The Chains That Bind Us

by Nicomy43

The Knave was never banished with the Red Queen, instead he was enslaved by the Mirana to a lifetime of backbreaking labor. Alice can't seem to banish him from her thoughts, no matter what she does. What is she to do when pushed into his company?

12. Chapter 12: Troubles

Disclaimer: I do not own Alice in Wonderland in anyway.

Note: Gah, the lack of update is my bad this time. *headdesk of shame* Hope you still enjoy!

PS: 314 REVIEWS? Holy cr- *faints from excitement and lack of sleep* You guys are too kind T.T *goes to hug each and every one of her wonderful readers* Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Title: The Chains That Bind Us

Pairing: Stayne/Alice

Rating: M

Summary: The Knave was never banished with the Red Queen, instead he was enslaved by Mirana to a lifetime of backbreaking labor. Alice can't seem to banish him from her thoughts, no matter what she does. What is she to do when pushed into his company?

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Chapter 12: Troubles

The five days following were a blessed escape from Adelinde and her hair-tearing antics, but it was still a double-edged sword for Alice with her expected cramps and further imprisonment. It was near pure insanity when being trapped within those walls, especially so after memorizing each nook and cranny. At least when she attended the dinners with Stayne, it was a small break from he accursed room.

'It's not so bad though,' Alice mused whilst gazing out the window. This had become her favorite perch over the recent week with its view of the surrounding forest and distant flowered meadows. The vineyard, she had been told, was on the opposite, more hillier side of the castle along with other fields. Either way, it was a perfect place to daydream and become lost in ones thoughts. 'At least I'm not alone all the time...'

It was true, especially with Old Hag increasing her visits to the blond, even going as far as to do certain chores in the room just to give her more company. It was endearing to the younger woman to see this, feeling almost accepted in a way as she learned to knit, crotchet and other tasks beneath the older woman's guidance. Alice had always found these type of things as boring and overly posh in the past, but it was different this time when doing it with Old Hag as they exchanges stories and laughter. She was a stubborn, old goat whom would more likely give you a whack than a compliment, but she had a kind heart as Alice was soon seeing.

Along with these visits were ones from Stayne as he found time between shifts and tasks, going out his way just to see her. He revived their old habit of playing chess, their board this time being of marble versus the wooden one she had brought into his cell. Their games were casual, mostly won by him until Alice brought another game she had learned of while traveling in China. Weiqi, they had called it, a game involving white and black stones set upon a grid. After explaining its simple rules, Stayne appeared fascinated as he left and returned with the needed items. It was more than interesting to Alice as she watched him fail the first few tries, learning all the while before he conquered it just like chess. She didn't mind losing though for she simply enjoyed their games and the conversations brought with them.

This, however, was the most normal of behavior coming from him during this time, whereas other moments Alice was usually filled with confusion and surprise at his antics. There was the occurrence of when Alice awoke the second day of her cycle to find a stack of books waiting for her on the breakfast table. She had never asked for them, not even mentioned that she had gone through his first two multiple time already, but she was more than thankful at his gift. Even the more baffling were the paper and pens left for her, not to even mention the chocolates. Where he even knew what women adored during this time, she did not know for it was never brought up. Stayne seemed to purposely ignore the subject of giving her these items, simply granting her a silent nod of satisfaction at seeing her use them. Alice would give him a small smile in return then, showing him that they were to her liking. Stayne never asked for anything in return, and she was happy to leave it as such.

Most of this time Alice would have dinner alone, a single candle lighting the table as she ate. That was until towards the end of the week when the servants came in with a tablecloth, grander candles and silverware for two. Her answer soon followed with a bottle of wine in his hands as he ducked through the doorway. His cloak sweeping gracefully behind him as he took his seat.

"The conversation was too dry," Stayne simply drawled, his shoulders shrugging slightly when seeing her curious gaze. Alice simply accepted his answer, already knowing that she would not get much more out of him, but still she silently wondered if Adelinde had anything to do with it. Alice pushed away those thoughts as they began to eat, wanting to fully enjoy this time while she could. They were silent for awhile, like usual, before Stayne asked a sudden question, not looking up from his meal while doing so.

"So how has Hagatha been treating you?"

Alice's fork paused halfway to her mouth, glancing at him as he continued to eat. Her brow and lips twisted in confusion as she tried to recall who he was talking about.

"Hagatha?," she finally asked, her mouth pouting slightly. Stayne paused in his eating as well, finally looking up at her with a raised eyebrow.

"Yes, Hagatha," he answered, mildly amused before trying again. "Old Hag?"

"Oh," Alice could only express, understanding lighting upon her face. "So she really is Old Hag, and here all this time I was afraid that I was insulting her."

She finished this with a laugh, her cheeks nearly aching from the size of her grin. Stayne took a moment to listen and watch, a small smile of his own tugging at his lips.

"Yes, but to tell you the truth...," he said whilst leaning in, giving a coy look around as she followed suit. Their faces were mere inches apart as he finished in a low voice, his lips moving so slightly that it came out in a near murmur. "There are days where even I don't know which I'm using."

Alice laughed harder when hearing this, her hand shooting out to cover her mouth as his rested under his chin, his shoulders shaking in silent laughter. Hagatha was a lovable, old goat but can be truly ornery at times...

