Ch 25

A/N: Hey guys I'm so sorry for the long wait on this chapter. I originally was going to have it go over the entire year, but realized that it would be ridicuously long. So here is the first part of three. Hope you enjoy.

The excitement Victoria felt at the prospect of returning to Hogwarts was beyond anything she could say. Hogwarts was the place that she felt was her home above all others. Although she knew that this year was going to be different, seeing as she was now a protector instead of a healer or teacher, she was more than ready to leave.

Leaving the flat that morning with her trunk tied under her broom once more, she felt like she had four years before. This time both Remus and Sirius were there to see her off, Remus with a slight smile on his face, and Sirius not even trying to hide his hurt. Stepping over to Remus first she smiled hugging him, "Keep in touch okay. Your secrets out now, you can come see me any time."

Pulling back from her Remus nodded, "I do not think it would be for the best, but I will see you when I can."

Victoria looked slightly hurt, but knew it was still hard for Remus. Turning to Sirius she saw a tear form in the corner of his eye. Wiping it away she asked, "What's this?"

He pulled her into a fierce hug, "I just got you back. How can you be leaving already?"

"I'm going to protect all the kids. That means your godson too," she answered pulling slightly back from him, but he did not release her.

"Take care of yourself," he said, staring into her eyes.

She laughed lightly, trying to break the intense mood, "Those kids will have more to worry about with me there than I will."

He took her hands and gave her a piercing look, "Vicky I mean it. After what happened at the World Cup, we aren't safe anymore. Just be careful."

Nodding, she hugged him again and turned away. Mounting her broom she smiled, "I wouldn't mind seeing a big black dog at Hogwarts now and then either."

Sirius gave her a small smile and waved as she kicked off the ground. Remus turned to Sirius, putting an arm around his shoulders, "She's a stronger woman than you know Sirius. She can take care of herself."

Sirius nodded, turning to Remus, "I know she is, but we all need someone to take care of us sometimes."

Remus nodded, "I suppose so."

Sirius looked away from him, watching Victoria fly away into the distance. Turning back to Remus he said, "I hope you find someone for you Moony. You deserve it."

Remus gave an unconvinced look, "There is no one for me. Who would want to deal with my problem?" He turned away starting back to the flat.

Sirius followed him, both stopping just outside the door, "There's someone out there Moony. Some free spirit that won't mind your little furry problem."

Remus chuckled, "When you meet her Padfoot, please point her out to me will you."

Smiling Sirius opened the door to the flat, "You've got it my friend."

Shaking his head Remus followed him.

…

Victoria arrived at Hogwarts as usual too late for breakfast. Heading towards Dumbledore's office a thought suddenly hit her, she had no idea what the new password was. Turning around she went back down the stairs she'd just climbed and headed down a different corridor. Stopping in front of massive double doors she took the handle opening them slowly. Stepping inside she saw the familiar room, beds were lined up along two walls with curtains around them. Two large cupboards stood at the other end of the room, holding various potions. Off to the side was a door that stood open, presumably where Victoria would find who she was looking for.

Moving towards the door, Victoria could hear a soft humming coming from the doorway. Laughing lightly she stopped in the doorway, watching as Poppy hummed to herself while working on some paperwork at her desk. Victoria chuckled, "Some things never change."

Startled, Poppy nearly overturned her ink bottle, her head shooting up. A smile grew quickly on her face, "Victoria," she exclaimed getting up from her chair to envelop her in a warm hug. "How are you feeling?"

Victoria laughed, of course that would be the first question from Poppy, "I'm much better. My chest still hurts occasionally, but that is where all three spells hit. The healers said it will get better over time."

"When did you get here?"

"You're my first stop," Victoria smiled when Poppy released her.

Poppy looked surprised, "To what do I owe the honor?"

"I had to come see my favorite mediwitch."

Poppy smirked, but gave her a skeptical look, "Although I appreciate the compliment, I have known you long enough to know that's not the whole truth."

Victoria laughed, "Okay, you're right. I was halfway up to Dumbledore's office when I realized I didn't know the password."

Just as Poppy was about to answer, they heard another voice from the outer room, "Poppy I…" Minerva trailed off seeing Victoria standing in the doorway.

"Minerva!" Victoria exclaimed, pulling the older woman into a hug.

Minerva was surprised, but hugged her back, "Victoria, I was not expecting you this early."

