A/N: Thank you for entrusting me with your imagination thus you for reading! Please leave a lil' nice review won't ya? And dear cellphone readers such as myself: sorry it's so long to have to be scrolling down! xD
P.S. Sorry for the random Japan's POV. ^.^
(Flashback Event): A few days after WW2 was declared over in paper but not in battle, a World Meeting was held…
Japan's POV
"We've got to stop Russia! He is clearly determined on taking over the world!" exclaimed America as he slammed a fist on the table. All the glasses on the wooden thing trembled at the force. He leered at everyone; he seems vent on stopping Russia.
"I disagree. Clearly we have more important things to worry about like repairing the European economy," voiced England as he sat back in his chair with crossed arms.
"I think we should restrain Russia; he's clearly building up an army for something. He's done so much damage already as it is," mumbled China as he nervously looked through his papers.
While everyone that took a major part in the war sat on one end of the table, it was quite different from the other side's atmosphere.
"Hey Sweden, have you been eating alright?" asked Denmark as he turned to his left neighbor. Sweden stared blankly at the paperwork in front of him, completely paled. He didn't stir as Denmark shook his arm a little.
"It's no use. He's been like that since . . . you know," whispered Norway right besides Denmark. The blond only frowned as he turned angrily to Sweden.
"Why didn't you stop him? Why didn't you stop him from taking our Finland? !" the Danish cried as he grabbed at Sweden's collar. The man didn't look up as Denmark shook him. Soon some of the nations turned to the two. It was really quite a sad sight to see.
"Leave him alone Denmark," growled Norway pulling on the man's arms.
"You ass! How could you not be pissed! It's all your fault your psychotic friend took him! Now we rarely get to see him! And when we do, Finland's all quiet and sad! How could you!" he began to cry as tears streamed down his reddening face. It irritated him that Sweden didn't stir at anything. He just stared blankly at the Danish man.
"Please calm down sir," mumbled Austria sitting a good five seats away from the small group, "please don't make a scene," he begged.
"Scene? I'll show you scene!" yelled Denmark as he began to stand on his seat. As much as Norway and Iceland tried convincing the man to come down, Denmark refused. The man raised his arms and pointed a thumb at his puffed out chest.
"You know what I think? This meeting is useless! We're just sitting here like old rotting beings, helpless against some crazy old coot! Well I've had just about enough! We should all just march up to Russia and give him a what for!" he exclaimed so as everyone could hear. The whole room turned to the man wide eyed.
"None of us are capable of doing so in our current condition! You don't think I'd like to punch the blockhead a couple of times? !" yelled England waving his casted arm at Denmark's direction.
"I agree with Denmark!" yelled Poland as he stood up from his chair all bandaged up. Switzerland helped the wobbly man stand up straight, "Lithi is being beaten down there along with Estonia and Latvia working them to death!"
A big commotion started.
"That's right!"
"It's not fair to them!"
"Alright you old pricks!" laughed Prussia as he got up in his seat and joined Denmark, "we should totally kick his ass! Who cares if we're injured! If we all pull together we can outwit him!"
"Prussia is right!"
"We should all gather together and put our differences aside!"
"The violence must cease right now!"
Others soon began standing on their chairs joining the blond and albino.
"Then it's settled," mumbled America as he leaned back in his seat with a serious expression, "we all get together to take him and his communist self down!"
As a small break was called out, everyone dispersed.
Italy, Germany, Prussia and I all sat together in a bench outside in the snowy cold. The wind was still pretty icy in France's home, all the plants and trees that would usually be rarely alive during this season dead and withered out.
"You think we should join them too?" asked Italy unsure as he scratched the top of his head. Germany sat quietly in between us, no expression visible on his stoic face.
"I don't care. They're going to harass me whether I help or not anyway. I'm just tired is all," he mumbled looking away, "I don't want anything to do with that monster."
Prussia was the first to bolt up from his seat.
"C'mon West! I know you've had it hard! But we all have to stick together and help out! It doesn't matter what the had-been Allies think anymore!" he exclaimed waving his hands franticly.
"No," mumbled Germany shaking his head a little. He fingered his gloved hands nervously as he shifted away from Italy and his brother. I frowned deeply.
Germany had called me the second he betrayed Russia by now sharing any of the land he obtained during one of the WW2 battles from Poland. He seemed like he had finished sobbing because his voice kept cracking.
(Flashback within flashback).
"Germany-san? What's wrong?" I asked on the phone.
"J-Japan," he huffed weekly.
"I heard the news about you undermining Russia. Are you sure that was a good move? That was very hasty and unwise," I criticized as he grabbed at a cup of tea sitting on my desk.
"N-no. I didn't want to. I had to," he stuttered nervously.
"Germany-san, is something wrong?"
He began to sob on the other end.
"Germany-san? What's wrong? What happened? You sound terrified? Are you alright? If it's about Russia, don't worry, I can help you," I nervously said to try and calm him down.
"Japan, he's been doing things I don't like," he huffed between sobs. I raised my brows fearing the worst.
"Was it torture? Did he torture you?" I asked calmly to try and put him at ease.
"N-no. Not at all. It's . . . beyond that. C-can you keep a secret?" he asked as he calmed down. I could hear him clearing his nose with small sniffles as he coughed to regain his old strong voice.
"Of course Germany-san," I replied as I leaned in my seat expecting the worst. I had heard a lot of stories. Terrible torture and brutal stories. Germany was going thru a sadist time himself with his current crazy boss and his orders, but Russia . . . he enjoyed the work his boss currently gave him.
"He's had his way with me. Repeatedly," he mumbled.
"What?" I couldn't help but voice.
"You can't tell anyone. Not my brother, not Italy, not any bosses. No one," he pleaded.
"But Germany-san . . . are you sure?"
"Of course I'm sure!" he screamed, "I know what rape is!"
I stayed quiet, not knowing what to say.
"He's done that to Lithuania and China too," he explained. I felt my head spin.
"C-China?" I uttered. My big brother?
"He showed them to me. Pictures. And he has recorders. He made us listen to it. He made us listen while we did it."
I felt the room spinning. How could . . . how could someone do such a thing?
"Why?" I asked angrily," why would he do this!" I yelled as I slammed my fist on the table. I felt like crying now.
" . . . ," Germany kept quiet on the other end.
