Playing the Card of Jiātíng [N.Korea,China]

[china]

Regardless of wounds

The day it will heal will come

Leave everything to me

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“We may not like them [North Korea] but they are a neighbor.”
~ Vice-Foreign Minister He Yafei
Nov. 23, 2010
Bombardment of Yeonpyeong

He watched the scenes go by from the glossed cover of his side widow; greens blurring with the occasional dash of blue, the light of the sun adding vibrant hues to the bleak day. His lips were firmly set into a line, refusing to utter one spoken word to his chauffer—yes, he knew there were over a million reasons to not get involved. Yes, he understood it was in the his best interest not to speak out; neither condemn nor acknowledge what had happened. Yet against his better judgment, he had urged himself to cross the heavily patrolled border to his south. Departing from Beijing early in the morning, even before the first light of sun had its chance to touch the eastern soil. No words, vocal or written had passed through the elder man; with one look to his left, and a motion of his hand—they were off. Heading directly for North Korea, despite the hesitancy he got from the Chinese officials they passed along the road.

Internally, Wang Yao was fuming. Full of distaste, restrained fury, and disappointment geared towards his younger siblings. He’d refused to take any sort of aircraft, referring instead to traveling in an automobile; giving himself restrained time to breathe and think. As the years went by, his dark eyes looked to the past; one in which he was riding on horseback to see both of the Koreas. Not just Sang Kyu, but both. When both had been equally happy to see him, and he could hold them up in his arms like the prized jewels they were. He was young and naïve too, once. Believing that the two would stay as one; if not a loving relationship, then one of simple tolerance. Hopes could only go so far, however, and Wang Yao was not surprised to receive the broadcast news that North Korea had opened fire on South Korea. It was all over the world now, this news, and perhaps that was what sickened him the most. Was his sibling so hard headed to think that he could possible slip this attack under the rug? Did he honestly not see the ripples he had caused, carved into the world around him—their eyes were not blind, after all.

You are no longer a child, Sang Kyu. He thought, attempting to put into formulation what he could possibly say in this situation. There is no excuse for irresponsible behavior. You know that, I’ve taught you as much. To his knowledge, there had been no contact with North Korea since the firing stopped—none, at least, that was not replied to with vile threats. There was no way around it now; China would have to step in for the North’s sake. Even though he was momentarily livid about the said issue, he would approach it with certain apathy. Sang Kyu would not be given the pleasure of witnessing his elder’s anger; that was a pleasure reserved for dire confrontations. There would be no giving North Korea anything, not that he believed the younger wanted anything nor cared anymore. If he vented his anger, Sang Kyu would know that he had done something that provoked a rise from China—he endangered the world then, by seeing it possibly repeated.

He loved his siblings—he still did, no matter what they had possibly done against him or the world. He couldn't abandon Sang Kyu, but he also couldn’t allow him to continue the reckless behavior that was quickly steamrolling downhill. Threading his hands together, they came to a rest on his lap. His sleeves were already beginning to slowly slide down his wrists, covering up his hands to his knuckles with the deep crimson silk. He’d been wearing his best suit, but changed into more loose-fitting clothes for the trip. There was no doubt that the younger country would still find him intimidating without it; besides, he needed to be able to bring rationality to the fray—not make it more tense. His relationship with America economically was beginning to clench up, specifically because those blue eyes were on him every time when anything marginally close to this happened. Saying he was surprised it did would have been quite the lie, but what could he say to the other superpower—besides the obvious, that is.

Fingers lightly drumming over the cotton cloth of his legs, the automobile passed through the tightly controlled border with little hesitance. There was very small traffic, and his way to Sang Kyu was paved out before him; what he so chose to do would be done. He would not give North Korea room to struggle, if the United States wanted peace talks, there would be peace talks. If he asked Sang Kyu to honor the decisions he’d signed to, the younger had better do so. Supposedly, the UN was already on East Asia’s doorstep; proclaiming that the act had been ‘one of the most serious incidences since the Korean War.’ Frowning, Yao felt his hands clench into fists; the muscles straining as he clenched his eyes shut. That time, he did not want to remember. The driver noted his discomfort, and while they exchanged no verbal comforts—he bowed his head in condolences. Wang Yao returned the gesture, as if apologizing for his own incompetent shadow; becoming enveloped in it from time to time, like a child outrunning the darkness of night.

It was not his intention to wear his remote feelings on his sleeve, nor did he impose his power. China was surely deadlocked within itself, watching and observing with minor fascination. Even when the UN began barking for the tightening of North Korea’s collar, Yao had been hesitant to do so. Wu Dawei* among others had pushed him to see North Korea for what he was now, little use to China. His boundary kept the United States of America off of his doorstep, but with America so indebted to him now, what was he to gain from Sang Kyu’s immaturity? The boy, his boy, was still young. And I love him, I cannot deny this. We are family first, this is what we need to remember. Conflictions between duty and affection hotly poked his conscious, leaving Wang Yao with a charred heart and mind. He would do what was best. That was all. He knew what was best. He didn’t live over five thousand years, and learn nothing in the process.

The car lurched forward, and the parking break was set into place. Yao’s hand moved up, giving a sweeping motion that ordered his chauffer from the car; hopefully making his arrival to Sang Kyu known. He would walk, with the pride of a dragon—so need be; watching Sang Kyu under his knowing eye, and he would see to it that there would be a change. Even if he did provoke the younger into a temper tantrum, the elder no longer cared for Sang Kyu’s personal comfort. He’d lost the right to that the second he shot at South Korea. Momentarily, Wang Yao gathered his thoughts—and stepped from the car on nimble feet. Sliding his hands into his sleeves, the elder nation walked briskly towards the known building his sibling would be residing in. Apathy washed over his face, and in its place there was a mask of ambivalence. If he could only be enlightened to know what to say to make the younger see, he prayed to the spirits to reveal it before it was too late.

Softening his steps as he neared what could only be Im Sang Kyu, the Chinese clenched his hands on his wrists, invisible to the younger’s eyes. ”Would you please explain to me,” came the monotone, if not tensed voice of his elder. ”What you were thinking?” There was no formal greeting, no smile from Yao—only a heavy, damp and gray air looming in the background. His question hung, awaiting a response—if not also demanding one be given.

((Sources/Information:

www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-11876831 ;; Loosening bonds over China and North Korea due to its ‘irresponsible’ behavior.
www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-11955625 ;; “China has hit back at US comments criticizing Beijing for not reining in its North Korean ally, saying military threats cannot resolve tensions on the Korean peninsula.”
www.atimes.com/atimes/Korea/LB20Dg01.html ;; “China buys some time for North Korea,” pretty much all you need to know. Minus the involvement in pulling North Korea (eventually) to talks.

And eventually: www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/12/09/AR2010120901076.html ;; China chooses to support North Korea, but neither condemn nor accept North Korea’s actions at Pyongyang.
* = Chinese official that openly codemned China's relationship with North Korea as "fruitless."
Jiātíng or 家庭 means "Family" in Chinese.))

[North Korea]

He was once again under fire from the rest of the world.

Figuratively, that is. The same couldn’t be said for his twin, who had in fact received the real thing in the form of artillery bombardment. From him, North Korea, of course.

He knew what he was doing. He’d expected all of this—from the counter-fire from the South following his attack to the condemnation from the UN. Not that anything was exactly hard to predict. Why would South not fight back? Why would the UN not condemn it? And of course, the rest of the world had, in a sense, expected him to do something like this eventually. The only question was when. It was all a part of a cycle that seemed to repeat itself without fail. Of course, things had begun to change. South Korea was no longer as tolerant as he once was, America was beginning to increase his presence in East Asia, and, according to rumor, even China was beginning to lose patience with North Korea.

And then there was the succession process… Ohh, the succession.

But, as far as Sang Kyu was concerned, those small changes were meant to signal that it was time to break the cycle. This time would be different, he was sure.

