Wow, guys! Thanks for all your lovely reviews! There were so many that I felt a little tear run down my eye. Or at least I would of if I was crier, but I'm not, so I was just wore a large smile on my face for a while.
Also, sorry I took so long to update but college has started back up and I've been really busy. Plus my laptop is in the reapir shop. I hope this really long chapter makes up for it.
Disclaimer: I haven't spontaneously became rich or a president, so I can't claim to own any Hetalia countries. Though months are cheaper than nations so I own May...the character of course.
Frozen (also know as Stilled): Incapable of being changed or undone
May 1943
Does that even count as inconsistency? It could be that the anime didn't show it, but it still happened in this world.
I scratched out some of the writing in the notebook since I was unconvinced the incident had been an inconsistency and felt it required a second glance. All the while I tried to block out the heated dialogue coming from around the table.
"We've been waiting over twenty minutes! I've better things to do!"
"Oui! You could be spending this time letting me design your uniform so you can stop looking like a ruffian!"
"I look fine as I am! Now get your rose out of my face!"
"Not that I care if that commie shows up, but even China's already here, and that's totally saying something!"
"Shut up, aru!"
Ugh, they're ruining my thought process. I released a harsh sigh as I found myself subconsciously drawn to their conversation.
"May, are you okay?" Canada's timid question barely broke through the myriad of voices speaking. I looked over to his spot on the left, and could easily discern the honest worry in his violet eyes, though I was certain he only saw fraying patience in my blue ones.
"Yeah, I'm just having trouble figuring out how much my presence is affecting this world, which is hard to estimate by itself without this-" I gestured to the crowd of babbling nations. "To distract me." I didn't restrain the irritation from slipping into my tone, knowing Canada would realize it wasn't aimed at him.
"Hm." Canada made a soft sound of acknowledgement, but he seemed just as aware as I was that my problem was beyond him. Sadly, I felt it may have been beyond me too as I returned my gaze to my notes.
Now if only I can figure out if Canada was in that episode. Did the anime not show him to emphasize his invisible quality? Or was he never supposed to be there? Ughhh, I don't know! I mentally screamed and had a strong urge to slam my fist into the table.
"Huh?!"
My head shot up when it suddenly came to my attention that an attendant was standing nearby, though that wasn't shocking in itself since the Allies occasionally had attendants serve snacks during meetings. The only issue here was how the attendant was staring at me in all my 21st century glory. No doubt he had been prepared to ask whether I needed anything, but had became tongue-tied after he took in my outfit.
I forgot a non-nation was going be here today. In his defense, I knew the white hoodie, with a purposely faded image of a flowing American flag on it, and the black sweatpants I wore were hardly common clothing in the 20th century.
"What 'sup?" I reluctantly acknowledged the man's presence over the content of my notebook.
"Would you like some tea? Or coffee?" The man found his voice, though a heavily accented one, but I managed to figure out what he was saying.
"Naw, I'm good, 'cous." I replied dismissively, unaware that he might not comprehend my modern slang while I rubbed my eyes.
I love you caffeine, but I think we need some time apart. While some of me itched to cave into my body's desire for the caffeine aroma emitting from a nearby mug, the rational section of my brain reminded me that I had already drank a dozen cups of coffee in the past two days and how that wasn't exactly healthy.
Its not my fault. I need to figure this out. I hadn't slept in the past three days, which I didn't find troublesome because being frozen in time, along with excessive amounts of caffeine in my blood, kept me feeling wide awake. However, I was aware I would soon be suffering from the dreaded low that came after a caffeine high and not even my frozen in time status would be able to keep me up once it hit.
"No?" The man didn't sound too certain about my answer, but he still walked off while I went back to concentrating on the information in the notebook.
No more procrastinating, you've got to figure this out! I tried to regain my focus.
"I'm sorry that I'm late." The familiar Russian accented voice caused me and Canada to look up as the missing nation burst into the room. "I had to take care of something." He spoke with an innocent smile, but I chocked on a gasp when I took in his full appearance.
Ya good, Russia?! 'Cause I think Al Capone has "taken care of" people less obviously! My eyes were wide while I stared at the bright red staining the bottom of Russia's coat. Yet I seemed to be the only one disturbed by the sight of blood as all the other nations, even Canada, didn't blink at Russia's "serial killer" look. To make certain I wasn't seeing things, I searched for the only other non-nation in the room to see how he was reacting.
There he is. The attendant didn't seem to have noticed Russia's appearance yet.
Thus he calmly walked behind Britain with a glass of water on his platter while the irritated Brit interrogated, "What took you so long? Were you busy selling vodka or something?" Britain was more brash than usual with Russia, but I figured his anger of having to wait so long had blinded him to the danger of upsetting Russia.
"My boss caught me right when I was leaving. I got a really raw deal." Russia explained, unperturbed by Britain's hostility, even appearing mildly guilty for being late. "He told me to stop tanks with my bare hands." Russia concluded, causing America spring out of his seat in order to examine him closer.
"Did you do it?" America asked, oblivious, and I was certain I wasn't the only one to face palm over his question.
"Ah... I-Is he alright?!" The attendant suddenly noticed the blood dripping off Russia and seemed horrified.
So I'm not seeing things, I'm just surrounded by insane nations... Must be a Monday... A Manic Monday... I briefly smiled to myself over the pun.
"It's nothing new for Russia." France responded in an careless manner, causing the attendant to look even more freaked out.
"что?!" The attendant shouted in what sounded like Russian, though I barely overheard it as France started showering Russia in compliments, probably in a ploy to get on the nation's good side.
This again? I ignored the countries in favor of watching the Russian attendant cautiously step away from the table. Likely he was thinking of seeking a new career or at least to never cater to our group again, and by the time he reached the doorway, he was practically sprinting away from us.
I shook my head in shame before addressing Canada. "I know you guys probably aren't super familiar with what us mortal humans see as odd, but you could at least try not to terrify them all?" I asked, exasperation lining my tone.
Canada looked at me quizzically before he noticed that the attendant had disappeared. "Eh? That's the fifth one this month-" I felt startled by his admittance, but we both hushed on instinct as a sickly purple mist abruptly began to fill the room.
"Why don't we try making your gum bleed a little?" Russia questioned, his smile bright, though the way he was practically in America's face revealed his true feelings.
"No thank you!" America spoke with a grin of his own, however, I couldn't tell whether he was oblivious or uncaring to the danger he was in.
"Hey, Britain! Stop them!" France cried out from his chair, which was dangerously close to the confrontation. Thus, we all turned to Britain in expectancy while the tense aura thickened.
"..." Britain didn't hold anybody's eye as he seemed filled with trepidation at the suggestion. Clearly, without his prior irritation to fuel him, he was as terrified of Russia as usual.
I ain't about this dying life, so if someone could do something that would be nice.
No one was willing to intervene, not even me (I'm brave, not stupid!). Therefore, in attempt to escape what could get bloody, I twisted in my seat to face Canada.
"Got an excuse to get us out of here?" I requested, and then waited patiently while Canada started searching through his suitcase. Quickly, he tugged out the coupon book, which both of us had grown familiar with over the past few months.
