When the train arrived at the station, the first years were immediately gathered by Hagrid and led away to the boats. The second years followed the elder students over to the carriages. While others marveled at the invisible force pulling the aforementioned carriages, Ashley admired the Thestrals. She cautiously approached one and to her surprise, the bony creature not only acknowledged her, but seemed very eager to go near her. She knew Thestrals were intelligent enough to distinguish friends from foes but that was certainly a peculiar reaction.