Glorified Snickers Bar

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Farthest North

Chapter 22 - Country-Hood

Word count: 1201

     The crowd cheered, and a toast was given to the newest Country. Alaska's flag didn't change, in honor of it's creator, and all hoped that she herself wouldn't change either. Those who attended the festivities congratulated her, giving her presents, small and large, even America as he stuck out his hand for her to shake, 49 States permanently etched onto his face. Despite the sudden drain from his systems and the lingering headache from after it was finalized for Alaska to become a Country, he kept a smile on his face.

         "You're highness," he curtsied, making the woman giggle, "today I give you the finest of gifts!"

         "You can't top China's shipment of tea, silk and porcelain!" Egypt hollered over the crowd.

         "Can I not enjoy a small moment of bravado?" America huffed, glaring at the Country.

         "Your life is a moment of bravado," Cuba rolled her eyes, "I think you can deal."

         "Now, now," Alaska shook her head, pointed teeth hidden by her red scarf, blisters and burns covered by a long sleeve and pants, "As true as that is-"

         "Hey!" America whipped around, hands on his hips as he took offense.

         "-Everyone is getting their moment. Let's not forget that this isn't only about me, but you all as well. The finalization of our future work together, thanks to U.N.," the man nodded toward her, having taken to the sidelines, "I can provide military aid, medical support and financial support to those who truly need it, and I know that you all are willing to help  me in return. I can't wait to work with you."

The crowd applauded to her small speech, the blue and gold Country waving for America to continue his "moment of bravado". He cleared his throat, dug in his jeans pocket for an Aspirin, swallowing it before continuing.

         "Today I give you the finest of gifts: Twelve Million U.S. dollars, as a cushion for your developing economy; three shipments of basic necessities, such as food, bottled water, clothes maybe a candy or two," the crowd chuckled, "And my blessing as your step father, for your wondrous life ahead, as a Country, and not my State."

Alaska cried as she wrapped her arms around the shorter man, lifting him up so she wasn't hurting her back. The crowd clapped, a few 'aws' coming from the onlookers as they found the exchange adorable. She set him down when he started to wheeze from lack of oxygen, making them both laugh.

     As festivities continued, America grew worried. Most everyone had no clue of Alaska's current summer time state, and it may be a major factor in most deals, Israel was for sure going to be wary, Finland and Sweden perhaps... U.K. was never too keen to mention Third Reich, and to have a trade partner so close to having the same mentality when angered? Oh dear... He knew Alaska intended to inform her newly made friends during the party, but he was unsure if now was the right time.

         "Maybe after you've been in business for a little while," he suggested, pulling the taller woman off to the side, "If you tell them now some might retract their deals entirely, without a second thought."

         "I've hidden this side of me long enough," she shook her head, just as America feared she would, "It's time to spite my father and be more than he ever thought I could be, even with this... handicap."

The American frowned. A hindrance? Yeah, sure, but Alaska's condition couldn't be a handicap, could it?

     When the room finally settled down, Alaska brought their attention to the front of the meeting hall, where a projector and white screen waited after being hastily set up. She sighed in frustration as Germany fiddled with the wiring, only to be pushed aside by China as he mumbled something about sticking with the sciences to Germany. When the projector was up and running, it showed a fanciful picture of one of Alaska's vast fields filled with Fireweed.

         "I'd like to introduce you all to something I like to call, 'Death by Powerpoint'," she earned a laugh from the crowd, "It's not too long, I assure, but it's important. In it I have my... well I'll just show you-"

She quickly brushed the mouse pad on the laptop beside the projector, the slide moving to multiple bullet points.

         "These are my goals for the first year. I hope to affirm my trade deals with you all, military aides, and peace treaties for those of you who would prefer me your territory -ahem- Russia."

         "Hey," the Country took offence, but those who knew it a simple jest chuckled at the poke of fun between siblings.

Alaska moved to the next slide.

         "Here you see my readied military," she explained, pointing with a red laser light, "these are those ready to fly or sail out at any time to aid those who I have offered my help to. If this is unsatisfactory, I can discuss further offers."

The crowd was silent, so she assumed she could move on.

         "I explained my exports already, but for those who would like to reconsider or expand your demands, you may write down whatever you would like from this list, if there is something not listed, you will have to speak with me at an appointed time."

There was some frantic writing or tapping of phones, so she paused on this list for a moment before continuing.

         "One last thing..." she paused, bringing up her scarf as she nervously fiddled with it's tattered and worn out ends. The next slide shown as ready to present, but her finger hesitated, "I... I realize all of your perception of me is of good report, it's why you all voted me in as a Country, that and my resources were profitable to you, and at a fair price," she turned to her waiting audience, who all stared at her with attentive expressions, "but I... I must admit, I did not give you one specific piece of information."

China stood by her side, looking up to give her a reassuring glance before looking to the audience, daring them to go back on their word already given. America stood as well, placing  a hand on her back, soon joined by Germany, Japan, Canada and Russia.

     Alaska made one final tug at her scarf, the linen which had hidden her menacing features for years, now brought into the light for all to see. The room filled with a synchronized gasp.

         "Fires are what cause it," she explained, a shy smile an attempt to be less threatening-like, "It's only for the summer months, unfortunately it came early this year, so I'm a bit more irritable than usual, I'm afraid..."

         "Why didn't you tell us earlier?" Egypt questioned accusingly, "No wonder your father sold you like some palace slave."

America was about to retaliate with a come-back, but Alaska stopped him as she gave a hideously sweet, pointed smile.

         "My dear Egypt," she giggled, making his colored face pale at her equally as sweet tone, "You couldn't afford this slave even if you sold all the golden idols in your land."

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Farthest North

Chapter 21 - Here to Help

Word count: 1115

         "Wake up!"

America sat up with a gasp, the first thing he checked for was the bullet wound in his stomach, or was it his head? No he'd be dead... his chest maybe? Not a hole in his shirt, not a scar on his body, except for those already there for years now. He looked to the people around him. Canada, Israel, Brazil... 

Where were they?

Where was Alaska?

         "Give him room you idiots."

To answer his second question, the blue and gold starred woman made her appearance as Countries were moved out of the way. A large circle was opened around America and he stared at his State. She no longer wore her war regalia, but the uniform was unmistakably one of Nazi's, though the sleeves were torn off, and pants rolled up into capris. She smiled sweetly, despite the burns and blisters on her skin. Her sharp teeth were still foreboding...

         "The... gunshot-"

         "Right into Third's back," she shrugged, "Unfortunately he got away before he could bleed out. Still had his ring." 

         "And you fainted y-ike some pansy," Russia laughed, only to be easily tripped by Alaska's long leg. He grumbled at his older sister, but she ignored him, helping the downed American up onto his feet again. His uniform faded away, back to his NATO T-shirt and jeans. The woman laughed when he looked for his sunglasses, only to find them in her hand... and to high for him to reach.

         "Not fair!" He jumped to grab them, but only received a cruel laugh in return, from her and everyone else, "Give them back!"

         "Alright," she chuckled, "shorty."

         "Hey that's my bit!" Russia declared only for his Ushanka to be torn off his head, and it was his turn to grumble and jump, though he was taller than America. The group laughed, and when Alaska finally gave him back his head covering, she finally looked around, seeing all of whom would be her allies as a Country.

        "You all... came for me?"

         "Of course," China came up behind her, pressing a cool towel soaked in ointment to her blisters, having disappeared for a time to attain the soothing piece, "You're our ally, and friend."

         "Friendly rival," Saudi Arabia corrected, having joined the ride since they shared at least one thing in common.

Alaska thanked the Country for his kindness and medical expertise on such short notice, taking the cloth into her own hand, though China's lingered as he gave her a soft smile, to which she returned.

         "Alaska..."

The group looked to America, his usual cocky air gone, replaced with a solemn and regretful expression. He shuffled a foot, fighting with his pride as a Country.

         "Look... I... What I said- um. I meant it. You would serve the world better, if you were a Country, and I'm okay with that."

There was a long pause as Alaska looked to her Country with a surprised stare, only for it soften into a knowing one.

         "No you're not."

         "Can I not have a moment where I don't look like the bad guy here?"

The group laughed, Japan, Germany, Canada and Russia closest to the frustrated man, though it quickly dissipated as he was embraced by his State, soon to be ally, her boisterous laughter filling his ears, and foreign heat suddenly making him sweat as she put him down before burning him.

         "Wait... where's Australia?"

   Said Country sighed... U.K. wasn't answering his calls anymore. America must have forgotten his phone. Canada's might be dead... New Zealand is probably ignoring his, and these blasted fires just wouldn't stop. He groaned as another wave of heat hit him, another home burned, another loved one of a family lost. He chuckled. Snakes, Scorpions, Spiders. He's faced everything that could have killed him, been bitten multiple times by dangerous creatures, and here he was, being beaten by a fire. It's not even a living being yet it's swallowing him whole. 

         "Down und'a alright," he huffed, "Six feet und'a."

         "Oh please," the bed ridden Country looked up wearily, "Try going through your current circumstance every summer."

         "Alaska?" he stared at her, dumbfounded as she sat at the edge of his bed, "Blimey I thought they failed!"

         "Why, because you weren't there with your boomerang?" she laughed.

         "Very funny," he poked her, only to hiss at the movement of his own arm, then he noticed the blistering and burns all over her own, up her neck, and creeping onto her face. They both breathed the smoke of their land, black puffs that made the two of them beg for winter within their minds, not that Australia could beg for much with his climate. He looked to his finger, finding blood and puss at it's tip from his playful jab, "How... d'you do it?"

The State hadn't even flinched when he poked her.

     She smiled softly, only to get up, retrieving extra bandages from a cupboard left by a nurse. She unrolled the gauze of his arm, making him hiss, but she never stopped the action, simply unrolling it as fast she could, removing dried puss and blood up to his shoulder. She then began to wrap it up again with the new bandaging, expertly, having done it multiple times before, all on her own. Still Australia hissed, the burning sensation never leaving, stinging and prickling all up his arm and into the nerves of his neck. Alaska repeated this action to the other arm, earning the same response no matter how much Australia didn't want to show the pain.

         "Years of experience," she told him after securing the end of the cloth strip down, "and summers of pure terror."

Australia wiped his tears on the edge of the hospital blanket. Alaska should be in the same predicament, here in the human world, on a hospital bed being taken care of. Instead she was walking around in shorts and a T-shirt, a bright red scarf around her neck to hide those sharp pearly whites. She held no shame in her blisters and burns that went from her neck to her feet, instead she wore them proudly.

         "I'm sending troops, Firefighters, well trained and well informed of your current situation."

         "Wait, what about you?" He panicked, not wanting to hinder her efforts to extinguish her own fires.

         "My people know what to do," she told him with a shrug, "Fire safety and training is part of the curriculum of my schools (!)."

         "You're somth'n else," Australia shook his head, earning a short twitter of a laugh in return.

         "Thanks, I think."

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(!) - Fire safety is taught in all schools, fire training is taught in a select few such as Hutchison High School.

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Farthest North

Chapter 20 - Betrayal

Word count: 735 I apologize for the short chapter.

         "What kind of escape is teaching her how to attack people?!" America screeched.

Third Reich merely laughed, his current sidekick standing as stone, expression blank, North Star still ablaze. Every time she breathed smoke came from her mouth, and new blisters appeared along her arms. The other was covered by the heavy cloak of fur, looking agonizingly hot, yet Alaska didn't seem fazed by any of it. She stood there, stoic and unmoving.

         "Vhat do you do vhen you're angry?" the genocidal man replied, "You lash out! It's perfectly normal, and her deep rooted hate tortured her for years!"

