The Thanatos-Misra Family Chronicles
 

Overview

The Thanatos family was always a family of 4 - the patriarch, Renner Thanatos, the twins, Vera and Vasco, and the youngest little cherub, Vesper. But as the kids all began to grow up and leave the nest to go to boarding school to start their magical educations, they also couldn't help but worry about leaving their Papa home all alone by himself.

Which was why in the summer of 2111, the two girls hatched a plan to try to set their Papa up with someone else. They hadn't expected that unsuspecting individual to be Quidditch star, Raju Misra, nor did they expect exactly how well their half thought out plan would truly go.

Now in the summer of 2112, the two men have been together for nearing a year and things have been progressing well. But how well will the kids and Raju mesh together? And will things continue to go well?

Characters
Renner Thanatos - Misra: Kolyander
Raju Thanatos - Misra: FearlessLeader19
Vasco Thanatos - Misra: Kolyander
Vera Thanatos - Misra:Chelliephone
Vesper Thanatos - Misra: Kolyander
Viano Valentino Thanatos - Misra: FearlessLeader19

Other Characters
Feliks Rustokov: Kolyander

This is a CLOSED RP exploring new dynamic of the Thanatos-Misra clan.

Was she excited about a summer holiday? Absolutely. Did she also have reservations about said summer holiday? ... Also absolutely. But they were all purely selfish ones, so she was shoving those down deep into the pit of her consciousness and instead trying to focus on the aforementioned excitement. Which was made far easier as the port safely delivered them into the most wonderful weather. It was summer, so thankfully their home in London hadn't been as dreary and cold, but it was still nothing on the golden sunlight and warm breeze now wafting over her. She didn't even need to continue to cling to her brother, which she had done for the duration of the trip just to make sure she didn't let go of the port. Ports always seemed to make her queasy and she had a bit of an irrationality that she'd just end up.... Letting go of one one day and getting lost in some type of mid port purgatory.

Vasco was the safety net that made sure that wouldn't happen.

Letting go of her twin, hazel eyes surveyed the area as her mouth dropped into a little O. Papa, and Raju, had outdone themselves. The pool was already beckoning to her and the cottage was so adorable and quaint looking! She was ready to go explore already, but she hung back in case it appeared rude, and instead turn her attention to the patriarch at his question. "All good here!" Shockingly, but she was attributing that to the sea breeze. "This place looks awesome!" She added, eyes scanning the area once more.

She could almost forget about the disappointment that she had not been permitted to bring Sass with her. Though, she was quite certain Bryony at the very least would be diligent in ensuring her and Scoot's snakes had plenty of affection. Which speaking of... "Hey, can we rent one of Scoot's namesakes while we're here?" She and Vas were almost of age and trying driving would be terrifying super fun!

The summer break couldn't have come fast enough. A few good weeks of downtime to recuperate from all the studying that had been done for OWLs, was very much needed. What was also very much needed was for the twin to NOT vomit on him please and thanks. Yup, he knew ALLLLLLLL about how she sometimes got an upset stomach from portkey travel and yet, he somehow always ended up being her safeline. No, he wasn't complaining, in fact he rather likes that she still needed him for things such as this but he didn't fancy anyone getting sick all over him as a fun way to jumpstart his vacation.

Thankfully all good things must have been on his side as their feet touched ground and his gaze instantly landed on his sisters. His hold on her remained until she let go of him and even so he still have her a look as if he had to make sure she was alright anyhow. Only then did he check on the littler Thanatos sister who appeared to be just fine and in the best of spirits already. "I'm good." Nothing to worry about here.

It was then that his eyes finally took in his surroundings as much as they could. Which wasn't much really as Vera had gotten his attention already. "Can we? Or at least me? You know I won't crash." Vas grinned over at Vera teasingly. Seriously though, could they?!

The youngest and smallest Thanatos child was by far probably the most excited about this trip. It was impossible for her not to be with how great the summer was already going and it was slowly nearing her birthday! She would finally be thirteen! So what more could she ask for then to be with her family and papa's partner on vacation somewhere nice and warm.

Vesper has been holding onto her papa's hand like normal as the portkey deposited them all right down in the front yard of the most gorgeous cabin she had ever seen. "All good here!" she piped up quickly, looking all around at everything as quickly as she could. "Can we go swimming? Do we get our own rooms? I want to ride one too!" She had all the questions to ask but that didn't stop her from hearing her siblings talking. They all knew it wouldn't be fair if she didn't get to go too, right?!

They all had nothing to worry about, Ren was going to do everything in his power to ensure they all had nothing less than an amazing time. This trip had been planned for them all to grow closer and have a great time. Everything was going to workout perfectly and the kids were going to get to know Raju as well as he did.

At the confirmation that everyone was indeed alright, Ren let go of his youngest. No need to remain holding onto her if she was alright. His dark eyes did however remain on his other daughter for a few extra moments to ensure she wouldn't get sick. Merlin must have been on their side today as all was well! ”Wonderful! Why don't we all head inside and have a look around, get settled and then we can do some swimming if everyone wants to?” With the help of a little magic they would all be unpacked and settled in quickly.

Not even ten minutes. He should've known this question was going to come up but couldn't they wait a little longer? ”Hm, I don't know.. neither of you even have your license yet..” he answered with a semi cheeky tone. The last thing he needed was one of them getting injured.

Listen, her clinginess did tend to be because her brother was a constant sense of security. But also, if she had to vomit on someone's sneakers her brother was a far more entertaining recipient of that than... well, pretty much anyone else. He was safe for the time being however - her stomach was already completely at ease. Which she smiled at the three males in attendance to assure them all of that - feeling Vasco and Papa keeping eyes on her to make sure, she assumed her father had informed Raju as well of the potential calamity so she included him in that as well.

Vesper had then also recovered and was a torrent of questions, which Vera anxiously listened to as well and waited for answers. While she didn't necessarily need her own room, she might have had hopes of mirroring a few people and having some privacy for conversations. Or if not privacy, at the very least not disturbing one of her siblings. But luck was not on her side on that bit as Raju outlined the arrangements. There wasn't any time to be disappointed at the disappearance of previous plans, considering... logically she was probably going to crash in one of her siblings rooms anyways or vice versa. Instead of being a pain, she just kept the smile on her face and slung an arm over Scoot's shoulder. "Sounds good to us! Yeah, let's go in!" She agreed, grabbing her bag (which thank goodness one of the men had done a featherlight charm for her earlier) and swung that over the arm not currently wrapped around the littlest Thanatos. "Instead of swimming straight in the pool though, do you think after we settle we can go down to the beach?" The pool was so close to the house they could swim in that later in the evening, after they'd all worn themselves out.

There was the briefest moment in which Vera was thankful for her brother, until the ultimate BETRAYAL of him excluding her and putting himself as the responsible party, teasing or not, true or not. She glowered at him for a moment, before deciding openly arguing was not going to help their case, so instead she focused on her father. "Actually! You don't need a license to drive a scooter." ... you did have to be at least 18 years of age, but she was going to leave that bit out since they weren't there yet. She grinned over at Raju and his answer too, nearly hearing the slip up of saying they could do whatever they wanted.

Obviously the Quidditch star had learned the kids personalities well enough to know how the elders would have attached to that statement as approval.

Hoisting her bag higher again, she followed along after him into the house. "How many rooms does this place have? Is there a wine cellar? Do we get to drink wine while we're here too? Vas and I are almost of age, you know." Clearly she was planning on trying to get the most out of this trip.

The youngest of the clan may have been bouncing around on her toes in an odd looking circle of excitement as her questions were being answered but that didn't mean she hadn't heard all of the answers. That near slip-up didn't matter to her as she knew she wouldn't be allowed to do everything she wanted as she was hardly a teenager. Very very soon though! Her thirteenth birthday was right around the corner!

As for sharing a room, that didn't bother her in the slightest. In fact, she beamed brightly up at Vera and nodded her head firmly. "Okay!" Her own arm worked its way around her big sisters waist for an affectionate squeeze. There would be no complaints from her on this arrangement. Chances were she would make them all have a slumber party in one of their rooms anyhow so that they could all be together. She knew how much they both loved that!

"Ooooh, the beach! Can we do that instead?!" Right away Vesper was on Vera's side with things. The beach definitely did sound like a lot more fun than the pool that was literally right there in their backyard. Ahem, what was this about not needing a license for this?! There was her curiosity peeked! "Does that mean I get to ride one too?!" Cause clearly they couldn't leave her out of all the fun!

There she went following the adults inside! Bright eyes trying to take everything in all at once.


Honestly, he got it. Not only did he understand but he sometimes even looked forward to her clinginess. As odd as it might sound, it was a sense of comfort for not only her but for him as well. Sometimes a guy just needed his twin sister. Ahem, no one heard him say that. Not that it was a big secret or anything. Anyhow, onto more important topics.

Like, bedrooms. It came as no surprise to him that he would have his own. "I have no problems with that but something is telling me I'll be seeing the two of you tonight anyhow?" Vasco cast a glance at his sister, a grin creeping up onto his face knowingly. There was no way they wouldn't all somehow all end up together, it always happened. It was always the three of them.. usually. Um, most of the time? Which came without saying that the topic of the beach had him nodding his head right away. "I'm game. Maybe we can go surfing?" Or something else equally as fun!

Oh, come on Vera! Did she seriously not know that he was only messing with her?! "Ve!" he laughed, slinging an arm around her shoulders and giving her a gentle nudge in the process (also placing her in the middle since she had Vesper on her other side). "Come on now, you know I'm messing with you. I'd never ride one with you..
he reached to squeeze Vesper's shoulder as he added onto that, "Either of you." How could he? Not when it was something they had been wanting to do for ages!

Letting his arm drop from around Vera, Vasco let everyone else go inside first. Adjusting his bag over his shoulder he let his eyes swing around the large open space a few times taking it all in slowly. "This is wicked, I like the open layout." That was perfect for someone like him who didn't like feeling cramped or all the noise.


What was this?! No push back at all from any of them on the sleeping arrangements? Well this was something a little unexpected but very welcomed and the thankful smile on his face showed as much. "I'm glad everyone's in agreement on that otherwise you can all hash it out on who gets the bedrooms and who gets the couch." Oh, yes, he said that! Would they be leaving things as is or?

Now, now. He had heard that very near slip-up, Raj. And he wasn't about to go looking like the bad guy on the very first day of their vacation. "How about we look into it tomorrow and see what we can do, hm?" There was sure to be age appropriate ones for them all that everyone could agree on. Ren smiled at the boyfriend because clearly the man knew his kids well from all the things he had been told and could agree with him on this, yes?

They wanted to go to the beach? Sure, that was something he could agree to. "I don't see why that would be an issue once we're unpacked and changed." It wouldn't take them very long at all. "What do you think, Raju.. head on down to the beach and see what type of activities they have?" Ren may have given him a knowing look around as this was something they had looked into well into advance and they had perhaps already booked a few different things for them all to try out.

