Once again, a world meeting. America straightens his tie nervously. His economy has been faltering recently, and he's gotten a lot of hate for that. With Germany, Italy, Japan, China, France, England, and what's-his-face all here... America swallows and pushes through the double doors, the harsh lights blinding him temporarily. When his vision comes back, he's met with the even harsher glares of his allies. “How nice of you to join us, America.” England's tone is icy cold and full of venom. America winces slightly at his words and sits down beside Canada. Germany clears his throat to begin the meeting.
“I don't have much to report, though I can confirm that I am feeling the effects of this world-wide recession.” Germany says this while glaring at America. China refuses to even look at him. America's face goes red and he slides down in his chair. England stands next.
“My economy is weak as well, but before you ask, no, I'm not going to convert to the Euro.” He adds this last part just as France opens his mouth. England sits again, fuming and grinding his teeth. The other nations give reports, almost everyone with something negative to imply about America.
At last, it is the Untied States' turn. He looks about at everyone's faces, who are glaring and furious.
“I- I- uh..” He looks away, biting back tears. “I'm sorry. My bosses just aren't well equipped enough to handle this.” England slams his fist on the table, startling everyone. He opens his mouth to shout at America, but thinks better of it. He merely leans back in his chair and gives America a look clearly meaning, “We will talk about this later.” America fights back the urge to scream. “Unemployment is high, and taxes can't bring in nearly enough money. If I could only receive a little more help-” England can contain himself no longer and stands up, his face twisted into pure hatred.
“#@*^ you, America! If you would man up and accept your problems as they are, maybe we wouldn't all be in this situation. Take some responsibility and realize that what you do effects all of us!” England gestures to the other nations, who all nod in agreement. America cringes at his brother's words. “Maybe if you had to raise another nation like most of us did, instead of trying to play the hero all the time, you wouldn't be in this situation!” England sits down again, leaving America stunned. An awkward, angry silence takes over the room for a few moments. Germany clears his throat again.
“If that is all, this meeting is adjourned.” he states simply, stacking papers together.
Suddenly, the doors burst open, sending Germany's papers scattering in the wind.
“America!” the newcomer shouts frantically. A girl in a denim skirt and plaid, button-down top and cowboy boots drags another girl into the room. The other is a little girl, hardly five years old, crying and fighting.
“A- Alabama?”America gasps in surprise. The other nations regard the two newcomers in despair.
“You can't even keep your own territories under control?” France remarks disdainfully, flipping his hair over his shoulder. Alabama lunges toward him, scaring France.
“I'm a state, you pompous idiot!” she snarls. Recomposing herself, she addresses America gain. “I found her wandering the land of my sisters, brothers, and I. She came running up to me and Georgia, crying pitifully. I've never seen her before now, but she looks like one of us. Do you recognize her?” America kneels down and examines the child in confusion.
“Not really. She does look familiar though. Kinda like your brother: Texas.” America stands again. A slow smile creeps onto France's face.
“If you don't want her, I'll take her.” he offers. America shrugs impassively.
“She's not one of mine, and I don't particularly want her, so sure.” France picks up the child, who screams in protest.
“No!” she cries. “B- big Brother America!” Everyone freezes. America watches the child struggle for a moment longer.
“France,” he says slowly, “put her down.” France obeys, albeit reluctantly. “Who are you? And why did you call me, 'Big Brother'?” The girl wipes her tears away with the back of her hand.
“I don't have a name. No one ever gave me one. And... and I called you that because you are my big brother.”
