TemperanceTales: I do not own Once Upon a Time in anyway shape or form and I give fully 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 his brainstorming with me. I will be taking a small break, so I can finish some things for Season 3 and as well as other things. Enjoy the Season Finale!
Chapter Fifty: Reunions.
"We should go after them!"
Emma winced at Regina's loud angry voice. They were in the one of the town hall offices, the bad weather hitting the windows. Snow and Charming were sitting in a couch next to the large windows that looked down into the court yard. Shaking her head, Emma said, "And how would you like us to do that? Only one can use the mirror at a time and Jefferson can't come back to take one of us! How pointless is that?!"
"Pointless?" Regina narrowed her eyes, "Henry is stuck in Antic with Jack Frost and you think it's POINTLESS to save his life?!"
"NO I DON'T THINK IT'S POINTLESS!" Emma thundered, thoroughly irritated, "But the Mages have already told us he's safe and he will return soon!"
"Then why haven't they told us what happened to Alison," Regina said, hurt creeping into her voice, "Why are they mute on her fate!?"
"Because they don't know!" Emma said, exasperated, "All they know is that they saw Henry alive with Jefferson and that a dead body was dumped on their doorstep!"
"And you trust them with that answer?!"
"Yes!" Emma said, "Just like I've trusted you!"
That shut Regina up. She stared at Emma, not sure whether to be touched by her comment or irritated. Emma groaned and said, "Regina I get you're pissed. But in ALL reality we can't do anything till he comes back!"
"And if he doesn't?" Regina asked, much more fearful now.
"Then we will find a way to get him back," Emma said as Snow tried to repress a yawn. Charming noticed and said, "Well stay up till we pass out isn't going to get us anywhere. I say we head back home and try to get a little bit of rest before we become too useless to do anything."
Regina pursed her lips, but didn't say anything word. Emma nodded and said, "A little rest will only guarantee a fresher mind."
Snow and Charming seemed satisfied and left without another word. Emma smiled strangely after them as Regina said, "You can't honestly think sleeping the night away is a good idea!"
"No," Emma said softly, turning to her, "But trying to locate them is."
Regina looked confused as she said, "No one can locate Alison with magic! She told me herself that people find her by pure coincidence!"
"True," Emma said, "But it's not that way with Henry."
Regina inhaled deeply before nodding her head saying, "It will be difficult but I can certainly try."
"Good," Emma said, "Keep me posted if anything changes."
"I hope I can expect the same from you," Regina said, her voice having a tint of hope. Emma watched her a moment, seeing the sincerity on her face. Smiling a gentle smile not known to her, Emma said, "Yeah, I will."
Emma left the town hall, pulling her coat together tighter. It was still cold outside, something very not normal for this time of year. It made even Emma more nervous about Alison's fate. Would she survive that world? Jack Frost seemed to be a legendary in magic, defeating him was clearly no easy feat. Emma become so lost in her own thoughts that she didn't notice someone come walk up beside her.
"Have you decided yet what's going to happen?"
Emma inhaled sharply, squeaking slightly. Piper grinned as Emma glared at him saying, "Would you quit doing stuff like that!? Considering everything that's going on-!"
"I'm sorry," Piper said, looking slightly pleased with himself, "I didn't mean to spook you. Just wanted to see if there was any more news."
"I'm afraid not," Emma murmured. Piper's grin faded as Emma shifted nervously. The two walked in silence as they got closer to the apartment complex. Piper looked at Emma concerned as he said, "You'll let me know if Henry get's back safely?"
"Yeah," Emma said, shifting uncomfortably, "And maybe…just sit and talk this out?"
"Talk," Piper repeated, looking at her strangely.
"Yeah, just talk," Emma said on the meek side. Piper sighed and Emma felt a tight feeling well up in her chest. However, before she could even defend her statement, he made one that threw her off.
"Good," Piper said relieved, "Talking's good."
"Wait, seriously?" Emma said, taken aback, "That's it? I mean you're not-?"
"No!" Piper said hastily and Emma couldn't help but look a little lost. Piper sighed and looked at her sadly saying, "No, I don't actually want anything from you. Emma, I know you bared you soul to me years ago and showed the beauty that was inside. But Emma, you don't know me. I mean my heart was frozen and it made me vicious and deceitful and made me do all this nonsense that cost me friends that I loved dearly. You don't know everything about me or my past and frankly I don't know yours anymore. I'm not that man you met years ago stealing a car, I'm not that guy you gave everything to."
Piper met Emma's eyes, the two of them connecting with the same emotion, "It's not the same."
Emma smiled; her smile a little more true and sad. Patting his shoulder, Emma said before going inside the building, "Well thank Fate or whoever for that…"
Emma could her him chuckled behind him as the door shut behind her. Emma sighed and began her ascent up the stairs when she heard someone scrambled back down. That someone crashed into her as Emma doubled back as Snow White jumped away.
"Mom? What are you doing here?
"Emma, I'm so sorry!" Snow said quickly, "I came to drop some of your things off- But you need to come upstairs!"
"Wh-Mary Margaret!" Emma said as Mary Margaret dragged her up the stairs and into the apartment. Snow didn't say anything until she opened the door, pointing madly into the room saying full of delight, "Emma, you'll never believe who's here!"
