Disclaimer: All charcters and world concepts are property of J.K. Rowling
Disclaimer: This is not the work of CNG25 but that of Lilausty, originally published on harrypotterfanfiction-dot-com.
Chapter 16: When I Said Stay I MEANT It!
September ended, October flew by and before Harry could blink, it was Halloween. Voldemort had been fairly quite, with only a smattering of muggle killings and a couple of muggleborns going missing. It made Harry nervous, because such a lull in the terror meant trouble down the track.
Still, for the first time in his life Harry was truly contented and happy. His and Ginny's bond was growing daily, and he now realised that without a doubt he truly did love her. His training with the founders was proceeding well and he was confident in his progress.
If his friends were still unhappy about him leaving most nights they didn't say anything, as they could see the dramatic improvement in his control over his emotions.
He had decided a week ago that he was going to spend Halloween night with the founders and had spent the subsequent days trying to find a way of telling his friends. When he finally told them, Ginny particular had not been impressed. He couldn't help but smile at the memory.
*** Flashback ***
"What do you mean you won't be there?" Ginny asked, her arms crossed across her chest.
Harry winced, "I-I have decided that I want to be alone on Halloween night. I probably won't even come to the feast. As soon as classes are over I am going to go straight to Phoenix's Nest."
"B-But, the feast Harry! You'll be missing out on the feast!" Ron burst out, looking more aghast about missing the food then not being with his friends.
Harry nodded, "Yeah, but I can get Dobby to bring me some stuff. I just don't want to be in a big crowd that's all, after all, over the years we haven't had much luck with Halloween. I just want a quiet night where I can think about things that have past."
"Well, why can't we be with you then?" Ginny pressed, wrapping her arms around him.
Harry sighed in exasperation, "Because I want to be alone! Halloween is not a pleasant night for me you know."
Understanding washed over Hermione's face, "Oh Harry, of course! I understand now, but I still don't think you should be alone."
Ron looked confused, "For those of us who don't understand can you say why it isn't a pleasant night? On those times where it has been nearly normal we have had great fun!"
Harry took pity on the completely befuddled Ron, "It was the night my parents were murdered Ron. As you can imagine that has changed my life pretty dramatically."
Ron blushed red with embarrassment and Ginny hugged him even tighter, "I agree with Hermione, you shouldn't be alone, especially on a night like this!"
Staring down into her stubborn eyes he smiled, "Gin, I love you, but some things need to be done in solitude. This is my first Halloween as an adult without parents, without Dumbledore without….without Sirius. I need to be alone, if only to tell them how much they all meant to me and that I won't fail them or let their sacrifice be in vain. I would prefer to do that without an audience, no matter how dear that audience is to me."
Ginny still looked stubborn but Ron gave a half grin, "Come on girls, you aren't going to change his mind. And I can understand where he is coming from being a guy. Unloading your emotions in front of people can be quite embarrassing."
Shooting him a grateful look Harry hugged Ginny tightly as she relaxed, "Very well Harry, I don't like it, but I can accept it."
He smiled at her, "Thank you Gin."
*** End Flashback ***
That had been the day before, and now Harry had just finished his last class for the day. Even in seventh year the teachers went easy on the students on Halloween. Tonks especially made the lesson a game more than a learning experience, but it was certainly fun.
Harry had decided that he wanted to walk to Phoenix's Nest rather than flashing as it was still within normal hours and he didn't have any fear of getting in trouble for wandering around.
He had said farewell to a reluctant Ginny, a curious Hermione and a hungry Ron and was passing the 2nd Floor. As he walked he couldn't help but think about the founders and what they had taught him over the past 2 months.
Their personalities especially were surprising, as he would have expected serious, powerful people. Yet they were not larger than life, but merely human beings with their own personal quirks, likes, dislikes with lots of talent.
Godric reminded him strongly of the Weasley twins, always looking for a laugh and not afraid to fool around even in the most serious of situations. He could always be counted on to lighten the tension in the room, even with just a small joke or a smile.
However, when it came to teaching Harry, he was a definite sticker for getting things right. He was a patient teacher, explaining all the details so even the most complicated spell seemed easy.
Of course for him, they were easy. Harry hadn't truly understood what he meant when he said he was a master at any form of magical war. Now he did.
