How to Befriend a North Korean

by Morkee

They're two nations who are similar, yet different. They both split into separate countries, associate with China, and their government is a bit on the wacky side. Malaysia is very friendly and patient. But no matter how good she was with people, there is just no possibility that she could be intimate with someone as menacing and stubborn as North Korea... right? 3 CHAPTERS LEFT

10. The Past part 3

I-i can explain my absence...

No, I can't. Turns out writing a 10k chapter took longer than expected. After I was done with my 3 week break I started writing this, but then everything changed when writers block attacked. In fact, this is LONGER than 10k just to make it up to yall. I hope you enjoy it.

Warning: mentions of Japanese occupation, self-harm, rape

Disclaimer: My ocs and I are simple minded potatoes that don't own this series. Also I am really dark...

---

North Korea laid on his bed wide awake, with his arms above his head in thought. Maybe he shouldn't have ran away from Malaysia. All she wanted to do was help him, but he pushed her away. North Korea became paranoid and distrustful in the heat of the moment, after finding out her odd intentions. He snorted. Of course he would do that. He pushed everyone he loved away. North can't really help it, he was probably cursed to have everyone he cared about disappear. That had to be the reason.

Sighing, he got up and staggered sluggishly towards his window. He lifted the hinge and stared at the clear, full moon. North Korea felt at ease whenever he would look at it. It was the same moon he watched with his brother. The same moon that saw the battles he fought, external and internal. It would be there for him when he needed it.

"I guess Malaysia is probably weirded out by me now that she knows who I really am." North Korea said breathlessly. "If Yong Soo really told her about everything we went through, then she probably hates me. He might've even told her how shitty I am, huh?"

The moon wouldn't judge his thoughts. He liked explaining his feelings to it so he wouldn't have to bottle his feelings up inside like a maniac. "I bet she gave up on me. I don't want that, but I have to be mature and accept it... right?" A sharp pain twisted in his stomach, like he just got stabbed. North Korea winced and took a deep breath. "But for once... I don't want to give up on someone. Why can't I hate her easily? Why... is it so hard?" He covered his face in his hands.

Even though it was there for him, the moon could never comfort the pitiful Korean.

---

Malaysia woke up and was immediately reminded of her mission. She sighed and pulled her large blanket over herself. She really didn't get enough sleep last night after everything that a happened. Her friendship with North Korea was important... but her procrastination levels were too high for her to beat.

At the wrong moment, her phone rang.

She groaned and picked up the cell, not even bothering to check the caller id. "Hello...?"

"YO! I'M AT RUSSIA'S HOUSE RIGHT NOW AND I'M TRYING TO GET HIM TO JOIN THE SQUAD! HEY CHINA STOP- STOP TRYING TO TAKE THE PHONE AWAY- ANYWAYS CAN YOU COME OVER HERE CHINA IS BEING RU-"

"MALAYSIA! RUSSIA IS CRYING AND I NEED HELP! ARU-"

"YO MALAYSIA YOU LISTENING?!" America screamed over the phone.

"O-oh... on the way." She grimaced to herself. Malaysian timing is different than everyone else. She hoped he didn't get what she meant by that. To her, on the way meant "I'm-still-laying-in-bed".

"Alright see you later-HEY RUSSIA STOP STRANGLING TAIWA-"

The phone beeped as the line went down. Judging by the energetic, hyperactive voice- she assumed it was America. Malaysia looked down at the screen and confirmed her suspicions to be correct.

She sighed and got the strength to get out of bed. America was always one to go too far. He never knew when to quit, did he? Malaysia had to go there right now if she wanted the plan to work-

Her stomach let out a low rumble as she groaned in response. Malaysia realized her stomach wasn't full and she would have to skip breakfast in order to arrive as quickly as possible. She assumed this was her punishment for not making North Korea her first priority. America stole all her fruit so she couldn't eat anything on the way there... darn that man...

Malaysia got dressed and went to the nearest train station to go to Russia's place. China mentioned where he lived one time, so this information helped her in the future. On the train, she noticed North Korea was missing. He might've took another train, or he was just avoiding her. Malaysia felt a wave of guilt splash over her. She really should've told him her true motives. He has a tendency to be extremely cynical and quick to make assumptions.

She hurried off the cart and speed walked over to Russia's place. Malaysia knocked on the door and tilted her head, calling out to them. She heard a havoc inside the building, so she thought maybe they were messing around again. The world superpowers aren't as cool as everyone made them out to be.

"Hello?" Malaysia called out, waiting for the door to open in anticipation.

The door slammed open as she took a step back. It revealed Russia holding America down to the floor while China was sitting in a chair, drinking tea. Taiwan was lying on the floor with drool, creating a tiny puddle of saliva.

Malaysia chuckled in a nervous fashion and waved sheepishly. "Selamat Pagi?"

America pushed Russia off him and dusted himself off. He put his hands on his hips irritably. "Took you long enough!" He huffed.

She instead of rolling her eyes sarcastically, she hunched down and let out a long sigh. "I didn't know we were going to force people into helping someone. My, my boss. Your such a good person." Malaysia waked over to Russia, who was rubbing his sore bottom. She held her hand towards him. "Are you okay?"

He nodded and took her hand, and she helped him get up from his spot. "America is just being rude and brash as usual." A small protest come from the said American as Malaysia shook her head in response. Suddenly, a familiar voice was heard behind her.

"Damia?"

Malaysia turned around to see a stunned Indonesia. She instantly became awkward and started twirling her hair with a finger. "H-hey... What are you doing here?"

Indonesia chuckled. "I was at China's house because we had to work out trading stuff. Then America rushes in out of no where and proclaims he needs China to 'save Korea from despair', or something along those lines. He mentioned North and I immediately wanted to help, hehe." This made Malaysia curious on why she would do it for North Korea.

"Why would you want to help?"

Indonesia sighed softly out of nostalgia. "I always kinda wanted to become an acquaintance to the guy." She put a hand on her cheek and smiled at her fond memory. "When his leader came to our country, my boss introduced him to the garden. Kim Il Sung passed by a nameless orchid and immediately fell in love with it. North was quiet and stiff, but his demeanor softened just by looking at the flower. I though; 'Maybe he wasn't as bad as I thought he was.' Thus, it was named Kimilsungia to symbolize the eternal relationship between our countries." Malaysia felt her mouth open with shock as Indonesia continued her tale. "We never spoke after that, even with our embassy. It's a little sad, now that I think of it."

"What about that time when he went up to me in the meeting?" Malaysia asked curiously. Indonesia only shrugged.

"You looked uncomfortable and North looked uncomfortable. The turn out probablyyy wouldn't be too good." Then she laughed and put a arm around Malaysia's shoulder. "Honestly, please stop interrogating me. I won't steal your man. Trust me, I tried with Singapore. You get possessive when you need to."

Malaysia's face reddened and she pushed Indonesia's arm away. "Stop invading my personal space bodoh!"

"Like you invaded mine just now? I didn't need to tell you my ever blossoming relationship with North Korea." Indonesia clapped her hands together and gave her a cheshire cat smile. "So tell me about you and him. I always see you hang out with that guy nowadays." Malaysia was always like this around Indonesia. They fought like children, but held each others backs like siblings. Usually their small 'fights' were just childish bickering. But the arguments still made Malaysia' skin crawl.

"We um, we're good friends." She answered squeamishly, unsure whether if it was true or not. Indonesia snorted.

"Like how you and Singapore were good frie-"

"WHY ARE YOU LIKE THIS?!" Malaysia shrieked. They continued their fight when Malaysia pointed out 'Hey, at least I married. You sad loner...'

Taiwan woke up from the sound of bickering and blinked a couple times before fully getting a grasp of the situation. She saw Russia and America wrestling in the corner, though in her eyes it looked like really passionate sexual tension. China was calmly sipping tea while giving a thumbs up to Russia whenever he got the upper hand in the fight. Malaysia and Indonesia had a heated argument over food, Indonesia claiming Malaysia stole her 'treasured dish'.

And that took a huge blow to Malaysia's ego. Taiwan could see the fury in her eyes.

Macau already disappeared into the kitchen, not wanting to get involved at all. Hong Kong had also left without a trace. Taiwan deadpanned, just thinking about how crazy the situation was already.

"H-hey guys?" Taiwan asked in a hoarse whisper. No one seemed to pay attention to the girl lying on the floor. China quickly glanced at her, sipped tea from his cup, and turned his eyes away from her. This made her extremely agitated.

"GUYS!" She slammed her fist onto the ground. Everyone in the room stopped what they were doing and turned to face her. Her eye was twitching and looked like she was going to snap at any given moment. "Have you all forgot what we're here for?!"

"To steal food from everyone's house?" China suggested. Macau and Hong Kong were in the doorway with Russian candies piled up in their pockets. Taiwan slapped her forehead and shook her head.

"No... the plan to get our stupid brothers to stop fighting." The whole room 'awed' in unison at the mention. They all completely forgot their point.

