a/n This chapter took me an ANNOYINGLY long time to write. BUT I'M SO EXCITED! NEXT CHAPTER, THEY ARE FINALLY GOING TO DURMSTRANG!
Chapter Four
Abroad
In the chaotic whirl of their fall, Ville's world became a maelstrom of wind and darkness. Time stretched thin, elongating each heartbeat into an eternity. Fear clenched his heart like a vice, threatening to suffocate him. The ground below rushed toward him and Teodor with terrifying speed, the tower a distant spire against the ink-black sky.
Desperation clawed at Ville's mind. In the face of imminent death, his instinct to survive kicked in. His eyes locked onto Teodor, the one familiar thing in this nightmare. Teodor, his companion through all the strange twists of fate, his brother in this surreal and terrifying moment, was right there, falling with him, close to death. Everything else they had been through, everything else he had done in the past, or in the case of Teodor, his once future, no longer mattered.
Ville's hand shot out, fingers grasping for Teodor's arm, finding solace in the warmth of his touch even amidst the chaos. He pulled Teodor close, their bodies pressed together in a desperate, instinctual hug. The rush of air drowned out their shared gasps, but Ville found a glimmer of strength in that shared embrace.
Fight, Ville thought fiercely to Teodor, a silent mantra echoing in his mind. His grip on Teodor tightened, finding resolve in the midst of fear.
And then, miraculously, Teodor's voice cut through the roar of the wind. "Mollaire!" he shouted, but the ground still loomed, the fall undeterred. Ville's heart hammered in his chest, fear gripping him like icy fingers. In those heart-pounding moments, time seemed to stretch, the world blurring into a terrifying haze.
And then, just as hope teetered on the edge of despair, another voice, clear and commanding, pierced the chaos. "Arresto Momentum!"
Abruptly, the descent lost its frenetic urgency. Ville felt the pull of gravity ease, their fall becoming a slow, surreal dance towards the ground. It was as if an invisible hand had caught them, cradling them in the night.
Gasping for breath, Ville clung to Teodor, their bodies pressed together in a desperate embrace. Below, the ground approached, but at a manageable pace, thanks to Teodor's swift thinking and the woman's timely intervention.
When it came, the impact was softened as if falling onto a bounce castle. It was not the bone-jarring crash Ville anticipated but a muted thud, absorbed by the enchantment Teodor had conjured. They landed in a heap, shaken but miraculously alive.
"Who are you?" Ville managed to choke out, his voice barely audible over the ringing in his ears.
The figures exchanged glances, and The woman spoke first. "I'm Minerva McGonagall, Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts," she said, her tone kind yet with a firm edge. "This is Rubeus Hagrid, Keeper of Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts. And you are?"
"Ville," he stammered, still in shock, "and this is Teodor."
Hagrid offered them a reassuring smile, his eyes twinkling with sympathy and warmth. "Well, Ville and Teodor, you're safe now."
Still frantic, Teodor insisted, "We have to get off the grounds. And someone needs to get in touch with our mother. She's the Queen of Sweden..."
Ville's mind was a whirlwind of terror and confusion as he stood under the enormous tower where he and Teodor had tumbled, a fall that should have ended their lives. He clung to his younger brother, his body trembling with fear and adrenaline. Despite his young age, Teodor seemed strangely composed, his arm wrapped around Ville's waist in a protective gesture.
Minerva McGonagall, the stern Deputy, appeared frantic. Her eyes darted between them, concern etched on her face. Hagrid, the giant of a man, stood nearby, his confusion mirroring Ville's.
The two boys kept glancing up as if expecting Dumbledore to appear and confirm whether they had survived or not. Each glance made Ville more edgy, more skittish. Without waiting for an answer, Teodor took charge. "We need to go," he said sharply when neither adult moved, his voice cutting through Ville's panic. Minerva, seemingly understanding the urgency, followed without question, asking Hagrid to stay behind and keep an eye on the grounds.
In the darkness, Teodor herded Ville away from the tower, his grip firm yet reassuring. As they moved further from the castle, Ville felt a strange calm washing over him. They entered a quaint village, its warm lights inviting them in. Teodor's voice, soft and comforting, reached Ville's ears. "You can calm down now," he said. "We're off Hogwarts Grounds."
Ville nodded, straightening his posture. Despite the strangeness of their surroundings, he knew he needed to behave like royalty. They entered a cosy establishment, and Professor McGonagall instructed them to sit. They complied, and she went to buy them something called Butterbeer.
"It's been a while," Teodor commented casually, and Ville shot him a pointed look. "People can't know you're from the future!" Ville chastised him sharply.
Teodor shrugged, looking at his nails uninterestedly.
McGonagall returned, placing the Butterbeers in front of them.
"I've informed the Queen." She said, smiling at them gently, not elaborating on how she made that possible.
"She knows you're safe," McGonagall added when they said nothing. "She'll be here shortly to take you home."
