FANFIC- Of Phantoms and Poltergeists CH 1
Title: Of Phantoms and Poltergeists
Author: me
Rating: PG-15
Genre: Mystery, Supernatural, Romance
Characters/Pairings: America, England, France, Canada, Seychelles, Russia, Belarus, Japan and others. US/UK, Fr/Ca, one-sided Seychelles/England, one-sided Belarus/Russia.
Summary: Gakuen Hetalia AU. Sequel to ‘Of Murder and Magic.’ The student council goes to Sinclair Mansion for a summer internship. Things go horribly wrong when Alfred and Arthur discover a mysterious portal. Will Alfred be able to discover the cause of the chaos and rescue his friends before time runs out? US x UK
Warnings: AU, human names, violence, blood, boy love, swearing, mentions of sex
Ch 1 Of Internships and Relationships
Summer was a cheerful time…for most people. For the individuals who worked in the Jones Estate, it was anything but peaceful. Summer was the time that they dreaded most, next to Thanksgiving and the various birthdays celebrated there. It was not that they disliked their boss, Mr. Jones. It was relatively peaceful when he was there. While he had left during his various business trips in the summer, chaos would ensue in the Jones household.
Mr. Jones had two sons, Alfred and Matthew, who returned every summer from their prestigious boarding school, Hetalia Academy. The boys were well behaved when their father was home, either out of fear or respect for their father. When Mr. Jones left, however, it was a different story. Mr. Jones’s sons were known to be loud, chaotic and disruptful. The younger, Matthew was not much trouble on his own but whenever Alfred was home, trouble was bound to occur.
This summer day had been no different. Alfred had woken up, loud and noisy while Matthew had tried to keep him quiet. An argument followed and that’s when chaos followed. Matthew had owned a real polar bear that his father had bought for him on one of his birthdays. The bear lived in a room of its own (the staff had made several appeals to Mr. Jones to move the bear outside in its ‘house’ but Mr. Jones had declined) next to Matthew’s. It was simple enough to care for it. It, along with the room, was cleaned while the bear was tranquilized and it was fed through a window. Normally, these measures were enough to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort but somehow while Matthew and Alfred had fought, the bear had escaped from its prison and had wandered the household, destroying everything in its path. Matthew and Alfred were too engrossed in their argument to notice anything out of the ordinary.
It was Matthew who first noticed the unusual silence in the house.
“It’s kind of quiet now, isn’t it?” Matthew asked softly, his anger forgotten. Alfred nodded, also noticing the quiet house. A loud growl disrupted the silence. Matthew jumped when he realized what had happened. Alfred was a little slow and gave Matthew a puzzled look.
“It’s Kumajirou! He’s escaped!” Matthew exclaimed, distressed that his poor bear was loose.
“W-what?! Well, go get him, Mattie!” Alfred said, shoving Matthew downstairs. The only one who could deal with the bear was Matthew and Alfred felt it was best if Matthew handled the situation. It was his bear after all.
They went downstairs, following the trail of destroyed items as they went until they spotted the white ball of fur. Kumajirou was a small polar bear, no bigger than a large teddy bear. That still didn’t deter the various staff to run away in fear.
“K-kumajirou! Come here! We don’t want father to get any angrier than he already is!” Matthew said sheepishly yet firm, urging the bear to come into his hands. The bear grunted in acknowledgement and made his way towards Matthew. Once Kumajirou was within reach, Matthew grabbed hold of his collar and slowly dragged him back to his room. He closed and made sure to lock the door this time before heading back downstairs to evaluate the damage done.
Matthew almost gaped in horror at the scene before him. Carpets were shredded, vases thrown down, tables knocked over, paintings torn, walls scraped, and pretty much everything else was in tatters. Matthew wondered how they were going to fix this in time before their father came home for dinner.
“Hey, Alfred-“
“I’m not going to help you. You’re on your own. It’s your bear and your problem,” Alfred said as he headed upstairs to his room. He had just gotten some new games that he had wanted to play. He didn’t have to time to waste on helping Mattie clean up.
Alfred had usually spent his summers doing various different activities. This week those activities included video games. Alfred loved playing video games and he was particularly excited about the new games he bought. Midway through his game Alfred received a text. After checking whom it was from, Alfred paused the game and replied to the text. It was a habit that whenever he received a text message from Arthur, he would stop what he was doing to reply. Alfred was delighted to be dating Arthur after the events of the past year. Alfred had even gone to invite Arthur to spend his summer vacation in the states. Arthur had declined, stating that he had applied to a summer internship and had gotten accepted. Alfred had told Arthur that he understood even while he hadn’t. What could be more important than spending time with his awesome boyfriend?
Alfred replied to Arthur’s text message adding an ‘I miss you’ as well. Alfred really couldn’t keep the Briton out of his thoughts for long. Alfred pressed play and continued playing his game. Nothing could distract him more than killing zombies.
Matthew knocked on the door of Alfred’s room. Noticing that Alfred was too engrossed in his game, Matthew came in and lightly tapped Alfred on the shoulder.
“What is it? This better be good. I was getting to the good part,” Alfred grumbled as he stood up to face his brother.
“Mail’s here,” was Matthew’s short curt reply. Alfred snatched the envelopes from Matthew’s hand, searching for anything with his name on it. He made a small noise of triumph once he had found a letter addressed to him. Alfred ripped open the envelope and quickly skimmed the letter inside.
Dear Mr. Alfred Jones
It is my pleasure to
Alfred didn’t even bother to read the rest. He got in! Alfred cheered. Matthew gave Alfred a puzzled look.
“I- you know, how Arthur was going on this internship this summer?” Alfred started.
“No-“
“Well, I applied and I got in! Isn’t this awesome? I get to spend the summer with Iggy!” Alfred cheered, dancing in place.
Matthew looked through the rest of the mail and found a letter addressed to himself. Matthew frowned. He didn’t remember applying to anything. Once he had finished reading the letter it all became clear.
“You sent an application for me? Without my knowledge or permission?” Matthew asked, angry.
“Hm? Well, dad wasn’t just going to let me go by myself so I thought that if you went with me-“
“That he’d be more willing to let you go?! Alfred! You could have at least told me!” Matthew seethed, enraged that Alfred could do such a thing. Then again, it shouldn’t have surprised him. Alfred had always done this sort of thing. Matthew had thought that maybe now that Alfred was dating Arthur that he would outgrow these tactics. An idea struck Matthew. Maybe he could use this to his advantage.
