I have returned with an update! Enjoy, deary!

Like always, I don't own OUAT. Only my Oc's.


"If everybody minded their own business, the world would go around a great deal faster than it does."
― Lewis Caroll, Alice in Wonderland

Alice's POV

Just as the clock tic's seven, I step into the pawnshop to an awaiting Mr. Gold. Not wanting to waste any time, I walk up to the front counter and cheerfully greet the man. "Hey, Mr. Gold!"

"Hello, Miss Thorn," he replies as he moves a folder to the side. "I suppose you would like to know what you'd be doing here."

"That would be helpful."

"Well, the job I have for you is simple enough. Answer the telephone, man the cash register, and make sales. When you do, note it down in this folder. Everything out on the floor is for sale."

"Okay, what else?"

"The backroom and everything in it is off-limits. Do not enter at any point."

"Alright...?"

"Also, when I'm out collecting rent, you are to remain here at the shop."

"Anything else?"

"Be here Monday-Friday at 7:30 am. Not a minute later than that. Lunch is at noon, and closing is at 8 pm. Saturdays, we open at ten o'clock and close around five. Sundays, we're closed, but you'll need to come in tomorrow to familiarize yourself with the shop and my merchandise."

"And the rents?"

"Something you don't need to concern yourself with."

"Sounds fair to me."

The next few hours passed silently, and to busy myself, I begin questioning Gold about whether or not he had a computer to organize his merchandise and sales. He doesn't, which was surprising. The man doesn't use any electronics and prefers the old fashion way.

No wonder he has so much paperwork, I think to myself. He needs an upgrade.

Without Mr. Gold noticing, I stole his wallet and entered his information to create a google account before he disappeared into the backroom. The good thing is I brought my laptop to work, so it makes everything a lot easier. I'm right in the middle of refiling everything into the computer when Gold comes up from behind me.

"Well, well, well, it's your first day on the job, and you're already off track."

"Technically, I'm doing you a favor," I replied with a smirk. "Your stuff is outdated. Imagine if your shop burned down; what would you do?"

Instead of answering, Gold comes closer and observes my work. Everything is categorized similarly to the records he owns. I haven't touched any information concerning bank statements since I would prefer for Gold to do that himself or at least oversee the progress. I also backed everything onto a flash drive for his convenience.

"How are you doing this?"

"Well, I created a google account for you, and the rest is simple enough. I mean, I have been a shop owner in the past so this is easy."

"You made me a google account?"

"Yup," I said, popping the p. "Take a look."

I pulled the email and account into a separate window for him to view.

"How did you get my information?" Gold inquires. Silently, I pull the wallet from my pocket and hand it over to him. Gold takes it without saying a word, but the look on his face shows he doesn't agree with my actions. "How much have you done?"

"I got the sales from the last four months minus the bank statements. Only the information that is absolutely necessary like the cash flow from the register."

"Can you put what we currently have?"

"Yes," I said, looking up at him. "I'll put it under inventory."

Gold nods in agreement as he grabs a chair to watch my progress. The only times he speaks is to question certain aspects. Otherwise, we pass the morning in silence until a customer drops by.

"Ms. Thorn," Paige greets me as she dashes to the cash register. "You work here now?"

"Yeah, just started today, actually," I tell the girl with a fond smile. "Why are you here, little one?"

"Oh, right, I saw you when I was walking past the shop, and I wanted to say hi."

"That's sweet of you, and I'm glad you did."

"Say, Ms. Thorn, why did you move to Storybrooke? I heard Miss Blanchard talking about it with another teacher yesterday at school."

"Nosey, aren't we," I cocked an eyebrow at her, but the smirk on my face showcased my amusement. "Well, my friend and I thought it was time to change."

"Change what?"

"Hm, our lifestyle. We want to make a home, and this town sounds like the best place to do that."

"It is! Plus, the best part is we get to be friends!"

"That is very true! However, I'm sure your mother must be waiting for you at home."

Her face pulls into a frown, but she nods nonetheless. "Yeah, but will you be here again?"

"Yup! You can drop by after school whenever you like to visit me."

"Kay!" she beams, skipping out of the store with a smile.

I watch her go with a smile of my own, but, just like before, I can feel a feeling of deep sorrow when Paige leaves. A part of me wants to call her back; instead, I push the feeling away. I doubt her mother would like it if a stranger kept bothering her daughter.

