Reading your comments from Chapter 16 is just like-

wheeeze-

I'm really surprised but at the same time...what? Happy? That you guys are putting really funny comments despite the really depressing situation.

I love you all.
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North Korea POV

China and I were walking to homeroom. I had begged him for us to not go but he insisted. He also told me that Taiwan would beat his butt if he found out he skipped homeroom, or any type of class.

I was still reluctant to go to class. China had wiped away my tears but I was afraid if tear stains were there. I turned to China and asked, "Is there anything hinting that I was crying?"

China cupped my face in his hands and shook his head. "No, nothing at all. Wait...there is something."

"What is it?"

China brought my face closer to his and kissed me. "A kiss." He smirked.

I playfully frowned. "You idiot."

China chuckled. He proceeded to kiss every part of my face. "Chinnaaaaa stahhhhhppppp!" I giggled and tried pushing him off.

China laughed and pulled me into a hug. We laughed for a bit in the hug.

Then the late bell for homeroom rang.

Our eyes widened. We shared a glance and then sprinted to homeroom. And by we sprinted to homeroom I mean China practically dragged me because he's way faster.

We were panting by the time we reached it. We took a few deep breaths and then China opened the door. Every student in the class looked at us. Ms. Applebloom looked at us.

China and I stared at her. We were waiting for the question of "Why are you late?". But surprisingly it never came. Ms. Applebloom motioned for us to sit down. "I'm not gonna count it against your grades, I'm just glad you're here. I don't care why you were late."

I breathed a silent sigh of relief and followed China inside. We walked to our desks and sat down. Countries quickly started talking amongst themselves again.

South leaned over to me. "Hey, I know you don't like talking to me but...are you okay?"

I slightly nodded. No point in being rude and dismissing it when he saw my cry and run off. "Just don't talk about it.."

South nodded. He looked at Ms. Applebloom. She was on her phone and wasn't paying any attention to the countries.

He turned and pulled something out of his jacket pocket. He set it on my desk. It was a gift. "You can look at it later, just please...take it."

The gift was a small box, so small you could fit in your pocket, but it was still big enough for you to notice it. It had a tiny version of my flag on it, and apart from my flag, the box was white and had a orange ribbon wrapped around it.

I felt a few countries looking at me. It was still loud in the classroom though. I overheard Australia say something to Greece. "Guaranteed he'll throw it out when he getz the chance, am I right?"

To be completely honest, I was sorta, maybe, a little bit, the tiniest bit, planning on it. But a big part of me was curious.

And...at the same time...wanted it?

I was really confused now. I never liked anything South gave me. I always got rid of it or put it somewhere so I would never see it again. I never cared if it hurt his feelings.

Then, why do I want it now?

I stared at the gift for a few seconds. "Please North, please take it. You can throw it out anytime you want, just please look at it when you get home." South begged me.

Every country was looking at us now. I looked up at South, preparing myself to say no, but I stopped myself. South's eyes were glistening, preparing themselves to shed some tears. His hands were on his desk and they were clenched into fists.

"Please North..."

I glanced at South and the gift a few times. I took it and held it close. "Fine." I muttered.

"감사합니다. (Thank you)" South nodded, smiling. He turned back around and started writing on a piece of paper he pulled out.

Countries stopped focusing on me but I continued to stare at the gift. What could be inside that South would beg me to keep? Something that'll make him want to cry in the process of convincing me?

I looked over at China and we made eye contact. "안에 무엇이 있을까요? (What could be inside?)" China asked.

I shrugged. "집에 도착할 때까지 보지 말아야합니다. 원한다면 나와 함께 갈 수있어. (I'm not supposed to look at it until I get home. You can come with me if you want.)"

"아니. (No.)" South said, firmly. He almost sounded like he was angry.

China and I looked at him. He looked at us. "북쪽 만이 볼 수 있습니다. 중요합니다. (Only North can see it. It...it's important.)"

China and I shared a confused glance but said nothing. I put the gift in my pocket. The rest of our time in that room was pretty awkward to say the least. China and I had a small conversation that didn't last long, and we all know I don't talk to anyone else in that class.

Once the bell that dismissed the homeroom class rang, I sped out of there. China followed close behind and I felt like South was watching me as I left. I went to my locker and grabbed my books for class, China did the same.

"That was weird." China said, grabbing his science book.

"Yeah." I grabbed my social studies book. "It was really weird."

We didn't say much. We walked to our designated classrooms (which are across the hall from each other wtf) in silence.

We saw our classrooms and were about to split to head inside. China quickly kissed my cheek and walked away. I walked into my classroom and found my desk.

When I sat down more countries came inside. They were all being really loud, yelling about whatever to their friends. I covered my (nonexistent) ears.

When they all were settled in their seats the teacher raised her hand. The class went silent and I let my hands down. The teacher sighed. "Alright class, I have a headache so we won't do a lesson today. Do whatever at your desk. Also, I might not be able to hear you that well, so if you're calling me and it seems like I'm ignoring you, I'm not, I just can't hear you because of the ringing in my ears. Tap my shoulder if you need anything."

As soon as she finished, the countries in the room started chatting away. I pulled out the gift South gave me and looked at it. I wanted to open it so bad, what was inside it that was so important?

I was about to put it back in my pocket when someone grabbed it away from me. Startled, I looked up and saw Netherlands standing over me, holding the gift in his hand.

"What's this? A gift? Who is it for? Or did someone give it to you?" He asked, examining it. A smile was on his face.

I growled. "Give it back, Netherlands. Who gave it to me is none of your buisness."

Netherlands smiled faltered. "Jeez dude, I was just wondering. No need to be so rude."

He was about to give tbe gift back but a country stood up and walked to him.

Fricking Sweden.

I almost cursed under my breath. Sweden looked at Netherlands and then the gift. "Actually, I have a better idea Netherlands. Why don't you give it to me?"

"But it's North Korea's gift, someone gave it to him. Therefore the gift belongs to him." Netherlands said, looking confused.

I quickly groped for the gift. "Give it to me, Netherlands."

Netherlands was about to give it back to me but Sweden blocked him. "You don't seem to understand Netherlands, I was the one who gave him the gift. I realized the thing I wanted inside isn't in there."

Netherlands no longer looked confused. "Oh! That makes sense. Here you go."

