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When Nico first had his dream about Tartarus, Will was there, and he immediately knew that Will would want to come. He would never allow Nico to go alone, and though it seems like Nico agrees with this, he really doesn’t. Sure, Will may keep him stable, but Nico’s conscience could never drag his sunshine there. Will doesn’t deserve Tartarus. No one deserves to see Tartarus.
So, when Will said he’d come, Nico would feel guilty because he already has a plan in-store to make sure that the son of Apollo stays behind, and though Nico may regret this, he knew it was for the best. He loved Will, and that’s why he’s doing this. Will can never see Tartarus, not if Nico can do anything about it.
~.~.~.~.~
It was the night after Rachel released her prophecy, and Will and Nico decided to talk about it tomorrow. Little did Will know that he’s not even going to remember that Nico exists tomorrow.
Once Will fell asleep, the son of Hades began packing his things, only taking what was essential, before leaving a kiss on Will’s forehead. His heart clenched at the idea of what he was about to do next. A few tears fell from his eyes as he reminded himself that this is for the best, and at that, he found the courage to finally shadow-travel straight to his father’s palace.
~.~.~.~.~
Nico bowed once face to face with Hades, “Father.”
Hades waved his hand dismissively. There seems to be more sadness and weight in the god’s eyes than usual. Nico noticed but chose to ignore it. Gods never were one to express how they feel anyway, “I am here to ask for a request.” Nico said, trying to keep his voice steady as a sob threatened to escape his throat.
Hades nodded, “Is it about your trip to Tartarus? I thought you planned to not approach because as you know, I am against this, prophecy or not.”
Nico winced at the pain that was a cause of betrayal that was evident in his father’s voice. He didn’t expect the god to actually take his actions seriously. Hades truly does find ways to keep surprising his son. Nico managed to shake his head, taking in a deep breath as he said, “I am deeply sorry for going against what you want but I had to do this. My friend is counting on me.”
Pride sparkled in Hades’ eyes for a second before he nodded, “And that is why, I’m not stopping. Not like I’m going to be successful if I did, you were always the stubborn one, but I am actually glad to hear your positive intention, and so, I give you my blessing.”
Nico nodded, shifting nervously from foot to foot as he gripped his backpack. Hades isn’t good with emotion, but he does recognize a few, like how extremely nervous his son is. Not to mention, that the shadows were dancing under his feet as if he was overthinking something, “Is that not why you came here? Is there another reason?”
Nico sighed, looking down, “I- I don’t want Will to follow me, and I was hoping that maybe…” Nico stopped himself, taking a shaky breath, not knowing if he should continue.
It turns out, he didn’t need to because his father’s eyes glinted in realization, “You want that son of Apollo to forget about you, do you? To keep him safe?”
Nico finally looked up, nodding, trying his best to keep up his walls from showing how he truly felt, “Maybe Lethe water could help…?”
Hades shook his head, “You above all should know it’s not fair for him The Lethe would erase everything that he knows, not just you.”
Nico nodded, scolding himself for being this selfish. Maybe he should just jump into Tartarus and hope Will doesn’t follow, which is really highly unlikely. If Nico was stubborn, Will was definitely worse.
Hades had actual concern on his face as he observed his son. He seems to be overthinking things again. As selfish as what he wants sounds up close, it was also selfless. To have the person you loved the most forget about you? It’s one sacrifice not many heroes would do. At that, he got more eager to help his son, but he had to make sure that he’s going to be able to handle it. Especially considering the place he was going to.
So, with that thought, Hades cleared his throat, “Son, are you sure this is what you want?”
Nico looked up, relief, dread, and pain mixed in his expression, “Yes, it's what I want more than anything right now.”
Hades took pity on his son. He could tell that Nico was telling the truth, but he was also holding back tears. Sure, his son was good at building walls, but Hades has always been able to see right through negative emotions, especially with his son. Nevertheless, Hades nodded, “There is a way, and I will help you, but you must promise me something.”
Nico nodded without hesitation, “Anything to keep him safe.” He said, emotionless.
Hades decided to shrink into his normal size so that he was eye-level with his son, “You must come back alive. If you need help, ask for it. I am blessing you with extra power aside from your in-born and ghost king abilities. With this blessing, your powers and stamina will strengthen and will allow you to dream travel and call for anyone, even if you are down there, too far from my reach.”
