[FanFic] Longest Holiday (Special Interlude- A Hero's Conflict)
Author's Note: I'm still alive and NOT doing a summary of the whole spanish-american-philippine war / japanese invasion thing because AHHH I'm straying at the main plot and this is so damn long already!
Longest Holiday - Pt.01 HERE
Longest Holiday - Pt.02 HERE
Longest Holiday - Pt.03 HERE
Longest Holiday - (Antonio's Special Interlude) HERE
Title: Longest Holiday Chapter Ever (Special Interlude - A Hero's Conflict)
Author: silentside
Characters: OC!Female PH-tan (Ma.Salome) in flashback, America, Spain (real time and flash back wise), Finally a Tsundere!England and France being France. Some Actual Filipino Heroes...
Rating: T-ish
Genre: Light Romance / Drama / slight violence / Historical Setting (Spanish-American/Philippine-American War)
Warning: Probably grammar, but you can overlook it with the story 8Db Probably inaccuracy, plenty of time skips. Some bad humor at the prologue. I fail making Francis sound French....whatever that means. Some cursing. Too many warnings.
LONGER than Antonio's interlude. By 10 times.
Chapter Summary: "The fighting, having begun, must go on the grim end." Alfred F. Jones looked up from his clasped hands, overhearing from a distance the message his General conveyed to a Filipino officer. When the officer left, the General starts to approach towards his direction, he can see the words forming soundlessly.
He felt that this will happen eventually--- the war in Manila finally have begun.
---
Special Interlude: A Hero's Conflict
October 2009
Back at present time...
"Alfred F.Jones!" Arthur snapped, turning around furiously to Alfred, who for a split second disappeared at the conversation and was at the desk behind him. Antonio let out a relieved sigh, folding his arms and nodded to the taller blonde's direction.
"---did you drop him on the head when he was younger?" he pointed out.
Arthur facepalmed.
"No, no...sometimes its just his attention span." he grumbled, then his face heated up again. "DON'T EAT THEM! THOSE ARE NOT YOURS! Salome gave them to me!"
"Umff---Athurr if offum!" Alfred replied between a mouthful, his expression reveling at the bibingka galapong, it's slightly burnt taste, the softness of its texture and the saltiness from the egg slices all together accented by the shrivels of coconut. It all blends to a delicious symphony of flavors in his mouth; and that if there is such thing as a foodgasm, he is certainly climaxing right now.
"Oh, dear mother of mercy." Arthur facepalmed again, the idiot is starting to drool.
Having been raised and taught by Antonio, most of Salome's local dishes are of Spanish origin. He likes her desserts the best, and how she added a uniqueness to each dish. Who knew she can make a spring chicken, so tasty and not greasy? Or the time when unlike her south american siblings, she changed the idea of Antonio's guacamole and made a refreshing shake out of it instead? He thought it's so freaking weird, but when he tasted it he changed his mind completely.
Which is why he wouldn't mind dropping by now and then with his visiting arm forces, despite some mixed reactions from her superiors :/
"Arthur, you really need to taste some!" he cheerfully offered, with a half-chomped down bibingka on one hand and a plateful on the other. Frowning, the smaller blond snatched the dish furiously.
"Will you stop eating, those Coconut ric--er---Filipino pancakes?" Arthur retorted, "Salome gave them to me as uhh---consuu...sul---" Arthur starts snapping his fingers, the words Salome uses tends to be long and complicated at times. "Antonio you raised Salome, what's the word?"
"Oh, it's consuelo---it means compensation." Antonio replied softly
"Yes, that." Arthur nodded curtly, before venting to the stubborn young man he raised. "Alfred, you have gotten through HALF of it---what's wrong with you?"
"If Salome is here, she will share this stuff with me." He pouted, taking another big bite. "Besides, you are the rude one who embarrassed her in front of all other nations, you know she have a little inferiority complex---she gets emotional with your blunt choice of words!"
"Well, it's not as bad as your tasteless tv programs. " Arthur countered, keeping the dish far from Alfred's reach, who is about to grab another. "Isn't there a time when she was lobbying around your place and hurling rocks on your windows around 2007."
Alfred turns a bit blue, almost as if he choked on a piece"---if this is the incident about her medical schools reputation in that show, I told her it's not meant to be taken seriously!...and we apologized anyway...although seriously.."
Arthur's gaze is still unwavering, holding the plate of bibingka farther away. "No, I'm referring to the one where her female President is called a slut."
"---you weren't offended when we made yours posed as Britney Spears..now let me have a last piece...and we make fun of our Presidents now and then, she is just not used to the humor sometimes!"
"It's a different thing, seriously Alfred...and no, you are getting fat already..." Arthur sounds like he is about to start a lecture, "You know she is one of the few of her former Presidents that she really respects. You even told her way back in 1986 how proud you are having taught her Democracy, she never felt so proud being a nation after that." he continued, "---and I mean, it can be anything, but a slut? That's a slap to her face."
The bespectacled blond frowned, nearly losing his appetite. He raised one gloved hand and extended his arm towards the plate which is now held way back on Arthur's shoulder. But the englishman slapped him soundly on his wrist.
"Ow! Arty, C'mon!" he whined, forcing himself towards the plate. Good lord, the man is driven nuts by her pancake-like delicacy. He got to try a piece before Alfred eats them all.
Just when he thought it will never end, Alfred abruptly stops and took a few steps back, with a silly grin creeping on his face.
He does not like this.
"I knew it!" he bellowed, his grin growing even wider.
"Knew what, exactly?"
"You just pretend to be annoyed with her--- but you really CARE for Sally, don't you?"
Arthur starts to blush scarlet, and averted his gaze from the American's smiling blues. damn it Alfred. "You git! I-I was simply concerned! That's all to it!"
"Simply concerned, huh?" Alfred sounds like he almost purred, that it ran a cold chill in his spine."You remembered some key points in her history like you actually have read it---"
"---I update myself with what goes around the world and its state of affairs, so of course, I do!" he shot back, growing redder by the minute, like that of Antonio's Tomato. Antonio does not have a tomato at that moment, but for comparison's sake..whatever xp
"---you probably scanned through my stuff in the computer again." Alfred countered amusingly, "I mean, that issues with the tv shows is not exactly world conference material, you know?"
"......=_="
"8D!"
Flustered, Arthur rubbed his arms uncomfortably and folded them across his chest. "Fine! I admit looking her up in your computer. Do I have to remind you when out of anger she sent you THAT virus, and you are a moron to accept it because you think she is terribly sorry and is declaring (once again) her undying love for you?"
"Do not change the topic!"
*sound of chomping*
Arthur's stared wide-eyed...at an empty plate in Alfred's hands. "Y-you tricked me! The food, that is the last one!!!!!----AHHH!!"
The two commenced their silly brawl as Antonio watched, letting out a heavy sigh. These two nations are terribly dysfunctional to each other, very dysfunctional. It's not like his relationship to his "children" are any better, but they are NOT this kind of violent.
...Mexico though, cannot get over losing to his sister during boxing matches.
"---ask Antonio to bake you bibingkas!"
"Bloody Hell, No!"
And...he wants to tell them that the Bibingka is not entirely of Spanish origin. A lot of nations have visited Salome way back before he restricted them from coming, and she managed to learn and adapt several of their cuisines and blend it with his own. He have a feeling it might be from his older brother Gabriel (Portugal) who brought the delicacy---called a 'bebinca', to the small trusting nation-tan. Salome have a hard time discerning her 'tiyo' and 'papa' apart when she was younger---despite the other having much longer hair, an obvious smirk, a small mole below the cheek and sporting a more rugged look. The visits are always embarrassing.