This time, they would get back to Six Party Talks. This time, they would be reunited. This time, the Grand Plan Sang Kyu had been plotting in the back of his mind would finally be fulfilled. How convenient it had been, the way everything had fallen into place. How convenient it was that South Korea was holding naval drills in disputed waters, that Jong Un needed a way to prove himself to the military just as Kyu was beginning to get impatient. Jong Un had needed a way to prove himself a leader before the succession. Sang Kyu had needed a way to get his idiot twin’s attention. And, of course, he’d needed an excuse. The naval drills had provided that. He was sick of getting the cold shoulder. If his voice would not be heard by the international community, then exploding artillery shells would. It had been perfect, and in a time of change, things were sure to be different in a dire situation.

Of course, there were things that had not, nor would they ever change. The twins were just as stubborn as they had always been—Sang Kyu refusing to change his ideals just because the rest of the world had, Yong Soo refusing to comply with his ideals, and neither showing any sides of budging. Wars of words and propaganda between them raged on, and yet, neither was willing to return to the armed conflict they’d left open ended nearly 60 years ago.

For one, though he would never admit it, Sang Kyu himself did not have faith in himself to put up as much of a fight as he had six decades ago. As he’d retreated into isolation, the rest of the world had sped on ahead without him, leaving him in the dust economically, socially, and militarily. Most of his weapons were Soviet era…or things he’d managed to get from China for a bargain. Compared to the high tech weaponry of his enemies, his was total junk.

Of course, that wouldn’t stop him from trying. That was where the risk came in. Knowing fully well there was a possibility of South Korea and America retaliating against him, he had made about zero effort to stop the plans to bombard Yeonpyeong island. If anything, this would test how far he could push South. He did not want to hit the breaking point, but unless he did things like this, he would never get an idea of just how far that was. He did not want to accidently push the South too far and bring a war upon himself, but if that did happen, he did not intend to surrender. No, he would not let the world have the satisfaction of seeing him at the mercy of his enemies. He would fight to the bitter end, however bitter that may be.

The risk of the move all boiled down to just how much tolerance South Korea had left, and though signs were saying ‘not much,’ Kyu still believed his brother and his country were too soft to re-engage in a war. Reluctantly, Sang Kyu would remember the meeting two brothers had held in secret only a few months ago. “ I'm afraid what will happen to us. Afraid of what they'll make me do and afraid the next time we meet it will be as enemies...” Yong Soo had said. Afraid. Afraid is what he had said. He would still be reluctant, hopefully, and that is what his plan hinged upon.

Now all that was left was to see how everything played out. Already was the first step: dealing with China. Sang Kyu had already received the message from one of the government officials—a certain Mr. Wang Yao would be arriving to discuss some things.

About an hour before his expected arrival, Sang Kyu went to put on what he considered appropriate attire. Changing out of rather loose-fitting business wear, he pulled on the olive green of his military uniform, somehow finding comfort in the familiarity of the coarse fabric. This would no doubt be about his military actions, so wearing anything else almost did not seem right.

When he had finished changing, he strayed into another part of the building to get himself a glass of water. All he had been able to find was a small, wooden cup, but he would take it. He needed something to distract himself until his Hyung arrived. It was the one part of the plan he had failed to fully consider before…what he was going to say to Yao. No doubt he would disapprove fully, and very little chance he would agree with Sang Kyu’s reasons for his actions. Having something worthwhile to say to his biggest ally and older brother was important, and yet, when it came to talking with Hyung, his plans always seemed to come up short.

The North Korean wandered back to one of the rooms on the side of the building that faced the street, taking a seat in a chair by the window and staring out at the bleak landscape. He sipped from the cup every once in a while as he thought. He wondered what sort of logic would need to be employed to convince his Hyung that his actions had a legitimate reason. Knowing how Yao was going to view the whole thing, he almost didn’t even want to try to explain his reasoning, and yet, he knew if he didn’t, he would lose all credibility with his elder.

Soon enough, a car he did not recognize pulled onto the street and came to a stop outside the building. This was it. Quickly finishing the water in the cup, Sang Kyu pulled himself to his feet and returned to the front of the building, opened the door, and stepped out to wait for Yao on the walkway. His elder stepped from the car, and Kyu studied his face curiously, looking for clues as to just what Yao was thinking, his own face dead-set in a mild frown—an expression not unusual for him.

When Yao neared, he did not hesitate to get right to the point. ”Would you please explain to me,” he said, without even so much as a hello. ”What you were thinking?”

“Annyeonghaseyo, Hyung,” Sang Kyu responded simply, a bit of an edge sneaking into his voice due to his annoyance at his elder’s instant demand for an answer. He did not expect his tone to go over well with Yao, but then again, he was already in trouble, and Yao had much more serious things to worry about right now than the tone of voice his younger brother took with him.

“If you are questioning the extent to which I thought this through, I will assure you, I did in fact think, if that is what you are asking,” he continued, avoiding giving an explanation just yet. He paused, folding his hands behind his back and returning Yao’s gaze calmly as he tried again to stall. “Would you like to come inside, Hyung? The walkway is hardly an appropriate place to discuss such things.”


Notes:
((It's suspected, at least, that the whole Yeonpyeong attack was a bid to get Kim Jong Un some credibility with the military before he succeeds Kim Jong Il as ruler of North Korea.
www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,2032806,00.html

And the little snippet about the secret meeting...that was this:
anotherhetaliaboard.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=finthreads&action=display&thread=606
SK and I did that thread back in September or so. In short, they met up secretly on the DMZ and had a kind of bittersweet moment...and then Yeonpyeong happened. I hope it's okay that I included that. >>;)

[china]

Secrecy had always been something that China had passed onto his siblings with the utmost Importance. At least, when they had begun making deals with the western world. East Asia was no longer a place of refuge, no matter how Wang Yao wished it to be. If he had known about the Korean twins meeting with one another; he had dismissed the action and never spoken one word of it to either of them. He was as equally supportive of South Korea as he was the North Korea. Neither side demanded him what America constantly enjoyed hounding him over, talk to North Korea. Make him stop, make him obey. How many times had he warned the loose-headed economic partner of his that there was no obedience where there was no honor? His face remained in the apathetic stance, wearing the porcelain mask that did not budge one inch from his face. Yes, his mental strain was beginning to wane, no thanks to the Korean before him—but he could control and hold himself together. He was, after all, the eldest of his East Asian siblings; Sang Kyu might have dishonored him openly in front of the world, but nothing could obscure his self worth of what he had to be in this situation. A global, economic, and world power.

They were all playing the same game; America, North Korea, South Korea, and himself. It was only a matter of time until someone misfired, or something went out of hand. His own leader, Hu Jintao, had no chance to stop Wang Yao from reaching Sang Kyu before it was far too late. In a way, perhaps the other had known that stopping his ancient nation from stomping in on Sang Kyu’s horrendous timing of military perseverance would have been close to impossible. China, after all, had the most to lose; his economy would be in flames in the news for weeks to come. The UN would look to him, condemning his inability to hold his younger sibling in place—as he had promised to do so before hand. You swore an oath, he thought, while glancing into the familiar face before him. You displease me, even gazing upon you wounds my heart. His lips began to downturn, melting as the sharp greeting pierced his ears. “Annyeonghaseyo, Hyung,” It was informal, dry, and brittle; so offensive to grace his presence.

An eyebrow flinched, and the reaction was more then enough to get across Yao’s meaning. Sang Kyu was treading on a razor’s edge, and there was something within his elder that throbbed painfully. If the rumors were indeed true, he would have to turn his gaze from Sang Kyu; leaving the younger sibling behind was not an option. Did his leaders not see that abandoning North Korea would possibly worsen the situation, if not allow history to repeat itself? But perhaps, maybe, such thoughts were wistful thinking of his own creation. No matter how idiotic, or foolish the boy had been; Yao would be there for him, he would struggle for Sang Kyu. If his people turned their back, even if he had no other choice—reliving the Korean War would contort his spirit beyond recognition. His darkened eyes glanced away from his siblings for only a second, “If you are questioning the extent to which I thought this through, I will assure you, I did in fact think, if that is what you are asking,” his lips pressed themselves harder together. How hard it was to hold back; lashing out, especially when Sang Kyu did not understand what he had done, took a phenomenal amount of self-control.

