~ Powers of Nations: A Countryhumans Chronicle

▶Chapter:46◀

The chapter:

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◦•●◉✿ 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑑𝑎𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑓𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑤𝑒𝑙𝑙 ✿◉●•◦

3rd person pov:

The morning light was muted, casting a somber glow over the gathering. The grand hall had been transformed into a place of reverence, with arrangements of flowers and a solitary casket draped in a flag. The fifteen children of Soviet, along with a few other notable figures, assembled to honor his memory.

As the siblings arrived, the contrast was striking. No longer the children they once were, they had grown into adults, some in their late teens, others in their early twenties (𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀, 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸, 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀, 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀, 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗻𝘀, 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀, 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀, and they don't get older than 30years). Belarus, the Baltics, and Kazakhstan had all notably increased in height. Kazakhstan, in particular, was now the tallest, his yellow wings prominent and striking against his tall frame. Russia, too, had grown, but he noticed the difference as he stood among them. He felt smaller, particularly next to his siblings.

Russia’s emotions were raw as he addressed the gathering. Despite the complex history with their father, his heartfelt words about Soviet’s life—acknowledging both the pain and the moments of tenderness—resonated deeply. The siblings, while still carrying their past grievances, were moved by Russia’s grief. Their hardened exteriors softened in response to his pain.

North Korea and Vietnam, having come despite their reservations, offered quiet support. North Korea’s stern demeanor softened as he spoke briefly with Russia, while Vietnam’s gentle presence provided a momentary respite from the heavy atmosphere. Both gestures were appreciated, though they did little to alleviate Russia’s profound sadness.

As the funeral concluded, Russia prepared to leave for his new house, a symbol of his newfound independence. Kazakhstan, always supportive, decided to accompany him to his new home. Their journey was filled with quiet reflection and the shared burden of Soviet’s passing.

Just as they were about to depart, China approached them. His expression a mix of regret and sympathy. " Russia" he said softly, “I’m sorry for your loss. I know the past was difficult, but... I hope you find peace and strength in this new chapter.”

Russia looked up at China, his eyes reflecting deep sorrow and exhaustion. “Thank you,” he replied quietly. “I appreciate your words.”

Kazakhstan, walked beside Russia. As they left the funeral, Kazakhstan noticed that Russia was hiding his wings beneath his clothing. The once-proud wings, now concealed, drew puzzled glances from some of the siblings.

After they were alone, Kazakhstan turned to Russia with concern. “Why are you hiding your wings?” he asked softly.

Russia looked away, discomfort evident. “It makes me uncomfortable to show them right now,” he replied. “I just... I’d rather keep them hidden.”

Kazakhstan nodded, respecting Russia’s wish. “I understand. But you know we’re all family here. You don’t have to hide anything from us.”

Russia offered a faint smile, appreciative of Kazakhstan’s understanding. “Thank you, Kazakh. Maybe someday.”

As Russia and Kazakhstan continued their journey to the new house, the world outside seemed to hold its breath. The weight of Soviet’s death was a burden, but the support of his siblings and friends provided a glimmer of hope amidst the grief.

Kazakhstan’s car rolled smoothly along the road, the landscape shifting as they neared Russia’s new home. The vehicle’s interior was filled with the comforting hum of the engine and Kazakhstan’s steady, reassuring presence beside Russia.

Russia glanced at Kazakhstan, who was focused on the road with determination. “Kazakh, you really don’t have to stay with me,” Russia said, trying to sound casual. “I can manage on my own.”

Kazakhstan shook his head firmly. “No, Russia. It’s important to me to be here. We’ve been through too much together for me to just leave you now. I want to help.”

Russia sighed but offered a small smile. He could see that Kazakhstan was unwavering in his resolve. “Alright, if you insist. I appreciate it.”

As they arrived at the house, Kazakhstan’s presence was a steady anchor. The home was spacious but lacked the grandeur of Soviet’s residence. It was a new beginning, and Russia took solace in the fact that Kazakhstan was by his side.

Kazakhstan helped Russia unpack and settle in. Despite the house's size, it felt emptier without Soviet. They worked together to make the space feel more like home, placing furniture and arranging belongings. Kazakhstan’s constant presence and support made the task easier.

That evening, Russia prepared dinner while Kazakhstan set the table. The aroma of cooking filled the kitchen, providing a sense of normalcy. As they sat down to eat, Kazakhstan attempted to break the silence with conversation.

“So, how was it when you were alone with Father after everyone left?” Kazakhstan asked, his tone gentle.

Russia looked up from his plate, considering the question. “It was... good, actually. Once everyone was gone, Soviet’s behavior changed. It wasn’t as bad as it used to be. He became more... softer, more bearable.”

Kazakhstan’s eyebrows lifted in surprise. “Really? That’s a relief to hear. I was worried he might have continued his harsh ways.”

Russia chuckled softly. “Yeah, it was definitely different. And speaking of changes, you’ve really grown! I remember when I was taller than you. Now look at you—tall enough to reach the top shelf without a step stool!”

Kazakhstan laughed heartily, his deep voice filling the room. “I guess I’ve been hitting the growth spurts, huh? You’ve gotten a little bit taller too, though. We’ve both changed a lot.”

Their laughter eased the tension that had settled over them. As the evening wore on, they finished their meal and began to wind down for the night.

When bedtime came, Kazakhstan made sure to stay close to Russia. They settled into their respective rooms, but Kazakhstan’s presence was a comforting shadow at Russia’s side. They had shared so much growing up, and Kazakhstan’s commitment to staying close was a source of great comfort for Russia.

In the quiet of the night, as they prepared to sleep, Kazakhstan made sure Russia knew he was not alone. They talked quietly about the old days, their shared memories bringing a sense of familiarity and warmth to the new house. Kazakhstan’s steady presence was a reminder that, despite the changes and the loss, some bonds remained unbreakable.

As they drifted off to sleep, Kazakhstan’s loyalty and companionship served as a beacon of hope in the midst of their new beginnings.

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End of chapter...