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 Nine: Peter Pan

There was a burst of snow in the air as Morgana held out her hand towards the burning home. The snow swirled around it, the flames disappearing within a matter of minutes. Her face looked stricken and worried as the snow died down. She then gathered up the skirts of her dress and ran up to the porch. There was a form curled up on the ground. Falling to her knees, Morgana shook Alison saying panicked, "Alison! Alison Marie!"

Alison did not wake but was breathing. Pulling the child onto her lap, Morgana actually looked worried. Leaning in, Morgana pressed her forehead against Alison's. It was faint but the magic was still pulsing slightly. Sighing, Morgana pulled away and looked up at the house on guard. The house was no longer burning but what was left was burnt and frozen. Picking up Alison, she noticed something fall to the ground. It was a red rose, which made her stomach turn. Looking around, Morgana demanded, the snow fall quickening, "Baelfire Kinsleigh!"

There was no answer as Morgana felt for his presence. A feeling of dread grew in her stomach as she wandered through the ruins of the home. She didn't find anyone, the loneliness of the ruins coming more into play. Morgana didn't mind it, but it wasn't what she wanted to see. For this child's sake, she wanted to see someone very much alive. A distinct smell came about as she turned the corner of what would have been the hallway. She suddenly gasped sharply, seeing the heap of black ash she recognized. They were too late, it got him. Alison shifted and Morgana gently pressed the child into her shoulder protectively. Here was the Snow Queen, the very woman who swore vengeance on this man, mourning his death. This was not how it was supposed to end…

Snow White watched as Belle paced back and forth nervously. The shower was running next door, showing that Alison was still locked in the bathroom. Alison's scream had left them dashing up the stairs only to find her running into the bathroom. Gold had not answered the phone and Belle looked panicked. Snow White hadn't the heart to leave, especially with Autumn in such hysterics. Belle finally stopped and said, "I don't know what to do."

"Let her try and relax," Snow White said sighing, "She seemed spooked, I'm sure she'll be ready to talk to you."

"I feel like she won't talk to me," Belle said upset, "I mean, we were bonding and getting close when I first met her but after Rumple and I got back together, we haven't been quite the same."

"She's done this before?" Snow asked, surprised and Belle said, "She's never been this bad, but she does wake up upset in the night and run in the bathroom. When she comes out and I try to talk to her, she brushes me off. The only one that she really talked to was… Kathryn."

Snow White smiled weakly and said, "That's because the only one she trusted enough to talk to about these issues was Kathryn. It took even Kathryn a while to get close to Autumn. It didn't happen overnight, Alison has a lot of bad memories that haunt her I'm afraid…"

Belle's eyes had a mixture of hope but nervousness as the shower turned off. Snow White waited before hearing the door to the bathroom open. There were the light sounds of footsteps coming to the bedroom and Autumn could be seen her hair soaking wet and wearing the same clothes she had been wearing before. Snow White looked concerned as Autumn's skin was ashy white and was shivering slightly. Alison crawled over to the bed and Belle followed. She sat on the bed as Alison got her pj's from underneath the pillow. Belle didn't say anything but Snow said, "Cold showers could get you really sick, Alison."

"You shouldn't get too used to using that name. People don't know it," mumbled Autumn and Snow said gently, "It's only just the three of us, and I feel like you only use Autumn begrudgingly."

Autumn didn't comment, but looked down at the clothes. Snow White frowned a bit but then smiled. Standing up, Snow White said, "Well, I should be getting back home. Will you be at school tomorrow?"

Autumn nodded, but said nothing more on that. Snow White exchanged looks with Belle and left the room. Alison stared down at her clothes deep in thought. Belle was unsure of what to say when Alison said, "I don't know what to do…"

"Do? To do about what?" Belle asked and Alison looked at her frowning. She didn't saying anything to her at first but just as Belle sighed softly, she spoke, "I don't know what to do about secrets. I feel like they're everywhere."

Belle leaned over and hesitantly pushed back her wet hair. She was a little surprised to find her hair was icy cold. Belle then watched the young girl stare in deep contemplation and Belle said, "Then maybe it's time that those secrets come to light."

"Yeah but it's not like it's as easy as one, two, three," Alison said shifting, "These things are really complicated."

"That's when you need to be brave and face them," Belle said taking a gentle hold on Alison's shoulders, "Believe me, I would know. Rumple is not always so open…"

Alison couldn't help but smile as she met Belle's gaze. Belle smiled back and then found herself bursting out laughing as Alison said, "I hope you realize that this makes you Grandma if you get married."

"Don't make me feel so old," Belle said, "I lived twenty eight years in prison and I'd rather not remember it."

Alison smiled faded as a serious look overcame her face. She then looked at Belle saying, "Is it wrong to want to undo what I did to Kathryn?"

"No," Belle said immediately, "You love Kathryn and she loves you."

Alison made a face and said, "But it would be selfish of me to undo that. Then slowly the potion would stop taking effect, and everyone would start to remember…"

"I wouldn't call it selfish," Belle said after a few moments of thinking, "I think it was selfish that the other Mage's ordered you to do it. I mean, they took away Kathryn's memories of a choice she made. I know what it's like to not be given a choice…"

Belle looked thoughtful and said, "I think Rumpelstiltskin was the first to ever give me that…"

"Well, I'm glad you think that of me, dearest. I would have begged to disagree."

"Rumple," Belle looked back to see Gold walk in. Alison noticed that he wasn't happy and said hesitantly, "What happened?"

"Belle, can you leave us for a while?" Gold said, "I need to talk to her alone."

"Rumple," Belle said, her voice sounding disapproving.

"I will fill you in soon," Gold said, kiss her cheek, "Please."

"Fine. I will go get dinner started," Belle said, leaving them alone. Alison looked nervous as Gold sat on the bed. Pushing her hair back, Gold frowned as he said, "You're freezing."

"What happened?" Alison asked.

"Miss Swan found out something important about this situation with your father," Gold said, pulling out the piece of paper, "Look at the signature of who gave you over to the foster system."

"My mother?" Autumn's voice sounded confused as Gold shook his head. Taking the piece of paper, Autumn unfolded it.

"No," Gold said, "The story that was told to you was a lie."

Autumn stared at the paper and blinked. Gasping, Autumn stared at it wide eyed as she said, "The Snow Queen- but how-?"

