Horrid Creatures

The first time Narcissa saw Kreacher, she couldn't help exclaiming, "Ugh! What a horrid creature!"

There was a moment's silence and then her aunt Walburga gasped. Narcissa flushed, waiting for the scolding that she was sure would come, but, surprisingly, her aunt threw back her head and laughed.

"The child is right. It's a perfect name for him. Kreacher. Kreacher, elf to the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Black."

Pointing her wand at the diminutive elf, Walburga announced, "Elf, I name you Kreacher."

There was a muffled bang and then Kreacher sprang up, bowing low, "How can Kreacher serve Mistress?"