The sun above them was merciless — golden rays spilling across the marble steps of the temple that shimmered at the heart of Delphi. Will Solace stood at the top of the hill, hands on his hips, squinting against the brightness. Beside him, Nico di Angelo looked like a shadow misplaced in daylight — black jacket, dark eyes, and an expression that could have frozen lava.

“Remind me again why we couldn’t just send a letter?” Nico muttered, clutching his backpack strap with a little too much tension.

Will laughed softly. “Because my dad doesn’t read letters. He predicts them. He’d probably send one back before you finished writing yours.”

Nico groaned under his breath. “Great. So, we’re meeting a god who’s both omniscient and loud.”

Will turned to him, his grin softening into something gentler. “Hey. He’s also my dad. And he’s going to like you.”

“Will,” Nico deadpanned, “I’m literally the son of Hades. Your dad is the god of the sun, music, and joy. I’m a walking eclipse.”

Will chuckled but reached over to squeeze Nico’s hand. “Then he’ll just have to learn that sometimes, the sun needs a little shade.”

They started walking up the last few steps, the air warm and shimmering. The entrance to the temple was lined with golden laurel leaves and faint music that seemed to hum from the walls themselves. Each note felt alive, pulsing with divine energy that made Nico’s skin prickle.

Inside, the light was almost blinding — until a figure stepped from the glow, tall and radiant, all charm and confidence. Apollo, in casual golden robes that somehow looked like they belonged on a rock star, smiled brightly.

“Will!” Apollo beamed, his voice carrying like a song. “And you’ve brought a guest!”