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Photography Club
Author: Carys
Date: 09-19-18 18:17
Carys had never been more excited to be back at Hogwarts. She was there for Club Day, being the Photography Club sponsor along with Ginny Potter. This year was quite different from others because Tristan was a first year Gryffindor student. Carys had seen him off on the Hogwarts Express approximately three weeks ago. She hadn't been away from her boy for so long since their forced separation during the Pureblood Movement all those years ago. She missed him and couldn't wait to see him, kiss him, and hold him tight.
While she was at Hogwarts, Griff was at home watching Megan and enjoying some much needed Daddy-Daughter time. Meanwhile, Juliet was at the studio to be available to clients interested in the various photography packages or those who'd opted to pick up the finished products themselves. The business was doing well enough that Carys thought it might be time to hire an additional photographer.
She and Ginny had a display board at their table, along with pamphlets, photo albums and portfolios displaying their various work, and some cameras and related accessories. They even had a box of disposable cameras to give away to anyone who stopped by their table.
When Club Day officially started, Carys looked towards the double doors of the Great Hall and waited for her son to appear. She waited, and waited, and waited, and just when she wondered if she could go to Gryffindor Tower and fetch him, he showed up with his friend Tyler in tow. Carys waved to get their attention. Tristan offered her the smallest of smiles and gave a little half-wave back and then went to look at some of the other club tables.
When at last he came to the Photography Club table, Carys seized him and murmured, "I missed you so much!"
Tristan tried to extricate himself from his mother's arms. "Muuuuuuummmm. You're embarrassing me!"
Carys reluctantly let go. She asked the boys if they were interested in Photography Club. Tristan said no, while Tyler showed some interest but not enough to actually sign up. Carys was a bit disappointed, but she supposed by being co-sponsor of a Hogwarts club, she'd get to be near her son fairly often. She looked forward to it, even if Tristan was embarrassed to be seen in her company.
They talked for shorter than she would have liked. Tristan and Tyler wanted to look at a few more booths and then leave to do something else. Carys curbed the impulse to embrace Tristan again and instead said, "Write to me about which clubs you decided to join."
"Okay," Tristan said. "Say hi to Greg for me."
And he sauntered off with Tyler before Carys could correct him like she usually did.
If We Aren't Careful… (Alectrona)
Author: Harry Potter
Date: 09-20-18 18:33
Becky Langford and Alectrona Nintwinty-Flister walk into the Great Hall together. Despite Becky being in Hufflepuff and Alectrona in Ravenclaw the two first years have become good friends, good enough that three weeks into the school term they wish they were in the same house so they would be roommates and have every course together.
Once in the vast room Alectrona asks, "Where do you want to start?"
"I looked over the posted list of clubs and was thinking the Art Society sounds fun."
"Let's find that one then and while we look we can get see where other clubs are located."
Arm in arm the two set off, Alectrona making note of where the Drama Club table is located and keeping a look out for the Muggle Studies Club. Becky, noting that Charms Club is run by Professor Knight, thinks they should look into that club. Professor Knight is ever so nice looking and she thinks having to wait until fifth year to have him as a teacher is a crime. Nothing against Professor Flitwick that is. Of her current professors Flitwick is actually one of Becky's favorites.
"There's Art Society," Alectrona says.
They approach the table where Professor Quigley, whose name and face they know but don't have as a teacher, welcomes them. The upper years Astronomy professor tells them a little about Art Society and then answers a few questions, beaming at them when they both sign their names to a roster.
Looking at all the booths they passed before reaching the Art Society table Becky inquires, "Where next? I picked first."
"Muggle Studies Club."
As the daughter of a witch and a wizard who work in the Muggle Relations Department at the British Ministry of Magic and having grown up with parents who wear a wide range of Muggle fashions and who love to eat at Muggle restaurants two or three times a month, Alectrona thinks she should at least consider joining the Muggle Studies Club. She explains this to Becky as they retrace their route to where Professor Miller is speaking to another student. As with Professor Quigley, the two girls do not have the him for a class as they are not yet eligible for electives but by now they do know who he is.
They look over the information Professor Miller has on display and speak to an older student who is a member of the club. Alectrona has just given her name when Professor Miller, now free, turns and says, "Nintwinty-Flister? You're Hercubia's and Mortimus's daughter?"
"Yes, sir, I am."
"I first met your parents here at Hogwarts on a Career Day. Such interesting people."
As that sounds like a compliment Alectrona politely says, "Thank you."
Becky asks, "Is it true club meetings aren't here at Hogwarts?"
"In a sense, yes. Cloud's Kiss considered part of Hogwarts but is in a Muggle location. It's connected by Floo to Hogwarts. The location allows us to do some things that we can't do in a Wizarding location."
The older club member holds out a meeting and topics schedule. "Come to the first meeting and found out what some of those things are."
