamed about Will, yeah, definitely,” Nico thought.

“I’ve had a theory,” Will stated, “Since you barely eat—“

“I do eat.”

“No, you don’t,” Will chastised. “The point is, you don’t eat, you're anemically pale, and the symptoms you just described confirmed my suspicion that you’re anemic,” Will stated. “I also have reason to believe you could have Hypoglycemia since you don’t eat frequently, which means—“

“—something bad, you’re going to try to fix it,” Nico interrupted.

Will chuckled. “I’m not going to try, I will fix you up, Nico Di Angelo,” Will spoke with confidence. “But first, I gotta get some food inside you. Anything in particular you desire?”

“Nope.”

“Well then, guess you get the Will special!” Will exclaimed, his hand reaching towards Nico, wanting to pat his knee, but quickly retracted. “I’ll be back soon!” Will exited the room.

Nico’s mind instantly replayed Will’s statement.

“Anywho, I calmed you down, blah, blah, blah, not the point,” Will added.

Of course, that’s why Nico dreamed about him. 

Nico had always had feelings for Will, and this wasn’t the first time Will had calmed him down before.

The first being when they first met, face-to-face. When Nico developed feelings for the boy.

He and Chiron had been arguing, causing Nico to miss the dummy during training, slicing his leg open.

Chiron took him to the infirmary, where Michael Yew was trying to fix his leg.

“Nico, hold still!” Michael said, raising his voice, holding an open bottle of nectar.

“No!” Nico shouted as he kept moving his leg back and forth, a young Will Solace trying to hold his leg.

“Nico, stop moving! I can’t heal your leg if you keep squirming around!”Michael boomed, fed up with Nico.

Nico kept squirming, his blood staining the infirmary floor and Will’s hands.

“Could you please hold still?” Will spoke up. “The nectar might burn a bit, but it’ll heal your leg in no time,” Will said, pleading with Nico, his eyes meeting his.

Nico stopped moving.

He just looked at Will’s eyes. His sun-kissed freckles, his golden locks, his perfect tan. 

Michael poured the nectar, a quick burning sensation, then capped the bottle.

“Done!” Michael said happily. “Thanks for holding his leg down, Will. You’ll be an amazing medic one day.”

“I hope so, Michael,” Will said, his eyes now on Michael’s. “I’ll go get stuff to clean this up, be right back!” Will went to the cabinets searching for cleaning supplies.

“You’re free to go now, Nico,” Michael stated.

“Uh-okay-uh thanks.” And Nico quickly exited The Big House.

He knew they could never be together; Will could never look at him that way. That boy is as straight as a ruler.

He wouldn’t let his heart be broken again, not over another Percy.

A knock on the door brought him back to reality.

Will came back, carrying a tray of scrambled eggs, a slightly-burnt piece of toast, a banana, and a glass of water. Immediately, Nico thought back to World War II.

Though he didn’t have much memory of his time in Venice, he still remembered bits and pieces.

The sulfur smell of the eggs and the burnt edges of toast reminded him of those stale, nasty rations they ate.

Nico gulped.

Will carried the tray towards Nico, placing it on the stand next to Nico’s cot. 

“Sorry about the toast,” Will said, rubbing the back of his neck. “I accidentally burned it. But, I made perfect eggs!” Will exclaimed, handing Nico a fork. 

He immediately sensed Nico’s hesitation.

“Please, Nico,” Will said gently. “You don’t have to finish it all, just eat a bit. Please? It’ll make me feel better.”

Nico sighed, stabbing the plate of eggs with his fork. He took a bite, the texture making him want to heave over.

“Is something wrong with the eggs?” Will asked, concerned.

“No, no, they taste fine,” Nico encouraged. “It just… reminds me of something.”

“Oh, I see, I’ll take note of that next time,” Will stated. Nico was grateful he didn’t push for a reason.

Nico put his fork down on the plate and shifted his attention to the bread.

“Oh gods,” he thought. “Can’t go back, can’t go back.”

“Do you mind if I just go for a walk around for a bit?” Nico asked, praying Will would say yes.

“Of course, Nico,” Will had replied, as if Nico asked to breathe. “You’re not in jail,” he said, laughing. He had gotten up and gone towards the door, holding it open for Nico.

Nico got up from his cot, immediately regretting the decision.

He was shaking and felt dizzy. 

“Will, I don’t feel so—” Nico started to fall.

Will rushed towards Nico, catching him before he hit the ground, gently setting him on the floor, before momentarily joining him.

“Put your head in between your knees like this.” Will demonstrated.

Nico copied Will, feeling a bit better. He wanted to cry.

Suddenly, a warm hand was on his back.

Nico lifted his head, turning to see Will rubbing his palm in circles around Nico’s back.

“No, Nico,” Will said calmly, still rubbing circles onto Nico’s back. “Put your head back in between your knees,” 

Nico complied.

After a while, Will stopped rubbing Nico’s back.

“Feeling better?” Will asked.

“Yeah,” Nico responded dryly.

Will grabbed the glass of water he’d brought in earlier, handing it to Nico. “Drink,” Will ordered. “It’ll help a bit with the dizziness. I’ll be back soon.” 

Will exited the room.

Nico gulped his water, wondering how Will knew about the dizziness.

Will quickly came back, not bothering to knock. In his right hand, he had a juice box. He knelt back onto the floor next to Nico, exchanging the glass of water for juice. 

“This’ll help much better than the water,” Will stated calmly. “Try drinking as much as you can, but don’t drink too fast.”

Nico sipped his juice, orange juice. His favorite.

“Gods, I love orange juice,” Nico said, sipping happily.

Will chuckled.

“How’d you know I was dizzy?” Nico wondered, curious to know how Will spotted it.

“Well, Death Boy,” Will said, grinning, as Nico scowled. “If you’d let me finish my sentence earlier, since you rarely eat, I’d figure you’d have low blood sugar. Shakiness, dizziness, and fainting are all common symptoms of Hypoglycemia, which you just showed me you have.”

“You must be a pretty good doctor.”

“And that’s why I’m head medic,” Will chuckled.  “Now let’s get you back up on the cot, and I’ll bring you some more juice.”

Will offered Nico a hand.

Hesitantly, he took it.

The electric current he felt on Half-Blood Hill and the skeletal butterflies all came rushing back.

Nico settled into the cot, Will took the empty juice box, and headed out the door to bring more.

“Oh, I almost forgot! One more thing,” Will added before leaving. He set the empty juice box on a counter and grabbed a bundle of clothes. “Here,” Will stated, walking back towards Nico, placing the clothes in his lap. “These are for you! Your stitches might get irritated by your shirt, and I didn’t want you in the same clothes that you wore in the battle, not that there’s anything wrong with what you're wearing. It’s just-”

“Thank you, Will.”

“Of course,” Will smiled. “I’ll let you change.” Will exited the room, grabbing the empty juice box, before closing the door.

Nico changed into the clothes Will had gotten him.

The clothes were comfortable, but the feeling and scent of the partially-worn-out hoodie provided Nico with safety, as if being wrapped in a warm, cozy blanket.

“You changed?” Will called, waiting outside the door.

“Yup.”

The door opened, and Will came back in with two more boxes of juice, setting one next to Nico’s cot, the other in Nico’s hand.

“Hope you like my hoodie,” Will chuckled. “Tried to find you something that I thought you’d like.”

Nico’s face turned red.

“THIS IS HIS HOODIE? I’VE BEEN SNIFFING WILL?”

Will noticed Nico’s new strawberry hue, a look of concern on his face.

“Just gonna do a quick check, ” Will said, sitting back on his chair.

“Okay,” Nico responded, now sipping a new drink.

Will held out a finger, “Can you follow my finger?”

Nico followed Will’s finger as he moved it side to side.

Will then brought out a mini flashlight from his pocket.

“What’s that for?” Nico asked.

“Just to check your pupils,” Will answered, his other hand lifting and resting on Nico’s chin. He barely shone the light into Nico’s eyes. Nico flinched.

“Hold still, please,” Will murmured in healer mode.

Will’s touch, warm and soft, caused Nico’s stomach to flip.

“Blink, please,” Will requested, and Nico complied.

“Good,” Will said, placing the flashlight back into his pocket and removing his hand from Nico’s chin.

He missed the warmth.

But almost immediately after, he got it back.

One of Will’s hands gently held one of Nico’s wrists, feeling for a pulse, while the other was on Nico’s forehead, checking for a temperature.

“You should get some more rest,” Will said calmly, as he retracted his hands. “A nap will help your sugar settle completely.”

“I-I’m scared,” Nico admitted, setting down the juice, fidgeting with his ring. “I don’t want another nightmare.”

“Do you want me to stay?” Will offered.

Nico paused. It made him happy to hear that.

“Yes,” he answered back.

Will gave him a soft smile. He pulled the blanket over Nico, and he could feel Will’s hands gently brushing against him as he adjusted the blanket.

Will sat in his chair, not crowding Nico, but still close enough.

Will reached forward, letting Nico notice his move. He brushed a stray hair away from Nico’s face. His warmth lingered on Nico’s cold skin.

“Don’t worry,” Will cooed. “I’ll stay.”

Nico’s eyelids fluttered, letting himself fall asleep.

He himself knew that he’d be safe.

Chapter Text

~Nico~

“Nico,” Will gently said. “Why are you so cold?” Concern growing in his voice. Nico felt the blanket shift. 

“NICO?!” Will screamed. “Oh gods, where’d he go?” Will’s heavy pacing echoed in the room.

“I’m literally right here, Will,” Nico said groggily, as he rubbed the sleep from his eyes.

“AHHH!” Will shrieked, his voice shooting up three octaves. Nico covered his ears with a grimace.

“Oh, thank the Gods, Nico!” Will quickly came back to his side, collapsing onto his chair. “You nearly gave me a heart attack! I thought you had turned into a pillow,” Will said, grasping his chest. 

Nico sat up. 

“Now, why would I do that?”

“I dunno? Maybe you were just too tired, you became one with the pillow!”

Nico just stared.

He noticed Will’s damp hair and different outfit.

“You left,” Nico pointed out.

“I’m sorry, Nico,” Will apologized. “I was wearing my scrubs for like, two days now, and I felt icky and gross, but I was only gone for like 20 minutes, I stayed with you like 30 minutes after you fell asleep, went to my cabin, took a shower, came back, checked if you were awake, and then you know the rest.”

“Thanks for staying, Will,” Nico said.

Will smiled gently. “No problem, Nico. Did you have any nightmares?”

“No, I actually didn’t even dream,” Nico realized.

“Perfect, I’ll add that to your chart: ‘Symptoms improved with the presence of Will Solace being within a five-foot radius.’ Very important.”

“Yeah, but I don’t want an overdose.”

Will laughed, but the sound faded quicker than usual.

A short moment of silence.

“Well, now that you're fully awake, can we talk?” Will asked.

“About what?” Nico questioned.

“Your wrists.”

“No.”

“Yes, Nico,” Will pressed. “Self-harm is a serious thing, Nico. I know, usually people do that as a coping method, but I can help you-”

“No, you can’t.”

“Nico, I understand that sometimes traumatic-”

“No, you don’t understand,” Nico growled, his fingers digging into the blanket. “You don’t understand a damn thing about my life,” Nico’s voice grew, pulling off his blanket.

“Nico.” Will tried calmly. “I’ve had some traumatic experiences as well. I can help you with new coping methods. I understand where you come from-”

“NO YOU DON’T,” Nico boomed, scrambling upright as his fists clenched the white sheets. “Nobody in this camp does. Especially you.”

“Oh, the perfect son of Apollo, the golden boy,” he continued spitefully. “‘I know how you feel, I fell on the ground just yesterday and scraped my knee!’ Oh boo hoo. You haven’t felt what I’ve felt. The horrors I’ve seen. Everyone loves you! Everyone adores you. Even Mr. D has a soft spot for you. Your Chiron’s favorite, probably your dad’s, the whole camp’s favorite! While me? Everyone hates me—they say I’m a freak.”

“Sure, I was welcomed after the Battle of Manhattan, but after a week, people flinched near me. I radiate death and misery. Ahkyls, the Goddess of Misery herself, told me she couldn’t inflict any more sorrow and pain in me; I already have too much,” Nico continued, his voice getting louder and louder. “You,” he said, pointing to Will’s chest. “ You probably haven’t experienced a fraction of what I’ve felt.”

Will suddenly fished a bandage out of one of his pockets. “You see this?” Will asked, his hands shook as he held it up, the bandage fluttering like a heartbeat he couldn’t steady. “This-this is my pain,” His voice cracked. “I cut off my own circulation almost every single hour of the day. All the campers I couldn’t save. I feel their pain. Almost all my siblings died in Manhattan. In a single day, did you know, I was promoted to Head Counselor and Head Medic. I was thirteen then!”

“When I was 10, I was almost killed by a flock of Stymphalian Birds. I almost lost my mom to that. Three years later, I saw campers mauled by them. I had to stand there, helpless. I can’t do anything helpful!” Will was now shouting, his arms flailing in the air. “All I have are these stupid glowing hands. I can’t even shoot a single arrow, while all my siblings could.”

“I have the blood of hundreds on my hands,” Will looked at his palms with disgust. “Just 'cus I was too weak, too slow.”

“Yeah? You say you’re responsible for hundreds of deaths. Well, I’ve killed thousands,” Nico snapped back. “My mother died because my sister and I were alive. My sister died trying to bring me a stupid toy! You want numbers, Will? I’ve killed countless monsters, I’ve even killed humans.”

“When I was transporting the Athena Parthenos, a Roman scout came and threatened to have Reyna executed. He said it was so easy to track us because of me, he said I stink of the Underworld. Just because I was angry, I killed him. Actually, no,” Nico laughed, pain in his voice. “I made him fade from existence. I turned him into nothing. No soul, just…gone.”

“You think self-harm is my biggest problem?” Nico asked, crossing his arms. “Imagine shadow-traveling until you almost become one with the shadows. Imagine starving yourself because food didn't matter in the dark.”

“Months inside the Labyrinth I spent alone, only accompanied by the dead. I spent days in Tartarus, a place no demigod had survived and lived to tell the tale,” Nico continued. A tremor ran through him as the memories came crashing back.

“People fear me. Everyone always says, ‘Oh, look, it’s the Hades kid! He brings death everywhere he goes. Eww, he stinks like the Underworld,’ Nico mocked. “Their instincts tell them I’m not safe, and you know what? They’re right, they should,” Nico’s voice was low as he spoke.

Will took a deep breath.

“Nico, I don’t think you’re unstable.” Will’s voice was soft, barely audible.

“Did you not just hear what I said?” Nico shouted, his voice cracking mid-sentence.

“I tell you the number of things that died because of me, and you don’t think I’m unstable?” Nico asked. “The people I care about always die. They are all gone, because of me.”

Nico lowered his voice. “My father once told me he’d wish for Bianca instead of me. He also once told me that children of his are rarely happy.”

Nico paused, taking a deep breath.

“Sometimes I wish it were me instead of Bianca under that automation’s foot,” Nico admitted. His eyes trailed towards the floor, unable to match Will’s gaze.

Dead silence.

“Nico,” Will said, breaking the silence. “Don’t—Don’t you ever say that.”

“Why not, Will?” Nico asked, deadpanned. “It’s the only truth left.”

Will froze. His mouth slightly parted, a breath stalled in his chest.

“You think you can fix me, but you don’t understand. I’m not someone who gets to be saved,” Nico stated. “You can’t fix what’s already broken.”

Nico reached for the shadows, the darkness curling up his fingertips.

“No, Nico. WAIT!” Will shouted, hands reaching towards Nico.

Too late.

That was the last thing Nico heard before he faded into the shadows.

He was crouched on the porch of Cabin 13.

“Hey, Nico!” A familiar voice called out.

As Nico looked up, fear was instilled in his stomach.

Oh, thank the Gods. It was just Jason.

Jason happily jogged towards Nico.

“I just finished teaching a class in the training arena,” he said calmly, sweat dripping down his forehead, fogging his glasses.

“That’s nice, Jason,” Nico dryly replied, rising. “Look, I’m not in the mood right now to talk. If anyone needs me, just tell them you haven’t seen me or something. I don’t really care, I just- I can’t have people bothering me right now.”

“Uh, okay, Nico,” Jason said, confused. “Just remember if you ever need to talk about any-“

Nico slammed the door, cutting off the conversation.

He could hear Jason finish his sentence, sigh, then walk away.

Once the door slammed shut, slamming himself away from Will and the world, Nico was immediately enveloped in the cabin’s dimly lit embrace. A small tremor ran through him as his gaze was immediately hypnotized by the dresser beside his bedside. 

I’m back, he seemed to whisper. And you always knew it. He wasn’t sure if he was speaking to the drawer, himself, or Bianca.

Gothically draped in a cynical tint of dark-stained wood, the dresser stood still, unmoving and silent, like it had anticipated Nico’s eventual return. In his mausoleum of clawing doubts, Hades’s son approached once again. His steps felt heavy, weighted down as if he were a tortured convict tied to an iron ball and chain.

Nico owned little to nothing. One of the only things inside the drawers was Bianca’s beanie. 

She’d given it to him before leaving for her quest, before she promised to come back, before she died.

Nico grabbed the beanie and sobbed into it.

“Oh, Bianca,” he cried.

“I wish you were still here, I wish you didn’t choose to be reborn and just let me come find you,” he sniffled, wiping his tears away.

He placed the beanie carefully back into its drawer, gently shutting it. In the bottom drawer were blades.

He grabbed one and went to his bed.

