SSRP: Tales From Beyond Hogwarts

[VRSCIKA]

Once upon a Diagon Alley summer a young witch and wizard met for the first time. This pair bonded over their love of creatures and became the best of friends. The rest is history in the making. This is their story......

Chapter One: Once upon a Northwind Summer

The summer of Ilia and Henric's fifth year at Hogwarts is just beginning. Ilia has invited her best friend Henric and their mutual best friend Adi to her uncles' conservancy and ranch for the [b]summer. What adventures await them?

Players:
Freya Ilia Valke(VRSCIKA)

Ilia is going into her fifth year after summer. Slytherin, friend, true creature lover, and Creature Healer / Veterinarian in the making.

Henric Nicolei (Symphora)

Henric is a Hufflepuff in the same year as Ilia. Ilia's best and closest friend and they are nearly inseparable at school. Dragonologist in the making.

Aditya Rehman (Fearless Leader 19)

Adi the awesome Puff prefect was the first friend Ilia made at Hogwarts and only her second friend since she moved. Her adventure buddy and closest friend besides Henric. Hippogriff at heart and extraordinaire in the making, true creatures person.


(Some of Ilia's family)
Uncles:

Tyr Vaettir

Tyr is the oldest of the triplet brothers, husband of Eir, father ofFreyr and Ullr. He is the head of the Northwind Ranch and Conservancy. He and his two brothers are licensed and trained to keep, handle, and relocate / rehabilitate class XXXXX & XXXXXX creatures, and they do. His specialties however are predatory creatures and those with wings: Dragons, Griffins, Phoenix's....etc.

Vidarr Vaettir

Vidarr is the middle son of the triplets. Husband of Sunna, father of Idunn. His creatures specialties are Hippogriffs and other creatures that may be tamed and ridden such as Thestrals and Pegasus.

Vali Vaettir

Vali is the youngest of the triplets. He is the only single member of the brothers and uncle to all of the children, as well as a notable Dragonologist. He stations at the conservancy, but also travels and studies dragons in the wild.


Aunts:
Sunna Vaettir

Sunna Vaettir née Aesir, is the wife of Vidarr
, mother of Idunn, and sister of Runa. Her creatures specialty is dealing with Beings. She is the overseer of all of the house elves that call the conservancy home, and never fails to express her adoration for them.

Eir Vaettir

Eir Vaettir née Valke, is the wife Tyr, mother of Freyr and Ullr and sister of Eldric. She is the on site Healer for the conservancy and general familial keystone. Her creatures specialty is Spirits.

Cousins:
Freyr Vaettir

Freyr is Ilia's cousin and her closest family member, they act more like brother and sister than cousins. His father is Tyr, his mother is Eir, and his brother is Ullr. He is about a little over a year older than Ilia.

Ullr Vaettir

Ullr is cousin to Ilia, younger brother to Freyr, and child of Tyr and Eir. He is seven months older than Ilia.

Idunn Vaettir

Idunn is the daughter of Vidarr and Sunna. She attended Beuxbatons and just graduated, she is just under two years older than Ilia.

Parents:
Runa Valke

Runa Valke née Aesir is the wife of Eldric, mother of Ilia, sister of Sunna. She is a professional model and princess. The reason Ilia had to move and bane of her daughter's existence on occasion, but still a loving albeit bossy and demanding mother.

Eldric Valke

Eldric Valke is the father of Ilia, husband of Runa, brother of Eir. He works for the German Ministry in the MLE, though he does not discuss his work openly.

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(On a beautiful Norwegian morning)

It was the first day of summer to greet the Northwind Conservancy. The vast expanses of acreage called the ranch was being touched by the suns warm rays, shining upon the dew that had settled during the night to whisk her away into the sky. Though as early as it was, the family was already up and going. Freyr and Ullr had returned from Durmstrang late last night and Idunn had just returned from Beauxbaton's only an hour ago. Tyr and Vidarr had been up since before the sun, caring for the many creatures that called this place home as well. Vali had returned from a dragon research expedition only two days ago and was already in the middle of helping his brothers care for the scaly beings that resided in their hospitality. Which, of course, left Sunna and Eir with the hard jobs. Breakfast for the small army that they called a family, making sure that their children properly settled in / put away their things / did not destroy any part of the house accidentally......you know....mom things. Also, they awaited their niece and the accompanying children she would be bringing. What chaos would be in their hands this morning?...................

"Thank Merlin for house elves. Do you hear me guys? I love you!!!!" Sunna called around the house. If they hadn't freed/ hired their little troupe of house elves........she would probably be pulling her beautiful hair out this morning. "Don't you just love them Eir?" She asked her sister in her typical bubbly tone as she proceeded to check the house and make sure everything was in order and the guest rooms were ready.

Eir had started making preparations for breakfast and was keeping tabs on the family as she waited for their guests. "Absolutely." She replied absently to her younger sister and made certain that enough places were set at the table. How many children was Runa bringing again? Three? Four? Well she would rather have an extra place than not enough so she added one more. At least they still had time.....and there was always a little extra time when they first arrived. There were bound to be introductions and a lot of noise from excited children. Mostly probably from their sister Runa......and Idunn and the guests....on occasion her sons made a racket too though. Oh well, peace and quiet was not something that this house or ranch or entire facility knew anything about.

---------------------------------------------------

(Elsewhere.....*In London coughcough*)

It was going to be a looooonnnggg morning in Runa's opinion. She was going to be dealing with other people's children......and other people. She wore a very nice dress and made sure she was primped and polished head to toe as per her usual. The model pfft princess always had to look her best, especially when she knew that there were people to impress. Whether or not they were worth impressing would have to wait until she met them. She was a lady of class and taste and no matter who they were, they would know that. Her manners were perfectly polished for this morning only on the outside and she was ready for company. Hopefully her daughter would be less resistant to being in this country now , with her going out of her way for her like this and all.

