The Time Has Come (ch.7)
Title:The Time Has Come
Chapter Title: Playing Both Sides of the Looking Glass
Author: greeneyes0911
Pairing: Alice/Hatter, Jack/Duchess
Characters: Charlie, Hatter, Jack, Duchess, Alice, and two OCs (Savy & Topper)
Rating: r-ish (for language & later evil torture)
Length: 7,300+
Warnings/Spoilers: The entire miniseries
A/N: Oh I do love that you love it! Thanks for all the lovely comments! This is going to being to slowly crossover with 10th k, but only character wise and vague mentions of the other nine kingdoms. So a summary of 10th k will serve you enough for the reading of this.
Disclaimer: I don't own Alice, Hatter, March Hare, any of 'em....but damn would I be rich if I did!
Our heroes find themselves at the mouth of a cave. A cave
that leads to a labyrinth. A labyrinth that leads to...
who knows.
Topper never in his life asked for permission. To be honest he had just never felt the need. He had been raised, as Hatter and Wolf had, to con people out of what he wanted and to forget how it effected others. It had always been about survival for them, primarily survival of themselves. Things had changed. Somewhere along the line Hatter's primary concern had shifted from his own happiness and survival to the happiness of Alice. That was something Topper didn't really understand. He also didn't understand why he suddenly felt like he needed permission just to speak to Savannah. He felt like somehow she was better than him. Above him. It just didn't make any sense. There was no reason for him to feel that way. Sure, she'd saved him, but he'd saved her as well. He thought perhaps it was the lack of motive that bothered him. He had saved her because if he didn't someone else would, and that someone else would be reckless. And that recklessness would lead to someone getting hurt and then this mission would be a complete wash. She, on the other hand, had no reason to save his life. Yes, he was the only one who knew where the underground palace was, but that shouldn't matter to her because she'd like to go home anyways. So surely his subsequent death would ruin the journey and she'd get her wish. Then why did she save him? He thought on it for a long while, all day in fact, and could come up with no decent answer aside from the fact that she did it simply because she could, and because it had been the right thing to do. Now that was a foreign concept to him, the right thing to do. He was familiar with the right thing for me, the thing that would best help me, but never the right thing morally. His mind was sufficiently preoccupied with these thoughts as they came upon a hill that looked down into a small valley. Said small valley played host to a large opening in the mountain. Said large opening hid the underground labyrinth that lead to Aceline Heart's lair.
“Topper,” Alice said in irritation, and he shook himself mentally just realizing she'd been calling him for the past several minutes. “Is this the place?”
Topper looked down at the opening and practically gulped, this was it. They'd know soon enough about him. They'd know the truth. And he could already see the disgust in those vibrant green eyes as they turned on him in realization. She would hate him when she found out. She'd be disgusted with him when she realized. He didn't know if he could bear that. “Yeah this is it.”
“Well, what are we waiting for,” Charlie asked rising from his crouched position and readying himself to run head long into the dangers of the cave as if he feared nothing.
“No,” Topper stopped the old man with a hand on his arm, and even Charlie looked confused. “We should get some weapons first. I know where the cave that stores the weaponry for that place is. They don't guard it because they assume no one will make it this far. We should go there.”
“Weapons,” Savy said in a tone that sounded something like nervousness. She'd always preferred fighting with her hands. She'd never really used weapons, and she'd been in a number of fights over the years. She did suppose though that there was a first time for everything, and that maybe they would be necessary this time. If it was necessary she had no choice, not really. Topper only nodded, and started leading them in the direction of what she assumed was a cave that held weapons. The very thought of it set Savy's nerves on edge. What she didn't know, was that she wasn't the only one who was weary of this form of combat. Alice as well was wearing on the inside of her cheek as she thought of the need for weapons. She knew of Wonderland's dependence on artillery, but that didn't mean she liked it. In fact quite the opposite, the only time she'd ever used a gun was here in Wonderland, and the cold metal had sent her into jitters. They followed anyways, because in truth what choice did they have? There was a small mouth of a cave in the mountains, but was completely unguarded. The lack of guards had the whole group worried, well not Topper, but everyone else.
“I have a weapon. I am a knight, I always have my sword with me. I will stand guard to be sure you are safe.” Charlie's voice didn't waver as he took up his post on the outside of the cave and turn a sharp eye to the outside of the cave. Topper rolled his eyes, but everyone else just nodded. A small shudder ran up Alice's spine as she faced walls covered in guns, swords, daggers, and any other kind of weapon imaginable. She really didn't like the idea of pointing a gun at someone, much less having someone else pointing a gun at her. But she knew that if a gun was pointed at one of her companions then she'd have to do something to help, and maybe a gun was her only option.
“Hatter,” Topper said holding out a small pistol. Hatter nodded and tucked it into the back of his pants while Topper took another and followed suit. “And for the ladies,” he pulled down three small hand guns that could easily be tucked into a boot.
“No thanks,” Savy said backing away from the extended hand with the cool metal gun. “I'll take my chances with a blade before I'll touch one of those.” Topper quirked a dark brow, but didn't push the subject. Neither did Hatter nor Alice, they both knew she had a severe aversion to weapons especially guns. They had never found out why, but they knew it as a fact. And they'd never dream of pushing something like that on Savy when she was so severally uncomfortable with it. Duchess however, took one of the small guns and tucked it into her boot. Alice followed along, tucking a gun into her own boot. Meanwhile Savy drifted over to the swords, and pulled down one of the lighter blades before buckling the shelf around her waist.
“Can you even use that,” Topper asked with a frown.
“No, but ya're goin' to teach 'er,” a wide grin spread over Hatter's face at the distressed look Topper gave him. Sparing required close combat, and cooperation, and... and... and... Topper just didn't like it. He didn't have to have a reason. Other than how attractive a woman capable with a sword could be. Wait, no he didn't just think that. He didn't at all.
“Right, that'll do since none of us can, and I doubt Charlie would make for a good teacher.” Alice nodded along not noticing the wicked grin on her mate's face. She had gotten a little too accustomed to the way he always looked like he was up to something, so it really didn't phase her anymore.
An hour later found them setting up camp on the hill above the valley. Their sleeping bags had been left behind when they had been chased by the multi headed beast. That being the case everyone was trying to prepare themselves for a long night of sleeping on the ground. “Can't we just storm the place now,” Savy asked twirling her newly acquired sword around as she paced around the place where Charlie and Hatter were starting the fire.
“No, tomorrow night,” Topper said a little too quickly, causing everyone to look at him suspiciously.
“Why,” Alice asked quirking a dark brow. She had grown a little suspicious over the time of their journey. Yes, she still did think that Topper had a good side. She still did think that given the right amount of time with them he could be a good man, just like Hatter. It was just that now she wasn't sure how bad he was. Hatter hadn't been as deep into the bad as it seemed Topper was. And Alice didn't know if they could pull this boy back in time. And what if they couldn't? What would happen to all of them? How guilty would Topper feel?
“We need to rest. I need to teach Savannah how to sword fight. We need to be prepared.” Those all seemed like logical reasons. Topper liked logical reasons. Especially given the fact that these weren't exactly his reasons why. The more logical they seemed the better chance he'd have of them believing him.
“Savy,” Savy corrected with a slight frown, but Topper ignored her. Instead he stared intently at Alice almost willing her to believe his lie.
“Right, that sounds about right,” Alice confirmed finally with a nod. Hatter wasn't convinced, and it showed in his puppy brown eyes. Ever since really learning to feel he hadn't been able to hide his emotions. Especially strong ones like distrust.
“Tha' sounds awfully convenien'. Like its on yar schedule,” Hatter added walking up to Alice and wrapping his arms around her torso from behind. He eyed Topper suspiciously over the dark haired girl's shoulder.
“Don't be ridiculous Hatter. I just want to ensure everyone's safety, and the best way to do that is if we're not tired, and Savannah is properly trained with that sword. You don't want anything to happen to them do you?” The question was posed with an arched brow and a straight face. But if Hatter didn't know any better, which he did, he would have sworn he saw a smirk peeking through that straight face. He knew Topper entirely too well, or he had known him too well, and he had to admit that even for him this seemed like a good lie.
“Savy,” Savy corrected for the second time, and was ignored once more.
“Don' ya even suggest tha',” Hatter growled out his arms tightening around Alice's waist almost painfully. Alice squeaked a little, but didn't say anything. She just stood still while Hatter glared at Topper.