When Alice's cycle was over, she did all but beg to be allowed to explore the castle and be let out of the room. It took a few tries and a little reminder from Old Hag that women needed fresh air too before he finally conceded. Giving her a quick tour of where to find certain things and which areas were off-limits, he left her to her devices. Alice was more than pleased with having a bigger place to stretch her legs and fulfill her curiosity, despite not being allowed outside without Stayne. The things she learned and discovered were beyond endless, it seemed, as she studied the nobles and servants through their usual activities. Even just noticing small details in the many hallways would leave her fascinated and perplexed throughout the day. One of these said details were the lighter spots on the walls that she constantly found. Obviously great portraits and pictures had been up there at some point for long periods of time, but only recently taken down.

'For what purpose?,' she would mentally ask, usually staring at the spot. The only thing she had yet to see where paintings of his family, but why have those taken down? It was a mystery she was constantly asking, soon followed by what type of relationship he had with them. Both were questions she would never be able to ask, at least not without help since he did not seem keen on speaking of them.

Despite how curious Alice was on this subject, it did not keep her distracted enough from her bigger, more recent troubles. As if anything could distract her from the annoying auburn-haired woman who had taken it upon herself to harass the blond. Yes, it seems as if Adelinde had developed a new hobby of stalking Alice during her journeys through the castle. It had started discreet at first, bumping into each other once or twice in the halls, until it grew in occurrence. Soon Alice couldn't go around a corner without seeing the woman, without her hostile glare upon her. Where the woman sent chills of jealousy through Alice's being, she also sent anger and caution. Something that was proven as she began taking Alice's spots, sitting where she would her enjoy her book in a certain windowsill or a specific bench where she would think. It wasn't long before she and two ladies that seemed to be glued to her sides began to actually follow Alice. No matter where she went, they were right there behind her or taking a different path to meet her there. To say Alice was sick of it, was an understatement, but never did she allow herself to confront them in fear of causing trouble. She had no idea what laws there were for cases like she, but she would rather not risk her newly given freedom because of idiots like them. It was only when they approached her one ill-fated day that she would be forced to act...

It had stated out a normal day, having breakfast with Old Hag before until she left to roam the halls before sitting at one of her favorite benches to read whatever book was in her hands. She had been lost in a practically interesting passage when their giggles met her ears, it was grating sound that always caused her to frown. From the corner of her eye, she spotted them; Adelinde in her usual, over-the-top outfit and hairstyle followed by black-haired woman and the other with brown. Alice didn't know much of the other two ladies, not even their names since they usually sat on the other side of the dining hall. The only people Alice ever socialized with were Stayne Old Hag, a few random servants and the rare soldier. Most the nobles were too snobbish and cold towards her, despite her attempts to be pleasant to them. To be fair, they seemed like towards everyone, including themselves, and it was only these three that ever caused her trouble. Getting back to the situation on hand, the black-haired one was the more exotic looking of the two, while the brown-hair seemed the more modest. They appeared to be gossiping as they sent knowing glances her way, giggling at what ever Adelinde had stated. Alice simply rolled her eyes and returned to her book, waiting for them to finally become bored with her lack of response. However, instead of going about their way or picking a corner to pant themselves in, they began walking towards her. The conversation they shared met Alice's ears in no time as it penetrated the words she attempted to read.

"Dreadful shame, isn't it, Erin?," Adelinde asked, picking slightly at her nails as she continued. "No matter what my Ilosovic dresses her in, she will forever remain a tramp..."

"Quite right, miss," one answered through the laughter unseen by Alice as she glared at the page before her. "She might actually have potential if she would perk up some."

"Does it even know the meaning of "perk"?," the other asked smugly. As they neared Alice could see it was the black-haired one that had asked this, her eyes studying Alice with criticism. Alice's hands shook at being described as 'it', rage filling her being as she tried to suppress it. This was becoming a greater chore as they continued, each step they took forced Alice to use greater control.

"Hmm... I would hope so, Rachel," Adelinde answered, bringing a hand to rub her chin in mock thought. "She is holding a book after all, unless... she's simply doing it to appear intelligent..."

That was the final straw for Alice as she slammed the book beside her on the bench as she turned to glare upon the trio. Looking Adelinde in the eyes, she stated in an even tone,

"At least I am doing something intelligent in my time rather than something tasteless..."

She looked over auburn's form, like one would do to an enemy before battle as the other ladies' eyes widened at the hidden insult. Adelinde simply smirked, her own eyes taking in Alice as she spoke,

"Look, girls, it speaks."

She gave an empty laugh then before her mouth formed a snarl, glaring at Alice as she continued, "Now if she can only learn to keep her hands off things that do not belong to her..."

"Pardon?," Alice asked, truly confused by her statement. She stood there before the three woman as they formed a semi-circle around her, no one in the hall paid attention as the conversation continued.

"You heard me," Adelinde spat, arms crossing over her chest. "Perhaps you are more daft than you think? Well I'll clarify just for you sake then. Ilosovic, the man you've been shamelessly prowling. He is mine!"

'So that's what she's been on about,' Alice thought, lips frowning at the other woman's statement. Crossing her own arms, she stared into Adelinde's venom-green eyes as she refused to be intimidated.

"Well I hardly see how he is yours. No one can own another person...," she replied.