Emma looked over to where she was pointing. Her heart dropped through the floor. Henry was lying there on the couch, sound asleep. Charming was over by the window, closing it. Charming turned to look at her but Emma wasn't paying attention. Emma had immediately run over to the couch, shaking him gently. Henry groaned but didn't wake. Panic began to set in as Emma said, "Henry! Henry, wake up!"
Henry groaned, but this time awoke. He stared at Emma dazed for awhile before saying, "Emma… wh-where am I?"
"Kid, kid your home!" Emma said, her eyes filling with tears and her voice cracking as she hugged him. Henry, still not quite all together with it, leaned against he and said, "Home…we're home…"
"I'll call Regina," Snow said, before turning and dashing to find the phone. Henry seemed to wake up a little bit more as he pulled away and stared around again. Henry frowned and asked, "Where's Alison? Hansel and Gretel?"
"Not here," Emma said, honestly, "We haven't seen them."
Henry stared blankly as Regina suddenly appeared in the apartment. All she need was one look and Regina pounced like a tiger. Emma barely had gotten out of the way when Regina sobbed hysterically as she clung to Henry saying, "You're alright, you're alright!"
"Yeah," Henry said, a little stunned, "Yeah I am…"
Regina pulled back a little bit trying to collect herself again. Emma found that it was safe to sit back down on the couch again, watching Henry. Emma then asked, "What happened? Do you remember anything?"
"I remember a light," Henry said furrowing his brows, "It was really warm…and..and then…"
Henry suddenly perked up, making Regina and Emma flinch. It was as if the memories seem to flood back as he said, "She did it!"
"She did what?" Regina asked.
"Alison-She-she," Henry was almost babbling at the mouth as he tried to formulate his thoughts.
"She defeated Jack Frost?" Emma questioned, incredulously.
"No," Henry said, scrunching his nose a bit, "She-She saved him. She gave him back the piece of his core…"
"And he let you go?" Regina asked, surprised, "Just like that."
"Yeah," Henry said, his voice sounding a little distant, "Yeah he did…"
"Well, I mean it makes sense," Charming interrupted, "If we had gotten rid of the Anti-Magic, whatever was poisoning him had long since faded."
"And all that was left was to fill the piece of his heart," Regina said, her voice a tad more like herself, "How did Alison even get it?"
"Who knows," Emma said, "And frankly, who cares. What I would like to know is where the others are and how you guys got back here?"
"I don't know… everything kinda get's fuzzy after Jefferson went back through the mirror," Henry said, "I think we were supposed to meet him back here."
"Then the others must be back here somewhere," Snow said confidently, "Charming and I will go check the twin's house before going to Gold's."
The two left in a clamor leaving Regina, Emma, and Henry alone. Regina hugged Henry again, who in turn hugged her back. Emma smiled for what felt like the umpteenth time that day. Reaching out, Emma stroked his hair out of his face as she said, "Welcome home."
Kathryn was sitting in the chair by the window.
Gold didn't have the heart to tell her to leave. The atmosphere in the room was tight as they waiting the night away. The lights had gone out… that should have meant her imminent death. The victory over defeating the Enchantress had meant nothing with losing her. However, Sophronia was adamant that she wasn't dead.
"I would feel her death, Imp. Do not doubt the connection we have with our Mage."
Gold gripped the pen in his hand as he swallowed quietly. He had tried storming that damn manor to get to the mirror. Tzila had stopped him, telling him that he could not use the mirror when it was being used by someone else. It infuriated him, but Tzila was stronger and quicker with her magic. Without being the Dark One, Gold didn't want to test out his abilities against a well seasoned sorceress. Tears threatened to spring into his eyes as he thought of the unknown fate of his little one.
Belle shifted on the couch, struggling to stay awake. Her book was practically falling out of her hand, ready to fall to the floor. Kathryn was curled up on the arm chair, a beyond worried look on her face. All three were waiting on word from the Mage's on what was going on.
All three of them were not expecting the phone to ring.
Kathryn jump from her seat and Belle started awake, the book clattering to the floor. Gold flinched, his elbowing knocking a pen case off the desk. Scowling, Gold bent down to pick them up as Kathryn said, quickly, "I'll get it."
Kathryn scrambled to the phone as Belle murmured, "Why won't they just tell us what happened?"
"I'm not sure they know," Gold said, his voice sounding defeated. Kathryn was quiet and said, "No, we haven't heard anything on our end… Alright, keep us posted if you hear anything."
Kathryn hung up the phone with a sigh and Gold asked, "Who was that?"
"August," Kathryn said wearily, "He wanted to know if we had heard anything."
"I see," Gold said wearily. Kathryn sighed softly before pulling her coat off the chair and putting it on. Belle looked at her surprised as she said, "Are you leaving?"
"I'm heading back to the house," Kathryn said her voice sounding a little stronger, "If Alice does come back, I want to make sure someone finds her."
"What makes you so sure she will come back to you?" Gold asked, his voice having a trace of darkness. Both women looked at him, Belle in surprise and Kathryn with sympathy. Shaking her head, Kathryn said, "I don't know who she'll come back to… it would just be best if someone was there to make sure she's okay."
Gold's look softened a bit, the tone of misery taking over. Nodding slightly, Gold watched Kathryn bade them goodnight as she left. The front door clicked shut as Gold let out a shaky sigh. Belle went behind him comfortingly as he put his face in his hands. Rubbing his shoulder's slightly, Belle said, "It's not a contest, Rum. Even as Alice, she cares about you."
