The desserts looked delicious, they smelled decadent, and yet Finland who was a fan of sweets could hardly even stomach the smell. He remembered when these very walls were splattered in blood. He could smell the burning of wood, of flesh, of hair. If he closed his eyes he could see the flames still dancing and the barrage of gunfire, his among them. He almost dropped his glass as a security soldier ran into him. The man said something in German, which had Finland immediately cursing back in the same language. The soldier either didn’t care or couldn’t be bothered to listen to the short, unassuming country in his charcoal dress uniform. Finland turned from the dessert table, but a glance around the room was only a sea of bodies he couldn’t quite see over. He wasn’t hungry and he wasn’t thirsty. His stomach was rolling in nausea instead. He’d never wanted to come back here. He didn’t want a reminder of the outcome he’d help bring about. How could have an alliance with Germany have gone so very wrong.
To any onlooker Tino looked if nothing else lost or curious, but what they didn’t see was just how uncomfortable he was. He’d paced in his home for hours balancing the reasons he should come with all the reasons he didn’t want to, and among them was just where Germany had decided to host the peace negotiations. The Kremlin Senate was blatant, arrogant, absolutely unnecessary! Everyone knew he’d conquered Russia, he didn’t need to rub it in, but here he was doing just that. Yet that wasn’t a huge reason, a bigger one was not wanting to see Ivan. They’d fought yes, and Ivan had wanted to conquer him, but now that he’d helped Germany do the same to the nation he had once so reviled…He wouldn’t ever wish this on his worst enemy. He knew what it was like to be lorded over and if that Lord was the Fascist German…It was a sentence that ironic and had he been a country that entertain himself with poetic justice he could have enjoyed it, but he wasn’t. Finland was not a country that enjoyed war. He’d wanted peace. All he’d wanted in the end was for Russia to back off.
Tino slid his hands in his pockets and took a breath to try and steady the quiver inside he realized was his heart. He closed his eyes and tried to imagine the room opening, not closing in on him. He could hear the clipped syllables of German in his head.
His eyes snapped opened and that’s when he saw him.
He didn’t see Ludwig or Arthur at his side. He didn’t see Ivan or the other country who had joined the discussion. All he saw was him.
“Ruotsi!”
The word was out of his mouth before he knew it. He ran towards Berwald who he saw leaning against the wall. Whatever conversation he’d interrupted, he didn’t care. Let them call him rude, but Berwald being there was all he needed to drown the guilt and anxiety if only for a moment.
If he could just be folded in Sweden’s arms everything would feel right again.
His eyes shone with unshed tears as he rushed through the spaces between the gathered nations around Berwald. He leapt and wrapped his arms around his neck.
“Ruotsi,” he said breathlessly, “olen kaivannut sinua.” He pulled him down and pressed his mouth to his. He kissed him like he’d not seen him in the last six years.
There was something almost pathetic, Matthew thought, about this whole affair, about the nations of the Axis practically holding a party in order to wave a banner over their victory. Something pathetic and attention seeking and loud, really, about Germany inviting them all to Russia's capital to sit down and gloat over their victory. Oh, he wouldn't say it out loud, and oh, he doubted everyone agreed, but it was the truth- there was a certain insecurity in having to show off, and if anything was showing off, it was inviting your allies and near-foes to gaze upon your captured cities.
God, and people accused Alfred of being tacky.
He wasn't among the conquering heroes, not at this affair. He didn't even technically have much to do. He'd just asked to come. Lord knows why he did that, but Alfred had allowed him to, so here he was. He supposed he just wanted to see who, exactly, had the audacity to throw something resembling a party before finishing negotiations with his own eyes. He'd initially expected the whole place to be dour- but no! There were people drinking, there were people treating this like it was any other time to mingle and make connections with others and play the game of politics, and Matthew wasn't certain whether that made him want to laugh or throw up more.
Actually, he was mostly tempted to take the nearest blunt instrument and bash half of these smug faces in, but that wouldn't exactly be politic, would it? Both he and Alfred would get in trouble, and it wasn't time yet. It wasn't time to start the fight all over again. He could wait for that, even as he satisfied himself imagining Kumajiro's claws cutting across the smug, tacky, pathetic blonde German that was throwing the party. This viciousness was almost a new side to him, but it was almost freeing, in a way, to have it constantly running in the back of his head. He wondered if it would go away. He glanced across the room. He caught sight of Great Britain. Something boiled in his chest.
No. No, he rather thought not.
