Chapter 6
Dear Aberforth Dumbledore, 22nd December, 1897
I wasn’t acting weird around your brother, I mean - I was, but I don’t know, okay?
You see, there's a student at Durmstrang named Gellert Grindelwald. He has a reputation for being the most dangerous student in this wretched place, and unfortunately, he has developed strong feelings for Albus just like everyone else has. It seems that Albus, against all odds, has reciprocated those feelings. Gellert shared a kiss with him before I did, and now we find ourselves in an incredibly awkward situation.
I never intended for things to unfold in this manner. It is difficult for me to put into words the weight of my own feelings and the confusion that accompanies them.
-Elphias
Aberforth, overcome by frustration and anger, crumpled the letter from Elphias in his hand. He couldn't bear the thought of his brother being caught in the tangled web of emotions involving a dark wizard. With a scoff of disbelief, he made a rash decision and threw the letter into the fireplace, watching as the flames consumed the parchment.
A wave of anger washed over Aberforth as he contemplated the situation. He couldn't fathom why so many individuals seemed to be drawn to Albus, including Elphias.
All he wants is to protect Albus and Ariana.
–
On Christmas morning, Albus awoke to a magical sight. His chamber was filled with an abundance of presents, stacks on stacks of beautifully wrapped gifts, adorned in brown parchment paper, scattered on the floor beside his bed. The room was alive with anticipation, Albus couldn't help but feel a rush of childlike excitement coursing through his veins as he eagerly began unwrapping each present, savouring the joy and wonder of the holiday season.
It seemed that boys and girls from all three participating schools had persistently sought his attention throughout the year. Unbeknownst to Albus, his popularity soared, but he remained oblivious to the depth of affection directed towards him. As he unwrapped each gift, he discovered tiny notes adorned with names of individuals he swore he had never encountered before.
Nonchalantly, Albus shrugged off the mystery surrounding the unfamiliar names, focusing instead on the abundance of gifts that surrounded him.
Among the hundreds of gifts was a gleaming, latest model broomstick gifted by a Beauxbatons student, a thoughtful gesture despite Albus's less-than-stellar Quidditch skills. He delighted in a collection of chocolate frogs and various sweets from numerous well-wishers. Gellert surprised him with a dusty old book titled Tales of Beedle the Bard, it looked ancient steeped in wizarding folklore, Albus might have to ask him about it. Elphias presented him with a flute that had the ability to make Albus's nose go runny if he played it poorly. Horace had gifted cosy blankets, perfect for winter nights. Aberforth and Ariana presented Albus with a carefully wrapped mirror along with an attached note. Intriguingly, they also managed to sneak him a stack of books from the restricted section of the Hogwarts library. Lastly, his mother had sent him a delightful assortment of Hogsmeade sweets, a sweet reminder of home.
Albus finally stood up and looked around his room. The sun's gentle rays streamed through the window, casting a warm glow on the familiar surroundings. He let out a sigh of mixed anticipation and weariness as his gaze settled on the armchair, where his blue and white dress robes lay draped.
The robes, carefully chosen for the occasion later that day, shimmered softly in the light. Albus couldn't help but feel a twinge of nervousness, knowing the weight of expectations that rested upon him. It was an important event, one that he couldn’t escape from.
As he approached the armchair, Albus's fingers reluctantly brushed against the smooth fabric of the robes. He marvelled at the intricate details, the delicate embroidery that adorned the edges, and the flowing fabric that promised elegance and sophistication.
His mother sure did know how to put together an outfit.
Albus finally stood up and looked around his room. The sun's gentle rays streamed through the window, casting a warm glow on the familiar surroundings. He let out a sigh of mixed anticipation and weariness as his gaze settled on the armchair, where his blue and white dress robes lay draped.
