Chapter Sixty Three: Do Pronounce Thee.
"Now, just focus."
Alison stared at the rocking horse, the one she was supposed to be transforming into a dragon sculpture. Emma was levitating the candles, circling them in different directions. Emma glanced over at them, lowering the candles slowly as she did so. Regina didn't even look back at her as she snapped, "Keep your attention on your own work."
Emma scowled as Regina walked around Alison saying, "I want you to transform it. Will it to shift from what it is to what you want. I want to see if we can expel some of your magic, since lighting candles doesn't seem to do the trick."
"Why would it matter?" Emma asked puzzled.
"I want to see if my theory is correct," Regina scowled, "Now pay attention to your own work, Swan!"
Alison closed her eyes, formulating the picture in her mind. The magic summoned to her will, allowing it to accumulate. Shift it, shift it… Alison felt the magic pulse strongly, flowing through her as it warmed her to the bone. It was ready to burst but something was off. It was resisting, begging…
No…
"I can't do this!"
Regina winced as Alison threw down her arms. The leaves around her exploded upwards, shooting into the air before falling down graceful. Emma gasped, dropping the candles from the air. The ground caught on fire as Emma waved her hands frantically to make the fire dissipate. Regina gave an irritated growl before waving her hands in the air. The leaves floated away from her as Emma said, "Kid, I'm trying not to set the forest on fire. Could you please not do that?"
"I'm sorry, but I had to let it go!" Alison said edgily, "I can't just make it disappear once it's built up."
"You need to just let it flow. To do transformation is an art in it of itself," Regina said, staring as the girl waved her hands as the remaining leaves fell in a swift drop. Alison made a face as she said, "I know that, but every time I try to let it flow, it keeps refusing!"
"Refusing?" Regina and Emma exchanged expressions looking at her dubiously. Alison looked even more annoyed as Emma said, "It's okay kid, I mean there are going to be some things that you can't do right away-."
"It's not that," Alison said frustrated, "I'm telling you, I know when my magic is telling me I can't do something and this doesn't feel right."
Emma looked at Regina concerned, while Regina looked thoughtful. Walking over to Alison, Regina reached out her hands and asked, "May I see your hands please? There is something I need to check."
Alison reached out her hands, allowing Regina to take them. Regina took a deep breath in as Alison felt her hands grow warm. Alison looked down, seeing the purple magic running around her hands. They almost looked like veins as the glittered in the light. Alison, Emma and even Henry from the spot on the hill watched in awe. The purple magic turned to gold and turned to blue. The air grew warm as the wind began to blow. Alison's eyes focused out slightly, feeling her consciousness slip away. Her eyes became unfocused, the lull too strong to resist. Alison couldn't tell what it was, couldn't tell that Regina had let go of her hands. Regina backed away, her eyes wide as Henry looked around. He gasped as the leaves rose into the air. Emma looked around as the leaves changed colors: red to orange to yellow to green. Henry stood up, looking up as the leaves seem to reattach to the trees.
Regina looked as the wind began to suck back towards Alison gently. Alison breathed in and exhaled just as deep. She stumbled, as if the support in her knees gave out. Emma and Regina jerked forward to grab her but Alison waved them away saying, "I'm fine… just slipped off is all."
"What was that?" Emma said in amazement, looked at the now regenerated trees.
"I have… some idea," Regina said with a sigh, "But Alison is right… She can't do this."
Alison made a face, as Emma sighed heavily saying, "So this was all for nothing…"
"No!" Regina glared at Emma, cross her arms, "It isn't all for nothing."
Alison looked at her, her face showing exasperation. Regina reached over and put her hand on Alison's shoulder. Alison looked up at her as Regina said, "It just means that I will have to do a little research… Give me time and we'll be back on track in no time. Alright?"
Alison bit her lip but nodded as Regina allowed her hand to slip off her shoulder. Regina backed off as she said, "Besides, I'm sure you'll want to spend time with Belle and Gold."
"Ha, they are not together today," Alison said, wrinkling her nose, "Which is a relief because they've been extremely mushy as of late."
"Newly weds," Emma said with a grin as Henry descended the slope. Alison glanced at Emma as she said, "Gold said he wouldn't be available till later and Ruby and Belle are having a girl's day."
"That's okay," Henry said happily, "That means we get to hang!"
"Well," Emma said smiling, "In that case, why don't we head to Granny's for some brunch? Mary Margaret and David will be meeting us there. Regina would you like to join us? "
"No," Regina said quickly, "No, I have some things to attend to. Besides, I'd rather not hear anymore about a wedding I'm not going to."
"You're not going?"
Regina's and Alison's eyes met as Alison looked curious. Regina rolled her eyes as she said, "No, I was not invited. Which is fine, because I don't feel like watching that imp kiss up to his bride."
Emma snorted but Alison looked a little bugged. But she seemed to let it go as Emma led her away saying, "Come on kids. I don't know about you, but I'm hungry."
"You wanted to see me?"
Gold looked up from his work as he saw Kathryn walking into the shop. Her hair was down, her winter coat wrapped tightly around her. She gently kicked the tip of her boots against the door mat before walking closer to him. He put down his pen as he said, "Ah, yes. There is something I'd like to discuss with you."
Gold turned and picked up two folders off the side table. He stared at them a moment, a look of melancholy in his eyes. Kathryn never saw it however, as he turned back to her with a blank look on his face. Kathryn stopped at the front desk as Gold said, "You know today is the day that custody is changed. I would have liked you to look over the documents for me, to ease any uneasiness you have about giving up the rights."
"Gold, that is really not-," Kathryn started only for Gold to wave his hand. He made a face before looking at her blankly once more. He rested the folders on the front desk as he said, "I know that I have done much in my life time. Just in one decade, it would be enough for me to never be trusted ever again. So please..."
Gold indicated towards the files before folding his arms across himself. Kathryn took the files and looked them over. The first file seemed as it should have been, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. However, the second file made her gasp. Kathryn looked up at him in shock as Gold scoffed ever so softly. He then said, his voice sound like the business man he was, "It seems she is distressed that she is going to hurt us both… as if she's being forced to choose between the two of us. That you'd be tossed to the side."
"No!" Kathryn sounded hurt as she shook her head saying, "That's not the truth. Gold, you don't have to do this."
"I do," Gold said, "I love her too much to make her feel that she's going to lose one or the other. I also don't want to force her to be somewhere she doesn't want to be…"
Kathryn looked at him with a compassionate stare as he stared down at the files momentarily, "I will present her with the option to live with me or you. Either way, she will know that she has both no matter what."
Kathryn looked at Gold as he looked at her saying, "As long as you're alright with this, no matter which she chooses."
