Chapter Four:
At Long Last
To find...a little cream ball of fluff curled up on the porch. It appeared to be sleeping. Italy let out a surprised exclamation in his language and stepped up to the little dog...Poochi. He bent down and gently lifted the puppy into his arms, rubbing his nose against the puppy’s. Everyone stood still in shock, trying to grasp what just happened. Then Austria grinned and turned around, chuckling. “I guess we came to the right place.” He said happily, making China laugh and fold his arms, nodding. Austria turned to Italy, who was nuzzling the found dog as if it were his own. He cooed softly about how much Japan was worried about him. And, Poochi, hearing his owner’s name mentioned, folded his ears back on his head.
“Shh...” Italy said, smiling. “It’s alright, you’ll see him soon. So, you were here all along, huh...?” at the question, the dog yipped and wagged his tail excitedly, looking at Austria’s hand which held the bag of orange chicken. Italy noticed this and gently set Poochi down, petting his head. Austria got the chicken out, scowling at how it felt, and dropped it in front of the dog. He grabbed a handkerchief from his breast pocket and wipes his fingers. Italy giggled and allowed the hungry dog to eat the food. He ate slowly, it almost seemed...polite, in a way. Just like his owner, Italy thought with a giggle. As soon as the pup finished eating, the Italian picked him up in his arms and nuzzled their noses together again, earning a few licks from the excited little animal.
“You...have no idea,” Taiwan spoke up, smiling with cloudy eyes. “Just...no idea how happy Japan will be...he loves Poochi like he were his family.” She reached out her hand and stroked the dog’s head softly. “And...” she continued, twirling some hair around her finger. “You could never guess how...much he smiled when Poochi was around...when he was a child.” She wiped her eye. “I want Japan to be happy...always...and the greatest gift you could give him is by saying that you’ve found his puppy...”
Italy looked at Taiwan, eyes opening wide at the sentiment. He felt his eyes sting just a little, then rested his gaze on Poochi, who was still snuggled close to him in his arms, looking around contentedly. The Italian smiled warmly and turned, walking off the porch. He stopped, turning around, eyes still open, and grinned. “Grazie...to you all. I’m going to make my friend happy.” And with that, he exited China’s property. Austria tailed him, waving to the others, then disappeared into the bamboo grove.
“What was that about?” asked South Korea to Taiwan. “I never knew you cared so much for Japan like that.” He said slowly, narrowing his eyes at her and smiling knowingly. She flinched, brown eyes flickering to the floor. She mumbled something about him being her very good friend...and both Korea and China both heard her say “if not that, then something more.” Very quietly.
“Shall we get back to practice?” she added in hastily after a moment’s pause. The two boys nodded and the trio returned to the other room.
~~~
Germany, Austria, and Hungary, meanwhile, were standing outside England’s house and waiting for him to answer the door. Hungary had a bored look on her face; they had been told a while ago England was busy by one of his butlers. He would personally escort the trio inside once he was done with whatever he was doing. Germany looked around impatiently, slicking his hair back and sighing, noticing Japan’s downtrodden expression...it looked like he had been through the worst tragedy in centuries. Japan put a hand over his face and breathed in slowly through his nose. He then put a hand over his stomach and let it linger there, growing a very unpleased look on his face. Germany lifted a brow and calmly asked what was wrong.
“Stomach ache...” responded Japan in a mumble that was barely audible. He sighed and looked up at the sky, fixing his dark brown eyes on a puffy cloud. He felt a little twinge of sorrow in his heart, and he quickly looked away, stifling another deep, shaky breath. Hungary reaches over and patted his shoulder soothingly, smiling.
“Don’t worry,” she began “It won’t be long before--” as she spoke, the door was suddenly opened by England. His bushy eyebrows were lowered into an expression of annoyance as he glanced at the three countries at his doorstep. His eyes rested for an especially long time on Japan, who was staring at him hopefully.
“Guten tag, England.” Germany said, taking a small step forward. “Ve were looking for Japan’s dog, you see, and--”
“HA!” cackled England half-heartedly. “Germany, I’m sure you understand that I don’t have time to waste on some lost little dog. I presume you think I’m not a very busy man?”
