This story is based off the idea of a one shot I did previously entitled, Farewell, My Dearest Italy. The first chapter is very similar, exact in some parts, to that one shot. However, this will be a full length story. I hope you enjoy.

~Aiko-love-Anime


My Dearest Italy,

I am sorry I left you so suddenly; I wish I did not have to, but a war must be fought and I have been beckoned forth. I must protect what I love, and that is you.

I pray to God every night that you, Italy, never have to see what I have seen, or do what I have done. I want nothing more than to create a world in which you, my dearest, never have to fight. I cannot begin to explain how deeply it pains me to think one day you may have to. I will continue to fight and, even if I shall die, protect you from all the pains and displeasures of our imperfect world. I will never let anyone harm you, my beloved Italy.

I wish not to alarm you, but this war has exceeded the level of severity I had previously thought. If it was not for a recent victory and the enemy's sudden retreat, we would not have made camp for the night and I would not be writing to you. I am sure they will return at dawn. For now my men are resting, and I am writing to you.

There are many things I need to tell you, and many things I need to ask. For now, however, I shall say the most important:

If I should die in this war or disappear, do not weep for me. Take my strength and show the world your smile. Never get angry at what another country does; just forgive them and move on.

Italy, never lose yourself. Do not change who you are for someone else, always be you. Live as the happy and loving country you are. Never stop loving, never stop caring. This world needs more countries, more people, like you.

I pray this night does not end, for if it did not, I would not have to fight. I wish only to return to you, and hold you in my arms again. As I sit here, restless from today's battle, I think of the future when my lips can once again brush yours. If only I could sit and write to you forever, this war would never have to be fought.

But the world is not that kind.

Do not cry for me, I have made you cry too many a time already. Rest in assurance that I am strong and my soldiers are brave, together, there is no enemy too great to be defeated. If you are still restless, pray for me and put your faith in God. He shall protect me in my quest for a better world. Quell your fears, Italy.

It is late, my love. I must retire for the night, for the war will continue in the morning. We will invade enemy territory, it is an unknown area to our side and it shall be dangerous, but in this moment I only wish to think of you. Perhaps I shall dream of you tonight, and perhaps you of me.

I love you, my dearest Italy.

-HRE