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. So off we go, read and review. I give credit to Bizzarieve, for he has once again helped me with the brilliant idea's that are his.
Chapter Forty Seven: Final Stand
Nibs was running at break neck speed.
He was almost at the top of the peak, panting but adrenaline rushing through him. He had to get to that Archway, he had to get there first. If he didn't then he would surely lose it. Lose that small little light that had grown in his heart. Emma.
Nibs finally reached the top.
The Archway stood at the very edge of the peak, old and covered in dead moss. To some, it would be grand and inspiring. To Nibs, it was a looming threat that he had to conquer. Clenching his spear, he knew what he had to do. He had to destroy it.
But the question was how?
"Who intrudes in my domain?!"
The voice was loud, ringing in the surprised boys ears. However no one could be seen as Nibs looked around the entrance for any sign of life. It was until he looked away that he was blasted back by green electricity. Nibs yelped as he hit the ground, green electricity crackling around the now glowing green archway. The ground began to shake as the wind began to pick up. Nibs found himself only able to look up when he had fallen onto his back. It was something of a whale, an almost dragon looking creature that Nibs had never ever seen before. Electricity was bursting from it as Nibs found himself frozen in fear.
"You dare to bring weapons in my presence!" the creature thundered, "You conceited little child!"
Nibs yelped as the electricity threw him backwards. It was like a heavy punch, one Nibs had never felt in all of his confrontations. Nibs hadn't even recovered himself when the creature was charging up again. Nibs cried out when he felt his body begin to burn.
And then it was gone.
The creature let out a painful roar as a large amount of electricity was shot into the Archway. His vision blurred in and out, his head pounding violently. Nibs felt someone grab his shoulders and yank him away. Nibs couldn't tell how long he had been yanked for. It wasn't until he felt himself being sat down on the path that he realized it was Emma.
"Nibs! Nibs! Can you hear me?!"
"Loud," Nibs muttered as his vision cleared. The Electricity was flying around on the top of the peak but nowhere near where they were. Snow and Rapunzel looked relieved as Emma looked frantic.
"What were you thinking?! Why would you go after that-that thing alone!?" Emma said and Nibs felt a rush of anger pour out of his mouth in a rush of words.
"Because you're being like that!" Nibs snapped.
Emma looked shocked as she said, defensively, "Like what?!"
"Motherly," Nibs snapped, "Your being motherly."
Emma watched with her shock as she watched Nibs glare. His face was stone cold as she watched the emotions that were running through his eyes. Anger, confusion, and much to Emma's aghast betrayal. Emma couldn't help but relate to the look in his eyes as he said his voice slightly breaking, "You have Stray Eyes, you can't leave…"
"Stray Eyes?" Snow asked in confusion.
"Not now," Emma said dismissively. Snow look put out as Emma put a hand on Nib's shoulder whispering to him.
"Nibs… you've helped me in more ways than one. In the craziest way we connected in a way that I've never had. In the foster system, you fight for yourself and no one else. On this island, you made me feel like we could make this place our home. If I knew you would do it, I would take you back with me. If I knew I could stay, I would…"
"Then stay!" Nibs begged.
"But I can't," Emma said softly. She smiled weakly and said, "How could I bar my son from the wonderful adventures he had a right to have."
Nibs looked surprised at her answer as did Rapunzel. Snow, however, smiled weakly as Emma watched Nibs earnestly. Nibs looked abashed as Baelfire, Jane and Piper descended to where they were. Baelfire's arm looked as it had gotten burned, the sleeve ripped up. Jane began to heal him, pouring a potion on it. Snow looked concerned as she asked, "Did you-?"
"Yes," Baelfire said with a grimace, "But it's not happy. Nibs what the hell we're you thinking?!"
"It doesn't matter," Nibs said impatiently, "Not anymore… What do we do now?"
"Nothing, because you are heading back to the lost boys!" Jane snapped. Nibs looked infuriated but Jane towered saying, "No, there will be no fighting about it! If Islet see's you, he'll never trust us!"
"If I talk to him, if I heal him-!" Emma said quickly.
"You really think he's going to let you anywhere near him with Nibs?" Jane asked sharply.
"Fine, then just keep him down here!" Emma said sharply. She stormed past Jane and Baelfire, obviously annoyed. Baelfire began to stand up saying, "Emma, don't-!"
"No offense, but don't tell me what I can and cannot do," Emma snapped shortly, "You're injured, she's healing you, and I'm not waiting."
Piper suddenly put a hand on her arm however and said urgently, "Emma-!"
"What?!" Emma asked sharply. Piper didn't look perturbed but he did say earnestly, "Don't go up there angry! You want to get back to Henry, right?"
"Yes," Emma said flatly.
"Then don't go up alone," Piper said, "Let me come with you-."
"Thanks but no thanks," Emma said sternly, and then leaned in. Piper didn't move as Emma said lowly, "I need you in one piece. If I don't make it back, you get them home."
"Then wait till he's healed-!"
"You think that thing is gonna treat them any differently than Nibs?"
Piper was quiet and Emma sighed shakily, "Just…let me do this. Please."
Piper didn't know why he did it, but he stepped back. Emma ran up the path, as Jane shouted, "Emma, just wait-Emma!"
Baelfire looked up at Snow, who was watching after her daughter. Baelfire narrowed his eyes and asked heavily, "Why aren't you going after her?"
Snow stared after with a somewhat vacant expression and said, "Because I have faith in our Savior."
Odette nearly screamed.
She had been sitting by the lake side, reading a book in the fire light. Torches were lit all around as she sat in the night. She had been so entranced by the story she was reading that she didn't hear the person coming up from behind her. She jumped a mile high, about to scream when the person covered her mouth saying, "Odette, it's just me!"
"Siegfried!" Odette looked relieved but exasperated. He sat down beside her as she looked worriedly back towards the home. She looked back at him and said nervously, "What are you doing here?! I thought you and your mother would not be back for months!"
"I had to see you," Siegfried said smoothly, "I was doing business in town nearby and thought I would come see you."
"My father is away, he doesn't like guests here when he's not here," Odette said, slightly put out. Siegfried smiled and said, "I doubt he mind a few minute visit."
"I'm afraid he would," Odette said, getting up to her feet. Siegfried looks surprised as he got up with a sigh. Odette began to walk back towards the house as Siegfried followed her saying, "I understand that you're worried about him-!"
"Worried is an understatement," Odette whispered softly.
"But you have the greatest Mage who ever lived as your father," Siegfried said reassuringly, "Your sister is a powerful sorceress, you must believe that they won't let anything else happen to you."
"Your optimism is comforting, but it is also misguided," Odette said, her voice cracking, "Their magic can't protect me for long…"
"Why do you not believe-?" Siegfried said, his voice frustrated and confused.
Odette interrupted, stretching out her hand. Electricity formed in her hand, crackling into a crystal shape. It was beautiful in a strange way, something that Siegfried was in awe over. Siegfried watched as it disappeared.
"My mother has become cursed," Odette whispered softly, "She had been pregnant with me. My father looked far for a cure and found some sort of mineral… This mineral had stopped her curse, but it gave me a strange power…. A magic neutralizer so to speak."
"A magic neutralizer," Siegfried said slowly, "But if it disables it, then how was he able to curse you?"
"The curse was stronger," Odette said miserably, "Much stronger. I haven't been able to break it…"
"Then there must be another way!" Siegfried said, bravely, "True Love's kiss can break any curse!"
Odette's heart soared, taking off without her permission. The dark night seemed to brighten, the moon growing bigger. Siegfried looked at her intently and said, "Unless I've misread things…"
Odette leaned in, kissing him softly. Siegfried kissed her sincerely and lovingly.
"It is not that simple, my deaarr…."
Odette and Siegfried were practically thrown apart, hitting the ground hard. They both looked up to see a terrifying shadow coming out of the ground and flying into the air. The shadow was terrifying, a darkness that went beyond the color. The two of them got up and Siegfried stood in front of Odette. Gripping the sword handle, Siegfried listened to the shadows taunt.
"The kiss is not enough, you must prove it," The shadow taunted, "Prove the honesty of your love."
"Prove? How!?" Siegfried demanded.
"It doesn't matter," the shadow said, "You'll be dead within a minute."
