Chapter Sixty Seven: Happy Endings.

There was cruel laugh that overpowered everything.

The world was a barren wasteland, the plant life long since dead. The clouds above her were thunderous, and the air around her suffocating. She felt rooted to the spot, the wind locking her in place. His laugh made her cry, his power made her afraid. This man was no man, no form to vanquish and no life that could end. The laugh grew louder as the tornado of wind grew strong as she began to cry.

"Lovely, lovely little child. Remember your part and the consequence will be mild," his voice thundered, "If you forget and lie once more, I will force you back right through the door. If you fight, you will pay. NOT ONE OF THOSE ENCHANTERS GETS ANY SAY!"

She screamed, feeling a burning in her heart as she collapsed. The laughter faded and the wind kept blowing. However, a scene began to form ahead of her. She looked ahead to see people, people that she cared about. People that she loved. The barren waste land seemed to disappear as she watched through the tornado. They were walking and living in Storybrooke. Happy, joyful… and without her. She saw the Charming's eating, Kathryn's family walking…and Gold with Belle. Belle was holding her stomach, which was swelled with pregnancy. Alison extended her hand as if to touch the scene, to be a part of the scene.

But it was not to be.

The tornado snapped the scene away, almost yanking the poor girls arm off. She clutched her arm as she cried in pain. The Tornado began to fill with red smoke, the cruel laughter apparent again. The young girl screamed as the red smoke surrounded her, laughter overtaking all.

Alison gasped, jolting up in the bed.

Piper could be heard snoring out in the living room, sleeping on the couch in Emma's apartment. Unfortunately, Emma was not so blissfully unaware since she was in the same bed. Rolling over, Emma stirred as if she was going to awaken. Alison froze, afraid to move a muscle. Emma opened her eyes blearily a moment, however she soon fell back into her deep sleep. Exhaling, Alison slowly and sneakily got up from the bed.

She couldn't go run to the shower. It wasn't possible here without waking everyone up. However, she did manage to go over to the window and crack it open a little bit. The cool air hit her, the breeze blowing against her sweating skin. Alison shivered, but did not move. She needed the cold as she looked up out of the window.

With all the town lights the stars could not be seen. However, Alison knew they were there and hoped not just her parents but Gold and Belle were watching them too. It brought the tiniest comfort in the wave uncertainty that was growing large and larger with each passing day. Despite all of her balls of lights, she never got a response from her parents. No Tink, no Peter, just nothing. Perhaps it was meaningless to send the messages of light. However, Alison found herself making another, not to her parents, but to the two that she had thought would be back to her by now.

"Hey," Alison whispered in the ball of light, "It's me… I hope you enjoyed your honeymoon or are enjoying it still. It's just about December now and it still hasn't snowed. I… I can't sleep tonight. My nightmares have been bugging me more than usual. I hope you come home soon… it's not the same without you. I love you…"

The ball of light pulsated as Alison said, "Find them."

It flew out the window, leaving her behind. Alison bit her lip, rubbing her arms as she stared after it a while longer. No matter what Alison could not shake her dream. Alison was so lost in her own thoughts she almost didn't hear Emma say, "Kid?"

Alison whipped her head around to see Emma sitting up in bed. She was watching Alison with a tired yet concerned expression. Alison closed the window quietly as Emma asked, "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine," Alison said a bit stiffly, "I-I just had a spooky dream…needed some air."

"Do you want to talk about it?" Emma questioned and Alison shook her head venomously. Alison walked back to bed and sat down next to Emma. Emma bit her lip, wondering if she should press it. However, she decided against it and brushed back Alison's hair. Alison didn't protest, obviously too tired to do anything. Emma hugged Alison gently, whispering, "They'll be back soon kid. The old man's probably going nuts not being able to see you."

Alison smiled weakly before Emma said, "Try to get more sleep. Nothing ever makes sense in the middle of the night."

Alison laid down next to her a murmured before closing her eyes, "The Sandman would probably beg to disagree."

Ole-Leu-Okie smiled as he watched the scene in his dreamy domain, floating in the air. He continued to watch as he sipped on tea and said, "Indeed I would. All the best thinking happens at night."

"Why do you keep tormenting her?"

Ole-Leu-Okie glanced back at his friend who appeared in the flakes of cold. The Sandman looked back at the picture of the sleeping females before saying, "Hard as it is to believe, it is not torture. It's progression."

"Progression," repeated Jack Frost, "To what, Insanity?"

"No," Ole-Leu-Okie said thoughtfully, "She already has that ability. No… progression to her Fate. You know better than I that no one can stop what goes on inside her pretty little mind except herself."

"So you leave her to suffer when you have the power to help guide her?"

"So do you," Ole-Leu-Okie said, seriously, "But you know better than I what dangers lay in interfering. The Compendium is moving… waiting. Fate will not tolerate meddling of third parties, you know this."

Jack Frost watched the old man float in the air as he said, "December, December, I could barely tell with the lack of snow my friend."

Jack held a shadow of a smile on his face as he said with a twirl of his staff, "I'm saving it for a very special day."


"Kids! It's time to come down and eat!"

Snow White and Charming were in their kitchen, making breakfast. The Saturday morning sun was shining in to the kitchen as they did so, making everything that much brighter. The smells in the kitchen were delicious, wafting throughout the whole apartment. Snow was stirring the eggs as Charming came up behind her and kissed her cheek. Snow White smiled warmly as Charming said, "You okay? You seemed a little sick this morning."

"Just some typical morning sickness," Snow said, lightly, "Nothing to be worried about."

"Akk!"

Charming and Snow looked towards the stairs, seeing Emma walk down. A pillow had hit her in the head as she stumbled to grab it. Turning around, she threw it up the stairs saying, "No more of that! We have a guest coming for breakfast and she is not going to want a pillow to the face."

Snow White giggled as Charming grinned. Emma shook her head as she wandered over to them saying, "Those two. If it wasn't for the fact I was his mother, I would think they were brother and sister."

