Hetalia: The Fifty Stars

Chapter 24: Compromise

Missouri. The 24th state has a name that sounds like the synonym of suffering, and she'll tell you otherwise she isn't miserable. In fact, she's the total opposite. Among the states, she's a friendly, outgoing spelunker who likes to speak her thoughts on the subject being mentioned. However, she isn't always like this.

Back when Missouri was a territory, she was a timid girl who was struggling to be accepted by the others. At the time, the Northern states had a problem with Missouri being accepted into the Union. The Southern states, who were supportive on Missouri's admission, argued with the Northern states to give Missouri a chance. Both sides constantly fought over Missouri's role as a result.

Resentful of the fighting, Missouri was doubtful on becoming a state. Yet, she wished to be a state like the others. When 1820 came around, Missouri made the journey to convince the Northern states to let her into the Union. This was her side to the story.

☆☆☆☆☆

January 1, 1820.

The moment the grandfather clock rang twelve, chiming a deep gong to a new year, I had finished pressing the wax seal on my last letter. With my bags packed for later in the morning, I was ready to make the winter trip to the northeast.

Most of my people are becoming disgruntled lately. Earlier returns from the capital without a solution have placed me in midst of their dissatisfied grumbles and harsh criticism. At times, they blamed me for not doing enough to convince the Union. I couldn't say I blame them. Nor could I hate them. It's my responsibility to make sure their needs are satisfied. For that, I need to become a state as soon as possible.

Despite my representatives' doubts on the task, I was allowed to venture beyond my home on a mission of persuasion. My goal is to convince and compromise with the northern states in the hopes of them voting for my admission into the Union. By doing so, I hope to not only satisfy my people's requests on becoming state, but also allow them to retain their rights to their property.

Once the morning messenger comes to deliver my letters to the unwilling states, I'll be making my journey in the hopes of meeting and convincing the northern states to vote for my admission. It will be tough, but hopefully they're open to a conclusion on this stubborn matter.

~

January 3, 1820.

The first state I went to was Illinois. Elliot was my neighbor to the east, so it would make sense to see him first. Despite being neighbors for a while now, we rarely talked to each other. He didn't seem to notice me too much when we were at the capital arguing over my position, but he didn't seem like the type to be serious on the matter. He seemed pretty friendly, so I assumed he would give me a chance.

"So, can you lend me your support?" I asked.

The dark-skinned boy thought on the question for a moment before answering, "No offense, but I can't support you."

My hopeful smile slowly disappeared. "Oh...why not?" I uttered afraid.

Elliot scratched the back of his head, attempting to smile out of pity. "I-I mean, you're a nice person and all, and I'm glad to finally talk with you personally. However, my people don't like slavery as much as your people, so my decision remains the same. Again, you seem like a good person, and I appreciate your commitment to persuade me, but I can't vote for your admission until...you know..."

He was doing his best to let me off easy. As disappointed as I was to hear his rejection, I could only nod and respect his decision. "It's alright. I understand your reasons, and I won't force you to agree with me." I got up from my seat.