The first day of training Godric had decided to test Harry's duelling ability but fighting him one-on-one. Needless to say Harry ended up flat on his back within the first minute in the first duel. Surprisingly enough though, Godric had actually complimented him on making good use of his feet and saying that his natural ability was very good and it wouldn't take long for Godric to train him up.
This had cheered Harry immensely, and he had thrown himself into learning, hoping that Godric could teach him magic that Voldemort wouldn't have even heard off.
Unfortunately that wasn't the case, and Harry soon became depressed when Godric revealed that he didn't have any 'special' powers.
*** Flashback ***
Thump!
"Ouch! Godric that hurt!" Harry complained, picking himself up off the ground for the umpteenth time.
Godric grinned, "Well, if you learned to get out of the way quicker you wouldn't be in pain. This spell isn't that hard Harry, you just need to visualise it better."
Harry grumbled under his breath, "I hate non-verbal spells."
Laughing the lion founder replied, "Don't we all? Still, your concentration seems to be worse than normal, what's up?" he gestured to the seat that was against the wall.
Harry took it gratefully, as he counteracted the curse that Godric had thrown at him. He stared at the floor for a moment before saying, "I just don't see how I can possibly defeat him!"
Obviously not expecting that, Godric looked down at his young charge, "Voldemort? Oh you can't beat him, not yet anyway. But who cares?"
Harry looked up at him incredulously, "I care! And I think most sane people on this planet would care."
The founder smiled sadly, "And there in lies the problem Harry. Until you can put out of your mind the expectations of the public, and stop trying to carry the world on your shoulders, you are not going to succeed. All that is going to happen is you are going to collapse under the pressure."
Harry shrugged, "haven't yet."
Godric sighed, "Indeed, and I am utterly amazed believe me. But that isn't what is bothering you, is it?"
Harry looked up startled causing Godric to laugh again, "Harry, you are still quite easy to read you know. Now, tell me, what is bothering you?"
Harry hesitated for a moment before sighing, "It's just, I had hoped that I would have some sort of special power that would give me an edge over Voldemort."
Godric looked confused, "What sort of powers do you mean?"
"Oh I don't know. Maybe controlling the elements, or being able to manipulate time and space. Or even being able to automatically heal myself, that'd be cool! I mean, magic exists, so why can't that sort of magic occur in people?" Harry replied.
A wave of understanding and sympathy crossed Godric's face, "Harry," he said softly, "Even magic has boundaries and the 'magic' that you describe simply does not and cannot exist. Magic exists within an individual, within living things, but what you describe involves manipulating things that are not alive. I will admit, the ability to automatically heal is something that a single wizard has been known to do, but no one has seen it since, and frankly I believe it wasn't automatic, he just unconsciously did it. His name was Merlin, Harry, and I do not think you should try and measure up to his legend."
Harry blinked in astonishment, "So, no sort of 'supernatural' magical powers exist?"
"Unfortunately no, they do not. There are powers which are unusual but most of them require a magical object to work. Merlin had many, which he then stored in his Cave. "
Harry visibly deflated, looking quite depressed. Godric patted him on the back, "But it doesn't matter Harry. You are an incredibly talented individual with much raw power. You are very young and despite what you have been through, inexperienced. Your natural ability is incredible, and when cultivated will make you a formidable foe."
Harry looked up and smiled, "Really? You mean that?"
Godric grinned back at him, "I do not usually lie, unless it is to cover up a prank Harry. And remember, we will be there when you take on Voldemort, so do not fear about not being able to defeat him. We will help you, I promise."
Visibly cheered Harry nodded, "Thank you Godric. For everything."
"Oh you are most welcome. Now, how about we work on that curse some more? I reckon you have almost got it, you just need a bit more practice."
Harry grinned, stood up and raised his wand.
*** End Flashback ***
Yes Godric had certainly squashed most of Harry's fears that day, and all the founders had noted a dramatic improvement in his performance.
Rowena particularly had commented on his dedication to his subjects, and was pleased with his progress.
Harry had to be honest and say that of all the founders, he was the most surprised at Rowena's teaching methods. He had assumed that she would be like Professor McGonagall, strict and straight down the line. However, she turned out to be very kind, patient and understanding.
She never got annoyed if Harry couldn't grasp something, merely going back over the subject and explaining it again. Harry struggled particularly badly in the languages subject, but she had turned part of the training into a game, and consequently he started to understand. He could now speak relatively fluently in Goblin, and his Mermish was improving daily.