"Oi Antonio, how can you mistook mi sobrina Las Islas Filipinas as a boy?" he will say, tickling her sides playfully while she giggles. "She is just so cute!"
"Uhm---"
"Do you know your Papa is supposed to look for Spice Islands?"
Really embarrassing.
"oh, pour l'amour d'un dieu ! Antonio, at least do something!" Francis finally spoke, having been bored for the past few hours in the conference until the young exuberant Salome bursts in, generating a strange mix of comic relief and drama at the room. Antonio watched helplessly as the big dust cloud formed between Arthur and Alfred.
Well, it seems he just have to do it himself then.
With a flick of golden locks, he proclaimed at the rolling dust cloud, "If you two won't stop fighting like some uncultured apes, I will 'ave Philippines for myself."
"Oh no, you don't!" the two replied in unison, gearing into full stop. Alfred and Arthur both looked like a total mess, but that didn't stop them confronting the amorous frenchman.
"How about it, L'Espagne?" he said teasingly, casually placing his right elbow over Antonio's shoulder, who shot him an equal hard glare.
"---you know, I think I'm glad I restricted her trading in 1600's"
"And WHAT are you planning exactly, Francis?" Arthur demanded, "This is not the time to think what goes between your legs, doesn't it?"
"I also think it's not the time, to 'ave a silly kid's fight over Philippin' Pancakes, oui?" he argued, a response the Englishman is not expecting. In fact, Francis seems serious (for the time being). "Salome is emotional--she 'ave an inferiority complex, she ez to sensitive blah blah. Like you ze never know the woman you all both raised and loved! Except you Angleterre...you can't handle a passionate woman."
"WHAT?"
He turned to Antonio, his arm still lazily on the Spaniard when he firmly poked him on the cheek. "You, ever since you knew Salome ez a female, you almost smothered her by limiting her interaction with other nations and intimidated her with your religion. No wonder the mademoiselle got the culture shock of her life when you gave her away to this idiot, Amerique!"
"Hey!"
"Look it's not like I have a choice! and...are you done now, Francis?" Antonio replied irritatingly, the frenchman's arm is getting a little too comfortably close to his head.
"Non!" he exclaimed, "What I'm trying to say 'ere is, it's because of you two, she is what she is---quite an odd yet delightful mix of irony. You 'ave gave her your conservative catholic views and Al's---his moments."
"MOMENTS? What do you mean 'moments'?" Alfred reacted, "Like---you can do any better?"
"Of course!" Francis beamed, "Unlike you two, I know how to treat women."
"No, I mean parenting >8)"
"Oui, that goes without question!" with a smirk, he winked to Arthur, who quickly turned scarlet. "--and a complete family dynamic too. Don't you agree?"
"FRANCIS!"
"I didn't say anything yet, Angleterre~"
Oh god, it was Alfred's turn to facepalm. He didn't needed to be reminded the origins of his younger brother...what's his name again? Ah, Canada. No wonder he turns out to be so----awkward. Just the thought of them raising him....
Antonio is at least partially relieved that Francis have rid of his arm over his shoulder and who have now turned his attention to taunting and flirting with Arthur. The spaniard is not entirely listening any more to their arguments as he slowly sets in to his thoughts----
"Antonio, maybe our children can 'ave a dinner date!" Francis said, as he tried to get Arthur NOT to strangle him. "Didn't you said once she loves to see lots of snow and polar bears?"
"Just....stop talking nonsense you wine-drinking bastard!" Arthur shouted, holding the frenchman by the collar now.
"Diplomatic relations! Diplomatic relations, mon ami!"
"I don't know---I guess so." He murmured, as if he is only talking to himself and not paying attention to the two arguing. Granted, his relationship with Salome is on better terms now after all these years, but they haven't really been close to each other for a long time. She no longer speaks the spanish tongue, at least not as fluently--- and it was probably her last act of defiance. Nearly 3 centuries worth of nurturing her, teaching her---- and when Alfred came and claims her for mere half a century----she ends up speaking english better than the American.
As of late, he tried to remedy that by sending her spanish telenovelas secretly via her older brother Mexico, who now and then stops for a visit. The latter made a slip few years back when he told him she can't have enough of his soap operas, especially Marimar.
"Antonio---"
"Oh, it's you Alfred" he didn't notice the bespectacled blonde is already beside him, trying to avoid the commotion "You shouldn't eat all those Bebincas."
"Can't help it---it's not like Arthur will finish it all for himself!"
"Hm.. yes."
Silence
Ah, This was probably one of those long quiet awkward moments he remembered when he and Antonio tried to settle their hostilities in 1898's Treaty of Paris. While most of the other nations under his care have been acquired smoothly without incident, the major conflict arises with one nation--- his Philippines.
---
December 1898 - Francis's bitchin' pad Paris
"I had mi hija Las Islas Filipinas for nearly 3 centuries!" Antonio argued, "Manila have surrendered after the armistice as our superiors agreed earlier---you can't demand her as a war conquest!"
Undeterred, he flashed his hero smile, saying, "This can be resolved, I'll pay you $20 M for your troubles!"
"...." Antonio knew he has no more choice as he have already lost the war, he nodded mutely.
"Yes! and from now on, he will be called Philippines, and I'll annex the islands all within his region---wait, I will call him Philippine Islands then!"
"---he's a she, Alfred and...please she does not know---never get into a fight with her, not now."
Alfred is aptly distracted staring at a giant world map, and wasn't able to hear Antonio's warning.
---
"Oh---" Alfred noticed something on the floor a little behind him and picked it up. Salome might have dropped it on the way out. It was one of her religious pendants Antonio will make her wear while he was raising her to be a devout Catholic. It became a part of her daily habit, her tradition---she always wore them and will give anyone a severe look shall someone asks her to remove it.
Last time he have held the pendant on his hand, it was covered with blood.
Even if I fall, Alfred Jones---we will keep standing up until to the last man, I will not surrender
It was the first time he really actually met Salome.
---- + ---- + ---- + ---- + ---- ---- + ---- Philippine-American War ---- + ---- ---- + ---- ---- + ---- ---- + ----
WARNING: This is told in TWO sequences. Present scene is 1901, and flash backs in 1898 .
March 1901
"How can you call yourself a hero?" the filipino insurgent shouted angrily, refusing to surrender alongside his weary general. "You are a liar, you used the need of my people for freedom---you are all just interested taking the islands! You are no different from Espana!"
God, not another one. Alfred thought. He positioned the rifle at his hand. With the Filipino general and his soldiers having resorted to guerrilla warfare and killing his precious time, he can't afford to spare this one standing few feet in front of him. They are savages, his superiors drilled to him, those who above ten and able to hold weapons are to be shot----
Damn, it does not have to be this way.
---
It was May 1898, He remembered the day he was with the Admiral, when he first heard of the young nation called Las Islas Filipinas. The nation's struggle for freedom is currently being led by a general of the revolution called Emilio, who also have been elected by his men to be the current President of the nation. They have been communicating through telegrams as of late and they will finally meet him in his home base in Cavite.
Enthusiastically of course, Alfred can't wait to visit a nation he just heard of existed. It's the tropics after all, and he would give anything to spend christmases with pristine beaches and dry weather. But then he wasn't expecting that the air is going to be more heavy and humid that he eventually have to take his jacket and blazer off, loosening his tie and rolling the sleeves of his white polo shirt up to his elbows, by the time he arrived there, he looks like a sweltering college prep school boy.
