Ok, I'm putting in the last section of the previous chapter in here so that you guys can refresh your mind as to what happened last chapter....

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

So, where are we going?
You remember that room I mentioned earlier that I used to practice in? Noa nodded. Well, I'm going to show you that room first. Then we're taking a tour in the Forbidden Forest. Collette replied.
But I thought it was forbidden. Noa said slyly.
It is. But I've got permission from the Headmaster himself.... Collette replied.
What's the point of this field trip?
You're used to sparring against humans, right? Well, we have different enemies here. Lots of them. You need to get used to sparring against them, too. Plus, we can get that stuff out of your trunk. Collette said, turning down a hall to the right. They were now in the dungeons.
Cool. So where's this hidden training room?
Collette scrutinized the wall. Suddenly, she pushed on a brick, and part of the wall disappeared, making a doorway. Come on. she said.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


Severus followed them as far as the dungeons, almost losing them once or twice in the process. Now, where can they have gone this time? he wondered.
Suddenly, he heard feminine voices up ahead. He hurried on noiselessly, stopping in a corner.
Cool. So where's this hidden training room? That had to be Noa.
Wait. What hidden training room?
Suddenly, he heard Collette say Come on. He risked a look just in time to see Noa walk through an opening in the brick wall that he had never realized was there before. He started towards it, but the bricks materialized again, and he didn't know how to make them disappear again.
He swore softly under his breath before turning and storming back down the hall.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Knight to G3. Minerva said satisfactorily.
CRACK! The door to the staff lounge flew open and Severus Snape flew in.
Did you know that there is a secret passage in a hallway in the dungeons? he snapped.
Of course. There are lots of secret passageways down there. I suppose I haven't discovered them all yet. said Dumbledore.
I meant the hallway between my office and the school's main training room. he gritted his teeth.
Oh, that one. I built it myself. Dumbledore said proudly. Pawn to B4. he added.
And you never told me because....? Severus trailed off.
Because it was meant to be a training room for Collette while she was a student here. It was a place where she and her personal instructor could train in without being interrupted. he explained.
Personal instructor? Training? For what?
Her dance. Dumbledore said simply. Ever wonder why she doesn't know how to fly a broom? Her dance practicing went towards her recreational credits.
Why a secret room? Severus wanted to know.
Dumbledore sighed. Because, Severus, she needed solitude. It's not easy to balance something as difficult as ballet, jazz, and tap dance when you are surrounded by loads of people. Now, if you don't mind, I have a chess game to finish. he said gently.
Severus bowed before turning and leaving the room, not feeling much better about the situation. Suddenly, he turned back around, looking out the window. No, I must have imagined it.... But no, there it was! Lights shining in the forest. As if someone was using their wand to illuminate their way....but no one was allowed in the Forbidden Forest anymore, even the staff. They always steered clear of it, especially at night.
What now? he muttered as he hurried down the entryway and out towards the forest.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

There are too many of them! Noa shouted as she punched a goblin in the nose.
Collette shouted, and at least three of the slavering goblins flew back several feet. Run! They won't go past the forest boundaries!
Noa followed as Collette ran towards the opening.
Thirty feet....twenty....fifteen......

