Chapter 5
It was now Winter Break, and a surprising number of students from the three schools had chosen to remain at Durmstrang. However, there were a few who were compelled by their parents to return home. One morning, Albus noticed a distressed Beauxbatons girl crying over a letter she had received from her father.
Witnessing her distress to have to go back home and not being able to attend the ball made Albus contemplate his own situation. The demands of the school were taking their toll on him, and Merlin forbid he ever got a break.. Unfortunately, he would have to wait until Easter for that respite to arrive.
As Albus walked through the halls of Durmstrang, he couldn't help but notice the stark contrast in Christmas decorations compared to Hogwarts. Durmstrang's adornments exuded a sense of darkness, reflecting the school's focus on the Dark Arts. It struck him as peculiar, considering the festive nature of the holiday season.
"Merlin’s beard, isn't this supposed to be Christmas?" Elphias exclaimed, gazing up at the sombre decorations in the corridors with a hint of disbelief. "It looks more like a funeral or something."
Horace agreed, nodding his head in agreement. "Yeah, but I must say, at least the Great Hall looks impressive for the ball," he remarked, observing the diligent efforts of the Durmstrang professors who were working tirelessly to prepare the venue. They were quick to jump any student daring to enter. Albus gulped, his apprehension growing as he contemplated the upcoming responsibility of opening the ball.
He noticed that he hadn't interacted much with Celeste, their interactions mostly limited to champion-related matters. She seemed busy with her own schoolwork and friends, leaving little opportunity for them to connect on a personal level.
However, as Albus was passing by, Celeste unexpectedly pulled him into an empty classroom. With no one else present, she closed the door and leaned against the table, motioning for Albus to join her. Intrigued and slightly nervous, he cautiously took a seat instead, wondering what prompted this sudden private conversation.
"Albus, I need to have a quick discussion with you, so sorry it was so sudden," Celeste began, her tone calm and composed, no hint of urgency at all.
"Yeah? What is it?" Albus replied, his gaze fixed on Celeste.
She smirked down at him, her height accentuating her confident demeanour. She was so tall compared to Albus, perhaps her Veela-like qualities, which only added to his intrigue. "Do you like Gellert Grindelwald by any chance?" she asked, her voice laced with a hint of playfulness.
Albus's eyes widened, and a blush spread across his face. His instinctive response was to deny it, but the truth lingered in the depths of his thoughts. "W-What! No...?" he stammered, his voice betraying his attempt to deceive.
"Hah! I knew it, you're blushing the exact same shade as the Quaffle!" Celeste laughed. "Now I can collect those Galleons..."
Albus raised an eyebrow, his lips curling into a smile. "Well, if you're betting on me and Gellert Grindelwald’s relationship, I hope you haven't placed a hefty sum," he replied, matching her playful tone. "Because I have every intention of making this tournament unforgettable."
“Oh, really? Albus Dumbledore with those twenty nine points?” she said, smirking. “Yeah, I might have to quit on that one.”
–
Dinner that night was a complete disaster. The Yule Ball decorations were still not fully prepared even though they worked the whole entire day, and the professors appeared visibly frustrated with the chaotic scene at the grand doors. Amidst the commotion, a voice boomed, calling out the names of the three champions.
Albus exchanged glances with Celeste and Gellert, their expressions mirroring his own surprise. The crowd quickly parted, forming a pathway that led Albus towards the entrance. Whispers filled the air as he walked, eyes following his every move.
As Albus and the other two entered the Great Hall, the doors immediately closed and they found themselves in the midst of an impressive gathering. The headmasters of the participating schools, along with notable members from the Bulgarian and British Ministries, were assembled.
Albus couldn't help but notice the icy gaze of the Beauxbatons headmaster directed towards him, but he quickly averted his eyes, focusing on the stunning surroundings instead.
