Tell Me Your Secrets 1/4
Deanon from the kink meme for this prompt: I want one nation to suddenly gain the ability to read minds. No preference on who (but I do shamelessly ship US/UK, just sayin), no preference on smut vs fluff, the only thing I want is for a second nation to comfort the other nation when hearing everyone in their head has finally driven them insane.
England is spelled to hear the thoughts of everyone around him. These voices start to drive him insane but luckily America is there to help.
Tell Me Your Secrets
"I can help Arthur." The small, green faerie said enticingly. "He'll be a piece of cake."
"No." England replied firmly. "I know what you'll do; I haven't forgotten what you did to Lydia. Leave America alone, I don't want him to get caught up in your little games."
"You're overreacting." The faerie pouted slightly but this did little to sway Arthur. "Fine I promise. I won't do anything to America." She sighed, trying to look as woebegone as possible but Arthur had been around too long for that to work on him.
"Nice try. Now I have to get to the meeting, be good." He warned before collecting up his things.
"England did say to do nothing to America. But what about him?" She wondered before a devious smirk appeared on her face. "I can help." She quickly flew after England and dropped a quick spell on his back. Unfortunately, in her quest not to be seen, she forgot to put any restrictions on the spell.
"Hey Iggy, you ready for this?" America greeted his former caretaker cheerfully. I am this time! I have this awesome idea!
"What idea is this?" England asked cynically, not looking at the other nation as he straightened his tie in his reflection in the lift doors.
"Oops, did I say that out loud?" America said sheepishly. Hopefully you won't reject it this time, just because it's mine. England gave America a strange look before shaking it off.
"So your idea?" He prompted curiously.
"Well it's this awesome idea about the economy and how we all band together to help stop this recession in its tracks." America said with a bright smile. What does he think, I can't tell with that look on his face. That time England had been staring straight at America and had definitely not seen his lips move.
"Sounds interesting America." He muttered absently as he stared hard at America. Why he is looking at me like that? Wait, did he just say he liked my idea? Awesome! England could not help but smile at the enthusiasm in his voice and America returned it with a large grin. They had to turn away when the lift doors opened at their floor.
"I think we're a little early England." America said; England had seen his mouth move out of the corner of his eye. I'm kinda glad, we can hang out without anyone interfering, like France or Russia. This time England was sure that America had not spoken, if the words were not obvious enough, the kind, wistful tone that America said them in was so different from how he usually spoke. "So did you watch that movie that I sent you? Creepy wasn't it?"
"It was slightly creepy, but the acting could have been better." Of course, you couldn't give something of mine a compliment without adding an insult. The bitterness of America's 'voice' surprised England who looked up in shock as they sat down in their usual places. "I guess it can show how things can go wrong." England murmured as he watched America's eyes as they flitted around the room, to his papers before settling on England's face, still not meeting his eyes. "America, are you okay?" He asked uncharacteristically and he could almost feel America's surprise. What the- Why is asking me that?
"I'm fine Iggy. Are you okay? You're acting strange." Like nice for once. England winced at that thought. America had to be exaggerating, he couldn’t be that bad.
"Angleterre! So nice that you're here so early," was the only warning England got before France's hand appeared on his shoulder and started to move downwards. England jumped with a yell.
"Get off me!" However France just looked amused and again England heard his voice just like he was speaking but his mouth was not moving. Poor little Angleterre, he seems so lonely. I don't know why he keeps rejecting me. France's gaze slid behind England and became, if possible, more amused. Oh yes I remember why. Amérique looks ready to kill me.
England froze but managed to stop himself turning around. Instead he tuned into America's thoughts. French bastard had better leave England alone. He seems stressed enough without that moron bothering him. Plus I don't like him touching England. A sudden rush of affection filled England at America's protective words but all he could do was give the younger nation a soft look before sitting down again. He listened in amusement at America's thoughts. What the hell was that? I mean I love him and all but he's acting really weird.
England choked and stared at America in shock.
"W-what?" He stuttered. America had just blurted out what it had taken over two centuries for England to admit it to himself. At America's discomfort, England realised that he had been thinking that, not saying it.
"Er...I'm pretty sure that I didn't say that out loud." America answered, smiling uneasily. I think I would remember if I suddenly told you that I loved you. I mean if I did, I would go the whole nine yards with a nice meal, maybe even that Ramsay's restaurant that you said you liked and with some red and white roses, I remember you said that you like the Tudor Rose with the red and white. England smiled at America's thought and thought that it must be the Hollywood coming out in him. Maybe he could nudge America in that direction, it sounded like it would be an enjoyable evening.
