TemperanceTales: I do not own Once Upon a Time in anyway shape or form and I give full credit to the creators. I don't own any fairytales not done in the show either and give credit to respectful owners. I give credit to Bizzarieve for all the help.
Chapter Twenty Eight: Conflict
Morgana traced her mirror edges, dressed in a white dress and furred coat.
She was on her frosty balcony, watching the magic swirl in the mirror. Magic here was much more difficult to use and while it was true that the Manor existed on a mystic plane beyond Storybrooke, she could still feel the Anti-magic seeping in. It made this much more difficult but they need to be connected to this town in order to save it.
Something that was very much not her cup of tea.
"The things I do for this council," Snow Queen muttered.
There was a creak.
Morgana spun around, to see nothing behind her. No person or creature or even shadow crossed her vision. Frowning she went to turn back to her mirror only to yelp when someone knocked her out cold.
"Excuse me?"
The school secretary looked up to see Regina standing at the desk. Swallowing, she turned and said, "Madame Mayor. What can I do for you?"
"I'm here to pick up my son," Regina said briskly.
"Your son?"
"Henry," Regina said impatiently, "Henry Mills."
"Ummm," the secretary said, "Let me see-!"
"Hello Mrs. Potters."
"Ah! Hello Mr. Ryland," the secretary said smiling warmly, "Just sign out here. Did you find who you were looking for."
Regina turned and almost did a double take as she saw Ryaden signing the clipboard. He smiled wryly as he said, "No, I'm afraid she wasn't here today. I had a lovely chat with the sheriff's son, Henry Swan."
Regina felt her stomach churn as the two chatted pleasantries. No, no it couldn't be. This couldn't be happening. Gripping the counter, Regina watched as Ryaden turned to her as he said, "Madame Mayor. Is something wrong?"
"No," Regina growled, "Nothing. If you shall excuse me, I have a sheriff to go see."
"Emma."
Emma looked up from the desk as Ruby raced in with a panicked look on her face. They were in the sheriff's office with the sun low in the sky. Emma had been dealing with paper work all day, desperately trying to not think about what had just occurred within the past many hours. She had been hunting down leads on Alison's case and so far nothing. Erkenziers was known for shotty records and this proved to be another one of those times. Looking at Ruby with some mild concern, Emma said, "Hey Ruby, what's up?"
"It's Regina," Ruby started, looking rather harassed, "She-!"
"Move out of my way!"
There was a slam down the hall as Emma nearly jumped out of her seat. Ruby had no action of astonishment but looked alarmed. Standing over in front of Emma, Ruby watched as Regina stormed in. Snow and David followed behind her, David grasping his jaw. But Regina nor Emma paid much attention to that. The two were too busy glaring at each other, their hatred fueling their stares. Regina then looked at Ruby menacingly and said, "Leave, mutt, I have no interest in dealing with you."
"Well too bad, as right now none of us want to deal with you!" Ruby said, stepping into Regina's personal space. Regina sneered and said, sarcastically, "Well, I'm glad that a waitress has more influence that a Mayor in this town."
"Enough," Emma stood up, not feeling afraid of the woman raging before her, "What do you want, Regina?"
"I want my son back," Regina snapped, and Emma said, "He's not your son. Not anymore."
"Says who?" Regina snarled, pushing to go past Ruby only for Ruby to push her backwards. Regina glared and Emma said, "The Mages. You've caused him enough harm for life times to come."
"And you haven't?" Regina face was contorted in anger, "Who was it the one who didn't believe him, let him eat that apple?!"
"Who's the one who didn't care about his feelings, who isolated him from everyone and everything, put his life on the line by bringing a magic apple back, treated him like he was crazy!" Emma said menacingly, "That. Was. YOU. I meant what I told you a while back and now he has an actual chance to be happy! Now get out of my office before I arrest you for harassment."
David stood near Emma as did Snow White. Regina stared the four of them down, her eyes glassy and burning with hatred. Spinning on her heel she stormed out snapping, "This isn't over!"
Emma gritted her teeth, turning and grabbing her jacket off the chair. David looked at her with worry and said, "Where are you going?"
"I'm going to get Henry and going to take him home," Emma said, putting on her jacket, "I've had enough for one day and I don't want to leave the invitation open for other unwanted visitors."
She pushed past David, who looked torn. Part of him wanted to stop her but another held him back. Snow looked the same but went to go after her. Ruby stopped her and Snow gave her a look. Ruby gave a firm stare saying, "Let her go, Snow. She's not a baby anymore, she can take care this."
"Red," Snow said, obviously offended and Red gave Snow and David a hard stare. She then said her voice very stern, "Look, Emma is not a child. She's been on her own without you both this long, don't start treating her like she can't stand on her own two feet."
Snow bit her lip but David put a hand on her shoulder and said, "She's right, Snow. Let's just wait, she'll come to us if she needs help."
Regina stormed down the sidewalk to her home. Slamming the door, Regina walked into her study to the empty fire place. She opened a box with haste and opened it to reveal some powder. Taking some, she threw it into the ashes which burst up into flames. They shifted from color to color as Regina said, "Enchantress, I ask you come to Storybrooke for a little meeting. It's time."
The flames raged in response glowing green. Regina smiled darkly before extending her hand. Concentrating, Regina smirked evilly as she watch the flames simmer and die. Standing up straight, she turned to walk up the stairs when she heard something upstairs drop on the floor. Walking over to the stairwell, Regina walked up the stairs with narrowed eyes. She didn't sense anything, but she didn't exactly have her full powers restored yet either. Grasping the railing tightly, Regina made it to the second floor. Looking around, nothing seemed out of the ordinary until she heard something move in the other room. Walking briskly over to the door, she opened the door of her bedroom to see nothing at all inside. Regina went to step in when suddenly she was grabbed and violently dragged. Screaming, Regina whirled around blowing up the window behind her. Nothing was there, but something grabbed her again, this time more successfully.