Before I could say anything Netherlands gave Sweden the gift. Sweden did an evil smirk for a split second. "Thanks man! North, I'll give this to you later, alright?"

My mouth hung open. "I-I.."

"Oh, don't worry. I'll give it to you tomorrow when the correct thing is inside. Don't miss it too much, okay?"

Sweden laughed and went back to his seat. Netherlands placed a hand on my shoulder with a smile. "You'll have it back in no time, don't worry!"

Tears threatened to pour from my eye. "Sweden didn't give me the gift..." I murmered.

"Huh?"

I looked up at him, a single tear falling down. "Sweden didn't give me the gift, South Korea did!"

Netherlands gasped. "Oh... Hold on."

He walked over to Sweden. He and Sweden started talking. When Netherlands reached for the gift Sweden turned hostile and smacked his hand away. Netherlands basically had to wrestle the gift out of Sweden's hands.

Netherlands walked back over, holding the gift protectively. He gave it back to me. "There you go, sorry I gave it to Sweden. I didn't know."

I sighed, holding the gift to my chest. "It's alright...and...thanks."

Netherlands looked shocked for a moment. Understandable because I have a reputation for not saying thank you to people.

He gently smacked his cheeks. "You're welcome."

He walked back to his desk. It was then that I realized countries were staring at me. I looked around and they all sat wide-eyed with their mouths agape.

I felt awkward and slouched down in my desk, desperately waiting for the bell to ring.

Time skip

I was waiting for China by my locker. It was lunchtime now and I was holding my lunchbox. I saw him walking over to me and waved. I waved back, smiling. I noticed someone behind him and cocked my head to the side.

When China was in hearing range I asked, "Who is that?"

China looked confused for a second but then he figured it out. "Oh! The person behind me?"

I nodded. China stepped aside. "You've met each other already."

Netherlands stood there. "Hey North, I hope you don't mind that I told China what happened during history."

I shrugged. "Eh, it's whatever. But what are you doing here?"

"I uh..." Netherlands stuttered. "Jezus, hoe zeg ik dit?" (Jeez how do I say this?)

"Lǎoxiōng, wǒmen bù huì shuō hélán yǔ." (We don't speak Dutch, dude.) China said.

Netherlands looked at China in confusion. China raised a brow. "Oh!" Netherlands shouted. "Sorry. I uh, I want to eat lunch with you."

My eyes widened. "응? (Huh?)"

"What did you say?" Netherlands asked.

"I said huh, but anyway. No one wants to sit with us. Actually, people like sitting with China it's just me they avoid."

Netherlands shrugged. "My friends have been saying mean things about you lately, I don't like that kind of stuff. You're actually pretty nice."

I looked at the ground. "Of course..." I muttered.

China hugged me. I hugged back and closed my eye.

"Awh!" Netherlands squealed.

China and I pulled away. "Let's go to lunch now." I said.

Time skip

As we walked to our table I noticed South Korea was already sitting there. I still went over nonetheless, the other tables were crowded with countries, heck no.

I walked over and stood looking at South. He turned to me. "이봐 노스! (Hey North!)"

"왜 여기 앉아? (Why are you sitting here?)" I asked, my eye narrowing.

South frowned. "Ame and I got into a fight. I don't want anything to do with him right now."

I shrugged and sat beside China. South scooted closer to me and Netherlands sat in front of us. "I reckon other countries might sit here, like Iran, Indonesia, them." South said, opening his lunchbox.

I nodded. I tried to ignore South but I found I couldn't. This is strange because I am really good at ignoring people, especially South. I tried multiple times but failed each time. I found myself turned to him, listening to what he was saying.

"I'm not sure how long I'm gonna be mad at America. He promised! He fricking promised that he wouldn't say anything mean about you! And what does he do? Say all that stuff to your face. I should change the subject before I start screaming.

"You know those chocolate pies that I always make? I ran out of the ingredients to make them yesterday, and when I went to the store to get some more the store was freaking closed. Like come on!

"I've actually been working on something for quite a while now, and I'm almost done with it. I feel like I'm missing something though.

"I want to listen to BLACKPINK a lot more. I barely listen to them. It's shame because I like a lot of their songs. Who am I kidding I like all K-Pop. You know what's funny? North, you remind me of Jisoo. Remember when we used to sing together? You sound like Jisoo.

"Oh look! Iran and Indonesia are coming."

I was honestly surprised when South stopped talking. I thought he'd go on forever. But sure enough, Iran and Indonesia were walking toward us.

South tapped my shoulder. I turned to him. "으르렁 거려서 미안해, 내가 고른 것... 누군가... (Sorry for rambling, it's something I picked up from...someone...)"

I nodded and turned back to Iran and Indonesia. They had reached us now. "Hey, I'm gonna go hang out with Philippines and Malaysia, sampai jumpa." (See ya) Indonesia said.

We all nodded and he left. "Philip! Malay!"

Iran sat down. "So how you guys doing?"

"Mooi zo." (Good)

"Hǎo." (Good)

"좋은. (Good.)"

"좋은. (Good.)"

Iran looked at all of us in confusion. "Excuse me, what?"

Netherlands laughed. "I said good."

"I said good as well." China replied.

South responded for both me and him. "North and I both said good, too."

Iran stared at South. "Why is he here?"

"He got into a fight with America. Doesn't want anything to do with him as of right now."

Iran beamed. "Great! Another country that hates America!"

South stared at him. "Dude, I'm mad at him, I don't hate him."

Iran looked disappointed. He sighed and set his elbow on the table. He rested his face in his hand. "خجالت آوره. ما می توانستیم کاری بکنیم تا از آن گنگ آمریکایی انتقام بگیریم." (That's a shame. We could've done something to get revenge on that dumb American.)

Google translate doesn't have the pronunciation waahhhh...

We all stared at Iran, confused. He rolled his eyes. "It doesn't matter what I said."

"You asked about our day so...how is your day?" Netherlands asked.

"Bad. That dumb Iraqi bumped into me in the hallway. I dropped all my books. He wanted to help me pick them up but I'm not letting an Iraqi touch my stuff. He got upset when I pushed him away and ran off. I swear he-"

I tuned Iran out as he ranted about Iraq and probably America. South leaned over and whispered to me. "언제 멈출 것 같아요? (When do you think he'll stop?)"