Gold shook his head slightly and said, "But she doesn't truly love either of us. The only one she loves truly is her father and now he's gone."
"Which is why she'll need us," Belle said softly, "More so now than ever."
Kathryn shivered as the cold rain fell from the sky. It had stopped snowing awhile ago, which wasn't too much a consolation. Everything was up in the air and the Mage's were unusually unavailable. Something had happened, and no one was telling them exactly what. Looking rather forlorn, Kathryn barely noticed that someone was hurrying after her down the street.
"Abigail!"
Kathryn turned to see Frederick hurrying towards her. Her looked a little put out as he tried to smile while saying, "Or Kathryn, I'm not sure which you prefer to go by."
Kathryn smiled weakly and said, "Either is alright Frederick…"
Frederick nodded and said, hopefully, "Are you walking home? Would you like some company?"
His voice sounded almost earnest, which pulled at some of her heart strings. Kathryn nodded and said softly, "I would like that considering the circumstances…"
Frederick offered his arm as they walked just a tad bit slower towards the house. Kathryn gripped his arm affectionately as she looked up towards the sky nervously. Frederick watched her from the corner of his eye briefly and asked, "Is she alright do you know?"
"I don't know," Kathryn said wearily, "The Mages are mute about it still."
"Perhaps they don't know," Frederick offered, comfortingly.
"Maybe," Kathryn said, "But I still think there is something they aren't telling us."
Frederick nodded and was quiet for a while. Kathryn was lost inside her thoughts when Frederick said slightly put out.
"You seem rather close with her."
"What?" Kathryn said, snapping back to reality. They had stopped in front of the house, the rain now nothing more than a drizzle. Frederick watched her sheepishly as he said, "Autumn and you, you're very close."
"Frederick," Kathryn started, her voice concerned, "You mean just as much to me-!"
"I know that!" Frederick said quickly, "It's not what I mean!"
Kathryn looked a little confused as Frederick continued with sadness, "I remember that whole mess with Autumn, I remember reading about it. I remember Mary Margaret saying how hard it was for you to help her. It frustrates me because I couldn't help you at all with it! We could have had a chance to have been a family if hadn't been for this curse."
Kathryn looked touched as she said, "You would have done that for me?"
"I would have done that for you both," Frederick said honestly, "If you care about her so much to have taken her into your home, then there must be something wonderful about her."
Kathryn smiled warmly, not care that the rain was dampening them. Frederick however noticed as he said, "We should get inside before we catch a cold."
Kathryn laughed and nodded as she turned to go inside the house. She froze when she saw that a window on the top floor was open. She gapped as Frederick looked up to see what she was looking at. Tilting his head, he asked, "Did you leave it open?"
"No," Kathryn said breathlessly, "I didn't!"
Kathryn bolted before Frederick could stop her as she bolted into the house. Running up the stairs, Kathryn didn't even bother taking her coat off as he said, "Abigail, wait!"
Kathryn didn't wait as she raced down the hall and opened the bedroom door. Turning on the light, she looked towards the window to see someone lying on the bed. She was curled next to the window, sleeping. Kathryn felt tears slip down her face as she laughed saying, "Alice!"
She hurried over to the bed as Frederick stopped at the doorway. Gently shaking her, Kathryn said, "Alice, wake up! Honey, please wake up!"
Alison stirred and stared up at Kathryn sleepily. She got up looking a little dazed as she looked around the room. Kathryn brushed back her hair as she said, "Are you alright? How did you get back?"
Alison didn't answer right away, thinking about her answer. She then spoke, her voice sounding tired, "Just a little faith, trust, and a little bit of pixie dust…"
Kathryn laughed again, the joy clearly radiating on her face. Alison allowed her to stroke her hair away from her face, feeling the temperature of her skin. Her smile twitched as she said, "You're so cold still…"
"Well going to save the Guardian of Cold does that to you," Alison said, getting a little bit more awake. Kathryn couldn't help but hug her tight to her, memories or not. Alison didn't respond at first, but hugged Kathryn after a few moments. Kathryn almost didn't hear her saying the following words.
"I missed you."
Kathryn opened her eyes, surprise entering her heart. The words the child spoke had weight to them; it wasn't just a simple casual comment. As strange as Wonderland was, there was no reason that she should really say those words. Pulling away, Kathryn looked down into Alison's blue eyes to see a hopeful glance in them. Tears filled Kathryn's eyes as realization hit her.
"You remember…"
Alison smiled, her own eyes going glassy as she said, "Of course I do. How could I forget?"
Kathryn cried, embracing Alison tightly. Alison closed her eyes, allowing her own tears to fall down. Being embraced by Kathryn made her feel warm, loved. A cough escaped from her however, making Kathryn pull away. Frederick took this as a queue to go downstairs saying, "I'll get her something warm to drink."
"Thank you, Frederick!" Kathryn said appreciatively. Alison watched with a distant expression as she looked around the room. Kathryn watched as she looked towards the open window. Staring at it blankly, tears continued to fall down her cheeks. Kathryn was confused until Alison said the next few words.
"He's gone…after all this, he's gone…"
Kathryn felt sadness well up inside her as she embraced Alison again. Tears began to soak her shirt as Alison began to sob silently into her. Stroking her hair, Kathryn allowed Alison to mourn the losses she knew she felt in her heart. Rocking gently, Kathryn waited until the child's sobs had subsided. Alison rested against the woman as Kathryn said softly, "The Mage of Wonderland… I have to say that's impressive."
