This one has some violence in it
It seemed that the short break had been necessary. The previous tension within the room having backed off somewhat.
During said reliever, most nations had gotten something to eat from the cafeteria located inside the building.
"I still can't get over you loosing a war to a bunch of birds!" America's obnoxious laugh rang throughout the meeting room.
"Yeah well you saw how big they were! They're fucking terrifying!" Australia tried to defend himself. A few other nations had been listening in and couldn't help but laugh at the memory they had seen.
Once everyone had returned from the break, it appeared that Japan and China had not spoken a word to one another. Japan had even changed seats, now situated on the other side of Italy. It wasn't a big change but at least the two weren't glaring at the other now.
"Hurry up West and press play!" Prussia exclaimed loudly and Germany sighed in exasperation, albeit, he picked up the sleek, black remote and pressed play.
The room began to settle as the screen darkened.
A large and luxurious room was shown. Human's dressed in exquisite outfits argued amongst themselves.
"Oh that's the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles." France exclaimed in recognition.
"Is it your memory then?" Finland inquired and the Frenchman shook his head.
"I don't think so." He explained.
Suddenly a commotion had heads raised, and the doors were thrown open. In came Prussia, dressed in his Teutonic knight outfit, a smug expression on his face. He was closely followed by France, the blonde wearing a frown.
"I told you I'd win!" Prussia mocked the other. France could only grumble.
"Good, you're finally here. Take a seat." One of the male's stated with an exasperated expression on his face.
The two personifications moved to take a seat.
"Listen up, seeing as the Franco-Prussian War has come to a conclusion, the independent German states have unified together to become The German Empire." One of the German princes announced. France frowned whilst Prussia smirked.
"Well it's to be expected, most of the German states have been working towards this since Napoleon was around and kicking." The albino sounded smug as he turned in the blonde's direction.
"Oh shut up." The Frenchman huffed.
"Both of you; please." A prince snapped and both personifications turned back to the front of the room.
"Otto von Bismarck, the Prime Minister of Prussia has agreed to become the Chancellor of the Empire." The male continued quickly.
"Finally, I would like you all to meet the personification of the unified German states; The German Empire." The dark haired male with his luxurious clothes moved to reveal a young boy.
Both Prussia and France's eyes widened as the young nation approached them. He appeared to be around the age of seven or eight. Blonde hair that fell over light blue eyes.
"Hallo, I am The German Empire. It's nice to meet you." The child held out his hand in greeting.
"Woah wait up! Germany is that you!" America exclaimed and more then one personification's eyes widened in surprise.
"Yeah..." Germany muttered awkwardly.
"When was this?" Japan inquired politely.
"1871." The blonde answered.
"Hold on, are you only 150 years old?" Canada muttered after working out the math. For once, the Canadian was heard. America spluttered at that fact.
"Holy shit dude! You're so young!" The American yelled loudly.
Prussia laughed at the surprise on the other personification's face. Germany couldn't contain a blush, feeling embarrassed. Italy laughed softly at his friend.
"Do you remember we met not too long after this?" The Italian asked quietly and the blonde nodded.
"I do actually, it was only a couple of months later." Germany replied back.
"Continue! Stop dragging this shit out!" South Italy cursed and most rolled their eyes.
The memory on screen began to play again as the German pressed play.
Prussia turned to look at France, both sharing a look of horror. The albino was quick to snap out of it though, throwing on an uneasy grin.
"Hallo little Empire, I am Prussia and you're my little brother!" He exclaimed loudly and the child jumped slightly.
They both turned to France waiting for him to introduce himself. The Frenchman hadn't moved, face still frozen in shock and horror. Prussia noticing and glaring at the other.
"It's obviously not him, snap out of it." The albino growled and elbowed his friend hard in the side. That seemed to snap the blonde out of it.
"S-sorry. I'm France." He muttered shakily. Unable to meet the newest personification's eyes.
"Let's get out of here." Prussia stated and stood up. After being dismissed by his higher ups, all three personifications exited the room. Once outside of Versailles, France let out a deep sigh and collapsed onto a nearby bench.
Prussia moved to sit beside his longtime friend. The German Empire was confused, it seemed something was bothering the two older nation's.
"Is something the matter?" He inquired, watching the two curiously.
"It's nothing for you to worry about." Prussia explained quickly, waving him off. Germany frowned.
"I've actually been needing to talk to you. Now that the war between us is over get your troops out of Rome. I only just beat that stupid Austrian and got Italy control of Venice again." The albino turned to face France, a sharp expression on his pale face.
"Ah... of course, I'll remove my troops. I feel bad for invading my mon frères, however I could not say no to Napoleon." The blonde was wistful.
"Good, I promised North when I helped him get Venice back that I'd help him with Rome too. Of course South was too proud to ask himself." Prussia sighed in relief.
"Anyway, I've gotta go teach my little bro how to run a country! Come on Germany!" The personification continued on, grabbing the newly formed nation's small hand and pulling him along with a laugh. Germany gasped in surprise before hurrying to keep up.
The memory sped up to bypass both personifications heading back to the newly unified Germany. It skipped over Prussia giving the other a tour of his land and teaching him things a nation should know; as well as fighting skills.
The nation's watched on in silence. Prussia taught the young Germany how to wield a large sword; too big for the child to hold properly. A few laughed as he stumbled.
"Can I ask you something? Why are you so old? Normally when nations come into existence they appear the age of a toddler." England inquired, the question having been playing on his mind the whole memory. A few others realised this and gaped at the German.
"That's true. I've been wondering myself." Estonia added to the conversation.
When looks were sent their ways, both Germany and Prussia shrugged; neither knowing the true reason behind it.
"Interesting." Russia hummed in curiosity.
When the chatter died down, Germany pressed play once more.
It had been a couple of months time when the memory slowed to a stop. The German Empire hunched over a large book whilst Prussia sat beside him.
"For the last time, I know how to read perfectly fine. I don't need your help." The blonde huffed at his brother's assistance.
"You're no fun, all you do is read and write. Why not come and spar me. Fighting is an essential skill." Prussia pouted.
"I'm reading about the history of my nation, and other's. I'd like to be well informed seeing how young I am." Germany stated with a deadpan expression before moving back to his book.