Rowena had been correct in her assumption of his animagus learning. He could already change at will, though he at times found holding the transformation for extended periods of time could be difficult.
*** Flashback ***
"Right Harry, are you ready to do your first full transformation?"
"You have to ask? All I have gotten to see of myself is a large hairy leg with some pretty wicked looking claws. I want to know what I am!" Harry exclaimed in excitement.
Rowena laughed, "Oh very well, here, drink this potion, it should allow you to complete the transformation." She handed him a smoking vial which he swallowed quickly.
The look on his face as the potion coursed through his system caused Rowena to laugh even harder. Once he had gotten his breath back he glowered at her, "You could have warned me that it tasted like eggs!"
She shrugged, "Much more fun this way."
Harry rolled his eyes, "You seem to say that a lot when it comes to me drinking potions."
Raising her eyebrows she said, "Did you want to stand there complaining? Or did you want to complete your animagus transformation?"
Remembering why he was there, he nodded and approached the centre of the room. He looked at her curiously, "So what do I do?"
"Concentrate hard on what your arm looked like when it was transformed. Keep your concentration strong and the transformation should continue across your whole body. Obviously the first one is always the hardest, because you do not know what you are. After that it gets much easier." She explained.
"And what if it doesn't work?" he asked curiously.
She shrugged, "You keep trying until it does. We know you can become an animagus, now all that remains is to finish the job. Now, concentrate!"
He nodded, staring hard at his arm and thinking of the hairy leg with claws.
All at once, fur sprouted along his arm and it became a good deal larger. Claws extended from his fingernails and his fingers and hand turned into a giant paw.
Harry started to shake from exertion, but kept his concentration up, focussing his attention on his arm and willing the fur to continue moving up his body.
And it did.
Almost loosing his concentration in his shock, Harry watched as his body changed before his eyes. He realised he was definitely a very large animal as Rowena had backed up and was looking up at him with wide eyes.
She smiled, and he knew his transformation had completed itself. He collapsed in exhaustion and let out a low moan.
At least that is the noise he meant to make, but it came out as a growl.
In his excitement to learn what he was, he jumped back to his feet, forgetting that he was much larger, and knocked over a table.
Rowena laughed, "Harry settle down, you are going to destroy the room if you keep that up. Here, I'll conjure a mirror for you. I do not know what kind of animal you are, but perhaps you do."
A giant mirror appeared before Harry's eyes, and he felt them go wide with surprise and elation. He let out an enormous roar, which caused Rowena to hurriedly place her hands over her ears and back up.
Two seconds later the door to the room burst open, and in tumbled the other three founders looking worried. When they caught sight of Harry they stood open mouthed in amazement.
"W-What is he?" Helga asked.
Not able to hold the transformation any longer, Harry shrunk and collapsed. Salazar rushed over to him and helped him sit up as Rowena passed him another vial. Harry took it reluctantly and raised his eyebrow at her, "Are you going to tell me what this one tastes like?"
She laughed, "This is purely that hot chocolate stuff that Dobby makes, it also has a bit of an accelerant to get your regeneration happening. Don't fuss, just drink it."
Harry obeyed and to his relief it did taste nice. Immediately he perked up and then looked at the four founders. They stared back, a mixture of admiration, happiness and pride.
Finally Godric broke the silence, "So Harry, do you know what animal you are? Because we have never seen it before."
He nodded, "Yeah, though my colouring is not typical of the breed. They are usually brown, but I am a grizzly bear. They live in America which is another continent west of here. They are one of the largest types of bear in the world. I can't remember if they or the polar bear are the largest, but they are quite vicious. When I was in primary school I read a book that said the American Indians used to believe there was nothing as dangerous as a female Grizzly with cubs."
Salazar looked impressed, "Well, I would agree with that assumption just by looking at you. You were absolutely huge, particularly for an animagus. The larger the animal, the harder it is to transform. You truly do have power Harry."
He grinned, "I still feel tired though."
Godric snorted, "That is to be expected, now, why don't you try it ag…"
"Excuse me, I think I am the one who is teaching him to be an animagus!" Rowena butted in looking amused and insulted.
Helga grinned, seized the two protesting male founders and pulled them from the room, waving merrily to Harry. When the door closed, Rowena turned back to Harry, "Do you think you are up to another try? If not we can leave it till tomorrow."
"No, I want to try again. I didn't get a very good look at myself." Harry replied.
"Very well, concentrate hard, you should find it easier now that you know what you are."