"Well..." America lifted himself off of Russia and scratched the back of his head awkwardly. "I guess things got a bit out of hand."

Malaysia sighed, seeing Taiwan's point. Honestly what was she thinking? She was here to recoil her relationship with her friend but like always, Indonesia pulled her into another one of her shenanigans. Malaysia felt proud of Taiwan's outburst, because it made her snap back into reality. Taiwan almost reminded her of herself... if she were more unmotivated and hungry.

Speaking of hunger, the silent room suddenly heard Malaysia's stomach growl. Indonesia snickered while Malaysia slapped her back out of embarrassment.

"Aiyaa, you forgot to eat? Malaysia this isn't like you..." China furrowed his eyebrows as he stared at the woman. "Are you okay?"

"N-no... I'm not." She mumbled grimly.

Hong Kong popped another one of Russia's small treats into his mouth. With half-lidded eyes, and a slightly full mouth, he replied with a blunt voice. "Can we make some breakfast already? We can discuss this ridiculous discourse about the Koreas while we're eating."

Malaysia's eyes lit up in excitement. "You're right!" Indonesia scrunched her face up and started l put a hand over her mouth to keep from snickering. "LETS MAKE NASI LEMAK!" She darted towards the kitchen with drool trailing down from the corners of her lips.

"NO IT'S TOO LATE FOR THAT! DIM SUM!" China protested, running after her.

Russia deadpanned, a small beads of sweat forming on the side of his forehead. "Everyone... this is my house." Seeing no use in stopping them, he sighed in defeat. "Oh well. It is better than processed burger meat." America stared at him with a mildly offended, putting a hand on his chest.

When Malaysia started grabbing the pots and China tried to cram in the limited space, a thought in the back of her mind told her to think of North Korea's well being. And she will.

As soon as she starts eating.

---

"Tada!" China and Malaysia presented the group with dim sum and nasi lemak, accompanied with many side dishes. There wasn't enough chairs for the table, so a everyone had to sit on the floor.

America took a bite out of a dumpling, then a spoonful of the nasi lemak's rice. His eyes beamed at the sudden burst of flavor in his mouth. "WOW! This is really good! I should get more restaurants that serves this stuff."

"Well Mr. America, I believe you are copying Malaysia's actions. Taking people's foods without their permission and claiming it's theirs." Indonesia noted mockingly, eating some of her own nasi lemak. Malaysia shot daggers at her.

"I didn't steal anything! A-anyways..." Malaysia stopped eating and face everyone, and raised an eyebrow. "Why are you all here anyway?"

"I'm here to save the Koreas!" America proclaimed loudly. China rolled his eyes.

"Well I'm here because they both terribly miss each other, yet they're too stubborn to admit their faults. It's getting pretty annoying, aru." China exhaled, setting down his chopsticks. "I don't like it when family fights."

Malaysia noticed a sudden silence fill the air as Macau, Hong Kong, and Taiwan glanced at each other for a moment. She decided to ignore it.

"I'm here to make North Korea happy." Indonesia closed her eyes, filling the silence in the room. "I still consider him my good friend."

A sharp knife just twisted itself into Malaysia for some reason and heat rising up to her cheeks. She felt jealous.

"I'm here to steal food." Hong Kong explained, taking another dumpling from the bowls. "Also this plan sounds incredibly strange, yet amusing. I had nothing better to do anyway."

Macau nodded. "Same here. Also, I feel like Taiwan only came to snapchat the events coming our way." A small yelp came from the girl, and Taiwan glared him down.

"Of course not! I'm here because I love my brothers dearly..." She put two hands over her heart and sighed whistfully. Hong Kong rolled his eyes and continued eating. "Don't you remember the good old days when we would all play together? I miss those days and I want to bring them back!"

"You pushed me into a river." Hong Kong stared at her with no emotion.

"... I'm here because this is my house." Russia said in a hushed voice. Then he closed his eyes and whined, "And I didn't invite any of you here! I just invited China! I DIDN'T KNOW THIS WOULD HAPPEN! I DIDN'T KNO-"

America hit him on the head with his chopsticks. "I'm trying to eat man."

Indonesia smirked, and giggled to herself. "Why Malaysia- you never explained why you came here."

Malaysia herself blushed and stammered out her words. "U-um well basically the s-same reason you're here. I c-consider North a good f-friend." Honestly, Malaysia didn't even know what she felt for the Korean anymore. She cared about him... but really how much did she?

Indonesia eyed her suspiciously, but then shrugged and continued eating. Malaysia let out a small, awkward laugh. Then continued speaking, but this time more thoroughly. "So America- what exactly did you plan to do to them? Last night you said something about locking them up together with hidden cameras? I mean, would that even be humane?"

"You were going to lock them up in a room together?!" China exclaimed, his eye twitching at the idea. "What room would it be? Yong Soo can easily break out of a room just by kicking the wall. And Hwan Soo knows how to pick locks with a toothpick. I don't think that could work at all."

"Ya know that one meeting room on the 4th floor? It has unbreakable glass for doors and you need to enter a code from the outside to get in. The walls are pretty thick- trust me. I tricked kicking them and they wouldn't even make a dent!" Everyone in the room stared at the American wide eyed. They knew his strength was rather unnatural, but even a strong nation like him couldn't even break it? America noticed everyone's appalled expression and laughed. "You guys seem pretty shocked."

"W-why would Japan even make a room like that?" Malaysia found herself questioning.

America shrugged. "They needed to make a room that could survive anything. So it could protect themselves, or something like that. Knowing Japan, what he manufactures has got to be something of high quality. Also we don't need to worry about the camera and microphone stuff, it's already installed inside. Plus we can get into the building in the evening and camp out there the rest of the night."

"And Japan let you do this?' China raised an eyebrow.

"I told him it was a top secret mission, so I needed access to the building today. He seemed pretty skeptical about the whole ordeal, but I got him to agree!" America put his hands on his cheeks and blushed. "I guess it was because he loved me so much."

China sipped his tea and shook his head. "Don't get too attached. He'll just stab you in the back- literally."

Taiwan coughed and hovered her fist over her mouth. "Anyways... what do we all need to do?"

Then America took a fairly large whiteboard and an Expo marker and set it in the middle of the group of people. He began drawing everyone's faces under three separate lists. This made everyone but Malaysia and China set down their food and lean over to examine what he was doing.

With a small 'ha!', America threw the Expo marker behind him and held up the board so it could be in everyone's eye sight.

"Alright everyone listen up! You too China and Malay- you're breaking the system." They both made an agitated sigh and reluctantly crawled over to see what was going on. America winked at the duo. "So here's the plan! Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Indonesia!" The three turned their attention to America's finger, which pointed to the words printed 'Technicians' on the whiteboard. "You get the lucky job of programming the security footage tonight. The regular security guard is gonna be off duty, so you all have to figure out how to turn on the machines. I think you all like tech stuff veryyyyy much."

Indonesia gave out a light chuckle, which made Malaysia cringe back at her politeness towards the American. "Well I do use Twitter more than anyone else- don't count India."

Hong Kong shrugged and looked over to Taiwan, who was holding a peace sign and smiling up at her phone. "Say cheese!" She quickly snapped a photo and turned to everyone else. "So what were we doing again?"

"I'll tell you later." America deadpanned at her. Then he looked at China, Russia, and Macau. He pointed at the word 'Suppliers'. "You three get the wonderful opportunity to put food supplies in the room for the Koreas so they won't starve. Also you gotta put food supplies for us too, since we don't wanna starve either. You all know how to cook, right?" Russia and Macau nodded while China gave the American a cheerful grin and thumbs up. Malaysia let out an offended gasp.

"Why didn't I get that part?" Malaysia cried. America only laughed at her.

"I got you and myself to do the most important and crucial thing for this mission." America smiled softly, and pointed at the word 'Lures'. "You and me will trick the Koreas into coming into the building. Does that sound good?" Then he pumped his fist in the air. "God, my plan is perfect! Everything afterwards is gonna be fighting, watching from the security tapes, eating dinner, someone watching the tapes, the Koreas crying it out, then in the morning they'll be one big happy family!"

"... Um, I don't think I should get Hwan Soo here." Malaysia told him sheepishly, scratching the back of her head. "You know what happened last night. I really don't think... I'm the right person for the job. I think that fight with him crossed lines."

"I thought you wanted to do this thing so you could become friends with him again," America pouted. This caught the others interest and they all watched from the sidelines- their heads turning to whoever spoke currently.

She shook her head. "I just wanted him to be happy. Maybe I shouldn't be so selfish to the point of asking for friendship again."

"But it's good to be selfish, ya know? Sometimes you deserve those things." America patted his chest, right in front of the heart. "I know I do."

"Hi um, I'm sorry to barge in. I shouldn't be impolite like this..." Indonesia laughed awkwardly. She turned her head to Malaysia. "I don't know what happened between you and North, but don't think like that Damia. Being alone is not fun. Just go talk to him and fix whatever you messed up, okay?" She gave out a light, heartfelt smile. "You shouldn't mess up a relationship just because of one dumb fight. We fight all the time, yet we still love each other."

