TemperanceTales: I am so sorry. I'm taking this moment now to address the fact that I disappeared on you. AGAIN. I am sorry. So sorry. I've read the reviews of people who loved this story and then got no update for MONTHS/YEARS! That is suuuchh a horrible feeling. A horrible feeling that I cannot stand and feel horrible that you had to experience. So here is what is going to happen.
1) I am pulling an all nighter to come up with a game plan for the rest of this story. There will be a fourth season (THAT WILL BE UPDATED) and boy is it going to be a season.
2) The third season will 'end' on Chapter 75. It's going to hopefully make up for this travesty of not updating for over a year.
3) I am going to go through my archives for any shorts that I never posted and give you more Alison and Gold interactions. My extended apology.
Disclaimer: I do not own Once Upon a Time or any of the characters. I give full credit to the creators and writers. Storytime dearies!
Chapter Seventy: Alice's Evidence.
"Majesty!"
Cora was standing in her study with her Knaves, going over maps and other documents. Cora looked towards the door with narrowed eyes as the servant bowed lowly.
"What is it?" Cora said coldly, "Speak now before I cut off your tongue for this interruption."
"Lady Alice wishes an audience with your Majesty," he said, staying in his bow. The Knaves exchanged looks. Her prized Knave huffed up like a puffin and Will looked extremely nervous. Cora sighed, irritation showing on her face for a brief moment. But a smile quickly replaced it as she said, "Let her in."
The servant left quickly before letting Alice in. Alice immediately curtsied, keeping her head bowed. Cora walked over to her with an affectionate smile as she said, "Rise, my dearest Pet. What troubles you to trouble me?"
"I'm sorry for the troubling, Majesty." Alice said, coming out of her curtsy. Her blues eyes pierced Cora's brown ones. "I was coming back through the forest. I saw that the Hatter was arrested for treason."
"Yes, he was," Cora said smoothly.
"What crime did he commit against you?" Alice said, her voice betraying no emotion.
"He passed along important information to the enemy!" simpered Cora's favorite knave snootily, "Thanks to the Knave of Spades, he was able to apprehend him before more information was lost."
Alice glanced at the Knave of Spades, who gave her quite the smug sneer in return. Cora glanced back at them and said, "Leave us be, Knaves. I wish to talk to my Pet alone."
The Knaves left, filing out of the room. Will gave Alice a sparing look before disappearing out the door. Alice waited until the door shut tight before speaking again.
"He wouldn't risk doing something so stupid!" Alice protested, "You know he would never dare doing anything against you."
"I'm quite aware," Cora said smoothly, "But laws are laws. The Knave brought forth the accusation and the court will agree."
"Let me prove them wrong," Alice said, "I don't believe the Knave of Spades and I know if I had time-!"
Cora held up her hand, silencing Alice. Alice looked at her with wide eyes as Cora sighed.
"In the Hall of Records," Cora said, "The Knave's report has not been filed away. You have until tonight before the final sentencing to prove the Knave wrong."
Alice eyes lit up as she said, "Thank you, your Majesty."
"Mother," Cora corrected simply, "It is mother when it's just you and me."
"You won't regret this," Alice whispered, kissed her cheek, "I promise, Mother."
Alice curtsied deeply before leaving them room. Alice hurried down the hall, her yellow skirts flitting about her legs. Will, who was hiding behind a statue, jumped out and grabbed her arm. Alice instinctively, whipped her blade out, pushed him into the wall, and held it to his throat.
"Oi, lass! Don't do that!" Will protested, "It's only me!"
"Will!" Alice withdrew her knife as she narrowed his eyes at him, "Don't do that!"
"Sorry," Will said, urgently, "But I needed to talk to you before you went chasing down a fool's errand."
"Saving my friends life is not a fool's errand!" Alice hissed, her eyes narrowed, "Especially when I know that her Majesty is being tricked."
"The Hatter doesn't want you to save him," Will hissed back, grabbing her shoulders, "He begs you to let this be."
"I won't!" Alice said, "I don't care if he's given up. I refuse to let him die!"
Alison let out a shaky sigh, staring at Gold's shop. She had to go in, check for clues that Phantom may have left behind. Walking towards the shop, Alison pulled out her keys from her pocket. Unlocking the door, she slipped inside.
Everything seemed normal. Everything was where it should be and the only things out of place were things knocked over from the scuffle. Alison carefully waved her hand over the mess, the items beginning to glow. They went back to their proper places slowly, Alison examining each of them carefully. Nothing was on them, no residue magic of his, no evidence left behind. It was like she was the only one in this shop. Which she knew wasn't the case. Walking into the back, she saw the last of the items flying to their places. Sighing, she walked over to the cot in the back of his shop and sat down. Pushing her hair back, Alison whispered angrily, "Of course."
There was a ding of the shop's bell.
Alison went tense, staring over at the curtain nervously. Getting to her feet, Alison walked over to it and went to pull a knife from her boot. But a voice that called out made her stop.
"Who's there?" his voice was almost a growl, "I don't know who you are dearie, but you had better-!"
Alison whipped back the curtain, stepping out to see Gold standing there. Her heart soared as she saw him close the shop door. He was back, suit and all.
"Alison," he said surprised, "What-?"
She didn't even give him a time to react. Jumping, she launched herself into his arms. He stumbled a bit, but returned her embrace as she wrapped her arms tight around his neck.
"You're back," she whispered softly, "You're back."
"And you're in my shop," chided Gold, carrying her over to a display case. He gently sat her on it as he asked, "Why are you in my shop?"
"It's a long story," Alison said, tears filling her eyes, "But involves a Phantom nut killing Granny and hurting Kathryn and coming after me for whatever the reason. And now the Queen of Hearts is back-!"
"Hush," Gold said, pressing his finger against her lips. Alison silenced immediately as he wiped her cheeks of tears and said, "Don't fret."
"Don't-," Alison said, incredulously, "You've been gone almost 3 months and your telling me not to fret?"
"But of course," Gold said, "There no reason to."
"H-?" Alison frowned as he stroked her cheek gently, "How can you say that?"
He smiled wryly as he said, "Because I'm here. And no one dares crosses me without paying the price."
Alison sighed softly, leaning into his hand. He pressed his forehead against hers before he whispered again.
"Besides, there are better ways to spend your last breath."
Alison gasped, feeling a sharp burning sensation slice into her stomach. More tears burned into her eyes, slipping down her cheeks. Looking down, she saw the Dark Ones blade sticking out of her gut. His hand was tightly gripping her shoulder, keeping her from falling forward. Blue magic cracks were appearing on her skin as she whimpered. Her skin flushed as she felt her skin go on fire. She let out a whimper with a half squeal on the end as he dug the knife into her more. She almost barely noticed him lean down so his mouth was next to her ear.
"Did you honestly think I would bother coming back? For you, Dearie?" his voice was mocking and cold. Colder than the highest peaks in Antic. Alison whimpered again as he said, "Why would I bother? I have Belle, a chance for a new family and new life."
Alison almost cried as she felt the magic burn violently inside her. The blue magic cracks got worse as Gold's grip was unbearable. His next words came out cold and unmerciful, a tone that made the heat in her freeze all over.
"Why would he care about a worthless little nobody?"
Alison screamed as a red cloud exploded around her. It whipped around like a crazed tornado, yanking her around as she tried to hold her ground. The laughter surrounded her, sending cold chills down her spin. This time she didn't just feel fear. She felt angry. Gritting her teeth, Alison did something that she hadn't done before.
"WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM ME!?"
The cloud dispersed suddenly and abruptly. Alison stood there, shaking with cold fear and bitter rage. Nothing showed up initially, but then Red Death came from the fog. He stood tall, towering over her. He smirked, making her anger ebb away to terror. It wasn't playful or friendly. It was cold and dangerous. He grabbed her chin, his power freezing her to the spot.
"I want," He said lowly, "For you. To wake up. And end the CHEATER like you were SUPPOSED TO!"
Alison gasped, waking up to her room in the Hatter's Mansion. The snow whirled around outside, glowing in the night. Even though she could feel the cold from outside, she was sweating profusely. Throwing back the covers, Alison wandered over to the window shaking. She was afraid of this. Afraid of the past coming back from the shadows to ruin everything. Tears burned in her eyes as she watched the nightly snow fall. Wiping her face, she looked outside to see a face staring at her pleadingly.
A face she knew well.
Sighing, Alison opened the window and took a few steps back. Stepping through, her old friend straightened up with his white hair messed about. He looked at her with the same look as before as he said, "Hello, Alison."
"What do you want, Jack?" Alison said, her arms crossed.
"You're still angry at me," Jack said, miserably.
"Well what do you expect, Jack," Alison said shortly, "I've done everything you've ever asked of me. I've fought wars, kept secrets, and saved you from losing yourself to the Enchantress' poison. And when I needed your help the most, you let Kathryn get tortured and Granny-!"
Her voice caught in her throat, tears slipping from her eyes. Jack immediately wiped her tears away, his own face filled with anguish. She flinched when his fingers brushed against her skin but didn't pull away. Jack swallowed and said, "Believe me if I could jump in to help you at all times, I would. But we are bound by the Rules of the Fates and there are devastating consequences to breaking those rules."
Alison's eyes remained glassy and her body tense, but there was a relenting glimmer in her eyes. He stroked her cheek gently as he said, "I'm sorry. Truly."
Alison didn't respond to that. She didn't have to. Her eyes hardened as she instead she whirled around, running her hands through her hair. Walking away from him, she said, "Jack, I don't have time. Not for this. Not with this Phantom-!"
"I have a way for you to fix Princess Abigail."
His voice made her stop. Turning around, Alison looked at him dubiously as Jack Frost's desperate grey eyes pierced her.
"How," was the only Alison could bring herself to say.
"I can't go into specifics," Jack said, "But in that book of Elemental Magic, there is a spell with vines lining the sides. This spell can help you cure what ails the Princess at this time."
"I've looked at that book forward and backwards," Alison said, frowning, "I don't remember seeing any such page."
"Not all spell books openly reveal all spells," Jack said, hushed, "Some require a bit of magic and clever thinking. Check again."
"I thought you weren't supposed to help me," Alison said, crossing her arms. Her tone was clipped but there was a shadow of worry in her eyes. Jack reached out again, pushing back a lock of hair from her face. He seemed to get lost in thought for a moment before speaking again.
"The Fates think it too cruel to leave someone suffering who has already suffered enough."
Jack dropped his hand before stepping back towards the window. Stepping on the sill, Jack glanced back with a solemn expression. Alison almost gasped when she saw the raw misery in his eyes but could say nothing as he disappeared into the snow. Alison went over to the window but found he had already disappeared. Alison sighed as she reached up and shut the window tight. Turning back around, she yelped in surprise, not expecting the person that was sitting on her bed.
"So, have we forgiven Jack Frost?" Jefferson asked, sitting on the bed.
"Jefferson," Alison said exasperated, rubbing her collarbone nervously, "Don't scare me like that."
"Then pay better attention," he huffed, "It's not my fault that your head is buried in the sand."
"My head is not buried in sand," Alison collapsed onto the bed, staring up at the ceiling, "It's fogged with failure if anything."
"Don't say that," Jefferson scolded, staring down at her firmly, "You saved the mermaid. You saved your friends from that unsavory octopus."
"Yeah, and I failed to save Kathryn, heal Granny, and I can't get through to Gold or Belle or any of the Mages," Alison said, bitterly and angrily, "I'm doing a bang up job."
"For someone that is not supposed to be using magic to help people in Storybrooke, I'd say you are doing a bang up job," Jefferson reassured, "It's not easy solving problems with your hands tied behind your back."
