Chapter 13: The Coronation
Disclaimer: Still don't own anything
The day of the coronation came quicker than Harry was truly ready for. Harry had spent most of the previous day going over exactly what he would have to do during the Ceremony. It was very similar to the ones that muggle royals underwent. Harry knew that at the conclusion of this ceremony he would have to give a speech to the people of Avalon. Harry that he had never been the best at public speaking. However, He knew that this was one of the responsibilities that he would have to undertake. He only hoped that he did not make a fool of himself.
Hermione who now having permission from Harry had spent the morning inside the Great Library of Avalon. Hermione was overwhelmed by the sheer amount of books contained within the library. Hermione who had taken it upon herself to research every aspect of the House of Pendragon. Hermione had learned that the Kings of Avalon had direct access over the magic of Avalon. They were living embodiments of the Holy Isle. She was once again taken back by the amount of power that Harry would wield. She was determined to learn as much about Harry's potential in an effort to help him. As Hermione was lost within the pages of the ancient tomes she did not here Sorian enter the library.
"I see his Majesty was correct you are lost within the library." Sorian said with a slight chuckle.
"Sorian, This place is amazing. I have never seen a library like this before." Hermione said almost giddy.
"I'm glad you like it Milady. I am here though to escort you back to your chambers so you can get ready for the Coronation." Sorian said
With that Hermione returned to her chambers were she found Celeste waiting for her with a selection of different robes and gowns. While Hermione was getting ready Harry who's wardrobe was much simpler was sitting in his chambers preparing himself mentally.
"Darius, Are you sure I am ready for this. I have studied what you have given me about what I have to do. I am just not sure." Harry said nervously.
"Your Majesty, You have passed the Trials of Excalibur only the true King could do that. The people will love you for your courage, your strength, and most of all your heart." Darius said confidently.
With that Harry began to walk towards the entrance hall where he was supposed to board a coach to take him to the Temple of Avalon. When Harry stepped out of his chamber he looked over to Hermione's chamber.
"She will meet with at the ball following the Coronation. She will have to sit with the rest of the royal court at the actual ceremony." Darius said
With that Harry went with his entourage to the coach that would take them to great Temple. When Harry finally boarded the coach the butterfly's that were circling his stomach suddenly seemed to multiply. The coach ride was a long one as the temple was on the other side of the island. Harry had never been inside of a cathedral or any church for that matter, but when he saw the exterior of the great temple ever photo or painting he had ever seen was instantly put to shame. The Temple of Avalon was a massive tower with obelisks on the four corners of the building marking the North, South, East, and West. As Harry approached the tower he saw the roads were lined with thousands of people cheering at their new monarch. The looks on the people could only be described as pure joy. Many of the people looked as if they had waited all night just to catch a glimpse of the new King. The looks of the people was at the very least heartwarming. Slowly the butterfly's began to fade from his stomach. Harry started to become more at peace.
When Harry arrived at the entrance he was met by the council who had gathered in front of the great Temple.
"Welcome your Majesty to the Temple of Avalon" Sorian said with a deep bow.
Harry returned the bow with a slight nod of his head, and followed the Arch-Mage into the great temple. Harry for walked with the confidence of a man twice his age. No longer the boy he was when he first stepped upon the shores of Avalon. He was now a King; proven through the Trials of Excalibur. He knew that this was the last step he had to make before he could fully claim the title of King.
As Harry walked through the ancient halls of the Temple he was struck with how beautiful it was on the inside. The entire Temple was made out of the same type of Marble that the Palace was. However unlike in the palace instead of long gone Kings. Here he saw statues of not only the great Kings, but of Woman. Inside this place the High Priestess' of Avalon were Honored. They were represented not as subordinates to the Kings, but as equals. For every statue of a King there was one of a High Priestess. Harry through his connection could feel the power of Avalon more here than in any other place that he had been to. It was almost as if this place was the center of Avalon's Magic. Harry was brought to a enormous set of double doors. On each door was the seal of Avalon. The seal which was amazingly simple in comparison to the great seal of the House of Pendragon was only a crescent moon. This took nothing away from power the symbol represented.
"Your Majesty we are ready." Sorian said to the young King. With a nod of his head the great doors opened and Harry proceeded inside
Hermione who had arrived only a few moments earlier found herself waiting with the other members of the royal court. Which included several wives and husbands of the council. The temples main chamber was enormous. Easily four times the size of the great hall of Hogwarts. Hermione imagined that it would have to as even with its enormous size the chamber was packed. Hermione was amazed that so many people lived on the mysterious island. This was not mentioning the legions of people outside on Harry procession route. Hermione who had found herself about to make small talk with a young blonde witch who appeared to be about her age was interrupted when she heard the unmistakable sounds of the royal trumpets playing.