Just as Albus was about to reach for the dress robes, he heard a knock on his door. "Albus!" came a voice from the other side. Grateful for the warning of his friends, he quickly put the robes in a box, bent down to pick up a book, and opened the door with his wand. Of course, it was Elphias and Horace, both adorned in Christmas sweaters and their usual pointy hats. They stared down at Albus, catching him with a book in his hands.
Horace facepalmed while Elphias chuckled and said, "Oh, come on, Albus! You are not going to have one second of reading time today. Today is Christmas, and it's time for the Yule Ball!"
"Seriously, someone gifted you a broomstick?" Horace glanced down at his belongings strewn across the floor. Albus promptly set aside the book he was engrossed in and skillfully cast a spell, causing the room to tidy itself up. Items levitated back into their respective places with a gentle sway, restoring order to the once-chaotic space.
Albus sighed as the sleek broomstick propped itself up against the wall, its state-of-the-art design mocking his inability to fly. "Yeah, I can't even fly, and it's the latest model too," he lamented.
Horace and Elphias exchanged a glance before they moved forward, each grabbing one of Albus' arms, determined to pull him away from the confines of his chamber and into the refreshing morning air. Surprisingly, the sky was clear, devoid of the usual snowfall, but that doesn’t change the fact of the six feet deep snow all over the grounds.
As Elphias tugged Albus in a direction away from the Durmstrang entrance, Albus couldn't help but feel a pang of curiosity. "Hey, wait," he interjected, his voice laced with anticipation, "aren’t we going to get breakfast or what?"
Horace laughed, “No, not today, Al.”
"Yeah, we're going to be outside all day until the Yule Ball starts," Elphias remarked, a mischievous glint in his eyes. He bent down, scooping up a fistful of pristine white snow, his excitement palpable. “Cherish this moment.”
Albus sighed, feeling a slight chill in the winter air and wishing he could be indoors at the moment. However, as he watched Horace and Elphias engage in their playful snowball fight, a smile tugged at his lips. He couldn't resist the temptation to join in on the fun.
With a swift motion, Albus bent down and grabbed a handful of snow, shaping it into a compact ball. He carefully aimed at Horace, who was momentarily distracted by Elphias's antics. Albus's snowball sailed through the air, narrowly missing Horace's shoulder but leaving a small puff of snow in its wake.
As Albus, Horace, and Elphias continued their lively snowball fight outside, back in the castle, away from that wintry field, the dark and cold corridors of Durmstrang bore witness to the presence of Gellert Grindelwald. A calculated smile played on his lips as he strode with purpose, his mind consumed by one thought—the upcoming Yule Ball and more specifically Albus Dumbledore.
Ever since Albus had agreed to accompany him to the grand event, Gellert had been filled with an eager anticipation. The prospect of showcasing Albus as his date stirred a fervent desire within him. He relished the idea of the reactions that would ripple through the crowd when they realised that Albus had chosen the darkest wizard of the school over all others who wanted him.
As he walked, the dimly lit corridors seemed to reflect his inner turmoil. Gellert’s mind raced with visions of the ballroom adorned in opulent decorations, the envious gazes directed his way, and the whispers of intrigue that would undoubtedly follow his every move. They wouldn’t dare to attack him though.
As Gellert walked through the dimly lit Durmstrang corridors, a sight caught his attention. He halted abruptly, his gaze drawn to the view beyond a very dimly tinted window. There, silhouetted against the wintry landscape, stood three figures—Horace Slughorn, Elphias Doge, and Albus.
A flicker of annoyance crossed Gellert’s face as he narrowed his eyes, observing Doge and Albus. While he held a certain level of indifference towards Slughorn, it was Doge who elicited a distinct unease within him. Gellert had made it clear to the boy before: to keep his distance from Albus.
Gellert couldn't deny the genuine connection between Elphias and Albus. He knew that abruptly forcing Elphias to stay away from his best friend would only cause confusion and hurt for Albus. Albus would question his own actions, wondering if he had somehow caused this sudden change in their dynamic. The thought of Albus feeling sadness and guilt tore at Gellert’s heart.
