Chapter 16: If You Can’t Beat Them, Join Them
Kyle had always been curious about how the boats transporting first-year students across the Black Lake actually worked. He had assumed it was magic, but now he wasn't so sure. Despite observing the boats closely for a long time, he hadn't detected any obvious magical traces.
What puzzled him even more was Hagrid's boat. Despite the half-giant's massive size, his boat floated just as effortlessly as the ones carrying four much lighter first-years. That was clearly abnormal.
Maybe there's more advanced or concealed magic at play, Kyle thought, or perhaps these boats are alchemical objects. But deep down, he was beginning to suspect that something might be supporting the boats from beneath the surface of the lake.
Could it be that giant squid? Kyle wondered, leaning over the side of the boat to peer into the water. Unfortunately, the visibility was too poor in the dark, moonlit lake to see anything below the surface. All he could make out was his own reflection.
...
Soon, the boat exited the tunnel and docked at what appeared to be an underground pier. One by one, the students disembarked and followed Hagrid up a cobblestone path. They eventually arrived at a flat, damp meadow beneath the looming silhouette of Hogwarts Castle. From there, they made their way up a flight of stone steps to a massive oak door.
"Welcome to Hogwarts," Hagrid said, before pounding on the door with his huge fist.
The door creaked open to reveal a tall, stern-looking witch in a green robe, her black hair pulled back in a tight bun. Professor McGonagall had an air about her that immediately commanded respect, much like a strict homeroom teacher suddenly appearing in the back of the classroom. The chatter among the first-year students fell into an instant hush.
Even Hagrid straightened up a bit as he spoke. "The first-year students have arrived, Professor McGonagall."