"You're excellent with children, Miss Thorn."

"I guess..." I quietly mutter as I busy myself once again.

"Are you a mother yourself?"

"No..."

"Nephews? Nieces?"

"No."

"Younger siblings?"

"Not that I know of."

"Know of?" Gold paused, confused by my comment. "Ah, you're referring to Miss Swan's plight."

"Nope. Not at all."

"Then, what do you mean by that peculiar statement?"

"Nosey, aren't we," I ask, reusing my earlier statement. "Why so curious, Gold?"

"Well, you'll be working with me for the foreseeable future, and I'm curious about your lifestyle."

"My lifestyle?"

"Well, to be frank, you are rather odd."

"How so?" I asked, halting my movements. "Not that I mind."

"Well, you are rather intuitive yet reluctant in some areas. A contradicting figure to say the least."

"Ah, well, I guess I am a bit hesitant, but I rather be safe than sorry. In my opinion, those who rush forward are rather foolish."

"In that, I do agree."

I smile at the man as we continue our work. Even as the day passed and customers came to brows our wears, I stuck close to the man. Oddly enough, I felt calm near Mr. Gold, as if I was beside an old friend. The feeling was old and nostalgic, something I couldn't describe. Still, I fed into it, not that it seemed to bother the man. If anything, he seemed to enjoy the companionship.

The next day, as we went through the many files dedicated to the shop that Gold allows me to view, we surprisingly had a guest. A beautiful woman with short black hair and an air of regality. Her face is stone cold, but her stance means business.

"Hello," I greet the older woman before Gold can speak. "I regret to inform you that the shop is closed today. You'll have to wait until tomorrow if you wish to purchase something."

"I'm not here to shop," the woman glares at us. "I'm here to speak to Gold."

"Well, Mr. Gold is busy at the moment. He doesn't have time to speak to you."

"Make time," she commands, lifting her chin up in defiance. I'm about to speak again when the man beside me places a hand on my shoulder.

"It's alright, Miss Thorn. The Mayor and I are due for a meeting."

"The-" I stop short as I look back to the older woman who smirks at me in victory. Still, that doesn't stop my mouth from moving of its own accord. "So you're the Evil Queen."

"Excuse me?"

"Yeah, Henry told me about you."

Pursing her lips in annoyance, the Mayor looks over to Gold. "Rein in your help, Gold."

Gold chuckles, but from the corner of my eye, I note the grip around his cane tightens. "Miss Thorn is simply following my shop's policy. Now, it seems, I must enforce it."

"Excuse me?"

"My shop is closed on Sundays. If you wish to buy something, you'll have to wait."

"I need nothing you own. There are matters in which we need to discuss."

"If you're not here to shop, you have no reason to be here. I have nothing I wish to speak about, and as you can see, I'm busy."

"Fine," Glaring at us, Regina storms from the shop, slamming the door behind her.

"Geez, is she always like that?" I asked the man as I transcribed the last file he gave me.

"Yes, an eternal dilemma when dealing with her."

"Then I salute your patience. By the way, you were just about to tell me something when Regina popped in."

"Yes, well, I'm renovating a building I own, and the idiots I hired to fix the place left a few packages there. I have to head over to handle it and a few other things. The owner of the factory doesn't have the equipment to move it, so I'll be gone for the afternoon to handle the issue."

"Do you need help?"

"Not unless you can carry crates well over 500lbs."

"Okay," I said, shutting down my laptop. "Let me put everything away first."

"Wait," Gold muttered in shock. "Do you mean you can do that?"

"Yes, I can?" I state matter of factly, leaving no room for questions. "Let's go."

Thirty minutes later, we're inside a facility Mr. Gold informed me about at the shop. The crates contained tiles and other necessary objects to fix up the place, but the workers left the boxes in the way of the machinery and other equipment the factory needs to access.

"Is that it?" I asked, looking over to the group of scrawny men.

"Yes," The owner replies, "I need them on the other side of the floor. Without the right equipment, I have no way of moving it without damaging the contents."

Shrugging, I slipped off my jacket, handing it to Gold before walking to the boxes. The crates are large but other than the size, it's not a problem.

Squatting down, I grab the crate with ease and turn to face the men. "Where to?"

Starring at me, flabbergasted, the owner points me in the right direction. The next few minutes are spent like this until everything is fixed. The owner even has me move some machinery to make space for new products. In the meantime, Gold handles whatever is needed. By the time I finish, Gold walks over to me, looking pleased.

