Hello, yes you aren't dreaming I have actually updated this story. I had to rewrite the end as my computer froze and I lost the last part. I hope you like it anyway and please leave a review :)

Arthur sighed a breath of relief as relaxation and comfort washed over his body. The aches and pains of his muscles ebbed away like the sea to the tide. This felt so much better than the hot baths he would occasionally take back home in his bathtub. It had a completely different feeling. The scent of mineral water, filled with natural salts and extracts that were good for the body. Helping sweat out toxins etc and improve his mental health, I mean it was all-natural, nothing artificial in the waters altogether.

Sadly his nation did not have such natural beauties, however other nations like the Nordics and his boyfriend did. They did not know how lucky they were to have such a natural blessing as part of their culture. But coming all this way to visit his boyfriend and be able to indulge in his outdoor baths was truly a wonderful experience. After a long day, Kiku had suggested he once again took leisure in his hotsprings since he hadn't done so for a long time. Until now his visits had been short and brief, usually a business trip thanks to his boss. Now he finally had a break to have a leisure trip, to do what he wanted.

He could sleep in and get up when he wanted, having no alarms to set for he had nowhere to be. He could sleep beside his boyfriend and cuddle, he could stay up late for hours as he had no work to attend. They had all of christmas and new years to spend with each other, plans to make and moments to share without interruption. Though he had expected it at some point, America hadn't dropped by once to bother them which was a relief. To have America third wheel would be the most awkward thing in the world.

However, though he bathed alone when at home, when in the presence of his partner, leaving him alone seemed so rude. Japan had agreed to join him once England had persuaded him enough, however gave him his space by sitting elsewhere. But still sat close enough that they could communicate with one another, knowing their presence was still close. Having their own personal space instead of crowding one another. But being able to bond together was what was important, not wasting any moments.

England rested his head against a giant stone, the cool of the night air allowing him to not become too overheated. The warmth of the bath keeping him warm so he would not become sick from the cool air either. The perfect balance of temperature, not allowing him to succumb to the weather. It was like a dream, far away from home in a different world, a different culture, but somehow still familiar. As odd as that seemed to be to explain.

The silence was soon broken by the familiar voice of his beloved "Arthur-san, are you alright? You have been quiet for some time" Kiku's voice called out in concern. Worried that he may have succumbed to the hot temperature of the baths, everyone had their tolerances after all. He would not make fun of him should he feel overwhelmed. If he so wished he could have collected a cold drink to help lower his temperature while in the baths. It was common to drink cold milk after a bath to help refresh yourself.

"Yes, I'm quite well love. This is a very pleasant feeling" Arthur reassured him. He couldn't remember the last time he felt so completely relaxed. Getting away from home for Christmas really had been a good plan, disconnecting from his old life to go somewhere new for a while. Being at home it was easy for people to find him, if he had stayed home he would have been pestered non-stop. After going away his boss promised to allow him privacy and prevent people from disturbing him during his time off, which he appreciated.

Kiku sighed in relief, he could hear the happiness in his lover's voice. To know he was truly enjoying this festive trip made him happier than he could describe. To have Arthur all to himself for the entire month, including new years. He knew it was selfish but he was glad to have this time with him. That was when he heard it, a soft mumble at first but soon he could clearly hear the lyrics. England was singing something, a very gentle hum. But it was indeed a song, a Christmas carol from what he could assume. But he enjoyed hearing such a pleasant tune given the season.

"Ding dong, merrily on high, in heav'n bells are ringing. Ding dong, verily the sky. Is riv'n with angels singing" England sang in a low gentle tone. It was a song he had known since he was a child. His people had been singing it for centuries, ingrained into the culture of his nation which he took pride in. When he was a boy, he used to wrap up in the warmth of his cloak and sing them to himself. Young children during the Victorian years used to sing carols for money in hopes of earning coins to be able to buy food to eat.

It brought warmth to his soul that filled him with nostalgia, days of bygone years from many centuries ago. Back when his nation was still new and blossoming into the person he was now. Back when his brother Alistair was older than him and his people spoke fluent Gaelic. Though people tended to remember his mistakes more than not, he had influenced many nations with his culture that was still celebrated several years later. He wasn't the failure that America and France tended to perceive him as.

"You have a very soothing voice Arthur-san" Kiku interrupted. He never knew England was so capable of singing, I mean he had overheard other nations often insulting him and bringing to light his flaws and failures. But this was the first time he had seen one of his talents in person. He had thought he was mistaken at first but the voice did indeed belong to England. It was so soft, soothing and sweet, angelic even.