The green faerie hovering in the top corner of the room looked delighted at this turn of events and quickly sped off to tell the others. She would prove to them that she did not mess up every spell!
It was a half hour later before other nations started to file in. England, who was talking civilly to America at the time, cut himself off with a twinge of irritation. Sometimes the other nations were so loud, it got very annoying. However, listening to some of things being said and seeing America's worried face made England realise that it was not just America and France he could hear the thoughts of, it was every single nation in the room.
I wonder whether they would let me photograph them......
That Russian better step away from Liet!
Germany should make pasta more often, it's much better than wurst.
Stupid Spain, if he would stop fawning over Feliciano so much, I would do whatever the fuck he wants!
He had better step away from her otherwise I'll......
I don't like the look on Elizabeta's face...
Ah America is here. I'm so glad, maybe this time I can finally crush him.
The last comment caused England to jerk around in search of the Russian 'voice' that had said it. Wherever the arsehole was, England would impress on him the importance of staying away from America.
"England are you okay?" The European nation jumped again and swung around to face a worried looking America.
"I'm fine America." He answered mechanically, still searching for Russia as the other nations took their seats.
"Because you've been really jumpy and you look like you're hurting." America said, as England finally focused on his face. I want to make you feel better. Again England heard America's 'voice' and softened towards his former colony even more.
"Thank you America, I've just got a really bad headache." England confessed; this was not a lie, the different voices were starting to pound in his head.
"I have some Tylenol you can take if you want." America offered, searching through his pockets. They're here somewhere....found them! With a smug expression, America withdrew the painkillers with a flourish, handing them to England who refused them with a wave of his hand. Why not have them? I haven't poisoned them...or this just you not liking anything of mine again? This time England almost felt the sadness and self-deprecation that was obvious in America's words.
"It's not that." He murmured, slipping into answering Alfred's thoughts and not his words. "It's just I had some painkillers earlier." When he had just thought the people's voices coming from around his car were unusually loud and not their actual thoughts being beamed into his brain. How did I know what I was thinking? Hey, if he's had some painkillers earlier and he's still in pain that must be a killer headache he’s having.
"And they're still not working?" America said, echoing his thoughts. "If you don't feel better, I think you should go and lie down." He looks ill, really white and stuff.
"I'll be fine America." England replied, turning his attention to Germany who was calling the meeting to order. It would be nice to have a meeting without any physical violence or verbal fights. Germany's thoughts were now the ones that England could hear even though the others were buzzing on the edge of his consciousness. Feliciano did not like it last time, he said that Bulgaria had gotten him in the eye. England's eyebrows rose at that, he thought that the eternally-repressed Germany would never realise how he felt for Northern Italy or vice versa. The others' thoughts started to push their way to the front of his mind, causing him to turn his attention to the rest of the nations.
I know you Europeans have flings and affairs but when I sleep with someone, it normally goes a little deeper than that. So I would like a relationship with you, a proper one where you sleep with me and only me. Now if only I could work up the courage to say it to him. To his surprise, this voice came from England's former colony, Canada, and he was staring wistfully at France of all people. England wondered when Canada had slept with France when the other's miserable thoughts cut him off. But of course that would mean that he'd think I was actually worth being monogamous for. It was him who taught me that everyone had slept with everyone at least once. Which means I was the last virgin among nations, how embarrassing.
Here England choked on his tea which he had just taken a sip off. He could not believe that France had told Canada that and that the boy had believed him! France was practically the only one who had slept with nearly every nation, the others were into more meaningful romantic relationships than that, after all relations between two countries could go up and down like one of England's soap relationships. Due to this many nations did not want to have more than one romantic relationship especially when that provided enough drama and stability at times to satisfy anyone.
"Iggy? Feeling better?" America whispered as Germany sat down, ready for China to speak.
"I am. Thank you America." England smiled at the sincere concern before listening to China, and by default, China's thoughts. America still owes me that money and look, sitting next to him is England. Another person I dislike. I still haven't forgiven him for the opium wars. England winced, he was still mad at him about that? He quickly turned to South Korea sitting next to China and looking up at him with an eager expression on his face. China is beautiful, he's such a good speaker. I think I might send him a gift. It would be nice to see if he keeps it this time. England felt he should be surprised at this but the man had made his feelings painfully obvious.
