My Dark Heart (2/?)
Title: My Dark Heart
Author: parable91
Rating: PG
Character(s)/Pairing(s): America, Japan, Taiwan
Warnings: Creepiness from America
Summary: Something in America has changed. He returns to power a changed nation. A nation who wants to share his perfect vision for a new world with everyone, even if it means forcing them to become one with him.
__________________
Ch. 2 First
He’d done it. China had fallen for his bluff. America took off his glasses and wiped them off with his shirt before setting them back on his nose. He had to be sure he was seeing this correctly.
But why can’t I hear anything? Oh, right. The TV was muted. America grabbed the remote and turned on the volume full blast.
“A historical event to be sure. One that many of us thought this century would pass without seeing.” The anchorwoman was saying, “The official treaty between China and Taiwan will be signed in exactly two hours. At which point the two will officially recognize each other as sovereign nations. Officials say…”
America muted it again as he fell back in his chair, eyes never leaving the screen. The entire room was silent save for the gentle hum of the overhead fan and the ship was large enough to feel like everything was completely still. For a moment he just sat there comprehending what he had just seen. He shouldn’t be this surprised. It had been announced a week ago, and America had already known by then what China would do. Still, for it to actually happen, to see it live was something else. It was really happening. It was really really happening. A small chuckle escaped him, then another, and then he completely busted up.
“Yes! Yes!” he shouted, “Woohoo!” America spun his chair around and threw his arms up. “Who’s the paper tiger now, China?” he laughed at the TV.
A hard rap at the door. “Sir? Are you alright?” the marine outside asked.
America quickly regained his composure. “Yeah, I’m fine.” he called back. He shook his head in self-admonishment. Get a grip, he told himself, let’s see this through first, then we can celebrate.
Indeed, it would be another couple of hours before he reached his first destination. Theoretically anything could happen in that time. What if Japan and Taiwan got wind of what he was planning to do? What if China changed his mind? Concern flickered across America’s face. That second thought worried him most of all.
America looked down at the map on his desk, his eyes bringing him over to the East China Sea. He examined the outlines of the different nations in the area. Japan, his islands a pale orange on the atlas, just northwest of where his fleet currently was. To the southwest was the pink Taiwan. Across the strait and directly ahead of him was China whose landmass was, of course, red. More out of boredom than any real necessity America had begun to monitor the situation on his little map, using tacks of different colors and shapes to represent different nations’ military forces. A large amount of red tacks were sitting on China’s coastal border and in the water near it.
He picked up the blue tacks that represented his navy and moved them forward about an inch. Officially, he and his forces were coming to replace the soldiers in Korea (purple on the map) and to attend Taiwan’s recognition ceremony. Unofficially, everyone knew or at least suspected that the abnormally large amount of soldier and American fleet were going to the area to warn off China, in case he really did attack. Both reasons were true actually. He was due to replace his men in Korea with fresh ones, and he had promised Taiwan he would stick around in force for awhile to protect her. But the real purpose was something none of them had yet to suspect.
Another knock. “Come in.” America said.
A sailor entered and saluted. America returned the gesture.
“Sir, the captain wished to inform you that the ships of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force have arrived on schedule.”
“Aweso - uh, I mean, thank you.” Stay sharp America, the nation told himself, “I’ll be up in a minute.”
With that, America quickly pulled out all the tacks and folded up the atlas before stuffing it all in into his desk drawer.
****************
Half an hour later (the cafeteria had jelly-filled donuts!) America finally made his way to the flight deck. Fortunately, he had unconsciously timed his arrival perfectly. The helicopter carrying the Japanese naval officers was just now landing on his carrier. America hurried over to where his Admiral, captain, and other American officers were waiting to receive their counterparts.
Hands were shaken, head were bowed and pleasantries were exchanged. Before he knew it the military men had all left, leaving America standing with only one other person.
“Japan!” he said brightly.
The Asian nation smiled, “Hello to you too America-san.”