Alison smiled weakly as she said, "I'd much rather be the little girl you took in…"
Kathryn kissed the top of her head as she looked around the room. Nodding her head slightly, Kathryn said, "I think some stability will do that girl some good…"
Alison furrowed her brows as she looked up at Kathryn confused. Kathryn smiled warmly as she said, "Your Father left an updated will… I suppose he knew something was going to happen. August was left in charge of your care..."
Alison stared at Kathryn blankly as Kathryn explained, "August and I talked… he thinks it's best that I remain in charge of your care for now."
Alison looked surprised as Kathryn smiled warmly, stroking back her hair. Kathryn grasped her hand tightly as Alison asked hesitatingly, "He's letting me stay?"
"Yes," Kathryn said kindly. Her eyes sparkled playfully as she said, "He'll still come for visits. But I believe he told me someone thought he was incapable of taking care of himself..."
Alison sniffed, her nose still stuffed up from multitude of reasons. She looked Kathryn in the eyes as she smiled weakly, "Well it's true…"
Kathryn laughed as Alison's smile vanished into sincere worry. Swallowing, Alison said, "You would take me back… after everything I did? Even with the curse broken?"
Kathryn's smile vanished, looking genuinely surprised. Cupping Alison's face, she stroked the child's hair with one hand. Shaking her head slightly, Kathryn said confused, "Why wouldn't I?"
Alison's eyes watered at once as she buried herself into Kathryn's shirt again. Kathryn clung to her this time, the pain Alison felt making her want to sob. She was indeed right back where she started, if not in a worse situation. Magic was a tricky thing and being the Mage made things much more complicated. Resting her head on Alison's head, Kathryn said, "I love you…"
Alison smiled through her tears as she hugged Kathryn whispering, "I love you too."
"You wanted to see me?"
Tzila heard Belle's voice as she entered the study. Looking up from her book, Tzila shut it promptly as she stood up. Walking over to her stiff, Tzila said, "I wanted to talk to you, after all you share the Role of Mage with Rumpelstiltskin…"
Belle swallowed, her face sad as she said, "I'm sorry… for the loss of your father."
"I thank you for your condolences," Tzila said formal, a tint of pain in her voice, "Your kindness shines through as well as your honesty."
Belle didn't know what to say to that so she changed the topic. Shaking her head slightly, Belle said, "I'm sorry if I'm rude, but Alice-."
"Is back safe and sound," Tzila said firmly. Belle's face lightened as she opened her mouth to speak. Tzila raised her hand as she said, "I will not tell you where she is just yet. I want her to sleep and rest as her health is not back up to par. If people keep waking her up, she won't…"
Belle looked a little put out as Tzila said, "I called you here for a different reason."
Tzila strode over to the bookshelf and pulled at an empty space next to a statue. There was a click as the shelf moved to reveal an opening. Tzila motioned as she said, "Come with me."
Belle followed into the opening where they went down the stairs. There were cells along the halls, shadows lurking in them. Belle shivered as Tzila took one of the lights from the wall as she said, "I apologize… my prison is one of darkness. It keeps my prisoner's silent."
Belle nodded, but felt an unsettling feeling in her stomach. They approached another part of the prison that was lighter and a man sat silently in the cell. He was staring at the wall as Belle's emotions twisted. Walking towards the cell, she said, "Father…?"
Mo French didn't say anything. He continued to stare at the wall as Tzila said, "He can't hear you yet. I wanted to discuss why I brought you down here. He is quite a bit of trouble for attacking a Mage. However, it is really not my place for punishment. After all he is from your world."
Belle's face dawn in realization as she looked back at Tzila. Tzila walked forward and pressed the light into Belle's hand. Tzila face held a strange emotion on her face as Tzila said, "I trust you have a suitable plan for him."
Belle took the light and said, "Yes… I do."
Tzila nodded and said, "The light will guide you back safely. Good luck."
Tzila left her and Belle looked baffled. Her look darkened as she heard Mo French say, "Belle? Belle, is that you!?"
Belle turned to see Mo French grasping the bars. His eyes looked relieved and hopeful as he said, "Belle, please, release me. I swear I meant you no harm-."
"But you meant harm to her," Belle said coldly, "You hurt the man I love by taking away the thing he loved!"
Belle couldn't help but feel a twinge in her heart as Mo said, "He took you away from me… if you had never made that deal I would still have you."
"And I would have been trapped in a loveless marriage and the orge's would still be slaughtering people!" Belle yelled, her voice cracking, "I am in charge of my life and I would never be so selfish as you!"
Belle walked over and pulled the latch on the cell. However, her glare kept Mo French in place as she said, "I will let you free for the sake that Mother would cry at seeing you here, but never NEVER will I let you back into my life again. If you even glance in our direction, I will have Rumpelstiltskin blind you so you can never see my face again."
"Belle," Mo pleaded, "Please…"
"Goodbye Father," Belle said backing away with tears threatening in her eyes, "I never want to see you again."
With that Belle disappeared into the darkness and made good on her word.
Alison looked down at Elisabeth's grave sadly.
This wasn't her first dance with Death and it most certainly wasn't going to be her last. But it still grieved her to know that she died fighting when she could have easily left… enjoyed another life. Biting her lip, Alison said, "Fairfarren, Elisabeth."
