(I really forgot how long these chapters are. I feel like this makes much more sense than my first time writing this story too. I don't know if I want to do a sequel to this yet, but I do love what I did with this. Also, I wonder when we will get mafia versions of the Nordic crew? Enjoy!)

"So, are you sure you're leading us the right way?" America asked with a curious and mischievous expression as Prussia rolled his eyes.

"How the scheisse Frankreich handled you is beyond me right now, Amerika" Prussia commented with a shake of his head before answering, "Look, I was tasked in surveying the area of the kingdom! I know where they are! I was probably going to be assigned to take them out if the prince called for it!"

Canada sighed at them as she tempted to render one of them unconscious, but she couldn't figure out who. Vietnam, on the other hand, was wondering how long it would take Prussia to realize that America was asking similar questions for his own amusement.

The group was walking through the forest with Prussia close to strangling America to shut him up until he stopped in utter relief to see the giant, wooden house with a dock!

Prussia smiled in relief until it completely faded with America asking an obvious question, "Is that it?"

Struggling to not draw his sword, Canada walked towards the house and shrugged before knocking her hand on the door. Vietnam stood behind the female twin with Prussia going after them. As for America, he stared at the ports. He knew they were going to meet two people, but he saw a ship docked in the port that was not from Aisand. He rushed to the group with a handle on the pistol that Vietnam noticed.

"What is it now?" she asked as she raised a brow at him and change in behavior.

He remained quiet and alert as the door opened to reveal a tall, dark skinned man with dark black hair that has a fringe and golden eyes. He was wearing a simple white shirt and brown shorts.

"Hm? Ah! Vietnam! Is that you? What are you doing here with these Westerners?" he asked surprised as she couldn't help herself and ran to embrace him!

"Indonesia" she said in a soft tone before gazing up at him with relief, "It is so good to see you again. Is Philippines here?"

"Of course, I am, Vietnam!" he shouted excitedly as the door swung open to show himself and reveal the guests they had with them, "We are sorry for not arriving for your coronation, but it might've been better that we didn't! Especially since Malaysia and Singapore went down so easily! I knew that British gentleman couldn't help us! He was a jerk!"

America couldn't help but snort at Philippines's remark against his friends being captured and the jab at British gentleman. Canada was curiously if it was the same person that helped care for her and twin, but she knew that would have to wait.

He was a handsome, young man with his brown hair parting in the center with a pair of light brown eyes. He wore a white sailor outfit with a blue scarf wrapped around his neck with a flower pinned over his left shoulder. He has a pair of brown shoes on.

"This is Indonesia and Philippines" Vietnam spoke as she waved her hand to them, "They are guards at the royal palace with Malaysia and Singapore. I try to train with them as often as I could. They're good friends, but who are they?"

She looked over their shoulders to see a group of travelers sitting in the living room.

"Oh! These are the traders from Afri!" Philippines introduced before running back inside to grab a photo he and Indonesia took of them, "They're pretty cool! They brought a lot of stuff to trade and draw up contracts with! I want to work with them one day!"

The twins greeted them as Prussia let out a nervous laugh as he caught the eyes of one the traders glared at him!

"No! Wait a second! This is different! I promise!" Prussia shouted as he took a few steps back only for her to roughly grab his arm to prevent him from leaving, "Kenya! Please! It is in the past, right?"

America quickly stepped between them before that fight could escalate with Canada pulling the girl gently away. Philippines grumbled as he wished to see a fight break out only for Indonesia to shake his head.

"What did you do?" Canada asked Prussia in a surprised manner as she looked at the Afri girl.

"Well, it wasn't my fault, but it happened" Prussia spoke nervously before shaking his head, "A trade deal went south, and that fire did spread a little out of control"

Canada stared at Prussia in disbelief as America was a little bit impressed by this.

"Reminds me of the fire Canada spread and destroyed my farmland" America recalled with a glare at his twin with Vietnam staring in disbelief, "Sibling fights, am I right?"

Prussia stared at the twins in horror before asking in a whisper, "What kind of sibling fights did you two have?"

The North American twins shrugged at the notion, but they were not fazed by their concerns.