“Would you like to come inside, Hyung? The walkway is hardly an appropriate place to discuss such things.” At least the child still had some sense in him. Nodding carefully, he kept his hands threaded inside of his sleeves. The grip on his wrists had decreased somewhat, although the angry red marks that would no doubt become bruises later, had already surfaced on his flesh. Swiftly removing them, he didn’t even bother to wait to see if Sang Kyu had managed to seal them both within. His hand instantly went for the back of the younger’s head. ”Aiyah, do not tell me you were thinking when you were not!” His voice constricted, his airway becoming limited when he felt initial rage boiling up from where it had been bound within. ”Just who have you become, Xiǎo háizi. The one I raised would have not allowed such a thing to happen. You gave your word, did you not? I have been supportive of you, have I not?” While he wasn’t completely certain that Sang Kyu agreed or not, his people had offered more then what was necessary to give an ally. He didn’t even support the USSR as compassionately when the communist power lifted China from its sad state of opium oppression. ”And yet you risk everything, for this?” Shifting his hands, the elder made a wide motion with his palms outstretched.

”Are you too good for your allies now, dìdì. Perhaps you would rather wish to leave me out of your play, if it is only a production of you and your brother’s selfishness to be displayed before the entire world.” Yao Wang had begun to pace, feet barely touching the ground as he went from one corner of the room to the other. He was—more then distressed now, and while he kept everything together; he struggled internally with his fears of what would become of this action. Losing was no option, he had done far too much of that in the years passed. Do not take anyone’s side, just lead him in the right direction. Yao’s hands moved to cradle his temples, feeling the agony take out its frustration directly behind his eyes. The dull thumping of blood circulating behind them deafened his ears, and his fingers fell after what felt like an eternity. ”Or maybe you are as westernized as your sibling now; turning your back on the promises that leave your mouth, no sooner then they dry on paper in the form of black ink.” His eyes glanced up, almost as if he was looking down upon Sang Kyu.

If Sang Kyu thought that North Korea was getting the ‘death glare’ of the entire United Nations; he did not have the capability to see the icy breath creeping down Yao’s neck , stemming from the exact same source. ” Báichī,” Yao snapped, teeth clenching together. ”I don’t know if you were thinking, or following orders—and right now, I do not care.” His voice slowly began to return to monotone with each passing word. His elder was exhausted, mentally and physically so. The trip had been long, and his conscience had been working in overdrive since the news of the attack reached his ears. Wang Yao only knew that he had to keep pushing, he had to bring Sang Kyu out of this—even if it was kicking and screaming. If he made one mistake, one slip, he could lose any one of his younger siblings. America, he had nothing to lose but an ally or enemy; Yao had family to think of, this was personal for him.

Why do you make this so difficult, Sang Kyu? Yao silently mused, feeling his eyes narrow. ”What is done is done, neither of us can change it. What I wish to hear now; is what you believe you’ve accomplished by it, and what you plan to do about it.” He could not hold North Korea’s hand, the young man was no longer his to protect or love platonically. Support would be difficult to bring from his government, but he did not wish to think of abandoning North Korea. Either path he chose had its own toll to pay, and the consequence list elongated the more the ancient nation mapped out his course of action. One had to learn to be flexible. To test, and approach with extreme sensitivity and caution; yes, he was condescending towards Sang Kyu—but it was only for the greater good. Perhaps one day, the Northern twin would understand that Yao’s voice and discipline was out of concern. There were certain things Yao had lived through that he never wanted to touch any one of his siblings, actions he had both seen and felt, but he could not protect Sang Kyu unless the younger allowed him to.

Yao stopped his constant pacing, shoulders loosening as they began to slump forward. Eyes closing for a split second, the elder looked at peace—even amidst all the chaos; internally and externally. ”I hope, for your sake, that you have an answer.”


((Lookit all that text--fffff.. Sorry about that, I suppose Yao!muse was ready to rant. ANYWAY Notes.
*Didi is "Little Brother"
*Xiǎo háizi, changed this last minute. Because I didn't like the formation of the word "small little brother" in English. Nowwww--it means "little child" in English. Probably more appropriate.
*Baichi is idiot. Nothing too offensive, just a regular 'idiot' or 'fool' depending on your preference.
The rest is kind of obvious, and no worries for including it! It'll help us move along nicely.))

[North Korea]

It was clear the moment the first words had left Sang Kyu’s mouth that he was already drifting into hostile territory. He’d known even before he’d taken such a tone with his Hyung that he would be, but that didn’t mean the twitch he’d seen from Yao didn’t unnerve him a bit. Yao was itching to say something. That much was obvious. And chances were, they were probably things Kyu didn’t exactly want to hear. Then again, he heard many things daily that he didn’t want to hear—that more leaflets denouncing the government had been found, that farmers in the northern provinces had lost half their crop to a freeze, that the UN was getting onto them again for one thing or another. And yet, hearing it from his elder brother would always leave a little pang in his heart where other things did not.

When Yao nodded his acceptance to the invitation to go inside, Sang Kyu nodded back simply, the single fly-away curl on his head bobbing. He motioned his elder inside before following swiftly. He’d barely gotten the door shut when something smacked him in the back of the head. “Nn!” he grunted softly in surprise, whirling around to face Yao, a mix of bewilderment and irritation written on his face.

”Aiyah, do not tell me you were thinking when you were not!” came the sharp reply to his earlier statement. ”Just who have you become, Xiǎo háizi. The one I raised would have not allowed such a thing to happen. You gave your word, did you not?” Twitching faintly, Sang Kyu looked his elder in the eye as he spoke. The last thing he was going to do now was look like he was ashamed of something when he most certainly was not. As far as he was concerned, giving your word meant nothing nowadays. Giving word was something abstract and intangible. He didn’t consider anyone else’s word worth believing, and he had a pretty good feeling no one took his seriously either. “I have been supportive of you, have I not?” He stared at Yao with dark eyes, staying silent as his elder made wide, dramatic motions with his hands. ”And yet you risk everything, for this?”

The Korean opened his mouth to speak, but was cut off as Yao continued on. ”Are you too good for your allies now, dìdì. Perhaps you would rather wish to leave me out of your play, if it is only a production of you and your brother’s selfishness to be displayed before the entire world.”

At the emphasized word, he folded his arms across his chest, eyes narrowing dangerously as he continued to stare down Yao. He watched in silence as the other began to pace the room, his eyes following his movements, but the rest of him remaining militaristically still. He wasn’t going to interrupt now. Now that Yao had gotten started, it was probably best to wait until he was finished and then explain himself. For now he devoted himself to listening to Yao’s words, no matter how he disagreed with them, so that he may better understand his elder’s view on the situation. It was becoming increasingly obvious how delicate a situation this was going to be. If he said the wrong thing, Yao was going to be less willing to help him in the future, and yet, there really was no ‘right’ answer.

”Or maybe you are as westernized as your sibling now,” Yao continued, “Turning your back on the promises that leave your mouth, no sooner then they dry on paper in the form of black ink. Suddenly, Kyu’s frown turned into a stark grimace. Somehow, being accused of becoming westernized angered him more than anything. To him, that was more offending that any amount of Southern propaganda or ‘crazy commie’ accusations. He did not wish to be associated with the Western world. He did not wish to be associated with those who had corrupted his brother and taken him from him. He did not wish to be associated with those who had spread the ridiculous idea that communism was the scourge of mankind. He wanted to crush the Western world. Being accused of becoming a part of it was an insult. He met Yao’s gaze with an ice-cold look, standing just as rock-still as he’d been a moment ago.