Glad he's actually using it. I knew Canada wasn't the type to ask anything of anyone, even if he wanted to, which is why I had gave him a coupon book. Instead of having to muster up the courage to speak, he could use the book as an excuse to talk to me without over exerting himself. Though I found it adorable how he always asked whether it was really okay for him to request this or that and how I didn't have to do it if I don't want to(typical Canada).
"They're gone." I followed Canada's gaze, and noted that all the coupons below the "escape meetings" page were missing.
"Just great." I muttered sarcastically, watching America and Russia's interaction with growing worry. "Why can't the world be full of a hundred Canadas?!" I asked with exaggerated despair.
Canada didn't have time to reply before Russia suddenly started to chuckle.
"..." I think we all found his laughter eerie until we sensed the tension in the room drop to safe levels. "I was just the kidding with you." Russia admitted, smiling more genuinely, and America blinked in confusion before he laughed in return like he had known all along (doubtful).
"I-I suppose we should get this meeting started then?" Britain finally gathered the courage to interrupt. Hence, Russia took his seat by France while America returned to his place beside me. I wanted to hit him upside the head for being so reckless, but I held myself back and resumed my conversation with Canada.
"At least we won't have to deal with you-know-who again." I mentioned idly, placing a hand under my chin while I watched the meeting commence with Britain taking the lead.
"That's good, eh? He can be, um, intrusive when we're together." Canada said in the kindest way possible.
True dat! I recalled the various times America had barged in on my and Canada's recent escapades, which had been happening more often lately due to the coupon book.
He's so noisy! To be honest, I didn't mind the fact America would frequently interrupt my and Canada's conversations because I felt it was good for Canada to have more interaction with his brother. Also, it was nice to spend time with a nation that America approved of associating with me.
I don't need his approval. I huffed to myself, yet I acknowledged it would be harder to enjoy myself if they didn't get along. Therefore it was fortunate, after my reassurance that I did not favor Canada over him, America seemed pretty comfortable with the friendly relationship I had with his brother.
Maybe too comfortable. To my and Canada's chagrin, it seemed America had picked up on my moderate attraction to Canada (can't blame me!), and rather enjoyed using that knowledge to tease the both of us.
America poked his head in the dining room, and with an oh so innocent grin, questioned, "So did y'all get hitched yet?" Thus I nearly performed a spit take of my coffee while Canada just looked confused.
"W-what are you talking about, America?"
"You know," America continued causally. "Did you make May into my sister-in-law yet?" The dawning of understanding appeared on Canada's face and his eyes widened. "You shouldn't keep my favorite gal waiting when you see the way she sighs over you- Oof!" I hopped to my feet and elbowed him in the ribs. My blushing was only less prominent than Canada's because my irritated scowl covered it up.
"...Too far?" America didn't have much time to brace himself before I tackled him to the ground and Canada was staring at us like we were insane-
"Are you feeling alright?" Canada asked, removing me from my world of memories. "You're face looks a little red." Canada asked in concern, but I felt myself mildly embarrassed that the emotions of the past had caught up to me in present day. It didn't help that I was sitting right next to the source of my embarrassment.
"I-I'm fine." I turned my face away, hoping to rid myself of the blush by focusing on someone else.
"Sluuuuurrppp!" I watched America drink loudly from his soda and I knew I couldn't be the only cringing at his lack of manners.
Britain glared at him before clearing his throat and continuing, "As I was-"
"Sluuurrrppp!"
"...Attempting to-"
"Sluuurrrppp!"
"...say," Britain ignored America's interruptions, merely rubbed his forehead in frustration, and for once seemed unwilling to start an argument with him. It was rare, but every now an then, even Britain didn't feel the need to chide him.
Good. They fighting way too much and about everything. Heck, they even fight over me! In a manner resembling two kids attempting to beat each other at tug-of-war, they frequently argued about all matters concerning me.
And then revealed that the murderer was-
"Yo, dude!" America's shout nearly caused me to fall out of my chair and drop the book. However, I quickly reoriented myself and looked up to find America hovering by me. I was also a bit surprised to glance around and see none of the other nations in the room.
"What are you doing? We gotta get home and pick up some burgers!" America asked while I got up and carried the book with both hands.
"Sorry, I just got really caught up in this story." I held up the novel for America to see. "I can't resist the writing of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle after all." I sighed happily.
"Oh." America stared at the book, an odd look briefly crossing his face as he seemed to recognize it, while I took the initiative to walk towards the exit. "Where'd you get it from?"
"I found it lying on the table." I passed through the doorway but looked over my shoulder to continue the conversation with America. "I think someone must have left it be-"
"Oh, my book!" Britain's voice caused me to snap my head in his direction.
...Was he just chilling out here the whole time?
"How foolish of me to forget it on the table." Britain sounded a little off when he reached for the book and I allowed him to take it. "At least you enjoyed the reading, correct?" Britain questioned expectantly while America came up behind me.
"I thought it was really good! Especially when Sherlock-"
"Let's get those burgers!" America suddenly grabbed my arm and was rushing us out the building. Yet I didn't fail to notice Britain hadn't looked angered by the interruption, but in fact, appeared to almost be smirking.
I was also fairly certain that it was no accident how I found another book lying on the table at the next day's meeting. Though this one had been written by Mark Twain, and as I reached for it in order to free myself of boredom, I had the oddest feeling I was being watched intensely. And I certainly noted the triumphant smile America sent Britain after I returned America's "missing" novel to him.
I sighed while observing both Britain and America, one of them do his best to lead and the other stuffing his face with fries.
I'm really getting tired of being a mouse in a maze with those two. While I didn't think America ultimately had much of a problem with the friendship I held with Britain, I was certain that it annoyed him a bit. Perhaps it was jealousy that another country was a friend of mines or maybe it was simply because Britain and him had the annoying tendency to fight over everything in the universe. Whichever it was, I was determined to find out eventually.
On the bright side, it's better than his deal with France. I glanced over at the European nation who currently happened to be powdering his nose.
Can't blame him when French fries annoys me too. I didn't actively seek out France's company, but he always managed to find me.
"Mon amour, je veux voir plus de vous." France stood in the doorway, halting my attempt to follow America out.
I raised an eyebrow at the "charming" smile he sent at me, and then I crossed my arms. "I've got three things to say." I raised my pointer finger. "One: Flynn does the smolder face a lot better than you and he's a Disney prince for goodness sake." I lifted my chin up to stand taller as I briefly pondered on what to say next.
In Spanish, "veer" means to "see" and that sounds like "voir". "Plus" might relate to "plus" in English which implies larger or "more". And "de" means "of" in Spanish and probably means the same in French. Then "vous" sounds a lot like the Spanish "vosotros", which means "you".
Making an educated guess, I announced, "Second, I took enough Spanish to know your saying something about 'seeing more of me' and I sincerely hope you mean that in a way where my clothes stay on." I sighed, yet France merely smiled wider.