"Well, that wrapped up sooner than I expected."

"So what now?"

"A late lunch, perhaps," he grins, handing me my jacket as well as his arm. I take both as we walk to his vehicle together. "Then, we'll finish up some things in the shop before ending the day."

"Sounds good to me," I replied as we reached the car. "You can drop me off at Granny's if you want."

"Actually, I was thinking we can dine together. We can order delivery from a nearby restaurant."

"Really?"

"I don't see why not."

"Alright," I grin, an old and forgotten form of happiness blooming in my chest. "Sounds like a plan."

London, England: 19th century

3rd POV

Sitting in the corner of the room, Ailish waited as the approaching footsteps stopped in front of her door. After a moment, a middle-aged doctor entered with two orderlies behind him. The ten-year-old stared blankly at the three as they closed the door behind them.

For two horrific years, they've held Ailish captive in what this world terms an insane asylum. Upon her return to London from Wonderland, Ailish searched for her brother, Baelfire. She soon met the Darlings, and the brothers informed her that Baelfire returned to the land with magic. Meaning she was alone in this new world. Leaving the Darlings soon after, Ailish was met with misfortune. The authorities caught her and placed her in an orphanage for a short time before a family adopted her. She kept her first name but was given a surname. Kingston it was. It didn't stick for long since they shoved her off to the asylum for spewing outlandish tales. Now, she spends her days as an empty shell, waiting for something to happen.

Today, like many others, the doctor came to "treat" her. She could do nothing but stare at him within her straightjacket. To the head psychiatrist, he assumed most of what he was saying is going over her head. The child stared blankly at him as if he wasn't even in the room with her. Like many of his patients, she had the thousand-yard stare. It's been like that for Ailish for at least a year and a half. Sadly, her case is severe compared to many of the others, so there is little left for him to do. He's exhausted all other treatments such as ice baths, electric shock therapy, purging, bloodletting, straitjackets, and injections. The only other option is a lobotomy, which is why he's here today. Everything is ready for the procedure.

"Alright, let's go, Miss Ailish," he spoke softly, even if he knew she was no longer coherent enough to understand his speech. "It's time."

One of the orderlies opened the door to bring in the gurner while the other grabbed the child. She hasn't moved on her own in months, it's common for one of the men to move her about.

As the orderly places Ailish on the gurney, the doctor approaches her to inject the medication to help the child drift to unconsciousness. The two men step back to give the doctor space as he works. As the doctor is about to pierce her skin, the light in Ailish's eyes returns. Quickly, she frees herself from her straight jacket and kicks the doctor with as much force as a 12-year-old of her size can muster. Ailish rolls off the gurney before the other two men can grab her; and rushes out the door, slamming it closed before locking it.

When the burly man was hoisting her onto the gurney a moment ago, Ailish was busy stealing the spare key from the guard through the hole in her straight jacket. Plus, since there is no way to open the door from within, there's no need to worry about the occupants inside her cell. Hurridly, she dodges as many workers on her way to freedom.

Ailish nearly manages to make it to the front gates of the facility when one of the other guards tackles her to the ground, but Ailish is ready for such an altercation. Earlier, she had stolen the needle with medication from the doctor. Stabbing the guard in the throat, she shoots the drug into his body. Within seconds he's out, and Ailish is scrambling over the fence towards freedom.

Needless to say, a child can't outrun adults, so in a last-ditch effort to escape the authorities when they catch up to her, Ailish jumps into a large body of water. Holding her breath, she waits for the men to leave, but the current overwhelms her, causing the child to panic. Struggling to live, she fights her way to the surface, reaching for land.

"Are you alright," a woman's voice inquires, causing the twelve-year-old to freeze in her tracks. Not daring to look up, she simply awaits her fate, knowing her chance at freedom will finally disappear. "I saw the whole ordeal. I'm glad you managed to escape, little one."

Now confused, Ailish looks at the woman in front of her in bewilderment. Only then does she notice the new scenery in front of her. The land that is laid out before her is vast with life. Greenery is everywhere the eye can see. No smoke or cobblestone roads, but in their place, animals and wildflowers.

The woman who spoke to Ailish is dressed, differently than the standard 19th-century English woman. The gorgeous woman wears a long-sleeve dress tight to her upper half while flowing on the latter portion. However, the dress does not cover her shoulders but gently flows down her arms in open sleeves. She's even bejeweled in glittering stones matching the circlet tiara she bears on her head. Ailish doubts she has ever seen someone as beautiful as the woman before her.

