A/N: My internet keeps going out and I don't trust it so I'm updating a tad early. This one's pretty long because I combined two chapters (again). *shrugs*
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Chapter Fourteen: No Such Thing As Privacy
America did not sleep the night after he talked with Yang. Or the night after that. Or the night after that. It was becoming apparent that he had developed insomnia, and instead of wasting time trying and failing to sleep, America spent his nights with Sterlyn and Penny. The pilot did not mind as long as they did not distract him or ask him too many questions. That did not stop America from pestering him and toeing the line as much as possible.
"Sooo do you want to tell me any nice secrets about yourself?" he asked the pilot as the sun started creeping over the horizon.
"No." Sterlyn grunted.
"What about a last name?" America asked with faked hopefulness.
"No." Sterlyn growled.
America chuckled and left him alone. He watched the sun rise, turning the sky from dark blue to pink to gold. At least his insomnia was good for a couple things. Good company and beautiful sights, no matter how brief they were. He watched the sun creep higher and closed his eyes, thinking of sunrises over an endless blue ocean.
"Alfred, you should go shower. Based on previously cataloged data, Winter will wake to shower in ten minutes." Penny said, interrupting the moment.
America did not mind. "Okay. How about you try to wake Mattie without me today? And then you can go talk to whoever you want."
Penny's eyes gleamed. "I accept this challenge."
She rose and skipped out, bouncing as she went. Ruby had taught her how to sashay the day before, caught in the boredom many of the travelers were experiencing, and like many things, Penny caught onto it instantly. If America had to guess, he'd say she would pick up dancing easily as well. That was a benefit of having an evolving learning algorithm, supposedly.
"She's adorable." Vale admitted as Penny skipped away.
America chuckled and silently agreed. After seeing Penny's interactions with Sterlyn, he had gotten the brilliant idea to encourage Penny to spend more time with the others. Sometimes Penny required more than a subtle nudge, but America found if he worded it in a way that made it like a challenge, Penny was much more eager to go out and talk to someone that was not him. Again, evolving learning algorithm.
Speaking of challenges, waking Canada was harder here than normal because there was no mattress to flip on top of him. Instead America and Penny had to take more drastic measures to wake his twin, which usually included lifting him a few feet into the air and dropping him. America pictured Penny lifting a snoring Canada over her head like a weird trophy and snorted.
He hefted his bag onto his shoulder and walked into the bathroom, shutting the door behind him and locking it. Hopefully everyone had learned what was not proper bathroom etiquette from Jaune. If they didn't and busted this door, America was sure Sterlyn would go nuclear. Few things were more terrifying than the pilot when someone hurt his 'baby', as poor Italy learned when he accidentally snapped the antenna off a radio.
America chuckled lightly and stepped into the shower. Another benefit of not sleeping was the ability to sneak into the bathroom and get changed without anyone noticing. The rest of their team usually split into groups to change, and none caught on to America's secrecy yet. He was an early riser and that became his perfect cover.
Sure, a few people knew about his scars, but not all of them. America was not sure he wanted to find out how Russia would react. Would he laugh? And Japan… it was a rare occurrence— America only remembered a couple instances himself— but Japan got twitchy when it came to back wounds. As much as America wanted to know why, he never asked. There were just some things friends did not bring up.
America shook his head and turned the water off, stepping out of the shower. He dried off and pulled his clothes on, opening the bathroom door. Russia's tall frame filled the doorway and America yelped, jumping back. Russia smirked and America scowled, smacking him irritably on the arm.
"Damn it, Russia! Don't give me a heart attack."
"If my appearance alone gave you a heart attack I would be concerned." Russia claimed cheerfully.
America rolled his eyes. "Yeah, sure. Could you move, please?"
Russia shook his head. "No. I must speak with you."
America glanced at their surroundings and raised an eyebrow. "What is with people and wanting to talk with me in bathrooms? I know showers let people contemplate the universe but come on—"
Russia put a hand on America's shoulder and leaned over until they were eye to eye. His piercing eyes scrutinized America, who stiffened but held the larger nation's gaze. Russia's head tipped questioningly. On a nicer person, the pose may be reminiscent of a curious puppy. On Russia, it was more comparable to a wolf spotting prey. America's lips twisted into an instinctive snarl and Russia chuckled.
"You are always so defensive. Did our heart to heart mean nothing?"
"I have a problem with being touched." America said tersely, shoving Russia's hand off his shoulder.
He tried to push past Russia but the larger nation 'casually' blocked the opening with his arm. America halted, breathing evenly as he struggled to stop his heart from crawling into his throat. This was Russia. There was no way in hell he was letting Russia intimidate him. He wasn't that weak.
"You are hiding something." Russia stated.
"Oh really?" America replied snidely. "And here I thought I was the most transparent nation in the world, sharing my every thought with every person I meet—"
Russia frowned at him. His hand shifted and America flinched, tucking his chin before Russia could touch his neck.
"You flinch so often." Russia noted.
America grabbed his hand and yanked it away from his skin. "Well excuse me for having a problem with people touching me."
Russia grabbed his arm and he froze. "You flinched again." the larger nation said. "That would be a problem if an enemy grabbed you."
"If an enemy grabs me, I'll burn them." America spat. "Keep it up and I'll show you how."
Russia shoved him. America's ankles hit the edge of the shower and tipped back, barely keeping his balance. The door clicked shut and Russia grabbed his collar before he could fall. A hand clamped over his mouth. America froze in place but kicked Russia in the shin, annoyed growl muffled by the large nation's palm.
"What the hell?!" Vale gaped.
"You flinched again." Russia said calmly. "You need to stop that."
America's insults were rendered unintelligible by his hand. He angrily jabbed at the Russian's stomach, and was gratified to see him wince. Russia frowned and yanked America around, pinning his arms to his sides as his other palm remained over America's mouth. America stilled, heart pounding as his skin went cold and the soldier's breath brushed his ear—
"Alfred!" Vale shouted.
America smelled burning cloth. He focused to see flickers of orange in front of his eyes and slowly comprehended that Russia's coat was on fire.
"Oh shit!" America gasped.
He shoved Russia into the shower and turned it on, dousing the flames and drenching both himself and Russia. Russia stared at his smoking sleeve with a distantly bemused expression and America growled, yanking his sleeve up to check his arm for burns. Luckily Russia's Aura held out and he appeared to be fine. Not a single burn marked his skin.
"I'm so sorry." America apologized. "I lost control—"
Russia grabbed him by the throat and slammed him into the wall. America's breath left his body in a whoosh but he kept his hands down, careful not to touch Russia and risk burning him again. Russia held him pinned to the wall, posture stooped so they were eye to eye once more, and his lips pulled down.
"Do you think your enemies will show you mercy if you cry?" he asked.