That doesn’t stop him, though, from absolutely hating Elphias Doge.
—
After an hour of frolicking in the cold, Albus began to feel a chill creeping into his bones. Despite his pleas to Elphias and Horace, they insisted on staying outside. Albus couldn't help but pout in frustration.
"Seriously, guys," Albus protested, wrapping his arms around himself for warmth. "I'm freezing out here. Can't we go back inside?"
Horace chuckled, amused by Albus' discomfort. "Come on, Albus. It's only been an hour!"
Elphias nodded in agreement. "Yeah, have some fun, Al."
Albus looked down at the snow, feeling the icy cold seeping through his clothes and making him shiver. He longed to retreat back inside where it was warm and cosy. The Durmstrang grounds were abuzz with students, laughter filling the air as they celebrated Christmas and embraced the joy of the outdoors without a constant blizzard.
As Albus observed Elphias and Horace, engaging in a snowball fight, he noticed other students attempting to join in, hoping to be part of the fun. However, a part of him couldn't help but think that their interest was solely because of Elphias and Horace’s connection to him. Elphias, like Aberforth, fiercely protected Albus and shooed away those who seemed to approach them.
One of the Beauxbatons girls mustered up the courage to approach Albus and extend an invitation for him to accompany her to the Yule Ball. However, Albus politely declined, explaining that he already had a partner for the event. The girl, disheartened, hurriedly retreated to her friends, her eyes welling up with tears.
Elphias, momentarily distracted from the snowball fight by the interaction, stopped throwing snowballs at Horace. In that moment of vulnerability, he ended up getting hit by a snowball himself, but he seemed unfazed. His voice held a touch of bitterness as he asked, "Yeah, who even is your partner, Albus?"
Albus met Elphias' gaze, sensing the undercurrent of tension. It was true that they hadn't yet had a proper conversation about the forced kiss that Elphias had initiated. The topic had been left unaddressed, creating an unspoken discomfort between them.
"Elphias, you'll find out tonight at the ball," Albus replied, his voice tinged with a mix of anticipation and apprehension.
“Yeah okay, Albus. Fine.”
–
Twenty minutes before lunch, the snow-covered fields of Hogwarts were abuzz with anticipation as students gathered in groups, eagerly discussing the upcoming Yule Ball. Excitement filled the air, accompanied by hushed conversations about dance partners, speculation about the most attractive attendees, and giggles shared between friends.
Albus found solace on a nearby bench, engrossed in a book written by Muggles, which was very hard to get since Durmstrang didn’t accept Muggle born students. The title, Romeo and Juliet, intrigued him with its tale of love and tragedy.
Despite Albus's best efforts to immerse himself in the captivating story of Romeo and Juliet, the persistent interruption from fellow students seeking his attention became increasingly distracting. As he sat on the bench, one person after another would sidle up, attempting to engage him in conversation and perhaps even sway him to be their partner for the ball. Each interruption disrupted the flow of his reading and tested his patience.
Word had spread like wildfire that Albus already had a partner for the ball, courtesy of the rejected invitation earlier. The curious and eager students couldn't resist the temptation to discover the identity of Albus's chosen companion. They approached him with inquisitive gazes and hopeful expressions, only to be met with a consistent response of, "You will find out."
Among the numerous theories circulating about the dance partners of the three champions, Albus found himself unwittingly tangled in the web of speculation.
Rumours had begun to circulate, linking him romantically to Margaux Delacroix, a student from Beauxbatons and the sister of Celeste. Albus hadn't been aware of Celeste having a sister, but he couldn't deny the striking resemblance between the two - both pure-blood Veelas exuding an enchanting allure.
Another name mentioned was Eveline Nightshade, a captivating blonde Ravenclaw who had caught the attention of many students with her beauty. Whispers of Albus's potential interest in Eveline sparked conversations.
