With his brother still in danger and magic on the fritz, Russia must keep himself together enough just to survive. With people behind him and monsters to chase, will he be able to bring his brother back safe?
Once America tugs him around a corner, Russia looks over at him, confused.
"Beam? What's wrong?" Russia asks.
"(I just wanted a second to talk to you.)"
Russia starts signing back when America interjects.
"(I can't see you, but this is private, so I don't want to shout. You can whisper.)"
Russia nods.
"(Is that okay?)"
"Yes," Russia mumbles, rubbing the back of his neck.
"(Are you okay?)" America asks.
"Yes," Russia responds automatically.
"(Are you sure?)" America replies, "(Your ____ is moving around. And so are your ears.)"
"What?"
"(T-A-I-L,)" America spells, "(Tail.)"
Russia hums.
"(Are you sure you're okay?)"
"I'm still alive."
"(That's not what I'm asking.)"
"What do you want me to say? I'm not dead, and the states are safe. Mostly."
America seems to sigh before signing again.
"(I'm asking about you, not the states.)"
"I'm well enough."
"(You were freaking out before. I just wanted to make sure you're actually okay before we keep going.)"
"I'm okay," Russia soothes.
America nods and then takes Russia's hand. Russia's stomach feels warm and full of butterflies. America then tugs Russia down and kisses his forehead. The flashlight turns off and America cradles Russia's head.
Russia smiles brightly. Then, warm hands start massaging his ears. Russia melts into them.
"Awwww," America coos, "do you like this?"
Russia purrs in response. His tail calmly sways behind him, and he presses his face into America's shoulder. America pets his hair and smoothes out the fur on his ears, filling Russia with bubbly, warm feelings.
"There we go," America says with a laugh, "now you're okay."
Russia whines a little when America pulls away and turns his flashlight back on.
"Come on, we need to keep moving," America says, "but don't worry, as soon as we get home, we'll relax as much we can, okay?"
Russia hums with a love-struck smile. America scratches under Russia's chin and starts walking away. Russia walks with him, leaned over to enjoy America's contact.
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