"This isn't London, is it?" Ailish hoarsely inquires. This is the first thing she's spoken in months. "Where am I?"

"This is Avalon," the beauty answers, helping the child stand. "I am Morgan le Fay. Welcome to my home."

It isn't until a few hours later that Ailish chooses to speak again. In the meantime, Morgan made sure to feed the child and get Ailish well adjusted to the castle she lives within. Once the child, although still apprehensive, decides to speak, Morgan continued per her usual routine.

"Avalon, huh?"

"Yes," Morgan smirks at the child as they walk the halls. Servants look at the child in confusion, but no one speaks of it to Morgan.

"I've heard of it, but I thought it was impossible to reach."

"For most, it is."

"Then how did I arrive? I'm not a wizard or witch. I have no affinity for magic, and England has none to speak of, quite frankly. Plus, jumping through dimensions is nearly impossible."

"That is true, but as you said, it's nearly impossible."

"Then..."

Unexpectedly, the child halts, and so does the enchantress. Only a moment passed as understanding passed through Ailish's eyes. "You said you saw me escape. The current... that was you!"

"Yes, it was," Morgan smiled at the child, amused by how quick she is to figure things out. Walking forward, she glances over her shoulder at the shocked child, directing a smirk to Ailish. "Coming?"

A wild smile spreads across the younger female's face as she races forth to catch up to the enchantress.

Storybrooke: Present day

As Monday finally comes to an end, Gold and I begin the task of closing up shop when a sudden rumble splits the air.

"What the hell was that?!" I asked in a panic. "It was too quick to be an Earthquake."

"I don't know," Gold off-handly replies as he walks to me. "The good thing is we're safe."

"Right," I breathed out. "Em should be at the sheriff's station, so she should be good."

"Oh, why is she there?"

"Huh? Right, I guess it does sound odd. Well, Graham offered her a job as a deputy."

"Good to hear," Gold smiles. It's one of those smiles that leads me to believe Gold knows more than he's letting on, but I don't bother to ask. "So, have you spoken to Mr. Hecate as of yet."

"Considering I've been cooped up here with you, no. Still, I should do that soon."

"Yes, I believe he will help you a great deal. In the meantime, get home safely. I'll see you tomorrow morning."

"Right, goodbye, Mr. Gold."

Waving me goodbye, Gold vanishes into the back room. I leave the shop to arrive at the apartment moments later. I don't see Emma until close to midnight as she drags herself quietly into the room.

"Tired?"

Gasping, Emma turns the light on to notice me staring at her with a grin. "Geeze, why are you up?"

"I was worried. You weren't here, and the rumble from earlier scared me."

"You and me both," she replies, belly-flopping onto the bed. "The mines near the town collapsed."

"There are mines in Storybrooke?"

"Apparently, but it's going to get demolished."

"That's good, at least."

"Not in Henery's mind."

"Why is that?"

"Fairtale stuff," Em mutters. "Anyway, how'd work go?"

"Great!"

"Really? I still find it hard to believe your friends with Gold."

"You're friends with Hopper," I point out to the blonde with a disgusted frown.

"Yeah, you still haven't explained how he's a bad person."

"I... I don't know. It's just- well, he's a psychiatrist."

"And?"

I shrug, believing that was answer enough. Emma accepts it as she rises to change into her pajamas.

"Still, Em, don't you think you should worry about Henry?"

"What for?"

"His imagination."

"Oh, come on, Al. He's a kid."

"Yeah, you've said all of this before, but I still don't think it's a good idea to feed into his imagination."

"C'mon, haven't you ever imagined the impossible to escape reality?"

"Nope, I read books. That's enough to wrap my mind in tearful goodbyes."

"Still can't get over Finnick Odair?"

"Dude, he never met his son!"

Emma laughs at me while I hide my concern behind my smile. Maybe Emma is right, and the kid needs his imagination, but I can't help how odd it feels to hear Henry's fairytale theory. Instead of voicing my opinion again, I leave the topic alone. Emma's tired, and she doesn't need me hounding her on parenting questions. Hell, she's still figuring out this mom thing as it is.

Still, the next day at Gold's shop, the topic wouldn't leave my mind. It must have caught Gold's attention at some point, but he never pushed me to speak. Nevertheless, I would feel better if I at least asked for his thoughts on the subject.