Sitting on top of his bed, Nico gripped the blade tight in his fist

“I’ve said too much. He knows I’m a monster. I just lost another person who cared for me.” Nico thought.

“Maybe he didn’t even care for me, all the other campers think I’m weird, maybe he was forced to heal me by Chiron… It doesn’t matter, I’ve lost him now.” Nico gripped the blade even tighter, his blood running down the side of his arm.

“I deserve pain, pain makes it tolerable, it’s what I deserve.” Nico unclenched his fist, taking the blade in his hand.

He lifted the blade. His hand didn’t shake. That scared him more than anything.

He made the first cut.

Chapter Text

~Will~

“OH GODS! No, no, no, no,” Will shouted, as he frantically searched the sheets for Nico.

Nico’s gonna self-harm

“Oh, Nico,” Will barely muttered, grabbing his satchel, filling it with supplies. Then he ran out of the Big House.

Will ran across camp, heading towards Cabin 3.

“They have to be in there,” he thought.

Will anxiously knocked on the door.

“Gods, this better be important,” he heard from inside.

The door opened, revealing Percy Jackson and Annabeth Chase.

“Oh, hey, Will!” Percy greeted.

“Something wrong?” Annabeth asked, reading Will’s face.

“Have you guys seen, Nico?” Will questioned. “We were in the infirmary and he shadow-traveled away.”

“Hey, guys!” Jason interrupted, walking towards the trio. “Whatcha guys up to?” He asked.

“Nico’s missing and we’re trying to help Will find him,” Annabeth stated.

“We are?” Percy asked.

Annabeth lightly slapped his arm.

“Oh yeah, we are,” Percy said, rubbing his elbow.

Jason’s smile disappeared

He knows something

“What do you know, Jason?” Will firmly asked.

“Nothing! I haven’t even seen the guy!” Jason pleaded, raising his hands.

“I can see it in your face,” Will said, lowering his voice. “You’ve seen him, haven’t you?”

Jason stayed silent.

“Jason,” Will forced himself to speak calmly. “Please, I’m begging you. This is really important.”

Their blue eyes had a mental argument.

Will won.

“Okay, but just because I know your intentions are good,” Jason finally said. “He’s inside his cabin, but he said he didn’t want to be bothered.”

“I’m right, he is gonna do it,” Will thought.

“Do you want us to come with you, Will?” Annabeth offered.

“No-No thank you,” Will denied. “I need to do this on my own.”

Annabeth gave him a slight smile and nodded.

“Thanks for your help, guys,” Will called as he rushed towards the Hades Cabin.

As he approached the steps of Cabin 13, a chill ran through his spine.

“Will, brush it off, there are more important things to remember,” he told himself.

Like, Nico.

Will entered the cabin, the dim lights and the cold feeling immediately getting to him.

In the back of the room, on top of a bed, was Nico Di Angelo, blade in hand.

“NICO!” Will shouted, sprinting towards the boy.

Nico looked up, his eyes bloodshot. Blood was dripping down his wrists.

“You’re not Will,” Nico growled. "You're just a figment of my imagination.”

“Nico,” Will said gently, holding his hands up by his face. “I’m real, it’s Will.”

“No, you can’t be,” Nico looked up, pausing his cutting. “I saw the pain in his face when he realized what I was, a monster.” 

“Nico, I don’t think you’re a monster,” Will gently spoke, as he inched closer to the boy.

“You’re just my mind, you’re trying to make me feel better. I saw the hurt in his eyes,” Nico’s own eyes mimicking the pain. “I lost him, lost one of the only people who cared about me.”

Will started to move in.

“Nico, it’s fine, I don’t think you’re a monster,” Will stated. “You haven’t lost me.”

"YES, I HAVE!” Nico screamed. He continued to cut.

Will reached for the blade.

“Go away!” Nico screeched, lifting the blade, slashing through the air in an arch.

A cold metal sting.

Will’s eyes widened, realizing what had just happened.

Nico shot towards Will, touching his cheek.

Will’s blood on Nico’s fingers, the red staining his pale skin.

“I-It’s you,” Nico realized, dropping the blade out of surprise. “I hurt you.”

“No-No, Nico,” Will started to speak. “It’s okay, I can fix it, you didn’t hurt me,” Will’s hands instinctively went towards Nico.

Nico backed away.

“No, NO!” Nico shouted.

A shadow crawled up Nico’s arm.

“Nico, wait!” Will lunged for the boy, but landed face-first onto Nico’s bed,

A faint trail of shadow was left behind.

Nico had left.

“No, not again,” Will cried, grabbing the bed sheet.

“Jason,” he thought. “I need to find him.”

First, he had to get rid of this cut.

Will started to glow, humming a healing hymn of Apollo.

He felt his cheek, now just a scab.

Will exited Cabin 13 and headed for Cabin 1.

“JASON!” Will shouted, banging on the door.

The door immediately opened, and Jason now came into view.

“Is something wrong, Will?” Jason asked.

“You know, Nico, maybe the best out of anyone here,” Will said. “Where would he go, if not in his cabin?”

“Why?”

“Jason, I need to know.”

“Again, why?”

“Jason—“

“No, Will,” Jason said with authority. “Nico is one of my best friends. Anything that concerns him, concerns me.”

“HE’S SELF-HARMING RIGHT NOW, OKAY?” Will shouted, making sure nobody was around to hear him.

Jason paused, his face filled with growing concern.

“He should be in the northern forest, past the ravine.”

“Thank you, Jason,” Will said softly.

“You’re welcome, thank you for telling me,” Jason responded. “Now go, Hurry!” Jason gestured.

Will ran to the forest.

Sitting on a log was a crying Nico.

Will ran to Nico, kneeling beside him.

“I’m sorry,” Nico barely muttered.

“Shh, it’s okay, I fixed myself. I’m fine, Nico,” Will reassured. “I’m only concerned about you. Can I see your wrists?” Will set his palms out.

Will wasn’t sure if Nico would comply, but he did, setting his hands into Will’s.

They passed right through.

Will let out a small gasp, immediately searching through his satchel.

He brought a small piece of medical gum and handed it to Nico.

“Chew,” Will ordered.

Nico complied, though his face showed disgust as he chewed the tar and dirt-flavored gum.

Nico placed his hands back onto Wills, this time resting right on top.

Will took a deep breath in, closed his eyes, and began to sing. He sang a healing hymn, his palms glowing as the soft words flowed out of his mouth.

When he opened his eyes, all that was left on Nico’s wrists were small, brown lines. 

He looked up at Nico, his eyes wide.

“You glow,” Nico pointed out.

“I do,” Will slightly giggled.

Will felt exhaustion roll over him, but hid it from Nico.

Will hesitated, but slightly opened his arms, just enough for Nico to get the memo.

Nico stared, just stared for a while, before hesitantly pulling himself off his log and leaning into Will. Pressing into his warmth.

Will could feel Nico’s head resting on his shoulder, his hands clenched into fists. The medic wrapped his arms around the boy, his thumb slowly rubbing circles into his back.

“Relax, Nico,” Will said softly. “I’ve got you.”

He could feel Nico’s fists loosen, instead sliding down to clutch Will’s shirt.

“I’m sorry for everything!” Nico cried into Will’s shoulder, his head slowly slipping down to his chest. A streak of tears marked Will’s shirt.

“Shh,” Will said, moving a hand to Nico’s head, gently cradling it. “It’s okay, I lashed out my emotions onto you, too.”

“It’s okay, Will,” Nico said, now comforting Will. “You-you’re not a bad healer. You were really brave during both battles.”

Those words brought joy to Will’s heart.

“Thank you, Nico,” Will said. “That means a lot.”

Will could feel Nico smile.

They just sat together like that for a while, embracing each other in the calm forest.

The sun had started to set, meaning they should head back in.

“Nico,” Will murmured. “We need to start heading back now, or else the harpies are gonna rip our heads off,” Will slightly chuckled.

“Okay,” Nico sighed as he let go of Will’s embrace. Nico tried to stand, but he just plopped back down.

“May I?” Will asked, gesturing for Nico to be carried.

“I-I don’t want anyone to see.”

“Nico, I promise you no one is out right now.”

Nico sighed and gave a slight nod.

Will carefully slid his arms under Nico’s thighs, lifting him effortlessly. He adjusted Nico’s balance, careful not to jostle him. Nico wrapped his arms around Will’s neck.

“You’re heavier than you seem,” Will teased, though for him, Nico was as light as a feather.

“Shut up,” Nico said, muffled, as his head was on Will’s shoulder.

The camp now glowed in the evening sun.

Will could feel Nico’s tension as they walked out of the forest.

“Don’t worry, I’ve got you,” Will assured.

Nico’s tension dissolved.

“I-I believe you,” Nico muttered.

The sunset’s orange hue shimmered around the Big House as the two boys headed towards the sunset.

Chapter Text

~Nico~ 

Will gently set Nico down on his cot, carefully laying him down. He tucked Nico in, gently adjusting the blanket.

“You don’t have to treat me like a baby.” Nico huffed childishly.

“Well, right now you are one,” Will laughed.

Will finished tucking Nico in and headed towards the door.

“You’re leaving?” Nico asked dejectedly.

“Don’t worry,” Will said, ”I’ll be right back.”

Yeah right.

Will left the room and moments later came back with a blanket.

He sat down in one of the corner chairs, wrapping himself up like a burrito.

“What are you doing?” Nico questioned.

“Well, isn’t it obvious?” Will asked. “I’m staying with you.”

“You look like a burrito.”

“Be grateful I’m staying, Di Angelo.” Will joked.

Will then fell fast asleep.

Nico observed the boy; he started to snore, but not obnoxiously; it was almost cute.

Nico himself felt the exhaustion approach, but realized:

“Tomorrow is my last day. My last day with him.”

Sorrow washed over Nico, making him curl up on his cot.

He fell asleep with a single tear rolling down his face.

~Will~

Will woke earlier than usual.

It was 7:00 A.M. The sun was barely above.

He looked forward to seeing a sleepy Nico, curled up in his cot. Gods, he looked cute. 

Will unraveled himself from his blanket, setting it on his chair. He went to Nico, placing two fingers to his throat. For once, Nico’s heartbeat was steady. That put a smile on Will’s face.

Will knew Nico had past trauma, but yesterday, when Nico blurted it all out, he was shocked. He couldn't believe the sleeping boy in front of him had endured so much pain and still helped others. That made him love him even more.

Will himself has never even confessed to his wrist wrapping to anyone, only to Nico. Others noticed, but they shrugged it off. “Oh, he’s a healer! He’s just practicin’!” But, it's always something deeper. And that’s what he lets them believe. It’s better that way.

He was sad that this was Nico’s last day in the infirmary. He had to find a way to spend time with him afterwards, but he just didn’t know how.

  In just six (or seven) hours, Nico would be gone.

Will went back to the chair and just looked out the window.

7:30 A.M. was when Nico finally woke.

“What time is it?” Nico asked groggily, rubbing his eyes.

“7:30,” Will replied.

“I’m going back to sleep.”

Nico passed out again.

8:30 A.M. Nico got up again.

“How about now?” Nico asked.

“8:30.”

“Eh, good enough.”

Will made his way to Nico’s cot, sitting on his chair.

“So, are you excited to get out of here?” Will asked with fake enthusiasm.

“Yeah,” Nico responded.

That single word made Will’s heart shatter.

“In just 3 and a half hours,” Will lazily giggled.

“Yeah…” Nico replied.

“Are you excited for some of your old friends to come?” Will asked.

“What?” 

“Remember, the Romans and Chiron said each camp would be welcome to visit on the weekend?” Will reminded.

“Oh, yeah,” Nico said sheepishly. “I’m excited to see my sister.”

“That’s nice.”

Silence.

“I’ll—uh—go get you something to eat,” Will said, breaking the silence. He exited the room. Nico dropped his outreached hand.

He speed-walked to the Strawberry Fields.

“Maybe when I get to know him better, I can start giving him some actual food. Today, I’ll just start with fruit,” He thought.

The Demeter kids made sure Camp-Half-Blood produced the sweetest, organic strawberries in the western hemisphere.

He carefully plucked a few, setting them into his hands like a bowl.

“This should help with Nico’s hypoglycemia,” Will said to himself, then rushed back to the Big House.

Will entered Nico’s room, where he saw Nico just staring at the ceiling.

“Hey, Nico! I’m back!"

Nico jerked and turned his attention towards Will.

“This should help your hypoglycemia, and-”

“Okay, Will, you don’t need to start rambling about my health this early in the morning.” Nico deadpanned.

“Sorry,” Will said as he sat in his chair. He held out the strawberries towards Nico.

Nico reached out but retracted his hand, wincing.

Nico sighed. “My wrist aches.”

“Sorry, my magic could only do so much before it gets to me and I pass out,” Will stated. “Do you mind if I uh—” 

Will gestured using his chin to the strawberries.

Nico sighed.

“Just don’t make it weird.”

Will adjusted his hands, tilting the strawberries to one hand. He grabbed one on top and lifted it towards Nico’s mouth.

“Open wide,” Will sang.

Nico scowled, but opened his mouth.

Will put the strawberry in Nico’s mouth, and Nico bit down, leaving Will with the leaves, which he quickly discarded.

Both their faces matched the strawberries.

At last, the only thing left in Will’s hands was the red stains of the strawberry’s juice.

9:30 A.M., the clock on the wall read.

Will went to the sink, washing his hands.

Only two and a half hours left.

A knock on the door grabbed both boys’ attention.

Kayla emerged, her hair tied up in a messy bun. “Will, someone wants to see you.”

Will was mad; he didn’t want to leave Nico with such limited time left.

“I’ll be right back, Nico,” Will sighed, exiting the room, shutting the door behind him.

“So who wants to see me, Kayla?” Will asked.

“Jason Grace,” Kayla calmly stated.

Of course he does.

“I was on my way to archery practice when he asked where you were,” Kayla explained. “So, I led him to the infirmary.”

“Thanks, Kayla,” Will said. “You can go back to the archery range now.”

Kayla smiled, nodded, and then headed towards the door.

Sitting on a chair, Will spotted Jason Grace.

He gave a slight nod. “Jason.”

“Will.” Jason returned his nod.

“Something wrong?” Will asked. “Glasses the wrong prescription?”

“I think you know, Will.”

Will sighed.

“Found Nico, healed him, and brought him back to the infirmary. He just ate breakfast, he’s resting right now,” Will stated.

“Thank the Gods he’s alright,” Jason let out a held-in breath. “Can I see him?”

“Not right now, Jason,” Will said. “He’s in a vulnerable state right now, and I’m pretty sure he doesn’t want you to know that he—you know.”

Jason nodded. “I understand. Thanks for updating me, Will.”

“Of course.”

Jason got up and exited the building.

A new problem occurred.

“WILLLLLLLLLL!”

Drew Tanka burst through the doors, yelling at the top of her lungs.

“Will,” she cried. “I burned my finger on my curling iron; it hurts.”

Will let out an exasperated sigh. “Let me see,” he said as he took her hand, and she posed as if getting a manicure.

A little burn was on her thumb.

“Looks like a minor first-degree burn,” Will stated. “Go sit on a cot, I’ll go bring a tray.”

Drew sat down and crossed her arms. “FIRST-DEGREE? It feels like a third-degree. Will! It burns!” She pouted.

“Drew, it’s fine, here I can show you,” Will said exasperated, as he set the tray down and snapped on a pair of gloves. He took her hand in his, using one hand to support her wrist, the other to maneuver her thumb, gently pressing around the inflicted area. She lightly winced.  “You see? No blisters.”

“But it burns like Tartarus!”

“Can you wiggle your fingers?” He asked.

Drew’s fingers did a little dance.

“See, you still have mobility, no blisters, and you barely even flinched when I touched it,” he stated.

Will grabbed a sterile piece of gauze and headed towards the sink. He held the gauze under running water and wrung it out until it was damp, then headed back to Drew.

He cupped her wrist with one hand and pressed the cool gauze lightly with the other.

“It’s cold!” Drew inhaled sharply.

“It’s cool,” Will corrected. “It’ll help with the heat and swelling.”

“Be gentle!”

“I am being gentle.”

He held the gauze there, every few minutes, re-dampening it, then reapplying it.

Will checked under the gauze. “Redness is going down, I’ll start putting aloe on it.”

“Will it hurt, Will?” Drew asked with puppy eyes.

“Yes, it’s going to burn like The Phlegethon,” Will sighed sarcastically, drying Drew’s thumb with a new piece of gauze.

“Can you numb me then?”

“Drew, I’m being sarcastic; it’s just going to be cold.”

Drew huffed.

Will squeezed a small amount of Aloe onto his index finger, then used his other hand to hold Drew’s wrist.

Drew dramatically jerked her wrist. But Will’s grasp was firm.

“Hold still, please,” Will asked, applying the aloe in a circular motion.

“Wow, Will,” Drew said, smirking. “Who taught you how to caress a girl’s hand like that?”

“It’s called medicine, Drew,” Will deadpanned. “Do you want treatment or not?”

“Mhmm,” she leaned in slightly. “This feels good.”

“It’s aloe, you can go ask Miranda if you want more.”

“Oh, but it feels so nice from you.”

Will whipped his finger on a cloth and let the aloe settle in.

He grabbed a non-stick gauze pad and placed it directly over the burn. He then grabbed two strips of medical tape then pressed them gently over the pad.

“You're so good with your fingers…” Drew flirted.

“Wiggle your thumb,” Will ordered, avoiding Drew’s comment.

She wiggled her thumb.

“Good,” Will stated, removing his gloves, placing them on the dirty tray. “Keep it clean and dry.” He handed Drew a mini bottle of aloe. “Reapply this a couple of times a day. Don’t peel the pad off, let it fall naturally.”