         "Hate for vhat?" Russia huffed, "our fadher? Yeah, I get dhat, but everyone else?"

Third huffed, tired of their lack of understanding. No one seemed to understand him, except Alaska to an extent, but even that didn't last when he started the war. But now? He was very close to having her full loyalty.

         "Everyone else..." Alaska began, "Vould have done dhe same..."

         "And zhere you have it!" Third let out a boisterous, maniacal laugh, a high pitched squeal that made everyone cringe, "Zhe only vun who can be called fazher in her eyes, is me! Und* vhat does a loyal daughter do?" he placed a gentle, cold hand on her exposed shoulder, making Alaska look to him with a complacent gaze.

         "Alaska," her step father called gently, feeling a heavy weight descend on his shoulders as she looked to him, and the invisible blade tip deepened in his skull as her blank stare turned to one of hate.

         "Vhat vould you have done once I became useless?" she questioned, and America stilled, barely being held up by Russia and Japan.

         "Baby girl," he pleaded for the pain to stop, "You never, were useless in my eyes."

         "Lies!" she declared, "Sew-vards folly, dhat vas my title! I had nodhing you vanted but y-and, dhat vas dhe initial dhought," tears evaporated once again from her cheeks, never to meet the ground, as blisters appeared on her face, "Dhen 1902, aside from some meat ah-nd furs, oil. Suddenly gold, precious metals, but did you care about dhe vun who you took it from?"

         "NO!" 

Everyone stared at America's outburst as tears filled his eyes, glasses having been thrown to the ground in his anger at himself.

         "I didn't care!" His tears fell to the ground, watching as Alaska took a step back, surprised at this sudden show of pure regret, and love, "I didn't care even after World War Two! You were the only State to see battle, the only State to feel your people be slaughtered and I didn't care! I gave so little to help you. You had the chance to leave me, yet you didn't. Even after ignoring you for so long then. I can imagine Third told you of being able to take revenge on your father, but you refused even that."

U.K. smiled softly, proud that his son was able to admit this. He for sure, could never, even now.

         "I don't... You..." he sighed, wiped stray tears from his cheeks, and picked up his glasses, though he didn't place them back on his face. He looked back up at the woman, seeing her unsure. Unsure what to think or unsure what to do, he didn't know. Taking one last deep breath, America said what pained him, "I don't deserve you, as my State. You- You deserve better."

     A tense silence. Third looked to his protégé. What a speech that was, but was it enough to sway her from their plan? Said female was silent, not a finger did she lift in response, and it worried everyone. Some response was better than no response, and she seemed to want to make it worse as Alaska brought a shaking finger to her blackened lips, expression morphing from one of uncertainty, to a twisted smile, a practiced grace to her change in attitude, white eyes holding a sick joy to them. Her laugh made the skin of every Country within hearing range prickle, so joyful, so twisted... even Third couldn't help but become a little worried as her head began to rest on his shoulder. He felt the heat from her burning North Star as it singed his hat.

         "Vhat a show, dear America," she twittered, "Спасибо**, for your patronage."

     A shot rang out, and America fell.

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* Und - and (German)

** Спасибо - Thank you (Russian)

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Farthest North

Chapter 19 - Brainwashed

Word count: 1345

         "You're insane!"

Alaska accused with a pointed finger, staring at her reflection. 

         "How many times could you have escaped? Look at yourself," she scratched her exposed arms after folding up the sleeves. No blood hit the metal sink, but her father made her swear not to use self harm as a means to escape her inner battles. She may not have had the best father, but he would care from time to time... "He suspects nodhing, yet here you are, enjoying yourself? It is despicable. You're attacking friends! He vants dhis!"

What looked like a rash on her arm grew as she rubbed her skin, not raw, but close. She stopped herself before she broke her promise to her father, instead holding tightly to the edges of the metal sink.

         "Stay strong..." she told herself, "Dhe oders vill come, dhey vill... dhey vill, trust me! Dhey vill come."

         "Mein schatz*?" Third called from the outer hallway of the Nazi bunker, "My dear you've been holed up in zhat rest room for half hour by now... I am vorried."

Worried? A heartless man was worried? Highly unlikely, but the World War 2 super power was... His little girl wasn't even speaking to him, though he had passed by multiple times just to see how she was doing. A hand went to a bandaged arm, multiple burned swastikas forever embedded on his skin. He added one more that morning, for not thinking of placing his ring back in Germany's pocket, or at least on his dresser top, as if his son had forgotten it. But no, it was in his own pocket. He couldn't afford for her start breaking down now, they were so close! He couldn't afford another disappointment.

         "Alaska, please," he rested a hand on the door, "come out..."

With a heavy sigh, Third Reich hugged the woman before she could protest once the door was opened. He looked to the metal sink, seeing dents where her grip became too tight. Once he let go, the genocidal man placed a gentle hand on her cheek, Alaska's skin burning, as hot as the Auschwitz fires.

         "Your North star is glowing my dear," he frowned, "Vhat does zhat mean?"

Alaska was silent as her breath came out like smoke, a dark comparison to the condensation of winter puffs.

         "It means Juneau is burning."

~.~

     America ordered for troops to carry as much water as they could. Canada ensured them safe passage of his borders so they didn't have to take the long way to Alaska's capital. Juneau was going up in flames, and while no calls had come, America was going to help. He only knew of it because the fires had started to spread into Canada's land. But as quickly as the fire came, it was gone. The Navy and Airforce came back saying it was taken care of long before they had arrived. America seemed to have forgotten that Alaska had her own military now, and fully capable citizens. 

         "This kid's insane!" Australia declared, a coughing fit coming soon after, "Crickey, not even I can handle a few fires. My people are going nuts!"

         "She's gone through this before Aussie," Canada told him, "she knows what to expect, you had no clue this was coming."

The Country nodded, sighing. 

         "South America isn't going to let me live this down, I can tell 'ya that!"

Australia being both a Country and a Continent, had the ability to travel to another hidden world. He was the odd one out, of course, since most hate conversing with their younger separations of their land. They found them intolerable.

         "Why not ask South Pole for help?" America walked through the door, his military uniform still on.

         "First:" he let out another coughing fit, smoke coming up in plumes, just like Alaska, "It's Antarctica, he doesn't like that nickname. Second: He's melting, dude, I can't do that to him."

     The two Countries talked with their younger brother, until China called the eldest about Alaska's whereabouts. They found her. So with a regretful 'goodbye', America left, Canada close behind as Australia gave them his best wishes in finding the grown State, and bringing down the Nazi menace once and for all. A nurse came in with a fresh jug of ice cold water, and despite his current state, Australia couldn't help but flirt just a little. He might be burning, and in pain, but that didn't stop him from having joy in his life. The nurse left with a giggle, leaving him alone... so he called U.K.

         "What have you found?"

     The father sighed, looking between the Countries who had shown. Ukraine wasn't too excited about this entire fiasco about to go down, neither was Belarus, but they were determined to save their older sister. Russia and Germany were determined to get in the Nazi bunker found deep within what used to be East Germany, the boy, now man, who embodied it's unification was furious that his twin sister was used like that. Who would expect a Nazi bunker where USSR used to reign? It enraged him, and brought faint memories of her murder after the fall of the Berlin Wall. 

         "A Nazi bunker, very well hidden, several feet under ground," U.K. finally answered, "Bloody sneaky, Third is," he admitted, "but America says he'll have it opened within th-"

A loud creak interrupted the conversation, though short, and everyone peered from their hiding places to see what was going on. 

         "Covards," Third huffed, "How long vill you hide like Jews hide zhier money bags?"

         "Why I oughta-!"

America held back Israel, who made a drastic change into his war gear. Germany had to hold him back too, reminding the Country that Third Reich failed.

         "Give us back Alaska!" America ordered, the circle of Countries closing in to surround him, but the dead man just laughed.

         "Or vhat? You'll nuke me? Vait, nein, zhat's zhe short vun."

         "Dhey're all short Dhird."

The surrounding Countries looked to the still open door, eyes going wide, jaws dropping, several gasps resounding as they saw the grown State reveal her war clad self. She wore no hat, the fire that enveloped her North Star would have burned it, her military blouse held a cape of pure mountain goat fur on one side, while the other was short sleeved, blisters plainly shown yet they didn't seem to bother her as they oozed a slick, clear substance. White pants came down to her ankles, light dress shoes as black as fresh ashes. This was what she looked like after declaring war. This was what the others knew to fear... her sharpened teeth gleamed in the sunlight, a sudden unbearable heat to those who watched, even as shivers ran down their backs when this she-devil looked their way.

         "Al-vays stuck in dhe shadows of dhe great vuns." she chuckled lowly.

         "Alaska, please," America dared come closer, "He's brainwashed you. He'll invade just as he did everyone else he made a treaty with!"

         "A variable I have contemplated," she nodded soberly, expression now blank.

         "Facts don't lie," Germany stood next to his friend, joined by Russia and Japan, "My fazher cannot be trusted."

         "Ah, but neizher can you!" Third Reich cheered, "Russia, your fazher abused her. You vould have done zhe same! America, you abandoned her! Left her to fend for herself, abused her resources! Canada you're nozhing but a selfish dummkopf**, vanting nozhing but more land and resources. But vait, vhat am I missing? Oh, ya***, of course! Alaska is prime military support for every single vun of you!"

Everyone flinched... 

They all realized it. Alaska was perfect for any military. Land, resources, anyone with military power there had power over the U.S., Canada, even Russia. They were all selfish, everyone knew it, but not this time.

         "And vhat have you done Dhird?" Russia huffed, "Besides kidnap her and manipulate her to do your bidding?"

     The Nazi menace smiled wider.

         "I gave her an escape."

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* Mein Schatz - My treasure (German)

** Dummkopf - imbecile, or idiot (German)

*** Ya - yes (German)

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Farthest North

Chapter 18 - Weg

Word count: 1073

         "So... Alaska, huh?"

Much to China's chagrin, America was the only one not done with his search, checking every possible hiding place for the woman, meaning every tree, every large boulder, cave, what-have-you. So he was stuck with this harassment.

         "I fail to understand your pointing out of your currently missing State," he told him curtly, jumping up into a tree, sword unsheathed as he looked above the fauna, spying birds, a single snake, but no Alaska. He caught the snake before it attacked him, and he threw it to the side nonchalantly. Unfortunately it landed near America, whether this was on purpose or no, only China knew.

         "I don't think you do," America said, huffing after jumping into another tree to escape the living noodle, "fail to understand, I mean."

He slid down once he decided Alaska wasn't in that tree, and that the snake had gone away.

         "A fanciful kimono? Taking time just to say 'hi' from your busy schedule? And she's not even your State!"

         "Said the one who didn't even do that during this entire ordeal?"

The bomb hit, and America cringed. Right...

        "Point taken... but being the first to show up to find her? And you never take time out of your training schedule."

He must have forgotten about China's bow to the taller State, of which the red and gold Country was glad, but America still had a hit on him.

     Jumping to the next tree, China grunted as he failed to grab hold of the next branch after the American's next words.

         "It's almost like you've grown to love her."

He hauled himself up, whipping around to glare at the Country, who couldn't help but laugh hysterically.

         "I knew it-I knew it-I knew it~" He sang, only to find a katana shoved in his face, and shut up.

         "Your chastisement is uncalled for and inappropriate in Alaska's current absence," the man stated flatly, "I suggest you be more serious for once, for all we know she cou-" 

China stopped, eyes widening as he lowered his Katana.

