Riley tried. Really, he did. He was going to give Matthew space and let Matthew enjoy such a big room. He was okay with sharing a bed. Hell, he was prepared to ask Wendy to share the bed with him. Everything changed when Sven and Peter started to argue during the movie they were watching.
The arguing started tame, about something that Riley couldn't even remember. Maybe about Peter drinking all of the Juice boxes in the fridge? Maybe? Regardless, quickly it began to spiral. With insults being hurled left and light between the two brothers.
"Seborga, aren't you going to step in?" Riley inquired at one point. "You have two brothers, surely you know how to be a peacekeeper?"
"Hm? No way. When Sealand and Ladonia get into it; it's best to just let them duke it out." Seborga told Riley. It made Riley miss Monaco, but the eldest micronation elected not to join in on this summit. Still, Riley considered himself semi-patient and waited for the fighting to stop, but it just wouldn't . For what had to be hours Peter and Sven yelled at one another.
Then Sven, clearly angry and wanting the fighting to end, took it way too far. "Momma took pity on you, you know that?"
"He did not! He loves me!" Peter all but screamed.
"No he doesn't! Nobody loves you! Not Papa, not Momma, and not England ! England was more than happy to waive his rights away to be rid of you . When your pitiful ship eventually erodes and turns to rust forcing you to disband; they'll all celebrate ."
Silence.
"Jesus Christ." Riley whispered.
'Ouch.' Quebec added.
Then as calm as calm could be; Peter approached Sven, cocked his arm back, and proceeded to punch Sven square in the face as hard as he possibly could. Sven went flying . He flew about ten feet onto his shoulder. He then sat up in alarm, his hand going to touch his, now bleeding, nose. When Sven saw the blood he let out a growl and then charged for Peter. The two met in the middle and fell to the ground with a loud thump ! That made Riley feel for those a floor below.
"Boys…" Wendy grunted as she propped her head up on her arm and sleepily watched the two wrestle.
That was when Riley called it quits as the fighting only escalated from there with the two boys now rolling around on the ground in a physical fight.
Riley sighed, got up, and went for the door. "Riley?" Sebastian inquired when he saw Riley at the door.
"I'm getting some snacks, I'll be back." He lied and before anyone could offer to go with him, he left.
It was the dead of night and because of that the hallway was dead silent as all the other nations were trying to sleep, minus the micronations duking it out. When Riley shut the door he was met with a muffled silence and he was thankful for that. Riley was tired and ready for bed, so because of that he trudged his way to the elevator.
"Merde." Quebec floated beside Riley on his back. "That was intense."
"Yeah, it was." Riley whispered to Quebec. "I just want to lay down."
"I don't blame you. I hope dad doesn't mind you dropping in at…what time is it?"
"Nearly one."
Quebec gave a soft sigh when Riley boarded the elevator. Riley hit the button and then leaned against the elevator wall when the doors closed. He looked at his tired reflection before sighing. "Those two…" He shook his head firmly. "I just can't believe Sven would say something like that."
"Yeah. It was brutal."
"But did you see that punch ? Holy shit. Ladonia flew ." Riley gasped. "I wasn't aware Peter could actually throw a punch ."
"Well, Yeah." Quebec laughed at Riley as he materialized beside him. Riley looked at him in confusion and Quebec shook his head. "Riley, Sealand is an old British World War Two fort. Of course he knows how to throw a punch. Don't let his size fool you. If needed he can fight. In fact, out of all the Micronations, outside of Monaco, I think he knows how to properly aim and shoot a gun."
"..." Riley frowned at that. "So… don't get on his bad side?"
"I wouldn't recommend it. No."
The elevator doors opened and Riley immediately clammed up when a new person stepped on. This person was a hotel worker. A janitor by the looks of it. It was a man, tall build, broad shouldered. He had on a tool belt, and was hauling around a vacuum. He also had on a ski mask so Riley couldn't see his face. He was also wearing a typical blue jumpsuit, gloves, and boots. Riley couldn't identify a thing about this man.
The air quickly became uncomfortable for Riley as the man got on and proceeded to not press a button. Instead he let the doors closed and both of them were going to the top floor.
Quebec let out a growl as he floated beside Riley. "Be careful."
'Yeah, no shit.' Riley thought as he kept a look at this guy out of the corner of his eye.
The man said nothing the whole ride up to the top floor. Riley stayed in the elevator when the doors opened and just watched the guy. The man had looked at him, and the only reason Riley knew this was the way his head moved just slightly. He then gestured for Riley to leave through the open door.
