Chapter VIII: Just Us


"That's how you know you love someone, I guess, when you can't experience anything without wishing the other person were there to see it, too."
"The Descendants" by Kaui Hart Hemmings


First impression never dies, but they certainly can be altered given an unspecified amount of time.

That was what was processing through the son of Poseidon's head as he – with a neutral expression plastered across his features – reminisced for the umpteenth time the retreating backs of the son of Hades and a certain son of Apollo. In a not so inconspicuous gesture, William Solace would flash a knowing smile at his direction for the past three weeks, with the sole intention of agitating him. Needless to say, the younger male was achieving his intent well as Percy had to click his tongue to repress vocalizing or acting out any displeasing urges.

By all means, William Solace is an absolutely decent and well-educated individual with an equally proper upbringing. The younger male radiated naturally of kindness, was approachable, and presented no hostility with the cheery disposition he possessed. That was his impression of the younger male for the first few days. Until he noticed a pattern to his actions.

Most of the son of Poseidon's itinerary consisted of associating with the suzerain and his council, conducting business, and seeing to it that all which his father had stated were addressed. It was a tiring cycle: breakfast, Apollo, lunch, Apollo, dinner, Apollo, and sleep. During the past three weeks, he had adapted fairly well on the environment which the district offered. It was livelier and he had indulged in a few eccentricities which he persuaded Nico to do so as well; they toured the nearest cities and Percy was educated in the varying cultures that existed. Needless to say, he vaguely feels at ease, as if he were at his home district.

It was with his insistence that Nico was not by his side during his confrontations with the suzerain, partly out of his need to learn to handle these matters independently. But in the rare occasion that a day in his schedule did not consist of an "Apollo time", William Solace would always snatch Niccolò di Angelo before Percy could request for the latter's company.

Initially, he had permitted it with nonchalance, sincerely pleased that the son of Hades had people who could provide him company; preoccupy his mind and entertain him in a positive manner. But that was until he had noticed the knowing smiles that he now interpreted as mockery at this point. It was a week into that arrangement that he started to notice how the son of Apollo only requested Nico's presence before Percy could request for his company. And William Solace was desperate for Nico's presence, muttering one excuse after another, enough for the son of Hades to reluctantly cave in and for Percy to keep mum to himself.

Needless to say, Percy was agitated. But most importantly, he was irritated with himself because Niccolò di Angelo was always looking pointedly at him as if he were requesting his assistance, and Percy would not even utter as much as a single protest to the son of Apollo. Reyna's constant disapproving gaze did not make him feel any better.

Oh, the daughter of Bellona had always been disapproving of him since their first meeting three weeks ago, but her distaste in him was becoming more pronounced with each encounter with William Solace. It was questionable though; she equally had the opportunity to tell the son of Apollo to back off, but she was always looking at Percy with one of her brows arched in a challenging manner. As if she was expecting him to do something that only he could possibly accomplish.

It was not as if he and Nico were becoming increasingly distant once more. When the son of Hades had moved to the room adjacent his, it was with Percy's insistence that Nico come to him should he had those… haunting nightmares – he was unsure how to classify it – once more. The son of Hades had been obviously reluctant, and Percy had to express his disappointment when Nico did the exact opposite of what Percy insisted to him. It was convenient that there was a door connecting their rooms and that Percy was ever inquisitive. That had been an almost sleepless night as he soothed Nico once more, ignoring the younger male when the latter insisted that he was fine and that Percy should return to his bed chambers then.

"Sorry… Forgive me…" Percy heard him utter those words once, like a mantra, and they both knew well that it was not directed to a specific person. In the nights that he was plagued with those horrid dreams, those repetitive apologies were directed to every single life that Nico had claimed or had been incapable of protecting. They were the deaths that stripped parts of Niccolò di Angelo; one of the few countless reasons that had broken him. The deaths had broken Percy as well, but not to the extent that Nico was experiencing.

Nico was not pulling away from him, which Percy perceived as a positive thing. But with the son of Apollo intervening whenever he wanted the son of Hades all for himself, most of their interactions were restricted to Percy disturbing Nico before either turned in for the night. It was mostly casual talk of "How has your day been?" which would gradually evolve to Nico giving a Will-related response. Percy could not express his irritation when Nico would talk of what he had done with Will – Will this, Will that – but he could redirect his irritation to another person. Or persons, to be exact.

Percy was sure Lord Apollo had something to do with this. He was absolutely sure of it.

