CHAPTER TWENTY:
THE DUKE OF CHARENWELL
SUNDAY, JUNE 30, 1996 - Potter Castle, Pottersport.
The carriages passed through huge, cheering crowds of people that seemed to fill the inside courtyard that Harry was certain was larger than a Quidditch Pitch. They rode up to the huge tower which Remus explained had been the Duke's residence when the Castle was the home of the Duke centuries ago. The carriages stopped at the steps leading to a large, raised plaza before the huge, ancient doors into the Castle proper. Several witches and wizards, all in formal robes were waiting there for the procession. The carriages stopped and Elves in Potter Robes came forward to act as footman and help the party from the carriages. Harry, it turned out, was the last to step down and he followed the others up the steps to where the dignitaries waited.
He and his ladies were introduced to the Chancellor of the Duchy, the Honorable Albert Moore as well as all seven members of the Council. In addition, there was a Sir Stephen Blaire who was introduced as the Ambassador from the Queen of England and a few other ambassadors from Magical France, Italy, Spain, Germany and the United States. Harry was told that "foreign affairs" were mostly handled from the Foreign Ministry under the Lord Mayor, but as Duke he might be expected to make State visits from time to time - although not anytime soon.
A loud fanfare played and the crowed grew relatively silent. From what Remus told Harry earlier, he knew the Investiture was about to begin.
"Good people of Charenwell," Remus spoke in a significantly and probably magically amplified voice, "as Lord Mayor of the Duchy of Charenwell, and pursuant to our Charter of 1217, it is my honor and duty to confer this realm to its new and rightful Sovereign!
"Lord Charles V, Twenty-Sixth Duke of Charenwell served his realm and people faithfully and with honor from his investiture on December 15th, 1979 until his tragic and untimely passing from our company on August 23rd, 1988. Lord Charles' son, James Charles Potter had left these lands and tragically was felled along with his wife and my friend Lily on October 31st, 1981. The irony of this date is not lost on us, for it is the date when, in 1217, the Duchy became independent from the rest of Greater Britain. James Charles was survived by a son, Harry James, born July 31st, 1980. Alas, James died on foreign soil and Outsiders ignoring both their own and our laws deigned to conspire to keep young Harry on such foreign soil. Lord Charles, myself and others known and unknown to you all, have worked tirelessly since the tragic loss of the Heir to return Harry to his Country. His whereabouts and even his condition remained unknown to us, except to say we knew he was alive, until September 1991 when Harry followed his father and grandfathers to attend magical School at Hogwarts.
"As Lord Mayor and Steward, I petitioned Greater Britain for the immediate return of the Heir to his Country following the completion of his first year at that school. Said Petition was denied without explanation. As you are all aware, in 1993 I accepted a posting at the school Harry attended. This was with the intent of returning Harry home. I figured, wrongly, that as the school is run by the head of Greater Britain's Wizengamot, I might be able to influence him to see that his government followed the law. When our Petition was again denied without explanation, I, joined by our friend Lord Sirius Black, decided more forceful measures were necessary.
"The plan was set to bring our Heir home this summer. It was Lord Black's plan as he had taken over the position as the Heir's magical guardian by virtue of the fact that Harry James Potter is a member of the Ancient and Noble House of Black and as Head of such House, Lord Black's claim to guardianship could not be contested. Regrettably, we cannot thank Lord Black personally for his valiant efforts on behalf this Realm and our people. Lord Black fell in battle a little over two weeks ago, a battle in which I fought as well. Also fighting with us that terrible day were three who are with us today: Madam Dora Tonks Black, Lady Hermione Potter and our Heir Harry James Potter. All fought with the skill and courage we have come to expect from those who defend this Realm and people.
"Pursuant to our Charter, it is my duty to turn the proceedings over to the Chancellor for validation of Harry James Potter's rights of office."
"As Chancellor," the Honorable Albert Moore said, "and as High Court Justice of the Peace, I make the following findings of fact:
"First, that Harry James Potter is indeed before us and is indeed the eldest living male descendent of Lord Charles David Potter, the last Duke of Charenwell;
"Second, that a review of accounts conducted in the interest of House Potter into the Stewardship of this Realm by the Lord Mayors from the date of Lord Charles passing to the present revealed no cause for investigation that might delay any proceedings;
"Third, that more than one year has passed since the date of Lord Charles' passing;
"Fourth, that said Harry James Potter by the Will of Lord Charles David Potter, is indeed the designated heir and has not been either disowned or disqualified;
"Fifth, that Harry James Potter is aged but fifteen years;
"Sixth, that Harry James Potter was the legal and magical Ward of Lord Sirius Orion Black;
"Seventh, that Lord Black passed away this June 14th last,
"Eighth, pursuant to the Will of Lord Sirius Orion Black, no successor guardian was named; and
"Ninth, by separate instrument duly filed, recorded and validate within the governments of Greater Britain and Charenwell, Harry James Potter was legally emancipated and legally may attain his lands and titles as an adult."