But seriously, these people had better be punctual. She was not one who enjoyed time wasting.......especially when it wasn't on her.

Ilia had to give her mother some points.....this was a lot for her. She was taking her and her friends to her uncles' for the summer finally and actually doing something nice for Ilia. It had been a rough year and this would be a good change of pace. It was probably too much to hope for things to go back to how they were, but at least this was a start. Now.....where were her people? She needed Henric there especially, the anticipation had her on edge to the point that she had her trunks completely repacked only a few hours after she had gotten back from school.

[Symphora]

Henric with his big bulky haversack on his back and his dufflebag by his side came out from the train feeling both excited and nervous at the same time. He had a broad grin on his face still, looking forward to the prospect of spending his summer break with his friends over at llia's uncle place in Norway.It took him a lot of convincing for his parents to let him go abroad so when they finally said yes, Henric couldn't help express his happiness and hugged them both together. He promised them he would call everyday and always be safe, llia's family would make sure of that.They dropped him off back in Manchester station a few hours ago and now he was making his way through the crowd of people towards his designation in London. He was told to meet them here...but where were they?

Henric stood on his tip toes, hoping to find his bestfriend among the busy station. It only took him a few minutes before he could finally spot her! llia was standing beside a woman who he assumed must be Mrs.Valke! There was no doubt he would mistake her for anyone else besides her daughter.He waved excitedly towards then as he approached closer,"Hi llia! I'm here finally!" He put down his duffle bag and the next thing he knew he was engulfing her in a tight hug. What? He missed his bestie! He pulled away quickly when he realised what he just did right in front of her mother. He cleared his throat and formally introduced himself to the mumsie."Hi Mrs Valke, I'm Henric, llia' bestfriend, its really nice to finally meet you in person,thank you for bringing us there,"he smiled.

[FearlessLeader19]

It didn't take Adi much time to convince his parents that a trip to Norway was something he needed to do. It involved magical creatures and they knew how much those meant to him. Besides, they knew Henric and he had told them all about Ilia. AJ was with him too. The two had met up and travelled to the train station together. Actually, his father let him drive since Adi had just gotten his licence.

He waved to his dad as the man drove off then turned to AJ. "Come on, baby. Let's find Henny and Ilia.'' Where were those two? Adi swapped his specs for his shades and began scanning the crowd. Where, where... oh! THERE! "I see them!'' He pointed in his friends' direction before adjusting the bag on his shoulder and taking off.

"Heeeey, guys!'' He good naturedly punched Henric on his shoulder and hugged Ilia. The woman with them could only be her mother. "Hi, Mrs Valke! It's good to finally meet you.'' She got a warm, grateful smile from him. "Thanks for putting up with us.'' Oh yeah! He almost forgot to introduce himself. "I'm Adi and this is my girlfriend AJ.''

Could they get this show on the road? Adi was literally bouncing with energy and excitement.

[VRSCIKA]

Ilia had been keeping her eyes out, looking for her best friend and her other best friend. She was so excited that this was finally happening , she was actually smiling slightly as she looked around. It seemed like an eternity, though in reality it had probably only been about fifteen minutes , but the boy she had been waiting for finally came across the station with his bulky bags. Their eyes seemed to meet at the same moved as he waved excitedly to her and she returned the gesture. Barely a moment passed before she was in his arms and they were squeezing each other tight. She didn't care that her mother was watching, she would have to get over it. This was her bestie and that was that. She didn't want to let him go, but she did....

Runa shifted her weight from one foot to the other as she waited, her shimmery champagne glittery heels shining with each movement. She smoothed her white dress elegantly and ran a hand through her long blonde hair. It was certain exactly where her daughter got her looks and some of her mannerisms from by watching the tall model. She saw a shabbily attired urchin with a bunch of unwieldy looking bags and did her best to keep her expression from dropping. This child that was excitedly approaching her progeny....looked rather mugglish. She coughed quietly as they embraced happily in front of her.....that was a little too much touching her child thank you! THIS muggle seeming child was her daughters best friend!? This was NOT ideal..... When he released Freya and looked up at her with an introduction , she nodded her head gracefully. "Nice to meet you, Henric." She gave him a saccharin smile as she sweetened her voice to keep the venom out. She was very good at faking nice even when she was disgruntled inside.

Her was being nice, but knowing her like she did....she could tell she was less than impressed with her best friend upon initial meeting. Thankfully Adi showed up to diffuse the situation with his greeting. She smiled and hugged Adi and nodded politely to Aj. Adi was so polite to her mother she smiled with relief. That should make her a little happier at least.

Runa was distracted from the scruffy waif in front of her as two more children arrived. His hugging of her child was a little different and he was less.....muggle looking. He brought a girlfriend? Runa automatically registered him as no threat with what he had to say and smiled slightly more genuinely at him. Putting up with them....this boy had no idea....or rather maybe he did. "Nice to meet you two." She said with a graceful nod. Giving them all a moment she then clasped her delicate hands together."All right then, now that we are all here, follow me." She lead them off to a small, quiet back alley hidden from view. "I am going to presume that you have all traveled by portkey before?" After all, what wizarding child hadn't?

Ilia nearly giggled at Adi's comment. Putting up with them? If her mother showed some of her true colors they would realize it might honestly be putting up with her. She followed her mother and walked down the alley. Back alleys were unlike her mother , but she had picked quiet possibly the cleanest one in all of London. Looking around at the rubbish bin and the small bit of debris around it, she wondered what would be their portkey. Then a thought struck her.........had Henric used a portkey before?

