Chapter Sixty One: Shaking.
"How are you alive?"
Alison couldn't stop herself from asking that. After all, last she knew, he had been buried with a bullet in his head. Darren smirked as he approached her menacingly. Grabbing a bottle off a nearby stack of boxes, Darren took a swing of it before he said, "Wondrous question isn't it? I'm thinking if I should bother telling you."
Alison stared at him with a cold expression. Swaying slightly, Darren took another sip as he watched her. Shaking his head slightly, he pointed at her, saying, "You're a little rat, you know that?"
Alison, whose expression had fallen into one of extreme dislike, stared at him silently as he walked closer to her. He glared at her as he barked a laugh saying, "All you had to do was hide for a few days and we would have been fine, as usual. But no, you had to go running to the sheriff and let things get messy. So messy that I got shot in the head. Not that that can kill me…"
Alison didn't move, as she was calculating how dangerous it would be to do anything. Pyry was the strongest of Antic's ice minerals; she could already feel it affecting her for the worse. There was a click to open it, but she would need him to leave… or be distracted enough for her to do something. And not only that, if she was right in her assumptions…
"You're the one that's been attacking everyone."
Darren reached over, grabbing her chin. Alison swallowed as he jerked her face towards him. His eyes were angry, a type of anger that Alison had seen very rarely in people. He then spoke lowly as he said, "A useful little ability I grew up with… it's useful when you want to be the strongest of them all. But then again, her Majesty always took interest in people like us, didn't she Alice?"
Alison froze as Darren gave her chin a squeeze before backing off. He smirked as he walked over to a chest that was on top of some boxes. It wasn't fancy by any means. Darren chucked the bottle against the wall. Flinching, Alison asked, "What are you talking about?"
"Oh come now, Alice," Darren said, cruelly. "Surely, the Queen must have told you about the former King of Hearts."
Alison's poker face returned, but she pressed her back against the wall. She breathed in deeply as she felt the fear build up inside her. Swallowing, Alice watched as Darren opened the chest and rummaged through it. She then said lowly, "She said she exiled you… for treason."
"Treason!" Darren barked out laughter as he said, "All I did was give that TOAD what she deserved. Or at least tried to… she had many tricks up her sleeve."
Alison didn't say anything more as Darren turned back towards her with a box in his hand. His look was filled with mockery and hatred as he walked over to her saying, "I remembered that life…. After I met you and Elizabeth, it started coming back in bits and pieces. Luckily, that werecat never met me before so my secret was safe. At least, until I revealed myself. Then I saw the mark on your hand and I knew who you were. But the sheriff intervened, and I had to improvise."
"Why didn't Elizabeth every say anything?" Alison asked harshly, "IF you really are who you say you are."
Darren laughed cruelly as he said, "She couldn't. I made sure of that."
Darren then opened the box again, this time the glow brighter. Reaching inside, Darren said, "It took some time. But once I got over the magical resistance here in this world, I ripped out her heart."
Darren pulled it out as Alison breathed in deeply. Darren smirk never faded as he said, "A wonder… Cheshire Cats hearts still live on even after they have perished. No one knows why… but it was a beautiful momentum for me to hold onto. A reminder of the look on her face when she realized what an error she made…"
Darren smirked at Alison saying, "Well, I shouldn't have to explain what having her heart means. You were the Queen's pet after all."
Alison glared at him as Darren sneered at her saying, "When the sheriff attacked me I knew there was only one way out. I played dead after she shot me, knowing full well as long as no one destroyed my body I would recover. Luckily for me, the Mayor never bothered to have me cremated. So while that idiot was burying me I had recovered enough to steal his life force and bury his sorry but in my grave."
Alison gritted her teeth as she heard the smugness in his voice. Darren noticed as he put the heart away. Striking out, he hit her solidly on the side of the head. Alison refrained from whimpering, even though her vision speckled a moment. He grabbed her by the hair as he said, "I do remember telling you never to cut your hair… once again BRAT I'm going to have to make my point."
Alison spat in his face, making him snarl. Pushing her against the wall, Darren said lowly, "You always were a little firecracker. However, there is no one to save you or distract me this time."
Alison screeched as she felt something stabbed her side. She reflexively kicked him as he swore. He backed away, his lip beginning to swell a bit from her kick. In his hand was a syringe. Alison suddenly gasped, her chest suddenly getting very tight. It was like a wild fire except she felt like she was freezing on the inside. Collapsing on the bed, Alison shivered as Darren leaned back down again saying, "Oh do I have plans for you."
There was a smashing of the glass; the look on Gold's face went beyond rage. They were in the shop, the atmosphere suffocating. Emma swallowed, never feeling anything like this magic since… ever. In fact none of them had seen Rumpelstiltskin in state such as this. Regina shifted uncomfortably as Belle rushed forward grabbing his arm saying, "Rumple-!"
"OFF," Gold said menacingly, "Me now."
Belle let him go, the fear illuminating on her face. Tears threatened to come as Regina interrupted quickly, "We have to find her. Gold, have you figured out any way-?"
"Of tracking her?!" Gold barked, "Have we not been over this already?! SHE IS UNTRACKABLE!"
"Gold stop it!" Regina snapped, her hands on her hips, "Screaming and breaking things is not going to help us find her."
"Us?!" Gold said shortly, "There is no us! I will handle this after I've sent his remains to the Netherworld!"
Gold then turned on his heel as he stalked towards the exit of his shop. Stopping in front of Regina and Emma, Gold hissed before leaving them alone, "And anyone who happens to get in my way is charcoal."
The three women were left standing in the shop alone, all of them shaken up. Regina breathed in, her aura irritated. Belle wiped her eyes, asking waveringly, "So where is everyone else?"
"Kathryn is watching Henry and the other children while everyone else is out looking for her," Emma said, walking away from the counter she had been by, "David and the Dwarves are covering the woods. Red is with others at the water front. Belle, is it possible for you to track down any possible way of tracking her or Darren?"
"I-I can tried," Belle said, sniffing as she rubbed her arms, "I'll call you if I find something…"
Regina and Emma exchanged expression as Regina gave Emma a nod. Leaving the shop, Emma was left alone with the librarian. Emma walked over to her and put her hand on her shoulder. Belle looked up into Emma's eyes as Emma looked at her comfortingly.
