Author's Note: Ok, so I know what you're all thinking. Why did I take so long to finish this chapter! What were you doing blarg! You need to update! Your too slow! Why did you do this to us!?
So anyways… I'm sorry. Like really sorry… I know lots of you have been disappointed that I didn't update all summer… Lots of things contributed to my not writing this for so long.
1. I was busy. Simple as that. I'm actually super busy right now and am only writing this because I'm waiting for a video for a project to finish uploading so I can keep working on it.
2. I honestly lost interest. I just got distracted by other things and didn't feel like writing this. I got immersed in other personal projects and kind of forgot about this story. But I've decided that I actually want to finish a project for once so that's part of why I came back to this story. Also, I won't feel satisfied with myself until I do.
3. I suffered from some serious writers block. I just got to a certain point in this chapter and just didn't know what to do next. I wasn't sure how to keep writing it. This also goes hand in hand with reason number 2.
4. And lastly, I... … … I can't think of a fourth reason.
So, basically, I'm going to try and finish this story within a reasonable amount of time. No promises on how frequent updates will be. I will let you guys know, if and when I ever decide to drop this story (which at this point I can't, I've come too far!) The plot hasn't changed; there has just been a delay in the writing.
Hopefully none of you are too mad at me, right? … Right? *hides under covers*
Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia or the characters of the manga/anime.
XXX
Chapter 9: Let's Dance
XXX
"Lizzy, are you done yet?"
"Be patient, Al. You can't rush these things."
"Seriously!? Why does make-up have to take so gosh darn long to apply? It looks so simple in the movies." America grumbled, tired of sitting still. She was getting antsy and wanted to see how she looked all gussied up with make-up and her hair done up. Hungary had prohibited her and Italy from seeing their reflections until they were completely done up and ready for the dance, which meant hair, dress, and make-up.
"Well, this isn't the movies. You can't just slap it on and expect it to look nice. Now hold still before I poke you in the eye."
Hungary had done Italy's make-up first (so America could see how it worked) and she was now admiring her appearance in the full-length mirror in Hungary's room, turning this way and that, watching her full-length dress move with her body.
Italy had gasped when she saw herself in the mirror after Hungary had finished her work. The other two had showered her with compliments when she had first seen herself, but she couldn't remember what they had actually told her, she had been too absorbed in her reflection and emotions. Had Hungary not reminded her she had mascara on she might have started crying from all the emotion she had experienced just seeing her reflection.
This was what she had always wanted: to feel and look like a truly beautiful woman. Looking at her reflection she knew there was no doubt in her mind that this was how she wanted the world to see her. However, she would just have to settle for her two female friends and Austria (although, technically he wouldn't know who she really was).
Her dress was bright green but elegant. The torso swirled to her right side and light yellow transparent fabric was nicely laid over the green skirt, undertones of blue shimmering through. Two white roses met the swirled fabric of the torso at her right hip, while a single strap of two more roses crossed over her left shoulder. She also wore white gloves that covered her forearm up to her elbow.
A simple gold necklace circled around her neck, twisted into an elegant pattern of shape, while matching earrings (clip-on, of course) helped to frame her face. Her chestnut brown hair was pulled back away from her face, allowing full view with her make-up accentuating her more feminine facial features. Her curl was the only thing left untouched, but once she put on her mask would be indistinguishable and thus unrecognizable.
If only Germany could see me like this. She gave her reflection a sad smile. Maybe someday. I'll just have to wait and be patient until that day comes.
Her musing was interrupted when Hungary finally announced, "Alright Al. You're all done. You can go look in the mirror now."
Excited and nervous the blond practically jumped up out of her chair and went straight to the mirror. She stood there and stared at her reflection, her eyes wide and mouth slightly gaped. Italy couldn't help but smile and giggle a little at the stunned nation's reaction. Although, she couldn't really blame her, after all it was the first time she had ever worn a dress, and also the first time she had seen herself in one.
