The rain drummed heavily against the high, dark glass around the Great Hall. The stormy ceiling flashed against the golden plates in front of the students. Jazz rose to her feet, and the chatter in the hall died away as their Headmistress beamed around at them.
"My dear ANO students, welcome to the summer semester at Hogwarts! Although we will be together for a shorter time than our usual semester here in the castle, I believe you'll find your time spent will be no less engaging. Our Prefects along with their Heads of Houses have prepared a suitable curriculum for you to follow in the warm months before the change of the season and the start of our regular semester. Firstly, I'm pleased to introduce our new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Professor Sylv"
The hall broke out into polite clapping but it was quickly drowned out by the raucous applause from the Slytherin table. The celebration was cut short as a particularly bright flash of lightning pierced the bewitched ceiling followed by a deep rumble, but the headmistress continued undeterred. "A few items, before we send you off to bed. First years should note that the forest on the grounds is forbidden to all pupils. And a few of our older students would do well to remember that as well."
Jazz's eyes twinkled in the direction of the Weasley twins, Spookymuffin, and Skadooshbag. "Those found to be breaking the rules will find themselves losing points for their House in addition to time spent in detention. Since this is a shortened semester, the House Cup will be rewarded on October the 18th. Good luck to each and every one of you, and may the best House win."
The headmistress took a moment to pause and survey the room as the murmurs from the tables died down once again. "In addition to the House Cup, Hogwarts welcomes back the Triwizard Tournament, although in a slightly more captivating manner. Instead of one champion per School, we will have three champions per House in the ANO Triwizard Tournament during this semester. The Goblet of Fire will be placed in front of the Great Hall in three days time. I encourage any Hogwarts student who feels themselves capable enough to submit their name for consideration."
"Now, that's enough words from me." Jazz gave a subtle wave of her wand and the golden plates along with the remains of the welcome feast disappeared from the tables. "You will now report to your common rooms, where your Prefects await you with further instructions on how to earn House Points, and what the Triwizard Tournament will entail."