"I know he's…beyond unreasonable right now. But don't take it to heart. He's just afraid… last time Alison just barely made it back before she froze to death…and Darren came so close to killing her last time-"
"I-I understand," Belle said, nodding her head to keep herself calm, "Believe me, I do. I just…I'll get started on those books."
Emma watched as Belle went into the back of the shop. Biting her lip, she pulled out a cell phone as she went to leave the shop. Regina was waiting outside as Emma texted away on her phone. Frowning, Regina asked, "What are you doing?"
"I want someone to stay with Belle," Emma said, "I don't trust Darren. I know that he's pig enough to do anything to make Alison pay."
"So what are we going to do? As much as I hate saying this, we need Gold's help to defeat him!" Regina said.
"Right now, we just need to get Alison away from him," Emma said, "I want to go talk to the Cheshire Cat."
"The Cat?" Regina asked, "Why?"
"He's her oldest friend," Emma said, "He's got to know a way to find her."
There was a screech in the air.
Baelfire was alerted by it, but not startled. He hid among the tree's watching the boys get into position. They were low in the bushes, ready to strike at the warriors coming their way. Baelfire remembered the game, even though it had been a long time since he had played it. In fact he wasn't really supposed to be playing, he was supposed to be monitoring… Peter wouldn't exactly approve but he did leave him to do it his way…
There was a small noise down before, earning quite a few shushes. Baelfire looked directly below him to see Marcus shifting nervously in the bushes. Baelfire frowned, feeling his nervousness. This boy didn't belong here… He should have had Tink bring him home before. The wind rustled the trees loudly, as if protesting to Baelfire's thoughts. Waving his hand impatiently, Baelfire muttered softly, "Chill out, you know he doesn't belong here."
The wind died down as Baelfire watched as the warriors began to creep into view. They held their spears aloft as they walked into the trap. Baelfire relaxed as he saw that no one was coming towards Marcus.
Then there were screams.
Baelfire watched as the boys set off the traps, sending some of the warriors flying up in the air. The nets kept them trapped as they squirmed. The boys went after them, the warriors brandishing their sticks. They clashed with the boys' weapons, enough to be startling. Marcus charged forward, clumsily as he struck a younger warrior. The warrior winced but swung his stick out, sending Marcus stumbling back into the bushes. The young warrior was the chief's son, something he was sure Marcus did not know. Marcus scrambled back as the warrior went to strike at him. Marcus raised up his hands as Bae heard the tinkling of music.
Marcus vanished, leaving the warrior to strike the ground.
The warrior stumbled, looking a little stupefied. Baelfire snorted as he watched the warrior look around. An angry look crossed his face as he flung his stick around, hitting a teen boy in the side of the head with the wooded end. The boy fell and Baelfire jumped down from the tree. Baelfire flung himself at the boy, skillfully sending the warrior to the ground. Baelfire yanked free the staff before the young warrior could ever breathe. Baelfire held the spear menacingly as the warrior closed his eyes in fear. He had broken a rule, the only rule in the whole game and he was surely to pay the price.
Or so he thought.
Baelfire stabbed the ground with the spear, the game stopping immediately. Warriors and boys alike watched with wide eyes as Baelfire hissed in their native tongue, "You will not play this game if you do that again. I shall make sure of it."
"An old method of sending messages."
Jefferson froze as he allowed the pigeon to fly away. Gritting his teeth, Jefferson turned around as he said, "I'm assuming you're here for the same reason I'm sending that message."
Gold walked towards him a rather cold look on his expression. Jefferson was not surprised by it as Gold said, "And who would warrant such a message?"
"The other Mages," Jefferson said, "Tzila might be able to find her quicker."
"I thought other Mage's couldn't interfere in the business of other Mages?" Gold's tone was dripping with taunt, his expression of a dangerous kind. Jefferson held his own dark expression as he said, "You'll find that with Alison, the rules don't always typically apply. Unless she says so specifically…"
"Of course not," Gold seethed, "But this chit chat is a waste of my time."
"As it is of mine," Jefferson said heatedly, "So get to your point."
"You were with Alison in Wonderland for a long time," Gold said, stopping a few feet, "How in the world did you keep track of her?"
Jefferson snorted as he laughed slightly madly into his hand. Gold's jaw was clenched tight as Jefferson looked back up at him deadpanned as he said, "I didn't find her, she found me. Everyone knows that Alison cannot be found unless by accident..."
Gold growled and turned on his heel as to leave. Jefferson bit the inside of his mouth, as if biting on his pride. Clearing his throat, Jefferson said, "However, I do have a way of tracking the King of Hearts."
Gold turned on his heel as Jefferson walked towards him saying, "I've never actually met him, being that Victoria, Aislinn's sister, kept him close to her in fear of losing him. Something that eventually became her downfall… However, Aislinn told me that his magic has a certain pulse, one that sticks out when focused on by the right person."
"And why-?"
"Old injury," Jefferson said, almost smirking at the memory of the story, "Needless to say, Aislinn was more of a fighter than you originally thought."
"Enough nostalgia," Gold growled, "Thank you for that bit of info."
"Yeah, but you're not going after him alone," Jefferson said, quickly.
"I don't take orders from you, dearie," Gold warned.
"You do when I'd rather not tack on another horror Alison has to witness," Jefferson said, walking towards Gold some more, "As much as she hates Darren, she's not ready to stomach your brand of punishment yet."
Gold stared at him, the storm in his eyes worsening. However he didn't say anything in protest so Jefferson said, "You deal with Darren, I get her out of there. No need to work together anymore than that."
"Fine," Gold said in a hiss, "Just don't get in my way."
Jefferson grimaced before saying, "Wouldn't dream of it."
"I'm sorry my Queen. We can't find them!"
A slap resounded as everyone in the room winced. The servants kept their heads bowed as the Queen yelled at her Tweedles, "You need to find them! How hard could it be to find one little girl and an irritating common thief-!"
"Well considering that thief is your ex lover…"
Everyone in the room froze as The White Queen walked in with grace and sincerity. No one dared moved as Eracebeth sat on her throne and said, "Sissy. You're looking well for someone walking on enemy territory."
"Oh I don't know," The White Queen said, airily, "I was aware that this game was already quite done."
The Red Queen's face went sour as she shouted, "Leave us!"