Arthur blushed, he had completely forgotten he wasn't alone. Hell, not even France had heard him sing aloud. At least not since he was a child, he hid it out of fear of being teased. I mean, it was the reason why his nation had so many talented and successful musicians. He was the representation of his people after all. His voice suddenly seemed lost to him and nerves started to kick in. His heart started to flutter as embarrassment and fear lingered at the back of his mind. Wondering if he should try and forget about it and move the conversation along.

Kiku sensed his embarrassment, having caught him in a private moment that he had not meant to share with him. This must have been one of those singing in the shower moments, but instead they were in a bath together. "Gomen, I didn't mean to embarrass you. Your voice was very comforting to hear. Please do not stop on my account" he apologized. He was enjoying listening to England's voice.

Arthur softened when he was a boy Scotland used to sing to him in Gaelic. Thus part of him still remembered the days of the old language. Due to his own pride, power and negative influence from rulers from that time. The language was overruled and died out, very few in the modern era speaking the language. Singing had become a way to comfort himself as a boy when other nations would bully him. When storms came and frightened him when bad times came and things seemed hopeless. He would sing to himself in hopes of making things better and distracting himself from the negative situation "No… its.. sorry love. I… I don't sing in front of others, I don't think I've ever felt so comfortable around someone as to allow myself to share it" He confessed. He just allowed people to think he was bad at singing, it was easier to deal with false rumours than try to defend himself and be teased further.

Kiku nodded, he knew what it was like to feel nervous around others. To feel fear of sharing something so personal in case you were judged for it. But he was glad to have another secret to share with Arthur. He hoped he would sing for him more often in the future. "Please continue. I want to hear more" he asked hopefully. It was a nice ambience while watching the stars. Maybe next time he could purchase a speaker and listen to music while in the hotsprings together, on low volume of course.

England hesitated, if this was America he would have tried to have a competition and outdo him. He always had to be the centre of attention and win at everything which often got annoying. But Kiku simply wanted to hear him sing out of comfort and pleasure. Wanting to savour this moment, understanding it's precious wealth. "Ok" he chuckled nervously, newfound bravery filling him.


Arthur sipped the sake quietly, enjoying the taste of it on his tongue. Though Kiku was partial to the stronger dry flavour, he preferred the sweeter sake. Though most knew him for being a drunken fool, he was, in fact, capable of controlling himself. The reason he often got so wasted was because of the strength of the liquor and how much he drank. But for safety's sake in case he embarrassed himself, he was holding himself back. His cheeks were hot and warm, a mixture of the heat of the bath and the alcohol mixing in his body. He had a feeling from the cloudy sky and the temperature, he had a feeling it would snow again. But thankfully the bath would keep him from being affected.

He felt so peaceful, a calmness in his soul that he rarely felt due to the many stresses in his life. Most people assumed he was simply a moody and stubborn man, never really considering his internal feelings or what was causing him to act that way. The only people who truly knew his mental and emotional state were France and Scotland, having known him since he was a boy. They were the few people who knew him better than anyone. He breathed out slowly, watching a puff of condensation escaping his lips like fine smoke. A playful smile escaping his lips as he did so. Imagining dragons and other fairy tales from his youth. He had always had such a wild and childlike imagination, even before he developed the ability to see mythical creatures.

"Arthur-san. Would you care for some tea and cake later this evening? I bought some of that shortcake you enjoyed. I thought you may enjoy some after-dinner" Kiku offered. Another common interest they shared was that they both had a sweet tooth. However their love of sweets was not as excessive as America's was. But he did enjoy indulging himself every now and again, mostly when his craving for cake was severe and he couldn't stop thinking about it.

Arthur smiled, he was truly spoiled by his lover. He never had to explain, he was perceptive like that. Though he was quiet and reserved, Japan was truly more perceptive and intelligent than he appeared to be. He was a truly talented baker, his sweets making him feel like a small boy again "That would be lovely pet". Though his infamously bad cooking was mocked by the other nations, he was blessed to have a lover who could indeed cook. A way to a man's heart was his stomach after all.

Kiku felt a warmth spread through him, until meeting Arthur he had never truly understood love. Though having read his fair share of romance novels and anime, he had never really experienced it for himself. Not until he met Arthur did he feel such a strong passion for someone. He never had to pretend or put on airs with Arthur, he could always be himself and trust him. Betraying his bosses suggestion and becoming his friend was something he did not regret all these years later. "A.. Arthur-san… I… I feel so relaxed with you… I believe the word is… content" he mumbled shyly. Though he was known for being stubborn, hot-blooded, cynical and often daydreaming. Not many knew of the soft gentle nature of England, his maternal nature, his love of music and intelligence. Over time he had seen many sides of England he rarely showed others.