[Symphora]

Henric internally sighed with relief when both Adi and AJ had finally arrived. He gave a jab back on Adi's shoulder before stepping aside for him so he could hug llia,"Great, you guys are here!"he exclaimed. He didn't forget AJ of course and waved excitedly over to her too. He was so glad he didn't have to stand awkwardly here in front of llia's mother for long. Henric wasn't stupid, he knew when he was being heavily scrutinised. He had been for a long time ever since he was adopted in the Nicolei's family and even more so when he got both his ears pierced...but hey, he wasn't a bad kid! Hmph...between the facade of a smile she put on and the snarky look she threw at him, Henric couldn't decide which one was more hideous on her beautiful face. Pity...

He could only smile back and didn't think of anything else besides being happy that he had all of his favourite people gather around him right now. Anyway, it was time to go! Henric walked beside llia as they followed behind her mother to a back alley somewhere where they would be hidden from view. Mrs Valke asked them if they had used a portkey before,he answered,"Yeah, we did...we went to Scotland for a school excursion and used the portkey before, right guys?"He gave Adi a pleading look, he hoped Adi didn't mention his embarrassing tumble at the end in front of Mrs.Valke. Ahem.

[MudInMyBlood]

The fact that her parents let her go away to another country with her boyfriend was amazing. It took loads of pleading, blood, sweat, and tears but AJ finally got her way. She was fifteen years old now, and that was clearly old enough to be able to go off on her own. At least in AJ's eyes it was. Really, the thing that saved her was that she wasn't going to be the old one there, and there was adult supervision. Thank goodness for Ilia too because if it were all boys she doubt she would be here right now. Not to mention she was supposed to call home practically every day, but that wasn't going to happen. Every once in awhile, sure, but everyday? No. She wasn't a baby okay!

AJ followed Adi over to where Ilia stood with her mom? Yeah, had to be her mom, and Henric. "Hey guys." Everybody got a huge smile from her. "It's a pleasure to meet you ma'am, and thanks for having us." Yeah, it had already been said, but she felt like it should come from her mouth too. It really was nice of them.

Portkey. This was going to be fun. Hopefully she wouldn't fall on her face, and make a total fool of herself because that was always a possibility. "Yeah, we are familiar with them." Thank goodness for school field trips otherwise AJ would have been completely lost. For some reason she really wanted to impress Ilia's mom. Speaking of her mom, wasn't she gorgeous? Look at her dress! Meanwhile, AJ was in converse, jeans and a black t-shirt. Yeah, she was really a boy at heart.

[FearlessLeader19]

LOL. Henric was poking back. Did he know the endless amount of fun that awaited him over the course of the days that they would be at Ilia's? Especially now that Adi could do magic out of School "Wouldn't miss it for the world, Henny!'' He watched Henric and Ilia getting all smiley with each other and smirked. The Aparecium seemed to have been on something all along. He WILL remember to tease Henric about this new development. Mwahahaha!

Adi smiled broadly at Ilia's mother. She seemed to be a nice woman... unless she had a ton of hidden bad habits or something. But he wasn't here for her. He was here to see the creatures! Wheee! The Hippogriffs! He could hardly wait. He now nodded enthusiastically at the woman. "Yep, Mrs Valke.'' He had used one with his mother years ago and during the summer trip last year. Adi noticed the look Henric was giving him and it took him a while to figure out that the boy was referring to his less than grand entrance at the destination after using the Portkey. "All secrets are safe with me,'' he whispered.

The Puff kept up beside AJ as they followed Iia's elegant looking mother. Another summer with his girl... he was beyond happy. And he was also among two of his closet friends plus he would be seeing creatures soon. Yep! This was going to be one of the best summers ever!

[VRSCIKA]

At least all of the children had manners, even the boy with the earrings had some form apparently.... Well what do you know, the child wasn't completely muggle after all. At least he knew what a portkey was......She was half suspecting him to ask what it was in the first place. The well to do seeming boy and the tomboy girl knew what it was it seemed , which she was less surprised about. She smiled at them and nodded gracefully. "Well then, you will all know what to do."

Drawing her wand from a hidden holster in her dress sleeve she used a levitating spell to raise a bicycle tire to view , from behind the rubbish bin. It was impeccably clean for being near the trash. Of course, there was no way Runa would ever unnecessarily get her lovely hands dirty or play in rubbish for any reason. "Come Freya." She beckoned her daughter to her side as she levitated their portkey between the five of them.

"Prepare yourselves, on the count of three." She looked to make sure that they were all able to grab the portkey and nodded. "Three......Two.......One." She grabbed ahold and off they went. No one had better let go.

Ilia breathed a little in relief once Henric said that he had , in fact, used a port key before. She knew that her mother would look down on him if he hadn't. She watched her mother bring the portkey out and close, a shiny clean wheel from a muggle contraption she had enchanted earlier. She heard her mother call her by her first name again and tried not to sigh. It was so formal and in front of her friends, she knew her mother wouldn't call her by her middle name though. 'You should love, embrace, and embody your name! You are going to be a beautiful goddess, now start acting like it.' She had heard it dozens of times before.

Alright, it was finally time. As soon as her mother finished the count down, she reached out and grabbed the portkey. The sensation settled in but she kept her eyes on Henric as they were thrown for a loop.

Upon reaching their destination, Runa let go and took her daughter's hand as they gracefully descended, landing on their feet strolling easily. How did the children fair? An face plants or landing upon their backsides?

[Symphora]

"Thanks, Adi!"Henric thought, mentally sighing in relief. He noticed Mrs.Valke called her daughter by her first name, he wondered if the others found it odd as well.He shrugged and watched in awe when Mrs.Valke levitated a bicycle tire from behind a rubbish bin. He blinked, this would be their portkey? How ordinary....but utterly BRILLIANT! The perfect cover for their journey through space-time continuum...whatever that means. He knew muggles would call this the "Teleportation Device of the Century" as quoted by his dad. He nodded along with the others as they prepared themselves for the ride. He glanced back at llia and gave her a reassuring smile.

