The trip up to the ruins was completely silent, save for the sound of their footsteps. Everyone was reflecting on what was to come. What was waiting for them at the end of the trail? About three-fourths of the way up, England happened to look back and frowned,"Oh, bother." He stopped for a moment.

Russia also stopped and looked toward England, "What is wrong?"

England started back up the trail, "We've been sucked into the Betweenplaces."

Prussia started, "How is that even possible?!"

"I didn't notice any changes going up the hill..." Japan stated quietly.

France shrugged apprehensively, unfamiliar with the situation, "Perhaps it was zat woman...Skiri...oui?"

Germany had his hand on his gun as his eyes scanned the area behind them. It looked like the desert...but starters, the cacti were much taller, like redwood trees. Not to mention that they were purple. There were no stars in the sky, and the atmosphere was slightly grey, like a light fog was lingering over the area. About two miles away, there was a thick forest that looked to be in the middle of winter, while in the other directing, there was a vast ocean with a very small harbor area."You don't seem to worried England." the German nation said.

The Englishman waved at the strange area dismissively, "I'll get us out when we're done here. It's really easy."

Russia started moving forward again, "It looks normal enough in the direction we are supposed to go. So we will go now, da?"

Japan shook Prussia out of his stupor and gestured to resume walking. Prussia followed Japan, yet still looked slightly amazed, "Weird...but awesome."

England also began making his way towards the ruins, as did France. Germany looked up at the sky directly above the ruins, which still had stars. The air had no trace of fog, and the cacti were normal sized and green. He decided to focus on this as he turned his back on the Nevernever and began climbing towards the other nations.

At the top of the hill, the entire group happened upon a large courtyard area. France looked around, "From here it looks like zere are more buildings."

Japan almost seemed to be in awe, "It's an entire complex."

There were tri-level buildings surrounding the courtyard, almost like a small city. Although it looked completely abandoned. There were relics like smashed pottery and beads, as if the inhabitants had left in a hurry. The buildings looked really decrepit. Some looked fine, save for a few cracks here and there. Yet others were simply piles of rubble, where there were once great structures.

Germany opened his mouth, "We-"

Prussia interrupted him, "No, we are not splitting up to search for clues, Scooby-Doo!"

France tried unsuccessfully to cover his laugh with a cough. Germany glared at both of them. "And you have a better idea?" he demanded.

England caught everyone's attention by pointing toward the back. "We could go toward that rather large and suspicious looking half collapsed building with purple light coming from one of the windows." he said innocently.

Russia nodded contemplatively, "That would probably be the best idea."

Germany looked toward the aforementioned building, "I don-...oh. Alright then, let's use England's idea."

Prussia watched the wavering purple light, "I sense an end to our little adventure."

Japan started to make his way to the building, "Then let's finish this."

Another chapter done. I've had this one written for a while, but I kept forgetting to update the story with it. My apologies to any who grew impatient.

Thanks for all the reviews and such! Each one is like getting a delicious cupcake for me to enjoy!

Later dudes. ^J^