Feeling that he should be taking advantage of this ability even if was just a reward for the developing headache caused by the nation's thoughts, he started to listen, picking out different voices. There was France who was wondering whether he could get away with groping North Italy without Germany finding out, Austria was thinking about whether the other nations would find out about him starting up his relationship with Hungary again and Poland's thoughts were getting worryingly dark towards Russia.
Someone should either keep an eye on Poland or get Lithuania away from Russia because the look in the tall man's eyes and the strange feelings he was giving off were even starting to disturb England so he could not imagine what it was doing to Poland. Actually if he thought about the Cold War, then he did understand what was going on in Poland's head.
Now should I pick up the baby after I go to Sainsburys or before? England's eyebrows drew together, he did not recognise the voice and he was sure no nation had a baby at the moment. Also she sounded English which could only mean that it was a human's thoughts he was hearing and that meant this strange mind-reading ability was not only restricted to the area of the room anymore.
As America stood up to talk, England tried to focus on what he was saying but it was so hard. It seemed that now he had acknowledged that he could hear human voices as well, he seemed to be picking them up even more.
She should learn to shut her mouth...
Ellen really should pay more attention to Daniel, someone could steal him away.
Stupid idiot, why doesn't he listen?
I'm an auntie, I'm an auntie!
England winced as the voices started to clamour together so they were unrecognisable. It was like he was in a room with everyone talking at once, with some people screaming and some laughing. It was so overwhelming.
"ENGLAND!" England jerked at the shout, looking around wildly and seeing all the nations staring at him. It appeared that America had been trying to get his attention for some time.
Woah he's like, so weird.
Oh dear, England's losing it. What a shame.
Maybe he should sit down.
I could make him feel all better.
The voices poured into his brain, making him unable to focus on what America was saying or anyone else. He needed to get out of here and fast. That decision made, he stood up, throwing his chair backwards and causing everyone to jerk in surprise.
"I'm sorry but I have a really bad headache. You'll have to excuse me." England said as calmly as he could before almost sprinting to the door.
As soon as he got down the corridor, England sank down into a strange sitting position. The voices of the other nations were, if possible, even louder and now there were the thoughts of all the humans buzzing around the building and walking along the street outside. All of the voices were crashing around in England's head and he let out a strangled sob as he clutched at his hair. There was no way of making them go away, no relief from them.
Almost unconsciously England started to rock his head back and forth, slamming it against the brick wall behind him. The daze that this produced took the edge of the numerous thoughts crowding his brain so he did not even notice someone approaching until they grabbed his head, holding it still.
"Oh God Iggy, why were you hitting your head?" The confusion and pain in America's voice caused England to stop but the overwhelming concern he felt from America managed to make him focus on the other nation.
"Hurts." England forced out, watching America listlessly. America gave a weak laugh.
"Of course it hurts, you were just hitting it against the wall." He joked even though his thoughts were taking a different tone. You could have seriously injured yourself, you could have got a head injury, you could have d-. No you couldn't have died, you used to be the British Empire and survived two World Wars. You're strong England, nothing as simple as being ill can bring you down! Touched beyond belief that America felt this way towards him (he had always thought that American saw him as something past the prime of his life, who was now weak compared to him) England managed to pull himself upwards, only tipping slightly. It was strange, when he focused on America, his was the only voice England could hear. Maybe there was something to that but for now, England just wanted to get away from the pain.
"Take me home America. Please." He said quietly, looping an arm around America's neck. England found small amusement in how America's thoughts stuttered to a halt, however he was mostly grateful how America brought him down to where the car was without question. He did not even question when England curled up into a ball in the passenger though his thoughts were buzzing. By the time they had gotten to England's house in the country, America was buzzing with curiosity and England was babbling as America helped him out of passenger seat, so grateful from getting away from the voices.
"Thank you America, thank you, thank you, the voices hurt, the people hurt and I can't get away from them, thank you, thank you for getting me away from them, it's quiet, oh God it's quiet, I can hear again, thank you America, thank you, thank you." Whoa England, what happened to you? Something must seriously be screwed up for you to act like this.
"England, tell me the truth, what's wrong?" America asked quietly as, on England's instruction, he set him down on his bed. England's arm around his waist pulled America down with him and even though America stumbled, trying not to fall on top of England, England kept pulling until the younger nation was lying next to him and the former was curled into him.
"Can hear people's thoughts, not just nations but all the humans in the buildings as well. Won't stop and now I can hear everybody around me and they're crowding my brain and it won't stop." England said desperately, now that it was all reasonably quiet with the thoughts having faded to a faint buzz at the back of his mind, he did not want to be reminded of the pain he felt before.
