Thanks for your comments/reviews since my last update, and also, a shout-out to those who have added the story to your alert list, c2, or favourite list, it's almost as good as a review, 'ya know!

Posted February xx, 2012.

SUMMARY: The Commonwealth sets things in motion to help Harry deal with Voldemort once and for all; Harry meanwhile, takes steps to protect a number of supporters from England.

36: THE GAME IS AFOOT

October 1, 2006 – End of March, 2007

2 Frostfall, 4E201 / 2 October, 2006

The past week had once again seen a return to a more regular schedule. While there were a few guild assignments that punctuated the daily routine, Harry resumed his level six review. Justin wasn't quite ready to have him sit his level six exams just yet, but promised to do so at the end of the month.

As of late, the day typically ended with Harry and his friends taking dinner in the Ragged Flagon. The events of the past week had brought Harry and Mazhe a little closer to the guild, and so this was becoming a bit of a routine.

So it was, Harry was just about to dig into his meal, when an owl fluttered in from the direction of the apartment. It landed rather awkwardly on the table, nearly spilling Mazhe's drink. It had a paper in its beak.

"Unfortunate we can't have the newspaper just sent to our mobiles," Mazhe muttered, a hand firmly gripping his mug before it fell.

Harry could only nod in agreement as he reached into his rucksack and summoned a few coins—six knuts—and placed them in the small leather pouch affixed to the owl's leg. The bird let out an appreciative chirp, and took off, this time sending Harry's mug to the floor.

"Perhaps the bird offers sage advice," said Crixus, from the next table over.

"And I'll have it stuffed," Harry muttered.

"And you have to pay for it now?" Vekel asked, as he placed a fresh bottle of mead on the table.

"Only if it's got something important—something that pertains to me," Harry explained, as he lay the paper out beside his plate. "And... yeah, this pertains to me."

A large moving picture took up the upper part of the front page, depicting non-magical emergency services cleaning up after what was clearly a fire of epic proportions. The caption in large letters below it read: INFERNO IN LONDON

In smaller print below it, the subtitle: Four city blocks destroyed after explosion, 'Unusual' message discovered in wreckage.

Muggle emergency services worked for nearly fourteen hours to extinguish a massive fire in central London yesterday, after an explosion rocked an apartment block. Eyewitness accounts all report seeing a green flash, just before the explosion that rang out just after the conclusion of the morning rush hour. The Ministry was quick to dispatch officials from the Department of Magical Accidents and Catastrophes, in the event the cause was magical in nature.

Though there was no spell residue, officials did find a most unusual message still intact within the charred ruins, which read "Congratulations, Albus, you've created another monster". When questioned about the possible identity of the person or persons responsible, the Ministry declined to comment, other than stating, "DMLE is investigating, and when we know something, so will you." When questioned as to whether Voldemort and his Death Eaters may be responsible, the Ministry again declined to comment, once again declaring that they were investigating...

Harry stopped reading at that point. Sure, there had been other attacks in England over the past while—the Department of Information had certainly brought him up to date on the string of attacks that had taken place over the summer, and still carried on infrequently as of late. So this incident could most certainly be credited to the Dark Lord. The deviation, though, was the message. Up to this point, Voldemort and his Death Eaters never left a written message... only the Dark Mark.

October 14

Harry had been looking forward to this date for a while. It was the first Hogsmeade visit of the year, and the first time in well over a year he would see his friends from Hogwarts. Sure, he realized, he could easily just visit the school, but given the dubious track record for mishap, he thought it best to just wait until the Hogsmeade weekend and meet them away from the castle.

So it was, the members of the circle were getting ready to travel by port key to Hogsmeade. As always, Brandon and Eric would be providing security (as would a few other SOU, not that Harry would be aware of it), again, given the history of incidents in and around the school.

"Harry. Just before we go," said Justin, reaching into his satchel, and pulling out a package. "You should have gotten one of these last year, but given all the crazy shit going on, I didn't have a chance."

A tap of his wand had the package restored to its proper size. As Harry accepted it, Justin continued, "You may not actually attend classes at the school itself, but Sir Malcolm Davis is providing the syllabus. So it's only appropriate you wear the school colours."

"I... oh." Harry had opened the package, and inside was a jacket exactly like Justin's. The body was a deep crimson, while the sleeves were an off-white shade. The cuffs were alternating crimson and gold, and a large gold 'D' with white edging was sewn onto the left chest. The pocket openings and the buttons matched the sleeves.

"Gratitude," said Harry, as he slipped it on.

"All of the students attending your school receive such a thing?" asked Dardanos.

"Actually no. They are quite expensive," Justin answered, "Most of the guys in the sports programs have them, but... not exclusively. And Harry sort of qualifies, given his, uh, extra-curricular activities."

"Right. Killing dragons and demi-gods," Tommy smirked.

