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 in this story! I'm sorry this chapter took so long in updating. There were so many themes I had to run through (I also went on Vacation where I had little time to work on it) and I spent a long time with process of elimination. Regardless, I hope you enjoy!
Chapter Forty One: Darkness of the Moon
Cheers erupted through the bar as the game on the TV screen played. People clanked the bottles, laughing and talking about the goal just scored. There was one person sitting in the corner of the building, stirring her water with the thin straw. Her hair stopped at her chin, the darkness of the brown making her eyes stand out. She looked disinterested as the people around her cheered about the game. Her table suddenly shivered, the drink quivering ever so slightly. Eyes becoming more alert, the woman looked up with a surprised expression.
An explosion burst the windows of the bar, sending all those near them jumping back into the tables. People screamed and yelped as all the lights went out. Slipping under the table, the woman allowed her eyes to scan the darkened room to make out anything. Angry outbursts could be heard, most of them complaints from those watching the game. Those outbursts were soon changed to loud high pitched screeching to dead silence.
Balling her hands, the woman watched as the lights came back on. Her jaw almost dropped as she saw bodies lying on the floor. No blood, no massive bruising, just everyone was laying on the broken tables and chairs like they were sleeping. All except for one.
"What a shame," Enchantress said with disinterest, "Wasting away their lives with such frivolities."
The woman remained mute as she watched the Enchantress walk through the unconscious people carefully. Raising her hand, the Enchantress looked at her hand with disinterest as she said, "Well, I suppose it is only fitting I put them to better use."
The woman's eyes went wide as the Enchantresses hands became surrounded by shocks of electricity and shot throughout the room. Retreating further under the table, the woman stayed as quiet as she could as the people around her glowed with an electric blue light. Her face became serious as the glow died down and people began to sit up, looking dead in the eyes. The Enchantress smirked as they all got to their feet and she said, "Now, you know your purpose. Keep them busy while I make preparations. We only have a few weeks to ensure that no one will be going back to that place and I want no mistakes."
She then disappeared in a flash of light as the people one by one began to leave the bar. The woman pulled out her cell phone and dialed a number. The noisy of the people began to pick up, murmuring things in monotone voices. Finally she spoke, keeping her voice in a low whisper.
"Chesshire, it's me," the woman looked out to see the people filing towards the door, "The Guardian has made her move. It's time."
Hanging up the phone, the woman made it out from under the table. Slipping towards the back, she hurried down the alley way. She would have made it away from the bar if someone hadn't grabbed her by the back of her jacket. Finding herself being slammed into the wall, she looked to see a man staring at her with impassive eyes as he said lowly, "Be one of us."
"Sorry," she gasped, "No thanks!"
She kicked him swiftly, sending him flying back into the wall. His hand outstretched and shot anti-magic an inch from her head. However, before either of them could do much more to each other, something dark slammed into him throwing him down the alley way and causing him to shake. The dark shadows seemed to send him running in fright, leaving the woman confused. She looked to the source of the shadows, seeing something dark up on the roof top. It was a figure of a shadow, something that made her uncomfortable. But before she could get a better look, she found herself flat on her back. Pain erupted in her ankle and she struggled to sit up. The shadow jumped unearthly high, causing her jaw to drop. It soon disappeared into the night and she said with disbelief.
"You have got to be kidding me."
"So how exactly are we getting past these mermaids?"
Nibs was holding a stone knife in his hand, shaving the end of a stick down to a point. Emma was sitting down, watching him with interest. Nibs looked at her with a somewhat eager face and said, "We are going to play a game."
"A game," Emma said in disbelief and Nibs nodded saying, "It's kinda like hopscotch, only timed. We have to cross the cove before they can get us. There have only been two people that have been able to cross."
"Well that's unnerving," Emma said and Nibs said, sounding matter of fact, "Only if you believe it is. If you don't believe then you won't succeed. That's how Neverland works. Besides, you have the Stray Eyes. As long as you have those, Neverland will always accept you as one of us."
"Alright, what are exactly Stray eyes?" Emma said and Nibs looked at her curiously. He then said, putting his knife away, "Strays eyes are grownups that still have the eyes of a child. Often found in those who know not of having parents."
"Oh," Emma said, sounding a little uncertain. Nibs didn't seem too bothered as he asked, "It's weird though. I've never seen a girl with stray eyes before."
"Never?" Emma asked and Nibs said, "No. Not at all. Usually it's been seen in the pirates that come here. Or the Mage's partner."
"The Mage's partner," Emma said wracking her brain as Nibs examined the stick, "You mean Jane's partner?"
"Yes," Nibs said surprised, "How do you know about Jane?"
"I met her in my world briefly," Emma said, "She was one of the Mages helping out…with a problem. Did you say her partner?"
"Yes," Nibs said, "He was once one of us Lost Boys. He and Peter were best mates; in fact they were the only two to cross the cove we are about to. But then he left Neverland, grew up. However, he always had stray eyes. I think it was fitting that he became the Mage's Partner…"
"I see," Emma said, knowing full well who he was talking about. Nibs then added, "He kinda had the biggest crush on her ever, should have known he'd end up growing up."
Emma smiled, obviously amused by his observation, and asked, "Just because he had a crush?"
"It's a grown-up thing," Nibs said, making a face, "Peter scolded him for it then onwards."
Emma couldn't help but laugh. Nibs then reached his hand out, touching the tip of the point. Concern cross Emma's face and she said, "Hey kid, be careful. We can't afford you hurting yourself before crossing this cove."
Nibs looked at Emma in surprised as she stood up. Looking over the staff, Emma asked, "What's this for anyway?"
"It was for you," Nibs said, bluntly, "So you could protect yourself."
He handed Emma the stick spear and now it was her turn to look surprised. Taking it, Emma gripped it with a quick thanks. Standing up, she walked around with it examining it some more. Nibs watched her with a thoughtful look and then shook his head. Jumping to his feet, Nibs said, "Let's get going. The mermaids will be out on their hunt now, so there won't be so many of them in the cove."
Emma nodded and followed Nibs down the beaten path. Unknown to them both someone was watching them from a mirror with an impassive expression. He was sitting on the bed, his black shirt slightly wrinkled. Jane, who had been leaning against the pillows, crawled over to him and asked, "Is it time?"
The scene changed briefly to see Mary Margaret and Rapunzel traveling along a road. Nodding softly, Baelfire watched as Jane lifted up a stone that was clear with no edges, blowing upon it. It glowed blue and Baelfire took it from her. Lifting it up into the air, Baelfire murmured, "It is time for Snow White to be put to the test. Islet, it's time for you to make yourself known. Bring him with you as well."
The object shot up and out the window, burning an electric blue fire. Baelfire watched after it and Jane swallowed saying, "Ryaden is going to kill us if I don't keep my end of the bargain."
"You mean me," Baelfire said, looking over his shoulder. Jane shook her head and said, "No, both of us. I can promise you if you mess with Islet, Ryaden will soon skin you."
