LYOVA RASMUSSEN - A Durmstrang Quidditch Captain.

Chapter 17 - SNOWBALLS

ALEXEJ RASMUSSEN POV - Former Durmstrang Quidditch Captain

Alexej had enjoyed his visit to Hogwarts. He hadn't seen Lyova in a long time and was stunned to know that she had all grown up. He could feel how his former teammates valued her for who she became, and she definitely was the right one to lead this team. Krum reached the Durmstrang table and sat beside him. "You've always been an early riser, Alexej." He grabbed a cup and poured some coffee.

Alex saw Krum frowning, obviously remembering the old times when Alexej made them train at 6:00 in the morning.

"Good thing Lyova is a late riser," he mumbled.

"Yeah, good for you," Alexej grinned.

"Alex." Lyova had entered the great hall and took a seat beside him.

"Morning Lev, how did you sleep?" Alexej watched his little sister. She looked a bit tired but seemed to have no hangover.

"Good," she replied shortly as she poured herself some coffee as well.

"You left quite early yesterday," Krum said suspiciously, munching a croissant.

"I was tired," she retorted.

Krum seemed to be satisfied with the answer. Alexej wasn't. For nothing in the world, Lyova would let the opportunity slip to stay at a good party. And hell yes, the party's been excellent. He stirred his coffee and watched Lyova opening the daily prophet, sports section.

"Crap," she muttered. Viktor looked up, questioningly.

"Julis is out for the rest of the season. Too many fouls."

"Was a matter of time. I don't know what you find about the Vratsas. Gargoyles is the new talk. Has been since last season," Alexej stated. Lyova pursed her lips.

"You only say that because they didn't take you."

"Bullshit," Alexej muttered. Yes, it was true. He tried out for the Vratsas but was simply not good enough at that time. But that has been years ago. And his job as a dragonolist was far better.

"I never knew you tried out?" Krum said, surprised. Alexej waved off and took another sip from his coffee. His eyes wandered to the vast clock. He sighed.

"Duty's calling."

Lyova looked up from the newspaper and pouted. "You can't stay for another day?" Alexej smirked. This pout has made him give in endless times, but not today.

"No, I have an appointment. But take my word I'll be back to see the finale."

Krum grinned. "You should really see Lyova play. She improved."

"I will, promised." Alexej got up and met Lyovas eyes, nodding towards the exit. She took the hint and got up.

"Take care, Viktor."

"You too," Viktor nodded at him before he took Lyovas opened daily prophet, indulging in the articles. Alexej and Lyova walked through the tables and exited the great hall. He turned around to her and sighed.

"Thanks for coming," Lyova said. She smiled at him, but Alexej felt that she was fighting back sadness.

"Listen, Lev. At the end of the year, you finish school, and--"

"I don't wanna think about that already," she interrupted him.

"But you should," Alexej squeezed her shoulder. "Be strong, Lyova. But please be careful as well. I don't want to hear you've been put in the hospital again."

Lyova smiled faintly. "I can't promise that."

Alexej pulled her in a firm hug. "At least, please write to me from time to time."