"I am sorry."
Alison looked over to see Tzila standing there. She was dressed in a black dress and her hair was tied into an elegant bun. Her eyes watched her with a gentle kindness that Alison did not feel like she deserved.
"For Elisabeth, for Jane, for your Father," Tzila said softly, "For all of it."
"It's not your fault," Alison said, "I'm sorry we couldn't get the Master back to the Manor in time."
"Even after all he did?"
"Yeah, especially after all he did," Alison said, laughing bitterly, "I didn't even get to yell at him properly."
Tzila chuckled weakly as Alison walked towards her saying, "No… No, I would have never wished for him to die. I know he was sorry for what he did. I know deep down he cared about us all… especially you."
Tzila swallowed, before extending her hand, "Walk with me?"
Alison and Tzila walked through the forest. They were silent for a while, simply enjoying the morning. Tzila was the first to break the silence.
"So I see your shadow has reunited with you."
"Yeah," Alison said, "It took some internal battling, but I finally remember everything to."
"Have you seen Gold yet?"
"Nahhh," Alison said, "But I heard that he is the Mage for the Enchanted Realm?"
"Yes," Tzila said, "The Dark One is no longer… funny how that worked out so nicely."
"Hmm," Alison said innocently, "I don't know what you mean."
"Oh, I'm sure you don't," Tzila said, "I just know that you stole back my father's hat so he wouldn't be able to use it with the dark one's power to try and get you back. OR defeat the Enchantress on his own. I can't imagine why you would do something like that."
Alison looked sheepish as Tzila stopped in the clearing. Extending her hand, Tzila said smiling, "Nothing happens without my knowledge, dear one. It's the perks of being the Mage of the Land of Shadows. Now hand it over."
"You're no fun," Alison pouted before waving her hands in the air. The hat popped into the air, falling into Tzila's hands. It seemed like such a simple thing. But even the simplest things can have the greatest powers. Tzila watched it a moment before making it disappear. Alison looked around the clearing, noticing that they had come onto the door.
"So you're leaving."
Tzila and Alison stood outside the door quietly. Her face was sad as she nodded softly saying, "Yes, our work here is done… After all the whole reason we were here was to help with the Enchantress…"
Alison nodded and held an impassive stare as she said, "Shame though… I wouldn't mind keeping access to my room in the Manor."
Tzila smiled weakly as she said, "You could link one of you rabbit holes to it."
"Uggh, that's too much magic and anti-magic and patience I don't have," Alison said, making a face, "I'd have to go back to Wonderland to have enough…"
Tzila was quiet a moment before saying, "You could you know."
Alison fell quiet again, looking at Tzila with semi wide eyes. Tzila walked forward as she spoke, "As the Mage of Wonderland, you are required to help your land with the problems it faces. Some would say that returning is required…"
Alison shifted uncomfortably and Tzila noticed. Gently putting a hand on her shoulder, Tzila said, "But that is only some. What you do is always yours to decide."
Alison bit at her lip again as Tzila watched the child softly. Alison finally spoke again as she said, "You're always helping me… and I feel like I can never give you what you and Ryaden want."
"I know dear one," Tzila said, simply, "This will always be enough."
"Coming to save my butt, doing horribly stupid things because I ask you," Alison said, jokingly. Tzila finally embraced Alison fully, stroking her hair.
"Always," Tzila whispered softly, "It will always be enough."
Alison couldn't help but smile as Tzila leaned down to kiss her forehead. Tzila stared intently into Alison's eyes as she said, "Goodbye, Alison… May we meet again soon."
Alison leaned up and kissed the woman's cheek before she could pull away. Smiling, Alison backed away as she waved her hand. The door opened to reveal a light as Tzila gave the child one last longing glance before walking through the door. The door shut and clicked as Alison watched the door a moment longer. She had barely turned around when she was suddenly tackled to the ground. Two paws pinned her down as she heard a low vibrating purr. Grinning, she opened her eyes to see the fully bodied cat staring down at her.
"That was very mean spirited," Chesshire Cat teased, keeping her pinned to the ground, "You didn't even go back with them. Especially after all they helped you with…"
"They can't have me," Alison said, "I bring too many problems and they already have enough to deal with…"
Alison suddenly kicked him hard into the stomach, sending him flying to the side. Alison turned onto her side as she said grinning madly, "I can always go bother Ryaden when he takes too many Wonderland Boys."
The Cat morphed into smoke until her was into a human form. He grinned at her and said, "Lively… nice to know even with the shades of grey you're still the same."
Alison stood up with Chess. He grabbed her and spun her around. Alison giggled as she said, "Still ever the cuddly cat."
"One of the nicer names I've been called," Chess joked as he set her down on her own two feet. Alison smiled as he looked towards the door as he said, "So I heard my mother and sisters went back through?"
"Yes," Alison said firmly, "I don't want anyone else dying… and she didn't want any more daughters dying either."
"Did the others leave?"
"No," Alison said, "Of course not, they all are looking for the next fight basically."
Alison suddenly became serious as she said, "In fact, I was hoping I would run into you."
"No," Chess suddenly sounded tight, "I'm not going."
"You don't have to stay," Alison said, her voice cracking a bit, "You can go back… dance with the White Queen and enjoy crashing parties."