” Báichī,” Yao snapped suddenly. ”I don’t know if you were thinking, or following orders—and right now, I do not care.” He slowly seemed to be calming down, Sang Kyu noted. He did not know if this would make explaining himself any easier or not—he had a feeling Yao would go back to being just as infuriated has he had been a moment ago as soon as he started talking, though maybe he would be more willing to listen initially if he was calm. The Korean needed to play his cards right.

”What is done is done, neither of us can change it. What I wish to hear now; is what you believe you’ve accomplished by it, and what you plan to do about it.” Yao had stopped pacing now, seeming to relax a little more. ”I hope, for your sake, that you have an answer.”

Sang Kyu stayed silent for a moment, mulling over his words carefully. Should he mention the succession? Probably not. That would anger Yao for sure, and people in his country probably already suspected it being a reason for the bombardment anyway.

“Do not attempt to group me in with the Westerners,” he began simply, speaking slowly, though his voice had taken on a noticeable edge, “When they are the one’s responsible for separating me from Yong Soo in the first place.” He felt one fist clench against his body as his other hand hooked into the sleeve of his crossed arm. As far as he was concerned, they would not be having this conversation if not for westerners. If it had not been for the stupid American and a former Russian comrade, he and his brother probably would have remained a happy Korean Empire once freed from Japanese rule. But thanks to the Western ideals that had poisoned his brother’s mind when they were separated, things would probably never be that way again.

“Why should I keep my word when word has such miniscule value compared to the money Capitalists thrive upon? Why should I give them the assurance that I will play their ridiculous game when in reality they care nothing for Korea other than how it affects their trade or stocks or whatever ludicrous ideals they believe in?” He uncrossed his arms and let them ball into fists at his sides, his dark eyes fixed on his elder brother. There was a faint throbbing in his temple by now, but he resisted the urge to bring a hand to it in an attempt to suppress the feeling.

“When they don’t care except for what Korea can offer them, why should I give them my word?" He raised an eyebrow briefly, eyeing Yao as if he expected him to try and answer that question. He figured he probably would, but already, he did not expect to agree. "My word is worth nothing as long as they are interested in things that offer them money. The only reason they want my word is because it gives them some sort of assurance that they will get money out of the deal. They want my word that they will have no trouble taking over my land for their own Capitalist ideals." He paused for a moment, his face relaxing slightly but his voice taking on an even harder edge. "That is what they want.”

The Korean continued to stare at his Hyung through dark eyes, his arms re-crossing themselves before he broke eye contact and began to pace slowly around the room as Yao had done only a few moments before. How was he supposed to explain Yeonpyeong in a way Yao would understand? Surely Yao saw it as nothing more than an act of aggression. While Kyu would admit that it had been partially out of anger and frustration, he was convinced that his reasons for doing so were legitimate, if not complicated for anyone outside his own mind to understand.

He sighed heavily, pausing a moment to glance out the window at the gray street and landscape before turning back to look at Yao. “I attacked the stupid island because not only does he and his government claim what is mine as his, but he ignores my words whether they are territorial or political or economical.” Sang Kyu’s eyes narrowed another degree, his brows drawing together slightly more as he resumed pacing. “Because not only does he ignore my warnings, but also because he ignores calls for talks. Oh, he’s ready to resume Six Party Talks, he says! Oh, most definitely!” At which point, a faint smile crossed his face, though more of a jeering smile than anything. “So is this why he dismisses every offer I make for them as insincere? Clearly words do nothing to get through his hard head. As long as I sit here preaching words at his rock of a brain, I will continue to be ignored.”

His words were probably making no sense. He was losing confidence in his ability to convince his Hyung of anything, but he had demanded an answer, and now he was getting it, no matter how much he disagreed or otherwise failed to understand it in the same way Kyu did.

“So, as dear Brother ignores me no matter what I say to him, he got a surprise one morning. If he’s going to ignore me, he’s going to ignore the reason Six Party Talks were started." Sang Kyu grimaced all the harder, briefly recalling images of things he wished he could push away forever--awful memories of blood and war and betrayal. It wouldn't exactly be odd to consider that perhaps Yong Soo would like to forget those things, but Sang Kyu was convinced that ignoring the past was ignoring the problem. "He needed a reminder, and I was more than happy to give him one.”


((Nahh, it's all good! It gave me a lot to work with and...I kind of returned the text wall, haha.

Lookit NK, making what he did sound even worse, mmyep.))

[china]

There was a sigh lingering in the back of his throat, his eyes calmly having closed as a moment of tranquility came over him. Cracks had begun to appear, and while he promised himself not to get too interwoven on the issue at hand—he had to take into consideration that Sang Kyu needed him. Both as an elder brother, and a stronger nation. He didn’t approve what the younger had done, but he would give his sibling the means to express himself. It truly was unfair. Those that were locked within the east were gazed upon with uncertainty. Guilt racked his mind; even China was not immune to the constant untrusting looks from the west. Because they were different, because they thought differently—he did not ponder too long. Yao could relate to what the other Asian was attempting to tell him, and he suddenly regretted calling North Korea out for acting ‘like a Westerner.’

“Do not attempt to group me in with the Westerners,” Yao cringed internally with the sound of disgust in that voice. “When they are the one’s responsible for separating me from Yong Soo in the first place.” His lips again firmed, it was not true. Every nation took their choices, granted at the time he wondered if it had been Im Yong Soo’s personal choice to walk away on his brother’s behalf; now he understood that South Korea turned its back in favor of western ideals. He couldn’t blame him, neither South Korea or Japan. As much as he wanted to blame the West, oh how much easier it would be on his personal conscious. It would hurt less. Knowing that it had not been his fault that his brothers chose to walk away from him, he would favor the theory that they were led away with false promises of power. But it is not the truth. This is the decision they made, despite the hurt it causes both of us, Sang Kyu. The anger Sang Kyu still held for those that were not of East Asian blood stung him, the younger had not seen first hand what the future held in store for him if such ideas persisted. When he was young, it was so simple to shut the world away. Now—now there was no hope in being alone, or returning to the household they once were.

“Why should I keep my word when word has such miniscule value compared to the money Capitalists thrive upon? Why should I give them the assurance that I will play their ridiculous game when in reality they care nothing for Korea other than how it affects their trade or stocks or whatever ludicrous ideals they believe in?” Yao didn’t know how to respond, mentioning that economics was the way of the world now wouldn’t help calming Sang Kyu down. “When they don’t care except for what Korea can offer them, why should I give them my word?" Feeling minor frustration mixing with the sullen depths, his eyebrow flinched once more. Parting his lips finally to allow another small sigh escape. Sang Kyu—what has become of you? If you continue, you will only remind yourself more of the man that kept you unfairly so many years ago. Kiku, no matter how Yao ran from the memory; Japan was one scar that was present to this very day. His quiet, intelligent, if not mildly—rude little brother; how could he not look at Sang Kyu and see the same bitterness present, festering inside, waiting to be released. Is there so much hate inside of you too?

"My word is worth nothing as long as they are interested in things that offer them money. The only reason they want my word is because it gives them some sort of assurance that they will get money out of the deal. They want my word that they will have no trouble taking over my land for their own Capitalist ideals." Yao could argue that this wasn’t true—after all, what had China done in retrospect? He had become one of the United States’ vast trading partners, as well as his economic scapegoat. It was insufficient to blame Capitalism, when both Sang Kyu and himself had managed thus far without it. Instead, Yao simply shook his head. "That is what they want.” His lips opened, dark eyes following Sang Kyu’s now—but stopped as soon as the younger now began his pattern of pacing. It seemed ironic, how the both of them could swap constant motions as if they were sharing the same thought process. His Xiǎo jiāhuo had much to say, far too much to explain; Yao threaded his hands back into his sleeves.

