Chapter Three – The Transfers Train It Up.

Hello again readers! Sorry again for the late chapter. As I said last time I posted, I have big plans for this story, so it is not dead! Basically since posting my last chapter I finished my teaching job in Tokyo and have moved back to Australia, so I've been pretty busy.

Before we begin I really want to thank my sister UNseated4TH who helped me edit this chapter. My sister is currently studying publishing and creative writing at university, so if you're looking for some well written stories, I recommend giving some of her stories a go (after finishing this chapter of course :D )

Also I want to thank the people who took the time to review my last chapter. Quite a few hours go into planning, writing and editing this story and I really appreciate reading my reviews so that I get a feel for what people thing about the direction the story is taking.

On that note I want to mention a slight change I made that some people may notice. When I initially wrote Francis, I more strongly accented his dialogue. It wasn't quite as strong as it was in the actual Harry Potter books, but it still looked a bit distracting when written down. I was not quite happy with the way I had done it and after reading some of the comments confirming my thoughts on the matter I have decided to turn the accent down a little.

I think that's all I need to say on this side of the chapter, so without any more stalling, please enjoy the new chapter….

London

1st September, 8am

Alfred's POV

Well, today's the day, thought Alfred as he took one last look at the interior of Arthur's house before turning his back and following his fellow nations through the deluge of rain to the black cars that would take them to Kings Cross.

Stepping into the car, Alfred did his best to shake the water from his hair and clothes – Who'd have thought that you could get completely drenched from being in the rain for such a short amount of time? Abandoning his efforts to dry his hair, Alfred instead opted to look out the window, watching as the town-house disappeared from view. As the car began to pick up speed, Alfred began reflecting on the past few days that had lead to this moment.

The nations' initial plan had been to begin their study the very next day after Arthur had called them all together. It was only the next morning, after Kiku had questioned how they would study without any equipment that the trip to Diagon Alley had been brought forward a few days. By the time the relevant text books, uniforms, wands and various other bits and pieces had been bought, the day was nearly over. And although Alfred had refused to admit it out loud, he had quite enjoyed the place – with everyone around hurrying about, fulfilling their shopping needs.

The next day had not been as fun. True, the Seidhr gems had sped up their learning capabilities to a – well a magically fast rate, it still meant that Alfred had needed to spend a couple of hours focusing all his attention on the one thing that he had been avoiding for so long. It had taken Alfred six hours to get to the level he needed to be at for the coming year. At first he thought it'd take him an additional two hours of study, but as Arthur had explained, his level needed to be at the beginning of fourth year, not at the end. Alfred had actually tried to get those last two hours of study in anyway – to learn everything that he was suppose to learn over the next year in just an afternoon, but after he had finished learning the third year curriculum, memorising each new fact and mastering every new spell on the first try, the same could not be said when he began studying the fourth year lessons. Arthur had ended up explaining to him that since his stone was intended for the start of fourth year, it would not let him magically go through the fourth year content before he sat it in class.

"After all, it would kind of be like cheating," Arthur had said.

Francis and Matthew had taken an extra two days to finish their study – despite the fact Matthew had had to do double the amount of hours that Francis was required to do. Alfred suspected that Francis had done a fair bit of procrastinating before finally getting on task – something that Alfred was also guilty of.

The morning after finishing his study, Alfred had quickly gone back to America to inform his boss of the job he'd be undertaking. His boss, who was surprised to say the least, insisted that the American Minister for Magic be informed as well, which would have been a quicker job had the Minister already known about the existence of personified nations. Alfred looked out the passenger window with a sheepish expression on his face as he thought about the hours that followed. First having to explain about the nations, and then explaining the importance of having to go to the school for a year. Alfred had deliberately left that part of the story out when telling the other nations about his quick trip home. He suspected he'd never hear the end of it were Arthur to find out.

It had only been yesterday morning when Alfred had met with the others again. Unlike the previous meetings, this one had been quick and to the point. Arthur had gone over a few key points before asking for questions.

"None?" he had questioned after a couple of moments. "Good. So that just about wraps everything up. From tomorrow onwards we'll be surrounded by humans. I don't need to remind you how important it is that we keep the existence of us as nations a secret."

The others murmured their agreements.

"So we need to make sure there are no slip-ups that may tip someone off as to who we are." England's eyes had lingered on America and France for a moment. "Obviously however, there are going to be some moments where we need to talk about where we are within our mission."

"So we find somewhere private to speak," said America. "Make sure we don't blab out anything important in front of anyone."

"Remember it's a magic school," Canada had contributed. "We need to make sure that if someone is listening in – either by magical or non magical means – that they are not able to figure out what we are saying."