"H-how could he . . . overpower you?" I asked knowing I was venturing dangerous and very unstable matters.
" . . . I don't want to talk anymore."
Silence.
I know Russia liked playing mind games. It's what he did to get China to come his way and how they began a relationship I and everyone else was aware about. What bothered me was how it abruptly ended and how Russia seemed so relaxed and calm while China had almost of a mental breakdown and refused to see anyone for a couple of days.
Now whenever Russia was brought up, it's as if he found anything he could use to get back at the man and give him reason to fight him. It might seem weird but America seemed the same way too. He was hell bent on attacking Russia at any cost. Almost angered at the man over some past issue. But what?
As an image of the usually carefree and easily distracted blond man popped in my head, a small blush crept in my cheeks. I slapped at my forehead. This is no time to be fantasizing about the man's fascinating features!
"I understand," I answered back as I sighed, "but we must eventually tell everyone. Or at least the older nations who can come to sympathize with you and the other two."
"Not Italy," the man said immediately,"not him. Not ever."
My frown twitched as I became a little saddened. Of course not Italy. Never the go-lucky brunette that practically looked up to Germany-san.
"Okay," I said, "would you like me to declare war against Russia then?" I asked as I raised my pen.
" . . . yes," he responded. I heard a dial tone and jotted down his request. This is war, nothing but war. In war, horrible atrocities and unjust crimes happen. Every one of us has taken part in it.
I put my pen down as I moved my desk calendar a little.
There's no telling anyone to just 'get over it'. If people could I'm sure they would. But then there's detestation and malevolence. Things that push people to hurting others.
I glance at a glossy and worn out picture of America I took a little before the WWs and feel my eyes narrow at his wonderful and permanent smile looking up at me. I can't help to smile.
You have to tell others about the hurt, or it could spiral into a sort of obsession. A dangerous and out of control obsession. Maybe that is what's taking place here before our eyes.
(Flashback within Flashback ends).
"West, what's the matter?" asked Prussia annoyed, voicing out what the rest of us thought. I shifted uncomfortably; knowing what stopped Germany from wanting to help the others into stopping Russia and rescue his almost-slaved nations stuck doing what he demanded of them.
"Leave me alone, alright! I said I don't want to help! I want to deal with the WW2 aftermath. That's it. I don't care about Russia, I have other things to worry about!" yelled Germany as he stood up glaring at his brother. The two stared at the man a little startled at the defensive response. Prussia just raised his chin.
"Something's bothering you. I know it. It's because of Russia, right?" Prussia asked as he stuck his chin up. Germany stared taken aback. I did so too; did he figure out what Russia had done to his little brother?
"What's bothering you Germany? Please tell us so we can help you get over it! I want to see you smiling again!" cried Italy as he grabbed at the man's sleeve. Oh Italy, your sweet, glossy eyes are enough to bring Germany to tears. The German just faced his back at his friends.
"Leave me alone," he mumbled as he walked away from us.
"Tch, fine. You sulk however much you want you twerp! I'll get to the bottom of it! Just wait and see! I'll make everyone forget about that brute fool so we can all get back to living peacefully again!" laughed Prussia as he pointed at his brother that walked away. He then cleared a few tears from his eyes as he stomped in the snow towards the building.
"P-Prussia-!" cried Italy as he headed for the albino. I grabbed on his sleeve.
"Leave me alone. I wanna think a little," mumbled Prussia not turning around. As he disappeared inside the building, I sat Italy and I down back on the bench when we heard a small hum in front of us.
"Hello Japan," Austria greeted me.
"Hello Austria," I saluted back. Besides me Italy began to cry.
"Austria Austria! They got in a big fight!" the boy cried as he grabbed at Austria's shoulders. Austria stared back dumbfounded.
"W-what? The two knuckleheads?" asked Austria.
"Yes!" sobbed Italy in his chest. Austria pulled the boy away.
"Calm down Italy. You know how those two are. Germany's just gloomy from the war and stuff. Why don't you go cheer him up and stop pestering him about something he's a little shy to talk about now," mumbled the Austrian. Italy shook his head.
"Your right! That's brilliant! I'll go ask him what he wants to go eat later today!" he cried joyfully as he ran down the cement path Germany had taken. Austria quietly sighed as he sat beside me.
"I know," he mumbled, "he told me."
I turn to him wide eyed.
"He did?" I asked, "Does Prussia know?"
"No, Germany promised me not to tell the fool. Of all people he wants Prussia and Italy not to know. He's still freaked about the whole incident. He says he can't even bring himself to sleep at night without locking all the doors and asking me to check the whole room at night. I still bunk in with him from time to time to make sure he and Prussia are . . er . . doing alright," he said nervously as he gave a small cough to his fist.
"Lithuania, China and Germany are all in the same boat," I informed him as I glanced at the environment around us, "Finland along with the rest of the Baltic states are under his control. So are his sisters."
"I hear. None of them came to the meeting today. Lithuania is currently Russia's new . . . playmate if you will. The boy is clueless about what Russia has been doing. Russia probably played the 'lonely' card on him.," he said crossing his arms in disapproval.
"Does anyone really know about these things?" I asked curiously.
"No. But I am glad America is so bent on taking the man down or those affected by their missing fellowmen would have no voice in these meetings. Um, pardon me to ask but where did Prussia go?" asked the brunette as he turned a little pink. I raised a brow.
"Why?"
"W-well I have to, um, lecture him to not make such improper outbursts like he did back there. Everyone eyed him like he was some sort of candy or something. I don't have to explain myself here! Do you know where he is or not!" cried Austria annoyed as he turned to me angered. I raised my hands in defense.
"I'm sorry Austria-san, my apologies. He headed for the bathroom stalls on the East wing of the building," I stuttered terrified at the cross expression the Austrian bore into my eyes. He sighed as he relaxed his tensed shoulders.
"Good, he's not too far off. The meeting will resume in a while, best be heading back inside," he said as he turned around and headed for Prussia's direction. I soon stood up and headed inside.
As I walked in, I noticed a lot of people still standing outside the room where we were dismissed from. A paper sign saying "IN A MINUTE" scribbled down by America's sloppy and hasty handwriting was taped on the door handles.
"He's talking things out with the bosses," I heard someone mumble. I sighed as I quietly went to the way end of the hallway to stall some time and reclined quietly against the carpeted red wall. It was a wonderfully building really; beautifully furnished. Too bad there was too much work and things to worry about to be admiring furniture.
