Caim – (n.) Scots Gaelic – "sanctuary"; an invisible circle of protection, drawn around the body with the hand, to remind one of being safe and loved, even in the darkest times

1. Trapped In The Corner

'Who cares what kind of skills we have? We are Slytherins but more importantly: Pure-Bloods. We will get any job we want', said Draco Malfoy confidently while most of his classmates nodded to his words.

The 6th year Slytherins were in their common room in the dungeons. Draco Malfoy and his inner circle occupied the comfortable black leather wingchairs and sofas, the less popular students stood in the corner and at the hearth. Professor Severus Snape, the Head of the House stood in the middle of the room. With his tall dark frame, black hair almost reaching his shoulders, piercing dark eyes and an everlasting scowl on his face under a big nose, Snape was quite a sight. Most of the students feared him in Hogwarts. Hearing the word "Pure-Bloods" he shot a look to a student in the back of the room but didn't say anything.

'While it is important to have a noble family and be the member of an excellent house, Draco, it is just as important to have decent grades and the necessary skills to find a job. That is why I will consult each one of you in the following weeks. This is your sixth year here, the penultimate year, consequently it is utmost important to decide what will you do after your NEWTs and graduation.'

'But Godf… Professor Snape, do we REALLY need those NEWTs?', asked Malfoy mischievously, 'We expect… some changes in the Ministry and in the whole wizarding world…'

Snape looked at him with an emotionless face but he didn't miss when a student in the corner flinched.

'If there would be a change, as you assume, Draco, the wizarding world will still need competent and well-trained wizards and witches. I will notify you all about your consultation appointments. Now, go back to your tasks.'

He looked back again the student in the corner. The girl with shoulder-length blonde hair and cat-like green eyes looked back at him. Snape silently swept out of the common room. The young witch sighed and looked at her watch: she had an hour before the library closes. She grabbed her school bag and hurried out of the room.

It's been already six years and no one from her house found out her secret. There were only two people in the castle who knew the truth about Alice Jennings: Albus Dumbledore, and Severus Snape.