Slamming into the wall, Regina struggled against the firm grip of her attacker. It had to be someone; she felt it and smelled it. Whoever it was smelled old as musky. He cackled madly and Regina snapped her fingers. The grip was lost and Regina scrambled away to the stairs, looking around as the mad cackling continued. Suddenly, she felt grabbed by two pairs of smaller hands and was pushed down the stairs. She fell, feeling something pop in her shoulder. Two young laughs could be heard, two young boys. Afraid and angry, Regina snarled getting up, "Who are you!"
"Who am I, who am I!? That's a good question who am I!" the male's voice sounded cheerfully crazed, "But not a question for me, my dear, not a question for me!"
Regina managed to get up, holding on to her sore arm. She looked around the main room but saw no one. But she heard them, she heard them. As she looked around, Regina heard behind her in a low voice, "Right here, Your Majesty."
Regina turned on her heel and saw a hare with a worn hat that was tilted down to cover his face. He was on the table, jittering his foot against the table. Regina made a cold stare appear on her face as he said, "My Master instructs me to give you this with our little frightening."
He hopped forward with alarming pace and Regina found herself being pushed forward. She looked back to see two boys around Henry's age standing in guard of the door. She looked back to see the hare throw a red rose in her general direction before hopping onto the railing. Hesitating, Regina picked it up saying, "Who are you? Who is your Master?"
"He's March Hare, The March Hare!" Dum and Dee said gleefully coming around either side of the evil queen. March Hare hopped towards the boys and said, "These are Dee and Dum! We are from Wonderland Witch!"
Regina ducked as March Hare threw something at her. Powder burst up around her and Regina coughed, not letting go of the rose. The dust cleared and Regina was alone once more. Gripping the rose even tighter in anger, Regina gasped as the thorns pricked her hand. The rose dropped to the floor as Regina grasped her now bleeding hand. Inhaling deeply, Regina could only think of one question: who could possibly have so much control over Wonderlands crazed crew of war players?
"If it isn't the sheriff."
Emma looked up to see Baelfire walking towards her. He seemed to be in friendly enough spirits. Perhaps she should try and prolong the conversation. Fingering her car keys, Emma smiled weakly at him and said, "Hello, stranger. Enjoying Storybrooke?"
"I am," Baelfire said, smiling more warmly at her, "I've been walking around seeing the sites, but I think it would be more enjoyable if I had company. Care to join me?"
Emma looked into his sincere eyes and paused. Pocketing her key, Emma said, "Sure, why not. I could use the distraction."
Baelfire chuckled at that as he and Emma walked down the streets of Storybrooke. The scenery was nice, the leaves budding on the tree's. Flowers were beginning to bloom and the sun was shining out. Emma was taking in the scene when Baelfire said, "So how is my father doing?"
"What?!" Emma looked at him, slightly alarmed. Baelfire smiled at her understandingly and said, "I saw you and my father at the sheriff station last night. Sorry if that seems nosy of me, but I like to know who I'm dealing with. So how is he?"
"He's... good," Emma said, as they walked along, "He's been searching for you."
Baelfire's smile weakened and said, "Well that's good to know..."
Emma noticed his slight withdrawal and Emma felt a bit of panic inside. As much as she could tell Gold cared about him, she really didn't know what their last confrontation was like. Emma and him crossed the street and she said, "If you don't want him to talk to you, I understand-."
"It's fine," Baelfire said suddenly. He looked at her with a sharp look and said, "Don't worry about it, it's not as bad as your probably thinking."
"Alright, it's just I know your dad is not always the nicest person in the world," Emma said, sticking her hands in the pocket, "In fact he doesn't get along with most people in this town."
"Well there's a shocker," Bae said sarcastically, and Emma could for a split second the relation between Gold and him. Shaking her head, Emma then said, "But he is liked, especially by Autumn."
"Which is surprising. How in the world did that come about?" Baelfire said, his curiosity rising, "I mean, my father isn't the type to let people in so how did those two-?"
"Get so close?" Emma asked, "Well, I don't know how they met exactly. When I first came to town, they had already gotten along with each other. But Autumn hadn't been living with him at the time, she was with her previous foster mother."
"She's a foster kid?" Baelfire said, his voice sounding sharp again. Emma nodded, staring at him strangely. She wasn't trying to be the snitch here, but she was hoping that maybe something might trigger a conversation about being a father, or anything about where he had been really. Baelfire then said quickly, "Sorry, I've been in the foster system myself and it wasn't so kind..."
"Same here," Emma said, beginning to understand. The story of Rumpelstiltskin, she had read it after borrowing Henry's book. After going through the portal, he must have ended up there. Emma then continued saying, "She was a mystery to most for a while. It wasn't until the Snow Queen incident that things started coming in the light-."
"What Snow Queen incident?" Baelfire asked sharply. Emma made a face and said, "The Snow Queen, at the time I didn't really believe it but now I do, she had kidnapped Autumn and myself. After we tried to escape, we found ourselves tied to chairs and Snow Queen pointing a gun into her chest. She kept asking questions about Autumn's life and finally made her inhale some strange gas."
"Still ever the witch of ice," Baelfire said darkly. Emma tensed up, looking at him confused. Baelfire looked at her and said, "I don't have good history with her. She and I have a very longstanding score to settle."