“Today’s the big day, isn’t this so cool?”
“It is.” Japan replied. “I talked to Taiwan this morning. She seemed nervous but very excited. She wants us to call before we arrive so she can meet us on the docks.”
So unsuspecting. America thought sadly as they headed below deck. She’s such a smart girl too. Almost a shame that this is gonna be too easy. Out loud he said, “Great! I can’t wait to get this rolling. This is going to be awesome!”
Japan looked at him oddly. “Since when have you been so excited about this? I thought long ceremonies bored you?”
America laughed. “It’s not the ceremony I want to go to. It’s the after party! Think about it, thousands of people going crazy all over the country, celebrations galore! Let the food and wine flow!”
Japan sighed but smiled a little as well. “Of course.”
Japan looked at the taller nation, vibrant with energy and restlessness, talking up a storm about how much fun they were going to have (“Even someone as uptight as you.” he said). He certainly seemed happy, Japan thought.
“You seem to have recovered from your hardships.” He noted after they had arrived at America’s quarters and America had run out of breath.
“No economy can suck forever.” America said. “My people are hard working and determined. It took us awhile but we showed the world I can still stand on my own.” He smiled, “Maybe it was a good thing all that stuff happened.”
“How so?”
“Let’s just say it opened my eyes to a few things. Hey, you want to see the whine I brought?” America grabbed Japan’s hand and pulled him along before he could say anything. “Straight from the California vineyards. France aint got nothing on this!”
Japan wondered what America meant by that but let it go. Judging by the way he was going on about his new brand of soda (what happened to the wine?), America had already forgotten he had said anything.
They talked for the duration of the voyage, occasionally turning to the television to get the latest updates on the news. Finally they arrived in Taiwan.
“Yes, we are docking right now. We’re on the U.S.S. George Washington.” Japan was saying over his phone as he and America walked across the deck. “Do you see it? Alright, we’ll see you in a minute.”
He put his phone down and turned to America. “She’s waiting for us.” He said.
“You didn’t need to tell me that,” America pointed down into the crowed of people waiting for the ships. “I can see her right there.”
Japan looked over the edge of the ship. Sure enough, he spotted the young woman with a plum flower in her hair, the personification of Taiwan. He waved at her and after locating him she waved back energetically.
Taiwan threw herself at Japan the minute he stepped onto solid ground. She squeezed him tightly while he patted her back while attempting to breathe. The girl had a strong grip. America stood of to the side smiling until Taiwan let go of Japan and hugged him too.
“I’m so glad you guys could make it!” she exclaimed, “I’m so excited! The ceremony is about to start, let’s hurry!”
Both males were dragged along by the smaller female nation, who proceeded to babble in eagerness.
“It’s really astounding. I mean, out of nowhere China just dropped this on me! I really just can’t believe this…”
“You really think she’s nervous?” America asked Japan while she talked on.
“What would ever give you that idea?” Japan replied dryly.
“Will you two be staying the night?” Taiwan asked without turning towards them.
“Sorry,” Japan said, “I have an urgent meeting that requires my attention. I’ll be leaving early tonight.”
“Same here.” America said apologetically, “I’ll stay for the celebration, but I got to get to Korea before tomorrow.”
Taiwan sighed. “Oh, well. At least you’re here. That reminds me..”
Security was tight, America observed. Taiwanese military forces surrounded government buildings and patrolled the waters. Police blocked off streets and rerouted traffic. Even so the roads were clogged with civilians swarming the capital. He noted every uniformed person and their locations. Inwardly he frowned. If there were more defense measures than he had anticipated then his plans would need some altering. He could not leave even the smallest details unaccounted for.
“… and so I reserved seats for you two so just sit back and enjoy the show.” Taiwan finished.
They had arrived at the Presidential mansion. Taiwan let go of their hands and turned to face them. “I’ve got to go finish preparing.” She said. “I’ll meet up with you guys later.”