"Spanish?! My dear, you would of done better to study French! Then you and me could speak more freely on matters of love without the others-"
"Thirdly," I interrupted, looking past France's shoulder to see the ticket to my freedom. "You're still a French fry, France, and I don't know if you noticed," The temperature dropped in the room and even France's face fell as he sensed the sudden danger. "Us Americans like to eat french fries for breakfast."
"Hey there, Frenchie!" America shouted from his place behind France. I had apparently been the only one to notice his arrival seconds ago, as France jumped up about a mile in surprise and bumped his head on the doorway in result.
"Woah, dude! I didn't know you could jump so high!"
France's only response was to moan in pain, from where he collapsed onto the floor, while I bypassed him to enter the hallway.
"...Is he alright?"
"He'll walk it off...probably..."
I dragged my eyes away from France when I observed how he had finally put down his mirror and was now looking around the room in boredom. Before he ended up noticing my staring, I let my eyes roam over to China. He appeared to be one of the few nations actually paying Britain proper attention. Despite his attention though, he still seemed very aware of his surroundings as he didn't need to glance away from the front board before he smacked away one of Russia's hands, which had been inching closer to him.
I don't really know him. Honestly, I and China rarely talked more than likely because our paths never really crossed. I'd greet him at meetings, but besides that, we usually didn't associate.
I think I talked to him about Chinese dishes once. Didn't he give me the recipe for T'so chicken? The memory was blurry, which provided more evidence that it was rare for the two of us to converse.
Did I ever thank him for that recipe? Suddenly China's back stiffened, and as if sensing my staring, he started to glance around the room. This led me to immediately shifting my eyes to observe the nation on his right.
Now here's a nation I seriously don't talk to. Russia was also paying attention to the discussion of battle strategies and how the war was going for Britain, and his smile remained planted on his face despite the serious problems being discussed.
It's not really my fault I don't talk to him. Though America often seemed comfortable with Canada, competitive with Britain, wary of France, and indifferent to China most days, he was entirely antagonistic towards Russia. Therefore, if he had anything to say about it, I was to be nowhere near said nation. It didn't bother me that much, considering how I felt a tad wary of Russia myself, but even if I wanted to establish a relationship with him, I couldn't.
He doesn't even approve of Russia glancing in my direction. If America caught Russia standing a mere foot beside me or sitting in the next seat over, he always found a way to get inbetween us. I think Russia actually found it amusing, which would explain why he had recently made a lot more attempts to sit next to me at meetings than he had in the past. It was simply meant to get a reaction from America who was not above telling the European to "back off!", though in more explicit terms.
"Staring. Staring. Staring." The whispered words coming from seemingly nowhere caused my mind to jumpstart and return to the present. As my eyes refocused, I suddenly noticed Russia was looking back at me.
"..." I wasn't sure what to do now that I had been caught gawking at him, but for the sake of politeness, I decided it was best to send a small, friendly smile to Russia.
In response, Russia's grin grew, however, I couldn't help but shudder a bit as I took in his eyes.
It's like staring into the abyss of darkness! Soon, I couldn't maintain eye contact so I forced my eyes downward and pretended to be reading my notes again.
"Save yourself, dudeeeee!" America's shout faded as he sped out of the door, his boots tossing snow back in his haste, while a breeze of cold wind assaulted me before the door shut. Thankfully, I had thrown my black coat and gloves on so I wasn't too bothered by the temperature.
"He does realize there are probably no American restaurants in this entire country, right?" I muttered offhandedly, for once not joining my nation on a food run. Since the meeting was in a building far from any Russian city, with only planes as our mode of travel because cars weren't efficient on the occasional icy road, America had packed burgers so we wouldn't have to travel for food. Yet, that plan had crashed and burned when lunch break began and he realized he had already ate it all. Now, to make it up to me despite my assurance I could go without lunch, he had insisted on flying to the nearest restaurant while I waited here.
I could spend this time looking for my scarf. Somehow I had managed to lose the blue article of clothing on my way to the meeting room this morning. I recalled having the scarf on as I exited the plane, but I realized it wasn't in my bag when I put my coat back on after we went on break.
Where could it have gone? Since I was near the building's entrance, I started walking towards the meeting room because I assumed the scarf must of fallen in the hallway. I scanned the ground as I walked, not truly looking ahead, which is why I was startled when a dark brown lump suddenly ran up to me.
"Meow." I stared blankly at what I now recognized to be a very fluffy and large cat.
Aw, now where did this little fur ball of joy come...from... Is this Russia-cat?! It had taken me a moment to rid myself of the blinding effect of kawaii!, but now it was obvious this feline was more than likely the nation cat.
"Meow-meow." The cat spoke happily, it's head bobbing, as if he was answering my mental question before he strutted over to my legs and rubbed against them.
I'm not sure if this version of Russia is trying to become one with me by stealing my heart with his cute little paws and fluffy fur and pretty eyes...but I'm not fighting it!
"You're such a cute boy, aren't you?" The cat started purring as he rubbed against my leg and I wondered if I was so far gone in kawaii! that I had anime hearts in my eyes while I bent down to pet his head.
"MEOOOW!" The defiant screech caused me to freeze and lift my head just in time to see a tan blur lunging towards the Russian. However, I doubted I or America-cat saw Russia-cat duck before my poor nation was soaring above his intended target and crashed into the hallway wall.
"Oooh." I winced in pain for my feline companion as the bang resounded in the hallway, but I wasn't too surprised when America-cat merely straightened himself out a second later. Then he swiveled towards me with less grace than usual and his eyes locked onto the larger cat standing by me.
"Meeeooow!" He screeched and lunged towards Russia-cat again, said feline seeming more humored than afraid of his antics, but I decided to intervene regardless.
"Hold up, Ameri-bro!" I grabbed him by his thick collar before he could rush at Russia-cat. I soon found myself struggling to maintain my hold.
No, I'm not about to have those mochi shorts come to life! I recalled the bloody encounter the mochi versions of Russia and America had in World Twinkle with great disdain.
"Chill out!" I ordered when America-cat continued to reach his clawed paws out towards Russia-cat.
"Meow-meow. Meooow?" Russia-cat sounded harmless as he stared up at us, but whatever he said couldn't have been that innocent because it caused America-cats's ears to flatten against his head and his attempts to free himself intensified. Unprepared for the fierce struggle, he wiggled out of my grasp.
"Meooow!" He ran straight for Russia-cat, who quickly decided to use me for cover and started to run around me. Within seconds, I felt like a Looney Tunes' character while I watched the cats chase each other in circles around my legs.
"Uhhh..." I wasn't certain how to stop the little rascals, but it seemed I didn't have to as Russia-cat leapt out of the circular path and planted himself on the sideline.
"Meow-meow." It nearly sounded like Russia-cat was chuckling as we both watched America-cat continue to run in circles around me, without realizing he was no longer chasing anyone.
"...?" I knew I was sweat dropping as I watched the American feline zoom around me. I might of allowed him to continue, but then I remembered my scarf was still missing so I decided to end this.
"Alfie? Alfieeee?" I called, but the cat continued running like one of those toy planes attached to a string hanging off the ceiling. "America-cat!" I shouted loudly, and finally he heard me and skidded to a stop. Immediately, he glanced around in confusion.