"I now make the following findings of law:
"First, that Harry James Potter is the natural and legal heir of Lord Charles David Potter;
"Second, that the requisite year and one day has passed since the death of Lord Charles David Potter, Twenty-Sixth Duke of Charenwell; and
"Third, that Harry James Potter is an adult and competent to ascend to his lands and titles. Based upon these findings, I find that the conditions of ascension as governed by the Charter and Laws of this Duchy have been met and Harry James Potter may and should be invested as the Twenty-Seventh Duke of Charenwell at the earliest possible convenience of the Lord Mayor and Steward. Lord Mayor?"
A huge cheer rose from the crowd as Harry and Hermione were told to join hands and take the center of the stage, as it were. Remus stood just in front of them facing the crowd.
"As Lord Mayor and Steward, it is my duty, honor and privilege to carry out the requirements of the Charter, Order of the Court and will of the people." Remus then turned to Harry and Hermione and he draped a large, intricately carved and bejeweled chain over Harry's shoulders centering a jeweled replica medallion of the Potter Seal. As he did so, he said: "I hereby proclaim thee Lord Harry James Potter, Fifty-First Head of the Ancient and Noble House of Potter dating to Sir Gallahad Potter of the Court of King Arthur and further proclaim thee as the Duke Harry the First, Twenty-Seventh Duke of Charenwell!"
A smaller matching necklace was then placed hanging from Hermione's neck. "The former Miss Hermione Jane Granger of Loughton, Essex, the United Kingdom, having bonded with Lord Potter this June 23rd past, as his wife and Consort, I proclaim you Lady Hermione Jane Potter, Duchess of Charenwell!"
There was another loud cheer.
"As my second to last official act as Steward of Charenwell, I am proud to present Lord Harry the First and Lady Hermione, the Duke and Duchess of Charenwell! Long live the Duke!"
Remus then turned to the bewildered teens and said in a non-amplified voice. "It is customary to kiss the Bride at this time, Harry." The looks on the faces of the young Potters was priceless, but they did as they were told. Oddly, Harry found it relaxing.
As the cheering subsided after some minutes , Remus's magically amplified voice announced: "And as my last act as Steward, I turn this ceremony over to Sir Stephen Blaire, Ambassador from the Court of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second! Sir Stephen?"
"Thank you, Lord Mayor," the elderly gentleman they had been introduced to earlier as the Ambassador said. He walked forward and to the surprise of Harry, Hermione and others drew a wand. He then conjured four large, raised cushions: one was in front of where Harry stood and another in front of Hermione, with the other two next to Hermione's.
"Her Majesty sends the Duke and Duchess and the people of Charenwell Her greetings and regrets that prior engagements have prevented her from enjoying your company and this momentous day. She was present at the Investiture of Lord Charles and has visited your lovely realm on many occasions dating back to the Second World War.
"She particularly regrets her inability to attend today because recent events have compelled her to recognize certain of her subjects for their conspicuous heroism and steadfast devotion in defense of her people, Muggle and magical alike. As you all are undoubtedly aware, when a subject of Her Majesty's Kingdom distinguishes themselves in the eyes of their Queen and countrymen it is customary to recognize that service, be it in war or peace. The highest honor is induction into one of the Orders of Knighthood. While most know of two such Orders, there are in fact three, the latter being reserved for magicals who have rendered service to Her Majesty and her people. I am one of a handful of members of that Order, the oldest Order in the British Isles and one which has survived from when the Britons regained control of England following the fall of the Roman Empire.
"There are several individuals who fall into this category, four of whom are with us today. Will Miss Nymphadora Tonks and Lord Mayor Remus John Lupin please join Lord Harry James Potter and Lady Hermione Jane Potter nee Granger?"
Remus and Dora took their places beside Harry and Hermione before the Ambassador continued.
"By Order of the Prime Minister of Great Britain and with the Blessings and Thanks of the Parliament and People, for courage and intrepidity in magical combat against superior forces of the Enemy of the Realm, and despite lack of training and experience, the four of you participated in a great victory over the forces bent upon the enslavement of Britain. Without regards for your lives, you fought and defeated a veteran force of terrorists and in so doing saved countless lives. In honor of your courage and achievements, you are each awarded the Order of the British Empire!"
The Ambassador then pinned the medals on all four of them.
"Will the four of you please kneel?" They complied.