Henric grabbed hold of llia's hand at the last moment as they were all thrown into the whirling vortex. MERLIN help him! Everything was spinning around so fast, Henric couldn't keep hold onto llia's hand for long as he was tossed back in the air.Oh nooo...not again! Henric fell flat onto his face and into the mud with a loud *SPLAT* It took him a second before he realised what just happened.
"Urgh...stupid mud..."Henric groaned as he wiped the mud off his eyes. It was his third time on the portkey, he should be able to land on his feet by now!

[FearlessLeader19]

Did Mrs Valke always call Ilia by her first name? Adi tilted his head, wondering. But then it was Portkey time and Adi was all set! He couldn't wait to see what object Ilia's mother had chosen. All he could see was thrash around the place... oh, there it was apparently. A cycle's tyre. Cool! He gathered around with the others and when Mrs Valke counted down, he was all set, his hand already clutching the tyre.

Annnnnd they were off!

The familiar sensation of using a Portkey took over Adi as they all whooshed to their destination. His feet SLAMMED into the ground. "OUCH!'' The Hufflepuff wobbled for a second, trying to regain his balance. He tried to reach for someone to steady himself but ended up being distracted by Henric.

HAHAHAHAHA!

Adi started laughing so hard that he himself overbalanced and landed with a soft thud on his butt though thankfully not in the mud. "Mud boy,'' he whispered to Henric, not wanting to embarrass his friend in front of Mrs Valke. "You alright?'' Adi had regained his composure though his feet still hurt a tad at the soles. Oh well. He could get over that. He held out a hand to Henric. "Up you get, Henny.'' Also, were AJ and Ilia okay?

[VRSCIKA]

Ilia strolled gracefully from the air to the ground as did her mother, holding her hand and walking side by side. Hopefully though , her mother did NOT just see what Ilia did. Her bestie, face planting in mud. She was wincing internally and wanted to run over to him. She knew if she did though that would alert her mother and she would probably have something not so nice to say about it. If she could do non verbal friend cleaning that would be useful right now.....

At least Adi landed!....well....sort of..... He seemed to have laughed himself over and Ilia held back a small smile. That would have actually been a funny situation if she wasn't concerned with her mom over her shoulder. Her mom being her escort was a necessary evil though......

Runa had been concerned with herself being fabulous and making certain that Freya didn't do anything clumsy. Perfect landing as usual, good girl. There was the other girl.... By the time she had looked over, to check on the boys, Adi and Henric were no longer muddy or laughing but she still could tell that the younger boy had fallen, and gave him a small smirk as she walked by. So much for using one before.She turned to look at all of them with her perfect little smile. "Alright then ladies and gentleman, if we are all together then, lets move shall we? Follow close, don't lose me."

She began walking forward with her head held high, into seemingly a vast open field. She took another quick step forward and disappeared into an invisible barrier. Who would follow instruction without hesitation?

[FearlessLeader19]

Adi helped Henric up and used magic to non verbally remove the mud from his friend. Poor Henny. He must be feeling so embarrassed in front of Mrs Valke and Ilia. All he knew was that his fellow Puff had no reason to feel that way in front of him. Who says they had to always had to have a great landing? Oh yes, Mrs Valke. He had caught sight of that smirk. Not for the last time, Adi wondered how someone so nice as Ilia had been born to this pompous and perfection seeking person. Don't get him wrong, he was grateful the woman wanted them to her place but couldn't she realise not everyone was as 'perfect' as her?

"Come on, guys.'' Adi took off after Mrs Valke to a huge field. WOAH! So COOL! "Where are the Hippogriffs?'' he couldn't stop himself from asking Ilia excitedly. He was here to see those. Bring on the Griffs! Silly Adi. Didn't he realise they were not actually at the Reserve as yet? Hehe.

[Symphora]

His face flushed from his embarrassing fall but he was determined not to show it to them. It was not surprising that Adi would mention the mudboy nickname he came up with during their Lochness Summertrip last term. He still rolled his eyes at him anyway. "Thanks...I'm alright."he muttered a reply, a slight relief could be seen on his face. He took Adi's offered hand and brushed himself off from the dust. Fortunately the mud that was on him earlier was magically removed before Mrs.Valke could notice anything. Whoever did that, he wanted to give him/her a kiss straight away! Ehem. He wasn't sure if it was llia who did or Adi. If it was Adi, his big shiny forehead would simply do.

Oh dear...he chuckled,you could never separate Adi and his hippogriffs."Don't worry Ad, we'll see them soon! I can't wait to see the dragons too! Merlin, this is exciting!" he exclaimed. He was so eager to meet a full size one! But first thing first, could they just take a moment to admire nature here. Henric couldn't help notice the surroundings around them. It was really breathtaking! He took in the cool fresh air while enjoying the warmth from the sun felt on his skin.Yup. He was loving their summertrip already.

Ohh... it seemed that they weren't at llia's uncle reserves just yet and they were told to stick close by each other. But why? There was noone around to see them, only and open vast fiel-...WOAH. O.O Where did Mrs.Valke go? She was just there a few seconds ago but now she was gone! Worried, he grabbed hold onto the back of llia's shoulders. "Where did your mum go?!" he asked. This was an entirely new experience for him so it could be a little overwhelming on his part. So his first reaction was to stand as close to llia as possible.

[VRSCIKA]

Ilia felt a little sick to her stomach, not from the portkey travel , but from the reaction her mother had. It wasn't blatantly visible, but she knew better than to think it wasn't there.

