A/N: LO SIENTO! I'm so freakishly sorry this took a while but I discovered that my teachers are trying to hide the fact that there's only 4 weeks left of school by sugar coating the crap-load of assignments they're giving me with a smile and going "good luck!". Do they not have a life? I chose the wrong time to start posting this stuff.

I'm not too hot about this chapter. To me its really choppy because I worked on it at school with my iTouch and at home with my laptop so there were a lot of pieces that were just here and there until I tried to fix it. I almost wanted to erase the whole thing and start over but this chapter was tricky from the beginning. Augh, I'm just happy I got it out, I should be able to get other chapters to run nicely but I won't guarantee they'll come quick until school's over.

Disclaimer: Don't own Hetalia or its characters.


Chapter 3-
Dead White

"Now remember, just because I'll be gone for a couple of years doesn't mean I won't come back. So as much as it kills you to want to throw some sort of par-tay, you can't. No bringing your friends to terrorize the human race. No human experimentation. No bringing any biohazard chemicals to screw up the ecosystem. No abducting cows; if you want milk or beef just go to a thrift store or something. And then I have all these other things I need you to make sure happens…"

Night engulfed the sky with its rich beautiful stars and a crescent moon. The ocean mirrored the colored dots above it and the city that held a small fraction of the people ready to embark on a trip of their life-time. The lights from the docks flashed along metallic machinery that rested in the ocean. Its size was wide and incredibly enormous with an alien shape that seemed suitable to escape the atmospheric shield around the Earth. Children ran about with their parents pointing at the structure they've only scene in movies and from novels of history books. Their eager faces matched several other people who walked aboard the ship. At the entrance machines and stewardess worked double time to make sure that the passengers boarding the ship were those on an approval list. Down the steel walkway on the boardwalk several people took pictures and others were giving a farewell to their family.

Amongst the crowd are also countries leaving. Several gave their farewells such as the Italian brothers. Italy couldn't seem to stop crying and jumping over his brother, whining for him to call every night as he held onto Germany's hand. Romano blushes at three most likely things; his equally sad feelings to how his brother is leaving, the fact that Italy won't let go of both men and that Germany is trying not to seem to stare at the scene. As much as Romano wants to act like the toughest man he can't seem to choke up any words and lets Italy clasped him tightly. Spain stands near-by, watching the departure and whispers small comments to France. They both had started talking about keeping a tight contact about what happens in their neighborhoods to but when Italy broke out in hugs their attention was pulled to the twins.

Japan, Vietnam and Taiwan listen to the farewell words of their ancient sibling China and nodded in plentiful moments; well at least Vietnam and Japan did. Taiwan waves off all the words edging close to Japan and silently wishing for them to aboard the ship quickly. In between sentences China brings Hong Kong up to them and leaves their arms with baskets of home-made goods. The three look at each other before giving thanks and listen in on the never ending lecture of China's.

Not far from the five Asian countries does Russia stand with the Baltics and his sisters. It's a little difficult to make new words since Russia had experienced the same farewell a few hundred years ago so he instead explains several minor events that he remembers placing in the back of his mind. Of course Belarus is latched to his arm wanting her boss to decide to leave but sadly it had not come true. It doesn't seem like it will anytime soon. Ukraine remains slightly less attentive then the Baltics who stand with great posture and piercing eyes. They recite every word the Russian says and make sure not to miss a thing but Ukraine keeps her mind wandering. She wanted to find an opportunity to catch her brother without the others.

Just a few feet off Canada is pulling down luggage with England and notices that his twin brother brought Tony along. Was he talking to him this whole time?

"...keep the fridge close too, alright? And I think Puerto Rico said he might visit a few times. His bed time is ten. Ten-thirty at the latest. No doing stuff with him either no matter how curious he thinks whatever invention you make up looks like. Um…" America pushes his hand over his mouth pondering over if he missed anything important to report to Tony. "I think that's it. Got it?" Tony nods with a clicking response. "Oh, and you can visit anytime you want too! If I happen to find any alien babes too I'll be sure to tell you." America winks at the alien who gives off a small chuckle.

"Send me pictures." He responds almost as a command.

"You got it!" The two knuckle punch each other in their proud moment.

"America." England hissed approaching the country soured face. "Plan on assisting your brother and I with the luggage?" He hollered over the roar of the crowd.

"Just get one of the stewardesses to take it." America replied pulling the luggage over his brother's shoulders down and slamming it to the floor.

