I realized that I have to type in the disclaimers and I haven't so far.
Oops! So okay, here it is, JKR came up with Helga, Godric, Rowena,
Salazar, Hogwarts, pretty much everything you recognize. I'm just playing
with them. Enjoy!
Chapter 6: A Castle
Godric stood surveying the land before him. They had begun to cast the Muggle repelling charms on the village. It should be empty of Muggles by the end of the summer.
Godric had always loved the summer. He had meet Mairead in the summer. Tonight was the solstice, it was the longest day of summer, and work had begun on the castle that would one-day serve to teach his people. Anya and Ben had been married only four month and were already expecting their first child. Life was perfect, at least it should have been.
Helga had barely talked to anyone for the past four months, which was extremely troublesome. Salazar had been trying to command the entire building operation. Rowena was constantly fighting for control with Salazar. Godric decide to work on an entirely different part of castle and let them get on with it.
And then there was Mairead. She had been withdrawn of late. Her mind seemed to wander all the time. She would only stay in a room with him for moments, if that. He had been trying to talk to her, to see what her had done wrong, but to no avail.
"Da!" a young voice rang out behind him. Godric smiled despite his more troublesome thoughts. At least Rhys was still the same indomitable boy.
"Da," Rhys panted as he skidded to stop beside his father. "You have to come. Salazar and Aunt Rowena are having a huge row."
Godric began walking quickly, Rhys in tow. "What about now?"
"Salazar wants to build below the dungeons. Rowena said that's not practical, as the dungeons are already done. They sent for you and Helga to settle their dispute."
"Oh good," Godric mumbled.
**************** Ulric watched Helga as she walked to where Salazar and Rowena were arguing. Helga didn't seem to thrilled about getting involved in their dispute. Although she didn't seem thrilled about anything anymore.
Helga had been so distraught since she had secured the land grant from the king. Ulric hadn't been thrilled about it himself, but he had supported her decision. Garth had been bringing it up constantly over the past few month in front of both Helga and Ulric.
Ulric had even been invited to spend time at the king's court. It was rumored he was slated for knighthood. He had tried to decline but Helga had said how beneficial it would be to have another ear in the king's court, not to mention another voice advising the king in favor of their people.
Ulric had just returned from the king's court and wanted to talk with Helga. She had made sure that wasn't possible. He sighed. Things were not going as smoothly as they should. ***************
Things were not going as they should. Helga watched Salazar and Rowena argue as she approached. Is this what she had worked for? To watched two adults squabble like children. And Salazar had been so controlling lately. What ever they were arguing about, Helga assumed Rowena was right.
The construction looked like it would take another year, even with magic helping to build it. The sentient magical creatures were not particularly thrilled and she had been designated as ambassador. The grand elves in particular were causing problems.
Godric seemed distracted. Not that she could really blame him. Something was defiantly wrong with Mairead. He was about to become a grandfather. Rhys was still young and needed his parents. Godric was being pulled in too many directions
At least Anya and Benowyc were doing well. And staying far away from Hogwarts.
And then there was Ulric. She just couldn't deal with him right now. She still had lingering guilt about AEthelred. She'd get over it eventually, of course, but how was she suppose to build a relationship with Ulric in the midst of all this. When Ulric had been invited to court she encouraged him to go.
She needed time to think. Unfortunately she hadn't had much time to think while he was gone, or at all fir that matter, over the past four months. She had tired, but just couldn't seem to get five minutes to form a coherent sentence.
Helga sighed. If only she could just get away by herself for an hour of two.
"Salazar, you can't build anything under the dungeons at this point!" Rowena shouted.
The woman was really getting annoying.
"Of course I can, Rowena. It's called magic," Salazar had quipped back.
Rowena gave a scream of frustration. Godric and Rhys were approaching. The great Godric, who didn't even care about the school. Salazar wondered why he bothered to be here at all.
"Rowena listen, we've agreed. We can each teach our students in what every ways we each think necessary! I think this necessary!" Salazar said again.
"A secret chamber that Godric, Helga, and I can't access? Why is that necessary, Salazar?" Rowena screamed.
Now Helga and Ulric were coming. Salazar was not looking forward to a battle with the others. And least not just yet.
"No one could access it, Rowena, That's why it's necessary! I'm going to be here teaching for God only knows how long. I what some place where I can keep working on my own interests, away from prying eyes who could get hurt!"
"Salazar has a point," Helga said.
Everyone turned and stared at her, even Salazar. He had not expected an ally. His Imperio Curse, as it was now named, may not work on her, but maybe should would one day help of her own will. Like not.
"Thank you Helga!" Salazar said. "Some one who sees sense!"
"I don't like the idea, Salazar!" Helga snapped. "But you have a point. We each have our talents. We here for a reason and after every thing I've sacrificed to start this venture I will not have it ruined by the two of you bickering like children!"
