Author's Note: Howdy y'all! Hope y'all are havin' a rootin' tootin' week! So, it's time for another world meeting and as you can probably tell from the chapter title some pretty serious plot development is going down. Seriously, it's so much fun mucking with these characters.

Late Update… Again: I know I said I'd be on time for this chapter, yet I'm even later than the last one. Well, I hadn't realized how busy I would be this early in the summer. I've had a lot going on and so writing has taken a backseat to a lot of things. Plus, I didn't realize just how long this chapter was going to end up. I'm really sorry guys, thanks for being patient. I'll try and be on time this next week. I should be since the next chapter really shouldn't be that long.

I just want to thank you all for reading and give a thank you to all those who have given me review so far! I seriously love every review I get and it motivates me to keep going with this story! You guys are awesome!

Warning!: Romano = swearing.

Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia or the characters of the manga/anime.

XXX

Chapter 7: Big Plans, a Prussian Spy, and an Eavesdropping Englishman

XXX

Humming a merry little tune America packed away the last of her clothing. Satisfied, she headed for the bathroom to grab her toiletries. It was time for another world meeting, this time in Italy. Just thinking about the country brought up all the good memories America had recently made with said country's personification (well, one of them). It had been a couple months since the first official girl's night, and the three of them had managed to make time to get together at least once a month since. It was very quickly becoming one of Alfred's favorite traditions, her other favorites being sibling hang out time with Matthew and all day video game tournaments and anime/manga/movie marathons with Kiku.

The three girls had done a lot of different things since they started hanging out. Of course, they continued to go shopping, but they also would go watch a movie (usually a romantic comedy picked out by Hungary, which always made her and Italy cry and America laugh), or they would go to an amusement park (America always trying to drag Italy on the scary roller coasters but always failing to actually get her on one), or just go sight-seeing around Hungary (Hungary, although knowing everything there was to know about everything they saw, didn't mind showing off her country at all). All in all, it was a lot of fun and the three were becoming very close friends.

Standing in front of her suitcase she realized she's been spacing off and quickly checked her watch. "Crap! I'm going to miss my flight!" Giving her things a fast look over she gathered up everything and took off for her car. On her way out of the house she passed by her alien friend Tony, who was chilling on her couch with a new video game. Rushing out the front door she called out behind her, "See ya Tony! Don't throw any more wild parties without my permission, you hear! I don't want to find the house wrecked like last time!" Not expecting a response, she didn't wait for one, as she quickly took off for the airport.

Tony just kept playing his video game as if nothing had happened.

XXX

Blue, red, yellow: all the primary colors. Italy always found it so fascinating that so many different colors could be created from just those fundamental three. Painting had always been one of her favorite hobbies, ever since she was just a young country. It was just so relaxing, and she was quite talented as well. Since the meeting was being held in her country she didn't have to worry about packing or traveling, so instead she was doing something she loved to pass the time.

As her hands did the work her mind began to wander. She couldn't wait to get to the meeting. She would not only get to see Germany (she always looked forward to seeing him) but she would also get to see America. The two of them (along with Hungary) had become very close friends over the past couple months. She wasn't sure how she and the American hadn't become friends before Hungary brought the two together. Alfred was so fun and outgoing and loved food just as much as she did! The two of them were like peas in a pod and she couldn't wait to see her new friend again.

Her painting and pondering was interrupted when the door was slammed open and her obviously angry brother stormed in. Startled, she dropped her paintbrush and gave a surprised squeak, "Fr-fratello?"

"What the hell, Feli!? I know you're lazy but we're hosting the world meeting damnit! Quit being so fucking lazy and do your job for once!" He then noticed the dropped paintbrush, currently smearing bright red paint all over the floor. "Fuck! Look what you did! That's going to leave a stain!"

He was cut off when his sister (who was now crying) began hugging him fiercely, sobbing out, "Mi dispiace! I won't do it again fratello!"

