#20 - Looking For A Clue

Spotting MJ enter, a house elf hurried over to assist. Having tended to another student only moments ago, they were quite attentive and wondered if perhaps something was going on that drew them here at such a pre-lunch time.

'Hello,' said the elf. 'I is Narby. Is you needing anything. I is happy to help.' She gave MJ a bright smile, though her wide eyes strayed to a stack of pots nearby -- she frowned slightly at the elf seated atop it.

The elf was oblivious to being watched, simply enjoying a sandwich. It was clearly different to the others, dressed in a rather nice little suit -- complete with bunny slippers, and a wooly hat. The other elves didn't seem particularly fond of the elf, but wore the looks one might give someone who was there to chill rather than assist with the tasks at hand.

Narby sighed, as if it was all quite scandalous or a pity to even acknowledge the other elf.

'That is Trikee,' she said, eyeing the perfectly content elf atop the pots. 'He is strange, miss. For Trikee is a free elf. He is moving to Hogwarts with Professor Fairburn.'

Eager to be done with that topic, Narby hurried to prepare a complete fruit salad for MJ as if that's what she'd meant by something quick and easy. 

She returned, holding the bowl up like something made of gold. Narby wasn't sure if MJ wanted something for on the go, and her expression faltered in realisation that perhaps she hadn't intended to eat it here and thus the elf had gotten it all wrong.

'Is you wanting something else?' Narby squeaked, nervous that she'd made a mistake.

Trikee slid down the pots, which miraculously didn't budge. He tumbled onto the floor, unharmed and amused by his apparent lack of grace. He beamed at MJ, waving eagerly, then wandered nearby to search a drawer full of spoons -- only interested in the oddly-shaped or unusual ones.

Narby was a bit flustered by the politeness, especially MJ's consideration for her work, but nodded in allowance to sit and eat her fruit salad. The elf was just so happy MJ liked it, and she hadn't made a mistake in making something less transportable.

Trikee came over to sit with MJ (well, atop the table rather than beside her). He had several spoons in front of him, for whatever uncertain purpose or value they held. He then got out a piece of old parchment, laying it in front of him and just out of her reach -- as far as MJ could see, as it was quite faded, it appeared to be a coded map of... somewhere. Trikee didn't appear to be solving it, just admiring the handiwork.

At the mention of Mitsy, Narby's eyes widened though Trikee didn't react at all. Several elves nearby paused their tasks, staring at MJ then hurrying away as if they didn't want to be associated with that conversation or request.

Narby struggled to speak. 'I is not... Miss, I is not sure you is meant to be knowing that.'

She was conflicted, wringing her hands together, wishing she had something to do with them Were they allowed to talk about it? She didn't know. What if it was breaking the rules or putting a student at risk? Oh, no they couldn't do that.

MJ would have to work on her persuasive skills if she wanted to proceed.

She was granted a moment to think about it, as lunch got started -- house elves rushed about preparing and sending the food up. MJ lost track of time then, as they were busy washing everything afterwards. Was lunch still going or had it finished? Who knew, but the house elves never slowed down.

Trikee was delighted to be offered some fruit salad, and picked the wonkiest of spoons to use. He was very careful, hand underneath in case he dropped the piece of pineapple. He gave MJ a bright smile, though was yet to say a single word to anyone.

He instead gestured his gratitude with his free hand.

Meanwhile, Narby's determination not to say anything began to waver. She glanced at other elves nearby, but they gave no confirmation of what to do. She frowned, nervously playing with her hands, still unsure if it was worth the risk or if MJ really could help.

'Is you sure, Miss?' she whispered. 'You is thinking she needs help, and that Hogwarts is saying you is meant to? You is really wanting to help her?'

Trikee frowned at them, curious what they were talking about. He gave MJ a searching look, spoon raised -- hoping he was allowed to snag another piece of fruit.

Trikee grinned at MJ, carefully spooning up the fruit she'd saved for him. His eyes were so wide and honest, as he made another gesture of gratitude with his hand.

Narby was horrified by the mere thought of punishing a student, let alone one as lovely as MJ. She shook her head, hands over her flappy ears. She could barely speak for a moment, then tried to process the rest of what MJ had said.

She nodded at MJ's kindness and a determination to help. Though still unsure, she believed MJ was telling the truth and might actually be able to help. Narby glanced at the other elves nearby, then crawled onto the table, giving Trikee an exasperated look, then leaned closer to MJ as if that made their conversation a bit more private. 

'I is hearing Mitsy is trying to help Professor Dumbledore with something,' Narby said quietly, eyes teary with concern. 'She is in the Dungeons, and cries of a terrible wailing. She is refusing to leave until her task is done, yet is too scared to go further. You is needing to find her, please.' 

Narby shuddered, hugging herself at the thought of poor Mitsy alone in the dungeons, so scared and yet unable to leave. Trikee set aside his spoon, watching them with confusion -- why were they so serious or upset? Unsure how to help, he offered them each one of his spoons.