Alectrona smiles and accepts one of the schedules. "My parents would be disappointed if I don't join."
"Don't join to please your parents," Professor Miller tells her. "Join because you have a curiosity about Muggle life."
Alectrona's smile broadens into a grin. "I can't be the daughter of Mortimus and Hecubia without having a curiosity about Muggle life."
The two girls talk with the older student and Professor Miller a few more minutes, both signing up for Muggle Studies Club before moving on. As the walk away Alectrona comments, "If we aren't careful, we'll sign up for a club at every table we visit." Laughing, Becky agrees, pointing out where the Charms Club booth is located to go to next.
Alchemy Club
Author: Fritz Schnackenpfefferhausen
Date: 09-21-18 09:41
Unlike Alchemy class, which is only for sixth and seventh year students, Alchemy club is to anyone interested, from first year all the way up to seventh year. In the few years since Fritz has been teaching Alchemy and sponsoring the Alchemy club, he's noticed that the majority of sixth and seventh years in his classes don't tend to join the club as well. Fritz intentionally tries not to have much overlap between the classes and the club's activities so that the NEWT-level students don't get bored, but it's generally not enough to entice them to join the club. He's not too sorry about that, though.
Presently, first year Hufflepuff student Emmie Reade is standing at his table, looking over the material Fritz has presented there. He has one of last year's experiments going involving buoyancy. Several glass bottles filled with clear liquid and drifting colored orbs are on display. It's pretty to look at according to most girls. Emmie is particularly enchanted by one with pink orbs.
"Are there other pretty alchemy experiments?" Emmie asks.
"Sure," Fritz says. "This year, we will make crystals."
"Ooh," Emmie says. "What else?"
"We're going to make a rainbow out of liquids. The experiment is very similar to this one," Fritz says, pointing to the floating pink orbs Emmie likes so much.
Emmie declares, "I'm going to sign up."
She leaves with a schedule of meetings and topics to be discussed. In the lull that follows, Fritz thinks about how Otto is moving in soon. It will be great to have his cousin close by again. Fritz knows that Coco is excited, too. The only thing about Otto moving in is that he's never lived in the wizarding world before. He's been in real combat zones, though, so nothing should shock or scare him. He also knows what it's like to live off the grid, so he'll probably fit right in, even though he's a Muggle.
"Hi, Professor Schnackyfooferhouse," says Ilsa Ludlow.
Fritz smiles. Butchering his surname is par for the course, especially with younger students who don't have him for a teacher.
"Interested in Alchemy club?" he asks. When Ilsa nods, he tells her all about it.
(Magnus, Eileen & Elmer) Club Day
Author: Sophie McCourt
Date: 09-22-18 03:21
"Everything looks boring," Elmer lied.
He was not going to admit in front of Eileen that he was actually finding most of the clubs very appealing and interesting. However, he decided from the start he would keep sulking in front of his sister. She had once again entered the Ravenclaw Quidditch team as a keeper. Elmer was very jealous for he was not even allowed to try out. He had tried to give his name to Coach Krum, but the former Quidditch seeker did not accept it, telling Elmer he had no authorization from his father to tryout. Now he was lashing his anger on Eileen who was determined to find her brother an alternative for Quidditch.
"I am sure there is something here you will like. "
"How about Athletics Club?" Elmer smiled ready to visit the booth promoted by Coach Krum and a very tall and muscular student, whose identity was unknown to both siblings.
Eileen pulled him by his shirt. She didn't want Elmer to visit the booth for she knew he would be very excited only to realize that just like Quidditch this club was off limits to him.
"Hey!" He protested.
"Sorry but you know you should pick something more mental and less physical."
"I am not signing for stupid Book Group or Chess Club!" He declared, pouting. "All I wanted was to play Quidditch. My housemates play it all the time and that's all they talk about. I feel left out."
Eileen felt the need to embrace her brother. He looked very little on that moment as he made his confession. But she decided not to show her affectionate side or she was sure he would walk away without picking a club or group.
They spent a great deal of time at the Great Hall. They checked the school's newspaper booth. Magnus was there, helping to promote it. He had once again signed up for it. He had already written an article about the wounded students of the tryouts. Magnus had spent the tryouts' Saturday at the Hospital Wing, trying to interview the injured students. He was expelled by Madam Pomfrey when he honestly told a first year he did not think she would be able to keep her left leg and that it would surely be amputated. The girl was reduced to tears. Now he often saw her perfectly well at the Great Hall. As a Muggleborn he was totally ignorant about any sort magical medicine. It had been Ned once again who explained him that it was normal for a wizard or witch to have serious injuries during their lifetime but recover with ease thanks to magic. Ned himself had once turned purple because he drank one of his mother's beauty potions when he was a child. He was cured in no time after a trip to St. Mungos. Unfortunately Professor Hodffufer did not approve Magnus' article. He chose Akira Gudson's article instead. The third year Slytherin wrote about the actual tryouts, even making his predictions on the elected seven for each team. Magnus was a bit satisfied he did not get them all right.
