Sam schooled his expression flawlessly with a smile etched permanently on his lips as he walked in the middle of the circle the guards had formed around him with his hands bound. His eyes took in the various expressions of sympathy, shock, disgust, and hatred. He remembered a few of the people, many were new faces, but all of them belonged in the Red Queen's court. When his gaze roamed passed those of the court he saw some of the servants and prisoners who had a chance to roam around in the castle. He caught sight of a shocked Finn and a frowning Puck. Sam discreetly shook his head when Finn made a move to walk toward him and Puck quickly grabbed him holding him still. "I always thought that I would kill myself before ever coming back here as a prisoner." An image of Rachel smiling at him stopped the negative thought. "For her…for her I came back." Unknowingly he lifted his head up causing those that had been looking at him to glance at each other confused. "She should be meeting the White Queen soon." His eyes danced with mirth causing the court to shift nervously. "This will soon end and I must aid her." He pushed his shoulders. "But first I have to get out of here. I got out of here once…I can do it again." His lips parted to show his pearl white teeth that gleamed almost feral under the candlelight as he smiled. "Down with the bloody Red Queen!" The chuckle that slipped through his teeth and slightly shook his shoulders echoed over the sound of metal footsteps and whispers filling the hearts of those who heard it with fear. Even the guards almost faltered on their footsteps.
Dustin who had been following at a distance fought back a shiver. How he wished that the Red Queen was not busy playing her game of golf so he could call for an audience with her and show her who they caught. Then Sam would be put back in his place and be reminded how little of a man he was.
"This is it." Santana said after coming to a stop in front of the castle moat and placing the hat on the ground.
Rachel climbed off and looked at the obstacle that stood before her. It was the only thing keeping her from sneaking into the castle and getting Sam out. "Those are statues, right?" She question when she took in the sight of what appeared to be multiple discolored decapitated heads floating in the body of water. A few had their mouths open as if wanting to say something, some had their faces scrunched up rin pain, but all of them had their eyes closed as if not wanting to see the very thing that would take their life away. Santana's silence only confirmed Rachel's fear. Those heads were real.
"Do you still want to do this?"
Her hands curled into fists as she pushed back the dread that was slowly building within her the more she stared at the heads. "Going back was never an option." Rachel ran as fast and hard as her small legs would let her before jumping when she reached the edge of the grass field and onto a forehead. She tried her best to ignore the cold flesh under her hands and thanked whatever higher being there was when the skin didn't sink in under her weight making her more aware that she was standing on a deceased person's face. "I can do this." She jumped onto the next head only for her foot to land in an open mouth filled with water. "Don't think about it!" She screeched mentally quickly taking out her foot and shaking it. "Don't stop." She continued to jump from head to head until she reached ground.
Not wasting any time she ran to the castle wall and caught sight of a crack big enough to squeeze through. Rachel looked through it to see a garden before turning around to look at the Santana who was standing on the other side. "The hat!"
"You got it." Santana winked at her before throwing the hat over the wall. "Good luck."
"Thank you!" Rachel gave her a small smile before going through the crack.
"Be careful Rachel." She whispered frowning for she knew that anything could happen in the Red Queen's castle.
Rachel walked over the grass taking cautious steps not knowing what to expect. It didn't matter that she was very small and if she were to duck the grass would hide her from sight. She didn't want to risk it especially when she caught sight of a woman with dirt blonde hair dressed in a crimson gown with a crown on her head, who she could only guess was the Red Queen, holding a golf club and getting ready to swing. Rachel quickly hid behind the trunk a bush just as she took a swing and felt more than saw the white ball sail passed her missing her by centimeters.
Applause and compliments echoed through the garden. The Red Queen took a moment to smile before calling it out. "Page, go fetch my ball."
"Yes your majesty." A young man said nervously before hastily rushing to go retrieve it.
Rachel cursed her luck noticing that the ball had landed behind her. "I can't get caught yet." She rushed to it trying to push it away only to hear footsteps approaching.
"It's you."
She turned around when she heard the familiar voice only to see it was the young man Sam had addressed as the rabbit. "Rory."
He looked at her worried. "What are you doing here? Why are you so small?"
"I come to rescue Sam."
"You won't be able to. No one gets out."
"I'll find away."
"Well you won't be able to save anyone if you remain that small."
"Brittany gave me something to drink that made me this small. Would you have something to counteract this?"
"Actually I just might be able to help." Rory reached into his pocket and pulled out a chocolate chip cookie.
"Do I even want to know why you have a cookie that can make you big?" Rachel teased trying to break through the tension that surrounded him.
"In case I ever starved and became desperate." He said seriously until he noticed her grin. "You're lucky I have this."
"Of course now give it here." When Rory complied she thanked him and even gave him a cheeky smile that made it hard for him not to smile back before greedily taking bites from it.
"Not too much." Rory warned too late and watched wordlessly as she dropped the cookie. A heartbeat later she began to grow and felt his face burn when her clothes ripped. He quickly turned around and walked out from behind the bush only to see the Red Queen approaching. Dread filled him as she looked over his shoulder to see a very tall woman standing there that she could almost swear was not there before.
"Who is this?" Terry asked looking at the tall woman suspiciously.
"This is Ra…"
"Ra?" She looked at him confused.
"Ra from Umbridge." Rachel quickly cut coming to Rory's rescue.
"What happened to your clothes?" Terry asked bluntly filled with curiosity.
"I out grew them." She decided to go with honesty. "I have recently hit a growth spurt. I tower over everyone in Umbridge and they make fun of me." She small frown curved on her lips. "I have come to you hoping that you would understand."
"My dear girl," Terry said kindly, "you are welcomed in my court." She could relate knowing how it felt to be unwanted. "Someone find her some clothes and use the curtains if you must." Her voice filled with authority echoed through the garden.
After being able to change into a dress Rachel was escorted by the Red Queen's guards to another room. She looked with surprise and curiosity the further she walked into the golden room only to stop a few feet from a mirror that look exactly like the one she fell through except it was slightly bigger. The Red Queen was talking with a man dressed in a red lab coat as a group of men walked out of the mirror. They appeared dazed except for one. "I have to return to my wife and children before they get worried." He said looking around confused.
"Don't worry." A woman dressed in a simple red dress walked up to him before spraying him with some of the liquid she had in an intricate glass perfume bottle she was holding. The man blinked several times as he inhaled it.
Rachel watched in shock as the man's eyes gained a dazed quality just like the other men. "The Red Queen has him along with many other men who are not from this world."Artie's words echoed through her mind. She watched frozen as the men were lead away by a few guards. "Dad…he had to go through this." It felt like someone had her heart in a vice grip and was slowly and painfully trying to crush it the more she thought about her dad. The thought of all the lost time, how he was held against his will unknowingly and how much despair she and her daddy had drowned in the first few years he went missing left her feeling cold. "Will he still remember me after all this time?" Dread coursed through her veins at the thought of her dad forgetting about her existence. "I can't think like that." She shook her head. "I'll get him back home no matter what."
"Raw, are you okay?"
Rachel looked up to see the Red Queen frowning concerned. "Of course."
"That's good to hear. I would like for the both of us to walk together toward my courtroom."
"It would be a pleasure." She forced a smile and followed the Red Queen with her head held up high.
The walk was filled with silence that was only broken by the sound of trumpets as they entered the courtroom. Terry took a seat on her throne and motioned for Rachel to sit on the small chair that was to her left. "Sit."
Not wanting to get scolded or be in the Red Queen's bad grace Rachel took a seat.
"Leave us." She motioned with her hands shooing them away. The court quickly bowed and did what they were told glad to be out of her presence. "Where are the twins? You must meet them."
Rachel looked at her confused.
"Twins!"
"How many times must I tell you that we are not related?" A familiar voice growled as two men stepped from behind pillars.
Rachel had to bite her tongue to keep from uttering Puck's and Finn's name, but there was no stopping the small smile that graced her lips at the sight of them.
Finn surprised them both by staying beside Puck instead of running toward Rachel and holding her close glad to see her safe like he wanted to. But Puck was another story, the scowl that marred his features only worsened when he looked at Rachel.
It took all she had not to try and hide from the venomous glare he was directing at her. She knew he wanted her safe, but now her reason for entering the Red Queen's castle was stronger. She could get her three boys out.
"You act as if I care." Terry said dismissively before looking at Rachel. "They are handsome, but one has a bit of a foul mouth and the other is complete doofus." She smirked at them. "I wouldn't mind bedding them."
"As if I ever let you have your way with me." Puck hissed, while Finn paled considerably.
"You deserve a spanking."
"I'd like to see you try."
