Harry Potter and the Deep Freeze

A Decision in the Shadows

The townsfolk of the sanctuary had grown close over the months, forging bonds through shared work, survival, and the unique challenges of life under the dome. Though they hailed from different backgrounds—Muggles, Squibs, and magical folk alike—they had come to see the sanctuary as more than just a refuge. It was a home.

But more than that, they had come to see Harry Potter as more than a leader.

In the early hours of the morning, while the main group remained unaware, a quiet gathering formed at the edge of the Forbidden Forest. The snow-covered ground muffled their steps as they filed into the trees, speaking in hushed voices until they reached a clearing far from prying eyes.

A Quiet Council

A large circle formed, the townsfolk huddled together under the towering trees. At the center stood a blacksmith named Thomas Bramwell, his broad shoulders and soot-streaked hands marking him as one of the sanctuary's most respected artisans. Beside him were several others—builders, farmers, merchants, and healers—all representing the diverse voices of the sanctuary's growing population.

"It's been months now," Thomas began, his deep voice carrying easily in the stillness. "Months of safety, of progress. None of us would be here if it weren't for Harry Potter."

There was a murmur of agreement from the crowd.

"He's more than a leader," said Marianne Deering, one of the farmers. "He's the reason we're alive. The reason we can rebuild."

A young apprentice blacksmith named Eliott stepped forward, his eyes shining with conviction. "Harry doesn't just lead us. He fights for us. He plans for us. He protects us like... like a king would."

The word hung in the air, heavy with meaning.

The Discussion

There was a moment of silence before Marianne spoke again. "A king," she repeated. "That's what he is, isn't he? He doesn't claim it, but we all know it."

Another voice piped up from the crowd. "He's never asked for power. That's why he's the one who should have it."

Thomas nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Then let's make it official. Not because he demands it, but because we believe it. Harry is our protector—our ruler. It's time we showed him what he means to us."

The Crown's Creation

Eliott, the apprentice, looked up at Thomas. "You're the best blacksmith we've got. You should make him a crown."

Thomas hesitated, his weathered hands flexing at his sides. "A crown's not just a piece of metal, lad. It has to mean something. It has to represent who he is."

"It should be simple," Marianne said. "Not gaudy or overdone. That's not Harry's way."

"Agreed," Thomas said, his voice firm. "A crown fit for a protector, not a tyrant. One that symbolizes unity—what this sanctuary stands for."

Eliott stepped closer, his excitement evident. "We'll forge it together. The blacksmiths, the jewelers, everyone who wants to help."

The crowd murmured their approval, and Thomas's gaze swept over them. "Then it's settled. We'll make the crown, and when the time is right, we'll present it to him as our king—our protector."

A United Purpose

The townsfolk dispersed soon after, their hearts alight with purpose. As they returned to their homes, the blacksmiths gathered in Thomas's workshop, sketching designs and pooling their resources. Gold and silver were melted down, gemstones were polished, and every detail was painstakingly considered.

The crown began to take shape—elegant yet understated, with lines that evoked strength and unity. Its centerpiece was a radiant golden crystal, reminiscent of Harry's core color.

It wasn't just a crown. It was a symbol of their gratitude, their trust, and their hope for the future.

Unseen by Harry

Meanwhile, Harry remained blissfully unaware of the townsfolk's plans. As he spent the day meeting with his core team, overseeing dungeon reports, and planning the next set of expansions for the sanctuary, he had no idea that deep in the heart of the sanctuary, his people were preparing to honor him in a way he never expected.

For Harry, being a leader wasn't about titles or recognition. It was about doing what was necessary to protect those under his care.

But for the people of the sanctuary, Harry wasn't just a leader. He was their king. And soon, he would know it.