"By the wishes of Her Majesty Elizabeth the Second, by the grace of God Queen of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith, for your loyal Service to her Realm and the British People…" The Ambassador now held a sword in both hands. He walked over to Nymphadora first. As he spoke the words, he tapped her right shoulder, left shoulder and then the right again. "For God, Queen and Country, I dub thee Dame Nymphadora Tonks… For God, Queen and Country, I dub thee Sir Remus John Lupin… For God Queen and Country, I dub thee Lady Dame Hermione Jane Potter… For God, Queen and Country, I dub thee Lord Sir Harry James Potter." The Ambassador handed the sword to Harry. "A gift in memory of this occasion, Milord Sir Harry from Her Majesty."
"Thanks," Harry said his head spinning.
The Ambassador then draped a burgundy colored sash over Harry that hung from his right shoulder across his body. He hung similar sashes on all the others.
"Arise," he said to them all. "People of Charenwell, hear! Your own friends and neighbors have been honored! Welcome the newest Knights of the Order of the Round Table! May they go forth into the Realm with Her Majesty's blessings!"
"Oh my God!" Harry exclaimed quietly. Hermione, for once, was speechless.
The Ambassador now stood before Harry, his voice still amplified. "Milord Sir Harry," he said, "there was one Charenwell resident who should have been here with you today, but alas he fell in that battle. I hand you now the Order of the British Empire, the sash symbolizing induction into the Order of the Knights of the Round Table awarded posthumously to Lord Sirius Orion Black. And I've been further asked to hand you these documents." He then handed two papers to Harry. "The first is the Appeal to the House of Lords regarding his unfortunate incarceration. His arrest has been declared illegal and without sufficient evidence and Her Majesty's government has demanded compensation on his behalf for his unlawful imprisonment. The second is a pardon from the Prime Minister and Her Majesty for his self-executed release from prison and all crimes for which he stood falsely accused."
"Thanks," was all Harry could say. He was doing his best not to cry. The Ambassador bowed to Harry and then returned to the back of the stage.
"Harry," Remus said. "It is customary to give a brief speech to the people at this time." Harry paled, but then nodded.
"Hi," Harry said to the vast crowd. "I am Harry." The crowd cheered their new Duke. When they quieted down, Harry continued. "Not very good at giving speeches," he said. "So forgive me if this one's not so impressive. I know I have a lot of titles now, but you can all call me Harry. It's the only title I have that I don't find embarrassing.
"There are some things about me you all should know that have not been mentioned today. I'd rather you hear them from me first. First of all, where have I been these past fourteen years? The answer is that Dumbledore sent me to live with my mother's Sister and her family. They are Muggles. Not very nice ones either. The best thing about finally coming home is I will never have to see them again.
"Second, in addition to all the other titles that have been bandied about this morning, I have one more. When my Godfather Lord Sirius Black died, in addition to emancipating me he also named me as his heir in his Will and I have inherited the bulk of his estate and his title. I am also Lord Black, the Forty-Seventh Head of the Ancient and Noble House of Black. Rest assured though, I was born a Potter. My only responsibility as Lord Black is to have a son to carry on the line. My responsibilities as Lord Potter are to my family, my Country and my people."
A huge cheer arose from the crowd.
"With that in mind, I would like to introduce you to my family," Harry continued. "First and foremost, there's my best friend, the love of my life and my wife and Consort, Hermione." Hermione walked up and joined him, waiving to the cheering crowd and genuinely smiling, but had Harry asked, she was smiling because of him.
"When I inherited the Potter properties," Harry continued, "well, as a Muggle raised wizard you can imagine my surprise when I learned I had inherited a Concubine." The crowd laughed. "You might imagine my shock when I learned who she was. Many of you have known her for years and years. She taught at your Primary School before accepting a position at Hogwarts, which was where I first met her. She was my Transfiguration Professor and one of the best on staff, she was the Head of my House at School and gave me loads of detentions…" The crowd laughed. "…and she was Deputy Headmistress. She told me recently that she is retiring to devote her efforts to me and my people. May I introduce my Wife in all but law: Minerva McGonagall Potter." There was a huge cheer as Minerva stepped forward and joined Harry and Hermione.
"From the Black Estate, I inherited two Concubines. One is known to many of you and many a child here today was brought into this world by her. As many of you remember, Lord Black lived here for a number of years and this lovely woman became a Healer and helped out at the hospital whenever she could. She was on staff at St. Mungo's in London, but has left that position to devote her time to the health of mothers and children here in Charenwell. And it's a good thing too. I intend to allow all of my ladies to have children - as many as they want. So it would seem I might be one of her major customers." The crowd laughed again. Harry felt he was warming to this. "May I introduce my Wife in all but law, Dr. Healer Mallory Grant Black." The cheers were not as loud as for Minerva but still it was very enthusiastic.
"From Lord Black, I also inherited another lovely witch. I did not know Mallory - in any sense of the word…" the crowd laughed "… but I've considered this woman a friend for the last couple of years. She was an Auror, but is resigning to devote her considerable talents to the Duchy. May I present my Wife in all but law, Dora Tonks Black." The crowd did not know her, but applauded with enthusiasm.