Jefferson turned and laid down so he was laying next to her. The pair of them stared at the ceiling as Alison said, "Even if I could, I wouldn't even know where to begin. Phantom repressed my magic and he did it without breaking a sweat."
"A powerful enemy for sure," Jefferson exhaled, "But we've never defeated an enemy overnight. We will find his weak spot soon."
The bed began to shake as Alison felt the house begin to quake. Jefferson grabbed her as she sat up, staring wildly around the room. The picture frames and nick-knacks on the dressers began to shake. Alison nearly jumped out of her skin when she felt a pulse run through her and the room. The rumbling was slowly to stop, and when it finally did, Alison's head was hurting. Jefferson held her close, kissing the top of her head as she said, "I think we have bigger problems than just Phantom. We need two more ingredients and one that I'm afraid to find out what it is."
"And I'm sure you will figure this out," Jefferson said. He caught her chin in his hand, making her look up at him. His eyes were steel, firm in his resolve as he said, "But not alone. Not without the hare, the rabbit, or me."
"What? Not Chesshire?" Alison teased.
"We all know he's lazy and cares only about napping till noon," Jefferson muttered.
"Hatter!" Alison playfully scolded.
"Alison," Jefferson's voice rumbled sternly, "I'm serious. No more running off without me. I don't want to see you hurt."
Alison's eyes softened, looking at the Hatter with gentle eyes. Nodding softly, she murmured, "I promise Hatter. So as long as you don't complain."
Jefferson huffed as he said, "Only if you don't give me reason to, Laddie."
"Keep calling me Laddie and I'll give you a reason."
Alison shrieked as he tickled her sides. Her giggles and laughter filled the room, causing Jefferson to smirk triumphantly. He finally stopped and patted her pillows saying, "Back to sleep with you. I won't be the reason you get no rest tonight."
"And I'm going to thump you!" Alison whacked him with her pillow. "Mad Hatter."
He caught it and shoved it playfully back at her. She couldn't help but let out a giggle as she laid back on the bed. Jefferson got up and walked over to the door. He glanced back and said, "Get some rest. I'm sure Regina is going to want to train with you tomorrow and she will have no patience for sleepy heads."
Jefferson left her, closing the door behind her. He let out a big shaky sigh, closing his eyes a moment to reel himself in. A family voice reached his ears, pleasant and jovial in nature.
"Playful thing isn't she?"
Jefferson glanced over to see Chess leaning against the hallway wall. He held a mug in his hands, watching Jefferson with his Cheshire cat grin. Jefferson turned to him completely, watching him with questioning eyes.
"When she feels like it," Jefferson said, "Did you-?"
"I've just peeked in on the other girls. They are asleep." Chess interrupted, "No ghouls, no ghosts, no villains, just peaceful sleeping friends."
"Good," Jefferson sighed, "Good…Better to be safe than sorry."
Chesshire nodded absentmindedly. He fiddled with the string to the tea bag, staring into the contents of the mug. Jefferson turned to close the curtains on the hallway window, not ready for what Chesshire said next.
"It's strange, isn't it," Chess said, distracted. "How close those two have become."
"Don't you mean three, Chess?" Jefferson corrected.
"Well yes, three if you count Ava," Chesshire said, "But especially your little Grace and my little Alison."
"Chesshire," Jefferson said, a hint of warning in his voice. Any traces of his smile that had once been on his face vanished.
"I'm just saying," he said simply, dipping the tea bag several times, "That fate is a funny thing. To bring those two together when they were-."
"Chesshire, for all the Mage's blood in you, shut up!" Jefferson seethed, grabbing him by the scruff of his collar. Or at least tried to. Chesshire disappeared moments before, appearing further down the hall. Chesshire looked at him with an amused expression as he said, "Well. You haven't said that to me in a long time."
"Well you haven't given me cause to, you mouthy cat!" Jefferson said, still angry, "We agreed-!"
"To not say anything, I know," Chesshire said gently, "But old friend, someone is trying to drive a wedge between Alison and the rest of the world. I can feel it. Her heart is vulnerable, vulnerable enough for enemies to poke at old wounds and make new."
Chesshire looked at Jefferson pointedly as he said, "Hiding this secret is not going to help either of them."
"It's not going to help them to know it," Jefferson said, miserably. Leaning against the wall, Jefferson rubbed his eyes as if trying to rid himself of pain. Chesshire watched his friend with sympathy as he said, "Friend, I hate that you have to be the one that carries this burden. After all, you aren't even the one who's at fault. But we can't lose my companion. I can't. Not to anyone or anything."
"You won't," Jefferson sighed, "Because in this, my friend, you are blameless. Even if she knew you knew the truth, Alison couldn't breathe without you. But the same could not be said for me."
Jefferson walked down the hall muttered under his breath, "We can't tell them. Not until she's ready."
Ava stood quietly around the corner, her eyes narrowed and her heart beating fast. What did they mean? What secret were they concealing? Ava didn't let these swirling questions freeze her, however, and she crept back to an empty bedroom to wonder what they were hiding.
And if she was going to do something about it.
The owl hooted from up above, making the man stare up in wary.
The wind blew low and cold, but the man didn't seem to care. The only thing he seemed to care about was that he wasn't followed. When had made sure that he hadn't, he continued through the brush slow and steady. She should be close, he was almost to the designated spot. The breeze shuffled the leaves, the sound almost blocking a voice that he was familiar with.
"Avenant."
He turned around, seeing her stand behind him in her proud glory. Avenant gazed coldly at her as he said, "Were you followed, Maleficent?"
"No," Maleficent said, her green eyes staring at him cautiously. "I hate the insinuation that I would be so careless."
"I'm being cautious," Avenant said, "I've already had one set back with a business partner. I don't need another one."
"Mmm, the Queen of Hearts," Maleficent said, "She's become quite the problem, that partner of yours."
"She was a means to an end," Avenant said, as they continued to walk, "One that ensured the success of our mission. After all, she was able to resurrect you from your ashen state."
"True, but I feel she has her own agenda and I hate how demeaning she is," Maleficent said, "Especially for the little Elemental user running around Storybrooke."
"Oh, I wouldn't worry about that," Avenant said dismissively, "She has a Fate that is looming to destroy her at any given moment. I'm more concerned about getting the Mage to do what we want. She is very strong willed and clever."
Maleficent stopped, purposefully taking her staff and stabbing it into the ground in front of him. He stopped, staring at her with his cold demeanor. She smiled alluringly as she said, "Isn't that what your special skills are for? To sway her heart?"
"My skills will only be used if she resists." Avenant said, curtly. He stepped around the staff to keep moving along the night. "It will be much preferred if she joins us willingly."
"Well that is unlikely with your Phantom running around terrorizing her," Maleficent said, coolly, "He's made her quite angry."
"Yes," Avenant said, his voice hushed as he watched the tree branches sway, "Angry and heartbroken. I need her that way for the moment."
Maleficent glanced at him in disbelief as Avenant said, "Worry not, Maleficent. The Phantom will not wreck any of our plans. If anything, he will provide the perfect test for the little mage."
David stood in the town hall with a group of rulers. A large table was set up at the front of the room to accommodate everyone. Some of the lords and ladies he did not know well, but there were a few that he did. Thomas was chatting comfortably with a group of lords. Frederick was making his way through the crowd, greeting a few of the rulers before stopping by David.
"I think everyone is here that is going to be here." Frederick said, glancing around the room.
"I think so," David said, "I see Midas hasn't come."
"He's taking a step back," Frederick said, "Especially with Abigail not recovering as quickly."
"Does she still not remember?" David asked, concerned.
"She remembers more." Frederick said, slowly. The pain in his eyes was evident. "But just when Midas and I think she's ready to handle more, she reverts back to having screaming fits and illness."
"Have you tried Mother Superior or any of the other fairies to help you?" David asked.
"They've tried," Frederick said, "But nothing works. We even have Regina trying to come up with a cure and she hasn't had much success."
"I'm so sorry," David said miserably, "I wish there was something more we could do."
"I have faith. She just needs time will heal." Frederick said, speaking as if he was trying to convince himself more than David. "Speaking of which, how is Alison? We know that Regina has been taking care of her but we haven't had a chance to come check on her-."
"Well, it be honest, she's been better," David said, frowning, "Gold and Belle still haven't come back and with Kathryn gone and Granny dead, she's kind of kept to herself."
Frederick looked aghast before a touch of anger hit his eyes. David waited patiently for Frederick to come to terms with his thoughts.
"We don't want to keep her from Abigail," Frederick said aghast, "But she screams, she screams and thrashes so violently when seeing Alison. You didn't see Alison's face, Charming, it broke her heart into a million pieces."
"I did see her face," Charming said sadly, "And I saw how it affected her. But you also have to be careful. Rumors are already flying around-."
"What rumors?" Frederick asked sharply.
"That Midas doesn't want Alison and Kathryn together," David said, quietly, "It's not surprising considering all the arguments they've had."
"Arguments that are private!" Frederick almost hissed, "For the sake of not reaching Alison's ears! Midas doesn't want to hurt her-!"
"I know," David said, grasping the knights shoulder, "But it was hurting her all the same, as well as Kathryn from what I heard."
"Shall we start this meeting?"
David and Frederick looked over to see an older gentleman looking around. His hair was grey and black, his grey eyes staring around sharply. In another life he was Lord Ardor, Duke of the Northern Kingdoms. In this life, he was one of the Board of Education members. Adjusting his glasses he said, "I'm sure we have other things we must get done, especially on a fine Saturday morning like this."
"Agreed," David agreed, "Let's begin."
Everyone went to a sit at the table, murmuring quietly. David sat by Frederick, who looked troubled and very deep in thought. Thomas sat a couple of seats away, glancing at them before turning his attention back to Lord Ardor. He took a seat at the end of the table saying, "Well now we have everyone here, we can get down to business."
"As we all know," he said, "We are in desperate need of a new mayor to fill the void until we can return to the Enchanted Forest. The towns people have voted and the end result was leaving the choosing of the new mayor up to this council. It is here we will decide on a new mayor that will be the figure head of the council."
"But not all of the royals are here," protested one of the women. Her hair was dark and streaked with grey. David had seen her before but her name was not coming to him. "For example, I don't see Queen Snow, Midas, or even High Lord Casablanca."
"I assure you Queen Elise, we have taken care to offer all the royals' equal opportunity," Prince Thomas interjected, "There are many like my father and your brothers who wished to step back from ruling, at least until we have found a way back. Midas has chosen to appoint Frederick as his representative for his kingdom-."
"And I am Snow's," David said, "She wants to take a step back to spend time with family but wants there to be a voice for our kingdom."
Elise almost scoffed but said nothing else. David frowned in disapproval, unsure of what to make of her reaction. Another man, one known as Lord Farrow, said, "And what of Lord Casablanca? He would have been best choice for the candidate as mayor."
"Oh really?" a young lord from the eastern kingdoms, "What makes you say that?"
"Because, Lord Orville, High Lord Casablanca has the most experience and a kingdom that has prospered for all his years of ruling," An elder woman (Lady Terese if David recalled correctly) scoffed, "He is not know as King of the North for nothing!"
"Lord Casablanca has given many years to ruling and many sacrifices. After consulting with him, he has appointed me to speak for the Northern Lords," Lord Ardor said, shortly, "Look, we can make small talk all day but we must make progress here today. We need to nominate candidates and put them to a vote. Do we have any nominations?"
"I nominate Prince Charming," Thomas said clearly and quickly. David looked surprised as Thomas continued, "He has come to aid of other kingdoms as well as leading a war against the Evil Queen."