"I highly doubt that."
The shadow suddenly shrieked, shooting up towards the sky writhing in pain. A burst of shadows appeared and Tzila stood between them and the shadow. Her appearance was messy and beaten; her sleeve bunching up strangely. She outstretched her arm as she held her skirts in her other hand. The power eradiating from her was frightening, making Siegfried unsure if they should be standing so close. Tzila clenched her hand as she said, "I can't stand dealing with wisps like you."
"Lady Tzila!" Siegfried started, panicking as the shadow bubbled and deformed. Tzila's power spiked suddenly as the shadow burst apart. The magic about the woman disappeared but Siegfried was wary. Odette was deeply breathing as Siegfried asked, "Did you kill-?"
"No," Tzila said, grimacing, "Killing it won't help us. Not now. But it will stay away long enough…"
Odette looked at her sister and noticed that he sister's sleeve was torn; a dark bruise forming on her delicate skin. Tears filled her eyes, Odette whispered, "Tzila…"
"You may stay at night," Tzila said, shortly, "Next time I would appreciate you to wait till my father is home."
Tzila brushed past them, obviously indifferent. Odette felt tears slip down her cheeks as she said, "I need to go…"
"No-wait!" Siegfried stopped her, "I'm sorry."
"Siegfried-."
"Please, just allow me to say goodbye and offer you what I came to offer you," Siegfried said, "An invitation…"
"Invitation?" Odette asked, obviously upset.
"To a ball," Siegfried said quickly, "My mother is holding a ball; I came to invite you and your father. A ball for me to find a companion…"
Odette's heart lifted a notch as Siegfried whispered, "A wife…lets show the world we are not afraid to show our love."
Odette allowed him to kiss her briefly, before allowing him to lead her inside. Odette saw a flash of Tzila's skirts as she disappeared up the last staircase. Odette felt extreme guilt, knowing that she had been in the other world all night. Odette knew better than to go to her now, however, she couldn't offer her anything in assistance. Siegfried noticed her distress and asked, "What is it?"
"Nothing," Odette said softly, "Let me show you the guest chamber."
"So that is the famous creature the Jabberwock?"
Howl blinked as he watched Charming standing in the courtyard in front of the Town Hall. The sky was dark, the blue and purple tainting the clouds. Many people were on the ground in front, unconscious and slowly breathing. Charming scoffed and kicked a person's arm at his feet. Howl made a face as Charming said, "It doesn't seem as terrifying as I've stories of it. Just a big mess maker."
Charming glanced back at Howl and asked, "I suppose that's what we get from an infected creature."
"It's not infected," Howl said bored.
"What?" Charming turned around and Howl rolled his eyes. He took a step forward as he said, "The Jabberwock is a creature OF Anti-Magic. It's why Wonderland has some more advanced technology than the Enchanted Forest. They don't have Anti-Magic wielders, as they all run on their beloved drugged up magic. However, they've been known to harvest it from the Jabberwock's nest."
"Then how did the Enchantress get a hold of the Jabberwock if she didn't poison it to her will?"
"I borrowed it."
Charming looked to see the Enchantress walk out of the town hall, look tall and proud. Howl let a little bow escape him but Charming stood with his arms crossed. His face looked haughty and the Enchantress raised her brows. She then said, "A certain queen allowed me access to her pet collection. But regardless, I came to tell you we are successful. The Blue Fairy is out of the equation."
"Obviously," Charming said, somewhat rudely, "Why was she such a problem anyway, she didn't have much fairy dust to do anything."
"Fairies have enough strength to wield the power to destroy the machine," The Enchantress said, making a small face, "It seems my apprentice made sure that it had some weakness."
Charming glanced at Howl with a darkness that would have made the Wizard flinch. The Enchantress, however, said to Charming flatly, "My apprentice's are from two different worlds, one of Magical Might and one of a Systematic Science. After all, I am a user of both worlds… Needless to say Howl is not the one who created the machine."
"Two?" Charming's voice was slightly intrigued.
"Yes," The Enchantress said, walking towards the middle of the courtyard, "But that is a story not for me to speak…but rather for you to learn."
The Enchantress waved her hand, and the ground began to shift. Dark holes appeared and something big appeared in the ground. The Statue-like structure finally appeared with the seven other stones in a circle around it. Four of the stones just had the feel of ordinary stones. Three, however, were still fuming with Anti-Magic. Charming narrowed his eyes and asked, "If you were so worried about them disarming the device, why bring it above ground? Surely it would have been better protected down below?"
"What is the difference, Charmless?" The Enchantress mocked, "They knew where it was anyway."
The Enchantress flicked her hand upwards and said smoothly, "Get yourself ready, I have a feeling they will be coming for us as soon as those Mage's gather up their army."
Charming smirked and wandered away with a strut in his stride. Howl rolled his eyes and said, "He's quite obnoxious this way. Are you sure that they will be back to fix him?"
"Of course," The Enchantress said quietly. Her voice was flat and it made Howl uncomfortable, "Baelfire stressed that the Charming's would do anything for one another."
Howl watched her silently, refusing to move. The Enchantress reached up and touched the statue of the man. The statue had ruins cracked into it, leading to the middle of the man's forehead. In the center there was a rather large gap in the stone where people could see the light colored stone. As Howl watched he saw there was a darkness swimming in it. Howl felt a chill go down his back as he said with a playful arrogance, "What a creepy statue…why did you have him design it like that?"
The Enchantress's eyes darkened, as if remembering something unpleasant. However, her face remained placid as she said, "A piece of me… A symbol so to speak. However it isn't a concern for you."
"Oh?" Howl asked, his voice a little curious and nervous, "Why not?"
"Because," the Enchantress said, "I'm giving you leave."
The Enchantress turned, her dark dress twisting about her legs. It was the same dress she had been wearing at the start of all this. However there was a glint in her eye that Howl hadn't seen in a very long time. Howl took a step closer as he said in disbelief, "Giving me leave?"
"In a sense," The Enchantress said, seriously, "I have an important mission for you."
The Enchantress held out her hand, a scroll in her hand.
"After you complete it, you and Sophie may leave to prepare for your babe," The Enchantress said softly, "I will not require your services for this mission any longer."
Howl was quiet for a moment, his face becoming solemn. The Enchantress looked as blank as usual, despite that glint in her eyes. Howl stepped forward and asked softly, "And what of Baelfire? Alison? Are you to permanently entangle them in your web?"
The Enchantress flinched, which was a reaction that made Howl surprised. She breathed in deep as she whispered softly, "They both have destinies to fulfill… It is to my sadness that they will not cross."
Howl made a face and said coldly, "Am I to believe that you are not the reason for it?"
"You believe what you wish, Howl," Enchantress said, "But Alice is very important. Her role will bring about a role player that we shall be in dire need of."
Howl looked at her suspiciously but the Enchantress shook her head. She then said, "Howl, play father to your child. Do not try to be father to another. Now go, before you cannot leave at all."
Howl bowed, almost mockingly before walked into shadows. The Enchantress then looked back up at the statue emotionless as she said, "It's time for my chaos to come to an end."
The man hiding in the shadows of the debris and trees made a face and said, "Looks like the finale is coming."
Tzila shut the door to her room, grimacing. Reaching up to touch her shoulder, she pulled the ribbons to pull loose her outer dress. She allowed it to fall to the floor, her grey under dress pulled together by strings at the back. The sleeve of that was also mangled and Tzila impatiently ripped the remainders of the sleeve. The bruise was terrible, as was the pain. Tzila walked over to a dresser with a pitcher, bowl, and towel. Tzila poured the water into the bowl when she suddenly felt something grasping her hand. She looked back with a jerk as she saw Ryaden staring at her intently.
"Let me help you," Ryaden said simply.
Tzila paused, before nodding. Ryaden picked up the towel and dipped it in water. Bringing it to her shoulder, Tzila suddenly felt a cool magical impulse enter her skin. Tzila looked to see his hand glowing faintly. Ryaden was staring at the bruise, firmly staring at the slowly healing bruise. Tzila's heart skipped a beat at the suddenly impulse and couldn't help but watch him do it.
"A healer?" Tzila asked curiously.