"Is that a challenge?" Terry's eyes echoed with amusement.
Puck remained silent knowing that if he continued to taunt her she would most likely try to carry out her threat and he in all honesty didn't know if he could keep her from doing it. He was not willing to let his pride take a bigger blow than it already had with that fucking heart that had been imprinted on his forehead.
"I thought so." Her gaze turned to Finn. "What about you? Have you anything to say?"
Finn shook his head quickly.
"You don't say much." The lascivious smile that curved on her lips sent a chill down Finn's spine. "I wonder just how loud you can get in bed under my mercy."
Rachel had to stop herself from saying anything rude to the Red Queen when Finn seemed to sway on his feet like he might faint.
"I am only playing. I think I might feel guilty for even trying to touch you in that way, but it's a shame." Terry sighed as her eyes raked over his form one last time before waving them away. "You may leave."
Puck practically dragged Finn out the courtroom when he continued to stumble over his own feet. Rachel ached to go after them, but forced herself to remain seated. She looked to the Red Queen just in time to see a man dressed in black armor with a black cape stepped out from behind the red curtains and give a lingering kiss to her hand. For a moment Rachel wondered if perhaps they were lovers and quickly looked away to give them some privacy.
It was by chance that Dustin looked further to the left of Terry to a beautiful young woman with chocolate locks for hair and caramel brown eyes that not only caught his attention, but enticed him. He leaned toward Terry and asked, "Who is this lovely creature?"
Rachel feeling someone's gaze on her looked beside her to see the Red Queen frowning and the man in dark armor looking at her with a hint of lust.
"Ra, my new favorite."
"Does she have a name?"
"Ra."
"I believe her majesty has forgotten your name." Dustin said with a louder tone as he addressed Rachel.
"Her name is Ra you idiot!" Terry screeched.
"From Umbridge." Rachel said more shyly.
"Have you brought me any new prisoners?" Terry asked changing the subject as Dustin returned to his rightful spot.
"Yes I have." He smiled viscously. "I think you will have great pleasure with this one."
"Really?" She glanced at him amused. "Bring him in!"
The servants opened the door to reveal Sam walking with his hands and feet bound by chains that dragged over the floor. Three red guards walked behind him.
Rachel's body clenched as she forced herself not to run to him. She wanted nothing more than to hold him close and check if he had been hurt. She didn't notice the way the Red Queen sat up straighter in her chair fully aware of the broken man walking toward them.
"Well, well, well, what do we have here?" Terry didn't bother to hide the way her gaze hungrily roamed his body remembering just how well endowed the once champion was. "I thought I would never see the day that you would be standing in my courtroom again."
"If I had it my way I would never return and this castle would be burned to the ground."
"I see that you haven't changed one bit...except for your eyes." The smile that curved on her lips was cruel. "I heard from Dustin that you went insane the night you escaped, but I didn't fully believe him even after it took my servants almost a week to clean up the dead corpses and blood spilled you left on your way out."
For the first time since Sam walked into the courtroom he glanced at Rachel and met her gaze. A part of her didn't want to listen to the Red Queen's poisonous words, but Sam did nothing to prove her words false. The act of him meeting her gaze only proved how true her poisonous words were and yet she didn't feel disgust or shame toward him for she knew that if Sam were to do anything so drastic it was because they pushed him passed his breaking point.
"My biggest regret was not being able to see the way your pupils broke apart to create swirls. To see them spin for the first time." Terry stood up from her throne instantly demanding his attention. "I want to see them move and know that it is because I made them." She walked forward and stopped right in front of him. "How about we pick up from where we left off all those years ago?"
Rachel hands curled into fists as she was forced to watch the Red Queen run her hand through Sam's hair as a lover would do when separated for a long time from their significant other.
"I thought by now Dustin would be the one sharing your bed."
"You seem to forget that I respect Dustin while I hold none for you." Her hand went to his shirt and began to unbutton it.
His body shuddered when her hand slipped through the gap she made from unbuttoning his shirt and touched his skin. In that one instant he was assaulted by the memories he tried to so hard to bury. Having his wrists and ankles chained to her bed posts, being at her complete mercy as her hands touched his body, no amount of yelling, cursing or begging could stop her. The countless times the skin on his wrists and ankles cracked and bled didn't change the outcome. The worst past was the way his body betrayed him every time by getting aroused. He could do nothing when she stranded him and no matter how hard he tried to keep his hips from thrusting into her he was helpless to stop the way his body responded. The nights he spent in her bed were worse than any torture method Dustin used on him. After she was done with him she would make him walk back to dungeons naked and chained, while being escorted by her guards.
"So how about it Sam?" She smiled at him sweetly. "I can still remember the way you used to thrust inside of me."
This time Rachel couldn't stop the gasp that slipped through her lips drawing Dustin's and the Red Queen's attention.
"Would you like to see how a woman's touch can bring a man to his knees?" Terry asked looking over her shoulder and meeting Rachel's gaze as her hand traveled lower to where Sam's belt was.
Sam's body shook more violently.
"I'll even be gracious enough to share him." She unbuckled his belt.
"Stop."
"What was that?"
"Please stop." Rachel's voice cracked as she met Terry's gaze. She realized the anger burning in the Red Queen's gaze wasn't solely for Sam, but for her as well. She was trying to embarrass her for the attention Dustin had given to her moments before. Terry didn't know how cruel her actions were and just how much they were affecting Rachel by harming Sam.
"We were just getting to the good part." She unbuttoned his pants and lowered his zipper slowly.
Desperation clawed at Sam when he felt her hand about to slip into his pants. "I'll kill you." He growled. "I swear I will kill you slow and painfully."
Terry froze at his tone and took a step back only to see his hands going for her throat. The guards quickly grabbed his chains and yanked them almost causing him to fall on his knees.
"I will burn this castle down along with your fucking corpse. Everything that you ever knew and loved will become ash and the wind will blow it away leaving nothing behind. Years later all of Wonderland will forget your existence." The swirls in his eyes spun violently making his eyes appear inhumane and distorting his features completely. At that moment he didn't appear human Dustin and Terry could only think he looked monstrous, while Rachel could only see a broken man who lost his way. "It will be as if you never existed!"
"Sam!" Rachel yelled his name when he tried to make another grab for the Red Queen only for the guards to yank his chains and cause him to fall on the floor.
Sam cursed as he continued to struggle glaring the Red Queen.
"You must stop." Rachel called to him again this time his gaze sought hers and the swirls began to stop spinning, a few seconds later they were still.
"Take him to one of the bed chambers and chain him to a bed post, but release his hands. I want my pet to be able to move for the time being." Terry said regaining her composure and glaring at Sam. "I will make you pay for this."
Rachel remained silent ignoring Dustin's gaze on her as she watched Sam being dragged away. Once the doors closed Terry turned to Rachel. "I'm sorry about earlier."
"Don't—"
"I want to thank you for calming that fiend down. If there's anything you want I'll do it for you."
"It's okay. I just want to be excused. I'm feeling a bit lightheaded."
"Of course." Terry signaled for her to take her leave.
Rachel didn't waste any time in making an exit and tried to catch up with the guards that had Sam.
"Disgusting. Disgraceful." Insult after insult slipped through lips. "Foul. Loathsome. Vile." Each poisonous and sharp aimed directly at himself. "Abomination."
The sound of the door creaking open to the chamber he was being held captive in pierced through his dark rant. Sam's anger gave way to curiosity when he didn't hear the familiar sound of metal footsteps of the Red Queen's guard instead it was light and feather like. He watched as Rachel stepped further into the room and wanted to curse her. Didn't she know that the Red Queen would have her head if she or any of the guards reported seeing her coming into this chamber? Anger once again coursed through his veins, but stopped its pursuit the moment her gaze landed on him and relief shined bright in them. The smile that curved on her lips took his breath away.
How could she still grace him with such a smile when the Red Queen revealed everything he had tried so hard to remain buried? He's nothing but an echo of a man who lives only for vengeance, but seeing her standing just a few feet away made him want for something more. He wanted to reach for her, touch her, feel her warmth surround him because she's the only thing that made sense to him. She was the only one who didn't cower under his onslaught of insanity when he spirals out of control; instead she grabs hold of him with her words and patiently keeps him still until he can see a streak of sense to reign in his chaotic emotions. Sam wanted to keep her next to him.
"I finally found you."