Nico nodded, then immediately felt a surge of energy coursing through his veins. His body taking up Hades’ blessing. He looked at his father gratefully who still had a stern look, “Don’t be stubborn, and just call for who your heart desires because your heart’s call will be stronger than your mind’s, okay?”
Nico nodded once again, suddenly having the urge to hug his father but restrained himself. Hades noticed this, and offered a handshake, “If I’m going to let my son go down to that pit, then the least I could do is show him even the tiniest bit of affection, right?”
Nico wanted to smile, but the idea of Will not going to remember him whether he survives or not is killing him inside, but of course he kept that in and pulled off a straight face as he shook his father’s hand, “About Will?”
Hades just nodded, “I will talk to Mnemosyne to take Will’s memories of you, that way, she could return it too, if the time comes that you need or ask for it.”
Nico nodded, then swallowed, scared of what he’s about to ask next, but it was how it’s supposed to be, “Can she remove the memory of me from everyone in camp so that no one would remind Will of me?”
Hades hesitated, giving his son a pained glance then nodded, “I guess it’s for the best…” At that he gave Nico a slight push, “I would talk to her now. You should get going too.” Nico nodded, giving his father a final grateful look, realizing how lucky he was to have Hades as his godly parent before finally running off to the edge of Tartarus.
He stared down the edge, just feeling the pit’s pull. He smirked to himself as he finally let some of his tears go. At that, I didn’t even look back, I just jumped, my heart clenching all the way for the gods know how long until I reached the bottom.
~.~.~.~.~
Will found himself waking up in the Hades cabin. As to why he was there, he didn’t really know why. He had a deep ache in his heart saying that he should, but no matter how hard Will racked his brain, he just couldn’t piece it all together.
He looked around, and as he did so, he felt suffocated, as if his heart and mind was trying to find something but he couldn’t quite grasp it because it was too far away or simply taken away from him. He wanted to cry, but he knew it was stupid because why would he even be crying?
His eyes then found a Ramones shirt on the floor. Why was there a shirt here? Will doesn’t recall the Hades cabin having any occupant. Yet somehow, that information was wrong… Will decided to shake it off for now because he probably was just still drowsy from sleep, and his siblings must be looking for him.
So, with one last glance at the Hades Cabin, Will frowned, sighed, then left.
~.~.~.~.~
The goal was to go to Damasen’s hut because it was the only landmark he has right now. Tartarus hasn't changed. What did Nico even expect? Of course, it has not changed, it was still as horrible as it was before, more horrible to him since he could see what the place truly looked like: A body. He was walking in skin like a tiny flea, he stood no chance, but somehow with his father’s blessings, improved fighting skills, and healthier body, he held out better.
At the thought of a healthy body, he’s heart began to clench again, reminding him he got him there in the first place. Nico felt tears, but he immediately wiped them away. He was not going to cry in Tartarus.
He felt a little weak, so he stumbled upon the Plenghton and drank some fiery water. It burned, but he knew he had no choice. As he stood up, his throat felt dry, but his strength came back to him. If Will was here, he would’ve given Nico a full-on check-up already. Nico scold himself for going back down that train of thoughts.
He was so distracted with the thoughts of his boyfriend (could he even still call him that?), that he didn’t notice an empousa sneaking up from behind him, effectively scratching him from behind. Nico hissed, immediately swinging at her and turning her into dust.
But the damage was done, he was injured. He couldn’t reach the injury so he’s going to have to rely on the Plenghton’s water, ambrosia, and maybe some nectar. Once he had drunk and eaten, he realized that none of this would have happened if Will was there watching his back…
At that, a familiar laughter pierced through the air. Dread immediately suffocated Nico… He didn’t want to face her, never again. Yet, there she was standing right in front of him, weeping yet grinning.
“Akhlys.” Nico breathed out shakily.