“You know, Alfred, once Father sees this mess he’s not going to let either one of us go,” Matthew said softly, trying to keep himself from smirking. Alfred stopped his happy dance to look at his brother.
“Say what?”
“Maybe if you help me clean up?” Matthew suggested.
“Shit.”
-----------------------------------------
Mr. Alexander Jones had a long, tedious business meeting. He was fairly relieved to be coming home but not all excited to see his two boys. It was not that he disliked them; it was just that they could be quite a handful at times.
The flight to Washington was not too turbulent. Alexander had even been able to see some clouds and the clear blue sky. It was funny how much the sky reminded him of his late wife. He sighed and opened the newspaper that he held in his briefcase and started on the crossword puzzle. He knew that would be able to occupy him before they landed.
Once the plane had made its relatively peaceful landing, Alexander had rushed to the arrivals section, getting the sense that something was horribly wrong in his household. He had gotten in to the limo that was waiting for him in the parking lot. He told the driver to step on it. He patiently waited in the backseat, continuing to read his newspaper.
When the limo pulled up in the driveway, Alfred and Matthew had just finished cleaning up. They saw their father get out of the limo, his suit immaculate as always. Alfred gave Matthew a look before heading upstairs to stash whatever inappropriate material he had laying around under his bed.
Matthew stayed downstairs to greet his father.
The door opened softly. Alexander was a little startled to see Matthew standing there. He surveyed the house once before turning to his youngest son.
“Hello Matthew. I trust that you and your brother have not caused too much trouble while I was away,” he said stoically, still looking for some disturbances. His senses never failed him.
“N-none at all!” Matthew said nervously.
“Where’s your brother?” he asked finally, not even looking at Matthew. Matthew looked down at his feet.
“Upstairs,” Matthew answered softly. A slight frown crossed Alexander’s face.
“Speak up, Matthew. It’s no wonder that you are always being overshadowed by your brother,” he said curtly, not bothering to glance back and see the hurt expression cross Matthew’s features. Matthew supposed that he should have gotten used to this as well. In some ways, Alfred and their father are very much alike. They both had long standing traits that weren’t all that pleasant to those around them. Alfred was selfish, blunt and self-centered. Matthew hoped Arthur could remedy that even if just a little. Their father was overly blunt in his opinions of others, always making his disapproval known. It was very difficult to please Alexander Jones.
Alexander walked upstairs, Matthew at his heels. Matthew hoped that Alfred had enough sense to make his room somewhat decent. Alexander didn’t even bother to knock on the door and simply walked in. He found Alfred sitting on his bed, reading a magazine. Matthew almost sighed in relief. Alfred sure cleaned up well.
“Alfred, what is wrong with you? You don’t even bother to greet your father after his long voyage,” Alexander said in that cold disapproving voice of his. Alfred looked up and gave his father a weak smile before standing up and walking towards him.
“Hello, father. How was your business trip?” Alfred asked.
“We’ll talk over dinner, come. I’m taking you and Matthew out for dinner, my treat,” Alexander said as he gestured for Alfred to come. Alfred nodded before following his father downstairs.
----------------------------------------
Alexander had taken his sons to a fancy French restaurant. Alfred would have preferred hamburgers but held his tongue. The French restaurant had a relaxed atmosphere. The façade was that of an old elaborate baroque building. Flowers and lanterns were hung on the interior, almost like Christmas lights. The rest of the customers talked jovially amongst themselves, some in French, others in languages that Alfred had heard in school. Alfred had ordered Pot-au-feu with some Coke. Matthew ordered confit de canard with club soda while their father had ordered Coq au vin with a dirty martini.
Alfred was somewhat nervous. His father always made him nervous. He glanced to his right at Matthew. Matthew nodded, trying to encourage his brother. Alfred smiled. Matthew could be so selfless sometimes. He really didn’t appreciate him much.
Alfred turned to his father. Alexander had been talking about the many events that occurred in his trip. Alfred cleared his throat, effectively silencing his father. Alfred glanced more at Matthew, who nodded, before speaking.
“Father, I have something to tell you.”
“Is it something about Kumajirou wreaking havoc in my house?” Alexander said nonchalantly, mixing the contents of his martini. Alfred blanched. Oh shit, he knew.
“I-I”
“It’s my fault, father. Please don’t blame Alfred for my mistakes,” Matthew blurted out in a rush, his face red. Alexander arched an eyebrow in question, as if skeptical of Matthew’s tale.
“I believe you,” he said simply, his actions saying otherwise. Alfred started to feel the thick tension in the atmosphere.
“I-“
“Alfred and I have been accepted into an internship program over in Vermont for the summer. We wish to attend, w-with your permission, of course, father,” Matthew said softly yet resolutely. Alexander said nothing at first, barely acknowledging the statement. He started to mix his martini again.
“And you think that I would simply allow you to leave after all the damage that has been done to my house? Do you?” Alexander said, his voice slightly lower than normal. Matthew bowed his head in shame. Alfred gripped the arms of his chair.
“I must say that I am surprised that you would apply for such a program without my coaxing, Alfred.” Alfred and Matthew said nothing, the tense atmosphere growing by the minute.
“Why would you do such a thing, Alfred?” Alfred gulped once. This was it. Moment of truth or better yet, time to lie. Alfred knew his father would never approve of his applying the internship in the first place simply because he wanted to spend more time with his new boyfriend.
“I was thinking of the future, father. Something like this would look really good on my college applications,” Alfred said simply all the while hoping that his father would believe his lie. It was a good lie he had to admit. Surely his father would buy it.
Alexander stopped playing with his martini and looked straight at his son’s eyes. Alfred tried to keep himself from squirming from his father’s strong gaze. After inspecting Alfred for a moment, Alexander lowered his gaze. Alfred almost sighed in relief.
“What’s the real reason?” Crap. Alfred tried to think of something else to say before Matthew beat him to it.
“The truth is that he wants to impress you. Father, I respect you but really, you are a difficult man to please. Alfred just wanted to do something that would impress you. That’s all,” Matthew said warmly, adding a small smile as an afterthought. Alfred almost grinned at Matthew’s words. Genius! It wasn’t a complete lie but it was certainly the farthest thing in his mind when he had applied.
