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 he has given me, it is truly appreciated. So here is my very valentine themed chapter just in time for the holiday. Well, almost, things got in the way of my plan and the chapter was a long one to write. I hope you enjoy and please review!

Chapter Thirty Five: Run Rabbit Run

Alison traced the edges of the mirror, patiently watching the distant magic cloud the mirror. It spun around in wisps of fog, haunting and bewitching. Orchestrating her hand, Alison smoothly and slowly circled her hand around the mirror. The magic was pulsing through her, becoming more and more painful with every hand movement. Wincing, the Mage tried to maintain her concentration but failed on feeling the magic pricking her nerves. Waving her hand impatiently, Alison out a long heavy sigh. Her room was dark, the thick curtains being drawn. The only light that could be seen through the small opening in the curtain was of twilight. It had only been a few handfuls of hours since the rabbit hole had been closed. Tapping her fingers against the vanity, Alison stared into the mirror. Communication through space was difficult, even with a mirror. So many worlds existed and if there was no one on the other end to receive it, it would never go through properly.

Everyone was still sleeping. Even Belle, who was an early riser, was still sound asleep in her bedroom. Alison hadn't been able to sleep, events playing over and over in her mind. Clenching her hand, Alison felt a memory returning to mind. Screams could be heard, arguing; Alison felt her nails digging into the palm over her hand. Alison stared up at the wall, feeling the memory linger.

"Alison."

Alison blinked as she stared into the mirror. Tzila could be seen, sitting at her own vanity. She wore a high collared robe, her long hair in a messy braid. Tossing her hair back, Alison asked, "Did you get in contact?"

"No, but Ryaden was able to find where the rabbit hole went," Tzila said softly, "It went to Neverland."

"Good, at least it's a place both of them know," Alison said softly, "I'll keep trying."

"As will I," Tzila said softly, "Did Red tell you about Kathryn?"

"She didn't need to," Alison said, her voice tense, "I could feel it. My spell breaking. Do you think that's what the Enchantress wanted."

"She needs it broken, but for what I cannot say. How much longer do you think the curse itself will hold up?"

"About three months at the most," Alison said, "At the worst case scenario, we only have a month."

"I see," Tzila said sadly, "I'm sorry."

"Nothing can be done to change it," Alison said dismissively, "So put it out of your mind."

"Very well," Tzila said, her hand tapping her own vanity table lightly, "Are you alright?"

"No, it hurts," Alison said with gritted teeth, "My magic is hurting more."

"Have you looked outside yet?"

Alison narrowed her eyes and said, "No, why?"

"I think you need to," Tzila said seriously, "It will explain why that is."

Alison suddenly stood up and rushed to the window. Yanking the curtains back, Alison's figure went stone still.

Snow, ice, frost; It was like a winter wonderland covered Storybrooke. Her stomach swooped as she saw the scene before her. Alison furrowed her brows as she opened the lock on her window. Creaking it open, Alison was suddenly pushed back by a gust of wind. She fell back, hitting the floor with a loud thump. Scrambling to her feet, Alison pushed her window closed with a bit if a struggle. Snow had blown through the screen and into her room. Flying around unnaturally, Alison saw it circle around her. Suddenly her room got very warm and the snow sizzled out. Alison looked up to see Gold standing there looking irked.

"Don't open that window again."

Stepping into the room, Gold walked over to her as she stared out into the winter. Alison sat down on the window ledge as she said, "How could I not feel that? It must have been snowing all night..."

"That's because I put a spell around the house," Gold grumbled, "I'm no fool, I know The Guardian of the Season of Cold's magic."

Alison looked at his tired face and said, "It's early, go back to bed."

"I should say the same to you," Gold said, walking over to her, "I felt you, you were up all night trying to work that mirror."

Alison didn't comment and said softly, "They're in Neverland..."

"You talked to them?" Gold asked sharply, and Alison shook her head. She stared out the window and leaned against the cool glass saying, "Ryaden found where the portal went. Tzila contacted me this morning."

"I see," Gold said as Alison stood up. He watched her walk over to the bed as he said, "So...the woman you hated with a passion turned out to be the Mage of Neverland."

"Don't remind me," Alison said scowling. She fell back on the neatly made bed. Gold walked over to her as she looked up at him with semi-tired eyes. He sat down on the bed and she asked, "Did you know?"

"Did I know?" Gold asked, scoffing, "I didn't even know you were my son's child and you're asking me if I knew Jane was your mother. I wish I had known. I should have known."

"You're losing your touch," Alison grinned. Gold raised his brows and said skeptically, "I'm losing my touch? Little Miss Mage, you have a lot of nerve saying that I'm losing my touch."

"Then tell me how I'm wrong," Alison jested and Gold's mouth opened a bit before closing tight. Alison giggled which made him smirk. She then shrieked as he began to tickle her sides. Her laughter rang into Belle's bedroom as she finished getting ready. She smiled at hearing them talk and her laughter. Belle heart had broken when she saw Alison run upstairs last night and lock herself into her room. Jefferson had told them what had occurred which left Gold in a mood as well. This family could not get a break. It was always one thing after another. Belle crept by the room, peeking in to see Alison and Gold sitting on the bed. Belle then tip toed down the stairs to the kitchen. Starting breakfast, Belle heard them come down the stairs. Glancing at her ring on her left finger, Belle heard Alison come into the kitchen saying, "-can't help that for once in your life you stink at being one step ahead with things."

Belle looked back as Gold stopped her, kissed the top of her head saying, "Eat your breakfast before you land in some real trouble."

"Fine," Alison said, walking over to the refrigerator. Alison looked at Belle and said, "Morning!"

"Good Morning," Belle said, smiling warmly at the child. Alison pulled out the orange juice and heard Belle say, "Can you do me a favor and pull out the basket of grapes; they should be on the bottom shelf."

"Okay," Alison said bending down. She pulled out the basket and nudged the door shut. Gold walked over to the counter and poured his tea saying, "I still never found that blasted letter."

Alison tiptoed to reach the cabinet door and pulled down a glass. She poured her own juice before snapped her fingers quietly. The juice container disappeared in a puff of smoke which made Belle roll her eyes. Alison paid no heed as she went to sit down. Gold took his treasured tea cup and sat down at the table with it. Alison swallowed a little bit of juice before asking, "What letter do you keep going on and on about? Did you get served or something?"

"If you mean breakfast, then yes," Gold said as Belle put a pot on the stove, putting various ingredients in it. Belle smiled coyly as she briefly exchanged looks with Gold. Gold glanced back at Alison who in turn rolled her eyes saying, "Not what I meant. And you failed to answer my first question!"

"You didn't give me the chance," Gold said, his eyes filled with amusement, "It was a letter for an item I ordered. A piece of jewelry."

"I didn't know you were the jewelry type," Alison joked, grinning before taking another sip of juice. Belle then walked over to her and deliberately pressed her hands on the table. Alison glanced down at it. There was a ring with a pretty gold band in the form of twining medal. The stone was an intricately cut diamond with little blue stones around it. Alison sipped her juice, deliberately ignoring it. Instead Alison said with a mocking scowl, "You shouldn't have stuck a barrier around the house. How else was I going to be able to feel the fact Jack Frost dumped a bunch of snow outside?"

"Well sorry, dearie, I didn't feel like having Jack Frost stop in for a visit," Gold said with a bit of a grimace, "Especially with his unknown alliance right now."

