Wizard Chess Club

Taking a flyer for the Hogwarts Wizard's Chess Society, you see that they meet Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Professor Flitwick gives you a knowing smile, and you return to your room to get ready for the rest of the day.

The week progresses without incident until the first meeting of the Wizard Chess club, you walk into the class room on the third floor, to find a small group of students gathered. The desks have been arranged to allow the boards to be placed out. The room is lit by sunlight filtering in from the courtyard outside and a single chandelier in the middle of the room. You have never been in this classroom before, but it seems to be for a practical class. Instead of single desks the desks are long tables. The floor is scuffed and scraped, as if these tables are moved regularly. The tapestries along the wall depict ancient battlefields, and wizards challenging legendary foes.

Looking around you see many first years with their own chess pieces clutched in their hands. You didn't think to pack up the Gaunt family chess set, not that you particularly got along with the pieces. You see people slowly pairing up, and wonder if you need to get a partner. Looking around there are not many people free and as you move forward you see the second years giving you a wide berth. Looking around you realize that you might not be partnered up, and have to sit around for the entire club meeting.

"Marvolo! I am so glad you could join us!" you hear a familiar voice squeak. Turning you see Professor Flitwick's diminutive form walking towards you, beaming. "Who will be your first opponent be?" Rupert Headsworth the tall brown eyed freckled Ravenclaw, and seeming head of the club, steps over to Professor Flitwick and whispers "Everyone seems to have a partner Professor."

Flitwick turns to Rupert, "Now really, what way is that to greet a first year student?"

"It just so happens that Mr. Gaunt doesn't have anyone to be his opponent, its unavoidable." Rupert said, a hint of smugness in his tone. "The boy'll have to come back next week."

Professor Flitwick doesn't miss the tone. "Perhaps, Rupert, if Mr. Gaunt needs an opponent the Head of the Chess Society should accommodate him." The small professor's tone is ice, and his narrowed eyes make it clear that it is anything but a suggestion.

"Professor, with all due respect, I am not sure that it would be a good match for a beginner." said Rupert stiffly

"Perhaps not, but if there are no other students available, then it falls to you. Besides, I think you may be surprised by Marvolo's aptitude." Flitwick says hotly.

You pretend not to hear any of this, but find yourself getting very nervous. You had played Wizard's Chess a few times with Kingsley and Dawlish, and even that grumpy painting in the mop closet in the shack, but never all that seriously. You were pretty sure that Kingsley lost on purpose, and the painting always won.

"Fine, Marvolo table three" grumbled Rupert acceding to the intense gaze of the tiny professor.

You move towards the table, a lump in your throat. You're black; Rupert is White. As you begin to set up pieces you see them startle to heckle you in silent pantomime. Great.

"Marvolo," Flitwick whispers from your elbow, "Sometimes you play the game, and sometimes you play the Opponent."

You look at him with a start, but he is already walking away. Kingsley used to say that to you every time he outmaneuvered you. You go to call out to Professor Flitwick, when you hear Rupert talking to you.

"So are we gonna do this rookie?" He asks dismissively.

You feel your pride well up within you, normally you tried to keep a level head, but something about Rupert just made you mad.