The Nihilos: Trash Player Who Rewrote Reality

Early Morning – Campgrounds

Sunlight peeked through the trees, casting a golden glow across the sleeping camp. Birds chirped lazily, the campfire now a pile of faintly smoking embers.

Ava was already up, brushing her hair beside the tent.

Sol emerged first, yawning like a cat. "Why are we awake again?"

"Because Ms. Hanami said she had a surprise," Ava replied with a smile. "And you two promised to be more social."

From his tent, Raven grumbled something unintelligible but followed them out, still half-asleep.

Ms. Hanami clapped her hands, full of energy despite the hour. "Everyone, good morning! We're going on a short morning adventure! There's a hidden waterfall about two kilometers from here—crystal clear water, perfect for a refreshing dip and some nature exploration."

The class buzzed with excitement. Students threw on shoes and slathered sunscreen.

Sol blinked. "Wait, waterfall? You didn't say anything about getting wet."

Ava poked his side. "Then stay dry and grumpy. I'm going!"

---

The Trail – Midway

The group walked in cheerful packs down the narrow forest trail, sunlight dancing between branches. Ms. Hanami led the way like a tour guide with a sketchbook in hand, pointing out rare flowers and tree markings.

Raven kept to the back of the group, eyes scanning the forest more from habit than worry. Still, for the first time in a long time, it felt... quiet in his head.

Ava slowed to walk beside him. "Hey. You okay from last night?"

"I'm fine," he said.

"You're lying."

"...I'm fine enough."

She smiled and nudged his arm. "Then be fine enough with us."

---

Arrival – Waterfall Clearing

The sound of rushing water grew louder, and then—suddenly—the trees opened up to reveal it.

A beautiful, cascading waterfall fed into a clear natural pool surrounded by smooth stones and soft moss. Light caught in the mist, making tiny rainbows sparkle at its edges.

"Whoa..." someone whispered.

The students burst into cheers and immediately tossed bags aside, dipping toes and splashing like kids.

Sol sat on a rock, squinting at the water. "Feels like a shampoo commercial."

Raven stood at the edge, letting the mist hit his face. It was cold. Sharp. Real.

Ms. Hanami laughed as she handed out fruit snacks and juice boxes. "Fifteen minutes, then we head back! No cliff diving!"

---

Moments Later – Water Games

A group of boys challenged others to a splash war. Ava was caught in the middle, soaking and laughing, face red with joy. Sol got dragged in when someone pushed him with a shout of "Ice prince goes swimming!"

Raven found a dry rock under a tree. For once, he didn't feel the need to run.

Ava ran up to him, dripping. "C'mon! At least dip your feet!"

"I'll pass."

"Party pooper."

Then—Ava slipped. Raven caught her instantly, pulling her upright before she hit the water.

"Whoa." She looked up at him, flushed.

"You're still clumsy," he said.

"You're still overly dramatic."

But neither moved away right away.

---

The Walk Back – Noon

On the trail back, the sun rose higher. Shoes squished, clothes dripped, and backpacks hung heavier with wet towels.

But everyone was smiling. Even Sol, who tried to act annoyed, but secretly pocketed a flower Ava tucked behind his ear.

Raven walked beside them in silence, but this time… it wasn't distant.

It was peace. That will not last...