It was then that great doors to the chamber opened and she got her first glimpse of Harry. Of course she had seen Harry dressed up for the Yule ball in his dress robes. This was something entirely different. Hermione was a loss for words as she stared at the man who had been her best friend for so long. Harry walked in wearing the most impressive set of armor was the best way to describe it. Parts of his clothing looked like wizard robes. Instead of a set of inner robes Harry wore a armor. The armor was scaled. It was a brilliant silver color. So bright that Hermione knew that it could not be just silver. It had to be a type of dragon armor. On top of the armor Harry wore a large outer robe without sleeves and they had a long series of platinum runes running down the edges of the robes. Under his armor he wore a black long sleeve shirt. Attached to his hip was a sword. It wasn't just any sword though. Even inside of its scabbard Hermione could recognize it as Excalibur. The sword of Kings. It was this single thing that placed any doubt that Hermione had that Harry was in fact the King of Avalon out of her head.
As Harry approached the center alter the Priestess of Avalon filed in and stood on the raised platform. In the center was a woman of striking beauty. This woman like the others wore a crescent tattoo on their heads. Unlike the others she wore a set of robes that had a series of runes much like Harry's running down the edges all the way to the ground. The gathered watched as their King approached the center of the chamber. Then Harry stopped at the base of the platform and waited.
" I am Vivian High Priestess of Avalon. Who here holds claim to the throne of Avalon." Vivian said in a voice laced with power
"I ,Harold of the House of Pendragon do so claim the throne as it is my right of birth." Harry said with confidence.
" The Throne of Avalon is can not just be claimed by the right of birth. What makes you worthy to sit upon her." Vivian asked.
"I have faced the Trials of Excalibur and was found worthy of the mighty sword. By Excalibur I claim the throne and power of Avalon." Harry said as he unsheathed the sword. When Harry removed the mighty sword an invisible wind began to blow threw the chamber. As Harry began to channel the power of Avalon threw the legendary sword.
"Excalibur and Avalon have found you worth come forward Harold of Pendragon" Vivian said as Harry stepped forward to the High Priestess.
"Kneel" Vivian commanded the young King
"For countless centuries the Kings of Avalon have protected the inhabitants of this island and all those who have asked for it. Do you Harold of Pendragon swear upon Excalibur to protect the weak, to seek justice in their names, and hold safe the power of Avalon with your very life." The High Priestess said
"I swear by mighty Excalibur." Harry said as he handed Excalibur to Vivian who in turn held the blade in front of her face.
As Vivian held the sword two other priestess approached the pair. One of the pair was holding the crown of Avalon. The crown was a magnificent piece of craftsmanship. Far different than the British royal crown. The Crown of Avalon made of Platinum with a series of diamonds going around the band. In the front was jewel more beautiful than any diamond that Harry had ever seen. The jewel itself gave off a glow. At first Harry thought hat perhaps it was a trick of the light then as the Priestess approached he could see that it was in fact coming off of the strange jewel. The other was carring an orb. The orb much like the crown gave off its own illumination. It was simple yet magnificent at the same time.
"The Crown of Avalon passed down from the great King Arthur is a symbol of your power." Vivian said as the crown floated onto Harry's head.
"The Orb of Light a symbol of the Power of Avalon. Passed down from the gods themselves." Vivian said as the orb floated into Harry's left hand.
"Finally Excalibur, Yours by rite. With Excalibur you will have the strength to bring Justice and Protect the weak. I name you Harold I, King of Avalon, Defender of the Commonwealth, Guardian of the Faith. God Save the King!" Vivian said with convection.
"God Save the King" The entire audience echoed in a voice that felt like it would shake the very foundation.
"Arise King Harold and meet your people." Vivian said
With that Harry stood and turned to the smiling faces of all those gathered. Harry was unable to hide the joy he was feeling at that very moment. As Harry turned he could hear only the deafening roars of cheers. The attendants retook the Orb of Light from Harry, and returned it to the Temples Inner Sanctum. No longer able to control joy she was feeling Hermione rushed forward and embraced Harry in hug that was truly bone crushing. Not caring who was watching or how it might look. Harry returned the hug in all earnest. He then took hold of her hand walked down the aisle with all of the people cheering around him. When they reached the Temples entrance Harry and Hermione reluctantly parted ways. As Hermione was whisked away to prepare for the ball Harry stepped out to the legion of adoring subjects that awaited the words of their King.
