Harry Potter and the Deep Freeze

The Crown is Revealed

The morning of the presentation dawned cold but bright, the sky above the dome painted in soft shades of gold and pink. The townsfolk had worked tirelessly through the night, transforming the Great Hall into a space worthy of the momentous occasion. Long banners hung from the enchanted ceiling, representing the sanctuary's colors—green for growth, gold for leadership, and silver for unity.

Every seat in the hall was filled, the residents murmuring quietly as they waited for Harry's arrival. On the raised platform at the front of the hall, the crown rested in its velvet-lined case, glinting faintly under the floating candles. Thomas Bramwell stood nearby, flanked by Marianne Deering and Eliott, the apprentice.

Harry's Arrival

Unaware of the townsfolk's plan, Harry entered the hall flanked by Neville, Draco, and Luna.

"Why's the whole sanctuary gathered?" Harry whispered to Neville as he took in the sight of the packed hall.

Neville shrugged, though his expression was unusually neutral. "Guess we'll find out."

The moment Harry stepped onto the platform, the murmurs in the hall quieted, and Thomas stepped forward.

"Harry Potter," Thomas began, his voice steady and strong. "You built this sanctuary. You saved us when the world froze, and you've led us with courage and wisdom ever since. We're here today to honor you—not because you asked for it, but because you deserve it."

Harry blinked, caught completely off guard. "Thomas, I—"

"Please, Harry," Marianne interrupted gently, stepping forward. "Let us speak."

The Speech

Thomas continued, his gaze unwavering. "You didn't just give us a safe place to live. You gave us hope. You united us—wizards, witches, Squibs, Muggles—all of us working together to build a future."

Marianne nodded, her voice warm. "We've faced challenges together, and each time, you've led us through them. You've shown us what it means to be a protector, a guide, and a friend."

Eliott, the apprentice, held up the case containing the crown. "And so, we decided it was time to make it official. Harry, you're more than just a leader. You're our king. And this crown is our way of saying thank you—for everything."

The Crown's Presentation

Thomas opened the case, revealing the crown. Its golden band shone in the candlelight, the green and silver accents gleaming with subtle magic. The golden crystal at its center glowed faintly, a testament to the sanctuary's unity and strength.

The hall was silent as Thomas approached Harry, holding the crown with reverent hands.

Harry stared at it, his mind racing. He'd never sought power or titles, and the idea of being crowned felt almost overwhelming. But as he looked out over the crowd—the people he had worked so hard to protect—he saw only hope and trust in their eyes.

"Harry," Thomas said quietly, his voice meant for Harry alone. "This isn't about power. It's about gratitude. Let us honor you."

Acceptance

After a long pause, Harry nodded, his throat tight with emotion. "Thank you," he said, his voice steady despite the weight of the moment.

Thomas placed the crown gently on Harry's head, stepping back as the crowd erupted into cheers and applause.

Harry turned to face them, his heart full. "I don't know what to say," he admitted, his voice carrying over the noise. "But I do know this: I wouldn't be here without all of you. This sanctuary isn't just mine—it's ours. And together, we'll face whatever comes next."

The cheers grew louder, filling the Great Hall with a sense of unity and celebration.

A New Chapter

As the festivities continued, Harry found himself surrounded by friends and well-wishers. Neville clapped him on the shoulder, grinning.

"Didn't see that coming, did you?"

"Not at all," Harry admitted, laughing softly.

Draco smirked. "Well, 'Your Majesty,' I hope this means you'll finally let someone else handle the tedious paperwork."

Harry rolled his eyes. "Don't push your luck, Malfoy."

Luna smiled serenely. "You look quite regal, Harry. The crown suits you."

Harry touched the crown lightly, still getting used to its weight. "It's not about the crown," he said quietly. "It's about them. All of them."

Luna nodded. "And they chose you, Harry. That means something."

The day ended with a feast, the Great Hall filled with laughter and celebration. As Harry sat at the head of the table, the weight of the crown no longer felt heavy.

Instead, it felt like a promise—a bond between him and the people he had sworn to protect.

And for the first time, Harry allowed himself to believe that he could fulfill that promise.