"Why?" Emma said, her heart skipping a beat. Baelfire looked at Emma, evaluating his next move. Baelfire's smile faded and said, "She's responsible for the death of someone I loved dearly."
Emma inhaled sharply, unable to hold in her surprise. Baelfire took little notice of it, feeling nostalgia saying, "My little girl...she had gone missing for a month and I was out searching for her. I came home and found my home destroyed almost like it had been burnt to the ground. But everywhere was snow and ice, and I found blood on the back porch with her coat. Tests came to prove that the blood was hers."
Emma felt horror seize her gut. How would Autumn not remember being attacked? By the Snow Queen no less. She felt for the man next to her and the only thing keeping Autumn's secret in was confusion. She then snapped out of her trance and said, "I'm so sorry."
"It's fine, you didn't know," Baelfire said understandingly. He then smiled and said, "You can just tell me another story to compensate."
"Story?" Emma said incredulously.
"Yes," Baelfire said, "Tell me about Autumn. You said her story didn't come to full light until the Snow Queen. What was going on?"
"Her former Foster mother's boyfriend had been abusing her," Emma said with a bitter sigh. They walked into the park and sat down on an empty bench. "He was a complete nut job. He even went as far as trying to kill her when we found out. I've never seen Gold so upset. She and Gold got closer, even when she got a new foster mom. Autumn's life improved, until…"
"What?" Baelfire asked, looking mildly concerned. Emma looked out at the kids playing in the park. Should she tell him? What if he was just fishing for information? Emma finally decided for a half truth as she said, "People from her past came back and she ended up having to give up the person she loved most."
"And who was that?" Baelfire said, feeling guilt build up more by the minute. Emma wasn't telling him everything but he could read between the lines. The Mages came back into the picture and probably cornered her into helping them. Emma smiled weakly and said, "Kathryn Nolan, her most recent foster mother. The two didn't start off loving each other, but boy did they get close in the end. Kathryn has been one of the only ones to get through to Autumn. Autumn had to give that up. Gold and she were extremely close, but I think Autumn's bond with Kathryn was special. Autumn never had a mother to love her until Kathryn Nolan. I personally think it went above and beyond true love."
"Wow," Baelfire said, staring out at the kids playing, "What a brave kid..."
"So," Emma said, leaning back, "What are you going to do about your father?"
"Fix things," Baelfire said, "I think we've had enough of this strained relationship. It's going to take work, but it will be worth it."
Emma watched him for a minute and said, "You made the book, didn't you?"
"Huh?" Baelfire said, and Emma said, staring at him intently, "Kinsleigh is the author of the book Once Upon a Time. I know because my son has it. How did you get it here?"
"You're a clever one," Baelfire sighed and said, "I dropped it off at the school years ago. I was hoping once the savior would come along, it would help her break the curse and everyone would go home."
"Why not confront your Dad then?" Emma asked, confused, "If you knew he was here, why not go to him?"
"Because I had my kid," Baelfire said, looking at Emma intently, "She grew up without a mother, she only had me. I couldn't put her neck on the line just so my dad and I could sort things out."
Emma nodded, understanding his reasoning. His daughter had been his greatest priority, which she admired. Most men Emma ran into didn't step up to the plate in taking care of children. No wonder Autumn had loved him so much. Baelfire smile returned and he said, "I do thank you for the company, despite the sad stories it was enjoyable."
Emma smiled and said, "Any time."
Baelfire stood up and said, looking down at her, "I think I've stalled long enough. See you around Emma."
Emma stood up and said, "Anytime. I should get going, Henry's probably with Autumn somewhere and I should find them before they get into trouble."
Baelfire laughed and parted ways with the sheriff. He then had his smile disappear while walking down the streets. He kept twisting and turning until he was alone in an alleyway. He then stopped, hands in his coat pockets. He then said coldly, "Next time you want to tail me be more discreet!"
Something leaped down and the White Rabbit was standing behind him. Baelfire turned and narrowed his eyes saying, "Why are you following me, Rabbit?"
"Because you have worried my Mistress," the White Rabbit said calmly, "She is not sure if you are friend or enemy."
Baelfire scoffed, but smirked. Kid had guts, she really did. Smart too. Baelfire then said, "Are you asking me if I have anything to do with entrapping everyone here?"
"Indirectly I suppose," the White Rabbit said, not advancing anymore, "What is your answer?"
"I don't have one," Baelfire said, "But I want a meeting with your Mistress, tell me what is her name?"
The White Rabbit stared at him and said, "You should know the name better than anyone."
Baelfire narrowed his eyes and began walking towards the rabbit saying, "What are you talking about-?"
There was a crack of white smoke and Baelfire was by himself. There was a low chuckle and the White Rabbit's voice could be heard, "You shall have your meeting. But only when you are ready for it."
Baelfire coughed, wrinkling his nose in disgust. He then spotted a rose on the ground. It was thornless and white. Picking it up, Baelfire sniffed it. It smelled sweet, almost like vanilla. He could help but smile at his next thought: It was Lisie's favorite scent.
"Alison!"
Henry walked through the forest with Ava and Nicholas walking around. Grace was just a bit ahead of Henry following in what she knew the correct path was. Hatter had gone on ahead. Jefferson had met up with them looking rather alarmed. Henry felt alarmed too; something was really wrong. There was that gut feeling that she was planning something and not telling them about it. Ava looked at Grace and said, "Are you sure she's this way?"
"Daddy said she would be," Grace said, "He just went ahead to make sure everything is okay."