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Severus was just twenty feet from the forest entrance when Collette burst out, running.
Professor, what are you doing here? she gasped.
I could ask you the same thing! he growled. As a matter of fact, I think I will! What were you doing -
Severus! Collette! What's going on? Remus and Sirius had arrived back from Hogsmeade.
Collette! What happened? Sirius exclaimed, upon seeing a large bruise on her face.
I was about to ask her that myself. Severus snarled. Now what -
He was interrupted by a high pitched scream from the forest.
Oh no! Noa's still back there! Collette cried.
You took a defenseless muggle into the Forbidden Forest?! Severus roared.
She's not defenseless! Collette argued.
Severus swore loudly, turning to the forest - just as something small and soft ran into him.
he grunted as he fell to the ground. He was just about to push it off when he realized who was. As he looked into her eyes, he felt like his stomach had dropped to his feet.
Oh, hello, Severus. Noa said amiably. She stood up, brushing leaves off her shirt. Didn't see you there. Sorry about that.
She offered a hand to him, and he grasped it as she pulled him up. From the second they touched, he felt an electric current sizzle. Her eyes widened slightly. So, she had noticed it, too.
If the moment is over now, then could someone please tell us what is going on? Sirius said irritably.
Yes, please do. Severus sneered.
Collette informed him that it was none of his business.
None of my business! How dare you say that it is none of my business! he shouted.
Come on, Noa, let's go. Collette tossed her head as she strode forward.
Hey, wait! Sirius ran to catch up. We want an explanation. We demand it immediately!
We already said it was none of your business! Noa retorted.
Suddenly, Severus noticed that the back of one leg of her pants was torn below the calf, and that she had a long, deep gash along her right calf. It was bleeding profusely through a ragged gap in her boot.
Off to the hospital wing. Now! he grabbed her by the elbow and steered her towards Madame Pomfrey's office.
Excuse me, but I'm perfectly fine! I don't need to see a doctor! she twisted out of his grip, glaring at him.
I guess that explains why you're trailing blood all over the place! he snapped.
She turned and looked at her leg, and gasped. Oh, no, my favorite boots are ruined! she moaned.
He just stared at her. Boots? That's all you're worried about? Your boots? he said incredulously.
That's not all, but thank you for your concern. Now, where's this medical wing you mentioned?