“Relax old Hat. Nothing will happen to your girlfriend so long as we keep our head about things. And that's all I'm trying to do, is keep my head about this. So just relax. I know you don't want anything to happen to Alice, Savannah, or the others. So just calm down,” Topper held up his hands in some form of surrender, but Hatter wasn't really sure he believed it. Yes, he'd seen in Topper's eyes the same strange obsession he'd had with Alice when she'd first trotted (minus the trotting of course) into his teashop. But was that fascination enough for Topper to want to keep her safe? And to what lengths would Topper go to keep his obsession alive? He didn't want to think about it.
“Savy,” the red head corrected again this time from right behind Topper, and with a serious growl to her voice. Alice nodded, and turned to pull Hatter with her to the edge of the fire leaving Topper to whirl around and meet the annoyed eyes of one dangerous little red head with a very pointy sword in her hand.
“Savannah, put the sword down.”
“The. Name. is. Savy.” Each word was punctuated with a step until the blade was held to his throat, and Topper gulped audibly. “Call me Savannah one more time and see what happens.”
“You win.” Hands were raised in surrender, and the sword was lowered but only far enough so that his neck was no longer in danger. “Are you sure you don't already know how to use a sword?”
“I know how to use a long pointy object as well as any street rat, but a sword is a horse of a different color,” she said her eyes examining the sword as though looking for flaws, or some magical instructions on the blade. “I never planned to ever be in a position where I'd have to sword fight my way out, and I don't think I ever will be again.”
“Shall we begin then?”
“If you think you can wrestle Charlie's sword from him.” There was a shrug of small shoulders, and she turned on her heel to find an open space. Hatter and Alice found a seat to watch, and Alice looked more than a little pleased with the girl before her. Alice had taught Savy most of what she knew, and watching her best someone who was experienced in sword play would be amusing.
“I would be more than willing to give up my sword for a few hours so that this Harbinger can teach his lady how to protect herself.” Charlie said offering Topper his sword, and bowing his head to Savy. Savy in turn curtsied goofily, and grinned widely.
“But I thought ladies oughtn't get their hands dirty,” Duchess said from the residence she'd taken up behind Hatter and Alice. She was standing there arms crossed and a slightly amused expression on her face. It was needless to say that she was looking forward to watching the prideful mister Topper be bested by the slight Savy. Duchess had taken a shine to the girl recently, especially as she watched the girl stand her ground against Topper. It seemed like she would not be charmed, nor backed into a corner by the boy. And any woman could respect that.
“Well if the Harbinger is incapable of keeping her safe,” Charlie shot Topper a warning look. “Then she must of course know how to protect herself.”
“By which he means tha' Topper best protec' Savy or there will be the devil ta pay,” Hatter grinned widely as Charlie nodded and took the seat beside him.
“Keep that in mind harbinger. It is your job to protect your lady.” There was a certain gravity to Charlie's words that Topper felt right down to his toes. And for a brief second he really did feel it was his job to protect Savannah. It was his job to be sure that Aceline wouldn't hurt her. His job to be sure that the beasts of the forest wouldn't eat her. His job to be sure that she would never feel pain again. His job to bring a smile to her face. His job. And then he mentally shook himself, and reminded himself that this was just an obsession. And that Aceline could bloody well have this scrawny annoying little girl if she wanted the girl. He wouldn't risk his head to save her's. There was a loud clanking noise and he looked up abruptly to find Savy standing very close, so close he could smell the forest in her hair, and her sword against his.
“Well? Is this a lesson or a tea session? Come on,” the smirk was back on her thin pink mouth, and Topper found himself wondering how she could be so highly amused in a time like this. She spun out of the way, causing her hair to flutter behind her and the smell of the forest to float even further into his head. This was such a bad idea.
“Don't turn your back to an opponent,” Topper chided and when she spun back his sword was to her throat. “Tsk, tsk, silly girl how will you get yourself out of this one?”
“Play nice Topper, we'd like to keep our Savy in one piece,” Alice called breaking the moment, and Topper rolled his eyes before lowering his sword.
“Yes, take care not to wound her,” Duchess added much to the surprise of everyone listening but no one's eyes strayed from the dueling pair to look at her in confusion.
“Then she ought to take care to pay attention,” Topper ground out as she was soon at him again. There were several loud clanks before they found themselves in a stand still each putting all the strength they could into the blade in their hand trying to shove the other to the ground. Savy growled at the effort, the man-child was stronger than she was there was no doubt, but she wouldn't be seen giving up. Finally brute strength won out, and Savy fumbled backward onto her butt. “Again,” Topper said pulling her to her feet. More loud clanky, more jabs and blocks, more fumbles and stand stills. The crowd became restless and moved on to do other things.
Hatter, and Alice stood several feet away from the camp still listening to the clanking noise as he taught her how to aim a gun. “Pull it out,” He instructed, and Alice sighed a little. “Come on now ya can' be scared of it Alice. Ya 'ave ta own it. Tha doesn' make ya do anythin', ya make tha gun do stuff.”
Alice nodded with another sigh before pulling the gun from her boot. “You know how I feel about these things.”
“I do, but this time it's necessary. Ya 'ave ta protec' yarself if I can't.” He was behind her now, whispering in her ear, and kissing her cheek. “I can't afford ta lose ya.” It was so light she barely heard it, and it resounded heavily of terror. His warm breath on her ear sent a shiver up her spine, and not the bad kind in the least. “Don't do tha' luv, ya'll ge' me all distracted, and we 'ave no assured privacy.”
Alice chuckled lightly. “You never get enough do you?”
“Never ever. Come on now luv, stop talkin' dirty and let's get down ta business.”
“Now who's talking dirty?”
“I mean it,” Hatter groaned a little making Alice smirk. “Please stop.”
“Fine, fine. I'm done. No more Naughty Alice until we're home safe.”
“That's me girl. Now 'old tha gun up so tha' yar arm is horizontal ta tha ground.” Alice did as told, her hand shaking a little. “Take a deep breath Kettle, I'm 'ere with ya. No reason ta be all anxious.” He kissed her cheek again, and to Alice's surprise the feeling sent a calming wave through her causing her hand to stand still. “Tha'a girl.”
“Is that it?”
“No, course no'. Line it up with wha' yar aimin' at. Let's go with tha' tree for now. Close one eye.” Alice chuckled and turned to look at him like he was crazy. “Nah, I'm serious Love, jus' do it.”
“Well, which one,” She asked with a smirk.
“Stop playin' games Alice,” Hatter chided playfully.
“Alright, one eye closed. Now what?”
“Line it up, and fire.” Alice lined it up, but didn't pull the trigger. She didn't need to know how to pull a trigger, she just needed to know how to aim so if it became necessary that she did have to fire the blasted thing she could hit her target. She lowered her arm, and found herself immediately wrapped in Hatter's warm arms. They both turned to watch the dueling pair as the clanks got louder, and curse words started being attached to each clank.
“I'm still not sure that we can trust him. I mean he may have some good in him. He did save Savy, but how long before he puts himself before her?” Hatter sighed into her ear, and Alice shuddered a little.
“He likes 'er. I didn' wan' ta tell ya, cause I don' wan' ya gettin' yar hopes up that he'll change. To be honest I dunno that that one can change. Bu' he does have a thing for our lil' Savy.” Hatter's words were a whisper, they could have easily been mistaken for the wind if you weren't as close as Alice.
“Then he'll change.” Alice nodded firmly, but Hatter grumbled a little in disagreement. “He will Hatter. You changed, he'll change. We just have to give him a chance to prove himself. He'll change.”
“I hope ya're righ'. For his sake and hers. I 'ave this sinkin' feelin' we won't be able to keep our eye on 'er for much longer.” He didn't like that sinking feeling. It was making him exceedingly nervous. And the fact that Savy's fate may soon be in Topper's hands made him even more nervous. They continued to watch the two from a distance, at least here they knew Topper wouldn't go as easy on her just because they were watching.
“Come on Savannah, you have to mean it,” Topper growled at her as she was pushed to the ground again. “You can't be scared you're going to hurt me. You have to mean it!”
“I'm not scared,” another loud clank protruded the air as she went for his ribs and he blocked her, “I've just never fucking had to sword fight in my life!”
