(POLAND POV)
After making sure Germany was going to be alright, I raced right back to the battlefield, just in case they needed my help but as I got closer, the air began to get unbearably heavy and my vision began to spark and blur. Every hair on my body perked up and I immediately knew what was coming.
"Lightning!" I gasped as I zipped out of the dangerously electric air. Mere moments later, terrifying flashes of incomprehensible power roared down, seemingly out of nowhere. My heart rattled in my ears as I steadied my breathing, struggling to stay in the air as my body shook.
Where did that come from?!
After waiting for my nerves to settle, I cautiously glided down to survey the scene, where things seemed to have settled down.
The sun peeked out through the rising clouds of smog and restless layers of dust. With one powerful flap, the grime dispersed to either side and I landed onto the ground.
The air was still again and silence finally returned after a night of strife. The enemy had disappeared but I couldn't tell if we had won or not. Everyone looked so grim and no one said a word.
"So what are we going to do about him?"
I shot into the air as a voice and person materialized right next to me. I hadn't even registered their presence, like they were a ghost or something. A glimmer in the breeze.
He pointed to El Salvador, who hadn't moved for a while, and said, "He's dying."
America gazed down at the worn down metallic prison as the light within the country's eyes began to dim. Five glanced up at the Headmaster and with a nod of approval, he slid down the side of the crater and knelt down next to El Salvador. America stepped back to give them some space.
"Well?" UN asked, "Do you think you could do a soul transfer?"
Five stared down in silence before concluding, "It's possible, now that the original binds have been so worn down. However, it will still be only temporary. There is no way a soul without a physical body can last very long."
"So what should we do?" WHO muttered to herself, "Should we resur-"
"I think that decision belongs to him," UN interrupted, shooting his younger sister a warning glare, clearly shutting down whatever she was suggesting. Everyone's attention turned to El Salvador once more.
He slowly tilted his head as the creaking sounds of snapping metal frames clawed our ears. His gaze finally settled on the sky above.
"D- do... you know... what is it-t like in my... country right n-now? How are... my people?"
Five grimaced, "I'm afraid it's not doing very well. After you seemingly 'died', everything fell into anarchy. Natural disasters, disease, poverty, crime, everything went wrong."
"And it won't be restored until a countryhuman takes control of that territory," UN sighed as he pinched the bridge of his nose, "After your... 'death', no new countryhuman appeared in your place so I sent FVEY to investigate. Turns out, it was because you were still somewhat present in this world, unable to continue on."
"So... I'm the reason... that my country is suffering..."
"No, I wouldn't say that now," Five laughed nervously, "It's just you were gone for too long. Now we are gonna..."
He trailed off as he looked around, "What were we gonna do again?"
El Salvador continued to stare at the sky, already reconciled with the fact that his time was over. It was obvious that even if he kept living for just a while longer, it wouldn't be helpful to anyone. It was time to pass the torch forward.
"Please, let me go," he whispered softly, "Let me pass on in peace, for my country and my people. Please allow them to find happiness again."
UN lowered his head and nodded as everyone gathered around him to send his soul off. Five reached into the metal husk and tapped. A glistening light responded and tiny threads of seemingly pure light began to emerge at his beckon. He took hold of the threads and began to pull, unraveling them as he went. The sky began to fill with shining lights so mellow and pure, I couldn't help but gaze up at them in awe.
The threads of his soul waved in the wind as Five finally found the weakened anchor point where they had been sealed. Nurse WHO reached out her scythe and hooked it around the threads that Five held out. With one swift swipe, the threads were severed.
The light had completely died from within but now it danced through the air as Five finally let go. His soul began to twist and weave, forming the shape of the branch of a tree with a single flower, holding his people's bygone wishes within it.
The last traces of El Salvador finally vanished, leaving an empty shell in the blackened dirt. Though he was gone now, I couldn't help but smile and be happy for him. He was free. He would be remembered.
I glanced over at Ame who still had yet to take his eyes off the sky. He was silent and upon closer inspection, he was trembling.
"Dude, are you crying?"
"N-no! I'm not!" he sniffed as he quickly wiped his eyes on his sleeve. I'm just... sleepy and I was... yawning..."
I rolled my eyes but decided to drop the case.
A while later, UN's work force showed up to scour the area for any traces the enemy left and clean up. NATO and NASA supervised the extraction of the metal zombies for further examination while Five gathered us together.