Pulling back Victoria shrugged, "The Ministry wanted me here a few days early to check out your security."

Minerva huffed, "The Ministry, you mean the Minister."

Victoria nodded, "Yeah, but this means I get to spend a few extra days hanging out with you guys," she smiled at the two women.

Minerva gave her a small smile in return, "It is nice to have you back."

"Thanks." A moment later she turned serious, "I should probably get going. Dumbledore told me to see him as soon as I got here."

"Oh, right." Poppy spoke up for the first time since Minerva entered, giving the two a moment. "The password is ice mice."

"Thanks Poppy. I'll see you both at dinner." Victoria said walking back out of the room.

Poppy smirked at Minerva as the other woman watched the girl leave. "Happy to have her back?"

"Yes, however, it makes not being able to tell her all the harder," a tear formed in the corner of her eye.

Poppy put a comforting hand on Minerva's arm, "You know it's for the best."

Minerva nodded, giving Poppy the tiniest of smiles, "I know, nevertheless it does not make it any easier."

…

Arriving in front of Dumbledore's office a few minutes later she knocked and waited for an answer. Hearing him call her inside a moment later she opened the door, seeing him sitting at his desk. The stack of papers in front of him was so high his nose nearly touched it as he bent over. She chuckled as she stepped over to the desk, "I see you have your work cut out for you."

He smiled upon hearing her voice and got up from his desk, "Ah, the plight of a headmaster."

Stepping over to him she pulled him into a hug, "It's good to see you Albus."

"You as well. It is good to see you out of a hospital bed," he smiled tightening his hold on her for a second and then pulling away.

"Thank you again for coming to see me. I know you were busy," she said indicating the stack of papers on his desk.

He became very serious, the twinkle in his eyes leaving and the smile was nowhere to be seen as he said, "You are more important than any piece of paper."

Seeing the honesty of his words she simply said, "Thank you."

Nodding he took a step away from her, "How was your month holiday?"

Groaning she rolled her eyes, "I felt like I was living with two teenagers. I don't mind living with just one of them, but get the two together and they are horrible."

He chuckled lightly, "I would not expect anything different from those two."

Changing the subject she asked, "Who have you found for Defense this year?"

A twinkle came back to his eyes as he smiled, "That is a surprise for you my dear."

She eyed him curiously, but decided not to push it. Instead she asked, "So Professor, what would you like me to start with today?"

"For today, I was simply going to allow you to relish being back in the castle. You had said the last time we spoke that you had missed it. This will be your last opportunity to enjoy it before most of the teachers return." He answered, returning back to his desk.

"So who else is here?"

"Hagrid, as he lives on the grounds; and Severus arrived a few days ago," he answered watching her closely over his half-moon glasses.

Trying hard to hide the happiness that she felt hearing that Severus was there as well, she simply let the corners of her mouth raise saying, "Wow, not many."

"No," he smiled watching her try and fail miserably to hide her feelings. "Dinner has been a small affair lately."

She smiled, "Well Professor, it looks like you need to get back to work. And I need to find my rooms."

"Ah, I thought we would get around to that. I have you set up in your old rooms, next to the hospital."

Looking at him curiously she asked, "Doesn't Poppy have a new apprentice?"

"Alas no one is in need of her guidance this term. She claims she will be able to muddle through alone." He answered slightly sadly, worrying about the older woman working by herself.

Victoria smiled, "I will help her out as much as possible. Well Professor, I guess I should be going. I'll see you at dinner."

"Until then." He smiled, watching her leave. Words could not express how happy he was to have her near to him once more.

…

Victoria hadn't really been paying attention to where she was going in the castle, just enjoying meandering through the corridors after she'd left Dumbledore's office. Suddenly she found herself going down some very familiar steps. The air was colder down here and the corridors were dark, lit by only torches set into the walls. Smiling she realized where she'd unconsciously gone when she stopped in front of a dark wooden door. Knocking lightly she heard the scraping of a chair on the stone floor and a moment later the door was opened. He stood before her, looking exactly as he had the last time she'd seen him. His hair fell around his shoulders like a dark curtain, his black robes wrapped around him as if they were wings. Seeing her he gave her an almost imperceptible smile, "Victoria."

Giving him a wide smile she pulled him into a hug, "Severus! I missed you."

Uncomfortable, he pulled away. Clearing his throat he replied, "Yes, well… it is good to see you feeling better."