Merry laughter rang out as they all made their way into the cottage. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms and the rest is all an open floor plan with a kitchen, dinning room and living room. Yes, there's a wine but it is locked and only Raju and I know how to get into it." He had made sure of that in advance! Sorry not sorry. "Oh, are you now? Are you sure?" Their papa grinned at his two eldest. "We'll see." He was watching everything he said too! These kids were bound to twist every word to get their way and he knew it.

"Go on and have a look around, get ready for the beach. We'll do some unpacking while you do." With an arm slung around his mans shoulders, Ren led the way towards the back room so they could begin the unpacking with their own things.

If she HAD heard Vasco, she probably would have used those words over him for the rest of their existence. Even if she felt similarly about her brother, that didn't mean she was above lording the fact that he needed her over him. As the sibling that probably had the least to contribute, she had to take her wins when she could okay?

When Scoot's arm snaked around her waist, Vera returned the affectionate squeeze and beamed down at her sister. Any residual disappointment for lack of privacy was fading even further. How could she be at all upset anyways when she'd be bunking with the cutest of little sisters? At Vasco's comment, she met his grin and returned the gaze before giving an agreeing nod of her head. "It's first night of vacation. We have to have a slumber party and make plans for what we want to do for the rest of the trip, right?" Which might also include a detailed plan that she'd probably make Vasco do all the work on (probably per both of their preference) outlining why they should be allowed to do more dangerous activities during this family time. Looking back to her father and Raju at Ren's suggestion for battling over the other areas to sleep in the house, Ve just gave her head a shake. "The arrangements are fine." If they were all going to have sleepovers anyways so they could stay up talking or watching movies or games or... whatever, then maybe they could use the open room anyways for whenever any of them needed to reach out to friends or uh... friends. "We are turning the shared room for tonight though into a massive fort right?" She thought last minute to ask of her siblings, glancing at both of them. That would take some time too after beach - unless they worked on it now - but it was well worth it.

After she'd voiced the suggestion of beach instead of pool, Ve was pleased to hear the enthusiastic responses from the rest of the family at the idea. She even got a 'great idea' from Raju, which made her beam ever so slightly more. She was hoping there was a volleyball court or something down by the water to where she could join in on a local game. Surfing sounded like a ton of fun too, but until she heard the patriarchs responses to that idea she would leave her own request to do that as well off. They WERE clearly pushing the limits pretty far already. But one couldn't really blame the twins for trying to take advantage of that vacation euphoria, could they?

The twin still got a bit of a side eye, before she was cajoled by his exclamation. With her bag held in place by the now weight of his arm around her shoulder, she slipped her open one around his waist and gave Vasco affectionate squeezes this time - the three siblings now connected. As much as they picked and annoyed each other (mainly the older two), she was close to both of them and with all of the activities the men had clearly planned for them Vera was looking forward to a very fun filled vacation. And the fact that it sounded very much liked she and Vasco had won their first request (which was very difficult for her to not drop her mouth open at), she was even more excited.

Disengaging herself from the other two siblings so they could all fit through the door frame, she followed along after Vasco, her eyes taking in the spaciousness of the cottage as she nodded her head in agreement with birdbrains praises. The place did look nice! They'd definitely have a fun and comfortable time here. At the quick declination of her second attempt to get away with someone, Vera just smiled cheekily back at Raju as he reminded almost was a key component to her sentence. She even let out a small laugh when he assured he and Papa would make up for the fact the twins would still not be allowed. Considering the vibe of how many other 'arguments' they might be able to win, she couldn't be too perturbed on this one. "Fair enough." She ended up responding with, before being very ready to take on the suggestion of getting ready for beach and exploring further.

Vera was about to challenge the siblings to racing to the rooms to pick which one they'd sleep in and which one to use for privacy, when she paused and instead turned back to the men ready to go to their own quarters. Skipping over towards them she stood on her taaaaallest tip toes to press a quick kiss to Papa's cheek, before also reaching out and giving Raju an affectionate and appreciative squeeze to the arm. "Thank you." She told them both simply, before giving another beam and turning back around. "Race you guys to the rooms!" She called to the siblings, before the soon to be 17 year old took off through the cottage.

This was why she was... NEVER EVER going to find out. He knew better than to let her hold something like that over his head.

How did he know, how did he know? He just knew his sisters that well. "Sounds like a solid plan to me." Solid as in.. he would be doing most of the planning and keeping track of everything as per usual. That was pretty much his thing anyhow. As for them all turning the spare room into a fort, yeah he was game. "The usual arrangements? I'll work on keeping everything up and you two can set up the sleeping areas?" Since he was still the tallest of the three it just made the most sense for him to work on that area of the fort for them.

So they were heading down to the beach once they had gotten things unpacked. He could handle that. The beach held lots of potential for fun. So much so that he wasn't even really thinking about anything else right now.. well.. except for perhaps the mirror that he happened to have in his bag. Maybe he could sneak in a quick call to someone if he got changed quickly enough before they all headed down to the beach.

Momentarily lost in his thoughts, Vasco almost didn't hear Vera about racing to their rooms. When even had she let go of him?! Uhhhhh... No one mind him right now! After a few blinks he took off after his sisters.


Vesper beamed up at her big sister as brightly as one small girl possibly could manage. If it were up to her, they would always share a room. They always had the very best time together so why not let it be that way constantly? Just like the three of them building an epic fort together. How much fun was that going to be?! "Yesssssssss! This is going to be the best!" Cue immediate bouncing on her feet right where she stood.

"Great! I want to get lots of sun this summer!" What she meant by that was lots of time outside and not burning up like a crisp buuuuut to each their own. "That's a-okay with me! As long as I'm included I don't care how." The almost teenager giggled. If she had to sit on the back of a bike holding onto one of the older men, that was fine by her. If she wasn't allowed at all... well that would be sad but perhaps next time. "Will there be fish in the ocean?" Yeahhhhhh, her mind was right back onto the beach already.

The first thing Vesper did upon being let go so they could all walk through the doorway was stare at everything. "This is so cool! Look at how big it looks!" A huge smile was aimed at Raju and her papa. "This is so great! Vera, wait for me!" Already laughing, she took off running after her older sister not even noticing that Vasco wasn't chasing them right away.


Ren couldn't help but chuckle at how quickly the kids all seemed to agree to the sleeping arrangements. No one would be sleeping out on the couch tonight! It came to no real surprise to him that they wanted to have a slumber party in one of their rooms on the first night. "That's fine, this is a vacation after all so if you stay up all night talking or whatever don't blame us tomorrow if you end up tired." That was the only thing he was going to say about it.

Moving on! "Wonderful! I'm sure there's plenty to do down on the beach besides simply swimming in the ocean. As for there being fish in the water.. there might be some smaller ones, that I'm really not too sure about." He hadn't a clue if they would get to see fish where they would be swimming. "Perhaps we can check into surfing while we're down there." He may have even set up some lessons already!

And look at his two oldest surprising him with no arguments! Renner smiled at them both and patted his son on the back, Ve getting an affectionate shoulder squeeze. "There's going to be loads of things to do here that you're both the proper age for, so no worries about any of that, yeah?" Both Raju and him would make sure they all had a terrific time and got to experience as many things as time allowed for.

Each of his kids had their own way of showing how grateful they were. Vera's cheek, Vesper's screams and well... his son appeared distracted for a few moments there but Ren knew the young man was glad to be here as well. "You're welcome. We'll meet the three of you back here in half an hour," he called after them, laughing lightly.

"Well I think it's safe to say that they all seem very happy so far, don't you?" Ren asked, directing the question to Raju as he opened the door to what would be their room and stepped inside.

With Papa and Raju having been properly expressed gratitude towards, she had been racing through the unknown layout of the cottage - the sound of Vesper and Vasco behind her. Picking one of the doors, she flung it up and stepped inside, spotting a couple of beds and figuring this was the room for the girls. Which meant it was also probably the larger one, since two of them would be being housed in here. Dropping her bag onto one of the beds, she turned to smile at the door to see if either or both of her siblings had arrived as well. She had noticed Vasco's distraction, but only so because it meant he and those obnoxiously longer legs had not gotten there first.

Going back to the earlier question he'd asked too, about their usual plans, she remembered to call out a response for that. "Usual plans works for me! I think we should use the two beds for part of the fort to elevate the top, but we should roll out a bunch of sleeping bags and blankets and all the pillows we can find onto the ground to make a nest." They could all sleep like Birdbrain tonight. Climbing up onto the bed to sit cross legged next to her bag, she pulled it open and onto her lap to rummage through for the beach items she'd need for later. "What do you guys want to do first when we get down to the water?"

Vesper might be the youngest Thanatos kiddo but that didn't mean she couldn't keep up with them. The almost thirteen year old had raced after her older sister so quickly that if the bedroom door hadn't been opened by Vera (thanks to the older girl getting there first!), this girl surely would've collided straight into it. With the door being opened though, this allowed the overly hyped up birdie to take a flying leap in direction of the other empty bed as she came charging into the room.

Laughing as she laid there in a starfish position in the middle of the bed, her bag thrown down beside her, Vesper turned her head to look at her sister. "If we need more blankets and pillows, I can ask papa or Raju to duplicate a few for us." She wanted all the blankets and pillows! "Swimming? No, sandcastles! Collecting seashells!" Could they tell how indecisive she was? There was just so much that she wanted to do!


With both of his sisters running off ahead of him, all that left Vasco to do was follow them. It would give them the chance to find their room first and that would make it easier to find his own. Simple logic right there. No fuss needed. His method of following was also much more toned down once he caught sight of which doorway they went into. This being not that large of a cabin made it pretty easy for him.

”That's fine with me. Vesp, why don't you gather up as many pillows as you can manage then while Ve and I get started on the framework for the fort.” This would be simple work for the two of them to do together being they'd done this more times than he cared to count and Vesper could then go bug the men in charge to duplicate some pillows for her. Teamwork at its finest already in play. Most of this was said as he was walking down the hall and came to stand in the doorway, his gaze sweeping about the room. ”Whatever you two want to do first is fine with me.” They would both know that this was easily code for, he wasn't going to argue with them about what to do first because chances were high that he would lose anyhow.


My oh my! If this was just the first ten minutes of their vacation, he wasn't sure that he was ready for the craziness that was bound to come forth from these kids throughout the rest of their stay here. His bunch could be a handful on a good day back home but now they were all hyped up on holiday fun. Him and Raju were surely going to be in over their heads at some point. ”Ooooh, not only me. You too. They're going to be testing you know for sure to see what you'll let them get away with.” Which they had already tried with some of their earlier questions.

”I don't believe she's gone fishing in many years, if I'm thinking correctly. She was pretty small, she may not even remember. I think she'd enjoy it though.” His youngest was very outgoing like that, and was sure to have all the questions about fishing. While Raju magically put their things away, Ren took a moment to walk around the room and really take everything in.