"Tch, so you worked with the Western who caused those fires! How annoying!" Kenya spoke with a shake of her head before turning her attention to Vietnam, "But if she needs help, then I am for it. We heard about what happened to your kingdom and family. We will do everything we can to help you"

She is a tall, young lady with her long, brown hair tied in dreadlocks. She has dark skin and bright brown eyes. She is wearing a tough, brown jacket over her black shirt with a light, brown skirt, and tough brown boots.

Uganda placed a hand on Kenya's shoulder to calm her down. He was bald and had dusty, gray eyes. He was wearing a light brown shirt with black shorts accompanied by tough, brown sneakers.

"No need to get so angry, Kenya" he reassured before waving to them, "Hello! I am Uganda! Forgive us if we seem a little tense around your Europan friend. We've ran into trouble with a few that have caused us trouble. For me, it was an odd couple that claimed that they weren't married even though they acted like it"

"I'll say! They wouldn't leave unless we gave them stuff at a cheap price! I work hard! That was unfair! But I will say, the clothes did suit the French man a lot more than the British one!" a lady spoke as she rubbed her brown hair, "Right! I am Zimbabwe! How are ya?!"

She has messy, brown hair that was tied back in a ponytail with her brown eyes shining brightly before turning her attention to her ribbons and needles. She has an elegantly woven white shirt on with black beads sowed into it. She has a black skirt and shorts underneath it. She has brown boots and a hat hanging around her neck.

"You can say that again. I'll never understand them, but they were just as chaotic as you are, Prussia" another one spoke as he is checking on his tools, "Oh, right, I am Botswana"

Botswana as long, lighter brown hair in a ponytail with warm brown eyes. He has a tough yet light brown pants being held up a belt holding multiple tools used for many different means. He has a messy, yellow shirt on with brown sneakers on his feet.

"So, it seems I am the only one who has had good trades with Europa! It was a pleasure to do business with the Nordic Crew. Ah, nice to meet you! I am Ghana!" he greeted with a wave as he happily reflected on his good fortune with working together with the Nordic Crew.

Ghana has long, brown hair that is frizzy with curious dark brown eyes, He has a tough, black shirt and pants on with sturdy boots on. He has a pickaxe at his side as well as a bottle holding cement. He was tougher than he appeared.

"A step up from that weird couple and Prussia as well as that pair of Iberian brothers. And we saved the best for last! I am South Africa!" the final member of the group introduced with a grin.

He has messy brown hair and dark eyes. He's tougher than he looks too. He's wearing a brown shirt that was button up and cargo shorts with a belt to hold some supplies of his choosing. He has brown boots to help him hike through the terrain.

"And together, we are the Afri Traders!" Kenya announced with pride as everyone let out a cheer, "We were coming to Asiand to do some trading and decided to speak with the knights first. Lucky that we did! Otherwise, we would be dealing with the chaos in the palace"

Vietnam stiffened at the mention of her home, but Indonesia knew there must've been a reason for their arrival.

"Why did you come here?" he asked seriously, "I doubt you wanted to simply catch up. What is on your mind?"

Vietnam recounted everything that had transpired with the twins and Prussia adding important information on occasion. Hearing everything, Indonesia understood why they were here while Philippines simply listened intently.

"I see" Indonesia spoke as he understood everything, "Has Netherlands found any of the Artifacts of the World then?"

"Well, yes" Prussia answered nervously with a glance, "He's found the Fire Tome of Europa and two Dragons of Asiand. He has yet to find the other two tomes, the Oceanic Axe, the Shield of Afri, and the daggers of Latin America"

Indonesia raised a brow to ask another question, "And what of the Twins of North America?"

"You seriously don't believe those are real, right?" Prussia asked with a shake of his head, "Look, I am willing to believe in the other items, but come on! No one knows if the twins are real! No one has even had official prove nor documentation of it. There is no way those twins exist!"

As they debated, the twins and Vietnam had the same thought as they looked at each other. Could it be that America and Canada were the twins in question? Although, they didn't have much to go on with that, they didn't rule out the possibility.

"Pah! The Shield of Afri was stolen by those from Europa!" Kenya snapped furiously, "It was taken when that British man and French man came! They took the shield and probably pawned it off!"

