(I wanted to give the Nordics a chance to shine. I hope this worked. I recently went to Denmark and Norway. I enjoyed both countries! I think I like Norway more. I can see myself living there, but the winter is the only thing holding me back. Besides that, the Nordics are very iconic and deserve their moment to shine. Enjoy!)

               Macau found himself immersed in the vast city in Asiand, but he knew he would spend his time visiting his home another day. He needed to find a library first and fast.

"First time out of your home?" Monaco asked in a knowing tone, "Lucky. That means you didn't have to take any risky gambles for your life. My big brother and I did that way too often, but we never lost thanks to me"

He stared at her and his new friends that shared the same sentiment, but they weren't bothered by it.

"Ah, but that is what makes life worth living if ask me!" Spain said with pride "¿Qué es la vida sin las luchas aspasionadas?"

Romana replied in a huffed tone, "Con gli amici, amici idioti"

Spain only laughed with Portugal throwing his arms around Spain's shoulders and letting out a hearty cheer of agreement.

"Are you sure about that? Even when it came to Turkey and tomatoes?" Portugal teased as Spain nearly fell at that statement.

Macau was curious about their stories until Monaco sent him a wink to catch his attention.

"There" she spoke softly, "Now, you don't have to be afraid of us or telling us anything that is on your mind. We are human in the end, no matter what kind of cards we play"

This was a sentence that surprised the prince along with their group's behavior. It was different from staying in the palace and only reading and studying. In a way, he enjoyed this more. Learning to live life with others who are different than you isn't such a strange thing to have happen.

"Ah!" Portugal shouted as he pointed on ahead, "There it is! The grand library! That should have everything you need! What are we waiting for? Let's go!"

He and Spain ran on ahead with Romana scolding them as she followed. This left Macau and Monaco to follow, but Macau wasn't as stressed as he should be. If anything, he did feel a weight being lifted from his shoulders as he finally smiled and went with them.

"So, what should our plan be?" Korea mumbled as he paced around below deck with Norway, Greenland, and Iceland.

Iceland was cleaning his pistol, checking his magic bullets, and tending to the puffin that followed him around as Greenland secured his cloak and doubled checked his dagger. Norway was simply reading her tome that caught Korea's notice, but he decided to not comment on it for now. Denmark, Finland, and Sweden were on the deck of the ship, carrying their goods to and from the ship. It was best to hide the prince in case anyone was looking for him. Korea agreed with this, but that wouldn't stop him from trying to find a solution to this mess.

"You know, maybe we should change our plans?" Finland suggested as he went below deck to speak with them, "I don't think that would hurt"

Before Korea could give his input, he wasn't paying attention and tripped over a few large boxes! Finland let out a panicked scream before rushing to help the prince who was staring at the wooden crates he knocked over.

"What are these for?" Korea asked curiously as he sat up.

"Oh, the boxes? We use it to transport large goods. Why do you ask?" Finland answered and unsure if he was going to enjoy this plan of his when Korea held a mischievous grin as an idea formed in his mind.

Denmark and Sweden entered the room to see the prince in the box and holding a grin that worried Sweden but elated Denmark for the prince had a plan.

"OK!" Korea shouted as he bolted up from the crate and gestured to the Nordic crew, "I'll be inside the crate as Denmark and Sweden carry me to the palace! I'll get out of the crate and search the palace to get an idea of what is happening!"

Sweden, Norway, and Finland believed this to be a bad idea. Iceland and Greenland were wondering how Korea even thought of this idea in the first place.

"Let's do it!" Denmark shouted in joy as the rest of the Nordic crew turned to glare at their leader in annoyance with Korea cheering!

He grabbed a blade, jumped into the box, and waited to be carried. Iceland made sure his magic bullets were loaded or in his bag before jumping into a crate himself!

"Ice, what are you doing?" Norway asked in a strong, cold tone as she gazed at her little brother before preventing Greenland from jumping into a crate himself.

Iceland answered with an obvious shrug, "Someone should stay and look after the prince. I'll do it"

The older sister disagreed and prepared to use her magic to pick him to take him out of the box only to be stopped by Sweden placing a hand on her shoulder to stop her.

"Good idea" he spoke simply, "Just remember what we taught you"

"Thanks Sweden" Iceland spoke before sitting inside the box.

Finland covered both boxes with lids before the rest of the Nordic crew turned to each other.

"It would be best if Norway remains here with Finland" Denmark spoke, "That way, in case anything happens, they can either come in to support or save us! How does that sound?!"

Finland agreed with a bright grin until he noticed Sweden was shivering. All four turned to Norway who crossed her arms, held a disapproving expression to Sweden, and began to freeze the entire room with her emotions.

"Why?" she asked in a cold tone as ice began to cover the room!

Denmark let out a nervous chuckle before carrying the prince's box and leaving the room first. He gave Sweden a nervous smile and thumbs up before departing as Finland nervously glanced between Norway and his husband to pull Greenland behind him for his protection.

"There will come a day where Ice will have to be on his own. We need to prepare for it," Sweden answered simply as he carried Iceland's box out.

As much as she disliked the idea, she knew Sweden was correct. She stomped her foot to freeze the floor before melting it. She turned her back and let Sweden carry her younger brother out in the box. Both Norway, Finland, and Greenland watched them leave for the palace.

"Don't worry!" Finland reassured with a pat on her shoulder and then on Greenland's, "As long as they're together, they will be fine! Better now, since they no longer fight each other like they used to!"

"I do hope you're right, but I wished I could be there for them" Greenland grumbled as Finland only laughed at his comments.

If that was the case, then why did she feel anxious and darkness stirring at the palace?

"I don't think this is a good idea" Ukraine spoke unsure as Belarus and Switzerland sent her a glare.

