A/N It's been a year since I've posted anything on here and since then, I have become intrenched in a whole new fandom. This is my first ever Hetalia fanfic so if you have any feedback on how I can improve, I would love to hear it. Reviews are always much appreciated, even if you hated it.
This is indeed a romance, though this chapter may suggest otherwise. Don't worry all you ItaGer shippers, it's in the works. Trust me. Chapter two will be up by 48 hours.

"So you really have no idea where he is now?"
"Nein sir. The last time we saw him, he was running off towards the forest, shouting something about pull-ups."

Germany sighed, trying to keep himself from flying off the handle on the account of the stupid Italian. How was it that Italy could sneak off in the mere seconds he had his back turned, and stay hidden for a whole hour, yet he couldn't even get within five miles of Allied territory without being caught? Now the morning was wasted and if he couldn't find him soon, the day would be gone, and Germany's schedule would be ruined.

"I suppose I better go out and retrieve him. Will you be able to hold down camp here?"
"Of course sir."
"Danke. If I'm not back by nightfall, send someone out to find me."
"Ja. Good luck Herr Germany."

The officer turned and left, leaving Germany alone to make arrangements for his rescue mission. He entered his tent, his brain tossing between making a list of things he would need and cursing that bastard Italy for forcing him to make this trip in the first place. Maybe it would be easier if he just left him in the forest? No more stress rash, no more sore throats from repeated barking of the same commands and no more pasta-related water shortages. The idea seemed intriguing, but as Germany packed, he knew that despite how frustrating that Italian was, he was his friend, and it was his duty to help him. Slinging his trusted rifle over one shoulder, he pulled back the flap of the tent and reached for his sturdiest boots. Once they were on and tied tightly, he set off into the forest, following the tracks that Italy had left behind. Germany could recognise the tread of those ridiculous fancy boots anywhere.

Around two hours passed and Germany had followed the tracks into the deeper parts of the forest. He was glad, as it had been an unseasonably hot day and the thick foliage of the trees shielded him from the harsh sun. The sensation of cool, dry air on Germany's skin evaporated the stress away and he found that although he had still not found Italy, the urgency to do so was gone. Carefully, he removed his bag and placed it on the forest floor, fishing inside for his water canteen. A five minute break wouldn't be too out of the question. Not that he was tired, it was just a good opportunity to relax, whilst he was in solitude. He sat on the ground, leaned against the trunk of a strong pine tree and let the silence engulf him. So peaceful...So cal-

"HELP! PLEASE! SOMEBODY HELP ME!"

The shrill voice startled Germany for a second, then he off the ground and running, with only a slight delay to grab his rifle. He wasn't sure of the exact location of the noise but he knew for certain the identity of the person emitting it.

"Italy? Just hold on, I'm coming to help you!"
"Gemany? Thank goodness! Quick, you need to save me! Affrettatevi!"

Heart racing, Germany tore through the undergrowth, dodging trees and beating away branches in pursuit of his comrade. All his previous feelings of frustration towards Italy had immediately vanished and, in its place, there remained a cold shot of fear. Whatever this danger was, he had to stay strong and protect Italy no matter what the cost. He just hoped that he would be okay. Please let him be okay...

Soon, Germany reached a small clearing, panting from the exertion he had put his body under. He pulled his rifle from his back and swept the area. No sign of anything. He listened. Checked again. He summoned enough breath and called out.

"Italy?"
"Oh, Germany! I'm up here"
"Are you in danger? What's going on?

He looked up. Sure enough, he saw Italy sitting on one of the wider branches of a great oak, shivering in fear.

"What in Gott's name happened here?"
"Well, I was just walking though the forest when this ferocious beast appeared from nowhere and ran towards me! I climbed up the tree as fast as I could, it was so scary you see, and I screamed out for someone to help me even though I thought it was hopeless then I heard your voice Germany and my heart was happy because I knew you would chase it away for me and I would go on to live another day so I was s-"
"Okay, okay, enough. Where is this beast now then?"
"Ah, fortunately, it ran away!"
"Ah gute. Now come down, we need to g-"
"AHHH! GERMANY! BEHIND YOU, IT'S BACK!"

Germany turned, rifle raised ready to take on this beast. However...

"A boar?"

He lowered his rifle. The boar looked at him calmly. Germany stared back. This boar seemed young and far from ferocious. It took a lazy step in his direction.

"OH NO, HE'S ABOUT TO CHARGE!"

Just as quickly as they had left, the feelings of frustration returned. With reinforcements. Italy had caused a huge uproar over this creature? That damn coward...