A Taste of Magic

Chapter 122: 122nd Course - Friendly Competition

The enchanted ceiling of the Great Hall was bright white from cloud and snow. Thick clouds moved about with snow constantly falling but the magical flakes melted well above the heads of the people below. The windows rattled from the wind and just looking at the ceiling and the outdoors was enough to instill a sense of chilliness, but the rooms were warm and the atmosphere was fine and friendly.

Dumbledore rose to his feet and smiled genially. "Good morning, everyone," he said warmly and the conversation died as the students looked up at him. "It seems like winter has finally arrived. Luckily, I have some news that will hopefully make it more palatable for us all."

His smile grew, eager to be shared. "It is my distinct pleasure to announce that the Winter Festival will now be an annual occurrence!" He clapped along when the students erupted into cheers and applause. "After our impromptu version last year that was loosely based off the one during the TriWizard, I am pleased to make it a regular event. This year, we will be having the same stores from Hogsmeade setting up stalls to sell things at reduced prices for the students. We will also be having Quidditch and Shinty and Hurling games as well. There will be some other things set up but we will have a special event."

His eyes twinkled with delight. "During the day of the event, we will have a competition like we had during the TriWizard. People who wish to, can set up a stall and have something to sell. Then there will be a vote and whoever wins, will receive a prize. The prize will be a special treat made by our Raiser of Morale and the architect of the events, Harry Potter."

Dumbledore chuckled at the whispering and looks of interest that filled the Great Hall. "Now, of course, do not fail in your studies because the Festival is taking place after term ends and right before holiday begins. Submit your proposals to your Head of House. That will be all. Enjoy your breakfast and do look forward to the Festival because I certainly am." He sat down and breakfast appeared on the tables while people started chatting excitedly.

"What's the treat?" Parvati asked immediately.

"You'll have to wait and see," Harry smiled.

"Harry! Keeping information from your family?!" she gasped.

"I'm sorry," Harry said with a weak smile. "But it'll be a good one! If I can make it right. I'll need to practice."

"Don't be sorry," Padma snorted, poking her sister. "Don't weaponize family like that."

"Grandmum does it," Parvati grumbled.

"Okay, fair," Padma laughed.

"Also, I'm not judging or taking part in the judging," Harry said, "to make sure it's fair."

"There goes my plans to bribe you," Daphne sighed with a wink.

"Oh wait, does this mean you're not taking part in the competition?" Tracey asked. "Wait, you can't be if you're making the prize."

"No I'm not," Harry nodded. "We're going to have lunch and dinner so I'm doing that of course while helping the organization stuff. I'll have enough on my plate. Literally!" He grinned as the others groaned at his joke.

"Oooh, this means we might be splitting up to compete then," Hermione said. "Based on what we want to do."

The extended friend group looked at each other soberly.