Unkempt Grimmauld Place and Lurking Watchers

As August passes, Grimmauld Place becomes a frequent location for mysterious visitors who observe the invisible number twelve. Harry Potter is nearly seen by Death Eaters when he Apparates back into the house. Inside, the house-elf Kreacher has drastically cleaned the house, and R.A.B.'s Locket now hangs from his neck. Harry brings news to Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger about Severus Snape becoming Hogwarts' headmaster.