Before he could even utter a word Rachel ran to him and wrapped her arms around him. Sam not expecting this collided with the cement wall behind him. He could feel the coldness of the wall seep through his clothes and contrast greatly with Rachel's warmth. This only proved to him that this couldn't be a figment of his imagination, that this was real. Her actions reminded him of a day so long ago when it was a girl much younger than Rachel with blond hair and hazel eyes that ran to him with a smile on her face. Her laughter could light up any room and make the day appear far brighter. He would grab the young girl with his hands and throw her into the air before catching her. He used to enjoy human contact greatly. That was until the Red Queen got a hold on him and twisted it into something that made him shudder with disgust and avoid it at all possible costs unless it was necessary. Yet here he was practically basking in such a contact that he swore away the moment he escaped the Red Queen's imprisonment. Instead of feeling disgust he ached in Rachel's warmth. He wanted her to soothe him, but he made no move to wrap his arms around her instead he swiftly turned their positions so she was the one against the wall. "Why?"
Rachel pulled back just enough to be able to meet his gaze.
She didn't pressure him to continue or get impatient in the silence that formed between them. "Why do you look at me in such a way? Why do you hug me? Why do you come to me when I can no longer offer you protection here? I'm nothing but a tool, a dog in this place!" He wanted to yell and ask all these questions, but settled on, "How can you stand to look at me after everything she did to me? …It's all true."
"It's not your fault." Rachel answered without hesitation; her heart went out for the pain that haunted his gaze. "And to answer your question, how can I not when all I can see and want to see is you?"
Her words caused his body to tremble, ache even more for her warmth. It took all he had not to press his body flushed against her. His hands on the wall had fisted and his will power to keep a certain amount of distance between them weakened as he fell on his forearms. His body now centimeters from hers was tempting him so much more. "Rachel." He uttered her name like a prayer.
Her eyes fell shut. "Sam." His name slipped through her lips as a breathless whisper when she felt him nuzzle her neck.
The smell of strawberries overwhelmed his senses and made him wonder if she tasted just as sweet as she smelled.
Rachel craned her neck to the side giving him more access as his lips ghosted over it and his warm breath sent pleasurable shivers down her back. "Please…" She begged her hands fisting his shirt.
Sam pulled away feeling a hint of pride when he saw her eyes closed and her face flushed.
Her eyes opened and met his. "Kiss me."
His very being ached for her, every cell in his body was a aware of her, the blood coursing through his veins sang for her, his lungs burned with her scent, and his heart was doing an unfamiliar tap dance that should have alarmed him, but instead excited him. Even his insanity clawed at him more viscously than ever for a taste of her. Sam wanted nothing more than to cave in to her demand and his want, but knew that a kiss wouldn't be enough for him. He wanted all of her and didn't know if he could stop himself after just one kiss, but the desire that darkened her gaze called out to his own. There was no going back. He cupped the back of her neck and gazed down at her with lust.
A heartbeat later, Rachel sighed in bliss when he kissed her, deeply, possessively and seemed to brand her with his kiss.
A knock on the door had Sam growling as he pulled away. Without warning he grabbed the blanket from the bed and threw it over Rachel and himself motioning her to remain silent. He turned around in time as a guard entered the room.
"The Red Queen has requested you to her bed chambers for tonight. You have three hours to get ready."
"Of course, we wouldn't want to disappoint the Red Queen." Sam glared at the guard as he walked back out the room.
Since arriving in Wonderland Rachel's dislike toward the Red Queen had grown to hatred after finding out that not only was she responsible for ruining many lives and being the catalyst to Sam losing his sanity, the stunt she pulled in the courtroom only cemented it.
"Rachel." Sam looked over his shoulder when Rachel pulled the blanket off of them.
"Don't go." Her hand fisted his shirt.
"I don't have a choice."
"I'll get you out of here." She looked at him determined. "I won't let her touch you." The thought of Terry touching him again not only disgusted her, but angered her. She wanted nothing more than to get her hands on the Red Queen and hurt her personally.
She had no idea just how much her words affected him. He couldn't remember the last time someone tried to protect or rescue him. "You don't have to. I'll find my own way out you just have to worry about yourself."
Rachel shook her head. "I'm not leaving without you and that's final." Her hand grasped his.
A small smirk graced his lips. "Then you better be prepared to run for your life."
"I'm ready whenever you are." Rachel smiled as she pulled him by the shirt and kissed his cheek. "Be careful."
"I should be the one telling you that."
"You don't have to worry about me."
"But I will."
"Then I will just have to be extra careful just for you." She winked giving his hand one last comfort squeeze before sneaking out the room.
"You seem to be very close to that man."
Rachel froze when she heard that masculine voice.
"What do you see in him?" Dustin asked as he stepped out from within the shadows of the hallway. "A man who has lost his sanity…what he can offer you?"
"Why do you care?" She turned around glaring at him when their gazes met.
"I just want to know more about my competition."
"Competition…" Her gaze widened in disbelief. "You're delusional."
"No I'm not." Dustin lowered his voice as he stepped within her personal space. "I just know what I want."
Rachel took a step back only for him to cover the distance. "Are you going to tell the Red Queen?"
"I should but I won't." The smirk that curved on his lips filled her with disgust. "I don't want her hurting such a pretty thing."
Bile rose in her throat when his fingertips brushed against her cheek. "I don't need your help."
"That may be the case, but I will offer it nonetheless Ra." Dustin hissed placing both his hands against the wall by each side of her head caging her in. "I like you Ra."
"Get away from me you filthy pig." Rachel caught him off guard when she violently shoved him away. She didn't give him a chance to respond or make a grab at her as she ran down the hall.
Dustin bit back curse.
"Let her go."
He looked over his shoulder to see the Red Queen's left hand man dressed in crimson armor standing there with an impassive expression as he leaned against the wall. The low lit candles barely brought out the brown in his dark hair as his light brown eyes gazed over Dustin's shoulder to the girl that had stormed away seconds ago. "Hiram." Dustin said drawing the man's attention back to him. "How long have you been standing there?" He knew by experience the man had an uncanny ability to sneak around and gather information that could end many lives and bring towns to ashes.
"Long enough." Hiram answered simply.
"Are you go—"
"No." He cut Dustin off as he pushed off the wall. "I know how unstable our Red Queen is and if she finds out about this betrayal her reign will only worsen. All I ask is that if you decide to chase after this girl then you do it more discreetly. Take her into a room before you make any move on her. The walls have ears Dustin and many wander the halls looking for gossip. Don't fall prey to the wolves."
"Why do you care so much about what happens to me?"
"I don't care about you." Hiram smirked. "I'm looking out for myself. If she were to suddenly turn against you then that would mean I would have to take your place. The little freedom I have will be taken and I really don't want to become her lapdog." Not giving Dustin a chance to respond he turned on his heel and walked down the hallway. Neither man had noticed the female figure that had witnessed Dustin's treachery.
"Send word to Sue that a wolf approaches."
"Are you sure it's a wolf?"
"Look for yourself."
Mike grabbed the monocular and looked out in the barren horizon to see that a black wolf was running toward them. There was only one wolf that possessed that raven colored fur. He quickly handed the monocular back to the guard before running down the stairs of the watch tour. Once reaching the front gate he signaled the guards to open just in time to see the wolf skid to a stop at the sight of him. "It's nice seeing you again Santana."
"Likewise." She replied with a toothy grin.
"Brittany informed us that you were going to arrive with the Chosen One." He frowned. "Where is she?"
"About that…"
"Please tell me that what you are going to tell me won't have Sue chewing my ass?"
"Sorry."
Mike sighed dejected.
"She did what!?" Sue's voice echoed through the tent.
Mike noticed the guards that accompanied him to relay the message flinched, while he simply looked at his leader exasperated. "Rachel has gone to the Red Queen's castle to break Sam out."
"When the hell did Sam get captured again!?" She screeched in outrage. "Why the hell did Santana even listen to her!?"
"Brittany sent word of Sam's capture. Didn't you read the piece of paper?"
"Piece of paper?"
"The one that Brody had someone give to you."
"It was blank…" Sue's eyes widened at her amateur mistake. She had burned it when she saw it was blank. "Fucking invisible ink."
Mike bit back smirk. "As for Santana complying with Rachel's request, the Chosen One must be willing. She made it perfectly clear to her that she will not be able to fully cooperate without Sam's help."
"Just leave it to the Chosen One to fall for the insane one!" Sue threw her hands in the air. "We are so fucking screwed. Where the hell is Santana?"
"She went to report to the White Queen?"
"Do we send reinforcements to aid the lady in her rescue mission?"
"Santana didn't say."
"I guess we will have to wait for our White Queen's order. Keep vigilant."
Mike nodded before stepping out the tent with rest of his men.