At least he could take satisfaction in knowing that traitorous, abandoning, useless asshole looked absolutely miserable at this "party". Matthew could make him more miserable, but out of everyone here, Matthew knew for a fact that Great Britain was the one person Matthew was not going to be able to smile and be polite to, and unfortunately, he was the good son, and he couldn't afford here, away from the safety that was a continent of just him and his brother, to fail to do that. So, for now, he wouldn't go twist in the knife, however much it was deserved.
Instead of bothering mingling, he mostly just stayed close to Alfred- let the other Nations think that Alfred was keeping a tight leash on him. They both knew that Alfred was the only remotely trustworthy person in this whole building (the only person who wouldn't keep on leaving Matthew behind), and for now, that was enough. Besides- sticking with Alfred was proving to be amusing. Unlike Matthew, Alfred was much less bound by a reputation as the quiet one and a need to bide his time. He could come right out and insult these ridiculous proceedings, and everyone would expect it of him. Matthew his his snort. He also hid his snort as Russia spoke- yes, sticking near Alfred had been a decent choice, even if it meant having to get near Great Britain and it hurt.
And it was like a floodgate had opened. Even Germany was making something vaguely resembling a joke- which, given the heavy-handed nature of today's party, really came as somewhat of a surprise. (This open contempt he felt for just about everyone in his head- it wasn't completely new, but it had never been so open before.) But the person Matthew chose to zero in on at the moment? Russia.
Because Russia, supposedly conquered, wasn't even bothering to pretend to be polite. Ah. Here it was. There was someone else here that was angry too (and Matthew wondered, for a brief moment, if the constant fear that the rug would be pulled out from under him again and the constant anger at a world that would let this happen to him was what Russia had felt all his life, as that would probably explain a lot). Matthew, standing straight behind his brother, as though they'd been allies all along instead of bitter enemies, looked over Russia. Talk about an insult. This whole party was an insult to the man, and the man probably knew it, too. The thing was, unlike Matthew, Russia wasn't trying to pretend this whole thing wasn't a tacky hurrah for a whole bunch of assholes with too much power. That was kind of amusing.
And maybe, at some future point, he could use that- someone who could kind of relate- or at least, someone angry enough to aim at his enemies. But for now, Matthew was going to simply observe. After all, few would notice him watching.
Sweden nodded to confirm when Arthur answered him. They would meet in England then. He hoped that it was clear enough and that he'd follow up on that later. It seemed like after the party England was already immediately occupied, but perhaps that was for the better. The more that he would know going into the conversation that he'd have with Sweden was going to be beneficial for both of them. Berwald had no idea whether this would even be possible, but he was going to have to try. Before he could say anything further to Arthur he had spotted the Russian.
They'd never had good relations, but he couldn't imagine Russia felt as good as he portrayed to the rest of them. He'd seen that smile before, on the battlefield and off of it. Ivan was one of his oldest enemies and he'd be lying if he wasn't thankful that Russia was finally out of the way. That was something he had to thank his cousin for. But all of this parading and even holding this meeting in Moscow seemed like a bit much for even his cousin….Or perhaps he was losing sight of the bigger picture. With as many troubles as Berwald had, he wasn't sure anymore.
Still, Germany's response to the Russian pleased him. Russians were known to do crazy things, he'd fought him before and had seen what he was capable of. Ivan was bitter that his cousin was superior. But Just as he thought Ivan would make the biggest fool out of himself someone loud joined them.
America…
Sweden had little dealings with America up to this point. It seemed like the teenager just wanted to consume everything in his reach. He couldn't blame him for being ambitious. America claimed to be a free nation, if there was some way he could communicate with him, perhaps America could solve his problem. But if he was going to be talking to the American, no doubt his cousin would keep a close eye on him. "Halla, American." Sweden greeted him for lack of anything else to say to his peace comment. America had nothing to mourn here, he'd won on his end of the world.
But up from the crowd and all the animosity around him he heard a sweet sound. His eyes lifted and brightened (to a trained eye). His arms opened even among the crowd that was circled and he welcomed his wife into his arms. The abrupt kiss gave him no reason to refuse him. In that moment it didn't matter who was around and who was watching. Sweden wrapped his arms tightly around him and pulled him into a deep kiss. He grabbed him firmly and dipped him down a bit to further the kiss.
Post by Northern Italy on Jan 3, 2017 20:14:42 GMT -7
Italy was enjoying himself at Germany's party, mostly due to the fact that it was all one big joke. He loved the fact that they were celebrating in what had once been the capital of Communism, a Nazi and Fascist victory. It revealed to all the power of German armed might, capable of crushing the hordes of the communists and he admired this victory and Germany's sense of humor in celebrating in Moscow right in the Kremlin itself. When was the last time Italy had been here? Ah yes, when he had been a small, timid, weak and cross dressing child designing parts of it during the 13th century. Ah the memories... He still remembered crying in fear whenever Russia crept up on him.