It was a little late to protest, but they entered the grand palace to find Czechia and Slovakia at the entrance instead of Malaysia and Singapore.

"Ah! Are you the three dukes?" Czechia greeted in a pleasant manner.

"Da. We've come to meet with the king to discuss our friendship and deals of marriage!" Russia answered happily with a clap of his hand.

Czechia nodded her head as she checked her list to see it lining up with their schedule.

"Excuse me" Belarus spoke as she gained the attention of the group, "She and I need to use the washroom. We need to touch up"

Slovakia asked as he eyed them in a dreamy manner, "Well, I could escort you to there and ensure of your safety, you beautiful ladies with different bust sizes that all men should enjoy!"

Belarus brandished a knife as Liechtenstein sighed when her older brother slowly drew a pistol. It was thanks to Czechia that he wasn't about to lose his life for his dumb comment by smacking his head with her clipboard. He groaned as he felt the back of his head while still holding a silly smile.

"Ignore this, blázen" Czechia commented before using her pencil to point down the hallway to the washrooms, "It is down the hall and to your right. Please take all the time you need. Unfortunately, I will leave my partner here to help guide you to the throne room. As for the rest of us, please follow me. Prince Japan will meet with you soon enough"

She walked forward with Russia, Ukraine, and Switzerland behind her. Slovakia waved and grinned at the departing Belarus and Liechtenstein where Belarus was tempted to bash his face against the wall.

Meanwhile, Lithuania, Poland, Sweden, and Denmark made their way to the back of the castle where Netherlands and Croatia were managing the goods and trades that were coming into the castle.

"Are you sure this is a good idea?" Lithuania asked unsure as he and Poland were approaching them.

"Unless you've got another idea, we don't have much of a choice" Poland replied before flipping her hair over her shoulder and waving to the two gentlemen before them, "Like, hey there! We are the Baltic Traders! We were totally, like, wondering if you wanted to do business with us! You totally should since we make like the best weapons!"

Lithuania sighed in defeat as he followed Poland to greet Netherlands and Croatia. As they were talking, Denmark and Sweden stared at the group before an idea formed in Denmark's head as he stood with Sweden.

"Hey! Let's try and get in with them! That way, they won't be suspicious of us when we go in!" Denmark whispered to Sweden and loud enough for Iceland and Korea to hear.

Sweden only nodded his head as they quickly approached the group.

"Hey there!" Denmark spoke loudly as he waved to them with his other hand, "We are here to deliver these crates! Where should we go to drop it off?!"

Croatia wasn't sure as Netherlands spoke in a serious tone, "I don't believe that we ordered anything from you, and we will not require the Baltic Trades either"

He was not going to be easy to get pass, but they were not going to give up so easily! Sweden gave the crate to Denmark before approaching Netherlands with an idea in Lithuania's head.

"This is important goods. King China wanted this delivered. If not, then we will charge more" Sweden threatened with a glare as he faced Netherlands.

Netherlands shook his head as Croatia sighed with Lithuania approaching him.

"If you would like, we could do a free trial run and examine the weapons for free of charge too!" he offered.

Hearing the word "free", Netherlands sharply turned his to him with wide eyes.

"Free? Are you sure?" he asked seriously as he approached Lithuania with a pleading expression.

"Uh, oh, sure!" Lithuania answered as Poland stood near Denmark with an interested expression while they conversed.

Poland whispered to Denmark with Korea being able to hear them, "So, like, you're so not subtle. You wanna get in too, don'tcha?"

Denmark raised a brow at her before nodding his head in agreement slowly.

"Kay! Making sure! I believe we can help each other out!" Poland spoke with delight, "And I shall work with ya, but you've got to work with me! Do we have a deal?"

"Sure thing!" Denmark agreed as she approached Lithuania with her arm wrapped around his arm.

"And don't, like, forget about my business partner either! We need to get in there!" Poland said with a charming smile and confused Lithuania.

Netherlands wasn't too sure about this until he felt his stomach growl.

"Ah, that is my cue!" Croatia exclaimed, "Well, why not come in for some food as we talk about the details? It will be enough for us!"

Netherlands glared at Croatia, but Croatia wasn't having any of it! He pushed the groups along to enter the kitchen and take their seats. All except for Lithuania and Denmark who took the crates somewhere else. They let Poland and Sweden speak with Netherlands and Croatia and give them as much time as they can get it to figure out what is happening in the palace. Poland winked a Lithuania, trusting him to do this. He only winked back before hurrying after Denmark who carried both crates to a room. The lids slide off as Prince Korea practically jumped out of his box while Iceland stepped out.

"P-prince Korea?!" Lithuania whispered in a surprised tone, "What are you doing here?!"

"Trying to figure out what my older brother is up too while trying to stop my younger brother" he answered with a wave of his hand, "But what are you doing here?"

"Ah, right. I have a client who is searching for three people who go by Greece, Cyprus, and Turkey. He believes they're in the palace, so Poland and I went to search for him" Lithuania informed them.

Korea took that bit of information as Denmark made sure his axe was at his side while Iceland loaded his bullets.

"Ok, but let's be quiet as we search" Korea spoke as they followed the prince, "We don't want to be caught. Oh? Hello to you?"

Korea stopped as he was held at knife point by Belarus! Liechtenstein stared at them in question as Denmark approached them first.

"Who are you?" Denmark asked before gesturing to the Korean prince, "Because this is Prince Korea. We are trying to figure out what is happening here. Are you working for Prince Japan?"

"No!" Liechtenstein spoke, hoping to prevent a fight, "I am looking for my family. You see, they went missing, but they are good friends with Prince Japan. We haven't heard from them, so please, let us go with you"

"Who is missing?" Korea asked as Denmark glanced to the prince.