Relief washed over Ville. For the first time since their harrowing fall, he allowed himself to hope. They were safe, at least for now, and soon they would be reunited with their mother. As they sipped the warm Butterbeer, Ville tried to steady his trembling hands, finding solace in knowing they had found at least one ally in this strange and magical world.
Ville's hands were still trembling as they sat in the cosy establishment. The warm Butterbeer mainly sat untouched on the table, with Ville sipping from the tasty drink here and there as he pondered. He looked furtively at Teodor, who kept his composure remarkably well despite the harrowing ordeal. Ville found consolation in the boy's presence and leaned closer to him.
"You know," Teodor whispered when McGonagall went to get a spice to add to her Butterbear. "I really never thought something like this could happen."
"Yeah," Ville nodded, tilting his head to the side as he thought. "Ever since we fought off the scar together or whatever it was in our heads, things have been weird," His voice quivered slightly, but he was sure Teodor wouldn't mock him for it.
"Scar," Minerva McGonagall picked up on the word, her eyes narrowing with interest as she sat back down opposite them.
Ville paled, his heart pounding in his chest. He shook his head, trying to dismiss the topic. "N-nothing," he stammered, even as his hand flew to his forehead, a knee-jerk reaction.
Teodor grabbed his hand and pulled it back down, not looking at either of them.
Minerva continued to observe them, her curiosity piqued but not yet suspicious. "Who did you say you are, again?" she enquired.
Ville's trembling only intensified, tears welling up in his eyes. Teodor seemed to recognise his distress and spoke up, his tone confident and charismatic, a side he had yet to see.
"We are the sons of the royal court. The crown prince has been left behind because he is already enrolled at Durmstrang. Our letters have been tampered with and turned into Portkeys. The Portkey brought us here and dumped us into an office."
Minerva listened attentively, her expression giving nothing away, though she was clearly taking the situation seriously.
"Then this man," Teodor continued, "he had a long white beard, spectacles, and had on funny robes, started asking us if we knew where Harry Potter is and why Tom Riddle is living with him."
Minerva's face paled at the mention of the names. Still, she gestured for them to continue, her expression determined but guarded.
"We told him we don't know," Teodor went on, "and he didn't believe us when I said we are brothers and from the Royal Swedish court. But he didn't like that answer. He made fun of the fact instead. He said he only cares about Harry Potter and that Tom Riddle was an add-on."
Ville couldn't help but shudder at the memory of their terrifying encounter with the old man. He stayed quiet, but the anxiety in his eyes was palpable.
"Then," Teodor continued, "he took us to a really tall tower, suspended us in mid-air with magic, and asked us again if we knew Harry Potter. When we said no and said again we had never heard of him and that we were royalty, he said, 'In that case, I don't need witnesses,' and then he dropped us. We would have died if not for you, ma'am."
Minerva's eyes reflected the horror and shock of their story, and a deep concern etched across her features.
Ville, still trembling, sought comfort in Teodor's presence. Being around someone who could be so effortlessly calm was definitely refreshing.
Though their ordeal was far from over, they had found an ally in this mysterious woman, who seemed just as eager to uncover the truth behind their predicament as they were.
"Okay," Minerva said, breaking Ville out of his thoughts, "let's see the letters that were tampered with."
Both boys handed over the letters, holding them by the corner as if afraid they would bite. It would have been funny, except none of them were laughing.
Ville's eyes flicked nervously between the Hogwarts letters in Minerva's hands and her scrutinising gaze. His heart thudded in his chest, a mix of fear and uncertainty knotting in his stomach. The ink on the letters, once clearly bearing the names Harry Potter and Tom Riddle, now looked distorted and rewritten in green ink. The names now read Linnaeus Ville Olsen and Teodor Rasmus Olsen.
"These letters... Certainly seem to have been tampered with," Ville heard Minerva say, her voice measured and thoughtful. "Originally, they said 'Harry Potter' and 'Tom Riddle,' but clearly, you are neither of them."
She waited for them to contradict her, but neither did.
A heavy silence hung in the room, Ville's mind racing to comprehend the implications of Minerva's words. He exchanged a quick, anxious glance with Teodor, who appeared strangely composed despite the gravity of the situation. Ville swallowed hard, his throat dry as he attempted to find words that could explain the complexity of their situation.
The truth hung heavy on his tongue, a story of magic and adoption, of identities intertwined and blurred by circumstances beyond their control. Ville's mouth opened, but the words caught, a lump forming in his throat. He wanted to tell her everything about being Harry Potter and now being Ville Olsen. But the truth felt too tangled, too confusing to express clearly.
Minerva's eyebrows shot up, her eyes widening in a moment of realisation quickly hidden behind her usual stern expression. Ville could sense her understanding, her unspoken acknowledgement of the intricate web of secrets surrounding them. An uneasy stillness fell over the room, the weight of unspoken truths lingering as all three sipped on their Butterbeers as if that were the answer to everything.