Helga turned on her hell and began to march off.
"Helga!" Godric called. "Where are you going?"
She turned back to them. "Away from this madness!" then she disapperated.
******************
Rowena stared at the spot Helga had disappreated from.
"Damn!" she said softly.
"What now?" Godric asked.
"Helga was suppose to go speak to those infernal elves," Rowena answered.
Godric raised an eyebrow. "You don't think we're putting to much pressure on her?"
"Of course not!" Salazar answered.
Suddenly Ulric exploded. "Of course you are! For God's sakes! She didn't have to deal with this much stress while trying to coordinate every witch and wizard South of here! She's done so much!"
"It's no less than she can handle," Salazar said.
"But it is," Ulric said. "She doesn't want to let anyone down. Especially not you three."
"Maybe you should go find her?" sighed Rowena.
"I can't. She doesn't want to talk to me. I'm worried about her. Hopefully she went to see Anya. I know she hasn't yet because Helga would never want to put her burden upon her friends' shoulders. Maybe today will push her towards help."
"I hope so," Godric said. "We need her."
"I though you really didn't care about Hogwarts?" Asked Salazar.
"Come now, old friend you know me better than that! If I didn't believe this place is important. I wouldn't be here." Godric put a hand on Rhys' shoulder. "I want to teach my son here." He gave the boy a warm smile before turning back to the others. "I'll go talk to the elves. Kayla owes me a favor. I guess it's time to claim it. You two needed to stop these petty squabbles. Rowena go work on the Entrance and Great Halls. We need your creative flare there. Sal, magik your sub-dungeon into existence, but from there work on the rest of the dungeons so you're out of Ro's path. Is that workable for everyone?"
They nodded.
"Good," Godric smiled. "Coming with me boys?"
And with that Godric headed towards the forest with Ulric and Rhys in tow.
*****************************
Benowyc watched Helga standing on the parapet. She just stared straight out into the ocean.
"Don't fall," he said.
She tried not to smile. "Oh I won't fall. I might jump, but never fall."
"Very funny. Didn't Granda used to say that too?"
"Yes, and I know why know. People are such a pain."
"Yes, they should all be wiped off the face of the earth" Ben said dryly. "Do you want to talk about it?"
She took a deep breath. "No, I just needed to think. Thanks for letting me up here."
He hugged his cousin tight. "It's your home too. You're always welcome."
"Thanks, I may just take you up on that."
"Do you want to stay the night? It's getting late."
"Thanks, Ben, I think I will. God only knows what I'm facing tomorrow."
"Can't be all bad, Hel. How's Ulric?" he asked without looking her in the eye. "Are you two still...?"
"I barely speak to him," Helga answered.
"Why?"
"Ben, you know what I did at your wedding! How could I expect him to be with me after that?"
"Give him a chance, Hel. He's loved you for years," Ben smiled as he said this. "He's only been waiting for a chance. And he thought he had that at last. When he realized you were pulling away, he went back to waiting for you to come to him. Has he gone anywhere? No. He's still right there, waiting for you."
************************************************************************
Helga flew toward the now nearly finished castle. Magic was a wonderful thing. It allowed the founders to built a monstrous building that would shock most Muggles in just a year and a half!
Seeing the new turrets rising to the sky gave Helga such a feeling of accomplishment. She had started all this. It was because of her efforts. She had help of course. Helga was smart enough to know Hogwarts would never have been built without Salazar, Godric, and Rowena.
Helga flew low and spotted the badger on Ulric's personal banner. She smiled to herself. He was incorrigible. After following her around for so long, and the conversation where Ben had pointed out that he would follow her forever, Helga and snapped at Ulric one day.
"Would you stop badgering me you insane git!" she had screamed. He had said nothing, but the next day the badger banner appeared, letting Helga know Ulric would never leave her.
"Helga!" Ulric called from the ground below now. He waved her over with a great grin on his face.
"How did you spot me?" she asked with a frown as she landed on the ground a few feet away from him.
"With that hair! How could I miss you?" he said pulling her into a kiss the second he reached her.
"Don't tease me about my hair," she pouted.
He laughed. "You can make a joke about as well as you dance," said an idiotic man in love.
"As do you, which is why my feet always hurt after we dance," Helga grinned back at him.
Arms wrapped around each other the walked towards the castle to decide when exactly Hogwarts would open and what students they would teach.
With their arms around each other's waists, Helga and Ulric entered through the large doors to the grand Entrance Hall. Their laughter echoed through the large room. When they opened the doors, however, they were met by the sounds of angry voices.
Helga sighed. "Back into the lions den."
Ulric kissed her on the cheek. "It will be all right, love. The sooner we go in the soon we can leave."