"Germany, Prussia, Austria, and Austria's wife, Hungary" Liechtenstein spoke in a pleading tone.

Denmark and Iceland looked to Korea who only nodded his head. Belarus withdrew her knife and stood at Liechtenstein's side.

"Ok but stay close. I don't know much about the basement, but if we are going to find the missing people, we should start there" he spoke with command in his voice as the others agreed.

The entered the basement and found it dark with numerous tunnels! Korea recognized some as tunnels he and his siblings would take to escape from. He decided to check if his siblings really escaped from the palace first.

"I know it will be a slight detour, but I need to make sure nae hyeongje jamaedeul are not here" Korea spoke in a whisper, "I know Vietnam and Macau escaped, but I do not know about the rest. Are you fine with this?"

They agreed with nods of their heads before Korea ran through the tunnels with them close behind. Korea first checked Hong Kong's room and was relieved to not see his hard-working younger brother here. He decided to check on Taiwan's room next and was startled to find his little sister on her bed, hugging herself and trying not to cry.

"Yeodongsaeng!" Korea whispered as he pushed the stone to slowly push the door open, "Daeman!"

He whispered as she jumped and turned to see her older brother! She ran to embrace him as she finally cried. Korea held her close and rubbed her back while whispering comforting words to her. The rest of the group waited by the stone doors to give the siblings a moment before Korea asked her what had happened. She informed him of what Japan had done, gave details about his guards, the arrest of Singapore and Malaysia, and her, Chosǒn, and Thailand being locked in their rooms!

"Wait a minute" Liechtenstein spoke as she kneeled before the royal siblings, "You mentioned a man with blonde hair slicked back and bright, hard blue eyes. Are you sure?"

Taiwan nodded her head as she held onto Korea tightly.

Liechtenstein's features were distressed as she whispered, "That's Germany, but I do not understand. Why is he doing this?"

As Denmark went to comfort her, they heard footsteps walking through the hallways. Quickly and quietly, they went through the stone doors and departed from Taiwan's room.

"Let's get Thailand and Chosǒn" Korea whispered to them, "After that, we will search for the others"

They followed the royal siblings and made their way to Thailand's room where he was pacing.

"Thailand!" Taiwan exclaimed as she jumped to embrace him.

"Nxng saw? Phi chay?!" Thailand expressed as he barely had time to catch Taiwan, "What are you doing here?"

"Trying to get you and the rest of our siblings out of here before anything else happens" Korea explained, "Come on! Chosǒn is the last one! After that, we are doing to leave!"

Deciding to see where this would go, Thailand nodded. Together, they left his room and went to Chosǒn who currently being visited by Romania, Bulgaria, and Moldova.

"Hiya Prince Chosǒn!" Moldova greeted warmly with a wave of his hand, "How are you?"

"I am fine" the prince answered nervously as he was sitting on the edge of his bed and gripping it tightly with a fearful expression.

To Romania, he didn't particularly like that expression for it reminded him of Moldova's when they were poor. Moldova was too young, sickly, and exhausted, but most of all, he was absolutely terrified in the beginning. They didn't have much, but it was thanks to his hard work and meeting Bulgaria that they were able to save Moldova and find a living for themselves. Truth be told, he and Bulgaria were going to work with King China, but when they were greeted by Prince Japan who offered them more wealth. Bulgaria took it right away while Romania was skeptical of this. He agreed to do it, but he was sure that King China summoned him for a reason. Romania was determined to find that reason which he believed to have something to do with his siblings.

"Prince Chosǒn" Romania spoke calmly with a hint of skepticism, "Do you know what is happening?"

The North Korean prince flinched, confirming Romania's suspicions.

"Who cares what that man is doing?" Bulgaria said with a shrug, "We are getting paid! Nothing matters!"

He stood up and walked around with his back to the stone walls, holding the secret passage. He continued to chat about how much money they were going to make from this. Romania sighed as he wondered how he was going to explain everything to his partner until he felt a tremendous energy coming from the walls.

Korea slowly came to a stop at his younger brother's room and gasped as he placed a hand on his chest.

"Is everything ok?" Taiwan asked as Thailand placed a hand on Korea's shoulder.

"Y-yeah" Korea spoke as he shook his head and looked at the stone doors before realizing his younger brother wasn't alone, "Oh, no, North Korea isn't alone. What are we going to do?"

Denmark gazed through one of the peep holes and nodded his head as he examined the room carefully. He felt his hand on the stony walls and found the one that was not secured into the wall.

He whispered in a soft voice, "Ok, leave everything to me. Iceland aim your bullets and make sure it is the ice ones. Aim for the floor after I take the first swing. Ready, Ice?"

Iceland loaded the bullets and nodded to his oldest brother before taking aim at the floor. Denmark took a deep breath in and pushed the secured stone to unlock the door. Chosǒn was covering his mouth to keep himself from shouting as Moldova only waved his hand with Romania was on guard.

"And now, we will make it rain!" Bulgaria shouted in delight with his hands on his hips and nod of his head, "Why are you guys so horrified with my deductions of trying to get much more money?"

Denmark took a mighty swing to strike Bulgaria's head with Iceland shooting the ground with an ice bullet to freeze the floor! Romania's feet covered with fire to melt the ice around himself and Moldova as Korea jumped to Chosǒn in relief and a protective nature. Lithuania caught the unconscious Bulgaria.

"Who are you?" Moldova asked in a whimper as he clung to his older brother tightly.

"I believe we should be asking that" Belarus spoke as she toyed with a knife, "This is not your home. Why are you here? Or, would you rather I cut you right here and now?"

"We are not threatening them!" Denmark scolded with Iceland holding an interested expression.