Kathryn nodded sincerely, watching him as he said, "Are you sure you are okay with this?"
"This isn't about what I want, but what she needs. And I will always be here to protect her," Gold said, "And with your okay with all this, I will let you get back to your own wedding preparations."
Kathryn smiled as she turned and walked away from him. Kathryn made it over to the door, pausing a moment. Gold had looked down at his inventory list, flipping the page. He only looked up when Kathryn said her next words.
"If it makes you feel better, I don't have doubts."
Gold looked up to see her standing there. Her hand was on the door knob as she said, "I know you would do the right thing for her. And this proved me right."
Gold smiled a bit, as she smiled back. Kathryn nodded at him before she left the shop. His smile vanished as his business-like stare came back on his face. Turning, he pulled open the painting, revealing the safe in the wall. Gold pressed his thumb against the lock as it glowed softly. Gold then opened the safe, revealing a large item inside. Pulling it out, he rested a wooden box on the front desk and ran his hand over the carved top.
The box glimmered before he heard a click. Opening it, Gold stared down as he saw the contents of the box. There were pictures, a few trinkets of his inside. Gold picked up one picture that had caught his eye. It was a little girl, holding a golden apple in her hands. Gold smiled briefly as he noticed the bright colors that accentuated her innocence. He had forgotten he had swiped this. Tucking the picture away in his inner coat pocket, Gold turned his attention towards the other large item in the box. Gold picked it up by the hand, staring at it intently.
The dark one's dagger shone in the light, causing a dark look to come to his eyes.
"Belle, everything looks wonderful!"
Belle smiled a little halfheartedly at the voice.
She was standing in a ball room, glowing in the daylight shining in through the multitude of windows. Along the sides of the room were tables decorated in simple white table clothes. Golden roses centered each table, sitting in delicate vases of glass. Belle stared in the direction of the door, the entry way covered in silk and golden ties. Red walked closer to Belle grinning. They stopped a few feet in front of Belle as she said, "Well, I had help from you!"
"Still, you got a lot done while I was gone to get food," Red said, shifting the brown bag from hand to hand. Belle giggled as she said, "Come on, let us go eat in the lounge out front. Then we come back in and finish up!"
Belle and Red left side by side as Red started saying, "So, I've talked with Mary Margaret! Piper and David are going to keep the kids at the apartment, keeping Alison till Gold's done. She connived Emma into coming with Mary Margaret. Everyone will be at the restaurant at seven!"
"Good," Belle said, her voice a little sad as they sat down at a table in the lounge. Red noticed her friend's tone as Red handed Belle her container of food. Once Red had let go of the container, she grabbed Belle's arm saying, "Hey! What's up with you?"
"Gold is offering Alison a choice," Belle said sadly.
Red stared at her silently. The only noises around them were the workers going about their duties in the other rooms. Red tilted her head as she asked in confusion, "I'm sorry… A choice?"
"Yes," Belle said, "Whether to be adopted by us or adopted by Kathryn."
Red's mouth dropped as Belle looked down in disappointment. Red closed her mouth, shifting in the padded seat. Red squeezed her arm as she said, "Belle, don't worry about it. Alison loves you both-!"
"Yes," Belle said, her heart obviously quite broken, "And I love her dearly. But she loves Kathryn more… that's something that will never change."
Belle broke away, tears apparent in her eyes. Red opened her mouth only for Belle to run from the room saying, "Excuse me!"
Red watched her friend disappear, sad as could be. Leaning back, Red pulled out her phone as she pressed a few numbers. Pressing it to her ear, she waited until she heard a voice on the other end.
"Hey, it's me," Red said, "Do you still have that tape we were watching the other day…?"
"Well, well, well."
Regina gasped as she was thrown up against the door she had closed. She slammed into it, gritting her teeth as she felt incredible pressure pushing her into the door. She was in an office, one that belonged to the new head of the paper. The Head of the Paper smiled, leaning against the desk as she swirled her hand around. Regina grimaced as she heard the woman behind her say, "I think you have a lot of nerve coming here, Regina."
"Maleficent," Regina said, choking on her words slightly, "How are you?"
"Better, no thanks to you," Maleficent said, "Or the Savior…"
"I-I came to make pea-!"
"Peace?" Maleficent laughed as she said, "What could you possibly offer me to make peace?"
"An-," Regina choked as she said, "An elemental user-!"
Maleficent looked surprised as she frowned deeply. Waving her hand, Regina fell to the floor as she sputtered and coughed. Maleficent made no move to help her up, but Maleficent did say, "An elemental user? Are you sure?"
"Positive," Regina said getting up and straightening out her coat, "I know, I've been training her… well trying to."
Maleficent looked amused as she uncrossed her arms saying, "Do go on."
Maleficent moved around her desk as Regina massaged her shoulder. Walking cautiously over to the desk, she sat in the chair opposite Maleficent. Pushing back her hair, Regina said, "I've been trying to teach her magic spells…. However we've gotten up to transformation and she tells me that 'the magic tells her no…' or at least that's what she implies."
"Sounds like an elemental user," Maleficent said smoothly, "A good one from what you describe."
"What does that mean?" Regina said, "Magic is magic, shouldn't it-?"
"No!" Maleficent interrupted harshly, "Elemental magic is bound by rules, bound by nature. Spells that going against nature, such as transforming and healing are beyond our capabilities."
"Healing?" Regina questioned.
"Healing goes against nature, it is an art that stops the very cycle of life," Maleficent said smoothly, "Sure, we can use potions and healing balms but nothing that breaks the Nature of Equivalent Exchange."
"Equivalent Exchange?"
"You can't make gold into copper, turn blood to water," Maleficent said, "Things like that."
"So can you help me?" Regina said, "I have no idea how to train someone in that way."
"Of course," Maleficent said smoothly, "Most witches, wizards, sorcerers, and sorceresses use magic like you and Rumpelstiltskin do. However, I am one of the very few in the realms that know where to find any information on it."
Maleficent waved her hand as a book appeared on the desk.
"This," Maleficent said elegantly, "Is the book in which she should be learning from."
Regina reached forward but Maleficent held up her hand. Regina stopped as she watched Maleficent leaned forward as she said, "But first… I want the child's name."
Regina made a small face as she said warningly, "I don't know exactly what you have planned. All I know is that you've been searching for an elemental user for whatever purpose. However, I refused to give her name until I am assured that she will remain in good health."
"A promise I'll gladly give," Maleficent said with a light laugh, "Unlike some, I don't need to bring harm to people to get what I want."
Her words had a small stab of threat to them, as if she was attempting to make a point. Regina acted as if it didn't faze her in the slightest as she said, "Her name is Autumn Doe. Satisfied?"
"Much," Maleficent said, "Good luck with your student."