Alexander nodded and then got up from his chair. “Excuse me for a moment. I need to go refresh myself.” Alfred and Matthew followed his retreating figure with their eyes. Once he was out of ear’s reach, they sighed in relief.
“Good thinking, Mattie. I don’t think I could have pulled it off without you,” Alfred grinned.
“Yeah, but we’re not in the clear yet. Father still has to say yes,” Matthew said, starting to chew on his lower lip.
“Relax! We’ll be fine. Did you see him? He completely believed your sob story,” Alfred said, poking his food with his fork.
“I guess. I really can’t believe you would do all this for Arthur-“
“Who’s Arthur?” Alexander asked as he rejoined his sons. Alfred and Matthew almost jumped at the question.
“He’s Alfred’s boy…” Matthew began. Once realizing what he had said, Matthew gave a small gasp, covering his mouth with his hands. Alfred slapped himself on the forehead. Alexander arched his eyebrow in puzzlement. He looked to Alfred for confirmation.
“My boyfriend,” Alfred explained, slumping in his chair, thinking that there was no way that their father would let them go now. Alexander almost crushed his martini glass in barely concealed rage.
“Boyfriend, you said?” Alexander said through gritted teeth. He drank the rest of his martini in one gulp. When he had finished, he called the waiter over and asked for another martini. Matthew and Alfred waited in silence. When Alfred had enough nerve, he spoke.
“Pops, I know that you’re angry and all but I think that you’ll really like Arthur. He’s kind of like you in some ways. I mean, he works real hard to get what he wants and he doesn’t take shit from people and junk-“
“Alfred, language,” Alexander said while massaging his temple.
“-and he’s…you just need to give him a chance! You’ll love him once you meet him. He’s everything you wanted in a son,” Alfred said the last part softly. Alexander sighed.
“Fine.”
“Huh?”
“You can go. Both of you can go,” Alexander said curtly, his eyes closed in frustration.
“Really? You mean it? Thanks, pops! You won’t regret it! I promise!” Alfred exclaimed in joy, smiling widely.
“On one condition.”
Alfred smile dimmed but did not disappear completely. “What?”
“Promise me that you’ll take care of your brother. Anything happens to him and it’s your head I’ll be after.” Alfred nodded enthusiastically before cheering. He smiled and glanced towards his brother. Matthew smiled back, happy for his brother.
Alexander opened his eyes and saw the great smile on Alfred’s face. It was times like these that Alexander wished that his wife were still alive. Alfred reminded him so much of her. He glanced at the busy streets, watching the various people walking around amiably. He glanced once at his youngest child and saw the smile on his face. He closed his eyes once more and hoped that he wasn’t making a big mistake.
-------------------------------------
Alfred had awoken late on the rendezvous day at Hetalia Academy. Apparently, Principal Rome had sponsored the event and was offering those accepted into the internship program a means of transportation. Alfred had wanted to meet and surprise Arthur there. But in order for them to get to Hetalia Academy, they would have to take a flight to New York.
The only reason Alfred had even gotten up was by Matthew’s insistent prodding. They had made it to their flight on time and barely caught the bus.
Alfred was excited to see the look on Arthur’s face. Arthur would surely be glad to see him! Alfred almost dropped his bags when he saw Arthur. Arthur was sitting next to Gilbert Beilschmidt and having a normal conversation with him. Alfred felt himself grow angry at the action. Arthur was enjoying himself talking to someone else, Gilbert of all people. Alfred would have preferred Sechelles to Gilbert.
Alfred made his way to Arthur.
“Hiya, Iggy. It’s nice to see that you’re enjoying yourself,” Alfred whispered in Arthur’s ear.
“Al-alfred! What are you doing here? And don’t startle me like that!” Arthur screeched, surprise evident on his face. Alfred grinned at Arthur before turning to frown at Gilbert.
“Guess what? I’m coming with you! Aren’t you happy?” Alfred exclaimed happily. The expression on Arthur’s face suggested he was anything but happy.
“W-what?!”
“I’m coming with you!”
“Alfred!”
“Did I do something wrong?” Alfred asked, no longer smiling. Arthur sighed and shook his head.
“No, its really fine, Alfred. I’m glad that you’re here,” Arthur said almost wearily.
“Oh goody! Come here, let’s sit in the back!” Alfred grabbed Arthur, lifted him off his seat and dragged him to the back of the bus.
“See? Isn’t this better?” Alfred asked as he sat down on the window seat. Arthur nodded, smiling gently at seeing Alfred so happy. Alfred felt his heart leap. This was the whole reason he had gone through the whole trouble of getting his father to say ‘yes’, just so he could see Arthur. Alfred leaned closer to Arthur, placing Arthur’s face in his hands. He could see Arthur starting to protest, his face getting redder by the second. Alfred laughed. Arthur’s face had always turned a bright shade whenever Alfred tried something. Alfred leaned in to kiss Arthur when a loud voice spoke.
“Hello everyone! You guys know the drill. Don’t make too big of a ruckus while the bus driver is driving, alright?” Principal Rome boomed, as he took his seat next to a man with long blonde hair*. The blonde shook his head in disapproval at the principal.
Alfred frowned at being interrupted. He was going to go back to kissing Arthur when he heard giggling from behind him. Alfred sat up in his seat and glanced behind him.
“I was trying to tell you that earlier. I didn’t want to sit here because she was sitting here,” Arthur explained, grimacing as he glanced behind them.
“Hello Elizabeta. Hello Angelique,” Arthur said stoically. Alfred wrapped his arm around Arthur, who tensed from the motion.
“Hiya guys! I’m so excited that we’re all together again!” Elizabeta exclaimed gleefully, a glint in her eye suggesting that wasn’t the only thing she was excited about.
“Hi Alfred. Hello Kirkland,” Sechelles greeted, giving Arthur a strange look. Alfred had once been jealous of Sechelles’s relationship with Arthur but now that he and Arthur were a couple, he had relaxed a bit. Just a bit though. Seeing Arthur getting a little too friendly with anyone still made him crazy.
“Hello Sechelles and Eliza. Nice seeing you guys here,” Alfred said, his grin genuine. Sechelles grumbled something under her breath and went back to talking to Elizabeta.
