Ch. 921A Helping Hand
Hermione tried to find help for Winky, whose grief over Mr. Crouch’s death had left her emotionally shattered, while Harry and Ron learned more about Albert’s kindness toward house-elves. Moody warned Hermione that using Obliviate could permanently damage Winky, then considered consulting Albert about his Divination; meanwhile, Barty Crouch Jr. became wary that Albert might expose him.
- Hermione brought Harry and Ron to the kitchens to visit Winky and explain that she hoped Albert might take her in.
- Dobby said Winky had been drinking and breaking down since Mr. Crouch died, and that Albert had given him Calming Draught and Draught of Living Death to help her.
- Winky refused Hermione’s offer to ask Albert to employ her, insisting she would never betray her master; Harry frightened the house-elves by mentioning Voldemort.
- Moody warned Hermione that a powerful Obliviate could permanently damage Winky’s brain and advised Harry to prepare better for the second task.
- Moody considered asking Dumbledore to seek Albert’s Divination, while Barty Crouch Jr. privately resolved to be more vigilant about Albert.