The twins were a little worried about that, but America let out a "huh" as he thought about one of the artifacts.

"You did say the "Daggers of Latin America", right?" he asked as he tilted his head to the side while sticking his tongue out a little bit in thought, "I am sure of it. I don't think it is in Asiand if I remember correctly, and I know I do"

Canada turned to her twin in question before realizing what he was referring to and groaned.

"Ah, that's right. He should have it" she commented with a hand to her face, "Well, we know a few business partners in Latin America. Needless to say, we rarely do business with them since someone destroyed their livelihoods!"

It was obvious that she directed that comment to her twin who let out a nervous chuckle and scratched the back of his head.

"Sounds an awful like that British man" Uganda commented with a laugh and seeing some resemblance to him in America.

"I am nothing like him!" America snapped defensively before crossing his arms with a pout, "I am my own person!"

Noticing his defensiveness, Uganda decided to not anger the American. Hearing about the Daggers of Latin America and the twins' knowledge of it, Indonesia knew where they should go next.

"Well, then our next destination is simple" Indonesia spoke with a nod of his head, "We need to head to Mongolia's place. I am sure you remember Mongolia, right Vietnam?"

She nodded her head as she reflected rather warmly, "Yes, he has homes everywhere, and his home is a little north of where we are. We used to play there whenever China wanted a break from his royal duties. Mongolia would care for us as China was given a break. If I recall correctly, India and Pakistan should also be there as well"

Philippines exclaimed in delight, "And we would receive help from three strong friends! I am sure everything will go our way soon enough!"

America liked Philippines optimism and wrapped his arm around his shoulder with a grin. As they were celebrating, Prussia finally let himself relax and fall to lay down on the couch. He sighed in relief as Kenya noticed this.

"Why do you care so much about those the twins?" she asked with a brow raised as she next to him.

Prussia knew he couldn't hide anything from someone who knew him to a degree. He slouched as he let his head fall with his eyes closed.

He sighed before confessing, "Because those two were looked after a good friend of mine. I plan to not have anything happened to them. Otherwise, I would never be able to face my friend again"

Kenya had to admire that about the German soldier in that regard. She would make sure that her group was safe from harm and kept away from danger if she could help it. Though, she wondered why he was here and not with his family he clearly loved so much.

"I know what you're thinking" he spoke with another sigh filled with worry before turning to determination, "But if I was going to do anything, I would have to leave and ensure change happens. I promise to come back for them and then never leave them again"

He gazed at the twins and Vietnam who were happily chatting with the rest of the Afri Traders, Indonesia, and Philippines. He warmed his heart to see them having some fun and chatting with each other as well as exchanging ideas.

"Besides, I don't think it is a bad thing that I guided them" Prussia confessed as his caring gaze never left them, "After all, if we can guide them, teach them right from wrong and learn from our mistakes, then everything will turn out better in the end. At least, that is what I believe"

Kenya agreed silently before a smile finally appeared on her face as she watched them having fun together. As everyone was taking this moment to relax, Vietnam stepped out and went to sit on the dock. She took off her shoes and let her feet soak into the water. She leaned back and sighed in relief. It was a pleasant feeling for her to enjoy as well as a chance for her to relax. Philippines knew something was up with her, but he wasn't sure if he should ask since it appeared that she wanted to be alone.

"Hey! Phili! How's it going?!" America asked as he tried to be friendly with new group of people and thought Philippines would be a good friend to make, "Why are you hesitating, buddy?"

"Well, I am not very good with the atmosphere at times" Philippines confessed with several nods of his head, "I want to be a good friend to her, but I don't know how to!"

He pouted with his arms crossed over his chest as America noticed his gaze on Vietnam. He couldn't tell if he was trying to be a friend or more, but America would try to help Philippines. The atmosphere was his problem? No problem for America!

"If you ask me, the atmosphere doesn't matter all the times!" America said with pride as he placed a hand on Philippines's shoulder and grin, "No, sometimes, you need to create the atmosphere yourself! You can do anything to create it! It doesn't matter as long as you make it happen!"