"Well it's a good thing I'm not messing with Islet," Baelfire said sincerely, "As much as I love getting under his skin, he helped you. I'm just killing two birds with one stone."
"And I'm sure he'll praise you for epic multitasking in between whip lashings," Jane said with a grimace. Baelfire rolled his eyes with a lazy smile. Grasping her hand briefly, Baelfire went to pull his boots on saying, "Don't worry. I promise you that it's only going to ensure Snow and Emma fix Islet. He's not going to care how we did it."
Jane simple sighed, watching him for a time. Letting a grin enter her features, she laughed softly as she went to get up. Baelfire looked at her surprised and asked, "What?"
"Nothing," Jane mused getting up and walking over to the chair in which her leather over coat laid, "Just picturing Peter scolding you for pining over a girl you just met."
"Mm," Baelfire said, slightly terse, "Remind me to tell Nibs to keep his big mouth tied shut later."
"Oh, I don't know," Jane teased, "I rather like his stories."
"Do you?" Baelfire jumped to his feet, advancing on her. Jane, who wasn't looking at him, pulled on the leather coat saying, "Yes, rather interesting and always informative."
Baelfire slid his arms around her waist. Jane laughed softly as he kissed her cheek, hugging her tight. Biting her lip, she heard Baelfire tease back, "Should I ask him for stories about you then?"
Jane looked at him, opening her mouth to speak. However, he cut her off with a kiss; one that was far from quick but remained loving. Jane leaned back against him, pulling away long enough to whisper, "I sincerely hope you know what you're doing. Alison shouldn't be left to take the heat for what we are doing."
"She won't," Baelfire reassured, stroking her cheek, "August and I have put a plan in place to make sure that any actions won't harm her. Besides, I think Ryaden would rather eat sawdust than let someone place blame on a child."
"Jane!"
Baelfire and Jane looked around to see the picture in the mirror had changed. There was mist swirling in the mirror and Jane raced over to it faster than a rabbit. Stretching out her hands, Jane murmured something, allowing the picture in the mirror to form. Tzila could be seen as well as the scene around her. She was sitting in a chair in a student and looked as if she had just been woken up. Her face filling with relief, Tzila said, "Finally! I've been trying to contact you both forever. Are you well?"
"Yes," Jane said, her voice sounding oddly stern, "Where is Alison? Is she there?"
Tzila shook her head, obviously upset at her sudden question. Jane looked baffled as Baelfire's expression looked dark. Leaning forward, Baelfire grasped Jane's arm as the woman asked with more desperation in her voice, "Where is she, Tzila? Please tell me she's alright."
Tzila rubbed her temples as she said softly, "Too much has happened since you've been gone… So much terror."
"What is going on?!" Jane asked her voice growing louder, "Where's Alison?!"
"Baelfire," Tzila's voice sounded cold, as she stared up at them, "I will be blunt. I sincerely hope you are not working against us; for if you are, I will curse your foolishness till the end of time."
"What-?!" Jane asked eyes horrified and Baelfire said with such a calmness it would send fear into most, "Tzila, what did she do?"
"She sent Jack against us, Baelfire," Tzila said, her voice sounding grave, "And he took Alison to Antic."
"I can't do it."
Kathryn's face remained impassive as she watched Jefferson grasping the back of the chair he had been sitting in. Red looked frustrated as she exclaimed shaking her head, "What do you mean you can't do it?! You jump in, you find them, and you bring them back. How hard can that be?"
"The hat doesn't work like that!" Jefferson said agitated, glaring at Red like he was being offended, "Two go in, two come back! One goes in, one comes back! The same amount of people that come must return through the hat!"
"Can't you just open the portal to let them through?" Kathryn asked hopefully. Jefferson came around in front of the chair, collapsing down into it. His face in his hands, Jefferson groaned, "I would have to have knowledge of where they are and where my hat is. I know neither."
"Wait a minute," Red said suddenly, "What do you mean? You don't have your hat?"
"No, I do not," Jefferson groaned, "Alison took it. Hidden it somewhere in her rooms."
"Then let's go look for it," Red said frustrated and Jefferson jerked back into his seat saying, "You don't think I haven't tried that? Her quarters are inaccessible at the moment and it won't change until she's here to will it."
The two women watched Jefferson as his eyes looked stormy. He almost seemed to have forgotten they were there when he said, "I should have taken it…such a fool…"
"Stop blaming yourself," Kathryn demanded, her voice filled with sternness, "It will only waste precious time that we do not have much of."
Jefferson looked up at her, his eyes filled with a haunting sort of madness that made Red worried. But she did not let it show as Kathryn said, "You know Alison well. Will she be alright until the Mage's get them back?"
"She should be…," Jefferson murmured, "But even I can't be certain…"
Kathryn bit her lip with worry and Red looked down. Her eyes looked stormy as she clenched her hands. Getting up suddenly, Red stormed out of the room. Kathryn watched after her, looking evenly if not more upset. She looked down at her hands and allowed tears to fall. Jefferson raised his head, a sternness coming over him. Kathryn was busy looking down at her hands when Jefferson said, "Why do you search for her so?"
"What?" Kathryn said, looking up at him with surprised eyes. Jefferson watched her and spoke again, "You could be searching for your love, trying everything to wake him up. Why are you looking for a child that made you forget everything, who now has family back in the picture?"
"I love her," Kathryn said, "I'm overjoyed that her father is alive, that her mother truly loves her, that Gold now knows the truth. But nothing will change the fact that we are close, even if she made me forget. It only proves that she still needs help."
Jefferson went to open his mouth when Red suddenly came back into the room. Both looked at her surprised, wondering why she had returned. She looked alarmed as she said, "The Mage's want to see us. Now."
Kathryn opened her mouth when a door opened, as if on cue. Jefferson stood and immediately walked over to it. Red exchanged looks with Kathryn, who stood to her feet. The two of them walked through the door, entering a room where a group of people were. Tzila and Ryaden were near the desk, Ryaden sitting and Tzila sitting on the arm rest. Gold and Belle stood nearest to them, leaning against the wall. Charming stood near Archie and August, who were standing by the window. Regina sat alone, sitting nearest to the other door. Kathryn watched as Jefferson walked over to a chair close to Gold and Belle and sat down promptly. Kathryn and Red jumped as they saw blue-grey wisps of smoke appearing, forming into Cheshire. He sat against the arm chair, crossing his arms. He wasn't smiling, which was completely out of character for the man. The door shut behind Kathryn and Red, causing them to turn in surprise. Ryaden cleared his throat, catching their attention once again. Indicating towards two chairs near the desk, Ryaden said, "Have a seat, we have limited time and much to talk about."
Everyone found a seat in the room as Ryaden let out a rough sigh, tapping his fingers on the desk. Tzila slide her hand onto his and Ryaden glanced up at her before speaking.
"We have figured out a way to secure the way back to the Enchanted Forest."