“Wow, Will, I feel like a pampered kitty,” she purred.

“You can go now.”

“I’ll see you around, Will,” she giggled, skipping away.

Will sighed, then started to clean up and disinfect the area.

Finally, back to Nico.

10:30 A.M. 

One and a half hours left.

Will opened the door, seeing an irritated Nico, tapping a non-existent watch.

“Thirty minutes, Solace,” he said. “What happened to be right back?”

“Drew came in with a burn.”

“Drew Tanaka?”

“Yeah, my ex..” Will said. He jolted forward in a gagging motion, his hand stretched in front of him as if to catch his flippant gesture.

Nico’s face shifted.

“Oh, I see..”

“You cold?” Will asked.

“No.”

“You sure?”

“I’m fine.” Nico's voice went quiet.

Silence.

11:00 A.M.

One hour left.

“You’re distracted,” Nico pointed out. “You keep looking at the clock.”

“Just… thinking about the time, you’re leaving in an hour.”

“Long time.”

“Not really, Nico.”

Silence.

11:30 A.M.

Thirty minutes left.

“I gotta do a last-minute check,” stated Will. He went to a nearby cabinet and produced a stethoscope. “Could you lift your shirt?” Will placed the earpieces in his ears.

Nico lifted his hoodie and shirt, just slightly, just as before.

Will slid his hand up Nico’s shirt and then placed the diaphragm to his heart.

“Deep breaths,” he ordered.

Bum, Bum. Bum, Bum. 

It was the sound of Nico’s heart, but also the sound of the seconds ticking away.

“Normal heart rate,” Will proclaimed, removing the diaphragm and his hand from Nico. “You can put your shirt back down now.”

Will whipped out a portable cuff, placing it on Nico's wrist. He then placed the back of his hand onto Nico’s forehead. 

“Normal temperature, normal blood pressure," he noted.

“Nico, will I see you at lunch?” Will asked.

“Uh, I don’t know,” Nico replied, “I don’t want to sit alone at the Hades Table.”

An idea formed in Will’s head.

“I can change that.”

“How?”

12:00 P.M.

“It’s noon, you can go now,” Will noted. “Meet me at the front of the Big House in thirty minutes, and I’ll tell you how,” he grinned.

“Okay, bye, Will,” Nico said, and he exited the room.

“See you soon,” he thought and started to plan.

Chapter Text

~Nico~

It felt good to be back in Cabin 13.

The too-clean aesthetic was no more, the scent of sterile lemon, gone. But the view of Will was gone as well.

Will’s devious smile was imprinted in Nico’s mind.

How was he gonna pull off this stunt?

It was 12:20.

Nico sighed, hopped off his bed, and headed towards the Big House.

Nico fiddled with his ring the whole way there.

Bianca had given it to him…

When the Big House’s porch came into view, Nico saw a grinning Will Solace, leaning on the railing.

“Your smile scares me,” Nico said.

Will grinned harder.

“Well, this smile,” Will pointed towards his face. “It's going to help us BIG time.”

Nico stepped up the stairs and joined Will.

“Now here’s ‘My Grand Plan,’” Will spread his arms out in a gesture. “You tell Chiron you have a mood disorder, like you need to stay at the Apollo table, just ad lib.”

“What’s ad lib?”

“Improvise.”

Nico sighed. “Okay, but how is that…” Nico gestured to Will’s face, “gonna help me,” Nico pointed to himself, “not sit alone?”

“No one can resist my smile.”

Will flashed his bright teeth even harder. There was a haughty, prideful look grinning in every angle of his expression. Usually, Nico would scoff at this, but instead curved his lips and playfully swatted at him.

“Oh, put it down,” Nico scoffed, stifling a laugh.

Will laughed it off.

“Come on, let's go!” Will led the way inside.

They snaked their way through the Big House into Chiron’s office.

“Good Afternoon, Chiron!” Will called, waving while flashing his golden-boy smile.

“Ah, Mr. Solace, and Mr. Di Angelo,” Chiron acknowledged. “What can I do for you?”

“Chiron,” Will said, “over the past few days, I’ve been monitoring Nico in the infirmary, to help him recover after the battle. Through my observations, Nico must sit with me at the Apollo Table.” A look of concern grew on Will’s face.

“Why is it, may I ask?” Chiron questioned.

“He has a mood disorder,” Will stated calmly. “I need to be able to monitor it at all times, and if not me, one of my siblings.”

Nico hated lying to Chiron—but Gods—Will did it flawlessly.

“Is this true, Nico?”

“Yeah,” Nico said. “When I was alone for the past couple of weeks, strange things happened. Cracks open in the floor, which, as you know, has happened here before. Zombies crawl out and start roaming around… I can’t control it.”

“I see…” Chiron noted.

“Plus, I have a note from my doctor.”

Will raised his hand. “I’m his doctor.”

Chiron just stared.

“He can prove it!” Will exclaimed, “We’ll show you outside.”

The three exited the Big House.

Nico distanced himself about six or seven feet away, then started twitching.

“Oh gods,” he said, pouting.

He pushed out his hands, calling skeletons and zombies to rise from the earth.

A faint rumble shook beneath his boots.

“See!” Will shouted, running towards Nico.

As Will came closer, Nico slowly willed the earth back to normal, retracting the undead back six feet under.

Will put his arm around Nico and start rubbing his shoulder.

Nico almost flinched, but he didn’t.

“You see? He needs someone near him!” Will said dramatically.

He kept rubbing circles in Nico’s arm, the warmth even seeping through Nico’s hoodie, penetrating the cold.

Nico’s lips twitched upwards.

Chiron placed his head in his hand.

“Just, do whatever you need, Mr. Solace, to keep Mr. Di Angelo in check.”

Will smiled with a bright, warm smile, bright enough to light up Cabin 13.

“Thank you, Chiron,” Will said. He dropped his arms from Nico. The warmth was gone, back to cold. “I’ll make sure no undead come into this camp!” Will said proudly.

“Yes, yes, very well. You may go now,” Chiron hid his annoyance.

The two boys walked towards the Dining Pavilion.

“Told you it would work,” Will laughed, gently bumping Nico’s good shoulder with his own.

Nico scowled, rubbing his arm.

“Are you trying to make my arms both injured?”

“Who? Me?” Will said dramatically, putting his hand over his heart. “I’m offended if you ever think that.”

Nico rolled his eyes.

“Excellent ad lib, the twitching was an excellent touch,” Will giggled.

“Can’t believe it actually worked.”

“As I said,” Will stated. “No one can resist this,” and Will smiled at Nico.

Though it was just Will joking around, it made Nico’s heart flutter.

Nico scoffed.

“Well, thanks, Solace. For…accompanying me,” Nico muttered.

Will gave Nico a smile that warmed his heart.

“Anytime, Nico.”

Will was right…no one could resist his smile.

Nico’s lips twitched slightly.

They reached the Dining Pavilion.

“Now come on! Let’s go eat, I’m STARVING,” Will said.

At the entrance were long buffet-style tables, except no food.

Just bronze goblets and plates.

Will grabbed a goblet and plate, and Nico did the same.

As they walked through the building, eyes locked on them.

“Nico?” One whispered, a freckled-faced ginger from the Aphrodite cabin. “Who would’ve guessed… that…” 

“Not me, no,” another whispered back, her eyes roving all over Nico’s skin shamelessly. “It’s… strange. Is he the one…?” 

“Ay! You’re pushin’ it a lil’ bit far, don’t you think? Can’t you see he’s a-lookin’ right towards us?! You Aphro-dites and… and Demet-ers… all of ya!” From the corner of his eye, Nico saw a ginger-haired strand twirl between the girl’s finicky fingers while the accented one quietly complained with a huff.

Rude… yet, how can I blame them?

Will strode along the cobbled path with his shoulders back and his chin tall, his posture as if no one could ever make him less fearless. Nico couldn’t help but watch him glide, watch as he ignored all the staring effortlessly. 

You don’t think it's a pity, do you?

Nico’s head snapped up, but he couldn’t pinpoint a voice. He frantically searched the bushes and the huddled groups around him and Will. Who? Not the blond head, nor the ginger… He wanted to shout at them to just go away: just leave me alone! His doubts, his fears, his loves.

“Do you think he’s noticed?” A boy whispered, shying away from his unearthly gaze. His body contorted and twisted as it did so, his shadows—their shadows—curling and unraveling in between themselves. “Gods, hush… hush it! Who’s said he’s a twink? He’s not one—no, he ain’t!”

“You know, Will’s gotta be thinking about it… I mean, I’m thinking about it…”

Why do they all think Will’s doing him a favor? Nico Di Angelo doesn’t need a favor; he doesn’t want one, nor has he ever needed one! Bianca was proof of it. He tensed just thinking of the stupid toy and the godforsaken beanie.

Finally, they reached the Apollo Table.

“Hey, guys!” Will said, happily sitting across from Austin and Kayla. “Well? Aren’t you going to sit?” Will asked Nico, gesturing to the space next to him.

Nico shuffled to his spot, right next to Will. Even just sitting near him, Nico could feel Will’s warmth rippling towards him.

“Well, it’s nice to finally meet you!” Kayla, who sat right across from him, exclaimed. “I’m Kayla, and this weirdo is Austin,” she nudged Austin’s shoulder.

“No, she’s the weird one, I’m the cool one,” Austin said smugly.

Kayla stuck her tongue out at him.

Austin did it right back.

“Don’t mind them,” Will waved off. “Let’s eat!”

On Will’s plate, a fork and knife appeared, as well as honey-glazed chicken and roasted vegetables.

On Kayla’s, a fork appeared with a grilled chicken salad with feta.

On Austin’s, no utensils appeared, but a slice of Margherita pizza with a side of smiley fries poofed onto his plate.

You know, some McDonald's would be good right now. Nico thought.

Instead, his plate shifted into a bowl, filling itself with pasta and a spoon hanging from the ledge.

Pastina in Brodo.

A light broth with tiny star-shaped pastas caught all his attention.

His mom used to make it for him and Bianca when they were sick.

It smelled just like hers.

He took a bite.

Tasted like hers, too.

“What’s that?” Will asked.

“Pastina in Brodo,” Nico replied. “My mom used to make it.”

“Aww, that’s so sweet,” Kayla said, looking up at Nico as she ate her salad.

Nico shrugged, staring into the broth so she wouldn’t see the way his eyes softened.

“That one’s shaped like the sun!” Will pointed out excitedly

A singular misshapen star resembled the sun; it drifted in the corner along with a regular star.

“The Sun and The Star,” Will noted.

Just like them, the sun and the star, both stars, both never together. Will and Nico, both demigods, could never be together. 

That made Nico frown.

“You know they’re both stars, right?”

Will just laughed, his perfect teeth glistening from the sun’s rays.

Their goblets had now filled up.

Kayla’s filled with mint and lemon water, Austin’s with strawberry-lemonade, Nico’s with orange juice, and Will’s with apple juice.

“You drink apple juice?” Nico asked.

Will took a sip of his drink. “Yeah, it’s one of my favorites,” Will noted. “Why?”

“It’s just ironic, you know, ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away,’ that saying?” Nico answered.

“You know, I never thought about that!” Will exclaimed.

Austin cleared his throat.

“So I guess none of you want to admire MY beautiful fries, smiling at me, BEGGING me to be eaten,” Austin said dramatically.

Kayla grabbed a fry and shoved it in her mouth.

“There!” She exclaimed, talking with her mouth full. “Their life’s mission is complete, now SHUT UP!”

Austin gave her the side-eye.

They ate in a peaceful silence

When they were done, the goblets and plates vanished, as if never there.

Austin and Kayla waved goodbye as they headed back to Apollo Cabin.

It was just Will and Nico.

“Don’t you love how our schedules are suspended right now, because of the whole war?” Will asked.

“I guess.”

“I can’t wait for Capture the Flag tomorrow—maybe not for how many injured campers—but I’m excited to see who wins!” Will exclaimed.

“Yeah, what do you even do?” Nico asked, realizing Will never plays.

“I just stay near the Creek, you know where we set up the medic station? I just wait for people to come, or listen to whatever Chiron wants me to do,” Will said.

“That must be boring.”

“Yeah, especially since I won’t have Kayla and Austin with me,” Will stated.

“Why not?”

“Well,” Will started, “most of the time they help out, but with the Romans coming, they wanted a new challenge. So, I persuaded Chiron to let them play, and that I’d call for them if I really needed help.”

Nico just stared.

“That’s…really nice of you,” Nico replied. He was amazed by how selfless Will Solace was.

“I guess, but they’re my siblings. They may annoy me to death, but I still love them,” Will shrugged.

Will stood up and dusted off his shorts.

“Guess we should probably go now,” Will stated. “See you tomorrow, Nico!” Will waved goodbye.

Nico did a small wave back, then headed towards his cabin, feeling warmth in his chest, having nothing to do with the sun.

He didn’t mind it at all.

Chapter Text

~Will~

Will woke up, still smiling from yesterday.

NICO DI ANGELO COMPLIMENTED HIM.

“Okay, Will we need to talk.” He turned over to his side, seeing Kayla and Austin looming over him.

“Di Immortales!” Will shrieked. “What could you possibly need to talk to me about this early in the morning?”

“Let’s move to the couch,” Austin suggested.

Will sighed, got out of bed, and the trio headed towards the couch.

Two plush, warm-white couches were in the center of the cabin, in between them lay a circular golden rug, the tassels fanning out to resemble a sun.

Austin and Kayla sat on one couch, while Will sat on the other.

“So,” Austin started, “we’ve noticed you’ve been acting kind of strange-“

“-different,” Kayla corrected.

“Whatever,” Austin waved off. “The point is, you’ve not been your usual self, ESPECIALLY around Nico.”

Will turned red.

“You have a crush on him, don’t you?” Kayla suspected.

Will gulped.

“I KNEW IT!” Kayla exclaimed. “Oh, Will!” She got up and sat next to Will, hugging him. “I’m so happy you’ve found love again.”

“You, you guys are okay with that?” Will asked, now returning Kayla’s embrace.

“Of course, Will!” Austin stated. “We want you to be happy, and you seem really happy right now,” Austin grinned.

Will glared at him.

“Well, thanks, guys,” Will said sheepishly, out of Kayla’s embrace, rubbing the back of his neck. “I’m gonna go get ready, grab Nico, and then let’s go get some breakfast!”

“Sounds like a plan!” Kayla exclaimed.

Will got up and headed towards his dresser.

Will wore his favorite outfit.

His usual tan cargo shorts, a camp t-shirt, and a green plaid linen overshirt. He added the many bracelets he’s collected over the years to the top of his look. And of course, he shoved his bandage in his pocket. 

His bandage, his sign of pain. 

Fortunately, he also wrapped it when thinking, or when his hands needed something to do, not as tightly, of course, but still, with noticeable pressure.

As Will approached the Hades Cabin, the cold aura of the area sent shivers up his spine. He knocked on the door, and to his surprise, it immediately flung open.

Nico Di Angelo was fully dressed and ready.

“Breakfast?” Nico asked.

“How’d you-“

“I figured, plus there was probably no way of getting out of it, you’d bring up something about my health,” Nico grumbled.

Will was shocked.

“So are we going?” Nico asked.

“Yeah!” Will said recovering from his shock. “Let’s go!”

The morning was peaceful, and their walk to the infirmary was even better.

They walked in silence until Nico broke it.

“Would you like any help preparing for Capture the Flag?” Nico asked.

Will’s heart soared.

Nico wanted to help him.

“That’s so thoughtful of you to ask!” Will practically shouted. “But, I wouldn’t want to take away your time from your friends visiting! Just go enjoy yourself, Nico, I’ll cash in your help another day.”

“I don’t want to know what that means.”

Will grinned.

They reached the dining pavilion, grabbed their plates and goblets, then headed towards the Apollo Table.

Will has noticed how yesterday at lunch and dinner, people were giving Nico weird looks. Of course, people would stare at Nico; they were probably frightened of his awesome powers…but why did they stare at him?

Was his shirt weird, have a stain? Was he glowing?

But either way, they shouldn’t be staring like that—they were just walking to get food, not march down to Tartarus…that’d be crazy.

Kayla waved at them, and Austin grinned.

They sat down at the table, the plates already summoning food.

On his own, scrambled eggs, waffles with syrup and blueberries, with a side of green grapes appeared.

Kayla's formed Greek yogurt, topped with honey and oats, and some fresh berries.

On Austin’s appeared a stack of chocolate-chip pancakes, with some extra-crispy bacon.

Nico’s formed a small croissant, and some honeycrisp apple slices.

They all dug in, and even Nico ate a majority of his food, bringing a smile to Will’s face.

“Campers!” Chiron announced, entering the pavilion.

“As you know, the Romans may occasionally now visit on weekends, so tonight, our capture the flag game will include three more participants: Reyna Avila Ramírez-Arellano, Frank Zhang, and Hazel Levesque,” Chiron announced.

Will and his siblings were already informed of this when Chiron asked for medics, and Nico, as Will spilled the beans yesterday.

“If Percy Jackson, Annabeth Chase, Jason Grace, Piper McLean, and Nico Di Angelo could please meet me in front of the Big House at 9:00 A.M., that would be most appreciated,” Chiron stated. “That is all! Enjoy the rest of your day, campers.”

It was 8:50.

“Guess I should go now,” Nico said, taking one last sip of his orange juice. “Bye,” he said.

Nico walked away, making Will’s smile turn upside down.

“You need to make a move, Will,” Kayla whispered, hunched over the table.