Hearing this from the Western, Philippines's eyes were wide with admiration and chaos that was from America. Deciding to take America's advice, Philippines held a mischievous expression and marched right to Vietnam's side.

"So, how's it going, Vivi?" he asked as he sat next to her with a giggle.

"Better, but it isn't enough" she answered as she didn't bother to open her eyes to then staring at the setting sun, "But I have no intention of doing nothing. I will do something about it and no one is going to stop me, that's for sure"

Philippines only laughed as America waited at the doors and watched them while biting the inside of his cheek. He didn't want to bother them, but he wanted to give her some comfort and reassurance.

"Are you not going to be the "hero" you always claim to be?" Canada asked in a knowing tone as she stood right behind him who jumped, "Why are you getting cold feet now?"

He rubbed the back of his head in an embarrassed manner to grumble, "Because I don't know what to say to her and help the situation. I am not good with this stuff! I normally cause problems! You remember what happened during my fight with Mexico? The Alamo?!'

Canada rolled her eyes before pushing him forward! He struggled against his twin and tried his best to stop her when she fought back. They were soon looking hands and arms against each other as they refused to give up, yelling at each other that gained everyone's attention.

"And there's that white boy" Vietnam spoke with a sigh as she glared him and huff, "I have no idea what to think of him at all. He's the most annoying yet friendly person I have ever met. Yet he's smart and tries his best. He clearly loves his twin and wants to help. I cannot figure him out. Why are you looking at me like that?"

Philippines was holding a knowing smirk with his eyes shining with interest as a hand was holding his face.

"Uh huh" he spoke as he decided it would be best to remain quiet and let her continue speaking, "Sure, sure. Keep going. I will only listen"

She held a glare and decided to not speak as Canada finally had her chance to throw her twin at them!

"Look out!" America yelled as he was stumbling through with Vietnam and Philippines standing up to face him.

"What is wrong with you?!" she snapped as she prepared to lecture him with her back to Philippines.

Expecting Philippines to help her catch America, she didn't believe Philippines would be up to anything. The Filipino sailor mischievously pushed Vietnam forward before running to avoid them and being tossed into the water! She let out a yell as she crashed into America and fell on top of him!

"Why are you like this?" she groaned as she lifted herself up and stared at him who was blushing deeply.

"Been asking myself that for a couple of years now" America answered as he tried to look at anyone but her, "Could you please get off me? I am a little embarrassed about this"

This surprised her as she picked herself up and sat on the port again with Canada and Philippines pretending and failing to not listen in. She shook her head at them while turning her attention to the flustered America who sat away from her.

"I didn't mean that" America confessed as he glanced at her, "But I was trying to help if I could. You're kind of awesome and cool, Vietnam. I don't want you to carry that all on your own if I can be there to help"

She blinked at him and his honesty. It warmed her heart to know that she could depend on him whenever she would need it. Holding her hand out to him, she held a small grin.

"Thanks, America" she spoke in a direct tone with some sweetness to it, "That does mean a lot. I know I will when I need to. For now, I want to enjoy this moment of peace. Remember the dance? This is the same except we are watching the sunset"

Staring at her with wide eyes and then the setting sun, America grinned at her brightly as she rolled her eyes fondly at him. She gave him a playful shove as he let out a loud, obnoxious laugh he would try to hide that she enjoyed.

Canada and Philippines watched fondly as they shared an expression of understanding, leaving the couple alone to enjoy the setting sun. The Afri Traders, Prussia, Canada, Philippines, and Indonesia exchanged stories and took the night to relax before finding a way to counter the prince and his allies, leaving the couple to enjoy their time together and in the warmth of the sunset.

"Damn it, no luck again" Switzerland spoke as he entered hotel room that he was staying with his little sister, Taiwan, and the duke's family, "Are you sure we should be tracking them? I can't seem to find those jerks"

This troubled Russia as well. At the rate they were going, they were sure that Prince Japan would find the twins and Vietnam before them. They would need another approach and fast, but what could they even do? It was only their group after all. They didn't know anyone else who could help them.