Romano groaned and smacked himself in the forehead; he'd made her cry again. He awkwardly patted her head, trying to be comforting but firm at the same time. "Seriously, calm down. Pull yourself together; we have a meeting to run. You don't want the potato bastard to think we're a bunch of idiots do you?" He figured the chance to impress Germany (as much as he hated it) would motivate his easygoing (*cough*lazy*cough*) sister to at least try to help him manage the world meeting for once.

It apparently worked because the tears were suddenly gone and a hopeful smile quickly replaced them. "We can't let Germany think that! We will be the best hosts ever and prove to Germany that we are a strong country! Ve~!"

Romano rolled his eyes; At least she's willing to work now. "Whatever, now hurry the fuck up and get to work!" With that he pushed her off of him (she hadn't let go yet, she really needed to learn about personal space) and sharply turned and stormed out the door. "And clean up that paint before it stains the carpet, idiota!"

Italy gave a quick, "Ve~! No problema, fratello!" Then thinking about how proud Germany would be she began to clean up her art supplies. She paused briefly to look over her work and gave a sad little smile. She would just have to finish her painting later.

XXX

"Aw, come on Mattie. Don't be so doom and gloom. I'm sure you'll get your turn to speak this time."

Canada rolled his eyes. "I doubt that…"

America gave him a pat on the back (which almost sent him face first into the ground), "Seriously, you just need to speak up once in awhile and not be so quiet."

The two siblings were walking to the meeting room, passing by many of the other currently empty rooms in the large Italian meeting hall. They passed some other countries, but for the most part they ignored them. Although, America was receiving some strange looks. Who on earth is he talking to?

Canada sighed. "Easy for you to say."

"America!"

The two blonds had just entered the meeting room and where almost immediately stopped by an already irritable England. America immediately started to wave her hand (arm) wildly through the air. "Hey Artie! What's up?"

Said country harrumphed as he approached them, his abnormally large eyebrows furrowing in annoyance, "Must you call me that? You bloody git."

America laughed and flashed her signature 'I'm the Hero' smile. "Ahahaha! Don't pretend you don't like it."

England's frown turned into a scowl. "You're just as bad as that bloody frog."

As if summoned by England's 'affectionate' nickname the flirtatious blond suddenly appeared behind him, an absolutely devious look on his face. "Ohonhonhon! Did you miss me Angleterra? I didn't know you cared so much." While saying this, his hands had been exploring the indignant nation's body and seriously offending his personal space. Not that it was all that surprising.

In retaliation, England elbowed the perverted nation and would have smacked him over the head had he not gotten out of the way as fast as he did. "What do you think you're doing you damn frog! Keep you're filthy, perverted hands off of me!"

France just laughed, "Ohonhonhon! You are so easy to rile up, it is just so much fun I couldn't resist the opportunity."

America laughed as well, "Ahahahaha! Seriously you two get a room! Ahahahaha!"

Canada gave an exasperated, "Al, you're not helping." However, he was completely and utterly ignored. The scandalized look on England's face only made America laugh even louder. "You stay out of this! Nobody asked your opinion!"

The other countries paid this no heed, as this was a common occurrence. However, what happened next was most certainly not, and every nation in the immediate vicinity could only stare as the scene unfolded.

"America!"

There was a blur of motion and America was suddenly hugged (tackled) by none other than North Italy. This in itself startled a few of the nations. Italy, although friendly and affectionate, was usually frightened by America and it was uncommon for the two to be seen talking for reasons other than business. The rest of the nations were even more startled when America returned the greeting with just as much enthusiasm and familiarity.

"Hey little Italian dude! Good to see you too! How've you been?"

Italy began to rock excitedly back and forth on her heels. "Everything has been great! I was doing more work on my painting yesterday, you need to come over soon and see it! It's coming along really well. Ve~!"

"Really? Awesome! I bet it's looking great! I mean, it looked pretty good when you showed me the sketches, so it's just got to look even better with some color. Maybe we can hang out later after the meeting and you can show me how it's coming along."