Regina picked up the book and turned to leave the office. Maleficent cleared her voice as she said, "Regina."
Regina looked back, her free hand on the door knob. Maleficent looked towards Regina coyly as she said, "I'd be careful. I hear in the bushes that a war is coming. I'd hate for you to be the first victim, old friend."
"So wait. You and Grandma actually got married during the war?"
Charming smiled as he looked at the Twins, Henry and Alison were sitting in the living room. Each of them had cups in their hands, sitting on the couch or pillows on the floor. Alison was stretched out, her head resting against Ava's knees. Ava was propped up against the couch that Nicholas and Henry were sitting upon. Charming was sitting on the other side of the living room table as he said, "Yes, it was a brief ceremony done by Sir Lancelot."
"Lancelot," Ava repeated, "Like Knight of the Round Table Lancelot?"
"The very same?"
"Didn't he get exiled for kissing up to Queen Guinevere?" Alison asked, staring at Charming before taking a sip of her drink. Charming snorted as he said, exasperated, "It's not known why he was disgraced... However, he is a good friend of Snow and I. He helped us defeat King George."
"Alright! Pizza's here!"
Alison peeked up from her seat, seeing Piper come in with three boxes of pizza. Grace followed him as Piper said, "And I met this one and her father at the pizzeria!"
"Good! I was hungry!" Nicholas said, jumping off the couch as Piper put the pizza's on the counter. Ava rolled her eyes a bit as she gently pushed Alison to get up. Getting up, Alison watched as Ava passed in front of her to get pizza. She watched Grace carefully as Henry came beside her. Charming left the two to their own devices as Alison asked Henry lowly, "Did you tell her?"
"No…," Henry said slowly, "But we should."
"I know," Alison said slowly, "But don't."
"Why?!" Henry asked in a hiss.
"Because there is something I want to see," Alison said, looking at Henry seriously, "And if you tell her, it could make things a lot worse if I don't make sure."
Henry bit his lip and Alison pleaded softly, "I promise not to let it go on too long."
Henry stared at her a minute, disapprovingly. However he nodded and Alison smiled briefly at him. Charming, who was putting slices of pizza on the plates, looked towards them and said, "Are you coming? Gold said to make sure you ate before he came to pick you up."
"Yes, we're coming," Alison said, getting to her feet, "As soon as this slowpoke catches up!"
"Hey!"
Piper grinned as Alison and Henry came over, letting them take their plates of pizza. Charming then leaned over to Piper as he said softly, "Piper, about the other day-."
"Don't worry about it," Piper said simply, "As far as I'm concerned, we settled our differences."
Charming smiled, scoffing slightly. Piper then took his pizza and went around the counter saying, "Alright! Who's up for watching a movie in the living room?"
"Sure!"
"Alison, can you wait a minute?" David said quickly. Alison paused, but nodded politely. The other went into the living room, piling up on the couches and floor. Alison put her plate back down on the counter as David walked over to a paper holder on the kitchen counter.
"Gold asked me to give these to you," David said, turning around with two files in his hand. Alison reached out to take them, asking, "What are they?"
"Documents," David said gently, "Regarding the adoption."
Alison frowned a moment before opening both of the files. As she read, Alison's mouth fell open in stupor. David smiled weakly as Alison asked, sharply, "What is this?"
"Gold thought you might be feeling upset about the custody arrangement," David said, "So he had two orders drawn up, one where he and Belle get custody and the other that Kathryn gets custody."
Alison's expression looked stunned and held a tint of uneasiness. David watched her kindly as he said, "Either way, both of them want you to know it doesn't matter which you choose. Both of them will be there for you, whether Kathryn ends up your super protective Aunt or the future Gold's remain your ever so odd loving grandparents."
Alison snorted at that, a smile replacing the uneasiness. David couldn't help but chuckled as well, bowing his head a moment. Alison smiled, shaking her head slightly as she said, "He's really leaving this up to me?"
"Yes," David said, "He wanted you to be able to choose so you wouldn't be left out of the equation. Even if it isn't him."
Alison smiled truly, as she turned a page. Tilting her head in curiosity, Alison asked, "Why is there no name? For where mine is supposed to be?"
"He said to sign your name on the one you want, and I'll submit it to the judge once Mary Margaret gets back tonight," David said, handing her a pen. Taking his plate, David walked to the living room as he said, "I let you think about it."
Alison looked down at the two folders, leaving them both open to the proper pages. Her smile turned to a grin as she wrote on the blank line.
"Well then," Alison said, take a quick bite of her pizza, "And that's that."
"Congratulations!"
Belle smiled warmly as she watched Granny walked over to her. Belle, as well as everyone else, was sitting at a table in a lounge, the fire casting a golden glow inside. Belle put down her glass as she went to stand up. Belle reached out and embraced Granny saying, "Thank you! Even though, I think that should be said after the wedding tomorrow."
"Still," Granny said, "Making it this far with him is an accomplishment. Make sure to put him in his place, won't you?"
Belle laughed, hearing the joking in Granny's voice. Granny hugged her tight before saying, "Do try to enjoy your honeymoon."
"You'll make sure Alison eats?" Belle asked, her voice a little concerned, "And gets to schoo-!"
"Don't worry," Granny said, sincerely, "Both I and the Charming's and Kathryn will make sure she gets to school."
"Belle!"
Belle looked up to see Emma walking into the room, dressed in a black leather dress. Emma was holding a black velvet box in her hand, holding out her arms. Granny moved back to her seat as Emma said, "Sorry, I'm late! I just had to wrap some things up at the office."
"That's alright," Belle said kindly, "What's this?"
"Something from Alison," Emma said, "She said to consider it something borrowed."
Belle took the box and opened it. She gasped, almost dropping the box. Shutting it, Belle said, her eyes wide, "I can't accept this-!"
"As she said," Emma said, smiling, "Something borrowed."
Belle laughed, half in shock and weak humor. Looking at Emma while shaking her head a bit, Belle said, "But where did she-how-?"
"She didn't say," Emma said with a shrug, "She said you could give them back once the wedding party is over or after the honeymoon. She's not too fussy about when."
"Can we have your attention please?!"
Belle and Emma looked to the other side of the table as they saw Mary Margaret and Red stand up. Red raised her glass as she said, "Thank you, everyone, for making the Bachelorette party! Before we let you go get food, we'd like to say a few words."
Everyone quieted as Belle and Emma sat down. Red smiled warmly at Belle as she said, "We would like to congratulate you on your engagement and your soon to be marriage!"
"We also would like to thank you for all the help you have contributed to making this town happy and safe once again!" Mary Margaret said, kindly, "We couldn't ask for a better Mage."