"Thank you," she said brightly, watching as he stepped aside so she could enter the room. "I wanted to say thank you again for coming to see me in the hospital. It really meant a lot."

"You are welcome," he answered turning away from her to sit back at his desk.

"So, what's been going on? I haven't talked to you in a while," Victoria asked taking a seat in front of his desk.

"There is little to tell," he said easily sitting back in his chair.

"Come on Sev, there's got to be something."

He knew Victoria hadn't meant anything by it, but he couldn't help the stunned look on his face.

Noting the change in is demeanor she quickly asked, "Is something wrong?"

"It is nothing," he shook his head, but did not meet her eyes.

Victoria put her hand over his that was resting on the desk, "Please Severus, what is it?"

He finally looked back up at her, her eyes searching his. "There is only one person who called me Sev."

Realization dawned on Victoria. Squeezing his hand she said, "I'm so sorry Severus, I didn't…"

Cutting her off, he gave her a quick smile, "It is alright."

After a few minutes of awkward silence, where both wracked their brains for something else to talk about, but could come up with nothing, Victoria finally said, "I'm sorry, you're probably busy. I'll let you get back to work. I'll see you at dinner." Getting up from her chair she quickly crossed to the door.

"Very well. I will see you then," he opened the door for her and watched as she nearly ran back down the hall. She felt like kicking herself for bringing up a bad memory for him, it being her last intention. All she wanted to do was talk to her friend, but of course she messed that up.

…

That night after a wonderful dinner, full of her favorite food and some of her favorite people, she found herself back in her rooms. They looked as if she hadn't left them, everything was exactly the same. Just as she'd found a comfortable spot in front of the window she got a surprise as a beautiful eagle owl swooped into it. Landing on her shoulder she took the letter from its beak and it flew out again.

Opening it she instantly recognized the large, slightly sloppy writing.

Victoria-

I'm sorry I couldn't tell you about this earlier, but I have decided to go underground for a while. I care for you and Remus too much to risk either of you getting into more trouble if anyone should find me here. I know you are in safe hands with Dumbledore, but please take care of yourself. Watch out for that godson of mine, he'll be a handful. Please don't worry about me, I'll be fine. I'll be in touch when I can.

Sirius

Setting the letter down on the table next to her she looked back out the window. Where could he be running to? He had a perfectly good hiding place with Remus. They had already checked their flat when Sirius had escaped and knew that he wasn't there. How could she not worry about him? He'd just escaped Azkaban and everyone was still looking for him. Looking up at the sky she silently prayed to anyone who was listening to keep him safe.

…

The night of the start of term feast began with a bang, literally. A storm had blown in earlier in the day and thunder was booming loudly across the soaked grounds. The wind roared so fiercely outside that the windows rattled and the corridors whistled. Victoria had never been so happy to have the Auror trench as she had been standing outside greeting the carriages as they arrived at the castle.

After the sorting was nearly finished Victoria took her normal place in between Poppy and the chair she knew to be reserved for Minerva. Poppy beamed up at her as she sat down. Leaning over to whisper in Victoria's ear she said, "It is so nice to have you home."

Victoria smiled whispering back, "It's good to be home."

A moment later they watched as Minerva took the sorting hat and stool away. Albus got up and opening his arms wide smiled saying, "I have only two words to say to you. Tuck in."

At these words the plates in front of them filled with different delicious foods. As Victoria started to fill her plate Minerva took her seat, "Oh, there seems to be more first years each year."

Poppy laughed, "That's only because we're getting older."

Minerva shot her an indignant look, "Speak for yourself."

"I am speaking for myself." Poppy countered, spearing a piece of potato with her fork. "However if I were only to say I was getting older I would be lying."

Albus turned to the women, his eyes twinkling merrily, "I am curious. If, as you say, you are getting old, what would that make me?"

Victoria couldn't help the small chuckle that escaped her. Poppy laughed openly, "My dear headmaster. That would make you ancient."

Minerva baulked, "Poppy!" she shouted. Albus however was laughing.

Raising her hands between Poppy and Minerva, Victoria stopped them, "Ok, ok. New subject."

Minerva huffed, remaining silent. Poppy couldn't suppress the smile that remained across her face. Albus was finally the one to speak up, "How was your summer Victoria?"

"It wasn't bad. I was really upset when Moody retired, but I understand it. I am going to miss him though." Victoria answered sadly.