"Okay?" Nicholas asked worried, "Why wouldn't it be okay?"
"He-He didn't say," Grace said, sounding a little worried, "Don't worry, I'm sure things are fine."
Alison stood at the town line, right where the shield she had put in place stood firm. She could pass it, and she would need to in order to confirm or contradict suspicions. Reaching out her hand, the symbol on the back began to glow. Alison then reached through the shield, feeling the magic run across her arm. She felt the tension on the other side as the Anti-Magic came closer. Closing her eyes, Autumn braced herself for the shock. And sure enough, there it was. Alison inhaled sharply and gritted her teeth. It hurt, everything hurt. But she had to feel it, understand it.
And she did.
Gasping, Autumn pulled away. Staring with wide eyes at the scenery before her, Autumn had her mind whirling. Inhaling sharply, Autumn turned around to see Jefferson looking at her. She crossed her arms and said calmly, "It's not him."
"Not him?" Jefferson said, "Then who?"
"Someone with dark anti-magic," Autumn said shaking her head slightly, "But it's definitely not him."
"Are you okay?" Jefferson asked, looking at her concerned. Autumn looked down at her hand and nodded. Walking over to him, Autumn suddenly stopped. Looking at him confused, Autumn asked, "Why are you here?"
Jefferson looked at her and said, "I felt the door open. You brought them, didn't you? From Wonderland."
"I needed to," Autumn said, looked worried now, "I needed my team back, the Mage's won't always be able to help and I can't do this alone. Emma needs to discover magic and if Regina keeps coming at us, she will never learn."
"And I'm assuming you didn't tell Gold that you brought anyone over?" Jefferson said, "Why do you keep hiding things from him, from me, from everyone!?"
"I'm not hiding anything, I'm doing all of this because I need to Jefferson!" Autumn shouted, but her voice was desperate not angry, "We have walked in a situation blind and I am just trying to find out what's going on without being held captive by other Mages!"
"Then why not just tell me," Jefferson said and Autumn said, "Because you and I had a deal. That once you had a way back to Grace, that you were done with all of this!"
"And you seriously think that I would leave you on your own," Jefferson said, almost heatedly and Autumn said, "I thought you would want to protect Grace! I wasn't going to pull you back into this mess, Jefferson. Believe, I thought you were done..."
Alison looked troubled and she said, "I'm sorry."
Whatever anger might have been in Jefferson faded away. Instead he was looking at her strangely. It was her, not Autumn, not the frightened little girl that hid secrets, it was Alison. There was no longer any callousness inside, the pure honesty shining through, the braveness seeping out, her noble justice taking over. Smiling almost twitchy, Jefferson said, "I haven't see that in forever..."
"W-What?" Alison said as Jefferson walked over to her. He then reached out hugging her. Hugging him back, Alison heard him say, "It's nice to see the muchness of you."
Autumn smiled weakly and said, "Still ever the mad one, aren't you?"
"Nonsense," Jefferson said, releasing her but walking her down the slope, "You're the mad one for painting the roses red."
Alison scowled and said, "Don't EVER mention that again, I hate roses to begin with."
"Autumn!"
Both looked to see Grace leading Henry, Ava, and Nicholas to them. Alison smiled weakly and said, "Hey guys, you should have just waited back in town for me."
"We were worried!" Henry said racing over to her, "I hate when you run off like that, you're usually doing something that people won't like."
"Well, I guess in that regard I'm not alright," Autumn said, shrugging carelessly, "I just successfully made sure that Baelfire Kinsleigh wasn't the enemy and probably intimidated the evil queen a bit."
"What? Wait a minute, how did you intimidate her?" Henry demanded.
"Who's Baelfire Kinsleigh?" Grace said baffled.
"And why would he be an enemy?" Ava asked.
"I sent the March Hare with Dee and Dum to scare her," Autumn said, "Keep her focus off of Emma for a little while. And as for your other questions...Baelfire Kinsleigh is my father."
"What?!" Ava asked sharply.
"I thought he was dead!" Grace said stricken. Sadness flickered over Autumn's face and Jefferson couldn't help but feel negative emotions fill Alison. Shaking her head a bit, Autumn said, "I thought so too. But apparently he's not and apparently he has Anti-Magic. But luckily it's not the same as the Anti-Magic barrier. I know I just check."
"Are you sure?" Ava asked and Henry shouted, "What did you do, Autumn?!"
"It's Alison," Autumn shot back, "And I sent the March Hare with Dee and Dum to give her a message."
Henry looked at her warily and said, "What message?"
"I sent a message showing her just who's in charge," Alison said narrowing her eyes, "Why are you so concerned Henry?"
"I-I know she's the evil queen," Henry said, "But she's still my mom. It's not fair to give Rumpelstiltskin a chance and not her."
"Henry," Alison said warningly, "Don't entangle yourself with her anymore. She's already shown signs of having something to do with this Anti-Magic and I will not give her the benefit of the doubt."
Henry swallowed and Alison said seriously, "I know you love her, but don't forget she will kill anyone without a second thought, including Emma. While Rumpelstiltskin is not off the hook completely, he at least has a reason that can't be help for the evil inside him."
Alison passed by him, her face still serious. Henry swallowed and said, "I know she's horrible, and that she has to be punished. But does it have to be you to do it?"
"I am in charge this because Master is not here," Alison said sharply, "And because he was tending to something in Wonderland, he had left me with instructions to take care of Storybrooke. And because of whatever Regina has planned with Anti-Magic he's not here! So yes, I have to be the one to do it!"