"She's right, aru." China agreed, crossing his arms. "Hwan Soo gets really messed up in the head over that stuff. Please take the responsibility and don't ignore his or your feelings. It'll work out in the end!"

Everyone in the room murmured with hushed, low voices. They all stood with Indonesia and China's words. Malaysia sighed.

"You're all right... I'll phone him later." Then everyone cheered in celebration.

"OKAY! Now we got the heavy stuff covered," America licked his lips, his eyes aiming towards the left over nasi lemak. He carefully reached for the food at a steady pace. "We can finally eat in peac-"

Malaysia hit the American's hand with her chopsticks bluntly and gave him a blank stare. "No. I'm still a bit mad over the fruits you stole," America laughed uncomfortably as Malaysia leaned towards the steaming hot food, putting it onto her dish. She looked back up at him desperately. "Please... just let me have this."

While she was grateful that the American opened her eyes towards her relationship with North Korea, but she wasn't going to let him take any more of her precious food.

---

After eating brunch, the large group decided to check out the 'special room' America described. They all went back to the building where they held most of their meetings, and went on the fourth floor.

Malaysia should've known she should've told them to go in the elevator in two groups, because in the end, they all just went inside into one big pile. It was extremely cramped and stuffy. While they all squeezed inside the elevator, America asked politely (for once in his life) that China should press the button to go on the next floor. However, the elderly nation refused.

"That is a death number! I will not touch it or I'll die- FOR REAL!" China screeched. Russia sighed, and pressed the button for him.

The small, compact room went quiet. A pregnant silence seemed to be extremely common for Malaysia. Almost too common. Her head was tucked under Indonesia's neck, and Macau awkwardly held his arm over the duo to not crush them. It was unpleasant for everyone.

Finally, it ended when they arrived on the fourth floor. They all toppled onto each other when they came out of the compartment. Malaysia groaned and rubbed her neck, as it had gotten sore from staying in that uncomfortable position for too long. Deep down, in the back of her head, that same annoying voice who always taunted her came back to say one more thing.

'You liked it better if you were laying on Hwan Soo.'

She hit her head with a clenched fist. "Not now brain- I need to do things."

Russia eyed her from the distance and tilted his head. "Miss Malaysia? Aren't you going to come in already?" She then noticed everyone had already gotten into the other room, and blushed in response. Malaysia walked over to Russia and strolled with him to the room.

She examined the room's content. There was a small stove that sat on a long, grand table. Many chairs, here and there. A small fridge, a couple potted plants, and some cabinets to hod files. It looked like an ordinary office room, but it was bigger. The only thing that really made it stand out was the giant glass wall that separated what was outside or inside the room with a small code to get in.

Russia went away from Malaysia to open one of the cabinets drawers. It slid open and Russia flipped through a file before sighing. He turned to America and let out a low snicker.

"This meeting room is to think of new Hatsune Miku material? Who is she?" Russia asked. America sweat dropped and Malaysia gaped from shock.

"Erm... a very popular idol in Japan. Yes, very." America chuckled.

"I... thought it would be something more important. Like a meeting room held to prevent tsunami's from damaging towns or to use solar energy and stuff... not trying to advertise Hatsune Miku..." Malaysia felt like she lost a piece of respect for the great representative of Japan.

America shrugged, "Japan tries to make himself cooler then he really is."

"... Oh my Allah," She whispered under her breath. Any adiration she had for Japan was gone in an instant.

Just as she was going to cry from despair, Macau walked over to give out some news.

"Well with the exception of a couple Japanese soft drinks and water in there; there isn't really anything they could eat in here. Hey Russia!" He called out. The said man turned back and waved at him. Macau waved back, "We need to go to the store to buy things for them to eat. China will help us out." This seemed to excite the Russian, as he dropped the shameful files to the ground and rushed over to him.

He clapped his hands together. "We shall go together like one big, happy family, da?"

"We aren't family." Macau reminded him. "It's not like China and you are together, right?"

"... That's not what he said last night." Russia said under his breath. Before he could react, Russia went over to China and told him to go to the Japanese market to buy food. The two got out the door before Macau, who tried trailing behind them.

Malaysia put her hand out, "Wait Macau!" He stopped in his trance to glance back at her. "... Why did you even agree to such an odd plan? You never gave out a clear answer,"

He let out a gentle smile and gave her a peace sign. "It'll be fun. After all- it's joke." He said the last part in clear English, with a slight American accent.

And again, the eastern Asian's never seem to fail in leaving her speechless. She was at lost for words.

Taiwan came back giddily and looked around the room. "Hey- where's Russia, teacher, and Macau?" Malaysia just let her hair cast a shadow over her eyes and as her head bent towards the ground. She didn't know how to respond.

"They went out to get food." America explained. "By the way, give me a status report. STAT!" Taiwan 'ohhh'ed before putting her hands on her hips.

"Well, we're getting the thing up and running. I'm trying to translate Japanese to Leon and Indonesia, but they refused to even let me help! Indonesia says she got all the information she needs from anime, and Leon said he just doesn't like me." Malaysia couldn't help but let out a laugh. It seemed so Indonesia-like of her to do that. "So they don't know how to run the cameras or microphones. At all."

"Tell them to hurry up and suck it up, go, go, go!" America said authoritatively, slapping his hand over his other over, and over. Taiwan saluted him in response.

"Aye, aye, captain!" Then she ran over to the other room on the other side of the building, which contained a stubborn Indonesia and a tired Hong Kong.

As they went off, America glanced towards Malaysia, who averted her gaze towards the ground. He gave her a soft smile, "I think it's time for you to do your own job now. You shouldn't let everyone do the work you know."

Her hand made a small salute, which wasn't as orderly and neat as Taiwan's. It was more of a simple gesture. "Leave it to me, boss."

Malaysia walked out of the room in front of the glass door. She took out her phone and scrolled down until she found North Korea in one of her emergency contacts. She pressed the icons and lifted the speaker towards her ear.

'Please pick up...'

---

North Korea was eating the leftover satay Malaysia had given him when his phone rang. He held the kabob still between his teeth as he reached for his phone. He looked at the caller ID to see it was Malaysia herself. The stick of meat fell out of his mouth in shock.

"W-what the fuck?" He found himself questioning. Why was she calling him? To tell him how much of a piece of shit he was to her? To tell him that he's worthless and she doesn't like him anymore? No, no... she wasn't like that at all... But his anxiety was telling him she would.

He decided to leave the phone and ignore it. She might give up and stop trying to call him for whatever reason she may have.

But she didn't stop. After it went to voicemail about several times, North Korea was starting to get irritated by how persistent she was becoming. He caved in to her advances and gave her what Malaysia wanted; for him to pick up the damn phone.

He hesitatingly pressed the icon to accept the call, and slowly held it towards his ear. "H-hello?"

"Hi Hwan Soo. Can you please explain to me why you missed several of my calls?"

Even though she was on the other line, he could tell by her tone that she was extremely disappointed in him.

"Uh- I was asleep?" North Korea stammered, his voice cracking at the end. This had to be a good lie, right?

"Okay... sounds fake but okay..."

Now North Korea was really starting to regret picking up the phone. It made him feel even more horrible about himself then he already did. Barely a minute has went by and he was already on the edge of his seat in anticipation, waiting for what she could say next. He could hear his heart beat faster by the second, just by her calm words.

He cleared his throat before speaking in a straightforward voice. "W-what do you want?"

"Honestly, I just wanted to apologize. Last night I think we left it on an awkward note."

North Korea froze, trying to register the words pouring from the speaker. His only response was to clutch the phone tighter and take in small, deep breaths.

"Is this some kind of joke?" He inquired quietly.

"What-? It isn't, I'll assure you, la. I was really pushy last night and I wanted to apologize... in person. It seems more real that way."

"How could you feel sorry over worthless trash like me? I should mean nothing to you right now, so I don't see the point in trying to fix anything last night. I..." Honestly, he was at loss for words. Some small part of him wanted to go and meet her again, but another told him she'll just be like everyone else. They'll use and leave him for sure.

However, Malaysia didn't seem to think that way at all.

"I wish I could slap you right now."

He got startled immediately. "Huh? Why is that?"

"You aren't trash. You're my precious friend, and I want to make it up to you. Maybe we might both be at fault for fighting. I just want to clear up some... misunderstandings, aha. I wouldn't throw what we have just like that. Do you think I'm that kind of person?"

A sudden guilt rose from him. There was no way she could be an asshole like that. Honestly, what was he thinking? "No... okay maybe I did." He inhaled, before swallowing up any egotistic features from himself. "I'm... sorry. For everything really." A small chuckle came from the other line.

"I'm sorry too. Do you want to meet up later in a couple hours? I want to talk to you."

"Uh, why meet up?"

"I just kinda want to make it up to you. I have a special surprise for you! Ehe..."