"Who ended up cursing us to this Land without Magic," Lord Farrow said coldly.
"Only to be thwarted by the savior because of Charming and Snow's ultimate sacrifice," Frederick retorted, "They gave up raising their only child so that we may all be free of the Evil Queen's curse!"
"And yet she still walks free," Lord Farrow said, "As well as Rumpelstiltskin."
"Rumpelstiltskin has the power of the Mage," Lady Elise said, "He could wipe us from existence with one flick of his finger. Besides, it's not like you've done anything to imprison him, Lord Farrow."
"Why would I?" Lord Farrow said shortly, "Rumpelstilksin was barred from the North nearly 50 years past. He's not my concern."
"And it's not theirs either," Lady Elise said smoothly.
"Regardless, Queen Snow made a deal with Rumpelstilskin and Evil Queen," Lord Ardor said, shortly, "If they assisted in defeating the Enchantress, they would be free to live their lives in peace. Unless one of you wants to wage war with the Dark One turned Mage or the Powerful Sorceress Queen, be my guest. Until then, does anyone second David's nomination?"
"I do," Frederick said clearly.
"Any other nominations?" Lord Ardor asked.
"I nominate Lord Farrow," Lord Orville said confidently.
"I second that nomination," another lord said quickly. Lord Farrow had a smug look slide onto his face, staring haughtily around the table. David felt a surge of anger. He was exactly the type of royal that David hated: arrogant and high handed. But now wasn't the time to confront him. Lord Ardor sighed lightly before shuffling his papers.
"Any other nominations?" Lord Ardor asked.
No one else at the table spoke, some shifting and looking from face to face. Lord Ardor waited another moment before saying, "Alright, then write your vote on the paper in front of you. When you leave the room, drop it in the box. My secretary and I will tally the votes and we will announce it tomorrow at the Holiday Festival. I think it will be a wonderful way to start of the New Year."
David glanced at Lord Farrows as everyone settles in, writing their votes on the small slips of paper. He looked just as smug, a glint of victory in his eyes as he wrote his down. David wasn't typically a prideful, spiteful person. But he wanted nothing more than to wipe that smug look off his face. Lord Ardor passed off the votes to a man sitting next to him and said, "Well now that we have that taken care of. We should address the next big concern. How do we get back to the Enchanted Forest?"
"I'm not sure," Lady Terese said with a sigh, "My sages have already told me they are as clueless as to how to get back. With the Master gone, I fear we may be at a disadvantage."
"It doesn't help that the former Dark One has taken his place," grumbled Lord Farrow.
"What about that other mage?" Queen Elise said suddenly, her eyes curiously looking at David, "The Mage of Wonderland?"
"Her?" scoffed Lord Farrow, "She's nothing but a naïve child!"
"I would not underestimate her," Lord Ardor mused, "She's known for being quite clever and has a nation that is loyal. She has deals with several lords in the Southern and Eastern Kingdoms that ensure we have enough produce for our people. They say she is a force to be reckoned with."
"I heard from my Sages she was also the Master's apprentice," Lady Terese mused, "Perhaps she might know something."
"Surely Charming could ask her," Queen Elise said eagerly (more eager than Charming would have liked), "She did seem willing to help us at the meeting. And your daughter's son is good friends with her, no?"
"Yes," Charming said with a sigh, "She is. I can talk and see what she knows."
"Excellent," Lady Terese said, "Then we will reconvene after the Holiday Festival?"
"Agreed," Lord Ardor said, "I think we all have earned some time with family and friends."
There was a murmur of agreement. Everyone began to stand up, getting themselves ready to go. Charming stood up, Frederick getting up with him. Lord Farrows gave David a sneering look before making his way out of the room. David gritted his teeth, glaring as the man left. Frederick placed a hand on his shoulder saying, "Careful. Lord Farrows is not liked-."
"Massive understatement," Thomas said under his breath, making his way around them.
"But he has a lot of power and pull," Frederick said, "Outwardly fighting him is not going to get you anywhere."
"I've got no intention of fighting with him," Charming said, "It seems he more or less has a problem with me."
"Just ignore it," Frederick said, "Don't let him get to you."
"Yeah, well now we have another problem. One we can't ignore," Charming said quietly to Frederick, "I was really hoping they wouldn't ask about Alison."
"Why?" Frederick asked, "Surely she has magic to help."
"She does, but Gold made her promise not to use magic to help," David said as he and Frederick slowly made their way out. "He didn't want her putting her in harm's way anymore."
"Well to be fair, he's not exactly here to protect her," Frederick said, "And with the town slowly starting to disappear, we need all the help we can get. Promise or no promise."
David grimaced. It was all fine to say that now. But if Gold ever came back and found out the council backed her into a corner, there was going to be hell to pay.
BOOM
Emma yelped as her spell exploded in her face. It sent her flying backwards into the tree, smashing her back into the old peeling bark. Groaning, Emma rubbed her head, trying to get rid of the spots in her vision. She didn't have long though before she heard Regina's barking voice.
"What was that?! I told you to focus!"
"I did," Emma said, gritting her teeth as she rubbed her eyes, "If I focus anymore, I'll be going cross eyed!"
"If you were focusing, you would have mastered this spell by now!" Regina snapped, her eyes fuming as Emma struggled to her feet. Emma glared at Regina, brushing off her pants before straightening.
"Okay, Majesty, that still doesn't change that I haven't," Emma said, her sarcastic nature shining through, "And me mastering this spell is not going to change that your mother the Queen of Hearts just sailed into town on Captain Hooks ship."
"No but it will make sure that you are ready when my witch of a mother decides to come kill us all!" Regina snapped, glowering in her direction.
"Alright, I don't think the plan is to kill us all. If that was the plan, I feel like she would have done that already," Emma said, walking towards Regina.
"You have no idea just how idiotic that sounds," Regina said, her anger having more hints of hysteria.
"I'm just saying screaming at me in the middle of the woods is not going to help," Emma said, her voice more comforting. She reached out to put her hand on her shoulder. Regina's anger seemed to melt, her brown eyes showing her vulnerability. Emma squeezed her shoulder as she said, "We will figure out what she's up to. I promise you."
Regina looked at her warily when a phone call interrupted the moment. Emma pulled her hand away, crossing her arms loosely. Regina's walls snapped up as she yanked her phone out of her pocket. Seeing the number across the screen, Regina scoffed saying, "Now Little Miss Mage is calling me?"
"Probably because she's in trouble," Emma said, rolling her eyes as she looked around, "How much you want to bet she's on Captain Hook's ship?"
"That's not funny." Regina said, shooting Emma a look. Regina clicked the green button on her phone, putting the phone on speaker and saying sharply, "You're late."
"And you're grouchy. Where is it?"
"Where is what?" Regina asked, shortly.
"Where is the book Regina? I left it on the table and now it's not there so where did you move it?!"
"The bo- Wait, are you in my house?!" Regina demanded.
"Of course, I'm in your house! I need the book!"
"Why- How are you in my house?!" Regina said in disbelief as Emma grinned, snickers almost bubbling out of her.
"How else do you get in a house? I came through the door and I walked in."
Emma's snort couldn't be stopped. Regina was not amused as she said, "I locked everything up! With locks and keys and powerful spells!"
"And I unlocked everything! With a pick and some patience and a spell diffuser! Now where is the book!?"
"The book is with me for safe keeping, why are you looking for it? You're supposed to be here training!" Regina said, her brows furrowed in confusion.
"Because Jack Frost says there is a spell in there that could help fix Kathryn!"
Regina and Emma exchanged alarmed looks when Regina waved her hands up in the air. Moments later, they were standing in Regina's living room. Alison was standing by the entry way, dressed in a plaid jacket, skinny jeans, and boots. Spinning around, the girl hung up her phone and pocketed away saying, "You could have just waited in the clearing."
"What spell?" Regina demanded, "We combed that book and many others for a solution for Kathryn only to find nothing!"
"Jack said it's hidden in the book," Alison said, "It's not written in words."
There were footsteps as Chesshire's voice called out, "The book isn't upstairs. Are you sure it's here?"
"You let the Cheshire Cat into my house?!" Regina said, her eyes glowering.
"He followed me into the house," Alison said shrugging. Emma was trying her very hardest not to laugh as Chess came into view. He grinned at them as he said, "Well hello, Majesty. Savior."
"Hey Chess," Emma said, smiling friendly, "How have you been?"
"He's fine and he is going," Regina said firmly. Chess rolled his eyes playfully as he looked at Alison. Alison said, smiling, "Go help Jefferson with his little project?"
"If you wish it," Chess said, his eyes sparkling at her mischievously. He leaned in, kissing her cheek before disappearing into smoke. Regina rolled her eyes as Emma snickered saying, "He still very sweet on you."
"He's like that to eve-ry-one!" Alison scowled.
"Getting back on track!" Regina interrupted loudly. She waved her hand and the book appeared on the table. Regina gave Alison a pointed look, waving her hand in the direction of the book. "Spell. Show me."
Alison grabbed the book and walked towards the kitchen with it. Regina and Emma followed her, watching as she set the book on the counter, shuffling through the pages. Emma stood on the other side of the counter saying, "So hang on. You're talking to Jack Frost again?"
"She wasn't talking to Jack Frost?" Regina asked, as Alison flipped through the pages quickly.
"No, Henry said she was pissed off that Jack Frost didn't really help with the whole Phantom attacking the people she cares about," Emma said.
"Henry's got a big mouth," Alison said, not even looking up from her task, "Page with Vines, where is it?!"
"Page with vines?" Regina asked, frowning, "There wasn't a page with vines."
"That's what I said-!"
There was a swooshing sound and the book pages flipped violently out of control. Alison reeled back a bit, watching the pages go crazy. It abruptly stopped in the center of the book. There were spells written on it for sure. Alison touched the page, frowning as she examined it. Emma and Regina watched with confused faces as Emma said, "Okay, that's weird. There's not even vin-!"
Alison felt a pulse shoot through her fingers, her magic being drawn to the page. Furrowing her brows, Alison's hand began to glow. Alison closed her eyes, feeling the magic pool around her hand. The world fell away as she felt it move from her hand into the book.
It was like a whole new world exploded in her brain.
The book's magic was an endless tangle of vines that seem to stem from the core of the book. It's memory and information surged through her mind. The power burned through her veins as it searched for her wants, her needs, her desires…
Until it found what it was looking for.
The surge that followed made everything go dark.
"Kid! KID!"
"Alison! Alison, can you hear me?!"
Alison groaned, the blackness turning to light that turned to colors that turned to shapes. Soon, Emma and Regina could be seen clearly even though her body still felt in a daze. She was flat on the kitchen floor staring up at them. Regina stroked her hair back as Emma asked stricken, "Are you alright?"
"Whoa," Alison said, her head lolling to the side, "That was wicked intense."
"What was? What just happened?!" Emma asked, her voice filled with panic.
"There was more," Alison said, trying to get up. She winced as she felt pain in the back of her head. Regina helped her sit up as Alison continued, "There was so much more in the book..."
"Much more?" Emma asked baffled.
"There must be magical underlayers to the book," Regina said, glancing at the counter, "Ones that only allow an elemental magic user to see."
"Then how are we going to find this spell?! She nearly went into convulsions!"
"We don't have to look again," Alison murmured, rubbing her temple. "I saw the spell we need."
"You did?" Regina's voice sounded hopeful.
"Yeah, I did." Alison said, "It's a spell that allows the caster to dive into the subconscious of an injured mind to heal it."
