Hogwarts: A History

by Wizardry.101

This is a work of fanfiction that tells the history of the founders of the famous School of Witchcraft and Wizardry founded in the late 10th century. The story takes place in the Wizarding World created by J.K. Rowling. This story explores the untold lives of a few of the characters created by J.K. Rowling as part of her Harry Potter series with the addition of characters of my own

Hogwarts: A History
fanfiction written by Cooper Christensen

ACT I SCENE I: EXT. FIELD IN IRELAND – DUSK (990 AD)
Open on a girl in a grassy fen surrounded by trees somewhere in southern Ireland. She's about 18, skinny, long straight blonde hair dressed in dirty peasant clothes. She stares at a snake through the uneven, open weave of an upside down handmade basket. The lays snake coiled ready to strike. A skinny boy steps up next to the cage, he has dark curly hair and thick dark eyebrows. He's about 21 years old.
THE BOY
(to the girl in a Hungarian/Irish accent)
You have to focus. Look deep into her eyes and command her to obey.
The girl looks from him and back to the snake staring intensely at it. Their eyes are locked and she says something in Parseltongue.
THE GIRL
(in parseltongue)
Come.
The snake rises and slides it's head through a large hole on the roof of the basket and slithers into the girls out stretched hand. She watches the snake as it coils around her wrist and she looks up at her smiling brother. A distant noise of a muffled mob chanting steals his attention. He looks off across the field at a shack more than a hundred meters away and behind that, a pillar of smoke rises from within the trees.
The snake in the girl's hand hisses and the boy glances at it causing it to transfigure back into a small dagger. The boy takes the newly transfigured dagger and sheathes it at his girl's attention is stolen by something flying above the trees in the distance. The figure flies closer revealing it to be a man on broomstick waving his arms and hollering toward them something indistinguishable. Then the boy catches a glimpse of the mob making their way into the large field from the surrounding forest. The torches of the mob are seen pouring out of the thick trees headed toward the shack.
The boy grabs his sister by the hand and pulls her along as they run into the trees to hide. She holds the coiled snake close to her chest as they run. Once they are properly hidden both stop to watch, panting frantically. Sounds of the man on the broom faintly trying to warn someone to stay in the hut.
Cut to:
The hut and the mob approaching. A woman has just emerged hearing the ruckus as the mob members near the hut. Seeing the mob, she heeds her husbands instructions and goes back inside to barricade the door.
THE GIRL
(whispering with the same Hungarian/Irish accent)
We have to go to her!
THE BOY
(harsh whisper, his eyes locked on the mob that has swarmed the fen)
You know the procedure. He told us to wait here.
Cut To:
The Broom rider shouting from his broomstick as he aims his wand down at a man approaching the shack.
ISZAK
Avada Kedavra!
A flash of green light emits from the broom rider's wand and collides with the man on his way to the hut. The man instantly falls to the ground dead. The mob cries out and begins slinging rocks at the wizard. He continues to fire spells at them and block a few of their shots.
The mob has penetrated the doorway and a woman can be heard struggling and then screaming as the men breech the shack. While a few archers and stoneslingers fire at the broom rider. Distracted by her screams, the broom rider is struck in the neck by an arrow and falls off his broom to the ground. The fall alone is high enough to kill him.
CUT TO:
The faces of the two watching helplessly from the trees. The girl gasps and covers her mouth with her hands. The boy watches in shock and disbelief. The men emerge from the hut and the woman has stopped screaming. They set fire to the shack and it goes up in flames in an instant. They watch from the trees as the men walk back the way they came dragging the broom rider's body with them as they go.
THE BOY
(to his sister)
Stay here.
THE GIRL
(panicked she grabs his arm)
You can't leave me!
THE BOY
I can't leave her.
(the girl lets him go)
Stay.
He stands as her eyes well with tears. He makes his way through the trees out of sight of the mob. He reaches the back door and kicks it down covering his face as he dives into the burning shack.
CUT TO:
Inside the shack, the boy tries to cough out the smoke that instantly fills his lungs. COUGHING He twirls his wand in a circular motion around his head conjuring a safety shield that keeps the smoke and flames repelled at a safe distance. He looks around and sees the woman now tied to the center support beam her back toward him. A few ropes lashed tightly around her limbs and torso hold her to the center beam leaving her feet dangling above the ground. He runs to her and as he pulls at the ropes around her wrists tied behind the beam, her hands grip his fingers gently to stop him. He moves around to face her and sees a pitchfork protruding from her stomach. A rope has been pulled across her face pinning her neck in a painful position. Her eyes are barely open and the angle her head is pinned in makes it difficult for her to see look at her son.
SARINA
(breathless, calmly)
The Hollow- You must take Salena to The Hollow.
(gasping for air)
It is a coven in the west country-
(coughing)
There is a place for the both of you at The Pilgrim's Staff tavern there.
( Her eyes glance downward at the small chain she wears around her neck then back to him)
Take it. It belongs to you now.
He gently removes it from her neck and holds it tightly in his hand.
SARINA (CONT'D)
Wear it so she does not see me like this... I never wanted to keep secrets from her, from either of you, I only-
(gasp)
-couldn't find the words
Tears roll down both of their cheeks.
SARINA (CONT'D)
(she forces a faint smile as blood begins to seep from the corner of her mouth)
You know the spell.
He carefully kisses her cheek and then backs away raising his wand at her.
Cut to:
The girl's face as she watches anxiously from the trees. A flash of familiar green illuminates her face and the realization immediately shows in her eyes.