         "Uh... Chai tea?" America waved a hand in front of the man's face, who caught it on its second wave.

         "Of course..." he whispered, "Come," the man made a mad dash back through the woods, "There is no time to lose!"

         "What the heck man! Slow down!" America started after him, finally tugging China to a stop, much to his disliking, "You're making no sense, did that branch hit you in the head?"

The red and gold country glowered at the man, making America take a step back.

         "There are things you cannot understand. It is Alaska's choice whether she shares this information or not, not mine, so it stays with me. No matter what you may offer or threaten, what she told me will be buried in my grave."

He turned to continue, but America took hold of his shoulder before the man could get too far.

         "I already know, China." he told him solemnly, "and I made a huge mistake. Why do you think I'm so frantic to find her?"

China's gaze softened, and he gave a small nod to his ally.

         "Now, what is it you know that I don't?"

The man shook his head with a sigh.

         "All I can say is that she's not in our world. He doesn't have the tools he needs to manipulate her here..."

America thought a moment, before his eyes became saucers, and his jaw went slack.

         "No... she wouldn't. Alaska knows better! She's got better morals than me!"

         "That's not saying much," China huffed, "Anyone can have better morals than you. But he comforted her before the war started, taught her things that ebbed the side effects of the constant fires during the summer months," the man sighed, "If she's not here, she's with Third Reich, either by her own will, or kidnapped. I hope the latter of the two."

         "Well then let's get him!" America spat, bringing out his ring, only for his hand to be caught once again.

         "You don't think he's thought of that?" China plucked the ring from America's grasp, "Think for once. If you were a World War 2 super power, what would you do?"

America growled, but thought nonetheless. What would he do? He began to pace... but his mind was elsewhere. What would Alaska be doing? Planning an attack? Would her people be swayed so easily? She might not be as big as the United States as a whole, including Hawaii, but she knew the battle field, how to manipulate it... one of her freezing winters could cripple an entire platoon. USSR's daughter indeed...

         "Wait," America stopped his pacing, "I was a World War 2 super power..."

     His expression went from one of revelation, to one of pure determination as he turned on his heel, back to where the others were currently trying to discuss where Alaska had gone off to. His clothes warped from his usual T-shirt and jeans to an Army uniform, glasses the only constant as he stomped his way through. China had to jog to catch up, startled by the sudden change in the Country. Albeit relieved that America had become a bit more serious about the situation, the other Country was a bit concerned by how drastic the change was.

     When they made it to the others, everyone made a path as America came through, worried as they noticed his change in attire and attitude. Who did he declare war on? Whispers went around, some looking to Russia, others to Iran and Iraq, a few pointed their attention to Mexico.

         "Someone's gonna get it..." Japan jumped up and down, the only one excited about this...

The crowd's mumbles lessened, their attention on America as he stood at the center of this crowd. Flying his gaze across them all, everyone shivered at his silence. U.K. stepped up, the only one brave enough to ask his son who exactly brought this aggression forward in him.

         "Son," he started, "Who is it you accuse?"

America whipped his pointed attention to Germany, who froze, and everyone else gasped as more whispers circulated.

         "Where is your father's ring?" America questioned, glaring behind his glasses, and while his eye's couldn't be seen, the sudden burning sensation in Germany's head could definitely be felt.

         "It's..." he felt his shirt pocket, finding nothing, and his face showed nothing but panic, "Weg*..."

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* Weg - Gone (German)

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Farthest North

Chapter 17 - Pick and Choose

Word count: 1061

         "Papa?" The young Alaska whispered, peering from behind her father toward the strange man with white, red and blue markings on his face. What was going on? Was this a new ally? 

The taller personification bent down, bringing her out from her hiding place as he pat her head, making sure her coat was on correctly, hiding the scars. He motioned with a finger to tell her to smile, and smiled back once he noted she had no showing pointed teeth. This would make the deal much easier. 

     Money was exchanged, and young Alaska watched as her father left her land, making no move to call for him, beg him to come back. She held no questions as to why he sold her, it was bound to happen. She was useless to him, her resources nearly depleted, her people ravaged and she... wasn't able to take much more abuse. A painful reminder that she was still healing came as this newcomer placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, and she flinched away. America frowned, his bowler hat and trench coat firmly pressed to his body as a gust of wind flew by, making everyone but the territory flinch at its painful stab. Alaska noted that the Country was still shivering, even under his coat, so did what her father said not to, and took off the far to big parka, walking around and placing it on his shoulders. The man smiled, nodding his thanks, until he saw the deep cuts and bruises, loosely bandaged, all over her now bare arms, up her neck, around her fingers, and probably down her tiny stick legs, covered in some sort of hide, as most of her native people wore.

     Reaching out a hand, the girl winced, stepping back, but America patiently waited, extended hand showing no threat. She neared, slowly, until he could turn her around, exposing multiple deep wounds as he further loosened the bandaging on her neck, some still having shards of glass embedded in her skin, covered over as her body repaired itself.

         "What did he do to you?" he turned her around again, seeing tears fall from her cute little face. Was it fear? Pain?

The Country could only bring her closer in a gentle hug as he whispered.

         "Never, shall you feel this abuse again..."

And her flag changed.

~.~

         "Vonderful!" Third applauded, reaching out to take the map of France, but Alaska hit his hands away before he could touch it.

         "How many times must I tell you?" she growled, teeth bared, "I make it, I keep it. If you so badly want your own, do it yourself."

         "Is zhat any vay to speak to your fah-ter?" He pointed an accusing finger, but this only made her growl.

         "You are no fadher of mine."

To this the Nazi menace only smiled sweetly, rounding the table to look at the woman straight on. Leaning against its edge, he spoke once more, as a father would his child.

         "Sveet thing, I am zhe closest to a fah-ter you vill ever have. Who helped you in your times of frustration? Who assured you vere not a monster, a freak of nature! Vhat country made sure you vere not alone on hot nights filled wizh zhe screams of your people caught be-tvween zhe fires?"

Alaska shook, refusing to listen, but she couldn't help but hear him. He was the only one who ever showed compassion when most would have run away, sold her off, made her someone else's problem. Third helped her, Third let her be herself... with no price asked, nothing in return. He cared for her in those few measly years... he made an impact she'd never forget.

     A cold hand placed itself on her shoulder, the fabric of the uniform raging hot in comparison. Third Reich offered a cold glass of water, to which the State took eagerly, downing the glass as another heat wave ravaged her land, and she fell to her knees, reigning in a sob as she felt the death of another one of her citizens. 

         "I... need to help them..." she tried to get up, but was stopped by the red, white and black colored menace, who only gave her a worried expression.

         "You vill only hurt yourself further, schatz*," he advised, "you are no good to zhem dead."

         "Did you tell zhat to Hitler?" she cackled, and Third prickled. Never has she mocked him in such a way, then again she has only seen him once since the beginning of World War 2. He couldn't decide if he was proud that she gave in to such a torturous joke, or if he was enraged. The man decided to go for the first of two.

         "You're accent is getting stronger," he chuckled, "I vill make a German of you yet."

         "Good luck," she huffed, smoke escaping her mouth as she looked up to the failed Country, a dangerous shimmer in her eye as she smiled with menacing teeth, "I am Russian at heart, Dhird Reich. Ah-nd ve are known for being stubborn."

     With this planted in his mind, Alaska stood, rolling the map into a canister, before placing it in what was a wine wall, long emptied. 20 more filled the small holes in the wall. The blue and gold woman stood back, admiring her work. 20 of 195 countries demolished... and all this planning was done in a mere 4 hours. Nothing held her back with Third Reich. No constant nagging in her mind that these were her friends, most of them. Out of sight, out of mind, and Third knew that. He knew her better than even USSR, and he was so proud of himself, but it only showed in a twisted smirk. With Alaska as his ally, he could rule the world! If he were to die, she could take over, follow in his foot steps. If only this woman were his daughter, if only he had offered to buy her off from America before he started the war, but he was to eager in this, and wanted her to betray the American. That would have hurt much worse. He wanted his way... and he would get it, but this would come at a cost, but for her, he would gladly excuse his old habits. He couldn't betray his treasure.

--------------------

*Schatz - Treasure (German)

The above picture was drawn by me, using colored pencil and ink pen. And yes I do realize America’s flag is incorrectly drawn, this was an old fan art I made for the story but I’m very proud of the shading.

[glorifiedsnickersbar]

Farthest North

Chapter 16 - Familiar Embraces

Word count: 1016

     A horrid burning. A muffled cry. A bright light, and Alaska was stuck beneath it. She squinted, holding a hand up to block the insanely bright object's intrusive light. She groaned as a wave of pain ran through her body, another heat wave, another fire. The pain was suddenly eased as a cold towel was brought to her forehead, and she sighed in delight, smiling ever so slightly.

         "Canada should keep doors locked tighter."

Alaska shot up, wincing as the light hit her face, finding it to be the roof of a bunker bed, short and meant for cramming as many soldiers as possible. She gave another sigh as the enemy brought her close in a cold embrace, practically dead, only a faint heartbeat being any indication of life. This is what happens to a failed Country with a chance of living, whose ideals still live on in a people no longer his, albeit hidden and few.

         "Zhere-zhere," he wiped the evaporating sweat from her head, not caring that she could potentially give him third degree burns. He chuckled at the internal joke, caressing her head lovingly, as a father would his terrified child, "Only some montz," he promised.

     The State quickly recognized her current position, wrestling herself from his grasp and stumbling to the closed door, only to fall as another wave of burning pain hit her. She coughed up smoke, the burning in her throat unbearable, her eyes stung, skin prickled and lungs ached.

         "Where am I?" she asked hoarsely, not bothering to look at the frowning Third Reich.

         "Zhe last unknown Nazi bunker," he admitted, "I killed zhe architect responsible, as vell as zhe zhree generals who knew of it. The architect vas a Jew any-vay," he spat on the ground, disgusted, "Zhe ozher zhree vere insignificant."

Alaska growled, peering at the man with a blood thirsty gaze, and he merely smiled, as if seeing an old friend.

         "Come now schatz*," he cooed, not daring to inch closer, "I have a surprise for you, but you cannot receive it vith an attitude like zhat."

And like a child being scolded, Alaska stopped her menacing display, allowing the failed Country to step close enough to help her up. 

     He opened the door with ease, helping the woman to the nearest bathroom, where she found clothes waiting for her. Alaska realized she was still in her swimsuit, limping in to inspect the clothing given, she sighed, finding the old uniform cleaned and sewn together. She knew she had no other options... and Third had obviously spent the money, perhaps his own time, to make something her size... Alaska quickly shook her head, despite the increased pain. There will be no sympathizing with a monster. He killed so many, and he paid the price. Still she couldn't go around in a swimsuit the entire time. One piece or not, she wanted to be safe more than sorry.

     Third Reich, better known as Nazi Germany, clapped his hands together once Alaska stepped out of the bathroom, adoring her well fit uniform. She fixed the collar, choking on it as she gave out labored breaths.

         "Goodness, you don't 'ave to kill yourself for a stupid collar," he told her, unbuttoning the blouse like a father would a child's coat, "Sveet thing," he sighed, placing a cold hand on her burning cheek, "You have hidden for far to long."

~.~

         "How do you lose someone that tall and with pointy teeth?" 

Japan hissed, glaring at Canada who had scoured his entire log mansion in order to find Alaska, but to no avail.

         "Don't ask me!" he seethed, "Ask Germany he's the one with experience!"

There was a long pause as Canada slowly realized what he said. He face-palmed, apologizing, receiving a curt 'it's fine' from the Country. 

