Chapter Fifteen

Val waved goodbye to Ginny and Hermione as they crossed the room to where their boyfriends were anxiously waiting. She noted with amusement that Harry was dressed as Superman, an ironically appropriate choice for the young savior of the wizard world. Ron was dressed as a knight, although his face mask was pushed back on his head so he could converse with his friends.

Both boys stopped their conversation to openly gawk at the girls walking toward them. Pleased with their response, Val started through the throng of people already occupying the dance floor. A hand grasped her elbow, and she turned to see Oliver at her side. He wore the clothes of a king and an ornate sword hung in a scabbard at his side. She smirked at him. Let me guess, you're King Arthur, she said teasingly.

Correct, my lady. And you are Scarlett O'Hara, the heroine from one of my mom's favorite movies. Would you like to dance?

Surprised that she'd been identified so quickly, Val moved willingly into his arms and they waltzed around the dance floor with the other couples. She smiled flirtatiously as they moved in a large circle, unaware that they were being observed.

A black clad man stood in the shadows to one side of the hall, his long black hair tied back at the nape of his neck and dark eyes glittering through the slits of his black mask. A rapier hung at his side, and his feet were clad in black leather boots. He was startled from his reverie by a voice addressing him.

Ah, Severus, delighted to see you tonight. I see you managed to find the only all black costume for the ball. Zorro, if I'm correct? Quite the hero as well. Usually ended up with the girl at the end. Albus clapped a hand down on his shoulder. Don't give up hope Severus. I don't believe that you are meant to spend your life alone.

His mentor moved away, leaving Severus to his contemplation. Neither man was aware that there was another person observing the couple on the dance floor, and forming a plan. I'll take her tonight, the man whispered as he slipped away from the crowd and headed toward her quarters. The element of surprise would be in his favor tonight.