"I highly doubt she's completely won over Jack," Alison said with a huff, "He may look scrawny, but he's got Sage's survival skill times infinity and your fighting skills times indefinitely."

"Says his former student," Gold mocked and Alison swallowed more of her juice. Finishing her glass of juice, Alison commented, "All the more reason to take my words seriously."

"That or you're idolizing your teacher," Gold remarked and Alison walked away from the table saying, "Or you're being bitter because he kicked you to the moon!"

"Watch it," Gold said warningly. Alison left her cup in the sink before walking over to the doorway. She then turned around and grinned at them saying, "Anyway, congrats you two. You didn't have to flash the pretty ring to tell me you were engaged."

Alison made a white envelope appear in her hands as she waved it around saying cheekily, "The mail works just as fast."

"What?" Belle said baffled as Alison disappeared in a flash. Gold had a menacing smirk on his face and got up saying, "That little spitfire never learns."

Alison slammed the door to her bedroom shut, locking the door with a click. Jefferson, who was sitting on the chair with his legs propped up on the desk, stared as Alison turned around snapping her fingers. Jefferson watched as the room warped momentarily from the spell and stammered, "Al-What are you doing?"

"We're going to my other bedroom!" Alison said with a cheeky smile. She ran over to her bed and bent down to reach underneath. Jefferson sat up, removing his legs from the desk but making no further movement to get up. Alison heard footsteps walking up the stairs from the first floor as she grabbed her bag. Scrambling out from underneath, she barely heard Jefferson ask, "Have you looked outside?"

"I have," Alison said as she slung the bag over her shoulder and stopped in front of the door. Jefferson watched as the edges around the door began to glow. She then opened the door to see the other room insight. Jefferson raised his brows as she said, "Needless to say I will be scolding you for going through this weather, but first, let's be going."

"That requires me to move," Jefferson said, as Alison walked into the doorway saying tauntingly, "You don't have to, but then that means you would be stuck here with the Dark One!"

The room began to warp again and Jefferson froze. He then scrambled out of the chair and towards the closet. As Alison heard the door lock click, Jefferson ushered her in the room and slammed the door shut. Alison snapped her fingers and the door on the wall disappeared. Grinning, Alison began to walk away with a big satisfied look upon her face. Jefferson stared from the wall where the door had once stood to the girl walking around the room. Shaking his head slightly, Jefferson asked, "Dare I even ask what occurred just now?"

"Ruffling the dark one's imaginary feathers. I needed something to make me feel better," Alison said, passing by a desk with many open scrolls upon it. There were many different desks on the main floor, with books, quills, ink, and various other things that she needed for her work. In the center of the room stood a cauldron, smooth and black. There were swirls designs along the bottom, the fire beneath the cauldron was nearly non-existent. The walls had vines going up them, painted on the wall delicately. The room was shaped like a cylinder, stretching miles above them. There were many platforms at many different levels, doors on every single one. Jefferson walked slowly towards her as Alison turned to him saying, "Now for your scolding..."

"I think it should be the reverse," Jefferson said gently leaning his arm against the table, "Me scolding you for using magic that could be used for something more important."

"Ah, well, I needed to do some things and as you noticed, there is a bunch of snow belonging to Jack Frost outside," Alison said, stopping and staring at him. Jefferson glanced down at the table and spotted one of the scrolls. He moved the edge of another scroll to get a better look as Alison walked towards another door. But before she could open it, it opened to reveal Tzila. She was dressed on one of her many slender dresses. It was red and black, which made Alison's facial expression flicker. Her long hair was pulled back and tied into a twisted braid and it swayed as she walked over to Alison. Her face looked sorrowful as she approached her. Alison looked away as Tzila said, "Good Morning."

"Good Morning Tzila," Alison said, somewhat dejectedly. Shaking her head, Tzila said, "Can we go talk elsewhere dear?"

"I'm going to get changed if you want to follow," Alison said walking towards the door Tzila just came in through. Alison shut it and knocked on it twice. She waited a moment before opening the door again and went inside. Tzila glanced at Jefferson, who nodded at her softly. Tzila followed after Alison, shutting the door behind her. Tzila found herself standing on one of the highest platforms. The wooden floors were old but soothing to the eyes. The bed on the other side of the platform was made up of many pillows and blankets of all different colors. There was a changing screen over near the curved wall where Alison walked over to. Tzila didn't pay much attention to that as she stared at the ceiling. It looked like a sky of gold and purple hues, rather beautiful to look upon. Sitting down on one of the seats, Tzila continued to look about. Alison's voice interrupted her thoughts with a simple statement.

"What do you want?"

"Jack Frost," Tzila said, softly, "He is here."

"I figured that much out already." Alison scowled, and Tzila continued, "He's definitely infected by the Anti-Magic; Morgana was able to figure that much out. Oz wants all of us to meet together before anyone does anything…"

"Tell him I will not be able to attend," Alison said shortly, pulling her long hair out of the sweatshirt she had just pulled over her head, "I have some things to attend to."

"I understand, he told me if you could not attend to give you this," Tzila said, pulling a bracelet out of her pocket, "He said this will protect us from any possible harm that will come from Jack."

Alison came around the changing screen dressed in jeans and a sweatshirt. Tzila tilted her head and watched Alison come forward to retrieve the bracelet. Reaching out, Alison slipped the bracelet on her wrist as Tzila said, softly, "This worlds clothes are very strange… I liked your dresses much better."

"The skirts get in the way," Alison grumbled, wrinkling her nose, "Makes it harder to run."

Tzila watched Alison examine the bracelet and said, sadly, "I'm sorry."

"For what?"

"For what Oz had done," Tzila said, "For my father has done… they were in the wrong."

"What's done is done," Alison said dejectedly, "There is no changing it as much as I would like to…"

"I didn't know," Tzila said, wringing her hands, "I hadn't a clue…."

"I know," Alison said simply, "So don't be sorry."

Tzila watched her, saying no more on the subject. Alison may not have been cruel or harsh, but her aura told the Mage of Shadows that she still did not wish to speak of it. Tzila then changed gears and said, "So I hear Gold and Belle are betrothed. Congratulations."

"Don't say it to me, say it to them," Alison said with a shrug, "It's just one more step ahead in my plan."

"Ah yes, the Master's assignment to you," Tzila said softly, "The one you will not talk about."

"For good reasons," Alison said, exasperated, "I need it to be kept on the downside."

"I understand," Tzila said, "I'm surprised your still doing it after all that's happened."

"Let just say I'm not giving him an excuse to have them take away from me either," Alison said pointedly.

"Will you not let me help you?"

"I'd prefer to keep this to myself, thanks."

"I'm sorry, I just wish no harm to befall you."

"Too late," Alison said, cheekily, "Remember the Isle? Wonderland? Antic?"

"I can't help that, you cause trouble everywhere you go," Tzila said with amusement, "You've just been lucky enough to have someone to come help."

Alison slowed her movements as she pulled a scarf around her neck. Her face fell as she tied off the scarf saying, "It was usually Jack…"

Tzila's face seemed to fall as well as she nodded slowly and said softly, "Or Sage…."

"How is Sage doing?" Alison asked and Tzila shook her head saying impatiently, "Being the same as always, too perky for his own good."

"Not surprising, that's usually how he deals with things," Alison said, softly. Tzila examined the girls face with more intent and noticed the slight dark rings under her eyes. In fact, Alison did not look as well as Tzila knew she could look. Shifting in her seat slightly, Tzila said, "Are you still having the nightmares?"