Italy couldn't believe how different America looked. Yet, even in the floor length blue gown she could still see the American she had come to know and love underneath all the fanciful jewelry and cleverly applied make-up.
Her dress was sapphire blue with silver patterns at the bottom of the skirt, looking like stars. The torso was also decorated with silver and a white sash came around and met at her left hip, with part of it hanging down. It had taken a lot of convincing (and some threatening) on Hungary's part, but she had managed to get the hesitant blond to agree to wear a strapless dress. Along with the matching silver necklace and earrings (also clip-on) the tomboyish America was changed into a beautiful young lady.
Her hair was done up in a more feminine style, the only thing out of place being the untamable Nantucket. Also, her face was so much more open and looked more feminine without the square frames of her ever-present glasses. She had been extremely reluctant to part with them when Hungary first mentioned she wear contacts, but she had finally agreed to when she realized she couldn't wear the mask and glasses at the same time. However, that didn't stop her from complaining all afternoon about how the contacts made her eyes feel funny and she just didn't feel right without the familiar weight of Texas on her nose. She also refused to part with them entirely, keeping them close by at all times whenever they were perched on her nose. Although, without the glass hiding them, her blue eyes looked clearer and more vibrant then they usually did.
All Hungary's work (and persistence) was worth it in the end.
The other two waited for her to say something. A breathy, "Woah," finally made it's way past her tongue, which felt limp in her mouth.
"Al, you look so beautiful! Ve~!"
Hungary smiled wide as America only gave an absentminded nod. "I told you it would be worth the wait. You look gorgeous. Now all I need to do is do my own make-up. Then we can put on our masks, grab Roderich, and go."
Italy turned to look at Hungary and couldn't help but be slightly jealous. She wished she could have the luxury of keeping her hair as long as hers. Hungary's hair was done up so beautifully and it made her look so much more sophisticated and elegant to have her long light brown waves pinned up so tastefully. Her dress was just as elegant. It was a teal, strapless dress with ruffles and folds and looked absolutely wonderful on her. Her silver jewelry matched perfectly with the dresses silver accents, completing the look. Italy could just imagine the look on Austria's face when he saw her. She giggled at the thought.
She had felt slightly apprehensive at first when Hungary mentioned bringing him along. America had nearly had a full-on panic attack (her paranoia had been making itself known a lot lately, something neither of the other two were quite sure how to handle yet). However, Hungary had assured them that although he would escort them he would not know who they were.
Somewhere along the line, with all the time the three had spent together, Austria had found out a little bit about what was really going on. He didn't know all the details nor just who was involved, but he did know that Hungary was actually entertaining two mystery nations, both of which being female. If he had his suspicions he never voiced them, and both Hungary and Italy trusted him enough that even if he did figure it out he wouldn't tell.
There was a soft, definite click as Hungary closed up her eye shadow case and she smiled at her reflection, satisfied with her work. She turned to her companions. "Alright girls, lets grab our masks and go."
The three of them donned their masks (all of which matched their dresses and disguised both America's Nantucket and Italy's curl) and left to meet up with Austria. As Italy expected he was delighted to see Hungary and, like a true gentleman, kissed her hand and complimented her in her native tongue. This made Hungary blush behind her mask and Italy to coo behind her back, while America just gave a snort of amusement (as she had told them quite a few times before, she did not giggle).
With that the group began to leave. However, Italy noticed that America tensed up quite suddenly and looked around nervously, something she would occasionally do, although usually much more discreetly.
"What's wrong Al?"
The blond didn't respond right away. She exhaled deeply as if to relax. "Nothing.. just, have a funny feeling."
Italy tilted her head curiously. At this America waved her hand to try and dismiss the matter, giving her that smile that Italy now recognized as being fake.
"It's probably nothing. Let's just go. Don't want to be late after all!"
XXX
What did I do to deserve this?
Germany could feel a headache beginning to build behind his eyes. He could tell that it was going to be a long night. Especially with his overzealous brother calling the shots.