America could not look at him. Although he knew he could, he could not shove Russia away. He shut his prickling eyes and watched remorselessly as his friends panicked as his flames devoured Kuroyuri—
"I know they won't." he choked. "Let go."
"Stop flinching." Russia demanded and grabbed his shoulder.
The unhealed scars burned and America clenched his teeth so he wouldn't scream. He resisted the instinct that begged him to slam Russia through the wall like he had thrown England into a tree—
Russia scowled at him. "Stop. Flinching."
"I can't." America hissed.
Russia released him. America fell to the base of the shower, landing in the puddle of water at the bottom, and Russia stared down at him, expression unreadable. He reached out and America flinched, but did not try to escape as Russia grabbed his chin, forcing him to look at him.
"When you were amnesiac, you had a habit of bracing for injury rather than fight those that sought to harm you." Russia said calmly. "I thought you would discard such pathetic instincts with your regained memory, but apparently that is not the case. I find that weakness to be problematic. In battle, you could face capture due to such hesitation." His hand squeezed America's jaw. "So until you stop flinching, we will continue this game, da?"
America glared at him as water dripped from his hair. Russia chuckled and turned off the shower. He stepped out and yanked America with him, holding him by the arm to stop him from falling over. America pulled his arm free and rubbed it, glowering.
"I guess our 'heart to heart' meant nothing." he whispered.
"Oh, no. I meant what I said about not liking you like this." Russia said pleasantly. "But I'm bored and have nothing better to do, so I may as well help you recover."
America's skin crawled.
"This is his definition of 'helping'?" Vale asked faintly.
Russia grabbed America's hand and he jerked it free of his grasp, backing away— Don't spark don't spark don't spark.
Russia sighed. "Though I admit, part of what I claimed earlier is a lie. I am disappointed you have become so weak."
America's hands fell to his sides and he stared at Russia, eyes wide. He did not move as Russia once again reached for him, hand brushing his shoulder—
The door slammed open. Winter walked in, hair noticeably out of its usual bun and mussed from sleep, but her gaze was sharp and alert. America took a moment to note her hand was on her weapon before she halted just inside the doorway. Her glare rested on Russia.
"I heard noise." she said stiffly. "Is everything alright?" Her tone suggested the question was a mere formality and just how much she had heard and America's stomach sank into his shoes.
"Alfred fell into the shower and dragged me with him." Russia claimed cheerfully. "He is so clumsy sometimes."
He slung an arm around America's shoulders, smiling sweetly at him, and the twin's walls slammed into place. On instinct, a laugh bubbled free of America's throat.
"Yeah, I totally tripped, dude." he said, scratching at his ear sheepishly. "Don't tell Penny, okay? She already thinks I'm a walking disaster."
"You are a walking disaster." Winter said dryly. Her stare never left Russia, and her eyes burned like icy flames. "Ivan, could you please retrieve new attire for Alfred?"
Russia's eyes narrowed, and America prayed that the two would not start a fight in the tiny bathroom of their tiny airship which was thousands of feet above the ground. Thankfully, Russia nodded and exited the bathroom without argument. Before he left, he cast one final, indecipherable look at America. America avoided his eyes. The door clicked shut and he smiled, because what else could he do?
"We have to stop meeting like this." he joked, risking a glance upward.
Winter's glower silenced him. "Did you apologize to the shower for falling into it?" she asked coldly.
America winced at her obvious double-meaning. "You've got it wrong—"
"I'm not stupid, Alfred." Winter interrupted flatly. "Unless the shower grew hands, it did not leave you with bruises."
America touched his neck and winced. A peek at his shoulder revealed undeniable red welts. Good to know his Aura was being useless again. What was that Penny said about Aura and trauma? He hastily covered the welts up.
"Russia was just being Russia." he claimed. "He's trying to help me in his own weird way."
"He's helping by assaulting you?" Winter asked coolly.
"It's not an assault. I keep flinching so he grabbed me to keep me still." America explained. "He wants me to stop."
"And he intends to make you stop by hitting you?" Winter hissed.
"It's Russia." America said, as if that explained everything. It kind of did. "He's like a kid who shakes a fish bag because it's not moving." He sighed and decided to be blunt. Look, stop acting like I'm being bullied. I'm not a schoolkid. Russia just shoved me around a bit today, and only today. He got his message across and I doubt he'll do it again—"
A glyph appeared on the floor and a glowing clawed paw rose out. America jumped and Winter frowned, glaring at the glyph until it diminished. She exhaled slowly and pierced America with a glower.
"Stay." she commanded.
America watched her leave. He stayed in the bathroom, unsure what else he would do.
Why is she making such a big deal out of this? He wondered. I mean, I guess she's not used to Russia…
"I'm not used to Russia. I thought he liked you." Vale said shakily.
He does, America reassured her. He just has a… different way of viewing things. His shoulders slumped. He may be harsh and acting out of boredom but he's right. I need to get over my touch issues before it becomes a problem.
The bathroom door opened and Canada rushed in. America had a moment to notice the frost on his twin's shoulders before he was enveloped in a hug. America twitched but relaxed, laying his head on Canada's shoulder. He noticed Winter and Weiss in the doorway and chuckled awkwardly.
"Are we having a super-secret sibling meeting? Cool. We should go get Arthur and Jett, Yang and Ruby, and the Italy brothers and—"
"Stop joking." Winter snapped and America clamped his jaw shut.
Canada's arms tightened around him. "God dammit, Alfred." he whispered.
America swallowed uncomfortably. "You just swore, bro. What's up?"
Canada's jaw quivered and America could not say whether his brother was about to cry or fall into a fit of rage. Canada pulled back and put his hands on America's shoulders. America's breath hitched and he was not quick enough to stop his brother from pulling his collar aside, revealing the red marks on his skin— and part of his scars. Weiss's soft gasp went unacknowledged.
"Has this happened before?" Canada demanded.
"Has what happened?" America asked evasively.
Canada glared at him, eyes flashing a glowing violet. "Has Russia attacked you before?"
"No." America emphasized. "It just happened today." He huffed. "Jeez, what's your problem? It's not that big of a deal—"
Canada raised his hand. America recoiled, tucking his chin and jerking his hands up to shield his face. He lowered them but it was already too late. Canada's expression crumpled and America's insides twisted with guilt.
"Sorry. I didn't mean to flinch." he babbled. "I know you won't hurt me I didn't mean to imply I thought you would I just—"
"That's why you think I'm upset?" Canada whispered.
America faltered. "I… I don't…" He lowered his head and clasped his hands around his elbows. "It's not a big deal."
Canada stared at him, skin ashen and mouth clamped tightly shut.
Unable to look at him, America looked to Weiss and Winter for support. "I don't understand what's wrong?" he confessed, ashamed by his ignorance.
Winter's expression grew pinched.