Alison looked back, staring at him and said honestly, "I don't want to hurt you Henry, but there is no protecting Regina now. She's dug her own grave."
Ava bit her lip and Nicholas looked from Autumn to Henry. Grace felt her father come beside her. Taking her hand, Jefferson watched Alison with a bittersweet look. Alison watched Henry and said, "Henry, go home. Be with Emma. You have a family now to be safe with, to love you unconditionally. Don't throw that away because you think there might be humanity left in Regina."
Henry looked down which made Alison have a twitch of sadness. Ava then walked forward and said, to Henry, "I know it's upsetting, being she raised you and all. But just remember, she only showed that brief glimmer of 'love' to you. She hates the rest of us and is willing to kill anyone that gets in her way."
"I know that," Henry said, sounding miserably, "I know... I'm sorry."
"Don't be," Alison said, reaching out and taking his hand, "This was never going to be easy for you. We know that, we understand that."
Alison looked at Henry sincerely and said, "I don't want to lose you again."
Henry looked at Autumn with surprise, before gripping her hand slightly. Alison smiled and said, "Come on, let's get going before it gets dark. Besides, I have to make sure March Hare and the twins are behaving."
Jefferson's smile twitched and he said, "I really highly doubt that."
"It doesn't matter, Sofronia won't let them do anything too dangerous," Alison said, shrugging as she walked away with the group. Jefferson walked behind them watching the area around them with feign disinterest. Ava then walked up by Autumn and slung her arm around her shoulders. Henry let go of her hand as Grace and Nicholas strode next to him. Autumn looked at Ava as the girl beside her said, "Thank you, for having Father remember us."
"It's was only fair," Autumn said, "It would have been really mind warping to have you remember and not him."
Ava couldn't help but smile at that. Ava glanced back at Henry and said, lowly, "Any idea's on how the Evil Queen used Anti-Magic to keeps us trapped here?"
"Nothing for sure," Autumn said, frowning, "The only thing I can think of is that woman that attacked me is working together with her. Tzila or Ozzie would know more, they are more the knowledge based Mage's than anyone of us."
"Are they going to be safe to ask? Henry said it soundly like they were going to take you away."
Autumn didn't comment, as if afraid to answer. Ava looked down at Autumn and said, "So who is it that is missing from the other world's? Do you know?"
"Yeah, that I do," Autumn said, "Peter Pan from Neverland, The Monster of Fear from Hallowed Land, The Good Witch of Oz, The Entrance to the Isle, and Jack Frost."
"The Guardian?" Ava's eyes widened, "Is Anti-Magic powerful enough to overcome a Guardian?"
"Depends on the user," Autumn said, "It must have been seriously powerful to overcome him. Believe me, Jack Frost is no joke when it comes to fighting. And before you ask, I don't know what was stolen from Wonderland yet."
Ava nodded, processing everything she has been told. Finally Ava sighed a bit and said, "So you do realize you still have to go to school tomorrow? You already missed today and Regina was already poking her head around."
Autumn froze up and said, "Are you serious?"
"Yep," Ava said, "Unfortunately we can't do much because she is still the mayor. Everyone else doesn't know about our other world and we have to pretend we still don't remember and that she is almighty."
"I couldn't do anything about that. The more changes I make, the more difficult the magic is," Autumn said her voice going quiet, "But school… That will be weird."
"Why?" Ava asked and Autumn said, "Kathryn usually walked me to school in the morning. Then I would stop by her work afterwards so we could walk home."
Ava felt a stabbing guilt for her friend, but didn't let it show. Giving a look of empathy instead, Ava squeezed her friend gently and said firmly, "Don't worry, you can walk home with Nicholas and I. We live over near Gold so you won't have to walk by yourself."
Autumn nodded slowly, but gave no other answer. Ava then said, keeping her voice casual, "So you can do magic?"
"Yes," Autumn said as they came out of the forest and into the town. Ava then grinned and said, "You'll have to show me sometime. I've never seen anyone use magic except the evil queen."
"Sure," Autumn said, "Even though I'm not supposed to play with magic. It's not as costly for me, but it still has a price."
"Oh no, but I would like to see what your practicing is like," Ava grinned, "You'll have to bring me next time you have to train."
Autumn smiled and nodded. She then slung her own arm around Ava's shoulders. They were walking down main street towards Granny's. Ava released Autumn to open the door of the diner. Walking into the diner, Jefferson stopped Grace and gave her a pouch saying, "I have some work to do at home. I will see you later alright?"
Grace nodded and he kissed the top of her head. Grace then followed in after them, sliding into the booth next to Henry and Ava. Nicholas sat next to Autumn and Henry asked, "So has anyone done their history homework? I haven't had time to do mine with everything that was going on."
"I did!" Grace said, happily, "I can help you if you'd like."
"Sure," Henry said, pulling his homework out. While he and Grace chatted away, Autumn noticed someone outside. It was Regina, watching intently before disappearing. Alison bit her lip before Granny's voice caught her attention.
"So, I'm taking it you haven't eaten anything at all today?"
"Nope!" Autumn said looking up into Granny's eyes. Shaking her head, Granny swatted Autumn's shoulder playfully and said, "You are terrible. It's not a wonder you're so skinny. Well come in the back with me, I'll need helping getting food ready for you and your friends. Is sandwiches and soup alright with you all? Don't worry, it's on the house."
"Yes, it is," Ava said politely. Autumn slid out of the booth and followed Granny in the back. The cook glanced up at her and said, "The back stove is free."
