
The Secret Elf Family
By Elisabeth G

20 Feb, 2024

In the quaint village of Norrbotten, nestled amidst the snowy landscapes of northern Sweden, existed a world unbeknownst to many. Tiny house-elves lived secretly in the attics of the old wooden houses, each elf family mirroring the human one beneath their floorboards.

The Sjogren family was one of these elf families, composed of a mom, dad, three children, and their grandparents. During the day, they would collect sticks for the fireplace, bake tiny loaves of bread, and sew miniature clothes.

Their home was a cozy attic, filled with the aroma of pine and cinnamon. It was snugly decorated with acorn caps for bowls, leafy quilts, and firefly lamps. They lived in harmony, cherishing their secret existence.

Meanwhile, the human family below was oblivious to their tiny neighbors. They consisted of a loving couple and their two curious children: 10-year-old Elin and 8-year-old Oskar.

One day, while playing in the backyard, Elin and Oskar noticed a tiny creature collecting twigs. To their astonishment, it was one of the Sjogren children, visibly startled by the sudden encounter.

The children, fascinated, decided to follow the elf child back to the attic. The Sjogren family was initially apprehensive, but the children's kindness and respect towards their home soon eased their worries.

Thus, began a remarkable friendship. Elin and Oskar learned about the magical world of the elves, their customs, their songs, and their stories. They promised to keep their secret and to protect them.

In return, the elves taught the children the elfish language, how to bake their delicious bread, and the art of making firefly lamps. The attic became a haven of shared laughter, wisdom, and enchanting tales.

The children began helping the elves in their daily chores. Elin and Oskar would collect twigs for the elves' fireplaces, while the elves would mend their torn clothes and leave sweet elfish treats under their pillows.

The Sjogren family also shared their ancient wisdom about the forest and its creatures, which the children used to help protect the village's wildlife. This magical friendship grew stronger with each passing day.

Elin and Oskar's parents noticed their children's newfound happiness and the mysterious treats under their pillows. They didn't know about the elves but were glad to see their children cherishing their childhood.

The years passed, and Elin and Oskar grew older. But their bond with the Sjogren family remained unbroken. They continued their visits to the attic, sharing stories and learning from each other.

As the children approached adulthood, they swore to protect the elves' secret and ensure their safety. They promised the Sjogren family that they would always be there for them, just as the elves had been for them.

Time flew by, and Elin and Oskar eventually moved out for college. The house felt empty without their laughter and stories. But every holiday, they would return, and the attic would come alive with joy once again.

When Elin and Oskar had kids of their own, they introduced them to their old friends in the attic. Just like their parents, the new generation was awed by the magical world of the elves and vowed to protect them.

The Sjogren family and the human family beneath them lived side by side, helping each other and sharing their lives. This unique bond, forged in childhood and nurtured over the years, was a testament to the beauty of friendship and magic.

And so, the houses in Norrbotten village were not just home to humans but also to the tiny elf families. The villagers never knew about their magical neighbors, living harmoniously just above their heads.

Elin and Oskar, now old, still visited their elfish friends, their eyes sparkling with the same curiosity and wonder as when they were children. The secret of the elves was passed down, generation after generation, always to be cherished and protected.

As the snow fell gently on Norrbotten village, the attics were filled with warmth, stories, and laughter. The magical bond between the elf families and their human friends continued to flourish, a testament to the magic of friendship and the enchantment of hidden worlds.

In the end, Elin and Oskar's childhood was more than just memories; it was a legacy of love, respect, and friendship with the secret elf family. And so, the magic continued, hidden in the attics of Norrbotten, waiting to be discovered by another pair of curious eyes.