         "Maybe America took her off to apologize," Russia reasoned.

         "America, apologizing?" Japan put a hand to her extended hip, "Not likely."

         "For your information," said Country appeared from a wormhole, glaring at the female, "that likelihood is much higher than you think."

But when Canada relayed the news, America's hope for forgiveness dwindled even more than it already had after a long talk with his father. Alaska had simply... left? She was sound asleep when Canada left her to get groceries. Germany, Russia and Japan came afterward, simply curious about their friend's condition. The happenings of yesterday were quite a lot to take in, and they were all glad to find out the red, white and blue Country was tight-lipped about Alaska's second summer self when he spoke to U.K.

         "How long were you gone for?" America asked his brother, who counted on his fingers, then checked his watch.

         "Maybe, three hours. That's including the trip to town and back here."

         "She could have gone zhree hours in any direction!" Germany huffed, "Vhat can ve do? Split ourselves apart to cover more ground?"

         "Actually..." America grinned, and brought out his phone, scrolling through his contacts before grinning, and quickly tapping on the bright red and gold flag, "Everyone start calling Alaska's allies!"

     The group nodded, each determined as they began to scroll through their own phones, each having paid attention to Alaska's soon to be allies. At least they hoped.

         "Yo, China, Alaska's gone missing, can-"

Needless to say, almost everyone dropped what they were doing to help in this quest. China was first to appear, traditional Chinese combat gear readied, preferred weapon of the Samurai by his side as he held the hilt of the long, sharp blade.

         "You called during training," he glowered at the Country, "but for once, I am grateful."

America rolled his eyes, Japan squealed, Russia debated on going to get a bottle of hard liquor... Germany held firmly to his collar, and soon the large group set off to find the missing State, calling for any sign of her. A sound, a sight, a smell. And through it all, the loudest cries came from America as he frantically ran to find her. He had to right this wrong, and right it he will.

--------------------

* schatz - treasure (German)

[glorifiedsnickersbar]

Farthest North

Chapter 16 - Like Father Like Son

Word count: 1071

         "She'd be safe with me! It's a cruel world here!" America paced as his father, U.K. (also known as Britain) sipped on his cup of tea as he listened, in truth only half listening as he watched the empty fire place, "She'd be nothing without me! Another Territory being tossed around."

         "Indeed," United Kingdom nodded, taking another short sip.

         "I provide for her, I've taken care of her, though I admit I had my faults."

         "Indubitably."

        "But I care for her! She's one of my strongest States. My largest! Poor Texas... Did you know that her people always joke about that? If you cut Alaska's land in half Texas would be the third largest State!" He laughed, "It's genius! She's a genius, witty, prepared for anything-"

         "Even leaving you?" U.K. glanced at his eldest son, earning a harsh stare in return.

         "Not funny."

     The man sighed as he lifted himself off the chair, slipping past the boy and leaving his cup and saucer on a tray carefully placed on a small table. He had so much hope for him, yet here he was.

         "You know, you could always come back," he shrugged his suit clad shoulders, rubbing away spare dirt from his monocle, "I'd happily welcome you into my house again, as would your mother. The poor woman, she misses you dearly. Your States would vanish and you wouldn't have to worry about any of this happening."

America's mouth hung agape as he stared, slumped over, glasses falling from his face. He came here to get some advice and instead he's being invited to betray his trusting people and basically forget his Declaration of Independence?

         "Seriously? I came here to get some advice not an invitation to step back into a cycle of abuse!" The American seethed, "You can keep your hierarchy and hypocrisy to yourself, thanks, I choose my freedom."

The older man hummed as he poured another cup of tea, dropping pieces of sugar cubes with a ski-plip, ski-plip. Picking up a piece of paper, he read over it carefully, blowing on the hot beverage before taking his first sip. America was left in a deafening silence.

         " 'My complaints are simple,' " he read, the same words from the second meeting, " 'you all know them well, but I shall repeat them for formality's sake. Ever since Russian Empire, currently known as USSR, I have been stuck in a cycle of abuse, neglect, and mistreatment. My resources exploited, my political presence non-existent. No matter my cries, no matter my attempts, I am seen as unimportant as an individual, only important because of my tiring resources, gone unnoticed by my step father, America.' "

Said Country sat on a spare couch, decorated royal blue upholstery engulfing him as he listened for the first time. He heard it during the meeting, yes, but he never truly listened. It still hurt to hear those words, a pounding in his head equivalent to a gunshot, and he knew those well. Meanwhile, U.K. continued.

         " 'I love him dearly, and am forever grateful for his heroic kindness all those years ago. When my knight in shining armor came to rescue me from the horrid dragon, who would force me to drink liquid flame each night.' "

 America held back a sob. He remembered her telling him these horror stories. Nights filled with terror from a bottle being emptied into her throat.

         " 'But I can't stay if the best position for me to be in is not as his State, but as his ally. I must follow the path that promises my own safety and well being in order to further provide for all those whom I've met and become fast friends with. My position as a Country would benefit not only me but the world as a whole!' " he added emphasis, as excited at this prospect as Alaska was when she gave her speech, " 'I mean no harm. I only want freedom."

     The older Country set the paper down, one of many copied from the meeting they held. Each Country received a stack to look over. It was safe to assume America never opened his. U.K. sighed as he watched America heave a silent sob. His sunglasses were haphazardly thrown to the side, barely on the couch and soon to fall. Placing the tea cup down, its contents nowhere near depleted, he set himself beside his son, placing a gentle, fatherly hand on his back.

         "She wants the same thing as you," he told him, "And you want the same thing as me, all those years ago. America I was hoping you had learned from my mistake. I drove you away, even now there is still contention between us. Don't follow in my footsteps on this. You have in every possible way you can, being one of the most powerful Countries in the world," he chuckled, proud of his son's achievement, an achievement he didn't need him to take hold of, "but this, is insanity, I will admit it now, seeing you in such agony. The same agony I felt."

America peered at his father with a skeptical eye. He doubted his leaving him was as painful as this. United Kingdom frowned, unimpressed with the younger Country's skepticism.

         "There is a pain here," he pressed at the back of his own neck, "and here," he circled from the back of his neck, around his forehead and back again, "I described it as a sword tip edging it's way through my brain to your mother. It drove me insane, I had to keep you just so I could stop the pain. I was losing an entire colony! Me, Great Britain!" He huffed with an amused chuckle at his own mistakes, not forgotten but long passed, "Be greater, son," he told him, "be far greater."

     America watched as his hands trembled. The scenes at Canada's house played in his mind. Finding Alaska, helping her to the couch once she was dried off. Her teeth, her dead stare, so hard to read. Was she angry? Was there bloodlust? Was she anything like Third Reich? The only clear emotion shown, that he remembered, was pure hatred. In that singular moment of hate, she attacked him... because of his own stupid, idiotic words.

         "I think," he choked on his words, tears falling on his hands as he watched them grow red in his own mind, "it's too late for that."

[glorifiedsnickersbar]

Farthest North

Chapter 15 - Imaginary Friends

Word count: 1217

         "Alaska!" A native Aleut, most commonly called an Eskimo by outsiders, called for his Territory, the little girl looking over as she picked up her bright red scarf to run and meet him halfway, "Someone has docked in Homer, a ship like no other."

Curious, the embodiment of the U.S. Territory agreed to find out who this stranger was. If they proved hostile, she wouldn't hesitate to attack. She made sure her Lynx was with her, the only thing that seemed to calm her down in these summer months with it's plush fur and motherly instincts always trying to keep her from trouble.

     When she arrived, thanking her step father for the quick journey before he left, Alaska sighed. This wasn't an everyday occurrence, so she had to keep herself calm. With a small entourage, she stumbled over netting, only to be finally picked up by a sailor, who made her giggle as he placed her on his shoulder. She hoped this new arrival didn't mind her being taller than them, be it artificial height or not. Her sharper teeth could be intimidating! She was just glad of her bright red scarf that hid it from America.

         "Nien! Leg es dort hin!" * 

         "What an odd language..." Alaska giggled, "I like it!" 

The group laughed, earning the stranger's attention as he whipped around, and gave a broad smile as he saw the Territory, though in truth he was disappointed. He was hoping for a challenge.

     For a minute Alaska stared, as did everyone else. She tapped the man's shoulder to be put down. The little Territory stepped over a rope, looking up at the massive ship, metal and rivets looming over her, then to the obvious Country who had docked on her shores, his smile faltering at her silence, hiding his sharp teeth from her. The girl beckoned him to kneel down, her Lynx growling, but she paid no mind as she held the scarf up around her mouth. When he hesitantly kneeled, she used one hand to poke his lips out of the way, and she smiled, revealing her own sharp, menacing teeth.

         "You're like me."

~.~

         "So you met before zhe var," Germany nodded, "Before he revealed his true colors."

The State nodded, calm by now. It helped that America had run off somewhere unknown, thankfully so. 

         "We became friends. He'd visit often(!)." She took another sip of her ice cold water, having been in the freezer for a time before being handed to her, "He knew what it was I was going through each summer, the unbridled anger that would fester, heightened emotions, mostly negative, a constant misery. So he helped me find ways to cope."

         "Ah-nd how vas dhat?" Russia questioned, truly curious, but also deathly afraid of the possibilities.

     Alaska looked to Canada, who nodded, stepping into another room before coming back out of what could be seen as his library. Germany and Russia carried over a coffee table at the red and white Country's order, and he spread out a large map of the world.

         "This is one of many plans to take over your lands." Alaska whispered, shameful of what she so willingly configured in order to feel better, and mentally stable to a point, "I've made more than you can count, it's how I won against Japanese Empire when he took over my islands."

Japan stepped closer, finding her defenses easily crushed by this State. Her fingers trailed to find red lines all across Alaska's borders. Further security. She scanned the map, finding Canada with barely enough strength to fend off the marked attacks, the barrage of bombs, the lack of life for his military. America was no better. First his capital, then his farms. Cut off all waterways and poison the rivers. It was insane but it could work. Australia was basically sunk, China wouldn't know what hit him and Russia? He seemed to suffer the worst of all.

         "This is one of twelve she's made so far this summer," Canada explained, "usually one of her people will visit to throw away and burn what she's made. I decided to bring her here since anyone could walk in her house."

         "Said the one who keeps his door unlocked," Alaska huffed, only to cough as smoke came from her mouth in plumes.

         "Okay, you have me on that one," he sighed.

         "And you're okay with this?" Japan looked to the friendly Country, "You have seen your every defense and offense torn down. By what this map shows, it would only take matter of days, not months, not years, days, to take your land and leave you powerless."

         "She was still a territory," Canada defended her, "easily swayed, easily programmed. Third manipulated her into this for his own gain, and she saw that!"

         "Still, it is troublesome," Germany shook his head, still staring at his borders. Did he really have so many faults?

All was silent as everyone thought, but it didn't last long as Alaska threw her glass to the floor, standing up to loom over Germany.

         "I had my chance to betray my Country," she sneered, "I could have gone vith Dhird! He understood, still does! He vas like a Fadher to me for longer than America or  USSR. Vhat do I have to do? To vhat lengths do I have to go to prove I am nodhing like him?!" Tears evaporated from her cheeks, "I do not vish to kill. I do not vish to betray you all."

Canada gently brought her back down to sit on the couch, and the woman cried into his shirt as she lost her enthusiasm for this seemingly hopeless goal of becoming a Country.

         "Perhaps... America is right."