"They might as well be with how often she's with you," Charming said, going around Snow with a plate of sausage and bacon. Snow watched him with a knowing smile as she said, "Not that we mind. It's nice having a full house."

Emma watched Snow turn to put the eggs onto a plate as she sat at the stool. Shifting uncomfortably, Emma said, "Actually speaking about that-."

A loud knock at the door interrupted her as Snow raced to go get it. Emma quieted immediately as Charming walked towards the door saying, "Alright you two! I'm coming up!"

Charming disappeared as Snow White allowed Rapunzel into the apartment. Her belly was quite round, indicating that she was very close to her due date. There was a thump and a screech of laughter up the stairs that caught her attention. Snow White closed the door and turned towards Rapunzel as she said, "I see someone is having fun?"

"They always do," Snow said, "Come sit down, breakfast is just about ready."

Rapunzel came over to the table and sat down on the end. Sighing, she rubbed her belly as Snow came to sit by her. Emma watched the two as Snow White asked, "How is the baby doing?"

"Alright according to the doctor," Rapunzel said, with a bit of a whimper, "But the baby hasn't moved in a while and my back has been sore."

"I'm sure it's just because of the stress," Snow said, "We'll find him, don't worry."

There was a thumping down the stairs as Charming came down with Henry on his back. Henry was still in his pj's, consisting of plaid sweats and a long sleeved shirt. Saturday mornings were always like that. Emma never made them change into clothes before coming over for breakfast. Alison followed him down, dressed in sweats and a black tee-shirt. Emma couldn't help but smile as Charming jumped a bit and said, "Alright kids, you've both had your fun. It's time to eat."

"Fine fine," huffed Alison as Henry hopped off his Grandfather's back. Alison walked around towards Emma, who had gotten up to help with the plates of food. Emma looked over at her as she asked, softly, "Did you sleep okay? You tossed and turned quite a bit last night."

Emma did not make mention of what exactly had occurred last night and Alison appreciated it. Alison glanced back at the group of people before shrugging.

"Yeah, just not so nice dreams," Alison murmured, taking the plate of eggs as Emma took the other two plates. Emma nudged her gently before saying, "Well, better get some food into you before we head off to magic training. God knows we'll need it."

"Do you think Regina's gonna care that I'm in my pajama's?" Alison asked, sarcastically.

"I think Madame Regal will get over our very casual Saturday wear," Emma said.

Alison grinned as they went off towards the table, sitting down. Henry sat next to Alison as they all settled into their seats. Passing around the food, Snow asked, "So Alison. I heard Kathryn and her family were having a big dinner last night. I'm surprised you slept over."

"I wanted her to have some time with Frederick," Alison said, passing around the plate of eggs, "Besides, I wanted to stay over."

"Yeah, I never get to see her now that she has a new best friend," Henry mocked.

"Like you and Grace," Alison shot back.

"Enough you two!" scolded Charming, "Geez, you two are worse than Emma and Regina."

"Hey!" Emma said, looking offended. Snow rolled her eyes as Alison grinned at Henry. All of them started eating, the silence lasting for a little bit. Emma looked at Alison as she asked, "So… new best friend? What's his name and why haven't we met him yet?"

"How do you know it's a he?" Alison accused, "It could be a she."

"You have a tendency to make friends with the boys," Emma teased.

"Anyway, regardless of whether it is a he or a she," Snow interrupted, "Who is it?"

"His name is Fife," Alison said, after taking a bit of her eggs, "He's in the program with me."

"Oh, I know him," Snow said, cheerfully, "He's Avenant's little apprentice."

"Makes it that much worse," Henry joked, and Alison kicked him under the table. Henry kicked her back as Charming rolled his eyes. Emma grinned as she said, "Still… I have yet to meet this best friend and it seems neither has Henry."

"I don't want to meet him," Henry said, somewhat grumpily. Alison looked at him surprised as did Snow. Emma and Charming exchanged glances before letting a brief smirk grace their faces. Alison put down her fork and said, "Why not? Do you know him already?"

"No-!"

"Anyway!" Emma said loudly, saving Henry from answering, "Stop deflecting kid. I want to meet this friend, or I am immediately going to assume the worst."

"What?" Alison looked baffled until she saw Emma grinning teasingly, "Oh ew! Really?! I can barely stand when everyone else is mushy!"

"Alright! That's enough of that conversation," Charming said quickly, as if he was uncomfortable with the situation. Snow looked intrigued but didn't elaborate. Emma rolled her eyes as Rapunzel grimaced. Alison looked at her, her face concerned as Henry asked, "Are you okay?"

"I-I just need to lie down," Rapunzel said, pushing back her chair as she went to stand up, "Give me a minute."

Rapunzel wandered over to the couch as she laid down upon it. Everyone watched her in concern as Alison stood up in her chair abruptly. Charming looked at Emma as she said, "David I would go start up the truck. We should take her to the hospital…"

"Are you sure, she just may need to lay down," Snow protested as Emma shook her head.

"She needs to go. She could be going into labor," Emma said as Henry stood up to go follow his friend. David nodded and hurried towards the door. Alison knelt down by the couch as she asked, "Where does it hurt?"

"My hips mostly," Rapunzel whispered, looking a little shaky. Alison made a face as she asked hesitantly, "Can I feel?"

Rapunzel nodded, whimpering slightly as she felt the pain increase. Alison felt the belly, her hands pressing gently in some places. Rapunzel gasped when she felt the baby move, kicking. The pain alleviated a little as she stared at Alison in wonder.

"How did you-?"

"Lots of people were fleeing from the Queen's of Hearts soldiers," Alison said, "After I built up the Outland's walls, many people would come and hide for a time. There were a lot of expecting woman at the time, I learned a couple of tricks along the way."

Henry looked impressed as Alison stared at Rapunzel seriously as she said, "However, you should rest up. It feels like baby girl is positioning to come out."