"Mr. Gold, do you mind if I ask you something?"

"Not at all, my dear. What can I do for you?"

"Well, if you notice someone living far too much in their imagination, would you think that's healthy?"

"Ah, you mean Henry's situation," Gold replied automatically. Noting the shocked countenance on my face, he continued speaking. "Although not everyone knows about that situation, I happen to have eyes and ears around town who inform me about the Mayor's dealings."

"Including her son's private therapy sessions?"

Shrugging the question off, Gold chose to focus on the prior inquiry. "Miss Thorn, it may seem strange, but at times the mind of a child is our only hope. You see, when we face adversity, it's our imagination that saves us from despair. And who has a greater imagination than a child?"

"I don't really understand?"

"You will, one day," Gold smiles as my phone starts ringing.

"One second," I said, excusing myself. Looking at the caller id, I see Emma's profile pop up. "Hey, Em. Whats-"

I stopped speaking as the panicked voice of my best friend cuts across mine. After a short exchange, she hangs up, and my fears from earlier rise once again.

"Miss Thorn?"

"I need to leave," I mutter, grabbing my keys in a hurry. "Henry's in danger."

"What?"

"He's going to find proof about his fairytale theory. I knew it was a bad idea to let him ponder on it for too long."

"Where are you going?"

"The mines."

"No!" Gold resounds, moving in front of the door. "It's dangerous, Miss Thorn. Leave it to the authorities."

"A child is in danger, and you want me to stay here?"

"That's not what I meant, but I'm trying to look out for you."

"Well, you can't stop me."

I push past him, but a firm grasp causes me to halt. I'm about to shove Mr. Gold off of me when his worried expression stops me.

"At least... at least allow me to come with you."

"Why?"

"Is this really the time for questions?"

"Yeah, your right!" I answered, grabbing him by the arm and pulling him forward. "Hope you can hang on, though."

A worried expression is the only answer I receive as I pull the man to my motorcycle. After I secure the two of us, I race towards the mines. Gold uses his staff to hold onto me as I propel us forward. Not too long afterward, we arrive at the mines just as Emma and Archie. Pongo races from Emma's car, and we rush after him.

As we search for the missing child, Archie retrieves something from Pongo's mouth. Looking towards us from the mouth of the cave, he begins to mutter. "Candy bar... He had these with him."

Suddenly, a rumble erupts from down below. All too quickly, the rocks rush down to meet Archie. In a moment of complete desperation, I lunge forward, knocking the two of us inside. When the dust settles, it's clear to anyone with eyes that we were stuck.

"Darn it," I moaned. Standing to my feet, I unleash my keys that luckily have a flashlight. "At least we have light."

"That's good," Dr. Hopper grinned awkwardly at me, but I ignored him as I commenced my search for Henry.

Having no other choice, the psychiatrist follows me through the tunnels. At first, it was silent between us, but the answers running through my head wouldn't remain quiet. "Emma said something about you causing this disaster."

"I-"

Hopper failed to come up with a reply, and I was too disgusted to give him an out. "Imagination, you said. I thought from the beginning it was a bad idea to feed into it, but something must have changed in the last few hours to cause you to sway your opinion. So, what did it for you?"

"His mother..."

"You're afraid of Regina?"

"Yes."

"Have you read the articles concerning vaccines?"

Being perplexed by my abrupt change in topic, Hopper didn't dare speak up. Instead, he shakes his head as an answer.

"A Dr. Andrew Wakefield was paid a large sum of money to lie about several vaccines being linked to autism. In the end, he was discredited, but the damage was done. The decline in vaccines began, and outbreaks soon spread. His passion for money overcame his medical and moral standpoint. If he hadn't done such a thing, so many wouldn't be suffering."

"Alice?"

"What I'm trying to say is this. As a psychiatrist, you're supposed to help those deemed lost, but you've chosen to save yourself. If Henry gets injured or dies, it's on you."

The two of us remained silent afterward, with Hopper remaining somewhat behind me. I'm unsure how much time passed when we finally came across Henry.

"Henry," I gasped, running to the boy with Hopper not too far behind me. "Henry!" I envelop the child in a hug, holding him close to me. After a moment, I let go to look over him for cuts or bruises. "Are you okay?!"

"Yeah, I'm fine."

"Good, we were so worried about you."