Adi had no reservations whatsoever and Ilia smiled widely at him and giggled softly. "Once we are settled in, we can take a tour." They would have to set their bags up in their given rooms, introductions......though she knew Adi would rather see the creatures now and do all the human type niceties later. Her family was generally too formal for that though. Henric was excited about dragons and thankfully not upset with her, because of her mother. At least not that she could tell.

Her mother passed through the barrier before them and Ilia straightened herself out, knowing that meant they were not far. Before she could move or say a word though, she felt Henric's hands on her shoulders. Her face got a soft tinge of pink as she looked back at him. Oh, had he not seen a barrier like this before?

She smiled reassuringly up at her best friend. "On the other side." Her mother was probably watching them, so she refrained from holding his hands like she wanted to. "It is a perimeter barrier. No one can see it from the outside and no muggle can get near it or through it. The only way in, is to know where it is, and to be invited." As she thought about it, she supposed few places would need so many barriers and enchantments around them so it probably wasn't all that surprising that Henric was surprised.

"In we go?" She walked forward, taking one of Henric's hands in her own and doing her best not to blush. She looked back at Adi and Aj, making sure that they were following. Stepping through the invisible and intangible barrier, she didn't let go of Henric's hand for even a moment. Before them stood her mother, waiting with her hands on her hips.

Runa could see them through the barrier as she watched. Unsurprisingly, muggle boy hadn't seen where she had went. Pretty predictable the boy was it seemed, why by Circe's staff her daughter had chosen this child to befriend she didn't understand. Hopefully it wouldn't last, she didn't appreciate how closely he stood to her Freya, nor did she like how comfortable her child seemed to be with it.

She stood with her hands on her hips as she waited for them. Beside her was a handsome and impressive carriage imbued with runes across the body of it, winged designs for an elegant flare. It was manned by two house elves to guide them to the manor and four thestrals. The magnificent beasts stood tall with lustrous jet black coats and manes and a wingspan longer than Runa was tall. Truly an impressive sight to see, for those that could , in fact, see them. Runa could not, though she knew that they were there.

[FearlessLeader19]

Rolled eyes from Henric only made Adi grin like crazy. Oh, Henny. Surely you would used to all the merciless teasing. LOL! "It's not a problem, man. I'll try my best to save you from mud for the rest of the trip.'' #SavingHennysButtFromMudSince2086 Smirking, his thoughts turned to Hippogriffs again at the sight of the open field. This would be a great spot for having a Hippogriff race. One on the ground, of course. Shh! Don't tell Mrs Valke. Adi had the suspicion she would not approve.

He, at that moment, caught sight of Ilia. "Hey, you alright?" he asked with concern and shifting a little closer to his friend. She looked a bit off. But she was giggling so maybe thing weren't so bad. YAY! "I look forward to that. First stop will be the Griffs, right?''

Adi watched Henric and Ilia, smirking even more. It was quite clear to him what was going to eventually happen between his friends even if they weren't aware of it. It had been the same for him and AJ. Smirking even more at Ilia's pink cheeks and their hand holding, Adi followed them through the barrier after letting AJ go first. At least barrier didn't hamper him unlike the one between Hogwarts and the Forbidden Forest.

Adi stood there, regarding Ilia's mother. Gosh, she looked so strict. Didn't she ever lighten up? He had a feeling he had to warn Henric about being wary when the woman was around. Uh huh. He saw the way she was looking at his friends. But he was soon distracted by the awesome carriage there. Woah! AND HOUSE ELVES!!!! "Hiiii,'' Adi happily greeted the creatures. He loved House elves! And... ''Are there thestrals there?'' he asked uncertainly. He wasn't able to see them, you see.

[Symphora]

Henric shushed him quickly,"Shhh...don't let them hear you...especially about the summertrip...ehem." Mudboy was one thing but there was another thing he wouldn't want Adi to mention as well. Yes...and that would be his secret crush with his older Hufflepuff housemate, Leah, back then.He would get a mini heart attack if his buddy let it slipped anything to llia about them two. Henric remembered Adi used to tease him quite a few times about it during their 2086 summer field-trip.He hoped to merlin that his friend wouldn't forget their non-existent puff's bro code. "Fineee...but nothing else about the summertrip...deal?"he whispered and quickly put up a fist to Adi with an eye-brow raised, if he understood what he meant by this...Adi would fist-bump back to seal the deal. It wasn't that he didn't trust Adi, he just didn't want to...y'know made things more complicated than it seemed especially now that he had fond-feelings for his bestfriend.

"Oh! Is that so! Uh...I thought some space aliens grabbed your mom...uh what I m-mean to say is,llia...it could happen...especially in this big open field." He grinned sheepishly towards her.Blame it on his sci-fi movie addiction. Heheh. Imagine her mum did get alienapped! Woo O.O *Wishful thinking*

"But I must say, this is really cool!" Nope, it was mind-boggling! Since this would be his first time visit to a wizarding family house, Henric couldn't help but be in awe. He hide his own blush by nodding his head enthusiastically,"Yeah, let's go!" He followed behind her and stepped into the invisible wall, holding her hand as if it was the natural thing to do for them.

Oh merlin! What is thisssss! A carriage and hoouseelves too?! He blinked as if he couldn't believe his eyes. "Hello there," he greeted fascinated to see houseelves that weren't Hogwarts owned. Wait...he turned his head to the side and finally noticed the thestrals too! Oh wow! It was like the ones they had in Hogwarts! Oh...should he tell them he could see them? Umm...maybe not...he didn't want to alarm his friends but to answer Adi's question, there were definitely thestrals! 4 to be exact. Henric didn't realise he had gripped llia's hand tighter as he quietly stared up at the menacing looking beasts.