"You know, that's intelligent thinking. I can't believe I never realised how smart you were as a child." Hungary complimented and Germany blushed. More then one personification agreeing with her statement.
Prussia had been trying to think of an awesome retort before a male appeared in the doorway of the office. He knocked lightly to announce himself. Both personifications looking up at the sound.
"Hallo?" The albino questioned, eyebrows furrowed in confusion.
"I've been sent to inform you by Sir Bismarck that Italy has unified." At that Prussia jumped out of his seat in glee.
"Hahaha! I knew those two could do it, of course the awesome me had to lend a hand but anything to fight Austria!" The albino cackled and Germany sighed. He had been filled in of the recent history between his brother and Austria.
"You know what, let's pay some people a visit. I still have to introduce you too!" Prussia exclaimed and once again pulled The German Empire up and along with him.
"My book!" Germany exclaimed as he was pulled out of the room.
The nations watching laughed once more as it continued.
A small time skip occurred before slowing to reveal the brother's standing outside of Austria's home.
"Hallo! Come let the awesome me in!" Prussia knocked loudly. A grumbling could be heard from inside before the door was thrown open.
"What!? Are you here to gloat because I'm not in the mood." The Austrian spat out angrily. Dark hair a mess and deep shadows underneath his eyes. Skin pale and a few bandages covered healing wounds.
"Of course I'm here to gloat, otherwise I would've come sooner; however, it's not the only reason I came. This is The German Empire, he came about a couple of months ago when the German states unified." Prussia laughed before pushing the blonde towards the other.
Austria's reaction was similar to France's. Shocked beyond belief as he stared at the child.
"A-ah... I am Austria... It's nice to meet you." He stuttered, only just managing to get that much out. Prussia's comment completely ignored.
"It's nice to meet you." Germany bowed his head. Twice now when meeting nation's they seemed to freak out over him; was it his appearance or something?
"Come in." The Austrian invited them in before quickly disappearing into the large house. Both Prussia and Germany making their way into the pristine lounge room.
"It's very clean." The child observed.
"That's because Hungary does all the cleaning." The albino cackled at his own joke whilst the blonde was confused.
"I do not you idiot." A female appeared with light brown hair and soft green eyes. A scowl on her face. She was carrying a tray of tea and cups.
"It's nice to see you again. I can't believe you're still here." Prussia shook his head in bewilderment.
"I actually enjoy being here for your information. Now did you come just to poke fun at Austria? We've all heard the news." The Hungarian explained, eyebrows furrowed in suspicion.
"Yes- I mean no," he stopped himself, "this is The German Empire. He came about when the German states unified back in January." This drew Hungary's attention to the child she'd missed before.
A sharp intake of breath and the horrified expression was once again, present. Germany frowned; make that three.
Prussia noticed her expression and scowled, the action breaking her from her stupor.
"Sorry, I'm Hungary, it's nice to meet you. I had been wondering when Prussia was going to let us meet you." She was quick to throw a sweet smile on her face.
"It's nice to meet you too." The blonde responded quietly.
Hungary smiled sweetly at the child as she set the tray down, offering tea to their guests.
"Okay, this has been bugging me for a while now, but what's up? Y'all are acting like he has the plague or something." America stated after seeing Hungary's reaction to Germany.
Those who were like America, unaware, were curious too. A sad smile found it's way on Italy's face. France looked melancholic. Austria sighed deeply.
"He looks like someone." Prussia was the one to answer, tone nothing like they'd heard before.
"Seeing as we're watching out memories, you'll probably be able to see for yourselves sooner or later." Hungary explained and with that the room fell silent again.
Germany pressed play, however he too was confused about it. Prussia had informed him to an extent, albeit he had never seen this nation before.
The memory skipped forward over Prussia and The German Empire's visit to Austria and Hungary. Fast forwarding the duo's travels until they arrived in the grand city of Rome.
"Wow." Germany was awestruck at the architecture and history.
"Come on." Prussia pulled him along, a smirk on his pale face. "You can admire the city later." He laughed as the child grew flustered. He let go of the smaller's wrist when they arrived in front of a large house. It resembled the rest of the city's exquisite architecture.
"Hallo! Come let me in!" Prussia exclaimed as he bashed on the sturdy wooden door.
A faint noise sounded from inside before the door was slowly pulled open.
"Ahhh Prussia!" North Italy cried out happily, quickly pulling the taller male into a hug.
"Thank you so much! Grazie!"
"It's all right Vene! I'm just happy you're free from that idiot." The albino cackled before returning the embrace.
"What's all this racket about?" South Italy sounded exasperated as he approached the door.
"Well you're as pleasant as ever aren't you?" Prussia asked with a smirk and said Italian blushed deeply before scowling at him.
"Shut up idiota!" He spat back only causing the albino to bark out a laugh.
The German Empire watched from behind his brother's back, somewhat confused as to who these two new personifications were.
"Oh wait a minute! Another reason I came here actually." Prussia began as both Italy brother's were confused.
The albino moved back to stand beside the blonde child. "This is my younger brother, The German Empire. He came about when the German states unified a couple of months back." He explained.
Both North and South Italy couldn't believe their eyes, North especially.
"This again huh." America muttered more so to himself.
Veneziano's amber eyes were as wide a saucers, jaw hanging open as he looked down at the blonde child.
"Holy-" Prussia quickly slapped his palm over the Italian's mouth, taking both brother's and Germany by surprise.
The action also silenced the whispered conversations throughout the room, now watching in surprise. The tone of the memory had quickly taken a nosedive in the wrong direction.
'Holy... is that a name?' More than one personification had that thought.
"Woah! What do you think you're doing?" Romano growled at the taller male, gripping him tightly by the wrist and away from his brother. Veneziano was still rigid with shock.
"Look... I'm sorry but it's not him." Prussia explained quietly to them both, voice emotionless and eyes downcast.
"Germany, this is North and South Italy." The albino introduced when it appeared that neither brother would speak.
"It's nice to meet you." The blonde bowed his head slightly.
Romano huffed back a quiet 'Whatever.'
"I-It's uh nice to meet you too... G-Germany." Veneziano managed to get out, voice shaky.
No one missed the distraught expression on the Italian's face. North himself looked uncharacteristically sad.
Prussia hadn't missed the look either.