Know what? I'm done catsitting.
I sighed and pointed down the hall I had came from. "He went that way." America-cat eyed where I was pointing, a determined glint entered his eyes, and then he jetted off. I actually wasn't certain where Russia-cat had ran off, but I couldn't bring myself to care before resuming my search.
The room should be coming up. I walked further down the hall while hoping I wouldn't get lost since I wasn't familiar with the layout of this building. After all, it was rare for the Allies to come here because the freezing winter and late spring (it can snow in May!) made travel harder in comparison to other countries. Also, I was under the impression everyone trusted Russia the least due to his past dealings with Germany and communism.
Poor Russia. The minute this war ends a lot of countries aren't going to remain by his side. My ponderings ended when my ears caught onto the sound of voices.
I guess most nations packed and stuck around... Speaking of nations, I wonder if Canada ran off to get his lunch. When I neared the corner of the hallway, I slowed because I didn't want to intrude on their conversation.
"You do not feel same way about brash America?" I came to a dead stop at the sound of Russia's voice.
"W-Why would I want to do that?! Sure he's annoying but that doesn't mean I have any desire to 'squish' him!" I peeked around the corner in order to confirm that it was indeed Russia and Britain speaking.
Strange, I don't think the anime's ever shown them hold an actual conversation... Welp, I'm out! While I did feel bad about abandoning Britain, I didn't feel comfortable being near Russia on most days; let alone when America was gone. And though I could handle myself, Russia never came off as approachable to me.
Plus America would have a fit. America would never actually prevent me from speaking to whoever I wanted (land of the free, remember?), but l felt like I would be betraying him if I started talking to Russia. Sort of like when I was friend's with Armani in high school, but one of my other friends couldn't stand her. She tended to talk about Armani in not so flattering terms, and while I never said much on the matter for the sake of maintaining peace between me and her, I sometimes felt like I was betraying Armani simply by hanging out with that friend.
To be fair, it's not like Russia isn't just as antagonist towards America.
"Oh, it seem we have visitor." I had gotten so lost in thought that I had given Russia time to catch sight of me.
Dang it! A part of me wanted to flee, but I still needed to check if my scarf was nearby and I didn't want to be rude to Russia. Therefore, I reluctantly walked over to the pair.
"M-may? What are you doing here?" Britain sounded shaky as he faced me, which was to be expected considering who he had just spoken to. "Shouldn't you be with America?" Britain held a quizzical expression, though his eyes leaned more towards sympathetic as we both were now trapped in Russia's presence.
"Yeah, but he left to find burgers." I explained with a bit of humor as the ridiculousness of the statement hit me.
"Haha, America will not find that in my land." Russia briefly chuckled in what seemed to be genuine amusement.
"True, but you know how he can be." I mentioned, a little disturbed by the way Russia's attention shifted to me at the words. In fact, the only thing preventing me from running was how I at least had Britain right beside me.
"That is fine. It is easier to squish them when they are not smart." Russia mentioned happily while I and Britain gave him disturbed looks.
Maybe he won't notice if I back up real slow-
"Can't believe this, aru! I would of raise him better!" The shout distracted us from the uncomfortable moment and we all turned to see China muttering to himself as he passed through the adjacent hallway. Wow, he looks pissed. I found it odd how China was so upset that he didn't notice us, especially because China wasn't the explosive type.
"It seem our ally is angry, da? I should follow and make sure he is alright." Russia also noted China's unusual behavior and didn't hesitate to leave in order to check on (more like pester) China.
"Talk about being saved by the bell... I miss that show." I muttered, causing Britain to send me a confused expression.
"I beg your pardon?"
"I basically said I'm glad China came when he did."
"I concur." Britain nodded.
Should of asked him about the scarf though. A mindful voice in my head reminded me that Russia might of understood my particular dilemma.
"Aw man, I forgot to ask him about my scarf!" I shouted, mentally chiding myself.
"Your scarf?" Britain's eyes dropped to my bare neck.
"Yeah, I think I dropped it around here." I looked down as another thought occurred to me. "But maybe it's not in here. I should check outside-"
"You'll do no such thing!" The vehemence of Britain's declaration caused me to snap to attention. "You can't go outside without proper protection or you'll become ill!" Britain concluded, the suddenness of scolding preventing me from formulating a response. Thus, I felt frozen as I watched him tug out a white scarf from his uniform pocket.
"I was..." I couldn't get the words out before Britain tossed his scarf around my neck and then started looping it.
"America must be infecting you with his idiocy if you have such foolish ideas-" Britain's words sounded muted when this scenarios brought up an old memory.
"I'm gonna make a snow angel!" I was perhaps six as I threw on my pink bubble coat and struggled into my white boots by the front door.
"Don't forgot your scarf!" My mother called out from the kitchen, but I barely heard her as I tugged open the door and ran into the front yard. Soon after, I flopped onto a soft patch of snow before spreading my arms out.
"Didn't I tell you to put on your scarf?" My mother had made to the doorway and poked her head out to stare at me knowingly. She was holding a soft frown as she hid most of her body in the warm house.
"Oh, let her live a bit." My father came to my rescue as he walked pass her while wearing his own bubble coat.
My mother raised an eyebrow at the lack of a hat or scarf on my father's head before saying, "Fine. When you both get a cold, I'm not helping." My mother tisked to herself before shutting the door.
My father shrugged off her threat, probably used to her mother henning, as I got up and looked down at my creation in the snow.
"That's a pretty angel there, scout." My father noted with a proud smile. "But she'll be a lonely angel if we don't give her a friend."
My eyes lit up at the prospect. "Like a snowman?!" I asked hopefully. My father nodded, and for the next hour, we would fail at making a snowman.
Furthermore, when both my father and I were sick as dogs from our snow time adventure, my mother wouldn't say "I told you so" before making us some warm tea and giving us heated blankets-
"There." Britain finished tying the scarf, and the pressure around my neck brought me back to the present. However, I was still reeling from the flashback and the oddness of Britain's actions so I simply blinked owlishly at him.
"...Is it too tight?" Britain questioned, his voice holding a slight hitch while light pink graced his cheeks. My staring and silence making him realize what he had just done and causing tsundere embarrassment to smack him upside the head.
"But, um, what about you?" I finally managed to speak.
"D-Don't be stupid!" Britain interjected, covering up his embarrassment with anger. "I'm not mortal like you. It's highly unlikely I'll get a cold and even if I did, it wouldn't be as worrying as you getting sick." Britain huffed.
I smiled at his tsundere moment, holding back laughs, but then offered, "Thanks, Britain."
Britain was unprepared for the acknowledgment and his face heated up more. "I-I just don't want to hear that fool complaining to me about you catching a cold!" Britain crossed his arms and looked everywhere except at me.
Goodness, Britain can be such a mother hen. I kept the thought at bay, knowing Britain would be a sputtering mess if I voiced it.
"Aha! I knew you two would be sneaking around here." France suddenly stood by the corner of the hallway, his eyes narrowed at Britain.