A young lady with blonde hair and hazel eyes dressed in a beautiful intricate white ball gown forced a smile as her court conversed around her. It was not that she didn't enjoy their company, but at that moment she craved more than anything to be alone and gather her thoughts. Brittany had arrived to her kingdom telling her that the Chosen One has finally arrived and that she would be coming. Their prayers had been answered the tyrannical rule of the Red Queen was coming to an end. When she caught sight of a black wolf approaching she couldn't stop her eyes from widening or the warmth that spread through her.
"Would you all excuse me for a moment?" Quinn said to her court this time gracing them with a genuine smile.
They bowed to her acknowledging her wishes before dispersing.
When she noticed they were gone she picked up her dress skirt and began running to meet the black wolf halfway. Quinn fell on to her knees gracelessly not caring that it was not Queen like. "What news do you bring Santana?" Her hands touched the raven fur affectionately, missing her dear friend and guardian very much.
"Rachel is in the Red Queen's castle."
"Is that the Chosen One's name?" She frowned.
Santana nodded. "She went to retrieve Sam."
"Sam…" She looked at her shocked. "He's alive?" Quinn felt the familiar sting of tears at the thought of her and her father's once champion.
Santana instant realized her mistake. "I wasn't supposed to say that."
"Why not?"
"It's not my story to share."
The White Queen didn't pressure her to speak respecting her friend and once champion's privacy. "I understand."
"I'm sorry for helping the Chosen One divert from her path."
"Don't." A small smile curved on her lips as she ruffled Santana's fur. "That is exactly where she should be for she will find the vorpal sword there. We finally have our champion." Without warning she hugged Santana.
Santana gladly collapsed in her arms once the adrenaline ran its course and exhaustion caught up to her.
Rachel sighed in relief when she found the garden. When she ran from Dustin she didn't know where she was going, but was grateful enough to find familiar ground. Remembering about the hat Rachel walked further into the garden looking left and right, up and down. She couldn't stop the smile from blooming when she spotted it near a bush. "Sam." She thought fondly as she picked it up and dusted it off. It was time to form a plan, but first she had to gather allies.
"We must find that girl Dustin." Terry frowned worried. "Without the Jabberwocky my sister's followers will rise up against me." She walked toward the balcony with Dustin trailing behind. "My ugly little sister. How can they adore her, but not me?"
"I can't fathom it. You are more superior in every way." He said coming to stand beside her on the balcony.
Neither heard the door opening. Rory stuck his head in slowly to see the room empty but he could hear the Red Queen and the Knave conversing. His eyes landed on the oraculum.
"I know, but she can make anyone fall in love with her." She glanced over her shoulder for a minute to see anything amiss, but when nothing was out of the norm she looked back to darkened sky as lightening flashed followed by thunder roaring through the night.
"Even the King?" Dustin glanced at the Red Queen.
Terry met his gaze for a moment before looking toward the moat filled with decapitated heads. The golden crown still adjourned her deceased husband's head. "I had to do it. He would have left me."
Rory almost tripped on his feet after hearing her reason for killing the King. "Something is wrong with her." A shudder ran down his spine just as his fingers closed around the oraculum.
"Your majesty is it not better to be feared than loved?"
Just as silent and quickly as he came he retreated and snuck through the door making sure to carefully close it not wanting bring attention.
"I'm not certain anymore." She told him sincerely as he turned to him. "Let her have her rebels. I don't need them for I have my own army and I have you." She smiled him and wrapped her arms around him.
Dustin tried not to stiffen in her arms not wanting her to know just how much he despised her touch.
"There you are." Rachel ran down the rest of the hallway when she caught sight of Finn and Puck.
Finn met her halfway and enveloped her in hug that had her off her feet and giggling as he spun her. "I'm so glad to see you are safe."
"She's not safe Finnocent." Puck's growl had Finn instantly putting Rachel back on her feet. "She would have been if she were in the White Queen's castle." He glared at Rachel. "What are you doing here? Have you even treated your wound?"
"Somewhat." She answered nervously.
"You either did or you didn't." He hissed trying to not to snap anymore than he already had. It was bad enough that Finn and him got caught then to see Sam a prisoner as well made him sick to his stomach, but seeing Rachel in the Red Queen's court had the hope that slowly been building inside him begin to wilt.
"I put a cloth over it." The moment those words slipped through her lips she regretted them. Finn went tense beside her and Puck's hands clenched into fists.
Puck had to physically stop himself from trying to shake her. "You selfish woman." Anger coursed through his veins. "What don't you understand about being Wonderland's Chosen One? You could die from that wound or be killed with the Red Queen finds out who you are. Our future is in your hands. What could possibly make you come here and gamble with all our lives…with our future?"
"I didn't intentionally come here to destroy your hopes." Rachel glared back at him. She was not one let anyone accuse her unjustly nor let them get away with it. "I came here for Sam. He promised to train me and without his help I know without a doubt that I do not stand a chance. Without his guidance Wonderland is as good as dead for he is the only I trust in this forsaken world! I'm not going to let him stay for it's my fault he got captured."
"Rach—" Finn tried to intervene, but she cut him off.
"I'm not leaving him and I'm not leaving the both of you either. When I saw you in the courtroom I knew even more so that I made the right choice coming here. Now our main priority is to find a way out and you are going to help me.
"If I choose not to?"
"I'll have Finn knock you out and carry your body while we are making our escape. Staying behind is not an option."
During her explanation Puck's anger began to dissipate and he could only admire her determination, her strength. For the first time he could see the woman that will face the Jabberwocky and can come out victorious. "So what's the plan?"
His question caught her off guard. "That's it?"
"You gave me some valid points and you have gotten this far. If you say that you need Sam and that you refuse to leave Finn and I behind it's only logical that I help you as much as I can."
"Thank you." Rachel smiled at him gratefully.
"But you have to promise that you will get the wound treated the moment you are at the White Queen's castle."
"Of course." She turned to Finn grinning. "You in?"
"Do you even have to ask?" He graced her with a cheeky smile.
Since leaving Sam's side she felt even more confident about their escape. "First thing first we have to find something to break Sam's chain."
"A sword?" Finn met Puck's gaze.
"That should work." He glanced at Rachel. "The hard part will be getting our hands on one."
"Rachel."
She glanced over her shoulder to see Rory running toward them with a scroll in his hand. "Is that what I think it is?"
"It's the oraculum." Rory replied handing it to her. "If anyone will escape it's going to be you. Give it to the White Queen."
"You're coming with us." Rachel smiled when he looked at her surprised. "You're one of us."
"Thank you." Rory sighed gratefully the thought of being free from Red Queen was glorious.
"Do you have any idea where we can get a sword?" Puck asked him.
"A sword?" He looked at each of them curious.
"We need it to break Sam's chains." Finn explained. "Preferably not from a guard, we don't want to raise suspicion."
"I know where one sword is. The vorpal sword."
Finn and Puck's eyes widened at the name.
"Is this an important sword?" Rachel asked noticing their expressions.
"It's the most important."
"It's the one you need to defeat the Jabberwocky."
Rachel met Rory's gaze. "Show me."
Rachel followed Rory into the quad toward what appeared to be a doghouse with a gated door. Puck and Finn trailed behind them.
"That smell…" Puck frowned.
Finn sniffed the hair and glared at the doghouse as Rachel approached it. "It's familiar."
Rachel peaked through the cracks and sucked in air through clenched teeth when she caught sight of the creature that slept inside. She took two steps back and bumped into Puck.
"What is it?"
"It's the Bandersnatch."
Puck cursed.
"Are you sure the sword is in there?" Finn turned to Rory glaring.
"I swear my life on it."
Finn took a deep breath as he turned to the door. "I'm going in."
"No you're not." Puck snapped. "That thing will eat you alive for taking out its eye."
He gulped nervously.
"I'll go." Rachel stepped away from Puck and closer to the door.
"Have you lost your mind?" Puck grabbed her wrist and turned her to face him. "If anyone is going in there it's going to be me."
"It's better this way Puck." She told him calmly. "I need you and Finn to be prepared for our escape. I'm not good at fighting so I will be relying on both of you and Sam."
"And if that thing decides to finish you off, what then?"
"It won't."
"How can you be sure?"
"I'm not, but I will try my best to get out of there alive."
"That's not good enough."
"I don't care." Rachel pulled her wrist from his grasp and turned to Finn who had remained silent through the exchange. "Do you still have the eye?"
"Yeah." Finn reached into his pocket and pulled it out.
Rachel grabbed it from his hand smiling and handed him the oraculum and Sam's hat in exchange. "Wish me luck."
"Sam is going to kill us." Finn said to Puck and Rory as Rachel snuck into the dog house.
"We can't just stand here." Rory stood them nervously as he looked around to see if anyone was watching them. "We will look suspicious."