I shrugged. I was so confused on why I wasn't annoyed with South being there, let alone constantly talking to me.

I was ripped from my thoughts when I saw China getting up. I grabbed his hand. "아기 (Babe) where are you going?"

China smiled at me. "I'm gonna talk to Taiwan."

"I thought you guys didn't like each other?"

China shrugged. "Ever since he announced...that...we've been getting along a little better."

I gripped his hand harder. China sighed. "Relax North, I'll...be right back."

I let go of his hand and he walked away towards Taiwan's table. I turned back and saw Iran talking to Netherlands. I guess Iran was speaking Persian because Netherlands had a really confused look on his face. He glanced at me.

"Hey uh, Iran? Maybe you should chill." South Korea suggested.

Iran stopped talking. He seemed to be reflecting on himself when he sighed. "Yeah, maybe I should. Sorry about ranting to you guys, especially you Netherlands."

"Oh, it's fine! I have no idea what you said anyway."

We all laughed. Iran looked around. "Hey-where's China?"

"He went to talk to his brother."

"Wait wha- China's willingly talking to his brother?" South asked.

"Yeah. He said they're getting along a lot better ever since that happened."

They nodded. Netherlands, South, and Iran started talking while I remained silent, eating my food. We sat like this for two minutes until China came back. He sat down and wrapped his arm around my waist.

We all started talking now. Nothing important, just random things that came to our heads.

Time skip

It was the end of the school day. I was waiting for China at the entrance of the school. I was on my phone and heard someone approaching me. I looked up and saw South walking over. I noticed the other countries staring at us, some of them whispering.

When South reached me he smiled. "Hey North."

I nodded to him. "What is it."

He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled something out. He took my hand and placed it inside. He wrapped my fingers around it. "Keep that."

Without another word he walked away. I stared after him, bewildered. Countries started talking immediately.

"What was that about?"

"South gave something to him, but what?"

"What the frick?"

"Are they getting along now?"

"You heard the rumours, South gave North a gift in homeroom and North accepted it."

"I hear South had to cry to get him to accept it."

"North Korea is so heartless, he likes seeing other people in pain."

I tuned out their conversations and looked at the hand he put whatever it was inside. I slowly opened it and it revealed a necklace.

There was a black dot that clicked apart and together, allowing you to put it on and take it off. Silver chains streamed down and connected South Korea's flag at the bottom, made of tiny diamonds. My flag was also there, underneath South's and was made with tiny diamonds like South's.

I stared at the necklace. South made this for me? This day just keeps getting weirder and weirder. First, South gives me a present that I can't throw out or open until I get home, he sits at lunch with me, he got into a fight with America, and he gave me this necklace?!

I felt a tap on my shoulder and looked up. China looked at the necklace. "He gave that to you?"

I nodded. "China, do you know what's going on?"

China looked away. "You wanna know why it took a while for me to come out?"

I nodded. China sighed. "South wanted to talk to me. He told me why he was giving you these gifts, and asked me to never tell you."

"Well, can you tell me anyway?"

China shook his head. "I promised him. I'm sorry North, but if I told you then..."

I raised a brow. "Then what?"

"Nevermind. Let's just go home."

"Wait China, what did South tell you?"

China grabbed my other hand and we walked away. "I can't tell you. I'm sorry."

I opened my mouth to argue but China covered it. "North please, not telling you something like this is painful for me enough. Please don't make it worse for me."

"But-"

"I promised him. I can't break a promise."

I sighed. "Fine. This doesn't mean I'm not mad though."

China smiled and gently squeezed my cheeks. "You're cute when you're mad."

"Stop it!" I cried, blushing.

China chuckled. We continued to walk to home. China walked with me until I got to my house, and then walked away to go to his.

I looked at the necklace I still gripped in my hand. I stared at for a while before unlocking my door. I walked inside my house and closed the door. I walked upstairs and into my room.

I sat on my bed and pulled out tbe gift South gave me. I looked at both the necklace and gift. Looking at them made me feel...warm?

What? I actually like something South gave me? Two somethings?

Unknowingly, I smiled. I put the necklace on and held onto the flags.

What the heck is going on?!

While my conscious was freaking out my body kept acting on it's own. I gazed at the gift and wanted to open it. I reached to open it but my hand stopped.

It felt like my conscious was finally getting along with my body again. I opened the gift and stared in shock at what was inside.

My hand shook as I picked it up. It was a picture of me, South, Mom, and Dad...

Our old flags... Our old clothes... I was wearing an eyepatch in the picture but it was a round square with no decoration.

I started shaking, a certain memory coming back to me.

Third Person POV

Flashback

It was a sunny day outside. The birds were chirping from their nests and the bees pollinated flowers. Butterflies flew around and small animals were about. Korea (North) sat on a bench reading a book. He always enjoyed reading, but he enjoyed spending time with his brother more.

Speak of the devil, here he comes.

The other Korean was running over to his younger twin, excited to tell him something. The brother that was sat on the bench glanced up and smiled. When he saw his brother happy, it made him happy.

"동료! 엄마와 아빠가 뭐라고했는지 맞춰보세요! (Brother! Guess what Mom and Dad told me!)" The older twin exclaimed, his Korean words coming out swift because of his excitement.

Neither brother spoke English at the time, they spoke their native languages. In fact, they didn't even know such language was out there!

"뭐? 그들이 무엇을 말했습니까? (What? What did they tell you?)" The younger of the twins exclaimed, jumping up. The book he was reading fell to the ground, but he paid no mind to it.

The other brother was jumping up and down, still full of energy despite running from the house to the edge of their gigantic backyard. "우리는 한국의 남부를 방문 할 것입니다! 대단하지 않습니까?! (We're going to visit the southern part of Korea! Isn't that great?!)"

The younger twin's excitement dwindled. "정말요? 우리가 북쪽을 방문하면 더 재미있을 것입니다. (Aw, really? It'd be way more fun if we visited the North side.)"

Both of the brothers loved Korea, but there were parts of it that they each loved separately. The older of the twins favoured the south more, and the other favoured the north more. They never despised each other because of this, but decided to give each other nicknames that even their parents call them. The eldest was nicknamed South, while the younger was nicknamed North.