The other three shared a knowing look, unnoticed by Victoria as she had her head down, pushing food around her plate. Smiling Albus said, "I am certain you will see him again."

Shrugging Victoria nodded, "Yeah, but it's not going to be the same. I mean I saw him every day for three years. Now I might see him once a year."

Choosing to change the subject before they gave away the surprise Poppy asked, "How is Miss Tonks doing?"

"Tonks is doing great. She's been out on assignments with Kingsley mostly. They like us to be with another Auror since we're still new." Victoria answered almost wistfully.

Minerva put a comforting hand over her's, "You will see her before you know it."

Smiling back at her Victoria agreed, "We're supposed to meet in Hogsmeade next month."

"See now," Poppy smiled, "nothing to worry about."

"And how is Mr. Lupin faring? I have owled him however it seems he has been busy as of late. I have yet to receive an answer." Albus asked taking a forkful of treacle tart.

"Yeah, Remus has been busy lately." Victoria averted her eyes quickly, "Still looking for a new job."

"I am sorry to hear that." Albus answered, looking down at his plate as well, the puddings suddenly not looking as appetizing to him. "When he put in his resignation I had tried to persuade him to reconsider. Alas he would not."

Victoria nodded, "I know. He said you did too much for him just by giving him the job. It was too much to ask you to deal with all the owls from angry parents."

Chuckling lightly Albus countered, "I fear I was forced to deal with the owls regardless of his resignation."

"I'm sorry." Victoria answered pushing her plate away, "That was the last thing that was supposed to happen."

Albus looked at her seriously, "I knew the ramifications of hiring Mr. Lupin when I asked him."

Victoria simply nodded watching as the food on the plates disappeared leaving them a gleaming gold. Albus turned his attention back to the students at that moment. Getting to his feet he smiled around at them, "So! Now that we are all fed and watered, I must once more ask for your attention, while I give out a few notices.

"Mr. Filch, the caretaker, has asked me to tell you that the list of objects forbidden inside the castle has this year been extended to include Screaming Yo-yos, Fanged Frisbees, and Ever-Bashing Boomerangs. The full list comprises some four hundred and thirty-seven items, I believe, and can be viewed in Mr. Filch's office, if anybody would like to check it.

"As ever, I would like to remind you all that the forest on the grounds is out-of-bounds to students, as is the village of Hogsmeade to all below third year."

Turning back to the staff table he beamed down at Victoria. Knowing what was coming she blushed brilliantly. Starting again he gestured to her, "I am sure some of our older students will remember Professor Knight from Defense Against the Dark Arts a few years ago." A few cheers echoed through the hall as he said this, most predominantly from the Weasley twins. "She has agreed to come back this year, after finishing her Auror training, not to be a professor, but to help with security." There was a buzz of confusion through the hall as he said this. "This brings me to something else I must tell you."

Waving his hands Albus quieted them down again, "It is also my painful duty to inform you that the Inter-House Quidditch Cup will not take place this year. This is due to an even that will be starting in October, and continuing throughout the school year, taking up much of the teacher's time and energy- but I am sure you will all enjoy it immensely. I have great pleasure in announcing that this year at Hogwarts-"

An ear-splitting rumble of thunder sounded, cutting off Albus, while the doors to the Great Hall burst open. Seeing a man standing in the doorway in a black cloak, leaning against a walking stick, Victoria knew him instantly. His scarred face was sure to frighten anyone who did not know him; however he was a welcome sight to her. Watching as he clunked his way to the front of the room, his magical eye swiveling around taking everything in, she couldn't stop the smile that broke out across her face. He stopped in front of Albus for a moment, taking the older man's hand. Albus smiled, saying in a hushed voice, "Alastor, I am glad you could make it tonight."

Moody nodded his head, unsmilingly, grunting, "Wasn't sure I would. Bloody weather."

Albus nodded, gesturing to a seat next to Poppy. She beamed at him as he took a seat, leaning over to whisper, "I am so happy to see you."

Moody speared a sausage, not looking at her and growled, "Aye, you too."

Poppy gave him a curious look, but tried to shrug it off, listening as Albus started speaking again, "May I introduce out new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher? Professor Moody." The only clapping that could be heard came from the staff table, as the students sat staring at the man.

Albus cleared his throat, continuing on, "As I was saying, we are to have the honor of hosting a very exciting event over the coming months, an event that has not been held for over a century. It is my very great pleasure to inform you that the Triwizard Tournament will be taking place at Hogwarts this year.