Rapunzel raised her brows as she said incredulously, "You think the baby is a girl?"

"Yup," Alison said, "and I haven't been wrong yet."

Rapunzel grimaced, clenching her eyes shut as she felt the pain return. Alison grasped her hand, allowing Rapunzel to squeeze it. Henry looked helpless as Rapunzel gasped. Snow rushed over to them with a cool wet cloth as Rapunzel said in tears, "At this rate, I'll never find him… not before the baby comes."

"We'll find him," Snow soothed as Rapunzel gasped. Alison watched her with a determined look. Henry noticed it however Emma called him away saying, "Henry, the phone is for you!"

"Okay!" Henry raced over, leaving his friend alone. Alison walked over towards Emma, who glanced at Rapunzel nervously. Before Alison could leave to go upstairs, Emma caught Alison by the arm and said, "I know you're not supposed to be magically helping… but maybe you could check that book again to see if you can find something?"

"I can look," Alison said, slightly exasperated, "But I don't remember her story being in it…"

"Looking is all I ask," Emma said, "I wouldn't ask at all… but she's going to have that baby soon. You and Henry seem to have a magic touch for finding the answers…"

Alison looked at Rapunzel sympathetically as she said, "I'll try."


"Thanks Granny."

Granny watched Leroy and the other dwarves dive into the breakfast laid out before them. Shaking her head, Granny leaned against the counters and asked, "Have you found any yet?"

"Diamonds for Fairy dust?" Leroy paused in eating to make a face as he said, "Nothing. Not a single one. You would think with the magic settling in we could find at least a little bit."

"Well happy hunting to you," Granny said, "I will be here all day, covering for a certain red riding hood."

"Not coming in today?"

"She and August are having a day," Granny said, closing the book near her, "Which is fine, because she promised double shifts for the next few days."

"Why? So you could watch the midget?"

"I'm right here," Alison said, sitting down at the other end of the counter with her book. Leroy glanced over at her as she said, pointedly, "And I'm just about your height so I wouldn't talk, Grumpy."

Leroy rolled his eyes as he said mockingly, "Forgive me, Majesty."

"You're forgiven," Alison said mockingly as Granny approached. Leroy snickered before going back to his breakfast. Granny shook her head as she said, "So this is what you're doing with your Saturday off? Not running around with Henry or your new little friend?"

"No, her 'new little friend' is at home doing his homework."

Alison froze a moment before turning to see Avenant behind her. He was wearing his usual attire with the addition of a grey wool winter coat. Alison smiled sheepishly at him as Granny said, "I will be right back with your order, Professor."

"Thank you," Avenant said, watching Granny leave. Alison watched her a moment before going back into the storybook. Avenant sat down beside her as he said, "Well that doesn't look like homework to me. I'm sure Miss Gerson still gives out homework, as lenient as she is."

"No," Alison said, dismissively, "She gave homework, I did it and this is going supposed to help me find the father of a baby that is about to be born into this world without him."

Alison shut the book with a snap as she muttered, "But it doesn't help that the story is not in here."

"Well then find another book," Avenant said, "there is also this new invention called the internet."

"There are too many variants of the stories," Alison said, a little crossly, "I'll never sort out what's the truth and what's not."

"It is possible," Avenant said, "You have the mother, you have her story. Just find the one that fits best and the truth will be bound to pop up."

Alison looked at him with a teasing look and said, "I guess people are wrong about you."

"Oh?" Avenant said intrigued.

"Yeah," Alison said, with fake innocence, "Your heart does exist."

Avenant smirked as he said, "It won't if you fail another history exam."

"I didn't fail," Alison said baffled.

"You didn't do well," Avenant scowled.

"I passed!" Alison said exasperated.

"Barely," Avenant said crossly, "You are capable of getting good grades in everything else. I find it hard to believe that History is the exception."

"Shouldn't you be scolding me about my back or something music related?" asked Alison, wrinkling her nose. Avenant rolled his eyes as Granny came back with her food saying, "Here you are professor. I hope the young one here isn't giving you a hard time."

"Quite the opposite," Alison said a little hardly as Avenant took the bag of food. Tapping her back deliberately, Avenant said, "Internet, history homework, and back. If I find you haven't done all three, you will wish you had."

Avenant left Alison alone, who stuck her tongue out after him. Granny chuckled as Alison put her book in her bag and closed it with some agitation. Granny looked at her quizzically as she asked, "He wasn't bugging you too much about that history grade, was he? I can always tell him where he can put his massive ego."

"Not really," Alison said, "Just the usual bantering. I'm off to the library to see if I can find books on Rapunzel there."

"You really should use the internet," Granny called after her, "But just to annoy him, use Wikipedia! Teachers can't stand that reference!"

Leroy snickered before taking a sip of his coffee. Granny walked back over to them when Doc said, "Are you trying to get her in trouble?"

"It serves him right for thinking he can continuously scold her outside of school hours," Granny said, "That's my job, not his."

Avenant made a sour face as he approached the school with a sour expression. Turning off the ear piece in his ear, he took it out saying darkly, "We shall see about that old woman."


"What in the world are you doing in my son's room?"

Alison looked up to see Regina enter Henry's room at Regina's. Alison was sitting at the computer, waiting for a screen to load. Her hair was tied back into a bun, showing off her face for once. Alison turned the page of the old library book on her lap, saying, "Did you know out of all the stories in the books my dad gave Henry and I that Rapunzel's story is miraculously missing?"

Regina took off her winter coat as she placed it on the bed saying, "Perhaps your father didn't know it?"

"Maybe, but I think it's even freakier that the library doesn't simply have Rapunzel stories either," Alison said darkly, "I think someone is deliberately trying to stop us from finding her prince."

"Or perhaps the library just is not stocked well?" Regina mocked playfully, "I say we fire the librarian."

"Haha, not funny," Alison said rolling her eyes, "I'm being serious."