Akhlys weeped then tilted her head, making her look creepier. At first, she was grinning, but now, she looked unsatisfied, “You used to be perfect.” She said coldly, “ Who did this to you? ”
Nico was shaking, unable to stop his fear of the goddess, “I- I don’t know what you’re talking about. I’m still miserable!” He snapped, and it wasn’t a lie. He just lost the person he loved most to save a friend they’ve left in this horrible place. Then again… Nico could always ask his dad to return Will’s memories when the time came…
Akhlys, “True, but you’ve become happy, have you? Oh, and is that a slither of hope I feel?” She tsked, “That’s unacceptable.” She muttered to herself as if she wasn’t mentally stable, then again, maybe she isn’t. She then went back to grinning, “But! I can always fix you, make you perfect again… Remind you of all the pain, old and new.”
This time, Nico drew his sword in fear even though he knew that he was truly helpless against the goddess, “Stop! Stay away from me.” He tried to say but it came out rather shaky.
The goddess raised her arm, still grinning, “Fear, a great way to start.” Then suddenly, without warning, Nico was tormented by all the memories he tried to block out, both happy and sad, reminding him of the people he loved and lost, causing his heart to ache and clench.
He knew this shouldn't hurt him this much but the logical part of him was lost as he fell to his knees screaming, crying and wallowing in his pain as Akhlys sighed in content, “Pain. Misery. Perfection.”
Could Nico really survive sane the second time around? Nico considered calling for help now but something told him it's still too early… Things are just about to get worse.
~.~.~.~.~
Will hasn’t smiled for days now. By that, he hasn’t truly smiled. Others think that he always does, but in reality, it’s all fake. There’s definitely more behind that smile. It was actually weird because it seemed like it’s been only days since he truly smiled, but in his memories, it’s been years because hasn’t truly smiled since the Battle of Manhattan when he lost too much for him to bear.
So, why did he think it was just a matter of days? He was pretty sure he smiled just a few days back, but he doesn’t really remember why, when, and how. He doesn't understand it, it was like he was missing pieces of his memory, but if that was the case, his siblings would’ve told him, right?
He sighed, having trouble falling asleep in his bed. Yet, another weird thing. It’s not like he sleeps anywhere else but his bed, right? It took him a couple tosses and turns, but eventually he slept, only it wasn’t as sound as he wanted it to be.
Will found himself staring at a vast of darkness, feeling like something- no, someone was calling for him though it wasn’t strong enough so all Will could see was the shadow of a raven haired boy from a distance.
He seems to be drinking fire. Wait what? That doesn’t seem right. Will has only heard that type of story once and it was about- Oh gods, is this boy that’s somehow calling for him now roaming Tartarus? Alone?! Suddenly Will felt an urge to get to him as fast as he could that he didn't quite understand. Who was this boy?
Suddenly, the events that followed came quickly, a monster clawed in his back, kicking Will’s doctor mode into action, only for him to realize that he couldn’t reach the boy even if he tried because this was all a dream.
More like a nightmare. Will’s worst fear was watching people he cared for get hurt and him being so… helpless. He didn’t understand why he thought of this but he’s heart somehow knew that this boy was important to Will, making him sob at his own helplessness.
Will was so deep in thought that he didn’t see the following events until the boy began screaming in pure agony and misery. At this, the connection between them seemed to have strengthened because Will could see Tartarus much better. As soon as things began to clear up, Will just wanted to shrink in the background in fear. It was too much that he couldn’t even describe what he was seeing without cowering in fear.
How did Percy and Annabeth survive this? How is this boy surviving this? Will tried to run towards him, but the harder he tried, the farther the boy seemed to be. Until finally, Will woke up with a gasp, feeling cold despite the sun shining directly at him from his window.
~.~.~.~.~
Nico woke up with a full stomach, as if soup or some kind of medicine was force fed into him while he was asleep. At first, he started to believe that maybe he was back at camp in the infirmary and this was Will’s doing, but as soon as he opened his eyes, that thought only pained his heart.
He did recognize the place. He hasn’t been here, but he heard stories. Before he sat up, he felt his body then realized he felt fully healed physically. He took that as a sign that it’s okay to sit up, and as soon as he did, he saw the person he expected to be there. Or should he say giant… “Damasen.”
Damasen turned to him with worry at first (an expression he never thought he’d see in a giant), then it was replaced by relief, “That’s me.” He answered. He then walked towards me, sitting at the giant chair beside the giant bed that I was laying on, “And you are Bob’s friend, right?”
