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I.
As a teen, there was nothing more Viktor loved than Quidditch. Every waking moment was spent thinking of the one thing he loved the most. There was nothing more that he enjoyed than being on the Pitch and riding his broom. Even his studies took second priority. His Durmstrang professors looked the other way, considering how talented he was at such a young age.
Viktor spent a great deal in the Pitch, perfecting his craft, until he took notice of his teammate doing the same. He was one of the Chasers that welcomed him when he first made the team a year ago. Grozdan Kolev was a couple of years older, but didn't act like the others his age. He never turned down younger teammates when they asked for advised on how they could be better.
Viktor watched from the ground as Grozdan flew around and through the goal hoops, barely missing them as he passed without fear. He wanted to glide in the air the way Grozdan did, effortlessly and smoothly, as if he was simply floating with the wind instead of against it. It was not as simple as it looked. Viktor had to fight against nature to keep himself balanced on his broom.
Grozdan dropped with determination and pulled the front of his broom to stop himself from crashing. "Do you want to come fly with me?" He hovered close to Viktor without using much strength.
"I don't want to be a bother." His voice seemed quieter than usual. He didn't seem like the confident Seeker many of the boys his age admired for making the team at such a young age.
"Nonsense," Grozdan replied. His smile was wide and welcoming. His blond hair and blue eyes were like the sun and sky. The time spent flying on his broom coloured his skin bronze. He was a beautiful boy. "We can learn from each other. It's the Seeker's task to help the team win."
Viktor agreed and nodded. The competitiveness in him wanted to do everything he could to help his team win their matches. "I want to fly like you. Can you help me?"
"Of course. Follow me and listen very carefully."
Viktor immediately stood up and got on his broom. He floated slowly to fly next to Grozdan.
"Respect mother nature and what she gives you, the wind and your broom. Treat it as you would like to be treated." Grozdan lifted his right hand off the broom. "Hold the broom as if it were fragile. Not too tight and not too loose." He wrapped his fingers around the mahogany with a firm grip. His knuckles didn't turn white as Viktor's usually did. "It's a part of you, an extension of your body. Understand?"
Viktor loosened his hold on his broom, relaxing his grip around the wood. His fingers, arms, and shoulders felt less tense. He felt the weight of the load lifted with his new stance. He leaned forward and used his legs to steady himself.
"Fragile, remember? Let the wood breathe. Don't choke it with your legs. It will break. You are too powerful." Grozdan leaned forward, letting his hand slide along the handle. His fingers wrapped around as if it were holding a gift. The muscles on his legs barely showed. He rested his feet on the foot rest. "Use it to help guide you as well as your hands. You won't tire as quickly. Follow me." He let his broom glide along the breeze.
Viktor watched with admiration how easily he let his body relax and trust the broom. Their bodies were at its mercy. But he followed Grozdan's instructions. His fingers and legs held the broom is if were soft and would break if he held it too tightly. He made sure his feet were on the foot rest to help stir him as much as his hands did.
The feeling was anything unlike before. Viktor felt free as he followed behind Grozdan. His body felt weightless on his broom as he began slowly stirring with his hands and feet to go around the Pitch.
They flew up near the goal post and weaved through it, avoiding them. Viktor always hated going near them after he struck it during a match. It felt like he was hit by a dozen Bludgers at once.
Grozdan stopped after a couple of laps around the Pitch. "How did it feel?"
Viktor came to a halt next to him. "Freeing. I don't feel tired at all."
"Would you like to keep going?"
"Only if it's no trouble."
"Not at all. I need help with avoiding other players. I can't do it on my own."
"I will be glad to help." Viktor smiled at the thought of flying to hit someone instead of avoiding them. "It will help me as well."
Every day since that afternoon, they met on the Pitch to fly on their brooms, training on new moves and strategizing plays that Grozdan managed to create between classes and other responsibilities. Viktor practised manoeuvring his broom the way he was shown to help with his speed. When he was sure he was able to do it more easily and was comfortable, he chased Grozdan as if he were a Bludger.
They always practised until the sun began to set. It was only then they realised how late it was. They flew over the Pitch and watched the sunset. His blue eye reflected the streaks of colours painting the sky.
