Cyrus’s academic progress had long surpassed that of her peers, and her stellar performance in class was plain for all to see. The professors were quite fond of such an exceptional and well-behaved student. Gradually, the Slytherins came to trust and respect Cyrus even more. Combined with the absolute loyalty shown to her by the prefect, Kate, her voice and authority in Slytherin were now second only to that of her Head of House, Professor Snape.
The Quidditch match was about to begin. Before the game, she had also dropped subtle hints to Flint, making it clear that the players were not to break any rules during the match. Surely the glory of Slytherin should be won through genuine skill? Salazar would certainly be heartbroken if he saw them playing dirty.
Not only did she need to show support for her own house due to her standing, but she also had to keep an eye on Quirrell’s malicious schemes against Harry. During the match, when a player's broom went out of control and hung by a thread just before a catastrophic fall, a student from the opposing house stepped in to help. Winning some goodwill from other houses was always a smart move—Quirrell had truly done her a massive favor.
Chapter 24