Harry nodded, concentrated, and very quickly transformed into the Grizzly. He stared at himself in the mirror, examining every little detail. He had to admit, he did look impressive.
He was jet black, the exact same colour as his hair. He had very slight grey markings around his eyes which represented his glasses and he was very pleased that there were no fur markings that represented his scar.
He tried to move around and promptly fell over, his feet becoming entangled. Rowena laughed loudly before saying, "Harry, you are not used to walking with four feet. Take it slow!"
Harry growled, got to his feet and started walking, one foot at a time. However, within five minutes he found himself shaking and he dropped the transformation.
Rowena clapped her hands, "Very good Harry! Very good! You certainly picked it up quickly. So quickly in fact, I think that we can move onto the next stage, which is blending into your surroundings as an animagus." She paused and looked at him as he raised an incredulous eyebrow. She grinned, "Well, that may be difficult for an animal of your size, but we can but try!"
Harry grinned.
*** End Flashback ***
Harry shook his head in mirth, recalling those next lessons. Rowena had given up with a week, realising how futile it was to try and teach him to conceal a body that could stand 3 metres tall. It was like telling a small troll to be quite and to hide.
Salazar had suggested that instead of teaching him how to blend in, she should teach him how to utilise his animal's senses, particularly those involving attack.
When the snake founder had suggested that, Harry had turned into his animagus and had gently but firmly grabbed the man and pushed him to the floor. Salazar, being quick on the uptake, had fired off a rather gentle curse straight into Harry's chest.
What had followed had caused the others to stop and blink in astonishment. The spell which should have stopped him in his tracks merely bounced off him. Harry had reverted back to his human form in surprise and had demanded to know what had happened.
The founders didn't know, but Rowena guessed that there must have been something in the blood of a Grizzly that allowed them to shrug off certain spells, sort of like a giant.
Harry was greatly cheered by this, but off course Salazar wanted to test the theory, and had then spent the next couple of days hurling spells at him in his animagus form to see how much he could withstand. They discovered that most moderate level curses would only cause him slight discomfort and the lighter spells wouldn't affect him at all.
The snake founder was always very strict, straight down the line, and not very patient. However, he was fair, just like he had said, and understood that mistakes were very much apart of learning as long as they weren't repeated.
If Harry made the same mistake twice, then Salazar would get annoyed, but he was never cruel, and he never insulted him. It made a very nice change from Snape, Slughorn and of course Voldemort, who were really the only adult Slytherins that Harry knew.
Under Salazar, his potion making ability was definitely improving and he was starting to grasp even the most complicated of subjects. He was still struggling with parstletounge as he still could not distinguish the difference between English and the snake language at times, but Salazar told him to simply visualise a snake in his head and in time he will be able to make the distinction.
What was a surprise for Harry, and a delight for Salazar, was that Harry was an absolute natural at healing. He had progressed further than Salazar could have hoped, and he really enjoyed it. Seldom did he come across a spell or potion in healing that took him more than one attempt to perfect.
Salazar had been a little shocked to begin with, simply because Harry was also good at fighting. He had told Harry that it was unusual for an individual to be good at both, because their focus needed to be completely different for each instance.
Helga believed that his healing talent came from his desire to help people, while his war talent came from necessity and a desire to do his duty.
Of all the founders, Helga was certainly the sweetest and most motherly. She had pretty well adopted Harry, becoming his mother whether he liked it or not. Of course, Harry was honoured and grateful, so there wasn't an issue, and to Harry, her most endearing attribute was her ability to love pretty well anyone and everyone. She reminded him of Mrs Weasley in that respect.
However, while she was always content to let the other three create the plans and raise ideas, Harry very quickly realised it wasn't because she was stupid. Quite the opposite, she was far more intelligent than she let on, and he very quickly came to the belief than anyone who underestimated her would be in for a very nasty surprise.
As she had already made an enemy of Bellatrix, Harry had no doubt that they would meet again. He only wished he would be there to see it, to see the look on the dark witch's face when she realised she picked a fight with the wrong woman.
She was right when she said most of her classes were easy. Charms, Herbology and Creatures were fun, and his knowledge was increasing daily. Harry had to reluctantly admit that while Hagrid was a dear friend to him and he knew a lot about magical creatures, he wasn't the best teacher.
Instead of showing him beasts that would take his head off if it had the chance, Helga preferred to stick to the nicer creatures of the magical world. Harry was pleasantly surprised that there were plenty of them.