Fred Weasley could be heard over the din of voices, shouting, "You're joking!"

Albus let out a soft chuckle, "I am not joking, Mr. Weasley, though now that you mention it, I did hear an excellent one over the summer about a troll, a hag, and a leprechaun who all go into a bar –"

Minerva cleared her throat loudly, giving him a look of irritation.

"Er – but maybe this is not the time…" he said looking back at Minerva nervously, "no…" he said sheepishly, and then turned back to the students, "where was I? Ah yes, the Triwizard Tournament… well, some of you will not know what this tournament involves, so I hope those who do know will forgive me for giving a short explanation, and allow their attention to wander freely.

"The Triwizard Tournament was first established some seven hundred years ago as a friendly competition between the three largest European schools of wizardry: Hogwarts, Beauxbatons, and Durmstrang. A champion was selected to represent each school, and the three champions competed in three magical tasks. The schools took it in turns to host the tournament once every five years, and it was generally agreed to be a most excellent way of establishing ties between young witches and wizards of different nationalities – until, that is, the death toll mounted so high that the tournament was discontinued." At the words death toll Poppy gave a slight gasp, while Victoria gulped, realizing her job would be harder than she'd originally imagined.

Albus continued, "There have been several attempts over the centuries to reinstate the tournament, none of which has been very successful. However, our own departments of International Magical Cooperation and Magical Games and Sports have decided the time is ripe for another attempt. We have worked hard over the summer to ensure that this time, no champion will find himself or herself in mortal danger. This is also why we have Miss Knight back as a full-time security guard.

"The heads of Beauxbatons and Durmstrang will be arriving with their short-listed contenders in October, and the selection of the three champions will take place at Halloween. An impartial judge will decide which students are most worthy to compete for the Triwizard Cup, the glory of their school, and a thousand Galleons personal prize money.

"Eager though I know all of you will be to bring the Triwizard Cup to Hogwarts, the heads of the participating schools, along with the Ministry of Magic, have agreed to impose an age restriction on contenders this year. Only students who are of age- that is to say, seventeen years or older – will be allowed to put forward their names for consideration." An uproar sounded as Albus said this, drowning out the deafening sound of the thunder. "This," he tried unsuccessfully to start again, raising his hands the crowd mellowed slightly, "is a measure we feel is necessary, given that the tournament tasks will still be difficult and dangerous, whatever precautions we take, and it is highly unlikely that students below sixth and seventh year will be able to cope with them. I will personally be ensuring that no underage student hoodwinks our impartial judge into making them Hogwarts champion. I therefore beg you not to waste your time submitting yourself if you are under seventeen.

"The delegations from Beauxbatons and Durmstrang will be arriving in October and remaining with us for the greater part of this year. I know that you will all extend every courtesy to our foreign guests while they are with us, and will give your whole-hearted support to the Hogwarts champion when he or she is selected. And now, it is late, and I know how important it is to you all to be alert and rested as you enter your lessons tomorrow morning. Bedtime! Chop chop!"

As everyone else got up from the table Albus came to sit next to Moody. Victoria got up, putting a hand on Moody's shoulder, leaning down to him, "Couldn't even handle retirement for a month huh?"

Moody growled back, "No, not really one to sit around."

She squeezed his shoulder lightly, "It's good to have you back."

He grunted, nodding his head, but his eyes held a confusion she couldn't understand. Shrugging it off, she followed Poppy and Minerva out of the Great Hall. Turning to Minerva she asked, "Why didn't anyone tell me he was going to be teaching this year?"

Minerva gave her a smirk, "Albus wished to keep it a surprise for you."

Shaking her head, Victoria smiled, "It's a great surprise."

"I'm glad you approve." Minerva stifled a yawn, "I'm sorry ladies. I must retire. Have a good evening."

"Good Night." Victoria and Poppy called in unison after her as Minerva started up the stairs.

Heading down the corridor together Poppy turned to Victoria asking, "Did something seem… off about Alastor tonight?"

Victoria thought about it, and then waved it off, "He was probably just nervous being around that many people."

Poppy nodded, but still seemed unconvinced, "Perhaps."

