Harry Potter and the Deep Freeze

Expanding the Network

Harry woke to the faint sounds of clinking dishes from the kitchen. Blinking against the morning light streaming through the window, he threw on a shirt and shuffled out of the bedroom.

Remus was at the stove, stirring a pan of scrambled eggs. "Good morning, Harry," he said, glancing over his shoulder. "Hope you don't mind—I thought I'd make breakfast. Figured you could use a good meal before tackling whatever's next on your endless to-do list."

Harry smiled as he sat down at the table. "Thanks, Remus. I could definitely use the fuel."

As Remus served the eggs with a side of toast, he asked, "What's the plan for today?"

"I need to start expanding our network," Harry replied, taking a bite. "We've got a solid foundation—Neville, Luna, Draco, and now you—but we're going to need more people. And not just witches and wizards. Creatures, craftsmen, people who can help us prepare for what's coming."

Remus nodded thoughtfully. "Sounds like you've got your work cut out for you. Where do you plan to start?"

"With the goblins," Harry said. "They've been reliable so far, and they've got connections. I want to see if they know anyone—human or otherwise—who might be willing to join our cause. After that..." He trailed off, his brow furrowed.

"What?" Remus asked.

"I think I need to approach Hagrid," Harry said. "If anyone can rally creatures and help with logistics, it's him."

Remus smiled. "Good idea. You'll have to tread carefully, though. Hagrid's loyalty to Dumbledore and the Ministry might make him wary of anything too secretive."

"I know," Harry said, standing. "That's why I'll go to him in person. But first, I've got to check on the goblins' progress."

Returning to Gringotts

Later that morning, Harry Apparated to Gringotts and made his way inside. The goblins were as efficient as ever, and Grintok greeted him with a sharp-toothed grin.

"Mr. Potter," Grintok said. "You're here just in time for an update on your projects."

"Good," Harry said. "Show me."

Grintok led him to a private office and unrolled a large map of Hogsmeade. "The construction has begun," he said, pointing to several marked areas. "The foundation for the apartments is being laid, and we've already started work on the shops and inn. As for your farmland, our surveyors have determined the best locations for irrigation and grazing."

Harry nodded, impressed by the goblins' thoroughness. "Excellent. How soon do you think the apartments will be ready?"

"Two months, if the weather holds," Grintok replied. "Possibly less."

"That's fast," Harry said.

"We are goblins," Grintok said simply. "Efficiency is in our nature."

Harry grinned. "That's why I hired you."

He leaned forward, his tone growing serious. "Grintok, I also need your help with something else. Do you know of anyone—wizards, witches, or creatures—who might be willing to join our efforts? People with skills in crafting, farming, or even security?"

Grintok tilted his head, his sharp eyes narrowing. "There are a few names that come to mind. Some of them are unconventional, but if you're willing to take risks, they could be valuable allies."

"I'm willing," Harry said firmly.

Grintok nodded. "I'll make inquiries and send you a list within the week."

Visiting Hagrid

That afternoon, Harry made his way to the edge of the Forbidden Forest, where Hagrid was tending to a herd of thestrals. The half-giant looked up as Harry approached, his face breaking into a wide grin.

"Harry! Good ter see yeh!" Hagrid boomed, striding forward and pulling Harry into a crushing hug.

"Good to see you too, Hagrid," Harry said, grinning despite the fact that he could barely breathe.

"What brings yeh out here?" Hagrid asked, releasing him.

"I need your help," Harry said, his tone serious.

Hagrid's smile faded slightly. "Course, Harry. Whatever yeh need."

They sat on a fallen log near the thestrals, and Harry explained the situation—carefully. He didn't tell Hagrid everything, but he spoke about the coming danger and the need to prepare.

"I need someone who can help with the logistics of moving creatures and supplies," Harry said. "And who can keep this quiet."

Hagrid frowned, scratching his beard. "Yer askin' a lot, Harry. But if yeh think this is as important as yeh say..." He nodded firmly. "I'm in."

Harry felt a wave of relief. "Thanks, Hagrid. I knew I could count on you."

Hagrid smiled. "Always, Harry. Now, let's talk about what creatures yeh'll need. I can think of a few that'd be right useful."

Dinner and Planning

Harry returned to his flat that evening, exhausted but satisfied. Remus had made a simple dinner of stew and bread, and they ate together at the small table.

"How'd it go?" Remus asked.

"Good," Harry said. "The goblins are on track, and Hagrid's on board. I've got Grintok looking into more allies, too."

Remus smiled. "You're building quite the team, Harry."

"I hope it's enough," Harry said, his tone serious.

Remus clapped a hand on his shoulder. "It will be. You've got the right people on your side."

After dinner, they sat together, going over maps and plans late into the night. Harry felt a growing sense of purpose as the pieces of his vision began to take shape.

This time, he thought as he finally lay down to sleep, they had a real chance.