North adjusted his eyepatch. He had accidently smacked it when he jumped up, causing it to move a little. This made it uncomfortable. South giggled. "걱정 마세요! 아빠는 우리가 다음에 북쪽을 방문 할 것이라고 말합니다! (Don't worry! Dad said we'll visit the north next time!)"

North brightened up at this. He then smirked. "안녕, 사우스. (Hey, South.)"

"응? (Huh?)"

North briskly tapped his brother's shoulder and ran off. "넌 끝이야! (You're it!)"

"왜 네가! (Why you!)" South laughed and ran after his brother. They chased each other around. They were about the same speed so it was quite hard to catch the other.

They were about to run into the hedge maze but a male Korean voice called out from the house. "애들 아! 거기에 뛰어 들지 마십시오, 당신은 길을 잃을 것입니다! (Kids! Don't run in there, you'll get lost!)"

The brothers turned around and saw their father standing at the doorway. They smiled brightly and ran to him. "아버지! (Father!)" They called.

Korean Empire bent down to hug his children as they ran into him. He picked them up and carried them inside. North and South were giggling to each other. Their mother, Korean Unification, was sat on the couch reading while a maid washed dishes. She turned around when she heard her children's giggles. "문제가 생겼나요? (You got those troublemakers?)" She jokingly asked with a smile.

"물론 그렇습니다. 그들은 거의 헤지 미로를 만났다! (Sure did. They almost ran into the hedge maze!)" Korean Empire laughed.

North started pulling on South's hanbok, and in return South pulled on North's hanbok. This continued until their father exclaimed, "당신이 소년들이 간질 간 괴물을 원하지 않는다면 튜닉을 당기지 마십시오! (Unless you boys want the tickle monster after you, stop pulling on your hanboks!)"

North and South laughed. "간질 괴물이 아닙니다! (Not the tickle monster!)"

Korean Reunification glanced outside. "소년들? 날씨는 어땠어? (Boys? How was the weather?)"

"정말 따뜻한 엄마! 꽤 밖에 있어요! (Really warm Mom! It's pretty outside as well!)" North exclaimed.

"그럼, 오늘 사진을 찍어 봅시다. 최근 날씨가 미쳤다. (Well then, let's go and take a picture of this day. The weather has been crazy, lately.)"

They all went outside and sat in the grass. They all got into positions; Korean Empire and Korean Unification being in the back, and North and South sat on their laps.

A servant prepared the camera. "준비된? (Ready?)"

"준비된! (Ready!)" North and South shouted.

They all wore bright smiles in the picture.

End of flashback

North Korea POV

Tears ran down my cheeks as I stared at the picture. South Korea and I's childhood came back to me. The happy times we had... How happy we were...

How close we were.

I hunched forward and covered my mouth. My breathing hitched. My tears streamed. I let out a wail and sobbed.

I don't know how long I was sobbing for, but I felt hands wrap around me and pull me into a hug. I heard China and...South Korea's voice?

Knowing it was China that hugged me, I sobbed into his chest. He rubbed my back and kissed my head. I stopped crying after a while and snuggled closer to him. I looked around and saw South at the door.

"S-South?"

"Hey North."

"Wh-why did you-"

"You need to remember."

"Remember what?"

"Us. You need to remember us. Even if it brings you great sorrow."

And with that, he left.

South Korea POV

I turned and walked out of North's room. I walked back to my house but stopped at the door. I felt I was missing something.

Well, unlike North, I know what I'm missing immediately.

But to my displeasure it was America.

"It's his fault. He promised." I said aloud and went inside. I walked to my bedroom and headed straight to the window. I could see China carrying North Korea out the room.

I smiled. I finally gave him that necklace I had made a while ago, and gave him my "gift". He cried when he remembered that time.

But that isn't the worst thing to cry about, North.

There is much worse.

I walked to my bed. I lay in it staring at the ceiling. You might be wondering what I'm doing. I'll tell you.

I'm trying to repair my relationship with my brother. I've spent too many nights crying. I know I need him back. He might not want to, but I've been observing him today. He wants me back as well.

But he needs to remember important things. I know he's forgotten a lot of our childhood without realizing it.

I am not confident in my plan, at all. But I need to try. I have to try. I have to get him back.

I don't hold a grudge against America or Soviet for separating us. I know, surprising. I used to hate Soviet, but it's hard to hate someone who's dying in the hospital and his kids are emotional.

I tried going to sleep, but to no avail. I switched to a bunch of positions, but I couldn't fall asleep in any of them. I probably wasn't sleeping because it's still early out, but whatever. I want to sleep, now.

Then my phone started ringing. I groaned and answered it. "Hello?"

"Hello, South."

I didn't recognize the voice. I looked at the number and I didn't recognize it. "Who is this? How do you know my name?" I demanded.

The person on the other end laughed. It sounded like a girl. "Oh, that doesn't matter."

"Yes it does, dang it! Who the heck are you?!"

"Whoa whoa whoa, calm down. I haven't yelled once."

Her voice was calm. An eerie calm. It unsettled me, made me nervous. "...What do you want?" I asked.

"Do you know who I am?"

"What the frick kind of question is that?!"

"Do you know who I am?" Her voice unsettled me even more.

"Of course not."

"Good. Though, I'd keep a lookout if I were you. We don't want this killer hurting you or any of your friends, do we?"

I didn't respond.

"And I'm sure you don't want your wittle bwother getting hurt, do you?"

"What?! What are you gonna do to him?! If this is a prank it isn't fricking funny!"

"What made you think this is a prank?"

"What will you do to North!?"

She started laughing hysterically and hung up. I sat there, staring at the wall, my phone still up to my (nonexistent) ear. I looked at my phone again and checked the contact, studying it well.

'Yup, sure as heck don't know this number.' I thought, examining the number for a fifth time. I called the person back and put it up to my (nonexis-you get it) ear.

Instead of ringing, I automatically got those cheesy robot female voices saying to me, "Sorry, this phone number is unavailable. Please check the number and try again."

I hung up and stared at my bed. What the heck is going on? Why is this happening?

What the woman said about North came into my head again. I quickly called China. It didn't even ring once before he picked up. "South? Why are you calling me?"

He was whispering for some reason but I didn't pay any mind. "Is North with you? Is he okay?"

"Yeah, he's with me, he's sleeping on me right now. He's fine."

I breathed a sigh of relief. "Oh, good."