CUT TO:
The boy emerges from the hut and walks slowly back to where his sister Salena waits in the trees. All the while he avoids her questioning gaze. He softly takes her by the shoulders and turns her away from the fiery scene keeping his eyes locked deep in the forest. She looks up at him struggling to read him, then she notices the locket he now wears around his neck. She looks at the serpentine S, inlaid with green stones knowing this to be the reason she cannot see into his thoughts. The two walk silently into the trees together and the girl looks back over her shoulder at the shack she once called home.
The shack continues to burn behind them, the blaze growing stronger and stronger. Until finally the shack crumbles spewing more sparks and smoke into the twilight sky.
End Scene
ACT I SCENE II: EXT. FORREST - NIGHT
The brother and sister walk through the forest at night. They wander toward the unknown coven called The Hollow. As they walk in the darkness through the trees, they hear horses trampling behind them. Salena looks back toward the noise in fear. Her brother pulls her into a run. The horses hooves are getting louder and the glow from the torches is getting brighter. The brother quickly pulls her to the other side of a fallen tree and they crouch down to hide behind it. The three horsemen come to a stop not far from them.
CUT TO:
The brother and sister silently wait behind the fallen tree. One of the horsemen can be seen searching with his torch. The boy readies his wand looking to Salena as she does the same. He taps his wand in the air to signal counting three beats.
THE BOY
(mouthing)
One... Two... Three
The two of them jump up firing spells at the men.
THE BOY (CONT'D)
AVADA KEDAVRA!
SALENA
CONFRINGO!
The tree next to one of the riders is hit with the girl's curse, splintering in a fiery explosion. The horses rear and squeal, a rider drops his axe, another falls out of his saddle. The last is hit in the chest by the flash of green and falls to the ground with a thud. The only rider still astride his horse kicks the horse into a frantic run away from them. The boy points his wand at the nearest of the two horses and it comes to a magical stop and trots back to them. Salena has matured ten years in the last few hours as she confidently climbs on top of the fallen tree and aims her wand at the rider that got away. With a menacing glare and an eerie mastery of self she whispers.
SALENA
(in an angry whisper)
Avada... Kedavra.
The jet of green light flares through the trees colliding with the man and he falls off the horse as it runs on without him. They both walk calmly toward the last man still breathing as he cowers on the ground where he fell.
SALENA (CONT'D)
What shall we do with this one?
A pause as her brother bends to pick up the man's axe.
THE BOY
The same as it has done unto us.
(he looks down at the man and calmly says)
Raise it against that tree won't you?
Salena readies herself and with a swish and a flick of her wand she lift s the man by his ankle. Kicking and screaming she positions him with his back against the burning tree.
THE BOY (CONT'D)
Incarcerus.
Ropes erupt from his wand and bind him tight against the tree trunk. The ropes continue to constrict and constrain him. The boy does not ease up until one of the ropes finally snakes its way across the man's face bending it in the same uncomfortable position that the witch hunters left his mother in. Salena casts a charm to quiet the man's cries of agony.
SALENA
Silencio.
Instant silence other than the crackling of the burning tree and the sound of the mans feet struggling against the bark and his bonds. The boy chokes up on the axe and advances on him with an agressive swing.
Cut to new Shot Just As the axe makes contact
Show Salena holding on to her brother's waist as he holds the reigns of the horse he enchanted to return to them. They each take one final look and then he turns the horse away from the fire. Salena's eyes just over his shoulder as they ride.
SALENA
What are we supposed to do now?
(a long pause as he glares past the camera into the forest)
Salazar?
SALAZAR
We find The Hollow.
He kicks the horse into a run and they gallop out of frame. The camera focuses on the burning tree, with the shape of a charring corpse pinned there by an axe.
End Scene
The camera lifts into the sky rapidly to reveal the title

The camera drifts down over a quaint village
ACT I SCENE III: INT. A COTTAGE HOME – NIGHT
The town square is illuminated with a red bonfire and the camera lowers on a cottage on the outskirts of the square. The camera enters through a window on the forest side of the cottage. A woman stands looking out the window into the dark woods pondering something that makes her look mournfully into the trees. She appears to be in her early thirties. She is a plump and pretty woman with strawberry blonde hair that is braided and pulled back into a messy bun. She wears nice peasant clothes in an autumn color palette and an apron covered in flour.
She shakes her head back to the present and returns to kneading the dough on the counter in front of her. She works silently for a moment then stops when she hears a commotion outside. Loud voices, and the squeal of a horse. A large burly and hairy looking man comes in through the front door looking tired. She crosses to him eager to hear the news as she wipes her hands on her apron. He closes the door behind him.
DEORWINE
(frazzled)
The horses came back without their riders! One of them didn't return at all. They want a squadron to go out and finish the hunt.
WOMAN
(worried)
You should go with them.
DEORWINE
(pulling on a jacket and speaking close to her face in a hushed tone)
I gave Iszak your broomstick so he could get away and warn his family but I couldn't do any more or I would have been discovered.
WOMAN
(She pulls the lapels of the coat to kiss him deeply)
We did what we could. Our attention now should be reserved for his posterity.
(They separate he gives her a smile and turns to the door)
Deorwine, lead them North.
[DEORWINE: M Anglo-Saxon Derived from the Old English elements deor "dear" and wine "friend".]