"Hello Eileen! Interested in joining the Hogwarts Herald?"
"I am not much of an writer...and I signed up for the Baking Club," she told him. "But my brother Elmer might want to do so."
"No I don't!" The Gryffindor first year said. "I don't even read newspapers."
He walked away to check another booth.
"Difficult client, huh?" Magnus joked.
"He just wants what he cannot have. I swear his eyes glowed when he was checking the Alchemy Club booth but when I told him that was an option he decided not to sign up."
"What are you looking for is the Drama Club, " Magnus told her.
"What?"
"It will give him the chance to be someone else, even if for a few moments. I think he might like that, give pin what you told me about your brother."
Eileen smiled. It did make sense. Elmer would forget about his illness for a while if he would be focused on playing a role. Drama Club would keep him busy and it was considered a safe activity.
"Magnus you are a genius!" She told him, going after her Elmer. Magnus was quite flattered with the compliment.
At first Elmer resisted Eileen's idea of joining the Drama Club. He listened to Mr. Valentine talking about the club, its activities and past plays. Elmer couldn't even tell if he was a good actor or not. Mr. Valentine told him that it did not matter: there was a place for everyone in the club and acting skills could be trained and developed. Elmer told him he would think about it. He left the Great Hall with Eileen without signing up for any club. She was sad but did not pressure him. The two siblings split at the top of the stairs each one on their way to a different common room. Once he was sure Eileen was gone, Elmer went back to the Great Hall. He signed up for Drama Club, Alchemy Club and stubbornly to the Athletics Club. He noticed that this time Coach Krum did not stop him.
He left the Great Hall with a smile, happy with his choices and ready to share them with his friends.
Baking Club Booth (Amethyst & Joe)
Author: Phinfilius
Date: 09-22-18 10:33
Amethyst had considered coming to Club Day with one of her friends or even her cousin Joe but decided that because her friends were signing up for something she'd probably end up joining some clubs she isn't actually that interested. She is determined to join only those she's truly interested in and not because a friend is begging her to sign up so they can do the club together. Entering the Great Hall, her plan is to go around to every booth and see for herself what's what before signing up for anything. It's all well and good to see Hogwarts Harmonies or Debate Club on a list only to find out that they aren't exactly what they seem.
On her first round Amethyst stops at the Baking Club booth though she isn't much interested. She had thought she might skip that one on her go around but decided she should say hello to Aunt Phlagmelina. "Hi! Have you gotten lots of sign ups?"
"Hi, yes, we've had a number so far. This being a new club Briar and I are excited. Have you seen Dani?"
"Not yet but I haven't been here long."
Aunt Phlagmelina looks disappointed only to immediately brighten again. "I see her. She's just come in." She gives her attention back to her niece. "Here is a schedule of what we have planned for Baking Club. I, that is we, would love to have you."
Amethyst accepts the sheet saying, "I don't know what I'm signing up for yet. I am going to each booth before I decide anything."
"That's a good plan."
Amethyst takes a slice of the loaf like lemon drizzle cake that her aunt says club members will learn to make, thanks Phlagmelina and continues on her way, thinking that maybe joining Baking Club wouldn't be so bad.
Joe also stops by the Baking Club booth to effusively greet his aunt. "HI! I joined Athletics Club! I tried out for my house Quidditch team but didn't make it but I had fun!"
As a child who was so sick for awhile that the family wasn't sure he'd ever be a Hogwarts first year having Joe looking so healthy and so enthusiastic is heartwarming.
"I'm sorry you didn't make your team but happy you have a good time. What else have you joined besides Athletics Club?"
"Nothing yet. I can't decide. Oh, I want to sign up for this one."
"For my club? That's wonderful. I'd love having you."
Joe scribbles his name on one of the sign-up sheets, takes the information Phlagmelina gives him about the club and its meetings, and after telling her a little more about his first weeks at Hogwarts, he nods a hello at his cousin Dani then walks away happily munching on a raspberry bar and carrying a little cup of a cheesy noddle casserole that are both on the Baking Club's schedule. Unsure of where he wants to sign up next Joe heads for the Pet Society, thinking anything with animals sounds appealing.
Someone Famous
Author: Plum
Date: 09-22-18 14:12
Alex strolls over to the Band and Orchestra table where Dolly stands talking with Professor Flitwick. As the short statured professor also has the Hogwarts Harmonies table, the two are side-by-side and there are some students helping the lower years Charms professor. One of them addresses Alex, "Hi, are you interested in playing an instrument or singing?"
"I'm waiting for my friend," Alex replies with a nod to Dolly but then asks, "I don't have to already know how to play something?"
"It helps but no. Let me guess, you want to play drums?"
