Hogwarts didn't allow Apparition, so Barty Crouch Jr. had to make his way there via Hogsmeade Village.
He Apparated there first, but instead of taking the main road to Hogwarts, he chose a secret passage.
When he emerged from the Whomping Willow and dodged its whip-like branches on his way toward the Forbidden Forest, Hagrid spotted him from a distance.
"Lupin?"
Hagrid called out in surprise.
"It's me, Hagrid. The Headmaster invited me..."
Remus began bashfully, but before he could finish, Hagrid ran over and gave him a huge hug.
"The Headmaster mentioned you, Lupin. I didn't think you'd really come. This is wonderful."
Hagrid hugged him excitedly and continued, "I'm going to become a professor next year too, Lupin. We'll both be professors at Hogwarts."
Remus stepped out of his embrace and congratulated him with a smile, though he looked a little surprised.
"Kettleburn's retiring, and Dumbledore decided to hire me," Hagrid told him quietly.
Remus understood at once and said, "You're certainly qualified, Hagrid, and you'll do a great job."
Embarrassed by the praise, Hagrid scratched his messy hair and chuckled foolishly.
"I need to see the Headmaster, Hagrid. Could you take me there?" Remus asked with a smile. "I showed up rather suddenly, without giving any notice, so..."
"No problem, Lupin. Come with me." Hagrid waved a big hand and led him toward the castle.
Along the way, the students looked curiously at Remus and his suitcase. Hagrid paid them no mind, chatting with Remus about old times without pause.
Remus responded now and then, his gaze filled with memories of his past life in the castle and the happiness of being able to return.
Hagrid took in all those complicated emotions.
"I really didn't expect you to come straight here."
When Hagrid brought him to the