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

You should go the medical wing too, you know. Sirius said anxiously, staring at the bruise on Collette's face. Remus had long ago bowed out, apologizing as he headed towards his own rooms.
All I got was a bruise. Noa is the one who needs stitches, but I'm not worried about her. She's been through worse, and had to heal the muggle way. Besides, muggles heal faster, remember? Gotta make up for not being able to cast a spell and automatically recover. she said as she walked briskly to her chambers.
I'm not worried about Noa, I'm worried about you!
They had stopped in front of a painting of a young woman in a yellow dress from the Victorian Era. She was carrying a white parasol, which shielded her from the sun. Well, are you going to answer my question? she said softly.
Collette, I...I've known you for a few years now. I can't imagine life without you. You are one of my closest friends. he said.
Is that all? She said it so softly that he almost couldn't hear it.
He stared at her quizzedly. What else is there to say?
She just shook her head. Very well then. She then turned and said her password, disappearing behind the painting.
Collette! Wait! he said at the last moment - but he was too late. The door had already closed. Puzzled, he walked to his own chambers. What just happened? he wondered.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Good morning, everyone! Rolanda chirped as they all trudged into the Great Hall for breakfast.
Yeah? Prove it. Noa muttered. Dumbledore unsuccessfully tried to hide a chuckle.
Don't forget, the annual staff Quidditch match is next week. Rolanda reminded them. Teams are posted on the wall.
Severus, Sirius, and Remus jumped up and scrambled towards the side wall closest to the table, pushing each other out of the way.
Severus smirked as Sirius and Remus glumly walked backed to their seats. He had obviously gotten the better team.
Minerva, have you - Severus was cut off by her hand.
I've already seen the list, and it's satisfactory to me.
Noa, don't forget - practice at two o'clock in the main training room today. Collette said as she walked in, sitting across from her. Meet me in front of those doors over there, ready to go, and I'll show you where it is.
Practice? For what? Remus inquired curiously.
We have upcoming auditions for those academies, remember? Collette's auditioning for a school that specializes in jazz dance, while I'm going for a school of ballet. Both of our auditions are in London. Noa explained.
When will you know whether or not you are accepted? Dumbledore wanted to know.
Noa hesitated. Well, the school I'm auditioning for, an academy in Madrid, will have a meeting the day after auditions. All prospective students who have performed in front of the judges will meet in the building we audition in, and they will announce who has been accepted. Auditions are held all over the world, and results are brought together by the end of the day, while the director of the academy decides who is the best.
It's different with us. Collette commented. We'll know by the end of the day. They'll probably post the results somewhere, like Rolanda did the Quidditch teams.
How many are accepted? Rolanda asked.
Usually no more then fifteen or so. Noa replied.
Out of each audition?
Out of the world. Collette corrected.
Are you serious? Minerva gasped.
Collette confirmed. But I'm not as stressed as Noa is. The academy she's auditioning for is much more selective then the Paris Academy of Dance, which is where I'm auditioning.
Would you mind if I came to watch for a bit? Since I've never seen either, I'm curious to know what kind of dances ballet and jazz are.
Noa and Collette exchanged grins before nodding. Just give us twenty minutes to warm up. Noa said.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Collette and Noa watched as Sirius zoomed past them on his broom. I always wanted to learn. Collette said wistfully. Of course, my parents wouldn't let me. They wanted me to pursue my dreams of becoming a dancer.
Do you ever regret it? Noa asked, surprised at the bitter tone in her friend's voice.
I don't know. Sometimes, like right now, I do. Other times, like when I'm performing, I don't.
I know what you mean. Noa said sympathetically.
Collette looked at her watch. It's one o'clock already. I'm going up to my room to rest a bit before practice. See you at the doors to the Hall in an hour. She waved goodbye before turning back to the castle.
Noa immediately began exploring more of the grounds.
Half an hour later, she was walking to her chambers, mentally going through the choreography to her audition routine.
So, ready to tell me what happened last night? Severus stepped out of the shadows.
Sorry, but that's between me, myself, and Collette. she said cheerfully. Now, if you'll excuse me.... she tried to walk past him, but he wouldn't move.
she said indignantly.
Not until I get an answer! he snapped.
If you must know, we had permission from Dumbledore. she sniffed.
To do what? Get yourselves killed? He hissed.
Just so you know, we weren't anywhere near being killed. Noa retorted.
Is that why you are still slightly limping? he shot back.
He failed to notice that it was on the left leg, not the right, but Noa wasn't about to point that out anytime soon.
She glared at him. I am NOT limping.
He snorted in disbelief as she pushed passed him to the stairs, pretending not to be leaning on the banister as she climbed up them.
He just walked to his office in the dungeons, immediately immersing himself into some basic lesson planning. He'd start the full syllabus tomorrow, when the rest of the staff came.
Drat it! he cursed a half hour later, as he heard loud music coming from the nearby training room. The rather heavy door to his office was closed and he could still hear the music through it.
Ten minutes later, extremely irritated, he finally got out of his chair and stormed past his office door.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Wow, this is the training room? Noa gaped at the high ceiling and the mirrors that ran the length of the room - which was rather long.
Yup. Mine was smaller, because it was just me. But this one was meant to accommodate up to fifty people at once. Collette explained.
