Chapter 273: Time-Turner Application Denied
Lockhart finished his speech with a self-satisfied grin and strode off toward Harry. The moment he was gone, Professor McGonagall turned to Kyle with a firm expression.
"Don't get any ideas about that tree," she said. "If you value your life, keep your distance from it." She pressed her lips together before adding, "You have plenty of classes this year, and I recommend you focus on books that are... actually useful. Perhaps ones on magic."
"Yes, Professor," Kyle replied.
In truth, he hadn't even skimmed Wanderings with Werewolves; he'd only thrown out that comment to mess with Lockhart. He hadn't expected Lockhart to not only agree with him but also award Hufflepuff ten points for it. Now that was a surprise windfall.
Professor McGonagall nodded approvingly before stepping aside for Professor Sprout.
"Now, about your request," Professor Sprout began. "Unfortunately, Kyle, your application for a Time-Turner was denied. You may need to reconsider your class schedule."
"Denied?" Kyle's eyes widened. "But Percy mentioned that—"
"This time it's different," Professor Sprout said with a sigh. "All Time-Turners are stored in the Department of Mysteries at the Ministry, but it's currently under strict lockdown. No correspondence can even reach them."
"Just yesterday, we tried asking Professor Dumbledore to intervene," added Professor McGonagall. "But even he couldn't manage to help."
"Even Headmaster Dumbledore can't get in?" Kyle asked, baffled.
"No, he did visit the Department of Mysteries," Professor McGonagall replied, giving Kyle a meaningful look. "But someone there turned down the request, claiming that all Time-Turners are currently in use and there are none available for students."