"So... you have the recording, correct?"
"Yes, I do. They were surprisingry cooperative about it."
"Vell, of course they vere- you vould be very polite about it, as always."
"Of course."
"Good. Now, are ve going to do this as ve agreed?"
"Yes. We wirr edit it to be suitabre for chirdren so we can spread... the... torerance?"
"Exactly. Now, ve vill first take the tape and edit out all of the swears..."
"Yes. I'rr pray it now so we can start immediatery."
"Please do. I am ready to edit."
[At first, everything sounds fuzzy. There is a lot of static, masking all noise, but then there is a fumbling sound as someone fiddles with the device and suddenly voices can be heard.]
Voice 1: Fratello! It's been so long since I've seen you!
Voice 2: Shut up, Veneziano. It's only been a month.
Voice 1(Veneziano): But fratello, I missed you~ Hey, where were you, anyways?
Voice 2: I went to the tomato -'s for a while, okay? It's no big deal.
Veneziano: I never said it was, Romano, that's what you said! Do you always have to be so mean to brother Spain? He treats us so nicely!
Voice 2(Romano): I act only as nice as -es like him deserve!
[The conversation becomes inaudible for a moment as a louder female voice speaks]
Voice Three: This is Agent Mei, reporting in. I have the mic in place and the operation is going smoothly. Target is currently standing with his back to Italy, arms folded. He looks angry and a little red in the face.
[The male voices return, one now louder than ever.]
Romano: -don't need advice from you, Veneziano! You've been hanging around that potato - far too much!
Veneziano: But Germany is nice to me~ Veeee~
Romano: It may seem like that, but one day he'll traitor you and the -storm that's coming at you because of your ignorance will hit you head on. Mark my words! You should just kill that sick potato - before he gets you first!
[There is a pause, and then crying can clearly be heard through the mic. Loud crying.]
Veneziano: (sobbing) B-but I d-don't want to kill Germany! Waahh!
Romano: ...Fratello? You're overreacting again, -.
Veneziano: Y-you don't understaaaaannndddd!
[The sobbing continues, followed by the sound of a door opening and slamming shut]
Voice 3(Agent Mei): Italy has left the room... that was extreme, even for him. I think there's more going on there than we realize. Target is standing there with his fists clenched, looking upset with himself...
Romano: Graaarg!
Agent Mei: ...He's punching the wall. Hard. I think he's bleeding. Remind me to do a background check on any anger management issues this guy has... I hear the Italian mafia is pretty fierce sometimes.
Romano: Why... do you... have to be... so... STUPID!
Agent Mei: I can't tell if he's talking about himself or Italy or the potential match or Germany. I think... himself.
Romano: Always so angry... so stupid... why...? You just made your brother cry, -! You worthless piece of -! You almost made Spain cry yesterday, you saw the tears in his eyes, the way he smiled, it was all wrong, you heard him sobbing in his room but you did NOTHING! Why can't... why can't you just...
[There is a pause, a long silence in the room.]
Romano: (whispering, barely audible) Why can't you just admit you love him?
Agent Mei: ...-. Guys, this may end up being more than just a routine check-up after all... I think we've got a live one!
"...Agent Erizabeta?"
"Yes?"
"Are you sure we want to market this towards chirdren? It seems terribry dark for one of our works so far."
"I know. I think ve should edit through the rest of the story before deciding, and if it is too bad ve can think of something else to do vith it."
"Okay. But what can we do with an edited audio tape rike this?"
"At the very least ve can overwrite it and reuse the tape... though I hate to do so. Agent Mei did a great job vith the commentary..."
"I agree. Agent Mei is... Taiwan, correct?"
"Igen."
"Okay. Now we can continue to edit the tape."
"I'll unpause it..."
[The audio comes back in fuzzy, like at the start. It's fairly quiet, the only sound being that of gentle breathing until a very soft voice fades in...]
Voice 4: Why do I even have to do this, da-ze? I'm not even into this, and I don't owe Tai- er, Agent Mei- any favors. If it wasn't for that stupid girl with the frying pan I could be asleep right now.
("I am going to get him for that comment.")
("Don't be so rude, Agent Erizabeta. You know how he is.")
("Yes, but that doesn't mean I have to like it.")
Voice 4: Anyways, this is... um... Agent Yong Soo- that's my name, right?- on night watch. I feel like a total pervert, da-ze.
("Is there even a point to this segment? It's night vatch. Almost nothing ever happens on night vatch.")
("You know Agent Mei wourdn't have incruded this part unress she thought it was important.")
("I know.")
Voice 4(Agent Yong Soo): Romano- sorry, the target- is asleep. It's not even exciting sleep. By the way, night watch was made in me, da-ze.
("Ugh.")
Agent Yong Soo: Ha! Target is drooling. I am amused, da-ze! Wait... now he is turning over. Was I too loud? I'm whispering... wait, he's frowning in his sleep. I think he's having a nightmare.
[There are a few muffled groans accompanied by a faint whimper, and then a low voice.]
Romano: No... no... stop it. Y-you're... that's not right... ruined everything...
Agent Yong Soo: I wonder what he's dreaming about, da-ze. Can I use it for blackmail material?
("How dare he! I vill punish him for that! Ve do not use these as blackmail. It's a rule!")
("But Agent Erizabeta, he's not even an officiar team member- Agent Mei blackmaired Agent Reon and him to help when she rearized this courd actuarry go somewhere.")
("I know... at least she didn't use information ve gathered for that. And vhile they vork for us, they follow our rules... so I reserve full right to punish them for this.")
("Agent Erizabeta, the punishment is being banned from the group for a month. It's not a punishment if they never wanted to be here in the first prace.")
("Vhatever- I'll find a vay.")
("I know.")
Romano: -. Why? No... no... why... I-I don't want to leave! Don't make me leave, please!
Agent Yong Soo: ...This is getting a little weird, da-ze. I'm not sure if I should be listening to this.
Romano: Why...? I've... no, I never... only one who cared... don't want to leave...
Agent Yong Soo: …-. I see why all of you people are so weird now- stalkers listening in on this -, da-ze. I bet it messes you up.
("Wha... I am not messed up! And I am not a stalker!")
("Werr, actuarry, I think putting audio bugs in private homes is considered starking.")
("Shut up before I hurt you.")
Romano: Everyone else... everyone but you. I thought I could trust you! T-tomato... -...
[The sound of gasping breaths begins to fill the room, cut through with occasional words.]
Romano: (sobbing) I-I... deserve it... Whatever you do, I de-serve it... Just don't make me leave...
[The sound quiets at last as the target apparently falls into a deeper sleep, but one last word can be heard before the target stops speaking entirely.]
Romano: Spain...