         "Say that again and I vill steal your land from America." Russia threatened, earning a startled stare from his older sister, "You quit now, the abuse vill continue. No matter vhat he says, that idiot vill not change!" He pulled her up to stand, bending down to pick up the plans so carefully made, only to trudge over to the elaborate fireplace, striking flint to create flame, big enough to burn, but small enough to keep the house cool. He looked to find that Alaska had followed him, so he gave her the map, then pointed to the fire, "Burn your own plans. Dhen vwe vill see if you are like those two злодеи**."

     Everyone watched in anticipation as the State hesitated. She held the map gingerly, as if it was going to shatter any second. Creating something like this was hard work... she couldn't just throw it away like this... but it meant nothing but trouble. Wasted time and tools aside, she couldn't lose her friends over something she didn't even want to go through with. Taking a deep breath, Alaska opened it, taking one last look at her creation before tearing it in half, then quarters, and through it into the fire, watching it burn as the light shone in her smiling eyes, toothed grin showing triumph.

         "I am no villain."

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*Nien! Leg es dort hin - No! Put it over there! (German)

(!) - The only major contact was with Japan during WW2, there is no indication or history of any German troops, before or during the war, coming into Alaska.

**злодеи - villains (Russian)

[glorifiedsnickersbar]

Farthest North

Chapter 14 - They’re Not Fine

Word count: 1338

     Canada huffed as he tried to carry the heavy bucket of snow up the walk of his driveway. This was the 20th one within the day, and he was becoming exhausted. With one last huff, he set it on the front step, about to open his door when he realized... it was already open.

        "Oh no."

Suddenly finding renewed energy, the Country jumped through his door, bucket forgotten, and ran straight for his bedroom, ignoring the muddy, watery footprints all over his house. He only cared for one thing, and he yanked America from stepping closer to it.

         "Canada..." Japan stood, stiff as a board as she stared at the sight. 

     There, in the bathtub, lay a shivering Alaska, the snow surrounding her steaming upon contact with her body. She whimpered, trying to find another bottle to throw at the red, white and blue Country who stared at her from behind those idiotic sunglasses of his. She grasped an empty bottle of beer, sneering with sharpened teeth that made the others flinch. She was about to throw it, when Canada took the brown glass from her hand, having pushed everyone else out of the way to get to her. 

         "Just... give us a second," he told them, but not a person moved, "Get out!" 

They all skittered away.

~.~

         "A-yaska... vhy?" Russia held her unbearably hot hand.

She was shivering, but not from any sort of chill. No it was like a fever, well over 98 degrees, well over 100 degrees. How she wasn't dead yet, no one knew... except Canada and herself. She looked between the Countries, breath labored as Canada pressed an ice chunk to her head, the piece melting and bubbling immediately.

Germany was unsettled, not tearing his eyes away from the sharpened teeth so much like his father's. 

Japan shivered from how cold the house was, and slight fear... no wonder Alaska had trumped her father, Japanese Empire, so easily...

America could hardly believe his eyes. Did Russian Empire know of this? Is it why he was so willing to sell her off? This proves of his cruelty, to have an heir with this dark a side shows who he was on the inside from the beginning. He only came out of his thoughts when Alaska finally spoke.

         "I was going to inform you all... once I became a Country," she looked to her little brother with a pained smile, but he only frowned deeper at her attempt, "It's always been this way during the summer months. Fires take over my land, burn homes, entire forests." Tears dripped from her eyes, but they never landed on the surface of the couch she was laying on, having evaporated on her blue skin, only covered by a one piece swimsuit to help keep her cool, "This is one of the worst years so far (!)... Spring coming early and all."

         "And zhis 'appens every year?" Germany questioned, to which the State nodded with a shaky sigh, "How have you lived?"

Alaska misunderstood his meaning as she glared at the man, growling as she tried to sit up, but Canada wouldn't let her as he kept her down. She was easier to anger, easier to provoke, hard to control.

         "Alaska why didn't you tell us earlier?" Japan sat on the couch, knowing this State wouldn't do harm without thinking, "We could have helped you beforehand. I'm sure America would have sent firefighters to help you in advance."

         "I didn't know if my becoming a Country would have been revoked," she shook her head, "The minute you walked in that door, all you saw was a threat," her voice became high as she tried to keep more tears from falling, and she curled up into the couch, away from the group, "All you saw was Third Reich."

And no one could deny it.

     Germany hated that he couldn't see Alaska... he saw his father. And now the State's actions made sense. Her fearlessness, her preparation, always a step ahead of the game, always seeming to win! So nice... so inviting... would she betray them too? The Country shook his head. That wasn't Alaska. It was impossible! She was doing this to escape the never ending line of abuse. Ask her people, she wasn't horrid, a tyrant looking to rule the world. Her people knew a better peace than America's. But so did the Nazi's, at least in their little sheltered world. 

     Japan had to admit as well, she saw her father's former ally. But if she knew anything, it was that Alaska was far from being Third. She saw how willing she was to destroy the failed Country, and all to get him out of Japan's domain. You don't do that for show and stay as steadfast friends... but Third did that. No, that wasn't Alaska. She's far too inviting, to nice. Prepared, yes, but nothing about this State's earlier actions led her to believe she was capable of such monstrosities as Third Reich.

     Russia was a bit more understanding. He knew his father, their father, and his cruelty to those he didn't agree with. Poor Poland, his people were ravaged,  and he couldn't do anything but fight alongside the ones responsible. Alaska was not willing to risk her own people in battle, not if violence could be avoided. Her visit to his own house proved that. This woman was far from Third. He knew that one would have to push her off the edge in order to truly convince her to go through with such villainy.

     America huffed.

         "This is why you need to stay as my State."

The stares were hard, shocked, and frankly rather appalled. Was America truly this shallow?

         "What?" Alaska sat up to look at her Country, a betrayed expression on her face, "W-why?"

         "You'll be safe with me," he explained, failing to understand the context of her one word question, "I can provide more than enough support to put out these fires! You'll be as good as new in no time! Not to mention that if this gets out beyond us, and you become a Country, what's North Korea gonna do? Not to mention Saudi Arabia, that deal is out the window when you run out of oil. Poland will fear you, Israel too. I mean look at Germany!" He pointed, not seeing the pointed glare sent his way by the Country, "How many friends are you going to lose?"

Alaska was silent as everyone else looked to see her reaction, prepared to keep her at bay if needed. To their surprise, no attack came as she stared at the floor.

         "Your nice words," she began, heartbroken, "Your small gifts. Random texts, the roses, so beautifully placed. The fanciful ball," she looked up at him once more, her sharpened teeth bared, and her grip on the couch making the seams split, "Was all to make me feel at home, as your State?"

         "And I thought it was work-"

The attack came as Alaska lunged at the man, making him rear back, falling to the floor, but she was quickly captured by the other four. She struggled against Russia, who was surprisingly just barely strong enough to hold her. This State had strength like her father. He soon needed Canada's help to keep her down while Japan went to get the last bucket of snow in the freezer out back. Germany looked down at America, who shook his head in disappointment of his State. Glasses having fallen off, he lifted a hand for Germany's help up, but only received spit running down his face as the Country walked off, wiping his mouth after his show of distaste in his friend's actions.

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(!) - The worst fire season was logged in 2004, the Taylor Complex Fire being the largest wildfire recorded in the U.S. since 1997, which ravaged over 1,300,000 acres. Summed together the total wildfire count was 6.5 million acres burned within the summer of 2004, the highest total in U.S. history.

[glorifiedsnickersbar]

Curses and Swear Words

Me: I'm going to ask if anyone has a CH short story request!

My Logic: You legit have... two or three followers that actually care, you have a post you've been procrastinating to do on Instagram, you have a fashion class that needs finished, a story you still need to post in general and laundry to do.

Me: *is crying* but I wanna make people smile --

My Logic: When you're not procrastinating.

[glorifiedsnickersbar]

Farthest North

Chapter 13 - He’s Fine

Word count: 1060

         "Where's Canada?" America questioned as he sat down at their table, "Didn't he say he'd be here this time?"

No one wore their coats anymore, the harsh winter had turned into a glorious summer! Japan decided to make the most of it and choose a wondrous garden where greens and browns littered the view, not quite ready to give out the precious colors of flowery blooms yet. The pavilion provided shade from the warm sun, not that the group needed protection since they all welcomed the gentle rays of gold God had bestowed to the Earth's populace.

         "He hasn't cancelled," Japan looked to her phone, "unlike the last... five times," she sighed at that, "It's still not like him though..."

Everyone nodded, Germany making a comment in his native tongue that no one understood, which made him roll his eyes as he waved it off as nothing.

         "I find it oddly suspicious," Russia stated, earning a 'no duh, Sherlock' from America, which resulted in a small fist fight that Germany had to split up, with the help of Japan and the just-so-happened-to-pass-by Philippines. When the two were properly separated, Japan bowed in thanks to Philippines before he left with a wave and a smile, glad his brother Martial Law taught him something that was useful. The two now pouting Countries were back at the table.

         "Heard anything from Alaska then?" Japan questioned her trade partner, to which America gave a small nod.

         "She's called a few times. I thought it was to pick her up or something, but she always said 'no'. I'm a little vexed at how quiet she's been though."

         "Y-ike you noticed before hah-nd," Russia huffed, earning a slap upside his head from Germany, forcing the Ushanka to the ground.

America growled.

         "Maybe Canada is working through some political troubles," Japan offered, "Everyone has those times."

America's phone made a PING, startling him as he realized who it was. Quickly yanking it from his back pants pocket, the Country frowned.

        "He's not coming. Something about... political unrest."

         "Are you buying it?" Russia sat back up, dusting off his signature head covering before placing it back on his bare head.

         "He hasn't lied before," America reasoned, "I don't think he has it in him..."

         "Your fadher also didn't zhink you had it in you to revolt and dump an entire shipment of tea over zhe harbour." Germany noted with a huff, folding his arms over each other.

         "That was different," America pointed an accusing finger, "I couldn't even support myself taxes were so high."

         "Sounds y-ike a certain State," Russia glared at his rival.

         "First of all, Alaska doesn't have taxes like I did! The only exceptions being liquor, legal marihuana, Federal tax, and a few others."

         "Marihuana is legal there?" Japan marveled.

         "She plans on changing zhat to an extent," Germany clarified, "she hates zhe smell."

         "I vasn't speaking of her non-existent taxes," Russia huffed, "A-yaska had enough troubles vith dhe constant raising of food prices in general! You vwere starving her! Not to mention dhe over-use of her oil reserves!"

         "That was none of your business! What are you, spying you communist?!"

         "If some-vun vas paying attention, you vould have heard her list of grievances during dhe second meeting!"

         "BOYS!" Japan screeched, earning both their attention as she stood up, making the table shake as her fists connected with it, "instead of arguing like you're going to start another war, cold or not, I suggest we find out just exactly what is going on."

Everyone stayed quiet, Germany having occupied himself with a book he brought along. This wasn't his affair.

         "Now," she let her knuckles glide across the metal table as she put the rest of her weight on her feet, "Either we could split up, and see how both Alaska and Canada are doing, or we could all go to one house."

     It was decided that they all go to Canada's house first, much to Russia's disagreement, but if Canada was truly experiencing political unrest, he may need the moral support. America sure did during his infamous Civil War. Since Germany was the only one without heightened emotions, or at least he looked it, they used his ring, knowing that his mind wouldn't wander to other things. The group of four stepped onto the front lawn of Canada's very large log cabin, nowhere as quaint as Alaska's. It's logs gleamed in the sunlight, tints of red and white framing its glory.

It was oddly silent.

     America headed straight for the door, hoping his little brother wasn't tearing apart like he almost did all those years ago. Germany stopped him.

         "It is probably locked."