“I attacked the stupid island because not only does he and his government claim what is mine as his, but he ignores my words whether they are territorial or political or economical.” A low sound came from Yao at this, a mixture of both a sigh and growl. Both of them were so stubborn, and yet both ignored eachother. They said one thing to their allies, meant a completely other thing towards one another. Yao had begun to understand America’s building frustration, although he preferred to stay out of it as much as possible. Sang Kyu and Yong Soo were old enough to create their own paths in life, and yet—the cycle they followed to this very day was more destructive then helpful. . “Because not only does he ignore my warnings, but also because he ignores calls for talks. Oh, he’s ready to resume Six Party Talks, he says! Oh, most definitely!” What were talks, except their obvious inability to listen to one another? Oh, he had tried again and again to get the two to speak, but whenever it was attempted—Yao felt neither held an ability to listen. Insolence, arrogance, he didn’t know which guided which twin; only that nothing was formulated from such intertwining traits.

“So is this why he dismisses every offer I make for them as insincere? Clearly words do nothing to get through his hard head. As long as I sit here preaching words at his rock of a brain, I will continue to be ignored.” Yao didn’t consider this preaching, even though that was the word Sang Kyu chose to use in the situation. What am I going to do with both of you, honestly. He was certain that he did not raise the twins to be this way, perhaps blaming Japan for this endless anger between one another would have been the wiser route. Flashes of the war that separated him from the two Koreas burned into his mind, reminding of him the days that silence meant bliss. When Sang Kyu used to be content, with his sibling—with him as well. Even then, the Qing Dynasty had been more then generous enough to allow Yao’s favor to be with them constantly. Those days were far away now, as the last comment his brother made twisted the knife from within. “So, as dear Brother ignores me no matter what I say to him, he got a surprise one morning. If he’s going to ignore me, he’s going to ignore the reason Six Party Talks were started." Yao’s eyes closed once more, listening to the steps Sang Kyu took around the room. Circles, pauses, even the breaths that he could strain his ears to catch. "He needed a reminder, and I was more than happy to give him one.”

Yao brought his hands closer to his chest, he disapproved—that was obvious enough. Yet his frustrations as Sang Kyu’s guardian began to die as the other nation quieted. He too had felt injustice, and he doubted that Yong Soo’s ignorance had been helpful in keeping Sang Kyu mentally stable. ”Sang Kyu,” Yao began gently, having stood perfectly still during the entire rant; he took his first steps close to where the Korean was. One hand sliding from his inner sleeve, the elder attempted to lightly place his hand where he had hit him moments earlier. ”You are right, Hánguó. You are not Western, you are East Asia.” He confirmed, hand slipping over the longer dark locks before receding from such comfort. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d held either Korea, only that he had missed it in simpler times.

”No matter what paths we choose, Sang Kyu, we are all a part of East Asia. You and I, your brother as well. It shouldn’t have come to this. I don’t believe that this was your only option, but nothing we can do can fix what you have done.” The Chinese elder crossed his arms, and allowed his head to tilt towards the window as well. Finding comfort in the Korean country, even if the Northern brother had such aggravation over it; finding it means as to persist battles with the Southern Korean. ”Yong Soo is not blameless either, I understand this, but neither of you are flawless. Neither of you can admit it, and thus this cycle continues. The world gazes upon both of you with such distain, not because of what you are—but of what you’ve come to represent.” He doubted that this would make much sense to Sang Kyu, being as he did not see how Yao’s affliction with Communism literally flew under the radar in favor of North Korea’s constant unscrupulous behavior.

”Perhaps you do not agree,” Yao whispered, his voice beginning to take a far softer note. He couldn’t force Sang Kyu, his leader had been nothing short of relentless about how he was 'forbidden' to take sides. But Yong Soo didn’t need him anymore, the Southern Korean had taken refuge with another; Sang Kyu might not agree, but the Chinese man did believe he might listen to reason when approached properly. ”You are not alone, zuì qīnài de xiōngdì.” His voice took on a tone of reasoning, comfort felt useless here; yet he wondered if his sibling could be pacified from such words. ”What you choose to do affects us all, and you have shown carelessness upon doing this action. You do not understand. You say you do, Sang Kyu, but I know you do not. You are still young, still reckless—you believe this force will give you the audience you seek. Yet all it does in the end is make their ears shut off more, what are you giving them besides a reason to distrust Asia?”

Yao stayed near the younger’s side, his dark eyes lingering in the other’s even though he had let his bubbling frustration seep away. He would be reasonable, if not also mildly stern about what he thought Sang Kyu should do as his next logical step. Even if he didn’t want to do it. Even if Yao had to step in to take his sibling’s side—as wrong, or disappointed as he was; China would do what was expected. ”I believe we are far overdue for one of these talks, then.” He stated, wondering just how Sang Kyu would react when actually given his chance to talk to his sibling. He wondered himself if America would step in, having all four parties there might have been more disastrous then just the effected two. Yet he was not certain that he trusted both enough to not make matters worse between them, so allowing Sang Kyu to run in blindly was also not an option. ”Are you even ready to talk to him?” The tone of his voice sounded more personal, hinting more towards Sang Kyu’s mentality then the actual action of talking strategy over with the southern neighbor.

[/font]

((Notes~ Also, lol Yao--why you so calm suddenly? BT
*Xiǎo jiāhuo = His brother (my brother)
*Hánguó = Korea (either north or south, Yao is using this to make a point, actually.)
*zuì qīnài de xiōngdì = My dear little brother

-- Also cameo appearances/mention of the First Sino-Japanese war, which happened in 1894. Caused China to lose its hold over the Korean penn.))

[North Korea]

”Sang Kyu,” came Yao’s gentle voice. Sang Kyu glanced up, tensing somewhat when he felt his Hyung’s hand on the back of his head, but eventually relaxing to the gentle motion, his expression seeming to lighten slightly. His gaze returned to the floor. ”You are right, Hánguó. You are not Western, you are East Asia.”

The comfort receded with Yao’s hand, and Sang Kyu had to resist giving a small sigh, the noise nearly escaping his lips before he realized he’d even had the urge at all. He quickly suppressed it, looking over at his elder expectantly.

”No matter what paths we choose, Sang Kyu, we are all a part of East Asia. You and I, your brother as well. It shouldn’t have come to this. I don’t believe that this was your only option, but nothing we can do can fix what you have done.” The Korean’s lips pressed into a thin line as he frowned harder. He felt that what he had done had been his only option. Everything else he tried was ignored, or more ridiculous things were demanded of him. How could he hope to ever reach any sort of agreement with his brother when demands he saw as favorable for the South but dangerous for him were made in order to even begin discussions?

”Yong Soo is not blameless either, I understand this, but neither of you are flawless. Neither of you can admit it, and thus this cycle continues. The world gazes upon both of you with such distain, not because of what you are—but of what you’ve come to represent.” Kyu did not see how ‘what they represented’ had to do with it. As far as he was concerned, it was all because of who they were. His brother was adored by nations such as America simply because he was democratic. Sang Kyu on the other hand, felt he was hated world-wide simply because he was a communist. And with no money or influential power like China had, he was hopeless to carve out a place in the world. A crease appeared at the edge of his mouth as he frowned harder.

”Perhaps you do not agree,” he heard Yao say softly. ”You are not alone, zuì qīnài de xiōngdì.” The frown intensified further. He couldn’t help but wonder if those words held any truth or not. How with him was Yao really? He could tell Yao was trying to be a mediator, but as far as Kyu was concerned, as soon as Yao’s government lost use for North Korea, he would be alone, and not even Yao would be able to help him. As much as he hated to think about it, he had to wonder if perhaps his Hyung’s opinions even fell in line with his superiors’ from time to time… Maybe even Yao wasn’t as there for him as he thought.