"It's not fun if you're not there," Chess whined, taking her back in his arms for a hug. His voice became more serious as he whispered into her hair, "It's a sleeping snore when you're gone…"
Alison swallowed before hugging him back. However, the two of them were interrupted by a voice that made them move away from one another.
"I wouldn't get your hopes up, she might force you back," Jefferson said coolly, "After all, she likes pushing away people trying to help her."
"Chess," Alison said with gritted teeth. Chess nodded and disappeared into smoke while give Jefferson a look of disgust. This only seem to frustrate Jefferson more as he said, "First you ditch me in Antic to avoid our discussion, now you've pinned the Cat against me. I don't know what I did to make you miffed, but it must have been big."
"I'm not mad," Alison said firmly, "Not in the angry sense of the word."
"Then why?" Jefferson said, a glassy look taking hold in his eyes, "Why do you keep running away from me?"
"I'm not running away from you," Alison said, tilting up her chin, "You just keep running the way that I'm not going to."
"Only because you keep sending me there," Jefferson said, "Jumping was always your thing, especially through rabbit holes. I want an answer and I want it now, why is everyone so upset including you!?"
"Because," Alison said, her face indignant, "You hung up your hat, you said you were done, you said you had Grace now and that's all you needed…"
Jefferson's face suddenly went dark, a madness coming back that would make most people frightened. To Alison, it was refreshing and an unwanted relief to her form. A smirk appeared on his face as he shook his head with a mad laugh, "That's what's been bugging you… you dense child, you're putting words in my mouth and myself in the words."
"I am not!" Alison said, agitatedly, "That's what you said to me in the Circus!"
"I said I didn't want the hat and that I had Grace," Jefferson said, walking towards her. Alison began to back up, but soon hit the door. Jefferson ran a hand through his hair as he said, "I should have known you'd get so emotional with the way you are. You thought I would turn my back on you."
Jefferson stopped close to her and Alison swallowed. Staring with forced annoyance, Alison said, "Our deal was done, there was no reason to stare at a reminder of what you lost."
Jefferson rolled his eyes as he said, "You're still belittling the self-worth inside you. Which really only leaves me with one option."
Alison yelped as he scooped down and flung her over his shoulder. It was sudden, it was unexpected, and Alison didn't remotely like it. Pounding on his back, Alison screeched at him, "PUT ME DOWN! Last time you did this to me I ended up in the Duchess's pond!"
"And you'll end up in worse if you don't heed my demands," Jefferson said, "Give me my hat back."
"No!" Alison said, heat rising in her face, "Especially with you being a right prat!"
"Give it back to me or I'll have to steal it back," Jefferson warned.
"Why do you even want it!?" Alison said, her pride taking over enough to have her refuse to give in.
"Because the Hat defines our friendship and I want it back!" Jefferson snapped pointedly.
Alison stopped hitting his back and her breath caught strangely in her throat. Jefferson tossed her up a bit so she was upright in his arms. Grabbing him around the neck, Alison said, awkwardly, "It doesn't…"
"You said so yourself," Jefferson said, "After all, YOU'RE the one that jumped to the conclusion that hanging up my hat meant I leave you. So the hat must be the defining factor."
Alison's jaw trembled a bit as Jefferson stared at her intently.
"You'll whine and complain the whole time having it."
"We'll have all sorts of crazy adventures that will make future generations laugh and cheer."
"You'll never get to go to a party and enjoy," Alison warned.
"Well I've been told by a little wee one that, oh how did she phrase it?" Jefferson taunted, "Ah yes, it was the stupidest tea-party she had ever been to."
"It was the stupidest party I had ever been to," Alison huffed, "You bombarded me with nonsensical riddles and I swear you were drunk for more than half of it!"
"I was not!" Jefferson said, "And I can't help that you're a little slow when it comes to riddles."
Alison suddenly pulled on something, Jefferson feeling something shade his peripheral vision. Realizing she was holding the hat behind his head, Jefferson watched her as Alison said, "Grace…"
"Has already told me point blank she would never forgive me if I abandoned you," Jefferson said, "Besides… someone has to stumble on my feet and I know it's not going to be her."
Alison pulled on the hat, pulling his face closer as she leaned on his shoulders. Leaning her forehead against his, she said.
"I hate you."
Jefferson smirked madly as he said, "And that's precisely why you love me."
Baelfire heard the rooster's crow.
It wasn't a real rooster, but part of him wished that it was. Turning, Baelfire watched as Peter flew into the bedroom he had once shared with Jane. The boy was grinning as if he was pleased. Baelfire looked at him impassively as Peter said, "Why the long face?! I would have thought you would have been happy for the company."
"Is she safe?"
Peter stopped, the smile falling from his face. Scowling, Peter said with a bored tone, "Why must you jump to such serious topics? Can't you just follow her in the mirror thing of yours?"
"I can't see her in it," Baelfire said with cold tone, "I've never been able to see her in it. Otherwise I would have never lost her in the first place. Now is she safe?!"
"Of course," Peter said casually, "Like her mother and grandmother, she's a tough one…"
Baelfire nodded slightly, staring back out towards the horizon. Peter seemed rather annoyed with his distant attitude as he said, "Well this isn't any fun. It's bad enough you grew up Bae, it's even worse with you having parental withdrawals."
"Then go play with the Island inhabitants," Baelfire said coldly, "I have other things to be doing."