"Alright. We need to get back home now little brother. We will see you around." The albino exclaimed with as much enthusiasm as he could muster.
The memory began to skip forward over a period of years before beginning to slow down.
Prussia was shown sharpening a sword, a frown on his face, dressed in full uniform.
"Brother?" Germany asked, expression a mix of confusion and concern. The child having appeared from within their quaint house. He had grown once more, now resembling a twelve year old boy.
"Ja?" The albino hardly turned his way, tone disinterested. The younger of the two was perplexed; this was unusual behaviour for the other.
"Is something the matter?" The German Empire pressed, moving to stand beside the taller.
Prussia appeared conflicted, huffing as he ceased his repetitive movements and threw the wickedly sharp sword onto the grass; a dull thud sounding after. Germany took a step back in surprise as the other whirled around to face him.
"No god dammit!" The albino spat out.
"What's wrong?" The blue eyed child inquired, watching his brother curiously.
"My stupid boss is forcing me to go to war!" Prussia seethed. Germany's eyes widened.
"I thought you liked fighting though."
"I do! It's just that... it's not... Ah! Forget about it! It's not like you would understand." Prussia declared, stumbling through his explanation.
Germany froze, a little hurt by his brother's words. So what if he was young? He wasn't an idiot.
The room was quiet as the nation's watched. They were seeing a side of Prussia most hadn't seen before.
Suddenly, as if a fire had been lit within him, Germany jumped forward.
"I may have no experience fighting in a real war but I'm not an idiot! I'm your brother, you can tell me when something is bothering you!" The child exclaimed, glaring up at the other.
Prussia was taken aback, red eyes open wide in shock.
Germany's forwardness had also been a surprise.
The albino was frozen in place before suddenly bursting into laughter. Germany's brows furrowed in confusion before a smile found itself on his face. His brother was acting normal again.
"That was very awesome of you little brother! I guess you learned from the best." Prussia exclaimed proudly.
"I guess so." The blonde replied, waiting for the taller to spill what was eating at him. He didn't have to wait long.
The white haired male sighed deeply, expression reserved once more.
"It's just that... it's not a fight I think we can win."
"There's nothing wrong with that." Germany replied without skipping a beat, shocking Prussia again.
"Heh... maybe I'm just overthinking this too much." The albino smirked and moved to ruffle the blonde's hair; earning a disgruntled sound from the other.
"Stop!" Germany groaned out and ducked away from his brother. Prussia roared with laughter. He huffed and rolled his eyes at the sight.
"I promise you that I'll be back before you know it!" Prussia smiled down at his younger brother. The blonde returned the gesture before wrapping his arms around the albino in a tight embrace.
"Haha I didn't take you as the hugging type." Prussia retorted, however returned the hug just as tightly.
"Awww, how sweet." Hungary smiled warmly.
"I didn't know you were capable of expressing emotions Germany." England snickered causing a few others to join in. Germany could only blush in embarrassment.
When the albino pulled away, he bent down to collect his sword.
"I'll keep my promise. See you later." Prussia waved without turning around.
The memory skipped forward once more, this time only a couple of months passed.
Germany was shown hunched over a bed. Expression shattered. On the bed was Prussia. The albino looking more sickly then ever. Covered in bloodied bandages, white hair matted with blood and plastered to his forward as the result of a fever.
"Hey brother," Germany began, voice tiny in the overwhelming silence.
"You lied."
The memory ended as the screen returned to its original form. The room silent once more.
"How could it end on such a sad note!" America exclaimed, causing them all to turn to him.
"Literally, it wasn't even a minute later before the tone changed." Canada added.
"I can't believe you never told me this!" Prussia exclaimed as he turned to Germany. The blonde just as flustered as earlier.
"Sorry but I didn't think it was a big deal. When you woke up you never said anything so I didn't think it was important." The German shrugged and his brother gasped.
"I just feel guilty now. I don't like it." Prussia pouted and Germany rolled his eyes.
"If it makes you feel any better I forgive you." The blonde muttered quietly so that only a few would hear.
"Danke."
"Anyway we should continue, that memory was a long one." Estonia stated and most personifications nodded in agreement.
Germany pressed play without another word, hoping this next one would take all the attention off of him.
An outdated office appeared. An ageing male seated behind a sturdy oak desk. Important looking documents occupied the surface in front of said male.
Seated across from him was America. Surprisingly he didn't have glasses yet. Without them, the blonde looked considerably younger.
"Looks like it's finally one of yours." Canada pointed out.
"Oh this will be good to see." England commented snidely.
"Yeah haha..." America trailed off uneasily. He had a feeling he knew what was going to be shown and the thought terrified him.
"To put into action what I promised when I was elected; the slavery in the south needs to come to an end. It is inhumane." The newly elected president announced confidently.
"I'm totally on board for whatever you wanna do Lincoln." America grinned.
If Abraham Lincoln was affected by the blonde's informality, he didn't show it; nodded his head in confirmation.
As the president continued to speak, the grin slowly fell off of America's face. His skin paling uncontrollably. Gripping the sides of his chair to stop his hands from trembling.
"Is something the matter?" Lincoln paused to watch the personification.
"Huh... Y-Yeah I'm fine." America gave him a shaky smile; albeit resembling more of a grimace then anything.
"You do not look okay. Is it something to do with the country?" The president persisted.
The question caused the blonde's blood to freeze, stopping him in his tracks. Something did feel weird; wrong, horribly wrong.
He shot out of the chair, almost knocking it to the carpet in his haste. Baby blue eyes wide as he came to the realisation.
"The South... I can't feel the South!?" America spluttered in a panic; one arm clutching at his stomach as pain racked his figure.
"That's because it doesn't belong to you anymore!" A feminine voice had both male's freeze, immediately turning to the new comer.
A woman, honey gold hair fixed into a bob style, baby blue eyes twinkling in amusement. She wore a tan uniform not unlike his own, however this stranger's was adorned in a flag that sent shivers down America's spine. Also the fact that she resembled him in an eerily similar way didn't help.
"What?" The personification was dumbfounded. The female grinned a wicked smile.
"You can call me the Confederate States of America. Those southern states you can't feel anymore; it's because they belong to me now."
More then one nation had gasped in shock, however no one moved to speak yet.
