Disclaimer: Tis not mine, not in any way, shape, form, or size… Oh the tragedy.
Dun dun dun dun… Behold! The first, ever, beta'd chapter of Deception, the wonderful, the marvelous, MinouZar! who was a wonderful help in clearing up the ramble and nonetheless. Thank you ever so kindly. ^^
And thank you everyone who has reviewed, favorited, and alterted this story. You guys rule! Thank you. ^^ Now only the story.
Alice struggled to stay awake during the journey. She would have been able to sleep if it wasn't for the worry that continued to eat her inside. Deeper and deeper she seemed to be falling into a dangerous game she wasn't quite sure she wanted to play anymore. What had begun as a simple dream has slowly turned into a nightmare, something that merely oozed foreboding and fear. She'd go back home and marry Hamish if it meant not having to deal with the consequences of tomorrow.
Arriving at Marmoreal, Alice couldn't help but notice now bright it looked. Bright, and shimmering, even more so with the moonlight; it made the entire castle eerily beautiful. At first the White Knights were startled at the sight of the Bandersnatch, but with Alice's assurance the beast calmed enough to be allowed out into one of the fields. Bayard was reluctant to enter the castle, even though the Queen had apparently given asylum to the rest of his family. The hound still felt guilt over what he'd done. Alice stayed with him while one of the knights went to inform the Queen of her arrival. The girl knelt down to rub the old dog's ears comfortingly, telling him none of it was his fault and that he'd done well. The hound looked a little cheerier by the time the knight returned and told her the Queen was expecting her.
The halls of the castle were empty when she entered. There were no attendants, and no animals, just cheerful paintings and tapestries adorning the walls. As the doors of the throne room opened, Alice was presented with the sight of the White Queen. She stood small, yet strong, in a white summer dress with long, white curly hair, a smile on her face, and wide open arms to greet her. Alice instantly felt at ease as she approached, carrying the Vorpal sword stretched out over her palms.
"Welcome to Marmoreal," the Queen greeted, her smile brightening. The sincerity and gentleness of it was so comforting that Alice found herself eagerly returning her smile in response.
"I believe this belongs to you, Your Majesty." She gave the smallest of curtsies as the Queen's eyes fell upon the sword, taking it from Alice's hands and stroking it gently.
"Welcome home, old friend," she whispered softly to the blade, turning on her heels to place the sword upon the armor standing near the throne. "The armor is complete, and now all we need is a champion." She looked expectantly at Alice, who instantly frowned, unsure as to how the Queen would react to her refusal.
"With all due respect, Your Majesty—"
The Queen, as if sensing her intent, interrupted. "Please, no formalities are needed. Let us be friends." She smiled shakily. "How old did you say you were?"
"Nineteen, Your Majesty."
"Please, dear child, call me Mirana. Nineteen, you say…has it truly been that long? My, you Abovelanders do grow rather tall…"
"Oh no, I had a bit too much upelkuchen," Alice admitted.
"Ah, that's easily fixed. Right this way."
Mirana lead her into a room that instantly illuminated upon the Queen's arrival. It was a right mess of things and looked as though it had yet to be cleaned. Inside, cauldrons stood simmering. Alice watched as Mariana stood behind one and began to place a variety of questionable items inside. Alice sat upon one of the stools, watching until the Queen began to speak in a conversational tone.
"How did my sister seem to you?"
"Perfectly horrid," Alice replied, thinking honesty would be best. "You can't imagine the kind of things that go on in that place." Alice looked pointedly at Mirana, thinking back to what Stayne had told her about Bayard's family. "The beheadings, the torture, the imprisonments…you can't imagine what it's like."
The Queen looked up at that. "Oh, yes I can. However, once a champion is found, he, or she," she added pointedly, "will inspire others to rise against her. Her reign will end, and the suffering along with it. Until then, all we can do is pray." She asked, then, "What of the Hatter?"
"He's to be beheaded tomorrow, along with Mallymkun," Alice answered, sadness washing over her at the thought, "for hiding me."
Mirana said nothing for a while, only breaking the silence as she spat into the cauldron. "That should do it, now taste." She held the spoon out to Alice, who took a sip and swallowed, feeling the familiar sensation of shrinking. She found herself clutching her gown at the front, gratefulness enveloping her as she was reduced to her rightful size. At last…
"Thank you," Alice spoke with all honesty. She would have hugged her if she could.
The Queen smiled, though it did not reach her eyes. "You must be tired. I'll take you to your room so you can change and sleep. Follow me." She turned and led Alice down the deserted corridors through the castle, speaking along the way. "I would have had one of the attendants escort you, but they've all retired for the evening I'm afraid."
"That's quite alright," Alice said. "I'm sorry if I woke you. I know it must have been a bit of a surprise."
"Oh no, child," Mirana corrected, "we've been expecting your arrival for quite some time." She suddenly stopped before a large door. "This will be your room for your stay. Should you need anything, just call. Sleep tight." She awkwardly patted Alice on the head, giving one last airy twirl before walking away.
Taking a breath, Alice moved to open the doors. It surprised her when they opened automatically as soon as she touched the wood, revealing a gloriously elegant room, all in white and blue. There was a fluffy feather bed, mirrors, a dresser, a closet, and an open balcony. Atop the bed there sat silk blue pajamas, which she quickly changed into. She then slipped under the covers and tucked herself in, pushing away all thoughts of worry as she settled into the first, long-awaited restful sleep since she'd arrived in Underland.
S~s~S~s~S
The White Queen left Alice at the door to her bedroom, watching her entrance into the room from the end of the corridor before taking her leave and heading to the study. She daintily waltzed into the room, fluttering her fan as she sat herself upon the tall white chair behind the desk. She cleared her throat a moment before addressing the awaiting guard at the opposite door. "Bring him in," she commanded. The Knight bowed and turned the handle, opening the door to reveal Bayard Hamer, who quickly scampered into the room.
"Leave us," she said to the guard with a smile. He bowed once more as he marched out of the room. The door closed gently behind him, leaving both the hound and the Queen alone.
"My lady." Bayard began to bow, but was halted by the noise when Mirana slammed her fan upon the desk.
"I thought I told you to bring him back with you," she said accusingly, the tone one only a few had the misfortune of hearing.
"I could not Your Majesty, he was too well-guarded," he pleaded.
"Or did you simply lose your way again?"
The hound's ears fell at that. "No, Majesty. Since Alice was discovered, security's been on high alert throughout the castle. The dungeons have been especially marked."