"That's what I'm hoping for you to tell me," Gold said, "Your father told Miss Swan that he found your blood all over his back porch after Morgana attacked it. He thinks you are dead."

"She didn't attack me," Autumn said, "I don't remember her doing that."

"But why would she be there? She's been here in Storybrooke," Gold said, frowning.

Autumn stared at the paper and said, "Unless she wasn't the Morgana from present day…"

"What are you saying?"

"When I was fighting the last battle with Cora, the Snow Queen was there," Alison said, "The two had teamed up for whatever the reason. When I came back up the rabbit hole, she must have followed after the Inferno Spell that Cora sent after me."

"Why would she do that?"

"So she wouldn't look responsible for a fellow dead Mage?" Alison suggested, "I don't really know. Did she tell Dad?"

"About you?" Gold said, "No she didn't. Ryaden also came by to tell us that Morgana has gone missing."

"What?!" Autumn's voice sounded stricken, "You don't think-?!"

"I'm not sure," Gold said. Autumn went to dash off the bed as he hooked his arm around her waist. Pulling her back into his lap, Gold said, "Let me deal with it."

"You don't know Ryaden! If Dad really took her, he's going to be in so much trouble!"

"Which is why I will deal with it," Gold said, "I want you to lay low until we have this sorted out. We already have to deal with this woman with anti-magic, we can't be having them cause an all-out war with your father over this."

Turning her to face him, Gold cradled her in his arms. Alison bit her lip as Gold whispered, "Promise me you'll let me deal with this."

Alison looked up at him before nodding softly. Gold kissed the top of her head before tightening his hug saying, "Thank you."


"Open up!"

Regina walked to the door, smirking. His voice sounded quite livid, as she expected. Although she hadn't thought he would have the guts to confront her here, Regina wasn't surprised with the anger in his voice. Rubbing her fingers together on one hand, Regina felt the magic build up around the fingers. Opening the door with her free hand, Regina looked into Dr. Whale's face and said, "Can I help you?"

"That smirk," Dr. Whale said, the look on his face dark, "Is not going to last forever!"

"What?" Regina said mockingly, "Now you're going to kill me?"

"Oh eventually," Dr. Whale said his tone matching his emotions, "But first I'll watch you suffer, agonizingly."

"Listening to you has been enough agonizing torture for the past twenty eight years," Regina said, pushing him back. In doing so she clapped her hands together in attempts to use her magic. However, she immediately felt the magic die. Staring at her hands in confusion, Regina suddenly looked up to see Whale smirking. He lifted his hand to have electricity shot from it briefly. Regina gasped and backed up looking horrified. Whale said darkly, "Sucks to be the powerless one, doesn't it?!"

Regina found herself blasted back into the house. The door slammed shut, blocking one of her escape routes. Dr. Whale grabbed her by the shoulder and pinned her to the house saying, "Sayonara, Majesty."

"PUT YOUR HANDS OVER YOUR HEAD!"

Dr. Whale froze and let her go. His smirk died away as he backed up. Emma kept her gun raised as Charming ran over to check him. His deputy badge caught the attention of both Dr. Whale and Mayor Regina. Once he was sure he had no weapons, Charming looked at Whale angrily and said, "And just what did you think killing her was going to accomplish, Whale?"

"Justice," Dr. Whale said, proudly, "And you have no proof I was trying to kill her."

"No, but I definitely have enough for assault," Charming said and Whale shot back, "You'll find that the lady shoved me first. Isn't that right Regina?"

Regina nodded tersely and said, mockingly, "After he threatened to torture me."

"That's enough," Emma said, walking over to them. She put the gun down and said, "Both of you are coming down to the station-!"

"There is no need," Regina said, straightening up, "We're done. Right, Dr. Whale?"

Dr. Whale nodded and back away saying, "Indeed we are."

Emma gritted her teeth as Regina went inside the house with a rigid demeanor. Dr. Whale went to walk away and Charming said, "I'm making a warning to you now. If you even come back here without her permission, I'll arrest you for trespassing."

Dr. Whale refrained from rolling his eyes and just walked away with almost a strut. Charming was beyond pissed and Emma just as frustrated. Charming looked back at Emma and said, "Why do I feel like something more just happened here?"

"Oh, it did," Emma said forebodingly, "We're dealing with the Evil Queen after all. We're just going to have to wait to deal with this. We have a Snow Queen to find."


"MAGES!"

Tzila shot up in her bed at the sound and Ryaden groaned. She looked down at him and shook him anything but gently saying, "Ryaden!"

"Mhh, what?" he grumbled and they heard Sage yelling downstairs. Ryaden shot up and said, pulling on his shoes, "Tzila stay up here."

"Ryaden-!" Tzila said exasperated. Ryaden shot her a look and said, "Just stay! We don't know what it is!"

Ryaden found himself running down the stairs to see Sage standing in the middle of the main room. He saw immediately what he was seeing. A message written in red letters awaited them on one of the walls.

"Release the bond on your prisoner and we will release ours."

"You don't think," Sage said, slowly.

"Yes," Ryaden said lowly, "Yes I do."


Baelfire heard the knock on the door.

He was up in his office, unpacking books and other things. Raising his brows, Baelfire said, "Vespera, who is that?"

"I believe it is the Storybrooke door," the female voice said smoothly, "It appears to be a blonde haired woman."

"Emma, right on time," Baelfire said, putting the books down on his desk, "Thank you Vespera."

Baelfire walked down the stairs. Walking over to the main doors, Baelfire opened up the door to reveal Emma Swan.

"Emma," Baelfire said, "What a pleasant surprise."

"I wish it was," Emma said, "May I come in?"

"Sure," Baelfire said, "pardon any mess, I've been organizing my chaos."

"Believe me, I get it," Emma said, "Moving is awfully messy."

"You're telling me," Baelfire said, "So, what can I do for you sheriff?"

"Business, I'm afraid," Emma said, "Someone went missing."

"Oh?" Baelfire said, raising his brows, "Who?"

"The Snow Queen," Emma said.

Baelfire froze a moment, watching her with questioning eyes. He finally vocalized his concern as he asked, "The Snow Queen? I thought she was sent to prison?"

"Me too. But the Mages came to your father and I last night, saying she had disappeared."

"And let me guess, they're accusing me of kidnapping," Baelfire said testily.

"I'm sorry," Emma said, guiltily, "But wher-?"