Once, Viktor caught himself staring at his training partner. "Beautiful," Viktor whispered. He had seen it many times before, but somehow it was different as they floated on their brooms next to each other.
Grozdan's hand reached out to touch his shoulder. "Indeed. Let's continue tomorrow. We will be late for dinner."
Sometimes other teammates joined them. It helped them with the new plays Grozdan drew up for the team to try during matches. He had several of them drawn on his book. He said that he had learned to from watching a Muggle sport.
Viktor studied Grozdan's creation, even if he wasn't part of the plays. He simply needed to catch the Snitch. But he couldn't help it. He was in awe of how Grozdan was able to visualize each player as they did their part to score.
"Get some rest, Viktor."
Grozdan patted his shoulder and let his hand rest there for a few seconds. Viktor felt the warmth of it and the firmness of his hold. He looked up from the book he had been studying since they came back from dinner. The flame from the candle made his blue eyes sparkle. It was their only source of heat, as Durmstrang only used the fireplace for magical purposes.
"Tomorrow is another day." He rubbed Viktor's shoulder before removing his hand. "Get some sleep."
Viktor couldn't wait until after their classes were done, and they would be alone in the Pitch. He nodded and got up from his seat. "Goodnight, Grozdan."
"You usually call me captain."
"We are not in the Pitch."
"Goodnight, Viktor. Sleep well."
~
Viktor always looked forward to the times they spent together on the Pitch, riding their brooms together. He didn't know when it began, but was happy during those times they were alone. It wasn't just about Quidditch, either. Sometimes they talked about life back in Bulgaria. Often talking about the future and their dreams. Viktor wanted to play for their country and make the people proud. He knew that he could have never been able to fly the way he did without Grozdan's help. The days they spent together made him a better flyer and player. He was more aware of what was going on during the match and didn't simply just look for the Snitch. He helped his teammates get into position as he flew in search of the Snitch.
Their training and hard work paid off. They won most of their matches, and it was always Grozdan who congratulated him first. He flew to him with a smile that made his heart feel odd. It beat too fast, but he wasn't winded from the match. His blue eyes gazed into his and his smile was very genuine. It made Viktor smile and feel proud for catching the Snitch to beat the other team. And winning the final match of the year was nothing like the ones before.
Grozdan flew to him and nearly caused him to fall from his broom. But he wrapped his arms around Viktor and held on tight. His scent was different from all the times they flew or sat near each other. He smelled of a cool spring day. The gentle breeze caused their brooms to collide, and Grozdan let go of their embrace.
"I knew you could do it, Viktor. You will take over once I graduate. Yes?"
Viktor felt a sinking feeling in his heart. He knew that the school year was almost coming to an end. There were only a few weeks left before they parted and went back home to their families. But he hoped that there were still months. He didn't like the thought of not being able to see Grozdan every day.
"Let's celebrate with the others."
Viktor followed and was quickly surrounded by his teammates once they landed. He was hoisted up in the air and carried.
"Viktor! Viktor!"
The celebration lasted through the night. Many stayed up as long as they could. Viktor remained awake. His thoughts would not let him sleep. Something troubled him since Grozdan reminded him that he would be graduating soon.
"Everything okay?"
Viktor shook his head before he could think. "Sorry. Just tired. I should get some sleep."
"Goodnight, Viktor," he said and patted his shoulder. "Sleep well. You deserve it."
~
The days seemed shorter, though the sun was up longer. His time on the Pitch and with Grozdan seemed to lessen. There was no reason to continue their training, but he never put away his broom in hopes that they would fly again together. Viktor wasn't quite sure what he was thinking or hoping for. The only thing he was sure of was that he was happy with Grozdan around.
Viktor put on trousers and a shirt before heading out with his broom in hand. He needed to clear his mind from all its trouble, and hoped it would lessen the feeling in his heart. It was the perfect time to fly over the grounds and mountains. The weather was just right. It was warm enough to ride without a coat on.
"May I join you, Viktor?" Grozdan asked as they bumped into each other on his way out of the dorm.
Viktor smiled. "I always enjoy your company."