"South, are you okay? You just left and now you call me asking if North is with me and if he's alright."

"I-I just... I got a really creepy call and..." I sighed.

China was silent for a moment. "Tell me about it."

I told him about the eerie call, and how creeped out I was about it. "When I called them back the number was unavailable." I said.

"...Did you recognize the voice?"

"No... I had a feeling I've seen them before, but it wasn't the same person who followed me."

"What do you mean, you've felt like you've seen them before?"

"In plain sight, like at school."

"And you said it sounded like a girl?"

"Yeah."

China was silent for a full minute. "Hello?" I said into the phone.

"This is too creepy," China finally muttered. "Tell UN."

"Okay."

I heard North murmur something in his sleep. "I gotta go, see ya South." China quickly said.

"Bye."

He hung up. I quickly scrolled for UN's contact. Since we never talk and I have so many contacts, it took a while to find him. I eventually did and clicked the call button.

Two rings later, he picked up. "한국 안녕하세요. (Hello South Korea.) What do you need?"

"Hi UN, are you busy?"

"Let's see, I just finished my homework, and I'm currently doing paperwork. Still, you can talk to me."

"Alright, good."

"Is everything alright? You sound nervous."

"I got a creepy call earlier."

"...Continue."

I took a deep breath. Here we go. "I heard a female voice, and she asked if I knew who she was. I didn't. She knew my name somehow. She said to keep a lookout for the killer and then mocked me and threatened my friends and North."

"...This person might be the killer, or is working with the killer."

"What if she is the killer and she's working with the same person who followed America and me?"

"That could be a possibility," UN sighed. "Thank you for telling me this. Did you get anything else?"

"No, sorry."

"That's alright. We'll work with what we got. Goodbye South."

"Bye UN."

He hung up. I sighed and layed down in my bed. Despite talking to China about it, I felt I needed to tell someone else. Not North definitely, I don't want to stress him out. Besides, it's way too early.

Who else then?

'America.' I thought. Despite wanting to hate him, a big part of me wanted to talk with him and repair things. My arm fell over my eyes and I groaned. "Fine, I'll talk to him." I said to no one in particular.

I reached for my phone and scrolled to America's contact. I clicked call and waited. After waiting a while, it went to voicemail. I frowned. Fine then, I'll have to confront you.

I quickly went downstairs and put on my shoes. I pulled on my favorite coat (sweater? Idk) and went outside. I walked to America's house.

When I arrived I rung the doorbell. "On my way!" I heard a british voice call. A few seconds later Britain opened the door. "Why, hello South Korea! It is a surprise seeing you here."

"How so?" I raised a brow.

Britain glanced back inside. "Ame told France and I about what happened between you two. I didn't expect you to come here."

"Oh." I shrugged. "Well, can I come in?"

"Where are my manners? Of course."

Britain stepped aside and I walked inside. "Where is America?" I asked.

"Upstairs in his room."

"Thank you."

I walked to the area the staircase was at. On my way there, I said hi to France, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, basically America's whole family.

I reached the stairs and went up them. When I reached the top I went straight to America's room. I reached it and went straight inside, not even bothering to knock.

America POV

I was with Russia and we were talking about family drama. Well, Russia was talking about family drama, I was listening. He needed to vent to somebody and being his loyal boyfriend, I decided to be the one he vents to.

He was talking about Ukraine when we heard my door open. I groaned, annoyed. "Dad, Mom, whoever is there, we talked about knocking on my door before entering my room!"

"It's funny that you think I'm one of your family members."

I stiffened. I recognized that voice. Russia turned around before me and greeted him. "Hey South."

I turned around slowly. My shades were on so hopefully they hid my eyes getting watery. "S-South?"

South stared at me with a blank expression. "Hello America."

I quickly turned back around. "What are you doing here? Do you want something?" I tried to prevent my voice from shaking.

Russia glanced at the both of us. "Uh...should I go?"

Before I could open my mouth South responded to his question. "Yes, you should. Don't leave the house though. This won't take too long, I hope."

Russia nodded and stood up. I grabbed his hand before he could walk away. He sighed and pat my head. "Relax, Meri. I'll still be here. Once your conversation is over come and find me."

Russia kissed my head. I reluctantly let go of his hand and he walked out.

South closed the door. He walked over to the side of the bed I was at. I hadn't moved. He sat down beside me and it was silent for a few moments.

"Why are you here?" I asked him.

South leaned back and looked up at my ceiling. "Dunno."

"Huh? What do you mean, 'dunno'? Certainly you came here for a reason." I stood up and turned to him. "So what is it? Money? Something I have? Stuff you want back?"

South raised a brow. "What makes you think I want something I gave you back? I gave it to you for a reason."

"But we were friends when you gave me those things-"

"And we're still friends."

I gaped at him. "I- Huh?"

South chuckled. "I never unfriended you, America. Sure, I called you a liar, but I never said the words 'we aren't friends anymore'."

"But... But what about the things I said to your brother?"

South's smile disappeared. "Yes, I am still upset about what you said." He sighed. "Tell you what, if you give North a genuine apology we can hang out again."

I smiled but it disappeared in a second. "What's the catch?"

South smiled at me. "It's either a letter you write and walk up to him to give it to him, or you apologize yourself, with your voice."

I sighed. I never liked North, and I still don't, despite seeing him cry. Well, maybe I care about him a little bit, because of the whole bullying thing. But I still overall don't like him.

"Fine. You got a deal." I said.

South nodded and stood up. "Remember, we can't hang out unless you apologize one of those two ways."

I nodded as he walked away. "Goodbye South."

"Bye oil addict."

I chuckled at the nickname. South left my room and I heard his footsteps echo down the hall.

Russia POV

I was sitting at a table with France. I saw South Korea come down the stairs. "Hi Russia." He said.

"Hello South. What did you and Ame talk about?"

"America can tell you, I have to go."

"Oh, okay. See you."

"Annyeong." (Bye)

I assume he said bye. South walked away and left the house. I looked at France, who was across the table from me drinking some wine. "How much wine do you drink? That's your third bottle."

France lowered the drink. "I know you're not asking that question. Russie, you and your dad drink more vodka than I do wine."

I shrugged. "That's fair. Say, how much tea does that british guy drink?"

"His name is Britain, United Kingdom, or UK. He drinks the same amount of tea you and your dad drink vodka."