"Even got the great Rumpelstiltskin to come down a few notches," Granny joked, allowing a couple of women in the room. Belle smiled as she said, "Thank you all very much! But my loves change has very little to do with me."
"Regardless," Emma interrupted as she lifted up her own glass, "Cheers! For a wonderful lifetime!"
"Cheers!" Mary Margaret said, as everyone raised their glasses and repeated their word. Belle took a sip of her champagne as Emma said, taking her hand, "Come on. We have one more thing for you."
"Really, Emma, you-!"
Emma wasn't hearing it as she pulled on Belle to stand up. Emma went to led her to out of the room, Belle trailing behind. Belle looked to see she had brought her to a sitting room; one with a TV sitting in front of the chairs. Belle blinked in confusion as Emma walked over to the couch saying, "I heard you were worried about the new turn in the custody event."
"Emma," Belle said exasperated, "It's really not-!"
"It is," Emma said, sitting down on the couch, "It bugs you that she doesn't connect with you as well as Kathryn. So, we found something to help alleviate your concern."
Belle opened her mouth as Emma clicked the remote. Belle looked towards the TV as she saw it turn on. She sat down next to Emma as the TV showed a blue screen. Finally, a picture began to show a little girl sitting on a porch.
"Look," the little girl giggled, pointing out, "Look, its Excalibur!"
The camera view switched to show a black horse walking along in the distance with a man walking next to him. Her giggles could still be heard as August's voice sounded out, "And he's not riding him. What's the point in having a horse if you don't ride him?"
"Daddy-Daddy rides him once in a while," Alison protested as the camera focused back on her. Her hair was down and messy, as if she had just been rolling around. Her blue eyes were staring at him indignantly as she said, "But Excalibur doesn't like it!"
"Doesn't like what?"
"Like people on his back!" Alison said, her little voice carrying as Belle couldn't help but smile a bit. Emma smiled at her knowingly as they watched little Alison hold her book. It was the very book that made both Emma and Belle look sad a moment. August's voice interrupted the moment as he said, "So what are you reading, Lizzie?"
"What?" Alison looked up at him in confusion as August repeated, "What story are you reading?"
"Oh." A sheepish grin came over the little girls face as she said kicking her dangling legs, "Beauty and the Beast."
"Ooh," August said amused, "Of course, why do I bother asking?"
"Yes," Alison said, her little voice now sounding teasing and stubborn, "Why do you ask, Uncle August? You should know better by now."
August's recorded laugh mingled with Emma's and Belle's. Belle watched the screen with a smile as August said, "Well, I am sorry Lizzie. I just don't understand why you like it so much, it has a sad ending."
Belle's smile faded as Alison said, seriously, "Well that's not my fault! Daddy wrote the book. If I wrote the book, it would end differently!"
"Oh really," August asked, "How would it end if you were writing the story?"
"Belle would have scolded him!" Alison said, "She would have said, "You are being ridiculous! It is time for you to take a nap and I don't want to see you until you are being nice! And I'm not leaving!"
The laughter ran around the room as Alison said, "And Rumpelstiltskin would realize that she was telling the truth and she'd make him say sorry and they would live happily ever after!"
Alison's shoulder slunk a bit as she said, sadly, "But if it was written that way, I guess it wouldn't be true…"
"Sadly, no," August said.
"It's sad cause I wanted to meet her," Alison said, her voice pitching slightly.
"Oh really? How come?"
"Cause she would read me stories like Daddy would and she would have a library and I could read more books!" Alison said, her voice excited and quick, "And she'd be Auntie Belle."
"Auntie?" August said, his voice sounding amused, "Wouldn't she be Grandma?"
"Well yeah," Alison said, her voice slowing, "But I don't think she'd like that. She's old but not that old, and she's pretty and she's smart-."
"Are you saying older people aren't smart?"
"Well," Alison said, making a face, "Look at Papa, he's old and he's not smart. Otherwise he would have kept Belle and not turned the butcher in a piggy and all the other bad stuff he does!"
Belle was hiding her hands in her face, trying to stop her laughter. Mary Margaret and Red watched from the doorway as Emma smiled softly. Alison closed the book as she said, "But I'll need Papa now. He's the only one with the other stories about her."
"Oh? Won't Daddy tell you stories?"
"Daddy's mirror only knows so much," Alison said, sighing, but the perked up saying, "So that's why we need to go to Storybrooke!"
Belle's mouth dropped slightly as August said, "Oh, one day. When you are older."
"Yup, when I'm eight!" Alison decided, kicking her legs in unison.
"Ha! More like when you are eleven, maybe twelve," August said as Alison put the book down and said, "No, when I'm eight. I will be in Storybrooke when I am eight! Then Papa will tell me all about Belle."
Alison stared, somewhere where the camera couldn't show. Her eyes grew excited as Alison shrieked, "DADDY!"
The tape ended as Belle wiped her eyes. Red smiled as she said, "August found it in some of his stuff. We'd thought you would like to see it."
"She was an adorably chatty child," Mary Margaret said cheerfully.
"Indeed," Belle said, her voice soft and tender. Red smiled as Belle stood and Red said, "Come on. The dinner should be out."
Belle followed her, leaving Mary Margaret to follow. Mary Margaret stopped however, realizing that Emma didn't follow her. Mary Margaret looked over at Emma and asked, "Emma? Are you okay?"
"Yeah." Emma shook her head as she said, "I was just thinking…. It's almost creepy."
"What?" Mary Margaret asked. Emma stood up and walked over to her saying, "Remember what she said. That she would be in Storybrooke when she was eight."
"Yeah? So?"
"Felicity Doe brought her here when she was eight years old," Emma said, "A bit spooky, isn't it?"
"An odd coincidence," Mary Margaret said, but she shook her head and held out her arm, "Shall we go eat dinner?"
"Yes," Emma said with a smile, "We shall!"
"And you are not going to give me a little hint?"
Alison grinned, hearing Gold's questioning tone. They were in his bedroom, both of them dressed for bed. Alison was sitting next to Gold as he clicked buttons on the remote. The TV across the room turned on as Alison shook her head as she said, "Nope, you can wait until morning."
Gold scoffed as Alison looked at the TV screen, waiting for the movie to turn on. The previews showed cartoons as Alison tilted her head curiously, asking, "What movie are we watching?"
"You can wait five minutes," Gold said mockingly, looking over at her. She stuck her tongue out at him as he pinched her nose as he said, "Not nice, little one. And I even have a gift for you under the bed."
Alison looked at him suspiciously as he waved his hand for her to move. Alison got up as she slid off the bed and went underneath. She found a wooden box, large in size. Pulling it out, she saw that it was almost half her size. Lifting up the cover, she let her jaw drop open.