Weiss leaned against the sink, arms crossed stiffly over her chest, with his spare clothes dangling from one hand. "...Our father used to hit us."
America couldn't find his voice. He glanced uncertainly at Winter and had to look away. He chuckled awkwardly because there was nothing else he could do. "Dudes, you're totally overblowing this. I—" He realized he was making everything about him again. "Oh, shoot. Wow, that was insensitive of me. I'm not saying your stuff is overblown. I'm sorry that happened. I'm glad you're away from him. B-But this is obviously different. Russia only grabbed me and shoved me a few times and you're acting like it's this awful thing—"
"It is awful." Canada stated. "Alfred, why would Russia's actions ever be okay?"
"He's trying to help me." America reminded them.
"Oh, so your enemies are trying to help you when they smack you around?" Canada asked sharply.
"That's different." America said, but nausea settled in his stomach.
Canada stared at him, and America wondered if that was disappointment in his eyes. "Alfred, you have to fight back when people attack you. Even if it's an ally."
But I don't want to hurt my allies.
America studied his feet, cheeks reddening. "I don't need you to tell me that." he said tersely. "I'm not a child."
Canada silently shook his head.
"I don't think he agrees with you." Vale murmured.
America's hands trembled. He cleared his throat and kept on smiling. "Nice talk. Now can you shoo so I can change before Penny sees me?"
Canada scowled. "America—"
America grabbed the clothes from Weiss and shoved the three out the door. "'Kay-thanks-bye."
He slammed the door shut and locked it before sinking to the floor, carelessly dropping the pile of clothes into his lap. He gripped his hair, breathing heavily.
"I am fine." he whispered. "I'm fine. I'm fine."
"No you are not." Vale informed him.
America gritted his teeth and forced himself to smile. He couldn't let himself crumble. He had to be fine. Sure, the others did not see things the same way as him but that was okay. He was fine. He had to be fine. The others were overreacting. Russia did not do anything unusual or wrong. America was the one with problems. America was the one that needed to get over himself and change. He was already worrying his family too much, so he didn't need to add to their burdens.
Besides, Russia was right. He needed to stop acting like a nervous fawn and grow a backbone, at least when his friends touched him. They would not hurt him— Well, Russia kind of did but that was to show America how stupid he was being. America should be glad someone wasn't treating him like glass. He couldn't afford to be a liability during battle. Russia was just trying to help him.
Maybe America should let him.
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Weiss wished the airship could provide a private area other than the bathroom. She needed space to think and the closest thing she could get was with Sterlyn. Yet even then, there was more than just the pilot there. Her sister and Matthew lingered as well, all caught in the same stunned stupor.
When Ivan came to request new clothes for Alfred, she saw nothing amiss. When Winter appeared a moment later and crisply requested the clothes from him while saying Penny's presence was not required, nothing seemed wrong. When Weiss grew irritated with the cold looks Ivan and Winter shot each other and took the clothes herself, nothing alarmed her. And when Winter said Alfred wanted to ask Matthew something, Weiss still remained oblivious.
They went to the bathroom— herself with the clothes, Winter murmuring softly, and Matthew drastically paling— and yet even as she listened and slowly realized what happened, the last thing she expected was for Alfred to have bruises that could only come from human hands. Seeing them brought up memories she wanted to forget, and Alfred's complete obliviousness as to why the contusions were so upsetting made her feel ill. Not only that, but those scars across his shoulders...
Even worse, rather than worry for him, she found herself sitting in a chair in the cockpit, considering her father. Weiss absently touched her cheek, feeling the ghostly sensations of many harsh slaps. Logically, she knew it was different. Ivan was neither Alfred's parent, family member, or spouse, and it had only happened once.
And yet her mind jumped in a direction she loathed.
She let her hand fall to her lap, squeezing them tightly. Winter grasped her fingers.
"Weiss? Are you alright?" she asked quietly.
"I don't know." Weiss said truthfully. "I didn't expect that."
"None of us did." Winter murmured.
"I should have." Matthew growled. He slammed his hand onto the chair arm and it creaked ominously. "Damn it. We shouldn't have brought Russia back here."
"Has he done something like this before?" Winter asked.
Matthew grimaced. "Yes. Russia can get… physical when it comes to things he wants." He rubbed his upper arm absently and grimaced.
"Then why did you bring him?" Winter demanded.
"Because he's useful… and he can be a good person." Matthew sighed. "What you have to understand about Russia is that his sense of morality and how he views things is… different than most people. He honestly sees nothing wrong with what he does." He scowled. "That doesn't excuse him."
"Are you going to confront him?" Weiss asked.
"I'll try. It might not work." Matthew muttered darkly. His eyes glowed and he bared his teeth. "But if something happens again, I'm going to force Russia to return to Earth."
"Hey, not to eavesdrop but what the hell are you talking about?" Sterlyn interjected. Weiss finally noticed the pilot looking back at them.
Matthew winced, regretting the lack of privacy as much as Weiss did. "It's nothing, Sterlyn."
The pilot turned around and stared at him stonily.
Matthew cringed. "Alfred is having some… issues with Ivan."
Sterlyn did not look away.
Matthew sighed and reluctantly elaborated. "Ivan attacked him in a misguided attempt to 'help' him recover."
"Do I need to kick Ivan off my ship?" Sterlyn asked sharply. Somehow, Weiss felt the pilot would find a way to do it, even if it meant dropping Ivan out of the cargo hold in midair.
"No." Matthew said quickly. "I'm going to speak to him and resolve this."
Sterlyn scowled and turned back to the open sky. "Alfred is a good kid. He doesn't need more crap to deal with."
"He needs a break. That's what he needs." Matthew muttered. "...And therapy. Russia needs therapy, too."
Weiss doubted she was supposed to hear that last bit so did not reply to it. The bathroom door creaked and Alfred exited the restroom at last. His hair was neatly in place, his eyes were not red-rimmed, he smiled like nothing had happened, and there was no sign of bruising on his neck, arm or face. If Weiss did not see him just a few minutes ago, she would find nothing amiss. The thought nauseated her.
"Hey, are Yang and Ruby up yet?" he asked like nothing occurred.
"Yes." Matthew said. "Al—"
"Great." America said brightly. "I'm supposed to help them call Qrow today." He walked out without another word.
Matthew watched him go and put his head in his hands. "What do I do?"
"Watch them." Winter said sharply.
"Talk to Ivan." Weiss offered at the same time.
The two sisters stared at each other and simultaneously looked away.
Matthew sighed heavily and rose to his feet. "This will end well." he mumbled and walked out.
Weiss waited until his blond head vanished from the cockpit to speak. "Winter?" She felt her sister's gaze on her and gripped her skirt between her fingers. She kept her voice as quiet as she could, hoping Sterlyn's helmet would not allow him to hear. "Jacques hit you, too?"
Her sister never looked at her. "...Yes."