"This all started out so wonderfully," Helga said.
"Come now," Salazar said, hearing her comment. "It hasn't been all bad has it?"
She looked at Ulric adoringly. "No, not all bad."
Salazar laughed. "Young love. Now Ulric, see if you can't educate my son on the virtues of a having a good woman."
"And what would you know about having one woman?" Ulric asked lightly.
Salazar and Ulric's banter was lost to Helga as she watched the others in the room around her. Rowena and Garth were arguing about admitting Muggle- born students. Mairead and Godric were arguing about what age the students should be. And several other witches and wizards were scattered about the large room, arguing.
Godric and Rowena had thought that for a project of this magnitude, other witches and wizards should be involved. They thought it should a contribution to their whole kind. Salazar had been reluctant to allow anyone else a say. Helga was tired of mediating arguments. There were enough problems with just the four of them. Of course with more people, she would be pulled into less arguments. Or so she thought. Apparently people valued her opinion.
"Helga!" Rowena called.
"I've been spotted," Helga whispered to Ulric as she let go of him.
"Be careful," he warned as she walked off.
"Helga tell this..." Rowena began.
'Aren't I suppose to be the child of this group?' Helga thought. 'God give me strength!'
****************
After two and half hours of arguments, Helga's head really hurt. Ulric seemed to sense this and offered her a smile from across the room. Her look clearly said 'can't we just leave them all?' He only smiled more, humor lighting his eyes.
'Damn attractive man!' she thought.
"Helga are you listening?" Mariad snapped.
"I think it's a fine idea to concentrate on educating children, but we mustn't forget those older witched and wizards who will be, well, older," Helga said rejoining the conversation. "This board of Governors is suppose to keep the over all good in mind as well as what's best for the school."
Mairead looked miffed. Clearly Helga had been listening. Something was defiantly wrong with the Lady Gryffindor. Godric had said he thought it was all the stress of forming the school and not being involved at all. So they included her. It hadn't helped. Rowena kept shooting her sister worried looks. Godric insisted she would be all right given time. Salazar seemed unconcerned. Helga was starting to have a hostile relationship with the woman she once modeled herself upon.
It was hours later that she was raving to Ulric, letting out her frustrations when she screamed, "I can't believe that woman was almost my mother-in-law! Gah!"
There was a very pregnant pause. Ulric retreated to a corner of the room with his back to her. Helga mentally kicked herself.
"I'm sorry, love," she said putting her arms around him and leaning her head on his back. "I didn't mean to call up old ghosts."
"He'll always be with us, won't he?" Ulric asked quietly.
Helga let go and took a few steps away. "You'd rather he was forgotten?" she asked with a bit of anger.
"No! Robin was like a brother to me. And I can't forget, Helga. I can't forget you loved him first. You should be with him, not me."
"After all this time your still insecure? Ulric, I love you. Yes, I loved Robin when I was younger, but I was a different person then. Robin was an idealist. I am not as naive as I once was and I don't know if I could stand that scrutinizing glare of his." Helga shuttered. "Worse than my grandfather, he was. But you don't judge me, Ulric. I have never; I could never doubt your love for me. Don't doubt mine for you."
He still hadn't looked at her but he could hear the tears in her voice. "I, I need some air."
Ulric left without looking at her. Helga sat down determined not to cry, and failed.
After Helga had a good cry she decided Ulric was being completely stubborn and should be told so. They had both been living in the castle since last winter and his rooms were down the hall from hers. Once her mind was made up, she set off in his direction. Unfortunately, he shared living space with Garth.
When Helga arrived in their common room Garth was the only one there.
"Trouble in paradise, Helga?" he asked snidely.
"Go jump in the lake, Garth," said Helga as she walked past towards Ulric's room.
She was back a moment later.
"He's not here. He was about ten minutes ago. Came in all sulky, and brooding. I knew it was because of you. It always is. I suggested he talk a walk, or find someone better for him. I think he took a walk. Pity."
Helga gave Garth a nasty look before retreating to find Ulric.
***********
Garth watched her leave and once the echo of her footsteps was gone he went to the near by hearth.
"Incendio!" he called pointing his wand at the empty fireplace. Instantly a fire blazed warm and bright. Taking a green powder from the mantle he through it in the fire.
"Father," Garth called. "They are on their way. Insipid fools."
"Garth! Watch what you say. Be mindful of the girl. She could kill you with a thought! Remember that my son. Helga makes a much better ally then enemy. You've seen how they respond to her. Benowyc my have been Bedower's official heir, but Helga inherited his influence, as well as a great deal of his power. If you hadn't been so foolish in setting yourself against her from your youth, it might by you she is enamored of."
Garth shuddered at his father's words. "What would you have me do, sir?"