He noted that the suspicion in her words was just probably her trying to keep this 'special surprise' a secret. North Korea really didn't need to get paranoid over something like this, so his heart rate started to calm down.

"Oh I get it now. When and where do you want to meet up?"

"In front of the meeting room building at 7:20 pm. No more, and no less. Got it?"

"Yes I got it."

"Okay good. See you there."

"See you later too..." And North Korea ended the call. He slammed his head on the table and sighed, trying to figure out why he had to come so late. Why the meeting building? Why so late at night? And why did she want to make it up to him?

There were too many questions left unanswered. So he picked up the satay from earlier that he dropped on the table, and took a bite out of it. It was cold.

---

She put the phone down and couldn't help but smile to herself. It looks like North Korea still wanted her in his life. Malaysia felt like she really was overreacting about everything, and now she could relax again. She calmly walked into the room and sat on one of the chairs. Then she let her arms rest on the table with her head on top.

As she was about to drift away into sleep, an annoying voice woke her up.

"Oi! Malaysia! How'd it go?" America asked. She groaned as she lifted her head up.

"It's going fine. Hwan Soo will come at around seven-twenty. What about South?"

"I told him to come around seven. Hopefully they won't run into each other." America then let his hands rest on his hips. "But it'll work out in the end! By the way, we're gonna be lounging around the security room. I already set up sleeping bags and pillows, since I'm such an awesome hero!"

"So we're going to watch them through the cameras?"

America simply waved his hand at her. "Of course. We're going to take shifts though, since it's going to be from night to morning. Does that sound good? Now you can finally rest for a couple hours!" He patted her head gently. "You can nap for now."

"Thank Allah..." She said to herself with an exasperated sigh. Malaysia finally drifted off into a deep slumber.

It seemed like it was only a short period of time passed by. To her, it had only been a few minutes since she was awake. But Malaysia couldn't shake off the feeling that someone was trying to bring her back into conscious. Someone was clearly shaking her shoulder, she thought.

Before her mind could register it, she hazily opened her eyes to see captivating hazel brown eyes.

"-Hello? Malaysia? Can you tell me what's going on here?" The person said.

She was still half-asleep, so she couldn't listen clearly. Malaysia was too absorbed into her own little world at the moment. In the small amount of time she had, she dreamt of food and North Korea. Ah he was still eating the snacks she gave him. He looked so cute... so precious...

"Malaysia!"

She flinched at the sound of her name, finally giving into reality. Malaysia quickly turned around and put her hands over her ears. "You're very noisy."

"Well yeah, you wouldn't wake up. I thought you were dead."

And finally, she opened her eyes to see the culprit who ruined her perfect dream world.

South Korea gave her a curious, perplexed gaze. His eyes were wide, and his hands were tucked behind his back. It was as if he wanted to ask her something, but was waiting for her to wake up.

America walked into the room and waved at them both. "Ah Malaysia, you're finally awake. Also sup Yong Soo," America held out his hand for a high five, which was dismissed by South Korea shaking his head.

"Not the time. Now why am I here? You promised me Japan's biggest secret so I could use it for blackmail Alfred!" He pouted, clasping his hands together. "You're such a liar!"

"Nah, it will be revealed in time." America snickered, putting a hand over his mouth.

"... You seem too suspicious today." South Korea observed, putting a hand under his chin.

Malaysia blanked out, as she didn't know what to do. Her eyes desperately wandered around the room, trying to find something useful. She glanced up at the clock and noticed it read "7:31 pm". This made her pale immediately, putting his face in her hands. She started to shake fearfully, remembering what she had forgotten.

South Korea noticed her bewildered expression and looked back at her. "Malaysia? You alright? Wait- WHY IS SHE HERE?!" He started pounding his fists on America's shoulder, which only gave him a taunting laugh. The situation only got crazier once China, Russia, and Macau came inside to drop off food supplies. South Korea was defiantly confused. His mind only got more muddled when Indonesia, Taiwan, and Hong Kong walked in the room.

Malaysia used this to her advantage. As the disoriented Korean was screeching at everyone, she snuck outside and made a run for the elevator. As soon as she got in and out, she ran towards the front entrance, silently praying that North Korea was still there.

And he was.

North Korea stood on a nearby bench, looking down at his cell phone. He winced and closed his eyes, putting the phone back in his pocket. The air was getting colder by the minute. As soon as he was about to stand up, he heard a shout.

"WAIT! HWAN SOO!" The voice calls out.

He immediately turns around to see Malaysia running towards him. She stops in his tracks and collapsed on her knees to the floor, panting as she gripped the floor for support. North Korea sends her and odd look, but goes on his own knees down to her level. He lend his hand towards her.

"I um- do you need to rest?"

She shook her head and continued to regain her breath. North Korea pulled his hand away from hers as he watched her wheeze, unsure of what to do. After a while, she finally calmed down. They both stood up and dusted themselves off.

Malaysia made eye contact with North Korea, who showed concern after the whole ordeal. His eyes were similar, but the meaning behind them were much different from South Korea's, she thought to herself. His eyes weren't as bright as his twin's, but it had a more gentle touch to them. She liked this calm side of North Korea's, and not the crazy; eccentric one she saw in meetings. Not the extremely bitter mask he always put up. Just... himself.

Suddenly, she slapped her forehead. Malaysia made him wait for her.

She bowed down and cried. "I'm so sorry for making you wait out here, I was so rude to you. I am so sorry!"

He gestured his hands sheepishly at her. "It doesn't matter! I shouldn't have expected anything from you at all,"

"... I made you manipulate yourself into thinking those awful things. I'm so horrible," She deadpanned to herself dramatically, looking away from the anxious Korean. "I am truly sorry..."

"It's fine," North Korea assured her, starting to panic frantically. "I'm fine! A-and you should be too."

"Oh I know. I was just teasing you," Malaysia shrugged, earning another cry from him. She chuckled, "I suppose I was being too harsh on you, la."

"You think?" He sighed. "By the way, what are we doing out here? Aren't you getting cold?"

Another realization struck her like a lightning bolt; she forgot about the plan... again.

"Oh yes, I forgot, haha." Malaysia faked laughed, putting her hands on her hips. "Well... shall we go inside, shall we?"

"You said shall two times." North Korea mused to himself, but said nothing more. Malaysia anxiously led him into the building and onto the elevator. She was scared of what might happen once he saw his own brother. Being locked in a room with someone you used to, and still deeply cared for. If this happened to her, she probably would've ripped the captivator to shreds.

Malaysia felt herself become quiet in the silent elevator. North Korea noticed this was not their usual comfortable silence, and asked what was wrong.

She shook her head. "It's nothing important, you see. I'm just worried about you."

This comment made North Korea's cheeks tint red as he looked away. "Oh. I see. You really don't need to worry about someone like me, but I appreciate that."

The door slide open and they walked out. He defiantly noticed something was wrong. Malaysia looked over the edge instead of her usual calm demeanor, and it made him down right paranoid.

"Malaysia are you afraid of something?" She didn't turn back as she led him to an odd glass door. He raised an eyebrow as her hand gripped his own even tighter. "What wron-"

North Korea stood in front of the doorway, right in front of South Korea.

As if time stood still, they could only hear each others presence, despite the huge commotion in the room. They tuned out the rest of the world and everything else became a blur. It seemed like the only thing that mattered in their eyes was each other.

"Fancy meeting you South." North Korea greeted statically, averted his gaze towards the ground.

"What are you doing here?" South Korea inquired. The room went quiet.

Suddenly everyone rushed out the door. Malaysia got the gist of what was going on. After everyone went out besides South Korea, she used North's confusion to push him into the room. He collided with South, and they both fell to the floor with a thud.

America quickly slammed the door and put in the pass code.

Both Koreas got up and pounded their fists to the glass wall as everyone stared at them dumbfoundedly.

"YO WHAT THE HELL?!" South Korea cried.

"SHUT THE FUCK UP SOUTH! What is the meaning of this you capitalist pig?!" North Korea glared at the American.

America laughed. "You guys need to work out your feelings. Didn't Malaysia already tell you this?"

"Wait.. YOU KNEW ABOUT THIS?!" South Korea pointed an accusing finger at his twin. North Korea ignored this and gave a pleading look to Malaysia. It almost made her feel guilty. It made her extremely guilty...

Until Indonesia wrapped one arm around her waist and used her other hand to cover her eyes. She shook her head at North Korea.

"You mustn't take advantage of people's feelings,"

"We'll let you out of this room once you make up with each other," America smiled at them. The two only glared at him.

"Alfred-oppa... I thought we were friends." South Korea gave out a dramatic sob, scratching the glass door. North Korea cringed at the plead his own flesh and blood told to his hated enemy. And once again, America only laughed at his pathetic attempts to convince him to get out.