Agent Yong Soo: …-. What is this club even about?! I made no agreement to be dragged into anyone's love life, da-ze! Taiwan, I'll get you for this! This is some seriously messed up -. I'll never be able to see Romano the same way again, -s! Whatever the - this is, it was NOT made in me!
[More sobs fill the air, much louder than last time and at a different pitch. It does not sound like the target.]
"...I don't think it's that messed up."
"You're the crub founder, Agent Erizabeta, it arr makes sense to you. South Korea is an outsider, so he does not understand."
"Yes, I could tell. That crying at the end vas him, I am sure of it. I vill have some vords vith Agent Mei on how to choose temporary agents. Hopefully Agent Leon did better."
"Unrikery. I know him personarry. He isn't very cooperative, especially not since Engrand took him over for a whire."
"England took him over? That explains a lot."
"It does."
"So... next segment?"
"Indeed."
[As always, the tape starts out fuzzy and unclear as it is positioned correctly to best hear the voices. And there are quite a few voices this time, too, all unclear and indiscriminatory at first before some become clearer.]
Voice 5: Hmmph... This is Agent Leon. We are at a bar somewhere in Italy... Veneziano's holding some sort of party. He's going to Germany's house next because apparently Hungary called him and said Prussia was going to give away a big secret and he should be there.
("...")
("Vhat? It's possible I vas spying on Prussia and Canada a vhile ago... and I might have told Italy they vere going to tell Germany in a desperate bid to hook them up... but that's beside the point. They are not our target, remember? It's Romano this time. So stop looking at me like that.")
("That is just cruer. I never thought you were that manipurative, Agent Erizabeta.")
("Shut up!")
Voice 5(Agent Leon): If I were you, I'd ask about that. So... Veneziano invited his dear fratello Romano, and of course this means I'm on duty again because we absolutely must track the target's love life until something important happens or he gives up and dies in a hole... I hate you, Taiwan.
("That must have been some pretty serious brackmair. I've never heard him tark so much.")
("Vell, it vas Agent Mei. You know how she can get.")
("With arr due respect, Agent Erizabeta, you're worse.")
("You're on thin ice, Agent Kiku. Thin ice...")
("What? Was it something I said?!")
[A new voice is heard, addressing Agent Leon.]
Voice 6: Hey, Hong Kong! It's been a while, old chap!
Agent Leon: -, it's England. (voice raises, shouting over the white noise of the room.) Go to -! Why are you even at Italy's party?! (voice lowers again) If not for your stupid tactics, Agent Mei, I would leave five minutes ago. - your mission.
Voice 6(England): 'Ey! You don't have to be so - rude.
Agent Leon: Don't you have some innocents to terrorize or something?
England: That was uncalled for! Hey, get back here, you bloke!
Agent Leon: Goodbye.
[There is the sound of England yelling, his voice unclear, and of fabric sliding against fabric as Agent Leon walks away. Finally, the noise stops, and the sound of voices return- there are fewer now, but still far too many to make out.]
Agent Leon: Now that pest is gone. We're also closer to the target. He's talking to Veneziano- you should be able to hear it...
[There is the sound of someone fumbling with the device before some voices become clearer. They are still somewhat faint, but can still be heard with relative ease.]
Veneziano: ...going to Germany's house, and you can't stop me!
Romano: I can't believe you'd rather hang with the potato - than me, jerk!
Veneziano: It's not that- I love my fratello. But you've been acting all weird since you came home from Spain's place. Did something happen?
[The voices fall silent, and Agent Leon murmurs something almost inaudibly into the mic.]
Agent Leon: The target has turned very pale. He's either scared or angry. I don't know which. I think... he's shaking. Now Italy looks worried. The target's fists are clenched... it'll only be a moment...
Romano: (yelling, very loudly) I HATE ALL OF YOU! GO AWAY, -S!
[The room falls dead silent, except for the stomp of feet and the sound of someone breathing heavily. There is a loud slam as a door swings closed.]
Agent Leon: And... boom. He just ran out of the room.
England: Oi, Italy! Was he crying?!
Agent Leon: …Insensitive -.
("...Did Hong Kong just sympathize with Romano?")
("I am not sure that is possible, Agent Kiku... but... I think he... did.")
("That is a miracre!")
Veneziano: (acting like he's in shock) ...Fratello...?
[A new voice surfaces, very loudly and coming from the right.]
Voice 7: Don't worry, folks! I'll get him...
Veneziano: Waah! Brother Spain! Romano got angry when I asked him about your visit and now he's-
Voice 7(Spain): Shhh. I know, Italy. I was here for the whole thing, eh? I'll calm him down.
Agent Leon: (in faint astonishment) -... he has been standing there the entire time. I didn't notice. (greater astonishment, voice going somewhat high pitched) He just winked at me!
("...Vinked...?")
("Oh, no. He didn't notice Agent Reon recording, did he?")
("Vell, I can't tell. I vas already at Germany's house by then... and vherever the heck you vere, it vasn't there.")
("True...")
[A number of muttered curses are pouring out of the device, spewed by Agent Leon. The rest of the conversation is still audible beyond.]
Veneziano: Good luck, brother Spain...
Spain: Gracias, Italy!
[Agent Leon is heard breathing deeply a few times before speaking.]
Agent Leon: ...Both targets have left the room. I'll try to follow discreetly... lucky for you, I know how to sneak around without being notic-
Voice 8: Hong Kong?
Agent Leon: - you. - you all. (raises voice) What do you want, Iceland? And why are you at Italy's party?
Voice 8(Iceland): I don't know. He invited us... actually, only Finland, but he said Finland could bring friends and... ugh. That's not the point.
Agent Leon: So what is the point? (he sounds as agitated as he has ever gotten)
Iceland: It's Norway again, with his big brother act. I thought he might shut up if I was with someone else.
Agent Leon: Ugh, fine. You can follow me if you wish. Just... don't ask what I'm doing.
Iceland: Okay. What are you doing?
("Don't say it, don't say it, don't say it... -it, if you say it I vill kill you...")
Agent Leon: I'm being blackmailed by Taiwan to spy on Romano and Spain's practically nonexistent mutual lovelife.
("He's dead.")
("Carm yourserf, Agent Erizabeta. You are overreacting.")
Iceland: Sounds fun. Can I help?
Agent Leon: I guess.
[There is a fumbling sound as the voice recorder is apparently removed from a pocket.]
Agent Leon: We're recording their voices with this. Also, Hungary gave us horrible codenames... I'm Agent Leon.
Iceland: Isn't that just your human name?
Agent Leon: Yes.
Iceland: So that would make me Agent Emil, yes?
Agent Leon: Yes.
Iceland(Agent Emil): Okay. Let's get out of here before Norway finds me again...
Agent Leon: They went this way.