"Switzerland is correct" Russia spoke in dismay, "We will need another approach to this. Otherwise, we will never be able to find them. Does anyone have an idea? I am open to suggestions"

There was silence which didn't help Russia, Switzerland, and Taiwan at all. Until Taiwan recalled the groups that helped her and her siblings escape.

"What if we do know of them, but we just don't know where to look for them?" she suggested to them unsure, "Belarus, you were with me. There were two groups of people who helped us escape. I am not sure where they could be, but we should ask for their help!"

Ukraine asked softly as he sat next to her, "Ok, so where do you want to start looking for them?"

She wasn't sure, but Belarus huffed and crossed her arms over her chest in annoyance.

"I wished you didn't say anything regarding them, but I believe I do know them" she spoke in a knowing tone with frustration laced into it.

"Who was it?" Ukraine asked surprised to hear that it was even someone Belarus knew.

She turned away before sighing, "It will not make big brother happy to hear, but it was the Baltic Traders with Poland, and I am sure the other group is the Nordic Crew'

This made her siblings jump with Switzerland even taking a step back and his little sister standing up in a surprised manner.

"Belarus! How could you not mention them?! I am sure they would try and be helpful! Well, somewhat helpful to us" Ukraine spoke as he scolded his little sister.

As for the Belarusian, she glared daggers at her oldest brother and shaking her head in disagreement.

She mumbled in a strong disagreeing tone, "And yet, they left us after our deals went south! I do not trust the Baltic Traders at all! Big brother would agree too. Epescially considering how he and Poland had a fall out!"

"I wouldn't have called their fight a fallout" Ukraine commented with a shake of his head and reflecting at their fight with each other.

"Excuse me, but what happened? I've met Miss Poland, and she didn't seem aggressive. Did something happen?" Liechtenstein asked curiously.

It was complicated story, but a trade deal didn't end well due to mishandling proper pay along with proper credit not being given. This was further even more when the Baltic Traders were not being paid properly and couldn't afford money for food. Poland was finally fed up and helped them revolt.

Now, the Baltic Traders and Poland worked together and kept themselves away from Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine. Ukraine tried to make peace with them and had asked for his little sister to help, but she wouldn't do anything on the matter.

Ukraine explained to the little Liechtenstein who then asked in an understanding tone, "Oh, well, if we cannot ask help from them, then should we try the Nordic Crew?"

"Admittedly, that might be better if it were my little sister and me" Ukraine spoke as he rubbed his head, "Yes, we had another issue with them, but specifically Finland. That was one of Russia's first deals that didn't go well to say the least"

Switzerland did his best to not curse under his breath as Liechtenstein and Taiwan stared at Russia surprised. Russia held a gloomy expression with a sulk. It wasn't that the deal didn't work, it was that the duke didn't handle it well. He didn't know what he was doing and forced Finland to help him against his will.

"Then, you must make do without me" Russia spoke as he sighed with realization, "We will need help and cannot do this alone. I have an idea for you, but will you trust me?"

Everyone stared at the duke who was holding a scared yet serious expression. This was rare for the duke to appear like this and knew he had an idea.

"Ok, so please trust me, but I believe it would be best if I wasn't present" Russia spoke softly, "I have made enough trouble and that will only cause us trouble. What we need to do is keep distance and work faster. I will take Switzerland and Taiwan with me as we search for those twins and her older sister"

"Big brother!" Belarus protested strongly as she was ready to deliver her counter to him.

Russia only replied by ruffling her hair with a grin that stopped her from speaking.

"Belarus, Ukraine" Russia spoke softly, "I know you two can handle this without me. I always cause trouble for you. As a result, your reputations have suffered too. Without me, I know it will do better. So, please, find the Nordic Crew and protect little Liechtenstein until we return with the twins and the princess, da?"

His little sister began to cry and shake a little as Ukraine held a soft expression before placing a hand on their shoulders. She pulled them close as Belarus crying at the idea of them being separated.

"I know this seems sad that we will not be together for a while, but we will be together again" Ukraine reassured them as they sat down and held each other, "Once this is all over, we will be together again and travel. So, please be strong and be there for those who need your help. I love you both so much"

Russia only nodded his head as Belarus was teary eyed and wanted to protest. Russia took out his bag of coins and gave everything he had to his little sister and big brother. He gave them a final group hug as Switzerland turned to Liechtenstein with a sigh.