Inside was her Father's violin, laid neatly in the velvet.
It had been neatly polished, strings replaced. Even though it was clearly older, whoever cleaned it must have taken beyond great care of it. Alison held it gingerly as she looked up questioningly at him. Gold smiled softly as he said, "I figured it was about time I had given it to you."
Alison put it back down, setting it back gingerly. Everything she needed for the violin was in the case, including a pouch for music. Alison shut the case, sliding it back under the bed as Gold said, "Consider it my apology for not being able to attend the concert."
"That's alright," Alison said, "There will be more…"
Alison climbed back on the bed as she looked at Gold concerned. He sighed softly, knowing her expression all too well. He pressed pause on the remote as Alison asked, "Why would you give that to me?"
"Why not? You used it enough," Gold said as Alison quickly responded, "But it's his violin-!"
"And now, it's yours," Gold said, "I think it's time to move forward after all."
If her concern wasn't obvious before, it was now. Gold sat up as Alison said softly, "Are you sure-!"
"Alison Marie Kinsleigh, I am sure." Gold said sighing.
Alison was quiet as Gold said, "I love your father dearly, and that's never going to change. But he's not coming back here, sweetheart. We have to accept that."
"That's weird coming from you though," Alison said, staring at him intently, "And concerning."
"And it shouldn't be," Gold said, "You and Belle are my family. If it wasn't for you both, I would be far worse off."
Gold leaned forward, gently grasping her shoulder. He kissed the top of her head as he said, "Fair enough?"
Alison smiled a bit before nodded ever so slightly. Gold smiled as he said, "Now come on, at this rate we'll fall asleep during the movie. And believe me; you won't want to miss it."
Alison made her way under the covers, as did Gold. Alison snuggled up to Gold as he wrapped his arm around her. His fleece pajamas were soft and dark blue, and Alison couldn't help but breathe in the cologne he often wore. Alison rested against him, staring as he let the movie play. A blank screen remained until the music played and the title of the movie showed.
"I hate you," Alison said sourly.
"What's the matter, dearie?" Gold said amused, his laughter creeping into his voice, "Do you not like my movie choice?"
"When it involves a cartoon betrayal of me, no," Alison said, "Not at all."
"Makes me glad there has yet to be a movie about me yet," Gold said smoothly.
"There is if you technically think about it," Alison said with a grin, "After all, who's the Beast in Beauty and the Beast?"
"I'd take being a strong and handsome prince over a little blonde haired girl who wasn't listening to her teacher," Gold teased.
"You were also the Green Crocodile that swallowed a clock," Alison shot back.
"And yet, still sounds better that being a clumsy little girl," Gold said, amused. Alison rolled her eyes as she said, "I don't know why it wouldn't…"
"Hey," Gold said, his voice suddenly serious, "What is that about?"
"Nothing," Alison said swiftly only to giggle as Gold tickled her side. Alison squirmed against him as he tickled her saying, "Tell me."
"No! Forget-!" Alison shrieked as she laughed into his nightshirt loudly. Gold shook his head and said, "Not happening, now tell me."
Alison calmed down, taking deep breathes before letting out a small sigh. Settling back against him, she looked up at him bitterly and said, "It's my least favorite story."
"What?"
"My least favorite story," Alison said, sourly, "Is my own."
Gold looked a little surprised as Alison muttered, "It's not like it ever ends happily ever after."
Alison rested against his chest, hearing his heart beat. Gold let off a small sighed as he squeezed her saying, "Well… we'll just have to work on that, now won't we."
"Cheers, to Mr. and Mrs. Gold!"
There were cheers around the room, making Belle smiled warmly.
She and Gold were standing arm in arm as Charming made the toast. While it wasn't as big as other weddings were, there were enough people looking at her to make her blush. She was dressed in a white, like most brides were. Her gown was v-necked, the bodice a corset laced up neatly in the back. The designs upon it were roses and swirls, not too obvious to be gaudy. The skirt elegantly floated away in ball line fashion, the silk material folding over nicely. The sleeves were long, having ever so tiny golden roses circling the wrists with diamonds in the middle. Her hair was up in a pony tail, the hair in one large curl. She wasn't wearing a veil, however around her neck was a beautiful aquamarine gems encased in gold. Each strip came down longer than the one before it until it came to the middle. The one in the middle had a large gem of the same color, surround by thicker gold setting.
Gold took a sip of his champagne before looking at her. He smiled coyly and whispered in her ear, "You look stunning."
Belle smiled, her cheeks turning a darker shade of pin as she said, "Well, you look quite handsome yourself."
He leaned in, kissing her lips lightly as he said, "Are you ready for some mingling?"
"Are you?" Belle teased as Gold shrugged slightly, "As long as we don't have to thank every person in this room. Just the important ones."
Belle giggled as Red and August approached them with smiles on their faces. Gold put on his business smile as he said, "Well, I must say, you and my wife did an excellent job setting up in here."
"Well thank you," Red said, "Believe me, it was my pleasure."
"So where are you two off to?" August asked, keeping his tone light and airy.
"Originally, we were going to stay at my cabin in the woods," Gold said, "However, the Mages have offered us rooms at the Manor to enjoy our honeymoon."
"And then it's right to work?"
"Obviously," Gold said, his tone calm, "I would ask if you could keep our little one out of trouble, but you don't exactly have the best track record for making her do as she's told."
"Not really, no," August said, grinning as Red giggled lightly. August glanced over at Alison, who was sitting at a table across the room, before looking back at Gold saying, "So did you hear back from the judge on who has custody?"
"August!" Red scolded as Gold chuckled. Belle looked at Gold with a questioning expression, indicating her cluelessness. Gold smiled sincerely as he said, "Well of course. It seems the little one has chosen to stay with us."
Belle's mouth fell open, before she smiled in relief and joy as her husband looked down at her. Gold kissed her forehead in reassurance as he said, "As she put it to me this morning, this way Katherine gets to spoil her more without the burden of raising her."
"Ha!" August said, "As if she needs to be spoiled."
"Well it seems congratulations are in order."
All four froze as they turned to see Tzila. She was wearing a dark dress with stars embroidered at the bottom. Her hair was pinned back out of her face as she approached with a smile on her face. August and Red took this as sign to retreat back to their table as she approached. Tzila smiled at Belle as she said, "I do not mean to intrude, however I wished to express my good will."
"And we welcome it," Belle said kindly, "Where is Ryaden?"
"Ryaden has business to attend to," Tzila said, "He sends his regards and his good wishes."
"And we accept them," Gold said smoothly, "I'm afraid we have already eaten dinner-."