"When am I not having the nightmares," scowled Alison, "I'm used to them."

"Mmm," Tzila said watching Alison with a slightly put out expression. Tzila tilted her head and then said, "You know, I remember the time you fell into the Isle. It was the newest cycle of boys, and they were just turning into donkeys. You were frightened beyond belief and ran away upon seeing Ryaden. I remember you fell down right into the tent I was sitting in. I had barely spoken two words when you had spilled out everything, begging me for help."

"And then you laughed at me," Alison huffed and Tzila stood. She walked over to the mirror that Alison was standing by. Tzila gently pushed Alison's hair back. Alison froze, her spine going rigid. Tzila noticed but did not say anything about it. Instead, Tzila bent over and said softly in the child's ear, "It was more laughing at your intriguing name you had for Ryaden. But still, I admired your honesty…"

"My honesty," Alison said tightly, "Ruined my life, as well as my fathers and countless others."

Tzila had a flash of pain come across her face. She leaned down to kiss the top of her head. Alison flinched and Tzila pulled away. Pulling her hand away from the child's hair, Tzila whispered stepping away, "You used to love people stroking your hair too…."

"And then someone told me if I cut it, he would make me pay," Alison said with a rather rigid sigh, "Things change."

Tzila sat back down, watching Alison with an impassive expression and said softly, "Indeed."

Alison grabbed a coat off the mirror edge. It was a bit big on her, as she slid it around her. Tzila watched with a nervous expression as Alison walked over to a chest near the wall. She opened it and took out a leather satchel. Putting it around her, Alison heard Tzila ask, "Are you leaving now?"

"Yes, I am," Alison said, "There are things I have to attend to."

"Shall I go?"

"If you wish. If you'd like to hide from Ryaden awhile longer be my guest."

"Mm," Tzila said, obviously slightly annoyed at the thought of Ryaden, "If I was hiding from him."

"If you say so," Alison said walking over to the door. Opening it up, Alison paused before saying, "You know, I wouldn't be surprised if the Master forced him to keep his mouth shut. As much of a despot as he can be, he's got his heart in the right place."

"Oh really?" Tzila said as Alison went to leave. Peek her head back at Tzila, Alison said, "Yeah. Right smack in the middle of your hand."

Alison shut the door and sighed. Jefferson, who was standing by one of the tables on the main floor, was reading a rather long scroll. He glanced over at her and said, "Done talking?"

"As done as we'll ever be," Alison said with a shrug. Jefferson looked back down at the long scroll of parchment and said, "So this is the plan for the Dark One. It's a good thing he hasn't been in here."

"Well, luckily he's back to being too mushy with Belle," Alison said rolling her eyes. Jefferson watched her taking the scroll he was reading and rolled it up sharply. She slipped it in her satchel as Jefferson watched her with a strange expression. She walked over to the door and reached towards it. Alison then looked back and said, "I'm heading to the garden, are you coming with me?"

"Well considering how much trouble you get in when I'm not there," Jefferson said mockingly and Alison playfully smacked him. However, her voice sounded pointed as she said, "You don't have to come, you can go home to Grace if you want."

Jefferson was taken aback, tilting his head as Alison knocked on the door three times. But before she could open it, Jefferson put his hand against it. Alison sighed, knowing full well she couldn't open the door with his hand there. Jefferson then leaned over and said, "Why?"

Alison just stared at him and he continued, "Why are you doing that? Bringing Grace up every time I try to help you?"

"Because she's what you wanted," Alison said exasperated, "You wanted a new life with her, that was our deal-!"

"It was," Jefferson said, suddenly and harshly," It was our deal... I would have thought you of all people would know that people change!"

Alison suddenly tensed, her eyes glimmering coldly at him. She then said stoutly, "Don't you dare."

"Dare what?" Jefferson said, refusing to move an inch, "Point out a fact?"

"Don't you dare bring that up!" Alison said heatedly, rage apparent in her tone, "You-You said you wanted to be with Grace, that you wanted another chance to be the father she deserved! You hung up your hat, and now you're telling me that you want to help? Don't ruin your chance at happiness over me!"

Jefferson suddenly grabbed her wrist, yanking her away from the door. Alison struggled a minute but Jefferson was stronger. He pulled her across the room and finally released her. Alison looked at him in shock as he pulled a sheet off a mirror and snapped, "Look. Look in that mirror. Tell me who you see."

"I see me," Alison said flatly, "Alison."

Jefferson glared at her (which took Alison by surprise) and said, "No, it's not Alison Kinsleigh. This world has destroyed her, thrown her into nightmares that have swallowed her whole and left me this painful reminder that I couldn't save her."

Alison stared at Jefferson as she walked over to her. She then glanced at the mirror with an indifferent expression as Jefferson said, leaning over and whispering in her ear, "This world is killing you, don't you see what it has done? You've made so much progress, but it will all be for naught if you don't remember."

"I remember Wonderland, I remember everything! Every night I'm stuck in the prison of nightmares! Remembering is not my problem," Alison said with a glow of tears in her eyes and Jefferson shook his head. He stared in the mirror, his eyes stricken with grief and madness. He then said, "What are the three things needed to fly?"

"What?"

"The three things need to fly," Jefferson continued, "Are faith, trust, and pixie dust. Even if I sprinkled that dust over you a thousand times, you would not be able to fly into the air. You've forgotten, forgotten how it is to trust. You've let this poison seep into you; create this ugly persona that refuses to trust that you could be loved. I watch you for three years sink into the depths of darkness and it's killed me every second since then."

The child felt him hug her tightly as he said tightly, "I loved you, watching you laugh, watching you cry, watching you extend your love to every living being you ever crossed giving them the chance to live. Your greatest secret was having no secrets. You were so beautiful, could be so beautiful. Please, please, let that be again."

Alison opened her mouth but then didn't say anything. She felt something vibrate in her pocket and she pulled it out. It was a jagged looking rock, glowing a golden light. Sighing, Alison said, "I have to go. If I don't go now, it'll be sitting too long."

Jefferson didn't say anything as Alison walked to the door. Alison looked at him pained and said softly, "Say hello to Grace for me."

Alison disappeared through the door, appearing on the step of the Garden's cabin. Looking around, it was a wonder to behold. There looked to be a dome surrounding the garden grounds. The snow was still falling ever so lightly, disappearing on touch of the shield. The grounds beyond the dome were cover in white snow, soft and untouched. Alison paid it little heed as she walked over to the apple tree. Picking up a basket, she stared up at the wonders of the tree. Apples had come to be on the tree, ready for the taking. Pulling one down from the tree, Alison bit into it feeling the crisp coolness in her mouth. Smiling softly, Alison stared up at the tree with a victorious smile and took another bite of the apple.

There was a crack, a breaking of twigs. Alison turned around, the smile vanishing from her face. Flicking her fingers together, she attempted to sense the intruder. Much to her surprise, she could sense no one. She took a few steps away from the tree and said loudly, "Who's there!?"

There was no answer for her, just the blowing of a breeze. Narrowing her eyes, Alison turned back around and took a few steps back towards her tree. That was until Alison nearly screeched from something shooting through her. Her body felt a shooting freeze shot through her nervous system, causing her body to shake from the inside out. Alison couldn't stop herself as she fell to the ground with a thump. She knew this weapon, this sleeping agent. Her vision faded in and out, rendering her unable to see her attacker right away. Forcing her head up, Alison saw the tall man standing over her. However that was the last bit of energy she had and Alison finally passed out.