He gives her a nod and opens the door. The noise is amplified as he does and the woman watches for a moment at the open door. The horses that ran off without their riders are raring and bucking as the men try to grab their reigns and calm them. A man runs passed the open door with a torch and she closes the door shutting out the noise. She pauses for only a moment then hurries up the narrow stairway of the cottage and into a dark bedroom where a golden cup sits on a chest of drawers. The Cup of Helga Hufflepuff. The cup's contents cast ripples of light onto the ceiling of the cottage bedroom. She takes the cup and tips it upside down, pouring out what looks like liquefied gold. It hangs in the air and floats around her torso.
The weightless liquid contains reflections of scenes that glimmer and rotate around her like a carousel. The first is of the man on the broomstick, referred to as Iszak, being struck by the arrow and falling in animated stills to his death. His children can both be seen watching in the background - Another image drifts into view of Salazar being told by his mother Sarina to find The Hollow, only her figure is distorted by a murky cloudy substance - Then the image of Salena and the cloudy substance obscures Salazar from view as they walk away from the burning shack – Next a still of their run-in in with the horsemen, Salazar's figure still blocked by the murky substance – Finally a frozen blurry glimpse of Salena resting on the murky figure's back as they ride the horse away from the burning tree.
After studying the images in the liquefied gold she makes a scooping motion through the air a few times and the gold liquid is sucked back into the cup. She stuffs the cup into a large satchel that she throws over her shoulder and retrieves a wand from the folds of her dress. She pulls a shawl over herself and disapparates in one fluid motion.
End scene
ACT I SCENE IV: EXT. FOREST ROAD - NIGHT
Helga apparates into a dark forest near a road. A moment later she is startled by the quick stamping of hooves as a horse and its two riders fly passed her. Startled, she looks after the horse. As it runs away from her she disapparates again.
CUT TO:
Salazar as his attention is stolen by the glow of a campfire just off the side of the road up ahead.
SALAZAR
(readying his wand)
Wand at the ready Salena!
Salena lifts her head from his shoulder where she was shielded from the cold wind. She sees the light and holds her wand firmly.
The woman stands at the side of the road, her campfire a few meters behind her. She gently waves them down with a faint glow at the tip of her wand. $ Salazar kicks the horse and they sprint past her.
SALENA
Pull back Sal! She's a witch!
SALAZAR
Could you get anything from her?
SALENA
No, I think we ran by too quickly.
SALAZAR
Then we're not stopping.
Salena looks back longingly as the woman lowers her wand almost discouraged to see them ride away.
Distant shot of the horse sprinting down the road
They don't get far before the blue glow of a patronus light catches up to them. Now keeping speed with the horse, the patronus is in the form of a badger hobbling through the air comically rolling onto its back to glide easily alongside them, giving them a cocky nod.
SALENA
(excited)
Look! It's a familiar! Like the one mother could conjure! Turn back! Turn back this instant!
Salazar slows the horse and they trot back following the patronus to its conjurer. As they approach her she stands calmly on the side of the road with the patronus over her shoulder, it dissolves into the air and she speaks.
WOMAN
Thought you might be in need of a rest.
Salazar looks suspicious while Salena looks enchanted by her. Other than her parents and her brother she has never met anyone from the wizarding community. The woman seems startled and instinctively grabs a familiar small topaz colored amulet around her neck, then looks at Salena who had been eyeing her. Salena breaks the connection and Helga releases the amulet with a small smirk.
SALAZAR
(cautiously)
Why would you make such an effort to help us?
WOMAN
I was given a premonition of you riding away from the witch hunters. You did quite well, but I fear you haven't had the time to gather provisions to continue at this pace for long.
SALAZAR
Your concern is appreciated, but we must decline and press on.
WOMAN
(he nudges the horse to begin trotting away)
And your destination?
SALAZAR
(incredulously as he begins to trot away)
I must say, it is very brazen of you to think you can question us about matters that are ours and ours alone.
WOMAN
I agree with you there. I only wondered if you needed directions to get to The Hollow.
Salazar stunned by the mention of the very coven they're seeking he stops the horse and shifts in the saddle to look back at her.
CUT TO:
The three of them sitting around the campfire. The two warm themselves while seated on a log as the woman stokes the fire. The horse is tied to a tree and can be seen feeding on the grass in the background. The woman levitates two meat pies from under the fiery coals and passes them through the air to the two of them on freshly conjured wooden plates. Then she conjures two wooden utensils and passes them through the air as well. Both Salena and Salazar are in awe at her skill.
WOMAN (CONT'D)
Well, get on with it then!
(they dig in to their humble feast)
The names Helga by the way.
SALENA
(nearly choking trying not to burn her throat with the steaming bite of her pie)
I'm Salena, and this is my brother Salazar.
HELGA
Yes, I've known you two for a while now.
SALAZAR
(contentiously)
And how is it that you know us? Because I think I would remember meeting you?
HELGA
Oh, that'll take too long to explain. What you really want to know about is The Hollow, am I right?
Helga's hand goes back to the amulet and she looks at Salena sideways. Salena goes back to eating her pie as if nothing happened. Salazar looks suspiciously at each of them.
SALAZAR
That amulet you have, where did you get it?
HELGA
This? Actually, I purchased it from you father.
SALENA
(the siblings look at one another then back at Helga)
You knew our father?
HELGA
Yes. Not well, but he knocked on my door to sell me his trinkets. I recognized your father as a conman from the moment I saw him.
(they both hang their heads ashamed)
However, I didn't see him as a swindler.