He didn't know how she managed to acquire it, but she had even brought in a snidget, which was a little fluffy yellow bird that resembled a snitch.
His other class with her, Mind and Body Control similarly was going well. He still had trouble reigning in on his emotions when certain memories arose, but he was certainly getting better.
*** Flashback ***
"Good Harry, very good!" Helga praised, "I believe that pretty soon, you are going to be able to 'slow time down'"
"I still do not understand that Helga. How can I slow time down?" Harry asked, very confused.
She nodded, "It is a difficult concept to grasp. However, think of it as living inside of a moment. Time is still progressing normally, but you can see it in slow motion. You see yourself as moving normally while everything else is moving slowly, though in reality your movements would be blisteringly quick. Until it happens to you, it is a little hard to explain, but you will get it eventually."
Harry nodded and she smiled, "Do you want to try again?"
Harry sat cross legged in front of her, their eyes locked together as he listened to his heartbeat and concentrated on every single cell in his body. He saw her gaze break away from his own, fixing themselves onto something behind him.
Her eyes went wide.
And Harry moved.
It was exactly as she had said, everything but himself was in slow motion. He fell to the floor as a spell went whizzing past his head and collided with Helga. Not even pausing to see what it was that hit her he grasped his wand and pointed it to a startled Salazar and shot a stunning spell back at him.
He didn't even have time to blink as the spell careened into him.
WHACK!
His body fell over onto the ground.
And time returned to normal.
Harry realised his heart was pounding to the same beat as the footsteps running into the room. Godric and Rowena burst through the door and looked at the scene before them. Rowena smirked, "I think Salazar will owe you some money Godric. Looks like Harry has progressed faster than he thought!"
Harry crawled over to Helga, his limbs shaking slightly and waved his wand over her, cancelling the effects of the spell. Godric did the same to Salazar and he sat up, glowering at Harry.
He didn't get a word in however, as Helga turned to him, "SALAZAR! I TOLD YOU! NO SHOOTING SPELLS AT HARRY UNTIL I SAID SO!"
The snake founder nearly cowered before the woman's wrath, "I…"
"I NOTHING! WHAT IF HE HADN'T BEEN READY? YOU WOULD HAVE JUST CURSED HIM FOR FUN?"
"Helga, calm down!" Godric said sharply, a grin tugging at the corners of his mouth.
The woman heaved a breath, glaring dangerously at Salazar. Harry, completely non-plussed, sat on his hindquarters and watched the show unfold.
Salazar replied, "Look, in the real life he isn't going to have time to decide if he is ready. He either will be or won't be! And, it is quite obvious that he is ready. I haven't seen anyone aside from Godric move that fast before." He smiled at Harry who nervously grinned back.
Helga turned to Harry, obviously torn between worry and pride, "So, you managed to slow time down then?"
Harry nodded, "Yeah, it was exactly like you said, I felt like I could do anything within that time!"
Godric sat down next to him, "Yes, it can often give you a feeling of confidence. Just remember, there are others that can do this as well, so don't get too overconfident." He turned to Salazar, "And I do believe you owe me three galleons my friend!"
Salazar rolled his eyes as Helga laughed obviously over her anger, "Serves you right for betting against my student!"
*** End Flashback ***
Yes, Harry had certainly learned a lot over the past 2 months. He was constantly getting outstanding in all of his subjects, but if his friends had noticed the dramatic improvement in his schooling, they didn't say anything.
He had started reading a lot in his time between day classes and night classes. Hermione did remark once that she couldn't understand where he got the time to read, considering it was their NEWT year, but he had placated her, and she never bothered him again.
He reached the portrait of the phoenix and placed his hand on it saying "Fire's heat!"
Immediately the hole was revealed and he climbed into Phoenix's Nest, completely unaware that a pair of eyes, narrowed in thought, had witnessed his entrance.
"Ah Harry, how are you today?" Rowena asked as he made himself comfortable on the sofa.
"Alright, I don't think Ginny is impressed that I left today, but she let it alone which was good." Harry replied.
Godric grinned, "You have a good one there Harry. I have watched her a little bit during her classes, got a fiery head on her shoulders and courage in her heart. A perfect match for you I would say!"
Salazar nodded, "Yes, though even I wouldn't want to cross her. I have seen how her temper can get the better of her. Her bat-bogey hex is quite extraordinary, I don't think that seventh year Slytherin knew what hit him to be honest!"