"One of the more pleasant powers I use," Ryaden said impatiently, "Actually it's the only nice power of mine…"
"They can't be any worse than mine," Tzila said, with a slight scoff, "After all; you've just witnessed it yourself."
Ryaden didn't even flitch as she spoke. Instead, he continued to finish healing her as he said, "So you knew I was there."
"Yes," Tzila said stiffly, "I did…"
Ryaden noticed her tone and murmured with relief, "It was actually reassuring…"
"Reassuring?" Tzila said in a tone of disbelief.
"My world is involved in…a very deep grey zone." Ryaden murmured, "If my wife wasn't able to protect herself, it'd be another hassle."
Tzila's breath caught as she felt the magic leave her suddenly. The bruise was gone, leaving no trace at all. Ryaden was looking down at her with a gentle stare, one that was important to Tzila. It was an expression of acceptance. Ryaden put the towel down and made his way towards the door saying, "All done… I'll leave you to change."
"Ryaden!" Tzila stopped him from leaving and he looked down at her impassively. She stood on her toes, kissing his cheek gently as she said, "Thank you…"
Ryaden watched her a moment, as if debating on something. It was a brief moment that held Tzila's attention as he opened his mouth slightly. However, he merely bowed and left her room.
Sidney Glass sat in his cell looking rather forlorn.
It had been a look permanently etched into his face, his clothes rather disheveled. He had been alone for so long, the people bringing him his food never a comfort. Sidney gripped his hand tight when he thought of the person who stuck him there in the first place.
He would thought she would come for him, that eventually she would find some way to let him out. However day went by, digging deeper into his heart. Digging so deep that he was sure that there was nothing left to dig. He didn't know why he let his love blind him so severely, why he let sentimental feelings take root for so long.
There was nothing the Queen was willing to do for him.
"Such a fool," the man mumbled, staring at the cold floor.
"Perhaps."
Sidney looked up to see his cell door open to reveal a dark haired man. His eyes were cold but not so much as the queen he had once loved. He was dressed in a suit of grey and his shirt was as black as his shoes. The man walked in with hands in his pockets as he said, "It depends, my good man, how you plan to use such foolishness."
"Who are you?" Sidney asked suspiciously.
"No one to you just yet," the man said smoothly, "But someone with a deal much too grand to refuse."
"Sorry," Sidney said softly, "But I'm nothing of value to anyone."
"Quite the contrary," the man said, "I find Genie's, even former ones, to be quite clever. Considering my deal will grant you a chance to redeem yourself, I suggest you listen."
Sidney suddenly looked at him, quite intrigued and nervous. He stood up and said, "What could you possibly want with me?"
"I want aide," the man said, "Besides, it will get you out of this cell and finding vengeance on a woman who has put you so low. Interested, Genie?"
The man seemed intent, in facial expressions and all. Sidney looked at him, but nodded with some distasteful eagerness. The man nodded and said with a small bow, "My name is Avenant, and my friend we will have to make haste. The leader of our group will be here soon and I would rather not be late."
DAMN IT!"
The goblet crashed the mirror and shattered. The man looked beyond harassed as he threw his hands up into the air and shouted, "THAT DAMN SORCERESS! SHADOW! SHADOW, COME HERE NOW!"
The shadow slowly came up through the floor, obviously in pain. The Duke didn't care as he thundered, "You were supposed to take care of the witch and the prince! NOT give them the key to the undoing of my curse!"
"Trust me, Master," the shadow said smoothly, "It is better this way…"
"Who are you to decide what is better!" the Duke snarled, "If it was possible, I would punish you myself!"
"Master, the Mage would never give you consent to have his daughter," The Shadow said silkily, "Unless you held something he couldn't refuse."
"What?!"
"You know if they declare their love in front of the entire world that Odette's curse will break," the shadow said, "But if the prince were to declare his love to another woman then she will remain a swan forever…."
"Unless I summon back the spell," the duke said suddenly, a smirk appearing on his face.
"The Mage cannot kill you," the shadow said, "It is part of the curse that if you die, she will spend the end of her days as a swan permanently. So he will have no choice but to agree to your terms…"
"And what of her sister? Surely she will make sure she gets to the ball?"
"Leave the sticky details to me," the shadow said bowing. It disappeared into the floor as the Duke suddenly walked over to a chest, opening a drawer. Pulling out a strange necklace, the Duke then shouted, "ODILE!"
The door opened after a moment, revealing an impassive looking Odile. The Duke walked up to her calmly and said smoothly as he put the necklace around her neck, "Get yourself ready, my dear. We are going to your first ball."
"Wake up, lassie!"
Belle gasped as she felt a douse of cold water hit her head. Shooting up in the chaise, she found herself staring around of room filled with French doors, allowing dim light to come in. The March Hare jumped back, cackling as he fell back against one of the doors. Belle looked wide eyed at him as he sent something whizzing by her head. The china crashed against one of the doors and Belle jumped away, watching the scene before her.
"There we go, Rabbit!" roared the March Hare, obviously quite amused with himself. Belle was about to open her mouth in confusion when two pairs of hands grabbed her arms. Belle looked back wildly, yanking her arms instinctively.
"So this is Alice's favorite!" Dee said, tugging rather hard on Belle's arm.
"Pet, pet! I wonder if she barks like one?" Dum asked pulling on her other arm.
"Of course not, Alice don't do pets, just favorites," Dee scowled, yanking her arm the other way.
"Who are you!?" Belle asked, trying to get away from the pair of them.
"He's Tweedle Dum!"
"He's Tweedle Dee!" Dum said heatedly before asking innocently, "What noise do you make pet?"
"She's not a pet, I told you that," Dee said rolling his eyes.
"But Alice was her favorite," Dum said, "Made her the Queen's pet. So she's Alice's pet!"
"I'm not-Ow!" Belle screeched as Dum pinched her.
"A cat then!" Dum said, pleased.
"Dum," Dee said rolling his eyes, "You're obviously not listening. She's a bird!"
"SOD OFF THE LOT OF YOU!"
Dee and Dum were flung back, disappearing in a whirl of smoke before they hit the glass. The March Hare cackled, throwing a cup at the man's head. The man dodged it before hollering, "GET LOST BEFORE I DECAPITATE YOU!"
"Off with his head, off with his head!" the March Hare cackled before disappearing in a flash. One of the doors crashed open. Gold scowled as Jefferson came in the room behind him. Jefferson nodded and said, "Nicely done."
"I hate Wonderlanders," growled Gold.
"Yes, I have to agree about most of them but Alice, Autumn, and Alison love them, so we must cope."
"I-What just happened? How did I get here?!"
Gold turned and embraced her tightly, saying, "You're safe…safe…"
"The Wonderland Crew were charged with making sure you were safe," Jefferson said shortly, "It was part one of our orders before Alice got rebooted."
"Part one?" Belle questioned but Jefferson said loudly, "But unfortunately, she did not specify how gentle to take care of you and THIS RABBIT let them wake you up."
The White Rabbit could not be seen but his low laugh echoed in their ears.
"Mistress told us made sure she was in safety, they did not do anything to jepordize that. Now if you shall excuse me, I need to prepare."
"Coward," Gold growled.
"Much like you," Jefferson said with a stab, "Come, everyone's waiting."
"Waiting-What's going on!" Belle demanded.
"It's the shield," Gold explained, "She set the Jabberwock on it Belle. It's broken."
Belle swallowed hard, looking very nervous. She stared at him and asked shakily, "We lost?"
"Not yet," Gold said grimacing, "But that woman is winning right now. She's unleashed the Jabberwock."
Belle gripped his arm tightly and followed Jefferson and Gold into another room. Tzila and Ryaden were waiting by the desk, Tzila sitting on Ryaden's lap. Oz stood near the desk, standing by Zoie. All four of them looked grave. Red stood behind Granny, who was sitting in a chair. Regina was standing near a window with Kathryn. Midas was not too far from them, fiddling with his glove. Archie, Nova, and the dwarves were sitting on the couches. Belle looked at them all and all of them were solemn.
"Well what a somber party," Jefferson said lamely, walking over to his own spot by a window. Chess appeared next to him and said with his arms crossed, "Well of course, the time for cheer is not here."