"What the hell are you on about!" America spat at her, anger replacing the shock; he was livid.
"Ahahaha," The female couldn't help the cackle that fell from her lips. "We're worried that the South will gain less power as the country continues to develop. But also the fact that you're outlawing our right to own slaves." Confederacy was angry, words snarled towards the other nation.
America gaped and his silence was all she needed to continue.
"Don't think this is a sudden decision. I'll have you both know that we've already got our own president and constitution written up. We're not taking this lightly." Her tone was cold, spitting right in their faces.
"What?!" The blonde spluttered.
"North and South Carolina. Mississippi. Florida. Alabama. Georgia. Louisiana. Texas. Virginia. Arkansas and Tennessee all belong to me now; and you can't do a thing about it." Confederacy taunted.
"Like hell we won't!" America growled in retaliation.
"Oh? You're actually going to try and take these states back from me are you? I don't think so." The female goaded. Agitation clear to see.
Both personifications were livid. Glaring at the other.
"I'll kill you." America spat with a deadly serious expression.
"Not if I kill you first. And then I'll be the sole representative of this country." Confederacy retaliated; visage just as dangerous.
"I'm afraid that this will have to wait until the next time we see each other. I'm a busy personification." The Confederate States finally turned away, smirking.
The blonde could only ground his teeth together in anger, watching as the shorter turned away.
"I guess this means we'll be going to war." She stated matter of factly.
"Looks like it. Now get the fuck out of here." America had had enough, tone icy.
"My pleasure." With that Confederacy had finally left. The blonde felt all of his energy suddenly leave him. He slumped back down in his chair appearing downright exhausted.
Abraham had watched the heated argument take place silently. Getting between two personification's of the same country would be a terrible idea any day of the week.
"It sounds like we should prepare for war. I was determined that the country remain as one; however, even I was not blind to the civil unrest in the south." The president spoke evenly.
America grumbled as he slammed his head onto the desk, a loud thud echoing after.
A few of the nation's watching winced.
"Why didn't you tell anyone about this?" England inquired.
"I told Canada. It wasn't like I had to tell the rest of you." America scowled. He wasn't looking forward to this. Out of all his memories that could've been shown, it had to be this one.
His curt tone had them turning to him in bemusement.
"Look I don't wanna relive this, can we just hurry it up." The blonde continued, irritation beginning to show on his face.
More then one personification found it hard to believe that America was acting so different.
"Of course." Germany nodded and pressed play once more.
The memory had skipped forward a week. President Lincoln was shown in front of a crowd. America standing off to the side, a serious expression on his face.
"I decided to make this announcement public. Now that the Confederacy has declared war against us, we must act efficiently. On the 19th of April, 1861, I am announcing the Union Blockade. Through this blockade the Union Navy will be attempting to keep supplies from entering or leaving the confederacy. This is a means to weaken them." The president spoke evenly, the crowd cheering when he had finished.
"This better work." America muttered once Abraham had stepped away from the public.
"I have faith in this plan. It may not happen straight away but that's okay." He ageing male explained calmly.
"Huh?" The personification raised an eyebrow in confusion.
"War is a marathon not a sprint my boy. Have patience." Lincoln gave a slight smile before turning back to the crowd.
America's eyes widened before he nodded in agreement.
The memory begins to fast forward once more. This time showcasing snippets of battles from across the United States. The screen began to refocus showing a number of poorly trained soldiers fighting against one another.
A great number of men had already fallen, blood pooling around the deceased.
To the nation's surprise, it appeared that the Confederate was winning the battle. They held the advantage.
In the middle of the fight both America and Confederate were standing opposite each other. The female wearing a shit eating grin.
"I know you can feel it. We are winning. We came prepared. How does it feel?" She mocked, accent overtly southern.
"Shut up!" America spat, using a clenched fist to wipe a glob of blood from his chin.
"You're just upset you're loosing. If I'm correct this is the second time you've lost here? You must really want me to succeed." Confederate laughed hysterically. She was hunched over from the action, tears streaming down her face in amusement.
This only caused America to grow even more agitated, he raised his bayonet and aimed at the other personification.
Whilst she was distracted, he fired off a shot, hitting her in the chest. The Confederate's laughter was abruptly cut off with a choked sound.
The blonde moved a hand to her chest, blood beginning to bubble up from the wound and stain her tan uniform. Her baby blue eyes slowly morphed from surprise to poorly hidden anger.
"You shot me." She growled out, pulling her own bayonet out.
"Yeah. I did." America was just as livid, their weapons pointed at the other.
All of a sudden the American felt dizzy, legs shaky as he struggled to remain standing. His head felt as if it were full of lead. To his surprise the female was smirking at him.
"You know what your weakness is a sign of right?" The words resounded through the clearing, above the sounds of soldiers fighting and falling.
America couldn't manage to answer, too shaken with the familiar feeling to reply.
"I've won again. The Second Battle of Bull Run belongs to the Confederate States." The grin on said female's face couldn't get any wider.
Before the blonde personification could even react, Confederate had shot him point blank in the head. He was immediately downed, temporarily dead in an instant.
More then one personification gasped in shock, and America couldn't bring himself to meet any of their concerned eyes.
"She actually managed to kill you?" Russia had been the one to comment. Surprisingly there was no malice in his tone.
"Yeah... did it more then once too. I mean I killed her as well. It was a lot of death." America sighed deeply, this memory was seriously taking it out of him.
"There was more then 600,000 deaths from both sides you know? I may not have had control of some of my southern states but I still felt every single death." The blonde continued, shocking them all even further.
America appeared downcast and melancholic.
When no one knew how to answer the American, Germany cleared his throat. "Lets continue." And no one opposed him on that.
The memory continued, fast forwarding once again, revealing scenes from other fights in quick procession. There was so many fights, one after another. So many deaths, bodies piled up on their makeshift battlefield.
When it slowed once more it seemed some time had passed this time. Abraham Lincoln seated in front of a group of similarly dressed politicians. Again America was present, a little wounded, howbeit, as confident as ever.
"It is my pleasure that on the 1st of January, 1863, I am able to issue an executive order in which will free many slaves from their captives. I believe this order is the groundwork needed to further develop the Thirteenth Amendment." Lincoln announced proudly, more then one person in the room appearing overjoyed with the news.