"Do not turn your back to him."
"You go on ahead." Riley swallowed hard.
The man looked at him for a minute and then walked off the elevator. Riley watched them go for a moment. Waiting for this stranger to vanish down a corner. Which he would eventually. Once in the clear Riley went straight for the only room on this floor. He didn't care that it was one in the morning as he knocked. "Matthew!" Riley whisper-yelled as he continuously knocked all while looking down the hallway. It felt silly to be so afraid. The man didn't even talk to Riley, but Riley was unnerved regardless.
Quebec kept a look out as he floated a little ways away from Riley. Thankfully, it wasn't needed as moments later a very sleepy looking Matthew would open the door. Riley paid no mind to the fact that Matthew was only in his boxers until he walked in a little further and saw…
" Wellll…" Riley giggled as he turned towards Matthew. " We can't deny our bosses.— you said." as he jutted his thumb towards Feliciano, who was also looking rather tired.
" Fermer ." Matthew shushed him. "Nothing happened. We're still just friends, it just so happened that we're sharing this room." Matthew then shut the door and locked it. "What are you doing here? Why aren't you in your own room?"
"Because I don't have my 'own' room. I'm bunking with every single micronation that's here." Riley explained as he found the couch and laid down on it.
"What?" Matthew inquired with a raised eyebrow. "That's strange."
"That is strange." Feliciano agreed. "Was Ivan drunk when he made these arrangements?"
"Maybe?" Matthew shrugged. "But regardless, that still doesn't answer my question. Why are you here?"
"Sealand and Ladonia started a fist fight, and not only that but there's five of us and only two beds. There's not even a couch in that room. I was going to give you space, honestly, but the moment Sealand threw a punch I knew I couldn't do it."
"Okay, I suppose that's fair." Matthew yawned. "Here." He then went into a closet and threw Riley a spare blanket. Riley caught it with ease. "We'll see you in the morning."
"Cool." Riley unfurled the blanket while Matthew and Feliciano walked back into the master bedroom. "And—Uh—Matt?"
Matthew stopped and looked back at him. Riley thought to tell him about the janitor, yet, he figured maybe he was being silly? Maybe it was just a man doing his job in the cold Russian weather. "Thanks for putting up with me." He settled on finally saying as he got comfortable. "Good night."
"Sleep well."
It was only a matter of time before they were caught, but again, to be fair neither Matthew or Feliciano did anything outside of literally sleeping next to one another. It was one of the rare times Feliciano could sleep. Though, Matthew noted that he didn't sleep for long. Regardless of that however; they were caught that very next morning and early and in the worst way.
Pierre Mccoy, who had apparently not been happy with his arrangements had gone down to the front desk demanded Matthew's key, and was given said key without much of a fuss, then again nobody wants to cross a Prime Minister. So, he just let himself into the room once he had the key.
Needless to say, he was no happy to see Canada and North Italy not only sharing a bed, but both looking naked, but not actually being naked. They were also cuddling as Feliciano had pressed himself against Matthew's back.
So, Everyone woke up to the sound of: " Absolutely not !"
Matthew and Feliciano both shot up in surprise. Riley, who had been on the couch with Kumajiro let out a startled yell because Pierre had been right there next to him.
"Have you two lost your minds?! " Pierre yelled in exasperation as he raised his arms up and slapped them back down to his sides. "I don't understand why you two can't comprehend that 'no' means fucking no !"
"Nothing happened!" Feliciano quickly jumped up from the bed. "I swear!"
"Nothing happened, Pierre!" Matthew frantically got up as well. "I promise!"
"Do you think I'm stupid ?! You're both in your boxers!"
"Pierre, I was here almost all night, nothing happened." Riley joined in as he leaned against the back of the couch.
"Then why are you here!" Pierre pointed to Feliciano. "Nothing happened? Then why share a room?! Why share a bed! "
"We were both given this room!" Matthew tried to explain as he grabbed the two keys off of the night stand. "See? Pierre, nothing happened. We didn't get together or anything, we were just sharing a bed because…well… C'mon Pierre. It was just sharing a bed! I've shared a bed with America more than once. Hell, I involuntarily shared a seat with Russia once."
Pierre narrowed his eyes at this. He didn't vocalize it, but he didn't need to, he didn't believe them. "Get dressed and downstairs." His voice left no room for argument as he then promptly turned his heel and stormed away.
