Here is chapter 10 just for you all! Happy late New Year!
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America Lost or Found
Chapter 10
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"So what you're telling me is he had a break down?"
"N-no. Well . . ."
Germany and Prussia had been brothers for centuries. They had gone through wars, deaths, even separation from the only family they knew. But their bond had grown even stronger from those obstacles. Due to this, it would be easy for either of them to know when the other was not telling the complete truth. Like now.
"Well?" Germany looked up from his book. He had been in the middle of researching side effects of, and possible help for, amnesia victims, when his brother had walked in his room with a solemn frown - something that rarely happened.
"He . . . I guess he had a bad flashback . . ."
"Just that? Or more?"
Prussia rubbed his hands together, as if he were washing something off of them. It was a nervous, and telling, habit of his he had developed from countless battles. Something Germany knew well.
"Brueder. You know if anything has happened to Alfred, I need to know. It could help in retrieving his memories back."
The other nodded, "Ich weiss, ich weiss."
"We need America back as soon as possible. Without a representation for his nation, who knows what might happen to his people," Germany leaned forward, "Or to him. Who knows what other nations might try to convince him to do something bad or - "
Prussia sighed loudly, exasberated, "I know, West! I know!" He shot out of his chair, running his hands through his snow white hair, messing it up more than it already was, "He's just. . . well . . ."
Red eyes met blue.
"Ludwig," a serious tone not usually associated with him came from Prussia's lips, "I think he suffered a PTSD attack while we were in an art gallery."
Germany's eyes grew, "how massive?"
"Not too bad . . . from the outside at least. He was only shaking, but not enough for others to notice. Just Kiku and I."
Germany sat back, rubbing his temples, "Where is he now?"
"His room. Kiku is looking after him. Once I noticed what was happening, we rushed back here as fast as possible."
"Attracted any attention?"
"No. As far as I saw, no humans realized anything. And there were no nations around when we came back here."
"Hmm," Germany took off his glasses, laying them down by his book, "So maybe no one will try to do anything to him right now."
"You think anyone would try?"
"Maybe," Germany stood, passing his brother to look out his window, "It's hard to tell. There are those who love America, or at least Alfred, to not do anything. Then there are those who would want him gone, but know it is too risky with his allies. Then there are those who are gutsy enough to try anything, despite whoever is nearby."
"Like Russia," Prussia spat, "That bastard already threatened him."
"Ja. I heard from Norway. Apparently your Danish drinking buddy has already promised to start something is Russia did anything else."
"If he gets to the rat before I do."
"I know. . ." Germany turned towards Prussia, "That's why I want you watch over Alfred until further notice. If you need a break, get Denmark or someone that'll scare Russia off."
"What about you? What are you planning?"
"I'm going to meet with some of the others and see if there is anything we can do to help his memory come back faster. Us representations aren't like humans. It's too dangerous for us to keep our guards down for too long. But then again, we are fast healers," Germany sighed, "Maybe we can come up with something."
Prussia grinned, punching his brother in the shoulder, "Of course you will. You are mein brueder, and come from a long line of geniuses. Like me!"
/
Japan had just received the text about the meeting. Germany wanted him and others to meet in Italy's room in half an hour to discuss Alfred's condition. He looked over to his new patient.
Once they got back, Alfred went straight to the bathroom, locking the door behind him. Kiku had been worried what the younger would do, until he heard the sound of rushing water. He was thankful the other was only taking a shower. Though he did become nervous when the water was still running half an hour later.\
He had knocked on the door, "Alfred." No answer, "Alfred . . . are you alright?"
That was when the water cut off. If he was able to do that, then at least he was mobile still. Japan's full fear was swept away when Alfred opened the door. The man had changed into a pair of shorts and loose shirt. They must have been in there from before.
"Alfred. Would you like something to eat? I could get you anything you would like?" Japan coaxed.
But Alfred did not speak. He did not even acknowledge Japan's existence. His eyes were dulled, something more noticeable with his glasses off. Without a word, Alfred walked over to his bed, slumped down, and covered up completely.
Japan's worry came back stronger. He hoped his friend could pull through this troubled time.
/
The irritating rumble of the Dane's voice finally faded away as the elevator's doors shut behind Norway. Ever since he did not punch that man in the face for starting shit with Russia, Norway did not hear the end of the chit chatting and chuckling from Denmark. He would not shut up! And of course it was not like other time! Other times the guy would just ramble on, mumble a little, and slowly fade away - the result of a special defence mechanism Norway's brain had since meeting the man. But this time, for some odd and terrible reason, Norway could not tune him out!
