Chapter 5: Transfiguration

Transfiguration, in Augustus's original world, was not considered an advanced spell. By the time one reached the rank of Archmage, one could generally master various forms of transfiguration. However, in this world, transfiguration seemed to be a skill only a few could grasp, and those who could were collectively referred to as Animagi.

Having only read about them and never actually encountered an Animagus in this world, Augustus's interest was piqued by the rat named Scabbers on the table. Through the penetrating gaze of his Eye of Inquiry, Augustus could clearly see the faint, transparent image of a short, balding man with a rat-like face and a sharp nose clinging to the plump rat.

Ordinarily, it was nearly impossible for someone to recognize an animal transformed by an Animagus. However, under the scrutiny of Augustus's legendary talent—his Eye of Inquiry, developed upon reaching the legendary realm—the fat rat was utterly exposed.

"Does anyone in your family happen to be an Animagus?" Augustus asked Ron with evident curiosity.

"No, of course not." Ron looked completely baffled by the question, staring at Augustus with a blank expression. "Animagi are quite rare in the wizarding world. No one in my family has that kind of talent."

Noticing Harry's puzzled look, Ron elaborated, "An Animagus is a wizard who can transform into a specific animal while retaining their magical abilities."

"That must be so cool," Harry murmured, clearly lost in a daydream after hearing Ron's explanation.

Since Ron was evidently unaware of the peculiarities surrounding his pet rat, Scabbers, Augustus, who had only just met them, tactfully chose not to delve deeper. Instead, he casually picked up a book and began reading.

Outside the train window, desolate fields, neatly arranged farmland, and vibrant woodlands rushed past. The scenery transitioned to winding rivers and dark green hills, blending into the horizon.

Bored, Ron glanced at the lethargic Scabbers on the table, a hint of disdain flashing across his face. "It might as well be dead—it's useless either way," he grumbled before turning to Harry and Augustus. "Have you ever practiced magic before? George taught me a spell. Why don't I show you now? Watch carefully…"

Ron rummaged through his trunk and pulled out a shabby wand with chipped edges and a faint white glimmer at one end.

Just as he raised the wand, the compartment door slid open. Standing there were a round-faced boy Augustus had brushed past earlier on the train and a bushy-haired girl already dressed in her new Hogwarts robes.

"Have any of you seen a toad? Neville's lost his toad," she said in a self-assured, slightly haughty tone. Her thick brown hair and prominent front teeth stood out as she scanned the compartment.

Harry and Ron shook their heads in unison, while Augustus continued reading his book. The girl's gaze fell on Ron's wand.

"Oh, are you about to perform a spell? Let's see it," she said, sitting down without waiting for an invitation.

Now somewhat interested, Augustus set down his book and looked at Ron. Flustered, Ron hesitated before clearing his throat.

"Alright, here goes," he said nervously.

"Sunshine, daisies, butter mellow,

Turn this stupid, fat rat yellow."

Ron waved his wand dramatically, but nothing happened. Scabbers remained gray and continued snoring peacefully.

"I think you should try casting it like this," Augustus said before the girl could start mocking Ron. Calmly, he took out a silver wand and pointed it at Scabbers, chanting, "Kriwromonh."

An odd string of syllables flowed from Augustus's lips, followed by a soft pop. The fat gray rat on the table instantly transformed into a tiny, snow-white lamb.

The lamb lay on the table, bleating nervously as if trying to reverse the spell, but it was clear that its efforts were in vain. Satisfied with his apparent experiment, Augustus flicked his wand again with a nonchalant pop. The lamb returned to its original form—a scruffy, unremarkable rat.

"That's advanced transfiguration for upper years!" exclaimed the girl in astonishment, her earlier haughty demeanor softened as she stared at Augustus in his white robes.

"I'm Hermione Granger," she said. "I've practiced a few spells at home—not nearly as advanced as what you just did, of course. They were just simple spells for practice, but they worked. By the way, what are your names?"

Although she was addressing all three of them, Harry and Ron could tell her main interest was in Augustus.

"Augustus Julius," he replied coolly.

"Ron Weasley," Ron mumbled.

"Harry Potter," Harry said.

Hearing Harry's name, Hermione lit up as though she had discovered a treasure. "The Harry Potter? I've read about you in several books. I even bought a few extra reference texts." Turning to Augustus, she added, "And of course, the Julius family—the rulers of the magical world—you're mentioned in many books too. To master such advanced magic at your age, it must be thanks to your family's legacy."

Augustus smiled faintly, not denying her words.

"Well, we'll be arriving soon. You should change into your robes. See you at school, Mr. Julius!" Hermione waved politely before leaving with Neville.

"Self-important know-it-all," Ron muttered under his breath, tossing his wand back into his trunk. "I hope she ends up in a different house—I can't imagine sharing one with her."

Then, turning to Augustus, Ron asked, "What went wrong with my spell, Augustus?"

Augustus chuckled softly. "It's quite obvious, Mr. Weasley—that wasn't a spell at all."

"I knew it!" Ron groaned, throwing up his hands in frustration. "George must have known it was a dud and told me anyway."

The scarlet train sped smoothly along the tracks, green landscapes flickering past the window. The piercing sound of the whistle echoed in the distance. We must be nearly there, Harry thought to himself.

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