"Thank you, Robert," Granny said as they walked over to the free stove. Autumn went over and washed her hands as Granny slid on gloves. Autumn did the same after drying her hands as Granny immediately got to work. Placing the bread on the pan, Granny said, "So I here you are the Mage of Wonderland. I hope that doesn't give you the idea that you can boss me around, little missy."
"I couldn't if I tried," Autumn grinned sheepishly. Granny kissed her cheek as she asked, "Is Gold treating you alright?"
"Um, yeah. Why?" Autumn asked, a little surprised. Granny looked at her, her glasses a bit low on her nose. She then looked back at the stove putting a rather big pot on the stove beside her and said, "I want to make sure that imp is taking good care of you. Stir the soup a bit for me so it'll be nice and smooth."
Autumn stood on the stool by Granny and said, stirring the soup, "I know no one thinks highly of him, but just remember he was a man before he was an imp."
"It's how he became the imp that concerns me," Granny said briskly. Turning the bread over and going over to cut up lettuce, Granny heard Autumn said, "He got tricked... I know it's hard to believe but he didn't want that power. He was trying to save someone really important to him."
"Oh really?" Granny said, cutting up the food with a bit more force than necessary, "And who was that?"
"My father," Autumn said after a time, staring into the soup, "His son..."
Granny stopped, putting the knife down on her cutting board. Granny looked at Autumn strangely and said, "Your father is his son? So you are from our world?"
"No, I was born here," Alison spoke, sounding honest and matter of fact, "You see, My father tried to escape with Gold to this world, so Gold wouldn't be influenced by the power anymore. But the power got in the way, starting taking him away bit by bit and my father ended up alone..."
"Well," Granny said, going back to take the bread of the stove, "I would imagine your father was pretty mad."
"Yes," Autumn said slowly, "He was at first, but love won out. He said what will wasting our time with anger accomplish? Absolutely nothing..."
"Well, I must say," Granny said walking over to Autumn and staring at her intently, "Your father was a very good man. It's a shame they were never reunited..."
"...He's not dead," Alison said, sounding sad. Granny then turned the young girl towards her and said, "What? I thought you said he was dead."
"I thought so too," Alison said staring into Granny's face, "But then he waltzed into town, very much alive and healthy."
"But the people at the Orphanage told you that your father had died," Granny said confused, "How could they make such a mistake?"
"I don't know," Alison said, sounding unsure, "He didn't recognize me, and Emma hasn't come back telling me if she found out anything."
"Well then," Granny said, "I guess we will have to wait till Emma comes back with the report. Where is your father anyway?"
"You know August?" Autumn said and Granny nodded, "He's been with him."
"The man with the dark hair and eyes," Granny asked, as she began to put the sandwiches together, "He stopped by for Breakfast this morning, very friendly and very polite. Hard to believe they are from the same family."
"That's because Gold doesn't let anyone in," Alison said as she watched the steam come off the soup, "If he did, you would see it."
Granny nodded and then turned off the stove saying, "Alright, that should be done. So how is the garden coming along?"
Alison smiled and said, "It's coming along. Were the herbs any good?"
"Absolutely, made the best tomato soup," Granny said, as Alison climbed down from the stool. She helped Granny put the chips next to the cut up sandwiches. Granny then went over to the soup pouring it into the small bowls and said, "Go on into the next room with your friends, Ruby and I will bring out the food in a minute."
"Kay," Autumn hurried away and Granny watched her go with a smile. Red came up beside her and said, "Your soft side is showing."
"Is that a bad thing?" Granny huffed and Red said, "Gold isn't going to hurt her Granny, he loves her too much."
"Can't be too careful," Granny said, firmly as Ruby finished helping her, "Remember the last time we thought nothing was wrong?"
Ruby winced and said, taking two of the plates, "I remember, but it's not like we don't know what her living situation is now."
"That may be true," Granny admitted taking a tray for the other three plates, "But still, there is no harm in asking."
Ruby smiled weakly and asked, "Have you talked to Gold yet? About-?"
"No, not yet," Granny said, picking up the now filled tray, "I was thinking you could walk Alison to the store and ask him about it. And maybe just make sure everything is okay with Alison."
"Granny, she asked to be called Autumn still," Ruby said with warning, "It'll be really confusing if someone hears you call her Alison. And I'll wait to talk to Gold, I don't want Autumn to hear…"
"Well never you mind, it's just us two," Granny said, glancing at Robert, "Robert's too busy concentrating."
"Hm? Someone say something about me?" Robert said, looking back. Granny shook her head and said, "Never mind us, Robert. We're just talking about business."
"Alright," he said turning back to the dough he was kneading. The two went back out to the very talkative table. The two put the plates on the table and Granny said kindly, "Eat up, all of you. Especially you, Autumn, you don't eat enough for my liking."
Autumn smiled brightly up at her and Granny left the group with Ruby. Ruby pulled up a chair and sat down by Autumn and said, "Eat up, or Granny will have both of our skins."
Autumn nodded, beginning to eat her food. Ruby pushed back her hair and watched Autumn with a gentle look. The other children were talking about how useless History class was now that they would be leaving this world soon. Autumn wasn't talking to the others though, just eating. Ruby tilted her head and said, "Are you sure everything is okay?"
"It's okay as it will ever be," Alison said, honestly. Ruby nodded and said, "I'm going to see if Robert needs any help in the back. Finish up that food of yours, or Granny will throw a fit."
Autumn nodded and went back to eating her food. Nicholas glanced at her diffidently and said, "So we'll meet up after class to walk you home?"
"Mhm," Autumn said after swallowing the last of her soup, "Where do you guys live exactly?"
