Defense Association

The uproar caused by Sirius Black gradually died down with the passage of time, and Hogwarts Castle returned to its usual peace.

If not for the gnome security guards often seen patrolling the corridors, the students might have long forgotten the panic caused by Black's two intrusions into Hogwarts.

But for most fifth years and seventh years, the Ordinary Wizarding Levels Exam and Ultimate Wizard Exam a few months away were what concerned them most.

"Professor Lupin is ill again?"

"Is he really all right?"

"Professor Lupin seems to take a few days off every month. I'm starting to worry about the Defence Against the Dark Arts exam in June."

"We've barely learned anything useful in this subject over the past few years."

As soon as they were told that Professor Lupin was ill and that Defence Against the Dark Arts would be self-study, whispers immediately broke out in the classroom.

"I think it must be the Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor's curse." Shanna reached out and poked Albert. "Do you know what's going on with Professor Lupin?"

"Actually, the Defense Against the Dark Arts exam isn't as difficult as you think." Albert changed the subject and reassured them softly. "As far as I know, we'll need to complete a written test, then demonstrate counter-curses and defensive spells before the professors. For example, using Riddikulus to drive away a Boggart. Most of the exam content comes from Dark Forces: A Defensive Guide. I think the Ministry of Magic is well aware of the state of Hogwarts' Defense Against the Dark Arts classes, so the exam can't be too difficult."

"It may be easy for you, but that doesn't mean it'll be easy for us."

"Do you think Professor Lupin keeps getting sick because of the Defense Against the Dark