Iceland then raised a brow before asking, "Then, why did we knock out this Bulgarian man?"

Denmark didn't have an answer, but he didn't want to threaten them! Romania was on guard and prepared to pull Moldova back. The tome tied to his waist was bursting into flames as Korea pushed Chosǒn to Thailand and Taiwan before jumping between the two members of the Nordic crew and Romania.

Romania ceased his spell as Korea stared at him to speak in unison, "Who are you?"

Everyone froze as they looked at the prince and Romania before Korea stared at the tome bursting into flames.

"It is strange" Korea said before pointing at him, "It feels like I know you, but I don't. So, why is it when I look at you, I know you"

Romania stared at the prince with a questioning expression as well before gazing to his siblings who were terrified. Romania couldn't forget those fearful expressions that reminded him of the ones Moldova had. He looked at Denmark who was in front of Iceland who Romania deduced was his younger brother. Lastly, he noticed that Belarus was standing side by side to Liechtenstein who both looking after each other in a similar manner to that of sisters.

"What is your story?" Romania asked calmly as he quelled the raging fires that are burning inside of him to hold a pacifying expression, "I know something isn't entirely correct about this palace. I was speaking with your oldest brother until Prince Japan took over. Now, I come face-to-face with you and that feeling I had when I met your oldest brother is back. What is your story?"

Korea was stunned as he searched his thoughts to find a possible answer.

He took a deep breath before answering, "I don't know what my story will be, but right now, my only goal is protect my siblings and find a way to stop my brother from making another mistake. I can't ignore the fact that everything isn't right and that I can do something about it. I know my brother would want me to do something, so I will do something, da zai!"

Korea didn't realize his voice was loud and how heavy he was panting. He even failed to realize tears were falling from his face. No one spoke a word. They could only stare at Korea who was trying so hard to be brave and do something about their situation. Taiwan and Chosǒn slowly took steps forward to embrace their big brother who was shaking the tears off his face.

"I am sorry" Korea apologized as he tried to compose himself, "But I know there is no time for tears. Once I understand what is happening and my siblings are safe, I will cry. I don't know what my story will be, but I will do everything I can to ensure that my siblings and our home will have a future"

That same resolve ignited Romania's flames of protection. He knew what he was going to do, and whether Bulgaria liked it, he didn't care.

"How can I help you?" Romania asked as he placed a hand on his chest and took a bow, "I was summoned by your oldest brother to help him with something. He passed before he could tell me what to do. I personally do not like the fear Prince Japan is instilling to the people, and I want to do something about it. Prince Korea, I can tell that you want to do the same thing as I do when it comes to our siblings. I trust that feeling more than anything, so I want to help you"

This surprised everyone except for Korea. For some reason, Korea knew that this feeling and relationship to Romania was important. He knew he could trust the Romanian mage! So, without hesitation, Korea pushed Chosǒn to Romania and Moldova.

"Then please, look after Chosǒn for me!" Korea said with a pat on his younger brother's shoulder, "He's my younger brother and needs to be looked after! I trust you to look after him for me! Can you do that for me? Oh! Right! Lithuania! Belarus, Taiwan! I have a request for you three as well! Can you please take Thailand and Taiwan too? Please take them out of here and look after them for too!"

Korea was completely trusting them as his siblings were surprised and against his idea.

"But we shouldn't leave Japan like this!" Taiwan protested with Thailand nodding his head in agreement.

"We should stick together!" Thailand added strongly, "We can't let anything happen since it is just us!"

Korea faced them strongly and answered firmly, "And you can't do that if you are in here and behind these walls. You need to get out of here and find the answer to saving our home. If you only stay here, you will bring more harm than good. With them, we will find another way to save our brother and restore everything to normal. I know this is going to be long and hard, but I know you will be fine. You will find the answers and bring us together!"

He ruffled Taiwan's hair to then holding a friendly smile to Thailand.

"You've got that fighting spirit Thailand. Use it to fight for us. Taiwan, you better bring joy wherever you go! Oh! Chosǒn! Learn everything you can too or do!" Korea said with a brave expression before turning to the groups, "So, you can do this from here, right? Please look after them for me!"

"Yes, I can take Thailand" Lithuania reassured the prince with a grin.

Belarus only nodded her head in agreement as Romania bowed and used his magic to levitate the unconscious Bulgaria to follow them. They left the room together as quickly and quietly as they came. As they travelled through the hallways, Korea stopped at a branching path that didn't exist before.

"When was this made?" Korea wondered as Romania recognized it.

"This must've been made recently then" Romania answered, "The only people who have gone through that room are Japan, Germany, and Feliciana, but I don't know what is behind that door"

For some reason, Korea felt dread as he decided to open the door. His eyes were wide as he could hear gasps and stunned tones at the sight before them. It was a jailhouse that locked people behind cold bars!

"Do they need help?" Lithuania asked as he ran forward and checked on the people behind the bars.

Denmark motioned for Iceland to check on the prisoners while he and Romania kept watch with Moldova staying with them.

"Are you here to save us?" a tired women spoke as she sat up from her cell with a weak smile.

"I doubt it, but if they're here, could you please save my wife? She's ill and needs more help than I do" a refined voice spoke in exhaustion.

"How long have you been here?" Taiwan asked in horror as she examined the lady before here.

"Ah, you must be the youngest princess, right? I am Belgium. My older brother and I were here for a while. We were tasked by your oldest brother to find certain items. Though, things took a turn for a worse when your brother threatened to go after our dear little brother" Belgium answered for the princess in a soft tone.

She has brown hair and a pair of bright, green eyes. Her green ribbon was torn up and her dress was dirty and lost the color. Despite that, she was still holding a smile and herself.