Nico nodded, feeling safe for the first time ever since he had jumped to Tartarus, “Y-yeah… Is he alright?”
Damasen’s face became cold as soon as he asked, making him regret it immediately, especially after he heard what Damasen had to say, “Tartarus is stirring. He did not take Gaea’s immediate defeat lightly. So, he used Bob as bait, hoping for your two friends to save him, only to spill their blood here, so that he could rise.”
Nico’s eyes widened at the realization, “But Bob was smart enough not to call for Percy and Annabeth…”
Damasen nodded, “You catch up quickly. You should know by now that Tartarus rising would definitely be worse because he rising would mean that all monsters will do too, and they’d possibly be so strong that they're as good as indestructible.”
Dread pooled within Nico’s stomach as the weight of the situation was only starting to crash down on him, “We should stop him then. Take Bob, it’s the best we could do to avoid Tartarus’ uprising.”
Damasen nodded grimly, “I wish we could do more, but right now that’s all we could do. Tartarus is too powerful, especially down here where we’re literally walking on his skin.”
That caused Nico’s skin to tingle in fear, but he kept up a poker face, knowing that he couldn’t afford to be scared right now. Nico managed to stand up, and gripped the hilt of his sword, “All we have to do is save Bob from the grasp of Tartarus, who by the way is the god we’re walking on right now. Piece of cake.”
Damasen smirked at that, “I like your confidence.” He then let out a sigh… “But I could feel your heartache. You were at the mercy of Akhlys when I found you, and there’s only so much I could do to heal you.”
Nico raised his hand, already knowing where this was going, “I get it, not even the best doctors can heal heartaches. No need to be sorry.” But he knew that was a lie. Will Solace was his doctor and he had healed his heartache.
Nico didn’t want to linger longer at that, so, he decided to change the topic, “So, why did you save me?”
Damasen gave me a sad smile, “Because Bob sacrificed himself so that I could escape my father’s wrath. He told me, a friend named Nico would come for him. The least I could do was make sure he gets rescued.”
Nico nodded, feeling sympathy for the giant, but he knew he had no time to express it now. They had to get to Bob as fast as they could, “That means you know where to find him.”
Damasen nodded, obviously grateful at the change of topic. He then gave Nico a wistful smile, “Hey, that girl, Annabeth has told me of her story when we met, maybe you should tell me yours. It may help.”
Nico hesitated, but then realized that his heart was longing to be shared. He needed to open up and without Will or anyone else around, the giant was his best bet. Weirdly enough, he felt comfortable with the idea, “As long as we do it along the way.”
Damasen nodded, as she threw a pack at Nico, then they were on the way. Nico tells everything from Italy to losing his mom, then Bianca, to crushing on Percy, and then sacrificing his love for Will. It hurted retelling the stories, but somehow, it lifted a weight off his shoulder.
Talking to Damasen actually felt nice… Little did they know that Tartarus was already expecting them.
~.~.~.~.~
Will had just finished his shift when it happened. He managed to make it down the stairs of the Big House, when suddenly he heard someone call for him. At first, it was just a gentle whisper as if the caller didn’t have energy left,
“Will.”
It was so soft, Will thought he imagined it, but then the next call came louder. It wasn’t shout, just the average voice,
“William.”
The usage of his full first name got his attention, so he tried to search for the familiar yet distant voice. But no one was there… Why did it make his heart hurt? Why is it so familiar yet he can’t recognize who owns it? Then came the next call… It wasn’t his name, but it was a shout,
“Sunshine, please recognize me…”
At that, Will felt a strong connection calling him from below… That’s when it hit him, the boy from his dream. Whoever he is, he needed Will’s help. Problem was he didn’t know how he’s going to get there.
Will tried to hold onto the connection, but then the connection disappeared, leaving him feeling empty again. Did the boy die? Will hoped not. He somehow knew it wasn’t true, but he couldn’t help but cry, barely noticing that he was on his knees, just a sobbing mess and he didn’t even understand why.
That’s when a dark figure in a cloak that looked to be made of souls loomed over him, “He called for you.” he mused.