Another reason he was enjoying himself was mostly due to the fact that he was not fairing well with the negotiations whatsoever. Germany refused to hand over parts of formerly French Africa, Yugoslavia or Corsica to him, something which infuriated the Italian. With the negotiations ending up poorly for Italy, he no longer cared. He would have to invade Turkey and the unoccupied parts of the Arabian peninsula in that case. Although it wasn't a complete disaster for him, he managed to wrestle all of Somalia from Britain and France other than that he had nothing... It was great to be appreciated as a valued member of the Axis Powers.
With all hope of any further territorial expansion other than Somalia lost, it seemed that Italy would have to just deal with what he had already invaded practically. For Italy the negotiations were over, he had barely expanded compared to Germany or Japan... What an absolute disgrace.
Now he was just enjoying the festivities of this dead party. For any members of his empire that did come, he did not care to keep an eye on them... He would start massacring civilians in their native lands by the thousand if they ran off... The lack of any actual celebrating bored the Italian, he had been to formal occasions before but this was just sad... Where the hell was the energy? Were most of these nations dead on the inside?
Dressed in his usual blue and black military attire in military dress form, he went to the drinks table to pour himself a glass of red wine only to instead take the whole bottle with him along with the glass. He may as well... The results of the negotiations had disappointed him immensely. While walking around the room to spot any ladies worth hitting on he saw the group of nations... Germany, Russia, England, Sweden, America, an Asian nation probably under Japanese rule and... who was that again? He swore he had seen that person before... They seemed like an interesting group to be with for now at least.
However as he was heading for that area, the Asian woman backed away while Finland entered the group. Italy true to his nature, was not very quiet in meeting the group. Holding the bottle to pour into his wine glass, he raised his voice to such a loud volume that the people around him couldn't help but stop and look in the Italian's direction.
"GERMANY! GREAT PARTY YOU HAVE HERE!" The Italian smiled as he advanced on the group, in reality he was far from happy, he had drawn the shortest straw of the five powers. He reached the group just as Finland was getting emotional with Sweden,he didn't care if the group was annoyed... He wanted to mow down everyone in this party for the terrible results of the negotiations.
Chuckling at the two lovers, Italy decided to joke around with the Nordics, "Restrain yourselves you two! At least wait until the party is over for that!" He smiled towards the rest of the group... Evidently one could tell he wasn't happy at all... It was usually the smile he reserved for murderous rampages in Ethiopia or Greece during the war.
Raising his glass to the group he toasted. "Salve gentlemen. To the Axis and for the preservation of the German, American, British, Italian Empires and fascism. Viva Il Duce!" He chuckled, he hoped his allies burned in hell for this betrayal.
Taking a sip from his wine glass he continued, "So how have you gentlemen been? Talking much? Where is Japan? He should be here with his... allies..."
Last Edit: Jan 3, 2017 20:23:28 GMT -7 by Northern Italy
More and more seem to joining the already assembled crowd. From Japan's observation the crowd either began with Sweden or Britain as their body language was the most lax. They are also the two at the center of the gathering. It's a curious gathering, however. From Japan's gathered intelligence, Sweden is usually not one to draw attention to himself. He is much more the listener and observer. It's a respectable trait, though the gathering isn't very amusing. It is political, remaining Japan of the negotiations they're supposed to be taking a break from. He could yawn if it wasn't for the possibility to learn perhaps some bit of Intel he isn't aware of yet.
But then the amusement comes. It comes in a pair first. Russia is first with his bitter smiles, bright eyes, and crooned comment. Japan finds his lips curling in silent laughter even as he presses his front to Vietnam's back. He gently laid a hand on her shoulder and squeezed in reassurance that there is nothing to worry about. He will in fact protect her if anyone attempts anything towards her. This is supposedly an amicable celebration/meeting and anything less would be disrespectful. Then of course there's America.
Alfred, the man who had denied him materials of war, but then again he was embroiled in his own conflict to conquer Canada who he also notes to be close. Japan's eyes slide away when he hears Arthur speak. He guides Vietnam close to the crowd once more and bows his head to England. He does not take the time to pick apart the way his insides swirl and fill with spikes all at once. He instead decides to respond when two things happen.
Finland and Italy. The first is soon in a lip lock with the Swede and the second is just merely loud. And very obviously displeased and bitter. He senses it like a lemon against his tongue, though he smiles.