"Didn't we already figure this out?" August asked with raised brows and Ryaden continued, "We found out that once we returned the core to the Enchanted Forest everyone in Storybrooke would return."
"However, we still had yet to resolve how we were going to stop the shadows from forming under Storybrooke," Red said frowning, "The curse is breaking and I have a feeling the Enchantress is far from done."
"Very true," Ryaden said, "As shown by the recent turn of events."
"Which is one of the reasons why we are telling you now instead of later," Tzila said softly, "We didn't want to tell you yet in case she found out but then she split us up…"
"We get it," Gold said impatiently wave his hand, "What do we do?"
"Ozzie has brought something in our world that will cement the shadows of the Enchanted Realm, making it clear for when we wish to return the core to its proper place in Bezaleel," Ryaden said, his voice sounding rough, "A Lantern made of the purest Silver of Oz. If we send it into Bezaleel, it will take the shadows and cement them into place permanently."
"Which means if someone ever needs to transport the magical realm elsewhere, they'll be screwed," Chess said, his voice rumbling slightly. Jefferson snorted and Red shook her head with a stern look saying, "I highly doubt we are going to have to worry about that. The question is how we are going to have it get there?"
"And how are we going to get the others back," Charming asked, his voice stern and impatiently. Ryaden looked irked and Tzila squeezed his hand, giving him a soft look. Ryaden breathed out and Tzila said, "We had a shadow that we were going to send into Bezaleel. However, the Enchantress has taken the shadow in the midst of the chaos."
"Of course," muttered Red and Tzila continued without hesitance, "And now we need to get the shadow back."
"Why don't you just detach another shadow?" Archie asked, "Or send one of us?"
"It is too dangerous now to go in," Tzila said, "Something is there that is not suppose to be and trying to defeat it before doing this would be extremely unwise. If we send the shadow, this creature won't attack it. It hasn't attacked any of the shadows from what we see."
"So then why not just take one of ours?" Charming asked, crossing his arms. Tzila shifted, staring away from them as Regina piped up saying, "Detaching a shadow…it is quite a painful process. It's not something most people would do to themselves willingly."
"So how do we get back this shadow?" Gold asked, staring briefly at the group before looking back at Ryaden. He shifted and said, "The problem won't be finding the shadow. It's already been spotted. The problem will be to get it to trust us. Shadows replicate the emotions and actions of the person it came from. However, they are easier to manipulate and confuse."
"If we can get the shadows trust, it will help us," whispered Tzila, "I know it will…you just have to earn its trust."
"Who is this shadow?"
"It's the Jack Rabbit," Tzila said softly, "Its shadow…the Enchantress stole it from us."
"The Jack Rabbit?" Charming said, sounding incredulously. Jefferson sat in the corner, stiff as a board. However, it went completely unnoticed by everyone else in the room. Archie made a curious expression tapping his knee.
"Why does that reek of a Wonderland Character?" Gold asked, his voice filled with sarcasm. Red looked at Tzila sharply as the Mage whispered, "Perhaps…"
"You mean you don't know?"
"It will seem less manipulative if you don't know much," Ryaden said, "It might sense a second party at play and it might not react nicely."
"Alright," Charming said, crossing his arms, "Where can we find it?"
"You'll have to wait till night and for the moon to be high in the sky," Tzila said softly, "The shadows cannot become visible without it. Once it's found you be prepared to fight because it will view you as threats until you've proven yourself."
"Alright," Archie said, leaning forward, "So we know how to fix one problem. How are we getting the children back?"
"We have a way," Ryaden said, "But we need for Sage to reunite with Alison before we can attempt to get them back."
"And let me guess, that's all your saying," Belle said, staring at Tzila with a penetrating gaze. Tzila looked apologetic and whispered, "I'm sorry, please just be patient a little longer. Sage should be able to find Alison soon."
"And hopefully snatch her before Jack can do much," Ryaden mumbled. Gold shifted, obviously not happy with such an answer. Belle gripped his arm as Kathryn spoke up, "What about Jane and Baelfire?"
"They are safe at the moment," Tzila murmured, "But Baelfire's rage is immense. I didn't get much of a chance to say much to him as he stormed out of the room."
"Will he be able to help Emma?"
Tzila remained quiet and swallowed. August was staring in her direction but didn't seem to be actually watching her. He seemed lost in thought, almost worried about something. Tzila let out a shaky breathe as Ryaden said coldly, "Baelfire is going to do what he has to do. Emma and Snow will find the power to bring themselves home. For now, we need to get that shadow back."
"Are we done?" Charming asked, his voice sounding very angry. Ryaden narrowed his eyes as Tzila rubbed her temples. Gripping his hand tightly, Ryaden said coldly, "Yeah, we are done. Rumpelstiltskin, Kathryn, Jefferson, keep your seat because I'm not done with you three yet."
Red looked down at Kathryn, who gave her a nod saying, "I'll meet you at the diner."
Red nodded as Charming got up and stalked over to the door. Archie got up and followed after him saying, "David, wait!"
Regina shifted, looking uncomfortable. Red watched after him and August walked up to her saying, "Come on. Let's head on down to the diner. That way we can decide how we are going to capture this shadow. Are you coming Regina?"
Regina looked surprised but then smiled weakly and nodded. Red looked briefly uncomfortable but then smiled at him and nodded. The group walked out, Red give Belle a warm smile. Belle smiled back and Gold noticed. Leaning over, Gold said softly, "Why don't you go with them? I'll meet you at the diner after I'm done here."
Belle made a little expression of protest but Gold shook his head. Sighing, Belle gave his arm a friendly squeeze and got up to walk out of the room after them. The door shut behind them as Gold stood up walked over, cane in hand. Ryaden glared at Chess and said, "Beat it, Cat. I need to talk to these three."
"Hey," huffed Chess, "I wanna know-!"
"You want to know what curiosity did to the Cat?" Ryaden said, darkly, "Get lost now."
Chess huffed and disappeared without another word. Jefferson waved the residue smoke away from his face. Kathryn looked back at him as he got up and walked over to one of the chairs near her. Gold stood by one, staring at Ryaden and Tzila with a hard look. Ryaden leaned back and sighed. Running his hand through his hair, Ryaden looked at them saying, "I bet each of you is wondering why you are here."
"And I would rather you tell us sooner than later," Gold said shortly. Ryaden glanced up at him and said, "Don't give me attitude, Stiltskin. It's bad enough Prince Charming is becoming less charming…"
"We have called you here because there has been quite a discussing in regard to Alison," Tzila said, softly, "That is what Baelfire, Jane, and I were discussing for a good portion after discussing how to get her back."
"And how is that going, by the way," Gold said, his voice sounding slightly urgent. Tzila watched him before looking at the others. Ryaden cleared his throat and said, "We have a plan on how to get the children back. The biggest positive is that we have figured out that she is actually not with Jack."
"What?" Kathryn said her heart in her throat. Gold looked surprised and Ryaden said, "We found Jack, he is at the castle injured. We have been able to determine that Alison is somewhere else in Antic."