Justin glanced up at the clock over the fireplace. "We probably should get going. We're meeting at the Three Broomsticks, right?"

Just before 11 am local time, they arrived just outside the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade via port key. The street was already busy with students from the castle.

"Ah. Mr. Potter. Good to see you again," Professor Flitwick greeted.

"And to you, professor."

"You are well?"

"As good as can be expected. I trust you and your colleagues have been made aware of certain operations that are ongoing."

"Very much so. It's good to see someone taking action rather than sitting around worrying about things."

"Exactly. With luck, we can put an end to the madness and restore peace. Then I can be rid of the cloud that hangs over my head."

"I wish you good luck. Now, I'd best not keep you. I believe Mr. Weasley and Miss Granger are already inside."

"Gratitude, professor." Harry inclined his head, and the professor made off to strike up conversation with another group of students.

The large group invaded the Three Broomsticks—invade was an apt description, considering the place wasn't all that big. It was already nearly crammed with students and regular patrons.

Dardanos let out a chuckle. "Perhaps, an alternate location would have been more suitable for this reunion."

"A little late. Let's—"

"Harry?" Harry focused on the speaker. Hermione and Ron had chosen a booth near the window, along with Ginny and Dean.

"Bloody hell, mate!" Ron exclaimed, taking in his old friend.

Though it had only been a half-year, Harry was barely recognizable. His hair was nearly down to his shoulders, with a single braid on the left side. He was taller, his face still quite dark—spending a year in the hot sun tended to do that. And the way he was dressed—purely non-magical, wearing a pair of loose-fitting jeans, a tee shirt, and a school varsity jacket.

"Merlin, Harry. You've grown up," said Hermione, also taking him in.

"Tiid bo amativ, Hermione—time flows ever onward. I would introduce a few new friends. This is Miraak, Dardanos, and Crixus. Miraak, Dardanos, Crixus. I introduce former classmates and old friends, Ron, Hermione, Ginny, and Dean."

As they greeted each other, Harry continued, "The others, you will remember, of course."

"How long are you visiting?" asked Ron.

"Only for the afternoon. Though there is the temptation to travel back up to the school with you, past events have me set against doing so. I desire not for us to contend with unsettling matters on the occasion of reunion."

Ginny couldn't help but giggle, listing to Harry speaking.

"The source of your amusement is lost on us," said Crixus.

Harry smirked. "Enesek daar los zuk nalgask."

"What?" came four confused voices.

"I said, perhaps this is more suitable."

"He speaks Dovahzul, the language of the dragons," Miraak explained.

"Oh. You mean the language you used talking to the dragon in the first task of the tournament," Hermione remembered.

"Exactly. I now have two dragon tutors back in Skyrim. Both have been great allies in the events concluded less than a fortnight past."

"You faced dragons... again?" Ron asked.

"We still face them," answered Harry, "An ancient prophecy unfolded in Last Seed, bringing many of them back to life. Though we defeated the one responsible, and a great number of them have turned from their path of domination, there is no way to know how many still pose threat."

"I could not have done it without Harry," said Mazhe, putting his arm around his mate.

It was then Hermione noticed the rings, first on Harry's finger, then on Mazhe's.

"You're... you're engaged?! When?!" she exclaimed, excited.

"Alduin's body had only just been banished. Before the circle and the heroes of old, I proclaimed my love and asked him to take my name," Mazhe answered.

"Though no date has been set, you would all honour us by attending our union."

"Of course we'll be coming, Harry. Good grief, not even seventeen—"

"Hermione. I'm of age in every meaning of the word. Events have taken place that I would not speak of here, but know that I am older than you might think... old enough to take a new name. Such as Mazhe also carries title, it would become mine."

"New titles?" Ron looked confused.

"Hi los Dovahkiin, Strundu'ul, Dovahsebrom—He is Dragonborn, Stormcrown, dragon of the North."

Mazhe now saw where Harry was going. "Harry will also carry the name Stormcrown. Perhaps burying his birth name would be a positive thing. Far too many see Harry as only a symbol, rather than a person."

"I would do so now."

"You don't need my permission, Harry."

"But... your... how did this happen? When we last saw the pair of you, the two of you were best friends maybe, nothing more," said Ginny, confused.

"As Harry said, events took place we can't talk about here. But we were separated, and... after we were reunited, Harry made his feelings for me quite well known. I think we only finally acknowledged feelings that have been there for some time."

"Considering they did grow up together, practically joined at the hip," said Justin, "Really, are you guys that surprised?"

Tommy let out a smirk. "At least Harry's not lusting after me anymore."

Harry rolled his eyes, while the rest had a laugh.

The conversation flowed as Harry brought his old school friends up to date with what he'd been doing over the past while (keeping away from his incursion into 73BCE Capua for now). Hermione did keep casting glances at Dardanos and Crixus, but said little else—she knew she would get the full tale from Harry eventually. The lot of them had lunch, then a few snacks as the afternoon wore on.