("Agent Kiku, are you sensing something between them?")
("Undoubtedry. I can't say what, but there is something there. Shourd we set up a watch?")
("There vould be no harm in it. This could be an interesting one... but back to the tape.")
[For several minutes, there is only the occasional comment by one of the Agents and the sound of footsteps. They echo faintly; they are in a hallway, a long one. Eventually, one of them hisses 'Shh!', although it's hard to tell which, as the sound of crying is becoming audible and drowning out their voices.]
Agent Emil: That's him, right?
Agent Leon: Yes. Looks like Spain hasn't found him yet. He's sitting in a... sitting room area, I suppose. There are a few chairs and a large TV.
Agent Emil: I can see, Agent Leon.
Agent Leon: I know. It's for the recorder.
Agent Emil: Oh.
Agent Leon: He's curled up in the fetal position on a couch crying his eyes out.
Agent Emil: This feels like a cheesy romance novel already.
Agent Leon: You chose to tag along.
Agent Emil: I know.
[There is a pause for a few seconds as the target's cries continue to be heard.]
Agent Emil: I've never seen him like this... I don't know him very well, but he always seems angry. This is kind of surprising.
Agent Leon: I'm sure he has an entire sappy backstory for this entire thing, but that's not the point; we're supposed to be observing the possible evolution of his relationship with Sp...
Spain: Roma! What's wrong?! Why are you crying, mi amigo?!
Romano: G-go away, tomato -. I never want to see you again.
Spain: Roma... Is this about the visit?
Romano: S-shut up.
Spain: Roma, I can't shut up! You're sitting here crying, and-
Romano: Like I made you cry last week, -?
Agent Emil: ...What the -?
Agent Leon: Spain is sitting on the far end of the couch. He was looking worried... now he seems shocked and sad. He's not looking at the target anymore.
Spain: Roma...
Romano: What is it, jerk?
Spain: I can't even remember what you said. I forgive you.
Agent Emil: ...Romano- erm, the target- seems surprised now. He's still facing away, but his eyes are big and he's stopped gasping for breath so much. He's sitting very still.
Romano: How can you forgive me if you can't even remember what I said?
[The sound of light chuckling fills the air.]
Agent Emil: ...Spain is laughing.
Spain: Roma, I don't need to know. I know you aren't the best with words, and, besides, I can never stay angry at my best friend~
[Silence.]
Agent Leon: I don't think I've ever seen someone turn that red in the face before... I'm almost impressed. Almost.
Agent Emil: Impressed with who?
Agent Leon: Both, I guess. It takes skill to make someone that emotional, too.
Agent Emil: Fair enough.
Spain: Roma...?
Agent Leon: Target is standing now, still facing away. He looks kind of ashamed and furious and confused.
Romano: You'll never understand, -.
Agent Emil: He's walking away. Spain looks even more shocked than before and also very distraught.
Agent Leon: And confused.
Agent Emil: Yes, and confused.
Agent Leon: That was kind of depressing.
Agent Emil: Yes, and it was an invasion of their privacy.
Agent Leon: Will you come with me next mission?
Agent Emil: I don't see any reason not to.
Agent Leon: Good. Thank you for accompanying me.
Agent Emil: Of course.
"I can't believe he let Iceland in on the club."
"Icerand's not a bad person. If Agent Reon actuarry joins officiarry, it wourd be beneficiar to have him with us, as werr."
"...I guess. But-"
"Do not question it. We have onry three members and two officiar recruits. More members means we can better monitor the others. That's part of why we are making this chird-friendry, correct?"
"Yes. That is very true. I just wish he vouldn't recruit vithout confirming vith us first. If he recruits a total idiot, it vill be very hard to get rid of them vhile remaining somewhat anonymous."
"I know, but I don't think Agent Reon wourd recruit a totar idiot other than to annoy us, and even then I don't think he wourd."
"Okay, okay. Enough vith the vorries, then. Vhat's the next part?"
"This."
[This time, the tape seems to have been already set up, and running for a while. Everything is fairly quiet until a voice begins speaking.]
Agent Mei: This is Agent Mei, reporting in once again from the target's room. I have Agent Leon assigned to the party itself and Agent Yong Soo reluctantly monitoring the potential match's hotel room. I haven't heard from them in several hours, which I hope is a good sign and fear is a bad sign.
[Something vibrates, and someone lets out an 'Oh!' of surprise.]
Agent Mei: Yes? Hello... oh, Agent Leon. Yes, yes... okay, I'll be ready when he arrives. He might be drunk? Great. Okay. Goodbye, brother. That was Agent Leon. The target is on the move, possibly to my location, possibly to a bar. We could have anywhere from ten minutes to a few days... sometimes I hate stakeouts.
[There is a slamming noise, followed by angry footsteps. The sound quality worsens as Agent Mei seemingly shifts around to avoid being seen.]
Romano: -s! All of you! Why don't you understand?!
Agent Mei: He's slamming his head against the wall. I know I'm not supposed to, but I kind of want to step out and comfort him...
("Idiot.")
("You wourd be doing the same thing, Agent Erizabeta.")
("...I know.")
Romano: Idiotaidiotaidiotaidiota! You should have known he didn't feel the same. You're a worthless - and every single -ing person on this planet knows it- except for yourself! Why didn't you follow the advice you gave Veneziano?! The -storm of ignorance hit you instead, and you even saw it coming!
[A huge scream rips through the mic. Almost inaudible beneath the wall of sound is Agent Mei's yelp of pain, presumably as her earlobes burst from the noise. In the silence that follows, only heavy breathing can be heard, followed by a thump.]
Romano: I'm not sure what to do anymore... I can't get rid of the feeling, even though I know nobody cares.
Agent Mei: Owww... he's lying on the bed. Now he's sitting up... he looks... hopeful? And kinda disgusted, like he's just swallowed some nasty medicine that might save his life.
Romano: Well... I guess there's only one person who can help me with this problem now.
Agent Mei: Yeah, he can help himself.
Romano: As much as I hate it, I guess I'll have to visit the wine -.
Agent Mei: ...You're kidding me.
"...Agent Kiku?"
"Yes, Agent Erizabeta?"
"Isn't the vine - France?"
"Indeed. I was present for some of the part with France. It was... very strange."
"I don't think that's next, though."
"Onry one way to find out."
[As before, this time the mic is already up and running when the recording begins. It's quiet for a little bit before someone speaks- a male voice, this time.]
Agent Yong Soo: I hate this job, da-ze. I've been sitting here for hours and nothing's happened, plus being in someone else's bedroom makes me feel like a creepy stalker. Spain- I'm sorry, I mean the potential match- isn't home yet, and Agent Leon called in an hour ago to tell me he was on his way. I'm telling you, if he isn't dead drunk by the time he gets here I'll be surprised.