”What you choose to do affects us all, and you have shown carelessness upon doing this action. You do not understand. You say you do, Sang Kyu, but I know you do not. You are still young, still reckless—you believe this force will give you the audience you seek. Yet all it does in the end is make their ears shut off more, what are you giving them besides a reason to distrust Asia?” Sang Kyu disagreed… The ears of his brother and the West had been shut off for a long time. Maybe this one attack would make them listen, if only for a short time. It was better than nothing…

He let out a heavy breath, listening as Yao went on. ”I believe we are far overdue for one of these talks, then. Are you even ready to talk to him?” With that, he flinched faintly, the question catching him off guard. Blinking a few times, he stared at Yao as if it was some kind of trick, like the question had such an obvious answer that the obvious couldn’t be right. But the tone of his Hyung’s voice told him that he wasn’t asking if he was ready to talk to South Korea, he was asking if he was ready to talk to Yong Soo.

His arms crossed themselves over his chest as he took a moment run through that scenario in his head. He did not want to see his brother. Ever. It was the same question he’d asked himself months ago when mulling over the possibility of meeting with his brother in secret, just he two of them. At that time, he’d said yes because he’d thought something might get done, which it hadn’t. Then again, nothing got done when they did nothing either.

He looked Yao squarely in the eyes. “Well, things don’t get better as long as I don’t talk to him,” he seemed to decide, though his voice didn’t do much to make him sound convincing. His head tilted to one side as he seemed to consider what he was saying further. “So why not?"

This time, he really did sigh, almost reluctantly, his brows coming together for a moment as he looked off at some other obsure area on the floor. "I do not care what the West thinks or how they see us. They can disagree with my actions all they want. as they always do. This is between my brother and I.”


((Ew, this feels short. ;_; *kicks muse* Woooork.
I referenced the meeting thread again, but not much to say except for that.))

[china]

H

[/color]is government had warned him, before leaving, that North Korea was dangerous to deal with. Looking at the figure in front of him, Yao couldn’t help but disagree. Im Sang Kyu looked lost, comforted by the simple touch of his hand. It wasn’t often that the Chinese took displays of affection out in the open. True, they were alone now, but Yao could still be stingy when he wished to be. His hand and arms yearned to wrap around the younger Asian; bring him in closer to his chest where he could be coddled into tranquility. It was by his own fault that he couldn’t see Korean’s menace with the world, he had the tools in which to cause great destruction—but to Yao he was still his child. As a nation, he could only see Sang Kyu as an ally, but as the being that had aided in raising him from his small stature; how could he dismiss the memories so close to his heart? Impossible, he couldn’t be so cold hearted—red or not. Communist or democratic, there was but one thing that he could not hide behind his aged husk; sadly it seemed Sang Kyu would never know.

Perhaps it was all a fantasy he was unfolding, one in which he could see Sang Kyu and Yong Soo work together for the better of their nation. Yet both seemed adept in believing that separate, they could do more. Contrary to popular belief, Yao didn’t dislike Westerners; he simply didn’t see the world in the same frame that they did. But if living over four thousand years had taught him something, it was that no one ever had fully succeeded in blending the world together. He was East Asia, and there were Nordics, Europeans, and Americans—so many groups, too many to love; too many to hate. The effort Sang Kyu took in showing his rage for the democratic world astounded him, perhaps if America hadn’t been so dependent on his economic production, he would feel the same way. After all, they were both communist powers. If he turned democratic (perish the thought) he didn’t doubt that his own government would have tried to push North Korea into following in their footsteps. It wasn’t by his influence that the younger nation was communist, but it was in his best interest to keep China happy.

Yao expected the flinch, the mention of Yong Soo was also a soft spot for him. His hand reached out, again pressing into the back of Sang Kyu’s head, shifting downwards to cradle the crease of his neck. “Well, things don’t get better as long as I don’t talk to him,” sighing openly, he closed his eyes. Diverting his own dark orbs from the intense gaze of the younger Korean. “So why not?" Rolling his eyes, the swift hand rested on Sang Kyu’s back; contentedly keeping the other Asian close to him. ”Well,” he started cautiously, voice dropping in tone. ”I suppose that is one way of looking at it.” Muttering under his breath, as if afraid someone else would hear him if he spoke too loud. A ghost of a smile came on his lips, laughing weakly as his head cocked to the side. Glancing over at Sang Kyu, his own eyes now meeting the sharp gaze of his younger ‘sibling’ in an almost empathic manner.

”You might not agree with me, but even as China—we are together for now. As your gege, I am with you forever. Even Japan, even Im Yong Soo, there is nothing that can keep us apart. For the longest time, it was simply us. You, our siblings, and me.” Frowning thoughtfully, he removed his hand from Sang Kyu. Picking up the small wooden cup he had been using for drinking water. "I do not care what the West thinks or how they see us. They can disagree with my actions all they want. as they always do. This is between my brother and I.” Cradling the small cylinder in his hand, he shook his head as his darker eyes diverting down in exhaustion. Obviously, Sang Kyu would be harder to convince then he originally thought. So, the young man was still a child; it was no surprise there, if he looked hard enough—Sang Kyu was still small and clinging to his long imperial sleeve made of crimson silk, imprinted with lotus embroidery. So small, was he ever really that small? Aiyah, I am getting far too old. Thinking over such things, when he is right here.

Beginning towards the kitchen, his long sleeves hid his hands as the elder hummed and set down the small cup. ”If we were as isolated as we once were, Sang Kyu, I would agree with you. This is larger then you or your brother. Yong Soo has made that clear with his close alliance to America.” Easing the information in, he couldn’t help but feel the tinge of bitterness for the action; hiding it well under his apathetic mask. Getting the younger another glass of water, he set down the wooden cup before the younger Asian. Urging him with a simple hand motion that he should sit down for their talk. Getting Sang Kyu to listen was difficult on some subjects, but the Korean seemed more then adept on doing so when the situation arose. ”This is between Yong Soo, you, and the rest of the world. Even I won’t be spared, didi, of this conflict. I know what you thought you did was the best option, but it has not helped your best interest. True, you are getting the attention you desired—no one said it was good attention.”

”You should care how they see us,” Yao quickly retorted—moving to take his place at Sang Kyu’s side for the moment. ”You care how I see you, don’t you? It’s an image we must polish, if we do not—our place will be given away to yet another Western Empire. Do you truly believe they would treat East Asia equally then?” He couldn’t bring up Japan, despite how he wanted to. He felt at times that the other two nations were puppets to America. Something that the Americans found amusing, if not also exotic. While he had mixed reviews, most likely because of his influence over America’s economy; everything he had picked up the last time he had been to the United States filled him with pride. China’s name was printed there, on most of his precious little things, where as others took a minority. They weren’t gone, but China towered over them, and he wouldn’t have accomplished that without America’s influence and his own perseverance.

Not once had he threatened to nuke the country’s hand that fed him, but North Korea did not have that expense. He did not see the anger that kept from representing the communist party positively. It was one of the main reasons that drove Ivan and himself apart when the USSR had been standing. Although, he knew there were many other factors that drove them away from one another, he couldn’t help but think back to when they had not been alone. Supporting North Korea was not only in his best interest, but Yao couldn’t help feeling responsible for the actions as well as proper parenting he failed to do. Sang Kyu wouldn’t have been so unhappy if he had done his job correctly, and his heart indeed throbbed within his chest. Pained, stained with guilt, hoping that one-day his sibling would understand what it meant to him. ”Why don’t you enlighten me how this works in your world then, Sang Kyu?”

[/blockquote][/font]

((OoC/Notes:Lololol. God I suck. :'D Sorry this one came a little late. It feels so blah as well ;A; -goes into fail corner-
Gege - Older Brother
Didi - Younger Brother
Sino-Soviet Split References, for the lulz. 1961, be prepared to see that date in my future, daayummm. /might be slightly drunk from drinking in the passenger seat for three hours while writing this.))