Canada stretched his back giving out a cracking noise. "Augh!" He complained. "That really hurt."

"Pft, come on it's not even that heavy."

"Then why don't you take the luggage to our room, hm?" England asked.

"I don't see why I should when I can ask perfectly good, hardworking and paid employees to do it." America said pointing out a family that happened to have a few employees taking their luggage.

"Then go fetch us one and we'll supervise the luggage." England requested in a more demanding tone.

America scoffed. "Why do I have to? It's not my stuff."

"Are you telling me that there's a job, something as simple as just requesting for assistance that the United States of America cannot do?"

Canada tried to intervene. "Um, guys I can-"

"Oh no, I know that trick and I'm sure as hell not falling for it."

"G-guys..."

"I'm certainly doing nothing except pointing out a fact. I mean after all it is just a simple job." England stated in a face that exposed cockiness.

"Guys-"

America frowned. "Well if it's so simple why don't you do it? Can't you see I'm having an engaging conversation and would like to not be disturbed?"

"Oh forget it!" Canada hollered waving his hand and having no intention of being noticed by the two. He left the luggage to be supervised by his arguing brothers to try to find someone who could help.

Not far off where Canada walked did Ukraine stand gripping over the ledge of the wall from the boardwalk. The ocean breeze stroked across the short locks that hung over her ears. She had tried to get her brother's attention to speak about what was on her mind but the words choked up and died in her throat. She knew at some point she was going to have to speak up and right now was better than ever. Latvia offered a comment that Ukraine could sense made the Baltics tense. Russia was quiet for a moment holding a large grin which soon released a booming laughter. The other two laughed nervously as Russia patted the boy's head and ruffled his hair. Latvia looked terrified even with his silhouette covering his face because of artificial light. The tense grew a little lighter when Russia began speaking. Ukraine looked at the crowd and saw that the large blob of people that were at the check-in became multiple short, handled lines. She had to talk to him now. Ukraine tugged at her brother's sleeve and held her hands into tight fists taking in a deep breath.

"Yes Ukraine?" Russia said cutting himself off of whatever subject he brought up.

Ukraine tightened her hands under the rim of her shirt and tried to reach her brother's height. "C-can I talk to you a-alone Vanya?" She asked.

Russia looked at her expression to see that whatever she wanted to talk about was serious. The country stood up straight with a smile. "Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia."

"Yes Russia?" They responded in sync.

"Do you mind giving me a moment?" Russia requested in a soft tone.

Lithuania, as always, was the one to represent the Baltic countries' answers to Russia. "Yes, of course."

"Do not wander far though. It will only take a minute." He said pulling out his wallet.

"We won't."

The boys walked patiently into the crowd, blending and lingering against people until Estonia began walking them to a group of tourists to be out of sight. Once the boys were out of the blanket of light from the town Russia took out a few colored Euros from his wallet and waved it to his younger sister. "Belarus I'm quite parched. Will you please purchase something for me to drink?"

"Yes. Anything for my dearest brother." The girl said taking the cash. The frills of her dress flapped in the wind as she gracefully headed to a close shop.

Russia looked back to his eldest sister with a small expression. "Yes сестра? What seems to be on your mind?"

"Well..." Ukraine stroked her bangs and swallowed. "I was thinking a bit about that thing you told me a week ago. I... I just wanted to wish you luck and if anything does happen I will do what I can to help. But... are you sure you want to keep this a secret between us two?"

Russia stroked the side of her hand encouraging her look at him. "It's wonderful to know you worry but I don't see much harm in what I've been going through. It might just be a simple faze that will pass by soon enough. After all, we are extending rage onto a new planet. I am not at all surprised that something strange would come up."

Ukraine scratched at the side of her pant leg as she considered the words. "Very well. If you are positive that you'll be fine."

The ship illuminated brighter as speakers across the front entrance announced their need for the final passengers to aboard soon. The siblings stared at the blinding lights before turning their gazes to each other. Russia took his hand that rested over her hand and placed it on the edge of her shoulder. He bent down slightly to kiss her over the forehead and gave her a tight hug.

"Brother."

