The schools taking part in the Inter-School League arrived one after another.
The competition format broke down the barriers that had previously separated the schools.
The three European schools and schools from other countries could now truly interact.
It also broadened the students' understanding of the outside world and encouraged advances in magic.
The "wild animals" currently appearing around Hogwarts were a perfect example.
Transfiguration was most widespread at Uagadou, whose wizards were highly accomplished in both primitive spellcasting and Transfiguration.
The students attending this exchange were elites from prestigious schools, and practically all of them excelled at Transfiguration.
John saw a black panther dart past his office, followed by a Hufflepuff student trying to reclaim his stolen chestnuts.
The Castelobruxo students raced about, kicking a black-and-white ball back and forth, much to the fascination of Gryffindor's Nearly Headless Nick.
Another student, who had turned into a cat, was trying to chat up Mrs. Norris.
He probably thought she was another student.
Mrs. Norris flicked her tail and gave him a look that suggested she was staring at an idiot.
The Great Hall was the liveliest place of all.
Not only were professors from different schools exchanging academic ideas, but students were also reviewing Hogwarts' food and boasting about the delicacies back home.
John quietly found a seat.
Professor McGonagall was talking with Master Nicolatin from Mesmer.
He was an accomplished astrologer who had also published several articles in Transfiguration Today.
Pheobe dismissed a Uagadou student who had worked up the courage to confess his love. Her "I'm the queen" attitude left the boy utterly besotted even as she rejected him.
Kim was very popular with the girls, though they seemed to prefer watching him spend time with Heinrich.
With his youthful face, Heinrich was easily mistaken for a student.