"Fine." Puck sighed still not believing that he let Rachel go. "We still stay near the doorways and keep our eyes and ears open for any sign from her."
Finn and Rory nodded before they each split up.
Rachel made sure to not take her eyes off the Bandersnatch as it woke up. It glared at her and growled baring its teeth. "I have your eye." She said trying to keep her voice from trembling as she extended her hand and showed him the eye.
A lower growl rumbled from him.
Rachel threw the eye near its paw and walked around it when it became distracted. A small dose of relief coursed through her veins when its anger was no longer directed at her. She walked to the end of the dog house to see a blanket covering something. Rachel wasted no time to fall on her knees and move it to see a locked chest. She grabbed the lock and desperately pulled at it when she heard a growl from the Bandersnatch. "Please open!" She gave another desperate yank as her surroundings began to spin. The pain protruding from her wound increased viscously. Rachel fell into a sitting position against the wall feeling a dizzy spell coming over her. She pulled the cloth off her wound hoping the cool air would calm the stinging pain. "Please stop hurting." She looked at the Bandersnatch exhausted as another growl echoed. "I can't…die…here." Was her last thought before falling victim to the pain and her head fell forward limp.
Sam made sure to keep his face emotionless as the Red Queen's guard escorted him to her bed chamber. Just as they were reaching her door Sam noticed her standing with a woman from her court. She was whispering something to the Red Queen before stepping away from her quickly. He couldn't blame her when he noticed Terry's face turning a vivid red. She turned to her guards and shouted. "Send him back to the other bed chamber! I will not need him tonight!"
With that said she stormed into her bed chamber and the woman quickly left.
A foreboding feeling plagued him at these turn of events. He was glad not to be spending the night with Red Queen, but something about her violent reaction worried him. He could only hope Rachel was being careful. "Where ever you are and whatever you are doing be safe."
Rachel woke up to someone with foul breath breathing on her. Her eyes slowly opened to see the Bandersnatch staring at her only a few inches from her. A scream lodged in her throat as her head snapped up and she tried to press herself against the wall more. Her fear slowly left her when it closed its mouth and looked at her without growling. It took a step back and she saw a key on his collar. She could only look at it surprised for it stood still as if waiting for her to grab it. Rachel reached for the key slowly.
The Bandersnatch released a heavy breath that almost resembled a growl, but did nothing to stop her. Rachel smiled at it cautiously when she grasped the key and stopped herself from gasping when its tongue shot out and licked her wound. Each lick soothed the pain away and tears burned her gaze when it stepped back. She had feared it would kill, but instead it was helping her. "Thank you." Rachel had to stop herself from petting it not knowing if her action would ruin the small connection formed between them. "I guess this makes us even."
As if understanding her, the Bandersnatch nodded and let out a deep breath. Rachel trusted it not to harm her as she turned around and opened the chest. A beautiful silver word with white gems lay within. She grabbed the hilt and welcomed the sensation of cool metal on her palm. She felt her heart skip a beat as her veins coursed with excitement and a hint of something slightly warmer that seem to come from the sword. "With this I will slay the Jabberwocky." Rachel stood up and began to make her way to the exit, but stopped when reaching the doors. She looked over her shoulder to see the Bandersnatch looking at her with what appeared to be a frown as it lay on the floor. Rachel surprised the both of them when she approached it and scratched it lightly behind the ears in farewell. "Thank you and take care." She whispered to it giving it a final scratch before running out. If she had glanced over her shoulder she would have what appeared to be a grin on its lips.
Puck had been waiting for her and ran to her already checking for any added wounds. "I feared you were dead." He admitted without shame.
"I'm glad that your fear was unfound." Rachel grinned at him to reassure him that she was fine. "I got the sword." She carelessly brought it up and Puck with trained expertise took a step back barely avoiding getting cut. "Sorry."
"Careful with that." Puck warned lightheartedly.
"I will be. Where are Finn and Rory?"
"Finn is inside waiting for you." He motioned to the castle. "Rory is with Sam."
"Let's get this show on the road." Rachel strode into the castle confidently with Puck trailing behind grinning.
"Ra forced herself on me." Dustin pleaded as he lay on the steps in front of the Red Queen and punched the ground. "I told her my heart belongs to you."
Terry refused to look at him no matter how much she wanted to believe him.
"She's obsessed with me." He said desperately wanting her to believe him.
She finally turned to meet his gaze and glared only to see what she believed to be sincerity. "How dare she try to take what is mine?" Terry stood up from her throne furious. "Off with her head!"
Rachel entered the bed chamber Sam was being held captive in to see Rory trying to pick Sam's lock, but was failing. "Stand back Rory." She lifted the sword ready to strike.
"Wait Rachel." Sam said quickly once he caught sight of the sword she was using. "The vorpal sword mustn't be used for anything except to slay the Jabberwocky."
"You mean this sword is useless to help you escape?"
He nodded.
"That sucks." She frowned. "I can't believe I put my life on the line by sneaking into the Bandersnatch's home to get this sword only for it to not be able to help you."
In a blink of an eye Sam grabbed Rory roughly from the collar and pulled him near. "What does she mean?" He growled.
Before Rory could try forming an explanation Rachel intervened. "Look what I got for you." She said in a sing song voice as she placed the hat over Sam's head and wasted no time in prying his fingers off of Rory collar.
Sam knew what she was doing and watched her slightly amused as she shooed Rory out the room. "Mind explaining what you meant?"
"It's not important." She smiled at him. "Do you have any idea how we can break the chain?"
"A sword." Sam chuckled under Rachel's glare.
"You're not helping." Rachel tried to keeping glaring at him, but the way his eyes lit with genuine amusement made it very hard. For him to be in such a good mood could only mean the Red Queen had left him alone last night and for that she was grateful. It wasn't long until her own chuckle filled the air and entranced Sam. She was caught off guard when he grabbed her wrist and pulled her close until she was standing between his legs.
His emerald swirls peering into her caramel orbs. "I want you to escape from here today." His fingertips touched her cheek gently. "Don't wait for me."
Her hand grabbed his and pressed it against her cheek. "Don't say things like that." She leaned into his touch. "I'm not leaving without you."
"I'm afraid you might not have a choice."
"How so?"
"Just promise that if you have to escape don't hesitate to take it."
"Sam—"
"Promise me." He growled pulling her down. Her hair spilled over her shoulders and touched his creating a curtain and basking his world in caramel and dark chocolate.
All she could see was his emerald swirls. They weren't spinning and yet they were still hypnotizing to her and caused her heart to pound almost painfully when she saw the hint of desperation in them. "I promise." She didn't want to ever hurt him. Rachel closed her eyes and pressed her lips gently against his.
Sam's eyes widened before closing and losing himself in her gentle kiss that made his heart pound rapidly against his chest.
A series of knocks had them pulling away, but their eyes remained on each other. Rory entered the room and glanced at them nervously. "We have company."
"What?" Sam had barely uttered the question before noise from outside answered his question.
"You have to go over my dead body first!" Puck yelled.
"That can be arranged."
"Puck!" Rachel tried to run to the door only to have Sam pull her back and shove her behind him as the door slammed open.
Rory bravery tried to fight the guards that entered only to end up pinned against the wall by two of them as Dustin entered the room.
"What is all this?" Sam narrowed his eyes on him when he noticed the way Dustin kept looking at Rachel.
"I'm arresting her for unlawful seduction."
The silence that followed that statement was deafening, but Rachel felt the way Sam went tense.
"That's not true." Rachel's voice broke the silence as he approached them with his sword. "You tried to force yourself on me."
"You touched her?" Sam asked dangerously calm.
"Yeah, what are you going to do about it?" Dustin had miscalculated how long Sam's chain was and so he could do nothing when Sam lunged at him.
Sam grabbed his wrist that held the sword and pulled him near before slamming his fist against his face. He wasted no time in shoving him across the room and away from Rachel and him.
"Rachel! Run!" Rory cried out.
"I'm not leaving without you." Rachel said looking at Sam who had yet to take his eyes off of Dustin.
"Remember your promise."
She wanted to yell at him, but he had a point. If she did not keep her promise he would think of it as a betrayal. "Be safe." She whispered to him before running toward the door narrowly missing the guards.
"Seize her!" Dustin yelled trying to run after her only for Sam to get in his way.
"Run!" Puck yelled when Rachel looked at him and Finn worried as the guards pinned them to the floor.
"You have to escape you're our only hope!"
Rachel nodded and ran the hardest she ever had already remembering the route to the quad. For a moment she thought she had a chance as she reached the quad only to see a group of red guards waiting for her. "No!" She thought despairingly as she lifted the vorpal sword and tried her hardest to look intimidating. They formed a circle around her.