"I'm here, Feliciano," he said, "there's no need to shout. The crowd was hard to ignore and it made me curious. A pleasure, Arthur, Alfred, Sweden." He lifts his own glass to his lips. "I hope the journey was not too tiring and the refeshments more interesting than the necessary meetings such things as these entail."
Ivan winced when the loud American made his entrance. He preferred America when he was smaller. He was just as loud, but his small size had made his actions adorable. Now, it was merely obnoxious. Admittedly, his relationship with America had been worsening since 1917. America had been born with a silver spoon in his mouth, trapped in his own selfish ambitions. Ivan had hoped to appeal to their past friendship and had asked for assistance against Germany. In the end, he left empty handed, dismissed, insulted, and embarrassed for even suggesting an alliance. The boy’s family feud mattered more than the current tides in Europe. Like father like son because England had given him a similar response a few weeks later. Neither nations interested in fighting Germany, leaving Russia to hold onto Europe.
It shouldn’t have mattered. Ivan should have won the war without them. He should have been strong enough to protect Europe from these fascists pigs, and he wasn’t. He did not know who he was angry with more. England and America for neglecting the true enemy, Germany for betraying him, or himself for not preventing it all.
His smile stayed on his features, but there certainly existed a darkness behind his eyes as he glanced at the American. “Ah da, next time we should do the peace in your Capitol when the Nazi’s invade you!” he said with an innocent joy and clapped his hands together like a child.
He then felt the heavy hand of Germany on his shoulder, and Ivan physically forced his muscles not to tighten and hit the intruding man with his pipe. Ivan did not welcome uninvited physical contact for….many reasons. His jaw locked as he listened to Germany’s response, and chuckled himself, even if it sounded forced. “How do you say it? I do not like to share, da,” he answered, with a hint of his own amusement. He made certain every important record was burned or destroyed, even intelligence and top military generals killed themselves in order to prevent information from falling into the Nazi’s grip. “Besides, fire is pretty,” he shrugged innocently after the hand was removed.
He then saw Finland rush into Sweden’s arms. He pouted ever slightly. Finland had been quite an ungrateful little nation for everything Ivan had given him. “Germany, I will make suggestion,” he said, but did not wait for Germany to answer as he moved closer to Finland. “Since I am part of you, practically inside you now,” he stressed the word for his own personal humor as he came up right behind Finland, “I think Finland should join. It is rather lonely inside of you because most are too afraid to venture in, but Finland is brave da?” He practically husked behind Finland's ear, even as he kissed Sweden.
He didn’t notice the others until Italy started shouting, and Ivan rolled his eyes. He ignored the toast, seeing nothing to toast too. As the glass raised though, he caught sight of Canada. Even in Ivan’s current situation, he felt bad for Canada. He might be invaded by Germany, but at least Ivan wouldn’t be going deaf any time soon.
Arthur’s eyes grazed Alfred when he decided to join the conversation rather loudly, disdain still resting behind his gaze. The fighting between them still felt fresh, and for something that felt terribly inconsequential compared to what had been going on elsewhere in the world. And not for the first time, he wondered if events might have played out differently had the two of them not started fighting over trading agreements. Those problems felt like such drivel now, but there was no changing history. His thoughts were slightly interrupted when Finland ran forward to start showering Sweden with affection. Arthur gave the two a little more room, since he’d previously been standing quite close, giving the pair their nonexistent privacy in the small space where they had all congregated.
He did notice Matthew staying diligently close to Alfred, although his own gaze remained distant and brief. It seemed that Matthew still knew diligence, aside from the obvious bitterness and loathing in his eyes. England had, indeed, thrown him to the wolves, and America was the wolf that unflinchingly devoured him. The world was cruel; family in particular held a special talent in knowing how to make it sting even further.
But, at the moment, England had far greater concerns far closer to his borders. He felt the encroaching silent threat along the horizon; he was old enough, seasoned enough to guess at what would eventually come for him. Despite being one of the five, nestled in an alliance, he knew that one day, a simple alliance wouldn’t be sufficient. He suspected the ultimatum that would eventually demand satisfaction. England wasn’t ready to make that change, a very heavy price. And if he wasn’t ready now, then he knew that he likely would never be ready or willing to pay that price.
So, for the moment, he was distant and civil enough, a stone wall surrounding his reactions and expressions. He failed to lift his own glass to his lips when Italy declared the acrid-lined congratulations, brushing it aside for what it was. Arthur had very little to say for the moment. While his interest faded, his meticulous attention hardly wavered from the others, always vigilant. He only raised an eyebrow slightly when Ivan boldly approached Finland like that in front of everyone, but it wasn’t staggering or new. When was Russia not attempting to take Finland from behind?