"And that's where you're wrong," Adelinde stated, her lips forming a cold smile as she stepped closer. "You forget the bounds of marriage..."

Alice's eyes widened, her arms slipping from their hold as sorrow entered her chest. 'They couldn't be...'

"You... You two are married?," Alice questioned, doubt and denial filling her voice.

"We're suppose to," the other answered, lips pursing together slightly. "We've been engaged since we were children..."

Relief flooded inside Alice's heart, although she couldn't explain why, but that still didn't stop the sliver of regret in her. Shaking it away, she looked upon the other woman as she stood not even a foot in front of her, her posture overly calm as she waited for Alice.

"Well that is a shame then...," Alice stated, unable to stop the next words. "For him to be tied to such a shrew like you..."

The attack came so suddenly, that Alice didn't even have a chance to blink as the other woman's hand descended upon her face. Her only warning had been the rage-crazed stare until long nails clawed at her skin, cutting their way past her right eye and to her cheek. Alice let out a scream at the sudden pain, her body clamping up in shock as she attempted to push away the other woman. Her other hand raced to meet the other's, blood meeting her fingers as she was pushed to the floor. They rolled and fought, shrill shrieks and cries flowing through the air as they tore at one another. Pure, unbridled fear entered Alice as she realized that the other was winning with rage on her side. Neither the other two ladies nor anyone else appeared willing to step in as minutes passed. That was until a single hand raised Adlinde from the blond, her kicking and screaming form being pushed to one of the awaiting guards. Alice could only clamp her hand over her eye, the blood more apparent now as she cried from the other. The burning pain was so great that she could hardly focus on Stayne's shouting and what was going on around her. The words of their conversations barely heard as she sat simply there, blackness meeting her gaze.

"Throw her in the dungeon, twenty lashes for attacking another resident," Stayne stated, rage filling each word as he began to kneel next to Alice.

"Ilosovic, why? You can't do this to me!," Adelinde gasped out, her anger fading to allow in shock while tears of denial filled her eyes. At hearing his name spoken by her, he stood before turning around so to stalk towards her. A smack was delivered to her cheek, the sound of it echoing in the halls.

"You have no right to call me by that name! Learn your place, for I am only lord and master to you," he seethed, fist clenching near his side as his chest heaved in angry pants. Giving a disgusted sniff, he straightened his posture. "Take her..."

"But.. But, sir, she is a woman," answered one soldier as they gazed down at their leader in horror. Stayne glared further at them, jaw clenching as he shouted,

"Does it look I care what gender she is! Now either do as I say or you can shackle yourself next to her on the wall!"

The guards needed no more persuasion as they headed towards the dungeons, Adelinde clutching her cheek where the Knave had hit her. She allowed herself to be dragged away without so much as a fight. When they were finally gone, Stayne knelt next to Alice again and went to touch her. His sudden hand on her back caused to jump and attempt to scoot away until he rubbed soothing circles and made hushing noises with his mouth. Alice nearly rushed into his arms when realizing it was him, her hand still clutching the right side of her face as her other arm wrapped around his neck. He took no time in picking her up so to carry her to their room, taking long and quick steps so to reach it sooner.

By the time they had arrived at their destination, Alice's sobs had quieted down but the pain had not lessened. She felt reluctant to let him go as he set her upon the table so to get the medical kit from the bathroom. When he returned, he immediately faced her and his hand went to take hers from where it covered the wound.

"Let me see, Alice," he ordered, his fingers forceful but gently so until she did as he said. Her eyes still remained closed and watering as he examined it, a warm washcloth coming now and again to wash away the blood. When the surrounding area was cleaned, he stroked a calming finger across her forehead.

"Open, Alice," Stayne demanded, needing to see the complete damage to the eye. Worry tinging his voice at the possibility that she would be unable to see from it. When she shook her had in refusal, he gripped her chin and pulled it upwards. "Open!"

Finally Alice did, both her brown eyes wincing slightly at the light. Her right one began to water again at the discomfort, but still she could see the Knave's sullen face as he peered closer, making her follow his finger and look in certain directions. The image was slightly distorted, but it would heal, he decided before bandaging the area. After many minutes of his hands upon her, Alice began to relax and become normal after the incident. While he finished putting the gauze on her wound, her feet idly kicked from the table's edge. Stayne remained silent, more than obvious that he was unhappy of what the other woman did. As he put the last touches on, Alice couldn't help but ask after looking around a bit.

"So is this how you see?"

The question made Stayne pause as he looked her in the eye, almost like a reflection with their seeing eyes being made up of his right and her left. Giving a small smile, he answered,

"Not quite, I'm afraid you're a tad short for that..."

Alice gave a tiny laugh, feeling better already with his presence nearby.

"I suppose I am," she replied, looking at him as he thumb rubbed against her cheek. He looked mystified for a moment, leaning in closer to do something before pulling away. Disposing of the garbage and dirty wash clothes in a bowl, he asked,

"Will you be alright?"

A small sliver of concern disguised as curiosity in his voice. Alice frowned at his question, suddenly feeling drained as she nodded.

