Legends Among Us
- By Sal

This month at SOUP, fairy tales are running rampant through the halls. How can one finish an article with faeries, mice, dwarfs, and dragons running amok? To think, I was all for this idea. And then a dragon ate my first article. So, this month with Legends Among Us , we will be discussing not dragons!

Many years ago, stories were written of grim tales. Many Muggle stories can be translated into that of the wizarding world. Today's tale falls much into that category. The Wizard Tale of Sleeping Beauty. Giambattista Basile and the Brothers Grimm spun fascinating tales, though none like this legend.

One day a wizard and witch had a beautiful baby girl. The wizard had been a rather popular Quidditch player during his time at Hogwarts. Many admirers were rather shocked when he married this witch. A single woman, obsessed with rage, vowed to end this happy union. So, Melosanda, struck a deal with with a demon. One who would turned the child into one of his own kind.

At a "Welcome Home" party thrown by friends of the wizard and witch, Melosanda awaited. She had brought a gift for the baby. As soon as the gift was open a curse flew out, turning the baby into an imp. The wizard and witch tried to turn their baby back. To no avail, their magic failed. Only one person could change the spell.

A faerie came forward after hearing the story. The demon that had changed the baby was very much in love with her. She told the wizard and witch of her plan; she could have him release the spell. The wizard and witch gave up their baby in hopes for the change. They couldn't handle it in its new imp form.

Years passed as they awaited her return. One day, a knock came to their door. A raven haired girl stood at their doorstep, a letter in her hand told the faeries tale. She had, in fact, talked the demon into changing their child back. Though, she had to stay with him for all of her life. She was happy to aid the wizard and witch, telling them to be happy that their child had returned. The demon had also cast a spell upon Melosanda. She would forever be held in his world as his servant.

The Muggles version is similar, though with an Evil Faerie and spinning wheels. A beautiful princess who must be awoken by "True Loves Kiss". Some tales describe a much more horrific tale. Who knows what the true story is. Personally, the Muggle tale of Maleficent, is my favorite. It shows how different types of love can conquer even the bleakest of moments. Sometimes you just need a true friend.

Well, I think I've got to help wrangle these fairy tale creatures now. Enjoy exploring the many version of Sleeping Beauty. Until our next adventure,

-Salazia