Chapter Fifty Six: The Looking Glass House.
"Lady Alice! Oh please Lady Alice, come out from hiding!"
Alice muffled her giggles into her hand, hiding behind one of the statues in the small garden in the maze. Her dress was a light blue, the material light and almost silky. Her hair was pulled back by pins of tiny fireflies. The Tweedlies hurried about, panicking.
"Oh the Queen will be so angry if we don't find her!" the Tweedlie cried, circling the berry bushes.
"I highly doubt Lady Alice will hide that long! She just wanted to play hide and seek," The other Tweedlie said, waltzing about the garden. Alice glanced down and saw a rock near her. Grasping it, Alice threw it as hard as she could towards one of the exits. It clicked the stone flower pot, falling back to the ground. Both of them looked towards as one Tweedlie said, "I heard something. It came from that way!"
They both scampered the scene, their skirts rustling pleasantly. Alice came out from her hiding place giggling as she hurried towards another exit.
Alice walked along as she looked for another good hiding spot. Taking a few twist and turns, Alice found herself on a path way that had a layer of mist. It was beautiful and quite curious as it did not seem to move. Walking into it, she found herself following it further. The hedges became ridden with gold, ready to wither away in nothingness. Curious, Alice turned around a corner of an opening. Alice gasped as she saw that a courtyard seemed to be there, leaves of old fallen on the ground. There were seats that were made of white cracked stone. There were many vines that seemed to have grown upon them. Alice walked into the courtyard and notice that a large mirror stood towards the wall of the hedge. Alice walked over to it curiously, noticing the strange writing along the rusted metal. She could not fully understand what it said, the writing different from the books in the castle. Alice could have sworn she heard a whisper, a whisper that came from the mirror. Alice felt herself drawn to it, something pulling her in. She was not afraid, but very curious. Reaching out, Alice found herself floating through the mirror.
Through the mirror she found herself in a house, every wall and ceiling made of splendid glass. Alice felt like she was floating on air, stepping carefully on the floor. The tiles were black and white; the perfect size for her feet. Alice passed a table that had a chessboard with broken pieces upon it. Feeling unsettled by it, Alice hurried out and into the outdoors. The forest and garden of wild flowers were wondrous to behold. Alice looked around, hearing the soft whispers that she couldn't quite understand. Her shoes clicked along the tile path that even stretched outside the house. Alice found herself wandering towards a group of flowers, swearing that the whispering got louder as she got closer.
"What a curious little creature."
Alison spun around, seeing a woman walking towards her. Her dress was unlike Cora's, the skirts more flat and the corset not as obvious. The dress was trimmed with thin deep mahogany feathers as her sleeveless dress was blood red. Her gloves were red, diamonds circling her wrists. Her hair was up splendidly, a crown of many jewels upon her head, indicating her leadership. Unlike Cora, however, this woman held very little warmth to her. In fact, Alice feared her to be quite cold. Alice gave a curtsy as she asked, "Who are you?"
"Curtsy before thinking!" the Queen said, "You've skipped straight to speaking."
Alice curtsied once more and the Queen seemed satisfied. Walking about her she said, "I am the Red Queen, Queen Eracebeth. Now what is your name, creature?"
"Alice Little," Alice said, coming out of her curtsy. She did not like this woman; she kept her nose high in the air as she walked past Alice and towards an overturned chair. The woman looked back at her with disdain as she said, "Cora's pet… no wonder you move so quickly…"
"It is Queen Cora, Your Majesty." Alice said before she could stop herself.
The Red Queen swirled her hand as Alice shrieked as the ground swallowed up her feet. Alice fell forward, her palms hitting the stone. The Queen walked calmly forward as she said, "You should curtsy before speaking, it would save us time from dealing with foolish comments."
Alice glared over at the Queen who turned around. She smiled but it was cold as night as she said, "I like you, creature. You moved quite fast, just as fast as a Queen I would reckon. So let's put it to the test, shall we? Almost a game you can call it."
The Queen pointed over the forest and said, "Across these forests to the West is my castle, which is considered the left side of the board. If you can race to the other side of the board, I will send you home to your beloved Queen."
"And if not?"
The Queen's smile turned to a smirk as she said, mockingly, "You will be lost in the realm forever… You have five days to cross, creature. I do hope for your sake to see you then."
"Queen Cora!"