"Must have been from Granny's Arrow." Kathryn whispered and Gold said with irritation, "If she's not with him and not with the children, how do you know she's safe?!"
"Because the lights in Storybrooke's lights are still shining brightly," Tzila said quickly, "If she was hurt, those lights would definitely weaken."
Gold looked unnerved and Tzila said, "I understand your worry, but please understand that she has allies in that world. She will be okay…"
"So why are we here?" Gold said impatiently, causing Ryaden to grit his teeth. Tzila grasped her husband's arm firmly as she said softly, "There has been a lot of animosity with you and Jefferson. Alison is known for many things, especially being the youngest of all Mages, but also for being persnickety about teamwork. If you don't learn to work together, she'll make you wish you had."
"Don't let the innocent face fool you." grumbled Ryaden, "She's a dreadful little ankle-biter."
Gold almost made a pointed glare at him when Tzila cut in promptly saying, "Regardless of all that is happened, memories or no memories, Alice choose to love the both of you. You two now need to work together so we can fix this town."
"Over my dead body," Jefferson said flatly.
"Jefferson!" Tzila said, her voice filled with disapproving.
"I couldn't agree more," Gold said, scoffing slightly.
"Stow it, Imp!" Ryaden snapped, his eyes stormy. Gold suddenly stood up straight, his voice taking an edge as rage became more apparent.
"I've worked with him only once since that damn deception," Gold's motions with his hands were more rigid than usual, his magical aura becoming more apparent, "And that is because that little ankle-biter gave me something about a thousand times more precious in return! Something in which she is still paying up on and won't be able to settle anytime soon because of this damn mess! So no I will not work with him!"
"You self righteous-!"
"Enough."
The room went dead silent, the loud commanding voice shocking every single one of them, except for the dark haired mage. She only smiled as Kathryn stood up and gave the two men a pointed stare saying, "This isn't about what either of you two wants. It is what Alison is demanding of the two of you, what she needs from both of you. If we don't stop this Anti-Magic soon, everyone will be consumed by it and Alison will be left alone with the other children to fend for themselves. Do either of you really want that to happen?"
Gold's face went to his usual impassive stare as he watched the woman before him. Jefferson gritted his teeth but shook his head. Kathryn looked politely satisfied as she said, "Then put aside your differences and work together in saving this town."
Gold watched Jefferson and Jefferson watched Gold; both holding looks of distain. However, Jefferson was the first to extend his hand. Gold's eyes went from his hand to his face before reaching out to shake it. Tzila looked pleased as Ryaden looked thoughtful. The two let go and Kathryn said, "Well, now that we have that out of the way, let's get to the diner and figure out how to get this Shadow back."
Gold and Jefferson said nothing more, but left the room with a calmness that left Kathryn at ease. She bowed her head towards the Mages before following after them. Ryaden watched her shut the door behind her and he said, "I like her."
Tzila looked down at her husband with raised brows. Ryaden looked up at her and scowled as he said, "What? I'm just saying she knows how to keep an even head."
"Mhm," Tzila said, with a smirk. Ryaden scowled and said, "You're the one that invited her, not me. It's nice not to have to but heads with someone."
Tzila chuckled and said coyly, "Why do you think I wanted her to stay?"
"Well Miss Know it All," Ryaden said, pulled her onto his lap, "What is your plan when they come here to skin us after finding the Jack Rabbit."
"Don't worry," Tzila said softly, "The Enchantress won't give them a chance to even breathe when they have the Jack Rabbit."
"ENCHANTRESS!"
She winced as she heard the bellow but showed no signs of fear. Anti-Magic exploded behind her, the curtain being ripped away from the mirror. The Enchantress turned to look in the mirror to see her apprentice standing rigidly. Her dress fell about her legs, rustling as she moved towards him. Her dark eyes looked emotionless as she watched him, but her lips held a trace of a frown. Stopping at the mirror, she gazed into his eyes to see the storm brewing in them. Her voice was calm but her words truthful.
"I'm sorry, Bae."
"Sorry? Sorry?!" His voice was thunderous but it was hurt as well. She closed her eyes as the man before her continued, "I TRUSTED YOU! You promised you would take care of her! Instead you send my baby girl into the heart of ANTIC!"
She showed no outward sign of distress, the unearthly aura taking precedence. Baelfire seemed to have grasped the edges of the mirror, obviously trying to show some restraint. The Enchantress opened her eyes to watch him as he hissed, "You said you would protect her! What could she have possibly done to you that would justify punishing her!"
"Nothing," her voice answered simply, "She has done nothing to me, Baelfire. She has something of Jack Frosts… he needs it back."
"So you hand her over to him just like that?!" Baelfire fumed, "After you poisoned him, you think he'll treat her so nicely? That world is her opposite to begin with, you dense woman!"
Enchantress didn't speak out at his insult, but her face did show a ghostly distaste. Baelfire pushed off the mirror and turned his back on her. He then said clearly before the image disappeared, "We're done."
The Enchantress watched the mirror for a moment as she traced its edges. Any distaste was gone, leaving her face impassive. If the room hadn't seemed lonely before, it definitely was now. Stroking the wood, the Enchantress cooed softly, "It's was the only way to free you, my love."
"Bae?"
The man before her, was propping himself on the table. His head was bowed and his form was rigid. Jane watched him, her eyes wide. There was a silence between them, one she did not like. Walking over to him, Jane gently forced him to show his face only for her to stop a whimper in her throat. Out of all the faces she had seen him make, this was the worst. It was sad, lost like a small child unknowing what to do. Tears prickled her eyes as Baelfire said, "Forgive me…"
Jane kissed him, demanding in nature. Baelfire followed, slow and unsure. It wasn't normal for them, for him to be so meek. Even in the beginning, he had always kissed her like he had been doing it all his life. Now it was like he was waiting for permission. She didn't like it; she didn't like what he might be thinking. Jane slid her hands to his face, stroking his wet cheeks. She pulled away, a look of exasperation on her face. Baelfire's look did not change and Jane said, urgently, "Don't lose your head! Not now! We need to find a way to get to Antic! To get her back from Jack Frost before anything else can happen."
Baelfire swallowed, some sort of determination returning to his features. He looked white as he said gravely, "We have to get Emma to fix Islet… it's the only way for us to get to Antic. We need to go get Snow White before anything else happens to them."
"At least we don't have to go through the maze," sighed Jane, embracing him briefly before walking over to one of the long tables she had. Picking up her weapons of choice, she belted them on her as she heard Baelfire behind her.
"You know they may not trust us if they know of my alliance with the Enchantress."
"Doesn't matter," Jane scowled, "We just have to prove we have aligned interests."
"So what's the plan for this Jack Rabbit?"