"Then we have it!" Regina said, her voice almost excited, "I can use that spell and go in to heal her mind-!"
"No," Alison said, her own voice sounding a little hollow, "There is a catch. While you could use your healing powers to heal her, the spell to get in her mind to begin with you can't. It's an Elemental Blood Spell. Which means-"
"Only an Elemental User can use it," Emma said, her face falling. Regina looked at her surprised, raising a brow as Emma scowled. "What? I'm starting to get the hang of how this stuff works."
"Can you?"
Both adults nearly jumped out of their skins to see Frederick standing in the doorway. Emma stood up as Regina helped Alison up muttering, "Why is everyone just waltzing into my house?"
"Can you use the spell to help Abigail?"
"I could," Alison grasped the counter to support herself, "I would just need a healing potion of sorts. I can't do that myself."
"I can whip up a strong one," Regina said, slowly, "But…"
"Your grandfather," Emma said, looking at Alison worried, "He said no magic…"
Alison looked at Emma briefly before looking over at Frederick. His eyes were pleading, begging for the sanity, the life of the woman he loved. The woman he swore to honor, love and protect…
The woman that she loved just as much.
"A price I'm just going to have to pay," Alison said, her voice almost a whisper, "I'll do it."
"David, are you listening?"
David, who had been staring down at his mug of coffee, looked up to see Snow staring at him with raised brows. He sighed as he spun the mug slowly in his hand.
"Sorry, I spaced out," David said, "What about the new school year?"
"The Principal has brought a new policy to the Board of Education about stopping the uniforms," Snow said, "He's trying to encourage students to show their unique personalities. Avenant wasn't at all pleased, saying that uniforms made it easier to enforce dress codes and it ended up a whole argument-!"
"Sounds like an eventful teacher's meeting," David said.
"It was," Snow said with a smile, "I can't wait for the school year to start back up."
David smiled at her weakly before looking back down at his coffee. Snow's smile faded as she made her way around the counter and rested her hands on his shoulders. After rubbing them comfortingly, Snow said, "David what's wrong? You seem… bothered."
"What? Oh," David said, "It's just this meeting with the other Nobles that's got me rattled."
"I see," Snow said, happily, "So this has something to do with you getting nominated for Mayor?"
David looked at Snow with a knowing smile as Snow said cheekily, "A little bird told me."
"Yeah, we can thank Frederick and Thomas for that," David sighed, the smile vanishing, "Lord Farrows wasn't too pleased about it, nor Queen Elise."
"Well Lord Farrows doesn't like anything!" Snow said, rolling her eyes, "And Queen Elise can be a little… prickly. Besides, I think this would be good for the town."
"Really? Because half the council thinks that the job would be better suited to anyone else," David muttered, bitterly, "The only reason I'm there is because I'm married to you. If it wasn't for that, they wouldn't even nod in my sheppardly direction…"
"David that's nonsense!" Snow said firmly, "You have proven yourself to this kingdom a hundred times over! No one is more worthy than you."
"Really? Because if this Lord Casablanca character was on the board, everyone would have voted for him," David said, dejectedly. Snow turned his head, so he was looking back up at her.
"Lord Casablanca is a noble leader," Snow said, "One that has given much to protect his people. But he doesn't want that role now. He's had enough."
"You know him?" David asked curiously.
"I knew him from my childhood," Snow said, smiling softly, "We've known each other a long time. Long enough to know that when he says he needs a break, he isn't going to change his mind. All the more reason to have a leader that cares deeply for the people in this town. And that isn't going to come from a noble who was born with a silver spoon in his mouth."
Snow kissed him serenely as she said, "You can do this, David. I believe in you."
"I know you do," David said, smiling warmly. He stood up and kissed her soundly. They embraced each other a while before they parted. Snow looked up to see David's warmness gone and a bitter look back on his face.
"But we still have another problem," David said, bitterly, "The council wants me to ask Alison for help getting back home. They don't want Gold to, and I don't think some of them are going to care that she's made a promise."
"But Emma and Regina are working on it. Operation Jumper-!"
"I know, but we can't tell them that! We need to keep that secret so no other villain can ruin that," David said, "Regina and Gold may not be a problem anymore, but that doesn't mean we don't have other enemies. Especially now that Regina's mother is here and other dark forces are lurking in the shadows. But the council is expecting me to ask her and if Lord Farrows becomes mayor…"
Snow swallowed, her face paling a bit as Charming said gravely, "I don't want to think about what they'll do if she says no. And I don't even want to know what Gold will do if he comes back to that."
Snow bit her lip before whispering softly, "We'll just have to hope you win then."
The vase crashed against the wall, shattering to pieces.
"Hare!"
Grace winced as she heard her father yell at the March Hare. Henry and she were sitting on the sofa in the hidden room at their home base, combing through books. There were piles of books and journals piled around the room just waiting to be read through. The Hare was bouncing from wall to wall, chattering a mile a minute as Jefferson angrily swept up the fragments of the vase laying on the floor. Ava was flipping through the pages a book at the desk, her mind looking like she was miles away. Nick was digging through a closet, going through boxes. Grace slammed her book shut as she said, "This is starting to feel pointless!"
"We can't give up!" Henry said, turning the page in the book. "The answer to defeating Phantom is in here, I know it!"
"How do you know that?" Grace asked, giving him a side eye. Henry made a face, as if pondering deeply on how to answer. Grace noticed the unusual glint in his eyes as he said, "I can just feel it… I can't explain it. I just know the answer is somewhere here."
"Then we'll keep looking," Grace said with a sigh, "I just don't like just sitting here when Alison is out there trying to help Kathryn."
"We'd just be sitting there too, it's not like Emma and Regina are performing the spell," Jefferson said, impatiently sweeping up the shards, "We are better off here looking for an answer. If Phantom attacks, Alison won't have enough magic to defend herself or anyone else."
"I know, it just doesn't feel like we are being helpful," Grace sighed, looking over at her other friend, "Right Ava?"
"Mmph, yeah," Ava said, her voice sounding rather flat. Henry and Grace exchanged looks before she got off the seat. Grace walked over to her friend as she said, "Ava, are you okay?"
"What? Yeah," Ava said, distantly. She gave a quick glance over at Jefferson before turning her attention back to her book, "I'm fine."
"You don't seem fine," Grace said as Ava turned the page again. Starting at the notes, Ava suddenly leaned back with a serious look on her face.
"What if we are looking at this the wrong way," Ava said, suddenly, "We are looking for a magical solution or secret to this problem. What if we shouldn't be?"
Ava shut the book as Henry asked, "What do you mean?"
"Think about it," Ava said, standing up, "We keep looking for a way to overpower this dude with magic. What if we just need a way to make his magic useless."
"You mean like squid ink," Henry said, bolting to his feet as Jefferson said to look thoughtful, "Like the way they imprisoned Rumpelstiltskin!"
"No, we thought of that. There isn't enough squid ink here for that," Jefferson sighed, "We also don't have an item here that would be strong enough to contain him."
"Maybe not a magical item," Ava said, seriously, "But what about an Anti-Magic item? I read some of these journals, Baelfire experiment with a lot of anti-magic. He powered this whole house off of it! Surely he has some kind of weapon we could use!"
"You mean something like this?"
Everyone turned to see Nick holding a rather strange telescope looking object. He pushed forward a box that seemed have even more strange items as he stepped closer to them.
"There's a whole bunch of weird stuff in here," Nick said, examining curiously.
Jefferson broke out into grin as the other children had hopeful excited glances. Ava looked triumphant as she said, rolling up her sleeves, "I think we have some experimenting to do."
"What are we waiting on?"
Alison sat in the hospital room, drawing the large swirling symbol on the floor with chalk. Kathryn was sedated, sleeping somewhat peacefully in the bed. There were dark circles under her eyes and her skin was unusually grey. Frederick sat by her side faithfully, holding her hand tightly. Alison turned her attention back to her work as she answered his question.
"Regina. She has to brew a potion that is going to be strong enough to heal her mind."
"Haven't we tried that already?"
"We tried to heal her body, but the problem isn't in her body. It's in her mind," Alison said, precisely drawing a ruin within a circle. "And until now we haven't had a way to access that. Now we do."
Frederick nodded softly. He watched Alison finished her task and put the chalk on the table. She looked deep in thought, staring at her handwork. Squeezing Kathryn's hand, he said, "I'm sorry…"
"What?" Alison said, looking at Frederick surprised.
"I'm sorry," Frederick repeated, sincerely, "I know what I'm asking you to do is making you go against Gold. That can't be easy."
"No," Alison said, her voice laced with misery, "But I can't let Kathryn stay like this. I can't."
Alison looked at him. Her eyes were haunted with the trouble she was about to land herself in but there was also steel determination. He found himself nodding softly, understanding that her desire to heal Kathryn was as deep as her own. He looked back at Kathryn, who was still sleeping peacefully. Alison stood up as Frederick did the same saying, "I'm going to go see where Emma and Regina are at with the potion. I'll be back in a bit."
Frederick leaned over to kiss Kathryn's forehead before leaving the room. Alison took a breath before looking over at the bed. Walking over her handiwork carefully, Alison made it to Kathryn's side. Squeezing her hand, Alison said softly, "I'm sorry. I'm sorry I didn't do a good job protecting you. But I am going to fix this. I promise."
Alison leaned down to press a small kiss to her forehead. Pulling away, Alison watched the woman lay there so still. She needed to fix this. She just had to. Pressing the tip of her pointer and middle finger to Kathryn's forehead, Alison watched a mark similar to the one on the floor appear.
"Are you Alison Kinsleigh?"
Alison's head whipped upwards, almost straining her neck. A woman stood in the doorway, her curly hair flowing freely. Her eyes were sharp, but not entirely unfriendly. She had a smile on her face, one that did not seem fake or forced. She was dressed in a blush pink shirt, grey pin skirt, and matching heels. Alison rounded the bed slowly, asking rather pointed, "Who are you? And how do you know my name when I don't know yours?"
"Because your reputation precedes you Magesteria," She said, taking a couple steps into the room. Alison met her part of the way, her eyes wary and her hands free in case she wasn't friendly. The woman didn't seem bothered as she extended her hands saying, "My name is Elise. I was Queen of one of the Eastern kingdoms."
"Ah," Alison said, shaking her hand briefly while raking her brain for any stories regarding the Eastern Kingdoms. "Nice to meet you, Majesty."
"Elise," she said, her smile never faultering, "Just Elise here. I bet your probably wondering why I'm looking for you."
"It did cross my mind," Alison said, crossing her arms.
"I'm guessing Charming hasn't talk to you yet?" Queen Elise said, "And I'm assuming he didn't tell you that we nobles had a meeting today either."
"No," Alison said, frowning a bit, "But then again, I'm not from the Enchanted Forest realm."
"Still, it would have been nice had he been courteous to invite you," Queen Elise said, watching her intently, "Especially since you were brought up during it."
"Oh?" Alison asked, narrowing her eyes a bit, "Why?"
"We nobles know you and the Master were close," she flicked her curly hair out of her face as she continued on, "We were hopefully that in the absence of our Mages and in our dire circumstances that you would be helpful to getting us back to our world."
"I'm already working with the Savior to find a way," Alison said quickly, "And besides, your Mages will be back soon I'm sure."
"Ah, yes, I'm sure they will," Queen Elise said, her voice sounding quite contradictory to what she was saying, "But it never hurts to have all the help we can get."
Alison smiled, a smile she had well-rehearsed when she lived in the Queen's castle. One that seemed sweet and sincere but in reality, Alison was feeling particularly annoyed or angered. Straightening up, Alison said, "Do you know what the Council Laws of Mages are, Queen Elise?"