Awesome. Hey, how are we supposed to practice to the music if we don't have a CD player in here?
Collette took out her own CD and tapped the tape with her wand. Loud music suddenly filled the room. She tapped it again, and it was silent.
Cool. Can you conjure up a barre or something? Noa asked.
Collette flicked her wand towards the middle of the room, and a barre for Noa to warm up with appeared.
Noa said happily, throwing her bag down. She got out her pointe shoes and began to put them on.
Collette tapped her CD and loud pop music began to fill the room. She promptly began to stretch to the beat of the music, going along with the rhythm.
When they had both properly stretched, they both walked to the mirror and sat down. They then promptly began to argue over who would take the floor first. Neither wanted to go first. Finally, they agreed that since Collette had two routines, she would go first, then Noa, then finally Collette again.
Collette flicked her wand and made the barre disappear before sitting down to change into her tap shoes.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Rolanda, Sirius, and Remus were walking towards the dungeon when they heard loud music.
Oh, yes, I had forgotten they were practicing today. she commented.
Think that could get any louder? Remus wondered as they got closer.
It's not that bad. Your wolf senses must be working overtime. Sirius informed him.
Full moon tomorrow tonight. Remus explained.
Sirius just nodded.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Severus had just stepped outside of his classroom when he bumped into Sirius. You! What are you doing down here? And what is that noise? he snarled.
Sounds like music to me. Rolanda informed him.
A rather distorted version of music. Remus observed.
Severus just whirled around and marched down the hall towards the training room. The others followed.
Suddenly, the music stopped, only to be replaced by a tune that sounded like it was from the roaring twenties.
Now that's music to my ears. Sirius quipped.
They turned one last corner to see the door to the training room wide open. They were just in time to see Collette strike a pose as the music stopped again.
Ugh, that was horrible! she groaned as she walked to the mirror to sit down. She was wearing black jazz pants and a dark blue fitted tank top, while Noa was wearing similar pants that had been cut at calf length, with a red halter top and a shirt wrap around her waist. Collette's shoes shoes clacked loudly as she walked across the floor.
Actually, it wasn't that bad. Noa's voice said. But where was she? Severus couldn't see her -
Oh, there you are, Rolanda. she said casually. We were wondering when you would come in. Although we didn't realize you would bring an audience. Are you going to come in or just stand there?
Rolanda walked sheepishly towards the mirror, putting a coin on the floor. Pointing her wand at it, she transfigured it into a chair. Another flick of the wand produced a cushion. The others followed suit, except for Sirius, who sat close to Collette.
Hey, where's your CD? she suddenly piped up.
In my bag. Noa replied. She was focusing on her balance at the tip of her pointe shoes.
Gods, doesn't that hurt? Sirius winced.
Nah, I'm used to it. She responded.
Are you kidding? Those things are instruments of torture. I never got used to it. That's one of the main reason's I'm doing jazz now. Collette finally fished the CD out of Noa's bag and began tapping her fingers impatiently on the floor beside her. You ready?
What does that thing do? Remus asked curiously.
Noa sighed and nodded, moving to a spot in the far corner corner of the room. As the music started, she began to flow with the choreography. For her, time had always seemed to stop as she danced, especially when she was able to really get into the part she was performing. The tempo was constantly changing, but she liked it that way. It was much more impressive to an audience and a judge when you kept them in suspense as to what was going to happen next. Finally, the music stopped, and she posed in adage for a few moments before coming out of it gracefully.
Her audience just stared.
Noa fidgeted, suddenly nervous. Why am I getting a look? she demanded.
Noa, I knew you had to be really good to get that teaching position, but....I never realized that you were that good. Collette said slowly.
That place you are auditioning for would have to be blind not to accept you. Sirius stated.
Noa said hopefully.
Collette nodded silently.
I mean, there are some spots that could use a little work.... she trailed off as she worked a couple of fouetté turns.
Sit down already. I've got to work on my other piece. Collette practically jumped out of her spot.
Excellent. I finally get to see you dance. Sirius said excitedly.
You're in for a show. Noa informed him as she sat in her friend's previous spot.
Suddenly, rock music started blaring, and Collette exhibited her routine with energy. She was a great dancer, and Noa thought she was pretty good, but was a short set that Noa thought should be changed.
Hey, that was awesome, but what if you changed this.... she demonstrated a short set, into this.... and Noa proceeded to execute a completely different set.
That's good, but what if I ended instead like this....that way, I can move into the next set easily. Collette exhibited.
Noa nodded.
Where did you learn all that stuff?
Whenever I got too stressed from ballet, I went clubbing, and picked up a few moves here and there. Noa explained.
Remus wondered.
Never mind. Noa was getting exasperated with all the confusion over the simplest muggle terms.
Look, it's 3:30 already. I'm showering and calling it a day. Don't work yourself too hard. Collette advised before grabbing her bag and leaving, Sirius in tow.
Excellent work, my dear. Rolanda praised.
How do you stand it? Those shoes.... Remus shook his head before leaving with Rolanda.
So, Mr. Potions Master, what do you think? Noa grinned.
Not bad. Not too bad. He said softly before strolling out of the training room.
She worked on a few sets before stopping, grimacing at her reflection. Her knee had been bothering her lately, and she didn't want to overwork it. After grabbing her own bag, she walked slowly back to her room.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