Now, nearly every nation present was staring. Italy and America (either being unable or choosing not to read the atmosphere) didn't notice the attention. However, the most shocked were England and Germany, and it was plainly seen on their faces. England's mouth hung open and his eyes were wide; he seemed unable to believe what was happening. Germany's shock was much more contained, but for the normally serious nation it was strange to see him so startled.

The moment was broken when Romano, who had not noticed the strange scene, yelled across the room, "Veneziano! Get your ass over here and help me you lazy idiota!"

Italy yelled back, although much more cheerily, "Alright Romano! I'm coming!" Turning to America she said, "We can talk more after the meeting. Ciao!" With that, she skipped away to help her grumpy brother.

France was the first to recover. He gave America a questioning look. "I didn't know you and Italy were such good friends."

America just waved it off. "Oh yeah, we're totally buds! He's a lot of fun and super cool. Also, he makes amazing pasta!"

This brought England back to reality and he finally stopped gapping like a fish, rounding on his former colony with a fierce look. "It sounds like you two have spent a lot of time together. When did all this happen and how on earth did the you two become friends since the last world meeting?"

Unbeknownst to the three (four) blond nations, the other countries who had witnessed the event were shamelessly eavesdropping, waiting to hear America's answer as well. America just flashed that brilliant, sparkling smile, "Well, isn't it obvious? Other nations are finally recognizing how great I am, because…" cue dramatic pose, "I'm the Hero!"

The eavesdropping countries groaned. Typical America.

England was about to retort when there was a loud shout. "Hey! Everybody sit down and shut up! We're starting the meeting so find your seats and be quiet so we can get this over with." Romano was scowling fiercely and looked like he would rather be anywhere but at a world meeting. Veneziano (Italy was only called this if the two Italies were hosting) was swaying back and forth, a dopey grin on her face, thinking about how impressed Germany was going to be.

However, what she failed to realize was that he was still trying to get over his shock. Italy and America… friends? For some reason, this did not sit well with Germany. However, he put up on his business (poker) face and went to sit down. The other countries followed suit, and the world meeting began.

Although, not everyone was paying that much attention to what was going on. England in particular was to busy trying to puzzle out this most recent development. When did Italy and America become friends!? Is this part of whatever America is trying to hide from me? What is his secret? I'm going to get to the bottom of this, one way or another!

XXX

Hungary quickly walked down the hall before stopping at the room she was looking for. She quickly looked both ways down the hallway, and seeing no one she stealthily slipped into the room. She was in an empty study room with cushy chairs and tall bookshelves. There was a long couch in the room as well, facing a large window that had a magnificent view of the gardens outside the building, with the couch's back turned towards Hungary.

Momentarily forgetting herself, she walked towards the couch, admiring the beautiful grounds. However, she stopped before she reached it when she heard the door open softly and America slipped into the room. Hungary was about to say something but stopped when America put a finger over her lips, signaling her to be quiet. There was silence, and then soft footsteps outside in the hall passed by the door. America made them wait a full minute and a half before she turned to Hungary.

"Sorry Lizzy, but you can never be too careful with England. After Feli made that big scene earlier he's been keeping a close eye on me the entire meeting. I was practically interrogated at lunch when I got your text. I had to do some pretty quick thinking to get him off my back. He's knows something's up and is going to do all he can to figure it out." America gave a tired sigh. She really should be grateful, he had taken a long time to catch on after all.

Hungary gave her a slightly worried look, "Hmm, that's not good. Well, we'll just have to deal with that later. Right now, we just need to wait for Feli to show up."

The two didn't have to wait long. There was a soft knock on the door and America opened it to admit the last of their trio. The brunette gave them a goofy grin, "Sorry I'm a little late. Ludwig asked me if I was doing anything later and I was so busy making plans I didn't realize I was late."