"This is groundbreaking work towards winning this war." The President continued and America couldn't stop the smug grin from forming on his face.
The memory skipping once again to a few months later, showing the Battle of Gettysburg. Not only was this conflict won by America and the North, it was the turning point in the war; the South starting to crumble beneath their pressure.
This time America is shown holding the Confederate States to the ground, the female battered and bruised beneath him. His bayonet's blade held tightly to her throat. Blood trickling from the contact.
"Who's winning now? Because to me it looks like you're almost out of time." America smirked, watching as Confederate grew fearful. He didn't let her get another word in before slitting her throat.
The memory jumped again, another montage of fights being skipped before their eyes.
America was shown when the screen slowed to a stop for the fifth time. A smug grin on his visage as he sat across from the Confederate States. Said female was glaring daggers at him.
"I'm sure you've heard the news? General Lee has surrendered. The Confederate States have lost the war. You lost!" America exclaimed, laughter escaping at the outcome.
"Shut up!" Confederate growled out, clenching her fists together in anger, however, she was weak.
"Honestly," The blonde sighed deeply, tone serious. "I never wanted to fight against the South, against you. I was hoping it wouldn't have come to this."
Confederate's eyes snapped wide open at the admission, before scowling once more.
"Unfortunately I don't feel the same. You've made a grave mistake outlawing slaves and stomping down on the South." She spat back in his face. There were deep bruises littering her face and neck. Bandages covered her arms and wrists. Blood stained her uniform. It couldn't be helped though. Now that the Confederate States had failed in their mission, they had been dissolved. She was barely even a personification anymore.
America could only study her injured figure, before smiling softly at the fight still in her eyes.
"I'm sorry." He apologised as he pulled a musket from his desk drawer and held it against her forehead, fingers resting against the trigger.
"Go to hell." Confederacy whispered in pure hate before the trigger was pulled. Her limp body falling from the wooden seat onto the carpeted floor, blood exuding from the wound. She was dead instantly, no more temporary death.
America could only sigh deeply in exhaustion, dropping the musket to his desk, watching as it clattered against the surface.
The screen faded back to black and everyone turned to America in anticipation.
"I was expecting a different ending. Something like a fight scene." China spoke up.
"Yeah! That was super anticlimactic! Kinda unawesome bro!" Prussia exclaimed in agreement.
"Well... After the Confederate States had been defeated she lost all personification status. The only reason she had come to my office that day was for me to kill her permanently." America explained to their shock.
"Talk about knowing you're going to die. It's kind of sad to think about." North Italy commented.
"Yeah. I'm not gonna lie though, it was nice to get rid of her." The blonde shrugged.
"I understand." Russia muttered, meeting his eyes, both coming to an understanding.
"Ya know what? I think I'll stick with my emus." Australia commented with a nervous laugh. New Zealand choking back a laugh.
"Anyway this is kinda a sore subject for me. I'd appreciate if we could continue." America asked and Germany nodded.
The gathered nations began to settle as the screen darkened.
Beautiful renaissance styled buildings appeared. A cobblestone path cut through the area and canals intersected throughout the scene.
"This is my memory." North Italy had opened his amber eyes in surprise at the familiar scene; attracting the room's attention.
"It's not bad is it?" Canada asked curiously.
"Not really." The Italian trailing off, surprisingly serious, taking more than a few back.
Germany pressed play once the room quietened.
A twelve or so year old Italy appeared, dressed in white. A scowl on his childish face, amber eyes narrowed.
More than one nation watching gaped at the sight of Italy Veneziano angry. A few shooting glances in his direction, however, the Italian was focused solely on the memory.
"Stupid England deciding to leave the Catholic Church and make his own religion." Veneziano sniggered irately. "What would he know." He laughed as he stomped through the clearing.
"Rude." England commented at the remark, taken aback by Italy's out of character attitude.
"Not only that but The Ottoman Empire is asking for it!" The Italian snarled to himself. "Genoa too for that matter. Little upstart brat." Italy huffed angrily, pausing in front of a wooden door.
Not many in the room watching had seen the Italian get so angry before, a bemusing sight.
Turkey suddenly recognised the memory. The way North Italy looked and spoke; it was that memory.
Veneziano knocked loudly, before a fourteen year old Romano opened it, and seeing his brother's anger, let him in quickly.
"Vene? What's wrong?" Romano asked curiously. The older Italian was dressed in dark green pants and a white shirt. He was wincing in pain and there was a bandage wrapped tightly around his head.
Italy, completely ignoring his brother, turned his scathing glare on him. Expression softening at seeing him in pain. "Roma... What happened to you?" South Italy blanched before cursing under his breath.
"Nothing fratello, don't worry-" Veneziano interjected, cutting him off.
"Fratello, you can tell me." His tone and amber eyes having lost their previous fire.
"Ah-well shit... The Ottoman Empire- he tried to kidnap me." Romano blushed, fumbling for words.
North Italy's eyes widened significantly at what his brother had told him, before narrowing in anger once more. The Italian didn't say a word as he walked away from his brother. South Italy watched in bemusement as his brother left the room.
He then reappeared carrying a wickedly sharp short sword, a furious expression on his face.
Romano gasped at the sight of the weapon. "What the hell Vene?!"
Italy turning to smirk at him. "I'm going to deal with an empire. Ciao fratello." He waved before leaving the building.
South Italy sighed heavily, collapsing into a chair. "God damn it! He needs to get over this empire business. I'd love to see Vene stab him though." He muttered the last part, sounding exasperated.
The memory began to skip forward before it was paused by Germany. Everyone turned to Italy, once again taken aback by his completely different behaviour.
"From what we've seen so far, this is unlike you. Why is that?" Estonia inquired curiously.
"Well you know how I represent Northen Italy sì?" At everyone's nods, he continued. "I also represent the region of Venice. And at that time Venice was an empire." He explained to their surprised looks.
"Let me get this straight- You were representing the Venetian Empire then?" China asked and Italy nodded.
"Sì, and I was not nice. Being the representative of a developed and increasingly powerful empire turns you into an asshole." The Italian stated bluntly and a few blanched before nodding in understanding.
"When was this?" Japan asked politely.
"Sixteenth century so the 1500's." Italy explained, turning to him.