The two pulled away slightly seeing that Belarus had come back with bottled water. Russia took it, flashing a genuine yet small smile. He embraced his younger sister offering a few farewell words and promises to call her. Belarus tried to convince her brother to stay longer, if possible forever, but Russia had to turn down all the flattering though unnecessary promises. Somewhere in between the country's begging the Baltic countries returned as soon as they heard the boarding of the final passengers was now. Russia felt repetitive at giving his farewells, they almost mimicked the words he said the first time he left. It nearly made him want to cry. At least this time he had company. The group walked with Russia across the steal walkway to the front of the ship. Its front had two thick, long glass windows stretched from the bottom to the top a few hundred yards. An arch stretched in between the glass where the name of the ship was painted over. Yards under were the entrance doors, incredibly smaller than the ship itself. Employees stood behind a class container asking people to slip in their I.D. cards to identify their families. A green light would flash and open a thick metal door into a lobby filled with luxury. Above a dome of glass revealed the glorious night sky. A fountain gracefully transferred water through many pipes that ran through stone carved statues. A curved walk way held up to two dozen elevators that opened and closed constantly to bring people to any floor they desired, whether it was the one that held their room or one for entertainment. Passed the elevators the room stretched long and wide with mobile stores and business.

After Russia had gone in he found himself in an Italian café with many of its consumers being Italian themselves. He sat at a corner table in the restaurant, staring at a laptop screen he pulled out from his bag. The doors to the ship closed not too long ago now allowing the huge machinery to begin to move deep out into the sea whenever it's pilots' desired for it. He watched the progress of the ship's current status; oxygen measurement, gravity pressure, electronic progress, energy levels, etc. All looked stable. Russia stared at his fingers that rested on the table. The light caught a piece material from the watch he wore causing Russia to glance at it. Midnight was less than forty-five minutes away. He probably shouldn't worry about the ship's condition until they finally hit lift off.

"Russia!" The happy-go-lucky voice pierced through the crowds' glob of voices and music that blended in. A thin, very familiar Italian boy with a strand of hair sticking out of his brown locks ran to the Russian with a more than a happy face. "Chao Russia! Funny to see you in a place like this!"

Russia hummed when he smiled. "Does that mean I stick out in the crowd?"

"Oh..." Italy stopped when he reached the table that was occupied. "Oh no! I didn't mean it like that! I just didn't think you liked places like this."

"Not like a place like this?" The country seemed baffled. "You have it all wrong Italy. Your culture fascinates me. I do really enjoy being surrounded by it."

"That's great! Grazie!" Italy chirped with a blush.

Russia held out his hand to the empty chair the Italian stood next to. "Sit, пожалуйста. It's been a long week for us countries."

"Yeah," Italy slid the chair back to easily fitting himself over the seat. "So where's America? I saw him come in here looking really happy."

"If I had to guess I would say he is where the control room is. I know he has wanted to see how this ship works during the real lift off." Russia smiled. He'd need to find the country soon now that Italy brought it up.

Italy beamed. "That sounds like him! He's been really happy to be able to leave. I mean this whole space ship-thingey is really amazing too! I didn't think it'd be anything like this."

"Da, it is amazing." Russia gave out a long yawn having to cover his mouth. A low moan escaped his lips. "Извините."

The boy laughed. "I think you're a little sleepy right now Russia."

His accusation left Russia chuckling. "You may be right."

"Want me to walk you to your room?" Italy offered.

Another yawn, much longer than the previous came out of Russia's mouth. He waved his hand. "Nyet, I'll be fine. I have no plans of returning to my room anytime soon."

"Ve~!Ve~!" Italy jumped off his seat and glanced at the front counter. "Then if you're going to stay up I'll get you something to help you stay up."

"There really is no need to Italy." Russia felt a little flustered at the boy's generosity though he should have known better of Italy's actions.

The Italian waved his hand while cranking out a sweet smile. "Non ti preoccupare. It's no problem! I was going to get something to drink anyways. Be back soon!"

Russia wasn't too concerned of the boy's absence although his droopy eyes made him wonder if he'd grow conscious to the world as soon as the nation came back. He supposed that maybe just maybe, a little nap wouldn't be such a problem. The public as too occupied with their new lives. Who would disturb a man amongst others if he slept? Russia took his final vicious rub against his eyes before interlacing his fingers, leaving his upper chest and head to lie on the table.

Just a quick nap.