"Austria?!" Liechtenstein shouted as she ran to his cell and kneeled before him, "What happened to you?! Are you ok?! What do you mean Hungary is ill?!"

His brown hair was completely messy with his glasses the only thing kept neat, so he could see with his violet eyes. His cravat was torn up. His brown jacket was ripped along with his pants. His brown vest was covered in dirt as his shoes were covered in dirt.

"Liechtenstein?! What are you doing here? Oh, no, where is Switzerland? Don't tell me he's behind those doors right now. That doesn't matter" he spoke and grabbed the bars, "Please find Hungary. She's still ill. I have no idea what our other brothers are doing along with Feliciana. Everything is falling apart, and I don't know how to stop them"

Lithuania ran down the halls and stopped when he saw the two of the three people he was sent to find in cells!

"Ah! You must be Cyprus and Greece, correct?" Lithuania spoke as he kneeled between their cells with Thailand behind him.

"Who wants to know?!" Cyprus shouted first in a defensive manner.

He has brown hair with a few strands longer on his right side with dark green eyes staring at them. He has a roughed up dark green shirt with a pair of ripped up shorts. His sandals are broken, but he was still fighting against the bars.

"I have to ask that too. I am still ticked off with Turkey for this" Greece commented with annoyance.

Greece has brown hair that was dirty with a curl with olive-colored eyes. His white shirt is completely torn up shoving his buff chest. His brown pants are completely ripped up. His brown boots were off his feet and with his white hat.

"I am Lithuania. I work for the Baltic Traders. I was hired by Egypt to find you and bring you back to Europa. But what happened to Turkey?" Lithuania introduced with a bow before turning to them.

"Tch, that bastard Turkey gave up so easily, that's what" Greece complained with a scoff, "He lost that fight with Feliciana and then took us as prisoners. Now, we are locked in here as Turkey doesn't even try to do anything!"

Greece slammed his fist against the stony wall to cause a dent. Korea couldn't believe this as he wondered how he was going to help everyone get out of here. As he thought about this, he turned to see another door. That door was calling to him and Romania. Romania turned to the door and stared at it as Korea approached it. He opened the door and was greeted with a sight that he didn't believe he would ever see. It was a treasure vault! It was holding numerous golds, trinkets, silvers, and other priceless artifacts. Why would this be here? He turned to close the doors and focus on the prisoners and everyone here first. He wasn't sure how though.

"What do you mean you haven't found Prussia?!" Feliciana's strong voice shouted with furry, "Where did he go?!"

"I don't know" Germany confessed in a distressed tone, "I don't know..."

Everyone was quiet as they heard their voices! Liechtenstein's eyes were wide as she prepared to run towards the other room to speak with their youngest brother only for Belarus to react first and deliver a strike to Liechtenstein's stomach! Austria's eyes were wide as he saw his little sister collapse in Belarus' arms.

"What are you doing?!" Austria's stern voice spoke.

Belarus gave him a sharp glare before answering, "She would've given us away and caused us problems! We need to go! Zaraz!"

Korea only nodded his head as he turned to everyone.

"She's right. We can't stay here anymore. We will come back and help you. I promise. For now, we have to leave!" Korea spoke in a whisper as he urgently motioned everyone to leave.

Everyone picked themselves up and prepared to leave as quickly and quietly as they could. The doors to the room Feliciana and Germany were staying opened as she helped him walk forward. He was distressed about Prussia being missing in the chaos they caused. Moldova turned around and gasped in delight as he waved to them.

"Hi! Germany! Feliciana!" Moldova spoke loudly as he waved to them with everyone stopping in their tracks with fear and worry.

Romania waved his hand to cast the unconscious Bulgaria to Denmark before turning to greet Germany and Feliciana. The rest slowly made their way back to the crates and tried to find a way to escape only for one person to stand there and observing the opened and discarded crates.

"Ah, so you were the uninvited guests?" Turkey spoke as he slowly turned around with his saber at his side, "Now, how shall I deal with you?"

Everyone froze as Turkey took a few steps towards them! None of them knew what to do for fear of being in more danger and suffering a worse fate than those already locked away. Only Lithuania was brave enough to even stand between them and Turkey with a furious expression present on his features.

"What about Greece?! Cyprus?! And Egypt?!" he shouted from his gut and strong sense of justice, "How would they feel if they saw you like this?!"

There was dreadful silence as Lithuania's eyes were wide with realization and fear. He is a passionate young man who would always defend whatever he believed in. His strong beliefs gave them away completely as well as put them in danger!

"Piç!" Turkey yelled before drawing his saber as Lithuania drew his sword to block the flurry of strikes!

"Go! Get out of here!" Lithuania urged to the others behind him as he took quick steps to move from the flurry of red strikes.

Without even hesitating and seeing everyone holding panicked and pondering expressions, Iceland drew another ice bullet and shoot the ground underneath Turkey! The Turkish man slipped and grunted as he fell to his knees, struggling to even balance himself on the icy floors.

"Hold her" Belarus commanded as she gave Liechtenstein to Taiwan to hold before she took a running start and effortlessly skated across the ice!

She drew her dagger towards the right side of her face before raising her dagger upward to strike Turkey's mask! Barely having any time to protect himself, Turkey cursed under his breath before using the blunt end of his saber to strike the ice to break it before using his saber to break the ice into piece and knocking it into her! She raised her dagger, but it wasn't enough to protect her as she flew towards the wall. Lithuania jumped to catch her before she was injured any more. Denmark rushed between them and the incoming Turkey to clash their respective weapons against each other, neither willing to back down from each other.

"Rahat!" Romania cursed under his breath when he and Moldova heard Lithuania's declaration.

At that moment, Germany let out a gruff scoff and ordered without a second thought, "Feliciana find out who that was and bring them here!"