"I'm afraid not, Magesteria," Queen Elise said, her voice cautious, "But I feel you are about to tell me."
"I won't dare bore you with them all, they can be quite extensive and even the Master got bored when reading them all," Alison said, steadily, "But one that we are all clear on and that the powers above enforce without fail is 3rd Rule of the Council Laws is that no Mages shall ever interfere with another Mages territory… do you know what happened to the last Mages that did that?"
"No, Magesteria," Queen Elise said softly, "I do not."
"War," Alison said, her voice steel, "A war that nearly ripped worlds apart and on behalf of my world and my people, that is not a rule I ever intend on breaking."
"I meant no disrespect, Magesteria," Queen Elise said sincerely, "I just want a way for my Kingdom to get home."
"And I can assure you that I am helping Emma to the fullest extent that I can," Alison said, "But do know that you are not the only Queen who has people to worry about."
"Elise!"
Elise and Alison turned to see Frederick standing in the doorway. He looked exasperated and slightly angered. Elise smiled brightly at him, as if she was greeting an old friend. She turned to face him as she said, "Frederick! I was just talking to Alison."
"I see that," Frederick said, "Now if you don't mind, Alison and I have things to attend to."
"But of course!" Queen Elise said, leaving the room, "I wish you both the best of luck. Alison, it was a pleasure to meet you."
"Likewise, Queen Elise," Alison said, watching Elise leave. Moments later, Regina came into the room holding a golden vial. She frowned, asking in her usual regal self, "What did Queen of the river ducks want?"
"Nothing we need to worry about right now," Alison interrupted before Frederick could say anything, "Where is Emma?"
"She's putting up some protective barriers," Regina said, "Midas is making sure that this section of the hall is kept private. Shall we begin?"
"Yes," Alison said. She went over to the spell she had drawn onto the floor and sat in the middle. Regina stepped over to her and gave her the potion. Regina knelt down as she said softly, "Here is the potion. It should be able to go with your where you go."
"Okay," Alison said, crossing her legs and putting her hands in the middle. Regina glanced at Frederick, who had made it back to Kathryn's side. She whispered softly as she said, "Listen to me, you have to get to the part of her that is injured. I don't know what residual magic is there, but it might fight you. You have to be careful that you don't injure Kathryn or yourself. I can't begin to tell you the negative consequences that come of that. Got it?"
"Got it," Alison said, quietly. Regina nodded, as if trying to reassure herself that it was going to be fine. Backing away, Regina watched as Alison pricked her finger with her finger nail let the blood drop onto the mar. Alison then closed her eyes, not watching as the blood spread on her markings. The spell glowed on the floor. The mark Alison had placed on Kathryn's forehead began to glow the same vibrancy. Frederick looked between Kathryn and Alison before asking, "Is it working?"
Regina watched as she saw the potion in Alison's hand disappear. Regina nodded tersely as she said, "Now we just need to keep them both safe. If anyone interferes with the spell while Alison is in there, we are going to have more problems than just what phantom did."
Frederick's jaw tightened as he looked down at his wife to be. Squeezing her hand, Frederick said, "Let's just hope Phantom doesn't try to make a reappearance."
"Is this all of them?"
The 3 of clubs winced as he heard Alice's urgent voice. He held a lantern, allowing Alice to look in the file books that were sitting on the desk. He nodded meekly as he said, "Yes, my lady. Those are all the files that The Knave of Spades filed recently."
"Then it must be in here," Alice said, shuffling through them. "22-48, 22-56, here it is! 22-56!"
Alison pulled a rather thin looking file book as she shuffled towards the end. Scanning the page, Alison whispered, "The Mad Hatter was discovered selling secret floor plans to the Queen's Castle to a rebel spy at the Dragonfly Tavern on Day 53 of the Harvest Season at no-."
"Well if it isn't the Lady Alice."
Alice's breath caught in her throat as she heard the Knave of Spades voice. She spun around, concealing the file book behind her. He stood there with a smirk that made Alice's temper flare. However, she did not let it show, smiling prettily as she said, "Well if it isn't the Knave of Spades himself. What do I owe this visit?"
"Leave us, 3," The Knave said sharply, his eyes never leaving Alice, "I believe you have other duties to attend to."
"Yes, sir," The 3 of clubs mumbled, bowing before disappearing deeper into the Hall of Records. Alice continued to smile as she said, "You never answered my question, Knave."
"Do you really think anything you do is going to matter?" Knave of Spades said, cruelly. He walked towards her menacingly as she stood quite still. "He is guilty of treason and that's all the Queen cares to know."
"I don't know about that, Knave of Spades," Alice said innocently, "She did send me here to check your work."
"I'm not scared of the Queen," he stopped a foot away from her, towering over her. "As far as she knows, the Hatter has stolen secrets that could compromise her security and he will die for it."
"We'll see about that," Alice said, a bit more steel entering her tone.
The Knave scoffed as he leaned over towards her. She watched him carefully as he said, "Listen here. I would be careful how you speak to me. The Queen won't be able to protect your forever with the little pet name she's given you. You're a Nobody. A Nobody I will gladly show her place when the occasion arises."
The Knave ripped the file book from her hand and pulled away. Alice's smile remained but there was definite hate entering her eyes as The Knave walked away saying, "See you at the execution, Lady Alice."
Alice's smile dropped as she stared at him hatefully. Concern soon replaced her hate as she pulled a paper from behind her back saying, "I wouldn't be too sure of that, Knave."
"Alice! Alice, are you alright!?"
Alice looked to see Will come from behind one of the bookshelves. He rushed over to her as he said, "The three of clubs told me that the Knave of Spades was here-!"
"Don't worry about that," Alice said, seriously, "Will, we need to go to Dragonfly Tavern. This document says that Hatter was there at noon on Day but it's not possible! The Hatter was with me that day!"
"Then why bother going to the Tavern?" Will said, confused, "We have the proof we need-!"
"Because I think the Knave is planning something worse," Alice said urgently, "Much worse. And if we don't go, I may lose the only proof I'll get!"
Ticking.
Alison opened her eyes, seeing that she was sitting in an empty room, dim and grey. The clock on the wall was ticking slowly, as if the clock wasn't working as it should. Standing up, Alison gripped the potion as she stared at the door in front of her. It had a name simply carved into the wood: Abigail.
"Well, this is the right place," Alison said, pocketing the potion in her shirt pocket. Reaching forward, Alison opened the door hesitantly.
The world that laid beyond it was beyond queer.
She was in a forest, one with bright shining sunshine and the freshest air that Alison had ever smelled. As she walked along the path before her she couldn't help but stare in wonder at the tallest tree's she had ever seen. Alison continued to walk until she came to a clearing where she could see a kingdom of brilliant gold.
"Whoa," Alison said, her eyes in awe.
"Hello."
Alison spun around to see a girl standing in a golden dress. She didn't look much older than 9, and was a good foot shorter than her. Her blonde hair was tied back in a braid with turquoise ribbons. Her bright eyes stared at Alison hopefully as Alison said, "Um, Hello."
"Will you come play with me?" the girl said, holding out her hand.
Alison hesitated, not sure whether she could trust this entity. But something about her felt familiar and comforting. Extending her hand, she took hers.
A rush of wind surrounded them for a moment as Alison found herself in a castle nursery room. She looked around to see yellow painted walls and golden trimmings. The furniture seemed to be painted gold (or was actual gold) and girls toys riddled the room.
"Very extra Midas," Alison whispered, looking around the room.
"I know," the girl sighed, "You get used to it."
Alison gave her a suspicious look as she said, "Wait, are you-?!"
"Abigail!"
Alison felt something rush past her as she saw the same girl in different clothes run into the room laughing. A woman came in after her, dress in a pink gown and with golden hair tied back into a low bun. Alison almost felt like she was watching in slow motion the two chasing and playing. The girl was scooped up into the embrace as she giggled, "I love you, mother."
"I love you, my little princess," cooed the woman gently. The girl and the woman laughed as they played, read, and enjoyed each other's company.
"So," Alison said, watching the two frowning, "That's-."
"Queen Lydia," the girl standing next to her said, "My mother."
Alison looked to her side in shock, only to find that the girl beside her was gone. When Alison looked back at the room, she found that she was standing in a darkened hallway, the thunderstorm outside explosive in nature. Alison stared around in confusion as she heard a scream. Alison raced down the hallway until she reached the stairwell leading down into the main entry way of the castle. There were guards fleeing the room while King Midas yelled in a rage. In the middle of the floor, surrounded by maidens trying to stop the bleeding, laid the still body of Queen Lydia.
"Mother!" screamed young Abigail, her hair down and her pajamas stained with blood. The handmaiden was pulling her away, tears racing down her own cheeks as she tried to sooth the young girl. But nothing could console her. Alison could feel the pain radiate throughout the room, making her own eyes burn with the tears about to come up. She didn't have long to mourn the memory as Alison felt herself getting pulled away to outdoor garden scene. She blinked as she heard talking come from around the corner of the garden. Alison found herself upon a seen with an older Kathryn than she had seen previously but younger than she knew normally. Frederick stood with her, walking and talking.
"So I here Father is traveling away on a mission with you," Abigail said, trying to keep her voice casual.
"Yes, we are meeting with Lord Farrows of the North," Frederick said, "He wants to extend a treaty to us."
"For our gold no doubt," Abigail scowled.
"Yes," Frederick said, "We will be taking the Path through the Fae Forest."
"The Fae Forest?" Abigail said warily, "Isn't that risky?"
"It is the quickest route," Frederick sighed, "I advised against it but General Ares insisted therefore…"
"Everyone else agreed," Abigail said dryly, "Of course, they did."
"I can't help that," Frederick sighed.
"I know but I'm worried, Frederick," Abigail said, her eyes flashing up at him. Frederick stopped walking, grasping Abigail's arm.
"We will be fine," he said, gently, "And I will come back to you and we will be married. We will have the family we always wanted."
He leaned in and kissed her serenely. Alison looked away grimacing, not watching the display of affection the two was showing.
"You know showing affectionate isn't a crime," young Abigail said, staring at Alison curiously.
"Oh your back now," Alison said, sarcastically.
"Yes," young Abigail said, "I'm her subconscious. I'm her deepest thoughts, her curious questions, her happiness, her sadness… but you still didn't answer my question."
"It's gross," Alison said, making a face.
"You'll grow into it," young Abigail said smiling.
"I'm not going to grow into something that makes my skin crawl," Alison said, waving her hands, "But that's not why I'm here! I'm here to help you!"
"I know," young Abigail said, "But before you can heal me, you need to understand what is hurting me."
Alison blinked at her as she found herself in a doctor's office. She stared only to jump when she heard Dr. Whale's voice.
"I could always do more tests," Dr. Whale said, his voice gently but his expression sober. "But I don't think the results will be different. The ones we've done show that more than likely you won't be able to conceive."
Kathryn sat on the bed, wringing her hands miserable. David stood by her, looking rather miserable. He reached out to grasp her hand only for her to jerk it away. Tears escaped her, racing down her cheeks. Dr. Whale's shoulders slumped a bit as he said, "You can always look into alternative routes but at this point…"
Alison heart fell through the floor as she felt the scene change before her. That must have been before the curse broke. She never knew… She was standing in Kathryn's house, the living room to be more precise. Alison looked around before turned upon hearing Regina's voice.
"Kathryn, I have a wonderful surprise for you," Regina said, dressed in her normal black suit. Kathryn, who was watering plants in the windowsill, looked over at Regina curiously. Putting down the water pitcher, Kathryn asked, "Regina, what surprise-?"
