Chapter 163: 'House Elves Strike”

Chapter 163: “House Elves Strike”

After Halloween, the weather took a turn for the worse.

A relentless, chilling wind battered Hogwarts Castle, making every journey from the castle to the greenhouse for Herbology classes a shivering ordeal for the students.

They bundled themselves up in thick woolen sweaters beneath their robes to ward off the biting cold.

One mid-November morning, as Matthew made his way to the Great Hall as usual, he was met with an unusual sight.

The Great Hall was in chaos, packed with students, and the four long tables were almost filled to capacity.

The students were buzzing with conversation and arguments.

Whats going on? Matthew looked around in bewilderment.

He walked over to the Slytherin table, where he realized that the golden plates were empty, unlike the usual spread of food.

Clearly, this was the cause of the commotion, and many students were discussing it.

Whats happening Draco complained loudly. Its already past seven-thirty, and breakfast hasnt started. We cant attend classes on empty stomachs, can we?

Why hasnt the staff come to prepare our plates? Theodore voiced his dissatisfaction.

Food cant just appear out of thin air That would violate Gamps Law of Elemental Transfiguration, Prefect Gemma corrected him. Our usual meals are prepared by the House-elves.

In the Hogwarts kitchen, there are nearly a hundred house-elves. There are more house-elves here than in any other house in the UK, she added. They prepare three meals a day and sometimes clean up at night or tend to the fires

But why is it like this today? Theodore asked, perplexed. Where are the House-elves?

The three of them arrived at the door of Professor Slughorns office together and, upon entering, found that many Slug Club members had already gathered there.

Welcome, my dear students, Professor Slughorn greeted them warmly. This is the first time such an incident has occurred during my tenure at Hogwarts. Fortunately, my office is well-stocked with fresh food. It should satisfy your appetites.

With that, he passed a basket of bread rolls to Matthew and his companions.

Thank you! The three of them expressed their gratitude.

Neville, still chewing his food, eagerly devoured a bread roll.

He was clearly quite hungry.

Matthew wasnt in a hurry to eat and asked with concern, Professor Slughorn, what happened? I heard it might be due to Pippi Ghost causing chaos in the kitchen. Could you clarify?

Pippi? Oh, no, thats highly unlikely, Professor Slughorn quickly dismissed the notion. It wouldnt dare. The real reason is likely that the House-elves in the kitchen are on strike.

On strike? Neville spoke with his mouth still full. I find that hard to believe. House-elves are the most loyal creatures. They take pride in their work and are embarrassed to be free.

I dont know, Slughorn sighed. But Mr. Longbottom, thats what appears to have transpired.

How long will this strike last? Hermione inquired with a worried expression.

I certainly hope it will end soon. Professor Rosier is currently considering a solution, Professor Slughorn replied. But if the House-elves are unwilling to return to work, Hogwarts will need to make other arrangements. Please dont worry too much.

As he spoke, Professor Slughorn brought out plates of sausages, bacon, and a large glass of milk.

It was quite a hearty breakfast.

The taste is actually quite good! Neville remarked with a mouthful. You should all eat more!New novel chapters are published on