"And last but not least," Harry continued, "the next two young ladies are a bit of an interesting story. Their father was aligned with House Black and the Death Eaters were leaning on him for money and threatening to kill his family if he did not pay or agree to sell his two oldest daughters to whom they thought would be the next Lord Black. Unfortunately, they assumed it was someone other than me. No one ever said Death Eaters had brains." The crowd laughed. "Anyway, when I learned of my new friends dilemma, I reluctantly bought his daughters. I also gave him and his remaining family a lot of money so they could move overseas and not be threatened by those prats again.
"I want you all to know that that's the kind of person I try to be. I will do anything to help my friends and family in need and that will not stop. May I introduce my wives in all but law, Daphne Greengrass Black and her sister Astoria Greengrass Potter." The crowd cheered this time as the two Greengrass sisters joined Harry and the others.
"A week ago I arrived here," Harry continued. "Prior to my arrival, I knew nothing about this. I knew only a little about my parents and nothing about my family or the legacy I would be expected to uphold and maintain. I knew nothing about Consorts or Concubines. I knew nothing about some of the more devious plots against me. I knew nothing about Heads of Houses. I knew nothing about Charenwell. As far as I can recall, I never even had heard of this before.
"Why? There are two Dark Wizards who want me dead. Both of them consider me a threat to their plans for the world. One, Voldemort, wants me dead because of a Prophecy which he believes means that I am the only one who can defeat him. The other, Dumbledore, wants me dead for that and a few other reasons. He wants to be glorified as the one who defeated Voldemort and that cannot happen if I defeat him and live. With that fame, he can then take over Greater Magical Britain and impose the same order upon it as Voldemort would. But, the real reason he wants me dead is to gain control of my Estate. I do not know if he knows about Charenwell, but if he knows he covets it because it is one thing he cannot have so long as I live and so long as I have heirs I control. Dumbledore, of course, would never want me to learn of this. Those brave souls who have worked to restore me to my proper place kept me in the dark as well, so as to deny this information to my enemies.
"A week ago, I knew none of this. It has been a steep learning curve.
"A week ago, I bonded with my Hermione and went to sleep that night with my love in my arms. I went to sleep and for the first time in my life I had a sense of family and of home. Home for me is where Hermione is - and that has probably been the case for years, even if I was too thick to realize it at the time. But Home can also be a place, a place where you want to be with your wife and where you want to raise your family.
"Yesterday, I finally had the chance to leave my studies and the Manor and start to see this wonderful land. In the course of my wanderings, I had the opportunity to meet many wonderful people. Compared to Outside, where I am either worshiped or reviled, here I am just another bloke, which is all I ever wanted to be. I spent time with families, shopkeepers and a bunch of blokes at a Pub and for once felt normal. Last night, when I finally went to sleep, I realized that not only was I home with my Hermione, I had finally found the home I had never known. And I thank all of you for that.
"I am finally home!" A cheer went up.
"But, while this is my home and will be forever, I like most of you have my concerns about what is happening Outside. A darkness is gathering and threatens to consume our Outside cousins. While we here are safe, while we here could be a beacon of light in that oncoming darkness, we are not immune from its ill effects. The one theme I have heard from my people is just how vulnerable we still are despite our wards.
"Before my Grandfather died, he heard your concerns and set out to remedy them. I learned of his plans only yesterday and now know they died with him, or at least they stopped moving forward without him. That ends today. By the fall of 1997, if not sooner, I intend to make my Grandfather's dream a reality. I wish to open here the greatest school of magic in all Britain, if not Europe and if not the world!" A huge cheer went up.
"The school will be open to all children of Charenwell, magical and non-magical alike. I leave it to the experts to figure that one out but as I see we do not segregate here on that level in our society, neither should we in our schools. Our magicals will learn math, science and literature while our non-magicals will learn about magic. It is this segregation that led our cousins to the hell they are facing. It will not happen here!" Another huge cheer went up.
"I wish to ask my Minerva who has over fifty years experience as an educator to take the lead in this task. She has taught both magical and non-magical courses and I cannot think of an educator more suited to this challenge. Minerva? Will you accept this challenge?"
"With honor, Milord," Minerva said.
"So there you have it. As my first act as Duke, I command that the Charles Potter Institute of Magical Studies be opened in this land for the benefit of our future generations! I will, of course, be the one paying for it."
There were loud cheers from the crowd, so loud that few heard Harry said "Thank you." thus ending his speech. Harry turned to Remus.
"That was a bit more than a few words," Remus said. "Good speech, by the way."
"Thanks."
"You really want to start that school?"
Harry nodded. "More than just for these people too. But there's not need to go into details today."