“Yeah! You’re not gonna get him if you don’t spend more time with him!” Austin whispered-shouted, joining Kayla hunched over on the table.

“Maybe you guys are right,” Will whispered. “Oh gods! I gotta head to the infirmary for my shift!” Will shouted.

“See you guys later!” He called, waving to his siblings, and ran to the infirmary.

~Nico~

When Nico got to the Big House, he saw Annabeth and Piper sitting on the porch steps making conversation, while Percy and Jason were playing a game of sticks.

“HAH!” Percy exclaimed.

“Well, take THIS!” Jason shouted.

“NO! WAIT, I TAKE IT BACK. I WANT TO REDO MY MOVE!”

“NO TAKE-BACKS!”

“Is a new war starting over here?” Nico asked as he approached the group.

“Nope, just Percy and Jason being competitive, as always,” Annabeth stated.

“You know what? Who cares? I love you, bro,” Percy said, putting his arm around Jason's shoulder.

“Me too,” Jason said, doing the same to Percy.

“And then immediately making up right after,” Piper noted.

“Well, where's Chiron?” Nico asked.

“He was here at 9, a minute ago, and explained to wait here for the Romans to come,” Annabeth explained.

Suddenly, a gust of wind approached, and out came Hazel, Frank, and Reyna, riding Arion.

Reyna hopped off, and Frank soon followed, then Hazel.

“Thanks, Arion,” Hazel told the horse. “I’ll be sure to give you plenty of nuggets when you come back!”

The horse neighed, then zoomed away.

“That horse has such a potty mouth,” Percy half-whispered to Annabeth.

Hazel turned and saw Nico.

“Nico!” She shouted, running towards her brother, encasing him in a hug.

He kissed the top of her head. “Good to see you too,” Nico replied.

“Di Angelo,” Reyna nodded.

“Reyna,” Nico nodded back.

“Hi guys!” Frank said and encased the eight demigods in a group hug.

Though everyone was back together, Leo was still missing, and everyone knew that.

“So, guys, I was thinking,” Percy started.

“Dangerous,” Annabeth remarked.

Percy kissed the top of her head.

“Anywho, I was thinking we should play a game of volleyball! You know, a little friendly competition!” Percy exclaimed.

“Actually, not a bad idea,” Jason said, surprised.

“And I already have teams!” Percy said excitedly. “Me, Annabeth, Jason, and Piper versus Nico, Reyna, Frank, and Hazel.”

“I can work with that,” Reyna replied.

“Okay, then! Let’s go!” Percy shouted, leading the way to the volleyball court.

In between the Big House and the canoe lake lies a sandy beach volleyball court.

They split up into their teams, with Nico’s team starting the match.

“Okay 0-0!” Hazel called and served the ball.

The point surprisingly lasted a while, occasionally hearing “MINE” or “I GOT IT” from Percy and Jason.

As the ball barely tipped over the net, Percy and Jason both lunged for it.

The two boys’ shoulders bumped mid-air, throwing Percy off balance.

Percy twisted his body, avoiding Jason’s, using his left hand to catch himself on the sand. 

He looked like a human-snapped tumbleweed.

“I’m fine,” Percy said, standing up, brushing the sand off his pants. He winced as he did so.

“You sure?” Jason asked.

“Yup, totally! Amazing! Can’t even feel it look-“ Percy winced as he moved his wrist.

“We should probably take you to the infirmary,” Annabeth said.

“Jason, you and Annabeth go take Percy to the infirmary,” Piper stated.

“Okay, let’s go, Percy,” Jason said, pushing Percy with Annabeth towards the Big House.

“Come on! I’ve had paper cuts worse than this!” Percy complained.

Reyna muttered under her breath, “Most dramatic demigod alive.”

“And stupidest,” Nico added, causing the remaining demigods to laugh uncontrollably.

Even Nico joined in.

~Will~

Will was organizing first aid kits, preparing for capture the flag, when suddenly, the doors of the infirmary swung open.

“Sorry to bother you, Will,” Annabeth apologized. He turned around to see Jason and Annabeth, surrounding a pouting Percy Jackson.

“I hurt my wrist,” Percy said, pouting.

“Go sit on a cot,” Will ordered, pausing his work, stepping out from behind the counter, and going towards Percy.

“Alright, let’s take a look,” Will said.

Percy extended his hand to Will, dramatically wincing as he did so.

“Relax your hand, Percy,” Wil said. “I’m just going to feel around. Tell me if it hurts.” Will gently took Percy’s hand, rotating it slightly.

“Not bad,” Percy muttered.

“Okay, bend your wrist down slowly,” Will ordered.

As Percy complied, he started to wince.

“Yup, that hurts,” Percy said, stating the obvious.

“Mhm,” Will hummed. “And this?” He pressed lightly against the tendons.

Percy sucked in a breath but stayed still. “Uncomfortable. But, like…tolerable. Ish.”

That’s pretty mild,” Will concluded. “You didn’t sprain anything seriously. You just jammed it by trying too hard.”

“Thank you, Will,” Jason said, crossing his arms. “I told you I had it, Percy! It was literally right in front of me.”

Percy stuck his tongue out at Jason.

“It just needs a wrap,” Will stated, quickly ending the boys’ argument and grabbing a roll of Ace bandage.

“Wow, that’s old school,” Percy blinked. “So, no ambrosia or nectar?”

“It’s a light sprain, Percy,” Will said, starting to wrap the bandage neatly around his wrist with practiced ease. “You don’t need divine intervention, you need common sense.”

Annabeth nodded. “Finally. A doctor with real authority.”

Will tightened the bandage enough for compression, but not discomfort. “Just keep this on for the next hour. I’ll get you some ice, and you’ll want to do that for ten minutes. And no playing for at least-“

Percy gave him sea-green puppy eyes.

Will sighed. “-twenty minutes, but if I catch a word or see that you spiked using that hand, I’m personally benching you.”

Percy started to smile, a smile of a plan.

“Oh gods,” Jason said, pinching the bridge of his nose.

“Will, how about you come with us?” Percy offered. “We could use a medic on stand-by when I defeat the other team.”

Annabeth smacked her forehead.

“It’s okay, “ Will started,” I wouldn’t want to-“

Chiron trotted into the infirmary.

“What’s happening? Did someone get mortally wounded?” Chiron asked.

“No, sir,” Percy responded. “We were just playing volleyball, I hurt my wrist, and I was just offering for Will to come and be on stand-by… for when I win.”

“What an excellent idea, Mr. Jackson!”

Will stared. “But sir-“

“Go get some first-aid kits and head back out with Mr. Jackson, Miss. Chase, and Mr. Grace.” Chiron ordered.

“Yes, sir,” Will said, not wanting to disobey Chiron.

Chiron trotted out of the infirmary.

“Let me go get my satchel and some ice for your wrist, Percy,” Will said, heading back behind the counter. He used the ice machine, making a small ice pack for Percy.

“Put this on your wrist,” Will ordered, handing the pack to Percy. He then grabbed three kits, a lot of bandages, and other supplies, placing them into his satchel.

“Why do you need so much stuff?” Percy asked, dumbfounded.

“How long have you guys been playing for?” Will asked.

Percy looked at Annabeth. She sighed.

“About one to two minutes,” she answered.

“That’s why,” Will responded.

“Probably a good idea,” Jason muttered.

“Okay, then let’s go!” Percy shouted, pumping his fist into the air.

As they walked, Will realized something:

Nico’s going to be there.

He walked with a purpose.

Chapter Text

~Will~

Percy marched towards the group, like a soldier returning from battle. With a wave of his royal palms, the Poseidon boy bounced towards the sandy court, singing his praises: “Have no fear, Percy Jackson is here!” 

Annabeth let out a tired, yet amused sigh as she ushered him off his feet to hurry on. Will lingered on the sidelines, watching them with his own thoughts. His gaze wandered to the solemn boy beside the chaos, and briefly, his gaze met Nico’s. 

Will had to look away to hide how the tips of his ears blushed. But he was sure Nico noticed.

He rushed over to the picnic table once the game started, promising to take no part in their mess other than to act as a medic.

“1-0!” Hazel called, starting the point.

Will started to unpack his things, turning the wooden picnic table into a makeshift medical center.

Will heard stomping behind him and turned around to see Percy holding up his other hand.

“So I spiked with the other hand…” Percy said.

“Sit down,” Will said, taking Percy’s newly injured hand. Will felt around Percy’s thumb. Just jammed, but a little swollen. He noticed some minor scrapes on the side of Percy’s head as well from earlier when he fell in the sand.

“Just gonna clean a couple scrapes from your face, worst, then I’ll wrap your thumb,” Will stated, grabbing and pulling on a pair of gloves.

The moment the gloves snapped onto Will’s wrist, Percy flinched.

“Warn me next time!” Percy exclaimed.

“It’s a piece of latex, Percy,” Will deadpanned, grabbing an antiseptic wipe.

“It sounds like my childhood trauma when I had to get shots at the doctor's,” Percy retorted.

“That could be arranged,” Will joked, wiping Percy’s face.

“Not funny,” Percy said as he winced.

Will stripped off his gloves, then grabbed a narrow athletic wrap, and looped it around Percy’s palm and thumb in a clean, supportive pattern.

Will grabbed a roll of athletic tape, tearing off a piece and using it to secure the wrap.

“Thanks, Will,” Percy exclaimed. “I’m off to battle again!” Percy marched back to the court.

Will sighed and continued preparing his medic station.

When he was done, Annabeth came over with a scraped knuckle.

“Scraped my knuckle,” Annabeth stated.

Will pulled on a new pair of gloves, loud enough for Percy to hear.

“WARNING, WILL!” Percy shouted.

Annabeth giggled.

Will wiped her knuckles with antiseptic, then squeezed a bit of ointment out onto two of his fingers. He rubbed the ointment carefully over Annabeth’s knuckles.

He then placed a small square of gauze on her knuckles and wrapped a narrow band evenly across them. He then added two small pieces of tape to the ends.

Annabeth thanked him and headed back onto the court.

Soon, Jason Grace gave him a visit.

“I served too hard,” Jason admitted.

“Come, sit,” Will said.

Jason offered Will his forearm. Will palpated the muscle. “Overuse,” Will confirmed. He grabbed some self-stick wrap, spiraling it up Jason’s forearm.

“Try gripping,” Will said.

Jason squeezed his fingers. “Better. Thanks,” Jason said as he jogged back to his spot.

Five minutes later came Piper.

She walked over, barely limping.

She sat on the bench and extended her leg.

“Shin scrapes,” Will stated.

He donned another pair of gloves with a loud snap, causing Percy to shriek.

“Sorry, won’t do it again,” Will called out, laughing.

“Is he hurt?” Piper asked, referencing Percy.

“Unfortunately, that’s just Percy being Percy.”

Will cleaned the scrape, Piper flinching a tad, but putting on a brave face. He squeezed ointment onto his finger, rubbing it over the scattered scrapes. He laid soft pieces of gauze over the scrapes and tapped them in place.

“Thanks, Will!” Piper exclaimed, slowly making her way back.

Finally, a moment of peace.

As Will barely got any sleep last night, he decided to take a nap.

He was still on the volleyball court. 

Except, everything was slightly too bright, like sunlight through water. The sand looked almost gold. The shouting sounds far away, like someone turned the volume down.

Nico was standing right in front of him.

But dream Nico wasn’t fighting a monster or frowning — he was just… there. Calm. Quiet. Face relaxed in a way Will barely ever sees. No shadows under his eyes. No tension in his shoulders. Just Nico, sunlight catching on him like he isn’t built from it but deserves it.

He said nothing.

He just looked at Will with that small, rare, cautious, almost-smile — the one Will has only seen maybe three times in real life.

Will didn’t move toward him; he just felt happy, happy that  Nico was safe, with him.

Then Nico lifted his hand, almost like he was about to say something—

“WILL!”

“Yeah! What’s wrong!” Will shot up, awakened by the shout of his name.

Looking to find the source of the sound, he turned to see Percy standing right next to his ear.

“That’s what you get for scaring me twice now,” Percy stated, crossing his arms. “Also, Frank did something to his finger and is too scared to tell you.”

“Frank!” Percy called, gesturing for him to come join the two boys.

“Yeah, Percy?” Frank asked.

“Now you can have Will fix your finger. Okay, Bye!” Percy ran back to the court.

“I’m sorry, Will, it’s nothing bad, I can tough it out.” Frank apologized. “I know you’re really busy—“

“Frank,” Will started,” it’s okay—“

“I tried to set the ball and—”

“Frank.”

“It hit me because I didn’t angle it right and—”

“Frank.” Will placed a hand on Frank’s shoulder, gently squeezing it. “I’m not busy right now, and you don't have anything to worry about. Now sit down, and let me see your hand.”

Frank flushed. “Right.” He sat down and extended his hand towards Will.

Will grabbed Frank's hand, inspecting his finger. He checked alignment, which was fine. He checked mobility, also fine. A clean bruise forming, tender but mobile

“Nothing serious,” Will noted. “Just a bruise.”

Frank nodded, guilty anyway. “Oh gods, I knew it was nothing major and that I shouldn't bother you.—”

Will blinked. “For…having a finger?”

Frank winced. “I know you’re busy—”

“I was busy because all of you keep getting hit like you’re trying to lose limbs.”

Frank cracked a tiny smile.

Will reached for a small pad of gauze and a roll of self-adhesive wrap.

“Why wrap it if it’s just bruised?” Frank asked quietly, genuinely confused.

“So you don’t make it worse while you’re still playing,” Will explained. “Compression keeps swelling down, and this—” he wrapped the gauze into place, then spiraled the self-adhesive wrap around the finger, smooth and snug,“—gives it protection so the ball doesn’t smack it again.”

Frank’s shoulders relaxed. “Oh. Okay. That makes sense.”

Will secured the final loop, tore off the end cleanly, and pressed it flat.

“There,” he said. “Supportive but flexible.”

Frank looked down at the neatly wrapped finger, then up at Will with such earnest gratitude it made Will soften.

“Thanks, Will. Really. Sorry if I—”

“If you apologize one more time,” Will warned lightly, “I’m making you sit in the shade and drink water like a toddler.”

Frank went scarlet, nodded frantically, and hurried back to the court.

Will shook his head, smiling despite himself.

As Frank left, Hazel walked over, calm and composed.

“Will?” she asked softly. “I think I scraped my wrist when I dove for a ball,” Hazel explained. “Could you look at it?”

Hazel was calmness reincarnated as a person.

“Yeah, of course, sit down,” Will answered, already reaching for fresh gloves. He pulled them on, not loudly this time; he felt bad enough for Percy.

Still, Percy yelped from somewhere on the court:

“WILL, PLEASE—”

Hazel tried not to smile. Will very much did not try.

“Let me see,” he said, turning back to her.

Hazel extended her wrist without hesitation. A shallow abrasion across the side. It was sandy, reddened, but nothing deep.

“Good news,” Will acknowledged, “this one just needs cleaning and covering.”

She nodded, still polite, still composed.

Will cleaned it carefully with antiseptic, slowly and gently, so he didn’t pull at the sand-in-the-skin. Hazel only inhaled once, quietly. He appreciated patients who didn’t try to wrestle him or narrate their pain with sound effects… Percy.

“Sorry,” Hazel said out of habit when she flinched.

“No need,” Will assured her. “You’re being a model patient.”

He dabbed a thin rectangle of sterile gauze onto the scrape and smoothed it down with two fingers. Then he wrapped her wrist in a slim, neat coil of gauze, tight enough to keep sand out and give her skin some protection, securing it with two small strips of tape.

“Try moving it,” Will said.

Hazel rotated her wrist, smiling. “Feels perfect!”

He nodded. “You’re good to go.”

“Thanks, Will!” Hazel smiled, jogging back to the game, waving back at Will.

Will waved back, smiling.

Hazel was a cure for Percy.

A few minutes later, Reyna strode towards Will. She was calm, like she was approaching a battlefield. 

“Mild inversion sprain,” Reyna reported. “No instability. Just wrap it.”

Will blinked at her.

“I-I love you.”

Reyna raised a Roman eyebrow at him.

“In a professional manner, of course,” Will corrected himself.

 Reyna sat on the bench, extending her ankle towards Will. He knelt beside her and palpated the swelling gently.

“No sharp pain?” Will asked.

“None.”

Will grabbed a roll of elastic wrap, creating a figure eight around Reyna’s ankle. Will finished in seconds.

“Life for me?” He asked.

Reyna lifted her leg slightly, allowing Will to slide the wrap underneath, continuing to wrap, then securing it with a piece of tape.

“Try taking a step,” Will suggested.

Reyna stood, testing her weight.

“Efficient,” she acknowledged.

She gave him a nod, then strode back onto the court, not even limping, holding her chin up high like a Roman.

Will sighed and started fiddling with his bandage.

His peace was interrupted again

“OWW!” He heard someone shout, looking up to see Nico, clutching his hand.

“NICO!” Will shouted. The eight demigods turned to face him.

Will didn’t care; his vision zoomed in, only on Nico.

He sprinted.

“Nico, are you okay?” Will asked, reaching the volleyball court.

“Yeah, it’s just—oh, ow!” Nico screeched, trying to move his hand.

“Come,” Will ordered, his eyes meeting Nico’s.

Nico decided to comply…a good choice.

The two boys walked over to Will’s makeshift medical center.

“Sit.”

Nico huffed and sat down on the bench.

“May I see-“ Will started

Nico already rolled up his sleeve, then extended his hand towards Will.

Will was shocked, but took Nico’s hand.

He felt around, listening for when Nico winced.