“Alright, let’s not waste your time.” Japan said. He turned to leave, America followed him but Taiwan grabbed his arm again. She stared long and hard at him before smiling.
“I don’t know what you did to convince China to let this happen - Don’t give me that look, I know it was you.” She said to America’s surprised expression. “I was freaking out when he told me he wanted us to officially separate, but the more I thought about it the more I was looking forward to this. So…” she fidgeted before smiling again. “So, thank you, America.”
And with that, she ran off to attend her duties.
********
She said thank you.
America lay on his bunk staring at the fan. The ceremony was over, as was the nationwide celebration. Right now the people of the now official Republic of Taiwan slept. America had partied hard and toasted every little thing you could toast with Taiwan and the other nations who had stayed for the festivities. Thankfully he never had to face China, who had left immediately after the treaty was signed. Everyone had been in a good mood. No politics had been discussed, no military or trade issues had been brought up, and everyone had been having a good time. No one had come up to him and ragged on him for something or another. No one had accused him of interfering in others affairs or accused him of being the ‘World’s Policeman.’
She said thank you.
And Taiwan had said thank you. She appreciated him. She was happy he had done something for her. How long had it been since that had happened? A decade, maybe?
America turned on his side. His brow furrowed in confused thought. Someone was grateful towards him. He was liked. People who like you try to cooperate with you, right? But what America was about to do would definitely make Taiwan dislike him. Why would he risk that? He had something good right here; shouldn’t he stop while he was ahead?
Gratitude only lasts for so long though.
America rolled over to his other side. Sure she might be happy with him now, but how long would that last? When the economy went south no doubt she’d blame him. While he strained his budget on the military to protect her she would start accusing him of encroaching on her soil. If he back-peddled on that though she’d say he was neglecting his treaty obligations. If he opened up one too many McDonald’s she’d bitch at him for cultural imperialism!
He got up and walked to the window, looking out into the dark ocean. In the end, they would go their separate ways. Taiwan would say she did not need or want him anymore. He would protest but honor her wishes. Then she would be by herself, defenseless. China would roll right over her, make her one with him again. Everything America worked for would have been for nothing.
“I’m not going to let that happen.”
America went to the phone on his desk and connected himself to the bridge.
“Admiral, give the order. Execute the first Operation.”
**************
At first Taiwan thought maybe she had drank more than she should have. But as she tossed and turned in her bed, the female nation realized the uneasiness she felt was not her stomach. Connected to the island and its inhabitants Taiwan felt what they felt. Right now she felt confused and nervous.
Taiwan rolled out of bed, her pink nightgown swooshing about her knees. To the kitchen she went, pulling a cup from the cupboard and filling it with water from the sink. She drank it all in several large gulps and then sat at the table while she sorted out her thoughts.
What’s going on? Why do I feel so uncomfortable? Taiwan rubbed her brow, trying to think of what could be happening so soon after such a good time. At last she decided it was time to call her boss.
She went to the phone and dialed in his number. No answer. No, actually, there was no sound. Taiwan looked around, checking the cords. Everything was in place, she found. The line was just dead.
Feeling even more uneasy now, Taiwan hurried back to her room and grabbed her cell phone. She punched in her bosses number again and but instead of silence she was rewarded with static.
Just then the din of helicopters roared overhead. Lots of them - and lots of them flying dangerously low judging by the sound. Something else outside. Taiwan rushed to a window and watched in shock as a line of humvees and tanks rolled down the street.
Now Taiwan knew something was wrong. Without putting on any real clothes or even a coat she ran to the front door, intending to go herself to see the president.
She didn’t expect to find a grim faced America waiting for her the second she opened the door.
“America!” she gasped. “You have to help me! Something is - ”
Her words were cut short by the gun being pressed to her forehead.
“Be quiet, Taiwan” America said coldly. “If you value your people’s lives then put your hands behind your head and do exactly what I say. This island now belongs to me.”