"Ostie." Riley swore and Matthew gave him a pointed look.
"Language." Matthew told him but then he sighed. "Still…" He tutted his tongue. "Not good. Let's just get dressed and I'll see if I can calm him down and explain that nothing happened."
Riley nodded and like that the three of them broke off to get showered and dressed. It was a massive room, but it still only had one shower so they all had to wait their turns.
Riley was going to be last for the shower and because of that he watched Feliciano do some finishing touches on his person as Matthew showered. Feliciano was dabbing some cologne on his neck and Riley was loving the smell. "What cologne is that?" Riley inquired as he leaned against the back of the couch.
"Hm?" Feliciano looked at him from the master bedroom.
"What cologne is that? I can smell it from here. It smells nice."
Feliciano looked at his cologne that looked to be in a glass bottle. "Here." He walked over to Riley and handed him the bottle. "I've just been trying to get that bottle empty so I can move on to a newer cologne."
Riley was impressed, the bottle was glass. The liquid was a pale amber that sloshed inside and it was nearly empty. Tobacco Toscano, it read in gold foil print.
"Oh!" Riley blushed. "I didn't want it—" He tried to give it back but Feliciano pushed it back towards him.
"I mean it, it's not my favorite anyways. I was just trying to empty it. It was an impulse buy, if you get me."
"If you're sure." Riley smiled as he looked at the cologne. "Thanks."
Feliciano smiled and ruffled Riley's hair before going back to getting ready, only he stopped, and looked at Riley. "Where are your clothes? You didn't come here with them."
"Oh shoot, I left them in the room with the other micronations. I suppose I should go and get them. I'll be back…or I'll shower in that room. One of the two. Tell Matt?"
" Si! "
Riley then got up and left the room. "See you!"
"Wait!" Kuma was suddenly right next to Riley. "I'll come with you."
"Oh?" Riley raised an eyebrow. "Any particular reason?"
"I want to get away from Garlic Breath." Kuma huffed and Riley had a feeling that was not the reason.
"Very well." Riley told him. "But I'm not carrying you."
"Hmph."
"You go first, then I'll leave five minutes later."
Those were the instructions Matthew gave Feliciano and they both followed them. Which was good, it seemed Pierre didn't go telling anyone what he saw at the very least.
Matthew, dressed in his suit and tie, was ready to get some breakfast, but he made it about two steps out of the elevator before he was grabbed by England.
"Hello, Arthur." Matthew greeted his father as he allowed himself to be dragged away from the crowd.
"I almost mistook you for that Frog." Arthur grunted as he then proceeded to straighten out Matthew's suit jacket. "You smell like cigarettes and the ponytail ?" Arthur then harrumphed as he gave Matthew's tiny ponytail a tiny smack with his hand. The ponytail wasn't that big, no longer than an inch in all honesty. "I thought it was cute."
"You need a haircut."
"Oh…"
"Regardless, how have you been?" Arthur inquired as he then straightened Matthew's tie.
"Fine and your new king?"
"Hmph. Dumb Alfred sent him a glitter bomb."
"So, I've heard."
"Ohhhh, trust me. I gave him a good piece of my mind." Arthur then, with no warning, tightened Matthew's tie, this caused Matthew to choke in surprise. "And now it's your turn. Can you guess who I just got done talking to?"
"I can— Tabarnak!— I can explain, Arthur."
"Then explain ." Arthur hissed between tightly clenched teeth. "We've all made our opinions quite clear . To hear that you two were sharing a bed and were naked—"
"Not so loud!" Matthew hissed right back at Arthur. "We weren't naked. We both had our boxers on. Nothing happened ."
"Why was he in your room , Matthew?!" Arthur didn't let up on the tie.
"We both got the same room—"
"I'm not an idiot—"
"I mean it." Matthew wheezed. "The room arrangements are all sort of weird! Feliciano and I just so happened to have the same room."
Arthur narrowed his eyes at Matthew then he let go of Matthew's tie. "Yes, the room arrangements are weird. Not only did they give the Frog and I a room together, but they completely messed up the Nordic's rooms."
"What do you mean?" Matthew rubbed his neck.
"What do I mean? I mean for some reason they put Finland and Iceland together, and then gave Sweden, Denmark, and Norway all one room with two beds. Obviously, Iceland and Sweden switched and Denmark went and bunked with Prussia from what I heard as he was given a room all to himself.
"That's so weird . You know what Riley told me?"