Vera watched as Vesper came, quite literally, flying into the room and on the other bed. Giving a laugh at her younger sister and her now starfished position, she stood to instead move and flop herself down next to the youngest. “This room is really nice.” Not that she’d looked at the other one yet. “I think this will be one of the best trips we’ve had yet.” Which was maybe surprising she thought as much, but she’d been a lot less nervous about any type of ‘replacing’ Raju might be doing for them. Instead, it was really nice having him around. He could talk sports a lot better than Papa could, obviously. “There’s no such thing as too many, maybe we should ask them anyways.” As Vasco entered too finally, she turned her head to grin over towards him as well before pulling herself up to work on framework as directed. “We should probably do this quick so Vesper has time to do everything at the beach today.” Another smile towards her sister, before she grabbed her bag and quickly through her clothes into some drawers - leaving out her swimsuit and a cover up to change into later.

“I’m up for seashells first. And then maybe I can find a group playing volleyball too!” A big fan of competitive sports, she was. And while she wasn’t amazing at the beach ball game, she’d have a grand old time playing and then maybe she’d meet some new people to hang out with. “Vas, what should we do first for framework?”

To miss the excited chatter of the three teens (well one was almost a teen), would be like missing an entire Quidditch match while sitting right there in the stands. It wasn't so much that they were loud, but it was clear that they were in the other room. Ren was also able to pick up bits and pieces of the conversation they were having about how to go about building their fort and something about more pillows.

However his attention was more so on the man currently standing in this room with him. "So you're going to treat the children like a Quidditch team? I can't wait to see it," Ren laughed. Now that was something he wanted to see. Even if Raju was joking around, it would still be entertaining to watch.

The boyfriends antics were enough to get him laughing again. "Is that how we're going to make sure we don't forget things during this trip? Because if it works you might have to teach me that one." Ren grinned, glad they could always joke around and keep things very light and fun. "We did, didn't we? This place is gorgeous." He readily agreed, wrapping his own arm around his partners waist.


The smile that came across Vesper's face when Vera laid beside her was even brighter than before. "I like it in here. This bed is comfy." If they weren't all camping out on the floor in the fort they were building she would claim this bed for herself. "I'll ask them for some help when I gather up all the extra pillows and blankets. Which I can do in a minute!"

Following the guidance of her big sister, Vesper hopped up off the bed and grabbed her bag, moving over to the dresser so she could put her clothes away. Well everything but her swimsuit and something to wear over it. "Okay, now I'll be back!" Once she had finished, she dashed off out of the room to the other bedroom and living room area in search of all pillows and blankets. She was on a mission!

It was a good thing he had moved away from the doorway because these girls weren't messing around. One second they were calming chatting about what they were intending to do at the beach and how to go about the framework for the fort, and the next the girls were tossing clothing into drawers and Vesper was bolting out of the room. If this was what he was going to have to deal with for the entire vacation, he was going to need some headache potions!

"Seashells and volleyball. Sounds like a plan." Neither were high up on his list of favorite things but if his sisters wanted to then so would he. They would be doing stuff he liked too. "But first.. this fort isn't going to build itself." Unfortunately. No magic just yet."Same as usual.. we make sure it doesn't fall." Yup, he was messing her but no, seriously that was an important rule. "We go about it the same way we always do. You make sure everything down low is secure and I'll do the same with everything up high."

Once they had all set to work as the designated tasks were outlined (not that they really needed to be - the three were pros at this by this point in time), Vera gave her siblings a little bit of a reprieve from her chatter as she set to work on all of the lower portions of the fort. It would be nice if she could use magic to make things adhesive to bed poles and whatnot, but for the time being this would work. Besides, if it all came down on top of them it's not like it would have been the first time (or probably the last) and usually it resulted in a good old laugh. She worked quickly, as she was certain her siblings did as well, since she could just feel the anticipation of all three for wanting to get out onto the beach as quickly as possible.

She had juuuust reached a spot where she would be comfortable stopping when Raju's words reached her ears. Standing up and dusting off her hands, for show of a finish more than any actual grime, she glanced over at the others. "I'm good. You guys good?" But didn't even wait for an answer before calling back out, "We'll be right there!" The oldest girl grabbed her swimsuit before giving a wave to the others and darting for the bathroom to do the quickest change and make sure her bag was packed, before bounding down the stairs to the two waiting men.

"Ready!"

True to her word, the youngest Thanatos child returned to the bedroom in only a matter of a few short minutes. Her arms laden down with the pillows and blankets that she had been able to find from the other rooms that weren't going to be used. "Will these be enough?!" She had collected the ones from the room Vasco would be sleeping in and the hall closet and the two beds that would be Vera's and hers. That should be enough?

Dumping her gatherings, Vesper got right to work in helping with the fort. Mostly with the bottom since she was still the smallest of the bunch and that was easiest for her. With the three of them working together it didn't take any time at all before they were finishing up, just in time too. "Be right there!" she called out to Raju and her papa, already in the process of changing super quickly.

All she had to do now was grab her beach bag and follow her big siblings down the hall.

Leave it to their little sister to bring back nearly every pillow and blanket in the entire cabin. Vasco laughed lightly when the younger girl came back into the room with a pile so tall she could hardly see around it. "Don't be getting yourself hurt now with all that, we're building a fort not a mansion," he teased. He didn't mind the extra comfort that blankets and things would give them though during the night.

While his sisters had taken to working on the bottom of their fort, Vas made sure the top of it wasn't going to cave in on them all... hopefully. This has happened a few times before over the years. No one ever got hurt from it unless his pride counted at all.

Standing back to take a good look at their work, he grinned at the girls. "It looks good." They always made a great team the three of them. Hearing Raju asking if they were ready to yet, he nodded to his sisters and headed to 'his' room to change. Some moments later he was in the hall with a bag slung over his shoulder. "Ready."

"Ooooh, lookit you challenging the children already," Renner teased, with yet even more laughter. There was no reason to fear any of his kids, they were all sweet and now that things were understand between them all there shouldn't be anymore issues. "Well, that right there is bribery at its finest if I've ever heard it before!" Vesper would love getting to spend more time with Cheddar, she loved him as much as she loved her snake Sherbet.

Was this something they were going to have to playfully argue about? Who was going to make who melt? Because Ren could certainly do so. "I wouldn't mind coming back here again and traveling to other places as well." None of them knew it yet just how much Italy was going to become a big part of their lives very soon.

With Raju's hand in his, he walked alongside him down the hall chuckling quickly as he heard the kids calling out to them one by one. "Looks like we have perfect timing. Who's ready to hit the beach and have some fun?" He gave the boyfriends hand a light squeeze, a grin on his face as all three of the kids joined them fairly quickly.

"Let's go!" Don't mind him as he ushered them all towards the front door. Maybe he was a little excited to get this family trip really started too.

It wasn't long after Vera had slid into the hall that the siblings soon joined, quickly followed by Papa and Raju. She smiled at all of them as they gathered in the hall, giving a small laugh at Papa's excitement to get them out of the house as he rushed them, with Raju soon following suit but also calling out well meant cautions for water safety. They were all plenty old enough to know, but considering he was saying it out of concern for their safeties she bottled up the sassy response she might have given Papa and simply shot a thumbs up as she stretched out in the sunshine.

"Ugh, I genuinely can't decide if I should interrupt a volleyball game first or if I should sunbathe." Sunbathing was more of a solo sport whereas volleyball it could be fun to interact with some of the locals. She also heard Italians were great at flirting - which maybe she could pick up some ideas for the person she wanted to use that on at home. It didn't hurt to study, right?

Looping an arm through Scooter's, Ve maybe was the one rushing them a bit now as she took a little bit larger steps to head towards the beach. The ocean was sooooo close they could see it, and she couldn't wait to pick an activity and get comfortable down on the sand. "What do you all want to do first?" She asked the group, as a whole.

It was a good thing that Raju was already on his game when it came to the kids. Ren was sure there would be many challenges ahead, as if they hadn't been tested a few times already. This was how he knew this were going to be okay, no matter what happened they worked it out somehow. He would leave it to Raju then to come up with a list of places for them to visit together. Revisit Italy? Absolutely. He hadn't seen much of anything yet but so far be was enjoying everything.

"Out, out, out," he laughed, lightly shooing them all along and then allowing himself to be pulled outside alongside Raju. "I'm sure you all know you're limits but this is an ocean so please don't make an old man panic today." Yes, he was talking about himself.

Vesper was all smiles as she stood beside her big sister, flashing her papa and Raju both a double thumbs up. "We'll be safe, don't worry." Chances were high that if she was in the water deeper than easily high, one or both of the siblings would be with her.

"Why not decide when we get there then and see what looks best?" That made the most sense to her young self. For all the knew there might not be any games of volleyball happening when they got there. Then again there could be several games happening. She had no idea. The younger girl giggled as she hurried alongside Ve towards the beach. "Ummm... I'm not sure. Will there be fish in the water?" Completely random but she was curious!

Vas looked between his sisters, his gaze then shifting to the older men as he held back a grin. "You got it. No venturing out to far into deep water," Nod, nod. No playfully cheeky grin here. He was the good one and it was up to him to ensure the girls were safe at all times. A job he took incredibly seriously.

Following behind Ve and Vesper down towards the beach. Did he join in on the conversation? Nope. He would let them figure it out and join in on whatever they decided for a little bit until he had enough and moved on to something else.

Those challenges Ren spoke of, Raju had the suspicion that they would soon be upon them. Yet he wasn’t worried; all hiccups were bound to be smoothed over and worked out. It was with this positive mindset that he stepped into the sun, hoping that he wouldn’t be recognised {at least not that easily and immediately}. Ren’s comment about making an old man worry had Raju cracking up. It was hilarious even if technically his partner wasn’t the oldest of the group.

“Mhm. There’s much to do, isn’t there?” Vera’s conundrum was felt by him. “Personally, the sun’s calling my name so I just might start with that. Maybe later on we can have a volleyball game if you three haven’t tired yourself out?” Raju was just happy that the kids wanted to include him in their activities. “Please see to it that Vera doesn’t get into trouble,’’ he continued with a wink, this time addressing Vesper and Vasco. “Have fun!” The adults could chill by themselves for a bit.



From afar, the small, thin boy watched the family silently. There was some envy in him as he watched them interact, as there always was whenever a family came into his radar. It must be nice to have people who cared a lot about you. It wasn’t as though he wasn’t cared for; it was just that when you were brought up in an orphanage, you didn’t get the love and attention that should be given to a child. Viano continued to watch discreetly with those hazel eyes as he floated the small toy boat in the waves from a shallow point on the beach.

Challenges? THEM? Papa and Raju hadn't figured out yet what angels the three of them were? You know, discrediting the fact that she had been one of those challenges already but that was bEsIdE tHe PoInT. At Papa's request to not let an old man panic, Vera couldn't resist the playful grin she sent towards the two patriarchs as she gave a small shrug. "We won't. I make no promises for a middle aged man though." If even that. As wizards, she was certain Papa and Raju both had more years left than they'd already lived. 'Old' was not the correct term.

