The buzz of students' chatter filled the Great Hall in Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The new year had barely begun and already there was much talk amongst the students. First years sat at their tables, just barely come from the ordeal of the Sorting Hat. All the rest took this time to attempt to catch up with their friends, some of whom they hadn't seen for an entire summer.

But when Headmaster Albus Dumbledore began to speak, all was silent immediately. He didn't smile, although he loved how the students became instantly silent whenever he stood up. He held up his hands and began his speech.

"Welcome, students, to another year at Hogwarts!" Cheers filled the room, then silence again.

"We now come to the part of the evening where I shall inform you of the goings on this year," he continued, not lowering his hands. "First and foremost, congratulations to the new first years for a wonderful sorting!" Cheers, again.

"Secondly, a reminder that classes shall begin tomorrow, so be prepared, and don't be late!" He looked across the room, noticing several students in particular to whom this applied.

"And finally, this year, in addition to the prestigious House and Quidditch cups, we shall also be hosting a House Tournament!" Silence. Students glanced at each other, possibly pondering what he meant by that.

"This tournament has never been hosted before, so it is a trial run," Dumbledore continued. "We have had much success in the past with the Tri-Wizard Tournament, but why not have our very own House Tournament?" He glanced over at the other professors, who nodded in agreement.

"This tournament shall feature several major tasks, as well as various smaller tasks that will test knowledge, skill, and the ability to think quickly. One small team from each house will be selected, two weeks from tonight, on September the 14th." Dumbledore paused for a moment, catching his breath. He always ran out of breath during these exciting speeches.

"Each team shall have fifteen members: One first year, one second year, two third years, two fourth years, three fifth years, three sixth years, and three seventh years. In addition, one seventh year from each house shall be the Captain of the team, and shall represent the House in all of the tasks. Each task, of course, shall require different amounts of members to participate."

"Each task shall earn the House points. At the end of the year, the winner of the Tournament shall be announced, prior to the awarding of the House Cup. The Tournament will not earn points toward the House Cup, but preparation for each of the tasks might," Dumbledore continued. "And remember, professors will still require the same amount of effort put into each class, so do not fall behind if you are chosen!"

"All those wishing to participate in the Tournament must put their names into the Cauldron of Flames, which I designed to be similar to the Goblet of Fire, but very different, as it were. If selected, you are bound to the Tournament. Names may be placed in the Cauldron starting next week."

"Now - off to your common rooms! Good-night!" Dumbledore concluded. As the students finished their meals and went off to their common rooms, he wiped his forehead, relieved that the speech was over. He wasn't getting any better at these, was he?