"You okay?" Sweden spoke up.
"Of course."
"Sure don't look like it. Especially when you're rubbing your eyebrows off."
Norway sighed, dropping his hand from his temple, "Well at least I won't turn out like that English bastard."
Sweden snorted - a small quirk he had, if anyone actually paid attention to him.
"Let's just get this meeting over with, so I can sleep in peace."
The doors finally opened as the two reached the top floor.
As they got closer to the doors at the end of the hall, they could hear Italy's squeals and Germany's grunts.
"Must've rushed him."
"Or was running away."
Norway knocked on the door. There was some shuffling before the door opened slightly.
"Who goes there!"
"Shut it, Prussia, before I hit you."
A snickered could be heard as the door flung open revealing the one and only awesomest nation in the world!
Norway sighed. With him here, they might not get anything done.
"Couldn't take all of Denmark's lovely talking, huh?"
"You have no idea."
Prussia snickered, stepping out of the way, "Come on in! Come on in!"
Norway and Sweden stepped inside, seeing a few other nations.
"West! Everyone's arrived except Japan. I'm going down to get him."
With that Prussia was gone, and Norway's stress lowered a little more.
He and Sweden sat at the large circular table, waiting with the others. Switzerland surprisingly had no gun in hand, but was reading a book about sonnets and poems. England was nibbling on a sandwich, though he did not even seem to notice what he was doing. France seemed to be sleeping on the chair in the living section of the large hotel room. It was odd to even see the two latter nations in the same room, without seeing or hearing any insults of any kind. Norway also noticed Germany off to the side, organizing books, with Italy and China in the small kitchenette fixing a meal. This was an odd combination of countries. Even for the matter at hand.
He decided not to worry about it, and leaned back in his chair, grateful that he could relax for at least a little bit.
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A knock at the door, and Italy rushed to open it.
"Kiki! You're here!" he hugged the little Asian man, choking him in the process.
"Italy! Off! Now!"
Italy whimpered, but let go of his friend nevertheless.
"It is nice to see you, Feli-kun. But, remember, you just saw me this morning," Japan coughed out.
Italy grinned, "but I always miss my friends!"
As Japan shut the door behind him, and Italy skipped to his designated seat, Germany called the makeshift meeting to order.
"As you all know, America is suffering from amnesia. Now this wouldn't be a problem, if he were only human. But, unfortunately for him and all the world, if he doesn't come back mentally, things may prove disastrous for his country. As well as our own."
Germany looked over the group. France was still on the chair, slightly turned around to watch and listen. Britain had stopped nibbling on his sandwich, and was leaning back in his chair. Switzerland was listening attentively, like always. Norway and Sweden were as well, but seemed more laid back than the former. Japan had taken a seat next to Italy. And China was finishing his cooking in the kitchenette, but seemed to be listening in.
"Even though I've been reading up on it, I don't know that much about what we could do to help him. Who knows if it can be permanent or not for us. I've asked you all here because your countries are either the best at modern medicine, ancient medicine, or you have a more personal tie with America than most of us do."
"If that is true," France interrupted, "Then why isn't mon garçon here as well."
No one knew if the harsh tone in his voice was intended or not; but it did create an awkward air in the room.
Germany cleared his throat, trying to relieve some tension, "I tried to contact him, but he wouldn't pick up his cell. I don't know where he is."
France just grumbled - something unbecoming of his gentlemanly demeanor. Germany chose to ignore it. He already had a full plate, and did not want to add more to it.
Before he could continue, though, cons spoke up, "but why have me here?"
The group turned their attention toward the small man, who was bringing out a large, oversized dish of fried rice. As he sat it down on the round table in-between the group, he continued, "I know I have an immense knowledge of ancient medicine, but I don't even care for the idiot."
Britain shot up from his chair with newfound energy, "don't you dare call him that! Alfred is a fine man, who has more respect and honor in his little finger than you'd ever dreamed of!"
China snorted, "maybe by your standards. But that devil has done more damage to me than you could imagine," his fist clenched.