“It's basic fighting skills. You should have basic fighting skills. You've been in how many fist fights in your life?” He was growling from the effort. Topper wouldn't tell her but the girl was giving him a real run for his money. Just like Savy wouldn't admit out loud that the reason she kept losing was because he was actually physically stronger than her.
“Thousands, but that's different.” There were at a standstill again and Topper was glaring down on her.
“Why,” Topper's mouth asked of it's own volition. It really needed to stop doing that. Throughout this whole thing he'd been turning the scene from the cave over and over in his head, and he couldn't come up with a good reason as to why she helped him. It was really starting to get to him.
“Why what? Why is it different? Well I don't usually have this big hunking piece o-”
“No, why did you save me this morning,” He asked as he finally was able to shove her back enough so he could unlock his sword from her's. This time she didn't fall to the ground she just stumbled backwards and came at him once more.
“What? No thanks Savy for saving my sorry fucking hide? Just why? You are a weird one Topper.” She ground out blocking a jab at her right leg.
“Yes, just why. Now answer the bloody question!”
“No need to fucking yell at me you ass!” She finally landed a blow to his side and he winced before stilling, and putting up a hand to call for a break. “I saved you because you needed saving. I helped you because you needed helping. There was no other reason. You are one of a group now, a companion to us, like it or not. And so your sorry fucking hide means as much to me as mine does.” Her words came out breathlessly as she bent to catch her breath. Several loose strands of hair fell into her face, but she didn't seem to notice. “It's sort of like friends. You'd stick your neck out for a friend wouldn't you?” She looked up to find a queer expression on his face as if he'd never heard of that before. “Right, should have known. Well maybe I thought if you fucking saw what it was to be companions, and to mean as much to someone else as they mean to themselves that you'd fucking get it. That something like a conscious would sneak into that conniving fucking brain of yours. But I guess I was fucking wrong. Thanks for that. I've just lost all faith in fucking humanity.” With that she returned her sword to its sheath and walked away from him. Topper watched her retreating back as she made her way to the fire and settled in beside Hatter, his stomach sank a little and he didn't bother to wonder why. It was pointless to keep even acknowledging these feelings, it would all be over very soon, and to be honest he couldn't wait anymore. He just wanted it to be over so that he could move on with his life, and forget this silly little girl that fell into his life.
Soon Charlie was ushering everyone to bed as he vowed to take the first watch. Topper was scheduled for the second, and Hatter for the third. They wouldn't be taking any chances in the little time they had left to spend out in these woods. Topper didn't blame them really, these mountains were more dangerous than even he had thought originally. Had he known that he probably wouldn't have signed up for this mission at all. He was a right coward when it came down to the risking of his own neck. Hell, he'd even admit to it. And if he was willing to admit to it then it surely must be the Alfred's honest truth. How much of a coward he was was neither there nor here. What mattered was that little slip of a red head as getting into his head, and making him want to not be a coward anymore. And he just plum didn't have the courage to change.
The following day passed in relative silence. Everyone, including the slightly insane Charlie, seemed to notice a change in the atmosphere. There were several theories as to why the sudden change. Alright, that's a lie there were two theories. One that Savy, Topper, and Charlie held which was that everyone was just nervous about the upcoming night. And one that Duchess, Alice, and Hatter knew to be true. The true theory was the sudden eagerness of Savy to avoid Topper at all costs. He'd obviously said something to seriously piss her off, and now she wasn't even willing to look at him. Which suited him just fine, or he liked to think it did. The silence made the day drag on, and Alice made several attempts to ease the tension. Hell, even Duchess tried once, but to no avail. Savy wouldn't so much as look in the direction of Topper, and Topper was doing nothing but sulking as he tried his damnedest to not look at her. Which he was failing miserably at. When night finally fell Alice stood from her position. “Looks like it's time,” She took a deep breath, and lead the way toward the hill they'd peeked over to look at the cave the previous day.
Hatter was very close behind her, he refused to let the woman out of his sight. The rest followed very close behind him. The mouth of the cave stood vacant as before. “It's still unguarded,” Savy whispered in utter shock. “It's like they're expecting us.” Finally her vibrant green eyes turned to Topper and what he saw there could have stilled the blood. There was fear, and anger, and distrust, and some other raw emotion he didn't know how to name. What he was sure of was that he didn't like her looking at him with those emotions.
“I assure you it's always like this. She never has it guarded because she thinks that first off no one will make it up the mountains to get here. And secondly they won't make it through the labyrinth to get to her. No reason to worry.” Topper said lightly trying to smile, but didn't receive a smile in return. Instead her eyes grew more distrustful.
“How do you know so much about her?”
“It's my job to know.” At least that was true, it was Topper's job to know these things. It had been for a very long time. But that was neither here nor there.
“Sure it is,” Savy said slowly her eyes turning more angry, and her mouth twisting into something like a sneer.
“Savy we don't have time for that. We have to get in. Get Jack and Harper out. And go home. You'll be missed if we're here much longer.” Alice's hushed tone drew Savy's angry eyes away from him and the boy almost sighed in relief. “Let's move. Single file. Quick and quiet.” The orders were said in a tone that left no room for argument, and then Alice was leading them towards the cave. Close behind her was Hatter, as always. Tailing Hatter was Savy. Hot on Savy's heels was Topper. Duchess and Charlie didn't follow as closely but they followed nonetheless. “When we get there we pair off. The buddy system will hopefully keep us all safe if we get separated.”
Once inside the cave Hatter took up firm residence beside Alice, just in case. Yes, he was worried about Savy, but he figured Charlie would look after her. Unfortunately for him Topper took up residence beside the red headed girl leaving Charlie and Duchess to pair off. The cave was dark, so dark you could hardly see your nose before you, but Alice started in what seemed like a good direction, and the rest followed closely behind. Alice lead the way for what seemed like forever in silence. It seemed like years. None knew how far they'd been, or how far they had yet to go. But soon there was a wooshing noise, a loud wooshing noise. So loud that the whole caravan covered their ears to block it out. And when the wooshing noise stopped, and it seemed like the caves had settled once more Alice looked up to find her and Hatter alone. “No! Where are they,” Alice screamed, and Hatter whipped around furiously to try to find their lost comrads.
“I don' see them. We've been spli' up. Oh bloody 'ell,” Hatter groaned loudly grabbing Alice before they too could be split up.
“What will we do Hatter? What will Savy do? She's just a girl.”
“She'll be fine. I promise she'll be fine. She can take care of 'erself. Ya know she can. Let's jus' keep moving, and try ta find them.” He whipped his hat off his head and wiped his sweating brow frantically.
“Right, must keep our heads,” Alice whispered, and they began moving again towards what they thought was the center of the labyrinth. They held onto one another so as not to be split apart once more. And slowly but surely made their way.
“Shit! How in fuck's name did I get fucking stuck with you? I don't even fucking like you,” Savy shouted stomping her feet on the ground and glaring angrily at Topper. He had to admit, in some morbid way he kind of liked her angry. Her green eyes flashed, and her cheeks flushed, and it was really kind of eye opening to see her like that. “Oh if I didn't think you could get me the fuck out of here I'd knock that dumbass smirk right off your stupid ass looking face!” And then she was stomping away, and he sighed.
“Savannah! You can't just run around here half crazed, you have to stay with me,” He ran after her catching easily and then sliding into stride with her.
“Oh yes, I want to run around these fucking caves with the enemy. You know I knew, I just knew you were leading us into some kind of trap. You fucking sack of shit, I knew it! I can't believe I knew it and you charmed your way right out of it with Alice. She's gone soft, she has!” Her arms were flailing wildly, and Topper had to duck to avoid being whacked in the face again.
“For Alfred's sake woman will you please shut up, and stop moving! I can't think while you're on a bloody rampage,” Topper growled grabbing her arms mid flail and pinning them to her side.
“I remember telling you never to fucking touch me again,” She practically spat.
“And I remember you having half a brain, but you're not acting like it whirling around the labyrinth screaming your bloody head off.” Savy resisted the supreme urge to stick her tongue out at him, her green eyes flashing bitterly. “There now, I will let you go once I see that you've calmed down.” A loud sigh protruded from thin pink lips, and Topper had to physically force himself not to grin at her. “Good, now,” he released her arms but grabbed her hand just in case. “We must tread carefully through the labyrinth,” He took a careful step along side her as though to emphasize his point. “For there are tr-” and the floor gave way under them, and both plummeted a good three feet to hard stone.
