It took a few minutes, but eventually Toby was back on his knees. Apollo was staring at him expectantly, and Tobias was still unsure of whether his last attempt at the spell had worked, and if it might still be in effect. Still, what was there to lose by trying again?

"Finite," the boy cast, pointing his wand at the puffskein. There was no change in the creature's expression, and Tobias tilted his head slightly. Okay, here goes.

"Animalis Fidelis!" With a flick of his wand, Tobias cast the spell at Apollo.

The two blinked at each other for a moment, and Tobias thought that, maybe... just maybe... the spell had worked this time.

"C'mon Apollo," Toby said again, and this time turned to walk away, this time slower and with a slight limp.

He couldn't help but notice that Apollo was not behind him... but was instead right by his side. The Hufflepuff beamed widely and carried on circling the playpen. "Nice one, buddy. Good work."

And they kept on going.