"And just whose fault is that?" She hissed.
Few had the displeasure of seeing this hidden side of the Queen. Few thought her capable of frustration or anger. Many thought she was above all that, and saw only the kindness, but the unlucky few, like Bayard, knew all too well that Iracebeth was not the only royal with a temper.
"Mine, Majesty…"
"Indeed." She clicked her nails upon the desk in thought. "It's alright, Bayard, the cat's out of the bag either way." She suddenly smiled and with it her whole demeanor changed. "I don't blame you, old friend. You've served us well, especially now with Alice. I thank you. Go, spend time with your family. Frabjous Day is upon us. We must be prepared for anything…don't worry, we'll get through this."
Taking that as his dismissal, the faithful hound with his tail and ears tilted slightly higher, took his leave.
"It just goes to show you should never send a dog to do a cat's work. Though I do so wish you wouldn't use my species in figures of speech," a deep voice sounded from behind.
"He has his uses…" She commented dully. "Chess," Mirana startled, turning in her chair to face the feline. "How good it is to see you."
"Now, now then, don't beat around the tree. You summoned me here for a reason. How might I be of service?"
"It's Tarrant," the White Queen replied tersely. "He needs our help."
S~s~S~s~S
"Alice," a voice whispered into her dreams. "Alice…" This time the voice was louder. "Stupid girl. Wake up." It was this that told her it was most definitely not a dream. Alice sat up from the bed, looking around groggily. "Over here, you silly girl." The voice huffed suddenly. "Stand up." Alice did so. "Walk over to the balcony. That's it. There you have it…and look up." She did so.
Alice blinked. "Absolem? Is that you?" The blonde gazed curiously at the blue caterpillar sitting upon the leaf of a nearby tree branch, a hookah in its mouth. As Alice closed the distance between them, the caterpillar chose to blow the smoke from his pipe, effectively knocking it into the blonde's face. She coughed and waved her hand in front of her face in attempt to dispel the smoke. "I thought we'd discussed this…"
"Of course it's me, you dim-witted girl. For a moment there I feared you'd perhaps forgotten your own name. I would hope your memory had not been scrambled by your most recent fall."
"I simply didn't recognize you. You're so much smaller than before." Perhaps it had been the pishalver, or simply the height at which he'd sat when they'd first met, but he'd appeared enormous, towering above all. "And how would you know about that?" No one else had been at the windows far as she knew.
"I am all-seeing, if you care to remember. To answer your question, I'd thought it'd be obvious. This is my natural size. I thought you might appreciate it, given your most recent changes in appearance. Unless of course you'd prefer me to stretch?" He began to grow rapidly, the wood sustaining his form cracked slightly.
"No, no it's fine." Alice quickly moved to stop him, less the branch break. Absolem quickly reduced back to his natural form with contempt. "I simply wasn't aware. Size does count for a lot here doesn't it."
"It counts for enough. You should know by now that appearances often deceive."
"In this world," Alice added.
Absolem stared at her. "In any world," he corrected.
"You called me Alice."
"It is your name, is it not?"
"Before you said—"
"I said you were not hardly Alice. You're much more her now, though, in fact—"
"I suppose you're going to say I've lost my muchness as well, then," Alice interrupted, not caring to hear yet another mention of the "old Alice".
Absolem sighed and continued. "The Oraculum said—"
"The Oraculum must have been wrong, then. I won't—I cannot slay the Jabberwocky."
"The Oraculum is never wrong, simply slightly unreasonable at times." The caterpillar shifted upon the leaf. "You might find one day that the reason is seldom comforting when it stands in the way of truth." Letting out one final puff, the great caterpillar disappeared.
Alice merely stood there on the balcony, watching as night turned into dawn. Just when she thought she'd figured it out, she was unsure of just who she was supposed to be once more.
S~s~S~s~S
Stayne stood upon the podium, next to the executioner, watching as the procession passed by. The drums were playing, the people and animals alike rounded around the podium. The Hatter and Mallymkun wrapped in chains slowly made their way towards the stage, the mouse trailing slightly behind. Stayne looked up at the gallery, waiting for the Queen's signal. "I do so love morning executions… Don't you?" She looked pointedly at Stayne as she spoke, and he quickly raised his glove to signal the oncoming end. The Hatter tip toed into place, with his head upon the stocks, and there the Queen with her signature words moved the executioner into action. "Off with his head…"
The axe came down, cutting through the air upon it's victim. The head and hat, however, went floating high into the air until it was facing the Queen, and there the Cheshire Cat appeared. The Queen's face instantly took on a pale complexion at the sudden familiarity of a similar time when the cat had disrupted her court. The sense of fear had been set. The Hatter in all form then appeared from behind the Queen's chair.
"Madam, you are being heinously bamboozled by these lexspeckled toadies you surround yourself with."
Stayne instantly ran up the stairs towards the gallery. Meanwhile, the Hatter pulled apart the false appendages of the courtiers, effectively pulling apart the Queen's illusions of her world at court with it as noses, ears, chins, bosoms, and all else went flying before her eyes. Threats of decapitation and treason were being screamed.
The Hatter lowered from the chaos with the attendants onto the stage and addressed the audience bellow proudly.
"All of you, rise up against the Blood Red Queen," he cried out. "Downal with Bluddy Behg Hid."
"Downal with Bluddy Behg Hid!" They chorused.
The Jubjub Bird was then released, and with it utter pandemonium. People and animals cried out in terror, anger, frustration, rebellion, and victory. It was very reminiscent of Horunvendush Day, except this time it was Iracebeth's kingdom unraveling before her very eyes. She could only watch the destruction from the balcony, all her "loyal" followers now changing sides, her attendants nothing buy lackeys out of fear, and all she was left with was Stayne and the Red Knights who struggled to round up as many as they could, though only more escaped.
"You were right Stayne. It is far better to be feared than loved," Iracebeth said dully. "Let us prepare. Tomorrow we'll be paying my little sister a visit."
Oh, they would pay…they would all pay. She would make sure of it.
As Stayne watched the Tweedles, the White Rabbit, and the dormouse, all lead by Tarrant, go on their way to Marmoreal, to the Queen and to Alice... Stayne wasn't so sure anymore.