Arriving at Victoria's portrait hole a moment later they said their good nights and went their separate ways. Stepping through her portrait Victoria smiled seeing Regina curled up on the bed, looking completely content. Victoria chuckled getting ready for bed. As she slipped into the covers she couldn't help but agree with Poppy, something did seem off with Moody. Shaking her head Victoria snuggled down into the covers, pushing the thought out of her mind as sleep took over quickly.

…

Gray clouds still rolled across the sky as Victoria walked through the castle the next morning. Walking through an outside corridor she pulled her trench coat a little closer against the breeze. As she walked into the entrance hall she noticed a little girl standing in the middle of the room crying. Her Gryffindor robes hung limply on her shoulders as her body wracked with sobs. Victoria immediately went to the small girl, bending down to her, saying in a comforting tone, "What's wrong honey?"

Sniffling, the girl looked up at her, using her sleeve to wipe her eyes, "I can't find the entrance to the dungeons anywhere."

Victoria smiled at her for a moment, "It's okay. The first day I was here I got lost too. Come on I'll show you."

She gave Victoria a watery smile, "Really? Thank you."

"No problem." Victoria answered, leading the girl to a staircase just to the left of where they stood. Looking down at the small girl Victoria asked, "So what's your name?"

"Natalie," she said with another sniffle, "Natalie McDonald."

"Well Natalie, I'm Victoria, it's nice to meet you," Victoria smiled at her, reaching the bottom of the stairs. As Natalie descended Victoria pulled out her wand and did a simple spell making any evidence of her previous crying unnoticeable. "If you have any other problems this year, please come find me. I will be happy to help."

Natalie gave her a genuine smile, "Thank you." Then looking to the door her eyes got wide, "Oh no! I'm late! What am I going to do? I heard Professor Snape is…"

Placing a hand on Natalie's shoulder, Victoria cut her off, "Leave Professor Snape to me." Pulling the door open Victoria saw Severus standing at the front of the class, just beginning the class.

Startled, he was quiet for a moment, but his voice quickly came back to him, "Miss Knight."

Victoria gently pushed Natalie in front of her, "Professor, I found one of your students. Natalie here got lost."

He didn't say anything, instead motioning to an open seat. Natalie didn't waste any time jumping into the seat at the front of the classroom.

Victoria smiled, "I trust you will not be taking any points from Gryffindor for this?"

"Indeed," he answered in an icier tone than she was used to hearing.

Turning to leave, she stopped just inside the door and turned back to him, "And I'm sure there's no need for a detention. You remember your first days in the castle and how difficult it can be to find your way."

"Thank you for finding my student Miss Knight," he answered giving her a curt nod.

"You're welcome Professor. Have a good lesson." Victoria smirked as she left the room, pulling the door shut behind her.

…

Later on that day Victoria was patrolling the grounds. The students were through with their lessons and many of them had chosen to join her in the outdoors, the sounds of their laughter and talking filling the courtyards.

Being covered in mud from the still drenched grounds, she decided to head in to change before dinner. Just as she opened the doors to the entrance hall she came upon a queue of students all trying to make their way into the Great Hall. Six students, all looking to be around fourth years caught her attention as she tried to sidle past them. Three of them, boys, were dressed in Slytherin robes. One, a pale, blonde boy was speaking very loudly, seemingly reading an article from the Daily Prophet which he held in front of him. The other three, a girl and two boys, whom were dressed in Gryffindor robes, listened on with a look of utter loathing. The taller of the Gryffindor boys, lanky with bright red hair, seemed to be shaking in anger. Listening she heard the shorter of the Gryffindor boys, the one with messy black hair say, "Get stuffed, Malfoy. C'mon, Ron…"

Continuing to watch, but reaching into her robes for her wand just in case, Victoria saw the blonde boy show the other a picture from the paper, saying, "Oh yeah, you were staying with them this summer, weren't you, Potter?" She recognized the plump woman from the picture instantly. The night they had met would be burned into her memory forever. "So tell me, is his mother really that porky, or is it just the picture?"

'Potter, so this must be Sirius's godson.' Victoria thought to herself watching as he held back his friend with the help of the Gryffindor girl. Harry shot back at Malfoy, "You know your mother, Malfoy? That expression she's got, like she's got dung under her nose? Has she always looked like that, or was it just because you were with her?"

Victoria tried with all her might, but couldn't suppress the smirk that crossed her face. This was most certainly Sirius's godson. Sirius was right; he's going to be a handful. Thinking that the feud was over when Harry turned away from Malfoy, Victoria relaxed a bit and put her wand back into her robes. Turning away to continue on in her search of clean robes she was shocked when she heard a loud bang echo through the corridor.