Alex laughs but then blushes a little admitting, "Flute."
"Really? I pegged you for drums or guitar."
"I know some on guitar and bass. My sister and brother-in-law are in a band."
Dolly, free now from her conversation with Professor Flitwick, interjects, "You might have heard of the band. Dynamic Duo."
"Seriously? I was going to wear my Dynamic Duo shirt today until I remembered I needed to dress for a shift here. I have Plum's autograph from my first year Club Day and joined Language Club because of her. I'm even helping out at her booth later. So she's your sister, huh? Bloody cool! Well, if you're wanting to learn flute, Professor Flitwick will help you out."
A few minutes later Dolly and Alex walk away, Dolly having joined Hogwarts Harmonies and Alex the Band/Orchestra. Having not visited the Language Club booth they go that direction, Dolly saying, "You know, you have a good voice. You should also join the Harmonies."
"I'll think about it. Did you sign up for Book Group?"
"Of course!"
While Dolly was checking out Book Group Alex had gone to look over the Astronomy Club so she asks, "Did you join?"
"Yeah, though I'm still not sure why," he chuckles.
Arriving at the Language Club table they wait for Plum to finish speaking with another first year, Ruth Lyman. As Ruth starts to walk away Plum sees Dolly and him and comes around the table. "HI! I've missed you!"
Alex allows Plum to give him a long hug though he's massively embarrassed. When Plum also hugs Dolly hello she tells me, "I'm so happy you two were sorted into the same house."
"Me too," they say at the same time.
"I got your owl. I'm sorry neither of you made the Quidditch team."
Alex shrugs. "I wish I had but it's okay. The only one new to the team got seeker. I tried out for chaser."
"I went for keeper," Dolly informs her.
Plum gives them each another quick hug. "Did you just come by to say hello or are you two interested in Language Club?"
"I have a head start on some languages thanks to you so I figured I'd join."
Dolly nods, "Me too."
Plum fixes them up with club information and booklets that are a primer to Gobbledigook. "Dolly, be sure to put your name in for a drawing for a LinguoCube." She doesn't tell Alex to because they have one.
As another student interested in Language Club walks up Plum tells Dolly and Alex, "Pick out a tart to take if you wish. Ariella and Pie In The Sky made them." The tarts come in a variety of flavors and each has an the words Language Club written in other languages as edible toppers.
Eating the scrumptious tarts has them thinking they should check out the Baking/Cooking Club. As they get near Ruth Lyman joins them. "Your mum is so pretty, Alex."
"Sister, not my mum."
"She's the Plum Beck who sings, right? I was shy to ask her."
"Right."
"Maybe she can get me Drake Bennett's autograph. He's sooooo cute. You're joining this one?" she asks as they reach the Baking/Cooking Club table.
"I am," Dolly says.
"Maybe. I wouldn't mind knowing how to cook a little. And if you want Drake's autograph, Ruth, I'm pretty sure I can get it for you. You know he's like a son to Professor Miller and Professor Sacheverelle?"
Ruth squeals. "He is? You can? Please do! He's my favorite."
Dolly, who has known members of Dynamic Duo much of her life as Alex's long time friend, at first can't understand Ruth's excitement but then it occurs to her that if she learned one of her classmates knew Darion Buttermaker of The Broomstick Boys she'd probably be acting as silly. Then another thought occurs to her. "Say, Ruth, do you like the band Dragon?"
"Who doesn't?"
"You know the bass player is Artie Weasley's dad?"
Ruth's eyes look as though they will pop out. "No!"
As the three are now standing at the Baking/Cooking Club table Briar Rose overhears this last part. She surprises them by saying, "My daughter Grace, she's fourth year in Ravenclaw, is Artie's cousin, which makes her that bass player's niece."
Ms. Hodfuffer joins the conversation. "Did anyone mention my nephew Phin is a member of Dynamic Duo?"
Phlagmaline Hodfuffer, Briar Rose, Dolly, and Alex can't help but snicker a little when Ruth bemoans the fact, "Everyone but me seems to know someone famous!"
(Titus) Demands & Requests
Author: Tiberius Nott
Date: 09-23-18 03:40
Titus was walking around the Great Hall, checking the several booths. As Head Boy he felt it was his duty to show up at Club Day, even if he wasn't sure he would sign up for anything. In the past he had been part of several clubs like Herbology, Language Club, Photography and Hogwarts Harmonies. The clubs had been a good pastime. They helped a great deal to mitigate his anger and they had contributed to reduce his feelings of solitude. Titus knew the importance the clubs could have in a student's life.
"Nott, glad I caught you! May I speak to you for a second?"
Titus nodded, as he moved to a corner of the Great Hall followed by sixth year Slytherin perfect, Stefan Carandolet.
"What can I do for you?"
"I was wondering if I could swap my corridor patrols' shifts next week. I would like to have some extra study time in the evenings, so I would gladly do the patrols on the weekend evenings instead."