"Japan."
I turned to see Sweden glaring down at me with an unwelcoming leer. I tremble a little.
"H-Hello Sweden-san," I greeted as I gave him a small bow.
"Do you think Finland's okay?" he asked. I raised my brows as the once scary and unmoving man in front of me looked at me with pleading and sensitive eyes. I blushed and shifted uncomfortably.
"Finland?" I asked. Everyone pretty much knew Sweden was very much fond of the Finnish boy and cared for him deeply. That's why nobody ever messed with the almost-Italy like blond while he was around Sweden especially. It almost made Japan laugh how similar Sweden and Finland seemed compared to Germany and Italy.
"He's working for Russia and rarely visits," mumbled Sweden as he leaned on the wall across Japan, "he can't tell us much of what he's doing."
"Does he seem miserable?" I asked.
"No; I think he's hiding it from us. What should I do?" he asked as a faint pink crept up his cheeks.
I stared back startled. I've never had a conversation with either of the two. Especially Sweden. He didn't seem like the type to talk unless deemed necessary and even if it did, he just gave a nod or shake of the head. I scratched at the back of my neck.
"Oh. I . . . I'm not sure," I mumbled. I flinch as the man's frown moved slightly. I wanted to give myself a pinch for making the man even more worried.
"Hey you guys, what are you doing all the way back here?" asked America popping out of nowhere. I shudder at his touch as he pulled me and Sweden close, his arms around our necks.
"Is the meeting starting up again?" I asked trying to distract myself room my fast beating heart. Sweden looked at me oddly. My discomfort must be obvious. A piece of paper flashed through my mind and I bit my lip. How did a piece of paper earn its spot in my memory?
"America, what's happening to Russia?" asked Sweden as he pulled away from America's embrace. I pulled away too after seeing Sweden done so.
"We're going to fight back, of course. He's done nothing but double-cross us all. The commie," stated America as he gave him a blank expression.
"You can't," he mumbled. We both stare at Sweden perplexed.
"Why not?" asked America with a dangerous tone.
"Just because he's something you don't like doesn't mean it justifies the harm you can bring him," said Sweden as he returned America's tone. I could feel the atmosphere between them become thick.
"Why so bent on protecting Russia, eh?" asked America angered. Sweden stood his ground. At this, America crossed his arms as he gave a small pout of the mouth.
"But Sweden," he said with a suspicious pause, "he took Finland."
At that, Sweden's eyes widened.
"How can we not stop someone who is taking advantage of poor innocent countries? He's probably working them to death. I hear he tortures," explained America with a raised brow as he looked at us with a coy smile.
"America!" I exclaimed astounded by his extreme lack of sensitivity. I grabbed his tux sleeve, "you mustn't say such horrible things!"
He pulled away from me and leered back annoyed.
"If you ask me, some of them deserve it," he spat. That's when I see Sweden grab at America's collar, lifting him from the floor.
"Hurts, doesn't it? Knowing the person you so much adore is with someone else who cares nothing for them the way you do," frowned America as he lost his breath.
"Sweden!" exclaimed someone down the hall. I grabbed at Sweden's arm holding America up.
"Please Mr. Sweden! This is no help. We are all here to bring Finland and the others back to us safely!"I huffed as I tried moving his stiff arms.
"The pain will never go away. It'll eat you up little by little and push you to your limit. I hope it eats you up, just like it has me," America breathed. Sweden gave a small growl.
"Please leave my America alone!" I gave another small cry. Sweden turned to me startled and plopped America back to his feet. I helped him stand up properly as he caught his breath, coughing roughly.
"What do you think you're doing!" scolded Iceland as he and the other two Nordic nations stood behind Sweden. The tall Blond turned to them with an embarrassed expression.
"I . . . I'm sorry," he said under his breath as he looked down.
"Are you alright America?" asked Norway turning to us. America waved a hand to his as he forced a smile.
"It's alright, I asked for it," he laughed.
"This is abnormal behavior for you Sweden," said Norway as he turned sharply to face the man.
"What were you thinking!"
"That was totally uncalled for Mr. Responsible," said Denmark with a frown.
"Please, don't scold him," I butted in. All five nations turned to me.
"He's very stressed and misses Finland dearly. Sure he acted rational, but please understand how much he misses Mr. Finland. I apologize Mr. Sweden," I gave a small curt bow.
Before Sweden could open his mouth to say something, we all heard a sharp scream coming down the hall. First America, then Denmark then soon the rest of us dashed towards the front doors of the meeting room.
"What? What is it?" asked France worriedly as he tried calming Austria who came in running into the hallway only to fall to his knees breathlessly in front of the meeting room.
"Que pasa? (What's wrong?) Why so pale? Did something happen?" asked Spain as he rubbed circles at the back of Austria's back. America shoved his way through the crowd. Austria didn't look up at anyone as small sobs came from his mouth. On the other side Germany and Italy forced their way thru the crowd.
"Austria? What's the matter?" asked Italy as he bent over the man.
"Alright everyone step away, give some space," yelled America waving his hands for everyone to take a few steps back. As I tried to get a good peak of it, I felt a sturdy hand grab at my wrist and pull me to the front. I looked up to see Sweden leading us to the front of the crowd.
"Austria-san?" I asked in a calm voice as Sweden finally pulled us through the crowd.
"He took him," finally whispered Austria. Everyone grew silent.
"Took? Who took whom?" asked Germany as he went for bending in front of Austria. The brunette suddenly shot his arms out and grabbed Germany's shoulders.
"He took him! Russia took him!" cried Austria as Germany and I noticed the dark brown tie he shoved into Germany's hand. It belonged to Prussia.
"N-no . . . ," the man uttered as his eyes shook with horror. Austria clung to Germany as he sobbed.
"I couldn't hold him for long! He just took him! I turned for a second and he was being dragged through an outside window! I'm so sorry Germany! I couldn't protect him! I'm sorry!" cried Austria as he sobbed into Germany's pants. The German stared blankly into space.
"G-Germany?" muttered Italy as he shook at the blonde's arm to no use.
"Give some room!" cried France as he shooed people away who began to chat away at the events unfolding before them.
"Everyone out!" cried Spain as they helped Austria stand up, still sobbing. As everyone was forced to go away from the breaking down Austrian, I walked up to Germany, worried about his absence of emotion.