"And I'm being serious that you really should be doing your History homework," Regina said, walking over to her to lean against the desk, "I saw that last test grade and it was not pretty."

"C+ is passing," Alison argued, "And since when did you become my mother?"

"Since your mother is currently trapped on an Island and your adoptive mother is MIA," Regina said, "Besides, you get A's in everything else. Why is History not important?"

"Because this world's history is repetitive and boring," Alison said, making a face, "People collide, they fight and wipe out whole populations that they think unworthy of living. It is not that interesting."

"Well, this world is sorry that they aren't as skilled in entertainment like Wonderland is," Regina said, "At least they have air conditioning and electric heat."

"I prefer the fireplace, thank you very much," Alison said stoutly, "And air conditioning is too cold."

"So why are you so intent on helping Rapunzel?" Regina said, "Not to be my regal evil self, but why help someone you barely know?"

"Same reasoning I'm helping all of you instead of running off on fantastic adventures with my crew in Wonderland," Alison said, "Everyone deserves a happy ending."

"I'm sensing a deeper reason in that reason," Regina said, "Does this have to do with your family's extended stay away or your tormenting nightmares?"

"Are you spying on me?" Alison accused.

"No, but I did happen to wonder where you were when you skipped your Magic lesson this morning," Regina said and Alison winced. Alison closed the book on her lap, putting it on the table as she had a hard expression on her face. Regina looked at her sympathetically as she said, "I'm not mad. Considering the events of today, I'm willing to let it slide."

Alison stared at the computer screen, shaking her head ever so slightly. Regardless of her stern look, Alison's voice was soft when she said, "They've been gone for months. I haven't heard from them or my parents. I love Granny and Kathryn… I just…"

"Wish they would come back," Regina finished.

"I'm afraid that they won't want to," Alison said, uncomfortably.

Regina was quiet a moment watching the girl with a gentle expression. Reaching forward, she grasped Alison's hand as she said, "I know your grandfather doesn't have the best track record in not running away… but believe me when I say he would never leave you behind."

Alison looked at her queerly at Regina. The expression on Regina's face was… almost motherly. It was something she had never directed at Alison, yet Alison couldn't help but feel a sense of security. Alison couldn't help but smile and Regina took that as a sign that her message had gotten through. Letting go of her hand, Regina said, "Now… I have something to show you."

Waving her hand, Regina had a book magically appear. It was the one she had been given and Alison's curiosity was peeked. Regina handed it to her as she said, "I acquired a new book. An elemental magic user book. It may be difficult, but I think we shall be able to continue our magic lessons now."

"Where did you get it?" Alison asked, her eyes scanning the pages of the book she now held. Regina made a face as she said, "From an old friend… One that we are going to have to be wary of."

"Why?"

Regina face looked conflicted as she said, "Let's just say her interest in finding another elemental magic user puts me on edge."

"Interest? In me?"

"Yes," Regina breathed, "I can't promise that her intentions are good. This brings me to my next topic of discussion."

Alison looked up at Regina as the woman said, "Alison, this friend of mine isn't a hero by any means. She has been searching for another elemental magic user for a long time for whatever the reason. If she offers to teach you-!"

"Why would I go to someone I don't know to be taught?"

"Because she will know a thousand times more than me," Regina said, "You are a Mage Alison. You have a responsibility to Wonderland and I know you are well aware. I am afraid there may come a point in time where you need a teacher better than I."

Alison looked a little unnerved as Regina said, softly, "I don't mean it to scare you, but it is a reality you will face. As Queen, you don't always get make great choices but necessary ones."

The rumbling beneath their feet caught them completely off guard.

The room began to shake as the computer screen flicked off. Things began to come crashing down off the shelves, the electricity failing. Regina grabbed Alison as the rumbling worsened, taking her away from the shelves. However, they did not have to worry long. Soon the rumbling died down and the electricity turned back on. Regina watched the computer turned back on, booting itself up. Alison went around picking up the books when she came across one lying open. On the open page was a picture of a man falling from a tower. At the base of the tower were thorny vines. Alison gasped, her eyes wide in realization. Regina glanced back at her as she asked, "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine," Alison said, "I just have something have to go do."


"Hard at work?"

Avenant made a dark face as he heard Cora's voice. He was sitting at his desk, going through the paperwork that needed to be filled out. Cora walked in, her dress rustling against the floor elegantly. Avenant continued on with his paperwork as he said, "If you are going to insist on visiting me at my work, I insist wearing this worlds clothing."

"You may insist but I refuse," Cora said stubbornly, "It is beneath me to dress so… indecently."

"I hardly call this worlds clothes indecent," Avenant said, "However, I digress. What do you need from me, Majesty?"

"I want to know how my little pet is doing," Cora said, her voice soft, "Is she still living up to your expectations?"

"She is," Avenant said with indifference, "However, it would grieve you to know that I do not think the plan will work."

"Oh?"

"Yes," Avenant said, "She's got quite the support network around her. Kathryn Nolan and Widow Lucas being the main problems."

"You don't think those goodie shoes Charming's will be problems?"

"They are easily manipulated," Avenant said, "Emma and your lovely daughter can be with a little effort on your part and the Gold's are gone. Kathryn and the old woman are the biggest problems because they are so close with Alison. They will see anything we try to do."

"I know Alice best," Cora said, darkly, "If she'll bend to anyone, it is me."

"Pride can be useful to achieve a goal," Avenant said, "But don't be foolish. That child and you are on bad terms and those two will keep her from you. I doubt that's what you want."

"Are you sure you aren't just simply annoyed with what the old dog said this morning?" Cora said mockingly.

"That is not the point," Avenant said darkly, "If you want to use Alison's internal darkness to manipulate her, you need to make sure all potential emotional attachments don't prevent that from happening."

"So how do you suggest we deal with them?" Cora questioned, "Killing them would make too much of a scene."

"Killing is too easy," Avenant said smoothly, "No, what we need is a distraction. We need Alison vulnerable so she can be more… susceptible."