Finally, as it neared dinner time, it came time for the students to return to the castle.

"Walk with us, at least back up to the castle gate," said Hermione.

"I guess we can go that far."

"We can port key back to Riften from there," Eric decided. Everyone stood, and Harry slipped on his jacket.

"That's from the school you would have went to if you'd stayed in the Commonwealth," Hermione guessed.

"Though I don't attend physically, all of the lessons and materials are provided by Sir Malcolm Davis Institute."

"He's a student pretty much every other way," said Justin. "The school had wanted to give him one of these—" he gestured to the jacket Harry was wearing, "—since last fall, but... events haven't allowed for it until now."

"I wish they had sent one along anyway. Wearing such a thing within the castle would have drawn much irritation from the old man," said Harry, with a vicious smirk, "It would have provided much satisfaction, seeing him casting those 'I'm disappointed in you' looks. Oh, wait... he did that quite frequently anyway."

He gave another vicious smirk, as they made for the door.

"Has there been any word on exactly what the old man is up to in recent days?"

"We haven't heard anything since he left the school," said Hermione, "Nothing in the Prophet either."

"I think he's spending all his time working with the Order these days," said Ron.

"Just as long as he stays far away from me, then quite frankly, I could care less what he gets up to. He can go bugger a goat for all I care."

"Harry!" Hermione gasped, looking shocked. That had the group roaring with laughter as they spilled out onto the street.

"What? Recently I had ample opportunity to conduct research into certain affairs, including that of our former headmaster. A rumour did circulate, you should know."

"Scandalous."

"Gods... maybe we should have you sit down with the Department of Information again. They're still investigating Dumbledore's affairs," said Brandon, as they started up toward the castle.

Harry shrugged. "I doubt anything I uncovered would be all that useful to the Commonwealth. Most of it is hearsay, carrying little use for legal action."

"Perhaps some of it, but anything you might know could be further researched and collaborated."

"I guess there is a valid point. One example—"

A terrible scream had them all looking up the path. A student had suddenly lifted into the air, head arched back in an almost painful position, obviously the source of the dreadful sound.

"Everyone stay back!" Eric commanded, sprinting up the path toward the girl. Brandon was already on his mobile, while Harry, Mazhe, and Justin circled around the stricken girl—Katie Bell, if Harry remembered her name. She was a year ahead of him. A box lay open on the ground, and a strange-looking necklace lay in the snow beside it.

Harry bent down, and gestured with a hand, sending the necklace back into the box, and snapped it shut. Katie, meanwhile, collapsed to the snow, still thrashing about as though having a seizure. Eric had no choice but to stun her to prevent further injury.

"Ron... Hermione... i think it's time we get you away from Hogwarts," Harry decided. "I don't know what this is... but things are about to get far worse before they ever get better."

"But... my parents—" Hermione began.

"The Commonwealth shouldn't have any trouble convincing your family of the need," said Brandon, as he levitated Katie's unconscious form, "It's best we get her to the care of Madam Pomfrey."

Harry produced his wand.

"Expecto Patronum," he whispered, and to the stag which formed, he said, "Professor, meet us at the entry hall with your Defence professor. Katie Bell has been seriously injured by a cursed object."

He blew out a breath watching it bound away up to the school. "Gods. Can't even set food in Hogsmeade without some sort of fucking calamity falling at our feet."

"Harry!"

"Do not scold my foul tongue. I have many words I would use given the circumstances," Harry muttered, stowing away his wand.

"Harry. I'll take that," said Eric, gesturing to the box.

"Right." Harry passed it over. "I seriously doubt miss Bell was the end target for this."

"We won't know until she regains consciousness," said Eric.

"A CSU will meet us in the hospital wing," said Brandon, finally putting away his mobile, turning his full focus on the injured student he still held levitated with his wand.

"I now understand what you mean by calamity," said Dardanos, from behind Harry.

"I make no exaggeration on any tale I have told you. I can back up every claim with pensieve evidence. Nii fah den dahrin zu'u gun daar staad—It is for those reasons I dislike coming here."

The rest of the way up, they remained silent, lost to their thoughts. Harry cursed silently in his head. Another visit to Hogwarts, and another mess to sort out. At the rate he was going, one of these days, someone was going to end up dead!

With the plan now under way, perhaps it was time to pull a few others away from the school as well—the draconian legislation be damned. He mentally checked off a few people he would make overtures to... Neville, Dean, Seamus... the rest of the Weasleys... maybe have a look at the list of students that had been in the Defence club last year...

In the entrance hall, they were joined by Professor McGonagall, as well as the new Defence professor.

"Good Lord, Potter... you don't even set foot in the castle and trouble manages to find you."

Harry gave a rueful smile. "The gods hate me. That is my only explanation."