(Salena looks up at her solemnly)
I saw a father, doing everything he could to provide for his family.
(Salena smiles at her with tears in her eyes)
I was taught that when you see someone in need, you must lend a hand. I was told this amulet would fend off Dark Forces, so I purchased it. I offered him a drink to give him the strength to continue on. Even if his wares are lackluster at best, it's hard work caring for a family.
SALAZAR
Your kind words on our father's behalf are much appreciated. We are ashamed that his crafts didn't always work the way they were intended to.
HELGA
Not at all. He told me it would keep unwanted Cunning Folk from entering my mind, and he wasn't far off. I see now that it warns against the attempts of a legilimens like your sister.
SALAZAR
(confused)
What did you call her?
HELGA
(turning to Salena)
Did no one tell you that you were a legilimens?
SALENA
A what?
HELGA
A legilimens is a witch or wizard who can read another's thoughts. You can see into the minds of others, can you not?
SALENA
Yes! I can! Can you as well?
HELGA
I'm more gifted as an occlumens actually.
(seeing their confusion)
That's a term for those that can keep a legilimens from penetrating their mind.
SALAZAR
Our mother had a locket that could do that, in order to keep Salena out of her thoughts. He fashioned the amulets he sold after her original.
HELGA
Ah, the sequel is never as good as the original.
(sipping from her cup and holding her amulet in her hand)
This one seems to simply radiate heat when someone is attempting to enter your thoughts, as a kind of warning. I suppose it came in handy tonight.
SALENA
Please forgive me, I'm so used to using my gift I forget to have any restraint.
HELGA
Not to worry love. It is your gift that will help you find refuge at The Hollow. It has become a highly sought after coven, notorious for vagabonds from all over. Many travel every year looking to find sanctuary, only to discover that admittance is not free.
SALAZAR
(still gruff)
We have no money or valuables we are willing to trade, so kindly be forthcoming with the coven's price before we waste the trek.
HELGA
They're not after your money. They admit only the bold and t he brave, not to mention those that show impressive magical ability before they welcome you as one of their own. Also
(resentfully)
"loyalty to your magical status and community" won't hurt.
She gives a huff and rolls her eyes at the thought.
SALAZAR
We are purebloods there is no question about that... What is it they look for as far as "impressive magical ability"?
HELGA
As I said, Salena's natural ability as a legilimens will be enough for her to gain admittance. Most witches and wizards take years of training to master that skill.
(jostling Salena's knee in a congratulatory fashion, then turns to Salazar)
And what can you do?
SALAZAR
Excuse me?
HELGA
What is it you can do to prove your worth to The Hollow?
An awkward moment passes as Salazar looks down at the fire, considering his own worth. Salena starts to see the discouragement that he feels and sits up.
SALENA
Salazar can speak to snakes.
HELGA
(looks surprised from Salena to Salazar)
Ah yes, I have heard of tongues to speak to creatures. Herpo the Foul of Ancient Greece was one of the most famous parselmouths. But it's rare to meet someone alive today with that ability.
SALAZAR
(continuing to stare into the flames)
I've always been able to speak it... I didn't realize how unique it was.
HELGA
For that I am truly sorry. It is a crime to rob a young person such as yourself from the little humility they have left.
SALAZAR
(taking offense at her comment he jumps to his feet effectively throwing his pie into the fire)
We didn't ask for your charity! So don't-
HELGA
(calm but firm)
-But you have taken it...
(Salazar stops)
...and now you've thrown it into the fire.
Salazar looks like he's about to explode when Salena grabs his hand gently and looks up at him imploringly.
SALENA
Please Sal... I'm terrified and she's the only kindness we've seen.
Glaring at Helga, Salazar lowers back down onto the log they share.
HELGA
Well, you have spoiled the end of a perfectly good meat pie and I'm afraid thats the last I have of that. But I can offer you a drink to cool you off.
Helga jovially winks at Salazar who continues to glare at her as she passes her cup embellished with an emblem of a badger to Salena. Salena examines it, seeing that its empty. She eyes Helga who simply tilts her head as a gesture to pass it on. Salena nudges him with the cup to break his death stare. He looks at the cup for a moment noticing that it's completely empty. He eyes her as if she is playing a trick on him, one to kick him while he's down.
HELGA (CONT'D)
Go on, drink!
He takes the cup, raises it to his lips and visibly drinks something from the empty vessel. His expression cannot be denied. He is obviously grateful for the drink.
HELGA (CONT'D)
I thought you might like that. A special serving of butterbeer from an old family recipe.
SALENA
Butterbeer?
HELGA
Yes love, go on, have a sip. She won't run out. That's a special cup with no bottom. It's connected directly to my own personal stores.
Helga smiles discreetly as Salena takes the cup from Salazar and drinks eagerly, emerging with a foam mustache and a wide smile.
SALENA
It's the most delicious thing I've ever tasted!
HELGA
(a flattered laugh)
There'll be more of that found at The Pilgrim's Staff Tavern.
SALAZAR
That's exactly where we're meant to go for shelter. So you do know the place?
HELGA
Now do you think you can see fit to trust me at last?
SALAZAR
(looking ashamed because of his behvaior)
My apologies Miss. I appreciate your help very much. It's just been a... a trying day.
HELGA
That's saying the least. After all that you've been through, you have every right to be a bit apprehensive.
They give each other reassuring looks of gratitude and forgiveness. Salena smiles and looks down to admire the cup in her hands.
SALENA
The emblem on your cup, it is of your familiar is it not?