"And you have that way?"

Avenant smirked evilly as he said darkly, "That I do."


Eliza opened the door to see two children standing there. One was a boy and the other a girl. The girl was holding a box of cookies and the boy held papers in his hand. He smiled as he said, "Hi, we are doing a school project with the sheriff's department. We are helping with the census and hope that Mr. Flinn would be willing to help us."

"Well what nice project," cooed Eliza, "Come in, Mr. Flinn is sitting in the living room!"

"Hurry up! Ava said Henry and Grace just went inside!" Alison hissed, putting down her hand holding the walkie talkie.

Will rolled his eyes as he jimmied the lock of the apartment door. They were in a long narrow hallway, the lights brightly shining down. Alison kept watch, jittering her foot nervously as Will said, "You know, if you want to get in here faster you could just use magic."

"I'm not allowed to use magic to help with other people's problems anymore." Alison said, "Besides, magic leaves a trail. I don't want anyone to know we have been here."

There was a click as Will said, "There we go. Make sure to keep your gloves on."

Alison hurried in after him, shutting the door quietly behind her. The place was small, neat, and tidy. Will looked around, frowning a bit as he said, "Doesn't look like a villainous lair."

"Of course it wouldn't, she needed to keep a low profile," Alison said, "If my hunch is right."

"Why wouldn't she just kill him though?" Will asked, as Alison rummaged through the shelves.

"Because it is so much more satisfying to watch the suffering that you cause," Alison said, "Classic Villain behavior 101."

Will rolled his eyes as he said, "It sounds like your grasping at straws."

"It sounds like I have a hunch and I'd appreciate your help," Alison said exasperated. She turned to face him as Will watched her. He watched with an empty expression as she said, "Please… she's going to deliver this baby alone if we don't figure out what's going on."

Will's eyes softened as he said, "Alright… Alright let's find whatever you are looking for."

"So you were a King in the other world?"

Mr. Flinn, Henry, and Grace were sitting in the living room. Mr. Flinn took a sip of water from his glass as he said, "I was a prince, actually. My father had only just passed away before the curse struck."

"I'm sorry," Grace said sympathetically.

"It's alright," Mr. Flinn said, "It had been peaceful at least."

"I see," Henry said, pretending to write down something on the piece of paper, "Any other family?"

"No," Mr. Flinn's voice seemed a tad bit forced as he spoke. Grace glanced at Henry nervously as he put down the pen and paper and reached to pull something out of his bag. It was a ribbon, one with a ring tied to it. Henry glanced at Grace, who nodded eagerly. Reaching out, Henry placed it in the man's hand saying, "How about a wife?"

Mr. Flinn grasped it, silence reigning in the room. He brought it closer to his face as he smelled it deeply. Henry and Grace waiting patiently and hopefully, waiting for him to speak. They did not have to wait long for Mr. Flinn said, in a hoarse tone, "Where did you get this?"

"From a very pregnant woman who has been searching for you," Henry said, "Someone that's been looking for you."

Mr. Flinn looked aghast as he said, "It can't be… she's been dead for years…"

"Not really," Henry said, "Just stuck in a timeless void for a lot of years."

"Now she's here," Grace said, gently, "In the hospital… We really should get going; the baby is going to be here any minute."

Mr. Flinn took in a shaky breath as he rested his forehead on his balled hand. Grace looked at Henry, who nodded at her vaguely. Grace stood up and hurried into the hallway and began to walk around. She began to sneak up the stairs, staring around the house searching. Pulling out a walkie talkie, Grace said, "Ava and Nicholas it's safe to come in now. Alison, did you find it yet?"

"No-!" Alison said, into the walkie talkie before putting it down. Alison pulled a top off a box only to reveal golden lacy dollies. Frowning, the Mage took one out of the box, examining it closely. Pocketing it, Alison put the box lid back on as she said into the walkie talkie, "Please tell me he is the actual prince?"

"Of course he is, why would I tell the twins to come in otherwise?" Grace said, a little crossly.

"Is the caretaker still there? We still haven't found anything yet!"

"No," Grace said as she peeked inside an empty room, "No, she's not anywhere."

Alison groaned again as she rubbed her forehead saying, "Alright... tell me when was the last time you saw her?"

"We came in, she took us into the main room," Grace repeated, stopping in the hallways, "She left to go finish cleaning when Henry and I questioned him about Rapunzel."

Alison froze as she said in a sudden urgent tone, "Wait… what did you tell him?"

"We-We asked if he had any family… we told him about how Rapunzel was looking for him…"

"Did you say where Rapunzel was?" Alison asked sharply.

"Y-Yes," Grace said mortified, "You don't think-?"

"Alison!"

Alison spun upon hearing Will's voice and she raced into the living room again. Will had unlocked a chest that had been under a table. Inside were books, all different books on Rapunzel stories. However that was not the only thing. There were pictures, pictures of a female with golden hair in various places around Storybrooke. Alison's heart sank as Will said, "It seems you were right."

Alison looked horrified and said, "And now she knows we know."


"Did you talk to them yet?"

Emma looked over at Piper as they sat in a booth at Granny's. Making a guilty face, Emma said, "I'm sorry. Rapunzel kind of went into labor before I could bring it up."

"Well as far as excuses go," Piper teased, "I have to say that's a really good one."

Emma lightly shoved him as she said, "Hey! This is a really big step and I don't want to overwhelm them."

"I understand," Piper said simply, "I was just teasing, love."

"I know," Emma said, smiling at him weakly, "I just… I don't want to hurt them. We've kind of gotten into a flow of things. They only just got them used to me living in the apartment."

"I know," Piper said gently, "Emma if you're not ready for this-."

"I am," Emma said, sighing, "I just want to tell them when things are not so…. Crazy?"

"When are things not crazy?" Piper joked as Emma gave him a kick under the table. She rolled her eyes as her phone went off. Pulling it out, Emma answered it, "Emma speaking."

