In the Great Hall

After being taken back to Hogwarts on the carriages, the students gathered on the steps, their voices harmonizing like a well-rehearsed choir. The performance filled the air with melody, setting a warm, welcoming tone for the new school year.

When the song concluded, applause echoed through the hall as the choir members returned to their seats. Dumbledore then stepped to the front, his presence commanding attention.

"Welcome, welcome to another year at Hogwarts," Dumbledore began, his eyes twinkling. "Now, I'd like to say a few words before we all become too befuddled by our excellent feast. First, I'm pleased to welcome Professor RJ Lupin, who's kindly consented to fill the post of Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher. Good luck, Professor." He motioned to Lupin, who stood up to enthusiastic applause.

Hermione leaned over to Oliver and whispered, "Of course, that's why he knew to give you the chocolate, Ollie."

Before Oliver could respond, a voice called out, "Potter. Queen. Potter! Queen!" It was Malfoy, smirking as he taunted, "Is it true you fainted? I mean, you two fainted?"

Ron and Tommy glared at Malfoy. "Shove off, Malfoy," they said in unison.

Oliver, puzzled, asked, "How did he find out?"

Hermione sighed, "Just forget it," and she placed her hand, with her engagement ring visible, on the table.

Oliver smiled at the sight of the ring, gently lifting her hand to kiss it. Hermione chuckled softly at the gesture.

Dumbledore continued, "...our Care of Magical Creatures teacher for many years has decided to retire to spend more time with his remaining limbs. Fortunately, I'm delighted to announce that his place will be taken by none other than our own... Rubeus Hagrid."

As Dumbledore motioned to Hagrid, the hall erupted in applause. Hagrid caught off guard, stood up quickly, bumping into the table and knocking over several items.

Oliver couldn't help but chuckle, his laughter helping to ease the lingering tension from the earlier events. Hermione smiled, squeezing his hand as they settled into the feast, the warmth of their connection making everything else seem distant and manageable.

Dumbledore's expression grew solemn as he addressed the assembly. "Finally, on a more disquieting note, at the request of the Ministry of Magic, Hogwarts will, until further notice, play host to the dementors of Azkaban until such a time as Sirius Black is captured. The dementors will be stationed at every entrance to the grounds. Now, whilst I've been assured that their presence will not disrupt our day-to-day activities... a word of caution."

He paused, ensuring every student understood the gravity of his words. "Dementors are vicious creatures. They will not distinguish between the one they hunt and the one who gets in their way. Therefore, I must warn every one of you to give them no reason to harm you. It is not like the dementor to be forgiving."

The hall was silent, the weight of the warning settling in. Dumbledore then added, his tone softening, "But, you know, happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times... if one only remembers to turn on the light."

The students reflected on his words, the combination of caution and hope resonating deeply. The feast continued, but the reminder of the lurking danger was ever-present, urging everyone to remain vigilant while seeking comfort in the warmth of their friendships and the safety of Hogwarts.

A little later, Hermione was talking with Dumbledore when Oliver walked over.

Dumbledore smiled warmly. "Oliver, it's good to see you, my boy. How are things?"

Oliver returned the smile. "They're good. They've gotten a lot better."

Dumbledore nodded knowingly. "I see. Well, do let me know when the wedding is for you two."

Hermione and Oliver exchanged shocked looks. Hermione asked, "How did you know? I didn't even tell you."

Dumbledore's eyes twinkled. "You're wearing a ring, Miss Granger. It's hard to miss."

Hermione blushed, glancing at the ring on her finger. "I suppose it is," she admitted with a shy smile.

Dumbledore chuckled softly. "Love is a wonderful thing, Hermione. Cherish it and let it guide you through even the darkest of times."

Oliver nodded, feeling a warmth spread through him at Dumbledore's words. "Thank you, Professor. We'll keep that in mind."

Dumbledore's expression grew more serious. "Remember, the path ahead is not without its challenges. But together, you both can face anything. Now, go enjoy the time you have left. You have a big year ahead."

As Oliver and Hermione walked away, hand in hand, Oliver whispered, "He always seems to know everything, doesn't he?"

Hermione smiled, leaning her head against Oliver's shoulder. "He does. But I'm glad he knows about us. It makes it feel even more real."

Oliver squeezed her hand. "It is real, Hermione. And I promise, no matter what happens, I'll always be by your side."

Hermione looked up at him, her eyes shining with love and determination. "And I'll always be by yours, Ollie. No matter what."