-X-

America could have sworn he had ADHD as soon as he stepped foot in the control room because he was all over the shiny buttons, holographic screens and beeping knobs. Sure he'd gone through a load of simulations with the same buttons and screens and such but God! Seeing this stuff in action was cool. America really had to admit he was being a nerd in between his giddy feelings. He hovered over the pilots that came up to three main drivers and two assistances for each. At some point through America's constant interrogations the pilots asked for him to take a seat next to the monitors until they finally left the Earth's range in atmosphere. The nation had to listen of course because he knew his boss would be contacted by these pilots for being a harassment or something.

The ship began to rumble as the pilots talked to each other with huge words that America translated easily. They slipped fingers across buttons and latches like they had every notch memorized and needed them synchronized. America swayed side to side on his seat watching the monitors that recorded scenes from the main wired structures in the ship and every entrance to the ship. All doors and windows were closed. Everything was secured enough that green lights glistened over a steel plate. The pilots checked at more buttons that led America to lean towards them. At the front end of all the mechanical instruments was a wide window revealing the slow movement of the ship.

The rumble ended when the ship eased miles into the ocean. America looked down at his wrist where he mindlessly rubbed a perfect black circle. That day he decided to throw a punch at Russia (which now that he thought of it was kind of stupid but he was never going to admit it) he left with a severely damaged hand. It wasn't broken but the nerves were crippled. Lithuania and Canada took him to the hospital where they implanted the thin disk under his skin. It was a strange little device that sent out creatures America loved to describe to kids as "mini doctors that won't stop until they know you're healthy again". Right now the little instruments were doing just that and America's hand was healing a faster than if he let it heal on its own. The disk would be removed very soon and his hand will be fine once more. America couldn't help though but smile when Russia saw the dark circle over his wrist. He had to throw out all these statements that America brushed off easily from his years of practice with England. America would just look like he was ashamed of himself and give low hummed noises to show that he was "agreeing" to Russia's judgment. It was that simple.

One pilot spoke through the microphone that presented itself from the side of his chair. He announced that the passengers should take it easy as they begin to lift from the sea and edge to the sky. The microphone hid itself in the seat, sliding back as soon as the pilot began his instructions for the ship's ascend. America leaned at an angle, eager to see what was going on. The ship slowly started forward but at a slight angle to this point. America stood to watch the deep dark blue sea hide as they went up. The pilot called to ease on their angle. Maybe through two minutes they had successfully lifted themselves from the sea and were lifted into the sky. The crew announced their conditions they monitored, giving the okay to continue on at some points of their scanning. America grinned when he looked at the monitor that revealed the end of the ship coughing out fire above the water.

They were now flying in the air.

The ship was slow but it managed to break its way through the first layer of atmospheric gases and into the stratosphere. America had been occupied looking out the window and into the outer skies of space. He connected stars and constructed the constellations he knew in his mind. It was all so magnificent; the little dots in space that pierced through a black sheet, all glittering like they wanted to grab attention.

America didn't feel a sudden rumble and maybe even a jerk that startled the pilots. They briefly checked their status pieces when one pilot caught glimpse of the blueprints of the ship on a flat screen. There was a warning sign that shaded a piece of the ship the color red.

"Get the men in section 24, lower deck." The main pilot ordered.

"What's going on?" America asked placing a hand on the head of the pilot's seat.

"I'm not sure, may be a malfunction of some sort."

One of the co-pilots pulled out a screen on a side wall. The echoes of clanking and people shouting or running boomed into the cock-pit. All the men looked curiously at the screen when one official came to grasp his end of the monitor with gasping breathes.

"Hello pilots," The man said with an accent somewhere of Europe.

"What's going on down there?" The main pilot asked.

"Yeah," America interfered. "We have to get this ship out of two more atmospheres and we can't do it with one piece not working. Everything's gotta be in check and tip-top shape."

"It's nothing big," the man reassured, "there just happened to be extra storage that won't calm down."

"What do you mean?" One of the co-pilots asked.

Something white flapped across the screen and gave out a cry. It wasn't shrill or harsh. In fact, it sounded like the call of a certain bird. One man shouted out that he captured the bird and walked to the monitor with a wide, devious grin.

America blinked. "What's that doing on the ship?"

-X-

Russia inhaled with a harsh tone. He pulled his shoulders up first before sliding fingers across his hair. Italy nearly skipped with two cups in his hands. The table was slammed with the cups making the Russian nation flinch a bit.

"Sorry I came a little late!" Italy sang. "There was a really nice girl that started talking to me and she was really funny and she has this cute dog too that is really soft and fluffy and- Oh! Sorry, I'm just talking aren't I?"