The sharp prick of pain against his left thigh snapped him back to reality once more. The seamstress gave him a chastising look before she resumed her work, tailoring the apparel which he now adorned. It was an exquisite attire; a coat completely pristine white with fine gold linings and intricate embroidery of laurel which weaved like creeping vines from the hem. It consisted of simply three pieces, with the inner apparel having a plunging v-shaped neckline that exposed his collarbones, and emphasizing his well-defined physique. The attire gleamed under the illumination of the light, giving off an ethereal glow to the person – in this case, him – who adorned it. As hesitant as he had been when the suzerain insisted that he wear a royal attire of the district for the upcoming celebration, Percy was far from questioning how expensive the entire ensemble was. It was a gift, Lord Apollo had stated, and Percy would simply leave it as that.

From the side of the room, Nico and Reyna were leaning against the wall, with the son of Hades observing him intently. The maiden did not seem as interested, choosing to look at the flowing robes which she now adorned with slight distaste.

"What are these celebrations like?" Percy found himself asking, just to fill in the silence within the room. "What am I supposed to expect?"

Surprisingly, Reyna chose to answer.

"They are unnecessarily extravagant, and people would be loud; louder than usual. Expect to see nobles – men and women – clothed either in flamboyant or outrageous attires, trying to outdo one another in hopes of getting their children or themselves betrothed." At this, even the seamstress nodded in agreement. "Maidens, and lords with unmarried daughters would be expecting you to ask them, or their daughters respectively, to offer a dance. Despite calling it a celebration, it mostly is a ploy to get business done."

"By customs, only the men could request to dance with another person. Thus, as soon as you step into the room, they would lock in on you as if you were some fresh meat just to garner for your attention, sire," the seamstress softly added, causing the son of Poseidon to visibly swallow.

"Right. Is there any way to avoid that? I just want to experience the celebration part," Percy mumbled, more so to himself. "I know how nobles take things to extremities when you refuse their suggestion of dancing with their daughters."

"Get a partner for the night," Reyna stated in a monotonous voice. "Even nobles respect pairs who mutually agreed to be partners. Either that or do as I do by learning to project an intimidating and dangerous presence."

"Well, the latter is not going to happen any time soon," Percy stated with utmost certainty, wincing at the probability that he was doomed to spend the entire night on that day, baited from one maiden to another.

"If I may suggest, my lord," the seamstress spoke up, her voice soft. "Why not go with Lord di Angelo?"

The suggestion completely caught the respective occupants of the room off-guard. It was evident in their reactions as a flabbergasted son of Hades had his russet-brown eyes dilated partially out of disbelief and discomfort. Percy was not reacting any better, the color rising to his cheeks and he, a sputtering mess.

The seamstress must have interpreted her suggestion as unwise as she immediately bowed in an apologetic manner, a bright flush dusting her freckled cheeks.

"Ah, that is if Lord di Angelo does not already have a partner, I mean. It is merely a suggestion. I did not meant to assume or imply your preferences. I apologize for my impudence, my lords," the woman breathed shakily, retracting her trembling hands from the third heir's apparel.

"It's all right," Percy hastily answered, offering the distressed seamstress an assuring smile. "We were just surprised by the suggestion."

Percy had to remind himself that this was the district of Ílios, a district which vehemently condones societal hierarchy and irrational perceptions towards the concept of homosexuality. Of course, it was valid for the woman to offer such an innocent suggestion.

Percy hesitantly glanced towards the direction of the son of Hades, only to find the younger male fiddling with his father's ring on his finger. His teeth clenched against his lower lip, and his features were contorted with discomfort. Percy was unsure which had instigated that: the suggestion or the mere prospect of having the son of Poseidon as his companion.

"Do you… Do you have a partner already, Nico?" Percy decided to ask, just so that the discomforting silence would not settle in. "Or perhaps do you have a partner in mind?"

Said son of Hades slowly looked up, russet brown irises transfixed on sea-green eyes. The young man stopped fiddling with his jewelry for a mere few seconds, lips parting hesitantly, before they slipped shut once more.

"I… No. No, to either," the son of Hades cautiously answered, slightly shrugging. "I am not really one to participate in that part of the festivities and the sheer thought that someone might potentially want a dance with me was just highly unlikely. Needless to say, I never entertained the thought of being bothered."

"I do want a full experience," Percy stated, allowing a smile to slowly curl his lips. "But I want to naturally enjoy the night, and that may include the dancing. Just not with an additional hidden intention behind it. I want to enjoy it as much as I can, and to be honest, I want to enjoy it with you since… well…"

"Since?" Nico pressed, arching a brow.

"Well… Since Will always occupied your schedule when I do manage some free time." Percy answered hastily. "May I have your company for the whole day of tomorrow?"