"There is a girl," Regina said, handing her a photo, "a friend of my son's. She lost her parents long ago and her foster mother is MIA. They are looking to rehome her."
Kathryn took the photo, staring at the picture of Alison with a hopeful expression. Regina smiled as she said, "I know you were still on the fence of adopting and she not a baby. But this is your chance. A fresh start for you both. Believe me, you will be able to give her a much better life than she's had up until now."
"Regina," Kathryn said softly, staring at the picture, "I'm sure they are not going to just hand her over to me."
"Don't worry about that! I've already got approval from Social Services," Regina said, handing over the file she had tucked away in her briefcase, "All you need to do is say yes."
Alison felt the world shift again, many memories that they share coming across her vision. Alison couldn't help but feel uneasy. She never knew Kathryn couldn't have children. She continued to watch as the scene settled on Kathryn standing at the doorway of her home. Alison blinked as she saw herself say to Kathryn, "Will I see you at the wedding?"
"Of course," Kathryn said, smiling warmly, "I wouldn't miss it for the world."
"And you're okay with this?" Alison said staring up at her, "Me choosing to live with Gold?"
"Sweetheart, of course," Kathryn cooed, "He is your grandfather. And now I can spoil you rotten as your aunt. Gold can worry about keeping you in line."
"I think I'm going to be keeping him in line," past Alison said with a grin as Alison stood there with her eyes burning with more tears. There was a beep of the car as past Alison looked over her shoulder. Kathryn chuckled softly as she said, "Go. Your grandfather is waiting."
"Kay," past Alison said, "I love you."
Kathryn pressed a light kiss to the top of her forehead as she said, "I love you too."
Past Alison disappeared as Kathryn closed the door slowly. Once the door had clicked shut, Kathryn's smile was wiped from her face. Her eyes went glassy and a choked sob escaped her mouth. Alison felt her own tears burn her cheeks as she walked towards the memory of Kathryn. The woman had sunk against the door, sobbing into her knees and alone. Alison reached out, only for her hand to go through like a ghost. Alison whispered, her voice in a whine, "Why? You could have told me the truth. I would have stayed…"
"Would you?"
Alison felt a flash of lightening crossed her eyes as she found herself in a billowing storm. She stood on a plateau in the middle of sea of darkness. Across from her stood Kathryn, the Kathryn she knew but colder, angrier. She stared at Alison, her eyes unusually dark. Alison stood up, her hair wiping around. Tears still fell down her cheeks as she watched Kathryn say, "Would you have really chose to stay when you have the Dark One wrapped around your little finger? No, you're a person who is drawn to power, to those who like to thrive on that thin ledge between the believers of the light and those who dance in the darkness."
"Kathryn, what are you talking about?" Alison said, narrowing her eyes in confusion. Kathryn stepped towards her, her voice chilling Alison to the bone as she said, "Why else do you keep choosing people like Gold or the Queen of Hearts? It's because you're like them, you like the power that courses through you. You wouldn't stay for a person like her."
"This isn't you," Alison said, as Kathryn came closer, "You're-."
There was a crack of lightening, Kathryn no longer staring in front of her. Instead stood a male with dark hair and a black mask over his face. His eyes were darker than night and his smirk lighting a fire in her blood.
"Phantom," Alison said, clenching her hands at her side and the rage burning through the air.
"Hello, my love," he said, wickedly, "Did you miss me?"
"How are you in here?" Alison said, raising her hands and letting magic circled around them, "How-?"
"A magician never reveals his magic tricks," he said smoothly, "But this isn't about me."
"Really? Because you did this to her!" Alison hissed, rapid firing magic in his directions. It missed, Phantom disappearing and the magic dissipating into the air. Alison nearly jumped out of her skin when he grabbed her wrist from behind and his magic choked her, froze her.
"No my dear," Phantom whispered softly, "Don't you see. YOU did this to her."
"I didn't do any of this!" Alison snarled, only to be silenced when the air escaped her lungs. His magic was crushing and invading and everything Alison hated.
"Oh but you did, my dear. Didn't you see?" Phantom laughed softly, whispering close into her ear, "You caused her such a great pain. I've merely just taken that pain that you and Regina and others have caused and amplified it."
Alison yelped as he pushed her forward and he waved his hand. The rocks rumbled, slowly clattering on top of one another until they formed a doorway. He smirked as Alison gasped to catch her breath. He laughed, echoing into the storm as he said, "But if you don't believe me, go see. See what damage you have caused. I have some other matters to attend to."
Alison barely had time to react before he was in front of her again. His magic overwhelmed her, making her stomach churn at the sheer pressure of it. He grasped her wrists tightly, yanking her to him. He leaned in, whispering, "Until we met again, Magesteria."
He was gone in an instant, leaving Alison to gasp and catch her breath. Her hand flew to her shirt pocket, to ensure the safety of the potion. It was still there, safe and sound. Sighing, Alison stared towards the doorway nervously. The storm around her began to settle a bit, allowing the sounds of crying to be heard. Taking a deep breath, Alison made her way over to the doorway. She disappeared into the shadowy depths, unaware of the nightmare that was to be before her.
"Why does this feel too easy?"
Regina looked over at Emma, who was staring around. Her eyes were narrowed, and her expression seemed testy. Regina raised her brows as she said, "Are you daring to complain? And what part of Alison performing a very complicated spell seems easy?"
"I just mean for a man that wanted to hurt Alison, he hasn't shown up. He hasn't made himself known or try to stop us. Why would he do that?"
"Because maybe he can't?" Regina suggested, "Maybe he doesn't want to have to take on the Savior and the Evil Queen at the same time?"
"I highly doubt that," Emma said, "None to the offense, he got the better of you and I didn't even get to fight him because I was trying to defeat those soldiers. Why wouldn't he try and break through our protections especially when Alison is vunerable?"
"EMMA! REGINA!"
Regina and Emma froze as they whipped around to see Frederick being thrown from the room. Emma and Regina raced over to see the scene that was playing out before them.
The lights in the room were flickering madly and the air felt like it was being violently sucked from the door. A darkness was forming, coming out of Kathryn at a violent speed. Regina threw out her hands, shouting something in elvish that Emma didn't fully understand. A prism formed around Alison, who was still sitting upright. Emma grimaced as she raised her hands, ready to fight. Regina watched the darkness begin to form, still floating in the air.
"Get ready! One-!"
The darkness shot energy faster than Emma and Regina could blink. Emma was slammed into the wall, crumpling onto the floor. Regina fumbled across the floor, trying to get her bearings as quickly as she could. Looking up, she saw the darkness form into a person, one they had seen before and made Regina's blood boil.
"Well, well, what a cheap little spell," Phantom said, staring down at Alison, "We'll take care of that soon enough."
"Not unless I fry you," growled Regina, dark energy pooling around her hands. It exploded in his direction, the phantom letting out a strange hum. The dark energy dissipated two feet in front of him, the air glittering. Phantom smiled coldly as he extended his hand. Regina gasped, finding herself being forced into the air, choking. Phantom smirked as he said, "Do you honestly think that you're going to be able to do anything against me?"
"No but we might!"
Phantom had barely any time to react as an electric shot set him crashing across the room. Regina fell to the ground. She had barely lifted her head as another electric shock went his way. She looked back to see Ava standing in the doorway with a strange device attached to her arm. He snarled, dodging it and snarling, "You'll pay for this, girl!"
"Bite me!" Ava snapped, as she charged the device again. Phantom hissed, crashing out the window in order to escape. Ava, March Hare, and Jefferson charged past scrambling after him. Henry, Grace, and Nick stopped short of the entrance staring in wildly. March Hare jumped out the window at lightening speed as Ava and Jefferson skidded short of the window. Jefferson hollered, "Don't let him get away, Hare!"
"Mom!" Henry raced to Emma as she rolled over slowly. Regina got to her feet as she brushed off her coat as she made her way to the doorway past the other children.
"Geezuz," Emma groaned, rubbing her head, "That creep can pack a punch."
"Are you okay?" Henry said panicked.
"Yeah, I'll be fine but kid, what are you doing here?"
"We came to show you the discovery we made!" Henry said, "We found a weapon to use against him."
"And boy does it work like a charm!" Ava seethed, gripping the arm cannon looking device.
"You had some pretty wicked timing," Emma groaned.
"Yes we did," Jefferson said, backing off, "Lucky we got here when we did. How did he get in?"
"It's almost like he came out of Kathryn."
Jefferson looked over to see Frederick and Regina reenter the room. Frederick glanced around dazed as he said, "It was like darkness just evaporated out of her, turning into him."
"He must have used his magic as a portal or beacon of sorts," Regina grimaced.
"Is that even possible?" Emma said.
"Apparently so," Regina said, "Luckily, you seemed to hurt him with that Anti-Magic weapon of yours. How did you get it?"
"It is a prototype from an ally in Wonderland," Jefferson interjected smoothly, "We weren't sure if it was going to work against him or whether we could make it user friendly here."
Regina glared at him suspiciously, but Jefferson paid no heed. He went over towards Alison, who was still protected by the prism. He watched her grimace, but her eyes remained closed. Jefferson glanced at Regina as he asked sharply, "How much longer should this take? I'd rather have this finished before he comes back."
"I don't think he'll be back," Regina said steadily, "But if her fight is going to be anything like our fight, she's going to need a lot of luck."
The sounds of crying filled the tunnel as Alison made her way down it. She didn't recognize where she was but the sound of crying made her continue. The sound became clearer and clearer, making Alison move faster. She knew who was crying and it sounded like she was in pain. Alison couldn't help but call out her name, "Kathryn?! Kathryn, where are you?!"
Her foot slipped on a slippery surface, causing her to fall forward. Alison shrieked as she slid down the tunnel, falling into a cavern. Scrambling up, Alison pulled out the potion. It was unharmed, the potion within glowing brightly. Sighing in relief, she looked up to search for Kathryn. When she finally saw her, her relief was replaced with panic.
Kathryn was crumbled in the middle of cavern, her cries weakening. Her skin was pale and her hair lank. Alison let out a shriek as she raced over to her, pulling her into her arms. Kathryn stared at her emptily as she whispered, "I'm so cold…"
"No-no-no-no, Kathryn, you need to hold on!" Alison said, her heart racing and her hands trembling, "I can heal you, I can make this better. Please, just drink this."
Alison tried to put the potion in her hand only for Kathryn to jerk her hand away. Alison tried again only for Kathryn to shake her head in agony.
"No! Nothing can make this better," Kathryn moaned, her voice wavering, "I can't give the family my Father and Frederick want. I couldn't even give you the home you wanted. I couldn't do enough to make you stay."
"That's not true, Kathryn!" Alison said, her voice pitching and cracking, "You were kind and warm and everything that a mother is supposed to be!"
"Then why? Why did you leave?!" Kathryn cried, "Why did you pick him over me?"
"I-I wasn't trying to pick anyone over anyone!" Alison exclaimed, hot tears running down her face, "I'm the Mage of Wonderland and Queen of the Outlands. You are going to marry Frederick and become Queen of your own kingdom. There is never going to be a place for us to be together anymore!"
Kathryn stared at Alison as she brushed her own tears away with her sleeve. Alison's voice was heavy with regret as she said, "I love you. But I can't do be what you want or need, Princess Abigail. I can't be your daughter. Not anymore."
Abigail's sob escaped her, fresh tears falling. Alison wiped them away, watching her with utter sadness as she said, "You deserve to be happy with Frederick and to have wonderful adventures. You deserve to have children you can keep and love and never let go. Don't throw that away because this hurt you. You have so much more to give and so much more to get. Please."
