At that evening's feast...
Not only was the hot pot delicious, but there were dishes from all over the world, and quite a few people began to develop a love for Chinese cuisine.
The welcome feast lasted over an hour, and practically everyone ate until they could barely stand.
Seeing that everyone was about done, Dumbledore waved a hand to clear the long tables, then went up to the podium.
The owl-shaped lectern, its wings folded, immediately spread them with a whoosh.
Dumbledore smiled at the cheerful faces turned up toward him.
"The moment has finally arrived. The Five-Wizard Tournament is about to begin. Bring in the box, and indulge this old man in a few more words of necessary rambling.
"First, allow me to formally introduce the headmasters of the four visiting magical schools: Durmstrang's headmaster, Karkaroff... Niekosov.
"Oh! And we have two important guests.
"This is Cornelius Fudge, our Minister for Magic here in England, and this is Mr. Ludo Bagman, Head of the Department of Magical Games and Sports.
"The six of them, along with myself, will form the tournament's Judges' Panel."
As each name was read out, scattered applause sounded throughout the Great Hall, mostly from students applauding their own headmasters.
The applause welcoming Fudge and Bagman was naturally the loudest. They were on home ground, after all.
Speaking of Bagman, he certainly knew how to play his cards right. Otherwise, how could he have held on to his position as Head of the Department of Magical Games and Sports after the reckoning at the Public Trial Assembly? After all, he did not have a son like Cedric.
Dumbledore raised a hand for silence and continued once the young wizards had quieted down.
"Mr. Filch, please bring the box up."
Filch, who had scarcely made his