Harley marveled as she stroked Buckbeak's head. Were Fantastic Beasts always this docile?
But seeing the ingratiating look in Buckbeak's bright orange-yellow eyes—and the fear lurking deep within them—Harley understood why he was reacting this way.
So it wasn't that he was unusually well-behaved. He was just so Spiritual that he'd sensed how terrifying the smiling girl before him was.
Hagrid was still exclaiming loudly in amazement beside them. "Oh, well done, Harley!"
"You're a natural at caring for Fantastic Beasts!"
"Look how much Buckbeak likes you!"
I don't think Buckbeak would agree with you. He's probably wondering what he did to offend you.
Harley grumbled inwardly as she gently patted Buckbeak's head.
The students behind them let out excited gasps, realizing that Hippogriffs weren't nearly as frightening as they looked.
The students who had previously been desperate to stay away from them were now eager to try, wanting to step forward and stroke one.
According to the older students, the first lesson usually involved less dangerous Fantastic Beasts, like Mooncalves or Tree Monkeys.
But they'd come into contact with a Hippogriff in their very first lesson... They'd have plenty to brag about when they got back!
Hagrid even suggested that Harley ride Buckbeak for a lap around the sky, but seeing the slight tremble in Buckbeak's body, Harley decided to spare the poor little creature.
After Harley's successful example, the other students in the class gathered around the Hippogriffs they'd chosen.
Most of them were still cautious, though. They followed Hagrid's instructions step by step, approaching only after the Hippogriffs had accepted them.
After all, what if the Hippogriff Harley had chosen was an exception?
If something went wrong and they angered one, it wouldn't hold back with its claws.
Hagrid, meanwhile, walked through the crowd, calling out the