Cora watched over the mirror, watching the Red Queen disappear from Alice's presence. Alice was unbounded from the ground and she was able to walk down the path. Cora glanced behind her to see the Knave hurry in.
"The Child is missing!" he reported tartly.
"Yes I know," Cora said, "In the Midlands no less… I should have destroyed that blasted mirror."
"Shall we fetch her?"
He sounded unenthused but Cora did not seem too bothered by it. The Knave waited for his Queen to speak as Cora turned to him. She smiled a smile that was unsettling, something that the Knave certainly was hoping it wasn't directed at him. It came much to his relief when Cora replied, "No. Let's see how she does for now. After all, she is my favorite for a reason."
Sidney Glass awoke with a grumble, the bright light from the opening in the ceiling shining in.
He hadn't slept well. He had been hidden away on this ship since Avenant had brought him to the Queen of Hearts. His 'allies' kept assuring him that he was not a prisoner, however Sidney knew the feeling of being trapped and this was it. Sitting up in his little cot, Sidney rubbed his eyes before getting up to go clean himself up. However before he could grab the towel near a basin of water, the door to the room opened to reveal a crew member holding onto some clothes.
"Here," he said roughly, throwing the clothes at Sidney, "The Queen orders you to clean yourself up and put these clothes on. You are to report above deck where she will give you your assignment."
Sidney nodded wordlessly as the man left promptly shutting the door. Sighing, Sidney looked down at the new suit set with his hands trembling ever so slightly. Shaking his head, he put them on the cot saying, "What have I gotten myself into?"
"Fife. FIFE."
Fife, who was gazing out in a trance, saw someone snapping their fingers in front of his face. Blinking, Fife looked over at his friend, who was clearly taller and older. They were standing in the hallway, their backpacks already on them. Raising his brows, the friend said, clearly amused, "It's a rarity to see you space out. What's wrong?"
"Nothing's wrong, Max," Fife said, shaking his head slightly.
"Then what are you spacing out for?" Max said, pushing back his short hair needlessly. Fife glanced down the hallway a little more purposely as he pointed briefly saying, "Look. Over by the water fountain."
Max looked to see where his friend was pointing. A girl with hair falling down a good few inches past her shoulders was getting a drink from the fountain. Raising his brows, Max looked at his friend with a grin. Clapping his hand on Fife's shoulder, Max joked, "Great. The first girl you show any interest in and it's an elementary student."
"She's in sixth grade!" Fife said, defensively, "And I'm staring because she's the new violinist in our program."
Max whistled, shoving his hands in his pockets as he observed Alison stand up and begin to walk away from the fountain. She paused to peer up at the bulletin board as Max said, "Young… she must have been really good for Sergeant Avenant to pick her."
"Are you trying to get detention?" Fife said, watching his friend lean back against a locker. Max snorted as he said, "Like I need to try. I breathe and wind up doing backstage work for a month."
Max's watch beeped at him as he glanced at the time. Sighing, Max said, "I've got to go. Avenant wanted me to come help set up the equipment at the auditorium."
"In trouble already I see," Fife quipped at his friend. Max rolled his eyes and elbowed his friend saying, "See you later."
Max began to walk away but turned around saying, "Oh, and by the way? That was the lamest excuse I've ever heard for looking at a girl."
Fife rolled his eyes as his friend disappeared up a flight of stairs. Fife looked back just in time to see Alison begin to walk away from the bulletin board. A small group of girls walked past her as a familiar black haired girl purposefully tripped Alison.
"Geez! Watch where you are going, witch." Molly said, rudely as her few friends snickered to themselves. Alison didn't respond, but had her jaw clenched as she reached over to her fallen backpack. Some of its items fell out, and the girls walked away, snickering amongst themselves. Alison reached for some of her stuff as someone bent down next to her, picking up her glasses case. She looked up in surprise to see a boy she had never met before.
"Are you alright?"
Alison blinked before taking her case back from him saying, "Yeah… just the usual it seems."
"The usual?" Fife said, her voice sounding concerned, "That doesn't seem right."
"Whether it's right or not is irrelevant," Alison said with shrug as she shoved everything into her bag, standing up as she did so. Fife stood up with her, Alison finally getting a good look at him. She was slightly taken aback as she noticed he was a good foot taller than her, his hair falling into his face a bit. He was wearing the same male uniform that the other boys wore. Staring at him another moment she said, "Thank you. For helping me…"
"Not a problem," Fife said, "You're in Professor Avenant's program, right?"
