Diary of a First Year – Part 7

September 14, afternoon

Dear Diary,

While Cameron may only care about Quidditch, Eloise and I were eager to explore what else might be out there to do in our free time. Sitting around in the common room or the library doing homework can get old after a while. So today, we went to check out some of the other clubs.

We steered clear of the Junior Dark Arts Defense League; they looked way too intense for a couple of first years. We also didn’t spend much time around the Alchemy Club, though I may look into that when I know some more about magic. We watched a sample Gobstones match, which was fun. Eloise says she plays with her dad all the time, but she didn’t want to get too competitive about it. Charms Club seemed exciting and I’ve loved Charms so far, so we got a schedule of their meetings and we’ll go check those out.

But by far, my favorite was Chess Club. Wizard chess is fascinating. The pieces are alive, and you simply direct them where to go. It’s a bit brutal when they smash each other off the board, but there is so much strategy to learn. Some of the players told me that you form a relationship with your set and that that becomes a part of your strategy. It can also make it difficult, I’d think, because you’d be attached and wouldn’t want to sacrifice any of your pieces. I think I’ll ask Mum and Dad for a set for my birthday this year so I can try playing. I’m sure Mum would practice with me over the holidays.

The Potioneers Society drew Eloise’s attention, and I really think she should join. She has a knack for magical plants and potions, and she’s already taught me a thing or two in class that made brewing easier. There’s so much to do and learn and not just in classes.

– Maisie