Thirty minutes, two pills, and one shower later Noa was feeling much better as she walked to the Great Hall for supper.
Hey, guys, how's it going? Everyone burst into conversation about what had happened during their day, most of it about the school's resident poltergeist, Peeves.
You think you had it bad? Madame Pomfrey said indignantly. You should have seen my hospital wing! Beds were overturned and medicine bottles were disarranged out of order.
Oh really? Well then, you should take a little detour through the library on the way to your wing. Madame Pince advised. I still haven't finished reshelving all the books.
Well, I'm leaving tomorrow. Noa announced.
Almost everyone chorused at once.
My auditions are Wednesday, and as tomorrow is Monday, I need to get to Madrid as soon as possible. she explained.
Well, mine are the Monday after this one, so I don't have to leave until Thursday, at the latest. Collette divulged.
When will you be back? Dumbledore inquired.
Well, the academy begins practices a little over two weeks after auditions, so I figure that I'll stop by for a few days afterwards. Noa assured him.

It's the same at the place I'm going to, so I'll also be here for a few days before heading back to France. Assuming I get in, that is. she said wryly.
You know you will! Noa scolded.
I hope so. Collette sighed.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Bye! See you later! Noa waved before getting in her car the next day. Everyone turned back to the castle as she drove off, disappearing beyond the gates.
Are you ready for your flying lessons? Sirius grinned evilly ÿ.
I guess so. Collette sighed in resignation.
Don't worry, nothing to fear! You'll be doing somersaults in midair in no time! he said cheerfully.
No problem. It's not like I'm scared or anything. Nope. Not at all. I've just got a really huge death wish. she muttered.
Oh, come on, it won't be that bad. he handed her a broom.
She gulped before following him to the Quidditch fields.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Noa took a deep breath as she stretched in the waiting room, nervously listening for her name to be called.
Alexandra Laurence. a young girl with blonde hair stood up and walked to the audition room as the person before her ran out in tears.
Yikes. Not a good sign.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Guys! She'll be auditioning any moment! Collette said excitedly when she ran into the Great Hall for breakfast the next day.
I'm sure she'll do well. She's very talented. Rolanda commented.
I know, she'll definitely make it. But she's got to be extremely nervous right now. Her place is so much more selective then most others. It's one of the top schools in Europe. Collette confided.
Well, until we know for sure, all we can do is send a little prayer her way. As for now, I expect a full class syllabus by the end of the day. Dumbledore said cheerily.
Grumbling, the staff members filed out of the room, each heading towards their respective offices.
That left Remus, Sirius, and Collette in the Hall.
All right, I want to get in at least an hour of practice before I do anything else today. Collette looked at her watch. Meet you here at noon?
Remus and Sirius chorused.
After Collette had left, Remus asked. So what do we do now?
I know just the thing! Sirius exclaimed. I recently visited the joke shop that the Weasely twins opened, and saw a fake wand that looks almost exactly like Snape's wand! he whispered excitedly.
Remus approved. So when do we switch them?
You send some kind of distraction his way - loud noises down the hall from his office, for example - and I'll switch them when he comes to investigate.
What if he brings his wand with him? Remus said worriedly.
We'll just have to hope that he doesn't. When he discovers the wand is fake, he'll take it to Dumbledore and complain. I'll run back in and put his original wand in the exact spot it was originally in.
Remus was delighted. Where's his office?

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I'll see you next week when I come back! Collette waved goodbye as she boarded the train to London.
Say hello to Noa for me! Dumbledore waved cheerfully before turning back to Hogwarts.
Remus, care to escort me back? Christiana Maxwell, the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, asked.
he offered his arm.
So, how does it feel to be the first female Defense Against the Dark Arts professor? Sirius held out an imaginary microphone.
I'm the first? she stammered, suddenly nervous about the position she had accepted.
You didn't realize that? Remus queried.
No one had told me. She replied, pride abruptly swelling up inside her.
Well, you should also be forewarned that no other professor of that title has lasted more than a year. Sirius warned her.
Well, it's no wonder. They were all men! she sniffed haughtily.
I'll have you know, I was one of them. Remus told her.
Then why are you still here? she stared.
Out of the goodness of his heart, the Headmaster has agreed to let me stay over the summer. he said dramatically.
What about when the school term begins? she inquired.
Sirius has a cabin in the Forest. I'll come by for a visit every now and then. he assured her.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