But he had no interest in any of those girls. The truth was, he was unsure of his own feelings. He knew he was drawn to Gellert, a magnetic pull that both thrilled and terrified him since the boy was supposedly a dark wizard. However, the kiss he shared with Elphias left him with a nagging sense of unease and confusion. Albus found himself grappling with a tangle of emotions, unsure of who he truly liked or what his heart truly desired.
He was pulled out of his thoughts by Horace, who was shaking him gently. "Merlin's beard... Albus, it's time for lunch," Horace exclaimed. Albus looked up and noticed a stream of students heading towards the Durmstrang entrance.
"We're actually going to get lunch?" Albus questioned, searching for the page he had been reading in his book and rising from the partially snow-covered bench. "I thought you and Elphias said we were going to be out here all day, at least until the ball starts…"
"Yeah, well, we're hungry now," Elphias replied with a slight grin.
They joined the stream of hungry students making their way towards the entrance, their stomachs rumbling from skipping breakfast. Finding their seats at the table, they sat down with a sense of relief and began conversing happily. Unbeknownst to Albus, Elphias kept stealing frequent glances in his direction, his gaze filled with a mixture of fondness and longing.
After a couple of minutes of lively conversation, Albus turned his attention from Horace to Elphias. "Do you have a partner, El?" he asked, genuinely curious.
Elphias averted his gaze, his fingers idly toying with his food. "No," he replied softly, his voice carrying a hint of wistfulness.
Horace glanced at him, considering something before chiming in, "You'd better hurry mate, before you end up going with a troll."
Elphias chuckled, a bittersweet smile gracing his lips. "I know, I know," he replied, his eyes flickering briefly towards Albus before returning to his plate.
Albus looked at Horace, a mischievous glint in his eyes, and smirked slightly. "Wait, you managed to get a partner?!" he exclaimed.
Horace chuckled and shrugged. "Yes, Albus, believe it or not, someone was actually willing to accompany me to the ball. Shocking, isn't it?" he replied, his tone laced with humour.
"Yes, that truly is shocking, considering you don't talk to anyone," Albus retorted, a playful smile on his face. Horace raised an eyebrow, feigning offence.
"Hey now, I do have my moments of social interaction," he replied, pretending to be indignant.
Elphias chuckled, "Yes, but those moments are as rare as a unicorn sighting." The three friends burst into laughter, enjoying their light-hearted banter.
Across the hall, the blond who had just settled down with his friends felt his heart skip a beat as his gaze instinctively shifted towards the ginger boy he frequently thought about.
His mismatched eyes lingered on the tantalising sight, recalling the softness of those red, plush lips pressed against his own. Oh, how he longed to taste them again, to savour the intoxicating sensation. But he knew he had to wait just a few more hours, for tonight held the promise of rekindling that fiery connection once more.
First, he would navigate through the enchantment and allure of the ball, guiding the ginger-haired boy away from the crowded ballroom, their bodies moving in perfect synchrony. As they ascended the stairs, their hands gently intertwined, he contemplated the next course of action.
Should he surrender to the intensity of his desires, fulfilling the fantasies that had consumed his thoughts and dreams for months? Or perhaps a profound, lingering kiss would suffice for this stolen moment, leaving the rest to fate's embrace?
The anticipation within him grew with each passing moment, his eagerness to be by Albus' side intensifying. He yearned for the ball to commence, for the music to fill the air and the enchantment of the event to envelop them. Itching for the opportunity to share precious moments with Albus, free from the prying eyes and interruptions of others, he counted the seconds until the ball would finally begin.
He looked more closely as Slughorn took Doge's hand and walked towards the exit of the Great Hall, leaving Albus alone at their table. Gellert's eyes narrowed with a hint of jealousy as he noticed people from other tables exchange seats to go sit next to Albus, vying for his attention like always.
–
"Hey, Elphias, can I talk to you...?" Horace asked, his voice laced with urgency, as Elphias finished his lunch.
Elphias looked up, curiosity evident in his eyes. "What do you need?"
Horace shook his head, his expression serious. "No, not here… in private."