"I was here with August Booth for a majority of the night. We got dinner at Granny's about 9pm and spent time at the docks after. We didn't get back until about 11pm."

Baelfire leaned against the railing to the stairs, arms crossed. Emma watched him before asking, "I know you have a beef with her. But why would they immediately accuse you?"

"Because there is a beef with me and the Mages over a matter unrelated to the Snow Queen," Baelfire said darkly, "And we will leave it at that."

"Baelfire," Emma said, "I'm just trying-!"

"To help, I know," Baelfire said, "But no matter what you say to them, it's not going to stop them from showing up here later."

"Over my dead body," Emma said angrily, but Baelfire waved his hand.

"No, no I want something different from you," Baelfire said, "Autumn, your kid's friend. How well do you know her?"

Emma paused, watching him a moment. Baelfire raised his brows as Emma said slowly, "She's the Mage of Wonderland. Which I'm guessing you already knew."

"Of course," Baelfire said, "How is her relationship with the other mages?"

"Better than yours."

Emma jumped as Baelfire narrowed his eyes. There was a flurry of smoke and Ryaden appeared, looking livid. Baelfire's expression darkened as Ryaden stepped forward.

"Ryaden," Emma said, "I said I would handle it."

"Sorry but when we Mage's get a threatening note painted on our walls, I'm done waiting," Ryaden growled.

"So you automatically assume it's me," Baelfire said shortly.

"Considering what it said, yeah," Ryaden said rudely, "I do."

"What did the note say?" Emma asked immediately.

"It's none of your business," Ryaden said heatedly.

"It is my business!" Emma snapped, "You Mages were the ones saying we needed to work together. If you start unraveling any more than you already are, everyone is already screwed."

Ryaden glowered at her as he growled, "We don't need his help."

"Clearly we need all the help we can get because someone had the galls to break into your manor and leave a threatening message," Baelfire interrupted, arms crossed.

Ryaden growled but didn't say anymore. Emma finally asked again, "What did the message say?"

There was a crash.

It shook the house, making things rattle. Baelfire narrowed his eyes as Emma and Ryaden looked around wildly.

"What the-?"

The window shattered, a blur rushing into the house. Baelfire, Emma, and Ryaden ducked, as the dark shadow jumped everywhere. Emma grabbed her gun as Ryaden snarled, "That will be no use!"

"Then do you have a better idea?" hollered Emma, before shrieking as another window broke. Ryaden flung his hand up, a whip cracking in the air. However, the shadow knocked into his leg, causing him to collapse to the floor. Baelfire watched as the shadow stopped bouncing and looked towards Baelfire. Baelfire's eyes widened a bit as a boyish laughter echoed.

"What is that?" Emma asked terrified.

"A shadow," Ryaden growled, getting up, "More specifically Pan's shadow."

"Vespera," Baelfire said, "Isolate it."

"Understood."

Electricity shot from the corners towards the shadow. It screeched as the shadow was being cornered by the shots. Emma watched with wide eyes as Baelfire opened a drawer to a table. The shadow flew into it to hide from the attack. Baelfire slammed the drawer shut and locked it up. Ryaden scowled as Emma said, "What in the world-?"

"His Anti-Magic system," Ryaden said gruffly, "Protects this moving house of his."

Emma looked surprise as Baelfire said, "Well, that's a shadow I haven't seen in a long time. I suppose that you will be blaming me for this too."

Ryaden made a face as Baelfire glared at him in response. Emma, seeing the tension between the two, got between them saying, "Look. I don't think blaming each other is the course of action. ESPECIALLY considering that there is another investigation that needs your attention."

Ryaden gave her a murderous glare as Baelfire raised his brows. None of them spoke for a while, just staring at each other in silence. Finally, Ryaden seemed to relent as he said, "The message said Release the bond on your prisoner and we will release ours. If you want to clear your name, you better find out who is behind this."

Ryaden disappeared, leaving Emma and Baelfire alone. Baelfire looked towards Emma with questioning eyes. Emma had questions of her own as she turned towards him.

"What is your history with these people?" Emma asked, hands on her hips, "And what did he mean by moving house? What is this place?

Baelfire grinned a bit before saying, "Lots of questions I see. Vespera, show Miss Swan what he meant by moving house."

"Certainly. Hello Miss Swan." The voice spoke smoothly. Emma looked around and gasped as she watched a whole wall of the house disappear to show different scenes. A busy city, a peaceful town, many scenes passed before her as Vespera said, "The authors house is one of two homes that move throughout it's given realm. Both are opposing sides of the same coin. One is powered by Magic while the other is powered by Anti-magic. This home is currently connected to five different doors."

"Connected to five different doors," Emma said, "So does that mean-?"

"There are five different places this house can be," Baelfire said, "Right now, my home is stationed to this town."

"So… wait. I could open this door and we would be somewhere else."

"Normally yes," Baelfire said, "However, with the anti-magic shield currently around this town, it's been malfunctioning a bit."

"But… if yours is the anti-magic house," Emma asked warily, "Why wouldn't it work?"

"Because the type of anti-magic it is," Baelfire said, "My house and this shield is behaving like two magnets with the same pole. They're repelling one another. Unfortunately for me, the anti-magic shield around this town is stronger than the one that powers the door."

"That…I'm not going to try and make sense of that," Emma said, "Is this why the Mages think your responsible for the shield?"

"Partially," Baelfire said, "But my other issues with the mages is not your concern. The things that are stolen from them are."

"Wait, wait," Emma asked, frowning, "How do you even know about that?"

Baelfire flicked out a pen as he said simply, "Because I'm the author. I'm supposed to know these things."

Baelfire watched as the scenes changed back into a normal wall. Beckoning, he walked up the stairs and Emma followed. They went up to the third story where his office was. They entered the room as Baelfire sat in his chair. Emma was watching him warily as she asked, "So, what, you just magically know these stories?"

"The job as the author has been passed down from writer to writer," Baelfire said, "We all have different stories but the same purpose: to observe and to record. The author before me was Charles Kinsleigh. Some of us are more well known while others subtly do Fate's task from the shadow."

"Fate-you talk about it like it's a person," Emma said, frowning.

"Fate is Fate," Baelfire said, dismissively. Emma sighed, looking exasperated as she asked, "Okay, so if you know what is happening, who is doing this?"

Baelfire inhaled sharply as he said, "I can't tell you that."

"Why not?"