"Isn't that a little...unhealthy?"

"We're countries, that type of stuff doesn't bother us."

Britain walked out of the kitchen with a cup of tea. "I heard my name, are you talking about me, love?"

"Russia was asking silly questions mon amour, he asked a question about your tea drinking."

Britain made a 'oh' expression. He sat beside France and took a sip of tea. I looked in the direction South had come from and wondered where America was. I turned back to the two older countries when I felt the table move a slight bit.

Britain was covering his face. I could see he was blushing. I glanced at France and she was laughing. "Don't be so embarrassed, l'amour! (Love)"

Britain shook his head. I noticed his cup of tea was knocked over, probably from when he freaked out about whatever he freaked out about and covered his face. France reached over and removed his hands from his face. Britain was bright red and avoided eye contact.

France laughed again. "Oh my little Brit, you are so cute!"

Britain squeaked and got up. He freed his hands and ran off. France got up and followed him. I stared after them, dumbfounded.

America came inside shortly after, he stared in the direction his parents ran. He looked at me. "Uh...do you know what that was about?"

I shrugged. "I think France called Britain cute, and then Britain turned flushed. Then France called him cute again and Britain ran off with France following him."

America nodded and sat beside me. "Is this uh...normal for you?" I asked him.

He shrugged. "Sometimes it happens. Sometimes it doesn't. We never expect it."

"Why doesn't Britain like being called cute?"

America shrugged. "Don't know. It's whenever France calls him cute is when he gets flustered, but if it's anyone else it doesn't bother him."

I nodded. Australia, Canada, and New Zealand walked in. America waved to them. "Hey guys!"

They waved back. "Meri, why is Mom chasing Dad around the house? Dad is blushing a lot too." New Zealand said.

"Mom called him cute two times."

"Oh."

We heard Britain shriek from somewhere in the house. We heard running and saw Britain run passed the doorway. France ran passed the doorway shortly after.

We stared at the doorway for a few seconds. New Zealand turned to America. "Ame, can you make some food? I'm hungry."

"How about I get McDonalds instead."

Canada shook his head. "Ame you can't get McDonalds, you already used your chance last week. Remember, you can only get McDonalds once a month."

"Then I'll get Burger King."

Canada opened his mouth to protest but closed it. He thought for a moment and shrugged. "Dad didn't say anything about Burger King."

America smirked. Australia went to the kitchen. "Детка, у тебя есть водка? (Babe do you have any vodka?)" I asked America.

Australia had come back in with a cup of water. America's siblings looked at me with confused expressions. America however, knew what I said. "No, Russia. Britain doesn't allow vodka in the house."

I groaned. "Why not?" I whined.

"He says he doesn't like the smell."

"Well can you buy some on your way back?"

"Russia, no. Even I'm not that crazy."

"I'll just wait for you outside the house."

"Russia-"

"Britain said no vodka in the house. I'm gonna drink it outside."

America looked at me for a moment. He sighed. "Хорошо. (Fine.)" He said.

"Спасибо тебе, тупой американец. (Thank you, you stupid american.)"

"Как бы то ни было, скоро пьют русские. (Whatever, soon to be drunk russian.)"

"Ame, what are you and the lad zaying?" Australia asked.

America glanced at him. "Nothing important."

Australia was about to say something else but another one of Britain's shrieks drowned it out. "France please!"

"You can't escape me, l'amour!"

Britain shrieked again. America payed no mind to it. "Nada can you get my jacket and wallet?"

Canada nodded and left the room. I followed America as he walked to the front door and put his shoes on. Canada walked to us and handed America his jacket and wallet. "Get something for everyone."

America nodded. "Thanks Can."

I followed America outside and sat on his porch. America walked to his car and got in. He started it and drove off.

Time skip

I was looking around, enjoying the scenery. I saw someone walking in the distance. I didn't pay any mind to them and continued looking around. However, they started walking to me.

They reached me and blocked my view completely. I was sitting down so I had to look up. I realized it was Turkey. He smiled and waved to me.

I smiled and waved back. "Hey Turkey."

"Hey Rusya. What are you doing here?"

"Trying to get stress out. You?"

"I'm just taking a walk." Turkey sat down beside me. "How is the scenery?"

"Good. It's helping me relax."

"That's nice to know. I hope you and your siblings are okay. I also hope your father gets better."

"Thank you, Turkey."

"No problem."

"What do you think of the killer going around? The one who killed everyone in that aparment building."

Turkey shrugged. "I don't know. Sometimes I'm nervous, sometimes I straight up don't care."

"You're not bothered by the fact that they killed at least 50 people?"

"I told you, I'm not sure." Turkey sighed. "I guess you could say I'm indifferent. My friends are freaking out about it, but my emotions about it are all over the place."

I nodded. Turkey sat with me for a few more seconds before getting up. "I need to get going, gotta continue my walk."

"Need to get that cardeo?"

Turkey chuckled and walked away. "Yeah!"

I sat there for a bit longer. I saw America's car in the distance. I eagerly waited for my vodka.

America POV

I pulled into the driveway. I saw Russia walk over to my car. I had went to Burger King and got burgers and fries for me and my siblings, and then went to a liquor store to buy a bottle of vodka for Russia.

I opened the door. I grabbed the two bags from Burger King; one bag with four burgers and one bag with four fry bags with one hand, and grabbed the bottle of vodka with the other.

I used my hip to close the door and walked to Russia. "Here's your vodka you alcoholic."

Russia took the bottle. "Only one? Come on, Ame."

I raised a brow at him. "I'm not letting you get drunk, Britain will immediately know about the vodka if you do."

Russia scoffed and rolled his eyes. I giggled and kissed his cheek. "When you're finished come back inside."

"Ага-ага. (Yeah, yeah.)"

I went inside and into the dining room. As soon as my siblings smelled burgers they came running in. "Food!" Australia shouted.

I laughed and set the bags down. I grabbed my burger and fries and turned to them. "You each get one burger and one bag of fries."

They grabbed their share (though Kiwi and Aussie fought over a burger) and began eating. I gulped down my burger and fries and looked around. "Is Mom still chasing Dad?"

Canada shook his head. "They stopped five minutes ago. Britain got tired and France tackled him."

I chuckled at the thought. I stood up. "I'm joining Russia outside."