"Calm down England, it's okay." America said soothingly. Wait thoughts? Does that mean you've heard mine all day? And right now? England smiled wryly.
"Yes America, I've heard yours all day."
"And?" America asked nervously. It wasn't exactly the most romantic confession I could have done. It's not fair that you know how I feel and I don't have clue about you! England chuckled.
"You're being silly America, I thought you already knew that I loved you back." America's thoughts and bright smile confirmed he did not know until now and that was one of the many reasons England succumbed willingly to the other nation's celebratory kiss. A few minutes later they pulled back and England added, "I also wanted to thank you." Instantly he could feel America become wary. You mean like when you were coming out of the car? Cause I don't like seeing you like that. "I know, it's just I wanted to thank you for what you were thinking throughout the day. Some of your thoughts were so kind and you were so surprised when I was nice to you that..." England looked down ashamed. "But your thoughts just blocked out everyone else's as well and I could focus and it didn't hurt." I'm glad Iggy.
"Well I haven't exactly being the nicest to you all the time so I'm sorry about that." America admitted out loud, he needed to say the words. And don't thank me for that. A loud crash from downstairs pulled England's mind away from America and he winced as he realised who it was.
It's my brothers. Can you please get rid of them America? They'll just laugh at me when they'll see I'm sick." England asked and America nodded without argument, slipping off the bed.
Oh look, it's England's favourite vase. Oops. These thoughts were followed by a another crash from downstairs and England groaned as the focus he got from America's thoughts was completely gone, meaning every single thought nearby started to flood into his mind. He started to breathe heavily in and out of his nose, trying to focus on anything else apart from his intrusive brothers' thoughts. Unfortunately, something to focus on burst into his room with a large shout that made England's head throb.
"Go away Scotland." He muttered and the blonde boy looked at his younger brother curiously before sitting down on the bed.
"Now don't be so grumpy England, you know you always enjoy our company." He said loudly, poking at England's side, causing the younger to start to squirm away from him. I knew I should have raised you better.
"You didn't raise me at all." England muttered, remembering Scotland's 'training' where he left England out in the wilderness when he was younger and told him to survive on his own. He shut his eyes and tried to pretend that his brother was not next to him, bouncing on the bed, and America was just getting him a glass of water. However as soon as he stopped paying attention to Scotland, the inner voices started to get steadily louder until they were at an ear-splitting level again.
"Hey England." Scotland repeated as he watched his little brother thrash on the bed. "What's wrong with you?" He asked as England clutched at his head.
"Scotland. If you have at least one shred of decency in you, go and get America." England forced out through gritted teeth and Scotland, for once, decided to do as he asked. But he was almost immediately replaced by England's other brother, the red-haired Ireland. The Irish nation decided to greet his younger brother with his usual greeting, a slap round the head.
"Hey little brother." He said casually but as the blow hit England's head right where he had hit it on the wall earlier, he recoiled with a short scream.
"England!" America yelled, finally coming into the bedroom again. With an action best suited to a Indiana Jones movie, America managed to get from the doorway to between Ireland and England in one move. Both hands were clenched into fists and he sent a worried look back at England who was no longer aware of his surroundings. "Get the hell away from him." He hissed to Ireland who glared back.
"He's my little brother." Ireland retorted.
"Some brother you are. You show up here and break all England's stuff and then hit him on the head when he's sick!" America said fiercely and his voice started to register in England's mind.
"America?" He asked, trying to sit up, still holding a hand to his head. Without another glance at the Irish man, America sat down on the bed and put a hand on England's calf.
Hey England? You okay? Your brothers aren't bothering you too much? America thought, remembering what England said about his thoughts. England relaxed slightly as the other voices became a dull buzz. However he could feel the hurt coming off Ireland and Scotland.
"What the hell England? Isn't this the same guy who humiliated and left you?" Ireland asked angrily while Scotland crossed his arms.
"Just go away Ireland. Scotland, thanks but I would feel better if you left." England said firmly, gripping America's hand as it rested on his leg. He nodded at the man leaning against the door frame, identical to him apart from with pale brown hair instead of blond and blue eyes instead of green.
"We'll call you later England. Feel better." Wales said quietly before ushering his other two brothers out.
"See you soon Wales." England replied, watching his brothers leave before collapsing against America. "I'm so glad they're gone." He put his forehead against America's shoulder. So am I. Are you feeling better? America asked and England nodded as much as he could, suddenly feeling as if his eyelids were being pulled down. "Sorry America, I'm going to have to be a bad host." He said as he slumped backwards and America slowly lowered him to the cushions.