"Just a few blocks before you," Nicholas said, his voice growing less timid, "Ava and I have passed Gold's shop to get to dad's Garage."
"Autumn!"
Autumn looked up to see Red coming over with the phone. Handing her the phone, Red said, "It's Gold."
Looking warily at him, Autumn took the phone and said into it, "Hello?"
"Alison, where are you?" his voice sounded urgent.
"I'm at Granny's diner, eating," Autumn said, "Why?"
"I need you to head home now," Gold said, "Belle will be there shortly to keep you company until I get back."
"Why? What's wrong?" Alison said unsure.
"I'm not quite sure yet," Gold said, "But I promise to tell you once I get home, dearie. Okay?"
"Okay," Autumn said nervously, "See you then."
"See you then," Gold reassured Autumn before hanging up the phone. Frowning instantly, Gold turned back to Emma and said, "Miss Swan, what is so urgent that you called my store a hundred times."
"Sorry, but considering the new circumstances, it seems urgent," Emma said, quickly, "I sense something else at play here and I think it has to do with these other Mages."
"And what is that?"
"I looked into the orphanage that handled Autumn's placements," Emma said, "It took me some phone calls, digging, and a favor to get her original paperwork."
"And what does this have to do with the mages?" Gold asked.
"Autumn told me that her mother is the one who signed away her rights to her, claiming that she didn't want her," Emma said, "But that isn't the case."
"What do you mean?" Gold said as Emma pulled out a piece of paper and said, "Look who signed this form."
Gold took the paper and his gut dropped.
"This can't be for real," Gold said.
"It is," Emma said, "The person that gave her to the orphanage was a Morgana Smith."
"The Snow Queen," growled Gold, "Coincidence I think not. And I highly doubt that she is her mother either."
"Neither do I," Emma said, "Tie this with the fact that they are trying to find Autumn…"
"Something else is at play here." Gold repeated seriously.
"There is more," Emma said, "I talked to Baelfire today. Apparently, Alison was missing for a whole month when she fell into Wonderland. After that, Baelfire came back to his house burned down and coated in snow. He found her coat with her blood all over the back porch."
"Was it proven to be hers?"
"Tests confirmed it," Emma said, "Gold, how could she not remember being attacked like that?"
"She might have altered her memories," Gold said, darkly, "I think it's time we paid the mages another visit."
"No need."
Emma and Gold nearly jumped out of their skins when Ryaden came out of the shadows. Emma kept a stoic face as Gold growled, "And what are you doing here?"
"I was looking for the kid," Ryaden said, "I'm assuming you found her, considering I can't."
"She belongs with me," Gold said menacingly.
"I'm not contesting that," Ryaden said, "But we have bigger problems. Morgana went missing this morning, her room trashed."
"Have you been listening to our discussion at all?" Gold asked irritated.
"I did," Ryaden said, "Which makes this even more troublesome considering that all of us thought the anklebiter was dead."
"Oh really," Emma said coldly.
"Yes really," Ryaden huffed, "It's part of the reason why Baelfire and we Mages had a falling out years ago."
"What's the other part?" Emma said.
"Nothing that's your concern," Ryaden said, "What is my concern that he shows up and she disappears."
"Are you accusing my son of something?" growled Gold.
"I'm afraid that he's going to do something stupid before we can tell him that his kid is still alive," Ryaden snapped, "He kills her, we'll have no choice but to go after him."
Gold jerked forward only to have Emma jump up between them. Emma glared at Ryaden as she said, "We'll search for her. In the mean time, you try and find out why Morgana would throw Autumn in the orphanage without telling you, deal?"
Ryaden made a face but nodded curtly.
The house was eerily quiet as Alison closed the door. Looking around, Alison slowly walked up the stairs calling out, "Belle? Are you here?"
There was no response and she sighed. Going into the bedroom, Alison sat on the bed. Pulling off her shoes, Alison found herself laying down on the bed feeling drained. Staring outside, Alison watched the darkening sky outside. She wasn't sure if it was normal, but she felt surprisingly…neutral. Closing her eyes, Autumn felt herself slip away into darkness of dreams. Night fell upon the house with the young child being the only occupant. Until suddenly a window opened softly. A boy came in, looking wild and smirking. He jumped down lightly to the floor looking at the bed. Her sleeping face triggered something, his smirk dying. He tilted his head and hovered over her. He looked on with stern curiosity and said, "I didn't think they would be so alike."
His look darkened as he extended his hand saying, "Remember that day, that nightmare. Your Daddy was not so strong enough to protect you and never will be. Everything you know to be around you is a lie. You are unlovable after all."
Electricity shot out around his hand as she stirred. Sparkling dust came down upon her face, which made a look of discomfort. But she remained asleep which made him grin. He then leaped out the window, leaving alone to her dream.
"Daddy!"
The fire was around her as she looked around the flaming house. She coughed violent, tears filling her eyes as she watched the home she grew up in burn. But it didn't matter if she lost the home, the books, the toys; she just needed her father. Looking into the hallway, she felt something unearthly protecting her from the flames. It was almost like she was being drawn in. At the end of the hallway, she saw the man standing there. It was her father; hands in his pockets like the flames around him were nothing.
"Daddy? What are you doing daddy, leave!" Alison screamed, but all he did was chuckled evilly and said, "No Lisie, I'm not going anywhere. You did this, you fix it."
"Daddy, no, I didn't do this!" Alison said as the fire cracked around them, "I can't stop it!"