The servants scattered, as did the Tweedles. Eracebeth stared at her sister coldly as the door shut with the last servant. The White Queen approached her as Eracebeth said, "We had an agreement! We keep the game going and Cora will be forced to keep to the Upperlands."
"Eracebeth, that memory is long gone," The White Queen said, "It is about time we accepted that."
"No!" Eracebeth jumped of the throne almost as she walked over to her sister and said, "No. We keep to our plan. We can use the brat as leverage-!"
The White Queen laughed as she said, "Leverage, for a child she hates to love and loves to hate. I do think you are out of it."
"Hates? Are we talking about the same child?" Red Queen asked confused. The White Queen walked over to the window as the Red Queen sighed in exasperation as she said, "Talking of future events once again, I really should know better by now…"
"Oh you should," The White Queen said with a sigh, "But sadly you never will."
"As you continue to mock me," Red Queen muttered madly.
"Not mocking dear," The White Queen said turning as she said softly, "But dear, the Compendium is our way of life. We must follow it."
"I refused to let a cheater take my place!" The Red Queen snapped, "Our game is still afoot sister!"
The White Queen sighed tiredly as she said, "I wish you were right, Sister. But that will never be so either."
"Cat!"
Chess winced as he heard the voice, making him hiss in protest. Instead he went back to his work, mixing the watery paste together. Emma and Regina came into the back of his shop, both of them looking serious.
"Cat, we need your help," Regina said, "Alison is missing."
"I am aware of that little conundrum," Chess said smoothly.
"We need a way to find her," Emma said urgently, "And we hoped you-."
"Chesshire?"
A painting swung open, revealing a woman that Emma vaguely remembered. Regina frowned as she looked from Chesshire to the two woman nervously. However, it wasn't until Emma saw the little boy by her legs that she remembered who they were.
"Danny!" Emma said, "Dinah, what are you doing here? I tried calling you this morning."
"I brought them here," Chess said, before Dinah could speak, "She is my half-sister after all. Mother would murder me if I didn't protect them. I thought I told you to stay in the safe room."
"I know, but Danny is-," Dinah started as Danny piped in, "Where is Autumn!?"
Emma's stomach swooped as Regina's jaw tightened. Dinah looked devastated as Chess said, "Alison will be fine, Danny. Go back with Dinah to the room. I will come get your when it is safe."
Danny looked tearful but allowed Dinah to lead him back into the room. The painting shut as Chess sighed, tending to his work.
"He's frightened," Chess said, "As he should be."
"So wait?" Emma said baffled, "They are both Chesshire Cats?"
"Dinah is full, Danny is a mix like myself," Chess said, "Now, you both came here for a reason?"
"We need to find Alison," Emma said, "We were hoping you would have a way to find her."
"I do," Chess said.
"You do?" Regina asked, soundly slightly surprised.
"That I do," Chess said as he poured the paste into a rounded vial. Chess capped it and tied a string around it. Chess glanced at them as he swung it around saying, "Finding Alice herself is extremely difficult. No one's exactly sure why, however it is possible to develop ways to find her, such as the things she keeps on her person."
The vial began to glow as Emma was in slight awe. Regina stood impatiently as Chess said, "I gave her a necklace not too long ago. In it is a special stone, one found in the ground beneath my home in the Cheshire Forest. I only made one half of the necklace with the stone…"
Chess finally allowed it to stop swinging. The pasty liquid seemed to have solidified, glowing bright colors dimly. Chess held it out as he said, "This is the other half… as the halves get closer together, this one will glow brighter."
Emma reached out for it only for Chess to jerk it away. Emma looked confused as Regina snapped, "Cat we don't have time for your games."
"Not a game," Chess warned, "I'll allow you to accompany me. However, my main goal is to simply remove Alison from the immediate danger. You two will be responsible for bringing the Bloody King of Hearts to his knees."
Chess's eyes glittered strangely as he said softly, "Do we understand one another?"
"Deal," Emma said quickly, earning a pointed stare from Regina. Regina, however, didn't verbally protest as Chess grinned maliciously saying, "Then let us be on our way."
"I heard something this way!"
Will and Alice were hiding behind a hedge, careful not to actually touch it. Soldiers were racing past as Alice counted under her breath. Will kept glancing back as he made sure no soldiers snuck up on them. The last soldier disappeared from sight, and Alice said, "Quickly! They're gone!"
Will raced ahead as Alice followed. They hurried through the maze, running as quick as they could. Will glanced around as Alice said, "Are we close?"
"Fairly close," Will said, "The Court Board will be up ahead."
Alice suddenly snatched as his hand and pulled him to a stop. He skidded, almost falling over as he did so. However, he didn't need to question Alice on it as she pulled him behind a statue that was place near a corner. Soon, soldiers came running about the corner as Alice began counting softly. They passed without suspicion as they disappeared in an opening they had past. Sighing, Alice said softly, "That was the last platoon."
"Good," Will said, "That should be the last of the pawns then."
The two walked out, Alice looking very forlorn. Will didn't notice as he said, "Come on, we should have smoother sailing now. Once we get to the Board, you'll be able to get home."
Alice made a face as she said softly, "If she'll even send me home…"
Will stopped, turning to look at her. He grasped her shoulder as he said, "Hey, what is that about?"
"What if she doesn't send me home?" Alice said, hurtfully, "What if she did this to trick us?"
"It's not a trick," Will said, "The Red Queen is obliged to send you home, you completed your end of the bargain. She would be… in great trouble if she didn't. Don't worry, Alice. You'll get back home soon."
Alice weakly smiled as Will took her hand and said, "Come on. Let's go."
"There you are, Will."
Will took the glass from the bartender lazily and raised it in cheers. The bartender took one of his own and raised his before taking a large gulp. Putting his glass down, the bartender sighed as he said, "Hope your day was slightly better than mine."
"If you call getting a free dinner and movie a better day than yours," Will said, spinning the glass in his hand. The bartender snorted only for a loud burst of laughter to come from down the bar. They both looked to see Stan amongst women, talking rather loudly and sloppily. Will turned his attention back towards his drink as he took another sip. The bartender gritted his teeth as he hissed, "The idiot's been in here all day. I swear if it wasn't for wanting to keep my head, I'd give him a good knock off his-!"
"Wait a minute," Will asked, sitting up a little bothered, "What do you mean, wanting to keep your head?"