They nodded and I went. I opened the door and saw Russia sit the half empty bottle down. He noticed me there and smiled. "Hey Ame."

"Hiya Rus." I sat down beside him.

"Why did you join me out here?"

"Can't I spend time with my boyfriend?"

Russia chuckled and picked up the bottle. He chugged what was left down. He set the empty bottle down and sighed. "That was refreshing."

I rolled my eyes. "Well, you better find somewhere to throw it out. Somewhere that isn't in the house."

Russia smiled. He then put the bottle in my hands. "You figure it out."

"Hey! It's your bottle!"

"But you bought it."

"Only because you wanted it!"

Russia looked at me with pleading eyes. You know that thing your hands do when you plead someone for something? He was doing that. "Please Ame? I don't know the neighborhood that well. I only know how to get to your house. Can you please figure something out?"

"Um..."

Russia's blue eyes seemed to get wider, the afternoon sun causing them to sparkle. "Pleeeaaassseee?"

I sighed, defeated by Russia's cuteness. "Okay, I'll figure something out."

"Yay!" Russia hugged me. I hugged him back. He pulled away and I sighed again, looking at him. "Why do you have to be so cute when you want to be?"

Russia laughed. "Dunno. My family often says I act cute too, but I'm not even trying around them."

"Maybe certain emotions just make you act cute without you realizing it."

Russia snorted. "Like when?"

"That time you went to Mall of America with me and my family. You were so excited and you looked so cute the entire time, especially when you were eating that cotton candy I bought for you."

Russia blushed. He huffed and looked away. "Хотя эта сладкая вата была хорошей. (That cotton candy was good though.)"

I laughed. "Hey, don't be upset about it."

Russia ignored me and crossed his arms. "Fine then." I said. I hugged him tightly. Russia tried pushing me off. "Hey! Get off!"

"Not until you stop ignoring me."

"It's not like I can ignore you if your sucking all the air out of me!"

"So you'll stop ignoring me?"

"Oh my god! Да! (Yes!)"

I let go of Russia and he turned back to me. I giggled. I gripped the vodka bottle tightly in my hands and stood up. "I'm gonna take this to Mexico's trash can. People are always putting stuff in his trash so he doesn't even care anymore."

Russia stood up. "I'll go with you."

I nodded. Russia followed me down the street as I walked to Mexico's house. I reached it and just put the vodka bottle in the trashcan that was beside his house.

Russia and I then walked back to my house. We got there and went inside. I could hear Australia shouting, so I assume he's arguing with someone or playing a video game.

Canada was reading on a comfy rocking chair. "Hey Ame."

"Hey Nada. What are you reading?"

"A biography."

"That's so boring! Why don't you read something else?"

Canada shook his head. "I wanna finish this first."

"Alright Boreville."

Russia tapped my shoulder. I turned around and he kissed my cheek. "I have to go. Bye."

"Bye."

Russia left the house. I walked to the kitchen because I heard water running. France was washing dishes. She clicked her tongue. "J'ai demandé à l'Australie de faire la vaisselle, pas d'en ajouter plus." (I asked Australia to do the dishes, not add more.)

"Hey Mom?" I asked.

France glanced back at me. "Hello Ameriquè. What do you need?"

"Do you know where Dad is?"

"Why?"

"No reason."

France shrugged. "Britain said he was going somewhere important. Not sure where."

I nodded and walked away to go to my room.

Britain POV

I was in my car driving to the hospital Soviet was at. France had caught me leaving and I told her I was going somewhere important and I had just remembered it. She hugged me and let me leave.

I sighed. I hated lying to France. I hated lying in general. But I didn't want her worrying and asking questions.

I shook my head to clear my thoughts. I kept driving until I parked in the parking lot. I got out and walked to the entrance. The receptionist saw me and smiled. "Who would you be visiting today?"

"Soviet Union."

"You're full name?"

"The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland."

"Ah, Britain. I'm sure you know what room he is in?"

"Yes, 156."

"Alright. You might not be able to enter. It is probable that you will though."

"Okay, thank you."

"You're welcome."

I walked through the doors and down the hallway. I walked for a good three minutes before coming up to room 156. I sat down in one of the chairs there and sighed, leaning back.

"Why did this have to happen to you, Soviet?" I whispered to myself. "Now you're on the brink of death. Please don't leave me. Don't leave your kids, your friends. Everyone..."

"Excuse me, sir?"

I heard what sounded like a child's voice. I looked down and saw a kid looking at me. Her flag had America's design, but had my flag where America's stars would be, and the stripes were a pattern of white, red, and blue.

Hawaii.

Hawaii's eyes widened. We stared at each other for a while. Hawaii suddenly smiled and jumped up. She hugged me as tight as she could. "Britain!"

"Hawaii! I haven't seen you since 1898!"

"I missed you so much!"

Hawaii looked up at me and we laughed. Hawaii and I had a very good friendship back then. In 1898 she didn't show up to a meeting that we had. I haven't seen her since.

"So what are you doing here that the hospital?" Hawaii asked me.

I sighed. "Visiting a friend, but I don't think I'm allowed to go in."

Hawaii hugged me. "I hope your friend gets better."

I chuckled. "Thanks, Paradise."

"You remembered?!"

"Of course I did. I remember everything that happened from the moment I was born. Well, everything but..."

"But what?"

"Nevermind." I sighed.

Hawaii looked at me, worried. "We should leave. You seem sad."

"I am pretty upset... Lead the way."

Hawaii took one of my hands and pulled me away. "E hele kākou i ka mākeke a hopu!" (Let's go to the park and catch up!)

"Uh...sorry Hawaii. But I don't understand Hawaiian." I said.

Hawaii nodded. "We're going to the park to catch up. You won't believe how many things have happened to me since 1898!"

I chuckled. "And I can't wait to find out."

Time skip

Hawaii had just finished telling me about all the other states that she sees as her siblings. I was trying to comprehend what I just heard. "So you've been a US state since 1959, right?"

"Ae. (Yes.)"

With what little Hawaiian I knew, I know she said yes. Hawaii kicked her legs back and forth on the swing she was on. I sighed. "Have you...gotten better? From Pearl Harbor."

Hawaii stared at the ground. She shook her head. "It's a sore subject...no one talks about it around me."

"Sorry."