"Shut up, you two!" Ryaden snapped. Tzila shifted as Oz said, "With some spying, I have discovered what happened to Prince Charming."
"What happened?!" Red asked immediately, "What did she do to him?!"
"Howl Jenkins got a hold of a rare item," Oz said, "Something called the Heart of Darkness."
"Well that sounds pleasant," Grumpy said.
"Who's Howl Jenkins?" Red asked.
"He's a sorcerer from another realm," Belle said suddenly. Everyone looked at her in surprise as she turned slightly pink saying, "I've read a book about the world he comes from. A world called Ingary… It much like ours in magical influence but uses more spirits and demons…"
"Well that sounds lovely," Regina said sarcastically, "But what is this Heart of Darkness?"
"It's something that uses the darkness in ones heart and multiples it by ten," Zoie said, shortly, "We believe that the Enchantress used it to get Charming on her side. It's a spell that can be broken."
"Well now what do we do?" Kathryn asked.
"We have devised a battle plan," Tzila said, "It involves a lot of risk, but if we can do it right we can defeat the Enchantress once and for all."
"And how do you propose to do that?" Gold asked sourly.
"It involves us splitting up into groups," the Enchantress said, "One to go after the Machine fueling the Anti-Magic shield, the other to deal with the Jabberwock."
"And I suppose you three have figured out who's going where," Granny asked wearily.
"Some what," Tzila said, "Our spy told us that a fairy is able to somehow to use powerful enough magic to stop the machine. All it needs is the person who turn the machine off to allow access inside it."
"And that's where you come into play," Ryaden said to Regina. Regina nodded slowly as Ryaden said, "Red, Grumpy, you will have to take Nova to deactivate the device with our spy, Regina, Kathryn and Midas."
"Nova?" Red asked as Grumpy made a strange movement. Tzila nodded and said, "The Blue Fairy isn't an option. I believe Nova will work just as well."
"And just who is this spy?"
"That would be me."
Everyone froze, quite a few craning their heads around to see a man walk in. Gold watched on darkly as Red asked sharply, "What is Whale doing here!? He's tainted with Anti-Magic."
"As much as some would agree with you in a heart," Whale said smoothly, "I'm actually the only one handling this new power well."
"Sure you are!" Regina snapped coldly. Whale glanced at her darkly as Ryaden said with a sigh, "I know it's hard to believe, but he's the only one that's been able to keep a level head. He's been spy for us ever since Sage let him out."
"Sage?" Granny said in disbelief, "He let him out?!"
"Of course," Oz said in a taunt almost, "After all, Doctor Whale…or Frankenstein if you want the truth, is from his world."
"You're Doctor Frankenstein?!" Archie said surprised.
"Yes," Dr. Whale said calmly, "I am."
"If he was really on our side, why attack Regina like you did?"
"None to the offense, but I highly doubt any of you would react any differently if you were separated from your loved ones," Dr. Whale said icily.
Red was quiet, as was many others. Shifting slightly, Ryaden said, "Look, we've stuck a deal with him. I promise he won't be doing anything shady."
"And how are you going to promise that?" Gold asked sharply.
Ryaden looked at Whale intently and said darkly, "Let's call it an insurance policy."
No one in the room wanted to know what that meant. Whale shifted and said, "I have my things ready. They have moved the machine to in front of the town hall. She's ready for a finale…"
Tzila's expression went dark as she said, "So be it. I ask that group to get ready. I'll have back up ready if things get too messy."
Red nodded as Regina left the room promptly. Midas led his daughter with a grave face, Kathryn looking troubled. Red left after biding Granny farewell, Whale following her with his eyes. Whale followed her behind. Gold looked impassive, not allowing an ounce of emotion to show. Belle was standing next to him as Granny asked, "Now…how are we going to kill this Jabberwock creature?"
"You cannot…"
Everyone jumped as the hiss reached their ears. Chess seemed to shrink a little as Sofronia came out of the shadows with her daughters. Her eyes were stern, unmoving as she said smoothly, "The Jabberwock is a crucial piece to our Kitten's future. You can not kill it."
"What are you talking about?" Gold asked coldly.
Sofronia gave him a hateful look as Jefferson interrupted with a poem:
"Beware the Jabberwock, my son! The jaws that bite, the claws that catch! Beware the Jubjub bird, and shun The frumious Bandersnatch!" He took his vorpal sword in hand, Long time the manxome foe he sought—So rested he by the Tumtum tree, And stood awhile in thought. And as in uffish thought he stood, The Jabberwock, with eyes of flame, Came whiffling through the tulgey wood, And burbled as it came! One, two! One, two! And through and through the vorpal blade went snicker-snack! He left it dead, and with its head He went galumphing back."
"Pretty poem," Granny said dryly.
"It's all about Alice, ya know," Chess said lazily.
"It said He," Belle said, frowning.
"Which proves it means a she," Sofronia said firmly, "The Original Mage said such a poem, he would not be so obvious to make any mention of he or she."
Belle made a face, which only seem to anger the leader more. She towered over them as Ryaden said, "Our best bet is going to be to lure it back into a portal to Wonderland."
"Ahh, portal jumping," Gold said his voice filled with sarcasm, "So much easier said than done!"
"Well actually," Oz said suddenly, "It has just become easier."
"Why?" Jefferson asked immediately.
"Because we got access to a certain hat," Ryaden said, raising his hand to show a top hat. Jefferson froze as Ryaden continued, "All we've got to do is lure it to the hat, and we can suck it back to Wonderland."
"As I said, easier than it sounds," Gold said with venom. Ryaden narrowed his eyes as Tzila said, "We cannot kill it. Even if we could, we don't have Alice and we don't have the vorpal sword."
"And if it ain't vorpal, it ain't dead," Chess said smoothly.
"And there can be no other slayer." Sofronia said.
Belle shook her head in disbelief and said, "She's ELEVEN! She can't be slaying anything."
Sofronia's eyes glinted threateningly and she said, "What part of future did you not understand… and don't ever tell me what my Kitten can and cannot do. She gave up the memories she held most dear, gave up an entire part of her soul to get it!"
"What's the point, she told you everything," Gold muttered bitterly. Sofronia walked towards him, lunging almost. Belle retreated back behind Gold as he stood up straight, grasping his cane. Sofronia said, "She may have told my son that you two were close, but she told him only scraps and pieces of the chessboard. Your deals, your memories, those she kept to herself. She would never betray such special moments to him or anyone else."
Gold's face went impassive as Tzila said, "The Jabberwock will be inclined to go after Wonderlanders. The Cats will lead it to the place. All Ryaden and you lot will have to do is contain it and distract it."
"You mean offer us up to be eaten," Gold said, his voice trembling with rage, "Not happening."
"Rumple!" Belle started as Gold left the room promptly. Belle bit her lip and ran after him, leaving the people in the room alone. Jefferson was rigid as Ryaden muttered, "Coward…"
"It isn't cowardness."
Ryaden looked mildly surprised to hear his wife's cold tone. She gave him a pointed glare and said, "Ryaden, out of all the things that reaction was, it was not cowardice. The Jabberwock has been known to scare people into eternal sleep. He has every right to refuse."
"Rumple!"
Gold finally stopped as Belle caught up with him. She looked desperate as she said, "Don't, please don't go. They need your help-."
"They will be fine without me," Gold said, rigidly.
"No, they won't," Belle begged, "I know it's daunting-!"
"Daunting!?" Gold tone was high as he spun around a towered over her. Belle swallowed hard as Gold said, "This is war, Belle! If we don't just kill the creature, we will die!"
"And if you don't help them, they will die!" Belle protested.
"And if I die?" Gold said, testily, "If we die… Alison comes back to find our dead bodies. Or WORSE: she dies in the snow all alone? I promised her she wouldn't be alone, that I wouldn't ever leave her!"
Belle let tears run down her face as Gold turned away and said, "Let's go…they will be fine-."
"I'm helping them."
Gold looked at Belle incredulously as she stared at him indignantly. He stepped forward as he said, "Are you mad?!"
"No," Belle said, her voice stern and unmoving, "I'm not. I am helping them send the Jabberwock back to Wonderland. They need help, whether you're willing to give it to them are not!"