“The gravity assisted snare mach one,” Savy groaned rubbing her head. “My they are behind our dear Charlie aren't they?”
“This isn't a time to make jokes, you're bleeding,” Topper was suddenly very close, and had a very concerned look on his face as he examined something in her hair that she assumed to be a cut and blood.
“Oh get off it, I'm fine. It's just a little bump, I'll survive.” She brushed him away.
“Look boys, Topper brought us another gift,” A small gleeful voice chimed from overhead, and Savy glared up at a little face peeking out over the edge. It looked like a little girl's face. “We already found the other little Oyster you brought for us Topper, good work. Get them out of there, immediately.” The order was barked and soon two bulky men were in the hole with them and handing them up to two more bulky men.
“Get the fuck off me. Don't lay a fucking finger on me. Leave me the fuck alone.” Savy's grunts and groans could have been heard all through the labyrinth as she struggled against two suits who held her arms. She noticed quickly that Topper wasn't being held at all, and a look of utter disgust crossed her features. She also noticed that Alice and Hatter were being held behind what looked to be a little girl, both bound and gagged.
“Do you know what I'll do with you little one?” The little girl asked putting one tiny finger under Savy's chin.
“Who the fuck are you calling little, mini me?” White teeth snapped at the little finger, and Topper just wanted to tell her to stop with the struggling and insulting, she was only going to make this worse for herself.
“First I'll break you of that spirit, break you of that fire so you can no longer fight off the fear. Then I'll shove you in a little windowless cell with the other Oysters in my collection, and drain you of your fear until you are as hallow as a balloon. And when I'm done with you I won't throw you away like all the others, oh no. I'll lock you in a box, and personally watch you whither to nothingness.” The words twisted around the group like a snake. Alice and Hatter's eyes widened and they both began to struggle, to fight, to do anything to save the little girl they'd all but adopted.
“Fat chance shorty. I got news for you, I can't be fucking broken. But you're welcome to try,” Savy replied cheekily, and promptly received a rather hard blow to the gut for her efforts. Her body ached to bend and cough but she was held up straight, and she kept herself from coughing. She didn't want this sadistic little demon to see her in pain.
“Let the girl go,” A voice spoke up, and everyone's head shot to Topper. Savy quirked a red brow, and the little girl before her only looked curious.
“Excuse me,” the girl asked. Obviously the crazy little bitch found this all serenely amusing. Savannah's eyes were still on him, and they were still disgusted, and he'd do anything to make it stop. His stomach was twisting in sick knots almost making him vomit right there on Aceline's shoes, but he held himself up straight instead of retching. He didn't know what forced him to try to save Savannah, but he just had to do something. He couldn't sit back and watch them hurt her.
“I said let the girl go. Come on Aceline, you have Alice of Legend. You have her mate. You have the queen, and the lunatic knight. Can one girl mean that much to you? She's one little Oyster, just let her go.” He couldn't believe he was pleading for the life of another. He couldn't believe he was practically begging to save Savannah's life. The girl who had called him names. The girl who had hit him. The girl who was looking at him so disgusted, like he was a dead mouse or something. But she had also saved him. She had talked to him. She had even called him friend at one point. And friends didn't let friends perish the way Aceline wanted to kill poor Savannah.
“Have you grown attached to this little Oyster, Topper,” Aceline asked her fingers forcing Savy's whole head to face Topper. Savy tried to pull away, but the little girl had a strong grip and held her in place. “Do you hear that girl, he's pleading for your life. I dare say he likes you.”
“I dare say he should do what he does best, and save his own fucking hide. I'll worry about mine, and everyone else's,” Savy spat jerking her head quickly from the tiny little fingers. “You don't have to pretend anymore,” it came out as almost a whisper but it broke what little resolve to ignore this obsession that Topper had left. He needed her, just like Hatter said he would. He was addicted to the emotions that played so easily across her face. Hatter had been right from the start.
“Let her go Aceline. You said I could have anything I wanted, well I want her. Release her.” Topper's voice was low and guttural and he didn't meet Savy's eyes. Hatter and Alice stared on in wonderment each wondering what exactly had happened to the self centered youth they had spent the past several days with.
“I'm not for fucking sale,” Savy spat, and Topper winced.
“You hear that Topper? She's not for fucking sale,” the little girl mocked gleefully. “Give me a good reason I should give her to you.”
“I … I … I ...” Topper hung his head in defeat. He couldn't think of a good reason. He couldn't think of any reason at all in fact. But he had to do something! Damn it! He couldn't just let Aceline suck the fire right out of that girl.
“There now Topper. I'll give her to you when she's hollow. Then you can play with her as you like, and she won't be able to even tell you no. How does that sound?” The girl pat her little hand on Topper's hung head, but his head only snapped up and anger shone clearly in his eyes. In seconds he had one of the suits held at gun point. No one quite knew how it happened, but it was clear then to Alice that the boy had as much skill at fighting as Hatter had. And suddenly she was very glad he was coming over to their side.
“I'll kill him Aceline. You know I'll do it. Let the girl go or he dies.” Topper growled. There was a giggle that emitted from the little girl and spread through the cave. The very sound of it sent a shiver up the spines of the prisoners.
“Not if I kill her first Topper. You'd rob me of my fun, surely. But I will not have you going around and demanding things that are not yours.” With a nod of the head there was knife held to Savy's neck. It was so close she could feel the blade biting into her flesh ever so slightly, and blood trickling slowly down her neck. She refused to make a noise in surprise or fear, instead her eyes grew defiant.
“Do it. Just fucking kill me. You think I'm scared? Ha,” Savy had the nerve to laugh, and it made the knife dig in deeper. Had Alice been able to talk she would have reprimanded Savy for being so reckless. Always so reckless that little girl. But all she managed was a high pitched scream and a sad set of blue eyes. Hatter made an attempt to give her a comforting look, but it did nothing to quiet her.
“I … I …” Topper stuttered, and then dropped the gun his head hung again. He couldn't just let her die. Maybe he was being as supremely selfish as he always had been, but he couldn't let them take that fire from her. He'd have to think of a way to save her. Have to think of some way to keep her alive.
“I thought so. Suits, take our prisoners off to the cells. Our two hatted friends can be put in with the other young man. And the two Oysters can go in with the other Oyster.” Aceline ordered, and the suits took hold of Topper. The boy didn't even struggle. What point was there? He'd failed at what he wanted to do. The thing he'd wanted most, probably more than anything he'd ever wanted in his life, was Savannah's freedom, and he'd failed miserably.
“I'm sorry Savannah,” the boy mumbled as they were drug through the labyrinth to it's center.
“Don't feel fucking sorry for yourself you idiot. We'll get out of this.” Her words would have sounded harsh to anyone else, but to Topper he got the feeling that he was on the mend with the girl. She would forgive him soon, maybe not today, probably not tomorrow, but soon. And there was hope in her voice. She really believed they'd make it out of this alive. And that hope and faith spread through him like a rare incurable disease. Maybe they would make it out of this alive. It would take some effort, but if the four of them stuck together they could do it.
“Gag them, I'm sick of their idle chatter,” Aceline frowned. Savy twisted her head every which way to try to escape the gag, but they still managed to catch her. Topper didn't fight at all. “Gone soft on me Topper. This is what you get for going soft. I am glad you finally decided though, I was getting sick of you continuing to play on both sides of the looking glass.” The girl tsked as she merrily skipped in front of them leading the way to the center of the labyrinth. Savy lost track of time, or place. All she could hear was the sound of the little girl skipping and her giggles. All she could feel was the pain still very real and raw in the pit of her stomach where that fucker had punched her. Topper lost track too, but his thoughts were elsewhere. His eyes continual shifted to try to see Savannah more clearly out of the corner of his eye. His stomach churned with failure, and disgust. He was so disgusted with himself. He shouldn't have lead them right into Aceline's trap. He should have known better than the think once Savannah was removed he'd feel better. Alice could only think of what would become of them now. She's heard the little girl say she wanted to harvest fear, but she didn't know what for, and she didn't know how. Would they be tortured like she had been by Dee and Dum? And who was this other Oyster? Hatter too, felt the very real very raw ache of failure in the pit of his stomach. He had failed his Alice. He had failed Savy. Now the makeshift family he had been building was completely down the tubes. But he had to think, and fast. He had to think of a way for them to escape. The clicking of the little girl's shoes continued as she skipped. And the giggling began to feel manic in the minds of the prisoners. Insanity seemed to be their only option.