"Professor, the object at the source of the problem," said Eric, presenting the case to the Defence professor. She accepted it, and cracked open the lid, to peer inside.

"What is it?" Harry asked.

The Defence professor frowned. "Miss Bell is lucky to be alive."

"Let's get her up to the care of Madam Pomfrey, and we can be on our way," said Brandon.

"Professor, a CSU is meeting us, they'll want to see the necklace for themselves."

A few minutes later, Katie was laid on a bed in the hospital wing, while Madam Pomfrey began conducting a number of diagnostic charms. As expected, a crime scene unit from the Commonwealth was already waiting, and though they did not immediately begin an examination of their own, they observed as Madam Pomfrey worked.

"Perhaps one of our healing potions might have an effect," Miraak offered.

"No. Last time we had an interaction between worlds in such a manner... well..." Harry simply gestured to Tommy.

"Gee, thanks," Tommy muttered, as he felt everyone's eyes on him for a moment.

"Right. I think the government has this under control. We'd best get back to Skyrim," Brandon decided.

"Uh... right. Ron, Hermione... we'll be in touch about... well, what I mentioned a while ago. I really do not wish for you to be in harm's way," said Harry.

"We know," said Hermione. "Just, be careful, Harry."

Calamity in Western Crawley

1 home destroyed, 4 others badly damaged in early morning blast

Police and fire services continue to comb through the destruction from an earth-shattering blast which sent residents in an upper middle-class neighbourhood in western Crawley out into the streets early yesterday morning.

Three families have been accounted for, all escaping with only minor injuries, while one other is unaccounted for and thus far believed to have been away when the blast occurred. One family has been confirmed dead, their bodies being found in the remains of the house at the epicentre of the destruction. Police have yet to identify the remains, but no names will be disclosed until next-of-kin are notified...

Unexplained Explosion Rocks Muggle Neighbourhood

Second unusual message discovered in the wreckage

Muggle emergency services were busy yesterday in the west end of Crawley, after a powerful explosion rocked the neighbourhood. The blast was centred on the home of Dr. Elliot and Linda Granger—their only daughter is a sixth year student at Hogwarts, and one of Harry Potter's strongest supporters.

Once again, a message was found scarred on an undamaged section of wall, reading, 'Congratulations, Albus, you've created another monster'. The Ministry has yet to make further comment about the first message, and with the appearance of this one, perhaps they will be ready to share a little more insight. One Dark Lord is enough, is it not?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

17 October, 2006 / 17 Hearthfire, 4E201

Harry himself had joined Hermione when she met with her parents, and it took only a few minutes for them to truly understand the gravity of what was going on. After all, pensieve memories were extremely efficient. The Government would look after their finances and help them to re-establish themselves back in England once the threat had been dealt with. In the immediate term, Elliot and Linda Granger would join Remus back in Skyrim.

So it was, the Grangers' residence had been quite literally teleported to a plot of land near Remus' cottage just outside of Riften. This was done in the small hours of the morning, and as far as the non-magical population in the area was concerned, nothing had changed—at least, not until the explosion that woke the neighbourhood. In reality, all that had been destroyed, was an illusion.

With the dragon threat still not completely ended, Hermione's parents were provided with emergency port keys that would take them into the underground apartment. Otherwise, they were encouraged to enjoy a sudden break from their busy lives, and perhaps spend some time with their daughter. It was something they readily agreed to. Hermione had been retrieved from Hogwarts the day after the explosion by someone claiming to be a relative. Actually, it had been a pair of SOU in disguise, and she was quickly spirited away to Skyrim, to be reunited with Harry and his circle.

Exactly a week following, England's Wizarding world was rocked by yet another high-profile attack, this one targeting the Weasleys. Two separate attacks took place, first against the family's home near Ottery St. Catchpole, while the other levelled Weasleys' Wizarding Wheezes, the twins' shop in Diagon Alley. In both cases, a nasty message was discovered in the wreckage. In both cases, bodies were also discovered, so horribly damaged they were beyond recognition.

Like the Grangers' residence, the Burrow was simply collected and relocated by the Commonwealth. As an additional benefit, the government contractor also did some work to further stabilize the house, and make its very structure much more resistant to destructive magic.

The twins' shop, meanwhile, was not spared. The contents had been collected, and were sent to Harry's apartment, but everything else was left behind and destroyed. By the time the Aurors arrived on scene, the building was destroyed, and by their count, the young wizard proprietors dead.

On October 25, at breakfast in the great hall at Hogwarts, Professor McGonagall personally collected both the Weasleys still remaining at the school. By that time, most of the student body was well aware of the terrible attack the previous evening, considering it was splashed all over the front page of the Daily Prophet. To them, it was only a sad cap to a dreadful set of circumstances. Far worse, for the first time, the paper had suggested that perhaps Harry himself was responsible for the ghastly act, considering his friendship with both families.