Belle turned and Gold grabbed her arm, his face filled with a sudden fear. Belle stared at him stubbornly as Gold half shouted, "The Jabberwock is a creature that relishes fear! You have no idea what fate lays in store if you go!"
"Maybe," Belle said stiffly, "But I am not sitting back and doing nothing."
Belle stared at him and stroked his cheek with her hand. He looked frightened, so much so it tugged sorely at her heart strings. She looked forlorn as she said, "Promise or no promise, I can't stay. If you're not going to help, fine. But if you don't prove the good in you, I don't know how we can be together."
And with that Belle left a shivering man.
"Odette!"
Tzila screams did not reach the weakened swan that flew away from the castle. Tzila ran through the gardens will Ryaden, who had a permanent scowl engrained on his face. Tzila was beside herself as she said, "I told Siegfried to wait! I sent my shadow to tell him!"
"I don't think it made it to him," Ryaden said, stoutly, "Whatever delayed your father clearly stopped your shadow."
"Indeed."
Tzila and Ryaden watched as the shadow shot out of the ground. Tzila's face hid none of the darkness she felt and Ryaden didn't do anything to stop her. Her own shadow fled from the shadows and back to Tzila. Tzila doubled over in pain as Ryaden grabbed her. The shadow cackled and said, "Now she will forever remain a swan, punished for all eternity…"
"You're Master won't be pleased," Ryaden said stoutly, "He won't be able to break such a curse on her."
"True," the shadow said with a hiss, but soon my master will no longer be an issue," the shadow said with evil inside, "I will soon be the Master and he be nothing more than an unpleasant memory."
"Shadows," Tzila murmured, "Always the replica of the Master's true intentions."
"Soon to be a replica no more," the shadow said, "I will find a bride more worthy of me, with more strength. It's a pity my Master was able to take away your abilities for reproduction. You would have been perfect, Queen of Shadows."
Tzila froze as Ryaden asked, "What are you talking about?"
"The Master punished both daughters… her punish was more humiliating. She is unable to bear children…"
Tzila screeched sending a blast of magic in its direction. The shadow escaped however and Tzila snarled. Ryaden grabbed her however and shouted, "Pick your battles! We still have to find Odette!"
Odette's conscious weakened.
Her heart was heavy, as she flew towards the lake. His words, the words meant for her pierced her like knives. She knew it had been a trick, that he was tricked. But it no longer mattered as he still said them to another woman. If Swans could cry she would. Her will grew dimmer as she sunk into the air. Her vision began to black out as she fell into the water.
"Odette!" Tzila would have jumped into the water after her if arms hadn't stopped her. It wasn't Ryaden who did, as he ran to the water side and dipped his hand in. Tzila looked up at her father fearful as he looked grave. Ryaden's face grew dark as he looked back at the Master and shook his head. The Master closed his eyes tightly and allowed Tzila to sob hysterically into his shoulder. Her sister was gone… they had lost.
Odette couldn't breathe.
She was sure this was what it was like to be dead. She was sure the water would forever be her grave. In fact the light that suddenly burned her eyes made her think she was. Until she saw what it was that was making the light. The woman's skin was fair and her hair dark as night. Odette would have swallowed if she could have felt anything.
A Siren.
"Little Swan," the Siren said smoothly, "What heartbreak I sense from you. What a cruel fate a man has given you…"
Odette had no response as the Siren grasped her gently. The Siren gazed intently as he as Odette was sure she would truly die now."
"We punish men, my dear," Siren said, "Not females, we must stick together after all. Do not fear me, your fate is not done yet. I will give you power, a power people will fear and love. A power to guard the innocent…"
The Siren kissed Odette after saying, "A power…for justice."
Odette felt her limbs burn, her changing happening right under water. She thrashed at first but then allowed her eyes to close and be still. The Siren parted and disappeared as Odette changed before the eyes of Fates.
And the name Odette changed too.
"NOO!"
The Duke smashed his hand down, fuming. The little swan was gone now. Throwing things across the room the man shouted, "SHADOW! SHADOW, COME HERE YOU LITTLE DEMON!"
The Duke of the Frontlands choked.
He was lifted off his feet as the shadow appeared by him. The Duke was wide with fear as the shadow said, "It is time for you to learn the price of dark magic fool."
The Duke couldn't even let out a scream as he felt his body burn into nothing but ashes. Ashes that flew around the shadow, building what looked like an image. Soon the shadow looked like the man before him, merely lacking a shadow at all. He smirked and said, "Much better. Much, much better."
Emma swore, not knowing why she came up here alone.
Well, that was a lie. She was being stupidly heroic, that's what. Thinking that Baelfire, the son of Rumpelstiltskin, couldn't handle himself. Emma walked up the path to the top of Dead Man's Peak. She didn't know how to use magic. Fighting it would be completely out of the question, it was so huge. Keeping low, she hid behind rocks that prevented her from seeing the scene on the flat top.
"Who disturbs me…."
Emma swallowed, considering for a moment not answering. She breathed in and said loudly, "Emma Swan… I'm the-."
"The Savior…" the creatures voice rang out, "Yes I know… you also whisked that boy away from me."
"Yes," Emma said hesitantly and desperately, "I know. I'm sorry. He just… he didn't want me to leave. He was trying to stop me."
"He came with weapons to attack me," the voice rumbled, "Many would not forgive…"
"I know," Emma said, worried, "But you can't really want to hurt a child. A child who just wanted to not lose a friend."
"The Master of Trickery Isle," the creature said, sounding a little put out, "Teaches boys their lessons… this land disgusts me with their ways of no consequences…this land is my opposite. This archway hasn't worked for centuries because of my distain."
"Please," Emma said, taking that as cue, "Forgive him, he's not from that world. How unfair would it be to torment him with consequences that he hasn't had in forever?"
"Then it is a lesson long overdue."
"No, please, if you do that he'll be aware," Emma said tearfully, "And then he'll have to leave and he's not ready for that. His home is here… don't take that away from him."
"You," the creature murmured softly, "You are lost… but you are not of this world."
"Yes," Emma said after a moment, letting the conversation take course.
"You have a child?"
"Yes," Emma said, "A son… I need to get back to him. There is danger at home and I need to make sure he doesn't get hurt. Please… I know you said the archway doesn't work, but I need you to make it work."
"You are not the first woman to beg for me to open a portal," Islet said, the voice rumbling, "She had a child too… And begging is not the way it works…"
"Then how," Emma asked, desperately, "How does it work?"
Islet groaned, a groan that rumbled the earth. It sounded painful, which made Emma worried. She looked around the rock to see the whale lying across the entire mountain top. It was obviously in pain, it's small beady eyes watching her. Emma felt a rush of pity come over her as she walked over to it saying, "What's wrong? What's happening to you?"
"I have been deprived of my magic," Islet said with a groaned, "Magic that originated from your world. The sorceress's anti-magic has wounded me…"
Emma knelt by him and hesitantly stroked it's rubbery like skin. It closed its eyes as Emma asked, "How-how do I fix it?"
"Why would a woman like you help me?" Islet said, "I could easily squash that bug of a boy."
"Because you were a victim of her too," Emma said, her face going impassive, "I may not know you well, but NO ONE deserves to be at someone's mercy like that. Now how do I fix this?"
"Believe," Islet said with a rumble, "Believe in the magic within you, allow the magic to take you over. Trust it, and it will come."
Emma bit her lip and positioned her hands on its skin. Closing her eyes, she breathed in. Emptying herself wasn't hard; she spent a life time trying to feel nothing. But to believe… it made her troubled that she couldn't think how to do it.
"Think of someone you trust with all your heart," the whale said, "Think of someone you believe in."
Emma smiled immediately, thinking of a face of a boy she loved dearly. A warmth filled her, from her toes to her nose as she looked up towards the sky. The Whale let out a rushing roar and began to disappear into a sea-green light. It turned to swirling smooth smoke, pouring into the Archway. The archway continued to glow as Emma continued to smile. She looked towards the Archway, where she heard the voice say.
"Thank you… Rumpelstiltskin chose the Savior well…"
Emma smiled weakly as she stood to her feet. There was scrambling up the Cliffside as Snow, Rapunzel, Jane and Baelfire made it up the cliff. Piper was last as Snow raced to Emma, hugging her tight as she said, "You did it! Oh, I knew you could do it!"