It seems that the small grouping of nations that Vietnam has joined has turned into the central gathering point for nation. Well, she couldn't say that for certain as far as numbers are concerned without touring the whole building and seeing if there's a larger group. But if there is, then one thing that she can say for certain is that the possibly theoretical other group is made up of smaller nations. And she can say that because almost all of the largest nations are present.
Now, normally she's not one to feel nervous and intimidated - she's Vietnam, after all - but she's literally never been to a gathering of so many powerful nations before. Nobody ever gathered like this all at once 80 years ago, and even if they did she wasn't getting used to being her own country again - this is certainly jumping right in. Which is why she starts to feel a little overwhelmed when America loudly announces his prescence and then Germany starts talking to him. And then Finland shows up and seems to practically tackle Sweden right in front of everyone - there's a part of her that can all too easily see this nation or that nation becoming offended by something and then the whole gathering falling apart.
Which is the perfect time for Italy to show up and loudly say things that are almost certainly at least a little bit offensive to pretty much everyone present. If they decide to be offended, anyways - she personally wouldn't toast to fascism unless someone tried to force her to, and even then she doesn't have a drink with which to toast - but she's too nervous to even consider that problem at the moment.
Or at least she is until she feels her brother behind her. She doesn't have to turn around to know that it's him - he's the only one that can make her feel so terrified and yet so safe at the same time. The feeling is almost electric... When she feels his hand on her shoulder, she finds her nerves settling almost instantly - she is safe. No matter how big or erratic or insane or morally questionable any of them are, she is safe from every single one of them. Everyone except for Kiku, but as they say: the devil you know...
And a devil Japan is - how else do you describe someone who did what he did to their brother? Not that she's upset by that, because if she's honest with herself she believes that China probably deserved that. Actually, no - there's no 'probably' about it. She may not have taken much pleasure in knowing what had happened, but she can't say that it didn't seem just in her eyes. Their dear eldest brother needed to be knocked down a peg. What's a much larger concern to her is that Japan has become so large and so strong that she's concerned that she can't escape from him. She's going to try anyways, of course, and she managed to get away from China plenty of times in spite of how supposedly stronger than him she was, but Japan is now even stronger still.
She turns around and gives him a happy smile, allowing him to guide her forward again - this time she can be confident. Confident but silent, as she now stands at her brother's side as he greets a few of the others and says the sorts of nice things that one says - her pleasant expression seeming to indicate that she agrees.
Alfred..didn't really like Germany. Out of all the Axis nations, he was the most powerful and therefore the most harmful in Alfred's opinion. However, he did respect the other nation for what he'd accomplished and it appeared that the feeling was mutual. Before Alfred could respond, he heard a shout from Finland that nearly made him lose control of his strength and crush his glass within his hands (though fortunately he was able to stop himself). Not something he really wanted to do, remind a bunch of potential enemies just how strong he was physically. No, he wanted to keep that ace up his sleeve. He knew that Arthur knew as much, but he'd rather be able to catch the rest of the Axis off guard if it came down it..so long as Arthur hadn't blabbed to them already.
He did notice Matthew nearby, though he did not greet the other nation. He did however shoot a quick glance his way to indicate that he was aware of Matthew's presence. But he wasn't about to call the others' attention to Matthew..if they didn't notice him that was their loss. Matthew could, after all, stand back and observe and gather information that others might not notice in the midst of conversation. He'd probably ask Matthew later what he witnessed..if Matthew was willing to share with him, of course.
"And not just anyone can capture a good chunk of Europe like you did. I'd say congratulations are in order." While it was true and Alfred did respect Ludwig militarily for progressing as far as he did..that wasn't Alfred's true reason for praising Ludwig. No, he wanted to draw attention to the current state of affairs. 'Peace'. Yeah right. More like a break between wars. That was how World War I turned out, right? So why not World War II? The Axis Powers were hardly a motley crew with a ton of history between one another. Their group was formed especially for war. Now that that war was over? Alfred didn't think that things would stay calm between them for long.
Alfred wasn't so sure about the situation in Asia, but he knew that Feliciano couldn't be pleased about the situation in Europe. There was a heavy unbalance there between the nations that Germany controlled and the nations that Italy controlled. Also..he couldn't help but notice that Italy praised only four empires. He wondered if this was because Italy was unaware of Japan's presence, or if this said something about Italy's feelings toward Japan. He'd definitely look into that one later on as well.
