Harry Potter : Bloodraven

The guests from the three schools were soon led to the Great Hall, which had been transformed into a stunning display of warmth and hospitality.

Three additional long tables, placed alongside the usual four, had been arranged for the visiting schools. Despite the added seating, the Great Hall did not feel crowded—thanks to the use of impressive space-expanding magic, it had been enlarged to comfortably accommodate everyone.

The Beauxbatons students, in their elegant blue uniforms, sat together, quietly observing the hall with polite curiosity. The Durmstrang students, dressed in heavy crimson robes, stood out with their strict and disciplined demeanor.

In contrast, the Koldovstoretz students, wearing deep forest-green cloaks trimmed with silver, sat with a relaxed confidence, their easy grace giving the impression that nothing here could faze them.

Meanwhile, the Hogwarts students whispered excitedly among themselves, stealing glances at the newcomers. The hall was alive with energy as some students speculated in hushed tones about the visitors' skills and reputations, while others marveled at their unique attire and distinctive mannerisms.

It had been years since an event like this had taken place. In the past, the Triwizard Tournament was the only occasion that brought the schools together, but it had been canceled due to its many dangers, and no one knew when or if it would resume again.

Once everyone seemed settled, Dumbledore stood from his seat and raised his hands, gently signaling for silence.

"Friends, students, and esteemed guests," Dumbledore said, his gaze sweeping across the room, pausing for a moment on each delegation. "It is with great joy that we welcome our visitors from Beauxbatons Academy of Magic, Durmstrang Institute, and Koldovstoretz School of Magic. Today marks the beginning of an exciting event... one that will celebrate not only our differences but the bonds that tie us together as a magical community."

His eyes twinkled as he added, "Let us embrace the opportunity to learn from one another and make new memories during our time together."

The old wizard kept his speech short, warmly welcoming the visiting schools and extending Hogwarts' hospitality, while explaining how the visiting students would join Hogwarts classes and the efforts made to ensure they felt comfortable and settled within the castle.

A ripple of applause spread through the hall following the headmaster's welcoming speech, and the stage was then handed over to Maverick, who was set to explain the details of the tournament.

And Maverick ensured his speech covered every important detail, now that all the schools and their headmasters were gathered in one place.

He began with a quick overview of the tournament structure, explaining how the games would be played and outlining how the winners of each round would move on to the next stage.

He repeated the details already shared with the Hogwarts students, stressing the schedule. The first round would feature six games, starting today, with one game held each day after that. He also mentioned that the next group stage would take place in February, with the finals scheduled for May.

Next, he talked about the changes made to the Quidditch stadium to accommodate a larger audience. It wouldn't just be students from the participating schools watching the games, but also members of the public, including parents, scouts, and government officials.

He reassured the crowd by highlighting the security arrangements. The British Ministry of Magic's law enforcement department had been involved to ensure everyone's safety during the tournament. Multiple Aurors, both visible and covert, would be stationed around the stands to maintain security, with the protection of the students being the top priority.

Maverick also addressed the safety of the spectators, especially regarding the risk of a Bludger flying into the stands. To prevent accidents, alchemical protective charms had been placed on each stand, acting as invisible barriers.

He then moved on to discuss the wider reach of the tournament. The games, he said, would be broadcast live across Europe, with Magic Vision donated to each of the participating schools so that students who couldn't be there could still watch in real time. Additionally, many major wizarding locations and public places would have Magic Vision sets installed, meaning that even the general public could watch from afar.

Maverick also mentioned the involvement of several newspapers, whose staff would be covering the event. The games would be reported on and featured in the headlines, ensuring widespread coverage.

He reminded everyone of the significance of the event, emphasizing once again that all of wizarding Europe, and possibly even beyond, would be watching. As a professor at Hogwarts and the chair overseeing the tournament, he appealed to all students—not just those from Hogwarts—to show discipline and good sportsmanship throughout the competition.

Finally, with a smile, Maverick informed everyone that the first game would take place that afternoon between Hogwarts and Beauxbatons. He wished everyone the best of luck, adding, "May the best team win."

After Maverick's detailed explanation, Dumbledore officially signaled the start of the grand feast. The Great Hall then brimmed with energy, more alive than ever, as students from all four schools—well, mostly those from Hogwarts—turned the welcome feast into a festive celebration.