"How do we do that?"

"Well, ze easiest way for someone to understand us would be if we were having these conversations in English," France said before flicking his hair back and continuing, "I think if we ditch your language when saying anything important, there will be less chance of our conversations being understood."

"Unfortunately I think you might be right," England said, surprising the others by his lack of argument. "While there are ways of magically translating conversation, they are quite difficult to use and often inaccurate – otherwise every wizard would be multilingual."

"Then it's settled," said America. "When we need to speak privately, we use something other than English."

"Wonderful," said France. "Of course it would be best to use my language. It will be such a nice change within the castle to hear something other than that harsh sounding thing you call a language."

"A language that has become much more important than your own in the last few centuries," England retorted causing the pair to break into another one of their fights.

"Actually Francis," Japan had interrupted before the fight could escalate. "Considering the country of France is so close, I do not think it would be wise to choose your language. There is a fair chance that some of the student may be able to understand. I think we should choose a language that has less chance of being understood."

"Well, it's not like we can only speak English and French," America commented. "We could keep switching languages whenever we need to talk."

"I think it'd be better to just use one language," England said. "People would start talking if it got out that the transfer students could speak a dozen different languages."

"Um, dude, I don't thing I know a dozen languages."

"My point is I think it'd be better to choose just one language. It'd also be more convincing if we chose one of our languages. Obviously we can't go with English and as Kiku just pointed out, it's quite possible that some of the students can understand French. I doubt many of the students can speak Japanese though, so why don't we use your language Kiku?"

The other nations considered this for a few moments, before agreeing to use it as their go-to language for if a confidential conversation was necessary. They continued to discuss the details for a while longer before Canada finally excused himself.

"I think I should be on my way," he had said. "I want to get to the school before the students do since it'll be easier meeting the teachers and getting a feel for the place before the school is full of kids."

"Fair enough," England had agreed. "Do you have to leave right now though? It's just on lunch time and I've prepared something for us all."

"Ohh, ahh..." Canada stammered. "W-well actually I was thinking of going now, you see –"

"He just doesn't want any of your terrible cooking," France had interjected.

"What was that, Frog?"

"No no, it's not that," Canada said, waving his hands in front of him before France could reply. "It's just…." he paused, seemingly looking for an excuse."Look at those clouds outside! It looks like it's going to storm for sure. It's a long trip to Hogwarts, so if I want to beat that rain I'd better leave now."

With that, Canada began lugging his trunk to the front door. The other nations, including England, who was wearing a slight frown, came to see him off.

"Well, I guess I'll be seeing you at school then," Canada had said as he placed his trunk down on the pavement. "Next time I see you we'll all be at Hogwarts," he had stopped for a moment, looking down at a small wet splosh on his hand and then up at the sky. "Hey, I was right about the rain after all. So, Arthur, how do you do this Knight Bus thing again?"

It had taken an extra minute or so for the Knight Bus to arrive, a young pimply man to take the trunk and for Canada to say 'good-bye' once more and already the light sprinkle had turned to a downpour.

And the rain hasn't stopped. Alfred thought in some annoyance as the car he was in finally pulled up outside Kings Cross Station.

Platform 9 ¾

Hermione's POV

Hermione Granger dragged her trunk on-board the Hogwarts Express, glad to finally leave the rain behind her. Looking back, Hermione could see the Weasleys plus Harry still on the platform pulling their trunks. "Ron!" she called. "I'll go on ahead to find a space before there's no more free compartments."

Ron, who was several students (and trunks) behind gave her a thumb up in response. Turning, Hermione began making her way down the corridor trying to find a space where she and the boys could enjoy the trip to Hogwarts. However this task was turning out to be more difficult than she had anticipated. Every compartment she passed already had students inside, or at the very least student's trunks – indicating that someone had already marked the compartment as their own. Hermione was already half way down the train when she finally found a compartment that was not yet occupied. However another student, coming from the opposite direction had made the discovery at the exact moment she had.

Looking at the Asian boy facing her, Hermione gave a faint smile. "Ahh..."

"Hi," the boy responded a little awkwardly. "This would not be the first free compartment you have come across would it?"

"Actually it is," Hermione admitted.

"Hmm, same for me."

"So there's nothing on that side of the train either then."

It was more a statement than a question. Nonetheless the Asian boy confirmed with; "Yeah."

The two stood there for a moment longer, a slightly awkward moment passed before Hermione took another look at the compartment. It was a decent size. "I guess we could share, my friends won't mind if you don't."

The boy smiled at this. "That sounds good with me – provided you can put up with my friends."

"Deal."