"I do not mind." Russia smiled. "It's fine."

Italy slid the cup to his friend and sat down on a chair next to the larger man. He took in his own beverage before tapping his fingers to the cup. "Um. Russia…"

"Hm?"

"How come America got hurt when he punched you that day in the meeting we had about a week ago? I thought you two were pretty strong and it didn't seem to hurt you at all." Italy shuffled his fingers over the cup before continuing. "I know you were talking about how living on Mars changed how you are but… I don't really get it that much."

"Oh?" Russia cocked his head giving the country a small grin.

Italy chewed his bottom lip. "I feel stupid asking that. I think everyone in the room knew what you were talking about but it was kinda hard to follow for me."

"Nyet. Nyet. It's all fine Italy. I honestly had no intention of having you understanding such complex systems." The country chuckled. "To be honest, I don't think most of the countries understood what it was that I was saying during my whole speech."

"Really?" Italy asked with a more cheerful face.

It was true, a lot of the countries may have appeared to understand every exact word the Russian used in his dialogue but even he had to learn how to correctly format the formulas and properties used to construct his new home which took many years. He didn't mind the extra knowledge. It was very interesting to him in all.

"Then what did happen?"

" Well…" Russia blinked mindlessly at a lamp hanging from the ceiling. There was no way he could describe in simple words the purpose of the metallic layer that was made to cover Mars is order to control erosion and oxygen percentage that was meant to withhold the human race along with its main purpose of creating a light source, construction of an artificial ozone and dominating gravitational regulation throughout the planet. Russia gave low hums in hopes that Italy would grow distracted as he tried to think of a simple but informative way to explain the situation. It was quite amusing that he found himself struggling like this. For most people they could understand a few things and Russia would explain the little details that they might question. Not America though. For the most part he was the one doing all the explaining. That was probably one of the many things that Russia adored of his boyfriend. The two could have endless talks and discussions of things that others would find to be an unknown language. The humor was between each other when they went back and forth on statistics. It made Russia blush a little thinking about how special America was to him.

"Russia?"

The country shook his head out of the fantasies he carried. He cleared his throat. "Do you remember how people built houses back in the 2000s Italy?"

"Yeah!" He chirped.

"It's almost like that." Russia said. "At first, the house had something to hold it up and then people began to construct wood and fabric pieces and concrete, layer by layer. Right?"

"Yep, it's what helps keep the house standing."

"Precisely," Russia said. This was simpler than he thought. "Now the house is very sturdy and people can live in it but it's not impervious. It can still be knocked down if something crashes into it or if there is an earthquake or other disasters." Italy nodded. "That was then, although now most houses are generally impervious because of all the layers we made for it. So that would be like me. All us nations started off as well constructed houses but we could get hurt still, then just as I made a more firm construction on Mars is like the brand new houses we started to make."

"And because you're like the new houses you can't get really hurt but because we are the old houses we still can?" Italy struggled to clarify.

Russia nodded.

"And then when we start living on Mars we'll be like the new houses."

Another nod.

Italy began to cheer and clap. "That's really cool!"

The two laughed, Italy enjoying the fact that he may be stronger if what Russia was saying was true and Russia amused at the Italian's understanding. The country gave another yawn before closing his mouth snap shut and rubbing a finger across his forehead to the side of his eye.

"It was a pleasure to talk with you Italy, as always." Italy quirked his head when Russia said, "But I think I'll be returning to my bedroom."

"Okay!" The nation chirped. "Have a good night sleep!"

"And you have a good night." The nation nodded after he stood once gathering his laptop. He left the Italian who quickly started a conversation with a pair of girls giggling a table across.

The halls were incredible with large pillars extended high to a fake frame that played the sight of the night sky. Dim lights on walls and pillars scanned through the halls nonstop. There were few people who lingered around the halls when Russia passed by; some wandered, some just kept still and chatted. Doors passed by with a window next to them, one by one when Russia turned to a separate, much smaller hall. He read the numbers through drowsy eyes finding his room down several other halls down, into a circular room. The door unlocked when Russia slid over a card to a thin slit under the doorknob. His head blurred when a yawn broke out. It was a curious thing as to why he was so sleepy all of a sudden. A few couple of steps into his room and Russia noticed something in his room that he hadn't requested to be placed in here.

A white, very round bird perched over a bouquet of white and yellow flowers.