[There is a small pause.]
Agent Yong Soo: Dead drunk was made in me.
("Somewhere, at that very moment, I think China probabry fert the need to shout out about where dead drunk was actuarry made. Sometimes I swear it is rike they have psychic connection.")
("Does that mean-")
("No! China does not rike South Korea except as a brother. You have a disturbed mind, Agent Erizabeta.")
("Be quiet!")
Agent Yong Soo: If he takes any longer, I'll be forced to extract information via torture, da-ze.
("Don't say anything, Agent Erizabeta.")
("But... ugh... fine. I von't say anything... out loud.")
[There is the sound of a slamming door, followed by a second thud.]
Agent Yong Soo: See? Dead drunk. I was right, da-ze.
Spain: Urrgh... Roma... why...?
Agent Yong Soo: He's crying, too. Is everybody crying these days, da-ze? I always thought western nations were weak, but this is terrible.
Spain: Was it something I said...? I tried to comfort you... I knew no-one else would, 'cept maybe Italy...
Agent Yong Soo: Well, his words aren't slurring that much, da-ze. China slurs when he's drunk... Drunk China was invented in me, da-ze. And so were slurs.
Spain: Lessee... what did I say to him...? I... forgave him. Unconditionally. That wouldn't make him angry, not like that. Then I said something rude about his people skills... but he would agree with me on that, he has before. Which means...
Agent Yong Soo: Wow. His eyes just went huge, da-ze! Maybe he's not as drunk as I thought... wait... Umm, he just ran into the door and knocked himself out. What am I supposed to do now, da-ze? He's blocking the only exit except for the window...
[Silence for a few moments, presumably as Agent Yong Soo tries to think of another solution.]
Agent Yong Soo: Well, -.
"Oh, so that vas how Agent Yong Soo ended up in the hospital, igen?"
"Yes. That particurar undertaking ended in disaster for him."
"It threw off our schedule... Agent Yong Soo vas supposed to have been the one attending France's house. Ve had to call you in as an emergency replacement."
"Yes, but it arr worked out eventuarry."
"I suppose."
[This time, there is only a steady hum as the device powers up- it's somewhat more high-tech than the others, belonging to a more experienced member of the organization. The voices are rather clear and concise as people begin to speak.]
Voice 9: This is Agent Kiku, reporting for recording duty. We are currentry rocated about a mire outside of the house of France. I was visiting Itary when I got the emergency carr about this- Itary is going to Germany's house again, probabry to herp him dear with Prussia and Canada, which I am not supposed to know about. It is very tempting to see where that goes, but this is more important right now.
[For the next few minutes, all that can be heard is the rushing noise of a moving car. Finally, it slows, and there is a sound of tires over gravel, which in itself eventually stops altogether.]
Voice 9(Agent Kiku): We have arrived. France's house is very rarge and imposing, but arso very... I think the word is saucy in Engrish.
[There is the sound of a car door opening and shutting, and then shortly after a ringing doorbell.]
Voice 10: Ahh, Japan, mon ami~ I am glad you could stop by~ I do not know why you believe you can help mon frère Romano, but... {his voice lowers slightly) ...at this point in time, any help is appreciated.
Agent Kiku: Thank you for arrowing me admittance to your home, France.
Voice 10(France): Any time, onhonhonhon~
Agent Kiku: (quietly, whispering) It is arways the hardest to do a recording when everyone knows you are there, but I think this was my best option. (louder) Can you prease show me where Romano is?
France: Right this way, mon ami~
[For the next minute or so, all that can be heard is faint humming, likely coming from France.]
[Agent Kiku: We are sitting in a fancy riving room with many portraits. France is carring a servant to bring Romano down... ah, I think he means to speak to me.]
France: I do not know what has gotten into his head, mon ami. Much as I despise admitting it, mon frère is afraid to the death of me. For him to come to me so suddenly last night, and in such a sorry state... well, something must be very wrong indeed.
Agent Kiku: I see. That is very troubresome indeed.
France: And what is stranger... he did not first go to his true brother. They may not act like it, but Romano and Veneziano are very close.
Agent Kiku: I courd terr when I met him the first time as an Axis power. Twins have a very speciar connection.
France: Oui! But mon frère did not tell Veneziano, did he? And when he arrived, he said 'I need your help in the morning, wine -' and went straight off to bed! He did not cower or shrink- not that I want him to, but he always does- he was just kind of slumped like he was in a deep depression and went to the room. Japan, if you can help him, I will be forever grateful to you~
Agent Kiku: I wirr do my best!
[Before another word is said, there is a dull thud. The room falls into silence as someone else slumps on a third chair.
[Agent Kiku: Romano- the target- rooks rike he needs sreep. His eyes are baggy and red. He rooks as though he spent the night crying.]
Romano: Why is that - Japan here, too?
Agent Kiku: Excuse me, Mr. Romano, that was very rude!
Romano: I don't -ing care if I'm being rude.
France: Frère, are you feeling all right? You seem to have a bit of the strange happenings lately, you know?
Romano: No, I'm not all right, -s. Can't you tell, or do you just not care?!
Agent Kiku: Why do you think we don't care, Mr. Romano?
Romano: (coldly) Nobody cares.
[Agent Kiku: He's shifting around rike he wants to get up but can't decide if he shourd. He rooks uncomfortabre, indecisive.]
France: But, mon ami, you wouldn't come to your frère aîné if you were just feeling lonely and upset with the world, eh? What is really troubling you? Surely you can tell Mr. Japan and myself.
Romano: I'm... not sure.
Agent Kiku: We won't terr anyone if you don't want us to. Besides, it wourd probabry do you good to terr someone instead of keeping your feerings secret.
[In the quiet that follows, there is a single, deep, shuddering breath audible through the mic. It's accompanied by a long sigh, and, eventually, words.]
Romano: I want to know how to admit.
France: Admit what, mon ami?
Romano: …
[Agent Kiku: He is turning red now, rooking at the floor instead of our faces. He is crearry very uncomfortabre with the situation.]
France: ...Onhonhonhon~ Frère, have you come to me seeking advice on the matters of love?
Romano: Never, you stupid wine -!
[There is silence for a few moments.]
Romano: ...Okay, fine. Yes. That's why I came.
France: Onhonhonhon~ I knew it, mon ami~ You have a crush, oui?
Romano: (loudly) It's not that simple, wine -!
Agent Kiku: (quietly) Is it ever?
Romano: I do have a crush, but I don't think the person likes me like that.
France: Ah, so this love is unrequited, hmmm? That always makes a love story more interesting.
Romano: It's not supposed to be interesting! It's supposed to work out somehow!