Emma looked surprised as she said, "Hey kid- slow down? What are you doing?"

Emma looked even more shocked and she said, quickly, "Kid, don't do anything until I get ther-!"

Emma stopped abruptly as the phone hung up. Making a face, Emma clicked off her phone as she said, "Speaking of crazy, I have to go stop little Miss Mage from potentially doing something dangerous."

"Crazy wonderlander," Piper said with a grin.

"Hey, is that prejudice I hear, Antician?" Emma made a face as she tried to pronounce the last bit, "Is that even how you say it?"

"Close enough," Piper joked, "And it's not. She just happens to get herself and our son into a lot of trouble."

"True," Emma said, picking up her keys, "And now I have to go get her out of it."


Rapunzel grimaced as she felt the pain in her abdomen. She was sitting in the hospital bed, breathing in deep as she felt another contraction. The doctor had told her that she was not at full dilation yet, that there was still more time. However, Rapunzel was upset that the baby would come and she would arrive before she had found the father.

"-And he said I love you and kissed her lips before departing down the tower."

Rapunzel almost jumped out of her skin, looking towards the doorway to see a woman standing there. She was dressed in shrubs and she looked a bit older than her. However Rapunzel was scared as she walked towards her with a dark expression on her face. She smirked mockingly as she said, "Unfortunately for you, he did not come back up while you were there. If he had, you two could have died together."

"Who are you?" Rapunzel asked, weakly and frightened.

"In this world, my name is Eliza," swooned the woman as she approached. Rapunzel shifted and the woman grasped her arm tightly as her voice began to vibrate as she hissed, "However in the other world, only you know my name, dear."

"No," Rapunzel said, her voice fearful, "No, how-?"

"Magic dear," Eliza snickered, "Let's just say this curse worked in my favor thanks to a certain little imp."

Rapunzel would have screamed if the woman hadn't flicked her hand. Rapunzel found herself unable to speak as the woman sneered, "I raised you… took care of you as my own. And you repaid me by sleeping with the friends of my enemy. Now… I'm going to watch as I watched your mother… writhe in agony as you lose your baby."

"Not a chance!"

The woman howled in pain as she felt something strike her in the back of the head. Rapunzel gasped for breath as she felt the magic leave her. The woman spun around, her face livid as she saw Alison standing there. She glared at her pointedly as she sneered, "You… I've had enough of you nosey children!"

Alison sprinted as she felt the magic rush past her.

The woman leaped after her, following her down the stairwell. Magic flew wildly as the woman attempted to hit Alison with it. Alison didn't stop running and even shouted over her shoulder as she hit the exit door, "YOU'RE TOO SLOW, YOU OLD WITCH!"

The woman snarled as Alison flew outside, scrambling away from the magic that almost hit her square in the head. Alison had run so fast however, that she tripped and fell. She soon found herself looking up in horror to see the face of the woman melt away to reveal a wretched old face. She glared down at Alison as she hissed, "Any last words, little girl?"

Alison went to fling out her hand only to gasp as the woman's magic paralyzed her. The woman scoffed and raised her hand to strike her. However the woman howled as she felt pain shoot up her legs. Powerful magic shot through the ground as the woman heard the following incantation.

"From dust you rose, you wretched beast. To use the magic to force thy victims' feast. Now you shall be the magic you come to crave, except the thorns shall be your grave."

The woman screamed in agony as her legs turned to vines, thorns protruding out of them. Alison felt the magic release and she gasped in shock. The woman completely turned to thorns before she suddenly burst into flames. Alison shrieked, scurrying away as she looked up. Beyond the flames, a woman with curly blond hair stood there, her eyes watching with intent. Winking, the woman disappeared in a flurry of fire and the eleven year old girl was left alone. Alison barely heard Emma screaming her name, racing across the lawn. Bending down beside her, Emma asked, "Are you okay?!"

"I'm fine," Alison said, "But the witch…"

"I'd rather her than you," Emma said, "Come on let's get you inside."


Rapunzel sobbed quietly as Snow White tried to sooth her. Stroking her hair, Snow White said, "It's okay. You're safe now."

"But my love- she killed him," sobbed Rapunzel, "She killed him."

"Rapunzel?"

Rapunzel froze, upon hearing the voice. She choked on her breath, looking towards the doorway to see Henry and Grace leading in a man with sunglasses. Mr. Flinn moved his head to look around as he repeated her name, "Rapunzel?"

"Edmund," choked Rapunzel, as if she didn't believe what she was seeing. Snow back away as he stumbled over to her. Rapunzel embraced him as he tightly hugged her murmuring, "You're alive… You're alive."

"It seemed that witch wanted to keep him close," Snow said smoothly, "To ensure that he would not find you or visa versa."

"But how," Mr. Flinn asked, pulling away as he glanced in the direction of Snow's voice, "How did you figure out-?"

"My friend did," Henry said cheerfully, "You met her before when she fell into your backyard."

"Alison," Mr. Flinn said, his grip on Rapunzel still tight. Henry nodded as he said, "She realized that a lot of the library books on your story had gone missing and we knew it wasn't an accident. However, she didn't realize that one book of fairytales had multiple stories in it. Including yours. After we realized your fate, we figured out what was going on."

"Clever children," Mr. Flinn murmured as Rapunzel reached out to touch his face. Tears fell down her face as she whispered, "What did she do to you?"

"Let's just say those thorns of hers were sharper than I thought," Mr. Flinn as she traced a scar on his neck. Rapunzel felt his hand slip up to her cheek as he said, "No more. I'm here and nothing is going to change that."

He leaned in and Rapunzel did the same. Henry smiled as they kissed; a shutter of light flowing from them. Rapunzel gasped, pulling away as she saw each scar disappear in a sprinkle of light. Edmund inhaled sharply as he took off his sunglasses to rub his eyes. The old scars vanished and his eyes went from a strange paleness to a strong green. Rapunzel smiled warmly as he leaned in it kiss her again. It was sweet and brief one for he followed with, "True love always endures."