Weiss swallowed roughly. "Oh."
"It wasn't often." Winter elaborated stiffly. "I used to come up with excuses why he did it just like Alfred—" She paused. "…It never should have happened." Her fingers curled into white-knuckled fists. "That's why I stopped that now."
Weiss wanted to feel relieved. Instead the uncomfortable feeling in her gut refused to fade. She merely nodded and rose from her seat, exiting the cockpit alongside her sister with the proper gracefulness befitting a Schnee.
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When Canada entered the cargo hold, America was already with Ruby and Yang, holding onto the older sister's Scroll as the two eagerly chatted with their uncle back in Frontier. The sight may normally make Canada smile warmly, if not for one glaring, unwanted presence. It took everything Canada had not to storm over to Russia and physically tear him away from his brother.
Naturally Russia had taken a spot by Ruby, smiling at the oblivious girl who had no idea why America sat so stiffly on her other side. America was smiling and chipper as usual, but Canada knew his twin well enough to spot the tension in his posture and the slight tremor of his hands. If not for those signs, the way his eyes darted towards Russia were also a huge giveaway to his unease.
When Russia spotted the other twin, he had the gall to smile at him. "Canada. Would you like to join us? Ruby's conversation is most entertaining."
"Hey, quit eavesdropping." Yang complained, jabbing Russia in the shoulder.
The large nation chuckled. "Alfred is here and you were not complaining before."
America's smile grew noticeably strained.
"He has to be for his Semblance to boost the signal." Ruby explained briefly before turning her attention back to the Scroll. "What were you saying, Uncle Qrow?"
Qrow hummed thoughtfully, voice surprisingly clear. Canada expected more static from the call. Though he supposed America's Semblance might prevent that. "Well, there was this beautiful nurse that came to visit me today..."
Ruby and Yang groaned.
Canada tapped Russia's shoulder. "How about we give them some privacy?" he said, only able to keep his voice level due to years of diplomacy.
Russia's smile stayed in place. "Nyet. I am comfortable here and they do not mind. Right, Alfred?"
He poked America's arm, and Canada's brother flinched. Canada blood boiled and he wanted nothing more than to slug Russia. There was no way he would bring up what Russia did in front of everyone, and Russia knew it. Not just because it was not their business— and revealing Russia's actions would irreversibly splinter their group— but because America was glancing at him, smiling even with transparent panic in his eyes.
As Canada debated on how to proceed, he noticed he had attracted an unwanted audience. England, Penny, Japan, and Pyrrha were all taking glances their way, and the sharpness in three sets of green and one brown eyes said Canada was not the only one to notice America's unease. If Canada did not know any better, he might think Russia was purposely trying to cause discord in order to attract Grimm. Sadly, he knew better, and that Russia saw absolutely nothing wrong with what he had done.
Canada resisted the urge to shove his way between Russia and his brother— and maybe blast Russia through a wall in the process— and settled across from them, keeping a polite mask on his face. Russia winked at him cheerfully, and slung an arm around America's shoulders, eliciting a tiny flinch. Canada ground his teeth while America smiled away, doing absolutely nothing to stop him.
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The scent of spices wafted through the air, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma. China hummed vaguely as he laid bowls out on the table, filling up the space with empty dishes. The lack of leftover room for eating did not matter. No one would dine at the table tonight. Instead each nation would gravitate towards their closest friends, seeking the comfort of familiarity in the wake of upheaval. Once he finished cooking, China would be one of them, shutting himself away with Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macau. Nations could be such habitual creatures, even him.
China paused, counting the bowls, He removed one and returned it to the cupboard. The fried rice finished cooking and he lifted the wok, smoothly depositing rice into each bowl as he went around the table. He counted the bowls, set the wok down, and went to the cupboard, retrieving the bowl. Rather than fill it with the remaining rice, he stared at the empty porcelain, hand resting on the spoon.
"China?"
China looked to the doorway and noticed Germany leaning against the wall, likely in an attempt to stay out of his way. He noticed where he was standing and hurried over to the taller nation, yanking him forward.
"Do not lean on the fire alarm, aru!"
Germany jumped guiltily, noticing the bright red switch he nearly pushed with his weight. "My apologies." He murmured. The blond-haired nation stepped deeper into China's claimed domain and sniffed cautiously. "Is that fried rice?"
"Yes. I am just serving it now, aru. You can call the others to retrieve their food."
Germany's gaze drifted over the bowls, resting on the empty one. "Is this one yours?"
"No." China said, tone clipped. "I haven't decided if it is anyone's yet, aru."
Germany understood his meaning. "You mean the Atlas soldier downstairs."
China grimaced. The Atlas soldier they found in Poland was in their custody, chained to a bed and locked in a room with no means to leave, yet whenever China compared his circumstances to the twins', he could not help but wonder if they were being too merciful. Responding to cruelty with more cruelty rarely ended well, but China still struggled against the desire to storm down to the soldier's room and introduce him to his tonfas. Regardless of those feelings, that man was human and needed food.
China frowned at the extra rice, and the bowl that might carry it.
Germany noticed his change in expression. "China, do not feel obligated to feed him. We have plenty of different food here." Food that isn't from your country, that you personally made. Food that might be more fitting for someone like him, went unsaid.
China slammed the wok down on the stovetop, making a few hanging utensils rattle. "That is not the issue and you know it. I do not know how to feel. This man is our enemy. He may be one of the end that took part in the twins' torture. Yet he might not be. Either way, he is our best chance to gain information about our enemy, either through a raised weapon or extended hand. So should I give him this food and imply an offer of hospitality, or should I treat him like the monster he may think we are?"
Germany scrutinized his expression. "Do you want me to make that decision for you?"
"No." China said shortly.
He picked up the wok and stared at the empty bowl. The Atlas soldier was still downstairs, as he had been ever since they returned to the mansion. Austria and Lithuania remained in the infirmary, recovering from the wounds inflicted by the Tiger Grimm. Everyone else was in their rooms, huddled into little groups as a result of those wounds. The near-loss had shaken them, and China could not help but wonder what might have happened to Lithuania, Austria, Poland, and Prussia if the Atlas soldier was not there. It was true the man may have only saved them because he thought Prussia was an ally but…
We could use him to gain an advantage. He likely expects violence from us, so why not keep him— as they say— "off-balance"?
Slowly, China transferred the remaining rice to the bowl and carefully set the wok back down.
"Finland and I will accompany you." Germany said instantly.
China did not protest. He could take care of himself but there were always Semblances to consider. He also appreciated Germany's sneakiness. Finland was bubbly and friendly, but he was also one of the deadliest nations in the mansion. It would be best to have the Atlas soldier underestimate them, especially since they did not know if he needed to be intimidated yet.