"Nothing more for the moment. But if things go as they should today, you may need to comfort your friend. Maybe convince Ulric a nice long trip is in order."
"Yes, father," Garth said, inclining his head.
"Do nothing rash my son. Things may yet be turned our way. You may yet wield great power."
"Thank you, father."
***************** Ulric walked alone by the lake enjoying the view of the half finished castle. He loved this view. Helga was working so hard to help build the future, literally. He wanted to help in any way he could. She had said all she need was him to be there with him.
He threw a stone across the surface and watched it hop across the water. Ulric knew he shouldn't be so upset at Helga. It wasn't her fault she had loved Robin first. Ulric had watched them fall in love, even while he fell for Helga.
Ulric had sworn to protect them. Robin deserved Helga. Ulric had never felt like he was worthy of her, but Rob was another matter. They complimented each other so completely. Ulric cherished their friendship and swore to protect them, to see to it they lived a long and happy life together.
Robin wasn't suppose to die. If only he lived, there wouldn't be a problem. They'd be married and he'd be Uncle Ulric to their children.
Ulric threw another stone across the stone.
Robin just wasn't suppose to die. Maybe Robin and Helga wouldn't have lasted. Maybe Helga would still love him, Ulric Hufflepuff. Either way, Robin was suppose to be here.
Ulric threw yet another stone cross the lake. He didn't even watch as it skipped out of sight.
"Fifteen, impressive," said a female voice behind him.
Ulric turned hoping to see Helga, but saw quite a different woman.
Ulric was staring at a painfully beautiful woman. She had long slivery blonde hair and stormy grey eyes. She couldn't have been more then fifteen or sixteen years old.
"Are you Ulric Hufflepuff?" she asked.
"Yes," he said recovering himself. "Yes, I am."
She smiled at him. "I've been watching you. You a remarkable man, my lord."
Ulric shook his head. "Lady, I deserve no such praise. But you have me at a loss. May I ask your name?"
"Zarena. I believe you know my brother, Garth."
"You are Garth's long lost sister?" He laughed as he noted the similarities to his friend. "He said you were to stay with your mother's people."
"I was," she said frowning. "But it was impossibly boring there. I'd much rather be put in the world. My father is doing great things. I have come to help him."
"A noble cause, Lady."
"One you yourself have under taken, though for another reason I am told." She smirked as Ulric frowned. What's this, you do not seem pleased?"
"I assume you refer to the Lady Helga Dumbledore? I have begun to wonder about her of late."
"She had cause you to lose faith? Poor man." Zarena put one hand to his face and kissed his other cheek.
"Nay, lady," he said sadly, "she did not cause me to lose faith. I find it was not as strong as I imagined. But welcome to Hogwarts. May you find what you seek."
Ulric left then. Zarina smiled. "Oh I have dear Ulric. I have."
*****************
"Ulric," Helga said hesitantly to the shadow in front of her.
He turned. He looked tired. At the sight if her he slowly shook his head and turned back to the view from the turret he stood on.
Helga walked up to him, but didn't say anything. It was a beautiful view. When the towers were finished, they could see for miles.
"What are you doing here?" Ulric asked.
"Looking for you," she said quietly. "I found you, so here I am."
"And why would you care where I am?" he said coldly.
"Because I love you."
Helga said it simply with no guile or secondary meanings. He simply stared at her open mouthed. After the way he walked out on her earlier, how could she make such a pronouncement?
"It's very simple," she continued when he did not speak. "For the past four years or so, you've been my rock. You saw me through Robin's death when you were morning too. You saw me through my grandfather's death and Benowyc's wedding. More so, you stayed despite what I did at the wedding. I don't think Rob would have. And you've been with me through all this Hogwarts mess. You've been loyal, steadfast and true. I can't think what I'd do without you. Ulric, I love you more than I know how to say, and when you left today I thought the bottom had dropped out of my world. I found you, and I'll be damned before I let you go again. I have been trying to tell you that."
"Well," he said to stunned to speak, "there we are then."
"There I am anyway." Helga looked up at him and he saw tears in her eyes. "Ulric, I have to wonder if the only reason you've stayed with me so long is because of your loyalty to Robin."
"Helga, I..."
When he didn't go on she felt hollowed out. "Oh, well, I, I guess I'll just have to live with that then."
"No, Hel, you'll have to live with me," he said and kissed her." Helga you have the most amazing sense of justice of anyone I've ever met. How can you be so hard on yourself? You've worked so hard to found this school. You've given up so much. You've be completely selfless. I love you with all the fires of hell and songs of heaven. I've never felt worthy of you, and I don't know if I ever will, but you went a long towards fixing that today. I'll make myself good enough for you, you see."
"Ulric," Helga smiled and placed a hand on his face, forcing him to look her in the eye. "You're a great deal too good for me. But I'm not about to complain. Try and make your self better if you insist. You won't be able too."