"I- I think so. I just need a nap," she answered, a part of her tempted to ask him to join her. Stayne nodded in return before walking to the door, obviously not seeing her silent request as he left her. Alice simply sighed and headed to the bed, flopping on it as she quickly fell to sleep. It would be hours later when she would awake to the sound of knocking on her door, stirring sightly she then sat up to watch Old Hag and another servant enter the room. Alice recognized the second woman as the one who had given her aid when her monthly cycle had started. She was sightly taller than Alice but appeared to be the same age with black hair adorning her head.

"Alice, this is Olivia," stated Old Hag as walked towards the bed. "She requested to help me with changing your bandages."

"I just wanted to see if you were okay, miss" replied Olivia as she gave a small curtsy. Alice gave a nod of her head in return, a nervous smile on her face. "Not everyday something like this happens here."

"A fight, you mean?." Alice asked, her lips frowning in confusion. Olivia walked towards her, a bowl and washcloths in her hands along with gauze.

"Well that and a woman being sent to the dungeons because of it. The damage must have been pretty bad...," she stated, sitting next to the blond as she arranged the things she would need.

"The bitch deserved it though," Old Hag grunted, sitting on a nearby chair. It was not a moment later when a crash came outside, obviously some other servant dropping something. Old Hag gave an agitated sigh, getting up as she muttered something about all hell breaking loose anytime she took a seat. When she out of the room, Olivia began to re-clean the wound and place salve on it.

"What did she mean by Adelinde deserving it?," Alice asked, curiosity helping the words from her. Olivia waited to dip the washcloth into the bowl before answering,

"That woman has always had these types of issues. It would have turned violent sooner or later, but it's still sad that it happened to you..."

She pressed the cloth against the wound, allowing heat to help with its ache before patting it dry. Alice bit her lip as she debated on asking her next question.

"Is it true that she and Ilosovic are engaged?," she finally asked. Olivia took a greater pause at hearing this, looking Alice over slightly before answering,

"That was a very long time ago, and I'm not sure if it counts still with the young master leaving and all..."

"Is she the reason why he left?," Alice questioned, not even thinking of the words before they flew out. Olivia shook her head, lathering the salve on before dressing the area.

"Somethings about the young master should just not be told, miss," Olivia said respectively and humbly. Suddenly another crash came outside, the sound of metal tins rolling across the ground soon followed by Hagatha's shouting. There was a certain accent she gained when angry, one that was made more fascinating with her colorful choice of words. Alice and Olivia stared in the other's eyes, their mouths pulling back in suppressed laughter until it came out in giggles.

"She truly is...," Alice began, nodding to where Old Hag was outside but was unable to finish her statement.

"Something else?," Olivia supplied making Alice nod in return. The brunette gave the door a quick look, making sure the older woman was still occupied before leaning in to tell Alice something.

"She really is. Have you ever noticed anything different about her?" she whispered to the blond. "Something about her appearance that no one else has..."

At the other woman's probing, Alice began to truly thing. Her mind constantly comparing Old Hag to all those she knew in Underland. It wasn't long before she realized what it was, her face lighting up in curiosity.

"No one is that old...," Alice muttered. "In fact, I don't recall seeing anyone her age since being in the above word..."

Olivia gave an excited nod, happy that the blond realized that small detail. No one in Underland or it's surrounding lands had so much as a gray hair unless born with it. She leaned in closer, her voice becoming lower as if telling a great secret.

"Some of the servants who have been around longer than I say that she was beautiful once. So beautiful that men from all around came just to gaze upon her, most of them even asking for her hand in marriage. She always scoffed at their attempts, slinging some insult from her tongue that sent them running. That was until an unusual man came along who was called 'Tyme'. You know of him?"

Alice nodded at her question, she more than knew of Tyme from Tarrant's stories of battling him. Seeing her conformation, Olivia continued with her happily-shared story, "Well, supposedly, he came along to see what the commotion was about and fell in love. He approached her and demanded, not asked, that she become his wife. Old Hag obviously refused. He asked time and time again until he became so frustrated that he cursed her body, making it age until whatever beauty she had would be no more! And when it was all said and done, he told her that he would change her back if she finally agreed. She took a moment to look over herself, a great cackle coming from her before she cast her eyes upon him again. Smiling, she told him, "Finally.. A body that fits my personality! I thank you." With that, she walked away and Tyme has been so angry since that he has never returned to Mord. Leaving us to rot in a timeless chaos..."

Alice and Olivia had been so engrossed in the story that they nearly flew from the bed when hearing the voice of the woman they had been speaking of.

"You better not be telling tales again, Olivia," Old Hag stated from outside, obviously still cleaning whatever mess had happened out there. They two younger ladies turned to one another, their giggles returning tenfold before Olivia went to clean u her own mess. As she was doing this, Alice couldn't help but ask,

"So is it true? The story?"

Olivia gave a small shrug, casting Alice a knowing gaze as she answered, "Who knows, but anything is possible with her."

Alice nodded in return watching as the other woman began to leave. Biting her lip, her hand shout out as she halted the brunette.

"Wait! Can we... Can we do this again? As you can see I don't have many friends here...," Alice stated, one arm rubbing the other almost shyly. Olivia stopped before turning around, a smile on her face as she nodded.

"I'd love to," she answered before bidding goodbye, the sound of the closing door filling the suddenly empty room...