The Great Hall had undergone a magnificent transformation. It surpassed anything Albus had seen before, even Hogwarts couldn’t have done this. The air was filled with a magical aura, and his breath caught at the sight before him. Delicate icicles adorned the ceiling, meticulously arranged to form a grand archway. The intricate patterns and symmetrical designs left Albus in awe, a testament to the artistry and skill that went into its creation.
"Well, do you three like it? It all comes down to the champions’ opinions," the Charms professor asked with a warm smile directed at them.
Albus glanced at Celeste and Gellert, both of whom seemed equally impressed by the grandeur of the decorations. He couldn't help but smile in response to the professor's question.
They all complimented the decorations eagerly, still looking around.
The Charms professor beamed with satisfaction at their words. "We thank you. Your approval means a great deal to us.” With a flick of their wand, a subtle wave of magic swept through the hall, transforming the enchanting Yule Ball decor back into its familiar state.
“Well, you three better get to your tables quickly.” the Beauxbatons headmaster warned with a thick French accent.
They let everyone come in to finally have dinner, their anticipation palpable as they scanned the Great Hall for the promised grandeur of the decorations. However, to their disappointment, the enchanting displays had vanished, leaving behind a rather ordinary setting. It seemed that the magical ambiance would only be revealed once the event officially commenced.
Amidst the murmurs of confusion and slight disappointment, Albus watched as Elphias and Horace hurriedly made their way to the round table they usually occupied. They settled down next to him, their expressions mirroring a mix of excitement and curiosity.
"What happened to the decorations?" Elphias asked with a hint of disappointment in his voice. "I was looking forward to seeing the magical transformation."
Horace nodded in agreement, his brows furrowing. "Yeah, it's a shame. I thought the Great Hall would be filled with enchantment and wonder."
Albus sighed. "I guess they want to keep the surprise until the event officially starts."
"You saw it, Albus! How is it?" Elphias leaned in eagerly.
Albus couldn't help but smirk, his excitement bubbling beneath the surface. "Oh, it was absolutely beautiful," he replied, his voice filled with admiration. "You'll see for yourself, Elphias. Durmstrang certainly knows how to unleash their artistic side when they want to."
Horace's eyes widened with curiosity. "Really? I can't wait to see it!”
Albus smiled at them and jumped as food appeared on the round table, that never got old to him. He eagerly reached for various delicacies, piling them onto his plate with a mix of anticipation and hunger.
There were platters of roasted meats, steaming bowls of hearty stews, and an array of colourful vegetables cooked to perfection. The tantalising scent of freshly baked bread filled the air, tempting Albus to grab a warm roll and savour its softness.
Albus observed Horace's gaze shifting towards Elphias, a hint of curiosity flickering in his eyes. He wondered what might have caught his friend's attention, but he didn't dwell on it too much.
“What do you think is bothering him?” Horace whispered in his ear.
Albus looked over at Elphias, who appeared moody and distant. He pondered for a moment before responding, "I'm not entirely sure, but I think it might have to do with the kiss. I didn't handle it well, and I backed away and ran from him. And then, I made matters worse by saying it was my second kiss."
Horace raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Second kiss? You never told me about these things! When was the first?"
Albus hesitated, his cheeks flushing slightly, thoughts on Gellert. "About a week ago," he replied evasively. "But the point is, I hurt Elphias, and now we're in this awkward situation."
“Is that the reason why everyone was talking about you the other day? And how I could not find Elphias at all?” Horace asked, his curiosity piqued.
Albus nodded, feeling a mix of guilt and vulnerability. "Yes, that's probably why. I didn’t even realise he had feelings for me."
“Well, I knew about it.” Horace frowned, a concerned expression crossing his face. "You should talk to him, Albus. Clear the air and apologise if you need to. It's not worth letting your friendship suffer because of a silly misunderstanding."
Albus looked at Horace, his eyes widening in realisation. "Wait, you knew that Elphias had feelings for me?!"
Horace rolled his eyes and let out an exasperated sigh, looking down at his plate. "Are you that oblivious, Albus?"
Albus chuckled nervously, scratching the back of his head. "I guess so. I never really thought about it that way. I always saw us as close friends, but I didn't realise he felt something more."