_______________________________
Well? Any good? Suggestions?
Author: parable91
Rating: PG
Character(s)/Pairing(s): America, Japan, Taiwan
Warnings: Creepiness from America
Summary: Something in America has changed. He returns to power a changed nation. A nation who wants to share his perfect vision for a new world with everyone, even if it means forcing them to become one with him.
__________________
Ch. 2 First
He’d done it. China had fallen for his bluff. America took off his glasses and wiped them off with his shirt before setting them back on his nose. He had to be sure he was seeing this correctly.
But why can’t I hear anything? Oh, right. The TV was muted. America grabbed the remote and turned on the volume full blast.
“A historical event to be sure. One that many of us thought this century would pass without seeing.” The anchorwoman was saying, “The official treaty between China and Taiwan will be signed in exactly two hours. At which point the two will officially recognize each other as sovereign nations. Officials say…”
America muted it again as he fell back in his chair, eyes never leaving the screen. The entire room was silent save for the gentle hum of the overhead fan and the ship was large enough to feel like everything was completely still. For a moment he just sat there comprehending what he had just seen. He shouldn’t be this surprised. It had been announced a week ago, and America had already known by then what China would do. Still, for it to actually happen, to see it live was something else. It was really happening. It was really really happening. A small chuckle escaped him, then another, and then he completely busted up.
“Yes! Yes!” he shouted, “Woohoo!” America spun his chair around and threw his arms up. “Who’s the paper tiger now, China?” he laughed at the TV.
A hard rap at the door. “Sir? Are you alright?” the marine outside asked.
America quickly regained his composure. “Yeah, I’m fine.” he called back. He shook his head in self-admonishment. Get a grip, he told himself, let’s see this through first, then we can celebrate.
Indeed, it would be another couple of hours before he reached his first destination. Theoretically anything could happen in that time. What if Japan and Taiwan got wind of what he was planning to do? What if China changed his mind? Concern flickered across America’s face. That second thought worried him most of all.
America looked down at the map on his desk, his eyes bringing him over to the East China Sea. He examined the outlines of the different nations in the area. Japan, his islands a pale orange on the atlas, just northwest of where his fleet currently was. To the southwest was the pink Taiwan. Across the strait and directly ahead of him was China whose landmass was, of course, red. More out of boredom than any real necessity America had begun to monitor the situation on his little map, using tacks of different colors and shapes to represent different nations’ military forces. A large amount of red tacks were sitting on China’s coastal border and in the water near it.
He picked up the blue tacks that represented his navy and moved them forward about an inch. Officially, he and his forces were coming to replace the soldiers in Korea (purple on the map) and to attend Taiwan’s recognition ceremony. Unofficially, everyone knew or at least suspected that the abnormally large amount of soldier and American fleet were going to the area to warn off China, in case he really did attack. Both reasons were true actually. He was due to replace his men in Korea with fresh ones, and he had promised Taiwan he would stick around in force for awhile to protect her. But the real purpose was something none of them had yet to suspect.
Another knock. “Come in.” America said.
A sailor entered and saluted. America returned the gesture.
“Sir, the captain wished to inform you that the ships of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force have arrived on schedule.”
“Aweso - uh, I mean, thank you.” Stay sharp America, the nation told himself, “I’ll be up in a minute.”
With that, America quickly pulled out all the tacks and folded up the atlas before stuffing it all in into his desk drawer.
****************
Half an hour later (the cafeteria had jelly-filled donuts!) America finally made his way to the flight deck. Fortunately, he had unconsciously timed his arrival perfectly. The helicopter carrying the Japanese naval officers was just now landing on his carrier. America hurried over to where his Admiral, captain, and other American officers were waiting to receive their counterparts.
Hands were shaken, head were bowed and pleasantries were exchanged. Before he knew it the military men had all left, leaving America standing with only one other person.
“Japan!” he said brightly.
The Asian nation smiled, “Hello to you too America-san.”