"Germany-san?" I muttered as I reached to touch at the hand that held his brother's usual brown tie.
"I'll never forgive him," uttered Germany as he trembled.
"What?"
"I'll never let him live it down if he hurts my brother!" he yelled as he turned and made a run for it.
"Germany-san!"
"Germany!"
Italy ran after him. As I was about to run, Sweden grabbed at my wrist.
"What use is it to be angry?" he asked with a puzzled innocence. I gave him a small frown.
"It helps those that are helpless," I answered as I turned and ran for Germany-san's direction. At that, Sweden stared blankly before running after me.
We all ran outside into the snowy patio were the East wing of the building was. In the pitch dark we could see the light coming from the bathroom stalls and the small, narrow windows from the stalls poking through the bottom underground floor where the bathroom stalls were located. There I could see footsteps and what appeared to be a trail of something being dragged by its feet.
Germany stared at the open window where he could spot little of Prussia' usual blue uniform's torn cloth waiving in the faint breeze.
He bucked to his knees.
Sweden stood the farthest away, knowing he was intruding in their private moment. Everyone else was already outside and dispersed by the north part of the building, a good 20 meters away from us.
Germany began to punch at the snow angrily as he began crying.
"Why? Why you? WHY!" he cried angrily as tears poured down. Italy stood besides Germany, crying silently. Hearing a faint noise, both Sweden and I turned to the building diagonal from us at a small crowd gathering in front of a cement platform. There I could spot America standing up.
"It was Russia, you here? This is what happens if we play nice with paper and pens instead of action!" he cried. I shook my head slightly with disapproval.
No America-san. This isn't the way to handle things.
Austria was quietly led towards us with the help of France and Spain, Prussia's closet friends, with Romano not too far off behind.
Sweden stepped besides me.
"He seems upset," he mumbled quietly. I turned to him puzzled.
"He's always so rash," I mutter.
"This is no good. Nothing good will come out of it. Seeking violence like this."
We all look surprised to see someone run up to America and hand him a sheet of paper.
"Look what we have here!" cried America waving the yellow paper, "it seems Russia has taken Prussia and half of Berlin!"
We all stare taken aback. I turn to Germany who stares at America wide eyed. The other nations there begin to scream and lift angered fists.
"Something must be done!"
"We must save them all!"
"That brute!"
Sweden shifted uncomfortably. I turn to face him. He was clearing something from his eyes, probably tears.
I looked over to see Denmark and the others head our way.
"That bastard, huh?" the blond Danish mumbled, "Just couldn't be satisfied with three."
Behind the large crowd I spotted China with Hong Kong, Taiwan and South Korea trying to comfort their elder. My face saddened. I clenched my fists.
"We must save them all! No matter what! As the leader of the allies it is my duty to help Germany take his brother back!" exclaimed America. The crowd cheered.
"They're going to fight Russia," mumbled Norway.
Sweden sat down on the snow, unable to take in the horrible sentence his friend Russia had received. He grabbed at his forehead.
"There's nothing we can do now," mumbled Iceland as he patted Sweden's back. Sweden shook his head. I stared sadly at America's big smile as everyone decided to help aid the Allies in their fight to help Germany get Prussia back.
"-Sigh-. Just when I thought the fighting was over," said France as he patted Austria's back. Romano stood beside's his brother as Italy raised Germany up.
"I miss Finland," mumbled Sweden as he looked up at the dark sky.
"Do you?" asked Norway in an indifferent voice as he looked up along with Sweden.
"I miss him too," said Iceland staring up at the sky and grabbed at Sweden's small blue cape that was part of his uniform.
"Yeah but not as much as me," butted in Denmark with a small smile as he looked up as well. They all stared at the full moon.
"There, Finland is looking at us too," pointed out Sweden. The other three nodded.
"Look!" squawked Puffin as he came flying at the Nordics. Behind him a small, yellow bird flew against the breeze towards Austria. The small bird sat atop his head exhausted as it begun tugging at his Mariazell.
"G-Gilbird?" uttered Austria as he grabbed the chick.
"L-look! It's Gilbird!" cried Austria as he raised the chick for Germany to see. Germany ran up to the Austrian along with Italy and Romano.
"It's Gilbird! Prussia must have sent him!" cried Austria almost crying. German looked at the bird with teary eyes.
"I never thought I'd be so happy to look at him," he smiled weakly.
As the small European nation crowd gathered around the bird, feeling a little more comforted for Prussia, Japan glanced at Sweden. The man stared back and cracked a small, weak smile.
Things might seem hopeless but enjoying the little things is always better than doing nothing at all. I closed my eyes remembering the piece of paper I had remembered earlier.
It was America's sloppy handwritten confession to Russia. Japan had been passing by, assigned to infiltrate for Germany while they were still in the middle of WW2. He picked it up out of curiosity.
He now understood what Sweden had been saying earlier. America was just acting out because of Russia and his feelings going unrecognized. At this I blush slightly and look down at my feet.
"Something wrong?" asked Sweden as he quietly stepped towards me. I looked out of the corner of my eye to see the Nordics and European nations talking amongst themselves.
"Yes," I answered as I turned back to America, "they're going to cry about Finland when they get home, huh?"
Sweden nodded; "will they cry about Prussia when they get home?"
"Most certainly," I replied as I clutched at the end of my black jacket.
"One day this'll all go away, right?" he asked turning to me. I stare back with a small smile.
"We can only hope."
He returned the smile as we joined the others.
(End of flashback event).
Finland stared at America's wide, blue eyes in horror. He blinked twice before he felt the warm liquid pouring on the front of his uniform.
"America?" mumbled Japan as he looked up from his spot in the steps.
America began to cough as he covered his gunshot wound. Blood poured from out of his side as he tightened his eyes in pain.
"It hurts!" he cried in agony. Finland pulled himself up from America as he stared down in horror. He looked at the gun in his right hand.
Did I . . . did I just shoot someone?
America began hacking.
"America!" cried the robotic Japan as he forced himself up and walked up the steps towards the man. As soon as Japan hunched over to the blond, America shoved him away and pointed at Finland.
"Get –cough- him. Leader wants him!"
"But America," replied Japan calmly. He then rubbed at the back of his neck, feeling a burning sensation.