The meeting went rather well, with the admiral assuring the general that all the telegrams sent were true, and that they are willing to protect the natives and free the nation from the yoke of Spain. Alfred proudly followed it---that being exceedingly well off as regards in territory, revenue, and resources and therefore, he has no needs for colonies. Rest assured, he added, that to never doubt that their independence will be guaranteed by him, the United States of America.
He finds it strange that he never have met Philippines yet, save for a young solider that seem to accompany the general everywhere he goes. He finds it a bit strange, almost to the point of creepy---that the young man will constantly stare and smile at him.
He must be that AWESOME.
===Salome's entry May 1898===
Emilio have told me to never give up hope and continue the revolution, even after he was exiled by Papa in Hong Kong. I keep receiving news: There is a new nation super power who is helping my other brothers gain the upper hand with their independence from Papa, and Emilio have been talking to their consuls and the Admiral who defeated Papa in Manila Bay----he is called America. He is negotiating to them for my sake.
He told me that it might be necessary if I introduce myself to America, and to be properly dressed as a woman. How long was it? 2 years? I told Emilio that I wasn't ready yet---I made a firm resolve to leave Papa's ideal 'Maria Clara' image of me behind to take up the mantle of the revolution along side my people as a man under the pseudonym of Juan Carriedo---If that's what it take to get his respect: to prove to him that I can survive this war, win my people's freedom and eventually be recognized as an independent nation. Only then, will I, Maria Consolacion Salome delos Santos y Carriedo, will be a woman once again.
After much anticipation, my general have finally arrived to Cavite to hold a brief meeting with the Admiral who will also arrive shortly. I dressed myself in a full proper cavalry regiment attire for the formalities, but yet I can't help but throw myself to him like a young woman who have longed to be reunited with her long lost lover. The resistance that accompanied me starts to chuckle, as it might have been very awkward if others (especially the Americans) have seen us like this. Emilio is pleased that I'm still holding on, and after talking to his political advisors, instructed the rest save for me, to leave.
I cannot forget the first time I have laid my eyes on America, he introduced himself as Alfred F. Jones. Dios Mio! He is tall, fair, with blond hair that shone like the sun. He got the bluest and the most lively-looking pair of eyes I have ever seen in any nation I have met (thanks to papa, NOT that much). I find it amusing that he puts up a confident front and such boundless energy---despite looking like he will faint any moment with the warm humid weather. I almost giggled when he exclaimed that our independence is guaranteed and THEN he strikes a pose with a ridiculous thumbs-up sign--- his admiral looks embarrassed! I didn't fare better either, my general shot me a quick glare---I didn't realize I was already staring and giggling at Alfred F. Jones that long. It was at that moment he noticed me and that our eyes met. He is probably surprised why I was acting like that, and I forgot that he didn't know who I am. After looking at me oddly for about a few seconds, he smiled back and assured me it's alright. I never felt my heart beat faster, and my face burning with embarrassment---I think I have fallen for Alfred F.Jones, and he might be the hero I have been waiting for all these years.
After the meeting, Emilio reprimanded me gently to mind my manners next time we meet. And that I should have listened and dressed up as a woman if I'm going to act the way I did earlier. I was also reminded grimly, that it's not the time to be infatuated with a man.
===end of entry===
However after the meeting, the admiral warned Alfred as he was also cautiously told by the US Navy--- to never make untoward commitments to the young nation and its forces. They did promise to free the people from Spanish oppression, but they never said anything about independence.
It's not like the nation-tan was there when he said it, right? Alfred asked him. The admiral did not reply.
In fact she was, ever loyal to her General's side, her actions nearly giving away her true gender when Alfred performed his 'hero' antics. She refused to be called by any other name but Juan Carriedo.
----
The rain start to pour in the fields of Palanan, Alfred swore he have met the young brown filipino soldier from before---but he can never be so sure, they all look alike with their matching uniforms, and he can't tell with all the blood and his sustained injuries.
"It's complicated---you are too young to understand politics." he replied curtly, his blue steely gaze affixed to the Filipino, "I have my orders from my boss, the cessation must be of the whole archipelago or none*"
"There is nothing to understand America---no, Alfred F.Jones, you have us believe like fools!" Salome cried out, her bloodied hands trembling as she tightened her grip on the rifle. It already have ran out of ammunition, but the american does not know that. Emilio then placed a palm on her left shoulder, shaking his head and opening his mouth saying a wordless 'no'. She ignored him.
Alfred lowered his rifle slightly and stared at him with great disbelief. No one have called him by his true name and his real name.
"Just who the hell are you, soldier?!"
"We have met before, Alfred. In fact, so many times already." he said in a low hurtful voice, "You know I will never leave my General's side. Do you remember?"
He tried to refresh, the series of battles, the encounters with the General and the insurgents, he seem to remember vaguely the young Filipino that was at his side all the time. This brought him to that incident during the capture of Malolos, the Capital of the Philippine Republic in Luzon. Emilio and his men were driven out to hiding, but his young aide still tries to put up a fight. He can remember the anger and pain in that young man's eyes, as the General's men tried to pull him away.
"It is pointless to fight now, you have to save yourself---Juan!"
Juan? Juan Carriedo?
Isn't he the same smiling young man he met in Cavite?
---
It was already June 12 1898, Las Islas Filipinas has finally declare his independence early that evening. He have heard the jubilant crowd sing to their National Anthem, as the General have unfurled and waved their flag for the first time on the balcony of his ancestral home. Alfred knows that triumphant feeling--- after all, he have been a colony who struggled to gain his own independence.
Speaking of which, he missed Philip again. Yes, he thinks it will be neat to call him that---as Las Islas Filipinas is incredibly wordy and even if he translated it to Philippine Islands or Philippine Islets, or simply Philippines----it's just to long. He wants to congratulate him, most of the islands are now in Emilio's control and they are already a step closer to claiming the heart of the Fatherland, Manila.
Right now, Philip's superiors are signing the declaration of independence while one of his men have to bear witness to the event. In other words, boring stuff. He have to wait across the hall.
It was while walking around the hall that he heard a grunt and a loud thud, and saw a young man bolting out from another room who almost fell to the ground---until he caught him.
"Hey fella, are you alright?" he scooped the young man up, who he recognized as one of Emilio's men.
"Alfredo!" the soldier spoke, his voice a little pitchy and rasped. Alfred quickly recognized him as the General's aide and---apparently still in the stage of mid-puberty. He didn't know he was that young.
"Heh, just call me Alfred!" he beamed, looking at him. The soldier looks embarrassed, almost flustered. The american never encountered someone in the force this awkward. And wait, is that a flower clip on his head?!?
"Is that---"
"I-I don't know how it got there!" he stammered, quickly throwing it away.
"Oh really."
"YES!" his face turning into bright red, "I was in fact, looking for something when this got onto my head!"
"Hmm...Okay, if you say so----um" Alfred snaps his fingers, "---what's your name?"
The young soldier paused for a few seconds, "It's....Juan Carriedo y dela Cruz. You can call me Juan."
"Well Juan, pleased to meet you." he said, as they both shake hands. "If you come across Philippines, tell him I'm sending my congratulations."
===Salome's entry June 12 1898===
Finally, my day have arrived. I cannot phantom words to describe this overwhelming sense of relief that for long last---everything will be over. With most of my territories free from Papa's clutches, Emilio decided it's about time to establish the Philippine government. My government. The independent government of Philippines. He told me that with most of the war over, I can be myself again for the time being. Their motherland.