"That is inclusive of the evening ball?"

"Will you be completely mine for one day?" Percy clarified, barely repressing the urge to slap a hand against his mouth as he belatedly realized what he had just uttered.

The hitching of Nico's breath was audible to his ears, and even the seamstress by his feet seemed to settle more and more in discomfort with each passing second. The daughter of Bellona was oddly silent, trying to observe as inconspicuous as possible the exchange that was occurring between the two heirs. There was confliction and trepidation in Niccolò di Angelo's features, as if he were weighing on grasping on the offer or declining it.

"If you would have the cloddish me as your partner, nothing would make me happier," Percy added after a few seconds, honesty dripping from the tone of his voice.

The son of Hades mumbled inaudibly – at least to the son of Poseidon – with his head hung low. A small smile was slowly forming on the young man's lips, curling in what Percy could only deduce as amusement. Before Percy could question what he was mumbling to himself, Nico raised his head and gazed directly at the son of Poseidon.

"If you could promise that you would not step on my feet," the son of Hades conditioned, shifting his footing so that he was depending more on his left feet to stabilize himself.

"Consider that done," Percy readily agreed, a wide smile stretching his lips to the point that it almost ached.

It was not something he could repress; the happiness that immediately bubbled within him when it came to being with the son of Hades. Despite their contradicting personalities, there was no presence in the entirety of Pangaea that could compare to what was solely Niccolò di Angelo's. Sure, they had been isolated on a ship for almost a full two weeks, but those days had been uneventful. On the dry land and in a foreign district, they could indulge in a mini exploration; just the two of them, as it had always been.

Being with Niccolò di Angelo had always offered Percy thrilling experiences, not because of the countless yet harmless messes Percy would drag them to, but because they indulge each other equally with a silent mutual understanding of their limitations. Nico indulged Percy with his mischiefs, and Percy, in return, offered his absolute attention to the younger male when the latter would be caught in his thoughts. The son of Hades was highly intelligent; his knowledge boundless even at a tender age. Nico could share his knowledge and countless stories of different districts and their cultures, and Percy would never tire of hearing them because there would always be that enthusiastic and giddy glimmer in those brown eyes that would reflect the slightest of the innocent child that Nico once was.

"Anyway, is your attire prepared already?" the son of Poseidon inquired after a moment.

The son of Hades casually gestured to the seamstress who simply offered a smile in response.

"Indeed!" the seamstress answered enthusiastically, slowly rising to her full height as she critically assessed the son of Poseidon's ensemble. "If the young lord permits it, you may see it while he adorns it."

"No, he may not," Nico stated firmly, interjecting before Percy could enthusiastically agree. "I will only wear it once more at the celebration tomorrow."

"That's not fair," Percy complained, subconsciously jutting out his lower lip. "You have seen mine."

The son of Hades offered a shrug.

"And it suits you well," Nico pointed out nonchalantly. "But I am not putting on mine until tomorrow. It's too much of a hassle, and it would cause the attire to get all wrinkled."

Percy wanted to argue, but he knew that it would be futile once the son of Hades had his mind set on something. Aside from that, arguing with the younger male with the daughter of Bellona in the same premise as them was just suicidal, Percy concluded.

His bottom lip was still subconsciously jutting out, giving him that image of a kicked baby seal which the rest of the occupants collectively adored. Though Nico and Reyna did so with impassive expressions; the seamstress cooed unabashedly at the sulking son of Poseidon.

"Stop that, Percy. You are not getting your way," Nico stated with an exasperated sigh, crossing his arms against his chest.

"I'm not doing anything. I am honestly sulking," Percy stated with a grunt, similarly crossing his arms as he redirected his pitiful baby seal image completely at the son of Hades.

The seamstress huffed, slapping the crossed arms in a chastising manner as the gesture wrinkled certain parts of the attire, before smoothing the wrinkles once more. Percy observed that the woman was entertained at their exchange to some certain extents, if the fond smile that curved her chapped lips was anything to go by.

A series of knocks resounded from the door but the two young heirs paid no heed to it as they glared defiantly at each other. Neither of the two paid the slightest attention as the door parted open, revealing a young man of shaggy blond hair and vibrant sky blue eyes. Said man eyed the two speculatively, an amused smile curling his lips as his presence was neglected.

"I hope I am not interrupting anything."

Percy winced at the sound of the familiar voice, his expression contorting with displeasure which did not go unnoticed to the son of Hades. The latter's expression became indifferent in a second as he reluctantly acknowledged the newcomer.

"The attire suits you well, Percy," the newcomer stated, a natural smile gracing his lips.