O~o~O~o~O

The rest of the evening went semi-normally with the exception of them having dinner once more together in the room. Stayne was slightly more quiet usual, not saying much through the meal or when they headed to bed. Alice could just sense him laying awake in the dark, lost in whatever thoughts had captured his mind. An hour or more could of passed where she simply laid there as well, feigning sleep as she felt him wrap a sudden arm around her. His hold was slightly more secure this time, protectiveness radiating from it as she allowed herself to pulled to his mighty chest. Felling his warn skin against her back was more than enough to lull her to sleep that night.

The next morning Alice awoke quite earlier than usual, the sounds of commotion from outside meeting her ears. With only her nightgown on, Alice grabbed the nearest thing to cover herself in, which happened to be a certain black bathrobe, before padding to the door. Cautiously opening the slab of wood, she peeked out to see Stayne pointing to a place near the room's entrance. It was obviously an order for the guard nearby to stay there since he marched to the wall without so much as a word. Stayne looked like he was about to leave to do his normal duties until Alice's voice stopped him.

"Stayne?," she called out. Why she did so, she was not sure but some part of her didn't want him to leave just yet. A small sliver of fear entered her with the thought of him being too far away. She tried to stomp it away as he glanced to the doorway, his eyebrow raised as he looked over her outfit. A mysterious smirk fell upon his lips as his eyes lit with amusement and one other emotion that never did her any good.

"Yes, Alice?" he drawled out , taking measured steps as he took in her form. Alice couldn't help but slightly retreat as he leaned against the door frame, her mouth suddenly growing dry. Swallowing, she gave a small answer,

"Ah.. Nothing. I just wanted to see where you were going..."

"Here and there," he muttered, his coy smirk growing. "You know... I think that robe looks better on you, much better."

To Alice she looked quite silly with its sleeves hanging over hands and slumping on her shoulders, but that appeared not to stop him as he walked further into the room. His intent becoming apparent as he gave his lips a tantalizing lick.

"Now, Stayne," she found herself warning again, backing away slightly. He only smiled at her, his hands sliding to clasp behind his back in a patient manner.

"Have I told you how much I love it when you use that tone?," he asked in a purr, obviously more determined than ever. Seeing that she would not win this battle with words alone, Alice rushed to the bathroom before locking it behind her. She panted slightly against its wood, listening as he chuckled from the other side before resting his head.

"You know, I'm going to take this door down one of these days, then you'll have no place to hide, my sweet," he said in a playful manner. Whether he was joking or serious, Alice was unsure. She was simply happy to have her lips safe from him, for this day at least...

O~o~O~o~O

Days passed and Alice's eye was healing right on track, only giving a slight tinge of pain once or twice behind the bandage. Olivia came as often as possible, usually in tow of Old Hag whenever she visited. The two had bonded instantly, their giggles heard even outside the door as they exchanged stories of their past. Olivia found the above world fascinating, especially their customs of fashion and the like. Her favorite story being, so far, the one of Hamish and the broken engagement. She nose always crinkling at the idea of him, so baffled by how sour he was. Throughout their time together, Alice learned Olivia had originally been an orphan, most likely coming from Underland before somehow making her way here. The only person who was willing to take her in was Old Hag, and soon she considered the older woman like a parent figure. Just like she, Alice found the myths and fables surrounding Mord quite interesting. There was never a dull moment in their conversations, but sadly Olivia usually had to leave her early due to some chore or another. So it came as a happy surprise to both of them the day Olivia was reassigned as Alice's personal maid.

Neither knew who had given the order, Old Hag denied that was she, saying that the kitchens needed all the help that could get. That left only one person in Alice's mind as he stayed quiet in his study. She watched Stayne curiously as he hunched over his desk, stacks of papers surrounding him as he ignored their conversation. If it was him, he wasn't going to be admitting it anytime soon.

Despite this new friendship and feeling slightly at peace, Alice refused to leave the room alone. She was more than allowed to, Stayne had told her one night after noticing her sudden habit of remaining indoors. This, however, didn't stop the feeling of panic within her anytime she took one step outside the door. Her eye might be healing nicely, but obviously a part of her was still damaged in some way. Stayne only allowed this behavior to carry on for another day before taking matters into his own hands.

Waiting until it was a slower time in the afternoon, he entered their room before giving her a nod of his head. Holding out his hand, it was a sign to walk with him which she took without commenting. They traveled through the many hallways, people passing them by with a bow until they reached one of the exits. It had been weeks since Alice had been outside, the fresh air feeling good on her skin as he guided her a distance away. They walked for several minutes until they reached a great pond, hidden amongst some trees, unlikely to be found unless you knew where to look. It was quite beautiful with the grassy hill next to it along with the overhanging fruit tree, not to even describe the abundance of brilliant flowers riddling through its growth. Alice was at a loss of words at this sudden sight, her gaze constantly glancing as he guided them beneath tree. She could only sit and stare out at the water, sunlight dancing upon its surface with the occasional breeze.

Stayne leaned against the trunk of the tree as he watched with her, both remaining silent until Alice spoke,

"It's.. beyond lovely, but why bring me here?"

Stayne kept quiet for awhile, mentally toying with his words as she waited for his answer. After another moment, he reached up amongst the branches, barely having to give effort as he picked one of its fruits. His gloved fingers toying with their new prize as he finally answered,

"I always came here as a child, I treated it like my sanctuary of sorts for when anything bad happened there," he nodded in the direction of the castle, his gloved fingers toying with their new prize as he finally answered. "No one else but me knew of this place, and because of that I always felt better in a way. Just the knowledge of its existence made me feel safe... Understand?"