The night was still, and the air crackled with otherworldly energy as the Queen of Sweden descended from the heavens in an enchanted coach, pulled by a team of magnificent Abraxans. The creatures' wings, like stretched clouds, carried the adorned carriage elegantly through the night sky. Their deep, midnight blue coats shimmered in the moonlight, their manes and tails cascading like liquid silver. Eyes as bright as stars exuded ancient wisdom and serenity, capturing the attention of all who beheld the majestic sight.
As the enchanted coach touched down, its wheels barely making a sound as they rolled to a stop, Ville's eyes widened in recognition. The figures stepping out were familiar; they had been with them just earlier, though he didn't yet know their roles in the royal court. But in that moment, positions mattered little to Ville. The people he saw were necessary for his mother and brother's safety.
With a burst of emotion, Ville ran towards his mother as soon as she stepped off the coach, his small legs carrying him swiftly. He threw himself into her arms, tears streaming down his cheeks, his sobs muffled against her shoulder. Teodor followed closely, though, unlike Ville, he did not throw himself into their mother's arms.
The Queen, her regal facade momentarily forgotten, pulled Teodor to her and enveloped both of them in a warm, protective embrace. Teodor's eyes flashed with something Ville didn't understand, but he ignored it for now, revelling in the comfort he got from this woman who was his mother.
Her usually composed demeanour cracked as she held her children close, her fury simmering beneath the surface at the danger they had been subjected to. At that moment, they were not a Queen and her heirs but a mother and her beloved sons, finding solace in each other's arms after a harrowing ordeal.
Her usually commanding voice softened as she murmured soothing words, her hands tenderly wiping away Ville's tears. In that embrace, the strength of their bond became palpable, a fortress against the uncertainties of the magical world around them. It was a moment of fierce maternal love, a reminder that no matter their challenges, their family would always be their sanctuary.
After what felt like an eternity, the Queen finally stepped away from the hug but held them close, as if afraid something would happen to them if she let go.
There seemed to be a lull in the conversation as Ville watched. Though he was not observing this, he could feel the look of pure steel his mother aimed at the woman who saved them. He had to give her some respect for not qualling under the look like he'd seen many men do before her, even in just the little time he spent with her.
Ville stood within the circle of his mother's embrace, his hand tightly clasped in Teodor's. From this vantage point, he observed the conversation between McGonagall and the Queen. Minerva's usually firm and composed voice was now laced with apology and fear, her eyes flickering with uncertainty. Despite her trepidation, she spoke honestly, carrying the weight of a grave revelation.
"I must apologise, Your Majesty," Minerva's voice was low, her tone apologetic. "I cannot be certain, but the boys' description fits Albus Dumbledore." Her gaze briefly fell before meeting the Queen's eyes again. "I cannot fathom why he would do such a thing, but the evidence, as scant as it is, points in his direction."
Ville felt a shiver run down his spine as he observed Minerva's sincerity. The fear in her eyes mirrored his own, yet there was a determination there, a readiness to face the consequences of her words. His mother, the Queen, listened attentively, her grip on him and Teodor never faltering.
"I understand that this is a grave accusation, and I assure you, Your Majesty, I would not make it lightly," Minerva continued, her voice steady despite her inner turmoil. "But the safety of your sons is of paramount importance. Please do not hesitate to ask if there is anything more I can do to assist you."
Ville suddenly felt mixed emotions: fear for what had transpired, gratitude for Minerva's honesty, and an overwhelming sense of belonging and acceptance. He clung to his mother and brother, the woman who had welcomed them into her arms, feeling the strength of her love and the fierce determination in her eyes.
In that moment, Ville realised their family's power, the unspoken bond that held them together. And as he gazed at his mother, he knew that no matter the challenges they faced, they would meet united, wrapped in the warmth of her love and the shield of her unwavering resolve.
After the conversation concluded, the Queen nodded gravely at Minerva McGonagall, acknowledging the gravity of the crisis. With a final, reassuring squeeze, she let go of Ville and Teodor, her eyes promising protection and justice.
"Boys," his mother said, "go with Lady Astrid; she will take you home. I will be home soon, but now we must take care of this."
Ville wanted to stay with his mother but dared not contradict her word, especially in public. He turned away from her, keeping his head down.
Minerva inclined her head respectfully, her expression still laden with concern, before following the Queen and her advisors out of the space, leaving Ville and Teodor with Lady Astrid.
With Lady Astrid leading the way, the two boys returned to the enchanted coach that had brought his mother and the Royal Court to Hogsmeade. Its majestic form loomed in the darkness, its Abraxan guardians standing regally by its side. Ville hesitated momentarily, his eyes still drawn to the retreating figures of the Queen and Minerva. Ville was shaken from his thoughts as Lady Astrid's gentle voice brought him back to the present.
"Come, boys," she said kindly, her voice like a soft melody. "We shall return home now."
Teodor offered his brother a reassuring smile before they climbed into the carriage. Once inside, they felt the gentle lurch as the Abraxans prepared to take flight. Ville clung to Teodor's hand, his gaze still reflecting the turmoil of the night's events.
One would think that I'm the older one with how you behave. Teodor's silky voice filtered through his mind as he stared out the window.