"Everyone is alright, right?" he confirmed with us, "No one's too badly traumatized? Right?"
"We'll... be fine," Russia murmured as he was helped to his feet at last. The effects of his Consequence diminished enough now, though he was still woozy.
Nurse WHO came back to also give her last checks and yell at Five a whole lot. When she was done, she sighed and gave us the news, "We'll be holding a memorial and proper send off for both Greece and El Salvador at a later date. It will most likely take place at the Opening Ceremonies of the Tournament. But until then, don't worry about them. They've made their choice."
Her words were solemn but they also felt very matter-of-factly, as if she had gotten used to the notion of death. It was then that I remembered the weapon she had been holding.
"What's her story?" I whispered to Canada and he frowned, "From what I know, healing is only a byproduct of her Awakening. I think her job was to monitor death and disease and renew those who were sick. I believe there was a time where she sort of went berserk and killed a bunch of people instead of healing them after confusing renewal with rebirth. At least that's what I've heard from Ame. Both UN and WHO have really obscure upbringings."
An involuntary shiver raced up my spine and I shook the thought out of my head. She had been so nice and so caring to them. There was no reason to start doubting her now. Instead, our attention was given to the new arrival who looked more than a little ticked off.
"Oh for crying out loud, what in the world happened here this time," EU scowled as he appeared in a swirl of misty lights. His complexion was as flawless as ever but the ruffled and unbuttoned cloak suggested otherwise.
"Glad you could finally make it," UN commented nonchalantly and EU sighed, "My apologies. I had some last minute preparations for the ceremony to hold me back."
UN waved it off, dismissing the thought. He already knew how much EU was occupied with ever since he was put solely in charge of the Tournament's preparations.
"You need not worry, my friend. All has been taken care of at the moment," UN reassured him. EU nodded but his softened expression quickly hardened back into a stern gaze.
"That's wonderful to hear," he smiled forcefully, "Then would it be alright if I borrowed them for a while?" UN had no objection and walked away.
As soon as the Headmaster had turned away EU glanced at his pocket watch, "We still have a little while 'til the school day starts. Agent 10. If you would, could you call the Acting Headmaster African Union over for me? We have... things to discuss."
At the mention of AU, Five perked up a little bit and I could have sworn he blushed a little. America had already filled me in about their Valentines date and a small smirk curled onto all of our lips. He shot us all a probably-ice-cold glare (I couldn't really tell his eyes were masked) before running off.
EU turned to stare at us again which I would have shrunk under usually. But this time, he seemed more exhausted than angry as he said, "Do you have any clue what this is about?"
We all stared at him with blank faces as he looked for an answer.
"Sorry dude, but we aren't Germany. We can't read your mind like he does." Ame remarked, which earned him another scowl.
"The deadline? Ring any bells?"
America and Russia glanced at each other for a moment before their eyes lit up, "Oh yeah thaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat!" they murmured in unison, "Yeah, what about it?"
"What's up about it?" the Power echoed with irritation, "I just received the list from the Eastern Branch this morning which means, the only branch that has yet to submit their official lineup for the Tournament is the Central Branch!"
"Oh whoops... that kinda slipped our minds," Canada admitted as he dug the toe of his shoe into the dirt, "Sorry, sir."
"The submission was already due and technically, I'm not supposed to accept any more entries to the Tournament." EU growled as he began pacing around, "Seeing that the Central Branch lineup is not complete, you are automatically disqualified—"
"WHAT?!" everyone yelled at the same time.
"LET ME FINISH!!!" he yelled back before stopping to take a deep breath, "That's what I'm supposed to say. But seeing how much pride UN is placing on you all, I'm going to make exception JUST THIS ONCE!"
"Seriously? Thank you sir!"
"But I am going to stay here and make sure you have your final team lineup by the end of the day," he declared and everyone's faces fell.
Luckily, it was at this moment that AU arrived with Germany and Five.
"Oh, Professor EU? It's a surprise to see you here!" Germany remarked politely.
"You're up already?" I asked, still slightly concerned but he smiled gently, "Don't worry. I just needed a short nap. I'm feeling great now."
EU nodded good morning to AU and went straight to the point, informing her about the lineup. "Where exactly are we, in terms of the team?"