The younger nation chuckled when Kiku brought up refreshments. "The refreshments are great! They're definitely the best part of this shindig." Food. Of course. He did enjoy the food, but he was deliberately playing up his interest in the food because it was expected of him to do so and he'd rather be underestimated. He plastered a carefree grin on his face while he continued to observe the others, popping a piece of cheese into his mouth.
He arched an eyebrow at Russia's words, though he could not ignore the fact that..he hated to say it..Russia had a point. Russia had been royally screwed over and Alfred could hardly blame him for being upset. Alfred wasn't a fan of communism but had he not been busy with England? Well, things might have been a little bit different. Even now Alfred was beginning to wish that things were different..though that just meant that he might have to grease the wheels himself
A shout captures Germany's attention, and he sees that Finland has joined the group - good. He hadn't noticed him around earlier in the day and had hoped that he'd come. Of course, he doesn't especially appreciate the way that he greets Sweden. Well, not so much the way as the energy level, which doesn't seem to be appropriate for this gathering. And if Sweden's response was just a touch more enthusiastic, he'd feel obliged to remind them that they were in public. But as it is, he's quick to simply move on to other concerns.
His focus returns to America, who he wasn't quite finished speaking with. He frowns just slightly at the compliment that he's given, because he wouldn't phrase it that way, but he's quick to shrug in response, adding, "Merely reclaiming that vich vas vrongfully taken, and vrongfully divided, and then defending it from those vho objected - vho vere the ones vho took and divided to begin vith. ...Some of them, anyvay." Which is said with remarkable calmness and lightness given the fact that this is Germany talking about what was done at the end of the first world war, which pretty much everyone knows that he couldn't be more angry about. That's almost the entire reason why he started the war in Europe, after all, and in fact what he just described was exactly what he did from his perspective. Or at least the jist of it - there was also some punishing of unfaithful Axis members in there and other little things like that.
Of course, America and England are just as responsible for the situation Germany was left in as anyone else. Then again, based upon the fact that Germany wanted England to join the Axis even more than England did and is also not that hostile to America now, he doesn't seem to be showing much if any lingering anger toward either of them for some reason. Having said that, he then notices that there's another nation standing near America who looks remarkably similar, though he can't recall seeing him before...
He doesn't wonder about that for too long, though, because of course Russia is speaking to him and generally expecting his attention. However, most of what he's saying and doing is nothing that he considers worthy of his attention or a response. In fact, though he does comment it's not directly upon Russia's words. "If you provoke Finland, I vill have you restrained," he informs him. He can't have his territories going around and offending nations that he's trying to establish better ties with, after all. Which was his own idea, thank you - the last person that he needs advice from right now is the loser of the war.
But before he can elaborate on that threat, his thought is interrupted by Italy, who has apparently spotted him. "It is a peace conference, not a party," he calmly corrects him. Though the distinction between the two seems to be rather small for the Italian. Other than that, he doesn't have much to say to his friend at the moment - not with so many other things vying for his attention. He couldn't very well miss the toast, though, which he simply nods to because he doesn't have a drink in his hand. But when Italy asks where Japan is, Germany gently but firmly grabs Italy's shoulder and turns him so that he's facing Japan - that more than adequately answers the question.
Speaking of Japan, though Germany knew that the asian had been observing the group for quite some time already, now that he sees him actually approaching he gives his ally an acknowledging nod before he returns his attention to what he actually should be focused on - keeping an eye on Russia.
Post by Northern Italy on Jan 8, 2017 18:39:58 GMT -7
It seemed that his arrival or toast was neither appreciated or taken well. What could you do when most of the group that had formed were pitiful democracies? Thankfully, Germany at least acknowledged the great occasion that was present today, historians would call it: The 1945, Peace of Moscow,known for it's sombre atmosphere and its political message to the world, that in the capital of what had once been the seat of the Bolshevik revolution, Fascism celebrated ultimate victory against the "Red Menace". The democracies had hated Communism before Fascism had ever been conceived and yet? There was no celebration, no hint of joy... And he had been told that America was known for partying.
This was supposed to be a break from geopolitics, yet this group still talked of geopolitics. Did these nations have no lives outside of work? While that may be undoubtedly true, Italy firmly believed that despite their role as the representative of a nation, it was not their sole purpose in life. Couldn't they have a normal conversation?
His partner Germany could be quite hilarious at times. He stresses this was a peace conference, yet how can this be a peace when the 5 Powers are vying for world domination, economically, technologically or militarily. Italy did not have a faith that the 5 Powers would avoid military confrontation with a simple piece of paper. That's what those fools England, America and France thought in Versailles, they thought that they could make sure Germany stayed weak, they thought they could simply dismiss the demands of Japan and himself. Thus they sealed the events of the world today. Their foolish hopes for peace, were nothing but pure fiction and it was hilarious how they thought that something like this wouldn't happen... Here they stood only 26 years later and the world was mostly under the hegemony of those betrayed by that damn treaty: Germany, Japan and Italy himself...