"Didn't you hear?!"
Will looked back at Stan, to see he had parted from the giggling females. Will watched him approached, a look of arrogant smugness on his face. Will watched him with a blank expression as Stan said, pointing a finger at them, "Our prized boss has returned to us! Soon everyone in this town will fear and bow to him for mercy and we'll be able to do what we like!"
"Darren," Will felt numb as the bartender sneered at Stan. Stand paid no heed as he said, "Of course Darren! What did you take too many drinks, Will?"
"Excuse me, I need the Loo," Will said, almost seething. He went to brush past Stan, who grabbed him saying, "Oh no you don't! I know where you're going. You're off to warn Darren's girl that's he's back!"
Will tightened his jaw Stan leaned in, the whiskey smell coming off him heavily. He smirked as he said, "You're too late. Darren's already got her."
The bartender cleared his voice before slamming his drink down with some force. The bar atmosphere became tense as a couple of men in the corner stood up. Other people got up as well, hurrying towards doors of any sort. Stan snorted as he said, "What? Are you all afraid of one man?!"
But soon he was left alone, the two men plus Will advancing on him. Stan grew pale, moving away from them both as he stammered, "Listen now, you know what Darren will do to you-!"
"Oh we know," the bartender said, coming around the bar and was soon joining Will and the two men. Stan bumped into a table as he said, "Why do you care-she's just a little-!"
"Here's a piece of information for you Stan," the bartender said loudly, "Not one of us here actually likes watching kids get hurt."
Stan yelped as the two men slammed him down into the table as he yelped. Will grabbed him by the collar as he shouted, "WHERE IS SHE!?"
"Wake up."
Alison whimpered, aching in every muscle in every limb. She heard the soft command, not registering the different tone and voice. However, Alison had no interest in listening to the command. She could feel the ice flowing in her, chilling her as it crept towards her heart. If tears could fall, she was sure they would. However, she felt too tired to even muster that. Ignoring the voice, Alison felt herself falling back into blackness.
"Alice, wake up."
This time the voice was louder as Alison finally opened her eyes. She was leaning against the wall, the effects of Antics ice not allowing her to move. At first she didn't see anything. Then, as her vision began to clear she saw someone standing there in a dark cloak. Alison stared as the person walked closer to her. As the person did so, she spoke again, "I am ashamed, to think you've forgotten the most important lessons that I taught you."
"I must be still dreaming," Alison mused, her voice soft, "That voice doesn't exist anymore…"
The woman removed her hood, revealing a serious looking face with a crown upon her brown hair. She stared hardly at Alison as she said, "Why are you chained up, laying there like a fool?"
"A terrible dream," Alison muttered, "The voice of the dead is nagging me."
"Stop this! You have no time," Cora snapped, her eyes glittering strangely, "Why haven't you removed that chain!?"
"I've been poisoned with Antic's ice and the metal is laced with Pyry," Alison said blandly, her gaze indicating that she was quite not all there. Cora growled, angry at the sight before her. Taking a step, Cora said heatedly, "Are you telling me that the Mage of Wonderland, who stood proudly on the field with the Mage of the Cold cannot free herself from something so trivial? You flung her into the wall, how dare you forget the strength inside you!"
Alison narrowed her eyes a bit, a moment of sanity in her eyes. Swallowing, Alison murmured softly, "You don't seem to catch on as quick for a dream…"
"Alison," Cora said urgently, reaching down to touch her shoulder, "You must remember… Ice is not dead as dead is dead."
"Why should I even believe you?" Alison said, her voice slurring, "Dream or no dream… you'd like me to be dead as dead is dead…"
Cora breathed in; her eyes conflicted with emotions briefly. Reaching out to cup both cheeks, Cora leaned in and said, "If you don't believe me, believe what you see. How can a King do something the Mage cannot?"
Cora leaned in and kissed her briefly.
Alison gasped, her eyes opening up. She was alone, laying on the bed. She was in extreme amount of pain, just like the dream she remembered vividly. Groaning, Alison forced herself upwards. Her body shivered consistently as she struggled to remain awake. Was that dream really a dream? How could it not? Regina had been determined that she was dead. Shaking her head, she forced herself to sit up against the wall.
Regardless, it made a good point. Darren was from Wonderland, yet he had been handling Antic's pride and joy in torturing Wonderlanders without so much as a whimper. Closing her eyes, Alison closed her eyes.
She could feel the poison spreading through her body. It was flowing through her; it was enough to make her panic. She felt the panic fluctuate through her, almost like a warm pulse. Alison froze. Closing her eyes, she tried to summon that feeling again. It did not as Alison growled in frustration. It fluctuated again except it was more vibrant and Alison gasped. That was it.
"I'm going to die," Alison thought, shutting her eyes tight as she allowed herself to feel the pain. She whimpered as she felt the flow of Antic's ice go faster, only to be pushed by a hotter pulse that reached farther than her chest. "I am going to die, women are going to die. Regina, Emma, Snow, Red, Gretel, Grace are going to die if I can't push this out!"
It burned hotly, the sensation pushing the flow of ice away from her chest but it went no further. Biting her lip, Alison kept her eyes closed as she focused. This focus was different though, whether she realized it or not. It was not a focus to control magic or emotions. It wasn't to control at all…
She needed to lose control.
"What is wrong with you?! Kathryn and Belle are going to be tortured and killed if I let this kill me!"
It burned almost painfully as Antic's ice was pushed further away from her. But it still wasn't enough… but almost. In her focus of non focus, Alison felt a tug. It wasn't by her; it was her feeling magic getting closer. Someone powerful, someone she knew. It wasn't close but it was expanding, searching. Searching for her… Tears filled her eyes as a terror took hold in her.
"He'll die. And you'll have lost."
The heated magic exploded in an aura that burst in the whole room. Antic's ice evaporated like water as the chain around her ankle crumbled. The boxes in the room were knocked over, the computer exploding in an electrical burst. Alison gasped, a shriek coming out. She was frozen a moment, staring at her ankle. It held a nasty bruise; red almost bloody rings were around the outside. Tentatively, she put her foot to the floor.