"I'm so sorry for giving you so much trouble," AU apologized with a forced smile plastered across her face. It was old news that she didn't like being in the presence of the Three Powers. Though she despised UN the most because of his ability to push her buttons, EU came in a close second with all his formalities and such. Everything felt stiff when talking to him.
"We only need to determine who Germany's partner is," AU admitted, "And that's what we've been debating."
EU raised an eyebrow, "I'm going to assume that means there are multiple candidates for that position? Is that it?"
"Yes, sir."
"And I'm also going to assume I'm staring at them right now?" he narrowed his eyes as he gestured at me, Japan and Finland.
America swiveled around to glance at Finland, who immediately dematerialization away before reappearing a few feet further.
"Oh no. I'm not that interested. Count me out," he stated coldly, "Are we even allowed to use these weapons against other countryhumans?"
EU shook his head, "No, not the Cosmic Weapon series. They are far too powerful to wield against others in the Tournament."
Japan glanced down and clutched the sheathed tsurugi tighter against her chest. EU turned to the two of us.
"Okay, so it's you two," he groaned, exasperated, "Then it's simple. One of you will be the substitute while the other will be Germany's partner! There!"
He spread his hands out in a sarcastic 'tada' motion before whirling around with his cloak billowing behind him.
"But... who is who?" I asked meekly as Japan and I stared at one another, not sure how to establish our roles.
We were both trying to be courteous but part of me desperately wanted to be the official contestant, especially after thinking it over and training with them for the better past of last week.
I felt like I had finally earned myself a shot at the Tournament instead of being roped in by Germany.
"If it's alright with everyone," I finally spoke up, breaking the unmoving silence, "I would like to participate as Germany's partner."
Russia made no objection and I don't know if I was going crazy or not, but I swore I saw a tiny smile play upon his lips. Canada shrugged and gave me the thumbs up, saying that he didn't mind and America was grinning from ear to ear.
Germany beamed, his eyes shone with pride for me.
I beamed back, glad that everyone approved and I looked over at EU, who nodded in approval. He lifted his hand and a grid with six tiles appeared before him with holographic figurines positioned in the corresponding positions.
"I'm sorry, Poland but I'm afraid I feel the same way as you do."
My limbs went stiff as I glanced over at Japan. She wasn't making eye contact with me and she was fidgeting with her hands. Apparently, this wasn't going to be as easy as I had thought.
"There are a lot of past griefs that are riding on this opportunity. So I need to... prove that I can stand up against everyone-"
When she finally lifted her gaze to meet mine, a jolt of fear rushed through my veins. Her pupils had dilated into slits and her eyes glowed with a fierce red hue.
"-including you."
The tension shot through the roof
I took an unconscious step back into a more alert stance but I refused to let her will waver mine. Though she had awakened not long ago, it was clear that her Awakening was far stronger than usual Awakenings.
I glanced around at the others but they didn't say anything either. No one seemed to be able to choose either.
"Then I'll make it simple," EU shrugged, dismissing the holograms with a wave of his hands, "I propose a duel and whoever wins will be the official contestant. Fair?"
America nodded his head in agreement but Russia frowned, "Then wouldn't that only test their individual strength? If that was the case, I would suggest Japan." I clenched my fist in annoyance. Not because it was Russia, (ok maybe a little) it was because it was simply the truth.
"Hey now!" Canada argued but Russia wasn't done, "However, Poland has worked with us for a while now, and his ability to fit into our team is also undeniable."
"Wow, you're sounding smart for once!" Ame teased which won him a death glare.
EU though about what the Russian had said for a moment before deciding, "Alright then, how about this; pick a partner who still has enough energy to fight and then you will duel."
"That's gonna be kinda rough then... won't it?" Canada murmured but EU shook his head,
"That's why you'll both be sparring against me. That way, I can actively use my Awakening to monitor the damage inflicted on you."
Germany was in disbelief as he tried to process what EU was suggesting, "H-hold on sir! You want us to fight you? But—"
"Oh? Are you doubting my strength?" he crooned softly as his eyes began to glow like a sunset. All the air seemed to have rushed out of our lungs, replaced with an odd sense of dread. Germany gulped, "Oh no. Not at all, I was inquiring about our safety."
"Oh that!" EU laughed and we realized we could breathe again, "Don't worry, I'll only be on the defensive. I won't go on the offensive."
He promised to explain more thoroughly once we got to the Coloso but Ame was already jittering with anticipation.
"I'm going to make him eat those words," he grinned evilly, "He's gonna have to attack if he wants to win against me!"