"Thank you, Will," Percy murmured in a low voice, suppressing the bitterness in his tone as much as possible. "What brings you to my room?"

Before the son of Apollo could respond, the son of Hades was already slowly making his way towards the door, knowing that the situation would end in the same manner as it had been for the past three weeks: Will asking for his presence, and Percy merely dismissing them to do as they – actually, Will – pleased. A firm hand grasped his wrist in an iron grip, and Nico halted midstep to glance at the son of Poseidon out of curiosity. Sea-green eyes were not glancing at his direction at all as the son of Poseidon awaited to hear Will's response.

"I heard that Nico was here, and I was wondering if I could have his company for a while," the son of Apollo stated.

There it was again, Percy thought with a frown. The request of the son of Hades' company, followed by complex excuses which Percy would be unable to process. He glanced at the son of Hades who was staring back at him with an expectant look. What Nico was expecting of him, Percy knew not of. But as his silence stretched on for almost a full minute, a look of resignation settled onto those russet-brown eyes once more before Nico tugged at his hand which Percy was still clutching on.

No, he would not allow this. Not once again. They only had a few days remaining in this district; a few more days remaining of their temporary freedom. Once they get back to Thálassa, Nico would be bombarded with his duties just as much as Percy would. He had been foolish, permitting Will to take the son of Hades at every single chance.

"I apologize," Percy hastily stated before the son of Hades could completely pry himself from his grasp. Percy took a deep breath once more, swallowing audibly before starting all over. "I apologize because I actually wanted to request for Nico to accompany me to the town today. That is if he would like to?"

Percy added the last statement hesitantly while his eyes remained transfixed on the son of Hades. Slowly, though perhaps only visible to him, Nico might have genuinely offered a small smile to him for a second.

"My lord, you are my priority after all," Niccolò di Angelo smoothly responded, looking pointedly at the son of Poseidon's hand. Slowly, Percy released his grip on him. "I am sure that whatever you request of me can be handled on another date, Lord William. Right now, I believe that Lord Perseus requests for me."

"Since you are very much intent on these matters being crucial, I would not mind filing in for Niccolò di Angelo's place of discussing these researches with you. I am, so to say, here on Lord Thanatos' request after all," Reyna remarked, her piercing black eyes fixed on the son of Apollo.

"That would not be necessary," Will answered, fixing a smile on his lips though he seemed uneasy at that moment; most likely from the daughter of Bellona's scrutiny. "I hope you have a wonderful day then."

The son of Apollo critically assessed the two male heirs closely for a few seconds, as if he were trying to discern something. When he did not find whatever it was he was searching for, Will lowered his head in a slight bow before exiting the room, closing the door behind him.

Percy did not dare to glance at the son of Hades, his sea-green eyes darting around the room evasively while the seamstress finished her duties. There was no doubt that his companions in the room were currently scrutinizing him, and knowing that was unnerving. The fact that Niccolò di Angelo was but a few feet had him feeling uneasy.

If Nico would speak at that moment, Percy was certain that his line of thoughts were along, "What in my father's name was that?" In truth, Percy did not know it himself.

"I will leave you to dress then. If you would excuse me," Nico murmured before sauntering towards the door that connected their rooms. Reyna headed towards the bedroom door on the other hand, a knowing look in her eyes as she gazed pointedly at the son of Poseidon.

Once the doors closed, Percy loudly exhaled a breath he did not know he was holding in the first place. His shoulders visibly slumped, and his lips were pursed as he hesitantly glanced at the connecting door of their rooms. Nico did not seem displeased at the idea of being in his company, but the son of Hades had never been an open book.

Nico had been formal. That was never a positive thing. The only instances the son of Hades would converse in a formal manner would either be if he was being evasive, presenting himself like a proper heir should, or he was thoroughly displeased. His formality earlier probably was not intended for the second one, so Nico was either being evasive or thoroughly displeased. At who? Percy could not be certain.

"That about does it," the seamstress declared, snapping him out of his musings. "Just be careful removing it so it does not get all wrinkled."

"Thank you, madam," Percy said, bowing low.

The woman simply patted his back in return before excusing herself from the room. Percy heaved a sigh, running a hand through his disheveled hair before he slowly stripped off the extravagant clothing. Well, he had already requested for Nico to accompany him so there really was no use mulling.


Niccolò di Angelo was the embodiment of the perfect heir, and most of the heirs and suzerains acknowledged that fact. Even Thanatos, his half-brother and the current suzerain of Skotádi, would willingly relinquish his position and the entire district under the capable hands of the younger male. He sympathized with the people, and despite his unease of socializing naturally, he was more than capable of stating what needed to be addressed at the right time.