Horace shook his head, a hint of amusement in his expression. "Well, it's about time you noticed, all it took was a stupid kiss that didn’t go as planned. Elphias has been quite obvious about it for decades it seems like, especially to those of us who are observant."
With that, he left the table, quickly grabbing Elphias' arm and dragging him away with him.
Albus watched them go, a mixture of anticipation and nervousness coursing through him. The sudden attention from the others at the table pulled him back to the present moment. They were eager to chat with him now that he was alone.
Engaging in conversations with his fellow students, Albus tried to focus on the lively chatter around him. He smiled, laughed, and shared stories, but his mind kept drifting back to Elphias.
The minutes ticked by, and Albus found himself growing increasingly restless. He excused himself from the table, citing the need to use the restroom, and discreetly made his way towards the direction Horace and Elphias had gone.
Instead, as Albus made his way through the crowded hallways, lost in his thoughts, he suddenly collided with someone. Before he could stumble and fall, a strong and masculine hand reached out to steady him. Albus looked up, and there stood Gellert, his eyes sparkling.
"Hi again, liebling," Gellert said with a smirk, using the endearment that never failed to send a shiver down Albus' spine, and pulling him up to his level, not letting go.
Albus blinked in surprise, momentarily forgetting his intention to find Elphias. The proximity of Gellert, his warm and broad hand still resting on Albus' arm, caused a flurry of emotions to surge within him. Part of him wanted to pull away and continue his search, but another part couldn't help but be drawn to Gellert's captivating presence.
"Hi," Albus replied breathlessly, smiling, his voice betraying a mixture of uncertainty and excitement. "I didn't expect to run into you here."
Gellert's smirk widened, and he leaned in closer, his breath brushing against Albus' ear. "Fate has a way of bringing us together, doesn't it?"
"Yeah, I guess so," Albus said, a smile playing on his lips. He enjoyed Gellert's company and wished they could continue their conversation here in this crowded corridor, but his loyalty to his friends beckoned him elsewhere. "Sorry, I can't talk for long. I have to go meet someone."
"Yeah, I understand," Gellert replied, masking his sour mood with a polite smile. He couldn't deny the pang of jealousy that flickered within him at the mention of Albus meeting someone else, likely Elphias. After all, he had made it perfectly clear to Elphias that he didn't want him interfering with what's his.
"No worries, liebling," Gellert continued. "I'll see you at the ball, won't I?"
Albus nodded, a mix of excitement and apprehension swirling in his eyes. "Yes, of course. I'm looking forward to it."
And with that, they parted ways, with Gellert unable to tear his gaze away from Albus' departing form. A mix of emotions swirled within Gellert, including longing, admiration, and possessiveness. Gellert felt a tinge of jealousy, an irrational desire to claim Albus as his own, he knew that Elphias Doge liked the boy, and he understood why. Albus possessed a unique charm and charisma that seemed to captivate everyone who crossed his path.
The intensity of Gellert's feelings took him by surprise. He had always prided himself on his independence and disregard for emotional attachments. But something about Albus Dumbledore had ignited a fire within him that he couldn't ignore. He yearned to be the one who held Albus close, who shared in his dreams and ambitions, who could call him his own.
He sighed and moved along to where his other friends were outside. Vinda, Astrid, Ernst, Isolde, and a couple more were sitting at their usual meeting area that was in a literal cave, engrossed in a lively conversation. They all looked up at his approaching silhouette and greeted him with warm smiles and friendly banter. He smiled back at all of them in a way that didn't match his face. Gellert always had a knack for unsettling smiles, like a rare occurrence that happened only once a blood moon.
"Hmmm?" Astrid nudged him as he sat down, noticing the smile on his face that quickly vanished. "That was a rare sight. What, did you kill some random first year?"
Gellert's mismatched eyes met with her grey ones, a flicker of mischief and darkness dancing within them. "It's nothing," he replied, his thoughts still lingering on Albus. "Although, I must admit, the idea of taking out a sixth year does have its appeal," he added, his tone dripping with more darkness, his mind drifting to Elphias Doge.