"That's if Japan or Poland even picks you," Canada reminded him.
"HEY WHAT'S THAT SUPPOSED TO MEAN?!"
We stepped into the grove that held the Coloso and Professor EU finally turned back towards us with a calm smile. He gestured for me and Japan to step forward.
"Alright, this is quite simple, really," he sighed as he adjusted his pin over his heart, "Two pairs will come at me. Whichever one is able to snatch this pin from me will be the official participant."
"Uh... but we will have to take it right from under your nose basically!" Japan exclaimed, "Is that even doable?"
"I don't know," he replied with a straight face, "You two better start coming up with a strategy then." Professor EU walked into the Coloso, his midnight violet robes swishing behind him.
"Classes begin in approximately an hour. You have ten minutes to pick a partner and prepare, then we'll start. Oh and one more thing..." he called before glancing behind him one last time. Goosebumps prickled all of our skins as EU smiled with hooded eyes.
"If you are unable to complete this challenge by the time the first chime rings, you will all be disqualified from the Tournament."
We stood, dumbfounded, in that grove as we watched him disappear behind the clean, white marble walls. Professor EU had just raised the stakes to unimaginable heights and my hands began to shake. Was he serious? Maybe it was just a bluff but if it wasn't...
"Oh man, we're so screwed," I muttered to myself as I wrung my hands.
"Yeah, with that attitude, maybe."
Germany placed a hand on my shoulder and smiled, "You just have to do your best. That's all anyone can ask for."
Japan also looked a bit tense but as soon as realization hit us, we felt a bit more relaxed. Yes, I would be fighting her for the position but against EU, we were on the same side. We all were.
"Well, take your pick," America urged, "And then we can talk tactics."
EU paced around the center of the grand stage, glancing at his pocket watch and counting the seconds.
"There you are. Are you ready to begin?" he called out as we strolled into the open arena. The countries who were not participating made their way into the upper seats while the four of us stepped forward towards the professor.
"Yes, sir!" I declared and he nodded in approval. We took our positions on all four sides, surrounding him and waited for him to give the signal.
"Oh this will be a good show for sure," NATO remarked as he and AU climbed up the steps to join the other three spectators.
"Yeah well, it would have been a better show if I were down there," America pouted as he leaned back with his arms folded. Russia sighed as Ame leaned back on him but didn't do much else about it.
"Didn't you have enough fun for a day already?" Japan (Chrysanthemum) asked as he repositioned himself to give those two a bit more space.
"But now I don't have an excuse to punch a Power!"
"Watch yourself, United States of America," EU yelled from below which startled him, "I heard that!"
I could feel my breathing become shaky and unsteady as nervousness crept into my body. I wasn't sure if it was because of how much was riding on this battle or if it was EU's incredible presence.
This was the first time I had really registered how powerful the EU was. It was only now that the fact that he was a Power really clicked.
He raised his arms and the duel began.
Immediately, the sky was blanketed with a dark indigo fog. Germany had initiated phase 1.
"Japan! Now!" he cried as he dashed towards Canada, who was preparing for phase 2. She nodded and dashed into the darkness. The fog moved out of her way and swords began to rise from the ground, woven from illusions. Japan pulled off the ribbon tying her hair and used it to rope in as many swords as she could before unsheathing her own.
She had grabbed a spare katana and given the tsurugi to her brother for now because she knew that it would be too powerful. EU turned just in time to see a sword slicing through the smoke, aimed right at his chest. He easily side stepped it but before he could regain his balance, the sky opened up to reveal dozens of blades raining down.
Japan had tossed them into the air before attacking him.
"Not bad, not bad," EU admitted but in the blink of an eye, he had snatched a katana from midair and used it to block all the other falling blades. Then he turned to parry Japan's sword, locking her in a duel of pure strength. She grit her teeth as her blade began to shudder from strain.
"Aren't we full of surprises today. I didn't realize you continued training in the art of the sword on your own time," EU smirked as he readjusted his hold on his sword. With a quick flick, he was able to divert all the pressure to knock her off balance and to the side. She stumbled back a little and nothing else seemed to happen but EU lowered his sword and just stood there.
Suddenly, the gold rings around his thumbs expanded to hover in the air. Out of nowhere, a massive explosion of air propelled Japan away as if she was hit by an invisible truck. She was tossed to the side like a rag doll.