Baelfire watched Jane sleep restlessly in the bed. The sun was rising, pouring in through the windows. He sat by her, tracing a handheld mirror, focusing his energy into the link. He had forgotten how frustration it was to use Anti-Magic in a Magical world. His fingers skated over the mirror's cool surface, searching intently for a link. Nevertheless, he couldn't find one; hadn't been able to find one. Finally releasing the energy, Baelfire leaned back with a groan. It wasn't surprising, someone had to be on the other end with the same matching levels to maintain such a connection.

Jane tossed onto her other side, her tired face looking rather pale. Crawling over to her, Baelfire pushed her hair out of her face. His face was impassive as he watched his wife sleep. She had been out like a light since he arrived through the portal with her. Luckily it had taken them to the Lost Boys, who had helped him bring Jane back here. Jane had a terrible night, whispering the name of the child they shared. Guilt twisted in his gut as he let out a heavy sigh. It was about to begin, the terrible fate he knew Storybrooke had in store. He had wanted nothing more to be with Alison, shelter her from the events that would soon come to pass. But he could not, he knew that now. His darling Lisie needed to find herself again, to be released from the darkness that had entered her the fiery day they both hated dearly. It killed him, ripped him apart knowing that his choices had caused him to fail her. The only thing that soothed him was that she wasn't alone.

Jane whimpered softly in her sleep, obviously in quite some pain. Baelfire gritted his teeth before leaning in to kiss her softly. Jane would have been alone, alone and possibly killed had he not jumped through the portal. He could not put Jane and Alison through such agony again. Pulling her closer, Baelfire kissed the top of her head repeatedly before settling down beside her. She instinctively snuggled into his side, wrapping her arm around him. Baelfire sighed, hating the fact that he had so much to tell his daughter and no way to do so. Begrudgingly, Baelfire fell into an unsettling sleep, dreaming of a day he wish he could forget.

"She's beautiful."

Baelfire looked up from the window to see the Enchantress standing there. She was in the clothing of this world, but she still looked unearthly. Outside in the back porch was August and Lisie playing with a golden colored ball, tossing it and chasing each other around. Baelfire's face went impassive as he said, "Yes she is. Inside and out. Nice of you to drop in unannounced, Teacher."

"Well, what a greeting," Enchantress said with pleasantry, "Nice to see you too."

The Enchantress strode forward and glanced down at the child. She smiled, even though the emotion seemed lacking as she said, "You praise your darling little daughter with so much love but yet you isolate her from the world. Have you become so detached from everyone Baelfire that you would punish you own daughter from any social interaction?"

"You of all people know the evils of this world," Baelfire said flatly, "Besides, this world will not be her home for long. Just until she's old enough."

"You mean 'till she's old enough to control the magic and anti-magic deep inside her," Enchantress said with almost a playful yet taunting expression. Baelfire's expression flickered as the Enchantress said, "What a hard thing it is to explain to a Kindergarten teacher or anyone else in this world why a child can make plants bloom at an unearthly speed. Even worse when you haven't even let the child know she can do it."

"And what would you like me to do, Teacher," Baelfire said sharply, "Ruin her chances at a loving childhood by exploiting her talent in other worlds. No, she'll find out once she's old enough to fully understand."

"I would like you to do as you see fit," Enchantress said calmly, "She is your child, not mine. A point I will make rather clear."

Baelfire looked at his teacher as she walked over to the desk. There sat a book open to a story with a picture of a nutcracker. She traced the edges of the picture and said, with purpose and grace, "She may look like the Mage of Neverland, she may have her grandmothers' eyes. But do not forget Baelfire that she is your child. She has many gifts, many beautiful traits that will give her more treasures than she can ever hope to posses. However, her path will be long and difficult, a burden of something inside her that could be her very undoing."

"Rumple, this is ridiculous!"

Belle stood with her hands on her hips, looking crossly at Gold. He was sitting at his desk in the study. Light poured in, showing all the slightly disorderly bookcases. In his hand was a rather old book with worn leather. Looking up at her with an ever so slightly amused expression, Gold said, "Really dearie, I'm afraid you are going to have to be more specific than that."

"I can't leave this house, every door is locked with that spell," Belle said with a huff, "You can't honestly think Jack Frost is going to try to attack me the minute I step outside."

"He may very well try," Gold warned, his voice becoming more serious, "Believe me that's a fight we do not want to start. Just stay inside till I've figured out this protection spell."

"So why haven't you gone after Alison?" Belle argued, obviously not pleased with his answer. Gold sighed and said, "Because where she went I can't just appear into. She's inside the Mage's Manor, that's all that matters. Believe me, once I find her, she is grounded times infinity."

Belle huffed, turned around and stacking the books on the shelf with an air of impatience. Gold watched her, picking the book down on the desk. He stood up, walking over to her and gently pulling her closer to him. Belle felt his warm breath hit her neck and she couldn't help but smile. He hugged her gently nuzzling her hair, inhaling it deeply. Sighing, Gold leaned back and said, "I love you…"

"Mhm, I love you too," Belle said, and Gold asked, "Did you decide what you wanted to do in regard to what we talked about last night?"

"Yes," Belle said softly, turning in his arms, "I just want it small, and as soon as we can. Just our family and friends."

"And your father?" Gold asked, hesitantly. He stared at her as she let out a heavy sigh. Shaking her head, Belle said with a heavy tone, "No, not him. He wouldn't want to come anyway."

"Because of me?" Gold asked and Belle said sternly, "Because he couldn't let me make my own choice. And this is my choice."

Gold watched her with a distant expression and Belle slid her arms around his neck. She nuzzled him gently and said, "Please don't worry yourself with it. He's made his choice, and I've made mine. As much as I would have liked him to be here, he is not."

Gold nuzzled her back and said, "Very well. I shall make the arrangements."

Belle smiled warmly and said, "Thank you. But that requires leaving the house."

"You want to bet?" Gold teased and earned a smack from Belle. He then caressed her cheek and said, "Don't worry; the protection spell should be done soon. And then we shall be able to leave and do as our hearts content."

Belle hugged him again and turned and went back to her cleaning. Gold watched her before walking back over to her desk. Sitting down, Gold glanced back up at her and watched her walk over from shelf to table with a bit of a sway. Smiling to himself, Gold picked his book back up again and flipped through some of the pages. He had work to do after all.


"Hurry up, Emma! We're almost there!"

Emma followed after Henry with the Charming's not too far behind. They were walking through the snowy forest, the snow crunching beneath their feet. Snow White looked around and said, "You know, if it wasn't for the fact Jack Frost did this, it would almost be beautiful."

"True, it's a shame he's not on our side," Charming said, help Snow over a tree root. Emma looked around worried and said, "Are we sure that these bracelets will protect us?"

"Of course they will!" Henry said, as if it were obvious, "The Mage's themselves made them. Now come on! Alison said once the rock glowed, the apples would be ready for picking!"

"Wait, we are walking all this way for apples?" Emma said baffled. Henry looked back at her with annoyance and said, "Not just any apples! It's Alison's apples; they are the best ones around considering they aren't poisoned."

Charming snorted and Snow playfully smacked him. Emma smiled weakly and said, "Well, I hope they are good as you say. My toes are nearly frozen."

