The summer passed by quickly, and soon it was time to return to Hogwarts. Things were packed, and after a sad goodbye to Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, Ron, Harry, Hermione, and Ginny were off.

"Be safe everyone!" yelled Mrs. Weasley after the Hogwarts Express as it was pulling out of the station.

"Let us know about any updates or information you get!" Mr. Weasley added.

The four-some wandered the train looking for an open seat. They found one at the very back. The ride was long and quiet. Not much was spoken. All were lost in there own thoughts of the adventures they might face on this year, their last year of Hogwarts.

As the train approached Hogwarts, and came to a stop, they could hear the familiar voice of Hagrid called for the first years.

"Hey you four," he said as they walked past.

"Hey" they all replied in unison.

"You guys know that if you need anything, you can always come to me"

"Thanks Hagrid," responded Harry. "It means a lot to us."

The opening feast was not nearly as loud or as exciting as it was in previous years. Professor McGonagall made an announcement, that the new Defense Against The Dark Arts teacher was going to be none other than Remus Lupin. He wasn't able to be there yet, but would be returning shortly.

"Oh my gosh!" yelled Harry

"I can't believe it." Added Ron

"I can," said Hermione.

"What do you mean?" asked Harry.

"He's here to help you, and keep you in his sight, of course"

After that, new students were sorted, but there were only about half the usual amount of new comers. In fact, many returning students weren't there either.

"Hey, you guys," started Harry. "Look at the Slytherin table"

Sure enough, almost no one was at the far table. Because that Malfoy was gone, Crabbe and Goyle had not returned. Pansy Parkinson was gone, as well as most of the others.

The students left to go to their dorms, and Harry, Ron, and Hermione, said goodbye to Ginny, and went to there new dorms, away from the rest. Harry moved into Dumbledore's former office, with Ron on the room to his right, and Hermione in the room to his left. They shared a common room that was in the back of all three rooms. Harry never knew about all these extra rooms. As they were settling in, an owl came, delivering their course work for the semester. There was a note attached:

Dear Harry, Ron, and Hermione,

Here is the coursework I promised you. It is at NEWT level. The classes you were put in were based upon you idea as a future career. Harry, as an Aurur. Ron, the same, but we gave you a variety. Hermione, we gave you the work for most classes, with the exception of Divination. If you wish to add or drop classes, see me ASAP. If you leave for any reason, you don't have to worry about missing assignments. Please come any classes that you can, for it will help with your learning. You may come to me with any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Professor McGonagall