"Oh no," Tzila said, waving her hand, "I won't be staying; I have things to attend to as well. Besides, this is an event for family and friends. Don't feel obliged to worry for me. I thank you for your courtesy."
Tzila looked down at Belle's neck and she smiled. Tzila looked Belle in the eyes as she said, "I see Alison gave you the 'something borrowed.'"
"Well yes," Belle said, her face turning red again as she said, "I'm afraid to ask where she got it though."
Tzila laughed lightly as she said, "They are hers… the Queen of the Outlands Jewels to be specific."
Belle's mouth dropped open as Gold raised his brows.
"The Queen's Jewels?"
"Also known as the Mage's Imperial Jewels," Tzila said, "After all, there are Four High Queens. Alison would be that Fourth Queen, even though most former Wonderland Mages don't flaunt that fact."
Belle looked humbled and timid as she said, shaking her head, "I didn't know-!"
"Of course not," Tzila said, "After all, not accepting to wear them today would have been an insult. So I'm sure she didn't tell you that on purpose so you wouldn't accidentally do so."
"And insult?" Belle looked curious now as Tzila said, smiling, "You really don't know Wonderland culture too well, do you? In Wonderland, the weddings are an important occasion. The High Queen's are responsible for attending the weddings in their realm. The Queen brings the bride 'something borrowed' to wear on their special day. It's a sign of appreciation of loyalty and love."
Tzila inclined her head as she said, "Including you means she accepts you as family."
Belle blushed again, looking down before glancing over at Alison. Tzila nodded at Gold, who nodded back in appreciation. Tzila then said, "I apologize for not letting her come with you. However, it is safer for her this way, I promise you."
"We understand," Gold said, before Tzila waved her hands as she disappeared in a glimmer of shadows.
The incessant chatter around her was annoying.
Alison had never been one for parties, and she would have appreciated that not too many people were here. However, everyone seemed to feel the need to chatter whenever there wasn't food in their mouths. Alison, who was sitting at the table with the Charmings, Emma, Henry, and Piper, made a face as she said, under her breath, "Jabber, jabber, all you people do is jabber."
"So talk," Henry said cheekily to his friend, "All you need to do is talk."
Alison stuck out her tongue at him a moment before glancing around the room. Belle and Gold were greeting people, who were congratulating them. Settling her eyes on the table Jefferson, Grace, and Chess were at, Alison said with a mischievous grin, "Alright then. Let's talk about your inaction."
"My in-what?" Henry said baffled.
"You," Alison said, "Have been sitting here with me all night. You have yet to go and ask Grace to dance with you."
"What-?" Henry said, getting flustered as Alison said, haughtily, "I'm klutzy, not stupid. I've seen the way you look at her."
"I don't-," Henry started.
"And I also know that Archie gave you a journal long ago to help vent your frustrations," Alison said, "And I know you keep it hidden in your pillow cover in hopes that I or others wouldn't notice. But alas I did because no child actually makes their bed neatly like you for no real reason."
"I hate you," Henry said, "And I don't even know if you keep a journal so that's really not fair!"
"No. The best secret kept is the one you keep to yourself," Alison said smoothly. Henry gave her an indignant look as she said, "Come on! Go on and ask her."
"Why? I mean, no one is dancing!"
Music began, causing them both to look out at the dance floor. Gold and Belle were at the center, moving to the slow and gentle music. A few other couples joined them as Alison looked over at him grinning. Rolling his eyes, he lightly shoved her as he said, "Fine, then. If I die, you're coming with me."
Alison grinned as Henry disappeared. Charming and Snow exchanged glances before they got up saying, "We'll be back before our cake gets stale!"
Emma rolled her eyes as she took a bite of her cake. Alison brushed back her hair, which for once was in soft curls. Alison had her hair partially pulled back with gold bird clips. Her dress was the one in the same, as Belle had kept it safe with her gown. Her stockings were black as she wore wedged boots. Emma couldn't help but grin at remember how much fuss she gave to Mary Margaret about 'dressing her up'. Piper, who had already finished his cake, looked at Alison's untouched slice and he asked, "Not going to eat your cake?"
"No," Alison said, shaking her head.
"She doesn't like sweets," Emma said, simply, taking the last bite of her cake. Piper raised his brows, half amused and half curious. Alison glanced at him and said, cheekily, "Don't get any idea's either. I'm saving it for a friend."
Piper snorted as Alison's expression turned serious. She looked at Emma and said, "Emma… I had a question for you."
"What?"
"The day you dove into the river to save me," Alison said, "You said something pushed us back up?"
"Yeah," Emma said, shifting in her seat.
"Did you see what or who it was?"
"No," Emma said, "I didn't. But I definitely felt something pushing us up. Something that wasn't the river."
Alison nodded softly as they fell into silence. Piper was the first to break it as he said, "Well, Miss Swan. Care to honor me with a dance?"
Emma looked at him, amused as he stood up. He held out his hand, looking at her jokingly. Emma grinned as she said, "Very well."
The two left, leaving Alison alone. A waiter came around, bending over to ask, "Would you me to take that for you?"
"Box it if you would," Alison said, "I'd like to be able to take it home with me."
"Of course," the man said, taking her plate and hurrying away. Alison stood up, walking towards a door that led her to an outside garden. The cool air hit her arms; however she didn't let it bug her. She walked along, looking for something. The gardens were nice, even in the fall dullness. However, Alison was happier to find the small pond near the corner of the property. Kneeling down by the pond edge, Alison hummed a tune as she swirled her finger around in the pond. At first, nothing happened. However, after a moment, water began to spiral up into the air. A woman with long blonde crimped hair was standing on the water, smiling coyly at her. Her greek like white dress was hanging off her formlessly as she walked toward Alison saying, "Hello dear. How nice of you to summon me."
"I'm sorry I haven't," Alison said, "I was otherwise engaged."
"I know," her voice turned unsavory, "If only the King of Hearts had stayed in the water longer, I would have taught him a lesson."
"So was it you that pushed us up?"
"Hardly," the Siren said smoothly, "Someone else did… a friend of mine so to speak. However I won't say anymore than that."
"Why not?"
"Not the type of being to go around saving people," Siren said, "Let's leave it at that."
Alison nodded as the Siren looked at her intently. Siren walked towards her, her feet on the water. Alison shifted as the Siren spoke softly, "I'm sorry you lost Dee and Dum. They were dear to you, I know that…"
"Wonderland is dear to me," Alison said, a little cautiously, "Just as these people are dear to me…"
"Do not worry dear," Siren said, coyly, "Death and I actually decided it was not your time to return to Wonderland. Not yet…"
Alison paled.
It wasn't just a visible paleness, even her magic which burned brightly paled at the mention of one of the Siren's words. A tremor went through Alison, even though she tried to keep still. Alison stood rigidly as Siren whispered playfully, "Surely you did not think I came alone? After all, why would I?"