Though as irresponsible as she could be, Vesper was a good deterrent for anything that Vera wasn't 100% sold on. She took being a big sister very seriously and she wouldn't do anything that would put the youngest of them in danger. Her and Vasco? Sure. But not Scootalou. Besides, in the very unlikely event she forgot herself with the youngest with them, Vasco was always around to keep her in check too. The three of them would be fine. As for Vesper's question? "I'm sure there are fish! We might not be able to see them though since I don't think they come close to the sand. Though we might be able to find some tidepools?" .... if she could figure out what was high tide and what wasn't.

At the question from Raju, Ve turned her attention towards the two men and grinned, giving a nod. "I'm sure we'll all still have energy for a family volleyball game." Even if they were exhausted, that was too good of an opportunity to pass up, wasn't it? At the request to make sure she stayed out of trouble to the others, she gave a 'HEY' but the smile on her face clearly showed she understood why the request would have been made. "I'll be on my best behavior." She assured them all, before looping arms again with Scoot and heading off more down the beach with the others.

Now that they were left to her own devices, she glanced around. No game that she could see currently going, but she DID have a ball with her tucked into her bag and there were plenty of open nets. But also she'd brought sand supplies in case Scoot wanted to do sandcastle building with all of them and a some towels so they could lay. "I vote we save sunbathing until after we've done something to get energy out." The sun had a way of making her sleepy. Pulling out a tube of suncreen, she held it out to the other two. "So... should we hunt for tide pools to see fish? Sandcastle? Or I bet we could find a fourth and play a smaller game of volleyball?" Glancing around she could see one lone figure and nodded towards him. "It seems there's a few people that are on their own."

Yes, them. Mind them all, he knew perfectly well which three children he was speaking of. Hence why he had referred to himself as 'old'. Despite being slightly younger than his partner, these wonderful kids of his may have aged him quite a bit over the years, thank you very much! "Remember that these middle aged men are the ones that brought you here," Ren smiled sweetly at his oldest daughter. All jokes aside though, he knew they would all be alright as long as they stuck together.

"Alright, you three. We'll be over here if you need anything. Stay together." He would be remaining here for a bit to relax and enjoy the sunshine. When the kids returned from their bit of exploring they could all play a game of volleyball or take a swim in the ocean together.

Any chat about anyone being old, well, it all got giggles from her. She was the youngest in the group so she clearly had the most energy. "Tide pools! We can go fishy hunting while we look for others to play volleyball with... we can build sandcastles later." Vesper bounced on her toes as she looked up and down the beach, her gaze falling upon the smaller boy. He wasn't all alone, was he? Wasn't he too little for that? Maybe they could ask him to look for fish with them! She was going to keep him in her field of vision just in case he was all by himself and needed some company.

Raju thinking that she was going to tire herself out before they got to play a family game of volleyball had her giggling up a storm. "Not going to happen! I have ALLLLLLLL the energy! I'll be ready to play later, don't worry!" Vesp, beamed brightly at Raju and her papa. As for keeping her big sis out of trouble well.... "I'll do my very best!" They had her word!

Were they really sending him off with both of his sisters? Didn't he do this enough as it was? Everyone knew how much of a handful they were. Or well, Vera was. Surely they were setting him up for certain doom. Vasco looked between the two already overly excited girls, running a hand through his hair. "I might have to magically restrain them at some point... but we'll be alright, I'll make sure they get here in one piece." The mischievous twinkle in his eye said it all if his teasing tone of voice didn't. There was no need to worry, he knew he couldn't go and use magic on his sisters for several reasons. The most important one being he would have his papa to answer to if he did. "Ready girls?" They could lead the way, which he knew they would anyhow.

Raju spent about a second holding back his laughter before he could no longer do so. The talk of old men was far too hilarious to him; he so did like Vera’s sass. Why did he have no doubts whatsoever that the trio would still have enough residual energy to get into more activities later? Because he had seen just how energetic they could be. So when Vesper backed up Vera’s words, Raju simply said, “I look forward to it! We’ll see soon enough how these old fellas fare against you young folk.” Even if they all wanted to go three against two, Raju was all for it. He was a man who thrived in competition, after all. Vasco received a wink. “We trust those restraints won’t be too painful.” Joking! Raju trusted that Vasco would take care of the girls.

With the kiddos heading off, Raju squished Renner’s hand before collecting from near the cottage’s door, the towels, beach chairs, umbrellas and sunscreen. Yes, this was going to be a full out ‘Muggle’ holiday for this wizarding family! “Let’s get things set up, shall we, Ren?”

Viano averted his gaze from the family as the members dispersed, the three kids heading off to do whatever tickled their fancy while the men remained not far from their cottage. Part of him wished the three would move towards him and ask him to join in whatever frivolities they were about to embark in. The other half of him wish that they did not because surely when the family went back to wherever it was that they really lived, he would miss their presence? Vi was not in the habit of becoming attached to anyone.

Oi, these kids thought they were all hilarious, didn't they?! Ren laughed along with Raju, though there was a slight shake of his head as well at all the silliness. Something was already telling him this was bound to be a very long vacation. Nothing short of fabulous.. but LONG. Raj and himself were going to be kept on their toes for sure, just like always. "Who are you calling old?" Ren eyed Raj playfully, grinning at him. They were as young as they felt, yeah?

Watching the kids disappear along the beach, his gaze returned to the man at his side. "We'll have everything set up in no time at all." He returned the squish to Raju's hand as they headed back towards the cottage door to collect everything they needed to move further down onto the beach. This was going to be a holiday to remember!

As for that little guy a little bit away from them, Ren had spotted him playing on his own and surely hoped that someone was keeping an eye on the young boy. A small child such as him shouldn't be here alone like that.

The second Vesper headed off with her older siblings, the younger girl was a little bit.. ALLLLLLLL over the place. She quickly found herself skipping across the sand in a rather large zig-zag pattern, the brightest of smiles on her face as she called out loudly, "Hurry up you two!" Why were they being the slow ones now?

Her gaze that had spotted the smaller boy earlier, she still knew exactly where he was... Annnnd he was STILL all by himself too. Well, Vesper just wasn't going to have it. Not while she was here on this beach! An immediate beeline.. or umm, more like a hop, bounce and several happy skips towards the boy was made as she drew closer. "Hi there!" She raised her hand to give him a friendly little wave.

Yes, it was to be a thoroughly enjoyable and long vacation; the couple surely agreed on that. It was why they needed their strength, to deal with it all. That, and Raju just really, really wanted to soak up some rays. One might think that he often did that with being on a Quidditch pitch so often but for him, sunshine was not something he could get enough of. With the old man at his side, Raju collected the towels, beach chairs, umbrellas and of course, snacks. Raju knew those kiddos will work up a ginormous appetite by the time they were done. Luckily, the kitchen was also well stocked as he and Ren had seen to it a few days earlier.

Raju kicked off his footwear before heading back out onto the beach. “You should lose the footwear, Ren! The sand is warm and comforting.” This was why the Quidditch coach enjoyed trekking out further to find a good spot to help set up. “Is here okay? The waves shouldn’t be able to catch us. And we have a good view of the kids.” Raju just wanted to make sure the boyfriend was in agreement.



There should be the matrons of the orphanage somewhere about. In any case, Vi was old enough to take care of himself; he didn’t rely on others to do what he could do for himself. He now kept his eyes down, sailing the both with his hands. There were times when he could sail the boat just like that, without the use of his hands. The first time a few weeks back, he had panicked when a particularly strong wave had pried it from his grasp. He had panicked as he watched the boat get carried towards the vast sea. Vi had thought that would be the last he saw it but to his amazement, it came sailing back towards him. He still hadn’t been able to figure out what happened but he wasn’t complaining.

Viano lifted his gaze at one of the girl’s calling to her siblings. It was the more cheerful and happy of the trio. How was she bursting with so much energy? It had to be because she came from a seemingly nice family. That would be enough to make anyone so delighted. The envy within Vi rose once more. Imagine his surprise when she called out in his direction! To be sure she was talking to him, Vi glanced around to check there was no one else in the close proximing. There wasn’t. “Hi,’’ he replied cautiously, his Italian accent rather thick.

They would need their strength and knowledge and everything else to keep ahead of the kids during this vacation. Not that he was worried. The two of them wouldn't have any trouble, just as they wouldn't have any trouble soaking up the sun. As the two of them gathered everything together he couldn't help but wonder how they had brought along so much but.. as his gaze wandered to the kids for a brief moment he knew that was why.

"It's not too warm?" Ren called back, even as he already kicked off his own before heading onto the sand. How perfect it felt beneath his feet! Following Raju to a nice clear spot where they could see everything, the dark haired man smiled. "I think this is good. Not too close to the water but close enough to give us a little breeze and we can see all the way down the beach in both directions." Yeah, this was a nice spot. And just to prove so, he began. to set up the chairs they had brought down.


Those lovely older siblings of hers, they were now goofing off together and laughing being their silly selves like always. Which she very easily could've joined in on like she did time and time again because Vesper was never left out when it came to those two, however the boy with the incredibly strong accent had finally realized she had been speaking to him, so her attention was all on him for now. "Do you wanna join us? Or um.. well me now?" Since Vera and Vasco were now kicking water at each other. "I was going to look for some seashells." Maybe he could help he? Her smile never faded as she walked over to where he was. This was my much nicer than shouting.

Oh, yes.

Even Raju had come to the same conclusion about how many belongings the group was bringing with them while he had been helping gather said belongings back home. Even as a Quidditch player he hadn’t travelled with half as much. Then again, Ren was right… those kiddos. Not that Raju was ever complaining about them.

“It’s not,’’ the older man confirmed. Even though he was used to extreme weather, he had taken how Ren might find the sand before encouraging him to get bare feet. Raju was indeed pleased to see that Ren had followed his lead. “We’ll probably have sand stuck beneath our toenails later but nothing at all major.” With the boyfriend in agreement, Raju set up umbrellas behind the chairs, providing a shady spot to rest - both for them and when the kiddos became tired.



Vi’s gaze flickered towards the older two who were already embarking on some adventure. It then returned to the girl before him. His expression would not reveal anything but inwardly? Inwardly he was surprised. It was rare that anyone asked him to join them, any of the tourists, that is. But Viano was wiser than that, he knew better than to go off with strangers so he hadn’t accepted their offer. This girl though… there was something warm about her and he couldn’t help but trust her immediately. “I know where the best seashells are,’’ he remarked, grabbing his boat and standing. He was obviously shorter than her but only about a head or so. Vi turned to glance in the direction of the adult women who were fussing over some kids. “I can’t go out of their sight, just to let you know.” He gestured towards the group before motioning her to follow.

Somehow, someway, Ren believed that as the children got older they brought MORE stuff along with them on trips than they had when they were smaller. Whether it was true or not, the man couldn't remember for sure but it honestly felt that way today as him and the boyfriend handled it all without any issues.