Rather than breaking bad news, Professor McGonagall only led Ron and Ginny to her office in order to send them through the floo so they could reunite with their family. The past week had seen lots of discussion flow back and forth between the Commonwealth and Hogwarts, with the headmistress being fully aware of the unfolding plot. As far as she was concerned, the children were being moved to a far more secure location—perhaps one of the most secure in the world. With that in mind, she expected there to be more 'incidents' over the coming weeks and months, as Harry sought to protect those who were truly in his corner.

Harry's routine changed very little with his school friends present. If anything, he ended up becoming somewhat of a tutor himself, given he was practically a year ahead of everyone—two in the case of Ginny. Given it was her O.W.L. year, both Ron and Hermione helped out with her review. Of course, it didn't hurt that they were getting a review of the material themselves.

Friday mornings, Harry was once again taking blacksmithing lessons from Balimund. Monday mornings were spent with Tommy, the SOU team, and the former gladiators, as they went through combat training.

Monday afternoons, meanwhile, were spent at the summit of the Throat of the World, learning the dragon language from Paarthurnax and Sahrotaar—the younger dragon had taken to staying with the elder, rather than returning to Solstheim. Not only were the dragons teaching him the language, but were also starting him on the path to learning the thu'um. It was very unlikely Harry would ever harness the power as Mazhe and Miraak did, but even to learn a few of the words meant only one more weapon at his disposal.

Tuesdays meant a trek to Morthal, where Falion continued to teach Harry conjuration. Falion had been most impressed with Harry's demonstration of his summoning of the demon from Apocrypha, but like Frea, had cautioned him on the dangers of doing so. The Daedric lords and ladies were not to be trifled with or made light of.

The remainder of the fall passed with relative peace, at least as far as Harry and his circle were concerned. Sure, they were certainly kept up to date with things back in the magical world, but there, in Skyrim, life had fallen into a simple routine of classes, training, and the occasional adventure. Being a member of the guild most certainly fostered that sort of thing, after all.

Back in the magical world, however, things were anything but calm. The rate of occurrence for incidents had climbed to three or four a week by the beginning of December. Most of them were easily written up to Voldemort, the tell-tale Dark Mark floating above the scene. But some, it was very clear the Dark Lord was not the culprit. The scenes were disaster areas. Overkill. Mass destruction, corpses mangled beyond recognition. The level of violence depicted an individual or individuals fuelled by unmitigated, uncapped, boiling rage. The only question was, were they working for the Dark Lord, or were they operating on their own agenda?

Harry, though, wasn't concerned about events in his own world. He trusted that things were being handled by professionals. Everything being done only brought an ending to the madness a little closer. In all honesty, he really didn't care about what the Wizarding world thought of him. Once Voldemort was gone, he would have no need to return to Earth. He would make his home in Skyrim, and he and Mazhe would grow old together.

December 21 marked yet another young tradition, as the enlarged group once again took in the holiday concert performance at the Fox Theatre. This time the event featured Handel's "Messiah", a truly epic composition that showcased the theatre organ's powerful pipes, accompanied by dozens of voices.

December 25, meanwhile, saw Harry and a few of his circle attend the Queen's annual Christmas banquet at her palace. This time, they were asked to arrive a little early, so Harry could meet with the Queen.

"Are you sure you want to proceed with the next stage of the plan? There's no guarantee we will be able to restore your reputation at its conclusion," said the Queen.

"Those I care about know the truth. Perhaps I am selling my soul to the underworld, but I do as I must, to complete the journey the gods have set me on. I trust the Commonwealth has my back, though many of its people may see me as the villain in the end."

"This is true. You are making a life for yourself in Skyrim?"

"I have no life anywhere else, your grace. Though the Commonwealth has done great things for me, I will never see this as my home. When I am free of the burden of my destiny, my presence here will be infrequent at best."

"It is most unfortunate. The world is losing a great mage. Someone like you has the power to make lasting changes, Harry."

"I know. Equally I know, far too many will see only the name, and not the person behind it. Though I will be taking steps to somewhat mitigate that, gratitude to my betrothed for making it so."

"Your betrothed? You have been holding out on us, Mr. Potter," the Queen laughed.

"Gods... he shocked me, I can tell you that much. Right there, at the threshold of Sovngarde itself. Moments after he killed Alduin. He goes down on one knee, and asks for my hand."

"Young Mazhe has a flair for the dramatic."

"You would do us great honour by attending, your grace."

"How could I ever decline? Have either of you given any thought to where you might hold your ceremony?"

"We haven't even set a date yet," answered Harry, "Rem drok hiitir do havoth—too many pressing matters of concern. The best case scenario, I would see it done sometime in the summer. That will depend on how matters conclude here in this world. If Tom Riddle has not met aus on dinok—unending suffering beyond death by that time—"

"Harry, do not put your own plans on hold to work around ours. You've left the intricate workings of the plan in our hands, precisely so you may see to your own matters. Your joyous union to your love should not be interrupted by less significant matters."

