At Hogwarts, these competitions had always come easily to Becky—but Hogwarts was more than a year ago, now, and Becky considered herself very much an underdog when facing off with individuals with far more life experience than she. It was for that reason that she had decidedly shied away from the professional level competition, hoping that entering as a hobbyist, in spite of her work as a potioneer, would help her see more success—and build her blossoming confidence.

The witch went to work on her wit-sharpening potion, resisting the urge to gag as she poured the armadillo bile into her cauldron. After a reasonable amount of time (her opinion), Becky was satisfied with her results. As at Hogwarts, she raised her hand so that the surly-looking moderator might expect her work.

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