"Yes," Alison said, "Why?"
"I'm Fife," he said grinning, "I'm in the same program."
"Oh!" Alison felt a little relieved at his statement, "What instrument?"
"My specific area is with the piccolo," Fife said smoothly, "And most of what Avenant wants me to learn."
The bell rang, signifying the second bell for the end of school. Fife glanced around as what was left of the people began to leave. Fife turned his attention back towards her as he said, "Well, I have some things I have to do. I hope to see you tomorrow at the meeting?"
Alison couldn't help but smile wryly as she said, "Of course… I don't think Professor Avenant would appreciate me not showing up."
"He wouldn't appreciate anyone not showing up." Fife said, his grin never ceasing, "Nice meeting you."
Fife then wandered over to the stairwell, walking up with his hands in his pockets. Alison watched as he disappeared out of sight and couldn't help but smile as she said softly, "Nice meeting you too…"
"That evil woman."
Snow looked up to see Emma sitting across from her. She was stabbing her French fries unusually hard into the ketchup as Henry was munching away on his burger happily. David just sipped his coffee with a grin as Emma continued, "She nearly dropped me into over a hundred foot ravine and expected me to be happy?"
"Well, you did manage to save yourself," Snow congratulated.
"Yeah after nearly dying!" Emma said, heatedly, "I did not sign up to drop head first into death or to learn incomprehensible languages! Why can't she just… there has got to be a better way to teach me this stuff!"
"There are steps Emma," David argued, "Magic isn't simply about doing it; otherwise everyone would have mastered it."
"It's not an easy thing to do, especially here," Henry piped in, "Even Alison had a hard time using it when the curse was still active."
"She did?"
"Rapunzel!"
Snow's happy voice interrupted their conversation, making the three other's look over towards the door. There stood a very pregnant Rapunzel, dressed in pink floral dress. Walking over to them, Rapunzel sat down in the chair near to their booth as Snow said, "You're looking well! I'm surprised you're still walking around."
"Oh it does me good," Rapunzel said, trying to keep her voice in good cheer, "Besides, if I'm laid up in bed, I'll never find my prince in time."
Emma smiled weakly at Rapunzel as Snow said reassuringly, "And find him you will. Why don't we get you something to eat? I'm sure you and the baby are hungry right about now."
Rapunzel nodded as Snow lead her away to the counter. They began to talk quietly among themselves as Emma looked back at the two boys. Emma held a confused expression as she looked around the diner. David noticed her do this as he asked, "What's wrong?"
"Hey kid," Emma said, her voice a little unsure, "Where's Alison? Did Gold ground her again?"
"No," Henry said, his voice sounding a little bummed, "She said she had to go do something. Something she wanted to do by herself."
David and Emma caught onto his tone as they watched him sympathetically. Emma reached out to grasp his hand as she said, "Henry, I know your bummed about the class you're in-."
"No, I'm not," Henry said, quickly, "I like my class. I've made more friends in this class than last year."
Emma and David looked surprised, exchanging glances. They looked back at Henry and asked, "So what's wrong?"
"I just… I don't want Operation Cobra to fall apart," Henry said, his voice wavering, "I want to help Alison out before…"
Henry trailed off, staring down into his food. Emma squeezed his hand as she asked gently, "Before what, Henry?"
Henry just glanced up at Emma with a dead expression as he muttered, "Just that we might not have as long as we thought we did…"
Alison knocked on the door.
She couldn't believe she was standing here. The big white house towered over her, making her feel smaller than she wanted to. However, she very well knew that she needed to do this. There was no other way around it. Rocking nervously on her feet, Alison waited for the door to open.
It did eventually open, revealing Regina in a black dress that accented every curve the woman had. She looked surprised to see her, even going as far as asking, "Alison! What can I do for you?"
"I've come to reconsider your offer," Alison said, staring up at Regina to look her in the eye.
Regina looked even more surprised before shaking her head slightly. Smiling down at Alison, she moved aside to let her in. Alison did so quickly as Regina held a triumphant look upon her face. She shut the door, locking them away from the people outside. Regina then walked up the few steps where Alison was already standing. Regina then said cautiously, "So I'm assuming getting your Grandfather to teach you was harder than you thought."
"Not harder," Alison said, with a sigh, "Just impossible."