Albus raised an eyebrow, his attention piqued, as he glanced up at the two of them. Elphias nodded, a touch of concern on his face, and almost immediately, Horace took hold of his hand and pulled him away from the table, leading them out of the bustling Great Hall.
Horace kept walking until they found a deserted corridor and stopped. The tension in the air was palpable as Elphias looked at Horace, his brows furrowed in confusion. "What's this about?" Elphias asked.
Without uttering a word, Horace swiftly moved forward, shoving Elphias against the cold wall. Closing his eyes, he leaned in and captured Elphias' lips in a passionate kiss. Surprised yet willing, forgetting all about Albus, Elphias closed his eyes as well, reciprocating the kiss with equal intensity, their emotions intertwining in that brief moment of shared desire.
After a while, Horace pulled back slightly, his warm breath ghosting over Elphias' neck. "Will you go to the ball with me?" he whispered.
Elphias, still flustered from the intensity of their kiss, managed to gather his thoughts. "I thought you said you already had a partner?"
Horace's eyes sparkled with mischief as he leaned in again, pressing his lips against Elphias' once more. "Well," he murmured between kisses, "I do now."
–
He glanced at himself in the full-length mirror, his silky light blue dress robes draping elegantly over his figure. A faint smile played on his lips as he assessed his appearance. Was he missing something? His eyes fell upon his wand, resting nearby.
With a confident flick of his wrist, he pointed the wand at his hair, a soft incantation escaping his lips. In an instant, his auburn locks shimmered with a vibrant shade of purple, adding a touch of enchantment to his overall look.
He carefully placed a star-shaped hair clip in his vibrant, purple-highlighted hair, hoping that it added an extra touch of charm to his appearance. Yet, as he gazed at his reflection, a hint of insecurity crept into his thoughts.
As he made his way through the corridors of Hogwarts, his mind swirled with thoughts and uncertainties. The whispers of admiration and longing that followed him only intensified his unease. Why did people see him as a deity, when he felt so far from it? What was it about him that drew attention and fascination?
He didn't seek the spotlight, nor did he yearn for the adoration of others. The weight of the expectations placed upon him only served to deepen his sense of unease. He couldn't help but feel that much of the attention he received was thanks to Elphias.
With a heavy sigh, he walked towards the door of his room, his mind still plagued by these thoughts as he headed towards the Durmstrang entrance.
–
Gellert stood by the staff table, dressed in his striking red and grey dress robes, adorned with a fashionable bowtie and a luxurious fur cape – unlike the one he usually wore for his Durmstrang uniform. His attire exuded confidence and masculinity, reflecting his own sense of self-assuredness.
A smirk played upon his lips, his mind filled with vivid images of Albus in his arms, dancing to the enchanting melodies.
As Gellert awaited Albus's arrival, his attention was momentarily diverted by Celeste's entrance. He watched as she gracefully made her way towards the staff table, her emerald green dress capturing the attention of everyone around her. The vibrant colour complemented her complexion and accentuated her elegance. The dress, cascading down to her knees, showcased her slender figure, leaving a trail of admiration in its wake.
Celeste was accompanied by her boyfriend, a fortunate individual who had secured her affection.
Then, there was Albus.
Gellert's breath caught in his throat as he met Albus's gaze, their eyes locking in a moment of intense connection. Albus's captivating presence seemed to radiate a magnetic energy, drawing Gellert's attention like a moth to a flame. The sight of him, adorned in his unique and enchanting attire, sent Gellert's heart into a blissful frenzy.
The purple streaks that adorned Albus's ginger hair added a touch of whimsy and playfulness, showcasing his willingness to embrace his individuality. The golden star hair clip nestled among the strands added a hint of magic, accentuating the ethereal beauty of his features. And there it was, the extension piece of hair, flowing down Albus's back in a mesmerising gradient of orange to purple. Its sheer length and volume were a testament to Albus's boldness and flair.