The two entered the compartment. After putting her luggage away, Hermione turned and looked at the boy with slight interest. Though small, he clearly wasn't a first year – and yet Hermione was sure she had not seen the boy at Hogwarts before.

"I don't think we've met. What's your name?"

"Kiku Honda."

"Kiku Honda," Hermione repeated slowly, searching her memory for the name. I'm sure I haven't heard that name around Hogwarts before, nor anywhere else for that matter.

"I am transferring to the school this year," Kiku explained. "So I have not actually met any Hogwarts students yet."

"Really?! That's so exciting! This is the first time I've spoken to transfer student. My name's Hermione Granger. What grade will you be in?"

"Fourth."

"Great – that's the same grade I'll be in. So I'm guessing you'll be sorted into a house tonight?"

"That is what I have been told." Kiku paused for a moment before asking, "Which house are you in?"

"Gryffindor. I've got some pretty good friends there. Speaking of which, they should be here soon," Hermione looked at the door, half expecting Harry and Ron to come through at that moment. "Wait a second – you said I'm the first Hogwarts student you've met?"

"Correct."

"Then those friends you mentioned, are they transfers too?"

"They are," Kiku also looked towards the door. "Actually I better go and find them – let them know that I have found somewhere to sit," just as he left the compartment he stopped and added, "By the way, thank you for suggesting that we share the compartment Hermione-san."

Smiling, Hermione also moved to the door to find her own friends. However unlike Kiku, Hermione's search was over the moment she poked her head out the door.

"There you are," Ron greeted her, moving into the compartment. He and Harry put their trunks in the luggage rack along with Hermione's. "We were starting to wonder if you'd managed to find one at all, it's so busy."

"No kidding," Harry agreed as Ron peeked out the window at the torrents of water still falling outside. "Maybe because of the rain, people got onto the train earlier than usual."

"That'd probably be it."

Harry turned back to his trunk, pulling his wand out of his jean pocket at the same time.

"Wingardium Leviosa."

At once the heavy trunk began to float upwards and with a small flick of his wand, Harry neatly slotted it into a space above the seats.

"Have I mentioned how good it is to finally be able to use magic again?" he said.

"No kidding," commented Ron as he levitated his trunk into the spot next to Harry's. "I don't see why we have to wait until we're on the train though. Lugging these things through the rain was such a pain."

"Well we couldn't levitate them before arriving on platform 9 ¾," Hermione reasoned. "I'm pretty sure the Muggles would start asking questions if they saw trunks floating through the station."

"What about after we got onto the platform then?" Ron complained. "I still don't see why we have to wait until we're all the way in here."

"Hermione," Harry interrupted, noticing Kiku's trunk in the baggage storage shelf on the opposite side of the compartment. "Did you notice someone's already left their trunk here? This compartment's already taken."

"Who cares?" said Ron, coming over from the window and spreading out on the seat. "We've got it now."

"Actually…." Hermione continued, telling Ron and Harry about her meeting with Kiku the transfer student, who was apparently travelling with even more transfer students.

"Transfer students?" said Ron with a look of surprise. "Since when has Hogwarts ever taken in transfer students?"

"Well I've never heard of it before," said Harry. "Maybe it's a first?"

Hermione looked at the boys incredulously for a moment. "Are you two serious? It's not unusual for Hogwarts to get transfer students every couple years. The last transfer student came two years ago, Anna Smith. She's the in year ahead of us and moved from Wagga Wagga Woy Woy in Australia. She was sorted into Ravenclaw."

"We didn't see that sorting," Ron said.

"That still doesn't give you an excuse to be so ignorant – plenty of students have transferred to Hogwarts – and from it too. What do you think happened to that black haired Slytherin kid with the glasses from our first year?"

"I don't care, he's Slytherin," both boys said.

"Well, he transferred didn't he? Why do you think he's no longer in any of our classes?"

"Alright, we get the picture," said Ron, slightly exasperated. Standing up he added, "We'd better get back outside to say bye to Mum, Charlie and Bill before the train leaves."

Shaking her head a little Hermione also stood up and followed the boys off the train.

Hogwarts Express

Alfred's POV

Alfred entered the empty compartment, and with a quick look of the room he noted with some surprise the lack of any overtly magical items. With the exception of the owls there was nothing that really hinted that the destination of this train was actually a boarding school for wizarding children – something Alfred found quite surprising given the magical barrier they had just had to walk through in order to access the correct platform.

As Arthur shut the door behind them, Alfred took his heavy trunk by the handles and easily hoisted it into a free spot on the luggage rack.

"Have I mentioned how good it is to finally be able to pick up this thing properly?" he said.

"It was annoying, pretending that we cannot lift these ourselves, especially when we were dragging them through the rain," Francis said while Kiku nodded his agreement.