Hungary waved this off, "It's fine Feli. You're here now and that's what counts."

America, who had looked on edge ever since she showed up, was the first to ask. "So, what was it you wanted to talk to us about?" Hungary noticed she hadn't dropped her 'man-voice' yet.

"Well, I wanted to let you both know that I have something a little different planned for our girl's night next month." She was now smiling and the other two could tell she was excited. "There is going to be a masquerade ball held on the first Saturday of next month in Budapest, and the three of us are going to be there as honored guests."

There was a pause and then Italy gasped with excitement. "Really! Oh that sounds like so much fun! We'll get all dressed up and do our hair all fancy and wear beautiful gowns. Ve~!"

America, however, was not so easily sold on the idea. Her paranoia was flaring up and she couldn't shake the feeling that things were not going to go very well. It had actually bothered her the moment she walked into the room. Why did she have that feeling that she was being watched?

"I don't know Lizzy. I'm not so sure it's a good idea."

Hungary looked like she was ready for the opposition and didn't seem disheartened in the least. "Why not? It's a masquerade ball, everyone will be wearing masks. So even if someone who will recognize you is there they won't know it's actually you. Plus, your hair will be all done up and anyone looking for you there won't be looking for a woman. It's the perfect opportunity for us to get gussied up and just have a great time. We haven't bought you a dress yet, so I think it's time we fixed that."

America paused. It did sound like a pretty good plan. Still, her paranoia held her back. Why did it feel like something was going to mess up their plans?

Unknowingly, her voice slipped into its natural pitch. "I don't know…"

Hungary suddenly grabbed Italy and dragged her into a side-hug, giving America her best puppy-dog eyes. "Please Alie. For Feli and me? It will just be one night. What could go wrong?"

Italy caught on, piping up, "It wouldn't be any fun without you! Please join us."

America, making up her mind, pushed her paranoia into the background and ignored the nagging voice in the back of head. She smiled and gave a thumbs up, "Alright, why not? It does sound like a pretty solid plan."

The two brunettes squealed excitedly and hugged the blond nation. Hungary then gave the two the date and general information about the ball. Thus, the planning began. About five minutes later they decided to split up. They would be in contact and could work out the finer points later. America left first, hoping to catch up to either her brother or Japan before either of them left. Italy left next about a minute later, looking for her brother as well, who was probably going to chew her out for ditching him unexpectedly. Hungary was the last to leave, looking briefly over her shoulder out the window. It really was a nice view of the gardens.

The door closed softly, clicking as it shut. The air was still, but the room was most definitely not empty. There was the sound of clothes against fabric as the white-haired ex-nation sat up from where he was laying on the couch. His red eyes quickly scanned the room, making absolutely sure that he was truly alone.

Prussia had (once again) invited himself to the world meeting. However, Germany had caught him before it started this time and had forcefully removed him from the meeting room. Prussia, being more than a little miffed, had gone exploring and wound up sitting on a couch, admiring the nice gardens. He had actually fallen asleep sprawled out on the comfortable furniture, only to be woken up by voices.

It had taken him a moment to figure out what he was listening to, but once he did, he was shocked to say the least. He was quick to realize that his presence wasn't known, and having experienced first hand the wrath of Hungary, he had wisely decided to keep it that way. He also didn't have to imagine just how badly America could (and would) beat him up had he been found out. He had gone out drinking with her (as he had recently learned, his friend was in fact a woman) and Denmark plenty of times to know what she was capable of.

The ex-nation just sat there for a moment, still absorbing all that he had just learned. Secretly, Prussia had always had his doubts about Italy's true gender. He remembered meeting the little nation when she was still small, dressed in that pale green maid's dress, cleaning Austria's house like a little servant. Prussia had actually wanted the little nation to come be his maid, but he knew neither Austria nor Hungary would give her up that easily.