S~s~S~s~S
Day came, and with it anxiety, as Alice was lead downstairs for lunch. The Queen had allowed for her to sleep in, something that was both appreciated and necessary. Not only was it the late hour she'd gone to bed, but it was also Absolem's final wise, yet puzzling, words. They'd caused great uneasiness within her, but her only thoughts now were those of the Hatter and the execution. Had the execution taken place? Did he escape? The more time passed, the less likely the latter had come true.
"Would you care to ride?" Mirana interrupted her musings, watching the girl carefully for her reaction, the silence growing overwhelming. The Queen was too fond of talking to stay quiet for long.
"A ride?"
Mirana stood, enthusiasm practically spilling from her form. "I do so enjoy rides. They help clear my mind when I'm troubled. Come." She motioned, or rather implied, for her to follow. "I know a lovely hill near the forest."
Minutes later they were riding along the countryside. Alice found herself enjoying the distraction, the birds chirping, the fruit buds hanging off the branches, just waiting to bloom, and the simple fruitfulness of the earth, so unlike the near-dead border of the Red Queen's kingdom. Only tragedy, misery, and death played a role in destroying the once-peaceful land.
"It's so lovely here," Alice commented.
"You should see the gardens."
"Oh, I'd love to," Alice said eagerly.
The Queen smiled. "Perhaps another time…after Frabjous Day." Alice's smile faltered. "I had hoped to have a champion by now."
Alice sighed and turned to her. "Why don't you slay the Jabberwocky then? You must have the power."
"It's against my vows to harm any living creature," Mirana said stiffly.
"When did you take those vows?"
"As a child," Mirana started. "It caused quite a bit of tension between me and my sister…"
S~s~S~s~S
Iracebeth's favorite pastime as a child had been hunting, along with their father. As a small girl, it was one of the ways her and her father had connected, their secret pastime as her mother disapproved. When Mirana was born, she tried many ways to connect with her sister. Iracebeth, however, would disdain from her company, as Mirana favored their mother's meek and quiet nature. She preferred to stay at home and read or sing. That, and her overly cheerful personality made Iracebeth long for escape, which she would in hunting, leaving Mirana alone at the castle with no one to play with.
One day Mirana had begged to participate, only once. It was one of Iracebeth's first solo hunts. Iracebeth was thirteen, Mirana was eight. Despite Iracebeth's protests, in understanding of her sister's disdain for hunting—as shown at how she would react each time game was added to their supper—her parents, as usual when it came to Mirana's desires, had allowed it.
It was the first and the last day she would hunt. As soon as Iracebeth had pulled her bow, and the deer had fallen, Mirana screamed bloody murder, running toward the fallen creature. She'd begged her father to save it, but when he explained he coudln't, that it was already dying and therefore for the best, she'd cried and cried, hands placed over the wound on its chest in a futile attempt to save it herself, even after the creature was long dead. Their father had come behind Mirana then, picking her up and ignoring her protests, he held her tightly to him. He'd then mounted his horse, and began to gallop towards the castle, calling for a forlorn Iracebeth to follow in line. She'd done so, and they left the creature behind.
At supper that evening, while her mother was with Mirana, who refused to eat, in attempt to console her, Iracebeth tried to ask her father what he'd thought of her skills that day. He'd snapped at her, and told her never to bring the event up again. Her mother had returned then, saying it was very irresponsible of her to frighten her sister so, and that she was to no longer hunt. Unknown to their parents, Mirana had crept from her room and down the stairs to listen, watching from the alcove. Instead of defending her, their father agreed, saying it was high time she learned to be a lady and her duties if she ever wished to take the throne. It was the first day Iracebeth truly began to despise her sister.
Since the incident, Mirana had vowed to never again hurt living creatures whilst futilely trying to connect with her sister through walks in the woods, rides, and talking with the animals. Father had indulged her, and only for his presence Iracebeth had tagged along, but otherwise ignored her sister. Their father had instilled within them a great respect for nature, as he'd taught her everything was connected. And what one took from nature in life, would mean giving back to nature in death. Iracebeth had respected these rules, every time she'd hunted, and had reluctantly resigned herself when that activity was no longer an option. Mirana enjoyed their strolls. For Iracebeth however, walks with Mirana were not so pleasant. Her cheerful disposition and ability to make almost any living creature love her, undoubtably instilled jealously and overall resentment towards nature itself. No animal loved or respected her so much after they'd met her sister to compare her with. The same issue came meeting with the villages and commoners. Mirana always stole the room, especially at home. Mirana eventually gave up trying to understand her sister's resentment towards her, only watching from afar as her sister seemed to become farther and farther away, until they'd become solely strangers, and then eventually enemies.
S~s~S~s~S
Now here they were, mere days away from a huge battle, fighting for the crown. Mirana wondered, in the unlikely chance that they lost, what would happen when there was no longer an enemy for the Red Queen to hunt.
"It still doesn't explain why is has to be me," Alice said rather candidly. "Just because the Oraculum says—"
"It is your destiny, child. Just think about who you are. This is who you're meant to be."
"No, it's not. I'm Alice Kingsleigh. I live in London with my mother Helen. I have a sister named Margaret who's married to Lowell who's really quite unworthy of her devotion. I've recently been proposed to by Hamish Ascot, though I really don't want to marry him, and everyone expects me to. I've got to go through with it though, to help my mother and not be a burden on her. Ever since Father died, everything's gone wrong…and no matter how much I try to live my own life, no matter how much time I stay in this dream, I can't stop it. Eventually reality is going to catch up with me, and what I want won't matter anymore. I'll be stuck, and it'll be impossible."
"Oh, Alice, haven't you learned yet? Nothing is impossible in Wonderland."
Alice's eyes widened. "Wonderland?"
"Yes, that's what you called it the first time you were here. I thought it was rather sweet…so imaginative. Tarrant thought so, at least…."
The White Queen's voice faded out as the flashbacks started. All those dreams she'd told her father about, all those nightmares, this world, everything was real. It didn't feel like such a revelation. She'd known, deep down, everything was real, but she hadn't been willing to believe it was real. Not recently, when all the jumbled feelings and morals made her continue to question her role, not only in this world, but back in her own world as well. Everything was real, though, in this world. The Hatter, the Red Queen, the castles, Stayne, the Jabberwocky…it was all real.
"Alice," Mirana called her attention back to her place in the field. "My dear, are you alright?"
"I…I have to go…" Alice turned her horse, ready to bolt.
"Alice, wait—"
"Majesty." One of the dodo birds came running through the fields, resting beside her. "They're coming."
