Three Broomsticks

Transfiguration was always held early in the morning. If anyone deserved to be called a ray of morning sunshine, it was Professor McGonagall.

Her cool voice was the only sound in the classroom. She spoke as though she had rehearsed every word, fluently and with impeccable logic.

But for young wizards who had only just crawled out of their warm winter beds, her flawless lecture seemed the perfect lullaby.

Professor McGonagall's usual authority kept them from openly snoring, but their minds had wandered far away. Only empty shells remained in the classroom, giving no response.

A few students were behaving unusually, though: Harry and Draco Malfoy, and perhaps Ron Weasley too.

Ever since they had learned that Eli had mastered the Animagus transformation, they had been fascinated by the remarkable magic. It had nothing to do with the Girls' Bathroom.

Professor McGonagall was surprised by their interest, but even more pleased. It gave her fresh energy, and her lecture seemed to gain force.

Out of respect, Eli paid attention too. He knew the material by heart, but did not let that make him arrogant enough to slack off.

Hermione Granger was as meticulous as ever.

When the end of class approached, every wandering mind returned to the Transfiguration classroom. The young wizards were practically counting down the seconds.

With one minute left, Professor McGonagall reluctantly brought the lesson to a close.

The young wizards nearly shot straight out of their seats.

Sensing their restlessness, Professor McGonagall swept the classroom with a sharp gaze. Everyone it passed shrank back.

Then her stern face suddenly blossomed into a smile. In a voice that could only be called sly, she said, "Have fun, everyone!"

The moment she finished speaking, the young wizards charged out of the classroom like wild horses let loose, like