“Vell--”
“I am! Understand? And nor have I seen your dog, Japan.” England shrugged and tossed his head defiantly, snorting a little. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I think I must be go--”
“Wait a minute!” exclaimed Hungary, an angry look crossing her face. Her green eyes flashed as she took a step towards England, making the latter stare her up and down, sizing her up. “Please, England...” Hungary said calmly, “Can’t you at least ask your servants if they have seen a dog that looks like Poochi?” she pleaded, the look in her eye provoking England to seriously consider this idea. She looked very distressed, almost distressed as Japan himself.
“Well, I suppose I could...do you that little favor.” The British man turned and hastily retreated into his house, ringing a bell on the wall. Two maids dashed out of a room to the left, one having soot all over her face. One was carrying a tray with a teapot and two cups on it, along with some napkins. She looked somewhat irritated her work had been interrupted, but did not argue the point to her master. She knew very well of his temper. Just then, about four butlers filed into the main hallway and lined up. England, nodding in approval, began to pace back and forth. He asked them if they had seen what looked like a little off-white creampuff darting around the area. Each one said no.
Sighing, the country turned back to the door. His bushy eyebrows lowered so low over his emerald eyes sent the three nations a simple fact: he couldn’t and wouldn’t help anymore, so it was time for them to leave. Hungary said a hasty farewell and escorted the boys off England’s property. Once outside, she muttered to herself how rude and unhelpful he was. Germany echoed her sentiments internally, though he didn’t say so. Japan wasn’t paying attention; he was anxiously scanning the fields for Poochi. Eventually, the trio came to Russia’s house.
And you know a place is intimidating when even Germany hesitates to get close to it. After a few moments, he finally took a few strides forward and cleared his throat, motioning for a nervous Hungary and a deadpanned Japan to follow. She walked after him, but Japan didn’t move. His eyes flickered around the peaceful looking yard which had a few splotches of snow here and there. He let out a tiny sigh and followed his two friends to Russia’s doorstep. Germany put his finger on the doorbell and an eerie ringing sound was heard inside. Hungary swallowed and, seeming to get it from hammerspace, whipped out her frying pan cautiously. Germany, amused, smiled just a bit and waited.
The door was opened slowly by a shaky looking girl with short blond hair and a trembling hand. Her blue eyes went wide at seeing the gathered countries. She cowered slightly behind the door and squeaked out a “Hello...” in a heavy Russian accent. Germany nodded to her, letting his gaze wander past her to look inside.
“Ve were wondering if it would be possible to speak to Russia...” he said slowly, looking back at her.
“Well, actually,” Hungary said, smiling. “We believe, perhaps, you or Belarus could--”
“Oh, she’s in a very bad mood.” Said the girl, opening the door farther. “Russia...umm...refused to...er—well, nevermind. Maybe I could help you, da?” she came into full view, smiling now. Everyone had to admit she looked...pretty in a weird way. Germany found himself staring, provoking Hungary to give him a tiny shove to snap him out of it. He shook his head and straightened up.
“Actually, you might be able to help us. Ve were wondering if you had, by chance, seen Japan’s dog, Poochi. He’s kind of small and furry...and white...with black eyes and--”
“Ukraine!” came a voice from behind. The girl jumped a little, wheeling around, and the door lurched against the wall from the sudden thrust. She relaxed a considerable amount when she saw her brother, standing in the hallway, in front of her. “Why didn’t you tell me we had guests, sister?” he said, grinning at his callers. “Hello Hungary...Japan, Germany. Want to come in, da?”
Hungary inhaled sharply and slowly shook her head. Germany, undaunted by Russia, shook his head calmly and looked him in the eye. The Russian stared back, smiling cheerfully, and took a few steps forward until he was standing next to Ukraine, his older sister. She, looking comforted, leaned back a little bit in relaxation.
“Well?” inquired Russia.
Germany hesitated, glancing at Japan. “Nein, I’m sorry...ve have somewhere to be.” he said non-too-apologetically. He was actually relieved he had an excuse not to go inside. For, he hadn’t forgotten, he was to meet Italy in a little while. He shifted nervously when he saw Russia’s expression. It was more than just disappointed, it was...somehow menacing. Japan just stared at him without a trace of emotion as he always did. He only feared Russia when he got too close...and at the present, he was at just the right distance. Hungary tried to hide the fact she was nervous, for she tried to maintain her “tough girl” disposition to the other two by her side. Calmly, she nodded her agreement to Germany’s statement.