HELGA
My familia-? Oh you mean my patronus. Yes as a matter of fact it is. It's clear you have not been properly educated in the magical arts, have you?
Silence as the two shift awkwardly looking at each other from the corner of their eyes. Realizing that she may have offended them she tries to remedy her error.
HELGA (CONT'D)
It is also clear to me that you are both gifted beyond your years, even without proper training. You will learn in no time from those in The Hollow.
SALAZAR
I hope you're right. I suppose we could use all the help we can get. So if you wouldn't mind telling us how to get there, we best be on our way.
HELGA
I assume you never learned to apparate. I would take you myself, if I wasn't worried about getting one of us splinched. It's just as well, no one can apparate within a certain proximity to the coven.
(getting to her feet)
However, its much too late to begin a trek like that without a bit of rest. You can leave first thing in the morning.
SALAZAR
There's not time to waste with the Witch Hunters on our trail. We really must be going.
HELGA
I have it on good authority that the Witch Hunters have been rerouted to to the North. You will both rest for the night and in the morning I will show you the way to the coven.
HELGA (CONT'D)
That is neither a request nor a command but I expect you'll follow it.
Helga turns and swiftly transfigures two leaves on the ground into two simple tents for them to use. Salazar exchanges a look with Salena. Helga eyes them from over her shoulder as she summons some bedding and pillows inside the impromptu shelter she's created. Salena speaks softly to Salazar.
SALENA
That horse could use a rest Sal. We might as well spend the night.
Salazar nods and they both stand to help with the tents if they can. Helga dowses the flames by absorbing them into her wand and the scene fades to black.
End Scene
ACT I SCENE V: EXT. CAMPSITE IN THE FOREST - MORNING
Open on a dewy morning, the sun still low in the sky but piercing through the trees beautifully. Salazar and Salena share a tent. Salazar wakes peacefully to the sounds of the forest. For a moment it seems he's forgotten where he is, then remembering he sits up with a start. Salena is jostled awake by him and he looks around for signs of danger. He notices that Helga's tent is packed up and gone.
SALAZAR
She's left us!
(Salena sits up with a start to see for herself. Salazar begins rolling up the blankets to take with them huffing and puffing over the desertion)
And without giving the directions she promised!
As he says the word "directions" Helga's Patronus emerges silently from the ashes of the fire pit behind him. The figure of a badger does a back flip through the air then hovers looking at Salena as her eyes light up. Salena taps Salazar's shoulder and he turns around impatiently. He is struck with surprise to see the badger floating back to the road then it turns and looks at them as if to show that it is ready to lead the way. Salena looks around the forest for a sign of Helga but there is none, instead she discovers two new traveling cloaks hanging on the tree near where the horse has been tied up. One a deep emerald green, the other a classy silver-Grey. She smiles at Salazar and helps to gather the tent up. The look of shock and surprise hasn't left Salazar's face as he stares blankly at the badger.
Cut to montage
They trot out on the wooded country road and follow it onto a hillside with the patronus leading the way for them. Salena wearing the green cloak, Salazar the Grey. They take a ferry across the Irish Sea and climb over the Cambrian mountains in Wales. Show them at camp practicing their magic and making the most of their time with the patronus guardian lingering nearby. Different angles of them riding by foggy moors, and through rocky caverns. Then finally emerging to the top of a mountain overlooking a valley with a quaint village down below.
End Scene
ACT I SCENE VI: EXT. VALLEY OF THE HOLLOW - NIGHT
The badger leads them down the mountainside as it begins to rain. As they reach the basin their horse trots slowly through the long valley at night. The montage ends with the horse sloshing through the mud in a dark ravine. The rain still pouring down hard. Without warning their patronus guide vanishes as the horse clomps into town. They look around for their guide which has clearly dissapeared. They realize this must be the place. The small cottages and streets look empty.
As they make their way further down the street a passerby glares at them. A few people poke their heads out their windows to stare at the two strangers. Salazar notices a sign hanging above a porch with a lantern giving light to read, "The Pilgrim's Staff Tavern". A two story, thatched roof tavern stands casting lights from its windows onto the muddy puddles below. Salazar dismounts with a splash and leads the horse to the rail to tie him up with the other horses. He raises his arms to help Salena down and the two slosh up the the porch steps to the front door. With a look at Salena he pushes the door open and they enter.
Immediately they are bathed in warm light and loud tavern ambiance. The glow from the fireplace warms the whole tavern. A few heads turn to see who entered but most people continue eating and drinking at the long tables in the center of the room. A group of witches and wizards talk loudly at their table. The roof leaks in a few areas and a couple of witches clank drinks together, the noise causes a pair of doxies to fly out of the curtains and away from the clinking metal. Most wizards are dressed elegantly and a house elf is seen playing an array of instruments all at the same time next to the hearth. A violent bolt of lightning sends a man off his chair writhing on the floor. The attacker downs a stein of something while his friends roar in laughter and purple smoke fizzles from his targets twitching body. The group of laughing friends help the man back into his seat, prepared to carry on their conversation as if nothing happened.
Salena looks at Salazar terrified. Salazar nudges Salena toward a corner table in the back of the house. As they make their way back a small house elf balancing a large tray of dishes on her head excuses herself passed them. They both give a start but carry on to the back of the tavern.
They arrive at the quiet table and Salazar notices a large gruff looking man eyeing him from behind the bar. Salazar looks off in another direction hoping he will too. The man signals another house elf working behind the counter. The house elf makes her way over to them without needing to duck under the bar to reach them on the other side of the room. Approaching them to take their order in a helpful but tired drawl.