“Okay, just seems like a mild sprain,” Will established. “Just need to wrap it.” He grabbed a roll of self-adhesive wrap. All Nico needed was his wrist wrapped, just like how Will wrapped his... Muscle memory took over as he started looping it smoothly around Nico’s palm and wrist.

Will didn’t even need to think about wrapping Nico’s wrist; he wrapped so many wrists, it was like second nature to him.

All he thought about was the way Nico willingly gave Will his hand, without him needing to ask.

“Hey, Will…” A small hiss registered vaguely before Nico’s voice came softly, almost gently, as he snapped Will back into focus. “I’m not a medic, but… isn’t it a bit too tight?” 

Will froze, momentarily dropping the bandage. He scrambled awkwardly to gather himself up. Nico’s fingertips were turning purple.

“Oh gods, Nico. I’m so sorry,” Will started to apologize, fumbling as he started to unwrap the wrap. “I never do it this tight,” He muttered under his breath.

The medic began to wrap Nico’s wounds again, then restarted, muttering about it not being right. 

Will kept making it too tight, then too loose, not perfect. It was always perfect, why not now? 

Will's brows furrowed with frustration, again, unwrapping, until a cold palm was gently on his shoulder

He looked up to see Nico’s brown eyes staring at his own.

“Will…” Nico started hesitantly, almost unsure of himself. “Is this what you do to yourself?”

Will looked back down, not being unable to meet Nico’s gaze.

He remembered telling Nico about his wrap-quirk, just two days ago… he’d hoped Nico had forgotten about that.

Will continued to unwrap until he felt a soft, cold hand holding his wrist in place.

“It’s not your fault. Don’t punish yourself for it.”

Will’s heart stopped for just a second… a second that meant everything.

His eyes got lost in Nico’s.

He took a deep breath in.

“Okay,” Will said, regaining his composure.

In one smooth move, he perfectly wrapped Nico’s wrist.

Nico flexed his fingers.

“Thanks, Will,” Nico said. “You know, since it is the last round, you should come watch me make Percy cry.” Nico had an evil grin on his face.

“Sounds entertaining,” Will chuckled.

The two boys bonded towards the final battle: the battle of the volleyball.

The seven demigods were staring at him and Nico.

Percy looked like a codfish

“So did something happen?” Annabeth asked.

“Will fixed my hand, and I invited him to come watch me destroy Percy,” Nico replied.

Percy closed his mouth shut. “OKAY, BET! LET’S GO DI ANGELO!” Percy shouted, and the demigods headed to their respective sides.

Will couldn’t believe eight injured demigods, all covered in bandages, still wanted to keep playing.

He sat on the grass right next to the court, front row seating.

Percy bounced on the balls of his feet like he was preparing for an Olympic event. Annabeth adjusted her ponytail with the air of someone preparing to supervise a toddler. Jason cracked his knuckles, causing Piper to roll her eyes, but he smiled anyway.

Across the net, Reyna stood like a general ready for battle. Hazel and Frank shared a determined nod. Nico flexed his fingers once, then took his stance like he was about to duel, not play volleyball.

“14-14!” Jason called, serving the ball clean and smooth.

Hazel caught it, Frank bumped it, and Nico sent it flying back across the court in a sharp, controlled spike.

Percy saw it coming and let out a heroic, unnecessary battle cry as he dove.

He barely made contact.

The ball shot upward, an absolute mess of too much effort and zero technique. It spiraled above the court, wobbling like it was having an existential crisis.

“Percy-” Annabeth started.

But Percy was already running, determined to save his save.

He jumped…but Nico jumped first, smacking the ball mid-air and sending it hurtling back toward Percy’s side.

Percy yelped, scrambled, lunging for the ball, whacking it with the side of his hand.

The ball ricocheted sideways, bounced off the ground once, then shot up…and wedged itself perfectly between the volleyball pole and the top rope of the net.

Everyone froze.

Percy threw both hands in the air.

“SO I WIN!” Percy shouted happily.

A chorus of voices answered instantly, “So no!”

Percy whipped around, betrayed. “COME ON! ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!”

“Percy,” Annabeth stated, “the ball is clearly stuck.” She gestured to the volleyball stuck in the net’s pole.

“That’s not winning,” Jason claimed. “That’s just…you.”

“I didn’t even know balls could do that,” Frank said, astonished.

“Only Percy,” Hazel and Piper said in sync.

“Maybe the universe is telling us to stop before someone actually gets hurt,” Nico deadpanned.

Will smirked. “See? Even the volleyball agrees. At the end of the day, “ He gestured towards the wedged ball. “It just gave up,” he shrugged.

Suddenly, the demigods broke out into laughter, even Nico, a small smile escaping his face, full of genuine sunshine.

His warmth radiated to Will.

Chapter Text

~Nico~

The dining pavilion was full of excitement that night.

Everyone was talking, hoping for an overpowered team.

“I’m so excited to play!” Kayla exclaimed. “I hate playing medic.”

“Me too, all we ever do is just sit around until the end,” Austin added.

“Wow, thanks so much, guys,” Will said sarcastically.

The three Apollo kids giggled.

“Nico, what about you?” Kayla asked, stabbing her salad with her fork.

Nice just shrugged.

“Attention campers!” Chiron’s voice boomed.  With a wave of his hand, he silenced the demigods. “Here are tonight's teams! On Blue: Poseidon, Athena, Apollo, Hephaestus, Dionysus, Iris, Hypnos, Nemesis, and Nike. On Red: Zeus, Demeter, Ares, Aphrodite, Hermes, Hades, Hebe, Tyche, and Hecate. Captains will be Percy Jackson, Annabeth Chase, Jason Grace, and Nico Di Angelo.”

A bustling sound of chatter swept through the pavilion. Heads turned towards their right, others to their left—Holy Hera, some even bent over their table—to talk about the upcoming game. 

“What team are you on? Blue? Oh man, oh Gods of Olympus, I’m on Red! You think I’ll be okay—I mean, I mean—it’s good, right? I’ve Zeus, and… and, Hades, they’re part of the Big Three, so I’ve gotta be okay?” Nico heard an overly anxious voice ramble off in a Hypnos Cabin’s ear and suppressed an amused look. 

Kayla whispered Blue’s team list aloud before grinning and bumping Austin’s shoulder to get his attention. “Look, we have a pretty good team!”

“Yeah, Poseidon—that’s Percy—Athena… We might win this!” Austin agreed excitedly before he glanced at Nico. Realization dawned on his face before he whispered into Kayla’s ear. “We might actually be cooked. Hades is overpowered.”

“You know I heard that, right?” Nico asked.

“Yup,” Austin grinned.

Will sighed and placed his hand on his forehead.

“I don’t care who wins, as long as I don’t have to heal the whole camp,” Will stated, exhausted. “I already healed eight demigods today, and had to heal Percy twice.”

“Don’t worry, Will. Austin and I will help you treat campers once the game is over,” Kayla reassured, placing her hand over Austin’s.

“Wait, this wasn’t what we discussed with-“

Kayla gripped Austin’s hand, his face immediately reacting in pain.

“Yeah, yeah, we’ll help,” Austin said, yanking his hand from Kayla’s.

“Welp, it’s almost time for the game,” Will noted. “Kayla, Austin, and I have to go set up the medic station. You wanna come with us?” Will offered.

“No thanks,” Nico replied. “I’ve got to plan.” Nico had a tiny, devious grin on his face.

“Kayla…I’m scared,” Austin loudly whispered.

The three Apollo kids started to laugh, their sunshine so infectious, causing Nico to crack a smile.

Jason and Nico were deep in conversation.

Nico was crouched with Jason behind a thick pine tree, going over the map he’d sketched in the dirt with a stick.

Jason tapped a spot near the ridge. “If we come in from here, we’ll have cover. You can shadow-travel the last thirty feet—”

“No,” Nico said immediately. “I’m not wasting energy before the game even starts.”

“Fine,” Jason sighed. “Then we—”

“Well, well, well,” a voice said behind them.

The two boys turned to see Percy and Annabeth looming over their shoulders.

Percy stood with Riptide in sword form, grin way too bright for someone about to get tackled by traps for the next hour. Annabeth was next to him with the look of a long-suffering babysitter.

Percy gestured grandly. “Planning my defeat, are we?”

“Planning your downfall,” Nico corrected. “Different things.”

Percy smirked. “Bold words for someone going up against Nike.” He pointed to himself.  “Goddess of victory. Literal victory. On my team.”

Nico blinked at him. “And?”

Percy leaned in smugly. “Victory likes me.”

Jason snorted under his breath.

Annabeth facepalmed.

Nico crossed his arms. “That’s adorable,” he said as if we were talking to a baby. “Because we have Tyche.”

Jason perked up. “Yeah, goddess of luck!”

“Which beats ‘victory’ if victory trips on something,” Nico added.

Percy jabbed a finger at him. “You can’t just rely on luck—!”

“You rely on dumb luck every single day,” Annabeth said without looking up from inspecting her dagger.

Percy opened his mouth. “That’s different,” he retorted. 

“Two children of the Big Three against one, you’re outmatched, Jackson,” Nico stated.

“Excuse me?” Annabeth said, looking up.

“Excluding you, of course,” Jason interrupted. “You’re obviously going to carry your whole team, and mostly Percy.”

“True,” Annabeth nodded.

“HEY!” Percy complained. He stepped forward, inches away from Nico’s face. “When I win—“

“When you lose,” Nico corrected.

“—I’m going to personally carry your whole team’s flag around camp,” Percy promised.

“This is assuming you make it out without falling into a Hermes trap again,” Nico said dryly.

“I DID THAT ONE TIME—”

“Twice,” Annabeth corrected.

Percy’s jaw dropped. “Whose side are you even on?!”

“Not yours,” Nico said smugly.

The horn blew in the distance, signaling teams to gather.

Percy pointed two fingers at his own eyes, then at Nico. “This isn’t over,” he promised, “I’m going to win, just because we tied during volleyball, does NOT mean I can’t easily defeat you.”

Nico smirked. “You keep telling yourself that.”

Percy stomped off dramatically like a toddler, Annabeth following like she was reconsidering every life choice that got her to this moment.

Jason exhaled. “This is going to be chaotic.”

Nico’s grin widened. “I know.”

“Hazel, Frank,” Nico said. “I believe in you guys, if Percy comes… You know what to do.”

“Aye Aye, Captain Nico!” Hazel saluted.

“So where do you want the flag, Captain?” Frank asked.

“You see that X in the trees over there?” Nico gestured to the two trees whose branches formed an X. “Right there.”

“UP THERE?” Frank questioned.

“Yes.”

“X marks the spot, I guess,” Hazel shrugged. “Frank, could you climb this up there?” She inquired, holding up their flag.

Frank turned into a red panda.

“He’s a red raccoon,” Nico deadpanned.

“Did you panic?” Hazel asked, also deadpanned.

Red panda Frank nodded.

“It’s okay,” Hazel reassured. She handed Frank the flag and gave him a little boost up the tree. 

Frank swiftly scaled the tree, tripping over his feet a couple of times.

“You can do it!” Hazel encouraged, giggling.

Frank squeaked at her.

He finally reached the top and switched back into human form.

“Sorry, guys, I-“

“Panicked,” Nico and Hazel finished.

Frank turned into a human red panda.

Hazel giggled, then gracefully climbed up the tree, sitting next to the flag, with Frank on the opposite end.

“You guys remember the plan?” Nico asked.

“Yup!” Hazel nodded. “I’ll hide our footprints with the Mist and slightly alter the terrain..

“And I’ll change into some sort of animal or use my bow to shoot down unsuspecting campers…non-lethal arrows, of course,” Frank quickly corrected.

“Good,” Nico stated. “I gotta go to the creek now, good luck!” 

Hazel and Frank waved him goodbye and wished him luck as well.

As Nico trailed towards the creek, he could see behind him his footprints disappearing. 

He grinned.

The clearing by the creek was already buzzing when Nico arrived. Campers in armor milled around, adjusting helmets, tightening straps, and loudly arguing about rules they absolutely planned to break. The creek itself glittered like it was excited for the drama.

Jason joined him with a nod. “Frank and Hazel in position?”

Nico nodded. “Up in the tree,” Nico confirmed. “Though Frank did turn into a red panda.”

“Classic,” Jason chuckled.

Nico scanned the creek, searching for Reyna, but she was nowhere in sight.

“We should both head for the flag,” Nico suggested. “I can’t see Reyna anywhere; she’s probably on guard.”

“Good idea,” Jason nodded.

Across the creek, Percy was hyping up his team like he was leading a pep rally.

“Remember,” Percy announced loudly, “we have Nike. Victory. Literal victory. It’s in the bag!”

Someone from his team yelled back, “Percy, Nike’s not actually here—”

“Spiritually, she is!” Percy insisted. “Oh, and DO NOT mention the other shoe brand.”

“What? You mean Adid-“

“STOP! YES, THAT ONE.”

Annabeth rubbed her temples. “This is why we lose sometimes.”

Will was nearby at the medic station: a neatly folded blue cloth over a wooden table, jars of nectar and ambrosia squares, bandages stacked up by height, glowing lanterns, and a few portable cots.

He was sitting in a foldable chair, mumbling to himself.

A camper crept up behind him, trying to steal a square of ambrosia, when Will slapped their hand away.

From where Nico stood, Will looked both very professional and one bad sprained ankle away from losing his mind.

For half a second, Will lifted his head and scanned the creek. His eyes met Nico’s.

Will waved, his smile bringing red up to Nico’s cheeks.

Nico gave a small wave back, trying not to smile.

This was going to be a ridiculous night.

Chiron trotted to the center, raising his horn for attention. “Campers!”

The crowd quieted. Mostly.

“Ahem,” Chiron said louder, glaring at the Stoll brothers, who immediately stopped whatever suspicious thing they were doing.

“Rules are simple: cross the creek, retrieve the enemy flag, and bring it back to your side. No maiming, no drowning, no summoning minor gods for emotional support.”

Everyone looked at Percy.

“What?” Percy said. “Just cus’ we have Nike-”

“Stop,” Annabeth snapped. She lightly slapped his arm.

Chiron continued. “Boundaries extend to the ridge on the south side and Zeus’s Fist on the north. The game ends when one team successfully captures the flag or—”

A roar echoed in the trees.

Chiron sighed. “…or when the forest decides it’s had enough.”

Nico leaned toward Jason. “I vote for the Forest.”

“Forest always wins,” Jason muttered.

Clarisse pounded her spear into the ground from Ares's cabin’s side. “We’re coming for you losers!”

“Get in line!” Percy shouted back.

The tension rose, excitement pulsing through the campers, like they were about to run into war instead of glorified capture-the-flag.

Chiron lifted the conch horn. “Positions!”

Campers sprinted to their starting spots. Nico and Jason crouched low behind the brush on their side of the creek.

The forest went quiet. Even the water stilled.

Chiron blew the horn.

The game has begun.

Jason grinned. “Ready?”

Nico smirked. “Born ready.”

The two headed towards Zeus’s fist.

Nico and Jason slowed as the trees opened into the clearing around Zeus’s Fist.

The red flag fluttered between two boulders.

On either side was Reyna, as expected, but also Malcolm Pace, Annabeth’s half-brother.

Malcolm didn’t look nervous. He looked… annoyingly confident.

“Don’t underestimate them,” Jason murmured.

“I wasn’t planning to,” Nico replied.

Reyna’s eyes flicked toward them. “You’re persistent.”

Malcolm crossed his arms. “And predictable.”

Nico raised a brow. “Predictable? Coming from an Athena kid?”

“You always take the shadow-heavy route,” Malcolm said simply. “So I planned around it.”

Jason muttered, “That’s… actually fair.”

Nico shot Jason a nasty look.

Reyna stepped forward. “Turn around now, and we won’t have to—”

Malcolm cut her off. “He’s already counting escape routes. Four of them. One involving the shadow of your shield.”

Nico blinked. “Stop narrating my choices.”

“That’s my job,” Malcolm said flatly.

Jason lunged first.

Praector vs. Praector.

Malcolm stayed with the flag, footing perfectly solid, staff angled defensively. He wasn’t flashy.

“You won’t get past Reyna,” Malcolm said nonchalantly.

“I’m not trying to,” Nico replied.

He darted left, and Malcolm mirrored him.

He stepped right, and Malcolm followed.

Classic Athena blocking: minimal movement, maximum efficiency.

Reyna kicked Jason’s shield and sent him skidding a foot back. “Focus,” she called without looking. “Malcolm?”

“Left shadow two steps behind the stump,” Malcolm answered.

Nico froze.

“Are you tracking my shadow positions?” Nico asked.

“That’s my job,” Malcolm said, nodding once.

Reyna struck again.

Jason barely deflected it.

Nico had to act now.

He darted forward.

Reyna immediately reacted.

She swept Jason aside with a shoulder-check and pivoted, slashing just close enough to force Nico to jump back.

“Nico,” she warned, “you know I won’t hold back just because it’s you.”

“I wasn’t expecting you to.”

Reyna and Nico locked eyes.

Roman vs. Greek.

Malcolm shifted slightly. “Reyna, he’s repositioning. He’s going to—”

Nico lunged toward Malcolm, but Reyna blocked him before he got within three feet. Her gladius met his blade, sparks barely flickering.

Her strength forced him back a step.

“You’re clever,” Reyna said, “but not clever enough.”

Jason staggered to his feet. “She’s right, you know!”

“Not helping, Jason!” Nico snapped.

Reyna pressed the attack until Nico was nearly pinned between her and a boulder.

Jason hurled his shield like a Frisbee.

Reyna caught it midair without even looking.

Jason blinked. “Okay, rude.”

That half-second of distraction was all Nico needed.