"It's okay. You didn't know."

I got behind Hawaii. "Do you want me to push you?"

She perked up. "ʻAe, e ʻoluʻolu!" (Yes please!)

I gently pushed her. "Higher!" She squeeled.

I laughed and pushed her higher. She was squeeling with joy. I was pushing her for about five minutes before I heard footsteps. I stepped aside and let Hawaii continue swinging.

"L'amour. (Love.)"

I turned around and saw France. She had her arms crossed and she looked upset. "This doesn't look like something important."

I sighed. "I know, France. I...lied so you wouldn't ask questions. I went to visit Soviet."

France's angry expression softened. "I'm shocked that you even felt the need to lie to me. You hate lying."

I nodded. "I know, France."

"Next time tell me the truth. Now who is this small country? I've never seen her before."

Hawaii got off the swing and stepped up beside me. I pat her head. "France, Hawaii isn't a country."

France looked confused now. She looked at Hawaii. "So is she a new colony? A new territory? I want to see her islands, Britain."

I chuckled. "Oh no, France. I don't own her."

France had a look of pure confusion. Hawaii piped up. "Aloha! (Hello!) You must be Britain's wife! My name is Hawaii, I used to be an independent kingdom! Britain and I had a close friendship when I was a kingdom. I am now a US state!"

France raised a brow. "State?"

"Yes, state! I have 49 other siblings, 50 if you count DC. We're states in America!"

"So you are part of America?"

"Yup!"

"Who are your siblings?"

"Well there's Alabama, Alaska, Arizona-"

"Hawaii!"

Hawaii, France, and I looked in the direction of the voice. A child was walking towards us, most certainly taller than Hawaii. Their flag was blue and in the upper left corner there was a five-pointed silver star between two sprays of sagebrush crossed to form a half wreath. Across the top of the wreath was a golden scroll with words in black letters, "Battle Born." The word "Nevada" was beneath the star in gold letters.

Hawaii waved to the kid. She glanced at us and said, "That's one of my brothers, Nevada!"

"Hawaii, what are you doing?" Nevada asked Hawaii when he reached her. "America says we can't mingle with countries!"

"But these aren't just any countries, Nevada," Hawaii pointed at me. "This is Britain, a close friend of mine from when I was an independent kingdom."

Nevada looked at me. He shrugged. "Well, any friend of Hawaii is a friend of mine."

He stuck his hand out. "Handshake?"

I shook his hand. "Hello Nevada."

"Hello Britain." Nevada looked at France. "And who is this?"

"My wife, France."

France waved. "Salut. (Hi.)"

Nevada looked confused. "I'll just assume you said hi." He turned to Hawaii. "Come on, Aloha state. We need to get back or DC will kill us."

Hawaii nodded and Nevada picked her up. She waved to me and France. "Goodbye Britain and France!"

"Bye Hawaii!"

Nevada and Hawaii disappeared behind a tree. France turned to me. "So America has...children?"

"I guess you could say that. Let's ask him about it."

France nodded and we started walking to where I left my car.

Time skip

I pulled into the driveway of our house. France and I got out and walked to the front door. I unlocked and opened it and held it open for France. She walked inside and I closed and locked the door. Canada was sat on the arm chair reading a book. "Hey Mom, hey Dad." He said to us.

"Hello Canada, do you know where America is?"

Canada nodded. "He's in his room."

France and I walked up the stairs and to America's room. I knocked on the door. "Come in!" I heard America call.

I opened the door and saw America sitting at his desk on his computer. He seemed to be browsing Facebook. He turned to us and smiled. "What do ya need?"

"America, why haven't you told us about your children?" France got straight to the point.

America froze. I pretty sure his eyes widened beneath his shades. He quickly turned back to his computer. "I don't know what you're talking about."

"America, we talked to Hawaii and Nevada today. Hawaii even told us you have...48 other kids. 49 if we count your capital."

"I fricking told them to not show themselves to countries..." America muttered. He sighed, turning his chair to look at us. "Yes, I have states. And I see them as my children."

France and I shared a glance. "Why didn't you tell us about them sooner?" I asked. "I already know Hawaii, and meeting Nevada-"

"Wait, you already knew Hawaii? Has she been talking to you before today?!" America clenched his fist.

"No no, remember when Hawaii was an independent kingdom?"

"Uh...yeah."

"We had close relations. We were very good friends back then. One day she scheduled a meeting with me, just to talk. But she never showed. I haven't seen her until today."

"...When was this meeting?"

"1898."

America was silent for a few moments. "Dad...she didn't show up to the meeting because I annexed her.."

I went silent. I looked at the ground. "That makes sense now..."

France set a hand on my shoulder. I looked up at America and smiled. "I'm not that bothered by it. She seems happy with her life."

America sighed in relief. "If only you were there when I annexed her, she was fuming!"

We shared a laugh. "Ame, can you introduce us to your states later?"

"Sure."

"Ameriquè, why did you keep them a secret, anyway? And why can't they talk to countries?"

"I know countries that will use them against me if they ever found out. Hurt them, torture them. I'm just worried for their safety and don't really trust that they'll be safe when with countries. They're small and overestimate how strong they really are. I guess the only state I can actually trust can defend himself against countries is Texas, but he has limits, too."

"Then it's a good thing Hawaii and Nevada ran into us, isn't it?"

America chuckled. "Yeah, it is."

"Where do they live, Ame?"

"In a big mansion. I only really go there during week long breaks from school. I'm planning on moving in during the summer or when I graduate. Defintely moving there, though."

"Doesn't every country own a mansion somewhere?" I asked.

"Every country but North and South Korea, yes."

I gently pushed France to the door. "Well thank you for telling us, Ame. We can't wait to meet them."

"No problem. But wait."

We stopped. "Yeah?" "Oui? (Yes?)"

"Promise that you won't tell anyone? Canada only knows because he stumbled upon them by accident, but don't tell anyone else, not even Kiwi or Aussie."

"We won't tell anyone else, we promise. Right France?"

"Oui, we promise."

We stepped out of the room. I bumped into something and looked down. Australia and New Zealand looked up at us. "Before you say anything, we heard everything you said." New Zealand said quickly. Australia facepalmed.

France grabbed both their arms. "Ame, Australia and New Zealand were eavesdropping!" I called to him.

"Oh, come on!"