Chapter Title: Playing Both Sides of the Looking Glass
Author: greeneyes0911
Pairing: Alice/Hatter, Jack/Duchess
Characters: Charlie, Hatter, Jack, Duchess, Alice, and two OCs (Savy & Topper)
Rating: r-ish (for language & later evil torture)
Length: 7,300+
Warnings/Spoilers: The entire miniseries
A/N: Oh I do love that you love it! Thanks for all the lovely comments! This is going to being to slowly crossover with 10th k, but only character wise and vague mentions of the other nine kingdoms. So a summary of 10th k will serve you enough for the reading of this.
Disclaimer: I don't own Alice, Hatter, March Hare, any of 'em....but damn would I be rich if I did!
Our heroes find themselves at the mouth of a cave. A cave
that leads to a labyrinth. A labyrinth that leads to...
who knows.
Topper never in his life asked for permission. To be honest he had just never felt the need. He had been raised, as Hatter and Wolf had, to con people out of what he wanted and to forget how it effected others. It had always been about survival for them, primarily survival of themselves. Things had changed. Somewhere along the line Hatter's primary concern had shifted from his own happiness and survival to the happiness of Alice. That was something Topper didn't really understand. He also didn't understand why he suddenly felt like he needed permission just to speak to Savannah. He felt like somehow she was better than him. Above him. It just didn't make any sense. There was no reason for him to feel that way. Sure, she'd saved him, but he'd saved her as well. He thought perhaps it was the lack of motive that bothered him. He had saved her because if he didn't someone else would, and that someone else would be reckless. And that recklessness would lead to someone getting hurt and then this mission would be a complete wash. She, on the other hand, had no reason to save his life. Yes, he was the only one who knew where the underground palace was, but that shouldn't matter to her because she'd like to go home anyways. So surely his subsequent death would ruin the journey and she'd get her wish. Then why did she save him? He thought on it for a long while, all day in fact, and could come up with no decent answer aside from the fact that she did it simply because she could, and because it had been the right thing to do. Now that was a foreign concept to him, the right thing to do. He was familiar with the right thing for me, the thing that would best help me, but never the right thing morally. His mind was sufficiently preoccupied with these thoughts as they came upon a hill that looked down into a small valley. Said small valley played host to a large opening in the mountain. Said large opening hid the underground labyrinth that lead to Aceline Heart's lair.
“Topper,” Alice said in irritation, and he shook himself mentally just realizing she'd been calling him for the past several minutes. “Is this the place?”
Topper looked down at the opening and practically gulped, this was it. They'd know soon enough about him. They'd know the truth. And he could already see the disgust in those vibrant green eyes as they turned on him in realization. She would hate him when she found out. She'd be disgusted with him when she realized. He didn't know if he could bear that. “Yeah this is it.”
“Well, what are we waiting for,” Charlie asked rising from his crouched position and readying himself to run head long into the dangers of the cave as if he feared nothing.
“No,” Topper stopped the old man with a hand on his arm, and even Charlie looked confused. “We should get some weapons first. I know where the cave that stores the weaponry for that place is. They don't guard it because they assume no one will make it this far. We should go there.”
“Weapons,” Savy said in a tone that sounded something like nervousness. She'd always preferred fighting with her hands. She'd never really used weapons, and she'd been in a number of fights over the years. She did suppose though that there was a first time for everything, and that maybe they would be necessary this time. If it was necessary she had no choice, not really. Topper only nodded, and started leading them in the direction of what she assumed was a cave that held weapons. The very thought of it set Savy's nerves on edge. What she didn't know, was that she wasn't the only one who was weary of this form of combat. Alice as well was wearing on the inside of her cheek as she thought of the need for weapons. She knew of Wonderland's dependence on artillery, but that didn't mean she liked it. In fact quite the opposite, the only time she'd ever used a gun was here in Wonderland, and the cold metal had sent her into jitters. They followed anyways, because in truth what choice did they have? There was a small mouth of a cave in the mountains, but was completely unguarded. The lack of guards had the whole group worried, well not Topper, but everyone else.
“I have a weapon. I am a knight, I always have my sword with me. I will stand guard to be sure you are safe.” Charlie's voice didn't waver as he took up his post on the outside of the cave and turn a sharp eye to the outside of the cave. Topper rolled his eyes, but everyone else just nodded. A small shudder ran up Alice's spine as she faced walls covered in guns, swords, daggers, and any other kind of weapon imaginable. She really didn't like the idea of pointing a gun at someone, much less having someone else pointing a gun at her. But she knew that if a gun was pointed at one of her companions then she'd have to do something to help, and maybe a gun was her only option.
“Hatter,” Topper said holding out a small pistol. Hatter nodded and tucked it into the back of his pants while Topper took another and followed suit. “And for the ladies,” he pulled down three small hand guns that could easily be tucked into a boot.
“No thanks,” Savy said backing away from the extended hand with the cool metal gun. “I'll take my chances with a blade before I'll touch one of those.” Topper quirked a dark brow, but didn't push the subject. Neither did Hatter nor Alice, they both knew she had a severe aversion to weapons especially guns. They had never found out why, but they knew it as a fact. And they'd never dream of pushing something like that on Savy when she was so severally uncomfortable with it. Duchess however, took one of the small guns and tucked it into her boot. Alice followed along, tucking a gun into her own boot. Meanwhile Savy drifted over to the swords, and pulled down one of the lighter blades before buckling the shelf around her waist.
“Can you even use that,” Topper asked with a frown.
“No, but ya're goin' to teach 'er,” a wide grin spread over Hatter's face at the distressed look Topper gave him. Sparing required close combat, and cooperation, and... and... and... Topper just didn't like it. He didn't have to have a reason. Other than how attractive a woman capable with a sword could be. Wait, no he didn't just think that. He didn't at all.
“Right, that'll do since none of us can, and I doubt Charlie would make for a good teacher.” Alice nodded along not noticing the wicked grin on her mate's face. She had gotten a little too accustomed to the way he always looked like he was up to something, so it really didn't phase her anymore.
An hour later found them setting up camp on the hill above the valley. Their sleeping bags had been left behind when they had been chased by the multi headed beast. That being the case everyone was trying to prepare themselves for a long night of sleeping on the ground. “Can't we just storm the place now,” Savy asked twirling her newly acquired sword around as she paced around the place where Charlie and Hatter were starting the fire.
“No, tomorrow night,” Topper said a little too quickly, causing everyone to look at him suspiciously.
“Why,” Alice asked quirking a dark brow. She had grown a little suspicious over the time of their journey. Yes, she still did think that Topper had a good side. She still did think that given the right amount of time with them he could be a good man, just like Hatter. It was just that now she wasn't sure how bad he was. Hatter hadn't been as deep into the bad as it seemed Topper was. And Alice didn't know if they could pull this boy back in time. And what if they couldn't? What would happen to all of them? How guilty would Topper feel?
“We need to rest. I need to teach Savannah how to sword fight. We need to be prepared.” Those all seemed like logical reasons. Topper liked logical reasons. Especially given the fact that these weren't exactly his reasons why. The more logical they seemed the better chance he'd have of them believing him.
“Savy,” Savy corrected with a slight frown, but Topper ignored her. Instead he stared intently at Alice almost willing her to believe his lie.
“Right, that sounds about right,” Alice confirmed finally with a nod. Hatter wasn't convinced, and it showed in his puppy brown eyes. Ever since really learning to feel he hadn't been able to hide his emotions. Especially strong ones like distrust.
“Tha' sounds awfully convenien'. Like its on yar schedule,” Hatter added walking up to Alice and wrapping his arms around her torso from behind. He eyed Topper suspiciously over the dark haired girl's shoulder.
“Don't be ridiculous Hatter. I just want to ensure everyone's safety, and the best way to do that is if we're not tired, and Savannah is properly trained with that sword. You don't want anything to happen to them do you?” The question was posed with an arched brow and a straight face. But if Hatter didn't know any better, which he did, he would have sworn he saw a smirk peeking through that straight face. He knew Topper entirely too well, or he had known him too well, and he had to admit that even for him this seemed like a good lie.
“Savy,” Savy corrected for the second time, and was ignored once more.
“Don' ya even suggest tha',” Hatter growled out his arms tightening around Alice's waist almost painfully. Alice squeaked a little, but didn't say anything. She just stood still while Hatter glared at Topper.
