Madam Hooch was a professional and strict instructor. She arrived at the grounds before the castle ahead of all the Young Wizards.
A gentle breeze stirred, and sunlight spilled across the broad lawn before the castle. Once all the Young Wizards had assembled, she had them stand in two rows.
"Students," her voice was clear and firm, her sharp gaze carrying a hint of expectation, "in the previous two lessons, we covered the precautions for flying, and every one of you has learned to summon your Flying Broomstick into your palm. So today is your chance to show what you can do.
"Mount your brooms. Just as I demonstrated, lightly push off the ground with your toes and think about flying upward. Don't be afraid—try boldly!
"Remember, relax your bodies and establish a connection with your brooms. Report any problem immediately. I'll catch you with a Levitation Charm!"
At Madam Hooch's command, the students eagerly gave it a try. Most of the Slytherin Young Wizards soon managed to take off, and their flight was remarkably steady.
Most of the Slytherin Young Wizards came from Pure-blood wizarding families. Their homes were well-off, and they had practiced on Flying Broomsticks under their parents' supervision since childhood. The very best among them had even been trained by professional Quidditch players.
The Young Wizards from the other houses also took off one after another. Those still standing on the ground were either Muggle-born Young Wizards, or timid, untalented wizards from Pure-blood or mixed-blood families.
Poor little Ron was among them. Both hands clenched tightly around the broom handle, his knuckles had turned white from the force.
Watching his classmates rise into the air one after another, he merely tapped the ground tentatively with his toes. The broom lifted only a few centimeters before he