Keeping my promise, I finally changed back wearing my formal clothing. I didn't realize that how time have passed by and I have quite grown as a woman. My hair though, is still rough and short after chopping most of it back in 1896. I have to put a flower clip near my ear to make it appear longer. With that minor wardrobe malfunction aside, from that moment onwards, everything seems to happen like a dream: My men, the revolutionaries, the officers and the political advisors; all having gathered near the balcony---were in awe and silence have slowly filled the room, with all their eyes set on me. They have shown me my flag that was flown all the way from Hong Kong. Seeing the colors, the stars that represents the islands and the sun---I can't help but break down and cry...for in just a few minutes, my General will take it out in the balcony, unfurl and wave it in front of the masses.
They told me to no longer cry, for they have another surprise for me.
And the marching band started to play outside, and for the first time---they played the most beautiful medley I ever heard
Bayang Magiliw, Perlas ng Silanganan...
How I wish for this moment to never end. I just have to hold a little longer, just few more months---I will be completely free.
===end of entry===
---
"What are you waiting for, Alfred? Shoot him!"
Alfred didn't realize that his General is already standing behind him, "Shoot that bastard down before he does anything!" he barked.
"Juan---"
This is not what I wanted, Juan. I'm just following orders. W-we didn't promise independence...not yet...I'm sorry...
"Juan---shit! Just surrender already!" Alfred shouted, he is starting to sound like he is almost begging than commanding the soldier to lay down his arms.
"I won't---not for my people!" Salome screamed, despite being mortally wounded she still shield the exhausted General, lifting the rifle in front of her. Then the unexpected happened, an actual bullet is STILL lodged in the rifle and she let's out a premature shot---instantly causing chaos in both sides. Alfred's General quickly grabbed the American's gun and shot the soldier at the arm. The remaining insurgents, seeing her injured, broke from their defense to protect her.
Everything is starting to spin around, chaos everywhere. Before Alfred knew it, someone delivered a blow on his head. As he lay trampled on the ground, he can hear the insurgents battlefield cry.
"Protect the Motherland! Protect the Motherland!"
"Get her and the General out of here---at all cost---she have to live----l"
Motherland? ---?
Laying beside him is a dead comrade when he heard a piercing cry from behind. Instinctively, Alfred quickly grabbed the rifle from the dead man's hands and shielded himself from a bolo that was about to crack his head. He can't tell from all the chaos to who the blurry attacker might be.
They are starting to look all the same-----those brown men...
Freeing his one leg, he lounged over and quickly gave his attacker a swift kick on the stomach---sending the soldier quickly staggering on his feet. This time Alfred didn't hesitate, and starts shooting several rounds in succession.
The figure still emerged, although bloodied, staggering with the bolo still in hand.
It was then Alfred realized who it was, "Juan!"
How can Juan stand this? Is he even human? He was weakened enough, but he was still charging towards him...with the bolo starting to carelessly slip from his grip.
"I am---not Juan" he breathed heavily, standing but a couple of feet in front of him. "Alfred Jones, you----I---"
The insurgents starts to run towards Juan's direction, while some of them starts to shield Emilio, trying to find a route to escape. Everything then starts to run in slow motion, a hazy blur of white, blues and hail of gun fires and shouts as men in both sides starts to fall around them. At that moment, what stand in the middle of that chaos is Alfred F. Jones, the personification of America and a badly injured Juan Carriedo, the young General's aide that will fight to the death for what he believed in.
Juan staggered, trying to reach towards him. It was when Alfred noticed that the shots have torn open Juan's uniform, he can see a tight blood stained bind---he saw...
"I am Las Islas Filipinas....Maria Salome delos Santos" she gasped, gathering every inch of strength she can muster "------America, I am Philippines. I am the Motherland."
He dropped his rifle, oh dear lord.
I will never leave my General's side---
The young soldier repressing the urge to laugh at him during the meeting of their superiors at Cavite.
That young man who fell and stumbled into his arms, with that ridiculous flower on the head after the Declaration of Independence...
It's all starting to make sense now.
"----Philippines..."
"I need to do this----to protect myself, to protect my people. You understand that don't you?"
With that, she collapsed to his arms.
"Jua---Salome!" He cried, holding her. He can see the insurgents closing in. But that does not matter now.
"Even if I fall, Alfred Jones---" she choked, clutching his unform. "---even if the First Philippine Republic falls----we will keep standing up until to the last man, I will not surrender...you can have my lands, but you can never have my spirit...my people's spirit--"
It was probably painful regret that she is seeing in those luminous blue eyes, those eyes that always look at her full of life---full of promises...but he never knew what was going on, or who she was----he was just following orders.
To think she was a fool to fall in love with him.
Before she passes out, it seems she heard him whisper--- I will make this up to you somehow,---Philippines
Then everything turned black.
-----------
To be continued...with the actual fic (with some addtl flashback to be dropped about for closure). TOOK ME A WEEK HURRR. Will resume normal bi-weekly updates next week ._.
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My love for bibingka galapong is so damned obvious that I JUST HAD to give Antonio a pointless flash back :_; and Gabriel/Portugal is by someone's OC in nationslash sometime ago. Man, my memory is just...what. I dunno, somehow I remembered Maes Hughes '3'
Silly References through out the prologue:
Max Fried Chicken! Ha! *points to spring chicken in Al's foodgasm flashback*
VAF um yeah >_> *Al, it's not just the food*
I love you Virus!
Marimar...
i dunno what else..too many layered flashbacks much? SORRY....TOO MUCH HISTORY I HAVE TO MESH WITH FICTION T_T
WAS it commodore or admiral dewey? Some statements refer him as commodore early during the battle of manila bay...and later on as admiral...ahh who cares. Also even if Aguinaldo is already president...somewhere in the story, I want to refer him as the general...idk...
Notes (wow, I managed to actually research):
*Al's and Iggy's argument: Desperate Housewives and The Daily Show with John Stewart. This is like 2007-ish.
*Chapter Summary based on the Battle of Manila: Aguinaldo sent an emissary to General Elwell Otis to sue for peace, saying "the firing on our side the night before had been against my order." Otis replied: "Fighting having begun, must go on to the grim end." Aguinaldo then sent a telegram to all "local chiefs" informing them of the hostilities.
*Alfred's Flashback w/his initial meet with Salome in 1901 = On March 23, 1901 General Frederick Funston and his troops captured Aguinaldo in Palanan, Isabela, with the help of some Filipinos (called the Macabebe Scouts after their home locale) who had joined the Americans' side. The Americans pretended to be captives of the Macabebes, who were dressed in Philippine Army uniforms. Once Funston and his “captors” entered Aguinaldo's camp, they immediately fell upon the guards and quickly overwhelmed them and the weary Aguinaldo.
*The cessation must be of the whole archipelago or none - October 28 - McKinley cables new instructions to Paris delegation: "the cession must be of the whole archipelago or none" (Mckinley is bloody weird as he recounted he received the orders 'from God' in a dream.)
(Even after this, resistance continued up to the last Filipino General, Miguel Malvar---buttt there is the notorious balangiga massacre, guerilla wars and moro rebellion phase...BUT WHATEVER, I don't want to make it to heavy =_____=
and since Aguinaldo stands as the 'leader' of the country at that time, it makes sense Salome has to be with him until the fall of the first republic.)
Of course, I wouldn't totally go on accurate because it's APH, its history on anti-depressants! although i got depressed typing this...five days...FIVE DAYSSS
I totally would want someone to draw a scene between Soldier!Alfred and CavalryCrossdress!Salome, similar to Al's scene for his indepedence to Iggy...but I think I don't like the uniforms at that period. >_>
I use the word totally too much. I'm not quite satisfied how this turns out.