She kissed him again, and they lost all sense of time or the world around them.
Chapter 6: A Castle
Godric stood surveying the land before him. They had begun to cast the Muggle repelling charms on the village. It should be empty of Muggles by the end of the summer.
Godric had always loved the summer. He had meet Mairead in the summer. Tonight was the solstice, it was the longest day of summer, and work had begun on the castle that would one-day serve to teach his people. Anya and Ben had been married only four month and were already expecting their first child. Life was perfect, at least it should have been.
Helga had barely talked to anyone for the past four months, which was extremely troublesome. Salazar had been trying to command the entire building operation. Rowena was constantly fighting for control with Salazar. Godric decide to work on an entirely different part of castle and let them get on with it.
And then there was Mairead. She had been withdrawn of late. Her mind seemed to wander all the time. She would only stay in a room with him for moments, if that. He had been trying to talk to her, to see what her had done wrong, but to no avail.
"Da!" a young voice rang out behind him. Godric smiled despite his more troublesome thoughts. At least Rhys was still the same indomitable boy.
"Da," Rhys panted as he skidded to stop beside his father. "You have to come. Salazar and Aunt Rowena are having a huge row."
Godric began walking quickly, Rhys in tow. "What about now?"
"Salazar wants to build below the dungeons. Rowena said that's not practical, as the dungeons are already done. They sent for you and Helga to settle their dispute."
"Oh good," Godric mumbled.
**************** Ulric watched Helga as she walked to where Salazar and Rowena were arguing. Helga didn't seem to thrilled about getting involved in their dispute. Although she didn't seem thrilled about anything anymore.
Helga had been so distraught since she had secured the land grant from the king. Ulric hadn't been thrilled about it himself, but he had supported her decision. Garth had been bringing it up constantly over the past few month in front of both Helga and Ulric.
Ulric had even been invited to spend time at the king's court. It was rumored he was slated for knighthood. He had tried to decline but Helga had said how beneficial it would be to have another ear in the king's court, not to mention another voice advising the king in favor of their people.
Ulric had just returned from the king's court and wanted to talk with Helga. She had made sure that wasn't possible. He sighed. Things were not going as smoothly as they should. ***************
Things were not going as they should. Helga watched Salazar and Rowena argue as she approached. Is this what she had worked for? To watched two adults squabble like children. And Salazar had been so controlling lately. What ever they were arguing about, Helga assumed Rowena was right.
The construction looked like it would take another year, even with magic helping to build it. The sentient magical creatures were not particularly thrilled and she had been designated as ambassador. The grand elves in particular were causing problems.
Godric seemed distracted. Not that she could really blame him. Something was defiantly wrong with Mairead. He was about to become a grandfather. Rhys was still young and needed his parents. Godric was being pulled in too many directions
At least Anya and Benowyc were doing well. And staying far away from Hogwarts.
And then there was Ulric. She just couldn't deal with him right now. She still had lingering guilt about AEthelred. She'd get over it eventually, of course, but how was she suppose to build a relationship with Ulric in the midst of all this. When Ulric had been invited to court she encouraged him to go.
She needed time to think. Unfortunately she hadn't had much time to think while he was gone, or at all fir that matter, over the past four months. She had tired, but just couldn't seem to get five minutes to form a coherent sentence.
Helga sighed. If only she could just get away by herself for an hour of two.
"Salazar, you can't build anything under the dungeons at this point!" Rowena shouted.
The woman was really getting annoying.
"Of course I can, Rowena. It's called magic," Salazar had quipped back.
Rowena gave a scream of frustration. Godric and Rhys were approaching. The great Godric, who didn't even care about the school. Salazar wondered why he bothered to be here at all.
"Rowena listen, we've agreed. We can each teach our students in what every ways we each think necessary! I think this necessary!" Salazar said again.
"A secret chamber that Godric, Helga, and I can't access? Why is that necessary, Salazar?" Rowena screamed.
Now Helga and Ulric were coming. Salazar was not looking forward to a battle with the others. And least not just yet.
"No one could access it, Rowena, That's why it's necessary! I'm going to be here teaching for God only knows how long. I what some place where I can keep working on my own interests, away from prying eyes who could get hurt!"
"Salazar has a point," Helga said.
Everyone turned and stared at her, even Salazar. He had not expected an ally. His Imperio Curse, as it was now named, may not work on her, but maybe should would one day help of her own will. Like not.
"Thank you Helga!" Salazar said. "Some one who sees sense!"
"I don't like the idea, Salazar!" Helga snapped. "But you have a point. We each have our talents. We here for a reason and after every thing I've sacrificed to start this venture I will not have it ruined by the two of you bickering like children!"
Helga turned on her hell and began to march off.