Titus raised his eyebrow with suspicion. Stefan's excuse was weak. He tried to recall next week's patrol shifts that he had worked out with Arielle. Stefan had a shift with Cornington Marchbanks. On the weekend it was Finley Pride and Lilith Balfour that were on patrol in the evenings. It was clear Stefan would rather spend his time in the girls' company than with Cornington.
"No," Titus sentenced. "Unless you have a better excuse, then no swapping."
Stefan looked at him but he decided not to argue. He walked away quite unpleased. This wasn't the first time Titus had been approached by another prefect to swap shifts. Two days ago Sarafina Sutton, also a Slytherin, demanded not to be paired up with Anderson Acker from Gryffindor because she considered him very annoying. Tom Howard from Ravenclaw, had asked Titus not to patrol the dungeons for he was afraid to be ambushed there by Peeves like his father had been many years ago. He had consulted with Arielle and they agreed the best course of action was to be firm and deny all sort of silly requests. They knew they could not please everyone. Titus now felt bad when he too had made his own demands to past Head Boys Franciscus Vanderbilt and Hunter Green.
Yet he had not been totally impartial. When Patricia McCourt came to speak with him the Sunday after the Start of the Year feast, asking for not to be paired up with Caleb Quigley, he had accepted her request. Titus arranged things so she would not have any patrol shifts with Caleb. And for once in his life he was bold enough to actually pair Patricia with himself a few times. He was glad Arielle had not been suspicious about it. Anyway who would be? She was a McCourt sister, and the prettiest of them all. She was way out of his league. Yet after what happened at the Emrys Fest he decided he might have a shot. But she kept avoiding him, most likely out of shame, and he was finding it hard to catch her alone so they could discuss what happened.
He continued to check the booths sometimes shaking hands with former members. In the end Titus sign up for the Photography Club, allowing himself some extra curricular activity beyond his NEWTs preparation and his Head Boy's duties
(Azaelia) Book Group
Author: Isolde
Date: 09-23-18 08:35
Azaelia was quite glad that term had begun because she could throw herself back into work and spend less time thinking about her upended life. She'd thoroughly researched books to add to the Book Group's reading list for the school year and was quite pleased with her selections. There was something for everyone, including several sequels or series continuations for previously read popular titles. Azaelia very much looked forward to Book Group's first meeting on October 11th.
"My Mum is in a book club," said Julia Vernon, as she looked over some of the books on display at Azaelia's table. "She meets every month with a bunch of her friends. They eat a lot of snacks and drink a lot of wine."
Azaelia smiled. "We will be having lunch during our meetings. If you have any suggestions about what you might like to eat, or if you have any dietary restrictions, let me know… that is, if you are thinking about joining the club…?"
Julia signed her name on the sheet on the clipboard and said, "I'll eat anything, thanks."
Azaelia handed her a copy of the first book to be read, The Chocolate Frog Mystery. She also handed Julia and packaged chocolate frog to tie in the theme.
"Enjoy them both," she said.
Julia thanked her and wandered off to another table.
Nobody else came by in the next few minutes, so Azaelia did the inevitable: she thought about her mother.
Despite some reluctance, Azaelia had gone to visit her mother at her aunt's house about a week after learning Nimuë Bramble had gotten out of prison. That meeting had been awkward at best, but it had gone civilly, no doubt thanks to the presence of Aunt Iseult and Uncle Gorman.
Azaelia had gone back for a family dinner afterwards, which had included Isolde, Py, and baby Gio, but she'd not seen her mother since that night. Isolde went home to see her parents more often and always reported back to Azaelia after these visits. Azaelia's mother was still staying with her sister and brother-in-law, and it seemed like there was no end in sight.
Isolde seemed to think that her parents didn't mind, so Azaelia didn't feel too badly about her mother's intrusion. Better she stay with the Farnons than try to move in with her at Hogwarts!
Finally, another student approached the Book Group table. Azaelia put thoughts of her felon mother out of her mind and smiled at the newcomer. "Interested in joining the Book Group?"
At Club Day
Author: Sophie McCourt
Date: 09-23-18 08:52
Since she was not going to play Quidditch this year, Sophie decided to join a club. She recalled that in her first year she had been part of the Drama Club. She had also been an assiduous member of the Astronomy Club. This year she decided to continue to be part of the Astronomy Club and she also signed up for the Debate Club.
As she was leaving the Great Hall she met first year Cecily McCallister who was on her way in. Sophie greeted her with a smile. She had promised her brother Wren to keep an eye on her.
"Congratulations Cecily!" Sophie told her.
Cecily wasn't expecting Sophie to talk to her or even congratulate her.
"Thank you," she said in a low voice. It was the same shy voice she used with members of the Pole family. "I was not expecting it at all...Everyone at home got surprised as well."