He could never pass for a commoner, Percy concluded to himself as he observed the younger male closely. Disregarding the weapons that were situated by his sides, there was an aura that surrounded the son of Hades which simply would not allow him to be distinguished as nothing less of a noble or a natural born leader. Regardless of the discriminations the young man faced for being an illegitimate child, there was no denying that he is indisputably a son of Lord Hades.

"Percy," Nico called out to him, beckoning him close as they weaved through the people. "If you are feeling unwell, we can go back. You're spacing out. It would be bad if you end up getting lost amongst the crowd."

"Sorry. I was just… lost in thought," Percy excused himself, reaching forward before clasping a hand against the younger male's left wrist. "This is the first time we managed to get out of the palace on our own, and I'm already messing up. I'm really sorry."

"Stop apologizing," the son of Hades grunted, trying to retract his arm from the third heir's grip but to no avail. "What is on your mind? You seemed lost in thought for a moment there."

"Just… random thoughts," Percy offered lamely, glancing away when the son of Hades offered a deadpan look. "Are you sure I'm not imposing on you? I was not sure if you wanted to go to town with me, or if I had forced this upon you."

"You are not imposing on me," Nico stated, shrugging slightly. "That aside, I prefer this compared to what Will has been subjecting me to for the past three weeks. I am a son of Hades, not the son of Athena, and it is Thanatos' duty to learn of all their researches. Not I."

"I know what you mean," Percy murmured, remembering the past three weeks that he had been bombarded by the suzerain and the council. "Let's not discuss those while we are out here. I want us to enjoy our visit while it lasts."

"While it lasts," the son of Hades agreed with a nod.

Some locals who recognized the son of Hades kindly greeted the young man, to which Nico politely returned with his own greeting. At first, Percy had been surprised, but considering that Nico did reside once in the district a few years back, it was not questionable that his identity was recognized by the locals. Many had approached them, some bearing gifts – Percy had a taste of Medovukha, and he had to admit that it had a certain appeal, but he did not see himself becoming an avid drinker.

Amongst the sea of jubilant people and a kaleidoscope of colors from the multiple banners and streamers which adorned the town, they watched countless of street performances and participated in some – people requested that the son of Poseidon sing despite Nico's vehement refusal and warning; they regretted their decision immediately. The embarrassment was well worth it as Percy got to see the son of Hades laugh without any restraint, clearly enjoying himself.

Niccolò di Angelo was nothing short of a prodigy, and Percy was not overstating the fact. The son of Hades possessed an eidetic memory, and Percy was more than satisfied as he observed the people become enamored with the young heir who had easily learned how to play their district instrument, a santouri, in a matter of an hour mostly from observations alone.

By the time they had emerged to a less crowded area of the town, Percy was then carrying a heavy wicker basket with an assortment of packed market goods, endearing trinkets, bouquets of varying yellow flowers, and a whole lot more which he could not collectively classify. There were a few yellow stuffed animals that were peeking at the top – gifts from a few locals for the youngest son of Lord Poseidon. Nico had received a few of his own – gifts for his half-sister and for the current suzerain of Skotádi. The son of Hades had insisted that he and Percy switched – Nico was solely carrying a painted framed portrait of the two of them; a gift from a street painter which Percy eagerly accepted, and declared was to be hung on his bed chambers at Thálassa – but the third heir refused with the valid reasoning that the younger male was much capable of ensuring the safety of the portrait within his grasp.

"Can we go to that jewelry shop? I don't have a gift for Lady Amphitrite yet," Percy questioned as he pointed to a quaint store, trying to flex his shoulders inconspicuously. Unfortunately, the son of Hades still noticed his exhaustion but did not state otherwise.

The energy of the people was absolutely contagious, to the point that the broad grin that curled Percy's lips did not recede despite his exhaustion. The son of Hades expressed his enthusiasm in a much contained manner with a hint of a smile lingering on his lips.

"All right. Is there any specific jewelry that you are looking for?" the son of Hades inquired, matching the son of Poseidon's pace as they walked side by side.

"Something white. It's her preferred color, after all," Percy shrugged, increasing his pace as he felt the strain in his arms. "Do you have any suggestions in mind?"

"Well…"

As soon as they entered the store, the son of Poseidon grunted in appreciation of the dark maple furnishings that were aesthetically pleasing and refreshing to his eyes after the past three weeks. Hastily placing the basket near the glass door, he straightened his posture before groaning softly as he was temporarily relieved of the heavy burden. The son of Hades slowly followed suit, leaning the portrait against the wall so that it was least likely to be damaged.