"Helga!" Godric called. "Where are you going?"
She turned back to them. "Away from this madness!" then she disapperated.
******************
Rowena stared at the spot Helga had disappreated from.
"Damn!" she said softly.
"What now?" Godric asked.
"Helga was suppose to go speak to those infernal elves," Rowena answered.
Godric raised an eyebrow. "You don't think we're putting to much pressure on her?"
"Of course not!" Salazar answered.
Suddenly Ulric exploded. "Of course you are! For God's sakes! She didn't have to deal with this much stress while trying to coordinate every witch and wizard South of here! She's done so much!"
"It's no less than she can handle," Salazar said.
"But it is," Ulric said. "She doesn't want to let anyone down. Especially not you three."
"Maybe you should go find her?" sighed Rowena.
"I can't. She doesn't want to talk to me. I'm worried about her. Hopefully she went to see Anya. I know she hasn't yet because Helga would never want to put her burden upon her friends' shoulders. Maybe today will push her towards help."
"I hope so," Godric said. "We need her."
"I though you really didn't care about Hogwarts?" Asked Salazar.
"Come now, old friend you know me better than that! If I didn't believe this place is important. I wouldn't be here." Godric put a hand on Rhys' shoulder. "I want to teach my son here." He gave the boy a warm smile before turning back to the others. "I'll go talk to the elves. Kayla owes me a favor. I guess it's time to claim it. You two needed to stop these petty squabbles. Rowena go work on the Entrance and Great Halls. We need your creative flare there. Sal, magik your sub-dungeon into existence, but from there work on the rest of the dungeons so you're out of Ro's path. Is that workable for everyone?"
They nodded.
"Good," Godric smiled. "Coming with me boys?"
And with that Godric headed towards the forest with Ulric and Rhys in tow.
*****************************
Benowyc watched Helga standing on the parapet. She just stared straight out into the ocean.
"Don't fall," he said.
She tried not to smile. "Oh I won't fall. I might jump, but never fall."
"Very funny. Didn't Granda used to say that too?"
"Yes, and I know why know. People are such a pain."
"Yes, they should all be wiped off the face of the earth" Ben said dryly. "Do you want to talk about it?"
She took a deep breath. "No, I just needed to think. Thanks for letting me up here."
He hugged his cousin tight. "It's your home too. You're always welcome."
"Thanks, I may just take you up on that."
"Do you want to stay the night? It's getting late."
"Thanks, Ben, I think I will. God only knows what I'm facing tomorrow."
"Can't be all bad, Hel. How's Ulric?" he asked without looking her in the eye. "Are you two still...?"
"I barely speak to him," Helga answered.
"Why?"
"Ben, you know what I did at your wedding! How could I expect him to be with me after that?"
"Give him a chance, Hel. He's loved you for years," Ben smiled as he said this. "He's only been waiting for a chance. And he thought he had that at last. When he realized you were pulling away, he went back to waiting for you to come to him. Has he gone anywhere? No. He's still right there, waiting for you."
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Helga flew toward the now nearly finished castle. Magic was a wonderful thing. It allowed the founders to built a monstrous building that would shock most Muggles in just a year and a half!
Seeing the new turrets rising to the sky gave Helga such a feeling of accomplishment. She had started all this. It was because of her efforts. She had help of course. Helga was smart enough to know Hogwarts would never have been built without Salazar, Godric, and Rowena.
Helga flew low and spotted the badger on Ulric's personal banner. She smiled to herself. He was incorrigible. After following her around for so long, and the conversation where Ben had pointed out that he would follow her forever, Helga and snapped at Ulric one day.
"Would you stop badgering me you insane git!" she had screamed. He had said nothing, but the next day the badger banner appeared, letting Helga know Ulric would never leave her.
"Helga!" Ulric called from the ground below now. He waved her over with a great grin on his face.
"How did you spot me?" she asked with a frown as she landed on the ground a few feet away from him.
"With that hair! How could I miss you?" he said pulling her into a kiss the second he reached her.
"Don't tease me about my hair," she pouted.
He laughed. "You can make a joke about as well as you dance," said an idiotic man in love.
"As do you, which is why my feet always hurt after we dance," Helga grinned back at him.
Arms wrapped around each other the walked towards the castle to decide when exactly Hogwarts would open and what students they would teach.
With their arms around each other's waists, Helga and Ulric entered through the large doors to the grand Entrance Hall. Their laughter echoed through the large room. When they opened the doors, however, they were met by the sounds of angry voices.
Helga sighed. "Back into the lions den."
Ulric kissed her on the cheek. "It will be all right, love. The sooner we go in the soon we can leave."
"This all started out so wonderfully," Helga said.
"Come now," Salazar said, hearing her comment. "It hasn't been all bad has it?"