"Si!" she answered with a grin before running at such fast speed with her bow and arrow ready to go!

Germany drew his whip and cracked it along the floor to deliver strike and strike to it, showing off his immense power. Romania snapped his fingers to release Bulgaria and awaken him. Bulgaria wasn't entirely sure what was even happening, but he knew to pull Moldova away from the fight and do everything he can to support his best friend somehow. To be honest, Bulgaria knew his chances of winning a fight with the clearly buff German man who could break his spine easily were not high. Then again if Romania was fighting him, then probably had a good idea.

"I suggest you surrender since I have no intention of holding anything back!" Germany declared as he swung his whip downward to try and smack the Romanian man!

Romania waved his hands in a circle motion to create a ring of fire and use it as a barrier to protect themselves from the strike! Both Romania and Bulgaria were startled to see a striking crack against the fiery barrier from Germany as both began to wonder what their next idea was. Chosǒn stood behind them as he began to shake nervously before taking a glance to see Denmark fighting and blocking Turkey's strikes with everything he had. Chosǒn knew it! There was no way out of them! They were going to lose!

Korea began to panic as he saw everyone in danger. The world began to blur around him again as he tried to think of something, anything, that could help them. He couldn't hear anyone around him. He couldn't let anything happen to his siblings! He must get them out of the palace, stop his brother, and save their home! There was no time to just stand there and do nothing! He has to do something! Without even realizing it, he was running! Running straight towards the clash between Turkey and Denmark! His siblings stood in their place and only stared at their older brother who didn't stop running! Blue and red lights flowed from his sleeves and appeared to cover him in a gentle blanket.

"Back away from my family, da zai!" Korea yelled as he clasped his hands together with red and blue lights flowing into each other in a circle formation.

Everyone stared at Korea who drew his hands forward with the red and blue lights smashing together to create a powerful dragon!

"Is that a dragon?" Thailand asked in awe as Taiwan only nodded her head in reply.

"Not just any dragon" she whispered as she was sure, "That's one of the Great Dragons of Aisand, the red and blue dragon that vows to protect the seas!"

The dragon roared and flew between Denmark and Turkey, ceasing their fight before dancing protectively around his holder who had his eyes closed. As Princess Taiwan stated, the dragon was both the colors of red and blue. Both colors sparkled around the smooth scales that also appeared to alternate to those colors. The feathers interchanged from red to blue as the claws were dripping with those very colors. Beautiful horns appeared on the dragon's head to make it appear mighty and king like as the long white beard was present on his features. Once the dragon ceased dancing, it was right behind Korea who opened his eyes and took a stance.

"Ah, so you were there" he spoke in a gentle tone to the dragon, "I appreciate you appearing when I need your help. Please! Help me ensure my siblings will flee and be able to return here one day!"

"Korea!" Taiwan cried as she prepared to run to her brother's side only for her to be picked up by Belarus who grabbed the princess and Liechtenstein.

"Listen to your big brother!" Belarus snapped with an icy glared, "He knows what he is doing even if it doesn't make sense or appears weird! Let's go!"

Denmark wasn't going to leave Korea here to face Turkey alone, but he did know Sweden was with Netherlands and Croatia. He would need some help and just in case, he didn't want Iceland to be here. He was sure Norway and Greenland would have his head. If Sweden didn't come back, then Finland was going to tear heads to find him. Denmark made up his mind before glancing at Iceland.

"Ice! Help Lithuania get Thailand out of here!" Denmark ordered as he spun his axe in his hands before slamming it to the ground with a smirk, "I've got things here!"

Without realizing Denmark's intentions, Iceland followed his orders as he pushed Lithuania and Thailand forward with the three younger sisters behind them to arrive in the kitchen as Netherlands and Croatia ceased their chatting with Sweden and Poland with their stares on the sisters.

"How rude!" Poland chided as she drew her lance, "You should, like, know it is not proper to block the entrance for ladies! You are supposed to open the doors"

Netherlands scoffed as he turned his head with pipe out, "Do you think I care?"

Fire burst from the pipe and flew towards them, but Sweden simply raised a blade to have ice melt the fire with Poland charging forward with her lance spinning before thrusting it to strike Netherlands only to be blocked by Croatia who used a cooking pot! They were in a stalemate until Iceland took aim and fired another ice bullet below their feet to make them slip!

"Get going!" Iceland shouted as Belarus huffed in annoyance at how long it took.

"Let's go and be quiet or I will silence you myself!" she snapped as she pulled Taiwan after her and made sure Liechtenstein was still under her arms before running as fast as they could.

Croatia groaned as Netherlands picked himself up to gather more fire and smoke to his pipe. Poland, Sweden, and Iceland prepared themselves for another round of fighting as they heard a great roar coming from the room behind them!

"Like, what is that?" Poland asked as she turned around with her head tilting to the side in a curious manner.

"Right, Korea created a dragon" Lithuania spoke as Netherland's eyes were wide.

"Get the prince!" he ordered Croatia before running towards the prince!

Iceland loaded another ice bullet and prepared to shoot the Netherland's leg only. He fired his bullet, but a sharp arrow struck his bullet to the floor with more ice covering it! Standing in their way was Feliciana who was still standing there with a wink and her bow in her hands. Sweden immediately pulled Iceland behind him and held his blade as she charged at them with incredible speed to strike her bow against it!

"Scusa! But you need to either leave or surrender, and I have a feeling, you're not going to surrender!" she taunted as she pushed herself away from the two Nordics with Poland and Lithuania were standing in front of Thailand to face Croatia.

"I thought Romania kept you busy" Iceland remarked with annoyance and a cold expression.