"Whatever do you want, frog face?" Britain glared at him, all traces of embarrassment replaced by a scowl on his face.
"I want many things, Monsieur." France began, leering at him after he strolled over. "But I doubt you could help, considering you don't have an active sex life-"
"I'm going check outside for my scarf." I muttered quickly, though I doubted they heard me over their own shouting match. Thus, I began walking back towards the hallway, which lead to the exit.
I really don't need to hear about Britain's...
I halted, my head went blank, and I felt my eyes widen.
Youzzzttt
The buzz was swarming my brain and I felt my breathing quicken.
Not...now! It was a struggle to express the simplest of my own thoughts before the buzz dashed away any ounce of personal will I maintained.
Meet mezzzZZZ
I wanted to run away, but it was as if I had taken a back seat in my own body.
Blue was rolling in.
Somehow, I could still hear Britain and France, though their voices were fading as fast as my sight was being overran by blue.
Help...Please!I silently prayed one of them would notice my immobile body around the corner.
Water's so cold... I knew what fainting felt like, I had been through navy training after all, but this wasn't like that.
There was no ringing in my ears, just buzzing.
There was no black spots, merely blue blue glaze coating my vision like a tide pulling in.
The ocean was filling and I was submerged.
zzZNot too long and wezzzz
I was too calm, too limp to fight the waves.
It's alright, keep goizzz
The tides rocked me like a child and the sandy bottom looked so warm.
Not...not right! The haze of blue was losing vibrancy.
I reached towards the sky, away from ocean.
Almostzzzstop strugglzZZ
Get off! I resisted the warm blanket of ocean
Waves sucked me down, but I paddled up up up.
Blue couldn't remain.
Come homezzz
There was nothing but white
I gasped sharply and collapsed onto my knees.
W-What?! My heart rate was dangerously high, and I didn't try to calm it while my ears were being assaulted by the harsh sound of roaring wind.
Where am I? The world was dark, light snow was whipping into my face, and I was slowly becoming very aware I wasn't alone.
Oh no. If I felt like my heart was going to burst out of my chest before, I was certain I was having a heart attack as three men covered in thick, black coats approached me. That wouldn't have been so intimidating by itself, but the swastika symbol on the bands around their arms was.
"What's happening?" I tried to shout, but I couldn't force my voice above a whisper. In fact, I felt so drained that I wasn't sure whether I could even lift a finger.
Get up! The order to myself was overruled by the realization that I was incapacitated. Normally, I would have a chance to fight back and win against as many as three average people. However, the probability of escape was low when I could hardly raise my head to face the one man taking the initiative and stretching his gloved hand towards me. I could make little of his expression since they all had scarves wrapped over the majority of their faces, but the Nazi symbol was threatening enough.
Stay away. I was panicking over my helplessness and the uncertainty of the Nazi's intention.
"Ah!" The hand disappeared from view as the man was tossed back by an invisible force, and even his two companions seemed startled.
"I don't think you should be doing that to small girl." It turned out the force wasn't as invisible as I thought as the tall figure of Russia stalked into my view. I couldn't even fathom the suddenness of his appearance before the Nazis spun back to face him and Russia immediately yanked the gun out of one man's hands.
"Aufhalten!" I heard the other man shout above the wind after he saw Russia bring the gun down on the head of his companion.
"I'm sorry, we're you speaking?" Russia swiveled towards the German soldier, but a sudden blast of yellow light, resembling a spark of fire, erupted between them and my vision briefly went white.
I blinked furiously to clear it, and though I knew my blindness couldn't have lasted more than a ten seconds, I wondered if it had been longer when it cleared and now I only held Russia in sight.
My gaze dropped in confusion, only for me to see the unmoving form of the German soldier on the ground besides Russia's boots. "I-Is he..."
"You are hard girl to find." Russia, whether intentional or not, saved me from asking a question I probably didn't need to know the answer to. "But it's good thing your comrade found you, da?" Russia appeared to be looming over me like a skyscraper from my position on my knees, yet his presence calmed me to an extent; if only because he was a familiar face.
"Y-Yeah." I replied shakily, and with great effort, I found the strength to push myself up. I managed to ignore the protests my muscles gave at the motion, but I still wavered violently before a gloved hand fell on my shoulder and steadied me.
"Such strength from one so small." Russia commented, and I couldn't tell if it was admiration or condescending.
"Um, thanks." I began uncertainly. "B-But what's happened? Where am I? And what are you doing here?" The chills I was shaking with caused a tremble to enter my voice.
Yet Russia provided no explanation at first, but cocked his head in confusion. "That is the funny. I was going to ask you first question." His words did nothing to soothe me.
Crap, it's happened again. It was obvious that I had sleepwalked all the way here, and if only to distract myself, I decided to examine the facts.
"Okay, I'm going to assume I've been gone for quite a few hours." I looked up at the dark sky.
"Da, we have been searching for eight of the hours." Russia began, speaking so causally that one could of thought he was discussing the weather. I, on the other hand, struggled not to be floored by the news.
Gosh, that's even longer than last time!
Russia continued, "It could be longer though. We did not notice you gone until America returned a hour late for rest of the meeting."
I would of face palmed from the lack of notice I received but my limbs were still too shaky to respond, so I merely sighed. "Then what?"
"Then Britain said you might of gone outside to look for your scarf." I briefly fingered the white scarf still tied around my neck. I couldn't help but imagine the worry I had caused him after disappearing like that.
Though I didn't have to as Russia continued, "America ask us to search for you, and most comrades took their planes to look for you. But I know land much better than them, so I walked." Russia shrugged like he had told merely a fine tale.
It's a good thing he walked. It was unlikely anyone would of spotted me in this darkened landscape.
"Wait," A random thought occurred to me. "Can we call someone?"
Russia nodded easily before he produced a large walkie-talkie from one of his coat pockets. My eyes lit up in anticipation as he fiddled with it for a few moments.
"Zzzttt," The static from the radio caused me to flinch, and I felt my heart jolt when I realized why.
It sounds like the buzzing that fills my head before those dreams... Is that a coincidence or-
"ZzWhat do you wantzzz, commie?!" The voice was cascaded in static, yet I felt a large smile grace my lips at the sound of my nation's voice.
"America!" I couldn't help but shout. "It's me, May! I'm-" My words were cut off when a gloved hand unexpectedly covered my mouth.
T-The heck?! I wanted to yell, but I didn't have the strength to do more than send Russia a "what gives?!" look.
Russia ignored me and turned back to the walkie-talkie, which was currently filling the air with America's sputtered words.
"M-MAY?! IS THAT REALLY YOU?! HOW DID YOUZZZzz!"
The words fell into a jumble of static when Russia clicked a button on the device and then said, "Strange girl is not available right now, you will have to wait for us to get back before speaking to her." I could swear Russia's grin had widened.
Not this again. It instantly occurred to me that Russia was taking advantage of this delicate situation and using it to mess with America; similar to him taking a seat next to me at meetings in order to get a rise from America.
