The Sunlit Stars

Chapter 3: The Campfire

### Chapter 3: The Campfire

Author's Note -:

Salve, Readers!!! Here, I present you the Brand New Chapter of - The Sunlit Stars. I'm sorry for delaying, it's all due to the enormous amount of Holiday Homework I've got, blame it. So , In the chapter , our Neeks (Nico) is finally out of the Infirmary and there's a huge Campfire celebration tonight. Hope you Enjoy.

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Nico's POV

Nico took a deep breath as he stepped out of the infirmary, feeling the sun on his face for the first time in days. Camp Half-Blood was bustling with activity, campers training, chatting, and enjoying the day. He felt a wave of relief wash over him; it was good to be out and about.

Before he left, Will had insisted on a final check-up. "Just making sure you're all set," Will said, his tone light but his eyes serious.

"I'm fine, Will. Really," Nico insisted, trying to be his grumpy self, though he appreciated the concern."Okay, you're free to go," Will finally said, giving Nico a playful smile. "Just don't overdo it, alright? Remember no Underworld-ly things allowed."

Nico rolled his eyes but couldn't help but smile back. "Got it. See you around, Will."He walked towards the mess hall for breakfast, looking forward to seeing his friends again, especially Hazel.

"Nico!" Frank's voice called out. He turned to see Frank and Reyna approaching."Hey, Frank, Reyna," Nico greeted, trying to keep his tone casual."How are you feeling?" Reyna asked, her eyes filled with concern."Better. A lot better," Nico replied with a small smile.Frank grinned. "Glad to hear it. We missed you out here."Nico chuckled. "I missed being out here too."

As they walked together, they talked about the repairs around camp and the plans for the grand bonfire that evening."So, any special plans for tonight?" Nico asked.Reyna shrugged. "Just enjoying the campfire, I guess. It's good to have some normalcy after everything."Frank nodded. "Yeah, and we'll all be there. It's going to be a great night."

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Nico spent the day catching up with friends, feeling more relaxed and happy than he had in a long time. As evening approached, he made his way to the amphitheater for the bonfire. The sky was painted with hues of blue and purple, the perfect backdrop for the event.

He found a spot at the back, hoping to stay out of the spotlight. He scanned the crowd, looking for Hazel, but she was nowhere to be seen yet and he wasn't in any mood to go and sit with anyone else."Mind if I join you?" Will's voice broke into his thoughts.Nico turned and saw Will holding a couple of sticks with marshmallows. "Sure," Nico said, feeling a warmth spread through him.

He thought " Oh ! My Stupid Mind !! You were just protesting to sit with anyone other than Hazel." He pushed the thought aside.Will sat down beside him, handing him a stick. "Thought you might want one.""Thanks," Nico said, taking the stick. They both watched the fire for a moment before Will spoke again.

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