Chapter Thirty-Seven

On a frigid Tuesday, half a dozen protesters appear outside Harry Dresden’s castle with anti-occult signs. From the roof, Will and Fitz observe with Harry, while Basil warns that frightened crowds have destroyed wizard strongholds before. Harry orders everyone to stay cool and out of sight unless hostility arises.

To reduce tension, Harry and Fitz set up a table offering free hot chocolate and hand warmers, signaling goodwill without confrontation. The protesters keep their distance and leave by nightfall without accepting anything, but the scene ends quietly and without escalation.

Over a week later, Harry meets Michael, Sanya, and Butters at the Carpenters’ firepit. Sanya has returned from Thailand; Butters, still using a cane, reports strong recovery. Michael reveals he has monitored Harry’s wellbeing while overseeing crews working on Harry’s home.

Harry addresses the Battle of Chicago, admitting he was not himself after Karrin’s death, apologizing for attacking his friends and nearly murdering Rudolph, and thanking them for stopping him. Sanya frames it as wartime chaos but trusts Harry won’t repeat it; Butters confirms no hard feelings, and Harry shows the lingering Sword burn. The conversation shifts to teasing about Lara, signaling comfort and restored trust.