Somehow I knew that the god I was facing was Hades, and yet he didn’t scare me. Actually, he only made my heart swell more. As if this god was an important factor on what’s making me feel so unwhole…
The son of Apollo didn’t dwell on that though as the god’s words caught his attention, his thoughts drifting back to the raven haired boy. So, he frantically stood up, bowing before asking, “He…? Do you know the boy that’s been calling me?”
The god smiled as if amused by Will’s straightforwardness, “Not scared of me, I see.” He then offered the blonde a hand, “Prove it. Come with me and I’ll help you.” Will didn’t even hesitate as he accepted the Lord of the Underworld’s hand, then suddenly they dissolved into the shadows.
When they stumbled out, they were in what Will assumed was the Underworld’s Palace. Hades observed him, but Will didn’t show him any signs of weakness. He just stood there with determination on his face.
At that, the Lord of The Underworld actually broke into a smile, “Looks like the heart is stronger even against Mnemosyne.” He muttered.
Will turned to him in confusion, asking “What?” Hades only shook his head, snapping his finger before handing him a pinkish, bluish liquid, “Before I take you to him, you better drink this. It will help with the confusion.”
Will knew that being a demigod means being cautious especially when gods are offering them to drink or eat something. Weirdly though, Will knew that he could trust Hades, and somehow, he could tell that the god was being genuine about wanting to help despite the lack of emotion that he was showing.
So, Will once again, without hesitation obliged. He took the bottle and drank the liquid. As soon as he did, he felt as if he was floating in air, but that only lasted for a few moments before a wave of memories crashed at him, bringing him down to his knees.
~.~.~.~.~
He was at the battle of Manhattan, healing a fallen demigod in the midst of it all, being one of the few combat medics left. He was so focused on his healing that he didn’t even notice a monster approaching him. Fortunately for him, a boy with raven hair, cut the monster into dust. His dark brown eyes looked at me sternly, “Hurry up, and get out of here! I’ll provide you cover for now.”
Will was so thankful for the boy but couldn’t express it at the moment when he realized that his patient needed him.
~.~.~.~.~
Will was spying on the Romans, hiding on one of the bushes with Lou and Cecil, his two closest friends when suddenly, the atmosphere around them went cold. He looked up then held a gasp as he recognized the boy.
He wanted to say thanks a few days after the Battle of Manhattan, but before he could the boy had disappeared. Now, Will was looking at him, making his heart instantly clench at the sight. What had happened to this boy?
That was the moment he decided to make it his mission to help this boy back to health.
~.~.~.~.~
Will was there when the boy stayed in the infirmary. He stayed through the nightmare, even gave the boy a hug even if the boy never wanted it. The boy would eventually lean in though, crying on his shoulder, learning to rely on him more with each nightmare that passed.
~.~.~.~.~
More memories swirled in his mind, until finally Will grasped his name, “Nico.” He breathed out. Suddenly, everything fell into pieces, and everything made sense. He caught his breath, turning to Hades in realization, “Nico, the prophecy- He went to Tartarus alone?!” Will should’ve felt panic or anger even, but he just felt determination. He needed to get to Nico. Soon.
Hades nodded, his expression emotionless, but Will could tell that he’s just as worried, “I’m afraid so. That’s why Persephone had given me this.” He brought out a rose that seemed to glow, “It’s supposed to take you straight to where your heart wants to be. But we’re not sure if it would work as far as Tartarus.”
He handed it to me, “So, son of Apollo, it’s your choice, it’s a risk, but it’s quicker than jumping off the cliff and looking for him.”
Will just wanted to be there and heal Nico if needed already. So, he decided that it’s worth the risk. He took the rose from Hades hand who seemed shocked but nodded in respect towards his bravery, “Just snap the rose in half whenever you’re ready.”
Will knew that he would always be ready to save Nico, no matter what the circumstances were. Even if he was a tad bit angry at the other boy for daring to go on this journey alone. Again. But that was a conversation for later. Right now, his angel needed him, and with that, he snapped the rose.
~.~.~.~.~
Nico never expected that he’s fight with Tartarus would’ve been easy, so when he was defeated and thrown at a cliff only Tartarus knows which part of him it was, he felt bone cracks. He groaned, feeling guilty that he had left Damasen to fend off alone.