Ripping winds crashed over all of us and I had to anchor into the stone floor with my spear to avoid getting blown away.
"What the- WHAT WAS THAT?!" I cried as I shielded my eyes from the kicked up dirt and dust. I stretched my wings as wide as I could and with one mighty heave, I sent the wind rushing back against the current to cancel one another.
Germany coughed to clear his throat, "Japan—"
"On it!" I took off into the air and swooped around to hoist Japan back into the fight. She seemed to be physically fine but the hand that held the katana was chafed and bleeding. The katana itself was not only broken in half, but the hilt had also splintered and cracked.
"Oh god, all that from just a tap?" I murmured in disbelief. I landed just in time to see Germany's next move. EU's face flashed with a brief look of surprise as a chain suddenly yanked him to the ground and many others began to bind him there.
Germany's outstretched hand curled into a fist as the fallen swords reverted back to their original form, including the one in his hand, that helped pin him down.
"Quickly, Poland! Buy us a few more seconds, we're almost ready!" Germany urged as he tossed a roll of fabric as a makeshift gauze and a new katana to Japan, "Do the best you can."
With a deep breath to gather my courage, I dove into the fray with my spear testing the air in front, just in case there really was an invisible forcefield or whatever but I found nothing. I swooped out of his field of vision and thrust my spear forward at his exposed back but before I could reach him, he managed to free one of his arms and stopped my attack with the tip of his finger.
The spear hummed with built up energy before shattering to pieces, dispersing into the air. My limbs went numb, like I was just electrocuted but I didn't hesitate and pulled out another feather that morphed into another spear. I just needed to occupy him for a moment longer.
The sky rumbled and the clouds swirled overhead in a sickly shade of magenta as the air became stiflingly cold. Goosebumps crawled up my arms as the unearthly shriek of the giant, twisting mass of ink black darkness sounded. It plunged into the sky, unfurling its massive wings.
Bundesadler bore down on Professor EU, who stared right back, my presence forgotten. Canada hoisted Germany to his feet as they stared at their handiwork. Germany was exhausted but was not completely spent, thanks to Canada. Phase 2 was a success.
"We... we finally did it!" they laughed with relief. Bundesadler was a bit different from before. It was smaller and less turbulent but it still had the commanding glow in its eyes.
At Germany's beckon, the feathery cloak of darkness surged over EU, swallowing him whole. Flashes of indigo and gold occasionally rippled through the black curtain but the torn off pieces only morphed into smaller clones of the black eagle before diving back to attack.
"That's as far as I'll go," Germany sighed, "This is the best distraction I can provide. The rest will be up to you two."
He pointed to both me and Japan before commanding Bundesadler to open a small gap for us. I glanced at Japan who nodded and immediately dashed into the fray. I quickly followed suit, knowing that there was no time to spare.
As soon as I flew in, the light from outside was sucked out. Even my glow was dimmed like I was shining a lantern into the vacuum of space.
All my senses were muted and muffled but before I could get lost in my own head, a hand grabbed onto my leg. I glanced down to see Japan motioning for me to come so I obliged.
Bundesadler assisted by cloaking us under its wing as we snuck into an open, calmer space where EU was standing. I watched as he swept his hand towards the coiling tendrils creeping closer before an invisible blast shot them back.
"I have an idea," Japan whispered to me, "I think I have an idea of how his Awakening works and I think we can use it to get his pin."
We slowly circled the Professor, still staying well under Bundesadler's protection, as she began explaining her observations.
"First off, the rings on his thumbs are probably an indicator of sorts. I noticed that after he flicked my sword away, the rings expanded right before I was knocked back."
I watched as he swatted away wall after wall. Like she said, every time he did, the rings expanded before the crushing blows were dealt.
"So... the rings are physical amplifiers?" I asked but Japan frowned.
"No, I think there's more to that. Especially with the time lag difference, something isn't adding up. If I were to guess, the rings are there, more as a measurement tool for him to monitor how much power he's using. There's a connection between how long it takes for the big blast to happen and just how powerful the force delivered is."
"Okay?" I muttered, "Now repeat that but pretend I'm not actually smart enough to follow along."
"He's... taking a small force like a flick, building it over time and unleashing it as a massive force. Sort of like... aging it. And from how small the rings are, I think that's the most basic form and use of his Awakening."
"That... makes sense I guess," I shuddered, "I remember rumors that he was capable of altering the course of history with little effort."