She looked at Ulric adoringly. "No, not all bad."
Salazar laughed. "Young love. Now Ulric, see if you can't educate my son on the virtues of a having a good woman."
"And what would you know about having one woman?" Ulric asked lightly.
Salazar and Ulric's banter was lost to Helga as she watched the others in the room around her. Rowena and Garth were arguing about admitting Muggle- born students. Mairead and Godric were arguing about what age the students should be. And several other witches and wizards were scattered about the large room, arguing.
Godric and Rowena had thought that for a project of this magnitude, other witches and wizards should be involved. They thought it should a contribution to their whole kind. Salazar had been reluctant to allow anyone else a say. Helga was tired of mediating arguments. There were enough problems with just the four of them. Of course with more people, she would be pulled into less arguments. Or so she thought. Apparently people valued her opinion.
"Helga!" Rowena called.
"I've been spotted," Helga whispered to Ulric as she let go of him.
"Be careful," he warned as she walked off.
"Helga tell this..." Rowena began.
'Aren't I suppose to be the child of this group?' Helga thought. 'God give me strength!'
****************
After two and half hours of arguments, Helga's head really hurt. Ulric seemed to sense this and offered her a smile from across the room. Her look clearly said 'can't we just leave them all?' He only smiled more, humor lighting his eyes.
'Damn attractive man!' she thought.
"Helga are you listening?" Mariad snapped.
"I think it's a fine idea to concentrate on educating children, but we mustn't forget those older witched and wizards who will be, well, older," Helga said rejoining the conversation. "This board of Governors is suppose to keep the over all good in mind as well as what's best for the school."
Mairead looked miffed. Clearly Helga had been listening. Something was defiantly wrong with the Lady Gryffindor. Godric had said he thought it was all the stress of forming the school and not being involved at all. So they included her. It hadn't helped. Rowena kept shooting her sister worried looks. Godric insisted she would be all right given time. Salazar seemed unconcerned. Helga was starting to have a hostile relationship with the woman she once modeled herself upon.
It was hours later that she was raving to Ulric, letting out her frustrations when she screamed, "I can't believe that woman was almost my mother-in-law! Gah!"
There was a very pregnant pause. Ulric retreated to a corner of the room with his back to her. Helga mentally kicked herself.
"I'm sorry, love," she said putting her arms around him and leaning her head on his back. "I didn't mean to call up old ghosts."
"He'll always be with us, won't he?" Ulric asked quietly.
Helga let go and took a few steps away. "You'd rather he was forgotten?" she asked with a bit of anger.
"No! Robin was like a brother to me. And I can't forget, Helga. I can't forget you loved him first. You should be with him, not me."
"After all this time your still insecure? Ulric, I love you. Yes, I loved Robin when I was younger, but I was a different person then. Robin was an idealist. I am not as naive as I once was and I don't know if I could stand that scrutinizing glare of his." Helga shuttered. "Worse than my grandfather, he was. But you don't judge me, Ulric. I have never; I could never doubt your love for me. Don't doubt mine for you."
He still hadn't looked at her but he could hear the tears in her voice. "I, I need some air."
Ulric left without looking at her. Helga sat down determined not to cry, and failed.
After Helga had a good cry she decided Ulric was being completely stubborn and should be told so. They had both been living in the castle since last winter and his rooms were down the hall from hers. Once her mind was made up, she set off in his direction. Unfortunately, he shared living space with Garth.
When Helga arrived in their common room Garth was the only one there.
"Trouble in paradise, Helga?" he asked snidely.
"Go jump in the lake, Garth," said Helga as she walked past towards Ulric's room.
She was back a moment later.
"He's not here. He was about ten minutes ago. Came in all sulky, and brooding. I knew it was because of you. It always is. I suggested he talk a walk, or find someone better for him. I think he took a walk. Pity."
Helga gave Garth a nasty look before retreating to find Ulric.
***********
Garth watched her leave and once the echo of her footsteps was gone he went to the near by hearth.
"Incendio!" he called pointing his wand at the empty fireplace. Instantly a fire blazed warm and bright. Taking a green powder from the mantle he through it in the fire.
"Father," Garth called. "They are on their way. Insipid fools."
"Garth! Watch what you say. Be mindful of the girl. She could kill you with a thought! Remember that my son. Helga makes a much better ally then enemy. You've seen how they respond to her. Benowyc my have been Bedower's official heir, but Helga inherited his influence, as well as a great deal of his power. If you hadn't been so foolish in setting yourself against her from your youth, it might by you she is enamored of."
Garth shuddered at his father's words. "What would you have me do, sir?"
"Nothing more for the moment. But if things go as they should today, you may need to comfort your friend. Maybe convince Ulric a nice long trip is in order."
"Yes, father," Garth said, inclining his head.
