Wilber was seated at the staff table per usual, where greetings, shared summer plans, snack discussions, and dad jokes were presented. "Greetings, my dear colleagues." Chuckling at the mention of cheetos dust, he hoped some things never changed among them.
By Jupiter, what an astounding year it had been! It seemed only yesterday they were welcoming the students back, and yet here they were already at the other end of it. He looked toward the skies in the enchanted ceiling, wondering what else might befall the wonderful heads tonight. But the time for dawdling was over. With one last glance toward his colleagues and a nod of acknowledgement, Wilber stepped toward the dais. His outstretched hands gradually drove the chatter to silence across the Hall before he began,
"Thank you, and welcome all to the Ending Feast. I trust your stomachs are screaming for substance, but fear not, those tummies will be satisfied soon enough. I’d like to announce that the Time Capsule has been filled to satisfaction, and all of your submissions have been collected. As such, the contents will remain sealed for the next fifty years. And trust me, those years will fly by sooner than you can imagine. Why, I’d like to say those fifty years felt more like… fifteen or so years, if any."
A twinkle appeared in his eyes as he looked in a specific direction, the corner of his mouth threatening to curl into a knowing smile. "Now then, let’s first give a big round of applause to enduring the year despite the obstacles along the way." He joined in the clapping with the others before continuing. "And now, presenting the graduating Class of 2120! Please stand, as we are so proud of what you’ve accomplished throughout your school years here and anywhere else. May the knowledge you collected be used as a guide for your futures. We wish you the very best of luck, and know that we are proud of you!" Cheers were likely roaring, and stomping for the happy and somber graduates that would be enjoying the last of their days here.
"Now, the moment you’ve all been waiting for: the House Cup. Through a close race, Gryffindor is the winner of the House Cup." Wilber paused long enough to allow the loudest cheers and stomping from the Gryffindor table to ring throughout the Hall. "Annnd we commend Ravenclaw, with their sheer wit in holding onto the mantle for the majority of the term; Hufflepuff, with their supreme loyalty; and Slytherin, for their resilience in the run." There was no shortage of applause between each House before he added, "And, of course, our wonderful athletes have not gone unnoticed. The Gobstones and Quidditch Cups go to Hufflepuff!" The cheers remained amongst the House, and Wilber gave an approving nod toward their table.
"As we round out the night, let’s raise our goblets to the ending of the year and the promise of a bright future. Wherever one may go, remember that there will always be a home at Hogwarts." He gave everyone a moment to do so, his expression softening as he looked across the students and staff alike. "And now, we feast!"
With a clap of Wilber’s hands, the food was revealed at each table. Dig in!
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