He looked up at their intrigued expressions, and Ernst shook his head knowingly before offering a smile. "Mate, if you keep this up, you're going to be thrown out and have your wand snapped in half."
Gellert's gaze met Ernst's, a dark aura enveloping him, but he couldn't help but smirk. "You expect me not to find the Elder Wand after mine gets snapped?"
Astrid pointed at Gellert, her voice filled with amusement. "See, I told you he's delusional."
Vinda chuckled, her quill moving swiftly across the parchment. "Well, as long as he's entertaining us, I'm all for it."
Astrid glanced at Vinda's small handwriting and raised an eyebrow. "Are you seriously writing the essay for Dark Arts? Isn't that due once break's over?"
Vinda dipped her quill in ink once more, her expression nonchalant. "Sooner than later is better for me. I tend to forget about these things."
"That's exactly why I have an agenda," Astrid replied.
Back in the snow-filled Durmstrang courtyard, Elphias and Horace sought a secluded spot where they could speak without eavesdropping. The sound of their footsteps was muffled by the thick blanket of snow as they settled down on a stone bench. Horace's voice carried genuine concern as Elphias ranted about what happened, and how he forced a kiss upon Albus, "Do you truly love Albus that much?"
Elphias let out a sigh, his breath visible in the crisp winter air. His gaze drifted towards the cloudy sky, searching for answers. "Yes," he replied softly, his voice tinged with a mix of longing and uncertainty. "It's hard to put into words, Horace. I admire him so much, and my heart aches with both love and envy, I don’t know what. He seems to effortlessly shine, while I feel like a shadow in comparison even though I’m right beside him.”
Horace placed a comforting hand on Elphias' shoulder, his eyes filled with empathy and shaking his head. "You're not a shadow, Elphias.”
Elphias looked up at Horace, frustration etched on his face, tears gaining up. "Are you certain? Because everything I do to try to gain his attention, he is completely oblivious to it. Grindelwald, that prat , just showed up in our lives and kissed my best friend, and Albus liked it! Whilst he didn't like my kiss! How is that fair?"
Horace paused for a moment, choosing his words carefully. "Elphias, I understand how you feel, but we can't change the past. What we can do is learn from it and move forward."
Elphias sighed, the weight of disappointment heavy upon him, not realising Horace’s building up fury. "I know, I know. It's just frustrating to see someone like Grindelwald sweep in and capture Albus's attention so effortlessly. I've been by his side all this time, and yet he never saw me that way."
"Well, maybe you should have kissed him sooner, or maybe nobody should have kissed him at all!" Horace exclaimed, frustration now evident in his voice. "He's been so busy lately, and everyone is making his life tougher by giving him attention. It's obviously overwhelming for him and not one person in the three schools seems to notice but me! Have you seen those eyebags?"
Elphias sighed, running a hand through his hair. Horace had always been the perceptive one, able to see things before others could. Albus had indeed been overworked lately, and it weighed heavily on his friends' hearts. Sometimes, when they entered his room, they would find him slumped in a chair, hunched over his desk, fast asleep with open ink bottles and a quill resting on the parchment in front of him, his auburn hair a mess.
"It breaks my heart to see him in such a state," Elphias admitted, his voice filled with concern, wondering where Albus was right now. "He's pushing himself too hard, trying to balance his responsibilities and the expectations placed upon him. We need to find a way to help him lighten his load."
–
That Wednesday, Albus yearned for a brief respite from the constant watchful eyes within the castle walls. He longed for solitude, a day where he could wander undisturbed. In the early hours of the morning, around 4:50, he hastily scribbled a note on his desk and slung his bag full of books over his shoulder, determined to venture out into the blizzard.