[North Korea]

Grudgingly, Sang Kyu was beginning to realize that the longer he was with Yao, the more like a child he felt. His elder’s fingers again found the back of his head, cradling it as he had used to do when he was young. For a moment, the Korean found himself remembering times when things like this had been regular—when there had been nothing wrong with showing their affection for one another, when they’d been young and Yao had been their older brother and that had been his job. Yao’s hand moved to his back, and it occurred to him that his Hyung must be feeling that way as well—missing those days—or he would not be doing this at all.

Sang Kyu fidgeted a bit uncomfortably under his touch. He shouldn’t be allowing him to do this. He was grown up. He was an adult now. He didn’t need his older brother to come and cradle him every time he had a problem, no matter how much the childish part of him wanted him to. Imagine if his Dear Leader found out about this? He’d be in deep trouble then. Showing such weakness…

”Well,” Yao began again, his voice softer than before. His hand was still on the Korean’s back. ”I suppose that is one way of looking at it.” His elder laughed softly, and Sang Kyu held eye contact for just a moment before averting his gaze from Yao’s. He stared off at a far wall, drumming his fingers against the bicep of his crossed arm as he waited for this show of affection to be over. He had to do things for himself now.

”You might not agree with me, but even as China—we are together for now. As your gege, I am with you forever.” He was only slightly reassured by those words. As much as he wanted to think that as a country, China would be with him forever, he knew that wasn’t true. They were only together for now. As soon as nations lost use for each other, it was over. But he didn’t believe they would necessarily be together forever as brothers either. Yao could say it all he wanted, but Sang Kyu was wary of believing in things people said to him, whether they were your average person on the street or even his Hyung. It was so easy to lie…

“Even Japan, even Im Yong Soo, there is nothing that can keep us apart. For the longest time, it was simply us. You, our siblings, and me.” It was just that that made him believe he couldn’t even trust his Hyung’s words all the time. There is nothing that can keep us apart. But what did he see what he looked out the southern window of a tall building in Kaesong? He saw something keeping him and his twin apart. It was called the DMZ. Who was to say that one day there wouldn’t be something similar between North Korea and China? When would his Hyung’s mindset finally fall in line with those who wanted to see North Korea’s end?

Yao finally removed his hand from Sang Kyu’s back, picking up the small wooden cup the Korean had left on the coffee table instead. He watched as his elder looked it over, taking a small step back to leave a polite distance between them. He didn’t want to be in an ‘affectionate’ range again, but didn’t want to seem rude by leaving too much space between them either. He was his elder, after all. He saw Yao shake his head faintly and wondered what he could possibly be thinking, but made no move to ask if he was alright or not.

Following Yao has he began toward the kitchen, he uncrossed his arms, once again folding his hands calmly behind his back instead. ”If we were as isolated as we once were, Sang Kyu, I would agree with you. This is larger then you or your brother. Yong Soo has made that clear with his close alliance to America.” He twitched faintly at the mention of the damned American. “Yes…yes he has, unfortunately…” Yao was refilling the wooden cup now, and soon enough he had set it down on the table and was motioning for the younger to sit down. Sang Kyu felt that this was Yao’s way of somehow trying to be his caretaker once again. He could have just as easily refilled it himself, but he didn’t object, instead taking a seat and staring at the water as it rippled in the cup, not taking a drink just yet.

”This is between Yong Soo, you, and the rest of the world. Even I won’t be spared, didi, of this conflict. I know what you thought you did was the best option, but it has not helped your best interest. True, you are getting the attention you desired—no one said it was good attention.” His dark eyes examined the ripples in the water until they stopped, his hand reaching out again to shake the cup just slightly and restart them. “It’s not good attention, I am aware…not yet.” He was convinced he could turn the situation around. Things would be right in the end.

”You should care how they see us,” Yao seemed to say quickly, moving closer to him. Kyu shifted a bit uncomfortably, finally bringing the cup to his lips and taking a small sip. ”You care how I see you, don’t you? It’s an image we must polish, if we do not—our place will be given away to yet another Western Empire. Do you truly believe they would treat East Asia equally then?” Taking another quick sip, he set the cup down and once again stared at the ripples, not meeting his Hyung’s eyes. He did care how Yao saw him. It was obvious enough, the way he tried to adopt some of his own ways while still maintaining his own. He was trying to impress Yao, though most time it did not work as well as he’d planned, if the current situation was any indication. "No, they would not…” he admitted, glaring now at the water. He could see his reflection when the water stilled, but because of the lighting, he could not see his face in the reflection. Instead what he saw was a dark shadow of himself. He gently flicked the side of the cup to make it ripple again.

”Why don’t you enlighten me how this works in your world then, Sang Kyu?” The Korean glanced up now, meeting Yao’s eyes with his slightly darkened gaze.

“Now, we wait,” he said simply, finally just drinking the rest of the water in the cup and shifting to stand up again. He took the cup to the counter, set it down, and proceeded to lean against the counter with his elbow, eyeing Yao from a distance. He stared at him for a moment, before pushing away from the counter and pacing over to open the door to one of the lower cabinets. He began searching through it, talking to his Hyung even with his back turned.

“They will spend some time deciding on their course of action…” he continued, ‘they’ meaning the South Koreans, and perhaps the Americans. “But eventually, they will decide that doing nothing is not an option.” He turned to glance at his Hyung again, as if to make sure he was following, before digging though the cabinet again. “But they will ultimately decide that we need to talk. You know how it is, yes? The New Year is soon, and they always try to start the year with a positive impression. And to try to start the year on a positive note, they make a point to say they will try to make peace with their enemies.”

He finally found what he was looking for and stood up, holding an old tea kettle in his hand. “So, after a ‘crisis,’ of sorts, they are sure to actually follow through, instead of saying so but not doing as they have had a nasty habit of doing in the past…”

He examined the tea pot for a moment before looking back to Yao, smirking faintly. “Would you like some tea, Hyung?”


((Kaesong is a major North Korean city that's really close to the border, but other than that, not much to say here.))

[china]

He didn’t mean to raise a family of bickering fools, truly he didn’t. If there was anything Sang Kyu should have taken from his childhood it was that Yao would always be with him. No matter what China forced him to do, the heart that felt the least bit human would struggle to be comforting towards his younger sibling. No matter how Sang Kyu struggled to admit that he was an adult, he was but a child to the elder nation. There were thousands of years between them; many in which Yao had been alone in isolation, yearning for the family he had been given only to have such preciousness taken away. There were many soft spots between himself, and his younger. No matter how furious Yao could get, there was little in which China could do to control the fluster rising around the two twin nations. The support he gave North Korea kept America’s influence off his front doorstep. Not that he needed any more reason to hand over his family to the Western ideals of expansion. The very thought of it burned, and his hand flinched with the constant desire plaguing him. Touch, comfort, small actions that would show Sang Kyu that he was here.

His mind occasionally went back, reversing and rewinding to remind him how small Sang Kyu had been. Along with Yong Soo, he had once fit in his arms. Perhaps one on each? Those had been simpler times, happier ones too. He was more then certain that the siblings adored one another, at least when Yao was absent they had each other to keep themselves entertained. As an ancient empire, China had struggled with usurps of power and dividing civil wars. He’d been broken up into more then nine dynasties before, and in utter truth he doubted that his mental state ever recovered from such turmoil. One couldn’t stand behind walls forever, and that lesson had been hardest on him to learn. When the loss came, Yao had not expected himself to take the hits in succession; struggling with his internal self as well as that of his shattering country. There were many moments of his life, flashes that could remind him how lucky he was to see Sang Kyu even close to maturity. How fast defeat could tear everything away, how younger empires that were but a fraction of his own life vanished seemingly overnight. If only you understood how fragile we can be too, didi. Would you still risk such things, simply to be heard?

