Harry Potter: The Green Arrow of Hogwarts (Book 3) (Fan Fiction)

Chapter 3: Third Year of Hogwarts Begins

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?"