Turning back, her wand already drawn, another bang sounded from in front of her on the stairs. Hearing the familiar roar of Moody saying, "OH NO YOU DON'T, LADDIE!" She watched as he limped past her towards the small group, his wand pointed at a shivering white ferret. Shaking her head to clear it, thinking she was seeing things, Victoria looked from the ferret back to Moody. She knew that there was a conversation going on with between Harry and Moody, but she was in such shock she couldn't hear it. Watching in a stunned silence as the ferret bounced off the stone-flagged floor and back into the air, she couldn't believe that this was the same man who she'd been working with for three years.

A moment later another voice pulled her out of her daze saying in a shocked tone, "Professor Moody!" Minerva pushed past her quickly, a pile of books in her arms.

Moody calmly acknowledged Minerva, continuing to bounce the ferret higher, "Hello, Professor McGonagall."

"What – what are you doing?" she asked, her eyes focused on the ferret.

"Teaching," he answered coolly.

Dropping her books, Minerva cried, "Teach – Moody, is that a student?"

He gave a nod, "Yep."

Pulling out her wand Minerva screeched, "No!" Instantly a loud pop echoed through the hall and Malfoy reappeared, looking much worse for the wear, wincing as he got to his feet. Minerva turned back to Moody, this time giving him a stare anyone else would have cowered from, "Moody, we never use Transfiguration as a punishment! Surely Professor Dumbledore told you that?"

Moody scratched his chin indifferently, "He might've mentioned it, yeah, but I thought a good sharp shock…"

Minerva glowered at him, "We give detentions, Moody! Or speak to the offender's Head of House!"

"I'll do that, then." Moody growled glaring at Malfoy.

Realizing that the immediate situation was over Victoria was just about to withdraw back to her rooms to change when she heard Minerva call to her. Turning back around she found herself also on the receiving end of one of Minerva's scowls, "Miss Knight, what happened here?"

"I'm sorry Professor," Victoria said giving Minerva a sheepish look, feeling like a student herself in that moment. "I thought that the situation was over when Potter had turned away, but then there was a bang. I realized that Malfoy had taken his wand out and I was just about to break in when Moody shot. Before I could even turn around Moody had him transfigured and bouncing off the floor."

"Why did you not step in at that time?" Minerva fumed.

"I was in such shock I couldn't even move. I still can't believe that Moody would do that. It's not like him at all." Victoria answered her brow furrowing.

"Be that as it may," Minerva huffed, "you should have had the presence of mind to step between them."

Victoria dropped her eyes to the floor, "I'm sorry Professor. You're right."

Turning on her heel without another word Minerva picked her books back up and made her way into the Great Hall. Victoria retreating the other way to her rooms, continued to think over Moody's odd behavior. Last night she could ignore, but Moody physically hurting a student was something different. She knew that her job here was to watch over the students, but she knew she would now be watching him as well.

…

A few days later, Victoria was on patrol yet again. It was a rather quiet night; most of the students had already retired to their dormitories for the evening. That was until she came across a short, round faced, blond boy who was shaking.

As Victoria approached him he jumped in fright, emitting a small squeal. Victoria put a hand on his shoulder comfortingly, "I'm sorry. I really didn't mean to scare you. Is everything ok?"

The boy gave a slight nod, but she could feel him quivering under her hand. Smiling reassuringly she asked, "What's your name?"

"Neville," he answered shakily, "Neville Longbottom."

"Well Neville, can I ask what happened?"

"I melted my cauldron in Potions. I've just gotten out of detention. Professor Snape made me disembowel a barrel of horned toads." Holding up his hands she saw the evidence smeared across them.

"He made you do that?!" She asked aghast.

"Yeah," Neville said looking like he was going to vomit right here. "He knows I have a toad, it's why he did it."

"Don't worry Neville; I'll talk to Professor Snape, alright?"

His face suddenly drained of color, "No! Please don't. It'll only make it worse."

Victoria gave him a sympathetic look, smiling, "Ok I won't say anything. I promise."

"Thanks," Neville turned away up the stairs, still looking like he was going to lose his lunch at any moment.

Deciding it was time to pay her friend a visit, Victoria made her way to the dungeons.

