The innocence of childhood comes to a tragic end in the frame of this chapter as Alphonse Frankenstein, Victor's father, bears the unbearable news in his letter – William, their youngest, their joy, their pride, has met an untimely demise. Not a natural death, but the sinister shadow of murder looms over the tragedy, bringing a thick fog of grief and shock to the Frankenstein family. The cruel separation of the child from the laughter and warmth of his home is a ruthless reminder of the fragility of happiness.
In the darkest hour of need, Victor sets forth to sail the overwhelming tides of sorrow back to his home in Geneva. As he draws near, he is greeted by mountains and clear, placid waters, his childhood companions, their unchanged presence bringing a flicker of comfort. The calm, Heavenly airs, contrasting vividly with the gruesome events in Victor's life, soothe his storm-ridden heart, allowing him to draw life-affirming breaths against the detrimental calamities he has come to face.
Even as companionship, in the form of Henry Clerval, falls short against the massiveness of grief, a monstrous surprise in the gloom awaits Victor. A sudden realization bolts his body, shaking his core beliefs and sending an icy stream of dread coursing through his veins. Who has murdered his brother?