"Hm?"
"That they put all the Micronations together in one room. Five children, one room, two beds. Riley said there wasn't even a couch. So he came and crashed with me and Feliciano."
"... This is odd," Arthur admitted as he put his hands on his hips. "Really odd. I'd like to talk to Russia about it but…" He then opened his arms to show that Russia wasn't there. "I haven't seen him once!"
"He's a busy man, we'll probably see him at the meeting and I'm sure he'll explain these weird arrangements he gave everyone."
"A weird arrangement that just so happens to work for you, I'm sure."
Matthew glared at Arthur. "Nothing happened. Besides, you'll be happy to know that Feliciano and his brothers are leaving later tonight. So nothing will continue to happen."
"Hmph. Just know that we're all watching you and Feliciano closely." Matthew rolled his eyes at that.
"I'm sure you will be. Now, Can I go get breakfast?"
Arthur gestured that way and Matthew sighed before leaving. Thankfully, Arthur did not follow him to the line to get some food.
"Matthew!" Came a happy call that made Matthew turn his head.
"Maximo!" Matthew stepped out of line to hug Cuba in greeting. To which he got a peck on both cheeks from the man.
"It's good to see you! Actually, it's good to see you really looking different from ol' Alfred! I really miss your glasses." Maximo laughed.
Yes, when Quebec became a micronation Matthew no longer needed his glasses to see. So, it made it easier for others to tell him apart from Alfred.
"Yeah, I know what you mean; sometimes I still find myself pushing them up even though they're not there anymore and it's been three years."
"Speaking of Quebec, where's the little fireball? Decided to miss it this year?"
"As if!" Speaking of the devil, Riley made himself known. Riley was dressed in black slacks and a crisp white button down shirt. Once they locked eyes it was on as Riley squared up and started to play punch Cuba. "You just can't handle me, Mon Ami! "
Maximo laughed as he started to block Riley's feeble attacks. Then in one quick move he leaned down and picked Riley up, hoisting the boy over his shoulder with ease. "Is this thing yours?" He asked Matthew in a teasing way while Riley shrieked with joy. "You see, I just so happened to find this child and I think it might be yours, Amigo ." Maximo then started to turn in circles while jostling Riley around.
Matthew laughed at the interaction between the two. "Alright, alright, you two." He broke it off when he saw other nations now starting to stare. "That's enough."
Maximo grinned and put Riley back on the ground. "You're looking good."
"Thanks." Riley smiled and gently moved some of his hair out of his face. "So are you!"
" Gracias! Now if you two don't mind. I believe I see some hot porridge calling my name." Maximo rubbed his hands together as he got in line.
Matthew and Riley also got in line. Matthew turned, ready to talk to Riley, but paused when he saw Sven walking with Berwald. Sven clearly had a bruise along his nose and had blackened both of his eyes as whoever had punched him had done so hard and right in the face.
Riley noticed Matthew's face and turned to follow his gaze. "Oh yeah, Sealand did that." He told Matthew.
" Sealand did that?"
" Chyeah ." Riley then shook his head. "I told you it got physical between them. Ladonia kinda fucked around and found out."
"Riley." Matthew snorted and then he looked towards the elevator. "Ope." Left his mouth when he saw Tino hulling Peter by the ear. Peter also had a few bruises along his face and, if Matthew was looking right, a bite mark on his left arm.
Tino was quick and snatched Sven by ear just the same and soon both boys were, very begrudgingly, being hulled to a secluded part of the hotel where Tino would probably give them a piece of his mind.
"Mr. Finland does not look happy." Riley commented as he moved up in line with Matthew.
"Nope, not at all. Almost brings back memories."
"Oh, has England snatched you by the ear?"
"Many times. It might surprise you, I've had a few moments with him in the past."
" You ? The man I met in a mental facility because he attacked his adoptive father and destroyed his home in a fit of rage? I never would have guessed!" Riley sarcastically yelled, earning Matthew a few looks from the other nations.
"Ha. Ha. Smart ass." Matthew then started to ruffle Riley's hair. Riley looked at Matthew from under his hand and laughed.
"You know you love me."
"That I do, now get some food." Matthew urged. "But be careful because—"
"—It might contain nuts, yes, thank you. I know." Riley finished for Matthew.
Despite being the embodiment of Quebec, being a micronation, and being nearly immortal; Riley still had his allergy to nuts. It was odd and nothing any nation had ever seen. Nations didn't have allergies, and it's the same with Micronations. However, much like Riley being human turned into Micronation, it was just another thing Matthew had to accept about Riley.