After breakfast, the guest schools and their students were guided to their dormitories and taken on tours of the castle. With Hogwarts being as vast as it was, there was no issue accommodating everyone comfortably. And since it was the weekend, there were no classes, giving everyone the chance to enjoy a little before the games began.

As the appointed time for the opening ceremony approached, guests from the public began to arrive through the temporary Floo points set up for the occasion, located just outside the castle and near the stadium. Security personnel and staff were stationed at these points, ensuring the smooth flow of visitors and guiding them to their designated seats in the stands.

Most of the seats allocated to the public had been sold, though not all, which was understandable given that this was the first time an event like this was being held. However, the VIP section—designed for those who wanted to enjoy the games with added comfort and amenities—was fully booked, largely thanks to Maverick's effective marketing strategies.

By the time the ceremony was set to begin, the stadium was already alive with excitement, the air buzzing with anticipation. However, instead of heading straight to his seat in the VIP stand with the headmasters, Maverick decided to visit the Hogwarts players' dressing room first to check on the team's energy.

Before he even reached the door, he could hear Oliver Wood's booming voice echoing through the corridor, delivering a passionate speech to the team. Maverick paused for a moment, smiling at the sheer enthusiasm in the young captain's tone, and only entered after Wood's fiery pep talk concluded.

Inside, the team and their coach, Steven, turned their heads toward him. Maverick stepped in with a smile, giving the players an appreciative nod.

"How's everyone feeling? Nervous, or are you all set for today?" he asked with a light tone.

"Not nervous at all, Professor!" Slytherin's seeker, Marcus Flint, patted his chest confidently. "I'll catch the Snitch before their little sissy of a seeker even knows where it is!"

Wood stepped forward next with the confidence of a true captain. "We're ready, Professor. And I'll make sure no Quaffle gets past me today."

More students joined in, expressing their readiness, and finally, Coach Steven spoke with a steady and reassuring tone. "They're ready, and I believe the kids will surprise everyone today."

Maverick's smile widened as he looked at the Hogwarts team. He could feel their energy and determination radiating in the room. "I like the energy, everyone. Remember... teamwork is key. And above all, good luck. We're counting on you!"

With those words, he turned and left the dressing room, and headed straight to the VIP stands to join his colleagues.

The headmasters, special invitees, and nearly all the guests who had booked their seats were already settled when Maverick arrived. At the very front, he saw the three deans engaged in an animated conversation, clearly soaking in the excitement emanating from the crowd.

Next to them, in the same row, was the plump Minister of Magic he had met two years ago at Buckingham Palace, now chatting with another Ministry official Maverick didn't recognize.

As he walked past the seats, Maverick noticed the curious glances from the occupants. He recognized some of them—pure-blood lords from prominent British families. Others, dressed in various aristocratic styles, were likely foreign nobles whose children were participating in the tournament.

Maverick didn't ignore their gazes. Instead, he acknowledged each and everyone who met his eyes, and offered polite nods in return, before finally reaching his seat at the front next to Professor Dumbledore.

"The man of the hour finally graced us with his presence." As soon as he took his seat, he heard the alluring voice of the French Headmistress, who sat just beyond Dumbledore on the other side.

"This is one magnificent event you've arranged, Monsieur. I can't believe you managed to fill up the stadium for the very first game."

Maverick chuckled as he turned toward her. "This is the hard work of many people, Speaker. I can't take all the credit."

"And very modest…" she said with a playful smile. "Remember, my offer still stands."

The old Hogwarts Headmaster beside her twitched involuntarily at her words, but fortunately, Maverick's next words put him at ease.

"I'm perfectly happy here at Hogwarts," Maverick said, looking at the woman steadily as he met her gaze without flinching. "Though I do appreciate the offer."

Some of the occupants raised their brows—after all, he was speaking to an Arch-Magus. Most wouldn't have the confidence to look her in the eye, let alone respond so casually. They took note of this little detail, and whether they saw it as confidence or arrogance, Maverick neither knew nor cared.

"How much time until the opening ceremony begins, Professor?" Dumbledore asked, smoothly changing the subject.

"Any minute now," Maverick replied. "We've chosen an incredible talent from Hogwarts to narrate the competition, and Professor McGonagall should be with him now, getting ready to start."

It was true—rather than hiring a professional commentator, Maverick had decided to give the opportunity to a student. A third-year Gryffindor, Lee Jordan, had the perfect energy and talent for the role. Of course, he wouldn't be alone in it. Professor McGonagall would be there to supervise the boy and keep things in check.