"They are-Mrs. Nolan?" Henry asked baffled causing Emma to stop and look up. They all looked ahead to see Kathryn look back at them. She was dressed in a nice white knit hat and a tan thick coat. She made a bit of a face and said explanatory, "Abigail. My real name is Abigail, Henry."

The silence was almost eerie as they all stared at her and she stared at them. Charming was the first to come forward and said, "You remember?"

"Yes," Kathryn said, with a kind but bittersweet smile, "I do remember. Everything."

"But then- then the spell is broken," Henry stammered, obviously alarmed. Kathryn nodded and said, "Yes, the spell is broken but the curse is not. Luckily for us, it will probably take time for such a big spell to completely disappear."

"What is it you are doing in the middle of the forest?" Charming asked, as Snow watched him with a concerned expression. Kathryn lifted up her hand to reveal a folded up map and said, unfolding it, "I was trying to find The Garden Cabin. Alison and I had started going to tend to things there and I was hoping I would find her there. I haven't been able to find her yet..."

"Well, that's actually where we are heading," Henry piped in, walking over to her with Emma and Snow White following slowly, "Why don't you come with us?"

"I'm sure it will be better if we all went together," Charming agreed, watching Kathryn, "Come along, we can all eat apples and you can talk things over with Alison."

Kathryn smiled and nodded. Henry then yanked on Charming's sleeve and said excitedly, "Race you there!"

"Hey!" Charming said with a big grin. He went after Henry and Emma sighed in exasperation. She followed at a quicker pace after them leaving Kathryn to walk with Snow. Snow shifted uncomfortably and Kathryn noticed. Kathryn then said kindly, "So you are Snow White, Prince Charming's wife."

"Yes," Snow White said, with a bit of a forced smile, "And you are Princess Abigail, his former fiancée."

"It was an arranged marriage," Abigail said with a noble warmth, "As much as Charming as done for me, he wasn't the man I wanted."

"What do you mean?" Snow asked curiously. Kathryn smiled warmly and said, "He saved my true love from a curse that would have kept us separated for life. He is the reason for my happily ever after to have continued."

"He saved the man you loved," Snow said with a truer smile, "Sounds like Charming. Did you ever get married? I'm surprised he didn't mention anything to me."

"That's because the wedding had not yet taken place," Kathryn said sadly, "The curse hit before it could happen. It seems I have this tendency to keep losing the ones I love…."

"I'm sure Alison misses you," Snow said reassuringly, "I've seen it in her eyes every day. And I'm sure you will find your true love again once."

Kathryn smiled as they continued to walk after Emma, Charming, and Henry. The three of them were throwing snowballs at each other while running deeper into the woods. Charming swooped Henry up almost over his shoulder, the two of them laughing with mile wide grins. Snow White smiled and said, "Was he like that with Alison?"

"Huh?" Kathryn said looked at Snow White distracted and said, "Oh no, not at all. Alison's much quieter and reserved. She doesn't like to be snuck up on or swoop up in that manner. Unfortunately, all those years from being tossed from family to family left a lot of ugly scars. David was good though, he understood her situation. He makes a good father, or should I say grandfather?"

Snow White laughed a little but was interrupted when Kathryn said, "I was the first she told you know."

"Told what?" Snow asked, with confusion. Kathryn watched the group in front of them and said, "About Gold being her grandfather. She told me a little while before I lost my memories of her."

"Wh-Why didn't you say anything?" Snow said, surprised and Kathryn shook her head. She looked at Snow White and said, "She wasn't ready to tell him. She may have been coming back, but she still had so much farther to go. She wasn't ready for any of this... Then Ruby told me about all the events that happened as of recently and I'm ashamed I wasn't there to help her...we still had so much work to do..."

"You've been marvelous with her," Snow said firmly but her expression was filled with hope, "You've brought out more of the real Alison than we ever hoped to see."

"Hey, guys! Come check this out!"

Snow and Kathryn looked around to see Emma waving at them. The two women followed Emma to the dome that surrounded the cottage. Henry and David were already inside the dome, looking around with wonder. Snow White's smile was a mile wide when she entered the dome with Kathryn as she said, "What warmth! It's so bright and refreshing here!"

Kathryn looked around with worry and walked towards the cabin saying, "Where's Alison? Shouldn't she be here?"

"I-She should," Henry said frowning, "She wouldn't leave the apples like this, and she's always really good about taking care of them."

Emma looked around and then went walking over to the tree. There laid a basket with a partially eaten apple. Near it was darkly stained grass with an object laying in the middle. Emma narrowed her eyes as she reached out to pick it up by the handle. It was a knife, silver at the hilt and the blade seemed to be made of jagged ice. On it was specks of blood, shining against the blade. Emma looked stricken and said, "We have such a big problem."

"Wh-?" Snow White started and Kathryn rushed to Emma's side. Kathryn stared at the knife petrified and looked around with a panic. David walked over as Henry looked scared. Snow White grabbed his shoulders and Emma said, "We need to get back to the Mage's. There is something really wrong."

Kathryn noticed something in the trees near the edge of the clearing. Kathryn walked over to it and pulled the scarf from the trees. Kathryn's eyes filled with tears as she stared at it and said, "Alison..."

"Kathryn, what is it?" Emma asked looking over at her. Kathryn turned and said, "This is the scarf I made for Alison. It was stuck on the branches."

Emma looked stricken and said, "David take Kathryn back to town. Find Ruby and see Mary Margaret take Henry back to town and tell Gold what's up. I'm going to look for Alison."

"You shouldn't go alone!"

"Right now, we don't have an option! Get back to town!" Emma snapped before disappearing into the forest. David scowled and led Kathryn away from the edge of the forest saying, "Come on, let's quickly get back to town so Ruby can try finding Alison."


Coughing, Alison groaned as she felt her vision come back around. Her body felt sore, which was an unfortunate advantage to the man responsible in attacking her. Alison tried to move but found that her arms were bound tightly behind her back and she was tied just as tight. Alison hissed as she felt a stab of pain shoot through her back as she tried to move. She finally looked up as the door to the room opened. There he stood with another man in a red cap, who looked a little fidgety. But the other man stood tall, as he stared coldly down at her saying, "You're Autumn, the girl that was with that imp the day he took my van."

Autumn narrowed her eyes and said, "And you're Moe French, the idiot that has a death wish. What did you want to add kidnapping to your list of criminal charges?"

"Silence," Moe French snapped and pointed at her saying, "My sources tell me you're nothing more than a wretched witch. You and that monster have taken something very precious of mine. My daughter Belle."

"You mean the daughter you shunned," Autumn snapped, "And what would she have to do with me?"

"You are going to bring her back here," Moe said, "And tell Rumpelstiltskin that he's never to speak to her again. He'll listen to you."

"Aha, yeah right. The man would skin me and frankly, so would she. Besides, there is no incentive for me to do as you say," Autumn snorted, staring up at him with an unnecessary dark expression. Something was creeping in her mind that made her very, very apathetic. Moe French swallowed nervously but then said, "Your incentive is that I will take away what the Dark One took from me. If I lose Belle, he loses you. After all Anti-Magic doesn't mix well with Magic…"

"You crazy idiot," Alison's voice raised in a very sharp way, "You made a deal with the Enchantress didn't you? That how you remember anything at all."

"My deals are my own business," Moe French said firmly, "Now are you going to do what I say?"

"Never!" Autumn said intractably, "I promised I would protect her no matter what and that includes from you!"

