"Lockhart's recruiting students? That's not fair! Those four are a little clique. They'll... rig the results!"
The tall Ernie voiced his objection.
"Er, are you questioning my magic? Or my judgment in choosing students? Every sheet in this stack of riddles has been enchanted. Once time is up, even the finest ink won't leave the slightest mark on it. Here, just as I've demonstrated."
"Once the rankings are out, I'll post the top five students' answer sheets on the noticeboard. If anyone thinks they answered more riddles correctly than someone on the list, come to my office."
Lockhart's words silenced more than just Ernie. Plenty of people in the Great Hall shared his concerns.
"Of course I understand you. All right, go collect your participation prize, then head back to your dormitory and get a good night's sleep!"
"Okay!"
The event was drawing to a close, so there was no reason to linger. Luo Bin picked up the stack of riddle sheets and signaled to the three nearby with his eyes. Then the four of them headed for the stairs together!
"Luo Bin, what did you and Lockhart talk about when you had your backs to the tables? He looked awful when he turned around!"
Hermione pressed him for an answer.
"Nothing. We didn't really talk about anything! Maybe he'd been standing too long and drunk several big bottles of water, so he desperately wanted to wrap things up!"
Ron's eyes suddenly lit up. "Right, that's exactly how he looked! Like he was bursting but had to hold it in. I knew the Braggart's smile at Ernie looked fake and creepy!"
Hermione glared at Ron and snapped, "Don't say that! Everyone has embarrassing moments! Next time you make a fool of yourself, like throwing up slugs, dangling from the Whomping