France: Oui, oui. Anyways, have you tried-
Romano: No, and I won't. That idea is terrible, go throw it at that -hole potato - or something.
France: But how did you know? I did not even finish introducing the plan!
Romano: I hate you so much I figured out you always suggest fewer clothes first. What other ideas are there for me to disprove?
[There is a frustrated groan.]
Agent Kiku: Well, how about we start with the very beginning steps of a rerationship? That seems rogicar.
France: Oui! Japan, that is une bonne idée! And to start, we shall begin with...
"Vhat? Begin vith vhat?"
"Well, this part took a rong time to comprete, so it is a very choppy piece of audio recording. We had to stitch in the parts that Agents Reon and Emir recorded. "
"Ahh, fair enough. But one day ve must fix that part."
"Agreed."
"Here is the next part."
[One word from the previous recording pops up on the new one before it cuts off to the other tape.]
France: ...Roses!
[Aftewards, the tape regains the fuzzy qualities it originally had, the voices rather hard to hear over the white noise.]
Agent Leon: Agents Leon and Emil reporting in. We received a call that the target would probably try something today, so we rushed to get in place- just in time, too.
Agent Emil: The target is approaching the house, walking stiffly. He has something behind his back and looks serious.
[There is a faint ringing noise.]
Agent Leon: Target just rang the doorbell. He seems to be nervous. He is shifting from foot to foot and scowling.
Agent Emil: His hands are probably sweaty by now.
Agent Leon: How can you tell?
Agent Emil: He keeps shifting his grip on the thing he's holding.
Agent Leon: Ah. The door is opening. Potential match is standing there, looking confused.
Spain: Roma? What are you doing here so early in the morning?
Agent Emil: Sp- Potential match looks nervous, as well. He can apparently hide it very well, because target doesn't seem to have noticed.
Agent Leon: Or maybe target is just that oblivious.
Agent Emil: That makes more sense.
Romano: Ah! T-tomato -... I... uh... wasn't expecting to see you here.
Spain: Uh, Roma, this is my house.
Romano: Of course. I knew that. I lived in it, remember, -?
Spain: I know~ That's why I was confused, amigo.
Agent Leon: Target just went bright red. He's not looking potential match in the eyes anymore.
Agent Emil: Potential match seems confused and a little nervous.
Spain: Roma, you look like a tomato again~
Agent Emil: But not very nervous.
Romano: Nng... fine... -, just take these! I'm leaving!
Agent Leon: Target just revealed he'd been hiding a bouquet of roses behind his back. He just shoved them at potential match and ran off... -it, Agent Mei, I'll hurt you for dragging me into this.
Spain: Que...? Roma... Roma! Wait!
Agent Emil: Potential match is running after target, but target appears to be faster... and crying.
Spain: -... Romano...
Agent Leon: Potential match is walking slowly back to house, looking at the roses and frowning.
"...Very interesting. I never thought France could help vith romance in vays that vouldn't get you arrested for harassment."
"He can be surprisingry chivarrous when he's not being a totar pervert."
"I hate to say it... but he might make a good addition to the group?"
"...Hmm. I suppose he courd be... I can present the idea to him so he doesn't know about us if you want."
"That might be a good idea. Thank you for the offer, Agent Kiku."
"Of course, Agent Erizabeta."
[The voices in this section are clear, concise- this is obviously Agent Kiku's recorder again.]
Romano: Roses? What are you, an idiot? Roses would never work on-
[The voice stops abruptly, and there is silence for a few seconds.]
[Agent Kiku: Target has turned bright red. He put his hands over his mouth rike he said something he shourdn't have.]
France: Roma, are you afraid we won't approve of your crush? Because I, as the ultimate master of love, can assure you that whoever it may be I will not think any less of you~
Romano: No! I won't tell you, wine -!
France: Okay, I will not ask about it, eh?
[There is a pause.]
France: But if you want to tell us-
Romano: No! What are you saying?! I mean, it's not like it's Spain or anyone like that, -s!
[There is another, much longer pause.]
Romano: …-it.
Agent Kiku: ...That was rearry kind of sad.
France: It's monsieur Espagne, isn't it?
[Agent Kiku: Target is turning very red.]
Romano: No! (pauses) I mean... sì. But if you make fun of me, I will be forced to bring out my secret weapon, -s!
France: What, you mean your cheesy mustache?
Romano: N-no! S-shut up, wine -!
Agent Kiku: Mustache?
France: Onhonhonhon~ Trust me, monsieur, it is exactly what it sounds like.
Agent Kiku: Ah, I see. So, what is your next idea for Mr. Romano, France?
France: Onhonhonhon~ Indeed, mes amis. If the roses do not work, then you should try the...
"...Vhich one of you decided that it vas best to cut of at that moment?"
"Agent Erizabeta, I do not know! It was probabry Agent Mei or Agents Reon and Emir- they put together the finar copy before sending it to us for editing."
"I vill have vords vith them about it!"
"Erizabeta, prease be nice to them! We arr know the pubric rikes criffhangers. Perhaps they wirr enjoy it more this way."
"Grr... all right. Ve vill see."
"Arigato."
"Vhatever. Let us vatch the next part."
[Once again, there is a brief section of clarity before the second part of the tape begins.]
France: Chocolates!
[There is a brief cut-off before the lower quality section begins to play.]
Agent Leon: It's only been a day since the roses, but I'm back here anyways. Agent Emil had to go home today, so I'm alone- - the Nordic reunion. And Denmark, for making him attend.
("There is a Nordic reunion?")
("It makes sense. At my home we have an Asian reunion once a year.")
("...I should plan a Germanic reunion.")
("Um, but don't you arr pretty much rive in each other's houses anyways?")
("Shut up! I'm listening to the tape.")
Agent Leon: So, apparently the target should be returning in a little bit with another present thing for the potential match. I can't see how this will end much differently...
[There is a vague panting noise.]
Agent Leon: The target just ran up to the house. He looks frustrated... probably embarrassed... he's got a box with him. He's glancing around like he doesn't want anyone to see him... báichī. Obviously I can see him, so he is not doing a good job with this.
[There is the sound of a doorbell, and then feet pounding on the ground.]
Agent Leon: ...As England would say, I think he just ding-dong-ditched the potential match. He left the box and ran.
[There is a pause, followed by the creaking of an opening door.]
Agent Leon: The potential match opened the door.
Spain: Hello? Hmm? There's nobody out here? Huh. (pause) Wait... what's this? A... box?
Agent Leon: The potential match just picked up the box. He looks confused.
Spain: Hey, look at that! It has my name on it, eh? And it feels warm~ I wonder what it is~
Agent Leon: He's opening the box... he looks kind of happy...now he's grinning like an idiot.
Spain: It's a box of churros! Mmm...
