Thestrals: To be Feared?
written by Fern Frondfeather
Thestrals are often misunderstood creatures that have become unnaturally rare in the wizarding world at present, this is due in part to the misconceptions surrounding them. I plan to educate in the hope that some of you will come away with a better understanding of these magnificent creatures.
Last Updated
05/31/21
Chapters
4
Reads
763
Chapter 4: Breaking Misconceptions
Chapter 4
Despite all the mystery and obvious connections alike when it comes to the Thestral's reputation in the wizarding world, they are still magical creatures that we have a duty to protect. My aim throughout this book was to break misconceptions about the Thestral, and allow young and old witches and wizards to re-evaluate the way they think about these magnificent beasts.
Speaking in terms of training, it can be done and Thestrals can become very useful and fiercely loyal allies. They should often be kept in herds, although Ossis has always been quite content roaming the outskirts of the Abraxan herd. They do not fare well when met with isolation. Thestrals are adept at flying, they glide more often than they flap and are very quiet which makes them a good form of transportation. Although as noted previously in this book, long distance travelling can be hard on the witch or wizard due to the Thestral's pointy bones and slippery skin.
Understanding their owner, Thestrals will quickly be able to fly them to any place they ask of them. Showing their high intelligence. Holding on to their mane is the easiest way to remain stable whilst flying and it is highly recommended to keep your feet behind the wing joints for better stability. Of course this is all hypothetical, given that the riding of Thestrals is usually illegal, disillusionment charms must be placed on Thestrals at all times to prevent muggles from seeing them. Having many a charm placed on my land however, I am able to ride Ossis and my Abraxan. I must say that Ossis has always been my most patient winged horse to ride.
Whilst many view their connection with death as a sign of evil. I cannot believe that. Death, for one is a necessary part of life. One we all must see, endure and eventually succumb to ourselves. One does not simply see a Thestral through seeing death, you must accept, understand and embrace the notion of death as well. Only then will a Thestral recognise your acknowledgement of one of the most simple and necessary facts of life: Death is inevitable. Only then will they gaze into your eyes as Ossis did for me.
Some may still recoil at the thought of a horse eating flesh, but I simply rebuttal by asking how they feel about their family cat or dog? Or any carnivorous wild beast that must hunt to survive? It is of course no different. Ultimately Thestrals are intelligent and peaceful unless provoked. The issue today is that Thestrals are extremely rare. I have come to the conclusion that it is in part due to their bad reputation which I hope the wizarding world can start to put an end to. One of the first steps to this is education. I do hope this book has helped you to better understand the Thestral and the misconceptions it faces everyday by the wizarding community.
Speaking in terms of training, it can be done and Thestrals can become very useful and fiercely loyal allies. They should often be kept in herds, although Ossis has always been quite content roaming the outskirts of the Abraxan herd. They do not fare well when met with isolation. Thestrals are adept at flying, they glide more often than they flap and are very quiet which makes them a good form of transportation. Although as noted previously in this book, long distance travelling can be hard on the witch or wizard due to the Thestral's pointy bones and slippery skin.
Understanding their owner, Thestrals will quickly be able to fly them to any place they ask of them. Showing their high intelligence. Holding on to their mane is the easiest way to remain stable whilst flying and it is highly recommended to keep your feet behind the wing joints for better stability. Of course this is all hypothetical, given that the riding of Thestrals is usually illegal, disillusionment charms must be placed on Thestrals at all times to prevent muggles from seeing them. Having many a charm placed on my land however, I am able to ride Ossis and my Abraxan. I must say that Ossis has always been my most patient winged horse to ride.
Whilst many view their connection with death as a sign of evil. I cannot believe that. Death, for one is a necessary part of life. One we all must see, endure and eventually succumb to ourselves. One does not simply see a Thestral through seeing death, you must accept, understand and embrace the notion of death as well. Only then will a Thestral recognise your acknowledgement of one of the most simple and necessary facts of life: Death is inevitable. Only then will they gaze into your eyes as Ossis did for me.
Some may still recoil at the thought of a horse eating flesh, but I simply rebuttal by asking how they feel about their family cat or dog? Or any carnivorous wild beast that must hunt to survive? It is of course no different. Ultimately Thestrals are intelligent and peaceful unless provoked. The issue today is that Thestrals are extremely rare. I have come to the conclusion that it is in part due to their bad reputation which I hope the wizarding world can start to put an end to. One of the first steps to this is education. I do hope this book has helped you to better understand the Thestral and the misconceptions it faces everyday by the wizarding community.