The owner, an elderly man with sun-kissed hair swept back and warm brown eyes, simply smiled amiably from underneath a beige flat cap and bowed towards their direction, silently offering them privacy. The two heirs respectively offered smiles and bowed respectfully before going about with their current task.

"If you wish to consider the customs of Ílios, then you should know that each jewelry signify individual meanings respectively." Percy nodded at that, gesturing for the younger male to continue as he circled the store, scanning each piece of jewelry. "It is not by color, but more so where you place the jewelry."

"Typically, there are four common jewelries purchased on a regular basis: bracelets, earrings, necklaces and rings. Bracelets and earrings are most appropriate as gifts whereas necklaces and rings are specifically purchased for courtship. Bracelets signify 'eternal companionship' and is popular amongst the younger generation due to the variations by which they exist," the son of Hades explained, trailing behind the older male. "Meanwhile, earrings mean 'I will always listen to you' or 'You are in my mind always'."

Nico gingerly picked up a silver branch cherry blossom earrings with diamond and white pearls, and flashed it to the son of Poseidon. The older male scrutinized the jewelry for a good ten seconds before sheepishly shaking his head. The younger male simply nodded in understanding before placing the accessory back.

"Necklaces originally meant 'I own you' but was changed to 'You are mine' to make it less… brutish. Random fact, gifting chokers of any dark shades is absolutely prohibited in Ílios. I am not entirely sure of the reason, but I heard from before that it was due to the close association to having a rope – a noose – around one's neck, and thus are associated to death. Rings, as is acknowledged across the entire Pangaea, is to signify that one is united in wedlock with another, taking into account that the ring is placed upon the right ring finger," Nico explained, lifting his right hand and pointing at his ring finger for emphasis. "If it is placed on the other fingers, it could signify otherwise and is depending on the person who gifted to you the ring."

Percy nodded as the son of Hades explained further, stating variations of the four common jewelries and the different meanings behind them. His attention was divided between Nico and the accessories, with him gingerly picking up one piece after another. With what the younger male was explaining to him, his choices were limited to the first two types of jewelries.

The son of Poseidon halted midstep, stopping before a wide table with brooches placed in individual glass casings. The design on the brooches and the casings themselves were much ornate compared to the other jewelry; much ornate than the rings themselves. A topaz zircon and crystal rhinestone brooch of what vaguely resembled as an octopus caught his attention. Upon closer inspection, it was an actual resemblance of the animal, but the manner by which it was designed made it appear as if it were a rosebud instead, with elongated vines. With deft fingers, he slowly lifted the casing before picking the exquisite accessory up.

Turning to the son of Hades, he wordlessly pinned it to the younger male's coat, oblivious that his gesture silenced the younger male almost instantaneously. Once he had it pinned, Percy pulled back with a satisfied grin, admiring the brooch which Nico now adorned.

"It suits you. Do brooches have a specific meaning too?" Percy questioned with a smile; a smile that dropped mere seconds after when Nico's aghast expression dawned upon him.

From his peripheral vision, the elderly man who had remained silent since their arrival had a broad knowing smile on his lips. That smile, coupled with the expression on Nico's features, signified only one thing: he did something that he should not have done, and was likely foolish.

The son of Hades gradually regained his composure, and his first reaction was to hastily unfasten the brooch and to place it back where it originally had been. Nico closed the casing cautiously, his hand lingering atop of it, before he withdrew back.

"You could not have known," Nico mumbled repeatedly, mostly to himself. Glancing to the old man, the son of Hades apologetically shook his head, and it seemed that whatever miscommunication existed from his actions was gone; though the elder seemed disappointed.

"Nico, what do brooches mean?" Percy questioned once more in a lowered voice.

The son of Hades almost hesitated before he offered an answer. The surprise in his features was already gone, replaced with a neutral expression.

"Brooches are pinned to the chest area; close to the heart," Nico slowly explained, moving past the brooches to gaze once more at the other jewelries. "Brooches are not commonly purchased, but they harbor a deep meaning just as much. To the giver, brooches mean 'You are always in my heart'. Receiving it would mean that the feelings are mutual, and it holds an unspoken response of 'My heart is yours'. Upon accepting a brooch, one must be gifted in return. That is the custom here in Ílios."

"It's a confession of love?" Percy asked, eyes widening.

Nico shook his head.

"It's a proposal. A marriage proposal," the son of Hades answered, continuing hastily before the son of Poseidon could respond. "Rings unite two individuals permanently. It is just that… the act of gifting brooches is considered highly as well. It stemmed from one of the cultures that the district adopted, and they considered it as a custom ever since Ílios was established."