Cecily had made the Gryffindor Quidditch team. She had try out only for fun, not having any particular ambition. She was caught in surprise to see her name on the announcement board of the Gryffindor common room. She had to ask Miranda to read the information out loud in order to be sure she was not dreaming. But Miranda read loud and clear: Cecily McCallister, beater, right after Gideon Weasley's name.
She recalled entering the pitch and doing the warm ups, using one of the school broomsticks. She had wanted to buy a broom of her own when she went to buy her school supplies at Diagon Alley, but she knew her family could not afford to buy her any of the latest broomsticks. Since she had signed up for beater part of her warmup had been using the bat to throw bludgers at a target. However the target was still. The challenge begun when she was called for the scrimmages. She was given a black vest. Her first attempts at the scrimmage had been null. She had not been able to hit any chaser, and she felt like she was flying in an erratic way, back and forth, without doing anything. Yet, after a while, it felt as if something had been unblocked inside her brain. She went after one of the bludgers, going around it. She saw exactly which white chaser she wanted to hit, aimed and used her bat to throw the bludger at him. It hit the chaser on the back. It wasn't a strong hit but the impact made the white chaser loose his speed, not able to follow his teammates, on the attack. Quickly the black team chasers recovered the quaffle. Cecily gained some altitude knowing that now her job was more defensive. She spotted a white team beater by the corner of her eye. The beater used her bat to push the bludger down the pitch, ready to cause some danger to the black chasers. Cecily was quick to deviate the bludger, and thanks to that the black team chasers were left alone to do their job.
On a second scrimmage things became easier: Cecily was now used to both the broom and the bat. Once again she was given a black vest. This time she got into the game fast, hitting one of the white chasers on her arm, making her drop the quaffle. The more she played the more she enjoyed it, especially the part where she avoided her team members from being injured. She felt like she was some sort of protector. Unfortunately as the seekers were battling for the snitch possession she had no other option but to neutralize the white seeker. She hit him on the forehead. It had not been a planned move but the opportunity was there and she didn't miss it. She was glad that in the end there had been no hard feelings between her and the seeker.
"I was wondering...do you have a broomstick?" Sophie asked.
"No. I am using one provided by the school."
"Well, if you like I can borrow you mine. I am not going to use it this year."
Cecily noticed the sadness on Sophie's voice. Sophie herself had brought her Supernova with her in the hopes Jasper would change his mind and she would be able to tryout. But such letter never came. She thought she was doing a good thing by lending her broomstick to Cecily. She had seen her family's modest living quarters at the Pole property and she had the feeling they probably could not buy a new broomstick with ease.
"Are you sure?" Cecily asked, aghast.
"Of course! It's not the latest model in the market but I have been happy with it. I hope you will be happy as well."
"Thank you so much, Miss McCourt!" She said, her heart beating fast with excitement. She was going to have a nice broom!
"Please, call me Sophie. And you're welcome. I am glad I could help," she gave Cecily one of her warm smiles.
They agreed to meet later so Sophie could deliver her Supernova to Cecily. Meanwhile the first year Gryffindor begun to explore the Great Hall. She tried to find Miranda so they could visit the booths together. Before she could find her she stopped at the Hogwarts Pet Society and signed up. She had a deep love for Threstals, but she also enjoyed other animals. To Cecily, at times, they could be better than people. She was still very shy but she felt she was getting out of her shell especially with Miranda. She made Cecily feel comfortable with her confidence and good mood.
Meanwhile Patricia was also at the Great Hall. She recalled how in the past she had signed up for school groups and clubs only to be closer to Caleb. She passed by the Gobstones' stand, not really knowing what she was thinking for wanting to play such disgusting game. It was as if she had been sleepwalking during her first years at Hogwarts, always living in Caleb's function. She would still be doing so if he had not break things up with her during St. Emrys Fest. Caleb had caught Patricia completely by surprise that night. After giving her some Fire Whisky he had brought with him, he told her he needed to focus on his NEWTs and he could not afford any distractions. She begged him not to end their relationship, promising she would not bother him when he was studying. She even offered to make him question cards and be of any assist, ready to jeopardize her own OWLs study. He refused. In a desperate plea she said she loved him and due to the whiskey she consumed and inspired by Sophie's situation she asked if they could secretly become engaged. Caleb just said he was sorry and he walked away. Patricia should have known better: when he suggested they should drink a bit he was just trying to soft things up for himself.
