The elves were gossiping about a duel that went on in the Ministry of Magic, but Winky wasn't listening. She was tired after being up all night sitting on her stool, moping about this or that. She had finally understood she was free, but was unable to fully comprehend what it meant. She was still getting used to this dress which she was wearing, with the Hogwarts crest on it, glowing with its own light. She shook her head as she heard what went on at the Ministry, knowing it was all gossip, that the truth would be known soon.