Agent Leon: He took one out and ate a bite. Now he's swallowed and looks confused.
Spain: But... who left this for me?
Agent Leon: He's glancing around. Now he's grinning again.
Spain: Thank you, mysterious churro maker! They are delicioso!
Agent Leon: He's waving around wildly. Now he's gone back inside.
[There is a sharp intake of breath, followed by a screech and a thud.]
Romano: -it!
Agent Leon: What the -?! He was in my hiding place! How did he get in my hiding place?! How the - did he not notice me?!
Romano: Prego, tomato -.
Agent Leon: ...That was weird. He fell out of the tree I was hiding in. Now he's running away again...
"...Have ve checked the target's mental records?"
"I am not sure he has any. Most nations do not take that kind of test."
"I have."
"...Because you thought you were a boy as a chird?"
"...Maybe."
"Hhhh... okay. Ret us go watch the next section."
[The tape is clear once more. All is silent a few minutes before target speaks.]
Romano: Chocolate? Really? That is too cheesy.
France: Hey! Have you ever considered it is cheesy because it works?
Romano: Besides, the tomato - prefers churros.
France: So give him churros. See how I care! I am only trying to help, after all~
Agent Kiku: That courd be a good idea. Giving him churros courd show him that you know what he rikes, and he might appreciate it more if it is personarized rike that.
Romano: O-okay, so so far all you have told me is to give him candy and flowers. What else do you think you have, wine -?
France: Onhonhonhon, mon frère, let me think... Ah! I have it! The ever-so-popular...
"Put in the next one quickly. I vant to see vhat he comes up vith this time."
"It is actuarry a very strange idea... I think America uses it a rot when he rikes someone."
"Don't give it away, Agent Kiku! You're ruining the surprise!"
"But... I... oh, whatever. Ret me set it up so we can pray it."
France: ...love letter, hmm?
[This time, the audio remains clear, though not as much as the other; however, as the recording progresses, the quality fluctuates worryingly.]
Agent Emil: Agent Emil, reporting in. Two days ago the target apparently made another attempt to get the possible match's attention. I was at a reunion, so I know nothing of this.
[There is a pause before the agent continues to speak.]
Agent Emil: Today my partner Agent Leon was going to visit someone in the hospital... South Korea, correct?
("Vha- he didn't refer to him as Agent Yong Soo!")
("Carm yourserf, Agent Erizabeta. At that time he onry knew that Hong Kong and Taiwan were agents, remember?")
("You use too many excuses, Agent Kiku.")
("What? No, I don't!")
("Yes, you do! Now be quiet so ve can go back to the tape.")
("I don't... but fine.")
Agent Emil: So I had to come out on my own. And he has the recorder... so I bought a new one for this mission.
("That explains the veird quality.")
Agent Emil: I can see the target approaching the house... he looks nervous. He's at the door. He's not even ringing the bell this time, he just put an envelope in the mailbox. Now... he's leaving. -it, this means I'll have to wait until Spain picks up his mail, doesn't it?
[There is a brief section filled with high-pitched muttering and very random sound quality before the next words are audible.]
Agent Emil: ...ntial match just opened the mailbox. Finally. It's been hours.
("Vait, vhat? ...Did that just do a timeskip?")
("Yes, I berieve Agent Mei fast-forwarded this part since nothing rearry happens. It is a rogicar decision.")
("Hhhh... vhatever. It vorks, I guess.")
("It's better than sitting through severar hours of Agent Emir tarking.")
("True.")
Agent Emil: He's going inside to read them.
[There is a vague crackling noise, something not heard in any of the recordings so far.]
Agent Emil: Mr. Puffin, come in.
[A new voice is heard. It is very staticky and somewhat unclear.]
Voice 11: Hey, Iceland. Whaddaya want now?
Agent Emil: Mr. Puffin, I told you! Call me Agent Emil for now!
Voice 11(Mr. Puffin): Fine, fine. So, whaddaya want, Agent Emil?
("He brought his pet along?!")
("Yes, and it sounds rike they are tarking through a warkie-tarkie. I imagine Mr. Puffin is on the inside of the house, and that Agent Emir is using him to herp with surveirrance.")
("Hmmph... I guess that vorks.")
Agent Emil: I need you to find out where Spain is. When you find him, tell us what he's doing and saying.
Mr. Puffin: Wow, that brings back a lotta memories...
Agent Emil: Of what?
Mr. Puffin: Of stalkin' people before we used ta send in the hitmen.
Agent Emil: (sighs) You really are creepy sometimes. Just find Spain.
Mr. Puffin: Ah, fine. You're no fun.
[There is a pause. The crackling noise fluctuates, like the opposite end of the walkie-talkie is being moved around a lot. ]
Mr. Puffin: Ahh... there he is. I see him. He's sittin' at the table, sortin' through his mail, mutterin' about how many a' those bills he's got. Why am I doin' this again?
Agent Emil: I promised you fish.
Mr. Puffin: Ah, yeah. 'Kay... now he's holdin' one up, squintin' at it like it's gonna explode or somethin'... I can read it from here. All it says is 'To Spain' in real plain chickenscratch writin'... He's openin' it. An' readin' it. His eyes just got real wide... Now he's runnin' off ta his room, I think. He left the letter out on the table.
Agent Emil: Can you go read us what it says?
Mr. Puffin: Fine... but you owe me more fish for that... all right, I'm at the table, better make this quick... 'Dear Spain, I've always liked you.' Awh, don't ya tell me this is a love letter...
Agent Emil: It probably is.
Mr. Puffin: Eughh, so sappy. 'Dear Spain, I've always liked you. You're brave and forgiving. You're courageous enough to help get rid of those -s France and England, and strong enough to keep going even when the entire world is against you. Sometimes it feels like you're the only - in the world who actually cares about me.'
Agent Emil: Is that all of it?
Mr. Puffin: No, there's some kinda crappy poem after it... do I hafta read this?
Agent Emil: Yes.
Mr. Puffin: Fine... 'Roses are red, violets are blue, even though you're a -, I think I love you.' What kind of a crappy romance novel is this?
Agent Emil: One that Hong Kong dragged me into.
Mr. Puffin: Ugh.
Agent Emil: Sometimes.
"Hey! It is not a crappy romance novel!"
"Agent Erizabeta, you are yerring at the voice recording of a puffin. Prease carm yourserf."
"I know, but... ugh! Vhat an idiot!"
"Without him we wourd not have known the contents of the retter at arr."
"That doesn't mean I can't resent him!"
"I know."
"Hey... ve're getting closer to the end of the recordings, aren't ve?"
"Yes, Mr. France onry had four suggestions for the target. We shourd be getting crose."
"Okay. Let's finish these before I explode out of anger."
"I'rr put in the next one."
