Not Again: Heta Oni

Chapter 1: Witness (Italy)

I watched, helpless, as my friends died one by one. That Thing had killed every last one of them, all because I had the stupid idea to come here. And now, I am completely alone. Stranded in the god-forsaken house.

I saw Germany's body go limp, and the life fade from his beautiful blue eyes. Choking back a sob, I run my hand through his hair.

"Oh, Ludwig... If only you knew how much I loved you.." I can feel my eyes growing heavy with tears. "You and him were so alike.. Your kind, but stern gazes, strong wills and determined personalities.. It's almost as if you were the same person.." Almost overwhelmed, I let a few tears escape. "You even left me all alone, just as he did all those years ago... You both broke your promise.."

Leaning over his cold, dead body, I gently brush my lips againt his. There is no life behind them, but the kiss doesn't mean anything less. I pull away, and hold his lifeless hand in my own.

"You will always be my best friend.." I whisper.

Not able to fight back the tears any longer, I lay my head where his heart is. There's no longer that rhythmic beating here to sooth me. He's really gone, I really am alone...

. . .

Struggling to my feet, I lift Ludwig off the floor and carry him up to the bunker. I sigh, pain washing through me as I enter the silent room. 'He had worked so hard to build this place, in hopes that we would be safe here. But in the end it was hopeless... And to think, just awhile ago, everyone was here, planning whar we would do after we escaped.' The once bustling room now seemed like a wasteland. Everyone was still here, in a sense. They all lay in the cots, just as limp and lifeless as Ludwig, if not more. At a first glance, one might think that they were merely sleeping. But I knew the truth, and I wanted to fix it. No matter how many times it takes, I will get them out of here alive. I will his game.