Alice Belmont moved to Slatewell to live with her aunt and uncle
Alice and Gwen are attacked by Squashlings, but were saved by their teacher Father Slaine, who they learn is a powerful candle-lighter.
The next morning Elijah Slaine explains to Alice Belmont and Gwendaline Lan Levesque are witches and they were attacked by Squashlings, and insists that they be sent to The Black Wolf School.
Early in the morning Father Slaine, Alice, and Gwen slip out of Slatewell heading for The Wonder Emporium and Black Wolf Station