"WHAT?!" America's voice screeched from the other end, loud enough to echo. "YOU PUT HER BACK ON RIGHT NOW!" America demanded. "I DON'T HAVE TIME FOR YOUR-"
"Actually, I don't think I will." Russia interjected. "Goodbye, America." Russia removed his hand from me to mess with the device again.
"I SWEAR, IF SHE'S GOT A SCRATHZzzttt!" America's threat faded into static before all became silent and Russia placed the walkie-talkie back into his pocket.
"That was fun, da?" Russia turned to me with a wide grin, but I could only raise an incredulous eyebrow in response.
"You can be a real sick mofo sometimes." I briefly lost control and voiced my thoughts without hesitation. Rapidly, I realized my error, and hastened to say, "Sorry, I didn't mean-"
"Hehe." Russia's brief chuckle caused my mouth to shut in mild surprise. "No, it is fine, small girl. It is entertaining to see Americans act so brash." Russia laughed a bit more, but I just raised an eyebrow.
"O-Okay." I mumbled.
"But I think we should get back as soon as possible or else America might try to kill you."
"That would be funny! But we must head back because your people are weak against cold." Russia agreed, though he surprised me when he added the last part.
Ya think?! I was shivering hard, and a part of me worried I had frostbite. Though my coat, scarf, gloves, and boots might of protected me for a while, I may have been walking outside for roughly nine hours straight, and that wasn't healthy during any season.
Gosh, I feel heavy. The shivering wasn't mainly from the cold, but how my energy was completely depleted. I could barely remain upright, my stomach was growling like I hadn't eaten in weeks, and my brain was becoming sluggish.
"Let's go." I said, eager at the prospect of returning to the heated meeting building. Russia nodded, and I preceded to walk. However, I think even Russia was stunned when I lifted a leg and immediately fell forward.
He barely managed to grab my collar and pull me into a shaky stand before my face hit the ground. "Small girl?" I wondered if my vision was failing or Russia actually had a small frown on his face.
"I-I cant... I can't walk." I spoke softly, and I felt a bit of anger over the admittance. It hurt my pride to acknowledge I couldn't complete such an easy task.
"Then I guess there is only one thing to do." Russia stated, and his grasp became tighter on my collar as I was lifted off the ground. The motion caused my head to spin faster, and for moment it was like the world and I were no longer in touch; like I was suspended on nothing.
"-better?" I caught a bit of Russia's question once my hearing returned, though I was shocked to note I was staring up at the sky.
"How-" I stopped myself as I realized I was enveloped in Russia's arms like a newborn. However, despite the brief feeling of mortification and urge to demand being set down, I heard myself say, "So warm...you're so warm..." My voice drifted like Russia's peering face seemed to be doing in my darkening vision.
"-May?" I allowed my eyes to close, ignored the imploring call, and welcomed darkness.
"...YOU...calm down...GIVE...why should I..." I couldn't decipher the babble, but it was irritating how it was pulling me from sleep's wonderful embrace.
"-put that away! For goodness' sake, America, you could hit, May!" The name was enough to rouse me, and I began opening my eyes into a squint.
"No I won't! I'm just going to hit this commie-" I was staring up at the chin of Russia in confusion before prior memories cautiously oozed into mind.
"Where's...America?" My voice was softer than intended, but I figured they heard me when all went silent.
"It seems small girl is finally awake." Russia titled his head down, and I was slightly unnerved by how close his face (albeit a handsome one) was to me.
"May, are you hurt?" Britain's voice caused me to shift my head and take in the rest of the room. At first, I merely noticed Britain and Canada hanging back. However, I took in a sharp breathe when I noted America was also present and loosely holding a handgun that was aimed in my direction. I relaxed though when I realized Russia's forehead was the target.
"I won't tell you again, commie! Put. Her. Down." America sounded downright frightening as he cocked the gun. The other two nations watched in anticipation for what would happen, and even I held my breathe. Which is why we were all startled when Russia happily supplied, "Okay." Then I felt the hands beneath me disappear and I free fell for a moment.
"May!" The sound of a crash coincided with arms catching me. America wasn't fazed by the way he hit the floor in order to catch me, and he quickly managed to return to a stand.
"What the bloody hell was that for, Russia?!" Britain demanded, and I thought I even saw Canada sending Russia a frown of disapproval.
"I was just doing what America ask." Russia shrugged, and though I couldn't see America's expression from my place in his arms, I could imagine he wasn't pleased. However, he reluctantly dismissed Russia's actions while he peered down at me with eyes full of worry. "May, talk to me! Did he hurt you? I'll mess him up good if he-"
"No, I'm fine, America. I was just tired, and I guess with everything that happened, I sort of passed out." I explained rapidly, placing a hand on America's shoulder to reassure him. "You can put me down now." I tried to speak soothingly, but America frowned at me for a second. He seemed to be examining for injuries with his eyes, and once he finished, he sighed inrelief and gently removed his hands so I could slip onto my feet.
I wobbled a bit, and I saw America's hands hover nearby, but I soon found balance.
"See? I'm perfectly okay-"
"What about that?!" Britain shouted as he pointed to my neck, and I immediately touched the scarf there.
It's wet. I pulled back my hand and was very shocked to find a sticky red substance staining it.
"Get her on the table! We have to treat the injury!"
"M-may?!"
"SHE'SBLEEDING! WHATDOWEDO?!"
But I don't feel any pain anywhere! There's no way it's my blood... Somehow I blocked out the clamor of hysterical countries and inclined my head towards Russia, who was the only one calmly standing on the sidelines.
When he was fighting those Nazis-
"HOLDONMAY! IT'SGOINGTOBEOKAY!" I was torn from my thoughts, scooped into the arms of America, and then rapidly placed onto the meeting table before I had three nations hovering over me.
"Wait, I'm- Urk!" I chocked a bit when Britain started to furiously unwrap the scarf from my neck.
"ISSHEGOINGBEOKAY?! TELLMESHE'SALRIGHT!" America's shouting only served to cause everyone's eardrums to cry in pain.
"Somebody get this fool out of my ear! I'm trying to help her!" Britain shouted over his shoulder before he returned attention to removing the scarf. Canada, being the only one available, attempted to herd America away.
"Lie down so I can check your wound." Britain tried to steer me, but I batted his hands away.
"I'm trying to tell you-"
"ISSHEOKAY?!"
"A-America, c-calm down!"
"I know your in pain, but you must lay back-"
"Aiya!" I swiveled sharply towards the source of the shocked cry, which happened to be China at the doorway.
"What is happening?" France's voice interrupted, standing by China. Both held confused expressions, which made sense considering the rest of us had froze at their appearance. Therefore, I was in a half-sitting position with an arm up to ward off Britain's hands. On the other hand, Canada was holding America back by his Air Force collar while America had an arm stretched out to me.
All in all, we looked ridiculous.
Before anyone could speak though, I announced, "These idiots won't listen to me!" I hissed, my composure snapping.
"But your bleeding-"
"It's not my blood!" I interrupted to prevent the chaos from returning. Thankfully, a hush followed my announcement and a lot of puzzled expressions turned to me. Thus I took the time to push away from Britain and slide off the table. I next fast walked to Russia and looked up at him. "You were hurt in that fight, weren't you?"