His brother had played dirty. He had manipulated Ludwig into giving him total control over the entire evening. What was worse was that he had somehow managed to drag both Japan and China along as well. Germany looked over at the Asian nations. He felt sorry for dragging them into this, even if they were coming on their own violation.
Prussia had jumped his brother just after the last world meeting and informed him that the two of them were going to go to some masquerade ball (he had thought his brother had finally lost his mind). Japan, who had forgotten his notes after being dragged away by America and had to come back to get them, had overheard the conversation and had become curious. China who had wanted to discuss something with Japan at that very same moment found out and had become curious as well. Why they wanted to come, Germany didn't know. It was just a ball with masks and fancy costumes, nothing extraordinary. Either way Prussia had been more than happy to let the two tag along, since it also made Germany feel more obligated to go.
Japan was dressed in a Western style suit to better fit in with the rest of the crowd, although his mask had a more Japanese feel to it. China was wearing more traditional Chinese formal wear and had a matching red dragon mask. Germany and Prussia were also wearing masks in a more European style (Prussia had had to threaten Germany with some hefty blackmail to actually get him to agree to wearing a mask).
Germany looked back at his enthusiastic brother. Why were they even here? Despite constant questioning he hadn't ever been able to get a straight answer out of his brother as to the reason why they were even coming in the first place. He had finally given up after he received the vague answer of, "We're meeting up with an old friend. It's a surprise! Kesesese!"
Germany sighed. He really should have just said no in the first place.
Suddenly something (or rather someone) shot out from the crowd, tackling China to the ground. "Aiyah! What the-!?"
Germany could feel his headache getting worse when he saw just who it was. Why did he have to show up?
"Da ze! Found you! You thought you could get away from me by sneaking around. Sneaking around originated in South Korea!"
It was obvious that South Korea had stalked China all the way here from Asia, although why he felt the need to do so was a mystery to all. Japan gave an exasperated sigh at his neighbor's antics and China looked about ready to start breathing fire through his dragon mask. China quickly shoved the younger nation off of him and stood, beginning a lecture that would likely take a good thirty minutes, all the while the Korean just stood there smiling like a dork. Prussia, impatient to get into the ballroom and locate his 'target', grabbed both Germany's and Japan's arms and began to pull them away from the now very loud scene.
"Come on, we don't have time to wait around for that old geezer to quit lecturing. We have some girls we need to find."
Germany looked over at Japan, who gave him a questioning look behind his mask. He merely sighed and shook his head. He didn't have a clue as to who his brother was looking for and probably wasn't going to find out until he found them, whoever they were.
It was going to be a long night.
XXX
How the bloody hell did I wind up in this mess!?
England was trying to ignore the pounding in his head, but was finding it near impossible when France was in his immediate vicinity.
He looked back at the rest of their motley bunch and wished he had just stayed home instead. He wasn't sure how France had heard about his plans or about how he was going to this specific ball on this specific night, but somehow the bloody frog found out and invited himself alone as England's (as he had so fondly put it) 'companion'. Worse still, not only had he invited himself along, but he had the audacity to invite his buddy Spain as well (he had called Prussia, but as England already knew he already had plans for the night and was actually here as well).
England had been even more agitated when Spain in turn dragged along a very ill-tempered Romano, who for whatever reason was in an exceptionally bad mood tonight. France had then decided to drag along… what was his name again… oh, right, Canada, as well. Apparently, France felt he needed to get out more and meet some pretty women while he was at it. Then, much to everyone's shock and horror Russia had found out and invited himself as well. England had almost had a heart attack when the huge Russian loomed over him with that creepy smile and fake cheeriness. Despite being completely unwanted no one had the guts to tell him to leave.
So here he was, going to a masquerade ball that America might or might not be at with apparently both Italy and Hungary, with Prussia and most likely Germany there as well. Not only that, but he would be going in the company of not only France but also Spain, Romano, Cana-something-or-other, and Russia. Bloody brilliant.