August sipped his coffee, putting it back down on the table. Regina, Red, and August were sitting in a booth at Granny's Diner. Granny was at the counter where Grace was sitting, talking away with the elderly woman. The dwarves sat in a corner of the room, murmuring to themselves even though no cursed residents were in the diner. Regina sat next to August on the outer seat of the booth, looking slight uncomfortable. Red looked impassive as August said, "Unfortunately, we are going to have to try and figure out who exactly this is. I mean, how else are we going to have it trust us unless we know more about it?"
"Fair point," Regina said, "But how do we do that?"
"The Mage's said it would come to us," August said, "But we'll have to wait for the moon is out. The Shadows can't come out until the moon is visible. We'll want to be in open area, like the park. I'm sure if we take turns there, it'll come out for one of us."
"It's already becoming dark," Regina said, looking out towards the window and August said, "Then Regina, you take the first watch and I'll come to relieve you. Take this."
August pulled something out of his bag, revealing that it was a walkie talkie. Handing it to Regina, August said, "Use it if you get the slightest suspicion of anything, I'll be close by."
"Shouldn't there be more than one of us?"
"It might not come if we're in big groups," August said, "Where it was sighted had been in sight of only one person."
"I see," Regina said, taking it and putting it in her bag, "I'll head there now."
Regina stood up abruptly and walked away without another word. August watched after her, seeing her hastily leaving the diner. Letting out a little sigh, August turned back to his coffee. Picking it up to take another sip, August was interrupted by Red's words.
"I can't help tonight."
August looked at her with a surprised look and Red said stammering, "I-I have things I have to do."
"The full moon," August said, his face dawning with comprehension, "The cloak…you don't have it."
Red looked stricken as she asked defensively, "How-How do you know-?"
"I'm one of the writers of the book and also," August said tapping his head with his mellow smile, "I lived with Mr. Know it All."
Red couldn't help but snort at that and August said, "Don't worry; your secret is safe with me. Do you really not trust yourself after twenty eight years?"
"I-I don't want to take a chance," Red said with worry, "Gold said the cloak went missing from his shop weeks back, and I haven't changed in so long…"
"I get it," August said gently and Red bit her lip, look around the diner. She remembered his previous words and said, "Mr. Know It All… you mean Autumn's dad?"
"Yes, he was always the smarter one," August said, "And I see you call her Autumn still."
Red blinked and then said with a weak stammer, "I-It was a slip of the tongue."
"Hey, don't worry about it," August said, leaning forward, "In all honesty, I thought it suited her."
Red gaped at little. August laughed softly, saying more to his mug than to her, "If you saw her jumping in a pile of leaves, you would understand."
Red bit her lip, a smile threatening the break out. August didn't notice as he stared at his mug, rotating the cup slightly in his hands. Red tilted her head as August said exhaling, "I can't begin to tell you how much of a shock it was to find out that Alison was still alive. Baelfire and I were focused so much on avenging her that it was a slap to the face to find out she had been here. I suppose it's just my luck that everyone I ever swore to protect would end suffering from my screw up."
"That's not true," Red said, shaking her head slightly. August scoffed and said, "I'm the one that was supposed to get the savior to believe, to be there for her and I wasn't. I'm the one that was supposed to be watching Alison; I'm the one that let her out of my sight for two seconds. I was the one that came to Storybrooke and ignored all the signs screaming that she was the little one we lost so long ago. And now she's been trapped in Antic after I swore to Bae that I would protect her."
Red watched the man before her, staring into his mug with a depressed look. Smiling softly to herself, she reached out and grabbed his hand saying, "Well… I know this might not be of any consolation. But if you never lost her, we would have never had her. I know it sounds selfish but… she was important to Granny and I and we never would have had her if you guys found her."
August looked up into her warm smiling face as she said, "Even when you weren't here, she was always telling stories about the crazy stuff you and her dad did."
Snorting, August looked down shaking his head. August grasped his mug and said, "Baelfire was always telling her too many stories."
Red laughed and leaned back, smiling warmly at her. August smiled back and said, "Thank you…. for what it's worth, I think you'll be just fine tonight. I'd even go as far as staying with you if you'd let me."
"No," Red said suddenly, "No thank you… I'd rather not take that chance. Besides, who else would I have to sit and have coffee with?"
"How about me?"
Red looked over to see Belle coming in and standing by the table. August jumped up with a gentleman smile upon his face, motioning for her to sit down. Belle smiled warmly and sat down in the booth. August made excuses and walked briskly out of the diner. Belle watched him leave before turning her attention back to Red. Red stared down at her own mug and heard Belle say, "He seems really nice."
"Who? August?" Red asked, looking up at her with a strange smile, "Yeah, he…we've been talking together ever since he came to town."
"Oh," Belle said with a knowing smile. Red rolled her eyes as Belle giggled softly. Leaning back, Belle said with a more serious voice, "Still, we should probably check the last sighting for clues. I figured if we went before sundown-."
"I can't."
Belle looked at her with surprise. There was a dark look on Red's face, one that was more painful than evil. Shifting slightly in the seat, Belle said anxiously, "I know Rumpelstiltskin isn't always the benevolent person-."
"It's not that," Red said quickly, "There is something else I have to do tonight. I'll meet up with you in the morning."
Red raced off to the back of the diner without another word. Belle watched after her with a concerned expression when she let out a sigh. Feeling a slight pressure on her shoulders, a small smile graced Belle's lips. Glancing up, she saw Gold standing there with a calm expression on his face. He stared down at her calmly and asked, "Are you ready?"
"Yes," Belle said softly, "Where are we heading?"
"We are going to find the Wondercats," Gold said softly, "They might know more about this Jack Rabbit…"
"I thought we didn't know where to find them," Belle said surprised and Gold said with a sigh, "I think I've finally found them…"
"Alright, everyone. Listen up!"
Gold looked up to see Charming and Archie coming out of the back. All eyes were on the Prince, who stood tall and had a somewhat commanding appearance. Being the Dark One, Gold never took kindly to those who were behaving irrationally. However, Charming not only held an irrational undertone he held an angry one as well. Gripping Belle's shoulder tighter, Gold felt his own impatience spike through the ceiling. Kathryn stood by the counter, looking around with a slightly confused look. Jefferson stood near Grace, kissing the top of her head. Archie was watching Charming with a nervous look.
"We need to capture this shadow," Charming said, "So here is the plan. We are all going to gather in teams to go after it. Rumpelstiltskin, do you have a way to capture the shadow?"
"Yes, I do," Rumpelstiltskin said with a frown, "But it might not be the best way to appeal to the shadow."
"I don't care," Charming said roughly, "We need to get this done, I'm tired of letting this Enchantress get the better of us."
"While I agree with your sentiment, I can promise that capturing it won't leave it completely unharmed," Gold said, his voice slightly edgy, "Tzila won't like-."
"Don't care what she wants," Prince Charming said flatly, "They have been responsible for all the delays we've had and if they are in no hurry to bring Snow and Emma back home, then I'm in no mood to play civilities. So are you going to help us or not?"