"Yeah, I guess I did," Emma said stunned. Looking around, she saw Baelfire gave her a smile and said, "Well done, Emma Swan. Now we can go."
Emma frowned as she looked around and asked, "Where's Nibs?"
Jane's smile flickered as she said, "He left with the other Lost One's. He's never one for goodbyes, it's just not their way…"
"Won't say goodbye because goodbye means forgetting," Snow said softly, her smile of same value gracing her features, "How very Peter Pan like…"
Emma looked at Snow in surprise, as did everyone. Snow looked affronted as she said, "What?! Why is everyone surprised when someone other than Henry quotes things!?"
Piper snorted as Baelfire said, "Well now the portal's up and running again, I suppose for now we'll be going our separate ways."
"Wait," Emma said, "You don't want our help?"
"You need to get back to Storybrooke," Baelfire said, "You're its Savior. You have to make it safe for everyone again."
Emma made a face but Baelfire reached forward and grabbed her hand. Her mark began to glow as she stared down at it impassively. Baelfire said, "My daughter believed you had strength in you. The fact your life wasn't always a fairytale made her able to connect with you that much more. That's why she knew you were worth of this mark."
Emma smiled weakly and said, "There were times I could have sworn she was ready to kick my ass."
Baelfire smiled and said, "After you went to break the curse, she never doubted you again. After all, she called you the strongest link for a reason."
Emma smile grew stronger and Baelfire said, "Now go. I have to wait till after you all leave."
Emma nodded as Piper went to walk past her. He stopped briefly, waiting for her. Emma looked at him and walked with him. Snow patted Jane on her shoulder and said, "Thank you, for all your help Jane."
Jane smiled and bowed slightly saying, "My pleasure, Your Majesty."
"Snow," Snow White said sweetly, "Just Snow."
Snow then parted, taking Rapunzel with her. Snow noticed the worry on Rapunzel's face as they approached the portal. Snow squeezed her arm as she said, "Don't worry. I think it's about time that baby got bigger, don't you think?"
Rapunzel couldn't help but laugh and nod vigorously. All four went towards the portal, Baelfire and Jane watching them with impassive faces. They soon disappeared within the portals light and left them alone. Jane watched nervously as she expected the portal to close completely. Minutes went by, and the portal remained open. Joy entered Jane's features as she said excitedly, "It's open to us…Bae, we can go!"
Bae caught her mouth in a full on kiss, obviously just as pleased. Jane kissed him back with eagerness before parting enough to allow him to speak, "Let's get our little one back."
"How disgusting."
The voice echoed, but was not one of Islet. The sky suddenly grew dark as the clouds rolled in. Jane and Baelfire went from confusion to horror as snow and wind fell at insane paces. The Portal did not close but ice began to quickly imprison it. Jane looked remained as horror as Baelfire's went dark than his nature would dictate. The snow swirled around as a woman appeared before them.
"I've never been one for happy endings," Morgana said, distastefully glaring at them, "Especially went it's yours."
Tzila sat silently in the chair.
She was in her rooms again, staring out the window. Her hair was done and her dress a midnight black. Sorrow was clearly overtaking her as she watched the gardens. No more sister tending to the plants, no more singing and dancing. Just emptiness. She didn't even hear Ryaden enter the room as she normally would have. Ryaden stopped a good few feet away from her chair and said, "It seems the whole Kingdom is in mourning."
"Of course," Tzila said in no more than a whisper, "First we lose Odette…and then Siegfried drowns himself in the same lake in hopes to save his soul. It is a good reason to be in mourning. We can't even do anything to the Duke without causing endless wars…endless suffering."
"Indeed," Ryaden said, "I doubt your sister would have wanted that."
"No," Tzila said with a weak smile, "She wouldn't."
Ryaden shifted and said, "I know this sounds selfish, but I was relieved."
"What?" Tzila said.
"What the shadow told me," Ryaden said, "About you and bearing children."
Tzila hid her face in shame as Ryaden strode over and knelt before her. She looked at him in misery as he said, "You are a strong, beautiful woman. Your grace is enough to make up for my ill bedside manner, but you could easily win a fight if you had to. I worried that you would want children… which is something I'll never do."
Tzila's breath caught as she asked confused, "Why?"
"Because as much as would love to raise them with you, I won't," Ryaden said testily, "In my world, my bloodline is hereditary. It's been passed down through generations through generations… sacrificing anything a family should be for it. I cannot put a child through such torment and pain. My land is about making boys face the consequences of all play and no work. It a terrible burden to have."
Tzila watched him with a distinct admiration as he bowed her head before her. Ryaden murmured, "I'm sorry… but I'm not sorry."
Ryaden felt Tzila tilt his chin up and he thought he was about to get smacked. However, what she did was entirely the opposite. Her kiss was sweet, loving. Ryaden succumbed, lifting her into his arms effortless and spinning her. Tzila laughed and said, "Such a pretentious man."
"Says the woman who just kissed me."
Tzila smiled weakly as Ryaden stroked her cheek. He then whispered softly, "Come... let's go home?"
It wasn't home to her yet, he knew that. But it was a beginning. Tzila smiled weakly and nodded. Ryaden took her to the mirror in her room as he said, "I have to warn you... the Isle is never like anyone imagines it to be."
Tzila smiled more sincerely and said, "I think I can handle it."
"This place is amazing!"
Alice walked out from the bathroom into the large bed room. She was dressed in a silk night shirt that went down to her knees. The pants were simple, not uncomfortable. The outfit was pale slate blue and her feet bare. Gretel was dressed in an outfit similar to hers, but it was gray. Hansel and Henry were dressed in white night shirts with pants, sitting on the bed. The room itself was grand, the walls smooth stone. The chandelier illuminated a pale light that spread throughout the room. The two beds were made from an ivory wood and the sheets were strange lacey quilts. There was a long pillow on each, white in color. Alice made a face as she said, "I suppose so…"
Gretel watched her friend, watching her stare around the room. Slowly, Gretel felt the lump in her throat return. There was a presence around her friend, something horrifying and familiar. The boys watched as Gretel walked forward and asked, "Alice?"
Alison didn't seem to be paying attention, looking around the room. She looked thoughtful as the children watched her. Something seemed to be bothering her. Hansel noticed that just as something was bothering Alice, something was bothering Gretel.
Before anyone else could speak, the door opened again. A maid came in, holding a dress over her arm. The dress held a tulle skirt with satin at the torso. The skirt sparkled, and the color was the palest blue she had ever seen. The woman was smile warmly and said, "Here you are, Magesteria! All hemmed and ready for your big debut tomorrow."
"You call challenging Jack Frost a Debut?" Hansel said incredulously. The woman seemed to completely ignore his comment and Henry elbowed him slightly. The maid put it on the hanger and said sweetly, "Beautiful weather isn't it?"
"If you like the out of the blue blizzards," Alison said, obviously perturbed by the woman in the room.
"Wonderful, wonderful," the woman swooned, "The nice clearing will allow for a wonderful ball tomorrow."
All the children were completely baffled at that point. Alison held a look of distain as the boys looked confused. Ava, however, was more vocal and said, "Are you talking to someone else, or are you just not listening?"
"The music will be something to behold," the maid said friendly like, smile at them with a polite stare, "It such a wonderful thing to listen to. Well, if you need anything else, please don't hesitate to ask."
"Of course," Alice said with a sigh. The maid curtsied and waltzed out of the room. Ava gapped and asked, "Is she dumb?"
"No, no," Alison said with a sigh, "The people of this world are… strange. They hold polite, courtesy conversation and behavior above all else. At least that's what Jack told me…"
"Isn't it polite to answer people's questions?" Hansel asked, confused.
"Not if it pertains to something bad," Alice said, sitting on one of the beds. Her hair was slightly damp from washing it, hanging down in front. Gretel went and sat beside her. Gretel bit her lip and said, "Your hair looks strange shorter. Healthier though…"
"I imagine it would, Darren never let me cut it off," Alison said softly sadly. Gretel went rigid as Henry winced. Hansel gapped and said, sitting up on the bed, "You remember?"
Alice didn't looked back at him but stared at the floor saying, "Reuniting with your shadow does that to you…"
"Reuniting?" Gretel asked immediately, "You mean you lost it."
