Wilber was seated amongst his colleagues. Hellos and questions about summers were exchanged, as the reflection of the enchanted ceiling filled his misty eyes. What a profound sight to behold, as he took in everything. The chattering of the students, before the Sorting commenced. His colleagues however, he sensed a little tension to his right, did some of them need a talking to? The fatherly figure in him wondered, but things were cordial and looked fine from the audience's distance, otherwise. He trusted they would work things out or come visit him for a spot of tea. Wilber's eyes gazed over in between the sorting, particularly that shrivelfig, Harold, was it? How fascinating. After the Sorting, Menon's frog choir made their debut of the year. How simply ribbeting-er... riveting!

Now then, it was his turn to showcase, standing up with his majestic robes sparkling into the evening. His hands rose to signal silence amongst the crowd as he stood in front of the dais.

"Welcome, welcome, to another year at Hogwarts! May the evening sky be fitting for one and all! To begin, we shall welcome our new professors, Professors Shimron Goth and Edmund Edgecombe, who will now be teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts and Charms, respectively. Let us also welcome Monsieur Julian Renaldi as our new School Healer." Wilber paused briefly, allowing his gaze to wander along the staff table before continuing. "Professor Lilian Hawkins will be taking over the Slytherin Head of House and Groundskeeper roles, and Professor Elara Voss will be serving as Gryffindor Head of House. Professor Sarika Curious will be teaching Arithmancy in addition to her current role as Divination Professor, while Professor Kraetos Menon will be adding Muggle Studies to his plate. I’m sure these professors will do wonderfully in their additional roles."

"Now for our sports fare, Professor Kraetos Menon will now be the Gobstones Advisor, with Mr. Edgar Cloggs continuing to run Quidditch. Information on tryouts will be posted on the common room boards very soon, so be on the lookout."

His gaze then moved across the students, lingering particularly on those who had only just been Sorted into their Houses. "And to our newest students, welcome! These halls may seem rather grand at first, but soon enough, you’ll find your way around. Or, at the very least, you’ll find someone who knows where they’re going." A small smile tugged at his lips. "For those returning to us, welcome home once again. I hope each of you will continue to make this castle a place where you can learn, grow, and perhaps make a few memories along the way."

His expression softened as he continued, "Of course, your studies should remain at the heart of your time here. Give your lessons the attention they deserve, ask questions, challenge yourselves, and don’t be afraid to seek the guidance of your professors. But Hogwarts is hardly short of opportunities beyond the classroom. There may be a few activities awaiting you this term, so keep your eyes and ears open. I wouldn’t want you to miss something simply because you were looking in the wrong corridor."

His expression turned a touch more serious, though the familiar twinkle remained in his eyes. "As our older students are aware, and to those new to these halls, you must know that the Forbidden Forest is strictly out-of-bounds without a Professor’s guidance. Unless you wish to suffer a most painful death, as one says, don’t go chasing Hippogriffs. Please stick to the Gobstones and Goblins that you’re used to. After all, we’d much rather have you leaving the Forest with your limbs attached than becoming part of its wildlife. A few students here who barely managed to live to tell the tale can attest to that."

Wilber allowed the seriousness of his warning to linger for just a moment before the familiar warmth returned to his expression. "This year, I hope, will be one filled with peace, tranquility, and plenty of opportunities to discover what you are capable of. Look after one another, take pride in your Houses, and make the most of the time you have within these walls. Whether this is your first year or your last, remember that there will always be a place for you at Hogwarts."

He gave a final nod toward the students, his smile widening. "Now then, I believe I have said quite enough. After all, I would hate to keep you from the most important part of the evening. So, let us begin the year properly… with a feast!"

Clapping his hands, the tables have turned to reveal a grand buffet for a feast. Time to dig in!