Oliver pondered for a moment before asking, "Should we tell Hagrid about the engagement?"

Hermione nodded firmly. "Yes, I think we should. He's been like a friend and mentor to us, and I'm sure he'd be happy for us."

Oliver smiled warmly at her agreement. "Alright then, let's find him after the feast."

They continued walking towards the Great Hall, hand in hand, looking forward to sharing their news with their trusted friend, Hagrid.

Later

At Hagrid's house

After the feast, Hermione and Oliver walked out into the cool evening air of Hogwarts grounds. They strolled along the path that led towards Hagrid's cabin, the castle's silhouette looming behind them under the starry sky.

As they approached, they could hear the faint sounds of creatures stirring inside Hagrid's place. Oliver gave Hermione's hand a reassuring squeeze before knocking on the door.

The door swung open, revealing Hagrid's towering figure, his eyes widening in surprise at seeing the young couple standing before him.

"Blimey, Hermione, Oliver," Hagrid exclaimed, his booming voice filled with warmth. "What brings yeh here after hours?"

Hermione smiled nervously, glancing at Oliver before speaking. "We... we have something to tell you, Hagrid."

Hagrid's eyes twinkled with curiosity as he invited them inside. "Come in then, come in. Tea's just about ready."

They entered the cozy cabin, filled with all manner of curious creatures and trinkets collected over the years. Hagrid poured them each a cup of tea as they settled at his large wooden table.

Oliver cleared his throat, taking Hermione's hand in his. "Hagrid, we wanted to share some news with you. Hermione and I... we're engaged."

Hagrid's eyes widened even further, a broad grin spreading across his rugged face. "Engaged, eh? Well, well, that's wonderful news! Congratulations, both of yeh!"

He clapped Oliver on the back with a force that nearly knocked him off his chair, then enveloped Hermione in a bear hug. "I'm so happy for yeh both!"

Hermione laughed, her relief evident. "Thank you, Hagrid. We wanted to tell you because you've always been there for us."

Hagrid beamed at them. "An' I always will be. Yeh, two make a fine pair, yeh know."

Oliver nodded gratefully. "Thanks, Hagrid. We're glad you think so."

They spent the rest of the evening chatting with Hagrid, sharing stories, and enjoying his company, grateful for his support and friendship as they embarked on this new chapter of their lives.

Oliver nodded a thoughtful expression on his face. "Yeah, it's a little while off yet."

Hagrid chuckled heartily, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Ah, time flies, it does. Before yeh know it, it'll be here."

Hermione smiled warmly. "It gives us time to plan everything properly."

Hagrid nodded knowingly. "Aye, that it does. And I'll be here to help with anythin' yeh need, mark my words."

Oliver grinned gratefully. "Thanks, Hagrid. We appreciate it."

Hagrid leaned back in his chair, his large frame filling the space comfortably. "Yeh're like family to me, both of yeh. Always welcome here."

Hermione felt a swell of warmth at Hagrid's words. "Thank you, Hagrid. That means a lot to us."

They continued to chat late into the evening, Hagrid regaling them with tales of magical creatures and adventures. As they finally bid him goodnight and made their way back to the castle, Hermione squeezed Oliver's hand, feeling reassured and happy to have shared their news with such a supportive friend.

Oliver pondered aloud, "Should we tell Professor McGonagall and Professor Snape now, or should we wait?"

Hermione considered for a moment before replying, "Maybe we should wait a bit. Let's enjoy the moment for now."

Oliver nodded in agreement. "Good point. It's not urgent."

Hermione smiled, relieved. "Exactly. We have plenty of time."

As they walked through the corridors of Hogwarts, hand in hand, they shared a quiet sense of anticipation for the future, knowing they would share their joyous news when the time felt right.

Later

At night

The boys in Gryffindor Tower were enjoying some enchanted candy that made them mimic the sounds of various animals, trains, and other vehicles.

Oliver smiled at their antics but decided it was time to turn in for the night.

The Next day

In Class

In class, Trelawney began with her mystical flair, "Welcome, my children. In this room, you shall explore the noble art of Divination. Here, you shall discover if you possess the Sight." As she stood up, she accidentally bumped into the table in front of her.

The students couldn't help but giggle at her clumsy moment.

Oliver and Hermione were seated together, quietly amused by the professor's theatrics.

Ron and Bella were next to each other, while Barry and Tommy sat nearby.

Harry was seated beside a girl whom Oliver didn't recognize.

