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Disclaimer: I don't own Axis Powers: Hetalia. It rightfully belongs to Himaruya Hidekaz. I merely own the AU plot and setting. Additionally, I'm not an expert on teaching and blindness. All information comes from observation and speculation. Please do not reference.

Well, we're finally closing into the last of this story! Enjoy the last stretch before the finale!

Nihilism

"To be blind is not miserable;
Not to be able to bear blindness, that is miserable."
—John Milton

At first, Arthur thought of taking his car, but in the end, he prompted against it, especially since he didn't know where he would be able to park. So he ran to Francis' flat, a few papers stuck deep into his pocket. Then he went up a few floors and knocked on a familiar door.

"Bonnefoy? This is Arthur," Arthur called, trying to catch his breath and straightening himself out. He had gotten sweaty after the short run through town, but at least he wasn't uncomfortably so.

There was a moment of silence. Then the sound of rustling and tapping followed, and Francis called back, "One moment please!" Eventually, the door opened, revealing a strangely dishevelled Francis, a table with a laptop reciting job openings in retail, and the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. He opened his mouth to speak, but Arthur cut him off, ripping out the papers in his pockets and shoving them into Francis' face.

"You're coming to the Vatican City with me."

Francis sputtered. Even though he couldn't see the papers, he could feel the edges against his nose, and he pulled his head back. "The… Vatican City?"

"Yeah. The place where the Pope lives. It's right next to Rome."

"I know. But… why?"

"The Sistine Chapel is there!"

"I… know. But…"

"Do I have to spell everything out?" Arthur rolled his eyes and unfolded the papers. "You'll finally get to see the Sistine Chapel again. And you can look up, and see that everything's there."

Francis sighed, leaning against one leg and the doorframe. "But you know I can't see anything."

"Physically, you can't. But it won't be a waste of time."

Francis paused. "But I can't afford the trip."

"It's on me. I've been saving all my money for something like this. But if you want, you can always give me back the money again." Arthur smiled. "Once we get back from summer vacation."

Francis smiled back, shaking his head and folding his arms over his chest. "All right. Sounds good to me. When would we leave?"

"Next week. After we find you a contract to sign."