บท 157: Chapter 158: The Triwizard Tournament Begins
"This term, the Triwizard Tournament will replace the dull Quidditch matches. It's actually something worth looking forward to," Malfoy said as he leaned on the table, chin resting on his hand, sounding bored. "Unfortunately, while my father mentioned the tournament's return, he couldn't provide any specifics about the tasks, even he doesn't have that information."
Lilian's crimson eyes reflected her curiosity. "Isn't it obvious? Every Triwizard Tournament has a maze; that's practically a given. As for the other two tasks, they're usually treasure hunts with a bit of danger involved. Overall, it's just a combination of such challenges."
Thor and Loki exchanged a knowing smile.
"This term's Defense Against the Dark Arts professor hasn't been announced yet. The seat is still vacant," Loki noted lazily, steering the conversation in a different direction.
"It's a shame Professor Lupin left," Lilian sighed. "Forget about stammering Quirrell or that insufferable Lockhart. Lupin was truly the best Defense Against the Dark Arts professor I've ever had. He brought practical skills into the classroom—you couldn't help but admire him."
Augustus scanned the staff table. At its center sat Headmaster Dumbledore, his flowing silver hair and beard shimmering in the candlelight. His deep green robes were embroidered with stars and moons. Dumbledore rested his chin on his fingertips, his half-moon spectacles glinting as he gazed at the enchanted ceiling, seemingly lost in thought.
Augustus's thoughts turned to the Triwizard Tournament. Naturally, with his curiosity for unique challenges, he planned to participate. However, he knew the competitors were chosen by the Goblet of Fire, and he wondered about its mechanism. Could it be manipulated with a Confundus Charm to ensure his selection? After all, by the rules, he wasn't old enough to compete.
The Sorting Ceremony proceeded quickly, taking only a little over ten minutes to place the new students into their Houses. Most of the new Slytherins cautiously took their seats, their respect and nervousness toward their senior Housemates evident.
After the meal ended, Albus Dumbledore rose once more. The hall immediately quieted, leaving only the sound of the wind and rain outside.
"Well!" Dumbledore said, smiling at the assembled students. "Now that we've all eaten and drunk our fill—" (Hermione muttered a disapproving "Ugh!") "—I must ask for your attention for some announcements."
He continued, "As always, I remind you that the Forbidden Forest is off-limits to students, and third-years and below are not permitted to visit Hogsmeade Village."
"I must also regretfully inform you that the House Quidditch Cup will not be held this year."
Unlike the uproar from Gryffindor, Slytherin's calm silence exuded confidence. For most pure-bloods, this wasn't news at all.
Dumbledore pressed on, "This is because a significant event will begin in October and last throughout the school year. It will demand much of our staff's time and effort—but I am certain you will all enjoy it immensely. I am delighted to announce that this year, Hogwarts will host—"
At that moment, a deafening clap of thunder roared, and the Great Hall's doors swung open with a bang.
A man stood in the doorway, leaning on a long staff and draped in a black traveling cloak. All heads turned toward the stranger as a forked lightning bolt illuminated his scarred face.
Augustus's gaze flickered with intrigue as he studied the figure, his expression thoughtful.
"Mad-Eye Moody? What's he doing at Hogwarts? An Auror visiting at this time—could it be official business?" Lilian asked, her tone laced with surprise.
"An Auror? Are you sure?" Augustus asked.
"Yes," Lilian nodded. "My father introduced me to him at a banquet once. His appearance is so distinctive it's impossible to forget."
The stranger walked up to Dumbledore and extended a scarred hand. Dumbledore shook it, speaking to him quietly. Whatever the headmaster asked, the man gave a curt, unsmiling response, his voice low. Dumbledore nodded and gestured for him to take a seat at an empty spot to his right.
"Allow me to introduce our new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor," Dumbledore broke the silence cheerfully. "Professor Moody."
"Interesting," Augustus murmured, a faint smile on his lips. "This man is quite intriguing."
Loki glanced at Augustus, puzzled. Moody was indeed a skilled Auror, but Augustus's words seemed to carry an unusual weight. What about Moody could possibly pique Augustus's interest?
Typically, a new professor's introduction would prompt applause, but this time, the hall remained silent. Only Dumbledore and Hagrid clapped briefly before realizing how awkward it sounded. Then, unexpectedly, applause began at the Slytherin table. Augustus had started clapping nonchalantly. Though confused, the other Slytherins quickly joined in, creating a ripple of enthusiastic applause. Eventually, the other Houses followed suit, and the hall resounded with cheers for Moody.
Moody surveyed the hall with a cold, scrutinizing gaze. His mechanical eye swiveled until it locked onto Augustus. For a brief moment, their eyes met—one artificial and probing, the other steady and calculating.
Dumbledore cleared his throat.
"As I was saying," he continued with a smile, "in the coming months, we will have the great honor of hosting an extraordinary event—one that has not been held for over a century. I am delighted to announce that the Triwizard Tournament will take place at Hogwarts this year."
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