Trelawney introduced herself further, "I am Professor Trelawney. Together, we shall cast ourselves into the future!" She chuckled mysteriously.

"This term, we shall focus on Tasseomancy, the art of reading tea leaves," Trelawney continued. "Please take the cup from the person sitting opposite you."

As students exchanged cups, Trelawney instructed, "The truth lies buried like a sentence deep within a book, waiting to be read. But first, you must broaden your minds. First, you must look... beyond!"

Hermione couldn't resist muttering under her breath, "What a load of rubbish."

Ron jumped, startled. "Where did you come from?!"

Hermione rolled her eyes playfully. "Me? I've been here all this time."

Oliver chuckled and added, "Don't look at me, Ron. I thought she was here the whole time too."

Trelawney looked at Neville and asked, "You, boy— is your grandmother quite well?"

Neville stammered, "I-I think so."

Trelawney said ominously, "I wouldn't be so sure of that. Give me the cup." She motioned to his partner to hand it over.

The boy hesitated before handing the cup to her. Trelawney examined it briefly and said, "Oh... hmm... Pity. Broaden your minds!"

She then turned her attention to the group of students, focusing on Harry, Ron, Bella, Oliver, Hermione, Tommy, and Barry.

Trelawney gasped dramatically as she looked at Team Potter Arrow. "Oh! Your aura is pulsing, dear. Are you in the beyond? I think you are," she said, fixating on Tommy.

Tommy responded nonchalantly, "Sure."

Trelawney instructed, "Look at the cup. Tell me what you see."

Tommy examined the cup and said, "Oh, yeah, um... Well, um... Harry's got sort of a wonky cross. That's trials and suffering. And, uh, that there could be the sun, and that's happiness. So, uh... you're gonna suffer..."

Trelawney leaned in, intrigued. "Hmm?"

Tommy continued, "...but you're gonna be happy about it."

Trelawney took the cup from him and immediately gasped, placing it back on the table with a look of horror.

Panting slightly, she said, "Oh, my dear boy. My dear... you have... the Grim."

The entire class gasped, and Seamus asked in confusion, "The Grin? What's the Grin?"

Bem corrected him, "Not the Grin, you idiot, the Grim. It takes the form of a giant spectral dog. It's among the darkest omens in our world. It's an omen... of death."

After Class

The team was making their way to Hagrid's as the bell tolled.

Ron asked, "You don't think that Grim thing's got anything to do with Sirius Black, do you?"

Bella rolled her eyes. "Oh, honestly, Ron! If you ask me, Divination is a very woolly discipline. Now, Ancient Runes, that's a fascinating subject."

Hermione nodded. "I completely agree."

Ron, Barry, and Tommy asked in unison, "Ancient Runes? Exactly how many classes are you taking this term?"

Hermione shrugged. "A fair few."

Ron frowned. "Hang on. That's not possible. Ancient Runes is at the same time as Divination. You'd have to be in two classes at once."

Bella said, "Don't be silly, Ronald. How could anyone be in two classes at once?"

Hermione mocked, "Broaden your minds! Use your inner eye to see the future!" and she chuckled.

Oliver smirked. "And here I thought you couldn't be sexier. You mocking someone is a turn-on."

Bella scoffed. "No, it isn't. You're just saying that because it's your precious Mia Queen."

Hermione added, "We haven't decided when to get married, okay?"

Ron grinned. "You'll be married when you turn 16, I know it. Besides, I'm sure you both don't want to wait any longer."

Harry chuckled. "I think he's right."

Tommy nodded. "I agree with that statement."

Barry chimed in. "Me too."

Bella said, "Me three."

Oliver smiled broadly. "Me four."

Everyone stopped and looked at him, including Hermione.

Oliver said, "What? It's not exactly a secret that I would marry her."

Ron laughed. "He's right."

Hermione groaned from the embarrassment of her friends and fiancé.

At Hagrid's house

Once they arrived at Hagrid's hut, he greeted them enthusiastically, "That's it, come on now. Gather 'round. Less chatter, if you don't mind."

Several students responded with, "Shh! Shh! Shh!"

Hagrid continued, "I've got a real treat for you today. A great lesson. So, follow me."

A little bit later

As Hagrid led the group into the woods, the students chattered excitedly among themselves. 

Their conversations grew even more animated when they noticed the ring sparkling on Hermione's finger.

"Is that an engagement ring?" one student whispered.

"Who gave her that?" another asked, eyes wide with curiosity.

"Must be Oliver. They're always together," a third student speculated.