America laughed.

         "He's too trusting."

So the door was opened.

Still, silence.

The group travelled through the open living room, leaving small tracks of water behind from the misplaced puddle on the front step. Japan mumbled something about a horror movie, Russia resisted the urge to check the fridge, and Germany admired the architecture. Meanwhile America was looking frantically through the first floor for his little brother.

         "Canada?" He had no clue why he was whispering.

         "Perhaps he's-" Germany was interrupted by a crash from the second story of the house, a familiar yet foreign sound of glass, alerting the Countries as they started running up the stairs, failing to take note of the trail of water that only went one way.

     Each searched a room for the source of the eerie sound, finding each bed of Canada's States empty, and Canada's in disarray. This alarmed America the most, knowing how tidy his brother was.

         "Where have we not checked?" Japan questioned, and all became silent, having the same idea: Listen.

All came to the same conclusion: it was far too quiet.

         America sighed, about to go out when Germany stopped him with an arm. The red, white and blue Country was going to protest, but the German put a finger to his lips before pointing toward the one door in Canada's room. The master bath. The light was on, and a long trail of water seemed to try and hide beneath the door. Everyone slowly inched forward, the first to take the nob being America as he forced the building saliva down his throat. All peered in as the door swung. No one made a sound at what greeted them.

[glorifiedsnickersbar]

Swing the Sadness Away

A short story; featuring Countryhumans United States of America

Word count: 1357

         “Look, we know you’ve been down lately,” Canada urged his brother to get up from his bathroom floor, “so we booked a table at a nice bar.”

         “You don’t book tables at bars, you just show up,” America mumbled, refusing to leave the tub of cold water that soaked his clothes. He couldn’t even go outside anymore without his people screaming at him about how much of a failure he was. The riots, the lockdowns, stupid laws he had no control over. He was only the embodiment, he had no dealings in the politics of his land. He was forced to face the consequences that, in truth, had nothing to do with him. He couldn’t even tell most that he can’t do anything, that if he did, he’d be breaking laws set in place by his own race. Holy Roman Empire was destroyed because of intervening, so were so many tribes and peoples... he didn’t want that for his own population, to spiral them into ruin... but it seemed they were doing it on their own sometimes. “And I don’t want to show up.”

         “You’ve been in this bathtub for three hours,” Mexico poked his head around the door, a bored expression on his face, “We’re going out.”

        “It’s a better coping mechanism than going out, getting drunk or doing drugs, ya’ addict.”

         “Keep my stereotype out of this!” Mexico huffed.

         “Forgive him,” Canada sighed, “We all know no one has control over what they do sometimes.”

Mexico wandered off, mumbling something along the lines of ‘stupid humans’ or some-such insult.

     After another battle of wits and perhaps some strength in getting America out of the bathtub, the star clad patriot looked to the suit on his bed, cocking a brow as he looked to his younger brother.

         “I thought you said we were going to a bar-”

         “We are,” he shrugged, “It’s Swing Night. We know how nostalgic you can get sometimes, so we thought we’d bring you somewhere you can experience your glory days again.”

America frowned, looking back to the black ensemble before him. It had been awhile since he went out somewhere nice...

     The group soon came together, finding Spain, France and a few others had joined in as well, but America was rather sour.

         “Don’t be surprised if they only play ‘In the Mood’ over and over, or some mixed versions,” he straightened his collar, “Most of it will probably be rap afterwards anyway. Or country, something the kids like nowadays.”

         “Yikes, you sound like Britain,” France giggled, her swing dress bobbing as she flew up the few steps to the door, “just have a few drinks and let up my dear boy! We’ll swing the night away!”

         “How much wine did she have before coming with you?” America asked Spain, who chuckled.

         “None. Though I may have slipped a little something in her sparkling water before we came. She was more of a stick in the mud than you before getting here.”

America mumbled something about Spaniards, but the man was already in the building.

         “See? Told you-”

America sighed as they walked in to the blaring sound of ‘In the Mood’. Needless to say he was unamused and frankly already tired of humans before seeing a single one down the hallway. He trailed behind, bumping into Canada before he realized they had stopped. About to say a profanity, the down veteran looked past them, seeing a sight he hadn’t in along time.

     Everyone was in their old Swing Dance regalia, dancing the night away to the beat in the golden glow as a young woman DJ’d for the forgotten and neglected generation so many made fun of. The generation that saw war, the generation no one will listen to because they don’t agree with the modern ideals. Men and women well in their 90′s laughed as they swung on their partners, some being rather adventurous as they were swung over another’s shoulder. A few waved at the Countries, smiling widely as others ushered them onto the dance floor.

         “Don’t be scared,” a petite woman, hair grey but long, voice youthful though her cheeks sagged, beckoned them to follow, “come on in!”

         “Uh... I think we found the wrong place-” Mexico mumbled out.

         “No, no, this is right,” America stepped out of the small crowd of Countryhumans, “This is perfect.”

He offered a hand to the woman, who giggled before taking it and practically dragging him across the dance floor.

     The audience clapped as America danced his heart out, never being left alone, always having a joyful partner to keep that smile on his face. The others took a little longer to warm up to the idea of dancing with a man or woman that looked so much older, though they themselves were practically ancient. Either way, they all had the time of their lives, America being the bravest as he sung a song or two, his voice as smooth as Frank Sinatra’s, ‘The Coffee Song’ keeping the smiles on his audience’s face as they danced along and clapped, stomped their feet and twirled.

         “I’d like to thank you all,” he laughed into the microphone, “For this wonderful night. I... I hadn’t had this much fun in years...”

The room became quiet as the man wept, the young woman who organized the event coming up with a tissue, a soft smile on her face as he took it.

         “So many still love you. We know it’s not your fault. It’s corrupt people and stupid human nature,” she chuckled, “Just know that when you need a break, you can dance the night away.”

     America woke up in his bathtub, looking around with tears in his eyes, a stark difference to the freezing water that surrounded him. He stumbled out, looking to his empty bed. 

A dream. Go figure.

The wounded soldier stumbled on to change, only to make a detour out of his room, not caring that he had no clue to where his feet took him, or that his car was now soaked in the front seat. He only paid attention when his soaked feet hit concrete, the building familiar, but dilapidated. Boards hung loosely, the stairs were rotted, and the inside smelled of watered down smoke. He followed the hallway, turning, like in his dream, only his audience was silence, ghosts of a good time staring back at him menacingly. The dance floor was flooded with lingering rain, the middle sunken in like an upturned umbrella. 

         “It burned down,” America jumped at the elderly voice, his breath labored, obviously having smoked, “three years ago. No one has the money to bring her back to life.”

         “Who owns it?” America questioned.

         “The bank. I was going to give it to my granddaughter but- I’m afraid no one will higher an old veteran like me. I couldn’t keep up with the payments.”

     America wiped tears from his face once more, finally paying full attention to the old man behind him. His hair was short, the usual military cut he had adopted. The Medal of Honor hung around his neck, dress uniform well kept, though baggy around his older frame. 

         “What- uh, how did you earn it?” he questioned.

         “I’m surprised you asked,” the man chuckled with an amused smile, not needing an explanation to what the embodiment was referring to, “My platoon was gunned down, so I played the rabbit, jumping from hole to hole until I could properly dispose of the Jap’ throwing the artillery around like water balloons. I was just being stupid, now that I look back... a young Private.” He sighed, chuckling to himself, “ah, but no one cares to ask anymore. Most don’t know what it is.”

         “Much less what it takes to earn one,” America nodded, standing a bit straighter, “I thank you for your service, sir. I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for your part.”

         “No problem, Uncle Sam.” The old soldier saluted with a lopsided grin.

     America looked around again before stepping toward the man, placing a hand on his back.

         “I’ll bring this place back. Where people can dance the night away.”

-~~-

Dear USA - 

We still love you

Sincerely,          Those who know what it cost to keep you free

[glorifiedsnickersbar]

Farthest North

Chapter 12 - She’s Fine

Word count: 1356

     Alaska decided that a stroll would be nice... what she didn't expect was going for a stroll with two very unprepared Countries.

         "It's waist deep!" Screamed America as he fell off Alaska's porch.

         "Dude, you need to get out more," Canada chuckled, helping the fallen man back up on the porch. He peered back in through the open door, watching as Alaska placed her bouquet of roses in a clear, snow-like vase. America was a complete gentleman and brought her blue roses with 8 gold ones in its center. 

         "You two go on ahead," she called, "I'll catch up."

They nodded before Canada made sure his elder brother had all of his snow gear on, soon trudging through the waist deep snow. It wouldn't be hard for the State to catch up with their trail and slow pace. 

         "The flowers were a nice touch," Canada smiled warmly.

         "Anything to keep me on her good side," he grinned.

         "For the last time, America, she doesn't hate you. Far from it."

A soft plodding of snow interrupted their conversation as they saw Alaska walk past them... gliding atop the snow. She wasn't even sinking down, not enough to cover her heavy mukluks anyway.

         "Hold up," America squinted as he took his sunglasses off, making Alaska turn around.

         "What?"

         "I know you're tall," Canada started, equally as curious, "but you're not... that tall..."

The blue and gold woman tilted her head as she stared at the two, confused. She then looked down, and laughed, bringing confused looks to her step uncle and step father's faces. Alaska then lifted up a foot, revealing strapped snowshoes, made of willow and strips of hide.

         "Snowshoes."

     This was a distant memory by now. When the snow was still high, and the birds hadn't travelled back from their winter vacation yet. Now the snow was wet, the human children were making snowmen, though they looked more like mud-men. Everyone was greeting Spring with excited faces. It came early, that meant warm weather, sprinklers and swimsuits. No more heavy coats, no more clunky snow boots and best of all, no more ice on the roads. Everyone was being seen more often as their breath was seen less in the open air, smiles always willing to greet their neighbor, for most anyway. Such wasn't the case for North Korea and other such Countries. The recent events weren't forgotten, of course.

     Everyone was so excited, not only did Spring bring warm weather, but it would possibly bring a State to Country-hood. They couldn't wait for the next meeting... but U.N. kept forgetting. A constant flow of letters, a reminder on his calendar, even an alarm on his phone... he always seemed to be easily distracted. Even U.N. himself was confused. He wasn't this forgetful, everyone agreed. It was abnormal for him, and he hated it... Alaska deserved to be a Country. 

         "Has anyone seen her?" Canada questioned the group, "I've been looking everywhere."

Japan shook her head with a frown.

         "The last I saw she was in a hurry to get home, so asked China if he could send her back."

         "When was that?" the worried Country questioned.

         "Dhree days ago," Russia finally took his coat off, then his Ushanka, wiping sweat from his brow, "I vas getting groceries."

        "Only because Yakutia finally started complaining," Mongolia huffed, earning a sober growl from Russia, which was even scarier than if he was drunk.

         "Stay avway from my kids," he warned, and the Country scuttled away.

     Sighing, Canada decided to ask America. He's been doting on her for awhile now, so perhaps he knows where she's been. It was a short walk through the wormhole to find the powerful Country playing with his States in the backyard. Arizona was still in a heavy coat as she sat under a heat lamp, giggling through her shivers, only to yell at Utah as he threw a snowball her way. Canada had to duck as Wyoming pounced on him from the newly set up trampoline in the backyard, sending the State flying into a pile of roof-shed snow.

         "You okay?" he chuckled, picking up the snow covered boy.

         "Never better!" his buffalo scrunched up on his face as snow melted down his back.

         "Four!"

Canada was struck by a snowball to his head.

         "New Jersey," America scolded, "What did I say about keeping the snowballs from the waist down?"

