#25 Dinner -- End of Year Feast

Headmaster Rickard left his seat to approach the podium at the front of the Head Table, facing the students as their chatter faded. He paused to look out at them all, having only been their Headmaster for a year -- but those closer to the front caught a glimpse of what could only be a hint of pride.

'Another year at Hogwarts has gone,' Rickard said.

His voice easily carried throughout the hall.

'We have gained much, this year,' he said, gesturing at the staff who shared with him the achievement of having lasted their first year at Hogwarts in their current positions. 'And lost, as well.'

Rickard glanced at Gryffindor table, though didn't linger. Tonight was to be celebrated, and the students needed a pick-me-up... or at least a distraction.

'What a year it has been. I trust you'd learned a lot. I'm sure we all look forward to a summer of rest, before a fresh new year begins,' he said. Rickard hadn't prepared a speech, as he wanted it to flow naturally 'Before we go even a moment further, Some of our Professors would like a few words...'

He stepped aside, allowing someone else to approach the podium as needed.

First was Professor Rivera, who wore a blue headband topped with two facing eagles as a show of house pride. Win or lose, it didn't matter; she was proud of each and every one of her students.

'I won't take up much of your time,' Rivera said. 'I just wanted to let you all know that, after a year of walking in Professor Flitwick's shoes, I've decided to revive one of his beloved traditions -- the Frog Choir.'

There was a brief moment of excited chatter at this, though in small groups spread throughout the hall. 1st years didn't know what that meant, unless they had an older sibling who'd partaken in the past, but the older students sat straighter -- at the mention of something that could be added to their Academy applications.

'Auditions will be held during the Start of Year Feast, in front of the entire school,' Rivera went on to say, which dampened a few spirits. 'Music sheets are in front of you. If you'd like to join, which I assure you is quite a rewarding experience, take one and practice over the summer. Thank you.'

She stepped down, and a few students startled as a stack of sheet music appeared at various points along the house tables. Some took a page and pocketed it, while others stared in deep contemplation. Was it worth trying out for? The song was Something Wicked This Way Comes.

With Professor Rivera back in her seat, the next to address the school was an expected one: Professor Trelawney. She was smiling and energetic, yet her eyes red-rimmed to match her bittersweet expression.

'Hello, all.' She peered at them through her overlarge glasses. 'A lot of mixed emotions here, but I feel it's now that I need to make this announcement. I have foreseen that my time has come to move on -- to see what the future has in store for me beyond these lovely castle walls.'

Divination students barely reacted, as if they'd been well aware of this happening. Not by divine foresight, of course, but Professor Trelawney had clearly taken the care to prepare them and give them her proper and fond farewell. A few still sniffled and wiped their eyes at the news.

'I've been in this post for so long, Hogwarts has become my home,' Trelawney added, dabbing her eyes with a blue handkerchief. 'But I have seen the beyond, and there is more life out there to be lived. I am ready now. And I thank all of you, for being a part of the memories I will take with me and cherish. Thank you. I wish you all the best.'

Tears flooding her quietly, Trelawney shakily returned to her seat. Professors McGonagall and Rivera hurried over to comfort her.

There was a moment to digest everything, including the last of dinner as that time was drawing to a close soon as well. Rickard waited, in case any further announcements were needed, then returned to the podium.

'We wish you all the best as well. Now then,' he said with an eager look. 'It is my understanding that the House Cup here needs awarding...'

For this he'd made notes; Rickard fished a scrap of parchment from his robes. The points had never been this high, at least not for a very long time, so he made sure it was entirely accurate. A lot was riding on this, apparently... judging by the stares students met him with, desperate to hear what he had to say.

Unlike past years, the banners overhead did not reveal the winner; all houses were represented, as a show of unity after the previous day they'd all endured. Some had high hopes for Gryffindor winning, as a way to honour Jacob Thatcher, but Rickard was no Dumbledore. Not even in tribute to either of the Gryffindors they'd lost.

Those who won the cup would do so fair and square, in merit to all their hard work and dedication throughout the school year. One event would not change that.

'In fourth place, Hufflepuff, with one thousand, five hundred and fifty-six points,' Rickard said, allowing Hufflepuff house a chance to applaud. 'In third place, Gryffindor, with two thousand, three hundred and fifty-four points.'

Another round of applause, louder than the placement warranted. Gryffindor earned it, no matter their ranking. Rickard allowed them as much.

'In second place, Ravenclaw, with two thousand, four hundred and sixty-seven points.' He paused, as that house cheered loudly. With Slytherin's reputation for almost always winning, whoever came in second place certainly felt like a winner for that alone. 'And finally, in first place, Slytherin house, with two thousand, nine hundred and fifteen points.'

Slytherin house erupted into applause, which only soured Gryffindor moods... and that of many others as well. This was not the year in which another house triumphed over them, but no matter how they felt about it -- the win was still Slytherin's achievement that ought to be celebrated.

Rickard, a Slytherin himself, clapped with them and even showed a rare grin. He then raised his hands, and all the banners overhead turned to green and silver -- showcasing the snake mascot of Slytherin house. 

'Slytherin wins the House Cup.'

Cheers grew louder, like a jubilant storm, of which none of the other houses joined in on -- just watching bitterly as Slytherins celebrated. Professor Snape was stoic, but clapping so fast it was hard to track his hands. Professor McGonagall moodily ate pudding, while Professors Rivera and Sprout applauded the winners with pride and acknowledgement. 

Frog Choir is an extra activity, similar to Quidditch but on a smaller scale. Meetings are a few times a year. Singers may perform for the school or sometimes elsewhere on special trips. This is considered a collaborative club, overseen by Professor Rivera -- who welcomes song and theme ideas.

Practices or performances often occur on the same say as Hogsmeade Trips, though not always. Adding this to your Career File is very beneficial, and also comes with its own rewards. Once you have successfully auditioned, you may partake or drop out at any time. Each member is permitted a max of 1 character, and 1 Bloodlines character, to be part of the Frog Choir.