Alison offered the potion to her, waiting for her to take it. Abigail finally conceded, reaching up to take it from her. She pushed the lid off, staring up at Alison sadly. She swallowed the potion and let the vial fall, it disappearing into sparkles. The cavern around them began to disappear into the light slowly. Alison swallowed, her sad eyes staring into Abigail's as she said, "Take care of yourself, Alison."
Alison gasped a bit, opening her eyes. She saw Regina and Emma staring at her in concern. Relief flooded their faces as Emma yanked her into a hug saying, "Oh thank god, kid!"
"Abigail!"
Alison glanced up to see Frederick embracing Abigail. Alison felt a lump in her throat growing as they watched them embrace. Abigail buried her face into his shoulder as Frederick said, "You're awake. You're okay."
"Yes," Abigail said slowly, "I am."
"You okay kid?" Emma asked softly into her ear. Alison gave brief bobble of her head as she said lowly, "I'm fine."
Alison pulled away as Emma still watched her concerned. She stood up and turned, walking from the hospital room feeling numb. She could hear Frederick call her name; his voice concerned. But Alison paid no heed. She continued down the hall until she came across the waiting room. Jefferson was waiting in the waiting room with Grace and Ava. Both girls jumped up upon seeing her and raced over.
"Alison, did you do it?!" Grace asked excited, "Did you help Kathryn?"
"Yeah, she's awake," Alison said quietly.
"Well you missed it! Phantom attacked while you were inside Kathryn's head but I," Ava said, proudly waving her new favorite item of choice in her hand, "I got to blast him out the window. Apparently he don't do so well with Anti-magic. The Hare tried to catch him but he disappeared…"
"Not surprised," Alison sighed.
"But at least we have a way to fight him now," Grace said, reassuringly.
"Where is Henry and Nick?" Alison asked, looking around.
"They went back to base," Grace said quickly, "They are looking for some more stuff we could use."
Alison nodded, her expression vacant. Ava and Grace exchanged worried looks as Jefferson stood up. He walked over and waggled the keys in front of them saying, "So, who wants to get the car started for me before we go get food for dinner."
"I'll do it!" Ava said quickly, grabbing the keys and racing off. Grace raced after her, shouting angrily, "Ava, no fair! You already got to use the cannon thingy!"
Jefferson turned his attention towards Alison, his green eyes sympathetic. Alison vacant expression melted into exhaustion as she stared at him wordlessly. Jefferson walked over to her and put his arm around her. Leading her away, Jefferson said, "Come on, laddie. Let's get you some tea and put you to bed. We can't have you looking terrible for the Festival and it's going to take forever to sort you out."
"Hatter. You're a miserable toad."
"I am aware. And yet you still love me."
"Don't remind me."
Jefferson squeezed her shoulders as he said, "You did good today, Lassie. You may not feel like it. But you did good."
Alison swallowed, the lump in her through still remaining as she said, "Let's just go, Hatter."
There was laughter in the air as the snow lightly fell from the sky. Lights were strung across the blocked off main streets of Storybrooke. People were walking around happily, visiting the different venues. In the park, the families and friends were skating on the ice. Snow was sitting watching Henry and Charming skate from afar while vaguely listening to her teaching companion complain.
"Disbanding the uniforms is a mistake," grumbled Avenant.
"Avenant, it'll be fine," Snow said, stirring her tea, "It's not like we told the students they could come to school in their bathing suits."
"That's not funny," Avenant said, narrowing his eyes, "They may just try once warmer weather gets here."
"It will be fine," Snow said, reaching out to grasp his hand, "Focus on getting beautiful music to play at the next concert."
"Are you doubting my taste in music, Snow White?" Avenant said, staring at her questioningly.
"I've listened to Alison play the music you assigned her recently for three hours. If that's the loud music I have to listen to next time, I'm refunding my ticket."
"Only three? She's getting lazy." Avenant responded before sipping his own tea.
"You are terrible!" Snow laughed.
"I am a perfectionist, when did you forget that?"
"Oh, it must have been around the time you were trying to get out of our arranged marriage," Snow teased.
"I do believe that was a combined effort."
"How could I not? I didn't want to be married and you were so much in love with someone else," Snow said, dreamily. Avenant tensed, staring off at the lake with a closed expression. Snow watched him sadly as she said, "I'm sorry. I don't mean to bring up bad memories."
"I know," Avenant said, coolly, "So I hear your husband is up for nominee as Mayor."
"He is indeed," Snow said, watching him astutely, "As well as Lord Farrows."
"Of course, he would be," Avenant said, grimacing, "Let's hope he didn't win that vote."
"Many people seemed upset that you didn't take over as Mayor," Snow said quietly.
Avenant stared at Snow hard, his glare too much for her to see. Looking down, Snow said, "Don't worry, Avenant. I made it clear to my husband and Lord Ardor made it clear to the council that you weren't interested."
"Good," Avenant said, "I will have enough to deal with upon returning to our land. I'm taking this rare opportunity to attend to other interests."
Avenant stood up, rubbing his shoulder in a grimace. Snow finally looked back at him as he said, "I will see you at school. Enjoy this time with your family."
He left, holding his tea in his hand. He made his way through the festival and down one of the side streets. He stopped in the alley way as he said, "Does no one understand discretion anymore?"
"I don't know," Maleficent's voice taunted, "That phantom of yours didn't have ANY discretion when going after Alison. To add insult to injury, he was beaten by a seventh grader with a big mouth."
"It doesn't matter," Avenant said, "The phantom did it's job. Even though Princess Abigail has been healed, that relationship between her and the Mage has been damaged. I can still feel the pain in her heart."
"It sounds like you're trying to sell me excuses," Maleficent said, shortly.
"Speaking of excuses, what is yours for not asking for a meeting?" Avenant snapped, coldly.
"Timing, Lord Casablancas," Maleficent purred, "It is all about timing."
Alison stared out at everyone, spending time with their families. Alison stood, leaning against a tree with her arms crossed. She scoffed as she watched Grace and Henry race around with Jefferson trailing behind. She didn't even flinch when she heard Regina say, "I see Jefferson is still tagging along to my son's 'dates'."
"Don't worry," Alison said rolling her eyes playfully before looking at the former Evil Queen, "He likes Henry. But he is still her Dad and still very protective."
"I still can't believe Emma agreed to let him go on dates," Regina huffed, watching them skate around the ice, "They are still much too young!"
"You feel what you feel," Alison said with a shrug, "Regardless of how old you are."
Regina looked at Alison, worry entering her eyes as she asked, "What about you? Kathryn told me about what happened in her mind… I'm sure none of was easy to deal with."
"I was stupid," Alison said, a tint of anger in her voice, "Stupid to think that choosing to live with Gold wasn't going to hurt her. Especially all after everything she had done for me."
"Hey, don't beat yourself up over it," Regina said, sympathetic, "I am the one that put you two together."
"You did that to help a friend," Alison said, looking at Regina.
"I did that in part to help a friend," Regina said, regretfully, "But I mostly did it to hurt your Grandfather. Instead I just ended up hurting everyone involved, especially my friend. I seemed to have picked up that habit from my mother…"
Regina's voice went dark, her voice trailing away. Dark thoughts seemed to be swirling around in her head as Alison watched a woman she never thought she would view as a friend. She could see the guilt building in her face as she slowly wrung her hands together. Alison stood up away from the tree saying, "Regina, you may have picked up that habit from her but trust me. If you were anything like her, we wouldn't even be having this conversation."
Regina looked down at Alison, who was staring up at her with certainty. Regina examined Alison as she asked, "My mother scarred you deeply too, didn't she?"
"It's what she does best," Alison said with a sigh.
"Gods, I'm going to take the greatest pleasure in blasting her into the next century whenever she shows her face," Regina said, the simmering rage rising.
"Actually, Regina," Alison said, her voice hesitating, "I need you to not… do that."
"Um, I'm sorry," Regina said, "Did we forget that she is the enemy here?"
"I haven't forgotten," Alison said with a scowl, "I also know that she is still the Queen of Hearts, where believe it or not she is beloved by at least three quarters of the population in the Upperlands. Wonderland is at peace. It is still at peace and I am trying really hard to keep it that way. If we pick a fight with her, we won't be and this town may become collateral damage."
Regina sucked in her lips a bit, obviously not pleased about what she was being asked. Alison watched her before saying, "Look, I'm not saying we won't deal with her. But did you just go in guns a blazing when you were trying to usurp Snow White?"
"No of course not," Regina said, sighing in frustration.
"Then please," Alison said, "Don't give her any ammunition against us. Despite everything we know she has done, she still has a lot of friends in the political world. Trust me, if I could just blast her into the wall I would."
"May I have everyone's attention please!"
Lord Ardor's voice echoed across the town square. Alison looked to see everyone going towards the square. Alison patted Regina's shoulder saying, "I will see you at home?"
"Since I'm pretty sure you're just going to break into my house again if I say no, sure," Regina said rolling her eyes. Alison grinned at her, saluting her as she said, "Face it, you like the company!"
"Not when they leave their music lying all over my living room!" Regina called after her.
"Well Sheppard, it sounds like it is almost time."
David gritted his teeth standing in the main entrance of the Town Hall, watching Lord Farrows fix his tie, staring into his reflection in the window.
"Try to accept this gratefully," he said, stiffly and arrogantly, "This town is in desperate need of a good leader."
"I couldn't agree more," David said, crossing his arms and staring at him hardly. Lord Farrows turned, narrowing his eyes and straightening up even more than he was.
"You may have married into this but make no mistake," Lord Farrows said, icily as he walked towards David, "No one is going to accept you as leader. There isn't a trace of noble trace in your body and despite what some commoner's may say about nobles, we are always revered in the end."
"David! There you are!"
David found Alison coming in between Lord Farrows and himself. She smiled brightly as she said, "I'm so sorry I couldn't meet with you earlier! Queen Elise was so kind enough to inform me of the necessary details of your meeting while I was helping Lord Frederick and Princess Abigail. I trust you will have a little bit of time tomorrow to go through the details of it."
"Um, yes," David said, staring from Lord Farrows to Alison, "I can-!"
"Unless he is not chosen as Mayor, Magesteria," Lord Farrows interjected haughtily, stepping forward, "Then you will be dealing with me."
"Oh, Lord Farrows, I didn't even see you there," Alison said dismissively turning with a smile on her face. She stepped towards him, powering radiating in her eyes dangerously as Lord Farrows step unconsciously backwards. "I'm sorry, Lord Farrows. But it doesn't matter if you win or not because David requested the meeting with me. Besides, I don't take kindly to Lords that insult Queens, especially ones that fuel almost half the Enchanted Forests trade by the way. After all, wasn't it you that called me during the meeting 'a naïve child'?"
"Magesteria, I apologize for my rudeness-!"
"I accept your apology," Alison interrupted, turning back towards David, "But please excuse us Lord Farrow. We have business to attend to."
Alison pulled David away as Lord Farrows scowled, going to stand with his supporters in the other wing. David looked down at Alison said apologetically, "I'm sorry, I was going to talk to you about the meeting-!"
"Don't worry about that Charming, I have my own eyes and ears and grapevines to tell me information," Alison said, stopping and brushing off his coat. "What we now need to worry about is fixing you up a bit."
Alison pulled and fiddled with collar of his shirt until it was laying nicely over his winter jacket. She pulled a tweed flat cap out of nowhere as she placed it on his head saying, "There, now you don't look like you rolled out of bed."
"Is there a reason you are monkeying with my clothes," Charming asked.