With the castle still immersed in slumber, Albus seized the opportunity to slip away unnoticed. His footsteps muffled by the thick layer of snow, he skillfully cast wordless warming spells upon himself, shielding against the bitter cold. Taking cautious glances around the deserted grounds, he felt a surge of relief when his eyes landed upon a cave nestled beneath the bridge of the school.
Curiously, he noted the presence of the same triangular symbol from back by the library in the vicinity, lending an eerie aura to the place.
He shrugged it off and went to sit down on the huge rock, enlightening flames nearby with his wand to keep himself warm. The crackling fire danced and cast flickering shadows on the surrounding area, creating an enchanting ambiance.
He lost himself in his book, "History of Durmstrang Institute." The hours slipped away as he immersed himself in the intricate details of the renowned magical institution. Ignoring the rumblings of hunger and the howling winds outside, skipping breakfast and lunch, Albus delved deeper into the secrets of Durmstrang, eager to uncover the mysteries that lay within its ancient walls.
As the blizzard raged on, the flickering flames nearby provided the only source of warmth in the desolate cave. Albus's concentration remained unbroken, his mind captivated by the tales of legendary dark wizards and extraordinary feats. The pages turned eagerly as he devoured each chapter, the knowledge seeping into his very being. He felt peaceful and at rest for once this school year,
But then he heard faint voices echoing from outside the cave, getting closer and closer.
–
Even though Gellert had declared that their next meeting would be at the ball, he couldn't resist the temptation to watch Albus from a distance and revel in his beauty. The memories of comforting a teary-eyed Albus and of their kiss in the snow lingered in Gellert's mind, fueling his longing for the ginger-haired boy’s attention.
During meal times in the dark and grand Great Hall, Gellert knew that Albus would be seated at the same table in the corner with his friends. It was a routine that made it convenient for Gellert to observe him discreetly, his eyes fixed on Albus throughout the entire meal. However, Albus remained unaware of Gellert's intense scrutiny, engrossed in conversation with Doge that for some reason annoyed him.
In the mornings, as Gellert entered through the stone doors, his gaze automatically sought out Albus at that table. The sight of Albus sitting there stirred a mix of emotions within Gellert that he couldn’t quite understand.
But this morning, Albus was conspicuously absent from his usual spot at the table. It felt eerily reminiscent of the time when Gellert's liebe had fallen ill for two weeks, and Elphias and Horace showed little concern. Gellert couldn't help but feel a pang of bitterness, considering they were to be Albus' closest friends that knew where he was and Gellert did not.
As Gellert joined his own group of friends during breakfast, he couldn't shake the nagging worry that tugged at his heart. He tried to engage in their conversations, laughter punctuating the air around them, but his mind kept drifting back to Albus. Why was he absent? Was he feeling unwell? Or had something else captured his attention?
Unable to bear the uncertainty any longer, Gellert excused himself from the table and discreetly made his way through the bustling crowd. He navigated the corridors of the school, searching for any sign of Albus or clues to his whereabouts.
After what seemed like an eternity of fruitless searching, Gellert's determination wavered, and he leaned against a nearby wall, frustration etched on his face. Just as he was about to give up, a familiar voice echoed through the deserted corridor.
“Gellert!”
"Hey, Ernst," Gellert replied, his voice lacking its usual enthusiasm. He couldn't hide the weariness in his tone, the weight of his thoughts weighing him down.
Ernst studied Gellert for a moment, concern evident in his eyes. "You seem preoccupied. Is everything alright?"
Gellert sighed again, running a hand through his hair. "Could you tell the others to meet at our usual spot today after lunch? I need to get away from the castle for a bit, and I need company."
Ernst nodded understandingly. "Of course, Gellert. I'll gather everyone and let them know."
Gellert offered a small smile of gratitude.
With that, Ernst left to fulfil Gellert's request, leaving Gellert alone with his thoughts once more.
–
Ernst gathered all of their friends during lunch and explained to them that Gellert wanted to meet at the cave. They agreed to meet up after lunch and made their way towards the cave through the blizzard.
As they walked along the winding path, Vinda voiced her curiosity. "Why does Gellert want to meet us? I was hoping to spend the afternoon practising Quidditch with Ivan."