"I'm guessing you attack Turkey then?" Germany turned to his friend.
"Sì~" Veneziano replied smugly, more then one nation raising their eyebrows at the tone. When the room was quiet once more the memory was unpaused and allowed to continue.
Fast forwarded was North Italy's trip by boat through the Adriatic and Mediterranean Seas. The screen slowing down as the hefty ship was docked at a busy port.
"I'll be back." Veneziano's glare hadn't lessened any; amber eyes unnaturally cold. He made quick work of departing the ship and headed deeper into the city.
Thankfully it didn't take long for the young personification to locate the Empire. Italy let out a huff in irritation. He watched as the Ottoman Empire conversed with a few humans, gathered in a lesser populated area. A stretch of wooden piers to his left and a few market stalls to his right. An expanse of dirt between the two.
Veneziano raised his short sword before launching at the hulking empire. Taking the taller male by surprise as he raked the blade down his back.
Turkey winced rewatching the memory. He had been so wrong to underestimate the Italian.
Prussia let out a gasp as he watched the screen in awe. Surprise marred more then one personification's visage.
The Ottoman Empire hunched over immediately, letting out a pained cry as he whipped around.
"Ottoman Empire!" North Italy spat, glaring him down coldly. He held his sword high, blood now dripping down the silver blade.
"Italy." The Empire was angry. An irritated smirk falling into place as he straightened to his full height. He truely did tower over the other personification.
"Like no offence dude, but you're so much smaller then him." America blurted out, seemingly over his funk from the last memory.
"Yes, I don't believe that was the wisest decision." England muttered, still butt hurt over the Italian's comments earlier.
"Maybe we should just keep watching and see what happens?" Germany suggested and North Italy nodded in agreement, a small smile on his face. When no one disagreed, he pressed play once again.
"To what do I owe the pleasure?" He inquired, glaring down at the other.
"You know what you've done. I've had enough of you!" The Italian retorted.
"Oh do I now? What could you possibly even hope to achieve by coming here today? To 'teach me a lesson'?" The Ottoman Empire taunted, smirk malicious.
"Stay away from Romano! And stay out of the Adriatic! Those waters belong to me!" Italy snarled, raising his sword in the taller's direction.
"Hahaha that was all you came to tell me? You mean to say you travelled this far just to tell me to keep my hands off your brother?" The Ottoman Empire couldn't contain his amusement. Cacophonous laughter filled the clearing.
Venziano scoffed. The other had underestimated him, and for that, he was going to pay.
Unexpectedly, the Italian launched forward, swinging his sword ready to strike the other once more.
To his shock, the Empire avoided the strike, stepping to the left, movement unaffected by his wound.
"Oh don't tell me you thought it would be that easy to strike me again did you?" The Ottoman Empire was smug. Italy ground his teeth together in frustration. The taller could only laugh mockingly.
When the Ottoman Empire pulled out a weapon of his own, a long sword, Italy had to take a step back.
He wasn't regretting his decision, however, the other's weapon was taller then he was.
Before he knew it, the Empire had sprinted forward. The next second the sound of metal reverberated through the clearing, Veneziano having raised his sword to prevent the other from cleanly cutting him in half.
A sound of desperation escaped his lips as he struggled to keep the other at bay; hands and arms trembling against the strength of the other.
The Ottoman Empire grinned. Before Veneziano was able to react, the other booted him fair in the stomach.
"Argh!.." He let out a stuttered cry in pain as his sword was knocked from his hands. Trying to catch his breath as pain radiated through his entire body.
The taller male smirked, it seemed Italy was distracted. Using that opportunity, he brought his sword down to strike.
Veneziano noticed this, throwing himself to the left in an attempt to avoid the wickedly sharp blade. It resulted in the blade just nicking his cheek and the bridge of his nose.
"Stupid brat!" The taller personification spat out as Italy retreated further to recuperate. He was panting heavily and blood had began to drip from the cut on his face.
The two were glaring at each other. The Empire's eyes covered, however, Veneziano could feel the hatred emanating from the other.
Faster then he thought possible, the Italian whipped out a sharp-edged dagger and ran at the other. Taking the Empire by surprise when he managed to avoid his sword and jab the weapon into his right arm, dragging the blade through his skin like a spoon through soup.
The Ottoman Empire let out a pained roar, dropping his weapon in favour to clutch at his injured arm. The bloody cut ranging from just above his elbow to his wrist.
Using the distraction, Veneziano quickly picked up the other's sword and threw it into the sea in front of them.
"You'll pay for that you brat!" The taller male growled out. Italy scoffed at him, scowl on his face as he faced the other.
He was ready for when Ottoman Empire came at him. Neither of them had their swords anymore, howbeit, he still held the dagger. Without it, Vene would be a little concerned. Physical strength alone, he didn't have a chance in hell at winning a fight against the other.
Blood pooled down the taller personification's arm, staining his red and white robes. The Empire testing it's usability.
After a few moments of silence between the two, North Italy's patience was wearing thin. A sense of foreboding also bubbling up within him; holding his dagger tighter to prevent his hands from trembling.
When he least expected it, the Ottoman Empire bound forward. Before Veneziano could even attempt to avoid the attack he was brutally kicked in the side.
The Italian was sent tumbling to the dusty earth gasping for breath and clutching his side; dagger long forgotten.
"You thought you were so clever earlier. Who has the last laugh now?" The empire's tone was stone cold serious. He towered over Italy.
The amber eyed child could only manage a weak glare before the tanned male brought his foot down once again.
"Ack!-" A pained sound escaped Veneziano when he was kicked again, this time in the jaw. His head collided against the harsh earth with a tumultuous thud.
More then one personification watching winced. From their perspective, unaware of what was to come, Veneziano had the absolute shit beat out of him.
"Were you okay?" Japan asked quietly, worry evident on his face.
"Yeah dude! You're taking a serious beating at the moment!" America exclaimed, also concerned.
"I'm fine, really. This isn't even the worst part." North Italy replied in an attempt to calm their nerves, howbeit, only ended up making them more anxious.
South Italy glanced towards his brother. His visage passive save for well-hidden anguish. His brother had gotten seriously hurt trying to defend him. What sort of older brother was he?
As if sensing what Romano was feeling, Veneziano sent him a warm smile. It didn't help to ease his nerves one bit.