“Today’s the big day, isn’t this so cool?”
“It is.” Japan replied. “I talked to Taiwan this morning. She seemed nervous but very excited. She wants us to call before we arrive so she can meet us on the docks.”
So unsuspecting. America thought sadly as they headed below deck. She’s such a smart girl too. Almost a shame that this is gonna be too easy. Out loud he said, “Great! I can’t wait to get this rolling. This is going to be awesome!”
Japan looked at him oddly. “Since when have you been so excited about this? I thought long ceremonies bored you?”
America laughed. “It’s not the ceremony I want to go to. It’s the after party! Think about it, thousands of people going crazy all over the country, celebrations galore! Let the food and wine flow!”
Japan sighed but smiled a little as well. “Of course.”
Japan looked at the taller nation, vibrant with energy and restlessness, talking up a storm about how much fun they were going to have (“Even someone as uptight as you.” he said). He certainly seemed happy, Japan thought.
“You seem to have recovered from your hardships.” He noted after they had arrived at America’s quarters and America had run out of breath.
“No economy can suck forever.” America said. “My people are hard working and determined. It took us awhile but we showed the world I can still stand on my own.” He smiled, “Maybe it was a good thing all that stuff happened.”
“How so?”
“Let’s just say it opened my eyes to a few things. Hey, you want to see the whine I brought?” America grabbed Japan’s hand and pulled him along before he could say anything. “Straight from the California vineyards. France aint got nothing on this!”
Japan wondered what America meant by that but let it go. Judging by the way he was going on about his new brand of soda (what happened to the wine?), America had already forgotten he had said anything.
They talked for the duration of the voyage, occasionally turning to the television to get the latest updates on the news. Finally they arrived in Taiwan.
“Yes, we are docking right now. We’re on the U.S.S. George Washington.” Japan was saying over his phone as he and America walked across the deck. “Do you see it? Alright, we’ll see you in a minute.”
He put his phone down and turned to America. “She’s waiting for us.” He said.
“You didn’t need to tell me that,” America pointed down into the crowed of people waiting for the ships. “I can see her right there.”
Japan looked over the edge of the ship. Sure enough, he spotted the young woman with a plum flower in her hair, the personification of Taiwan. He waved at her and after locating him she waved back energetically.
Taiwan threw herself at Japan the minute he stepped onto solid ground. She squeezed him tightly while he patted her back while attempting to breathe. The girl had a strong grip. America stood of to the side smiling until Taiwan let go of Japan and hugged him too.
“I’m so glad you guys could make it!” she exclaimed, “I’m so excited! The ceremony is about to start, let’s hurry!”
Both males were dragged along by the smaller female nation, who proceeded to babble in eagerness.
“It’s really astounding. I mean, out of nowhere China just dropped this on me! I really just can’t believe this…”
“You really think she’s nervous?” America asked Japan while she talked on.
“What would ever give you that idea?” Japan replied dryly.
“Will you two be staying the night?” Taiwan asked without turning towards them.
“Sorry,” Japan said, “I have an urgent meeting that requires my attention. I’ll be leaving early tonight.”
“Same here.” America said apologetically, “I’ll stay for the celebration, but I got to get to Korea before tomorrow.”
Taiwan sighed. “Oh, well. At least you’re here. That reminds me..”
Security was tight, America observed. Taiwanese military forces surrounded government buildings and patrolled the waters. Police blocked off streets and rerouted traffic. Even so the roads were clogged with civilians swarming the capital. He noted every uniformed person and their locations. Inwardly he frowned. If there were more defense measures than he had anticipated then his plans would need some altering. He could not leave even the smallest details unaccounted for.
“… and so I reserved seats for you two so just sit back and enjoy the show.” Taiwan finished.
They had arrived at the Presidential mansion. Taiwan let go of their hands and turned to face them. “I’ve got to go finish preparing.” She said. “I’ll meet up with you guys later.”