A look of understand lit the Queen's face as she turned her own horse and galloped towards the castle. Alice, oblivious to the meaning behind the sudden departure, followed her in quick succession. They left their mounts at the entrance. Alice followed the Queen onto the balcony of her rooms, where a telescope stood. Mirana was staring from behind the glass, and upon Alice's entrance turned the scope to her. "We have company." The Queen stepped away, allowing the girl to place her eyes upon the sight of the Tweedles, McTwisp and most importantly the Hatter.
Alice followed the Queen in the rush downstairs to greet them. Alice ran on ahead, embracing the Hatter tightly. "I'm so glad you're alright."
"Oi, getting squished here," Mally's voice squeaked from beneath the Hatter's coat pocket. Alice instantly stepped out of the embrace, not noticing the curiosity that had formed in the Queen's eyes as she looked questioningly at Tarrant. "You're clumsier this size than you were when you were smaller."
"Sorry, Mally," Alice said, the smile still on her face. She decided to let the jab go. "I'm so glad to see you're alright, too." She glanced back at the Hatter. "I thought they were going to—"
"Now, now, no need to dwell on the past," Tarrant interrupted with his soft voice. "I'm here now, and you're here, in the proper size, and that's all that matters. What a great size it is too," he added.
Alice blushed. "Indeed." She frowned suddenly. "Where's your hat?"
"Right here," came the voice of the Cheshire Cat who appeared then, looking forlorn as he reluctantly handed the hat back to Tarrant. "Goodbye sweet hat..." He turned to Alice. "Arm's better now, I see. Good then. Mirana." He tilted his head to the Queen, who smiled tightly back as he disappeared.
Alice shook her head, unsure if she would ever get used to the mysteries of Underland. Just as she was about to speak, Mirana interrupted them. "Tarrant, a moment if you will." She twirled and Tarrant with one last bow to Alice turned to follow her. With a sigh, Alice followed them, watching as they turned into the gardens whilst she continued straight into the castle.
A little while later, the Hatter joined her out on the balcony. "Have you any idea why a raven is like a writing desk?"
Alice shook her head with a smile. "Not yet. Give me some time."
The Hatter cleared his throat after a following moment of silence. "So tomorrow is—"
"Frabjous Day. I don't think I'll forget any time soon."
"Indeed." The Hatter frowned suddenly. "The Queen informed me that you've no desire to be her champion."
"That's correct."
"Why not?"
"I just…keep hoping I'll wake up and not have to go through with any of it."
"You still think this is a dream?"
"No," Alice replied. She knew it wasn't, not anymore. "I'm just scared. What if I fail? What if I die? What if everyone dies? I'll be out there all alone, just me, a sword I've never used, and this giant creature almost as large as a castle. It just all sounds so mad."
"Since when has madness or fear every stopped you before?"
Alice thought for a moment. She had been letting fear rule her life. When her mother and sister began to teach and introduce her to society, she had remained silent, acting just as they expected her to, with laughter, gossip about things like babies and husbands, for fear that, should she pursue her interests in the business world and that of great philosophers and poets, she would be shunned and lose all connections that came with the expectations she was forced to abide by.
When she had suspected the truth about Lowell, and finally seen proof of his deceiving ways at the party, she had not told Margaret. Instead, she'd kept silent and gone on with the show. Instead of telling her mother and the Ascots that she had no interest in marrying Hamish—who, with or without his sensitive digestion, was without a doubt the least suitable, dullest creature on the face of the Earth—she had run away to Underland, a place she had long ago told herself was nothing but a dream, simply because she was afraid to face the reality of such a perverse fantasy.
Where was the girl who longed for adventure and danger? Where was the girl who had defied the Red Queen? Where was the girl who had stood up in a courtroom full of strangers, more than a dozen feet high, as she'd told the truth and saved an innocent man from punishment of a crime he did not commit? She should not—no, could not—let her insecurities get in the way of her dreams.
"I could teach you, if you like. How to use the Vorpal sword, that is."
Alice looked up questioningly at the red-haired gentleman. "You would?"
The Hatter smiled. "Come closer. Good, right there." The Hatter reached behind himself and displayed an ordinary black and silver sword. "For tomorrow," he explained plainly. "I'm no warrior, but I can at least teach you some simple maneuvers." He took a pose, and demonstrated slowly, yet surely, a thrust, a jab, and most importantly how to strike. Then it was Alice's turn, and the Hatter's voice took on his deep Scottish brogue as he began to instruct her. "Take the sword in your hand, given the Vorpal sword will be a bit heavier than this one, and take it by the handle with your right hand. Hold it right against the palm, letting the fingers curl tightly over the handle, allow movement, stand with your legs spread. Yes, just like that." He was directing her movements with his own legs and hands, hardly touching her other than to adjust her pose. "Now, show me what you've got." They worked at it a good hour, thrusting, jabbing, striking upwards and then downwards until she got the basic idea. They were both panting by the end of it. "There, just remember to use your back leg to take the weight and move positions. You'll be fine lass. You're a natural." He smiled brightly, his eyes warm and loving as they looked down at her.
Alice stared at him, his eyes so comforting, everything just perfect. Quite suddenly she felt the impulse to hug him tightly, which she gave in to. "Thank you, Tarrant. I do believe you've just helped me to find my muchness again."
"I have?" he asked, looking rather dazed.
Alice giggled. "Yes, you have. Thank you." She kissed him lightly upon his brow. "You're a good friend."
The Hatter patted her awkwardly. "That's all very well then, though you should go now to inform the Queen.
Still smiling, Alice turned away from the Hatter, walking down into the throne room where the White Queen was tending to the newly returned citizens. All looked up as Alice entered the room, standing tall and proudly as she addressed them. "I've decided. I will be your champion."
Applause filled the room, which came to a halt as the dormouse cried along the room. "No, I will—"
She was quickly interrupted by the chorus of:
"Oh shut up Mally."
Absolem came to visit her one last time upon the branch, only to inform her that this visit would be his last.
"Oh Absolem…" Alice stared, teary-eyed, at the caterpillar finishing his chrysalis before her.
"Stop crying, you stupid girl, I'm not dying. Simply transforming, as we all must eventually. I simply came to tell you this, so listen carefully now: the Vorpal sword knows what it wants. All you have to do is hold onto it. Now, dry your tears. It is not the end. Who knows, perhaps we will meet again in another life."
With that, the chrysalis closed and Absolem was no longer.