Remus nodded. "Harry, it is customary that the new Duke and his family dine separately from the other guests at the Investment Banquette. You will dine with a family of your choice, or one will be selected by lot. You have anyone in mind?" There was no way Harry could, Remus thought.
"Well, we had breakfast with Samantha Jones and her family," Harry said. "Don't think it'd be right to dine with them twice."
"So it's by lot then?"
Harry shook his head. "I came to the Castle to meet with Mick Jameson and his family. So, they're the ones who will dine with me."
Remus knew that Clarice had been adopted by a Jameson family. Perhaps these were distant relations. He really did not think a family from Charenwell would adopt a girl from the outside. Then again, it would explain why he could not find them. No, Remus decided, this was just a coincidence.
"As you command, Milord," Remus said earning a grimace from Harry. "If you and your ladies will follow me?"
Harry nodded and motioned to the others. Hermione soon took his arm as the others followed close behind. The doors to the castle had opened and Remus began to give them the "Five Knut" tour.
The upper floors of the tower contained the offices of the government. The Chancellor's office, office of the Chief Solicitor and courtroom were on the first floor, the Council Chambers and offices were on the second and the Lord Mayor and governmental departments had offices on the upper four floors as well as is what used to be the barracks. The Ground Floor, while it had been redecorated and modernized, was little different from when it served as the Duke's residence. It had the ballroom, the Great Banquette Hall, three reception rooms and the Grand and Private State Dining Rooms. Harry and his entourage were being led through the Ground Floor to the Private State Dining Room. Remus told them that the Private State Dining Room and balcony was the only room in the Castle that remained exclusive to the Duke and solely for his use.
The Private State Dining Room was about as large as the dining room in the Private Apartments at the Manor. The table could easily seat thirty people or more. The walls were covered with ancient tapestries depicting mythical or magical scenes. The back of the room was a series of arched windows flanking a large set of glass doors that led out to a balcony beyond. Remus explained that it was custom in nice whether for the Duke and his party to dine on the balcony, and as the weather was nice, that was where they would be dining.
When they walked out on the balcony, even Harry gasped at the view. While at the ground level of the Castle, the balcony was at least one hundred feet above the ground for the back of the Castle was along a bluff. It overlooked the town of Pottersport and they were higher than any of the buildings. Harry could see High Street slightly off to his right. He pointed out what he had seen the day before to the others. High Street was where the shops were located and Harry estimated it was twice as large as Diagon Alley, but it also sold a lot of non-magical items such as televisions and such. There were a few restaurants there as well as the Gringotts branch. He told them that High Street ran practically from the base of the bluff all the way to the waterfront and Front Street.
Remus described the town in greater detail and pointed out things Harry had not seen or noticed the day before. Front Street ran from the bluffs in the east to the harbor in the west and cut petty much through the center of the town. Another large road, Galahad Street, ran north to south, also through the middle of the town. Along Galahad Street there was a large building almost twice as tall as any of the others. This was Mistress Agnes Hospital. There were also two parks, one to the north and the other to the south of High Street. There were the Primary and Secondary Schools near High Street, a theater district that boasted six cinemas and one theater for live performances called the Opera House. There was also an art museum and the Library along with more shops and restaurants. He also pointed out the spires of St. Anne's Cathedral and St. Michael's, the two churches in the town. St. Anne's was Roman Catholic and St. Michael's was Church of England.
At the intersection of High and Galahad, there was the Public Floo Exchange and Owls Post Office. The Floo exchange needed explanation as there was nothing like it Outside. Most of the shops, restaurants and public buildings in Pottersport had floos for their workers but not for the public. The Floo system here was just like on the Outside, but if you wanted to go shopping or see a show, you came to the Public Exchange. The Public Exchange was also one of the only magical way for most people to leave the country. There were "International Floos" that connected into the British system. Only residents of Charenwell or persons granted leave by the Duke could use it. To the rest of the world, it either did not exist or was blocked by powerful wards. The only other way in or out of the Duchy for most people were Muggle means. Only the Duke, those magically bound to him, and those brought in by either could pass through the wards by other magical means.
"So there's no way Voldemort could ever have come here?" Harry asked.
"The only way Voldemort, his Death Eaters or anyone who means harm to you or this Country can cross the wards and live to see this side is as a prisoner or slave of the Duke," Remus replied.
"And Pettigrew? As a rat could he?"
"No," Remus said. "The Wards are ancient and powerful. They are blood and mind based. If you were born here, you can cross. Otherwise you cannot unless invited and even then, if you intend harm to the Duke, Country or any of its people, you will die at the ward line. The wards can penetrate any magical disguise including animagus forms."
"So, if I had been born here?"
"Voldemort would never have found you."
"But Harry would have to leave to go to Hogwarts," Hermione pointed out.