How they found out he still had the allergen could almost be considered funny in all honesty.
They had been invited to Finland's house. It was Peter's birthday as a matter of fact and he was having a sleepover with all the other micronations. Matthew was standing there in the doorway talking with Finland over the plans as Riley was going to stay the week.
"Riley!" Peter rushed to Riley with some sort of cream filled cake in his hand. It was a pastry of sorts. It looked good. "Dad just finished making some semla for everyone! Have one!" Peter handed one to Riley.
"Oh, thank you. It looks delicious." Riley smiled kindly at Peter before going in for a bite.
"So, I'll be back Sunday night to pick him up." Matthew had finished telling Tino.
"Of course, that works out great."
Riley, as calm as calm could possibly be in that situation, then spoke. "Matthew?"
"Yes?"
"Ah… Emmène-moi à l'hôpital."
"Eh?"
"I'm having an allergic reaction. This has almonds in it." Riley then pointed to the cake in question that had a bite taken out of it and Matthew was quick to spot the hives starting to pop up along his face and around his mouth. Then Riley proceeded to drop the pastry as he doubled over. " Sooner rather than later would be preferable!" He wheezed.
" EH?! You still have your allergy!?"
" SOONER RATHER THAN LATER, MATTHEW! Grk!" All it took was hearing that gag, the sign that Riley's throat was indeed closing, and Matthew had Riley in his arms; hauling ass towards the car with Tino not too far behind him.
"I'll drive! I know the way to the nearest hospital! Sweden! Watch the kids!" Tino yelled to his husband, who gave Tino a thumbs up in the doorway.
Obviously, Riley made it out unscathed and Matthew couldn't be happier, but still . It was just so strange, immortal, has advanced healing, but still has an intense nut allergy. If one good thing came out of it it was the fact that Matthew now had Riley carry an epipen on him at all times. In fact, Matthew could see the outline of the pen in Riley's left pocket. So, that was comforting.
While Matthew was getting some food from the buffet he just so happened to be near the Italy bro's table.
"You're not eating, again !" Lovino yelled to Feliciano.
"I'm just not hungry…" Feliciaino tried to calm his brother down by keeping his voice low.
"You didn't eat dinner and now you're not eating breakfast! Veneziano…" Lovino sighed, it was a deep sigh; one from inside his very soul.
"We're worried, Fratello," Sebastian then added. "We've noticed that…well… your appetite has been rather, er, small as of late."
"I—" Feliciano shook his head. "I'm just not hungry. Really, that's all."
"Tch." Lovino tutted his tongue.
"It's rude to eavesdrop."
Matthew gasped in alarm when Germany, Ludwig, was right there beside him. "Don't do that, Germany." Matthew whispered as he stepped around the burly man to get to the waffles. "You startled me."
"Apologies, I just noticed that you, very clearly, eavesdropped."
"Yeah, I was." He didn't lie as he waited for his waffle to cook. "Apologies. I just heard Lovino—"
"I'm more than aware. I've been keeping tabs on Feliciano myself…has he lost weight to you?"
"I wouldn't know." The lie came quickly to Matthew. "You guys keep me away from him, remember?"
Ludwig chuckled at that and rubbed the back of his head. "I'd be inclined to believe you, if Feliciano didn't already tell me you two shared a room."
Matthew looked at him and then smiled. "Not surprised. You're his biggest confidant. Then you should believe me when I say nothing happened, right?"
"..." Ludwig did not look convinced and Matthew snorted. His waffle finished and Matthew took it from the hot waffle iron.
"Nothing happened. We just shared a bed together." He told Ludwig matter of factly. "Ask Riley if you don't believe me."
"You didn't answer my question," Ludwig said and that made Matthew look at him with a head tilt of confusion. "Has he lost weight to you?"
"No." Matthew grunted as he then started to grab things for his waffle like butter and syrup.
Ludwig sighed. "Be honest."
"..." Matthew looked at Ludwig. "Fine. Yes."
"I need you to be a hundred percent honest with me, Kanada , when I ask this next question. Is he on something? Some sort of drug?"
Matthew sighed as he moved along the line and Ludwig moved with him. "Why would you ask that?"
"I'm not dumb . He's getting his work done. He's more focused. He rearranged his house like four times, he even tried to rearrange my house. Not only that but he's been jittery, according to Lovino, well, you heard. He's not eating, and he's not sleeping. He's never been so…"
"Focused?"