Canada chuckled as he wiped the remaining snow from his red and white face.

         "But tha' horts worse..." 

The boys around him agreed, and America winced.

         "Alright the chest down." He submitted, and they all cheered, resuming their game, "What's up? Besides that snowball," the patriot inquired with an embarrassed chuckle.

         "I've been looking for Alaska," Canada explained his quest, only to see that this mission was fruitless by the deep frown that covered his brother's face, "You forgot again, didn't you."

America stomped the snow beneath him in his anger at himself.

         "I'm a terrible father..."

        "You're not the one who lets his kids drink vodka," Canada huffed, "I'll go with my only lead then."

         "I'll come wi-"

         "Papa! Come build a snowman with me!"

America turned to see New Mexico waving him down, and sighed.

         "You stay here," Canada chuckled, "I think your hoard needs your attention."

         "Oh, ha. Ha." he adjusted his sunglasses, "You'll tell me if she's alright?" 

         "Of course," Canada assured.

         "Cool. Stay safe Cana-dad."

         "Sure thing A-mom-ica."

         "Ha-... wait what?"

But Canada was already jumping through his self made wormhole, laughing before landing in far from waist deep snow. It confused him... was he not in the right place? No, he was sure he thought of Alaska. Looking up, indeed this was her cabin, though it was strangely odd to see without it's snow covered walls. Looking around, the Canadian saw no tracks, aside from a moose, but those were old, and it seemed to be running. Perhaps Alaska scared it off.

     Stepping up to the porch, the man noticed one thing: the door was ajar. Opening it up further, he peered in. The roses were wilted in their vase, blue a deathly grey, and golden-yellow a hideous puke-like green. Mold covered the sides of the vase, making it look choked. 

         "Alaska?" he called, receiving nothing but silence.

     The floor creaked beneath his booted feet, and he shivered from how cold the house was. There was no difference between inside and outside temperatures. Panic began to set in as Canada looked to the messy kitchen, seeing bloodied knives dried and still waiting cleaned, plates shattered on the floor, and a trail of crimson droplets leading to the living room, and behind the wardrobe. The behemoth had obviously been moved, a surprising feat in itself with the heavy wood, especially since it had also been moved back. Canada managed to at least move it some as the feet squealed their disliking of being pushed along. When it would budge no more, he tried to peer behind it, only to hear a pin drop. Picking up the red colored object, Canada's eyes widened, soon tearing down the paper hidden behind the wardrobe.

     Down came millions of tacks, some red, others white, a few were green. Each having a sticker attached, each sticker with a name. The one he held read "Poland". The paper finished it's fluttering, the map of the world torn after several tacks stayed in their place on the wall. Backing from his horrid discovery, Canada called for Alaska again, hearing a soft whimpering, barely heard over his beating heart, from the hallway. Tack still in hand, the frantic Country barely missed the bear trap as he slammed into the wall, seeing one of two rooms with it's light on. Expecting the worst, he slowly opened the door, peering in with panicked breaths sending puffs of fogged air out before him. Canada froze at what he saw.

         "A-Alaska?"

--------------------

Fun fact:

     During Russian Empire's rule, Alaska Natives were used as test subjects. One known test was how many people a bullet could go through before stopping. The known maximum was 8 people before the bullet halted.

[glorifiedsnickersbar]

Farthest North

Chapter 11 - The Second Meeting

Word count: 1260

     The second meeting had ended some time ago, but America was still in his seat. He stared at the empty space where Alaska had stood, dumbfounded. Not only was she one meeting closer to being a Country, but most everyone was agreeing that she should become one. Even U.N. himself mumbled something along the lines of 'thank goodness' when the vote was cast. America had no say, her being his State. This was her decision, and his vote may sway the whole of the congregation. He wanted to scream his say so badly though.

         "Absolutely not! It's a terrible world out here!"

He wanted to keep her safe from those who wanted her out of his protection. North Korea was already creating plans of his own to go against her, having heard something of three military bases already established on her land. 

     His head began to throb, forcing the man to lay it on the cool, polished wood of the desk. He stared at his faint reflection, swearing that he could see his 50 waver to 49, but he blinked, and it was gone. He wondered if this would cause his other States to revolt, claim independence, want out of some sort of unrealized abuse...

He was a good father, right?

He did his best with at least his 49 other States, right?

         "The States!"

     America burst from his seat, running out the door and through empty hallways, dashing down the stairs with his coat flying behind him as he tried to put it back on. He had left the States at home, not wanting to have to deal with vertigo and trying to find each one in their designated lands. The star clad patriot had made it a block from the meeting hall when he heard keys in his pocket, remembering he had driven there... no, bad idea in his state of mind. Instead he used his ring, despite the pounding headache equivalent to a gunshot roaring through his skull.

     Standing on the front porch, America slowly opened his door after unlocking it, peering into the foyer of his mansion. He saw little Virginia staring back.

         "Are you okay?" the young girl questioned, looking at her father curiously, and somewhat skeptically.

         "DAD HELP!"

America jumped as Tennessee latched onto his leg, her little hands like glue as she refused to let go in her panic.

         "What's the matter?" he looked at her with a panicked expression.

         "Texas is making flapjacks again!" she screeched, and the father rolled his eyes.

Oh dear.

         "Just because he burnt the last batch doesn't mean he's going to-"

         "Someone get the fire extinguisher!"

He heard Arkansas holler, and immediately protective father mode was activated as America limped down the hall into the kitchen, finding Texas spluttering on a stool as Georgia tried to fan the smoke out the kitchen window.

         "You guys, what did I say about cooking while I'm not here?" he questioned, "And without your apron?"

The five States look to their feet, even Tennessee as she let go of her father's leg.

     Three others came back into the kitchen, each with a fire extinguisher, freezing once they realized America was home. Mississippi set his tool down, while North and South Carolina held theirs until America sighed, shaking his head.

         "We just wanted to make you feel better..." Arkansas shuffled a foot, "you know... since... little sis is leaving and all."

The rest of them nodded with a whimpering of 'mm-hm', a symphony of apologetic children.

         "You guys-"

         "We found the oranges!" Louisiana, Alabama and Florida came with great big smiles at their victory, only to frown at the sight of the kitchen, and a very amused America.

         "Orange juice, Florida?" He chuckled, and the State nodded with a shrug and bashful smile, "Come here you guys," he opened his arms for a hug from his States, each running to him with big goofy smiles, mostly relieved that they weren't in trouble, "Thanks."

         "Anything for our pops!" Alabama grinned, earning a poke from America as they all giggled.

He wanted to share these moments with Alaska too... 

(*)

~.~

         "Isn't it exciting?" Japan bounced, "One more meeting, and you'll be a full fledged Country!"

Alaska remained sober as she nodded with a small smile, and Germany leaned in his seat to peer at the State.

         "Some-ting zhe matter?" he questioned, ignoring the drunken snoring of a very much so dead to the world Russia.

         "I just... wish I could be as excited as you guys," she gave a melancholic smile, "I feel no pain from it, but America..."

A solemn silence fell on the group, Canada breaking it as he sighed.

         "He'll be fine," the syrup loving Country assured, "in no time at all, we'll have to get a sixth seat so you can join our usual get-togethers."

Alaska's smile widened as she thanked the group, earning a loud and obnoxious 'velcome' from Russia as he looked up for the two seconds it took to say it. The group laughed, and Alaska agreed to take Russia to his house once they finished up their last conversation, Germany giving her a small 'thank you', since he didn't have to return the drunkard to his house once again. 

     Fishing through Russia's pocket, Alaska found his ring, and told him to think of his living room. Not the best tactic but she couldn't use his ring, neither could any other Country. The man sloppily threw it, and Alaska was glad he at least thought of his house, coming up to the front porch as she carried him like a sack of potatoes. She checked the door. Locked. Sighing, Alaska rummaged through her little brother's pockets, failing to find his house keys.

         "If only you were as trusting as Canada," she huffed, knowing he didn't lock his door at all.

         "Dhat's probably my fault."

She froze at the voice of USSR, a familiar, painful sound.

         "Father," she greeted curtly, and he nodded with a soft smile that put her on edge.

         "Best you come in before eidher of you catch cold," he warned, making Alaska huff.

         "Said the Country who always needed an extra parka when you visited."

         "Touche," he tipped his Ushanka, old and somewhat matted.

     Alaska dragged Russia in, setting him on the couch.

         "Risking anodher treasonous act for family?" he questioned with a sly expression, earning a sour one in return.

         "The second meeting was today," she announced, "As of an hour ago I am allowed to meet whomever I please without the possibility of a penalty from my Country."

The Eskimo fixed her parka before turning on her heel to walk out, only to be stopped by the slamming of the front door in her face.

         "Do not dhink I am blind," he growled, "dhese Countries see an innocent State. Have dhey seen your past?"

Alaska trembled, an old fear creeping back up into her spine as it prickled in remembrance of countless broken vodka bottles piercing her skin. She growled, hating this power he has over her while in truth he lost it all.

         "Dhey have seen vhat dhey are villing to see," the woman glared back, pushing her father out of the way before he could block the door completely, "I find Russia vith vun mark on his body," she held up a threatening finger, "I vill kill you myself."

And with that, she stormed off, flipping the hood of her parka over her head to keep out the biting wind that had grown.

--------------------

*These are/were the infamous Confederate States

[glorifiedsnickersbar]

Farthest North

Chapter 10 - Cinderella Didn’t Run

Word count: 1310

     The festivities were going smoothly, albeit early, and America was worried. Alaska hadn't shown yet, and he remembered she always wanted to help... so he gave her a later time than everyone else. It was only 5:52... maybe he was worrying too much... Then he saw her. At first a faint silhouette, but the light from inside made her stars sparkle on her face as she smiled sheepishly. The shorter Country marveled at the exquisite Kimono that adorned her. Blue and gold, an obviously expensive silk, and a small, elegant diamond necklace. 

         "Am... am I late?" she questioned, jolting the American from his stupor.

         "No, of course not," he smiled, sunglasses hiding his wide eyes, "They all came earlier."

At least it wasn't a lie.

     He led the grown State in, announcing her arrival, and everyone clapped, most having met her already, but a few hadn't. She smiled bashfully, a barely seen blush dusting her cheeks. America led her through the crowd, telling her all who were there. U.K., or Britain, hadn't seen the woman yet, and was quite surprised at her height, despite the stories he's heard. America exclaimed how he was so proud of his daughter, going through many Countries to finish the formalities.

     Japan sighed at the table, having spoken to Alaska already. She was with Germany and Russia, who weren't quite sure if this party was for Alaska or for America just to say how proud he was of her. Russia looked to the woman at their table.

         "You sound yike you just svooned." he snickered.

         "Shut it, baka*," she growled, "You can't say you didn't stare when she walked in, albeit for different reasons, not even Germany acted like he was disinterested!"

Said Country took a long pull from his champagne...

         "You being a matchmaker now?" Russia sneered.

         "No," she huffed, "Look at that Kimono! It's the prettiest I've seen! The design, the patterns. Someone took great care in it."

They watched as the State soon came to greet China. Alaska bowed, confused when he did not bow next, only to come up, bringing a hand to her mouth in surprise as he then bowed, a bit lower than hers.

         "He bowed lower?!" Japan screeched.

         "So?" Russia huffed.

         "No-no-no! You don't get it! China rarely bows anymore, once Imperial China died the tradition almost died with him, even I do it more than him and his people, if he's bowing then he holds her in very high esteem! And by that face I think she knows it."