Harry snorted, "Goyle never does, he is thicker than a troll most of the time."
"So Harry, what did you…" Rowena broke off, her head snapping around to the portrait.
Godric and Salazar were already on their feet with Helga pointing her wand at the hole. Imitating her, Harry pulled his own out, whispering, "What it is?"
"Someone just tried to access the portrait." She whispered back.
Godric and Salazar gestured for Harry to guard the portrait hole while they took the side door, which was a secret access hallway that ran parallel to the main. They slipped out obviously wanting to catch whoever was out there.
Harry, feeling his nerves on edge, kept his body tense, every muscle alert.
There was a shriek.
A very familiar shriek.
Harry slammed open the portrait hole and hurtled himself through, just in time to see Ginny being gently stunned by Godric, her wand slipping from her grasp.
Harry winced.
Salazar caught her and carried her in, Godric and Harry right on his heels. Harry was not looking forward to her reaction when she woke up, knowing that she was going to be mighty pissed off.
Rowena covered her mouth, "Oh my! Well, there goes your cover story Harry. I think dear Ginny has just invited herself into our fold."
Harry frowned but nodded, "Yeah, I can't obliviate her, and now that she has seen Godric and Salazar she is not going to let me keep her in the dark. Can you lot leave the room while I wake her up? Its just she will probably attack you on sight until I have explained things to her."
Helga nodded, "Of course Harry, we will be in Godric's room. Call us when you need us." She grabbed Salazar who looked like he wanted to protest and the four founders made their way out of the living room.
Sitting next to her, Harry pointed his wand at her head and whispered, "Enervate!"
Immediately her eyes sprung open and her mouth opened to scream. However, she caught sight of Harry sitting next to her and she closed it quickly, throwing her arms around him, "Harry!"
He patted her on the back, "It's alright Gin, you're alright. Don't worry, you're safe."
She looked confused before her brain caught up with her, "Harry! I was attacked! I followed you, I am so sorry, but I wanted to see where you went. I came to this portrait of a phoenix and whispered the password that you had said but it wouldn't open. I tried again, but two men came and attacked me! How did you find me? Where did they go? How did they get into Hogwarts?"
Her questions bubbled out of her, one after the other, not giving him a chance to answer. Finally he held up his hand, "Gin, calm down. I know who attacked you, and believe me, if I had of known that you were following me, they never would have got near you."
"Who are they?"
"Friends, teachers and guides."
She frowned, "Harry, that doesn't tell me a thing. You had said that you wanted to be alone, but now I find you are actually with people!"
Harry sighed, "Alright, I'll tell you everything, but I have to call in the others."
"Others? As in Hermione and Ron?"
"No, as in the people that attacked you, and a couple of their friends. Do not fear Ginny, they won't harm you, in fact, they really like you and have wanted to meet you for a while now." He soothed.
She didn't look convinced but nodded her head. He turned to the door and called out, "Alright you lot, you can come out now!" Ginny snuggled into him, gripping his clothes tightly as if to reassure herself that he was her protector.
He smiled and put his arms around her as the founders came into the lounge room and sat down. Helga smiled saying, "You know Harry, that wasn't much of a grounding you gave them. I would have thought you would have cursed them back to the middle ages for attacking your girlfriend."
Harry shrugged, "I hardly need to defend her. I am waiting for when she takes her own revenge." He grinned wickedly at Godric and Salazar who both gulped slightly.
Ginny, not really understanding what was going on, simply looked at the four adults in confused wonderment. "Who are you?" she asked.
Harry smiled, "Ginny may I introduce you to Godric Gryffindor, Salazar Slytherin, Rowena Ravenclaw and Helga Hufflepuff."
Ginny's jaw hit the floor as Helga complained, "Why am I always last!"
Harry grinned at her, "'Cause you're the sweetest. You wouldn't want to have dessert first now would you?"
She rolled her eyes, "Oh you are such a charmer!"
Ginny meanwhile was gaping like a fish, "Th-They're t-t-the Founders? H-How?"
"Long story Miss Weasley, but lets just say young Harry here summoned us accidentally and we are stuck here without any way of getting home." Godric said.
"Godric, stop making it sound like a chore!" Rowena scolded, "You are enjoying your time here as much as the rest of us!"