A week later.....
Collette! Welcome back! Minerva cried. Severus looked up, frowning when he didn't see Noa. Sirius jumped up to embrace her before leading her next to his spot on the couch.
Where's Noelle? She should have been back by now. Dumbledore asked.
Oh, something came up and she had to stay back a day. Nothing major. she assured them.
And how were auditions? Sirius asked.
I'm in! she squealed.
he hugged her. I knew you could do it.
How did Noelle do? Minerva asked.
She made it, too. Collette confided.
On Monday, students will arrive. Are you staying? Rolanda asked.
Well, that's up to Dumbledore. she looked at the aged wizard.
You are always welcome here. he promised.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

A few days later....
And have at least twelve inches if you plan to pass! Severus shouted after his students as they filed out of the classroom.
He sat as his desk and began to grade papers, stopping only after he had finished them. They were all from his last class of the day, and he was grateful to have them finished.
With nothing else to do, he walked into the staff room and poured himself a pumpkin juice. Suddenly, the tranquility of the room was interrupted by the door slamming open and then shut again.
What is the meaning of this? He bellowed at the perpetrators. Oh, excuse me, I thought you were students. he sneered as he shoved past a wide-eyed Noa and Collette.
Come on, Noa, no one's in here. What did she say? Collette asked.
She said that I have to stop dancing for three months and that I'm slightly underweight. Noa's mimicked.
Well, are you going to follow her orders?
Absolutely not! Noa said indignantly. There is no way I'm going to stop dancing. I've finally gotten into the Academy. I'm not going to let some quack doctor keep me from getting into one of the top companies.
But what if it gets worse? Collette protested.
What if it does? I'm a big girl and I can deal with it.
Whatever. Look, I can't prevent you from doing what you want to. That doesn't mean I approve.
I can take care of myself. Noa insisted.
Fine. Let's go see Dumbledore. He'll want to know you're here. They opened the door and attempted to make it through the crowded hallway towards the Headmaster's office.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

