Clubs! -Harry Potter Hogwarts Mystery

The 3 Clubs

Sarah found Penny in the Great Hall during a study hall session, a large book open on the table in front of her.

"Hi, Sarah," she said once Sarah sat down opposite her. "Are you here to study or to hear McGonagall's surprise announcement?"

"I didn't know there was going to be a surprise announcement," she said, smiling at Penny in disbelief. "You are the only person who would know about a surprise announcement ahead of time."

Penny rolled her eyes. "Oh, please. You are the only one at Hogwarts who would not  know about a surprise announcement. It's all anyone's been talking about. Why do you think there's so many people at study hall today?"

"Revising hard for their upcoming exams?" she said, earning her a scoff. Penny was right, of course. Study hall was unusually crowded. She spotted most of her friends seated at different tables, noting that many of them hadn't bothered to get out their books. Andre, who had decided that becoming a professional quidditch player was more worth pursuing than studying, was seated next to Tulip, whom also hadn't been studying much lately. Over at the Slytherin table, Barnaby sat with Liz Tuttle. The two were chatting amiably.

The chatter in the room died as McGonagall stood at the podium and cleared her throat. "Before study hall begins, I have an announcement to make. I am delighted to announce that three new academic clubs have been instituted for exceptional students. These clubs will give like minded students the opportunity to meet and learn together, regardless of year or house.

"The three clubs include the Sphinx, the Dragon, and the Hippogriff club. Students who show exceptional skill in Charms, History of Magic, Transfiguration, and Astronomy will be admitted to the Sphinx club. Those gifted in Flying, Quidditch, Defense Against the Dark Arts, and Dueling will be accepted into the Dragon club. And those proficient in Potions, Divination, Care of Magical Creatures, and Herbology will be welcomed by the Hippogriff club."

There was a wave of chatter as students asked each other what club they would go for. McGonagall held up her hand for silence.

"Now, one must show exceptional skill in these areas to merit an invitation. A select few students may be invited to join more than one club if they are particularly hardworking and dedicated. Invitations will go out tomorrow for founding members, but do not be upset if you do not receive one immediately. You always have the chance to demonstrate to your teachers and club leaders that you have the required skills. Bear that in mind as you begin your studies."

She stepped away from the podium and began her patrol around the room, scolding students who weren't studying. Everyone began the ritual of holding their books out and pretending to read while talking to each other in hushed voices.

"That sounds brilliant, doesn't it?" whispered Penny. "It would be great to get advice on my potioneering from people I don't usually speak to."

"It does sound interesting," said Sarah. "So you're going for Hippogriff then?"

Penny frowned slightly. "Well, it sounds as if you have to be asked to join, rather than asking to join yourself. Potions and Herbology are my best subjects, but I haven't been doing as well ever since Beatrice..."

"I'm getting really close, Penny," said Sarah. She knew it was difficult for Penny to focus on her schoolwork because she was so worried about her sister being trapped. "I know who has the missing vault portrait we need, and I'm close to getting it. Beatrice will be outta that portrait soon."

Penny smiled. "I know she will. I have complete confidence in you. But I still worry about her being alone and scared. It's put me really behind. If the Hippogriff club asks me to join, I'll definitely accept. I could use all the help I can get."

They were silent for a moment. Sarah became distracted. Barnaby and Liz were talking more animatedly than ever. She couldn't help but smile when McGonagall strode over and separated them.

"What club would you want to be invited to?" Penny asked.

"Hmm? Oh, I don't know," said Sarah thoughtfully. "My best subject is probably Care of Magical Creatures, so maybe that. But, I'm also pretty good at Transfiguration, so maybe Sphinx. Then again, I'm decent at Quidditch..."

"Better than decent," said Barnaby, plopping down next to her. Sarah glanced over at Liz to see how she'd react to Barnaby's new choice of seating arrangement. Liz looked very annoyed indeed. Sarah felt slightly guilty for enjoying the look on her face.

"You're the best flyer in the year," he continued. "I don't care what they all say about Skye Parkin, and I don't care what Andre says about himself."

Sarah grinned. "Don't forget about you." She glanced around and lowered her voice. "You're the best beater Hogwarts has ever had." She glanced around again, double-checking that Erika Rath wasn't anywhere by. They may have patched things up and become friends, but Sarah was still afraid Rath might give her a beating if she admitted Barnaby was a better player.

Barnaby was smiling. "Well, thank you. You two deciding what clubs you're going for?"

"I'd like to be in the Hippogriff club, if they'll have me," said Penny.

"Of course they will," said Barnaby. "You're about the only one that makes Potion-making make any sense. If you can help me understand it, you can do anything."

Penny brightened. "Well, maybe we'll be clubmates. That's the club for Care of Magical Creatures, too."

Barnaby waved her away. "Nah, those clubs are for exceptional students. I'm below average at best."

"No, you're not!" said Sarah forcefully. She hated when Barnaby talked about himself this way. "You are amazing with creatures, you're an amazing dueler and quidditch player, and you're great at Charmwork. Any of the clubs would be lucky to have you."

Before Barnaby could respond, McGonagall's voice sounded behind them. "Mr. Lee, I will not be dedicating my time to following you around the Great Hall and preventing you from distracting the female students. Either get out your books and study silently or leave at once."

Barnaby grinned up at her. "Alright, Professor. I'm sorry." He stood up and winked at the others. "I'll see you lot later."

Sarah thought about asking him to stay and study, but then realized he didn't even have his bag with him. He left, and Sarah and Penny studied quietly as McGonagall continued to hover over them with narrowed eyes.