Harry tuned them out and faced Ginny, "The shortened story is I accidentally summoned them during the eclipse. We sat down and had a long talk about everything and they agreed to train me to fight Voldemort. They know everything, including the problem we are facing regarding the horcruxes."
Ginny frowned, shooting a suspicious glance at Salazar, "B-But…"
The snake founder sighed, "Oh here we go."
"Salazar hush!" Helga admonished.
Harry looked into Ginny's brown eyes, "Do not worry about Salazar. He isn't like history has made him out to be. He is completely trustworthy, and I do believe that if there wasn't a stupid prophecy hanging over my head, he would be the one to kill Voldemort. You should have seen his reaction when he found out everything."
Godric laughed, "I thought he was going to pop a blood vessel in his head!" he joined in.
Salazar grumbled, "Oh sure, laugh at the snake just cause he is easy pickings!"
Harry grinned, "Oh come on, you pick on us whenever you can. Time for a little payback in my views!"
"Impertinent brat!" Salazar drawled, obviously fighting a grin.
Obviously still confused and frightened Ginny huddled closer to Harry, "I still do not understand."
"That's ok dear, we were not expecting to spring this on you so quickly. We had assumed that Harry would be able to introduce you to us gradually. However, you have been thrown into the preverbal lions den it would seem." Helga smiled.
"I take offense to that!" Salazar exclaimed, "Why should it be Godric's animal that get's used? Why can't it be a snake den?"
In spite of herself, Ginny giggled. The four founders stared at her and she blushed bright red. She looked up at Harry, "They remind me of Fred and George!"
Harry grinned, "I thought the exact same thing when I first met them."
Obviously gaining her confidence, she sat up and stared firmly into his eyes, "Why didn't you trust me? Why didn't you tell me about them?"
Harry winced, "Would you believe that I wanted to be a selfish brat and keep them all to myself?"
Her eyebrows rose, "Depends on what sort of mood I'm in. Right now, no, I do not believe that for a second!"
He sighed, "I had assumed that if you found out so would Ron and Hermione. And if Hermione found out she would go and tell McGonagall. Then my 'secret weapon' would be pretty useless. That and I don't like McGonagall and don't want her to know every little detail in my life."
Godric spoke up, "We initially thought he should have told you as well, but he convinced us in the end. But look on the bright side, you know now! And you have the pleasure of our company."
Harry whispered into her ear just loud enough for them to hear, "Run away!"
"Oi!"
"That's enough you lot!" Helga butted in, "We have a very serious situation here. Miss Weasley has stumbled upon us, and now we have to decide what to do about it."
Ginny's arms tightened around Harry in slight fear but she needn't have worried as Salazar immediately responded, "Well it is obvious what we must do. We must give her the potion and train her along with Harry!"
Rowena added, "If that is what she wants Salazar."
The four founders turned and faced the two teenagers. Ginny, not knowing what was going on looked up at Harry. He smiled, "They are offering you a great honour. There is a potion that they can access which, well, if you drink it you never have to sleep again. It constantly rejuvenates you so it means you can continue to learn during the night. It is how I have been attending all of my classes and still train with them."
Ginny's eyes were wide with awe and delight, "So you'll train me to?" she asked the founders.
Helga smiled, "Yes dear. How could we not? When you are Harry's love?"
Ginny blushed deeply, "Thank you ma-am."
"Right, first things first, never call us sir or ma-am. Use our names, we honestly do not mind." Rowena ordered.
Ginny nodded, "I can do that, just as long as you use mine."
Salazar inclined his head, "Agreed." He turned to Rowena who started conjuring the goblet that would change the red haired teenager's life.
"Ginny, before you take the potion, know that it is not pleasant at all. I am warning you because there is some pretty intense pain. They didn't warn me, as a joke, but I want you to be prepared." Harry informed her.
She frowned, "How intense? Like cruciatus intense?"
He shook his head, "No not quite that bad, and it doesn't last for very long."
She shrugged, "Well, I'll live."
Helga smiled sadly, "I wish you didn't make such light fun of pain young one."
Ginny gave her a fixed stare, her eyes smouldering with fire and determination, "It is the only way to get through some of the things that have happened to me. I assume that Harry told you about his second year?" She shot a nervous and accusing look at Salazar.
He winced, "Yes, he did. I had forgotten that you were the victim of my heir and Sidonay."
She glowered, "Lucky you. And who is Sidonay?"