"Exactly. If he's on something then I'd like to know. It's almost like he's… he's on some sort of amphetamine."
'Well…' Matthew couldn't help but think. "Look, Ludwig, I get your concern. I do. But I also know Feli. He'll come to you when he's ready. You know this and so do I."
Ludwig let out a soft sigh. "I suppose you're right. I'm just concerned, we all are. Especially if it's something strong. You know?"
"I know… but ; at the risk of playing devil's advocate… he's getting his work done, isn't he?"
"Of course, but…" Ludwig sighed and then looked over towards the Italy brothers. "He's not the same."
Matthew sighed. "I get what you mean, but you know you can't have it both ways, right?"
"Yeah. I know. I know ."
After breakfast it was time to go to the summit. Most rode with their bosses, Riley and Matthew being one of them. The ride was rather… tense . Pierre had his arms crossed as he glowered at Matthew who was sitting across from him.
Kuma was sitting in Riley's lap while Matthew honestly wished Alfred would have carpooled with them today but he didn't . So, awkward silence it was. The whole way to the summit place. Where Riley was the one to break the icy silence. "Whoa!" He had gasped out. "Look at that building !"
Riley had every right to be impressed, hell, Matthew was impressed. It was easily a forty story building. It also looked new as it was a high-rise. The building was slender as it was tall, and it was cylindrical with reflective windows. "Wow." Matthew agreed, it was a pretty building and impressive.
When they pulled into the parking lot, Matthew could see that the reporters beat them to the punch, not surprising. The rats always knew where to find them. "Here." Matthew took his jacket off and handed it to Riley. "Use this to hide your face. I know paparazzi makes you uncomfortable."
"Thanks."
Pierre sighed and wiped the scowl off of his mouth and tried to make himself look professional. "I'm still mad at you." He told Matthew as he ran his fingers through his hair.
"I couldn't tell with the silent fuming during a twenty minute car ride." Matthew snorted right back.
This made Pierre scowl but he didn't engage. "Let's just get this over with."
The driver found a parking spot and secret service was quick to sweep the three of them towards the front of the building. The three of them were flanked by all sides by secret service. Riley didn't hesitate to use Matthew's jack as a shield and covered his head with it as he focused on ahead.
Once in the paparazzi line of sight Matthew had microphones shoved in his face while people all yelled questions at once. Matthew only smiled and waved but said nothing. Secret service was quick to keep any and all back as the three of them walked inside of the building.
The inside of this building was massive with giant glass windows so they were still being seen from the outside.
"Wow…" Riley whispered as he let the jacket drop and looked around the building in amazement. He had every right to be impressed, Matthew sure as hell was. The ground floor, as mentioned, was massive, and it was clean with tile floors that seemed to gleam and a giant chandelier that hung from the ceiling above their heads.
Matthew whistled lowly just the same. "Now this is fancy…"
"Tell me about it. I feel like I owe them about a billion dollars just for walking in." Riley whispered and Matthew could only agree.
"Alright, Matthew." Pierre sighed and walked up to the trio. "You're with me. Riley, you're with the other micronations. I heard they have a really nice room this year."
"Yay… Let's just hope Sealand and Ladonia don't break into another fist fight." Riley felt his eyes roll. "Regardless, I'm sure the room is nice. At the very least it has to beat last years micronation room."
"Last year wasn't so bad. Germany's building was rather nice, if I recall." Pierre piped up and Riley could only snort.
" You weren't the one shoved in a literal closet with the other micronations."
"It wasn't a closet, Riley." Matthew told him.
"Felt like one."
Matthew laughed as he stood behind Riley and then put his hands on Riley's shoulders. Then he pulled Riley in. Riley looked up at Matthew with big eyes. "Regardless. Go and have fun with the other micronations, eh?"
Riley nodded. "Of course, of course. You go and have fun with adult nations." He then poked his tongue out at Matthew.
"I wish! I bet a fight will probably break out."
"Oh, you think?" Riley laughed. "I still remember my first world meeting. Hungary beat Romania with a chair ."
"Oh yeah…" Matthew then laughed at the memory. "What a crazy day."
"Matthew." Pierre grunted. "Memory lane, later, yeah?"
"Oui. Go on." Matthew then pushed Riley towards the other Micronations who were walking the complete opposite way of the actual nations. "Oh, and take Kuma with you."