"It breaks an unbreakable rule," Baelfire said, "I'm not allowed to interfere with a story, just guide."

"Really?" Emma said, irritated.

"Really," Baelfire said, "Those who interfere are punished severely and swiftly. One author was actually imprisoned in his own story book, damned to exist in the horror he created."

"So how do you know when you are interfering though," Emma asked, "I mean, you imprisoned that-that shadow-!"

"Because he attacked me in my home," Baelfire said before tapping his head, "Also, I just know."

"You know," Emma said, flatly, "That is the lamest explanation ever."

"The only explanation ever," Baelfire said, "But I will tell you this, and it's only because it draws from my experience with him as a lost boy and not the author."

Baelfire leaned forward, "If Peter Pan is what she stole from Neverland, the only thing he could want freed is the only thing he cherished."

"His childhood?" Emma asked sarcastically.

"The Darlings," Baelfire said frustrated, "You're not much for fairytales, are you?"

"I'm more of a realistic kind of girl," Emma said.

"You'd be surprised what realism can include," grinned Baelfire.

"How will knowing about the Darlings help me?" Emma said, "Wouldn't they be gone?"

Baelfire smiled and Emma sighed.

"You can't tell me anymore, can you?"

"Only that my father will have the answers your looking for."

"Wonderful," Emma groaned, "Thanks for the hint."

Emma turned and went to walk away. Baelfire looked curious, leaning forward in his chair. Wringing his hands, Baelfire said, "Emma."

"Mmm?" Emma looked back at him.

"What did you mean by they have their own investigation to look into?"

Emma breathed in deep as she watched him cautiously. Baelfire stared at her intently as she said, "According to the Mages, Autumn went missing off their radar years ago. We think Morgana had something to do with it."

Baelfire raised his brows as he said, "Oh really?"

"Yeah," Emma said.

"Is that all?"

Emma had a wry smile as she said, "If you want to know more, you should really ask your father."

Baelfire scoffed but said, "I suppose I deserve that. See you around Emma."

Emma nodded before disappearing. Baelfire frowned deeply as he turned himself towards a mirror. Walking towards it, he tapped the rim saying, "Show me the Mage of Wonderland."

The mirror clouded but nothing more could be seen. Frowning deeply, Baelfire tapped the rim again. Nothing changed.

"Creator… it does not appear to be working."

"No, it's not," Baelfire said, brows furrowed, "That hasn't happened for years…"

"Five years to be exact, Creator."

Baelfire inhaled sharply. Clenching his hand, Baelfire's look darkened. Tapping the mirror hard, Baelfire growled, "Show me Ryaden."

The image appeared, showing Ryaden talking heatedly with Jane. Baelfire watched as the two argued, Jane looking desperate as Ryaden spoke angrily in return. What in the world was going on?


"Your son is just as cryptic as you."

Gold sighed as Emma came into his shop. Turning to face her, Gold said, "Was he able to tell you anything?"

"Yeah, just as we got attacked by a shadow," Emma said, heckled.

"Is he alright?" Gold asked, concerned.

"Yeah, he locked the shadow in a drawer," Emma said, stopping at his desk, "Ryaden and him also got into it just before. Someone left a message at the manor saying, 'Release your prisoner and we will release ours' or something like that. They thought it had something to do with him."

Gold looked tense as Emma said quickly, "Fortunately, the most likely contender for whoever did it was the owner of the shadow. So he'll be fine."

"For now," growled Gold, "Who does the shadow belong to?"

"Peter Pan," Emma said.

Gold's look darkened as Emma looked nervous. Tapping her fingers, Emma asked, "I'm guessing you know him?"

"All too well," Gold said, "If he is under the influence of anti-magic, then that makes him even more dangerous."

"Even more dangerous?" Emma said, "I thought he was a good guy."

"He is neither good nor evil," Gold said, "He does whatever he pleases, regardless of who he hurts. I think the more important question is right now, what 'prisoner' is he referring to?"

"Baelfire said something about the Darlings?" Emma said, "And that you would know?"

"I do," Gold said, frowning deeply, "The Mage of Neverland is the last Darling I know of. But last I checked, she wasn't a prisoner."

"So we are at a dead end."

"Not quite," Gold said, testily. Waving his hand, a bottle and a glove appeared on the counter. Emma stared at it as he said, "This belonged to Morgana. In this bottle is a locating spell. Pour it on her glove and it should led you right to her."

"What are you going to do?

"Investigate the message," Gold said, "The Mages are hiding something. I'm intended to figure out what."

Emma nodded as she took the bottle and glove. Leaving Gold, Emma shut the door behind her. Gold frowned deeply. Closing his eyes, he focused on his intended target. Opening his eyes, he found himself entirely in a different room.

"Jane."

Jane jumped out of her skin, knocking over a few bottles on her table. Gold watched her as she sighed and turned to face him.

"Geez, Croc. How did you even get in here?"

"I have my ways," Gold said, "I assume you know about Peter?"

"Yeah, Ryaden just came in here and blew his horn about it," Jane muttered.

"I heard about the message," Gold said walking towards her, "The one asking to 'release' the mages prisoner to get Morgana back."

Jane made a face, looking rather put out. Gold's expression showed small traces of concern as he said, "Jane, are you being imprisoned here?"

"I've been imprisoned here," Jane sighed, "For the past eleven years."

"eleven years?!" Gold looked stricken, "What in the hell happened?"

"Well, I didn't think you would get all hot and bothered over little old me, Croc," Jane said, half joking.

"What happened?"

Jane sighed miserably as she muttered, "I wish I could tell you."

Gold narrowed his eyes as Jane hissed. A mark glowed on her throat, making her rub it timidly. Gold walked towards her as he said, "That is the Master's spell work. Where is the old wretch?"

"Still missing," Jane said, miserable, "He went to Wonderland in hopes to find out what was stolen. Something attacked him as he tried to return."

"Why in the world would he confine you of all people?" Gold said, "You were one of his Goody Mages."

"Hey, I resent that statement," Jane huffed, "I can't tell you why. I will say that even if any of the other mages wanted to release me, they couldn't. Not yet."

"I'm not the other mages," Gold said heckled.

"Don't," Jane said, her voice urgent, "Gold… you have more pressing concerns than me."

"Yes, we do," Gold said, "Why are they accusing my son of writing the message?"