[There is silence for several moments. The quality of the tape is much better than the last one, with no fluctuations and few blurry spots. There is no hum as it turns on; it has clearly been running for a while.]
Romano: Are you crazy, -? A love letter? Like one of those crappy anonymous notes you put in someone's locker in high school?
France: Hey! They are not crappy... well, unless it is America writing them.
Romano: That - writes love letters?
France: Oui, if they can be called that...
Agent Kiku: He writes them to citizens he sees on the streets, sends them, and immediatery forgets. He has sent them to some of most nation's citizens... I am surprised you haven't noticed one yet. Usuarry one or two end up being sent to a government officiar and are passed up to the actuar nation...
("Oh! That explains the anonymous letters my boss keeps giving to me... I vondered vhat idiot vould vrite such cheesy -.")
("Yes, things rike that are usuarry America.")
("I vill keep that in mind.")
France: Perhaps the burger-eating chubby does not like Italians, eh?
Romano: Hmmph. It's good I don't have to deal with that American's - love letters.
France: It is- they are horrible. But I am sure that if you wrote one, it would be très bon~
Romano: Nnng... fine, maybe I'll try writing a stupid love letter, wine -.
("...If those vere America's letters, I must say the target's vas just as cheesy as his.")
("I agree, arthough once I saw one that was supposed to be a romantic haiku but ended up being comprete nonsense I courd not understand.")
("Typical American.")
France: Ah, that is great!
[Agent Kiku: He just did his kissing hand thing, where he puts two fingers to his rips and brows the worrd a kiss... the target is turning red.]
Romano: D-don't do that, wine -!
France: Oh, am I making mon frère embarrassed?~
Agent Kiku: France, you are supposed to be aiding Mr. Romano, not making him die of embarrassment!
France: (sighs) Oui, I know. So, mon frère, the last thing you must do to win the heart of your crush is...
"...I never thought I vould be so glad to see this over."
"It is a very rong recording. But at reast it isn't as boring as the one you did when you thought Greece was seeing Egypt..."
"S-shut up! I heard he vas going for a visit, and vhen he vas talking about it he made no mention of politics..."
"Honestry, even if it had been romantic it wourd have been boring. Do you even know much about Greece and Egypt?"
"...Not much."
"I thought maybe... There are very few peopre who make Greece react, most notabry Turkey and myserf. And I am not sure anyone can get much reaction from Mr. Egypt."
"Hmm... remind me to set up observation on Turkey."
"Agent Erizabeta, we can't watch everyone!"
France: A romantic dinner, onhonhonhon~
[The tape cuts off and back to the normal, less clear version. There is a lot of random background noise, as though it's in a public place, but not quite so much as to suggest a very crowded area. There is music in the background that is difficult to make out, but it seems to have a slow beat and is probably played on something like a piano or violin.]
Agent Leon: This is the most embarrassing thing I've ever done.
Agent Emil: Don't say anything about embarrassment. You don't know about embarrassment.
Agent Leon: We are currently sitting in the booth next to where the target has reserved a table in a fancy Italian restaurant. So there is no chance they'll recognize us, we're being forced to wear disguises. Agent Mei gave me a blonde wig and contacts...
Agent Emil: Mine's worse.
Agent Leon: She thought it would be better to dress him as a girl.
("...Agent Mei is manipulative sometimes.")
("I agree. She is most certainry trying to set them up.")
("Is it vrong to feel proud?")
Agent Emil: So I am being forced to act like Agent Leon's... date. While we are stalking people on a date.
("You know vhat? I'm not even going to protest the stalker comment any more. I'm already going to have vords vith all of them.")
("That is very adurt of you, Agent Erizabeta.")
Agent Leon: Whoever is Mei's... boss... that is listening in on this, we will get you. And you will pay.
("I'm terrified.")
("Seriousry?!")
("Nincs, ön idióta! It vas sarcasm!")
("...Oh. Sōrī.")
Agent Emil: They have just entered the restaurant. The target looks nervous. The potential match just looks oblivious. And I look like an idiot.
Agent Leon: You do look like an idiot.
Agent Emil: Thank you for the words of comfort.
Agent Leon: Any time.
Agent Emil: They have taken their seats...
Voice 12: May I take your orders, please?
Agent Leon: Wha- oh. I'll have, I don't know, some pasta or another.
Voice 12: Pasta's really good, I really like pasta, but can you be a little more specific?~
[There is a long pause in the clearer voices before one of the agents replies.]
Agent Emil: ...I recognize your voice.
Voice 12: W-what? N-no you don't~ veee~
Agent Leon: ...Italy Veneziano?
Voice 12(Veneziano): How do you know who I am? I don't recognize you from any of the meetings! Are you an official?! Veeee~
Agent Leon: No, it's us- Hong Kong and Iceland. We're undercover.
Veneziano: Why?
Agent Emil: Reasons.
Veneziano: Ohhh, okay~ I'm undercover because I wanted to see my fratello's first date~
[There is another period of silence.]
Agent Leon: I'll have whatever you suggest.
Agent Emil: Same.
Veneziano: Okay~ I'll be back with your drinks in just a minute~
Agent Leon: He was wearing a waitress's outfit and a hair net.
Agent Emil: Probably why he didn't question my terrible get-up.
Agent Leon: Of course.
Agent Emil: As far as I can tell, the target and the potential match have just ordered their food... they haven't really been talking. Italy took their order, but neither noticed who it was... his disguise isn't even that good.
[There is a momentary pause.]
Agent Leon: The potential match looks happy and oblivious. The target still looks nervous. Very nervous.
Veneziano: Ciao, i miei amici! I brought you your drinks~
Agent Emil: ...That was fast.
Veneziano: What can I say? I can go really fast when I want to~
Agent Leon: Indeed... is this wine?
Veneziano: Yep! The best we have~
Agent Leon: ...Fine.
Veneziano: Well, I've got to go serve other people~ I'll bring your food in a while, okay? Arrivederci!
Agent Leon: ...What do we do now?
Agent Emil: Shh! They've started to talk.
Spain: So, Roma, thanks for taking me to dinner... but why such a fancy restaurant? Usually we only go to cafes and such.
Romano: Nng... I... t-the food is molto buono, tomato -. Much better than the - those places serve.
Spain: Really? I always thought those cafes were very good. You didn't seem to hate them, either, Roma.
Romano: Y-yes... but I wanted something more pricey tonight.
Spain: This isn't an effort to get money off me, is it? Because we're having enough problems with that as is, Roma-
Romano: No! I'm paying tonight, remember, -?
Spain: Oh! You did say that, didn't you? Well then, gracias!
[There is silence for several moments. The waitress- Veneziano- drops by to give them their drinks.]