That night, an extra chair was added between Collette and Severus. On the other side of Collette sat Sirius, and the new muggle studies professor was on the other side of the Potions Master.
Who's joining us tonight? the new professor, Daniel Armstrong, asked.
A friend. Dumbledore cheerfully replied.
As Armstrong grabbed his fork, Severus sneered. Ever since the man had been hired, he had developed an instant case of distrust towards him. He firmly felt there was no need for a muggle studies class, much less a professor.
Whoa, Collette is that - Noa muttered under her breath as she slid in her seat.
Collette replied calmly.
Oh, hi there Professor. How are you? she chirped.
I was doing fine, thank you. Severus snapped.
She didn't want to admit that the remark had stung. She briefly wondered why it bothered her now when it hadn't before. After a moment, she began to pick at her food before eating part of a small salad.
Well, if it isn't the prima ballerina, herself. Armstrong said from the other side of Severus.
Noa's fork froze halfway to her mouth. Hello, Daniel. she said reluctantly.
Noelle. What a pleasant surprise. So, did you ever make it into some top school of dance? I know that it's been a childhood dream of yours -
Yes, I was just recently accepted. she snapped.
Only just recently? he asked sweetly.
She put her fork down on the table and growled. Literally.
So, how's the knee? he said brightly.
She suddenly pushed her chair back and stood up. I'm not feeling well tonight. I think I'll go lie down a bit. she said apologetically to the unsuspecting Dumbledore.
What did you say? Collette hissed after her friend had left.
Armstrong just shrugged and took a bite of his meat.
Excuse me. Collette followed suit after her friend. She found her just as she was leaving her room dressed in muggle clothes.
Heading to the Forest?
Alej nodded.
You know, it's not going to help your knee much. Collette observed.
I know. They walked down the entrance of Hogwarts and made a sharp left to the forest.
A few hours later, they returned to the castle, exhausted but satisfied. Doing damage to the Forest evils had really brightened Noa's spirit. They walked up the entrance way, Collette as usual without a hair out of place. Noa, on the other hand, had several visible bruises and a rip in her sleeve.
A loud gasp was heard. For goodness sake, what happened? Minerva rushed over to them. Severus was close behind.
It's just a couple of bruises. she muttered as he examined a scratch beneath the rip in her sleeve.
You're lucky you escaped with just that! he growled.
Oh, please, I knew what I was doing! she snapped. I'm going up to my room. Good night. she said to Collette and Minerva.
Been playing with fire again? Armstrong walked up.
Noa stopped in her tracks, balling her fists as she slowly turned around.
Since when is it your business what I do? she asked coldly.
It's always been my business. Besides, you know what happens when you make dangerous creatures angry. he taunted. While we're here, why are you still chasing that childish fantasy of yours? It's rubbish and you know it. You'll never -
You know what? I don't need this. Not from you. she said fiercely, not caring that the others were staring.
I should have never let you out of my sight five years ago. You'll never make it, you know. Not on that knee. his words were like a slap to her face. She jerked visibly before regaining her composure. She was, however, still trembling with rage when he said, You know that I only want what's best for you -
You want what's best for you, Daniel. But you know what? I'm not yours anymore. I don't have to answer to your demands. And with that, she sauntered off.
Armstrong started after her.
Oh no, you don't. Severus grabbed his arm. You have grounds patrol tonight!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Severus caught up to her just as she was entering her chambers.
What happened? he asked as he slipped through the doorway behind her.
You really don't want to know. she gritted her teeth.
Try me. they entered her sitting room.
Since when do you care? she rounded on him. I'm just a worthless muggle who doesn't belong in this world. All I am to you is a nuisance.
At the look on his face, she added, I overheard you say it to Dumbledore once.
Noelle - he started, but she interrupted him.
I'm leaving tomorrow. I hope that makes you happy. I can't stand it here any longer. she stomped off into her bedroom, locking the door behind her.
As for Severus, he turned and left her chambers, brooding silently. The last time I complained to Dumbledore was the day she came, right after I showed her the hospital wing. He remembered. Well, at least she got the message. And the fact that she's leaving would make things much easier around here.....
Easier to do what? Sit and pine all day? A voice poked in the back of his head.
Pine about what? He mentally sneered at it.
You know what. The voice said maliciously. Ever since that fateful day....
Oh, for......She's a muggle! A nuisance, you heard her! Not to mention a great embarrassment. He snapped.
I guess that's why you kept Armstrong back, why you followed her to her rooms, and why you are disappointed that's she's leaving. The voice said triumphantly.
He finally reached his own rooms, and reaching into a drawer, took out a sleeping potion. Throwing his head back, he swallowed the whole thing. Ten minutes later, he immediately forgot all about Noa and the voice as his head hit the pillow.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