Somehow though, despite the fall, he was still alive. It must’ve been Hades’ blessing, giving him more strength. At that, he tried to stand, but as soon as he attempted it, his muscles and bones protested. So, he fell back. Then suddenly, he heard something approaching him from a distance. As he heard it, he knew that even if he tried, he would be in no condition to fend for himself. He wanted to use his last resolve and call out to someone, but he knew that even if he did now, it would be too late. No one would make it to him on time.
Nico gripped his sword as the creature approached despite knowing how helpless he was, only to sigh in relief when he realized that it was a skeleton cat. The cat pounced on him, and Nico couldn’t help but smile. It was trying to communicate with him.
Nico could understand skeletal beings, no matter what type of creature they are. Anyway, this cat was telling him that Bob was below here too, only he was chained. Then up above, he heard Damasen shriek in pain. Nico winced. He had to do something. He had to be capable-, or he just needed someone who is capable.
At that, Nico prayed to all the gods that Damasen would be strong enough until back-up came. If Nico was in a better state, he would’ve over thought about who to call, but right now, he followed his father’s advice and called for the very first person that came to mind… The person that his heart has longed and screamed for ever since leaving for this quest… He called for Will.
~.~.~.~.~
When Will arrived in Tartarus, he didn’t even dare look around because he knew he had no time to be afraid right now. Nico would’ve never called for him, especially after what he did if it was not a last resort and if he was still thinking straight.
Will then realized that he was below some kind of cliff, though he knew that wasn’t what truly this place is, he would rather think that it is just a cliff. Once Will looked down, that’s when fear overwhelmed him, and it wasn’t because of Tartarus. No, it was because he was staring at his boyfriend and he seemed to be dying and fading at the same time.
A skeletal cat stood in front of him, as if keeping guard, “Nico.” Will said, his voice dry. Only then did Will realize that the Tartarus air was doing that to him. He had to do something before he became incapable.
So Will kneeled in front of Nico, reaching for his hands which seemed to be fighting between being too cold or too hot. The cat paid no attention to him, as if sensing that he’s a friend. What worried him though was the amount of broken bones and injuries Nico had. Will gasped, he hasn’t healed anyone worse than this.
But Nico wasn’t just anyone… Nico was, well… Nico. And Will would do anything for him, even risk his own life. At that, Will got to work, doing as much as he could with ambrosia, nectar, and even mortal treatments. When he had no other choice, he didn’t even hesitate to use his powers despite knowing that he was already getting drained, just being there. He will not feel helpless, not when Nico’s life is at stake.
Nico called for Will, and Will wouldn’t let him regret it.
~.~.~.~.~
When Nico was completely healed, Will was completely drained, as he slumped over and laid beside Nico, Nico’s eyes fluttered open, immediately turning to his boyfriend in worry, though he couldn’t help the smile that tugged at his lips, “Will.” He said, feeling good as new.
Nico sat up then looked down at this boyfriend, only for his smile to be replaced by a frown that comes with worry and guilt. Will looked unhealthily pale. Will was never pale. He also had blisters up his arms. When Nico pieced all of it together, he gasped, “You’re an idiot.” He told his boyfriend, tears forming in his eyes.
Will chuckled, his voice too dry for any sound to come out. Though he struggled, he reached his hand up so he could caress Nico’s cheeks while smiling up at him, letting him know that he regrets nothing.
Doesn’t mean that Nico won’t feel bad though. Will was safe, and then Nico called for him. It was selfish but if it was anyone else he called, he wouldn’t be fully healed right now. Will’s eyes began closing which made Nico panic, “Hey, hey, stay with me. Please stay with me.” He managed with tears threatening to fall.
Nico then reached out for the bottle of Plenghton water that Damasen prepared for him. He frantically spilled some into Will’s mouth, hoping it would reach his system. Once Will managed to sit up, Nico then handed him some ambrosia.
As soon as Will took a bite, his blisters disappeared, but he still looked pretty tired and drained, “I’m so sorry.” Nico whispered guiltily.
Will shook his head, “If you didn’t remove my memory, I would’ve followed earlier.”
Nico let out an emotionless chuckle, “That’s why I had to . You don’t deserve to see this.”