"Do it," Moe French said to the other person. The person nodded and untied her. Autumn struggled, only for the pain in her back to rear up in agony. Autumn snarled as the man said, as he pulled her out of the shop and into a trap door going down into the cellars, "Please don't struggle. Antic's anesthetics are brutal on the system."

Autumn struggled against him, snarling not so nice comments in his direction. The man winced as he shoved her in one of the mine carts saying, "You're definitely a little aggressive one aren't you?"

"Let me go! Just who do you think you are!?"

The man locked her tied hands to the cart and said, "You can call me Mr. Smee, the collector of hard to find objects."

"Smee?" Autumn said venomously, "That captain's idiot!?"

"The very same," Smee said with a little bow, "Now forgive me Magesteria, but a man's got to make a living you know!"

"If Rumpelstiltskin doesn't kill you, you can count on it that I will!" Autumn snarled and Smee leaned down to flip a switch on the cart and said, "The Captain sends his regards. Good luck!"

Autumn suddenly felt the cart begin to move and Smee said, "You're going to need it!"

Autumn struggled, the pain in her back bring tears to her eyes. She then felt the cart pick up speed and she found herself pushing down the tunnel at an alarming rate. She struggled against the ropes and handcuffs. She was then speeding off down the tunnel going deeper and deeper into the earth. She suddenly arrived in a room speeding without a glitch. Alison found herself looking down at a rather large looking statue of a man, ruins carved upon it. Seven stones surrounded it, erupting with obscene amounts of Anti-Magic. Alison's eyes were wide, but soon she was out of the room and speeding through the tunnel again. She slammed her foot on the side of the cart in frustration and shouted, "Chesshire!"

In a puff of smoke, Chesshire appeared. He looked alarmed and said, "Alison, what in-?!"

"Nevermind, just trying and get me out!" Alison said struggling against the bonds. Chesshire went to grab the handcuffs but he was suddenly hissing from the electricity shooting out from it. Chess groaned and said, "No good, no good."

"Fine! Go and get the crew! Get after Smee!" Alison cried, "Don't let him get away!"

"But Ali-."

"JUST DO IT!" Autumn screamed. Chess disappear in a puff of smoke as the cart took a rather violent turn. Autumn struggled feeling the pain growing worse in her back. Little white lights spotted her vision as she struggled. She couldn't get out, she couldn't get out. Her head was growing light headed as she felt the Anti-magic getting closer and closer. Autumn felt it turn the corner and the child shut her eyes tightly as she felt the Anti-Magic pierced her body. Alison didn't even have time to scream as darkness hit her.


"Ruby, do you smell her?"

Ruby, who had been holding the scarf to her nose, sniffed the air. Gold and Belle stood behind her with David and Kathryn. Kathryn had suddenly clenched her coat and David looked at her curiously and said, "What's wrong?"

"Jus-A bad feeling," murmured Kathryn, obviously looking troubled. Gold slightly narrowed her eyes at her, but not in an accusatory way as Ruby said, "I've got her scent. Come on, this way!"

Everyone followed Ruby down the street, who was looking around sharply. She was walking when she suddenly stopped, smelling the air sharply. Belle looked at her with worry as she said, "What's the matter?"

"I-I've lost the scent. It stops right in here…" Ruby said looking up at the sign to the flower shop. Gold suddenly narrowed his eyes as David looked at him with a worried expression. Kathryn looked up at the sign before there was a loud yelp from inside. Everyone went racing inside to see Sage pinning Moe French to the counter table, twisting the man's arm effortlessly behind his back. Sage looked friendly enough but there was a tinge of darkness as he said, "You know, I'm in a really bad mood today and you've only made it worse. Now tell me which mine rail you send Alison down on!"

"I –I can't!" Moe French howled as Sage nearly yanked his arm off. David suddenly rushed over, grabbing Sage saying, "Hey kid! Let him go-!"

"Back off Charming!" his boom of a voice caught everyone off guard, "You have no idea what this man has done!"

"Then tell us, won't you?!" David snapped and Belle's voice spoke up.

"Father?"

Moe French looked up to see Belle staring at him in horror and confusion. Moe French looked happy as he said, "Belle, you came…"

"Father-Father what have you done," Belle said with narrowed eyes. Moe French could barely speak as Sage gave him a kick for good measure in the leg. Sage then scowled and said, "This man is responsible for the assault and kidnapping of Alison Kinsleigh. If he doesn't tell me what he's done with her, I will lock him up in one of Tzila's cells! I promise it will be the utmost unpleasant!"

"Father!" Belle said, obviously horrified, "You didn't!"

"I needed to see you," Moe French said, pleadingly.

"See me? You sent me away!" Belle snapped, her eyes angry, "Now tell me what you have done with her!"

"Belle, please-you are living with monsters!" Moe said, his voice holding a tone of disgust, "Come back, we can start a fresh now-!"

"Fresh!" Belle snarled, Ruby suddenly grabbing her to restrain her, "I would never start a fresh with someone who harms an innocent child! Now what have you done with her!?"

"You've destroyed her," Moe said, staring at Gold with a mad look, "You've taken her from me and now I take your little corrupted witch from you!"

Moe French suddenly disappeared in a glimmer of shadows. Belle blinked, tears apparent in her eyes as she saw Tzila standing behind the counter with her hand outstretched. Her face looked impassive as she put her hand down saying, "That's enough of that. Sage."

Sage looked at Tzila with a dark expression and she said coolly, "Save it for later, we've found Alison."

Sage was gone in a flash of thunderous black smoke. Gold, who was shaking in anger, stared at her in restrained viciousness and said, "You've found her? Is she alright?"

"Please come with me," Tzila said, indicating towards the doorway. Everyone exchanged looks and followed her into the doorway. They soon were in a long white hallway that they knew did not belong to the flower shop. Ruby held onto Belle, who was gripping her arm tightly. Gold was walking quickly ahead, striding alongside Tzila. Regina and Emma were standing at the end of the hallway with Ryaden, who looked grave. Gold walked over saying, "Where is she?!"

Emma and Regina looked at him, both with wide eyes and tears swimming in them. This made him freeze as did everyone else. Tzila however, remained moving and said, "We found Alison down in the mines. It seems Moe French attempted to send her across the town line."

"Why?" Gold demanded, "How would he even know what would happen when she crossed the town line?"

"He didn't know exactly," Tzila said, with patience that she had to conjure, "We believe he made a deal with Jack Frost, telling him exactly where Belle was in return for sending Alison across the town line where he could take Alison without risk of one of you being able to follow. The knife Emma found is proof to that."

"What would he want with Alison?" Kathryn asked with wide eyes and Tzila shook her head saying, "We still don't know. It is clear the Enchantress needs Alison for something. All we know is that Alison did reach the town line, but the Anti-Magic caught her in its web. It shot through her like poison, acting like poison. It did so much damage, so much so that she will die in a few hours without an antidote."

"Do we have said antidote?" Gold asked immediately and Tzila nodded saying sadly, "Yes, but you see that's where it gets tricky."

"How so?" Ruby asked and Tzila explained, "The Mage of Wonderland has always been the perfect balance of two worlds, Magic and Anti-Magic. It's what made Alison the perfect Mage for the World since she was born with both."

"Wait a minute, what?" David said, stricken, "She has Anti-Magic?"

"Yes," Tzila said, "However, because of the Magic the Siren breathed into Alison, magic always took dominance. When Alison came back up through the rabbit hole, however, the tables flipped. The Anti-Magic in this world became dominant and her magic, as well as her memories of it, went to sleep. It made the counterpart known as Autumn… Morgana awoke those memories but the counterpart of Autumn has still remained in control."

