The afternoon sun lit the paddock as the class gathered around, excitement and unease buzzing in the air. The massive creature before them shifted its wings, feathers shimmering in the light. Hagrid’s voice carried across the field as he explained how to approach the proud beast.

Draco stood a little apart from the others, his chin raised as if daring anyone to doubt him. He cast a quick glance over his shoulder, smirking as he caught a few eyes on him. Without hesitation, he stepped forward.

"So this is what we’re supposed to be impressed by?" Draco said loudly, his tone dripping with disdain. "Looks dangerous enough, but I doubt it’s as noble as Hagrid claims."

The Hippogriff snorted, its golden eyes narrowing. Hagrid’s warning came too late. In a blur of wings and fury, the creature lashed out. Draco stumbled back, clutching his arm as pain shot through him, the smirk gone from his face.