Wilber chuckled heartily upon hearing Jasmine’s light pushback about sweet gummy worms. “Dearest Jasmine! I would not dispute you on that. Earl, however, would.” He winked before shaking his bald head, the crown which was glistening under the flames warming the Hall. “I’m afraid it’s neither, my dear. Your attempts are appreciated. Professor Cox on the other hand…” Wilber paused for dramatic effects. Really, what was life without a little suspense? “Has hit the nail on the head! The Moving Staircases is what I had in mind. Though I will certainly admire your literal reasoning about the term. It certainly went by quickly, did it not?” After greeting Aurora, Marcus and any other staff members that arrived before declaring, “Well, the time for the speech has arrived!”

Wilber rose from his comfortable throne, arms spread wide as though determined to embrace each person sitting in the Hall at once. “Good evening! As another Hogwarts year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the the happenings throughout that time.” He paused to gaze in the direction of each House Table. “This term has been filled with discoveries of all sorts both magical and personal. You have brewed potions both successful and… remarkably adventurous. You have cast spells that illuminated the classrooms at times. And you have shown, again and again, that courage comes in many forms - sometimes loud and blazing, sometimes small and steady.”

The Headmaster folded his hands, eyes twinkling. “To our first-years and transfer students: you arrived bright-eyed and nervous, and now stand a little taller, a little wiser, and just as bright-eyed, though perhaps more from late-night revising. To our older students: thank you for guiding the younger ones, intentionally or otherwise. And to our seventh-years… though your path soon carries you beyond these walls, remember: Hogwarts always takes its children back - though preferably not through a broken window.” Here, Wilber cast a sideways glance on either side of him, at the Professors sitting there. “I must, of course, acknowledge the tremendous efforts of our staff. Without them, your lessons would be far less enlightening, and the castle far more on fire.”

He now inclined his head, smile still in place. “Congratulations are in order for Gryffindor, who have once again proven that bravery, heart, and just a hint of healthy chaos can indeed triumph. Well done! Your House Cup win is well deserved.” There was a pause for applause. “Another round of enthusiastic appreciation, this time for Slytherin whose skill, strategy, and relentless ambition carried them to victory on the Quidditch pitch. A magnificent performance from start to finish.” Wilber halted in his speech yet again to facilitate the clapping. “Hufflepuff, champions of Gobstones! Patience, precision, and remarkable cheerfulness under pressure have earned you this achievement. Splendid work.” Wilber brought his hands together, clapping along with everyone, not just for Hufflepuff but for the other three as well. “A gentle reminder that each of the four Houses has won in some manner. While academics are important, I am quite pleased to see how well you bonded during our informal gatherings, especially that particularly memorable lakeside event that left even the merpeople rather intrigued. Remember, character building, friendship, and kindness remain far greater treasures.”

The old man spread his arms wide again. “So! Enough of my ramblings. Let us celebrate all that you have achieved. Rest well, return to your respective homes safely, and may your holiday be filled with joy, enjoyment, and minimal mischief… or at least mischief you don’t get caught for. Thank you. Enjoy the feast our House Elves have so delightfully prepared!” Wilber sat smoothly upon his throne once more, while simultaneously, the platters housed on each table were magically filled with deliciousness.