But it wasn't just his hair that caught Gellert's attention. Albus's robes, perfectly matched to the captivating hue of his eyes, enveloped him in a cloak of enchantment. The rich colour mirrored the depth and complexity of his gaze, drawing Gellert further into their depths. The white scruffs and the crisp white button-down beneath added a touch of contrast, enhancing the overall allure and sophistication of his ensemble.
As Gellert continued to drink in the sight of Albus, he felt his heart swell with a mix of adoration and longing as he approached the boy. The undeniable beauty before him stirred a whirlwind of emotions, igniting a passion within Gellert that burned with an intensity he had never known.
As Gellert led Albus to the staff table where the champions were gonna eat their dinner, his hand enveloped in the warmth of Albus's, a rush of excitement coursed through his veins. With a smile on his face, Gellert guided Albus to a seat, ensuring his comfort before taking his own place beside him.
Across the table, Celeste's playful wink sent a surge of anticipation through Gellert, a silent congratulations for capturing Albus’ heart. He returned the gesture with a smirk.
Gellert's gaze never wavered from Albus as he settled into his seat. His eyes danced with affection and mischief, drawn to the vibrant display of freckles that adorned Albus's cheeks. The freckles, more pronounced than usual, seemed to dance like constellations across his skin, adding an irresistible charm to his already captivating presence.
Unable to resist the urge, Gellert leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to Albus's cheek. It was a tender gesture, a silent declaration of his affection and a private moment shared between them. As he pulled back, he couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of the blush that painted Albus's cheeks, enhancing his natural radiance.
As the professors settled down at the staff table, they looked upon Albus and Gellert and Celeste and her partner, acknowledging their decision to be partners with nods and smiles. The atmosphere was filled with an air of acceptance and support, reflecting the progressive mindset of the wizarding community.
There was one person who seemed unsettled by the unconventional pairing, which was Albus and Gellert. The representative from the Bulgarian Ministry, whose presence was intended to ensure the smooth running of the event, glanced nervously at Albus and Gellert. His face contorted with disapproval, but realising the futility of voicing their objection in such an inclusive environment, he kept his opinions to himself.
Albus looked at his plate full of food and ate a couple bites before it was time for the champions to open the ball. They stood before the curtains that separated them and thousands of students. Albus looked at Professor Dippet who nodded at him as he walked through the crowd, holding Gellert’s hand.
Everyone’s attention was focused on Albus though. A lot were taking in his outfit that matched his eyes, more were more impressed by his hair, and some were angry about his partner choice. Gellert was smirking the whole time, even more smug as they walked past Elphias and Horace.
Elphias' heart ached as he watched Gellert's smug expression, knowing that the cause of his discomfort was not their partnership, but the undeniable love he held for Albus. Despite having Horace by his side, Elphias couldn't shake the deep-rooted feelings he had developed for Albus from the moment they first met. It was a love that seemed destined to remain unrequited.
He turned his gaze to Horace, who met his eyes with understanding. They had become inseparable friends, bound by shared experiences and a deep bond. Horace knew Elphias' unspoken longing for Albus, just as Elphias understood Horace's lack of romantic interest in their red-haired companion. They marvelled at the incredible popularity and influence Albus possessed, as the Hogwarts champion and a beloved figure among their peers. The boy can literally go up to anybody to ask something and their face would go just as red as Albus’s hair, not knowing what to say because they’d be so flustered that the pretty boy was talking to them.
It was true that Gellert Grindelwald was charming, to say the least. Whether it was the way he carried himself or the magnetic presence he exuded, he had a certain charisma that captivated others. Girls would giggle and cast admiring glances his way, intrigued by his enigmatic persona. Gellert seemed to not mind and actually liked the attention, embracing the limelight and basking in the admiration he received, even though the only person he’d only ever had interest in was Albus.