Italy placed his wine glass and wine bottle on the table, only to look up and flinch when Germany firmly grabbed his shoulder. He was turned around and saw the approaching Japan.
"Ve~ Japan! Good evening! I was so worried that you wouldn't turn up to our little group!"
He made room for his friend while winking at the Asian nation Japan guided towards the group. Turning around to the group once more to get at least a conversation going, Italy tried to get them to speak of a subject that didn't involve their jobs...
"So good friends of mine! I guess with the war done the World Cup is back on! Hopefully when the next host is decided the Azzurri can win their third world cup in a row! Forza Italia!!!"
Post by Southern Italy on Jan 10, 2017 7:01:50 GMT -7
Lovino couldn't stand the fact he was here in Moscow, and the day just got worse when he was headed for the table of drinks and his brother just took the wine bottle right out of his grasp before he could even make it to the furniture. A scowl was placed on his face at it, and awkwardly his raised arm dropped at his side again in deathly silence. He wasn't going to ask his brother for some of the alcohol; oh no no, that wouldn't do. If anything he wanted to avoid talking to the Fascist creep his brother had become if at all possible.
So, he just sighed deeply and reached up to his aching cheek. He tried to cover it up with the scarf before he walked into the building, but once in the heated room he couldn't help but to huff out a small breath and free himself of the knitted accessory to allow himself some limited cool air. The bruise was dark purple the night before, and this morning it seemed to be turning more in dark brown, or orange, in color, to his delight, but Lovino was self conscious of people being able to see it still. Another argument that broke out with his brother didn't end well; it never did at this point really, and this time was no different. He had decided to keep silent when his brother bitched and moaned in complaint about the negotiations regarding the split of territory all around as well, as speaking up when the younger brother was obviously irritated wouldn't fair well for the elder, and he knew it quite well by this point.
Honestly, he didn't even know why he was even here to begin with. This peace conference, as he was told it was, didn't seem to be something that was needed or for Lovino himself to be at. In reality, he had no idea what was even happening between the empires and their deals, he just sat back and let things happen on their own. Sure there was a whole lot he wanted to speak up about, but he knew better than to do so. He wasn't going to put Naples in danger, as his brother had threatened would happen. So really, Lovino was just here to listen to whatever Feliciano would bargain out with the others, and that certainly was nothing entertaining. If anything, it was a terrifying occurrence, having to witness exactly what the younger of the two would be pissed about tonight after this was all over.
Giving up on the idea of getting himself drunk to hopefully not remember any of this happening in the first place, Lovino sighed and looked around to study the groups. Each one seemed to include at least one person Lovino rather avoided speaking to, and that was enough to make the Italian just stay back, keeping his mouth shut. He hoped it all came to an end as soon as possible so he could just go home, hopefully lock himself in his room and call it a night. He already knew what Feliciano was going to be irritated about tonight, there was no need to have to sit and wait for the time of it to blow up in his face.
"Tsk..." Clicking his tongue in annoyance of it all, the brunet leaned up against the nearest wall he could find, crossing his arms and keeping distance. How to pass this boredom time? Was there anyone he could actually talk to without having to interact with people he rather avoided?
Last Edit: Jan 25, 2017 5:11:37 GMT -7 by Southern Italy
Peace conference, party, it could have been the war front or some tense encampment for all Finland found himself caring. The moment he was enveloped in Sweden's arms and pressed against the warmth of him, Tino was lost to the world. The conference went radio silent and all that mattered was Berwald. Berwald whose mouth was moving with his and who dipped him only to deepen the kiss. And people call Sweden frightening.
He remembered when they'd escaped Poland's house—It was the first time since they'd been children that he'd seen Sweden and Berwald was terrifying at least at first. His stoicism, his way of speaking, and then he'd just called him his wife as if he didn't have a choice. Tino had been unsure of this man he'd met, but he soon saw that underneath the stone there was fire. Berwald was sweet, giving, and everything he did for Finland was to give him comfort and care. His direct speech had meaning, but all in all Berwald was just a completely awkward nation. Tino fell in love with him as fast as he'd feared him and as for being his wife? That was Sweden expressing his interest and yes, Tino was happy to be his wife.
He messed up Sweden's hair with his fingers as he accepted his deeper kisses with gusto. Nothing could ruin this moment. Nothing would take his love away or break it. Not Russia, not Germany, not even Germany's boss. His mood was instantly lightened.