"Get to Finland you –cough- fool!" hissed the man as he kicked at Japan away. Finland stared at the two not knowing what to do.
I shot someone in cold blood. What have I done?
Finland turned to the railway and flung the gun down the stairway in hopes of it never being recovered.
"Japan!" growled America, "capture Finland! That's an order!" he screamed as he covered a part of the side of his stomach, blood dripping out from it. The blond trembled as he forced himself to sit up.
Japan glanced at Finland with a nervous look. Soon the burning sensation stopped as he stood up with an indifferent face once again.
I have to do something about America!
Finland bolted towards the short man and tackled him to his side. He began to pull him down. Japan struggled against his grip.
"C'mon Japan! Even Italy can handle better!" cried America annoyed almost laughingly.
"Italy?" repeated Finland with wide eyes. Italy was under Russia's control as well? But how . . . when were they all turned into his minions?
Japan grabbed Finland's neck and shoved him roughly to the cement ground where a staircase ended crossed with one that began.
"Ah!" gasped Finland as Japan's hands made themselves tighter.
"Do as you are told and no harm will come to you," mumbled Japan unfazed as Finland kept struggling. He became light headed as he gasped for air.
"Sve . . . ,"he gasped as he reached for Japan's face.
"Belarus you bitch!" angrily hissed America, "help me!" he screamed as he reached his spare arm to the cement ceiling at the small intercom.
"No can do," said Belarus on the intercom, "I'm busy tying the boy down again."
America began to hack up blood as he growled in frustration.
"J-Japan . . . ," uttered Finland as he grabbed at the man's face. Japan made no move as he continued to choke him.
"Y-you have to help America," said Finland as Japan's grip tightened.
"I have orders to follow," responded the man robotically, "he is replaceable."
"Y-you have to help him. He'll die Japan! Don't you love him?"
Japan's eyes widened at this. A faint pink crept up his cheeks.
"Love?" he asked as if it sounded like a foreign word. Finland gave a small nod.
"S-Sve told me so," smiled Finland.
"I do love America?" responded Japan in an indifferent tone as if he were realizing it himself, "but what does that matter now? He doesn't love me back."
"H-how do you know that's true? H-have y-you ever t-tried telling h-him?"
"No," responded the man shaking his head slowly.
"G-go on," breathed Finland, "t-tell him."
The boy then collapsed out of breath. Japan took his hands off Finland's neck. He leaned over and put his ear above the man's chest. He could hear a faint thud. A faint heartbeat still kept the boy alive. Japan then turned to the hacking man.
"W-what are you –cough- doing? Bring him to Russia!" cried America angrily.
"He is unconscious," explained Japan as he took out his key and slid it in a gray pad beside's the metal door to the ninth floor.
"W-what are you –cough- doing?" asked America. The small Japanese man opened the door and poked his head out.
"Nurse. This man needs assistance," mumbled Japan. A nurse and soon doctor walked towards the strange acting fellow. As they stepped inside they saw America soaking in his own blood and Finland passed out.
"Quick! Equipment!" cried the doctor. Soon two nurses ran inside and checked over America and Finland. Japan quietly walked down the steps to retrieve the weapon.
"N-no! Leave me be!" struggled America as two male nurses pinned him down.
"Sir, stop moving around! You're infecting the wound!" cried the doctor.
"N-no! I have to stop them all! I have t-to . . . ," America quieted down as gas entered his system. His movements ceased as everything became quiet and still in his vision. Japan picked up the gun and held it closely to himself as he petted the cold metal.
"Capture everyone and bring them to me and you shall be rewarded," his Leader, Russia, had instructed. He, Italy, America, and Belarus all stood during his talk a couple weeks prior.
"How will we get them here to the hospital?" asked America in a quiet manner as he raised his hand to speak. Russia, in his white doctor's coat, sharply turned to the four standing in his office.
"They'll come on their own. Something is bound to happen to those two with this icy weather. Judging by Finland's stupid modesty and Sweden's hospital phobia, he'll be here for Finland's benefit. Meanwhile you three," Russia pointed at Italy, Japan and America, "will be allowed to behave as you normally do."
"Really Leader?" asked Italy with a somewhat surprised tone. Russia pulled out a remote and demonstrated it to them.
"This will allow me to control you three. At the push of a button, you will go back to this state of mind. Alright?"
"Yes Leader," mumbled Japan, Italy and Belarus in unison. America stood quietly looking away.
"Huh? What is it America?" asked Russia with a blank face expression.
"Sir, why are we doing all this again?" asked America as he rubbed his arm. Russia grinned. The patches were supposed to suppress and keep everyone in line and away from emotion. However America hadn't been that much affected from the emotional suppression. Only certain emotions slipped out. Russia took out a clipboard as he wrote down America's reaction to the patch.
"You question my actions? My my do we have to remove your ability to talk?" giggled Russia. Everyone paled and tensed up.
"N-no sir! I'm sorry!"apologized America as he gave a small bow.
"Good. I want Sweden and Germany. Do not hesitate to bring judgment on to those you see fit asking for it. Let us say I do not fear bringing an all out war for my obsession," he smiled darkly at them.
"Have you before?" asked Japan.
"Why yes. It is what made Germany push me away. The fool," mumbled Russia as they heard wood splint. That was the end of the wooden clipboard. As Russia sat the things down on a table besides him he turned to them again with a warm smile.
"Please remember I can dispose of you easily. And be certain that your normal selves don't want to be disposed. What you do during this state of mind is out of your control. I call all the shots here. If you let me down . . . I will punish you."
The four bowed.
"You may leave now."
Soon after, America, Italy and himself walked out of the hospital. As soon as they reached their car, Russia pressed on the remote from beyond the glass window he was observing them from. The three snatched out of their trances. Belarus watched along with Russia as the three clueless men drove off, wondering what they were doing in a hospital's parking lot.
It's wrong. I know this is wrong. Said Japan to himself as he pointed the pistol downwards. He put the safety back on as he slipped it in his coat.
He walked up the stairs and took a glance at America and Finland as medics picked them up.
How do I know I love America? Japan asked himself as he stared at the wall. He felt the back of his neck burn.
"Hey there," one of the doctors's called Japan, "your friend will be fine. He's waking up."
Japan glanced at Finland whose eyes were halfway open.
How does he know I love America? Does he know my normal me?