Everyone looked from Charming to Gold, giving the later a rather pointed look. Belle was looking nervously at Gold, who held an impassive stare. Waving his hand, a box appeared in the middle of the room. It was black in color, the lid closed tightly. Gold gave Charming a look filled with warning as he said, "This box will be able to trap it. However you will want to get this somewhere no one will be around. The shadow will put up a fight and I can't say after trapping it, it's going to be too willing to help."
"Well, I know I will not be assisting you," Jefferson said shortly, standing up with a hard look on his face, "I know the Jack Rabbit for one thing, and that's its marvelous temper. I refuse to be a part of any plan that involves harming it in some way. Come Grace, we need to get home."
Grace gave her father a worried look. He gave her a firm look and she slid off the stool. Charming watched them go with a heated expression. The diner door closed as Archie shifted softly and stood up. Charming looked back at him and Archie said, "I understand the frustration you feel, but Gold is right. It won't help us if we try trapping it and we need it to trust us. The Mage's said that it would come to us and they believe it will be willing to help us. Please let us not use this method until absolutely necessary."
Charming's looked became a little frustrated before becoming calm. He then turned back to the group and said, "Very well. The dwarves and I will cover the club where it was last seen. Granny take the other side of town with Kathryn."
"What about Regina?" Kathryn suddenly asked, looking around with a frown. Leroy snorted and said coolly, "What about her? We can handle this ourselves."
"Leroy's right," Charming said shortly, "We don't need Regina for this."
"Well if this meeting is at a close, we will take our leave," Gold said impatiently, obviously in no mood for this conversation. It was getting them nowhere. Belle stood up and walked away with him, leaving the diner. The dwarves got up, getting on their coats. Kathryn crept over to Granny and asked softly, "Where is Red?"
"She's…in the back," Granny said, evasively, "She won't be joining us tonight."
Kathryn looked impassive as she whispered, "Does it have to do with the full moon?"
"How is it everyone seems to know this?" Granny asked, testily and Kathryn said with a discouraged tone, "Alison had the book; I read it forward and backwards. I liked to know what she was reading. Besides rumors spread after the defeat of Regina. And as for your tone, I would rather you keep an even head."
Granny gave her a hard stare as Kathryn watched Charming head over to the dwarves. Archie stood up, gathering his coat as he left the diner as well. Kathryn looked back at Granny and said in a whisper, "I understand the frustration in the recent loss, but to disregard the Mage's in such a way is unwise! People need to start working together or we're going to pay the price in way we can't afford."
"He lost his family," Granny said, "He's just trying to get them back!"
"I know, but he isn't the only one," Kathryn said stoutly, "His anger needs to cool off or he is going to screw everything up for everyone. We need to stabilize these shadows."
"I know," Granny said with a sigh, "Trust me, he will do the right thing."
Kathryn watched after him for a moment and then sighed. Looking at Granny, Kathryn asked softly, "Do you really think Alice would be happy if we weren't working together with Regina?"
Granny made a face, but a look in her eyes soften as she said, "I'm going to the back. If you'd like to get her Majesty, I'll meet you at the forest line."
Kathryn looked slightly appeased as she said, "Thank you."
Granny sighed as she watched Kathryn leave. Charming then turned away from the dwarves in time to see Granny walking into the back. Curious, Charming followed her to see Red and Granny cleaning out the freezer. The freezer door seemed to have extra metal upon it with tools around to prove that it wasn't naturally so. Charming blinked and then asked, "What the hell is this?"
"We're building a cage," Red said as she pulled out a stack of pans, "Know anyone that wants thirty eight pans of frozen lasagna?"
"What?" Charming said incredulously and Granny said, sarcastically, "I know, no one would believe you if you told them my lasagna was frozen."
"No, why are you building a cage?" Charming asked as Ruby put down the containers. She looked put out as she explained, "Tonight's the first full moon since the curse broke for us. It's the first night of wolf's time."
"I thought you learned to control the wolf in you ages ago," Charming asked baffled.
"Yeah but thanks to the curse, I haven't turned in twenty eight years," Red said, "I might be a little rusty."
"What about the red cloak that keeps you from turning?" Charming asked, looking at her intently. Red shook her head and said, "It's gone, I even went to Gold and he said it was taken a while back. I have to do this."
"Red, I know you, I trust you. Snow trusted you!" Charming said, "I know you won't hurt anyone tonight."
"I can't take any chances; I won't let what happened to Peter happen to anyone else," Red said, walking into the freezer. Granny went over to put down the last of the lasagna containers. Red gave Charming an intentful look as Granny turned to lock her in. Red breathed in, her breath catching in her throat. Closing her eyes, Red whimpered at the memories of darkness she so longed to forget.
"Here we are."
Emma and Nibs climbed down to slope, slinking low in the bushes. Looking out, Emma saw the crystal blue water shining in the moon light. It was rather pretty actually, almost luring her to go dip her feet in. However, Emma was too busy scanning the cove for the mermaids this boy kept telling her about. All she could see were smooth rocks going across the cove to the other cliff side. He looked highly alarmed as Emma frowned deeply. Nibs was jarred out of his thoughts when Emma said blankly, "I thought you said the mermaids would be out by now."
"Yeah, out of the cove," Nibs said, his voice having a slight no duh to it, "Come one, this is the perfect time to go. They'll be out hunting."
Nibs walked ahead while Emma made a face. She followed the boy as they walked closer to the short and Emma was too busy looking around to see Nibs had stopped. She almost walked into the water when Nibs grabbed her arm and yanked her back. Emma yelped, stumbling backwards. She looked at Nibs with a wildly surprised expression as she said, "What gives?!"
"You can't touch the water!" Nibs said, indignant, "The mermaids will hear you!"
"So then, why don't we go around the lagoon?"
"Because the cliffs are too jagged! We'd never make it!" Nibs said, annoyed. He jumped onto one of the rocks and continued in a similar fashion. Emma made another face before following after him more cautiously. Apart from Emma stumbling along, Emma couldn't help but notice that they were actually going at a rather steady pace. There was a higher platform The end of their dangeroustravel was coming to a near close. It had been all too easy.
"AHH!"
Far too easy.
"What the hell?" Emma asked, turning around to see that something had crashed into the water's surface. Nibs, who was already up on the cliffs, look stricken and said, "Emma! We gotta go they're coming!"
Emma didn't know what possessed her to do it but she jumped back, reaching her hand into the cold water. Pulling the person out and onto the large rock, Emma's heart nearly stopped.
"That bastard," hissed Pied Piper, wiping his wet hair away from his eyes.
"What are you doing here!?" Emma snarled shock more than apparent on her face.
"What does it look like, woman!? That damn portal thing brought me here!"