"Like how he saved your ass-"
"Shut it!" Germany yelled. "We are not here to argue," he faced China, "whether you like him or not isn't the point. Without him, all our economies could suffer. Who knows what'll happen if America isn't able to represent his country -"
China laughed, venom seeping from his lips, "I know what would happen. Either Russia or someone else would end up taking control of his government from the inside. With that done, all of his finances will be at the disposal of the overtaker. But since the moron is extremely in debt -" England growled out China's insult "- his land will have to be auctioned off to pay everyone he owes back. But since owning the land sounds much better than selling it to someone else, I expect to get a large portion. Well, if that happens."
China's grin irritated everyone in the room; even Italy a little, who was whimpering behind Japan.
"But even if that doesn't happen, and he regains his memory, if its far down the line enough, then his government will still suffer."
"You wanker!" In a flash, Britain was around the table, clenching onto China's collar, "You arsehole!"
"Britain!"
"Arthur, control yourself!"
Germany and France tried to pry the blonde off of China, but to no avail.
"You have no right to insult him! He's helped you so much!"
It was then that Sweden came right behind Britain. Germany and France moved out of the way as the taller man grabbed the other's wrist, pressed his thumbs on the inner sides of each, and slowly made Britain let go of China. Britain heaved, hate in his eyes - enough to make China rethink his words.
"Breathe. Just breathe," Sweden said softly.
Britain heaved, slowly calming down, regaining his composure.
China did the same, until he felt a small hand on his shoulder. He jumped, turning around to see Japan, with Italy shuddering behind him.
"I know America has done you wrong on some things," Japan's face was sullen, his eyes glazed over, "But remember that he saved you during the last world war."
With those words, everyone tensed, especially Germany and Italy.
"You will do well to remember that if it wasn't for him, I would have never stopped attacking your people. I would have kept on, until I gained control of your entire country."
"B - but he's the one who bombed you! You suffered so much because of that!"
"Yes, he did," Japan continued, "but I'm the one who attacked him first. And I'm the one who didn't give up when he gave me a chance to, "he inhaled, "And I'm the one who attacked all of the Pacific Ocean for power,"he stared right at China, eyes fierce, "if it weren't for him, you would have been destroyed."
China's gasp was silent, but didn't go unheard.
"Besides," Norway chimed in, "I thought you hated Russia. At least enough to not make dirty deals with him."
Sweden eyed his brother. He must have been really irritated to make a comment like that.
China felt trapped between them all. He felt caged between fear, anger, sadness, and a mad Brit still trying to calm completely down. He did not know what to do.
Luckily, he did not have to think of anything. Switzerland, who had been sitting silently the whole time, finally spoke.
"It is true America has done a good portion of the world dirty in some aspects. But if we were to hold every one of our sins against each other, the whole world would go mad with hate and revenge. Even if people have hurt you to the point you don't trust them, sometimes it's best to put the pain behind you and help those in need. That's how and why I can be friendly with Austria. I want to create a better world for my sister, even if that means being nice to someone who has cut me deeply."
Everyone was looking at him, some with awe, some with approval.
"So what do you say, China? Will you hold grudge against America for what he's done to you and your family? Or will you help him to ensure your family will be okay and safe for the future?"
China looked at Japan, who had pleading eyes. He remembered helping the boy grow up, along with his other siblings. Those days were long past, but he missed them so.
A moment later he sighed.
"I will. For them."
"Good," Switzerland said, "let's start the meeting then."
/
Prussia heard laughing on the other side of the door. He suspected that Denmark's friend had finally shown up before he even arrived. But that was fine with him. He planned on staying out in the hall; he wanted to make sure no unwanted guest came snooping.
.
"You really did that to your brother? You are so mean!"
"But it was funny! And he deserved it for planting that whoopee cushion in my seat at the meeting!"
"Well at least I know why your stomach was so upset that day," she giggled.
Denmark had grown a little lonely after he relieved Japan of America-sitting duty. It was no fun to hang out with a guy who was unconscious. He could have at least drawn on his face. But, considering the stage Alfred was in, the Dane did not want to chance it. So he invited Ukraine over.
She was the sweetest woman he knew. He loved her cooking to the point of mouth watering dreams . . . in the middle of meetings - an action that got an insult from Norway and Iceland about how dumb he looked. But he did not care at all. It was just amazing to him that she could try any type of dish - even other nation's specialties - and get it perfect nearly every time. The times she did not, she would try again until she got it right.
He also loved her bubbly personality and presence most of all. She would brighten any room, and take care of any person who needed it. He simply loved her.
It was something he had not told anyone, though. Well, except for Prussia and America, who had kept the secret to themselves despite their loud mouths.