“Relax old Hat. Nothing will happen to your girlfriend so long as we keep our head about things. And that's all I'm trying to do, is keep my head about this. So just relax. I know you don't want anything to happen to Alice, Savannah, or the others. So just calm down,” Topper held up his hands in some form of surrender, but Hatter wasn't really sure he believed it. Yes, he'd seen in Topper's eyes the same strange obsession he'd had with Alice when she'd first trotted (minus the trotting of course) into his teashop. But was that fascination enough for Topper to want to keep her safe? And to what lengths would Topper go to keep his obsession alive? He didn't want to think about it.
“Savy,” the red head corrected again this time from right behind Topper, and with a serious growl to her voice. Alice nodded, and turned to pull Hatter with her to the edge of the fire leaving Topper to whirl around and meet the annoyed eyes of one dangerous little red head with a very pointy sword in her hand.
“Savannah, put the sword down.”
“The. Name. is. Savy.” Each word was punctuated with a step until the blade was held to his throat, and Topper gulped audibly. “Call me Savannah one more time and see what happens.”
“You win.” Hands were raised in surrender, and the sword was lowered but only far enough so that his neck was no longer in danger. “Are you sure you don't already know how to use a sword?”
“I know how to use a long pointy object as well as any street rat, but a sword is a horse of a different color,” she said her eyes examining the sword as though looking for flaws, or some magical instructions on the blade. “I never planned to ever be in a position where I'd have to sword fight my way out, and I don't think I ever will be again.”
“Shall we begin then?”
“If you think you can wrestle Charlie's sword from him.” There was a shrug of small shoulders, and she turned on her heel to find an open space. Hatter and Alice found a seat to watch, and Alice looked more than a little pleased with the girl before her. Alice had taught Savy most of what she knew, and watching her best someone who was experienced in sword play would be amusing.
“I would be more than willing to give up my sword for a few hours so that this Harbinger can teach his lady how to protect herself.” Charlie said offering Topper his sword, and bowing his head to Savy. Savy in turn curtsied goofily, and grinned widely.
“But I thought ladies oughtn't get their hands dirty,” Duchess said from the residence she'd taken up behind Hatter and Alice. She was standing there arms crossed and a slightly amused expression on her face. It was needless to say that she was looking forward to watching the prideful mister Topper be bested by the slight Savy. Duchess had taken a shine to the girl recently, especially as she watched the girl stand her ground against Topper. It seemed like she would not be charmed, nor backed into a corner by the boy. And any woman could respect that.
“Well if the Harbinger is incapable of keeping her safe,” Charlie shot Topper a warning look. “Then she must of course know how to protect herself.”
“By which he means tha' Topper best protec' Savy or there will be the devil ta pay,” Hatter grinned widely as Charlie nodded and took the seat beside him.
“Keep that in mind harbinger. It is your job to protect your lady.” There was a certain gravity to Charlie's words that Topper felt right down to his toes. And for a brief second he really did feel it was his job to protect Savannah. It was his job to be sure that Aceline wouldn't hurt her. His job to be sure that the beasts of the forest wouldn't eat her. His job to be sure that she would never feel pain again. His job to bring a smile to her face. His job. And then he mentally shook himself, and reminded himself that this was just an obsession. And that Aceline could bloody well have this scrawny annoying little girl if she wanted the girl. He wouldn't risk his head to save her's. There was a loud clanking noise and he looked up abruptly to find Savy standing very close, so close he could smell the forest in her hair, and her sword against his.
“Well? Is this a lesson or a tea session? Come on,” the smirk was back on her thin pink mouth, and Topper found himself wondering how she could be so highly amused in a time like this. She spun out of the way, causing her hair to flutter behind her and the smell of the forest to float even further into his head. This was such a bad idea.
“Don't turn your back to an opponent,” Topper chided and when she spun back his sword was to her throat. “Tsk, tsk, silly girl how will you get yourself out of this one?”
“Play nice Topper, we'd like to keep our Savy in one piece,” Alice called breaking the moment, and Topper rolled his eyes before lowering his sword.
“Yes, take care not to wound her,” Duchess added much to the surprise of everyone listening but no one's eyes strayed from the dueling pair to look at her in confusion.
“Then she ought to take care to pay attention,” Topper ground out as she was soon at him again. There were several loud clanks before they found themselves in a stand still each putting all the strength they could into the blade in their hand trying to shove the other to the ground. Savy growled at the effort, the man-child was stronger than she was there was no doubt, but she wouldn't be seen giving up. Finally brute strength won out, and Savy fumbled backward onto her butt. “Again,” Topper said pulling her to her feet. More loud clanky, more jabs and blocks, more fumbles and stand stills. The crowd became restless and moved on to do other things.
Hatter, and Alice stood several feet away from the camp still listening to the clanking noise as he taught her how to aim a gun. “Pull it out,” He instructed, and Alice sighed a little. “Come on now ya can' be scared of it Alice. Ya 'ave ta own it. Tha doesn' make ya do anythin', ya make tha gun do stuff.”
Alice nodded with another sigh before pulling the gun from her boot. “You know how I feel about these things.”
“I do, but this time it's necessary. Ya 'ave ta protec' yarself if I can't.” He was behind her now, whispering in her ear, and kissing her cheek. “I can't afford ta lose ya.” It was so light she barely heard it, and it resounded heavily of terror. His warm breath on her ear sent a shiver up her spine, and not the bad kind in the least. “Don't do tha' luv, ya'll ge' me all distracted, and we 'ave no assured privacy.”
Alice chuckled lightly. “You never get enough do you?”
“Never ever. Come on now luv, stop talkin' dirty and let's get down ta business.”
“Now who's talking dirty?”
“I mean it,” Hatter groaned a little making Alice smirk. “Please stop.”
“Fine, fine. I'm done. No more Naughty Alice until we're home safe.”
“That's me girl. Now 'old tha gun up so tha' yar arm is horizontal ta tha ground.” Alice did as told, her hand shaking a little. “Take a deep breath Kettle, I'm 'ere with ya. No reason ta be all anxious.” He kissed her cheek again, and to Alice's surprise the feeling sent a calming wave through her causing her hand to stand still. “Tha'a girl.”
“Is that it?”
“No, course no'. Line it up with wha' yar aimin' at. Let's go with tha' tree for now. Close one eye.” Alice chuckled and turned to look at him like he was crazy. “Nah, I'm serious Love, jus' do it.”
“Well, which one,” She asked with a smirk.
“Stop playin' games Alice,” Hatter chided playfully.
“Alright, one eye closed. Now what?”
“Line it up, and fire.” Alice lined it up, but didn't pull the trigger. She didn't need to know how to pull a trigger, she just needed to know how to aim so if it became necessary that she did have to fire the blasted thing she could hit her target. She lowered her arm, and found herself immediately wrapped in Hatter's warm arms. They both turned to watch the dueling pair as the clanks got louder, and curse words started being attached to each clank.
“I'm still not sure that we can trust him. I mean he may have some good in him. He did save Savy, but how long before he puts himself before her?” Hatter sighed into her ear, and Alice shuddered a little.
“He likes 'er. I didn' wan' ta tell ya, cause I don' wan' ya gettin' yar hopes up that he'll change. To be honest I dunno that that one can change. Bu' he does have a thing for our lil' Savy.” Hatter's words were a whisper, they could have easily been mistaken for the wind if you weren't as close as Alice.
“Then he'll change.” Alice nodded firmly, but Hatter grumbled a little in disagreement. “He will Hatter. You changed, he'll change. We just have to give him a chance to prove himself. He'll change.”
“I hope ya're righ'. For his sake and hers. I 'ave this sinkin' feelin' we won't be able to keep our eye on 'er for much longer.” He didn't like that sinking feeling. It was making him exceedingly nervous. And the fact that Savy's fate may soon be in Topper's hands made him even more nervous. They continued to watch the two from a distance, at least here they knew Topper wouldn't go as easy on her just because they were watching.
“Come on Savannah, you have to mean it,” Topper growled at her as she was pushed to the ground again. “You can't be scared you're going to hurt me. You have to mean it!”
“I'm not scared,” another loud clank protruded the air as she went for his ribs and he blocked her, “I've just never fucking had to sword fight in my life!”
“It's basic fighting skills. You should have basic fighting skills. You've been in how many fist fights in your life?” He was growling from the effort. Topper wouldn't tell her but the girl was giving him a real run for his money. Just like Savy wouldn't admit out loud that the reason she kept losing was because he was actually physically stronger than her.