PS. I'm looking for beta, story helper idk, reach me at utentsu@gmail.com
P.P.S. thanks for reading =_= sorry for the eyereyp.
Longest Holiday - Pt.01 HERE
Longest Holiday - Pt.02 HERE
Longest Holiday - Pt.03 HERE
Longest Holiday - (Antonio's Special Interlude) HERE
Title: Longest Holiday Chapter Ever (Special Interlude - A Hero's Conflict)
Author: silentside
Characters: OC!Female PH-tan (Ma.Salome) in flashback, America, Spain (real time and flash back wise), Finally a Tsundere!England and France being France. Some Actual Filipino Heroes...
Rating: T-ish
Genre: Light Romance / Drama / slight violence / Historical Setting (Spanish-American/Philippine-American War)
Warning: Probably grammar, but you can overlook it with the story 8Db Probably inaccuracy, plenty of time skips. Some bad humor at the prologue. I fail making Francis sound French....whatever that means. Some cursing. Too many warnings.
LONGER than Antonio's interlude. By 10 times.
Chapter Summary: "The fighting, having begun, must go on the grim end." Alfred F. Jones looked up from his clasped hands, overhearing from a distance the message his General conveyed to a Filipino officer. When the officer left, the General starts to approach towards his direction, he can see the words forming soundlessly.
He felt that this will happen eventually--- the war in Manila finally have begun.
---
Special Interlude: A Hero's Conflict
October 2009
Back at present time...
"Alfred F.Jones!" Arthur snapped, turning around furiously to Alfred, who for a split second disappeared at the conversation and was at the desk behind him. Antonio let out a relieved sigh, folding his arms and nodded to the taller blonde's direction.
"---did you drop him on the head when he was younger?" he pointed out.
Arthur facepalmed.
"No, no...sometimes its just his attention span." he grumbled, then his face heated up again. "DON'T EAT THEM! THOSE ARE NOT YOURS! Salome gave them to me!"
"Umff---Athurr if offum!" Alfred replied between a mouthful, his expression reveling at the bibingka galapong, it's slightly burnt taste, the softness of its texture and the saltiness from the egg slices all together accented by the shrivels of coconut. It all blends to a delicious symphony of flavors in his mouth; and that if there is such thing as a foodgasm, he is certainly climaxing right now.
"Oh, dear mother of mercy." Arthur facepalmed again, the idiot is starting to drool.
Having been raised and taught by Antonio, most of Salome's local dishes are of Spanish origin. He likes her desserts the best, and how she added a uniqueness to each dish. Who knew she can make a spring chicken, so tasty and not greasy? Or the time when unlike her south american siblings, she changed the idea of Antonio's guacamole and made a refreshing shake out of it instead? He thought it's so freaking weird, but when he tasted it he changed his mind completely.
Which is why he wouldn't mind dropping by now and then with his visiting arm forces, despite some mixed reactions from her superiors :/
"Arthur, you really need to taste some!" he cheerfully offered, with a half-chomped down bibingka on one hand and a plateful on the other. Frowning, the smaller blond snatched the dish furiously.
"Will you stop eating, those Coconut ric--er---Filipino pancakes?" Arthur retorted, "Salome gave them to me as uhh---consuu...sul---" Arthur starts snapping his fingers, the words Salome uses tends to be long and complicated at times. "Antonio you raised Salome, what's the word?"
"Oh, it's consuelo---it means compensation." Antonio replied softly
"Yes, that." Arthur nodded curtly, before venting to the stubborn young man he raised. "Alfred, you have gotten through HALF of it---what's wrong with you?"
"If Salome is here, she will share this stuff with me." He pouted, taking another big bite. "Besides, you are the rude one who embarrassed her in front of all other nations, you know she have a little inferiority complex---she gets emotional with your blunt choice of words!"
"Well, it's not as bad as your tasteless tv programs. " Arthur countered, keeping the dish far from Alfred's reach, who is about to grab another. "Isn't there a time when she was lobbying around your place and hurling rocks on your windows around 2007."
Alfred turns a bit blue, almost as if he choked on a piece"---if this is the incident about her medical schools reputation in that show, I told her it's not meant to be taken seriously!...and we apologized anyway...although seriously.."
Arthur's gaze is still unwavering, holding the plate of bibingka farther away. "No, I'm referring to the one where her female President is called a slut."
"---you weren't offended when we made yours posed as Britney Spears..now let me have a last piece...and we make fun of our Presidents now and then, she is just not used to the humor sometimes!"
"It's a different thing, seriously Alfred...and no, you are getting fat already..." Arthur sounds like he is about to start a lecture, "You know she is one of the few of her former Presidents that she really respects. You even told her way back in 1986 how proud you are having taught her Democracy, she never felt so proud being a nation after that." he continued, "---and I mean, it can be anything, but a slut? That's a slap to her face."
The bespectacled blond frowned, nearly losing his appetite. He raised one gloved hand and extended his arm towards the plate which is now held way back on Arthur's shoulder. But the englishman slapped him soundly on his wrist.
"Ow! Arty, C'mon!" he whined, forcing himself towards the plate. Good lord, the man is driven nuts by her pancake-like delicacy. He got to try a piece before Alfred eats them all.
Just when he thought it will never end, Alfred abruptly stops and took a few steps back, with a silly grin creeping on his face.
He does not like this.
"I knew it!" he bellowed, his grin growing even wider.
"Knew what, exactly?"
"You just pretend to be annoyed with her--- but you really CARE for Sally, don't you?"
Arthur starts to blush scarlet, and averted his gaze from the American's smiling blues. damn it Alfred. "You git! I-I was simply concerned! That's all to it!"
"Simply concerned, huh?" Alfred sounds like he almost purred, that it ran a cold chill in his spine."You remembered some key points in her history like you actually have read it---"
"---I update myself with what goes around the world and its state of affairs, so of course, I do!" he shot back, growing redder by the minute, like that of Antonio's Tomato. Antonio does not have a tomato at that moment, but for comparison's sake..whatever xp
"---you probably scanned through my stuff in the computer again." Alfred countered amusingly, "I mean, that issues with the tv shows is not exactly world conference material, you know?"
"......=_="
"8D!"
Flustered, Arthur rubbed his arms uncomfortably and folded them across his chest. "Fine! I admit looking her up in your computer. Do I have to remind you when out of anger she sent you THAT virus, and you are a moron to accept it because you think she is terribly sorry and is declaring (once again) her undying love for you?"
"Do not change the topic!"
*sound of chomping*
Arthur's stared wide-eyed...at an empty plate in Alfred's hands. "Y-you tricked me! The food, that is the last one!!!!!----AHHH!!"
The two commenced their silly brawl as Antonio watched, letting out a heavy sigh. These two nations are terribly dysfunctional to each other, very dysfunctional. It's not like his relationship to his "children" are any better, but they are NOT this kind of violent.
...Mexico though, cannot get over losing to his sister during boxing matches.
"---ask Antonio to bake you bibingkas!"
"Bloody Hell, No!"
And...he wants to tell them that the Bibingka is not entirely of Spanish origin. A lot of nations have visited Salome way back before he restricted them from coming, and she managed to learn and adapt several of their cuisines and blend it with his own. He have a feeling it might be from his older brother Gabriel (Portugal) who brought the delicacy---called a 'bebinca', to the small trusting nation-tan. Salome have a hard time discerning her 'tiyo' and 'papa' apart when she was younger---despite the other having much longer hair, an obvious smirk, a small mole below the cheek and sporting a more rugged look. The visits are always embarrassing.
