After the tragic death of Sirius Black, his house-elf, Kreacher, experiences a significant shift in ownership and duties, fundamentally altering his immediate future. Kreacher, along with all of Sirius's other belongings, was bequeathed to his godson, Harry Potter.
New Ownership and Relocation
Upon inheriting Kreacher, Harry Potter found himself with a house-elf whose loyalty and disposition were, at best, uncertain given Kreacher's past actions and negative history with Sirius. Harry himself had no desire to keep Kreacher or have him serve in his personal capacity.
Understanding the complexities of the situation and the need for a solution that ensured both Kreacher's welfare and his inability to cause further mischief, Albus Dumbledore suggested a new role for the old house-elf.
Key Changes for Kreacher:
- Change of Master: From Sirius Black to Harry Potter.
- New Role: Harry, acting on Dumbledore's advice, ordered Kreacher to work in the kitchens at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
- Supervision: This assignment placed Kreacher among the other house-elves employed at Hogwarts. This arrangement allowed Dumbledore and the other house-elves to keep a close watch on him, minimizing the risk of him undermining the Order of the Phoenix or acting against Harry's interests.
Kreacher's Subsequent Life at Hogwarts
At Hogwarts, Kreacher became one of the many house-elves dedicated to the upkeep of the castle and the preparation of food for its students and staff. While initially resentful and still prone to muttering criticisms of his new master and his friends, this new environment and consistent work began a slow, gradual transformation in Kreacher's character. He eventually came to accept Harry as his master, and his loyalty shifted, particularly as he witnessed Harry's unwavering commitment to fighting against the forces of Lord Voldemort, which he associated with the pure-blood ideals he revered.
This transition from a tormented, neglected servant to an active, if begrudging, member of the Hogwarts kitchen staff marked a pivotal moment in Kreacher's long life, setting the stage for his eventual, newfound loyalty and service to Harry and his cause.