"Lord Charles plan for a school here was to have one opened before Harry turned eleven. The idea was once Harry entered the Wizarding world, Lord Charles would have come down on Dumbledore like Thor's Hammer and Harry would attend school here."
"And we would have never met," Hermione whimpered.
"Don't be so sure," Remus chuckled. "Lord Charles planned on declaring a Blood Feud against Dumbledore and any who supported him in his treatment of Harry. To avoid all out war, he was going to demand that all Muggle Born children attend school here. So you would have met."
"Harry?" Daphne asked, "is that what you're planning?"
"The Blood Feud or the Muggle Borns?" Harry asked in reply.
"Either. Both?"
"Don't know Blood Feuds," Harry admitted. "But yes, the thought of making the school open to Muggle Borns from Outside had crossed my mind."
"Why didn't you say that in your speech?" Hermione asked almost accusingly.
"Because I tried to keep the speech focused on Charenwell," Harry replied, "and as I have no idea how to proceed on that part of the plan, I felt announcing the school was more important that the scope of its enrollment. I need to talk to Minerva in depth to see if that scope is both feasible and how we can make it come about."
"Oh," Hermione relaxed. "That makes sense."
"I did foreshadow, though."
"How?"
"I meant it with my 'beacon of light' statement. We are safe here and from here we can become a beacon of light as the darkness descends. Exactly how though, that is a point to ponder."
"Just how big is this place," Harry asked as he looked out over the town.
"I thought we went over that," Remus said.
"Acres, crops and that sort yes. How many people live here? Do we even know? I've heard there hasn't been a proper census in a long time."
"That was true, Milord. "You grandfather and great-grandfather knew every resident of this land such that they felt a census was a waste of time and money. Once I knew that you would return here this summer, I ordered one. Its results are written on a magical parchment that updates the data whenever there is a change."
"A change?"
"Births, Deaths, new arrivals, children away at school, that sort of thing."
"So how many people are there?"
"Well, Milord, as of yesterday the town of Pottersport had a population of 9,273, Charlestown 1,610, Potter's Vineyard 868 and the rural areas 425. As far as we know no one died during the night and no new births were recorded, although we are expecting a few this coming week. Excluding you household, the population of the Estate stands at 12,176, excluding the Elves and the Goblins living beneath our Gringotts branch. Of that, 10,714 are magical and the rest are mostly non-magical families who moved here when their magical son or daughter married a Duchy citizen or remained here after the War."
"Do we know how are of secondary school age?"
Remus nodded. "This fall 1,168 young witches and wizards will attend magical schools."
"That's more than there are at Hogwarts," Hermione gasped. "And how many Muggle-Borns are out there?"
"Our estimates is that there are approximately 5,000 magic school ages children in greater Britain," Remus began.
"Are you saying most don't go to school?" Astoria asked.
"Actually most all do," Remus said looking at the surprised look on the faces of the young people. "You don't actually think Hogwarts is the only school of magic in the British Isles, do you?"
"It's not?" Daphne asked.
"There are five others," Remus said. "Two are in England and there's one each in Ireland, Scotland and Wales. There's St. George's Academy of Magic in London, The Prince Edward School of Sorcery in York, St. Andrew's School near Edinburgh, St. Patrick's College near Dublin and St. David's near Cardiff. St. George's, St. Andrew's and St. Patrick's have about twelve hundred students and the other two have around six hundred each."
"And how many of those are Muggle Borns?" Hermione asked.
"Statistically speaking," Minerva answered, "about one third of all witches and wizards are Muggle Borns."
"That would mean the school here would have to be able to accommodate over two thousand students total," Hermione said with surprise."
Remus nodded. "Lord Charles plan called for a student body of between 2,000 and 2,500."
"The logistics are daunting," Minerva said. "There's no magical school of that size anywhere that I am aware of."
"Lord Charles thought so too," Remus admitted. "His plan called for something more like a university. There would be between six and eight different colleges, each with their own faculty, dormitories for boarders, academic buildings, dining facilities and so on. The schools could be located on the same campus and by having separate schools, there could be athletic and other types of competitions between them."
"Kind of like Oxford," Hermione observed.
"That was the inspiration, yes," Remus agreed. "Oh, it seems your guests have arrived, Harry," Remus added. Harry looked and saw Mick Jameson, his wife, three blonde haired younger children and a girl about his age with black hair and green eyes that matched his own.
"Harry! That's her," Hermione whispered.
"I hope so," Harry whispered back. "Ah Mick!" Harry said walking over to the new arrivals, "glad you could make it!" Harry shook Mick's hand.
"You really didn't have to do this, Milord," Mick said apologetically.
"Nonsense," Harry replied. "The Lord Mayor told me I was allowed to invite one family to this luncheon and there are only two that I know of for certain: yours and my cousin Sam's and we had breakfast with her family this morning so there you go." Harry stepped over to Mick's wife. "And you must be the famous Maggie Marie," He said kissing the back of her hand. Have to play the Lord, he thought to himself.