Arthur sighed fondly "Me too love, I've never been so happy before" he confessed. Though he had many lovers, crushes and affairs. Kiku was the first person he truly felt so comfortable with. Knowing the latter would treasure him, never risking to lose him. They had a loyalty and trust in each other that could not be put into words, it was a silent connection that made their bond stronger.

Kiku swallowed, he didn't know when he would get this chance again. He shifted closer to Arthur, closing the space between them. Reaching out his hand around the side to clasp his around England's beneath the water. His gaze fixed on the starry sky above, watching the twinkling stars and glowing moon above them. The moon truly looked lovely this night, beaming its silver light down on them. A romantic setting that only they could share together.


Kiku sat comfortably at the Kotatsu table, his hands cupped around his tea. His cheeks still red from the bath, truly it was such a relaxing feeling. His mind now clear and comfortable. A slice of cake sat beside his tea with a fork. He had considered cooking dinner at home but then eating out seemed like the better alternative given they had plans to be out late again tonight. Restaurants were a convenience in that sense. Though he did worry that he may have to deal with England's drunken nature, given how the other nations spoke of it negatively.

"Kiku, I hope you don't mind but I bought something that I believe you would appreciate" Arthur confessed bashfully. It was a little token from home he believed he would enjoy. Every year he placed one outside of his door in case of visitors at Christmas. However, France tended to abuse the tradition just a little. Using the bloody thing to steal kisses from every nation he could get his hands on. He was abusing a sacred festive tradition that was used for romance and bringing couples together.

"Not at all Arthur-san, your Christmas culture is rather fascinating" Kiku argued sternly. He was enjoying learning about everything that Arthur celebrated this time of year. Next year he hoped to visit England's nation when it came to Christmas. Thus he could experience them for himself. Though he had seen plenty in postcards and done some research for himself, he would rather see it in person so that he could understand it better. It would allow them to grow closer as allies and lovers.

Arthur felt a wave of pride hit him upon hearing these words. He felt like he could tell Kiku anything, knowing his lover would never make fun of him. He then rummaged in his pocket carefully, taking out a package. He had found it back home before leaving on his trip, it was a very romantic festive gesture used by many other nations. But he had never really seen Kiku use it, so he had tried his luck.

Kiku saw Arthur bring out a small plant with white berries, it looked very pretty. Especially with the small decoration with red ribbon adorning it. It was a bunch of arranged leaves and looked almost like a bouquet. "It's called mistletoe, my country amongst others have been using it for centuries. I believe you may appreciate the gesture" he explained with a light dusting of a blush on his cheeks. He knew how bold a gesture this was despite them having known each other for so long now.

Kiku saw the blush on his lover's cheeks which enticed his curiosity. He reflected on what he recalled about the tradition, it was some time since he had researched it. Plus he didn't mind teasing his lover to amuse himself for a short time. "Hai, I believe it is supposed to be a symbol of romance" he stated bluntly. That was when Arthur's face darkened, like a small child being caught stealing sweets before dinner. How adorable he looked when he was like this.

"Y… Yes… I hope you don't find it improper" Arthur babbled wondering if he was making a fool of himself. He knew the rumours other nations spread about him being a pervert of all things. He wasn't the only nation to have an indecent past and he was by far not the worst, but for some reason he got the worst end of the torment.

Kiku smiled, moving closer to his lover. A fond yet playful twinkle in his eyes, how could such an innocent gesture be seen as rude? "Arigato Arthur-san" he replied gratefully. He slowly leaned across to take the plant from Arthur's grasp, while lightly placing a chaste kiss on his cheek. "I shall place this in the doorway, I do hope you tell me more traditions while you are here" he replied. Getting to his feet leaving a flustered England alone.


"Feasegar math Arthur, Nollaig Chridheil" Alistair replied coolly but his tone had kindness to it. He had never been the overly affectionate type but he loved his little brother all the same. He had a rough exterior with a gentle nature beneath, the heart of a lion, strong and proud but also capable of being as kind and placid as the Unicorn which symbolized his nation. He was feared, respected and yet adored by so many.

England shifted, all these centuries later and one of the few nations to scare him was his own brother. But then again he wasn't the only one so he didn't feel alone in that scenario. Even France one of his longtime allies was still scared of him. "Good evening Alistair, merry Christmas to you too" he babbled nervously. But they needed to speak to each other, I mean they were capable of acting civil to one another after all. All siblings had tension and argued it wasn't uncommon.