PADDOCK
What'll it be?
SALAZAR
(Salena looks to Salazar)
Nothing for us, we haven't any money. We just came in to get out of the storm.
PADDOCK
Not to worry. Paddock will get the Missy and the Sir somefin warm. On the house.
[Paddock is the name of one of the animal guardians, or familiars, that the three witches from Macbeth summon and confer with.]
With a wink the elf scurries behind the counter again and can be seen whispering to the man. He spits in a mug and makes his way from behind the bar over to them. As he approaches Salena and Salazar both prepare to be thrown out.
SALAZAR
We didn't mean to call attention to your staff, Sir. We just got into town and needed to rest a bit before finding a place for the night.
DEIRDRE
(gruffly)
Who are yeh from?
SALAZAR
(confused by the phrasing)
Wh-who are we sent from? Well I am the eldest and only son of Iszak of Hungary and Sarina of Dorset, and this is their only daughter. Both of us purebloods sir, I can assure you.
DEIRDRE
(looking from him to Salena he places his hands domineeringly on their table and leans in over them)
I'm warnin' yew lad, that's an awful lie if yew haven't any proof.
SALAZAR
(slightly panicked he tries to explain)
We are purebloods but I'm afraid I don't know how to prove it to you. We can offer you our horse in exchange for room and board for the night, and the hot meal your elf said it would bring.
DEIRDRE
-Her.
SALAZAR
Beggin' your pardon?
DEIRDRE
(sternly)
The elf is a she not an it. And she is no ones property. You understand?
SALAZAR
(further panicking)
Of course, I- I-
DEIRDRE
I don' give a damn about yer ruddy blood status. I'm talkin' about proof tha Sarina was really yer mother.
SALENA
(reading the man's mind)
You knew our mother?
DEIRDRE
Aye I knew er. Better than she knew erself and I know if she sent you here, she would have insured you had some way to prove your affiliation.
SALAZAR
(Salazar reveals the locket still hanging around his neck)
This was worn by our mother for most of her life until she gave it to me... as her dying wish.
At this the man's eyes widen. He takes a long breath and hangs his head to the floor.
DEIRDRE
She was a majestic soul she was.
(he lifts his head again to meet their eyes with tears welling up in his own)
The poor thing sendin' yeh here on yer own. I know she must'a been right terrified for yeh...
SALENA
How did you know our mother?
DEIRDRE
Her father and I ran this very tavern. Known 'em since I first arrived here. Good blood, despite this coven's effects on 'em...
SALAZAR
They... lived here?
DEIRDRE
O course they did!
(boisterously gesturing to the rafters)
He built this tavern with his bare hands mind yew.
(noting the excitement on their faces)
Best naht be gettin' yer hopes high about 'im. He's dead too...
(Salena's eyes fall)
But don' yeh worry yeh'll be alright here with us. It won't be easy and it won't be free no doubt. You'll need to pull yer own 'round here, but any family of Sarina is welcome.
SALAZAR
(with a slight bow)
We thank you sir.
DEIRDRE
Don't mention it. I think of it as recompense for the way I was taken in by your grandfather all those years ago. Now will you stop callin' me sir? Names Mistress Deirdre tuh yeh both.
[DEIRDRE: Scottish female. In Greek mythology she was a goddess associated with witchcraft and crossroads.]
Salazar's eyes grow wide as the shock and embarrassment come over him. He stammers to apologize, while Salena suppresses a laugh.
SALENA
Don't mind my brother, he's been conditioned to notice little else other than blood status.
Paddock returns with two large steins of butterbeer and bowls of stew.
DEIRDRE
(to Paddock)
These are Sarina's two children, they'll be stayin' with us as they've got no where else to go.
PADDOCK
(setting the table with wide eyes beaming up at them)
What fine tidings! Terrible about Mistress Sarina though. Just terrible. Paddock still can't believe Sarina's gone so soon.
DEIRDRE
Yes everyone was fond of 'er.
SALENA
Why is it you don't seem surprised to hear she's passed?
DEIRDRE
Sarina left her mark on this coven, you can be sure about that. We knew somethin terrible had happened a few weeks ago.
(slightly distracted by a ruckus of new customers at another table)
Well never mind, you eat up and enjoy. Paddock here will gladly show you to yer room when yer finished.
(then she hollers to the newcomers making all the noise)
Oi! No beasts allowed! Get that murtlap outta me pub!
A murtlap squeals as she stomps off to deal with the problem. Paddock finishes setting the table with their silverware.
PADDOCK
If Sarina's kin need anything at all just give us a snap.
And with a snap of her fingers she disapparates. They catch the familiar scent of butter beer in the steins in front of them and notice that they are actually full. Their exhaustion and starvation prevent them from questioning why the butterbeer is not invisible this time, and they eat and drink gratefully. The tavern isn't very large but their little corner table is secluded enough. Salazar keeps his hood on as Salena has lowered hers happily enjoying the safety and the ambiance of the tavern.
Rain falls heavily against the window behind them. The door is thrust open and a group of laughing witches and wizards enter the pub noisily, intentionally making a scene. Loud and obnoxious, they remove their wet cloaks to reveal that they're all dressed in noble robes of a red, orange, and yellow color scheme. The leader of their gang is tall and striking young man about 18. He has short brown hair and thick stubble covers his strong jawline. Even from over his thick robes its clear his fit. He stands with a tight waist that tappers up into a strapping pair of rounded shoulders. He raises a thick leather bound book like a trophy over his head and jeers.
