The Weasley brothers' plan had begun, Hermione had started studying how to knit hats, and Su Er, with nothing to do, left the Gryffindor Common Room for the Hogwarts Kitchens.
Although he was still in animal form, humans and animals alike received excellent hospitality in the Hogwarts Kitchens, and Kleis soon recognized the young master he had acknowledged.
At Su Er's signal, Kleis led him somewhere with no one else around.
"What can Kleis do for you, Your Highness?"
"No need to be so formal, Kleis. I'd like your help with something," Su Er said softly, returning to human form.
"Kleis will carry out any order you give!"
Su Er then told Kleis about Hermione's plans and what she might do in the near future, as well as his hope that the house-elves could show less aversion to her.
Kleis was somewhat troubled. He did not mind this himself. After all, his family had given themselves entirely to Lady Hufflepuff and would swear the same allegiance to her heir. This went beyond a contract; it was woven into their souls.
The difficulty was that the other house-elves might not feel the same. What Hermione was doing and planning made her extremely unpopular among the house-elves.
"This might be putting you in a difficult position, but I don't want Hermione to be disappointed. So I can only ask you to do your best to persuade the others for me. Could you?" Su Er easily realized what was troubling Kleis.
"Even if it's only for appearances, just consider it a gesture of goodwill from Hermione. How about that? A Christmas gift of a hat, not given by your master."
Kleis frantically waved his hands in trepidation.
"I'll do it. Please, you mustn't speak like that."
"Then sorry for the trouble."
Having settled