"You have two choices."
She almost dropped the sword when she heard the voice. It was a voice that once long ago filled her with comfort and made her feel safe, but now it held a certain coldness to it. "It can't be…"
"You can either give me the vorpal sword now and I end your life quickly without the painful wait for death and the humiliation of having others watch your head being chopped off or I take the sword by force and throw you into the dungeons where you will have to wait to be executed."
Her heart broke at his words. "You're not giving much of a choice."
"Nonsense." The guards parted to give him space. "I'm letting you choose how you want to die."
Tears burned her eyes at the sight of him. "Dad." He looked just like she remembered him with his dark brown hair, but his dark honey eyes that used be filled with liveliness and warmth now looked dull, not one single emotion.
Hiram glared. "Your tricks won't work on me." He stepped into the circle. "I never had a daughter or a family."
"How can you say that?" Her voice cracked.
"I'm saying the truth."
"You lie."
"Believe what you want." He smirked. "Which option do you choose?"
"I'm your daughter." She whispered to him as she lowered her sword. Tears streamed down her face. "Do you have any idea how long daddy and I been looking for you?"
"Stop spouting lies."
"Do you know how many years we spent mourning you?"
"If you don't choose I will choose for you."
"You're supposed to protect me!" Rachel screeched slamming her fist against his armor and ignoring the pain that exploded across her knuckles. "You're not supposed to want to kill me!" She knew that any moment he could kill her, but the situation was too much. She had arrived with hopes of bringing her boys out and meeting her dad, but nothing had gone as planned. Her dad being this cold blooded soldier was the last straw. "I want my dad back!" She punched his armor again. "Give him back to me!"
Hiram knew he could easily back hand her and grab the sword or pull her by the hair and throw her on the floor. He could easily kill her in middle of her tantrum, but his body refused to cooperate. The pain in her eyes and the tears running down cheeks bothered him. He couldn't explain why. He had never seen this girl before. "Stop." When she continued to punch he yelled. "Stop!" The moment his hands grabbed her shoulders violently, an image of a four year old with the same dark chocolate hair and caramel orbs like the woman in front flashed through his mind. The little girl ran to him and he picked her up into his arms. Her giggle echoed in his mind. In a blink of an eye the image was gone and all that remained was the crying woman in his hands. Hiram had no time to contemplate the image as a vicious growl echoed around them before the doors to the Bandersnatch's home burst into pieces when it stormed out knocking guards out the way. He turned his back on Rachel making sure to keep her behind him as he raised his sword with expertise and faced the creature.
"Don't hurt it!"
Hiram felt dread course through him when Rachel ran passed him. "No!" The creature came to a halt in front of her. Her gaze met his one last time after she climbed the Bandersnatch. The sadness in her gaze called out to him and he couldn't explain why it touched him in any way. He watched silently as she ran off with the Bandersnatch. An image a man with dark brown hair and onyx eyes smiled at him along with the little girl on his back except she appeared a little older. The man turned around and ran down the stairs the girl's laughter echoed. He shook his head to clear his mind and yet a part of him wanted to go after her, but it was not about capturing her. He wanted to see her safe.
"What the hell happened here?"
Hiram looked over his shoulder to see a furious Dustin with what appeared to be a bruise forming on left eye. "She got away."
"You were supposed to capture her!"
"I said I would help." Hiram told him calmly. "I didn't expect the Bandersnatch to aid her."
"What?" Dustin looked at the empty dog house in shock.
"Good luck explaining this to the Red Queen." He called out over his shoulder as he left the quad to clear his head.
Just as Rachel was escaping with the Bandersnatch, Santana was hiding behind a rock in her wolf form close to the border. "Take me to the White Queen!"
Santana quickly got over the surprise of seeing Rachel on the Bandersnatch and wisely didn't ask her about the others, instead nodded and led the way.
Dustin entered the courtroom out of breath. "Your majesty the girl has escaped."
Terry stopped pacing and turned to him angry. Her hand met his face violently. She looked away from him thinking that was the worse.
He really wished he didn't have to tell her everything, but knew that it was a crime to keep things hidden from her. "On the Bandersnatch."
She backhanded him furious.
"With the vorpal sword." He wanted to keep his head intact.
Terry slapped him again. "How could you let this happen!?" Her voiced through the room.
Dustin looked at her in disbelief. "This is as much your fault as it is mine." He wanted to tell her, but instead said. "I may have underestimated her, but we have her co-conspirators Mad Sam, Rory the page, Puck and Finn."
Her hands clenched into fists. "How can she have so many followers?" They weren't just any followers. Three of them were known for being the crème of the crop in battle. "She's just like my sister! I will take them from her!" "Off with their heads!" She yelled at the top of her lungs.
Mike ran through the encampment toward the front gates as ringing bells alarmed them on an enemy approaching. "What is going on?" He asked one of his men who already had his weapon drawn and in position.
"Brody reported seeing the Bandersnatch chasing Santana."
"You have got to be kidding me." Mike pointed at the top of the gate. "Make sure the archers are in position and ready to shoot if necessary."
"They are approaching!" One of the soldiers yelled from the top. "Should we shoot?"
"Hold your fire!" Brody yelled. "There's a woman riding the Bandersnatch!"
"Does she work for the Red Queen?"
"I don't think so!" Brody peered into the monocular trying to take any details. "She's carrying a silver sword."
"The vorpal sword." Sue whispered causing Mike to almost jump since he hadn't heard her approach.
"Don't shoot!" Santana yelled the closer they got to the gate. "I bring the Chosen One!"
"Open the gates!" Sue commanded over the cheers of her men.
The moment the gates open everyone went silent as the Bandersnatch growled.
"Shhh…" Rachel ruffled its fur. "It's okay they are our allies." The Bandersnatch let out a small whine, but settled down.
"It's about time you arrived." Sue gave her a once over not yet knowing what to make of her. "I thought you were sure as dead when I heard the stunt you pulled, but I guess your planned failed in the end. At least you were able to retrieve the sword and capture the Bandersnatch."
"Let's not forget the oraculum." Rachel met Sue's gaze evenly. "I have a request."
"Go on."
"I was wondering if it is possible for you to send any men to save Sam, Finn, and Puck."
"Let me get this straight you have everything you need to defeat the Jabberwocky in Frabjous Day, which is less than a week from now and you want me to spare some men from the few I already have to rescue some prisoners from the Red Queen. Might as well ask me to send them to their deaths."
"I will have everything I need to slay the Jabberwocky when I have Sam beside me again." She ignored the raised eyebrow Sue directed at the her, the smirk that curved on Mike's lips, and the various strange looks others were giving her. "In reality nothing is tying me to Wonderland and I have no obligation to save it." Rachel glared at Sue defiantly. "There's nothing here from me except for Sam." "And my dad." She pushed back the despairing thoughts that threatened to overwhelm her again at any chance if she let her guard down. "Even so I'm choosing to do it from my own free will. All I ask is for Sam to be there for me and show me how to fight. I asked only if it were possible and I would never expect for another to sacrifice themselves for Sam and the others. I know some of these soldiers have family waiting for them. I'm not that selfish or self-centered."
Sue smirked seeing the determination in the Chosen One's gaze. She knew without a doubt that it will be this girl who end the age of crimson and bring forth a new beginning. "I can't promise, but I will see what I can do." She owed her at least that.
"That's all I ask." Rachel sighed not only feeling physically exhausted, but also mentally.
Sue and Mike along with the other men parted to make space for Santana, Rachel and the Bandersnatch to walk through. "You should go now. The White Queen has been waiting your arrival."
Rachel looked at all the men nervously. They looked at her with hopeful expressions and once again it hit her just how big her role is and what is expected of her. "I can only hope I won't let them down." A small smile graced her lips hoping that they didn't notice just how nervous she felt.
"Don't be nervous." Santana whispered to Rachel as a few of the White Queen's guards led them to the courtroom.
"I don't mean to be." Rachel whispered back. "But I don't know what am I supposed to do exactly. Do I have to bow?"
The shape shifter glanced at her amused. "Don't fret over such formalities. My Queen does not care for them."
The Chosen One nodded and gulped just as the guards opened the double doors and announced their presence to the court. "Don't trip! Just breathe." She walked into the room filled with various people dressed in white gowns or suits. At the end of the room where the throne was a young lady with blonde hair and kind hazel eyes sat there. A smile blossomed on her lips beautifully and calmed Rachel's mind. Rachel could not help but to smile back. She could now understand why Sam was conflicted with meeting the White Queen again, Finn swore his allegiance to her, and Puck held affections for her.
Quinn stood from her seat and approached Rachel as she walked up the stairs presenting her the sword. "Welcome to Memoria." She greeted her warmly.