When the little nation had grown up some it was made known that she was actually a boy, something Prussia had always had a hard time accepting. Even as time passed he had to remind himself that Italy was a boy, not a girl. Now though, he knew that he had been right the whole time, and apparently Hungary had known the truth all along. Knowing her it was probably her idea, unawesome witch.

What had really surprised him though, was the fact that America wasn't actually a guy either. Looking back though, it made so much more sense. He remembered the first time he had met Alfred. He (or rather she, he reminded himself) had been a dirt-smeared soldier, doing the best she could to help her people. However, when Prussia had come over during her revolution, she and her troops were in serious need of some help. He, being the awesome person he was (and still is), had stepped in and whipped the American troops into shape, teaching them how it was done.

Prussia remembered how much Alfred had looked up to him during that time, and specific memories began to resurface. America choosing not to bath with the other men. America becoming really defensive whenever women were ill spoken of. America never changing with the other guys and always wearing a shirt, regardless of the heat. There's truth behind the saying, "hindsight is 20-20."

As the new knowledge began to sink in the cogs in Prussia's brain began to turn. A devious smile soon made its way onto his face. "This is just too perfect."

Quickly standing up, he dashed for the window.

XXX

America's behavior had been driving England up the wall the entire meeting, but this took the cake. What is he hiding!?

The blond nation had stalked the American all over the building. England knew that America was aware he was being followed; otherwise he would not have backtracked nearly as much as he did. England also knew that America was extremely paranoid, and would do anything to keep England from following him if he didn't want to be followed.

After the meeting America had talked briefly with... someone. Who was it again? Oh, Canada! He needed to work on remembering his name. Anyways, after talking with Canada, America had abruptly left, talking to no one else on his way out. This was just another strange occurrence to add to the list of unusual things that had happened that day. First, it was Italy, then, that text at lunch.

England had opted to eat with America for a change and had joined him and his doppelganger (he already had forgotten his name…) for lunch. France (bloody pest) had, of course, invited himself along. America had gotten the text during lunch, which was strange. Their bosses knew where they were and that they were busy, so who could possibly have texted him? He waved it off, saying it was just a reminder from Tony telling him to grab milk on his way home. England wasn't convinced though and had kept on the lookout for more suspicious behavior. Leading to where he was now, stalking America through the building and said nation tried to get him off his tail.

The stalking nation looked around the most recent corner into the hall America had just turned in to. He was surprised when he found it empty. There were a few doors in the hall, so most likely America had just entered one. England silently crept down the hall, listening carefully at the doors. He almost stopped when he heard the faintest of breathing behind the one to his right. However, he didn't stop, but instead kept silently stalking down the hall. He didn't want America to know he knew where he was.

Once around the corner at the other end England began to formulate a plan. He couldn't listen at the door; that would be too obvious. He didn't have much time to find an alternative way in and he was sure there wasn't another door into that particular room. Suddenly, there were quick footsteps down the hall and a soft knock of wood and England was just able to catch sight of Italy entering the room he was now certain America was hiding in.

England brainstormed and imaged the layout of the building. If he remembered right, that room should have a view of the gardens outside, meaning there was a window. If he was lucky the window would be open and he could listen in to the private meeting unseen.

Taking off quickly he made his way out of the building. Once outside he stealthily made his way over to the window he was certain connected to the room America and Italy were in. Much to his misfortune the window was closed, however, he could still peek into the room and see what the two were up to.

He carefully edged up towards the far corner of the window, hoping to not be noticed. However, he drew back sharply when he saw, not America or Italy, but Prussia. What the bloody hell is Prussia doing in there?

Quickly he peeked in again. Prussia hadn't noticed him, and was instead staring at the ceiling from where he lay on the couch, hidden from the view of anyone else in the room. However, even from an angle England could clearly see the surprise (or rather, shock) in his face. He seemed to be listening in to the conversation on the other side of the couch, which England then turned his attention to.

He was shocked to see that it was not just America and Italy, but Hungary as well. What is going on here!?