Japan nodded, "Being able to manipulate primary forces through time at will... that's a Power for you."
"Are you two done scheming now?" EU asked as he glared into the darkness where we were hidden. Japan grit her teeth and unsheathed her sword.
"Coordinate your attacks with me from above. I will find an opening."
Just like that, she darted out from the shadows and left me with those vague instructions. God damnit.
With a flap of my wings, I took to the air and attempted to get in closer but EU made that impossible. I was, however, able to get a clearer view of how exactly his Awakening worked. The rings vibrated with power before expanding and I knew what was coming.
I tucked my wings in, falling into a nosedive before pulling back into a barrel roll, just in time to dodge the jet of air that shot out. I caught a glimpse of EU's face which wore a hint of astonishment but I then collided into one of Bundesadler's incoming attacks.
"S-sorry!" I hissed as I flailed around to regain my balance.
Had he planned that? I wouldn't have put it past him since he was already well versed in pulling strings.
Japan had moved in close, the blade flashing dangerously close to the Power. He retaliated fairly well but it was clear that he was having a little bit of trouble keeping the both of us in check. But as I recovered from colliding with Bundesadler, I had given him a moment to breathe. With a quick sidestep, EU dodged the blade and tapped it ever so lightly, forcing it to shatter into a million glittering pieces. Japan stumbled forward but didn't miss a beat, tossing the jagged, hilt directly at EU's face.
"POLAND! PASS!" she yelled.
I hurled my glowing spear down and she snatched it from midair, before sending it straight towards the Power.
EU, startled from the tossed hilt, was caught off balance. Panic flashed over his features before he raised his hands. The rings expanded into the size of dinner plates, as he struggled to reign in his energy unleashed in fear.
At the final moment, Japan hooked the trajectory so that the spearhead wasn't pointed directly at his chest. Instead, she took a lesson from his book and used the incoming force and directed it in a different direction.
Bundesadler surged forward to sweep Japan out of the path of the energy as the air began to rumble. The spearhead snagged the edge of his cloak that adorned the pin.
With a booming thundercrack, the spear itself was sent rocketing into the wall where it split open the stone wall like a stray bullet but the pin had been ripped off, flying sky high.
Without hesitation, I shot through the remaining darkness with my hand outstretched. The pin glimmered just ahead.
Bundesadler had wrapped itself around the others to protect them from the impact and was slowly fading. Germany was the first to raise his head and smiled as he watched.
"Fly to the top of the world," he mused to himself as he laughed softly to himself.
With one final push, I felt my fingers wrap around the cold, delicate pin.
"YES!" I screamed in delight as I clutched it to my chest. As soon as I slowed down and let my adrenaline drain from my body, I finally realized how fast my heart was racing. The intense pounding in my head echoed in my ears as the pin rested against my pulse, rising and falling with every breath.
It was peaceful.
The cloud beneath me drifted by, opening up the land below as I let myself free-fall for a bit, just to feel the rushing winds carry me back to the ground. Finally, I spread my wings to catch myself from the fall, landing soundlessly on the ground with the pin clutched high above my head, just as the morning chimes sung their crystalline tune.
(NOBODY POV)
Hollers of joy and delight erupted from the upper platform, more specifically- from America, and he leapt off the side to tackle the petite country in a bear hug.
"YEAH YOU GOT IT!!! YOU GUYS SHOWED HIM WHO'S BOSS!!!" he whooped
"Aren't you enthusiastic about that," EU grumbled as he strolled over, readjusting his torn cloak as he went, "Well done, you four. You did impress me quite a bit."
Poland reached out his hand to give the pin back but the Power shook his head.
"Keep it, if you want."
Poland stared at him, wide-eyed for a sec before his breaking into a huge grin.
"Thank you sir!"
EU patted him on the shoulder and turned back to address everyone, "Well then, I see what you mean," EU sighed, "Both Japan and Poland have great talent on the battlefield. But as per the agreement, Poland was the one who snatched the pin in the end."
Japan's eyes grew wide as she remembered what he meant and tinges of pink coloured her cheeks. She had forgotten all about that in the heat of battle. Honestly, everyone had.
Poland stared at the pin, then at the Power who still had his gaze fixed on him. And then he realized– EU was still observing him. The little country turned around to look at Japan, who was being tended to by her brother, wincing every time he dabbed her hand with a cloth. A lump formed in his throat as he couldn't believe what he was about to do.