Alison followed Regina into her sitting room. There was a newspaper on the table, the title in big black letter's stating 'New Chief Editor of the Paper: Change for the Better.' Alison noticed the woman in the picture was smiling, her blond ringlets falling down about her face. Alison tilted her head as Regina said, "I was just reading that before you came. It seems somebody rich bought out the Newspaper."
"Who is she?" Alison asked, staring at the paper before looking up at Regina. Regina made a face, obviously displeased about something. But she looked at Alison, allowing a polite business façade to take over. Regina indicated towards the seats as she said, "Someone from back in our land that isn't very fond of me. But enough of that, let's get back to our own business."
Regina sat on the arm chair as Alison sat on the couch. Regina nodded at Alison as she said, "I hope you aren't truly upset with him. I know he is just trying to protect you."
"It's pointless," Alison said, "If I don't get better, I'm as good as dead."
"I agree," Regina said, "But regardless, he does have his reasons. Just… don't forget that."
Alison didn't comment on it but nodded all the same. Regina then waved her hands, a book appearing in front of Alison. It was leather with a jeweled heart in the middle. Alison froze, her heart nearly stopping as she saw it. Regina opened her mouth to speak when she saw the look on Alison's face. Alison had picked up the book, examining it carefully. She opened it to read the pages within. Regina watched Alison, a look of sympathy growing on her face. Regina opened her mouth and this time asked the question that was on her mind.
"Something the matter?"
"What?" Alison looked up at her with a bit of a lost expression before shaking her head saying, "No, sorry. It's just… it looks like the books the Queen of Hearts had…"
Regina watched her, Alison flipping through the pages. Regina then asked softly, as if it partially pained her to do it, "Were you and the Queen of Hearts close?"
Alison bit her lip as she said, "Closer than we should have been…"
Regina bit her lip slightly before shaking her head saying indifferently, "Well, then I hope you are familiar with Elvish? Miss Swan seemed cross with learning that way…"
"I am," Alison said with a grin, "I heard she didn't like the other way either."
"Well she can stop whining like a baby," Regina said, "I hope that you won't whine the same way?"
"No," Alison said, "I won't… however we face another problem…"
"What?"
"Gold," Alison said, "He won't want me to use magic. Or explore anything really…"
"Yes, we gathered that much," Regina said.
"Which means we have to do this discreetly," Alison said, "Meeting too many times would surely arise suspicion."
"Indeed it would," Regina said, "Without reasonable explanation as well…"
Regina looked thoughtful as she leaned back in the chair. Alison finally put the book down as Regina snapped her fingers saying, "I've got it just the thing!"
"Well, well, well, this isn't a face that I expected to see."
The woman froze, before letting out a smirk and laying the papers down on the sleek brown desk. She was standing in an office with white walls and filing cabinets. The carpet was grey as the shelving units were brown and held many books upon it. Currently, someone was standing in the door way with a business smirk on his face. Her smirk remained as she straightened out her cotton black dress as she said, "I'm sorry, can I help you?"
Her male visitor entered and flicked his hand upwards. The shades blocked off the windows and the door shut and locked. The woman breathed in deeply as she mockingly, "Mr. Gold."
"Now now, real names please," Gold said smoothly, "Let's not start this mutual understanding with lies."
She looked amused as she waved her hand. Two glasses of scotch appeared as she picked them up. Handing one to Gold, she then said, "Very well Rumpelstiltskin."
"Maleficent," Gold said taking the glass from her before taking a sip, "How have you been?"
"I've been well," Maleficent said walking around her desk as she said, "Even with that little stunt with the removal of the egg."
"Yes, so sorry about that," Gold said smoothly as she sat down. Gold sat opposite of her as he said, "Simply business. I am sure you can understand that?"
"Oh yes," Maleficent said, "Even though your business led those two to sending me into my monstrous demon state."
"I'm sorry," Gold said, "Two?"
"Yes," Maleficent said, "A blonde woman with a strange weapon and a young girl that is quick on her feet. She was very pretty from what I could see…"
Gold made a face as he staring around the office. Maleficent looked pleased as she said, "Was someone else not supposed to be down there with the Savior?"
"No, no there wasn't," Gold said, "But it's something I shall easily remedy."
"What do you want from me, Rumple?" Maleficent said, "Because I don't feel like sharing plans."
"I don't want to know your plan, dearie," Gold said smoothly, "Your business is your own. I just want to ensure that we still remain on good terms."
"Good terms?" Maleficent held a laugh in her voice, "Why? Didn't you give up your dark powers for your loved one?"