"Because he and I used to work together," Jane said, exasperated, "Before I got locked up in here, we had teamed up to try and find Peter."

There was a loud door slam. Jane looked nervously over her shoulder as Gold's frown deepened.

"Look, if you can find Morgana, it will clear him," Jane said, desperately, "So please. Find her. And take care of Alison, please. There are Mages here that are demanding that she be here too."

"Over my dead body," Gold said, "Don't think I've given up on this."

Gold opened his eyes in his shop, staring into the emptiness. Someone touched his arm and he looked to his side. Belle looked at him worried as Gold sighed.

"I fear this mysterious Anti-Magic user is not the only thing we have to worry about," Gold said, staring a Belle worried.


"Come on this way."

Charming, Red, and Emma followed the floating glove through the tunnel. Flashing the flashlight, Emma said, "I feel like we are walking into a trap."

"We'll handle anything that comes out way," Charming said, hand on the handle of his gun, "Let's just get in and out."

Emma grimaced at followed the glove. It floated around the corner and into an open space. Emma turned the corner and saw the scene before her.

Morgana was tied to a chair, her eyes covered and her lip and chin bruised. Charming walked forward, untying the woman, taking of the blindfold, and helping her to her feet. The Mage seemed out of it, her body semi limp and her eyes half closed. Emma looked wildly around as she said, "No one is here."

"Let's take her and get out of here then," Red said, holding the crossbow tightly, "Before-!"

There was a female laughter.

Everyone froze as they looked around. Emma gripped her gun tightly as she heard the laughter ring around them. It was a while until someone spoke.

"Well, well," the female voice said, "It seems the supposed heroes were sent to do the Mages dirty work."

"Dirty work?" Red asked.

"Who are you?!" Emma said, "And why are you doing this?"

"All in good time Savior. But you best hurry, or you'll be buried long before you find out Pan's next target."

The cavern began to shake as the three-looked stricken. Emma grabbed Morgana's other side as she screamed, "We need to get out of here!"

The three ran, which was hard considering they were dragging a half-conscious woman along with them. Rocks fell as they fled the tunnel, hitting them at all angles. Emma fell as they reached the forest outside the tunnel, watching as the tunnel collapsed on itself. There was a young boy's laughter, echoing in the forest as the wind picked up. Morgana moaned softly, completely unconscious now as Charming said, "I've got a bad feeling about this."

"We need to get back into town," Red said, wiping the blood from her chin, "Lock this witch up until the Mages tell us what the hell is going on!?"

"Agreed," Emma said, getting to her feet, "Let's go."


"So, don't forget you have your tests tomorrow," Snow White said, as the class gathered their things up, "And make sure to give the flyers to your parents!"

Alison packed up her bag, her hair falling down around her face. It was pushed back out of her face with clips today, her blue eyes sparkling strangely. Snow watched her for a moment and then went to pack her own things up. It wasn't surprising she was acting strange. Her father that was supposed to be dead, was no longer dead and suspected of kidnapping the Mage of Snow. That would ruin anyone's mood.

Henry and Paige walked by Alison and said, "Let's go get Ava and Nicholas; they should be down by the lunch hall."

"Okay," Alison said, distractedly. Slinging her backpack over her shoulder, Alison followed her two friends out. Henry and Paige were jabbering on about the test tomorrow but Alison had other things on her mind. Gold had left early this morning without so much of a goodbye. Belle had been quiet too this morning and she hadn't been able to find her dad before school. She hoped he didn't do anything horrific, she couldn't lose him again. They made it into the cafeteria when she felt someone crash into her. Falling to the ground, she saw Ava right by her groaning in almost a whimper. Alison found herself getting to her feet. Henry and Paige were down by Nicholas, looking horrified at the scene in front of her. Gage stood there, electricity shooting out of him. Alarm went through Alison's body as she dropped her bag to the floor. He snickered as he taunted, "What? Ready to get a beating like your friends?"

Alison scoffed and said, "Go figures that you would be Peter Pan. Such a shame, I was actually looking forward to a fight."

"He's Peter Pan?!" Henry said, obviously shocked. Alison barely spared him a look; she was too busy watching Peter. Nicholas and Grace watched the two of them nervously.

"And a fight is what you'll get," Peter said boastfully, "A fight is what this whole town will get!"

Peter flew up onto one of the tables with frightening speed and Alison immediately went into stance. Alison then said, seriously, "I doubt you could take this whole town Peter."

"Who said me fighting the town!?" Peter boasted, "You may just find that your potion doesn't protect everyone from being infected by Anti-Magic!"

Alison's stomach lurched as she heard his statement, but she didn't let it show. Instead, Alison said, "We'll just see about that, Mr. Blabbermouth. Well what are you waiting for? Get it over with!"

"Alison!" Henry said stricken. What was she doing? Peter sneered and electricity built up around him. Pulling out a knife, Peter flew at her. Alison suddenly clapped her hands quickly and separated her hands. His electricity shot at her and Alison suddenly caught it in a sling of midnight blue magic. He looked surprised and found himself flying backward from her rebounding it back. Alison didn't dare pull out a weapon in case someone came in. Instead she allowed the midnight blue magic to surround her hand. Ava had managed to get to her feet and gone by Henry. Alison glanced at them and said, "What a surprise, the Anti-Magic doesn't pack a punch."

"What is she doing!?" Nicholas hissed and Ava said, "Sh! Just watch."

Peter then grinned sadistically and said, "You haven't seen anything yet, witch!"

"I am not a witch," Alison said crossly, "I am a Mage. The Mage of Wonderland."

Peter's emotion flickered on his face, which made Autumn curious. Tilting his head as he straightened up, he said dangerously, "Why do you look so much like her?!"

"What-?!" Alison had to flinger her hands out as he attacked her with both danger and Anti-Magic. She found herself skidding back unharmed on the tile floor of the cafeteria. Peter Pan glared at her, like she had done something offensive. Alison narrowed her eyes and said, "Alright, enough chatting!"

"I will do what I want!" Peter snapped, shooting more anti-magic at her only to have her gathering again in the blue magic. He then attacked her before she could properly shoot it. It crashed into the doors as Ava and the others ducked down. The tables flipped over and Alison struck out, sending him skidding across the cafeteria. She grasped her arm briefly, feeling pain shot throughout it. Peter didn't notice her action and flew back onto one of the tables. Alison said, "You're going to lose Peter. Anti-Magic is not agreeing with you. Aging is not agreeing with you."