While everyone bustled in to retrieve their food, Germany pulled Finland aside and asked for his assistance. Finland was all too-ready to help, but naturally he could not go alone. That was how China found himself leading Germany, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, and Norway downstairs to their improvised cell. America's house did not have a dungeon of any sort— the idiot was too kind for that— but Tony had altered a few rooms in preparation for potential spies.
Spain and Switzerland were standing guard outside one such room, weapons in hand and features sharp with concentration. Cameras showed the inside of the room, where the Atlas soldier paced back and forth as far as his chain could allow. A small device was attached to his arm, blinking green, and from what China could glean from Tony, it somehow sensed the amount of Aura their prisoner had available and whether he used it. It probably did more than that but China decided he did not need to know the details.
Denmark, Norway, and Sweden joined Switzerland and Spain guarding the door, but one look at them must have told Germany ordering any to leave was useless, for he did not protest. Germany entered a code, pressed his thumbprint to a scanner by the door, and flared his light blue Aura while touching it. It was only then that the door unlocked and slid aside, but even after that, both China and Finland had to go through a similar identification process before the shield in the doorway lowered. Call them paranoid, but the nations were taking full advantage of Tony's tech. None of them were taking any chances.
Germany led the way into the room and Finland shut the door behind them, stopping at the taller nation's left shoulder. China lingered at Germany's right, tray of food in hand. The prisoner had stopped pacing and stood stiffly by the bed.
"Dinner." was all Germany said, voice clipped and emotionless.
China stepped forward and set the bowl on the table, stepping away. The table was within the soldier's range, bolted down so much that China bet America would struggle to rip it free. The soldier made no move to approach the table and its available— bolted down— chair, staring at them stonily. The silence ticked on and on, and with every passing moment, China knew something was going to cause things to devolve into violence. He was not one to blurt things, but apparently living in America's house for too long erased the brain to mouth filter he once had.
"Ah, you do not know what this is. This is fried rice, a common recipe from my country." he sniffed. "The ingredients are not from my homeland but they suffice, aru."
Three pairs of eyes stared at him— one confused, one wary, and one unmoved. The soldier said nothing, nor did he move. Even with that hard expression, China could see he was young. Of course, all humans and most nations were young to him, but this human was young even by human standards. He looked to be in his early twenties at the latest.
China's eyes narrowed. "It does not taste good cold. And do not even think about throwing it onto the floor, child."
Finally, he got a reaction out of the soldier. "Child?" the man snarled. "I am a soldier of Atlas—"
China scoffed, not in the mood to listen to a long-winded speech about the 'great and mighty' Kingdom of Atlas. "Yes, yes, so I have heard. Just eat the food. It's not nuclear."
The man's brief— but telling— furrowed brow confirmed China's suspicions that he was not as versed in the ways and terms of Earth as others of his ilk might be. Specifically, he did not know what 'nuclear' meant and that it had nothing to do with food. He continued to eye the food warily.
China withheld a sigh. Barely. "Do you want to eat or not, aru?" An idea struck him and he softened his tone. "Consider it a thank you for saving Tolys and Roderich."
The soldier paused. He covered his startled expression with a neutral stare, but all three nations saw it. China had to wonder, was it his thanks that startled the man or the fact that the nations had human names? The Atlas soldier slowly sat down, suspicious gaze never straying from them, and China backed off to give him more room, waiting with bated breath.
"Are those the two that were injured? Are they alright?" the soldier asked.
If China were less dignified like Korea, he would be dancing in glee. As it were, he merely inclined his head. "Both fell unconscious from their wounds but they will survive."
"I see." the soldier said neutrally.
Germany opened his mouth. China stopped him from speaking with a look.
"We will leave you to enjoy your meal." he said pleasantly.
He walked out, and the other two nations followed his example without comment. A glance behind them revealed the soldier was reaching for a spoon. The door clicked shut and China hurried to the cameras to see the man cautiously eat a single grain of rice. He waited a moment and his posture relaxed the slightest bit. The soldier took another scoop of rice.
"What was that?" Germany asked, bringing China's attention back to his fellow nations. The blond-haired nation's tone was not accusatory, but curious.
China smiled. "I tested the soldier, aru. He is not as indoctrinated into Atlas's lies as he thinks."
Germany's gaze grew sharp. "How can you tell?"
"He asked about Lithuania and Austria's health." China said simply. "A colder— more fanatical— man would wish them dead. Add the fact that he was in the forest to hunt that Tiger Grimm— even though Atlas likely ordered him to keep his cover and thus not hunt any Grimm regardless of the threat they posed to civilians— and we may be dealing with a soldier who disobeyed his country to save lives."
He saw the moment Germany understood his meaning. "He worried about the lives of civilians and his enemies..."
"So he will certainly care for the well-being of his comrades." China concluded. "If we appear to be a threat to them, it will only be harder to find their locations. The man will die before he shares anything."
Finland gasped. "But if we make ourselves sympathetic to him before telling him his fellow soldiers are being hunted by Grimm—"
"He may willingly give us their locations." Germany finished.
Finland beamed, but his smile soon faded. "But what if he doesn't? What if it's a trick and he's just like the others?"
China did not need to look to Germany to know the answer. When he spoke, there was no hesitation in his voice. "If he and his fellow spies have malevolent intentions for Earth, then we kill them."
XXXXXXX
America honestly did not need this in his life. But if it helped him stop flinching like a wounded puppy, perhaps he did.
That did not mean he had to like it.
Ever since that incident in the bathroom, Russia took every opportunity to touch him. Nothing that should be alarming, but to America it was hell. A hand on his arm or his shoulder, bumping into him in the thin hallway between the cargo hold and the cockpit, standing just a little too close behind him… The last instances were always the worst.
America could feel Russia's breath on the back of his neck and froze every time, remembering painful hands and repeated torture. He endured in silence, focusing on going still instead of flinching. Russia did not seem to like that much, as America's current situation showed.
America was laid out over the sink with his hands pinned behind his back. Russia had caught him alone in the bathroom again, filling the door with his large frame and shoving America back inside before pinning him. Logically, America knew he could burn Russia, shock him— Hell, he could even shove him away with wind, but instead he froze in place as the edge of the sink pressed into his gut. Russia's clear disappointment in his lack of resistance did not help bury the shame bubbling in his gut.
"You can do better than this." Russia sighed.
"I know." America whispered.
Russia grabbed his throat and he froze. "Then do better."
America shut his eyes, but forced them open because when he only had a hand and tickling breath to go off of, all he could think about was the soldier— "I can't."
Russia let go of him and walked out. America watched him go and hunched over the sink, head in his hands. Anger pierced the hollow numbness taking hold and he acknowledged it as Vale's.
"Alfred, next time kick his ass." she demanded.
America wiped the blood from his nose and shook his head. No. I don't want to hurt him. He's my friend.
"He'd heal from it. And I'm pretty sure friends don't beat each other up."