"Yes," Alison said softly, "I did…"
Autumn woke up with a scream, her body on fire.
Or so it had felt as she writhed on the floor of the mining tunnel. Autumn cried as she felt the Anti-Magic entering her. It hurt, hurt so much more that she even thought it would. She wasn't a part of the curse; she should have been able to cross without problem. But there it stood, the Anti-Magic of the shield, clashing against what felt like her very being. A sob escaped her mouth as she couldn't even move.
"Damn it-hold on a second."
Autumn suddenly felt herself being pulled out of the range of the shield. Sobs wracked her body, her savior weaving in and out of her vision. A certain man's face was looking down at her with worry as he said, "Autumn, someone will be by to help you. I just need you to breathe until they get here."
"Wait-Whale-Wait," Autumn tried to raise her voice only for him to disappear. Autumn moaned, the pain still making sobs escape her. Footsteps could be heard again, getting closer and closer. Would it be a friend or a foe?
"Regina! Oh my god, REGINA! She's down here!"
"Emma," Autumn whispered weakly. Emma rounded the corner and so did Regina. They both ran to her as they bent down beside her. Regina pulled her up into her arms as she said, pushing back Autumn's hair from her face. Autumn cried, she couldn't stop it. Emma was beyond worried and frightened as she said, "Kid, relax, we're here. Help is coming soon."
"Regina," Autumn said, her breaths sharp and uneven, "Please…I need..oww-!"
"Need what?" Regina asked, her voice shaking and terrified, "Please, keep talking."
"I'm going to tell them where we are!" Emma said before racing down the tunnel. Regina rocked Autumn gently as Autumn coughed and sputtered. Autumn finally was able to ask, "Regina, did Gold teach you about shadows?"
"No," Regina said weakly, her voice broken and filled with weeping, "No I can't, it's a skill I never favored when learning. Why?"
"She's down here!"
Emma came around the corner with Ryaden and Tzila. Ryaden pulled Autumn out of Regina's arms. He looked stricken, a kind of worry neither Regina nor Emma had seen. Tzila knelt down beside her as Ryaden tried to heal her. His look worsened as he tried as Autumn begged, "Tzila…I'm sorry…"
"Shhh, don't apologize," Tzila said, "French should be the one apologizing…"
Autumn coughed as Emma shifted helpessly. Tzila tossed them an object and said, "Call the White Rabbit. Have him take you to Oz. Tell him we need the medic room ready as soon as possible."
"Right! Come on, Regina!" Emma said as Regina gave Autumn one last pain-filled look. She too then left leaving the three Mage's alone. Autumn gasped as Ryaden tried healing and he growled in frustration. Tzila looked even more worried when Autumn whispered, "I-I'm always asking you to do stupid things. I'm sorry…"
"You haven't asked anything yet," Tzila said.
"Except asking to spare a pirate's life," Ryaden said, gruffly.
"Ryaden!" Tzila would have slapped him if it hadn't been so dire he keep his focus. Autumn smiled weakly as tears ran down her face saying, "As I said, I ask you to do stupid things."
Ryaden couldn't help but smirk at that as Autumn continues, "And this is gonna sound like the stupidest of them all. You have to take off my shadow."
"What?!" Tzila asked sharply.
"Please," Autumn said, "You have to take it off. I can't do it again, I can't forget. Please take it off."
"Dear, you're out of your mind," Tzila said, "You won't be forgetting anything if we don't heal you."
"You and I both know she doesn't want me dead," Autumn whimpered, "And the only thing worse than that is forgetting. Take it off!"
"Alison!"
"TAKE IT OFF, TAKE IT OFF NOW!" screamed Autumn, kicking her legs violently.
"Damn it, Tzila, just do it!" Ryaden said suddenly, his voice sounding wretched. The woman was clearly in pain, not wanted to do as she was asked. But she had never been able to say no to the child. Tzila said raising her hand, "I'm sorry…"
Tzila grabbed the shadows and yanked. Autumn screamed, Ryaden grabbing onto her. He hugged her tightly, burying her into him. Tzila finally succeeded, the shadow flying up. Tzila waved her hand and it disappeared into the darkness of her own shadow. Autumn stopped screaming, but she let out broken sobs. Ryaden picked her up and disappeared into smoke.
"So you had them take your shadow off…" Gretel said slowly, "To ensure you would remember."
"Yes," Alice said softly, "I did.
"Why not just tell everyone to attach your shadow?" Henry asked, earnestly, "Then you would have remembered."
"Then the Enchantress wouldn't have had anything stolen from Bezaleel," Alice said, "She was holding a WHOLE WORLD hostage, trying to find something to use to strengthen her shield. And then she would have taken something else so much worse."
"But why your shadow?"
"Because at least it was a shadow that would give the Enchantress all the trouble she deserved," Alison said with a smirk. Gretel couldn't help but grin and said, "You never take anything lying down do you?"
"Never!" Alison said, grinning back. Henry grinned as Hansel let out a snort. Henry and Alison met eyes as he said, "It's good to have you back."
"Like you have no idea," Alison said smiling as Gretel rolled her eyes teasingly. She pushed Alison playfully out of her way as she made her way under the covers saying, "Well, if guys are done flirting, I say we should get some sleep. After all, we might have to battle Jack Frost tomorrow."
Alice rolled her eyes as Henry grinned sheepishly. However the boy too took it as time for sleep as Alison made her way to the head of the bed. However a glint of sparkle caught her eyes. Looking towards the window, she saw Tink flying around outside. Biting her lip, curiosity caught the better of her. She gently pushed on Gretel's shoulder and said, "I'll be back, Ava. I'm going to check on Peter."
"Mmm, fine, go check on that jerk," Gretel said tiredly. Alison grinned and hurried out of bed. Pulling on her sock slippers, she tiptoed out into the hall as she tried to find the exit. It took her a while, before she found a small door leading her to the servant's stairwell. Alison crept down it, finding the way that led her out.
She should have been freezing, but her magic kept her warm enough. The gardens were beautiful in their own way, all though she preferred gardens with color. She walked along the stone path, her socks surprisingly not soaked with wetness. Alison continued to wall down the path frowning slightly.
Peter hadn't wanted to come in with them. He said he hated stuffy palace life. Alison didn't argue, if he wanted to stay out all night and freeze it was his business. But Tink came to her, and that made her curious. Alison turned the corner and saw Tink flying in the middle of a circle of diamond roses. Alison smiled as she said, "Hello Tink."
"Hello Alison," Tink said with a warm smile.
"Where is Pe-Oh!" Alice suddenly felt herself yanked behind a towering snow tree. Alison looked at Peter reproachfully as he grinned saying, "Now, just wait lassie. She can't bring 'em out if we're watching initially."
"Bring them out?"
But her question fell to the wind when she saw Tink ring in a musical way. Alison's eyes lit up as she saw specks of silver light spring from the roses. They dance around her in a romantic way, a beautiful melody filling the air. Alison grinned as she stepped away from Peter whispering, "Ice Spirits… they're beautiful…"
"Finally, something that tickles your fancy," Peter said with a triumphant grin. Alison shot him a look, but it was a lot more playful than anything. Peter then walked around her with a bit of a strut and stopped in front of her. He bowed and said, "May I have this dance, Mi'Lady?"
Alison scoffed with a smile of disbelief on her face. Shaking her head, Alice said, "I have a rule, Peter. I only dance with people I love truly. And last I checked, I hated your guts."
Tink flinched, the sound echoing in the air. But the melody continued, obviously taking no motion to stop. Peter grinned and said, "Well it's a good thing you do then, Miss."
"And why is that?" Alice challenged.
"Because how much you hate someone shows how much you care about them," Peter said mockingly, "Otherwise it would just be indifference."
Alison opened her mouth, only to close it again. Peter smirked and out stretched his hand saying, "Besides, I heard you were an awful dancer. You could use the practice."
Alison let a laughing smile grace her face as she took Peter's hand and allowed him to spin her. His hand was positioned on her waist while the other held her hand. She gripped his hand tightly as she allowed her other hand to rest on his shoulder. It was a simple waltz, but much more beautiful than the Waltz de Wonderland. Alice watched Peter's eyes, the cool color piercing her. Her heart couldn't help but raise in spirits as she danced with him. Peter raised his brows as he twirled her as he said, "Not bad for a villain."