"I know everything is so messed up and our family is apart" Switzerland spoke softly before turning over his favorite pistol to his little sister, "But I know you can handle yourself without us even if Austria refuses the idea that a lady should handle one of these. He's the biggest idiot since his wife could clearly bench press us if she wanted. Regardless, stay with them and look out for each other. I will help bring our family, kicking and screaming if I have to!"

Liechtenstein knew her big brother would keep his word, but she didn't want him to handle this alone. She placed her hands on the gun and grinned warmly at him.

"Do not worry, big brother" she spoke softly and in a knowing tone, "I know we will be together again. I will be there when it happens. I know we will say goodbye for now, but we will say hello soon enough"

Switzerland couldn't tell anyone how lucky he felt when his little sister stuck with him through it all. Sure, their brothers would fight and quarrel, but they were always together. He was delighted to have Liechtenstein with him.

"Alright, but if anything happens, don't hesitate to pull the trigger when you need it" Switzerland spoke before he pulled her into a tight hug, "And know that we love you and will always be there for you no matter what"

Liechtenstein was caught off guard, but she embraced him warmly. She hummed in agreement before letting him go. Taiwan only stared at them as she felt incredibly lonely when she wasn't with any of her siblings.

Realizing this, Russia and Switzerland pulled her with him. She was caught off guard by their gesture as Switzerland nodded his head and Russia was holding a warm expression. With one last goodbye and wishes, Russia, Switzerland, and Taiwan left them to follow the twins and Vietnam.

"Well, they will be fine" Ukraine spoke as he watched them leave in the night before staring at their fleeting forms, "Now, we should carry out their plans. Belarus, where do you think the Nordic Crew is?"

Belarus crossed her arms over her chest and nodded her head. She motioned them to follow her as they turned to leave from their hotel room. Following Belarus through the night and avoiding the people who were turning in. They arrived at the docks to find their ship.

Meanwhile, the Nordic Crew was preparing for another night of rest. They were keeping an eye on the palace and observing where everyone left and returned from it. So far, nothing happened, but they were being cautious.

"Do you think we will be closer to getting Denmark out of the castle?" Finland asked with worry as he finished the dishes and turned to his husband and their brothers.

No one spoke anything because they weren't sure. It bothered Finland the most since he was a man of action than staying in one place and waiting. Sweden placed a hand on Finland's shoulder to calm his husband down.

Iceland and Greenland shared worried expressions with Norway taking care of the ship's menial tasks as her tome floated around her. She was sure she sensed a tome nearby, but the signal faded away as the days went by. She didn't want to say anything about it for now until she was confident that she could locate the other two tomes.

"Hello! Excuse me! Does a Mr. Finland live here?!" a kind, male called out to them.

This surprised the Nordic Crew who turned to each other. They didn't make any appointments with potential clients at all. Sweden motioned for Iceland and Greenland to wait here as he, Finland, and Norway exited the ship to see who was calling for Finland.

"Are you sure this is the right place?" Liechtenstein asked nervously as she placed a hand over her chest to look at the ship.

Belarus only nodded her head with her arms crossed over her chest. Ukraine bit the inside of his cheek and wondered if the Nordic Crew retired for the night. He was ready to have them turn around and retire for the night, but they heard someone laughing.

"Ah, you were looking for them too, aren't you?" Turkey asked as he stepped out from the shadows and approached Ukraine who stood in front of his little sister and Liechtenstein protectively, "I mean no harm. I am looking for them too. I want to speak with them. If we can meet with them, that would be great!"

Belarus made sure to turn her face away as Sweden, Finland, and Norway stood on the deck of the ship and saw the people talking amongst themselves.

"Norway" Sweden whispered softly as he made sure to stand in front of her with Finland at his side.

Understanding Sweden's intentions, she closed her eyes and hummed softly to cast a mind reading spell. She opened her eyes to reveal a soft, blue light that allowed her to gaze upon anyone to read their minds. She looked at Ukraine's group first to learn what had happened recently and that Russia was their brother!