"Because even though this is a very impromptu casual event, you still need to look like you care about the position you are going to take, Charming," Alison said, "Appearance is not everything but it plays a part in first impressions. You need this first impression to be good if you want to be a successful leader."
"That's if I win," Charming said, his voice filled with doubt.
"You will win," Alison said firmly, "One because Lord Farrow has the personality of a goat and two because people trust you. You are going to get up on that stage when Lord Ardor announces your victory and you are going to give an impromptu speech of how grateful you are for this opportunity and you will look forward to serving the needs of this town. If, and I mean IF, Lord Farrows win you will congratulate him and tell the world that you look forward to working on the council to better further your realm."
Charming swallowed as he said, "You seem to know your stuff."
"I may look like I'm only almost twelve," Alison said, "But Charming, I was in Wonderland for over 30 annuals. I lived in a court for the first 12 and became Queen during the remainder. It was not easy and I made mistakes. For better or for worse, I know politics. Now, straighten up and keep loose. Don't be nervous."
Alison patted his shoulder as she moved behind him. Charming stared ahead, watching Lord Ardor speak to the town. Snow made her way over to Charming, linking her arm as she said, "Well don't you look nice. Hopeful?"
Charming glanced at Alison as he said, "Yes. Hopeful."
"We as a council took vote upon your request of who would be the next leader after Mayor Mills and I am here to announce our decision," Lord Ardor said, "Please put your hands together for our new mayor, Lord David!"
The crowd burst into loud cheers as David and Snow made their way to the stand. Alison watched with a smile as David shook Lord Ardor's hand. He then took the podium and said, "Thank you Lord Ardor. And thank you residents of Storybrooke, for choosing to place your trust in me as your next leader. I know things have been chaotic and that it feels as if bad things keep happening."
David glanced at Snow as he said to the crowd, "But we have to keep hope and you will have hope! I am grateful for this opportunity you have given me to serve as your Mayor and look forward to serving the needs of a good town!"
People clapped loud, whistling and cheering for him. Snow gave his hand a squeeze, beaming brightly. Alison smiled, staring at them for a minute before turning around and walking away. She made her way down main street, away from the crowds and the noise. She came across Granny's diner, which had been closed for the night. Alison pulled the keys from her pocket, walking up to the door and unlocking it. She slipped inside, staring around at the dark diner. She turned on one of the table lights as she went around the diner, flicking on one of the coffee/hot water machine to make tea. She pulled two teacups from the top shelf, put a tea bag in both, turning around to place it on the table. She stared at the table and sighed, twirling her hand around to conjure as small bowl of sugar, three cubes exactly. There was a small milk pitcher in the right side of the table, filled only about halfway Alison made her way back behind the counter as she went to grab a pot.
"Aw, you remembered."
Alison glanced over to see Cora standing by the table. She was dressed in black trousers and a well-tailored suit jacket to match. Her blouse was deep red and she still work her heart necklace around her neck. Alison flicked the switch for hot water as the pot began to fill. Cora sat down at the table as she said, "Three sugar cubes exactly. And just enough milk for the both of us."
"It's hard to forget," Alison said, flicking the water off when the pot had been filled, "Especially when you had me make it every day."
Alison walked over to the table with the pot, putting it on the right side of the table. Alison sat down opposite her as Cora said, as Alison poured them both hot water, "What can I say, you made the best tea. You always knew how much we would need and never bog the table down with unessential items."
Alison prepared her tea as Cora prepared hers. Cora took her three cubes and stirred them into her teacup gracefully. Alison pour a bit of milk into hers as Cora said, "I'm surprised at you. I never thought you would have backed the Sheppard."
"He has potential," Alison said, placing the milk pitcher back in its spot. Cora scoffed light, taking the pitcher and pouring her milk. Alison glanced at Cora as she said, firmly, "I said he had potential. I didn't say he was perfect."
"I didn't say anything, love," Cora said simply, sipping her tea. Alison pulled out playing cards, shuffling the deck. Cora watched her for a minute before putting her teacup down, "I thought that speech was interesting. Especially considering you look like you just rolled out of bed."
"I'm not Mayor," Alison responded smartly.
"No, you're Queen," Cora responded swiftly.
"Well sorry you don't like my leggings and tee-shirts," Alison said rolling her eyes.
"I'm just saying that you are a beautiful young girl and to be dressing so plainly doesn't suit you," Cora said sweetly, "Now what game are we going to play, Alice?"
"I was thinking Old Maid," Alison replied, pointedly.
"My dear," Cora said, folding her hands on the table, "That's childish."
"Well I am eleven," Alison said, "Almost twelve."
"I thought we agreed to keep things civil," Cora said, intently, "For the sake of not getting into war and tempting the Fates."
"We did," Alison said, dealing out the cards, "But that doesn't mean all is forgiven."
"Alice, I told you," Cora said, staring at her with melancholy, "I came to make peace. Don't you miss how things used to be? Morning tea, reading books in the garden of roses, complaining of the nobles that made fools of themselves in court of meaningless endeavors."
Alison placed the cards down in the middle of the table rather hard. Cora watched, not looking pleased but not saying anything against her. The Mage of Wonderland picked up her cards as she said, voice calm but her eyes filled with anger, "Last I checked, Majesty, I'm not the one that threw that all away."
"Majesty please, I have the proof. The Knave is setting the Mad Hatter up and worse, I think he's the one guilty of treason instead of the Hatter!"
Alice and the Queen were standing in her parlor, the evening sun shining through the window. Cora was putting on her bracelet as she said dully, "You said you 'think' you know. What do you mean, Pet?
Alice said, holding the document in her hands, "The Knave said the Mad Hatter exchanged information on the 53 Day at Noon. But I was with the Hatter myself that day. You sent me there yourself."
"This is true, my love," Cora said, picking up her earrings.
"Will and I went to the Dragonfly Tavern to see if someone had really seen the Hatter," Alice said, "But the Barmaid said that she saw the Knave of Spades. She said she couldn't quite see what it was, but she said he said, "That bringing her down was for the better good." And that they were exchanging money for the file books."
"I see," the Queen of Heart said frowning, "That is quite troublesome."
"So then you'll free the Hatter?"
Cora finished putting her earrings on as she said, "No."
Alice froze, staring at Cora incredulously. Swallowing, Alice said, "No? You mean you don't believe me?"
"I believe you, Pet," Cora said, putting her tiara on the top of her head, "But I still cannot free the Hatter."
"But-But the Knave is the one selling secrets!" Alice said, staring at Cora like she had lost her mind, "You're just going to let him keep doing what he is doing?!"
"Pet," Cora said, "There is a lesson you must learn. Sometimes you must play in another's game for a time in order to win. I know the Knave is planning something against me and I have plans to play his little game."
Alice looked at Cora as she picked up her court mask and said, "I'm afraid in order to do that, the Mad Hatter must die. I'm sorry, pet."
"Majesty." Alice heard Cora's most trusted Knave as he said, "The court is waiting for you."
"I am coming Knave."
Cora began to cross the room as Alice shook her head madly. She followed Cora as she said, "Majesty, even if you wait to catch him in his own web, he has too much support from his own House. If you lose them, you'll get thrown into civil wa-!"
Cora whirled around, slapping Alice across the face. Her patience was gone and rage was in her eyes. The Tweedlies at the door gasped and even the Knave seemed more surprised than pleased. Alice was rooted to the spot, her eyes glassy as she stared at the Queen.
"I am the Queen in the court. YOU of all people do not tell me what to do, girl!" Cora bellowed, her dangerous magical aura rising. Alice expression went from distraught to steel. Cora's temper seemed to subside, staring at the girl with her usually calmness. Straightening herself up, Cora said, "Go to your room. The Tweedlies will accompany you. I will come see you after the sentencing, Pet."
"Yes," Alice said, her tone cold, "You're Majesty."
Alice curtsied, waiting for Cora to leave the room with the Knave. The Tweedlie La immediately put her arm around Alice shoulder's as she said, "Please, My Lady. Let's go to your room. Sister get ice for Lady Alice's face."
The Tweedlie nodded, racing off down the corridor as fast as she could. Alice followed the Tweedlie La numbly, her face showing that her thoughts were in far off places. Tweedlie brought her into her chambers where Will was waiting nervously. Upon seeing her, Will was striken as he said, "What happened?!"
"Our Queen didn't believe Alice," Tweedlie said, her voice tearful, "She got so angry, she struck her poor face. Oh, Will, please watch her while I go get some powder to cover what bruise might form."
"I will," Will Scarlet said, grasping Alice's shoulders. Tweedlie La ran from the room, shutting the door quickly behind him. Will watched Alice sadly as he said, "I'm sorry, Alice. I was afraid it wasn't going to do any good."
Alice didn't look at him, raising her hand to place over his heart. Her glassy eyes returned as she stared at it. Will looked at her uncertainly as he reached out to brush her hair from her face. "Alice?"
"Will," Alice said, her voice shaky and hurt, "I did meet you before somewhere else. It wasn't a dream, was it?"
"Alice," Will said, his eyes distraught.
"I did!" Alice said, her voice turning angry in a split second, "I did, and she ripped out your heart and she- gods I am so stupid!"
"No!" Will embraced her tight as he said firmly, "You are not stupid. We get blind towards the people we care about."
Alice gripped his jacket tightly before pushing him way. Will looked at her, worried as Alice said, "Will Scarlet. Will you do something for me?"
"Anythin' love," Will said.
"If I help you get your heart back," Alice whispered, "Will you help me? Will you help me free the Hatter?"
Will didn't answer verbally but nodded briefly. He swallowed as he said, "We'll have to run. Alice, we won't be able to come back here if we do this."
Alice stared at him hardly as she said, "Then we run. We'll run far away and never come back. She can rot in the castle that she loves so much."
"Sweet victory!"
Nick rolled his eyes as he and his sister walked back from the festival. The snow was still falling around them as Ava spun around saying, "Well I don't know about you, but I say we had a pretty good break. We got the Phantom good, Kathryn is healed, and now we don't have to wear those uniforms to school ever again!"
"Great, now you have another reason to get detention when you break dress code," Nick said rolling his eyes. Ava stuck her tongue out at him playful and he smiled weakly. He said, shuffling in the snow, "I'm glad you're feeling better."
"What?" Ava asked, looking at him baffled, "When was I not feeling good?"
"You've been quiet," Nick said, looking at her worried, "And weird, especially yesterday. You just weren't yourself."
Ava bit her lip, her smile vanishing. She stuffed her hands in her pockets as she said, "That... I may have heard Jefferson and Chesshire talking. I think their hiding something from Alison but I'm not sure what it is."
"Oh," Nick said, his face falling a bit, "Great. Another problem."
"No," Ava said, stricken, "I'm not sticking my nose in this. Jefferson's never given us reason to doubt him before. I don't want to meddle and have Alison get hurt. She's already..."
Her voice trailed away as she stared ahead. She stopped dead in her tracks as Nick stopped too.
"Ava," Nick asked, "What's wrong?"
"Why is our door broken open?" Ava asked, horrified. Nick look ahead, see their door hanging off it's hinges. Both the twins hearts dropped as they raced to the house. They scrambled around, screaming for him.
"Dad! DAD! Where are you!" Ava said, urgently running from room to room. She only stopped when she heard Nick screech, "AVA!"
Ava raced to where her brother stood frozen. He stood in the entry way of their father's bedroom, tears racing down his face. Ava looked and screamed in agony to see words sprawled across the wall in blood:
I TOLD YOU I WOULD MAKE SURE YOU'D PAY, GIRL.