"It was not fun."

Although unable to lift the trunk quite as smoothly as Alfred had, the French nation hoisted his trunk into the overhead racks.

"The fact that it was annoying is irrelevant," began Arthur, ignoring the way Alfred rolled his eyes. "Our mission began the moment we walked out those doors this morning. We need to blend in as much as possible and that's not going to happen if we carry 50kg trunks around as though they weighed the same as a grocery bag."

"But they pretty much do weigh the same."

"Maybe to someone with your freakish strength, but not to any normal person."

"I'm not freakishly strong. It's everyone else who's freakishly weak!" Alfred laughed.

"Japan," Francis said, noting the three trunks on the luggage racks opposite their own. "Did you notice that there are already trunks in here?"

"Oh, yes. A girl found this compartment at the same time I did," explained Kiku. "Since all the other compartments were already full we agreed to share."

"Hmmm," muttered Arthur, taking a seat by the window. "That's a bit of a pain. It would have been good to have this last bit of time by ourselves to go over the final details."

"Dude, we've been going over details all week."

"I agree with America. Maybe it'll be fun getting to know some of the students during the trip – more fun than another meeting at any rate."

"Francis, how many times have I told you to only use our human names from now on?"

"I believe it was-"

"That was a rhetorical question!" Arthur said in exasperation.

Alfred moved to the window, looking out through the rain he could see a few teenagers still on the platform as they bid their families farewell. "Hey, Kiku," he said, his tone dubious. "What did this chick seem like? 'Cause it'd suck if we had to spend the next few hours stuck with a bunch of magicist assholes."

"Alfred, I hope you realise that you're going to be surrounded by wizarding people for the next 10 months," said Arthur before Kiku could respond. "You're going to make things pretty difficult for yourself if you don't change that attitude a little."

"Just because I've agreed to come doesn't change the fact that I still think Wizards are snobs."

"Well you're pretending to be one this year and people are going to quickly see through that if you keep that attitude," Arthur said shortly.

"Just give them a go," Kiku encouraged. "Can you say you have actually met many wizards? Maybe they will not be as bad as you think."

"Yeah, maybe," said Alfred reluctantly.

Arthur was just opening his mouth – likely to add something else about Alfred's attitude when a boy's voice was heard from the other side of the door.

"…..At the World Cup, remember? But my own mother won't say." A teenage boy with bright red hair flung the door wide open. "Wonder what –" he stopped in his tracks, taking in the people already in the compartment. "Oh. Hey, Hermione, are these the transfers?" he asked of a brown haired girl as though Alfred and his companions were not listening.

"Yes," the girl – Hermione responded. "At least, I assume these are the friends you mentioned Kiku?"

"Hai," nodded Kiku before introducing his fellow nations to the three Hogwarts students. In turn they introduced themselves. Alfred had to admit that he was a little surprised to find out the black haired boy taking a seat across from him was Harry Potter.

Really, thought Alfred, out of the hundreds of students we might have shared a compartment with, we just happened to be sharing a room with the boy who is responsible for us being here. Fate really is interesting – If you actually believe in that sort of thing.

"It's pretty cool that you're all transferring this year," Harry said after everyone had introduced themselves. "Why are you coming to Hogwarts though?"

Arthur answered with the well rehearsed back story they had gone over so many times over the previous week. "Well most of our parents have careers at the Ministry of Magic within the Foreign Magical Affairs Department, which require them to travel around the world. Until recently my parents were stationed in America. That's where I went to school and met this lot," he nodded his head towards the others. "It just so happened that when my parents were called back to England, the Ministry of Magic also called upon Kiku and Francis' families to come over."

"Interesting," Hermione commented. "So what's… Alfred's reasoning for transferring?"

"It's quite similar to our reason," Arthur answered. "His parents also had to move to England. Unlike us though, Alfred's parents are Muggles, so obviously they weren't moving for the Ministry."

"So you're a Muggle born?" Ron asked Alfred. "That's cool; Hermione's parents are Muggles too."

"My parents work as dentists in Central London," Hermione added with a smile.

Alfred seemed encouraged by the positive response to his made up heritage. Looks as though they're not as magicist as I thought they would be. They have no problems with my 'parents' being Muggles, and Hermione seems happy to talk about her Muggle parents – maybe Arthur's right about the kids here not being so magicist.

"My parents are doctors. They moved over nearly ten months ago," Alfred decided to elaborate. "So I've been staying with my older brother when I haven't been at school – but then he got a job in Scotland of all places. So since all my family and several of my friends were moving to the UK, I thought, 'Hey – what the hell, why shouldn't I go too? You only live once after all.'"