"I'm wondering why you came at all," Alison said, keeping her voice calm as she could.
"All in good time," The Siren said, smiling wickedly, "besides I like to play your little games. They amuse me as well as you."
The Siren leaned forward as she got closer to Alison, taking Alison's chin in her fingers. Alison looked into the Siren's fierce eyes as the woman said, "But I won't keep you from getting back to the party. Enjoy yourself dear…."
The Siren melted back into the water as she said musically, "While you can still hold them dear to you."
Alison stood rigidly, even though she stood alone. She remained that way a while, staring into the water. The cold air made goose bumps appeared on her arms. Finally moving her arms, Alison heard from behind her.
"What an unpleasant statement."
Alison turned around to see Chesshire standing there, dressed in a suit and tie. Alison couldn't help but smile as he said, "But then again, she always had a degree of unpleasantry."
"Oh?" Alison said walking towards him, "You don't like her obvious charm?"
"No," Chess said, wrinkling his nose, "We Cheshire Cats don't appreciate it."
"Oh that's right," Alison said stopping directly in front of him, "You're immune."
"Thankfully," Chess said the expression o his face remaining the same, "Now shall we head inside? I'm freezing out here!"
Alison giggled as Chess said, seriously, "Besides, they will be leaving soon and I'm sure you will want to say goodbye."
"Leaving?" Alison said surprised, "Already?"
"Yeah, they just announced the last dance," Chess said as they walked towards the building. Alison walked over to the window that gave her a good view of the dance floor. Alison frowned lightly as she saw Belle and Rumpelstiltskin dance. Chess noticed as he asked, "Are you alright?"
"It's nothing…," Alison said, her voice softening a bit. Chess frowned as he said, "Secrets are one step away from lying. I believe a little girl told me that once."
Alison gave him a sly smile before letting it drop. Alison stared through the window as she said, "Just what the Siren said…"
"While they are dear to you?"
"Yeah," Alison said, "That was oddly specific…"
"Like she meant something by it."
"Like she had been reading something," Alison said pointedly. Chess looked surprised as he said, "You think that the Compendium continued?"
"That seems to be what she implies," Alison said.
"But how is that possible?" Chess said, "The Compendium shows what occurs in Wonderland, not beyond it."
"How else would you explain it?" Alison said, firmly.
Chess sighed, shrugging slightly. His face looked a little concerned for a moment, before a smile reappeared. Alison looked puzzled, tilting her head as she looked at him. Chess then reached out his hand as he said, "Worse comes to worse, you'll always have a family with the Cheshire Cats."
"Running in the meadows," Alison said softly, "Jumping off cliffs before I'm ready."
"No one is ever ready to jump off a cliff," Chess said with a huff, "Especially me."
"Sofronia always seemed ready," Alison said, teasingly.
"Hasn't Wonderland taught you anything?" Chess said, obviously annoyed, "It's not that she always seems ready, it's the fact she accepts that she's not."
Alison smiled warmly as he watched her, his grin not fading. Leaning over, Chess said, "You didn't dance once this evening."
Alison's smile returned, turning to look at him fully. Chess watched her as she shrugged saying, "I had no one to dance with. The one person I would have liked a dance from told me he didn't like to dance..."
"Oh really?" Chess narrowed his eyes, looking inside to see Gold dancing with Belle. But a grin appeared on his face as he said, "Well, I only know one solution."
Alison couldn't help but laugh lightly as Chess did an extravagant bow. He looked at her saying smoothly, "May I have this dance?"
Alison curtsied with a flourish not like her as she grinned at him saying, "Of course, good sir."
Chess snorted as he took her hand saying, "Then let us dance."
Chess flourished his other hand as a box appeared on a nearby bench. It opened the Wonderland Waltz starting. Alison giggled as he placed his free hand at her back. She placed her hand on his shoulder as he danced her around the garden gracefully.
Well, as graceful as Alison could get. Jefferson had been the only one that could avoid her missteps and make them look perfectly natural. Chess was good at avoiding getting his feet out of the way, but he would lead in such a way that she would be guaranteed to stumble a bit. He let his grin widen as she stumbled into him. Alison made an indignant face at him as she said stubbornly, "Must you make me do that?"
"Of course!" Chess said cheerfully, "This way, no one will notice your little slips! They'll blame it all on me, saying I should be more careful with a beautiful young lassie."
"I doubt anyone at the Queens courts would call me that," Alison said giggling, "And no one is around!"
"Practice makes perfect, love," Chess said smoothly. Spinning her with one hand, Chess spun her back into her arms as he said, "And believe me, I need all the practice I can get."
Alison smile faded a bit as she noticed something strange in his voice. He slowed the dance down even more as he looked at her in a strange earnest. His smile also died as he watched her. Alison finally stopped him, letting go of his shoulder as she took his hand in concern. He let his other hand grasp the outside of hers as she asked, "Chesshire, are you alright?"
Chess shrugged a bit, but asked softly, "You know that I love you more than anything?"
"I know," Alison said, surprised, "Just as I love you… Chesshire, what is wrong with your silly little head?"
Chess smiled, but weakly as he said, "We've always been bound by something we couldn't understand… Willing to spend our entire lives with one another."
"Of course," Alison said, her voice concerned, "Unless you wanted something else?"
Chess let out a laugh, weak and almost mocking. He bent down to kiss her hands again as he looked back up at her saying, "No, no my dear Alice. I've wanted nothing more than what my parents had."
"And what was that?"
Chess reached up to pull a stay curl back as he said, "Companionship. It's something Elizabeth had with Aislinn and that my mother and father had…"
Chess grew serious as he said, "Alice, it doesn't matter if you fall in love as time go on, I would be happy with just this."
Alison wrinkled her nose adorably as she said, "Falling in love is dangerous. I'd rather fall down a rabbit hole."
Alison let go of his hands and ruffled his hair gently as she said, "I'm happy with this, as I will always be."
Chess made a face as he said, "You and my hair… I don't understand your obsession with it."
"It's soft, softer than any human hair!" Alison said with a bit of a huff. Chess snickered before saying, "You should head back inside. The dance is probably over by now. But first…"
Chess gave her a chaste kiss of peace, one few people gave anymore. Chess looked at her before disappearing into smoke, leaving her alone. Alison shook her head as she said, "Crazy cat…"
"Alison!"
Gold turned at the sound of his wife's voice, seeing his young Alison walk towards him. He couldn't help but smile as Belle let go of his arm and reach out for her saying, "Look at you! You have goose bumps all over your arms and your cheeks are red!"
"I went out for some air," Alison said sheepishly, "It got a little too stuffy, even for me."