Currently he was bickering with France, who was in an irritatingly good mood. Behind them Romano was cursing out Spain for dragging him along, who only smiled cheerily at the insults. In the background, Russia was looming over a very terrified Canadian. England gave an audible sigh of relief when they finally made to the ball all in one piece.
As soon as they stepped foot in the ballroom France was gone. Probably looking for some poor girls to harass, the pervert. Spain and Romano were quick to follow France's lead, the former dragging his much more irritable friend as they took off in search of food. Russia, having had his fun traumatizing the now shaking Canadian, simply stated he would catch up with them later and walked away.
This left England alone with that one person who's name he should probably know by now. Discreetly he looked at his still shaken companion out of the corner of his green eyes.
"Canada!"
The startled Canadian whipped around to look at the pleased Englishman in bewilderment. But before he could respond the Brit continued, smiling, "You're Canada. I was having some trouble remembering your name, but I've got it now."
Canada, although happy he was finally recognized (which is ironic seeing as how he was wearing a mask… on second thought, it's probably because of the mask he was noticed in the first place…), just stared at the blond nation for a moment before giving a quiet sigh. At least he wasn't mistaken for America again.
Deciding to use this uncommon moment of being noticed to figure out what this whole outing was about Canada cleared his throat and asked in his polite, soft-spoken way, "Yes, I'm Canada. Umm, England, would you mind telling me why we came here? France may have invited me along, but I know you were the one who set it up, so to speak. Why come here of all places?"
England gave an exasperated sigh and looked very irritated by something. "I'm actually here looking for your brother."
What? He came here looking for Al? Why on earth would he think she would be here?
The Englishman suddenly looked both thoughtful and annoyed at the same time, his large eyebrows furrowed. "I've been getting the feeling he's hiding something from me. I just can't figure out what. He's been acting very odd lately, well, more so than usual. Also, this whole new friendship with Italy is just down right strange."
This was causing panic to sweep through the quiet blonde's mind. Oh no. Oh no oh no oh no. England's… finally caught on!? I need to warn Al!
Despite his panic, Canada kept an outward calm, not betraying his distress to his still thoughtful companion, "Well, I don't know about any secrets Alfred might be keeping, but why do you think he would be here of all places? As far as I know he's not even dating anyone. Why would he go to a ball?"
At this England looked a little unsure and slightly embarrassed. "Well," he avoided making eye contact and Canada began to get even more worried. "I might have been doing some spying on him after the last world meeting. Just to try and figure some things out is all, not anything to harm him of course. Anyways, I heard a little something from Prussia (don't ask, it's not important) that suggested that America, Italy, and Hungary would be here tonight. I came tonight to find him and try and get to the bottom of all this weirdness." He sighed tiredly. "But now that I'm here I'm not even sure if I'm going to be able to find him in this crowd, especially with the masks. It's makes things rather bothersome and frustrating."
England crossed his arms and looked out at the crowd, but wasn't really seeing them. He had a faraway look in his eye. "I'm just worried. I know I shouldn't be snooping, but, I just, don't want him to get hurt. He can be such a clueless idiot sometimes, and even though he denies it now, I still care for him as my little brother."
Canada, although touched a little by England's care for his 'brother', couldn't hide the fact that he was panicking. He hadn't known for sure what his sister had been talking about when she was telling him about her latest plans, but now he was almost certain that this was it.
From the very start of America's friendship with Hungary and Italy she had told him everything, simply because she knew he would never betray hers or Italy's secrets. He had been surprised when she first told him about Italy's own hidden identity, but he had taken it in stride and was actually excited for America that she wasn't alone anymore. He also couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment and pride from knowing he had been the one to bring the two together in the first place. He knew sending her to Hungary had been a stroke of brilliance.
America had told him some time after the last world meeting that she and the girls were planning for something big within the next month, but hadn't given him the details. All he knew was that she and the girls were going to be getting fancy ball gowns and going dancing. He hadn't thought too much of it at the time and had merely been happy for his sister, despite how nervous (and excited) she sounded over the phone.