"Hey!" Kuma whined. "No! I always go with you! Don't lock me with Sealand !"
" Non , not this time, Kuma."
Kuma let out another whine and stood on his hindlegs. He then pitifully reached for Matthew with both of his paws.
"No, go with Riley, you caused a big distraction last time, remember?"
"Hmph ! " Kuma rose his nose in the air. "I had to use the bathroom! You can't blame me."
"Kuma."
Kuma growled and his ears flicked back before he begrudgingly walked with Riley. "I swear, if I see any sort of paint from Sealand I'm biting his fingers off."
Riley laughed softly. "Don't worry, Kumajenkies, I'll watch over you."
"Who are you, again?"
"Quebec!"
Matthew watched them go for a moment and then he turned and walked with Pierre. "I still haven't seen Russia, have you?" He inquired.
"No. Surprisingly. I figured he'd be in the lobby of the hotel, or even in this lobby, but…nothing."
"Odd. Just odd all around." They walked with the other nations and their bosses towards the meeting room.
"Tell me about it. There's just something weird about this or am I being paranoid?"
"Only the paranoid survive, you know this." Matthew told him.
"Fair enough."
They kept in step with one another all the way towards the giant meeting room. The doors were kept open by the staff of this building and Matthew gave one guy a nod in greeting when they passed one another. As usual, the room was massive, it had the host the entire world after all. Matthew made his way towards the head of the table where the rest of the G8 will also be sitting.
"Oh no…" He whispered when he saw just who he was going to be sitting next to. He and Feliciano stared at one another, he couldn't switch with the person on the other side of Feliciano because he'd still be right next to Feliciano.
The table was oval, so the layout was as such. Right in the center was where Russia would be seating, if he were here . And then on the right of Russia would be America, Germany, Lovino, Feliciano, and then Canada. Now, to the Left of Russia it was Japan, England, and France.
So, not wanting to push anymore buttons this morning, Matthew looked across the table. "Japan." He called to the black haired man and Japan looked at him.
"Hai ? "
"Switch with me?" He inquired and Japan looked confused before realizing the issue.
"Hai! That would be best!" Japan turned to his boss and spoke quickly in Japanese to his boss, probably explaining the situation.
Matthew grabbed his name plate, as well as Pierre's, and walked around to the other side of the table. However; Matthew couldn't help himself, when he passed Feliciano he gave his shoulder just a quick squeeze. It didn't go unnoticed.
"Ey! Hands to yourself!" Lovino huffed.
Pierre reached over quickly and grabbed Matthew's arm. He then kept that arm down as he now led Matthew to his seat. "Let's not dilly-dally, Mat."
"Hoser." Matthew hissed to Pierre in a low voice.
"Takes one to know one." Pierre responded in an equally low hiss.
They got to their seats without too much of a fuss after that. Pierre physically sat Matthew down in his chair before taking his seat next to him.
"Hmph." Arthur grunted at Matthew. "Watch yourself. Matthew."
"Yeah, yeah." Matthew grunted as he put his hand to his cheek and sighed. "I'm surprised Alfred isn't here yet, he's usually one of the first here."
"I noticed that too. I suppose he might have waited around to see if Russia was going to show his face." Arthur hummed. "Something about his president wanting to do some business.' I'm sure."
"Don't get me started." Matthew said without thinking and that earned him a pretty sharp kick to the calf from Pierre. Matthew hissed out in pain and leaned down to rub the growing bruise. " Hoser ." Matthew repeated his earlier insult only this time between gritted teeth right at Pierre.
"Matthew!" Arthur gasped in horror. "Don't talk to your boss like that!"
"I wouldn't be if he wasn't being a hoser ."
Pierre sucked in a deep breath. "And as I said. It takes one to know one, Scivey ."
Matthew felt his eye twitch . Oh, he had something he could say about that insult, however … Britain's Prime Minister leaned forward, eyebrow raised, as he stared at Matthew. Arthur and France were also very much watching, waiting to see if he were to dare act out.
Matthew sucked on his teeth and turned away from Pierre.
"Yeah, that's what I thought."
Matthew decided to keep his mouth shut as the rest of the nations poured in with their respective bosses. Alfred and his president would eventually show up and Alfred looked frazzled for lack of a better word.
"Still no Ivan?" Came China's rather confused voice.
"This isn't like my brother." Belarus added in quickly. "Where is he! He should have been at the hotel yesterday."