Putting pressure on it, Alison winced but found the pain was bearable enough. Standing up, Alison hurried towards the stairs. A glint of red caught her eye as she looked towards the table. On it was the chest with Elizabeth's heart, making her pause. Glancing at the trap door, Alison hastily went and took the heart from the chest. Running back towards the stairs, she stuffed the heart deep into her inside sweater pocket. Reaching up, she pushed the trap door open.
It led to the outside forest, the leaves layered thickly on the ground. There was no other building near them, except a barn that laid on top. It was near a river, one that was flowing quite deeply now. Alison swayed, the pain coming back in pulses. The ice was gone, but the damage had been done. Alison had never been able to heal. As far as she could get was healing herbs, potions of sorts. She needed a hospital or a healer. Before Alison could even begin her escape, a neigh interrupted her rational thinking.
"Excalibur!" Alison ran into the barn, following the cries and the noises. She found him, tied into the stables in many different directions. Tears filled her eyes as she yanked open the stall door and began yanking on the different knots murmuring, "Keep still! I need to-!"
"YOU LITTLE BRAT!"
Alison screeched as she felt him yank forcefully on her hair, pulling her to him. Alison struck him at every possible angle as he had her by the back of her shirt and hair. Dragging her away, Darren sneered as Excalibur, now free of some of the ties, began kicked violently. Darren snarled as he said, "You just had to alert them! I'LL TEACH YOU NOT TO BE A DIRTY ROTTEN SNITCH!"
Alison tried to summon to magic, she certainly hated him enough for it. However, her current condition did not allow it. It was fluctuating badly as she felt him dragging her out of the barn, onto the leaf- covered grass until she heard the rushing water getting closer. Thrashing in his arms, she managed to hit him in a spot that made him let go briefly. Alison began to run, only to have Darren snatch her back as he hissed, "You'll pay for that! And after I'm finished with you I'll make the little half breed boy pay for it to!"
Before Alison could even scream, she felt him practically throw her into the water.
He hadn't let go, the water was rushing about her body. She thrashed as she tried to get back up only for Darren to keep his hold. Fear entered her, and if she could cry she would. Gasping under water, Alison felt the water seep in. She was not coming back up…
"LET HER GO!"
A large form crashed into him, throwing him into the water. Emma and Regina raced after as Chess sunk his teeth in Darren's shoulder throwing him back onto land. Darren coughed, snarling as he felt the wound on his shoulder. Regina looked around frantically saying, "Where is she?!"
"Still under the water!" Emma yelled as she jumped into the rushing river. Regina looked horrified as she yelled, "Emma!"
"Dumb cat!"
Regina whirled around as Darren had stood up, slightly hunched over from his wound. The cat purred, but not in a pleasant way. It made Regina shiver on the inside as Darren said, "She's as good as dead already! Just like your precious, lovely sister."
Chess lunged as Regina screamed at him to stop. But it was too late; Darren with all his might threw the knife into Chess. The cat howled in pain, the cat shifting back into human form. The knife dropped to the ground. Chess grabbed his side wound as Darren pulled a gun from his hidden jacket pocket.
"Fool." Darren sneered.
Regina flung out her hands and the gun exploded in his hand. Snarling, Darren turned towards her but she was prepared, swirling her hands about. Darren was then lost in a chaotic swirl of fire. It was not enough, for she could feel that his power made it swirl around him. She wasn't strong enough, but it didn't matter. Regina raced to Cheshire's side as she grabbed him saying, "Don't move!"
Regina disappeared with him as Darren made the flames vanished. His face was red with anger as he snarled. However, he didn't even get to move as the ground began to swallow up his feet. He felt the magic behind him, dark and brooding. Darren didn't have to turn around to know who it was as the man said coldly, "Don't bother, dearie. You're about to leave this earth soon."
Darren finally looked back as he saw Jefferson and Gold not standing too far away. Gold looked a malevolence that words could not describe. Jefferson glared at Darren, slightly out of breath and disorderly. Gold glanced towards the river and said lowly to Jefferson, "Find them."
Jefferson did so without another word. Soon Gold and Darren were alone. Darren laughed Gold and said, "Who knew the Dark One would be that little brat's Grandfather? So what? Are you going to kill me for everything I've done?"
"You have no idea," Gold growled.
"Well, you're a fool," Darren hissed, "If you think I'm so easily defeated!"
The air was hot with dark magic, Gold quickly guarding himself from the onslaught of power. Gold gritted his teeth, doing his very best to keep his shield up as he watched Darren's face become dark, almost inhuman. He laughed as he said, "Some protector you are! I bet you don't even know half the things I made your poor brat suffer. All because she was too frightened to tell her you were her granddaddy."
Gold snapped his fingers.
The air around them burst into flames, dark and smelling of rot. Gold grimaced as he kept up his invisible shield. He couldn't hear if Darren was screaming, in fact he didn't want to know. Soon the fire turned to smoke and the smoke turned to clear as he saw Darren keeled over on the ground. His side was burned, and he was panting roughly. Gold finally removed his shield as he said darkly, "It doesn't matter if she told me. All that matters is that you hurt my girl. And even the former King of Hearts should know better than to double cross me!"
Darren cackled as he looked up at the former Dark One with a sneer. Gold approached him as Darren said cruelly, "Your girl. That's rich… because everyone… from all those weaklings in the White Rabbit to the higher ups of Storybrooke… knew her as DARREN'S GIRL."
An ugly look came across Gold's face as flames formed in his hand. Darren showed no fear as Gold said, "And with that, you are going to wish you had never been born."
But something strange happened.
Darren screamed louder, even though Gold hadn't done what he wanted to do yet. Something strange was at work, something that made Gold jump away from him. Darren was in agony and soon Gold saw why. His hands were turning to dust as soon his arms, his body until nothing was left but a pile of ash. Darren's scream lingered in the air, echoing strangely. Gold stared down at where he had once been. A dark look took hold of his expression. What had just occurred? Had this devil over done it? He wasn't even aware that was possible… It was definitely death; Gold had seen it done before. However the last he checked only burning to ashes or crushing his heart would have been enough…
Making a face, Gold flicked his hand. The ashes burst into flame, the flame turning black and then disappearing. The ashes were no more as Gold sneered darkly, "For good measure."
"I see."
Gold turned to see a woman with long black hair. It fell about her face, in deep contrast with her pale skin. Her dress was simple and grey, trailing on the ground. He turned around fully as she said softly, "Nice to know you haven't changed…"
"Tzila," Gold said, tersely, "What are you doing here?"