Ernst shrugged, his wand illuminating their path. "I'm not sure. I don’t know how you even play Quidditch in this weather…”
The group reached the cave and entered cautiously, the flickering light from their wands casting eerie shadows on the rocky walls.
Once they entered their hideout, they gasped in surprise when they saw not Gellert but Albus Dumbledore sitting on the dirty old rock. "Dumbledore!" Ernst exclaimed, his voice filled with astonishment at the beloved Hogwarts champion.
Albus's cheeks turned a shade of red as he stammered, closing his book and standing up quickly and awkwardly. "Uhhh... yes, I've been here - I didn’t know you guys were gonna come here…!"
Astrid rolled her eyes and sighed. "You've been sitting on that dirty old rock all day? Merlin's beard, champion, we'll show you what the hideout actually looks like." She waved her wand in a sweeping motion, and the cave transformed before their eyes. The rugged walls were adorned with tapestries, the cold and rocky floor became covered in plush rugs, and comfortable cushions and armchairs appeared, inviting them to sit. Desks and shelves materialised, filled with books and magical artefacts, and a warm fireplace crackled with comforting flames.
Albus looked at the transformed hideout in awe, but soon a wave of self-doubt washed over him. "Oh! I'm sorry," he stammered, feeling like an intruder. "This is really great and all, but you guys probably don't want me here anyway. I should go."
As he turned to leave, trying to put stuff back in his bag, Albus took a few steps backward, only to bump into someone behind him. Startled, he quickly regained his balance and turned around to see who it was.
–
Since it was now the winter break and classes were on hiatus, Gellert found himself growing increasingly bored with each passing day. As the lunch hour approached, Gellert's anticipation grew, eager for a change of scenery and some much-needed excitement. All he thought about was Albus for the time being.
When the time finally came, Gellert roused himself from his dormitory bed, casting a cursory glance around the room before making his way towards the grand doors that led outside. The corridors were unusually quiet, with most students scattered throughout the castle or engaged in various holiday activities. Gellert relished the solitude, enjoying the brief respite from the usual bustling atmosphere of Durmstrang.
He tugged his fur cape closer to him as he walked out of the castle and toward the underside of the bridge, his mind preoccupied with thoughts of Albus. Before he revealed himself, he heard a faint but unmistakable voice, filled with self-doubt. "...but you guys probably don't want me here anyway. I should go."
Gellert's heart sank at Albus's words. He knew it was Albus who was speaking, and he couldn't bear the thought of Albus feeling unwanted or out of place. Without hesitation, Gellert swiftly moved to the entrance of the hideout, positioning himself in a spot where he knew Albus would end up as he backed away.
Just as Gellert anticipated, Albus bumped into him, bag dropping to the floor, caught off guard by the unexpected encounter. Instinctively, Gellert reached out and firmly grasped Albus's arm, preventing him from losing his balance and falling. "I... I'm sorry. I didn't mean to..." Albus's voice trailed off as he realised who it was.
Standing before him was Gellert. "Seems like you have a habit of bumping into people, Albus," Gellert remarked, a playful glint in his eyes. Their eyes met in that brief moment of contact, and Gellert's grip on Albus's arm tightened ever so slightly.
Astrid and Vinda quickly went over to collect Albus' scattered bag, ink spilling across the floor. Albus appreciated their gesture and turned his attention back to Gellert, trying to maintain composure despite the heat rising to his cheeks.
Gellert's smug expression lingered, a hint of amusement sparkling in his eyes as he observed Albus. "You're a bit scattered today." he chuckled.
Albus cleared his throat, attempting to regain his composure, fidgeting with his hands awkwardly. "Yes, well... It's been quite a day."
Gellert's gaze softened, his voice laced with understanding. "I can imagine, I haven’t seen you all day.”
Albus nodded, feeling a mixture of gratitude and nervousness. As he watched Astrid and Vinda returning with his bag, he couldn't help but appreciate their thoughtful gestures. With a shy smile, he took his bag from them and turned back to Gellert.