"It's alright. You'll be okay little fella. You were out of breath," said one of the female nurses calming Finland down.
"M-make sure to help America," breathed Finland as he struggled to sit up, "he was shot."
Maybe he can help me escape Leader.
At the thought, Japan's neck began to burn. He began to scream as he fell to his knees.
"What's wrong?" asked a nurse standing besides the man. Japan pointed to the back of his neck. There the nurse saw blood dripping from what looked like a patch. She went to grab for it, only to give her a small shock.
"Ouch!" she squeaked.
"Please, take it off!" cried Japan as he tried scratching at it. Soon, a loud slam of the metal door swung open.
"Miss?" some of the nurses voiced as they saw the nurse, Belarus, always around Dr. Russia appears before them. She held a wheelchair behind her.
"Bring both these patients to my usual work room," she mumbled as she turned to Japan and narrowed her eyes.
"Belarus! My neck! It won't stop stinging! What did I do wrong?" he mumbled as his eyes began to tear up at the sides.
"Leader will not be amused by you," said Belarus as she lifted the man by the collar roughly onto the wheelchair.
"W-what's going on?" asked the Japanese man as he shook in the seat. The doctors and nurses helping America and Finland glanced at the man worriedly.
"He is a delusional patient," she mumbled as she turned, "I must take care of him immediately."
She rolled the wheel chair away as she poked a small tacer from her sleeve.
"B-Belarus?" uttered Japan terrified at hearing a faint buzzing sound behind him.
"Sweet dreams," she whispered as she administered a small shock to the back of his neck. Japan opened his mouth to let out a small scream, but after five seconds of no noise coming out, he sat limp to the left side of the wheelchair as Belarus finished strapping him down.
"Leader, America is down. Japan has betrayed you with evil thoughts. Sealand and now Finland has been captured though," mumbled Belarus in a small watch to her wrist.
"Place another patch on them. Double the amount," mumbled Russia as he sat at the edge of a bed in a dark room. As Russia clicked at the small wrist watch, he began to finish pulling up his doctor's coat now fully dressed again. He stood up as he turned to his right and narrowed his eyes at Sweden who was sound asleep.
"Sleepy people are no fun," he smiled as he reached for a bag under the bed and pulled out some new clothes. He turned to face Sweden and pulled the blanket off him as he sat him up by force.
Something must have been keeping him up at night.
"It's alright, we'll give it another try later tonight," smiled Russia as he began dressing the sleeping blond.
Small Russia sat on one of the small, wooden chairs in the lodge of the other Nordic nations. Young Denmark couldn't help but keep staring at the silver haired boy sitting across from him.
"Stop it," mumbled a small Norway kicking at Denmark from under the table.
"Ouch! It's not my fault I don't know who he is!" squeaked Denmark as he pointed at Russia's amused face.
"Who is he Sweden?" asked Iceland who sat a chair away from Russia turning to the blond boy as he put plates in front of them all.
"My friend," mumbled Sweden as he turned to grab at a plastic bowl sitting on the counter.
"That's Russia," informed Norway as he leaned over to the bowl Sweden demonstrated to him, picking thru the fresh baked pastries.
"Russia?" trembled Iceland and Denmark.
"You know me?" asked Russia as he turned to them still smiling.
"Oh do we," shivered Denmark as he shoved a bunch of pastries onto his plate.
"Um, may I speak with you in private Sweden?" asked Iceland nervously. Before Sweden could nod the shortest silver haired boy yanked on his arm and pulled him to their small living room.
"Why did you bring him here?" whispered Iceland as he shook on the boy's small shoulders.
"He wanted to come along. A problem?"
"Yes! He's with those bandits we've been hearing about terrorizing other countries! He'll beat us up for sure!" cried Iceland.
"But he's my friend. Friends don't do that to friends," mumbled Sweden. Iceland smacked his forehead.
"Dude! Hungry killers don't care if they're friends with their prey!" cried Denmark as he popped from behind Sweden and began shaking him. Sweden pulled away from the both annoyed.
"That is very rude," he mumbled as he narrowed his eyes, "you should apologize."
"But Sweden!" cried Iceland.
"No more stories," scolded Sweden as he put a finger over his mouth.
"Sve," mumbled Denmark with wide eyes as he dramatically turned Sweden to himself, "he. Is. Evil!"
"You sound like Finland," mumbled the man as he pulled away and stood by the kitchen doorway that hung dark brown curtains blinding anyone from seeing in one room and vice versa.
"Look, just watch," Denmark whispered as he stopped Sweden from stepping past the curtains.
"Please," Iceland begged standing behind Sweden trembling. Sweden stared at the small Icelander's eyes before sighing in agreement.
Just to humor them. He thought.
Denmark pulled a little of the curtain's to the side so they could all see whatever Russia and Norway were doing while under the impression of not being watched.
Norway sat picking through some of the dough pastries from the bowl. He counted five in everyone else's plates and wanted to make it even. As he placed some on Russia's, Russia would eat one, Norway would put another to make up for it, then Russia would eat it again. The maddening cycle continued.
"That's it?" whispered Sweden, "you call that a hungry killer?"
"Shh!" the other two shushed.
"Russia," the small Norwegian mumbled, "will you please stop eating till everyone gets back."
"Nnnnnnn-no," the small boy smiled as he pulled the bowl from Norway and began eating some more.
"Hey!" fumed Norway, "that's not fair to everyone!"
"Is that so?" mumbled Russia. He then grabbed a small handful of the stuff and shoved it in Norway's mouth.
"Mff!" cried the boy as Russia ignored him. The other three's faces paled.
" . . . still not buying it," mumbled Sweden.
"Watch this then," mumbled Denmark as he walked past the curtains and sat in his seat.
"So Russia, why were you out here by yourself?" asked Denmark waving a hand with a big smile of radiating confidence.
"Heh, trying to kill you," laughed Russia. Norway began choking as Denmark paled still frozen with the smile.
"See, we told y-"
Iceland turned to see Sweden covering his mouth, refraining himself from giving a small laugh.
"Denmark asked for it," he said with a small grin.
"I was looking for Sweden," mumbled Russia continuing to eat, "where is he?" he said looking around.
"How did you two . . you know . . meet? He's talked a lot about you," said Denmark trying to recover.
"Really?" asked Russia, his face brightening up.
