Rebirth of Lady Morgana

Anthony meets the Founders, End of summer

Later that night, after their parents had gone to sleep, Morgana pulled Anthony into her room. With meticulous care, she placed a plethora of security wards, secrecy charms, silencing wards, and perimeter wards around the space, ensuring their privacy. The air shimmered briefly as each spell settled into place, creating an impenetrable barrier around them. Once she was satisfied with the protections, she pulled out all four founders' portraits and leaned them up in her sitting area.

Mordred slithered into the seating area, his smooth, serpentine form gliding gracefully. He climbed his way up to settle around Morgana's shoulders, his presence a comforting weight. Shortly after, Merlin, in his feline form, trotted into the room. With a fluid motion, he transformed back into his true self, a middle-aged man with wise, kind eyes. He chuckled at Anthony's stunned expression.

"Hello, Anthony," Merlin said, a hint of amusement in his voice. "Yes, the black cat is indeed me, Merlin."

Anthony's jaw dropped. "You mean, you're THE Merlin? As in, the legendary wizard?"

Merlin nodded, his eyes twinkling with mirth. "Indeed, I am. It's a pleasure to finally meet you properly."

The portraits came to life with a burst of color and movement. Godric Gryffindor, with his wild mane of red hair and fierce eyes, leaned forward with a broad grin. Rowena Ravenclaw, her ethereal beauty enhanced by her serene expression, floated gracefully into view. Helga Hufflepuff, plump and radiating warmth, practically glowed with happiness. Salazar Slytherin, his sharp features softened by a rare, gentle smile, nodded curtly.

"Ah, there's my little Gryffin!" Godric Gryffindor exclaimed, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Still up to your old tricks?"

Morgana smiled, feeling a familiar warmth spread through her. "Always, Godric. It's good to see you again."

Rowena Ravenclaw's calm and serene voice followed, her eyes softening as she looked at Morgana. "Welcome back, Morgana dear. We've missed you."

Helga Hufflepuff beamed with happiness and affection. "Oh, my dear little one, it's so good to see you! And who is this handsome young man with you?"

Salazar Slytherin, the most reserved of the four, nodded curtly at Anthony but his eyes softened as they met Morgana's. "Hello again, my Little Serpent.”

Merlin stepped forward, greeting each of the Founders with a respectful nod. "It's good to see you all again."

Godric's booming laugh filled the room. "Merlin! Always a pleasure. You've been sorely missed."

Rowena's eyes sparkled with a quiet joy. "Welcome back, Merlin. Your wisdom has been absent from us far too long."

Helga's face lit up with a warm smile. "It's wonderful to see you, Merlin. Your presence always brings such light."

Salazar's eyes lit up with genuine joy as he noticed Mordred wrapped around Morgana's shoulders. "And you, Mordred. You look well."

Morgana smiled, feeling a warmth spread through her at their familiar voices and Merlin's comforting presence. "Everyone, this is my brother, Anthony. Anthony, meet the Founders of Hogwarts: Godric Gryffindor, Rowena Ravenclaw, Helga Hufflepuff, and Salazar Slytherin. And, of course, you've met Merlin."

Anthony's eyes widened in awe. He felt a rush of excitement and nervousness at being in the presence of such legendary figures, even if it was just their portraits. "It's an honor to meet all of you," he said, his voice slightly shaky.

Godric grinned, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "The pleasure is ours, young Anthony. So, you’re Morgana’s brother, eh? I bet you’ve got some Gryffindor in you, too."