Patricia wasn't completely drunk but she felt a bit dizzy. Tears streamed down her face as Caleb left. She felt she was being abandoned. A witch with pink and purple hair noticed her crying and she started crying as well, saying she too became emotional when she heard the Dynamic Duo playing. Everyone was focused in the concert. Everyone but Titus Nott. He had been smoking as he watched the concert. But then he recognized Patricia from the school. She was Susan's friend. He approached her, and Patricia was sure he knew she was a bit drunk. Her first thought was that he was going to fetch Sophie. Instead he had put down his cigarette, and took her away from the crowd. He offered his handkerchief so she could dry her tears and bought her a hot dog at a food stand. Patricia reminded he had said something about drinking with an empty stomach. All she remember was talking a lot. She wasn't sure exactly what she said but she had the feeling she had open up with Titus. She recalled that after eating that she leaned against his chest. He smelled to cigarettes and ice-cream which she recalled thinking it was an odd but appealing combination. Then she must have fallen asleep because she remembered being seated under a tree, Sophie waking her up. In her hand she was still holding his handkerchief. It had been a very embarrassing moment for she did not recall what she had told Titus. And now she had some corridor patrol shifts scheduled with him. It was clear he wanted to speak to her.
Trying not to think about all that, Patricia continued her round around the booths. She signed up for Dance Club. Caleb didn't like to dance but she loved it and she was excited to finally give it a try. Professor Flitwick was so delighted to have a new element in the club that spotting Belinda he asked if she wanted to join alongside her sister.
Belinda said she would think about it, but she left, not wanting to join any of Flitwick's clubs. She had only one club in mind: the Dueling Club. She thought it would be good to expand her knowledge in Dueling. It would be a good skill for a Death Eater to have. Of course she was no Death Eater but she was thinking about the future.
"Have you spoken with Malden yet?" Hercules asked.
He had came with Belinda to visit Club Day. He was desperate to enter Malden's band, obviously ignorant about its real purpose. He wasn't confident enough to approach Malden so he asked Belinda if she could intervene in his name. They were on the Quidditch team together and were both part of the band.
"No. But you shouldn't raise your hopes to high, " she warned him.
"Why not? You can't sing or play an instrument and you're in the band. I can play the drums!"
"I am the songwriter."
"Anyone can be a songwriter," he argued. "Frederick Benwick told me he heard you rehearsing by the door before he was kicked out and you were not very good. You could use someone like me."
"That Benwick doesn't know what he is talking about," Belinda said.
Yet it was true they didn't play like a band yet. Malden was not very satisfied with their progress. He suggested music lessons, complementing Asher who was already taking them. Belinda knew some members were a bit frustrated because they wanted real Team Delta Echo meetings and not actual band practicing. However she understood the need for it and she accepted the exhausting rehearsals, that almost made her ears bleed.
Before Hercules could insist she spotted Sylvestor Trainor and pretended she needed to tell him something about Quidditch. He was a bit puzzled she had approached him but she told him just to pretend to be talking to her, to keep her from speaking with Hercules. He got along in the game quite well and in the end after thanking him she teased him saying he was a good actor and perhaps he should join the Drama Club.
Late To Club Day (Miranda)
Author: Majandra
Date: 09-23-18 10:10
"Hi Mum!"
"Miranda, how are you today? I was wondering if you were coming to Club Day."
"You were watching for me?"
"Not so much watching for you as just not noticing you at any nearby tables. The Great Hall is a big room but there aren't so many clubs that you'd be lost in the mix."
As she sees her mother practically every day, including having her for Potions on Mondays and Wednesday Miranda isn't sure why her mum would be so keen to notice whether she was at Club Day or not. Shrugging away the thought she instead asks, "Have a lot of new members?"
"Some, yes."
Miranda reaches for one of the quills. "And now you have another."
Majandra tries not to look overly enthused. Miranda and she have been at such odds since was clear to Miranda she could not start Hogwarts last year. To have her willingly join a group Majandra oversees makes her want to cry joyful tears. Miranda's next words makes her even happier.
"I'm going to join Drama Club too," Miranda says with a gesture to the next table over where Julian Valentine is talking to two students about the club in question.
Fighting an urge to jump up and down and clap her hands Majandra attempts nonchalance. "You'll enjoy it I'm sure. What other clubs have you joined or are thinking about?"
"Pet Society. Baking/Cooking. Not sure what else yet. I've hardly visited anything yet."
"Just don't overextend, okay, honey."
"Yes, Mum. Some I may go to one meeting just to see."
"A lot of students do that."
"There's not much time left so I'd better go see. You staying for supper?"
"Yes, and Daddy and Georgie are coming as well."
"Great! See you later."
Miranda literally skips over to the Drama Club table, says hello to Mr. Valentine, signs her name to one of the sheets on the table, takes the information he gives her, then with a goodbye she skips off to figure out what other clubs she might want to join. Watching her, Majandra realizes she never even asked what Miranda's been doing all day that she's only just now coming to Club Day.
Too Many Clubs, Not Enough Time (Artie)
Author: Charlie Weasley
Date: 09-23-18 14:23
Artie has made two circuits around the Great Hall, stopping at every club to get information and, when possible, speak to at least one other student already in each club. He'd started out with CJ DeMarco but with Artie being so slow they'd somewhat quickly parted ways.