You are, he grumbled back, stiffening his posture. Or did you forget that you're from the FUTURE?
No need to get all fussy, darling. Teodor's voice came back swiftly, and Ville scoffed.
"Did I miss something?" Lady Astrid asked mildly, her eyebrows raised.
"No." Both boys denied, looking to either window as the coach rose into the night sky.
Ville stole one last glance at the imposing silhouette of Hogwarts Castle, its towers looming against the moonlit sky. He took a deep breath, finding comfort in the familiarity of his brother's presence despite the boy's annoying anecdotes. It helped that the Abraxan wings fluttered gently in the sky, the steady rhythm of them lulling him into a sleep that seemed to come from exhaustion and an overwhelming sense of fear that was finally tapering off.
With Astrid's soothing presence and the safety of the enchanted coach surrounding them, Ville and Teodor began their journey back home.
It would definitely be a story to tell his friends one day. That the famous Headmaster of Hogwarts is actually a murderer.
Ville was being lifted, carried somewhere, but where was a mystery, and why he was being held was another, yet the most important thing was who was holding him. He knew he was not in danger, so he allowed himself to stay limp and not move nor speak. Ville could hear people talking, and it seemed they were talking about him, yet he paid them no mind.
He was comfortable and could feel the soft, steady swaying as he was cradled and felt the strong, safe arms wrapped around him, holding him up, keeping him secure. He felt the heat radiating from his escort and could smell the familiar smell. Jannik, it had to be. It was a comforting thought, having his big brother near him again.
As if he had spoken aloud, Jannik said, "Hey, Ville, I'm taking you to bed, alright? You can rest, and in the morning, we can talk and catch up, okay?" Ville smiled at his big brother and let out a slight hum of agreement before drifting back to sleep.
"He needs to take his Potions!" Another voice interjected, clearly unhappy. "At least give him a sleeping draught so he won't have nightmares. Teodor, you need them too."
"I think not," Teodor said firmly, sitting on the bed with Jannik.
Ville rolled over and grunted, opening his eyes, a scowl on his face.
"For the love of God, Tay, take the damn potion and shut up! I'm trying to sleep!"
Ville could see Lady Astrid gesturing to Jannik, who sighed. "Both of you have gone through trauma and need a lot more Potions than just a sleeping draught, but we wanted you to calm down first. So let's everyone take this now, and tomorrow we will talk."
Grudgingly, Ville sat up. His body felt as if he had really hit the ground harder than he had, and he wondered if it was psychological.
Suddenly, a snake slithered towards him, and Miss Anderberg released a startled yelp.
"My snake!" Ville said excitedly. "~Come to me, my precious.~" Ville hissed to the animal, which eagerly slithered against him, curling around him like a blanket.
"Have you named him yet?" Jannik asked, gingerly reaching forward to stroke the snake's head.
"No, I haven't. I'll ask what it wants to be called."
"~Do you have a name you'd like to be called? And are you a girl or a boy?~" A strange hissing sound followed, and Ville realised the snake was laughing.
"~You're my danger noodle," Ville explained.
"~Call me anything you like, Speaker. I'd prefer masculine names.~"
"~How about Monty Python?~"
"~I'm a boa constrictor, thank you very much."
"It's meant to be silly; there's a group of comedians... Anyway, I like it. Monty.~"
"~His name is Monty~," Ville said, glancing at them, grinning, and covering him and Monty with the blanket.
"English, Ville," Jannik said, rolling his eyes.
"Oh," Ville responded. "Er, Monty. His name is Monty."
"You still need to change, Ville," Jannik said, ruffling his hair. "Miss Anderberg, go ahead; don't mind his grumpiness."
Half asleep, Ville allowed Miss Anderberg to change him, vaguely aware of the goings on around him. Jannik was changing himself, and Teodor, too, refused the help. The latter still refused to take the sleeping draught, and Jannik gave up, getting under the covers along with Ville.
And then the lamps were off, and the silence filled the room.
"~Good snakey,~" Ville heard Teodor hiss as he crawled into bed on Ville's other side, but he was too far gone to comment. His brother knew Parseltongue.
Ville woke to the gentle sounds of the morning, his body still cocooned in the warmth of the bed. Stretching languidly, he realised that all three of them had slept together last night, likely feeling the need to sense the realness of the other's presence. Ville realised that he had slept really well snuggled in between the warmth of his siblings.
Their presence offered a strange sense of comfort amid the unfamiliar surroundings of the grand bedroom. Regardless, Ville slipped out of bed, tiptoeing so quietly that even the floorboards didn't creak.
It was dawn; the pinks, purples, oranges, and blues slowly crawled into the sky, and it never ceased to amaze Ville with the absolute beauty of it all.
He padded to the ensuite bathroom, the cool marble beneath his feet sending a shiver up his spine. The morning shower was a ritual that grounded him, the steady stream of water washing away the residue of sleep and uncertainty. It was something Ville got used to very quickly, and it easily became his favourite part of the day.
He stood beneath the warm spray, his thoughts drifting to the previous day's events.
