Military Training

After that soak in the hot springs, I managed to get a few hours of sleep that night although I did wake up at 4:30 in the morning. That was still the longest amount of sleep I've had since my arrival in 1936, in the world of Hetalia. For once, I didn't feel like a walking corpse decorated to look alive as I got dressed and did my makeup. I was feeling a little calmer too. I didn't jump when someone knocked on my door and told them to enter in English, uncertain if it was Ludwig, Italy, or Japan. It was Ludwig. He seemed surprised I was already awake and prepared for today.

"Ah Miriam, guten morgen." Ludwig said, awkwardly.

"Good morning, Ludwig." I returned the greeting with a smile. "How are you?"

"I am gut." He replied. "I only vanted to inform you zhat I vill be training Japan and Italy for if ve ever go to var. I vill be in zhe courtyard if you need me."

"That is fine Ludwig." I assured. "Would you mind if I watch?"

He didn't mind and I followed him to Italy's room, preparing myself for the yelling.

"ITALY! VAKE UP!" Ludwig shouted, banging on the door.

"WAAAAAH! Germany, not so loud!" I heard Italy's voice cry from the room.

"YOU'RE GOING TO BE LATE FOR MORNING TRAINING!"

Alright, if I stay here any longer I will end up with another headache and that is not how I want to start the morning. Covering my ears, I walked down the hall, removing my hands when the shouting became muffled. I grunted when I bumped into someone.

"Oh! I'm so sorry! I should've-" I stopped when I realized it was Japan. "A-Ah! Gomenasai, Nihon-San. I didn't see you there."

Japan gave a slight shake of his head but keeping his expression impassive. "That is alright, Miriam-San."

I slightly turned my head in embarrassment, even more so when I could still hear Germany and Italy yelling.

"I'm sorry about the yelling." I apologized for their behavior. "Italy can be a bit...difficult in the morning."

"I see." Was his response. We both stood there for another discomforting moment and I was uncertain but I felt as though Japan's gaze was searching me for something. Like he was trying to figure something out, I could not look at him directly in the eye. I was starting to feel very uncomfortable. I was very relieved when Ludwig walked in while dragging Italy by the collar.

In the courtyard, I watched from the steps of the patio as Ludwig started the training.

"Countoff!" Germany bellowed.

"Uno!" Italy chirped.

"Nii." Japan said.

I could already feel the nostalgia coming in waves.

"Und drei!" Germany finished the count. "Now for zhe secret training."

"First off, vhat vould you two do if you came across Britain and you vere unarmed?" He demanded. "Vell? Spit it out, ja! Vhat vould you do?"

"Uhh, I know!" Italy raised his hand. "I'll make a white flag with a stick and a handkerchief and wave it around really fast. Then I'll cry out loudly and ask for help."

I giggled at that. This is definitely the twelfth episode.

"Dummkopf!" Germany shouted. "If you do zhat you vill lose!"

He then turned to Japan. (He really should have started with him) "Japan! Correct answer?!"

"Hai. You should impersonate William the First's wail." Japan answered. I noticed that his speech sounded better, not as much trouble pronouncing L. Did he practice last night?

After questioning and lectures, Germany made Italy and Japan do exercises for a full two hours. I found it fascinating how long they lasted. I knew exercises were long and hard in the military but seeing it with my own eyes was a different experience. I wasn't surprised about Germany and Italy's exercising but I've never seen Japan at work like he was now. He moved with such speed and, dare I say it, grace. From the way he moved I could see how much stronger he was than he appeared to be. Sweat shined like diamonds on his face, his black bangs stuck to his forehead, and his expression held such vivid determination and concentration.

When Germany told them to stop and line up, Japan bent over panting and glanced at Italy. Possibly saying how helpful training is with Italy responded positively despite the fact that he looked like he was dying five minutes ago. Instead of further questioning, Germany dismissed them with a salute. Japan looked confused but reluctantly returned the gesture.

I thought these episodes took place in 1940 but this actually makes more sense to start before the war, preparing before it happens. I doubt they would have time to train during the war.

As the three men went inside, I decided to retreat to my room to write in my diary about the training. It clearly wasn't as ridiculous as the show but more realistic. The show had different scenes for entertainment but now I was seeing what really happened in their world.

AN: Thank you, those who are still following this story. I know this chapter is a bit shorter than the others but the next one will be longer. Reviews will be really appreciated!