"I feel the same. Let me grab my broom." Grozdan rushed to his dorm and came out after a few minutes. He had changed his clothes and fixed his hair. "Let's go up the mountains. The air is nice and clean." He led them out the castle in a hurry and got on his broom as soon as they stepped outside. "Race you there." Grozdan flew off without looking back, and his laughter could be heard trailing off.
Viktor quickly got on his broom and made sure to lower his body over the handle to gain more speed. After chasing the Snitch, he learned new ways to fly and how to better control himself and the broom. It didn't take long to catch up to Grozdan and fly next to him.
"You are better than me now. The team will be in good hands."
"Only because I had you." Viktor took his eyes off the front and turned his attention to Grozdan.
"Let's go somewhere private."
They flew up the mountains and pass the lake many were swimming in. Their brooms flew over trees and up a cliff overlooking grassy hills and castle.
The breeze was warm and gentle on their face as they landed. They laid their brooms on the green grass and walked to each other.
"It will be trouble if we are caught. It's very unsafe. Our home country, you know, there are plenty who don't approve."
Viktor nodded. He knew of the risk. But he also knew what his heart felt. All the months they spent together flying and getting to know each other has made his heart grow fond of Grozdan. He was more than a teammate and someone he admired. He moved first, taking Grozdan's hand in his. "Even if it's just today."
Grozdan entwined their fingers and closed the gap between their bodies. Viktor leaned in until he felt Grozdan's warm breath on his lips. He was nervous, unlike his first kiss with a girl he barely knew. It was after he helped win the first match two years ago when caught the Snitch.
Viktor closed his eyes and crushed their lips together. Grozdan let go of his hand and pulled him closer, placing an arm around Viktor's waist and the other over his shoulder.
The kiss quickly turned heated as both opened their mouths to taste each other. There was a roughness that Viktor felt on his chin as Grozdan's stubble rubbed against his face. He didn't care for the time being, as he embraced the moment. It would be short, but he followed his heart that wouldn't stop pounding in his ears.
They parted when it became hard to breathe. And pressed their foreheads together. "Let's go back before they start searching for us."
Grozdan was right. The castle was too strict and rules were hardly broken. It could never be.
Still, they flew on their brooms together when they had free time over the last few weeks. And met on top of the cliff overlooking the castle that held too many secrets. But there was one secret that could never be kept.
"Some day. It will be different."
"Perhaps the next century. Maybe the 2000s will bring a change we hope for."
"I hope so." Viktor leaned in and kissed his lips.
"Let's get back to the castle. The ceremony will start soon." Grozdan held his hand as they looked down the mountain. "We will always have this place. I will never forget you, Viktor Krum."
Although it broke his heart, and it had to end, he wouldn't have done anything differently.
II.
His life since Grozdan had been filled with many memories. Most of them were of Quidditch. He had not met anyone who made him feel the way Grozdan did. Though, many did try to get his attention. But he knew it was only due to his growing popularity and fame.
Viktor never imagined that he would be playing in the Quidditch World Cup before he graduated from Durmstrang. Although they lost the match, he played through the upset and ended it by catching the Snitch with a skill he learned from someone he could never forget. It was still one of the best feelings in his young life.
He filled his time by leading his team to victory two years in a row. It was an accomplishment he was proud of, and the reason he was chosen to attend the Triwizard Tournament at Hogwarts. It was a dream come true to be chosen when not many had the opportunity. He hoped that he would be chosen to compete.
Viktor was in awe of Hogwarts when they first arrived. It was larger than Durmstrang and warm. Though Scotland wasn't as cold. The castle had a cosy feel as they walked through the big open wooden doors.
Everyone had their eyes on them. They were welcomed with cheers. It was nothing new to him, though he wished that they would treat him like a normal teen. He wanted what they had, a sense of normalcy.
As visitors, they were permitted to walk around the castle as long as they remained respectful of others and quiet while classes were being taught. It was perhaps the only time there was silence around him as he walked through the corridors. The stares he was used to, but not the whispers that followed. To everyone, he was the youngest Bulgarian Seeker. But he only wished to be Viktor Krum, a Durmstrang student and Quidditch lover.
A part of him didn't feel alone when he finally crossed paths with the famous Harry Potter. He was never alone, always with friends.