LEAD BOY
Did you see his face when we took the grimoire and still sent him packing?
(his gang all chortle)
He knew we would have it from him either way it went.
Another boy by the name of Hereward does a crude impression of the man they're making fun of. He has curly blonde hair on top of a long horse like face with large teeth to complete the likeness.
HEREWARD
P-p-please... I already p-paid you the fee for trespassing and sh-shan't do it again
(the group laugh harder, as Hereward takes the book from the leader)
Funny how this is the one he was so unwilling to part with. Must be the most notorious of his collection.
LEAD BOY
Serves him right, the old warlock. Trying to pawn his second rate grimoires off on this coven.
(proudly)
We made damn certain that he won't be making that mistake twice.
A girl by the name of Nerys pipes up. She has thin black hair that hangs just above shoulder length and frames her short cramped face with a permanent look of having something sour on her gums.
NERYS
If he wants to keep any memory of how to find his way home, that is.
They cheer and chortle and take places at the bar just opposite the entrance. A wizard seated nearby takes his drink and moves to another table, annoyed by their shouts. The girl leans over the bar to bark orders at Paddock.
NERYS (CONT'D)
(snobbish)
Six Fire Whiskeys Paddock. And my father's bill will do nicely.
Paddock is extremely quick with their order as she magically pours their drinks into large metal steins and levitates them up onto the counter. The lead boy takes his drink and spins around on his stool to look out over the pub. His eyes meet Salena's, who has been staring at him since they came in. She looks down at her bowl quickly as he takes a swig of the fire whiskey without dropping his gaze, then smiles haughtily at Salena. He swaggers off the stool and stalks along the bar toward their table. Nerys watches curiously as he leaves.
As he crosses the room he takes no consideration for the house elf bussing a nearby table. Knocking her over without a glance as her freshly bussed table items clang to the stone floor. Salena notices him approaching and worriedly tries to avoid eye contacting hoping he will leave them alone. Instead he walks directly up to the table.
LEAD BOY
(Addressing Salazar still hidden behind the shadow of the hood)
Even with such fair figures like yours, you two should know this is a domain with the strictest policy of privacy.
(no response)
Why doesn't the lass lower that pretty hood of hers? Perchance her beauty will persuade me to allow her to stay.
(he looks back to Salena who looks frightened)
Don't be shy, I'm sure you'll do just fine.
(He reaches across the table to touch Salena's arm)
If you plan on staying, I'll need to see your "talents" for myself.
As he reaches slowly closer Salazar violently draws his wand and drops his hood pointing directly at the agressor's nose.
SALAZAR
Perchance THIS will persuade you to leave us to our drinks, if you know what's good for you.
The boy steps back, his arms raised lazily with a crooked smile as his gang hurry to his side, the bar is quiet as they all watch the back table. His smile fades as his audience grows and his smile is replaced with feigned remorse.
LEAD BOY
I see I have misspoken...
(he takes another step back then quickly draws his own wand)
Not a fair face at all, but rather a cross dressing peasant and his wench!
His gang laugh. Salena looks terrified. They glare at each other for a moment and then Salazar makes a small movement but the boy is quicker. He sends a long bright orange cord out of the tip of his wand with a small flick. The cord has frayed, finger-like strands on the end that grip Salazar around his neck and lift him into the air, slamming his head against a beam along the ceiling of the tavern. Salena screams as Salazar's wand erupts with red sparks that fracture the table spilling the contents. The pub watches and begins to laugh as Salazar kicks in the air and claws with his arms at the chord strangling him. His wand falls from his fingers as he begins to lose consciousness.
DEIRDRE
Oi! Godric!
Deirdre stands on top of the bar, her wand pointed at the boy from across the tavern, her face twisted angrily. Godric cocks his head to look at his new challenger.
DEIRDRE (CONT'D)
Ya best let 'im down! I've told yeh before, I won't have the likes of yew showin' off in me tavern. Or yeh'll find a new place to drink away yer inheritance!
Godric looks at her, the same prideful smile on his face as before. He looks around at his followers and with a shrug he drops the cord and Salazar falls with a crash onto the broken remains of the table, food and debris spilling on him as he lays face down on the stone floor. Salena jumps to his side as Salazar gasps for air. The gang meander out of the pub as if they did exactly what they came there to do.
DEIRDRE (CONT'D)
(to the silent crowd)
Back teh yer drinks!
She fires a loud pop from her wand and the house elf in the corner starts up his one man band again. The tavern returns to their drinks as they were told. Deirdre glares angrily at the corner table. She drops her head with a sigh as she watches Salena helping Salazar to his feet.
End scene
ACT I SCENE VII: INT. SECOND FLOOR, TAVERN - NIGHT
Open on a vacant bedroom in the dark. The door opens and Deirdre enters flippantly flicking her want to light the candle on the bedside table. Illuminated the room is drab and small with only a bed and a chest of drawers.
DEIRDRE
(lecturing)
I knew when I opened me door to a pair of Sarina's kin we'd see some trouble, but I must say I'm surprised to be havin' so much of it this early on.
SALENA
(after a silence as she helps Salazar to the bed)
We feel terrible Mistress. My brother has never done anything like that before.
DEIRDRE
(shifting her tone)
I know that young thug Godric "the great" had more to do with it than yew did. He thinks because his Father founded the coven he can get away with anythin'. One day his antics are goin' to catch up to him, mark me words.