I already told you Russia is weird like that. He's just trying to help.
"I don't think he is. And you know it." Vale pressed.
America swallowed his nausea. Maybe, maybe not, but he is helping. I don't flinch as much.
"Because you freeze in place. How is that better?" she growled. "If this is his version of hug therapy he's doing it wrong."
America cringed and decided not to answer her. He silently picked up his bag from by the door and exited the bathroom, nearly running into Canada. His brother opened his mouth but America hurried past him. He didn't feel like talking to his twin at the moment. Mattie probably knew what had happened and would lecture him, just like Vale. Why didn't they understand Russia was trying to assist him? Flinching at every touch was a problem and probably annoying and pathetic and he needed to stop doing it so—
Arms wrapped around America and he froze in place. Oh God he thought Russia was in the other room was he really going to grab him in the halls and demean him where everyone could—
America belatedly realized the arms were too small to be Russia's. He looked down and Nora beamed up at him, smile wide.
"There you are, Alfie. Penny said you would be here." she said brightly, oblivious to his alarm. She struck a pose that would make a superhero proud. "To the secret meeting room!"
Nora grabbed him by the wrist and dragged him past a bemused Canada and back into the bathroom, locking the door behind her. She checked the knob and nodded in satisfaction.
"There we go. The space is secured." She scowled at the walls like they personally offended her. "Ugh, I hate how small this ship is. There isn't even a closet to hide in. So I was wondering if—" Nora paused, smile vanishing. "Are you okay?"
"Great." America breathed. He glimpsed his ashen features in the bathroom mirror and forced his gaze away, swallowing. "Uh. You're holding me a bit tightly."
Nora glanced at his wrist and instantly released him. "Oops. Sorry."
"It's fine." America adjusted his coat and backed up a step, shoving his hands into his pockets. "What's up?"
Nora brightened and clapped her hands together. "I had an idea!"
"Should I be worried? Is the world going to end?"
Nora stuck her tongue out at him. "As I was saying, I had an amazing idea. Since we're all stuck in this dumb ship for another day and can't do anything, how about we quiz Ozpin about Salem and stuff?"
Vale gasped.
America stared at Nora, surprised. "...That's actually a great idea. Why are you bringing it up with me?"
"Duh. Because you have Vale in your head." Nora said. "Vale's the only one who knows him at all and I want to make sure that Ozpin won't hurt us for asking things."
America's eyebrows crept upward. Okay, we really need to get out of this ship and stop the apocalypse because Nora's becoming logical.
"He might try to take over our brains!" Nora hissed.
...Never mind. The apocalypse is still on hold. A thought struck him. He can't take over our brains, right?
"Your brains are safe." Vale said stiffly.
"Vale says we're safe from brain-overtaking." America reported.
Nora breathed a genuine sigh of relief. "See? That's why I'm asking. Cause something I've noticed— and I'm sure you do too— is Ozpin doesn't like to say stuff unless you know what to ask. He's mysterious like that."
America would not call that trait 'mysterious' but he did not argue. "Have you talked about this with anyone else?"
"Just my team and RWBY-the-team." Nora revealed casually. She tapped her chin. "Well, technically I talked with Pyrrha in the bathroom when we do our hair. She talked to Jaune who told Ren who told Blake who told Yang who told—"
"I get the idea." America interrupted. "Do the other nations know?"
Nora shook her head. "Nuh-uh. It's kinda hard to find places to be all secretive and Ozpin might think it was weird if one of us dragged one of them into the bathroom."
America winced. It was disconcerting that merely talking about asking questions had to be kept secret from Ozpin.
Nora did not notice. She considered their surroundings. "Except you because you're kind of our age but you're really not even though you are and wait a minute isn't Jett your age too and so is Feliciano though we don't know him as well as you so it'd still be weird—"
"I got it." America interrupted hastily. "I guess we might as well ask Ozpin since he can't go off somewhere to avoid us."
"That doesn't mean he'll answer." Vale warned.
Why wouldn't he? America asked rhetorically.
"He never told us anything."
America faltered.
Vale chuckled. "What? Did you forget that you have your very own semi-immortal Remnant historian in your head? I already told you: Ozpin never told us about his past, Salem's origins, or anything like that."
He didn't tell you anything about why he and Salem are fighting? Then why would you follow him? America asked, aghast.
"We didn't have a choice." Vale murmured.
America's face drained of color.
"Not like that. Not in that instance." Vale rushed to assure him. Her voice was oddly strained, like she had to force herself to speak. "Let's just say... the Warrior King was too powerful to be ignored."
In that moment, America almost wished his initial thought that the Relic of Choice was involved was true. Instead he was left with questions whose answers had a slim chance of being innocent.
"Nora?" The girl's brow crinkled at his tone. "On second thought, let's be cautious about this, okay?"
All the cheer slipped from Nora's face. "Do we need to get you out of here?" she asked sharply.
America almost wanted to laugh. Even now, she was worried about their precious Relic-key. But what if that was the point? He could not say whether his unease was his own or Vale's. Maybe it belonged to both of them.
"No. Just… Let's just be careful." he said lamely.
Nora studied him, lips pressed thin. "Did Vale say something? Cause we already know Ozpin is shady."
"You don't know the half of it." Vale whispered.
Tell me, America begged.
"I can't." Vale said tightly.
America dragged a hand through his hair but let it go. Fine. Can you at least tell us some questions to try to ask?
Vale hesitated. "What are Salem's powers? Is she the source of the Grimm? Will defeating Salem erase the Grimm? What does she want to do with the Relics? What will happen if all four Relics come together? Can one of the Relics destroy—?" She stopped. "...Don't expect answers."
America grimaced. A thought nagged him, and he reluctantly acknowledged it. Should we try to ditch Ozpin ASAP?
"...I'd say yes, but you might need him to find the Vault in Beacon. I was nev— blindfolded when he took me to it." Vale said reluctantly.
That did not make America feel better. At all. He filled in the blank on what she actually intended to say and shuddered. "Damn it." he whispered. "Why do we have to need him?"
Nora misheard his question. "We need him because he's the only one who knows things we might need to know." she pointed out. "Though he doesn't like to share."
All of America's earlier unease crept back and he chewed on his lip. Yes, Vale had a grudge against Ozpin— she admitted it herself— but although she may be cynical and biting, she would not hold that grudge without reason. If Ozpin wasn't in Oscar's body America might honestly consider ditching him in the woods somewhere and hightailing it away. Instead he took a breath.
"Okay. I've got some questions. The nations will see what's going on and support us when we ask."
Nora giggled. It sounded a bit too high-pitched to be cheerful. "We really don't know what Ozpin is capable of, do we?"
"Nope." America said tiredly. He took a breath. "I'll lead. Let him think it's my idea."
"I've got your back." Nora said seriously.