[/i]

Faulting slightly at the sudden acceptance in Sang Kyu’s voice, Yao frowned thoughtfully. He saw America too as the force that was changing Im Yong Soo; keeping him away from his brother, more then likely. It didn’t surprise him, but there were more then physical borders that kept Asia separate and together. South Korea was not yet Western, but was becoming Westernized. The difference within those two statements was something that he knew North Korea didn’t understand. It might have been nothing but hopelessness taking form in Yao’s mind, but he did believe if such thoughts were taken from him—he might go utterly insane. He had to keep believing that Eastern Asia would remain. If something else so pessimistic took root, as that within Sang Kyu’s mind, he doubted that he could keep threading this growing empire of his own. He’d seen more then the bottom, but there was no reason to plague his little brother with horror stories from the cycles China had gone through. He did believe that experiences in life would show his little brother the way, and yet now he wasn’t so sure. These issues were strained, and the chokehold that Sang Kyu placed them in now was not aiding their dilemma.

“It’s not good attention, I am aware…not yet.” Yao couldn’t fathom that Sang Kyu actually thought that any good would come out of this. There was little they could do as it was, despite offering a sort of band-aid in the form of proper meetings with America and himself present for each side of the conflict. This action would go down in history as Sang Kyu’s untimely outcry for attention, which turned on the offensive—and then condemned them to the side of morally wrong. It was comforting, however, that the younger admitted into seeing that the attention that arose from their uprising of the assault was not favorable in the least bit of light. Anyone from any nation that had the pleasure of information regarding world news would know that; Sang Kyu was the villain. He was wrong and unjust; no matter what he had done in the past it was the present that would taint them both. His words seemed to reach the other, because now it became obvious that Sang Kyu was refusing to meet his gaze. He felt again like he was in control. Even if his younger sibling disagreed, the points he made hopefully drove his own view of what had to be done home. Sang Kyu would not like the outcome, that much he was sure; but what was started had to be put to rest too. "No, they would not…” Nodding, Yao swiftly placed his hands back into his sleeves. Eyelids closing, once more taking in the tranquil state of their meeting. Amidst chaos, they could still sit like this—a luxury, when Yao considered the other usurps he’d struggled through.

“Now, we wait,” a waiting game—of course. What else could they do? Sang Kyu had boxed his choices in, constricted everything so much so that the only path they could take was that which provided itself to their cause. Perhaps he could work around this with America, cautious steps with his economic partner was his specialty. The two might not have been allies, but he assumed that America felt the same dependency towards him that he felt for him. Yao’s eyes rose, opening as they followed the movements of his sibling. Keeping his gaze on him, taking note of every move; knowing that it could be quite telling when it came to the mental state of his younger’s demeanor. Contrary to popular belief, Yao couldn’t read minds. He only knew as much as what was spoken, how it was spoken, and how others reacted to his words as well as actions. The body could speak as clearly as any voice, and among moments of perilous stress; it was easier to read the ‘atmosphere’ through what one decided to do. ”If we wait, then how long do we wait? For as long as it takes—I suppose.” Mocking the younger, there was little bitterness in his voice. He was displeased, but Sang Kyu was young. He was a child, he didn’t understand—yet.

“They will spend some time deciding on their course of action…” Frowning further, the Asian held back his overwhelming desire to press his fingers into his temples. Pounding, his head felt as if it would explode if Sang Kyu continued on this thin line of predictions. “But eventually, they will decide that doing nothing is not an option.” He was furious now. Again. Because he understood perfectly what game Sang Kyu was playing with him. Everything that he had said was still true, he still supported and adored his sibling; but Sang Kyu was selfish. Childish, horribly mistaken if he thought there would be no scolding to accompany this. ”And what if their decision inclines full scale war? It will not, thanks to the links you both have, but if it were under different circumstances there would be nothing protecting you. Do you even understand what you ask for, Sang Kyu? If there was such an upheaval, everything that I’ve worked for will either self destruct—or completely become intangible.” He sat up straight, back and spine proudly sturdy as he walked to the opposite side of the room that Sang Kyu was in. The action itself spoke louder then his calm, but bitter voice; he was angered, dismayed with Sang Kyu. The answer he had gotten was not that which pleased him. Then again, he doubted much could please him in this situation.

“But they will ultimately decide that we need to talk. You know how it is, yes? The New Year is soon, and they always try to start the year with a positive impression. And to try to start the year on a positive note, they make a point to say they will try to make peace with their enemies.” Yao laughed, finally sliding his hand from the inner lining of his sleeve to press against his left temple. ”You should be simply grateful that they don’t take this as means to attack you ruthlessly, Sang Kyu. Your allies are strong, but don’t ponder for one moment what would become of you if you did not have what you hold today. If you are so inclined to start talks with your brother, to seek attention, then you do so under my name over your own.” Something within Yao’s voice made it utterly clear that there was a mixture of scolding and insult emerging from his speech. ”The circle of tolerance is small, even by our standards in modern times.” He heard the metal clack of some tool, which only stopped him for one second. Yet that was enough for Sang Kyu to continue on, “So, after a ‘crisis,’ of sorts, they are sure to actually follow through, instead of saying so but not doing as they have had a nasty habit of doing in the past…” A low rumble echoed in the back of Yao’s throat, Sang Kyu was treading on something fairly dangerous; Yao’s generosity and patience. No more, I’ve had enough. If my government is right to assume that North Korea is taking China’s hospitality into account--.[/i]

Hand reaching out, he took the tea pot and set it down with a gentle but firm hand. It seemed as if he somehow glided over to where his younger sibling was, but as smooth and calculated as he could be—everything was taunt with Yao’s silent agitation. “Would you like some tea, Hyung?” The offer was tempting, it would calm him. Which might have been Sang Kyu’s intention all along. ”No, I do not. Not right now, right now I want you to listen to me very carefully.”

”What you have done is disgraceful. If you do not agree, then that is your own choice, and my failure for raising you as such. You are playing China, you are playing the card of family for your own means of protection! How dare you treat an ally, your own elder brother as a pawn in your play to get Yong Soo to speak with you? You don’t even know if that is what will come about this! You make shots in the dark, you believe you understand everyone and everything around you to create the perfect means to gain your desires.” Selfishness, as blinded as his twin; they were two sides of the same coin and yet—this happened. It always did. He didn’t deny that Sang Kyu had his own means, his own reasons, his own points to act on key to what he understood what worked. ”This will only give you the results you desire because of means that are not in your control. Your allies, your brothers allies; everything that is not dependent on you is what keeps this from becoming a war that you cannot partake in.” China lifted his hand from the small kettle, his heart having picked up with the rush of blood that came with his internal fury. He could feel strongly about anything, but the card of his own kin was tender, bruised—it had been used against him many times. Adding this would only make his agony more contorted.

”If you continue, there might come a time that China cannot aid you—or will not, which is more likely. Considering how one such as yourself is acting.” Yao’s voice dropped slowly, the monotone he’d been in for the long talk now finally mellowing. It was not calming, however; it came off as haunting, evasive, and alluding to an outcome neither wanted. ”Is that what you desire?”
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((Few Notes in this one, and sorry for the wait, didi! I hope this is to your liking—minus all the rough love near the end. HE DOES CARE, I SWEAR agkangksfks. You just push the wrong buttons. Urghhkkk.

China considers his life to be in “Cycles”—many of which have made him hit rock bottom. The one I’m alluding to is the Warring States Period, as well as the period of 1600’s -1800’s, including the Opium Wars which more or less almost concaved China from the inside out.

There is also a reference to some other Chinese Civil Wars, which I catagorize as “multiple personality” crazy time. One of the most notable is Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms (907–960) an era of political upheaval in China, between the fall of the Tang Dynasty and the founding of the Song Dynasty. During this period, five dynasties quickly succeeded one another in the north, and more than 10 independent states were established, mainly in the south.

The last bit, which alludes the title of this thread—as well as some of the “leaked” information from China that it feels “taken advantage” of within this situation. That “North Korea is farcing [China] into taking action,” knowing that China will do so.. for both its own reasons as well as alliance to North Korea. Yao’s taking it a bit personally too.

I think that’s it? Yaaay. Feels nice to post again.))