Those in the Know

"O.W.L.s seem terrifying. I heard someone else couldn't handle the exam pressure and had an emotional breakdown."

Hermione and Albert had just left the library and were walking side by side along the corridor toward the Gryffindor Common Room, casually discussing recent events.

In truth, Hermione wanted to ask Albert about the O.W.L.s. Twelve subjects had put considerable pressure on her, and she was worried that she would not be able to withstand the stress of the O.W.L.s and would ultimately suffer an emotional breakdown like the others.

"The O.W.L.s aren't particularly difficult, and getting Outstanding grades isn't hard either," Albert told Hermione. "As long as you thoroughly master the key points the professors mentioned in class, I think you should be able to pass both the written and practical O.W.L. tests easily."

Albert was not merely brushing her off. He had looked through O.W.L. papers from previous years and found that most of the material was quite similar. In other words, as long as one mastered that knowledge, passing the exams would be easy.

"Perhaps that's the greatest difference between geniuses and ordinary people!" Hermione said, feeling a little depressed. "Exams that are difficult for others barely seem to require any revision from you, and you still have plenty of time to study other things."

"You're very smart too. Don't put yourself down. Even geniuses need to work hard, and besides, you're a genius too." Albert took out a few sweets and handed them to Hermione, comforting her softly. "You just haven't fully adjusted yet. Perhaps Percy can give you some good advice. His methods may suit you better."

"Percy suggested I come to you for help," Hermione said quietly. She had gone to Percy before, hoping he could offer her some advice, but Percy's suggestion had been that