"Don't worry, I'm just glad you guys came to help."

"What?"

Hopper steps up, looking down at Henry earnestly. "No, Henry, listen. We got to get out of here, okay?"

"So, you're still against me?" Henry retorts angrily. "Both of you?"

"Henry, there's no time for that. Come on, Henry!"

"You don't believe me?" said Henry in disbelief. Slowly, I notice him backing away from Archie. "You'll see. You'll see!"

Before Henry can get two steps away from me, I yank him towards me. "Enough!" My voice echoes through the tunnels of the mines. "Do you know what's going on? We're trapped! The opening to the mines caved in, Henry. And unless we find a way out, no amount of candy bars will keep us alive. Now you've caused enough trouble for one day; so do me a favor, and stay quiet. Okay?"

"Okay," Henry replies in a small voice. Immediately, I grab him the hand, forcing him and Hopper to keep up with me as I search for a way out.

On the other side of the mines

3rd POV

"Stop! Stop!" Regina calls out in fear. "You're making it worse!"

Stomping over, Emma yells at the woman who's to blame for the entire ordeal. "I am trying to save him! You know why he went down there in the first place, don't you? Because you made him feel like he had something to prove. "

"And why does he think he has anything to prove? Who's encouraging him?"

"Do not put this on me."

"Oh, please! Lecture me until his oxygen runs out!"

Gold, growing more anxious by the minute, increased in anger at the feud between the two women. Walking to them, everyone moved out of his way until he stood beside the women. "ENOUGH," he bellowed, shaking in fury. "Can you two put your petty aggression to the side for one moment and think about the ones who need our help?!"

Stunned by his outburst, both females remained silent. Emma knew that time wasn't on their side and spoke first. "He's right, Regina. Arguing won't save them."

"No, it won't."

"Then what do you want me to do?"

Regina pondered on the choices, but nothing clear came to mind. "We need something big. Something to break through the ground."

"Well, deary, we don't have any drills nearby," Gold pointed out. "So that isn't an option unless you want to wait another three hours for one to show up."

"But we have explosives," Marco spoke up, walking to the group. "Enough to clear an opening."

"Is that safe?"

"We don't have any other choice," Emma grits out. Even the blonde hates the idea, but if they don't do this, then what can they do?

Inside the mines

Alice's POV

As our group trudged through the tunnels, Archie abruptly came to a stop. Looking over at him inquisitively, I catch the smile forming on the man's face. "Archie?"

"Do you hear that?"

Staying quiet to listen to the tunnels, I can't detect anything unusual. "No."

"It's a dog," Henry answers in puzzlement. "IT'S PONGO!"

"Follow the noise!"

Together the three of us made a mad dash toward the barking dog. The closer we got, the louder it became, alongside the hope erupting in our hearts.

As we make a final turn, we find ourselves in front of a cage-like contraption. "What's this?"

Walking forward, Hopper smiles in delight. "An elevator. It's to get the mine workers in and out. It goes all the way to the top. That's why we could hear Pongo."

Henry steps up next, inspecting the old machine. "Will it work?"

"Let's give it a shot."

All three of us climb aboard, but it becomes apparent that Dr. Hopper couldn't move the wheel to bring us up. "Allow me, Doctor."

Moving him to the side, I step to the wheel and turn it slowly. I'm scared if I move it too quickly, it will break, and all hope of leaving will disappear.

After five excruciating minutes of silence, I notice a light in the distance. "Guy's, I-"

With a loud bang, our world fell from beneath our feet. The elevator came to a screeching stop moments later, leaving us in a dazed state.

"Henry?"

Crawling to the boy, I look over his body for injuries. Thankfully, nothing but scratches appear. Archie protected him from the worst of it.

"Henry?"

"Alice, I'm sorry," he said tearfully. "I'm-"

"Hey, hey, it's okay. The good thing is none of us are hurt. Right, Archie?"

"Right," Hopper agreed. "You're being so brave right now, Henry."

"He's right, so don't worry."

I allow the boy to nestle into my arms as we wait for a miracle to appear. Archie can see Henry still feels guilty about the entire incident and goes to comfort him while Henry does the same for the older man. In return, we actually come down to two conclusions. The reason Archie allowed his moral compass to be swayed by Regina and why Henry can't let go of his fairytales. I remain silent even as the elevator drops two more times. In the end, my voice isn't needed.