Alfred turned to see a disgruntled Arthur. He laughed. Arthur was just too easy to tease. Arthur blushed crimson and was about to scold Alfred for dragging him to the back when Alfred pressed his lips against Arthur’s lips. Arthur was all too eager to kiss back.
It took the two a few minutes to realize that the bus had gotten dead quiet in the time they had spent kissing. Arthur and Alfred pulled away from each other to find that everyone in the bus was staring at them…while they made out. Even Principal Rome had turned around in his seat to stare at them, much to the disapproval of the blonde man sitting next to him. Arthur blushed a deep crimson before sinking in his chair in embarrassment. Alfred laughed.
“How is this funny, Alfred F. Jones?” Arthur mumbled quietly, his face still red. Alfred pinched Arthur’s cheek.
“You look so cute when you’re embarrassed, Iggy!” Alfred grinned. If it was possible, Arthur blushed even more. Then he turned and saw that everyone continued to gaze at them.
“Belt up, you gits! Mind your own business!” Arthur exclaimed. The others (some reluctantly) returned to their previous conversations much to Arthur’s relief.
Arthur yawned. Alfred gave Arthur a quizzical look before sliding back in his seat. He was exhausted from the flight and he was sure that Arthur was as well. Alfred warped an arm around Arthur’s shoulder before letting himself relax and fall asleep.
Alfred was awoken by the sounds of a flashing camera. He rubbed his eyes and saw Francis and Elizabeta taking pictures of them. Alfred was sure that Arthur wouldn’t like that and he didn’t want to get a lecture later.
“Hey guys, stop, alright? Arthur’s not going to like that.”
“Relax, mon ami. What Arthur doesn’t know won’t hurt him,” Francis said, grinning and smiling with Elizabeta.
“Question!” Elizabeta clamored loudly. Alfred knew that whatever questions she had in mind were best left unanswered but Alfred’s curiosity got the best of him.
“What is it?” Alfred asked, barely noticing Arthur’s head lying on his shoulder. Arthur snuggled closer to Alfred, causing Elizabeta to gawk over them.
“Well…I was wondering if you and Arthur-“
“-had sex yet?” Francis finished, thoroughly enjoying the horrified expression on Alfred’s face. He should have listened to Arthur. Sitting in the back with Elizabeta is not a good idea.
“That wasn’t what I was going to say but I want to know that, too!” Elizabeta nodded, the former glint returning to her eyes. Alfred was horrified that he would be asked such thing in public. He was also just- just maybe, slightly worried for his relationship with Arthur. Were they supposed to have sex yet? Were they moving too slowly? Was he moving too slowly? It wasn’t like he knew what to do. After all, his relationship with Arthur was the first real relationship he’d ever been in.
“Are we-“ Alfred started.
“Alfred, mon cher. The whole point of being in a relationship is to make sweet love-“
“F-Francis! Please! The last I want to hear is about Mr. Bushy-brows’s sex life,” Sechelles cried out from beside Elizabeta. Alfred had forgotten she was there.
“Did someone say ‘Francis’?” Arthur mumbled groggily, rubbing his eyes.
“Yeah, Francis is here,” Sechelles explained.
“Bullocks,” Arthur mumbled to himself. Alfred smiled at him, wrapping his arm around Arthur’s shoulders. Arthur blushed and smiled back.
“Aw! That’s so cute and hot!” Elizabeta exclaimed, taking more pictures of said couple. Arthur groaned and slumped further down his seat. Alfred laughed nervously, trying to get Francis’s words out of his head. Arthur didn’t seem to notice anything different though.
“Oy, settle down, everyone. We’re here! St. Clair Manor. You’ll be staying and working here during your internships,” Principal Rome boomed loudly, his voice easily overpowering the chatter of the students.
Alfred glanced outside and saw a beautiful large sculpted iron gate at the entrance. The gate was well over 15 feet high, perhaps even taller than that. The gate along with the walls surrounding the manor made it hard for Alfred to see the whole manor but he could still catch glimpses of it. From what Alfred could see, the manor was very large, four stories tall to say the least.
Principal Rome had left the bus for a few minutes and when he returned the gates were slowly opening to let them in. Once the bus had entered through the gate, Alfred could see that his first guess had been right; the manor was indeed a large one. It had a large front yard, a large entryway and from what Alfred could see at least 6 chimneys. It was a mixed style of Italian and French fashions of architecture. On the third floor, there was a large balcony, overlooking the estate. Alfred could sense something ominous from the manor that he couldn’t quite put his finger on it.
It was by this point that Alfred had realized that Arthur had been speaking to him, telling him of the manor’s history, design and interior. Alfred squeezed Arthur slightly, a little proud of how knowledgeable Arthur could be at times.
“Are you listening to me, Alfred?” Arthur asked, a small frown on his face. Alfred grinned.
“Yeah, keep going. It’s interesting,” Alfred encouraged. Arthur smiled and continued with his verbal tour of the place. Alfred leaned back in seat, relaxing, letting his thoughts drift as Arthur spoke. Arthur’s voice was so nice sometimes that Alfred could listen to it all day.
Alfred stared at the manor once more, this time catching a glimpse of a shadow passing by the large balcony window on the third floor. Alfred blinked and it was gone. He shrugged it off as a trick of the mind and paid it no more attention. At least, he hoped that’s what it was.
He glanced once more to see Arthur talking amiably about the house. Alfred smiled softly before returning his gaze towards the window. It was his imagination, nothing more.
-------------------------------------
A/N: lots to say about this chapter.
William is an OC and in case you guys didn’t get it, it is his mother that committed suicide in the prologue.
I decided to go with Alfred and Matthew having the same parents. I decided to name him Alexander and will be referring to him as such from now on. I did mention some snippets of their family in my previous fic but the gist of it all is that Alfred and Matthew’s mother died a few years prior to this chapter’s events and are being raised by their workaholic of a father.
I know next to nothing of French cuisine and little of Washington D.C. so I hope that explains my failure in those fields. ^^; And yes, Alfred and Matthew live in Washington D.C.
*that’s right folks. Germania 83
The mansion/manor is loosely based on the Breakers, an 11-acre estate on Ochre Point overlooking the ocean in Newport, Rhode Island. By my lame description, I’m sure you guys know that I have very limited knowledge of architecture.
Originally, this chapter was going to be longer but I decided to just end it there since it was kind of getting a little long ^^;
I’m also planning on bringing in some of Arthur’s brothers and I REALLY need with that so If anyone’s willing to help me, feel free to comment.