Viktor had friends, but not like the ones Harry had that remained at his side. He only had fans and an entourage, using him for his fame. It was lonely not having someone he could talk to.
The tournament hadn't even started when trouble arose. A fourth name had been called, to everyone's surprise and some anger. Harry Potter, a name everyone was familiar with, was called by the Headmaster. He looked too frightened to have been the one to enter his name inside the goblet. And his friend was there once again, supporting him. Viktor had all of Durmstrang behind him, but it didn't feel the same.
~
The first time he truly noticed her, she was inside the tent with the four champions representing their school. She wasn't there for him, like the many wizards and witches that had been following him around all over the castle and grounds. She only came for Harry Potter, and so did the paper writer with her made up stories. The paper seemed to make a fuss about the two of them. She didn't seem happy to see them, but all of her attention and worry was on another. Viktor missed that connection with someone who knew him better than he did himself.
His first task was easier than he thought, though he lost points for a miscalculation. How was he to know that the dragon would break the eggs it was supposed to protect?
Viktor trained to keep his mind occupied. It always helped him, like the days he was with Grozdan, and they flew on their brooms until the sun began to set. When he was out near the lake after figuring out the next task, he was followed by a group of witches wanting his attention. There was always one sitting far from the shore with her eyes down on her books. She never seemed to notice him or that he had figured out the second task while she was there reading one of her books. It made him feel less lonely knowing someone was there with him.
One warm autumn morning as he was getting ready to swim in the lake, before anyone noticed where he was, she was sitting in the same spot. She didn't have her eyes down on her book as she always did. Neither moved for a second or two when their eyes met from afar. It was the first time in a while he felt that someone saw him.
Viktor returned the next morning, and she was there with a book on her lap. It took him a couple of tries for him to finally force his legs up the small hill instead of the lake where he needed to train before the second task.
"I'm Viktor Krum."
"I know. Everyone knows. I'm Hermione."
He had a very confused look on his face. Bulgarian and Scandinavian names weren't too difficult to say.
"Hermione. I know it may sound complicated. Hermione," she repeated.
"I would like to sit, Her-my-o-nee." He smiled proudly at his attempt.
"Close enough." She smiled at him. "You may sit."
Viktor sat on the grass next to her. Compared to where Durmstrang was located, it was warm and comfortable. "Why are you outside? The library is quieter. There are animals and creatures here. The lake makes noise when I swim."
"There were too many giggling girls following you. Makes it difficult to concentrate."
"Ah." He smiled, most of his teeth showing as he looked at her. "I wanted to talk to you, but you're always reading."
"Talk to me?"
"Yes. You're one of the few that does not care that I am a famous Quidditch Seeker."
"Oh."
It remained quiet between them as they looked ahead. A light breeze broke the surface of the lake.
"It's nice here. Very peaceful," he said.
"I can't imagine what it's like for you. Not even Harry gets flocked by many like you. And he's quite famous."
"You and Harry." Viktor turned to her. "You and Harry," he repeated.
Hermione shook her head. "We're only friends."
"I have to train for the second task. Will you be here tomorrow? I would like to talk to you again."
"It's the only quiet place in the morning. At least before everyone gets here to watch you."
"I will see you tomorrow then."
Every morning, they met on the small hill near the shore. It was the calmest moment of his day before everyone found him, and he was no longer just Viktor Krum. Short as it was, he looked forward to those minutes they spent together talking about anything that came to mind. The book she was reading. Her concern for her friend and the unknown secret task. How much he enjoyed the weather. It was perfect to fly around on his broom. But he had to train, and it had to come first. Who knows what Karkaroff would do if he didn't do his best with each task.
Viktor stood up from his seat and stared at her. "Would like to go to the Yule Ball with me?"
"Me? There are so many who would love to go with you." Her cheeks turned pink.
"I want to go with you."
"Yes. Of course. I would love to go to the Yule Ball with you, Viktor."
He smiled after hearing her say his name for the first time. "I will see you tomorrow?"
"I will be here." She smiled at him, and he turned away towards the lake.
The Yule Ball was not something Viktor expected to enjoy. He only went because he had to. As a champion, it was mandatory. But as he finally worked up the courage to ask her as his date, he began looking forward to it. There was nothing similar to it at Durmstrang.