"Oh yes. Blabbing non stop. If you ask me he has the feelings for you," he said whispering to Russia leaning over the small table. Norway pulled the blond Danish to the floor.
"Watch what you say," mumbled Norway rubbing Denmark's face on the pastries.
"I met him on my third week after big sister Ukraine abandoned me," smiled Russia as he looked up reflecting back, "he was real sweet and gave me food and blankets. He helped me build a small house. He visits me a lot and we play snow house."
Everyone looked at the Russian taken a back.
"Sve? Social?" smiled Denmark breaking the silence, "that's hilarious!" he began laughing wildly.
"Hey, that's not very nice," grumbled Russia as he gave him an upset look.
"Well guess you and little Finni' are his new little lost puppies," grinned Denmark as he calmed himself.
Russia gave a deep frown.
"I'm nobody's lost puppy. I can take care of myself," he spat.
"Woah calm down there bro. I didn't mean it like that. You just need help like Sweden needs help learning a few socializing tips!" Denmark remarked as he sat back in his wooden chair.
"Leave my big brother alone you idiotic jerk!" cried the small Russia bolting up his chair. Everyone stared at the angry boy taken aback at such an announcement.
"Hey!" hissed Denmark as he also got up in his seat. Norway cringed at the tension between the two as they leered at each other. A small blush crept at Sweden's cheeks as Iceland shook him.
"Please interfere! Denmark's going to punch someone for sure!" whimpered Iceland shaking at the taller boy. Sweden led the two into the kitchen.
"What's going on? I heard yelling?" said Sweden as to not give their eavesdropping away.
"He called me an idiot!" spat Denmark pointing at the Russian.
"He accused us of being socially dense!" cried Russia with an innocent look.
"Wha?" said Denmark turning to the boy confounded.
"Both of you hush," ordered Sweden calmly as he sat down in his seat between Norway and Russia.
"I'd like to apologize. I was eavesdropping the whole time I was gone," confessed Sweden. Everyone's eyes widened.
"WHAT?" cried Denmark worriedly.
"The other two wanted to prove a point about you, Russia," said Sweden giving a small cough to his balled up fist nervously.
" . . . and you believed them over me?" mumbled the small Russian. Everyone turned to him confused.
"I thought I told you everything that happened to me. B-but you still doubted me? I thought w-we were . . ."
"Brothers?" Denmark reminded. Everyone saw Russia's face turn red.
"That is very bold of you, considering you've only known each other for a small while," said Norway. Russia turned to the boy sharply.
"Shut up!" he cried, "who are you to judge what I think of someone!"
"I'm sorry dude, but you're not one of us to leech off him like that," said Denmark.
"Leech off? He is my friend. I will not have you belittling him," butted in Sweden as he turned swiftly to Denmark.
"Puffin sees you two sometimes together," mumbled Iceland. The four turn to him. The small bird slept in a small nest by the kitchen stove.
"He tells me what you do. I worry when we're all alone because it's dangerous outside these days with all the big empires down and about," mumbled Iceland nervously scratching at the back of his neck.
"I k-know what you do Russia," he uttered. Everyone raised a brow at this. Meanwhile Russia's mouth twitched at his small frown.
"I don't know what you're talking about," mumbled Russia.
"D-do you want me to tell them?" asked Iceland. Russia took a defensive step back, feeling cornered. He glanced at Sweden for help.
"What's he talkin' bout'?" asked Sweden, not helping his accent.
"So . . . it's going to be them over me is it?" asked Russia in a dark voice.
"Huh?"
"You're choosing their comfort over me?" asked Russia.
"They're my friends," said Sweden, "you are my friend too."
"No! I don't want them to be your friends! I don't want to be your friend! I want you to be my big brother! Just like big sister Ukraine!" cried the boy shaking his head as he began crying. Sweden got up to hold Russia until Iceland grabbed on his sleeve.
"Puffin also saw him sticking his tongue out at Finland. He's terrified of Russia," explained Iceland looking away nervously. At that Sweden's eyes shook as he looked back at Russia, but with a more serious and crossed gaze than the understanding one he had a moment ago.
"Russia . . ,"he started.
"Yes?" mumbled the boy wiping away tears.
"Please leave," said Sweden.
"B-but-!" Russia looked up and flinched to see the angry leer Sweden gave him.
"Please," demanded Sweden. Russia stared at him wide eyed as he put his arms to his sides. He walked ahead towards the door, avoiding eye contact with everyone.
As the two stood by the doorway leading outside the lodge by themselves, Russia grabbed Sweden's sleeve.
"B-but I thought we were . . ."
"Look," said Sweden glancing back to see if the others were looking, "you are my friend no matter what they say, alright? Be nice," he pulled a warm pastry from his sleeve and into Russia's hands, "be safe."
The boy gave Russia one last small grin and closed the door gently on his face. Russia stared at the door then glanced to his left where he was the small Danish and Iceland stare at him past a window's curtains. Norway grabbed the two by the collars and pulled them away from the window.
Russia quietly walked in a straight line thru the thin dying forest as a small breeze went by as he chewed on the pastry that kept his face and hands warm. He quietly passed some large stones and then the spot where he and Sweden had departed from Finland. He narrowed his eyes at Finland's small footprints.
It's all their fault we can't be brothers.
Russia finished the pastry and walked down the same path Finland had made. He was going to take out his bottled anger at the boy.
Sweden likes me best. So did big sister. Everyone's supposed to leave us alone. They are all supposed to stay away from us. We were happy before everyone else.
Small Russia began to think back on the day Ukraine had to leave him. He was pulling the small by his hand, leading him through a small village. They finally made it outside in the middle of a cold and lonely forest. Russia woke up from his nap on his sister's back as she put him down.
"What's happening big sister?" mumbled the even younger Russia.
"Stay here and never come back," whispered her sister as she re-strapped the scarf that represented their family bond. He raised a brow.
"B-but sister! We were supposed to have a party finished for little sister! You promised to teach me to bake!" he cried as Ukraine turned around. The young girl got up on the small horse she had used to get there. Behind the horse Russia noticed a tree branch loosely tied on the horse's tail.
She gave him one more glance and rode off.
She didn't cry. She didn't explain anything to him. She didn't even say goodbye.
The branch brushed any hooves Russia could have used to follow her sister back home.
He stood by himself in the forest taking in what had just happened and began to cry.