" People of Avalon I stand before you today as your King. Yesterday, I would have considered myself an Englishman. Today I stand before you as an Avalonian. It is with this thought that today I pledge to you that the evils of Voldemort and his campaign of Terror will be fought in the name of every Avalonian who before me has given their life to protect which we all know to be just. That every being wither human or not is equal. We must stand united together in wake of terror. We must be the light" The words that Harry spoke dripped with power and influence. The crowds reaction was amazing. Harry knew that no matter the hardships that would follow the people of Avalon would. With the crowd cheering Harry stepped into the royal coach and headed towards the palace to make preparations for the ball.
Throughout Avalon the people celebrated the coronation of their new sovereign. Everywhere in Avalon balls and parties were the order of the day. The Royals celebrations of Avalon were unique in the way they made their guest lists. Every citizen was invited to the royal ball. Of course only so many could be admitted, but even for those not able to attend the one held at the palace. Others were held throughout Avalon. So that all that wished could participate. At these balls commoner rubbed elbows with nobles. It was events like this that made Avalon so special.
Harry had entered the ball alone. He had wanted to wait for Hermione instead Darius had insisted that Harry meet her at the ball. According to Darius Hermione would require a bit more preparations before the ball. Harry who of course couldn't imagine what Hermione would have to prep for simply nodded his head proceeded to the Royal Ball room.
When Harry entered he saw that everywhere in the room were floating candles and small orbs glowing ever so softly. The floor appeared to be made of water. It was of course an illusion that much like the one in the Great Hall. It made the guests appear as if they were dancing upon water. Harry was announced and began to make the rounds. After almost an hour of mingling speaking with not only important government officials; he was also seen speaking with members of the general public who had been fortunate enough to get tickets to the ball being held inside the palace. As a gentle waltz was being played it was then that Harry glanced at the doors and saw her.
As Hermione walked in the great hall every eye was on her. The royal announcer called for her arrival. After that moment every male in the great ball room had their eyes fixed upon the beautiful young lady who had just entered. Hermione wore what could only be described as the most magnificent dress that anyone had ever seen. It was a very simple silver color that hugged her curves in just the right places. She wore long white gloves that reached to her elbows. On her head she was a simple tiara with a simple crest in the center. The crest signifying that she was the Lady of the House of Pendragon. While everyone stared none where more taken than the young King who was bonded to the young lady. To say that Harry was transfixed would be an understatement.
"I do say the wait was worth it wouldn't you your Majesty." Darius said snickering at the young King who was a loss for words. Harry unable to actual form words simply nodded. With that Darius gently pushed Harry in the direction of Hermione.
" You look beautiful" Harry said as he approached from the side startling Hermione
"Harry….I mean your Majesty thank you I am sorry I am late, but Celeste said she wouldn't stop until she was satisfied." Hermione said laughing
"Well, Milady may I have the pleasure of a dance" Harry said mimicking Hermione's formal tone.
"Indeed you may" Hermione said as the two swept off into the center of the ball.
As the young pair danced it was easy to see that at that moment they were the only two in the room for each other. Many of the single woman who had hoped for a chance to dance with the young Kings hopes were dashed that night. Anyone watching could plainly see that the Kings heart belonged to another. Then as the music slowed Harry motioned for Hermione to follow him out to the veranda overlooking the ocean. With a simple nod Hermione followed.
" Wow Harry it is so beautiful out here" Hermione said as she looked out to sea.
"Yes, The most beautiful sight I have ever seen" Harry said looking not at the ocean, but at Hermione who turned her head just in time to see Harry staring at her instead of the scene before them.
"Harry…." Hermione said loosing her voice slightly unable to speak above a whisper.
At that same moment Harry inched his head towards Hermione's. Her soft lips shinning ever so slightly in the moon light. Then a moment later Harry and Hermione's lips met. The response was instant. A gentle wind began to blow around the two young lovers. Harry felt Hermione's heart beat quicken. He could feel the gentle breeze blowing across her exposed skin as the magic that the two shared became one. Lost in each others emotions the love struck pair didn't hear the foot steps of a third approaching them.
"emmh….I am sorry to intrude your Majesty, but an urgent matter of state has transpired that needs your immediate attention." Darius said almost shameful of having to interrupt the moment.