Author: me
Rating: PG-15
Genre: Mystery, Supernatural, Romance
Characters/Pairings: America, England, France, Canada, Seychelles, Russia, Belarus, Japan and others. US/UK, Fr/Ca, one-sided Seychelles/England, one-sided Belarus/Russia.
Summary: Gakuen Hetalia AU. Sequel to ‘Of Murder and Magic.’ The student council goes to Sinclair Mansion for a summer internship. Things go horribly wrong when Alfred and Arthur discover a mysterious portal. Will Alfred be able to discover the cause of the chaos and rescue his friends before time runs out? US x UK
Warnings: AU, human names, violence, blood, boy love, swearing, mentions of sex
Ch 1 Of Internships and Relationships
Summer was a cheerful time…for most people. For the individuals who worked in the Jones Estate, it was anything but peaceful. Summer was the time that they dreaded most, next to Thanksgiving and the various birthdays celebrated there. It was not that they disliked their boss, Mr. Jones. It was relatively peaceful when he was there. While he had left during his various business trips in the summer, chaos would ensue in the Jones household.
Mr. Jones had two sons, Alfred and Matthew, who returned every summer from their prestigious boarding school, Hetalia Academy. The boys were well behaved when their father was home, either out of fear or respect for their father. When Mr. Jones left, however, it was a different story. Mr. Jones’s sons were known to be loud, chaotic and disruptful. The younger, Matthew was not much trouble on his own but whenever Alfred was home, trouble was bound to occur.
This summer day had been no different. Alfred had woken up, loud and noisy while Matthew had tried to keep him quiet. An argument followed and that’s when chaos followed. Matthew had owned a real polar bear that his father had bought for him on one of his birthdays. The bear lived in a room of its own (the staff had made several appeals to Mr. Jones to move the bear outside in its ‘house’ but Mr. Jones had declined) next to Matthew’s. It was simple enough to care for it. It, along with the room, was cleaned while the bear was tranquilized and it was fed through a window. Normally, these measures were enough to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort but somehow while Matthew and Alfred had fought, the bear had escaped from its prison and had wandered the household, destroying everything in its path. Matthew and Alfred were too engrossed in their argument to notice anything out of the ordinary.
It was Matthew who first noticed the unusual silence in the house.
“It’s kind of quiet now, isn’t it?” Matthew asked softly, his anger forgotten. Alfred nodded, also noticing the quiet house. A loud growl disrupted the silence. Matthew jumped when he realized what had happened. Alfred was a little slow and gave Matthew a puzzled look.
“It’s Kumajirou! He’s escaped!” Matthew exclaimed, distressed that his poor bear was loose.
“W-what?! Well, go get him, Mattie!” Alfred said, shoving Matthew downstairs. The only one who could deal with the bear was Matthew and Alfred felt it was best if Matthew handled the situation. It was his bear after all.
They went downstairs, following the trail of destroyed items as they went until they spotted the white ball of fur. Kumajirou was a small polar bear, no bigger than a large teddy bear. That still didn’t deter the various staff to run away in fear.
“K-kumajirou! Come here! We don’t want father to get any angrier than he already is!” Matthew said sheepishly yet firm, urging the bear to come into his hands. The bear grunted in acknowledgement and made his way towards Matthew. Once Kumajirou was within reach, Matthew grabbed hold of his collar and slowly dragged him back to his room. He closed and made sure to lock the door this time before heading back downstairs to evaluate the damage done.
Matthew almost gaped in horror at the scene before him. Carpets were shredded, vases thrown down, tables knocked over, paintings torn, walls scraped, and pretty much everything else was in tatters. Matthew wondered how they were going to fix this in time before their father came home for dinner.
“Hey, Alfred-“
“I’m not going to help you. You’re on your own. It’s your bear and your problem,” Alfred said as he headed upstairs to his room. He had just gotten some new games that he had wanted to play. He didn’t have to time to waste on helping Mattie clean up.
Alfred had usually spent his summers doing various different activities. This week those activities included video games. Alfred loved playing video games and he was particularly excited about the new games he bought. Midway through his game Alfred received a text. After checking whom it was from, Alfred paused the game and replied to the text. It was a habit that whenever he received a text message from Arthur, he would stop what he was doing to reply. Alfred was delighted to be dating Arthur after the events of the past year. Alfred had even gone to invite Arthur to spend his summer vacation in the states. Arthur had declined, stating that he had applied to a summer internship and had gotten accepted. Alfred had told Arthur that he understood even while he hadn’t. What could be more important than spending time with his awesome boyfriend?
Alfred replied to Arthur’s text message adding an ‘I miss you’ as well. Alfred really couldn’t keep the Briton out of his thoughts for long. Alfred pressed play and continued playing his game. Nothing could distract him more than killing zombies.
Matthew knocked on the door of Alfred’s room. Noticing that Alfred was too engrossed in his game, Matthew came in and lightly tapped Alfred on the shoulder.
“What is it? This better be good. I was getting to the good part,” Alfred grumbled as he stood up to face his brother.
“Mail’s here,” was Matthew’s short curt reply. Alfred snatched the envelopes from Matthew’s hand, searching for anything with his name on it. He made a small noise of triumph once he had found a letter addressed to him. Alfred ripped open the envelope and quickly skimmed the letter inside.
Dear Mr. Alfred Jones
It is my pleasure to
Alfred didn’t even bother to read the rest. He got in! Alfred cheered. Matthew gave Alfred a puzzled look.
“I- you know, how Arthur was going on this internship this summer?” Alfred started.
“No-“
“Well, I applied and I got in! Isn’t this awesome? I get to spend the summer with Iggy!” Alfred cheered, dancing in place.
Matthew looked through the rest of the mail and found a letter addressed to himself. Matthew frowned. He didn’t remember applying to anything. Once he had finished reading the letter it all became clear.
“You sent an application for me? Without my knowledge or permission?” Matthew asked, angry.
“Hm? Well, dad wasn’t just going to let me go by myself so I thought that if you went with me-“
“That he’d be more willing to let you go?! Alfred! You could have at least told me!” Matthew seethed, enraged that Alfred could do such a thing. Then again, it shouldn’t have surprised him. Alfred had always done this sort of thing. Matthew had thought that maybe now that Alfred was dating Arthur that he would outgrow these tactics. An idea struck Matthew. Maybe he could use this to his advantage.