It still felt unbelievable, and he hoped to see his mother immediately after so he could figure out what she had done about it.
The water cascaded over his skin, a soothing caress that eased the tension in his muscles.
Ville took care to love his new body, for it was entirely different. Utterly flawless, no marks from Uncle Vernon, no pain, scars or any lingering remnants of his old life.
He realised with a shock that he loved himself. It was such a nice thought that he laughed, rubbing his hands everywhere he could reach to celebrate himself.
He was a freak no longer. And the best part about it was Uncle Vernon would never recognise him again.
With every drop splashing against him, he felt the weight of the past lifting, renewing and rejuvenating him. His mind cleared, leaving room for new thoughts and feelings. What happened yesterday was now a thing of the past. It didn't need to matter. He was safe now. And he wouldn't make the same mistake twice.
Ville closed his eyes, allowing the water to wash away not just the physical grime but also the lingering traces of fear and uncertainty. In this small sanctuary, he found solace, a brief respite from the complexities of his new life, no matter how great it already was.
A hum burst forth as he scrubbed his skin, a tune from so long ago that Ville couldn't fathom how he still remembered it.
The young boy wasn't sure how long he stood there under the stream of water, but by the time he was done, the sun was all the way up in the sky, and the soft murmurs of his brothers reached his ears.
As he emerged from the bathroom, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. The day ahead held challenges and uncertainties, but for now, he was determined to face them with a brave heart and a clear mind.
Wrapped in a fluffy towel, Ville stepped down the stairs and into the welcoming arms of Jannik and Teodor.
"Come, Your Highness," Miss Anderberg said. "Your brothers are already dressed."
Ville nodded and sat down, allowing the woman to dress him, for that, too, was part of the process, and he found it pleasant to be taken care of, respected and cherished for who he was. A completely different life than he had just some days earlier.
And he loved it.
The three brothers descended the grand staircase together, each step echoing in the vast hall. Ville couldn't help but marvel at the elegance of the palace, the ornate chandeliers casting a warm, golden glow over everything. Teodor and Jannik moved with a confidence that Ville admired, their tall figures reflecting the regal posture they had learnt.
When they reached the dining area, a rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods enveloped them. The room was already bustling with activity, and Ville's eyes widened as he took in the opulence of the breakfast spread laid out on the table. Delicate porcelain plates were adorned with fruits, pastries, and an array of enticing dishes.
As they approached the table, Ville felt the scrutiny of the unfamiliar man sitting at the head of it. The man was imposing, but Ville couldn't shake the feeling that something was amiss. He was completely different from the rest of the family, with his white hair and piercing blue eyes, so unlike Ville's and his brothers'. Ville's unease deepened under his gaze, and he shifted uncomfortably in his seat.
"Father," Jannik says stiffly, moving towards his usual seat.
Oh. That definitely changes things.
"Funny of you to finally show up," Jannik continued, staring into his plate.
"Your mother requested I stay here for a while as she has to take care of things abroad." The man, apparently their father, says.
"Today." Their father says out loud, "You two will get etiquette lessons from the same tutor Jannik had."
Jannik stiffened further, and Ville didn't understand why until another man entered. But really, calling him a man was wrong. Their father, while hardly a man, was at least 27 years old. The person who entered after was definitely still a teen.
"This," Their father announced, seemingly finding it perfectly normal when the boy put his hand around his neck and sat down directly on his lap. "Is August."
Jannik scoffed but kept his eyes to himself.
"Have something to say, Jannik?"
"No, sir," Jannik responded, glaring.
Their father's announcement hung in the air like a heavy cloud, and Ville exchanged a quick, puzzled glance with Teodor. Casually sitting on their father's lap, August's presence seemed odd and out of place. Yet, the dynamics between the three were evidently familiar, even if Ville couldn't fathom their nature.
August's eyes, the same shade of chocolate brown as Jannik's, scanned the room briefly before settling on Ville. Ville shifted uncomfortably under the scrutiny, his unease growing. There was something disconcertingly intense in how August looked at him as if trying to unravel the layers of his thoughts and emotions.
Stay composed, Teodor's voice whispered in Ville's mind. We need to adapt to this situation and understand the rules of this new world.
Their father's voice cut through the tension, explaining the importance of the etiquette lessons they would receive. As he spoke, Ville found himself glancing toward Jannik for guidance. Jannik's face was a mask of stoicism, but the tight line of his jaw hinted at the anger simmering beneath the surface.
Jannik knows something, Ville thought, glancing at Teodor, his curiosity piqued. We need to find out more.
Throughout the meal, August's presence loomed large, his gaze often lingering on Ville, making him acutely aware of his every move. The weight of expectation settled on Ville's shoulders, urging him to be on his best behaviour, to conform to the norms of this unfamiliar world.
We must be cautious, Teodor's voice echoed in Ville's mind. Observe, learn, but reveal nothing.