"Can they even get married at their age?" someone else chimed in, disbelief evident in their voice.

Hermione tried to ignore the murmurs, but her cheeks flushed slightly. Oliver noticed and gave her hand a reassuring squeeze.

Hagrid said, "Right, you lot. Less chattering. Form a group over there. And open your books to page 49."

A girl who had been sitting next to Harry in class earlier walked up and asked, "Exactly how do we do that?"

Hagrid turned to her and said, "Well, just stroke the spine, of course."

Malfoy, standing behind her, started to stroke the spine of his book. The students gathered together, attempting to follow Hagrid's instructions. However, when Neville went to open his book, it started to growl at him, causing him to shout in surprise. Neville fell back, trying to stop the book from attacking him.

Malfoy sneered, "Don't be such a wimp, Longbottom."

Neville stammered, "I'm okay. Okay," but the book lunged at him again.

Oliver quickly ran over, closed the book, and helped Neville up. "Thanks, Ollie," Neville said gratefully.

Oliver nodded. "No problem, man. Come on," he said, offering his hand to Neville.

Hermione chuckled, "I think they're funny. And witty"

Malfoy retorted, "Oh, yeah. Funny! Really witty! God, this place has gone to the dogs! Wait until my father hears that Dumbledore's got this oaf teaching classes!"

Stepping up, Oliver said firmly, "Shut up, Malfoy."

Malfoy's group echoed, "Ooh!" as Malfoy handed his bag to Crabbe. He then pretended to be scared, pointing up at the sky. "Dementor! Dementor!" he shouted.

Harry and the others flinched, but Oliver stood still. Malfoy laughed. "Why didn't you look, Queen?"

Oliver smiled. "Because there's only one thing I'm scared of... and it's Hermione."

The entire class laughed, and Malfoy sneered, "How can a girl half your size make you scared, big muscular Oliver Queen?"

"Thanks for saying I have muscles. I worked hard to get them," Oliver replied, making the class laugh again.

Malfoy then asked, "Quick question, Queen. We heard you're marrying that little Mudblood. Is it true?"

The students started to gossip.

Oliver responded calmly, "That's none of your business."

Malfoy smirked. "It's such a shame that even though your family used to be Pure-bloods, they had you, a filthy little Half-blood. Now you're gonna make it worse for your family by marrying a Muggle-born."

The girl from before stepped in. "That's enough, Draco."

Malfoy raised his hands in mock surrender. "Fine."

She pulled Oliver away toward Team Potter Arrow as Malfoy taunted, "Yeah, just turn around, Queen."

"Don't listen to him," the girl said.

Harry asked, "Who are you? We've seen you before, but we don't know your name."

"Hi, I'm Cassiopeia Malfoy. I go by Cassie," she replied.

Oliver looked surprised. "I'm surprised you're sticking up for me, especially after what happened with your father and me."

Cassie smiled. "I'm not like my father. I always thought it was about time someone put him in his arrogant place."

Hagrid approached the group with a flourish, "Da-da-da-da!"

A bleating sound echoed through the woods as a majestic Hippogriff emerged. Hagrid tossed a piece of meat into the air, which the Hippogriff caught gracefully.

"Isn't he beautiful?" Hagrid asked proudly. "Say hello to Buckbeak."

Ron asked, "Hagrid, exactly what is that?"

Hagrid smiled. "That, Ron, is a Hippogriff. The first thing you need to know about Hippogriffs is that they're very proud creatures. Very easily offended. You do not want to insult a Hippogriff. It might just be the last thing you ever do."

Cassie quipped, "Could I ask my brother to insult it? Draco's been getting on my nerves lately."

Hagrid chuckled. "No, sadly."

The entire class burst into laughter.

Malfoy fumed, "Really? You all are laughing at that?"

Oliver smirked. "Yeah, we are. Because we can imagine you getting assaulted by a Hippogriff for insulting them. You do it daily."

The class laughed, and Hagrid said, "Alright, now. Who'd like to come and say hello?"

Everyone took a step back except for Harry, who was left standing alone at the front.

Hagrid turned around and grinned, "Well done, Harry. Well done."

Harry glanced back at the group, realizing he was the only one who hadn't moved. "Really?" he said, looking at Oliver.

Oliver shrugged. "Sorry, but I'm done dealing with crazy animals. If I don't have to do it this time, I'm taking a break. Good luck, cousin."

Hagrid said, "Come on now."