The last part came out as a question to her as leaned down to meet her gaze, his hand holding the fruit out in offering. Alice stared at the purple pear, the very same type that she had left for him in his cell. After thinking for a moment, she nodded and plucked the pear from his hand. She met his eye and sent him a small smile which he returned with a usual smirk. He then grabbed a ripe fruit for himself, munching on it as he returned to look out the water. Even after giving him her nod of understanding, Alice still thought over what he said as she nibbled. Without words, Stayne had reassured her that she could feel safe within the walls of Mord, that nothing would further harm her there as he existed. Alice was left baffled on how he did this, but a greater part of her didn't care, simply enjoying the knowledge of his presence that was her sanctuary...

O~o~O~o~O

Alice was more than grateful when the wound was fully healed, happy to see from both her eyes rather than just one. It had been an interesting experience, more amusing to the Knave to see her bump into doorways because of her new depth perception. She would always huff when hearing his laugh, rubbing her nose or forehead usually as she wondered how the blasted man did it...

It was just nice to have things go back to their version of normal, being able to explore the castle without fear and with only slight caution. If it wasn't for the guards constantly watching to make sure she was safe, Alice would soon forget that she was even a prisoner. Still thoughts persisted in her mind as she wondered about her friends, their well-being and the reason for her kidnapping along with its estimated time-frame. Stayne never seemed to explain that throughout this whole time, and seemed more interested in distracting her than giving her answers. He had gone back to his usual, cocky self, not that he had really left it in the first place. However he seemed more persistent than ever to tease and seduce her, turning into another game as she evaded his attempts.

His past threat of taking the bathroom door down had been fulfilled when she was roaming one day. Alice had only noticed when she went to take her usual bath, her hand reaching to close it only to grip thin air. Looking in shock at the missing door, Alice stormed into the bedroom where the Knave was lounging on the bed. He sat up slightly, a smirk tugging on his lips as he noted her discovery before waiting patiently for her response. Alice crossed her arms and looked at him, her mouth frowning.

"Why is the door gone?," Alice asked in a firm tone. Stayne simply smiled and went to lean back again, his hands resting beneath his head. He was dressed in a simple tunic and pants between his shifts, wanting to relax before going about his duties.

"I warned you," he stated, shutting his eyes so to further add to her frustration.

"Yes, but that was weeks ago! Why only now carry it out?," she asked, hands waving in the air to show her agitation. Stayne shrugged in response before stating,

"Perhaps it's because you have something I want?"

Alice stared at him bafflement before letting out a huff as she muttered something along the lines of how insufferable he can be. Taking determined footsteps back to the bathroom, Alice attempted to push the tub closer to one the walls. The door being gone would not have been such a problem if the tub wasn't dead center in the room. Alice decided then there and there that she was going to have her bath, one way or the other. However as the minutes passed, the stubborn and heavy object had not even moved an inch while she was left panting and aching. She didn't let this deter her as she tried and tried again, failing each time as her hands slid against the porcelain. It was only after a certain attempt made her slip and crash to the floor that Alice gave in. With a sigh, Alice picked herself up and re-entered the room. Stayne was sitting up fully this time as he waited for her, his elbows resting on spread knees as he watched the doorway.

"What's your deal this time?," Alice asked as stepped closer to him slightly. He sent her another smirk, the wheels turning his head as he answered,

"You give me a kiss and I'll put the door back up..."

"How about you put the door back first then I give you a kiss," Alice bargained, not trusting Stayne fully to uphold this deal. Ilosovic looked thoughtful before giving a small shrug, getting up retrieve the door from his study. Alice watched as he put it in its proper place, anticipation filling her as she tried to appear calm. When the Knave had finished his task, he leaned upon it before giving her a coaxing finger. He made sure to block her path so the deal would have to be uphold. Letting out one more sigh, Alice made her way to him before standing in front of him. Despite her attempts, her hands shook slightly in nervousness and anxiety. Shutting her eyes, she waited for his lips only to have a laugh greet her.

"You're giving the kiss remember?," Stayne stated with a raised eyebrow. Alice frowned at this, unhappy at how difficult he was making it for her. Retreating slightly, she grabbed a random chair that could bear her weight before setting in front of him. With one cautious step, she stood upon it so to better reach his lips. Still she was much shorter than Stayne, but it was enough for her to wrap her arms around his neck, slightly pressing against him as she leaned in. His pale eye filled with mirth and calculation as he refused to aid her, simply standing there as he waited..

Her heart pounded viciously within her chest as she gently kissed his mouth, her soft lips acting almost timidly against his rougher ones. Shutting her eyes tight, she allowed her fingers to bury in his feather-soft hair, their nails slightly scraping against his scalp. Her tiny tongue darted out to lick him, simply imitating what he had done weeks before until she became more confident. Pressing harder against him, she entered his mouth before seeking out his tongue. It was only a moment later when Stayne wrapped a long arm around her waist, crushing her to his frame as he set about conquering her warmth. Alice let out a surprised moan at this, her hands tightening in his hair as he lifted her from the chair. The piece of furniture thudded against the carpet as he carried her, distracting her with his mouth until they reach the bed. He never released his hold as they laid upon it, his mouth soon moving to caress her jaw. Alice nearly allowed him to carry on as her nails traced across his broad shoulders, until realization hit. Waiting until he shifted slightly, Alice rolled out from under him before quickly removing herself from the bed.