That night Alice heard a familiar hiss from outside the room. She quickly walked over to the balcony, expecting to see someone, anyone, but nothing appeared. Shaking her head and blaming lack of sleep, she returned to the bed when she noticed a note resting upon her pillow. Taking a look around the room once more, she grabbed the note and opened it quickly, her throat tightening at the words in the familiar script.
Good luck, little one.
S~s~S~s~S
On Frabjous Day Stayne was mounted atop Erebus, riding alongside Iracebeth who was carried by four soldiers on her dark carriage as the Red Knights marched behind them in militant rows. The day was sunny, too sunny for his taste, as it belied the bloodshed that was sure to ensue as they approached the battlefield.
The checkered field stood directly between the two kingdoms. The White Queen, all her knights and soldiers, including the Hatter, surrounded her. Stayne's eye was almost immediately locked on Alice, who rode atop the bandersnatch with Vorpal sword in hand. Somehow she appeared smaller than he remembered…
"Stayne." Iracebeth drew him back to her, hand outstretched. Ilosovic immediately dismounted and lifted her by the hand. Iracebeth stood proudly as she walked towards Mirana, looking every bit a warrior.
"On this, the Frabjous Day, the queens both Red and White come forth…" The White Rabbit rambled between them.
"Racie," Mirana whispered fiercely. "Won't you reconsider—"
"No, it is my crown! I am the eldest! And I will not just let you take it away, like you took away everything else!"
"Racie, I never—"
"Silence! Jabberwocky, come forward!"
"Champions, come forward," the White Rabbit muttered uselessly, hopping off to the White Queen's side as Alice was pushes toward the center of the checkered floor, watching along with everyone else as the Jabberwocky awoke from his long rest, screeching as he swooped down in front of the blonde.
"Hello, old foe. We meet on the battlefield once again."
"We've never met," Alice bit back, staying in the stance Hatter had taught her, whilst the dragon-like creature circled her menacingly.
"Not you, insignificant bearer. The Vorpal One," he growled.
"That's enough chatter." Alice then struck upwards at the unsuspecting creature, cutting off his tongue. The Jabberwocky reared back its ugly head, and then smashed back down hard, using its tail to throw Alice face-first into the ground, the Vorpal sword flying out of her hands.
While Alice lay struggling trying to lift herself in the heavy suit, the Jabberwocky approached, eyes blazing. She was trapped, helpless as the beast drew ever nearer. Stayne watched pathetically from the Queen's side, fighting the urge to run forward when Tarrant Hightopp took stead and chose in that moment to intervene, poking at the creature's tail with his sword, effectively distracting him and allowing Alice to stand and retrieve her weapon.
"He's interfering! Off with his head!" Stayne immediately grabbed his own sword, with the Red and White Knight's simultaneously approached one another in rapid formation. Here the true chaos began. While Alice was running from the Jabberwocky, higher and higher into unknown destinations, Stayne had begun to strike against Tarrant whose fiery eyes bore into his onyx ones.
"Well, well, if it isn't the man who simply wouldn't die." Stayne smirked, blocking as the Hatter struck cruelly.
"Happy to see me, are you?" the Hatter said, blocking Stayne's own attack.
"Not particularly," the Knave replied snidely. "Just thinking about how best to rectify that situation…"
"Funny, I was just thinking the same about you." The Hatter approached once more.
"Hmm, I wonder how Alice would react to that."
The Knave smirked as he saw the Hatter slow in his movement before the Knave thrust forward, which the red-headed gentleman quickly reciprocated with a downward strike. Stayne noted it was more forceful than earlier.
"I'm sure she'd be glad I'd rid the world of another evil…"
"Really," Stayne speculated, releasing and readied himself for another attack. "She didn't seem to mind so much when she kissed me. And I assure you, I was just as evil then as I am now." He stood, waiting for the man's reaction to the news.
The effect was almost instantaneous. The Hatter cried out, his screams traveling across the field as he was suddenly all thrust, plunging and striking at the Knave, who refused to back down. "Liar!"
"You wish." In that moment Mallymkun, riding atop Bayard, came bounding between the two, taking Stayne off-guard. As he lost his footing, the Hatter chose in that moment to jab a pin into his eyes, causing him to wince and fall off balance completely, his sword falling to the ground, which the Hatter sent skittering off to the side with his foot. He hovered over Ilosovic, sword ready to plunge into his chest when a cry was heard, carried above the chaos:
"Off with your head!"
All eyes turned upwards, watching as the Vorpal sword plunged down upon the Jabberwocky's head, which surely began to fall down the stairs right before the feet of the Red Queen. Alice stood at the top of the steps of what used to be the castle of the King and Queen of old, looking victorious as she smiled to the crowd.
"Kill her!" The Queen muttered pathetically.
One of the Red Knights replied, "We serve you no more, Bloody Big Head."
The Hatter looked down upon his hands, which still held the sword tightly, refusing to back away. Only the call of his Queen called him off, causing him to breathe as he reluctantly stepped away from the Knave, shaking the fury from his eyes as he turned to look for his hat. Ilosovic, meanwhile, took the chance to stand, able to watch as the crown flew from the Red Queen's head to the White Queen. Mirana smiled as it rested on her head, and then she turned her attention, and her displeasure, toward her sister.
"Iracebeth of Crims, your crimes against Underland are…"
Ilosovic was barely listening, his attention focused on Alice as she slowly made her way down the steps, her stand unsteady. Sweat trickled down her brow and she seemed to stumble every now and then, although he was unsure if it was from pain or something else. She appeared otherwise unharmed.
"…until the end of Underland." The White Queen turned her sights upon Ilosovic, who seemed to sense the call for attention. "And you, Ilosovic Stayne, you will join Iracebeth in the Outlands, banished for life."
Stayne said nothing except, "Majesty, won't you reconsider?"
"My word is spoken," Mirana said coolly. "Chain the prisoners."
"At least we'll be together," Iracebeth added with childish glee.
Stayne said nothing else, even as the Red Knights who, despite their constant blank looks, appeared remorseful as they placed the chains of eternity upon his wrist. He was their commander, and despite it all, he had won their respect. As the guards led them, however, Alice, upon reaching the bottom of the steps, watched as Stayne reached with his free hand into his pocket, grasping a knife which he held, ready to plunge into Iracebeth's side. Alice then recalled Stayne's words from before:
"If I am to gain salvation, it will be at my own hands."