"How useless of a Mage," Baelfire scoffed walking down the hall. He suddenly leaped down at her with unearthly speed and grasped her. His cold eyes were nothing like what she was used to. He stared at her as she was too frightened to pull away. He then said coldly, turning and walking away, "Magic through and through, just like your mother. I have no interest in having such magic. Goodbye Alison."
"No Daddy!" Alison said, tears staining her cheeks, "I love you, I not like mommy!"
Baelfire stopped. Alison watched him suddenly turn around, his face not his own. Alison screamed watching the man she thought to be her father turn into a dark creature. Its dark smirk curled back as Alison ran away. The Monster of Fear lunged after her, slashing its dark magic after her. Alison had made it to the porch when she felt herself get slammed to the ground. The monster pinned her stabbing her with what looked like a white rose. Instead of a wonder there was black colored magic surrounding the puncture. The rose turned red and the monster disappeared laughing cruelly. Alison was then forcefully turned around to face the thing she could not fight. She heard the most chilling voice when she felt herself get sucked into darkness.
"Your daddy is dead."
Belle was unloading the bags of groceries with Snow White when both of them heard Alison scream bloody murder upstairs.
Morgana struggled against her bonds, which didn't budge at all. She couldn't tell where she was as her eyes were covered by cloth. Her magic was being repressed, preventing her from running anywhere. Gritting her teeth as she said coldly, "I know your there, Baelfire. I can sense your seething rage."
There were footsteps and someone stopped near her. She could feel a presence, however a female laugh filled the room. Morgana froze as the woman said, "No, dear. I'm afraid it is not your nemesis."
Morgana gasped, feeling a blow to her face. She could taste blood in her mouth. The woman clucked her tongue as she said, "Don't fret, dear. If all goes according to plan, that will be the most of the injuries you will receive."
~Storybook~
Alison giggled as she showed Aislinn her magic. Aislinn wore her usual dress, Alison sitting on her lap. The flowers bloomed in the field around her and radiating warmth came over them. Aislinn smiled proudly and said, "You've mastered the basics in such a short amount of time. I'm impressed."
"That's cause I can hear it," Alison said cheerfully. Aislinn looked at the girl curious and asked, "Hear what, Alison?"
"The world," Alison said matter of factly, "It tells me how to, how not to."
"Oh really?" Aislinn said, understanding what she was talking about. This child had a very good bond with this world. Smiling fondly, Aislinn spotted two people walking towards them. Pointing across to them, Aislinn said, "Our lessons are done now. Go to Jane, I would like to talk to Jack briefly."
"Jane!" Alison ran over to the fellow Mage and Jane sat down on the ground. Hugging Jane, Alison then began chatting away with her. Jack walked over, the frost appearing on the ground. Jack glanced over at the child and said, "She's progressing nicely. I did not expect her to grasp so much magic quickly."
"She has a special bond with this world," Aislinn said, folding her hands. Standing up, Aislinn said, "But having a bond with this world will not be enough for long. She can't stand a chance against the queen of hearts still dependant on the world. When will you be ready soon?"
"Soon," Jack said, eyeing Alison with a contemplating look, "You've done you work well, the next step should go smoothly."
"I'm glad," Aislinn said, "I was worried she would reject the magic with all she had been through and her own father's views…"
"The former Mage of Wonderland was worried about teaching the current Mage of Wonderland?" Jack said, giving her a mocking smirk. Aislinn's form tensed up and Jack sobered up. Aislinn said stiffly, "That was another life Jack, quite literally. I'm not allowed to have memories interfere with my duties now."
"I understand," Jack said pointedly as he saw the bitterness in her eyes, "And so does the hatter."
Aislinn watched Alison interact with Jane and Jack said, "Grace is fine, by the way."
Aislinn nodded slowly and said, "I will let the Hatter know."
"Jack!"
Jack watched with distant but somewhat eager eyes as Alison ran over to him. He smiled as Alison made a face at the frost. She gave him an adorable pout and said stubbornly, "I worked hard on that, you know."
Jack snickered and said cheekily, "IF you can overpower my frost little one, it will be even prettier."
Alison wrinkled her nose in concentration as Jack Frost felt the warmth surround her body. She unfortunately could not extend the power over the frost. Stomping her little foot, Alison heard Jack Frost chuckle. Jack pulled her into a hug and said, "Don't worry, I'll be back to work with you soon."
Alison pouted and said, "You're leaving?"
"Yes, I have to go home," Jack said, kissing the top of her head. Alison then felt Jane put her hands on her shoulders, saying, "Night time is coming and you need sleep. Say Goodbye to them."
"Bye Jack, Bye Aislinn," Alison said, waving her hand around. Jack smiled and said, "Bye Alison. Don't be sneaking off to practice on the Mage of Neverland."
"Fine," Alison nodded, grinning cheekily. Aislinn came over and kissed Alison's cheek and said, "Goodnight Alison. Sleep tight alright?"
"Mhm," Alison said snuggling back into Jane. Jane smiled, hugging the child back before leading her away. Jack watched Jane leave and Aislinn sighed. He then watched Aislinn and said, "What?"
"I'm afraid we might not have enough time," Aislinn said worried, "The Queen of Hearts is actively searching for her and we won't be able to keep her in the Cheshire Lair for long."
"Well, once she's master this world," Jack said, shoving his hands in his pockets, "I will be taking her to mine. The best way for her to learn quickly is to push it in my world."
"But Morgana isn't friendly with her family," Aislinn said warningly, "And Hatter won't let Alison out of his sight, nor will the other Wonderlanders."
"Don't worry," Jack said, gripping the inside of his pockets, "I have a plan for that."