"A'm awfu surprised tae hear ye's of a people callin me aroun' this time" Allistair replied casually. Usually his brother kept to himself and sent him a card but generally kept to himself. He supposed the teasing he and their brothers taunted him with growing up hadn't helped matters. England had always been protective of himself, decades of loss, heartbreak and betrayal had hardened his heart and caused him to have severe trust issues towards others.

England shifted, growing up his brothers hadn't exactly been easy to deal with. Alistair was protective and stern but would tease him an awful lot and was very scary. Many times he left him on his own while protecting his own nation. Leaving Arthur alone a lot of the time yearning for company. Which is how he became so self-reliant. But his brothers did love him in their own way, their history as nations didn't help matters. But they were still family regardless of matters. That fact still reigned true, you couldn't choose your family. "Indeed, it has been a long time since we have been in contact. I apologize for that".

"Sae, wit are ye wantin?" Scotland asked curiously. Part of him sensed that Arthur was hiding something from him and his gut told him it wasn't good. But he knew if he pried too much Arthur would cut him out. He hated people being nosy and cutting through his barriers. But he was patient and would allow his brother to tell him on his own, unless he felt the need to get involved and do some spying to find out more.

Arthur swallowed, he hadn't really told his brother about his relationship with Japan. He knew they were allies but not of their romantic feelings for each other nor their newly found courtship. He just hadn't felt brave enough to tell him. "I… I've fallen in love" he mumbled nervously. There was a long silence on the end of the phone, Arthur could feel his stomach knotting. His nerves nipping away at him, praying he didn't puke or make an arse of himself. This was a serious moment for him.

Finally there came a long sigh from Scotland's end of the phone, he could already hear the tone change from casual to serious. Alistair had put on his big brother shoes. "A see, ye gane tae tell me who he is?" he asked. He wanted to know if this person loved Arthur, if he truly cared about him and wouldn't hurt him like everyone else had. He wanted his brother to be happy, though people didn't think it possible he did have his brothers best interests at heart.

Arthur took a deep sigh, it was now or never or Alistair would only pry. "His name is Kiku. Kiku Honda, the incarnation of the nation of Japan. He's been my ally for many decades now, so it was only natural that romance should blossom over time" he confessed. He knew his brother would expect him to have ended up in a relationship with France or America, but that was not the case. France had been a brief lover of his but over time they drifted apart. France's snobby and often teasing nature towards him had become tiring. In terms of America, he had raised the boy as if he were his own son, he had watched him grow into a young man. Such feelings of love towards him were impossible, he would forever see him as his brother. The baby boy he raised into a man.

Alistair was surprised, he never expected England to be in relations with such a strong nation. But also such a calm and seemingly passive young man. But he could sense in his brother's tone that he was genuinely happy. "Ye haenna bloody changed laddie" he chuckled under his breath. Still the same stubborn boy he always had been. But at least now he had someone who could freeze the ice around his broken heart and help him heal his past scars, making him a better man.

England huffed, he felt like his brother was teasing him right now. He hadn't called him to argue, he simply wanted to reveal his relationship with Kiku and hope his brother would support him. I mean he was the first person he was telling about this. Not even America knew, none of his allies new, Japan hadn't even told China. They were keeping it private until they felt like sharing their relationship with other people publicly. It was their decision after all.

"A'm aware a wisnae the best big brother tae ye. Despite ye bein ma wee brither. But I do luv ye ken?" Alistair replied in a gentle tone. He had never really been the best at showing his affection. But he had been truly happy the day his brother had been born, though he was never the easiest to deal with, watching him grow and succeed as a nation was something he was truly proud of. Even if his brother could be a pain in the ass sometimes.

England softened "Alistair…" he mumbled. It was not often he and his brother had a heart to heart like this. Both showing their vulnerable sides to one another. His brother hiding the gentle heart within himself. They bickered and argued the same as any sibling did, but they had a true respect for one another as nations. Despite their differences and pasts, there was a strong platonic love that they felt for one another.

"A'm a leave ye be. But ye better visit sae I can meet him" Alistair warned before hanging up. He was probably interrupting their date, I mean it was Christmas and they were a couple, such things were expected. As his brother hung up, Arthur felt a swell of pride and love fill his heart. His brother had accepted their relationship and now wanted to meet him. That was all he could have ever asked of him. Knowing he supported him.

Kiku soon entered the room having put up the mistletoe, seeing the look of love on his lovers face warmed his heart. But he wondered whom he had been speaking to. "Arthur-san?" he asked curiously. He had not felt it polite to speak up and interrupt their conversation, so he had waited patiently from a distance until his conversation with said person was over. He wondered who it could have been to make Arthur so serious yet so gentle.