Ron gave Harry a gentle shove forward. Harry took a deep breath and walked over to Hagrid, who said, "Now, you have to let him make the first move. It's only polite. So, step up and give him a nice bow. Then you wait and see if he bows back. If he does, you can go and touch him. If not... well, we'll get to that later."

As the students moved back to their spots, Oliver muttered, "I can't believe I let my cousin do this."

Hermione, rubbing his back, said, "You walked back just like the rest of us. It happens."

Oliver smiled and kissed her hand before turning his attention back to Harry.

Harry bowed low before Buckbeak, who squawked and flapped his wings.

"Back off, Harry! Back off!" Hagrid shouted.

Harry stumbled backward, breaking a stick underfoot.

"Keep still," Hagrid whispered urgently.

Hermione, worried about Harry, placed a hand on Oliver's chest, partly to keep him calm in case Harry got hurt.

Buckbeak eventually bowed back, and Hagrid chuckled, "Well done, Harry. Well done."

He tossed another piece of meat to Buckbeak, laughing, "Eh, you big brute, you."

Harry straightened up, and the students watched in amazement.

Hagrid said, "Right. Now I think you can go and pat him. Go on, don't be shy."

Harry slowly approached Buckbeak, his hand outstretched.

"Not so fast, Harry," Hagrid cautioned.

Buckbeak squawked again, but Harry moved cautiously.

Hermione's hand slid from Oliver's shoulder to his hand.

"Slow down, Harry. That's it. Nice and slow," Hagrid whispered.

Harry flinched as Buckbeak moved closer, then gasped as Buckbeak pressed his head against Harry's hand, letting him pet him.

"That's so cute," Hermione said softly.

Oliver smiled as Hagrid said, "That's it. Yes! Well done! Oh, well done, Harry! Well done." The students clapped enthusiastically.

Hagrid added, "I think he might let you ride him now."

Harry's eyes widened. "What?!"

Hagrid said, "Come on," as he hoisted Harry onto Buckbeak's back.

Harry protested, "Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey, hey! Hagrid!"

Hagrid said, "Just behind the wing joint," setting Harry on Buckbeak, who squawked in response.

"Don't pull out any of his feathers; he won't thank you for that," Hagrid advised before smacking Buckbeak's flank.

Buckbeak took off running like a horse and then soared into the sky with Harry holding on tight. "Whoa!" Harry shouted as the students began to cheer and shout.

Hermione said, "I bet that is a fantastic view from up there with Buckbeak."

Oliver nodded. "Yeah, for once, I don't have to worry about a crazy animal attacking me."

Bella smirked, "Yeah? I bet."

Cassie asked, "So you've dealt with crazy animals before? Was that on Lian Yu?"

Team Potter Arrow turned to her, and she quickly added, "Sorry. Just wondering. My mind just asks questions."

Oliver sighed. "It's fine. Yeah, it was on Lian Yu. I got bitten by a shark on my side."

The group was stunned. "I'm sorry... what?!" Hermione exclaimed.

Ron said, "How are you alive? Not many people survive a shark attack."

Bella nodded. "He's right, cousin. How did you survive?"

Oliver said, "I wouldn't have if I hadn't been taken care of. I was nursed back to health. Someone else stranded on the island saved me."

Barry asked, "How many people were on the island?"

Oliver reflected. "Too many to count."

As Oliver finished speaking, Harry returned, landing gracefully on Buckbeak with Hagrid's guidance. The students cheered and applauded, clearly impressed by Harry's bravery and the spectacle they had just witnessed.

Harry dismounted, his legs a bit wobbly, and made his way back to the group, grinning. "That was incredible," he said, his excitement evident.

Hagrid beamed with pride. "Well done, Harry. Well done. Now, who wants to go next?"

Cassie stepped forward, surprising everyone. "I'll give it a try," she said confidently.

Malfoy sneered, "Be careful, sister. Don't embarrass the family."

Cassie ignored him and approached Buckbeak, following Hagrid's instructions. She bowed deeply, and Buckbeak, after a moment of consideration, bowed back. Cassie reached out and patted Buckbeak gently, a smile spreading across her face as the class clapped.

"Well done, Cassie," Hagrid said, clearly pleased. "Anyone else?"

Malfoy sneered, "Oh, please!" in a sarcastic tone as he walked over to Buckbeak.

"Yes, you're not dangerous at all, are you, you great ugly brute," Malfoy taunted as he approached the Hippogriff.

Hagrid called out, "Malfoy! No!"

Buckbeak reared up, pushing Malfoy to the ground and tearing at his uniform with a sharp talon.