"SHUT UP!" Peter flew more electricity at her and Alison suddenly grabbed it with one hand. She diminished it and her own lightning blue electricity formed into a ball with magic hiding within. She glanced at Peter and said, "You're talking to the Mage of Wonderland. You can ask anyone I am not known for losing and I'm not losing to the likes of you!"

"Don't act cocky, a whiny tattle tale like you won't win!" Peter screamed, "I can't stand people like you!"

The Anti-Magic rose in pressure as he attacked Alison. But Alison kept deflecting as he shouted at her, "Relying on others to fight your battles! If you want something done, do it yourself!"

"Couldn't have said it better myself!" Alison flung the rising Anti-Magic back at him. Peter screamed as he went flying to the ground. Alison had nearly flown over to him, pinning him down. She then pulled a rose from her pocket. It was white and thornless. She then positioned the stem over his heart and said, "I hope this works."

"Autumn!"

Alison purposely ignored the outcry, stabbing his heart with the rose. Snow White watched on horrified after skidding to a stop. Peter gasped, struggling violently as thorns appeared on the stem. Peter snarled but Alison did not let of his wrists. The stem turned black with cracks of white in it. Soon the petals turned purple. Electricity crackled for a moment before diminishing. Alison let go of his hands as Peter ripped it out. He then scrambled over to the window, the dark aura around him gone. Instead he looked horrified as he watched them. Alison stood up as Snow White walked over to Peter saying, "Gage-Gage!"

But it was too late. Peter had flew out the window, panicking. Snow White ran over to the window and Alison said, "Leave him! He'll be fine; he's just confused at what is occurring."

Alison walked over to the rose as everyone watched her with wide eyes. She examined with a smile and said, "Well, I think we might have just found a way to remove the anti-magic."

"A-Anti-Magic?" Snow White said confused, "You mean-?"

"Gage is Peter Pan, the person that was stolen from Neverland," Alison said, holding the rose to her. She then walked over to her bag picking it up. She looked at the children and said, "Are you all alright?"

"Yeah," Nicholas said timidly even though his face told another story. Alison paid it no mind as she said, "I have to go report this to Tzila. I'll be back."

Alison walked out of the room as Snow White watched after her. The children had gotten to their feet and collected themselves. Ava watched after Autumn before saying, "Nicholas, head on home. Dad will get worried if one of us doesn't get home.

"Where are you going?" Nicholas asked and Ava said, "I'm going to make sure Autumn's okay. Don't worry I'll be home soon."

Ava hurried down the hallway, wondering where she went. It wasn't until she peered into a bathroom where Alison was talking to the mirror where Tzila and her bedroom could be seen. Her arm sleeve was rolled up to reveal a nasty blackish-purple bruise. Alison had placed wet paper towel on it when Tzila said, "I'll examine this rose in better detail immediately. Good job, Alison. Make sure to get that arm healed."

"I will," Alison said, dismissively. The image in the mirror disappeared as Alison bit her lip. Ava then walked closer to her. Alison looked over at Ava, staring childlike at her. Tapping the counter, Ava looked at Alison's reflection in the mirror and said, "So your dad…have you seen him yet?"

"No," Alison said disappointedly, "I haven't found him…"

Ava looked at her sadly as Alison rolled the sleeve down saying, "I'm just hoping he hasn't done anything bad, Regina's been enough of a hassle."

"I'm surprised she hasn't attacked us," Ava said, with concern.

"She already has, if my theory is correct," Alison said, "If she is responsible for the Anti-Magic like she's implied, then she's already attacked us through Peter."

"True," Ava said, leaning against the wall between the sinks as Alison threw the paper towel away. Ava watched Alison as she paused at the garbage. Turning to look at her friend, Alison said, "Peter said something weird….'why do you look so much like her?' Who was he talking about?"

"I don't know," Ava said honestly, "But it seemed to piss him off. Will he be infected with Anti-Magic still?"

"No, he shouldn't," Alison said, "But I don't know him to know his reaction. Only Jane or my dad would know…"

"Hey, kid!" Emma said relieved as Henry parted from his other two friends. They were outside the school as Grace and Nicholas parted ways. The short raven haired teacher stood by Emma, pulling her sweater closed. Snow White patted Emma's shoulder before walking back to the school. Henry made his way over to Emma hugging him saying, "Hey."

"Mary Margaret told me what happened," Emma said pushing his hair back, "Are you alright?"

"I am, he didn't even hurt me," Henry said, watching the scene around him. Emma frowned, wondering what was going through his head. It wasn't until they started walking home themselves when Henry elaborated what was on his mind.

"Peter said something strange," Henry said, "He said that the potion won't protect everyone from anti-magic like we thought it will…that a fight is what this town will get."

A deep swooping sensation went in Emma's stomach and said, "Well, I'll be sure to let the Mage's know that."

"If Alison didn't let them know already," Henry said, frowning. Emma nodded, but was now the one lost in thought. Henry looked up at her and grinned. He tapped her hard and said, "I'll race you to home!"

"Huh?" Emma watched as Henry raced to the corner. He stopped and said, "I bet you can't catch up!"

Emma grinned slowly and chased after him. Heading towards the other side of town, Ava and Alison walked towards home. Alison looked distracted as Ava looked nervous. She then said, softly, "Autumn? Can I ask you something?"

"Hmm? What?" Autumn asked and Ava said, "You were in the foster system right?"

"Yeah," Alison said, and Ava said, "The article…from a few months back. Was it true?"

Pain flickered on Alison's face and she gave an indignant look. But she nodded and Ava looked in deep thought. Ava then said as they turned the corner of the sidewalk, "So you couldn't find your dad. Did Gold talk to him?"

"No, he didn't," Alison said, kicking the pebbles on the side walk. They walked up to a simple yet nice one story house. Ava stopped by the old fence and said, "Here is my house. I'll see you tomorrow, alright?"

"Okay," Alison said and Ava hugged her firmly. Alison was surprised but hugged her back. Ava then let her go and said, with a grin, "Tomorrow will be a better day, I promise. Get that arm healed."