Of course, they couldn't stay in their own world forever. He was brought back by Russia's hushed and ominous words, but if Russia wanted to make his skin crawl he'd have had to catch him before he was freshly kissed by his husband.
Flush and smiling, Tino leaned his head back mouth still close to Sweden's. He hummed and then nodded to Germany's warning. "Mhm, wouldn't want to provoke another attack to your vital regions...you don't have anything else to burn this time."
He turned his head and brushed his lips to Sweden's jaw. "Can I come to your room after the negotiations? We have a lot to discuss," he ran a finger over Berwald's ear. "Preferably naked in a bed." He didn’t care about America, Russia, Germany, or anyone else who had by then also joined them. These negotiations would not damn him any more than he already was.
After all, he was already considering joining the Reich out of nothing more than an inevitable choice either way.
Whether it was good behavior or just the simple fact that the entire world seemed to be present for this occasion, Natalya was permitted to attend the end of war 'festivities'. She was only attending because she saw very little other opportunity to interact with the rest of the world so long as she and her family were under the control of the German Reich. It took a lot of effort to make herself look somewhat presentable, but she did not want to showcase just how terrible she was feeling as of late - Or how many new scars she'd obtained at German hands in less than a decade. This was all a grand show after all, was it not? And Natalya still had to bide her time until she could act. Because she still refused to accept that it wasn't a matter of when anymore but if.
Natalya was spending most of her time observing the proceedings. There was much to be gathered from observation, and she like many others noted that the Axis might not remain as cohesive of a unit as they were during the war now that there was no war to bind them together. Italy seemed like the weakest link, both in terms of actual strength as well as loyalty. And honestly she could not blame him if he struck out on his own. In fact, it would increase her respect for him..though he would have to play his cards right, of course.
She took a sip of wine as she made her way over to her brother. "Hello brother," she murmured. She had the opportunity to say hello to her brother and she would make the best of it. She knew that she couldn't get away with saying what she wanted to say to Ivan, owing to Ludwig likely watching their actions like a hawk, but he had to expect that she would want to talk to her brother given the opportunity. He was her brother after all, and she hadn't seen him in a while.
Bringing her wine glass to her lips once more to hide her face, she smirked behind the glass as Ivan made it no secret how he felt about what Ludwig was doing. Despite her brother being in a terrible position, he was in a better position than she was and could thus..get away with what he was saying much better than she ever would be able to. He was saying what she was thinking though, and she absolutely relished it. Oh when the time came to put Ludwig back into his place, to strike back..
Last Edit: Jan 21, 2017 20:41:27 GMT -7 by Deleted
There's a smell of stale fear And it's reeking from our skins The drinking never stops, because The drinks absolve our sins We sit and grow roots into the floor What are we waiting for?
There were times when Snežana felt almost as if she were a ghost.
It was a strange feeling, an unreal sort of detachment from everything around her, when her hopelessness and anger folded back around on themselves to produce an eerie calm. She could survey the room calmly, the look on her face expressing nothing in particular, studying each face in turn, because she felt the terrible invulnerability of the one who has nothing left to lose. If she was already dead, and she felt as if she might be, then it didn't really matter what she saw. If her fate was sealed, and she had accepted that it probably was, then idle curiosity was really the only reaction left that she hadn't already exhausted.
The choice of venue for this meeting felt like a distant ache in her heart. Snežana loved her cousins to the north very much, and she couldn't imagine that Germany's calculations hadn't factored in the chance to humiliate those same cousins as a positive reason to be here. From the place she had taken up at the edge of the room, she could see Ivan; he didn't precisely look comfortable with the situation, and Snežana was not remotely surprised to see it. Natalya, another dear cousin, approached the Russian; Snežana might have liked to go speak with the two of them, but for the moment she would let them have some time to themselves. They looked like they sorely needed a bit of sibling time, after all.
Germany and Italy were talking. They were the ones who were going to decide her fate, she was sure. Japan and England probably didn't care one way or the other. If she hadn't been too exhausted and detached, Snežana might have tried to wander over and listen in on what they were saying--not that Italy was precisely making it difficult to overhear. But as it was, she remained near the wall, sipping occasionally from the glass of wine in her hand without either noticing the taste nor feeling any effect from the alcohol.
Huh. South Italy--Lovino, if she wanted to use his human name--was doing much the same thing she was. That was just an observation, though. Snežana toyed with the idea of going over to talk to him, but she doubted it would entertain either of them overmuch. Maybe some other time.
In the end, she remained by the wall, watching everything but keeping her opinion of what she saw to herself.