Gold smirked as he raised his hand. Maleficent suddenly felt uneasy. Shadows crept on the wall as Gold looked at her intently. Maleficent swallowed as he said, "Oh I may have lost the Dark One's powers and it's for the better of everyone. However…"
Maleficent noticed a mark on his hand begin to glow. A rather elaborate T could be seen as he said malevolently, "It doesn't mean my essence has changed. So what do you say?"
Maleficent smiled as she said, "Well Rumple, it's nice to have a Troublemaker sitting in the Master's place… and as well as a friend."
The sun was peeping over the ridge as the blues in the sky became more visible. It cast a light over a splendid white castle surrounded by white blossom trees. Petals seem to fall to the ground, giving the illusion of white snow. The birds tweeted in the air, making beautiful music as a woman walked in her gardens. She wore a coat of white, covering her A-Line style gown underneath. Her white hair was up in a bun as her face look like she was in her fifties. She had a modesty to her that suited her beauty well. But her face was sad as she stared at the fountain that had blossoms floating within. She sat down on the bench near it, her hands folded gracefully. She stared into the fountain with grievance in her eyes.
"My Queen!"
The Queen glanced over to see a man in white armor bow deeply. She waved her hand and he continued speaking, "The Red Queen is here to see you."
"I know," the White Queen said, her voice light and airy, "Send her here and go tell my daughter she's not to jump on her bed anymore or the bruise she just got on her wrist won't be the last one she gives herself."
The soldier bowed his head as he turned and left promptly. The White Queen looked off dismally into the garden. Sighing, the White Queen said, "I miss the laughter… I'd wish it to come back…"
"Muttering to yourself again?"
The White Queen glanced over to see the Red Queen walking over to her. Her dress was red and the bodice was embroidered with gold glittering thread. It was far from modest, the wispy skirts wrapping around her legs as she walked. Her fur trimmed gloves were dark mahogany as the woman said, "Of course, you always that way. Worrying about things that haven't come to be."
"Hello sister," The White Queen said, "Has your companion left you bored already?"
"How-Oh nevermind, I should know better," the Queen muttered, her red dress dragging on the ground. The Queen glanced to see the Red Queens Tweedles standing their proudly. They were tall and hair of white. They wore the red colors that their Queen took pride in. The Queen smiled gracefully as she said, "That bruise to your forehead must hurt terribly."
The Queen stopped and looked at the White Queen warily, saying, "What bruise?"
"I'm sure you shall feel it soon," White Queen said elegantly, "As I and other's do."
"No one feels what you do." The Red Queen muttered.
"Sister," the White Queen said, "Don't be so mean. I'm older and my heart is not what it used to be."
"No, no you're just feeling things before it's time," the Red Queen said firmly. The Red Queen looked into the gardens as did the White Queen. The White Queen held a weak smile as she said, "I remember smiles and laughter… A young girl dancing to the fiddle of a certain Cheshire Cat."
"One you fancied if I recall," The Red Queen said, crossing her arms.
"His love was meant for another," the White Queen dreamed, her eyes glowing happily at the memory, "But it was fun while it lasted… She was fun…"
"While she lasted," The Red Queen said bitterly.
"Sister, I mean it," The White Queen said, her voice breaking, "it hurts to hear you talk that way."
"Well what would you like me to say?" The Red Queen snapped, "The little creature is gone and is not coming back."
"I would beg to differ."
The Queen's looked up to see a female lounging on one of the trees. Her hair was long and her body lean. Both of the Queens recognized her immediately as the woman moved to stand on her knees and hands. The White Queen stood up as she said, "Sofronia. I didn't even sense you coming."
"No, you wouldn't Majesty," the woman leaped down from the tree, snapping small branches as she did so. One smacked the Red Queen on top of her forehead and she yelped. Backing away, she looked coldly at the White Queen but the older woman paid no attention. She looked at Sofronia with wide eyes as she said, "You've never been able to sense things properly when the Mage of Wonderland leaves her scent."
"Mage of –Sofronia, why must you too be cruel," the White Queen cried, obviously upset, "Our Mage has long been lost, Wonderland in a long sleeping peace because of her."
"Lost but now found," Sofronia said, "And Wonderland shall soon sleep no more. The Outlands have awoken."
The White Queen gasped as the Red Queen looked mortified. Sofronia grinned as she said sweetly, "Our Mage of Wonderland is once more."