Spain: Oh! Roma, this is very expensive wine. Are you sure-
Romano: J-just shut up and drink, -.
Spain: Well, if you say so... but, Roma, you only have the cheap wine!
Romano: S-so? Maybe I like this kind more.
[There is a pause.]
Spain: Then if you like it more, I'll have that kind too~
Romano: B-but-
Spain: Waiter! I'm sorry, there was a mistake. I'll take the same kind of wine he's having~
Agent Leon: He called Italy back over. He's still grinning stupidly.
Romano: Ugh... -.
Veneziano: Okay! I'll bring it out to you right away~
Agent Emil: Italy is taking the wine away... Romano looks red in the face.
Spain: Hahaha! Roma, you look like a tomato!
Romano: S-shut up. -!
Spain: Oh! By the way, Roma, I just wanted to thank you for the churros~
[There is another pause.]
Agent Leon: The target is turning even redder than before. He looks shocked.
Romano: Y-you knew...?
Spain: Of course!~ There's only one person who can make churros as good as mine, after all~
Romano: W-wha-
Spain: Oh, and the letter! I could never mistake your handwriting, Roma~
Agent Emil: The target seems to think his shoes have become very interesting. Or his lap, since they're sitting.
[There is a clattering noise. followed by a yelp.]
Romano: S-Spain, you -! What are you doing?!
Spain: I'm giving you a hug, Roma~
Romano: Over the table?!
Spain: Of course~
Romano: Y-you just knocked over the wine, -!
Spain: I know, but the bottle was closed. It won't spill~
Romano: C-can you stop hugging me?! There are a bunch of people staring at us!
Spain: Roma, you need to lighten up~
Agent Leon: ...Wow. Potential match- you know what, - that- Spain just tackle-hugged Romano. Over the table.
Agent Emil: I think I see Italy taking a picture... now Spain has let go, and he's smiling at Romano. Romano is blushing again, but he looks more content than I've ever seen him.
Agent Leon: Well, now that they're together and all... we're going now, whoever the -s who wanted this recorded are. Zàijiàn. Also, go die in pits.
Agent Emil: Bless. I'm never doing this again.
Romano: Hey, Spain... I think those -s sitting behind you were talking about us.
Spain: Si, I heard that, too. Are we going to get them?
Romano: We should make the -s pay.
Spain: ...Okay, maybe nothing that violent. But we can ask them about it~
Romano: Hey, you sneaky -s! What are you talking about?!
Agent Leon: -!
Agent Emil: Instead of swearing, maybe we should run...
Agent Leon: We should run. Run!
[There is a thudding noise, followed by heavy panting. Eventually there is a scream, followed by several loud swears and the sound of fighting, and then someone fumbling at the device- and everything shuts off.]
"That explains how they ended up vith the recording."
"Yes. It was onry ruck they did not have any way to access the actuar data..."
"It also explains vhy Agent Mei vas panicking over the last part... she did not expect to be given the opportunity to edit it for us, igen?"
"Indeed, so I made a speciar trip to ret her finish it before we took it to you."
"That is acceptable, Agent Kiku."
"Arigato. Wirr we be using this recording for a chirdren's version?"
"I don't know... it is a little strange. I think ve should vait and consult vith the others."
"Agent Erizabeta... there are onry four others, and arr four were on the mission."
"I know, but they still have an opinion."
"True... It's getting rather rate. If there is nothing erse you wish for me to do, I am going to go home."
"That's fine. I'm getting tired, too. I vill probably head upstairs in a little vhile."
"Rucky you... the base is in your basement, but I have to take an hours-rong fright to get home."
"Yes, but I know that if you didn't enjoy being in the club you vouldn't attend every meeting."
"I know... Oyasuminasai, Hungary."
"Jó éjszakát, Japan."
WHEE IT'S 9.5K WORDSSSS
...Which trumps the first one by, like, a thousand. I'm sorry for making you struggle through all of that, especially if you didn't have a clue what was goin' on... I didn't think something written in script format could get so loooong.
Word of note: This takes place mostly before the GerIta chapter, but Romano's whole romance attempts were actually afterwards or during it at some point- thus, Italy mentioned Japan's involvement to Germany but nothing about the actual date. This... probably could have gone a lot different, but I'm not entirely upset with the end product. Just the amount of translations I'm gonna have to put down here. Ugh.
Speaking of which...
Translations:
-Fratello- Brother (Italian)
-Igen- Yes (Hungarian)
-Gracias- Thank you (Spanish)
-Mi amigo- My friend (Spanish)
-Idiota- Idiot (Italian)
-Mon ami- My friend (French)
-Mon frère- My brother (French)
-Frère aîné- Older brother (French)
-Oui- Yes (French)
-Une bonne idée- A good idea (French)
-Que- What (Spanish)
-Monsieur- Mister (French)
-Espagne- Spain (French)
-Sì- Yes (Italian/Spanish)
-Arigato- Thank you (Japanese)
-Báichī- Idiot (Chinese)
-Delicioso- Delicious (Spanish)
-Prego- You're welcome (Italian)
-Très bon- Very good (French)
-Nincs, ön idióta- No, you idiot (Hungarian)
-Sōrī- Sorry (Japanese)
-Ciao, i miei amici- Hello, my friends (Italian)
-Arrivederci- Goodbye (Italian)
-Molto buono- Very good (Italian)
-Zàijiàn- Goodbye (Chinese)
-Bless- Goodbye (Icelandic)
-Oyasuminasai- Good night (Japanese)
-Jó éjszakát- Good night (Hungarian)
And in addition, if some of Japan's words make no sense, take out a few of the 'r's and replace them with 'l's. That's kind of his accent.
Man, this was fun to write at first, but after a while script format got confusing... and now I'm going to have to get used to writing normally again x.x But you know what? NO REGRETS.
While I think Kaoru is a more popular human name for Hong Kong, I used Leon because I'm pretty sure it's vaguely more canonical. I'm worried that I wrote his character wrong... since he's supposed to be a narrator of sorts he had to talk a lot more than he typically would, same with Iceland. And I don't think I got Mr. Puffin quite right. Blargh.
Well, I hope Romano was... somewhat accurate. He's got a difficult personality. And with any luck, France was more accurate, as well- I have a feeling I'm still failing at him, though. Also not sure Japan and Hungary were all that great... ugh.
ALL YOU REVIEWERS. YOU'RE WONDERFUL FOR MORALE. I love you alllll~ And if you see any spelling, grammatical, or translation errors, please tell me. I'm a bit of a Grammar Nazi, but I am by no means grammatically perfect .
Anyhow, it's kinda late as I'm finally finishing writing this- I'll have to post it tomorrow as is-and I should really finish this up before it turns into a monologue, so... This was AF-DS once again, good night and good luck~