Suddenly, Emma yelped as she felt something thrash at her legs, causing her to stumble into him. Looking at the water she saw a female face, her eyes dark as night and hair wet as rain. Her skin was a ghostly pale, almost like she was dead. Terror ceased her as Emma unconsciously pushed back into Pied Piper. Piper hissed and glared at her, but did not move away. Instead he gave a good kick at the mermaids face and she retreated back under water. However, Emma could see ripples in the water, bubbling up against the rocks. Emma and Piper then stood up in attempts to get further away from the rocks. Nibs, who looked horrified as he tried to think of what to do, found that the water was rippling right against the cliff he was standing on. Piper then thrusted his hand in his pocket as he pulled out his pipe. He blew into it, not allowing music to play but to spit out any water. Emma looked around for her spear but found that it was floating in the water. Great.
"What do we do now?!"
"Well, I don't know about you," Piper coldly and sarcastically responded, "But I don't feel like drowning anytime soon."
Emma yelped as a mermaid shot out of the water, digging her webbed claws into her calf. Piper blew a low strong note that made the mermaids just leaping out of the water freeze. Emma kicked off the mermaid, which let out a gurgling hiss. Emma moaned as she felt her leg tense up in pain. Piper glanced over at her, and Emma couldn't help but notice that brief glimmer of fire in his eyes. That fire screaming out to her. However the icy chill set back over him as he hopped onto the other rock. Emma followed with more struggle as they made it to the cliff side. Nibs managed to help her up, allowing her to rest safely on the edge. Somehow someway, Pied Piper single handedly climbed the cliff playing his little song. Standing on the cliff, Piper finally stopped playing his song as the mermaids were freed. They hissed and screeched, trying to jump up high enough to get at them. Piper scowled and barked, "Ah, go tie your tails to a net, you bleeding carnivores!"
Piper went to turn towards them when Nibs swung around, hitting him square in the head with his own spear. The older man fell to the ground, out cold. Emma's jaw dropped as she said, "Kid, what did you do that for?!"
"He sabotaged us!" Nibs said quickly and defensively, as if he didn't mean it. He then added more honestly and somewhat timidly, "You didn't seem to like him too much either..."
Emma looked down at Piper and then back up at Nibs, saying, "No…I don't."
"Who is he?"
"Someone I'm better off without," Emma spat bitterly but Nibs looked confused. She then sighed, allowing her anger to somewhat abide as she said, "Pied Piper."
"That's Pied Piper!?" Nibs sounded horrified and Emma watch his feature have agitation grow, "But-But Jane said he was nicer! He's not supposed to act like that!"
"Hang on, kid. What do you mean Jane?" Emma asked sharply, "Does he know her?"
"Know her?" Nibs said sounding almost petrified, "She's the reason he's Pied Piper at all!"
"Reason he's Pied Piper?" Emma asked baffled, "What do you mean?"
Nibs did not get a chance to answer her as she suddenly felt her leg ceize in pain. Letting out a gritted scream, Emma clutched her injured leg. Nibs flew to her side as he said with a bit of a panic, "Oh no. They caught you."
Emma couldn't bring herself to ask what he meant as he hurried over to Pied Piper. He pulled Piper over towards a tree as he began to bound him to it. Emma felt the pain somewhat subside as she choked out, "Wha-What are you doing?"
"I don't want him hurting us," Nibs explained, "We can't go on with your leg like that; I'm going to have to call for help."
Emma screamed as the pain shot up her leg to her hips and spine. Nibs ran over to her, calling her name over and over. Emma could not hear him eventually as dark came over her. Pain racked her body in ways that she could not begin to describe. A sob almost broke her lips as she heard a baby's cry instead of her own.
The diner was dark and deserted as there were sounds of vicious clawing in the back. Whimpers and cries of a canine could be heard as the vicious clawing continued. This black wolf thrashed around in her cage, let out barks and whimpers of protest whenever she could. It wasn't anger or bloodthirsty surges that motivated this creature as it once had, but a strong sense of loneliness. Loneliness and misery surged through the creature now, causing her to break savagely against the door. Outside the freezer, a flicker in the shadows moved about, forming into a figure that could not be seen where they were. Stretching out the small slender hand, the fingers gracefully moved into a balled position cause the freezer to rip open.
The wolf slipped on the floor, obviously somewhat is a stage of shock. It looked delirious, watching the figure approached with a little hop to the step. The moonlight shine from the window finally hit the shadow, allowing its person to be revealed. However the wolf was not yet herself, growling in response to the sudden approach. Her ears went back, as if preparing to lung. However, the figure beat it to it, pinning her so fast to the ground the wolf whimpered. Despite being small, just the one arm pinning the back of her neck down was strong enough to keep her there. Whimpering in submission, the wolf felt the figure pet her comfortingly. The shadow leaned down to kiss the wolf's head, the wild wolf now more tame.
Standing up, the figure hopped back, gracefully indicating for the wolf to come. The wolf stood up but looked at the figure warily. A small laugh seemed to escape the figure, echoing more than it should have in such a room. Hopping into the air, the figure beckoned with one figure as a light soft innocent voice echoed.
"Come with me, Ruby Red…"
~Storybook~
"Gods, Tortoise, this place looks creepy."
Aislinn was swiftly moving through the dark halls of what seemed to be a deserted castle. Light shone through the tinted windows, the red glass reflecting on the stone floors. Aislinn stopped at the corner looking down the dark stair case, looking curious. Jefferson was not too far behind Aislinn as he heard the March Hare whine from the strange device in his ear. Aislinn rolled her eyes with a smirking smile as the Tortoise could be heard saying, "Just be grateful nothing is attacking you yet. You get to save your energy for later."
"Might as well smash around, I'll have too much of nothing by the time it gets here!"
"Don't be daft, March Hare. Resting yourself will only insure a longer battle later."
"Resting yourself will only insure that you practice at resting. If you want to have a longer battle, you must practice your smashing."
"Must everything be a fight to you?"
"Everything to you must be a fight."
"Will you two shut up?! The little land invader probably could hear you crystal clear!"
"Can, my dear Cheshire Cat. The proper word is can," The White Knight could be heard suddenly.
"Nonsense, she used the right word," the Red Knight said, roughly, "She is talking about something that happened moments ago, which is past tense. So the proper word would be could."
"But our conversation is present so that is the tense that should be used!"
"Gods, this is what happens when we bring the party rather than go to it," mumbled Jefferson with an air of annoyance. Aislinn looked at him with raised brows and said with a mocking song, "Are you angry that we are not going to the festival?"
"Not angry," Jefferson said, "Although it is annoying that I can never just go to an event without having to bring it. Too much work, my love. I'd rather just smoothly sail through an evening."
"Like the sneaking thief I know you are," Aislinn said grabbing his scarf and pulling down so his face was closer to hers. The grin on her face was incorrigible and Jefferson couldn't help but smirk. Gently touching his nose to hers, Jefferson said, "If I hadn't been sneaking, I can't say you'd have a husband right now."
"Mmm, but then again, I could bring the party as I please without so much as a complaint," Aislinn teased, only to have Jefferson kissed her soundly before saying, "But then miss out on crazy adventures you could never have with anyone else."
"Will everyone put their minds back to the mission!"