"Oi Antonio, how can you mistook mi sobrina Las Islas Filipinas as a boy?" he will say, tickling her sides playfully while she giggles. "She is just so cute!"
"Uhm---"
"Do you know your Papa is supposed to look for Spice Islands?"
Really embarrassing.
"oh, pour l'amour d'un dieu ! Antonio, at least do something!" Francis finally spoke, having been bored for the past few hours in the conference until the young exuberant Salome bursts in, generating a strange mix of comic relief and drama at the room. Antonio watched helplessly as the big dust cloud formed between Arthur and Alfred.
Well, it seems he just have to do it himself then.
With a flick of golden locks, he proclaimed at the rolling dust cloud, "If you two won't stop fighting like some uncultured apes, I will 'ave Philippines for myself."
"Oh no, you don't!" the two replied in unison, gearing into full stop. Alfred and Arthur both looked like a total mess, but that didn't stop them confronting the amorous frenchman.
"How about it, L'Espagne?" he said teasingly, casually placing his right elbow over Antonio's shoulder, who shot him an equal hard glare.
"---you know, I think I'm glad I restricted her trading in 1600's"
"And WHAT are you planning exactly, Francis?" Arthur demanded, "This is not the time to think what goes between your legs, doesn't it?"
"I also think it's not the time, to 'ave a silly kid's fight over Philippin' Pancakes, oui?" he argued, a response the Englishman is not expecting. In fact, Francis seems serious (for the time being). "Salome is emotional--she 'ave an inferiority complex, she ez to sensitive blah blah. Like you ze never know the woman you all both raised and loved! Except you Angleterre...you can't handle a passionate woman."
"WHAT?"
He turned to Antonio, his arm still lazily on the Spaniard when he firmly poked him on the cheek. "You, ever since you knew Salome ez a female, you almost smothered her by limiting her interaction with other nations and intimidated her with your religion. No wonder the mademoiselle got the culture shock of her life when you gave her away to this idiot, Amerique!"
"Hey!"
"Look it's not like I have a choice! and...are you done now, Francis?" Antonio replied irritatingly, the frenchman's arm is getting a little too comfortably close to his head.
"Non!" he exclaimed, "What I'm trying to say 'ere is, it's because of you two, she is what she is---quite an odd yet delightful mix of irony. You 'ave gave her your conservative catholic views and Al's---his moments."
"MOMENTS? What do you mean 'moments'?" Alfred reacted, "Like---you can do any better?"
"Of course!" Francis beamed, "Unlike you two, I know how to treat women."
"No, I mean parenting >8)"
"Oui, that goes without question!" with a smirk, he winked to Arthur, who quickly turned scarlet. "--and a complete family dynamic too. Don't you agree?"
"FRANCIS!"
"I didn't say anything yet, Angleterre~"
Oh god, it was Alfred's turn to facepalm. He didn't needed to be reminded the origins of his younger brother...what's his name again? Ah, Canada. No wonder he turns out to be so----awkward. Just the thought of them raising him....
Antonio is at least partially relieved that Francis have rid of his arm over his shoulder and who have now turned his attention to taunting and flirting with Arthur. The spaniard is not entirely listening any more to their arguments as he slowly sets in to his thoughts----
"Antonio, maybe our children can 'ave a dinner date!" Francis said, as he tried to get Arthur NOT to strangle him. "Didn't you said once she loves to see lots of snow and polar bears?"
"Just....stop talking nonsense you wine-drinking bastard!" Arthur shouted, holding the frenchman by the collar now.
"Diplomatic relations! Diplomatic relations, mon ami!"
"I don't know---I guess so." He murmured, as if he is only talking to himself and not paying attention to the two arguing. Granted, his relationship with Salome is on better terms now after all these years, but they haven't really been close to each other for a long time. She no longer speaks the spanish tongue, at least not as fluently--- and it was probably her last act of defiance. Nearly 3 centuries worth of nurturing her, teaching her---- and when Alfred came and claims her for mere half a century----she ends up speaking english better than the American.
As of late, he tried to remedy that by sending her spanish telenovelas secretly via her older brother Mexico, who now and then stops for a visit. The latter made a slip few years back when he told him she can't have enough of his soap operas, especially Marimar.
"Antonio---"
"Oh, it's you Alfred" he didn't notice the bespectacled blonde is already beside him, trying to avoid the commotion "You shouldn't eat all those Bebincas."
"Can't help it---it's not like Arthur will finish it all for himself!"
"Hm.. yes."
Silence
Ah, This was probably one of those long quiet awkward moments he remembered when he and Antonio tried to settle their hostilities in 1898's Treaty of Paris. While most of the other nations under his care have been acquired smoothly without incident, the major conflict arises with one nation--- his Philippines.
---
December 1898 - Francis's bitchin' pad Paris
"I had mi hija Las Islas Filipinas for nearly 3 centuries!" Antonio argued, "Manila have surrendered after the armistice as our superiors agreed earlier---you can't demand her as a war conquest!"
Undeterred, he flashed his hero smile, saying, "This can be resolved, I'll pay you $20 M for your troubles!"
"...." Antonio knew he has no more choice as he have already lost the war, he nodded mutely.
"Yes! and from now on, he will be called Philippines, and I'll annex the islands all within his region---wait, I will call him Philippine Islands then!"
"---he's a she, Alfred and...please she does not know---never get into a fight with her, not now."
Alfred is aptly distracted staring at a giant world map, and wasn't able to hear Antonio's warning.
---
"Oh---" Alfred noticed something on the floor a little behind him and picked it up. Salome might have dropped it on the way out. It was one of her religious pendants Antonio will make her wear while he was raising her to be a devout Catholic. It became a part of her daily habit, her tradition---she always wore them and will give anyone a severe look shall someone asks her to remove it.
Last time he have held the pendant on his hand, it was covered with blood.
Even if I fall, Alfred Jones---we will keep standing up until to the last man, I will not surrender
It was the first time he really actually met Salome.
---- + ---- + ---- + ---- + ---- ---- + ---- Philippine-American War ---- + ---- ---- + ---- ---- + ---- ---- + ----
WARNING: This is told in TWO sequences. Present scene is 1901, and flash backs in 1898 .
March 1901
"How can you call yourself a hero?" the filipino insurgent shouted angrily, refusing to surrender alongside his weary general. "You are a liar, you used the need of my people for freedom---you are all just interested taking the islands! You are no different from Espana!"
God, not another one. Alfred thought. He positioned the rifle at his hand. With the Filipino general and his soldiers having resorted to guerrilla warfare and killing his precious time, he can't afford to spare this one standing few feet in front of him. They are savages, his superiors drilled to him, those who above ten and able to hold weapons are to be shot----
Damn, it does not have to be this way.
---
It was May 1898, He remembered the day he was with the Admiral, when he first heard of the young nation called Las Islas Filipinas. The nation's struggle for freedom is currently being led by a general of the revolution called Emilio, who also have been elected by his men to be the current President of the nation. They have been communicating through telegrams as of late and they will finally meet him in his home base in Cavite.
Enthusiastically of course, Alfred can't wait to visit a nation he just heard of existed. It's the tropics after all, and he would give anything to spend christmases with pristine beaches and dry weather. But then he wasn't expecting that the air is going to be more heavy and humid that he eventually have to take his jacket and blazer off, loosening his tie and rolling the sleeves of his white polo shirt up to his elbows, by the time he arrived there, he looks like a sweltering college prep school boy.
The meeting went rather well, with the admiral assuring the general that all the telegrams sent were true, and that they are willing to protect the natives and free the nation from the yoke of Spain. Alfred proudly followed it---that being exceedingly well off as regards in territory, revenue, and resources and therefore, he has no needs for colonies. Rest assured, he added, that to never doubt that their independence will be guaranteed by him, the United States of America.
