Man of Archives

Chapter 13

The morning started with me going over the results of the first stage of the Olympiad, and I wasn't all that surprised. I was in first place, which was already great. Chen Wu came in second, followed by Batuhan Kaya, then Nikol Grakhr, and Lucia de Mendoza. The next three names belonged to those who were eliminated: Mari Charmacken, Baowei Liu, and Miloneg Bolshanov. I'm certain Mari will cause a stir, as she sees herself as the top candidate for the title of Transfiguration Apprentice.

"How did the results turn out?" Alastor Moody asked when he noticed me reading the results sheet.

"Here," I said, handing him the sheet so he could see for himself.

He quickly skimmed through it and nodded approvingly.

"Well, what can I say... You're doing exceptionally well. I'm sure McGonagall and the headmaster will be pleased."

"I'm pleased too," I chuckled, "but that doesn't mean I'll let my guard down. The last thing I can afford is to relax."

"Absolutely," the old Auror agreed. "So, what's your plan for today? It's your day off, right?"

"Yes, a day off," I confirmed. "I thought about exploring the Institute and the city, but I think I'll pass."

"Why's that?" Moody asked, curious.

"Those who were eliminated aren't bound by the Olympiad's rules anymore," I sighed, referring to Mari and Miloneg. "They could attack me and cause trouble. Why risk it if there's nothing to gain?"

"So, you're not too worried?" Moody asked.

"Not really," I nodded.

"Well, alright," he nodded. "So, what will you do instead?"

"I'll prepare for the next stage."

I did spend some time preparing, but not for long. Until lunchtime, I focused on downloading books I found in the local information system. I'll analyze them later, either back at Hogwarts or during the holidays.

My sleep was calm but light. Nothing happened that could have disturbed me. Early in the morning, I got ready, had breakfast, and headed to the examination room with Moody.

There were many more people there now, eager to see who had made it to the second stage so they could place bets. I ignored the curious gazes from wizards and witches, though the latter's stares felt more predatory.

Once the door closed behind me, shutting out the crowd, I relaxed a bit. Only I could go through the next door. Moody would have to wait here until I returned. The escorts of others were already there. Since I was in first place, I got interested looks that seemed to almost undress me.

Keeping my composure, I entered the room. The other participants were also watching me—some with envy, some neutrally, and some with anger. Lucia nodded and smiled at me, clearly in a good mood today, likely because her rival was eliminated. I'd be happy too since a victory is a victory, no matter how small.

"It looks like everyone's here," said the witch who led the previous stage. "As you already know, we'll now begin the second stage. This stage is the practical portion. Each of you will have the undivided attention of the referees, who will tally your points. The practice itself will take about four hours per person. As you've likely guessed, some will take the test today, some tomorrow, and some the day after."

She paused for a moment, carefully studying our faces. Then she nodded slightly.

"Who wants to go first?" she asked.

I raised my hand almost immediately. It turned out I was the only one. None of the other participants were eager to be the first to be tested. They likely thought they could use the extra time to prepare. But... I don't think that would help. The referees know exactly what they're doing, and you can't trick them with such tactics.