Not to beat Reyna. But to do something she didn’t expect.

He stopped fighting her.

He stepped backward into a shadow, reaching behind Malcom, until he felt soft fabric on his fingertips.

Reyna turned too late.

She froze.

Malcolm inhaled sharply.

Jason’s jaw dropped.

Nico brushed dirt off the flag, deadpan.

“Oh,” he said casually. “I’ve already got it.”

Reyna actually let out a breathy laugh—the closest she ever got to being impressed.

“You’re infuriating,” she said.

“And good at my job,” Nico replied.

He stepped back into the shadow of the boulder.

Reyna lifted her gladius. “NO!”

Reyna reached for Nico, but he was already gone.

He let the shadows in.

Chapter Text

~Will~

Will sighed, fiddling with his piece of bandage while sitting on a foldable chair.

Chiron trotted over to Will with a concerned look on his face.

“Mr. Solace,” Chiron said, “the game should’ve ended by now. Do you have any guesses as to why not?”

“Maybe the Romans made it a tough match,” Will suggested.

“Perhaps,” Chiron amused, “I’m concerned many are now injured, causing the game to slow down. I would like you to go scout around and search for the reason why. You may have referee privileges.”

“Yes, sir!” Will said, grabbing his medical satchel. 

Will headed towards the forest.

The forest was quiet, too quiet.

Will tightened his grip on his satchel.

“Anyone here?” Will called, to no response.

He trekked further down the forest, scanning for injured demigods.

A sudden shout came from behind him.

“MOVE WILL!”

He turned around to see Percy Jackson sprinting towards him, a red flag in hand. 

His clothes and armor were ruined, like an animal had torn them to shreds.

He heard another shout, but a tad further away.

“YOU GIVE THAT BACK, JACKSON!”

It was Nico’s voice.

Will backed away towards a tree, just in time to not get run over by a raging Percy and a furious Nico.

He followed their trail closely, knowing anything involving Percy would result in injuries.

Percy and Nico charged onto a trail, a very leafy trail…

Will’s stomach dropped.

The scent of grapes filled the air.

Percy’s boot gained contact with the first leaf, Nico’s following soon after.

Vines snapped at their ankles, causing them to fall.

“OH GODS!” Both boys yelled, their grips on the flags loosened.

Red and Blue fell onto the floor.

At the same time.

Suddenly, a pack of campers came charging in.

“STOP!” Will yelled, but was ignored. “Of course, just don’t listen to the medic.”

He sighed, then put his fingers to his lips, an ear-screeching taxi-cab whistle exiting from his mouth.

Everyone immediately dropped their weapons, their hands shooting to cover their ears.

“It’s a tie!” Will declared. “Both flags dropped, now neutral, but at the same time, making it a draw.”

“WHAT?” Percy shouted, untangling himself from the vines. “No! Nico dropped his flag!”

“You dropped yours, too!” Nico retorted.

“UGH! BUT—I—UGH!” Percy mumbled, then huffed as he crossed his arms.

Nico rolled his eyes.

Will sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose.

Kayla and Austin came rushing towards Will.

“Need any help?” Kayla asked.

“Go send someone to grab Chiron, and start healing the injured campers,” Will ordered, now entering medic-mode. “I’ll take care of those two,” Will gestured to a struggling Percy and an annoyed Nico.

“Got it,” Austin said, and he and Kayla darted away.

Will jogged towards the struggling boys.

“Go sit on that log,” Will commanded. 

Percy and Nico got up and sat on a vacant log.

Will dropped to his knees between them, pulling on a pair of gloves.

“Again, warning please, Will,” Percy begged.

Will ignored Percy’s request, grabbing a penlight from his satchel. He placed his left hand on Percy’s chin, tilting it up. He flicked on the light and swept it across each pupil.

“Good,” Will said. He turned towards Nico. He gently grabbed Nico’s chin, pulling it closer towards him. He checked his eyes just like Percy’s. He could feel Nico’s warm breath transferring to Will.

“Perfect,” Will said, removing his hand from Nico’s face and stowing his penlight away. “No concussions.”

Will turned back to Percy. 

Will gently grabbed Percy’s arm, feeling around and inspecting his wounds.

“Move your arm,” he told Percy.

Percy winced as he did so.

“Just needs nectar,” Will confirmed. He dug through his satchel, procuring a folded gauze pad and a bottle of nectar.

Percy’s eyes widened. “Will, don’t you dare pour that on me.”

“I’m not pouring it,” Will said, already soaking the gauze. “I’m applying for it. Now, hold still unless you want to keep those scratches.”

“Frank,” Percy growled, but kept his arm still for Will.

“Hey! He didn’t turn into something weird for once, I’m proud,” Nico remarked.

Percy hissed through his teeth.

“It stings.”

“Nectar does that to you.”

Will grabbed a roll of bandage and wrapped it around Percy’s bicep, securing it with tape.

“Now almost my whole arm is covered in bandages… I’M LIKE A MUMMY!” Percy exclaimed.

Will sighed, and Nico smacked his own forehead.

Will turned his attention towards Nico, rolling up Nico’s sleeve.

“Lift your arm,” he asked.

Nico raised it halfway, then grimaced.

“Sprained shoulder,” Will diagnosed. He searched through his satchel, revealing a small ambrosia square wrapped in wax paper. He held it out for Nico to take.

“Take it in small bites,” He said. Nico mumbled something in Italian, but grabbed the square from Will’s hand.

The brisk contact of their hands made Will jump inside.

“Squeeze my hand,” Will said, offering his hand to Nico. Nico squeezed, but not too hard. The electric current ran back down his spine. He placed two of his fingers on Nico’s throat and counted his pulse. 

“Good grip, stable vitals,” Will confirmed, turning back to Percy. “Now, you,” Will said, extending his hand.

Percy squeezed way too hard.

“Oww!” Will exclaimed, removing his hand from Percy’s grasp and placing it on his throat to check his pulse.

“Well, your grip is very good, and vitals are also stable.” Will stood, brushing off the dirt on his knees.

He removes his gloves, placing them in a “dirty” bag inside his satchel.

“So, about that tie…” Percy started.

Oh Gods. Will thought.

Chiron came trotting over.

Thank the Gods. Will thought, relieved. 

“Mr. Jackson and Mr. Di Angelo,” Chiron started. “From further explanations, and given Will’s referee permission granted by me. The game did, in fact, end in a tie.”

“Oh come on!” Percy complained.

Chiron sighed, “I’ll just let you finish up here, Mr. Solace,” he said, not wanting to hear Percy’s complaints.

“Nico, rematch?” Percy suggested.

“Absolutely not,” Will stated.

Will was packing up the medic station with his siblings.

“Thanks for letting Austin and me play, Will,” Kayla said, starting to pack up the ambrosia and nectar.

“Yeah,” Austin agreed. “It was really fun.”

“Of course, guys,” Will smiled. “And thanks for helping me afterwards.”

“Mr. Solace,” Chiron said. Will turned around to see the centaur right behind him.

He gulped. “Sir?”

“Come,” Chiron gestured for Will to follow.

They walked a bit until Chiron came to a stop.

“Do you think you are in trouble?” Chiron asked.

Will hesitated. 

“Yes, sir,” he admitted.

Chiron laughed.

“Hardly, my boy,” he said. “I wanted to say, well done.”

Will blinked. “Sir?”

“Your quick thinking prevented an all-out brawl and a great many injuries. You handled the situation with levelheadedness and care.” Chiron gave him a small, proud nod. “Camp is fortunate to have a healer like you.”

Will fiddled with the hem of his shirt, flushing red.

“Just… doing my part,” Will mumbled.

“Indeed,” Chiron said, smiling. “And doing it exceptionally. You even let your siblings participate, rather than help you out.”

“Well, they’re my siblings,” Will stated. “I want them to enjoy themselves, even if it means I lose some hands.”

“And that is why you're also a leader, Mr. Solace,” Chiron explained. “You put others before you, a perfect example to other campers.”

“Thank you, Sir,” Will said.

Chiron smiled. “Now head back to your siblings, I must go meet Mr. D before the campfire starts.”

“Yes, sir!” Will said, smiling.

He gave one last nod before they parted ways.

A Leader, that’s what he called him.

The memory made Will glow.

~Nico~

The campfire glowed brightly. Hestia must be happy.

As per usual, the Apollo Cabin led the camp in song. "This Land is Minos's Land," "Down By the Aegean," "I Am My Own Great-Great-Great-Great Grandpa,” "The Wheels On The Chariot Go Round And Round,” all the classic camp songs.

Almost all the campers were covered in bandages, except for Will.

Nico sat with his friends across the fire from Will.

The fire made Will glow. His hair was shining, his freckles warm and bright, and his perfect smile on top of that shone brighter than the fire.

He was playing his acoustic guitar while singing along to the camp tunes. Austin looked like he was about to explode with all the campers singing off-key.

Chiron came over and made an announcement.

“Well, campers! Congratulations on our first capture the flag game with the Romans.”

Everyone cheered.

“We hope you enjoyed your stay here, and feel free to come visit again,” He told the Romans.

“Thank you for your hospitality,” Reyna said, nodding.

Chiron smiled. “Now then, as the sunsets a new day arises—not to erase the past, but to remind us that even the longest trials give way to light again.”

Give way to light again…

When Chiron said those words, it was as if Will was that light.

Shimmers of gold reflected in his eyes, like fairy dust.

Nico looked away, hiding his red face.

Chiron softened his tone. “And now,” he announced, “as tradition demands… marshmallows.”

A cheer exploded across the campers.

“Stolls,” Chiron added, already sounding weary, “please pass them out responsibly.”

Travis and Connor immediately appeared from behind a log with two giant bags of marshmallows, each grinning like they’d been planning this moment all day.

“Responsibly,” Chiron repeated, narrowing his eyes.

“We’re VERY responsible!” Connor lied confidently.

They started weaving through the crowd, tossing jumbo marshmallows into campers’ hands like they were dealing mythomagic cards. Campers reached up into the air, like diamonds were raining from the sky.

Chiron only chuckled under his breath.

“Campfire is yours now, campers. Enjoy,” he said as he trotted away.

Nico didn’t grab a marshmallow. Never had one… but they sounded gross.

Demeter kids sprouted sticks from the ground for each camper to roast the marshmallows on.

Hazel was laughing at Frank, as he had a marshmallow mustache.

Reyna ate hers with decorum.

Percy and Annabeth fed each other.

Jason and Piper roasted each one together.

Will and his siblings were laughing.

Everyone was happy.

But what about Nico?

He thought back to when Annabeth talked to him after she and Percy came back from Tartarus.

“I want to thank you,” she continued. “Bob... the Titan... he only helped us in Tartarus because you were kind to him. You told him we were worth saving.

That's the only reason we're alive.”

She said we so easily, as if she and Percy were interchangeable, inseparable.

Nico had once read a story from Plato, who claimed that in the ancient times all humans had been a combination of male and female. Each person had two heads, four arms, four legs. Supposedly, these combo-humans had been so powerful they made the gods uneasy, so Zeus split them in half - man and woman. Ever since, humans had felt incomplete. They spent their lives searching for their other halves.

And where does that leave me? Nico wondered.

It wasn't his favourite story.

Everyone was laughing, enjoying themselves with friends.

But not Nico.

Never Nico.

He shifted back a little, away from the fire’s edge, letting the shadows swallow him the way they always did. 

Someone’s marshmallow caught on fire, and an eruption of laughter shot through the camp. A Hermes kid waved the flaming blob around like a torch before finally blowing it out, the crowd cheering like they’d witnessed some heroic feat.

One voice he could hear out of them all, Will’s.

Will’s laugh was melodic and could brighten anyone’s day.

Nico almost smiled. 

A younger camper then rushed up to him and held out a stick with a marshmallow already skewered on it. Her eyes were bright, hopeful. “You didn’t get one,” she said simply, like she was pointing out a fact about the weather.

Nico blinked. “Uh…I’m good.”

“Are you staring at Will?” She asked.

Nico jumped in his seat, realizing he was.

“Just zoning out,” Nico quickly said.

“Well, Will’s super nice,” she stated. “He fixed my leg earlier in the week.”

“What’s your name?” Nico asked.

“Nola.”

He’d remembered Will was talking about a sweet little girl with a dislocated ankle.

“That’s pretty,” Nico said. “I’m Nico.”

“Oh, so you're the emo kid people talk about,” she said happily.

Nico paused.

“Okay, bye!” She said, waving as she skipped away.

Nico wasn’t even sure if he felt grateful or awkward. Maybe both.

He looked back across. Will was still smiling, and everyone was still happy.

The healer shone brighter than the fire.

Nico wrapped his arms a little tighter around himself as a breeze came through.

The campfire blazed on. Life moved around him.

And Nico stayed where he always did.

On the edge.

Chapter Text

~Nico~

Hazel and Nico were in Cabin 13.

Just like before, Hazel partitioned her side of the room with sheets, just like a quarantine zone. They were sitting on the black leather couch in front of the fireplace.

Hazel was saying how it was now to be a centurion, how Camp Jupiter is repairing, and basically what happened when they got back.

Nico just smiled and nodded.

“And Frank was so sweet…” Hazel paused. “Nico? Ever since the campfire, you’ve been acting… different.”

“Just tired,” he responded dryly.

“You know, you seem like something, no,” Hazel corrected. “Someone is on your mind.”

Nico gulped and started fiddling with the hem of his hoodie.

Will’s hoodie… the one he’s been wearing for the past three days…

“It—it’s—”

“Nico,” Hazel interrupted. “You’re in love, aren’t you?”

“I don’t know,” Nico admitted.

“Well, what do you feel?” Hazel inquired, now sitting upright.

“Every time he touches me, I feel an electric current down my spine. His smile is just so bright, his touch warms me. Even when he looks at me, it makes me turn red,” Nico acknowledged.

“Wait, he?”

Oh Gods.

It’s over.

Nico and Hazel both grew up during a time when people like him were imprisoned.

She would never accept him, not now.

Hazel’s expression softened.

“Nico,” she said calmly. “Are you gay?”

Nico nodded.

“I know you hate me now,” he started. “I’ll just—“

“No, Nico. I don’t hate you, why would I hate you?” Hazel asked, dumbfounded.

“Well, we both grew up when—“

“So?” Hazel chided. “You’re still my brother, and I’ll love you no matter what,” she embraced Nico in a hug.

Nico accepted her embrace, hugging her back.

“Thanks, Hazel,” he said.

Hazel released Nico from her grasp and sat up straight. “So, who’s the lucky guy?” She asked.

Nico didn’t respond.

Hazel’s face changed.

“You like Will, don’t you?”

How could she know?

His cheeks burned red.

“Aww, Nico!” Hazel exclaimed. “I’m so happy, he’s such a good guy! Oh, you guys will be so cute together!”

“But, I don't even know if he’s…you know,” Nico drawled.

“Well, you never know! And anyone will be lucky to have you, Nico,” Hazel stated. “You’re the best brother I could ever ask for,” she smiled.

“You’re an amazing sister,” he responded.

“Now let’s go to bed,” she said. “I’m so tired from fighting Percy.”

Nico laughed.

They climbed onto their respective beds, now separated by white bedsheets.

“Goodnight, Hazel.”

“Sweet dreams, Nico.”

And he did in fact have sweet dreams.

The sun was shining, a warm glow lingering around the camp.

He was on the porch of the Big House, staring at the sunrise.

He looked to his left. Will Solace was staring at the sunrise.

His hair was tousled from the warm breeze, arms resting loosely over his knees. His presence felt like a soft blanket draped around Nico’s shoulders: warm, steady, and grounding.

They didn’t look at each other.

They didn’t smile.

They didn’t speak.

They just watched the sunrise together.

It was peaceful.

Simple.

A kind of calm Nico rarely let himself feel.

The feeling stayed with Nico even as he woke up.

It was about 9:00 A.M. when the Romans got ready to leave.

Nico, Percy, Annabeth, Jason, and Piper were standing outside the Big House. They met Reyna, Frank, and Hazel to say goodbye.

“Make sure to come visit again!” Piper exclaimed, hugging Hazel.

“We will,” Reyna answered. “You all are always welcome to come visit Camp Jupiter.”

Frank encased everyone in a bear hug, literally, he turned into a bear.

He quickly changed back to a regular dude and backed away.

Frank rubbed the back of his neck. “Sorry, just got too—“

“It’s all good, Frank,” Jason said.

Hazel summoned Arion, a gust of wind passing by.

“Hey there,” Hazel called, rubbing Arion’s muzzle.

He neighed.

“You should probably feed him a snack, Hazel,” Percy suggested. “I’m not calling you big!” Percy shouted to the horse, raising his hands in defense. 

Hazel giggled and summoned a gold nugget from the floor.

“Here you go,” she said, feeding the nugget to Arion.

She then hopped onto the horse, Frank and Reyna following soon after.

They waved goodbye, and Arion launched forward in a blur—dust swirling into a smoky golden trail behind them.

Nico started to walk away, but only made it six or seven steps before being stopped.

“Nico!” A voice said behind him

Will jogged down the steps of the Big House, his hair messy, and in green scrubs.

Nico blinked as Will caught up to him. “Morning?”

“Nope, none of that.” Will snapped. “You’re helping me in the infirmary today.”

“I just did my time there,” Nico retorted.

“You offered to help me before breakfast yesterday, and back at the end of the war, remember? I’m cashing that in,” Will stated.

“Better listen to Dr. Solace,” Percy teased.

“I wouldn’t go there,” Jason told Percy.

“Percy,” Will said calmly, redirecting his attention to him. “I know you defeat monsters for a living, but just remember,” Will was now smiling, “I know how to break every bone in your body, and the only ways to fix them.”

