Ethan stepped into the Transfiguration classroom with a sense of anticipation. The room was as orderly as ever, with Professor McGonagall standing at the front, her sharp eyes scanning the students who filtered in. The desks were cleared, leaving an open space at the center, where a small assortment of objects rested, a quill, a matchstick, a goblet, and a needle. The assortment was a clear hint of what they would be facing.
"Take your seats," Professor McGonagall's clear, crisp voice echoed across the room. "This is your final Transfiguration exam. You will first complete a brief written section, testing your understanding of fundamental principles and theories. Following that, you will proceed with the practical portion."
Ethan settled into his seat, a fresh piece of parchment and a quill appearing before him. The questions were revealed on the board, and he began writing swiftly.
1. Explain the fundamental difference between Transfiguration and Conjuration.
Ethan carefully wrote, explaining how Transfiguration was the art of changing an object's form or state, while Conjuration created objects from seemingly nothing. Conjured objects were temporary and often lacked true substance, while Transfigured objects were altered versions of existing matter.
2. What is Gamp's Law of Elemental Transfiguration? Name one of its exceptions.
Gamp's Law was a foundational rule in Transfiguration, dictating the limits of magical transformation. Ethan listed the exceptions, such as food, which could be transformed but not created from nothing.
3. Describe the importance of concentration and intent in Transfiguration. Provide an example.
He wrote about how the precise control of magic, combined with a clear image in the caster's mind, determined the success of a transformation. As an example, he mentioned how trying to turn a needle into a matchstick could result in a misshapen, useless object if focus wavered.
Ethan finished with a minute to spare, setting down his quill just as Professor McGonagall called for the written portions to be submitted. His parchment floated neatly to the front of the room, joining the others.
"Now, we will begin the practical section," McGonagall announced, gesturing for the students to step forward one at a time. Each would attempt the transfigurations in sequence.
Ethan waited, watching as each student stepped up, some with confidence, others with clear anxiety. Finally, his name was called. He approached the small table at the center of the room, feeling the quiet pressure of the class's gaze.
"Begin with the matchstick," McGonagall instructed, her voice calm but watchful.
Ethan drew his wand, focusing on the small wooden matchstick. His mind's eye visualized it changing, the wooden texture giving way to the sharp, metallic sheen of a needle. His voice was steady.
"Verto acus."
The matchstick shimmered, then twisted. For a moment, the shape wavered, caught between wood and metal, but then it solidified, a thin, silvery needle with a faint wooden grain on its surface. Not perfect, but close.
McGonagall gave a slight nod. "Acceptable. Next, the quill into a goblet."
Ethan steadied himself, focusing on the quill's long, feathery form. He imagined it warping, the shaft thickening, the feathers vanishing as the smooth silver surface of a goblet replaced them.
"Verto poculum."
This time, the transformation was smoother. The quill melted away, becoming a small, elegant silver goblet, though the rim had a slight curve, showing a minor imperfection.
"Well done. Return to your seat," McGonagall instructed, her expression as strict as ever but with a hint of approval in her eyes.
Ethan's shoulders relaxed as he returned to his seat. He knew he hadn't achieved perfection, but his transformations were complete enough to earn a strong grade.
After all the students had completed their practicals, McGonagall dismissed them. Ethan left the classroom, feeling the familiar rush of excitement. One more exam done, one step closer to the freedom of summer.
But there was little time to linger on that thought. After a short break, it was time for his Charms final. The classroom was bustling with energy when Ethan arrived, Professor Flitwick standing atop his stack of books at the front, his small form barely visible over his desk.
"Welcome, students!" Flitwick's cheerful voice rang out. "For your Charms exam, you will be tested on both your theoretical knowledge and your practical casting ability. Please take your seats, and we shall begin with the written portion."
Ethan settled in, and his quill appeared alongside another sheet of parchment. The questions appeared one by one.
1. What is the difference between a jinx, a hex, and a curse? Provide one example of each.
Ethan wrote quickly, explaining that a jinx was a minor, often mischievous spell, like the Jelly-Legs Jinx. A hex was a more harmful but still reversible spell, such as the Bat-Bogey Hex. A curse was a dark and dangerous spell meant to cause significant harm, such as the Unfogivable Curses.
2. Describe the purpose and mechanics of the Levitation Charm. What is the importance of the wand movement in this spell?
The Levitation Charm, "Wingardium Leviosa," allowed objects to be lifted into the air. The swish-and-flick motion ensured a steady and controlled rise of the object, and intent was crucial to maintain focus.
3. Explain the Lumos and Nox charms. How do they differ from other light-producing spells?
Lumos created a focused beam of light at the wand's tip, while Nox extinguished it. Unlike other light spells like "Lumos Maxima," which cast a ball of light, Lumos was more precise and controlled.
Ethan felt his confidence growing as he moved through the questions. Charms had always been one of his favorite subjects, and he enjoyed the precision and versatility it demanded.
After time passed on, Flitwick called for the written exams to be submitted. Then, with a flick of his wand, the classroom's desks moved to the sides, leaving a wide, open space.
"Now, for the practical portion!" Flitwick announced, a twinkle of excitement in his eyes. "You will be tested on three spells, Levitation, the Summoning Charm, and the Banishing Charm. Approach one by one."
Ethan's turn came quickly. He stepped forward, wand ready, and faced a small feather resting on the table.
"Levitate the feather, please," Flitwick instructed.
Ethan flicked his wand, his voice clear.
"Wingardium Leviosa."
The feather rose gracefully into the air, hovering without a single wobble.
"Excellent!" Flitwick beamed. "Now, the Summoning Charm. The object is that small brass key." He gestured to a key on a distant shelf.
Ethan drew in a breath, his focus narrowing on the key.
"Accio key."
The key shot through the air, landing neatly in his outstretched palm.
"Very well done. Finally, the Banishing Charm. Send the key back."
Ethan adjusted his stance, aiming his wand.
"Depulso."
The key flew back, landing softly on the shelf once more.
"Marvelous control, Ethan! Well done, well done!" Flitwick's smile was bright, and a few of the other students gave polite, quiet applause.
Ethan nodded his thanks, returning to his seat. He watched as the other students took their turns, some struggling with the Summoning Charm, others sending their levitated objects spinning wildly.
When the last student finished, Flitwick dismissed them with a cheerful wave. "You have all done splendidly! Results will be posted soon. Now, go and enjoy the rest of your day!"
Ethan left the classroom with a sense of accomplishment. Two exams in one day, and he had performed well in both. His practical skills had been strong, even if his Transfiguration wasn't flawless. He was confident his Charms would easily be among the best scores.
As he walked back to the Ravenclaw Tower, he let his mind wander. Finals were nearly over, and that meant the summer holidays were close.
And who knew what new knowledge he would uncover next? Ethan smiled faintly, his fingers absently tracing the cool wood of his wand.