"Please."

"No."

"Come on."

Losing patience, I snapped, "For the last time, I said no."

Looking up from my complex arithmancy calculations, I found Fred and George Weasley shamelessly grinning at me. Having just come from quidditch practice, they still had their quidditch gear on. Since it had been raining earlier, their red and gold robes were still damp, although, from the smell radiating from them, part of the dampness had to be sweat.

Looking around, I realized they had brought a small crowd with them this time. Half the Gryffindor Quidditch team seemed to be here, including Harry Potter. Ever since I revealed Fawley's Arcane Solutions to the world, the twins had been bugging me to enchant their brooms. I guess they thought numbers might make me change my mind.

Speaking firmly, I said, "It doesn't matter how many times you ask me. I'm not adding the Slipstream Charm to your brooms."

"Come on," George wheedled. "If we win our last match, we will overtake Slytherin for the Quidditch Cup. No one wants to see the stupid snakes win again."

Next to me, Anna cleared her throat, drawing attention to her, and lazily drawled, "Maybe if you Gryffindors used your brains more than your brawn, you wouldn't lose every year."

All the Gryffindors glared at Anna, who glared right back with her purple eyes daring them to do something. While they had their staring match, I rolled my eyes. A lot of students tended to take the quidditch matches way too seriously. Don't get me wrong. I loved to watch, but to me, it was just a game.

Quidditch was responsible for probably half of the school's hexes. After a game, there is always a rash of students being sent to the Hospital Wing. Sometimes, students from the losing team vent their frustrations out on the students from the winning team. Other times, it's the winning team's side who is riding high after a victory and wants to continue feeling like the top dog. Still, that was just life at Hogwarts. Getting randomly hexed after a quidditch match was almost like a rite of passage. It's even happened to me.

Deciding to break up the tension, I looked at George, "You do realize that your final match is against Ravenclaw?"

I brushed my hand against the Ravenclaw Badge attached to my robe, "If I were going to enchant anyone's brooms, it would be the Ravenclaw Quidditch team's brooms."

"Oi, you can't do that," Fred argued. "That would be cheating."

Fred fell silent, realizing he had undercut his own argument for getting the Gryffindor brooms enchanted.

A small voice spoke up in such a matter-of-fact tone that I knew who it was immediately.

"According to Section D, Paragraph 2 of the Quidditch Rule Book, adding new spells or modifications to an existing broom is prohibited and is grounds for disqualification and forfeiture."

The Gryffindors parted, revealing a pale, first-year student with bushy hair and front teeth that were slightly too big for her face. Hermoine turned pink when she realized everyone was staring at her.

Standing next to her was a familiar-looking student with red hair and freckles splattered across his face. Ron was looking at Hermione like she had grown two heads.

"Of course, you memorized the rule book," Ron grumbled under his breath.

I waved toward the two first years, "There you have it. I won't be applying my spells to anyone's broom."

George and Fred both glared at Hermione like it was her fault I wasn't going to help. As they slunk off in defeat, George grumbled, "Nosy little git."

I blinked in surprise when I realized not all the Gryffindors had left. Harry Potter had stayed behind and was looking at me, his green eyes filled with determination.

"Alex, right? We met at your dad's shop."

Seeing me nod, he continued, "I just wanted to apologize. If I had known, I would never have used it."

Puzzlement must have shown on my face because Harry held out his Nimbus 2000 as if to explain.

Ah, now I saw where this was going. Ever since Rita had started printing stories about Delvin and my grandfather, there had been an outcry in Britain's magical community that filtered down to students at Hogwarts.

Mostly it was just vocal offers of support coupled with promises of boycotting all of Nimbus products. The fact that most of them probably couldn't even afford a Nimbus made their support less impressive, but I thanked them all the same.

Some took it more seriously. I had a few distant cousins from Clan Macmillan who were pretty vocal about everything. But, every time I saw them, I couldn't help but remember that the clan effectively banished my grandma just when she needed them most. When it comes to my family, I don't forgive or forget.

I turned my attention back to Harry Potter. Seeing him standing before me looking so anxious made me feel a little awkward. Not wanting to interfere with his early years had made me want to stay away, yet here he was, standing right in front of me.

With a half-smile, I waved away his concern. "Don't worry about it. It's just a broom."

I motioned for him to draw closer, "Can you keep a secret."

Nodding eagerly, Harry leaned in.

"I have a feeling that soon, my grandfather's work will return to where it belongs. So, don't throw away that Nimbus just yet."

Harry flashed me a grin, seemingly pleased to be in on the secret and promised to keep it quiet.

As the golden trio wandered off, I sighed. It was a little annoying having everyone know my family's business. But, as long as it hurt Delvin, it was an acceptable tradeoff.

Having my family's history known to everyone wasn't the only thing that changed since the Conference. Revealing both my company and my status as the youngest silver-ranked charm-crafter had stunned the magical community.