The man took a drink of his whiskey as he sat in the chair. He was watching the computer monitors lazily, people walking along the streets of Storybrooke. He was in a dark basement, a bed crammed in the corner with boxes, tools, and other items piled around him. There was only a light above him, dimly illuminating. He preferred it that way, the dull ache in his head less prominent. His eyes were slightly unfocused as he swirled the liquid around in the glass.
Taking another huge gulp, he became a little more alert as he noticed something. An eleven year old girl was walking down the street, talking to a man in a suit. He narrowed his eyes as he leaned forward, resting his arms on the rickety old desk saying, "So that's who you ran off to, you little brat. Well, that's just not gonna fly."
He leaned back in the chair; grasping the bottle of whiskey near him as he sloppily poured some more into his glass. He then muttered, "Spoiled Brats never get what they want."
"A sleep over?"
Alison was drying the dishes off as Gold had his hands in the sink. Belle was putting food away in the refrigerator as she said, "Yeah, it's been kinda hard to meet up with Henry outside the school. Especially now with practice that starts tomorrow."
"I would imagine so," Gold said, scrubbing the last dish. Alison glanced over at Belle to see her disappear out of the kitchen as she dried off the glass in her hand. Placing it on the counter, Alison watched as Gold handed her the disk saying, "Well, I do not mind. As long as Miss Swan and that Piper doesn't mind as well."
"They don't. Henry's already asked them," Alison said, relieved. Gold smiled as she put the rag down and began to put the dishes away. Gold watched her as he reached out to tuck a stray hair to behind her ear. Alison looked up at him as she shut the cabinet as he twirled a lock of her hair. She waited for him to speak, not moving and staring at him. Finally he said, "Your hair has gotten long again… even your bangs have grown out…"
Alison swallowed, watching him as she said, "I might cut it again soon…"
Gold let his hand fall to her shoulder and he lead her out of the kitchen. Alison looked a little worried as he said, "We have a gift for you."
"A gift?"
"Yes," Gold said, as he glanced to see Belle coming out of the room with a silk dress hanging over her arm. Alison stopped, staring at it nervously. Belle looked at her shyly as she said, "I know you didn't like dress shopping. So Red and I picked out a dress for you."
Alison didn't move, as she looked at it. Belle swallowed nervously as she said, "I do hope you like it."
Gold noticed Alison's inaction as he said, "Why don't you go upstairs and try it on?"
"Right," Alison said, her voice small. Then shaking her head, Alison promptly walked over to Belle taking the dress saying, "Thank you. As you said before, I'm not very fond of shopping."
Belle beamed, obviously quite pleased. Alison smiled at her, but as she went to climb the stairs she allowed her smile to drop. Climbing them quickly, she disappeared out of sight. Gold walked over to her as Belle said, "Oh I hope she likes it! It's been rather hard to get through to her… Ever since she woke me up, she's been so distant…"
"Sweetheart, she loves you," Gold reassured, pecking a kiss to her lips, "Besides, you did see the smile on her face. She loved it."
Belle smile remained as Gold stole another kiss. The phone rang loudly and Belle parted from him as she said, "I'll go get it! It's probably Red for the bachelorette party..."
"Then you should definitely go," Gold encouraged, "I'll go check on Alison."
Belle happily went off into the other room. Gold smiled after her before going up the stairs. Gold could feel Alison's aura coming off vibrantly. Gold was constantly astonished by how powerful just her aura was. It always seemed so in tune with her emotions, which was very unusual. However, what alarmed him now is that she seemed to be upset. Concerned, Gold opened the door saying, "Dearie, is something the matter-?"
He opened the door to see her spinning around, her back pressed up against her closet door. Gold couldn't help but notice that she was in the dress. It felt to her knees, floating gracefully. The neckline was high, collared with gold choker. The color suited her perfectly, bringing out the deep chestnut color in her hair and the blue of her eyes. But what alarmed him is that she looked quite upset.
"What's wrong?" Gold said, shutting the door behind him, "You look beautiful."
"It-It's nothing," Alison stammered.
"Autumn," Gold said, his voice firm, "Don't lie. Do you not like the dress?"
"No, the dress is very pretty," Alison said quickly but then added with a small voice, "It's just… the back…"
Gold's eyes were firm as he said, "Show me."