"Milord," she replied and curtsied.
"Please, I prefer just Harry," Harry said. "Don't let the fancy suit fool you. I'm just as ordinary as anyone." It did not help that at least five of his ladies snickered when he said this.
"You must be Erin," Harry said to the smallest of the family as he gently shook her hand.
"Yeah."
"And you're Megan," he said to the older sister. She only managed to blush in reply.
"Making you Jason," Harry said shaking the boy's hand.
"Duh! I am the only boy," Jason snarked.
"Jason!" his mother exclaimed. "Manners!"
"Sorry," Jason replied.
"And that means you must be Clarice," Harry said shaking hands with his sister for the first time.
There seemed to be a look of recognition on her face for a moment, but she seemed to dismiss it. "I'm adopted," she said.
"Really?" Harry asked in mock surprise. "Do you always introduce yourself that way?"
"You were probably going to ask why I do not look anything like my parents or siblings," she said. "Many do."
"Actually," Harry said, "I was not."
"You weren't?"
Harry shook his head. "First of all it's rude and insensitive. But why ask a question when you already know the answer?"
"You already knew?"
Harry nodded. "Your father told me yesterday."
"Oh. Sorry."
"It's okay."
Harry then introduced the Jamesons to Remus and Harry's ladies before inviting everyone to have a seat.
"You have six wives?" Jason asked in surprise.
"Something like that," Harry said.
"When did you get married?" Megan asked.
"Hermione became my Consort a week ago. Arguably this is our one week anniversary."
"That's sweet, Harry," Hermione whispered.
"And the others?" Megan asked.
"They bonded with me after Hermione."
"Six weddings in a week?"
"I guess you could say that. I've had a very busy week."
"I'll say," Maggie laughed. "It's a wonder you can walk."
"Mother!" Clarice said in shock and embarrassment.
Harry merely shrugged as the Elf waiters arrived with their appetizers, a shrimp cocktail and glasses of white local wine for Harry everyone except the three youngest Jamesons who had fruit juice.
"So Clarice," Harry said, "how long have you known you were adopted?"
"My parents told me when I was seven," Clarice replied.
"Does it bother you at all?"
"My parents have always loved me," Clarice said. "I've always felt I had a family. The only thing that bothers me is I never got to know my birth parents. They died when I was a baby. Then again, they lived Outside and I would much rather live here."
"Outside? Then how did you come here?" Hermione asked.
Clarice shrugged. "I was adopted through the agency here in Pottersport."
"Sirius," Harry said, "he must have brought her here."
"Then why didn't we know," Hermione said. "He would have said something."
"That's not what happened," Remus said. "And we had no idea what really happened that night until after you and Hermione rescued Sirius two years ago. Until then, we had no clue at all."
"What did happen?" Harry asked.
"That night, after it happened, Sirius wanted to take you and her to Lord Charles. Regrettably, Sirius was still loyal to Dumbledore at the time. We all were then. Dumbledore wanted to split you up. He gave you to Hagrid and told Sirius to take care of the girl. Sirius brought her to a friend of his who was with social services in London."
"Why?"
"That's where Wormtail was last seen," Remus replied. "He left her with his friend and then went after Wormtail. He cornered Wormy the next morning, got framed for murder and was in Azkaban before anyone knew what was happening. By the time he got out and could help, the trail was cold. We could not find his friend anywhere and…"
"Are you talking about me?" Clarice asked.
"Might be," Harry said, "Mallory?"
Mallory nodded and pointed her wand at Harry. There was a flash of yellow light for an instant. She then did the same thing to Clarice. Soon, a red smoke arose from her wand tip. She turned and nodded to Harry before sitting down.
"Clarice?" Harry said. She was too stunned to reply. "You were born Clarice Anne Potter on September 5th, 1981 in Godric's Hollow in Wales, I believe. On October 31st of that same year, your parents' home was attacked by Voldemort. Your parents were killed and Voldemort was destroyed. Only two survived the attack. You and your older brother. You wound up being adopted here. Your older brother was sent to live with Muggle relatives."
Clarice and the Jamesons said nothing. They looked shocked.
"You're birth parents were James and Lily Potter," Harry continued. "I am your older brother, Clarice."
"We've been looking for you for a long, long time," Remus added.
"D-does this mean I have to leave my family?" Clarice whimpered.
"No, not at all," Harry said. "Not unless you want to."
"I don't."
"I'm not here to break up a family, Clarice. I am here to save one."
"Save?" several of the Jameson's asked.
Harry nodded.
"Saving families is his thing," Astoria said.
"Why does my family need saving?" Mick asked.
"Clarice was born outside," Harry said. "As such, she has dual citizenship. Her Outside magical guardian is going to sell her as a concubine at auction in two weeks."