“Thousands, but that's different.” There were at a standstill again and Topper was glaring down on her.
“Why,” Topper's mouth asked of it's own volition. It really needed to stop doing that. Throughout this whole thing he'd been turning the scene from the cave over and over in his head, and he couldn't come up with a good reason as to why she helped him. It was really starting to get to him.
“Why what? Why is it different? Well I don't usually have this big hunking piece o-”
“No, why did you save me this morning,” He asked as he finally was able to shove her back enough so he could unlock his sword from her's. This time she didn't fall to the ground she just stumbled backwards and came at him once more.
“What? No thanks Savy for saving my sorry fucking hide? Just why? You are a weird one Topper.” She ground out blocking a jab at her right leg.
“Yes, just why. Now answer the bloody question!”
“No need to fucking yell at me you ass!” She finally landed a blow to his side and he winced before stilling, and putting up a hand to call for a break. “I saved you because you needed saving. I helped you because you needed helping. There was no other reason. You are one of a group now, a companion to us, like it or not. And so your sorry fucking hide means as much to me as mine does.” Her words came out breathlessly as she bent to catch her breath. Several loose strands of hair fell into her face, but she didn't seem to notice. “It's sort of like friends. You'd stick your neck out for a friend wouldn't you?” She looked up to find a queer expression on his face as if he'd never heard of that before. “Right, should have known. Well maybe I thought if you fucking saw what it was to be companions, and to mean as much to someone else as they mean to themselves that you'd fucking get it. That something like a conscious would sneak into that conniving fucking brain of yours. But I guess I was fucking wrong. Thanks for that. I've just lost all faith in fucking humanity.” With that she returned her sword to its sheath and walked away from him. Topper watched her retreating back as she made her way to the fire and settled in beside Hatter, his stomach sank a little and he didn't bother to wonder why. It was pointless to keep even acknowledging these feelings, it would all be over very soon, and to be honest he couldn't wait anymore. He just wanted it to be over so that he could move on with his life, and forget this silly little girl that fell into his life.
Soon Charlie was ushering everyone to bed as he vowed to take the first watch. Topper was scheduled for the second, and Hatter for the third. They wouldn't be taking any chances in the little time they had left to spend out in these woods. Topper didn't blame them really, these mountains were more dangerous than even he had thought originally. Had he known that he probably wouldn't have signed up for this mission at all. He was a right coward when it came down to the risking of his own neck. Hell, he'd even admit to it. And if he was willing to admit to it then it surely must be the Alfred's honest truth. How much of a coward he was was neither there nor here. What mattered was that little slip of a red head as getting into his head, and making him want to not be a coward anymore. And he just plum didn't have the courage to change.
The following day passed in relative silence. Everyone, including the slightly insane Charlie, seemed to notice a change in the atmosphere. There were several theories as to why the sudden change. Alright, that's a lie there were two theories. One that Savy, Topper, and Charlie held which was that everyone was just nervous about the upcoming night. And one that Duchess, Alice, and Hatter knew to be true. The true theory was the sudden eagerness of Savy to avoid Topper at all costs. He'd obviously said something to seriously piss her off, and now she wasn't even willing to look at him. Which suited him just fine, or he liked to think it did. The silence made the day drag on, and Alice made several attempts to ease the tension. Hell, even Duchess tried once, but to no avail. Savy wouldn't so much as look in the direction of Topper, and Topper was doing nothing but sulking as he tried his damnedest to not look at her. Which he was failing miserably at. When night finally fell Alice stood from her position. “Looks like it's time,” She took a deep breath, and lead the way toward the hill they'd peeked over to look at the cave the previous day.
Hatter was very close behind her, he refused to let the woman out of his sight. The rest followed very close behind him. The mouth of the cave stood vacant as before. “It's still unguarded,” Savy whispered in utter shock. “It's like they're expecting us.” Finally her vibrant green eyes turned to Topper and what he saw there could have stilled the blood. There was fear, and anger, and distrust, and some other raw emotion he didn't know how to name. What he was sure of was that he didn't like her looking at him with those emotions.
“I assure you it's always like this. She never has it guarded because she thinks that first off no one will make it up the mountains to get here. And secondly they won't make it through the labyrinth to get to her. No reason to worry.” Topper said lightly trying to smile, but didn't receive a smile in return. Instead her eyes grew more distrustful.
“How do you know so much about her?”
“It's my job to know.” At least that was true, it was Topper's job to know these things. It had been for a very long time. But that was neither here nor there.
“Sure it is,” Savy said slowly her eyes turning more angry, and her mouth twisting into something like a sneer.
“Savy we don't have time for that. We have to get in. Get Jack and Harper out. And go home. You'll be missed if we're here much longer.” Alice's hushed tone drew Savy's angry eyes away from him and the boy almost sighed in relief. “Let's move. Single file. Quick and quiet.” The orders were said in a tone that left no room for argument, and then Alice was leading them towards the cave. Close behind her was Hatter, as always. Tailing Hatter was Savy. Hot on Savy's heels was Topper. Duchess and Charlie didn't follow as closely but they followed nonetheless. “When we get there we pair off. The buddy system will hopefully keep us all safe if we get separated.”
Once inside the cave Hatter took up firm residence beside Alice, just in case. Yes, he was worried about Savy, but he figured Charlie would look after her. Unfortunately for him Topper took up residence beside the red headed girl leaving Charlie and Duchess to pair off. The cave was dark, so dark you could hardly see your nose before you, but Alice started in what seemed like a good direction, and the rest followed closely behind. Alice lead the way for what seemed like forever in silence. It seemed like years. None knew how far they'd been, or how far they had yet to go. But soon there was a wooshing noise, a loud wooshing noise. So loud that the whole caravan covered their ears to block it out. And when the wooshing noise stopped, and it seemed like the caves had settled once more Alice looked up to find her and Hatter alone. “No! Where are they,” Alice screamed, and Hatter whipped around furiously to try to find their lost comrads.
“I don' see them. We've been spli' up. Oh bloody 'ell,” Hatter groaned loudly grabbing Alice before they too could be split up.
“What will we do Hatter? What will Savy do? She's just a girl.”
“She'll be fine. I promise she'll be fine. She can take care of 'erself. Ya know she can. Let's jus' keep moving, and try ta find them.” He whipped his hat off his head and wiped his sweating brow frantically.
“Right, must keep our heads,” Alice whispered, and they began moving again towards what they thought was the center of the labyrinth. They held onto one another so as not to be split apart once more. And slowly but surely made their way.
“Shit! How in fuck's name did I get fucking stuck with you? I don't even fucking like you,” Savy shouted stomping her feet on the ground and glaring angrily at Topper. He had to admit, in some morbid way he kind of liked her angry. Her green eyes flashed, and her cheeks flushed, and it was really kind of eye opening to see her like that. “Oh if I didn't think you could get me the fuck out of here I'd knock that dumbass smirk right off your stupid ass looking face!” And then she was stomping away, and he sighed.
“Savannah! You can't just run around here half crazed, you have to stay with me,” He ran after her catching easily and then sliding into stride with her.
“Oh yes, I want to run around these fucking caves with the enemy. You know I knew, I just knew you were leading us into some kind of trap. You fucking sack of shit, I knew it! I can't believe I knew it and you charmed your way right out of it with Alice. She's gone soft, she has!” Her arms were flailing wildly, and Topper had to duck to avoid being whacked in the face again.
“For Alfred's sake woman will you please shut up, and stop moving! I can't think while you're on a bloody rampage,” Topper growled grabbing her arms mid flail and pinning them to her side.
“I remember telling you never to fucking touch me again,” She practically spat.
“And I remember you having half a brain, but you're not acting like it whirling around the labyrinth screaming your bloody head off.” Savy resisted the supreme urge to stick her tongue out at him, her green eyes flashing bitterly. “There now, I will let you go once I see that you've calmed down.” A loud sigh protruded from thin pink lips, and Topper had to physically force himself not to grin at her. “Good, now,” he released her arms but grabbed her hand just in case. “We must tread carefully through the labyrinth,” He took a careful step along side her as though to emphasize his point. “For there are tr-” and the floor gave way under them, and both plummeted a good three feet to hard stone.
“The gravity assisted snare mach one,” Savy groaned rubbing her head. “My they are behind our dear Charlie aren't they?”