Ava ran through the opening and off to the house. Alison watched her go inside the house before heading off down the streets. The golden afternoon skies illuminated the world around her but she couldn't appreciate it for she was very lost in her thoughts. She was so lost in her thoughts that she barely felt herself walked into Gold's house and wander to her room. Sofronia was already sitting on her bed, waiting for her. Alison didn't even say anything as she walked over to her. Sofronia rolled up Alison's sleeve, frowning at the injury. Licking her arm, Sofronia didn't stop until the bruises completely disappeared. Alison wrinkled her nose as she said, "Your tongue still feels funny."

"Don't be unappreciative, Kitten," Sofronia chided, "I have news you will want to hear."

"What news?"

"Apparently, they found the Snow Witch," Sofronia said, "It seems that the person who attacked you, kidnapped her as well."

"I figured," Alison said.

"There is something else," Sofronia said, "Did you know that the Mage of Neverland is imprisoned in the Mages Manor?"

Alison looked shocked, staring wildly at Sofronia.

"What?! How?! Why?"

"I'm not sure," Sofronia said, "But she has been imprisoned for quite some time, I hear."

Alison looked confused, "But she just-! Sofronia-!"

"Do you want me to look into this, Kitten?"

"No, no, I will," Alison said distressed, "Keep watch on the town. I want to know if this anti-magic user makes another appearance."

"Understood, my kitten," Sofronia purred, kissing her cheek before leaving her alone. Alison looked around wildly. What in the world was happening in that manor?


"We need to talk!"

Ryaden puffed his cigar as he sat in the town hall, waiting for them. Charming stormed in with Emma following closely behind. Taking the cigar from his mouth, Ryaden said, "I see you found Morgana. It is much appreciated."

"Cut the crap," Emma snapped, "We nearly got crushed by a crazed woman who claimed we were doing your dirty work. Now what is going on?!"

"I'll explain," Ryaden said gruffly, "Once you all stop huffing in my face."

Emma glared as Gold walked over to them, his glare intensifying. Ryaden let out a long breath as he said, "We are confining Morgana to the manor until she wakes up. From there, we will question her further on why she would take the Mage of Wonderland away and hide her in the foster system."

"That's it?" Emma asked incredulously.

"That's all I can do currently," Ryaden said, "She is still unconscious, and we need answers just as badly as you do."

"So you tend to the wicked and leave one of your own imprisoned," Gold said coldly.

Charming and Emma looked confused as Ryaden narrowed his eyes. Standing up, Ryaden flicked his cigar while saying, "I shouldn't be surprised you would have found out. We have no choice to leave Jane imprisoned. The Master is the one who cast the spell. Only he can undo it."

"And why would he do that?" Gold said.

"I wish I could say," Ryaden grumbled, "And it's completely an unrelated issue."

"I beg to differ."

Everyone froze. Emma whipped around to see Baelfire standing in the doorway. His face was angry, angrier than she had ever seen. Gold whirled around, his eyes wide as Charming looked on warily. Gold watched, as if he couldn't believe he was there.

"Bae…"

Baelfire paid him no mind as August appeared behind him. He looked wild, as if he couldn't believe what was happening. Baelfire glowered, walking over to Ryaden as Emma felt dread fill her heart. Baelfire spoke again, his voice cold.

"You know, I tried to check in on the Mage of Wonderland," Baelfire's voice raised, "Much to my surprise, the mirror wouldn't show me where she was. Now you and I both know that would only happen for one reason, for one person!"

Ryaden watched him patiently before saying, "Go ahead. Ask me what you want to ask."

"Baelfire," Emma tried to talk only to be silenced by his glare. His attention turned back to Ryaden as he asked, "What is her name? Her real name!"

Ryaden paused, snuffing out his cigar before saying, "Alison Marie Kinsleigh."

Baelfire lunged so fast no one had time to react. Bae's fist met Ryaden's face, a crack sounding in the air. Ryaden was slammed into the wall as Baelfire bellowed, "YOU TOLD ME SHE WAS DEAD!"

"She was," Ryaden groaned, "We all thought she was-!"

Baelfire punched him again, rage fueling him. Emma and Charming rushed forward, grabbing him and pulling him off Ryaden. Ryaden stood, watching Baelfire with an empty expression. Baelfire yanked his arms away as he snarled, "These past few weeks, you've known she was here! You knew she was alive and you left me in the dark! All this time, you knew she had become the Mage of Wonderland and you never said a damn word-!"

"We were hoping we'd never have to," Ryaden said gruffly, rubbing his jaw, "As to why we didn't tell you, we didn't think we could trust you. Considering an Anti-Magic user was the one holding this town hostage. We couldn't be sure it wasn't you."

"Screw you," Baelfire thundered, "You blame me and you're the ones that let Morgana hide here all this damn time!"

"Baelfire that is enough!" Emma shouted, "This isn't getting us anywhere."

"Stay out of this!" Baelfire bellowed.

"I will not!" snarled Emma, "I am standing here telling you to stow it because there is a ten-year-old girl who thought her father was dead for the past five years. A ten-year-old girl who was attacked by this mysterious ally to Regina and had to fend off Peter Pan while you all are all bickering like children!"

Everyone was silent as Baelfire stared at Emma with wide eyes. Even Gold was struck mute. Emma stared between him and Ryaden fuming.

"I may not get what exactly is between you and the Mages," Emma said heatedly, "But I do get the girl that spent all night crying in your father's arms because everything she knew from the past five years was a lie. She had to fight Pan by herself because this person had us all distracted with your issues! Who knows what could have happened today had she not been able to handle Pan?!"

Baelfire almost choked on that. Gritting his teeth, he watched Emma stare him down fiercely. Ryaden made a face, scoffing as he said, "Pan's nothing compared to the anklebiter. You severely underestimate the kid, Swan."

"I don't care," Emma said, viciously, "I protect that kid like she is my own. I don't care what she is capable of."

Ryaden scoffed again but softened. Waving his hand, Ryaden said, "You've made your point. We'll talk more in the morning."

Ryaden disappeared, leaving them in the room. Baelfire looked as if he was still ready for a fight when August came up and grabbed his shoulder saying, "Baelfire-!"

Baelfire yanked his shoulder away, storming out of the room. August raced after him, obviously worried. Gold sighed heavily as he said, "I need to go check on Alison. Make sure she is alright."

"Do that."

Gold disappeared, leaving Emma and Charming alone. Charming looked exasperated as he said, "Well that was explosive. Do you really think Gold's son is trustworthy?"