Feliciana only scoffed with a flip of her bright brown hair over her shoulder before answering with her arms stretching, "Oh, I don't need to fight him when il mio amante can handle him all on his own just like I can handle you!"

The two Nordics were worried how Denmark and Korea were fairing as well as anyone else in there. They couldn't be pondering for long as Feliciana raised her bow again and charged at them!

"Get away!" Korea shouted as he waved his hand to have the red and blue dragon fly to strike against Turkey's saber and Germany's whip!

Both grunted as they were pushed back from the group with Korea visibly growing exhausted from awakening his power and using it for the first time. Denmark let out a mighty yell as he swung his axe again to strike against Turkey's saber with all his might as Romania snapped his fingers to have fire burst around Germany. With all Denmark's might, he began to crack Turkey's saber who gasped as it shattered before their eyes! Korea was relieved to see Turkey losing his weapon to fight with Denmark swinging his axe over his shoulders.

"What do you want me to do?" Denmark asked as he glanced over his shoulder to check with the prince and took note of his exhausted state, "Should I lock him up?"

Korea slowly nodding his head as he didn't want to bring more harm to others. They heard someone approaching and were surprised to see Netherlands coming who stared at the dragon.

"It is you" Netherlands spoke, "One of the dragons of Asiand is here. That means the other one is indeed in your brother"

Everyone heard this as Korea wondered which brother Netherlands was referring to. He glanced to Romania's group and saw Chosǒn was shaking in place.

"Denmark" Korea whispered nervously to get confirmation, "You would do anything to protect your siblings, right? Even if everything is clearly falling apart around you, and you're not sure if you're going to be ok in the end?"

The captain of the Nordic crew understood Korea's meaning, held a confident grin, and spun his axe in his hands before standing between the prince and Netherlands.

"Oh, yeah! I know that feeling too well! So, how do we want to do this?" Denmark asked, confident with his choice.

Korea swiftly turned to Chosǒn who was standing behind Romania, Bulgaria, and Moldova before grabbing his younger twin's hands and kneeled before him. Denmark took another swing to keep Netherlands away without hitting the Dutch trader.

"K-Korea?!" Chosǒn exclaimed in a surprised tone as he kneeled and stared into the kind yet protective eyes of his older twin brother.

"You'll be ok. I know they will look after you" Korea whispered to him as he rested his head against Chosǒn before turning his attention to Romania, "I don't understand magic, but you can use it to get yourselves out of here, right?"

Romania knew what Korea and Denmark were attempting to do, and he agrees with them. He would ensure of Chosǒn's safety with his life

The Romanian man nodded his head in understanding before confirming, "Are you sure about this? Will you be ok?"

"Of course, da zi!" Korea said with pride as he gripped Chosǒn's hands to let a warmth flow from him to his younger brother, "Now, get going!"

"La revedere, Germania!" Romania taunted before snapping his fingers as fires burst from his snap to cover him, his little brother, Bulgaria, and Chosǒn in flames!

"Korea!" Chosǒn yelled in fear as he reached out for his older twin with the flames impeding Chosǒn from trying to grab him.

With a small smile, Korea was satisfied that his little brother escaped with Romania's group.

"Godverdomme!" Netherlands exclaimed in frustration, "We lost it! We lost the Fire Tome of Europa! Don't you dare lose the dragon!"

Korea and Denmark shared a nod before smirking. They had to get the last two groups out of the palace, so they took a running start and ran pass Netherlands to rejoin Sweden, Iceland, Lithuania, and Poland who were keeping their guard up against Feliciana and Croatia.

"So, how is it going?" Denmark asked before sharing a nod to Poland who stared at Lithuania and Thailand.

"Not good! We are losing here!" Iceland snapped in annoyance before taking aim, "What is the plan here? How are we getting out of here?"

"Like this!" Poland shouted as she used the blunt end of her lance to strike Lithuania's chest to push him into Thailand and out of the room!

"Poland, why!?" Lithuania shouted surprised as Denmark was in front of Sweden and Iceland.

"Hey! Sweden!" Denmark shouted as they were slowly backing away to the exit with Sweden raising a brow at the captain, "You're in charge!"

Realizing their friends' actions and being too late to even stop them, Denmark strongly swung the blunt end of the axe to push Sweden and Iceland out of the dungeons before he took a strong stance. Taking a deep breath, Denmark took a mighty swing and yelled with all his might to strike the exit and destroy it! Sweden pulled Iceland to his chest to cover him while staring right at Denmark with wide, furious, and worried eyes. Denmark only held that goofy grin, wanting them to see him grinning until the end as the exit crumbled into debris and dust. With that, Sweden had no choice but to flee with Iceland in his arms before turning to Lithuania and Thailand.

"Are you ok?" Sweden asked as he held Iceland close to him.

Lithuania was staring at the ruined exit and shook his head with his hands in a fist. Everything was going to plan until he messed everything up! Now, his best friend is there without him and their friends! Not to mention Prince Korea was there too! He shook his head. He shouldn't dwell on the negative thoughts since they did find out more information at least. Now, they need to use that information and return, stronger, smart, and better than before.

"No, but I know if I let my anger control me now, I will never save Poland, Greece, Cyprus, and Turkey. Right now, I'll bring Thailand into the Baltic Traders. We should keep our distance for now, but someone should remain here and keep an eye on the palace" Lithuania replied as he tried to collect himself, "What will you do?"

Sweden only stared at the castle with a cold expression. His grip on Iceland tightened as well as Denmark's final order to him. He was now captain of the Nordic crew, but he didn't plan on holding that title forever. He would return it to Denmark one day.