"What is the point?" David asked sharply.

"The point is when we destroy the Anti-Magic in her body," Tzila said softly, "We destroy Autumn Doe as well."

Everyone froze, staring at Tzila with a look of shock. Regina was staring at the door of where Alison was resting and said, "We'll kill the counterpart… and the memories that went with her."

"No," Ruby said, tears coming to her eyes, "We couldn't…"

"Autumn Doe is nothing more than someone created from the anti magic of this world," Tzila said, softly, "She may have remembered her life as Alison but surely all of you noticed she still wasn't right."

"Right or not, you can't do this! There has to be some way to save her without ripping her life apart," Belle protested but Tzila shook her head. She then stared at them saying, "There is no other antidote. Gold, Alison wishes to speak to you."

Gold, who had been silent once again, just walked past them and went into the room. He shut the door behind him and looked over. The room was white with many French doors. Some doors were open, letting in the cold air into the room. Gold walked across the marble floor to see Alison sitting on a chaise with fluffy pillows. It was like watching a ghost. Her skin was pale and her hair lank. She wore a simple nightgown that was a bit too large on her. But what really ate at him alive was the dead look in her eyes. It looked as if something had just become a terrifying reality, which was true. She was dying, and that was terrifying enough. Gripping his cane, Gold walked over and sat by her. Alison watched him, the wall of distance glassing over her eyes. Tears slipped down her cheeks as she whispered, "I'm sorry…"

"Sorry?" his voice sounded dangerous, but Alison looked unperturbed, "Why are you sorry?"

"Because you have to let me go," Alison whispered, reaching over and touching his arm. He was rigid and he said his voice filled with raw emotions, "No…"

"Please," Alison said tearfully. She weakly embraced his arm and said, "Please, you have to. There isn't another way…"

She could not see his face. But she found out she didn't need to, instead she found herself pinned in a very tight hug as his body shook with sobs. Alison would have hugged him back but she couldn't find the energy, she felt so weak. Instead she listened as he whispered, "I can't lose you… I can't."

"It's for the best," Alison whispered, resting against him, "I can feel things disappearing Gold, and I'll soon follow…"

"I love you," He said, shaking terribly, "I love you… please let me try and find an antidote…"

"No, there isn't enough time. This is the one there is," Alison whispered, "I can be me again… the happier version that you never got to meet."

"But you'll forget me," Gold said, his voice sounding hurt and angry, "You'll leave me alone and forget that you ever loved me."

Tears filled her eyes as she whispered reassuringly, "Autumn may have found you… but I'm the one that loved you. And that's never going to stop. Please, it hurts so much…"

Gold felt her press something into his hand and he looked down at see a vial of clear liquid. Gold finally stared at her, seeing her hopefully pleading stare; a stare that was begging him not to make her do this alone. His heart shattered into a thousand pieces. Gold leaned in kissing her briefly and innocently. He stroked her tears away and uncorked the vial. He then leaned in whispering, "Goodbye Autumn."

Tears continued to fall down her cheeks and he gently tilted the vial to her mouth. She parted her lips, allowing the liquid to pour down her throat. She began to cough and Gold helped her lay down, gently putting her head down on the pillow. Alison closed her eyes feeling it spread throughout her whole body. She then opened them looking at Gold with sad eyes. She swallowed and said before drifting off into a sleep that would never end, "Goodbye, Mr. Gold… may we meet in another life…"


The Enchantress spun the wheel, watching it turn slowly. There was no wool, or straw upon it. There was nothing but air. Her eyes looked sad as she watched the wheel turn around and round. She was sitting in the room alone, her black dress very slimming and beautiful. The other furniture was covered with sheets of white. The Enchantress continued to spin the wheel until it stopped. She looked down to see that the wheel was blocked by a card. She leaned down and reached for it. Pulling it, the Enchantress looked at the card. She smiled as she saw the heart symbol upon it. She then looked up towards the covered mirror saying, "It's been a rather long time, You're Majesty."

The sheet fell off the mirror to reveal a woman in all her splendor sitting in a chair. She gently spun her brown curls with her fingers and said, "Darling, it has been far too long. Even though I must say I was happy for so a length of time to pass."

"Oh, You're Majesty; don't be so angry with me," The Enchantress said, flipping the card in her fingers, "After all, everything that has happened to you was your own doing."

"Matter of opinion," the woman said, kicking the skirts of her red dress with alluring ease, "But I believe you summoned me, Enchantress. I was hoping my little gift to you would have been enough to have you leave me alone."

"Oh, dear, someone is very impractical," Enchantress said, her smile coy, "After all, you can't gift someone that was never yours to begin with."

"Curve your tongue," the woman said sharply, "She was always mine, and always will be. Even in death."

"Even in death?" The Enchantress said with a laughter that echoed the room, "You think the child is dead?"

"I know she is," the woman said mournfully, "I killed her myself."

"Mm," Enchantress said with a smirk, "So your fragile mind believes. Good luck trying to find a way to this world, you're Majesty. I would give your regards to your daughter, but I don't think that would fly over very well. Would it, oh beautiful Queen of Hearts?"

"No," the woman said with narrowed eyes, "It would not. Good Luck, Enchantress, may the best sorceress win."

The image in the mirror disappeared as the sheet recovered the mirror slowly. The Enchantress examined the card and then flipped it around sharply. The color changed from Red to blue, from white to black, and looked almost to be a joker card. Instead was a figure of a child in a dress, dancing joyfully. The Enchantress smiled coyly and said, "I do love borrowing things. I'm waiting for you Alice, be sure not to take too long."


May for Storybrooke meant that school was coming to an end. It meant that summer was coming and the summer festivities would be around the corner. Even with the snow on the ground, people were still chatting excitedly about the upcoming festival. But for Henry, the thought of summer didn't cheer him up. In fact, He had Alison's book in his lap, watching the night continue on with him feeling absolutely miserable. He gave a bitter grimace and looked back down at her book. He didn't want to go back to Emma's, Alison was gone. His best friend in the whole wide world was gone. The morning after Alison had take the antidote, she had disappeared. Kathryn had been beside herself, running around with Emma in attempting to find her. Henry had run to Gold's in tears, but Belle told him they had not seen Alison. It had now been a week, a week since she was gone and it was ripping him apart that he didn't get to say goodbye. Turning the page, he stared down at the picture on the next page. A picture of her.

Suddenly, the wind kicked up and sent the pages flipping about. In his attempt to grab the pages of his book, he sent his bag to the ground spilling the contents. Groaning, he closed the book and bent down to pick up the fallen objects. Tears prickled his eyes again as he remembered the last time he did this. He was putting the notebooks back into the bag when he heard a light soft voice.

"Here."

Henry's head shot up at the sound of the voice. His jaw nearly dropped to the floor as he saw a girl in front of him holding out a flashlight waiting for him to take it. He trembled as he saw the baby blue eyes and the chestnut colored hair. It was shoulder length now, just barely touching where her collar bone was. She wore black skinny pants with black boots. Her wool jacket was tied tightly around her waist, it's dark blue making her eyes really stand out. It was the smile that really stunned him, her kind wide unwavering smile. Henry swallowed and found the wits to say, "Thanks."

"Not a problem," she said with zestful smile. Zipping his bag shut, Henry found his way to his feet and so did she. Henry swallowed and said, "I-I'm sorry I didn't catch your name."