"It's okay England, I'll be here when you wake up."
Part 2
England is spelled to hear the thoughts of everyone around him. These voices start to drive him insane but luckily America is there to help.
Tell Me Your Secrets
"I can help Arthur." The small, green faerie said enticingly. "He'll be a piece of cake."
"No." England replied firmly. "I know what you'll do; I haven't forgotten what you did to Lydia. Leave America alone, I don't want him to get caught up in your little games."
"You're overreacting." The faerie pouted slightly but this did little to sway Arthur. "Fine I promise. I won't do anything to America." She sighed, trying to look as woebegone as possible but Arthur had been around too long for that to work on him.
"Nice try. Now I have to get to the meeting, be good." He warned before collecting up his things.
"England did say to do nothing to America. But what about him?" She wondered before a devious smirk appeared on her face. "I can help." She quickly flew after England and dropped a quick spell on his back. Unfortunately, in her quest not to be seen, she forgot to put any restrictions on the spell.
"Hey Iggy, you ready for this?" America greeted his former caretaker cheerfully. I am this time! I have this awesome idea!
"What idea is this?" England asked cynically, not looking at the other nation as he straightened his tie in his reflection in the lift doors.
"Oops, did I say that out loud?" America said sheepishly. Hopefully you won't reject it this time, just because it's mine. England gave America a strange look before shaking it off.
"So your idea?" He prompted curiously.
"Well it's this awesome idea about the economy and how we all band together to help stop this recession in its tracks." America said with a bright smile. What does he think, I can't tell with that look on his face. That time England had been staring straight at America and had definitely not seen his lips move.
"Sounds interesting America." He muttered absently as he stared hard at America. Why he is looking at me like that? Wait, did he just say he liked my idea? Awesome! England could not help but smile at the enthusiasm in his voice and America returned it with a large grin. They had to turn away when the lift doors opened at their floor.
"I think we're a little early England." America said; England had seen his mouth move out of the corner of his eye. I'm kinda glad, we can hang out without anyone interfering, like France or Russia. This time England was sure that America had not spoken, if the words were not obvious enough, the kind, wistful tone that America said them in was so different from how he usually spoke. "So did you watch that movie that I sent you? Creepy wasn't it?"
"It was slightly creepy, but the acting could have been better." Of course, you couldn't give something of mine a compliment without adding an insult. The bitterness of America's 'voice' surprised England who looked up in shock as they sat down in their usual places. "I guess it can show how things can go wrong." England murmured as he watched America's eyes as they flitted around the room, to his papers before settling on England's face, still not meeting his eyes. "America, are you okay?" He asked uncharacteristically and he could almost feel America's surprise. What the- Why is asking me that?
"I'm fine Iggy. Are you okay? You're acting strange." Like nice for once. England winced at that thought. America had to be exaggerating, he couldn’t be that bad.
"Angleterre! So nice that you're here so early," was the only warning England got before France's hand appeared on his shoulder and started to move downwards. England jumped with a yell.
"Get off me!" However France just looked amused and again England heard his voice just like he was speaking but his mouth was not moving. Poor little Angleterre, he seems so lonely. I don't know why he keeps rejecting me. France's gaze slid behind England and became, if possible, more amused. Oh yes I remember why. Amérique looks ready to kill me.
England froze but managed to stop himself turning around. Instead he tuned into America's thoughts. French bastard had better leave England alone. He seems stressed enough without that moron bothering him. Plus I don't like him touching England. A sudden rush of affection filled England at America's protective words but all he could do was give the younger nation a soft look before sitting down again. He listened in amusement at America's thoughts. What the hell was that? I mean I love him and all but he's acting really weird.
England choked and stared at America in shock.
"W-what?" He stuttered. America had just blurted out what it had taken over two centuries for England to admit it to himself. At America's discomfort, England realised that he had been thinking that, not saying it.
"Er...I'm pretty sure that I didn't say that out loud." America answered, smiling uneasily. I think I would remember if I suddenly told you that I loved you. I mean if I did, I would go the whole nine yards with a nice meal, maybe even that Ramsay's restaurant that you said you liked and with some red and white roses, I remember you said that you like the Tudor Rose with the red and white. England smiled at America's thought and thought that it must be the Hollywood coming out in him. Maybe he could nudge America in that direction, it sounded like it would be an enjoyable evening.