"We will stay here and keep an eye on things" Sweden answered with a nod of his head, "We will not leave Denmark and the others behind and make sure nothing else happens"

He finally let go of Iceland who was still in shock of everything and didn't even let go of Sweden's arm. The tall Swedish man held his other hand out to the Lithuanian man who took the hand and gave it a firm shake. With that, Lithuania took Thailand with him as Sweden and Iceland returned to the Nordic crew.

As for Romania's group, they appeared in a burning fire outside of the palace and in the farmlands. Luckily, no one was present, so they were able to gather themselves and slowly began to think of what they should do next. Chosǒn hugged himself with Romania and Bulgaria staring at the prince.

"You can handle him, right? You've got this big brother thing down and all that" Bulgaria whispered in a not so loud tone to his friend.

"Yes, I can do it. Get the camp ready" Romania replied as Bulgaria went to make camp.

Moldova approached the prince with a worried expression and tried to calm him down, but his older brother kneeled before the prince.

"I know what it feels like to lose everything" Romania spoke in a gentle tone, "But there will be no need of worry since you have us, and we will do everything we can to help you and your family. For now, you can indulge in those feelings, but when tomorrow comes you will not"

Romania stared at the prince with his burning eyes glowing with strong conviction as Chosǒn stared with teary eyes filled with wonder. Romania turned to the pile of sticks to burn it by casting a spark towards it to keep them warm for their night under the stars.

Belarus carried the unconscious Liechtenstein back to their hotel room and let Taiwan rest in the room before turning to the door to leave. The princess did grab Belarus's wrist to stop him as she held a panicked expression.

However, the Belarusian duchess pulled her arm from the princess and gave her a rough shove to the bed! This startled the Taiwanese princess who stared at Belarus with fear. That look the princess held was an expression Belarus would never dare to show to anyone unless it was her siblings.

"How long do you plan to cower?" Belarus asked roughly, "Do you now realize the situation you are in? Nor what your family has done to ensure you're not trapped in that cold castle! Ah, apologizes. I suppose I am rougher than most. Regardless, your brothers worked hard to ensure of your safety. I wouldn't let that go to waste. I would do everything you can to ensure something can be done. I must return to my older siblings and report to them everything that happened. Watch over her. She'll be in shock when she realizes she's not there and everything with her brothers"

With that, Belarus turned away from them, leaving her words for the princess to ponder on. Taiwan was shaking, but she held herself and closed her eyes. Belarus wasn't wrong, but Taiwan was conflicted over everything that transpired and decided to sit in silence and hold herself for a while. She'll pick herself up and work with this group to the best of her abilities.

"WHAT?!" Estonia and Latvia shouted in disbelief with Estonia's glasses nearly falling from his face as Latvia covered her mouth with her hands.

She then approached Thailand who was holding a disappointed expression. Lithuania was furious and only Estonia could approach him. Egypt was standing there with a calm expression before looking at the palace.

"I can't believe she did that" Lithuania grumbled in frustration as he tried to make sense of this, "Why couldn't she tell me that was the plan!?"

"She's stubborn" Estonia reminded his friend, "She won't go down so easily. If anything, she's planning something there with the others. All we can do is prepare, but I am honestly at a loss of what to even do. I don't have a plan at the moment"

That didn't help Lithuania at all, but Egypt was the person who approached the disappointed Thailand with a piercing expression. Thailand stared back with a startled expression as he nearly tripped before catching himself. The Baltic Trio stared at them with mixed reactions; Lithuania was pensive, Estonia was curious, and Latvia was hesitant.

"Why do you hesitate when you have such strength dormient inside of you?" Egypt spoke plainly, "You have such potential. Why would you hold it back when you can make use of it?"

No one said anything. How could they? The Baltic trio were unsure of what to even say now. Thailand fell as he let his words sink in. It is true that he was holding himself back, but could he really do anything to help with his strength? What could he possibly do to help?

It was Lithuania who took control of the situation and spoke in a reasoning tone, "I believe we've all had a long day. We should take this time to rest and think about another strategy. We are working with the Nordic crew and should find a possible solution to this"

Although Thailand was reluctant, he did turn in for the night. Egypt focused his attention on the Lithuanian man and bowed.

"Thank you for telling me where they are. It brings my mind great relief to know that they're alive. Now, all I need to do is save them" Egypt said in relief, "Please accept my gratitude as well as theirs. I know Cyprus would give it, but Greece and Turkey might not give it so easily"

"It was nothing" Lithuania confessed surprised and relief at some good news.

He even had a hard time retiring for the night, because he could not forget Poland's determined expression and facing the unknown alone. He vowed to come back to help her, even if it would take him a long time.

Lithuania and Thailand were not the only ones who would have trouble sleeping tonight. When Sweden and Iceland returned without Denmark and Prince Korea. They were horrified to hear everything that had occurred. The normally placid Finland grabbed his axe and marched right towards the door, only to be stopped by Sweden who placed a hand on his husband's shoulder.

"You cannot expect me to stand here and do nothing" Finland said strongly as he sharply turned to Sweden with a glare, "I refuse to leave Denmark there along with the prince! We can't leave them!"

Sweden slowly pulled his husband close who broke down by yelling in frustration and speaking Finnish before letting out a cry. Iceland only stared at the wooden floors with tears threatening to fall until he felt Greenland holding his left shoulder as Norway took his right shoulder.

"He's an idiot, but he is our idiot" Norway spoke in a soothing tone, "I know it is hard, but he wants us to be strong and come back to him. Right now, we are going to be emotional. After that, we will find a way to get him back along with the prince. Do you understand, me?"

Norway had Iceland stare at her to find a crying younger brother who was trying to be strong. She held him and Greenland as the Nordic crew let out their frustrations and cries, but they vowed to come back to save their captain and aid Prince Korea. For now, they will let their emotions out until tomorrow came to aid and comfort them.