Russia stared at me quizzically, but then he looked down at himself, and suddenly noticed the red marring his coat. "It seems your right, small girl. I did not notice until now." Similar to earlier in the meeting, Russia didn't appear too upset by the knowledge he had bloodied his coat.
So that's what that blast of light was. I recalled the flash before Russia took down the last Nazi.
"I don't understand. What fight?" China interrupted, confused as the rest of the group that held question marks over their heads.
"It was-"
Booom! The ground started shaking, and I nearly lost my balance when the first wave rocked us. Immediately, America stumbled over to me before he scanned the room warily.
"Is this another one?!" America seemed to come to the same conclusion as me when the lights in the room began flickering.
However I had no chance to reply before Britain shouted, "It's the portal!" The lights completely dimmed, and the darkness therefore illuminated the blue swirls forming above the table to the point that most of us shielded our eyes.
"What portal?!" China questioned, staring at the swirls warily.
"Is this earthquake in my land?"
"Not this again! My gorgeous hair has been through enough today!"
I wanted to reassure the few nations that hadn't seen a portal yet, but I couldn't prior to blue encroaching on my vision.
Blue blue blur everywhere
You arezzzlatezzzttt
The ocean isn't warm, but cold cold cold
PleasezzZzzhomezzztt
Water is still as ice
The rare tideless ocean has nothing to drag me down so I float
I need youzzzZZZ
The blue, ocean, and tide fades without qualms
I gasped as I returned to the present, and I was grateful to see no one looking at me because they're all enraptured by the colored (no more black and white?) and scratchy image on the portal. We all marveled it's unusual appearance, though my ears caught Britain quietly explaining the portal to China and Russia.
"What now?" I asked myself as the vision solidified.
May's hair was in a ponytail and she wore black tights along with a blue t-shirt. The man standing across wore a similar offit as he stood a second, and then ran up to May to send a fist towards her head. May ducked, grabbed the fist, and then pulled his arm in the same direction it had been going.
She next released his fist and hopped to the side in order to watch the boy stumble forward, but he caught himself at the last second. May did nothing to stop him from turning around. Though she appeared startled when he swiped a leg under her own. She collapsed and caught herself on her knees, but the boy aimed a kick that would hit her stomach. Thus May tossed herself back, and in a fluid motion, caught the leg and pushed it much higher than the boy intended. He slipped, fell back, and May released him.
"Stop!" May turned to the Asian woman standing a few feet away while the boy got himself up. "That's all for you today, May." Her straight black hair swayed a bit as she nodded in May's direction. The boy took the opportunity to walk off, but May stayed behind.
"I've got to go now." May's voice was soft, and in some way, younger.
"I'm aware, but I wish I could go with you." The teacher replied while her dark brown eyes latched onto May's lighter ones as they seemed to have a silent conversation despite the blankness of the Asian woman's face.
However, May ended the silence by shaking her head and stating, "You haven't finished your shift in the dojo. I get it..."
The scene faded to pure blue for a moment, but soon returned to focus.
"-here we are." The blonde haired man turned off the engine and shifted to face his passenger.
May wasn't looking at him, but staring through the glassy window towards the large building outside. The engraved title "University of Cincinnati" was planted firmly on the top of the building.
"May, dear?" The man's lightly accented tone led her to face him, and though her lips were drawn into a blank line, her eyes shown with worry. "You'll do great, for certain." The man placed a hand on the shoulder of her outfit, which was a light blue kimono. Her hair matched the dress as it was straightened and forced into a high bun.
"...And if I don't?" The question was hesitant as May's eyes dropped to the ground.
"Then we'll go get some ice cream and cry together over lost dreams." The man said with a smile, his hazel eyes filled with mirth. May abruptly chuckled in response and batted his shoulder playfully.
"I was being serious!" May gasped between the laughs.
"I am too! Pass or not, I would love some vanilla!" May's laughter mingled with the pale man, whom shook with his own chuckles.
"Just remember, if mom says your spoiling me then it was your idea." May tossed back as she griped the car door handle.
"I'm aware you don't really want to go here." The man's words caused her to freeze. "You're just doing this to make us happy, and yet I know you're going to put your all into this performance. So no matter what those college advisers decide, we're so proud of...our Amaya..." The words faded in and out before it was gone and the scene stilled. The colors all swirled into mush before blue became the dominant tone.
"...I remember that." I spoke up faster because I was more used to the ways of the portal as it faded from sight and the lighting returned. "It was January, 2015. I was completing my application into the dance program at UC. We had to perform before they decided to let you in or not..." I muttered with a shrug, trying to hold back how the flashback had impacted me.
I miss them. I struggled not to voice my feelings.
"Was the dance theme that of Japan?" China asked abruptly, and I started at the unexpected question and the fact I didn't expect China to speak first. Everyone else appeared dazed from what they had just witnessed, yet China focused on me with ease.
"No, it was optional, though it did have to be based on a non-Western country. I just decided to make mines about Japan." I spoke absentmindedly. "I dressed up like a geisha and began with traditional Japanese dance, but I didn't want to make it too basic, so I transitioned from dance to my martial arts during the performance. I think it really stood out to them." I mentioned, not certain why China was stuck on the portal's showing rather than the portal itself.
China's eyebrows drew together in thought as he stated. "You know much about Japan." I held a confused frown on my lips while everyone else slowly came out of their daze and also looked taken aback by China's comments.
His eyes... Once again, I noticed China staring at me it what had to be suspicion, but I couldn't fathom what brought it up this time.
"What's your point, dude?!" America interjected, impatient with China's interrogation of me.
China didn't spare him a glance, continuing to stare intently into my eyes, before he listed, "That was not the first time you wore Japanese clothing, from what Britain told me. You're martial art is from Japan and you know much more about Japanese customs than most Americans." With finality, he concluded, "I believe it is because you carry Japanese blood in you... Right, Amaya?" China's eyes narrowed to silts and I felt stunned by his blunt speech. I thought I even heard someone gasp too, but then America was storming in front of me and staring down at China in real anger. "Don't go comparing her to a Jap! And her name is-"
"If you mean I'm from Japan, then you're wrong." I affirmed, my back straightened in preparation.
"See! I told you!" America raised a pointer finger up triumphantly.
"My mother is the one from Japan, not me." I spoke firmly, trying to remain unaffected as America's hand dropped and he swiveled towards me with his mouth hanging open.
"What?!" It was a mingle of raised voices as everyone stared at me like they'd been floored. Yet I didn't flinch at China's accusing eyes, the fact Russia's aura had gotten creepy, or from the shock on France and Canada. However, the expressions of confusion and betrayal fighting for dominance on America's face did affect me.
"My mother is my aikido trainer after all." I forced myself to shrug, but when I noted China glaring at me, I was struck with a realization. "Wait a minute, is this why you've been giving me those weird looks since I first met you?"
China nodded tightly, "Your skin is darker and your eyes are smaller than most Americans, and that made me suspicious." China sounded smug, though his body was tense.