Russia stared for a countless moment pondering over the question of whether the bird was a hallucination from his exhaustion or it came unexpectedly. The bird cooed with pitch black eyes staring at the country. Russia closed the door slowly and left his laptop on a counter, instantly deciding to take a few steps towards the bird. It watched him approach with caution, cooed a few more and then held still. Russia did the same.

"How did you get here?" Russia mumbled to the bird.

warned you… now am watching you…

The room filled itself with a stuffy cold feeling. Russia brushed his ear where he swore a voice spoke to him. The dove's face seemed to know what it was doing. Black eyes stared with intensity, dark and cold. The way it looked at Russia made him feel uncomfortable to the point that it reminded him of how Belarus would stalk him. Was it going to do something? It was only a bird. Maybe he could get rid of it before something started. Russia walked to the bird with a large hand ready to grab it. The dove cooed and jerked its head to the side quickly.

"Russia you're finally here!" America burst out from one of the room; arms spread wide open to embrace his boyfriend. The nation let the younger give him a hug but he had no intention of taking his eyes of the bird, watching it just as it watched him. "So listen, I don't know if you noticed but we were delayed from getting out of the atmosphere for a while."

"Is that so?" America pulled away to slide his hands down to Russia's as he responded. The nation must have been sleeping as it happened. He hadn't noticed his laptop reporting anything unusual on the ship.

"Yep and it was all thanks to this little guy," The country's hand brushed across the dove's head in a gentle manner. It didn't hesitate, move away or coo. "I think he might of accidently got into one of the openings when they did last minute checks on the wiring and junk 'cause he was found freakin' out all over the lower deck. Poor little guy."

"We should return it back to Earth as soon as we land." Russia suggested eyeing the bird.

"What!" America cocked his body to the side staring with shock. "Dude, it's a dove."

"I know it's a dove but…" Russia tried not to glare at it as America looked at him. "A- a wild thing should be returned home. It may wreck material in here since it's not trained."

America scoffed. "Doubt it. Look…" he held out his hand and called to the bird saying, "Come here." The dove flew off in an instance to then perch itself on America's upper arm. It cooed when its little feet traveled around to face Russia. "See!"

"All the more of a reason to give it away," Russia claimed. "If its trained then there is no doubt it has an owner. Perhaps its owner had lost it when it requested for the bird to be sent to their room."

"Naugh!" The American complained. "Do you have something against doves? Or birds in general? I mean seriously!"

Russia couldn't explain to America the uncomfortable feeling he was getting. It didn't seem trust worthy and he didn't like the way it appeared to be watching him. It could have been bugged, especially since it was trained. He felt like it was feeding information to someone as they spoke. Why a dove though?

A sigh was all Russia could offer at the moment before he stated, "It is a peaceful, wonderful creature although as I have said; the bird may belong to someone. You, of all people America should understand that this bird may be missed by a family member that raised him long ago."

It was possible, no matter how much America pleaded to deny it. He stroked the underside of the bird's beak before placing it over his shoulder. "Yeah, you're probably right." Russia beamed as if he had outsmarted the creature. Now he would just offer some sort of reward to any gentleman or woman to act as if the bird was of their ownership, hold it until they have landed safely to Mars and then Russia would gather the bird to soon place it in another ship headed to Earth. It would be full proof. America on the other hand still had hope that it would soon be something he could nurture, "But if no one takes the bird I get to keep it, right?"

"Of course," Even though there was no chance of that ever occurring.

And luckily, Russia's plan worked brilliantly. He had found a nice gentleman who didn't mind the extra cash to hold onto the bird. Russia had claimed he needed to bird to be watched over for until they landed onto Mars. He made it very vague that its presence was getting someone quite suspicious so he didn't have any desire of risking losing the bird from his grasp. Not a total lie; that was the beauty of it. The man took the bird when America placed the word out of a lost pet. America was both a cliché happy and sad to see the bird leave to what he believed was the dove's master. Russia was surprised that the creature didn't create a ruckus, it was quite tamed but it left his world for the remaining time they spent in space with a cold black eye looking at him. It was as if it knew what was going on and was telling Russia to beware. The country shrugged it off knowing the dove would be gone soon.

It was hard to tell whether America was able to let go of the dove's presence for the short time it was with him. He had an unusual bond with animals that even if he spent a minute with the creature he would go on for three days about how wonderful it was. It wouldn't matter though because the ship had already arrived at the presence of the passengers' new home along with several other ships that left the Earth not long after they did. America was one of many people who manage to steel a spot to watch as they arrived to the planet with his twin brother. He pointed out the areas he knew each country would take with an eager face. Canada was still shocked to see how well made the planet was, it almost looked like another design of earth; clouds, land, sea, just everything.