“You know, Alfred, once Father sees this mess he’s not going to let either one of us go,” Matthew said softly, trying to keep himself from smirking. Alfred stopped his happy dance to look at his brother.
“Say what?”
“Maybe if you help me clean up?” Matthew suggested.
“Shit.”
-----------------------------------------
Mr. Alexander Jones had a long, tedious business meeting. He was fairly relieved to be coming home but not all excited to see his two boys. It was not that he disliked them; it was just that they could be quite a handful at times.
The flight to Washington was not too turbulent. Alexander had even been able to see some clouds and the clear blue sky. It was funny how much the sky reminded him of his late wife. He sighed and opened the newspaper that he held in his briefcase and started on the crossword puzzle. He knew that would be able to occupy him before they landed.
Once the plane had made its relatively peaceful landing, Alexander had rushed to the arrivals section, getting the sense that something was horribly wrong in his household. He had gotten in to the limo that was waiting for him in the parking lot. He told the driver to step on it. He patiently waited in the backseat, continuing to read his newspaper.
When the limo pulled up in the driveway, Alfred and Matthew had just finished cleaning up. They saw their father get out of the limo, his suit immaculate as always. Alfred gave Matthew a look before heading upstairs to stash whatever inappropriate material he had laying around under his bed.
Matthew stayed downstairs to greet his father.
The door opened softly. Alexander was a little startled to see Matthew standing there. He surveyed the house once before turning to his youngest son.
“Hello Matthew. I trust that you and your brother have not caused too much trouble while I was away,” he said stoically, still looking for some disturbances. His senses never failed him.
“N-none at all!” Matthew said nervously.
“Where’s your brother?” he asked finally, not even looking at Matthew. Matthew looked down at his feet.
“Upstairs,” Matthew answered softly. A slight frown crossed Alexander’s face.
“Speak up, Matthew. It’s no wonder that you are always being overshadowed by your brother,” he said curtly, not bothering to glance back and see the hurt expression cross Matthew’s features. Matthew supposed that he should have gotten used to this as well. In some ways, Alfred and their father are very much alike. They both had long standing traits that weren’t all that pleasant to those around them. Alfred was selfish, blunt and self-centered. Matthew hoped Arthur could remedy that even if just a little. Their father was overly blunt in his opinions of others, always making his disapproval known. It was very difficult to please Alexander Jones.
Alexander walked upstairs, Matthew at his heels. Matthew hoped that Alfred had enough sense to make his room somewhat decent. Alexander didn’t even bother to knock on the door and simply walked in. He found Alfred sitting on his bed, reading a magazine. Matthew almost sighed in relief. Alfred sure cleaned up well.
“Alfred, what is wrong with you? You don’t even bother to greet your father after his long voyage,” Alexander said in that cold disapproving voice of his. Alfred looked up and gave his father a weak smile before standing up and walking towards him.
“Hello, father. How was your business trip?” Alfred asked.
“We’ll talk over dinner, come. I’m taking you and Matthew out for dinner, my treat,” Alexander said as he gestured for Alfred to come. Alfred nodded before following his father downstairs.
----------------------------------------
Alexander had taken his sons to a fancy French restaurant. Alfred would have preferred hamburgers but held his tongue. The French restaurant had a relaxed atmosphere. The façade was that of an old elaborate baroque building. Flowers and lanterns were hung on the interior, almost like Christmas lights. The rest of the customers talked jovially amongst themselves, some in French, others in languages that Alfred had heard in school. Alfred had ordered Pot-au-feu with some Coke. Matthew ordered confit de canard with club soda while their father had ordered Coq au vin with a dirty martini.
Alfred was somewhat nervous. His father always made him nervous. He glanced to his right at Matthew. Matthew nodded, trying to encourage his brother. Alfred smiled. Matthew could be so selfless sometimes. He really didn’t appreciate him much.
Alfred turned to his father. Alexander had been talking about the many events that occurred in his trip. Alfred cleared his throat, effectively silencing his father. Alfred glanced more at Matthew, who nodded, before speaking.
“Father, I have something to tell you.”
“Is it something about Kumajirou wreaking havoc in my house?” Alexander said nonchalantly, mixing the contents of his martini. Alfred blanched. Oh shit, he knew.
“I-I”
“It’s my fault, father. Please don’t blame Alfred for my mistakes,” Matthew blurted out in a rush, his face red. Alexander arched an eyebrow in question, as if skeptical of Matthew’s tale.
“I believe you,” he said simply, his actions saying otherwise. Alfred started to feel the thick tension in the atmosphere.
“I-“
“Alfred and I have been accepted into an internship program over in Vermont for the summer. We wish to attend, w-with your permission, of course, father,” Matthew said softly yet resolutely. Alexander said nothing at first, barely acknowledging the statement. He started to mix his martini again.
“And you think that I would simply allow you to leave after all the damage that has been done to my house? Do you?” Alexander said, his voice slightly lower than normal. Matthew bowed his head in shame. Alfred gripped the arms of his chair.
“I must say that I am surprised that you would apply for such a program without my coaxing, Alfred.” Alfred and Matthew said nothing, the tense atmosphere growing by the minute.
“Why would you do such a thing, Alfred?” Alfred gulped once. This was it. Moment of truth or better yet, time to lie. Alfred knew his father would never approve of his applying the internship in the first place simply because he wanted to spend more time with his new boyfriend.
“I was thinking of the future, father. Something like this would look really good on my college applications,” Alfred said simply all the while hoping that his father would believe his lie. It was a good lie he had to admit. Surely his father would buy it.
Alexander stopped playing with his martini and looked straight at his son’s eyes. Alfred tried to keep himself from squirming from his father’s strong gaze. After inspecting Alfred for a moment, Alexander lowered his gaze. Alfred almost sighed in relief.
“What’s the real reason?” Crap. Alfred tried to think of something else to say before Matthew beat him to it.
“The truth is that he wants to impress you. Father, I respect you but really, you are a difficult man to please. Alfred just wanted to do something that would impress you. That’s all,” Matthew said warmly, adding a small smile as an afterthought. Alfred almost grinned at Matthew’s words. Genius! It wasn’t a complete lie but it was certainly the farthest thing in his mind when he had applied.