[VRSCIKA]

Adi asked her if she was alright and it caused her a little pang of emotion. He was really observant wasn't he? Or had she simply been too obvious? Either way, she brushed off the concern with a smile. She couldn't really tell Adi what was wrong with her mother around , so it was easier to just smile. "Of course it will. I'll talk to Uncle Vidarr about it." She nodded in assurance.

What Henric had to say next, made her give him a puzzled look but she started to giggle. "Space....aliens.....?" What would make him think something like that? Oh wait! Was that a joke? Did she just miss the joke like in astronomy class? "Did you hang out with Professor Flamsteed too much last term?" They did have detention together after the whole Pebbles incident.....

At least he and Adi both seemed excited and enthusiastic. Ilia waved to the house elves with a small smile as the boys greeted them. "Hello Podry. Hello Nilly." Yes, her mother might roll her eyes, but Ilia knew each of the house elves by name and was rather friendly with them.

As for Adi's question, she smiled happily at him and nodded. "There are four of them." Since he had to ask, that meant that he couldn't see them....while she was sad that he couldn't see the magnificent beasts before her, she was also glad because that meant he had not suffered the price it required. Having felt Henric's grip tighten on her hand, she could tell that he saw them and she absentmindedly rubbed her thumb over his hand as reassurance. He could follow her if he wanted to and keep a hold of her hand, but she was greeting the creatures. Walking up so that she was facing them, she reached up to stroke the neck of one of the lead Thestrals. " Hello Leaxal , I missed you." She also looked over to the other three with a smile. " Hello Piotral , Freman, Drocian.....I missed you too."

It was about time that the children stopped dallying and joined her. She watched them all as they entered the barrier and looked at the carriage in awe. It was rather impressive, wasn't it? She was very certain that Freya's 'best friend' *coughcoughmuggle* had never seen anything that expensive or well crafted in his short little life. Especially judging by his expression.

Were all of the children wasting time greeting house elves? Seriously? They were the chauffeurs, what was the point in that? "You sound like your Aunt Sunna." Runa said to her daughter as she crossed her arms and waited for the greeting ritual to be over. She knew that they had so many house elves here because of her sister wanting to have them all 'free' and 'employ' them.....to which Runa just didn't get the difference other than they were often dressed like creepy little muggles rather than having sacks on.

'Adi' she was pretty sure that was what the boy went by couldn't see them either. At least she wasn't the only one, from what she gathered they were not the most lovely things to look at anyway so she didn't feel that she was missing much. She and her husband had been face to face with one of the creatures before, listening to her husband describe the beast before her had given her chills and she didn't care to think about them much. She couldn't see them, but that meant that she didn't have to see them nor did she want to. "Alright, let us go Freya. We are being waited upon....." If they tarried much longer she expected Eir to send a message after them.

Podry and Nilly were doing as the lady master boss asked them to and taking the carriage to get the lady boss's niece and her friend people. Waiting with the lady boss's sister was not a very good time, she was not a happy boss person.....Not ever. Nilly was very nervous to be around her, but it wasn't as bad with Podry there too. Podry was excited that there would be little master ...er...boss....type people again! Some of them were already in the home, but now there would be more! There were always happenings when the little boss people were around. Look, these ones were saying hello to Podry and Nilly too!!! Not like boss lady's sister....."Hello little human people and little boss lady Ili-....Freya !" Podry waved and bounced. If he called her the name she liked in front of boss lady's sister he would get the eye of evil and he did not want that, no. "H-e-e-llo-o m-mist-ers- and m-m-miss-es." Nilly greeted shyly and nervously as she stood with happy Podry.

[FearlessLeader19]

Adi wasn't that silly. He knew how much Henric wanted to look good before Mrs Valke even if he didn't say so. He himself had been under the same pressure when he first met AJ's parents. "I won't.'' He peered down at the folded fist being held out, his eyebrow slightly raised. "Having doubts about that?" Sureeee, he could get used to his friends not trusting him fully. Adi bumped the fist back. "I'll do what I can,'' he said vaguely and teasingly.

LOL though! Aliens grabbing Mrs Valke. Excuse the older Hufflepuff as he laughed himself silly. He could bet Henric would like that to happen for real.
....................

Adi eyed Ilia. She did know she could talk to him about ANYTHING, right? "Alrightey but if you need to talk, I'm here.'' She had Henric but this dude was always around. He nodded at the mention of her uncle. It seemed like uncle Vidarr was the man to go to for Griffs.
....................

Podry and Nilly were the names of the Elves. Awwh, little boss lady they called Ilia! He found that a cool name for her. Adi grinned at the elves. Was it him or was one of them nervous? That was probably Mrs Valke's doing. Her presence seems to bring all the nerves. If the elf wasn't nervous, she was probably over excited or something.

He watched Ilia stroke what looked like air to him. Heh. Adi wished he could have seen Thestrals and though he had a fascination with death (hence his grim reaper tattoo), he was sure he never wanted to see anyone die. Henric's reaction made him think that his friend could see them too. Should he be happy or sad for his friends that the creatures were visible to them?

Mrs Valke interrupted his thoughts at that moment. Oh yeaaah. They needed to get going.

[Symphora]

Henric shook his head,”Nope...no doubts at all.” He trusted Adi with his dragoncards,comicbooks,videogames and manchester united merchandise collection.Believe him, that meant more to him than life itself.Haha! He was kidding,of course.Right...putting all jokes aside,Henric nodded seriously at Adi,”Thanks man..I’m counting on you.” For now, he was safe to know that he could count on his precious friends with most of the wizarding things he didn’t know about. Henric didn’t want to embarrass himself in front of Mrs Valke...honestly, he wasn’t comfortable being single out as the odd one in the group.