Warm sand beneath his feet was rather nice, comforting even. Raju's comment about the sand getting stuck underneath their toenails had him laughing even though he knew it was likely to be true. "I wouldn't be surprised by this honestly.. but isn't that what long relaxing baths and showers are for?" Every trip to the water always ended in a wash up when they all returned home that night. With the chairs and umbrellas set up, Ren set a folded towel on each one. "Are you planning on laying down or relaxing in a chair with a cold water?" He was probably going to sit and relax for a bit himself.


Had Vesp been hoping for at least the tiniest hint of a smile? Perhaps. However she had to keep in mind that she didn't even really know this younger boy. Here she was, a strange older tourist girl coming to his area and randomly asking him to hang around with her. Poor boy must be feeling so awkward! Sorry adorable little dude with the greatest accent ever!

Her sweet smile widened when he said he knew where the best seashells were. That meant he was gonna join her! "Fantastic!" She waited for him to get to his feet, her gaze swinging towards the women and children when he gestured that way. Was that his family? He didn't say they weren't but.. that didn't mean they weren't. "Of course. I can't go out of my papa and Raju's sight either." Vesper nodded her head in understanding all the while gesturing as well towards the two men not to far down the beach. "I'm Vesper by the way." She couldn't forget to introduce herself!

Raju, unfortunately, would not be able to agree or disagree with Renner on that. He hadn’t any kids {fingers crossed that this would change eventually} but seeing as the boyfriend had the experience with three kiddos, Raju just might keep Ren’s observation in mind. “Too true, Ren! A good soak and scrubbing are going to get them out.” Chuckling at that thought of relaxing baths, he helped finish setting up. “Sit, I think.” This was exactly what he did. “We managed to pull off this vacation so far,’’ Raju remarked with some degree of relief, looking off into the distance of the three young Thanatos. It was then he noticed that Vesper was chatting with a younger boy. He was not surprised. “It seems like Vesp has made a friend.”


Viano rarely smiled. It was his way of protecting himself against forming any special bond with anyone, especially anyone who was likely to be around for a short time. And no, he did not feel awkward with this girl. He did wonder though, how was it she felt so comfortable to smile so easily with him. Surely she didn’t find his seriousness off-putting? At the mention of her papa and the other man, Viano’s eyes settled on the men busy with chairs and umbrellas. “The other one’s not your dad too? He looks familiar.” At the moment, he just could not place where he had seen him.

“Hi, Vesper,’’ the little boy said over his shoulder. “I’m Viano. Your name sounds a lot like the scooter Italians use.” Did she know this about vespas? Vi mulled over his question as he led her at a short distance away where rocks of various sizes lay. “Sometimes seashells get lodged under these rocks so there’s usually new ones to be found.” He set the boat on a bigger rock for safekeeping then got to his knees. “Just be on the lookout for tiny crabs. They’re called Sand Crabs and love burying themselves in the sand or among the rocks.” Saying that, Vi carefully began shifting rocks around.

Raju could just take his word on that! When the kiddo had been small all he had to do was pack for them and make sure they had their favorite toy(s) with them. Now, it's like they need to bring everything they own! "I always find a nice soak to be very relaxing after a long day on the beach." Not to mention how needed it normally was. "Sitting sounds devine, don't mind if I do." Ren settled himself down in the chair beside Raju's and made himself comfortable. This meant a few adjustments were made to the chair so he could prop his legs up a smidge and lean back just a touch. Only then did his gaze move across the sand and down the beach towards where his youngest was chatting with a smaller boy. "Of course she did," he chuckled, not at all surprised by this either. Leave it to Vesper to make a friend five minutes into their vacation.


Well, she didn't know this but maybe if they were able to spend some time together while she was here, she would learn more about him and understand. Not at all! Vesper actually found his seriousness intriguing. At Viano's question she gently shook her head. "That's Raju Misra, he's my papa's boyfriend." This was said with great pride and a bright smile. If the boy recognized the face and now the name.. that could mean.. it would be so cool if he was magical! It was hard to hide that part of herself sometimes, though she was very very used to it when they were out and about in muggle places.

Okay, but like.. Vesper couldn't help it. She honestly didn't mean to. Young Viano had her laughing the moment those words fell from his lips. Through all her giggles, a wide smile still plastered on her face, "Uh-huh, I know. My big sister actually calls me Scoot because of it." She was called Scoot more than her actual name at times and she didn't mind it one bit! Nod nod. "Okay! Are the little crabs friendly?" She wasn't looking to get herself punched by any today. However, if they were tiny it probably wouldn't hurt much, if at all. Vesper slowly and carefully began to turn over rocks nearest to her.

“I agree. I’ll definitely be taking one after we’re done here.” And there surely would be more to come during the time that the entire family was in Italy. Raju had the feeling that aside from exploring the nearby areas, the kiddos would want to spend much time at the beach. And really, who could blame them? “I don’t mind,’’ the older man replied. He would never complain about having alone time with the boyfriend. After all the hectic moments to ensure the entire family got here, Raju was ready to catch some moments of peace before chaos brewed again {he meant this in the nicest of ways}. ”Of course she did,’’ Raju echoed, chuckling. “I hope she doesn’t get too attached to him since we won’t be here for too long.”


Perhaps they would spend more time together, perhaps not. Vi wasn’t about to get his hopes up. Vesper probably had packed days ahead of her that did not involve hanging out with boring little him. At the mention of the name, Viano’s eyes lit up. “Yes! That’s him!” His gaze slid back over to the couple now relaxing on chairs. “He’s a…” Words failed Vi since Misra happened to be one of his favourite Quidditch players. Well, ex Quidditch players. “A legend. I want to be like him someday.” This little guy was already practising his Quidditch moves! So yes, this was confirmation he was a wizard, and it meant that Vesper possibly was too. Unless she and her family were Muggles…

If asked for words to describe Vesper, Viano’s would be ‘rainbows’ and ‘sunshine’. How could one find so much to laugh and giggle about if they weren’t the definition of happiness? The boy was in awe. Despite himself, he felt his lips twitching upwards and reluctantly allowed himself a small smile. “Have you ever been on a vespa?”

Viano continued moving the rocks, taking his time because he was being cautious of the crabs. “They’re not but if they suddenly appear, they can scare the life out of you.” He fell silent for a few seconds. “Look!” His search had paid off as he now located some seashells - about a dozen of them - of all shapes and colours. He plopped himself on his butt on the sand, looking mighty pleased with himself. “All yours.”

"If that's the plan, we may want to call dips on it before we even head home, otherwise we may very well end up with ice cold bath water," Renner laughed. If the man was joking or not could all depend on the kids. Though a cold bath might revive any tired sore achy muscles he may have by the end of each day during this vacation. They were sure to try many new things while here in Italy. "Mm, it wouldn't surprise me if she does.. however they look a bit younger so hopefully all will be fine." Plus, who was even to say that they would run into the child again after today?

Whether she had planned days ahead of her or not, of today went well and they two of them got along (which so far they were doing great!), then she would love to hangout with him again. The way Viano's eyes lit up, how he spoke about Raju.. just... Aaaawwww! Vesper smiled and nodded her head, giggling softly. "Uh-huh, he is." As in, yes, to both of those things. A legend and a wizard. She knew what he meant. Did that mean?! She tilted her head ever so slightly, studying Viano a little for a brief second, before asking quietly, "Do you.. play?" She was going to ask if he 'flew' but this sounded better.

Well, he would be correct. That is what she was all about. Rainbows were BEAUTIFUL! As was the sun, especially when it was riding and setting. "Not yet.. but my siblings and I hope to while we're here. Have you?" Cause if he has.. consider her already jealous!

Nod, nod. "I'll be on the lookout for them then." She didn't want to accidently hurt any of the crabs if she did happen to come across them. Continuing to turn over rocks seemed to pay off if Viano's sudden shout meant anything. "Woooooow!" Vesper smiled brightly as she laid eyes on all the different seashells. "I won't take them all.. just a few..." Six to be exact. And there was a good reason for her choices too, which she was being very very precise about.

Okay, don’t mind Raju as he let out a hearty laughter that was sure to have captured the attention of anyone nearby. He couldn’t help it because Renner’s words were hilarious to him. Why? “I can hardly believe that our competition is three teenagers.” But thankfully there was magic to help them with heating the cold water. Whatever challenges popped out, it would be resolved. Raju couldn’t help but feel protective towards Vesper as usual but he knew that he couldn’t just go up to her and forbid her from talking to the boy. Well, he could but that wouldn’t be nice and he doubted Ren would appreciate it. “Hopefully. Anyway, Ren. Are you hungry yet?”


She liked giggling, didn’t she? The more Viano heard the sounds, the more he actually liked them. Usually, he didn’t appreciate gigglers or even anyone who so much as seemed overly happy. “I do.” And because he had all the confirmation he needed that she had knowledge of the Wizarding world because Vesper had asked him if he played, Vi continued, “The orph- the place that I stay, it’s a place for magical kids.” There was no need for her to know he stayed at an orphanage; he couldn’t stand the pity anyone gave him when they found out about the fact.

“You definitely should. It’s not really an Italian vacation unless you’ve taken a ride on a vespa.” The boy nodded almost solemnly, which was his usual demeanour. “I have. I had to sit at the back obviously since I’m not of age to handle one on my own.” But it had been enjoyable still.

“It’s okay, you know. There’s loads of shells all around so there’s enough for everyone if you want to take them all.” Viano eyes her choices curiously. “Why did you choose those?”

His man's laughter had him grinning and he would've joined in, IF he didn't know how easily those teens could trick him into getting their way. This is what happens when he raised them on his own for so many years, they all had him wrapped around their fingers. "Three incredibly smart teenagers." Yes, magic. Ren was sure it was going to come to their aid many times over the course of their vacation. "This is the way of vacationing. You make friends that you'll have to say bye to." Unfortunately that's just how it went. They would go home at some point and her new friend would remain here. "I'm sure I can eat something," he grinned at Raju, making a reach for the cooler of food.


Giggles were a form of happiness. And this girl was happy. The sweetest of smiles that formed on her face when she heard that he played, ohhh how it told her so much! "That's fantastic, what position do you play?" Vesper was simply curious now that she knew for sure. And did she hear that small little slip up? Sorta. She kinda caught on to it but she let it go for the time being. "Would you like to meet him?" Everyone wanted to meet Raju, right?

"We plan on it.. even if I have to nag papa until he says yes," Vesper giggled. "I won't be able to ride on my own either but that's okay." Someday she would be old but until then she was okay with riding on the back of one.

Vesp shook her head. "These are good. I'm pretty sure I don't need more than this.. unless I mess up." She smiled. "Well I'm going to try to put them on necklaces or bracelets." So they all would take a little bit of Italy home with them.

“Definitely. Smart teens. They clearly inherited that from their parents.” The Thanatos’ kiddos were made up of only great genes because their parents had only great ones as well. “I know a lot about that,’’ Raju replied with a knowing nod. “It happens when you’re travelling for Quidditch. It’s always sad but you hope you get to see them again.” Yes, this man had a lot of experience in that area. “I’ll take one of those berry smoothies, please.” The coach certainly aimed to continue his fitness regime.


