As the Quidditch World Cup drew near, nearly all the news published in the Daily Prophet revolved around the two teams that had reached the finals.
Minerva looked festive, as if celebrating a holiday, but in this area she had more in common with Albus.
"I'm sorry, Professor, that you can't watch the match in person," Albus said apologetically.
"Don't mind it, Albus. The school and the Triwizard Tournament are more important right now," Minerva said briskly. "By the way, I heard Severus's match is over?"
Pomona looked at the empty seat at the teachers' table. It seemed that the Head of Slytherin had missed today's "breakfast meeting" as well.
"Severus will be unavailable for the week around the full moon, Minerva, if you were hoping for his help," Albus said.
"No, I only wanted to remind him not to forget his duties." Minerva gave Pomona a meaningful glance. "The riddle he designed is related to the second task."
Pomona had actually already eaten breakfast, but she still put on a show of taking a sip of tea.
"Come with me," Albus said, rising to his feet.
"I think he meant the two of you." Minerva looked at Filius and Pomona.
So Pomona and Filius left the table as well and followed Albus out of the Great Hall.
The tall Albus deliberately slowed his pace so that he could stroll comfortably through the school with the two shorter Heads of House.
No one knew what was happening over at the Quidditch Pitch, but the children's shouting could be heard from far away.
"What are you planning to do today, Professor Sprout?" Albus asked casually.
"I plan to go to the library this morning. Severus and I agreed to go out this afternoon," Pomona replied.
"And you, Filius?" Albus asked.
"I