Russia choked out a slightly irritated-sounding “Fine.” And he then smiled just like before. This made Hungary jump a little...how quickly his temperament could change like that; it seemed creepy. His smile made the three feel oddly relaxed, however. Even Ukraine smiled along with him. “Now,” he said, resuming the conversation, “What brings you here?”
Germany explained the situation, motioning to Japan from time to time. He didn’t need to emphasize how upset he was, for Russia and Ukraine understood how he must feel. At the end of the explanation, both of the siblings looked distraught. Russia gazed at Japan with sadness in his violet eyes. He finally closed his eyes and nodded. “I saw Poochi...somewhere by China’s, I believe.” He reported, smiling. “I wish you the best of luck, da.”
Japan’s eyes seemed to brighten at these words, and he stared Russia square in the face. For a few moments, he just did so. Then finally, he choked out a very relieved “Arigato”...then he sighed, feeling all that weight he had been carrying since yesterday leave him. He bowed swiftly and then turned around, beginning to walk away. Germany and Hungary smiled at each other, and then turned to Russia and Ukraine. The siblings, in turn, smiled back. Russia nodded a goodbye while Ukraine waved. Then the two visitors—following Japan carefully—hurried away.
On the way, Japan couldn’t help but feel a twinge of happiness. He walked fast, but wanted to avoid running; so he kept his pace steady, for the most part. Hungary ran ahead a little, but for the most part kept next to Japan and Germany. Her green eyes kept looking around the area, until they rested on two characters coming toward them. She grinned suddenly and grabbed Japan’s hand, at which he flinched. He stopped, as did Germany, and looked at her with a raised eyebrow. She pointed ahead and the two looked.
Japan’s heart nearly stopped when he could make out the forms of Italy and Austria...and the foremost was carrying a little white bundle. Giving a little cry, Japan wrenched his hand away from Hungary’s grasp so suddenly she almost lost her balance. She, however, smiled widely at Japan when he started to run at Italy eagerly. He stopped not three feet in front of his friend. As soon as he laid eyes on Poochi, his eyes clouded up with tears and he reached out his hands, mumbling some words in Japanese. Italy smiled at him and gently gave him the dog, at which Japan nestled his face into the pup’s fur and dropped to his knees on the ground. Sighing, he kept on nuzzling Poochi. The dog, in turn, licked his master’s cheek over and over, tail wagging vigorously.
Hungary and Germany wandered over, Germany staring in awe at Austria and Italy...he had honestly expected to be the one who found Poochi in the end. But, this was not the case as matters looked now. The German smiled just a little bit and gently put his hand on Japan’s shoulder. The latter looked startled at the sudden touch, and looked up at Germany with tear-stained cheeks. His little puppy licked away the tears and yipped happily, snuggling into Japan’s (still very dirty) uniform. Germany reaches over and petted the puppy on the head. Japan finally stood up, kissing the dog’s head. He looked from Austria to Hungary...to Italy, then Germany. Then continued the cycle a few times. Finally, he inhaled and spoke.
“Arigato...thank you...I could not have asked anything more.” He said slowly, cracking a small smile. The gathered countries nodded their elation, and Japan gently set Poochi down, letting his hand linger on the dog’s head for a moment or two. He then stood up straight. Poochi sniffed the ground, and then looked in a direction, perking his tiny ears. Italy jumped a little, wondering if he were to run off again, and unfortunately...
He was right. Poochi made a beeline for the west, making Japan cry out and run after him. Italy followed suit, provoking the other three to do the same. Hungary whipped out her frying pan in case of danger, while Germany kept a hand on his rifle. Japan ran the fastest, which was a bit shocking for them all. Poochi’s trail went into a small ditch, then up the bank. Japan ran after, but at sliding into the ditch, he succeeded in getting his uniform a mess. Normally he would go nuts, but this time he didn’t care in the slightest. He kept trailing Poochi, but stopped in his tracks when he saw what was at the top of the slope. His brown eyes went wide and his hands clenched.
What lay before his eyes was...it seemed impossible, really. A grove of cherry blossom trees stood there. Memories of that terrible dream flashed through the nation’s mind, and he slowed his pace to a walk. He hesitantly came closer to Poochi, who was sitting next to one of the trees. Someone was sitting next to him, patting his head. It was hard to distinguish who the figure was, but as Japan drew nearer, his shock grew.