But now he was struggling to keep himself from bolting into the crowd, finding his sister, and fleeing before England found her. Or worse.
England, unable to handle the thought of America hiding something from him, had come to a party Canada was sure America had come to as herself. But what was worse was the fact that he had dragged four other countries along with him.
He wasn't so much worried about Romano. If he did find America he would likely find Italy as well, who could explain the situation to him if she hadn't already told him. However, it was the other three he worried about.
He trusted Spain enough to not freak out or do anything drastic, but he didn't trust him at all to keep a secret. He worried that France would do something stupid, like try 'flirting' with her or something pervy like that. Honestly, his papa was so exasperating. However, the one who distressed him the most was Russia. What if he finds America? Or what if she finds him!? Might as well start a second Cold War!
Also, England had mentioned Prussia, which only meant trouble. How does he tie into all of this?
Wait a minute, where's England!?
Canada, lost in his panic, hadn't noticed that England had left, most likely, much to Canada's horror, to look for America. The Canadian felt dread sink into his insides. "Maple… this will not end well."
XXX
"Roderich dear, would you mind going and getting us some drinks."
Hungary watched him go, a little worried about the possibility of him getting lost (he had absolutely no sense of direction), before turning to her two female companions.
"Ok girls, I want you both to know that I expect you two to find some handsome young men and dance with them before the night is over."
Italy gave a little squeak of fear while America (even behind her mask) looked slightly ill.
"I don't know Lizzy, I mean, I'm a great dancer and everything, but I've never danced with a guy before…"
Hungary put her hands on her hips and gave them a stern look. "Come now girls, we didn't get all dressed up and come all the way out here for you two to stand in the corner and watch every other pretty girl dance with all these handsome young men. The point of a ball is so that people can dance and have a good time." She then smirked; knowing what she said next would convince America hands down she added, "Or are you too scared to do it?"
True to her nature, America immediately stood up straight and puffed out her normally flat chest. "Heroes aren't afraid of anything, especially something as simple as dancing." Italy still didn't look too convinced, so Hungary continued with, "And after you two have danced up an appetite we can get some food. I'm pretty sure there's some pasta at the buffet."
This was all Italy needed. "Pasta~!"
Hungary, smiled in satisfaction. "Alright, all you need to do is stand here and look pretty. It won't be long before some fine young gentlemen will come and ask you for a dance. No matter what, I want you to dance with them, you hear me. Do not turn them down. Men have weak wills when it comes to asking women to dance, and they are afraid of rejection. If you turn one guy down then the other guys might notice and will be less likely to ask you for fear of rejection. Do you understand?"
She received an enthusiastic nod and a mock salute in response. Nodding herself, she said, "Good, you girls will do just fine. Now, I'll catch up with you both in a little bit." She turned to leave, her teal dress swishing around on the floor.
America, still anxious about the thought of dancing with a guy, called out, "W-wait! Where are you going?"
Hungary merely waved over her shoulder, "To make sure Roderich didn't get lost. He's terrible with directions and it wouldn't surprise me if he got lost in a big place like this just looking for the bathrooms." And with that she was gone, lost in the crowd.
Italy titled her head and added on, "It's true, Mr. Austria is hopeless with directions."
An anxious silence soon fell between the two of them. America watched the couples on the dance floor, all of them waltzing to some traditional music. It was a very formal affair and America was beginning to regret her decision to come. She had taken dance lessons decades ago on this type of dancing from England when she was a growing colony. But she hadn't exactly paid that close of attention, and besides, she had been taught how to lead as the man. She wasn't sure if she could follow someone else's lead.
Italy must have sensed her unease because she put a gloved hand on her exposed forearm as a comforting gesture and smiled at her. "Don't worry, Amelia, I'm sure we'll do just fine out there. How hard can dancing be?"
America turned to Italy and gave a smile, "I know, Felicia. I'm just a little nervous is all."