He slept inside a hole in a tree big enough for him to crawl in and out. He wandered through the dead forest for days.
"?"
"Huh?" Russia glanced up to see a boy staring up at him he didn't notice was in the way.
"Hungry?" asked the boy as he offered a loaf of bread from a bag tied to his shoulder. Russia took it and began eating it.
Russia smiled warmly as the image of Sweden talking and helping him out on his first days alone gave him a feeling of reassurance.
He then stopped at a small cottage. The candles were out inside. Finland was asleep probably taking a nap. A dark smile crept into small Russia's face.
Norway quietly stood looking through a glass window in a room high above in the hospital building. He quietly walked back and forth, wearing a doctor's white coat. Sealand sat in a chair, unconscious in the middle of the room. The man glanced at him and then turned to the window again.
The television behind him was on the news channel talking about the local weather.
"I'm done," mumbled a low but high pitched voice that opened the door slowly and closed it right behind himself.
"Good evening Italy. How did it go?" asked Norway in a distant voice.
Italy pulled a thin knife from the inside of his blue coat.
"I managed to lead the guard and nurse mob to Spain and Romano. I can't find Germany though. He must have suspected something," he said as Italy sat on a small couch and cleaned the thin trail of blood from his knife.
"Whose blood?" asked Norway as he began pacing.
"Austria's. He was already tied down, can you believe my luck? Did you know the sight of blood makes him pass out? Figures since he's such a snobby aristocrat," the brunette giggled.
"He was here?" asked Norway.
"Yup. Broken leg so Germany informed my normal self when we got here. Where is Miss Belarus?"
"America has been shot, and Japan betrayed Leader, or had thoughts of it. Finland however is unconscious. They are going to be delivered in this room."
"I'ma go in the security room and try and find Germany. What is Leader during right now?" asked Italy as he opened the door that led the huge medical room into the security room.
"He's about to come up here. We are to leave in one of the medical helicopters not in use by the hospital."
"Alright then," smiled Italy.
"Oh; where did you cut him?" asked Norway curiously.
"Oh, just a few scratches. Nothing big," the boy smiled closing the door behind himself.
Norway felt a faint vibrating movement in his coat's pocket. He took out a cellphone and flipped it open.
"Norway speaking," he stated.
"Ukraine. How long before you get here?" the monotone girl asked at the other end.
"Just a little way's longer. We're on our way. Make sure the others are still asleep," he mumbled.
"Will do," she replied. As she closed her cellphone, she turned to the two gentlemen sitting quietly and visibly shaken. They stood in a quite large and dark living room in a home outside the city. Iceland trembled quite afraid as Ukraine, wearing her usual outfit with a white shirt and blue overlaps, took out some needles from an orange see-through plastic box.
"More shots ei?" asked Denmark with a cocky grin, "you know you'll never get away with this! Me and Sve are gonna totally kick all of your butts when he finds out Russia's kidnapping all of us! Then everyone else will arrest all of ye'!" he yelled.
Ukraine quietly made sure the needles work as it sprayed a thin, clear liquid.
Iceland's eyes shook.
"N-no! Not again! Please not again!" he cried in a faint voice that clearly sounded tired. Denmark gave a small growl.
"Leave him alone! We'll be quiet! Just leave him alone!" he yelled scooting his chair in front of Iceland.
"He's afraid of needles woman!" cried Puffin as it flapped in its cage angrily. Ukraine said nothing as she stepped closer, no fear of Denmark's obvious rage.
"I said back off!" he growled again as Iceland quietly cried, "I'll be dammed if I let anything happen to anyone I care about!"
Ukraine stopped dead in her tracks as she stared at Denmark's determined and fiery eyes.
An image of her past self crept up in her mind. She had been escaping a small village with her small baby brother Russia tied to her back. Some leaders thought it was high time she let him go. She couldn't; she refused to and tried to escape. As they did so she was confronted by one of her pursuers that raised a spear at her face as she fell of her horse, her small brother still tied to her back with his scarf.
"Leave us be!" she cried angrily, "I can't leave him behind!"
"You must or you'll die," spoke the man covered in a white cloak, no face visible. He raised the sharp spear closer to her neck, "do it or both of you die right now."
"A-alright," she finally cried defeated.
"You may never seek him out for years to come," the man warned, "and if you ever remind yourself of his existence in that time, we will come find you," he said pulling the sharp stone away. She gave a small nod.
"I-I hate him," she mumbled. The man nodded. Small Russia opened his eyes slightly, waking up.
"Go on."
"I hate him. I never wanted him. I wish he never came to my life. He has been nothing but a burden to me and my people!" she spat angrily. At this Russia shrugged. He closed his eyes, hoping this was all a dream. He quickly went back to sleep, too exhausted and hungry from the game he and his big sister were playing, so she told him.
Later she got on her horse and left Russia to fend for himself in the cold, unforgiving winter night.
As Denmark kept glaring at her, she felt a burning sensation at the back of her neck. She bit her lip angrily.
"Do it or both of you die right now," the voice of the man in white echoed in her head.
"Do it or both of you die right now," repeated Ukraine as she roughly grabbed at Denmark's hair.
"Denmark! Please, leave us alone!" cried Iceland as he tried moving his tightly bound arms from the arms of the chair they were tied to.
"Leave us be!" she had also begged and received no mercy.
"It's alright Iceland, calm down," the blond man cooed as he turned to Iceland. Ukraine had begun to administer the sleeping drug into his shoulder and into his system.
"B-but Denmark!" cried the silver haired man with trembling eyes at the Danish man's soft smile.
"It'll all be alright. Norway will come save us," he smiled as he grabbed Iceland's hand tightly. The man nodded quietly as Denmark slumped in his seat.
"Brother will come and save us," whispered Iceland to himself as Ukraine now moved to the boy. She administered the vaccine to him as well and slumped in his chair. The two men's hands let go of each other. The small bird on the other side of the room quieted down, it's throat sore and too tired to continue to squawk in protest.
Ukraine sat back down in her seat and stared blankly at a television hanging from the wall staring down at her. It was the only light that brightened the pitch dark room.
" . . . . tonight followed by a heavy chance of thunderstorms. Be on the watch for a small flood and . . ."
A/N: So hope you noticed chapters are starting to get real long. Chapter 8: a good 14 pages(the used to be norm). Chapter 9: 21 pages. This: 27 pages.