Viano knew that Vesper was a happy soul; he could feel it vibrating off of her. “Chaser but I make a decent Beater I’ve been told.” But playing in the position of Chaser was his favourite, a position his hero had also played! The question momentarily left him speechless. Vi had wanted to meet the man for a very long time but… “Would it be a good time? I mean, I know it’s not nice to disturb anyone on their vacation.”

Vi nodded. “Being a passenger is better since you’ll get to take in the Italian scenery.” Italy really was beautiful and there was always something new to see. “Well, if you’re sure that’s all you need.” There wasn’t much he could do to make her take more, could he. “If you need more, you know where to find them.” And Vesper would not even need his help to do so. “You’re going to have some really pretty jewellery. Are they something you make often?”

"Why thank you." Renner nodded proudly. Those kids were his pride and joys. "Sad, but true. It's the way things are when you get into a profession like that or simply enjoying traveling all over." Friendships were wonderful but it could certainly be a sad time leaving new friends time and time again. However, this is what writing letters was for of Vesper really wanted to remain in touch with those she met while they were vacationing. "Ah, a berry smoothie for you and one for me," Ren chuckled lightly, taking two bottles from the cooler and passing one to Raju. These did look really refreshing!

She liked being able to radiat happiness and positivity. Vesper let her gaze roam over the younger boy from head to toe and back again, a smile still on her face. "I can see you as a Chaser." In her opinion he had the perfect build to be one. The silence at her question almost made her giggle. Had she stunned the boy into silence?! But at hearing his returned question she nodded slowly in understanding. "I don't think he'd mind at all. He's one of the nicest people I know." Going over and saying 'hello' shouldn't be a problem.

"That's true and I really want to get to see everything!" It was all about the experience anyhow. Vesp nodded. "Now I do." Thanks to him. With his help she had found some really lovely shells. "I really hope so. Nope! This will be my very first time.. so I hope I don't mess them up." Fingers crossed that she wouldn't end up breaking the sea shells.

Raju smiled as his gaze rested on Renner. He liked that his boyfriend looked every bit the proud papa bear he should always be. He could already tell that those three kiddos would do great things and make Ren even prouder. And yes, that sort of hazard, the hazard of losing contact with persons, when one was a nomad could be difficult. Even though Raju was no coach for the Catapults, the job still required him to travel so he was still at risk for that sort of thing. The only difference now was that the man knew how to handle the situations better than he had in his younger days. “Thanks, love,’’ he said with another smile. “How early do you think the kids would want to get started with their exploration tomorrow?”


Vi felt somewhat self conscious as Vesper’s gaze took him in. He even squirmed slightly before reaching for the boat he had been sailing earlier. But her words had him smiling just a tad. “Yeah, I’ve been told that too. It’s fate, I guess.” If one believed in that sort of thing; the ladies who ran the orphanage often told him that the universe had conspired to make him be one of the next greatest Chasers. “Okay.” Vi finally found his words again. “Whenever you think the time is right.” He might be calm on the exterior but on the inside? Man, the little guy was thrilled!

“Good, then you should do all that you can to see it all.” Vi was one hundred percent sure that Vesper would regret not seeing everything, should that happen, once she went back home and replayed the vacation in her mind. “Well, good luck with the jewellery. And have fun while you’re here.” He wasn’t going to let her be stuck with him when she had jewellery to make and places to explore. If he couldn’t meet Raju now, then he’d just head back to the other kids and the matrons.

Has always been proud of his kids but as they got older, his pride swelled ten fold! Every chance he got to boost about the three of them, Ren took it. The kids were going to make them even prouder because he wanted Raju there at his side to see it all. That much he was sure. This was how life was, yes? Meeting people that they may never see again. And keeping connections with others. It was all about who important those people were, some were meant to be life long friends. "You're welcome." Ren smiled, sipping his drink. "Well, Vasco may want to sleep in for a bit.. as for the girls, Vesper could be up long before us all." Only tomorrow morning would know for sure.


Oops. She hadn't meant to make him uncomfortable. "It very well could be." Vesper absolutely believed in fate. Things always had a way of turning out how they were meant to. There was a brief pause as the young teen considered something. "How about right now?" Beaming smile. Raju and her papa wouldn't mind meeting Viano, would they? She didn't think so.

"That's going to be the goal while I'm here." She wanted to experience everything that she could. If she was given the chance to do it, she was going to. "Thanks, do you come here a lot? Maybe I'll see you again?" Maybe she would be able to show him how the jewelry turned out before she headed back home.

Raju downed a bit of his smoothie and followed it up immediately with a hearty chuckle. “With all that energy she possesses? Yes, I think Vesper would be the first one up.” Then again, he wouldn’t mind sleeping in a tad. Just a tad because there was much exploring to do in such an exotic place.


Viano knew she didn’t. He got the feeling she was someone who had only genuine intentions. It was purely on him that he felt uncomfortable; it was always that way for him under scrutiny. “N-Now?” He actually stammered in his excitement as he shot a quick look in the men’s direction. They both looked so content just hanging out there but if Vesper was sure that Raju wouldn’t mind… Yes, now that he thought of it. Raju has always been gracious and friendly whenever he was featured in the press so Viano really had no reason to believe that Raju would be cross at being interrupted by a star-struck fan. “Okay. Yes.”

He gestured vaguely behind him. “I live nearby so you’ll run into me here often enough.” This was very true, and Vi was secretly pleased that Vesper wanted to see him again.

"Not only will she be the first one up, but she'll be up, dressed for the day and having eaten already and waking us all up bright and early to get the day started," Renner agreed, joining in on the joyful laughter. He didn't mind early morning wakeup calls by his children but it would certainly be nice to get to sleep in a little bit longer while they were all on vacation, yes. "Perhaps we can persuade her to let us all sleep in a wee bit tomorrow, that way we have all the energy needed for a day of fun and exploring." Maybe if said that way, Vesper would agree.

Being such a comfortable soul nearly all of the time, she sometimes forgot that her behaviors could be.. a bit.. much. She would get better at this in time, the more she was around him for sure. Vesper's own smile widened and she nodded quickly. "Mhmm," she hummed. "Now's as good a time as any." Why put off something until another day when they could do it right this very moment? Plus, she could see the pure excitement in Viano's eyes and she wanted to keep it there for a bit longer if she could.

Vesper's gaze tried to follow Viano's gesture but it not being an exact one left her with no real location. Not that it was really a big deal. "Oooh, good! Then chances are high that we'll definitely run into one another again while I'm here." She was quite pleased to have made a friend so quickly today.

"Come on, let's go say hi to my papa and Raju." She smiled over at Vi, carefully holding the seashells in her hands as she turned around to head back the way she had originally came from.

That got a hearty laugh out of Raju. “She really would be fully dressed and waking us,’’ he agreed. In all honesty, there was never a dull moment when it involved one or all of those three kiddos. Not that his boyfriend was boring. “Knowing Vesp, she would agree. Shall we ask her for an extra hour?’’ The question gave him an idea. “Perhaps we can explore the city at night in addition to the day? It would be quite lovely to take in the night life and all the lights.” Raju imagined himself holding Renner’s hand as they strolled through the artificially lit streets. It was a nice mental picture.


Vesper was right: now was as good a time as any to meet his idol. And that was all that had his attention right now; so much so that Vi didn’t even bother to dwell on the fact that she had let it easily slide at his vague gesture about where he lived. Good, because Vi didn’t like it when people pried into his life. He preferred to share information when he was comfortable about it.

“Let’s go,’’ the Italian replied as casually as he possibly could. He was actually feeling anything but calm, however, as he fell in step beside his future sister.

Renner nodded, chuckling at the thought of it. "There's no doubt in my mind that she would be." The children surely did keep him on his toes at all times so he wasn't surprised that Raju felt the same way about that. "That very well may a good idea. Perhaps if we ask soon she'll take into consideration that this is a vacation and sleeping in a bit is a good thing." Raju's voiced thoughts brought a smile to Ren's face. "That sounds fantastic to me. There's so much to see and do here we might as well take as full advantage of it as we can." Now he was picturing it in his head!

That wasn't anything Viano had to worry about, she wasn't one to pry. Unless she had an extremely good reason. Sure she liked to ask questions as she got to know a person but she was usually good with telling when to back off of a topic. Plus, she had only just met him! There was more time to get to know him. Or so she hoped.

"Here we go!" Vesper giggled joyfully as she led the way. "Papa! Raju! I want you to meet my new friend." Yes, she was already calling out to them before they even reached where the two grown men were sitting and chatting.

Raju nodded. “Once we explain to her that it’s okay to sleep in for a bit, she’ll understand. I doubt she’ll sleep in but I’m sure she’ll find something to occupy herself with.” He trusted Vesper; she was incredibly mature and responsible for her age. Had anyone ever told Raju’s other half that he had such a wonderful smile? Oh wait. He had told Renner that ever so often. Still, the Quidditch coach will always feel his breath catch when that smile came into play. “It’s a date then, love.” There wasn’t time to say more as at the moment, Vesper herself was making her way towards him and Ren, bringing company with her.

Grinning, Raju lifted his free hand in a wave. He thoroughly enjoyed the fact that the smallest Thanatos easily made friends. “Hey, Vesp!” To the young boy, he gave him a warm smile. “Hello. It’s really nice to meet you.”


Viano threw a glance at Vesper. She seemed to be eager to announce his presence, didn’t she? That was fine but he just wished he would stop feeling so nervous. As he approached the men, he gave them a small smile. They both seemed friendly which was incredibly helpful. “Ciao,’’ he replied {‘hello’ in Italian}, his eyes lingering longer on Raju before darting to Renner. Goodness! This little guy was starstruck more than ever! Help him, Vesper!

"She's a smart young lady. There's plenty for her to do while she waits for us all to wake up.. and if not, she can wake up her brother and sister." Renner agreed, chuckling some. Hmm, let him think. Yes! Raju told him so. His man had a great smile as well. "I'm already looking forward to it."

His gaze shifted at the same time as Raju's did to see his youngest coming towards them with her new friend. "Hello kids, everything going well?" It was always a good idea to check-in with the children.

If Vi wanted to call her eager, this girl had no problems with it. Introducing him to her family was gonna happen at some point she was sure of it, so why not right now? Vesper smiled brightly at both men even though she kept casually glancing at the younger boy beside her. Poor boy looked like he couldn't get anymore words out of her tried! "This is Viano! He helped me find all of these seashells." Which of course she moved closer to show Raju and her papa. "Viano.. this is my papa Renner annnnnnnnd as you already know... This is Raju!" She gave the men a smile and the tiniest hint of a nod, silently confirming that Vi knew all about Raju so clearly he had to know about the magical world!

That much was true! Vesper was smart and could easily be occupied with the twins. Possibly she could spend her time keeping them out of trouble. And Ren was right: there were plenty of plans to look forward to. Also something to enjoy were plans that hadn’t been made, the unexpected and the spontaneous. Like meeting this seemingly shy little guy. Raju’s gaze turned to Vesp as she introduced her friend then peeked at the shells. “That’s a very nice name,’’ he told Viano. “And some really pretty shells, Vesp. For jewelry?”