He finds it strange that he never have met Philippines yet, save for a young solider that seem to accompany the general everywhere he goes. He finds it a bit strange, almost to the point of creepy---that the young man will constantly stare and smile at him.
He must be that AWESOME.
===Salome's entry May 1898===
Emilio have told me to never give up hope and continue the revolution, even after he was exiled by Papa in Hong Kong. I keep receiving news: There is a new nation super power who is helping my other brothers gain the upper hand with their independence from Papa, and Emilio have been talking to their consuls and the Admiral who defeated Papa in Manila Bay----he is called America. He is negotiating to them for my sake.
He told me that it might be necessary if I introduce myself to America, and to be properly dressed as a woman. How long was it? 2 years? I told Emilio that I wasn't ready yet---I made a firm resolve to leave Papa's ideal 'Maria Clara' image of me behind to take up the mantle of the revolution along side my people as a man under the pseudonym of Juan Carriedo---If that's what it take to get his respect: to prove to him that I can survive this war, win my people's freedom and eventually be recognized as an independent nation. Only then, will I, Maria Consolacion Salome delos Santos y Carriedo, will be a woman once again.
After much anticipation, my general have finally arrived to Cavite to hold a brief meeting with the Admiral who will also arrive shortly. I dressed myself in a full proper cavalry regiment attire for the formalities, but yet I can't help but throw myself to him like a young woman who have longed to be reunited with her long lost lover. The resistance that accompanied me starts to chuckle, as it might have been very awkward if others (especially the Americans) have seen us like this. Emilio is pleased that I'm still holding on, and after talking to his political advisors, instructed the rest save for me, to leave.
I cannot forget the first time I have laid my eyes on America, he introduced himself as Alfred F. Jones. Dios Mio! He is tall, fair, with blond hair that shone like the sun. He got the bluest and the most lively-looking pair of eyes I have ever seen in any nation I have met (thanks to papa, NOT that much). I find it amusing that he puts up a confident front and such boundless energy---despite looking like he will faint any moment with the warm humid weather. I almost giggled when he exclaimed that our independence is guaranteed and THEN he strikes a pose with a ridiculous thumbs-up sign--- his admiral looks embarrassed! I didn't fare better either, my general shot me a quick glare---I didn't realize I was already staring and giggling at Alfred F. Jones that long. It was at that moment he noticed me and that our eyes met. He is probably surprised why I was acting like that, and I forgot that he didn't know who I am. After looking at me oddly for about a few seconds, he smiled back and assured me it's alright. I never felt my heart beat faster, and my face burning with embarrassment---I think I have fallen for Alfred F.Jones, and he might be the hero I have been waiting for all these years.
After the meeting, Emilio reprimanded me gently to mind my manners next time we meet. And that I should have listened and dressed up as a woman if I'm going to act the way I did earlier. I was also reminded grimly, that it's not the time to be infatuated with a man.
===end of entry===
However after the meeting, the admiral warned Alfred as he was also cautiously told by the US Navy--- to never make untoward commitments to the young nation and its forces. They did promise to free the people from Spanish oppression, but they never said anything about independence.
It's not like the nation-tan was there when he said it, right? Alfred asked him. The admiral did not reply.
In fact she was, ever loyal to her General's side, her actions nearly giving away her true gender when Alfred performed his 'hero' antics. She refused to be called by any other name but Juan Carriedo.
----
The rain start to pour in the fields of Palanan, Alfred swore he have met the young brown filipino soldier from before---but he can never be so sure, they all look alike with their matching uniforms, and he can't tell with all the blood and his sustained injuries.
"It's complicated---you are too young to understand politics." he replied curtly, his blue steely gaze affixed to the Filipino, "I have my orders from my boss, the cessation must be of the whole archipelago or none*"
"There is nothing to understand America---no, Alfred F.Jones, you have us believe like fools!" Salome cried out, her bloodied hands trembling as she tightened her grip on the rifle. It already have ran out of ammunition, but the american does not know that. Emilio then placed a palm on her left shoulder, shaking his head and opening his mouth saying a wordless 'no'. She ignored him.
Alfred lowered his rifle slightly and stared at him with great disbelief. No one have called him by his true name and his real name.
"Just who the hell are you, soldier?!"
"We have met before, Alfred. In fact, so many times already." he said in a low hurtful voice, "You know I will never leave my General's side. Do you remember?"
He tried to refresh, the series of battles, the encounters with the General and the insurgents, he seem to remember vaguely the young Filipino that was at his side all the time. This brought him to that incident during the capture of Malolos, the Capital of the Philippine Republic in Luzon. Emilio and his men were driven out to hiding, but his young aide still tries to put up a fight. He can remember the anger and pain in that young man's eyes, as the General's men tried to pull him away.
"It is pointless to fight now, you have to save yourself---Juan!"
Juan? Juan Carriedo?
Isn't he the same smiling young man he met in Cavite?
---
It was already June 12 1898, Las Islas Filipinas has finally declare his independence early that evening. He have heard the jubilant crowd sing to their National Anthem, as the General have unfurled and waved their flag for the first time on the balcony of his ancestral home. Alfred knows that triumphant feeling--- after all, he have been a colony who struggled to gain his own independence.
Speaking of which, he missed Philip again. Yes, he thinks it will be neat to call him that---as Las Islas Filipinas is incredibly wordy and even if he translated it to Philippine Islands or Philippine Islets, or simply Philippines----it's just to long. He wants to congratulate him, most of the islands are now in Emilio's control and they are already a step closer to claiming the heart of the Fatherland, Manila.
Right now, Philip's superiors are signing the declaration of independence while one of his men have to bear witness to the event. In other words, boring stuff. He have to wait across the hall.
It was while walking around the hall that he heard a grunt and a loud thud, and saw a young man bolting out from another room who almost fell to the ground---until he caught him.
"Hey fella, are you alright?" he scooped the young man up, who he recognized as one of Emilio's men.
"Alfredo!" the soldier spoke, his voice a little pitchy and rasped. Alfred quickly recognized him as the General's aide and---apparently still in the stage of mid-puberty. He didn't know he was that young.
"Heh, just call me Alfred!" he beamed, looking at him. The soldier looks embarrassed, almost flustered. The american never encountered someone in the force this awkward. And wait, is that a flower clip on his head?!?
"Is that---"
"I-I don't know how it got there!" he stammered, quickly throwing it away.
"Oh really."
"YES!" his face turning into bright red, "I was in fact, looking for something when this got onto my head!"
"Hmm...Okay, if you say so----um" Alfred snaps his fingers, "---what's your name?"
The young soldier paused for a few seconds, "It's....Juan Carriedo y dela Cruz. You can call me Juan."
"Well Juan, pleased to meet you." he said, as they both shake hands. "If you come across Philippines, tell him I'm sending my congratulations."
===Salome's entry June 12 1898===
Finally, my day have arrived. I cannot phantom words to describe this overwhelming sense of relief that for long last---everything will be over. With most of my territories free from Papa's clutches, Emilio decided it's about time to establish the Philippine government. My government. The independent government of Philippines. He told me that with most of the war over, I can be myself again for the time being. Their motherland.