"You mean like trying to find a way back to Alison?" Peter asked sharply. Baelfire froze as Peter said, "As long as she's in that world, you can never be reunited. You have magical water coursing through you; it binds you to the magic of this land. However given time, you will become the magic of this land. After that you'll be able to go as you please."
"Then why can't I go back to her there?" Baelfire said, turning and advancing on Peter.
"Because she's not meant to be there," Peter said sourly, "And neither of you. Magic doesn't belong in that world. It is much more precious to have them as stories that it is for them to be there."
Peter backed away as Baelfire was rooted to the spot. Peter held out his arms as he said, "You can't go anywhere just yet, so why don't you just let loose and enjoy. Alison has her own adventures to live without real parents bothering her… "
Baelfire looked at Peter as the boy stood on the window ledge. Baelfire scoffed before he said, "Did you even say goodbye to her? Or did you just do one of your dumps and run."
"Of course not," Peter said seriously, surprising Baelfire, "Never say goodbye because goodbye means going away and going away means forgetting."
Peter seemed nostalgic as he said, "And I'll never want to forget our adventure…"
Gold walked down the street towards his shop. It was the usual hustle and bustle as people made their way to their usual routine. However, they skirted by him still which he didn't mind. His mood was dark, as Alison had been skirting him again. Gripping his cane tightly, Gold reached into his pockets to pull out his keys to unlock the shop. Belle had offered to come with him but frankly he didn't feel like the company. Opening the door, he walked into his shop to hear a surprising voice.
"Cinderella was mortified, her Prince Thomas gone. Clutching his cloak, she fled up the hill in a panic. Storming over to the cage, Cinderella demanded to know where he precious Thomas had gone. Rumpelstiltskin merely smiled and replied that he had no idea what she spoke of as he was otherwise engaged," Alison read, the glasses on her face. Gold took her in, finding himself frozen to the spot. Alison continued on with a sigh, "Cinderella did not believe the imp, demanding to know what he knew. But the imp implied nothing more than that the price of magic had been paid. Charming took Cinderella away as the imp shouted that in this world or the next he would have her baby. So you knew the entire time that you would get her baby?"
Gold was caught off guard when she looked up directly at him. Swallowing, he kept a poker face as he said, "I knew I would need the baby when I got to this world… Foresight is not an exact science but once you string together the pieces and parts you can accomplish much."
Alison nodded as she shut the book. Furrowing his brows, Gold looked at her with a strange hopeful expression as he said, "I find you in here reading to me… why?"
"I was bored," Alison said simply, staring at him intently, "You took too long to get here."
Gold looked as if he didn't know what to do. Something was going on here, but he couldn't tell what. She had been ducking him, and now she was here. Gold gripped his cane as he said, "What are you doing here Alice?"
Alison raised her brows as she said, "I heard through the grape vine you became the New Mage of the Enchanted Forest."
"Both," Gold said suddenly, "Belle and I both are the new Mage."
Alison look genuinely surprised and a little unpleased. Gold couldn't help but note this as she tapped the book with her fingers saying, "Well, I express my congratulations."
"Are you telling me you had nothing to do with it?" Gold said raising his brows in suspicion. Alison shrugged casually as she said, "I don't know what you mean."
"I'm sure you don't," Gold said, tempted to roll his eyes. He sobered when Alice said, "Well… whether I did or not is no longer is important. What is important is that you and I remain on good terms. We wouldn't want a war of the worlds, would we?"
Her voice was teasing, almost taunting him. It made his heart ache and warm at the same time. She was trying, he could tell that. It was a game, a game he would entertain for now. He watched her as she slipped off the desk and went behind the other glass cases as he watched her intently. Alison rested her arms on the case as she leaned over to look at him. He turned and walked towards her as he said with his business like smile, "No, especially with you bunch of maniacs."
"Hey," Alison said pouting, "We like being maniacs, and in fact you used to like being one too."
Gold smirked as he gently tapped her nose saying, "Well… age has mellowed me."
"Lies," Alison accused as Gold walked away. He reached over to move the angle of the lamp. Alison watched his back as she stood up again. Walking back towards the curtains, Alison said, "Well it would explain how you keep forgetting about our deals. After all, how many weeks went by that I didn't read a story? Or how about the thousands of questions I've asked that you've never got equal compensation for."
Gold froze as he said, "What?"
"You know, ask you a question and you get to ask one of equal value," Alison teased, her eyes playful, "You really are losing your touch."
"No," Gold said turning around, "How would you know about that?"
Alison froze a moment before peeking around one of the cases to look at him. He was looking at her now, suspiciously. Alison stepped more into view as she said simply, "Chess told me about them… he had to catch me up a lot after all…"
Realization hit Gold's face as he smirked almost evilly. Taking a step towards her, he pointed at her saying, "You are a little spitfire."
Alison looked confused a moment as he said, "Sofronia told me he or she didn't know about any of our deals. Which means there can be only one other reason."
There was a mischievous glint in his eyes as she made a face. Biting her lip momentarily, Alison said, "Well… that's one way to ruin my fun."
Gold smirk remained firmly in place as he said, "Grounded."
"What!" Alison said confused and defiant.
"You are grounded," Gold said advancing on her a bit, "If you remember your little forget me session happened right in the middle of punishment for be a sneaky little girl. And since you kindly reminded me of our neglected deals, I feel an extension is necessary."