Will sighed, never been one to start a fight. He then leaned in for a chaste kiss before saying, “So do you. No one deserves this, but if you choose to face it, then I’ll choose to face it with you. I’ll choose to face anything with you. So, don’t ever wash my memory of you ever again because even without the reminder, I knew something was missing. Probably because I can’t live without you.”
Nico knew it was a weird thing getting all romantic and teary in Tartarus, but Will just had that effect on him. Somehow, he could find it in himself to be happy as long as Will was with him. At that, Nico found the confidence, for the first time in forever to initiate a kiss. It felt nice despite them being in literal hell.
When they pulled away though, Damasen fell into the cliff.
Both boys were immediately on their feet as the giant fell in front of them, groaning. Nico frantically turned to Will, “We have to find Bob.” Will immediately understood. He removed his flannel and wrapped it around his waist before glowing. He was surprised he managed it because he usually only could by thinking positive. He guessed as long as he had Nico, being positive wouldn’t be a problem.
Nico spotted a familiar silver mop of head then pointed towards the Titan, “Bob!” The Titan turned to him with a smile, “Nico! Friend, you came!”
Nico with the skeletal cat immediately ran towards him, cutting the chains with his Stygian sword. The titan hugged Nico, and Nico let out a genuine laugh. Will and an already rising Damasen were about to follow when Tartarus dropped in between them, standing sideways to keep guard at both parties.
“Will!” Nico screamed in alarm, probably due to the fact that they were about to face one of the most powerful gods just when they’re separated. And Will understood why. The god was making Will want to stay there frozen, and just succumb to the idea of dying, but then he saw the fear in Nico’s eyes. He could tell that Nico felt so scared and helpless, but not because of the god between them, but because if the god attacked, he wouldn’t be able to protect Will, and that snapped him out of it.
They didn’t come this far only for them to fail. Damasen stumbled forward, “Let me face my father, young demigod.” But Will raised his hand to stop the giant, giving him a stern look, “You’re too injured to fight. One more strike, and you might as well die, immortal or not, and I’m not going to let that happen.”
Nico’s eyes widened when he realized that Will was planning on facing the god alone, “Will, you can’t!”
The god, Tartarus laughed in the most evil way, “Listen to your friend, son of the sun. You are nothing against me.” It almost made Will want to rethink his options. Almost . But he has had enough of this place and the number of demigods it has broken.
Will clenched his fist, hating that he was seeing fear in Nico’s eyes, the bravest person he ever knew. All they needed to do was escape.
Will gave Nico a glare to serve as a warning not to get in his way. Usually, he doesn’t glare at Nico unless it was for medical reasons and Nico was being stubborn. Though Will doesn’t know what he’s about to do next, he knows that Nico needs to stay back.
Maybe it was Tartarus affecting his mind or the adrenaline speaking, but Will knew that somehow he could deal with Tartarus alone, no matter how scary he seems with his purplish, muscular skin. So, as a demigod with adrenaline, a hero complex, and protectiveness towards his boyfriend, Will let out a battle cry, running towards the god as a surge of energy began to build up in him.
Apparently, Tartarus didn’t think he’d be stupid enough to actually attack, so he stumbled back in shock before regaining his senses. Only when he regained it, a shot of pure sunshine shot out of Will’s hand. The blast was so strong, it actually sent Tartarus flying to the wall, and it was so bright that Will was sure it was going to temporarily blind Tartarus.
At that, Will didn’t even hesitate to run towards Nico who was giving his boyfriend a look of awe. A blush crept into Will’s cheeks when he saw the son of Hades’ reaction, “Uh- Nico, I know your impress, but we need an escape plan.” Will said as he felt the adrenaline in him beginning to drain, and the over usage of his powers catching up to him. He was going to drop anytime soon, but he knew he had to stay conscious just a little bit more.
Damasen stumbled, behind him, nodding, looking at Will in worry. “If we’re going to escape, we have to do it. Now .” He said with all seriousness.
Nico pursed his lips, wanting to hold Will but knew there wasn’t much time. So, he took out a rose that looked the same to the one Will had used, “Persephone gave this to me once for a quest, but I’m not sure if it would work for all five of us, not to consider that where my heart wants to be is here.” He then turned to Will, “Unless…”
Will nodded, his eyes drooping but thinking of the same thing, “We both want to be together, but somewhere else… Maybe home.”