Taiwan was sitting at the base of the tree, scratching Poochi’s head. She giggled at the ball of fur and then turned to look at Japan. Her eyes widened considerably at seeing him there. He looked like a mess; his white uniform had numerous dirt stains on it and his hair was going in separate directions...but what she felt a pang at her heart at most was the expression on his face. He looked distraught, tired, confused...and heartbroken all at the same time. He gently kneeled down in front of Taiwan and Poochi, noticing he was there, yipped and ran over to him, jumping on the Japanese and licking his face. Japan kept an eye on Taiwan, petting his dog soothingly. She stared back at him, and an almost...shy expression came over her features. Smiling, she sat up and crawled closer to Poochi, gently petting his back and staring at Japan. As it turned out, he was the first one to speak. His voice was very quiet, yet audible, since Taiwan was used to hearing him speak in that manner. As he spoke, a very soft smile came to his lips.
“So, he likes you...”
Taiwan looked a little confused at the question...of course he liked her, why would he be here if he didn’t? She, however, nodded and smiled back at Japan. “Earlier...” she said, “He was at China’s house when me and Korea were there doing music practice. Italy told us how much you missed him and...” she rested her gaze on Japan’s puppy, cradled in his arms once again. “Of course, I knew you did. When we were young, how you always used to play with Poochi...it was so sweet.”
Japan deadpanned again and looked down at Poochi, petting his head. He thought of what to say in reply...and finally it came to him. “I think,” he said very slowly, “That Poochi did this for...” he looked at her, still with a blank expression. “For us. The both of us.”
“What do you mean?”
“I mean...” continued Japan, smiling slowly. “That I finally understand. Why Poochi ran off was to be at China’s...where you were. I was intended to follow him. And then, since he came here...I believe he wants...” the Japanese paused, looking down. Perhaps he had said too much. He wasn’t one for admitting these kinds of things, but he believed there really was a purpose why, at the end of the trail, Taiwan was there. In front of him...in all her kindness and sweetness.
She finally grinned widely and burst into Japan with a hug, startling him. He let out a surprised exclamation as she hugged him tight. She was, however, mindful of the puppy in his arms and gave him breathing room. Japan’s face turned a deep scarlet color but he let her hug him, not wanting to push her away...it felt weird, but he could safely admit that he...
He liked it. So, all along, there was a hidden reason why that dream had come to him. Taiwan was the biggest cherry blossom fanatic around, why didn’t he think of it before? Poochi had run off because he must have sensed that...Japan did have feelings for her. And Japan hadn’t realized it until now...but Taiwan somehow made him feel...happy inside. He secretly wished he could tell her how he felt, but he didn’t know the right words to express it. He always knew she had looked up to him, but not in that—very special—way.
“Japan?” Taiwan muttered. “I’d like to tell you that...” she pulled away from the hug to stare him in the eye, making both of their hearts flutter. She brushed some hair out of her face and put her hand on Japan’s own, smiling. “I have always viewed you as...a sort of mentor. You’re smart and kind and very caring. And ever since we were children, I’ve always kind of...admired you...please don’t think me too forward but, Japan, I...I...” she paused momentarily, taking a deep breath and then leaning over. “For all the years I’ve known you, I’ve always loved you.” She then kissed his cheek and smiled, closing her eyes. He looked a little startled, but extremely happy. He gently took her hand in his, and looked into her brown eyes.
“And now I see, Taiwan, that I...I love you, too. And thanks to Poochi, we’ve realized it.” He said slowly, smiling. He stared at the little white bundle in his lap, who looked up at him and yipped happily.
“Now there’s an adorable couple! Vee...” said an Italian accent from a ways away. Italy grinned and sighed, still trying to believe his friend had gotten love out of a situation like this. Austria smiled and briefly glanced at Hungary, she managed to catch his gaze and smirked to herself.
“Love can come out of even the bleakest of situations.” Said Austria, turning back to Japan and Taiwan to look at them. They truly did look happy together...the happiest Japan had ever been, Germany thought with a trace of a smile.
“And this is one of the best examples of that.” Said the German slowly. And everyone smiled, knowing that love conquers all...and sometimes all you need is a little push to realize it...no matter where it may come from.
~~~The End~~~
