This is the story of Alice, or, as Madam Vastra called her, "little hatchling.". It begins on a warm spring day in early April, under cover of a light, ever present English rain shower.
Vastra and Jenny 'iwere walking along in an ally-way, when they heard cries for help.
"Lets go." Vastra sprang into action, running swiftly as her superior speed would allow. A young woman, with long dark hair and dark eyes, lay on her side in a mud puddle, packages strewn about.
"What happened? Are you hurt, are you in need of a Doctor?" Jenny and Vastra knelt down, helping woman to stand.
"No. Thankyou. " The woman said, smiling softly. "I did hurt my ankle, when those awful men tried to rob me-" she sighed, "my bags..."
Jenny hastened to pick them up. "Please, come back with us for tea-" Alice smiled at Jenny's offer.
"Thankyou very much, but I'm afraid I can't stay for too long. I run an orphanage just outside of town, and the girls will be wanting their supper."
"What did you say your name was?" Vastra asked softly, lifting her veil.
"Alice-" she stopped, staring at Vastra, her eyes widening. "I know you. You saved me, years ago."