England couldn't tell what they were saying, but he could see that Italy was excited about something while America looked somewhat apprehensive. Hungary must have been talking at the moment, England couldn't be sure since her back was turned to the window. America said something. Hungary pulled Italy towards her into a side-hug. A pause. America smiled, gave the two a thumbs up, and said something else. The other two became excited and hugged America, who laughed (England could hear that through the glass, although faintly).

The three talked some more, before the three finally broke up the meeting. America left first, then Italy. England nearly jumped out of his skin when Hungary suddenly turned around and looked out the window. He had apparently ducked in time, because the next time he dared to look in again she was gone. However, Prussia was now sitting up, looking at the door. England couldn't see his face, but could tell from how still he was that he was thinking hard about something. Probably whatever those three were talking about.

He was startled again when Prussia suddenly jumped up and rushed to the window. England was lucky there were bushes, otherwise Prussia would have noticed him as soon as he flung the window open. Prussia, however, was not thinking about checking for creepers. Instead he gave a sharp whistle. There was an almost immediate response. "Pepepep!"

"Gilbird, little buddy, you're not going to believe what I just found out!"

What has him so excited? What did he overhear?

The little yellow bird, flew around his master's head, chirping happily. Prussia watched him, unable to contain his excitement. "I need you to take a note for me. On the first Saturday of next month there is going to be a masquerade ball in Budapest and we need to be there. We cannot miss this! It's going to be so awesome! I have the most awesome plan ever! Now all I have to do is figure out how to get West to go along with it." He stroked his nonexistent beard. "Maybe it's time to break out that old blackmail. Hmmm. No, not yet. We might be able to convince him without it. Come on, Gilbird, we need to go find him now!"

With that, the little bird perched on his master's head and the ex-nation took off, not even bothering to close the window. England couldn't believe his luck. Sure, he still didn't know what on earth the three were planning to do at a masquerade ball, but he was that much closer to figuring out the truth. He had a starting point now. I need to call my boss and let him know I'm going to be out the first Saturday of next month.

XXX

"Hallo Japan, I was wondering if I could talk to you for a moment."

Japan turned around to see his old ally striding towards him. "Oh, Germany-san. What is it you want to talk about?"

He noticed right away that something was bothering the blond nation. He didn't outright show it on his face, but Japan had spent enough time with him that he could pick up those little signs that indicated that he was troubled by something.

"I was actually wondering if you knew anything about Italy and America's new friendship. You and America are close friends, has he told you anything about this?"

Japan couldn't say he was surprised by the question. He had also witnessed the rather strange scene earlier, and was also quite shocked by the new development. But he could say in all honesty that he was surprised that Italy had not said anything to Germany. The two shared a very strong bond, whether or not they consciously realized it, and Italy shared practically everything with Germany.

In answer he shook his head, "No, America-san has not told me about it. I just learned about it this morning. Has Italy-san not told you anything about their new friendship?"

Germany fidgeted a little at this and Japan could tell that this was bothering him a lot for him to fidget. "No, he hasn't." He seemed like he wanted to say more but wasn't sure if he should. Usually Japan would sense the mood and refrain from speaking, however, he could tell his German friend wasn't going to say anything more unless prompted.

"It is bothering you." It wasn't a question, and Germany didn't deny feeling such. His normal impassive frown deepened a little. "Yes, it is. Italy tells me everything. What he ate for breakfast, his most recent painting, about some stray cat he found. Yet, he didn't tell me that he's become friends with America. Last I knew, Italy was frightened by America. How did they become friends? I just, don't understand."

Germany glanced around, making sure they were not being overheard. "I am not saying I think America will try to hurt Italy, but… I am worried about him." Germany glanced briefly at Japan, before looking away, "I… don't entirely trust America."