"Oh. So that's why…" Percy trailed off, glancing at the elder male for just a second before looking away.

"You could not have known. Don't worry of it," Nico easily dismissed the topic; a certain tone in his voice clearly stated that he did not want to talk of it any further, probably to spare either of them from further embarrassment.

The son of Hades randomly picked up a set of three pristine white bangles with ocean-blue linings, wordlessly holding them up for Percy to assess. Sea-green eyes met with russet-brown eyes, and there was a clear message in the latter which Percy could not refuse. Don't apologize. Don't talk. Nico wanted to dismiss the earlier events as if they never occurred.

Suppressing a sigh, Percy shook his head at the accessory, moving on to one set after another as the son of Hades resumed talking once more. They had settled once more in a comfortable environment, but it was evident that neither of them forgot what had happened.

And when Nico exited from the shop, followed a minute or two after by the son of Poseidon who was struggling with their gifts and purchases in tow, what had happened then was wordlessly and forcibly dismissed.


William Solace was a vermin in Niccolò di Angelo's life, and nothing could convince the latter otherwise.

The two of them had been contrasting individuals from the start, like how the light contrasted with the darkness. That was how blatant their difference from each other was. William Solace was an overly optimistic individual that was able to freely indulge in a passion he always desired to pursue. William Solace never shed blood on his hands; he was not a killer unlike Niccolò di Angelo.

Niccolò di Angelo, on the other hand, never possessed a passion; not that he could pursue it either way. His entire life was devoted to ensuring the best for his people in his home district. His entire life was never for himself, but for the welfare of others. There was solely one thing he ever did covet in his life, and that was one thing that he knew he could never come to have. After all, that one thing had been the reason why he disappeared from the son of Poseidon's life for more than two years. Additionally, Niccolò di Angelo, compared to William Solace, was a killer. He had shed blood with his hands for a countless number of times; the metallic viscous liquid was almost a second skin to him.

The only similarity that they possessed was that they were both observant in nature, and that similarity was not so positive in Nico's perspective. The past three weeks had been hell in the presence of the son of Apollo, solely because the blond male pried incessantly of his relations with the son of Poseidon. We're friends, Nico simply stated then, and whether his "we're" meant "we are" or "we were", the son of Hades did not elaborate further. The more he uttered the response, the more he questioned if he was trying to convince himself into believing it. No matter how Nico uttered the same response over and over again, the son of Apollo would not believe and would simply press once more the next instance that they were in each other's company.

Percy may like you more than what you think, Nico, Will repeatedly insisted, and it was Nico's turn to scoff at his statement. That was never a possibility. Only one person had admitted to cherishing him with those feelings, but that was another person never meant to be his. Same-sex relations were considered forbidden in some districts – courtesy of thick-headed suzerains, Nico thought bitterly – and the districts that accept it still faced opposition from people whose firm on the belief that men were solely for women. It did not make the son of Hades feel any better of himself, considering that his attractions had only been to men.

A glossy red apple was wordlessly placed atop of his lap, startling him from his thoughts. Glancing sideways, Nico noticed Percy looking at him with those curious sea-green eyes, most likely wondering what he was brooding on. That's unhealthy, Percy was no doubt chastising him in his mind, as he always did when the son of Hades was caught up with his thoughts.

"How have you liked your stay so far?" Nico casually inquired as he dismissed his former thoughts, redirecting his eyes to the view of the whole town.

They were at the outskirts, with an overview of the capital. The sun was already setting, painting the sky a dyed pomegranate pink that was slowly becoming a chalky mauve. The breeze was cooler at the outskirts, dropping to a temperature that was quite chilling to the bone. Neither minded though, simply basking in the sight of the ever-changing canvas that was of the sky as the sun sets, paving way for stygian darkness.

"I want to come here again without having any business-related matters in tow," the son of Poseidon admitted, rummaging through the basket and taking out an apple for himself. "But… I enjoyed this day. I really did. Thank you for coming with me."

"It was my pleasure. Perhaps in the future, you could return here again, but for leisure," Nico offered, slowly bringing the fruit to his lips before taking a small bite.

"Sure. We'll return here again," Percy concluded, correcting the son of Hades' statement partially before taking a bite from his own apple.

They settled once more comfortably in silence, watching as the sun sets and as the town was gradually filled with an array of bedazzling, colorful lights. The stars were slowly peeking in from the sky, glittering like silver sequins in the night. Ílios was truly like a paradise where they could be bothered to be carefree individuals without the burdens of their positions in the society. At that moment, at the outskirts and by each other's side, they were simply Niccolò di Angelo and Perseus Tzákson; no positions attached to their names.