There were instant murmurs of confusion and concern. However, before more could be discussed the door opened. In came several workers with carts, on these carts were silver domes, no doubt telling Matthew that there was food under these domes and by the sheer amount of carts there was a lot.
"Apologies," came a male voice. The man, a short and stout man with a big bushy mustache, spoke. "We just got word from Mister Braginsky! He's running late along with his boss, but don't worry, he fears this may be the outcome and has requested we give you guys our finest treat for the wait!" The silver domes were placed on the table before being removed by the staff.
Matthew was immediately turned off by the treat. Simply because it was baklava . He loved baklava, but baklava has nuts in it. Matthew only watched as Alfred's pupils seemed to dilate at the treat. "Oh, nice." All at once several people went for a piece of the baklava. This included, Alfred, Arthur, Francis, Japan— basically everyone from the G8 minus Feliciano and Matthew. Both having two very different reasons for not wanting a treat.
"Matthew, don't be rude." Pierre told Matthew as he then took a bite of the flaky treat. "I know you like baklava."
" Riley , Pierre."
"Riley isn't here." Pierre said with his mouth slightly full.
"That is true, Mon amour! Relax and have a treat!" France encouraged. Matthew looked at the plate and then at everyone else who were happily eating. All along the table it seemed the call of baklava was too good to resist.
"It's not that I don't want any, it's just that Riley still has a nut allergy. If I eat one then I'd have to wash my hands, and face and I don't want to forget . This meeting is going to be long after all."
"He makes a point." Alfred added in as he went for a second piece.
"You're just saying that so you can have more, you glutton." Kiku, honest to god teased Alfred as Japan also went for a second piece.
"Just one…" Matthew heard Ludwig whisper. He looked over to see Ludwig urging a piece to Feliciano. "Please, just one? I know you haven't been eating."
Feliciano, unlike Matthew, would concede and take the treat. Matthew watched him eat. He was eating slowly. It reminded Matthew of Alfred after Thanksgiving; those times where he'd be too full to eat, but would still want to eat so he'd eat slowly and methodically. Matthew watched him for a few more moments and then looked at the dwindling pile. Matthew looked down the table one more time. He watched as everyone else enjoyed their treats, hell, Sweden and Finland were literally feeding pieces to each other.
He was literally the only one not eating. That did look rude, didn't it?
So, with a weak sigh; Matthew looked at Pierre. Pierre raised an eyebrow as he, like Alfred, was currently enjoying his second piece. "Remind me to wash my hands and face after the meeting, eh?"
Pierre nodded as his mouth was full.
Matthew then reached for a piece, he paused when he heard Feliciano suddenly speak. "What's in that?" His voice sounded small.
"Honey and nuts, dude." America told him and Feliciano shook his head as he tried to scoot out of his chair.
"I don't—" Then he was on the floor, he didn't even get up, once he backed up enough he slid from his chair to the floor.
"Feliciano! " It was an outcry from nearly everyone. Chairs scraped and people were on their feet in a second to check on him.
Then Alfred fell. Much like Feliciano he just toppled over like he lost all function in his body. It was just a domino effect after that. One by one people, prime ministers, presidents, nations collapsed from their seat or standing.
Matthew's heart almost seemed to stutter as he watched in horror. He was the only one still standing . "Hang on! I'll get help! I'll get help!" He called as Pierre hit the ground just the same as everyone else. A noise left Pierre's mouth as he grabbed on to his chest. There was a look of horror on his face right before his eyes rolled back and he went lip on the ground. "Hang on!" Matthew stepped over everyone as quickly as he could. His heart was pounding heavily in his chest, a cold sense of dread wrapped around his throat and nearly choked him.
Matthew got to the door, opened it—
The last thing he saw was the butt of an assault rifle right before it smacked into his head; knocking him out.
A/N Emmène-moi à l'hôpital.= Take me to the hospital.
"Oral sedation takes upwards of 30 minutes." Yeah, yeah. I hear you. Don't forget this stuff is made to knock out literal NATIONS. It's stronger than normal sedation.
"Why was Italy first to faint when he was the last to eat?" He lost weight, one. two: his stomach was empty. He hadn't been eating. Empty stomach plus little to no body fat? Yeah, it went through him faster than the others.
"Where's Russia?" : )
This is for only: What is your DEAL with my italics? Why is this website making me go back in manually just to add them to my story? Which by the why, I'm NOT doing for this chapter. This is a long chapter and I don't want to go back through to add it in. And wonders why so many people are moving on to Ao3