The three watched as China brought himself up, his traditional garb nowhere near as elegant as hers, his red and gold contrasting to Alaska's blue. He led her away from America, who was about to protest, but thought better of it when his father looked toward him suspiciously.

     Japan bounced in her seat as she smiled, Germany calling her a 'dork' as he chuckled. She then started to mumble, failing to notice the two red and blue figures coming her way.

         "Oh I know! Chilaska!"

Germany spit his drink back into the glass while Russia wheezed, making the female Country look between them confused, until she finally saw the two shadows... She looked up sheepishly, a nervous smile on her face.

        "Hey," she waved.

         "Ni hao**, Japan," China looked very unamused, while Alaska shook her head with a small giggle, "Alaska wanted to make sure you all were doing well."

         "She can't ask us herself?" Russia laughed, wiping a tear from his eye.

         "China beat me to the punch," she explained with a sweet smile, "I'll assume you're doing well then, according to your snickers and Japan's starry eyed look."

Said Country had stood, wearing her own Kimono, the dusty pink like fallen Cherry Blossoms. She was able to get Alaska to step away from the other Country as she examined the work done. The seams were flawless, design made to fit her and her alone, and the colors were stunning.

         "Blue, for ascendance, and Gold, for wealth and value," China stated proudly, "A perfect combination."

         "I dhought it just matched her fy-ag," Russia stated, taking a long pull from the champagne bottle, much to Germany's disagreement.

         "Not everything simply means what's obvious," the man rolled his eyes.

         "Don't get all philosophical on us," Japan twittered, "You'll put them to sleep."

Alaska laughed, earning all four's attention as they smiled soft smiles. Her laugh was so sweet, like hot cocoa on a chilly winter's day, or a bright fire lighting up the room as you read a book. They wanted to hear it more often.

         "Forgive me China, I shouldn't laugh."

         "It's quite alright, my dear," he nodded his head slowly, glaring at Japan as she squealed, "It was a simple poke of fun anyway."

     The night continued on, Alaska having the time of her life as she mingled with other Countries. North Korea had taken quite the disliking of her, only coming because South Korea wouldn't stop pestering him, but the southern half seemed to like the State well enough. Saudi Arabia, despite his original vote to help the poor State, also disliked her, all because she claimed that she didn't want the oil he would have happily supplied. Of course she said it was a possibility for the future, but until then, he was a rival. She spoke with her adoptive grandfather, U.K. who simply adored her, but one question he just had to ask:

         "Why not wear one of your own ensembles?" he questioned, "I'm sure your people have many elegant designs."

         "Any elegance in our designs are ceremonial only," she explained, "unfortunately once I was adopted by America, and during my time beneath Russian Empire, most of my traditions were lost, along with such ensembles. That, and I'm afraid I didn't have anything fit for a formal gathering."

France felt her fashion sense tingle, tracking it all the way to her husband and Alaska. She greeted the State with a smile.

         "Oh how lovely you've grown," she cooed, "give me a turn, dearie."

She sighed at the elegant silk that adorned the woman.

         "Parfaite***," she giggled, "You must tell me, what designer created your flag? It's so simple yet elegant, matches you perfectly!"

         "No designer created it," Alaska shook her head, a soft smile becoming an amused one at France's confused expression, "Before I became a State there was a territory wide contest, for the children."

         "A child designed it?" France gasped, what a turn of events in her world.

         "A young Native boy named Benny Benson, he was 13," Alaska smiled, remembering that loved day, "His was chosen over 700 other participants. I memorized his description by heart:

'The blue is for the Alaska sky and the Forget-me-not, an Alaskan flower. The Northern Star is for the future state of Alaska, the most northerly in the union. The Dipper is for the Great Bear--symbolizing strength.' "

Alaska wiped away a tear, still smiling.

         "He was given to an orphanage after his mother died, so he depicted me as the prettiest thing he saw before going to bed each night, Ursa Major and the North Star. He was so excited when he met me in person. We were fast friends from then on."

France and U.K. looked to each other, then back up to the taller woman, each with a pained expression. Such irony littered in her past... A simple flower... Yet it described her future as well. Becoming a State... and her strength compares to no other it seems.

         "Pauvre cher *'..." France sighed, wiping away the last tear with her handkerchief, "Come, let us have some drinks," she suggested, and offered the State some champagne, but she declined, enjoying a simple sparkling cider.

--------------------

*Baka - fool (Japanese)

**Ni hao - good day (Chinese)

***Parfaite - Perfect (French)

*' Pauvre cher - you poor dear (French)

[glorifiedsnickersbar]

Prized Possession

A short story; featuring Countryhumans Egypt

Word count: 1474

         “Down here!” 

The excited patter of feet on stone echoed through the forgotten tunnels. Archeologists, originally scattered throughout the maze of catacombs, now conglomerated in one spot as a group of muscled men pushed against a well fitted stone. 

         “Wait!” a little shrimp of a man ordered, trudging over with his two sizes too big boots and oval glasses sliding down his pointed nose, “Wait, wait wait- there are writings along this wall. If you remove the stone from its place you will destroy them!” 

         “They look like every other glyph on that wall,” A stocky man with a bright red beard huffed, “Just take a picture, you can decipher it later.”

The group started to push the boulder again, but the little man pushed at them, albeit a vain attempt if it wasn’t for the intelligence of the second man trying to move the heavy weight.

         “Professor,” the group halted again, “Our orders aren’t to scrutinize everything. It’s to get as low as we can through the palace catacombs. By the slant in this floor it’s clear this boulder was rolled to conceal a passage. We’re just doing our job.”

         “Well let me do mine!” the shrimpy, pointy nosed man huffed, a rather high pitched sound, “Egypt himself sent me ahead, and I plan to give him a full report of what’s found, down to the most minute detail,” He smashed his thumb and forefinger for emphasis, “Now either you let me do my job, or I get you all fired!”

         “Ever the grumpy one, aren’t you Jayden.”

     All turned to find the country’s embodiment leaning against a darkly lit wall, yawning as he pushed himself up. He brushed off his well tailored suit, slipping a loose hair back into its place with the gelled mass that always wanted to escape back into its natural curl. He nodded to the men before him.

         “Those hieroglyphs aren’t the only things that would have been destroyed if you’d have continued,” reaching up, he scratched a fingernail against the ceiling above, rock streaming down as if it were sand, “That boulder is the support for this entire ceiling, like a wall in a house. My father was a genius in building structures such as this. Remove that, and you’d have been crushed.”

The group of heavy lifters moved away from the boulder, looking at each other in a silent agreement that they had better be more careful. 

         “Truly amazing,” Professor Jayden marveled, running a finger under the hieroglyphs, “Egypt, this may be the tunnel system your father told you about!” He jumped on the balls of his feet as he looked across the walls, identifying markings and structures that could potentially lead them through the maze, “I’m reading the hieroglyphics, and-and they all explain an aspect of a goddess. Just, over and over - goddess of treasures, goddess of light, there’s one by the twenty-second column that says ‘goddess by-”

         “My side…” Egypt nodded, looking around, “Yes, I saw it. But it could mean anything.”

         “You act like you’ve given up finding your father’s most prized possession,” the professor huffed, “So much was lost of your father through the years. We can’t lose hope on anything if we’re coming so close now!”

Egypt sighed before nodded, helping in the search for more clues, something that could direct them further into the maze of corridors and treacherous traps. They had already lost three men to hidden dangers set eons ago.

     It was several long and grueling hours later when the archeological crew decided to leave things be for the day. The humans believed they were getting nowhere, aside from the Professor, who insisted they go on as he looked over another set of hieroglyphs. The heavy lifters, tired and frankly agitated at the rat-like man, threw him only profanities as they stomped off, knowing the way by now after bathroom breaks and having to constantly find new supplies above ground. Professor Jayden huffed as he continued to read and decipher, mumbling a few profanities of his own. Meanwhile Egypt inspected something of his own. 

     A portrait, carved deeply into the stone, was far too peculiar, even for Ancient Egypt’s standards of gods with animal heads. No, this was a woman, shrouded in light linen that hid all of her skin from anyone’s eye. She stood before Ancient Egypt, who seemed to scrutinize her. Egypt thought he knew what the carving was, but the manner of the woman was far from what he remembered.

         “Professor…” he started, his attention remaining on the delicate details of the woman, “What do you make of this?”

The pocket professor looked over briefly before waving a hand in dismissal.

         “Either a slave inspection, an offering to one of his gods or a concubine.”

         “But she is completely covered,” the Country noted, “not an inch of skin shows. That was not exactly commonplace, even amongst the Jews in that day.”

         “Oh I doubt that,” the other huffed, forgetting his place for a moment as the student, being a teacher for so long now after graduating under Egypt’s tutorage, “Her face can’t be- well hello…” he inspected the carving, Egypt having to quickly step back before his toes were mauled, “You’re right- most peculiar… If it was a slave there wouldn’t be much covered… an offering would be much younger. And a-”

         “A concubine would flaunt her beauty to earn his attention,” Egypt gently touched the carving, frowning as the lightly painted white began to rub off on his fingers. He scratched at again as curiosity took hold, knowing any carving meant to last wouldn’t just rub off so easily. “Jayden get me a small brush-”

     The tool was soon in his hand, and Egypt took to brushing away what he realized was more of a chalk then a solid ore. The red, white and black colored man smiled widely as he began to dig with his fingernail where an impression was filled in. 

         “My name- Jayden it’s my name!” he exclaimed, and continued to dust until a thin piece of rock fell away. 

     The two stared at it a moment before looking at each other. Nodding in unison both began to tear away the thin wall, light encroaching on the room hidden from them as the hole turned into an archway. Taking a lantern, Egypt stepped in, paying no mind to the warnings that played through his mind, ever so carefully taught by his father. His curious eyes softened at the sight before him.

     Taking another lantern to place on the opposite wall, a woman laid on a stone slab, carefully etched into with watery designs of the Nile. She glittered gold, every detail of her body having been painted over by the heavy and valuable substance. The clothes she wore, untouched for years, still held their white color, perhaps mildly tanned by the dust and dirt. Egypt ran a hand down her smooth, cold arm, his attention crossing her face. So intricately painted was she, that each eyelash could be counted, and the creases in her lips felt. In her golden fingers lay woven a beaded white Lotus flower, never to wilt or fade. Her hair, braided to lay over her chest and reaching down to her stomach, not only was beautifully painted gold, but held beads, blue and green, neatly woven like a fine silk. Her feet were bare, aside from a single ring that rested on a toe. 

     Behind her on the above wall rested a qoute. Egypt read it, his eyes blinded with tears. Professor Jayden smiled up at him as he examined the body, only to frown.

         “What is it Egypt?”

         “Do you know what happens to a human female if she gives birth to a countryhuman?” He asked cryptically.

         “Uh-well no… very few have.”

         “This carving reads as this woman’s death date. My birth.” Egypt held in a sob as he turned to look at the human woman that carried him, who never was able to meet him, watch him grow, “My father’s prize possession was my mother.” he gave a choked laugh, “When a human woman gives birth to a countryhuman, they die, because it takes an entire people to fuel a Country. I had none.” 

He fell to his knees, placing his head against her cold one as he apologized for killing her. For taking her away from his father. He was told that his birth was something to celebrate, but he always knew that it was a day of mourning too.

         “Greif is what killed my father,” he hiccuped, “not the changing times.”

     The two left well after nightfall, having activated one of the hidden dangers that sealed off the passages forever. Egypt wasn’t going to disturb his father’s peace, by disturbing his mother’s. He wasn’t going to flaunt her beauty, just as his father instructed.

(Just thought it was cute and kinda crushing)