Alexander nodded and then got up from his chair. “Excuse me for a moment. I need to go refresh myself.” Alfred and Matthew followed his retreating figure with their eyes. Once he was out of ear’s reach, they sighed in relief.
“Good thinking, Mattie. I don’t think I could have pulled it off without you,” Alfred grinned.
“Yeah, but we’re not in the clear yet. Father still has to say yes,” Matthew said, starting to chew on his lower lip.
“Relax! We’ll be fine. Did you see him? He completely believed your sob story,” Alfred said, poking his food with his fork.
“I guess. I really can’t believe you would do all this for Arthur-“
“Who’s Arthur?” Alexander asked as he rejoined his sons. Alfred and Matthew almost jumped at the question.
“He’s Alfred’s boy…” Matthew began. Once realizing what he had said, Matthew gave a small gasp, covering his mouth with his hands. Alfred slapped himself on the forehead. Alexander arched his eyebrow in puzzlement. He looked to Alfred for confirmation.
“My boyfriend,” Alfred explained, slumping in his chair, thinking that there was no way that their father would let them go now. Alexander almost crushed his martini glass in barely concealed rage.
“Boyfriend, you said?” Alexander said through gritted teeth. He drank the rest of his martini in one gulp. When he had finished, he called the waiter over and asked for another martini. Matthew and Alfred waited in silence. When Alfred had enough nerve, he spoke.
“Pops, I know that you’re angry and all but I think that you’ll really like Arthur. He’s kind of like you in some ways. I mean, he works real hard to get what he wants and he doesn’t take shit from people and junk-“
“Alfred, language,” Alexander said while massaging his temple.
“-and he’s…you just need to give him a chance! You’ll love him once you meet him. He’s everything you wanted in a son,” Alfred said the last part softly. Alexander sighed.
“Fine.”
“Huh?”
“You can go. Both of you can go,” Alexander said curtly, his eyes closed in frustration.
“Really? You mean it? Thanks, pops! You won’t regret it! I promise!” Alfred exclaimed in joy, smiling widely.
“On one condition.”
Alfred smile dimmed but did not disappear completely. “What?”
“Promise me that you’ll take care of your brother. Anything happens to him and it’s your head I’ll be after.” Alfred nodded enthusiastically before cheering. He smiled and glanced towards his brother. Matthew smiled back, happy for his brother.
Alexander opened his eyes and saw the great smile on Alfred’s face. It was times like these that Alexander wished that his wife were still alive. Alfred reminded him so much of her. He glanced at the busy streets, watching the various people walking around amiably. He glanced once at his youngest child and saw the smile on his face. He closed his eyes once more and hoped that he wasn’t making a big mistake.
-------------------------------------
Alfred had awoken late on the rendezvous day at Hetalia Academy. Apparently, Principal Rome had sponsored the event and was offering those accepted into the internship program a means of transportation. Alfred had wanted to meet and surprise Arthur there. But in order for them to get to Hetalia Academy, they would have to take a flight to New York.
The only reason Alfred had even gotten up was by Matthew’s insistent prodding. They had made it to their flight on time and barely caught the bus.
Alfred was excited to see the look on Arthur’s face. Arthur would surely be glad to see him! Alfred almost dropped his bags when he saw Arthur. Arthur was sitting next to Gilbert Beilschmidt and having a normal conversation with him. Alfred felt himself grow angry at the action. Arthur was enjoying himself talking to someone else, Gilbert of all people. Alfred would have preferred Sechelles to Gilbert.
Alfred made his way to Arthur.
“Hiya, Iggy. It’s nice to see that you’re enjoying yourself,” Alfred whispered in Arthur’s ear.
“Al-alfred! What are you doing here? And don’t startle me like that!” Arthur screeched, surprise evident on his face. Alfred grinned at Arthur before turning to frown at Gilbert.
“Guess what? I’m coming with you! Aren’t you happy?” Alfred exclaimed happily. The expression on Arthur’s face suggested he was anything but happy.
“W-what?!”
“I’m coming with you!”
“Alfred!”
“Did I do something wrong?” Alfred asked, no longer smiling. Arthur sighed and shook his head.
“No, its really fine, Alfred. I’m glad that you’re here,” Arthur said almost wearily.
“Oh goody! Come here, let’s sit in the back!” Alfred grabbed Arthur, lifted him off his seat and dragged him to the back of the bus.
“See? Isn’t this better?” Alfred asked as he sat down on the window seat. Arthur nodded, smiling gently at seeing Alfred so happy. Alfred felt his heart leap. This was the whole reason he had gone through the whole trouble of getting his father to say ‘yes’, just so he could see Arthur. Alfred leaned closer to Arthur, placing Arthur’s face in his hands. He could see Arthur starting to protest, his face getting redder by the second. Alfred laughed. Arthur’s face had always turned a bright shade whenever Alfred tried something. Alfred leaned in to kiss Arthur when a loud voice spoke.
“Hello everyone! You guys know the drill. Don’t make too big of a ruckus while the bus driver is driving, alright?” Principal Rome boomed, as he took his seat next to a man with long blonde hair*. The blonde shook his head in disapproval at the principal.
Alfred frowned at being interrupted. He was going to go back to kissing Arthur when he heard giggling from behind him. Alfred sat up in his seat and glanced behind him.
“I was trying to tell you that earlier. I didn’t want to sit here because she was sitting here,” Arthur explained, grimacing as he glanced behind them.
“Hello Elizabeta. Hello Angelique,” Arthur said stoically. Alfred wrapped his arm around Arthur, who tensed from the motion.
“Hiya guys! I’m so excited that we’re all together again!” Elizabeta exclaimed gleefully, a glint in her eye suggesting that wasn’t the only thing she was excited about.
“Hi Alfred. Hello Kirkland,” Sechelles greeted, giving Arthur a strange look. Alfred had once been jealous of Sechelles’s relationship with Arthur but now that he and Arthur were a couple, he had relaxed a bit. Just a bit though. Seeing Arthur getting a little too friendly with anyone still made him crazy.
“Hello Sechelles and Eliza. Nice seeing you guys here,” Alfred said, his grin genuine. Sechelles grumbled something under her breath and went back to talking to Elizabeta.
Alfred turned to see a disgruntled Arthur. He laughed. Arthur was just too easy to tease. Arthur blushed crimson and was about to scold Alfred for dragging him to the back when Alfred pressed his lips against Arthur’s lips. Arthur was all too eager to kiss back.