Already, I had received dozens of letters. Some were the gold-rank enchanters from the guild. Geovani had kept my entry a secret, and they wanted to introduce themselves. While most of the letters were full of congratulations, a few were downright condescending. Almost like I should be grateful that they were taking the time to write to me. I guess I shouldn't be too surprised. It's probably difficult for most of them to take a 14-year-old seriously. I know I should do the mature thing and just let it go, but that's not who I am. One day, when I make it to the top, I'll be sure to rub their noses in it.

I also received letters from some silver-rankers suggesting possible future collaborations on projects, which made me preen a little. I was a little embarrassed when Anna had to inform me that my so-called smug look was back with a vengeance.

Of course, not all letters were congratulatory. I got a few from some lower-ranked guilders who insisted that I somehow cheated my way to silver and that the Slipstream Charm had to be the work of my father. Those I tossed, some people will always feel jealousy when they see others succeed where they failed.

Outside of letters, my social status within Hogwarts had changed quite a bit, particularly within Ravenclaw. I had always been at the top of my year. But now, even the older students were paying close attention to me. Ravenclaws tended to be highly competitive, so seeing how successful I was made many both proud and envious at the same time.

What was annoying was it became almost impossible to study in the Ravenclaw common room peacefully. Other Ravenclaws constantly hovered like flies buzzing in my ear. The girls were the biggest distractions. They were constantly asking me things and giggling and flashing pretty smiles when I looked up to reply. Thankfully, Jessica came to my defense and was able to chase most of them away. Out of everyone in Ravenclaw, she was the only one who didn't treat me any differently. Being around her was pleasant and relaxing. We had many late-night discussions where we discussed magic.

It wasn't just the students who had taken notice of what I had done. Many of the professors started treating me differently. Professor Flitwick was probably the proudest. After class one day, he pulled me aside and handed me an advanced book on enchanting.

It wasn't all good. I think Professor Snape was a little annoyed seeing my name constantly in the paper. He singled me out in class and forced me to brew an invisibility potion, a highly unstable potion requiring the utmost focus. I think he may have been trying to hint to me in his own way that being so visible isn't a good thing. But, there was a real possibility that he was just being a dick.

As for me, now that project firebolt had been launched, I found myself with some additional free time. Seeing as how the International Dueling Tournament was right around the corner, I made sure to spend some of the time practicing against my fellow Silver Spears.

Having missed last year's tournament, I was looking forward to competing this year. This wouldn't be like the local tournament, where I competed against fellow students. This time, I would be competing against the best duelers from around the world. Part of me was curious whether I would meet anyone who would be my match.

I had a feeling I would surprise a few Dueling Masters from the Silver Spears. Over the past few months, I had dedicated a small amount of time each week practicing my nonverbal incantations. In the beginning, they were a pain in the butt, requiring a tremendous amount of focus. But, like a snowball getting bigger as it rolls down a hill, I find that nonverbal spells are getting easier for me to use.

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As time rolled on by, the only thing of concern was Rita Skeeter quit writing stories about Delvin. At first, I was annoyed, thinking she was trying to worm her way out of our deal. But then she didn't respond to any of my letters, and I began to worry that it might be something else.

So, the night before the spring holiday, I decided it was time for a house call. I knew from my research on her that she had a small cottage in Hogsmeade.

I waited until it was well past midnight before I made my move. Before leaving the Ravenclaw common room, I made sure my preparations were ready. Unfolding a large piece of parchment, I waved my wand over it and said, "I solemnly swear that I am up to no good."

Immediately, lines of ink began appearing, revealing my copy of the Marauders Map. Wordlessly, I activated a light on the tip of my wand so I could get a better look. There was always one Professor on watch roaming around, not to mention Argus Filch and his cat, Mrs. Norris.

Not taking any chances, I also used the Disillusionment Charm, making me nearly invisible. I had come a long way with the charm, and I was determined to get to the point where I could make myself completely invisible.

Feeling a slight tap on my leg, I turned and found Athena looking right at me, even with the Disillusionment Charm activated.

Knowing what she wanted, I said, "Yes, you're coming."

My past adventures taught me that it paid to have someone you couldn't sneak upon watching your back.

Moving through the castle, I made my way to the large, floor-length mirror tucked away in a forgotten corner on the fourth floor. It was the entrance to the underground passageway that led to the Silver Spears dueling room. But, it also led to Hogsmeade.

The mirror rippled like quicksilver when I placed my wand on the surface. As always, passing through felt like I was moving through a layer of damp heat. On the other side, I found myself in a tunnel lined with stone.

Holding my wand aloft, I lit up the tunnel and started making my way through. I passed by the secret door leading to the Silver Spears dueling arena and pushed on to Hogsmeade. Tired of walking, Athena leaped onto her favorite perch, my shoulder. How she could accurately aim for my shoulder when I was nearly invisible was beyond me.