Reluctantly the two separated. Then with a slight gesture Harry took a piece of parchment into his hand and began to read.
From: The Ministry of Magic; The Department of Magical Law Enforcement
To: Harold James Potter, Unknown location
It is my duty to inform you that the Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge, has signed out a warrant for the Arrest of Harold James Potter. The charges are as follows:
Violation of the reasonable restriction of underage magic use.
Violation of the Wizarding Secrecy Statue.
Kidnapping of Ms. Hermione Jane Granger, a minor
Mr. Potter a hearing will be held on this matter on 5 August before the Wizegamot. You may of course surrender yourself to the ministry or any Auror. If you fail to appear for the hearing it will be held in your absence and you will of course have no opportunity to answer the charges brought before you.
Amelia Bones
Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement
Hermione simply stared at Harry trying to read the mans emotions as she had been able to do so often. He simply stood there rereading the note that Darius had just given him. Then in a moment of pure rage Hermione saw Harry's eyes flash with white energy and could hear and feel the crackle of magic around him.
"Harry what is it…What did the note say." Hermione pleaded to Harry who snapped his head towards her and instantly calmed.
"The ministry is charging me with use of underage magic, violating the secrecy statue, and the kidnapping of you." Harry said with bitterness
"What! How can they do that. You were trying to save my life. I mean by Merlin you were attacked. What were you supposed to do just stand there. As far as the kidnapping goes if you hadn't taken me I would have died. What is the Minister playing at. Darius surely this is some kind of mistake." Hermione said almost as angry as Harry.
"I'm afraid not Milady. This was delivered to Gringotts about an hour ago. It is standard procedure that in the event that official documents aren't collected they are placed within the recipients vault. If not for that I am sure they would have used this opportunity to hold a trial without you present." Darius said
"Why would they want to do this I mean this makes no sense." Hermione said
"It makes perfect sense…Dumbledore set this up. He had to have. He is hoping that if he appears and saves me yet again. It will provide him with the angle to bring me back under his control. I am not going to play into this. Assemble the council. I want to know what my options are." Harry commanded.
With that Darius bowed and departed leaving the two young lovers alone again.
"I don't like this Harry Dumbledore surely has a plan to get you back within the hands of the Order. This can't be it. Maybe if I just tell them about what happened." Hermione said
"I don't think they would listen. We will meet with the council and together we will come up with something." Harry holding Hermione close.
While Harry and Hermione went to meet with the council. Another type of meeting was taking place in Number 12 Grimmauld Place.
"Professor the Ministry has filed charges against Harry with a hearing set for the 5th of August." Tonks said
"I know my dear. We must prepare I am sure that I will be able to get the charges dismissed against Harry. The important thing is that we must take him into custody for his own protection. Alone I am sure Voldemort will be able to go after him. No matter what is said at the hearing no matter how farfetched it sounds we must return Harry hear. I fear we may end up having to fight Harry here." Dumbledore said to the gathered members.
"Surely not Albus, I can't believe that Harry would ever fight us." Molly said with a shocked look on her face.
"I believe that Mr. Potter has contracted with Hit Wizards to offer him some kind of protection. We all know though that Hit Wizards are going to be no match against Voldemort if he decides to attack him personally. No the only safe place for Harry is here. Well, If that is all my friends I have a matter that I must discuss with Severus alone." Dumbledore said and with that all of the members of the Order began to make their way out of the room.
"He is up to something. Something is just not right. How would Harry who has very little knowledge be able to contract Hit Wizards" Remus said to Tonks who was also looking pensive.
"Something else. The warrant for Harry's arrest was not sworn out of the Auror's Office. For a charge so serious as Kidnapping we would normally be the ones handling the investigation. This came from Fudge's Office directly. We had nothing to do with it. Dumbledore would have been informed first since it is going before the entire Wizegamot." Tonks looking at Remus.
"You understand that no matter what Harry must be returned here. I don't care what you must do to accomplish this, but under no circumstances is he to return with his guards." Dumbledore said.
"Of course headmaster. Several of the new Order members will be able to accomplish this. What then I am sure that Potter will try some foolish stunt." Snape said.
"Once he is hear we can Legimency to get the desired results we want. I can not imagine him being strong enough to fight against our combined efforts." Dumbledore said.
With that the plan was set into motion. Both parties would be surprised of how the events of the 5th would play themselves out.
A/N: Not my best chapter, but I wanted to get all of the background information out of the way so that the next chapter can flow a little better. As always reviews are appreciated.