The dock was a massive building perfectly made for one of the many ships arriving in different areas of the planet now. It led to the towns of the new land waiting for everyone. Once the ship had landed people gathered their belongings and started forth to a community with very few people. They had all personally selected homes and places around the area that they were directed to. America leaped out of the ship with Canada falling behind. He took in the largest breath of air feeling his whole being growing and extending. He couldn't stop saying everything that came through his mind.

At an earlier time back in the ship, Russia had promised America that he would arrive at his house to help move in his belongings soon enough. He snaked through the crowds of people to the man that held onto the bird. Russia came to his room and noticed there were a lot of noises being made. The window to the man's room was closed by blinds and muffles of what sounded like stressed commands leaked through. The nation knocked on the door. All the muffles went dead silent to Russia's surprise. The door slowly opened.

"Hello," Russia said, "I'm here to take back my bird."

The man stuttered before he began his brief explanation on how the bird was gone. Russia was still for the moments he spoke. The stranger gave excused that someone may have taken the bird, or someone may have accidently or purposely released it. He gave his desperate apologies but it didn't phase Russia. What got to him was that the bird was gone and right now America should be miles from this place anyways. Russia asked when the man lost the bird and he claimed this morning he saw it but after gathering his stuff to leave the bird was gone. There was no way the bird could have found America at that time, let alone America find that bird. It was perfect. Russia smiled and waved off the man saying he should not worry about it and that it would be all fine. The stranger insisted that he pay back for the loss but Russia was persuasive in saying he had got the service he wanted.

-X-

America forced his hand down his lower back letting out a large cracking noise as he stretched. The boxes were placed in non-specific places on unpacked furniture or corners of the house. Men that helped America move in began to gather small machines. The little guys were a big help, figuring out ways to push big pieces of furniture into tight doors. The men wiped the sweat off their brows when they scooted the robots to the door and buckled them into the empty spaces of their trucks. America slid his finger on a pad on the door that followed his fingers to meet the doorframe. He turned to the main hall that held most of the boxes ready to empty. Since yesterday America was at his determination to get all the major material out in their correct spot. He could take another cup of powdered nutrients that worked better than coffee. There was definitely a feel of the energy from the drink draining out of him. Maybe it'd be better to rest instead. He did get a lot done. The boxes were the only things asking to be emptied.

The country huffed and began to walk towards his kitchen wanting a glass of water. He pulled out a cup from one of the boxes, filling it with water half way. America gazed at his kitchen and the living room when he heard a tweet. The nation jerked, nearly choking on his water. White feathers glided into the kitchen with a sunflower grasped at its feet. America was frozen still, being careful not to startle the bird as it landed. Was it really the dove back at the ship?

"Uh..." The nation croaked. He let out his hand and said in a quiet tone. "Come here." The dove flapped its wings with grace to perch itself on America's shoulder. The blond man was in shock. "You're really the bird back at the ship aren't you?" He asked as if the bird would respond by speaking to him. Instead it tweeted and jerked its white feathered head to the sunflower. America followed the motion and replaced the glass of water with the sunflower. He examined it at many angles to occupy his thoughts. "Did Russia get you back?" It chirped again. "But I thought you were already owned by someone else..." America pondered over the possibilities of why his beloved would do such a strange thing as to get rid of the dove then return it. "What if you were a surprise gift to me and accidently got out of your cage? Was he trying to keep you a secret until we got here?" He thought out loud. This time the bird made no motion of agreement or signs that he would disprove. It only lifted its foot to scratch its head.

America was so confused.

He looked to the entrance of the hall when the sound of his door opening echoed through the house. It had to be Russia. America took the sunflower and bird to his pantry where a he told the bird to stay quiet on a shelf. The nation leaped out of the pantry where Russia barely stepped into the kitchen. The two looked at each other nearly blank minded.

"It seems you were working a lot on moving in America." Russia smiled. "I told you I would help."

"Well, you know me. And besides you were taking a while so I decided to just go on ahead." America said waving his hand. Russia made a slow travel around the room looking at the interior. His boyfriend tapped his fingers on the round counter. "Remember that white dove Russia?"

Russia stopped from his examination. He bit his lower lip. "D…da. I do remember the bird."

