Immortal Magic (Book 1)

Chapter Thirty-Seven

Allison's Point of View.

Once Professor Dumbledore had finally regained everyone's attention, the Great Hall slowly quietened down again. Though whispers still floated between the tables, excitement buzzed through the room like electricity.

"Now," Dumbledore continued, smiling around at all of us, "I realise that some of you may not fully understand what the Triwizard Tournament involves. So, for those who already know the history, I ask for your patience while I give a brief explanation."

The hall fell silent once more. "The Triwizard Tournament was first established over seven hundred years ago as a friendly competition between the three largest European schools of magic. Hogwarts, Beauxbatons, and Durmstrang."

At the mention of the other schools, excited murmurs broke out again around the hall.

"A single champion from each school is selected to compete in three magical tasks designed to test bravery, intelligence, and magical ability," Dumbledore explained. "The schools take turns hosting the tournament every five years as a way of strengthening international magical ties."

His expression dimmed slightly. "Unfortunately, the tournament gained a reputation for being exceptionally dangerous. Over time, the number of serious injuries and deaths became too great, and the competition was discontinued."

Hermione stiffened beside me, her eyes widening in alarm. Dumbledore continued speaking, explaining how the Ministry and the schools had spent years attempting to safely reinstate the Tournament.

"This year," he said, "the heads of Beauxbatons and Durmstrang will arrive at Hogwarts in October, bringing with them a shortlist of potential champions."

The excitement in the hall grew louder. "On Halloween night, the champions will be chosen by an impartial judge. The selected students will compete for eternal glory, honour for their school," Dumbledore paused dramatically, "and a prize of one thousand Galleons."

"I'm entering," Fred whispered immediately.

I glanced behind me to see him already leaning toward George, Lee, and a group of nearby students, all of them grinning excitedly.

Fred wasn't the only one, either. Every table in the Great Hall had erupted into eager conversation.

But the noise faded again the moment Dumbledore raised his hands for silence.

"Now," he continued, "as much as I know, many of you will wish to bring glory to Hogwarts, the Ministry, the heads of the participating schools, and I myself have agreed upon certain restrictions this year."

The hall grew still. "Only students who are seventeen years of age or older will be permitted to enter the Tournament."

The Gryffindor table exploded. "That's rubbish!" George shouted. Fred looked equally outraged while Lee groaned dramatically beside him.

"It is a precaution put in place for your own safety," Dumbledore said firmly over the uproar. "The tasks involved are highly dangerous, and I will personally ensure that no underage student manages to enter."

His eyes flickered directly toward Fred and George. "So," he added calmly, "I strongly advise those below the age line not to waste their time attempting it."

The twins immediately exchanged identical looks that practically screamed challenge accepted. 

"Durmstrang and Beauxbatons will arrive in October and remain here for most of the school year," Dumbledore continued. "I trust that you will all extend every courtesy to our guests."