"I believe this belongs to you." Without hesitation Rachel handed her the sword.
The White Queen took it gently from her grasp and felt the power of the blade sing through her veins. The familiarity as ran her hand gently over the blade caused her to close her eyes for a moment feeling hope flood her heart. "This is it. The time is coming." She opened her eyes and smiled at Rachel gratefully. "The vorpal sword is home again." Quinn stated before turning to her left and placing it on the hands of the awaiting silver armor. "The armor is complete." She turned to face Rachel and looked up to meet her gaze. "Now all we need is a champion." She leaned in closer and whispered. "You're a little taller than I expected."
"You can blame that on Sam and Brittany." Santana said.
"Why am I not surprised?" Quinn chuckled lightly. "That can easily be fixed and we can heal your wound as well." She held her hand out to Rachel. "Come with me."
Rachel took her hand and followed. They exited the room with Santana behind them. It didn't take long for them to reach the room Quinn wanted to take them in, which happened to be the kitchen.
"It's good to see that you have arrived safely." Brittany called out from the counter.
Rachel left the White Queen's and Santana's side as she ran to the blonde woman and hugged her. "It's good to see you are safe as well."
"A little birdie told me you went on a rescue mission."
"More like a wolf." Quinn teased as she began to work on the potion.
Santana simply shrugged and took a bite out of the apple she snatched from the counter.
"As you can see it was a total fail."
"No it wasn't." Quinn said soothingly as Brittany ran her hand through Rachel's hair like mother comforting her child. "You brought back the sword."
"And the oraculum." Santana added.
Quinn looked over her shoulder at them. "You have it?"
Rachel nodded feeling guilty for forgetting to inform her of it.
"That's a plus." She winked at her. "Make sure to give it to Artie when I take you to him."
"He's here?"
"Yes and he wants to meet with you. I'll take you to him once you are returned to your normal size and change into clothes that will fit you."
"Thank you."
Quinn inclined her head at her, but remained silent.
"What did you think of Red Queen?" Brittany asked curiously.
"She's a horrible person. You can't imagine the things that go on in that place."
"Oh yes we can." Quinn said mournfully. "But it will all come to an end soon."
"I will try my best." Rachel told her determined.
"That is all I ask for." She scooped up a bit of the potion in the cooking spoon and turned to face Rachel. "Blow."
Rachel did as she was told before drinking it. The reaction was instantly. She had to grab onto to her dress as she shrunk to her normal size to keep it from falling off completely.
Brittany clapped her hands grinning. "Now we must find you a dress that will make you look stunning for you know who."
All Rachel could do was blush as all three woman looked amongst each other with a knowing look.
Quinn had led Rachel to the garden. "You will find him right ahead."
"Just flow the smoke?" She teased.
"Oh yes. I don't doubt he would be sitting in the middle of it all." Quinn replied back playfully before waving at her in farewell and then walking off.
Rachel wasted no time in walking forward. Smoke filled the ground and only thickened in the air the further in she walked. This time she was prepared for the fruity smell that came with it and let herself welcome the side effects as the tension in her body bled away in each inhale. This time she knew not to let herself be lull to sleep with the smell. "Artie." She called out seeing a figure sitting on a bench.
"You finally came." Artie greeted her with a knowing look. "I knew you would."
"You know everything."
"Not really. Free will can be a real pain." He inhaled from his hookah and exhaled as he spoke again. "Come closer."
This time Rachel didn't hesitate as she came to stand before him. She looked down at him frowning.
"I can see a spark in there." His hand grasped her chin lightly and pulled her down closer to him. "It's slowly growing, but something is keeping it from reaching its true potential. Can it be fear or perhaps pain?"
"Both." She felt her eyes burn with tears again the more he continued to gaze into her eyes as if he were looking into her soul.
"Hmmm…" He tilted his head to the side. "There's more to it though. You no longer have that lost look to you. You have purpose even though there is a little confusion. But with what?"
"I…I don't know how to proceed."
"You slay the Jabberwocky."
"There's more than just that." Rachel pulled away from him. "What about Sam, Finn and Puck? What about Rory and the others imprisoned? They will most likely be dead by the time Frabjous Day arrives!"
"You should not concern yourself with them. They are strong."
"You see the future…tell me, do they escape?"
Artie held up a finger signaling her to give him a moment as he took another puff from his hookah. He looked up and slowly blew. "I don't remember."
"You're lying."
"Not once have I heard anything about your dad." Artie met her gaze. "I take that as a sign that you met him."
The subject of her dad was still raw, but she couldn't stop drop it. Artie at least deserved an answer since he had informed her of his whereabouts. "He's not the same. He's different…a cold blooded killer." She whispered the last part. "He wanted to kill me."
"You saw how the Red Queen gathers her men, did you not?"
Rachel nodded.
"Then you already know that he is under her influence."
"I know, but it's hard not to take his words and actions to heart. I haven't seen him for eighteen years and the first thing he does is give me the chance to choose the manner in which I will die."
Artie patted the spot next to him motioning for her to take a seat beside him. "It must have been painful, but you can't let this encounter sever your ties with your dad. After eighteen years you now know he's alive and because he's alive you have a chance to take him back home with you."
Rachel took a seat beside him and remained silent for his words were slowly easing the pain her dad caused her earlier in the day.
"Can you still remember the way he made you feel as a child?"
She nodded easily being able to recall memories of him being there for her. The joy she felt when he made her laugh and would chase her around. The excitement and nervousness she felt when he showed her how to ride her bike without training wheels. The way she felt safe and secure when he lifted her in his arms knowing that he would protect her, no harm would come to her as long as he was there. The pain and tears she cried when he went missing. Her hope of ever finding him or seeing walk in through their front door lessened as days turned to weeks that became months and melted into years, but never died out and yet her love for her dad remained constant and never failed to bring tears to her eyes. "Yes." She whispered trying in vain to wipe the tears that streamed down her face. She was through with crying!
"Hold those feeling close to your heart and now that he feels the same way even though he can't remember it. Above all else you have to believe Rachel."
"Believe…" Rachel looked at the darkened sky, but was having difficulty seeing it because of all the smoke.
"Believe that you can make him remember. Believe that you can break the Red Queen's influence on him just like you have to believe that you can slay the Jabberwocky."
Rachel took his words to heart. A comfortable silence settled over them. It was then she remembered about the oraculum and handed it to him. Artie looked at it surprised for a moment before gracing her with a chuckle. "Thank you." He looked at it mystified. "I honestly forgot about this."
"We should have knocked out a guard, hid the body and taken a sword." Puck said from his cell.
"That would have been a tad bit harder considering they wear armor and where would we have found any sort of item strong enough to knock them out without making a scene." Finn sighed.
"Not to mention they travel in twos." Rory piped in.
"Damn it." Puck hissed. "This is not how I envisioned I would die. I always thought I would die in battle."
"Or in the White Queen's arms."
"You're lucky we are in separate cells Finn."
Sam sat on the floor in his cells lost in his thoughts. "This is the end..." He thought knowing that he couldn't escape. They had bound his hands and feet tightly making sure not to repeat the same mistake all those years ago. Without a weapon there was no way to break through them except for magic, but he had none. Only hybrids were born with it and those were very rare especially after the Red Queen took the crown. She had tried to capture them and so they went into hiding and cut ties with the rest of Wonderland to keep safe. Only one traveled around freely, but Sam was not in the best of terms with him. "I guess in the end I was always meant to die or rot here."
The wolves across the cell from Sam heard and felt the air shift. A new presence had arrived. Jake came to stand in front of the younger ones protectively not knowing if the new presence was a friend of foe. Sam noticed Jake's defensive stance and looked out his cell taking in every detail no matter how small trying to figure out just what could have startled the wolf. A small gust of wind had the hair on the back of his neck rise. Someone was watching him. "Show yourself." He whispered.
"In a small poof of smoke Joe appeared in front of his cell grinning. "I heard that you gave Dustin a black eye."
"Did I?" Sam looked at him curiously the animosity he had felt for him gone. He was going to die soon there was no point in wasting energy with his anger. "I didn't really notice."
"I also heard you are to be beheaded."
"Now that is correct."
"What a shame." Joe sighed stepping through the bars. "I was hoping to see you battle the Red Queen's army in Frabjous Day. It would have been so exciting to watch." He took a seat across from Sam and glanced at the hat beside him. "What a nice looking hat. Since you are going to die tomorrow, would you mind giving it to me?"
"How dare you?" Sam grabbed his hat possessively. "I would like to look my best for this formal execution." It was the last thing Rachel gave back to him and it hurt that he wouldn't be there to help or see her rise to her full glory. Never had he felt more discourage with life in general with the bad hand he had been dealt.