"Ah but August gave Kathryn back temporary custody," Alison said with a mini face.
"For the week days," Gold corrected, "Weekends and holidays are mine."
Alison gulped as Gold said wickedly, "And today's Friday."
Alison looked ever so determined as she said, "But this is only if you can catch me."
Gold lifted up the cane with a smirk and walked normal. Alison looked outraged as she said, "Really!? Why do you keep carrying around something you don't need!?"
"Deception," Gold said, letting the cane fall to the floor, "Now…"
Alison shrieked as he darted after her. She didn't get very far as he grabbed her around her waist with both arms. Squeezing her to him, he magically transported them to her room where he picked her up and placed her in the bed. Alison was in a fit of giggles when he climbed up next to her. He kissed the top of her head as he said, "My little Autumn leaf…."
"Is that what you'll be calling me from now on?" Alison asked.
Gold stroked back her over grown bangs as he said, "It has grown on me…"
Alison swallowed, smiling weakly at him. Pushing more of her hair out of the way, Gold murmured, "I rather like it like this… if you let it all grow out, people could actually see your lovely little face."
"I don't know, I've never been allowed to really do anything with it," Alison said with a frown, "I've pretty much just let it be whatever…"
Gold's face turned a little solemn as he finally asked, "How is it you remember? The potion should have made you forget."
Alison waved her hand, staring up towards the canopy. Gold followed her gaze as he saw the shadows move in an unnatural way. Looking alarmed, he stared down at her and asked, "You're the Jack Rabbit?"
"Jack's little rabbit," Alison said rolling her eyes, "Duh."
Gold growled, suddenly waving his hand above her. His hand glowed purple, the magic seeming lighter in nature. Alison watched him confused and asked, "What are you doing?"
"I make sure you did this right," Gold scolded, "Otherwise there might be repercussions that we can't afford to deal with."
Alison stayed quiet for a few moments, watching him do his magical work. His magic was definitely different. It was quirky and still tricky like him, but it wasn't evil. Alison fiddled with the hem of her shirt as she asked, "What happened to the knife…?"
"It disappeared," Gold said, "It disappeared after Belle and I shared True Love's Kiss."
"Oh," Alison said, surprised, "It disappeared all together?"
"Yes," Gold said, dismissively, "Now quit fidgeting."
It took him a few minutes before he was satisfied. Finally putting his hand down, Gold shook his head saying, "I don't know what I am going to do with you."
"Get your stinky breath out of my face?" Alison teased and shrieked as he tickled her. Trying to squirm away from him, Alison felt him lean over and kissing the top of her head again. He stopped tickling her, only to ensure she didn't run away. Turning onto her back, she was in another giggling fit as he tapped her nose saying, "Now I believe someone owes me a story."
Alison grinned and sat up clapping her hands together. The book fell on her lap as she flipped through the pages easily. She stopped at a story entitled Aladdin. Gold smirked as Alison said with a grin, "Are you ready for another one of my lovely narrations?"
Gold kissed the top of her head one more time as he said, "Always."
The night was in full swing as Avenant walked through the forest. He held a light as another person stumbled behind him. Avenant didn't seem too bothered by it as the man sputtered, "Why is the meeting place in a place like this? Who is this person?!"
"Shush!" Avenant said, "No one picked this place, it just happens to be where she has to be."
Sidney Glass waved his hand in his face as he felt a bug flying near his head. Avenant didn't bother to pay much attention as he led the former genie down the hill. Sidney seemed bothered as he said, "You still haven't told me who this person is. Why all the secrecy?"
"Why would I be open about such a plan?" Avenant said crossly, "After all we're not supposed to be drawing attention to ourselves just yet."
Sidney stumbled after him with a nervous look on his face. They reached a clearing where they happened upon the shore. The fog seemed to be rolling above the sea gracefully. Avenant walked down close to the shore as Sidney finally stopped saying, "We are the only one's here!"
Avenant turned to face him, staring at him with intent. He stepped close to the nervous man as he asked, "Would you like to leave? If you do, do so now because I do not tolerate wishing washing behavior from anyone."
"No, no, I will stay," Sidney said, "I just don't like jumping into things that I have no privy knowledge to."
Avenant stared at him a moment longer before he heard a distinct bell. It was deep in sound as he turned towards the direction of the sound. Avenant watched as there was a glow that was illuminating a dark looking ship. It stopped a distance out, and Avenant smirked. Sidney swallowed as he heard Avenant say, "Here, Genie, is the way you can get revenge on the Evil Queen."
There was a cloud of red smoke as a single woman appeared. Her dress was red in color and her crown was in place at the top of her head. Lose curls fell around her face and she smiled cruelly. Avenant bowed formally as Sidney followed clumsily. Avenant stood without permission making the woman scoff saying, "It seems that my Pet was the only one to wait till I gave permission."
"Forgive me, but we do not have a lot of time," Avenant said as Sidney kept still out of fear, "You're Majesty, this is Sidney Glass. He is the Genie that you were looking for."
Sidney swallowed as the woman smile became coyer in nature. She did take a step forward, her dress rustling against the sand. Waving her hand, Sidney found himself straightening up quickly. She nodded her head as she said, "Hello, Sidney. I am very glad you decided to join us."
"Sidney," Avenant said, "May I present the woman in charge of this whole operation, Queen Cora."
The woman smile became more evil as she said, "The Queen of Hearts."