Germany then pressed play once more when the room had settled again.
Veneziano could only watch the Ottoman Empire blearily, his vision flickering in and out before said male stomped down on his chest. The sound of bones being crushed under the boot of the heavyset male.
This time he did scream in pain, the sound cut off when North Italy began to choke on his own blood. The rich red liquid exuding from his mouth and trailing down his chin and cheeks.
"Internal bleeding?!" Hungary gasped in shock and horror, Veneziano could only nod melancholically in her direction; he could still remember how much it had hurt.
Again and again, the Ottoman Empire brought his foot down to kick Italy. In the face, in the stomach. He broke his nose easily, blood gushing from the crooked appendage. He stomped on his left wrist, the bone cracking underneath his foot.
When the taller personification finally stepped away from Veneziano, he could only glare smugly at his injured figure.
Veneziano was struggling to keep himself conscious. His numerous injuries, both internal and external were beginning to take a toll on his mind. He was loosing so much blood. His healing factor was working too slowly. At this rate he'd be killed.
The nation's watching were too horrified to say anything. Sure they'd seen others fight before this memory, but nothing like this.
Suddenly the Ottoman Empire reached down to wrap his hands around Veneziano's neck, pulling the child off the ground.
North Italy let out a choked growl as he was strangled, body writhing in the air, hands coming up to try and pull the Empire's off of him.
"V-Vaffanculo!" Vene managed to spit out, the hands around his throat only squeezing tighter.
The Italian could feel as it became harder to breathe. He wouldn't die here. Not without getting his revenge first. Suddenly something snapped within him, his amber eyes narrowed in frustration.
Veneziano struck first, digging his hands into the bleeding wound he had left on the other's arm. Pulling apart the skin and driving his small hands into the wound, attempting to cause the other unimaginable amounts of pain.
"I think I'm going to be sick." Lithuania mumbled, appearing green in the face. He wasn't the only one.
"Arghhhhhh!" The Ottoman Empire screamed in pain and released the child's throat. He collapsed to his knees to cradle his injured arm to his chest.
North Italy was dropped, falling heavily onto his side, wincing at the impact. He began drawing in deep breaths quickly.
A lull overcame the two personification's. North Italy the first to move. He pulled himself up onto shaky knees. Dark, hand shaped bruises covered almost the entirety of his neck. He couldn't stop moving though, otherwise the pain would catch up to him.
That thought alone pushed Veneziano to find his abandoned dagger and bury it into the unsuspecting Ottoman Empire's throat.
"Wha-?!" The stuttered shout was cut off as blood began to bubble up from the taller empire's mouth. He clutched as his throat as Italy pulled the dagger away. A scowl on his face.
Not letting the other male get any leverage at all, Veneziano used all his strength to thrust the dagger into his chest.
The Ottoman Empire cried out again. North Italy took the advantage and launched himself at the other, straddling his chest and pushing his back against the ground.
He stabbed the blade down again and again. Watching as the taller empire's movements began to falter, much like his had earlier.
"You should just die! Die! Die! Die!" Veneziano cried out, shoving his dagger in deeper. He suddenly released the handle when the Ottoman Empire was no longer moving. A raucous laugh escaping his small figure as he stepped away from the empire.
"Hahaha. I win." North Italy spoke, a smirk on his face.
The Ottoman Empire only coherent enough to move his eyes beneath his blood-stained mask. Pain evident on his visage as he struggled for breath. His body was covered in stab wounds, blood pooling underneath him.
"Stay away from Romano! And stay out of the Adriatic! Those waters belong to me!" The Italian spat the same words from earlier, any sense of mirth completely gone. His tone icy cold.
"Not only that but I think you owe me for breaking my nose." Veneziano sounded malicious, a dark grin on his visage before he stomped down on the Ottoman Empire's unguarded face.
Blood began to drip from his nose, mask broken under his foot. The Empire was no longer conscious and he couldn't care less. Just another enemy he had defeated.
Now no one knew what to say again but for a different reason. Who knew North Italy could be so violent.
Most personification's turned to face him with pure unbridled shock and horror on their faces.
"What the hell was that?!" America cried out.
"I didn't know you were so badass North! That's so awesome!" Prussia exclaimed.
"I'm kinda scared." Latvia trembled from his seat.
"I shouldn't have underestimated you. I'm sorry about that." Turkey explained, wincing as he remembered exactly how much pain he had been in.
"It's all right. Everyone always underestimates me." Veneziano smiled innocently.
"Can I ask, if you were so good at fighting what happened during the World Wars?" England asked the question, furrowing his brow in confusion. This got the other's attention too.
"Hmm well I just didn't want to fight. I wasn't really for the war, it was more my bosses decision. So I chose not to participate." North Italy answered to their surprise.
"I still have the dagger you know. I used it again against Austria and France." The Italian continued, shocked looks sent his way once more.
"Why?" Germany inquired, genuinely curious about his friend. Although he was surprised too.
"For Austria it was the Italian wars of independence. France... he deserved it." Veneziano stated, tone serious once more. At the same time both France and Austria winced at the memory.
"Now that is something I can agree on." England muttered in agreement.
"The memory is still playing da? Let's continue, I want to see more." Russia asked and Germany nodded. The memory was allowed to continue.
Veneziano finally steps away from the bloodied figure in front of him. The Ottoman Empire was temporarily dead.
A terrible mix of exhaustion and pain hit him all at once, his small figure collapsing to the ground almost immediately. Sitting on his knees, hands digging into the hard ground to keep himself stable and coherent.
Pain racked his figure as the adrenaline wore off and everything hurt.
The Italian was definitely worse for wear. Dried blood staining his white outfit, his face and hands. His nose was crooked, there was a deep cut on his forehead, his wrist was broken. Dark bruises covered his throat and his eye. And that was only the external damage.
"I saw the whole fight you know." A soft voice to the side of him makes Veneziano jump, heart pounding as he whips around.
Greece had taken a seat beside him. He was absentmindedly petting a dark coloured cat. The personification appeared to be around the age of sixteen or seventeen.
"Of course you were watching the shit get beat out of me." Turkey grumbled.
"It was worth it." Greece mumbled back. The other could only growl in irritation.