"Do nothing rash my son. Things may yet be turned our way. You may yet wield great power."
"Thank you, father."
***************** Ulric walked alone by the lake enjoying the view of the half finished castle. He loved this view. Helga was working so hard to help build the future, literally. He wanted to help in any way he could. She had said all she need was him to be there with him.
He threw a stone across the surface and watched it hop across the water. Ulric knew he shouldn't be so upset at Helga. It wasn't her fault she had loved Robin first. Ulric had watched them fall in love, even while he fell for Helga.
Ulric had sworn to protect them. Robin deserved Helga. Ulric had never felt like he was worthy of her, but Rob was another matter. They complimented each other so completely. Ulric cherished their friendship and swore to protect them, to see to it they lived a long and happy life together.
Robin wasn't suppose to die. If only he lived, there wouldn't be a problem. They'd be married and he'd be Uncle Ulric to their children.
Ulric threw another stone across the stone.
Robin just wasn't suppose to die. Maybe Robin and Helga wouldn't have lasted. Maybe Helga would still love him, Ulric Hufflepuff. Either way, Robin was suppose to be here.
Ulric threw yet another stone cross the lake. He didn't even watch as it skipped out of sight.
"Fifteen, impressive," said a female voice behind him.
Ulric turned hoping to see Helga, but saw quite a different woman.
Ulric was staring at a painfully beautiful woman. She had long slivery blonde hair and stormy grey eyes. She couldn't have been more then fifteen or sixteen years old.
"Are you Ulric Hufflepuff?" she asked.
"Yes," he said recovering himself. "Yes, I am."
She smiled at him. "I've been watching you. You a remarkable man, my lord."
Ulric shook his head. "Lady, I deserve no such praise. But you have me at a loss. May I ask your name?"
"Zarena. I believe you know my brother, Garth."
"You are Garth's long lost sister?" He laughed as he noted the similarities to his friend. "He said you were to stay with your mother's people."
"I was," she said frowning. "But it was impossibly boring there. I'd much rather be put in the world. My father is doing great things. I have come to help him."
"A noble cause, Lady."
"One you yourself have under taken, though for another reason I am told." She smirked as Ulric frowned. What's this, you do not seem pleased?"
"I assume you refer to the Lady Helga Dumbledore? I have begun to wonder about her of late."
"She had cause you to lose faith? Poor man." Zarena put one hand to his face and kissed his other cheek.
"Nay, lady," he said sadly, "she did not cause me to lose faith. I find it was not as strong as I imagined. But welcome to Hogwarts. May you find what you seek."
Ulric left then. Zarina smiled. "Oh I have dear Ulric. I have."
*****************
"Ulric," Helga said hesitantly to the shadow in front of her.
He turned. He looked tired. At the sight if her he slowly shook his head and turned back to the view from the turret he stood on.
Helga walked up to him, but didn't say anything. It was a beautiful view. When the towers were finished, they could see for miles.
"What are you doing here?" Ulric asked.
"Looking for you," she said quietly. "I found you, so here I am."
"And why would you care where I am?" he said coldly.
"Because I love you."
Helga said it simply with no guile or secondary meanings. He simply stared at her open mouthed. After the way he walked out on her earlier, how could she make such a pronouncement?
"It's very simple," she continued when he did not speak. "For the past four years or so, you've been my rock. You saw me through Robin's death when you were morning too. You saw me through my grandfather's death and Benowyc's wedding. More so, you stayed despite what I did at the wedding. I don't think Rob would have. And you've been with me through all this Hogwarts mess. You've been loyal, steadfast and true. I can't think what I'd do without you. Ulric, I love you more than I know how to say, and when you left today I thought the bottom had dropped out of my world. I found you, and I'll be damned before I let you go again. I have been trying to tell you that."
"Well," he said to stunned to speak, "there we are then."
"There I am anyway." Helga looked up at him and he saw tears in her eyes. "Ulric, I have to wonder if the only reason you've stayed with me so long is because of your loyalty to Robin."
"Helga, I..."
When he didn't go on she felt hollowed out. "Oh, well, I, I guess I'll just have to live with that then."
"No, Hel, you'll have to live with me," he said and kissed her." Helga you have the most amazing sense of justice of anyone I've ever met. How can you be so hard on yourself? You've worked so hard to found this school. You've given up so much. You've be completely selfless. I love you with all the fires of hell and songs of heaven. I've never felt worthy of you, and I don't know if I ever will, but you went a long towards fixing that today. I'll make myself good enough for you, you see."
"Ulric," Helga smiled and placed a hand on his face, forcing him to look her in the eye. "You're a great deal too good for me. But I'm not about to complain. Try and make your self better if you insist. You won't be able too."
She kissed him again, and they lost all sense of time or the world around them.