Tzila stared at him with an empty expression as she said, "We need to talk."
"There it is!"
Will and Alice entered a large courtyard. It was very well kept, the fountains on the side pouring clear water. The benches seemed clean and well cared for as the tile floor of the court remained uncracked. The court was in a large square, much like a chessboard. On the other side of the chessboard where the queen would have stood, there was a tall mirror like the one Alice came through days ago. Will walked onto the chessboard relieved as he said, "Go through that mirror, Alice! That should bring you back where you came from."
"Well congratulations darling."
Alice stopped short, not too far behind Will. Will's relief disappeared as the Red Queen came out from behind the mirror, walking towards them. She was wearing a red gown that clung to her every curve. It was made of red lace and silk, the low v neck allowing her jewelry to be shown. Will made a face as the Red Queen addressed Alice again.
"I am impressed, you truly move like a Queen," the Red Queen said, her voice filled with a cold sweetness, "It so refreshing little creature, to meet such a valuable like you."
"Thank You," Alice said indifferently, "Now may I please go home?"
"Oh but darling, don't you see," The Red Queen said, her voice sounding slightly offended, "You are home."
"Emma!" Jefferson cried out, hurrying down the slope, "Alison!"
The river was rushing off to his left, as he ran through the trees. The shore line started up again further down the way, but that made his heart fill with dread. Alison had been under too long and if Emma didn't come up…
"Jefferson!"
Jefferson stopped short, looking behind him to see Charming come down the slope. Jefferson waited until Charming caught up with him before hurrying off. Charming followed him as he asked, "Did you find her?"
"We did but Darren threw her in the river," Jefferson said, "Emma went in, but she didn't come back out."
"OVER HERE!"
Grumpy's voice had come out loud and clear. Charming and Jefferson took off in a dash, running towards the sounds of his voice. Coming out of the trees and onto the river side, they saw the dwarves surround Emma who was coughing violently. Alison was being pulled to shore by Grumpy. She was limp as could be, alarming Jefferson greatly. He skidded short to where Grumpy put her down as he took her chin in his hand.
"Alison!" Jefferson shouted, his voice sounding quite mad, "ALICE!"
She remained unmoving as Jefferson pressed down into her chest. Charming had scooped down by Emma's side, who was still coughing terrible. Charming put his arm around her as he asked, "Emma, are you okay?!"
"Yeah-Something pushed us up," Emma coughed, "someone…"
Emma threw up then, making the Dwarves jump back. David, however, kept her hair out of her face as he looked terrified at Jefferson. Jefferson repeatedly pressed into her chest as he said, "Come on, BREATHE!"
Alison didn't.
Everyone watched as Jefferson continued, muttering to himself lividly. They could not understand what he was saying, everyone too sorrowful to tell him to stop. However some appeared behind him in a whirl of smoke and walked over to them. All who were not preoccupied gasped, leaving only Jefferson oblivious. The person walked over to Jefferson and said, "Hatter."
Jefferson nearly jumped out of his skin as Ryaden knelt down beside him. Pressing him to stop, Ryaden jerked his head slightly to move. Jumping back reluctantly, Jefferson watched as Ryaden observed Alison. Making a face, Ryaden murmured softly, "I'm sorry kid…"
Everyone watched as Ryaden traced the air inches above her. Extending his hand, Ryaden slammed his hand down, pushing his magic into her chest.
Everyone jumped as Alison violently coughed up water. Ryaden helped her move to her side, so she wouldn't choke again. Everyone sighed in relief, Ryaden scooping her up and said, "I'm taking her to the hospital. She needs to be healed."
Ryaden disappeared in a whirl of smoke, leaving the group alone. Jefferson was rigid as Charming helped Emma up saying, "We should get you to the hospital as well. Jefferson, can you go let Kathryn know Alison's at the hospital?"
Jefferson nodded, the look on his face quite not the Jefferson they knew. But Charming did not pay much heed as Emma still needed his help to walk. Gripping her tightly, Charming said, "It's alright it's over…."
Cora's lips quirked up in a smirk as she said, "Well. I wouldn't quite say that."
Waving her hand, Cora let the image disappear, standing in the room she normally occupied. Hook was sitting behind his desk looking cross as he said, "Was it really smart appearing before Alison now? The little spitfire might get suspicious… and the Crocodile will be suspicious with that stunt you pulled just now…"
"It was not a stunt," Cora said shortly, "Crushing hearts is an art… Rumple will be suspicious and that is all good. He needs to be, it'll put him on edge. As for Alice…"
"She needed a push," Cora said, after pausing few moments, "A reminder… Everyone else was taking too long… even though I must commend Miss. Swan and Regina for getting there first."
"You almost let Alison's power get absorbed."
"Are you upset Captain?" Cora said, looking at him incredulously, "I wasn't aware you and Alison were so… close."
"I hate her family," Hook said shortly, "They all… infuriate me. However, she saved me once. And letting some exiled knight steal her very essence is BAD FORM."
"He wouldn't have stolen her life force," Cora said shortly, "He needed a good quality life force to feed on. Her life force is far from good... the price of magic so to speak."
Cora walked over to his desk, resting both hands upon it. Staring at him coldly, Cora said threateningly, "If you get in my way, Captain, I will destroy you without a second thought. Do you understand me?"
Hook leaned forward and said with a devilish smirk, "Oh I promise I won't. As long as I get what I want, you can do what you'd like."
Cora smirk returned as she backed away slowly saying, "Then do what I asked of you."
"My home," Alice said frowning, "You know very well it's not here."
"Oh but it could be," The Red Queen simpered, "You see I've test many others before and each have failed to do what I wished. But you, you made it. A true Queen. What better one to take my place than one as brave as you?"
"I'm not…" Alice started her voice unsure.
"You would be my little princess," the Red Queen swooned, "Live a life of luxury…"
"Alice, don't listen to her," Will said harshly, "Go through the mirror before it's too late."
"Will I am being completely honest," The Red Queen said offended.
"Liar," Will said, as he approached her menacingly. The Red Queen didn't move to strike him, but the look on her face looked vulnerable. Her eyes were glassy as she stared at him intensely. Alice tilted her head in confusion. She watched in confusion as Will said, "You just don't want her to go through the mirror. Ruin her life like you do everyone else's!"
