The headmaster sat contentedly on his throne, watching the students chatter amongst themselves like happy little chipmunks. Ah, youth! The gentleman was soon distracted by more arrivals. “Good evening, Ean,” he replied with a soft chuckle. “Ho, ho! Yes, it most certainly is! You know what they say, cleanliness is next to happiness.”

There was the potions mistress! “Hello, Amelia, dear,” Wilber greeted, smiling. “You can say that again! Speaking of which, that reminds me of a joke. What did the nut say when it sneezed?” While he awaited her answer, he took the opportunity to greet the latest arrival. “Good evening, Norman. I trust you’re well this evening.”

Dhruv’s words got a smile. “Glad to hear it! Of course, no one blames you, dear. We know that wasn’t you.” All’s well that ends well. There was no lasting harm done, aside from the loss of the mirror itself. Such a shame to lose an heirloom - regrettable but necessary. Wilbur didn’t dwell on the loss for long, however. The mention of the house elves’ cooking perked him right up. “I completely agree, especially their delicious baked goods! I could really go for a sugar cookie. How about you? Is there a particular food you’re eager to sample?”


After allowing a few more moments for stragglers, Wilber rose to his feet with a soft groan. He raised a hand for quiet, pausing until he had everyone’s attention. “The end of another term at Hogwarts is upon us, young people! Tonight we have a delicious feast to look forward to, so I won’t keep you. I know you’re all hungry little chipmunks! First, a couple of announcements are in order, starting with the House Cup winner. Congratulations, Slytherin! It was a well-earned victory. Please give a round of applause!”

He turned toward the Slytherin table, leading the school in applause. When the clapping died down, he continued, “For some of you, this will be your final feast with us. Congratulations to this year’s graduating class! I trust you’ll go out into the world and shine like the bright little stars you are. A round of applause for the seventh years!”

He led another brief round of applause. “I wish you all, students and staff alike, a happy summer full of friends, family, and fun! Now let’s tuck into our meal!”

With that, plates of food appeared on the tables.