When it was mentioned that Viano knew him, and after catching Vesper’s knowing nod, Raju immediately figured that the boy was a Wizard. “Why don’t you join us?’’ he suggested, glancing at Renner but already knowing the other man wouldn’t mind. He indicated to the vacant chair next to him. “Do you play Quidditch too?”



Thank the heavens Vesper saved him. Vi hadn’t met any other celebrity other than Raju so he was quite uncertain of how to act. Or rather, he knew that he should be normal but it was very difficult when one found themself in the presence of their favourite Quidditch player. Vi cleared his throat, probably to hide the little squeak of surprise that threatened to escape. Raju wanted him to sit next to him? Vi hoped he didn’t pass out. Instead, he focused on nodding and taking the seat.

Only then did he clear his throat once more to force words out. “Si. Chaser, like you.” That was as much as he could manage to say right now.

Yes, that was hopefully the plan. That the teens would all entertain one another and keep themselves from any trouble. At least until Raju and himself were awake each morning. It wasn't much to ask, was it? Ren didn't think so. Meeting new people was always splendid, especially friends of his children. "Viano. That sounds like a good strong name, am I right?" He flashed the young boy and his daughter a warm smile. "Seashells, hm? Do Raju and I get one?" This was a joke but he would gladly wear anything his kids gave to him.

Ah, a wizard like themselves! How fabulous! Ren nodded. "Please, have a seat. How about a snack or perhaps some juice?" Being out in the sun had to make the young ones thirsty. Speaking of which, he took a nice refreshing sip of his smoothy. Mm, now that certainly hit the spot on dub a warm day

Of course she would rescue him! That's what friends were for after all. "Thanks! Uh-huh, that's the plan. I want to make something for all of us." And by 'all of us', Vesp meant for Viano as well since he had been the one to help her find these gorgeous shells. Excuse her please if she giggled at Vi's cuteness. "Go on..." she encouraged softly, gently patting her newest buddy on the shoulder.

Grabbing one of the towels her papa had brought with them, Vesper laid it out on the sand before sitting herself down upon it. "Is there anywhere around here to play safely?" Maybe they could have a fun little game with Viano before they returned home! But first... "Ooooh, do we have any chocolates?" Like papa, like daughter.

Raju couldn’t help but agree with Renner about Viano’s name being strong. He was already a big fan of it, as he was of the boy. The shy demeanour was not at all off putting. “Agreed,’’ Raju remarked cheerfully. It was really now occurring to him that Viano might be a little starstruck. The coach was used to it by now and luckily had a lot of experience on how to handle such a situation. “Yes, you should definitely join us. I recommend the juice, by the way.” He gave the boy a wink before turning to Vesper. “I think a nice charm bracelet will work well for me, Vesp.”

Ah, so Viano played Chaser too. Raju was oddly delighted by this fact. “That’s wonderful. Are you aiming to play professionally?”


Viano didn’t know {obviously} that Vesper was planning on making something for him. He would have been grateful to her; he would be when she handed him that jewellery. What he was grateful for was her encouragement. He gave her a small smile before nodding at the adults. “I’ll have the juice, please.” Hey, he sounded much better and not at all timid now! Perhaps now he would be a proper conversationalist. “Professional. I plan on getting selected as soon as I can for a team.” Which meant a lot of hard work and sacrifices but he was prepared to make them. At Vesper’s question, Vi shook his head. “Nowhere near this beach but there’s a field that a few of us use to practice.” But ‘us’, he meant the occupants and matrons of the orphanage. “Chocolates? I like chocolates,’’ he blurted before he could stop himself.

Oops?

Ren didn't need to be told that his partner AND daughter both were already fond of young Viano. It could easily be seen in their eyes and heard clearly in their voices. As for him, he found the boy to be very sweet, the way he looked to Vesper for reassurance and the spoke made this man smile even wider. As the children settled down with them, Ren reached for those juices. "Here you are, nice and chilled." He held one out to each of the kids.

"I will gladly wear whatever you come up with for me." Bracelet, necklace, he would love any of it. The mention of chocolates made him chuckle. "Now when do you know me to go nearly anywhere without some?" It was only a moment or two before he pulled a container of handmade chocolates of different varieties from the cooler. "Take you're pick, Viano. Have whatever you like... You're not allergic to anything though, are you?" He did like to put all different things into his chocolates ranging from fruits to nuts to whatever he thought would make a great combination.

That was the whole point! Viano receiving a piece of jewelry that she made especially for him was meant to be a surprise. Oh, well as he got to know her more (hopefully), he would come to see that she was a very encouraging person to all those that she knew. Her smiled warmed and spread in return to the one he gave her. "Sure! I'm sure I can make bracelets." Maybe she could even manage matching ones for Raju and her papa! So many ideas were already running through her head. Reaching for one of the juices, she opened it quickly to take a small sip.

The teens attention remained on Viano and she nodded. "Maybe you can show us sometime and we can all fly together?!' Her voice was kept low but the excitement of it was all too clear. It would be so much fun! Her eyes darted between Renner and Raju in hopes of some form of confirmation that this could happen. Speaking of her papa... CHOCOLATES! "Me too! You're in for a HUGE treat, Vi! My papa makes the BESSSST chocolates." No one mind her as she already reached out to select one of her favorites.

Oh, yes. Raju was already feeling fond of Viano, though he was quite certain that no one was more fond of the boy than Vesper was. He wouldn’t be surprised if she wanted to take him back to the UK. As for matching bracelets with his love, Raju would never say no to that! He gave Vesper a happy smile {honestly, the girl was a ray of sunshine}. “I’ll take you to meet the Catapults as a treat, how about it, Vesp?” Maybe she could add to the Catapults’ training session by being there with her remarkably bright personality.

Viano’s interest in playing professionally pleased him immensely. Already, Raju wished that he could share some tips and offer to have training sessions with him. “I like your ambition. Being selected to any team means that you would have worked very hard and your talent was noticed, so continue being focused on your goal.” It was advice he had been given as a youngster and gave his team both as Captain and presently as Coach.


{“Grazi.”} (Thank you) Vi took the juice, followed Vesper’s lead by opening and having a mouthful. It was quite delicious. He then nodded to Raju, eagerly taking in all of the advice. He nodded enthusiastically, all earlier feelings of being star struck evaporating as he became more comfortable with the trio. “I try to train everyday, especially at school.” Vi eyed all the chocolates, unaware that Vesper’s father was a chocolatier. He just assumed the man had made it a habit to walk around with all that goodness. “Not allergic to anything that I know of,’’ the boy replied. “White chocolates are my favourite.” One of the sort was selected.

Ha! Raju knew her so well! Her level of fondness for the younger boy was indeed clear and it was growing with each minute. The teens would absolutely take Viano home with them had she be given the chance. There was just something about him that she was able to connect with immediately. To say she was going to be sad when they went home and he stayed in Italy was an understatement.

Vesper's smile matched Raju's. Creating things that her family could cherish for years to come was what she was hoping for. "I would love that!" While Vera was a bit more into Quidditch than she was, there wasn't anyway she would turn down meeting the Catapults in person! Maybe she would even get a chance to fly with them?! Now that would be a real treat!

"What else do you like, Vi? Besides playing Quidditch I mean." She was curious to get to know her new friend even better. A small giggle escaped her lips and she grinned at Papa and Raju. "Those ones are Raju's favorite too. I like them all." When it came to chocolates choosing one as a favorite was too difficult to do.

No one give the girl any ideas, please and thanks! As sweet as Viano was, they really didn't know anything else about him as of yet. Not that he was against getting to know the boy as well. He just has a way of thinking about everything from all the important angles. Plus, if it were up to Vesper they would bring home every kid she grew to know and like well... Annnnd all the creatures too!

Now, Quidditch wasn't something he was great at, nor could he give any real pointers about the game but he did enjoy it. Having a fun little match with Viano, Raju and his kids could prove to be entertaining if they could manage to fit it into their vacation schedule (he didn't see it being any trouble at all).

Ren smiled and nodded. "You're very welcome." What a polite boy! He liked that. "Then you can happily enjoy whichever chocolates you like without any issues... Maybe you can even try taking a guess on some of the fillings or types of chocolates you've tried." He always liked to see if others could pinpoint what all he had used in his chocolates. Ha! The man laughed along with his daughter, grinning wide. "Another fan of white chocolates! Raj here tends to eat them constantly.. I'm always making a batch just for him." He winked at the boyfriend, a fond smile tugging at his lips.

Raju grinned, loving how happy and excited his suggestion made Vesper. Of course he would offer to take Vera and Vasco as well as he always aimed to treat the kiddos equally. “It’s a date then.” One that he was already looking forward to. “Don’t worry, love. I can take you to meet them as well.” Grinning, Raju reached over to squeeze Renner’s hand.

The Coach certainly was enjoying Viano’s determination. He already, for some reason, felt himself bonding with the little guy. “That would be Ofelia Primary School of Magic, correct?” He knew it was right here in Naples. And as Viano commented about white chocolates being his favourite, Raju couldn’t help but exchange a startled look with Renner then with Vesper. What a lovely coincidence!


Vi couldn’t help but feel a twinge of jealousy when Raju mentioned that his family would get to meet the Catapults. He wanted to meet them too! He wanted to meet all the teams! It was already a dream come through to have met Raju {the best of the best} but there were so many more Quidditch stars to see out there. He forced himself to be content with the conversation and the chocolate - which was so yummy, something Vi determined from the first bite. “This is really great,’’ he complemented, smiling at Renner. Would the family mind it terribly if he took another? “Well, there’s always schoolwork, sometimes I help with chores. Mostly I like to come out here to the beach.” It was a calming place for him. The news about white chocolates being Raju’s favourite didn’t surprise him. “I know. I remember reading it in a magazine.” That might have had a slight influence on his preferred chocolate type. Also… yes, he had read every article that he could have found on Raju. “It must be nice to have someone who makes you stuff you like.’’ There was a hint of wistfulness in his voice; but it was nice that Raju had someone like Renner. “Yes. Ofelia is correct. It’s a nice place. I have a question if you don’t mind. Don’t you get annoyed with the paparazzi?’’ he asked. “They’re always hounding every famous Quidditch player, and they hound you quite a bit still.” Vi wanted to know how Raju kept his sanity, for the future when he himself became popular.

Viano’s face lit up. “Do you really mean I can have a few more?” Don’t mind if he did! “Thank you.” After polishing off the first, he plucked up another. “I think…” He chewed, letting the mixture of tastes roll over his tongue. His eyes darting from Renner to Vesper. “I think I’m tasting some sort of berry in this one.” He eyed the bit of red filling in the center. “Cranberry?”