The tunnel exit took me to the back alley behind the Three Broomstick, the most famous pub in Hogsmeade.

Thankfully, at this time of night, Hogsmeade was mostly empty. I did pass by a few people stumbling out of the Hogs Head as I made my way to the outskirts of Hogsmeade. One of them rubbed his eyes in disbelief when he caught sight of Athena, who was seemingly floating along in midair. If I weren't on a mission, I probably would have stayed to mess with them—no doubt due to Fred and George's influence.

Thirty minutes into my walk had me wishing I had brought a broom. Rita lived at the furthest edge of Hogsmeade.

When I finally located her two-story white house, I paused. All of the windows were covered with dark curtains preventing me from seeing inside.

Seeing how I had a ready-made people detector with me, I turned to Athena and asked, "What do you think? Anyone home?"

While I haven't improved my ability to communicate with Athena, she almost always understands what I need from her.

She leaped off my shoulder and started circling the house making sure to stay on the outside of the small wooden fence. I followed behind, content to let Athena do her thing.

After lapping the house, she turned, looked up at me, and nodded her head.

"How many?" I asked.

Athena looked back at the house and chuffed.

I rolled my eyes, "That's hardly helpful. I need a number."

Athena looked at me with her reproachful green eyes as if to say if I had a better grasp on our bond, it would be clear what she meant.

"I promise I will work on it," I assured her.

I held up a single finger and asked, "This many?"

Athena looked back at the house before looking back at me and nodding.

I knew if she claimed that there was only one person in the house, there was only one person. No one in the magical community could quite agree on how, but it was pretty much agreed that it was impossible to surprise or sneak up on a Lamassu. Merlin knows I've tried.

Wanting as much detail as possible, I asked, "Do you remember Rita Skeeter?"

Athena hissed, which I took as confirmation. Athena had met her once, and she disapproved. Something about Rita set her off.

"Is that her up there?"

I got another hiss confirming it was Rita.

Even knowing Rita was in there, I still didn't make a move to cross the fence. Most Hogwarts graduates could lay down a basic ward, and using a fence as the framework makes it even easier.

Back in my first year, I had learned to break through a ward. Of course, it was mainly by brute force. Now, I was on a whole new level. Wards significantly focused on sixth-year Charms and DADA, and I had always been a quick study.

I pointed my wand at the fence and silently cast, "Moirus Revelio."

The wooden fence began glowing, ghostly blue color. I smiled at the sight. It was a basic Screaming Ward, straight from the pages of The Standard Book of Spells, Grade 6. It wouldn't keep anyone out but cross it without the owner's permission, and it would start wailing a piercing sound that made it difficult to think and draw attention for miles.

I started making my way around to the front of the house, examining the ward for any weak point. I could easily bulldoze my way through the ward. But, I wanted to test my skill level and see if I could sneak through the ward.

Ever so softly, I silently cast, "Tollere Impedimentum."

It was the same spell I used to drop the wards surrounding Octavius, the vampire I freed back in my first year. Back then, I didn't really know what I was doing. I merely poured power and magic into the ward until it collapsed. Now that I have a much better understanding of wards, I am far more efficient. The best way to look at it is like picking a lock. Only instead of using tools to move tumblers, you mentally pick your way through the ward. The only way to do this is by being sensitive to magical fluctuations. A skill that I have constantly been sharpening ever since my unexpected trip to China. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.

Less than a minute later, I smiled as I felt my magic slip through the other side. At this point, I had two options: I could drop the ward entirely or slip by and let the ward reform behind me. After thinking it over, I decided to leave the spell up. Dropping it would let others know that someone had been here.

Rita's house had a red door, and as I approached, I felt another spell. I leaned closer, trying to get a feel for the spell. Once I figured out what it was, I was almost offended. It was a basic locking spell. I know students at Hogwarts with better security spells on their trunks.

"Alohomora." I nonverbally cast.

There was a loud click as the lock turned in the door. I froze at the sound, and mentally chastised myself. I should have used the silencing charm in conjunction with the unlocking charm.

Still, after a few moments, I decided no one had heard me. Not wanting to be heard again, I pointed my wand at myself and added the silencing charm. That way, Rita wouldn't hear me coming. Yes, it would give her a bit of a scare to have me materialize right in front of her. But, she needs to remember how our relationship works.

Moving through the doorway, I started moving through Rita's home. Decorating the walls were framed newspapers of Rita ripping into people's lives. In my opinion, her animagus form says everything about her personality. She is a bug, a lower life form. One that needs to be stepped on, and I am happy to be the boot that does it.

I cast another variation of the Revealing charm, which let me know the downstairs was empty. A glowing red pulse indicated that Rita was upstairs in the far-right bedroom.