Arthur smiled shaking his head slightly, glad at least that Alfred seemed to be giving the situation a fair go – though did he really need to add that much extra detail to his back story?

"Fair enough," Harry laughed.

"So, you all lived in America for a while?" Hermione questioned. "I'm guessing you're originally from America?" Alfred nodded his reply. "What about the two of you?"

"I'm from France," Francis took his turn in answering. "It is truly a magnificent country – you should count yourself blessed to live so near it, even if you are not lucky enough to be part of it."

"It's not all that great," commented Arthur. "I can think of plenty of other places I'd rather go."

Francis frowned for a moment before saying, "Coming from ze person with ze most bland tastes in the world I don't think that can even be taken as an insult."

Grinning, Alfred looked back at Arthur waiting to see how his former mentor would take the redirected insult. Harry, Ron and Hermione were also watching with looks of mild amusement at the argument between the two transfer students that had seemingly started over nothing.

"Are you implying something, Frog?"

"Well, if you're too stupid to work that one out for yourself, I'm not going to tell you."

"You're such an wanker– "

"Hey there everyone!" came a new voice as the compartment door was flung open and two identical red haired teens came in, disrupting the argument.

"Fred, George. What do you two want?" asked Ron.

"Can you believe this George?" one of the twins – Fred – asked the other.

"It's hard to, but then again this is our simple younger brother we're talking about," replied George.

"What are you two going on about?" Ron asked.

"Looks like we're going to have to explain it," Fred said in an exaggerated exasperated tone.

"On the platform you told us that there were transfer students in your compartment," continued George.

"We don't get transfers at Hogwarts all that often," added Fred.

"So we wanted to come and check them out for ourselves," they both finished together.

"I guess this is the down side of sharing a compartment with transfer students," commented Ron darkly. "We have to put up with you two."

"Hey, no need to be so grumpy little brother," Fred grinned.

"Yeah, people might get the idea you don't want us here."

"Imagine that," said Ron rolling his eyes.

Fred and George meanwhile began introducing themselves to Alfred and the other nations.

Alfred smiled as the twins made themselves comfortable. They had literally just met, but Alfred could already tell that he was going to like Fred and George – Despite them being wizards.

"So what grades are you lot going into?" Fred asked.

"Kiku, Alfred and I will be going into the fourth grade."

"Hey – that's the same as us!" Ron said happily.

"And Francis is starting sixth grade."

"Ah, that's cool. That's our grade – Hope to see you in Gryffindor," said George.

"That's ze plan," Francis responded.

Alfred noted the glare Arthur gave Francis over this comment. Fortunately, however it seemed that no one else had noticed.

"Hey Kiku," Ron asked after a short pause. "We heard from the others that they come from England, America and France but you didn't mention where you're from. Is it Japan?"

"Yes it is," replied Kiku. "How did you know?"

"Well you name is 'Kiku Honda', which sounds like a very Japanese name. Also, earlier you said 'Hai' – the Japanese word for 'yes', and you use 'san' after people's names.

"Since when do you know Japanese?" Hermione asked, shock evident on her face. She was not the only one Alfred noted. Harry, as well as the twins also looked shocked at this revelation. The nations meanwhile exchanged slightly concerned looks.

"I don't know much Japanese – I had a Japanese friend before I started Hogwarts," Ron replied, looking slightly embarrassed that all the attention was now focused on him.

"So, ah, how much Japanese would you say you know?" asked Arthur in a would-be natural voice.

"Not much to be honest," Ron admitted. "Really, I only know a few words – Like I remember 'hai' means 'yes', because in English 'hi' means 'hello'. Anyway," he continued, turning his attention back to Kiku. "My friend's name was Yuki Fujishiro. Do you know him?"

The comment was met with a mixture of groans and laughter.

"And after such a smart deduction he goes and says something so stupid," commented Fred.

"What?"

"Ron, think about it. There's close to a hundred and thirty million people living in Japan. What are the chances that Kiku would know your old friend?"

"Oh right," Ron said, the tips of his ears turning red due to apparent embarrassment over his assumption.

The group fell into silence for a few minutes, all watching as the rain battering the windows became even heavier. This combined with the occasional stroke of lightning made for quite an impressive thunderstorm.

"Well George," said Fred after the lightning died down a little. "We set out to see the transfer students and now we have."

"That is true," agreed his twin. "There is little more we can do here."

"You're leaving then?" Harry asked as Ron pointed out the fact that they didn't really do anything in the first place.

"Yeah, there are some people we want to catch up with before we get to Hogwarts," said George.

"Hey, Francis," Fred added. "You're in our grade right? How about you come with us? We'll introduce you to everyone you need to know."