A few minutes later Victoria found herself in front of Severus's door. Knocking, she expected to be called to enter; instead she waited for a few seconds in silence. Suddenly the door swung open with Severus standing in front of her looking like he was ready to hex who so ever was to disturb him. Unconsciously taking a step back she found herself with her back against the cold stone wall. Fixing his dark eyes on her he drawled, "Miss Knight."

"Severus, do you have a minute? I think we need to talk." She said nervously, never having seen the anger she now saw in his eyes.

Unmoving, he crossed his arms saying, "I am at a loss to see what it is that you could wish to discuss."

Shaking her head she decided to just start, "Why did you make Neville gut a barrel full of toads?"

His expression darkened further, "I do not see how it is any of your concern how I choose to discipline my students."

"Severus, I know you're upset with me. That is no reason to take it out on the students." Victoria retorted.

"Mr. Longbottom's penchant for destruction in my classroom has nothing to do with my current abhorrence towards you."

"Abhorrence!" she gaped at him, not realizing he was as upset as he was. "That's a bit harsh don't you think?"

His voice lowered a bit, "I believe I have every right being vexed. Your actions in my classroom were indecorous."

"Are you still mad about that?" she threw her hands in the air angrily, "Come on I was just trying to help the girl out."

"Be that as it may," his voice took on an even harder tone, "you have no right telling me how I should handle my students."

She looked at him incredulously, "Severus, she was terrified. When I found her she was standing in the hallway crying her eyes out. Then when I got her to your classroom she was petrified to go in. She thought you were going to have her head."

"It is still not under your authority to tell me how to deal with my students."

Her voice softened a bit looking at him seriously, "You really don't remember what it's like, do you? That first day in the castle, being terrified about finding your way to your classes and getting there on time, let alone actually learning magic. Looking up at the teachers, terrified; knowing that they know far more than you could ever wish to know. You've forgotten all of it."

Exasperated he started again, "I do not see how that has anything to do…"

"That has everything to do with it!" she shouted. Obviously startling him as he took a step back. She sighed, regaining her composure, "What happened to you Severus. You can't be as callous as you seem. I know you're better than this."

He leaned into her, growling in her face, "You humiliated me in front of those students. I have worked for years to gain the reputation for excellence I have. I must show each class that I am in charge, not you, and certainly not them."

"I understand that but…"

"If you have come here to apologize you are doing an atrocious job of it." He cut her off, crossing his arms again.

"I never came to apologize for that. I still agree with what I did," she answered indignantly. Then taking a deep breath to calm herself her tone softened again, "I came to apologize about the other night. I am sorry for bringing up those memories for you. It was unintentional."

He seemed to deflate in front of her, his arms uncrossing, and leaning up against the doorframe, "You could not have known it would bring up the past."

"That doesn't mean I don't feel bad about it." She looked up at him dolefully.

"There is no need for you to regret your words," he answered softly.

"So are we good?" she asked studying him.

"I still disagree to what you did in my classroom," he said with a dark look.

"Ok, I promise I won't say anything in front of the class again." Pausing she searched his eyes again, "So are we good?"

He scowled at her for a moment, and then gave her the tiniest of smirks, "Indeed."

She gave him a big smile, "Good." Then shocking him she pulled him into a hug and as she pulled away she brushed her lips to his cheek. "I'll see you at breakfast."

He watched her turn and start back down the corridor, his hand over the place on his cheek that she'd just kissed leaving it tingling slightly. Before she disappeared he called, "Victoria."

Whirling around, she asked, "Yeah?"

"You can call me Sev, if you choose," he gave her a slight smile.

She grinned broadly, "Thank you… Severus."

…

A/N 2: Hey again. Ok, so I know most of you are wondering what the little part about Nataile was, well I recently found out something really interesting. If you have a chance I beg you to check out Bethune, Brian. "The Rowling Connection: How a young Toronto girl's story touched an author's heart," Maclean's, 6 November 2000 on Accio Quote. I was in tears.

But since I know most of you don't have time I'll paraphrase. Basically there was this little 9 year old girl in Canada with Leukemia, named Natalie McDonald, who was in love with the HP series. When JKR was working on the fourth book a family friend emailed, faxed, and sent a letter to JKR's editor. JKR (being the amazing person she is) emailed Natalie back, but she was one day too late. So in her honor JKR put her in the book as a Gryffindor. So to honor the memory of Natalie yet again I decided to add her to this one as well.