Harry intervened, "She was the name of the Basilisk. She was his pet, though very strong willed. She was locked in the Chamber, but of course Voldemort had no qualms about using her for evil. Salazar has nothing against muggleborns or the like. His family are purists but he is not."
Ginny still didn't look convinced but the popping sound that signalled the arrival of the potion forestalled any more arguments.
She handed the goblet to the red haired teenager with a slight smile, "it is better if you drink it quickly."
Ginny nodded, took a deep breath and threw back the potion quickly. Harry's arms immediately went around her when she started shaking and he couldn't help but wince at the little cry of pain that escaped her lips.
However, within a few seconds her eyes cleared and she focussed them on Harry's concerned ones. She smiled, "Don't look like I am going to drop dead Harry, as you said, it wasn't that bad."
He breathed in relief, "Well, you are now one of only a few people that never have to sleep again."
She grinned, her colour returning quickly, "I feel incredible!"
Godric laughed, "Don't worry, that feeling of pure energy will be quickly used up once we are through with you!"
Apprehension crossed her face and she looked up at Harry again. He nodded, grinning slightly, "He tells the truth. You think Tonks works you hard in DADA, wait until your first week with this lot! You'll almost be wishing for a bed!"
"Oh don't scare her off Harry! We aren't that bad!" Helga admonished.
He raised his eyebrows at her and she blushed, "Ok, well maybe we are, but it is necessary."
"So what happens now?" Ginny asked.
"Well, normally we would start training at 11pm, so we have a few hours to kill. I am sure you have many questions you would like to ask us." Rowena replied.
Ginny nodded but Harry intervened, "Um, I have a question, it relates to the horcruxes."
The founders looked at him in surprise but he ignored the looks, "I had promised Ginny that I wouldn't start looking for them without her, but I didn't mention Ron or Hermione. Now that she has joined us, we probably should start. I was wondering if you guys have any ideas on how to find them?"
The four adults shared a thoughtful look before Rowena looked up, "Well, we have never come across them before, but there is a way to track a person. Theoretically I could adapt it to tracking pieces of a person."
Harry was encouraged, "How long would it take to adapt whatever needs adapting?"
She smiled, "Oh that wouldn't take very long at all. But there is a tiny little problem…"
"Which is?"
"I need a sample of Voldemort's blood."
Harry stared at her in disbelief and despair.
Helga giggled, "Well that should be easy! All we have to do is stick Harry out in a paddock somewhere as a lure, Voldemort is sure to come running like a dog to bone!"
Godric laughed, "And then what? Just say, 'Excuse me Voldy, would you mind if we took a sample of your blood? It's only for research value!' Ha!"
Ginny laughed with the others, only Harry remaining serious. "Is there any other method that we could use? Because I think our chance of getting that particular ingredient is fairly slim."
Rowena shook her head, "I know of no others, though I can do some research. Still, we can but hope that we may get a chance to nab some of his blood."
Ginny frowned, "Would he even bleed though? I mean after splitting his soul that many times, not to mention the fact that his body isn't a real one."
Salazar raised his eyebrows, "She raises an interesting point."
Harry shook his head, "Na, he'd bleed, if only because of Wormtail's hand and my blood. That is flesh and blood combined, so I would reckon that the body is real enough."
"Well, until that time comes all we can do is prepare everything else. And that includes you two, we need you to be as physically and mentally prepared to face him and his followers as possible. The only way that is going to happen is to step up the training." Salazar said decisively.
Godric nodded, "he is right. Ginny, you especially are going to have to work very hard, to catch up to Harry. Because you are his girlfriend, you probably will be targeted almost as much as he is. You must always be on your guard, no more can you play a little girl."
She opened her mouth to say something but Rowena continued, "He is right. But do not worry, with our help you will be a match for anyone out there." She turned and looked at the other three founders, "I think that we should split them up for their training. One takes Harry, one takes Ginny, one does her homework and one does his. We can create a plan for Ginny like we did for Harry, with the same subjects, just at different times."
Helga nodded, "Agreed, though I may combine Herbology and Creatures together so that I can have more time with her to teach her some other things."
Salazar looked curiously at her, "What sort of things?"
She grinned back at him, "Never you mind! Girl stuff!"
Harry smiled down at Ginny, "Looks like you have a second mother Gin."
She blushed deeply but said excitedly, "So when can we begin?"
The four founders laughed, "Now doesn't that sound familiar!" Godric grinned.