There was nothing wrong if Ukraine found out, of course. And Denmark was not afraid of Russia or Belarus. But, he knew that it would not be a good idea for them to be together. It could hurt their countries. It could hurt them. He could hurt her.
"So what did Iceland do after that?"
Hearing her snapped him out of his thoughts, "Huh. Oh. Oh yeah! After he clean himself up from the gunk, he tried to point hot sauce in my drink. Unfortunately for him, the hot sauce didn't mix in my drink. So I just threw it out . . . in his drink."
"Poor boy," she giggled.
"He deserved it. It's all good."
"And what did Norway think of all this?"
"Please. Iceland was being a brat that day. He was playing pranks on all of us, so Norway let mine slid."
Her cheerful laughter brightened up the room. He was enjoying his time here. He never noticed what was happening on the other side of the room.
/
Alfred!
. . .
Alfred!
. . .
Alfred!
He could hear it.
Alfred!
A voice in the distance.
Are you coming?!
Who was it?
You better hurry! It's almost tea time!
His eyes finally focused.
Al!
A young boy? Who was he?
Before he could get an answer, the boy ran up to him, grabbing his hand, Come on Alfred! We need to get back before Uncle says anything!
The little boy had wavy blonde hair and big violet eyes. Alfred remembered those eyes . . . Matthew?
"Mattie?" The name came out before he knew what he was saying.
Come on! The boy pouted. We have to get back.
The boy pulled on his hand, leading him towards a small cottage on the outskirt of the woods.
"Wait . . . that place . . ."
Uncle will be mad! It's almost tea time!
"But, whose Uncle?"
Mine! Remember? He's your papa.
"My papa?"
Your daddy. Mr. England. Arthur.
"Arthur . . . Britain."
Yep. Him! Matthew pointed towards the cottage.
Alfred looked up to see Arthur - his father, Britain. One instant the young man was dressed in plain trouser pants and a button up shirt; the next, he was closer with a gun in hand. His outfit changed to a red uniform.
WHY?! he scowled at Alfred.
"W-what?" Alfred stepped back. His eyes widened. The sunny day had turned into a whirlwind of clouds and rain. He had a gun in his own hands.
WHY ARE YOU DOING THIS?!
"Doing what?!" Alfred backed up even more, wanting to get away.
Arthur charged towards him. Before he could raise his gun to stop the bayonet on Arthur's from hitting his face, everything went to black.
Alfred shook, "W-what is going on here?"
You know what you did.
His eyes widened, focusing on that man - that horrible man from before - stumbling towards him.
You're the reason why my home is falling apart.
He was stumbling towards the younger man, holding his bleeding side.
You're the reason my sisters left. Why my satellites are gone.
Alfred moved away from him, "W-what are you talking about?!"
YOU KNOW WHAT! Ivan lifted the gun that was hidden in his other hand. YOU WESTERN BASTARD!
He shot.
Alfred lifted his arms, trying to avoid the bullet, but light flashed before his eyes. His senses were overrun with fire and burning flesh. His lungs heaved, filling with smoke.
He ran as fast as he could, away from the blood curdling screams and flames.
"Get away, get away-" Alfred huffed, running through what he could only guess what used to be a town.
He ran faster and faster. The buildings slowly broke into a few trees, which formed into a dense forest.
"Faster! Faster!"
He could still hear the screams.
He could still feel the burn on his skin.
"Go! Go!" he urged his body to run faster.
He screached to a halt a second later. His heart was beating out of his chest. His mind was screaming at him to keep going.
But, he couldn't.
Right before him, he saw a small man hunch down in a deep river. It appeared as if the man had come out of the river itself. Or as if he was trying to drown himself.
"What the hell," Alfred said under his breath. A second later, he regretted it.
The man stood up, slowly turning towards him.
/
"AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!" Alfred screached, making Denmark and Ukraine jump from their seats.
Ukraine rushed over to his side. Denmark froze. There was pounding at the door.
"Denmark! Go let Prussia in!"
At the sound of Ukraine's authoritative tone, something he had never heard from her, Denmark rushed to open the door.
Prussia ran in. "What happened?!" he shouted over Alfred's screaming.
"I don't know! We were talking, and he-he just started-" Denmark lost his words.
Ukraine worked to calm Alfred down, as Prussia whipped out his phone to call his brother. Denmark stood by the opened door, not noticing Ukraine's brother looking in, eyes widening as he took in his former foe.