A/N: For Mount Potter Competition (10/55, prompt: equality). Thanks to Sam for giving me this lovely little idea. She is very welcome, as always.
"We will bring our world out of hiding," Gellert says, nodding to emphasize his own words. "There is no need for us to remain in the shadows. With everything we know, everything we can do..."
Albus can't help but to smile at the thought. A world where Muggles and wizards are equal, where they can live side by side in harmony. "No more hiding," he agrees.
Gellert's eyes are ablaze with passion. He slams his fist down on the kitchen table, a manic smile twisting at his lips. "No. We will take what is ours and put the Muggles in their place!"
Albus feels his smile fade. This isn't what they had planned. He had followed Gellert under the belief that they would restore order. Now, his friend is speaking of domination? Albus can't respond.
His uncertainty must show because Gellert climbs to his feet and moves behind Albus, resting a hand on his shoulder. Albus tries to ignore the warmth the flutters through his body at the contact. He needs to remain professional. He can't let his emotions cloud his judgment.
"Think of what they did to your sister, Albus. Think of that poor child, bloody and shaken, plunged into madness. Do you think we have room for such people in our new world?"
Albus swallows dryly. "They're not all like that," he says quietly, closing his eyes.
He can't block out the memory. Ariana, so small, bruised and broken in their father's arms. Aberforth, gripping Albus' arms, desperate for a strength that the elder brother could not lend. Their mother, falling at their father's feet, sobbing as she held Ariana's tiny hand.
"Well?" Gellert prompts, fingers digging into Albus' shoulder and jarring him back to the moment.
"No," he says at last. "There will be no room for them."