–
"You think you're so cool?" Elphias sneered, his voice dripping with disdain. Gellert and Elphias found themselves in a deserted corridor, the tension palpable between them. It was a familiar scene, reminiscent of their previous encounter. Elphias seemed determined to challenge Gellert once again.
Gellert arched an eyebrow, a smug smile tugging at the corner of his lips. He bended down, meeting Elphias at eye level, their faces mere inches apart. "Oh? Yeah, I’d say I’m pretty cool… definitely cooler than you," Gellert retorted, his voice filled with confidence. "Tell me why did Albus come running to me in tears last week, explaining to me how you forced a kiss on him?"
Elphias recoiled, his expression shifting from arrogance to pure fury upon Gellert's revelation. He couldn't bear to accept the responsibility for his own actions and instead lashed out at Gellert. He opened his mouth to speak, his voice seething with anger.
"That's because you kissed him before I did!" Elphias spat, his words filled with bitterness. "He would have liked me then if you'd just stayed away from him!"
Gellert's eyes narrowed, a spark of annoyance flashing in his gaze. He refused to be blamed for Elphias's own mistakes. "You're mistaken, Elphias," he retorted firmly. "It was your actions that hurt him, not mine."
Elphias clenched his fists, his face contorted with rage. "He was mine first! You came along and stole him from me!"
Gellert's voice turned icy as he confronted Elphias's delusion. "He found something in me that he couldn't find in you."
Elphias seethed with frustration, his voice quivering with pent-up anger. "You claim that you're better than me? You think you can just swoop in and take him away?"
Gellert's voice remained calm, but there was a resolute anger at Elphias in his tone. "I don't claim to be better than you, Doge, I am better than you without needing to claim it." he declared, his words sharp and laced with disdain.
Elphias's face contorted with a mix of surprise and fury. "You think you're superior just because Albus turned to you?"
Gellert's eyes bore into Elphias, his voice unwavering. "Yes, I am superior," he retorted with a cold edge to his tone. "I told you to stay away from what's mine, and look where we are. He accepted my kiss while yours was nothing but a betrayal. Maybe you’re just bad at kissing."
Elphias clenched his fists, his face contorted with a mix of anger and frustration. "You can't just label him as yours, he never was yours to begin with."
Gellert's expression hardened, his voice filled with determination. "Albus deserves someone who respects him and cherishes him, and that someone is me. He’s mine."
Elphias scoffed, his voice laced with bitterness. "You think you're the only one who can give him that? Don't underestimate what we had."
Gellert's gaze remained cold as he whispered in Elphias' ear, his words dripping with arrogance. "What you had with him is in the past. I am the only one who truly understands him." With a final disdainful glance, he turned and walked away, leaving Elphias standing alone in the dark corridor.
–
five days before
It had been a long and tiring term for Aberforth, being the sole caretaker for his sister Ariana, who was quite a handful and trying to focus on his studies. He often wondered why Ariana couldn't simply stay at home with their mother, where someone could better attend to her needs. The responsibility of caring for her had weighed heavily on his shoulders during Albus's absence.
As the train ride home commenced, Aberforth sat in the compartment, feeling a mix of exhaustion and worry. He had received a letter from Albus just the day before, informing him that he wouldn't be able to return home for the break. The news had left Aberforth feeling both disappointed and burdened, as he was now solely responsible for Ariana's care.
The letter also contained a puzzling mention of Elphias acting strangely. Aberforth couldn't discern the exact nature of Elphias's odd behaviour from Albus's rushed and straightforward words. It seemed as though Albus had hastily written the letter, likely late at night, leaving Aberforth with more questions than answers.
Amidst his weariness and concern, Aberforth's attention was abruptly drawn to the compartment door swinging open. Ariana burst in, brimming with excitement, her eyes sparkling as if she had just encountered a mythical unicorn which was her favourite creature
Aberforth assumed that Ariana was engrossed in conversation with her friends in another compartment, a group of individuals whom he held a strong aversion towards. It was a sentiment that extended beyond their social circle, as Aberforth often found it difficult to connect with people outside of their immediate family.