"Sounds good," Francis replied. Standing up he turned to the other nations. "I don't expect I'll be back, so I'll see you when we arrive at ze school."

"And who do you expect is going take your trunk?" Arthur asked in a tone that suggested he already knew what the answer would be.

"Oh, I know you can do it, little Arthur."

"Like hell I'll take your junk. And what's with this 'little Arthur' business?!"

However, Francis was already gone. Grinning at the exchange the twins also left.

"Stupid git," Arthur muttered, glaring at the spot where Francis had disappeared around the corner. "I don't care if his stuff gets sent all the way back to London on this train – I'm not taking it for him."

Grinning, Harry asked, "That's the second time the two of you have argued. Do you fight often?"

"They're always at it." Alfred responded quickly. "Every time they have the opportunity they're at each other's throats – and often that's literally – Actually it's pretty fun to watch."

"Oh, don't you start acting like you have nothing to do with them Alfred. Half the time you either start those fights, or join in before they're over."

"Ok – true," Alfred conceded before turning to Harry, Ron and Hermione. "I only join because Iggy's reactions make them so much fun."

"How many times do I have to tell you to stop calling me that bloody stupid name?!" shouted Arthur, simultaneously proving Alfred's point to the trio as well as answering the question, 'who's Iggy' before it could even leave their mouths.

Arthur's POV

As the afternoon progressed, the nations were introduced to some more of the fourth year boys who eagerly began talking about the Quidditch World Cup. Noting that the more serious events of the night were not being discussed, Arthur began to tune out. Hermione too seemed to be growing tired of the conversation, opting to read one of her textbooks instead of joining in.

So far so good. Arthur thought wiping steam from the window and watching the dark rain pummeling against the pane. Somehow, by chance we've managed to meet Potter before we even got to Hogwarts. It looks like he and his friends will be pretty easy to get along with, which will make this year a lot easier – especially for Alfred. Arthur looked over as both Alfred and Kiku contributed to the conversation. It actually looks like he's enjoying himself – thank God for that. We've been with the humans for a few hours now without any major slip ups, so with any luck-

"So what is Quidditch anyway?"

The conversation ceased as the boys stared at Alfred with looks of shock on their faces. Even Hermione looked over her book in surprise.

Damn it Alfred! How many times had they been over this during the past week?

"You said you're in forth year! How could you not know what Quidditch is?!" questioned Ron, looking appalled at the thought that someone could live in the wizarding world for so long without knowing about the popular sport.

That stupid git! Thought Arthur, unthinkingly open his mouth to tell the other nation just this.

Fortunately Kiku stepped in first. "There was a pretty bad Quidditch accident at our school a few years before we began which caused all Quidditch related things – including the game itself – to be banned within the school, so we've never been able to watch it there," the Japanese nation lied smoothly. "As we mentioned, Alfred's Muggle born and since he goes back to his parents during the holidays he still doesn't know a lot about the wizarding world – including what magical sports are popular."

The teens in the carriage still looked a little skeptical about this.

"I suppose that makes sense," said Hermione slowly after a few moments. "I guess you wouldn't know much about it if you come from a Muggle family and it's banned at your school."

Alfred nodded, going along with the story.

"Quidditch is a great game," contributed Harry. "It's played on broomsticks~"

"As I told you the other day," Arthur commented, glaring at Alfred.

"Dude, you said so much the other day, you can't have expected me to take in all of it." Alfred said casually before turning to ask Harry. "So, how do you play?"

The next twenty minutes were spent explaining the ins and outs of Quidditch. As Hermione once again busied herself with her text book, the boys eagerly explained the rules of the sport as well as how the houses at Hogwarts competed annually for the Quidditch House Cup.

"The World Cup was Quidditch as you've never seen it before – though I guess you've never seen it at all Alfred," Ron added after the subject had once again shifted to the World Cup. "And as I said earlier, seeing it from the Top Box was something else!"

"Well you better have enjoyed it then Weasley, because it's not like you'll ever get to do that again."

Arthur looked towards the compartment door where a smug looking blond kid was leaning against the door with his hands in his pocket. Behind him where two thuggish looking teens, who in stereotypical bully fashion had their arms folded in front of them.

"Don't remember asking you to join us, Malfoy," Harry said coolly to the newcomer.

The blond kid, whom Arthur assumed to be Malfoy ignored this comment and entered their compartment anyway, closely followed by his two friends. "So the rumours are true then," he said, standing in front of the nations. "We've got more transfers at Hogwarts this year. The name's Draco Malfoy."

"Arthur Kirkland," Arthur replied shortly as the American and Japanese nations gave their names.

"Great, now you know that you've met it's time for you to shove off," Ron said.