"Will, please, you have to believe me-!" Eracebeth started only for Will to snap, "Believe you? Did you not hear me? You are a liar. And I'll never trust you for it!"
Eracebeth made a face, looking wretched as Will said menacing, "Never again…"
Alice gaped, the connection finally clicking in her mind. Alice walked slowly, getting closer to the mirror as she still faced them. Alice looked at Will sadly as she said, "You knew her. That's why you knew the White Queen's castle, how to get through the garden…"
Will's eyes and Alice's eyes met as she said, "You were her lover."
"Was," The Red Queen said coldly.
Will gasped as he felt his throat being choked. Grasping at his throat, Will could not feel anything physical choking him. However he knew she was doing so. Alice gasped as The Red Queen snapped, "I will not have all my hard work undone by a thief and some brat! So what will it be Alice? Will you stay….?"
Will raised in the air, choking and sputtering as Alison pulled the cord from her sleeve and began swinging it around. The Queen was too busy glaring at Will to notice as she said, "Or will I kill him?"
"How about not!"
The Queen screeched as the cord whipped around her face and the rock luckily struck in two uncomfortable places: her nose and eye. The Queen doubled over as the crown fell from her head. It went falling to the tile, rolling slightly away. Will fell to the ground, but still choked. Alice raced to the Queen and pinned her to the ground. Shaking her, Alice screamed, "Take it off him! NOW!"
The Red Queen waved her free hand, the other clutching her bleeding nose. Will could breathe instantly as he coughed violently. Alice left her as she raced to his side and helped him sit up, asking, "Are you okay?"
"Yeah, I'm fine!" Will sputtered, getting to his feet woozily, "Let's get out of here!"
Alice began to help him, only to scream as something hit her hard in the back.
Will and Alice were sent flying to the ground. They rolled, skidded until they were in the middle of the board. Alice was out like a light, limp as could be. Will groaned before also falling unconscious as Eracebeth made it to her feet screaming, "You fools! You fools, no one is leaving here!"
"I beg to differ."
Eracebeth was thrown to the ground by a spell that sent her flying. However, Eracebeth recovered quickly, disappearing in a whirl of red smoke. The woman who had interfered puckered her lips as she said, "Well, how irritating. She didn't even lose with dignity."
Cora walked forward as her soldiers hurried over and carefully picked up Alice. One soldier glanced down at Will, fingering his sword hilt. Clearing his voice, the man asked, "What shall we do with him? Dispose of him?"
"Oh no," Cora said, walking towards them with a sweetness in her voice that must have been false, "I have something special for him in mind… take him."
"Rumple? I'm sorry I lef-!"
Belle stopped short as she entered the shop. Gold was leaning against the now unbroken display, his arms crossed. Tzila stood on the other side of him, calmly watching as Belle shut the door. She looked between Tzila and Gold nervously as Tzila said kindly, "Thank you for coming here. I know it's been a trying day for everyone."
"Tzila," Belle stammered, "I'm sorry, I didn't know you were here…"
"I needed to talk to you and Rumpelstiltskin," Tzila said, "I promise to make it as short as possible given the circumstances."
"Make what short?"
"As you both know," Tzila said, "You've both been chosen worthy of being titled as Mage."
"Yes, you were there went it happened," Belle said confused, "How is that new?"
"Give the circumstances then, it wasn't a good time to be discussing the new… roles you now must be expected to play," Tzila said, "In fact it seems now is not any better, but considering of what just happened… neither of you know how to truly use the magic, you must go through the training period."
"I'm sorry," Gold interrupted, "Training?"
"Training," Tzila said, "All Mages go through a certain form of it before they begin their duties. For you both, it's going to be more about being in sync with one another. After all, you both are bonded through your powers."
"And what if we refuse?" Gold asked edgily.
"You cannot," Tzila said bluntly, "All magic comes with a price and this one comes with much responsibility."
Gold made a brief flicker of a face but didn't respond. An uncomfortable silence fell about them, leaving them all to stare at one another. Belle then cleared her throat to break the silence, saying, "So where would we do this training? How long would it take?"
"At the Mages Manor," Tzila said, "And how long depends on you… but if I had to estimate it could take weeks."
"Weeks?!" Belle said stupefied, "But Alison-She just went through an awful blast from the past! And we can't ask her to leave everyone, she just got settled-!"
Tzila shifted slightly and Belle froze. Gold narrowed his eyes and said menacingly, "I am NOT leaving her behind."
"You wouldn't be leaving her behind," Tzila said, quietly, "You would be coming back. And you wouldn't be leaving right away. After the wedding period should be well enough…"
"But why don't you want her coming with us?" Belle asked sharply.
"Because your training will be difficult," Tzila said, "She has this nasty habit of helping where she shouldn't."
Gold glared at her and she said impatiently, "I know it is hard to think of right now with everything that just occurred. But think of it this way. You almost arrived TOO LATE to save Alison. You both are supposed to be getting full custody of this child, OF THIS MAGE. You need to be able to protect her or she's going to keep trying to protect you!"
Gold's expression didn't change, but he didn't look at her anymore. Belle nodded and said softly, "Alright… I understand. Where is Alison?"
"At the hospital," Tzila said, slowly, "Ryaden's been healing her since he dashed off from healing the March Hare and the White Rabbit."
Tzila swallowed as she said unhappily, "Which brings me to another thing…"
"Well, you've looked better."
Alison looked up as she saw Emma and Regina come in. Alison was sitting in the hospital bed, wrapped in scrubs and a thick white robe. Her hair was lank, as if it hadn't been properly brushed. Fiddling her hands, Alison watched them approach with a dead expression. Emma sat down on the bed as Regina remained standing at the end of the bed. Alison nodded softly as she said, "I imagine… Dr. Whale said he's keeping me overnight…."
"Didn't Ryaden heal you?"
"Whale doesn't trust magic," Alison said, her voice monotone, "He wants to be sure."
"Yes well, he also doesn't seem to want anyone to come in here either," Regina said, ruefully, "He didn't even want us to come in."
"It's a good thing though," Emma reasoned quickly, "I imagine you don't want many visitors right now."
"Not really," Alison said quietly, but asked with a tint of worry, "How's Chess?"