"I think he's a good man," Emma sighed, "He's just upset. He spent the last five years thinking his kid was murdered. I wouldn't even be surprised if he did come here to seek revenge on Snow Queen. I probably would have too."

"Do you think the Mages will work together with him?"

"I think they don't have a choice," Emma said seriously, "This ally of Regina's is dangerous and right now they have the upper hand."


Peter landed outside the window, staring. Reaching down, he opened the window with some difficulty. The room he then entered was full of shadows, full of covered furniture. Walking lightly across the floor, Peter looked frantic. He had to get out of here, before this world completely poisoned him. Grabbing at books in the large book shelf built into the wall, Peter looked at each cover before tossing them to the floor. He was so busy that he did not notice the woman sitting in the corner of the room. Her hair was piled on top of her head, dark brown curls falling down to her slender shoulders. Her tight bodice was pure velvet black and her skirt had many slits in them to reveal pants with thigh high boots. Her sleeves were silk and danced around her arms. Leaning back, her voice said, sweet like honey, "Hello Peter."

Peter spun around, his eyes wide. Pulling out the knife, Peter said with bravery he could barely muster, "Get away from me witch!"

The woman stood up, an impassive look crossing her face. Her aura was frighteningly overpowering and her eyes were quite deceiving: soft and gentle. She walked over to him with such a slow pace saying, "You've been quite the horrible boy. My instructions were simple: take as many as you can but leave the child Mage. But you did not listen to me and now you are no longer any use. Why did you disobey me Peter?"

"It's not disobedience if I didn't choose you!" Peter flung his knife at her but she lifted her hand to stop the knife. It turned to dust in her hand as she sighed saying, "Now my plan must be altered, I can't risk the Mages knowing just yet who I am."

"The Mages will beat you," Peter Pan said putting his hands behind his back. The woman narrowed her eyes slightly but said, "That remains to be seen. But it is of no consequence. Now I will dispose of you."

She suddenly grabbed him, shocking him with Anti-Magic. He screamed as the white sheet fell from a mirror. She then stared at him sympathetically and said, "I will not leave bad deeds unpunished. Goodbye Peter."

She then pushed him through the mirror, leaving her alone in the room. Turning back around, she gracefully moved her hand. The sheet returned to its original place as she walked to the window. Storybrooke could be seen but it was bellow, like she was in the hills. Smiling softly, she said, "I'm coming for you, Sweetheart."

She then had a serious expression cross her face as she said sharply, "Glinda, you're next."

~Storybook~

"So are you ready?"

Alison looked up at Jack, a warm coat covering her. Hatter was pulling on gloves as the March Hare in his very much rabbit form hopped around him. Alison nodded and Sofronia kissed her cheeks saying, "Come back strong, my kitten."

Alison nodded as the woman backed away. Jack went over and put an arm around her saying, "Alright, we are going on a little trip. I need you to close your eyes and hold onto me."

Alison slipped her arms around his neck, locking her hands together. Jack then extended his hand saying, "All coming with me grasp my hand. We're leaving now."

Hatter grasped Jack's hand, his face unpleasant. The March Hare jumped up, grabbing onto Jack's hand and they were instantly surrounded by snow, wind, and ice. Alison cringed as she felt the magic begin to overwhelm them. Jack gently squeezed him, kissing her forehead. In doing so, Alison felt some of the pressure release. Alison buried her face into his cloak as the wind increased. When the wind died down, Alison still didn't move. Jack rubbed her back and whispered, "We are here."

Alison peeked up while Jack chuckled. She gasped, looking around in awe at the scene before her. The home stood in front of them, standing tall in wonder. The walls were completely covered in snow and ice, the doors white and bright. The area around them had trees of silver and white and the sky was a blue. Hatter watched Jack lead Alison towards the castle and he followed. March Hare hopped quickly with him as Jack said, "Welcome to Antic. Come, I'll show you to your quarters."

They all walked into the hallway to find a very different picture. The walls were made of marble and dark wood. Jack led them up the stairs to a main living area with one big window and many couches and chairs. There was a dark fur rug in the middle of the room. Jack stopped and pointed to a bedroom door saying, "This will be your room. Alison's will be right through here. Settle in, I will return with Alison in a moment."

Jack went into the other room with her, and she looked around curiously. The wooden walls reminded her of a cabin and the rug in the middle of the floor was white. The bed was huge, the comforters many. Jack watched her look around and said, "Now that you're here, we shall begin the next step of your training. I'm warning you this is going to be much harder than before. This world will try and repress your magic. But with time, patience, and a little bit of fun, we'll get through this."

Alison nodded and flopped back on the bed. Staring up at the ceiling, Alison asked, "Who will be taking care of me? Jane isn't here anymore."

"No, she is not," Jack scowled, "the Mage of this world is not well liked, her personality is a little bit… cold."

Alison made a face and said, "Aren't most women?"

Jack raised his brows and said, "You really have mommy issue's, don't you?"

"I don't have a mom," Alison said simply, "I never knew her, so I don't love her. It's hard to hate someone you don't know."

"So why do you hate so much?" Jack asked, intrigued. Alison looked angry momentarily and said, "Because she made Daddy cry, she made him sad. That's why."

Jack nodded slowly and stroked her hair back. He then said grinning, "Well, just so you know. I wouldn't hate on women too much. You, after all, are a girl."

Alison stuck her tongue and Jack tweaked her nose saying, "I'd be careful. It's an icebox around here and you'll get that tongue stuck if you keep it out."

"Nahuh," Alison said, "And even if I did, you'd save me."

"Oh really," Jack said before tickling her sides, "Are you sure?"

"Yes, yes," Alison shrieked with laughter, struggled to get away, "Stop tickling!"

"Hmmm, nope," Jack said, and Alison squeaked. Jack couldn't help it any longer, he burst out laughing. Stopping his tickling, he found himself laughing into his hand. Alison stared at her teacher/friend and said, "What? Is there a tickle pixie in the room?"

"A tickle pixie?" Jack asked trying his hardest to keep from laughing, but failing miserably. The little girl sat up promptly. Alison nodded and said, "Yes, they are pixie's who go around when people start giggling as sprinkle dust. Daddy said…"

Alison stopped and then said, softly, "Nevermind…"

Jack finally stopped laughing, feeling the joy being sucked out of the room. Reality took its place as Alison's shoulder's slunk down. Jack then took her into his arms and said, "Don't worry, Alison. We'll get you home. I promise you."