America would like to think she was being her usual exaggerated self. He knew she wasn't. He opened the bathroom door and led the way out. Sterlyn stared pointedly at him.
"Weird place to pick as your hideout, kids." he said dryly.
"We don't have any other options." Nora groaned. She pointed at the pilot. "Sterlyn, I demand that you add a room to your ship."
"Oh, sure." Sterlyn said dryly. "I'll do you one better and just stick a two-story house right on top. You know, use a little glue and tape to attach it. I'll even paint it bright pink in your honor."
"That's the spirit." Nora said cheerily.
America chuckled weakly and headed down into the cargo hold. Everyone was there, shuffled into little groups as they tried to entertain themselves. America noticed Canada glowering at Russia and winced, reminding himself to try to do something about that later. He noted Penny with Ruby and felt Nora at his shoulder and he exhaled shakily before approaching Oscar.
"Hey."
The boy looked up from the book he was reading and smiled. "Hi, Alfred."
America's heart pounded like a hummingbird's wings. "Sorry to be a jerk, kiddo, but I have to ask Ozpin something."
Oscar winced but set down his book. "What do you want to know?"
America decided not to beat around the bush. "About Salem."
He felt everyone's eyes on him and all other activities were forgotten in favor of listening in.
Wide hazel eyes turned gold.
"Hello, Alfred. What questions do you have?" Ozpin asked calmly.
Vale tensed.
America scratched his cheek with deceptive casualness, forcing his posture to remain lax and unbothered. "Well, I've had a lot of time to think since I'm bored as heck, so I was thinking about Salem. What can she do? What are her powers? What does she want the Relics for? You know, stuff like that."
He kept Nora's involvement out of it, not completely sure why. He was merely being paranoid. Ozpin wasn't some villainous mastermind. He would not kill or hurt his followers for asking questions.
In America's head, Vale's breathing grew rapid.
"I see you've thought about this for a while." Ozpin said, not answering anything.
Unease coiled in America's gut. "Yeah. So, you want to answer my questions?"
Ozpin hummed vaguely. "Such answers are not as simple as you think."
"We have time." Yang said, moving to stand beside America.
He resisted the urge to shoot her a grateful look. This was stupid. Ozpin was one person yet they were acting like he was a bomb ready to explode in their faces. America may be wary and paranoid, but he was not scared of Ozpin. That did not stop him from tensing when golden eyes considered Yang.
"Very well." Ozpin said levelly. "Though I fear I do not have all the answers."
"Called it." Vale whispered but her unease brushed America's mind.
"Well, tell us what you can." America encouraged with a fake grin.
"If I may, I will start with what I do not know." Ozpin deflected. "For example, Salem's exact location."
America did not ask that question yet, but filed away the answer anyway.
"As for her powers, with her acquisition of three of the four Relics, I fear my knowledge may be out of date." Ozpin admitted. "The last time I fought Salem directly was centuries ago." He grimaced. "Due to my dwindling magic, her power is now far greater than mine."
"What are her abilities?" Ruby blurted.
Ozpin looked at her, and America fought the instinctive urge to step between them. Except… the urge wasn't completely his. Vale?
Amber said nothing. If she had a body, America knew her jaw would be clenched and quivering.
"Salem can control Grimm within a certain range, ordering them to attack certain targets and even individual people." Ozpin began. "It is one of the many ways she would assassinate certain threats without drawing attention. No one would blink twice if someone died in a Grimm attack."
America repressed a shudder. "What else?"
"She can also see through Grimm's eyes, but again, her range is limited." Ozpin said. "However, it is her more direct abilities that are more… troublesome."
"Go on." England growled when Ozpin paused.
Ozpin grimaced. "Salem creates Grimm, both from pools and her own blood. She can also use those pools to teleport herself, though doing so weakens her considerably. She has limited shapeshifting that allows her to take on certain features of her Grimm, and allows her to posses the abilities of those Grimm. The Karkadann's poison. The Nevermore's fletchettes and flight. The Nuckelavee's physical distortion and scream. But… most importantly..." His glare darkened. "She can not only enhance negative emotions, but feed off of them."
A cold pit opened in America's stomach.
"Are you saying Salem can terrify us, and that terror makes her stronger?" Weiss asked hesitantly.
"That doesn't sound that bad." Nora snorted.
Ozpin shook his head at her. "You are mistaken, Ms. Valkyrie. You see, Salem can not only enhance those emotions and gain strength from them, but she can enhance them to the point of paralyzing her victim. As I witnessed myself, it is effective even against Silver Eyed Warriors."
Ruby flinched. "What?"
"Salem always preferred fear and despair over anger." Ozpin murmured. "She is so adept at molding it to her desires that she can snuff out the Silver Eyes' rage with terror."
"I thought you said nothing could stop Silver Eyes." Yang demanded. Her eyes flashed red. "Oh, wait. Let me guess. We didn't need to know."
Ozpin's ancient eyes studied her solemnly. "You do not understand. And you will not until you face Salem yourself. She is more powerful than you can imagine."
"I find that hard to believe." England growled. "Maybe if you tried a different tactic than 'throw your soldiers at a wall', then she would not seem so unbeatable."
Ozpin did not deign that with a reply. He smiled at America. The nation and his head-roommate did not trust it one bit. "What were your other questions?"
America decided to continue with something relatively safe. "Is there any way for you to gain more of your magic back?"
"Yes." Ozpin said, surprisingly opaque for once. "Though the methods are..." His gaze flicked to America's and slid to the side, stopping slightly past the nation. "...immoral. I would rather not use them, so I am perfectly content with the amount of magic I have left at the moment."
England frowned at him sharply.
"What does Salem want the Relics for?" America asked quickly.
"To destroy humanity, utterly and completely." Ozpin said.
America had an inkling there was more to it than that. Could a blatant neon sign screaming 'Missing information!' be considered a mere inkling?
"Couldn't she use her Grimm for that?" Blake asked.
"She already tried." Ozpin said. "She failed. The Relics will give her a more… permanent solution."
America shivered and rubbed his arms. "Is Salem the source of the Grimm? Will getting rid of her make them all vanish or something?"
"I do not know." Ozpin admitted.
America knew he was hiding something. Frustratingly, he could not think of the right question to ask. A different question popped into his mind and he straightened. "Can anything destroy a Relic? Say, another Relic?"
Ozpin balked. "What?!"
"Can a Relic destroy another Relic?" America repeated. "Look, if Salem gets all four it'll be bad—"
"Understatement." Blake muttered.
"—so maybe we should consider neutralizing the Relic of Choice when we get it." America continued. He grimaced. "I mean, I know I have to unlock it after we retrieve it from the Vault or I'll star in "Hunt Vale: The Sequel" because it's still locked. So what if we stop Choice or another Relic from working somehow?"