Albus, on the other hand, was a different kind of individual. He found joy and fulfilment in the world of books and knowledge. Albus was more comfortable in the company of his thoughts and ideas, preferring the quiet solitude that reading and contemplation offered. The attention that came with social interactions often overwhelmed him, leaving him feeling uneasy and anxious.
While Albus admired Gellert's charm and understood why others were drawn to him, he didn't share the same desire for attention. The spotlight felt suffocating to him, and he struggled to navigate the social expectations that came with it.
As the crowd cleared a path for the two pairs, Gellert couldn't help but feel a surge of satisfaction. He had dreamt of this moment for so long, imagining Albus in his arms, their bodies swaying to the rhythm of the music. The fact that Albus had agreed to be his partner only heightened Gellert's delight, a smug smile playing on his lips as he gazed into Albus's mesmerising blue eyes.
In that instant, Gellert's heart fluttered with a mix of exhilaration and triumph. He had sensed Elphias's resentment and envy, knowing that their connection had stirred up complex emotions within their shared circle. But as he held Albus close, all those thoughts faded into the background, replaced by the joy of being chosen by the one he desired.
As the enchanting melodies filled the air, couples swayed and twirled to the rhythm of the Yule Ball music. Albus, momentarily weary of the dancing, felt a growing hunger in his stomach. He tugged at Gellert's hand, guiding him out of the crowd and towards the area where an array of delicious food awaited.
Gellert chuckled at Albus's eagerness as they settled themselves across from each other. The ambient light bathed their surroundings, creating an intimate atmosphere amidst the bustling hall. Albus's eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and hunger as he reached for a plate, skillfully selecting a variety of delectable treats, from succulent pieces of meat to vibrant fruits.
Gellert's gaze never wavered from Albus, captivated by the way he seemed completely engrossed in his meal. The simple act of watching Albus eat brought a sense of contentment to Gellert.
Merlin… Albus is absolutely gorgeous. Gellert's thoughts swirled with a mixture of admiration and desire as he gazed into Albus's captivating blue eyes. The enchanting hue seemed to hold a universe of mystery and depth, drawing Gellert in like a moth to a flame. Every time he locked eyes with Albus, it felt as though a silent conversation passed between them, filled with unspoken longing and uncharted possibilities.
Ever since the ball started, Gellert has been marvelling at Albus's beauty. So was probably everyone else. His tousled ginger hair with streaks of purple seemed to shimmer under the soft glow of the Yule Ball lights. His features were delicate yet striking, the faint blush on his cheeks adding a touch of vulnerability to his allure. And those eyes—those mesmerising blue eyes—reflected a wealth of emotions that Gellert yearned to explore and understand.
"Hungry, Alby?" Gellert asked, a soft smile playing on his lips. He, too, began to help himself to the tempting spread before them.
Albus looked up at Gellert, smiling softly. “You bet I am…”
All the way in a different corner of the room, Elphias and Horace were sitting at a table, both elegantly dressed but not joining the dancing crowd. Horace was trying to convince Elphias to dance with him.
"Oh, come on, Elphias," Horace pleaded. "Albus obviously likes Grindelwald, and you know now that I like you… Don't do this to me."
Elphias couldn't help but glance over at Albus and Gellert, who seemed to be enjoying each other's company amidst the swirling dance floor. His face tightened with a mix of emotions. "You wouldn't understand," he mumbled, feeling a pang of jealousy and heartache.
"Try me," Horace insisted, his tone growing more desperate. "If you're not going to dance with me, then I don't see why I shouldn't leave you here alone right now."
With a bitter look, Elphias finally responded, "Go ahead then."
The words hit Horace hard, and he felt his heart sink. He slammed his drink on the wooden table in frustration, causing the liquid to splatter. "Fine. If that's how you're going to be," he yelled angrily before storming off, causing people to look at Elphias.
Elphias dismissed the stares he received and watched Horace leave, his heart heavy with regret. He knew he had hurt his friend, but he couldn't help the turmoil of emotions that overwhelmed him. Seeing Albus with Gellert stirred up feelings he had long suppressed, and he couldn't bear the thought of watching them together.