As the breakfast conversation continued, Ville forced himself to pay attention, to absorb the intricate details of Pureblood etiquette shared by his father. The lessons were not just about the right fork to use or the proper way to address elders; they were about survival in a world that demanded conformity, where every gesture and word carried immense significance.
And so, Ville sat in silence, absorbing the lessons that would shape his future, his mind whirring with questions, uncertainties, and the pressing need to uncover the secrets hidden beneath the surface of his newfound reality.
"These are just examples of what you will learn." The King said, staring at him and Teodor. He stood up, lifting August easily to stand on his own two feet. Ville looked away at the strange intimacy.
"Henrik, what will we do now?" August asked their father, and the man shrugged, eyeing Ville and Teodor suspiciously.
"I didn't realise there were two of you," Henrik said, folding his arms across his chest.
"We're twins," Ville said before he could stop himself.
Henrik raised his eyebrows.
"Right," he snarked, "And when is your birthday."
"July 31st,"
"December 31st."
Henrik stared.
"Ah! I mean December 31st!"
"July 31st!"
Ville turned to look at Teodor, scowling. What the hell are you doing? Ville asked Teodor, trying to avoid trembling at the overbearing stature of their father. Play along, for the love of God! Teodor responded.
He crossed his arms, too, but kept his eyes on Ville.
"I know you like attention, Ville, but you can't change our birthday just because you want to be older."
"Teodor is right, Ville." Jannik said, seemingly catching on. He wrapped Ville in his arms and gently carded fingers through his hair. "It's okay to be young; you will eventually grow older."
Ville nodded, unable to avoid his lip trembling and a few tears splashing over his face. Jannik wiped them and held his arm out for Teodor.
Getting the message, Teodor scampered over and, for the first time, properly nuzzled against Jannik, who laughed.
Ville couldn't understand why they were making a performance for the two who were staring at them. Still, he would follow Jannik and Teodor anywhere.
"Lessons begin in an hour!" August called after them.
He was ignored.
"I should have come out as gay immediately instead of suffering." Ville heard Henrik say quietly to August.
Jannik herded them out quicker, and when it was clear they were alone, Jannik slumped onto the leather sofa, taking deep breaths.
"Dear Merlin, I hate him," Jannik muttered, his voice shaking.
Teodor glanced at Ville, who nodded, and the two of them surrounded Jannik on the couch, one arm around his shoulders each.
"Who?" Ville asked though he had a sneaking suspicion he knew already.
"Henrik...Father... whatever. I hate him."
"What happened?" Teodor asked, leaning forward to give Jannik his utmost attention.
"How old do you think Father is?" Jannik asked instead, closing his eyes and leaning against the soft leather.
"I thought around 27 or 28. Henrik looks really young."
"Exactly. Father is 27."
The boys nodded.
"And how old am I?" Jannik pressed, opening his eyes with a desperate look that Ville had never seen before.
"12? It's your second year at Durmstrang, so I guess around 12." Ville answered this time.
"Father made Mother pregnant when she was 14. It was the biggest scandal in Sweden, apparently. But I guess because they are royalty, they easily made the bad press disappear. She had me when they were both 15.
"Wow, I didn't realise Mother is so young!" Ville said, amazed.
"Why is this a reason to hate him?" Teodor asked, but Ville already knew.
"He's dating that boy," Ville responded, his voice hollow. "That's why. I knew there was something off."
"Yes." Jannik scowled. "He cheated on Mother."
The silence was so loud it startled them all when the gong rang for lessons.
"Please come with us to lessons!" Ville begged, clinging onto Jannik's hand.
Jannik didn't deny him immediately. Instead, he took a good look at Ville and eventually nodded, standing up.
"Alright," he said. "Let's go."
The three brothers, Ville, Teodor, and Jannik, found themselves in a spacious waiting area adorned with modern furnishings. The walls were painted in calming shades of cream, accented with intricate gold patterns that gave a touch of elegance to the room. Large windows let the sunlight stream in, glowing warmly over the polished marble floor.
With a stern expression, Jannik kept a watchful eye on his younger brothers, his protectiveness evident. Ville, feeling uncomfortable, fidgeted in his seat, glancing repeatedly at the door. At the same time, Teodor tried to hide his unease with a calm exterior. He remained frozen in place, like a statue.
The air was thick with tension, the unspoken resentment between the boys and their father simmering beneath the surface. They knew August's arrival was imminent and, with it, the start of their etiquette lessons. The thought of spending time with the man their father had betrayed their mother with made their skin crawl, but they were bound by their royal obligations.
As they waited, Jannik's gaze never wavered from the door. He couldn't shake off his possessiveness over his younger siblings, especially Ville, who seemed to draw more attention than Teodor. The seconds dragged on, each ticking of the clock echoing in the room, heightening the tension.
When August finally entered, his arrival seemed to fill the room with an air of authority and confidence. His posture was impeccable, and his eyes held a knowing glint, aware of the discomfort he caused within the trio. Ville and Teodor tried to maintain their composure, but Jannik's jaw clenched visibly.
"You don't belong here," August said, pointing a finger at the door.