"And that is a good lesson for the day," Snow said with a laugh. Rapunzel giggled a moment, only for it to vanish as she inhaled sharply. Rapunzel's hands flew to her belly as she felt another contraction overcome her. The doctor hurried in as she said, "I must ask you to leave. I have a feeling the baby will be coming out sooner than expected."

Snow and Henry ushered out of the room as Rapunzel gasped in pain. Henry glanced back at the doorway before they went to go sit into the waiting room. Henry looked at Snow cheerfully as he said, "Well that is one happy ending down."

Snow laughed as she said, "Indeed…. Thanks to you and Alison."

"I know, I hope Alison got to Emma in time." Henry said, his voice a little apprehensive, "She wasn't sure exactly what Mother Gothel's powers were like."

"I'm sure we would know by now if Alison had been too hurt," Snow reasoned, "Speaking of Alison, I have a question for you."

"What?" Henry asked as Charming walked over to them. Snow glanced at Charming with a smile before asking, "Why don't you want to meet Fife? I thought you would be happy that she made a friend."

"I am!" Henry protested, "But it's really awkward…"

"Why?"

Henry wrinkled his nose as he said, "He likes her."

"Well, I would hope so. He's her friend," Charming said as he sat down next to them. Henry shook his head hardly as he said, "No… He likes her, likes her. Like in the mushy sense."

"Oh," Snow said surprised as Charming made a face, "How do you know?"

"A friend of a friend of his told me," Henry said, shifting uncomfortable, "And Alison hates mushy stuff and if he tries anything-!"

"Henry, it sounds more like a rumor than the truth," Snow said, "I wouldn't take too much stock into what others say."

"Yeah, especially when that rumor involves the granddaughter of the man who can still turn people into toads," Charming said, his voice sounding pointed.

"And now we know why Charming is squeamish in this matter," Snow teased.

"I just don't want any teenagers getting turned into squashable animals," Charming said, "That's a terrible fate for anyone."

"Yeah," Henry said with a smile, "Yeah it is."


Alison was sitting in Emma's little yellow car as Emma was outside talking on the cell phone. Alison was holding onto something with a down expression as she turned it in her hand. Emma walked around the side of the car, putting her phone into her pocket. Getting in the car, Emma said, "Alright, Granny is busy at the diner. I'll be dropping you off with Kathryn."

Alison nodded softly, obviously not pleased about something. Emma noticed as she began to drive the car away. They were in silence for a while as they drove through the streets. Emma glanced over at Alison as she said, "I'm surprised you're so down. You and Henry single handedly brought two people back together…"

"I almost broke the rule," Alison said, her voice depressed.

Emma looked at Alison surprised, who wasn't looking at her. Alison played with the golden doily as she said, "I almost used magic when fighting the witch. I almost used magic in helping someone in Storybrooke."

"You almost used it to help yourself," Emma argued softly.

"Because I was helping someone else," Alison said miserably, "You know what he'll think."

"Yeah, well," Emma said making a face, "That's my fault, not yours. I shouldn't have asked you to look into the books for me… or I should have been with you while you were doing it."

Emma stopped at a stop light as Alison made a face. Shifting in her seat, Alison admitted, "I'm wondering about that…."

"What do you mean?" Emma asked as Alison showed her the doily. Emma looked at it a moment as Alison said, "The strands… they're pure gold. There's only one person I know that makes gold like this."

"Rumpelstiltskin," Emma said as she heard a beep behind her. Emma made a face as she saw the green light and began to drive again. Alison put the doily down and said sadly, "Mother Gothel said an imp had the curse go in her favor… and she had golden thread…."

"You think she made a deal with him?"

"I know it," Alison said, uncomfortable. "The question is why?"

"I don't know," Emma admitted, "Because he was evil kenevil?"

"I'm just saying that if he knew Rapunzel was here and he knew Mother Gothel was too, then why didn't he say anything?" Alison asked, fear showing in her voice. "Whose side is he really on?"

Emma pulled over, stopping the car. Alison bit her lip as Emma said, "Is that what's really bugging you? Or is it because he's not here to clean up his own mess?"

Alison swallowed as she admitted, "Maybe a little bit of both."

Emma looked at her sympathetically as Alison let out a huge sigh. Shaking her head a little bit, Alison said, "When I was in Wonderland, I knew he was not to be trusted. He was not to be trifled with and he was always searching for me. He wanted my power and everyone told me that he wouldn't care if I had to die to get it. I knew it… and I still cared about him. I still wanted to get to know him… I just knew better than to get involved though…."

"Because he was your grandfather," Emma reasoned, "And you knew he was cursed evil. Alison, you were out of time in Wonderland. If he had found you then, things would have ended up so much worse."

"But what if it's just as bad that I'm with him now?" Alison said, upset. "What if he's made all these deals with me just so he can use my power when he needs it? What if he's still evil and I'm just so blinded I don't see it."

"Alison," Emma said, shocked, "If you're blinded by love, then so is he."

Alison looked at Emma as she said, "You know he's made mistakes… A LOT of mistakes. So has Regina, so have I, and so has everyone else in this town. Mother Gothel… she's just another mistake he made in his long list of deals of shadiness. Maybe he didn't say anything because he was too afraid to hurt you with one more terrible decision he once made."

Emma looked sad as she said, "Our bad decisions always hurt the ones we love and he hates hurting you… Surely you can understand that?"

Alison nodded softly as Emma smiled and said, "Now why don't you head inside? Kathryn's probably worried about you."

Alison looked outside of the car and frown. Looking back at Emma, Alison said, "This is Regina's house."

"I know, Kathryn was here spending time with Regina," Emma said, smiling wryly, "Good luck."

Scoffing, Alison left the car and walked towards the mansion door. Alison tried the door, finding it unlocked. She walked into the house, hearing the noises of Regina and Kathryn in the kitchen. Alison called out, "Kathryn?"