"You're going to have to ask nicer than that if you want anything Weasly," Malfoy sneered. "Anyway, I didn't come here to exchange names," turning his attention back to the nations he continued. "Rumours say that you'll be in forth year this year, so I'm here to offer you a chance that only an idiot would pass up on. Maybe you haven't realised this yet, but you're currently sitting with some of the real dregs of wizarding society. It's not too late though, come meet my friends and we can forget about who you have been sitting with until now." Malfoy paused for a moment before turning to Harry. "It's too late for you though Potter."

"Like I was ever interested!"

"So what do you say?" Malfoy ignored the last comment.

Arthur rolled his eyes. Who the heck was this kid, coming strutting into the compartment thinking that they'd go with him simply because he'd asked them to? Clearly the two groups of teens did not like one another, but at least Harry's group were not going around looking for trouble. Arthur opened his mouth to decline the offer when Kiku responded first.

"You implied that you gave Harry the same offer and he declined?" Kiku turned to Harry. "It would appear you made the smart choice then, Harry-san."

"What was that?"

"That's just Kiku's way of saying we don't want to go off with an arrogant jerk like you," Alfred said with something of a grin on his face.

"Heh, you might say that now – but it won't take you long to figure out I'm right about this. I'm feeling generous at the moment so I'll let my offer stand until we get to Hogwarts."

"Whatever," said Alfred while pulling up his backpack. "You've actually just reminded me of something I brought for when I don't feel like listing to idiots," Alfred proceeded to search through his backpack.

"I think they've made it pretty clear they're not coming," said Ron. "Now there's the door, so how about you get lost. Oh, and make sure you take Crabbe and Goyle with you – I'm not sure they'd be able to find their way out of this compartment without getting themselves lost if no one's there to show them."

The two thuggish looking teens growled in response.

Woah, they understood the insult. Arthur thought in some surprise.

"I'll be sure to make sure they're behind me when I do leave," Malfoy said coolly. "But first, the other big question; Weasley are you going to enter? Going to try and bring a bit of glory to the family? Win a bit of money and upgrade that shabby wardrobe of yours a bit?"

"What are you going on about?" snapped Ron.

"Are you going to enter?" Malfoy repeated slowly. "Obviously Potter will, everyone knows how much he likes to show off."

"If you have something to say, then say it," said Hermione testily, lowering her textbook slightly. "If not then go away."

A gleeful smile spread across Malfoy's pale face.

"You seriously don't know?" he said delightedly. "You've got a father and brother at the Ministry and you don't even know? Woah, my father told me about it ages ago… I guess that goes to show the difference in level between our fathers – the fact they didn't even tell him… It's a bit embarrassing really."

"Would you please stop boasting? It is of no importance to the overall event if you know about the Triwizard Tornament before the other students do." Kiku said suddenly, apparently having grown sick of the constant boasting.

"Kiku!" exclaimed Arthur; he'd have expected this kind of slip up from either Francis or Alfred, not of the Japanese nation.

"The Triwizard Tornament?! That's coming back? You're kidding!" Ron exclaimed.

"How did you know about that?!" Malfoy said in shock, clearly put out by the fact that someone else would actually know.

"We weren't suppose to find out," Arthur contributed, glaring at Kiku for making a new, unrehearsed excuse necessary. "Our fathers work at the ministry. Kiku and I were there with them when we first arrived in England a few days ago. Our fathers were waiting to meet with Fudge and when we did meet with him he began telling them all about the tournament."

"Yeah, so it wasn't only your dad he told – he's been telling just about everyone. I'm sure he told your dad too Ron," said Alfred, grinning up from his backpack, which he was still rummaging through.

"Actually, he didn't notice we were there at first. When Fudge realised that we'd heard about the Tournament he asked us to keep it quiet. Apparently they want it to remain a surprise until it is announced tonight at the Welcome Feast." His tone once again picked up an air of accusation as he stared at Kiku.

"I was not the one to bring the subject up Arthur-san," Kiku stated calmly.

"Finally, found it!" Alfred declared, pulling out a small box from within his bag.

"Uh, Alfred," asked Harry. "Is that a Game Boy?"

"Sure is," Alfred replied happily. "It's a colour one – latest model. I find it's a good way of ignoring pretentious jerks," Alfred pressed one of the buttons, and then frowned for a moment before stating. "Looks like it's out of power. Where's the power socket on this train?"

It was with great difficulty that Arthur resisted the urge to face palm. How many times over the last week had he told Alfred that electronics couldn't be brought into the school? And now he goes and blurts something like that out in front of everyone! At this rate we'll be lucky to reach the school with our secret intact let alone the end of the school year.