Suddenly, China and Russia went up to the twin brothers and pushed America out of the way. China put his hands on his hips, and almost glared at the two. "Aiyaa, you're suppose to be brothers! What's so bad about being together? I remember you guys wouldn't stop clinging onto each other when you were kids." He frowned. North and South's face went red from embarrassment, their lips pressed together into a bashful frown.

Russia clapped his hands together. "It would be hypocritical for me to say siblings should get along, as of right now my relationship with my sisters is truly... depressing. But I believe you two shouldn't make the same mistakes I made, and you'll get along just fine. Love always finds a way."

Taiwan waved at the two, "We'll be in the security room if you need us! But don't even try to call us, I took your phones while you weren't looking." North Korea gave a look to his brother, and they both started shuffling around their pockets to find their own cells. Instead, they were empty handed. Taiwan held both of the phones in her hands. "This is fine!"

"We'll be leaving now." Macau gave them a mischievous grin. "Play nicely, will you?" Indonesia winked at them.

The Korean brothers lost all hope in everyone at the moment. They were going to die in a room... with each other.

As everyone else was walking away, Hong Kong was one of the slowest ones. This sparked an idea in South Korea's head.

"Heeeey Leon." He whispered. The teen turned around with his usual half-lidded eyes. "Do you know the code to that thing?" South Korea pointed at the pass code lock, attached to the doorway. Hong Kong nodded. "Will you open the door for your favorite brother? I can buy you as much fireworks as you want." This idea appealed to Hong Kong, as his hand slowly made its way towards the pass code.

"Yes Hong Kong," North Korea encouraged. "Do something useful for once in your life." His hand was so close to touching the panel. "Almost... ther-"

Macau stopped Hong Kong from doing anything rash by pulling him back in a protective embrace. He shook his head at the Koreans. "You two used to be so cool back in the day." Then he left, with them childishly pounding on the door.

They went into the security room and shut the door behind them, earning a cheer from America.

"Okay! We're so good today! GO TEAM!" America proudly motivated.

"... So is there anything else that needs to be done?" Russia inquired shyly, twiddling his thumbs together. America pointed his finger in the air.

"Yes. And that is dinner. Do we have anything to eat? I'm starving!"

"I got a pretty big pot we can use for hot pot." China held it up for everyone to see. He set it down to the side and turned to Taiwan. "By the way, how are Yong Soo and Hwan Soo taking it?"

Taiwan looked on the monitor and blinked a few times before answering. "Umm... they're running around the room screaming."

Malaysia sighed as Indonesia patted her back. "I feel so guilty... Are you sure this plan will work, America?"

"Of course! It helped me solve some... pretty sad issues with Mattie." America crossed his arms and gazed up to the ceiling in nostalgia. "Ah... he was ignoring me for no good reason so the Allies locked us in a room together. By the end of it, we were crying and hugging it out." Malaysia turned to China and Russia and raised an eyebrow.

"... You actually did that?" She asked eerily.

"Yeah. They were being stubborn about their feelings, so we thought it'll help them." China explained, opening bottled water and pouring it into the stove pot. "Remember how funny that was, Ivan?"

"Da. It was hilarious," He chuckled.

Malaysia stared at the floor, wondering if North Korea was really okay. She hoped this was for the best.

---

North Korea was pacing around the room while his counterpart was kicking the wall, not even making a dent on it. Suddenly, North groaned and pointed at South Korea accusingly.

"This is your fault!" He sneered.

South Korea stopped kicking the wall and turned to his brother. "How is it my fault?"

"I don't know! EVERYTHING IS YOUR FAULT!" North Korea screeched, stomping his foot onto the ground. He ran his hand through his soft, dark locks. "What am I going to tell Kim Jong crybab- I mean dear leader? He's going to kill me!" South Korea scoffed at him.

"Wow, North. How mature of you," He rolled his eyes, sarcasm flicking off his tongue.

North Korea shot daggers at him, "Hey, since when did you learn how to talk like that? Was it that stupid yankee?"

"Oh I dunno," South Korea lifted his elbow onto his other forearm arm. "Maybe when you started that nuclear stuff, I had to learn how to defend myself somehow." North Korea only glared at him and moaned loudly again. He dramatically fell, face planting onto the floor. Though he didn't exactly care about the pain. It was his brother he was so annoyed by.

"I can't believe I'm stuck here with you." North Korea whined, his face fuming red with anger.

South Korea lifted his arms out in the air and gave him a threatening look. "Well I guess the best thing to do is to just wait here in silence, never speaking to each other ever again!"

"I would love that, thank you!"

"You're welcome!" At South's words, North Korea sat on the floor and stuck his tongue at him. He crossed his arms and leaned against the wall to support himself. South Korea childishly stomped his foot on the ground, but said nothing more. North's eyes began to droop and felt himself get tired from the argument. He didn't know why, but he suddenly decided to sleep a peaceful slumber. Maybe staying up all night from paranoia wasn't... the best thing to do.

After a while, about two hours later, North Korea heard the sizzling of a pot and the sound of eating. He looked up reluctantly to see South Korea eating Korean barbecue. He licked his lips and watched the other closely.

It took a bit but South Korea finally caught on, and saw his older brother's eyes fixated on the cooked meat.

"... When did you make that?" North Korea questioned, raising an eyebrow.

"While you were sleeping, or whatever you were doing, I got hungry. Thanks for helping me prepare this, by the way. It's not like you could do any better," He muttered the last part softly to himself, hoping the other wouldn't hear. North Korea did, but chose to ignore the comment as he stared at the dish, like a predator on its prey.

Taking pity on him, South Korea sighed. "Do you want some?"

"NO!" North Korea refused.

"You can't starve to death. C'mon, there's enough for both of us," He offered, but stopped himself short. South Korea didn't want to act so kind to him, after everything they went through. But it did seem almost cruel to not give him anything to eat. North Korea crawled over to the table and peeked his head on the surface. South Korea poked his nose with the blunt end of his chopsticks. "C'mon... we even got kimchi."

This sealed the deal. North Korea took another plate and chopsticks and began eating. He leaned his head down, but his bangs kept falling into his eyes. He huffed in annoyance and finally tucked it behind his ear. What was beneath it was an strange, abnormal scar.

South Korea himself was speechless. He tilted his head to the side as North Korea picked off some meat from the pan with his chopsticks, unaware of his gaping mouth.

"... Where did you get that scar?" He found himself asking.

North Korea stopped eating for a moment.

"Japanese occupation." He answered bluntly, continuing to eat.

South Korea couldn't shake off the feeling that something was horrible wrong with that scar. "... I asked what happened- not when it happened, North. What happened?"

"Geez stop being so pushy and let me eat-" South Korea immediately turned off the stove. The meat stopped cooking, which only made North Korea look back up at him cautiously. South was incredibly serious. You could see the flare, the intense significant look in his eyes. He wasn't going to take no for an answer.

"... I'm asking a question here... how come I didn't know this?" His expression suddenly became hurt. "I thought you would at least tell me,"

North Korea set his chopsticks aside and closed his eyes, "I didn't want to tell you. I didn't feel like I really needed to anyway." He averted his gaze towards the side. "I pissed Japan off once time. His sword was in his hands, and I was an idiot. I didn't want to worry you about myself since you were already so paranoid during that time."

"Well, that does make since." South Korea murmured quietly to himself. Then he lifted his head back up, "Is that why you always stayed with Japan then?"

"... No." This answer confused South as North Korea turned the stove back on to finish his meal.

"What do you mean no?" His twin asked. "Why did you even stay with him back then?"

"It's not important." North Korea's bang were cast over his eyes, making a dark shadow. He grabbed his chopsticks towards the grill, "Now if you can just let me eat-"

"You know, the others got us trapped in here to learn about each other. And I always wondered... what exactly happened between you and Japan?" South Korea asked, looking at his brother with half-lidded eyes. "Why did you never tell me what happened? I always wanted to know... I always needed to know... it's a little unfair Malaysia already figured it out before me."

"Shut up."

"But why do you trust her more than me? Why can't you-"

"Shut up."

South Korea stopped himself as North Korea turned off the stove, the meat was burned charcoal black. His counterpart sighed as he stood up from the table, gripping the surfaces's wooden edges. South Korea quietly sat in his own chair, staring off to the side.

"You won't tell me... huh."

"If you ever found out the truth... I bet you'd hate me even more," North Korea whispered bitterly to himself. "You probably wouldn't even look at me in the same way ever again."

"I... I don't care!" His twin slammed his hands on the table and stood up himself. "But I don't deserve to be left in the dark! You hurt me and left me, without even explaining why! I want to know! I deserve to know..." South Korea slipped his hands off the table and let them fall to his side. "... Do you really hate me that much? You don't even want me to know why you hate me...?"

A small croak was held in his throat, and North Korea coughed to clear it up. A year ago, he would've never done this. But meeting someone... made him muster up the confidence to tell him how he really felt.

"... Look I... don't really hate you..." North Korea confessed. South Korea stared at him flabbergasted. "I'm stubborn... if not a lot more stubborn than you. I think today I'm finally ready to tell you... these things."