Tatarus began to stir and Nico took that as a sign that it’s time to leave. Nico immediately wrapped an arm around Will before he falls face first, “It’s worth a shot. Hold tight everyone!” He called their friends. Will was barely conscious but he was aware of Damasen holding into his arm tightly.
They all held hands in a rush as Tartarus glared at them, ready to strike, but before he could, Nico snapped the rose, then suddenly the scene of Tartarus became blurry as they successfully escaped.
~.~.~.~.~
When Nico woke up, the first thing he noticed was the familiar scent of disinfectant mixing with strawberries. A smell that could only belong to Camp Half-Blood’s infirmary. The next thing he noticed was that someone was holding his hand, and he has no doubt it was Will.
Nico turned to face his boyfriend who was still sleeping beside him. It seems like two infirmary cots had been placed side by side so that the two could stay beside each other, and after what just happened? They deserved it.
Nico stared at Will for a while, glad that even after everything that has happened, he still wasn’t having nightmares, but he also knew that Tartarus has no mercy. Even if Will has only been there for a short period of time, the fact that he faced the god, Tartarus, himself. Well, he’s bound to get some nightmares.
That should’ve made Nico feel guilty, but Will was right, he chose to go there. So, all Nico could do now is promise that when Will has nightmares, Nico would be there, ready to help him.
Nico smiled before he started to wonder what happened to Damasen, Bob, and Small Bob, did they all make it back too? Nico did hope so or their quest would’ve been in vain.
~.~.~.~.~
Eventually, they found out that they were teleported at the camp’s borders. As soon as they got there, Nico and Will passed out in exhaustion. Tartarus does that to you. Fortunately, Percy and Annabeth were in camp that day, so when they caught sight of Bob and Damasen, they immediately came to their-, our aid.
Anyway, here they are a few weeks later. Will and Nico have fully recovered… Physically . They were in the Hades Cabin about to go to sleep, and in each other’s arms. Both seemed wary of the idea of even closing their eyes.
Will let out a shaky breath, knowing that he had to open up, “I don’t want to sleep, Nico.”
Nico felt a sense of dread, a part of him still blaming himself for calling after Will, “I’m sorry.” He whispered.
Will then gripped Nico tighter, shushing him, “I don’t blame you.” he whispered, but his tone broke Nico because it sounded like he was on the verge of crying.
Nico looked up, and immediately wanted to cry too as he saw Will’s eyes. It’s as if all light has been drained out of him.
That’s when Nico knew he had to be the strong one this time around. He knew that it’s going to take a while before they both fully recover. Even Percy and Annabeth still get nightmares upto this day, but they had each other. Nico then reached up to wipe a tear in Will’s cheeks, giving the son of Apollo a small smile, “I’m here, sunshine, and I’ll always be here every step of the way to recovery. I will never leave you. Never again. ”
Will looked down on the son of Hades, offering him the same sad smile, but feeling more relieved “I know.”
Nico then decided to shift so that this time, Will could be the small spoon because he knew that his boyfriend needed it more right now. Will didn’t even have the energy to object, besides, it’s what he wanted too.
Once Will was leaning into Nico’s chest, he managed a hum of content before saying, “I’ll always be here for you too.”
At that, Nico ran his hand soothingly into Will’s hair, the same thing that Will does to Nico everytime he had a panic attack or woke up from a nightmare. It never failed to calm Nico, and the boy hopes it has the same effect on Will.
A few minutes later he heard the son of Apollo snoring, making the son of Hades smile. It was sad, but it was a smile nonetheless. It still counts. Nico then kissed his boyfriend’s forehead then whispered, “We’re going to be okay.” As he did so, Will snuggled closer, and Nico held tighter.
Sure, it’s going to take time, but like Percy and Annabeth, he and Will had each other. Never again would Nico push Will away because he now sees that his boyfriend was more capable than people give him credit for, and Nico was glad to have such an amazing person always having his back.
At that thought, Nico’s eyes fell heavy. So, he leaned into Will’s hair that smelled of sunshine (if sunshine had a scent), before allowing himself to close his eyes, then drifting into a not-so-dreamless sleep.
It was difficult, but at least this time... They had each other.