Transformations

Chapter One: The Beginning

Ginny sighed. Her homework was so boring. And, on top of that all, Hermione was telling her to study ahead for next year. She liked to read, but really, she figured that if her teachers wanted them to learn ahead, they would have given the students more work this year, which they certainly did not need.

As she finished her essay on Goblin Rebellions for History of Magic with a flourish, she decided not to read Hermione's recommended books. While she was gathering them up, one fell onto the floor. Grumbling, she picked it up. Glancing at it, her eyes fell to a certain paragraph.

An animagus is any witch or wizard that can transform at will into an animal. The process of becoming an animagus takes about 3 years with supervision from the Ministry of Magic. All animagus are required to register their names, animals, and markings with the Improper Use of Magic Office.

Ginny drew in a deep breath. This was her chance. Ever since she had been controlled by Tom Riddle's diary, she was separate from everyone else. Her family treated her like a little girl that didn't know anything, and acted like she was at least three years younger than Ron, while she was only one year younger. It was certainly not easy being the only and youngest Weasley girl.

She had friends, but no one really understood her. And whenever she tried to go off on her own, someone always found her, with a concerned look on their face. "Are you alright, Ginny?" "Why don't you come play a game of chess with us, Ginny?" "Come on, hang out with us, Ginny." But whenever she did consent to do something with them, she found herself wishing she was alone.

If she became an animagus, she could be alone whenever she wanted. Sure, it would take a while, and it was illegal, but she was daring. She had spunk. And she was the top student in her year. She had to be to do this. Maybe this would help her forget her horrible first year.

Ginny put back most of the books, and boldly walked up to Madam Pince. She raised her eyebrows inquiringly over the book she was reading; From Boggarts to Sphinxes; a book on all Creatures Magical.

"Yes?" she replied boredly.

Ginny bravely said, "I'd like as many books on animagus that you have, please. I find it fascinating."

Madam Pince sighed and took a longing look at her book. "Fine, fine." She walked over to a shelf and pointed at a section. "That's all we have on animagus." And without another word, she swished back to her desk and book.

Ginny scanned the shelf. "Animagi over the years, Simple steps to becoming an animagus, Animagus that prevailed, Transformations of a werewolf," She stopped there. "I think I'll take the first three," she mumbled to herself.

"Hiya, Ginny!" said a bright voice as she turned, startled.

Colin. He seemed to stalk her. Wherever she was, he was. She didn't know how Harry put up with it. Turning, irritated, she said, "What, Colin?"

"Can you help me with my History of Magic essay? Or just point me to the right book?" he said, oblivious to her exasperation.

"Sure." Ginny said, cross. What else could she do? Walking over to the section on History of Magic, she pointed out the right book.

"Thanks, Ginny! Its really nice of you...."

Colin's voice faded out as Ginny searched for a way to escape. "Um.... no problem. Good to be of help." And she dashed out with a fwoom, leaving Colin behind looking confused.

***

Ginny collapsed on her bed. She had run up to her dorm, past concerned faces and cries of "Hey Ginny! Where are you going?" She was alone. Kicking off her shoes and lying comfortably on her stomach, she opened up the first book and started to read.