In this regard, there were two exceptions: Elphias and Horace, who happened to be close friends of Albus. Aberforth, for the first time, acknowledged the genuine camaraderie shared between them, finding a level of respect and likability in those individuals. Elphias and Horace had earned Aberforth's trust in fourth year and were perhaps the only ones outside their family whom he considered likeable.
As the train came to a halt at King's Cross station, a wave of relief washed over Aberforth and Ariana. Their weary eyes lit up with anticipation as they caught sight of their mother, standing amidst the bustling crowd, her distinct pointed hat perched atop her head. A warm smile graced her face, radiating the love and joy that only a mother's presence could bring.
Without a moment's hesitation, Aberforth and Ariana eagerly disembarked from the train, their school trunks momentarily forgotten on the cold floor. Their hearts raced with excitement as they darted towards their mother, their steps quickening with each passing moment. As they reached her, arms wide open, they embraced her tightly, enveloped in the warmth of a long-awaited reunion.
She gently released her embrace, her smile faltering slightly as she surveyed Aberforth and Ariana picking up their trunks. Concern etched across her face, she posed the question that had been weighing on her mind, "Where's Albus?"
Aberforth let out a sigh, a mix of weariness and understanding. As he assisted Ariana with her trunk, he explained, "Albus had to remain at Durmstrang for the Yule Ball. Even if he had returned for the holidays, he wouldn't have boarded the Hogwarts Express."
A tinge of disappointment laced Aberforth's words, mirroring the absence he felt in his brother's absence. The Yule Ball, an enchanting event that Albus was partaking in, had kept him away from their family gathering. While Aberforth comprehended the circumstances, it didn't erase the longing for Albus's presence. It seems as though everyone wanted Albus’s presence.
Their mother's expression softened, a mix of understanding and empathy evident in her eyes. She nodded, a silent acknowledgment of the situation, before intertwining her fingers with Aberforth's and Ariana's and apparated them to Godric's Hallow.
–
As the snowflakes gently fell outside, painting the world in a soft blanket of white, Aberforth found himself in the stillness of midnight. The responsibilities of the day had finally settled, and he had just managed to lull Ariana into a peaceful slumber. Now, in the solitude of his room, Aberforth's thoughts turned to his absent brother.
He just remembered about the letter Albus had sent the previous day, assuming that his brother was merely in the adjacent room, engrossed in his beloved books. However, the truth was far different. Albus was miles away from Godric's Hollow, attending the tournament in Durmstrang, a fact that Aberforth had momentarily overlooked.
Aberforth made his way to the neglected desk in his room. Dust danced in the faint glow of the lamplight, as he reached for his writing tools and carefully retrieved two worn-out pieces of parchment paper, aged and weathered, and the perfect length fit for two letters.
Carefully, so as not to disturb the peaceful slumber of his mother and sister, he made his way downstairs.
The old wooden staircase creaked under Aberforth's weight as he descended, moving with silent steps. In the dimly lit living room, the grey family owl perched patiently on its stand, a faithful companion ready to carry messages to their intended recipients.
Aberforth approached the owl with reverence, aware of the significance of his actions. Tenderly, he fastened the two letters—one addressed to Albus and the other to Elphias—to the owl's leg.
With a whispered word of gratitude to the owl, Aberforth gently nudged it toward the window, urging it to take flight into the night sky. The owl spread its wings, embracing the freedom of the open air, as it carried Aberforth's heartfelt messages through the wintry landscape.
–
Dear Albus, 19th December, 1897
Don’t worry about any of that. I hope you have a blast at the Yule Ball. Even though being stuck with only mum and Ariana during the break is going to be a bit of a nightmare, we'll survive. House feels lot more empty without you around. Also how is Elphias being weird?
Missing you loads, Al.
-Aberforth