“This isn't a time to make jokes, you're bleeding,” Topper was suddenly very close, and had a very concerned look on his face as he examined something in her hair that she assumed to be a cut and blood.
“Oh get off it, I'm fine. It's just a little bump, I'll survive.” She brushed him away.
“Look boys, Topper brought us another gift,” A small gleeful voice chimed from overhead, and Savy glared up at a little face peeking out over the edge. It looked like a little girl's face. “We already found the other little Oyster you brought for us Topper, good work. Get them out of there, immediately.” The order was barked and soon two bulky men were in the hole with them and handing them up to two more bulky men.
“Get the fuck off me. Don't lay a fucking finger on me. Leave me the fuck alone.” Savy's grunts and groans could have been heard all through the labyrinth as she struggled against two suits who held her arms. She noticed quickly that Topper wasn't being held at all, and a look of utter disgust crossed her features. She also noticed that Alice and Hatter were being held behind what looked to be a little girl, both bound and gagged.
“Do you know what I'll do with you little one?” The little girl asked putting one tiny finger under Savy's chin.
“Who the fuck are you calling little, mini me?” White teeth snapped at the little finger, and Topper just wanted to tell her to stop with the struggling and insulting, she was only going to make this worse for herself.
“First I'll break you of that spirit, break you of that fire so you can no longer fight off the fear. Then I'll shove you in a little windowless cell with the other Oysters in my collection, and drain you of your fear until you are as hallow as a balloon. And when I'm done with you I won't throw you away like all the others, oh no. I'll lock you in a box, and personally watch you whither to nothingness.” The words twisted around the group like a snake. Alice and Hatter's eyes widened and they both began to struggle, to fight, to do anything to save the little girl they'd all but adopted.
“Fat chance shorty. I got news for you, I can't be fucking broken. But you're welcome to try,” Savy replied cheekily, and promptly received a rather hard blow to the gut for her efforts. Her body ached to bend and cough but she was held up straight, and she kept herself from coughing. She didn't want this sadistic little demon to see her in pain.
“Let the girl go,” A voice spoke up, and everyone's head shot to Topper. Savy quirked a red brow, and the little girl before her only looked curious.
“Excuse me,” the girl asked. Obviously the crazy little bitch found this all serenely amusing. Savannah's eyes were still on him, and they were still disgusted, and he'd do anything to make it stop. His stomach was twisting in sick knots almost making him vomit right there on Aceline's shoes, but he held himself up straight instead of retching. He didn't know what forced him to try to save Savannah, but he just had to do something. He couldn't sit back and watch them hurt her.
“I said let the girl go. Come on Aceline, you have Alice of Legend. You have her mate. You have the queen, and the lunatic knight. Can one girl mean that much to you? She's one little Oyster, just let her go.” He couldn't believe he was pleading for the life of another. He couldn't believe he was practically begging to save Savannah's life. The girl who had called him names. The girl who had hit him. The girl who was looking at him so disgusted, like he was a dead mouse or something. But she had also saved him. She had talked to him. She had even called him friend at one point. And friends didn't let friends perish the way Aceline wanted to kill poor Savannah.
“Have you grown attached to this little Oyster, Topper,” Aceline asked her fingers forcing Savy's whole head to face Topper. Savy tried to pull away, but the little girl had a strong grip and held her in place. “Do you hear that girl, he's pleading for your life. I dare say he likes you.”
“I dare say he should do what he does best, and save his own fucking hide. I'll worry about mine, and everyone else's,” Savy spat jerking her head quickly from the tiny little fingers. “You don't have to pretend anymore,” it came out as almost a whisper but it broke what little resolve to ignore this obsession that Topper had left. He needed her, just like Hatter said he would. He was addicted to the emotions that played so easily across her face. Hatter had been right from the start.
“Let her go Aceline. You said I could have anything I wanted, well I want her. Release her.” Topper's voice was low and guttural and he didn't meet Savy's eyes. Hatter and Alice stared on in wonderment each wondering what exactly had happened to the self centered youth they had spent the past several days with.
“I'm not for fucking sale,” Savy spat, and Topper winced.
“You hear that Topper? She's not for fucking sale,” the little girl mocked gleefully. “Give me a good reason I should give her to you.”
“I … I … I ...” Topper hung his head in defeat. He couldn't think of a good reason. He couldn't think of any reason at all in fact. But he had to do something! Damn it! He couldn't just let Aceline suck the fire right out of that girl.
“There now Topper. I'll give her to you when she's hollow. Then you can play with her as you like, and she won't be able to even tell you no. How does that sound?” The girl pat her little hand on Topper's hung head, but his head only snapped up and anger shone clearly in his eyes. In seconds he had one of the suits held at gun point. No one quite knew how it happened, but it was clear then to Alice that the boy had as much skill at fighting as Hatter had. And suddenly she was very glad he was coming over to their side.
“I'll kill him Aceline. You know I'll do it. Let the girl go or he dies.” Topper growled. There was a giggle that emitted from the little girl and spread through the cave. The very sound of it sent a shiver up the spines of the prisoners.
“Not if I kill her first Topper. You'd rob me of my fun, surely. But I will not have you going around and demanding things that are not yours.” With a nod of the head there was knife held to Savy's neck. It was so close she could feel the blade biting into her flesh ever so slightly, and blood trickling slowly down her neck. She refused to make a noise in surprise or fear, instead her eyes grew defiant.
“Do it. Just fucking kill me. You think I'm scared? Ha,” Savy had the nerve to laugh, and it made the knife dig in deeper. Had Alice been able to talk she would have reprimanded Savy for being so reckless. Always so reckless that little girl. But all she managed was a high pitched scream and a sad set of blue eyes. Hatter made an attempt to give her a comforting look, but it did nothing to quiet her.
“I … I …” Topper stuttered, and then dropped the gun his head hung again. He couldn't just let her die. Maybe he was being as supremely selfish as he always had been, but he couldn't let them take that fire from her. He'd have to think of a way to save her. Have to think of some way to keep her alive.
“I thought so. Suits, take our prisoners off to the cells. Our two hatted friends can be put in with the other young man. And the two Oysters can go in with the other Oyster.” Aceline ordered, and the suits took hold of Topper. The boy didn't even struggle. What point was there? He'd failed at what he wanted to do. The thing he'd wanted most, probably more than anything he'd ever wanted in his life, was Savannah's freedom, and he'd failed miserably.
“I'm sorry Savannah,” the boy mumbled as they were drug through the labyrinth to it's center.
“Don't feel fucking sorry for yourself you idiot. We'll get out of this.” Her words would have sounded harsh to anyone else, but to Topper he got the feeling that he was on the mend with the girl. She would forgive him soon, maybe not today, probably not tomorrow, but soon. And there was hope in her voice. She really believed they'd make it out of this alive. And that hope and faith spread through him like a rare incurable disease. Maybe they would make it out of this alive. It would take some effort, but if the four of them stuck together they could do it.
“Gag them, I'm sick of their idle chatter,” Aceline frowned. Savy twisted her head every which way to try to escape the gag, but they still managed to catch her. Topper didn't fight at all. “Gone soft on me Topper. This is what you get for going soft. I am glad you finally decided though, I was getting sick of you continuing to play on both sides of the looking glass.” The girl tsked as she merrily skipped in front of them leading the way to the center of the labyrinth. Savy lost track of time, or place. All she could hear was the sound of the little girl skipping and her giggles. All she could feel was the pain still very real and raw in the pit of her stomach where that fucker had punched her. Topper lost track too, but his thoughts were elsewhere. His eyes continual shifted to try to see Savannah more clearly out of the corner of his eye. His stomach churned with failure, and disgust. He was so disgusted with himself. He shouldn't have lead them right into Aceline's trap. He should have known better than the think once Savannah was removed he'd feel better. Alice could only think of what would become of them now. She's heard the little girl say she wanted to harvest fear, but she didn't know what for, and she didn't know how. Would they be tortured like she had been by Dee and Dum? And who was this other Oyster? Hatter too, felt the very real very raw ache of failure in the pit of his stomach. He had failed his Alice. He had failed Savy. Now the makeshift family he had been building was completely down the tubes. But he had to think, and fast. He had to think of a way for them to escape. The clicking of the little girl's shoes continued as she skipped. And the giggling began to feel manic in the minds of the prisoners. Insanity seemed to be their only option.