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Henric chuckled at llia’s comment,”No,of course not...I was thinking it could really happen you know,aliens might appear out of nowhere...we never know.” Highly plausible. He believed they were out there hiding...and waiting...to launch an attack on Earth one day! MWAHAHA! Okaay...he should really stop watching these movies...seriously Henric.

Wait...llia could see them?! He blinked for a second towards her.But what about Adi and AJ? Could they see the thestrals too? He turned to see their facial expressions as well...and judging from their blank stares, they could not. Henric didn’t know what to feel...except...relieved that he wasn’t the only one that could see them. He needed to talk to his friends soon. He had never told anyone why he could see them, he thought it was better to bury the pain he kept deep in his heart. He ought to tell them the truth one day but it would need to wait until they reached llia’s uncle place. He had never seen anyone pet a thestral before and it was an unbelievable sight to him... truly. However, he wasn’t sure if he would want to get any closer to the thestrals though, afraid that they would bite his hand if he did. And so he opted to just watch llia stroked its neck and calling for each of their names lovingly.

It was time to go now. They were going to ride the bedazzling carriage to the reserves! Henric couldn’t wait, he hoped llia’s family weren’t as cold-looking like her mother was towards him. He turned his attention back to the house-elves again,”Please..just call me Henric...really nice to meet you all,”he smiled as he extended his hand towards them. They seemed so nice!

[VRSCIKA]

Ilia smiled as Adi said that he was always there if she needed to talk. He was one of the few people that she trusted and it made her happy to have such a dear friend in her life. "You are my other best friend, I'll never forget that you are there."

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Aliens could appear out of nowhere.......she sort of blinked at him for a moment and shook her head a little. "I think Professor Flamsteed would like that answer." As much as the thought of her mother abducted might please her some days......

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Her mother started to fuss at her so she completed her greeting to the Thestrals and smiled to Nilly and Podry as she hopped into the magnificent plush interior of the grand carriage. She sat like a proper , obedient lady and simply smiled quietly at the boys. She knew that her mother would sit beside her and that her friends would have to sit across from them.....hopefully her mother would tuck her glare away and just enjoy the ride.

It took them all long enough....... It was a good thing that she liked the magnificence of the carriage and that her daughter was behaving. Runa tucked her fangs back in and smiled her saccharin sweet way , watching the children absently most of the fifteen minute carriage ride to the entrance.

It was right about time, so Eir stood at the entrance before the manor, waiting on her family and their guests. Runa she could do without....but she missed her niece and her sons missed their cousin. She could handle Runa for a few days maximum to have Freya for a few weeks.....it was a fair enough trade. And, here came the carriage.

Sunna stood beside her sister / sister in law as she waited excitedly for her blood sister and niece. How big had Freya gotten by now? And what was taking Nilly and Podry? Runa better be nice......Her thoughts were interrupted by the sight of the carriage. She bounced just a little, and waved her arms. About time! She couldn't contain her excitement guys!

The wheels of the carriage came to a stop and she took in the view of the immaculate manor home of Northwind Ranch. A mansion of a house, large and impressive, as immaculate as the carriage that carried them there. Room enough for their entire family, staff, house elfs and more, Ilia always thought of it as a bit of a palace when she was young. Memories of Idunn, her mother, and her Aunt Sunna dressing her as a princess when she was little came flooding in. And there were her aunts waiting. Eir, pleasant but stoic as usual and Sunna bubbly and bouncy as she tended to be. She smiled at her friends as she exited the carriage and bowed to her aunts, keeping things lady-like and formal. She spoke to them in Norwegian , her accent very apparent when she stopped using English.

Runa exited the carriage like she owned the place, flipping her long blonde locks and smiling at her sister and not-sister. At first she spoke in Norwegian, going over all of the polite greetings and explaining the trip, apologizing for the time also while shifting the blame politely off onto Henric. Though she didn't use his name so unless the boy spoke Norwegian he wouldn't know it. Then excusing herself and explaining that their guests were British, she shifted to English. "Thank you for having us again sisters, I will introduce our young guests. This is one of Ilia's class friends Adi." She indicated the boy politely. "And this is her other friend 'Henry'." She was still somewhat polite, but with much less fanfare and yes, she knew she got his name 'wrong'. It sounded more appropriate that way.

[FearlessLeader19]

With the mental note that Ilia was another of his best friends and that he had to keep saving Henric from mud (and Merlin knew if anything else), Adi climbed into the carriage. Mrs Valke might loose his temper and shout at them if they delayed and he didn't want that. He settled comfortably and happily in as though he were in his own home. Well, who was to say he was not? He was with Henric and Ilia so he was allowed to be laid back more than usual.

The Puffer really did enjoy the ride but he stared slightly open mouthed at the Mansion as it came into sight. "Probably a zillion times the size of my house,'' he told Ila jokingly. It was a beautiful mansion. He followed Mrs Valke out when they came to a halt, lingering with his friends and not at all feeling out of place as the woman spoke to some others in their native tongue. "Pssst. Ilia, you have to give me some lessons about Norwegian traditions and the language.'' Yep! Because he wanted to learn a bit too!

Adi now grinned at the pretty women as he and Henric were introduced. And did Mrs Valke just blame Henric for their slight lateness? He shot his buddy an amused look before saying 'HI!' to both ladies. Great Hippogriffs and Dragons! Haha! Henric had a new name... Henry.

[Symphora]

Henric went up onto the carriage after his friends. Once inside, he cast a small grin towards llia before settling down across from her. Wow, even the seats were excellent. So bouncy! *bounce bounce*

"Yeah, I would love to learn the language and culture too! I think it will be great! But honestly guys, I'm looking forward to the food more than anything right now." He grinned sheepishly. His stomach was grumbling a little...sorry. Henric glanced outside the window to see the magnificent mansion that came into view. He blinked. Woaahh...he never seen a house anything this big before in his life. A mansion? It looked more like a grand castle! Henric couldn't help but gulp at the scenery in front of him.