Jannik scoffed, standing to his full height. "You don't own me." He replied back, quite fiercely. "I'm not going anywhere."
August shrugged, and Ville found great comfort in how the older boy's face flushed at the resistance. Jannik 1 August 0.
The lessons began with the basics of table etiquette. August's voice was smooth and cultured as he guided them through the correct use of cutlery and the nuances of Pureblood dining customs. The boys listened, albeit reluctantly, as they absorbed the information they needed to blend into the world they were born into.
After the table etiquette lessons, they moved on to the intricate knowledge of Pureblood lineage, standing postures, and proper ways of addressing others. August's instructions were precise, his gaze occasionally flickering towards Ville, who felt the weight of his scrutiny.
As the day progressed, August led them to the palace's private stables for equestrian lessons. Despite his discomfort, Ville found solace in the majestic horses' presence. August's guidance helped them gain confidence in the saddle, teaching them the art of horse riding with patience and expertise.
Following the equestrian lessons, they headed to the palace's private swimming pool for instructions on swimming. The water was cool and inviting, and August's experienced guidance made the learning process smoother. Ville and Teodor, although initially hesitant, soon found themselves adapting to the water's embrace under August's careful tutelage.
Throughout the lessons, Jannik observed the interactions keenly, his protectiveness unwavering. He silently stewed in his jealousy, unable to quell the unease at August's presence in their lives and how much attention he gave to Ville.
The day wore on, each lesson seamlessly blending into the next until the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over the palace. Despite their initial reservations, Ville and Teodor found themselves learning, slowly adapting to the Pureblood lifestyle that awaited them at Durmstrang.
And amidst the lessons, beneath the veneer of royal obligations, lay an undercurrent of emotions — resentment, jealousy, and an unspoken vow to protect one another in the face of a world that seemed determined to change them.
The grand dining hall of the palace was filled with the tantalising aroma of a freshly cooked meal. The table, adorned with exquisite silverware and fine china, was set for a royal feast, yet an air of tension hung over the room. Ville sat at the ornate dining table with his brother, Teodor, and their older brother, Jannik. Their mother was finally home, yet their father remained, his enigmatic presence casting a shadow over the room. It didn't help that August sat beside him, hand inching ever closer to their father's.
Dinner proceeded as if life were entirely ordinary. Still, Ville couldn't shake the feeling that something was about to disrupt the fragile peace they had found. He glanced at his brothers, who wore expressions mirroring his own unease.
Suddenly, the silence of the evening was broken by the soft hoots of owls outside the dining hall's arched windows. Owls of all shapes and sizes soared gracefully towards them, each carrying a letter sealed with the emblem of an Ice Phoenix – the symbol of Durmstrang Nordrake Academy of Sorcery.
His heart skipped a beat as he realised the significance of those letters. Memories of the previous day, when they narrowly escaped an attack orchestrated by Dumbledore, flooded back. Fear gripped him, and he found himself unable to reach for the letters, his hand trembling with trepidation.
Henrik, expecting excitement and joy, was puzzled by their hesitance. "What are you waiting for? Open your letters," he urged, but the boys remained frozen in their seats.
"I'm not touching another letter until it's checked," Jannik declared, his voice firm. "Not after what happened."
The Queen intervened swiftly, her magic gently scanning the letters to ensure their safety. With a reassuring nod, she handed the letters to Ville and Teodor, her touch tender against their cheeks.
Ville's fingers trembled as he opened the envelope. Inside, he found a parchment bearing the official seal of Durmstrang Nordrake Academy of Sorcery. With a deep breath, he began to read.
Dear Mr Olsen,
We are delighted to extend our warmest congratulations to you for your acceptance into Durmstrang Nordrake Academy of Sorcery! It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to our esteemed institution, where the pursuit of magical knowledge and the honing of extraordinary abilities are paramount.
Durmstrang Nordrake Academy of Sorcery has a long-standing tradition of excellence in magical education, and we are confident that your unique talents and dedication will enrich our school community. Your acceptance into our academy reflects the exceptional potential we see in you, and we look forward to guiding you on your magical journey.
Enclosed within this letter, you will find a list of required textbooks and school supplies necessary for your coursework. Please ensure that you are fully equipped for the upcoming academic year, which begins on the 1st of September. Additionally, we have included detailed instructions about your House assignment, class schedule, and other pertinent information. Also enclosed is your travel itinerary. Please be sure to read it over.
Please take the time to familiarise yourself with the Durmstrang Nordrake Academy of Sorcery campus and its various facilities provided in the booklet within your envelope. Should you require any assistance or have specific questions, do not hesitate to contact us. We understand that this transition can be overwhelming, and we are here to support you in every way possible.
In addition to the school books and supplies, we have included a comprehensive list of pet allowances and restrictions, as well as guidelines for extracurricular activities and sports teams. We encourage you to explore the diverse opportunities available at Durmstrang Nordrake Academy of Sorcery, from joining one of our renowned Quidditch teams to participating in our robust debate club.