The realization caused Alice's heart to race, and just as she was about to cry out an end to it, an even more chilling sight caused her view as she watched Tarrant draw out a knife of his own which he threw freely, straight at Stayne heart. Alice ran forward. "No!" She jumped atop Stayne's form, effectively halting his attack, and feeling the painful bite of the Hatter's blade as it plunged into her right shoulder, between the spaces of the armor. Stayne caught her small form, his arms tightening along her waist as they along with Iracebeth, who cried out in that nauseating voice, "He tried to kill me!" and "Stayne!", went tumbling towards the ground. The sound of Stayne's deep voice trickled into Alice's as she struggled to remain focused. "I thought I told you not to interfere, you stupid girl. What were you thinking?"
"Even you deserve to have your soul," Alice croaked, eyes closing halfway as she fell into oblivion.
S~s~S~s~S
Alice awoke to a dark room. She lay atop a crisp white mattress, and her armor had been removed sometime while she was asleep, replaced instead with a simple pale blue nightgown. There was still light outside, so she couldn't have been asleep for long. The first thing she noticed however was the dark lone figure that stood a few feet away, sitting atop his own bed, eyes staring straight at her.
"You're awake," Ilosovic said in greeting.
"You're here, unguarded," she said, making a move to stand, gasping at the acute pain that coursed through her arm at the feel of the bandage pressing upon her injured shoulder, covered by the gown. "Here I thought I was done being hurt…" Stayne remained silent, watching passively from his seat. "Does this mean that they let you go?"
"Careful little one, we wouldn't want you to tire yourself out so soon." Stayne shrugged. "I've friends among enemies." He motioned to the Red Knight that entered to glance over at them, having been alerted by the noise and returned to his post. "They're deliberating what exactly they're going to do with me. That little stunt you pulled caused quite a scandal." His eye bored into hers, making her swallow.
"What happened exactly?"
"After you jumped in the way Iracebeth began to scream, crying out at how I'd tried to kill her. She pushed and punched me until she was forcefully removed, the action of which caused me to dislocate my shoulder." He indicated his own bandaged arm, which Alice had not noticed. It was so strange to see him wear something other than black. "They removed the chains and brought me here while the Queen consults with her advisors of how best to handle the situation."
"Glad I could be of help."
"Not quite." Stayne's voice took on an air of ire. "You should have simply let it be, Alice."
It felt strange to her how almost every time he said her name it was always in anger. "You were going to kill her, you would have been imprisoned. And worse, Tarrant was going to kill you. They would have arrested you for murder, or you would have been murdered. I couldn't let you lose your—"
"Lose my what? My life? My soul? What life? What soul? The Red Queen has lost. All I've known and lov- known, is gone. What have I now but to wait to be shoved into some pretty little cell or taken into exile. As for the rest... Well, you would have been the only one who cared. That's not the point, Alice; it was not your place to intervene. This was my battle, not yours. It was a stupid, childish thing you did back there. That's it, though, isn't it: you're nothing but a child. Foolish girl…you got hurt. You could have been killed! Even I thought you had more sense in you than that." The insults stung harder than Alice could have imagined.
"Would you have simply preferred me to have let you die?"
"Yes!" Stayne cried.
The Red Knight from before returned. "Is everything alright, Miss Alice?" the guard's gruff voice rang, looking between the two with unhidden suspicions.
"I'm fine," Alice said, her voice steady even as she trembled. The Red Knight looked at the blonde with concern, giving a pointed look at Stayne, though he eventually left once more.
Like the sun on the earth, something dawned on Alice. "You did it on purpose, didn't you?" she muttered, looking up at the man in black who stood before her, eyes blank. "You knew it would come down to this, to you being trapped alongside Iracebeth, and you had no intention of staying that way. That's why you asked me not to interfere in the first place. You wanted him to kill you, provoked him into doing it somehow. You were counting on it. It's the same reason you attacked Iracebeth in public. It all came down to getting caught."
"Don't try to judge things you don't understand," Stayne bit back at her, turning on his heel. Alice stood from the bed, remaining two steps behind him.
"Oh? Why don't you explain it to me then?"
Stayne halted, turning on his heel to face her, closing the distance between them in one stride. "You want to understand?" he snarled. "Here's what there is to understand: this is a kill or be killed world, Alice. You're right, I did provoke the Hatter. I made him sure he would want to kill me. I left him angry, hurt, betrayed, and just when he was about to strike the battle was over. I entered this war knowing I would escape by my hand or by another's. I would have killed Iracebeth, too. It would have been mercy, and justly deserved if you asked anyone here."
"She loved you," Alice accused.
Stayne laughed darkly. "It was not love, it was obsession. That's her way with things. She can't love, at least not for very long. She's incapable of it simply because no one is capable of loving her in return. The only ones who ever tried were the King and the Duchess, and look what happened to them." He paused for effect. "Oh, don't give me that look. Certainly, she would have been pleased, happy even, but in constant need of assurance and company. In the end, she would have driven both me and herself insane. Ours is not a tale of love dear, sweet, naïve little Alice, but of lust, fear, murder, and death. We used each other to get what we wanted, and we prospered, but she would have done me in herself if the need arose. Certainly it might have seemed tragic, but there would have been no true loss for either one of us. Eventually we'd forget about the other, and life would continue. I did what I had to survive: kill Iracebeth and live a life of solitude, or be killed by Tarrant and save myself the effort." He spoke the words with a hint of remorse and added, "I told you before, little one: I'm not a kind man."
The White Rabbit stepped into the tent then, the two Red Knights following closely behind as they took their positions, one alongside Stayne, the other next to Alice. McTwisp hopped towards the pair. "Ahem. The White Queen calls you forward. Both of you," he added pointedly, feeling as though he were intruding somehow. The Red Knights led the pair towards the checkered board, which had been transformed in a short while into a makeshift courtroom. Mirana was seated atop a high chair, with Tarrant standing at her side. All the citizens had been separated into two groups, acting as both audience and jury. The space between them acted as an entry way for the pair lead by McTwisp.
All the earlier euphoria from the White Queen's triumph seemed to have dissipated until all that was left was anticipation and anxiety, none as great as Alice's, whose stomach seemed to house a hornet's nest at the rate at which it was churning.
McTwisp hopped forward before the Queen, turning to address all. "Court is now in session. Will the accused please step forward?"