Alison laughed as she said, "Well I couldn't exactly call you the good guy. A little too bratty and smug for that."
Peter looked pleased and Alison said, "That's alright I suppose…I can't say that I'm the good guy either."
"Well I certainly hope not," Peter said, mockingly, "You're a girl."
Alice finally let out a laugh. They danced perfectly, Alison couldn't help but think of someone else she had danced with in such a way. Peter then asked quietly, "You dancing skills were obviously a lie. You dance well…"
"The last time I dance like this with someone, I was actually in this world," Alison said in almost a whisper, "There was just one difference…."
"What?" Peter asked softly.
Alice let the smile be weakened as she said, "It wasn't for pretend…"
Peter swallowed, as if the words stirred something in them. Alison thought he had taken offense to her words as she quickly said, "It's lovely pretend though, Peter."
"I'm glad," Peter said, stopping the dance. Alison looked confused as Peter said, "I'm glad you understand it's pretend."
"Why wouldn't I?" Alison asked, "We're just children… having fun. Isn't that what you're about?"
"Yes," Peter said, honestly, "It is…but Wendy never thought so…"
Alice was shocked when a glint of anger and pain crossed his eyes as he said, "I can't have another Wendy… All though the thimble was nice."
Alison laughed and backed away from him. Peter grin returned as he said, "It's nice to see you do this though, Alison."
"Do what?"
Peter snorted and said, "Look down, lovely."
Alison looked down and gasped. She was standing on midair. A smile graced her features and she laughed spinning around on air. She was flying, she was flying! Alice spun back to Peter and stopped suddenly. A terrible pain filled her heart as a memory burned her. Slowly, Alice began to sink to the ground and Peter growled. He followed her and shouted, "Why?! Why did you stop!?"
Alice turned away from him and began to walk away. Peter stopped his foot and asked, "You did it, now why stop!?"
"You never came."
Tink froze as Peter scowled saying, "What!?"
"You never came!" Alison turned on her heel, tears entering her eyes as she stormed back over to him, "Three years! Three years I left the window unlocked for you. No matter where I went, I waited for you to come and take me away. Dad promised me you would if something bad happened…but you didn't come. You never did."
Tink's music turned sad, as she watched the child in front of her. Peter scowl vanished as he looked thoroughly horrified. Alison didn't stop and said, "By the time I got to Storybrooke, I just gave up. You weren't coming to save me. Then the Enchantress and the curse came and then I didn't know what to think-!"
"Alison," Peter said walking over to her and cupped her cheeks saying, "I would have come. I always do for lost ones; I always do for your family. I can't do something if I don't remember and it burns me to think my chance got stolen."
Alison allowed him to wipe tears away as she said stubbornly, "What's chance?"
Peter grinned and said, "A chance for adventure, a wonderful dangerous adventure. Storming over clouds of Neverland and fighting off pirates to boot. The only adventure I was allowed to have with you though was this one…. An adventure to see you fly."
Alice couldn't help but smile and Peter kissed her forehead. He pulled away and said, "An adventure to make you trust."
Alice watched him back away and said, "I thought you couldn't do that."
"I can't," Peter scowled, "But Wendy gave me that thimble. And I know she would have wanted to give you it with all those tears."
Alice smiled with disbelief but pulled him into a hug. Peter froze, but then embraced her tightly. Tink wanted to be big; she couldn't feel the sadness she knew she should be feeling. But the other feeling she had was much more delightful.
If only everyone had felt that way.
The mirror crack as the object made contact with the mirror. Jack had a dark look on his face as Sage made a face. Sage complained as Jack stormed across the room, "Well that's not nice! Now we can't peek to try and figure out what they were whispering."
"Shut up Sage," Jack thundered and concerned entered Sage's features briefly. He watched as his brother stormed over to the stairwell in anger. Sage then asked, his sentenced ending on a crack in his voice, "You aren't going to actually hurt her, are you?"
"Get yourself ready, Sage," Jack shouted, "We have a party to attend!"
Sage grimaced and looked back at the cracked mirror and said in a warning sing song, "Alison, what are you doing? You're making him mad."
Jack stormed down the steps and reached a cell built into ice. Waving his hand the ice melted away to reveal an old man on the floor. The man looked at him weakly and Jack said, "Get up! You are needed."
The man looked at him and said in a weak grumble, "You are not well, old friend. I implore you to let me help you…"
Jack let out a cold laugh and said, "If it wasn't for me, that Queen would have had you dead. You can't do much of anything. Now, get up!"
Jack twitched his hand and the Master was forced to get up. Jack glared at him as the Master said, "Jack, please, Alice is only a child. Don't do what I know you're about to do…"
The Master's eyes still pierced him as he warned, "Such love is frail and easily broken."
Jack looked thunderous as he said lowly, "And you would know. After all, you're the one who ripped her mother away from her."
"Tonight we celebrate!"
The Duke smiled as his blushing wife stood faithfully at his side. It had been many a moons since his freedom and he was abusing every minute of it. He inclined his head at the people in the room as the Duke said, "Thank you! Your presence is well enough for me and my wife… and soon our son. Now drink till you're merry!"
Everyone did, roaring with laughter. He chuckled obviously drunk himself. The Duke kissed the woman and said, "My dear…you should probably retire soon."
The woman giggled and was about to kiss him when the doors burst open. They both looked over to see a hooded elder allow snow to burst into the hall. The Duke made a face as did his wife, but he said loudly, "Who dare walks in without my permission!"
"I am sorry, my liege," the old woman's voice was timid, "I merely wished to beg for shelter from the cold outside. Even the ashes by the kitchen fire would do."
"Begone, old hag," the Duke said, flinging his arm around, "I have no room for miserable old women."
"Please, my lord," the woman said holding out a red rose, "It is all I have…please let me stay…"
"I let you stay," The Duke said, obviously drunk as a skunk. He thundered down as his wife smirked, distorting her pretty face. He yanked out a knife, twisted as he and shouted, "In the sewers!"
"How dare you."
The magic burst from her, powerful and frightening. Light surrounded her as she glimmered into a beautiful young woman. The Duke fell back and everyone screamed in fright. Even the Duke's wife fell to her knees in fright. The Duke looked up in drunken shock as the woman stared down at him in slight disgust as she said, "And here you are… just as conceited and evil as your Master."
"Who are you?" The Duke said in terror as she raise her hand. He choked, grabbing at his throat in attempts to free himself from the invisible binds. The woman said, her face impassive and unforgiving, "Look at my face… have you forgotten already?"
The Duke stared at looked terrified. He choked and said, "It's not possible… Odette…"
"Not anymore," the Sorceress snapped, "Magic is with me now…magic to bring justice to your awful ways. People now call me…the Enchantress."
His face paled as he begged, "Please…have mercy."
"Like you've shown mercy?" The Enchantress said, "No, you will be brought to the suffer that you have inflicted. And since you were a shadow…it makes my spell that much easier to cast upon you."
The Duke cried out as the Enchantress took the knife and drove it into him. The wife behind him screamed as people fled the hall. The wife fainted as she fell to the floor and a young teen came out of the shadows. She watched the Enchantress in amazement, not fear as the Enchantress pulled out the knife…now bearing the name Shadow.
"It doesn't even give your Rothbart… your master's name," The Enchantress taunted. She allowed the knife to clatter to the floor as the man transformed. His skin turned scale and his eyes darkened. He hissed in pain as he writhed on the floor. The Enchantress stared at him and said, "The evil inside you will never bring you happiness. That is my curse, shadow."
"And what will mine be?"
The Enchantress looked at Odile, who now bowed her head. She walked before the woman and sat on her knees. Her voice trembled as she said, "What harm will come to me for allowing such a devastation to you?"
"Nothing," Enchantress said, softly, "You hold enough guilt in your heart."
Odile looked up in surprise as the Enchantress said, "Now go… be free of your prison. I will not let him follow you."
Odile fled as the Enchantress stared down. Turning, the Enchantress said, "This curse will bring an end to the evil that is in you. After this curse disappears forever…I will never let evil such as you exist again."