South Korea's ears perked up. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. he could finally know the reason why things between them got so hard. It almost made him tear up, which he quickly wiped away with the edge of his oversized sleeve.

"Okay. Do you want me to start off to make it easier for you?" South asked. North Korea nodded. "Good. Because I'm going to need a white board first." South Korea scanned the room and found a giant whiteboard, probably something America left behind by accident. He got one of the markers and started drawing a huge timeline.

When he was finished, South Korea stepped back and set it on its own podium. He pointed his finger at the first picture, which was the Koreas as children. "You see here, we have two kids with bright, beautiful futures. They depended on each other. You were the shy, quiet, anti-social twin while I was the awesome fun one. We had a good life." Then his eyes darkened as he pointed at the next drawing, which was Japan terrorizing the twins. "Then Japan comes along and screws everything up. One of our childhood best friend's, Japan himself, took everything about ourselves away! Suddenly you leave me alone during this tragic time, no where to be seen!"

"You did see me a handful of times though,"

"But not enough!" Then he landed a finger on the picture of Russia and North himself. "Then we get separated, you invade me, war stuff, and now it's present day! That's the entire timeline with a non bias view."

North Korea rolled his eyes, "Non bias, huh?"

South Korea put his hand on his chest, "Do you think innocent, little me would do anything wrong? Ever?"

"Yes."

"But you should know how I felt back then, at the very least!" South Korea ignored him, glaring at him with venomous eyes. "You left me, and didn't bother asking how I felt. Then you suddenly invade me out of no where. And you didn't..." His expression softened into a mellow, hurt look. "It's like you didn't even cared about how I felt..."

"So you're going to shift all the blame on me?" North Korea inquired. "What about how I felt about everything that has happened? Do you think I wouldn't be hurt as well?"

"You were the one to ignore me and push me away! How is it not your fault?"

He stared up at him silently with a watchful gaze, tapping his finger on the edge of his sleeve. After a long examination, he sighed. "I suppose your point is valid. But you have the wrong idea. You really don't know what happened, do you?"

"I know... enough." South Korea rubbed his arm with an uncomfortable expression. "Is there something you haven't told me?"

North Korea shifted his gaze towards the ground, and let his hand fall next to his hip. "Yes. A lot. I guess... I could tell you now?"

"That..." South Korea smiled at him weakly. "That would mean a lot to me." North Korea sighed and laid his hand on his cheek, with an elbow on his knee to keep himself from falling.

"Whatever. Let's just get on with it.

...

He nervously tugged onto his long braid as Japan examined him from a chair in the corner of the room. Japan earlier had forcefully tugged onto the Korean's collar and pushed him into his own room, making North stumble onto his bed. North Korea felt Japan's dark, hollow gaze pierce through his exterior. He felt himself jump up a bit as Japan stood up from the seat, walking around the anxious, timid Korean.

"W-what do you want?" North Korea asked, gripping his hold onto his hair even tighter. Japan's eyes bore into his own. He gulped as Japan finally stopped in front of him, lifting his chin with his own gloved hands. North Korea quickly turned away from the action, closing his eyes. "You already took over my country, took our family away, now what are you going to do?" He looked up to give him venomous eyes.

Japan tilted his head towards the side, in an almost seemingly calm action. "What do I want? You think I had some motive with you, Hwan Soo? My... you are quite intelligent, aren't you?"

"Tell me what you're going to do Japan! Why would you hurt me like this? I thought we were friends..." He looked away, remembering all the fun times they had. Japan lifted his hands towards him and caressed his cheeks with a gentle hold.

"We are friends. We'll always be friends. But you never seemed to notice... how I always loved you more than that." A small chill crept up North Korea's spine as Japan petted his cheek softly. "Although your brother was annoying at times, I cared for him. I guess what I'm trying to tell you is I wanted you both to myself, and only myself. Not to Yao, not to Joseon. And I would do whatever it took to get to you."

"You're insane. You're not who I grew up with." North Korea spat, shooing Japan's affectionate motions from him. "You can't make someone love you like that. Japan, you should know this by now." His facial expression softened. "I don't even care about you anymore..."

Japan didn't like this answer. He slapped his face with fire burning furiously in his eyes.

North Korea touched the newly formed bruise on his cheek, staring up at Japan in shock. "J-japan-"

"You're wrong. You will love me, and you have to." Japan clasped his hands together and averted his eyes towards the wall. "I mean, it's the only way of protecting your brother."

"W-what do you mean by that?"

A soft, haunting laugh came from the other. Japan wiped an invisible tear off his eye, and held his chest with his other hand. "I guess you aren't intelligent enough to figure it out. Well, you do love Yong Soo, right?"

"More than anything in this entire world," North Korea sneered at him. Japan dismissed him by waving his hand.

"And you would do anything to protect him, right?"

"Of course! Whatever it may be, I'll keep him from harm. He's all I have... And he's all I ever needed. During this horrible period of time, I'm gonna have to protect him even harder than before. I'll never let you or anyone else on this planet take him away from me. Never." He scoffed at him bitterly. "So yes, I do love him. What are you trying to say here?"

Japan starting staring at his fingernails, as if he was bored by North Korea's love for his brother. "What if I broke your brother?"

"What?"

"I would morph his personality that cannot be fixed or be reversed. I'm a powerful, rich empire. I can do whatever I want to my conquered lands. The United Nations don't care about you or your people at all, so don't bother thinking they're going to save you." North Korea gritted his teeth and clenched his hanbok tighter. "You're both twins, so it could be easy for me to replace you with him. Imagine your brother, paranoid and freighted- hating his brother because he was too much of a coward to try and save him. At every sound he hears, it'll make him wither and cry. Would that be protecting him, or just yourself?"

"NO!" He shouted, standing up from his spot on the bed. North Korea stared him down angrily, "You just try and do that to him-!"

"I told you already, no one cares." Japan shifted his gaze towards the hem of the hanbok, tugging it with his hand. "What do you say, Hwan Soo? I'll do whatever I want with you, and I'll leave your brother alone."

North Korea glared at him, not even putting it into thought first. His brother will always, and forever be, his number one priority. "I'll do it. What are you going to make me do? Cook your meals, fan you?"

The other stood silently, the mysterious glint in his eyes confused North Korea. He didn't understand. "You're very innocent, aren't you?" He took a step in, knocking North Korea onto the bed with him on top. Japan's arms locked North Korea's body in the middle. His eyes bore into the other's. Now, his blank eyes had a dark meaning behind them. It was corrupt and twisted, cold and bleak.

His eyes widened as his lips trembled. North Korea reached his hand out, but Japan pinned it to the side. He felt tears prickle the corner of his eyes, "N-no way... you wouldn't do this... you wouldn't..." Japan wiped them away with his thumb, showing what he truly meant.

"Do you want me to break your brother instead?"

"No!" Japan held the same emotionless, still expression on his face. Almost as if nothing he did was wrong.

"Well okay, let's get started." He started pulling the Korean's clothing, this time letting Japan do away with him.

North Korea never felt more disgusted in his entire life.

...

He would often have to stay in Japan's room, to afraid to go out. Sometimes he would have to maid with Japan, cleaning his house and cooking his meals. He no longer had the will to speak his own, beloved language. Japan had taken everything from him. His pride and dignity, his purity, and even his own brother.

"Hyung-nim let me in!" North Korea winced as his twin pounded on the other side door. He let himself crept the sliding door open, so only his eyes could be in view. A sigh escaped his lips as he saw South Korea, perfectly unharmed. The younger's eyes fell towards the dark, purple bruises around his collarbone and legs. "Where did you get those bruises? Did Japan hurt-"

"No," He answered quickly. "I fell down the hallway because I'm a dumb clutz. Now what are you doing here?"

"I-it's scary in Seoul, hyung-nim. The soldiers scream at me and threaten to take me away if I forget to speak even just one word of Japanese." He stomped his foot angrily on the ground. "I hate Japan! I HATE JAPAN!"

"SHHH-!" North Korea darted his eyes away from him, worried someone might've over heard. "Be quiet!"

"Please come back home, I need you..." South Korea begged. North Korea wanted so desperately to hold him, and tell him everything was going to be alright even when it wasn't. He wanted to coo his twin to sleep, and watch the moon fall during the night. North Korea wished he could live in happiness again, free from harm. He wanted it again so badly...

But it can't be that way anymore.

"No. Go away." North Korea responded coldly. South Korea's eyes widened as tears started forming in his eyes. The other quickly shut the door, trying to cover his ears to pretend he couldn't hear his wailing.

...

Snip, snip, snip.

A part of his hair curled over the mark that was struck onto his forehead. Scars can't heal, and neither can he.

Snip, snip, snip.

The leftover hair fell onto the ground. North Korea had taken half of one side of his bangs, and cut it off so no one could see the humiliating scar on his forehead. Why did he have to rebel against Japan like that? Why didn't he stop himself from yelling at the Japanese man, screaming for freedom and his brother back.