“Alright, let’s not waste your time.” Japan said. He turned to leave, America followed him but Taiwan grabbed his arm again. She stared long and hard at him before smiling.
“I don’t know what you did to convince China to let this happen - Don’t give me that look, I know it was you.” She said to America’s surprised expression. “I was freaking out when he told me he wanted us to officially separate, but the more I thought about it the more I was looking forward to this. So…” she fidgeted before smiling again. “So, thank you, America.”
And with that, she ran off to attend her duties.
********
She said thank you.
America lay on his bunk staring at the fan. The ceremony was over, as was the nationwide celebration. Right now the people of the now official Republic of Taiwan slept. America had partied hard and toasted every little thing you could toast with Taiwan and the other nations who had stayed for the festivities. Thankfully he never had to face China, who had left immediately after the treaty was signed. Everyone had been in a good mood. No politics had been discussed, no military or trade issues had been brought up, and everyone had been having a good time. No one had come up to him and ragged on him for something or another. No one had accused him of interfering in others affairs or accused him of being the ‘World’s Policeman.’
She said thank you.
And Taiwan had said thank you. She appreciated him. She was happy he had done something for her. How long had it been since that had happened? A decade, maybe?
America turned on his side. His brow furrowed in confused thought. Someone was grateful towards him. He was liked. People who like you try to cooperate with you, right? But what America was about to do would definitely make Taiwan dislike him. Why would he risk that? He had something good right here; shouldn’t he stop while he was ahead?
Gratitude only lasts for so long though.
America rolled over to his other side. Sure she might be happy with him now, but how long would that last? When the economy went south no doubt she’d blame him. While he strained his budget on the military to protect her she would start accusing him of encroaching on her soil. If he back-peddled on that though she’d say he was neglecting his treaty obligations. If he opened up one too many McDonald’s she’d bitch at him for cultural imperialism!
He got up and walked to the window, looking out into the dark ocean. In the end, they would go their separate ways. Taiwan would say she did not need or want him anymore. He would protest but honor her wishes. Then she would be by herself, defenseless. China would roll right over her, make her one with him again. Everything America worked for would have been for nothing.
“I’m not going to let that happen.”
America went to the phone on his desk and connected himself to the bridge.
“Admiral, give the order. Execute the first Operation.”
**************
At first Taiwan thought maybe she had drank more than she should have. But as she tossed and turned in her bed, the female nation realized the uneasiness she felt was not her stomach. Connected to the island and its inhabitants Taiwan felt what they felt. Right now she felt confused and nervous.
Taiwan rolled out of bed, her pink nightgown swooshing about her knees. To the kitchen she went, pulling a cup from the cupboard and filling it with water from the sink. She drank it all in several large gulps and then sat at the table while she sorted out her thoughts.
What’s going on? Why do I feel so uncomfortable? Taiwan rubbed her brow, trying to think of what could be happening so soon after such a good time. At last she decided it was time to call her boss.
She went to the phone and dialed in his number. No answer. No, actually, there was no sound. Taiwan looked around, checking the cords. Everything was in place, she found. The line was just dead.
Feeling even more uneasy now, Taiwan hurried back to her room and grabbed her cell phone. She punched in her bosses number again and but instead of silence she was rewarded with static.
Just then the din of helicopters roared overhead. Lots of them - and lots of them flying dangerously low judging by the sound. Something else outside. Taiwan rushed to a window and watched in shock as a line of humvees and tanks rolled down the street.
Now Taiwan knew something was wrong. Without putting on any real clothes or even a coat she ran to the front door, intending to go herself to see the president.
She didn’t expect to find a grim faced America waiting for her the second she opened the door.
“America!” she gasped. “You have to help me! Something is - ”
Her words were cut short by the gun being pressed to her forehead.
“Be quiet, Taiwan” America said coldly. “If you value your people’s lives then put your hands behind your head and do exactly what I say. This island now belongs to me.”
_______________________________
Well? Any good? Suggestions?