"But I really do love that hat."
Sam like a child that didn't want to share his favorite toy held it closer.
"I would wear it on the finest occasions." Joe met Sam's gaze the grin that had yet to vanish from his lips widened more.
"I love a morning execution, don't you?" Terry asked her court.
"Yes your majesty." They answered at the same time.
She nodded toward Dustin to begin.
Dustin signaled the guards to bring the prisoners forward. The first one in line was Mad Sam with his hat on followed by Rory who was looking at the floor sadly. Puck went after him glaring at everyone attending the execution. Finn was last, but instead looking at the floor or at the people attending he was glaring at the Red Queen with pure hatred.
"Nice bruise." Sam commented a slight smile on his lips and his eyes down casted as he passed Dustin, who had to restrain himself from reaching out and hurting him.
Nonetheless the Knave felt a sense of satisfaction as Sam walked up the stairs to where the executioner was holding an ax.
Sam wordlessly got on his knees and laid his head down on stone. "I'd like to keep my hat on." He said only when he felt the executioner about to take it off.
"Suit yourself as long as I can get at your neck."
"We're right behind you." Rory whispered his voice cracking with emotion as the executioner lifted the ax.
"Off with his head!" Terry called out eagerly.
"Oh fuck." It took everything Puck had not to look away as the executioner brought the ax down to chop Sam's head off.
If anyone had looked Sam in the eyes they would have seen they weren't the same. Instead of having swirls for pupils they were slits. His eyes resembled those of a cat. The moment the ax came down the body instantly vanished except for the hat. Everyone watched in shock as the hat floated in the air not understanding what was going on until Joe's grinning head appeared. "Good morning everyone."
"Joe." Finn smiled relieved. "You sly dog."
He winked at him before turning to look at the Red Queen eagerly. "You should more wise when choosing your enemies."
A heartbeat later the breath rushed out of her lungs when she felt a hand grab her throat. It didn't squeeze, but the warning was there.
"I hope you didn't forget about me." Sam whispered from behind her. When she tried to stand he increased the pressure forcing her to remain sitting. "I'm not surprised that no one in your court is stepping up to defend you." He smirked glancing at them to see fear in their gaze.
Dustin finally caught up with what was going on and ran into the castle to try getting to balcony as soon as possible.
"It would be so easy to kill right now, but as you know it is against the rules. The only thing saving you now is that fact that you are the White Queen's sister and she is the only who can call upon your death, but mark my words," Sam hissed against her ear his hand tightening enough to leave a mark. "The moment she gives the order I will be the one to kill you. I will be the one to make you bleed and watch the life drain from your eyes." With that he said he let go and watched amused when he saw the fear in her gaze before using one of her poles as a leverage to jump from the balcony and land on the ground safely.
"The abused and enslaved in the Red Queen's court. All of you stand up and fight! Rise up against the bloody Red Queen." Sam's voice echoed through the vast opening capturing everyone's attention. His words fueled them to make a stand. "Down with her bloody vengeance!" He yelled and this time those around him joined in.
Terry watched in shock as cheers and applause burst forth. In just moments Mad Sam was able to make a rebellion. "I will break you all!" Terry met Sam's gaze. "Release the Jubjub bird!"
Silence instantly settled over them.
"Not the fucking Jubjub bird!" Finn yell followed by the bird's loud caw had everyone running for cover.
"You're right Dustin. It is better to be feared than loved." Terry said to him as he came to stand by her side. She watched with hatred and a small dose of satisfaction whenever the Jubjub bird picked someone off the door and let them go when it was in the air letting them fall to their death.
"Rory duck!" Sam yelled when he saw the bird diving for the smaller young man.
A figure from the crowd moved forward. He jumped up as a man, but came down on the Jubjub bird as a wolf. His sharp teeth bit into the huge bird causing it to shriek and scratch at him with its feet. The wolf whined as he let go and skid across the cement whimpering.
Sam cursed as he watched Jake tried to get back up and continue to fight. "Puck help Finn gather the young ones! Rory stay with Jake!" He turned to face the Jubjub bird. "I only have one chance to get it." The Jubjub bird cawed as it dived toward him. His body tensed ready for impact at the last moment a man dressed in white armor intercepted and swiped his blade cutting the bird on the chest. The Jubjub bird cried out before returning to the air.
"I knew you were insane, but facing the Jubjub without any weapon…" Mike looked over his shoulder that him. "I really need to stop being surprised when it comes to you."
"Mike." Sam looked at him surprised. "What are you doing here?"
"Your woman made a request to Sue."
"Rachel." He had tried not to think about Rachel not knowing exactly where she was and only hoping she was safe. His only consolation was that she had not been captured. After hearing Mike's words he felt pride burn within him. Not only had she escaped and made it to the White Queen, but she also stood up to Sue by making a request.
"She made a pretty damn good argument as to why he needed you rescued all with the others." Mike turned to one of his men. "Ryder, give me your sword."
Ryder did as he was told before grabbing two of the children, while Brody assisted Jake who shifted back into his human form and was wounded. Tina wasted no time in using her sword to break through Finn's, Puck's and Rory's chains. "We are ready to go." She reported.
"Tina take the front with Rory and Finn. Ryder and Jake will take middle." He instructed before turning to Sam and Puck. "Puck take Brody's sword. You're going to help Sam and I protect the rear."
"Got it." Puck ran toward Brody.
"Seize them!" The Red Queen screeched as they began to move.
"Run!" Mike yelled just a man dressed in crimson armor came to stand at the entrance of the castle. He continued to look at him waiting for him to intercept them, but the man did not.
"Prepare the Jabberwocky for battle." She informed Dustin as Sam and the others made their escape. "We are going to pay my little sister a visit soon."
"Can I ask you a question?" Rachel asked breaking the comfortable silence between Quinn, Santana, and her.
"Go ahead." Quinn responded looking through her monocular.
"If the Red Queen is strong then so are you. Why haven't you slain the Jabberwocky or done something more drastic against her?"
"It is against my vows to harm another living creature." She frowned not for the first time resenting her vows. "I can only gather others to aid me." Trying to take her mind off of how useless she felt at times she looked through her monocular again. What she saw caused her to smile. "We have company." She handed the monocular to Rachel.
Rachel took a look and felt her heart skip a beat when she caught a glimpse of Sam followed by Puck, Finn, Rory, a handful of the White Queen's guards and a teenage boy along with two kids that she did not recognize. "They are safe Santana!" She turned to her friend smiling. "They made it out." Rachel gave her the monocular.
"My pack." Santana whispered fondly.
Sam slowed his pace when he saw the White Queen walking with Rachel toward him and the others. He had told Sue and Mike that he would remain in the encampment, but they refused saying it was about time he faced his past. If he wanted to see Rachel again he would have to face the White Queen again, but now he didn't know if he made the right choice. All the doubts fled his mind the moment he saw Rachel running to him and knew he made the right choice when her arms wrapped around him and held him close.
"You're safe." She whispered to him.
The tension left his body and relief coursed through his veins. This time he wrapped his arms around her content with simply holding her.
AN: I apologize for any grammatical errors. This part was far longer than the first one close to 5,000 words more, so I'm really hoping this makes up for the long wait. MissBreePheonix, this one is for you. I really hope you like it and again I'm really sorry for the long wait. Sam and Rachel even kiss twice instead of just once like I had originally planned. I swear those two have a mind of their own when I write their scenes. I have to admit that this one was a lot harder to write than the beginning, but I'm still hoping it came out good. The third and final part should be up sometime next week, which is supposed to be the most exciting and heartfelt part because of the battle and so I will warn you in advance that there will be character death. Anyway back to a much lighter note, please don't forget to review and tell me what you think! I love hearing from all of you. (^_^)
AN 2: I would like to thank: Jenn (*hug* I'm so glad to hear from you!), Guest (Yes I do, but it's more for my Heroes fics. I have yet to go anything for EvanBerry there.), ravenna. solo. 408 (Thank you for such an enthusiastic review. I kind of have planned what's going to happen next after Venom I just haven't gotten around to writing it.), Princesakarlita411 (Thank you! I hope the year is going well for you so far.), Lena (Thank you! *hug* I am feeling much better. I really hope you like this one), SamchelFreak44 (You are so sweet! *tackles with a hug* I couldn't help grinning at your review.), RachelBerryLover (It's really nice to hear from you again! =) How have you been?), Guest (lol I'm glad you liked it) and last but not least Keating's Disciple (There are no words to describe just how awesome you are! =D) for reviewing. You guys are amazing!