Japan struck him- slicing apart of his skin in the process. It created a long trail of blood, dropping into his eye. But Japan didn't care. Japan walked away, he didn't care. He didn't care, he didn't care at all. But North Korea didn't thought it mattered, as long as his precious little brother was safe. No one else mattered other than him. Nothing. No one else. He is all he has left of his sanity.

He was fine, he was fine, he was fine.

Snip, snip, snip.

...

"We're free Yong Soo!" North Korea gasped, tears prickling at the corners of his eyes. He was finally out of Japan's control- he was finally able to be with his brother again! North Korea hugged his brother tightly. The other made no move for a second, almost hesitating. But pushed him away immediately. "... Yong Soo?"

"I-i'm not feeling good Hyung-nim." South Korea laughed sheepishly, stepping back. His brother raised an eyebrow, but didn't ask any more of it.

A sudden long shadow hovered over the two. They turned and looked up to see someone with bright, condescending lilac purple eyes. He waved at them, his mouth was covered by a large, pale colored scarf. His nose peeked from the top of the cloth. North Korea gulped. He was intimidating, tall, and probably an incredibly powerful country. North Korea stretched his arms out of cover his younger brother protectively.

"Hello you two. How would you like to join me..." He reached his hand out towards them, but another shadow appeared. America's glasses glinted and slapped the gesture away. He shook his head at the other.

"Russia... we talked about this." The two Koreas looked at each other from the corner of their eye. What was going on? "We need to take them separately."

They widened their eyes in horror as their shadows got darker, and darker, and... darker...

...

"Did Yong Soo respond to my letter?" North Korea tilted his head, repeating the same question he asked numerous times. Russia finally turned around, and gave him a docile like smile.

"Nyet. I guess he is forgetting about you. Oops! I didn't mean to say that out loud." He giggled, cover his mouth with his gloved hand. North Korea clutched the edge of his braid even tighter, his eyes wincing at the very thought. Russia 'tsk' with his tongue. "Aww... you are quite sensitive. Don't worry, I'll help you become stronger, and your brother will surely need you then."

"R-really!"

"Da, you're so sad that I must help you. It almost sickens me how dependent you are on that boy, he looks quite annoying."

"Thank you Russia! I owe you so much..." North Korea's knees fell weak as it landed on the floor.

Russia felt something almost slip out of his coat pocket. Before North could see, he quickly placed it back in and chuckled. "Now Korea, go away and cut off that stupid braid of yours. I need to finish some things." North Korea nodded and dusted himself of the floor, walking out of the room. When the door clicked shut behind the Korean, Russia took out what was in his pocket.

"Thank goodness he didn't see this... otherwise he wouldn't fall into my plans so easily." He huffed, crumpling the letter. Russia ripped it to shreds, not a single word was audible on the teared pieces. He sighed blissfully, "It's wonderful how easily you can manipulate him. Love does crazy things to people..."

North Korea heard Russia's words, but didn't quite get the entire monologue. Most of it was in Russian, and he barely knew what he said at all. However, he picked up the last phrase, and he did feel like the last sentence was correct.

Love did drive him mad.

He started scratching his wrist deeper, and deeper.

...

"Why did Yong Soo abandon me...?" North Korea asked with a hollow crack coming up from the end of his sentence. His eyes were puffy and swollen from crying, but something in his voice showed it was static and empty. The sincerity and emotion that was once there, was gone.

"Maybe he got tired of you. You weren't good enough to be by his side probably... or it might've been because America brainwashed him." Russia petted his head and cooed softly, "Don't you want him to be by your side again? To be equal?"

"More than anything..." He answered, his voice deepening in a low, dark tone. "I... need him... I'm so alone..."

"Ah!" Russia clapped his hands happily together. "Didn't a young man by the name of... what's his name... Kim Il Sung suggest we go into the country and take it? You could be with him again... and he'll never leave you if you just take him..."

"Yes... you're right..."

"He's all you have!" Russia replied happily. "And without him, you aren't anything special. So it's better to go into his country and explain how it's the only way to be with him again. You see, you're only with me because I pitied you. I still like you, however South is the only one that ever truly mattered to you. What is a half without its whole anyway?"

A half would be incomplete and insignificant, just like what he was. And that's all he'll ever be...

...

"-YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND!" South Korea cried at the top of his lungs. North Korea didn't process the words that came out of his mouth, as he tilted his head in confusion. "America was there for me! He listen to me and helped me! You're nothing like him!" He screeched.

The soldiers surrounded the place and South fell to his knees, not in defeat but in despair. North Korea stood in front of him, with his new dark green uniform and short hair. His eyes weren't chestnut brown, but a dark and hollow black. It wasn't full of the soft warmth South was used to. His cold new look was probably because of Russia... because of Japan.

"I can't trust you anymore! This isn't for me, you're just using me like Japan!"

"I AM NOTHING LIKE JAPAN!" North Korea glared, gritting his teeth together. "I am doing this for you! We could be happy together if you just accepted this!"

"... I won't ever accept this." South spat. "YOU'RE NOT THE BROTHER I GREW UP WITH!"

North Korea felt like his mind and soul finally reached its breaking point that day.

He could never... ever feel that way ever again.

Was it normal to feel this way when you love someone? No matter what North did, he could never win back his brother's love. If this is what pain was like when someone you love hates you... he never wanted to get close to someone... he'll never...

It just hurt so much...

...

"So does that answer your question? Or do you still need conformation?" North Korea asked uneasily, looking away. He noticed the crestfallen look in South's eyes, but merely waved him off. "You don't need to feel bad for me. It wasn't important."

"Y-yeah... it kinda is..." South Korea placed the whiteboard onto the table and wiped the water prickling out from the corners of his eyes with his jacket sleeve. North Korea sighed, and crossed his arms.

"What is it now? Need to pity me? Go ahead, I said all that I needed to..." He trailed off as he took another look at his brother's face again.

Tears came streaming down South Korea's face, "I-i'm sorry that I..."

He widened his eyes in surprise and stumbled back, staring at South Korea cluelessly. "What are you sorry for?" South Korea held himself up as he staggered his way towards North Korea. South Korea got down to his brother's level by sitting onto his knees, and clasped his hands onto North. The counterpart felt himself go numb, and North Korea found the courage to hesitatingly look up into his eyes. South Korea's eyes pooled with tears, pain, and guilt.

"It must have hurt a-a lot... right? To f-feel so alone..." South Korea hiccuped, his grip on North Korea's hand tightening. He suddenly burst out his feelings, the ones he kept hidden under a happy facade. He inched his head closer to North's, startling the counterpart. "Why didn't you tell me?! WHY DIDN'T YOU WANT ME TO HELP YOU?! Why did you... have to look out for me so much...?" Holding onto North's hand, it made his sleeve fall down. North Korea tried to pull back but South only clutched onto him tighter.

His gaze shifted towards the cuts on North Korea's wrist and yanked down the sleeve harshly, seeing them in full view. His eyes widened in horror. "I can't believe you!" South Korea's face soften when he turned to North. "Y-you shouldn't-"

North Korea glared at his brother before regaining his calm composure. "Yes? Well I do it. I don't care how much you pity me because you do not actually give a shit. Leave me alone."

South Korea was left speechless. What will he tell him next? What lies will he sprout to make him feel better. "... I mean it's terrible you're doing this to yourself but did you think I don't care about what's happening to you? I don't understand, and I really want to understand. It may seem like I hate you," He grabbed his twin's hand and clutched it tightly. "But really, I just don't know what's happening to you. It's easier to hate than learn."

"Dongs-s-saa..." North Korea quickly pulled his hand away from his twin. "S-stop lying..." He whispered.

"I'm not you idiot. Look at me in the eyes to see if I'm lying to you,"

North Korea was overwhelmed. He can't do it. "I can't... Stop bullshitting me just... LET ME GO!"

"Why would I let go when I see you like this?!"

"Because you don't care! You're just pitying me! YOU HATE ME!"

South Korea let go of his hand, making North Korea lose his balance. He fell on the floor while South Korea stared at him with heartbroken eyes. "I could never hate you. "W-why would you say that?" North Korea cast his eyes down, his bangs covering him.

"You know... the new Yong Soo of Korea doesn't want to deal with me anymore," He suddenly spang up, staring up at the ceiling. North Korea's eyes were hollow and blank. "The polls said that the new generation doesn't want reunification... the new you doesn't want to deal with corrupted trash like me... After all," North Korea sighed. "Who would want to deal with a problem like me?"

"That isn't true! You aren't a problem to me!"

"Oh really? You're always complaining about how I live in the past. Your life is great. Your a powerful nation with with a pathetic one like me hiding in the background. When you think of Korea, they think of the rich country you are. No one wants to deal with me... even yo-"

SLAP!

A cold rush flew past both of them as North Korea's eyes widened in surprise. "Y-you..." South Korea gently caressed his face as the other felt water running down his cheeks. "W-what are you... doing...?"

