America settled himself on the porch of the aged farmhouse that provided the group with shelter. He looked past the split rail fence that enclosed the property and over to the valley that fell beneath the hill that the farmhouse rested on. He observed how nature proceeded, untouched by the monumental loss of human life. Although America hated to admit, having his land return to its original beauty was awe-inspiring. Yet the lack of citizens rendered him hollow and the change grotesquely gorgeous.
"It seems that I've missed the sunrise."
America turned to see that France's younger sister Luxembourg had joined him outside.
"Don't worry," he hummed. "There's always tomorrow!"
Luxembourg's eyes told that she wasn't as confident in America's assumption but her face softened.
"There's always tomorrow." Silence filled the air as she turned her attention back towards the valley.
America didn't often have the chance to carry a conversation with Luxembourg pre-apocalypse. Due to her being a small yet successful country that didn't involve herself in other countries affairs she never found it necessary to attend World Summit meetings.
He coughed and patted the metal bench he was sitting on, "Would you like to grab a seat?"
Luxembourg paused but ultimately shook her head, "Everyone should be outside soon to start patrol and chores. No reason to get comfortable."
The knock of the screen door brought their attention to the group piling out of the doorway.
"Katherine!" France was instantly at his sister's side, "I thought you were still inside the house." He then glanced over at America.
"Good morning."
America held up his hand and gave a small wave, "Mornin'."
France turned back to Luxembourg and started to steer her off the porch.
"We should go before that english frog makes an appearance." Heading towards the forest France called out a good-bye and traveled farther in as England made his way onto the porch.
England's hair had yet to be combed, the zipper on his jeans had been forgotten, and he was fumbling with his unbuttoned shirt. All of which was uncharacteristic for the tidy Englishmen.
"You alright, Artie?"
England furrowed his eyebrows as the last button refused to follow through its designated slit, "Yes, I'm quite alright. Just overslept is all."
When England finally slipped the button through and gave himself a pat down he looked over at America, "Shall we get started then?"
America stood from the bench, stretched, and followed England to their patrol site.