This time, Hagrid genuinely had no intention of mocking Umbridge. He was being perfectly serious.
And that only made it hurt more.
Umbridge gritted her teeth and said, "Professor Hagrid, did you receive the note I sent to your hut earlier today?"
She still spoke very slowly and very loudly. This time, however, Harry was certain she was not worried that Hagrid would fail to understand her; she was doing it deliberately, as though he were intellectually impaired. "It mentioned that I would be observing your lesson today."
"Oh, yes, I got it." Hagrid nodded with a smile, unbothered by Umbridge's attitude. "I was a bit worried whether you'd find the place. All my lessons today are in the forest. Hmm, I don't know whether you've seen..." He pointed at the Thestral beside him.
"Today we're learning about Thestrals! Do you know these magical creatures?"
"I'm sorry," Umbridge said loudly, frowning as she cupped a hand around her ear. "What did you say?"
"Thestrals." Hagrid looked at Umbridge suspiciously. "Professor Umbridge, is there something wrong with your ears as well as your throat?
"If you struggle to hear a voice as loud as mine, you really ought to go to the Hospital Wing and have Madam Pomfrey give you a thorough examination. Of course, St. Mungo's might be a better choice."
"No need!" Umbridge's expression immediately grew even uglier. Clearly, she had not received the answer she wanted.
"Oh, suit yourself." Hagrid shrugged indifferently and continued his explanation. "Thestrals are very good at flying. Of all the magical creatures Wizards have tamed, they're the fastest fliers..."
"Excuse me," Umbridge interrupted. "Professor Hagrid, are you certain Thestrals have been tamed? Are you aware that the Ministry of Magic has listed Thestrals as dangerous animals?"
"Oh, I know. They've got the same