Regina walked around to the other side of the bed as she sat down saying, "He'll be back on his feet soon. He just needs sleep."
"Good," Alison said, the tint leaving her voice, "Did you get the box to him?"
"Yes, I did," Regina said sighing, "He was grateful..."
"It's strange," Emma said, "That even thought she's dead, her heart is still here."
"It doesn't matter," Alison uttered, emotionless, "She dead… their dead…"
Regina and Emma exchanged looks as Alison stared at the sheets on the bed. Both women nodded as they reached out to touch her hands. Flinching, Alison looked up as Emma said softly, "I'm sorry… I wish we could do something. But Ryaden said because they were so young and their immunity to it compare to the others-!"
"I know," Alison said, "I get it."
"Alison!"
Alison didn't even bother to look up as Kathryn rushed into the room. Tears were in her eyes as she looked at Alison. Regina and Emma let go of Alison's hands as they stood up saying, "We'll leave you two alone."
They left the room, Regina giving Kathryn an encouraging pat on the shoulder before leaving. Kathryn walked over to Alison and reaching out to hug her. Alison flinched, this time more severely as Kathryn froze. Immediately withdrawing her arms, she carefully sat down on the bed. She stared at Alison, who was back to looking at her hands. Kathryn swallowed and whispered, "Please say something…."
"There is nothing to say," Alison said flatly, "Nothing I can do."
There was a cold finalization to her tone. Kathryn knew it was about many things, but she knew of only one thing that Alison might be actually willing to talk about. Biting her bottom lip, Kathryn said, "I heard about Tweedle Dee and Dum… I am so sorry Alison…"
Swallowing, Alison felt her eyes burn with no tears as she said hollowly, "I'm sorry too."
"Autumn!"
Alison's eyes widened as the little boy rushed into the room. He scrambled onto the bed and Alison immediately embraced him. Stroking his hair, she let out a shaky sigh of relief as Dinah came into the room. Kathryn watched Alison as Danny stammered, "I thought, I thought he got you!"
"No Danny," Alison whispered into his hair, "I'm right here."
"I don't want to go home!"
Baelfire blinked in confusion, the young boy almost tearful. Tink was watching them surprised, standing not too far in front of the boy. They were at the shore of Neverland, the waves crashing into the sand. Everything in Bae's, Tink's, and even Neverland's being was saying this boy was ready to leave. However the boy was still persisting adamantly that he was to stay.
"But surely you don't want to play another game like that?" Tink reasoned, gently, "I'm sure your momma will be happy to have you safe in your bed."
"Mama will be mad at me!" Marcus wailed, "I need to be brave like the Hero!"
"The Hero?" Baelfire asked, "What Hero?"
Baelfire walked forward as Tink backed away a bit. Marcus swallowed nervously as he said, "The Hero is a warrior. She fought to save our country from a mean ruler, even though she loved the Lady dearly! My mama said the Hero was of a powerful grace that no one could match!"
Marcus slumped his shoulders and said sadly, "But Mama said I had to be brave… I can't go back till I am…"
Baelfire smiled kindly at Marcus as he said gently, "You know, the game is just for pretend. The boys wouldn't have been allowed to hurt you for real."
Tink opened her mouth to protest but Baelfire gave her a look. She shut her mouth as Bae looked back at the boy. He was watching with wide eyes as Baelfire said, "But any bravery here will just be for pretend, for play. If you want to be truly brave, go back to your family. Be good to them, be good for them. Protect them with your good heart, for that is where true bravery comes from."
Marcus smiled, and Tink smiled as well. Baelfire gently nudged him as he said, "Now go get a good dusting. Tink will take you back to your Momma."
Marcus nodded and walked over to Tink. She sprinkled green dust on him as she turned small. Musical sounds filled the air as Marcus began to fly. Baelfire smiled and said, "Hey Marcus. I think you would beat the Hero any day."
"No way," the boy laughed as he floated higher, "Everyone knows Alice always wins!"
Baelfire froze as the little boy flew up into the sky at lightning speed. Swallowing, Baelfire took a deep breath as he stared up at the sky a few moments. Wonderland…. That's where the boy was from. Not quite snapping out of his trance, Baelfire walked up the shore to the forest, where he walked along a familiar path. Loved the Lady dearly… he must have been talking about the Queen of Hearts. How close had those two gotten? He had never asked… all he remembered was the haunted look in his daughter's eyes.
Baelfire approached the tomb and stared at it longingly. His eyes were lonely, lonely for the woman that was lying inside it. Stepping as close as he could to it without touching, Baelfire whispered, "God, I wish you were here… I lost her, lost our baby because I was a fool. I lost you because I was a hotheaded idiot... I know it's wrong to blame others for my mistakes, but I wish fate hadn't taken you both…."
Baelfire finally reached out to touch the grave, only to flinch. It was cold, colder than ice. Hissing slightly, Baelfire watched it with narrowed eyes. It was still a warm season, it shouldn't be that cold. Stepping back, Baelfire found him walking around the tomb. He was about to turn around the third corner when he saw near the crack in the lid was a thin layer of ice. His stomach lurched. Grabbing the edge, he attempted to push the stone cover off but to no avail.
Stepping back, Baelfire held out his hand as he said, "Forgive me."
Snapping his fingers, the cover went flying off as it smashed into a tree. Baelfire felt a rush of cold air come from it. Staring at the tomb nervously, Baelfire walked over and peered inside. His mouth fell open as he saw his lover in the tomb with ice on her skin. It didn't completely cover her, but she looked as if someone had pulled her from ice. Reaching down, Baelfire rested his fingers on the side of her ice cold neck. At first there was nothing.
And then there was something: a pulse.
"Jane," Baelfire said horrified.
Temperance Tales: Yes I am aware that this has a feel of all the dead coming back to life. But I assure you this was the long goal plan with Darren. However, Dee and Dum I am sad to say are quite gone for real. Pyry is a terrible thing for a Wonderlander… and considering they were younger than the March Hare and White Rabbit, they couldn't last. It poisoned them. It saddens me greatly. I didn't want to, but alas this story is NOT one that will always be rainbow kisses and unicorn stickers. Terrible things happen, even in Fairytales. I do not own Once Upon A Time and I give full credit to its creators. Bizzarieve, thank you for all your help. I do not own any of the fairytales and give credit where credit is due.