Thanks to the spell I had cast on myself, I moved through the house, silent as a ghost. Well, maybe not a ghost. They tended to talk one's ear off if you let them.

Once I reached the top of the stairs, I made my way to the master bedroom. The door was slightly open, letting me peer inside. Surprisingly a tiny lamp on the end table was lit, allowing me to glimpse a person wrapped in a white blanket on a large bed with blue sheets.

Even though I didn't make a noise, Rita must have felt someone was watching her.

"Who's there?" A fearful, hoarse voice rang out.

Pushing open the door, I dropped my spells, revealing myself.

"You," Rita accused from the bed. "You ruined my life. I hate that I ever met you."

I watched her rant and raved from the bed. Rita looked terrible. Her blond curly hair was starting to grey and fray, her skin was full of poxes that were oozing pus, and her teeth were starting to rot. It didn't take me long to put together the clues. Rita was suffering from a Wasting Curse.

"You broke our contract." I pronounced, my voice full of judgment.

Rita whined pitifully, "It's all your fault. If I had known who was backing Delvin Whithorn, I never would have agreed to write about him."

I shook my head. "I warned you. I warned you not to dig into the Whithorn Family. But, you couldn't help yourself."

Rita wailed at me. "I was just being thorough."

I let out a sigh, "What happened?"

Rita's green eyes darted around the room, looking for shadows. "Someone came to my house." She whispered. "I don't know who it was; they were wearing a mask. They. They forced me to the ground while they tore through my office, destroying all my notes."

Unable to help myself, a feeling of pity rose within me. I hadn't wanted this to happen. Yeah, Rita was a piece of work, but I never intended for her to be targeted by the Syndicate.

Wanting to know more, I asked, "What happened next?"

In a small voice, Rita replied, "They made me swear an unbreakable vow. To never investigate, write, or report about anyone named Whithorn."

She held up a wavering hand that had a few fingernails falling out. I could see the faint outline of chains wrapped around her hand—signs of an Unbreakable Vow.

I narrowed my eyes as a thought occurred to me. "None of what you've told me would break our contract."

Rita gulped as tiny beads of sweat started rolling down the sides of her face. "They wanted to know."

"Know what?" I harshly demanded.

'Why I was writing so much about Delvin."

In a cold voice, I questioned, "What did you tell them?"

Rita fell silent, so I repeated myself, "What did you tell them?"

"I didn't have a choice," Rita pleaded. "I thought they were going to kill me. I told them how we met and everything I had learned about you since then."

A small voice in the back of my head told me it wasn't her fault. Rita wasn't equipped to deal with the Syndicate.

Then, just as I was about to let it go, Rita added, "I told them everything I had learned about your family."

That small voice in the back of my head pleading for mercy fell oddly silent.

Without realizing it, I had moved across the room and loomed over Rita's bed. Unlike the boiling rage that I felt inside, my voice came out in a deceptively calm tone. "What did you just say?"

Rita shrank at the tone of my voice. Despite the calmness in my voice, I think she realized that she had crossed a line that she should never have crossed.

At once, any sympathy I had for her dried up. I could have forgiven Rita for giving them information on me. But, my family was the most important thing in the world to me. Anyone that threatens them, no matter how slight, will have to deal with me.

As I stood over Rita, the hand holding my wand twitched for a second. I couldn't help but have a sneaking suspicion that she gave them more than she needed to. I always knew Rita might one day try and screw with me. But, I didn't imagine that it would involve my family. Part of me, the dark part of me, wanted to take my wand and teach her how badly she had miscalculated.

But, after a few deep breaths, I was able to banish that impulse. Besides, seeing how badly the Wasting Curse was affecting her, the best punishment was to leave her here to suffer the fate of breaking our contract. There was a reason why people didn't break magical contracts with curses on them. To do so was to invite the curse to really sink into your body, making it extremely hard to remove. Looking at how bad the curse was affecting Rita, I would guess she will be dealing with the Wasting Curse for several years. It couldn't happen to a nicer person.

I guess the only thing to do was remove any trace of my involvement. I used my wand to render Rita unconscious. Using what I learned from Professor Lockart, I went to work on her memory and removed all traces of our encounters. Then I created a few memories of why she went after the Whithorns. As for her memories of the Syndicate, I left those but added a few details, making them the ones responsible for her condition. Considering her newfound fear of the Syndicate, I knew she wouldn't be explaining her condition to anyone.

When I was finished, I went through her office to make sure she didn't have anything in there that would give me away. Thankfully, the Syndicate was thorough. What they didn't take, they destroyed.

Once that was finished, I left the house and slipped through the ward with none the wiser. It didn't take me long to get back to Hogwarts. As I lay in bed, I decided on my next move. I needed advice. It was time to speak with Uncle John.