He's not half bad, I thought to myself. I wish my doctor had been like him.

Unbeknownst to the other two occupants in the elevator, I begin to silently panic. Racing through my memories, I can't ever recall seeing a psychiatrist. Yes, I dislike them, but I've never had a reason for it.

Did I see one before? Is that a part of my past?

Before I can dwell on my thoughts for too long, I hear a sound from above. "What's that?"

"What?" asked Archie as we rose to our feet. "Do you hear something?"

"Yeah, and I see... Emma!"

"Al, you guy's okay?"

"Yes, you gorgeous angle!"

As Emma radios for the crew upstairs to halt the machine lowering her down, I turn to Henry. "You first, buddy."

I hoist the child up to Emma just as the elevator starts to shake. "You got him?"

"Alice?!"

"It's okay!"

The two call for us, but their screams drown at the rumbling around us. Quickly, Hopper uses his umbrella to hook himself onto Emma. It works, and for a brief moment, we're safe, but the sweat from our palms makes it impossible to hold on. Seconds later, I begin my descent down the air vent to meet the ground beneath us.

"ALICE!"

As I hit the ground, white-hot pain flares throughout my body as I drift into unconsciousness. Still, a smile covers my face knowing Emma will not be alone.

Avalon: Pre-Curse

Alice's POV

As my godmother and I walk alongside the lake where she first found me, I ponder on the life I've lived beside her. I've been in Avalon for nearly a year, but like most thing's in my life, I know it won't last. The only question is, when will this dream end?

"What's wrong, little one?"

Looking up at Morgan le Fay, all my worries surface on my face, making it impossible to hide my concerns from the older woman. "Godmother, are you certain I'm allowed to be here?"

"This again?"

"You said so yourself. Lord Oberon and Lady Titania ordered you to keep intruders from Avalon. Instead, I'm here among you!"

"But you aren't an intruder, little one."

"But, am I a welcomed presence?"

"Did someone say otherwise," Morgan challenged hotly, enraged with the idea that someone on the island didn't like me. "Who was it? Was it the weird sisters?"

"No! It's just... I don't want you to get in trouble. Lord Oberon is bound to return to Avalon at some point, Godmother."

"Not necessarily," Morgan leads on as she kneels to my height. Moments like this, I curse my slow growth. My Godmother blames it on the malnutrition I received within the insane asylum. "Do you remember what I told you about the perception of time my people hold?"

"You're all immortal, so it means nothing to you. But-!"

"And what about the island?"

"...Avalon is different from any other dimension. One hour here is a day in the other world," I recite to the older woman. "Still, doesn't that mean he's bound to return?"

"Yes, at some point he'll return, but for years I've kept watch for him. Caring for the island and her occupants. I've been a faithful servant to the Fae's, and I know they will not fail me now nor forget my kindness."

"I guess."

"Well, I know it, little one," Morgan crooned, grabbing my hand as we continued our walk. "Anything else?"

"...Why did you choose me?" I whispered more so to myself, but Morgan heard me regardless.

"Now I understand," replied my Godmother with a wry smile. The Lady of the Lake slows her pace as her eyes shine with sorrow. "You aren't worried if their wrath will kindle against me. You fear that they will not find you worthy of my company, and force you away from the Island."

"It wouldn't be a challenge to find a fault within, Godmother. I'm... me. Not even my own brother searched for me when I went missing."

"That was his loss, not yours," Morgan sniffs bitterly. For a moment, she remains quiet as we walk. I assume her silence means the conversation ended, but her voice surprises me seconds later. "Do you know how old I am?"

"No...?"

"Neither do I," Morgan confessed to me. "I've been alive for so long. I've seen the beginning of magic, and I'll see the end of it as well. Throughout time, I've seen great men and women bring change throughout the universe, but I've always been alone. Arthur was king of Camelot before its fall. He had the burden of settling the nation that was torn asunder by chaos from before our time. When I came to my Lady Titania to serve her, I still felt the loneliness of life. However, that changed."

"What made it change?"

"Well, when I began my duty as gatekeeper to Avalon, I couldn't leave the island. I still can't, but I would use my mirror, the looking glass as you call it within my studies, to look into the lives of those around me. True, I was forbidden to ever aide those from distant lands, but that doesn't stop me from watching. Some time ago, I found you in that so-called hospital."

"Asylum."