December 30 brought about yet another remarkable event, in that the Longbottoms' manor was completely obliterated, the remains found within the wreckage smashed and burned beyond recognition. Exactly as had been the case with the Weasleys, a message was found in the wreckage, kept intact by an unbreakable charm: "Congratulations, Albus, you've created another monster." Far more alarming, the Dark Mark was floating above the scene, in all its sinister glory. Now, it was very clear: the unknown was in fact working for Voldemort.

Meanwhile, by the following morning, the Longbottoms' manor was actually settled into its final position on a plot of land close to the Weasleys—once again, it had only been an illusion that had been destroyed, while the real thing was moved. Through the guild's influence on the local government, the land was easily obtained, and no taxes would be collected. That made four residences now clumped together a little southeast of the city—a small invasion from Harry's world.

The government had also arranged for Neville's parents to be collected from St. Mungo's. Though they were in a vegetative state, they still lived, and they were most certainly a part of the family, and so they were moved to the manor. Healer Ferris made arrangements for healers to make a house call daily to provide care.

1 Morning Star, 4E202 / 1 January, 2007

Ice skating was something that was completely lost on both Harry and Mazhe, for almost identical reasons: lack of exposure to it. However, there had been interest expressed from a number of others in the group of former Hogwarts students, and so, that afternoon, a section of the ice was cleared near Goldenglow Estate—the property's owner was once again under the guild's thumb, and so had 'graciously' opened his home to the group. A massive bonfire had been lit, with some of the mercenaries that provided security on the island helping keep it fed. The bonfire also meant hot apple cider and hot chocolate, as well as an assortment of treats, all of that handled by Mrs. Weasley, who looked to be in her element, being kept busy with the event.

Both Harry and Mazhe had coaxed, cajoled, coerced, and nearly threatened the rest of the guild to also join them out on the frozen lake, and in the end, no one could refuse. Dierge, and a pair of SOU members remained in the Flagon to keep an eye on things (though Harry had locked both entrances into the cistern). Mazhe and Harry both agreed that it was about getting the membership out of the 'cave' that was their home, and out into the fresh air for some good old fashioned fun.

Emily and Rosie were having the time of their lives, in between their uncle and the twins. The two girls had been provided with beginner skates, and spent more time on their arses, or hoisted up on someone's shoulders, instead of on their feet. They laughed, squealed, and giggled for most of the afternoon.

Harry, meanwhile, didn't take long to work out how to skate—at least well enough that he didn't land on his backside very few strides. Most of the guild, likewise, seemed to grasp the basic concept, although most of them were rather choppy at it no matter what. Ice-skating had been up to then unheard of in Skyrim, however, being a practised thief also meant having great balance and nimble feet—skills part and parcel to being good on skates.

"This was an excellent idea, Harry," said Karliah, as she took a seat beside him and Mazhe by the fire. Mrs. Weasley was already hustling over with a heavy blanket and a warm cup of cider.

"We can't exactly take credit for it. My school friends gave suggestion. We only expanded on it."

"I would love to see us do this again," said Mazhe, "We spend far too much time in the cistern."

"If that's what you want to do, it's up to you, Mazhe."

"No. I won't just railroad everyone into doing something. It has to be a membership decision. Everyone has to have a say on matters."

"Agreed," said Harry, "We're a family in so many ways... but everyone has to have a voice in matters. It's the only way the family can become stronger, more effective. This treachery by Mercer caused great harm. It violated the trust of the guild itself."

He took a sip of his cider.

"Doing activities together can only move to strengthen our purpose."

Brynjolf took the seat beside Mazhe.

"It's been a long time since I've actually done something truly fun, lads."

"Mazhe would see us do this sort of thing again."

"Agreed," said Karliah, "I would say even Vex is entertained."

They all glanced over, finding her trying to help Rosie to stay on her feet. The little girl stumbled, wind-milled, and fell nearly face-first. Vex did her best to try and catch her, but ended up going over herself.

"I would see us do this again next year," Harry decided, "Should the weather cooperate."

"Even if it doesn't, we could simply use the Virtual Projection Room," said Mazhe. "The gods have blessed us with reasonable weather today,but in there, we could make it near perfect."

"Ah, but you lose the idea of having a roaring fire to warm our hands, butts, and faces in front of," said Brandon, joining the conversation. "Come on, guys, you all grew up in this place, did you not?"

Harry could not help but laugh, knowing it to be true.

It was only when it became difficult to see from the lack of light, that they retreated back to the Ragged Flagon. For many, it was an early night, fatigue from the day's events being the primary reason. Harry and Mazhe, on the other hand, were awake into the wee hours of the morning. Sleep was the furthest from their minds. Fortunately for the rest of the apartment, silencing charms had been placed on the room.

