Amid the bright, colorful banners and signs and bustling people, Taiwan hummed happily to herself as she walked among the marketplace. She readjusted her customary flower in her hair, which was blue to match her qin pao, as she continued browsing.
"Mei-chan, is that you?"
She turned, running into the chest of her younger brother. "Ryou-kun!" She smiled brightly and hugged him tightly, causing him to stiffen slightly. "I've missed you!"
"I've missed you too, nii-chan."
"What are you doing?" She unwrapped her arms and grinned up at him.
"I'm picking up China-san's groceries."
Mei laughed. "I figured as much. My how you've grown! This isn't fair. You're taller than me now," she pouted.
"I'm sorry..."
"Why are you sorry? It's not your fault!" she laughed and turned to the forgotten vendor. She handed him a few coins and set the fruit in her basket. She tugged on Hong Kong's arm, pulling him to a nearby bench. "So, how are you and Wang-san?"
"We are doing well. How have you been?"
"A little bored to be honest," she chuckled.
"I see. Perhaps, if you are not previously engaged, you would join China-san and I for dinner?"
"Are you kidding? I'd love to!" she smiled, embracing him once again.
"We will be expecting you then." He rose, nodding and fixing his jacket.
Taiwan nodded, smiling wildly. "I wouldn't miss it." She watched as her brother faded into the crowd of people, sighing softly. She glanced down at her watch and cursed under her breath. She hopped up and hurried through the market as she finished her shopping. She ran back to the house, dashing into the kitchen and unloading the basket. She made it just in time to bow to Japan as he returned home. "Hello, Honda-san. I hope your meetings went well today."
"They did."
She nodded, following him to his study. "Honda-san, with your permission, I would like to visit my brother this evening."
Japan settled into the cushions and nodded slightly. "Very well. I will expect you back before curfew."
"As you wish." She bowed once more and exited, smiling.
Honda sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I have to tell her... But how?"
Taiwan sang quietly to herself as she adjusted her obi on her kimono once more. She slipped her wooden sandals on and left, hurrying along the dimly lit streets to her brother's home. She knocked on the door, bouncing excitedly.
"Mei-chan," Hong Kong nodded, opening the door and holding it open.
She smiled and stepped inside, hugging him quickly. "Good to see you again, too."
He led her into the adjoining room as the last member of their family entered.
"Taiwan? Is that really you?"
She laughed and ran into his awaiting arms. "Wang-san! I've missed you so much!"
"I've missed you too, Mei. I'm glad you could come."
"Me, too."
China beamed and took a step back, looking her up and down. "You've grown into a beautiful young woman, Mei. I see you took my advice and finally let your hair grow out."
She nodded, smiling softly. "Thank you, and yes I did."
He gestured to Hong Kong, smiling. "Ryou has spent the past few years living with England. He has grown, just as you have. Now, we can be a family again."I
"That would be wonderful. But I can only stay for a few hours, I'm afraid," she sighed softly, hugging China once more.
"Oh well. You haven't much time left before you're out on your own. Now, who's ready to eat."
Mei laughed and tugged Ryou closer, wrapping him into their hug. "I'm so happy to see you both."
China smiled and hugged them both tightly, kissing her forehead softly. "As am I. As am I."