"I don't want to go back yet," Percy breathed from beside him, twisting the bitten fruit in his hands. "Not to the castle, I mean. Reyna did demand you to be there by dinner."

The son of Hades chuckled at that, knowing that the mere presence of the daughter of Bellona intimidated the son of Poseidon.

"I don't feel like going back home yet," Percy clarified, "I mean, I know it could not be helped. Triton would be coming back there eventually. Give and take three months; just as I have been given. But after a few days, we have no actual reason to stay here anymore and we will be back to our duties again."

"I just don't want us to go back yet. It's been a long while since I have been away from my family; from my responsibilities," Percy said, slightly leaning against the younger male.

"Sooner or later, we would have to go back to your district, Percy. I'm sure that Tyson misses you dearly by now," Nico pointed out, taking another bite of his fruit and chewing on it slowly.

"I know that," Percy huffed. "I know that. I'm torn between staying here and just going home. As much as I love this district, that feeling does not extend to Lord Apollo." And his third son, Percy added mentally, with a bitter note.

The son of Hades chuckled in agreement.

"Well, there is still the future. You – we – could visit once Lord Apollo is on one of his "business" trips," Nico stated, nudging the older male on the shoulder before gesturing at the scenery before them. "But now, enjoy this."

"You're being hopeful," Percy noted, looking at the younger male. "That a future still exists despite the current events."

The son of Hades shook his head.

"I am being overweening and self-assuring that I am capable of making the necessary kills if it ensures that there is a future," Nico admitted without looking at his companion. "I have to be that way if it means that the good people of Ílios – of Skotádi and Thálassa – could secure a good future. I am not fighting for my future; I am fighting for theirs."

"You are not necessarily alone," Percy remarked, carefully placing the fruit in his hands atop the pile on the basket. "I am by your side in this. I just wish that Jason…"

"Please," Nico interjected in a dark tone before he could continue his statement. His eyes hardened along the edges, and Percy could see the immediate coldness that surfaced in them. "Don't. I don't want to ruin this day, Percy."

With that alone, Percy slowly closed his mouth, lips pressing into a firm line. It was not a question that Niccolò di Angelo viciously strayed from any conversations regarding the second son of Zeus, and for good reasons.

With a sigh, the son of Poseidon cautiously grasped the younger male's shoulders, forcing the latter to face his direction before he rummaged once more inside the basket. Nico watched the third heir warily and with curiosity, wondering what the older male was up to.

"You're right. Forget that last statement," Percy murmured, enclosing something on his right fist before turning towards the son of Hades. Without giving the young man a chance to move away, Percy hastily fastened the object in his hand onto the fabric of Nico's tunic that was above his left breast.

"But I meant what I said: I am on your side in this," Percy stated firmly. "And I want you to have that to keep that thought in mind."

Niccolò di Angelo did not have to spare a glance down to check what the object was. The familiar glint of it showed only far too well, and it was with a curious expression that he regarded the son of Poseidon.

"But this…"

"It really suits you well. You can disregard the customs here and treat that as a gift from me to you. And technically, you are not giving me one in return, so the meaning of it should not matter. You have to wear that tomorrow during the ball, or I will sulk the entire time," the son of Poseidon responded with a cheeky grin before lying down, resting his head nonchalantly against the younger male's lap.

"What are you doing?" Nico questioned, looking down at his lap with his eyes wide in surprise.

"Resting on my human pillow," was the innocent response. "We can stay like this for a little longer, right? We would be late for dinner either way, and Reyna would have my head. I want this to be the last thing that I see before she passes judgment onto me. I want this – just us – to last."

When Percy flashed a contagious smile at him, Nico could not repress one of his own. With a playful shove, he shifted the older male to lie sideways to face the town instead before dropping his hands to his sides, clutching on several grass leaves.

"I'll tell her we got carried away in the crowd," the son of Hades murmured, redirecting his attention to the scenery. "I won't allow you to die on me tonight."

Or any other night, Nico thought to himself, sparing a glance at the topaz zircon and crystal rhinestone brooch that rested atop of his heart. He ignored the subtle fluttering of his heart, dismissing all thoughts as he basked in that moment of solely him and the son of Poseidon as Percy freely laughed at his statement, leaning his head back against his warmth.

And if they were to be chastised later, Nico could care less. For in this moment, he was simply content.

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To be continued


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Thank you for reading! Until the next chapter!