"I think the official position should belong to Japan," he muttered as he stepped up to Japan, who was staring at him with wide eyes, "I think your performance was far better. You didn't even use your Awakening or the tsurugi but still held your own nonetheless. All I did was poke in here and there as a distraction."
"That's not true!" Japan argued but Poland glared at her, daring her to continue.
"I also realized long ago that once we got to the individual battles, which we absolutely will, I would stand no chance against any of you. Japan also seems to have more riding on this Tournament than I do."
"Poland..."
No one had any words to offer, no one knew what was the right thing to say. EU folded his arms and tilted his head in thought.
"Well, African Union?"
AU closed her eyes, wiping the liquid gold from her eyes.
"It's his choice. Though from what I can see, I deduced that it would be wisest to give Japan a little more time to develop. But other than that, nothing else seems too prominent at the moment."
EU closed his eyes for a moment to gather his thoughts before he made his declaration, "Very well then. Congratulations, Japan. If no one has any objections, you shall be the fifth and final participant in the upcoming Tournament. As for Poland, you will be able to join them as the substitute in the event of an unforeseen complication."
A round of applause rose into the air as Japan began to thank the Polish boy profusely. But EU raised his hand, signaling that there was more to be said.
"However, after considering the odd circumstances, Chrysanthemum Japan and African Union's suggestions, I have decided that Poland will take Japan's place in the preliminary rounds until she is able to fully control her Awakening. I will consider it as a leave due to safety precautions. If she is unable to do so before the individual battles commence, she will be disqualified and Poland will receive the position. Any objections?"
There were none. With one last confirmation from each of the members, the roster was submitted and their fates were sealed.
"I... I don't know how I could ever thank you," Japan sniffled as she struggled to hold back tears, "I could tell this Tournament also means a lot to you, despite what you said."
"If you want to thank me, just train hard and kick ass," he replied with a grin, "But next time, I'm gonna be the one standing in that arena, full time. Got it?"
She blinked a few moments before a huge smile broke through, "Good. I'll hold you to it."
UN stepped into the clearing a moment later, followed by a dozen or so agents. A new figure, that they rarely had the pleasure to see, also appeared from the Headmaster's shadow. ASEAN's gaze was unfeeling as it swept past the countries and landed on his colleague.
"Are you done tying up your loose ends, EU?" he inquired but EU simply ignored him with an irritated sigh. "I have no more business here. I apologize for the delay."
UN murmured a few words to his subordinates before they bowed and left.
"Then we shall depart at once," he declared as he spread his arms wide, "NATO, I left special instructions for you and Agent 10, you will receive a new mission soon."
It is unchallenged, that the fate of the living world resides in three beings known as the Powers. For as long as humans could remember, countless forces had warred relentlessly for control and power but that all changed when they appeared. Offering a new world of ignorance and bliss, they quickly had humanity in the palm of their hands.
Students, who were on their way to class, couldn't help but stop and stare as the Powers strolled through the courtyards, escorted by a dozen white cloaked personnel. Their presence, impossible to ignore, captivating all that beheld them as they walked down the main corridor as celestial gods amongst them.
As long as they resided in this world, this fragile illusion of peace would last.
Slowly, the Front Gates of the Academy shut behind them, starting the final countdown until the Tournament's arrival. There were only 2 days left.
NATO couldn't help but feel uneasy as he watched their silhouettes disappear into the distance. The feeling was the same as if he were stripped of his weapons and left in the middle of a battlefield. This was always the time of year that he dreaded the most.
Without fail, every cycle, they would disappear without a trace on the day before the Tournament's arrival to raise abyssal islands from the corners of the conscious sea, creating a haven in the sky by bending the fabrics of reality itself.
Their absence, however, would plunge their idealistic world into the dark where unseen, suppressed turmoil bubbled to the surface. It was when all the cracks and flaws of paradise would finally show, no longer being masked by the blinding light.
And with no way to contact their beloved saviours, this day would become known as Forsakening Day, the final, most treacherous stretch 'til the dawn of the new free world for all of humankind.
Author's Notes:
These chapters take so goddamn long to write. But after the countdown is done, I can resume to normal lengths.
Phew, and there we go guys! Thank you for voting and after reading through most, if not all, of your explanations, I decided to do this. I hope it was able to satisfy y'all.