11 Sun's Dawn, 4E202 / 11 January, 2007

That morning, it was not a Daily Prophet that arrived by post, but a copy of the National Daily Chronicle. 'BETRAYAL', screamed the single headline in large, black letters. The picture that took up the upper part of the page showed the Ministry of Social Services' central office in Trevelyan, with its upper floors a roaring inferno. Dozens of both magical and non-magical firefighters were on the scene, attempting to get a handle on the blaze. A smaller, inset picture at the top right, depicted a message, found in the burned out remains: "Dumbledork betrayed me, and so have you. Just as I will see England's Wizarding world burn, I will see Valicadia also burn."

A devastating explosion and fire sent occupants of the Ministry of Social Services' central office in Trevelyan scrambling to safety yesterday afternoon. The resulting six-alarm conflagration destroyed the upper six storeys of the building, and caused damage so far estimated to be in the millions. As an incredible stroke of luck, there were only minor injuries, and thus far, no deaths.

The initial assumption of the party responsible pointed to the same individual or individuals responsible for the swath of destruction recently unleashed in England. With the message being discovered in the wreckage once the fire was brought under control, the Ministry of Justice is likely now all but convinced of the person responsible.

Though the Daily Prophet at times publishes content that we believe to be distasteful and unsubstantiated, at times they do print content that can be proven and true. To see their coverage of recent, similar attacks, there is strong evidence that Mr. Potter may be responsible for this devastating attack in our nation's capitol yesterday.

So the question then is, what have we done to so anger Mr. Potter such that he would outright lash out at the very hands that have protected him and guided him when needed? Do we now have to fear him such as our English counterparts already do? To speak the name Harry Potter there, already conjures up nearly as much fear as to mention the Dark Lord by name. What have we done to you, Harry?

Potter: Personal war against England, Page 2

Another side of the war? Page 8

Potter's 'rescue' at age 6: were we wrong? Page 15

Harry had to wipe his eyes after reading it. The Commonwealth did have his back in every sense of the word. And so to lash out at them in such a manner, even if it were only an illusion, it still hurt. His heart ached, seeing that pleading question in the paper—the writer was personally hurt by his actions.

The end of Sun's Dawn (January) saw Harry and Mazhe travel to Markarth by port key, to meet with a man named Endon. He was a silver-smith, and a former ally of the guild. Considering Mazhe already somewhat knew who he was, it was no trouble to locate him. In this instance, they found him in the Silver-Blood Inn, seated by the fire. Ogmund, the bard in the inn's employ, was strumming his lute, his voice carrying across the room easily:

"Alduin's wings, they did darken the sky.

His roar fury's fire, and his scales sharpened scythes.

Men ran and they cowered, and they fought and they died.

They burned and they bled as they issued their cries..."(1)

"Endon?" Mazhe asked, touching the man on the shoulder.

"Eh? Oh. Mazhe, good of you to come," said Endon, looking relieved.

He was a typical redguard, dressed in the typical outfit of a merchant. A heavy cloak was slung over the back of his seat. After all, it was cold in Skyrim this time of year, no matter what part of the province you were in.

"Delvin tells us you have a small problem."

"Thank goodness. I... I didn't know where else to turn."

"How about you start from the beginning?" Harry suggested.

Endon took a deep swig from the bottle of mead he was nursing.

"Several months ago I ordered a special silver mold from some artisans in Valenwood by way of a Khajiit Caravan. Well, it never arrived. Later I found out that it was robbed by a group of bandits led by someone named Rigel Strong-Arm."

"So why did you contact the guild?" Mazhe asked

"Mazhe," said Harry, with a frown. "I see where this is going. A thief, or thieves, to steal back what they stole."

"Exactly," said Endon, "Look, this mold is irreplaceable. I'll pay you well for its return and..."

He lowered his voice, whispering, "I can also prove to be quite a valuable ally to the Thieves Guild."

"Where would we begin our search?" asked Harry.

"The only thing I can tell you is that the mold was taken to the bandit's hideout... a small cottage called Pinewatch. I'm not sure how many men they have inside, but I trust that won't be an issue for you. If you have a map, I'll point it out to you."

"Here." Mazhe produced his mobile and switched it to tablet mode to make it larger. A few button presses produced the map of the province. Endon was intrigued by the technology.

"From what I could find out, Pinewatch is here," he said, touching a finger to the spot. He was startled when the map zoomed in a bit.

"Gods, what fascinating... technology."

"We'll have an associate contact you if you're interested," said Mazhe. "But we'd better get going."

"We'll return with haste," Harry promised.

The trek to Pinewatch was relatively easy, since Mazhe had been to several locations in the area. However, once they entered the small cottage, both knew something was off. The place was pathetically small, and a cursory search of the place after dispatching the single bandit proved futile.

"Okay. We have to be overlooking the obvious," said Harry, letting out a huff. The pair of them stood in the cramped cellar, gazing around, frustrated.