"Buckbeak!" Hagrid shouted.

Oliver rushed over quickly. "Hey, hey, hey. It's okay. Look at me, big guy," he said soothingly.

Buckbeak squawked, but Oliver continued, "Whoa, whoa, whoa. It's okay. I know what it's like to be rushed like that. Listen to my voice. There's no need for violence today, okay?"

Buckbeak gradually calmed down and bowed before Oliver.

Oliver petted him gently. "Good boy, Buckbeak. It's okay."

Malfoy, clutching his arm, wailed, "Oh, it's killed me! It's killed me!"

Oliver turned to Malfoy and said, "You shouldn't rush up to an animal that doesn't know you. They get scared of unfamiliar things. It's just a scratch, calm down."

Malfoy snapped, "Screw you, Queen!"

Hermione interjected, "Hagrid! He needs to be taken to the hospital wing."

Oliver moved to help, but Hagrid stopped him. "I'm the teacher. I'll do it," Hagrid said, picking up Malfoy.

As Hagrid walked away with Malfoy, the boy whimpered, "Oh, you're gonna regret this!"

Hagrid called back to the class, "Class dismissed!"

Malfoy continued to whine, "You and your bloody chicken!"

The rest of the students dispersed, murmuring among themselves about the dramatic turn of events.

As they made their way back, the students chatted animatedly about the lesson, Malfoy's accident, and the gossip about Hermione's engagement ring resurfaced.

A girl named Parvati whispered to Lavender, "Did you see the ring on Hermione's finger? It's gorgeous!"

Lavender nodded eagerly. "Do you think it's true? Is she really engaged to Oliver?"

Seamus overheard and joined in. "Yeah, I heard them talking about it earlier. Seems like it's the real deal."

Ron, catching bits of the conversation, grinned and said loudly, "Yes, they're engaged. And yes, Oliver is terrified of her, just so everyone knows."

The group laughed, and Hermione rolled her eyes but smiled. "Thanks for that, Ron."

Oliver put an arm around Hermione. "Well, it's true. And I wouldn't have it any other way."

The chatter continued as they reached the castle, and the students dispersed to their respective common rooms. As Team Potter Arrow settled into a cozy corner of the Gryffindor common room, they couldn't help but reflect on the day's events.

Harry said, "Today was amazing. I never thought I'd get to ride a hippogriff."

Hermione nodded. "It was quite a day. And it seems we've got a new friend in Cassie Malfoy."

Oliver agreed. "Yeah, she's not like her brother. I think she'll fit in just fine with us."

Ron, lounging on a nearby armchair, added, "As long as she keeps Draco in check, I have no complaints."

Barry chimed in, "And we got to see Oliver play the hero again. Closing Neville's book, stepping up to Malfoy... not a bad day."

Oliver chuckled. "Just doing what I can."

Hermione leaned against Oliver, smiling. "And you do it well."

As the fire crackled in the hearth, the friends enjoyed the warmth of their camaraderie, ready for whatever adventures awaited them next.

Later

At Dinner

Oliver and Team Potter Arrow overheard Pansy asking, "Does it hurt terribly, Draco?"

Malfoy replied dramatically, "It comes and it goes. Still, I consider myself lucky. According to Madam Pomfrey, another minute or two, and I, uh, could've lost my arm. I couldn't possibly do any homework for weeks."

Oliver shook his head. "Listen to that idiot," he muttered.

Ron added, "He's laying it on thick, isn't he?"

Harry nodded. "Yeah, but at least Hagrid didn't get fired."

Hermione sighed. "True, but I heard Draco and Cassie's father's furious. We haven't heard the end of this."

Oliver said confidently, "Don't worry about Lucius Malfoy. I can handle him."

Just then, Seamus rushed in, breathless. "He's been sighted! He's been sighted!"

Ron asked, "Who?"

"Sirius Black!" Seamus exclaimed.

Team Potter Arrow crowded around the newspaper. Hermione's eyes widened. "Dufftown?! That's not far from here."

Neville stammered, "Y-You don't think he'd come to Hogwarts, do you?"

A kid nearby said nervously, "Dementors at every entrance?"

Seamus replied, "Dementors! He's already slipped past them once, hasn't he? Who's to say he won't do it again?"

Bem chimed in, "That's right. Black could be anywhere. It's like trying to catch smoke. Like trying to catch smoke with your bare hands."

The room buzzed with anxious whispers as the students contemplated the danger looming over Hogwarts.

To be continued...