America couldn't help but smile a little more. She felt like a real superhero in disguise, using a cover name to hide her true identity. They had decided on fake names beforehand to keep up appearances as completely ordinary young women. After all, Alfred wasn't exactly very feminine and they couldn't very well use their country names. They had picked out their own cover names. After some thought Alfred had decided upon Amelia. She had always liked the name, especially after she had met one of her favorite real life heroines, Amelia Earhart. Feli had simply decided to use a feminine version of her name since it would be easy to remember.
Again silence fell between them, or at least it did until they heard a sudden "Pepepep!"
Both looked up to see a very familiar yellow bird.
"Ve~? What is Gilbird doing here?"
While Italy merely looked on in curiosity, America's paranoia reared its ugly head and she began searching the crowds frantically. If there was one thing she knew about Gilbird it was that wherever he was Prussia was nearby. The two were nearly inseparable. Fear began to pulsate through her being and she was beginning to go into 'fight or flight' mode, her body tense.
Sure enough her fear was realized when a white haired young man, leading two other men by the arms, confidently approached the two girls a smirk that spelled out trouble etched into his face. Crap! Does he know who we really are!? How could he have possibly found out!?
She got her answer when the smirking fiend winked one of his red eyes at them, as if to say, "I know exactly what is going on and I am definitely up to no good."
"Hallo ladies, I've come to rescue you both from boredom with my awesome presence." No doubt about it, this was definitely Prussia. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Gilbert Beilschmidt." He then gestured to the taller of his two companions, who America looked at for the first time since their arrival. She didn't have to guess to know who it was behind the mask. Italy didn't either, because she tensed up in fear before he even finished his next sentence. "This fine looking gentleman here is my younger brother, Ludwig Beilschmidt." Italy still let out a little squeak at his name and shifted so that she stood slightly behind America, as if to keep Germany from recognizing her. America couldn't help but give a nervous gulp.
"I've seen you girls around before, although we haven't been properly introduced." As he spoke he was looking America straight in the eye, giving her this knowing smirk. Now America knew for sure that he knew just who they really were. "And I couldn't help but think, my bruder and your cute little brunette friend would make lovely dance partners." He looked around America to look at the cowering Italian, who gave another squeak. "So, how about it? Just a dance or two?"
"Bruder," Germany looked like he wanted to be anywhere else but where he was at the current moment. He wasn't acting as if he knew just who the two women were, so America guessed that Prussia had at the very least not told him the truth about their identities, for which she was grateful. However, this didn't make the situation any better as she and Italy were faced with a serious dilemma.
What do we do? What do we do!? We can't just let Gilbert toy with us like this! But what if he threatens to tell the other countries the truth? What is he trying to pull anyways? What does he have to gain from all this? It doesn't matter, we need to get out of here!
America, finally coming back to reality, realized she needed to say something. She straightened her back and with as much poise and elegance as she could muster she replied, "It's nice to meet you Gilbert. I've seen you around as well and it's nice to finally get a proper introduction. I appreciate the thought but my friend is kind of shy, so maybe later ok?"
Mentally she was hoping that Prussia would just back off. However, he was not deterred. He smirked that arrogant grin of his and said just as smoothly, "What a coincidence. My bruder is somewhat shy as well and wanted me to help him come ask this young lady for a dance. You wouldn't want to reject him and shatter his self esteem now would you." Behind him, Germany gave a frustrated sigh and lightly smacked his forehead with his hand at his brother's blatant lie.
"Well, maybe you should have given him a proper pep talk instead of just doing everything for him. If he can't even ask a girl to dance then how do you expect him to actually dance with her."
"He will be just fine once they're on the dance floor. It's the fear of rejection that paralyzes his poor heart."
"Well, if his heart is in so easily damaged then maybe he needs to see a doctor and not spend his time dancing."
"Ah, but the doctor prescribed dancing as a cure for his feeble heart and said that only the smooth dancing of a woman could fix it."
