Russia is sent overseas to stay with America, but it isn't clear why until after he arrives. As soon as he steps foot on American soil, Russia is thrown upside-down into a family hidden from the world on a mission to protect everything he holds dear...
The remainder of the night is eerily quiet, and even when Russia is relieved from the watch, he can only manage to relax enough to stare up at the vast ocean of stars above him. The smell of rot is still vile, but being outside makes the smell almost bearable.
'I wonder if there is a water source nearby,' Russia thought.
Then something flashes in his peripheral vision. He sits up quickly and sees Texas and Canada grabbing their weapons.
"Oh," Massachusetts mumbles, "I thought you guys were sleeping."
"What are you doing?" Texas asks, lowering his club.
"Practicing some more magic," Massachusetts replies.
"Makes sense," Texas mutters.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you," Massachusetts says, rubbing the back of his neck.
"You're good, Massy, just warn us next time," Louisiana replies.
Massachusetts nods before announcing, "I am practicing some spells that flash brightly."
Louisiana flashes Massachusetts a thumbs-up.
Russia watches him practice. The spells explode like fireworks but slowly transition into more focused bursts of light. Eventually, Massachusetts looks satisfied with his results, and he begins trying to summon something that looked far more solid than his other attempts had produced.
Massachusetts strings together strange words and waves his hands around a mass of bright green light, with eyes half-open. The light condenses, and its outlines become more solid, but just before its shape is revealed, the light begins shaking. It illuminates the brief look of panic on Massachusetts' face before it implodes.
Massachusetts flies through the air for a few moments before landing hard on his back. Russia hops up and starts walking toward him.
"Massy, you good?" Texas calls from behind Russia. Massachusetts raises an arm and gives the thumbs up.
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Russia sits back down. After a few moments, Russia sees Massachusetts back on his feet and shuffling over into the firelight, his book under his arm.
"Well, that didn't go so well," Louisiana teases.
"I know! I know. I'm trying to figure out why," Massachusetts rebuttals.
"Maybe your magic is just messed up," Louisiana teases.
"HEY!" Massachusetts shouts. Texas flinches, rubbing the sides of his head.