A carriage will be sent to your residence to transport you to our Flight Carriage Terminal on the 31st of August, departing promptly at 9 a.m. Please be ready at least thirty minutes before departure. We eagerly anticipate your arrival and look forward to welcoming you to our magical community.
Once again, congratulations on your acceptance, and may your time at Durmstrang Nordrake Academy of Sorcery be filled with knowledge, camaraderie, and countless magical adventures.
Yours sincerely,
Erik Nordahl
Deputy Headmaster
Durmstrang Nordrake Academy of Sorcery
Enclosed Letters:
Durmstrang Nordrake Academy of Sorcery
School Supplies List
Dear Students,
We are delighted to provide you with the list of essential textbooks and school supplies for your magical education at Durmstrang Nordrake Academy of Sorcery. Please ensure that you have all the items listed below before the start of the academic year on the 1st of September.
Essential Textbooks:
- Nordic Spells and Charms: Volume I-V by Astrid Bjørnsen
- Magical Creatures of the Scandinavian Wilderness by Einar Skovgaard
- Runes and Runic Magic: An In-Depth Study by Freja Kristensen
- Potions and Elixirs of the North by Sven Olafsson
- The Enigmatic Art of Seidr: A Comprehensive Guide by Ingrid Dahl
- Curses and Counter-Curses: Mastering the Dark Arts by Kjell Eriksson
Parchment and Writing Tools:
- Parchment
- Quills (at least three)
- Bottled Ink (black or blue)
- Roll of Spellotape
- Self-Inking Quill (for convenience)
- Pencil and Eraser (for Muggle Studies)
- Pocket-Sized Spellbook for Quick References
Magical Equipment:
- Cauldron (Standard Size 2)
- Glass or Crystal Phials
- Brass Scales
- Wand (Note: The wand chooses the wizard; please do not purchase before arrival)
- Telescope
- Set of Brass Compasses
- Set of Measuring Cups
- Magical Draughting Set (for Runes and Arithmancy)
- Protective Gloves and Goggles
Uniform:
- Durmstrang Robes (in the respective house colours)
- Winter Cloak (Fur-lined for cold weather)
- Dragon-hide Gloves
- Dragon-hide Boots
- Warm Winter Scarf
- Formal Dress Robes (for special occasions)
- House Badge (provided upon arrival)
Miscellaneous Items:
- Crystal Phials (for potion storage)
- Small First Aid Kit
- Money (for Fjordvik trips)
- Pocket Sneakoscope (optional)
- Magical Chess Set (optional)
- Self-Cleaning and Repairing Broom (optional)
- Personalised Stationery Set (optional)
Please note that pets are allowed at Durmstrang Nordrake Academy of Sorcery. However, they must be registered with the school and comply with our Pet Policy.
We eagerly anticipate your arrival at Durmstrang Nordrake Academy of Sorcery and look forward to a magical year of learning and discovery. Safe travels to all students!
Yours sincerely,
Erik Nordahl
Deputy Headmaster
Durmstrang Nordrake Academy of Sorcery
The evening moon cast a warm, silvery glow across the elegant dining room of the palace. Ville sat at the table, his fingers tracing the edges of the acceptance letter from Durmstrang Nordrake Academy of Sorcery. The parchment felt smooth under his touch, yet his heart was a tumultuous sea of emotions.
Beside him, Teodor mirrored his expression, his eyes flickering between excitement and apprehension. Their mother observed them with pride and concern, her eyes soft with understanding.
Ville's gaze shifted from the letter to the darkness outside the window. The sprawling grounds of the palace were shrouded in shadows, and Ville felt a strange kinship with the night. He, too, was stepping into the unknown, a world where magic was both enchanting and perilous.
"Ville," his mother's voice interrupted his thoughts, drawing his attention back to the table. She reached out, her hand resting gently on his. "It's a wonderful opportunity, my love. Durmstrang Nordrake is a prestigious institution, and I believe you both will thrive there."
Ville managed a weak smile, his lips curving upward despite his apprehension. "I know, Mum. It's just… overwhelming."
"You don't have to worry," Teodor interjected, his voice calm and reassuring. "We'll face it together, just like always."
Ville nodded; his brother's unwavering support momentarily lifted the weight of his worries. Still, the thought of leaving the safety of the palace and venturing into a world where danger lurked made his stomach churn with anxiety.
As the night deepened outside the window, Ville clutched the acceptance letter, the words "Durmstrang Nordrake Academy of Sorcery" etched in his mind. He knew the challenges ahead were as vast as the starlit sky, but he also knew his family was by his side.
"I'll be there too," Jannik spoke up gently, "And on the trip over, I'll tell you everything about Durmstrang. It will be alright."
"I'll be there as well," August added, then blushed when everyone in the room turned to stare at him.
"Don't remind me," Jannik snarled.
"Jannik." Henrik scolded, but the boy ignored him.
"Alright," Ville said finally when the tension got so thick he was sure he could cut it with a knife. "I'll go."
And if August looked a little too thrilled about the idea, he effortlessly turned away and ignored it.