Anderson-Style Lies

Albert and Isabelle had a candlelit dinner in the Room of Requirement, then lingered together, sharing their feelings. They had no idea the whole outside world was going mad looking for them.

During dinner, after Headmaster Dumbledore announced in the Great Hall that Albert had won the Magical School Potion Championship for Hogwarts, Professor McGonagall smiled so broadly she could barely close her mouth. For some reason, though, Professor Snape's smile looked a little forced.

To be honest, many people had been utterly confused at the time. They had no idea what kind of competition the Potions Tournament was.

It was only after Professor McGonagall revealed that it was a potions competition attended by every magical school in the world that people began paying attention.

After all, he was a genius who had defeated every magical school and emerged as champion. The prestige was immense. It basically meant that Albert Anderson was the most outstanding potions prodigy among all magical schools, adding yet another halo to the young wizard's head.

Many students wanted to see Albert and hear him talk about the Potions Tournament, but he had vanished the moment he returned to school.

Fred, George, and Lee Jordan had all complained that Albert had not told them the good news right away.

At that moment, the three of them were huddled together, though no one knew what they were discussing.

By the time Albert parted with Isabelle, it was already past ten at night.

At the entrance to the Gryffindor Common Room, Albert ran into Nearly Headless Nick, who had been waiting there for him.

"Where have you been? I've been waiting here for ages."

"Waiting for me?"

Albert looked at the ghost before him and asked in confusion, "What did you need me for, Sir Nick?"

"I heard