Stayne stepped forward accordingly as McTwisp removed a scroll from his hands, clearing his throat as he announced, "Ilosovic Stayne, you have been accused of trickery and deceit, along with the attempted murder of Iracebeth of Crims, sister of Queen Mirana of Marmoreal, daughter of the King and Queen of old, and true ruler of Underland. The crime of which for such treason is death. How do you plead?"
"Guilt—"
"No, stop! Stop!" cried Alice, stepping beyond Stayne before the Queen. "On what grounds?"
"Excuse me?" McTwisp squeaked.
"Alice…" Stayne warned, eye flashing. Alice ignored him.
"On what grounds is the defendant accused?"
"Attempted murder of a—"
"Then why is the Hatter not on the stand for attempted murder of the accused? Why, when he has not only blatantly tried to kill a royal, but caused injury as well." To emphasize, Alice ripped down the sleeve of her gown, revealing the wound beneath.
"The witness was not called…" the Rabbit said pathetically, unable to stop the display.
The Hatter looked startled at the suggestion, as did Mirana, who sheepishly spoke, "Alice, please be reasonable. We shall discuss this later."
"No, we will not. Is the murder of a royal so much more important than that of an ordinary citizen? What of your vows Mirana, those that prohibit you from harming a living creature?" She looked at the Queen expectantly, though it was the Hatter who answered instead.
"Alice," Tarrant spoke, looking thoroughly distressed. "He's a murder, a thief, a liar. He said you kissed him!" he cried out, causing many to gasp, including the Rabbit who crumpled into a faint.
Alice stared at the Hatter. "I did, and what of it? What relevance does his charachter or his past for that matter hold when all is previous crimes have already been judged by the Queen's initial sentence of banishment? None. Not when the Queen's own integrity is under dispute." She looked up at the Queen. "You vowed to not cause harm to any living creature, and yet here we stand on the decision of whether or not to sentence a man to death for attacking a former royal, which while punishable was merely a way in which the excused sought to correct the dilemma the Queen herself had presented him with. Who here wouldn't have done the same in his situation?" She turned to face her ever attentive audience of the court. "I present to this court the notion that by Queen Mirana's own sentence in the of banishment of Iracebeth of Crims and Ilosovic Stayne created a hostile environement that would have eventually lead to violent results by either party if not both. If not here then surely in the Outlands were they were to be sent. By this logic, the Queen was in fact causing harm by means of emotional, physical, and psychological distress that would eventually destroy the two individuals. It also contradicted the Queen's sentenceo f her sister who was not to have any friends in her banishment. She would have instead had an enemy, one who simply chose to act here in a public setting, rather than in private, where he might instead influence the influence the court into reaching a much more fatal end to an otherwise hate-filled existence." She glanced at Stayne as she said the words. "Thereby Queen Mirana has broken her vow and is therefore to blame."
The court erupted into a flurry of furious protests and noise, at which the now conscious Rabbit tried to calm. "Order! Order in the court!"
"Silence." The Queen herself stood then, making her way down from the chair to stand alongside Alice. All noise suddenly fell away, the courtiers looking up at their monarch as they waited to hear her words. "Thank you. I'm afraid the girl is indeed correct. Stayne's character is not in question here, nor is his past. And as Alice kindly pointed out, the Hatter's own actions which while on one hand were explained earlier during recess as an attempt to stop further injury against my sister, as well as influenced by the Hatter's own mad nature, still resulted in the injury of an innocent, something which cannot be as simply dismissed. Therefore it must be addressed as having caused injury, or harm, to a fellow subject. Now upon deliberation, neither crime holds more or less cause for action, but this double standard remains which must indeed be addressed. Alice's logic is sound. However, some crimes cannot be unforgotten, just as some characters cannot be underjudged," She said with a certain resigned tone. "Therefore, Ilosovic Stayne," she said, turning to the knave as she spoke, "as my sister is sent off into the Outlands, you will be sentenced instead to live in exile outside of either court or kingdom though you are free in all other sense," she clipped tersely, turning to Alice. "As the injured party to Tarrant's action, you are well within your right to charge. How would you care to proceed?" Alice could have sworn she read anxiety in her expression.
"Not at all my lady. I will not be pressing charges."
The relief was evident as the Queen relaxed. "Excellent…court dismissed!" All looked stunned and in shock at what had happened, neither able to believe Alice's defense had worked. The crowd began to separate. Parties were being planned, families reunited, and all were invited back to the castle. However, Mirana, the Hatter, McTwisp, Chess, Bayard, Mallymkun, Alice, and Stayne remained behind.
Mirana was the first to break the awkward silence, looking to Ilosovic, her voice hard. "You are a lucky man, Ilosovic Stayne, a free man. I'll trust you not to waste this opportunity." She then turned to Alice, a smile forming as she patted her head awkwardly. "You've done well, my champion. Underland is in your debt, and while I cannot display my gratitude in ways you would understand, know that it is everlasting and true, and that we will be here for you, whatever you decide." She pressed a small glass bottle into Alice's hands, giving them a tight squeeze before releasing them.
"What's this?" Alice asked, holding the dark liquid to the light.
"Blood from the Jabberwocky. I thought you might need it if you wish to return…"
"Will this take me home?" Alice asked with sudden realization.
"If that is what you wish." Mirana smiled gently, running her palm smoothly down her cheek. "I'll be watching for your Futterwacken tonight Tarrant!" she called as a last goodbye, before twirling away from sight, the twins, and rabbit following after her, leaving Alice among cat and mouse and the two men she knew would demand her attention.
"Alice…" The Knave stepped forward, only to be stopped by Tarrant's intrusion as he pressed his hand upon her back, leading her away from Ilosovic into the privacy of the rocks. Ilosovic clenched his fists in frustration, hardly noticing as Erebus came to his side.
The dark horse neighed. "Is that her?"
Ilosovic stared as Alice's blonde head disappeared from view. "I couldn't tell you."
The creature snorted. "Humans."
Tarrant released Alice once seclusion was assured, though he continued to pace and watch anxiously, not trusting anyone at the moment.
Alice sighed at the display. "Tarrant, I'm sorry I—"
"No, I'm sorry Alice," the Hatter rambled on. "My foolishness—no, my madness nearly got you killed. I apologize. You must believe me when I say I would never have…but my madness got in the way and, oh Alice…I've lost it, haven't I?"
Alice smiled gently at the tortured soul, daring to step closer as she took his face into her hands. "Yes, you're mad; bonkers, really, insane perhaps, but you should never be ashamed of it. It's what makes you…you, and I'll tell you a secret…" she whispered in conspirator tones, "only the best people are."