Japan nodded in understanding. Germany didn't know America that well personally, so it was very understandable that he would not put a lot of trust in him, especially when it came to Italy. Germany, although always complaining about him being a pest, was extremely protective of Italy. Although he was always trying to toughen up his much weaker friend he was also very sheltering of him, wary of any real danger and possible harm coming to Italy. To Germany, America was a possible threat, and he was worried about Italy's safety.

Japan tried to alleviate his friend's worries. "Please, do not worry, Germany-san. I know America-san very well, and although Alfred-san may be over enthusiastic and not always think ahead, he is also well meaning and a kind person at heart, and can sometimes be mature if the situation truly calls for it." He gave his blond friend a small, reassuring smile.

Germany still seemed unhappy about the whole thing, but he sighed in consent. "I'll trust your judgment, but I'm still going to worry about Italy." He then added in an exasperated undertone, "When do I ever not worry about the clumsy fool?" Germany looked thoughtful for a moment, finally contemplating the idea of a genuine friendship between the two nations. "You know, I can see how they could be friends; they actually have quite a bit in common. They are both outgoing and friendly, both get excited over the strangest things, and they even have strange food obsessions. It's kind of weird how similar they are."

This caused the dark-haired nation to pause, but not before he nodded in agreement, "Hai. They do share some common personality traits and they did seem like they were becoming good friends earlier." Germany nodded but didn't add any more. Japan didn't notice the lapse in conversation; he had just started to think about the implications of this new friendship between America and Italy.

Japan was very aware of the fact that he was one of America's, no, one of Alfred's closest friends outside of his family. He was one of his few friends actually. America and Lithuania still had a good relationship, he had this strange love/hate friendship with Belarus (he had called it 'mutual understanding,' whatever that meant), and he would go drinking and hang out with Denmark and Prussia every now and then, but other than that, not many nations had a close, personal bond with Alfred besides England, France, and Canada.

Kiku felt that he shared a strong friendship with Alfred, and he would be lying if he said he didn't value his friendship with him. In fact, he cherished it. For better or for worse, without America and his government his country might have never reached where it was today after the issues surrounding World War II. The war itself had nearly destroyed their friendship, but somehow they had managed to pick up all the broken pieces of their friendship and put it back together even better than it was before. Kiku no longer blamed Alfred for what happened during the war. Something all nations learned at some point was that it is easier to forgive and forget, even if many don't always succeed in doing so (England and France being a prime example). What happened had happened, and nothing could change it. Kiku and Alfred had been able to move on, and now they were very close friends.

Political matters aside, Kiku liked Alfred. For one, he was a lot of things he wasn't. Alfred was loud, excitable, hyperactive, childish, immature, nosy, adventurous, and always eager to try new things. However, he was also very kind-hearted and was willing to go out of his way to help people who needed a hero (although, sometimes he tried to help those who didn't need help and didn't want a hero). To Kiku, Alfred was fun and wild and free. Alfred intrigued Kiku greatly, and although he could stress him out, Alfred seemed to have a relaxing effect on him as well. Kiku genuinely liked Alfred and considered him to be one of his best friends. Alfred was a free spirit, and dared to do everything and anything and was always willing to bring (and sometimes drag) along his much more reserved friend.

Something Kiku had never quite understood was why Alfred liked him so much. Compared to him, Kiku was quiet and reserved, didn't take too many chances, wasn't outgoing or adventurous, and didn't like to step out of his comfort zone. What did Alfred see in him that he liked so much? He had once asked Alfred this (something he had never understood either was how much Alfred could get him to open up and speak so much more openly about his thoughts). Alfred had seemed surprised by the question and had blushed a little in embarrassment. He had responded that he just liked spending time with him. Kiku had asked in return, "But, we are so different." Alfred had laughed and said, "You know what they say about how opposites attract."

Kiku had simply accepted the sentiment and had stopped questioning the how's or why's of their friendship. The fact was that he and Alfred were very close friends, and he didn't want to lose that. However, he now questioned it. Kiku prided himself on being able to understand Alfred's thoughts and feelings simply by reading his body language, and he could tell by how relaxed he was with Italy earlier that the two shared a much stronger friendship than they let on. Alfred had not told Kiku about his new relationship with Italy, and suddenly he felt a small spike of fear.