The green faerie hovering in the top corner of the room looked delighted at this turn of events and quickly sped off to tell the others. She would prove to them that she did not mess up every spell!
It was a half hour later before other nations started to file in. England, who was talking civilly to America at the time, cut himself off with a twinge of irritation. Sometimes the other nations were so loud, it got very annoying. However, listening to some of things being said and seeing America's worried face made England realise that it was not just America and France he could hear the thoughts of, it was every single nation in the room.
I wonder whether they would let me photograph them......
That Russian better step away from Liet!
Germany should make pasta more often, it's much better than wurst.
Stupid Spain, if he would stop fawning over Feliciano so much, I would do whatever the fuck he wants!
He had better step away from her otherwise I'll......
I don't like the look on Elizabeta's face...
Ah America is here. I'm so glad, maybe this time I can finally crush him.
The last comment caused England to jerk around in search of the Russian 'voice' that had said it. Wherever the arsehole was, England would impress on him the importance of staying away from America.
"England are you okay?" The European nation jumped again and swung around to face a worried looking America.
"I'm fine America." He answered mechanically, still searching for Russia as the other nations took their seats.
"Because you've been really jumpy and you look like you're hurting." America said, as England finally focused on his face. I want to make you feel better. Again England heard America's 'voice' and softened towards his former colony even more.
"Thank you America, I've just got a really bad headache." England confessed; this was not a lie, the different voices were starting to pound in his head.
"I have some Tylenol you can take if you want." America offered, searching through his pockets. They're here somewhere....found them! With a smug expression, America withdrew the painkillers with a flourish, handing them to England who refused them with a wave of his hand. Why not have them? I haven't poisoned them...or this just you not liking anything of mine again? This time England almost felt the sadness and self-deprecation that was obvious in America's words.
"It's not that." He murmured, slipping into answering Alfred's thoughts and not his words. "It's just I had some painkillers earlier." When he had just thought the people's voices coming from around his car were unusually loud and not their actual thoughts being beamed into his brain. How did I know what I was thinking? Hey, if he's had some painkillers earlier and he's still in pain that must be a killer headache he’s having.
"And they're still not working?" America said, echoing his thoughts. "If you don't feel better, I think you should go and lie down." He looks ill, really white and stuff.
"I'll be fine America." England replied, turning his attention to Germany who was calling the meeting to order. It would be nice to have a meeting without any physical violence or verbal fights. Germany's thoughts were now the ones that England could hear even though the others were buzzing on the edge of his consciousness. Feliciano did not like it last time, he said that Bulgaria had gotten him in the eye. England's eyebrows rose at that, he thought that the eternally-repressed Germany would never realise how he felt for Northern Italy or vice versa. The others' thoughts started to push their way to the front of his mind, causing him to turn his attention to the rest of the nations.
I know you Europeans have flings and affairs but when I sleep with someone, it normally goes a little deeper than that. So I would like a relationship with you, a proper one where you sleep with me and only me. Now if only I could work up the courage to say it to him. To his surprise, this voice came from England's former colony, Canada, and he was staring wistfully at France of all people. England wondered when Canada had slept with France when the other's miserable thoughts cut him off. But of course that would mean that he'd think I was actually worth being monogamous for. It was him who taught me that everyone had slept with everyone at least once. Which means I was the last virgin among nations, how embarrassing.
Here England choked on his tea which he had just taken a sip off. He could not believe that France had told Canada that and that the boy had believed him! France was practically the only one who had slept with nearly every nation, the others were into more meaningful romantic relationships than that, after all relations between two countries could go up and down like one of England's soap relationships. Due to this many nations did not want to have more than one romantic relationship especially when that provided enough drama and stability at times to satisfy anyone.
"Iggy? Feeling better?" America whispered as Germany sat down, ready for China to speak.
"I am. Thank you America." England smiled at the sincere concern before listening to China, and by default, China's thoughts. America still owes me that money and look, sitting next to him is England. Another person I dislike. I still haven't forgiven him for the opium wars. England winced, he was still mad at him about that? He quickly turned to South Korea sitting next to China and looking up at him with an eager expression on his face. China is beautiful, he's such a good speaker. I think I might send him a gift. It would be nice to see if he keeps it this time. England felt he should be surprised at this but the man had made his feelings painfully obvious.
Feeling that he should be taking advantage of this ability even if was just a reward for the developing headache caused by the nation's thoughts, he started to listen, picking out different voices. There was France who was wondering whether he could get away with groping North Italy without Germany finding out, Austria was thinking about whether the other nations would find out about him starting up his relationship with Hungary again and Poland's thoughts were getting worryingly dark towards Russia.