Eventually, after some time passed, Elphias couldn't bear the sight any longer. He decided to leave the ballroom, hoping to find solace in the quieter parts of the castle. As he made his way through the corridors, he found a secluded spot near one of the large windows and leaned against the cool stone, staring out into the night. It was snowing again.
His mind was a whirlwind of emotions. He wanted to be happy for Albus, but he couldn't shake the feeling of being left behind. The memory of their shared history, the moments they spent together, and the hope he had nurtured in his heart all seemed to fade away in the face of Albus' newfound connection with Gellert.
Lost in his thoughts, Elphias didn't notice that someone had followed him. He looked around and saw two silhouettes leaning against the opposing wall, their faces obscured by shadows.
“We’re not sorry for this, Doge,” a girl's voice rang out.
Another voice, also belonging to a girl, agreed. “Think twice before trying to…”
Without hearing another word, something struck him hard on the back of his head, and the world around him turned to black.
–
As Elphias slumped to the floor, unconscious, the two Durmstrang students exchanged satisfied glances. They had been planning this for a while, seeking revenge for some perceived slight or jealousy.
Unaware of what had just transpired, the Yule Ball continued on, with the music and laughter flowing freely. Horace returned to the ballroom after a while, looking for Elphias, only to find him missing.
Meanwhile, Albus and Gellert were still enjoying each other's company, completely oblivious to the situation unfolding elsewhere.
Well, Gellert does…
Gellert's eyes sparkled with anticipation as he looked at Albus. "It's getting late, Liebe."
Albus returned the smile, a hint of excitement in his voice. "Yeah, I guess so..."
Gellert leaned closer, his voice filled with a playful suggestion. "Want to escape somewhere more private? Just the two of us?"
Albus's breath caught in his throat, his heart racing. He nodded, his voice barely a whisper. "Yes."
Gellert stood up and gently took Albus's hand, leading him away from the bustling ballroom. The two of them slipped through the crowd, their fingers intertwined, as they made their way to a secluded garden on the outskirts of the Durmstrang grounds.
The garden was bathed in moonlight, casting a soft glow on the blooming flowers and lush greenery, unlike the rest of the grounds that were covered in snow. Gellert found a secluded bench nestled beneath a fragrant rosebush, and they sat down together, their gazes locked in a silent understanding.
Albus felt a mix of nervousness and excitement coursing through his veins as Gellert's hand found its way to his cheek, gently caressing it. The air was charged with an undeniable tension as Gellert leaned closer, soon enough their lips met in a tender and passionate kiss.
The kiss deepened, their lips melding together in a passionate embrace. Gellert's body shifted, positioning himself so that he was closer to Albus, their breaths mingling in the intimate space between them. Their connection intensified, a shared desire coursing through their veins.
In that moment, time seemed to stand still as they lost themselves in the blissful sensation of their lips moving in perfect harmony. Their hands explored each other's bodies, conveying their longing and affection through gentle touches.
The world around them faded away, leaving only the warmth of their embrace and the sweet taste of their love. As their lips finally parted, they gazed into each other's eyes, a mixture of love and longing reflected in their depths.
Gellert sighed softly, his gaze shifting from Albus to the twinkling stars above. He realised that he hadn't gone as far as he had initially thought. It was just a kiss, a tender moment shared between them.
“S-Something w-w-wr-wrong, Gellert?” Albus stammered, his voice filled with concern as he noticed Gellert's distant expression. Gellert's gaze softened as he turned to face him, realising that Albus was shivering in the chilly night air. Without a moment's hesitation, he removed his fur cape and gently draped it around Albus's shoulders.
A small smile tugged at Gellert's lips as he looked into Albus's eyes. "No, my dear Albus," he whispered, his voice filled with warmth. "As long as I am with you, I’m alright."
Albus's shivering began to subside as he leaned into Gellert's comforting embrace.