Keeping my promise, I finally changed back wearing my formal clothing. I didn't realize that how time have passed by and I have quite grown as a woman. My hair though, is still rough and short after chopping most of it back in 1896. I have to put a flower clip near my ear to make it appear longer. With that minor wardrobe malfunction aside, from that moment onwards, everything seems to happen like a dream: My men, the revolutionaries, the officers and the political advisors; all having gathered near the balcony---were in awe and silence have slowly filled the room, with all their eyes set on me. They have shown me my flag that was flown all the way from Hong Kong. Seeing the colors, the stars that represents the islands and the sun---I can't help but break down and cry...for in just a few minutes, my General will take it out in the balcony, unfurl and wave it in front of the masses.
They told me to no longer cry, for they have another surprise for me.
And the marching band started to play outside, and for the first time---they played the most beautiful medley I ever heard
Bayang Magiliw, Perlas ng Silanganan...
How I wish for this moment to never end. I just have to hold a little longer, just few more months---I will be completely free.
===end of entry===
---
"What are you waiting for, Alfred? Shoot him!"
Alfred didn't realize that his General is already standing behind him, "Shoot that bastard down before he does anything!" he barked.
"Juan---"
This is not what I wanted, Juan. I'm just following orders. W-we didn't promise independence...not yet...I'm sorry...
"Juan---shit! Just surrender already!" Alfred shouted, he is starting to sound like he is almost begging than commanding the soldier to lay down his arms.
"I won't---not for my people!" Salome screamed, despite being mortally wounded she still shield the exhausted General, lifting the rifle in front of her. Then the unexpected happened, an actual bullet is STILL lodged in the rifle and she let's out a premature shot---instantly causing chaos in both sides. Alfred's General quickly grabbed the American's gun and shot the soldier at the arm. The remaining insurgents, seeing her injured, broke from their defense to protect her.
Everything is starting to spin around, chaos everywhere. Before Alfred knew it, someone delivered a blow on his head. As he lay trampled on the ground, he can hear the insurgents battlefield cry.
"Protect the Motherland! Protect the Motherland!"
"Get her and the General out of here---at all cost---she have to live----l"
Motherland? ---?
Laying beside him is a dead comrade when he heard a piercing cry from behind. Instinctively, Alfred quickly grabbed the rifle from the dead man's hands and shielded himself from a bolo that was about to crack his head. He can't tell from all the chaos to who the blurry attacker might be.
They are starting to look all the same-----those brown men...
Freeing his one leg, he lounged over and quickly gave his attacker a swift kick on the stomach---sending the soldier quickly staggering on his feet. This time Alfred didn't hesitate, and starts shooting several rounds in succession.
The figure still emerged, although bloodied, staggering with the bolo still in hand.
It was then Alfred realized who it was, "Juan!"
How can Juan stand this? Is he even human? He was weakened enough, but he was still charging towards him...with the bolo starting to carelessly slip from his grip.
"I am---not Juan" he breathed heavily, standing but a couple of feet in front of him. "Alfred Jones, you----I---"
The insurgents starts to run towards Juan's direction, while some of them starts to shield Emilio, trying to find a route to escape. Everything then starts to run in slow motion, a hazy blur of white, blues and hail of gun fires and shouts as men in both sides starts to fall around them. At that moment, what stand in the middle of that chaos is Alfred F. Jones, the personification of America and a badly injured Juan Carriedo, the young General's aide that will fight to the death for what he believed in.
Juan staggered, trying to reach towards him. It was when Alfred noticed that the shots have torn open Juan's uniform, he can see a tight blood stained bind---he saw...
"I am Las Islas Filipinas....Maria Salome delos Santos" she gasped, gathering every inch of strength she can muster "------America, I am Philippines. I am the Motherland."
He dropped his rifle, oh dear lord.
I will never leave my General's side---
The young soldier repressing the urge to laugh at him during the meeting of their superiors at Cavite.
That young man who fell and stumbled into his arms, with that ridiculous flower on the head after the Declaration of Independence...
It's all starting to make sense now.
"----Philippines..."
"I need to do this----to protect myself, to protect my people. You understand that don't you?"
With that, she collapsed to his arms.
"Jua---Salome!" He cried, holding her. He can see the insurgents closing in. But that does not matter now.
"Even if I fall, Alfred Jones---" she choked, clutching his unform. "---even if the First Philippine Republic falls----we will keep standing up until to the last man, I will not surrender...you can have my lands, but you can never have my spirit...my people's spirit--"
It was probably painful regret that she is seeing in those luminous blue eyes, those eyes that always look at her full of life---full of promises...but he never knew what was going on, or who she was----he was just following orders.
To think she was a fool to fall in love with him.
Before she passes out, it seems she heard him whisper--- I will make this up to you somehow,---Philippines
Then everything turned black.
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To be continued...with the actual fic (with some addtl flashback to be dropped about for closure). TOOK ME A WEEK HURRR. Will resume normal bi-weekly updates next week ._.
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My love for bibingka galapong is so damned obvious that I JUST HAD to give Antonio a pointless flash back :_; and Gabriel/Portugal is by someone's OC in nationslash sometime ago. Man, my memory is just...what. I dunno, somehow I remembered Maes Hughes '3'
Silly References through out the prologue:
Max Fried Chicken! Ha! *points to spring chicken in Al's foodgasm flashback*
VAF um yeah >_> *Al, it's not just the food*
I love you Virus!
Marimar...
i dunno what else..too many layered flashbacks much? SORRY....TOO MUCH HISTORY I HAVE TO MESH WITH FICTION T_T
WAS it commodore or admiral dewey? Some statements refer him as commodore early during the battle of manila bay...and later on as admiral...ahh who cares. Also even if Aguinaldo is already president...somewhere in the story, I want to refer him as the general...idk...
Notes (wow, I managed to actually research):
*Al's and Iggy's argument: Desperate Housewives and The Daily Show with John Stewart. This is like 2007-ish.
*Chapter Summary based on the Battle of Manila: Aguinaldo sent an emissary to General Elwell Otis to sue for peace, saying "the firing on our side the night before had been against my order." Otis replied: "Fighting having begun, must go on to the grim end." Aguinaldo then sent a telegram to all "local chiefs" informing them of the hostilities.
*Alfred's Flashback w/his initial meet with Salome in 1901 = On March 23, 1901 General Frederick Funston and his troops captured Aguinaldo in Palanan, Isabela, with the help of some Filipinos (called the Macabebe Scouts after their home locale) who had joined the Americans' side. The Americans pretended to be captives of the Macabebes, who were dressed in Philippine Army uniforms. Once Funston and his “captors” entered Aguinaldo's camp, they immediately fell upon the guards and quickly overwhelmed them and the weary Aguinaldo.
*The cessation must be of the whole archipelago or none - October 28 - McKinley cables new instructions to Paris delegation: "the cession must be of the whole archipelago or none" (Mckinley is bloody weird as he recounted he received the orders 'from God' in a dream.)
(Even after this, resistance continued up to the last Filipino General, Miguel Malvar---buttt there is the notorious balangiga massacre, guerilla wars and moro rebellion phase...BUT WHATEVER, I don't want to make it to heavy =_____=
and since Aguinaldo stands as the 'leader' of the country at that time, it makes sense Salome has to be with him until the fall of the first republic.)
Of course, I wouldn't totally go on accurate because it's APH, its history on anti-depressants! although i got depressed typing this...five days...FIVE DAYSSS
I totally would want someone to draw a scene between Soldier!Alfred and CavalryCrossdress!Salome, similar to Al's scene for his indepedence to Iggy...but I think I don't like the uniforms at that period. >_>
I use the word totally too much. I'm not quite satisfied how this turns out.
PS. I'm looking for beta, story helper idk, reach me at utentsu@gmail.com
P.P.S. thanks for reading =_= sorry for the eyereyp.