Oscar's tan skin was ashen. "You want to tamper with a Relic gifted from the Gods." Ozpin said lowly.
"Oh, bugger off." England snapped. "Your 'Gods' left the Relic of Choice for humanity to use, so they can bloody well choose to destroy the damn thing to save themselves."
"Yeah." Ruby agreed. "I mean, the Relics have been locked up our out of reach for a while so humanity hasn't really been using them, right? We'll be fine without them."
Ozpin's lips thinned.
"That's a good idea, Alfred." Weiss complemented.
America smiled. It froze on his face when he met piercing golden eyes. Vale gasped quietly— No, that wasn't right. She inhaled sharply, like someone who turned around to find the Grimm Dragon looming behind them. Orange filled America's vision and Penny stared neutrally at Ozpin, having stepped between them.
"Changes in your facial expression indicate an increased probability of aggression. Cease at once." Penny demanded.
America put a hand on her backpack, stopping her weapons from emerging. "It's fine. We just surprised him." he claimed, even though that might not be the case at all.
Penny scowled. Green light flared over Ozpin and golden eyes turned hazel. Oscar slumped forward and America caught him, carefully helping him lay against the wall. The boy's eyes snapped open and America recoiled, struck mute by the fear in his gaze.
"He was angry." Oscar whispered, and America's heart became a lump of ice.
"Are you okay?" he asked quietly.
Oscar nodded but he looked shaken.
A low mumble slowly reached America's ears and he eventually realized it was Vale.
"Shit shit shit shit shit shit shit." Amber chanted.
Vale, please explain. America begged.
"I can't." she stressed.
Vale, you can't just freak out in the background like that and expect me to let it go. You mistrust Ozpin for a reason.
She shifted uncomfortably.
America's hands trembled. You… mistrust Ozpin for a reason. What is it?
Silence met his question.
America was finding it difficult to breathe. Vale, you're freaking me out. Please tell me if I need to get my family away from him.
"He… won't hurt them intentionally." Vale said slowly.
That's not comforting.
She growled in frustration. "It's not— Don't misunderstand. He isn't evil."
That was not something America needed to hear. She didn't say "He's not a threat." or "He's a good guy." She said "He isn't evil."
A chill went up America's spine. Oh. My. God. Vale, what the hell—
"You don't matter." Vale blurted like the words were torn from her throat. "No individual lives matter. All he cares about is defeating Salem."
America knew that. Well, he didn't know, but he suspected. Yet having it put into words shot ice through his veins, chilling him to his core.
"He's not evil." Vale repeated desperately. "He's just too focused on his goals. He doesn't see the little picture. He doesn't see the pain he causes when he throws people's lives away—" She stopped. "You can't… Don't trust Ozpin to choose you over Salem's possible defeat. If he sees a use for you in his fight, he will use you as his guardian. If you die in battle, he moves on to his next chosen one. It isn't done out of malice. He just can't seem to change his tactics. He's..."
...just trying to defeat Salem, end his curse, and save Remnant. America finished.
Vale did not reply. America wanted to believe she was horribly off base. That she did not have all the answers. That she misunderstood Ozpin and his motives. He wanted to dismiss her vague warnings as baseless paranoia. But he couldn't because although Vale hardly knew Ozpin, she knew him a lot better than America did.
Suddenly, the airship was much, much too small.
What aren't you telling me? America asked.
"I can't." Vale said tersely, voice strained.
You can't what?
"I can't." she repeated.
Yes, you can. America snapped. You can just tell me what the hell makes you so scared of him—
Her earlier words came back to his mind.
"We didn't have a choice."
"Not like that. Not in that instance."
Ozpin knew about many things. About Salem, about the Grimm, about the Relics, about how the Relics worked.
He said the Relic of Choice could be used to make infinite choices possible.
He also said the Relic of Choice could be used to take choices away.
How would he know that?
Vale? America thought tremulously. Did Ozpin use the Relic of Choice to force you to keep his secrets?
She grunted.
Not in derision.
But like she'd been physically gagged.
"...I can't." Vale finally choked.
America belatedly realized he was standing in place, staring at Oscar with a horrified expression. He forced himself to smile. "Sorry for causing you a scare, kiddo."
Oscar's brow furrowed but he smiled hesitantly back. "It's okay. I'm glad you got some answers out of him."
"Fat load of good they were." England muttered.
America's gaze jerked to the necklace around his brother's neck and he resisted the urge to run over and force England to shatter it, whisking him out of Ozpin's reach.
"He's not evil." Vale repeated with a hint of desperation. "I just didn't want to—" She stopped as if silenced by a hand over her mouth.
America swallowed a retch. He could not let himself panic. Not in front of everyone and Ozpin. They had to be careful. Vale never denied that Ozpin silenced her, but he could be using his own power instead of a Relic. But he wasn't evil. He wasn't. Because he wanted Salem defeated which was for the good of humanity, right?
America wandered over to Canada, gripping Penny and Nora's hands as he went and dragging them away with him. The latter girl pouted at his apparent revenge for earlier, unaware that he wanted to put as much distance between her and Ozpin as possible.
But he was overreacting.
He was paranoid.
He was seeing things that were not there.
Vale might be insinuating things that were untrue.
America wished he could delude himself into thinking that. Instead he sat with his twin and wondered how he could warn everyone they might need to ditch Oscar when they stopped in town without alerting Ozpin.
Except they might need Ozpin to reach the Relic. If they did not reach the Relic, Salem would never stop hunting America. With Salem hunting America, the worlds were always at risk.
We're stuck with him, aren't we? Shit.
America did not know what to think.
He did not know what to do.
One thing was for certain.
The airship felt a lot less safe.
XXXXXXX
A/N: And today on "How NOT to help America get better (And Also Make Many Things Worse)": Russia's bored, America's so far in denial Egypt is going to file a complaint, Weiss has issues, Ozpin is shady (surprise surprise), and Agate extends a hand of peace while they have a knife up their sleeves (just in case…) Disagree with that last one if you want but I honestly believe the personifications of Earth would extend a friendly (or more accurately "friendly") hand before trying force. They know better than anyone that violence only leads to more violence (and they have all the time in the world to sneak their way into their prisoner's head). Doesn't mean they'll sit back and smile if he tries anything though. They're willing to try the peaceful (and maybe manipulative) route, not pushovers.
I know a lot happened this chapter but again, I put two chapters together. It probably messed with the pacing but I don't really care, haha.
Also: I've noticed words in my documents keep getting switched around or deleted. For example: "less" becomes "let's", "they" becomes "the" and a lot of plural words lose the "s" at the end. I don't know why it's happening, but it's annoying AF. Another example: when I went back in to add this note, "peace" had become "piece". (annoyed sigh) I sometimes don't notice it so please tell me if something is wrong.
Thanks to everyone who read, reviewed, etc! See you Friday.