Clarice gasped. "But how? How can this happen? Only Daddy could…"
"A powerful man assumed control over you, Clarice. It was against the wishes of our parents and our grandparents. Lord Charles could have taken over as your guardian, but to do so he had to meet you which never happened. Or, if it did, he did not know you were his granddaughter. I, as a dual citizen and Head of two Ancient and Noble Houses can become your magical guardian and cancel the proposed sale."
"Yet you could sell me as well?" Clarice asked as tears filled her green eyes.
Harry pulled his wand. "I, Lord Harry James Potter, Head of the Ancient and Noble House of Potter, do hereby swear on my life and magic, the following:
"Should Clarice Lillian Potter Jameson consent to the protection of my House and to my assumption of magical guardianship over her, I shall never sell her or offer to sell her as a Concubine. I further pledge not to offer her in contract for marriage, unless said contract is by her wish and with the consent and blessing of her adoptive parents Mick and Maggie Jameson. So mote it be!"
"Who would do such a thing?" Maggie Jameson asked.
"Dumbledore," Harry said.
"But he does not even know us?"
"He doesn't have to," Remus explained. "He usurped control over Harry and his sister. We believe that even though he has no idea where Clarice is, he's selling her as part of his scheme to break the House of Potter forever."
"And what are you doing about this?"
"Lord Black saw to it that Harry was emancipated. Had Dumbledore had his way, Harry would never have been allowed to learn about his family or heritage, must less assume his titles. Harry was to die without ever being Lord Potter. Clarice was to be lost to the world such that her children, if she was even allowed to have any, would be heirs of nothing. Dumbledore's control of Harry died the moment Harry arrived here. Harry can now break his control over Clarice and end this plot forever."
"And if you become her magical guardian?" Mick asked.
"Any contracts entered into by Dumbledore regarding Clarice are voided. She can no longer be sold."
"And what do you get out of this?"
"I get my sister back," Harry said. "She is still your daughter, Mick. But she is also my sister. I want my family back."
Clarice looked at her parents with a questioning expression. They both nodded.
"I, I accept," Clarice said. "But do I have to live in the Manor?"
"No," Harry replied. "But I do expect you to visit."
Clarice agreed to come under Harry's House protection and a spell later, Harry became her magical guardian voiding Dumbledore's plan to sell her and end the Potter line. The rest of the meal went remarkably well. Clarice and her family enjoyed themselves immensely and Harry was pleased to see that his girls were both well treated and even respected by the Jamesons. Clarice seemed to get along especially well with Daphne and Astoria and Harry was surprised to see that Hermione had her admirers as well in younger Megan and Erin Jameson, who both viewed her as a princess or some such.
When the lunch ended, Harry escorted his girls to the ball. He later would admit he had a wonderful time dancing with each of his lovelies, as well as his sister and several other women present. He was constantly complimented on his dancing skills, which he found both odd and pleasant. The Ball also allowed his a chance to meet hundreds of people, and his ladies as well. He was pleased to see that they were accepted in this society and was even more pleased to see just how happy they all seemed. Then again, Astoria had told him during one of their dances it was hard not to be happy when the best looking man at the ball is your husband in all but law.
When they finally got home Harry was very tired. Not too tired, but the most tired he had felt in a long while. He still had enough energy after dinner to entertain Hermione and Astoria, the two women he neither woke up with that morning nor would fall asleep with that night. Finally, around ten o'clock, he led Dora and Daphne to his room for the night at the end of what had been an unexpected and yet pleasant day with his ladies.
A/N: RELATIONSHIP SCORECARD:
If you didn't read the Intro, you missed that. This is so you can keep up with who's with who and how.
His Highness, Lord Sir Harry James Potter, Duke of Charenwell, Head of the Ancient and Noble House of Potter, Head of the Ancient and Noble House of Black, KRT, age 15.
1. Her Highness, Lady Dame Hermione Jane (Granger) Potter, Duchess of Charenwell, KRT, age 16 (Gr-5); CONSORT (POTTER).
2. Lady Dame Nymphadora (Dora) (Tonks) Black-Potter, KRT, age 21 (Hu); CONCUBINE (BLACK).
3. Lady Minerva Grace (McGonagall) Potter-Black, age 68 (Gr); CONCUBINE (POTTER).
4. Lady Mallory Michelle (Grant) Black Potter, age 39 (Hu); CONCUBINE (BLACK).
5. Lady Daphne Renee (Greengrass) Black-Potter, age 16 (Sl-5); CONCUBINE (BLACK).
6. Lady Astoria Lynn (Greengrass) Potter-Black, age 14 (Sl-3); CONCUBINE (POTTER).
KRT - Knight of the Round Table.
And no, Harry does not know everything about what he is now yet... (No Demons, just more stuff)