"Or his intel was wrong—wait. Harry, look at that." Mazhe pointed to the floor near a large bookcase. "Is that—"

"The dust's being blown around. I wonder..."

Harry ran a hand along one side of the bookcase, and sure enough, he could feel the air escaping from behind it.

"There. A button," said Mazhe, pointing to a button on the wall beside the bookcase, partially hidden by a table beside it.

"I would summon the circle before we proceed further," Harry decided, "Where lives one bandit, there live many more."

Needless to say, the horde of bandits living in the extensive cave system beneath the cottage were no match for Harry and his circle. Sure, there were a few close calls, but nothing a few healing potions weren't able to fix. The larger group returned to the apartment for a few hours' rest, before Harry and Mazhe returned to Markarth. Endon was ecstatic when Mazhe presented him the case containing the mold.

"You have my many thanks, the both of you," he said, reaching into his robes, and pulling out a coin purse. "Split the reward between you."

"We'll do that. Glad to be of service."

"Tell Delvin that he can count on me to provide the influence around here with the right people when he needs it."

He once again lowered his voice. "Oh. And should you be needing to rid yourselves of any not-so-legal merchandise... come see me. It's the least I can do."

"I'll keep that in mind," said Mazhe, with a chuckle.

3 February, 2007 / 3 Sun's Dawn, 4E202

As Harry stepped into the dining room, having just gotten cleaned up after his morning exercises, he was momentarily startled to find a rather menacing bird resting on the back of one of the chairs. He didn't get post by way of owl very often, so obviously it was something important. This bird, was definitely not an owl, though. An eagle, perhaps, though it looked deadly.

Seeing him enter, the bird extended its leg, in which it clutched an envelope.

"And I suppose your master desires a reply, does he?" Harry asked, peering at the envelope, before breaking the wax seal on the back.

"Gods... that's a scary looking bird," Mazhe remarked, plopping into a seat. Harry simply smirked, as he read the contents.

"It is news well-received?" asked Dardanos, as he too pulled out a chair and took a seat at the table.

"It is. Our 'friend' finally breaks words with us," answered Harry, absently summoning a pad of paper and a pen. "He considers my recent activities, inspiring."

He took a few minutes to pen a reply, then sent it off with the menacing bird.

Another message arrived about a week later, in which Tom revealed his plan to attack the residence of Dean Thomas in the early hours of the following morning. Harry could only smirk as he read the missive, since he'd already had the intention of moving Dean and his family. It played right into Harry's plans, and with a call placed to the Department of Information, a counter plan was put in place that would keep the family safe. As far as the Dark Lord would believe, the residence and everyone in it would be destroyed.

Only after the deed was done and the actual residents moved, did Harry and Brandon travel to Hogwarts to collect Dean. He wold, like the other kids removed from the school, continue his education in Skyrim.

As the family was helped to get settled, Harry finally asked, "How is this possible anyway? Moving entire buildings, it truly confounds the mind."

"Harry, I think you know the answer yourself," said Justin, "The Orb of Magnus—or the Eye of Magnus, as you've encountered it as... it's a truly powerful artefact, don't you agree?"

"This is true."

"The Commonwealth has done astounding things with it," said Brandon, "And we've not even scratched the surface of what it can truly do."

"The government has lots of practice moving things, and not just buildings," Justin explained, "I mean, the larger the place is, the more complicated it gets and so on, but... I think you get the picture."

Harry thought for a moment, as they watched contractors put the finishing touches on the property. "That would include places such as the theatre."

"Yes, most definitely, as well as the facility below it. The facility would take precedence of course."

Harry thought again, before asking, "Could such a thing be done with Hogwarts?"

"Easily," Justin answered, bluntly, "It would be complex, but yes, absolutely, we could do it."

The two months passed with a number of families being relocated to Skyrim. For the most part, it was the SOU who were in communication with the Dark Lord, though all messages were shared with Harry before they were sent. That way, Harry knew exactly what the government was up to. Though the government was handling the operation, they knew it was important Harry was kept in the loop on matters.

Families that were moved included the Krum family, the Delecour family, the Diggory family, and the Finnegan family—all of them being Harry's supporters. From a public standpoint, it was clear Harry was going after those he had one time called a friend... quite literally striking out at those who were close to him. Now, whether it was done for his own end, or at the direction of He-who-must-not-be-named, it was the subject of debate. One thing was for sure: Harry Potter had become a monster in his own right.

UP NEXT: Harry and his friends take a weeks' vacation in San Francisco, where they meet a few more friends, and Harry gets an idea of something to do for Mazhe as a wedding gift; an incident sends everyone in the flat, the Ragged Flagon, and the cistern fleeing; and a missive from Voldemort sets in motion a final meeting, and a possible ending to things...

(1) From the song "Tale of the Tongues", which the bards will only sing after Skyrim's main quest is completed.