Immure

After training from 5:00 to 7:30, I wrote a description of the morning training in my diary, then I went back to the patio with a English-Japanese dictionary that I borrowed from Japan's library. I figured I could make good use of my time by learning more Japanese since I had no work to do at the moment. I was so entranced from reading I nearly jumped out of my skin when I heard my name being called. I turned to see Japan.

"Konnichiwa Nihon-San." I greeted. "Nanika goyōdesu ka?" Do you need something?

I was a little hesitant in my speech and I hoped I didn't sound ridiculous. Japan didn't seem offended nor did he correct me so I must have said it right.

"Īe, Miriam-San." He replied. "I only came to tell you I prepared breakfast if you wish to join us."

"Hai, I will join you momentarily." I told him. I then stopped. "Nihon-San?"

"Hai?" Japan turned back to face me.

"I wanted to apologize for last night." I spoke gently, feeling a little guilty about last night. "I did not mean to embarrass you."

He seemed genuinely surprised at my apology, as if he hadn't expected that at all. He seemed to be struggling with his words for a moment. Oh god, did I do it again?

"You do not need to apologize, Miriam-San." Japan finally responded before I could apologize again. "I needed to correct my mistake. I am grateful that you noticed the errors in my speech."

Before I could respond Italy dashed over and tightly embraced me. My cheeks burned with embarrassment. I knew this was expected of him but I always felt very awkward about showing affection in public. To me, it shouldn't be on display around people you barely know.

"Ciao Bella!" Italy greeted as he wrapped his arms around me. I immediately stiffened but gave him a slight pat on the back, not meeting anyone's gaze. I was relieved when Ludwig quickly entered the room. He must have been chasing Italy due to his panting.

"ITALY! Get off of her!"

…...Zugzwang...

Japan watched with inner bewilderment as Germany tried to pry the whining Italian off of Miriam. He was nearly outraged when Italy just ran up to the girl and hugged her. Right in front of him. Japan was uncertain about what to do but at the uncomfortable expression on Miriam's face he thought about doing something but Germany then rushed into the room before he could do anything.

The struggle went on for a few minutes but finally ended when Germany threatened to make Italy do another hour of training. Miriam looked relieved to be free of Italy's embrace and ran her fingers behind her ears as if checking for loose strands of hair.

As Japan escorted his guests to the dining room, he sent a brief glance in Miriam's direction that went unnoticed by Germany and Italy and the girl didn't meet his eyes as she walked, still embarrassed by Italy's display a few minutes ago. Japan felt like lecturing the Italian at that moment.

The breakfast Japan prepared consisted of steamed rice, miso soup, grilled shishamo, as well as various side dishes including tsukimono, nori, natto, and kobachi. He knew Western and Japanese breakfasts were very different and expected his guests to be a little surprised but Miriam seemed unaffected.

As they sat down Japan said a brief prayer of 'Idakimasu' before eating. He was surprised that Miriam did the same. She even knew how to properly use chopsticks and even helped Germany and Italy when they were struggling.

Japan still couldn't figure Miriam out. Out of all emotions, he could still sense her anxiety yet she seemed genuinely pleased with being in Germany's presence. She seemed tense all the time and was constantly checking her appearance. To anyone else she was most likely afraid of how she looked or was constantly pressured to look beautiful. However, Japan had his doubts and it was frustrating for this was the first human that he couldn't figure out.

As the group ate, Miriam seemed to eat slowly. As if she didn't have much of an appetite.

"Do you not like the food, Miriam-San?" Japan asked, watching as Miriam put down her rice bowl. Half of the food was gone but Miriam only finished a small bowl of rice. At his question, Miriam immediately shook her head.

"No Nihon-San, the food is fine." She replied, picking up her bowl of miso soup.

…...Zugzwang...

After breakfast I went back to my room to read the English-Japanese Dictionary. So far, I had no work to do and I was grateful to get away from Japan's personification. Throughout the meal I felt his gaze on me. I felt like he was interrogating me with his eyes despite his impassive expression.

I was alone now but I still felt anxious wherever I went. As if I was trapped in a tight space with the walls threatening to close in on me.

The knowledge of what will happen in the future suffocates me because I worry about what might become of Ludwig and what might become of me.