Panting slightly, Alice gazed upon him, her inner fires blazing with passion. She was unable to form words on anything of this, neither in denial or acceptance, simply retreating to the bathroom where she gained solitude. Her fingers traced her swollen lips, her heavy breath increasing slightly as it followed the trail his mouth had taken. The sensations were becoming stronger, she noted, both in feeling and control. Doing her best to ignore them, Alice went about making her bath, not knowing the man in the other room was having the same issue. Stayne still kept his position on the bed, his own form catching taking deep breaths as it recalled the feel of her lips and fingers upon him. Just the memory of her moan alone sent his blood boiling in desire. The kiss seemed to have awakened something within him, a need that would not go away no matter what he did as he carried on through the day. His thoughts constantly racing back to their moment as he silently plotted.

Alice couldn't have guessed any of this even if she tried. By the time he had opened the door later that evening, she had all but pushed away the memory of their kiss, trying to put it off as something meaningless and empty. No matter her attempts, it still left her brooding and pensive as she perched next to the window. Her eyes took in the dipping of the sun before turning to see him enter. He stopped in the doorway for a moment, looking her over before giving a short nod.

"Let's go for a walk," he said simply, opening the door wider for her. Alice gave him a puzzling look before nodding as well, reaching for her shoes. She knew better than to question his intent, having tried countless times before during similar events only to get nowhere. Once becoming ready, she followed as he took one of the side exits, leading them outside.

They walked deep in the forest, silent for awhile as they enjoyed the simple, fresh air. With their crunching steps being a peaceful rhythm for Alice's mind, she suck into the calmness of it all. Shutting her eyes she tried to ignore the dominating force next to her so to focus on the surrounding nature. Without warning, Stayne's gloved hand graced her arm, a finger tracing its length. Gasping, she jumped away before turning accusing eyes on him. He chuckled, smirking at her reaction before telling her,

"You really must learn to relax."

"And you really must work on your sense of humor," Alice quipped, not pleased with being startled.

"Well, I think it's fine," he replied.

"If by "fine" you mean nothing to speak for, then yes. It is fine," she stated this with arms crossed, as she glanced at the trees around them. She could almost sense the pursing of his lips as he gazed at her thoughtfully.

"Are you accusing me of not being able to have fun? Because I assure you, I do know have to have fun," he said. Alice gave a huff of disbelief at this statement. Within moments his hot breath was suddenly against her neck. His next words coming out as unmistakable purr right into her ear, "I'll give you head start."

"What?," she questioned him, perplexed. Stayne smiled down at her with a grin that only a predator would wear. Suddenly the tale of Little Red Riding-Hood popped in her head, as she gave a couple of steps back. He followed her with his eye, the only sign to the mischief he was planning. Taking one, large step forward, he commanded with a throaty growl,

"Run."

Without further persuasion, she did. Like a wayward lamb, she took off in a random direction. Looking over her shoulder, she saw him missing from where he last stood. Panicked steps guided her as she weaved through thick trunks and low-hanging branches. She wasn't sure how long into the chase that she heard his stalking footsteps or concentrated breath. She wasn't even sure if it was his or just her own, but still she swore to hear the playful calling of her name on his lips as they wound through the forest. Never again would she remark of his humor, tasteless as she found it sometimes.

Stopping at one particularly large tree, Alice caught her breath. In vain, she tried to listen for his approach over the pounding of her heart. A bush to her left rustled, turning she only found herself being enveloped by arms from the right.

'A distraction,' she briefly noted as Stayne trapped her against his body, his chest pressing into her back. Leaning in, he chuckled as his breath alone tormented the flesh there.

"Did you enjoy this game as much I did?," he huskily whispered into her ear, sending chills down her spine before delivering its shell a broad lick. Feeling the sudden fire from his tongue, Alice couldn't stop the groan that escaped her. She felt the Knave chuckle again, its vibrations running through her body in the most delightful of ways. She shuddered at the feel of them, the pleasure growing as Stayne continued and work his way to her neck. Sucking and licking with the occasional bite, each stroke enticing a louder moan from her lips. It wasn't long until the name "Stayne" slipped from her tongue, silently begging without truly realizing for what. His free hand traced down her form, her nipple hardening beneath his touch before grasping hers then, his longer fingers entwining as he guided it to his belt. Alice felt the cold metal of his buckle beneath her skin, a strange contrast to her warmth until Stayne continued to drag it further down. As her fingers grazed against the hardness she found there, he gave her shoulder a playful lick before releasing a groan of his own. His hand pressed hers harder against his trapped manhood, showing Alice his growing need.

"You have no idea how long I've been waiting for this," he hissed to her in between kisses to her flesh. "To have you like this, encased in my arms as I taste and make you wither against me. To hear you moan and call out from my touch alone. I've been so wanting to since I caught you spying on me in those damn fields.."

He returned to torturing her flesh, no longer able to stay distracted from it as he allowed her take in his words. Alice tried to think despite the obvious difficulty of the task, her mind whirling at what he just said.