"Alison?!" Kathryn ran into the room, looking worried as Alison walked towards her. Kathryn looked over Alison as she went to remove her coat. Regina followed out of the kitchen as Kathryn said exasperated, "I leave you for one day and you get yourself in all sorts of trouble!"

"It was not the intent," Alison said honestly, "We were only trying to find Rapunzel's prince."

"Well I would appreciate if you're about to get yourself into that kind of trouble, you call me. The one who can actually appear there quickly," scolded Regina.

"I'll have to remember that," Alison said, as Kathryn backed away. She seemed satisfied that Alison wasn't hurt as Kathryn said, "Well dinner is almost ready. Why don't you head upstairs and wash up?"

"Okay," Alison said, finding herself going up the stairs and towards the bathroom. Alison washed her hands, the warm water going over her hands. Alison barely paid attention to what she was doing however, her conversation with Emma and her dream badgering her thoughts. Turning off the faucet, Alison stared into the mirror, seeing her reflection. A reflection… a picture. Alison gasped, wondering why she hadn't thought to try and do it before.

Doorways were for passage… mirrors were for images…

Alison dried her hands and threw the towel down. Gently pushing her hands against the mirror, Alison closed her eyes. She hoped Gold didn't cover the mirrors… or move them. She had been in the Mage of Enchanted Realm's rooms before. Picturing the room and the people inside, Alison waited.

The mirror began to glow as a picture began to form. Alison let go of the mirror, watching the picture before her. The evening glow was in a room with many windows. Near one window stood Belle and Gold. Belle was dressed in a blue dress and her hair in curls. Gold was dressed in his usual flamboyant way, the silk shirt and leather attire suiting him well. Gold was taking Belle in an embrace, smiling as he spoke. Alison couldn't hear what he said, but something in her heart pulled. Belle giggled and leaned in to kiss him. Alison couldn't help but tear up at their happiness, waving the image away as she let her hands fall hard against the counter.

That wasn't fair. It wasn't fair to take a moment of happiness and use it against them. For all she knew, they could have had the worst day of their lives and needed to laugh it off. However, emotions began to tremble through her as she thought of that happiness. They could easily be happy without her. Never come back and live a long peaceful life. Tears sprung to her eyes as she wiped them away, looking back up into the mirror. A yelp escaped her lips when a loud cruel laughter filled her ears.

"Alison? Alison, dinner is ready," Regina called up the stairs. There was no response and Regina frowned in worry. Climbing the stairs, Regina found herself going towards the bathroom. The door was open a decent sized crack, letting the light from inside shine out. Knocking first, Regina opened the door a bit more saying, "Alison are you okay?"

Alison was on the floor, sobbing into her knees.

Regina was on the floor in an instant, trying to get Alison to unwrap herself from the ball she was in. Regina said, "Alison-Alison! What's wrong?"

"Stay away," Alison sobbed profusely, "Stay away…"

Something in Regina's heart told her that it wasn't her she was speaking to. Regina wrapped her arms around Alison, feeling the heat radiating from her. The child was in pain… her magic indicated as much. Regina looked panicked as she shouted, "Kathryn! Kathryn!"

There was a moment before Kathryn could be heard running up the stairs. Kathryn appeared in the doorway, looking confused at first and then extremely concerned. Falling down next to them, Kathryn reached out to Alison saying, "Alison! Regina what happened?"

"I don't know, I found her like this," Regina said, refusing to let of Alison even as Kathryn attempted to get the young girl to look up. The girl kept repeating her stay away words and Regina shook her head asking, "Alison, what do you mean stay away?"

"Regina," Kathryn said, looking at Regina shocked and mortified, "You understood that?"

"What?" Regina said, confused.

"That language," Kathryn said, urgently, "You understand that language?"

"What are you-?" Regina froze, her eyes widening in realization. Despite what she was hearing, Alison was not speaking English. Tightening her hold around the girl, Regina said, "Kathryn, go downstairs and get a clear corked bottle from the cabinet left to the sink. It will be glowing purple if you shake it. I need you to bring it upstairs."

Kathryn ran off without hesitation, leaving Regina alone with Alison. The girl was now curled into her, crying hard as Regina hugged her. The girl spoke again except with different words.

"They won't come back… they won't…I'm not in their happy ending."

Regina gritted her teeth a moment before stroking Alison's hair saying, "They will come back, Alison. He loves you too much not to."


"Alice!"

Alice looked up from the garden to see Cora striding in with a smile on her face. Alice closed her book as she jumped to her feet and curtsied. Cora waved her hand and said, "No need for that my love. I have some news for you."

"What is it?" Alice said, once Cora lifted her from her curtsy. They sat on the bench as Cora said, "I have guests coming tomorrow. They are here to make a business deal and I need to be in meetings."

"Oh," Alice said, slightly put out, "Do you want me to leave for the Hatters again?"

"No, you silly girl!" Cora laughed, "I want you to help me!"

"Really?!" Alice said in excitement.

"Yes," Cora said, "My guest has a daughter. She is quite older than you, but she needs to be kept entertained. Can I trust you to do that while we finalize the deals at hand?"

"Yes, Your Majesty!" Alice said excitedly, "What is her name?"

Cora laughed lightly, reaching out to stroke her hair as she said, "She is the Daughter of the Sultan of Agrabah, Princess Jasmine."

Temperance Tales: Yo! I am so sorry that this took forever. I had this chapter all finished weeks ago and then when I went to start up my computer it gave me the blue screen of death. So I had to rewrite like 20 pages and it was saddening. Anyway! I do not own Once Upon a Time in Anyway, shape, or form. I give credit to the creators and credit to Bizzarieve for all the input! We are coming to a close with this story, that I promise. I'm just wish it wasn't taking me so long to update. Please, read and review (I was happy to see the new reviews as of recently) I do look at them and take them into consideration :)