Alison cringed but slowly turned around to show him the back. On her upper back was a heart shaped opening, showing her bareback. Gold gritted his teeth as he saw what the problem was. There were scars, scars that were quite visible. They weren't as bad as say the one that was on his leg, however they were quite noticeable. Deep down, he knew that it was a slap to her face. Anger filled him, anger towards the man who deserved to burn in hell for all eternity. Alison let off a tremble, making him snap out of it. Gold quickly walked over to her as he said, "Easily fixable."
Waving his hand, gold jewels appeared. They were on strings that stretched over the hole. It was enough to conceal the scars. There was a knock at the door as Belle called through, "Rumple, I'm just going out for a bit. Red said she wanted to show me something for the party."
"Alright, dear," Gold said smoothly, "Go on."
Belle's heels could be heard clicking along the floor. She descended down the stairs as Gold couldn't help but hear a sniffle. Gold looked back down in time to see Alison hastily wiping her eyes.
"Oh, sweetheart," Gold said turning her around to see her glassy eyes, "Don't cry, don't cry…"
Gold wiped away her tears as he reassured her, "The dress is always going to be lovely just because you are wearing it, not the other way around."
Gold kissed her forehead gently as he said, "Now get into your pajamas… so we can talk some before you go off to bed."
Alison couldn't help but smile as he got up and left the room. Once the door clicked shut, Alison changed into the fleece pajama's she loved. Hanging the dress back up, she hurried up the hidden flights of stairs to where the extra study was. There she could hear Gold talking, his voice sounding annoyed. Breathing in deeply, Alison stopped and listened to him.
"-when I ask for something done, I want it done. There will be no excuses!" Alison's stomach turned as she heard the iciness in his voice. "No, you finish the job or so help me god, you'll pay for it."
Alison heard the phone slam down and she flinched. Biting her lip, Alison heard him sigh as the chair scratched light against the floor. Taking this as an okay to enter, Alison walked into the room quietly to see him sitting at his desk with his face in his hands. The study was filled with shelves of books and trinkets as Alison saw a piano sitting in the near center of the room. But she was more worried about him at the moment as she asked softly, "What was that about?"
"Nothing to be concerned about," Gold said, "Just some imbeciles that can't comprehend the meaning of signing a contract."
Alison walked over to him, a nervous feeling settling in her stomach. Stopping by his chair, Alison reached out and touched his hair. Gold didn't move as Alison asked timidly, "Why not just forgive the contract? You've forgiven others."
"I've forgiven others because it was pointless to torture families and a person of good heart," Gold said, "This one is different."
Alison opened her mouth as she watched him lean back in his chair. He looked deep in thought, and Alison couldn't help but be curious. However, she decided to let the matter drop as she sat on his lap saying, "That's two questions. Two questions that you have yet to ask."
Gold looked up into her blue eyes as she whispered softly, "Unless you're going to forgive that arrangement as well…"
Gold couldn't help but smirk as he scolded, "None of that. I'm not forgiving any of our deals. We may complete them, but forgiveness is out of the question."
Alison squeaked as Gold tickled her sides, play in his eyes. She squirmed, giggling as he tickled her sides. However, he released her as she tried to stop giggling. Gold then leaned in and said, "But if you'll allow it. I would rather ask you favors instead of questions."
Alison nodded as she straightened herself up. Staring into her eyes once more, Gold said, "My first request is that after practice tomorrow, you spend the afternoon and evening with Belle. I'm afraid I have business to attend to and she would like some company. Can you do that for me?"
Alison watched him for a moment before nodding her head firmly. Gold then smiled, tapping her nose affectionately, "That's my girl. And just one other thing… another thing that might anger you."
Alison looked confused as his smile faded into an impassive stare. Gold tapped the arm to his chair as he said, "I don't want you helping Emma Swan with magic anymore. Or the Charmings, or anyone else from Storybrooke that comes to you wishing for magical solution to their problem. You are trespassing on my territory and I need you to stop."
Alison leaned back, the trouble she faced in her heart returning. Swallowing, Alison asked with the utmost care, "And what if I refuse?"
The displeasure that showed in his eyes was almost enough of an answer for her. It made her stomach turn, and she could help but set her own jaw. Leaning in, Alison said with a controlled tone, "I'm NOT one of your pawns on your chessboard."
"Then don't put yourself on it," Gold said simply but sternly. Alison looked away, her facial expression stubborn as she could be. Gold's impassive look went to aghast as he gently grasped her chin to have her looking at him. She did not budge until he said with a softer tone, "Autumn, I can't express enough how much it would devastate me to lose you because the Charmings can't see past their own nose. Please… trust me."
