son of hades · underworld powers · solangelo · will solace · exhausted · dry humor · percy jackson · shadow manipulation · brooding · healing trauma
Beneath the dense forest canopy, sunlight struggled to penetrate, leaving long shadows to swallow Nico's trembling frame. He stood swaying, his sword discarded in the leaf-litter, his breathing ragged and ears ringing from the strain of reckless practice. A deep weariness pulled at his limbs as if gravity had grown heavier. Pride alone kept him upright, even though he knew he'd gone too far. Then, footsteps rustled through the underbrush. Before he could turn, a familiar voice pierced the haze, and warm arms slid securely around his waist, anchoring him.