O.W.L. Examinations

On the day of the O.W.L. examinations, a stifling atmosphere hung over the Great Hall. Most fifth years and seventh years about to enter the examination rooms remained silent, and the pre-exam tension even affected students from other years.

Across from Albert, Shanna was actually eating while flipping through Charms Achievements, afraid she might forget the key points in the book. To his right, Lee Jordan yawned distractedly and mistook salt for sugar, adding it to his pumpkin porridge. Even Fred and George, who were usually carefree, had been affected by the exams. They had become quiet, and even their appetites had worsened.

Albert alone remained as he always was, eating at an unhurried pace, completely unaffected by the oppressive pre-exam atmosphere.

After breakfast, students from the other years went off to class. Only the fifth years and seventh years remained in the Entrance Hall, waiting aimlessly for the examinations to begin.

Yes, that was right. The O.W.L. and N.E.W.T. Charms Theory examinations were being held together in the Great Hall, though their seats would be separated.

Waiting was the hardest part. Everyone looked nervous. Quite a few people tried to calm themselves by reading, but more often than not, they kept sneaking glances toward the Great Hall, as though hoping to see something.

Albert was well experienced in this. He handed George the half packet of mints left over from last time and had him pass them around, helping everyone ease their pre-exam nerves and anxiety.

Naturally, the other Houses did not get any.

"You really thought of everything."

With a mint in her mouth, Shanna found Albert lazily flipping through Charms Achievements on a stone bench in the courtyard. Smiling, she sat down beside him.

"Can't help it. I'm experienced."

Albert closed the book and casually asked, "Think