Foundation

The first round of the Magical School Potions Tournament felt more like a practical exam to Albert.

Naturally, he came first again.

At that moment, President Bernard announced from the judges' seats that the second round would begin in three days.

Although the content of the competition had not been announced, Professor Slughorn told Albert what the second round would entail on their way back to the bar.

"The contestants will need to enter the Magical Garden, gather potion ingredients within ten hours, return with the ingredients they find before the time limit, and brew a potion using those ingredients." Professor Slughorn did not forget to remind him, "The contestants from the other schools have likely learned the details of the second round as well. I suggest you leave yourself a way out first. Make sure the ingredients you gather can be used to brew a potion before considering anything else."

"Besides gathering ingredients, you'll need to leave yourself time to brew the potion—at least an hour and a half. I've seen people eliminated because they did not have enough time to finish brewing."

"I understand."

Albert nodded his thanks to Professor Slughorn.

Even though he had long known the contents of the later rounds, Professor Slughorn had truly done everything he could to help him win.

Just then, a bearded, sallow-faced middle-aged man approached Albert and raised a hand in greeting. "This should be our first formal meeting, Mr. Anderson. I'm Damocles, Damocles Belby."

"Pleased to meet you, Mr. Belby." Albert shook his hand.

"A wonderful match. Truly brilliant. You probably didn't notice Bernard's expression!" Damocles was quite pleased that Albert had effortlessly crushed the other contestants. "I heard from Hertok that you also improved the Cheering Draught. If you used it in the competition, I dare say Bernard