"That's quite the shame," she said, "Name are tricky things to catch. They fly around your head and sometimes get awfully confused."

"R-Right," Henry said baffled.

"So here is what we should do," she said, "Since we've both clearly missed each other's names, we should just tell each other one. My name is Alice Kinsleigh. Or is it Alison Little? Ahh, which ever you want to call me is fine!"

She extended her hand, her eyes glimmering strangely. Henry watched her for a moment, torn between crying and wanting to hug her. But instead he reached out and shook her hand saying, "Henry…my name is Henry Mills."

Alice's smile became a grin as she said, backing away and releasing his hand, "Pleasure to meet you Henry Mills. Now hurry home to Emma, you wouldn't want Jack Frost nipping at your nose right now."

Alison Kinsleigh snapped her fingers together, the lights in the street lamps suddenly glowing rather bright before a golden gas swirled around inside. Alice then turned on her heels and began to walk away. Henry blinked before suddenly stammering, "Hey-Hey wait! How did you know my Mom's name?"

"Because," Alice said, looking back with a smile before disappearing in a whirl of midnight blue smoke, "I'm the Mage of Wonderland, Henry Mills, and I know a Hero when I spot one."

~Storybook~

"We are almost there!"

Alice watched the March Hare hop quickly over the hill, obviously quite excited. Jefferson was scowling as he shouted at the March Hare to slow his flat feet. Chess appeared beside her as she walked along the path up the hill and he said, "It's nice to breath in the air of White Country. It's always much more pleasant here."

"I would imagine anything is better than the Queen of Heart's bloodlust," Alice said in a matter of fact tone. Cheshire's grin faded a bit before he swirled around her. Alice giggled and said, outstretching her arms, "Chess, would you cut that out! How am I ever going to see anything with your fur in the way?"

"I can't help it, I am obligated to make everyone around me grin like there's no yesteryear," Chess purred, rubbing into her cheek. Alison giggled, rubbing his head softly before kissing his head. Alison then followed him over the hill where Alison's mouth slightly dropped. There in the distance stood a great castle made of pure white. Her eyes were filled with wonder as Cheshire gently tapped her chin with his tail saying, "Chin up, love."

"Alison! Dear, we must come quickly. The White Queen will be waiting for us!"

Alison walked down after Jefferson, her blue skirts hanging gracefully and fluffily above her ankles. She wore a rather tight fitting jacket with strange fastens. Her hair was partially tied back into braids, keeping her hair out of her face. Cheshire followed behind and suddenly his ears perked up. He looked back as Alice stopped saying, "Chess, what's wrong?"

Chess didn't answer but suddenly had a worried look. He disappeared and Alison looked on baffled.

"Look out!"

Alison looked up and scrambled away. The ground she had once stood on now showed a deep dent with a man wearing a black suit with a red tie. He wore a top hat with white bunny ear's sticking out of it. He wore a mask over his face and held a scythe in his hands. March Hare sprinted into action, pulling out a boomerang and throwing it in his general direction. Alison made it a distance away and snapped her fingers. The White Rabbit swung out his weapon but suddenly found himself restrained. The weapon disappeared in midair, as if it ceased to exist. The White Rabbit looked towards the rushing boomerang but suddenly found that it slammed into the bark of a thick vine. The March Hare made an annoyed chitter noise as he muttered angrily. He jumped and grabbed his boomerang, hopping away. Jefferson, however, leaped over to Alison and said, "Alison, wha-why did you stop him? Surely the March Hare wouldn't have missed."

"I will deal with him," Alison said firmly, "We don't have the time to be fighting with him all day long. We need to get to the queen's castle. Believe me, give March Hare enough momentum and he'll never stop."

Alice brushed past the Mad Hatter and walked over to the very much restrained White Rabbit. The White Rabbit's face was looking directly at her as she approached him. The White Rabbit opened his mouth and his deep voice almost startled her, "Why did you stop him? Surely you could have controlled him after."

"You were defenseless," Alice said, staring at him with integrity, "I'm not so dishonorably as to torture someone I don't know."

"Even if that person was sent to destroy you?" The White Rabbit said, somewhat darkly. Alison stared at him with the same look saying, "Even then."

The White Rabbit stared at her, obviously surprised. He then said, "You…are not like this world."

"Neither are you," Alice said, walking towards him, "You seem more…dignified."

"Dignified? My dear Alison, are you sure that you didn't hit your head?" Jefferson started, reached forward. Alice lifted her hand, making Jefferson stop in his tracks. She watched the rabbit and stepped closer to him. The White Rabbit made a grimace and he spoke, "I have not been dignified in quite some time. Being one of the Queen's pets does not allow it."

"I was her pet," Alice said bravely, "And that never stopped me from being whom I wanted me to be."

The White Rabbit swallowed and said, "You do not hide your identity?"

"No," Alison said, frowning in confusion, "I've always been Alison."

The White Rabbit watched her and Alice reached forward. Touching his chest, Alice closed her eyes. The White Rabbit swallowed as Alice smiled an almost coy smile. She opened her eyes and said, "Your heart is still there…that is a good thing."

"That is because she expects her pets to be obedient," White Rabbit responded. Alice nodded slowly and said, "Well luckily, you and I both know you are so much more capable than that…"

Alison lifted her hand and the vines around him slowly fell back into the ground. He was now kneeling on the ground, panting slightly. Jefferson and March Hare went rigid as Alice said, "Make your choice, whether it's killing me or being on your merry way."

"…Your letting me go?" White Rabbit said, rubbing his wrist. Alice stared down at him and said, "I'm letting you choose."

Alice watched him and the White Rabbit looked impressed. He smirked and said, "Bend down, Mage of Wonderland."

Alice bent down, her face not far from his. He then said, "Reached out and touch my mask. All of my former masters and mistresses have been tested this way from the beginning of time. If you are worth of my service, I will change to your soldier."

Reaching out, Alice gently touched his mask and he suddenly began to glow. Alice stepped back, only for the White Rabbit to grab her hand. He leaned over, kissing the back of her hand lightly. He disappeared in a glow and the solid glow began to take form. Alison watched as he turned into the form of a White Rabbit. He wore a black suit with purple silk lining the inside of it. On the chest pocket was a broken heart embroidered upon it. Alice looked on in shock as he said, "I am glad, Alison Kinsleigh, that you were to be my next Mistress."

Alice blinked and then bent down, picking up the rabbit. She then hugged him, a warm smile upon her face. Stroking his head, Alice kissed his head and said, "Welcome to the group."

The March Hare and Jefferson exchanged looks and Jefferson said, "There you go again, making decisions without me! When are you ever going to learn my dear Alice?"

"Never," Alice said, allowing the White Rabbit to jump down from her arms. Cheshire appeared, and said, "Done here love?"

"Chess, you scaredy cat," Alison said as he rubbed up against her cheek. He spun away saying, "Hardly, I just knew you could handle this."

"Now, you scaly withers!" March Hare said, throwing his boomerang, everyone ducking to avoid it. Alison scowled as March Hare grabbed his boomerang. The White Rabbit followed Alison walk towards the Hare as Jefferson walked over the Cheshire Cat. He then said, "You alarmed Sofronia?"

"Of course," Chess said, "She'd eat me if I didn't."

Jefferson nodded and Chess said, "Are you sure this is alright?"

"It's fine," Jefferson said, his voice sounding rough, "As long as Alice and I get home, everything will be fine."