Percy gulped.

“Note to self,” he said. “Don’t bother Will when he’s busy.”

Annabeth sighed.

The trio walked away, just leaving Nico and Will together.

“So? Let’s go!” Will exclaimed, lightly grabbing Nico’s wrist and pulling him to the infirmary.

His heart raced at the contact of Will’s warm hand and rhe elished it.

The scent of the infirmary struck again. He hadn’t been in here since he got discharged.

“Hey, Nico!” Kayla called. She was organizing a cabinet with Austin.

Nico waved, freeing his hand from Will’s.

“Oh, and Will!” Austin shouted. “Ambrosia and nectar are out.”

“Di Immortales!” Will said. He sighed. “Welp, guess we better head to the forest.” He gestured for Nico to follow.

Nico complied, and they headed out of the Big House.

As they stepped into the forest, the air cooled instantly. Light filtered in thin green stripes between branches, and the earthy smell of moss and old magic settled around them.

“Why are we going to the forest?” Nico asked.

“To Juniper,” Will answered. “She gives me the ambrosia and nectar to stock up the infirmary with.”

A voice floated from the trees.

“Will!” Juniper exclaimed, stepping out of a juniper bush.

“Hey, Juniper!” Will waved. “I need some—“

“Ambrosia,” Juniper continued. “I figured you would after capture the flag. She waved her hand, and a woven basket sprouted from the roots at her feet, filled with ambrosia loaves, small sealed jars of nectar, and dried healing herbs.

She lifted the basket and handed it to Will.

“Oh, and who is this?” She asked, now realizing Nico was there.

Juniper leaned forward, squinting like she was trying to determine if Nico was going to hex the tree line.

“Nico… Di Angelo?” she asked slowly.

“…Yes?” Nico replied, unsure whether to be offended or concerned.

Juniper straightened, brushing off her skirt.

“Oh! Well, wow! I’ve just never seen you this far into the forest willingly. Or in daylight.” She noted.

Will chuckled.

“Well, thanks for the supplies, Juniper,” Will said.

She smiled, then disappeared back into the woods.

They re-entered the infirmary while Kayla and Austin were still restocking shelves.

Will slipped behind a tall shelving unit stuffed with folded sheets and jars of herbs.

“C’mon. I do most of the prep back here,” he said over his shoulder.

Nico followed him into a small alcove tucked behind the shelves. A narrow counter ran along the wall beneath a tiny window, letting in a warm spill of sunlight. It smelled faintly of cedar and nectar — quiet, secluded, perfect.

Will set Juniper’s basket on the counter.

“No patients come back here,” Will promised. “Just us.”

Will donned a pair of gloves, then grabbed an ambrosia loaf, setting it on a cutting board. He motioned for Nico to come closer.

“Hold out your hands, like this,” Will demonstrated.

Nico eyed him suspiciously.

“I’m not gonna hurt you,” Will laughed.

Nico sighed and copied Will.

Will grabbed another pair of gloves and gently pulled them onto Nico’s hands.

“If you’re going to help me,” he said, while doing so. “You’re going to be sterile.”

Will then opened a drawer, pulling out a celestial bronze knife with a polished wooden handle. He closed the drawer, setting the knife on the cutting board, then retrieved sheets of wax paper from another drawer, placing them on the counter in front of Nico.

Will grabbed the knife and, with precision, cut two squares of ambrosia, setting one in Nico’s palms.

“Copy me,” Will said. “This is how to wrap the squares.”

Will folded the square in wax paper, slowly showing Nico. Nico copied Will and made an almost exact replica of Will’s.

“Perfect!” Will praised. “When you’re done, make a pile here.” Will placed his square on the counter, and Nico did the same.

Will’s knife moved in quick, clean motions—not frantic, just efficient, like his hands were operating on their own. Each slice of ambrosia came out perfectly even, identical in size, like he’d eyeballed the measurements a thousand times…Which he probably did.

Nico blinked.

He was always astonished by how easily Will could calm down. Usually, the healer is bubbly, charming, and friendly, but when he’s at the infirmary?

This quiet, practiced competence?

It was… different.

Will didn’t seem to realize Nico was watching. He just kept working, humming under his breath as he lined up the rows of ambrosia.

Nico looked away quickly, pretending to inspect the wax paper.

He didn’t want to admit to himself, but there was something strangely grounding about seeing Will in his element.

Focused. Calm. Completely sure of what he was doing.

Will slid a few squares to Nico.

Will went back to work, hands moving fast and practiced. “Ambrosia also softens with heat,” he went on, “so if your palms get warm, it’ll start to melt. But you’ll be fine, your hands run cool. That’s actually really convenient.”

Nico stared at him. “…You know the temperature of my hands?”

“Whenever I check your pulse, your hand is always cold,” Will shrugged. “I  keep mental notes. Occupational hazard.”

A few more pieces slid Nico’s way.

Nico just blanked.

He quickly shook himself out of it and began to wrap.

He noticed some squares were bigger than the others, and that some were firmer. Nico decided to sort the squares himself.

Probably wouldn’t even matter, he thought. Will’s going to have me sort them later anyway.

He started making towers, based on size, then firmness.

Minutes later, the squares stopped coming to Nico.

Will brushed the crumbs of ambrosia off his gloves. “Alright,” Will said. “ Cubes are wrapped, so now we sort them into—”

He turned around.

Will blinked.

“—categories,” he finished weakly. “You already sorted them out.”

“Yeah, I just thought it would be easier to sort them later,” Nico shrugged.

“I mean, that’s great, Nico,” Will said. “Like genuinely, but I’m just surprised. You organized them the exact way I do.”

Nico quickly diverted his gaze, wrapping the last square of ambrosia.

He set it in its correct pile and noticed Will staring.

“Do you want me to mess it all up so we can reorganize it?” Nico asked, puzzled.

“No!” Will reached his hands forward, protecting the ambrosia. “Gods, no! It’s perfect. Thank you, Nico,” he smiled. “I’ll have Kayla and Austin put these away.” Will held out a hand. “Okay, gloves off.”

Nico reached for the cuff of his own glove, but Will stepped closer and said, “No, here. Give me your hands.”

Nico froze, confused. “I can take off my own gloves, Sunshine.”

“Maybe,” Will said, “but you’ll do it wrong and get ambrosia crumbs everywhere. Trust me.”

Before Nico could argue, Will gently took his wrist, like Nico was some fidgety patient who might bolt. Will hooked a finger under the glove edge and peeled it off in a clean, smooth motion, letting it fall into his other gloved palm.

Will’s warm trail lingered on Nico’s skin, leaving a trace of red on his ears.

Will nodded, satisfied. “There. Clean removal. Zero contamination.”

Will balled both gloves neatly into his own, then removed them in a perfect inside-out motion until all four gloves were folded together in a tight, sterile bundle.

He tossed it into the bin, then turned back as nothing unusual had happened. “There. Done.”

Nico blinked. “Do you do everything neatly?”

“Only when I’m awake,” Will said, laughing. “Now—“

“Oh, Will!” Kayla called.

“Yeah, Kayla?” Will called back.

“Someone’s requesting to see you,” she answered. 

“Be there soon!”

Will gestured for Nico to follow.

The two boys headed out of the alcove and into the main infirmary.

Sitting on a cot was the same girl from the campfire last night.

“Hey, Nola,” Will said cheerfully.

“Hi, Will,” Nola smiled. She then looked at Nico. “Hi, Nico.”

Nico waved at her.

“Since when did you two get to know each other," Will asked.

“He looked sad last night at the fire, so I offered him a marshmallow,” Nola stated.

The slightest hint of concern grew on Will’s face.

“Well, anywho,” Will continued, going into medic-mode, “what happened?”

Nola lifted her left arm, revealing a long, angry red welt running from her wrist to her elbow.

“Yesterday I saw Cecil making this really cool trap, so he offered to help me make one today,” she announced proudly. “The rope snapped back and slapped me really hard like—THWAP!” She mimed the rope.

Will winced. “Yeah, that’ll do it.”

“Why’d you pull so hard?” Nico asked.

“Cus’ Connor and Travis said I had ‘potential,’” Nola said with air quotes. 

Will grabbed and put on a pair of gloves, then gently took Nola’s arm.

He hummed thoughtfully. “Rope snap. Clean strike, with no tearing. Just a lovely welt,” Will confirmed.

Will let go of her arm, then stood. “Okay, Nico. Tell Kayla I need one small roll of light gauze, and tell her it’s for a compress.”

“Why can’t you go?” Nola asked.

“I mean, sure,” Will shrugged. “If you want your arm to feel like it’s on fire for another five minutes.”

“Nico should go,” Nola decided.

Will laughed and patted Nola’s leg.

Nico left and made his way to where Kayla was organizing a supply closet.

“Oh, Hey, Nico!” Kayla exclaimed. She paused to look at Nico. “What can I do for you?”

Her hair was pulled up in a messy bun, her green highlights peering through.

“Will said for me to tell you, he needs one small roll of light gauze, and that it’s for a compress,” Nico stated.

Kayla nodded, then searched through the closet. She pulled out a small roll and handed it to Nico.

“So, you’re helping Will again?” She asked.

“I mean, I’m—“

“Sure,” Kayla said, grinning. “See you later, Nico!” She waved him goodbye.

Nico walked back to Will.

“Just in time!” Will said cheerfully.

Will was walking back to Nola, holding a damp, wrung-out cloth. He sat back down on his chair.

“Okay, might sting at first,” he warned, then placed the cloth on Nola’s arm.

“HOLY HERA!” Nola screeched.

“I know, sorry,” Will apologized.

Nico handed Will the roll of gauze.

“Keep your arm out still, like this,” Will demonstrated, holding his forearm out.

Nola copied, still squinting from the sting.

Will started to wrap Nola’s arm, but she just kept flinching.

“Gods! That stings!” Nola would say every time Will tried to touch her arm.

“Nico, do you mind holding her arm?” Will asked.

Nico nodded and hesitantly held Nola’s arm in place.

“Oh! You’re so cold!” She exclaimed. “And you’re so warm,” she directed to Will.

“Uh-huh,” Will said, obviously not paying attention, only focused on wrapping Nola’s arm.

“There,” Will said, tying off the gauze. “Keep it on for twenty minutes. If it darkens or stings worse, come back.” Nico quickly released his grip on Nola’s arm.

“Okay! Thanks!” Nola grinned. 

Suddenly, she leaned forward and planted a quick kiss on Will’s cheek.

Nico froze.

Will blinked.

“Nola?” Will asked, smiling softly. “Everything okay?”

“It’s what we do back at home!” She exclaimed. “When someone helps you, you give them a thank-you kiss! My grandma says it spreads good luck.”

“Ohhh,” Will said, relief in his voice. “A good-luck kiss. That’s sweet.”

Nola nodded earnestly. “And you have to give one back or the luck doesn’t stick!”

Will let out a tiny, warm laugh.

“Well, we can’t have you walking out of here unlucky,” he stated.

Will bent down just a little and gave her a light, careful peck on the cheek.

Nico made a noise like he swallowed his own soul.

Just a culture thing, Nico reminded himself.

Nola beamed. “See? Now it’ll work!”

Will ruffled her hair. “Alright, now go show your cabin your new bandage. But no more traps today.”

Nola giggled, then waved to the two boys as she skipped out of the infirmary.

Nico was still processing what just happened. He just stood there, frozen.

“Well,” Will said, taking off his gloves. “Better start—“

“WILLLLLL!!”

“Oh gods.”

Drew Tanaka burst through the infirmary doors limping dramatically.

She immediately sat herself down on a cot.

“Oh, Will!” She cried. “I was wearing my new sandals, and my heel hurts so bad!!”

Will sighed.

“Take off your shoe,” Will directed.

Drew removed her sandal to reveal a blister that was red, swollen, definitely painful, and clearly rubbing badly with every step.

“Okay, let me go get some supplies, and I’ll take a closer look,” Will said, and quickly walked away.

“Is it, Nico?” Drew asked, and Nico turned to face her.

“Yes.”

“You like him, don’t you?”

“No.” Nico scoffed. “Why would I—“

“Honey,” Drew interrupted. “I’m a daughter of Aphrodite,” she reminded him. “I know love when I see it. Plus, almost everyone thinks Will is attractive in this camp. And don’t worry! I’m not homophobic. I love the gays. Truly. Do what you want—love who you want. Follow your heart. Blah blah inspirational stuff.” She started to check her nails.

“But just so you know, Will is mine.”

“Didn’t you guys date for like three months, then break up?” Nico asked.

“Not important!” Drew chided.

Thankfully, Will came back.

He was carrying a tray which he set on the nearby cot.

“Alright, can you please place your leg on the cot?” Will asked as he slipped on a pair of gloves.

Drew dramatically lifted her leg, looking like she was lifting a thousand pounds, onto the cot.

Will gently rotated her foot, and started to feel around the blister.

“Just needs to be cleaned and wrapped,” Will confirmed. “Nico, could you hand me the white packet on the tray?”

Nico grabbed a small, white packet on the tray Will had brought in and handed it to him.

He gave Nico a slight nod of appreciation, then opened the packet, revealing a small wipe.

“Might sting at first,” he warned Drew, then started to wipe down her heel.

“Oh, it does sting a bit,” she noted. “But you’re so good with your hands.”

Nico wanted to gag.

Will discarded the wipe and exchanged it for a roll of padded gauze. He wrapped the gauze around the back of her heel, securing it neatly.

“This padding will keep your sandal from rubbing,” he said. “Try walking on your toes until you get back to your cabin.”

Drew leaned forward, smiling down at him with way too much interest. “You’re a lifesaver. Really.” She ran her hand down Will’s forearm, then exited the infirmary.

Nico felt bad for Will.

Nico cleared his throat. “I should probably go now.”

Almost too quickly, Will responded. “I-I still need you.”

Nico froze.

Oh.

Oh.

He tried not to read into it, but the words echoed in his chest anyway, warm and dizzying.

“Okay,” Nico said quietly.

Will’s shoulders relaxed. That soft, grateful smile blossomed across his face.

Nico’s heart pounded.

That warmth from Will spread through him like sunlight.

He stayed.

Chapter Text

~Nico~

Knock! Knock!

Nico woke up to the sound of someone knocking on the door.

Oh Gods, he thought. I forgot about Cabin Inspections.

Nico quickly got up and rushed to make his bed.

He looked around the cabin, not really messy, since he didn’t have many things, and it was just him.

Good enough, he told himself.

Nico went to the door, opening it to reveal Annabeth and Percy.

Annabeth was holding a clipboard and pen, while Percy looked like he wanted to go back to sleep….Honestly?…Same.

“Good Morning!” Annabeth cheered.

“Morning,” Nico responded, and moved aside to let the two demigods into the cabin.

They searched around as Nico waited by the door, their faces surprised.

“Wow, it’s pretty clean in here, actually,” Annabeth remarked.

“It’s also the polar opposite of Apollo Cabin,” Percy commented.

“You’ve been inside Wi—Apollo’s Cabin?” Nico caught himself asking.

“For Cabin Inspections,” Annabeth reminded him. “It was pretty clean today, gave them a five out of five.”

Percy was awestruck. “It’s literally so crazy, their cabin is so bright and sunny and happy, while yours is all sad, and gloomy, and—“

“Dark, I get it,” Nico snapped.

“Four out of Five,” Annabeth decided, as she wrote the score onto the clipboard.

“What happened to the other point?” Nico inquired.

“There’s dust,” Annabeth stated, “everywhere.”

“Fair enough,” Nico decided.

The couple waved goodbye as they exited Nico’s cabin, finally giving him some alone time.

He sighed.

Now I have to get ready for breakfast.

He’d frown at the thought, but he didn’t.

Will will be there.

~Will~

“Perfect! Five out of five,” Annabeth exclaimed, writing down the Apollo Cabin’s score on her sheet.

Of course, right after dinner last night, Will, Kayla, and Austin spent an hour freshening up the cabin, just so they wouldn’t have to do chores.

After she and Percy waved goodbye and left, all the attention turned towards Will.

“Cabin meeting, now!” Austin shouted.

The three demigods sat right down on the white couches.

“Okay, so—“

“Just get to the point,” Will sighed.

“I’m pretty sure Nico likes you, Will,” Kayla blurted out.

Will blinked.

“What?” He asked.

“Yesterday, he got all fluttered when I started talking about you,” Kayla said.

“He did?” Will started to smile.

“You’re happy, great,” Austin said. “Now, let’s actually discuss WHY YOU HAVEN’T ASKED HIM OUT YET!”

“Austin!” Kayla slapped his arm. “What we mean is, you need to start making a move.”

Will just stared.

“This,” Kayla said, waving to Will’s face. “Is why Drew was able to dump you! You have no… charisma.”

“Yes, I do!” Will retorted.

“All the girls at camp like you, because they think you’re hot,” Kayla deadpanned.

“Technically, I am,” Will shrugged.

“Technically, we all are,” Austin pointed out. “The bottom line is, we need to start working on your flirting.”

“Yeah,” Kayla agreed. “The only thing you ever talk to Nico about, or about him to us, is about his health.”

“He’s anemically pale! Ah need ta get some sugar in ‘im!” Austin mocked, using a southern accent.

“I don’t sound like that,” Will grumbled, crossing his arms.

“You do when you’re sleeping,” Austin mumbled.

“Will. Flirt. Right now,” Kayla ordered.

Will stared at her as if she’d just asked him to defuse a bomb.

“With who?” he asked cautiously.

“With us, genius,” Austin said. “Practice.”