Aislinn's grin faded a little bit before rolling her eyes. She and Jefferson continued on their way, walking towards the dark tunnel. Aislinn walked down the steps, light on her feet. Jefferson stayed close behind her as the Tortoise said, slowly, "You will need to head to the entrance hall. I read an energy in the hall that looks promising."
"Then away we go," Aislinn said, her grin barely seen in the darkness. Jefferson remained close to her, brushing his hand on her side as they went further down the corridor. The stairs seemed never ending as she let out a frustrated sigh. Jefferson couldn't help but smile and lean in to kiss her cheek quickly. Walking out into the doorway at the end of the onslaught of stairs, Aislinn looked around to see the hall of the Queen of Heart, stories above where they had originally began. Jefferson looked down and around as Aislinn walked forward and Jefferson murmured, "It will never cease to amaze me how we start at ground floor, take stairs DOWN, and end up farther up."
"Are you still not used to the ways of this land?"
Jefferson looked up to see the Cheshire Cat jump from a high balcony. Landing on her feet, she walked over with a grin on her face and said, "You would have thought making residence here you would have learned more about this place."
"I know what I know," huffed Jefferson as the knights came out from a small opening in one of the walls. They looked around with almost humorous seriousness. All could hear the Tortoise say, "March Hare, would you be so kind as to join up with the rest of the party."
"Still smashing things good friend, I'm not quite wound up yet!"
"Hooligan," mutter the White Knight.
"Agreed," The Red Knight huffed.
"Who dares enter my hall!?"
All looked down the long floor to see someone coming around the tent where the throne was. Aislinn watched as the woman came around, dressed in a rather elegant red gown. The neck was high, white in color as the red corseted bodice scooped around it. The skirts flowed always in a tradition ball gown that made Aislinn want to wrinkle her nose. Instead she grinned and walked towards the woman. The woman sat down as Aislinn did a little curtsy.
"I am Aislinn, the Mage of Wonderland," She said, looking bemused, "We came upon receiving the dead body of the former Queen of Hearts. Her sisters sent us with the intent of stopping said person from using her core."
"You came too late," the woman said with her lips curling up in a cruel victorious smile.
"I see that," Aislinn said, with a small clicking of her tongue, "Naughty, naughty. You don't even know the price that comes with cutting corners."
"I don't like to view it as cutting corners," the woman said her form proper but relaxed, "More like saving time."
"View it as you wish, there still a pricey tag that comes with it," Aislinn said, obviously having no qualms about getting closer. The group followed after her, keeping safe distance. Aislinn then said, "Well… what's done is done. As you are now the role player of this world I must tell you of the Game we are all obliged to play."
"Oh?" the woman said, "I have little time for Games."
"Then you shouldn't have cut the corner," Aislinn cooed mockingly, "Because now you are engraved."
"Engraved?" the woman said and Aislinn said happily, "The Engraving that you cover with your gloves. It will burn, adding to your bloodlust until you are just as bad as the previous queen before you."
Aislinn's eyes glittered strangely as she said, "I assuming that bloodlust isn't an issue with you, however."
The woman smiled coyly and said softly, "Time will tell."
"Look out!"
Aislinn felt the Hatter grab her, yanking her back as something crashed down in front of them. Aislinn untangled herself from him as she saw a man straighten up. Upon seeing his appearance, Aislinn suddenly became very aware as to just who they were dealing with.
"You're late," smirked the White Rabbit, adjusting his red tie. Aislinn made a look of disgust as she watched the masked rabbit tip his hat slightly. The Queen smirked and said, "Meet my new pet. White Rabbit, please show the guests our hospitality."
"Yes, Mistress," he said, a slight tone of distain in his words. Aislinn raised her brows as the White Knight said with a scoff, "I see you are still bouncing around from Role Player to Role Player."
"I serve whomever is worthy of me," White Rabbit said smoothly, his deep voice almost vibrating, "It isn't my fault your Mage was not worthy."
A scythe appeared in his hands as his smirk became more arrogant. Aislinn gritted her teeth and held out her hands, as if to summon something. Just as the White Rabbit disappeared out of sight, however, he appeared right in front of her. Aislinn crossed her arms, as if in defense. The White Rabbit swung upwards, reading to strike.
"Are you ready, laddie!?"
The White Rabbit disappeared with an umph and the March Hare stood in his place. He held his knife out with an insane grin as the White Rabbit scoffed. There was a big hole in the wall as the Rabbit stood up, brushing off his clothes briefly. They couldn't see his eyes through the mask, but they could definitely see his irritation. The woman's irritation grew as well and said, "What is this? More Hooligans?"
"I think it's time we evacuated, Aislinn."
"Nonsense, Tortoise," Aislinn said, "He's just getting started."
"She has a whole army coming to her disposal as we speak. And if I remember correctly, the White Queen told you to be safe."
"I hate you eavesdropping on my conversations," Aislinn said stoutly.
"Then don't agree to things you have no intention of agreeing upon."
"I don't like conversations I can't hear."
Jefferson nearly leaped forwards as a nasty looking flame shot towards her. Aislinn didn't look bothered as she caught it with ease. Looking towards the new Queen, Aislinn got a strange look in her eyes. The White Rabbit lunged to protect its Mistress but the March Hare sprung at him once more. The woman barely had time to look surprised as Aislinn appeared before her, pinning her to the throne she was sitting on. Gasping, she looked at Aislinn with shock as Aislinn held a dark looking grin on her face saying, "If there is a conversation that I want you to hear, I shall let you hear it. So listen carefully so you don't forget."
The woman watched as the fire in the Mage's hand was placed on the throne as it burned at instant touch. The Queen hissed as she felt the flames touch but not burn her back. Aislinn said clearly, "If it was my responsibility and time, I could END you."
Aislinn released her and she said, "Unluckily for you, it is neither. Now if you will excuse us, we shall take our party elsewhere."
The group disappeared in a whirl of smoke, leaving the White Rabbit and the Queen alone. She rubbed her neck as she said softly, "I underestimated her… but it won't matter soon."
"Are you well, Mistress?"
The Queen glanced at her and said, "I would be better if you'd not let someone get that close again."
The White Rabbit grimaced and nodded. She smirked and said, "Good. Now retreat to your hole, I will have further instructions."
The White Rabbit disappeared and the Queen sighed. Clapping her hands, she said, "Knight, I summon you."
A man came out from behind a pillar and approached her with calmness. His disheveled hair hung in his face, his uniform being the only thing neat about him. It was red in color, hearts embroidered on his thick jacket. She smirked and said, "Nice to see you in uniform. I have something that I need from you."
A glint appeared in his eyes that most would take offense to. He came closer to the Queen, only for him to gasp in pain. She was faster than a Wondercat, her hand plunged in his chest. He stumbled back as she removed it, holding a glowing heart in her gloved hand. She stared at it with greed as she looked at him saying, "You are completely mine now. Mine to bend to my will. Now gather the forces. We have a party to get to."