"Still useless," Morgan spit out in disgust. "You had been there for something, I gathered. It was then I noticed the horrors you suffered. One day, I thought I witnessed the light leave your eyes."

"The day they started to drug me," I slowly realized, looking over at the beauty in shock. "You watched for that long?"

"Yes, and I nearly gave up on humanity as a whole that day; however, you changed that. I saw how you cleverly deceived those men into thinking you were an empty shell. Accustomening them to a hallowed out being, not a human. You never gave up. So, I reasoned, if you didn't give up, neither could I. Then came the day of your escape, and I knew if I didn't do something, the light would surely vanish," explained my Godmother. "I brought you here because you deserve so much more than what they have to offer."

"Is that the reason behind my gifts?"

"You mean the enhanced strength and healing?"

"Yes."

"Truthfully, the reasons behind those gifts were rather selfish," Morgan breathed, trying to find a way to tell Ailish the truth without scaring her away. The child still finds it difficult to believe others love her, so it's best to demonstrate acts of affection slowly. "I did that because you mean a great deal to me, and I always want to protect you. If the day does come when you choose to leave me, I want you to be happy and safe... because you are my saving grace."

"I don't think I'm worthy of your love."

"You'll possess it nonetheless. Just remember one thing, little one."

"What is it," I asked curiously. "Godmother?"

"All magic comes with a price. So long as your heart is true and your will undeniable, the powers I gave you will never leave. However, if you give up, so will my blessings."

StoryBrooke: Post-Cure

Alice Pov

"Morgan," I breathed out, wincing at the pain shooting up my spine when I tried to move. I shut my eyes tightly, wishing to retain the memories, but even now, I can feel them disappearing under the pain. "...no..."

As the darkness threatens to take over, my body begins to feel faint. I want to let go. To finally give in.

Fight!

My eyes shoot open from shock. A voice that feels so familiar yet foreign is in my head, pushing me forward.

"Morgan?" I rasped out, coughing when I inhaled some of the dust. "Please..."

More memories slip away from me, and my anger grows, as does my desperation. I want to remember, but my past keeps escaping me. I need to do something! I want to do something!

"I need to fight," I growled, forcing my body up. I ignore the screams of my bones as I haul myself off the wreckage. "I need to remember!" Slowly, I scale the wall. My hands scrape against jagged rocks and broken steel, but I push forward. "I WANT TO LIVE!"

Outside the mines

3rd POV

The group lay in disarray on the other side of the air vent. Hopper was guilt-ridden as a weeping Henry kept apologizing to anyone who would hear him. Regina tried to console her son, but the sudden death of Alice Thorn shook her. Even she couldn't deny the loss of the woman struck her since it was thanks to Alice that her son lived.

Gold was at a loss. He had known the woman for only a few days, but the pain of losing her felt immense. It felt as if someone had stolen a precious gift from him.

Emma, on the other hand, was inconsolable. The only thing running through her mind is her memories. If only she had listened to Alice. If only she hadn't called Alice. If only she had returned to Boston when she had the chance… if only…

"I have to go back," Emma whispered until her muttering turned to yells. "I have to go back!"

"What?!" Graham panicked. "No, absolutely not. It's too dangerous."

"I have to go back. She's my best friend!"

"Alice is gone, Emma. I'm sorry, but it's true. Going back down there won't bring her back to life."

"No, but it'll bring her back to me."

"I forbid-"

"I'll pay you," Gold's broken voice joined the fray. "Do what you have to but bring her back, Miss Swan."

"Of course," grits Emma as she secures the harness around her frame again. Finally, after one final check, Emma went down the vent to find her missing friend.

Soon after her descent began, Emma could hear something in the distance. Ignoring it, she said nothing to the group above as they continued to lower her. However, after another minute passed, Emma could hear something approaching her.

"Stop the line," Emma radioed to her comrades.

"What's wrong?"

"I don't know."

Waiting, Emma shined her light into the void to try and catch a glimpse of the creature making the noise. Nothing could have prepared her to see her best friend struggling to ascend the rough and uneven walls.

Alice's face, filled with fury, couldn't make sense of her surroundings. All she knew is the only way to live was to climb out.

"I CHOOSE LIFE!" Alice roared, stretching her hand out towards the light.

Emma snaps out of her stupor to grab her best friend's hand. At that moment, Alice finally feints, leaving Emma to haul her body to safety.


I hope you guys liked the chapter. The next one will definitely be a whirlwind, so until then, goodbye!