"You aren't a problem, you aren't trash!" He stared into his golden brown colored eyes, the same as his own. "Your my precious, stupid older brother. And I'm your stupid twin..."

"Yong... Soo?"

"I missed you a lot... and I'm sorry." South Korea croaked. He wrapped his arms around North Korea in a warm, loving embrace. North Korea's expression faltered, reaching his hand out for South's back as they both couldn't stop crying. South Korea wailed, "I'm sorry I was too stubborn to say it! I'm sorry I made you like this! I hate myself because I never tried to understand you at all. I was so selfish, and stupid! I'm sorry for everything..." North Korea then returned the hug as his own tears soaked the others clothing.

"I'm sorry... I missed you too..."

The only sounds heard from the room were the loud sobs from two Korean brothers, as they had fixed the wounds in their relationship.

---

Malaysia's eyes were glued onto the screen with a dumbfounded expression. America leaned his head on his hand, with his elbow on the table. The only noise made were the mechanical electric fans and the other members of their crew sleeping, snores varying from loud to the quietest of sounds. The two had been given the same schedule to watch during this hour.

"... I feel like I just watched a Korean drama.." Malaysia muttered. America gave her a hoarse laugh.

"Yeah, it kinda of is one if you think 'bout it."

She took her gaze away from the footage, looking back at America. "... I remember a while ago you said it was your fault they were split up. Why do you think so?"

"I did? Ah I did..." He chuckled. America sighed in nostalgia and let his hands rest on his lap, kicking his feet up against the table. "It's still true though."

"But... didn't they admit they hurt each other through misunderstandings?"

"Well yeah, of course. But I'm the one who caused the misunderstandings," A bittersweet glint in his eyes confirmed he still felt guilty about the things he did. America crossed his arms and closed his eyes in thought. "I remember back then... I really hated Russia. I hated him to the point where I used South... I told him things like 'well it sounds like your brother doesn't care enough anymore!' or 'your brother is probably as corrupted as Russia'." He turned his gaze to look at Russia, who was sleeping peacefully while hugging a pillow in his arms. "I... really hurt them. I manipulated them... I'm still that way no matter what though. But I'll change and be a better hero to the people I hurt."

"... America..." Malaysia patted his shoulder softly a couple times before pulling away. She smiled at him, "I think you were a great hero today."

He stifled his small laughter. "You were a great one too."

---

Macau unlocked the glass door by punching in the code numbers. He was surprised when he couldn't see them come out, and not even see them at all. He tilted his head, trying to figure out where they had gone. All he heard was faint music playing.

"Uh- guys? They suddenly disappeared..."

"What?! THAT CAN'T BE TRUE!" America squealed, rushing passed him. Indonesia followed him while dragging a half-asleep Malaysia by the collar of her dress. America scanned the room and put his hands on his hips. "They must be in the closet!"

"Really? Me too!" Indonesia fake gasped, putting a hand over her mouth.

"B-be quiet... your bad jokes make me want to fight you..." Malaysia murmured in a low voice.

China popped his head from behind the glass door and raised an eyebrow. "What's the matter?"

"I don't know where the Koreas went!" America covered his eyes with his hands and wailed. "I think they're stuck in the closet!" Suddenly, Russia came from behind China and giggled in his scarf.

"Oh really? Me too!" He replied in a cheerful voice. China scrunched his nose up at him.

"I'm gonna have to kill you later after this..." He warned. Russia shrugged at the smaller man.

Malaysia struggled to get out of Indonesia's grasp. In the end, she could only be dragged onto the floor in defeat. She wasn't a very... energetic person. Rather, she was the one in the ASEAN group who liked staying in a comfortable spot at home the most. Which was why she was always so calm, because it was too tiring to be loud. She was the Greece of Southeast Asia in her opinion.

Hong Kong dragged Taiwan into the room. He walked pass America, who was about to tell him what happened but hovered a finger over his mouth. "I heard what you said." He said in his usual monotone voice. Hong Kong slammed the closet door open, which revealed South Korea had his hands on a microphone, singing in Korean. North Korea somehow got his hands on a guitar and skillfully played the instrument.

This sort of craziness inspired Malaysia to wake up fully, rubbing her eyes and staring at the scene with half-lidded eyes. The two didn't seem to notice everyone in the room was watching them.

"... What are you two doing?" Malaysia asked, yawning in between her words.

The two stopped what they were doing and turned around to their audience. They dropped the items in their hands and stomped over to them, almost in a synchronized fashion.

"WERE YOU SPYING ON US?!" They shouted. Malaysia and the rest nodded.

"Aw... I thought they wouldn't hear or see it from the closet..." South Korea pouted. North Korea shook his head and looked off to the side.

"You all are monsters for locking us in here." He muttered.

South Korea then tackled the other into a bone crushing hug, and clung onto his waist tightly. "But then we wouldn't be able to do this like we used to!" North Korea grumbled but Malaysia could tell a faint blush dusted across his cheeks.

"Nnghh- what time is it?" Taiwan muttered. Hong Kong patted her head.

"It's about seven am." He answered. She only groaned in response.

"Seven am?" South Korea widened his eyes and slapped a hand over his forehead. "Crap! I forgot I need to play League of Legends right now!" He petted North Korea's cheek gently. "I will be back brother. But the video games need me." With teary eyes, he pushed his brother off of him and ran off crying. North Korea and everyone else watched the other run out of the room with a deadpan gaze.

"What's... League of Legends? Some secret Korean organization?" He questioned.

America laughed nervously. "Well no. It's a video game."

Instead of pummeling America to the ground for speaking, North Korea actually had a warmhearted smile tug onto his lips. "Oh. Okay,"

'EH?! Hwan Soo... is something wrong with you or am I still half-asleep?!' Malaysia thought to herself.

Indonesia let out a loud yawn and let go of Malaysia's clothing to stretch out her arms. She scratched her back. "I need to go back to my house and get some beauty sleep. And I need to pack up for the plane ride home. Bye, bye." She waved tiredly at everyone, walking away.

China nodded in agreement. "I recorded a Hello Kitty marathon and I need to watch it asap. Also I think my siblings want to go to sleep too," Hong Kong and Macau looked at each other with a sleepy gaze as Taiwan already fell back into a deep slumber. Russia made his way towards the group and lifted Taiwan into his arms.

"I'll help take her home. Who wants a piggyback ride?" Hong Kong and China both asked for it, so Russia carried them both on his shoulders. Macau only staggered behind them as they fled the scene.

America laughed, "I guess its only us now! Too bad I need to go too, I want to eat my brother's morning pancakes before his bear gets them all. See ya later!" Her gave them a peace sign before heading out the door. But before he did that, Malaysia caught the American giving her a sly wink. She clenched her fist in embarrassment. He left them alone together on purpose! Stupid, nice capitalist.

"You... thank you so much..." She immediately popped out of her daze by his words, looking at the Korean. North Korea's gaze softened as he stared at her. She felt like he was more... open in a way. Like he was more calm and collected, rather than eccentric and rude. Malaysia shook her head and gave him a lighthearted smile.

"America was the one to come up with the plan. And everyone else helped out too. But I'll gladly accept your thanks, la. I tried my best to make you happy, and it worked. So... I'm very glad you can rest in peace..." She closed her eyes and hummed.

North Korea snorted, "You sound like I'm a vengeful spirit who came back from the dead to haunt you." A chuckle escaped her throat and she tried to cover her mouth. It was his turn to laugh as well.

He turned away with his eyes facing towards her. The rising sun illuminating around him with a hazy glow. A smile played across his lips, the biggest, and most beautiful one she ever saw him have. She watched closely as he blinked, his eyelashes brushes against his skin. The subtle wind blowing around them. Her gaze became infatuated with his as he opened his eyes again.

"See you later, Damia." North Korea

"G-oodybye Hwan Soo," She replied back in a shy whisper. He turned away, his hair curling against his neck. His back was faced in front of her, as she slowly watched him walk away. He became even more beautiful in her own eyes.

She felt herself tug on a section of her hair to ease herself, her breath becoming rapid and uneasy.

'I think I'm really in love with you..."

And this time, she accepted it as a fact.

---

DONE! I think my writing improved slightly. Good for you all, now you don't have to cringe at what I write anymore. I think it got better because I watched this really... really good anime and I got inspiration. It's Kimi Ni Todoke if you want to know. It's not the best but I thought it was cute.

So I guess the "brothers-making-up" and "finding-out-your-in-love-with-your-friend" arc is finished. Time for "trying-to-woo-a-korean" arc. Also- Singapore and Indonesia will get more significant roles later on. South Korea will too, maybe China. I'd like to include America if I can.

I hope you all aren't too overwhelmed by this. I wanted to include the NK/SK dynamic so I can compare it to Malaysia and Singapore. I also really like their relationship, I couldn't help but put it in... Also I'm gonna TRY and update once every one or two weeks but I can't promise anything.

If you have anything good to say, please review! And have a fantastic day. :D