Arthur gazed up at Kiku fondly "My older brother called, he wants to know when we can both visit him after new years" he explained. He didn't doubt that Alistair would love him, he had a soft spot for cute things. Given how much he adored Kiku, his brothers would smother him with love. They had been waiting for a long time for when he would finally find someone.

Kiku blushed, panic hitting him like a brick wall. Brother? Which one, he heard from France that England had 3 of them. Was it Ireland? Wales? Scotland, god he didn't know. This was quite a bomb to throw on him of all times. God he would have so much to plan. He had heard America and France talking about them before, saying how scary they could be. He couldn't help but worry about what kind of people they were.

"Don't worry love, despite the scary stories of my older brother. Alistair is a lot softer than he looks at times" he reassured him. Though he would never openly admit it, he did look up to his big brother. His brother had been the one to teach him how to hunt, sung to him in Gaelic when he was scared by thunderstorms or when he was upset. He had been there for him during a lot of his development stages as a nation, though they were semi rivals now, they still had a strong bond.

Kiku softened, he could see the fondness England had for his brother in his eyes. He knew he could trust England for he would never lie to him. But part of him was still afraid to meet his potential brother in law. I mean this was unknown territory and he couldn't help but be a little anxious about it.


Kiku sat in silence as he sipped his drink in silence while trying not to laugh in amusement. Though he usually avoided such places on account of bad experiences with America, he had chosen to bring Arthur to a Kareoke bar. Usually whenever he visited, America would drag him to a Kareoke bar, playing on a loop many action anime openings despite not being able to sing any of them. Then playing annoying music on a loop for him to painfully endure at his expense.

However, compared to his louder mouthed neighbour and younger brother, England was more respectful and took into consideration of his feelings. Trying to find music they could both enjoy together as partners. Of course, England chose the classics, ones that everyone would know which made Kiku feel relieved. Knowing he would not mess up or be left out.

Mariah Carey's all I want for Christmas is you, a lot of Michael Buble songs, and the classic band-aid songs. Among many others that even other nations could remember. Mistakes were expected, they stumbled every now and again and messed up the lyrics, but that was all a part of the fun. England did occasionally curse and get panicked when he messed up but would laugh about it afterwards. But he didn't get mad over it, he was enjoying himself.

The two took pictures of one another while performing among other scenarios. Even taking some videos for memories to look back upon later on. But all in good nature, not to blackmail one another like a bully. But more amusing memories that they could remember fondly in years to come.

Kiku was impressed, it seemed England had many hidden talents that he and probably other nations were not aware of. One of them just happened to be singing, but why would he hide such a thing from other people? He didn't understand. The likes of him would do so well on a talent show or even as a performer.

"Arthur-san, you have a pretty good voice" he praised in awe. He was unaware that among his many hobbies that England enjoyed singing. If he had known, he would have asked him out to do this before. He wondered why he would keep such a thing such a tightly held secret. It was nowhere near embarrassing as many of his or anyone else's hobbies. It was something he should have been very proud of.

Arthur felt his cheeks heat upon hearing these words, not often did he get compliments on the topic. Mostly because it was something he kept very privately. He averted his gaze nervously from Kiku, gripping the mic for comfort. "I… uh... have a good history with music in my nation. But… admittedly rock is a personal favourite" he mumbled bashfully.

Kiku's eyes lit up with wonder upon hearing this, recalling a TV series about a panda who sang rock music. Though he was a lover of K-pop and J-pop himself he was eager to hear England attempt rock music. Would he become all strange and suddenly have a different appearance too? However he was happy to try some English rock music in hopes of growing closer to his lover and learn more about his interests.

Arthur perked up, his green eyes shining brightly with hope. He looked like a small child that had just been given a cookie. He looked painfully cute in Kiku's eyes which made his heart swell with love. As long as he was ok with it, he didn't see the harm.

He proceeded to look up a couple of his personal favourites in the genre, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The rolling stones, The who, just a few basics. He didn't want to scare Kiku after all, he never really listened to music like this around him. He then turned to Kiku with a playful smirk "Ok love, time for some fun".

Kiku perked up, Arthur looked so cool right now. He could feel a shiver of arousal running down his back and making him stomach tingle. He could see it in his eyes, the punk persona from his youth that France was so scared of. But England looked so cool right now he couldn't help but want to take pictures. So he could never forget.

The Gaelic from what I know means, good evening and Merry Christmas. I apologize for many mistakes made, though I am half Scottish nobody in my family speaks it. Due to my maternal family being east coast.