Someone should either keep an eye on Poland or get Lithuania away from Russia because the look in the tall man's eyes and the strange feelings he was giving off were even starting to disturb England so he could not imagine what it was doing to Poland. Actually if he thought about the Cold War, then he did understand what was going on in Poland's head.
Now should I pick up the baby after I go to Sainsburys or before? England's eyebrows drew together, he did not recognise the voice and he was sure no nation had a baby at the moment. Also she sounded English which could only mean that it was a human's thoughts he was hearing and that meant this strange mind-reading ability was not only restricted to the area of the room anymore.
As America stood up to talk, England tried to focus on what he was saying but it was so hard. It seemed that now he had acknowledged that he could hear human voices as well, he seemed to be picking them up even more.
She should learn to shut her mouth...
Ellen really should pay more attention to Daniel, someone could steal him away.
Stupid idiot, why doesn't he listen?
I'm an auntie, I'm an auntie!
England winced as the voices started to clamour together so they were unrecognisable. It was like he was in a room with everyone talking at once, with some people screaming and some laughing. It was so overwhelming.
"ENGLAND!" England jerked at the shout, looking around wildly and seeing all the nations staring at him. It appeared that America had been trying to get his attention for some time.
Woah he's like, so weird.
Oh dear, England's losing it. What a shame.
Maybe he should sit down.
I could make him feel all better.
The voices poured into his brain, making him unable to focus on what America was saying or anyone else. He needed to get out of here and fast. That decision made, he stood up, throwing his chair backwards and causing everyone to jerk in surprise.
"I'm sorry but I have a really bad headache. You'll have to excuse me." England said as calmly as he could before almost sprinting to the door.
As soon as he got down the corridor, England sank down into a strange sitting position. The voices of the other nations were, if possible, even louder and now there were the thoughts of all the humans buzzing around the building and walking along the street outside. All of the voices were crashing around in England's head and he let out a strangled sob as he clutched at his hair. There was no way of making them go away, no relief from them.
Almost unconsciously England started to rock his head back and forth, slamming it against the brick wall behind him. The daze that this produced took the edge of the numerous thoughts crowding his brain so he did not even notice someone approaching until they grabbed his head, holding it still.
"Oh God Iggy, why were you hitting your head?" The confusion and pain in America's voice caused England to stop but the overwhelming concern he felt from America managed to make him focus on the other nation.
"Hurts." England forced out, watching America listlessly. America gave a weak laugh.
"Of course it hurts, you were just hitting it against the wall." He joked even though his thoughts were taking a different tone. You could have seriously injured yourself, you could have got a head injury, you could have d-. No you couldn't have died, you used to be the British Empire and survived two World Wars. You're strong England, nothing as simple as being ill can bring you down! Touched beyond belief that America felt this way towards him (he had always thought that American saw him as something past the prime of his life, who was now weak compared to him) England managed to pull himself upwards, only tipping slightly. It was strange, when he focused on America, his was the only voice England could hear. Maybe there was something to that but for now, England just wanted to get away from the pain.
"Take me home America. Please." He said quietly, looping an arm around America's neck. England found small amusement in how America's thoughts stuttered to a halt, however he was mostly grateful how America brought him down to where the car was without question. He did not even question when England curled up into a ball in the passenger though his thoughts were buzzing. By the time they had gotten to England's house in the country, America was buzzing with curiosity and England was babbling as America helped him out of passenger seat, so grateful from getting away from the voices.
"Thank you America, thank you, thank you, the voices hurt, the people hurt and I can't get away from them, thank you, thank you for getting me away from them, it's quiet, oh God it's quiet, I can hear again, thank you America, thank you, thank you." Whoa England, what happened to you? Something must seriously be screwed up for you to act like this.
"England, tell me the truth, what's wrong?" America asked quietly as, on England's instruction, he set him down on his bed. England's arm around his waist pulled America down with him and even though America stumbled, trying not to fall on top of England, England kept pulling until the younger nation was lying next to him and the former was curled into him.
"Can hear people's thoughts, not just nations but all the humans in the buildings as well. Won't stop and now I can hear everybody around me and they're crowding my brain and it won't stop." England said desperately, now that it was all reasonably quiet with the thoughts having faded to a faint buzz at the back of his mind, he did not want to be reminded of the pain he felt before.
"Calm down England, it's okay." America said soothingly. Wait thoughts? Does that mean you've heard mine all day? And right now? England smiled wryly.