Viktor got ready with the help of Karkaroff, who only wanted his champion to be the centre of attention. He didn't care about the Yule Ball, but who would win the Triwizard Tournament.
Hermione was beautiful in her blue dress as she descended the stairs. He couldn't help but smile at her when their eyes met. His heart began to race as she took his hand.
"You're very pretty." He took her hand and kissed it.
"You look handsome. Thank you for asking me to be your date."
They entered the hall as everyone looked on and whispered about his date. They enjoyed themselves and danced the night away. For once, he was simply Viktor Krum, her date to the Yule Ball.
Hermione was the first friend he had outside Durmstrang. It made him happy to be able to be just him and not have to live up to any expectation others had of him. She didn't seem to care too much of his time playing in the Quidditch World Cup. That night was not a fond memory of hers.
Viktor was never late for his morning swim or their meetings on the small hill overlooking the lake. She was the first one to come to mind when he was asked of the most important person to him. It was Hermione that made him feel the connection with another. But he felt betrayed when the answer was used for the second task. He never wanted to put her in danger.
"I did not know what would happen when they asked," he said, plucking one of the grass between them.
"I don't blame you," she replied and placed her hand over his. It was much smaller and barely covered his hand. "I'm kind of flattered that you thought of me."
"Why would I not think of you? Did you not enjoy the Yule Ball?"
"I had a very lovely evening with you, Viktor. I enjoyed your company, as I do every time we're together."
He turned his hand over, their palms meeting. His heart began to race the way it did before he caught the Snitch in his hand. "I enjoy our time together." He entwined their fingers, holding her much smaller hand in his. It felt right. There was no need to questions his feelings for her. "May I?"
"What?"
"Kiss you," Viktor said.
"Oh."
"Yes?"
Hermione nodded. "Yes. Sorry. I never. It's just..."
Her words were lost as Viktor leaned in, letting their lips press against each other. He placed his arm around her waist and held her close. The kiss was different from his last kiss on the cliff overlooking the castle he called home for many years. Her lips were soft against his, and tasted of fruit lip balm as he let his tongue between his. He was nervous that he wouldn't make it memorable for her. It was something he never felt before.
It slowly grew more intimate. She parted her lips and met his tongue. She held onto the lapel of his coat as the kiss continued.
Viktor smiled when she pulled away first and panted against his lips. "I hope I did not disappoint."
Hermione buried her head on his chest as he held her. He kissed the top of her head as they sat in silence.
The spring months brought flowers and the perfect weather to fly brooms that he missed so much. Unlike in Durmstrang, they weren't allowed to fly as they pleased.
They no longer met by the lake. There were too many people enjoying the warm weather and sunbathing. Students frolicked everywhere, and finding a place to be alone became a challenge. Still, they managed to sneak in time together without prying eyes and kissed where they could.
"Be careful, Viktor." She stood on her tiptoes and kissed his cheek before he had to enter the Pitch for the last task.
It never crossed his mind how dangerous it was and that death would be the outcome. Viktor didn't find out until the morning after he was told of the night's event. But there was not much time to grieve. They were told of their departure from Hogwarts following the death of one of the champions. Cedric didn't deserve to die.
Viktor found her in the Great Hall sitting with her friends. There was a heaviness that clung in the air. His feet refused to take him further than by the door as many stared at him. She came to him instead, and they walked out to the lake that held so many memories.
He took her hand in his and held it. It was all he could think of to bring her comfort. Maybe it was him that needed it. "We are leaving soon. Karkaroff refuses to stay a second longer. I did not want to leave without saying goodbye."
"So soon." Her voice was low.
"Maybe you can come visit in Bulgaria. You have my address."
"I will send you a post once everything has been sorted out. So much has happened. I still can't believe it."
"Nothing will ever be the same. Be careful who you trust. Understand?"
"You too, Viktor. Be careful." She stood on her tiptoes and kissed his lips.
"Take care, Hermione. I hope to see you again."
Viktor hesitantly let go of her hand and walked back to the ship. He watched from the stern as they sailed away, her image shrinking as they drifted further.