It took the two a few minutes to realize that the bus had gotten dead quiet in the time they had spent kissing. Arthur and Alfred pulled away from each other to find that everyone in the bus was staring at them…while they made out. Even Principal Rome had turned around in his seat to stare at them, much to the disapproval of the blonde man sitting next to him. Arthur blushed a deep crimson before sinking in his chair in embarrassment. Alfred laughed.
“How is this funny, Alfred F. Jones?” Arthur mumbled quietly, his face still red. Alfred pinched Arthur’s cheek.
“You look so cute when you’re embarrassed, Iggy!” Alfred grinned. If it was possible, Arthur blushed even more. Then he turned and saw that everyone continued to gaze at them.
“Belt up, you gits! Mind your own business!” Arthur exclaimed. The others (some reluctantly) returned to their previous conversations much to Arthur’s relief.
Arthur yawned. Alfred gave Arthur a quizzical look before sliding back in his seat. He was exhausted from the flight and he was sure that Arthur was as well. Alfred warped an arm around Arthur’s shoulder before letting himself relax and fall asleep.
Alfred was awoken by the sounds of a flashing camera. He rubbed his eyes and saw Francis and Elizabeta taking pictures of them. Alfred was sure that Arthur wouldn’t like that and he didn’t want to get a lecture later.
“Hey guys, stop, alright? Arthur’s not going to like that.”
“Relax, mon ami. What Arthur doesn’t know won’t hurt him,” Francis said, grinning and smiling with Elizabeta.
“Question!” Elizabeta clamored loudly. Alfred knew that whatever questions she had in mind were best left unanswered but Alfred’s curiosity got the best of him.
“What is it?” Alfred asked, barely noticing Arthur’s head lying on his shoulder. Arthur snuggled closer to Alfred, causing Elizabeta to gawk over them.
“Well…I was wondering if you and Arthur-“
“-had sex yet?” Francis finished, thoroughly enjoying the horrified expression on Alfred’s face. He should have listened to Arthur. Sitting in the back with Elizabeta is not a good idea.
“That wasn’t what I was going to say but I want to know that, too!” Elizabeta nodded, the former glint returning to her eyes. Alfred was horrified that he would be asked such thing in public. He was also just- just maybe, slightly worried for his relationship with Arthur. Were they supposed to have sex yet? Were they moving too slowly? Was he moving too slowly? It wasn’t like he knew what to do. After all, his relationship with Arthur was the first real relationship he’d ever been in.
“Are we-“ Alfred started.
“Alfred, mon cher. The whole point of being in a relationship is to make sweet love-“
“F-Francis! Please! The last I want to hear is about Mr. Bushy-brows’s sex life,” Sechelles cried out from beside Elizabeta. Alfred had forgotten she was there.
“Did someone say ‘Francis’?” Arthur mumbled groggily, rubbing his eyes.
“Yeah, Francis is here,” Sechelles explained.
“Bullocks,” Arthur mumbled to himself. Alfred smiled at him, wrapping his arm around Arthur’s shoulders. Arthur blushed and smiled back.
“Aw! That’s so cute and hot!” Elizabeta exclaimed, taking more pictures of said couple. Arthur groaned and slumped further down his seat. Alfred laughed nervously, trying to get Francis’s words out of his head. Arthur didn’t seem to notice anything different though.
“Oy, settle down, everyone. We’re here! St. Clair Manor. You’ll be staying and working here during your internships,” Principal Rome boomed loudly, his voice easily overpowering the chatter of the students.
Alfred glanced outside and saw a beautiful large sculpted iron gate at the entrance. The gate was well over 15 feet high, perhaps even taller than that. The gate along with the walls surrounding the manor made it hard for Alfred to see the whole manor but he could still catch glimpses of it. From what Alfred could see, the manor was very large, four stories tall to say the least.
Principal Rome had left the bus for a few minutes and when he returned the gates were slowly opening to let them in. Once the bus had entered through the gate, Alfred could see that his first guess had been right; the manor was indeed a large one. It had a large front yard, a large entryway and from what Alfred could see at least 6 chimneys. It was a mixed style of Italian and French fashions of architecture. On the third floor, there was a large balcony, overlooking the estate. Alfred could sense something ominous from the manor that he couldn’t quite put his finger on it.
It was by this point that Alfred had realized that Arthur had been speaking to him, telling him of the manor’s history, design and interior. Alfred squeezed Arthur slightly, a little proud of how knowledgeable Arthur could be at times.
“Are you listening to me, Alfred?” Arthur asked, a small frown on his face. Alfred grinned.
“Yeah, keep going. It’s interesting,” Alfred encouraged. Arthur smiled and continued with his verbal tour of the place. Alfred leaned back in seat, relaxing, letting his thoughts drift as Arthur spoke. Arthur’s voice was so nice sometimes that Alfred could listen to it all day.
Alfred stared at the manor once more, this time catching a glimpse of a shadow passing by the large balcony window on the third floor. Alfred blinked and it was gone. He shrugged it off as a trick of the mind and paid it no more attention. At least, he hoped that’s what it was.
He glanced once more to see Arthur talking amiably about the house. Alfred smiled softly before returning his gaze towards the window. It was his imagination, nothing more.
-------------------------------------
A/N: lots to say about this chapter.
William is an OC and in case you guys didn’t get it, it is his mother that committed suicide in the prologue.
I decided to go with Alfred and Matthew having the same parents. I decided to name him Alexander and will be referring to him as such from now on. I did mention some snippets of their family in my previous fic but the gist of it all is that Alfred and Matthew’s mother died a few years prior to this chapter’s events and are being raised by their workaholic of a father.
I know next to nothing of French cuisine and little of Washington D.C. so I hope that explains my failure in those fields. ^^; And yes, Alfred and Matthew live in Washington D.C.
*that’s right folks. Germania 83
The mansion/manor is loosely based on the Breakers, an 11-acre estate on Ochre Point overlooking the ocean in Newport, Rhode Island. By my lame description, I’m sure you guys know that I have very limited knowledge of architecture.
Originally, this chapter was going to be longer but I decided to just end it there since it was kind of getting a little long ^^;
I’m also planning on bringing in some of Arthur’s brothers and I REALLY need with that so If anyone’s willing to help me, feel free to comment.