"It's pretty great that its owner got it back. I mean if it's supposed to be there." America shrugged.

Oh this was bad. What was he trying to say? Did America know that Russia made a deal with that man to get rid of the bird? He should have known that he shouldn't trust other people to handle his work. The Russian let his violet eyes dart across the room before he turned his head slightly towards America with a fake smile.

"Of course it's with its owner right now."

This was getting tricky. America would have thought Russia would admit to the bird being some sort of gift right now. Maybe there was a different reason it came. The blond quirked his head and ran a tongue across his teeth. Now what to do? The bird's sudden call against the silence startling both men. It came out of the pantry holding the sunflower and settled on the counter. The two stared at the head boggling bird for a long, quiet moment. Russia was the first to look at America, more shocked than the blond was.

"You took it from its owner?" Russia accused.

"No!" America argued. "Someone gave it to me and I thought it was you. I mean, I just come in here and it flaps in through my door with that sunflower."

Oh this creature was clever. Russia was more than eager to dissect the dove to see if it was any robotic or genetically altered creature. Unfortunately though, America planned to take good care of it and keeping a well put eye out for the dove. His watch would slip up soon.

In five days, the Dove would have flown away.

In three weeks, America would have accepted its disappearance.

-X-

Russia didn't like the stench that brushed his tongue with a foul taste and stinging feel in his lungs. It reeked of death, if he had put it in words. His town didn't look healthy. Its buildings were mossy and leaked unknown fluids. The fresh snow that he assumed fell in the morning sizzled out from the heat being produced under his feet. Fumes spewed from between cracks and plants that were deformed. All the flowers were foul colors of greens and browns. He couldn't even tell if they were alive. Everything had to be dead here. Nothing stirred; all the citizens left, the animals were rotting at the corners of streets and no insects dared cross the town. What was this place?

The nation was perched on what was left of a bordering wall of someone's property. He just sat there, one hand on his knee and the other on top of it. Russia's body hurt from every angle to the point that he truly believed if he moved something would be damaged. The only thing he felt like doing was staying calm and internally listen to his world crumble. There wasn't much for him to say about it because he knew he wasn't going to die. Yes, this world may crumble, he may feel his body ripping apart in separate pieces, he may believe for a second that he was dead but he knew very well what would happen in the end.

He was finally going to say goodbye to this ancient place he once called home.

Through the cold wind that carried all the gases in the air Russia wasn't sure why his head started to throb, or maybe it was beginning to beat. Strange since he didn't have his heart connected to him at this moment. He didn't think it was at all safe to keep it while he stood here. Right now it was in a sanctuary and probably the most peaceful place there could have ever been. Russia perked his head up when he noticed a flock of birds fly across the town; there were four gorgeous white birds on the left and to the right side of a slimming black crow that led the way. He would have sympathized for them but instead the nation stood, ignoring the pain in his body and ran.

All he needed to do was keep running.

Holding terrified yet determined violet eyes the nation sprinted with whatever energy his former land held. It wouldn't be enough. The life was almost all sucked clean out. He tried loosing the birds through building, climbing into broken homes and jumping into the buildings it leaned next to. Russia came into one building where the birds finally swooped down to try and strike him but he dodged them in an instant, taking the broken pipes of an open home and leaping to the outside world. The birds curved and where now on his tail.

One of the white birds dived swiftly to strike at the Russian's head. This made him stumble. Internally, his body ordered him to endure it, that he couldn't win in this escape. The birds came across him and grazed his skin but left a gust of harsh winds to knock the air out of him. While he was choking they began to claw and snap at him. Russia protected his face while slowly taking steps back. The white birds tore his clothes with little cuts and left small strikes of red that began to look more horrible with every slice. The nation opened his eyes once to see that they weren't white birds clawing at him; they were enormous black crows with deformed bodies. One slammed it body to Russia's head forcing him to fall back on his rear. They continued on with their terrorism.

Russia opened his eyes and pulled his arms away when he thought he heard chuckling. Not far off, behind the crow's feathers and on a broken pipe did a simple white dove stand there, shaking. Its beak opened and hollered out the loudest, most vile laughter that sounded like it came from someone he would never want to hear that noise from ever in his life.


Сестра: Sister.

Chao: Hello/Goodbye

Grazie: Thank you

Пожалуйста: Please

Извините: Excuse me

Non ti preoccupare: Don't worry