"And that is saying a lot coming from a Wonderlander," Gold teased, watching as Belle embraced Alison, rubbing the sides of the young girl's arms. Alison stuck her tongue out at him, as Gold clucked his tongue saying, "I'll remove that if you're not careful."
"You will do no such thing," Belle admonished before kissing the top of Alison's head. Alison looked up at her and saw a look of sadness on Belle's face. Alison felt a pang in her stomach, knowing well of what was coming next. Belle squeezed her tighter as she almost whimpered, "Oh, I don't want to leave you. Really, I don't!"
"It's alright," Alison said, "You'll be back soon, and I won't be alone!"
"Granny will be staying with her," Gold reasoned, "And the Charmings have promised to look after her as well as Kathryn."
"I'll be fine," Alison said, squeezing Belle tight before letting her go, "Ryaden will get you through whatever you have to do and you'll be back before you know it."
Belle let her go, nodding softly. Alison then turned to Gold as he held his arms out. Alison pounced on him, making him stumble just a little. Gold hugged her tight; tighter than he had ever before and his thick Scottish accent apparent in his whisper, "Remember our deal."
"I'll remember," Alison murmured, but added teasingly, "I don't know what good burnt to a crisp apples will do."
Gold snickered as he mocked her saying, "Then you had better find a way to save them, or I'll be forced to make you do store inventory for the rest of your life."
"I'd like to see you try," Alison said, huffing playfully. Gold's humor died down however as he said, "But I'm serious… No magic."
"To help anyone in Storybrooke, I know," Alison murmured, "I gave you my word, I'll chicken wing Emma to do everything."
Gold snorted softly as Belle rolled her eyes. But she remained smiling as Gold kissed Alison's cheek whispering, "We'll be back…"
"I know," Alison said, kissing him back before they parted. A small cough and they looked over to see Tzila standing there waiting. She looked at them apologetically as she said, "Ryaden is waiting in the back room with the portal. Hello, Alice."
"Hey, Tzila," Alison said, keeping her voice light. There was a loud noise as the microphone screeched feedback. Everyone hissed and covered their ears as Snow looked at them apologetically.
"Sorry," Snow said, "However, I wanted all of your attention for our last event of the night!"
Alison felt a tapping on her shoulder as people began to crowd around Belle and Gold. She looked behind her to see a slightly exasperated looking waiter. He was holding a box as Alison ushered her apologies. Snow began to speak, Alison turning back to face them.
"We'd like to raise up our congratulations as you leave us," Snow said, pulling out a bag. Alison looked around as she saw people take out small bags from pockets and handbags. Gold wrinkled his nose as Belle looked curious as Snow said, "Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Gold!"
Everyone threw up the rose petals in the air, showering them in a delicate way. Alison smiled as Belle giggled as Gold pulled her out of the room with Tzila leading the way. Alison smile faded a bit as she turned on her heel, not wishing to attempt to prolong this goodbye. She wandered to her seat where she snagged her coat and pulled it on quietly. Alison then walked with her box in hand as she left the party.
The streets were empty, not too many people out walking. Alison walked along the sidewalk, heading towards a residential area. The street lamps were lit, illuminating her way. She finally found herself walking along some hedges until she found herself at a gate. Pushing it open with one hand, Alison bit her lip before walking over to the door. When she had reached it, Alison knocked upon it loudly. The lights inside were dim, she had absolutely no idea if the person was even still awake.
Her question was answered when Regina opened the door.
"Alison," Regina said surprised, dressed in a thick dressing gown and her silk pajamas, "What are you doing here?"
Alison held up a box as she said sheepishly, "I hate cake."
Regina froze a minute, as if trying to understand what she was saying. After a moment, she smiled. It wasn't her usual business smile or anything of the falsity. It was real and sincere. Taking the box, Regina said, "Well I hope you like apple turnover because I don't plan on eating alone."
The man sighed deeply.
His dark brown hair was falling into his eyes, concealing partially his tired eyes. His legs were crossed; his vest and pants the matching grey. His shoes were pitch black and his shirt white and untucked. Tapping his golden pen on his knee, he paid no mind to the woman that walked into the room filled with lights.
"Lost in that brilliant mind of yours?"
"Somewhere in it," the man spoke, his accent thick as the woman came up beside him. She smiled, coyly and cat like as she said, "You and this creation… what do you hope to accomplish with it?"
"Peace Sofronia," the man said, his voice tired, "Peace of mind for everyone when I am gone…"
"That's not something we should be worried about," Sofronia said, resting her hands on her shoulders. The man shook his head as he said, "It should very well be. I have written countless of stories of the Mages to be-."
"Which should be more than enough!" Sofronia said, her voice urgent, "More than enough knowledge for man to know."
"It is not for man to know," the man said suddenly, "It is for Mages to know. And the Last Mage will never know the importance of her tale if I can't comprehend its puzzle!"
Sofronia watched him with cautious eyes, loving eyes. The Mage seemed perplexed and frustrated, turning to the lights floating in the room. Rubbing his shoulders slightly, Sofronia asked, "Why is it so important? This Mage?"
"She will be the key to Wonderland's redemption, Sofronia," The Original Mage said, "And have the most wonderful adventures… If only I could discover what they will be."
"Perhaps you were not meant to," Sofronia said, softly, "Not every rock should be overturned, my love."
'If that is so," The Original Mage said grievously, "I have condemned a child to a fate unknown."
"Ole-Leu has written to you."
"Ole-Leu? What does my merchant friend want from me today?" The Mage said, throwing his pen on the writing desk before him and turned his chair to look fully at her. Sofronia let go of his shoulders as she said, "He said the Black Fairy has disappeared. He wants to know if you would come help him locate her."
"Very well," the Original Mage said, "I will write back to him… Did Chess give you a hard time falling asleep?"
"No," Sofronia said rolling her eyes, "After he played his little game of hide and go seek, he fell right asleep."
"Good to know that he isn't giving his mother any trouble," the Mage said, "I will go up and see him in a bit."
"Very well," Sofronia said, "I will be going to check on some other things before the night ends."
"Mhm," the Original Mage said, looking up towards the lights. Shaking her head, she left him to his thoughts. The man closed his eyes, visions that conflicted each other filling his head. Frowning deeply, the man murmured, "Why can't I unsolved your puzzle my dear? Why does your fate skirt from me?"
Temperance Tales: I know this probably felt like a mellow chapter, I figured it should be. After all, we need to be able to appreciate the down time. I'm sorry if it is taking me longer to load up more chapter. I have a lot going on, and this sadly can't be on top of my list of priorities. However, I promise I won't abandon this story. I don't like doing that, especially since we're almost near the end. 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.