"Greece?" North Italy questioned, amber eyes wide in surprise.
"Don't worry I'm not going to hurt you. I actually wanted to thank you." The older personification's tone was passive, howbeit, their was a smile on his face.
"Huh?" Now Veneziano was just confused.
"I've wanted to get revenge for my mother for a long time now, however, I have never been able to do so myself. So I thank you for doing something I couldn't." Greece's smile grew even bigger.
"Oh. He's been irritating me for years now. The final straw was when he went after Romano. I had fun." The Italian grinned. The conversation distracting him from his pain.
"I see. It seems we had a common enemy then. I must thank you again." The Greek bowed his head in thanks.
"It's nothing." North Italy shook his head and the two sat in a peaceful silence afterwards.
"Would uou like to pat her?" Greece offered his cat. The pet purring as he held her.
"Sure." The two personification's were again in amicable silence, petting the dark coloured cat until Veneziano felt well enough to stand.
"I will see you around. It was nice to talk."
After the two parted ways, the Italian made his way back to his ship. The memory suddenly fast-forwarded the return trip back to Italy.
The memory began to slow as it showed Italy and another personification seated beside him.
Those who recognised the newcomer gasped in shock. Italy's smile was gone instantly.
"I had forgotten about this part." He muttered quietly. No one missed the hint of sorrow in his tone.
Prussia couldn't even bring himself to watch the screen. France couldn't tear his eyes away. Hungary clutched into Austria's hand tightly.
Everyone else watched with interest now.
The child held a roll of bandages and a wet cloth. Said cloth slowly becoming more red as the blonde gently cleaned each wound.
"You shouldn't act so recklessly next time! You could have been really hurt!" The child suddenly cried out, worry in his tone.
The other personification's finally came to understand why everyone had freaked out meeting Germany.
"Why does that look like Germany?" America asked the question on everybody's mind. Watching the few who would actually have an answer.
"That's the Holy Roman Empire. He was formed back in the 800's." Veneziano explained softly, gaining the room's attention.
Prussia moved to speak, however, the Italian shot him a look.
"He was killed in 1802." He continued, tone growing downcast. More then one nation shivered at the statement.
France couldn't contain his guilt. It was his fault; all his fault.
"And then not even 100 years later Germany appears with his face. They were the same age too." Prussia spoke up, for once completely serious.
"That's why you all freaked out earlier?" England inquired and the albino could only nod in confirmation.
No one could say anything. It wasn't something anyone really wanted to talk about. Personification's dying permanently was a terrifying thought.
When the silence began to get awkward, Germany pressed play.
"I'm sorry." Veneziano replied softly. The Holy Roman Empire only sighed before smiling.
"It's okay. You're okay. The Ottoman Empire won't take you so lightly next time." With that the Italian let out a light laugh.
"I'd be surprised if there was a next time." Both North Italy and HRE shared a laugh at that.
"That's good. I don't wanna be stuck patching you up again." Holy Roman Empire snickered.
"Hey who says I'd even let you? I could've done this myself you know?" Veneziano stated with a smirk.
"Of course you could. Doesn't mean I'm not going to help. You're my best friend." The blonde child rolled his eyes with a grin. The Italian returning it in full.
The two fell quiet as the Holy Roman Empire continued to patch up Veneziano's injuries. When he finished, North Italy thanked him profusely before going to find his brother.
"Fratello?!" South Italy exclaimed at seeing the other's injuries.
"I'm fine Romano, seriously!" Veneziano engulfed him in a tight hug. The older brother returning it in force.
"Grazie." South Italy muttered quietly into their embrace.
The memory faded out and the screen returned to its original state.
The room was tense. No one knew what to say. These last few memories had been quite tolling on more then a few personification's.
"I think we need another break." Germany finally announced and it was like everyone let out a sigh of relief.
Romano immediately made his way to his brother. "I want to talk, please?" He pleaded.
"Of course fratello." Veneziano replied earnestly.
Other nation's began grouping up, mostly to sort things out; again.
Germany headed for his brother specifically. He had some questions he needed answered.
When Prussia noticed him approaching he sighed deeply. "I knew you'd be wanting answers."
"Why didn't you tell me earlier that I looked like someone else? It's why you all freaked out after meeting me." Germany inquired calmly, although, there was a hint of hurt in his tone. He had wished his brother had filled him in.
"I'm sorry. I didn't think it'd ever come up, there was no reason for you to ever worry about it then." The albino apologised, tone sincere.
"Well its not like anyone predicted this." Germany gestured to the huge screen. Prussia snickered at that.
"True that. I'll tell you what. Let's continue this conversation later, I'll tell you whatever you would like to know?" He smiled at his brother. The blonde smiling softly.
"Sounds good."
Omg I'm so sorry this took me so long to get out. I actually did start writing this in April last year, however, I just haven't had the motivation to come back to it, not until December anyway.
A few things first, I have a head-cannon I want to address. I believe that North Italy is stronger then what is shown in the anime and most fanfiction. That's why I wrote his memory like I did. Someone who beat Turkey as a child shouldn't have just whimped out of the world wars for no reason so I gave him an actual reason. Also I like to believe that Prussia and Germany have a real brotherly relationship so I decided to show snippets of that too.
I'm so sorry the America memory is so shit. I really struggled with that one. I'm not American, I never learnt American history in school, so yeah that was the most difficult by far to write. The last two days alone I've written a total of 5000 words for this chapter alone, that's half this chapter.
I really did want to update at New Years for you all but I was nowhere near finished, however, seeing as it was my birthday today I really wanted to get this chapter out for you all. Also yeah, I'm 20 years old today, how crazy is that?
I'm so sorry for my procrastination over the last year or so. I got into Haikyu and binge watched all four seasons and then binge read the manga. Something I definitely recommend. Another thing I really got into is Persona 5 and the other Persona games. I'm telling you this because I don't have much interest in Hetalia anymore.
So unfortunately this fanfic is now on hiatus. I may update again, I may not. Feel free to leave suggestions for memories, it may inspire me to write another chapter.
Thank you so much for waiting for this chapter, for reading it, voting, commenting. Even reading this authors note if you did. I'm so glad to have people reading this fanfic, it means a lot. I hope you like the chapter and the inclusion of Holy Roman Empire.
-Ella