"Yes America, I've heard yours all day."
"And?" America asked nervously. It wasn't exactly the most romantic confession I could have done. It's not fair that you know how I feel and I don't have clue about you! England chuckled.
"You're being silly America, I thought you already knew that I loved you back." America's thoughts and bright smile confirmed he did not know until now and that was one of the many reasons England succumbed willingly to the other nation's celebratory kiss. A few minutes later they pulled back and England added, "I also wanted to thank you." Instantly he could feel America become wary. You mean like when you were coming out of the car? Cause I don't like seeing you like that. "I know, it's just I wanted to thank you for what you were thinking throughout the day. Some of your thoughts were so kind and you were so surprised when I was nice to you that..." England looked down ashamed. "But your thoughts just blocked out everyone else's as well and I could focus and it didn't hurt." I'm glad Iggy.
"Well I haven't exactly being the nicest to you all the time so I'm sorry about that." America admitted out loud, he needed to say the words. And don't thank me for that. A loud crash from downstairs pulled England's mind away from America and he winced as he realised who it was.
It's my brothers. Can you please get rid of them America? They'll just laugh at me when they'll see I'm sick." England asked and America nodded without argument, slipping off the bed.
Oh look, it's England's favourite vase. Oops. These thoughts were followed by a another crash from downstairs and England groaned as the focus he got from America's thoughts was completely gone, meaning every single thought nearby started to flood into his mind. He started to breathe heavily in and out of his nose, trying to focus on anything else apart from his intrusive brothers' thoughts. Unfortunately, something to focus on burst into his room with a large shout that made England's head throb.
"Go away Scotland." He muttered and the blonde boy looked at his younger brother curiously before sitting down on the bed.
"Now don't be so grumpy England, you know you always enjoy our company." He said loudly, poking at England's side, causing the younger to start to squirm away from him. I knew I should have raised you better.
"You didn't raise me at all." England muttered, remembering Scotland's 'training' where he left England out in the wilderness when he was younger and told him to survive on his own. He shut his eyes and tried to pretend that his brother was not next to him, bouncing on the bed, and America was just getting him a glass of water. However as soon as he stopped paying attention to Scotland, the inner voices started to get steadily louder until they were at an ear-splitting level again.
"Hey England." Scotland repeated as he watched his little brother thrash on the bed. "What's wrong with you?" He asked as England clutched at his head.
"Scotland. If you have at least one shred of decency in you, go and get America." England forced out through gritted teeth and Scotland, for once, decided to do as he asked. But he was almost immediately replaced by England's other brother, the red-haired Ireland. The Irish nation decided to greet his younger brother with his usual greeting, a slap round the head.
"Hey little brother." He said casually but as the blow hit England's head right where he had hit it on the wall earlier, he recoiled with a short scream.
"England!" America yelled, finally coming into the bedroom again. With an action best suited to a Indiana Jones movie, America managed to get from the doorway to between Ireland and England in one move. Both hands were clenched into fists and he sent a worried look back at England who was no longer aware of his surroundings. "Get the hell away from him." He hissed to Ireland who glared back.
"He's my little brother." Ireland retorted.
"Some brother you are. You show up here and break all England's stuff and then hit him on the head when he's sick!" America said fiercely and his voice started to register in England's mind.
"America?" He asked, trying to sit up, still holding a hand to his head. Without another glance at the Irish man, America sat down on the bed and put a hand on England's calf.
Hey England? You okay? Your brothers aren't bothering you too much? America thought, remembering what England said about his thoughts. England relaxed slightly as the other voices became a dull buzz. However he could feel the hurt coming off Ireland and Scotland.
"What the hell England? Isn't this the same guy who humiliated and left you?" Ireland asked angrily while Scotland crossed his arms.
"Just go away Ireland. Scotland, thanks but I would feel better if you left." England said firmly, gripping America's hand as it rested on his leg. He nodded at the man leaning against the door frame, identical to him apart from with pale brown hair instead of blond and blue eyes instead of green.
"We'll call you later England. Feel better." Wales said quietly before ushering his other two brothers out.
"See you soon Wales." England replied, watching his brothers leave before collapsing against America. "I'm so glad they're gone." He put his forehead against America's shoulder. So am I. Are you feeling better? America asked and England nodded as much as he could, suddenly feeling as if his eyelids were being pulled down. "Sorry America, I'm going to have to be a bad host." He said as he slumped backwards and America slowly lowered him to the cushions.
"It's okay England, I'll be here when you wake up."
Part 2