"You... You knew about that?," Alice gasped out between panting breaths, her hand shooting out to entangle in his dangling hair at a practically pleasurable nip. The Knave gave a hum of agreement, his nose sliding against her as he took in her scent before pulling away slightly.

"Of course. How could I not know with your constant eyes upon me and only me?," he muttered before grazing his teeth across the back of her neck, causing her to gasp again and tighten both of her hands. With one, she tugged harder at his hair while the other began moving on their own accord. "You can only imagine the will-power I had to use with you in my cell, and whilst having those dainty fingers of yours on me. It was the only thing I could think about that night. And on the second day, when you nearly ripped apart my fastens, that had been a hiss of pain, but of pleasure. Oh, how badly I wanted to give up my act right then and ravish you..."

His hand grounded harder against hers, his fingers toying with her skin as he caused her own to itch with the desire to unfasten him once more. All Alice could think of now was the burning within her body, the need to quench it by freeing his hardened manhood. The wetness between her thighs was at a near ache as it wept to be filled.

"Please," she begged before she even thought of the word as it came out in a moaned whine.

"Please what?," Stayne asked, a chuckle rumbling from his chest as mirth filled him. Oh, the Knave knew what she was asking for, probably even more than she herself knew. But he wanted to her say it, to beg him for it as her need took over. Alice was just about to, her voice nearly reaching her throat until it stopped. The desire was still there but now being fought by a new emotion, one of past conflicts. A sudden nagging rooted in her fogged mind. A voice inside her demanded what she was doing, with him nonetheless. The same man who her friends and all of Underland despised. She caught sight of his hands, the ones who effortlessly sent her in a whirlwind of pleasure and to the brink of uncontrollable desire. In her mind's eye she envisioned them covered in blood. The death of innocents coating them just like the leather that concealed them now. Closing her eyes, she saw the severed heads in Iracabeth's moat. The looks of horror and devastating defeat engraving their faces for all time. The Red Queen's doing, yes, but he more than willing brought them to their deadly fate. She stilled in his arms without his notice as he continued to stroke her body with his, his mouth on the junction between her neck and shoulder. Clenching her eyes tighter, Alice tried to stomp away the feelings of lust, fear and screeching regret as she told him,

"Please stop..."

And so he did, lifting his head so to suspend it next to hers as Alice loosened her grip. Anxiety filled her as she waited for his response, her heart returning to a racing pace as she sensed the anger brewing within him. The tension surrounding them and the slight shaking of his hand were her only clues to this as the silence in the forest became almost suffocating... Without speaking he turned her around, his grip becoming near painful as he stood to his full height before glaring down at her.

"What?," he seethed, jaw clenching in rage.

"Please stop," Alice repeated, her own eyes falling to the ground so not to meet his gaze. His free hand slithered to grip her chin tightly, forcing her to look up.

"Why?," Stayne demanded, his head following hers in every move so she could see him. Alice tried to stay brave but still her body shook as she answered,

"Because... it's not right."

"Not right?," he replied quietly, his anger growing as he snarled the following words. "Not right! Since when has the world ever been right? What is there in this Godforsaken land that could be even called so!"

His hands went to grip her arms then, shaking her slightly as he leaned down to meet her eyes. As she stared into his icy depths, Alice saw a side to Ilosovic she had never seen before. Just below the surface was a beast clawing its way through him, all of the demons he had kept at bay whilst near her. A new kind of horror pierced Alice's heart as she briefly saw what she had been blind to before, the brutal monster everyone else had been so keen to point and gawk at. But it wasn't this that kept her so still and captivated next to him, oh no. The reason for that was the desperation that dwelt there as well, the pure vulnerability he showed as he sought for something in her eyes. He acted like he was on the near-edge of madness, just about to be pushed off if he could not find whatever it was. A part of Alice told her that she held the thing that he needed, the very answer to everything he had ever questioned, but she could only find guilt within her as she came to a blank.

"Answer me!," he shouted, his lips quivering both in rage and something else. Alice's own mouth shook at the sound of it, pity causing her chest to ache as she gave her head a sorrowful shake. His hands tightened around her arms, not truly meaning to but unable to stop due to the whirlwind of his emotions.

"I- I can't...," she whispered, her eyes prickling with tears at his turmoil. Stayne grew quiet again, his mouth opening as if to tell her more before clamping shut again. With one quick shove, he pushed her away and turned his back on her. Walking back in the direction of the castle, he did not look to see if she following. Alice stared at his back, the suddenly cold night air seeping through her garments as her hands rubbed where he had held her. Not knowing her way through these woods, she trailed after him while making sure to keep a distance between them. Once they reached his room, he slammed the door shut behind her before finding sleep elsewhere in the castle. Many minutes passed and all Alice could do was stare at the door before slumping onto the bed. This woud be the first night she had ever spent alone since his kidnapping of her, and sadly, it would not be the last...

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Author's Note At The End: Again I hoped you enjoyed, and is it just me or are these chapters getting longer and longer? o.0 *looks around before ducking under her desk* Also I am so so sorry for any errors or crappiness in this chapter, running a little low on sleep and energy here. Hence why I haven't responded to your lovely comments. I will be sure to go back later after a good rest and fix whatever errors.

PS: Happy Birthday to diamond_dog6 and Lea! Hope you guys have an awesome day! :D