The Fealty of Draco Malfoy

An owl flew towards shell cottage. Tapping softly on the window it waited patiently for someone to open the window. Fleur Delacour opened it and let the owl land in her beautiful kitchen.

“‘Arry!” She called seeing the name on the letter. Harry Potter trudged into the kitchen and took the letter.

She is in the Malfoy Manor. She is safe for now. He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named will return soon to the Manor and will likely kill her or worse.

You need her. Have your house elf come to the west study on the second floor.

I could tell you it's not a trap but I know that would only make it seem like it is one. Treat it like it is. Wards in the Manor will be open to the house elf you send.

“Who sent this?” Ron asked Harry for the 4th time after reading it.

“I don't know. But they seem sincere. Defector? Somebody who'd been visiting but isn't a Death Eater?”

Harry paced. Dobby had made it back with them and taken the others to their safe places. Griphook was still in Shell Cottage.

“We need to rescue her.” Ron stated. They both were horrified at the implications of her remaining too long.

“So we send Dobby into a trap?” He asked irritated.

“Or what? Storm one of the strongest wizard residence in England?” he shook his head saying, “The wards alone would prevent entry.”

“Dobby has risked so much already for us.” Harry said sadly, “Dobby?” He called to the empty room.

Dobby arrived with a pop, “Harry Potter! How can Dobby help?”

“Dobby, Hermione is still in the Malfoy Manor and is being tortured. I just received a letter telling me she's about to meet You-Know-Who. Does the west study on the second floor mean anything to you?” Harry asked gently.

“Y-yes…,” Dobby shook for a moment, “It’s young Master Malfoy's study, Harry Potter.” With wide eyes he watched Harry.

“Shit!” He paced, “it's a trap.” Harry looked to Ron.

“Dobby, we need to rescue Hermione. But going in there is a trap. Could you get us in there?” Ron asked hurriedly.

“Dobby could sir. But if it's a trap… I won't let any harm come to Harry Potter or his friends!” Dobby had a determined glint in his eyes.

“I can't let you-” Harry started.

“Dobby want to protect Harry Potter and his friends.” Dobby interrupted.

“Alright,” he sighed, “let's save Hermione.”