Salazar lays back on the bed covering his eyes with the back of his forearm. Deirdre watches as Salena worries over him.
DEIRDRE (CONT'D)
Well, yeh'll be stayin in here. The work'll start at sun up so you be'er get yer rest. I'll send Paddock up here with a fresh pair of meals for yew.
SALENA
We can't express what this means to us, Mistress. You have our gratitude.
DEIRDRE
(glances around the room with a sigh then tenderly)
Sleep well, li'l jinxes.
She exits and closes the door behind her. The two are left in the room, with the thunderstorm and muffled voices from downstairs making the only sounds. Salena sits on the side of the bed.
SALENA
(hesitantly)
Are you feeling alright?
SALAZAR
...No Salena. I'm not.
SALENA
(pause)
Well that is the first time you've ever been in a wizarding duel before, and in your defense-
SALAZAR
(curtly)
-I didn't ask you to defend me! You couldn't step up in the moment so why try now.
They sit in silence as the rain continues to fall outside. Then there's a knock at the door.
SALENA
Come in!
Paddock opens the door and closes it behind her magically. Tentatively entering the room. She carries a tray with two bowls steaming with fresh stew and a large crust of bread.
PADDOCK
Pardon ol' Paddock. Mistress sent Paddock to bring up the meals straight away, she did.
SALENA
Thank you Paddock. We're sorry for the trouble we caused.
PADDOCK
Not to worry Miss. Godric is always stirrin' up mischief. Paddock is happy to be havin Sarina's kin here. What a shame to be hearin' about poor Sarina's passing.
SALENA
If you're not too busy, I do wonder if you might tell us how you and Mistress Deirdre came to know our mother.
PADDOCK
(excited for the opportunity)
Indeed Miss, Eat, eat! And Paddock will tell all about it.
(hopping up onto the side of the bed)
Sarina was always kind to new faces like Paddock and the Mistress, she was...
Reminiscing with a smile as Salena grabs the bread, takes a bite, and tosses the rest on Salazar's chest. She scoops up the bowl for herself to cozy up and hear about her mother.
PADDOCK (CONT'D)
Paddock has known Sarina almost as long as Paddock has been acquainted with Mistress Deirdre. It was just Paddock and her two small children, after we had been displaced from the Elvish Parish Paddock called home.
(remembering remorsefully)
Back when things were peaceful... After magic became the enemy, that peace was chased out of Paddock's life.
(looking up at Salena with big watery eyes)
Witch Hunters raided that place and burned it to the ground. Paddock's husband was among those that defended it with their lives, he was.
SALENA
Oh Paddock, that's awful.
PADDOCK
Yes... Everything changed when the magic that used to serve the muggles, became their enemy.
SALENA
You mean muggles used to use magic?
PADDOCK
Why yes of course! Paddock is surprised you were never told of the glory days. When Muggles and Magic folk alike would buy and sell together. The muggles came to call the witches and wizards Cunning Folk for all the innovation that was produced by the sharing of their practices.
SALENA
What changed?
PADDOCK
Paddock wishes she knew. Deirdre says those who reigned over the land felt they were not needed. The people were given the tools to handle their own tribulations rather than rely on their government.
SALENA
But isn't that a good thing?
PADDOCK
Apparently not for those in power. Due to the growing threat of violence, it became unsafe for Elves to live on their own, as all the Elvish communities were being hunted down and destroyed. This forced the elves to beg for work that would offer room and board. It was the protection found inside wizarding houses that caused our kind to trade a living wage for simply being able to live... But the stars aligned and sent Paddock a friend in Deirdre. When Paddock was begging for work on the side of the road, Mistress Deirdre informed Paddock that she was in search of a coven. Covens were still a novel idea as they had been poppin up all over England only since magic was banned. Deirdre insisted that Paddock and Paddock's two children went along with her. Bless her heart.
SALENA
So those are your children down stairs then?
PADDOCK
Yes indeed Missy! Paddock has a daughter by the name of Grey, she's the one waitin' tables. And then there's Paddock's only son Malkin, who was givin' the entertainment downstairs.
[Graymalkin is the name of one of the other Wayward Sisters familiars in Macbeth.]
SALENA
Well we look forward to meeting them both. We'll be helping you with the work for the next few days.
SALAZAR
(frustrated)
Is that what you think?
(Salena and Paddock look up at Salazar surprised by his sudden outburst)
You think we're here for a nice visit do you?
SALENA
I didn't think-
SALAZAR
-That's right you didn't think. You didn't think that we'd be stuck here for who knows how long. Wake up Salena! We're on our own now. With no one, and no where else to go.
SALENA
...You're right. Our life is in our hands. Which means we get to choose what we make of it. If you want to choose to wallow in self pity, go right ahead. But we're not alone... We still have each other.
She crosses to the other side of the bed and climbs under the dusty feather blanket to go to sleep, her back to Salazar. He starts to defuse and humble himself.
PADDOCK
(stands awkwardly waiting in the silence)
Perhaps Paddock will find another time to tell you all about Sarina. Best get back to the kitchen. Goodnight then.
With another snap of her fingers Paddock disapparates from the room. Salazar sits silently for a moment with the rain still leaking in. He opens the bed covers and climbs in as well, then blows out the candle leaving the scene in total darkness. Only the rain and Salena's soft sobs are heard in the darkness as the scene fades to black.
End of Chapter 1