Lunch in the Great Hall the next day was as boisterous and noisy as usual.
Noa sighed and took her usual seat between Collette and Severus.
So, the prima ballerina has decided to join us today. So, how's that knee doing? Armstrong said sinisterly.
I will not tolerate any arguing at this table! Take it somewhere else. Severus glared at Armstrong.
Noa whispered so that only he could hear. He ignored her and continued to eat his food. Noa sighed and piled a large salad on her plate.
Dumbledore is going to bring an expert on both magic and muggle dueling here today. He wants you to work with him on defense against magic spells. Collette announced.
Good idea. Noa said between bites of her salad.
Yes, it is. I wonder why I didn't think of it before. Collette frowned. Suddenly, a tall man with long brown hair walked in, smiling at students.
Dumbledore, such an honor to see you again. he bowed before shaking the Headmaster's hand.
Hello, Jack. Dumbledore said amiably.
So, where's the muggle you wanted me to meet? he asked.
She's sitting next to Professor Snape. Dumbledore nodded in their direction.
Noa stood and offered her hand. I'm Noelle Montoya. You can call me Noa. she said warmly.
My name is Jackson Klyne, but you can call me Jack in here. When we are training, it's Master Klyne. he winked.
she grinned.
Suddenly, Sirius and Collette both got up, excusing themselves as they walked out of the Great Hall. Jack took Collette's place.
So, you know t'ai chi? he asked.
Yes. My father taught it me as soon as I was old enough to learn.
Ah. Who would your father be?
Diego Montoya. she said proudly.
Armstrong dropped his spoon somewhere, and Minerva gasped. Dumbledore had a look of shock on his face. Jack, however, didn't show any reaction.
Diego Montoya, eh? I've heard of him. Very talented man. he said. Tell me, what does your father do?
Well, when we lived in America, he was a lawyer. But he retired when we moved to Spain. she informed him.
Would your grandfather be named Juan Montoya? he asked.
Why yes. she answered in surprise. How did you know?
But before he could answer, Dumbledore cut in. Noelle, why don't you go prepare the dueling room? I would like to speak with my old friend for a few moments.
She nodded and excused herself from the table.
Dumbledore, you realize what this means? Jack hissed, never taking his eyes off her until she disappeared beyond the doors.
The names of both Diego and Juan Montoya are familiar. Care to explain why? Severus asked.
Severus, Minerva, and Hagrid, could you come here for a moment? Dumbledore stepped out of hearing range of the rest of the group. Meet me in my sitting room after dinner. Minerva, please bring a certain student with you. Severus, I trust you'll collect Sirius and Remus for me? Good. Hagrid, tell Collette and send an owl to Arthur Weasely for me. Nobody is to tell Noelle, understand?
They all nodded.
Good. Go to class. Dumbledore walked back to Jack. She doesn't know anything, and it's not your place to enlighten her.
Jack nodded before strolling to the training room.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jack pointed his wand at Noa.
She ducked and the spell hit the mirror, reflecting back on Jack. He fell to the floor.
Oh my gosh, are you all right? she rushed to his fallen form.
I'm fine, thank you. Although next time you should remind me to cushion the entire floor. he grimaced.
I am so sorry. She apologized.
It's all right. You are very good at this, you know. I don't think I should have to train you much at all. he said thoughtfully. Well, that's enough for one day, anyway. Tomorrow we'll train harder. he said jovially as she groaned. Until then, you should get some rest. May I escort you back to your room? He offered his arm, and she gladly took it.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Severus was in the middle of examining potions when the Dark Mark on his arm began to burn. Grimacing, he walked into the hall.
he shouted at the animagus, who was walking down the hall. Take over my class for the day. Ask Miss Granger if you need any help. And with that, he left a bewildered Sirius standing there as he hurried down the hall.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

My loyal servants. a sinister voice boomed. I have discovered new opposition.
Whispers commenced as the Death Eaters looked around nervously.
Silence! About a month ago, the stars aligned themselves. Ten of them, as a matter of fact. They foretell of an ancient prophecy that I never thought to be true - until now.
Severus remembered hearing Sinistra talking excitedly about it one day. He hadn't realized that they foretold a prophecy. If only Sinistra had known....He thought wryly.
The stars represent ten enemies who have bonded themselves against me. Together, they are the most powerful wizards that have ever come into existence. They all will be the worst enemies we have ever faced. The voice continued.
There was a stillness in the group of followers that Severus had never felt before. It took a moment before he could distinguish what it was: fear.
Your newest task is to find these ten, and destroy them separately. Snape, you are in charge of the situation in Hogwarts. Surely Dumbledore will know who they are, if he isn't one already. I also would appreciate ten vials of your most deadly potion. The Dark Lord smiled thinly. Malfoy, you are to infiltrate the Ministry. And you.... the orders went on.
Finally, Voldemort stopped and looked around at his followers. We haven't much time. Hurry. And with that, they were dismissed.
Before Severus could disapparate, the Dark Lord called to him.
My Lord. he said in false reverence.
Ah, Snape. I have yet another task for you.
He waited to hear Voldemort's instructions.
About a month ago, an attack I ordered on Potter was foiled by none less than a muggle. Voldemort spat. I want you to find out who that muggle is, and bring her to me. The man responsible for her intervening has already faced his punishment.
Yes, Master. he bowed.
You are dismissed.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*