"Finland's former trade partner is their relative, Russia" Norway spoke softly without letting anyone else hear her words.

Sweden was nervous as he turned to Finland who was trembling with anger. He didn't forget how sour their deal went and was ready to march down there to give his siblings a piece of his mind.

"Hold on" Norway whispered as Sweden placed a hand on Finland's shoulder to stop him from running, "They have Princess Taiwan in their custody. It appears that Russia left with the princess and Switzerland to track down Vietnam and a pair of twins from North America. He and Belarus referred to us for extra help and protection. Oh, and they're willing to pay for their troubles as well"

Sweden still looked at Finland and Norway as an idea was forming in his mind.

"Norway, can your spell reach Denmark and Finland?" Sweden asked as he finally had an idea while noticing his husband was itching to chase after Russia.

"Yes, but what is your plan?" she asked with arms crossed over her chest.

"We need to agree to one and fool the other. Finland is the best option to go after Russia. He can remain with him and his group. Norway can use her magic to speak with them and us as well as Denmark. We can coordinate with each other to find the best solution to save everyone in the castle" Sweden spoke before turning to Finland to hold his hands and rest his head against his, "I know how you feel about Russia. I understand and helped you as best as I could to get you away from him. I wouldn't ask you to do this if there isn't any other option. Please, rakkanni, I know you can do this, my love"

Finland sighed in understanding before nodding his head.

"Yes, rakkanni, I will do this" Finland spoke in a whisper before pulling Norway into their group hug, "I'll go after Russia and ensure we've got a connection to each other. Please be safe and keep each other close. We've got to do this together"

He pressed a soft kiss to Sweden's cheek before stepping off the ship to approach Ukraine, his group, and Turkey.

"What do you want with our crew?" Finland asked seriously as he held a serious expression to them.

Ukraine was relieved to see Finland and asked politely, "I need your assistance for extra protection. My brother left, and it is just us if that is alright. We can pay properly too!"

He took out the pouch of money that Russia gave him and handed it to Finland. Finland took the bag to examine it himself and realized it was authentic and genuine too. He nodded his head in agreement as Turkey looked interested in this.

"Your brother just left, is that right?" Turkey asked with interest before looking at Finland, "We will investigate that for you! We can't have the prince's partners betray him! Not at all! Come Finland! I am sure you can help me with this"

Turkey adjusted his mask as he motioned Finland to follow him. Finland was hesitant, but he only nodded his head and decided to leave with the Turkish mercenary. Ukraine wanted to stop them, but he, along with his little sister and Liechtenstein, felt a strong chill as a voice spoke.

"I understand how this looks, and I apologize for reading your minds" Norway spoke to them, "I will explain everything that is happening. You're welcome to board our ship. I promise, we will protect you. Also, Finland will not bring any harm to your brother. His husband had a chat with him before going after him"

"Are you sure?" Ukraine asked as he realized something about this power, "And this power isn't normal. Do you have one of the Tome's of Europa?! That is the only way you could perform this spell!"

All three stared at Norway who nodded her head at them with Sweden standing behind her.

"That is correct" she spoke softly before holding her hand out to make it snow, "And since you know I have one of the Tome's of Europa, you must know that the other Artifacts of the World are gathering to the palace. We must prepare for their inevitable clash"

Ukraine nodded his head in understanding as he, Belarus, and Liechtenstein boarded their ship.

"So, do you think can track him?" Turkey asked in a knowing tone to Finland who only stared at him, "I know you've clashed with Russia before. You're one of the few people I've heard about that could even fight him back, so don't tell me you can't do it nor make me wait. I will know"

Finland had heard of Turkey too and knew that was true. Finland fought with Russia and was able to withstand and beat him. Finland could do it again, but this time, he would have to work with Russia.

"Joo" Finland answered firmly as he marched forward, "I can do it. Follow me and keep up"

With that, Finland led Turkey and gave chase to Russia's group. As for Russia's group, they decided to head through the forest and head north from Switzerland's tracking abilities.

"Where do you think they're going?" Russia asked curiously as he took off his coat and looked through the thick forest.