Those two little words carried much hope, as well as his plea. She couldn't help but feel, the doubt slowly being replaced by encouragement. Looking back at him, she put on a pathetic smile as she said, "Fine. You are their Mage, after all. What business is it of mine to say no."
Gold looked relieved and pleased at once, as if he had not been expecting her to agree. Leaning in, he kissed her cheek murmuring, "Thank you."
Alison went to get off of his lap when he stopped her. His face had gone serious again as Gold said, "I'm afraid I still need to talk to you about something."
Alison froze as Gold opened and drawer and pulled out a file. Her file. Shivers went through her as she looked at him emptily.
"Emma told you…"
"Yes, Dearie, she did," Gold said, "I haven't read through it yet, however."
Alison looked at his suspiciously, fidgeting with the hem of her sleeves. Gold wrapped and arm around her as he asked, "I wanted to talk to you about it first. So someone has activated the Deck of Cards."
"So it seems," Alison said wearily, "Someone who is clearly here."
"Any idea as to who?"
"It could be anyone with enough power to make it work," Alison said, miserably, "I've made plenty of enemies in the Upper Lands of Wonderland and it wouldn't surprise me if they figured out a way to get here."
Gold nodded softly, frowning. His brown eyes were staring at her intently, as if searching for answers. Alison swallowed when he started to speak again.
"I debated just sitting down and reading this file," Gold said, "But in debating, I realized something; something I don't like. I know nothing. I know barely anything about your time in the foster system, your time in Wonderland. Unlike us, your story is a mystery. Unwritten and untold. It frustrates me, because I want to know. But you won't tell me and I know reading this file deprives you of that privilege of telling me."
Gold reached up to stroke her cheek as her eyes grew glassy. A tear escaped down her cheek, getting swiped away by his thumb. Gold watched her as he said, "What can I do, Alison? How am I supposed to protect you if your story stays shut up inside you?"
Alison took a deep breath in. She looked at her file with a dead expression before looking back at him.
"Read it."
Gold blinked, watching her as she continued to speak, "Read it, because I know there are things in there I can't ever talk about again. All that story tells you is how people didn't care enough… to keep me in their family or keep me safe. I am so tired of having to try to explain things I don't even understand."
Alison sniffled, pulling away from his hand as she wiped her eyes on her sleeve. His brown eyes were sad as he whispered, "I'm sorry, little leaf… I don't want to do this to hurt you."
"I know," Alison said breathing in deep, "I know…"
Gold embraced her, hugging tight as she said, "I love you."
"I love you too," Gold murmured, "Head on to bed, I will be down in a few minutes. I owe you extra reading time tonight as it is."
Her heart soothed herself, the apology in his voice ringing clear. Alison got up and walked over to the door. She was about to leave when Gold said.
"What about Wonderland, Dearie? Is that the same as this?"
Alison stopped. Her body tensed once again, making Gold nervous. Had he pushed too much? It seemed that way. He was about to get up and console her when she finally spoke.
"It's no use going back to yesterday, I was a different person then," she said softly, "And I'm not sure you would like that person from then."
With that, Alison left him alone to his puzzled thoughts.
The woman sighed as she walked on her way home.
It was dark outside and the woman was dressed in a nice purple wool coat. Her boot heels clicked along the side walk as she walked down an empty street, leading her off into a quiet part of town. She had glanced down at her watch to check the time when she heard something noisily clatter to the ground. Turning around, she looked to see if someone was behind her. No one was there, so she turned to move on.
Only to find a man with a cruel smile on his face.
"Hello, doll," he said mockingly, "Aren't you a pretty one?"
The woman tried to run only for the man to grab her by the neck with one hand practically forced her into a light post. She yelped, choking as he clutched her neck. His messy hair fell into his face and his facial hair was just as sloppy as his appearance. Eyeing her necklace, he grabbed the golden necklace and tugged. She whimpered as it broke off and he said, "Now, now, don't be like that… Stand still and I'll be nice."
He leaned forward and said menacingly, "It's been a long time since I have had such a beautiful soul to feed on…"
Temperance Tales: I give credit to Bizzarieve for all his help. I do not own Once Upon A Time and I give full credit to its creators. I give the fairytale's owners their full credits such as The Nightmare before Christmas and stories that Once Upon a Time hasn't done or is just plain different from mine. Read and Review.