Vesper's smile only grew. Getting to meet Raju's team and see how they all work so well together was going to be fantastic! Oooh, that would be great too! She knew that her siblings would enjoy it as well. The only thing that could dampen this moment, was how much she could tell that Viano would love the chance to meet the Catapults even more than any of them. Ves hoped that one day he would get his wish.

"I bet you're pretty good with your school lessons, hm?" There was something about Viano that gave her the impression that he was rather smart.

Ren chuckled. "Only if you don't mind me bringing the team some chocolates." He couldn't meet the Catapults empty-handed now, could he? It was what he was best known for, other than being Raju's partner that is!

"Thank you, I make them myself." Renner was a proud man when it came to his profession. A light laugh slipped past his lips. "Do you read a lot about Quidditch?" From what he was hearing it sounded that way! As a father he easily caught the way Viano's tone changed when he mentioned having things prepared that one likes. Poor boy. He would fix this kid anything his heart desired if he could!

Oh, what a sweet boy! "Absolutely. Have as many as you like.. just don't go giving yourself a stomachache." His kids were all known for doing that from time to time. Nod nod. And he was smiling again. "Very very good. You know
your flavors." Not everyone could pick out cranberry that quickly, especially when it was completely smooth and jelly like in the center of the chocolate.

Raju was not at all surprised. “Sure, why not? I bet the team would love that.” And they would instantly like Renner; not to mention that they did deserve a nice treat for all the hard work that was put into the team. Did he forget to mention how immensely thoughtful his boyfriend was?

The Coach, however, was a tad surprised that Viano remembered white chocolates were his favourite. Truth be told, he didn’t recall giving that fact to any tabloid but then again, he had given - and continue to give - many interviews where quite a few topics were often covered. “I must have mentioned it at one point, but I don’t recall when. There are often so many questions thrown out during interviews. I’m flattered that you remembered though, Viano!’’ Raju had never visited the Ofelia School but it certainly had a great reputation. Viano was attending a fine educational institute. The question earned the boy a grin. “Sometimes I do, but it only happens when they’re prying into my personal life. I hate that Renner and the kids were pushed into the spotlight because of me.” He gave Renner and Vesper one of the apologetic looks he usually gave them when the tabloids tried to get at them. “Fortunately, Quidditch players, coaches included, in Britain are provided with adequate security.”


Vi gave Vesper the most forlorn of looks. “I have to be or I’d be forced to give up training. The matrons made that very clear.” His eyes suddenly widened. Oh no! He hadn’t meant to let that slip! He didn’t want anyone to pity him because he was an orphan, and that his parents had abandoned him when he was just a few weeks old. Vi hurriedly continued the conversation in an attempt to distract everyone. “Then you must be the best sweet-maker in the world!’’ The boy meant that; Vesper’s father’s was the best he had ever tasted. “I do. I also like reading about the players.” But he hadn’t found any as interesting and inspirational as Raju.

Viano was all smiles as he took two more chocolates. “I never get stomach aches no matter the amount of sweets I eat at once,’’ he stated, somewhat proudly. “Thank you again.” Grinning, Vi continued, “I also like eating fruits, so it must be why I picked that up.” Or maybe it had been a lucky guess.

Biting into another chocolate, his gaze returned to Raju. “Si, I can see how that would be annoying. I would hate it if they did that to me too.” Tabloids had no time and place!

"Fantastic! I'll have to come up with a nice variety of chocolates for them all." He always liked to give several different kinds so there was something for everyone. Was he thoughtful? Ren honestly just thought it was polite to bring something when meeting new people. Plus Quidditch stars deserved a treat every now and again with how hard they all worked in their practices.

A smile tugged at his lips as he met Raju's gaze for a moment. "It's perfectly alright. I don't mind it." Being in the spotlight wasn't terrible. For the most part he was able to ignore it. Knowing how admired his man was, he couldn't blame them all for wanting to watch his every move.

Ren chuckled. "Why thank you, Viano. I'm glad you enjoy them so much." The best sweet-maker in the world. That was a huge title for him to live up to! "Ah that's good. A nice balanced diet is the best way to keep healthy."

That slip-up didn't go unnoticed but it did go unmentioned. For the most part. "They probably only want what's best for you. Doing well in your studies is important." Even if it didn't always feel that way! Vesper smiled gently at Vi. This kid was one of the cutest! She just wanted to squish him tightly and ruffle his hair.

"It's really not all that bad. I don't get bothered much.. maybe because I'm away at school for most of the year.." Ves shrugged a shoulder, laughing. Selecting another chocolate for herself, this time a milk chocolate one, she bit into it to find a fudge filling. Yum!

Raju gazed at Renner with pride. His other half always was so thoughtful and he appreciated it. “The team would love that,’’ he repeated honestly. He did know what the members of the team he coached were like, after all. As their gaze met again, Raju felt his guilty feelings evaporate. There was nothing that face, that smile of Renner’s wouldn’t fix. He reached for Renner’s hand, settling his within that warmth. “You’re lucky if you have a partner who handles any inconvenience you bring to their life,” he said to Viano. And lucky was what he was!

Raju’s gaze then fixed on Viano fully once more. Matrons? That meant… an orphanage, did it not? He would have asked more but given how quickly the boy changed the subject, he guessed that it wasn’t something he was keen on talking about. That was okay, Raju could respect that. Instead, he chuckled about the comment about not having stomach aches. Truthfully, the man could relate as there wasn’t any limit to white chocolate which he could eat in one sitting. “I think you have every right to be proud of that fact, Viano.”


He had not meant to mention anything to do with his life at the orphanage, which was why Vi was so relieved that none of the three chose to mention it. “Studies are even if I don’t really think I’ll be using much of it to play Quidditch.” He, in general, did enjoy learning about various subjects and couldn’t wait to get a chance to take up higher education after his Primary one. “That’s good,’’ he told Vesper and Renner, fully in awe of them both and also of Raju being fortunate to have a family that didn’t mind their lives not being so private. He hoped he would be as lucky one day.

“Well, thank you for letting me crash your vacation for a bit. I’d better get back before everyone starts wondering where I am.”

That smile from his man melted his heart! Anything he could do to show support to his partners team, consider it done. It was the least he could do when they all worked so hard. Raj was a fantastic coach! "I'll work on a few different chocolates when we get home." As always all input was welcome. Closing his fingers around Raju's hand, he gave it a squeeze. "When you're in a happy healthy relationship, nothing should come as an inconvenience." That may simply be his way or thinking but he believed it fully.

Ren has picked up on that as well but he wasn't going to question it. Not when they were all having such a nice chat. "Iron stomach's. You all have iron stomachs," he joked, laughing lightly. Ren certainly consumed his fair share of chocolate but he knew his own limit. Now. Not so much when he has been younger.

Hmm? Oh, the little guy needed to get back already? Ren nodded slightly, smiling at his youngest daughters offer to walk Viano back. "We don't mind at all, do we, Raj?" Another smile was given to Raju this time. "It was a pleasure meeting you, Vi. You're welcome to join us anytime." He meant that.

Vesper wasn't always the quietest, okay she hardly ever was quiet but she knew when not to mention something. VI had nothing to worry about when it came to her bringing up anything. It wasn't at all her place to do so. Though she did wonder who he could he in a place like that when he was so... so... Adorable!

"Papa always told me that studies are important and even if it doesn't seem so right now, one day the information you have learned years earlier may come in handy." All knowledge was special in its own way. There was never any shortage on things to learn! A smile was cast in her papa's direction before she also sent one Viano's way.

"Crash our vacation? Nah, not at all! I love making new friends. Do you want me to walk back with you?" Vesper had enjoyed looking for seashells with him and introducing him to her papa and Raju. The least she could do is make sure he got back to where he needed to be safely.

Raju really was feeling more love for Renner in that moment, something he didn’t know was possible since the two were already so deeply in love. “You know I’ll help.” His form of helping was to be the taster, ahem. A small now played on his face as his hand was squeezed and Ren replied with those heartfelt words. “I appreciate you,’’ Raju replied simply. When Viano announced that he needed to get back. This iron stomach man did like the younger and his spirit. In many ways, Viano reminded him of himself, as a youngster especially. “Nope, we don’t. I know Vesp would love to walk you back. Renner’s right, Viano, you should join us again sometime.” So Raju was not going to say ‘goodbye’ presently.


It was very obvious to Viano that the men were rather in love. He found it rather cute and he hoped that someday he would have a love like that. His attention switched back to Vesper. “That’s what I’m always told,’’ he said, making a face. “Sadly, if I don’t balance that with Quidditch, I’ll be saying goodbye to Quidditch.”


The gesture was nice, Vesper wanting to walk him back but Vi was reluctant. He didn’t want to give confirmation that he lived at an orphanage. But maybe he could let her walk with him for a bit then insist that he will go the rest of the way by himself. Yes, that sounded like a good plan. “Sure, you can walk me back. It’s what friends do, right?” He stood and looked towards the two men. “It was nice meeting you both too. Thank you for the invitation. I might drop by again.” Maybe. Viano wasn’t keen on getting close with anyone, though he’d be lying if he said he wasn’t feeling that way with Vesper. With a small wave, at Raju and Renner, he set off towards the place he called home with his new friend.

Scene 2:
September of 2116: It's the start of a new term at Hogwarts and buddies Viano and Feliks are doing what they do best, hanging out. What new things would they be able to find to keep them entertained between lessons?

Characters:
Feliks Rustokov (Kolyander)
Viano Thanatos-Misra (FearlessLeader19)

Third year already. Did Viano know what this means?! They were no longer the little kids anymore. Though they weren't necessarily the bigger kids either. Third year was difficult to place in terms of where they fit in. Not that it was terribly important or anything. Feliks was rather satisfied with who he was as a person and how things were going for him at Hogwarts. He got good grades, had a fair amount of friends and liked his Professors. So all in all, he didn't have much to complain about. Maybe.

"Hey Vi! Whatcha up to?" Fel asked casually, clapping a hand down on his friend shoulder as he caught up with him in the corridors. Just the buddy of his that he had been looking for! "Got any plans?" It was only their first weekend back at Hogwarts but he was already itching to find somewhere new around the castle or it's grounds to hangout. One were maybe if they were lucky Gabby wouldn't find them right away and bug them.

Scene 3:
May of 2118: A warm weekend in May sees Ren and Raju enjoying a short weekend away to Switzerland.

Characters:
Renner Thanatos-Misra (Kolyander)
Raji Thanatos-Misra (FearlessLeader19)

Finally.

This was going to be a marvelous weekend. Ren stepped into the small but very comfortable house that was to be all there's for the next couple of days. "Well this is nice. What do you think?" His question was directed towards Raju. "Currently not the largest place we've stayed in but it is only the two of us." Nearly all of their vacations now included at least one of their four kids.

Setting a suitcase down near the couch, Ren wasted no time at all heading for the kitchen. One couldn't cook properly if they didn't have lots of space! "Well would you look at this!" He called out, gesturing for the husband to come join him. "Isn't this a fabulous gift basket?" Said basket was overflowing with delightful snacks and drinks. Such a nice welcome if anyone asked him.