"I think the knights are there, but I believe another partner of ours is there" Taiwan answered as she tried to think who it could be, "I know Mongolia is there for sure! Maybe he can help us and knowing my big sister, she's doing to ask for his help too!"

Russia's expression warmed greatly as he nodded his head in delight. He hoped to make wonderful friends there and be of great help to them as well!

"Well, what are we waiting for? Let's go!" Russia spoke excitedly as he took a single step forward only for Switzerland to stand in front of him and pull the trigger to make Turkey reveal himself and hold his blade for protection!

Russia was caught off guard as Taiwan was behind him and Switzerland who drew his rifle at Turkey. The Turkish mercenary chuckled as he approached them with Finland behind him! Russia was surprised to see Finland standing against him again!

"Did you know that your big brother is looking for you, Rusya?" Turkey spoke with a mocking laughter, "Don't tell me you're going to leave us so soon? Do you think Prince Japonya would appreciate that?"

Russia's expression changed from his childlike innocence to a dark, cold expression that was almost devoid of life itself! It startled the always serious Switzerland and the nervous and excited Taiwan as both took steps from him.

"Ah, so you do not wish to be my friend" Russia spoke in a serious, cold tone, "Then you shall fall and become my enemy!"

He waved his hands at his sides to unleash a powerful, cold winter blast towards Turkey and Finland! Switzerland took off his coat to cover Taiwan and keep her warm as he stared at the powerful winter the Russian duke unleashed.

"I've heard of this, but I didn't believe nor ever see it myself" Switzerland explained in horror, "That is the powerful Russian Winter that is a power unique to the duke itself!"

Everything was covered in snow and ice in seconds! It almost appeared that was snowing overnight! It grew cold and chilly with Turkey trying to warm himself up by catching his blade on fire.

"Shveytsariya!" Russia ordered as he took calm steps through the raging winter around him, completely in his element, "Take the princess and stay in the forest! I will join you soon enough. Let me take care of them"

Nothing phased the Russian duke who continue to let the cold wind blow violently, the snow stick onto anything, and ice pierce through anything! Turkey was cursing under his breath at the cold with Finland only keeping to himself and not saying anything at all.

"Do you understand this power of winter?" Russia spoke with a chuckle as the wind and snow continued to rain down on them with grace and power, "It is cold, merciless, lifeless, powerful, and devastating. It will claim everything slowly and surely for it will always take!"

He stomped his foot with a loud thud to release a powerful, sharp, cold breeze towards Turkey! The Turkish mercenary only held the blade in front of himself with fire burning! The saber was able to melt the coming ice and snow and barely keep him warm. He cringed and struggled to keep the warmth. Being distracted, Russia lunged forward before summoning a metal pipe. Covering it with ice, he took a mighty swing to use the blunt end to knock Turkey out by striking his face!

"Argh!" Turkey cried out in pain as he fell into the cold snow with some blood pouring from his mouth.

Russia only gazed downward at him with the blunt end red a bit. He glared and was ready to take another swing to injure Turkey further. Yet, Finland loaded his sniper and took aim at Russia from behind.

"Ah, I see you haven't changed at all, Finland" Russia spoke before turning around and staring at the Finish sniper, "Still upset about our deal, I see. I don't suppose I could change your mind, can I?"

"I am only doing this for Ukraine and my family" Finland answered simply, "Trust me, if it was between us, I wouldn't mind letting you have it again. However, we need to work together whether you like it or not. Well, I suppose whether I like it or not. I plan to keep your siblings and my family safe. Do whatever you need to do. If you don't come back, I'll find you and bring you back. Do I make myself clear, Venäjä?"

Russia stared at the pair of violet purple eyes that had caused him much trouble in the winter wars. The same eyes that could see through the ice and snow to strike him down whenever he desired. Laughing before turning around to follow Switzerland and Taiwan.

"Da" Russia answered in a crystal-clear voice and letting the winter die away peacefully.

Finland sighed in relief before turning to Turkey. He effortlessly picked up Turkey and marched to their ship to take care of him.

"I do hope we know what we are doing" Finland spoke in a quiet whisper, "Otherwise, I believe everything will fall apart before we even have a chance to fix it"