Soon, they came into a stop. Henric got out first and waited for them. Suddenly, llia spoke Norwegian to her family members as soon as she alighted. She sounded pretty amazing! Oh right, this wasn't the time to be distracted by her accent. Ehem. Right now, they were introduced by llia's mother. He stood rigidly in front of llia's family members. They were all quite extraordinarily good-looking too! Whaa. Her aunts especially!

Wait...Mrs.Valke called him Henry? Umm no. Did she do that on purpose? Hmm. He shot back a look towards Adi, not you too man. "Its Henric actually. Hello, its nice to finally meet you in person,"Henric smiled.

[VRSCIKA]

A zillion times the size of his house? "Its bigger than my house too." She smiled at Adi, he wasn't the only one who thought the place was huge. She needed to give him lessons? And Henric wanted them too? "Alright, I will later, for both of you." She smiled brightly and politely. Her most polished manners were always used around her family, especially her particular mother.

Ilia nearly cringed as she heard her mother call Henric , Henry. She was pretty sure that it was deliberate, but it could be hard to tell with her mother. She tried to just smile through it and then smiled brightly and bowed to her aunts, happy to see them again.

Eir was not particularly amused by her sister in law's excuse or introduction, and her face remained stoic as she observed. Unimpressed was probably the best description for her expression. Though, it was not directed at the children however. She calmly replied in Norwegian, that Runa was the adult here and responsibility lay with her. She then simply brushed the matter aside and took in the two newcomers. "Greetings Adi and Henric. I welcome you to Northwind Ranch. I am Eir Vaettir, head of household and healer. If you need anything while you are here, I am to whom you are to come speak. Should you need letters to your family , different possessions....really anything not related to the creatures of this facility, come to me. If you are uncertain of my whereabouts, simply speak to the nearest elf and they can direct you or summon me. I insist that you follow all of our rules and enjoy your time spent here." She spoke clearly and with authority , though not unkindness. Her expression was pure calm and stoicism.

She loved her sister, but wanted to sigh at her introduction. Seriously can't everyone just get along here? She smiled bright and bubbly at the two boys, a complete opposite to her sister and sister in law. "Welcome Adi and Henric! I'm Sunna Vaettir , you can just call me Sunna or Aunty." Big ol smile here! "I'm the house elf manager, guest relations manager, and head over the kitchens and such. If you need emotional support, elf help, just general help, or just need a chat you talk to me okie day?" They were adorable boys! <3 She wanted to just hug them!

Runa somewhat wanted to scoff at her sister in law but simply ignored her commentary. "Do you two do this to every guest?" She smiled a bit cheekily and shrugged as she calmly waited for them to enter the manor.

Eir seriously.....had no idea why her brother agreed to marry that woman. She was pretty and all that but.....by Odin's big white beard......She simply ignored Runa and turned back to the children. "Alright, in we go and you can meet the rest of the household and be shown to your rooms." She lead the way and did not expect to have to ask to be followed.

"You're gonna love it here! Wait til you meet our babies! They are right about your age, you'll all get on fabulously!" She pranced her way happily after Eir.

Ilia just gave a big beamy smile to her aunts and ushered the boys into the mansion with her, so happy to be back.....and so ready for her mom to leave.

Freyr had already settled back in home, but he had yet to go out to the paddocks because he was told his cousin Freya was going to be here with friends. The friends could be interesting....and he always wanted to see Freya. He watched from the grand stair case and trotted himself down, flipping his long golden mane back as he joined the group.

Ullr sat beside his older brother on the staircase, a little bit shyer, quietly observing as the strangers came in with his family. Oooohhh there was Ilia though! He hopped down from his hiding spot and stood a bit behind his big tall brother, a safe distance away.

Idunn, was standing in wait , fussing with her pretty hair in the mirror as she waited for the guests. About time! She thought to herself as she heard them enter. "Welcome! Bonjour! Hello hello." She greeted and approached the group sashaying in her fabulous flowery heels.

Eir knew the children would be excited and waiting , but nearly rolled her eyes at her niece. Heels in the house? Really? Whatever at this point. She cleared her throat and stood in the center of the room so that she could eye everyone. "This is the manor house, you will be staying upstairs and the elves will show you to your room. Now, introductions." She would point at everyone in turn. "This is my eldest son, Freyr, that is my younger son Ullr, and that is my niece, Sunna's daughter, Idunn. Children, these are Freya's friends from school, Adi and Henric. Everyone be on your best behavior and enjoy each others company." With that, she concluded and gestured to the elves that had followed them in.

Nilly and Podry listened to Boss Lady Eir's instructions and nodded their heads. "We get the little sirs and miss settled." Podry nodded his head , eager. Nilly....just agreed with Podry and stood by him.

"Okay, so to your rooms, then everyone come down for breakfast! We've got lots of amazing stuff!!! Hop to it kids." She bubbled and saw herself off to the kitchen as the elves she trusted could handle the rest.

Ullr shyly just waved at the newcomers when he was introduced, but stayed silent as he watched.

Freyr bowed politely at his introduction and grinned comfortably. "Pleasure to meet you both, friends from England." He then walked over and engulfed Freya in his arms with a happy smile. "I missed you so much little one. Look how tall you are getting."

Idunn bowed fabulously and dramatically with a super bright smile as she was introduced. "Nice to meet you boys. You'll love it here." She winked at them as she walked closer. Now weren't they CUTE! Freya sure could pick friends hmm??? Were they both single?