"And? What did you think?" I wasn't sure what the point of this was. "That I was a Japanese spy or..." I noted China's posture tense further. "Y-You really thought that?!" I chocked out.
"I still do, aru!" China announced, pointing an accusing finger at me.
He can't! Does he seriously-
"Your wrong, China!" I think everyone was a tad surprised when Britain stepped forward and glared at the Asian.
China stepped up to the challenge and maintained a glaring match with Britain. "And how is that?" China challenged, like their was no valid response Britain could make.
However, Britain smirked while stating, "I don't know about her mother, but I'm certain her father would of raised her better than that." Britain glanced at me with certainty. "He is one of my own after all." Once again, everyone was stunned to silence and even China's mouth shut.
"That was him in the car, right?" Britan continued and I nodded.
"Yes... When did you notice?" I questioned, ignoring France's cry of "I'm in love with a British woman?!".
Britain sounded triumphant as he announced. "When you told me your full name, as Bennett is a fairly common surname in my land... Though I forget all about it until France mentioned your like of British dishes." Britain was very pleased to mention the last part. "After that, I started testing your knowledge on my customs just to be certain."
"So that's what you and America have been..." I trailed off when I searched the room for my familair nation, but I didn't spot him. Britain noticed my confusion and glanced around too before coming to the same conclusion.
"Now where did he run off to? I thought he would... May?" Britain called out to me only after I rushed out the doorway and sprinted down the hallway.
I followed the imprints left on the light sheet of snow until I ended up by his plane. Then I walked pass the front and wasn't surprised to find him there. Though it broke my heart a little to see that pitiful expression on his face as he sat on the ground, with his back leaning against the plane as support and his eyes staring off into space.
"..." I didn't say anything while I walked over to his side and purposely left some room between us before I sat down.
He'll talk when he's ready. Thus, we sat like in pure silence for a few minutes with only the occasional gust of wind moving our hairs. In my head, I mentally counted down from a hundred, in Spanish, to pass the time.
Cien...noventa-nueve...noventa y ocho... I felt America glance over to me a few times, but I didn't face him, and he didn't utter a word.
It wasn't until America's gaze lasted a full minute that he released, "It was wrong." I didn't ask for clarification before he went on. "Your Ohio accent; I knew something was off about it." America admitted, sounding as deflated as he looked.
I didn't speak, but I had to rack my brain a few moments to recall what he was talking about.
That first plane ride after I arrived. I recalled the dialogue we held in the air.
"You're from Cincinnati?!"
"Yup, got a problem with that?"
"Naw, dude! I'm just surprised your not from Columbus or something! Your accent sounds weird compared to most people from that area."
I had genuinely believed what was throwing him off was the seventy year gap.
"You're definitely one of mines either way."
I prayed he wasn't rethinking such a statement. Fortunately, I didn't have to ponder on the negative thought as America continued.
"And you always drink tea... You've baked scones a few times too." I thought I saw America look up at the sky from my peripheral vision, as if that would grant him peace. "Britain kept trying to telling me you could be...be related to him." America scoffed a bit, despite how he was now aware it was true.
"And I never asked why you had that weird dress or why said you wanted sushi that one time or why your passport said Amaya Kuzco Bennet or- I was so stupid!" America finally shouted, tossing snow up as he slammed his fists on the ground. Then he brought his knees up and winded his arms tightly around them before burying his face into his arms.
Oh, America. For once, I didn't want to chide him on his childish actions. I simply wanted to give him the comfort any disillusioned child needed.
So I did.
"You're not the first person to refuse to see what's right in front of you." I saw America stiffen from the corner of my eye. "And you won't be the last person to be in denial, but lucky you, I think I'm able to see more clearly." I kept my voice gentle and low.
"The way I see it, every person has three parts to them. Regardless of if your a first-generation American like me." I paused, to let the emphasis sink in, but then carried on. "There's the heart, mind, and body." I took a deep breathe, and then dove in.
"I'd say I've more Japan in body than anything. I do have dark hair and brown eyes." America hid back in his arms, but I had to go on. "I appear pretty quiet to most people, but it's just 'cause I'm thoughtful." I frowned as I continued. "I've had people tell me they don't like how I'm pretty calm most days because they can't tell what my true feelings are unless I say it." I went on before bad memories reached me.
"I'd say I'm fairly respectful of other cultures and customs, but that's because I'm really afraid I'll offend someone if I'm not." It felt star he saying this without thinking, yet I pushed on. "And I like a lot of Japanese stuff like their food, kawaii things, and anime."
America was practically submerged in himself until I mentioned, "But I could say the same about British things. Though when it comes to Britain, we're talking more about the way I think than my heart's desires." America shifted and I wondered if he was looking up in curiosity again.
"I feel a lot more than I let on, and I try to keep the bad things I want to say up in my head, but sometimes I can't help myself." I forced the words out, feeling an unwillingness to express myself even now. "Britain understands what it's like to know what's right up here," I tapped my cranium. "But to be unable to control all that anger."
"It's not always other people's fault, but I think too much about myself sometimes... I'm too prideful, and sometimes I keep stewing over what people say in my head until I can't help but get mad." I admitted with a sigh. "I guess it's just 'cause we're so passionate and caring that it's hard to force ourselves to think before acting sometime. Heck, it took years of aikido and navy training to tame me." It was hurting my pride right now to admit I wasn't always perfectly calm, so I shifted to the next topic.
"Besides that, I do like teas almost as much as I love coffee, and who doesn't love those clever twists in detective novels?" I smiled a bit. "But you know what?"
Finally I turned my head to face America, and his blue eyes met my own. "When it comes to love, I think we're talking more about the heart."
I held a wide smile and my eyes crinkled as I began, "I love comics, films, coffee, fast food, and boy I could go for a burger right now." I laughed a little at myself and saw America's eyes expand in understanding.
"And I just love to fly." I cooed happily. "Now that I'm in college, I plan to travel the whole world, see new things, and go on a one heck of an adventure!" I cheered, and America lifted his head as his grip on his legs loosened. "But to do those things, I have to remain strong and optimistic no matter what..." I glanced off to the side with misty eyes. "I love the fast paced world of cities, what could be better? But above even traveling, I want to help people." I turned my head back to face America.
"Whether with the navy or when I become a performer, I want to make people happy like I'm happy." I felt my voice getting chocked up. "I guess I want to be a hero like you... So," America released his legs and stared intently at me. "I'm not perfect and maybe I should of told you sooner, but does it really matter?" I felt my voice crack, and for once, I found that I was the one looking to America for approval.
"I...dude..." America began, glanced downwards, and then his head shot back up before he was throwing himself forward faster than I could blink. His arms wrapped around me tightly enough to hurt as he pulled me over to him. Yet I didn't fight it, merely closed my eyes in contentment at his version of "it's okay".
Thus the world was quiet, a beat passed, and then.
"Still mines?"
I rested my head on his chest and there was no hesitation.
"Always."
"Eternity: a moment standing still for ever." ~James Montgomery
Woah, that took forever to edit, but I hoped you liked it! Also, props to the few people that figured out at least half of May's ethnicity before now!
Next time, expect a lot more FACE family!
Byes!