The Hatter smiled then, seeming to relax into the deep blue eyes that stared back at him. Tarrant pulled her into a tight embrace, letting Alice rest her head upon his shoulder in thought, not noticing the way his jaw tightened pensively. "A part of me wishes you hadn't interfered, though, madness or no."
Alice frowned, firming her grip on his back. "Don't say that."
"But Alice," the Hatter stepped back, turning her chin up to meet his gaze, "how could you… everything you did for and with him? After all he's done? All his lies and wrongdoings and—"
"No, just no," Alice said, stepping away from him. "I don't expect you to understand, it's just…all you see is his past. What he was, what he's done, and while one can't exclude that from his character, from memories… They're not my memories. I have to judge him based upon what I've seen now, these days, starting from the teapot."
"A monster, cruel, kidnapper, thief, uncaring, traitorous…"
"No." Alice stopped his speech. "He protected me from the Queen. Time and time again he hid me from everyone else as best he could. He kept my secret even when I was big again, even when I was exposed. He fed me, took care of me…he helped me escape, Tarrant. The Vorpal sword, everything. He did it all, and while I don't exactly understand why, he never had any thought to himself."
"He asked you to defend him—"
"No, he didn't. He didn't want me to intervene, but I did it nonetheless. Why? Because he's helped me in ways you'd never understand, Tarrant. He deserves a second chance."
The Hatter sighed. "I still don't trust him."
Alice smiled. "I'm not asking you to."
"And don't expect me to Futterwacken in his presence any time soon."
"I wouldn't care to witness such a disgusting display should I have the opportunity," Stayne's silky drawl came from the side, startling both. Tarrant's eyes flashed red. "Tarrant."
"Stayne." The Hatter's stance became protective as he stood before Alice, blocking her from view.
Ilosovic tutted. "Now, now, you've had her long enough. It's my turn. You should learn to share your dolls," he teased with a smirk on his face at the Hatter's flushed one. Tarrant still refused to move.
"Hatter," Alice's soft voice called to him, as she placed a reassuring hand on his arm. "I'll be fine. Go." The Hatter frowned back at her, and finally moved, though not before purposefully bumping into the Knave's injured side, who merely gritted his teeth to suppress any ill words before leaving the two alone.
"You know, I never noticed what large hands you have. Your fingers themselves would draw the envy of any pianist."
"Alice…" The Knave approached.
"Or your legs, why they must be a mile long… even though that's quite impossible I suppose. Apparently nothing is impossible here, though."
"Alice…"
"Or your ears. I know I insulted them earlier, which was terribly wrong of me, but one must really appreciate a man with large ears…"
"Alice."
"Your nose, your mouth…all so large. I bet even your tongue is large, though perhaps not so. Mouths are often quite deceiving."
The Knave smirked. "It's my cross to bare. Now if you would stop changing the subject—"
"Even your eye. I know you've only one, but I'm sure its size is enough for two, and—oh," Alice gasped as the Knave's strong hands encased her arms, forcing her to stop her rambling.
"I'd appreciate it if you'd stop stalling, Miss Kingsleigh. It's very ill-mannered of you." He frowned. "Alice. Alice…Alice, look at me." Her eyes instinctively snapped up to meet his.
"Yes?"
He kissed her then, his lips molding themselves perfectly against hers. He placed all emotions into the kiss, feeling sheer gratitude to whichever god had sent him this salvation. He hardly noticed how she remained unresponsive, not wanting to, perhaps. It was until…
"Wait, what are you doing?" she asked, pulling away from him with a horrified gaze.
"Thanking you," he muttered quietly as he began to nibble and suck on her neck.
"Stop, stop it. I don't want this." Alice pushed him away from her. "I can't do this…"
Stayne frowned. "Do what?"
"This. You know what I'm talking about. This, with us. This isn't a relationship. This is not even a friendship. I barely know you. Until a few days ago I had forgotten about this world completely. I was about to be engaged, albeit to man I detest. But I had a life. I have a life, a home, and this…this isn't it."
Stayne's eyes narrowed dangerously. "Is it because of the Hatter? Is it him you want?" His fists clenched.
"No. Gods, no…I…it's…it's both of you. It's everyone. I simply can't. I don't know who I am anymore and it frightens me. I'm done playing the role of being the Queen's champion and courtier. I have to go back to the real world. I have duties, family... I faced death twice today, and yet here I stand more scared of you than anything else I've faced since I've been here."
His eye turned cold at her words. Is it not better to be feared than loved? "And what if this is love?"
Alice laughed. "You mean this game between us? This constant turmoil of having to figure out who I am, what I'm meant to be, what others expect of me, and with whom? You've made me question myself time and time again…and while you're holding answers I'm certain, there are simply some things I don't think I'll ever be able to understand about you. You told me yourself you don't love, and yet you come here to propose otherwise. Well let me tell you: this is not love, not by any definition. Love is selfless and without restraint. Love is open and honest and true. I know now that I'll never be able to trust you. Not now, and perhaps not ever. There are only so many barriers I can break before I do; I need to stay simple, sane, I need certainty in my life. I can't have that with you." She sniffed. "This is not love, and don't you dare pretend otherwise." She turned to go back to the group.
"I won't run after you," Stayne said, making Alice freeze. She turned around to face him.
"I'm sorry?"
"You're running away again. I won't be chasing after you. Not again," he said quietly, the words final. "You'll have to find me next time."
Time stood still until Alice replied coolly, "Then I hope you enjoy disappointment."
She walked back to the group of smiling friends, just as Tarrant had finished his third Futterwacken. All looked pleased except Tarrant, who appeared concerned.
Alice forced herself to smile. "I just wanted to thank all of you, and that you've been so good to me. I haven't felt so free in ages, so I thank you." With that, she popped open the bottle of Jabberwocky blood, bringing it to her lips, when she was stopped by the Hatter, who now stood in front of her.
"You could stay." His bright green eyes looked so hopeful.
Alice smiled. "What a crazy, marvelous idea." She glanced back once more at Stayne, and though she couldn't see him physically, somehow she just knew he was watching from the shadows. "But I can't. Really, I can't…" She smiled back at the Hatter, her eyes becoming teary. "I think I'll might miss you the most. Goodbye…" She tipped the liquid into her mouth, spluttering as the world went black.
"Fairfarren Alice…"
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