As he approaches the Muggle Studies Club stand for a third time Artie wonders if he should have asked Schuyler's opinion on clubs, or that of the triplets. Reaching the club's table just as another student walks off Professor Miller turns to smile at Artie. "Back again? I hope that's a good sign."
"I want to sign up."
"Definitely a good sign then."
After Artie writes down his name Professor Miller gives him the a welcome type packet. "For our first meeting come to the Muggle Studies classroom. We'll go to Cloud's Kiss from there. If you're a little late, there will be instructions and most likely a house elf named Tulip or one named Bluebell will be on hand to direct you."
"Thanks, professor."
Two girls arrive about that time and as he's done what he wanted at the Muggle Studies Club table Artie doesn't linger. His next stop is the Hogwarts Pet Society. With Barley at home and a new cat Storm Artie, an animal love much like his father, thinks such a club might help to better care for both. He wishes Barley could come live at school but Ava would probably pitch a fit that he'd have two pets at school and she'd have none at home. That wouldn't even be true. Turns out when Artie was gifted his cat Storm and Schuyler got Rye, Ava got a kitten as well. The name she chose is sort of clever but only if you know she's the daughter of a dragonologist. Catalonia as in Catalonian Fireball and as in Catalonia as in cat. To think she's only seven. Artie wouldn't be surprised if Ava ends up in Ravenclaw like Seth.
After putting his name down for the Pet Society Artie isn't sure where to go next. Maybe to Aunt Briar's booth? He could learn to make some food that would let him make Mum and Dad a meal for a special occasion. Hmmm. Yes. He'll do that. And maybe Athletics Club after that. And then a fifth. Aunt Ginny's Photography maybe. He isn't sure he can do five clubs or if he could do more than that.
Once he chooses a fifth he'll go sit down and figure out when the meetings are, and hope what he's signed up for so far aren't all at the same time and day. If there are spots to fit something else in he'll. There are just so many he'd like to be part of!
Sighing over too many clubs and not enough time, wishing he could cut out a few classes to make more time for clubs, Artie heads for the Baking/Cooking Club table and Aunt Briar, hoping there are still some yummy goodies to eat.
Hypoallergenic (Indigo)
Author: Travis
Date: 09-23-18 18:40
Jolyon and Indigo feel they've had a good day. They've had a number of students new to the Hogwarts Pet Society sign up, some who joined before but left for various reason return, and a good number from last year confirm their return as members this school year. Though Club Day 2012 is nearing an end there is still time for latecomers plus students are welcome to join the club any time throughout the term.
In addition to recruiting new club members Indi has also seen to one cat with the sniffles, an owl with a broken wing, and a rat with a crook in his tail that hadn't been there yesterday according to the rat's concerned boy. He doesn't mind and rarely charges when he's at something like this and a student has an animal in need.
A student approaches and since Jolyon has taken a quick break Indi is the one to greet the newcomer. "Hi, interested in the Pet Society?"
"I think so. Is it just about pets?"
"Animals that are the usual pets are the main topics but we do cover some that you might not think of as a pet, such as Abraxans and pigs."
"Pigs are pets. Oh, you mean those little ones."
"Surprisingly, there are regular sized pigs who are pets. Do you have any pets?"
"Are fish pets?"
"If you care about them, even love them, then I'd say yes."
"We have some fish at home. Dad, my two sisters and I want a cat but Mum says she's allergic."
"Not to create trouble at home but there are some that are non-allergenic."
"There are?"
"The term used is hypoallergenic. Breeds include the Cornish Rex, the Devon Rex, Oriental Shorthair, Sphyx, Balinese, Siberian, Bengal, Russian Blue, Burmese, Colorpoint Shorthair, Ocicat, Siamese, Javanese, Korat," Indi ticks off, trying to think of any others off the top of his head that might fit.
"That's a lot."
"There are a number of them. Now, one thing to know is that no cat is 100% hypoallergenic and just because one person doesn't react much to one cat doesn't mean someone else might not react badly to the very same cat."
"So we shouldn't get one of those?"
"It means before your family makes a decision your mother should spend a little time with one of those breeds to determine if she's sensitive or not."
"Would you write all that down for me?"
"Yes, certainly. When you write your parents, it's all right to give my name as being where you got the information. They are welcome to come talk to me if your mother is willing to consider the family having a cat."
Indi jots down what he's said while the potential new club member looks over the Hogwarts Pet Society's information. By the time Indigo's finished there is another name on the member list and another name has been added to the box set up for a drawing of five names to win an assortment of prizes from MacFusty's such as a cat tree and a free spay or neuter.
The student clutches both the club information and what Indi wrote down to her chest, walking off with a smile just as Jolyon returns. Jolyon nods towards the smiling girl. "Success?"
"Yes, though I may have opened a can of worms," he laughs, explaining to Jolyon what just took place.