The Dresden Files, #1
Storm Front
by Jim Butcher
Contents
Chapter Twenty-four
Overview
Harry races through a storm to Victor Sells’s lake house and surveys it with his Sight, witnessing death-laden omens and amassed dark power. Tempted to obliterate the house, he steadies himself with his mother’s pentacle and recommits to wizardly principles. Unarmed but resolute, he enters to confront Victor.
Summary
Harry barrels Mac’s TransAm toward Lake Providence in worsening storm light, intent on stopping Victor Sells before a killing spell can be cast. He reaches the Sells property, injured but driven, and halts short of the house to assess for wards and traps.
Opening his Third Eye, Harry Sees the house as a nexus of dark emotions and looming death, with skulls and ghostly activity foreshadowing lethal outcomes. Within, violet power builds, signaling Victor’s preparations. The vision tempts Harry to annihilate the house and its occupants preemptively.
As Harry’s rage swells toward murder, his mother’s pentacle chills against his chest and an inexplicable, feminine hand seems to guide him to it. The symbol’s order and memory clear his mind. He reaffirms that magic must protect and mend, not murder, rejecting the lure of destructive power.
Calm restored and resources scant—no staff or rod, only will and experience—Harry accepts the risk. He strides toward the hostile, storm‑charged house to face Victor on Victor’s ground, prepared to rely solely on skill and restraint.
Who Appears
- Harry DresdenDrives to Victor’s lake house, uses the Sight, rejects murderous temptation, and prepares to confront Victor unarmed.
- Victor Sells (Shadowman)Unseen within the house, gathers violet power to unleash a killing spell against Harry.
- Harry’s mother (implied presence)A sensed, feminine touch guiding Harry to his pentacle, helping him master his anger.
- MacOwner of the TransAm Harry drives to reach the Sells house.
- Donald MorganRecent adversary in Harry’s escape; his judgment fuels Harry’s momentary fury and defiance.