While the two bantered back and forth the others could only watch the tennis match of words happening before them. In fact, quite a few bystanders were watching the two with mixtures of exasperation and confusion. Germany by this point was thoroughly embarrassed, although he did well to hide it behind a downtrodden annoyance. Japan was the only one paying attention to the now forgotten brunette girl. He couldn't help but feel like he had met her before, but he couldn't place where or how they would have met.
America was about to respond to another of Prussia's elaborate comebacks, but was beaten to the punch by the very person they were originally talking about. "I would love to dance."
Prussia, America, Germany, and the still silent and forgotten Japan all turned to look at the now beaming Italian. America looked stunned and bent over to whisper to her, "Are you sure that's a good idea? What if Germany catches on? You don't have to do this you know."
Italy, for once showing her true age and wisdom as a nation, in turn whispered back, "I'm really scared right now, but I've been waiting for a chance like this for decades. I want to enjoy this moment while I can."
The two looked back at the guys to find that Prussia and Germany had been having their own not so quiet conversation. "Just one dance, West. She's already accepted so you can't chicken out. Now go and ask her to dance like a true gentleman and all that crap!"
Germany, looking more and more irritated finally turned to face the waiting Italian girl. He took a breath and asked her somewhat tensely, "Would you like to dance?"
Beaming like a schoolgirl just asked to prom by her crush, Italy responded quickly, "I would love to! ~Ve!"
America could have smacked her forehead at that. Way to maintain your cover Feli…
However, Germany only gave her a funny look, before offering her a hand, which she gladly took, and leading her to the dance floor.
Hopefully Feli will be able to contain herself and won't give away her true identity to Germany… that would be a huge mess of trouble.
Suddenly, America realized that with Italy gone she was left alone with Prussia. She turned to look at him again, apprehensive as to what he was going to do next. He was still watching the two with a surprisingly sincere smile on his face. However, it transformed once more into its usual smirk and he whipped around on America and she braced herself for the worst.
What he said next was not what she was expecting. "Now, where did our dear friend Elizabeta go?"
America, a little startled by the question, pointed off in the direction she had gone. "To the buffet…" she replied uncertainly.
"Aha! Of course! Now I just need to keep her from sticking her nose into things!" And with that, he was gone before she could say another word. America couldn't help but snort at the irony of his statement.
America still had no clue how he found out about the their true genders, nor did she know what his motives where for doing anything he had done that night so far, but she was at last able to breath easy now that he was gone.
"Umm, excuse me."
Scratch that, she was now not only panicking again but she also now had a million little butterflies fluttering and crawling around her insides. She could feel her face heating up and her heart rate accelerating, and she slowly turned to look at one of the last people she expected to find here.
She had completely forgotten about the fact that Prussia had dragged along two people with him, and now that she was paying attention she could easily recognize the dark hair and eyes.
"I'm sorry about my companion's behavior. He is a very… energetic and determined individual."
She couldn't help but stare and gap. What had she done to get herself into this situation? Was there some cruel entity putting her through this emotional roller coaster? Who would do such a cruel thing!?
Gathering her wits she pulled herself together, summoned her inner actress, and gave him a friendly smile. At least he hasn't recognized me… yet.
"It's cool, I just wasn't expecting him to show up and be so forthcoming. I'm sorry, I didn't get your name, what was it?"
He gave a slight bow as was traditional for the Japanese. "I am Honda Kiku. It is a pleasure to meet you." He stood straight again and smiled politely. "I am from Japan. This is the first time I have been to an event like this, so it is a new experience for me."
America, despite her unease about the situation, couldn't help but feel at least a little more relaxed. This is still my buddy Japan. He hasn't changed just because I'm a girl right now.
"It's nice to meet you Kiku. I'm Amelia. Don't worry, I've never done anything like this before either. So we can figure out what to do together."