What if Feliciano and Alfred become best friends, and their friendship takes presidence over Alfred's and my friendship?

He subconsciously shook his head, as if trying to physically shake away the thought. No, I can't think like that. Alfred is my dear friend, he wouldn't try to replace me. Would he?

"Hey Keeks, wake up dude!"

There was only one person who had ever called him Keeks.

Japan was startled to find none other than America standing right in front of him, his brilliantly blue eyes betraying his curiosity. "You were doing that thing where you get all wrapped up in your thoughts and forget there are other people around. Wha'cha thinking about this time?"

He relaxed, it was just Alfred after all. He was a little surprised to find that Germany had disappeared from his side. However, after glancing around the room he saw that Germany was currently trying to keep Romano (who was fuming and swearing) from strangling Italy (who was cowering in fear), with Spain hovering close by but proving useless in the situation. Of course, Germany would abandon anything to rush to his friend's aide.

Addressing Alfred, Kiku gave a small smile. "Hello Alfred-san. I was just thinking about some work I'm going to have to do when I get back to Japan."

Alfred smiled in return, "Well, stop thinking about work and start thinking about dinner. I'm starving and I can't find Canada anywhere! We were planning on getting some authentic Italian food after the meeting but he disappeared when I came back to get him! I seriously think he has the power to turn invisible or something, but I don't know why he uses it all the time when he just complains about never being noticed afterwards. Oh well, I'll just shoot him a text and tell him I couldn't wait. In the meantime, do you want to go get some dinner with me?"

Japan knew he couldn't say no to his big blue eyes and goofy grin. "Hai, we can go eat. Italian does sound good."

His blue eyes sparkled behind his glasses and Japan could have sworn that Nantucket was wagging with joy (he had a theory that the illogical strand of hair had a mind of its own). The blond fist pumped the air, "Sweet! Let's go!" Then without warning he latched his arm around Japan's and he dragged him away, his mind set on food.

Kiku was quite used to this by now, however that didn't necessarily mean he found it particularly enjoyable to be forcibly led to who knows where. But, he had to admit; Alfred sure made his life interesting.

XXX

Author's Note: Hungary's made some ambitious plans and the other two are on board, although America's paranoia is acting up. Prussia's found out the truth and is making plans of his own, which will inevitably cause all kinds of trouble. England still doesn't know what's really going on but is making plans as well, but his are more the party-crasher type. Germany and Japan aren't sure what to think of America and Italy's new friendship and neither are really happy about it. And to make matters worse, Canada's gone awal and is currently MIA! (Well, not really. He's probably just chillin' somewhere in the background and isn't visible enough for a starving America to see.)

IMPORTANT NOTE! PLEASE READ: The chapters (yes, chapters as in more than one) revolving around the upcoming masquerade ball will not start until Chapter 9, so after the next chapter! I have something else planned out for Chapter 8, so we aren't diving straight into the drama quite yet. Although, Chapter 8 is very important for character development, mostly revolving around Germany. I fell like I haven't done his character justice in regards to his and Italy's relationship, or at least his view and feelings regarding it, and that will be explored more in the next chapter. Also, we'll get some more insight into America and Italy's characters and see some of Prussia's awesome plan for the big night to come.

Notes and Headcanons:

* Headcanon: Prussia sometimes uses Gilbird as a personal secretary.

* Like I said, America is paranoid. Also, England is nosy.

* Germany is over-protective of Italy.

* I finally have given Japan more character development. Up until now he's been in the background (must be spending time with Canada…), and I finally have given you all, the lovely readers, some insight into how he feels towards America. I hope he is still in-character.

* I feel like I'm starting to really get a feel for the characters. More of a personal note as an author, but still, let me know how I'm doing guys. I love reading your reviews!