Will sighed. “Fine. Uhh,” he cleared his throat. “You look… healthy today.”

Kayla buried her face in her hands.

Austin leaned back on the couch. “Wow. If that doesn’t scream romance, I don’t know what does.”

“That’s not flirting!” Kayla groaned. “That’s a check-up.”

“I don’t know how to do this!” Will protested. “Every time I talk to Nico, I just—worry.”

Kayla softened a little. “Okay. That part? That’s not bad.”

Austin nodded. “Yeah. You just can’t lead with ‘your iron levels are concerning.’”

“So what do I say?” Will asked.

Kayla leaned forward. “You talk to him like he’s a person, not a patient.”

“And,” Austin added, “you let him do things without hovering.”

“I don’t hover,” Will huffed.

“You locked him inside the infirmary for three days,” Austin retorted.

Will rolled his eyes. “But what if he gets hurt?”

“Then,” Kayla said patiently, “you help him after. Not before. Not during. After.”

Austin snapped his fingers. “Exactly. Compliment first. Heal later.”

Will blinked. “Compliment him on what?”

Kayla smirked. “Oh, I don’t know. The way he fights. The way he thinks. The way he’s terrifying in an impressive way.”

Austin nodded. “He’ll love that.”

“I am not calling Nico terrifying,” Will said.

“You absolutely are,” Kayla said. “But in a cool way.”

Will leaned back, thinking. 

“Okay, now go!” Kayla exclaimed.

“You’re so terrifying when you’re in battle, but really cool!” Will said, then groaned, placing his head in his palms. “Oh, this isn’t going to work!”

Kayla sighed. “Guess we’re really starting from the basics. What do you like about Nico?”

“He’s brave, thoughtful, smart, and he never gives up,” Will said, not even needing to think.

“Boom! Compliment right there!” Austin acknowledged.

Kayla and Austin exchanged a look.

“Okay, now back to the actual flirting,” Kayla said. “Pick up lines— Go.”

Will sat up straighter. “Okay. I’ll try a… line.”

Austin’s eyes lit up. “Oh gods, yes.”

Kayla crossed her arms. “Proceed. Carefully.”

Will cleared his throat. “Okay. Um.”

He looked at Kayla. “Are you—” he stopped. “No. You’re not Nico.”

“Good start,” Austin said. “Strong awareness.”

Will tried again. “Are you… made of sunshine?”

Kayla squinted. “That’s not terrible.”

“Because,” Will continued, “you should probably wear sunscreen. To avoid burns.”

There was a long silence.

Austin slowly leaned back into the couch. “You almost flirted, and then you diagnosed.”

“I panicked,” Will said defensively.

Kayla sighed. “Okay. New rule. No medical follow-ups.”

Will nodded. “Right. No follow-ups.”

He tried again. “Is your name Nico?”

Austin blinked. “Well—”

“Because,” Will rushed, “uhm— never mind. Abort.”

Kayla pinched the bridge of her nose. “You’re overthinking this so hard.”

“I don’t know how people do this!” Will groaned.

He straightened again. “Hey.”

Silence

Will cleared his throat. “No, that’s it. Just ‘hey.’”

Kayla smiled despite herself. “That one’s actually fine.”

“Really?”

“Yes,” she said. “Because it’s you.”

Austin nodded. “Nico doesn’t need smooth. He needs real.”

Will relaxed a little. “So I don’t need pickup lines?”

“Absolutely not,” Kayla said firmly.

Austin grinned. “But if you do use one, make sure it doesn’t involve iron deficiency.”

Will snorted. “Deal.”

He leaned back, staring at the ceiling again.

“I’m still going to mess this up.”

Kayla stood and clapped him on the shoulder. “Yeah. But you’ll mess it up with honesty.”

Austin smirked. “Which is, tragically, very charming.”

“Met you guys at breakfast?” Will asked.

“Yup, now go get him, tiger!” Austin exclaimed.

Will chuckled and rushed out of the cabin.

“I can do this,” Will muttered to himself. “Just gotta be nonchalant.”

He knocked on Cabin 13’s door.

Out came Nico Di Angelo.

“You ready?" Will asked.

“I guess,” Nico shrugged, closing the door behind him.

They started their walk.

Will took a deep breath.

“So, hey,” Will smirked lopsidedly, rubbing the back of his neck as they walked. “Uh—hello.”

He trailed off, leaving Nico confused. Frick! They didn’t prepare me for anything other than “hey!”

“Hey…?” Nico urged, his eyebrow lifted. 

“Hey...” Will be repeated in a mutter. “I really like these walks!”

“Okay.”

“No—I said, I really like these walks!”

“O-okay…? Good for you? I guess…?”

Nico paused, stopping just before Will. His eyes trailed up and down in suspicion.

Will sighed.

“Let’s just—eat,” Will muttered.

He dejectedly walked to the pavilion.

Taking their seats, Austin and Kayla immediately recognized Will’s expression.

“Hey, you two!” Kayla said as the two boys took their seats.

Nico gave a polite smile.

“You guys look so cute sitting together!” Kayla smiled.

Nico looked down.

“So, anyways,” Austin continued, mouth full of pancakes, “whatcha doing after breakfast, Nico?”

“Training with Jason and Piper,” Nico responded, making eye contact with Austin.

“Do you have a medic on standby?” Austin asked.

“No…did you want to supervise?” Nico inquired.

“Oh, no!” Austin replied. “I have archery practice with Kayla after this, but Will is free!”

Will and Nico’s faces turned red.

Kayla and Austin grinned.

“I—,” Will gulped, “I am.”

“Yes, you are,” Kayla confirmed.

“Yeah, if three of the most powerful demigods are going to be training together, you’re probably gonna want a medic on standby,” Austin added.

“And Will told us about how everyone got hurt when you guys played volleyball that one time,” Kayla pointed out.

“If you want—I guess you can come,” Nico shrugged.

“Okay,” Will said nonchalantly. Inside, he was jumping with joy.

They ate the rest of their breakfast in silence.

“Well, I’m stuffed!” Austin said. “Kayla, let’s go!”

They smiled and rose from the table.

Kayla leaned into Will. “Don’t mess this up,” Kayla whispered.

She smiled, then gave Will a quick peck on the cheek.

After they left, it was just him and Nico.

No one talked.

“I gotta stop by the infirmary to go get some stuff first,” Will said, breaking the silence.

“Okay.”

“Did you…wanna come?”

“Okay.”

“Okay.” Will smiled.

Their walk to the infirmary was quick and silent.

Will held the door open for Nico, a quick nod in return.

“So what do you need?” Nico asked.

“Just my satchel and a first-aid kit,” Will replied.

Nico nodded and leaned against a nearby wall.

Will went behind the counter, grabbed a first-aid kit, stuffed it into his satchel, then swung it across his shoulders.

“Okay, let’s go!” Will said.

As they walked to the training grounds, the sun shone brightly.

The sun’s rays highlighted Nico, making him stand out from the others around him.

“So uh—how’s your arm?” Will asked.

Of course, I forgot, no medical talk, Will chided himself.

“My Lycaon arm?” Nico asked.

Might as well go on with it. “Yeah.”

“Much better, actually,” Nico responded. “Even after capture the flag, it didn’t even bother me.”

That made Will smile, knowing he helped Nico’s pain.

“Glad to hear it,” Will said.

As they got closer to the arena, Will could see Jason and Piper waiting for Nico. 

The arena curved out of the ground in a shallow stone bowl. The tiered benches were worn smooth from years of training and spectators. A wide ring of packed sand lay at the center, marked with footprints and drag lines, surrounded by straw dummies in battered Greek armor and neatly arranged weapon racks. The forest pressed close on one side, the sounds of the archery range and Pegasus stables drifting through the air.

“Hey, guys!” Piper greeted them. “Glad you brought Will along, Nico.”

“Yeah, probably a smart decision,” Jason chuckled.

Will smiled, then headed towards the stands.

He sat in the middle row, while the three other demigods grabbed swords.

From the benches, Will watched Jason, Nico, and Piper move through the sand in a steady rhythm. Jason fought with calm precision, every strike controlled. 

Nico matched him easily, his blade flashing as he pivoted and countered, efficient and relentless.

Piper darted between them, fast and smart, relying on timing more than strength. She slipped past Jason once, earning a quick grin, then blocked high as he pressed again.

Will felt it before he fully saw it.

The subtle hitch in her movement, the way her shoulder tightened instead of flowing through the block.

The impact jolted her arm.

Piper reset too quickly, pretending it hadn’t happened, but her next swing lagged just enough to confirm Will’s suspicion. 

When she parried Nico’s follow-up, a hiss exited her mouth, and she stepped back, lowering her sword.

“Time out,” Piper said, rolling her shoulder.

Jason was already moving toward her.

Will was already on his feet, hopping down the benches to get to Piper.

Will reached Piper just as Jason slowed, his hand already hovering near her back.

“Hey,” Will said, his voice steady and low. “Easy.”

Piper exhaled and let her sword dip. Will stepped in without thinking, sliding an arm lightly behind her shoulders as an anchor. He felt the tension immediately, the way she leaned into the support without realizing she’d needed it.

“I blocked wrong,” Piper muttered.

“Yeah,” Will said softly. “I saw.”

He guided her out of the ring at an unhurried pace, keeping his hand at her back as the sand gave way to stone. Piper rolled her shoulder once and winced, her steps slowing just a fraction.

From the corner of his eye, Will caught Nico watching.

Not staring—just observing, dark eyes sharp and concerned, blade lowered at his side. When Piper faltered for half a step, Nico’s grip tightened on his sword.

Will lifted his head. “Ya’ll are good,” he called back to the ring. “Keep going. I’ve got Piper.”

Jason hesitated, clearly torn.

“I’ve got her,” Will repeated, firmer this time, meeting Jason’s eyes.

Jason nodded and turned back, motioning for Nico to reset. Nico did, but not before glancing once more toward the benches, his expression unreadable.

Will helped Piper sit in the first row, keeping a hand steady at her shoulder until she settled.

“Okay,” he said, crouching in front of her. “Talk to me. When did it start hurting?”

Piper sighed. “A few swings ago. I was hoping you wouldn’t notice.”

Will huffed quietly. “That was your first mistake. Don’t move,” he added. He lightly pressed two fingers just above her shoulder, watching her face instead of the injury.

“Does that pull?” he asked.

Piper hissed. “Yeah. That spot.”

“Okay.” Will exhaled. “Strain. Not bad. But you’re done swinging for now.”

She opened her mouth to argue.

“Nope,” he added. “Don’t even start.”

Will closed his eyes, centering himself. He then placed his hands on her shoulder and began to sing. A hymn of healing, the soft words gliding smoothly out of his mouth.

Piper’s shoulders dropped.

“Oh,” she breathed. “It’s already feeling better…Do you like Nico?”

Will pulled back immediately.

The sudden pull caused a burst of exhaustion throughout Will, but he quickly hid it.

“What?” He asked.

“I’ve seen the way you look at him,” Piper acknowledged. “Plus, the other day when we played volleyball, when you were healing him, you just…looked different.”

Will looked to the side, making sure Nico couldn’t see his blushing face. Thankfully, he and Jason were continuing to train.

“Try moving it,” Will said, gesturing to Piper’s arm, redirecting the conversation.

Piper playfully rolled her eyes, then lifted her arm slowly, testing the range. “It doesn’t hurt anymore,” she admitted. Then she frowned. “But it still feels tired.”

“Good,” Will said. “That means you’re resting it.”

He reached up and adjusted the strap of her armor, loosening it so it wouldn’t tug at her shoulder. “No overhead swings. No forcing it. If it starts aching again, you stop.”

Piper smiled. “Got it!” She said, “And here’s a thank you gift—“

“I don’t need a reward for healing you,” Will laughed.

“Oh, you’ll want this,” she grinned. “Jason!”

Jason paused and hurried over to Piper.

“What’s up?” He asked.

Piper glanced toward the sword racks. “I think I should grab a lighter blade.”

“I’ll help,” Jason said, taking Piper’s sword.

Piper turned towards Will and winked at him.

As Piper and Jason walked off together, Will finally let himself sit back against the bench.

Then he realized the gift she was talking about.

It was now just him and Nico.

Will’s fluttering heart didn’t stop the exhaustion from catching up to him.

The strain of using his powers finally won out, his legs giving slightly as he sank down onto the bench.

He dragged a hand across his forehead, steadying his breathing.

A moment later, a cool hand settled on his shoulder.

Will looked up.

Nico di Angelo stood over him, dark eyes searching his face

“You okay?” Nico asked.

“Uh—Y—Yeah,” Will stammered. “Just the side effects of my healing power.”

“Would water help?” Nico asked.

“Yes,” Will replied.

Nico lightly pushed off Will’s shoulders, going up the benches until he reached Will’s satchel. He grabbed the satchel and climbed back down.

Nico dug through, procuring Will’s canteen, then set the bag beside Will.

“Is this water?” Nico asked.

“Y—Yeah,” Will said, stunned.

Nico just got me water…he’s taking care of—-me, Will realized

Will took the canteen from his hands and drank slowly.

“Thank you, Nico,” he said quietly.

Nico shrugged, but his voice was soft. “No problem.”

Nico stayed where he was, hand still resting lightly on Will’s shoulder, as if making sure he didn’t tip over again.

“You sure?” Nico asked. “You look…kind of pale.”

Will let out a breathy laugh. “Wow. Guess I really do sound like that.”

Nico huffed quietly, the corner of his mouth twitching. “Maybe a little.”

Will took another sip of water, then lowered the canteen, gripping it with both hands like it was anchoring him. The world felt steadier now. Warmer.

“Thanks,” he said again, softer this time. “Most people don’t notice when I overdo it.”

Nico shrugged, gaze drifting briefly back toward the arena where Jason and Piper were comparing blades, their voices low and distracted. They were far enough away now that it felt like the rest of the arena had faded out.

“You always notice when other people do.”

Will blinked at that.

Before he could respond, Nico shifted, lowering himself onto the bench beside him instead of standing over him. Not too close—just close enough that Will could feel the cool of Nico’s presence like shade on a hot day.

They sat like that for a moment.

“I didn’t want to interrupt your training,” Will said, glancing sideways. “I’m fine, really. You can go back.”

Nico shook his head. “Jason will be fine by himself, and Piper’s resting.” He paused. “You’re more important right now,” Nico said, quiet and soft. 

Will’s heart stuttered.

“Oh,” he said, because his brain had completely stopped providing better words.

Nico leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees. “Does it hurt?” He asked.

“No,” Will said. “Just…takes a lot out of me sometimes.”

Nico nodded. “I figured.”

Will looked at him. “You—did?”

“Yeah,” Nico said. “You always push through it anyway.”

Will turned to look at him then. Nico wasn’t staring—just watching, like he always did, observant and steady, like he was filing the moment away.

For once, Will didn’t feel like he had to fill the silence.

“I’m okay now,” Will said eventually. “Promise.”

Nico studied him for another second, then nodded. “Good.” He stood, then hesitated. “But… if you need a minute longer, I can stay.”

Will smiled, warmth blooming in his chest that had nothing to do with his parentage.

“Yeah,” he said. “I’d like that.”

They sat in silence.

“You know,” Nico said after a moment, “that look you had just now.”

Will glanced at him. “Which one?”

“The one where you pretend you’re fine, but you’re actually one wrong breath away from tipping over,” Nico partially laughed.

Will huffed softly. “Wow. You sound like a healer.”

Nico shook his head. “No,” he corrected, “I sound like someone who shadow-travels too much.”

That made Will pause.

“It feels kind of similar,” Nico continued, quieter. “After I do it. Everything just… drops out of me all at once. Like someone unplugged something.”

“Mine’s more like I gave too much away.”

Nico nodded. “Yeah. That makes sense.”

They sat there, the comparison hanging gently between them.

“I usually get cold,” Nico added. “Really cold.”

“I get warm,” Will said automatically. “Dizzy. Like my head’s full of light.”

Nico glanced at him then, just briefly. “Opposites.”

Will smiled, small but real. “Same crash.”

Nico didn’t argue.

For a moment, neither of them spoke. The sounds of metal from the sword racks clinked faintly in the distance, far enough away to feel unreal.

“I—It helps,” Will said eventually, “knowing someone else gets it.”

“Yeah,” Nico replied. “It does.”

Will shifted on the bench. He placed a hand inside one of his pockets, now fidgeting with his bandage.

Something was sitting in his chest: warm and restless. Suddenly, it felt harder to keep it there.

“I just—” he started.

Nico turned his head toward him. “Yeah?”

Will froze.

He could say it. Right now. The words were right there, pressing against his teeth.

I like you.

I care about you.

You matter to me more than you should.

Instead, he let out a breath and looked away, eyes tracing the worn stone beneath his feet.

“I’m really bad at knowing when to stop,” he said instead. “With… anything.”

Nico watched him for a moment, unreadable.

“You stopped,” Nico said quietly. “This time.”

Will glanced back at him, surprised.

Nico shrugged, just slightly. “You sat down. You let someone help you.”

That hit harder than Will expected.

“Yeah,” he murmured. “Guess I did.”

Will swallowed, heart still racing. He opened his mouth again, then closed it, shaking his head with a soft laugh.

“Sorry,” he said. “Ignore me. Healing hangover.”

Nico didn’t smile, but his voice was gentle when he replied, “You don’t sound like someone I’d want to ignore.”

Will’s breath stalled in his chest.

Before he could respond, the sound of footsteps approached. Jason and Piper returned from the weapon racks, Piper laughing about something under her breath.

The moment slipped away, unfinished.

But Nico didn’t move from the bench.

And that felt like something, too.