At this she smacked herself mentally. Why did I do that!? I shouldn't have told him that! Now I actually have to spend time with him. Not that I don't want to… but that gives more opportunity for him to figure out who I really am! Oh, but what if we do end up dancing together, then Feli wouldn't be the only one getting what she wan- NO! Bad brain! Kiku's just a friend and has to stay just a friend! You can't start thin-
"Excuse me, but are you two going to dance or what?"
During her inner monologue America hadn't realized that another person, a complete stranger for once, had approached the two. He seemed to be a little impatient and kept glancing at Japan as if irritated by him.
America decided she didn't like this guy. "Pardon me, but, what?"
He gave her a flirtatious smile, something she was not quite used to seeing directed at her (at least from guys, she had been flirted with by quite a few females while pretending to be a man, which was really messed up in her opinion), "I was wondering if you would like to dance with me." At this point he was completely ignoring Japan, who had put on his stoic poker face. But America, knowing her friend so well, could see underlying tension and could tell he was insulted by this man's attitude.
No one messes with my Kiku.
With an innocent smile America reached out and hooked her arm around Japan's, startling him out of his poker face, and gave the 'gentleman' a look that clearly said 'get lost'. "I'm sorry, but my new friend Kiku and I were actually just going to go dance. So, we'll be going now." Then, she led the now nervous Japan away, leaving the arrogant punk to sulk alone.
Brilliant! I got rid of the punk and now I have an excuse to dance with Kiku!
However, America had failed to take into consideration what her new dance partner wanted. "Um, Amelia, I-I don't know any of these dances! Plus we just met, I hardly know you. (And you're invading my personal bubble! This is so improper!)" America, falling into old habits, simply shrugged off her friend's complaints. "That's ok Keeks, I don't really know how to dance like the rest of these people anyways. Like I said earlier, we can learn together."
Japan stopped his fidgeting and looked at the blond female, suddenly very interested in what she was saying. She, however, didn't seem to notice the newfound interest.
Had she just called him… Keeks?
She had said it so naturally, as if she had done so before.
The only person who had ever called him that was… America.
What was going on here?
XXX
"Feliks, why are we here?"
"I already told you, like, a million times Liet! It will be fun!"
"But why did you have to drag me along?"
"Because Elizabeta was busy tonight and I didn't have anyone else to bring. You're here to keep me company."
"Fine, fine… but did you seriously have to wear the dress?"
Poland gave him a look of mock hurt. "Why, do you not like it?"
Lithuania just gave him a blank stare. Honestly, he didn't really care at that point how good Poland looked in his pink ball gown; Lithuania was just embarrassed to even be seen with him. Sure, they were wearing masks, so most people couldn't tell that Poland wasn't actually a woman. Although, even without the masks it would be hard to tell his true gender.
Poland huffed indigently and impatiently grabbed his companion's arm, dragging him into the huge ballroom. "Just come on Liet, we're already late. Why must you be so slow?"
"Maybe because I'm always being dragged around by everyone else…"
"What was that?"
"Nothing…"
XXX
Author's Note: Yeah, so, obviously this is just the first part. There is more to come, trust me.
Will Germany find out the truth about Italy and his own lost identity? Will Japan discover the truth about his mysterious (and sexy) dance partner? Will Canada find America in time to warn her about England's plan or will England find her first? Did Austria ever find the buffet? Where exactly did Russia go and what was he planning on doing at a masquerade ball by himself… or is he by himself? What happened to China after being split from the others? Why is South Korea such a stalker? What will happen when Prussia does find Hungary? How did Gilbird find America and Italy in the first place? Why is Lithuania always such a pushover? But most importantly, just how good does Poland look in his dress!?
Find out in the next installment of…
Under…
Men's…
CLOTHING!
Also, my faithful readers, Lithuania and Poland do play a big part later in the next couple chapters.
BONUS! Poland's dress is beautiful and pink and frilly and absolutely fabulous. It has spaghetti straps since he doesn't have actual boobs to hold it up. Also, it's pretty much canon that Poland is a cross-dresser so this isn't really out-of-character for him.