"Actually I don't think you'll find a power socket anywhere on this train," commented Hermione looking at Alfred a little strangely.

"Fair enough, this train does look pretty old," Alfred reasoned. "That's ok, I can charge it when I get to the school."

"That won't be possible either I'm afraid," said Hermione. "Maybe they might work at magic schools that are not as large as Hogwarts, but Hogwarts is really pretty big. Electronics simply don't work there. The magic in the air interferes with the electricity."

"Which you'd know if you'd bothered to listen when I was talking to you," Arthur said in frustration.

"You never said my games wouldn't work," Alfred accused.

"Actually Alfred-san, those are the exact words Arthur said," contributed Kiku.

"So, just to be clear," Malfoy began turning toward Alfred. "You brought this…. Muggle thing to school. That must mean that either one of your parents is a Muggle, or they both are. Which is it?"

Alfred stared at Malfoy darkly for a few moments. Arthur was just beginning to wonder if Alfred would answer before the later stated; "They're both Muggles. What of it?"

Malfoy sniggered slightly before turning to the two thuggish boys behind him. "Well, Crabe, Goyle, it's a good thing we found out about this when we did. Can you imagine if we had accidentally brought the Mudblood back with us? He'd have stunk out the carriage in no time. I guess I didn't notice straight away since there's already a Mudblood here." With that the pair sniggered behind him. Ignoring the angry comments coming from both Harry and Ron, Malfoy turned to Kiku and Arthur. "You said your parents work at the ministry, meaning you're both actual wizards. The offer is still open if you want to get out of this stench."

"Wait just a moment." Alfred said, standing to his feet. "That seemed like an interesting name you were using to describe Hermione's and my heritage just now. What exactly did you call us again?"

Uh oh, thought Arthur exchanging a similar look of concern coming from Kiku. Arthur recognised the strange calmness that Alfred was currently showing. It did not happen often, but when it did, it meant that Alfred was mad. Very mad.

Remember our mission; don't let this little brat's words get to you.

"I called you a Mudblood, do you need me to break it down for you?"

"Oh no. No, I think I can do it myself," Alfred continued with the same eerie calmness. "Let's see. Mudblood…. Mudblood. Mud as in messy and dirty, and blood as in – well the blood that runs through my veins. So because I come from a non magic background you think that people like me are messy and dirty – a lower class I suppose. So Mudblood… Yep, that's offensive."

It took only a moment for the next few things to happen. Alfred sprang towards Malfoy, first raised, ready to strike his face. Arthur, anticipating this exact response was faster, swiftly positing himself in between the pair. With a sharp cracking sound, Arthur caught the fist in his hand.

"Alfred Jones! Control yourself!"

There was a moment of shocked silence in the compartment as both the Gryffindors and Slytherins watched the exchange between the new students.

Malfoy, looking a tad paler than usual took a moment to check that his two bodyguards were still behind him before regaining his usual smirk. "So you're not just a Mudblood, you're a bit of a psycho too. Well, whatever. Kirkland is it? Nice catch there. The offer still stands if you get sick of all this." With that the Slytherin boys departed the compartment.

"Well, that could have gone better," Arthur commented offhandedly after a few moments. "Really Alfred, you need to think before you ac-"

"Fuck you!" Alfred said angrily before storming over to the door.

"Alfred," Arthur began.

"No! First it's -" Alfred paused for a moment, eyes briefly sweeping over the Hogwarts students present in the room. "Whatever, this is all so stupid. I'm leaving," with that Alfred turned, pulling the door shut so hard that it sprang from its fitting.

….. And done! I really hope you enjoyed it, with a little bit of a cliff hanger to end it all. As I said earlier I think it's been edited enough that there shouldn't be any mistakes, but if you do find any please let me know.

Authors note: So here's a little bit of Australian geography for you. There is large town in Australia a few hundred kilometres inland called Waga Waga. There is another town (this one on the beach) which is about 2 hours north of Sydney called Woy Woy. I have been to both (on different trips as they are both several hours drive away from each other. Anyway, I've always thought it'd be funny if the names were mashed together to make Waga Waga Woy Woy and now I've made it happen through the power of fan fiction :D

Aright, I think that's enough from me for now. Please remember to leave a review if you enjoyed it, I would really appreciate it – it's a lot of fun reading them :D

Bye for now!

Next Time: Alfred wants to leave, how will the other nations convince him to stay? Also the students finally arrive at the school.

Update 1st June 2018

So just gone through for another edit – because there's always more editing to be done. Aside from the grammatical editing, I also had to rework some of the bits that made reference to Arthur being in 3rd grade – as the story goes on, you'll see how that would have been really impractical.